Chang'an Mazda has successfully started performance and durability testing programs at its R&D center in Nanjing, thanks to a Moog Tire Coupled Simulation System delivered in a record time. The test system is a 4-poster hydraulic rig that simulates vertical acceleration and displacement inputs on the wheels, using data collected from the test track that is then replicated and played out in the lab through Moog Replication Software.

The Chang'an Mazda Nanjing campus was designated by Mazda as the location for its first overseas research and development center, with the purpose of developing car models specifically tailored to the Chinese market. To support these R&D efforts, Chang'an Mazda turned to Moog to deliver a Tire Coupled Simulation System. Moog was able to deliver the system within five months of the contract signing in October 2013, which is a short time for such a comprehensive project.

The Tire Coupled Simulation System is a full testing system that includes XY positioners, actuators with flow selectors, wheel pans, a shock cooling system, a controller with a cabinet, software (replication & runner), an HSM (hydraulic service manifold) and an HPU (hydraulic power unit). From ride quality evaluations to noise and vibration assessments of design candidates and prototypes, as well as durability tests on selected structural, chassis and suspension designs, the system is an invaluable asset for the product development engineer in research labs. 

Wu Jie, Test Laboratory Supervisor of Chang'an Mazda, commented on the selection of Moog for the project: "Moog was able to provide us with a ready-to-use, turnkey testing solution that included ground foundation design and construction, test laboratory layout design, and interior construction - providing a more cost effective option than competitors for a complete solution. Moog extended its expertise beyond the equipment itself, by even including road load data acquisition and road event sequence generation. The system has very high iterative precision."

Jason Yang, Engineering Director at Moog, commented on the nature of the project, as well as the milestone it represents for Moog in China: "We are very proud that we were able to complete the turnkey project within 5 months, and we are pleased to see that the test system is fully functional."