Current hardware-in-the-loop validation methods on full system level (system HIL), are increasingly reaching their limits in automotive software development: They are too expensive, too slow, and not scalable. Today however, speed, scalability, and efficiency are more critical than ever before. This is where Rapid HIL comes in: an innovative approach that redefines HIL testing.
What is Rapid HIL?
Rapid HIL combines physical validation of individual electronic control units (ECUs) with a virtual vehicle environment powered by CarMaker. While conventional system HIL requires the setup of a complex network of several real ECUs, only the device under test (DUT) is physical hardware in Rapid HIL, all other components are efficiently virtualized.
CarMaker not only ensures excellent correlation with real test driving but also enables easy reproduction of real-world driving scenarios. Additionally, CarMaker facilitates the integration of models, for example as virtual ECUs (level 1 to 4) or by using the FMI standard. By virtualizing bus communication and reducing complexity, full focus lies on the DUT.
Fast, flexible, scalable
A Rapid HIL test bench can be deployed within just a few weeks. Additional benches can be added much faster, creating Rapid HIL farms capable of executing thousands of tests in just a few hours. Developers benefit from overnight feedback, allowing quicker implementation and validation of new solutions.
The flexibility of Rapid HIL is a major advantage: it can typically be reconfigured for new vehicle programs within a single day, provided the same base ADAS controllers are used. Compared with conventional system HILs, which often take weeks to reconfigure, this is a true game changer, especially for teams supporting multiple vehicle lines or rapid prototyping.
A bridge to the future
While good software development practice calls for starting with software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing, many companies are already familiar with HIL testing. This makes a strong entry point for Rapid HIL – leveraging a well-known technology in a new way to accelerate testing. The real bridge to the future lies in later extending SIL into earlier development stages, unlocking its full benefits without disrupting existing workflows.
Rapid HIL provides a continuous test process that efficiently combines real and virtual ECUs: a perfect fit for modern, agile development processes.
