Integrating virtual test methods and physical testing to assure accuracy and to reduce effort and time

This paper discusses different aspects of linking virtual and physical testing methods. Key technologies for this are Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Multi Body Simulation (MBS), virtual iteration techniques (VIT) and fatigue life prediction (FLP). On the one hand simulation can be used to set up, improve and run test rigs more efficiently. On the other hand methods from testing can be used in CAE to generate loads, adapt model parameters or find simpler loads that still deliver the desired test result. In the future it should get practical to simulate tests in full detail before physical testing. All this will help to reduce effort and time during the vehicle development process.