Analysis on Impact of SUMS(R156) update on Functional Safety

Now a days, with the increasing integration of advanced technology in modern vehicles, manufacturers are now able to update their software seamlessly, thereby enhancing functionality and ensuring optimal performance. Therefore, SUMS has been introduced to enhance vehicle security, improve performance, and ensure that the latest software enhancements and fixes can be delivered efficiently without the need for physical service station visits. With this increasing complexity and ensure connectivity of modern vehicles, necessitates robust systems to manage software updates. Within this context, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe's Regulation No. 156 (UN R156) provides specific requirements for Software Update Management Systems (SUMS) to ensure safety, security, and traceability. The evaluation of R156-compliant SUMS within the framework of functional safety protocols, such as ISO 26262 for automotive presents numerous technical challenges. This paper aims to analyze the impact of R156-compliant SUMS update on the system/item, in accordance with the functional safety standard ISO 26262. This paper addresses how the safety life cycle is influenced by various software flashing methods and potential effects of R156-compliant SUMS updates on work products related to the functional safety standard ISO 26262 using an assessment checklist. Consequently, this paper will provide a guidance for conducting Impact analysis under the ISO 26262 framework when an R156 SUMS update is initiated.