OUR HISTORY
50 Years of Innovation in Position Sensors for Defense and Space Applications
For nearly 50 years, Semip – Codechamp has been designing and manufacturing high-precision position sensors for the most demanding applications, particularly in the aerospace, defense and space sectors.
Our story began in 1976 with the integration of a first potentiometer into the Mirage 2000 radar system, marking our group’s entry into critical systems. In the 1980s, Semip – Codechamp developed its first absolute encoders for satellites, becoming a recognized player in space-grade position sensing technologies.
RECOGNIZED EXPERTISE IN SPACE MECHANISMS
Over the years, our group has established itself as a key supplier of encoders for space mechanisms, particularly for AOCS systems. Our sensors are integrated into applications such as:
- SADM (Solar Array Drive Mechanisms)
- CMG (Control Moment Gyros)
- Antenna pointing systems
In the 1990s, Semip – Codechamp developed high-resolution optical encoders for major scientific missions such as the SOHO satellite. This expertise expanded further in the 2000s with the qualification of sensors for programs including Pléiades, TerraSAR, as well as ESA and CNES missions.
With more than 80 space missions and 700 flight models delivered, our group now benefits from a well-established space heritage.
POSITION SENSORS FOR CRITICAL DEFENSE SYSTEMS
At the same time, Semip – Codechamp developed position sensors for military applications integrated into systems such as:
- Stabilized turrets
- Missile seekers
- Radar and optronic systems
These applications require high pointing accuracy, resistance to harsh environments, and continuous operational reliability – all core strengths of Semip – Codechamp.
SEMIP production workshop
High-precision manual assembly,
Dielectric strength testing
SEMIP production workshop
CONTINUOUS INNOVATION IN OPTICAL ENCODERS AND RUGGED SENSORS
For more than four decades, our group has continued to innovate in high-precision optical encoders, magnetic sensors, and position potentiometers.
Technological developments include:
- Sensor miniaturization
- Increased resolution (up to 25 bits)
- Improved angular accuracy (up to ±5 arcsec)
- Development of dedicated ASICs
- Expertise in radiation-resistant environments (up to 200 Mrad)
These advancements enable us to meet the requirements of the most demanding environments, from space to nuclear applications.
SOLUTIONS ADAPTED TO THE NEW CHALLENGES OF NEW SPACE AND DEFENSE
Today, Semip – Codechamp supports next-generation programs, particularly in the New Space sector, by offering compact space encoders, rugged position sensors, and solutions optimized for new performance, cost, and integration constraints.
A LEADING PLAYER IN CRITICAL POSITION SENSING
From the Mirage 2000 to next-generation satellites, Semip – Codechamp has become a leading player in position sensing for critical systems, combining:
- Precision (optical encoders)
- Robustness (magnetic sensors and potentiometers)
- Proven reliability (space heritage)
OUR APPLICATIONS
Defense
Reliable and continuous position measurement for critical systems operating in harsch environments.
LEARN MORESpace
High-precision sensors designed to ensure performance and reliability in space conditions.
LEARN MOREAerospace
Robust solutions delivering accuracy and safety for demanding aerospace applications.
LEARN MOREMotorsport
Fast and accurate sensors designed to optimize performance under extreme conditions.
LEARN MORENuclear
Reliable measurement technologies adapted to sensitive and highly constrained environments.
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