Systems Test
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Components & systems validated off vehicle
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Cyclic operation or loading
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Environmental conditioning & performance
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Standard or complex inputs
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Replicate road vibration
The Component Test Laboratory incorporates the ideas and experience gained over 25 years of testing both whole vehicles and components. This experience has enabled a system of modular test units to be developed which can be readily adapted to perform a large range of tests.
Millbrook operates two Laboratory Life Simulation Facilities which enable life simulation testing of automotive systems such as cockpit modules, doors, seats and front end cooling modules. The facility combines vibration in six degrees of freedom with high and low temperature, humidity and infra-red ageing. Operation of features such as glove boxes, cup holders and infotainment systems during vibration is provided by remote actuation. The low operating noise of the Team CubeTM enables squeak and rattle appraisals to be carried out in-situ during the test.
Durability and fatigue rigs are custom-built to provide a bespoke test solution with no compromises in their mode of operation. Repeated loading is applied to systems or structures using load cases determined from customer requirements, industry standard or road load data. Repeated operation of switches and mechanical systems is achieved using pneumatic actuators with PLC control. Accurate replication of in-service conditions and faithful duplication of field issues can be achieved under controlled and repeatable conditions.
Vibration tests are carried out in accordance with a wide range of military, commercial and customer-owned specifications, on test items up to 350kg mass. Tests are conducted with sine, swept sine, resonance dwell or random vibration excitation. Complex structures are monitored during tests and full analysis carried out. Tests can be conducted keeping specimens in their in-service orientation using a vibration slip table, while shakers can be combined with climatic chambers. Tests are further enhanced by operating test specimens, either electrically or mechanically.
Environmental chambers are available to accommodate any size of test piece, up to a double decker bus, with tests further enhanced by the addition of solar load simulation and chemical or dust contamination reproducing just about any real-world climate.
More Information
For more information about Systems Test please contact Andrew Britton on +44 (0) 1525 408278 or email andrew.britton@millbrook.co.uk, or contact our Business Development Team on +44 (0) 1525 408278.