DICV, a subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, has unveiled a cutting-edge Mechatronics Lab at its Oragadam facility, marking a significant leap in its R&D capabilities. This state-of-the-art lab is designed to enhance the efficiency of software architecture verification and validation processes, enabling DICV to achieve cost reductions of 70-80% compared to traditional methods. By employing agile methodologies, the lab accelerates the identification and resolution of software issues, substantially reducing the time required for testing and verification.
The Mechatronics Lab plays a crucial role in ensuring that the software functionality for DICV’s range of trucks and buses not only meets current safety standards but is also poised to comply with future global regulations. Pradeep Kumar Thimmaiyan, President of Product Engineering & Chief Technology Officer at DICV, emphasized that this lab marks a transformative phase in the company’s R&D operations, serving as a focal point for innovation.
Dilip Shrivastava, Head of Mechatronics and Software Technology at DICV, underscored the lab’s advanced capabilities. He pointed out that the lab is capable of verifying and validating approximately 300 features and over a thousand signals within a span of just 10 days. Additionally, it can verify up to 600 fault codes in a product under development within a matter of weeks. This facility allows for the evaluation of various vehicle architectures without the need for multiple physical test vehicles, offering a significant advantage in terms of efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
One of the standout features of the Mechatronics Lab is its ability to simulate and validate rare fault cases that are challenging to replicate in real-world conditions. The lab is equipped with a flashing station for pre-production verification of electronic control units, ensuring that these components meet stringent quality and safety standards before being deployed in vehicles. Moreover, the lab features an Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) setup, which allows for the reproduction of on-road data within the lab environment, further enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the testing process.
Over the past decade, DICV has consistently set high benchmarks for safety and efficiency within the commercial vehicle industry. The introduction of the Mechatronics Lab is expected to elevate these standards even further by enabling the integration of advanced safety features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Blind Spot Assist, Driver Drowsiness Alert, and Lane Departure Warning. This new facility represents a significant investment in the future of commercial vehicle technology, positioning DICV at the forefront of innovation in the industry.
Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), a subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, specializes in manufacturing and selling commercial vehicles in India. Headquartered in Oragadam, DICV offers a range of trucks and buses under the BharatBenz brand, known for their durability, efficiency, and safety. The company is committed to innovation, sustainability, and setting high industry standards.