Force Estimation of an Asymmetrical Pantograph for Different Damper Positions

Objectives: To estimate the optimal position of the damper (resort) for an asymmetrical pantograph drive system used for electric trains supply. Methods/Analysis: Different solutions to attach the damper are studied, considering the pull bar position, and the equations accordingly to every solution are estimated. The pantograph is droved by a resort, but it could be used any other mechanism, like pneumatic or hydraulic drive system. Findings: These analyses can be used to identify the optimal position of the pull bar from the main axle of the pantograph, in order to find the optimal work area of the pantograph, with small variation of the contact force and with a better contact between the pantograph and the contact line. Novelty/Improvement: An asymmetrical pantograph model at a scale of 1/4 is used for experiments, considering the force variation for lifting and descending of the pantograph. For the situations when the resort is attached by a crank (above or below of the oscillation point), in the relation of the force it appears a new expression.