Date: 02/12/2010

OKI's inter-vehicle communications device link vehicles and pedestrians

OKI Electric Industry has developed the ultra-compact inter-vehicle communications device (Simple and Compact IVC Unit) which enables direct communication between vehicles and pedestrians. This is in support to new system developed by Japan for ensuring pedestrian safety.

The miniature device packs components such as antennas used for inter-vehicle communications, LEDs/buzzer user interfaces, a GPS module and accelerometer making the unit smaller compared previous similar devices. The miniaturization enables this device to be packed in the upper area of instrumental panels and windshields.

"We are pleased to announce further enhancements in the hardware for the Safety Mobile Phone Attachment for the Simple and Compact IVC unit designed for automotive use," said Yoshiyuki Gondou, General Manager of Intelligent Transport Systems and Safety Systems Division at OKI. "The unit measures 50mm x 57 mm x 26 mm, approximately one-eleventh the size of the conventional 5.8Ghz bandwidth inter-vehicle communication devices previously developed by OKI."

"In addition, the device incorporates, as integral components, parts previously connected externally by cables, such as antennas for inter-vehicle communications, LEDs/buzzer that display the status of various services, a GPS receiver and antenna, accelerometer, and a gyro sensor, eliminating the need for externally connected devices and simplifying vehicle mounting. We expect the unit to be attached in upper area of the instrumental panels and windshields."

By using this product, a driver will notify nearby vehicles of his or her location from the embedded GPS and obtain their location through the inter-vehicle communication function. In addition, the product standalone can alert the users beforehand when the positioning of the person and vehicle may lead to a traffic accident.