The solution
R&S®SMBV100A vector signal generator and GNSS simulator as the ideal HiL testing solution
Rohde & schwarz developed R&S®SMBV100A – a vector signal generator that supports all functionality and fulfils the following features:
- real-time remote control
- easy integration into a dynamic HiL environment
- simulates the receiver movement in real time
- the HiL Simulator is used to support the following metrics
- position coordinates
- kinetic parameters
- vehicle position information
This data simulates updated receiver movements in real time. The R&S®SMBV100A is connected to the helicopter antenna input where it feeds in the GNSS signal for the satellite- based augmentation system (SBAS).
The FMS calculates the position settings based on the helicopter. This is performed by the Rohde & Schwarz vector signal generator. The GNSS receiver then calculates the position, which is fed back to the FMS. The next flight point is determined, and the loop continues. To ensure requirements such as a vertical alarm limit (VAL), it is essential for the simulation solution to repeatedly obtain the required GNSS signal with high precession and minimal deviation over the span of several hours. The R&S®SMBV100A successfully completed this task, effectively demonstrating the instrument’s full strength and performance.
Initial assessments based on simulated signals are performed on the helicopter test system before the LPV approach procedure is tested in real flight. This is a specially prepared rig with a fully equipped avionics system comprising the flight management system (FMS) and automatic flight control systems (AFCS) with all relevant actuators and sensors. Rig tests have the advantage that functionality, performance and failure handling of the prototype can be systematically monitored under controlled, reproducible and safe conditions.
