EN ISO 25240:2018 is a technical standard that provides guidelines and requirements for the evaluation and selection of software packages used in functional safety applications. This standard, also known as "Road vehicles — Functional safety assessment," was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to ensure the safe performance of software in automotive systems.
Scope and Objectives
The scope of EN ISO 25240:2018 covers the assessment of software packages related to the functional safety of road vehicles. It aims to assist organizations in evaluating software suitability for use in safety-critical applications such as electronic control units (ECUs), Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), and autonomous vehicles.
The main objective of this standard is to provide a systematic approach to assessing the functional safety of software packages. It outlines the necessary steps, criteria, and considerations to be taken into account during the evaluation process, ensuring that the selected software will not compromise the overall safety objectives of a vehicle.
Key Components of EN ISO 25240:2018
EN ISO 25240:2018 consists of several key components that emphasize a thorough evaluation of software packages:
1. Evaluation Context: This component requires organizations to define the context for the software assessment, including the intended use, operating conditions, and relevant safety regulations. Understanding the evaluation context is crucial to identify specific requirements and potential hazards associated with the software's use.
2. Evaluation Process: The standard provides a step-by-step evaluation process that organizations should follow. This includes defining evaluation criteria, establishing assessment methods, conducting tests, analyzing results, and documenting findings. By following a systematic approach, organizations can ensure consistent and reliable evaluations.
3. Evaluation Criteria: EN ISO 25240:2018 provides detailed criteria for assessing software packages' functional safety performance. These criteria cover aspects such as specification analysis, development process, software architecture, verification and validation techniques, and test adequacy. Using these criteria, organizations can effectively evaluate a software package's reliability and compliance with safety standards.
Benefits of EN ISO 25240:2018 Compliance
Complying with EN ISO 25240:2018 offers several benefits to organizations involved in the automotive industry:
1. Enhanced Safety: By following the standard's guidelines, organizations can mitigate risks associated with the use of software in safety-critical applications. This ensures that the software meets the necessary safety requirements, minimizing the potential for accidents and injuries.
2. Increased Trust and Marketability: EN ISO 25240:2018 compliance demonstrates an organization's commitment to ensuring quality and safety in their products. It enhances trust among customers and regulatory authorities, potentially leading to increased market opportunities.
3. Improved Product Development: The standard's evaluation process and criteria help organizations identify weaknesses and areas for improvement in their software development practices. This enables continuous enhancement of software quality and reliability, resulting in better-performing products.