Virtual City Portal - A Multi-Network Information System for Automobile Users

This paper describes the Virtual City Portal prototype that is developed within the SOFTNET project. The system allows automobile users to request information or communication services using different wireless access systems. We integrate, broadcast networks like DVB-T for area-wide broadband delivery of general information, Wireless LAN for hot spot access and ad-hoc communication between vehicles, cellular systems for personal requests and Bluetooth for the interaction of mobile in-car devices. Channel selection is based on availability, network characteristics, application requirements and user preferences. Delivered content is automatically adapted to the user device according to a user profile.     «

This paper describes the Virtual City Portal prototype that is developed within the SOFTNET project. The system allows automobile users to request information or communication services using different wireless access systems. We integrate, broadcast networks like DVB-T for area-wide broadband delivery of general information, Wireless LAN for hot spot access and ad-hoc communication between vehicles, cellular systems for personal requests and Bluetooth for the interaction of mobile in-car devices...     »