Real-Time Testing

Python-based real-time test automation

Python-based test automation – 100% reproducible real-time tests executed synchronously with simulation model

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  • Real-Time Testing

    Real-time hardware can be accessed via an interpreter running on the processor board. Since the interpreter is executed at the same rate as the realtime application, it can be used to perform real-time tests. This training course provides an introduction to programming real-time tests based on the Python programming language. Course participants will discuss standard applications and implement them in practical examples.

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  • Real-time testing without model modification
  • Easy integration into user-defined test frameworks (AutomationDesk or others)
  • Support of all dSPACE platforms1) including VEOS, dSPACE’s platform for PC-based offline simulation

1) Except DS1104.

The tool is suitable to be used in safety-related development projects according to ISO 26262:2018 for any automotive safety integrity level (ASIL).

Application Areas

Automated testing is usually performed by executing tests on a standard PC connected to the hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) system. However, this method often cannot cope where greater timing precision is required – for example, if ECU interaction has to be captured and responded to in a range of milliseconds. Real-Time Testing with its Python scripts for real-time testing is the answer. 

Key Benefits

The scripts run on the simulation platform, e.g., a dSPACE HIL system. They run synchronously with the model, so all test actions are performed on a real-time basis – 100% reproducibly. This opens up expanded test options with dSPACE Simulator. Reactive tests which respond to changes in model variables within the same simulation step can be implemented. Time measurements in tests are also far more precise, as there are no latencies in communication. Simulation step size is now the only limit to the maximum time resolution of measurements. Real-time test scripts do not only run on HIL systems but also on VEOS, dSPACE's platform for PC-based offline simulation. Therefore, you can reuse the test scripts seamlessly throughout the entire development process – from virtual validation to HIL simulation.

Functionality Description
Real-time testing
  • Real-time test management by scripting and dedicated graphical user interface
  • Real-Time Testing library in AutomationDesk for convenient script management
  • Model variables can be observed and changed in every simulation step
  • No model modification necessary for real-time testing
100% reproducible real-time tests in Python
  • Tests are executed synchronously with simulation model
  • Real-time tests implemented in Python (user-extensible via libraries)
  • Concurrent execution of several independent test scripts
  • Dynamic test loading during model and test execution
  • Read and write access to model variables in every simulation step
Key features
  • Easy integration into user-defined test frameworks (AutomationDesk or others)
  • Use of measured data such as MAT files located on host PC for real-time stimulation of model variables
    • Data streaming now also supports ASAM MDF files (Version 4.x), the established ASAM measurement data format
  • Python objects can be easily exchanged between real-time tests and the PC Python script
  • Seamless support of all dSPACE platforms1)
    • Support of MicroAutoBox III and simulation on a remote simulator with VEOS
  • Virtual ECU (V-ECU) support
    • Stimulation and monitoring of signals and variables in V-ECUs
    • Variables of remote virtual processing units (VPUs) can be accessed in real-time tests on a VEOS platform
    • Sleep & Wakeup mode support for V-ECUs enables advanced testing capabilities.
  • Sending and monitoring of CAN and CAN-FD frames (based on RTI CAN MultiMessage Blockset or Bus Manager)
  • NEW: Access to Ethernet bus communication that allows customers to react in real time by observing or transmitting Ethernet frames as part of their tests

1) Except DS1104.

AutomationDesk Powerful test authoring and automation tool for HIL testing of ECUs Platform API Package Access to dSPACE real-time platforms and dSPACE VEOS SYNECT Data management and collaboration software with a focus on model-based development and ECU VEOS Platform for PC-based simulation Real-Time Testing Observer Library Continuous monitoring of safety-critical requirements in real time
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