Verification of Optimized Energy-Saving Train Scheduling Utilizing Automatic Train Operation System

Abstract

We have been focusing on automatic train operation (ATO) as a suitable method to evaluate energy-saving operation effects and to improve speed profiles and scheduling. Our previous studies showed some methods of energy-saving operation using ATO. For example, one is to generate “hidden time”, for energy-saving control. Another is to use such a “hidden time” effectively and to apply energy-saving control such as coasting operation. This paper shows an additional method for energy saving by optimizing running time scheduling. ATO controls a train with accuracy such that the optimized schedule can be implemented to minimize the energy consumption. The speed profiles based on this scheduling were installed on the ATO system, and experiments were carried out on track. The results show that the proposed train control and optimized scheduling can save energy by 17% compared with conventional operation processes. The relationships between energy consumption and running time are explained in detail in this paper.