AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEM ENGINEERING

Systems Engineering has long been established in the fields of avionics and software development. In the automotive sector too, we are witnessing an increasing number of systems engineering approaches. Nonetheless, a distinct profile has still to be developed that clearly defines its limits and interfaces with other development and research areas and gives a specific identity to automotive systems engineering. Consequently, conferences and publications offering opportunities to exchange experience on this topic are also lacking. Despite the fact that many scientists and practitioners are working on Automotive Systems Engineering issues, a pinpointed community has not yet emerged that covers at least the major areas involved. Automotive Systems Engineering pools many disciplines, from control engineering, test development, development of mechanical engineering, electrical and electronic hardware and software. And through ergonomics, issues of human physiology and psychology also permeate through the driver-vehicle system.

Automotive Systems Engineering combines a multiple of disciplines, but being ‘‘sandwiched’’ between so many different stools its position is also weakened. Personal talks between the editors on this situation lead to a workshop where ASE- related activities were presented and an intensive exchange of experience was ini- tiated. The successful outcome resulted in this publication with the ambition of encouraging an exchange of experience beyond our two institutes. The topics covered in each chapter have their roots in doctoral theses still ongoing or nearing completion. They present the state of science centering on development method- ology and with a limited application focus. A clear heterogeneity is visible both within and between the institutes, although it would be feasible and also desirable to reach more harmonised approaches. The perspective pursued with this publication, therefore, is to enhance standardisation, both in the terminology used and in pre- valent definitions for methods—a common process when building communities. By means of workshops and specialised publications, we intend to advance the com- munity-building process together with a wider range of partners from academia and industry and trust that the present work will provide an appropriate foundation.

Alongside chapters presenting scientific studies, the editors’ subjective per- spectives on the topic are added, leaning on talks and lectures and their back- ground experience in academia and industry.

We wish our readers stimulating reading and look forward to receiving a wide spectrum of feedback to help us tread the path towards an automotive systems engineering community.

Markus Maurer Hermann Winner