Vehicular Communication: Enhanced Networking Through Dynamic Spectrum Access

In this article, the viability of performing dynamic spectrum access (DSA) in vehicular wireless communication networks is presented using actual spectrum occupancy measurements of broadcast television (TV) channels, as well as a custom-written computer simulation software package designed to evaluate at-scale vehicular networking deployments. In a world that is extensively dependent on access to information, reliable wireless communications serve a vital role in facilitating everyday activities taken for granted by modern society. Activities such as financial transactions, public safety operations, educational programs, national defense, and social interactions require some form of wireless communications to enable information exchange. One sector that is increasingly employing wireless communications is the automotive industry. Whether it is vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) or vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) information exchanges, innovations in enabling vehicular wireless communications have the potential to enhance the driving experience, especially with respect to increasing driver awareness and situation perception to ensure overall vehicular safety.