An energy-efficient control scheme for communication-based train control (CBTC) systems with random packet drops

Communication-based train control (CBTC) systems use wireless local area networks (WLANs) to transmit train status and control commands. Random transmission delays and packet drops are inevitable in train-ground communication, which could result in unnecessary traction, brake or even emergency brake of trains, loss of line capacity and passenger satisfaction. In this paper, we study the random packet drops in CBTC systems, analyze their impact on the performances of CBTC systems, and propose a control scheme to improve CBTC performances. We model the system to control a group of trains as a networked control system with packet drops in transmissions. Extensive simulation results are presented. We show that our proposed scheme can provide less energy consumption, better riding comfortability and total cost reduction.