Automated generation of vehicle architectures and derivation of modular systems within the vehicle front

To reduce complexity while offering high variance to customers, vehicle manufacturers build multiple vehicles based on modular systems. These require unified architectural standards and cross-vehicle modules. However, the identification of architectural standards and modules for multiple vehicle models and performance classes is difficult, due to a high uncertainty and a vast solution space. For a holistic identification of architectural standards and modules, concept engineers need to generate and dimension as well as compare hundreds of thousands of vehicle architectures. The unmanageable quantity of solutions as well as lack of time and resources make it impossible to investigate all conceivable vehicle architectures. This indicates the need for a new method and software tool. Using MATLAB and CATIA, the “Parametric Automotive Concept Engineering” (PACE) method and tool holistically identifies architectural standards and modules within the vehicle front. Hereby, the tool considers multiple component variants, including combustion, hybrid and electric drivetrains. In addition, it includes different position variants, such as longitudinal and transverse engine installation. The concept development department of AUDI AG uses the tool at an early stage to identify architectural standards and modules. It further allows concept engineers to assess the feasibility of modular systems and the solution of conflicts of interests through the fast variation of input requirements. Consequently, the method and software tool decrease both the time and the resources for the identification of architectural standards and modules.