Handover Enhancement in Wireless Communication-Based Train Control Systems

Abstract

The paper introduces handover system by use of two radio connections fitted in the train operating on different channels as well as use of the train's location and directional information to aid in reducing ping pong during handover. The paper formulates the Global Systems for Mobiles Railway (GSM-R) algorithm to help make decisions on when to handover with the objective of minimizing the handoff latency. These measures allow seamless connection to the network while moving along the railway boundaries which improves communication. This reduces outage duration. Simulation of the system is done using MATLAB. The algorithm used is disruption free and quite effective in high speed train travel, and the handoff decision is very efficient and more exact. This will therefore significantly improve service availability and reduce latency in data communication.