An evolutionary IVHS communication architecture

A broad intelligent vehicle highway system (IVHS) communication architecture is described which features near-term implementation and affordability for basic user-services (real-time traffic reports, tolling, safety warnings) and includes higher level services such as navigation and route guidance. Four enabling communication techniques are exploited: (1) wide area broadcasting services, including the near-term Radio Broadcast Data Systems (RBDS) FM subcarrier and future DAB (Digital Audio Broadcast) systems integrated into entertainment receivers; (2) short-range vehicle-to-roadside communication (VRC/electronic tolling); (3) new IVHS frequency allocations in the 220 MHz band; and (4) a full-coverage MAYDAY emergency alerting system. These four techniques appear capable of flexibly delivering the entire range of IVHS user services and offer options for traffic authorities to match their local conditions.