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Independent and Comprehensive
Testing of Inverters
SL1042A SL1044A
Inverters are essential components for numerous applications since they convert
electrical voltage bi-directionally. One example is the conversion of DC voltage
from a battery to AC voltage for an electric machine. An inverter is also required to
convert the AC voltage from the grid power supply into DC voltage for electrical
consumers. This functionality makes inverters an important component in
electromobility, as well as numerous industrial applications.
In the automotive sector, the requirements made on quality, durability and safety
are extremely demanding. In order for these to be secured, all components are
subject to stringent test requirements throughout development and production.
The earlier the tests can be performed during development, the more efficient the
next development steps can be. Comprehensive test scenarios and independent
component testing allow development expenditure to be reduced and innovations
to be achieved faster.
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Comprehensive testing on the basis of the V-model
The V-model development process is used for launching new technologies on the market. First of all, the
requirements are defined and the system design is specified. Once the components have been defined, test
execution begins. The first tests on the new technology are carried out during this stage: component behavior
is simulated on the basis of software models. After the individual components are created they are tested
individually. The low voltage HiL is used for this purpose and allows tests on the signal level. The electric
power cannot be monitored.
In the next step, the individual components are put together to form a system, and their functionality is tested
on mechanical test benches with the aid of a load machine to simulate different power states. Faults which
occur during this phase are extremely difficult to reproduce and trace back to individual components. In
addition, the test bench does not have high dynamism. And, standards-related fault cases cannot be tested at
a mechanical test bench.
Testing from execution through system acceptance shows clearly the component testing on the signal level is
directly followed by testing of the complete system under load. Independent testing of the individual
components with real electric power cannot be carried out using conventional test systems. This gap can be
closed by the Power-HiL system from Keysight. The advantages:
•
Complete scope of standards-conformity testing
•
Efficient implementation of tests according to the V-model
•
Faster component development due to reproducible test cases
•
Efficient verification of the complete system possible through independent tests on each component