UK-based automotive test facility, Millbrook, has commissioned and built a simulation suite that creates an integrated vehicle-in-the-loop (VIL) ecosystem combining Millbrook’s virtual proving ground with detailed vehicle modelling software. The suite is designed to enable Millbrook to support vehicle development within virtual and blended environments.
The simulator can be used for designing, developing and testing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs), and conventional vehicles. It can also be used to determine vehicle road safety, develop artificial intelligence, test infotainment packages, and validate intelligent energy systems on electric powertrains for battery and thermal management.
“The addition of our new VIL simulator means we can now put real vehicles into virtual environments. Our 5G capability provides excellent connectivity on-site and allows manufacturers to measure vehicle performance in a more controlled, simulated environment, before heading out on our test tracks,” explained Peter Stoker, chief engineer for CAVs at Millbrook. “Actual track results can be replayed via the simulator and weather and traffic can be safely changed, while users interact with real sensors.”
The VIL simulation is intended to complement Millbrook’s Driver-in-the-Loop system and biometric sensors, by interacting with high-fidelity track models. Models of the test vehicle and its actuators and sensors, radar and camera systems can be provided or customers’ own digital models, and hardware can be brought into the simulation. A selection of generic vehicle models is available for demonstrations and preliminary testing.
