Construction of a mode swirl chamber
The focus is on the construction of a new EMC testing system for networked vehicle electronics. The funding comprises pure investment funds and is being used to set up a so-called mode swirl chamber at the Center for Automotive Electronics (ZKE). An existing measuring cabin was dismantled for this purpose; the structural adaptations are already underway. Trial operation is planned for June/July. In future, immunity tests at component level can be carried out in the new infrastructure. The aim is to further improve the reliability of automated driving functions.
The approximately 5 × 4 × 3 meter chamber generates a statistically homogeneous electromagnetic field and simulates real interference environments. This allows EMC tests to be carried out more efficiently. This is becoming increasingly important in the automotive industry in particular, as the communication systems required for automated driving functions are using ever higher frequency ranges and the requirements for robust electronics are therefore continuing to rise.
Relay simulation
The “Automotive Electronics and EMC” research group at the Forschungs- und Transferzentrum e. V. (FTZ) at WHZ, headed by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Matthias Richter, has been working for many years on solutions to operate communication and drive systems reliably even under interference. “With the new system – consisting of a so-called mode swirl chamber and modern testing technology – electromagnetic influences can be simulated realistically and new measurement and testing methods can be developed,” explains Prof. Dr.-Ing. Matthias Richter, head of the research group.
The investment not only strengthens research at the Zwickau site, but also has direct relevance for industry. The results are incorporated into international standards and support companies in developing safe and efficient vehicle technologies. The project thus makes an important contribution to the mobility of the future – and to the competitiveness of the automotive region of Saxony.
The FTZ e.V.
The Forschungs- und Transferzentrum e. V. (FTZ) at the West Saxon University of Applied Sciences Zwickau sees itself as an interface between science and industry. The aim is to quickly transfer research results into industrial applications, promote innovation and support companies with technological challenges. The basis for this is a close cooperation agreement with the West Saxon University of Applied Sciences Zwickau (WHZ), which enables the joint use of infrastructure, expertise and personnel. In 2025, the FTZ generated research revenue of around 2.58 million euros – an increase of 19 percent compared to the previous year.
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Photos: Marc le Roy/Comtest Engineering
