Vehicle Optical V2V Communication Using Lamp Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle-to-vehicle (v2v) networks face challenges in low latency and reliability due to the omnidirectional propagation of RF signals, leading to increased processing overhead and difficulty in managing channel assignments in heavy traffic scenarios, where vehicle subnets are constantly evolving.
Innovation Solution
A line-of-sight optical communication system using external lamp modules with LEDs and phototransistors for vehicles to form ad hoc networks, enabling low-latency communication between adjacent vehicles without the need for complex network management, relying on implicit subnets and optical signals for safety message exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RF signals are used for v2v communication, then communication coverage is achieved, but network management complexity increases due to omnidirectional propagation requiring channel assignment and subnet management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces RF electromagnetic wave propagation with visible light optical propagation. Light travels in straight lines and can be precisely directed using lenses and mirrors, replacing the omnidirectional RF signal model. This substitution enables spatially selective communication where transmitters can be aimed at specific receivers, eliminating the need for complex channel assignment and subnet management algorithms required by RF systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements directional communication where each optical transmitter is equipped with lenses and mirrors to focus light beams toward specific target vehicles. This creates localized communication channels between pairs or small groups of vehicles rather than omnidirectional broadcasting. The directional control enables precise spatial filtering, allowing vehicles to communicate only with those in their optical path without requiring network-wide coordination.
2Adaptability or versatility
If DSRC RF networks are used, then vehicle communication is enabled, but processing overhead increases to manage orthogonal channel assignments in evolving subnets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex RF network management software with simple optical physics-based spatial filtering. Lenses and mirrors naturally focus light beams without requiring digital signal processing or network management algorithms. This physical approach to channel separation eliminates the processing overhead required for orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing, time-division multiplexing, and other RF channel assignment techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical communication system uses the natural propagation characteristics of light combined with passive optical elements (lenses and mirrors) to automatically establish directional communication paths. The system self-organizes based on the geometric relationships between vehicles and their optical transceivers, eliminating the need for centralized network management or complex peer-to-peer negotiation protocols required in RF systems.
3Device complexity
If optical communication is used, then network overhead is reduced, but line-of-sight requirement may limit coverage in heavy traffic scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the spatial dimension by employing multiple optical transmitters and receivers positioned at different locations on each vehicle. This multi-point spatial distribution creates redundant communication paths, allowing vehicles to switch between different optical links if one is blocked. The system transitions from single-point to multi-point spatial diversity, adding a dimensional aspect to overcome line-of-sight limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces roadside infrastructure equipped with optical transmitters and receivers as intermediary nodes. These fixed installations positioned along roadways can relay optical signals between vehicles that cannot directly see each other, effectively creating optical reflection or relay paths around obstacles. The infrastructure acts as a mediator that extends the line-of-sight capability into non-line-of-sight scenarios through strategic positioning and signal relaying.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves low latency and high reliability in v2v communication by forming and reforming subnets quickly, reducing network overhead and avoiding interference issues, while maintaining existing vehicle infrastructure without additional power consumption or components.
Implementation Method 1
send messages via the light source(s)
Implementation Method 2
provide the ECU with a reception signal indicative of messages received via the light sensor(s)
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle line-of-sight optical communication system and method for use in ad hoc networks formed with a vehicle during traveling of the vehicle along a roadway. The communication system includes: an electronic control unit (ECU) having an electronic processor that operates under control of a program to process messages sent or received by the communication system; at least one light source that comprises a part of a vehicle external lamp module; a driver circuit electrically connected to the ECU to energize the light source(s) in response to a transmission signal from the ECU so as to send messages via the light source(s); at least one light sensor that comprises a part of the vehicle external lighting system; and a receiver circuit electrically connected to the ECU to provide the ECU with a reception signal indicative of messages received via the light sensor(s).