Feudalistic Platooning: Subdivide Platoons, Unite Networks, and Conquer Efficiency and Reliability.

Area of Science:

• Intelligent Transportation Systems
• Wireless Communication Networks
• Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Communication

Background:

• Cooperative intelligent transportation systems (C-ITSs) like platooning require reliable networks, which are often unavailable.
• Existing hybrid networks have limitations in interference avoidance, load balancing, and data dissemination.
• Poor network quality can create safety issues, necessitating increased vehicle spacing and reducing efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel platooning concept addressing varying network quality and the coexistence of automated and non-automated vehicles.
• To enhance the robustness and efficiency of C-ITSs platooning through a hybrid communication strategy.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of 'feudalistic platooning,' integrating ad hoc (IEEE 802.11p) and cellular communication.
• Division of platoons into smaller, cohesive groups with assigned communication roles.
• Redundant transmission of critical data via ad hoc networks and other data via cellular networks.

Main Results:

• The proposed feudalistic platooning concept effectively manages communication flow under diverse network conditions.
• Simulation results using Omnet++ and SUMO demonstrate the viability of the approach.
• The system ensures critical data redundancy and optimizes data transmission based on network availability.

Conclusions:

• Feudalistic platooning offers a robust solution for C-ITSs platooning challenges, improving safety and efficiency.
• The hybrid communication strategy enhances system reliability and adaptability.
• This approach facilitates the integration of automated platoons with conventional traffic.