Biomarker discovery and diagnostic solution development for cancer, inflammatory and neuropsychiatric diseases

The ALCEN Group has developed an extensive expertise and understanding of RNA editing, a key epigenetic mechanism involved in a large number of pathologies such as cancer, inflammatory and neuropsychiatric diseases. RNA editing is a physiological mechanism consisting in a programmed and reversible mutation of the RNA. It has been documented in the brain, blood, tumors, etc. via numerous publications.

Building on this expertise, the ALCEN Group develops blood diagnostic solutions based on the analysis of RNA editing modifications including diagnostic tests, companion tests and monitoring solutions.

Thanks to its integrated platform EDITECH, which includes molecular biology (in particular Next Generation Sequencing), Artificial Intelligence (Machine Learning), bioinformatics and statistics, the ALCEN Group offers the following services:

• Definition of the clinical question in collaboration with partners/clients/clinicians
• Bibliographic study of the relevance of RNA editing in the given pathology and pathways involved 
• Identification of RNA-editing related biomarkers from a discovery cohort and selection of relevant biomarkers meeting mechanistic-related requirements
• Clinical validation of the selected RNA editing blood biomarkers through the analysis of a validation cohort

Use of RNA editing measurements to select new drug candidates acting on RNA editing and ADARs

The ALCEN Group has developed an extensive expertise and understanding of RNA editing, a key epigenetic mechanism involved in a large number of pathologies such as cancer, inflammatory and neuropsychiatric diseases. RNA editing is a physiological mechanism consisting in a programmed and reversible mutation of the RNA due to ADARs’ enzyme action. It has been documented via numerous publications in the brain, blood, tumors, etc.

The measurement of RNA editing modifications and the understanding of the ADARs’ mechanism allows to develop new targets for drug candidates acting on ADARs.

Due to its in-house platform and its extensive know-how in RNA editing, the ALCEN Group is able to:

• Measure global editing in different pathologies and models (animal, cell lines, etc.)
• Measure local and targeted editing
• Perform an editome analysis to select new RNA editing targets

Pre-clinical evaluation of a drug candidate’s risk of inducing psychiatric adverse side effects in patients

The ALCEN Group has developed an extensive expertise and understanding of RNA editing, a key epigenetic mechanism involved in a large number of pathologies. RNA editing is a physiological mechanism consisting in a programmed and reversible mutation of the RNA. It has been documented via numerous publications in the brain and blood of patients with psychiatric conditions such as depression, suicidal tendencies, etc. It can also be altered by the intake of drugs.

The ALCEN Group has developed EDITOX, a catalogue of cell tests to mimic the impact of drugs on RNA editing in patients and predict adverse side effects like depression/suicide. It was primarily designed for the preclinical phases of drug development to anticipate and as the case may be, prevent psychiatric adverse side effects of drug candidates. A catalogue of 300 molecules has been tested with EDITOX and it has been shown that the test predicts psychiatric side effects with high sensitivity and specificity (>80%).

• Analysis of RNA editing modifications of various targets under different conditions: dosages, short and long term administration, etc.
• Analysis of RNA editing molecular interactions to reverse adverse side effects induced by the drug while maintaining drug curative possibilities in collaboration with InteLigand
• Results provided in the form of a risk assessment: “low risk”, “undefined risk”, “high risk”

Development of rapid diagnostics/detection tests for on-the-field use

The ALCEN Group develops high performance rapid diagnostics/detection tests for various domains: medical (diagnostic tests), well-being, environment, food, etc. The ALCEN Group operates based on customer specifications.

The ALCEN Group offers a high level of customization to meet specifications: 

• Detection of one or several biomarkers, definition of thresholds, etc.
• Use of specific field-proven technologies for different types of biomarkers: LAMP amplification technology for nucleic acids, proprietary SkillCell patented technology (encapsulated biochemical networks) for metabolites or other molecules 
• Detection of biomarkers directly in the test medium (biological – saliva, urine, etc. – or other – waste water, agricultural products, etc.) without an extraction/purification step
• Adaptation of test outcome to specific test needs: fluorescence, colorimetry, interface with smartphones, etc. 
• Adjustment of test usability features to target users’ profiles (healthcare professionals, technicians, general public, etc.)

The ALCEN Group includes development steps from proof of concept to preparation of technical files for regulatory approvals:

• Identification of the relevant biomarkers
• In Silico proof-of-concept, de-risking and pre-optimization
• In vitro validation of proof-of-concept and optimization
• Development of lab prototype including analytical and clinical validation

Some examples of applications include

EasyCOV: Covid-19 salivary rapid and easy molecular test

• Detection of the virus in saliva, a major vector in the spread of this virus à recommended as relevant for SARS-CoV2 diagnosis
• Easy to use – No lab required
• Results within 40 minutes
• Easy to interpret: color change

IDIR: The first Urine test to Prevent T2 diabetes

Metabolic Disorders

• T2 diabetes prevention
• Anticipation of the consequences of obesity
• NASH investigation

Microfluidic Synthesis for Diagnostics & Theranostics

The ALCEN Group masters the technology of microfluidics and designs microfluidic cassettes for radiopharmaceutical production used in diagnostics & theranostics:

• One single microfluidic cassette for all tracers
• Beads in solid phase chambers, vials kit and formula modified from tracer to tracer
• Low volumes, resulting in cost saving on precursors
• Quicker reactions and higher yields

This versatile solution can achieve better, simpler and more targeted production of radiotracers for patients, with disease-specific radiopharmaceuticals.

Some examples of applications include

Core of the iMiGiNE system

• Automated production of PET radiopharmaceuticals, combining a cyclotron and robotized radiochemistry.
• All syntheses are done directly in the cassette, placed inside the radiosynthesis box.

Research & Development

• The cassette is also used in the microfluidic synthesizer iMiDEV, for radiotracer development and production (single doses or small batches), as well as formula creation and process improvement
• Integrated and closed system
• Direct transfer of syntheses developed on iMiDEV to iMiLAB for immediate application to clinical routine

Development, Manufacturing & Maintenance of Heat Exchanger-Reactors with high levels of thermal and safety performances

The ALCEN Group provides disruptive Heat Exchangers-Reactors (HERs) based on the mastering of the Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) assembly process.

This compact Heat Exchanger-Reactor with superior performance is equipped with at least two series of interlocking channels:

• A first series of channels is the site of the chemical reaction. Depending on the reaction, this series of channels can be functionalized by integrating the catalyst;
• A second series of channels extremely close to the first series of channels, but with the same mechanical strength and sealing guarantees, is used to circulate the thermal control fluid.

It provides optimal mechanical strength, coupled with an excellent thermal performance, regardless of whether the reaction is highly exothermic or endothermic.

Alcen has the capacity to perform:

• Design & testing of HERs for highly thermal demanding chemical reactions, for either the energy or chemistry sectors
• Reverse Engineering of old chemical reactors to propose high-performance solutions
• Material knowledge to reach the best solution according to the use, either for handling thermo-mechanical constraints or for chemical neutrality constraints
• Functionalization of the HER by depositing a catalyst within reactive channels to increase the kinetics of the reaction. This functionalization is mastered to improve the developed surface of the catalyst as well as to improve the reactant mass flow through each individual reactive channel
• Designing and manufacturing of adapted thermal insulation according to the operating temperature and power consumption budget
• Commissioning and decommissioning of the HER
• AI performance management
• On-site maintenance and off-site retrofit according to the performance target (MTBF, MTTF…)
• Life-cycle management of the HER to be environmentally responsable

Design and manufacturing according to nuclear codes and standards

The ALCEN Group has extensive expertise in the design and manufacturing of high-technology mechanical assemblies, following French and international nuclear codes and standards. This includes:

• Reconciliation methods for harmonization between different codes and standards
• Complete justification studies according to codes and standards: finite element method calculations for normal/degraded/seismic conditions, mechanical equipment calculations
• Procurement of raw materials, including associated thermal treatments, with stringent requirements on chemical compositions: forged stainless-steel blocks and high resistance bars, metallic alloys, etc.
• Manufacturing strategy aiming for qualification according to codes and standards, including dedicated welding and inspection processes
• Quality Management

Due to its mastery of these techniques, the ALCEN Group is able to address the qualification of components for Nuclear Power Plants and Experimental Reactors.

Some examples of applications include

Guide Tubes for NPP internals

• Reconciliation between ASME and RCC-M codes
• Procurement, welding, forming, inspection & cleanliness according to RCC-M level 3
• Dimensions: 4,3 m × 200 mm square section
• Operating temperature/pressure:  350°C / 155 bar abs

Beryllium reflectors of the RJH experimental reactor core

• Design, calculations, procurement, welding, forming, inspection & cleanliness according to RCC-MRx level 2
• Compliance with European directives and standards
• Weight: 5 tons (more than 35 tons of raw material)
• Dimensions: 3 m x 2,4 m section
• Operating temperature: 80°C

Dismantling arm for the Phenix experimental reactor

• Design, calculations, procurement, welding, forming, inspection & cleanliness according to RCC-MRx level 2
• Compliance with European directives and standards
• Weight: 17 tons
• Dimensions: 2 × 1 × 11 m, 3 mm accuracy on the vertical axis
• Operating temperature: 250°C
• Pressure resistance
• Integrity after seismic activity

Electromechanical and electrohydraulic presses for production of nuclear fuel

The ALCEN Group has a unique expertise in the design, manufacture and maintenance of equipment involved in the production of nuclear fuels. This expertise is particularly developed for the processing of Uranium-Plutonium (MOx), minor actinide and nitride powders.

Due to its experience, the ALCEN Group has developed a large range of electromechanical and electrohydraulic presses, as well as their peripheral devices, for the manufacturing of fuel:

• From the preparation of powders to the sorting of pellets of different sizes and geometries
• For laboratory applications, industrial serial production, in glove boxes or shielded cells
• With a compression capacity of 1000 tonnes and more, to reduce waste volumes

The ALCEN Group also designs and manufactures barrel compacting products and solutions for the nuclear industry, helping to reduce the volume of very low-level waste generated by nuclear installations in order to increase storage capacity and volume. These products and solutions include effluent recovery, containment filtration and radiological atmospheric monitoring.

Some examples of applications include

Press toolings

• Mono or multi punch(es)
• Oil free compensator

Fixed or floating dies

Glove boxes for nuclear applications

A major player in the nuclear industry, the ALCEN Group has extensive experience in the design and manufacture of glove boxes for critical environments, in particular for nuclear facilities. The ALCEN Group produces customized equipment incorporating all nuclear site constraints related to the handling, transfer and transformation of radioactive material in a containment or under a controlled, neutral gas atmosphere.

With this knowledge and expertise, ALCEN is able to take into account all ventilation classes (renewal rate, dynamic containment), static containment classes (leak rate) and other specifics of the application (e.g. materials in fluid, gas or solid form), especially in glove box applications calling for mechanical processes, fluids or gases imposing specific operating constraints (T°, P, PH, H2, O2).

Whether on new installations or on dismantling projects, CHAMPALLE is involved in process and equipment nuclearization for contaminating environments, and manages maintainable and decontaminable mechanical and electromechanical systems and processes (conveying, handling, machining, characterization, etc.).

Some examples of applications include

Integration of existing systems

Integrated automated functions including high availability safety automation up to SIL3+

Containment securing

• Glove and bag ports
• Containment enclosures
• Sealed double door systems
• Remote handling tools

Pressure and Vacuum Vessels for nuclear and scientific applications

The ALCEN Group has extensive expertise in the design, manufacturing, assembly and testing of medium to large dimension pressure (a few hundred bar) and ultra high vacuum (10^-9 mbar) vessels made of aluminum, stainless steel, titanium or complex alloys. This includes:

• Design and manufacture following internationally recognized codes and standards (CODAP, EN13445, ASME sec. VIII…)
• Machining with an accuracy of a few hundredths of a millimeter for small and medium sized items, a few tenths of a millimeter for large sized items (up to 10 m)
• Assembly using TIG, electron-beam or laser welding
• Dimensional, dye penetrant, pressure and helium leak tests performed by qualified inspectors (EN ISO 9712 levels 2 and 3)

Due to its mastery of these techniques, the ALCEN Group is able to provide its customers with complete vacuum systems including, in addition to vessels, the necessary pumping system, valves and instrumentation and control systems.

Some examples of applications include

Pressure vessels for defense and aerospace applications

Tanks for the chemical industry

Pressure and vacuum vessels for nuclear applications (fission and fusion)

Vacuum vessels for superconducting particle accelerators

Vacuum vessels and turnkey systems for high power lasers

Control command systems in hostile environments

The ALCEN Group has extensive experience in the design and manufacturing of control command systems for critical applications such as those in the oil&gas, nuclear or military sectors. Due to its experience, the ALCEN Group has developed customizable turn-key designs for automated systems based on PLCs, control and monitoring means (consoles) and a man-machine interface to optimize supervision.

The two main areas of expertise that set the ALCEN Group apart are :

• Management of high availability safe automation using redundant Safety PLCs up to SIL4
• Management of equipment for Explosive Atmospheres

Some examples of applications include

Stand-alone equipment or large-scale distributed systems

High availability due to integrated redundancy

Simplified architectures

Reduced footprint

Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) Assembly Process

The ALCEN Group masters the Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) assembly process between different types of materials: Stainless Steel, copper, Inconel, Eurofer, Beryllium and complex alloys.

• Machining of mechanical parts with a few micrometers of dimensional accuracy and a few hundredths of a micrometer of geometrical accuracy
• Surface preparation, treatment and cleaning before assembly of the equipment to be pressed
• Installation in special air-tight containers and tightness test before HIP process
• Definition of HIP parameters and oversight of the subcontracted HIP operations
• Extraction of the pressed equipment from the HIPed container
• Dimension checks and non-destructive testing (Ultrasonic, X-ray) after HIP

Due to its mastery of this HIP process, the ALCEN Group is able to address various applications requiring high-performance bonds between materials with different mechanical characteristics. This process guarantees high-level mechanical properties: mechanical resistance and thermal behaviour.

Some examples of applications include

Internal equipment of nuclear fusion reactors

• Thermal transfer panels
• Thermal protection panels

Tank liners for applications in the chemical industry

Particle accelerator sub-system components

• Targets, panels

Edge-to-edge Laser Welding Process

The ALCEN Group masters the pulsed wave and continuous wave laser welding processes for edge-to-edge assembly.

The materials used are:

• Metallic plates a few tenths of a millimeter thick and formed in 3 dimensions
• Titanium, Stainless Steel and complex alloys

The processes applied meet specific requirements as follows:

• Cutting and machining of unitary plates with an accuracy of a few hundredths of a millimeter
• Definition of parameters for laser welding
• Operation management of the pulsed wave or continuous wave laser welding phases
• Dimension checks and non-destructive testing (Ultrasonic, X-ray) after welding

Due to its mastery of these welding processes, the ALCEN Group is able to address various applications requiring edge-to-edge joints on metallic plates. This process makes it possible to reach a high level of mechanical resistance to traction (better than the material itself), a high level of tightness (leakage rate better than 10^-9 mbar/l.s), and good robustness in thermal environments (-50°c to 150°c), vacuum environments (10^-6 mbar) and under pressure (a few hundred bar).

Some examples of applications include

Accumulator for aeronautics and space applications

Tanks for the chemical industry

Complex functions of thermal isolation

Barometric capsules and bellows with welded cups and washers

Subsea buoyancy materials

The ALCEN Group masters the techniques and constraints applied to the formulation, engineering and manufacturing of high-performance syntactic foam material that:

• is designed to operate at deepwater depths of 1,000-12,000 msw with low and ultra-low density
• has low manufacturing tolerance to maximize uplift
• has excellent water ingress resistance and negligible long-term buoyancy loss
• possesses high mechanical properties including hydrostatic collapse pressure safety factors

Foam blocks may be bonded to form larger structures with a specific glue process, machined to final shape and coated to protect surface from impact.

Due to the mastery of these techniques, the ALCEN group is able to address applications and markets requiring materials that are both light and resistant, with optimal performance in custom subsea products for deepwater applications.

Hydro-forming technique for seamless pipe fitting manufacturing

The ALCEN Group masters the techniques and constraints involved in manufacturing seamless buttweld fittings. Used in applications with the most stringent constraints in terms of safety and reliability, shaped components are made from seamless tubes using an exclusive patented hydro-formed and/or cold-formed process.

• Standard Tees, elbows, concentric and eccentric reducers, other special geometric shapes
• Standard and special dimensions (Outer diameters from 1/8’’ to 8’’, all thicknesses) in small and medium series
• Materials: stainless steel, nickel alloys, copper-nickel alloys, carbon steel
• Use of the same batches of pipes as those installed at the inlet and the outlet of the fittings
• Optimized conservation of material’s metallurgical and mechanical properties
• Compliance with internationally recognized codes and standards: EN, ASTM, RCC-M, RCC-MX…

Thanks to its mastery of these techniques, the ALCEN Group is able to address various applications in the Aerospace, Defense, Nuclear, Petrochemical and Thermal Power Generation sectors.   

Some examples of applications include

Buttweld fittings for nuclear power plants

Components for surface ships and submarines

Hydro-formed components for jet engines

Accessories for hazardous applications

Collectors and Y-couplings for thermal power generation

Clean room assembly of large and complex systems for scientific applications

The ALCEN Group has an extensive expertise in the assembly of large dimension multi technology systems with stringent cleanliness constraints. Such operations can either be performed on user sites, where dedicated teams can be deployed, or within one of the clean rooms established and owned by the ALCEN Group:

• 1800 m² ISO5 and ISO8 middle scale (3m height) clean room; 600 m² ISO8 large scale (9 m height) clean room
• Capacity to assemble systems up to 10 m long, 5 m wide and 5 m high
• Immersion and spray washing machines
• Dimensional and geometrical measurement capabilities: Coordinate measuring machines and laser trackers
• Helium leak testing
• Optical measurement capabilities including 633 nm and 1053 nm interferometers
• Optical and electrical cabling capabilities

With such expertise and means, the ALCEN Group is able to address various applications in the field of large scientific instruments, in particular high power lasers, particle accelerators and nuclear fusion experiments.

Some examples of applications include

High power lasers

• Assembly of opto-mechanical sub-assemblies for the French MegaJoule Laser (LMJ) program
• Assembly of the ELI-NP gamma source interaction chamber

Nuclear fusion experiments

• Assembly of the ITER MITICA ion beam source

Particle accelerators

• Assembly of the XFEL cryomodules

High precision machining of large dimension mechanical infrastructures in air-conditioned workshops

The ALCEN Group masters the techniques and constraints related to high precision machining of large dimension mechanical components and infrastructures. This operation is done in a special air-conditioned workshop, maintaining the high stability of parts throughout the entire machining process. Main characteristics are:

• Workshop surface: 3000 m²
• Temperature: 20°C ± 1°C
• Lifting capacities: 30 tons (hook height:12 m)
• Milling capacities: up to 10 m (length) × 3 m (width) × 3 m (height)
• Turning capacities: up to 5 m diameter, 3.5 m high
• Accuracy of a few hundredths of a millimeter
• Materials commonly machined: aluminum, copper, stainless steel, complex alloys
• Geometrical and dimensional control capacities: Coordinate Measuring Machines up to 3 m (length) × 2 m (width) × 1.6 m (height); laser trackers

The expertise and means of the ALCEN Group makes it possible to meet the most demanding specifications in the Aerospace, Defense, Large Scientific Instruments and Nuclear sectors.

Some examples of applications include

Molds for aerospace applications

Mechanical infrastructures and opto-mechanical components for high power lasers

High precision components for nuclear applications (fission and fusion)

Vacuum vessels for large scientific instruments

Equipment made from Beryllium

The ALCEN Group masters the techniques and constraints applied to the manufacturing and integration of mechanical parts made from Beryllium and Beryllium alloy, namely:

• Machining expertise with an accuracy of a few micrometres and a few hundredths of a millimetre of geometrical accuracy, for small and medium sized items
• Surface treatment after machining: chemical attack, cleaning, surface control (smearing)
• Working in specially conditioned workshops (equivalent to clean rooms)
• Application of environmental and regulatory rules regarding Beryllium use
• Health and Safety rules for the staff in charge of Beryllium machining

Due to their mastery of these techniques, the ALCEN Group is able to address applications and markets requiring materials that are both light and highly resistant mechanically and thermally.

Some examples of applications include

Optronic systems embedded on civil and military aircrafts

• Beryllium mirrors embedded in optronic sight systems
• Mechanical supports for optics embedded inside optronic pods

Medical applications

• Beryllium windows transferring X-rays generated by cyclotron

Internal wall of nuclear fusion reactors

• Thermal shield panels

Astronomy and astrophysics

• High-performance mirrors embedded on satellites and space telescopes
• Supporting platforms for embedded scientific instruments

Beryllium reflectors in the core of nuclear reactors

Precision rotating electromechanisms for specific and demanding environments

The ALCEN Group has extensive know-how and expertise in the engineering, manufacturing and integration of rotating electromechanical assemblies embedded in systems requiring performance, precision and resistance to severe environments.

• Mastering key skills in ball bearing technology for high precision mechanisms
• Integration of electromechanical components, such as bearings, motors and encoders, at the early stages of the design makes it possible to obtain compact and precise assemblies
• Industrial efficient processes to build complex assemblies, in particular mounting in clean rooms
• Optimization of the geometric and dimensional precision of the equipment to improve the overall dimension, mass and rigidity performance
• Calculation models specifically developed to ensure a high level of reliability in predicting the behaviour of complete systems in harsh environments
• Design, industrialization, manufacturing and assembly of complete electromechanisms

Due to its mastery of this expertise, the ALCEN Group is able to address applications requiring systems that are  accurate, reliable and efficient. The mechatronic systems developed meet the most demanding of customer specifications and are adapted to the needs of each application.

Some examples of applications include

Optronic systems

• Motion of electro-optical gyrostabilized platforms
• Orientation of optronic pod targeting systems
• Gimbal for seekers

Servomotors for positioning electro-optics on UAVs, antennas, robotic systems

Pointing mechanisms

• Gimbal for communication antennas
• Radar motion control platforms

Space electromechanisms

• Solar Array Deployment Mechanisms
• Mechanisms for Space telescopes

Brazing of Dissimilar Materials in a Controlled Atmosphere

The ALCEN group has a long-standing expertise in the brazing of dissimilar materials. This technical process ensures a metallurgical continuity between two materials by means of a filler alloy called brazing in furnaces or by induction soldering.

• Metal-to-metal high-temperature brazing: furnace brazing with temperatures from 700°C to 1,000°C; dry H₂ atmosphere or secondary vacuum; silver and copper brazing base
• Ceramic-to-metal brazing: furnace brazing with temperatures from 800°C to 1,000°C; humid H₂ atmosphere or secondary vacuum; basis of silver-copper brazing
• Reactive brazing: furnace brazing with temperatures from 700°C to 900°C; secondary vacuum atmosphere; basis of silver-copper-titanium brazing

Some examples of applications include

Medical Applications

• X-ray tube enclosures for medical scanner equipment, linear accelerator components, electron microscope components, etc.

Non-destructive testing

• Electron guns, linac beamlines, RF windows, conversion targets, etc.

Highly critical active medical devices

The ALCEN Group has extensive expertise in the design, industrialization, manufacturing and life management of highly critical active electronic medical devices, namely mastering:

• Standard guidelines for high class medical device hardware design and certification
• Standard guidelines for medical device software design and certification
• Accelerated aging tests for reliability characterization of electronic components
• Special process manufacturing

This know-how powers the ALCEN Group’s ambition to become the reference in Europe for the design and production of highly critical devices.

Some examples of applications include

Designs thanks tothrough technical expertise in:

• Medical electronics
• Software (embedded, HMI)
• Mechanical
• Thermal
• Radio Frequency

Implantable medical devices (class III) manufacturing:

• Epilepsy monitoring
• Electronic artificial heart
• Heart pump
• Urinary incontinence
• Prosthesis monitoring

Safety and Reliability Analysis

The ALCEN Group has extensive expertise in the domain of Safety and Reliability analysis.

This expertise is developed especially for hypercritical equipment and it addresses the following competences:

• Recurrent development of equipment with very high levels of reliability and safety requirements (failure rate better than 10^-6), for lifetimes of up to 300 000 operating hours
• Original methodology for identifying aging phenomena
• Predictive computation tools
• Perfect command of the standards governing these safety and reliability analyses

Due to its mastery of this expertise, the ALCEN Group is able to address various applications, especially in the domains of Defense, Aeronautics and Nuclear.

Some examples of applications include

Embedded safety equipment

Valves

Disconnectors and disruptors

Long-term reliability analyses

FMECA and Fault Tree analyses applied to complex systems

Digital Twins for Complex Systems

The ALCEN Group masters an Innovative Technology (DeepLinks^TM) to build a “Digital Twin” for Highly Complex Systems. The DeepLinks approach is based on a data science process flow:

• All the available data is collected, ingested and cleaned in real time
• A Digital Twin is built by connecting all the data obtained
• Once transformed into a Digital Twin, data turns into valuable information

Due to their mastery of this technology, the ALCEN Group is able to propose “custom-made” apps to visualize trends, analyze problems and deploy predictive maintenance.

Systems Modelling

The ALCEN Group masters various approaches to modeling systems by using a global approach (in comparison with a local or 3D approach) and is able to simulate the performance of systems:

• Lightweight models for short time calculation
• Complete/global models for sensitivity analyses
• Multi-parameter models for optimum technical & economic calculation
• Naturally multi-physical approach

  This global modeling approach is performed by using dedicated and standardized software:

• DYMOLA by Dassault Systèmes
• AMESim by Siemens
• FloMASTER by Mentor

HF obsolescence treatment – Life extender services

The ALCEN Group masters the techniques and constraints applied to the fit-form-function replacement of obsolete HF radio communication sub-systems, namely:

• Re-designing a complete HF radio communication sub-system including HF transceivers, tuning units and HF antennas
• Offering services applicable to military surface vessels and submarines
• Using latest digital technologies
• Allowing easy integration into most current Combat Management Systems (CMS)
• Taking advantage of all technological developments performed on new programs for submarines and surface vessels

Due to their mastery of these techniques, the ALCEN Group is able to address HF radio communication applications and markets where a life extension solution is preferred to a complete substitution of the existing HF sub-system. (Such a substitution would involve brand new products that are generally not compatible with the existing CMS and would require deep and costly modifications.)

Some examples of applications include

HF sub-system for surface vessels

• HF transceiver
• Antenna Tuning Unit
• HF antenna

HF sub-system for submarines

• HF transceiver
• Watertight Antenna Tuning Unit
• Telescopic HF whip antenna

Life extension services

The ALCEN Group develops an expertise in the domain of Life Extension Services for systems, subsystems or components. It addresses the following capabilities:

• Obsolescence Management, in particular:
  • Active monitoring of electronic board bill of material
  • Secured storage of critical systems and components, in nitrogen environment
  • Advanced incoming inspection for electronic components including construction and reliability checks
  • Reverse-engineering and remanufacturing of optic, mechanic, electronic, electric and hydraulic parts
• Retrofit & modernize complex systems, in order to upgrade performance or increase service life
• In-Service Support for systems including predictive, preventive and corrective maintenance

Due to its mastery of this expertise, the ALCEN Group is able to support all demanding applications in the Aerospace, Defense, Naval, Medical, Nuclear or the Oil & Gas markets.

Some examples of applications include

Optronic systems

• Modernization of Optronic Fire Control Systems
• Retrofit of survey camera

Underwater systems

• ROV In-Service support
• Modernization of ROV lighting system

Mechanic spare kit for radar overhaul

Obsolescence management

• Re-designing of HF antenna tuning unit for submarines
• Secured storage of integrated circuits for aerospace companies

High-Energy X-ray Beam Non-Destructive Testing

The ALCEN Group masters the design and manufacture of high-energy non-destructive testing systems for dense and thick objects.

This turnkey X-ray imaging system includes:

• S-band or X-band linear accelerator, with energies from 3 to 9 MeV, to produce X-ray beams
• 2D imaging and 3D tomographic system, including a software for image analysis
• Manipulators to control the movements of the linear accelerator, the object, or the flat panel for precise image acquisition

This solution can replace high-risk and hardly available radioactive sources used today and can be moved close to the inspected object for facilitated use. The system can address various applications in the fields of Defense, Industry and Aerospace.

Some examples of applications include

Integration of an inspection system in a production line

• Inspecting several parts at the same time

Defense applications

• Missiles, turbine blades, casting inspection

Cargo Inspection

Aerospace applications

• Rocket composite structures and filler systems, space shuttle components
• Aircraft structure radiography

Industry applications

• Inspection of large cast parts (i.e., ship propellers or engine blocks)

Fault detection technology

The ALCEN Group is an expert in Non-Destructive Technology (NDT) based on Infrared thermography:

• Thermal disturbance is applied by application of a brief and intense energy pulse
• The resulting decreasing disturbance is observed by using an IR camera
• The pictures obtained are processed by exclusive algorithms
• Faults within the observed object are visualized and characterized

Having mastered these techniques, the ALCEN Group is able to propose “custom-made” systems composed of an excitation source, an IR camera and a dedicated software to study defects.

Opto-mechanics and mechatronics

The ALCEN Group masters the techniques and constraints applied to the design, manufacturing, qualification, integration and on-site commissioning of custom-made opto-mechanical systems for operation within a large spectrum of frequencies (infrared to gamma rays). With this expertise, the ALCEN Group is able to address applications requiring:

• Fine positioning in six degrees of freedom of optics (mirrors, crystals and lenses)
• Large dimensions of up to a few meters
• High precision and stability down to the nanometer scale
• Dynamic shaping with optics
• Efficient optical cooling

In addition, the ALCEN group brings complementary know-how and capabilities related to control electronics & software, UHV technology (< 10^-9 mbar), clean environments (routinely up to ISO 5) and non-magnetic construction (µr < 1.06), allowing to meet the most stringent requirements for high power lasers, free electron lasers, synchrotron light sources, gamma beam sources and large telescopes.

Some examples of applications include

High power lasers

• Laser amplifying systems and transport lines of the French MegaJoule Laser (LMJ)
• Adaptative mirrors and associated control command systems for the LMJ

Large telescopes

• Metallic mirrors and associated support structure for the CTA project (high energy gamma ray astronomy)

Free electron lasers and synchrotron light sources

• High heat load (M1) mirror systems
• Kirkpatrick-Baez (KB) systems
• Double Multilayer Monochromators

Gamma beam sources

• Laser – electron interaction chambers

Innovative design of optronic systems in harsh environments

The ALCEN group has extensive know-how and expertise in the design of optronic systems for applications in severe environments: temperature, shocks & vibrations and electromagnetic.

In order to significantly increase the reliability of the systems, our approach consists in both replacing all the mechanisms and more generally all the moving parts traditionally used in optronic systems by innovative solutions, and in minimizing the number of product parts. This approach makes it easy to ensure an excellent electrical continuity between the different parts and consequently optimal performance against electromagnetic attacks.

Validated by qualification tests demonstrations of reliability which incorporated the real environmental conditions of the products, ALCEN’s acquired expertise applies particularly to the following solutions:

• LCD-based electronic iris to replace mechanical iris
• Passive athermalization of optics to eliminate focusing mechanisms
• Multi sensor concept combined with fixed focal length lenses to replace motorized zooms
• Consideration of EMC constraints in the design from the very start of the preliminary design phases
• Dedicated real-time signal processing

Some examples of applications include

Modules and cameras

• Observation
• Driving assistance

Multi sensor systems

• Critical area surveillance
• Perimeter protection of vehicles or ships

Active surveillance systems

• Critical area surveillance
• Threat detection and identification

Image sensors and laser illuminators

The ALCEN group has extensive know-how and expertise in the field of image sensors and laser illuminators operating in the visible spectrum.

This expertise allows for the best levels of performance to be obtained of ranges and makes it possible to increase the vision systems’ fields of use in conditions of poor visibility.

This expertise is based on intensive market surveillance in view of the rapid technological developments in these fields. This surveillance allows us to identify the most promising components which will then be characterized according to our metrological standards and also for those which correspond to the requirements of our customers integrated into products.

This expertise covers the following technological fields

• Image intensifier tube
• CMOS sensors
• Laser sources: diode, VCSEL
• Fast power transistors
• Pulsed illumination synchronized with sensor exposure
• Sensor control for very short exposure times
• Dedicated real time signal processing

Some examples of applications include

Modules and cameras

• Long range observation
• Driving assistance

Multi sensor systems

• Critical area surveillance
• Perimeter protection of vehicles or ships

Active surveillance systems

• Critical area surveillance
• Threat detection and identification

Maintenance of mechanical, opto-mechanical and electromechanical systems

The ALCEN Group has gained extensive experience in performing preventive and corrective maintenance works and services thus complementing its supply of components and systems, namely:

• Definition of maintenance strategies
• Definition and implementation of maintenance procedures and tooling
• Management of obsolescence, re-engineering of components and systems
• Deployment of multidisciplinary teams on customer sites
• Maintenance of control systems, electronics, high voltage systems and instrumentation
• Maintenance of mechanical, UHV and optomechanical systems, in particular in clean environments (up to ISO5)

With this expertise, and complementary skills in design, manufacturing, assembly and on-site commissioning, the ALCEN Group is able to cover the entire life cycle of components and systems for a variety of applications and markets such as Defense, Large scientific instruments and Nuclear energy.

High-power microwave equipment

The Alcen Group has extensive knowledge in the development of high-power microwave equipment tailored to customer specifications. This expertise includes the design, development and testing of the following complex subsystems:

• Pulsed Power modulator: Marx generator, Linear Transformer Driver
• Microwave source: BWO, vircator, milo, magnetron
• Solid state amplifiers: GaN (gallium nitride) technology
• Antenna: horn, dipole, pixel antenna

With such expertise, the Alcen Group is able to address various applications, especially in the defense and security domains, for example:

• Evaluation and testing of vulnerability to electromagnetic fields: civilian equipment, standard military equipment
• Development of operational high-power microwave equipment to disrupt the on-board electronic systems of different vehicles: counter drone solutions, vehicle stopper systems

Some examples of applications include

Evaluation and vulnerability testing to electromagnetic fields

• Civilian equipment
• Standard military equipment

Development of operational high power microwave equipment to disrupt vehicle on-board electronic systems

• Counter drone solutions
• Vehicle stopper systems

RF Component Designing, Scaling and Manufacturing

The ALCEN group has historical expertise in the design, manufacturing and assembly of radio-frequency components used in various applications. This know-how allows the group to work on new designs as well as existing ones:

• For new designs: RF scaling with HFSS (high frequency structure simulator) software, Thermal simulation including the choice of material involved, prototyping (low- and high-level RF testing) and manufacturing
• For adaptive designs: adapt an existing design to manufacturing constraints while maintaining RF performance and improving performance by redesign

Due to its mastery of RF component designing, scaling and manufacturing, the ALCEN group manufactures components for beamlines and high-power RF couplers for large scientific instruments.

Some examples of applications include

Accelerating Waveguides

• Designing and manufacturing a range of S to X band accelerating waveguides using different modes. They accelerate electrons generated by the gun, via the injected RF field.
• The entire manufacturing process takes place internally due to a strong vertical integration (machining, brazing, RF tuning, TIG and laser welding, leak tests).
• The RF calculations and thermal and dynamic beam simulations are also done in-house.
• This is used for a wide range of different types of Linac.

Radio-Frequency Window

• ALCEN controls all of the manufacturing stages, from design to final testing.
• RF windows allow the RF power to pass from the source to the RF device (accelerator waveguide, antenna, etc.) while isolating the ultra-high vacuum area from the SF6 atmosphere. The isolation is done via ceramic  brazed in a metallic part.
• For higher powers, a layer of TiN is deposited on the blank side of the ceramic to avoid the effects of multipactoring.

Remotely-operated manual welding systems

The ALCEN Group has extensive expertise in welding parts and components made out of a wide range of metallic materials. Such operations may have to be performed in severe environments: limited space, high temperatures, radioactive radiations, risks of anoxia. To address these issues, the ALCEN Group has developed a remotely operated TIG welding solution: the welder controls the movement of the welding torch and the addition of the metal wire via a robotic arm. Similar in concept to tele-operated surgery or tele-operated handling in nuclear hot cells, this technique offers many advantages:

• It alleviates the burden of strenuous tasks and limits risks for operators
• It enables welding in configurations where manual or automatic welding is not possible
• It eliminates the need for exclusive skills and experience: junior operators can perform perfect welds being advised and supervised by a professional welder
• It allows for real-time monitoring of all welding parameters
• It improves quality of the welds, even for skilled operators
• It improves costs and productivity for small series production

With this expertise, the ALCEN Group is able to address applications and markets with harsh environmental and economic constraints in particular in the sectors of Defense, Large scientific instruments, Nuclear energy, Chemistry and Industry.   

Some examples of applications include

Defense

• Reconstitution of stainless steel coating inside pressure vessel

Nuclear energy

• Butt welding of a 10” valve to pipes close to high radiation level area

Underwater Unmanned Systems

The ALCEN Group masters the techniques and constraints applied to the design and manufacturing of light underwater unmanned vehicles of large endurance (months) aimed at navigating in large areas between surface and deep-water depths of 1,000 or 3,000 or 6,000 meters, namely: 

• Light mechanical structures resistant to deep water pressure and corrosion 
• Embedded electronics and real-time software with very low power consumption 
• lntegration of a wide portfolio of underwater sensors for establishing the right payload for the very specific needs of the mission 
• Remote telemetry allowing collected data and piloting orders to be transferred between shore and vehicles
• Webserver piloting site with enhanced functionalities for a user-friendly operation at sea and facilitated storage and processing of the collected data 

Due to their mastery of these techniques, the ALCEN Group is able to propose these Underwater Unmanned Systems as a Turnkey Product or as Services fully performed by a dedicated team taking care of each step of the mission including data processing and analyzing. 

Some examples of applications include

Ocean and maritime sciences

• Accurate underwater current measurement
• Passive acoustic monitoring for biodiversity or human activity impact assessments 

Resource assessment for fisheries

• Monitoring of climate change effects on fish resources 

Offshore oil & gas

• Natural seeps detection of dissolved hydrocarbons and methane for pre-exploration de-ris king 
• Passive acoustics recording for mammal assessment before, during and after underwater works 

Naval defense

• Acoustics intelligence gathered by passive acoustics recording (very si lent vehicles)
• Rapid Environmental Assessment for enhancement of short-term predictive model of underwater acoustic propagation 

Robotic systems for micrometric precision metrology

The ALCEN Group has decisive knowledge in the development of robotic systems intended for metrology techniques requiring high precision and stability. This expertise includes the design, manufacturing and qualification, the on-site commissioning and the maintenance in operational condition of integrated and tailor-made systems.

With such expertise, the ALCEN Group is able to address various applications in scientific and industrial domains, for example:

• Automatic Multiphysics controls
• Inline Non-Destructive Testing
• In-situ monitoring and repair

Some examples of applications include

Automated monitoring of air pollution by nanoparticles

• Non-destructive analysis of trace elements using grazing incidence X-ray fluorescence
• ISO 5 clean under vacuum environment

Detection of particulate pollution and cleaning

• In-situ inspection of long annular structures of variable sections
• Equipped with different types of sensors

High precision positioning of X-ray detector

• Scientific Research at Synchrotron Facilities

Robotic systems in cryogenic environments

The ALCEN group has extensive know-how and expertise in the design of robotic systems in cryogenic environments. These automated solutions — greatly improving efficiency, safety and process quality — are entirely adapted to the customer's needs.

These systems assume the task of completing time consuming and delicate manipulations, and provide best-in-class process reliability and user-friendliness:

• The robotic platform is specifically designed for very low temperatures, radiation environments and a clean atmosphere
• Users are assisted by a field-proven control software, with a tailor-made human-machine interface
• Tools are developed for performing operations or handling critical items (e.g. biological samples)
• Sensors are integrated to reach the highest level of reliability and performance
• Automated maintenance procedures and a remote maintenance gateway are provided to maximize the availability rate of the system

With this expertise, the Alcen Group is able to address various applications in the fields of:

• Life sciences
• Pharmaceutical industry
• Health

Some examples of applications include

Robotic sample changer for X-ray crystallography at Synchrotron beamlines

• Structural biology
• Drug design

Fully-automated platform for the storage of biological samples in cryogenic biorepositories

• Biomedical research
• Personalized medicine

Real-time signal processing under power consumption constraints

The ALCEN group has extensive know-how and expertise in real-time signal processing under power consumption constraints in order to improve the image quality and performance of vision systems operating in the visible spectrum. This expertise is based on academic partnerships, supported by the DGA in the framework of CIFRE-DEFENSE theses.

The expertise acquired covers the following areas, for embedded applications with constraints in terms of consumption volume and latency:

• Automatic adjustment of vision systems according to the scene and observation conditions
• Correction of optical defects
• Reduction of vision system noise
• Multi-sensor fusion
• Automatic detection and tracking

Some examples of applications include

Modules and cameras

• Observation
• Driving assistance

Multi sensor systems

• Critical area surveillance
• Perimeter protection of vehicles or ships

Active surveillance systems

• Critical area surveillance
• Threat detection and identification

Industrial pulsed electron beam sterilization system

The Alcen Group masters the techniques and constraints of integrating and maintaining in-line or stand-alone e-beam sterilization equipment for pre-existing or new projects.

Unique simulation capabilities allow the Alcen Group to assist its clients in defining their electron beam sterilization equipment.

Feasibility evaluation and characterization of critical parameters of the machine:

• Determining the energy required to pass through the thickness of the product as well as the power required to meet the customer's specifications in terms of production rates
• Product dose mapping to ensure that the minimum and maximum doses meet client expectations
• Radiation protection to size and design the self-shielding of the system and the safety of the customer’s facilities in accordance with safety standards

Measurement capabilities:

• Dosimetry studies to guarantee the expected sterility assurance level (SAL)
• Class 1 microbiological laboratory to evaluate the efficiency of the e-beam system on microorganisms
• Bunker Protected area to integrate development, assembly and testing of equipment

Some examples of applications include

Equipment for the decontamination of pre-sterilized tubs

E-beam accelerator equipment for sterilization of medical and biopharma products

High Dose Rate Continuous Sterilization

The ALCEN Group masters the expertise of high dose rate continuous sterilization using an electron gun. By generating an electron beam with low energy and a very high dose rate, this electron gun can sterilize several products at the same time.

Other advantages include:

• Can be used in an industrial environment (i.e. sterilization of bottle caps and bottles for the agri-food industry)
• Compact design
• Low energy / High dose rates
• Very high voltage

As opposed to electron linear accelerators, this electron beam generator works in an ultra-high vacuum environment. This technique is able to address various applications in the fields of Industry & Food/Agri-Food Industry.

Some examples of applications include

Food/Agri-food

• Sterilizing several bottles and bottle caps at the same time

Surface Sterilization

• Any surface can be sterilized using this method