First certified basic software for autonomous driving

Vector's MICROSAR Classic Safe basic software has been independently recognised by exida up to the highest level ASIL D. Along with regular recertification, the focus was also on proving that the software meets the safety requirements for availability in redundant systems. This signifies that ECU developers at automotive manufacturers and suppliers can now use the basic software for autonomous driving functions.

The assessors from exida evaluated modules from different domains of the basic software. They determined their freedom from interference regarding memory and the correct implementation of the dedicated safety requirements that provide the availability of redundant systems. For the first time, the assessors evaluated the new analysis method introduced in the development of MICROSAR, which provides upper limits for the execution time of the modules. The limitation of the execution time (WCET, worst-case execution time) assures the permanent availability of, for example, control commands for steering and braking in autonomous vehicles.

In addition to the scope of the previous assessment, exida evaluated modules for communication via Ethernet and J1939 and modules for the safe separation of software on different microprocessor cores. This completes the portfolio for a seamless and high-performance solution for safety-relevant ECUs. Consequently, ECU developers receive all relevant modules of the company's AUTOSAR basic software with the highest integrity level ASIL D for their safety-relevant projects.

In 2016, MICROSAR Classic Safe was the world's first AUTOSAR implementation to be successfully certified according to ISO 26262 up to ASIL D. According to the schedule, the second follow-up assessment has now occurred. It was carried out by exida and confirmed the high quality of the Vector basic software with the certificate.

Also, Vector provides a safety-relevant solution for high-performance ECUs based on AUTOSAR Adaptive up to ASIL D. An independent certificate is planned for the end of the year.