February 04, 2013. With the introduction of its new Ethernet Configuration Package, dSPACE is claiming to be the first company to enable the real-time simulation of service-oriented communication in Ethernet networks of electronic control units (ECUs). Such networks play an important role in modern driver-assistance systems, new comfort and entertainment functions, and numerous other functionalities.
The new dSPACE Ethernet Configuration Package consists of two components: The dSPACE Ethernet Configuration Tool and the RTI Ethernet Configuration Blockset:
- The dSPACE Ethernet Configuration Tool lets users configure a dSPACE system as a simulation node in a service-based Ethernet network. After a FIBEX 4 file is imported, the tool displays the FIBEX (Field Bus Exchange Format) elements in a clearly organized tree structure. Users can easily select any of the elements for the simulation via drag and drop. The most important attributes of the FIBEX elements are also displayed in structured views.
- The RTI Ethernet Configuration Blockset provides a simple graphic method for modeling service-based communication in MathWorks' MATLAB and Simulink. For example, users can design their own functions to perform restbus simulation for Ethernet/IP communication.
The new Ethernet Configuration Package expands dSPACE's portfolio of Ethernet development tools, which includes the DS1006 Processor Board for hardware-in-the-loop simulation and the MicroAutoBox for rapid control prototyping. This tool portfolio equips dSPACE customers to meet the challenges of developing Ethernet-based vehicle networks.
See related article: “It's time to clarify autonomous-vehicle laws.”