Mechanical Simulation Corporation Introduces Newest TruckSim

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - March 28, 2008 – TruckSim® 7 offers a new architecture and many other features that make it “extensible,” according to Mechanical Simulation Corporation’s Chief Technology Officer Michael Sayers. The new vehicle dynamic software was introduced in March by the company.

TruckSim is software for simulating the dynamic vehicle behavior of heavy-duty vehicles with dual wheels, asymmetric steering systems, multiple axles and optionally single or multiple trailers. OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers consistently report close agreement between TruckSim simulation predictions and actual on-road test results.

“TruckSim 7 accomplishes three goals for users,” explained Sayers. “It’s ‘backward compatible’ so that existing users can continue to run with their old datasets. In addition, it’s easier to learn for new users who are starting from scratch. Yet, for experienced users, it can be customized and further automated – the ‘extensible’ feature of the program.”

Key to the usability of TruckSim 7 is a software environment called VehicleSim® (VS) that includes a command language for extending the model at run time. Users can add new output variables, degrees of freedom, controllers and automation options. TruckSim runs from a standard Windows® OS PC for regular use by engineers. It also provides real-time (RT) operation for driving simulators, and testing with hardware in the loop (HIL) using most commercially-available RT computer systems.

TruckSim 7 also includes many significant improvements relative to past versions:

  • Math Models – In addition to the VS command language, TruckSim 7 includes many improvements in the multi-body math model, such as suspended cab dynamics, improvements in predicting the contact between the tires and the ground and more testing options on RT platforms.
  • Animator – Addition of audio options for engine noise, wind noise and tire noise, along with improvements to fog, lighting conditions and improved live animations for driving simulators are included in TruckSim 7.
  • Browser and Database – Many improvements have been made to the database and graphic user interface (GUI).

“It’s difficult to develop one version of TruckSim that is applicable to every truck market,” said Sayers. Vehicle manufacturers and component manufacturers, as well as test simulators and crash testers will use the software for very different purposes. “We provide the core product that can be extended and adapted as needed to include controllers and other systems. It’s very versatile.”

TruckSim 7 is available for testing and purchase. Contact Jim Brakke at 1.734.668.2930 or visit www.carsim.com for more information.

About Mechanical Simulation: Mechanical Simulation Corporation is a technology leader in the development and distribution of advanced software used to simulate vehicle performance under a wide variety of conditions. The company was established in 1996, and from its Ann Arbor, Mich., headquarters provides car and truck simulation packages, training and ongoing support to more than 50 OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, and over 120 universities and government research groups worldwide. For more information, visit www.carsim.com.