Case Study: Instron achieves 5× faster simulations and better test-fixture design with MathWorks (Simulink & Simscape Multibody)

Instron Develops a Multiaxis Test Fixture

Instron Structural Testing needed a way to apply multiaxis dynamic loads to a race car in the lab so customers could evaluate suspension, steering, and handling without costly track tests. Working with MathWorks tools, Instron’s teams used Simulink and Simscape Multibody (along with Simulink Coder and MATLAB) to model the controller and the mechanical test fixture and to develop a representative race car simulation.

Using MathWorks’ Simulink and Simscape Multibody, Instron integrated the controller and mechanical models, generated C code with Simulink Coder for real‑time execution, and refined designs rapidly. The MathWorks-based solution produced about a 5× speedup in simulation, enabled quick iteration and validation of fixture designs, and helped detect and eliminate mechanical design flaws—improving durability and overall test quality.

Instron

Andrew Plummer

Manager of Control and Analysis