How do engineers measure the total light output from an LED or laser, accurately and without angular bias?
As optical technology advances across industries like automotive, aerospace, and electronics, the need for precise, standardized light measurement becomes increasingly critical. One instrument that has become indispensable in labs and production lines alike is the Integrating Sphere.
But what exactly is it, how does it function, and why is it so crucial to accurate optical measurement?
In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles (EVs), user experience and intuitive design are the key differentiators. One such critical component enhancing usability is the Charge Port Indicator (CPI), which provides clear visual feedback on the charging status of the vehicle.
APAGCoSyst undertook the challenge of designing and manufacturing a Charge Port Indicator from concept through to mass production. This case study outlines the end-to-end development process, emphasizing APAGCoSyst’s capabilities in system design, cost optimization, and user-centric engineering.
The Driver Alert Light project focuses on developing a safety-critical lighting system for automotive applications. The system consists of a driver alert light control module that controls multiple LED actuator ECUs, each corresponding to smaller individual R, G, B, Y LED actuator ECUs. These components are connected via LIN.
The project adheres to ASIL A(C) compliance as per ISO 26262 standards, ensuring high safety and reliability in both hardware and software development.
Acquiring components in the electronics industry is a complex task for the procurement and sourcing teams. They must stay updated with industry changes, technology advancements, current trends, and new regulations in the automotive sector. Also, managing costs while maintaining the quality of electronic parts is a serious challenge.
Today, we have Klaus Wandler, the VP of Strategic Procurement at APAGCoSyst, who talks to us about the challenges and disruptions in the supply chain, and other key changes affecting the procurement and sourcing departments in the automotive industry. Let us explore what lies ahead and how to overcome procurement challenges in the electronics manufacturing industry.
Thank you for your time, Klaus. Shall we start with you telling us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Klaus Wandler, and I head the strategic procurement function for APAGCoSyst. I have just completed my 40th year in the industry and I have worked mostly with automotive companies. One of the most impactful experiences in my career was my time with Faurecia, now called Forvia, where I worked for seven years. This was a great opportunity for me as I was exposed to many different functions of business, including logistics, and supply chain. This experience helped me understand the lifecycle of materials in each of its stages until it reaches the customer.
Electronic component and services sales in the automotive industry is a complex task for the Sales Development and Customer Account teams. They must stay updated with industry changes, technology advancements, current trends, and new regulations in the automotive sector. Also, managing relationships (both internal and external) while driving for both scale and revenue growth is a consistent challenge.
Today, we have Dan McGregor, the VP of Global Sales at APAGCoSyst, who talks to us about the challenges and ever-changing circumstances in sales support, and other key changes affecting customer expectations and demands in the automotive industry. Let us explore what lies ahead and how to address and satisfy customer needs in the automotive industry.
At APAGCoSyst, innovation drives everything we do. Our Research and Development (R&D) division serves as the backbone of our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions in the automotive, medical, and industrial sectors. With R&D centers strategically located in Canada, Germany, and India, we leverage global expertise to develop advanced electronic systems tailored to the needs of a rapidly evolving world.
As Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) in the electronics industry evolve to serve technological needs and advancements, they are getting smaller. These circuit boards are sometimes less than 1 cm. Today, electronics manufacturers have adopted advanced applications in the manufacturing process and can cater to the needs of the industries. One of the crucial elements of the manufacturing processes to produce minuscule circuit boards is the depanelling machine, which separates individual boards from a larger panel.
The Convergence of Automotive SPICE® and Cybersecurity
The automotive industry is currently facing a significant challenge where two crucial aspects of software development must be brought together – quality and cybersecurity. Merging Automotive SPICE® (Software Process Improvement and Capability Determination) with cybersecurity practices is not just a matter of enhancing process quality.
Instead, it is a critical strategic alliance that will reinforce the foundation of automotive software development against the increasing threats of the digital age. Automotive SPICE® provides a comprehensive and structured approach to evaluating software development processes. This model guarantees that the processes are capable of providing high-quality software consistently.
This process assessment model outlines the best practices throughout the software development lifecycle. By integrating Automotive SPICE® with cybersecurity practices, the automotive industry can ensure that its software development meets the highest standards of quality and security, thereby securing the assets of the ECU.
Cybersecurity in the automotive domain is the shield against digital threats. It encompasses a set of strategies, technologies, and practices designed to protect vehicles from cyber-attacks. The importance of cybersecurity today has multiplied tenfold in the automotive industry, thanks to connected and autonomous vehicles. It is safe to say that cybersecurity has become an integral part of automotive engineering. Starting in July 2024 UNECE R155 will be mandatory for all new vehicles in the EU. This UNECE 155 regulation requires a Cybersecurity management system in all new vehicle classes.
Integrating Automotive SPICE® with cybersecurity is crucial for the security of vehicles. Embedding cybersecurity strategy into the DNA of automotive software processes shows that security considerations are not an afterthought. But they are ingrained into the entire software development lifecycle.
The Automotive SPICE for the cybersecurity process reference model is shown below. The highlighted sections in green are added for cybersecurity compliance in a project.
In this diagram, taken from the Automotive SPICE® Process reference and assessment model for cybersecurity engineering by VDA, you see that the Cybersecurity Engineering Process Group (SEC), Acquisition Process Group (ACQ), and Management Process Group (MAN) are the process areas that are affected.
The SEC consists of processes performed to achieve cybersecurity goals. The ACQ consists of processes that are performed by the customer, or the supplier when acting as a customer for its own suppliers, to acquire a product and/or services. The MAN consists of processes that may be used by anyone who manages any type of project or process within the lifecycle.
Let us deep dive into how cybersecurity activities converge into the Automotive SPICE® process by understanding each of these additional cybersecurity steps:
Enhanced Requirements Management (SEC.1)
The cybersecurity requirements elicitation step in the cybersecurity engineering process group is performed with the sole purpose of deriving cybersecurity goals and requirements from the outcomes of risk management. This is also done to ensure consistency between requirement analysis report, cybersecurity goals, and cybersecurity system requirement specification document.
Developing the Item for Defence (SEC.2)
In the cybersecurity implementation stage or the SEC.2 stage, the purpose remains to allocate the cybersecurity requirements to the elements of the system and software and ensure they are implemented. As a result of the successful implementation of this process, the system and software architectural design is refined. Software units are designed and implemented. It also includes the cybersecurity controls and vulnerability analysis report.
Rigorous Security Testing Practice (SEC.3)
The next step is the risk treatment verification. This process helps to confirm that the implementation and integration of the components comply with the cybersecurity requirements, the refined architectural design, and the detailed design. Key documents that are developed at this stage are cybersecurity verification strategy, test specifications, and test results.
Risk Treatment Validation (SEC.4)
In the next phase, the OEM validates and confirms that the integrated system achieves the associated cybersecurity goals. Important documents that are developed in the risk treatment validation phase are cybersecurity validation strategy, test specifications, and test results.
Cybersecurity Risk Management (MAN.7)
There is also a process that integrates cybersecurity risk handling into Automotive SPICE®, which is the cybersecurity risk management or MAN.7. The purpose of the process is to identify, prioritize, and analyze risks of damage to relevant stakeholders and as well as monitor and control respective risk treatment options continuously. The output work products of this stage are a risk management plan, recovery plan, cybersecurity scenario register, threat analysis and risk assessment (TARA), and risk status report.
Take Away
Now that we have understood the relationship between Automotive SPICE® and the cybersecurity process in the automotive industry, here are the work products that can be extended for cybersecurity. They are requirement, design, verification strategy, test specifications, test results, and others. It is important to know that these documents have synergies with Automotive SPICE, when cybersecurity framework is added to the project. As work products, these cybersecurity documents can be merged with existing ASPICE®-compliant documents as their added sections.
Certified Partner to Strengthen Your Automotive Project
APAGCoSyst prides itself on the unwavering commitment to building trust with our customers. We achieve this through the development of innovative automotive products and processes that meet the highest security standards. We cater to many clients, including multiple automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers in Europe, North America, and Asia. We also serve customers in various industries, such as agriculture, industrial, and medical.
Our ISO 21434-certified cybersecurity experts work on every product adhering to the most robust security standards, ensuring that your vehicles remain protected against cyber threats in today’s interconnected landscape. We invite you to connect with our cybersecurity team to explore how we can assist you in creating a secure product. Contact us today to fortify your automotive innovations with our industry-leading security solutions.
APAGCoSyst prides itself on delivering top-notch industrial automation solutions to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Since its inception in 2018, our Industrial Automation team has been at the forefront of designing and producing customized assembly lines. These automated lines play a crucial role in achieving high-volume production for APAGCoSyst’s electronics projects.
Combining Design and Production Expertise
Our industry automation team relies on close collaboration. Our production lines are strategically designed and manufactured in partnership with our facilities in Windsor, Canada, and Pardubice, Czech Republic. Our Industrial Automation team is divided between two primary locations: the APAG development center in Nürnberg, Germany, and an independent manufacturing facility located in Pilsen, Czech Republic. Additionally, we have another dedicated team stationed directly at our Canadian plant.
The synergy between our automation and product development teams is crucial. By joining forces with the product design team, our automation heroes manage to prepare the production and automation concepts right from the early stages of product design. This ensures a smooth industrialization process and the subsequent production of our products. From concept to manufacturing, our Industrial Automation specialists have you covered.
Tailored Automation Solutions
At the heart of APAG’s Industrial Automation expertise lies the know-how to craft tailor-made automation solutions for a variety of clients and needs. Our Industrial Automation team specializes in the design and implementation of complex components and custom assemblies, all produced within our facility. With a focus on delivering the highest quality, we have comprehensive testing capabilities in place to verify the functionality and quality of every part produced on our lines.
To ensure our processes adhere to the highest industry standards, our development process is certified according to Automotive IATF requirements. This certification guarantees that we meet and exceed our customers’ expectations, no matter how stringent their demands may be.
Covering the Full Spectrum of Manufacturing Excellence
The expertise of our automation department supervises the entire production process, from its inception to the final packaging design. By handling a variety of processes within the manufacturing value chain, we provide comprehensive solutions for our clients.
The full-scale competencies can be seen in the video below where the Vice President of the automation team, Arnaud Richard demonstrates the details of our recent project. A fully functional assembly line, ready to be shipped to our production plant in Canada, is designed specifically to produce electronic parts for interior illumination in vehicles.
Our automation team’s mastery is spread out through a gamut of processes and techniques, from the precision of laser cutting and the finesse of pick & place to the depth of 2D and 3D optical inspections and the scrutiny of in-circuit and functional testing. Finally, at the end of the line, we also take care of the labelling and packaging of products.
Over the years, we have mastered the art of robot soldering, laser soldering, heat staking, plasma activation, and curing processes. Our diverse skill set allows us to handle a wide range of automation requirements and cater to various industries.
Let Us Bring Your Product to Life
No matter the nature of your product, we are eager to assist you with its development and production. We go above and beyond in expanding our knowledge and capabilities to remain at the forefront of industrial automation technologies. APAGCoSyst is looking forward to bringing your ideas to life.
All you have to do is contact our Industrial Automation team today and we would be happy to discuss how we can turn your automation needs into reality. Together, we can achieve extraordinary results.
APAGCoSyst provides innovative solutions for industrial lighting and automotive applications. Initially focused on electronics, we have since expanded into lighting systems, leveraging our expertise in the electronics behind lighting. We have also made a breakthrough in door handle lighting using LEDs, which we have seamlessly integrated into our solutions.
Our expert research and development team is committed to developing innovative components producing high-quality light with a balanced distribution and appropriate colors. We work with clients to create solutions highlighting design elements and accentuating specific room components. Moreover, we aim to provide a service that spans the full process, from design to production.
Benefits of an Optimized Lighting System
The automotive industry heavily relies on lighting to ensure the safety and visibility of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Automotive lighting design includes several crucial elements, such as headlights, taillights, and interior lights.
Various lighting technologies — such as LED, halogen, and xenon — are available, and increasingly advanced solutions are constantly emerging to improve driver visibility. These alternatives include adjustable headlights, laser lights, and OLED lighting.
Here are some benefits of an optimized automotive lighting system, particularly the use of LEDs:
Ensures Safety in Road Traffic
LED lighting significantly helps ensure road traffic safety by effectively providing lights in automobiles’ exteriors. They illuminate the lane and help drivers notice hazards, traffic signs, and the road. In addition, an optimized external lighting system ensures that pedestrians see the vehicle’s presence, understand the driver’s intentions, and respond appropriately.
Reduces Maintenance and Replacement Costs
An optimized LED lighting system in the automotive industry boasts a considerably longer lifespan than traditional lighting technologies, such as halogen or xenon bulbs. As a result, LED lights can last up to 25 times longer, leading to fewer replacements. This feature can result in substantial savings on replacement costs, particularly for large commercial or public transportation vehicles.
Enhances Aesthetic Appeal
LED lights are offered in various shapes, sizes, and colors, giving designers a vast selection of alternatives for adding individuality to designs. Moreover, these lights are easily adjustable in brightness, colors, and patterns, allowing drivers to add a personal touch to the lighting system.
Improves Energy Efficiency
Optimized LED lights are known to be eco-friendly and energy-efficient since they utilize less energy and generate lower heat output than conventional lights. This reduces fuel usage and greenhouse gas emissions. In the current times the CO2 footprint gains importance throughout the supply chain until the final user which many companies actively watch to minimize in their processes and products, making the LEDs an environmentally sustainable and safe option.
Lighting Solutions From APAGCoSyst
With extensive expertise in both interior and exterior lighting design, APAGCoSyst offers turnkey solutions through a single-source team, ensuring the shortest possible lead times. Our services include installing auto lighting control and high-quality collaboration for even the most complex mechanical building design and assembly projects.
Our core lighting design and manufacturing competencies include the following:
Integrating electronics
Optics
Mechanics
Light simulation and protection
Connectors integration
Interior LED lighting and finishing technology
Our solutions provide exterior and interior lighting design expertise, ensuring the vehicle’s and its occupants’ safety by protecting against hazards while improving the overall driving experience. Our proficiency in Electronic Control Units (ECUs) also allows us to integrate smart lighting alternatives into our designs.
Design Lighting
APAGCoSyst offers lighting design services to the automotive industry and other sectors looking to integrate better systems into their products. We provide innovative solutions to meet all design needs, including but not limited to the following:
Door handles
Interior ambients
Reading lights
Lighted logos
Running boards
Exterior feature lighting
Front grill illuminations
Partner With APAGCoSyst for High-Quality Lighting Solutions
At APAGCoSyst, our expertise lies in optical simulations, customized production automation, and cost-effectiveness! We also focus on bringing concepts to life as lighting solutions rapidly become a branding and design statement for industries.
We cater to many clients, including multiple automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers in Europe, North America, and Japan. We also serve customers in various industries, such as agriculture, industrial, and medical. Contact us today to see how our advanced electronics design and manufacturing capabilities can fit your application.
