Vector Informatik, a software and engineering company, and computer software firm MdynamiX have joined forces to develop test benches for steer-by-wire and conventional steering systems.
Vector brings its expertise in residual bus and vehicle dynamics simulation, along with real-time hardware, to the collaboration. MdynamiX contributes test bench components that aim to provide precise steering feel feedback and capture key performance indicators.
Together, they have created a compact and modular steer-by-wire test system that aims to meet a range of requirements in a tabletop size. CANoe, Vector’s development and testing software tool, can be combined with its modular VT System hardware to form a real-time test system that is designed to be easily configured via a uniform interface.
CANoe integrates Vector’s vehicle dynamics simulation DYNA4, residual bus simulation, test automation and control of the MdynamiX’s MXsteerCon test bench via EtherCAT. The company’s rack actuator, MXsteerAct, applies forces calculated from the vehicle simulation to the test specimen and is controlled by MXsteerCon, as is the steering angle actuator. This setup is applicable to both conventional steering systems and steer-by-wire systems and can be adapted for brake systems by modifying the interfaces.
The joint steering test bench originated from a pilot customer project. The system integrates standard, off-the-shelf software and hardware components from both companies. Additionally, a brake hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) system was developed for the customer within a few weeks. The engineering teams report that the components integrated seamlessly from the beginning. Following this initial success, Vector and MdynamiX have engaged in various joint activities.
Recently, Vector hosted a ‘Meet the Experts’ event in Stuttgart, Germany, where Peter Pfeffer, MD of MdynamiX, and Heiner Hild, head of HIL test systems at Vector, discussed their collaboration. Hild outlined the reliability of Vector’s software and hardware, and Pfeffer explained that the partnership reflects the companies’ shared commitment to innovation and quality.
“The systems are already being used by the first customers with a positive response. There is a clear need for additional test benches,” said Hild.
