He duly identified the E/E components and the simulation environment required for an alternative test rig set-up which can be paired with a master module of the tailgate system. “I came up with three designs which differ in terms of the electronic components which are physically installed and those which are simulative,” explained Tom. “I then evaluated the designs with regard to the achievable percentage of load, level of functional maturity, launch costs and future expansion options.”
Tom’s solution can initially be used for the development and validation of the pilot function “open/close tailgate” and will enable the gradual retrofitting of all the other exterior functions in a defined sequence. The design is based on the scalable E3 1.2 electronic architecture of the VW Group therefore it can also be used for the development and validation of future vehicle projects.
The cross-domain signal routing of the tailgate system in the functional validation context presented a particular challenge for Tom when working on the solution. “My colleagues helped me with real-life insights and explanations using the full-vehicle HIL by way of illustration.” Tom also took advice from the PSW team on the definition of the required E/E components. Having completed his bachelor’s degree, Tom is now embarking on his master’s degree studies.
