Initial Propulsion System Study for the Futuristic Hyperloop Transportation System: Design, Modeling, and Hardware in the Loop Verification

Recently, the proposal for a futuristic mode of transportation known as the Hyperloop has been popularized. Currently, there are only some reports regarding the design of the Hyperloop. More specifically, reports regarding the propulsion system design methodology for Hyperloop is minimal. Thus, this paper provides an initial steppingstone to modeling and simulation study for the propulsion system in a Hyperloop. The main contribution of this study is to provide a relatively simple design methodology for any future Hyperloop endeavors. This is shown using state of the art simulators to aid in designing the propulsion system. The design revolves around the linear synchronous motor based on field-oriented control through a three – phase inverter. PSIM is used to develop the model and design the full power system and controller. This includes the DC-DC converter, battery system model, three – phase inverter, and the motor controller. The motor used for modelling is a rotary permanent magnet synchronous motor. Finally, hardware in the loop technology is used to verify and validate the design. The controller design is tested through a Texas Instrument digital signal processor. The real time verification shows matching results with the offline simulation model.