Precise real-time control for a steering feel comparable to that of a vehicle – on test benches and in driving simulators
MXsteerHiL: Modular hardware-in-the-loop test bench for steering system, ECU, and ADAS/AD development in virtual environments
The hardware-in-the-loop steering test bench from MdynamiX forms the basis for precise functional validation and the development of an outstanding steering feel throughout the entire V-model, from the early concept phase through to series production approval.
The MXsteerHiL realistically simulates the steering feel for both conventional steering systems (C-EPS, R-EPS) and steer-by-wire systems for passenger cars and commercial vehicles. Errors and vulnerabilities are identified early on in the virtual environment before they occur during road testing.
By directly integrating real steering systems into the virtual vehicle environment, vehicle dynamics functions and ADAS/AD applications can be specifically developed and validated without relying on prototype vehicles or test tracks. This significantly reduces development effort and costs.
From simulation to reality: Fine-tuning steering systems early in the development process
The MXsteerHiL combines a compact, agile design with a wide range of applications, from high-precision HiL testing in the lab to integration into static and dynamic driving simulators.
At its core is the MXsteerAct, a compact and powerful steering gear actuator that combines precise steering feel and comprehensive HiL functionality in a single system. Engineers can use it for step-by-step validation: from fail-safe and functional tests through performance optimization to complete ADAS/AD functional validation, all while delivering a realistic driving experience.
System Architecture – The MXsteerHiL consists of three main components:
MXsteerAct — Steering Gear Actuator: A compact, high-performance actuator for precise simulation of rack forces. It replicates the real-world tire-road interaction at the steering gear, thereby creating an authentic steering feel on the test bench.
MXsteerMot — Steering Wheel Actuator: The high-precision rotary motor reproduces the virtual driver’s steering angles as well as the desired steering torques. When using the MXsteerLink, the MXsteerMot connects to the feedback unit and sets the desired steering wheel position.
MXsteerCon — Central Control Unit: Combines intelligent model-based real-time control, safety management, signal conditioning, power control, and all communication interfaces in a single unit. Compatible with all EtherCAT-enabled real-time systems such as VI-grade AutoHawk, Concurrent Real-Time iHawk, Vector VN & VT, dSpace Scalexio, IPG Xpack, and more.
HiL test bench for steering racks
Configuration 1: HiL test bench for the complete steering system
The steering system is integrated into the test bench in a true-to-original configuration, enabling precise validation under real-world conditions.
At the core are the and the steering wheel actuator MXsteerMot, which together generate an authentic steering feel. All components are controlled via MXsteerCon, which consolidates intelligent, model-based control along with all safety, measurement, power management and communication interfaces into a single central unit.
The result: a powerful, integrated solution for efficient testing, well-founded analysis and accelerated development of modern steering systems.
Configuration 2: static driving simulator with HiL systems
This setup enables integration of static driving simulators with HiL test systems. Using the virtual Driver-in-the-Loop / Hardware-in-the-Loop coupling modules MXsteerLink and MXbrakeLink, steering system and braking functions can be realistically interconnected – for precise testing, well-founded analysis and an authentic driving experience.
The virtual coupling enables seamless switching of the steering feel between the real steering system in the HiL configuration and a virtual steering model.
Configuration 3: MXsteerHiL Force Increase for Commercial Vehicles
Advanced actuator configuration for electrically and hydraulically assisted commercial vehicle steering systems. Covers the entire steering torque range for trucks and buses. Suitable for developing steering feel and validating ADAS/AD functions on commercial vehicle platforms.
Applications of the MXsteerHiL Steering Test Bench
Steer-by-Wire Development and Validation: The MXsteerHiL enables the development and validation of steer-by-wire systems in a safe, reproducible laboratory environment—before hardware prototypes are available. Specifically with regard to SbW systems, this allows communication issues, the generated steering feel, and adaptive steering angle changes to be identified, tested, and validated.
ADAS and Automated Driving — Functional Validation: Steering functions for ADAS/AD applications, as well as the transition between manual and automated driving, can be tested with real steering hardware in a virtual environment. This enables validation in an early development phase and significantly reduces the effort required for road tests on public roads or test tracks. Lane-keeping and lane-changing assistants, as well as autonomous handover scenarios, are already being developed and functionally validated on the MXsteerHiL.
ECU Application and Software Validation: By using real components, including fully functional bus simulation, the test engineer is able to perform the same application as in the future vehicle. Specifically with regard to steering feel application, the ECU can be adapted to the respective company’s DNA.
Driving Simulator Integration: MXsteerLink connects the MXsteerHiL to static and dynamic driving simulators. The virtual DiL-HiL connection enables real-time switching between physical steering hardware and a virtual steering model—enabling objective measurements and subjective driver assessments within a single test setup.
MXsteerHiL – Key Facts at a Glance
- Efficient development: Testing and optimisation of steering system and ADAS functions directly with the real steering system.
- Realistic steering feel: Enhanced immersion in the driving simulator and laboratory environment.
- Early fault detection: Virtual tests identify faults – for both conventional and steer-by-wire systems.
- Reliable analysis: Consistent subjective and objective assessments in the virtual environment.
- Flexible calibration: ECU calibration identical to the vehicle application.
- Modular design: Test benches adapt to individual requirements.
- Plug & Play: Maximum efficiency through straightforward operation.
- Compatible: Seamless integration with MXeval and all common development tools.
Advantages of MXsteerHiL
- Wide application range: Ideal for commercial vehicles and passenger cars, compatible with all types of steering systems.
- High precision: Accurate control even at small steering inputs and during high-frequency tests.
- Maximum flexibility: Seamless integration into various real-time environments and simulation packages – perfectly suited to different test requirements.
- Scalable design: From compact setups to large-scale systems – adapts to your requirements.
- Comprehensive test capabilities: Supports HiL and DiL testing for realistic driver interactions and meaningful results.
See for yourself
Contact us today and try out our systems for free, with no obligation. Move your test drives from the road to your office and see for yourself how well we perform.