Heterogeneous V2V Communications in Multi-Link and Multi-RAT Vehicular Networks

TL;DR

This paper introduces a decentralized, context-aware heterogeneous V2V communication algorithm for multi-link and multi-RAT vehicular networks, enhancing bandwidth efficiency and scalability for connected automated vehicles.

Contribution

It presents the first distributed, technology-agnostic V2V communication algorithm that enables autonomous, dynamic selection of communication technologies based on application needs and context.

Findings

Demonstrates the potential of heterogeneous V2V communications.

Shows the algorithm approaches the estimated network capacity.

Validates the algorithm's ability to meet application requirements.

Abstract

Connected and automated vehicles will enable advanced traffic safety and efficiency applications thanks to the dynamic exchange of information between vehicles, and between vehicles and infrastructure nodes. Connected vehicles can utilize IEEE 802.11p for vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communications. However, a widespread deployment of connected vehicles and the introduction of connected automated driving applications will notably increase the bandwidth and scalability requirements of vehicular networks. This paper proposes to address these challenges through the adoption of heterogeneous V2V communications in multi-link and multi-RAT vehicular networks. In particular, the paper proposes the first distributed (and decentralized) context-aware heterogeneous V2V communications algorithm that is technology and application agnostic, and that allows each vehicle to autonomously and dynamically select its communications technology taking into account its application requirements and the communication context conditions. This study demonstrates the potential of heterogeneous V2V communications, and the capability of the proposed algorithm to satisfy the vehicles' application requirements while approaching the estimated upper bound network capacity.