International Journal of Structural Analysis and Advanced Construction Techniques

AI-based Robotic Technology in the Construction Industry: A Comprehensive Review

Anshul Jain — 2025-11-07

The construction industry, long defined by its reliance on manual labor, hazardous working conditions, and gradual uptake of innovations, is experiencing a profound evolution through the fusion of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic technologies. This paradigm shift promises to address longstanding inefficiencies, such as project delays, high accident rates, and environmental waste, by introducing intelligent automation that enhances precision and decision-making. This study delves into the contemporary landscape of AI-based robotic systems in construction, examining their applications, inherent challenges, and potential trajectories for future development. Drawing from interdisciplinary advancements in automation, machine learning algorithms, computer vision for real-time analysis, and sophisticated robotics hardware, the paper synthesizes how these technologies are revolutionizing the sector. Key impacts include boosted productivity through optimized workflows, improved safety via hazard detection and human-robot collaboration, greater sustainability with resource-efficient designs and reduced carbon footprints, and enhanced cost-efficiency by minimizing errors and rework. Specific applications highlighted encompass autonomous heavy machinery for earthmoving and site preparation, robotic arms for precise bricklaying and modular assembly, large-scale 3D printing for rapid building fabrication, and drone-based inspection systems equipped with AI for structural assessments and quality control. However, the adoption of these systems faces multifaceted barriers: technical issues like integration with legacy equipment and data security concerns; economic hurdles, including high initial investments and skill gaps in the workforce; and social factors such as job displacement fears and regulatory uncertainties. By addressing these obstacles, the paper provides a comprehensive framework for understanding AI-driven robotics’ transformative role in construction.

Evaluation of the Effect of Nonlinear Variable Stiffness Bracing System on Steel Frames

Hashim Attar Bashi — 2025-08-18

In the most recent year, uses of the passive energy dissipation system have turned out to be most notable in the Earthquake Engineering Society. Dampers are utilized as part of the structure to protect it against lateral loads. The improvement of an adaptive seismic activity energy dissipation device has become necessary to enhance control of structures without relying upon electric power, which is not decisive during seismic excitation. When a structural system becomes difficult and earthquake movements get stronger, more energy is required to run these types of devices. Various hybrid and semi-active techniques have been introduced to solve this energy issue. A numerical study for the damper connector and energy dissipation device (variable stiffness bracing system) was presented in this paper to protect structures under the effect of seismic loads. A cyclic load was considered to evaluate the response of a steel structure equipped with a VSB device subjected to cyclic and seismic loads. According to the analysis, the results indicate that the behavior of the steel frames with the VSB system will vary based on the material properties of the device. A finite element G400 steel frame model was considered in this study, so by adding the VSB system to the G400 steel frame model, lesser deformation is obtained. Also, the frame with VSB will resist more force than the G400 bare frame.

Illustrative Structural Comparison of RCC and Steel Structures Based on Numerical Analysis: An Educational Perspective

Md. Munirul Islam — 2025-11-19

Reinforced cement concrete (RCC) and steel structures are two widely used construction systems, each with distinct characteristics. RCC combines the compressive strength of concrete with the tensile strength of steel reinforcement, making it ideal for buildings, bridges, and dams due to its durability, fire resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Steel structures, on the other hand, utilize steel’s high strength-to-weight ratio, offering flexibility, faster construction, and suitability for high-rise buildings and large-span structures, such as stadiums. While RCC is preferred for its robustness and low maintenance, steel structures excel in seismic zones and projects requiring rapid assembly and aesthetic versatility. This study presents an academic comparison of structural performance between RCC and steel structures for multistory buildings in Bangladesh. A four-storied (G+3) building was modeled using STAAD. Pro V8i for both RCC and steel with identical architectural plans to evaluate key responses such as base shear, seismic behavior, support reactions, deflection, and stress distribution. The load conditions were governed by BNBC (2006), with RCC designed per ACI 2008 (USD) and steel per AISC 2010 (LRFD). Key findings reveal that the RCC structure exhibited a 31.09% higher base shear and greater seismic load due to its weight, whereas the steel structure demonstrated superior load distribution with up to 94.2% higher support reactions. Steel’s flexibility also resulted in greater horizontal deflection and stress concentration under seismic and wind loads. These insights highlight RCC’s stability under static loads and steel’s adaptability to dynamic conditions, guiding material choices for efficient building design and providing a foundation for future studies incorporating contemporary design standards.

A Technical Survey of Nonlinear Finite Element Methods for Soil Structure Interaction under Seismic Loading

Martin Yinbenete Wombeogo — 2025-08-27

Soil-structure interaction (SSI) is fundamental to understanding how structures respond during earthquakes. The complex, nonlinear behavior of soils and structural materials under dynamic loading makes linear models inadequate for accurate analysis. Nonlinear finite element methods (NLFEM) offer a powerful toolset for capturing the true response of SSI systems, accounting for material nonlinearity, geometric changes, and soil-structure coupling effects.
This technical review examines recent developments in nonlinear SSI modeling, focusing on advanced constitutive soil models, boundary condition treatments, and the integration of geometric and material nonlinearities. Drawing from a wide range of experimental studies such as centrifuge tests, shaking tables, and real-world earthquake case histories, the review evaluates the accuracy, limitations, and computational demands of current approaches.
Research indicates that nonlinear SSI modeling can improve seismic performance predictions by up to 30% in soft soils, enhancing safety and resilience. However, key challenges persist, including uncertainty in soil parameters, limited availability of large-scale experimental data, and high computational costs. Additionally, many existing models fail to represent structural irregularities and remain poorly integrated into seismic design codes.
The review includes a comparative summary table of modeling techniques, material laws, and numerical tools, highlighting critical research gaps such as the need for broader validation and integration with AI-based modeling. Future directions suggest leveraging hybrid numerical experimental approaches and machine learning techniques to enhance prediction accuracy while reducing computational load. By consolidating recent advances and pinpointing ongoing limitations, this review provides researchers and practitioners with a practical reference for improving the accuracy, efficiency, and applicability of nonlinear SSI simulations in seismic engineering.

Mechanical Characteristics of Fly Ash, GGBS, and GBFS Used Geopolymer Concrete: A Sustainable Cement Alternative

Md. Shaon Ahmed — 2025-07-03

This research examines the feasibility of Geopolymer Concrete (GPC) utilizing fly ash and ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS) as sole binders, thereby eliminating the need for standard cement. Classes F fly ash and GGBS were utilized as primary cementitious materials, with Ground Blast Furnace Slag (GBFS) replacing fine aggregate. The mix proportions were designed for M30 concrete, maintaining a constant water to binder ratio of 0.5. Alkaline activators, comprising sodium hydroxide (98% purity) and sodium silicate in a 2:1 ratio, were used at a binder to activator ratio of 0.40. The preparation process involved thorough mixing of dry materials, followed by incorporation of a pre prepared alkaline solution, with the final mix cured under a hybrid regime of oven curing at 100°C and subsequent air curing at room temperature. Mechanical properties, including compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths, were evaluated at 7 and 28 days using standard procedures. Results suggest that GPC made with fly ash and GGBS provides substantial promise as an ecologically friendly alternative to traditional cement based concrete, attaining appropriate mechanical characteristics and durability. The results emphasize the appropriateness of GPC for structural applications, contributing to decreased carbon emissions and increasing the use of industrial by products in buildings.