Multi-ECU Simulation for Cross-Platform Application Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing vehicle-mounted electronic control unit (ECU) applications face challenges in cross-platform simulation, development, and testing due to the limited number of software and hardware test devices, making it difficult to perform independent testing across multiple platforms.
Innovation Solution
A multi-ECU simulation test method and apparatus that simulate a network of ECUs on a computer device, allowing for the input of applications into a pre-built multi-ECU simulation environment, querying and simulating communication processes through a simulated CAN or Internet network, and running applications based on target simulated ECUs to output results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical test devices are used for ECU application testing, then testing can be performed, but the limited number of devices makes it difficult to perform cross-platform simulation and independent testing by multiple parties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of ECUs (virtual ECUs) that replicate the functionality of physical ECUs. These virtual ECUs run in a simulation environment, allowing multiple parties to perform independent testing without needing physical devices. The virtual ECU includes a virtual CPU, virtual memory, and virtual peripheral devices that mimic the behavior of real ECUs, enabling cross-platform simulation and development.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulation test platform is designed to support multiple ECUs and various application scenarios within a single system. The platform can simulate different ECU types, network configurations (CAN, LIN, Ethernet), and communication protocols, allowing one physical test platform to replace multiple specialized physical test devices and serve multiple testing purposes simultaneously.
2Reliability
If multiple physical test devices are used for collaborative development and testing, then comprehensive testing can be achieved, but it increases complexity and reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple ECU simulations and testing functions into a single integrated simulation test platform. The platform combines virtual ECUs, simulation environment, test case management, and result analysis in one system, allowing developers to perform comprehensive testing independently without coordinating multiple physical devices. The unified interface and centralized control simplify the testing process while maintaining thoroughness.
3Manufacturing precision
If physical ECUs are used for testing, then actual hardware behavior can be verified, but it limits the ability to perform pre-development simulation and increases testing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables developers to perform preliminary simulation and testing of ECU applications in a virtual environment before deploying to physical hardware. The simulation platform allows pre-development testing, validation of communication protocols, and verification of application logic without requiring physical ECUs. This preliminary action reduces development cycle time and allows issues to be identified and resolved earlier in the development process.
Data Source
AI summary
The multi-ECU simulation test method includes: obtaining a pre-developed application applied to a target ECU; inputting the application into a pre-built multi-ECU simulation environment; querying a simulated vehicle-mounted ECU having a unique identifier the same as the target ECU from a plurality of simulated vehicle-mounted ECUs in the multi-ECU simulation environment as a target simulated ECU; and simulating a communication process of the target simulated ECU via a simulated controller area network or a simulated Internet network in the multi-ECU simulation environment, running the application based on the target simulated ECU, and outputting a running result of the application.