An Innovative Project to Improve the Reliability of Electrical Systems
The CRONOS II project, born from a collaboration between CEFEM Industries, an SME from Ardèche specializing in energy management, and the ESISAR School of Engineering (Grenoble INP - Université Grenoble Alpes), addresses the critical issues of reliability and safety in electrical systems. This partnership combines industrial and academic expertise to develop a major innovation in the field of power capacitors.
A Technological Breakthrough for Capacitors
Capacitors are essential components in electrical systems, playing a key role in energy storage and management. However, their aging can lead to failures or even fire risks. The CRONOS II project offers an innovative solution: a connected capacitor capable of monitoring its remaining lifespan and transmitting this information periodically. This feature enables preventive replacement, reducing failure risks and facilitating the recycling of components before they deteriorate significantly.
CRONOS II builds on the groundwork laid by the CRONOS program, developed with CEA-LETI, where the foundations of predictive monitoring for electrical components were demonstrated.
With the support of ESISAR, CEFEM is developing a technological prototype (TRL 7) that includes:
A Technological Breakthrough for Capacitors
Capacitors are essential components in electrical systems, playing a key role in energy storage and management. However, their aging can lead to failures or even fire risks. The CRONOS II project offers an innovative solution: a connected capacitor capable of monitoring its remaining lifespan and transmitting this information periodically. This feature enables preventive replacement, reducing failure risks and facilitating the recycling of components before they deteriorate significantly.
CRONOS II builds on the groundwork laid by the CRONOS program, developed with CEA-LETI, where the foundations of predictive monitoring for electrical components were demonstrated.
A Technical and Strategic Collaboration
With the support of ESISAR, CEFEM is developing a technological prototype (TRL 7) that includes:
- An embedded system to calculate the remaining lifespan of capacitors.
- Secure data communication via wired or wireless options.
- Consideration of industrial constraints, such as electromagnetic disturbances and challenging environmental conditions.
Power capacitor integrating on-board electronics, a wireless link and a data reading application, from the preliminary feasibility project, CRONOS I
A Project Supported by Regional Stakeholders
The project is backed by the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region and the Tenerrdis Competitiveness Cluster, both committed to supporting innovation in energy transition. This support has structured and accelerated the project’s development while showcasing regional expertise in technology and industry.
A Regional Contribution to the Energy Transition
The prototype will be showcased at PCIM, a leading international event in power electronics. This project highlights the innovative capacity of local businesses and the importance of collaborations to develop solutions that meet the demands of the energy transition.
CRONOS II represents a significant advancement in managing the lifespan of electrical components while integrating practices that enhance reliability and sustainability. Its strong connection with the research from CEA-LETI amplifies the technological scope and impact of this innovation.
A Regional Contribution to the Energy Transition
The prototype will be showcased at PCIM, a leading international event in power electronics. This project highlights the innovative capacity of local businesses and the importance of collaborations to develop solutions that meet the demands of the energy transition.
CRONOS II represents a significant advancement in managing the lifespan of electrical components while integrating practices that enhance reliability and sustainability. Its strong connection with the research from CEA-LETI amplifies the technological scope and impact of this innovation.