On Board Application Testing

Tumarc is involved in the quality assurance process for vehicle production, very early in its life cycle. Tumarc is involved shortly after the vehicle module design, during the complete vehicle pre-production phase and throughout the vehicle production lifecycle.

Electronic modules are dedicated computers that control specific parts of a larger system. For example a vehicle will have a Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which may control the fuel pump, engine fan, electronic throttle, etc. The module content of vehicles is constantly increasing. In 1992, a single vehicle would typically have 4 modules. In 2000, it was more common to see a vehicle with 12. There will shortly be in excess of 20 modules per vehicle on the C class (and above) vehicle lines, across the automotive industry.

Modules can be tested in isolation, or as part of a larger system - such as a vehicle network interacting with various sub systems. Tumarc can test modules in both of these states. In the production environment, the modules are in assembled vehicles and are normally tested at the 'end of the line'. This allows Tumarc to check that the module is functioning as expected (known as a self test) and also to interact with other devices and systems. When tested in isolation, the module compliance can be tested against a specification to ensure it supports all the required functionality and performs as expected.

Powertrain

When a new Powertrain module is to be introduced into a vehicle, Tumarc engineers are involved in capturing information about the module and reviewing the specification. The test system is then analysed to ensure it interacts with the module, to verify that it is capable of testing and configuring the module. If it is not then new tests need to be specified. Once the test system has been proved capable of supporting the new module, Tumarc engineers will be involved in data analysis to help set limits and parameters, for the test system to use.

Module Compliance

Once a test system is capable of interacting with a module and the required parameters set, Tumarc engineers can test the module in the isolated form - often called 'Bench Testing'. Testing at this time not only helps to ensure that the module is behaving as specified, but also that the test system is running correctly.

Engine Hot Test

Tumarc engineers also test mechanical components. Our team of specialists are involved in the development of calibrations for bespoke systems, to run engines on test beds and ensuring an engine runs within specified parameters.

Vehicle Diagnostics

'End of Line' is the phrase given to the testing of vehicles after they have been assembled, but before they leave the production plant. A whole range of vehicle tests are performed at the 'End of Line', but Tumarc engineers specialise in the testing and configuration of electronic modules.

Our team analyse the modules on a vehicle, then sequence and calibrate tests to check the quality of these modules and configure them if necessary. Tumarc engineers have experience in this area that helps ensure an optimum solution to the testing requirement. Where possible, tests are run in parallel to optimise cycle time.

Tumarc engineering teams are currently involved in the following EOL test systems.
FACTS: Tumarc currently supports FACTS across Europe. Tumarc is responsible for server maintenance, administration, support and client installations. The primary function is to ensure that the system is capable of testing and configuring vehicle modules.
eCATS: Tumarc is working with a number of organisations to support the launch and subsequent roll out of a new End of Line test system into various manufacturing facilities throughout Europe.