Motion Control & Drives


South Africa’s robotic future

February 2024 Motion Control & Drives

National sales manager for Yaskawa Southern Africa, Jan T’Hart shares his insights on the future of automation in this country, highlighting the trends set to redefine manufacturing. Yaskawa’s vision for the new year includes technological advancements, industry-specific needs, and a commitment to sustainability.

Emerging technologies and innovations

Yaskawa expects that continued advancements in AI, especially in machine learning and deep learning, will enhance the capabilities of robots, especially with respect to perception, decision making, and adaptability to dynamic environments. Edge computing will also play a role. Processing data closer to the source can reduce latency and improve real-time decision making for robots. This is particularly important in applications like autonomous vehicles and drones.

Human-robot collaboration

Collaborative robotics (cobots) and safety technologies enable closer interaction between humans and robots in shared workspaces. With these advancements, South Africa’s manufacturing sector can expect a seamless integration of humans and robots in the future, fostering productive and efficient working environments. “This is particularly relevant in manufacturing and healthcare settings,” he says.

Advanced sensing technologies

In 2024, increased use of innovations in sensor technologies such as Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and radar, and also improved computer vision, will enhance the perception capabilities of robots. According to T’Hart, this is crucial for navigation, object recognition, and interaction with the environment.


Jan T’Hart, national sales manager for Yaskawa Southern Africa.

AI and machine learning

Yaskawa recognises the transformative role of AI and machine learning in enhancing perception, adaptive decision making, predictive maintenance and task automation for robots. These align with South Africa’s goal of using intelligent automation to boost its productivity and competitiveness in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Autonomous robotics

To keep up with forthcoming trends in automation, T’Hart emphasises that Yaskawa, like many other companies in the industry, will embrace the principles of Industry 4.0. This involves the integration of digital technologies and data analytics to create smart and connected manufacturing systems. Additionally, Yaskawa’s exploration of autonomous navigation, Simultaneous Localisation And Mapping (SLAM) technology and AI-based decision making will keep it at the forefront of autonomy trends. This will help meet the growing demand for autonomous solutions in South Africa, so that machines can operate with increasing independence.

Security and safety measures

When it comes to safety and security, the company adheres to industry safety standards and regulations relevant to the robotics sector. “Yaskawa’s comprehensive approach to security encompasses safety standards, advanced sensors, safe collaboration, access control, network security and thorough risk assessments. “This robust strategy addresses the need for secure and safe robotic systems in South Africa, especially in sensitive sectors where reliability is paramount,” explains T’Hart. “Collision avoidance systems are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of both the robotic system and human operators. Yaskawa will continue investing in technologies and design principles that facilitate safe human-robot collaboration. This includes developing cobots with features like force limiting and speed monitoring to ensure that robots can work alongside humans without posing a danger.”

Sustainability measures

In response to the increasing drive for sustainability, Yaskawa places great emphasis on energy-efficient design, regenerative braking, low-power standby modes, material selection, recycling and efficient production processes. These reflect South Africa’s commitment to environmental responsibility, and the company takes a holistic approach to minimising the ecological footprint of robotic systems.

Industry-specific trends

“COVID-19 accelerated the adoption of contactless technologies. For example, in the workplace, robots are now deployed to perform tasks that traditionally involved human contact, such as cleaning, disinfecting, and material handling. They are equipped with more advanced sensors and vision systems, and are employed to maintain person/machine distance in manufacturing and assembly lines. In essence, these robots can adapt their movements based on the proximity of human workers,” explains T’Hart.

Strategic collaborations

T’Hart explains that collaborations with research institutions, universities and colleges can provide access to cutting-edge research and talent. Yaskawa works with its academic partners to stay informed about the latest developments in robotics, and to contribute to the advancement of the field. By collaborating with companies that specialise in artificial intelligence, computer vision, and edge computing, Yaskawa can integrate the latest technologies into its solutions.

As Yaskawa charts a course through the landscape of robotics in South Africa, its vision extends beyond mere innovation. The company aims to be not only a thought leader, but also a strategic partner that can facilitate the transition of South African industries into a future where robotics and automation redefine the possibilities.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

New torque sensors for fastening applications
Spero Sensors & Instrumentation Motion Control & Drives
Sensor Technology, a global leader in innovative torque and load measurement solutions, has launched its latest advancement in torque sensing technology.

Read more...
Tough chain and induction hardened sprockets
Bearing Man Group t/a BMG Motion Control & Drives
BMG’s Tsubaki Titan chain series offers significant improvements in wear life, particularly in demanding applications like abrasive and dusty conditions.

Read more...
Innomotics powers largest heat pump system in the Netherlands
Motion Control & Drives
Innomotics, a global leader in the provision of electric motors and large drive systems, has played a pivotal role in the realisation of the largest heat pump system in the Netherlands. It is located at the municipal wastewater treatment plant in Utrecht.

Read more...
Heavy-duty V-belts for aggressive conditions
Bearing Man Group t/a BMG Motion Control & Drives
BMG’s extensive range of specialised Gates belting includes heavy-duty Predator V-belts, which have been specially designed to meet the challenges of drives that need to perform optimally in harsh African conditions.

Read more...
Three decades, one Perfect Harmony GH180
Motion Control & Drives
When customers seek to install a new medium voltage variable frequency drive, their priorities are reliability, efficiency and ease of use. Innomotics excels in these areas with its robust product offerings.

Read more...
Robust industrial chain solutions
Motion Control & Drives
Bearings International recently relaunched its quality range of premium brand chain solutions, KÖBO and Zexus, alongside its renowned private label offering Roller Chain Opti.

Read more...
Unlocking the smart factory
ElectroMechanica Editor's Choice Motion Control & Drives
At ElectroMechanica, we recognise that transitioning to smart automation isn’t just about adopting new technology; it’s about solving real challenges. Labour shortages, rising costs and downtime due to outdated machinery make digital transformation essential for long-term competitiveness.

Read more...
Enhanced grease gun and pump range
SKF South Africa Motion Control & Drives
The addition of a new LAGC S coupler to enhance the performance, safety and ease of operation of SKF’s proven grease gun and pump ranges demonstrates the company’s commitment to channelling innovation into its products and technology solutions.

Read more...
Problem solving under pressure
Axiom Hydraulics Motion Control & Drives
The greatest strength of Axiom Hydraulics lies in the company’s ability to solve complex problems and adapt systems to meet unique challenges. This capability stems from two key factors: the diverse experience of its team members, which spans decades across multiple disciplines, and their unwavering dedication to their clients.

Read more...
New AI advisor for robot selection
igus Motion Control & Drives
igus’ new AI chatbot has been added to the online platform RBTX.com. The interactive consultant is designed to enable companies with little previous experience and technological expertise to quickly and reliably put together low-cost automation solutions to becoming more competitive.

Read more...