DeviceGuru

An in-progress online survey by a researcher at the Technical University of Dresden is attempting to assess the potential of Optical Wireless Communications (OWC) technology in various markets, including vehicular applications. Interested participants are encouraged to vote, and in return will receive a copy of the survey’s results.

“Optical Wireless Communications is a very interesting, upturning, but also challenging topic,” notes the survey’s web page. “Recently there have been enormous advances in light emitting diodes, laser diodes, and photodiodes in visible light, infrared and ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths.”

The survey’s author describes OWC as a promising, competitive wireless technology option with additional benefits such as energy efficiency, flexible unlicensed spectrum usage, no electromagnetic interference, and improved security.

According to the survey’s web page…

• The Infrared Data Association (IrDA) standardized the IrDA protocol for the short-range exchange of data via infrared light. Within IrDA, data rates up to 1 Gbps (Giga-IR) are now supported.
• Visible Light Communications (VLC) is an emerging technology that is now being used in numerous research projects. VLC technology has been pioneered by the VLCC (visible light communication consortium) in Japan. The significant interest within the research community has led to the formation of the IEEE 802.15.7 VLC Taskgroup.

OWC is potentially useful in a wide range of markets and applications, including several that apply to Intelligent Transport Systems and connected vehicles, according to the survey’s web page.

Typical applications are expected to include:

• Mobile-to-mobile communications, including content and file distribution
• Terminals and wireless docking stations, for communication between infrastructure, fixed, and mobile devices
• Vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), for road pricing, navigation, and transmitting traffic relevant information to enhance driving safety
• Next-generation home networks, as part of a hybrid home area network (WOBAN)
• Broadcasting applications, for example outdoor advertising, information distribution, and use of LED light spots as Internet access points
• Underwater applications, between divers and remotely operated vehicles
• Sensor networks, for sensor interconnection and sensor-monitor-links
• Hospital, healthcare, and medical equipment, for health maintenance and management systems
• Defense and military Applications, for enabling high data rate wireless communications within military vehicles and aircraft
• Industrial equipment, for machine maintenance, information transmission, and data collection

To participate in the market study by completing the short, online questionnaire, visit the survey’s website.