Rail Vehicle Software Configuration via Encrypted 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 any changes or adjustments, making it inefficient for addressing customer-specific requests.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows for the activation or deactivation of optional functions in rail vehicle software using individually assigned and encrypted switching parameters, which can be transmitted and implemented remotely, enabling customer-specific configurations without the need for new software development or re-approval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If software changes or adaptations are made to address customer requests, then customer-specific requirements are met, but the process becomes time-consuming and costly due to redevelopment, testing, and re-approval
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control software into basic functions and optional functions. Basic functions remain fixed and approved, while optional functions can be selectively activated or deactivated through parameter changes. This segmentation allows customer-specific configurations without requiring changes to the core approved software, thus reducing configuration time while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes to activate or deactivate optional functions instead of modifying the software code itself. By changing parameters within the already-approved software framework, the system can adapt to customer requirements quickly without undergoing time-consuming redevelopment and re-approval processes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If software changes are made to address customer requests, then customer-specific requirements are met, but extensive testing and re-approval processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides software functionality into basic functions (which require approval) and optional functions (which can be configured without approval). This segmentation simplifies the configuration process by allowing customers to select from pre-approved optional functions without triggering complex testing and re-approval procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-approving optional functions during the software development phase. These pre-approved optional functions can then be activated later through simple parameter changes without requiring additional testing or re-approval, thus reducing the complexity of the configuration process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If optional functions are activated or deactivated, then customer-specific configurations are achieved, but functional safety must be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments software functions into basic functions (critical for safety and approval) and optional functions (less critical). By isolating optional functions, the patent ensures that changes to these functions do not compromise the safety-critical basic functions, thus maintaining functional safety while enabling configurability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses encrypted parameter files as copies to control the activation of optional functions. These parameter files serve as safe, verified configurations that can be distributed and applied without directly modifying the approved software code, thereby ensuring functional safety is maintained while allowing configurability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for configuration of control software in a rail vehicle. In the control software, which is intended for a plurality of rail vehicles, basic functions are implemented which are required for the basic operation of the rail vehicles. In addition, optional functions are implemented in the control software which are required for carrying out customer-specific requests. The basic functions and the optional functions are tested, validated and approved in their specifications, combinations and functional processes before implementation in the rail vehicles. The basic functions and the optional functions are then implemented in rail vehicles. In a selected rail vehicle, at least one optional function is activated or deactivated using a switching parameter which is individually associated with the optional function. The required switching parameter is created outside of the rail vehicle and subsequently transferred to the selected rail vehicle. The switching parameter is transferred encrypted to the selected rail vehicle, in a manner specific to an individual vehicle.