Mechanical systems test and control
Over the years we have helped many automotive OEMs and their suppliers to prove out new concepts in mechanical product designs, from innovative transmissions, drive-trains and hybrid systems right through to novel high-end lighting systems. We can help you to improve your mechanical systems test and control.
Proving new mechanical concepts
Often, new concepts in mechanical engineering require new and more advanced control strategies to achieve their full potential.
To improve time to market and maximise the potential of your new technology, it can be highly effective to use a model-based design for the control strategy and adopt Rapid Control Prototyping methodologies, allowing you to focus on your core competencies of mechanical design.
We have a range of RCP products to help you to achieve this potential. Fast turnaround can be achieved using Simulink and capable hardware, in conjunction with diagnostic tools for model debugging, data logging and hardware-in-the-loop testing. Example hardware that can assist with this are MICROGen, and for more complex applications the Genix Target.
Using existing control hardware
Where possible, an existing controller can be used to interface to your new system. Using a communications gateway can allow existing hardware to be used for some features. Adding a new RCP controller to support new functionality and control strategies within the same system, gatewaying CAN and other automotive communications can ‘fool’ the old system into believing the hardware hasn’t changed.
Fleet proving
If you have developed a new concept, even within your organisation, you are going to need buy-in from your stakeholders to accept the technology is working as desired.
Fleet builds are an effective way to do this.
We can support small-to-medium sized fleets, supplying the controller hardware, engineering resource and on-site commissioning manpower to allow you to roll out your concept quickly and as effectively as possible.
Successful approaches
We recommend our customers purchase support in work blocks to ensure ongoing onsite hardware, software and modelling support. This reduces the delays often experienced when putting small project work through purchasing.
This has worked well with some clients, saving considerable amounts by delivering early and reducing issues at the ‘job one’ stage.
Related products
Genix Target
The Genix Target is the first of a new range offering an all-in-one solution for integrating PC chassis and signal conditioning cards within a single rack-based solution.
MICROGen
The MICROGen allows you to develop control models, test them, and make amendments quickly in an iterative process. This allows for efficient RCP or gateway implementation.
VISUALCONNX
VISUALCONNX can help you to build powerful graphical interfaces and analysis tools quickly using drag-and-drop mechanics, and without the need for programming.