System architecture and its use in safety-related telematics systems

The term ´system architecture´ has many slightly different definitions and/or uses. A system architecture becomes essential when a number of subsystems are being integrated. Integration is not simply concerned with the communication between the subsystems but also any conflicting assumptions inherent in each subsystem. The Converge-SA methodology fits each definition of system architecture into one of four levels of abstraction. The resultant system architecture provides the basis for a family of working and workable systems. The paper discusses levels of system architecture and its use in safety-related telematics systems.