Vehicle Computing System Module Testing via CAN Bus Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of vehicle computing systems makes it difficult to test new modules and software effectively, especially in offsite and third-party developer environments, where the vast number of possible inputs and reactions can lead to overlooked input combinations and potential errors affecting vehicle performance or driver distraction.
Innovation Solution
A technology development kit (TDK) that simulates vehicle environments by replicating various inputs and controls, including CAN bus signals, to connect with vehicle computing systems, allowing developers to test hardware and software under different conditions without a physical vehicle, ensuring proper module implementation and reducing the risk of errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If testing is performed in a real vehicle environment, then the authenticity of testing conditions is improved, but the accessibility and convenience for offsite and third-party developers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simulated vehicle environment that replicates the electrical and communication characteristics of a real vehicle without requiring physical presence in an actual vehicle. This allows developers to perform authentic testing locally using a simulation device that generates realistic vehicle signals and responses.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the vehicle system complexity increases, then the functionality and capabilities are improved, but the difficulty of testing and integration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation device segments the complex vehicle testing function into manageable components, providing individual controls for different vehicle systems (engine, transmission, brakes, etc.). This allows developers to test specific functions independently rather than dealing with the entire complex system at once.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulation device acts as an intermediary between the developer's test code and the complex vehicle system. It translates developer inputs into realistic vehicle responses and mediates the communication, shielding developers from the underlying system complexity while maintaining testing authenticity.
3Reliability
If comprehensive input combinations are tested, then the coverage and reliability are improved, but the time and resources required deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation device pre-configures realistic vehicle states and signal patterns that represent various driving conditions and system states. This preliminary setup allows developers to immediately test multiple input combinations without manually configuring each scenario, significantly reducing testing time while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a plurality of first inputs, corresponding to changeable vehicle state variables, manipuable to simulate changes in vehicle state. The apparatus includes a plurality of second inputs, corresponding to vehicle system controls, manipuable to simulate activation of vehicle controls. Also, in this embodiment, the apparatus also includes one or more bus inputs, configured to receive vehicle CAN bus signals and one or more bus outputs, configured to output vehicle CAN bus signals. Further, the apparatus includes a communication connection, configured to connect to a vehicle computing system module (VCSM) and to provide and receive signals from the VCSM allowing for testing of hardware and software in conjunction with the VCSM under various vehicle environments.