Behind the scenes at DAF

contributed by LMS Intl.
Created: June 9, 2011

Revolutionary virtual test bench cuts costs and improves overall engine performance for next-generation MX engine

DAF Trucks is a fond user of LMS Virtual.Lab (as well as LMS Test.Lab) and uses LMS solutions in some rather revolutionary ways to develop better performing and globally compliant truck engines...
DAF Trucks is a fond user of LMS Virtual.Lab (as well as LMS Test.Lab) and uses LMS solutions in some rather revolutionary ways to develop better performing and globally compliant truck engines – most recently the next-generation MX engine.
DAF trucks
DAF trucks
LMS

The PACCAR MX engine range is the result of 50 years DAF experience in developing heavy-duty diesel engines, combined with the latest technologies and design techniques. A compact design and...
The PACCAR MX engine range is the result of 50 years DAF experience in developing heavy-duty diesel engines, combined with the latest technologies and design techniques. A compact design and advanced materials ensure a low weight and maximum durability. High performance and massive torque combine to deliver an exceptional driving experience.

This doesn’t mean that testing is a thing of the past. After a particular optimized configuration is selected using LMS Virtual.Lab simulation, it is validated using test data acquired using the LMS Test.Lab platform and LMS SCADAS hardware. Then the DAF project team manufactures the prototype piece and mounts it on the engine and runs the tests on the actual prototype to validate the solution as a whole.

Driven by emission standards… and cost

Regarding engine development, most recently the next-generation MX engine, DAF faced the typical challenges that every engine developer faces today: new stricter emission regulations, customer demands for better fuel efficiency and reliability and, of course, keeping the engine cost as low as possible. All these changes affect not only the engine itself, but also how the engine interacts with the various truck models as a whole.

If one considers the fact that the DAF CAE-Engines team completes an average of 150 CAE-jobs per year, this represents a superb cost-saver that LMS Virtual.Lab contributes to.

“We are dealing with extremely complex engine designs and our deadlines are tight. You can easily imagine that the pressure is on and the stakes are high. Add in the global economic crisis and it is clear that we have to be faster and smarter with the tools and people that we have. From this point of view, LMS Virtual.Lab is an ideal tool for the tough times,” concluded Eric Van Velthooven.