In recent year, Electronic Control Unit (ECU) virtualization is being promoted for development and validation of automotive software. ECU virtualization allows execution of integrated software on developer’s computer, enabling faster algorithm testing. However, the challenge remains to establish a process to be followed at organization level and its integration in the existing development process/es.
In this paper, an approach for integration of Virtual ECU (V-ECU) in Software Development Life-Cycle (SDLC) is discussed. The rationale of merging ECU virtualization in standard SDLC V-cycle supplements milestones in testing & validation. Addition of this milestone with the implementation of ECU virtualization is also presented. On the foundation of modified SDLC V-cycle, a standard process flow is created to establish ECU virtualization as integral part of software development in agile methodology.
We have implemented the discussed process with diversified tool chains on various automotive controller i.e. TCM, ECM, BMS etc. The process is accomplished, and the benefits of ECU virtualization are accumulated by algorithm development and testing team. A case study of Battery Management System (BMS) application is presented in this paper, using dSPACE tool suite. A sprint plan is also presented to highlight implementation of ECU virtualization and uses of system by various stake holders.