Automotive OEM MBD Process
Discover how an Automotive OEM reduced costs, accelerated time to market, and increased efficiency through MBD with SimuQuest.
Project Description
The client aimed to establish a fully in-house Model-Based Design (MBD) process to reduce reliance on outsourced suppliers, lower development costs, and accelerate their time to market. They sought to own the intellectual property (IP) for key embedded software systems, including Powertrain Control Modules (PCM) and Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS). By moving critical software development in-house, they could drive innovation, improve efficiency, and enhance control over their automotive technology stack. To achieve these goals, the client partnered with SimuQuest to design and implement a comprehensive MBD process from the ground up.
Challenges
The client faced multiple challenges in establishing an in-house Model-Based Design (MBD) process. Previously reliant on external suppliers for critical systems like Powertrain Control Modules and Anti-Lock Braking Systems, they incurred high non-recurring engineering costs and forfeited IP ownership to these suppliers. Their in-house team was incomplete, with limited experience in MBD, which demanded extensive process design, documentation, and training to establish self-sufficiency. Additionally, without a selected microcontroller or foundational platform software, requirements, control algorithms, diagnostics, and a comprehensive MBD framework would have to be developed entirely from scratch.
Results
SimuQuest provided two dedicated engineers to work closely with the client’s team to establish a robust, fully documented MBD process. This process integrated industry-leading tools, including MATLAB, Simulink, and Stateflow, and included hands-on training to build internal proficiency. Additionally, a Continuous Integration (CI) pipeline was implemented, automating testing and reporting to reduce development time and ensure consistent quality. The customized MBD process significantly enhanced team productivity, reduced dependency on external suppliers, and enabled the client to fully own and manage their software IP. Following implementation of the custom MBD process solution, the client went on to leverage SimuQuest support along with this process for several additional programs.
After observing the results of software development programs that leveraged this new MBD process, the client reported the following tangible improvements across these programs:
- The time required to kick-off a new program was reduced from 12 weeks to 3 weeks
- The number of days required on average to process changes was reduced from 3 weeks to a few days
- Previously, multiple program managers were required for individual programs, whereas now the client reports that one program manager is able to support multiple programs in parallel
Services Provided
- Model-Based Design Process Implementation
- Model-Based Process Guidance and Training
- Model-Based Software Development
- Control Algorithm Development
- Simulink Plant Modeling and Simulation
- Continuous Integration Automated Testing and Reporting
Tools and Technologies
- MATLAB
- Simulink
- Stateflow
- UniPhi
- QuantiPhi
- Jenkins
Client Testimonials
“The efficiency of development was amazing. We had all four powertrains up and running and with just two people. So, it was quite amazing. And then we used them for gasoline engine development, controls development, and a diesel engine control application.”
Advanced Technology Manager