Modern measurement and testing technology revolutionizes our mobility

Autonomous driving Modern measurement and testing technology revolutionizes our mobility

2024-10-07 Source: Datatec | Translated by AI 4 min Reading Time

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State-of-the-art measurement and testing technology is essential for driver assistance systems to work reliably. For autonomous driving, measurement and testing applications will continue to gain importance and make a crucial contribution to advancing the technology, as shown by this article from the measurement technology specialist Datatec.

State-of-the-art measurement and testing technology is essential for driver assistance systems to work reliably.(Image: Adobe Stock) — State-of-the-art measurement and testing technology is essential for driver assistance systems to work reliably.
(Image: Adobe Stock)

The idea that cars could move completely autonomously through cities and on highways is still a vision for the future. However, research and development towards this goal are being conducted intensively worldwide. Even today, driver assistance systems are increasingly taking over tasks. For these systems to function reliably and safely, and for autonomous driving to eventually become commonplace, advanced measurement and testing technology is required.

The potential of self-driving cars is enormous. They could increase traffic safety and improve traffic flow, get us to our destinations more relaxed, reduce CO₂ emissions, and revolutionize the entire transport system. However, the paradigm shift in mobility can only succeed if all electronic components and vehicle functions work together in a coordinated and fault-free manner. Innovative testing solutions are required for the test management of the increasingly complex electronic systems and for complying with industry standards in the field of e-mobility, so that the vehicles meet the high demands for safety and efficiency.

Gallery

Driver assistance systems are increasingly taking over tasks from the driver.(Image: Adobe Stock)

Modern driver assistance systems play a major role in vehicle safety and comfort.(Image: Adobe Stock)

Autonomous driving

Modern driver assistance systems, such as the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), already play a significant role in vehicle safety and comfort. Even the smallest errors can lead to the wrong assessment of a situation—with potentially severe consequences. Therefore, the complexity of the technologies used requires precise automotive testing. Automated and autonomous driving place even higher demands on measurement and testing technology. Even the development of these vehicles requires a multi-layered approach that encompasses various process steps.

Simulation forms the basis for testing autonomous vehicles. It creates virtual environments where algorithms, sensors, and control systems can be tested and validated. Once initial prototypes of the autonomous vehicle are built, their design concept, functionality, and safety must be evaluated. During dynamic driving tests, the behavior of the prototype under various driving conditions is examined. Sensors and data recording systems are used to measure parameters such as speed, acceleration, and forces. The electronics are also extensively tested during this phase, as all components must function flawlessly and meet the required standards. The crucial tests for autonomous vehicles take place under real driving conditions. With the help of data acquisition systems, sensors, and telemetry solutions, data from test vehicles are captured and analyzed in real time. This data is invaluable for identifying potential issues, optimizing algorithms, and improving overall system performance. Accurate measurements are also critical for safety. This includes thorough characterization and validation of radar, lidar, and other vehicle electronics. All systems must operate safely and effectively under various conditions.

The connected car

Autonomous vehicles must communicate with each other to ensure successful interaction in traffic. Essential for these connected cars is that radio standards and GNSS systems function and perform optimally. Testing applications include testing C-V2X components and C-V2X radio simulation. Conformity assessments according to global standards and tests of extreme scenarios guarantee reliability. Vehicle access control is also strictly monitored. To detect errors in communication networks, control units (ECU) are tested, and bus systems are triggered and decoded. Standards-compliant conformity assessments, EMI troubleshooting, and signal quality and power integrity checks are crucial in this process. Additionally, the communication between the communication bus and battery management is checked, and line disturbances and voltage dips are simulated.

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)

Modern vehicle functions rely on a variety of radio and radar technologies. An essential aspect, therefore, is the resilience of electronic components to interference emissions and external electromagnetic sources. EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) compliance tests according to all major standards such as CISPR, IEC, ISO, or MIL ensure that the vehicle is immune to interference emissions. This includes EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) analyses, EMI pre-compliance tests, and coexistence performance tests of radio systems.

Battery management

The Battery Management System (BMS) aims to ensure maximum performance, range, and safety. The development and testing of a BMS are achieved through the emulation of individual battery cells and real-time monitoring of parameters such as voltage, current, and state of charge. The power consumption of electronic components is monitored, the efficiency of inverters is qualified, and quiescent currents in standby mode or current spikes during the power-on process are characterized.

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Infotainment

Modern measurement and testing technology also ensures high-quality infotainment. Mobile internet, multimedia, antennas, and navigation devices—all systems must work smoothly. The power consumption of applications and components is also monitored; batteries undergo endurance tests. Tests also include simulations of interference signals and scenarios for broadcasting and mobile standards, as well as conformity tests for WiFi or Bluetooth transceivers and the generation and simulation of GNSS signals.