Pantograph-catenary interaction: recent achievements and future research challenges

This paper aims to provide an overview of the present status of research in pantograph–overhead line interaction and to outline future research challenges. A review of currently used modelling and simulation approaches is provided, also including hybrid simulation, and emerging trends are outlined. Then, line testing methods for the certification of pantographs and catenaries are described and the limitations of measuring methods now in use are highlighted. Issues related to the reliability and availability of the pantograph–overhead line system and to life-cycle costs are then covered in the paper, particularly concerning wear and other damage phenomena and condition monitoring solutions enabling the efficient maintenance of the system. Pantograph aerodynamics and active control of pantographs are finally identified as two emerging trends of research. For both subjects, a review of problems currently at stake and of future research directions is provided.