VI-grade, a developer and supplier of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development technologies, has officially launched its Driver-in-Motion Full Spectrum (DiM FSS) Simulator, which was exclusively debuted at VI-grade’s Zero Prototypes Summit in May.
The DiM FSS is a real-time driver-in-the-loop simulator that creates a comprehensive experience of accurate motion, vibration and sound over a complete spectrum from 0 to 20kHz. VI-grade says it is the first simulator capable of generating full vehicle motion with 9 degrees of freedom over a multi-meter workspace, paired with precise sound and vibration, to create a fully immersive experience. This innovation results from VI-grade’s expertise in vehicle dynamics and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) simulation.
Historically, vehicle dynamics and NVH evaluations were conducted separately, even though driving integrates dynamics, ride quality, sound, and vibration. The most effective evaluation method combines these elements into a single simulation. The DiM FSS addresses this demand through its multi-stage system, capturing vehicle dynamics, motion, vibration and sound.
To achieve this, the engineers developing DiM FSS implemented a three-stage approach, with a Lower Stage delivering primary vehicle motion and a Middle Stage providing full 6 DOF motion. Finally, the Hyperdock Stage features a highly optimised carbon-fibre cockpit that delivers high-frequency vibration through transducers at key driver touchpoints, while sound is provided through in-cockpit speakers or headphones.
The design reduces mass, increases structural stiffness, and enhances overall simulation performance, providing an immersive environment for multi-attribute evaluation. Additionally, all VI-grade actuator-based and cable-driven dynamic simulators can be upgraded with the new Hyperdock.
“I am thrilled to announce the launch of our DiM FSS Simulator, marking a significant advancement in our multi-attribute journey,” commented David Bogema, senior director, product management at VI-grade. “The DiM FSS Simulator represents a quantum leap in experimental simulation, seamlessly integrating vehicle dynamics, motion, vibration, and sound into one immersive experience. We are also proud of the rapid commercial success it has already achieved. Two units have already been sold, with the first one to be delivered to our customer in a few weeks.”
Ina further success, the DiM FSS Simulator won the Hardware Innovation of the Year category of the Automotive Testing Technology International Awards, presented on 4th June at Automotive Testing Expo in Stuttgart, Germany.
