The power of technology and fashion has combined in a thought-provoking project that demonstrates how data can transform African cities. Technology leader Siemens used data from the cities of Lagos, Nairobi and Johannesburg and wove it into unique fabrics which tell a story about each city. Three iconic African fashion designers then used the fabrics to create one-of-a-kind outfits, which are as stylish as they are smart.
Fabric – launched in Johannesburg on 23 August – showcases how digitalisation of the industrial world is fast becoming the biggest transformation of our time, and highlights how data combined with smart technology will ensure that tomorrow’s cities are more connected, efficient and powered.
Three African fashion designers created 12 extraordinary outfits from vast amounts of data extracted from the chosen cities. The intricate garments by John Kaveke (Kenyan), Zizi Cardow (Nigerian) and Palesa Mokubung (South African) outline a variety of patterns from power grids, shipping and tonnage to population densities, transport and areas of connectivity. Data from each of these sectors tell a powerful story about each city and how digitalisation can transform them. All of this is told through the universal language of fashion and design.
“This is how we thought to express the aspect of digitalisation,” said Keshin Govender, group communications head for Siemens South Africa. “As urbanisation rapidly increases, cities need to start preparing for the effects it will have on infrastructure, energy, water and transportation systems.
“Data gives greater insight on what makes each city tick, helping us make calculated decisions and improve service delivery to the people. Through the Fabric project, it was evident that the challenge is not what to do with the avalanche of data, but rather accessing reliable and recent data. This project has highlighted the need for access to data in order to make sound urban planning decisions.”
Siemens is well positioned in automation, electrification and digitalisation to find solutions to the various challenges of today. It is uniquely positioned to unlock the potential of digitalisation through its combination of digital expertise, domain know-how and understanding of hardware in order to leverage digital technologies and optimise operations.
“While there is a growing adoption of intelligent machines within certain sectors like the automotive industry, the real opportunity for Africa lies in sectors where it has not yet been explored like manufacturing, energy and transportation,” concluded Govender. “This is a remarkable opportunity for Africa, which will result in the establishment of new industries and new jobs while exponentially increasing skills development and contributing to GDP.”
Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.
Read more...Modular training workstation for Bosch Rexroth Bosch Rexroth Africa
News
To enhance its training services and address the shortage of hydraulic and pneumatic skills across the continent, Bosch Rexroth Africa’s training department has unveiled a state-of-the-art modular training workstation.
Read more...Pepperl+Fuchs Channel Partner Conference Pepperl+Fuchs
News
Pepperl+Fuchs recently hosted its Channel Partner Conference. Under the theme ‘Together, Breaking Ground in Africa’, the conference served as both a celebration of partnerships and a strategic forum focused on future growth.
Read more...Next-generation AI-enhanced electronic systems design software Siemens South Africa
IT in Manufacturing
Siemens Digital Industries Software has launched the latest advancement in its electronic systems design portfolio. The next-generation release takes an integrated and multidisciplinary approach, bringing a unified user experience that delivers cloud connectivity and AI capabilities to push the boundaries of innovation in electronic systems design.
Read more...Bühler celebrates expansion, innovation and sustainability
News
Bühler has marked another milestone in its dedication to regional support with the expansion of its Cape Town Service Centre. Hosting its annual customer day, the company showcased the facility’s new offerings and highlighted its commitment to service excellence, local innovation, and sustainability.
Read more...From the editor's desk: First break it, then fix it Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
News
Welcome to another year with SA Instrumentation & Control. May it be a happy and healthy one where you can rise to the challenges ahead and still enjoy all the good things we have in this country.
...
Read more...SEW-EURODRIVE’s new service and repair centre SEW-EURODRIVE
News
As part of its strategy to ‘close the loop’ in its service offering, SEW-EURODRIVE has broken ground on a new 17 000 m2 Service and Repair Centre. The establishment of the state-of-the-art facility plugs the gap for expert repair services for gearboxes in Africa.
Read more...EtherCAT Technology Group holds its annual Plug Fest
News
The 2024 EtherCAT Plug Fest of the EtherCAT Technology Group offered participants a valuable opportunity to test the interoperability of their 9 EtherCAT MainDevices and 10 EtherCAT SubDevices. Using the knowledge gained, they will be able to improve compatibility and optimise their products for use in the field.
printer friendly version