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WEEKLY DISPATCH
Universal Robots launches its seventh generation robot platform at IMTS
Robotics Business Review·Sep 14, 2026

Universal Robots launches its seventh generation robot platform at IMTS

Universal Robots unveiled its seventh generation platform, featuring three new robot arms, an upgraded core controller, and an AI-ready tool flange designed for construction and manufacturing applications. The new generation represents a significant advancement in collaborative robotics capability and performance.

RoboticsAI & ML
One Year In: A Look at the Initial Impacts of LEED v5 on the Built Environment
Construction Executive·Sep 14, 2026

One Year In: A Look at the Initial Impacts of LEED v5 on the Built Environment

LEED v5 has shifted its certification framework to prioritize decarbonization, social equity, and ecosystem restoration rather than previous metrics. After one year of implementation, the standard is reshaping how the construction industry approaches building design and environmental responsibility.

Materials
Building Opportunity
AGC of America News·Sep 14, 2026

Building Opportunity

How autonomous fleets are changing what’s possible in American agriculture
Robotics Business Review·Sep 13, 2026

How autonomous fleets are changing what’s possible in American agriculture

Autonomous tractors are being deployed in American agriculture through partnerships like ASI's collaboration with U.S. Sugar and Everglades Equipment, demonstrating new operational capabilities for the industry. The technology shows how autonomous fleet management can expand possibilities for large-scale farming operations.

AutonomyRobotics
More Than a Seat at the Table
AGC of America News·Sep 14, 2026

More Than a Seat at the Table

The construction industry is expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups to participate in decision-making and leadership roles. Greater diversity in planning and management positions leads to better project outcomes and stronger workforce development.

Workforce
Ultrasound offers a scalable path to tactile intelligence for physical AI
Robotics Business Review·Sep 12, 2026

Ultrasound offers a scalable path to tactile intelligence for physical AI

UltraSense has developed an ultrasound-based sensing technology that gives robotic hands the ability to feel and respond to tactile feedback without experiencing wear and tear from traditional touch sensors. This approach could enable construction robots to handle materials and tools more intelligently while maintaining durability on job sites.

RoboticsAI & ML
Concern for the Potential of AI-Related Claims Is Driving Insurance Changes
AGC of America News·Sep 14, 2026

Concern for the Potential of AI-Related Claims Is Driving Insurance Changes

Insurance companies are updating coverage policies and premiums in response to growing risks associated with AI technology in construction. Contractors need to understand these changes as insurers work to clarify liability and coverage gaps related to AI-driven tools and systems on jobsites.

AI & ML
WEEKLY DISPATCH
CAT puts century-old train tech to work in new, heavier electric drive dozer
Electrek – Construction Vehicles·Sep 11, 2026

CAT puts century-old train tech to work in new, heavier electric drive dozer

Caterpillar is adopting diesel-electric hybrid technology from century-old locomotive designs to power a new, heavier electric drive dozer. The proven combination of diesel engines driving generators to supply high-torque electric motors offers improved efficiency and performance for heavy earthmoving equipment.

Electrification
One brick at a time: How Monumental uses robotics to build walls
Robotics Business Review·Sep 11, 2026

One brick at a time: How Monumental uses robotics to build walls

Monumental is using robotic systems to automate wall construction, improving speed and consistency in bricklaying operations. CEO Salar al Khafaji discusses the company's approach to bringing robotics into traditional masonry work.

RoboticsWorkforce
WEEKLY DISPATCH
Work Zone Safety Systems and Risk Prevention
Construction Executive·Sep 11, 2026

Work Zone Safety Systems and Risk Prevention

Work zone safety gaps occur because traffic management plans and crew operation plans don't adequately connect, creating blind spots in safety protocols. Closing this planning disconnect is essential to preventing accidents in construction zones where public traffic and work operations overlap.

Safety
Learn how AVs and robotics are laying the groundwork for field deployments at RoboBusiness
Robotics Business Review·Sep 11, 2026

Learn how AVs and robotics are laying the groundwork for field deployments at RoboBusiness

ASI CEO Mel Torrie will discuss how autonomous vehicles and robotics are combining to transform field operations and job site deployments. The intersection of these technologies is expected to drive significant advances in how construction and field work gets done.

AutonomyRobotics
Jobsite Security: The Core Equipment Needed to Secure Isolated Projects
Construction Executive·Sep 11, 2026

Jobsite Security: The Core Equipment Needed to Secure Isolated Projects

Securing isolated jobsites requires a multi-layered approach combining surveillance cameras, communication systems, onsite security personnel, and proper fencing. This integrated strategy addresses the unique vulnerabilities of remote construction projects and helps prevent theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access.

Workforce
How to select the right rack and pinion system for high-precision linear motion
Robotics Business Review·Sep 11, 2026

How to select the right rack and pinion system for high-precision linear motion

Selecting the right rack and pinion system requires careful consideration of pinion size to achieve high-precision linear motion in robotic applications. Proper motion control equipment is essential for robotics designers working on precision-dependent construction tasks.

Robotics
WEEKLY DISPATCH
New, 50-ton Volvo EC500 Electric excavator never needs charging
Electrek – Construction Vehicles·Sep 11, 2026

New, 50-ton Volvo EC500 Electric excavator never needs charging

Volvo has introduced the EC500 Electric, a 50-ton excavator designed to match the performance of its diesel counterpart without requiring charging. The company claims the electric model delivers equivalent capabilities to the traditional EC500 that construction professionals already rely on.

Electrification
How drone developers are navigating changing regulatory landscapes to help farmers
Robotics Business Review·Sep 11, 2026

How drone developers are navigating changing regulatory landscapes to help farmers

Drone developers are adapting their operations as the FCC implements restrictions on foreign-made robots and previously restricted drones. Agricultural drone companies like Hylio are navigating these regulatory changes to continue serving the farming industry.

RoboticsAutonomy
Construction technology in 2026: what's changed and what matters
Fieldwire Blog·Sep 11, 2026

Construction technology in 2026: what's changed and what matters

The article examines construction technology innovations expected by 2026, highlighting which developments have already gained traction and which ones will have the most practical impact on job sites. Key advances in automation, materials, and worker safety are reshaping how construction firms operate and manage projects.

AI & MLRobotics
Teradyne Robotics sues JAKA over 3 Universal Robots patents
Robotics Business Review·Sep 10, 2026

Teradyne Robotics sues JAKA over 3 Universal Robots patents

Teradyne Robotics has filed a lawsuit against JAKA over three Universal Robots patents covering robot interfaces, safety brakes, and joint mechanisms. The patent dispute centers on technology fundamental to collaborative robot design and operation.

Robotics
What to look for in a jobsite management software demo before you commit
Fieldwire Blog·Sep 11, 2026

What to look for in a jobsite management software demo before you commit

Before purchasing jobsite management software, evaluate whether the demo covers your specific workflows, integrates with tools your team already uses, and includes real-world reporting features that match your project needs. Test the user interface for ease of use across different roles on your crew and confirm that customer support and training are included in the package.

Workforce
Swarmer to acquire Ukrainian UGV maker Ratel Robotics for up to $224M
Robotics Business Review·Sep 10, 2026

Swarmer to acquire Ukrainian UGV maker Ratel Robotics for up to $224M

Swarmer is acquiring Ukrainian unmanned ground vehicle maker Ratel Robotics in a deal valued up to $224 million. The combined company will integrate Swarmer's swarm software technology with Ratel's UGVs for construction and field operations.

RoboticsAutonomy
Marking up plans from the field: What to look for in plan markup software
Fieldwire Blog·Sep 11, 2026

Marking up plans from the field: What to look for in plan markup software

Plan markup software helps construction teams annotate and modify field plans in real time, improving communication between site workers and office staff. Key features to evaluate include ease of use, integration with existing systems, markup tools, version control, and mobile accessibility.

Workforce
Comau automates picking, handling, and palletizing for Decathlon
Robotics Business Review·Sep 10, 2026

Comau automates picking, handling, and palletizing for Decathlon

Comau has deployed an automated system for Decathlon that uses collaborative robots, AI-powered vision, and modular grippers to handle picking, packing, and palletizing tasks. The solution combines Comau's MyCo cobot with ROS2 software architecture to streamline warehouse and fulfillment operations.

RoboticsAI & ML
Jobsite software for commercial painting contractors managing multiple crews
Fieldwire Blog·Sep 11, 2026

Jobsite software for commercial painting contractors managing multiple crews

Jobsite software designed specifically for commercial painting contractors streamlines operations by centralizing crew management, scheduling, and project tracking across multiple teams. The platform helps contractors improve efficiency, reduce coordination overhead, and maintain better visibility into daily operations across distributed work crews.

Workforce
Last Chance to Register for Autodesk University 2026
Autodesk Construction Cloud Blog·Sep 10, 2026

Last Chance to Register for Autodesk University 2026

Autodesk University 2026 is being held September 15-17 in Las Vegas and offers sessions, events, and an expo focused on construction technology and digital transformation. Early registration is still available for construction professionals looking to explore the latest tools and strategies in the industry.

Materials
Construction software ROI: How to quantify the value for leadership
Fieldwire Blog·Sep 11, 2026

Construction software ROI: How to quantify the value for leadership

Construction leaders need concrete metrics to justify software investments, including labor savings, project timeline reductions, and error prevention. Quantifying ROI through data tracking and comparison of pre- and post-implementation performance helps secure buy-in for technology adoption across the organization.

Workforce