Mock-ups - Modular vehicle replica for private vehicles

New vehicle concepts and driving assistance systems must be tested in a safe test environment before they can be used on public roads. DLR operates the flexible, adaptable test platform required to simulate them: the modular mock-up.

What are the special features of the mock-up?

The modular mock-up is a flexible construction kit that enables the replication and testing of a wide variety of vehicle concepts in a simulation environment. The mockup can be used to realise various vehicle concepts, from classic four-seaters to shuttles, at low cost and in a short space of time.

The mockup can be integrated and used in the laboratory environment of the Virtual Reality Lab with its 360° all-round projection. The vehicle can also be used in conjunction with the MoSAIC infrastructure via the link between the virtual reality lab and MoSAIC.

How you benefit from the mock-up

  • A freely configurable experimental mock-up is available
  • The mock-up can be used in various DLR simulators
  • The mock-up can be used by external partners and customers via standardised hardware and software interfaces
  • On-site testing is possible on the premises of external partners

Application

The modular mock-up makes the following activities possible:

  • Modular design for the investigation of innovative operating concepts and driver assistance systems
  • Investigation of driver assistance systems in a realistic context
  • Execution of repeatable and reproducible scenarios, which saves time and cost
  • Validation of assistance systems at an early stage in order to avoid undesirable developments
  • Integration into various simulation environments and coupling with the Institute’s other simulators and infrastructure, such as the Modular and Scalable Application Platform for ITS-Components (MoSAIC) laboratory, which enables multi-driver simulation for testing cooperative driver assistance
  • Development of psychological questions on driver modelling, human-machine interaction, cognitive driving behaviour and more

General and technical data

General data

  • Location: Braunschweig, Institute of Transportation Systems
  • Commissioning: 2014
  • Operation: Year round
  • Possible modes of operation: VR laboratory

Technical specifications

  • Software: ROS2, DLR software environment
  • Base platform: 4.2 by 1.8 metres
  • Vehicle exterior elements:
    • Modular construction kit to represent a wide range of vehicle classes and concepts (from one-seater to robotic shuttle)
    • Basic frame: tubular frame with quick connectors on the basic platform
  • Vehicle interior elements:
    • o Modular construction kit of solid elements and fabric-covered (shaping) elements to modify appearance
    • o Intelligent surfaces with displays, (multi-)touch systems, proximity sensors and gesture control
    • o Active controls (such as pedals and steering wheel) for realistic display of feedback elements
  • Flexible connectivity for video, audio, and control elements that link to the IT infrastructure

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about the modular mock-up

What is the procedure for booking the mock-up?

If you would like to book our mock-up for a test, please send us a request via our booking form. We will be happy to provide you with any further information you require.

What technology can be installed in the modular mock-up?

The flexible architecture of the modular mock-up makes it possible to exchange hardware and software components or to integrate them individually into the simulation.

Where is the mock-up used?

The modular mock-up can be used in various DLR simulators (VR Lab) or on the premises of our external partners.

Our research facilities and laboratories are at your disposal for tests and studies. Get in touch with us!

Contact

Marc Hohloch

Head of Department
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute of Transportation Systems
Research Infrastructure Management
Rutherfordstr. 2, 12489 Berlin