An Online Energy Optimization Method for Urban Rail Flexible Traction Power Supply System Based on Spatiotemporal Matching of Train Power

In urban rail traction power supply systems, the regenerative energy generated during train braking holds significant potential for energy conservation. By integrating spatial-level analysis of power flow calculations from the electrical discipline with temporal-level optimization of train operation strategies from the transportation discipline, the utilization of regenerative energy can be further enhanced. Consequently, this article presents an online energy optimization method for flexible traction power supply system (FTPSS) based on spatiotemporal matching of train power. First, the energy distribution and the power matching foundation are analyzed. Subsequently, a train power matching method is devised to provide a basis for train’s decision-making at any given time and location. Furthermore, the decision-making progress for train power matching is outlined to achieve online decision-making aimed at minimizing system incoming consumption. Finally, several simulations are performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. In comparison to existing strategies, the online energy optimization method based on spatiotemporal matching of train power demonstrates a reduction in incoming consumption of 3.82% under variable load conditions, which holds value for practical applications.