Exploring how robots and construction workers can work safely together using virtual reality and data analysis.
Official title: Human-Robot Collaboration in Construction: Assessing Cognitive Factors for Construction Workers Using Virtual Reality-Wearable Devices-Data Analytics Integrated Approach
Funded at Mississippi State University · NIH-10951018 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how people and robots can work together safely on construction sites, focusing on how things like stress and tiredness can affect safety, and it’s designed for construction workers who want to help make their jobs safer and more efficient.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mississippi State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mississippi State, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $129,299 |
| NIH project number | 1R21OH012742-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951018 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include construction workers who are interested in how technology can enhance their safety and efficiency on the job.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in the construction industry or do not work in environments where human-robot collaboration is relevant may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the collaboration between humans and robots in construction settings, focusing on cognitive factors that affect worker safety, such as mental fatigue and stress. By utilizing virtual reality and wearable devices, the study aims to assess how these cognitive risks manifest in the presence of robotic assistance. The goal is to develop strategies that enhance safety and efficiency in construction by understanding the human element in these interactions. Participants may engage in simulations that help identify potential safety hazards and improve working conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer working environments for construction workers by improving human-robot collaboration.
How similar studies have gone: While research on human-robot collaboration is emerging, this specific focus on cognitive factors in construction is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Jun — Mississippi State University
- Study coordinator: Wang, Jun
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.