Application of tabu search in optimal system design and operation of MRT power supply systems

The optimisation of mass rapid transit (MRT) systems is often a slow proces s as it requires a large number of simulations of train operations. In orde r to reduce the solution effort, tabu search is applied. Tabu search is a m odern heuristic optimisation method that can achieve an optimal or sub-opti mal solution within a reasonably short time. The paper demonstrates how the search is applied over a period of time to successfully optimise the tract ion substation location and rectifier firing angle. Integrated with a train simulator, the approach is tested with two objective criteria: minimum tra ction energy consumption and equal load sharing.