Japanese communications specialist OKI announced today it has developed what is for now the industry's smallest class of ultra-compact inter-vehicle communications device, or Simple and Compact IVC Unit.
According to OKI, the fact that components up until now used externally, like antennas, LEDs/buzzer, GPS module and accelerometer have been integrated into the unit itself allowed for a reduction in size of about 11 times.
The smaller size of the IVC unit will allow its installation in more user-friendly areas in a car like the upper part of the instrument panel or on the windshield.
"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, OKI Intelligent Transport Systems and Safety Systems Division general manager said.
"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."
IVCs can be used by drivers in a number of ways. First of all, it can be used to notify the vehicle's position to other cars, as well as learning where are vehicles are located. In the same way, the position of a pedestrian can be detected, leading to the decrease of accident risks.
The system has not yet been launched, as it is under review by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.
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