Vehicle Architecture

This chapter aims to show the evolution of the architecture of a car or an aircraft and their functions, associated with the transformation of an increasingly autonomous product. The introduction of vehicles with different levels of autonomy poses legislative problems. Vehicle autonomy relies on computer technology, which has long been a hindrance due to limitations in onboard systems, as well as on sensor and actuator technology. Artificial intelligence provides a building block that will undoubtedly be decisive for autonomous decision-making. To understand the challenges that may be encountered when implementing autonomous vehicles, it is important to analyze the aircraft flight control and piloting system in terms of technology, safety and reliability. Due to safety aspects, the reliability requirements in aeronautics are more stringent than in the automotive industry. This justifies a slower pace of technological development in aeronautics compared to the automotive industry.