dSPACE Introduces Python-Based Test Automation SDK for SIL and HIL Simulation
dSPACE's new SDK lets engineers write tests in Python and reuse them across SIL and HIL simulation, with open-source development and AI support.
What Happened
dSPACE has introduced the Test Automation SDK, a software development kit that lets development and validation teams write test cases entirely in Python and run them in both software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) setups. The SDK is designed to automate end-to-end test workflows and to support AI-powered test generation. Its future development will be open source, allowing users and partners to help shape the solution.
An abstracted programming interface means the same tests can be reused across different environments. Switching from SIL simulation platforms such as dSPACE VEOS to HIL systems such as dSPACE SCALEXIO is done only through configuration, leaving the test logic unchanged. This reduces the need to work with different tools and interfaces.
The SDK can be integrated into existing development workflows and supports established Python test frameworks such as pytest and Robot Framework. It also works with common development environments including Visual Studio Code and Git, so software developers and test engineers can use the tools they already know.
Because tests are written in Python and complex APIs are abstracted, the SDK is suited to AI-supported test generation and extension. Common AI coding assistants can help create and maintain tests, lowering the effort needed for test development. Interested users and partners can already contact dSPACE to take part in the open-source development.
- Automotive industry
- Commercial vehicle and off-highway applications
- Agriculture
- Aerospace
- Defense
Why this matters
For engineers validating complex electronic systems, this SDK simplifies test automation by allowing Python-based tests to run in both SIL and HIL setups with the same code. It supports familiar tools like pytest, VS Code, and Git, making test automation more accessible. The open-source direction could also let users and partners influence the tool's evolution.
Terms in This Story
- SIL
- Software-in-the-loop, a testing method where software runs in a simulated environment without real hardware.
- HIL
- Hardware-in-the-loop, a testing method where real hardware interacts with simulated sensors and actuators.
- SDK
- Software development kit, a collection of tools and libraries for building applications.
- pytest
- A widely used Python testing framework for writing and running test cases.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.