Mixed Reality: Integrating Steering and Brake Test Benches into Simulator Environments at ETI 2025

Tackling Complexity Together – Rethinking Vehicle Development

The future of mobility won’t be developed in isolation – and Explore-to-Innovate 2025 proved that in the most impressive way. On July 2–3, the Institute of Driver Assistance and Connected Mobility (IFM) at Kempten University of Applied Sciences hosted the fourth edition of its Science and Technology Forum in Benningen. Among the key players: MdynamiX – on site as a technology partner and fully engaged in shaping the future of modern vehicle development through collaboration.

At the center of this year’s event was the main theme: “Mixed Reality in Vehicle Development” – a highly topical approach bridging the gap between simulation and real-world testing. At MdynamiX, one thing is clear: Only through connected expertise, open interfaces, practical solutions and consistent development are we able to effectively manage the growing complexity in the mobility sector.

 

Highlights from Two Days of Innovation and Collaboration

Explore-to-Innovate 2025 offered a compelling blend of hands-on innovation and technical depth. Live demos on the test track showcased state-of-the-art sensor and vehicle technologies in action. Scientific presentations and keynote speeches from leading figures in the automotive industry enriched the program. Panel discussions took deep dives into pressing topics like “Innovation vs. Cultural Paradigms” and “Mixed Reality – How Can Simulation and Testing Be Efficiently Linked?” A technical exhibition rounded off the event, featuring the latest tools, hardware, and software solutions from top industry players.

 

MdynamiX’s Contribution to the Key Topic of Mixed Reality: Integrating Steering and Brake Test Benches into Simulator Environments

MdynamiX presented HiL solutions that combine steering and braking test benches (MXsteerLink and MXbrakeLink) to support a seamless development process. Each system can be used independently for performance testing – but the real innovation lies in the Driver-in-the-Loop integration with HiLs connected to both static and dynamic driving simulators.

In a static environment or on the dynamic driving simulator, the driver interacts directly with the virtual vehicle or function. Input from a real steering wheel is immediately transferred to the simulation and the steering HiL, which then provides real-time feedback torque to the driver. The same applies to braking: Pedal inputs are routed to a wet brake test bench that reacts just like a real vehicle – including ABS and ESC interventions.

Our attribute-based development methodology ensures that testing is carried out using the same maneuvers and track catalogs used in real-world road tests. The HiL environment streams all data into our evaluation and targeting software, MXeval. MXeval automatically evaluates tests (e.g., ISO maneuvers) in real time. In addition, engineers, customers, and managers can subjectively assess functionality using the MXevalApp. This allows you to check how well the functions actually perform for the customer at every stage of development. Any anomalies can thus be identified and rectified at a very early stage. The approach remains consistent, whether it’s for real-world driving tests or HiL environments. Objective KPIs are evaluated using MXeval and correlated with subjective KPIs from the MXevalApp to derive target values. These targets serve as a basis for iterative function development. At each step, MXeval indicates the degree of convergence toward the defined targets.

All components are connected via a real-time environment (EtherCAT interface). This enables realistic feedback on steering forces, brake pedal feel, and vehicle reactions without noticeable latency.

 

Save the Date – Shape the Future with Us

Explore-to-Innovate is more than just an event – It’s a platform that builds bridges:
Between research and application, academia and industry, ideas and implementation.

After the overwhelming success of this year’s forum, one thing is certain: Explore-to-Innovate 2026 will take place again on July 8–9, 2026 – and MdynamiX will be there.

Want to help shape the future of mobility? Stay connected – because innovation thrives where knowledge is shared.