Dependability of on-board automotive computer systems

This paper discusses the advantages and drawbacks of automobile computer systems, especially with respect to dependability. We consider two aspects: specification and validation of dependability objectives, and definition of dependable hardware and software architectures. The second aspect is discussed in more detail, focusing on the integration of the different subsystems into a global computer system. Different architectures are compared, taking into account the real-time environment, the logical and physical distribution of hardware and software, the allocation of functions to the subsystems and the communication between sensors, controllers and actuators. We argue that a global approach to dependability will be necessary to cope with the awaited functional integration.