AB Dynamics – Overview

Founded in 1982 as a vehicle engineering consultancy, we have grown to become one of the world’s most trusted suppliers of automotive test systems. Today, we offer a diverse range of track and laboratory testing solutions. From suspension and steering development machines to driving robots and advanced driver assistance and autonomy testing solutions. Our clients include the top 25 global vehicle manufacturers, Euro NCAP laboratories and numerous government test authorities. As part of the AB Dynamics Group of companies we enable customers to develop and test in virtual environments, validate on the track, and then evaluate vehicles on public roads.

Steering Robots

The widest range of steering robots in the world

  • They can follow a computer programmed path, facilitating driver assistance system and durability testing, along with a wide variety of vehicle dynamics tests
  • Enable accurate and repeatable measurements
  • All robots can be used in driverless systems
  • Torque capacities up to 150 Nm
  • Hollow-centred steering robots allow installation without removing the steering wheel or impacting airbag operation
  • Torque reaction mechanisms avoid obstructing driver visibility, without permanent modifications to the vehicle
  • Software runs on standard Windows PC or tablet

SR60

The SR 60 Steering Robot is a powerful and compact solution designed for high-precision driving tests. Its direct-drive motor delivers up to 70 Nm of peak torque and a maximum rotational speed of 2500°/s, ensuring excellent performance during demanding maneuvers. It is well-suited for dynamic test scenarios such as sine-dwell and fishhook. With a motor weight of 12.5 kg, the SR 60 stands out as one of the most efficient options in its class and is also adaptable for heavy vehicle testing.

HALO

The Halo Steering Robot offers a compact and high-performance solution optimized for both durability and advanced vehicle dynamics testing. It features a direct-drive motor capable of delivering up to 90 Nm peak torque and a maximum velocity of 2500°/s, all within a lightweight 9 kg motor assembly.

VRU Test Platforms – LaunchPad

  • Can carry Euro NCAP approved Vulnerable Road User (VRU) targets including pedestrian, cyclist and moped dummies
  • 4-wheel-drive and 4-wheel-steering for manoeuvrability
  • Robust chassis suitable for driving over, including heavy duty version
  • Can be used with Synchro and path-following enabling precise choreography with subject vehicle
  • The LaunchPad can follow complex paths, unlike belt-driven platforms
  • Available in 50, 60 and 80km/h max speed versions

LaunchPad 80

Combining 10 years of GST and LaunchPad development we have built our most advanced and capable platform yet

 

  • 80km/h Top speed
  • Class leading top speed satisfies the fastest test requirements
  • 6m/s2 Braking
  • Best in class braking for the most demanding tests
  • 800Wh Battery
  • 2x battery capacity of the original LaunchPad
  • 3m/s2 Acceleration
  • Outstanding acceleration for space efficient testing

Impactable Vehicle Target – Guided Soft Target  (GST) with Soft Car 360

Soft Car 360

Replicates typical car and collapses on impact minimising damage to vehicles

 

GST Platform

Can safely can be driven over.

Remotely Operated Platforms – GST

Drive-over platforms featuring class-leading control technology

  • Electric motors, braking system, batteries and control system integrated into an ultra low profile unit (100mm high).
  • Wirelessly connects to a base-station for remote operation with easy-to-use software.
  • Control system features GPS-corrected, inertial navigation to accurately guide the vehicle along a pre-programmed course at a defined speed.
  • The batteries provide sufficient power for a typical day of testing, and can easily be recharged between tests.
  • Heavy duty upgrade available for heavy vehicle testing.
  • Available in 100km/h and 120km/h max speed versions.

GST120 – Making Testing at Highway Speeds a Reality

  • 120 km/h top speed for highway scenario testing
  • ABS braking system controlled braking to 0.8g and extended tyre life
  • Optimised steering for a smaller turning radius
  • 8 kWh Larger battery for more test time
  • Longer wheelbase and advanced dynamic controller

Impactable Target – Soft Car 360

Multiple lightweight foam pieces break apart upon collision minimising the risk of damage

  • Soft Car is secured to the top of the GST platform using Velcro
  • Vinyl skin represents visual and radar characteristics of a real vehicle
  • Appears realistic to sensor systems from any approach direction
  • Assembled in 8 minutes
  • Aerodynamically stable at speeds of up to 120km/h
  • Can sustain collision with a closing speed of up to 144km/h with out damaging the test vehicle
  • Damaged foam pieces easily replaced

Impactable Target – Soft Motorcycle 360

Developed by DRI to bring increased levels of realism and durability to motorcycle testing

  • Realism Rotating Wheels
  • Rotating wheels provide speed-matched Doppler effect for radar sensors
  • Stable Performance
  • Stability proven at 80 km/h paired with LaunchPad
  • Safety Minimal Damage
  • Soft structure and light weight minimises damage to target and test vehicle
  • Durable Materials
  • Abrasion resistant materials and field-repairable finish ensure target longevity

Impactable Target – Soft Pedestrian 360

Developed by DRI for increased realism, durability and reduced possibility of vehicle damage

 

  • Durability
  • Durable fabric, pliable foam and articulation mechanism protects servo from back-drive
  • Realism
  • Independent articulations adapt to platform speed for a realistic gait
  • Damage Minimisation
  • Limbs and head attached using foam connectors and low mass individual components
  • Configurability
  • The target can be configured as either passive, partially articulated or fully articulated
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