The availability of the Simulink-based model enables users to integrate their existing simulation models with little effort. At the same time, it ensures the openness and expandability of the vehicle-dynamics simulation model for offline and real-time applications. The interface with multi-body tools - such as SIMPACK from Intec or ADAMS/Car from MSC Software - facilitates easy and process-compatible parameterisation of the vehicle-dynamics model for Labcar applications.
Process-compatible data access
Carmakers manage the modeling data of their vehicle-dynamics components by means of databases, CAD systems or multi-body tools. Accordingly, accessing this data at a later time during the vehicle development process translates into both efficiency and cost savings. For example, when testing electronic control units in a real-time simulation on the HiL test bench, it would be most convenient if one could reuse previously recorded modelling test data. This information may concern vehicle dynamics, driving or ride comfort characteristics, and/or the service life of axles and vehicle components. The parameterisation interface to the Simpack simulation tool would be an ideal conduit for the direct downloading of the vehicle-dynamics parameters to the new model. In this way, a largely automated means of downloading data to the vehicle-dynamics model components of the Labcar models can be ensured. At the same time, the frequent errors occurring in the manual transfer of such data, i.e., between the function-development tool and the HiL tool, can be prevented. Last but certainly not least, the automated transmission procedure would guarantee that the data required by the respective models is always up to date.
Modular product concept
Thanks to its modular structure (Figure 1), the product provides inherent adaptability to a diversity of projects while meeting a variety of requirements. Pre-existing component models or segments thereof - e.g., a vehicle-dynamics component containing an axle suspension suited to a specific project - may be integrated into the current Labcar model structure through a simple swap-out of the respective Simulink data blocks. The basic model product comprises a vehicle-dynamics simulation model containing the Driver Vehicle Environment model components (DVE). The Vehicle model consists of power train, axles, wheels, and brake. The wheel suspensions are modelled as semi-trailing arm axles. Two optional extension modules are available for the basic model: The LABCAR-VDME1 (Vehicle Dynamics Model Extension 1) and LABCAR-VDME2 (Vehicle Dynamics Model Extension 2) provide options for a stepwise increase in modelling fidelity and model accuracy. Using characteristic maps to describe the kinematic and elasto-kinematic properties of the suspension mounting, the VDME1 model extension provides greater model accuracy than the basic model. Even more modelling precision is achieved with the VDME2. Because it uses component-oriented modelling elements to describe the kinematic and elasto-kinematic properties, this model is particularly suited to applications characterised by extensive demands in terms of simulation detail (Figure 2).
Identical model topology
For ECU testing, additional members of the Labcar product family are offered, representing real-time capable vehicle models, e.g., for gasoline and diesel engines. Because all of these models share an identical topology, the users will be able to respond to specific requirements by combining model components from different products in the Simulink simulation environment. Default data records and graphical user interfaces for Labcar-Operator support hardware-in-the-loop testing, with the model data being used, among others, for referencing purposes. If three-dimensional motion rendering of the vehicle model is desired, the real-time capable LABCAR-ACM (Animation Connector for Labcar Models) will prove a valuable addition, for example.
