As a major extension to its automotive simulation models (ASM) product line, dSPACE has introduced a new category of simulation models. The new models, referred to as ASM Operator Versions, are designed for function engineers and users who require particularly easy-to-use simulation tools to design mechatronic systems. For use in the early development phases, the models have been optimized for PC-based simulation with Simulink, said dSpace.
The functionality, simulation quality and parameterization options of the ASM Operator Versions are equivalent to dSPACE's original ASM products, whose range of applications run from function design to hardware-in-the-loop testing. The component-based structure consisting of Simulink libraries is also identical to that of the earlier ASMs. The components are accessible in the model so that their input/output behavior can be studied, stated dSpace.
The fundamental difference of these lower-cost models lies in the implementation of the library components. All components are freely accessible in the original ASMs, even at the lowest implementation level. The Operator Versions, however, encapsule separate systems, which ensures good performance during Simulink simulation, according to the developer.
The first ASM Operator Versions to become available will be for vehicle dynamics and chassis applications. Typical possible applications are closed-loop tests of controller functions with model-in-the-loop (MIL) and/or software-in-the-loop (SIL), and also vehicle dynamics tests and parameter studies.
This new model category is compatible with the ASMs and can be parameterized in ModelDesk, dSPACE parameterization software. Exchanging data sets (model parameters, road descriptions, maneuver descriptions) between the model categories and reusing them is easy, which supports a seamless development process, dSpace said.
dSPACE Inc. • (248) 295-4704 • www.dspace.com
PROTOCOL DECODER SPEEDS DEBUGGING OF EMBEDDED BUS TRAFFIC
By adding the PacketPresenter protocol decoder to its suite of electronics debugging tools, Southern Calif.-based CWAV Inc. has made significant enhancements to its USBee DX logic analyzer/oscilloscope. According to CWAV, the PacketPresenter feature displays bus traffic that is transmitted between electronics system components in a graphical, easy to understand packet format, speeding up debugging and enabling quick assessment of communication data. The PacketPresenter packetizes the raw bus data, removes encoding, parses it into fields and displays it in a customizable format, going far beyond simple bus decoders that only output byte values. It translates standard traces taken by the USBee DX logic analyzer into graphical communication packets, and automatically parses and formats critical data extracted from raw bus traffic. Consequently, it presents this data in a clear and simple manner, said the developer. The PacketPresenter supports I2C, SPI, ASYNC, CAN, USB, Parallel, Sync Serial, 1-wire, I2S, PS2, and SMBus databuses. Unlike competing protocol decoders that understand only a single protocol, the PacketPresenter is customizable to fit each custom and unique embedded bus protocol using a simple and intuitive configurable PacketPresenter definition file. And unique to the USBee DX, the PacketPresenter gives designers a detailed look into how the packet communications on each embedded bus relates to the actual voltage-versus-time waveforms of the bus signals. The PacketPresenter is included as a standard feature of the USBee DX test pod and is a free upgrade for existing USBee DX owners, said the maker. Software for the USBee DX is available online at www.usbee.com and runs in demonstration mode without a test pod attached to a PC.
The USBee DX test pod is priced at $1,495.00 and comes standard with all necessary cables, clips, leads, software, and accessories. The USBee DX includes the PacketPresenter for viewing bus communication clearly and the USBee data extractors for streaming and unlimited capture of USB, CAN, SYNC, SPI, I2C, I2S, SM Bus, 1-wire, Parallel, Serial, and PS/2 bus traffic. CWAV, Inc.
(951) 694-6808 • www.usbee.com