CLASS - A cross layer algorithm for smoothed switchover in multi-homed body sensor networks

The introduction of remote sensor technologies has improved the standard of living for cardiovascular patients who require continuous monitoring of vital signs. In this paper, an infrastructure mode based approach is proposed in which the sensor itself communicates directly with a wireless access network. In infrastructure mode it is critical that the sensor seamlessly migrates between host access points. Our investigation therefore focuses on optimizing the switchover performance of the body sensor using a Cross Layer Algorithm for Smoothed Switchover (CLASS) which defines a Quality of Service (QoS) switchover trigger. We propose that the CLASS algorithm should be utilized within the newly standardized Media Independent Handover (MIH) framework. Results presented illustrate that our approach has a significant performance improvement over the currently suggested approach for the mobility technology Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP).