Method, apparatus, computer program and computer-readable storage medium for the analysis of a mechatronic system

Abstract

Method for analyzing a mechatronic system, wherein the mechatronic system has one or more functions as well as diagnostic functions, wherein the functions comprise one or more hardware and / or software functions, wherein the diagnostic functions are representative of one or more software functions and other test mechanisms for diagnosing the mechatronic system, and in the method - a network (20) in the form of a tree graph with several hierarchy levels and nodes (201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210) arranged in the hierarchy levels is provided, wherein the nodes (201-210) are each representative of one of the functions of the mechatronic system and are linked to each other via one or more logical operators, such that the tree graph represents dependencies between the functions represented by the nodes (201-210), wherein the top hierarchy level has a single node (201) as the initial node, - a node (201) of the tree graph of the action network is specified as the first node, - the network (20) is extended such that a first diagnostic function (271) of the diagnostic functions is assigned to the first node, the assignment being representative of the fact that the function represented by the first node is provided for diagnosis by the first diagnostic function (271), - another node (204) of the tree graph of the network (20) is specified as the second node, - the network (20) is extended such that a second diagnostic function (272) of the diagnostic functions is assigned to the second node, the assignment being representative of the fact that the function represented by the second node is provided for diagnosis by the second diagnostic function (272), and - depending on the extended network of action (30) the mechatronic system is analyzed, wherein the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that - a third node is identified, whereby none of the diagnostic functions are assigned to the third node, and / or - a fourth node is identified, with several of the diagnostic functions assigned to the fourth node.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for analyzing a mechatronic system. The invention further relates to a device for analyzing a mechatronic system. The invention further relates to a computer program and a computer-readable storage medium for analyzing a mechatronic system.

[0002] Due to the ever-increasing complexity of mechatronic systems, targeted maintenance and repair of these systems is becoming increasingly difficult.

[0003] DE 41 24 542 C2 relates to a fault diagnosis device for determining the cause of a fault in a tested device, comprising a detection device that detects parameters of the tested device and a storage device.

[0004] DE 101 33 375 A1 relates to a method for creating a Bayes network for mapping and diagnosing a technical system based on a system description, in particular for a motor vehicle.

[0005] DE 195 23 483 A1 relates to a computer-aided fault diagnosis device for a complex, i.e. modular, technical system consisting of several subsystems with several functions to be diagnosed, wherein the technical system to be diagnosed may in particular be a motor vehicle.

[0006] US 2005 / 0160324 A1 concerns fault trees that are automatically converted to Bayesian networks to support system reliability, fault analysis and diagnostics by using information from the fault tree structure to generate the Bayesian network structure, creating parameters of the Bayesian network using information from the fault tree, obtaining information about observation nodes for the Bayesian network from a list of observations that supplement the information contained in the fault tree, and inserting the observation nodes into the Bayesian network.

[0007] DE 103 32 202 A1 concerns a model-based diagnostic system in which the technical system to be diagnosed is mapped onto a probability network. This probability network is designed as a Bayesian network. Decision-relevant knowledge is stored in an associated knowledge base and can be used by the expert system for decision-making.

[0008] The object underlying the invention is to contribute to the simple and efficient analysis of mechatronic systems.

[0009] The problem is solved by the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments are characterized in the dependent claims.

[0010] According to a first aspect, the invention is characterized by a method for analyzing a mechatronic system which has one or more functions as well as diagnostic functions, wherein the functions comprise one or more hardware and / or software functions, wherein the diagnostic functions are representative of one or more software functions for diagnosing the mechatronic system and optionally of other test mechanisms for diagnosing the mechatronic system.

[0011] According to the first aspect, a functional network is provided in the form of a tree graph with multiple hierarchy levels and nodes arranged within these levels. Each node represents one of the functions of the mechatronic system and is linked to one another via one or more logical operators, such that the tree graph represents dependencies between the functions represented by the nodes. The top hierarchy level has a single node as the initial node. A node in the tree graph of the functional network is specified as the first node. The functional network is extended such that a first diagnostic function is assigned to the first node. This assignment represents the fact that the function represented by the first node is intended for diagnosis by the first diagnostic function. Another node in the tree graph of the functional network is specified as the second node.The functional network is extended by assigning a second diagnostic function to the second node. This assignment represents the function represented by the second node, which is intended for diagnostic purposes. The mechatronic system is then analyzed based on this extended functional network.

[0012] The causal network specifically represents a function tree. Function trees, like fault trees, are tree graphs that describe functions or faults and their dependencies, and are of great importance for the analysis of a mechatronic system. This makes it possible to adapt methods for creating, processing, and / or visualizing fault trees, similar to a fault tree analysis (FTA), for the functions of the mechatronic system and their dependencies.

[0013] The method described in the first aspect allows for the manual and / or automated expansion of the functional network, enabling an analysis of the relationships between the diagnostic functions, as well as between the diagnostic functions and the functions of the mechatronic system. This is advantageous for specifying the diagnostic requirements of the mechatronic system. These requirements represent which diagnostic functions, how many of them, and at what granularity they are used to analyze the mechatronic system. Using the method described in the first aspect, it is possible to assign the first diagnostic function to the first node and the second diagnostic function to the second node.Through these assignments, the first and second diagnostic functions are directly linked to the respective functions of the mechatronic system represented by the corresponding nodes. Furthermore, this makes it possible to analyze the mechatronic system based on the extended network of functions, as well as the respective properties of the diagnostic and functional components, and to derive appropriate measures.

[0014] The mechatronic system is, in particular, a complex mechatronic system, such as a vehicle. The vehicle is preferably a single- or multi-track motor vehicle (e.g., car, truck, van, motorcycle). This results in several advantages explicitly described in this document, as well as several others that are readily apparent to those skilled in the art. A particularly significant advantage can arise when applying the method to a highly or fully automated vehicle. Alternatively, the vehicle can be an aircraft or a watercraft, and the method is applied analogously to aircraft and watercraft, respectively.

[0015] Mechatronic functions include, for example, functions such as "wheel speed" and / or "target torque," or similar. These mechatronic functions can be executed by one or more mechatronic components of the mechatronic system. Mechatronic functions can also be referred to as hardware functions of the mechatronic system.

[0016] The software functions include, for example, functions such as "target torque setting" or similar. These software functions can be representative of control and / or regulation algorithms or the like.

[0017] Each link in the network represents a dependency between the functions represented by the corresponding nodes. For example, one link represents the fact that a first function depends on a second function and a third function. Another link represents the fact that the second function depends on a fourth or a fifth function.

[0018] The nodes can be linked using any logical operators. For example, the one or more logical operators include one or more Boolean operators, such as: "AND" and / or "OR" and / or "NOT" and / or "EITHER-OR" (exclusive OR) and / or "NOT-AND" and / or "NOT-OR". Preferably, the one or more logical operators include "AND" and / or "OR" operations.

[0019] The hierarchy levels serve to order the nodes, so that the corresponding tree graph, starting from its initial node and extending to the nodes of the lowest hierarchy level, encompasses all functions of the mechatronic system represented by the corresponding nodes that exhibit dependencies on other functions. The nodes of the lowest hierarchy level represent the "smallest possible sub-functions" of a "smallest unit," which do not depend on other functions.

[0020] The network is provided, for example, depending on a corresponding method for determining the network. Such a method is designed to determine the network based on hardware network data and software network data. For example, the hardware network data includes a variety of data, such as documentation data of the mechatronic system or the like. The software network data includes the results of a signal flow and / or function analysis. The signal flow and / or function analysis is designed to generate the software network data based on one or more machine-readable functional documents, such as source code. The source code is, in particular, text written in a programming language, for example, C, C++, and / or C#, of a computer program. In the case of a vehicle that has one or more control units or...If a control unit network exists, the results of the signal flow and / or function analysis are representative of an (automatically generated) description of the software functions of the one or more control units or the control unit network.

[0021] For example, the first node is predefined based on initial user input. User input might come from a development engineer or similar. Additionally or alternatively, multiple nodes in the tree graph of the network can be predefined as multiple first nodes.

[0022] The diagnostic functions of the mechatronic system serve to identify fault states within its functions. Each diagnostic function is designed to determine at least one output value for one or more input values. This output value is representative of any deviation of that output value from a predefined target value. The output value can be, for example, at least one Health Indicator (HI) and / or at least one fault memory of the vehicle. An HI refers to fault memory descriptions, particularly in relation to environmental conditions, and indicates the presence (or absence) of a fault and can display its severity. For example, a diagnostic function can also be representative of a visual inspection or similar procedure.For example, other testing mechanisms may include so-called test plans and other fault detection methods, such as visual inspections.

[0023] For example, the assignment of the first diagnostic function to the first node depends on a second user input. The first diagnostic function is representative of any diagnostic function among the diagnostic functions, which may be selected as part of the second user input, for example, by the development engineer.

[0024] For example, the second node is specified depending on a third user input. Additionally or alternatively, several other nodes in the tree graph of the network can be specified as multiple second nodes.

[0025] For example, the assignment of the second diagnostic function to the second node depends on a fourth user input. The second diagnostic function is representative of any further diagnostic function from the diagnostic functions, which may be selected as part of the fourth user input, for example, by the development engineer.

[0026] The extended network can be saved for further processing, preferably in a graph structure, for example in a Neo4J format.

[0027] The analysis of the mechatronic system includes, for example, determining predefined relationships between the functions and / or diagnostic functions of the mechatronic system. For instance, this makes it possible to determine whether the diagnostic functions include a misdiagnosis function. A misdiagnosis function is representative of a diagnostic function that delivers an erroneous output value. Alternatively or additionally, it enables the identification, representation, and / or improvement of ambiguous "pinpointing." The term "pinpointing" here and in the following describes how functions and / or diagnostic functions represented by corresponding nodes in lower hierarchy levels are better suited for specific measures in the analysis of the mechatronic system.For example, identifying problems in a mechatronic system based on nodes at lower hierarchy levels is advantageous compared to identifying problems in a mechatronic system based on nodes at higher hierarchy levels. Furthermore, analyzing the mechatronic system is beneficial during a development phase, such as when developing robust functions / diagnostic functions and their dependencies.

[0028] The mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that a third node is identified. None of the diagnostic functions are assigned to this third node.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way as to identify a fourth node. Several diagnostic functions are assigned to this fourth node.

[0030] By identifying the third node, it is possible to automatically identify a diagnostic gap in the mechatronic system. For example, it is also possible to identify multiple third nodes to uncover further diagnostic gaps.

[0031] By identifying the fourth node, it is possible to automatically identify redundant diagnostic functions. This makes it possible to identify measures for eliminating these redundant diagnostic functions.

[0032] According to an optional configuration of the first aspect, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that a correlation is determined between the first diagnostic function assigned to the first node and the second diagnostic function assigned to the second node. This correlation is representative of the effect of the second diagnostic function on the first diagnostic function. Here, the first node is arranged in a first hierarchy level and the second node in a second hierarchy level, with the first hierarchy level being superior to the second.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that, depending on the first diagnostic function assigned to the first node, it is determined whether the function represented by the first node is relevant with regard to a legal requirement.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that, depending on the second diagnostic function assigned to the second node, it is determined whether the function represented by the second node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement.

[0035] By determining the correlation between the first diagnostic function assigned to the first node and the second diagnostic function assigned to the second node, it is possible to automatically identify a consequential error related to the first and second diagnostic functions. For example, the second diagnostic function is representative of a cause, and the first diagnostic function is representative of a corresponding consequence. This makes it possible to identify measures that include, for example, filter mechanisms and / or consequential error suppression.

[0036] By determining whether the function represented by the first or second node is relevant to the legal requirement, it is possible to automatically identify relevant functions with respect to the legal requirement. For example, the legal requirement might represent a limit value and / or a specification and / or a type of execution / implementation, or the like, regarding the functions of the mechatronic system. The legal requirement can also encompass several different legal requirements.

[0037] According to a further optional embodiment of the first aspect, the mechatronic system comprises one or more mechatronic components. The functional network is extended by the following assignment: A first mechatronic component is assigned to the first node, whereby the assignment is representative of the fact that the function represented by the first node is intended to be executed by the first mechatronic component.

[0038] This makes it possible to extend the functional network manually and / or automatically, enabling an analysis of the relationships between the mechatronic components, as well as between the mechatronic components and the functions / diagnostic functions of the mechatronic system. This is advantageous, for example, for deriving relevant mechatronic components for the functions. Through this assignment, the first mechatronic component is directly linked to the function of the mechatronic system represented by the first node. Furthermore, this makes it possible to analyze the mechatronic system based on the extended functional network, along with the respective properties of the mechatronic components / diagnostic functions / functions, and to derive appropriate measures.

[0039] For example, the assignment of the first mechatronic component to the first node depends on a fifth user input. Additionally or alternatively, multiple first mechatronic components can be assigned to multiple first nodes.

[0040] In the case that the mechatronic system is a vehicle, a mechatronic component of the mechatronic system could be, for example, one of the several control units and / or a mechatronic component of a powertrain of the vehicle.

[0041] According to a further optional embodiment of the first aspect, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way as to identify a fifth node. None of the mechatronic components are assigned to the fifth node. Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way as to identify a sixth node. Several of the mechatronic components are assigned to the sixth node. Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that, depending on the first mechatronic component assigned to the first node, it is determined whether the function represented by the first node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement.

[0042] By identifying the fifth node, it is possible to automatically identify a mapping gap in the mechatronic system with respect to its mechatronic components. For example, it is also possible to identify multiple fifth nodes to uncover further mapping gaps with respect to the mechatronic components.

[0043] By identifying the sixth node, it is possible to automatically identify redundant mechatronic components. This makes it possible to identify measures for eliminating these redundant mechatronic components.

[0044] By determining whether the function represented by the first node is relevant with respect to the legal requirement, it is possible to automatically identify relevant functions with respect to the legal requirement.

[0045] According to a further optional embodiment of the first aspect, the network is extended by the following assignment: a second mechatronic component is assigned to the second node. This assignment represents the fact that the function represented by the second node is intended to be executed by the second mechatronic component.

[0046] The assignment places the second mechatronic component in direct relation to the function of the mechatronic system represented by the second node.

[0047] For example, the assignment of the second mechatronic component to the second node depends on a sixth user input. Additionally or alternatively, multiple second mechatronic components can be assigned to multiple second nodes.

[0048] According to a further optional embodiment of the first aspect, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that a correlation is determined between the first mechatronic component assigned to the first node and the second mechatronic component assigned to the second node. The first node is located in the first hierarchy level, and the second node is located in the second hierarchy level. Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that, depending on the second mechatronic component assigned to the second node, it is determined whether the function represented by the second node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement.

[0049] By determining the correlation between the first mechatronic component assigned to the first node and the second mechatronic component assigned to the second node, it is possible to automatically identify a consequential fault affecting the first and second mechatronic components. For example, the second mechatronic component is representative of a cause, and the first mechatronic component is representative of a corresponding consequence. The correlation is representative of the effect of the second mechatronic component on the first mechatronic component.

[0050] By determining whether the function represented by the second node is relevant with respect to the legal requirement, it is possible to automatically identify relevant functions with respect to the legal requirement.

[0051] According to a further optional embodiment of the first aspect, the mechatronic system exhibits one or more fault states. The functional network is extended by the following assignments: A first fault state is assigned to the first node. This assignment represents the fact that the first fault state can be caused by the function represented by the first node and that the first fault state is intended for diagnosis by the first diagnostic function. A second fault state is assigned to the second node. This assignment represents the fact that the second fault state can be caused by the function represented by the second node and that the second fault state is intended for diagnosis by the second diagnostic function.

[0052] This makes it possible to extend the functional network manually and / or automatically, enabling an analysis of the relationships between fault states, as well as between fault states and the functions / diagnostic functions of the mechatronic system. This is advantageous, for example, for deriving relevant fault states for the functions. Through the respective assignments, the first and second fault states are directly linked to the respective function of the mechatronic system represented by the corresponding node. Furthermore, this makes it possible to analyze the mechatronic system based on the extended functional network, as well as the respective properties of the fault states / diagnostic functions / functions, and to derive appropriate measures.

[0053] For example, the assignment of the first error state to the first node depends on a seventh user input. Additionally or alternatively, multiple first error states can be assigned to multiple first nodes.

[0054] For example, the assignment of the second error state to the second node depends on an eighth user input. Additionally or alternatively, multiple second error states can be assigned to multiple second nodes.

[0055] The fault conditions of the mechatronic system can include any fault conditions of the mechatronic system caused by the mechatronic components.

[0056] According to a further optional embodiment of the first aspect, the assignment of the first fault state to the first node is representative of the fact that the first fault state can be caused by the first mechatronic component.

[0057] This makes it possible to extend the network of effects manually and / or automatically, enabling an analysis of the relationships between the fault states, as well as between the fault states and the mechatronic components of the mechatronic system. Through this assignment, the first fault state is directly linked to the function of the mechatronic system represented by the first node.

[0058] According to a further optional embodiment of the first aspect, the assignment of the second fault state to the second node is representative of the fact that the second fault state can be caused by the second mechatronic component.

[0059] This makes it possible to extend the network of effects manually and / or automatically, enabling an analysis of the relationships between the fault states, as well as between the fault states and the mechatronic components of the mechatronic system. Through this assignment, the second fault state is directly linked to the function of the mechatronic system represented by the second node.

[0060] According to a further optional embodiment of the first aspect, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way as to identify a seventh node. None of the fault states are assigned to the seventh node. Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way as to determine a correlation between the first fault state assigned to the first node and the second fault state assigned to the second node. The first node is located in the first hierarchy level, and the second node is located in the second hierarchy level. Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way as to identify an eighth node. Several of the fault states are assigned to the eighth node.Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that, depending on the first fault state assigned to the first node, it is determined whether the function represented by the first node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement. Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that, depending on the second fault state assigned to the second node, it is determined whether the function represented by the second node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement.

[0061] By identifying the seventh node, it is possible to automatically identify a mapping gap in the mechatronic system with respect to the error states. For example, it is also possible to identify multiple seventh nodes to identify further mapping gaps with respect to the error states.

[0062] By determining the correlation between the first fault state assigned to the first node and the second fault state assigned to the second node, it is possible to automatically identify a consequential fault with respect to the first and second fault states. For example, the second fault state is representative of a cause, and the first fault state is representative of a corresponding consequence. The correlation is representative of the effect of the second fault state on the first fault state.

[0063] By identifying the eighth node, it is possible to automatically identify nodes to which multiple error states are assigned and / or which error states are assigned to the corresponding nodes.

[0064] By determining whether the function represented by the first or second node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement, it is possible to automatically identify relevant functions with regard to the legal requirement.

[0065] According to a second aspect, the invention is characterized by a device for analyzing a mechatronic system. The device is configured to perform the method for analyzing a mechatronic system according to the first aspect.

[0066] According to a third aspect, the invention is characterized by a computer program, wherein the computer program comprises instructions which, when the computer program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method for analyzing a mechatronic system according to the first aspect.

[0067] According to a fourth aspect, the invention is characterized by a computer-readable storage medium on which the computer program according to the third aspect is stored.

[0068] Optional variations of the first aspect may also be present in the other aspects and have corresponding effects.

[0069] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the schematic drawings.

[0070] They show: Fig. 1. A flowchart of a program for analyzing a mechatronic system, Fig. 2 an exemplary visualization of a network of effects, Fig. 3 a first exemplary visualization of an extended network of effects, Fig. 4 a second exemplary visualization of the extended network of effects, and Fig. 5 a second exemplary visualization of assignments of the extended network of effects.

[0071] Elements of the same construction or function are marked with the same reference symbols across all figures.

[0072] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a flowchart of a program for analyzing a mechatronic system, which has one or more functions as well as diagnostic functions, wherein the functions include one or more hardware and / or software functions, wherein the diagnostic functions are representative of one or more software functions and other test mechanisms for diagnosing the mechatronic system.

[0073] The program can be executed, in particular, by a device. For this purpose, the device includes, in particular, a processing unit, a program and data memory, and, for example, one or more communication interfaces. The program and data memory and / or the processing unit and / or the communication interfaces can be implemented in a single unit and / or distributed across multiple units.

[0074] The device can also be described as a device for analyzing a mechatronic system.

[0075] The program for this purpose is stored in particular on the device's program and data memory.

[0076] The program is started in step S101, in which variables can be initialized if necessary.

[0077] In step S103, a network 20 is provided in the form of a tree graph with several hierarchy levels and nodes 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210 arranged within these hierarchy levels. Nodes 201-210 each represent one of the functions of the mechatronic system and are linked to each other via one or more logical operators, such that the tree graph represents dependencies between the functions represented by nodes 201-210. The top hierarchy level has a single node as its initial node.

[0078] The one or more logical operators include one or more logical operators of Boolean logic, in particular "AND" and / or "OR" operations.

[0079] In step S105, a node 201 of the tree graph of the action network is specified as the first node.

[0080] In step S107, the network 20 is extended such that a first diagnostic function 271 is assigned to the first node. This assignment is representative of the fact that the function represented by the first node is intended for diagnosis by the first diagnostic function 271.

[0081] In step S109, another node 204 of the tree graph of the network 20 is specified as the second node.

[0082] For example, several further nodes 204, 207, 210 of the tree graph of the network 20 are specified as several second nodes.

[0083] In S111, the network 20 is extended such that a second diagnostic function 272 is assigned to the second node. This assignment is representative of the fact that the function represented by the second node is provided for diagnosis by the second diagnostic function 272.

[0084] For example, several second diagnostic functions 272, 273, 274, 275 are specified and assigned to the several second nodes.

[0085] In an optional step S113, the mechatronic system has one or more mechatronic components. The functional network 20 is extended by the following assignment: A first mechatronic component 281 is assigned to the first node, whereby the assignment is representative of the fact that the function represented by the first node is intended to be executed by the first mechatronic component 281.

[0086] In an optional step S115, the functional network 20 is extended by the following assignment: a second mechatronic component is assigned to the second node. This assignment represents the fact that the function represented by the second node is intended to be executed by the second mechatronic component.

[0087] In an optional step S117, the mechatronic system exhibits one or more fault states. The functional network 20 is extended by the following assignment: A first fault state 291 is assigned to the first node. This assignment is representative of the fact that the first fault state 291 can be caused by the function represented by the first node and that the first fault state 291 is intended for diagnosis by the first diagnostic function 271.

[0088] Optionally, in step S117, the assignment of the first fault state 291 to the first node is representative of the fact that the first fault state 291 can be caused by the first mechatronic component 281.

[0089] In an optional step S119, the functional network 20 is extended by the following assignment: A second fault state 292 is assigned to the second node. The assignment is representative of the fact that the second fault state 292 can be caused by the function represented by the second node and that the second fault state 292 is intended for diagnosis by the second diagnostic function 272.

[0090] Optionally, in step S119, the assignment of the second fault state 292 to the second node is representative of the fact that the second fault state 292 can be caused by the second mechatronic component.

[0091] In step S121, the mechatronic system is analyzed depending on the extended network of effects 30.

[0092] The extended network 30 is stored for further processing, preferably in a graph structure, for example in a Neo4J format.

[0093] In step S123 the program is terminated and can be restarted in step S101 if necessary.

[0094] Step S121 can include a sequence of optional steps S121-1, S121-2, S121-3, S121-4, S121-5, S121-6, S121-7, S121-8, S121-9, S121-10, S121-11, S121-12, S121-13: In step S121-1, the mechatronic system is analyzed to identify a third node. None of the diagnostic functions are assigned to this third node.

[0095] In step S121-2, the mechatronic system is analyzed to determine a correlation between the first diagnostic function 271 assigned to the first node and the second diagnostic function 272 assigned to the second node. The first node is located at a first hierarchy level, and the second node is located at a second hierarchy level. The first hierarchy level is superior to the second hierarchy level.

[0096] In step S121-3, the mechatronic system is analyzed to identify a fourth node. Several diagnostic functions are assigned to this fourth node.

[0097] In step S121-4, the mechatronic system is analyzed such that, depending on the first diagnostic function 271 assigned to the first node, it is determined whether the function represented by the first node is relevant with regard to a legal requirement. Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed such that, depending on the second diagnostic function 272 assigned to the second node, it is determined whether the function represented by the second node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement.

[0098] In step S121-5, the mechatronic system is analyzed to identify a fifth node. None of the mechatronic components are assigned to this fifth node.

[0099] In step S121-6, the mechatronic system is analyzed to identify a sixth node. Several mechatronic components are assigned to this sixth node.

[0100] In step S121-7, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that, depending on the first mechatronic component 281 assigned to the first node, it is determined whether the function represented by the first node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement.

[0101] In step S121-8, the mechatronic system is analyzed to determine a correlation between the first mechatronic component 281 assigned to the first node and the second mechatronic component assigned to the second node. The first node is located in the first hierarchy level, and the second node is located in the second hierarchy level.

[0102] In step S121-9, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that, depending on the second mechatronic component assigned to the second node, it is determined whether the function represented by the second node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement.

[0103] In step S121-10, the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that a seventh node is identified. None of the error states are assigned to the seventh node.

[0104] In step S121-11, the mechatronic system is analyzed to determine a correlation between the first fault state 291 assigned to the first node and the second fault state 292 assigned to the second node. The first node is located in the first hierarchy level, and the second node is located in the second hierarchy level.

[0105] In step S121-12, the mechatronic system is analyzed to identify an eighth node. Several of the error states are assigned to this eighth node.

[0106] In step S121-13, the mechatronic system is analyzed such that, depending on the first fault state 291 assigned to the first node, it is determined whether the function represented by the first node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement. Alternatively or additionally, the mechatronic system is analyzed such that, depending on the second fault state 292 assigned to the second node, it is determined whether the function represented by the second node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement.

[0107] Steps 121-1 to 121-13 can be performed individually or in any combination and in any order.

[0108] The Fig. Figure 2 shows an example visualization of a network 20 in the form of a tree graph with five hierarchy levels. The first hierarchy level has a single node 201 as the initial node. The second hierarchy level has nodes 202, 203, and 204. The third hierarchy level has nodes 205 and 206. The fourth hierarchy level has nodes 207 and 208. The fifth hierarchy level has nodes 209 and 210. Nodes 201-210 each represent one of the functions of the mechatronic system and are linked to each other via four logical operators, so that the tree graph represents dependencies between the functions represented by nodes 201-210. The link 251 represents the fact that the function represented by node 201 requires, in order for it to function, the function represented by node 202 "AND" the function represented by node 203 "AND" the function represented by node 204.Link 252 is representative of the fact that the function represented by node 203 requires the function "OR" represented by node 205, which in turn requires the function represented by node 206, in order to function. Link 253 is representative of the fact that the function represented by node 206 requires the function "AND" represented by node 207, which in turn requires the function represented by node 208, in order to function. Link 254 is representative of the fact that the function represented by node 207 requires the function "AND" represented by node 209, which in turn requires the function represented by node 210, in order to function.

[0109] For example, node 201 of the tree graph of network 20 can be specified as the first node. For example, node 204 of the tree graph of network 20 can be specified as the second node.

[0110] The Fig. Figure 3 shows a first exemplary visualization of an extended network of effects 30 in the form of a tree graph with five hierarchy levels. The extended network of effects 30 has the same properties as the network of effects 20 according to the Fig. 2. In addition, the extended network 30 has the following assignments: Node 201 is assigned a first diagnostic function 271. This assignment is representative of the fact that the function represented by node 201 is provided for diagnosis by the first diagnostic function 271. Node 204 is assigned a second diagnostic function 272. This assignment is representative of the fact that the function represented by node 204 is provided for diagnosis by the second diagnostic function 272. Node 207 is assigned a further second diagnostic function 273. This assignment is representative of the fact that the function represented by node 207 is provided for diagnosis by the further second diagnostic function 273. Node 210 is assigned further second diagnostic functions 274 and 275.The assignments are representative of the fact that the function represented by node 210 for diagnosis is provided by the further second diagnostic functions 274, 275.

[0111] According to the first exemplary visualization of the extended network 30, it can be determined that none of the diagnostic functions 271-275 are assigned to nodes 202, 203, 205, 206, 208, and 209. Alternatively or additionally, it can be determined that a correlation exists between the first diagnostic function 271 assigned to node 201 and the second diagnostic function 272 assigned to node 204, which is representative of a consequential fault. Alternatively or additionally, it can be determined that more than one diagnostic function is assigned to node 210. Alternatively or additionally, depending on the first diagnostic function assigned to node 201, it can be determined whether the function represented by node 201 is relevant with regard to a legal requirement.Alternatively or additionally, depending on the second diagnostic function 272 assigned to node 204, it can be determined whether the function represented by node 204 is relevant with regard to the legal requirement.

[0112] The Fig. Figure 4 shows a second exemplary visualization of the extended network 30. The extended network 30 has the same properties as the network 20 according to the Fig. 2, where the extended network 30, according to the second exemplary visualization, comprises nodes 201, 202, 203, 204 and additionally has the following assignments: A mechatronic component 281 is assigned to node 201. A first fault state 291 is assigned to node 201. A second fault state 292 is assigned to node 204.

[0113] The Fig. Figure 5 shows a second exemplary visualization of assignments of the extended functional network 30. The assignments of the extended functional network 30 refer to node 201. Assignment 50 is representative of the fact that the function represented by node 201 is intended for diagnosis by the first diagnostic function 271. Assignment 51 is representative of the fact that the function represented by node 201 is intended for execution by the first mechatronic component 281. Assignment 52 is representative of the fact that the first fault state 291 can be caused by the function represented by node 201. Assignment 53 is representative of the fact that the first fault state 291 is intended for diagnosis by the first diagnostic function 271. Assignment 54 is representative of the fact that the first fault state 291 can be caused by the mechatronic component 281.

[0114] The depicted networks of effects 20, 30 and assignments 50, 51, 52, 53, 54 according to the Fig. Figures 2 to 5 are, for the sake of clarity, highly simplified illustrations of functional networks or assignments used to analyze the mechatronic system. In practice, functional networks can comprise a multitude of nodes and numerous connections, and each node within this multitude can contain multiple assignments. The representation of functional networks 20 and 30 is limited to selected nodes, connections, and assignments to clearly illustrate the relationships and mechanisms.

Claims

[1] Method for analyzing a mechatronic system, wherein the mechatronic system has one or more functions and diagnostic functions, wherein the functions comprise one or more hardware and / or software functions, wherein the diagnostic functions are representative of one or more software functions and other test mechanisms for diagnosing the mechatronic system, and in the method - a network (20) in the form of a tree graph with several hierarchy levels and nodes (201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210) arranged in the hierarchy levels is provided, wherein the nodes (201-210) are each representative of one of the functions of the mechatronic system and are linked to each other via one or more logical operators, such that the tree graph represents dependencies between the functions represented by the nodes (201-210), wherein the top hierarchy level has a single node (201) as the initial node, - a node (201) of the tree graph of the action network is specified as the first node, - the network (20) is extended such that a first diagnostic function (271) of the diagnostic functions is assigned to the first node, the assignment being representative of the fact that the function represented by the first node is provided for diagnosis by the first diagnostic function (271), - another node (204) of the tree graph of the network (20) is specified as the second node, - the network (20) is extended such that a second diagnostic function (272) of the diagnostic functions is assigned to the second node, the assignment being representative of the fact that the function represented by the second node is provided for diagnosis by the second diagnostic function (272), and - depending on the extended network of action (30) the mechatronic system is analyzed, wherein the mechatronic system is analyzed in such a way that - a third node is identified, whereby none of the diagnostic functions are assigned to the third node, and / or - a fourth node is identified, with several of the diagnostic functions assigned to the fourth node. [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein the mechatronic system is analyzed such that - a correlation is determined between the first diagnostic function (271) assigned to the first node and the second diagnostic function (272) assigned to the second node, wherein the first node is arranged in a first hierarchy level and the second node is arranged in a second hierarchy level, wherein the first hierarchy level is superior to the second hierarchy level, and / or - depending on the first diagnostic function (271) assigned to the first node, it is determined whether the function represented by the first node is relevant with respect to a legal requirement and / or depending on the second diagnostic function (272) assigned to the second node, it is determined whether the function represented by the second node is relevant with respect to the legal requirement. [3] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechatronic system comprises one or more mechatronic components, and in the method the network (20) is extended by the following assignment: a first mechatronic component (281) is assigned to the first node, wherein the assignment is representative of the fact that the function represented by the first node is intended to be executed by the first mechatronic component (281). [4] Method according to claim 3, wherein the mechatronic system is analyzed such that - a fifth node is identified, whereby none of the mechatronic components are assigned to the fifth node, and / or - a sixth node is identified, with several of the mechatronic components assigned to the sixth node, and / or - depending on the first mechatronic component (281) assigned to the first node, it is determined whether the function represented by the first node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement. [5] Method according to one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the network (20) is extended by the following assignment: a second mechatronic component is assigned to the second node, wherein the assignment is representative of the fact that the function represented by the second node is intended to be executed by the second mechatronic component. [6] Method according to claim 5, wherein the mechatronic system is analyzed such that - a correlation is determined between the first mechatronic component (281) assigned to the first node and the second mechatronic component assigned to the second node, where the first node is located in the first hierarchy level and the second node is located in the second hierarchy level, and / or - depending on the second mechatronic component assigned to the second node, it is determined whether the function represented by the second node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement. [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechatronic system has one or more fault states, and in the method the network (20) is extended by the following assignments: - a first fault state (291) is assigned to the first node, the assignment being representative of the fact that the first fault state (291) can be caused by the function represented by the first node and that the first fault state (291) is intended for diagnosis by the first diagnostic function (271), and - a second fault state (292) is assigned to the second node, the assignment being representative of the fact that the second fault state (292) can be caused by the function represented by the second node and that the second fault state (292) is intended for diagnosis by the second diagnostic function (272). [8] Method according to claim 7 in its reference to claim 3, wherein the assignment of the first fault state (291) to the first node is representative of the fact that the first fault state (291) can be caused by the first mechatronic component (281). [9] Method according to one of claims 7 or 8 in its reference to claim 5, wherein the assignment of the second fault state (292) to the second node is representative of the fact that the second fault state (292) can be caused by the second mechatronic component. [10] Method according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the mechatronic system is analyzed such that - a seventh node is identified, where none of the error states are assigned to the seventh node, and / or - a correlation is determined between the first fault state (291) assigned to the first node and the second fault state (292) assigned to the second node, where the first node is located in the first hierarchy level and the second node is located in the second hierarchy level, and / or - an eighth node is identified, with several of the error states being assigned to the eighth node, and / or - depending on the first fault state (291) assigned to the first node, it is determined whether the function represented by the first node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement and / or depending on the second fault state (292) assigned to the second node, it is determined whether the function represented by the second node is relevant with regard to the legal requirement. [11] Device designed to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10. [12] Computer program, wherein the computer program comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10. [13] Computer-readable storage medium on which the computer program according to claim 12 is stored.

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