The BMW New Class – “The heart of joy”

The BMW control unit “Heart of Joy” of the New Class integrates a variety of functions aimed at optimizing the driving experience and vehicle performance.

In the development of the new class, Sensified also makes a significant contribution with its domain expertise, focusing on critical areas such as software security (ISO 26262), software architecture, cybersecurity, basic software (BSW), hardware-software integration (HSI), diagnostics, communication, and software reprogramming.

Key technical functions summarized

Central control and networking

The “Heart of Joy” serves as the central control unit, coordinating various electronic systems within the vehicle. It integrates and networks all relevant vehicle components and systems, facilitates smooth communication, and optimizes the overall performance of the vehicle.

Driver assistance and safety

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) support technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, emergency brake assist, and parking assistance. At the same time, the system continuously monitors various safety parameters and automatically takes action when necessary.

Energy and battery management

Efficient energy management optimizes the utilization and distribution of energy in the vehicle, especially in electric and hybrid models. At the same time, the system monitors the condition and performance of the battery, optimizes charging processes, and maximizes the range.

Infotainment and connectivity

The infotainment system controls central functions such as navigation, multimedia, and communication. At the same time, it supports various connectivity options such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Car-to-X communication to connect the vehicle with external devices and services.

Vehicle dynamics and performance

The drivetrain control regulates the power of the drivetrain and optimizes both acceleration and driving behavior. Simultaneously, the chassis management controls adaptive suspension components to improve ride comfort and handling.

Personalization and user profiles

The system stores individual settings and preferences of the drivers, such as seat position, mirror positions, and climate control settings. Additionally, it allows for creating and managing multiple user profiles to provide a personalized driving experience.

Over-the-Air-Updates

The system supports wireless software updates (Over-the-Air) to keep the control unit and other vehicle software up to date and add new features.

Environmental and emissions control

The emissions management monitors and controls emissions to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and minimize environmental impact. At the same time, the system continuously analyzes and optimizes fuel consumption and emissions to increase efficiency.

The conclusion regarding the technical features

These features make the BMW control unit “Heart of Joy” an integral part of BMW’s new class of vehicles, integrating state-of-the-art technologies to enhance safety, comfort, efficiency, and the driving experience.

Road safety clearance

We ensure with our team that the stringent safety standards of ISO 26262 are adhered to and met to ensure the reliability and compliance of the ECU. Our experts develop and implement comprehensive technical security and cybersecurity concepts to ensure the integrity and safety of the software. Furthermore, we support all activities related to the safety case to ensure complete and traceable safety documentation. In this context, we conduct safety analyses such as FMEDA (Failure Mode Effects and Diagnostic Analysis), DFA (Dependent Failure Analysis), and FTA (Fault Tree Analysis) to define appropriate safety mechanisms.

Creation of essential ASPICE artifacts

We use CodeBeamer for detailed documentation of software requirements and employ MagicDraw for modeling and visualizing a robust software architecture. Additionally, we develop comprehensive test design specifications to ensure software quality. We ensure full traceability of all development artifacts according to the requirements of ASPICE (Automotive SPICE).

Additional technical support

We assist with integrating the AUTOSAR architecture and configuring the Basic Software (BSW). Additionally, we analyze and resolve software errors to ensure the smooth operation of the ECU.

The outcome of the project

Through our comprehensive expertise and the use of proven methods and tools, Sensified Solutions has made a significant contribution to the safety and efficiency of the driving functions ECU for the Munich-based OEM. Our commitment to highest standards in software security, architecture, and quality has contributed to securing road traffic safety approval and ensuring compliance with ASPICE requirements. Continuous technical support and resolving integration issues have laid the foundation for a reliable and future-proof ECU.