PROTEKT - Platform for risk minimization with open technologies to increase traffic safety through connectivity in the transport sector
Problem definition
Sustainability and road safety are key challenges in today's urban mobility systems. The precise detection and localization of all road users, especially vulnerable pedestrians and cyclists (Vulnerable Road Users - VRUs), is crucial for the development of safe and modern traffic solutions. Public transport and cycling play a central role in the mobility transition, as they contribute significantly to sustainable mobility.
Current V2X (Vehicle-to-everything) technologies such as IEEE802.11p (WLANp) and C-V2X for communication between road users offer basic solutions, but have limitations when it comes to integrating VRUs and public transport, meaning that the participation of these significant groups in traffic is restricted or non-existent.
Objective
The project goal is to push these boundaries by combining novel technologies, also with a view to future mobile communications generations such as 6G, which can enable the detection and communication of existing V2X infrastructure (equipped cars and traffic lights) with VRUs and public transport.
The project aims to improve traffic safety and efficiency through a networked infrastructure that records all road users in real time and allows them to communicate with each other, so that critical traffic situations can be identified in advance and proactively avoided.
Implementation
Planned results include the development of a seamless communication system/ecosystem between vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists (VRUs), and public transport. This will be achieved by integrating existing V2X technologies and novel communication methods such as BLE Auracast and 5G DECT NR+. One expected result is a significant reduction in traffic accidents through early warnings and precise detection of VRUs. Long-term effects include the creation of a safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly urban mobility system. The comprehensive use of the collected data enables the development of dynamic traffic control strategies and the improvement of future mobility solutions.
As part of this project, a field trial in the real-world laboratory of the city of Dresden will validate the research goals in terms of practical applicability and summarize recommendations for action for decision-makers regarding measures for standardization, scaling, and transferability to other regions.
Project partners
Chair of Transport Systems Information Technology (ITVS)
Chair of Traffic Process Automation (VPA)
Chair of Traffic and Transportation Psychology (VPSY)
Project duration
From 01.09.2025 to 31.12.2027.
Contact
Dr.-Ing. Sven Grunwald
Dipl.-Ing. Kevin Krebs
Funding agency and funding program
EFRE/JTF - Forschung InfraProNet 2021-2027
Promotion of application-oriented research projects and networks, as well as expansion and improvement of research infrastructures at universities and non-university public scientific institutions