Our R&D initiatives and projects

IKIM is a data science platform specific to predictive rail maintenance, which covers all the phases of retrieval of raw data up to the algorithmic processing and interpretation through the display of the different indicators. We have developed a hybrid, modular approach capable of adapting to a given environment in the rail industry, combining machine learning and analysis in real time. This project is the result of a proposition with Telecom Paris.

On behalf of our customer, we are relying on the ARCADIA method to introduce a systems engineering model which will make it possible to create the future French signal system.

Our experts have also introduced this system modelling process in order to aid the innovative projects for automating trains through Automatic Train Operation (ATO). Our team brings their expertise in high level engineering for complex systems.

In 2015 the smart glass was nominated for the AMI award from the Société du Grand Paris. The combination of embedded systems, video analysis and software development, our interactive pedestrian guidance tool was created for visually impaired persons in a metro environment. It was developed in-house around three technological building blocks: positioning, navigation and the human/machine interface.

The aim of this project is to facilitate the automation of metrological studies. This is done by making it possible to detect, store and transfer acceleration and angular velocity values, as well as the values (jerk, position, etc.) associated with each point on the route, such as positioning. This takes the form of an autonomous smart tag embedded in the transport systems. 

In collaboration with SNCF's Innovation Directorate, this project consists in dimensioning an autonomous power supply. This compises of solar energy panels, power relay batteries and fuel cells for the requirements of the rail network.

In order to avoid errors and misunderstandings that occur during the definition phase at the operability level that can cause major costs and delays within projects. IKOS has developed a MSBE (Model-based Systems Engineering) method linked to a generic, modular model, that makes it possible both to capitalise on rail industry experience and to facilitate re-use, thus significantly increasing the performance of the rolling stock design project. 

Rail traction will experience significant changes and will be electric. Thus, for the networks already electrified, we will see the advent of HVDC (6 or 9kV), "smart" rail grids and "smart" railway stations, some of which will use renewable energy. They will still promote braking energy recovery thanks to reversible substations coupled with optimum energy management in order to increase savings. Different approaches for non-electrified lines are being studied: zero-emission rolling stock (100% power relay battery, or hydrogen + power relay battery) with or without frugal electrification.

The capacity to access various means of communication has become of major importance in today's society. Transport undertakings, such as SNCF and RATP form alliances with telecoms operators to offer their passengers reliable solutions, by adapting to the constraints posed by the location of their transport systems (dead zones, tunnels, etc.).

The concept of "geothermal pile foundations", also known as "geostructures", involves benefiting from the construction of the foundations of a building in order to integrate into it fluid systems to harness the heat in the sub-soil. This process has begun to be introduced in metro projects in Rennes and in Grand Paris.

The main aim of the tram-train is to link city centres and the more distant suburbs. Its technological subtlety consists in the art of adapting the tramway and train infrastructures to each other for the purpose of providing rails and a power supply.

Industrial automatic control systems can be found in all business sectors. Each sector has its different requirements; however, the ranges in existence are similar without being complementary. Nowadays, a requirement for simplicity and speed is making itself felt and optical technology is one of the possible solutions.