Fault tolerant mechatronics [automotive applications]

Modern cars exhibit a variety of new functionalities concerning engine management, safety, vehicle dynamics control as well as comfort and convenience. Safety features like airbags, antilock braking systems (ABS), anti-skid systems, belt tensioners or the electronic stability program (ESP) are standard fittings of present day car models and in some cases even stipulated by legislation. These safety systems have led to an increased avoidance of accidents by actively affecting vehicle dynamics and to a mitigation of the consequences of accidents on the driver and passengers by innovative restraint systems. As a rule these systems are mechatronic systems. Mechatronic systems today derive their functionality by an interlocked interaction of mechanics, electronics and information technology. Their deployment in the safety-relevant environment requires fault tolerance. Fault tolerant mechatronics is based on redundancy, which must be supervised and tested permanently. Reliability of sensor and actuator technology is essential for future motor vehicle systems. Operability and reliability are to be achieved by suitable on-board and on-line test methods. Exemplarily this is shown for future X-by-wire applications.