A Vehicle in the Loop (VIL) test system enables the engineer to build a realistic test environment and integrate the real vehicle with the model environment and validate the real vehicles AD/ ADAS functionality in a lab environment.
For an AD/ADAS VIL system critical components that will be connected to the central control unit could be stimulated by the test system and the output of the central control unit could be fed back into the test system, thus a complete loop test is achieved. Finally, we can compare if the output is what we expected or if we need to debug.
As an example, we can look at Automated cruise control (ACC) function validation. If we combine Radar and Camera sensor input data, they will perceive target information send it to the controller and the controller will update the driving parameters.
AD/ADAS
Vehicle in the Loop
(VIL)
One of the last steps in the V-Cycle for Automated Driver Assistance Systems(ADAS) and Autonomous Driving (AD) functionality test is to add the complete vehicle to the Hardware in the loop environment. Once the real vehicle is combined with the HIL simulation and they are forming a closed loop, we are talking about Vehicle in the loop test (VIL). In this case AD/ ADAS VIL test.
Konrad Technologies (KT) developed together with National Instruments (NI) an innovative AD/ ADAS VIL system based on PXI (PCI eXtensions for Instrumentation) technology. With the open system architecture, we can look at each of our customers requirements and build tailor-made validation equipment that incorporates all critical hardware components that need to be tested.
Additionally, it will always be possible to add new testing methods such as injection-based test and over the air simulation (OTA) to stimulate sensors as well as adding new sensors to the test coverage if it should be required.
Finally, the AD/ ADAS VIL test system can be connected to other equipment in the vehicle test lab environment to ensure a future proof investment. The goal is that we do as many tests as possible with the vehicle in the loop before we start the drive test. This ensures a safer and more controlled environment to test critical AD/ ADAS functionality.
Below we want to present to you the main components for AD/ ADAS Sensor fusion VIL test and if you are facing the challenge to validate AD/ ADAS functionality, sensors, and controllers, you are very welcome to contact us with your specific requirements, so that we can propose a suitable solution for your individual circumstances.
Solutions
ADAS/ AD
HIL Rack
The Konrad AD/ADAS HIL Rack offers different size options from small, medium to large. The size will depend on the validation requirements.
For automotive interfaces we work closely with NI to provide CAN FD/HS, LIN, FlexRay, Ethernet, AETH, Power Supply, current measurement, digital Input, digital output, analog Input, analog output, PWM Input/Output, FIU and more.
Furthermore, we can provide signal conditioning to provide a seamless experience for the end-user.
Sensor Data
Injection & Integration
In case we don't need to test the optical / RF / Audio part of the sensor we can directly inject the simulated or recorded data into the sensor ECU, or the AD/ ADAS controller.
This option may be more cost effective but has a lower test coverage.
Over-the-Air
Systems
integration
For real sensor integration, KT has developed in-house Sensor simulation systems for Radar, Camera, Ultrasonic and Lidar that can be added to any AD/ ADAS test system.
We can add as many simulation systems to the HIL test bench as the customer requires ensuring to get as close to a real drive scenario as possible.
Roller Bench/ Dynamometer
Integration Service
We can offer engineering support to add AD/ ADAS test capability to a Vehicle on a roller bench/chassis dynamometer for a simulated drive scenario.
We dont offer Dynamometers or Roller benches ourselves but our test tool chain has an open interface to be integrated to established suppliers in the automotive market.
Vehicle in the Loop (VIL) with Sensor Fusion Test benefits:
- Final system level functional test for vehicle safety functions
- Performance test for vehicle and ADAS/AD functions
- Repeatability Test for vehicle and ADAS/AD functions
- Stress Test for sensors and ADAS/AD modules
- Powertrain dynamometers with steering capability or roller bench
EMC RTS
Shielding Box
The KT ADAS/AD EMC (Electro-Magnetic-Compatibility) RTS (Radar Target Simulator) Shielding Box is a configurable, enclosure to protect high value Radar Simulation & measurement device components in a lab environment with EMC test requirements.
The Shielding Box can be configured for multiple interfaces to meet multiple customer requirements. It could also be modified as enclosure to protect other expensive instrumentations in EMC Test environments.
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