Virtual prototypes: optimized development processes for household and commercial appliances

The functionality of home appliances is growing rapidly in step with the trend toward smart homes. Developing, implementing and testing these appliances requires a great deal of effort and is virtually impossible to accomplish using conventional approaches. Model-based development can help. It must be integrated into the development process as part of the X-in-the-Loop projects in order to generate sustainable benefits for Miele.

Miele, synonymous with high quality and long service life, is a premium manufacturer of household appliances. In order to meet the demands associated with this in the long term, Miele relies on innovative development methods. This is where Fraunhofer IEM provides support by integrating model-based development into Miele's processes.

Together with Miele employees, virtual prototypes of washing machines, dryers and dishwashers are created and used at various points in the process and permanently incorporated. The testing of control units is significantly accelerated by linking them to simulation models. Both control systems and physical processes of the systems are modeled and simulated.

Fraunhofer IEM is striving for a holistic approach in this project. This means that in addition to modeling the systems, employees are trained to use the tools on their own. By working with virtual prototypes across the development process, the processes are optimized in order to develop the products and subject them to intensive testing. This ensures the quality of Miele's premium products in the long term.