ECU Testing

When a real ECU is validated, it is tested in a controlled environment. In this case, all other network participants are simulated to eliminate any impact of faulty real hardware participants. Since the ECU is operated in a laboratory environment, it is easy to get the ECU in the desired operation modes. In addition, if the ECU to be tested displays a wrong behavior, this cannot endanger hardware or even persons.

To make the simulation scenario realistic, dynamic model-based signals can be used in addition to static ones.

For comprehensive ECU testing, including the communication, it is vital to use real-time systems that provide sufficient computing power. dSPACE offers high-performance systems for simulating complex models with short calculation cycles. A seamless integration of Simulink^® models facilitates the work process. dSPACE also supports the use of further simulation models, such as Functional Mock-up Units (FMUs), so you can always choose the model most suitable for your test scenario. This results in an even more realistic test environment for your ECUs. Having once invested the effort for configuring your communication, you can easily reuse the configuration for other projects. The dSPACE Bus Manager supports a container format for exchanging model components and bus configurations. This makes setting up the test scenario efficient and convenient.

With the experiment software ControlDesk, you can monitor all important signals and variables during the test process to get a clear overview or manipulate its values during run time. Additionally, you can run your test scenarios automatically. 

Supported Bus and Network Protocols

For ECU testing, the dSPACE products support the following communication protocols:

• CAN
• CAN FD (ISO and non-ISO)
• LIN
• Ethernet
• FlexRay