Controller Test Simulation Using Separate Networks and Message Playback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing control units via simulators, such as HIL and SIL systems, face challenges in accurately simulating and manipulating messages between control units without being detected, especially when dealing with recorded messages that may have timestamps and encryption, which can cause issues with message authenticity and readability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of separate networks within the simulator allows for the receipt, manipulation, and forwarding of recorded messages, ensuring message authenticity and encryption are maintained, enabling the simulator to simulate communication between control units without being detected, by using a playback unit and simulation model to manage message queues and buffers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If recorded messages with timestamps and encryption are played back directly to the control unit, then message authenticity and encryption are maintained, but the control unit may detect the simulation and reject the messages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary playback unit that sits between the message source and the control unit under test. This playback unit intercepts recorded messages, manipulates their timestamps and encryption, and forwards them to the control unit. The intermediary enables the system to maintain message authenticity while simultaneously allowing simulation detection to be avoided, as the playback unit can adjust message characteristics to match expected patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying timestamp values and encryption parameters of recorded messages during playback. The playback unit adjusts these parameters to ensure messages appear authentic to the control unit while enabling flexible simulation scenarios. This allows the same recorded message to be played back under different time conditions and security configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate networks are used in the simulator, then message manipulation is enabled for testing purposes, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the simulator network into separate networks - one for receiving recorded messages and another for forwarding manipulated messages to the control unit. This segmentation enables independent manipulation of messages in each network segment while maintaining overall system functionality. The playback unit operates in one segment without interfering with control unit communication in another segment, thus enabling message manipulation while keeping complexity manageable through modular architecture.
3Productivity
If the playback unit manipulates messages to avoid detection, then testing effectiveness is improved, but message integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The playback unit selectively changes certain parameters of recorded messages (such as timestamps and encryption keys) while preserving the core message content and structure. This selective parameter modification enables testing effectiveness by allowing flexible playback scenarios while maintaining message integrity for the essential information needed for control unit testing. The integrity of critical message data is preserved even as auxiliary parameters are adjusted.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for testing at least one control unit. At least two separate networks are provided on a simulator, wherein the control unit under test is connected to the simulator via a first network and a first control unit interface. The control unit under test is intended to communicate with at least one further control unit. The communication of the first further control unit is at least partly in the form of recorded messages. A playback unit for playing back the recorded messages is connected via at least one playback interface to the second network or a third network on the simulator. The playback unit is connected to the simulator via the playback interface.