Project: Development of a multi-standard framework for the functional safety of large engine control systems
Client: Liebherr Machines (Bulle, Switzerland)
Period: January 2014 – April 2016
Role: Lead Functional Safety Consultant & Manager
Over a period of more than two years, I was entrusted with the fundamental and strategic task of establishing a comprehensive framework for functional safety in the development of control units for large engines at Liebherr. The particular challenge was to create a system that would meet there quirements of various target markets and regulations.
My core responsibilities and results:
- Establishment of a multi-standard framework: I designed and established a process-based and methodical landscape that not only used ISO 26262 (automotive) as a basis, but also integrated the requirements of IEC 61508 (industry), ISO 13849 / IEC 62061 (machine safety), ISO 25119 (agricultural/forestry machinery) and various MIL standards.
- Architecture and implementation of safety concepts: A central component of the safety concepts I developed was the architecture of eGas monitoring. I led the R&D activities in several parallel, highly complex development projects for various large engines (6 to 20 cylinders, including master-slave architectures) and ensured the correct implementation of the eGas safety strategy.
- Cross-location coordination: I coordinated safety-related development activities across multiple locations, in particular the close coordination with hardware development in Lindau, and acted as the direct technical contact for suppliers and end customers.
- Competence development and knowledge management: Through targeted training and continuous coaching in this complex multi-standard environment, I built up the know-how of the internal development teams and anchored a sustainable safety awareness in the organization.
Project completion:
After playing a key role in shaping the R&D landscape at Liebherr for over two years, a change in management led to a fundamental shift in the strategic direction and direct reporting structure for my role. As a result, I decided to end my very successful tenure there.
Project impact:
I enabled Liebherr to develop safety-critical control units for a wide range of regulated markets on a uniform, robust, and traceable process basis. The foundation I created still forms the basis for multi-standard-compliant development in this area today.
