WIXOM, Mich. 31 March 2009. Honda Aircraft Co. chose dSPACE Inc. to provide turn-key hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulators for the HondaJet Integration and Test Facility (ITF). HondaJet is the first aircraft to be developed by Honda Aircraft Co., in Greensboro, N.C., a subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Honda Aircraft will utilize dSPACE simulators for automated integration and avionics testing of aircraft electrical and avionics subsystems. Production aircraft subsystems and line replaceable units (LRU) will be tested against high-fidelity flight dynamics models, engine models and engineering prototypes running on networked dSPACE HIL platforms.
dSPACE HIL simulators provide systems engineers with an a testing framework for the integration of networked electronics, with support for a wide range of aircraft configurations, dSPACE officials say. A comprehensive suite of tools facilitate model-based design, automated testing, and automated failure insertion. The environment offers a customizable human interface, automated traceablity to requirements, and automated reporting and documentation. dSPACE HIL Simulators offer best-in-class, real-time performance in a modular and extensible architecture.
dSPACE develops and distributes integrated hardware and software tools for developing electronic control units and mechatronic controls. The systems are mainly used in research and development, for maximum speed and efficiency in bringing new developments to maturity.
dSPACE has supplied integrated HIL imulators on programs such as the U.S. Army's Future Combat System and the U.S. Air Force's Joint Strike Fighter. dSPACE is also the global supplier of HIL Simulators for General Motors and its subsidiaries.
The HondaJet is an advanced light jet that employs advanced concepts in aircraft design, including quieter operation, higher performance, and fuel efficiency, and lower emissions than any jet of its size, dSPACE officials say.
Honda Aircraft began taking sales orders in the fall of 2006, and anticipates first delivery in late 2010.
