Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing of Distributed Electronic Systems

Modern vehicles have new functions for improved safety, decreased environmental pollution, and increased comfort. Electronic control units (ECUs) contribute about 90% of these functions. The growing number of ECUs and data exchange via CAN and LIN make it feasible to reuse sensor data and internal ECU variables and distribute complex functions across several ECUs.

The vehicle manufacturers are responsible for the vehicle as an overall system, and for ensuring that ECUs from different suppliers work together. To achieve these objectives, the ECUs must be tested in the network before being used in the vehicle.

This paper discusses the basic issues involved in testing ECU networks and describes the hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) method and its advantages over conventional test methods (such as breadboard tests). Suitable hardware and software solutions are also presented, as well as process integration at the OEM. This last item is decisive if HIL technology is to be used successfully in practice. Fig. 1 shows the disciplines that contribute to the complete solution competence that is nee-ded to plan and build simulators for specific application areas and use scenarios.