To simplify and speed up the development process, AVL and Rohde & Schwarz, providers of automotive test systems, have jointly developed a solution that automates the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) data analysis of an electric drivetrain under real driving conditions.
The electrification of vehicles leads to new EMC challenges because of higher switching frequencies of semiconductors and higher emissions due to high voltages and currents. EMS (Electromagnetic Susceptibility) and EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) testing of components and vehicles addresses these challenges and test automation is seen as key requirement.
In addition, the tests need to be as realistic as possible, so there is a growing trend from static EMC testing of vehicles to dynamic testing where the drivetrain is active, varying in speed as well as torque during the execution of the EMC test.
The real-time synchronisation of measurement data between the EMC testbed, measurement system and automation software are seen as critical for the efficient and repeatable EMC-compliant component and vehicle development.
In response, AVL and Rohde & Schwarz have developed a solution that supports automated testing with simulation of real driving conditions while covering typical automotive standards.
The AVL PUMA 2 automation controls the test cycle and stores the measured data, in synchronisation with the R&S ELEKTRA EMC test software to exchange information between the testbed and the EMC measurement equipment.
The ELEKTRA software has been modified to enable automatic and seamless communication with AVL CONCERTO software, replacing a previously manual process. CONCERTO is post-processing the measured data automatically and gives a full test report according to the pre-defined pass and fail criteria.
R&S ELEKTRA controls complete EMC systems and automates measurements of equipment under test (EUT) being certified for emissions (EMI) and immunity (EMS). The software simplifies configuration of test systems and test descriptions in accordance with common standards. It speeds up test execution and paves the way to quickly generating a comprehensive test report.
“Many customers have been wanting to see Rohde & Schwarz EMC analysers connected to the AVL EMC test automation system. Together, we have finally accomplished this, and are pleased to offer this new solution, improving and accelerating EMC validation of e-drives and vehicles,” said Alban Hemery, Department Manager for E-Motor Test Systems and EMC Applications at AVL List.
“The enhancement of R&S ELEKTRA to be compatible with AVL’s PUMA 2 is a significant step speeding up EMC test times under real driving conditions, particularly for electric drivetrains,” added Juergen Meyer, Vice President Market Segment Automotive at Rohde & Schwarz.
