INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue II, February 2025
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IR Communication-Based Alternative Horn Signaling System for
Vehicles to Reduce Sound Pollution
MR MD Mustakim Rahman
1
, SK MD Shadman Sakib
2
, Mahdi Hasan
3
1,3
Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology, Bangladesh
2
Jahangirnagar University
DOI : https://doi.org/10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2025.14020013
Received: 15 February 2025; Accepted: 22 February 2025; Published: 10 March 2025
Abstract— Noise pollution has become a significant environmental issue, with the frequent use of vehicle horns being a major
factor. This study presents a creative approach titled “IR Communication-Based Alternative Horn Signaling System for Vehicles
to Reduce Sound Pollution,” which aims to reduce horn usage in road traffic, particularly on highways, by implementing infrared
(IR) communication technology. The objective of this project is to identify effective alternatives that allow vehicles to
communicate without relying on horn usage, thereby decreasing overall sound pollution. Specifically, the proposed system is
intended to enhance communication between vehicles on highways and where traditional horn signaling is inappropriate, such as
near schools and hospitals. In urban areas, drivers typically use horns within 10 to 30 meters, with a range of 30 to 50 meters in
other situations. This system achieves 100% accuracy within 20 meters and at least 92% accuracy up to 50 meters. The system
uses two ATtiny85 microcontrollers: Microcontroller-1 for transmission and Microcontroller-2 for reception. Microcontroller-1
connects to a push button and three IR LEDs, while Microcontroller-2 connects to an IR receiver (TSOP-1838 sensor) and a
combination of LED and buzzer. By allowing vehicles to communicate without audible horns, this project seeks to reduce noise
pollution, especially in low-traffic areas significantly. The findings indicate that this IR communication system could effectively
enhance vehicle communication while also contributing to lower noise pollution levels.
Keywords — Noise Pollution, Vehicle Horn Usage, Infrared Communication, Sound Pollution Reduction, Environmental
Impact, Highway Safety, Silent Communication, Urban Noise Management, Innovative Technology.
I.
Introduction
Noise pollution has spread globally, with a global acceleration in the second half of the 20th century [1]. It has increasingly
become a pressing environmental issue, with the incessant use of vehicle horns recognized as a major contributor to urban
soundscapes [2]. The detrimental effects of noise on public health and well-being are well-documented, leading to a growing
demand for effective mitigation strategies [3]. In urban settings, particularly near sensitive areas such as schools and hospitals, the
frequent and often unnecessary honking of horns can create significant disturbances, affecting both residents and pedestrians [4].
A study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicated that road traffic noise is a major contributor to overall
urban noise, often accounting for up to 80% in densely populated areas [5].
To address this challenge, this study presents an innovative approach titled “IR Communication-Based Alternative Horn
Signaling System for Vehicles to Reduce Sound Pollution”. This project explores the implementation of infrared (IR)
communication technology as a promising alternative to traditional horn signaling in road traffic, particularly on highways. By
facilitating non-audible communication between vehicles, the proposed system aims to maintain effective traffic signaling while
significantly reducing overall noise pollution [6].
The objective of this project is to explore effective alternatives for signaling vehicles without resorting to horn usage. The IR
communication system is specifically designed for scenarios where traditional horn use is deemed inappropriate, thereby
enhancing safety and reducing noise levels in urban environments. The results suggest that implementing this IR communication
system could effectively enhance vehicle communication and help to create a quieter, more sustainable urban environment. [7].
Noise pollution from vehicular traffic, particularly through the use of horns, has significant adverse effects on urban environments
and public health. This literature review explores existing research on vehicle communication technologies, the implications of
noise pollution, and alternative signaling systems designed to minimize horn usage.
Noise pollution has been linked to various health issues, including stress, sleep disturbances, and cardiovascular problems [23].
Excessive noise, particularly from traffic sources, poses a considerable health risk, particularly in areas near schools and hospitals
[8]. This highlights the necessity for strategies aimed at reducing noise levels in urban areas. Recent advancements in Vehicle-to-
Vehicle (V2V) communication technologies offer promising solutions for reducing reliance on horn usage. V2V systems enhance
road safety by facilitating real-time information sharing among vehicles [9]. This capability allows for safer driving maneuvers
without the need for audible signals, thereby decreasing overall noise levels in urban settings.
The application of infrared (IR) communication technology in traffic management presents an innovative approach to reducing
noise pollution. The use of IR communication for non-audible vehicle signaling highlights its effectiveness in transmitting
messages without contributing to sound pollution [10]. Their study indicates that IR systems can significantly improve vehicle
communication in sensitive environments. Kjaergaard et al. (2014) explored various non-audible signaling approaches, such as
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue II, February 2025
www.ijltemas.in
Page 112
visual displays and tactile feedback systems. Their findings suggest that these alternatives not only mitigate noise pollution but
also enhance driver awareness and safety in congested traffic conditions [11].
The current solutions have several limitations. Firstly, some systems do not perform flawlessly in practical applications.
Secondly, certain solutions lack the necessary accuracy and precision. Lastly, some systems experience performance degradation
due to heat buildup from using resistors in the circuit.
Implementing alternative horn signaling systems has broader societal implications. By reducing noise pollution, these
technologies can improve the quality of life in urban areas and protect vulnerable populations from the health effects associated
with excessive noise. Continued research and development in this field are essential for integrating these systems into existing
transportation infrastructures [12].
II.
Methodology
The Proposed System
The proposed system consists of two ATtiny85 microcontrollers, designated Microcontroller-1 and Microcontroller-2.
Microcontroller-1 is responsible for the transmission functionality, while Microcontroller-2 handles the reception aspect. The
configuration includes a push button and an infrared (IR) light-emitting diode (LED) connected to Microcontroller-1. In contrast,
Microcontroller-2 interfaces with an IR receiver (specifically the TSOP-1838 IR sensor) and a combination of an LED and
buzzer.
Fig. 1. Block diagram of the proposed system
Fig. 2. Circuit diagram of the proposed system
This device will be installed in any vehicle in such a way that, the push button and (LED + Buzzer) set will be near the steering,
the three IR LEDs will be positioned at the front of the vehicle, arranged at 60-degree angles relative to one another, while the IR
receiver will be located at the rear of the vehicle.
On highways and where traditional horn signaling is inappropriate, such as near schools and hospitals, if we want to give the
signal to the vehicles in the front, we have to push the switch near the steering. Then the microcontroller-1 will send a 100 kHz IR
signal through the three IR LEDs. When the IR receiver of the vehicle in the front receives the IR signal, the (LED + Buzzer) set
will be turned on for 2 seconds. The main reason for the three IR LEDs is to cover a 120-degree field of view. When a vehicle is
already overtaking a vehicle and there is another one in front of it, because of the 120° coverage, it is possible to easily send the
signal to the vehicle in front shown in (Fig. 3, Scenario-2). This mechanism effectively communicates a signal to the driver,
thereby enhancing road safety in sensitive environments.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
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ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue II, February 2025
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Fig. 3. Real-life working scenario of the system
SELECTING THE OPTIMAL MODULATION FREQUENCY FOR THE PROPOSED SYSTEM
In the practical situation, drivers use horns within a distance of about 10 to 30 meters in urban areas, on the other hand, the
distance may be slightly longer, around 30 to 50 meters [14]. So, if we consider 30-50 meters, then 38khz modulation frequency
is optimal [15]. Some key points of using 38khz modulation frequency are given below,
1)
Free-Space Path Loss: The path loss (in dB) for a signal traveling a distance “d” can be calculated using the formula:
Table I. Performance Test
SL. No.
Distance
(meter)
No. of Times IR Signal
Sent from Transmitter
No. of Times IR Signal
Received to Receiver
01
10
50 Times
50 Times
02
20
50 Times
50 Times
03
30
50 Times
49 Times
04
35
50 Times
48 Times
05
40
50 Times
48 Times
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
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06
45
50 Times
47 Times
94%
07
50
50 Times
46 Times
92%
The Free-Space Path Loss for a distance of 30 meters at a frequency of 38 kHz is approximately -57.46 dB.
The Free-Space Path Loss for a distance of 50 meters at a frequency of 38 kHz is approximately -21.00 dB.
A free-space Path Loss (FSPL) of approximately 21 dB over a distance of 50 meters is generally considered manageable for
infrared (IR) communication.
So, for a distance of 30 to 50 meters the Free-Space Path Loss
is manageable with a 38Khz modulation frequency.
2)
Reduced Interference: Effectively minimizes disruption from surrounding light sources, which improves signal reliability
over longer distances.
3)
Device Compatibility: Commonly utilized in consumer electronics, ensuring smooth connectivity between remote controls
and their corresponding receivers.
4)
Enhanced Receiver Performance: Many IR receivers, like the 1838 model, are specifically designed for 38 kHz, which
boosts their effectiveness at greater distances.
5)
Optimized Power Consumption: This enables IR LEDs to transmit signals efficiently without drawing excessive power.
6)
Well-Rounded Performance: Offers a favorable mix of transmission speed and data capacity, making it ideal for a variety of
applications.
III.
Result & Discussion
Fig. 4. (a) The full setup of the project, (b) Working scenario of the project
The project is working flawlessly. It is tested many times and there is no performance drop issue. When it receives an IR signal
through the IR receiver sensor, it turns ON the LED and Buzzer for 2 Seconds shown in Fig.4 (b).
The device is tested several times from different distances to calculate its performance accuracy, as shown in (Table 1).
Fig. 5. The no. of times IR signal sent from transmitter vs the no. of times IR signal received to receiver chart
SIGNAL RESPO NCE WITH
DISTANCE
No. of times IR Signal Sent
No. of times IR Signal Received
50
50
50
50
50
49
50
48
50
48
50
47
50
46
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
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Fig. 6. The distance vs accuracy chart
From the above data, it is clear that the project demonstrates excellent accuracy, achieving 100% accuracy within 20 meters and
maintaining at least 92% accuracy up to 50 meters.
Table II. Comparison between the existing proposed system and my proposed system
Focus Point
Reference
IR signal transmitter
IR signal receiver
Performance drop
IC HT12A has been used as the IR
signal transmitter in the existing
proposed system. However, the
HT12A has limited capabilities, and
its built-in functions may not be
optimized for longer distances or
higher accuracy.
IC CD4017B has been used
with a TSOP1838 IR
receiver sensor for detecting
IR signals
Many resistors have
been used in the
existing proposed
system that can heat up
over time and affect the
system's performance
[16]
The ATtiny 85 microcontroller has
been used in my proposed system
for this task. It is way better than IC
HT12A. We can program the
ATtiny85 to implement more
sophisticated modulation schemes
and error correction, improving
reliability over longer distances. We
can also adjust the transmission
parameters based on environmental
conditions, potentially improving
performance in different scenarios.
In contrast, Attiny 85
microcontroller with
TSOP1838 IR receiver
sensor has been used in my
proposed system for
detecting IR signals, Using
Attiny 85 microcontroller to
detect IR signals through
TSOP1838 IR sensor is far
better than using IC
CD4017B. Attiny 85 is more
accurate and sensitive in
every aspect, which is
crucial for the application.
On the other hand, my
proposed system does
not include any
resistors, leading to
fewer heating issues
and a lower risk of
performance
degradation.
My proposed
system
So, from the above comparison it is clear that my proposed system is way better than existing one [16].
IV.
Conclusion
This study introduces an innovative solution to address the growing concern of noise pollution in urban environments through the
use of infrared communication technology. By enabling vehicles to communicate silently, the system significantly reduces the
need for honking, especially in sensitive locations such as schools and hospitals. The implementation of this system not only
contributes to a quieter, more pleasant driving experience but also enhances road safety by minimizing auditory distractions and
improving overall traffic management.
Looking ahead, there are several promising avenues for future development. One key enhancement would be the integration of an
automated high beam-low beam controlling system, which could intelligently adjust a vehicle’s headlights based on the presence
of incoming traffic. This would further improve visibility and safety while reducing glare for other drivers. Additionally,
expanding the communication range and enhancing the system's performance under diverse environmental conditions would
make it even more reliable across different scenarios. Furthermore, creating a user-friendly interface to allow customization and
integration with existing vehicle safety features would help optimize its effectiveness.
85%
92%
94%
96% 96%
98%
100% 100%
105%
100%
95%
90%
Distance VS Accuracy
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In conclusion, this project highlights the potential of modern technology to not only address environmental challenges such as
noise pollution but also to enhance road safety and the overall driving experience. As cities continue to grapple with the adverse
effects of urban noise, this innovative approach could serve as a crucial step toward creating quieter, safer, and more sustainable
communities.
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