Study on optimal train movement for minimum energy consumption

Abstract: The presented thesis project is a study on train energy consumption calculation and optimal train driving strategies for minimum energy consumption. This study is divided into three parts; the first part is a proposed model for energy consumption calculation for trains based on driving resistances. The second part is a presentation of a method based on dynamic programming and the Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation (Bellman’s backward approach) for obtaining optimal speed and control profiles leading to minimum energy consumption. The third part is a case study for a Bombardier Transportation case. It includes the presentation of a preliminary algorithm developed within this thesis project; an algorithm based on the HJB equation that can be further improved in order to be used online in real-time as an advisory system for train drivers.