Multimodal Alerting Interface with Networked Short-range Transmissions (MAIN-ST)

The connected vehicles (CV) program is a DOT initiative that uses dedicated short-range communications (DSRC) to enable safer and greener surface transportation. Ongoing efforts exist to bring motor vehicles and infrastructure onto CV networks, but bicycles have been largely overlooked. Consequently, a significant need exists to bring cyclists onto these networks so other connected entities can be aware of their presence, and cyclists can take advantage of the benefits available when receiving information from other connected entities. To address this challenge, Charles River Analytics executed a successful Phase I effort to design and demonstrate the feasibility of a Multimodal Alerting Interface with Networked Short-range Transmissions (MAIN-ST). Our Phase I MAIN-ST prototype brings cyclists onto CV networks using a hardware-agnostic approach, whereby a commercial DSRC radio and a tethered smartphone are used to source and transmit a basic safety message for bicycles. This CV connectivity enables a suite of MAIN-ST safe-cycling capabilities, including automated hazard assessment with multimodal alerting designed to communicate hazard information while promoting heads-up riding. Under Phase II, we propose to develop and evaluate a full-scope MAIN-ST system, through refinement of and human-use validation of current capabilities, and to pursue commercialization of MAIN-ST through strategic partnerships with industry.