Improved reliability: Predictive network switching reducing video interruptions for safer automated driving.
　Accurate predictions: Dual algorithms improving communication quality prediction for stable connections.
　Flexible networking: Multipath control allowing continuous monitoring through seamless network switching.

Driverless automated vehicles on public roads rely heavily on remote video monitoring to ensure safe and efficient operation. However, maintaining a continuous and reliable video feed is difficult, due to the fluctuating nature of wireless communication environments.

Interruptions in the video feed can often occur, caused by changes in network conditions, which then affects the effectiveness and safety of automated driving systems. Advanced transportation technologies like driverless automated vehicles need a stable and uninterrupted connection, to enable real-time monitoring and control.

NTT is responding to these challenges by developing a robust wireless communications system designed for remote monitoring systems. The system improves network reliability by optimally switching and using multiple networks based on predicted future communication quality, using location information. The system can anticipate where network issues might occur and switch to a better connection in advance. It's not quite ready for the public yet, but field tests have shown that the technology reduces video interruptions more effectively than conventional methods.

Previously, remote monitoring was a requirement for automated driving on public roads, but videos were often interrupted in areas where communication quality deteriorated. Now, optimal control of multiple networks based on quality prediction greatly reduces video interruptions. NTT's approach includes route prediction, which forecasts the vehicle's path; Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), which is like GPS for precise location tracking; telemetry, which is the automated communication of data from remote sources; and multipath control, which involves using multiple network paths to ensure a steady connection.

NTT has developed a highly accurate communication quality prediction system using two complementary algorithms, location data, and quality history. Multi-path communication allows flexible switching across networks, while cooperative control combines proactive and reactive switching to anticipate and address network issues, ensuring a stable connection.

Stable remote monitoring, leading to safe and secure automated driving services.

NTT—Innovating the Future

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Daniel O'Connor

Daniel O'Connor joined the NTT Group in 1999 when he began work as the Public Relations Manager of NTT Europe. While in London, he liaised with the local press, created the company's intranet site, wrote technical copy for industry magazines and managed exhibition stands from initial design to finished displays.

Later seconded to the headquarters of NTT Communications in Tokyo, he contributed to the company's first-ever winning of global telecoms awards and the digitalisation of internal company information exchange.

Since 2015 Daniel has created content for the Group's Global Leadership Institute, the One NTT Network and is currently working with NTT R&D teams to grow public understanding of the cutting-edge research undertaken by the NTT Group.