Delphi, IBM, Sun Microsystems and Netscape Showcase Mobile Media with 'Network Vehicle'
23 February 1998
Delphi, IBM, Sun Microsystems and Netscape Showcase Mobile Media with 'Network Vehicle'
TROY, Mich., Feb. 23 -- A technology initiative aimed at
offering more convenience, work productivity tools, safety and entertainment
to millions of commuters and travelers who spend valuable time in their
vehicles has been introduced by Delphi Automotive Systems, IBM(TM), Sun
Microsystems(TM) and Netscape(TM) .
The four companies have demonstrated how existing hardware and software
technology, including wireless communications, global positioning via
satellite, head-up displays, voice recognition, Java(TM) technology,
microprocessors, Web access and collaboration, and other Internet/intranet
features, can be integrated to create a "Network Vehicle."
The technologies were demonstrated on a concept vehicle in Detroit today
at the 1998 SAE International Congress and Exposition.
"A networked vehicle will have tremendous appeal to drivers and
passengers, offering a vast array of new features and functions," said Dave
Wohleen, general director of engineering for Delphi Delco Electronics Systems.
"Much of the technology to do this, including our head-up displays, steering
wheel-mounted controls, and man-machine interface in the passenger
compartment, exists today. Working with vehicle manufacturers, these
technologies could be integrated into all types of vehicles."
The concept vehicle receives direct broadcast reception from Hughes
DirecTV and DirecPC satellites by use of an innovative flat antenna embedded
in the roof of the vehicle. This provides the driver and passengers with
everything from route and travel information to movies and real-time stock
quotes.
Existing services that could be integrated in the future include theft
deterrent technologies and the ability to contact emergency services. In
addition, Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technologies can provide the
vehicle's exact location.
Additional future features include dictating and electronic distribution
of memos, setting work schedules, listening to and dictating a response to
faxes, and viewing videos.
These "smart" features are enabled in large measure because of the real-
time data-streaming capabilities over a wireless network made possible due to
IBM's Java-based technology. Java enables the rapid development and prototype
of applications that run within the vehicle. With Java technology, automakers
also have the flexibility to create a Network Vehicle using a variety of
hardware and operating system platforms.
"This is another example of IBM's e-business networking solutions, only
this time the networking capability will be in vehicles," said Pat Toole, vice
president, global embedded solutions, for IBM's Manufacturing Industries
Solution Unit.
"We want to offer people more conveniences and safety features, and the
capability to be more productive while in their vehicles," Toole said. "This
means the human-to-network interface for the driver must not interfere with
vehicle operation. IBM's voice technology is a key part in making that
happen."
The Network Vehicle has voice recognition technology for drivers and
passengers to verbally request and listen to e-mail messages, locate a
restaurant or hotel, receive navigation help or specific music and sports
scores, and use voice-activated telephone services -- all done without
interfering with driving.
Drivers can use a Delphi head-up display projected onto the windshield,
similar to that used by jet fighter pilots, to navigate while keeping their
eyes on the road. Passengers using individual terminals next to their seats
can interact with the Internet, watch high resolution television or play
computer games.
Jim Mitchell, vice president of technology and architecture at JavaSoft, a
business unit of Sun Microsystems, Inc., explained: "Java's smart card to
supercomputer scalability now extends to the automobile. Java is the perfect
foundation for providing an open, scalable platform to deploy cutting-edge
content and applications in vehicles. And Java's 'Write Once, Run Anywhere'
core value will bring an array of new possibilities to developers, auto
manufacturers and consumers worldwide."
"As Internet-based services add new dimensions to the daily lives and work
of millions of people, we see great value in extending network access beyond
the home, classroom or office by making it easily accessible from anywhere,"
said Netscape's vice president of technology, Mike McCue. "Our participation
in this technology initiative underscores our vision of a network world where
our products run across computing platforms and the new portable devices that
serve a mobile life style. Access will be from anywhere, including vehicles."
Delphi Automotive Systems with headquarters in Troy, Mich., USA, is the
world's most diversified supplier of automotive components and systems. With
the recent integration of Delphi Delco Electronics Systems, Delphi operates
208 manufacturing facilities, 46 ventures and 27 technical centers in 36
countries. Regional headquarters are located in Paris, Tokyo and Sao Paulo.
Delphi can be found on the Internet at http://www.delphiauto.com.
"NEXT CENTURY WINNER" FACT SHEET
MOBILE MEDIA -- NETWORK VEHICLE
NEWS
Delphi (with IBM(TM), Sun Microsystems(TM) and Netscape(TM)) showcases an
advanced concept vehicle that demonstrates a new wireless computer
connectivity to mobile applications.
OPERATION
Network Architecture/Optical Fiber Mobile Media Link (MML)
* Low cost, ultra-high speed, fiber-optic serial data link that merges
complex in-vehicle electronics into a seamless digital system network
architecture.
* Multiple audio, video and control data can be transported across the
fiber-optic bus.
Direct Broadcast Satellite Reception
* A flat satellite antenna embedded under the Network Vehicle's roof
panel provides a direct link to the Internet through DirectPC(TM) for
conventional Web applications.
* Also allows high-speed download of audio, video and text data,
transferring information at 400 kbps, more than 15 times the speed of a
standard 28.8k modem.
Voice Recognition and Speech Synthesis
* Designed so drivers can verbally request and listen to e-mail messages,
locate a restaurant or hotel, ask for navigation help, and obtain
specific music or sports scores.
Java(TM) Application Program Interface
* The Network Vehicle leverages the capabilities of Java technology and
standard Web browsers, special "smart" interfaces for the vehicles.
* These interfaces can be accessed via in-vehicle command consoles or
remotely through the Web, allowing users to access and setup personal
profiles for in-vehicle media such as movies, audio books and radio
pre-sets.
* E-mail, voice-mail, paging and scheduling also can be configured and
accessed.
Color Reconfigurable Head-Up and Cluster Displays
* The head-up display projects vehicle information on the windshield so
that drivers can view speed, engine status, navigation information and
much more without taking their eyes off the road.
Reconfigurable Center Console and Passenger Displays
* The touch screen serves as a user interface to control nearly all of
the functions on the Network Vehicle, such as the audio system, climate
control and cellular phone.
* Provides vehicle status information and mobile office functions.
* Able to show multiple displays, including entertainment, navigation,
office, and website and information.
* Passenger displays provide additional features including DirecTV and
videos from DVD players, games and Internet.
BENEFITS
* Drivers can access office desktop information from the vehicle.
* Additional entertainment features for passengers.
* Common standards for the automotive industry.
* Readily available tools that allow vehicle manufacturers to rapidly
implement advanced in-vehicle computer systems.
SOURCE Delphi Automotive Systems
