TransCore, which manufactures transportation-based radio frequency identification (RFID) products, has developed a combined dedicated short-range communications
(DSRC) and long-range GPS and satellite communications modem for vehicle safety products.
Moving from multiple in-vehicle components to a highly integrated device will lower cost and provide coverage everywhere.
"This is precisely the right combination of technologies and platform to bring a vast array of safety applications into the automobile," said Kelly Gravelle, TransCore's chief technology officer. "Instead of building something from pieces and parts or limited to short-range communications, vehicle OEMs can incorporate a single integrated component into the vehicle with the attendant cost savings, space reduction and improved reliability."
The modem will also provide a more immediate means to support critical safety applications while the nationwide short-range communications (DSRC) infrastructure network is built out over the next few decades. As DSRC infrastructure becomes available, the system will take advantage of its low usage costs and tailored communication capabilities. In areas without DSRC, either the satellite communications capability or a conventional cellular link can be used to connect to the vehicle.
With GPS accuracy of up to one meter and the versatility of multiple channels to communicate with the vehicle, the modem will enable safety services in the near term as well as the foreseeable future. The new modem, based on TransCore's multimillion dollar research and development of a satellite-based modem for its GlobalWave asset tracking products, will not only be capable of using wideband DSRC locally for control and warnings (e.g., enabling "smart intersections"), but via its highly accurate GPS and satellite communications technology it will allow automated reporting of incidents, irrespective of the limitations of local terrestrial coverage. This blend of technologies will allow auto OEMs to deliver integrated preventative safety systems such as automated warnings and collision avoidance for fire, ambulance and police response.