Current collector, estimation system, estimation method, program, and current collector system

Abstract

The present invention provides a current collector, estimation system, estimation method, program, and current collector system that can improve convenience. [Solution] The current collector 10 comprises an imaging unit 61, a measuring unit, and a notification unit. The imaging unit 61 is fixed to a fixed member 5 or a mobile device and includes at least a portion of the wear confirmation line 21 and the covering member A12 within its imaging range. The measuring unit measures the distance D1 between the covering member A12 and the wear confirmation line 21 using the image captured by the imaging unit 61. The notification unit notifies the measurement result of the measuring unit.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to current collectors, estimation systems, estimation methods, programs, and current collection systems. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a current collector, an estimation system, an estimation method, a program, and a current collection system that transmit electric power from a trolley wire to a mobile device. [Background Art]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a current collector that collects current from a trolley wire, in which a conductor is provided in a guide groove, to a mobile device. The current collector includes a mounting member and a current collection element. The mounting member is mounted on the mobile device. The current collection element moves along the guide groove and is in sliding contact with the conductor. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2010-252495 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] In a current collector such as that described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to remove the current collector from the trolley wire to check whether replacement of the current collection element is necessary, so there has been a problem of low convenience.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a current collector, an estimation system, an estimation method, a program, and a current collection system that can improve convenience. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0006] A current collector according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a current collector that transmits power from a trolley wire having a conductor and a covering member covering a part of the conductor to a mobile device. The current collector comprises a current collector, a holder, a wear confirmation line, a connecting member, a fixing member, an imaging unit, a measuring unit, and a notification unit. The current collector has a contact surface that contacts the conductor and is movable while the contact surface is in contact with the conductor. The holder holds the current collector. The wear confirmation line is provided parallel to the contact surface in the current collector or the holder. The connecting member supports the holder. The fixing member is connected to the connecting member and is fixed to the mobile device. The imaging unit is fixed to the fixing member or the mobile device and its imaging range includes the wear confirmation line and at least a part of the covering member. The measuring unit measures the distance between the covering member and the wear confirmation line using the image captured by the imaging unit. The notification unit notifies the measurement result of the measuring unit.

[0007] An estimation system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a current collector, a distance sensor for measuring the distance traveled by the current collector, and an estimation unit for estimating the lifespan of the current collector based on the measurement result of the measurement unit and the measurement result of the distance sensor.

[0008] An estimation method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an estimation method for estimating the lifespan of a current collector provided in a current collector. The estimation method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an estimation step of estimating the lifespan of the current collector based on the measurement result of the measuring unit and the measurement result of a distance sensor that measures the distance traveled by the current collector.

[0009] A program according to one aspect of this disclosure causes one or more processors to execute the estimation method.

[0010] A current collection system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises the current collector and the trolley wire. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to this disclosure, there is an advantage in that convenience can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram of the estimation system according to the present embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a plan view of the current collection section of the current collection device according to this embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side view of the current collection section of the current collection device described above. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the multiple trolley wires of the same current collector. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a plan view of the main part of the current collection section of the current collector shown above, in a state where the current collector is not worn. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a plan view of the main part of the current collection section of the current collection device described above, in a state where the current collector is worn. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a graph illustrating the operation of the estimation system described above. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an estimation method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a block diagram of the estimation system for modified example 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] The embodiments and modifications described below are merely examples of the present disclosure. This disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and modifications, and various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as they do not depart from the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure. The figures described in the embodiments and modifications below are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in the figures do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0014] (Embodiment) (1) Overview Hereinafter, an overview of the current collector 10 and the current collection system 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0015] The current collector 10 is attached to a mobile device (not shown). The mobile device is, for example, a self-propelled carriage or a hoist. The mobile device moves by electric power supplied from the trolley line A1 (see FIGS. 1 and 4) via the current collector 10. The trolley line A1 includes a conductor A11 and a covering member A12 covering a part of the conductor A11.

[0016] The current collector 10 of the present embodiment transmits electric power from the trolley line A1 to the mobile device. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the current collector 10 includes a current collecting element 1, a holder 2, a wear confirmation line 21, a connecting member 3, a fixing member 5, an imaging unit 61, a measuring unit 62 (see FIG. 1), and a notification unit 7 (see FIG. 1). The current collecting element 1 has a contact surface 11 that contacts the conductor A11 of the trolley line A1. The current collecting element 1 is configured to be movable in a state where the contact surface 11 is in contact with the conductor A11. The holder 2 holds the current collecting element 1. The wear confirmation line 21 is provided on the holder 2 in parallel with the contact surface 11 of the current collecting element 1. The connecting member 3 supports the holder 2. The fixing member 5 is connected to the connecting member 3 and is fixed to the mobile device. The imaging unit 61 is fixed to the fixing member 5, and the imaging range includes the wear confirmation line 21 and at least a part of the covering member A12 (see FIGS. 5 and 6). The measuring unit 62 measures a distance D1 (see FIGS. 5 and 6) between the covering member A12 and the wear confirmation line 21 using a captured image picked up by the imaging unit 61. The notification unit 7 notifies a measurement result obtained by the measuring unit 62.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, the current collection system 100 includes the current collector 10 and the trolley line A1.

[0018] Here, a distance D1 (see FIG. 6) between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the wear confirmation line 21 in the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is worn is shorter than the distance D1 (see FIG. 5) in the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is not worn. That is, the distance D1 between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the wear confirmation line 21 decreases as the current collector 1 wears. Therefore, when the measurement result of the measurement unit 62 is notified from the notification unit 7, a user of the current collector 10 can check the wear amount of the current collector 1 while the current collector 1 remains in contact with the conductor A11, and can check whether replacement of the current collector 1 is necessary. This improves convenience.

[0019] (2) Detailed Configuration Next, detailed configurations of the current collection system 100, the current collector 10, and the estimation system 1000 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0020] (2-1) Current Collection System The current collection system 100 is a system for supplying electric power to a mobile device.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1, the current collection system 100 includes the current collector 10 and a plurality of (e.g., four) trolley wires A1. The current collector 10 includes a current collection unit X1, a measurement device 620, and a data processing device 71. That is, the current collection system 100 includes the four trolley wires A1, the current collection unit X1, and the data processing device 71. Note that only one trolley wire A1 is illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 4, the four trolley wires A1 are arranged along one direction. The current collection unit X1 is attached to any one of the four trolley wires A1. The current collection unit X1 is configured to be movable relative to the attached trolley wire A1.

[0023] In this embodiment, the direction in which the four trolley wires A1 are aligned is defined as the vertical direction. The direction in which the current collector X1 is attached to any one of the four trolley wires A1 is defined as the front-to-back direction, and the direction of movement of the current collector X1 is defined as the left-to-right direction. However, these definitions are not intended to define the direction of use of the current collection system 100. Furthermore, the arrows in the drawings indicating "vertical direction," "left-to-right direction," and "front-to-back direction" are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent actual functions.

[0024] In this embodiment, the four trolley wires A1 have the same structure. Therefore, in the following description, we will describe one trolley wire A1 to which the current collector X1 is attached. In the following description, one trolley wire A1 will simply be referred to as trolley wire A1.

[0025] (2-1-1) Trolley wire As shown in Figures 4 to 6, the trolley wire A1 has a conductor A11 and a covering member A12 that covers a part of the conductor A11.

[0026] Conductor A11 functions as a power supply unit that supplies power to mobile equipment via the current collector X1. Conductor A11 is a long, plate-like structure extending in the left-right direction. That is, the longitudinal direction of conductor A11 is aligned with the left-right direction. Conductor A11 is formed of, for example, a metallic material (e.g., copper).

[0027] The covering member A12 is a long member that extends along the left-right direction. The covering member A12 is a long member with a roughly U-shaped cross-section and an open rear end. The covering member A12 covers a portion of the conductor A11 so that the conductor A11 is exposed at the rear.

[0028] The covering member A12 is formed of, for example, an insulating material (e.g., an electrically insulating synthetic resin). The covering member A12 is a so-called insulating sheath.

[0029] (2-1-2) Current collection section The current collector unit X1 transmits power from the trolley wire A1 to the mobile equipment. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the current collector unit X1 of this embodiment comprises a plurality (e.g., two) current collectors 1, a plurality (e.g., two) holders 2, a plurality (e.g., two) connecting members 3, a plurality (e.g., two) support members 4, a fixing member 5, an imaging unit 6, and a plurality (e.g., two) cables C1.

[0030] (electronic collector) Each of the two current collectors 1 is a component that contacts the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. That is, each of the two current collectors 1 has a contact surface 11 that contacts the conductor A11. Each of the two current collectors 1 moves along the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the trolley wire A1 with its contact surface 11 in contact with the conductor A11. In other words, each of the two current collectors 1 moves along the longitudinal direction of the trolley wire A1 and slides against the conductor A11. In this embodiment, since the current collector 10 transmits power from one trolley wire A1 to a moving device, each of the two current collectors 1 contacts the conductor A11 of the same trolley wire A1. The two current collectors 1 are symmetrical to each other. Therefore, the following will describe the right current collector 1 (hereinafter simply referred to as current collector 1), and the description of the left current collector 1 will be omitted.

[0031] The current collector 1 is a conductor. The current collector 1 is made of, for example, a metallic material. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the shape of the current collector 1 is a trapezoid that is elongated in the left-right direction when viewed from above. In other words, the longitudinal direction of the current collector 1 is aligned in the left-right direction. The contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 that contacts the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1 is the front end surface of the current collector 1. In other words, the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is the side surface corresponding to the top base of the trapezoid in the current collector 1.

[0032] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the current collector 1 is provided with a second wear confirmation line 12 that is parallel to the contact surface 11 and is on a different line from the first wear confirmation line 21 of the holder 2, which will be described later. This configuration has the advantage that the user can accurately confirm the degree of wear of the current collector 1 by checking the distance between the contact surface 11 and the second wear confirmation line 12 when the current collector 1 is removed from the trolley wire A1.

[0033] The second wear confirmation line 12 is located at a position away from the contact surface 11 on the current collector 1. More specifically, the second wear confirmation line 12 is located on the rear portion of the current collector 1. In other words, the second wear confirmation line 12 is located near the bottom base of the trapezoid on the current collector 1.

[0034] The second wear confirmation line 12 is a concave shape and is provided on the current collector 1. In other words, the second wear confirmation line 12 is a groove provided on the current collector 1.

[0035] (Holder) Each of the two holders 2 corresponds one-to-one with multiple electron collectors 1. Each of the two holders 2 holds a corresponding electron collector 1 from among the two electron collectors 1. Each of the two holders 2 is aligned with its corresponding electron collector 1 in the front-to-back direction. The two holders 2 are symmetrical to each other. Therefore, the explanation below will focus on the right-hand holder 2 (hereinafter simply referred to as holder 2), and the explanation of the left-hand holder 2 will be omitted.

[0036] The holder 2 has a holding portion 20, a connector portion 28, and a connecting portion 29.

[0037] The holding portion 20 is a member that holds corresponding electron collectors 1 out of the two electron collectors 1. The holding portion 20 is a plate-shaped member with the vertical direction as the thickness direction, the horizontal direction as the longitudinal direction, and the front-to-back direction as the short direction. In other words, the holding portion 20 extends in the left-to-right direction. As a result, the holding portion 20 can stably hold corresponding electron collectors 1 that extend in the left-to-right direction.

[0038] The holding portion 20 has electrical insulating properties. The holding portion 20 is formed from, for example, a synthetic resin.

[0039] The holding portion 20 holds the corresponding electron collector 1 so as to cover the rear end of the corresponding electron collector 1. Therefore, the contact surface 11 of the electron collector 1 is exposed to the outside of the corresponding holding portion 20.

[0040] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 is provided with a first wear confirmation line 21 parallel to the contact surface 11. In this embodiment, the first wear confirmation line 21 corresponds to the wear confirmation line of the present disclosure. The first wear confirmation line 21 is, for example, paint printed on the holding portion 20 of the holder 2. In Embodiment 1, the first wear confirmation line 21 is provided on two opposing sides (upper and lower surfaces) of the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 along the thickness direction.

[0041] The first wear confirmation line 21 is provided on the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 in a visible color. More specifically, the first wear confirmation line 21 is provided in a different color from the holding portion 20. For example, if the holding portion 20 is black, the first wear confirmation line 21 is provided in white or yellow, etc. With the above configuration, the user can easily check how much shorter the distance D1 between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the first wear confirmation line 21 is in a current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is worn (see Figure 6) compared to the above distance D1 in a current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is not worn (see Figure 5). As a result, there is an advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector 1 can be checked more easily.

[0042] In this embodiment, the first wear confirmation line 21 is provided in the holding portion 20 of the holder 2, extending along the direction of movement (left-right direction) in which the current collector 1 moves while the contact surface 11 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. That is, the first wear confirmation line 21 is provided in the holding portion 20 of the holder 2, extending along the longitudinal direction of the holding portion 20 of the holder 2. More specifically, the first wear confirmation line 21 is provided in the holding portion 20 such that the left end of the first wear confirmation line 21 connects to the left side surface of the holding portion 20, and the right end of the first wear confirmation line 21 connects to the right side surface of the holding portion 20.

[0043] The connector portion 28 is provided on the right side of the rear end of the holding portion 20. A cable C1, which is electrically connected to the mobile device, is connected to the connector portion 28. The connector portion 28 has an outer casing 281 and terminals (not shown) housed inside the outer casing 281. The outer casing 281 is electrically insulating. The outer casing 281 is formed from, for example, synthetic resin. The outer casing 281 protrudes rearward from the holding portion 20. The terminals of the connector portion 28 are electrically connected to the current collector 1, which is held in the holder 2 having the connector portion 28. The cable C1 connected to the connector portion 28 is electrically connected to the terminals of the connector portion 28 and electrically connected to the current collector 1 via the terminals. Therefore, power is supplied from the current collector 1 to the mobile device via the cable C1.

[0044] The connecting portion 29 is provided in the center of the rear end of the holding portion 20. The connecting portion 29 has a cylindrical base portion 291 with its axis oriented in the front-rear direction, and a connecting piece 292 provided at the front end of the base portion 291. The connecting piece 292 supports the holding portion 20 so that it can rotate about the axis in the vertical direction. More specifically, the connecting piece 292 supports the holding portion 20 so that it can rotate about the axis in the vertical direction by inserting a shaft member through through holes provided in the connecting piece 292 and the holding portion 20, respectively.

[0045] (Connecting component) Each of the two connecting members 3 corresponds one-to-one with one of the two holders 2. Each of the two connecting members 3 connects the corresponding holder 2 of the two holders 2 to the fixing member 5. The two connecting members 3 are symmetrical to each other. Therefore, the following explanation will focus on the right-hand connecting member 3 (hereinafter simply referred to as connecting member 3), and the explanation of the left-hand connecting member 3 will be omitted.

[0046] As shown in Figure 2, the connecting member 3 includes a pair of connecting arms 31 and 32, a first mounting portion 33, a second mounting portion (not shown), and a biasing member 34. The connecting member 3 is also referred to as an arm member.

[0047] The first mounting portion 33 is a cylindrical member. The base portion 291 of the connecting portion 29 is inserted into the first mounting portion 33. In this way, the first mounting portion 33 supports the connecting portion 29 so that it can rotate around the front-rear axis. In short, the connecting member 3 supports the holder 2.

[0048] The connecting arms 31 and 32 are arranged parallel to each other along the front-to-back direction.

[0049] The right ends of the connecting arms 31 and 32 are connected to the first mounting portion 33. More specifically, the right ends of the connecting arms 31 and 32 are connected to the first mounting portion 33 so that the connecting arms 31 and 32 can rotate with respect to the first mounting portion 33 as an axis in the vertical direction.

[0050] Furthermore, the left ends of the connecting arms 31 and 32 are connected to the second mounting section. More specifically, the left ends of the connecting arms 31 and 32 are connected to the second mounting section so that the connecting arms 31 and 32 can rotate around the second mounting section as an axis in the vertical direction.

[0051] The second mounting portion is rotatably connected to the fixing member 5, which will be described later, with respect to the front-to-back axis.

[0052] The biasing member 34 is a member that applies a forward force to the first mounting portion 33. In this embodiment, the biasing member 34 is a tension spring. Because the biasing member 34 applies a forward force to the first mounting portion 33, the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is pressed against the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1 via the first mounting portion 33. In other words, the current collector 1 is able to move while in contact with the conductor A11 because a pressing force is applied to the conductor A11 by the biasing member 34.

[0053] (Support member) Each of the two support members 4 corresponds one-to-one with each of the two connecting members 3. Each of the two support members 4 supports the left end of the pair of connecting arms 31 and 32 on the corresponding connecting member 3. The two support members 4 are symmetrical to each other. Therefore, the following description will focus on the right-hand support member 4 (hereinafter simply referred to as support member 4), and the description of the left-hand support member 4 will be omitted.

[0054] The support member 4 has a pair of support pieces 41 arranged opposite each other in the vertical direction, and a connecting piece 42 connecting the pair of support pieces 41. The pair of support pieces 41 clamp the left ends of the connecting arms 31 and 32 in the vertical direction. This prevents the pair of connecting arms 31 and 32 from being displaced in the vertical direction. This prevents uneven wear of the current collector 1.

[0055] (Fixing member) The fixing member 5 is fixed to the mobile device. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the fixing member 5 has a main body 50, a plate 51, two fixing shafts 52, and two nuts 53. A part of the mobile device is inserted into the gap 54 formed between the main body 50 and the plate 51. Each of the two fixing shafts 52 protrudes from the side (rear side) of the main body 50 and is inserted through a through hole (not shown) provided in the plate 51. By fastening the nuts 53 to each of the two fixing shafts 52, the part of the mobile device inserted into the gap 54 is sandwiched between the main body 50 and the plate 51. In this way, the fixing member 5, i.e., the current collector 10, is fixed to the mobile device.

[0056] (Imaging unit) As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the imaging unit 6 includes two imaging devices 610, a first support member 611, and two second support members 612. In this embodiment, the two imaging devices 610 correspond one-to-one with the two current collectors 1.

[0057] The two imaging devices 610 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. Similarly, the two second support members 612 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. The right imaging device 610 corresponds to the rightmost of the two second support members 612, and the left imaging device 610 corresponds to the leftmost of the two second support members 612. Each of the two imaging devices 610 is fixed and supported to the fixing member 5 by the first support member 611 and the corresponding second support member 612 of the two second support members 612.

[0058] The first support member 611 is columnar in shape with its axial direction in the vertical direction. The lower end of the first support member 611 is fixed to the upper surface of the main body 50 of the fixing member 5.

[0059] Each of the two second support members 612 is columnar in shape, with its axial direction oriented in a direction that intersects (in this case, perpendicular to) the vertical direction. The first end of each of the two second support members 612 is connected to the upper end of the first support member 611, and the corresponding imaging device 610 is installed at the second end of each of the two second support members 612.

[0060] The imaging device 610 includes the first wear confirmation line 21 and at least a portion of the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 in its imaging range. More specifically, the imaging device 610 is fixed to the fixing member 5 such that the imaging range includes the first wear confirmation line 21 and at least a portion of the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1. In this embodiment, each of the two imaging devices 610 is fixed to the fixing member 5 such that the imaging range includes the first wear confirmation line 21 and at least a portion of the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 in the corresponding current collector 1. In other words, the imaging device 610 functions as the imaging unit 61 in this disclosure. The imaging device 610 is, for example, a camera having an image sensor and a lens.

[0061] The imaging device 610 images at least one of the following: the distribution of wear particles generated by the wear of the current collector 1, and the state of conductor burrs generated on the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. Here, "wear particles" refer to particles generated when a part of the current collector 1 is scraped away during wear. "Distribution of wear particles" refers to how the above-mentioned wear particles are distributed and accumulated on the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, the covering member A12, the current collector 1, or the holder 2. "Conductor burrs" are protrusions, etc., that are generated when a part of the conductor A11 is deformed as the current collector 1 moves while the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. "State of conductor burrs" includes whether or not conductor burrs are present, or the size or location of any conductor burrs that are present. This configuration has the advantage that the user can determine whether or not an abnormality has occurred based on the image captured by the imaging device 610.

[0062] The imaging device 610 is connected to the measuring device 620, which will be described later, for example, by a wire. Alternatively, the imaging device 610 may be connected to the measuring device 620 wirelessly. Data including the image captured by the imaging device 610 (imaging unit 61) is transmitted to the measuring device 620.

[0063] (Status sensor) The state sensor 8 detects a physical quantity that indicates the state of the current collector 1. In this embodiment, the state sensor 8 is mounted inside the current collector X1.

[0064] The state sensor 8 includes at least one of the following: a temperature sensor 81 for measuring the temperature of the current collector 1, a pressure sensor 82 for measuring the pressure applied to the current collector 1, and an electrical characteristic sensor 83 for measuring the electrical characteristics of the current collector 1. Here, the electrical characteristics of the current collector 1 measured by the electrical characteristic sensor 83 include the current flowing from the trolley wire A1 to the cable C1 via the current collector 1, and the potential difference between the current collector 1 and ground.

[0065] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, the current collector X1 includes a temperature sensor 81, a pressure sensor 82, and an electrical characteristic sensor 83 as state sensors 8. The temperature sensor 81, pressure sensor 82, and electrical characteristic sensor 83 are connected to a data processing device 71, which will be described later, for example by wire. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 81, pressure sensor 82, and electrical characteristic sensor 83 may be connected to the data processing device 71 wirelessly. Data including the measurement results of the temperature sensor 81, pressure sensor 82, and electrical characteristic sensor 83 is transmitted to the data processing device 71. The data including the measurement results of the temperature sensor 81, pressure sensor 82, and electrical characteristic sensor 83 is, for example, analog data.

[0066] (2-1-3) Measuring device The measuring device 620 measures the distance D1 (see Figures 5 and 6) between the covering member A12 and the first wear confirmation line 21 using the image captured by the imaging device 610 (imaging unit 61). In other words, the measuring device 620 functions as the measuring unit 62 in this disclosure. The distance D1 measured by the measuring device 620 is the distance in the front-rear direction between the rear end surface of the covering member A12 and the front end of the first wear confirmation line 21. The measuring device 620 is composed of, for example, a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), a personal computer, etc.

[0067] The measuring device 620 is connected to the data processing device 71, which will be described later, for example, by a wired connection. Alternatively, the measuring device 620 may be connected to the data processing device 71 wirelessly. Data including the measurement results from the measuring device 620 (measuring unit 62) is transmitted to the data processing device 71. The data including the measurement results from the measuring device 620 is, for example, analog data. Similarly, data including the captured image from the imaging device 610 (imaging unit 61) is also transmitted to the data processing device 71.

[0068] The measuring device 620 may be mounted on, for example, a mobile device. Alternatively, the measuring device 620 may be mounted on the current collector X1. Furthermore, the measuring device 620 may be integrally formed with the imaging device 610.

[0069] (2-1-4) Data Processing Devices The data processing device 71 is a device that processes data including the measurement results from the measurement unit 62 (measurement device 620), the measurement results from the temperature sensor 81, the measurement results from the pressure sensor 82, the measurement results from the electrical characteristics sensor 83, and the measurement results from the travel distance sensor 9, which will be described later. The data processing device 71 is composed of, for example, a PLC, a personal computer, etc. The data processing device 71 may also be a portable information terminal such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0070] The data processing device 71 is mounted, for example, on a mobile device. Alternatively, the data processing device 71 may be mounted on the current collector X1.

[0071] The data processing device 71 acquires data including the measurement results from the measurement unit 62, the temperature sensor 81, the pressure sensor 82, the electrical characteristics sensor 83, and the distance traveled sensor 9 (described later) at predetermined intervals, and converts the analog data into digital data. Hereinafter, the data including the measurement results from the measurement unit 62, the temperature sensor 81, the pressure sensor 82, the electrical characteristics sensor 83, and the distance traveled sensor 9, which have been converted into digital data, may be referred to as measurement result data.

[0072] The data processing device 71 transmits the measurement result data to the cloud server 200 via an external network NT1 (see Figure 1), such as a wireless router and the internet. In other words, the data processing device 71 functions as a notification unit 7 that notifies the cloud server 200 of the measurement result data. If the data processing device 71 has a display unit, the data processing device 71 may display the measurement result data on the display unit.

[0073] Similarly, the data processing device 71 transmits data, including the captured image from the imaging device 610 (imaging unit 61), to the cloud server 200 via the external network NT1. In other words, the data processing device 71 functions as a notification unit 7 that notifies the cloud server 200 of the captured image from the imaging device 610. If the data processing device 71 has a display unit, the data processing device 71 may display the captured image from the imaging device 610 on the display unit.

[0074] (2-2) Estimation System As shown in Figure 1, the estimation system 1000 includes a current collector 10, a distance sensor 9, a cloud server 200, and an information terminal 300.

[0075] (2-2-1) Distance Sensor The distance sensor 9 includes, for example, a plurality of limit switches provided at predetermined intervals on the trolley wire A1. Each limit switch is connected to the data processing device 71, for example, wirelessly. Each limit switch transmits an ON signal to the data processing device 71 when, for example, a dog provided on the current collector X1 contacts each limit switch as the current collector X1 moves. The cloud server 200, described later, derives the cumulative distance W1 of the current collector X1 based on the ON signals (measurement results of the distance sensor 9) transmitted from each limit switch. Specifically, the cloud server 200 derives the cumulative distance W1 of the current collector X1 based on the number of times each limit switch has been turned ON and the order in which they were turned ON. In other words, the distance sensor 9 indirectly measures the cumulative distance W1 of the current collector X1. The distance sensor 9 may also be provided on the current collector X1 to directly measure the cumulative distance W1 of the current collector X1.

[0076] (2-2-2) Cloud Server Cloud server 200 is a server that connects to the external network NT1 and provides services.

[0077] The cloud server 200 is connected to the data processing device 71 via the external network NT1 and a wireless router, enabling communication between them. The memory of the cloud server 200 stores the measurement result data received from the data processing device 71 in chronological order.

[0078] The cloud server 200 has an estimation unit 201 and a status output unit 202. In other words, the estimation unit 201 and the status output unit 202 are implemented by cloud computing. This eliminates the need for server operation and management compared to when the estimation unit 201 and the status output unit 202 are implemented by an on-premises server, thereby reducing costs. Note that the estimation unit 201 and the status output unit 202 merely represent functions implemented by the cloud server 200 and do not necessarily represent an actual physical configuration.

[0079] (Estimation Department) The estimation unit 201 estimates the lifetime of the current collector 1 based on the measurement results from the measurement unit 62 and the measurement results from the distance sensor 9, which are included in the measurement result data. The estimation unit 201 estimates the lifetime of the current collector 1 at predetermined time intervals (first time intervals), for example. The estimation unit 201 may also estimate the lifetime of the current collector 1 when instructed by the user via the information terminal 300, which will be described later.

[0080] The functions of the estimation unit 201 will be described in detail below.

[0081] First, let's explain the lifespan of the current collector 1. As described above, the current collector X1 moves along the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the trolley wire A1 together with the moving equipment, with the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 in contact with the conductor A11. As a result, the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 wears down in the front-rear direction as the cumulative travel distance W1 of the current collector X1 increases. When the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 has worn down by a predetermined length L1 from its new state, it is necessary to replace the current collector 1 or the current collector X1 with a new one. In other words, the cumulative travel distance W1 of the current collector X1 until the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 has worn down by a predetermined length L1 from its new state is the lifespan of the current collector 1.

[0082] Here, the distance D1 between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the first wear confirmation line 21 in the current collection section X1 (see Figure 6) of the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is worn is shorter than the distance D1 in the current collection section X1 (see Figure 5) of the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is not worn. In other words, the decrease in distance D1 from the new state, G1, between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the first wear confirmation line 21 can be said to be the amount of wear on the current collector 1. When the decrease in distance D1 G1 reaches a predetermined length L1, it is necessary to replace the current collector 1 or the current collection section X1 with a new one.

[0083] The estimation unit 201 derives the decrease amount G1 of distance D1 from the measurement results of the measurement unit 62. The estimation unit 201 also derives the cumulative travel distance W1 of the current collection unit X1 from the measurement results of the travel distance sensor 9.

[0084] The estimation unit 201 derives the decrease in distance D1 G1 and the cumulative distance traveled by the current collector X1 W1 at predetermined time intervals (second time intervals) while the current collector X1 is operating. Here, the second time interval is shorter than the first time interval in which the estimation unit 201 estimates the lifetime of the current collector 1.

[0085] The estimation unit 201 links the derived decrease amount G1 and the cumulative distance traveled W1 together and stores them as a set of derived data in the memory of the cloud server 200.

[0086] The estimation unit 201 estimates the lifetime of the current collector 1 based on multiple sets of accumulated derivation data. The operation of the estimation unit 201 to estimate the lifetime of the current collector 1 will now be explained with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a graph with cumulative travel distance W1 on the horizontal axis and decrease amount G1 on the vertical axis. The multiple sets of accumulated derivation data are reset when the current collector 1 or the current collector X1 is replaced with a new one. That is, when the current collector 1 is in a new condition, i.e., when the decrease amount G1 is 0, the cumulative travel distance W1 is 0.

[0087] The estimation unit 201 linearly approximates multiple sets of derived data (decrease amount G1 and cumulative distance traveled W1) and derives an approximate formula G1 = α × W1, which shows the relationship between the cumulative distance traveled W1 and the decrease amount G1. Here, α is a proportionality constant that represents the decrease amount G1 per unit distance. Then, the estimation unit 201 estimates the lifetime of the electron collector 1 (estimated lifetime Ls1), which is the cumulative distance traveled W1 when the decrease amount G1 reaches a predetermined length L1, from G1 = α × W1. The estimation unit 201 also estimates the remaining lifetime of the electron collector 1 (estimated remaining lifetime Ls2) by subtracting the latest cumulative distance traveled W1, which is the distance traveled W10 at the time of lifetime estimation, from the estimated lifetime Ls1.

[0088] The estimation unit 201 outputs life data, including information on the estimated lifespan Ls1 and the estimated remaining lifespan Ls2, to the information terminal 300 (described later) via the external network NT1.

[0089] (Status output section) The status output unit 202 outputs status data to the information terminal 300, arranged in chronological order, which includes the decrease in current collector 1 G1 up to the point when the estimation unit 201 derived the estimated lifespan Ls1 and the estimated remaining lifespan Ls2, the measurement results of the temperature sensor 81, the measurement results of the pressure sensor 82, and the power obtained from the measurement results of the electrical characteristics sensor 83 (the current flowing from the trolley wire A1 to the cable C1 via the current collector 1, and the potential difference between the current collector 1 and ground). The status output unit 202 may also calculate the amount of energy obtained by integrating the power over time, or it may calculate the time integral of the current flowing from the trolley wire A1 to the cable C1 via the current collector 1.

[0090] (2-2-2) Information terminal As shown in Figure 1, the information terminal 300 is connected to the cloud server 200 via the external network NT1, enabling communication.

[0091] The information terminal 300 is, for example, a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet device, or a wearable device such as a smartwatch.

[0092] The information terminal 300 includes a display unit 301 for displaying information. The display unit 301 includes, for example, a thin display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. The content displayed on the display unit 301 is controlled by a control unit (not shown) of the information terminal 300. The control unit may be implemented by, for example, a computer system including one or more processors (microprocessors) and one or more memories.

[0093] The display unit 301 displays the lifespan data received from the estimation unit 201. This allows the user to determine whether the current collector 1 or the current collector X1 needs to be replaced based on the estimated lifespan Ls1 and estimated remaining lifespan Ls2 of the current collector 1. This also allows the user to understand the approximate timing for replacing the current collector 1 or the current collector X1.

[0094] Furthermore, the display unit 301 displays the status data received from the status output unit 202. This allows the user to check the decrease amount G1 of the current collector 1 and determine whether the current collector 1 needs to be replaced. In addition, if the estimated lifetime Ls1 and estimated remaining lifetime Ls2 are abnormally short, the user can estimate the cause based on the status data.

[0095] (3) Estimation method Next, we will explain the estimation method for estimating the lifespan of the current collector 1 of the current collector 10, that is, the estimation method used in the estimation system 1000, using Figure 8.

[0096] The estimation method described above includes a first acquisition step ST1, a second acquisition step ST2, and an estimation step ST3, as shown in Figure 8.

[0097] In the first acquisition step ST1, the estimation unit 201 receives and acquires the measurement results from the measurement unit 62 transmitted from the data processing device 71 via the external network NT1 (see Figure 1). Then, in the second acquisition step ST2, the estimation unit 201 receives and acquires the measurement results from the travel distance sensor 9 transmitted from the data processing device 71 via the external network NT1.

[0098] Subsequently, in estimation step ST3, the estimation unit 201 estimates the lifespan of the current collector 1 based on the measurement results of the measurement unit 62 acquired in the first acquisition step ST1 and the measurement results of the travel distance sensor 9 acquired in the second acquisition step ST2. Specifically, in estimation step ST3, the estimation unit 201 estimates the lifespan of the current collector 1 based on the measurement results of the measurement unit 62, which measures the distance D1 between the first wear confirmation line 21 and the covering member A12 (see Figures 5 and 6), and the measurement results of the travel distance sensor 9, which measures the travel distance W1 of the current collector 1.

[0099] Note that the flowchart in Figure 8 is merely one example of the estimation method described above, and the order of the processes may be changed as appropriate, or any of the processes may be omitted as appropriate. For example, the order of the first acquisition step ST1 and the second acquisition step ST2 may be reversed.

[0100] (4) Variations The above embodiments are merely one of many embodiments of this disclosure. The above embodiments can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of this disclosure are achieved. The following lists some modifications of the above embodiments. The modifications described below can be combined and applied as appropriate. In addition, in the following, components that are common or substantially common with the basic configuration of the estimation system 1000 of the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their illustration and description are omitted as appropriate.

[0101] (4-1) Experiment 1 The estimation unit 201 may estimate the lifetime of the current collector 1 based on the measurement results of the measurement unit 62, the measurement results of the distance sensor 9, and the measurement results of the state sensor 8. This will be explained in detail below.

[0102] First, the user runs the estimation system 1000 on a test basis to determine the reference proportionality coefficient α1, which is the decrease in current collector 1 per unit distance G1, under conditions (reference conditions) where the temperature of current collector 1, the pressure applied to current collector 1, and the electrical characteristics of current collector 1 (e.g., power) are all within reference ranges. In this case, the reference proportionality coefficient α1 is determined based on the measurement results of the measurement unit 62 and the measurement results of the travel distance sensor 9. The reference conditions are maintained by the user periodically checking the temperature of current collector 1, the pressure applied to current collector 1, and the electrical characteristics of current collector 1, and adjusting the current collector unit X1. The reference proportionality coefficient α1 is stored in the memory of the cloud server 200.

[0103] Furthermore, the user determines the dependence of the proportionality constant α on the temperature T of the electron collector 1. Specifically, the user determines how many times the proportionality constant α becomes compared to the reference proportionality constant α1 depending on the temperature T of the electron collector 1. In other words, the user determines the coefficient β(T) that depends on the temperature T in the equation α = β(T) × α1. Note that the coefficient β(T) may be determined based on the measurement results of the measurement unit 62 and the measurement results of the travel distance sensor 9 while the temperature of the electron collector 1 is changed outside the reference range, or it may be determined by simulation.

[0104] Similarly, the user determines the dependence of the proportionality constant α on the pressure P applied to the electron collector 1. Specifically, the user determines how many times the proportionality constant α becomes compared to the reference proportionality constant α1 due to the pressure P applied to the electron collector 1. In other words, the user determines the coefficient γ(P) that depends on the pressure P in the equation α = γ(P) × α1. Note that the coefficient γ(P) may be determined based on the measurement results of the measurement unit 62 and the measurement results of the travel distance sensor 9 while the pressure applied to the electron collector 1 is changed outside the reference range, or it may be determined by simulation.

[0105] Similarly, the user determines how many times the proportionality constant α is compared to the reference proportionality constant α1, depending on the power E of the current collector 1. That is, they determine the coefficient δ(E) in the equation α = δ(E) × α1, which depends on the power E. Note that the coefficient δ(E) may be determined based on the measurement results of the measurement unit 62 and the measurement results of the travel distance sensor 9 while the power E is varied outside the reference range, or it may be determined by simulation.

[0106] The user stores the coefficients β(T), γ(P), and δ(E) in the memory of the cloud server 200. Specifically, the user stores table data showing the relationship between coefficient β(T) and temperature T, table data showing the relationship between coefficient γ(P) and pressure P, and table data showing the relationship between coefficient δ(E) and power E in the memory of the cloud server 200.

[0107] After the test operation is complete, when the user operates the estimation system 1000 again, the estimation unit 201 calculates the proportionality constant α based on the reference proportionality constant α1, coefficients β(T), γ(P), δ(E), temperature T measured by the temperature sensor 81, pressure P measured by the pressure sensor 82, and power E measured by the electrical characteristic sensor 83. Here, the proportionality constant α is calculated by α = β(T) × γ(P) × δ(E) × α1. The estimation unit 201 then estimates the estimated lifetime Ls1 of the electron collector 1, which is the cumulative distance W1 traveled when the decrease amount G1 reaches a predetermined length L1, from the approximation formula G1 = α × W1. The estimation unit 201 also estimates the estimated remaining lifetime Ls2 of the electron collector 1 by subtracting the latest cumulative distance W1 traveled, which is the travel distance W10, from the estimated lifetime Ls1.

[0108] With the above configuration, the estimation unit 201 can estimate the lifetime of the current collector 1 with greater accuracy.

[0109] (4-2) Modification 2 As shown in Figure 9, the current collector 10 may further include a notification device 72 connected to the data processing device 71.

[0110] The data processing device 71 may output an analog signal to the notification device 72 when the distance D1 between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the first wear confirmation line 21 reaches a predetermined distance based on the measurement results of the measurement unit 62. Here, the predetermined distance is the distance D1 when the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 has worn down by a predetermined length L1 from its new state.

[0111] The notification device 72 operates using an analog signal output from the data processing device 71. The notification device 72 may be, for example, a lamp or a speaker. If the notification device 72 is a lamp, the lamp will light up using the analog signal output from the data processing device 71. If the notification device 72 is a speaker, the speaker will output sound using the analog signal output from the data processing device 71. This allows the user to recognize that the current collector 1 or the current collector X1 needs to be replaced.

[0112] (4-3) Modification 3 In the above-described embodiment, the imaging device 610 (imaging unit 61) includes the first wear confirmation line 21 and at least a portion of the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 in its imaging range, and the measuring device 620 measures the distance D1 between the covering member A12 and the first wear confirmation line 21 using the image captured by the imaging device 610. However, when viewed from above, if the second wear confirmation line 12 of the current collector 1 is not covered by the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1, that is, if the second wear confirmation line 12 is located behind the rear end surface of the covering member A12 (not shown), the imaging device 610 may include the second wear confirmation line 12 and at least a portion of the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 in its imaging range, and the measuring device 620 may measure the distance between the covering member A12 and the second wear confirmation line 12 using the image captured by the imaging device 610. That is, in modified example 3, the second wear confirmation line 12 corresponds to the wear confirmation line of this disclosure.

[0113] Here, in a current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is worn, the distance between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the second wear confirmation line 12 is shorter than the distance in a current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is not worn. In other words, the distance between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the second wear confirmation line 12 decreases as the current collector 1 wears down. Therefore, when the measurement result of the measurement unit 62 is notified by the notification unit 7, the user of the current collector 10 can check the amount of wear on the current collector 1 while the current collector 1 is still in contact with the conductor A11, and can determine whether or not the current collector 1 needs to be replaced. This improves convenience.

[0114] (4-4) Modification 4 In the embodiment described above, the imaging device 610 (imaging unit 61) is fixed to the fixed member 5. However, the imaging device 610 may be fixed to the mobile equipment. In this case, the imaging device 610 is fixed to the mobile equipment such that the imaging range includes the first wear confirmation line 21 and at least a portion of the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1.

[0115] (4-4) Other variations The embodiments described above are merely one of many embodiments of this disclosure. The embodiments described above can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of this disclosure are achieved. Furthermore, functions similar to those of the estimation system 1000 according to the embodiments described above may be embodied in a computer program, or in a non-temporary recording medium on which the program is recorded. One embodiment of the program is a program that causes a computer system to execute the estimation method of the estimation system 1000 in the embodiments described above.

[0116] The estimated system 1000 in this disclosure includes a computer system in the data processing device 71 (notification unit 7), etc. The computer system mainly consists of a processor and memory as hardware. The function of the notification unit 7 in this disclosure is realized by the processor executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunication line, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive that can be read by the computer system. The processor of the computer system consists of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or large-scale integrated circuits (LSIs). The integrated circuits such as ICs or LSIs referred to here are named differently depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, VLSIs (Very Large Scale Integration), or ULSIs (Ultra Large Scale Integration). Furthermore, FPGAs, which are programmed after the manufacture of the LSI, or logic devices that can reconfigure the junction relationships inside the LSI or reconfigure the circuit compartments inside the LSI, can also be used as processors. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated onto a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips may be integrated onto a single device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller also consists of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits or large-scale integrated circuits.

[0117] In the current collector 10 of the above-described embodiment, the first wear confirmation line 21 is provided in the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 along the direction of movement in which the current collector 1 moves while the contact surface 11 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. However, the first wear confirmation line 21 only needs to be provided in at least a portion of the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 in the direction of movement in which the current collector 1 moves while the contact surface 11 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. For example, the first wear confirmation line 21 may be provided only at both ends of the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 in the direction of movement.

[0118] The current collector 10 (current collection system 100) of the above-described embodiment has one current collection unit X1, but it may have a plurality (for example, four) of current collection units X1. In this case, for example, the four current collection units X1 are arranged along the vertical direction, and each of the four current collection units X1 is attached to each of the four trolley wires A1. Furthermore, each of the four current collection units X1 is configured to be movable relative to each of the four trolley wires A1.

[0119] In the current collector 10 of the above-described embodiment, the first wear confirmation line 21 is paint printed on the holding portion 20 of the holder 2. However, the first wear confirmation line 21 may be convex in shape and provided on the holding portion 20 of the holder 2. Alternatively, the first wear confirmation line 21 may be concave in shape and provided on the holding portion 20 of the holder 2.

[0120] In the embodiment described above, the first wear confirmation line 21 is paint printed on the holding portion 20 of the holder 2. However, the first wear confirmation line 21 may be tape attached to the holding portion 20 of the holder 2.

[0121] In the embodiment described above, the first wear confirmation line 21 is provided on two opposing sides (upper and lower surfaces) of the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 along the vertical direction. However, the first wear confirmation line 21 only needs to be provided on at least one of the two opposing sides of the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 along the vertical direction.

[0122] (summary) The current collector (10, 10a) of the first embodiment is a current collector that transmits power from a trolley wire (A1) having a conductor (A11) and a covering member (A12) covering a part of the conductor (A11) to a mobile device. The current collector (10, 10a) of the first embodiment comprises a current collector (1), a holder (2), wear confirmation lines (12, 21), a connecting member (3), a fixing member (5), an imaging unit (61), a measuring unit (62), and a notification unit (7). The current collector (1) has a contact surface (11) that contacts the conductor (A11), and is movable while the contact surface (11) is in contact with the conductor (A11). The holder (2) holds the current collector (1). The wear confirmation lines (12, 21) are provided on the current collector (1) or the holder (2) parallel to the contact surface (11). The connecting member (3) supports the holder (2). The fixing member (5) is connected to the connecting member (3) and fixed to the mobile device. The imaging unit (61) is fixed to the fixing member (5) or the mobile device and includes at least a portion of the wear confirmation lines (12, 21) and the covering member (A12) within its imaging range. The measuring unit (62) measures the distance (D1) between the covering member (A12) and the wear confirmation lines (12, 21) using the image captured by the imaging unit (61). The notification unit (7) notifies the measurement result of the measuring unit (62).

[0123] According to this embodiment, the user can check the amount of wear on the current collector (1) while the current collector (1) is in contact with the conductor (A11), and can determine whether or not the current collector (1) needs to be replaced. This improves convenience.

[0124] In the current collector (10, 10a) of the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the imaging unit (61) images at least one of the distribution state of wear particles generated by the wear of the current collector (1) and the state of conductor burrs generated on the conductor (A11).

[0125] According to this embodiment, the user can determine whether or not an abnormality has occurred based on the image captured by the imaging unit (61).

[0126] The estimation system (1000) of the third embodiment comprises a current collector (10, 10a) of the first or second embodiment, a travel distance sensor (9) for measuring the travel distance (W1) of the current collector (1), and an estimation unit (201) for estimating the lifespan of the current collector (1) based on the measurement result of the measurement unit (62) and the measurement result of the travel distance sensor (9).

[0127] According to this embodiment, the user can determine whether or not to replace the current collector (1) based on the lifespan of the current collector (1) estimated by the estimation unit (201). In addition, the user can grasp the approximate timing for replacing the current collector (1) based on the lifespan of the current collector (1) estimated by the estimation unit (201).

[0128] The estimation system (1000) of the fourth embodiment further comprises a state sensor (8) attached to the current collector (10, 10a) and detecting a physical quantity indicating the state of the current collector (1). The estimation unit (201) estimates the lifetime of the current collector (1) based on the measurement results of the measurement unit (62), the measurement results of the distance traveled sensor (9), and the measurement results of the state sensor (8).

[0129] According to this embodiment, the estimation unit (201) can estimate the lifetime of the current collector (1) with greater accuracy.

[0130] In the estimation system (1000) of the fifth embodiment, in the fourth embodiment, the state sensor (8) includes at least one of a temperature sensor (81) for measuring the temperature of the current collector (1), a pressure sensor (82) for measuring the pressure applied to the current collector (1), and an electrical characteristic sensor (83) for measuring the electrical characteristics of the current collector (1).

[0131] According to this embodiment, the estimation unit (201) can estimate the lifetime of the current collector (1) with greater accuracy.

[0132] In the sixth embodiment of the estimation system (1000), the estimation unit (201) is implemented by cloud computing in any of the third to fifth embodiments.

[0133] According to this embodiment, compared to the case where the estimation unit (201) is implemented by an on-premises server, server operation and management are unnecessary, and costs can be reduced.

[0134] The seventh embodiment of the estimation method is an estimation method for estimating the lifespan of a current collector (1) provided in a current collector (10, 10a) of the first or second embodiment. The seventh embodiment of the estimation method includes an estimation step (ST3) for estimating the lifespan of the current collector (1) based on the measurement result of the measuring unit (62) and the measurement result of the travel distance sensor (9) that measures the travel distance (W1) of the current collector (1).

[0135] According to this embodiment, the user can check the amount of wear on the current collector (1) while the current collector (1) is in contact with the conductor (A11), and can determine whether or not the current collector (1) needs to be replaced. This improves convenience.

[0136] The program of the eighth embodiment causes one or more processors to execute the estimation method of the seventh embodiment.

[0137] According to this embodiment, the user can check the amount of wear on the current collector (1) while the current collector (1) is in contact with the conductor (A11), and can determine whether or not the current collector (1) needs to be replaced. This improves convenience.

[0138] The current collection system (100) of the ninth embodiment comprises a current collector (10, 10a) of the first or second embodiment and a trolley wire (A1).

[0139] According to this embodiment, the user can check the amount of wear on the current collector (1) while the current collector (1) is in contact with the conductor (A11), and can determine whether or not the current collector (1) needs to be replaced. This improves convenience. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0140] 1 Electronic collector 2 holders 3 Connecting Members 5 Fixing members 7 Notification section 8. State Sensor 9. Distance Sensor 10, 10a current collector 11 Contact surface 12. Second wear inspection line (wear inspection line) 21. First wear confirmation line (wear confirmation line) 61 Imaging Unit 62 Measuring part 81 Temperature sensor 82 Pressure Sensor 83 Electrical Characteristics Sensor 100 Current collection system 201 Estimation Department 1000 Estimation Systems A1 Trolley Line A11 Conductor A12 Covering member D1 Distance ST3 Estimation Step W1 Travel distance

Claims

1. A current collector that transmits power from a trolley wire having a conductor and a covering member covering a part of the conductor to a mobile device, An electron collector having a contact surface that contacts the conductor, and which is movable while the contact surface is in contact with the conductor, The holder that holds the current collector, A wear confirmation line provided parallel to the contact surface in the current collector or the holder, A connecting member that supports the holder, A fixing member is connected to the aforementioned connecting member and is fixed to the aforementioned mobile device, An imaging unit fixed to the aforementioned fixed member or the aforementioned mobile device, the imaging range including the wear confirmation line and at least a portion of the covering member, A measuring unit measures the distance between the covering member and the wear confirmation line using the image captured by the imaging unit, The system includes a notification unit that notifies the measurement results of the measurement unit, Current collector.

2. The imaging unit is The distribution state of wear particles generated by the wear of the aforementioned current collector, The state of the conductor burrs generated in the conductor and at least one of the following are imaged: The current collector according to claim 1.

3. A current collector according to claim 1 or 2, A distance sensor for measuring the distance traveled by the current collector, The system includes an estimation unit that estimates the lifetime of the current collector based on the measurement results of the measurement unit and the measurement results of the travel distance sensor. Estimation system.

4. The current collector is further equipped with a state sensor that detects a physical quantity indicating the state of the current collector, The estimation unit estimates the lifetime of the current collector based on the measurement results of the measurement unit, the measurement results of the distance sensor, and the measurement results of the state sensor. The estimation system according to claim 3.

5. The state sensor includes at least one of the following: a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the current collector, a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure applied to the current collector, and an electrical characteristic sensor for measuring the electrical characteristics of the current collector. The estimation system according to claim 4.

6. The estimation unit is realized by cloud computing. The estimation system according to claim 3.

7. A method for estimating the lifespan of the current collector in the current collector according to claim 1 or 2, The method includes an estimation step of estimating the lifetime of the current collector based on the measurement results of the measuring unit and the measurement results of the distance sensor that measures the distance traveled by the current collector. Estimation method.

8. A program for causing one or more processors to execute the estimation method described in claim 7.

9. A current collector according to claim 1 or 2, The trolley wire is provided, Current collection system.

Images