Coupling performance between pantograph parameters and dropper spacing considering the amplitude-frequency characteristics the of pantograph

The amplitude-frequency characteristics of a pantograph were derived. Based on the analysis of force fluctuation, the coupling relationship between pantograph parameters and droppers was obtained. Then the variation of the amplitude- frequency characteristics was analyzed by changing pantograph parameters individually. It is found the influence of the collector head's mass and stiffness on the amplitude-frequency characteristics is obvious. The coupling relationship in the pantograph- catenary simulation system was validated by observing the variation of contact force standard deviation with different mass and stiffness of the collector head respectively. Adjusting the pantograph parameters to make the frequency, at which the response on the amplitude-frequency curve reaches its minimum, be equal to the frequency of the droppers, the fluctuation of contact force would be lowered, which means the current collection quality is improved to some extent. The coupling relationship proposed can be referential to the design, selection and performance assessment of pantograph-catenary systems. © 2016, Editorial Office of Journal of Vibration and Shock. All right reserved.