Anthony Best Dynamics
The Background: Noise, Vibration and Suspension Engineering Experts
Anthony Best Dynamics, established in 1982, is a leading supplier of vehicle test equipment to both major manufacturers and first-tier suppliers in the automotive industry. With a history of
providing consultancy to automotive organisations, the firm has an enviable reputation
throughout the industry for quality test systems and expert knowledge of noise, vibration and
suspension engineering. Advanced technologies such as the Steering Robot and new Braking
Robot, allow engineers to conduct scientific vehicle tests that factor out human driving
inconsistencies. These robots also enable state-of-the-art research and development projects with the ability to produce accurate results in a short time period.
The Challenge: A long and winding road
Anthony Best Dynamics has been producing the Steering Robot since 1997. From the outset this
included computer technology to record and process test data. At first, an industrial PC was
integrated into the controller panel of the Robot, but these were inflexible and bulky. More
importantly, as computer technology moved forward, it was difficult to implement upgrades.
Later in the 90’s ABD had introduced external laptop PCs for use with the Robot, as these could
be upgraded more easily. With these laptops strapped into the passenger seats of test vehicles,
drivers were obliged to enter data using the keyboard while driving and had to spend time
looking down at the computer screen rather than focusing on the test-track. This solution was far
from ideal in high-speed test situations involving multiple vehicles and potentially dangerous or
violent maneuvers. The laptop PCs were also not robust enough to be reliable in this test
environment.
Anthony Best needed a PC which would be more convenient, safer, and easier to use during testing, which could also withstand the rigours of the test process. The company’s engineers
began looking to new Tablet PC models for answers.
The Solution: On track for success
In March 2003, engineers at Anthony Best Dynamics began using a single Motion Computing® M1300 Tablet PC with their Steering Robot demonstration unit. Almost immediately this solution was found to be very compatible both with the Robot itself and the requirements of varied test situations. Motion Computing® Tablet PC’s, with their pure-slate form, were found to provide an ideal compact shape and size for the vehicle cockpits. Their size and weight also contribute to the ease of transporting and delivering the equipment to customers.
The M1300 makes it easier and safer for engineers to view and input data. Rather than using a keyboard, all an engineer has to do is simply use the pen device or buttons to add data then view this on the 12.1” screen of the M1300. This aids speed of testing and safety for the test staff. Key to the lifespan of the equipment ABD sells is the ability to update the computing system with the latest hardware and software. With an external Tablet PC, devices can simply be upgraded or replaced as new technology comes to market.
M1300s are also able to fully withstand the broad range of temperatures and climates in which tests are regularly conducted, ranging from freezing to desert conditions. Unlike convertible or clamshell Tablet models, the Motion slate is ruggedised to cope with the tough conditions within the vehicle cockpit. Rapid acceleration and braking, the advanced driving maneuvers undertaken combined with the frequently uneven track surfaces have the potential to damage any computer within the car, but the Motion Tablets have proved to be up to the challenge.
The fact that Motion Computing® Tablet PCs run Microsoft Windows Tablet PC Edition allows ABD to easily and cost-effectively run standard test applications developed for the platform. Both time and money are saved here as there is no need to re-write or adapt the programmes for different operating systems.
Real Results: Through the chequered flag
Using M1300 Tablet PCs, the principle benefit that Anthony Best Dynamics has seen is that they are able to present a more complete offering to potential customers. The Motion PCs have vastly
improved the attractiveness of the Steering Robot and this technology has assisted in
demonstrating and selling them. The company estimates that between 70% – 80% of their current sales in negotiation will finally ship with a Motion Tablet PC in place with the Steering Robot product. During the demonstration process prospects are able to witness the ease with which the Tablet can be used intuitively within the test vehicle and how applicable the technology is for this specialised environment. Another issue is safety, and the use of Tablet PCs has enabled those using the test vehicle to be able to concentrate on the car and the test in progress rather than the computing equipment in use.
Engineers at ABD are now looking at using Motion Computing® Tablet PC’s with their Brake Pedal Robots, to bring the same benefits of ease of use, safety and accuracy to this product line
as has been established for their Steering Robot test equipment.
Note:
The Motion Computing® partner who supplies and supports Anthony Best Dynamics is Ergo Computing Ltd of Nottingham, one of a number of specialised pen based suppliers in the UK.
Ergo Computing can be contacted on 0115-9144144
