Functional safety in vehicles

Abstract

In the past fifteen years, the number of electronic systems in vehicles has increased considerably. In the 1980s, most vehicles did not even have airbags, let alone electronic stability programs (ESP). Today, highly complex electronic safety systems have become increasingly widespread. Systems relevant to safety such as ABS, ESP, or active steering have demonstrably reduced the number of road fatalities and injuries. However, although these systems are clearly beneficial, if they do not function according to the specifications, they are not only rendered ineffective, but can even cause dangerous driving situations. “Functional safety” is an instrument that identifies and prevents dangerous situations on the road.