At Automotive Testing Expo 2026 in Stuttgart, Mayr Power Transmission will present its portfolio for test stand technology.

Automotive drivetrain test stand technology is evolving significantly, and shaft couplings that compensate for misalignment remain key components in these systems.

Based on the ROBA DS steel disk pack coupling, Mayr Power Transmission has introduced the ROBA DS Type 9120, a lighter aluminum version. Compared with the previous steel model, the aluminum design reduces the outside diameter by up to 10mm. Depending on the size and configuration, its mass and rotational inertia are reduced to about 40-60% of the steel version while maintaining comparable performance density.

The coupling is designed for rotational speeds of up to 32,000rpm. Its lightweight construction, low rotational inertia and high performance density provide practical operating advantages. The design balances rigidity and flexibility to minimize restoring forces within the drivetrain. In addition, a balance quality of G 2.5 at 5,000rpm supports smooth, low-vibration operation, helping to maintain high measurement accuracy throughout the speed range.

As standard, the coupling features manufacturing tolerance IT6. A nickel-plated surface, disk packs made of stainless steel and galvanized connecting screws provide comprehensive corrosion protection. Backlash-free shaft connections via shrink disk hubs or external shrink disk hubs ensure reproducible measurement results. The coupling is compatible with all common torque transducers as standard.

With its modular design, the ROBA DS 9120 can be configured with a range of connection options and components to suit different applications, from high-performance research and development test stands to end-of-line production testing.

In addition to coupling technology, the company will present its portfolio of safety brakes for test stand applications. Test stands for automotive drives frequently include vertical axes and linear movements that must be reliably secured, whether during ongoing test operation, during maintenance work or in the event of a fault.

The ROBA guidestop profiled rail brake acts directly on the moving masses of vertical axes, clamping them in position without backlash and with high rigidity. It is available in hydraulic, pneumatic and electromagnetic versions and is compatible with common linear guide systems.

The ROBA linearstop piston rod brake is designed to secure linear motion on round rods. Operating on the fail-safe principle, the brake remains engaged when de-energized and is intended for dynamic emergency braking applications. The product range includes six sizes with braking forces from 70-17,000N.

The ROBA-stop M series also provides a robust motor brake for compact protection directly at the drive motor. As a holding brake, it clamps reliably and holds the system in position; as a dynamic brake, it brings the load to a standstill in the shortest time possible.

Smart modules for intelligent monitoring

The ROBA brake-checker module provides sensorless monitoring of safety brakes while also supplying them with power.

By analyzing current and voltage signals, the module detects the brake’s switching status and can issue an early warning if the brake may no longer release reliably under existing operating conditions. This supports predictive maintenance and helps users identify critical factors such as insufficient supply voltage, improperly sized power lines, increased coil temperature or excessive air-gap wear.

When combined with the ROBA gateway module, the system can be integrated into networked environments. Brake data can be continuously accessed via ethernet and displayed on a dashboard for monitoring and analysis.

This allows anomalies in the test process to be identified early, supports planned maintenance and helps reduce unplanned downtime. The system can also be integrated into remote maintenance and monitoring platforms.

Mayr Power Transmission will be exhibiting at Booth 1824 at Automotive Testing Expo in Stuttgart, June 23-25. Click here to register for your FREE expo pass

“VDA 4.1 is the result of listening closely to our customers’ needs,” said Mike Weglarz, ATI’s executive director for software products. “Engineers told us they needed greater flexibility in how they view and compare data across multiple monitors, native access to CAN and LIN bus trace data without switching tools, and smarter ways to collaborate on large MDF4 datasets across distributed teams. VDA 4.1 addresses all of this – and more.”

One of the key features is the floating and dockable workspace. Pages and tabs can be freely undocked into independent windows and repositioned across multiple monitors. Panel pages enable side-by-side views of graphs, data grids, GPS maps and CAN/LIN bus trace data simultaneously. Chain cursors link navigation across all open windows in real time, significantly improving multiscreen analysis workflows for rapid MDF4 file analysis.

VDA 4.1 introduces native display of CAN and LIN bus messages recorded within MDF4 files, complete with message filtering, a time slider and cursor synchronization with trace pages. Furthermore, engineers can now inspect raw bus traffic correlated directly with measured signals inside the single VDA 4.1 application – eliminating the need for a separate CAN analysis tool.

ATI’s new software includes a new dashboard page and live gauges. The new page type hosts circular and linear gauges, data lists and text boxes that can be locked once configured and linked to trace page cursors. VDA 4.1’s dashboard provides a quick view of different data and a professional, presentation-ready data view purpose-built for test debriefs and live review sessions.

It also comes with optional Vision Enterprise integration. VDA 4.1 integrates fully with the forthcoming optional Vision Enterprise (VE) 1.0 collaboration platform, which will provide centralized MDF4 file storage, powerful 21-criteria metadata search, folder notifications, tag/property editing and upload/download with progress tracking. Vision Enterprise is available as a separately licensed add-on and is expected to launch later this year.

In terms of performance and reliability, more than 30 targeted bug fixes address stability across calculated channels, MDF file handling, GPS visualizer with KML export, layout reapplication and ASCII export.

Vision Data Analyzer 4.1 is available as a subscription-based software license for 64-bit Windows 10 and Windows 11. Site licenses for corporate volume deployments are available on application. The soon-to-be-launched Vision Enterprise collaboration module requires a separate VE server license.

“For engineering teams already using ATI Vision data acquisition hardware, VDA 4.1 is the natural next step,” noted Peter Knivett, executive VP for commercial at ATI. “And for teams using any MDF4-compatible datalogger, VDA 4.1 offers a professional-grade analysis environment at a price point that is highly competitive with far more complex toolchains. The combination of flexible workspace, CAN/LIN trace viewing and optional future Vision enterprise collaboration makes this a compelling choice for control system development teams.”

VDA 4.1 is designed for test engineers, calibration engineers, data analysts and validation teams at OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers and engineering service providers. It supports automotive powertrain, chassis, EV/HEV and ADAS development, as well as heavy truck and bus, agricultural, marine, aerospace and off-highway applications – wherever ASAM MDF4-format test data is used.

Look out for a feature on data acquisition, the data pipeline and other aspects such as edge computing in the June edition of ATTI – due to land soon. Read the latest issue for FREE here

Piezoresistive absolute pressure sensors are suitable for recording static and dynamic pressures. They have long been used in the automotive industry for engine and powertrain development, where high accuracy is required. To enable this degree of precision at elevated temperatures, the sensor needs additional cooling.

The 4017A…W set from Kistler includes the water-cooled 7547A adapter and the 4017A pressure sensor with an M8x0.75 threaded connection. The 4017A is around 25% smaller than the 4049B water-cooled sensor, making it easier to use in space-constrained engine applications. The adapter’s low mass and optimized cooling channels improve cooling efficiency, helping to extend sensor life and reliability. A welded heat shield keeps the sensor within its operating temperature range in hot environments, and the lower weight reduces sensitivity to engine vibration.

The modular design of the 4017A…W set allows the sensor and adapter to be easily replaced. For cleaning, the 4017A can be disconnected from the adapter and reattached as needed. Its oil-filled, media-separated measuring cell provides high compatibility with gaseous media, along with strong measurement accuracy and stability (≤1% FSO), supported by digital temperature compensation.

Kistler’s PiezoSmart technology enables automatic recognition of the miniature absolute pressure sensor by DS-compatible amplifiers, reducing the risk of incorrect setup and configuration. The system also uses model-based digital temperature compensation to adjust the output signal in real time according to sensor temperature, improving accuracy and response. In addition, it allows for continuous monitoring of sensor temperature.

In related news, Göpel expands Scanflex with CAN-FD/LIN module

When Hyundai Mobis required a reliable test solution to verify its Hybrid eCall system, the company selected Anritsu for its proven expertise in automotive communication testing.

As the automotive industry transitions from the conventional eCall emergency call system operating on 2G and 3G networks, where vehicles automatically contact emergency services in the event of an accident, to the next-generation (NG) eCall system using 4G networks, Hybrid eCall is crucial in bridging the gap.

Hyundai Mobis has adopted Hybrid eCall and overcome significant challenges, including acquiring test equipment, mastering the advanced 4G and 5G mobile protocols required for call initiation, and addressing the limitations of network simulation environments in the early stages of development.

Anritsu’s eCall Tester MX703330E and Signalling Tester MD8475B provided an effective solution to these challenges. By establishing a comprehensive test environment and using automated conformance testing and log analysis functions, Hyundai Mobis promptly identified the root causes of operational issues. Furthermore, sharing the test environment between the development and verification teams improved consistency, reliability and operational efficiency.

Hyundai Mobis integrates Hybrid eCall functionality into its data connectivity unit (DCU). Conformance testing is conducted to EU regulations and ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute) standards to verify the system’s functionality across various network conditions as well as ensuring interoperability with public safety answering points (PSAPs).

In addition, Hyundai Mobis was required to design test scenarios, perform error analysis, prepare detailed test reports and develop technical verification documents necessary for certification. These processes were supported by Anritsu’s simulation and functional testing capabilities.

There were two primary reasons why the company selected Anritsu’s test solution.

First, it enables comprehensive Hybrid eCall testing with an all-in-one tester. Previously, separate testers were required to verify Hybrid eCall, NG eCall and eCall. By integrating Anritsu’s MX703330E software-based tester with the MD8475B hardware tester, all three types of eCall functionality can be tested using a single solution. This integration reduced initial investment requirements and operational workload, improving overall verification efficiency.

The second reason was enhanced collaboration and efficiency using the same test environment as the development team. This alignment facilitated accurate issue reproduction and streamlined root cause analysis. Additionally, Anritsu’s clear setup documentation contributed to more efficient software updates and debugging activities.

With Anritsu’s technical support, Hyundai Mobis teams gained early access to the MX703330E, MD8475B and beta firmware versions. This enabled them to verify Hybrid eCall‑related software updates prior to official release, and perform conformance testing during the development stage.

Anritsu’s test solution also helped Hyundai Mobis build expertise in 4G and 5G mobile communications and Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) signaling. Analyzing the operation of the SIP using the sequence log feature provided a practical understanding. Furthermore, the setup procedures were based on the provided manuals, and network simulations were repeatedly conducted with on-site support and phone consultations with Anritsu’s staff. With this support, the teams steadily acquired the knowledge of mobile communications required for eCall verification.

The teams also needed to simulate various network conditions. Using the handover and cell configuration features of the MX703330E and MD8475B, including signal strength control, ECL settings and service controls, they were able to effectively reproduce real-world network conditions. This enabled prompt and effective software verification.

Since implementing Anritsu’s test solution, compatibility between the DCU and the test environment has remained consistently high. The teams experienced no notable issues when integrating the product with existing hardware. The test environment was configured efficiently, and stable operation was achieved from the initial stage of deployment.

Hyundai Mobis has been able to conduct reliable, repeated testing in the laboratory, building a normal testing environment. It has also automated conformance testing and network simulations. Test scenarios were created using Anritsu’s SmartStudio Manager (SSM) MX847503A, which supports the generation of rapid and reliable test results, thereby contributing to improved development efficiency and product quality.

When issues arise, reviewing the sequence and message logs of the tester allows immediate determination of whether the problem is due to device settings or the hardware itself. This enables the verification team to provide accurate and timely feedback to the development team, reducing the time required for root cause analysis and problem resolution.

During the implementation process, Anritsu supported the teams from the program installation stage, which allowed them to establish the test environment smoothly. One unexpected issue was that the USIM card initially provided for the device was not compatible with performing the test eCalls required for functionality verification. Anritsu promptly provided a compatible USIM card, allowing the verification activities to continue without interruption. No additional compatibility issues were observed with the existing DCU verification setup.

Another challenge was the provision of a reporting tool, including testers’ logs. The initial conformance test reports could not be presented as objective evidence to certification bodies and relevant departments, necessitating further improvements. In response, Anritsu updated the reporting tool to create highly reliable reports that included logs from the MX703330E. As a result, verification results could be presented more clearly and convincingly.

Anritsu’s tester is stable and reliable, enabling the Hyundai Mobis teams to focus on analyzing hardware issues during the verification processes. On-site support and telephone and email communication from Anritsu – along with the manuals provided by Anritsu’s representatives – enabled the Hyundai Mobis teams to acquire the skills to operate the tester.

With Anritsu’s technical support, Hyundai Mobis plans to expand automation within its verification processes.

Beyond the eCall functions, the Anritsu test solution supports verification capabilities, including SMS transmission and throughput measurement. Although the details of these functions are still being finalized, Hyundai Mobis hopes to use them to increase the value of the equipment by broadening the scope of verification, enabling a more multifaceted analysis of product performance and, ultimately, contributing to the development of even higher-quality products.

Need to know

• Anritsu’s test solution enables comprehensive Hybrid eCall testing with an all-in-one tester
• Real-world network conditions can be reproduced, enabling effective software verification
• Hyundai Mobis recently sought a reliable partner to test its Hybrid eCall technology
• It chose Anritsu for the supplier’s expertise in automotive communications testing

With the new BAC module for CAN-FD/LIN, these interfaces can now be tested for functionality during production. The Bus Access Cable (BAC) is connected to one of the five slots on the Scanflex multi-port bus I/O Module 9305. This enables access to the complex test functions of the Scanflex boundary scan controller, which then takes over the simultaneous generation and dynamic distribution of the vectors and control sequences to the interfaces.

What is Scanflex? 

Scanflex is a modular JTAG/boundary scan controller. Based on state-of-the-art multi-core processors and FPGAs, it enables users to execute test and programming technologies from embedded JTAG solutions. Its multifunctional architecture enables these technologies to be combined flexibly and with high performance on a single platform.

Related news, AVL and VCarSystem in technology tie-up to advance E/E testing

Based on the original GRAS KEMAR platform, this latest artificial head introduces a fully redesigned automotive-focused architecture including wide, flexible positioning capabilities; a user-reconfigurable system – one unit supports multiple applications; ISOFIX-compatible seat mount for secure and repeatable installation; a rattle-free design enabling reliable on-road testing; adjustable height, seat distance, tilt, rotation and viewing angle, coverage of the full ear ellipse and beyond; optional integrated mouth simulator; and low-noise configuration.

“In-cabin sound today is judged by what people perceive, not just what instruments record. With AutoKEMAR, we set out to capture sound from a realistic listening position inside real vehicle interiors, so engineers can make decisions based on data that truly reflects the occupant experience – without sacrificing repeatability,” said Santiago Rayes, product manager at GRAS Sound & Vibration.

Unlike microphone arrays that do not simulate the human body’s influence, AutoKEMAR captures a truer-to-life listening experience. It is developed for automotive acoustic measurements in static lab setups, dynamometer tests, wind tunnel tests and real-world on-road testing.

“Engineers told us they needed a solution that could move naturally within the vehicle cabin while remaining stable and repeatable during testing,” Rayes added. “AutoKEMAR combines realistic human acoustic simulation with exceptional positioning flexibility, making it suitable for everything from lab validation to real-world on-road measurements.”

It enables high-fidelity measurement of audio system performance and tuning, sound quality and sound design, infotainment and DSP testing, speech intelligibility and voice quality, hands-free communication, in-cabin NVH and wind tunnel measurements.

The flexible seat mount and head positioning system enable engineers to simulate different driver sizes, seating positions and viewing angles, making it the ideal solution for headrest speakers, spatial audio and advanced driver interaction systems. The result is a highly realistic human acoustic simulation tool that accurately represents the influence of the human body in the vehicle sound field.

More on GRAS’s latest HATS and other indispensable testing tools for 2026 in the March edition of ATTI – due to land next week.

ATTI delves into the difficulties being encountered by NVH specialists within electric vehicles in the March 2024 issue

From here, the developer of real-time test technology for control designs and embedded controllers will be able to give greater support in earlier validation phases and collaborate closer throughout system development and testing.

The new hub is near the MathWorks headquarters; Speedgoat’s real-time test systems support model-based development workflows integrated with MathWorks Matlab and Simulink for controls applications.

Essentially, the local assembly and integration capabilities will enable Speedgoat to more efficiently support OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, system integrators and research teams with application-specific HIL systems tailored to required sample rates, connectivity and environmental conditions.

Patric Schenk, MD AMER (North, Central and South America) at Speedgoat, said, “By expanding our North America operations, we are bringing our expertise, systems and services closer to our customers. The new office allows us to deliver fully integrated HIL test benches locally while providing faster, more responsive support to engineering teams across the United States and Canada.”

In addition to the well-established local technical support, the new facility provides an improved on-site lab and training where customers can perform factory acceptance testing on the HIL test benches. The new office will also offer workflow integration and application services along with extended jumpstart sessions to support faster adoption.

Related news, Infineon and Typhoon HIL collaborate to accelerate xEV development with real-time HIL

The full-day workshop is set-up to provide practical insights into working efficiently with engineering measurement datasets. The agenda includes sessions on data visualization and interactive analysis, data import and export, automated workflows using sequences and panel pages, feature identification and extraction, durability and fatigue analysis, as well as noise and vibration analysis. The event also includes opportunities for discussion and networking with FAMOS experts and fellow users.

The workshop is designed for engineers, test specialists and analysts from all industries who want to deepen their expertise in engineering data analysis and explore the latest capabilities of FAMOS. Attendees will gain hands-on experience with FAMOS capabilities and learn how to transform raw measurement data into actionable engineering insights more efficiently.

The FAMOS Workshop is free, but participants need to cover their travel costs and accommodation and bring their own computer with FAMOS software installed. The latest version is recommended, but previous versions are also supported. This can also be the 30-day FAMOS trial, available for download on the imc website.

Related news, Data analysis software FAMOS 2024 launched by imc Test & Measurement

Guided by a shared vision of fully automated, CI/CD-connected development environments based on open standards and modern software practices, the suppliers aim to make HIL testing truly ‘soft’ – meaning software-driven –  as well as being flexible, scalable and seamlessly deployable. This is central to supporting the evolution toward software-defined vehicle architectures.

Gianluca Vitale, software global unit manager at AVL, said, “At AVL, our software strategy continues to evolve with a clear focus on accelerating development through end-to-end solution responsibility, positioning ourselves as an open integrator that enables customers to move faster and more efficiently.”

“Together with VCarSystem, we are introducing disruptive, end-to-end approaches that radically speed up software release cycles and E/E integration, offering a new benchmark for testing efficiency and development agility,” said Qi Chen, president of VCarSystem. “Partnering with AVL marks a significant step toward reshaping the future of vehicle development in the era of software-defined vehicles.

“As the industry shifts from hardware-bound architectures to software-driven mobility platforms, validation must evolve at the speed of software. Together with AVL, we are building an open, scalable testing ecosystem that accelerates function validation, shortens development cycles and enables continuous innovation throughout the SDV lifecycle – creating long-term sustainable value for our global customers and partners.”

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The solution, which was developed in partnership with Odosolutions, was designed to address the challenges of data acquisition and management in today’s development landscape. As Kuhn’s equipment has evolved to incorporate advanced electronics and sensor technologies, the company identified growing limitations in traditional approaches to gathering field data and customer feedback, which were no longer sufficient to support modern product development and performance optimization.

Earlier trials with low-cost data logging tools lacked cloud connectivity, integrated dashboards and turnkey usability, according to Odosolutions. More advanced systems required extensive manual processing and were difficult to share across teams, while also lacking the durability required for harsh agricultural environments. At the same time, Kuhn needed a way to provide global teams and suppliers with timely access to machine data to support collaborative R&D and troubleshooting.

Following a successful demonstration of Odosolutions cloud loggers and dashboard technology, Kuhn introduced ruggedized, mount-ready loggers across both legacy and newly developed equipment. Once installed, the devices began transmitting live operational data directly to a secure cloud dashboard accessible across departments and international sites. The system integrated into Kuhn’s existing development and testing workflows with minimal configuration, enabling teams to begin analyzing and sharing data within days.

The impact was immediate. Within the first week of implementation, the new system eliminated the need for at least one costly test trip, saving several days of travel, accommodation and associated expenses. Engineers reported a significant reduction in the time previously spent on manual data handling and report preparation, while remote access to live machine data created further potential for cost and time savings across Kuhn’s global test locations.

Beyond operational efficiencies, the platform has enhanced Kuhn’s software development, testing and validation by enabling faster debugging and performance optimization. Real-time visibility of machine data has improved cross-department collaboration, allowing engineers, designers and software developers to work simultaneously from the same dataset and accelerate decision-making. The system has also strengthened collaboration with international suppliers by enabling shared access to performance data for joint analysis.

“Odosolutions has been essential for us in the software development process. We can log in and monitor information coming from our machines in real time, which helps us make changes faster and get solutions more quickly,” said Jake Peterson, product evaluation lab test engineer, Kuhn USA..

“It’s also improved visibility across departments and with our international partners, so everyone can access the same data without extra processing. The system has already saved development time, and it will continue to help us build smarter, more reliable equipment.”

Related news, Odosolutions CAN-to-cloud technology backs UK’s Drive35 and CAM Pathfinder ambitions