The GOcontroll Moduline IV provides precise automation and data control for Automotive HVAC Testbench systems, improving testing, calibration, and validation.

Testing and calibrating vehicle climate systems requires accuracy, flexibility, and repeatability. The GOcontroll Moduline IV delivers all three in a single modular platform, making it ideal for Automotive HVAC Testbench applications. With real-time I/O management, data logging, and integrated communication over CAN or LIN, the Moduline IV controls compressors, fans, valves, and dampers while interfacing directly with a vehicle’s HVAC ECU. It’s a scalable and reliable solution for research, validation, and calibration of automotive heating and cooling systems.

Automotive HVAC development involves complex thermal and airflow processes. The Moduline IV automates these processes by managing actuation and data acquisition across multiple subsystems.

Key testbench capabilities include:

• Compressor control for refrigerant pressure and cooling cycles.

• Fan and blower speed regulation for airflow simulation.

• Electronic valve and actuator control for flap positioning.

• Coolant and refrigerant valve management for temperature balance.

These functions can be executed in closed-loop operation or directly in coordination with a vehicle’s climate ECU. Engineers can simulate various cabin conditions and automatically repeat tests under precise conditions, improving both development speed and data quality.

The GOcontroll Moduline IV features a rugged aluminum housing and supports up to eight I/O modules, enabling flexible configuration for a wide variety of testbench setups.

Typical module combinations for HVAC test systems include:

• 6-channel input modules for reading temperature, pressure, and airflow sensors.

• 6-channel output modules for controlling relays, fans, solenoids, and dampers.

• 10-channel input modules for capturing switch states, sensor triggers, and ECU signals.

This modular design means one controller can manage an entire HVAC loop—from compressor and evaporator control to airflow distribution—without needing multiple PLCs or external devices.

Automotive HVAC testing often requires direct interaction with a vehicle’s control network. The Moduline IV supports CAN 2.0B and LIN 2.1 communication, allowing it to act as both a test controller and ECU interface.

Through these interfaces, engineers can:

• Simulate ECU signals for standalone testing.

• Exchange real-time data with climate control modules.

• Record diagnostic messages (CAN/LIN frames) during endurance testing.

• Integrate with HIL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) systems for validation.

Ethernet connectivity further allows coordination between multiple testbenches and centralized data logging for system-wide test management.

The Moduline IV supports both MATLAB Simulink and Node-RED environments for programming and visualization. Engineers can design detailed test sequences and deploy them directly to the controller.

Common software applications include:

• Temperature ramp and steady-state testing.

• Actuator endurance and lifetime validation.

• Airflow mapping for duct and vent performance.

• System calibration using real-time feedback loops.

Each profile can be logged, versioned, and executed automatically, allowing test engineers to standardize complex HVAC validation routines.

The Moduline IV is designed for continuous operation under demanding test conditions. It logs high-resolution time-stamped data for every channel, including temperature, pressure, flow rate, and control states. Data can be exported directly or streamed via Ethernet to lab management software for post-analysis.

Built-in diagnostics and safety functions include:

• Overtemperature and overpressure protection.

• Loss-of-signal detection for critical sensors.

• Automatic system shutdown or restart on power interruptions.

With its durable IP-rated housing and automotive-grade connectors, the Moduline IV ensures reliable performance during long-duration and high-cycle HVAC testing campaigns.