Contents I. Introduction
In the last decade, an increasing number of sensors and actuators have been employed in automotive systems [1], analogously to the aeronautic system devices that are today implemented on the vehicles [2]. The first reason is that the correct operation of modern electronically controlled engines is based on a high number of measurements (e.g., crankshaft speed, crankshaft position, inlet manifold pressure, inlet manifold air and coolant temperatures, battery voltage, throttle position, and air fuel ratio at the exhaust) [3]. Moreover, the growing demand on security and comfort pushes toward an increasing use of suitable sensors and actuators. The antilock braking system and anti-spin traction control are now used in every new vehicle [4]. Environmental sensors are used both for measuring and optimizing in-vehicle conditions, and for evaluating the outside conditions (presence of ice, intensity of rain, road characteristics, and visibility). Anti-crash sensors and GPS are further sensor systems set up to improve the security and comfort of modern automotive systems. The driver status is also planned to be on-line monitored by more complex measurement systems that are aimed to reduce the number of crashes due to human errors [5].
