Infineon boosts automotive
AUTOSAR is developing software interfaces and software modules for automotive systems. InfineonÕs focus is on the standardisation of hardware-dependent software as part of the AUTOSAR architecture framework. After specification, Infineon intends to make standard-compliant software available for its XC16x family of 16-bit microcontrollers as well as products based on its 32bit TriCore architecture. A first solid draft of the standard is expected to be available by mid 2005 with first series vehicle production implementations in 2008.
Automotive manufacturers and system suppliers set up the AUTOSAR development partnership in September 2003 to ensure the establishment of an open standard for automotive electrical/electronic (E/E) architecture that will serve as a basis for the management of functions within both future applications and standard software modules.
The FlexRay industry consortium is seeking to standardise an advanced automotive fault-tolerant communication system. Infineon expects to provide its first product implementation - a prototype FlexRay protocol controller - in mid 2005. With additional 16bit and 32bit microcontrollers featuring embedded FlexRay and dedicated to safety and powertrain applications, Infineon will complete its product roadmap for high-speed and secure automotive buses.
FlexRay technology aims to be a standard for innovative high-speed control applications in the car, such as X-by-wire control. It consists of electronic hardware and software, providing a fault tolerant, deterministic solution for such safety-critical applications as braking and steering.