efa Controls

Press-fit vs soldering: a more efficient interconnection technology

Isabelle Richomme — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 14:10:38 +0000

In an industrial context where reliability and performance are essential, press-fit technology is emerging as a preferred alternative to soldering. Based on a mechanical assembly process that does not involve the application of heat, it offers numerous technical and operational advantages.

Press-fit: the ideal technique for demanding electronic environments

One of the key advantages of press-fit is the absence of heat during the press-fit process. Unlike soldering, this protects sensitive components and reduces the risk of deformation or micro-cracks. This characteristic is particularly critical in demanding electronic environments.

Mechanical reliability is also enhanced. Press-fit pins offer excellent resistance to shock, vibration and thermal cycling, ensuring long-lasting connections. In addition, they feature low contact resistance, allowing high currents to pass through with minimal heating.

Simplification and consistent quality thanks to press-fit

From an industrial perspective, press-fit offers considerable time savings: insertion is completed in a single operation, simplifying the production process and reducing cycle times. Maintenance is also made easier, with components that can be replaced without the need for heat treatment.
Finally, this technology stands out for its repeatability and reduced environmental impact. It guarantees consistent quality, traceability of operations, and eliminates gas emissions or residues associated with soldering.

efa, experts in the design of bespoke PDUs

efa now manufactures its own press-fit boards, enabling it to offer its customers even greater optimisation in the production of its bespoke PDUs. Space savings within the PDU, ease of installation, increased current capacity, and assembly carried out in France in our workshops: the press-fit system represents a real step forward in the implementation of controlled power distribution.

Interested in our press-fit solutions? Contact efa today!

EUROSATORY 2026: On-board innovation in motion

Nadège Huser — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 10:25:31 +0000

efa’s first appearance at Eurosatory

In 2026, our company has reached a major milestone with its very first appearance at Eurosatory 2026, the leading international exhibition dedicated to land and air-land defence and security.
From 15 to 19 June 2026, you were able to see us in Hall 4 – G324.
At a time when operational challenges, personnel protection and technological autonomy are becoming strategic priorities, we have presented practical solutions designed to meet the demands of the most critical environments.

On this occasion, we showcased our solutions for the electrification of mobile machinery and on-board smart systems, designed to address new operational, energy and human challenges.

Electrification of vehicles and PDUs
We support our customers in integrating electric motors and power components tailored to the specific requirements of on-board vehicles.
This expertise enables us to:

improve energy efficiency;
optimise power management;
reduce certain mechanical stresses;
prepare for the hybrid and electric architectures of the future.

Our Power Distribution Units (PDUs) ensure optimised management of electrical distribution on board vehicles.

Teleoperation: safe remote control
Our teleoperation solution enables the remote control of equipment and vehicles in sensitive or high-risk environments, whilst maintaining precise and responsive control over operations.
Our teleoperation solutions also allow for the integration of data from sensors (radar, lidar, vision).

Vision and Predictive Management
As a recognised expert in propulsion systems and anti-collision devices, efa is now developing advanced intelligent navigation solutions tailored to the new requirements of the defence sector.
In particular, our engineers have developed a system capable of anticipating collision risks before they occur. This technology can be used:

as a collision avoidance aid for an on-board operator;
as a component integrated into an autonomous navigation system;
to automatically trigger a deceleration, a diversion or a stop of the vehicle.

Platooning: intelligent convoy driving
Our solutions also enable the implementation of platooning systems, or convoy driving.
Thanks to this technology, multiple vehicles can:

automatically follow a lead vehicle;
adjust their speed in real time;
maintain safe distances;
optimise coordinated journeys.

2DKIT: intelligent detection for mobile vehicles
In operational and logistics environments, the coexistence of vehicles and personnel presents a major safety challenge.
Our 2DKIT solution addresses this issue through an advanced detection architecture capable of integrating:

radar;
LiDAR;
AI-based smart cameras;
infrared vision.

These systems enable the detection of pedestrians, obstacles and danger zones in real time, thereby significantly reducing the risk of accidents.

Press-fit boards: reliability and performance in extreme conditions
The press-fit boards developed by efa offer a reliable alternative to traditional soldering solutions. This technology ensures excellent mechanical strength and enhanced resistance to vibration and temperature fluctuations – essential characteristics for embedded applications. They also help to optimise manufacturing and assembly processes.

Interesting talks with our teams

Our experts were on hand throughout the exhibition to present our solutions, discuss your projects and explore new opportunities in smart mobility together.

We were at Eurosatory 2026 from 15 to 19 June 2026

Stand Hall 4 – G324

Come and see us at iVT 2026 in Cologne

Nadège Huser — Tue, 19 May 2026 10:11:47 +0000

From 10 to 11 June 2026, efa will be exhibiting at the IVT trade fair in Cologne, Germany. This must-attend event dedicated to industrial vehicle technologies is the perfect opportunity to network with industry professionals and showcase our latest innovations. We look forward to welcoming you to our stand in Hall 1 – Stand 3170 to demonstrate our solutions for mobile machinery.

Solutions tailored to demanding environments

PDUs: intelligent power distribution management

Our Power Distribution Units (PDUs) ensure optimised management of electrical power on board vehicles. They enable the intelligent distribution, protection and monitoring of electrical circuits. Thanks to their compact and configurable design, PDUs help to improve the safety, maintenance and overall performance of equipment.

Press-fit cards: reliability and performance in extreme conditions

The press-fit connectors developed by efa offer a reliable alternative to traditional soldering solutions. This technology ensures excellent mechanical strength and enhanced resistance to vibration and temperature fluctuations – essential characteristics for embedded applications. They also help to optimise manufacturing and assembly processes.

Remote operation: safe remote control

Remote operation is a key tool for enhancing operator safety whilst increasing the flexibility and efficiency of operations.

Our teleoperation solutions enable:

remote control of equipment and vehicles
reduced human exposure to hazardous areas
improved operational continuity
integration of sensor data (radar, lidar, vision)

Come and try out teleoperation by controlling an AGV live at our stand!

2DKIT: intelligent detection for mobile machinery

The coexistence of vehicles and pedestrians poses a major risk. To address this, we offer advanced detection solutions incorporating radar, LiDAR and AI-powered cameras.
These systems enable the detection of pedestrians and obstacles in real time, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring greater safety.

Come and have a chat with our teams

Whether you are a manufacturer, integrator or a key player in the off-road industry, we look forward to presenting solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Join us on 10 and 11 June in Cologne, Germany – Hall 1 – Stand 3170
We look forward to seeing you in Cologne!

Remotely operated vehicles in hazardous areas

Nadège Huser — Wed, 13 May 2026 07:33:17 +0000

Mobile machinery and remote operation:
Why carry out remote operations in hazardous areas?

In many industrial and operational sectors, direct human intervention is not always possible — or desirable. Exposure to toxic substances, explosion risks, structural instability or extreme environmental conditions: certain situations make human presence too risky. It is in these situations that remotely operated mobile vehicles come into their own.

What is a remotely operated vehicle?

A remotely operated vehicle is a mobile craft (land, air or sea) controlled remotely by a human operator, usually via a digital interface. Unlike fully autonomous systems, remote operation retains real-time human decision-making, whilst keeping the operator away from danger.
These systems generally combine:

sensors (cameras, LIDAR, radar)
communication systems (radio, 4G/5G, satellite with a latency of 65ms)
and ergonomic control interfaces

Why use remote operation in hazardous areas?

Protecting human life

The main reason is obvious: to avoid exposing operators to hazardous environments. Whether it is a fire, a chemical spill or a contaminated area, remote operation makes it possible to intervene without putting human lives at risk.

Working in inaccessible environments

Some areas are physically difficult to access: collapsed tunnels, the seabed, contaminated areas, or unstable terrain. Remotely operated vehicles can navigate these areas more easily, often thanks to their specialised design (caterpillar tracks, drones, underwater robots).

Maintaining operational capability in extreme conditions

Extreme temperatures, high pressure, toxic atmospheres… these are all conditions in which humans cannot survive for long. Machines, on the other hand, can be designed to withstand these conditions.

The main areas of use

Hazardous industrial environments

In certain factories (chemical, metallurgical), remotely operated vehicles are used in:

areas of extreme heat,
toxic environments,
confined spaces.

Oil and gas sector

At sea, particularly on offshore platforms, remotely operated vehicles are used to:

inspect infrastructure,
carry out repairs,
monitor pipelines.

Defence and mine clearance

The armed forces make extensive use of remote-controlled operations to:

defuse explosives,
monitor hostile areas,
carry out reconnaissance missions.

This significantly reduces casualties.

Nuclear industry

In nuclear power stations or during incidents, for:

inspecting facilities,
carrying out maintenance work,
responding to accidents.

Civil protection and emergency response

Remote-controlled robots are used by rescue teams to:

search collapsed buildings,
locate victims,
handle dangerous objects (e.g. explosives).

They enable rapid action whilst minimising the risks to rescue teams.

The benefits of remote operation

Safety
The operator is kept away from the hazard zone, which drastically reduces the risk of accidents involving people.

Precision and human control
Unlike fully autonomous systems, teleoperation allows for real-time human decision-making, which is essential in complex and unpredictable situations.

Operational flexibility
The same machine can be used in different contexts with software or hardware adaptations.

Long-term cost savings
Fewer accidents, less high-risk training, less heavy protective equipment: the indirect savings are significant.

Real-time data collection
On-board sensors transmit valuable information for decision-making (images, temperatures, chemical measurements, etc.).
Technological advances (5G, artificial intelligence, immersive interfaces) are, however, helping to reduce these constraints. At efa, we offer a bespoke telematics solution.

Remotely operated mobile vehicles have become indispensable tools for carrying out operations in hazardous areas. They enable a balance to be struck between operational efficiency and the protection of human life, whilst paving the way for new operational capabilities.

As technologies evolve, the line between remote operation and autonomy is becoming increasingly blurred, promising systems that are ever more capable, safe and intelligent.

A look back at IFAT in Munich!

Nadège Huser — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 07:07:23 +0000

From 4 to 7 May 2026, efa exhibited at IFAT in Munich, the world’s leading trade fair for water, waste and raw materials management. We were happy to welcoming you to our stand in Hall C5 – Stand 527 to showcase our solutions for mobile machinery.

Solutions tailored to demanding environments

At this year’s IFAT, we showcased several of our flagship products:

PDUs: intelligent power distribution management

Our Power Distribution Units (PDUs) ensure optimised management of electrical power on board machinery. They enable the intelligent distribution, protection and monitoring of electrical circuits. Thanks to their compact and configurable design, PDUs help to improve the safety, maintenance and overall performance of equipment.

Press-fit boards: reliability and performance in extreme conditions

The press-fit boards we have developed offer a reliable alternative to traditional soldering solutions. This technology ensures excellent mechanical strength and enhanced resistance to vibration and temperature fluctuations – essential characteristics for embedded applications. They also help to optimise manufacturing and assembly processes.

2DKIT: intelligent detection for mobile machinery

The presence of multiple people and vehicles in waste collection and processing areas poses a major risk. To address this, we offer advanced detection solutions incorporating radar, LiDAR and AI-powered cameras.
These systems enable the detection of pedestrians and obstacles in real time, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring greater safety in loading bay areas.

Thank-you for your visit!

Whether you’re a manufacturer, an integrator or a player in the environmental sector, we were delighted to show you solutions tailored to your needs.

Link to the IFAT trade fair website: IFAT—Leading Trade Fair Environmental Technologies

Glossary of Vision and Autonomous Navigation

Nadège Huser — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:41:16 +0000

In many industries today, machines no longer simply carry out commands. They ‘see’, analyse, make decisions… and sometimes even move around on their own. Behind these capabilities lie two technological pillars: machine vision and autonomous navigation.

These are topics we explore on a daily basis in our design office, and one thing often comes up: the terminology is quite technical. So here is a simple, practical glossary to bring a bit of clarity to it all.

Autonomous navigation: moving without direct intervention

Autonomous navigation refers to a system’s ability to move around on its own within a given environment.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not a single technology, but a coherent set of components:

sensors (cameras, lidar, radar, GPS, etc.)
software capable of understanding the environment
algorithms that determine the route to follow
systems that physically control the vehicle

It is this combination that now enables logistics robots to move around warehouses, or industrial machinery to assist operators with their manoeuvres.

Insight: making sense of data

Perception is often the first building block of the system.
In practical terms, this is the moment when the machine transforms raw data into actionable insights. An image becomes an obstacle, a shape becomes a person, an area becomes passable or impassable.
This is a crucial step: without reliable perception, all subsequent decisions are fragile.

Location: knowing exactly where you are

An autonomous machine must know where it is at all times.
To achieve this, several technologies can be combined:

GPS or GNSS for global positioning
inertial sensors to track movement
cameras or lidar to orientate itself within the environment
odometry to measure displacement

In industrial environments, reliance on a single sensor is generally avoided. Redundancy is essential to ensure accuracy and robustness.

Machine vision: when machines learn to see

Machine vision encompasses all the technologies that enable a machine to interpret what is happening around it using visual sensors, most commonly cameras.
But capturing an image is not enough. The real challenge lies in the processing. Algorithms analyse these images to extract useful information:

detecting an obstacle in a path
identifying an object or piece of equipment
estimating a distance
detecting a human presence

In practice, this is what enables, for example, a robot to avoid collisions, or a machine to position a load precisely.
Beyond performance, it is also a major driver for improving safety and automating tasks that were previously dependent on human intervention.

Mapping: constructing a representation of the world

Before a machine can navigate intelligently, it must first understand its surroundings.
Mapping involves creating a digital representation of the environment:

accessible areas
fixed obstacles
waypoints

Depending on the situation, this map may be prepared in advance (static) or updated continuously (dynamic).
It is on this basis that the machine will be able to plan its movements.

Sensor fusion: combining data for greater reliability

No sensor is perfect.
A camera can be affected by light conditions, a lidar by certain surfaces, and a GPS by the environment.
Sensor fusion involves combining multiple sources to achieve a more reliable and comprehensive view. For example:

combining a camera and lidar to better detect obstacles
cross-referencing GPS and inertial data to stabilise positioning

This is often what makes the difference between a system that works ‘in the lab’ and one that is truly robust in the field.

SLAM: finding your way whilst exploring

SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping) is a particularly interesting approach.
The idea is simple in theory: the machine builds its map whilst simultaneously determining its own position within it.
This is essential in environments that are:

unknown
changing
unstructured

This technology is used in many practical applications, ranging from mobile robots and drones to certain types of industrial equipment.

Path planning: choosing the right route

Once the machine has mapped its environment and knows where it is, the next step is to decide how to move.
Path planning involves calculating the optimal route, taking into account:

obstacles
the map
vehicle constraints (speed, turning radius, stability, etc.)

It is not just a question of efficiency. It is also a matter of safety and the smooth running of operations.

Remote working: keeping people in the loop

Full autonomy is not always desirable, nor even possible.
Teleoperation allows an operator to take control remotely, using video feedback and dedicated interfaces.
This is particularly useful in:

hazardous environments
complex situations
transitional phases towards greater autonomy

In practice, many systems combine autonomy with human supervision.

Towards smarter… and more useful machines

What we are seeing today is not merely a technological evolution, but a paradigm shift.

Machines are becoming capable of:

adapting to their environment
assisting operators rather than replacing them
improving safety in practical ways
optimising day-to-day operations

Machine vision and autonomous navigation are no longer experimental concepts. They are already at the heart of many projects, and their role will only grow in the years to come.

Understanding these concepts, even at a basic level, already provides a better grasp of the challenges — and, above all, the opportunities.

Euromaritime 2026: join us from 3 to 5 February – Stand G17

Nadège Huser — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:04:26 +0000

Euromaritime has established itself as an essential forum for professionals in the maritime, port and industrial sectors. Digitalisation, automation, operational safety and technological transition are central themes at the event.

Our participation is fully in line with this dynamic, with concrete solutions that meet the constraints of complex and demanding environments.

We will be exhibiting this year and are delighted to be sharing our stand with our partner SICK.

Our solutions in the spotlight

ICK Visionary-B2 AI Lidar: Intelligent 3D Perception

The Visionary-B2 AI from SICK is an intelligent 3D lidar that integrates advanced analysis and on-board processing functions using artificial intelligence.

Its main advantages:

Accurate 3D perception of the environment
Real-time object detection and classification
Reliable outdoor operation
Improved safety and collision prevention

Symeo radars: uncompromising accuracy

Symeo radars provide reliable and ultra-precise measurement of positions and movements, regardless of environmental conditions (rain, fog, dust, darkness).

Key applications:

mooring assistance
positioning of cranes and port equipment
monitoring and securing sensitive areas
optimisation of manoeuvres in confined spaces

Teleoperation: safe remote control

Teleoperation is a major lever for enhancing operator safety while increasing the flexibility and efficiency of operations.

Our teleoperation solutions enable:

remote control of equipment and vehicles
reduced human exposure to hazardous areas
improved operational continuity
integration of data from sensors (radar, lidar, vision)

Come and meet us at stand G17

What you can expect at our stand:

Live demonstrations: Watch live demonstrations of teleoperation and radars in action.
Meetings with our experts and our partner SICK: Meet our teams of experts to discuss your specific needs and the tailor-made solutions we can offer you.
Networking: Take advantage of this opportunity to expand your professional network and explore potential partnerships.

Beyond our products and solutions, this is an opportunity to discuss your projects and help you optimise your mobile machinery. Our experts are on hand to answer your questions, advise you and give you a sneak preview of our latest innovations.

Link to the Euromaritime website: https://www.euromaritime.fr/

Wireless e-stop: A multi-operator emergency stop

Nadège Huser — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:33:49 +0000

In the most demanding industrial environments, safety remains a top priority. On construction sites, in port areas, mines or logistics centres, operators must be able to maintain control of their machines, even from a distance.
The new wireless e-stop radio control meets these needs precisely: streamlined, robust and designed to offer optimal safety, thanks in particular to its unique, simple and reliable emergency stop.

Improve safety on your construction sites

Designed for machines operating in difficult conditions, the wireless e-stop provides a modern solution to safety issues.
Its design focuses on the essentials, making it intuitive to use while ensuring the reliability that is essential in working environments.

Versatile and multi-purpose applications

This radio remote control can be integrated seamlessly into a wide range of equipment:

Mobile cranes and forklift trucks
Construction machinery: excavators, bulldozers, dumpers, etc.
Agricultural and forestry machinery
Mining equipment and tunnelling machinery
Port equipment and logistics terminals
…and many other applications requiring secure remote control

It incorporates the essentials: a single, simple and reliable emergency stop.

Key technical features

The wireless e-stop incorporates reliable technologies to ensure safety:

Radio frequency: 863–870 MHz FHSS
For robust, interference-resistant communication.
CAN receiver
Enabling direct and optimal integration into the electronic architecture of machines.
Certified safety levels: PLd, SIL2
Ensuring risk control in accordance with industry standards.
Multi-operator function
Several radio controls can be associated with the same machine, with each operator remaining able to activate the emergency stop at any time.

A major advantage for AGVs and AMRs

Autonomous vehicles (AGVs/AMRs) are increasingly common in modern industrial environments. However, despite their advanced sensors and AI algorithms, human supervision remains essential in critical situations.

The wireless e-stop therefore provides a layer of safety that is independent of the autonomous system:

It allows any operator, maintenance technician or security personnel to intervene immediately, without relying on the vehicle’s sensors or on-board intelligence.
This enables rapid, clear and decisive action, which is essential when every second counts.

Multi-operator capability: multiple radio controls for the same machine,
each capable of triggering an emergency stop.

Interested? Contact us for a demonstration or a personalised assessment.

Predictive collision avoidance vision and management

Isabelle Richomme — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 11:09:16 +0000

efa is a recognised expert in traction systems and collision avoidance devices. The transition to autonomous navigation is a natural extension of this expertise, enabling the company to offer cutting-edge solutions that are perfectly integrated with its customers’ specific business needs. Based on a customer request, our engineers have developed an intelligent system capable of anticipating collision risks before they occur.

A predictive industrial solution that can be used in several contexts

This solution can be applied as part of a collision avoidance system installed to assist the operator of the machine. While driving the machine, the operator is warned of a risk and can therefore take action. This customised component can also be added to an autonomous navigation programme, enabling industrial vehicles to slow down, swerve, avoid obstacles or simply stop on their own.

How does this predictive analysis work?
The solution developed by efa is based on a kinematic approach, coupled with real-time mapping of the environment.

High-precision LiDAR sensors are used to perform a 3D scan of the operating area. The sensors cover the entire perimeter of interest, providing a complete and up-to-date view of the immediate environment.
At the same time, the machine’s trajectories are continuously analysed. Speed, orientation, steering angle, acceleration or deceleration, and other dynamic parameters are taken into account.
Based on this data, predictive movement modelling is performed, enabling the detection of potential collision scenarios in the short and medium term.
An algorithm cross-references LiDAR information with movement models and trajectory planning to assess, in real time, potential corrective actions to be taken by an operator or autonomously by the vehicle.

What this efa solution offers

The efa solution provides the ability to anticipate collisions by analysing movement dynamics. The benefits are numerous:

1. Enhanced safety in complex or congested environments: by anticipating dangerous trajectories, emergency stops are drastically reduced.
2. Reduction in material damage thanks to fewer collisions or accidental contact.
3. Simplicity of maintenance: fewer critical events or accidents means fewer unexpected repairs and downtime.
4. Operational optimisation: the machine can operate more smoothly, with fewer interruptions, contributing to improved productivity.
5. Adaptability and scalability: custom-designed according to customer specifications, the solution integrates into a modular and scalable architecture (sensors, algorithms, interfaces).

What are its uses?

The efa predictive analytics solution is designed to adapt to a wide range of mobile machinery:
• Industrial machinery
• Agricultural vehicles
• Handling equipment
• Forklift trucks in warehouses or logistics environments

It is scaled according to the specific constraints of each sector (uneven ground, presence of pedestrians, moving obstacles, restricted areas, etc.).

In addition, efa offers not only complete system integration, but also comprehensive assembly of the detection-control-action chain, drawing on its expertise in embedded systems, sensors, and control systems. This comprehensive approach ensures system consistency and optimised performance.

Hello Future, the Orange research and innovation website, is talking about us!

Isabelle Richomme — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 12:09:43 +0000

An innovative efa-Orange partnership

efa France, an equipment supplier for off-road mobile machines, is offering a teleoperation solution that enables industrial machines, such as those used in mines, to be remotely piloted using hybrid 5G/satellite connectivity designed by Orange.

This solution, developed in-house by efa, is based on on-board sensors and a very low latency of around 65 ms. Continuity of service is guaranteed by Orange, which is complementing its cellular networks with satellite, even in areas without coverage.

The result ? A tailor-made solution to improve safety, working conditions and business continuity on industrial sites.

“Many of our customers are faced with recruitment problems for positions involving operations in difficult and potentially dangerous environments. Improving the working conditions of machine operators and reducing the number of accidents are key issues for them, and remote operation can help. It also creates opportunities for people who have not had access to this type of job until now, such as people with reduced mobility. For efa, developing an offer in this promising segment is a logical extension of our activities in the command and control sector.”

Baptiste AUGER

Product Manager - Control Command - efa France

Find out more about this innovative partnership between efa and Orange :

in the article Complementary networks for teleoperation with limitless potential, published on the www.hellofuture.orange.com website on July 16th, 2025
On efa’s Teleoperation webpage