Recent advancements in visible-light communication (VLC) technology have the potential to revolutionize how passengers consume multimedia content while on the move. A research team led by Carlos Iván del Valle Morales from the Photonic Displays and Applications Group at the University Carlos III of Madrid has developed a hardware design for optoelectronic interfaces that facilitate the transmission of ultra-high-definition (UHD) audio-visual content in passenger vans.
As urban commuting times continue to rise, the demand for on-the-go entertainment has surged. Traditional wireless communication methods, such as WiFi, often struggle with issues like low signal coverage and limited bandwidth, especially in crowded environments. The VLC system proposed by Morales and his team addresses these challenges by utilizing existing reading lamps in vehicles to transmit data through visible light. This innovative approach not only enhances the user experience but also makes use of infrastructure that is already in place.
The system consists of two main components: a LiFi router, which handles the downlink channel using visible light, and a USB dongle for the uplink, which employs infrared light. The LiFi router operates at a supply voltage of 12 V and can connect to standard voltage buses in vehicles, while the USB dongle is designed to connect directly to a device’s USB port, making it easy for users to access the service.
Morales emphasized the versatility of the system, stating, “By employing OFDM modulation, our system can achieve data rates comparable to those reported in prior studies.” In tests, the VLC system achieved a downlink bandwidth of 11.66 MHz and uplink bandwidth of 12.27 MHz, with bit rates of 15.2 Mbps and 11.25 Mbps reached using different modulation schemes. This performance demonstrates the system’s capability to stream UHD video effectively, even in a moving vehicle.
The commercial implications of this technology are significant. Public transportation operators could enhance their service offerings by providing passengers with high-quality streaming options, potentially increasing ridership and customer satisfaction. Moreover, the system’s ability to operate without electromagnetic interference makes it a reliable choice for densely populated public transport environments like buses and trains.
Additionally, the research team has taken steps to ensure sustainability in their design. A solar panel installed on the roof of the passenger van powers the user’s laptop and the USB dongle, creating a self-sufficient system that can operate independently of the vehicle’s power supply. Morales noted, “This characteristic renders the user’s side of the system entirely self-powered.”
This innovative research, published in the journal Sensors, opens up new avenues for the integration of VLC technology in public transport, potentially transforming the way passengers engage with multimedia content during their journeys. As cities continue to grow and commuting becomes an integral part of daily life, solutions like the VLC system developed by Morales and his team could pave the way for a more connected and enjoyable travel experience.
