Can robots replace human beings? —Assessment on the developmental potential of construction robot

Construction robots are a powerful means of addressing labor shortages and productivity inefficiencies. Studies discussed the application of construction robots on the level of economic and technical feasibility. However, the substitution potential of different construction robots has not been specifically explored in the context of the current situation of construction machine substitution. Task competence is the main reason for “machine substitution.” Thus, this research focuses on task competence attributes and builds an analytical framework for discussing human–task–machine in the construction field based on the basic framework of task-technology fit theory. Based on this analytical framework, this research sorts out the task processing logic of construction workers and robots. Moreover, this research establishes a measure of the substitution potential of “machine substitution” in the construction field. Taking the construction market of Mainland China as an example, this research analyzed the development potential of different construction robots, considering the current situation of “machine substitution” in the construction field. Results show that there is a shortage of construction robot types at present. For existing construction robots, differences exist in terms of how construction robots perform tasks competently and the degree to which they can replace construction workers. In general, the construction field is in a phase of human–machine collaboration and will remain so for a long time to come. Results can provide guidance for the application promotion and decision-making of construction robots.