Size, Efficiency, and Reliability Analysis of a Multiport Traction Inverter with Downsized DC-DC Converter for a Catenary/Battery Tram
Abstract
The use of a NPC-type multilevel converter as multiport inverter (MPI)
has recently been considered a promising solution for the compact
integration of multisource systems in various applications. This paper
presents a broad analysis of a quasisingle stage propulsion system (QSS)
that employs an NPC-type MPI and a downsized boost dc-dc converter for
an urban tram vehicle with overhead line connection and onboard
batteries. The control and dynamic performance are detailed and
validated experimentally. Furthermore, the power losses, VA rating,
weight, volume, and reliability of the QSS system are evaluated and
benchmarked against a conventional architecture for a case-study
catenary/battery tram model. The analysis reveals that the QSS system
can achieve significant savings in volume, weight, and round-trip energy
efficiency, higher reliability due to intrinsic redundancy, but with
increased VA rating, part count, and complexity.
This paper has been accepted for publication in the IEEE Transactions for Transportation Electrification. Please find the final peer-reviewed early-access version at: