Robotics Research Center

Proposing a new vision for the construction industry through digital technology

The Robotics Research Center develops foundational technologies that connect cyberspace and physical space to advance digital transformation in construction. Through robotics, AI, simulation, and other technologies, we contribute to improving productivity and safety at construction sites.

Automating Earthwork — Joint Research with the Public Works Research Institute

To enable automated earthwork, we are conducting research and development in measurement, control, and simulation technologies using “OPERA”, an automated construction technology platform developed by the Public Works Research Institute (PWRI).

Demonstration of construction DX technologies at PWRI’s test field

Automated construction system using a digital twin

News release: Automating Excavation and Dump Truck Loading Using a Hydraulic Excavator（in Japanese）

AI Robotics

We are researching advanced AI robots equipped with construction skills and knowledge. Unlike conventional robots that repeat the same motions, AI robots can learn from construction-site data and construction knowledge, enabling them to adapt to diverse conditions and perform tasks autonomously. Our goal is to automate and streamline complex, sophisticated work at construction sites while passing construction expertise on to the next generation.

Video: Potential applications of AI robots (2:36)

News release: Shimizu Corporation Launches Full-Scale Development of "AI Robots"— Pioneering the Implementation of AI Robots in the Japanese Construction Industry —

AI-Based Construction Management — Enhancing Efficiency and Effectiveness with AI and ICT

We use advanced ICT and AI to digitize construction-site data, then integrate it with 3D BIM/CIM, LiDAR, image analysis, and multimodal AI to monitor construction progress, estimate work status, and support schedule management. Our goal is to reduce the workload associated with construction management while making it more effective.

Visualizing construction progress using LiDAR and 3D BIM/CIM

Construction management support using multimodal AI

News release: Developing an AI-Based Construction Management System to Accelerate AI Transformation at Construction Sites (in Japanese)

Explainable AI (XAI) — Decision Support with Construction-Site Knowledge

We are working to enhance the reliability of AI-based situational understanding and decision support by incorporating construction-site knowledge, including site rules, construction procedures, safety standards, and records of past accidents and near misses. Using knowledge graphs and other techniques, we aim to develop a system that explains which information the AI uses and how it reaches a conclusion.