NUVE-LAB is the only open research and development environment in the Nordics focused on electric drivetrains and autonomous systems for work machines. The laboratory offers companies the opportunity to develop and test solutions that support the green transition and energy efficiency. One of the key partners in building the laboratory has been David Brown Santasalo, whose gear solutions and expertise have played a crucial role.

NUVE-LAB operates in connection with Oulu University of Applied Sciences and focuses on research and development projects aimed at electrifying work machines and developing autonomous systems. The laboratory is specifically designed to meet the needs of companies, so it is not used for teaching but serves industrial RDI activities.

Currently, NUVE-LAB is running eight research projects with a total value of approximately 20 million euros. The laboratory’s own share of this is about six million. The projects aim to develop energy-efficient drivetrains and test new components before they enter the market.

– We are able to study entire drivetrains and work machines, but also individual components such as electric motors. Tests can be repeated in exactly the same way, which is critical in development work, says Jukka Säkkinen, who is responsible for NUVE-LAB’s operations.

High Technology and Flexibility

NUVE-LAB’s strength lies in its versatile and flexible development environment, which enables the rapid construction of customer-specific solutions – often within a week. The laboratory uses high-end technology, such as portable dynamometers that can simulate various loads and driving situations. Additionally, a battery emulator allows testing without actual battery packs, making the process safer and more cost-effective.

The development environment is connected to a vehicle-in-the-loop system, where the device under test can be loaded according to the conditions of its final operating environment. This combination offers a realistic and precisely controlled testing experience. The measurement systems produce detailed data on, for example, efficiency and performance, which helps optimize control strategies and improve the energy efficiency of devices.

David Brown Santasalo Helping Build NUVE-LAB’s Expertise

David Brown Santasalo has been involved in NUVE-LAB’s development from an early stage. The collaboration began in spring 2022. Santasalo has delivered gear solutions that enable testing of high torque and low speed, which is a critical feature in the development of electric drivetrains for heavy off-road work machines. Additionally, Santasalo has supplied a gear assembly that allows dynamometers to be combined into a single loading device and enables testing of large individual AC electric motors up to the 1.2 MW range.

– Without Santasalo’s involvement, this would not have been possible. Their expertise in the gear field has fulfilled all promises made, Säkkinen praises.

The collaboration goes beyond just equipment. Santasalo has also provided installation and alignment services as well as maintenance. The local Service Center and delivery reliability have been significant advantages that have facilitated the implementation of the project.

– It’s really good that the equipment supplier’s Service Center is nearby. Delivery reliability and communication have been excellent, Säkkinen states.

The collaboration between NUVE-LAB and David Brown Santasalo is an example of how industry and research can jointly accelerate technological development. The laboratory supports Finnish companies in transitioning towards low-emission and energy-efficient solutions. Funding for the projects has been provided by, among others, the City of Oulu, companies, the Academy of Finland RRF funding (funded by the European Union – NextGenerationEU), and the Council of Oulu Region ERDF funding (funded by the European Union).

– Our development work starts from the needs of end customers, Säkkinen summarizes.

NUVE-LAB continues its research and development work in close cooperation with industry. Partners like David Brown Santasalo are key when building testing environments that respond to the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Other Projects Can Also Benefit from David Brown Santasalo’s Capabilities

David Brown Santasalo is grateful for the successful collaboration with NUVE-LAB. David Brown Santasalo has excellent capabilities and a willingness to participate in similar projects from the early planning stages.

– This way we can offer our customers the best added value and ensure the successful implementation of projects, says project manager and Head of Technical Sales Mikko Koponen.

oamk.fi/kehitysalustat/nuve-lab

https://dbsantasalo.com