A Hardware in the Loop (HIL) test system enables the engineer to build a realistic test environment and integrate real hardware components with the model environment and validate the real hardware components as well as the software together.
For an AD/ADAS HIL system all major components that will be connected to the central control unit could be stimulated by the test environment and the output of the central control unit could be fed back into the HIL test rack input interface, 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, after processing the data, send instructions as indicated in the picture.
Hardware
in the Loop
(HIL)
After Model and Software in the loop test the next challenge in Automated Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Autonomous Driving (AD) functionality test is to add crucial components such as sensors and ECUs to the Model in the loop environment. Once real hardware is combined with the simulation and they form a close loop, we are talking about hardware in the loop test (HIL). In this case AD/ ADAS HIL test.
Konrad Technologies (KT) developed together with National Instruments (NI) an innovative AD/ ADAS HIL 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.
Below we want to present to you the main components for the AD/ ADAS Sensor fusion HIL 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
AD/ ADAS 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.
Driver in the Loop (DIL) Integration
DIL Systems can be combined with AD/ADAS HIL test systems to validate AD/ADAS functionality as a pre-step to ground truthing.
It is a test methodology we are additionally including driver reaction and human perception into the test with the objective to replicate real world driving situations in the lab environment.
APA ECU
Validation & Verification
For autonomous parking applications it may be required to develop an additional HIL bench alongside the AD/ADAS HIL test bench.
This is also called the APA-HIL (Autonomous Parking Assistance HIL). They often leverage Camera and Ultrasonic OTA simulation to integrate these sensors to the ECU and execute a closed-loop test.
Engineering
Services
We offer requirement analysis, system design and turnkey-integration to the complete AD/ADAS-HIL system with automation software tools, vehicle dynamics & ADAS scenario software.
This enables you to create the desired test case at ease. We provide a high level of flexibility compared to our peers in this field.
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through our long term experience in large high tech projects.
Related Articles
Vehicle-in-the-Loop (VIL)
Konrad Technologies (KT) developed together with National Instruments (NI) an innovative AD/ ADAS VIL system based on PXI (PCI eXtensions for Instrumentation) technology.
