Simulation of the dynamic interaction of rail vehicle pantograph and catenary through a modal approach

Electric trains rely on the pantograph and the overhead catenary system (OCS) to receive energy from the power main lines. The purpose of this article is to elaborate on the simulation of pantograph and catenary dynamic interaction. The main feature of this method is using a fast analytical approach in order to simulate the entire catenary and to avoid using the finite elements method. This method is making use of the system vibration modes. Therefore, vital phenomenon such as the wave propagation and reflections can also be simulated. Additionally, droppers under compression are simulated as buckled columns that can endure certain amount of compression forces. Inclusion of the proper OCS initial conditions is also a unique add on to this procedure. Evaluation of both static and dynamic responses of catenary is by comparing with the results from some other available software programs. Validation of the results is according to EN 50318: 2002 standard document.