Bedrock Robotics has raised $80 million to retrofit construction equipment with AI-driven automation, aiming to address a significant labor shortage and enhance safety in construction. With half a million construction jobs unfilled and many workers nearing retirement, Bedrock's autonomous systems intend to alleviate these issues by converting traditional machines into autonomous excavators and bulldozers. These systems utilize cameras, sensors, and machine learning, allowing for continuous operation and timely project completion. Bedrock’s CEO Boris Sofman emphasized that automation could prevent workplace injuries in an industry known for its hazards, where 199 deaths occurred from heavy machinery in 2022. He argued that instead of causing job losses, automation can create new employment opportunities by accelerating project timelines. Additionally, several competing firms are developing their own autonomous solutions, indicating a growing investment in the construction robotics market, projected to reach $8 billion by 2033.

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