Distributed V2X Module Layout for Trailer Occlusion Gaps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Longer ego vehicles, such as semi-tractor-trailer trucks, face challenges in ensuring safe and reliable V2X communication due to signal occlusion by the trailer and its load, which limits data transmission quality and reliability, especially in platooning modes.
Innovation Solution
A V2X communication unit comprising at least two spatially separated modules linked by a logic module to create a combined transmission and reception area, allowing for coordinated data evaluation and transmission, thereby extending the coverage and reliability of V2X signals across the vehicle's length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a single V2X module is installed centrally in the tractor vehicle, then the device complexity is reduced, but the transmission and reception area is limited due to occlusion by the trailer and its load
Solution Approach 1:
The V2X communication system is divided into multiple spatially separated V2X modules distributed along the length of the ego vehicle. Each module has its own transmitting and receiving units, allowing the system to overcome occlusion areas by having multiple distributed communication points rather than a single centralized module.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point (0D) or localized (2D) V2X module installation to a distributed linear arrangement along the vehicle's length (1D extension). This spatial distribution across multiple dimensions allows the system to cover areas that would otherwise be occluded by the trailer.
2Reliability
If two lateral antennas are arranged on the tractor vehicle, then the occlusion area is minimized, but signal quality remains limited in certain regions due to the length of the ego vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on two antennas at single locations, the system segments the communication function into multiple V2X modules distributed along the vehicle. Each module provides localized transmission and reception, collectively covering the entire vehicle length and eliminating dead zones.
Solution Approach 2:
Each V2X module is equipped with its own transmitting and receiving units, providing localized high-quality communication at each module's position. This ensures that every section of the vehicle has dedicated communication capability rather than relying on distant antennas.
3Area of stationary object
If V2X modules are spatially separated along the vehicle length, then the transmission and reception area is extended, but the device complexity increases due to multiple modules
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple spatially separated V2X modules are logically combined into a single coordinated system. The modules work together as an integrated communication unit, with their individual transmission and reception areas merging to form a comprehensive coverage zone along the entire vehicle length.
4Reliability
If a single V2X module is used, then the system is simpler to operate, but data transmission reliability cannot be ensured in occlusion areas
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system is segmented into multiple independent V2X modules that can operate autonomously. This segmentation ensures that if one module experiences occlusion or failure, other modules can maintain communication, thereby improving overall reliability without requiring complex centralized control.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication unit, for wirelessly transmitting and/or receiving V2X signals comprising data in a vehicle, includes a plurality of V2X modules. Each respective V2X module is connected to at least one antenna configured to transmit and/or receive the V2X signals in a transmission and reception area. Each respective V2X module comprises at least a transmitting unit configured to modulate data to be transmitted via the V2X signals, and/or a receiving unit configured to demodulate data received via the V2X signals. Each V2X module includes a data interface configured to transmit the data to be transmitted and/or the data received via the V2X signal and a logic module. The plurality of V2X modules includes at least two spatially separated V2X modules. The logic module is configured to link the at least two V2X modules in such a way that a logical unit is configured.