Vehicle development is a complex process in which functional development is increasingly carried out digitally. Virtual product development (simulation) and systems engineering are the defining disciplines in this space. At the heart of functional development lies functional data — technical and physical property data of mechatronic components, assemblies, and systems. The parameterization of simulation models, for instance, requires large volumes of functional data depending on the simulation discipline involved. This applies particularly to multi-body simulation (MBS) of complete vehicles. Given the sheer volume of data required, the dynamic lifecycle of functional data, and the fact that functional data is exchanged between vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers in the form of functional requirements and deliverables, there is a clear need for a well-defined, high-performance functional data format. This need led to the establishment of the FDX project group several years ago.
The fundamental concept of FDX is to define semantic component data models. The data model of a chassis damper, for example, differs fundamentally from that of an electric motor in terms of its payload data. In the former case, force-velocity characteristics are specified to represent energy dissipation behavior; in the latter, the efficiency map is of primary interest. FDX mandates comprehensive documentation of payload data through metadata, enabling a wide range of data consumers to assess whether the payload data is suitable for their specific application.
A further focus of FDX lies on data flow traceability and long-term archivability.
The primary benefit of the semantic data model approach is that it enables highly automated downstream processing of functional data. Automated quality checks and the automated preparation of FDX data to feed subsequent process steps — such as the automated parameterization of complex simulation models — become possible for the first time. Time-consuming manual data quality verification steps can be eliminated, relieving both suppliers and vehicle manufacturers of significant effort.
The FDX project group of the prostep ivip Association defines the component data models and a data exchange format for functional data. The component data models reflect the current state of the art for the respective component or mechatronic system. For further development, vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers can bilaterally agree on extensions to the data model, which are intended to be incorporated back into the standard once they represent a new state of the art.
In the first half of 2025, the project group focused on extending the FDX specification by developing additional component models, with an emphasis on chassis components. The following components were elaborated in detail and prepared for publication: torsion bar, torsion bar linkage joint, torsion bar linkage bearing, compression buffer, spring/damper strut (as an integrated system, distinct from the individual damper), top mount, and engine/transmission mount.
In the second half of the year, the focus shifted to marketing activities for both the working group and the FDX data format. It is a stated objective of the working group to increase its membership and, within this expanded framework, to align and define the direction of future standardization activities.
In addition to documentation work, the exchange with other project groups within the association — particularly SmartSE and DDP — represents an important area of activity. An intensive dialogue with the SmartSE project has been ongoing for several years, with the goal of integrating FDX as a Credible Parametrization Process (CPP) within the Credible Simulation Process (CSP). Towards the end of the year, an exchange with DDP was initiated based on identified synergies. To underscore the international ambition of the standard and facilitate cross-border knowledge sharing, contacts with Japanese partner organization JAMBE were further deepened.
The FDX standard leverages the established standards openMDM and ASAM ODS as its technological foundation — both of which are widely adopted across the automotive industry. This is intended to lower the barrier to entry for implementing FDX interfaces. Initial productive exchanges of FDX data between OEMs and suppliers are now imminent. Early trials conducted at the end of 2025 have already demonstrated that the self-describing nature of FDX delivers significant advantages in lifecycle management of component-specific standardizations. System discontinuities and potential data model incompatibilities arising between FDX applications of two data-exchanging organizations can thereby be effectively overcome.
The project group is currently experiencing a shift in priorities — both on the OEM and supplier side — towards activities outside the FDX scope. As a result, membership numbers declined in 2025. This is occurring at a time when the project group is increasingly able to realize and demonstrate the efficiency gains that FDX is designed to deliver. The project group is confident that these gains will prove attractive to a broad range of companies, and that membership will grow again in the coming years.
The primary focus for 2026 will be on marketing initiatives for FDX, with the goal of significantly increasing project group membership. A further priority is the development of an AI showcase, as the semantic FDX data model is particularly well-suited for the application of AI-based methods.
Collaboration with the SmartSE and DDP project groups will be intensified, with the aim of integrating FDX into the respective data flows of each group.
Michael Baumann — EXOKNOX GmbH
"Over the past year, we have made significant progress in demonstrating the capabilities of the FDX approach. The fact that FDX is now being used for the first time within productive development processes represents an important milestone — and a compelling message in our efforts to attract new members to the project group."
Martin Hagedorn — Mercedes-Benz AG
"FDX has proven its value in productive use throughout 2025. The provision of standardized functional data makes it possible to unlock efficiencies and significantly increase productivity in the development process. This year, we are focusing on establishing the standard more broadly by attracting new members — and on making additional application areas visible through our AI showcase."
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