Analysis of the mini-pantograph/fixed rail sliding-contact current collector as used on transit systems

The method of current collection by a mini-pantograph which forms a sliding electrical contact with a fixed power rail is evaluated for use on a guided vehicle transit system. In order to establish the constraints on the problem of current collection at high speeds, the general theory of sliding electrical contacts is examined and conclusions are made on its application in terms of contact wear at the brush/rail interface. The "state of the art" in mini-pantograph current collectors is established by a discussion of the mechanical configurations of guided transit systems in this class and a review of the published material on the dynamic analysis of current collection. Finally, this background of information is applied to a conceptual actively controlled current collector and the results of a digital computer simulation lead to conclusions on the practicality of the active current collector concept.