May 19, 2025 - May 23, 2025
https://cearlab.github.io/blockbyblock.github.io/
In this workshop, we explore the unique challenges and opportunities that multi-agent systems (MAS) present for push manipulation of loose materials for site preparation and prefabricated assembly. Specifically, this workshop focuses on planning and coordinating MAS for both push manipulation and modular assembly tasks, emphasizing decentralized approaches.
Push Manipulation: Many essential site preparation tasks are accessible to robots with general-purpose pushing tools. These tasks—such as mapping the material on the ground, leveling the ground, clearing debris, and shaping loose materials like soil and gravel—are crucial before building can begin. This workshop will address the organization and coordination of MAS to carry out these tasks; by leveraging precise coordinated pushing actions, robots will create a solid foundation for the construction process.
Modular construction: Modular construction, where prefabricated units are assembled into larger structures, offers a flexible, scalable approach ideal for robotic systems. Coordinating a team of heterogeneous robots to efficiently execute these tasks requires sophisticated planning and scheduling algorithms. The workshop will address sequencing module placements and ensure seamless agent coordination, utilizing bioinspired techniques and optimization strategies to enhance performance and scalability.
This workshop aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to advance the modular construction and site preparation field, focusing on the latest state-of-the-art research. We emphasize the importance of formulating clear and impactful research questions, as better questions lead to better research outcomes.
Submission instructions:
We are pleased to invite submissions for Block by Block 2025! Please follow the submission guidelines below:
- Submission format: An abstract of up to 300 words.
- Submission opens: February 24th, 2025.
- Submission closes: April 18th, 2025
- Notification of acceptance: Final decisions will be communicated by April 27th, 2025.
- The accepted abstract will present their work with a lightning talk and a poster. Furthermore, we will collect a 2-page double-column paper (excluding references) highlighting your work. We will collect and publish all the workshop’s papers on arxiv. The paper shall follow the ICRA template. We will collect the papers via email after notification of acceptance.
Submission topics include, but are not limited to:
- Push Manipulation
- Modular Construction
- MAS Planning
- Heterogeneous Teams
- MAS Localization
- MAS Coordination
We look forward to your contributions! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.
Submissions open: Feb. 24, 2025 - April 18, 2025
Abstract review period: April 19, 2025 - April 25, 2025
Contact Email: [email protected]