Automotive Lighting

Project: Pioneering work – introduction of ISO 26262 at Automotive Lighting

Client: Automotive Lighting
Period: January 2011 – February 2012
Role: Consultant & Lead for the introduction of functional safety

At a time when ISO 26262 was still in the draft stage (DIS –Draft International Standard) and about to be officially published, I was commissioned to set the strategic course for the future at Automotive Lighting. As one of the first experts in the industry, my task was to interpret the new standard and establish a complete management system for functional safety within the company.

My core responsibilities and results:

• Interpretation and implementation of ISO/DIS 26262: I analyzed the new draft standard and translated it into concrete, implementable processes. On this basis, I built the management system for functional safety.
• Integration into the existing management system: Instead of creating an isolated system, the seamless integration of the new FuSa processes into the existing QM landscape had to be taken into account to ensure efficiency and acceptance within the company.
• Evaluation and selection of a FuSa software tool: I supported the selection of a suitable software tool that would optimally support the new processes and ensure traceability.
• Management of a pilot project: To validate the practical suitability of the new processes and tools, I introduced functional safety in a pilot project for headlight development. In doing so, I actively supported the project team in applying the new methods.

Project impact:
Thanks to my support, Automotive Lighting was one of the first companies in the industry to be prepared for the requirements of ISO 26262. I laid the foundation that enabled the company to proactively meet future OEM requirements for safety-related lighting systems, thereby securing a decisive competitive advantage.