Researchers from the University of Fortaleza in Brazil, led by Pedro E. Gória Silva and including Eduardo S. Lima, Jules M. Moualeu, Mohamed Korium, and Pedro H. J. Nardelli, have published a comprehensive tutorial on the implementation of visible light communication (VLC) in vehicular networks and intelligent transportation systems (ITS). Their work, titled “Visible Light Communication for Vehicular Networks: A Tutorial,” was published in the IEEE Communications Surveys & Tutorials journal.
The researchers explain that the advent of fifth-generation (5G) technology is expected to bring about new applications and services, including vehicular networks and ITS. These networks rely on short-range to medium-range communications for real-time and safety applications. VLC is an emerging technology that aims to provide reliable and high-data rate communications over short ranges. The study provides an extended tutorial on the implementation of VLC-based vehicular networks, discussing the underlying system structure, standardization efforts, and types of topologies.
The researchers present the implementation characteristics of these systems, including the impact of the sun and artificial light sources, flickering, dimming, throughput enhancement, uplink security, and mobility. They also highlight key challenges and potential solutions, providing directions for future research that could advance the development of commercial VLC-based vehicular systems.
For the energy sector, VLC technology could offer a more energy-efficient and secure communication method for smart grids and other energy infrastructure. By using light to transmit data, VLC can reduce the need for radio frequency (RF) communications, which can be more energy-intensive and susceptible to interference. Additionally, VLC can provide a more secure communication channel, as light signals are contained within a specific line of sight and cannot be easily intercepted or jammed.
In practical applications, VLC could be used for communication between smart meters and other grid devices, enabling real-time monitoring and control of energy distribution. It could also be used for communication between electric vehicles and charging stations, providing a secure and efficient way to transmit data about charging status, energy prices, and other relevant information. As the researchers note, further advancements in VLC technology and standardization efforts will be necessary to realize its full potential in the energy sector and other industries.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.