Bimodal-tram Simulator using PXI Embedded Real-time Controllers

In this paper we present the Bimodal-tram simulator using the PXI embedded real-time controllers. The Bimodal-tram is developed in KRRI (Korea Railroad Research Institute). The vehicle can be automatically operated by navigation control system (NCS). For the automatic driving, the vehicle lanes will be marked with permanent magnets that are placed in the ground. The vehicle is controlled by NCS. NCS governs the manual mode and automatic mode driving. The simulator is designed by an identical conception with the real control condition. The dynamic motion of vehicle is simulated by the nonlinear dynamic model. The control computer calculates the control values. The signal interface is linked by CAN communication. The simulation is processed by real-time base. The test driver can see the graphic motion of vehicle and can operate the steering wheel, gas and brake pedal to control direction and velocity of vehicle during the simulation. At present, the simulator is only operated by manual mode. The automatic mode will be linked after the control algorithm is finished. We will use the simulator to develop the control algorithm in the automatic mode. This paper shows the simulator designed for Bimodal-tram using real-time based controller. The results of the test using the simulator are presented and discussed.