An Optimal Handoff Decision Algorithm for Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) Systems

As an advanced train control system, communication-based train control (CBTC) system can improve the utilization of railway network infrastructure and enhance the level of safety and service offered to customers. In this paper, we propose a seamless handoff scheme for CBTC systems based on Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP) and IEEE 802.11p. The focus of our work is in the handoff decision phase, with the objectives of maximizing the SCTP throughput and minimizing the handoff latency. The handoff decision is modeled as a semi-Markov Decision Process (SMDP). Simulation results show that the proposed SMDP based handoff decision algorithm can significantly improve the SCTP throughput and decrease handoff delay.