Knowledge of the speed profile of electric tramway vehicles is crucial for optimizing tramway traffic management procedures. This includes creating and optimizing timetables, calculating energy consumption, and maintaining rail infrastructure. The speed profile is influenced by many parameters, such as the maximum permitted speed and acceleration of the tram, the distance between stops, and the dwell time.
In the past, a simplified model that assumed constant acceleration and deceleration was used to determine the speed profile of tramway vehicles. However, this model can lead to inaccuracies, especially for vehicles with high acceleration or deceleration capabilities. A more accurate approach is to use a model that considers the actual acceleration profile of the train. This can be done using data collected from GPS sensors to track the speed of the train over time.
This paper presents a comparative evaluation of three acceleration models: a simple linear model, a linear multi-regime model, and a polynomial model, created from the data collected on the Zagreb tramway network. The GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) device was used to collect data on the acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle.
Using proposed model to calculate the speed profile and timetable with an acceleration profile has several advantages. Firstly, it can improve the accuracy of the speed profile and timetable, which can lead to higher efficiency and reliability. Secondly, the timetable can be optimised for specific requirements, e.g. to minimise travel time or maximise passenger capacity.

rail infrastructure; traffic management; timetable