Invention Description
The rapid development of automated and connected vehicles (AVs/CAVs) requires advanced testing to ensure safety, cybersecurity, energy efficiency, and reliability. Traditional real-road testing can be costly, risky, and limited in its ability to replicate extreme maneuverability scenarios. A laboratory-based vehicle testbed would provide a controlled, high-accuracy environment to evaluate complete production vehicles, accelerate technology development, and support the safe and secure deployment of next-generation mobility systems.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed an enhanced chassis dynamometer that adds lateral vehicle motion, enabling advanced testing of complete production vehicles in a controlled laboratory environment. This invention integrates lateral motion capability into traditional chassis dynamometers, which conventionally only support longitudinal motion. By adding an extra axis of motion through motorized rotational mounts and high-accuracy direct-drive rotary motors, the rollers can now rotate independently around a vertical axis, allowing precise lateral movement (Y-motion). Updated automation software receives steering input via a CAN bus from the test vehicle, facilitating comprehensive testing modes including longitudinal, lateral, and dynamic steering motions. A new hook-type restraint system further improves suspension dynamics by better accommodating vehicle movement without unnecessary forces.
Potential Applications
- Autonomous and connected vehicle development and validation
- Federal and research institution testing facilities for functional safety and energy efficiency
- Vehicle manufacturers seeking advanced dynamometer testing solutions
- Mobility system researchers focusing on cyber-infrastructure and next-generation vehicle technologies
- Commercial labs providing controlled simulation environments for vehicle dynamics and steering system research
Benefits and Advantages
- Enables realistic lateral motion and dynamic steering simulation in chassis dynamometers
- Precise control through high-accuracy direct-drive rotary motors
- Supports safe, controlled testing environments for autonomous and connected vehicles
- Improves suspension dynamics testing with a novel hook-type restraint system
- Integrates seamlessly with vehicle CAN bus systems for accurate steering commands
- Extends the established chassis dynamometer architecture with an added axis of motion rather than requiring a purpose-built costly proving-grounds