Integration of 4G LTE and DSRC (IEEE 802.11p) for Enhancing Vehicular Network Performance in IoV Using Optimal Cluster-Based Data Forwarding (OCDF) Protocol

Abstract

IoV is a known platform for exchanging data between vehicles and distinct networks through diverse communication media. Embedded technologies like IoT and Intelligent Transportation, are aimed to build smart networks for IoV to support diverse automated applications such as smart vehicle control, intelligent traffic control, and dynamic data services. However, in the smart domain, the implementation of IoV has unresolved challenges. The synchronization of vehicles and humans is a crucial issue in making decisions. Therefore, a proper understanding of the pertinent issues about IoV implementation that can improve the VNs performance is essential. DSRC and cellular networks are considered as potential alternatives for endorsing V2X communications. DSRC is employed for intelligent and automotive transportation applications through short-range data exchange between DSRC-components. Although spectrum assigned to DSRC alone will not be appropriate to satisfy huge information traffic needs for internet access in vehicles. Cellular networks offer potential solutions, attributing an extensive range of cell coverage, broadly deployed infrastructure, and greater capacity. Nevertheless, the centralized characteristics of these networks limit the ability to handle low-latency communications that can challenge the efficacy of several safety applications. This paper reviews potential DSRC and wireless integrated solutions for efficient vehicular communications. In methodology, first, we reviewed existing technologies that integrate DSRC with other wireless technologies, and secondly, the study is carried out to highlight the limitations for each supporting vehicular communications. Thereby, the paper embeds a brief comparative analysis. Finally, an algorithm is proposed to integrate DSRC and 4G-LTE with a novel Optimal Cluster-