⚠️ This project is no longer maintained. The repository is archived for reference only.
MATLAB/Simulink simulation of CAN messages for a BMW E9x instrument cluster.
Developed as part of the Master's course Embedded systems and networking of mechatronic systems (Mechatronics & Robotics, Frankfurt UAS, WiSe 2024/2025).
| Hardware | Simulation |
|---|---|
 |
 |
- Simulate a functional instrument cluster using real CAN message definitions
- Create and maintain a
.dbcfile covering all relevant cluster signals - Generate realistic signal waveforms from a MATLAB/Simulink model
- Provide an extensible architecture for adding new signals
┌─────────────────────────────┐
│ Simulink Signal Generator │ (can-signal-sim.slx)
│ - Speed ramp │
│ - RPM sine wave │
│ - Fuel level step │
│ - Temperature, indicators │
└──────────────┬──────────────┘
│ Simulink CAN Pack / CAN Write blocks
▼
┌──────────────────────────────┐
│ Vehicle Network Toolbox │ CAN channel (virtual or hardware)
│ CAN channel (Peak/IXXAT/…) │
└──────────────┬───────────────┘
│ Physical / virtual CAN bus
▼
┌──────────────────────────────┐
│ BMW E9x Instrument Cluster │ (target hardware)
└──────────────────────────────┘
| Layer | Technology |
|---|---|
| Signal definition | DBC file (bmw-e9x-can-database.dbc) |
| Simulation model | MATLAB/Simulink (can-signal-sim.slx) |
| CAN transmission | MATLAB Vehicle Network Toolbox |
| Project management | MATLAB Project (simulation.prj) |
The bmw-e9x-can-database.dbc file defines all CAN messages and signals for the BMW KOMBI (Kombiinstrument). Key signals include speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature, and indicator lamps.
| Tool | Version |
|---|---|
| MATLAB | R2024b |
| Simulink | R2024b |
| Vehicle Network Toolbox | R2024b |
| CAN hardware (optional) | Peak PCAN, IXXAT, or Vector CANcase |
A virtual CAN channel can be used for simulation without hardware.
- Open MATLAB R2024b.
- Open the project file:
PKW/simulation.prj - Open the Simulink model:
can-signal-sim.slx - Configure the CAN channel in the CAN Configuration block to match your hardware or select a virtual channel.
- Run the simulation (
Ctrl+T).
Instrument-Cluster/
├── images/
│ ├── instrument-cluster-hardware.png Hardware photo
│ └── instrument-cluster-simulation.png Simulink model screenshot
├── PKW/
│ ├── bmw-e9x-can-database.dbc CAN signal database
│ ├── simulation.prj MATLAB project file
│ └── can-signal-sim.slx Simulink simulation model
└── README.md
Copyright (c) 2026 Mutasem Bader — All Rights Reserved.
Viewing is permitted. Copying, modifying, or submitting as own work is strictly prohibited.
See LICENSE for details.