Field test of train trajectory optimisation on a metro line

Train trajectory optimisation plays a key role in improving energy saving performance and it is currently receiving increasing attention in railway research because of rising energy prices and environmental concerns. There have been many studies looking for optimal train trajectories with various different approaches. However, very few of the results have been evaluated and tested in practice. This study presents a field test of an optimal train trajectory on a metro line to evaluate the performance and the practicability of the trajectory with respect to operational energy computation. A train trajectory optimisation algorithm has been developed specifically for this purpose, and a field test of the obtained trajectory has been carried out on a metro line. In the field test, the driver controls the train in accordance with the information given by a driving advisory system, which contains the results of the train trajectory optimisation. The field test results show that, by implementing the optimal train trajectory, the actual energy consumption of the train can be significantly reduced, thereby improving the operational performance. Moreover, the field test results are very similar to the simulation results, proving that the developed train kinematics model is effective and accurate.