Solar Simulation with Vertical Height Adjustment

With this solar simulation system, specially developed for Mercedes-Benz AG, BF Engineering provides a highly flexible solution for thermal vehicle testing in a climatic wind tunnel. The system was installed in 2026 at the Sindelfingen development site and enables reproducible simulation of intense solar radiation under controlled test-bench conditions.

A special feature of the system is the movable luminaire frame. The entire solar simulation system can be adjusted in position, enabling flexible test-bench operation as well as optimum accessibility for maintenance and service work. The robust construction was specifically developed for the demanding conditions of a climatic wind tunnel and is designed to withstand the airflow and turbulence occurring within the facility.

On a reference area of 8 × 2.5 metres, the system generates a continuously adjustable irradiance of 400 to 1,200 W/m² with a required homogeneity of ±5%. The global spectrum is based on the requirements of DIN 75220, enabling realistic investigations of the thermal behaviour of vehicles.

By integrating the system into the cold chamber, solar radiation, driving wind and different climatic conditions can be combined within a single test facility. The cold chamber itself also enables roller dynamometer operation as well as snow, rain and contamination simulations.

This provides Mercedes-Benz with a versatile test environment for investigating a wide range of vehicle concepts under reproducible and realistic environmental conditions. The system particularly supports the development and validation of thermal management, air conditioning and energy efficiency for future vehicle generations.