Using 5.9 GHz DSRC to Aid the Elderly in Vehicular Environments

This thesis investigated the feasibility of using the Dedicated Short Range Communication (5.9 GHz) protocol as a vehicular wireless system for transmitting elderly drivers' vital signs in medical emergencies. Existing vehicular communication systems, physiological monitors, and low-power wireless protocols were researched. An integrated in-car system that combined DSRC and physiological monitoring was developed. The DSRC system was tested for latency, packet loss, and range. The physiological monitor was tested for accuracy of its sensors. Finally, the integrated system was tested for its success rate in a vehicular environment. The DSRC system communicated between moving vehicles with an average latency of 1.450 ± 0.415 ms, and it transmitted from a vehicle to roadside infrastructure at a maximum range of 460 m. The physiological monitor collected accurate heart rate, SpO 2, and body temperature measurements. Finally, the integrated system transmitted physiological parameters from one moving vehicle to another with a 95% success rate.