Path-loss prediction models for intervehicle communication at 60 GHz

Propagation path losses affecting intervehicle communication (IVC) at 60 GHz are presented. In order to examine the radio-propagation characteristics in the IVC system, in the first stage of our investigation, we have carried out propagation tests between two vehicles communicating in a line-of-sight (LOS) situation at fixed positions on a smooth surface paved with asphalt, which is the normal communication condition. Furthermore, the non-LOS (NLOS) situation with up to three intermediate vehicles, which can cause an obstruction, has been conducted. To construct path-loss models in NLOS cases, the uniform theory of diffraction technique was applied to the calculation of waves propagating through the intermediate vehicles. The propagation path models were derived from the measured results. In the second stage, a path-loss prediction formula was derived by statistically processing the data that had been calculated using the propagation path model. The propagation tests between the vehicles in motion confirm that the path-loss prediction formula is very useful when the communicating vehicles are moving, and it is therefore suitable for designing the cells that form the IVC.