At the technical evening held on 8 October 2025, the SAIMC Johannesburg Branch had the pleasure of being hosted by Proconics Advanced Solutions. The topic of the session was ‘Turning Big 3D Data into Actionable Engineering Insights – Challenges and Smart Solutions’.
The insightful presentation sparked thought-provoking discussions around key questions:
• How do we process vast amounts of data effectively?
• How can we extract meaningful insights?
• How do we get technology to truly work for us?
Despite the availability of smart solutions, engineers often find themselves spending more time cleaning, converting or locating data than performing actual engineering tasks. Data remains siloed in specialised tools, hindering collaboration. To put things into perspective, a typical project in 2014 involved around 20 GB of data, whereas today’s projects average 800 GB, bringing new challenges in data storage and accessibility.
Proconics Earth was introduced as a game-changing solution. This is a cloud-based platform enabling visualisation of large 2D, 3D and point cloud datasets. With browser-based access and AI-driven analysis, it eliminates the need for heavy local software installations.
Proconics demonstrated how their smart tools and data platforms are streamlining collaboration between office and site teams.
The impact is clear:
• Faster design and modification cycles
• Improved accuracy
• Fewer errors due to enhanced contextual understanding
The Johannesburg Branch extends sincere thanks to Robert Theron and PC Annandale for an outstanding and enlightening session.
SAIMC: From the office of the CEO SAIMC
SAIMC
The INSPIRE Conference 2026 brought industry and academia together to explore advances in automation, AI, mechatronics and engineering. It also marked a new direction for the SAIMC as it works to build future-ready engineering talent and strengthen South Africa’s automation industry.
Read more...SAIMC Durban takes to the skies SAIMC
SAIMC
SAIMC Durban members went behind the scenes at the ATNS facility at King Shaka International Airport. The visit offered a fascinating look at the sophisticated technology and highly trained people keeping South Africa’s skies safe.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
At the SAIMC Durban branch September 2026 technology meeting, Werner Das of SICK explored how deep learning is moving industrial machine vision beyond rule-based systems into practical, everyday quality control on the factory floor.
Read more...SAIMC: From the office of the COO SAIMC
SAIMC
The recognition of mechatronics and computer engineering has created both an opportunity and a responsibility. Recognition means little without participation, professional registration without professional conduct, and technical knowledge without the mentorship, implementation and measurable value that industry needs.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
Hendrik Spies of SICK Automation Southern Africa presented at the SAIMC Johannesburg Technology Evening on 12 August 2026, covering the digital journey from condition monitoring to predictive maintenance.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Durban branch hosted S’yabonga Langa, systems performance engineer at eThekwini Electricity, who presented on applying substation automation to improve operational efficiency and service quality in modern power distribution networks.
Read more...SAIMC INSPIRE 2026 brings together industry, robotics and research
SAIMC
The inaugural SAIMC INSPIRE Conference will bring together the industrial automation, robotics and academic communities for two days of presentations, panel discussions and networking, and will explore developments in smart manufacturing, mining, robotics
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
From left: PC Annandale, Ann de Beer, Robert Theron.
printer friendly version