Machines for performing reproducible characteristic tests

Test stands are available for many areas. Irrespective whether an automotive, roller, gearbox, motor, power or some other component test stand is involved.

In addition to the mechanical design for mounting the test object, the drive and control equipment as well as sensors must be provided to be able to produce the characteristics and record the measured values.

Test stand requirements

Test stands require a variety of different technological functions, for example:

• Consistent speed and torque
• An open and flexible closed-loop control system with BICO engineering to provide outstanding torque quality
• Rotating field frequencies up to 3200 Hz
• Energy recovery for braking without dangerous current harmonics with adjustable power factor
• Resistance to power fluctuations
• Energy exchange in the coupled DC link for multi-axis test stands
• Integration of modern simulation tools, such as Matlab or Labview
• Computer link for long-term data recording and a continuous trace (including ability to export measurements for evaluation by external tools)
• Extremely high dynamic response, e.g. for the simulation of internal combustion engines
• Integrated safety functions, e.g. SLS on entering the test cell
• Battery simulation integrated in test stand
• Setpoint specification in real time by PROFINET IRT or an internal drive function

These functions can be implemented by combining a SINAMICS S120 multi-axis converter with SIMOTICS motors. The SIMOTION control system is a freely programmable platform for control structures that can be configured and connected for optimum isochronous operation with PROFINET.