Innovation Awards 2026 Presented to the Best Innovators of the Zasavje Region

At the jubilee 30th Awards Ceremony for Innovators, the Zasavje Chamber of Commerce recognized the best regional innovations with 9 gold, 16 silver and 9 bronze awards, as well as a special award for the most original innovation presentation. ETI was once again among the most successful award recipients, confirming its commitment to innovation and the development of new solutions. Six of the highest-rated innovations advanced to the national competition and will compete for awards recognizing Slovenia’s best innovations at Innovation Day on September 15.

Recipients of Gold Awards:

• INNOVATORS: Matej Kavšek, Matjaž Rataj, Benjamin Juvan, Miha Brvar, Nikola Grabnar, Boštjan Švigelj, Said Beganović (ETI Elektroelement d.o.o.,  VIAL Automation d.o.o., Procesi d.o.o.)

 INNOVATION: Development of the PCF 10 Fuse Switch Disconnector and an Automated Assembly Line (qualified for the national innovation competition 2026).

The new generation of the PCF 10 fuse switch disconnector brings numerous new features to the global market and provides protection for various electrical engineering systems. The innovation combines a comprehensive redesign of the PCF 10 product with the development of a new automated assembly line, positioning the company among leading high-quality suppliers. With this innovation, we achieved a 40% reduction in own cost, increased production capacity, and significantly improved production quality and traceability.

• INNOVATORS:  Andraž Pušnik, Jakob Jesenšek (ETI Elektroelement d.o.o.)

INNOVATION: Automated System for Testing, Adjustment and Traceability of RCCBs

The innovation represents an automated system for testing and magnetizing RCCBs, combining direct measurements on the product, elimination of the effects of contact resistance, and full traceability of each individual piece. The system includes automatic handling, laser marking and multi-stage verification, enabling a stable process, greater measurement accuracy and reliable relay operation in final use.

Recipients of Silver Awards:

• INNOVATORS:  David Kralj, Aleš Erjavec, M.Sc. Iztok Vozelj (ETI Elektroelement d.o.o., KOLEKTOR SISTEH d.o.o.)

INNOVATION: Unified Namespace (UNS) as an Innovation in ETI’s Industrial Data Architecture

The innovation introduces the modern Unified Namespace (UNS) data architecture into ETI’s production environment. The solution establishes a unified, structured and real-time accessible data space that connects production machines, controllers, information systems and analytics platforms. Using MQTT communication, it enables reliable data exchange and simplifies system integration and the use of data in production.

• INNOVATORS:  Matic Pirš, M.Sc. Iztok Vozelj (ETI Elektroelement d.o.o.)

INNOVATION: Agile Sales Price Management System Based on Exchange-Traded Non-Ferrous Metal Prices

• INNOVATORS: Uroš Polc, M.Sc. Iztok Vozelj (ETI Elektroelement d.o.o., ETI Proplast d.o.o.)

INNOVATION: Implementation of an Advanced Digital Platform for Integrating the ERP System with Production Lines for Automated Management, Optimization and Dynamic Calibration of Production Processes

The innovation introduces a digital connection between the Infor ERP system and production lines through CDF fields and API interfaces, while supporting UNS architecture and the preparation of digital twins of production lines. It enables automatic parameter setting and calibration according to the product, reduces manual work, shortens preparation time and improves repeatability. At the same time, it provides centralized management, better traceability and supports the digitalization of production.

• INNOVATOR: Dejan Prosenik (ETI d.o.o.)

INNOVATION: NH gS Kombi Fuse Links

The NH gS Kombi innovation represents the optimization of existing fuse links for PV systems and semiconductor protection. By optimizing the design, materials and production processes, costs were reduced while maintaining high reliability. The optimization was also achieved using processes and materials that had not previously been used in such types of fuse links. The solution is intended for inverter manufacturers and energy systems and contributes to competitiveness.

• INNOVATORS: Peter Drnovšek, Blaž Majdič, Simon Kovač, Peter Bregar, Tilen Vidonja, Matic Bajda, Peter Trdin (ETI Elektroelement d.o.o.)

INNOVATION: Automated NV 00C Assembly Line with Integrated Packaging

The NV00C line is based on the platform of previous automated lines with an optimized assembly process. It is supported by the MES system, which enables two-way communication and full product traceability. Optical inspection and artificial intelligence support are integrated for detecting defects in the welding process and supporting preventive maintenance. An automated packaging system with digital quality control is also included.

• INNOVATORS: Miha Medved, Peter Bregar, Jakob Kralj, Uroš Kovač, Matic Bajda, Maxime Emeršič, Matic Kreže, Uroš Polc (ETI Elektroelement d.o.o., ETI PROPLAST d.o.o.)

INNOVATION: Automation of the HV Fuse Production Process

The key objective of this technological innovation was to develop a partially automated process for manufacturing high-voltage (HV) fuse links according to Industry 4.0 principles. This resulted in up to 40% higher productivity, automatic machine changeovers without manual intervention, and a significant reduction in material and labor costs per unit. 

• INNOVATORS: Andraž Pušnik, Lucjan Strehar (ETI Elektroelement d.o.o.)

INNOVATION: KZS-6M, 4-Pole Type B Residual Current Circuit Breaker with Overcurrent Protection

The combined Type B residual current circuit breaker with overcurrent protection is an important innovation on the market, as it enables protection of multi-phase frequency converters and electric vehicle charging stations. In a 6-module-wide version for 4 poles, it replaces the combination of a 4-pole EFI Type B and a 4-pole miniature circuit breaker, while providing overcurrent, short-circuit and residual current protection, including for residual currents up to 1 kHz and smooth DC residual currents. 

Recipients of Bronze Awards:

• INNOVATORS: Mitja Kržišnik, Primož Šibanc (ETI Elektroelement d.o.o.)

INNOVATION: Remote Administration System – ETI Access

An in-house solution based on an open-source platform for remote administration of information systems was developed, enabling centralized, controlled and audit-traceable browser-based access. It includes multi-factor authentication, rights management, access logging and session recording, as well as time-limited ad hoc access for external contractors. The solution reduces the risks associated with the use of public tools and ensures compliance with ZInfV-1 (NIS2) and ISO 27001.

• INNOVATORS:  Denis Bolte, Matija Pograjc, Peter Kastelic, Simon Bregar (ETI Elektroelement d.o.o.)

INNOVATION: Development of a Distribution Cabinet for Residential Self-Consumption Systems and a Lean Production Line

The innovation combines a dedicated distribution cabinet and a lean production line for residential self-consumption systems. The distribution cabinet safely manages energy from solar panels, batteries and the grid, while production on the lean line reduces errors, scrap and required space, and increases efficiency and manufacturing quality. In this way, the innovation directly contributes to creating a safe, energy-independent and sustainable future of self-consumption.

Congratulations to all  innovators!