Current collector and current collection system
The current collector device addresses the challenge of wear confirmation by exposing a wear line from the covering member, allowing easy visual inspection while attached, thus ensuring timely maintenance.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- PANASONIC HOLDINGS CORP
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-21
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-02
AI Technical Summary
Existing current collector devices face challenges in easily confirming the degree of wear due to the wear confirmation line being covered by the trolley wire, necessitating removal of the device for inspection.
A current collector device with a holder that includes a wear confirmation line exposed from the covering member when in contact with the conductor, allowing visual inspection of wear without detachment.
Enables easy and accurate confirmation of wear without detaching the current collector from the trolley wire, facilitating timely maintenance.
Smart Images

Figure 2026090136000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a current collector device and a current collection system. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a current collector device and a current collection system that transmit electric power from a trolley wire to a moving device.
Background Art
[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a current collector device that collects current from a trolley wire provided with a conductor in a guide groove. The current collector device includes a mounting member and a current collector. The mounting member is attached to the moving device. The current collector moves along the guide groove and makes sliding contact with the conductor.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] In the above-described current collector device, a wear confirmation line for confirming the degree of wear of the current collector may be provided on the current collector. However, when the current collector is in contact with the conductor of the trolley wire, the wear confirmation line may be covered by the trolley wire. In this case, in order to confirm the wear confirmation line, it is necessary to remove the current collector device from the trolley wire, and there is a problem that the degree of wear of the current collector cannot be easily confirmed.
[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a current collector device and a current collection system that can easily confirm the degree of wear of the current collector.
Means for Solving the Problems
[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 and a holder. The current collector has a contact surface that contacts the conductor. The holder holds the current collector. The holder is provided with a wear confirmation line parallel to the contact surface. The wear confirmation line is exposed from the covering member when the contact surface is in contact with the conductor.
[0007] A current collector according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a current collector that transmits power to a mobile device from each of a plurality of trolley wires having a conductor and a covering member covering a portion of the conductor. The current collector comprises a plurality of current collectors and a plurality of holders. Each of the plurality of current collectors has a contact surface that contacts the conductor of a corresponding trolley wire among the plurality of trolley wires. Each of the plurality of holders holds a corresponding current collector among the plurality of current collectors. At least one of the plurality of holders is provided with a wear confirmation line parallel to the contact surface. The wear confirmation line is exposed from the covering member when the contact surface is in contact with the conductor.
[0008] A current collection system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises the current collector and the trolley wire. [Effects of the Invention]
[0009] According to this disclosure, there is an advantage in that the degree of wear of the current collector can be easily confirmed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a plan view of the main parts of the current collection system according to Embodiment 1, in a state where the current collector is not worn. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a plan view of the main components of the same current collection system in a state where the current collector is worn. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a plan view of the same current collector. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a plan view of the main components of the current collection system according to the first modified example described above, in a state where the current collector is not worn. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a plan view of the main components of the current collection system according to the second modified example described above, in a state where the current collector is not worn. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the current collector according to the third modified example shown above. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the current collector according to the fourth modified example shown above. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a bottom view of the current collector according to Embodiment 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0011] 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.
[0012] (1) Embodiment 1 (1-1) Overview The following describes the outline of the current collector 10 and current collector system 100 according to Embodiment 1 with reference to Figures 1 and 2.
[0013] The current collector 10 according to Embodiment 1 is attached to a mobile device (not shown). The mobile device is a device that moves using electricity, for example, a self-propelled trolley or hoist. The mobile device receives power from a trolley wire A1 (see Figures 1 and 2) installed on rails. The mobile device moves along the rails using the power thus obtained as a power source. The trolley wire A1 has a conductor A11 and a covering member A12 that covers a part of the conductor A11.
[0014] The current collector 10 according to Embodiment 1 transmits power from a trolley wire A1 to a mobile device. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the current collector 10 comprises a current collector 1 and a holder 2. The current collector 1 has a contact surface 11 that contacts the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. The holder 2 holds the current collector 1. The holder 2 is provided with a wear confirmation line 21 parallel to the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1. The wear confirmation line 21 is exposed from the covering member A12 when the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. In this disclosure, "exposed from the covering member A12" means not covered by the covering member A12.
[0015] From the above, in the current collector 10 of Embodiment 1, the user (for example, a manager, worker, etc.) can visually inspect the wear confirmation line 21 when the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, that is, when the current collector 1 is attached to the trolley wire A1. The user can check the degree of wear of the current collector 1 by checking how much shorter the distance D1 between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the wear confirmation line 21 is in the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is worn (see Figure 2) is compared to the above distance D1 in the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is not worn (see Figure 1). Therefore, the user can check the degree of wear of the current collector 1 when the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, that is, when the current collector 1 is attached to the trolley wire A1. In short, the user can check the degree of wear of the current collector 1 without removing the current collector 10 from the trolley wire A1. As a result, the current collector 10 of Embodiment 1 has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector 1 can be easily checked.
[0016] Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the power collection system 100 according to Embodiment 1 includes a power collection device 10 and a trolley wire A1. In the power collection system 100 of Embodiment 1, the user can visually recognize the wear confirmation line 21 in a state where the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, that is, in a state where the current collector 1 is attached to the trolley wire A1. Therefore, the power collection system 100 of Embodiment 1 has an advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector 1 can be easily confirmed.
[0017] (1-2) Detailed Configuration Next, the detailed configurations of the power collection system 100 and the power collection device 10 according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.
[0018] In the following description, unless otherwise specified, in each figure, the X-axis direction is defined as the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction is defined as the front-back direction, and the Z-axis direction, which is perpendicular to each of the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, is defined as the up-down direction. Further, the positive direction of the X-axis is defined as the left side, the positive direction of the Y-axis is defined as the front side, and the positive direction of the Z-axis is defined as the upper side. However, these directions are merely examples and are not intended to limit the direction during the use of the power collection device 10. For example, the power collection device 10 may be used such that the positive direction of the Y-axis is the upper side. Also, the arrows indicating the directions in the drawings are merely for explanation and do not have any physical entity.
[0019] (1-2-1) Power Collection System As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the power collection system 100 of Embodiment 1 includes a power collection device 10 and a trolley wire A1. The power collection system 100 is also referred to as, for example, a trolley system.
[0020] (1-2-2) Trolley Wire As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the trolley wire A1 has a conductor A11 and a covering member A12 that covers a part of the conductor A11.
[0021] Conductor A11 functions as a power supply unit that supplies power to mobile equipment via the current collector 10. Conductor A11 is rod-shaped and extends along the X-axis direction. That is, the longitudinal direction of conductor A11 is along the X-axis direction. Conductor A11 is formed of, for example, a metallic material (e.g., copper).
[0022] The covering member A12 covers a portion of the conductor A11 such that a portion of the conductor A11's side surface (in this disclosure, the side surface on the negative side of the Y-axis of the conductor A11) is exposed. The covering member A12 is a long member with a substantially U-shaped cross-section that opens laterally (towards the negative side of the Y-axis). In other words, the covering member A12 is a member that opens laterally (towards the rear). The covering member A12 is formed of, for example, an insulating material (for example, an electrically insulating synthetic resin). The covering member A12 is a so-called insulating sheath.
[0023] (1-2-3) Current collector The current collector 10 transmits power from the trolley wire A1 to the mobile equipment. As shown in Figure 3, the current collector 10 of Embodiment 1 comprises a plurality of current collectors 1 (2 in Embodiment 1), a plurality of holders 2 (2 in Embodiment 1), a plurality of connecting members 3 (2 in Embodiment 1), a plurality of support members 4 (2 in Embodiment 1), a fixing member 5, and a plurality of cables 6 (2 in Embodiment 1).
[0024] (electronic collector) Each of the multiple current collectors 1 is a component that contacts the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. That is, each of the multiple current collectors 1 has a contact surface 11 that contacts the conductor A11. Each of the multiple current collectors 1 moves along the longitudinal direction of the trolley wire A1 (the X-axis direction shown in Figures 1 and 2) with its contact surface 11 in contact with the conductor A11. In other words, each of the multiple current collectors 1 moves along the longitudinal direction of the trolley wire A1 and slides against the conductor A11. In Embodiment 1, since the current collector 10 transmits power from one trolley wire A1 to the moving equipment, each of the multiple current collectors 1 contacts the conductor A11 of the same trolley wire A1. Also, since the configuration of the multiple current collectors 1 is common, the following explanation will focus on one current collector 1.
[0025] The current collector 1 is a conductor. The current collector 1 is made of, for example, a metallic material. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the shape of the current collector 1 is a long trapezoid in the X-axis direction when viewed from the positive side of the Z-axis. That is, the longitudinal direction of the current collector 1 is along the X-axis direction. The contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 that contacts the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1 is the side surface (front) of the current collector 1 on the positive side of the Y-axis. That is, 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.
[0026] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, 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.
[0027] 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 negative side (rear side) of the Y-axis on 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.
[0028] 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.
[0029] (Holder) Each of the multiple holders 2 corresponds one-to-one with one of the multiple electron collectors 1. Each of the multiple holders 2 holds a corresponding electron collector 1 from among the multiple electron collectors 1. Each of the multiple holders 2 is aligned with the corresponding electron collector 1 in the Y-axis direction (front-to-back direction). Since the configuration of the multiple holders 2 is common, the following explanation will focus on one holder 2.
[0030] The holder 2 has a holding portion 20, a connector portion 28, and a connecting portion 29.
[0031] The holding portion 20 is a member that holds a corresponding current collector 1 among a plurality of current collectors 1. The holding portion 20 has electrical insulating properties. The holding portion 20 is formed from, for example, synthetic resin. The holding portion 20 covers a part of the corresponding current collector 1 (the negative side of the Y-axis). Therefore, the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is exposed to the outside of the corresponding holding portion 20. The holding portion 20 is a plate member with a thickness direction along the Z-axis direction and a length in the X-axis direction.
[0032] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 is provided with a first wear confirmation line 21 parallel to the contact surface 11. The first wear confirmation line 21 corresponds to the wear confirmation line of this 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 Z-axis direction.
[0033] 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 2) compared to the above distance D1 in a current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is not worn (see Figure 1). As a result, there is an advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector 1 can be checked more easily.
[0034] The first wear confirmation line 21 of Embodiment 1 is provided in the holding portion 20 of the holder 2, extending along the direction of movement (the X-axis direction shown in Figures 1 and 2) 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 on 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.
[0035] The connector portion 28 is formed integrally with the retaining portion 20. The connector portion 28 is configured to connect to one of the two cables 6. Each of the multiple cables 6 is electrically connected to a mobile device.
[0036] 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, a synthetic resin. The outer casing 281 protrudes from the holding portion 20. More specifically, the outer casing 281 protrudes from the holding portion 20 in the negative direction of the Y-axis. 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 6 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, the power obtained by the current collector 1 is supplied to the mobile device via the cable 6.
[0037] The connecting portion 29 is connected to the holding portion 20. More specifically, the shaft member 91 is passed through through holes provided in both the connecting portion 29 and the holding portion 20, thereby connecting the connecting portion 29 to the holding portion 20. The holding portion 20 is rotatable together with the current collector 1 around the connection point (shaft member 91) with the connecting portion 29.
[0038] (Connection part) Each of the multiple connecting members 3 corresponds one-to-one with one of the multiple holders 2. Each of the multiple connecting members 3 connects the corresponding holder 2 from among the multiple holders 2 to the fixing member 5. Since the configuration of the multiple connecting members 3 is common, the following explanation will focus on one connecting member 3.
[0039] As shown in Figure 3, the connecting member 3 has a pair of connecting arms 31 and 32 and a mounting portion 33. The connecting arms 31 and 32 are arranged side by side along the Y-axis.
[0040] Mounting portions 33 are provided at the first ends (outer ends) of the connecting arms 31 and 32. The connecting portion 29 of the corresponding holder 2 is attached to the mounting portion 33. The mounting portion 33 has a mounting hole, and the connecting portion 29 of the corresponding holder 2 is attached to the mounting portion 33 by inserting it into the mounting hole. The second ends (inner ends) of the connecting arms 31 and 32 are rotatably connected to the fixing member 5 around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the connecting arms 31 and 32.
[0041] (Support member) Each of the multiple support members 4 corresponds one-to-one with one of the multiple connecting members 3. Each of the multiple support members 4 supports the second end of the pair of connecting arms 31 and 32 on the corresponding connecting member 3. Since the configuration of the multiple support members 4 is common, the following explanation will focus on one support member 4.
[0042] The support member 4 has a pair of support pieces 41 arranged opposite to each other along the Z-axis direction, and a connecting piece 42 connecting the pair of support pieces 41. The pair of support pieces 41 clamp the second ends of a pair of connecting arms 31 and 32 in the corresponding connecting member 3 in the Z-axis direction. This prevents the pair of connecting arms 31 and 32 from moving in the Z-axis direction. As a result, there is an advantage in that uneven wear of the electron collector 1 can be suppressed.
[0043] (Fixing member) The fixing member 5 is fixed to the mobile device. As shown in Figure 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 of the main body 50 (the negative side of the Y-axis) 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.
[0044] (1-3) Effects The current collector 10 according to Embodiment 1 comprises a current collector 1 and a holder 2. The current collector 1 has a contact surface 11 that contacts the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. The holder 2 holds the current collector 1. The holder 2 is provided with a first wear confirmation line 21 parallel to the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1. The first wear confirmation line 21 is exposed from the covering member A12 when the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. As a result, the user can visually check the first wear confirmation line 21 when the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, that is, when the current collector 1 is attached to the trolley wire A1. The user can check the degree of wear of the current collector 1 by checking 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 the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is worn (see Figure 2), compared to the same distance D1 in the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is not worn (see Figure 1). Therefore, the user can check the degree of wear of the current collector 1 while the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, that is, while the current collector 1 is attached to the trolley wire A1. In short, the user can check the degree of wear of the current collector 1 without removing the current collector 10 from the trolley wire A1. As a result, the current collector 10 of Embodiment 1 has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector 1 can be easily checked.
[0045] In the current collector 10 according to Embodiment 1, the first wear confirmation line 21 is provided on the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 in a visible color. This makes it easier for the user to 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 the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is worn compared to the same distance D1 in the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is not worn. As a result, there is an advantage in that the degree of wear of the current collector 1 can be checked more easily.
[0046] In the current collector 10 according to Embodiment 1, 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. This 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 with the current collector 1 removed from the trolley wire A1.
[0047] The current collection system 100 according to Embodiment 1 comprises a current collector 10 and a trolley wire A1. This allows the user to visually inspect the wear confirmation line 21 when the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, that is, when the current collector 1 is attached to the trolley wire A1. For this reason, the current collection system 100 of Embodiment 1 has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector 1 can be easily confirmed.
[0048] (1-4) Modifications of Embodiment 1 Embodiment 1 described above is merely one of many embodiments of this disclosure. Embodiment 1 described above can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as it achieves the objectives of this disclosure.
[0049] The following lists some modifications of the above-described embodiment. The modifications described below can be combined and applied as appropriate.
[0050] (1-4-1) First Variation In the current collector 10 of Embodiment 1 described above, the holding portion 20 of the holder 2 is provided with one first wear confirmation line 21 parallel to the contact surface 11. However, in the current collector 10A of the first modified embodiment of Embodiment 1 shown in Figure 4, the holding portion 20A of the holder 2A is provided with multiple first wear confirmation lines 21A (two in the illustrated example), and the multiple first wear confirmation lines 21A are provided parallel to each other. That is, in the current collector 10A of the first modified embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the upper first wear confirmation line 211A and the lower first wear confirmation line 212A among the multiple first wear confirmation lines 21A are provided parallel to each other. With this configuration, the user can first check the degree of wear of the current collector 1 by checking how much shorter the distance D2 between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the upper first wear confirmation line 211A is in the current collector 10A where the current collector 1 is worn is compared to the same distance D2 in the current collector 10A where the current collector 1 is not worn. Then, as the degree of wear of the current collector 1 increases (i.e., the wear of the current collector 1 progresses), the upper first wear confirmation line 211A is covered by the covering member A12. In this case, the user can check the degree of wear of the current collector 1 by checking how much shorter the distance D3 between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the lower first wear confirmation line 212A is in the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is worn is compared to the same distance D3 in the current collector 10 where the current collector 1 is not worn. As a result, there is an advantage in that the degree of wear of the current collector 1 can be checked in stages.
[0051] Each of the multiple first wear confirmation lines 21A is parallel to the contact surface 11. The multiple first wear confirmation lines 21A are arranged along the Y-axis direction (front-to-back direction). Each of the multiple first wear confirmation lines 21A is provided in the holding portion 20A of the holder 2A, along the direction of movement (X-axis direction shown in Figure 4) 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, each of the multiple first wear confirmation lines 21A is provided in the holding portion 20A of the holder 2A, along the longitudinal direction of the holding portion 20A of the holder 2A.
[0052] Each of the multiple first wear confirmation lines 21A is provided on the holding portion 20A of the holder 2A in a visible color. The multiple first wear confirmation lines 21A are provided in different colors from each other. For example, if the holding portion 20A is black, the upper first wear confirmation line 211A is provided in yellow, and the first wear confirmation line 212A is provided in red. The above configuration has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector 1 can be checked in stages more easily.
[0053] (1-4-2) Second variation In the current collector 10 of Embodiment 1 described above, the first wear confirmation line 21 is provided in the holding portion 20 of the holder 2, extending 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, in the current collector 10B, a second modified example of Embodiment 1 shown in Figure 5, the first wear confirmation line 21B is provided in a part of the holding portion 20B of the holder 2B in the direction of movement (the X-axis direction shown in Figure 5) in which the current collector 1 moves while the contact surface 11 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. In other words, the first wear confirmation line 21B only needs to be provided in at least a part of the holding portion 20B of the holder 2B 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. This configuration has the advantage that the first wear confirmation line 21B can be easily provided.
[0054] In the second modified current collector 10B, as shown in Figure 5, the first wear confirmation line 21B is provided only at both ends of the holding portion 20B of the holder 2B 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. That is, the first wear confirmation line 21B is provided at both ends of the holding portion 20B of the holder 2B in the longitudinal direction. In short, in the second modified current collector 10B, the first end (left end) of the holding portion 20B of the holder 2B is provided with a first wear confirmation line 211B parallel to the contact surface 11. Similarly, in the first modified current collector 10B of Embodiment 1, the second end (right end) of the holding portion 20B of the holder 2B is provided with a first wear confirmation line 212B parallel to the contact surface 11. The first wear confirmation line 211B and the first wear confirmation line 212B are aligned along the direction of movement of the current collector 1 while the contact surface 11 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1.
[0055] In the illustrated example shown in Figure 5, the first wear confirmation line 21B is provided only at both ends in the direction of movement of the holding portion 20B of the holder 2B, but it is sufficient if it is provided at at least both ends in the direction of movement. This configuration has the advantage that the user can confirm whether the current collector 1 is unevenly worn, such that the distance D4 between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the first wear confirmation line 211B is different from the distance D5 between the covering member A12 of the trolley wire A1 and the first wear confirmation line 212B. In this disclosure, "uneven wear" means that the current collector 1 is worn unevenly in a specific area.
[0056] (1-4-3) Third variation In the current collector 10 of Embodiment 1 described above, the first wear confirmation line 21 is paint printed on the holding portion 20 of the holder 2. However, in the current collector 10C of the third modification of Embodiment 1 shown in Figure 6, the first wear confirmation line 21C is a protrusion provided on the holding portion 20C of the holder 2C. That is, in the current collector 10C of the third modification of Embodiment 1, the first wear confirmation line 21C is a protruding shape provided on the holding portion 20C of the holder 2C. This configuration has the advantage of suppressing the difficulty in confirming the first wear confirmation line 21C due to aging deterioration and wear.
[0057] The first wear confirmation line 21C is provided on the positive side (top surface) of the Z-axis in the holding portion 20C of the holder 2C. In the third modified example, the first wear confirmation line 21C protrudes in a direction away from the positive side of the Z-axis (the positive direction of the Z-axis). The first wear confirmation line 21C is provided on the holding portion 20C of the holder 2C along the direction of movement (the X-axis direction shown in Figure 6) 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, in the third modified example, the first wear confirmation line 21C is provided on the longitudinal direction of the holding portion 20C of the holder 2C. In addition, in the third modified example, the first wear confirmation line 21C may be provided on the negative side (bottom surface) of the Z-axis in the holding portion 20C of the holder 2C, or on two opposing sides (top surface and bottom surface) along the Z-axis direction.
[0058] (1-4-4) Fourth variation In the current collector 10 of Embodiment 1 described above, the first wear confirmation line 21 is paint printed on the holding portion 20 of the holder 2. However, in the current collector 10D of the fourth modification of Embodiment 1 shown in Figure 7, the first wear confirmation line 21D is a recess provided in the holding portion 20D of the holder 2D. That is, in the current collector 10D of the fourth modification of Embodiment 1, the first wear confirmation line 21D is a recessed shape provided in the holding portion 20D of the holder 2D. This configuration has the advantage of suppressing the difficulty in confirming the first wear confirmation line 21D due to aging deterioration and wear.
[0059] In the fourth modified example, the first wear confirmation line 21D is provided on the positive side (top surface) of the Z-axis in the holding portion 20D of the holder 2D. In the fourth modified example, the first wear confirmation line 21D is provided in the direction of movement (X-axis direction shown in Figure 7) of the current collector 1 as it moves while the contact surface 11 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1. That is, in the fourth modified example, the first wear confirmation line 21D is provided in the longitudinal direction of the holding portion 20D of the holder 2D. In addition, the first wear confirmation line 21D in the fourth modified example may be provided on the negative side (bottom surface) of the Z-axis in the holding portion 20D of the holder 2D, or on two opposing sides (top surface and bottom surface) along the Z-axis direction.
[0060] (1-4-5) Other variations The following lists other modifications of the embodiments described above.
[0061] In the above-described embodiment 1, 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.
[0062] In the above-described 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 Z-axis 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 Z-axis direction.
[0063] (2) Embodiment 2 (2-1) Overview The following outline of the current collector 10E and current collection system 100 according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Figure 8.
[0064] The current collector 10E according to Embodiment 2 transmits power to a mobile device from each of a plurality of trolley wires A1. As shown in Figure 8, the current collector 10E comprises a plurality of current collectors 1E and a plurality of holders 2E. Each of the plurality of current collectors 1E has a contact surface 11 that contacts the conductor A11 of the corresponding trolley wire A1. Each of the plurality of holders 2E holds a corresponding current collector 1E. At least one of the plurality of holders 2E is provided with a wear confirmation line 21E parallel to the contact surface 11 of the corresponding current collector 1E. The wear confirmation line 21E is exposed from the covering member A12 of the corresponding trolley wire A1 when the contact surface 11 of the corresponding current collector 1E is in contact with the conductor A11 of the corresponding trolley wire A1.
[0065] As described above, in the current collector 10E of Embodiment 2, the user can visually inspect the wear confirmation line 21E when the contact surface 11 of each of the multiple current collectors 1E is in contact with the corresponding conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, that is, when each of the multiple current collectors 1E is attached to the trolley wire A1. For this reason, the current collector 10E of Embodiment 2 has the advantage that the degree of wear of at least one of the multiple current collectors 1E can be easily confirmed.
[0066] Furthermore, the current collection system 100 according to Embodiment 2 comprises a current collector 10E and a trolley wire A1. In the current collection system 100 of Embodiment 2, the user can visually inspect the wear confirmation line 21E when the contact surface 11 of each of the multiple current collectors 1E is in contact with the corresponding conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, that is, when each of the multiple current collectors 1E is attached to the trolley wire A1. For this reason, the current collection system 100 of Embodiment 2 has the advantage that the degree of wear of at least one of the multiple current collectors 1E can be easily confirmed.
[0067] (2-2) Detailed configuration Next, the detailed configuration of the current collector 10E according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Figure 8. Components similar to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted. The detailed configuration of the current collector system 100 according to Embodiment 2 is the same as the detailed configuration of the current collector system 100 according to Embodiment 1, so its description is omitted.
[0068] (2-2-1) Current collector The current collector 10E transmits power to the mobile equipment from each of the multiple trolley wires A1. The current collector 10E of Embodiment 2, as shown in Figure 8, comprises multiple (four in Embodiment 2) current collectors 1E, multiple (four in Embodiment 2) holders 2E, a connecting member 3, a support member 4, a fixing member 5, and multiple (four in Embodiment 2) cables 6. Note that in Figure 8, only the main part of the right side of the current collector 10E is shown, so the support member 4 and the fixing member 5 are not shown. Also, the four cables 6 are omitted in Figure 8.
[0069] (electronic collector) Each of the multiple current collectors 1E corresponds one-to-one with one of the multiple trolley wires A1. Each of the multiple current collectors 1E is a component that contacts the conductor A11 of the corresponding trolley wire A1. In other words, each of the multiple current collectors 1E has a contact surface 11 that contacts the conductor A11 of the corresponding trolley wire A1. Each of the multiple current collectors 1E moves along the longitudinal direction of the trolley wire A1 (the X-axis direction shown in Figure 8) with its contact surface 11 in contact with the conductor A11. That is, each of the multiple current collectors 1E moves along the longitudinal direction of the corresponding trolley wire A1 and slides against the conductor A11. Unlike the current collector 1 of Embodiment 1, each of the multiple current collectors 1E contacts the conductor A11 of a different trolley wire A1. Note that the configuration of each of the multiple current collectors 1E is the same as the configuration of the current collector 1 of Embodiment 1, so a description is omitted.
[0070] (Holder) Each of the multiple holders 2E corresponds one-to-one with one of the multiple current collectors 1E. Each of the multiple holders 2E holds a corresponding current collector 1E from among the multiple current collectors 1E. Each of the multiple holders 2E is aligned with the corresponding current collector 1E in the Y-axis direction (front-to-back direction).
[0071] Multiple holders 2E are arranged in a predetermined direction X1 (vertical direction, i.e., the Z-axis direction as shown in Figure 8). Each of the multiple holders 2E holds a corresponding current collector 1E from among the multiple current collectors 1E, so the multiple current collectors 1E are also similarly arranged in the predetermined direction X1. The predetermined direction X1 here is the direction that intersects (in this case is orthogonal to) both the direction in which the current collector 1 moves while the contact surface 11 is in contact with the conductor A11 of the corresponding trolley wire A1 (left-right direction, i.e., the X-axis direction as shown in Figure 8) and the direction in which each of the multiple current collectors 1E and the corresponding holder 2E are arranged (front-back direction, i.e., the perpendicular direction to the plane of the paper in Figure 8).
[0072] In each of the two holders 2E located at both ends in a predetermined direction X1, a wear confirmation line 21E is provided on the side 202 opposite to the adjacent holder 2E, of the two opposing side surfaces 201 and 202 along the predetermined direction X1. More specifically, in the holder 2E located at the positive end (upper end) of the Z-axis in a predetermined direction X1, a wear confirmation line 21E is provided on the positive side (upper surface) of the Z-axis. Similarly, in the holder 2E located at the negative end (lower end) of the Z-axis in a predetermined direction X1, a wear confirmation line 21E is provided on the negative side (lower surface) of the Z-axis. With the above configuration, the user can visually inspect the wear confirmation line 21E without having to peer through the gap between two adjacent holders 2E. Therefore, the current collector 10E of Embodiment 2 has the advantage of making it easier to check the degree of wear of the current collector 1E.
[0073] On the other hand, in each of the two holders 2E located at both ends in a predetermined direction X1, the wear confirmation line 21E is not provided in a part different from the side surface 202 described above. More specifically, in the holder 2E located at the positive end (upper end) of the Z axis in a predetermined direction X1, the wear confirmation line 21E is not provided on the negative side surface (lower surface) of the Z axis. Similarly, in the holder 2E located at the negative end (lower end) of the Z axis in a predetermined direction X1, the wear confirmation line 21E is not provided on the positive side surface (upper surface) of the Z axis.
[0074] Furthermore, in one or more (two in Embodiment 2) holders 2E that are different from the two holders 2E located at both ends in a predetermined direction X1, wear confirmation lines 21E are not provided on two opposing sides (upper and lower surfaces) along the Z-axis direction. Note that "holders 2E different from the two holders 2E located at both ends in a predetermined direction X1" refers to one or more (two in Embodiment 2) holders 2E sandwiched between the two holders 2E located at both ends in a predetermined direction X1.
[0075] (2-3) Effects The current collector 10E according to Embodiment 2 transmits power to a mobile device from each of a plurality of trolley wires A1. The current collector 10E comprises a plurality of current collectors 1E and a plurality of holders 2E. Each of the plurality of current collectors 1E has a contact surface 11 that contacts the conductor A11 of the corresponding trolley wire A1. Each of the plurality of holders 2E holds a corresponding current collector 1E. At least one of the plurality of holders 2E is provided with a wear confirmation line 21E parallel to the contact surface 11 of the corresponding current collector 1E. The wear confirmation line 21E is exposed from the covering member A12 of the corresponding trolley wire A1 when the contact surface 11 of the corresponding current collector 1E is in contact with the conductor A11 of the corresponding trolley wire A1. As a result, in the current collector 10E of Embodiment 2, the user can visually inspect the wear confirmation line 21 while each of the multiple current collectors 1E is in contact with the corresponding conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, that is, while each of the multiple current collectors 1E is attached to the trolley wire A1. Therefore, the current collector 10E of Embodiment 2 has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collectors 1E can be easily confirmed.
[0076] In the current collector 10E according to Embodiment 2, a plurality of holders 2E are arranged in a predetermined direction X1. Of the plurality of holders 2E, two holders 2E located at both ends in the predetermined direction X1 are provided with a wear confirmation line 21E on the side 202 opposite to the adjacent holder 2E, of the two opposing side surfaces 201 and 202 along the predetermined direction X1. This allows the user to visually inspect the wear confirmation line 21 without having to peer through the gap between two adjacent holders 2E. Therefore, the current collector 10E of Embodiment 2 has the advantage of making it easier to check the degree of wear of the current collector 1E.
[0077] The current collection system 100 according to Embodiment 2 comprises a current collector 10E and a trolley wire A1. This allows the user to visually inspect the wear confirmation line 21 when the contact surface 11 of the current collector 1E is in contact with the conductor A11 of the trolley wire A1, that is, when the current collector 1E is attached to the trolley wire A1. For this reason, the current collection system 100 of Embodiment 2 has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector 1E can be easily confirmed.
[0078] (2-4) Modified form of Embodiment 2 Embodiment 2 described above is merely one of many embodiments of this disclosure. Embodiment 2 described above can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of this disclosure are achieved.
[0079] The following are examples of modifications of Embodiment 2. These modifications may be implemented by combining them as appropriate. They may also be implemented by combining them with any of the configurations of Embodiment 1 and its modifications described above.
[0080] In the above-described embodiment 2, the wear confirmation line 21E is not provided on each of the two holders 2E located at both ends in a predetermined direction X1, in a portion different from the side surface 202. However, the wear confirmation line 21E may be provided on each of the two holders 2E located at both ends in a predetermined direction X1, in a portion different from the side surface 202. More specifically, the wear confirmation line 21E may be provided on the negative side surface (bottom surface) of the Z-axis for the holder 2E located at the positive end (upper end) of the Z-axis in a predetermined direction X1. Similarly, the wear confirmation line 21E may be provided on the positive side surface (upper surface) of the Z-axis for the holder 2E located at the negative end (lower end) of the Z-axis in a predetermined direction X1.
[0081] In the above-described embodiment 2, wear confirmation lines 21E are not provided on two opposing sides (upper and lower surfaces) along the Z-axis in one or more holders 2E that are different from the two holders 2E located at both ends in a predetermined direction X1. However, wear confirmation lines 21E may be provided on at least one of the two opposing sides along the Z-axis in one or more holders 2E that are different from the two holders 2E located at both ends in a predetermined direction X1.
[0082] In other words, each of the multiple holders 2E may have a wear confirmation line 21E on each of the two opposing sides along the Z-axis.
[0083] (summary) The current collector (10, 10A~10E) 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) of the first embodiment comprises a current collector (1) and holders (2, 2A~2E). The current collector (1) has a contact surface (11) that contacts the conductor (A11). The holders (2, 2A~2E) hold the current collector (1). The holders (2, 2A~2E) are provided with wear confirmation lines (21, 21A~21E) parallel to the contact surface (11). The wear confirmation lines (21, 21A~21E) are exposed from the covering member (A12) when the contact surface (11) is in contact with the conductor (A11).
[0084] This embodiment has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector (1) can be easily confirmed.
[0085] In the second embodiment of the current collector (10, 10A~10E), the wear confirmation lines (21, 21A~21E) are provided on the holder (2, 2A~2E) in a visible color, as in the first embodiment.
[0086] This embodiment has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector (1) can be more easily confirmed.
[0087] In the third embodiment of the current collector (10C, 10D), in the first or second embodiment, the wear confirmation lines (21C, 21D) are provided on the holder (2C, 2D) in a concave or convex shape.
[0088] This embodiment has the advantage of preventing the wear confirmation lines (21C, 21D) from becoming difficult to see due to aging and wear.
[0089] In the current collector (10, 10A~10E) of the fourth embodiment, in any of the first to third embodiments, the wear confirmation lines (21, 21A~21E) are provided on at least a portion of the holders (2, 2A~2E) in the direction of movement in which the current collector (1) moves while the contact surface (11) is in contact with the conductor (A11).
[0090] This embodiment has the advantage that wear confirmation lines (21, 21A~21E) can be easily provided.
[0091] In the current collector of the fifth embodiment (10, 10A~10E), as in the fourth embodiment, the wear confirmation lines (21, 21A~21E) are provided at least at both ends of the holder (2, 2A~2E) in the direction of movement in which the current collector (1) moves while the contact surface (11) is in contact with the conductor (A11).
[0092] This embodiment has the advantage of being able to confirm whether or not the electron collector (1) is experiencing uneven wear.
[0093] In the current collector (10A) of the sixth embodiment, in any of the first to fifth embodiments, the holder (2A) is provided with a plurality of wear confirmation lines (21A). The plurality of wear confirmation lines (21A) are provided parallel to each other.
[0094] This embodiment has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector (1) can be checked in stages.
[0095] In the current collector (10, 10A~10E) of the seventh embodiment, in any of the first to sixth embodiments, the current collector (1) is provided with a second wear confirmation line (12) that is different from the first wear confirmation line (21, 21A~21E) which serves as a wear confirmation line (21, 21A~21E), and is parallel to the contact surface (11).
[0096] This embodiment has the advantage of being able to accurately determine the degree of wear of the current collector (1).
[0097] The eighth embodiment of the current collector (10E) is a current collector that transmits power to a mobile device from each of a plurality of trolley wires (A1) having a conductor (A11) and a covering member (A12) covering a part of the conductor (A11). The eighth embodiment of the current collector (10E) comprises a plurality of current collectors (1E) and a plurality of holders (2E). Each of the plurality of current collectors (1E) has a contact surface (11) that contacts the conductor (A11) of a corresponding trolley wire (A1) among the plurality of trolley wires (A1). Each of the plurality of holders (2E) holds a corresponding current collector (1) among the plurality of current collectors (1E). At least one of the holders (2E) is provided with a wear confirmation line (21E) parallel to the contact surface (11). The wear confirmation line (21E) is exposed from the covering member (A12) when the contact surface (11) is in contact with the conductor (A11).
[0098] This embodiment has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector (1) can be easily confirmed.
[0099] In the current collector (10) of the ninth embodiment, the plurality of holders (2E) are arranged in a predetermined direction (X1). In each of the two holders (2E) located at both ends in the predetermined direction (X1), a wear confirmation line (21E) is provided on the side (202) opposite to the adjacent holder (2E) among the two opposing side faces (201, 202) along the predetermined direction (X1).
[0100] This embodiment has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector (1) can be more easily confirmed.
[0101] The tenth embodiment of the current collection system (100) comprises a current collector (10, 10A to 10E) of any of the first to sixth embodiments and a trolley wire (A1).
[0102] This embodiment has the advantage that the degree of wear of the current collector (1, 1E) can be easily confirmed. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0103] 100 Current collection system 10, 10A~10E current collector 1, 1E collector 11 Contact surface 12. Second wear confirmation line 2, 2A~2E Holder 21, 21A~21E First wear confirmation line (wear confirmation line) 201, 202 Side view A1 Trolley Line A11 Conductor A12 Covering member X1 Specified direction
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, The holder for holding the current collector is provided, The holder is provided with a wear confirmation line parallel to the contact surface. The wear confirmation line is exposed from the covering member when the contact surface is in contact with the conductor. Current collector.
2. The wear confirmation line is provided on the holder in a visible color. The current collector according to claim 1.
3. The wear confirmation line is provided on the holder in a concave or convex shape. The current collector according to claim 1.
4. The wear confirmation line is provided on at least a portion of the holder in the direction of movement in which the current collector moves while the contact surface is in contact with the conductor. The current collector according to claim 1.
5. The wear confirmation line is provided at least at both ends of the holder in the direction of movement. The current collector according to claim 4.
6. The holder is provided with multiple wear confirmation lines. The plurality of wear confirmation lines are arranged parallel to each other. The current collector according to claim 1.
7. The current collector is provided with a second wear confirmation line, which is a different line from the first wear confirmation line and is parallel to the contact surface. The current collector according to claim 1.
8. A current collector that transmits power to a mobile device from each of a plurality of trolley wires having a conductor and a covering member covering a part of the conductor, A plurality of current collectors, each having a contact surface that contacts the conductor of a corresponding trolley wire among the plurality of trolley wires, The system comprises a plurality of holders, each holding a corresponding electron collector among the plurality of electron collectors, At least one of the plurality of holders is provided with a wear confirmation line parallel to the contact surface. The wear confirmation line is exposed from the covering member when the contact surface is in contact with the conductor. Current collector.
9. The plurality of holders are arranged in a predetermined direction, In each of the two holders located at both ends in the predetermined direction among the plurality of holders, the wear confirmation line is provided on the side opposite to the adjacent holder among the two opposing sides along the predetermined direction. The current collector according to claim 8.
10. A current collector according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The trolley wire is provided, Current collection system.