Overview on dependable embedded systems in modern automotive

Abstract

This paper gives a theoretical foundation for understanding the challenges within electronics in the modern automotive industry from an embedded systems perspective, and also possible techniques to cope with these challenges. It describes different aspects of dependability for modern automotive electronics. Considering that safety cannot be compromised, several of the methods supporting safety must be utilized in order to achieve an acceptable level of safety. Some methods are found to be generally beneficial, like the introduction of system layering and modular components. But these methods should be introduced with care; the important factor to consider is the possibility for reuse of the designs in the system. Another tradeoff is the choice of reliable components and the level of redundancy, a balancing act between production costs and availability/maintenance costs.