Authors:
P. Srinivasan, K. Arulvendhan, Amal Babu
Addresses:
Department of Electrical and Electronics, Saveetha Engineering College, Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ramapuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
This study examines the integration of a supercapacitor-based multilevel inverter within a traction control system, with a focus on its operational control strategies. A combined model incorporating traction control dynamics and forecasting of power generation from the supercapacitor is developed to optimize inverter operation and support real-time energy scheduling. The study introduces a droop control method specifically designed for power electronic converters interfaced with battery storage, thereby enhancing voltage regulation and load sharing in dynamic environments. Simulation models are created using LT Spice/ Simulink to evaluate three configurations: an open-loop super capacitor system, a closed-loop system using PID control, and a hybrid system combining super capacitors with a PID-controlled multilevel inverter. Comparative analysis of these models reveals that the PID-based inverter system significantly outperforms the others in terms of response speed, voltage regulation, and system stability. The closed-loop control enables more accurate handling of transient conditions, reducing voltage sag and improving current regulation. Furthermore, the system demonstrates reduced hardware complexity, offering a compact and cost-effective solution suitable for traction applications. By leveraging the rapid charge-discharge characteristics of super capacitors along with the fine-tuned control capabilities of PID algorithms, the proposed system ensures reliable and efficient traction performance under variable load conditions.
Keywords: Super Capacitor; Multilevel Inverter; PI and PID Controller; LT Spice/Simulink; Response Speed; Hardware Complexity; Cost-Effective; Traction Control Technology; Pulse Width Modulation.
Received: 18/05/2024, Revised: 28/06/2024, Accepted: 03/09/2024, Published: 07/03/2025
DOI: 10.64091/ATIAS.2025.000115
AVE Trends in Intelligent Applied Sciences, 2025 Vol. 1 No. 1 , Pages: 48-58