VI-grade Unveils Revolutionary Virtual Proving Ground for VI-WorldSim
Udine, Italy, July 18th , 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the launch of its groundbreaking VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground for VI-WorldSim.
The VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground is a comprehensive digital testing facility, meticulously designed to meet the diverse needs of automotive engineers and researchers. With its vast array of features and testing scenarios, it promises to significantly reduce development time and costs while enhancing the overall quality and safety of vehicles.
Key features of the VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground include:
The VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground is fully integrated with VI-WorldSim, the company's advanced simulation software, allowing for seamless implementation into existing development workflows. This integration ensures that automotive companies can leverage their current investments in VI-grade technologies while accessing this cutting-edge virtual proving ground.
The launch of the VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground comes at a critical time for the automotive industry, as manufacturers face increasing pressure to develop safer, more efficient, and technologically advanced vehicles in shorter timeframes. This virtual environment is expected to play a crucial role in meeting these challenges head-on.
For more information about the VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground, follow this link.
The VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground is a comprehensive digital testing facility, meticulously designed to meet the diverse needs of automotive engineers and researchers. With its vast array of features and testing scenarios, it promises to significantly reduce development time and costs while enhancing the overall quality and safety of vehicles.
Key features of the VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground include:
- High-speed Ring: An 8.6 km track with four lanes and a maximum banking angle of 11 degrees, perfect for high-speed testing and aerodynamic evaluations.
- EU/USA Highways: A 2 km stretch simulating both European and American highway conditions, enabling cross-market vehicle development.
- Specialized Testing Areas: Including ride lanes with various surface types, a 3.2 km handling track, a 1.15 km rally track, and a 2.4 km country road based on real-world laser scan data.
- ADAS Testing: A dedicated area for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems evaluation, crucial for the development of autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles.
- Diverse Road Conditions: Featuring ramps with varying gradients, event lanes with different surface irregularities, and specialized areas for split friction coefficient testing and wet condition simulations.
The VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground is fully integrated with VI-WorldSim, the company's advanced simulation software, allowing for seamless implementation into existing development workflows. This integration ensures that automotive companies can leverage their current investments in VI-grade technologies while accessing this cutting-edge virtual proving ground.
The launch of the VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground comes at a critical time for the automotive industry, as manufacturers face increasing pressure to develop safer, more efficient, and technologically advanced vehicles in shorter timeframes. This virtual environment is expected to play a crucial role in meeting these challenges head-on.
For more information about the VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground, follow this link.
German version available here
VI-grade and STEP Lab Announce Strategic Partnership for Advanced Mechanical Hardware-in-the-Loop Solutions
Darmstadt, Germany, July 3rd, 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced a strategic partnership with STEP Lab, an industry leader in the design and manufacture of static, dynamic and impact testing machines. This collaboration aims to provide a comprehensive solution in Mechanical Hardware-in-the-Loop (mHiL) for shock absorbers in automotive applications.
The partnership between VI-grade and STEP Lab is designed to provide the market with a turnkey solution that addresses the challenges of integrating advanced technology into industrial applications. By combining the expertise of both companies, the collaboration aims to deliver a fully integrated mHiL solution for shock absorbers, streamlining the development process and reducing the complexity and time required for implementing advanced testing systems in the automotive industry. This comprehensive approach also includes active and semi-active suspension systems and advanced control strategies, leveraging VI-grade's real-time AutoHawk platform and robust software stack.
Key Benefits for Customers:
“We are excited to enter this strategic partnership with STEP Lab to provide a comprehensive Mechanical Hardware-in-the-Loop solution for automotive shock absorbers”, commented Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade. “This partnership will allow us to offer our customers a unique, integrated solution that enhances development efficiency and reduces time-to-market. By leveraging Step Lab's expertise in mechanical testing and our advanced software capabilities, we can deliver a reliable and cost-effective solution that meets the evolving needs of the automotive industry,"
To see the partnership in action, watch this demo video of a Damper-in-the-Loop system – real-life component testing with VI-CarRealTime on AutoHawk. This demonstration was presented by STEP Lab at VI-grade's 2024 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit in May 2024 at SimCenter Udine.
The partnership between VI-grade and STEP Lab is designed to provide the market with a turnkey solution that addresses the challenges of integrating advanced technology into industrial applications. By combining the expertise of both companies, the collaboration aims to deliver a fully integrated mHiL solution for shock absorbers, streamlining the development process and reducing the complexity and time required for implementing advanced testing systems in the automotive industry. This comprehensive approach also includes active and semi-active suspension systems and advanced control strategies, leveraging VI-grade's real-time AutoHawk platform and robust software stack.
Key Benefits for Customers:
- Time Efficiency: Customers will benefit from interacting with a single partner responsible for the entire system, significantly reducing development times compared to setting up the final solution with multiple partners.
- Cost Efficiency: Project costs are optimized through a pre-existing, functional solution, eliminating the need for extensive individual setups.
- Application Reliability: Having previously collaborated on similar solutions, VI-grade and Step Lab ensure a reliable and tested approach, enhancing overall project success.
- Unified Project Leadership: Customers will interact with the same partner for all aspects of the project, from preliminary definition to final commissioning, ensuring consistency and clarity throughout the process.
“We are excited to enter this strategic partnership with STEP Lab to provide a comprehensive Mechanical Hardware-in-the-Loop solution for automotive shock absorbers”, commented Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade. “This partnership will allow us to offer our customers a unique, integrated solution that enhances development efficiency and reduces time-to-market. By leveraging Step Lab's expertise in mechanical testing and our advanced software capabilities, we can deliver a reliable and cost-effective solution that meets the evolving needs of the automotive industry,"
To see the partnership in action, watch this demo video of a Damper-in-the-Loop system – real-life component testing with VI-CarRealTime on AutoHawk. This demonstration was presented by STEP Lab at VI-grade's 2024 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit in May 2024 at SimCenter Udine.
German version available here
World’s First Zero Prototype Lab Featuring VI-grade’s Driving Simulator Technology Inaugurated by EDAG Group
Wolfsburg, Germany, June 27th , 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the inauguration of the first-ever Zero Prototype Lab by the renowned engineering services provider, EDAG Group, in Wolfsburg, Germany. This pioneering facility features VI-grade’s advanced DiM500 FSS (Driver-in-Motion Full Spectrum) Simulator, a state-of-the-art, real-time Driver-in-the-Loop simulator that delivers a comprehensive experience with precise motion, vibration, and sound ranging from 0 to 20kHz. As a complement to the DiM500 FSS, the lab also features VI-grade’s COMPACT Full Spectrum Simulator and an additional AutoHawk Hardware-in-the-Loop platform, which can seamlessly connect driving simulators to both existing and future hardware-in-the-loop systems.
The Zero Prototype Lab is available to anyone in the global automotive market interested in embarking on the Road to Zero Prototypes with virtual test drives and subjective evaluations of new vehicles. Critical functions, such as autonomous driving, steering, braking, and acceleration, can be tested in conjunction with driving systems. This innovative approach reduces the need for costly prototypes and shortens development cycles. Additionally, it enables the optimization of driving dynamics in virtual environments, independent of seasonal weather constraints. Overall, the lab’s operations will contribute to reducing material and resource usage, thus minimizing the CO2 footprint of the vehicle development process.
"With the opening of the Zero Prototype Lab, we are pioneering a new era in vehicle development. Technology developers and vehicle manufacturers worldwide can now streamline their development processes, working faster, more efficiently, and more sustainably through precise simulation," explains Harald Keller, CEO of the EDAG Group. "In this way, we are driving forward the pervasive change in vehicle development and the mobility industry, fostering forward-looking value creation."
“We are proud that our Driver-in-Motion Full-Spectrum Simulator is at the heart of the new EDAG Zero Prototype Lab,” adds Guido Bairati, Managing Director of VI-grade. "With the DiM FSS, our most powerful simulator to date, EDAG is taking its engineering services to an unprecedented level. The DiM FSS simulator is a quantum leap in experimental simulation, seamlessly integrating driving dynamics, motion, vibration and sound into an immersive experience. I am looking forward to the exciting customer projects that will be created in this pioneering facility and will shape the mobility of tomorrow.
For more information on the EDAG Zero Prototype Lab, please visit EDAG Zero Prototype Lab | EDAG Group
The Zero Prototype Lab is available to anyone in the global automotive market interested in embarking on the Road to Zero Prototypes with virtual test drives and subjective evaluations of new vehicles. Critical functions, such as autonomous driving, steering, braking, and acceleration, can be tested in conjunction with driving systems. This innovative approach reduces the need for costly prototypes and shortens development cycles. Additionally, it enables the optimization of driving dynamics in virtual environments, independent of seasonal weather constraints. Overall, the lab’s operations will contribute to reducing material and resource usage, thus minimizing the CO2 footprint of the vehicle development process.
"With the opening of the Zero Prototype Lab, we are pioneering a new era in vehicle development. Technology developers and vehicle manufacturers worldwide can now streamline their development processes, working faster, more efficiently, and more sustainably through precise simulation," explains Harald Keller, CEO of the EDAG Group. "In this way, we are driving forward the pervasive change in vehicle development and the mobility industry, fostering forward-looking value creation."
“We are proud that our Driver-in-Motion Full-Spectrum Simulator is at the heart of the new EDAG Zero Prototype Lab,” adds Guido Bairati, Managing Director of VI-grade. "With the DiM FSS, our most powerful simulator to date, EDAG is taking its engineering services to an unprecedented level. The DiM FSS simulator is a quantum leap in experimental simulation, seamlessly integrating driving dynamics, motion, vibration and sound into an immersive experience. I am looking forward to the exciting customer projects that will be created in this pioneering facility and will shape the mobility of tomorrow.
For more information on the EDAG Zero Prototype Lab, please visit EDAG Zero Prototype Lab | EDAG Group
German version available here
VI-grade Launches Driver-in-Motion Full Spectrum Simulator – A Quantum Leap in Realism
Stuttgart, Germany, June 5th , 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the launch of its Driver-in-Motion Full Spectrum (DiM FSS) Simulator, which was exclusively debuted at VI-grade’s ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit in May. This groundbreaking technology is a true game-changer in experimental simulation, earning VI-grade the Automotive Testing Technology International Award for “Hardware Innovation of the Year.” This prestigious award was presented to VI-grade on June 4th at the 2024 Automotive Testing Expo in Stuttgart, Germany.
The Driver-in-Motion Full Spectrum Dynamic Simulator (DiM FSS) is a real-time, Driver-in-the-Loop simulator that offers a comprehensive experience of accurate motion, vibration, and sound over a complete spectrum from 0 to 20kHz. It is the first simulator capable of generating full vehicle motion with 9 degrees of freedom over a multi-meter workspace, paired with precise sound and vibration, creating a fully immersive experience. This innovation results from VI-grade's proven expertise in vehicle dynamics and NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) simulation.
Historically, vehicle dynamics and NVH evaluations were conducted separately, even though driving integrates dynamics, ride quality, sound, and vibration. The most effective evaluation method combines these elements into a single simulation. The DiM FSS addresses this unmet demand through its multi-stage system, capturing vehicle dynamics, motion, vibration, and sound for a holistic, realistic experience.
To achieve this, the DiM FSS utilizes a three-stage approach:
"I am thrilled to announce the launch of our DiM FSS Simulator, marking a significant advancement in our multi-attribute journey," commented David Bogema, Senior Director, Product Management at VI-grade. "The DiM FSS Simulator represents a quantum leap in experimental simulation, seamlessly integrating vehicle dynamics, motion, vibration, and sound into one immersive experience. We are also proud of the rapid commercial success it has already achieved. Two units have already been sold, with the first one to be delivered to our customer in a few weeks."
The Driver-in-Motion Full Spectrum Dynamic Simulator (DiM FSS) is a real-time, Driver-in-the-Loop simulator that offers a comprehensive experience of accurate motion, vibration, and sound over a complete spectrum from 0 to 20kHz. It is the first simulator capable of generating full vehicle motion with 9 degrees of freedom over a multi-meter workspace, paired with precise sound and vibration, creating a fully immersive experience. This innovation results from VI-grade's proven expertise in vehicle dynamics and NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) simulation.
Historically, vehicle dynamics and NVH evaluations were conducted separately, even though driving integrates dynamics, ride quality, sound, and vibration. The most effective evaluation method combines these elements into a single simulation. The DiM FSS addresses this unmet demand through its multi-stage system, capturing vehicle dynamics, motion, vibration, and sound for a holistic, realistic experience.
To achieve this, the DiM FSS utilizes a three-stage approach:
- Lower Stage: Delivers primary vehicle motion.
- Middle Stage: Provides full 6 DOF motion.
- Hyperdock Stage: Features a highly optimized carbon-fiber cockpit that delivers high-frequency vibration through transducers at key driver touchpoints, while sound is provided through in-cockpit speakers or headphones.
"I am thrilled to announce the launch of our DiM FSS Simulator, marking a significant advancement in our multi-attribute journey," commented David Bogema, Senior Director, Product Management at VI-grade. "The DiM FSS Simulator represents a quantum leap in experimental simulation, seamlessly integrating vehicle dynamics, motion, vibration, and sound into one immersive experience. We are also proud of the rapid commercial success it has already achieved. Two units have already been sold, with the first one to be delivered to our customer in a few weeks."
German version available here
VI-grade partners with Rohde & Schwarz to enhance driver-in-the-loop ADAS/AD testing
Darmstadt, Germany, May 29th , 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced a strategic partnership with Rohde & Schwarz, a global technology group dedicated to creating a safer and more connected world. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the field of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems / Automated Driving (ADAS / AD) testing.
The core of this partnership involves interfacing the advanced Rohde & Schwarz automotive radar test system (RTS) with VI-grade's suite of driving simulators. This integration provides a seamless testing environment, combining simulation models, driving simulators for Driver-in-the-Loop, enabling comprehensive testing of real radar sensors within a virtual setting. The extremely versatile RTS consists of the R&S AREG800A automotive radar echo generator together with the R&S QAT100 advanced antenna array and provides vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers with the ability to simulate ADAS/AD scenarios like those defined in the Euro NCAP in a precise and repeatable way.
The aim of this collaboration is to provide an integrated solution that facilitates ADAS/AD testing in a controlled laboratory environment. This combined approach allows automotive manufacturers to evaluate vehicle performance and safety features more efficiently and effectively, thereby reducing the need for extensive real-world testing. The benefits for customers are significant: by testing real radar systems in a virtual environment, manufacturers can conduct safer and more cost-effective development processes. This method minimizes the risks associated with on-road testing of real prototypes, enhancing safety and lowering development costs.
"Partnering with VI-grade for driver-in-the-loop test is another important step to support our customers in all phases during the development of radar sensors from early research with chip suppliers to R&D and production at TIER1s and OEMs. We are proud that VI-grade selected Rohde & Schwarz products to complete their test portfolio” commented Stephane Blanchon Business Development Manager Automotive for Southern Europe at Rohde & Schwarz.
“We are excited to enter this strategic partnership with Rohde & Schwarz. By integrating their advanced automotive radar test system with our driving simulators, we are providing a comprehensive solution that addresses the complex challenges of ADAS development, ensuring vehicles are equipped with the most robust and reliable safety systems”, commented Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade.
The core of this partnership involves interfacing the advanced Rohde & Schwarz automotive radar test system (RTS) with VI-grade's suite of driving simulators. This integration provides a seamless testing environment, combining simulation models, driving simulators for Driver-in-the-Loop, enabling comprehensive testing of real radar sensors within a virtual setting. The extremely versatile RTS consists of the R&S AREG800A automotive radar echo generator together with the R&S QAT100 advanced antenna array and provides vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers with the ability to simulate ADAS/AD scenarios like those defined in the Euro NCAP in a precise and repeatable way.
The aim of this collaboration is to provide an integrated solution that facilitates ADAS/AD testing in a controlled laboratory environment. This combined approach allows automotive manufacturers to evaluate vehicle performance and safety features more efficiently and effectively, thereby reducing the need for extensive real-world testing. The benefits for customers are significant: by testing real radar systems in a virtual environment, manufacturers can conduct safer and more cost-effective development processes. This method minimizes the risks associated with on-road testing of real prototypes, enhancing safety and lowering development costs.
"Partnering with VI-grade for driver-in-the-loop test is another important step to support our customers in all phases during the development of radar sensors from early research with chip suppliers to R&D and production at TIER1s and OEMs. We are proud that VI-grade selected Rohde & Schwarz products to complete their test portfolio” commented Stephane Blanchon Business Development Manager Automotive for Southern Europe at Rohde & Schwarz.
“We are excited to enter this strategic partnership with Rohde & Schwarz. By integrating their advanced automotive radar test system with our driving simulators, we are providing a comprehensive solution that addresses the complex challenges of ADAS development, ensuring vehicles are equipped with the most robust and reliable safety systems”, commented Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade.
German version available here
VI-grade’s 2024 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit, with over 1,200 Attendees, Marks Record Success
Udine, Italy, May 23rd, 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the official recap of its record-breaking 2024 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit. Held from May 14-16 at VI-grade’s SimCenter in Udine, Italy, the event achieved record attendance with 300 in-person participants and over 900 virtual attendees via LinkedIn and SAE’s live-streamed webinar platform, marking the largest gathering to date for VI-grade’s global driving simulation community.
The Summit’s theme, ‘Join us on the Road to Zero Prototypes’ encapsulated the transition towards a prototype-free development process and virtual sign-off, acknowledging the significant value inherent in the process itself. Achieving Zero Prototypes remains the ultimate development goal, and VI-grade customers successfully demonstrated the significant progress they’ve already made along this journey during the three-day event.
According to the post-event survey, 96% of attendees plan to return to the ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit next year, a sentiment echoed by the overwhelmingly positive feedback received:
“Although I had no doubts it would be just as great as the 2023 edition, your team delivered yet another truly fascinating event that ran like clockwork. I was overwhelmed by the time I got back with all the exciting conversations over the course of the week.“ - Charlie Smith, Virtual Vehicle Team (EG/PV), Bentley Motors
“A very successful event with a well-chosen group of attendees, exciting presentations, and plenty of time for intensive technical discussions. The experience of the most relevant and latest technologies around the simulator is unique.”- Jonas Grötzinger, Senior Expert in Vehicle Motion & Performance Vehicles at EDAG Group.
The Summit’s theme, ‘Join us on the Road to Zero Prototypes’ encapsulated the transition towards a prototype-free development process and virtual sign-off, acknowledging the significant value inherent in the process itself. Achieving Zero Prototypes remains the ultimate development goal, and VI-grade customers successfully demonstrated the significant progress they’ve already made along this journey during the three-day event.
According to the post-event survey, 96% of attendees plan to return to the ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit next year, a sentiment echoed by the overwhelmingly positive feedback received:
“Although I had no doubts it would be just as great as the 2023 edition, your team delivered yet another truly fascinating event that ran like clockwork. I was overwhelmed by the time I got back with all the exciting conversations over the course of the week.“ - Charlie Smith, Virtual Vehicle Team (EG/PV), Bentley Motors
“A very successful event with a well-chosen group of attendees, exciting presentations, and plenty of time for intensive technical discussions. The experience of the most relevant and latest technologies around the simulator is unique.”- Jonas Grötzinger, Senior Expert in Vehicle Motion & Performance Vehicles at EDAG Group.
2024 ZPS SPEAKERS AND HIGHLIGHTS
The 2024 ZPS featured 25 keynote and technical presentations along with three engaging podium discussions led by renowned simulation thought leaders from the global automotive industry. These industry experts demonstrated how they leverage VI-grade’s simulation, driving simulators, and Hardware-in-the-Loop technologies to accelerate new vehicle development, bringing them ever close to realizing the vision of Zero Prototypes.
Day 1 of the summit highlighted presentations from market leading companies such as Applus+ IDIADA, Automobili Lamborghini, Bugatti Rimac, EDAG Group, HBK, Mahindra & Mahindra, Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Benz, Politecnico di Milano. A panel discussion on the future of customer experience in automotive technology included experts from Applus+ IDIADA, Automobili Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche AG, and Virtual Vehicle Research Institute.
On Day 2, attendees were treated to presentations from Bentley, Giti Tire, Goodyear, Hitachi Astemo, Honda R&D Europe, HORIBA MIRA, Meccanica 42, MegaRide and Multimatic. Discussion panels focused on building synergies between automotive OEMs and suppliers, featuring experts from Bosch, Ferrari, Goodyear, HORIBA MIRA, and HTW Berlin. Additional panel discussions highlighted advancements in ADAS via driving simulator calibration with speakers from Automobili Lamborghini, Ford Werke, Mercedes-AMG, Porsche, and VI-grade.
Summit proceedings an video content will be shared on VI-grade's Website and YouTube channel as it becomes available. The official after movie recap of the event can be found at this link.
Day 1 of the summit highlighted presentations from market leading companies such as Applus+ IDIADA, Automobili Lamborghini, Bugatti Rimac, EDAG Group, HBK, Mahindra & Mahindra, Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Benz, Politecnico di Milano. A panel discussion on the future of customer experience in automotive technology included experts from Applus+ IDIADA, Automobili Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche AG, and Virtual Vehicle Research Institute.
On Day 2, attendees were treated to presentations from Bentley, Giti Tire, Goodyear, Hitachi Astemo, Honda R&D Europe, HORIBA MIRA, Meccanica 42, MegaRide and Multimatic. Discussion panels focused on building synergies between automotive OEMs and suppliers, featuring experts from Bosch, Ferrari, Goodyear, HORIBA MIRA, and HTW Berlin. Additional panel discussions highlighted advancements in ADAS via driving simulator calibration with speakers from Automobili Lamborghini, Ford Werke, Mercedes-AMG, Porsche, and VI-grade.
Summit proceedings an video content will be shared on VI-grade's Website and YouTube channel as it becomes available. The official after movie recap of the event can be found at this link.
LAUNCH OF THE DRIVER-IN-MOTION FULL SPECTRUM SIMULATOR
A significant highlight of the 2024 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit was the launch of the new DiM Full Spectrum Simulator (DiM FSS). This new simulator captivated attendees with its revolutionary ability to deliver full vehicle motion, vibration, and sound in a single immersive experience. Building on the success of the 2023 COMPACT Full Spectrum Simulator, the DiM FSS is the first real-time, driver-in-the-loop simulator to provide accurate sensory integration across the complete spectrum from 0 to 20kHz. Employing a three-stage system to deliver precise vehicle dynamics, it also includes a state-of-the-art “Hyperdock” cockpit equipped with vibration transducers at key driver touchpoints.
The Hyperdock's innovative design significantly reduces inertia by 70%, lowers the center of mass by 200mm, and increases structural stiffness by a factor of 10. These enhancements result in unparalleled realism and immersion, allowing engineers and developers to evaluate virtual prototypes in a manner that closely mirrors real-world driving conditions. The DiM FSS will benefit a wide range of applications, from vehicle dynamics and motorsports to ride comfort, ADAS, and autonomous vehicle testing.
The Hyperdock's innovative design significantly reduces inertia by 70%, lowers the center of mass by 200mm, and increases structural stiffness by a factor of 10. These enhancements result in unparalleled realism and immersion, allowing engineers and developers to evaluate virtual prototypes in a manner that closely mirrors real-world driving conditions. The DiM FSS will benefit a wide range of applications, from vehicle dynamics and motorsports to ride comfort, ADAS, and autonomous vehicle testing.
EVENT METRICS AND SPONSORSHIP
"The 2024 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit was an extraordinary success, revealing impressive metrics. We had over 1,200 connected attendees, including 300 in-person attendees from 117 automotive companies. We delivered 556 interactive demo sessions over two days, showcasing our vision of Zero Prototypes through our simulation software, driving simulators, and hardware-in-the-loop technologies. We heard from 25 high-level keynote and technical presentations on how our customers are using our tools to achieve virtual sign-off and reduce reliance on physical prototypes. And of course, none of this would have been possible without the support of our 26 sponsoring partners,” commented Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade.
VI-grade extends its gratitude to the following industry partners for their support and sponsorship of the 2024 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit:
VI-grade extends its gratitude to the following industry partners for their support and sponsorship of the 2024 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit:
- Diamond: EDAG Group
- Platinum: Applus+ IDIADA, HORIBA MIRA, Meccanica 42, MegaRide, SAGInoMIYA
- Gold: Barco, Concurrent Real-Time, cosin scientific software, Dassault Systèmes, exemplar, HBK, MdynamiX, Moog, Multimatic Inc., Stackpole Engineering
- Silver: 3D Mapping Solutions, Fraunhofer ITWM, project syntropy, Rohde & Schwarz, Smart Eye, STEP Lab
- Bronze: BE CAE & Test, JEDAi, rFpro, Screenline
- Media Partners: ATZ, Automotive Testing Technology International, SAE Media Group Vehicle Dynamics International
German version available here
VI-grade Partners with Mcity to Enhance Automotive Research with Cutting-Edge Simulation Technology
Ann Arbor, MI, USA, May 7, 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced a strategic partnership with Mcity, the University of Michigan’s renowned hub for advanced mobility research. This partnership marks a significant step forward in advancing automotive research capabilities through the use of VI-grade's cutting-edge simulator technology.
A crucial component of this collaboration involves VI-grade’s COMPACT Simulator, which serves as the perfect solution for enhancing simulation activities and testing models in real-time while also providing a subjective experience. Equipped with VI-grade's comprehensive software stack, including VI-WorldSim, this state-of-the-art simulator empowers Mcity's research teams to conduct in-depth, human-centered studies of autonomous, safety, and connected technologies.
"We are excited to add VI-grade's COMPACT Simulator as another tool in our makerspace, which also includes the Mcity Test Facility, a proving ground for advanced mobility vehicles and technologies", said Mcity Research Director Greg Stevens, on the addition of the COMPACT Simulator. "This simulator will open up new opportunities for our researchers to gain invaluable insights into vehicle behavior and performance. Unlike conventional desktop simulations, the COMPACT Simulator provides a first-person experiential perspective, allowing researchers to directly engage with the model and perceive its dynamics.”
By providing a COMPACT Simulator to Mcity, VI-grade also becomes a member of Mcity, which is a public-private research partnership that brings together industry, government and academia to help make transportation safer, cleaner, more equitable and more accessible.
"At VI-grade, we are dedicated to fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of automotive research," added Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade. "Our COMPACT Simulator is the optimal tool for Mcity to enhance their research capabilities, develop and test specific control algorithms, and introduce their students to driving simulator technologies.”
The partnership between Mcity and VI-grade underscores a shared commitment to advancing automotive research through the integration of cutting-edge simulation technologies, promising significant advancements in the understanding and development of future mobility solutions.
A crucial component of this collaboration involves VI-grade’s COMPACT Simulator, which serves as the perfect solution for enhancing simulation activities and testing models in real-time while also providing a subjective experience. Equipped with VI-grade's comprehensive software stack, including VI-WorldSim, this state-of-the-art simulator empowers Mcity's research teams to conduct in-depth, human-centered studies of autonomous, safety, and connected technologies.
"We are excited to add VI-grade's COMPACT Simulator as another tool in our makerspace, which also includes the Mcity Test Facility, a proving ground for advanced mobility vehicles and technologies", said Mcity Research Director Greg Stevens, on the addition of the COMPACT Simulator. "This simulator will open up new opportunities for our researchers to gain invaluable insights into vehicle behavior and performance. Unlike conventional desktop simulations, the COMPACT Simulator provides a first-person experiential perspective, allowing researchers to directly engage with the model and perceive its dynamics.”
By providing a COMPACT Simulator to Mcity, VI-grade also becomes a member of Mcity, which is a public-private research partnership that brings together industry, government and academia to help make transportation safer, cleaner, more equitable and more accessible.
"At VI-grade, we are dedicated to fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of automotive research," added Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade. "Our COMPACT Simulator is the optimal tool for Mcity to enhance their research capabilities, develop and test specific control algorithms, and introduce their students to driving simulator technologies.”
The partnership between Mcity and VI-grade underscores a shared commitment to advancing automotive research through the integration of cutting-edge simulation technologies, promising significant advancements in the understanding and development of future mobility solutions.
German version available here
Bentley Motors Ltd. Elevates Digital Development with VI-grade's COMPACT FSS Simulator
Darmstadt, Germany, May 2nd , 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced that Bentley Motors Ltd., the epitome of luxury and performance in the automotive world, has chosen VI-grade's state-of-the-art COMPACT FSS Simulator technology to enhance their digital development capabilities.
Bentley engineers strategically chose the COMPACT FSS for its unique Multi-Attribute Simulation technology, enabling a comprehensive assessment of their vehicles in Motion, Vibration, and Sound. The decision was reinforced by Bentley's trust in VI-grade, the proven performance of their solutions, the impressive results obtained at VI-grade SimCenter during the evaluation phase of the simulator, as well as the holistic approach offered by it.
In detail, the COMPACT FSS Simulator will play a pivotal role in building virtual prototypes of Bentley's future BEV models. Key applications include Vehicle NVH development, Ride and Handling tuning, thorough evaluation of primary and secondary ride comfort, and contribution to the overall sound experience for interior noise assessment through multi-attribute simulation.
Charlie Smith, Virtual Vehicle Engineer at Bentley Motors, emphasized, “The COMPACT FSS is viewed as a strategic step towards accelerating our development cycle, minimizing reliance on physical prototypes, and enhancing simulation capabilities. This cutting-edge technology will prominently feature in Bentley's new Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) Hub soon to be completed in Crewe, UK.”
Alessio Lombardi, VI-grade EMEA and Americas Sales Director, commented, “This success reaffirms VI-grade's commitment to providing advanced solutions and fortifying our partnership with Bentley Motors Ltd. We are excited to contribute to Bentley's journey of digital development, driving excellence in the automotive industry.”
Charlie Smith will also be giving a keynote presentation at VI-grade's ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit, to be held May 14-16 at SimCenter Udine. The presentation will focus on the importance of a "virtual first" mindset in engineering for the next generation of Bentley vehicles. For the full conference agenda and more information about the event, please follow this link.
Bentley engineers strategically chose the COMPACT FSS for its unique Multi-Attribute Simulation technology, enabling a comprehensive assessment of their vehicles in Motion, Vibration, and Sound. The decision was reinforced by Bentley's trust in VI-grade, the proven performance of their solutions, the impressive results obtained at VI-grade SimCenter during the evaluation phase of the simulator, as well as the holistic approach offered by it.
In detail, the COMPACT FSS Simulator will play a pivotal role in building virtual prototypes of Bentley's future BEV models. Key applications include Vehicle NVH development, Ride and Handling tuning, thorough evaluation of primary and secondary ride comfort, and contribution to the overall sound experience for interior noise assessment through multi-attribute simulation.
Charlie Smith, Virtual Vehicle Engineer at Bentley Motors, emphasized, “The COMPACT FSS is viewed as a strategic step towards accelerating our development cycle, minimizing reliance on physical prototypes, and enhancing simulation capabilities. This cutting-edge technology will prominently feature in Bentley's new Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) Hub soon to be completed in Crewe, UK.”
Alessio Lombardi, VI-grade EMEA and Americas Sales Director, commented, “This success reaffirms VI-grade's commitment to providing advanced solutions and fortifying our partnership with Bentley Motors Ltd. We are excited to contribute to Bentley's journey of digital development, driving excellence in the automotive industry.”
Charlie Smith will also be giving a keynote presentation at VI-grade's ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit, to be held May 14-16 at SimCenter Udine. The presentation will focus on the importance of a "virtual first" mindset in engineering for the next generation of Bentley vehicles. For the full conference agenda and more information about the event, please follow this link.
German version available here