Mechatronic systems combine the advantages of mechanical engineering, computer science and electronics, especially with regard to the innovative performance of advanced functions. This leads to intelligent and frequently complex systems whose remarkable functionality is, however, quite often accompanied by the risk of poor reliability or even safety. These aspects are frequently subsumed under the heading of dependability, especially in the field of information technology (Laprie 1992). In order to determine the present state of the application of dependability oriented design methods, an industry survey was made, whose results will be presented. Adapted from these results, the paper sketches an approach of a "design for dependability". Main results of the survey are presented in this paper. In particular, investigations of most practiced methods in industry and future requirements for the "design for dependability" provide important issues. For example nearly 80% of the companies suppose that the use of methods for dependability will increase. In contrast only a few companies integrate these methods into their design process yet.
展开▼
