UTILIZING WIRELESS COMMUNICATION APPLICATIONS TO IMPROVE TRANSPORTATION SAFETY & EFFICIENCY

Prepared by: Brad Tipler

June 27, 2015

ABSTRACT:

This technology research focused on how best to utilize different types of wireless communication technologies to effectively support various modes of transportation. More specifically, this research considered global trends in the next 10-20 years, compared the strengths and weaknesses of these technologies, and recommended best practices in utilizing these technologies on transportation-related applications in Canada. The study assessed various wireless communication technologies based on five key performance criteria: distance/range, throughput, power consumption, cost, and coexistence. The study examined twelve main wireless communication technologies, including: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Near Field Communications, Bluetooth©, Zigbee, ANT and ANT+, WiFi, WiFi Direct, Ultra Wide Band, Cellular, Satellite, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and Free Space Optical. The final report presents a technology tutorial on wireless communications, summarizes their potential opportunity and impacts on the Internet of Things, big data, texting while driving, and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in Canada. This report also offers practical advice using advanced technologies on safety improvement applications.

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