At this year’s Diagnostics Conference in Dresden, DSA presented current approaches for advancing vehicle diagnostics in the context of software-defined vehicles. This focused on the consistent use of SOVD (Service-Oriented Vehicle Diagnostics) as the foundation for end-to-end diagnostic processes throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle.
As part of the technical program, Dr. Boris Böhlen presented the paper “On-Board Diagnostics with SOVD in Vehicle Production: Architecture and Practical Experience.” Using a series production project as an example, the presentation demonstrated how conventional off-board diagnostic concepts in manufacturing can be replaced by an on-board solution.
At the core of the approach is the relocation of diagnostic functionality into the vehicle itself. An integrated SOVD server executes the diagnostic workflows, while external test systems primarily assume a supporting role. Diagnostics therefore evolve from an external function into an integral part of the vehicle architecture.
The presented architecture enables greater flexibility in production processes. Diagnostic workflows can be executed independently of fixed test stations and distributed along the production line. At the same time, the need for dedicated tester hardware is significantly reduced, lowering both logistics efforts and operating costs.
Another key aspect is the reusability of diagnostic artifacts throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle. Diagnostic functions created and validated during engineering can be reused in production as well as in after-sales applications. SOVD provides a standardized interface that enables consistent access to both traditional ECUs and HPC-based systems.
In parallel with the presentation, DSA showcased its SOVD-based diagnostic solution at the accompanying exhibition in the context of the demonstrated architecture. In addition, the company presented its engineering toolchain, which provides end-to-end support ranging from the creation and validation of diagnostic artifacts through to their deployment.
The combination of the SOVD solution and the engineering toolchain specifically addresses the growing requirements for consistency and efficiency in diagnostic processes. By leveraging shared artifacts throughout all phases, redundant implementations can be avoided and changes can be implemented consistently across the entire lifecycle.
