Human–robot collaboration for on-site construction

The rapid development of robotic technology makes transforming from manual activities to human–robot collaboration (HRC) possible in construction. An HRC system can improve construction productivity and safety by matching robot intelligence with human skills. However, research exploring the status, challenges, and emerging research trends of HRC in the construction domain is lacking. Aiming to bridge the knowledge gap, a systematic review integrating quantitative and critical analysis is conducted using 110 relevant articles. Specifically, HRC studies are quantitatively analyzed from the following perspectives: robot types, construction activities, and interaction roles. Moreover, three significant HRC research themes are identified based on the critical review: adaptive robot programming, human–robot interaction interface, and safety issues. Finally, future research trends are introduced to inspire more discussions. This review provides new insights into HRC and supports the future research and development of HRC in the construction industry.