A complete open/close cycle refers to the adaptation of a grade crossing control system to avoid partial opening when two or more trains consecutively travel through a crossing. The trains can be traversing the crossing in either the same direction or in opposite directions [1]. A complete open/close cycle can improve safety at a crossing by eliminating the potential confusion of a crossing gate partially opening but then immediately closing again [1].

Complete open/close cycles are often used at grade crossings near stations. The measure may be desired at crossings at far-side stations, where a train passes through a grade crossing before stopping at a nearby station. If a second train approaches on the opposite track at a far-side station, the gate should remain fully closed until both trains have fully departed the crossing. At near-side stations, where a train passes through a station before the grade crossing, it can be preferable to have the gate remain fully closed while the train is in the station if the station is very close to the grade crossing [2].