VALIDATE - Basis for New Sophisticated Research Platform for Virtual Development of Vehicle Systems 2011-01-1012

The Stuttgart Driving Simulator currently under construction at the University of Stuttgart makes out the main component of the University's new automotive research platform. The facility will be one of the largest of its kind in Europe. The simulator is based on a powerful eight axes motion system to realistically recreate the linear and rotary motion as perceived by the driver during a real trip. To add further value to the driving simulator, it is designed to house a real vehicle which can be easily exchanged - from small passenger cars up to large luxury sedan vehicles as well as SUVs. To assure a sound testing environment, the driving simulator features a realistic graphical and acoustic representation of the vehicle environment such as roadway, environment, and traffic. This is achieved through a complex surround visualization system with very high level of detail as well as an advanced spatial acoustic noise generator. Additional to this, high-quality dynamic force feedback systems at the control elements (pedals, steering wheel, gear stick, etc.) ensures a realistic vehicle and driver milieu.

The research platform currently set up is predominantly specialized for energetic topics within the automotive research and development and hence well suited for contemporary topics like sustainable mobility. A major research topic will cover the field of driver influences. With the measurement vehicle, as a further component of the research platform, a first, for German conditions representative study, has been conducted. The acquisition of the driving resistances and power flows in IC, the onboard electrical system, auxiliaries, exhaust system, and cooling system during real drives confirms the strong influence of the driver on the fuel consumption and thus the CO₂ emissions. On average, the driver accounts for a 6.5% fuel consumption variation and in a standard situation variations in fuel consumption up to 65% due to driving style have been measured. Based on the knowledge about the saving potential in various driving situations, appropriate assistance systems can be designed and qualitatively and quantitatively tested and verified in the new driving simulator environment.