Optical Wireless Communication (OWC) between smartphones with LED/Camera pair

The target is to explore the development and implementation of an Optical Camera Communication (OCC) system using smartphones. Using the LED flashlight as a transmitter and the smartphone camera as a receiver, it demonstrates a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for short-range data communication. The system has two distinct protocols—binary and Type-Length-Value (TLV)—to transmit messages encoded into light patterns, which are decoded through real-time image processing techniques.

The study achieved a maximum transmission speed of 3.33 bits per second over a reliable range of 15 cm, highlighting the potential of OCC for low-data-rate applications. However, challenges such as sensitivity to ambient light, limited communication range, and the inherent constraints of smartphone hardware were identified.

Despite its limitations, OCC presents a promising alternative to traditional wireless communication, particularly in scenarios requiring secure, low-power, and proximity-based data exchange. Potential applications include IoT systems, indoor positioning, and smart environments. Future improvements, such as integrating high-intensity LEDs, optical lenses, and advanced signal processing techniques, could significantly enhance the system's capabilities and broaden its range of applications. This work underscores the viability of using everyday consumer devices for innovative communication solutions and lays the foundation for further advancements in OCC technology.