Coloured video code for in-flight data transmission

Abstract

We present a new approach for optical data transmission between the in-flight entertainment (IFE) system of aeroplanes and mobile devices. As wireless in-flight applications are subject to strict frequency and electromagnetic compatibility regulations, we propose to transfer the data optically. We display video streams of 2-dimensional blackand- white or coloured visual codes on the IFE screen. To allow robust reconstruction of the transmitted data, we present a new visual code which is captured and processed by mobile devices of passengers. In order to efficiently compensate for frame losses, the visual codes are coupled with a temporal forward error correction (FEC) scheme. The system is evaluated in an Airbus A330 cabin mock-up under realistic conditions employing representative mobile devices like low-cost and high-end smartphones. Performance evaluations show that the developed transmission system achieves data rates of up to 120 kbit/s per individual passenger seat. © 2013 Springer-Verlag.