Earlier this week, OmniAir sat down with Frank Perry, Assistant Vice President, Senior Technical Principal of Connected and Automated Vehicles at WSP, and Chair of OmniAir’s Certification Working Group. Frank has volunteered to lead an effort to develop an OmniAir C-V2X Module Level Certification Program. The program’s goal is twofold, to focus testing on core communications required for exchanging data between V2X devices as well as to help drive down the overall cost of certification.
Q: What is a Module?
Frank: In this case, for the new OmniAir program, a module is a chipset, firmware, and software required to provide core (radio) V2X communications. A typical V2X module supports the PHY (R14/802.11p) layer through Network (1609.3) layer. Security (1609.2) may also be part of a V2X module.
Q: How does OmniAir’s Module Level Certification Program differ from OmniAir’s existing OBU and RSU Certification Programs?
Frank: While (radio) V2X communications are the primary focus of OmniAir Certification, existing programs focus on the entire device, including hardware, (V2X) security, positioning, and other functionality.
Separating core communications from overall device functionality enables device manufacturers to purchase the communication functionality, confident that it meets OmniAir testing requirements, and focus their development on other aspects of a device.
Q: What are the benefits of utilizing an OmniAir certified V2X module?
Frank: With the module handling the core V2X communication functions, device manufactures can focus on developing V2X hardware, security, positioning, applications, etc., reducing development resources. Incorporating a certified V2X module can reduce overall risk and lower the cost of bringing a device to market.
Q: I understand you have worked for an automotive OEM, a tier-one supplier, and now a systems integrator. How does your experience guide the development of the new certification program for modules?
Frank: I am taking my cues from the device manufacture standpoint. The goal is to develop a robust program that can be implemented in a reasonable timeframe and within a reasonable budget.
Q: What stage of development is the new certification program, and is it too late to join?
Frank: We are in the very early stages and have developed a rough outline. At our next meeting, we will flesh out the bullet points to set the direction. The second answer is easy, no it is not too late to join. We encourage additional module providers to join OmniAir and help shape the program.
Q: How will this certification program impact the future development of V2X devices?
Frank: If done correctly, it would open up the industry to further innovation. Currently, most V2X device makers are developing software and modules for their specific device. When there are certified modules on the market, it will reduce development time and encourage others that might not have the resources to develop new applications and V2X devices.
Q: What is the best way to get involved in the Working Group?
Frank: First, your organization must be an OmniAir member. OmniAir working groups are open to all OmniAir member employees.
If you are already an employee of an OmniAir member company, there is a simple form to fill out online. The next step is to roll up your sleeves and work collaboratively to develop and determine the requirements for this and other national and international focused certification programs.
The Certification Working Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 11:00 am Eastern. We look forward to seeing you there!
