Breaking down barriers: A study of challenges to adopting powered exoskeletons in the US construction industry

Madeline Breneman, Amit Ojha, Houtan Jebelli, Susan J. Simkins, Abiola Akanmu

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Powered exoskeletons have the potential to reduce the physical demands on construction workers and enhance their abilities, yet adoption of this technology has been limited in the US construction sector. To that end, this study aimed to identify the barriers to the adoption of powered exoskeletons in the US construction industry. Firstly, a literature review was conducted to identify commercially available powered exoskeletons suitable for construction. Concurrently, questionnaires were developed and distributed among construction practitioners to understand the challenges associated with the implementation of powered exoskeletons in the US construction industry. The results showed that concerns about usability and productivity gains were the main barriers to the adoption of exoskeletons in the construction sector. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for improving the adoption and implementation of powered exoskeletons in the US construction industry, which could enhance worker safety and productivity.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationComputing in Civil Engineering 2023
Subtitle of host publicationData, Sensing, and Analytics - Selected Papers from the ASCE International Conference on Computing in Civil Engineering 2023
EditorsYelda Turkan, Joseph Louis, Fernanda Leite, Semiha Ergan
PublisherAmerican Society of Civil Engineers
Pages763-770
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9780784485224
DOIs
StatePublished - 2024
Externally publishedYes
EventASCE International Conference on Computing in Civil Engineering 2023: Data, Sensing, and Analytics, i3CE 2023 - Corvallis, United States
Duration: Jun 25 2023Jun 28 2023

Publication series

NameComputing in Civil Engineering 2023: Data, Sensing, and Analytics - Selected Papers from the ASCE International Conference on Computing in Civil Engineering 2023

Conference

ConferenceASCE International Conference on Computing in Civil Engineering 2023: Data, Sensing, and Analytics, i3CE 2023
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityCorvallis
Period6/25/236/28/23

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Computer Science
  • Civil and Structural Engineering

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