Tram system performance verification by virtual profile with measurement-based simulation

Trains often have unique specifications and operating conditions. In this study, the electric drive system of a tram is discussed. The performance of the system was checked using a virtual profile that considered the power requirements of a tram based on the passenger density along its route and the influence of a city’s terrain. Different passenger density and topographic profiles were established and combined to estimate the maximum output power required during operation, which is then used for simulating the inverter power loss in the tram system. Switching losses values, E
on
and E
off
, of power semiconductors used in the simulation were measured in real-life conditions. These results were then used for thermal simulation to estimate the maximum junction temperature of the power semiconductor to verify the design margin.