https://doi.org/10.24928/2025/0137
Perceptions of Robotic Inspections for Confined Spaces in Lean Construction: a Qualitative Study
Zhong Wang1, Qipei Mei2, Gaang Lee3, Thomas Bock4 & Vicente A. González5
1PhD Student, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Alberta, Canada, [email protected], 0000-0002-7113-34392Assistant Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Alberta, Canada, [email protected], 0000-0003-1409-3562
3Assistant Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Alberta, Canada, [email protected], 0000-0002-6341-2585
4Chair of Building Realization and Robotics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany, [email protected], 0000-0002-1278-7440
5Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Alberta, Canada, [email protected], 0000-0003-3408-3863
Abstract
This qualitative study investigates industry professionals' perceptions of robotic inspections for confined spaces within the framework of Lean Construction 4.0 with a focus on facility maintenance. Confined space inspections are crucial for safety and asset integrity but are often associated with risks, inefficiencies, and high costs. Robotic inspections offer a potential solution, aligning with Lean Construction 4.0 principles that integrates lean principles such as eliminating waste, respect for people, along with technology as a means to an end. Through a focus group with ten experienced facility maintenance professionals, the study explored current practices, challenges, expectations, and hesitations regarding robotic inspections. Findings revealed that while participants recognized the potential of robots to enhance safety, accessibility, and data quality, they also expressed concerns about sensor reliability, data security, cost, and integration with existing workflows. These concerns resonate with previously identified barriers to sensor adoption in construction. The study highlights the need for human-centered design, robust and reliable technology, and seamless integration to successfully implement robotic inspections. Future research should focus on addressing these technological and human factors to advance Lean Construction 4.0 goals and realize the full potential of robotic inspections in creating safer, more efficient confined space inspection processes.
Keywords
Lean construction 4.0, Qualitative Study, Robotics, Sensors, Confined Space Inspection
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Reference in APA 7th edition format:
Wang, Z., Mei, Q., Lee, G., Bock, T. & González, V. A.. (2025). Perceptions of Robotic Inspections for Confined Spaces in Lean Construction: a Qualitative Study. In Seppänen, O., Koskela, L., & Murata , K. (Eds.), Proceedings of the 33rd Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC 33) (pp. 987–998). https://doi.org/10.24928/2025/0137
Shortened reference for use in IGLC papers:
Wang, Z., Mei, Q., Lee, G., Bock, T. & González, V. A.. (2025). Perceptions of Robotic Inspections for Confined Spaces in Lean Construction: a Qualitative Study. IGLC33. https://doi.org/10.24928/2025/0137
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