Mechatronics Engineer Contributes to SA’s Drone Technology

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Mr Nkosingiphile Langa has earned his MSc degree in Mechatronics for research focused on developing a prototype for a small aerial robot - known as a Contra-Rotating Ducted Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).

‘These types of drones are efficient, stable and can be used in many applications - from surveillance to delivery,’ explained Langa, who designed and built his functional version using easily available materials and implements.

‘I showed that it’s possible to create advanced flying technology without needing a huge budget or complex equipment,’ he said. ‘The drone I developed can fly with moderate control and stability, and I also found ways to solve challenges like vibrations and power issues.’

Langa’s work helps make drone technology more accessible for local use and development in South Africa.

The young engineer was introduced to aerospace research in the final year of his undergraduate degree at UKZN. ‘I found myself genuinely fascinated by flying vehicles,’ he said. ‘There’s something inspiring about seeing machines that can take to the skies.’

With existing commitments to his undergraduate sponsor, continuing his studies through UKZN’s Scientific Multidisciplinary Advanced Research Technology (SMART) Lab made sense.

‘My supervisor, Professor Riaan Stopforth, has a strong background in working with flying robots, so his guidance and expertise made this journey both enriching and rewarding,’ said Langa, whose investigation fills a gap in drone technology research within South Africa as it offers a practical way for students, researchers and innovators to build and test flying robots without needing expensive equipment. It also adds to the growing body of local expertise in UAVs and robotics, which is crucial for South Africa’s technological development as a country.

‘The knowledge and methods developed during my research can be used by others in the field to improve their own designs or start new projects,’ he explained.

During his MSc, Langa had the opportunity to attend the Digital Tech Summit in Denmark, the largest deep tech conference and exhibition in the country.

Langa plans to continue working in the field of robotics and aerospace, both in research and in industry, and would like to enrol for a PhD in Mechatronics Engineering in the near future. ‘I’m passionate about solving real-world problems through technology and hope to contribute to innovative projects that have a positive impact,’ he said.

He paid tribute to his late father, who encouraged him never to stop learning and to pursue postgraduate studies.

Langa thanked all his family and friends and his supervisors, Stopforth and Dr Daniel Kirkman, for their mentorship and support. ‘I also appreciate the support from my sponsor, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the SMART Lab team at UKZN,’ he said.

Langa recently established Counter Space Learning - a non-profit organisation that focuses on community development. Under this umbrella, an initiative called Tech4Tomorrow introduces learners to robotics and the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

‘I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to study at UKZN and to have been part of such a meaningful research project,’ he said. ‘I completed my undergraduate degree during the COVID-19 pandemic when learning was online, so staying on to do my MSc allowed me to refine my skills in a more hands-on environment and grow further as an engineer.

‘I hope my work inspires other young South Africans to pursue their interests in science and technology, even when the path isn’t easy. With dedication, guidance and passion, we can achieve more than we imagine.

‘If you are thinking of doing an MSc in Mechatronics, look no further than UKZN’s SMART Lab,’ added Langa.

Words: Sally Frost

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini