Rail Vehicle Software Configuration via Switching Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing method for configuring control software in rail vehicles is time-consuming, costly, and requires extensive testing and re-approval for even minor changes, making it inefficient for addressing customer-specific requirements post-delivery.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows for the activation or deactivation of optional software functions in rail vehicles using switching parameters, which can be remotely managed and updated, enabling customer-specific configurations without the need for new software development or re-approval, with features like parameter-based activation, predetermined usage periods, and secure file transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If software changes or adaptations are made to meet customer requirements, then customer-specific functionality is improved, but the time and cost for redevelopment, testing, and approval increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments software functionality into basic functions and optional functions. Basic functions are permanently approved and form the core system, while optional functions can be individually activated or deactivated through parameter settings. This segmentation allows customer-specific configurations to be achieved by simply switching optional functions on or off, without requiring redevelopment or re-testing of the entire software system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter-based control to activate or deactivate optional functions. By changing software parameters rather than modifying the underlying code, the system can adapt to customer requirements instantly. This parameter change approach eliminates the need for time-consuming redevelopment and re-approval processes, as the same approved software can serve multiple customer configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If software changes are made to address customer requirements, then functional adaptability is improved, but the cost of redevelopment and testing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments software functionality into basic functions and optional functions. Basic functions are permanently approved and form the core system, while optional functions can be individually activated or deactivated through parameter settings. This segmentation allows customer-specific configurations to be achieved by simply switching optional functions on or off, without requiring redevelopment or re-testing of the entire software system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a reusable template of approved optional functions that can be copied and activated in different customer configurations. Once an optional function is developed and approved once, it can be repeatedly activated for different customers through parameter settings, eliminating the need for costly re-development for each new customer requirement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If optional functions are activated with predetermined usage periods, then operational flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by associating predetermined usage periods with optional functions. Functions can be activated for specific time intervals (e.g., seasonal operations, temporary customer needs), automatically deactivating after the specified period. This periodic activation capability provides operational flexibility for time-sensitive requirements while maintaining a manageable parameter structure through standardized time-period definitions.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for configuring control software in a rail vehicle. The control software, which is designated for a multitude of rail vehicles, implements basic functions required for basic operation of the rail vehicles. The control software additionally implements optional functions required to execute client-specific requests. The specifications, combinations and functional sequences of the basic functions and optional functions are tested, validated and approved before said functions are implemented in the rail vehicles, whereupon the basic functions and optional functions are implemented in rail vehicles. In a selected rail vehicle, at least one optional function is activated or deactivated using a switching parameter that is individually allocated to the optional function. The switching parameter required therefor is established outside the rail vehicle and is then transmitted to the selected rail vehicle. The activated optional function is allocated a specified operating period.