Optimizing the energy efficiency of electric transportation systems operation using a genetic algorithm

Energy consumption of a rail transit system depends on many parameters. One of the most effective methods of reducing energy consumption in a rail transit system is optimizing the speed profile of the trains along the route. A genetic algorithm (GA) based approach is proposed to search for the optimal train speed trajectory, given a journey time constraint, and its effectiveness is shown by simulation results. The proposed approach includes realistic system modeling using an integrated electromechanical simulation model to calculate train energy consumption and travelling time under different operating conditions, inter-station distances, track profiles