Automotive simulation software developer, IPG Automotive, has had its CarMaker package certified to ISO 26262-8 by TÜV Nord. Simulation packages such as CarMaker support OEMs and suppliers when testing functions and parts of new vehicles and, as a final step, in validating them according to specific standards. TÜV Nord has confirmed the quality of CarMaker for all these requirements with the ISO certification for all Automotive Safety Integrity Levels (ASIL-A to ASIL-D).
In order to ensure functional safety (FuSa), the ISO standard 26262 defines appropriate processes, activities and methods for the development of electrical and electronic systems in vehicles. New safety-critical driving functions and components have to be validated according to this standard in order to minimise risks and prevent accidents.
The quality requirements also apply to the tools used during development. Tools themselves can be certified to save users costs and time, as they will not have to prove the Tool Confidence Level (TCL) in every single validation process.
The CarMaker simulation package achieved this tool certification in July. The experts at TÜV Nord analysed the quality assurance processes so they could guarantee the validity of the software’s calculations. With the certification, CarMaker becomes a verified component in the vehicle development process and hence facilitates the release, homologation and validation of driving functions as well as the full vehicle. Users of the package now only have to prove the deltas specific to the individual use cases.
IPG Automotive’s chief technology officer, Dr Andreas Höfer, stated: “Simulation is an inherent part of future vehicle development. The ISO 26262 certification demonstrates that our solutions can be trusted.”
