Electricity and Control December 2024

INDUSTRY 4.0 + IIOT : PRODUCTS + SERVICES

Robotics for SMEs

As industries increasingly integrate robotics and automation into their operations, South Africa’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are beginning to recognise the benefits they offer. Smaller businesses have generally considered robotic integration to be too complex for their needs and more appropriate for companies operating on a larger scale, mainly due to the initial cost and the complexity of adoption. Yaskawa South Africa acknowledges this and is addressing these concerns to create solutions that simplify the installation and operation process, making robotics accessible and suitable for businesses of all sizes and in diverse industries. This includes offering flexible financial models and investing in skills development to help smaller businesses optimise productivity and growth in a competitive market. The South African SME sector The adoption of robotics and automation in South Africa, particularly among SMEs, has been slower than in some other parts of the world. This is for a number of reasons, such as financial constraints, integration complexities, lack of technical expertise and accessible training, and the perception that automation is better suited for large scale industries. However, Andrew Crackett, Managing Director of Yaskawa Southern Africa, believes these challenges can be overcome with the right approach. “When working with SMEs, we take the time to understand their needs and objectives. This enables us to provide tailored robotic systems and end-of-arm tooling that are adaptable and scalable, helping businesses grow sustainably,” Crackett says. Yaskawa’s robotics solutions can be adapted to various applications and industries, and this versatility is key for SMEs that often operate with limited budgets and need systems that can grow as their business does. For many SMEs, integrating robotics into existing op erations can be daunting. Yaskawa simplifies the pro cess by offering interfaces that enable easy communi cation between robots and other equipment and, more importantly, with operators. In addition, flexible system configurations allow businesses to expand their robotic capabilities as their needs evolve. “We also offer exten sive support and training, to assist a smooth transition as businesses adopt new technologies,” says Crackett. Overcoming financial constraints Of all the perceived barriers to robotics’ adoption, the initial investment costs of robotics are often a signifi cant concern for SMEs. Crackett says, “In this regard, we’ve partnered with system integrators that offer leas ing plans, helping SMEs afford robotics and automation by spreading the costs over time.” These solutions open the doors for smaller businesses that may not have the capital for a large upfront investment. This approach also

Andrew Crackett, Yaskawa Southern Africa.

optimises the return on investment, making automation a feasible option for more businesses. Additionally, Crackett says, “By working closely with local integrators across specialised industries we’re helping to cultivate a robotics ecosystem in South Africa. We also provide a comprehensive set of training programmes, from basic programming and maintenance to more advanced troubleshooting and operator-specific skills,” he adds. The focus on training is crucial, as one of the biggest challenges facing SMEs in the country is the shortage of workers with any background in operating and maintain ing robotic systems. Yaskawa is helping to build a work force that can manage the technologies and contribute to the broader industrialisation goals of South Africa. Driving economic growth and job creation Acknowledging the concerns that the adoption and inte gration of automation will lead to job losses, Yaskawa has a different view. It sees robotics as a potential driver of economic growth and job creation in South Africa. “Automation can boost productivity and efficiency, and help businesses stay competitive. It’s not just about cutting costs, robotics open up opportunities for employ ees to upskill and reduce physical strain from repetitive tasks,” Crackett says. Yaskawa’s business model is in line with South Africa’s National Development Plan 2030, which aims to improve industrialisation, address the need for job creation, and stimulate economic growth. By investing in local manu facturing and helping businesses adopt advanced tech nologies, Yaskawa aims to play a role in supporting the country’s industrialisation goals. The company is committed to continuing innovation in robotics solutions for the South African market. With this focus, it aims to ensure South African businesses have access to the latest advances in robotics and auto mation, enabling them to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy. □ Yaskawa’s robotics solutions can be adapted to various applications and this versatility is key for SMEs.

8 Electricity + Control DECEMBER 2024