Not sure I agree completely. We're looking at a pretty tight niche here, but I think that humanity is, on the whole, is undergoing a shift where projects that

Not sure I agree completely. We're looking at a pretty tight niche here, but I think that humanity is, on the whole, is undergoing a shift where projects that appear insurmountable will become commonplace. Have you seen the automated quad-rotor flying machines that can assemble structures with rudimentary components? http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/grasp-lab-quadrocopters-learn-to-follow-the-leader-and-fly-in-fo/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/grasp-lab-quadrocopters-l... This is in early research, but the development of automation systems like this are tightly linked to microprocessor and software advances. Automation technology has been on a steady march of improvement. Simple tasks like moving dirt, stacking blocks, and pouring concrete are a large part of the construction of flood protection projects. These tasks are perfect targets for automation. Even without the help of quadrocopters, a firm in China has embarked upon the task of building world's tallest building in 90 days. If they pull it off, and if the building stands, it will change a lot of expectations.