Autonomous navigation
Autonomous Navigation Systems for your AGVs
With its expertise in electric powertrains and anti-collision systems, it was only natural for efa to move into autonomous vehicles. Our know-how enabled us to quickly implement navigation systems on our customers’ AGVs.
- Are you looking for a modular and adaptable solution?
- Would you like an easy integration without modifying your existing infrastructure?
- Do you need to optimise your routes and anticipate obstacles?
Advantages of the efa autonomous navigation solution
Better integration into the industrial environment
Our location-based solution does not require any changes to the working infrastructure. By continuously scanning its surroundings and using initial recognition mapping, your vehicle will be able to navigate its way through the environment on its own.
Simplified implementation
Enter your vehicle’s kinematics, make a first run, configure your route and tasks, and you’re done! The dedicated software makes it easy to set up the basics of your AGV application.
Autonomous obstacle avoidance
The navigation system used allows the position of the AGV in relation to objects to be known at all times. It is therefore possible to recognise obstacles and implement an avoidance manoeuvre without interrupting the process in progress. Furthermore, this also applies between several AGVs in the fleet.
Perception and navigation
Perception
Sensor fusion is the backbone of autonomous navigation. It combines a variety of sensors, such as:
- LIDAR for 3D mapping (opposite),
- cameras for vision,
- infrared sensors for obstacle avoidance,
- GPS for location tracking and much more.
This combination provides a comprehensive view of the environment. Data fusion ensures accurate and reliable navigation, paving the way for more efficient autonomous mobile vehicles.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising autonomous navigation for mobile vehicles.
By leveraging machine learning algorithms and neural networks, AI enables autonomous vehicles to make informed decisions in real time.
It improves environmental perception and helps anticipate obstacles, optimise routes and adapt to changing and complex conditions.
How can better perception change the industry?
- Person tracking : Person tracking systems in environments such as healthcare facilities or agriculture improve user safety and mobility by freeing them from heavy loads or the need to operate motorised equipment.
- Driving assistance : Airport and mining vehicles require driving skills and sometimes assistance. Our technologies have been implemented to enhance machine safety and simplify machine positioning.
- Autonomous navigation : Autonomous vehicles (AGVs) operating within factories benefit from solutions that increase their navigation and movement capabilities. Autonomous robots can, for example, transport parts from point A to point B within a factory.
- Object tracking : Object tracking systems have transformed logistics, surveillance and robotics operations, increasing operational efficiency.
- Anticollision :The risk of collisions between vehicles and pedestrians is reduced through the implementation of intelligent people detection. Artificial intelligence and advanced algorithms enable the detection, classification and alerting of humans in danger as well as drivers.
- Mapping : The fusion of sensors coupled with artificial intelligence bricks enables the mapping of complex and changing environments.
Autonomous navigation and remote operation: two complementary solutions
During normal operation, your AGV moves completely autonomously (following routes, avoiding obstacles, navigating your site). But in the event of an unforeseen situation, the remote operation solution developed by efa can solve your problem: an operator remotely controls your vehicle to resolve the situation. You benefit from:
- Increased safety : the operator remains at a distance from hazardous environments, but can intervene if necessary.
- Flexibility : no need to scale AI to handle all extreme cases — humans cover rare scenarios.
- Maintained productivity : the system remains fluid. Rather than a prolonged stoppage, the vehicle switches to remote control mode until the obstacle is cleared.
- Regulatory compliance : certain standards, such as Machinery Regulation 2023/1230, require a level of human control — teleoperation meets this requirement.
Working with efa on your autonomous navigation project means:
➔ Optimised project management
Our experts take care of the complete integration of our technology into your machine.
➔ Simplified mass production
We provide you with all the necessary components once your vehicle is ready.
➔ Ongoing support
We can train you in the use and configuration of your scalable AGV.