System monitoring for lifetime prediction in automotive industry

Abstract

System monitoring in automotive industry has multiple demanding facets. Increasing complexity of control tasks in modern automobiles has caused a shift in the way we think about sensor and actuator functions. Support systems for controlling a highly efficient engine, handling difficult driving conditions and realizing outstanding comfort functions are what usually is understood as system monitoring in vehicles. However, a new aspect is gaining significant importance: system monitoring for life time prediction. This paper outlines the fundamentals of system monitoring for life time prediction in vehicles. The vision of "Car Health Management" is introduced. The particular example of oil condition monitoring is chosen to outline the concept of predictive maintenance. Technological challenges encountered with this new philosophy are discussed. As an example an autonomously operated oil sensing system is presented.