Power supply equipment and trolley wire

Abstract

The purpose of the present disclosure is to reduce the possibility that a trolley wire will bend. A power supply device according to the present invention comprises a trolley wire (2) and a plurality of supporters. The trolley wire (2) includes an electrical wire (20) and a covering member (21). The covering member (21) covers a portion of the electrical wire (20). The plurality of supporters are arranged along a rail and support the trolley wire (2). The covering member (21) covers at least a rear surface of the electrical wire (20) and protrudes to the rear from the rear surface of the electrical wire (20). The thickness (interval I1) from the rear surface of the electrical wire (20) to the rear end of the covering member (21) is greater than the width (width W1 or W2) of the electrical wire (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a power supply device and an overhead wire, and more particularly to an overhead wire having a covering member and a power supply device including the overhead wire.

Background Art

[0002] The insulated trolley described in Patent Document 1 includes a tightening device, a first connection block, and a second connection block. The tightening device holds a first end of a first insulated trolley wire (overhead wire) and a second end of a second insulated trolley wire (overhead wire). The first connection block holds a third end opposite to the first end of the first insulated trolley wire. The second connection block holds a fourth end opposite to the second end of the second insulated trolley wire.

[0003] However, in the insulated trolley described in Patent Document 1, the overhead wire may bend due to, for example, a force applied by a current collector that receives power from the overhead wire to the overhead wire.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a power supply device and an overhead wire that can reduce the possibility of the overhead wire bending.

[0006] A power supply device according to one aspect of the present disclosure supplies power to a mobile device. The mobile device is movable along a rail. The power supply device comprises a trolley wire and a plurality of supporters. The trolley wire comprises an electric wire and a covering member. The electric wire is used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device. The covering member is electrically insulating. The covering member covers a portion of the electric wire. The plurality of supporters are arranged along the rail and support the trolley wire. The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness from the rear surface of the electric wire to the rear end of the covering member is greater than the width of the electric wire. The covering member comprises a covering body and a front rib. The covering body covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire. The front rib protrudes forward from the covering body. A power supply device according to one aspect of the present disclosure supplies power to a mobile device. The mobile device is movable along a rail. The power supply device comprises a trolley wire and a plurality of supporters. The trolley wire has an electric wire and a covering member. The electric wire is used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device. The covering member is electrically insulating. The covering member covers a portion of the electric wire. The plurality of supporters are arranged along the rail and support the trolley wire. The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness from the rear surface of the electric wire to the rear end of the covering member is greater than the width of the electric wire. The covering member has a covering body and a plurality of rear ribs. The covering body covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire. The plurality of rear ribs protrude rearward from the covering body. At least one of the plurality of supporters has an insertion portion. The insertion portion is inserted between two adjacent rear ribs among the plurality of rear ribs. A power supply device according to one aspect of the present disclosure supplies power to a mobile device. The mobile device is movable along a rail. The power supply device comprises a trolley wire and a plurality of supporters. The trolley wire has an electric wire and a covering member. The electric wire is used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device. The covering member is electrically insulating. The covering member covers a portion of the electric wire. The plurality of supporters are arranged along the rail and support the trolley wire. The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness from the rear surface of the electric wire to the rear end of the covering member is greater than the width of the electric wire. The covering member has a window that exposes the front surface of the electric wire. The electric wire has a contact portion and a projection portion. The contact portion is exposed through the window. The projection portion protrudes rearward from the contact portion. The width of the electric wire is the width of the projection portion. At least one of the multiple supporters is a connecting member having a terminal portion that is electrically connected to the electric wire. The terminal portion includes a pair of arms that sandwich the protruding portion. A power supply device according to one aspect of the present disclosure supplies power to a mobile device. The mobile device is movable along a rail. The power supply device comprises a plurality of trolley wires and a plurality of supporters. The plurality of trolley wires include the trolley wires. The trolley wires have a wire and a covering member. The wire is used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device. The covering member is electrically insulating. The covering member covers a portion of the wire. The plurality of supporters are arranged along the rail and support the trolley wires. The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the wire. The thickness from the rear surface of the wire to the rear end of the covering member is greater than the width of the wire. Two of the plurality of trolley wires are arranged in parallel. The two trolley wires are connected to each other in the covering member. The covering member of one of the two trolley wires is a first covering member, and the covering member of the other trolley wire is a second covering member. Each of the first and second covering members has windows that expose the front surface of the electric wire and are arranged in parallel. The first and second covering members have a pair of front ribs. The pair of front ribs protrude forward from the edges of the covering members that form the windows, extend in the longitudinal direction of the electric wire, and face each other. The front ribs located inside the first and second covering members protrude more than the front ribs located outside the first and second covering members. A power supply device according to one aspect of the present disclosure supplies power to a mobile device. The mobile device is movable along a rail. The power supply device comprises a trolley wire and a plurality of supporters. The trolley wire has an electric wire and a covering member. The electric wire is used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device. The covering member is electrically insulating. The covering member covers a portion of the electric wire. The plurality of supporters are arranged along the rail and support the trolley wire. The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness from the rear surface of the electric wire to the rear end of the covering member is greater than the width of the electric wire. The covering member exposes the electric wire in a portion of the electric wire that extends from the end of the electric wire. The covering member includes a front portion and a rear portion. The rear portion is located in a portion of the electric wire that is different from the portion of the electric wire and extends from behind the front portion. In the aforementioned section, a portion of the electric wire is covered by the front portion, and the rear portion of the electric wire is exposed. A power supply device according to one aspect of the present disclosure supplies power to a mobile device. The mobile device is movable along a rail. The power supply device comprises a trolley wire and a plurality of supporters. The trolley wire has an electric wire and a covering member. The electric wire is used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device. The covering member is electrically insulating. The covering member covers a portion of the electric wire. The plurality of supporters are arranged along the rail and support the trolley wire. The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness from the rear surface of the electric wire to the rear end of the covering member is greater than the width of the electric wire. At least one of the plurality of supporters has a terminal portion and a body. The terminal portion is electrically connected to the electric wire. The body holds the terminal portion. The terminal portion has a pair of arms and an opening / closing opening. The opening is provided between the pair of arms, and the opening distance is changed by an external force applied between the pair of arms. The pair of arms grip the electric wire inserted into the opening from the front of the opening by changing the opening distance of the opening.

[0007] A trolley wire according to one aspect of this disclosure is used in the power supply device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the state of a power supply device according to one embodiment before the trolley wire is attached. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the power supply device described above after the trolley wire has been installed. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a front view of the power supply device shown above, before the trolley wire is attached. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a front view showing the power supply device described above after the trolley wire has been attached. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the trolley wire of the power supply device shown above. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VI-VI in Figure 3. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII of FIG. 4. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the same power supply device cut by a plane along line VIII-VIII of FIG. 3 and a plane orthogonal to the vertical direction. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the same power supply device cut by a plane along line IX-IX of FIG. 4 and a plane orthogonal to the vertical direction. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the same power supply device and a current collector device. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of another part of the same power supply device. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a hanger of the same power supply device. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of a joint of the same power supply device. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a joint of the same power supply device. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of another joint of the same power supply device. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a hanger of a power supply device according to Modification 1. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a trolley wire of a power supply device according to Modification 2. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a trolley wire of a power supply device according to Modification 3. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a trolley wire of a power supply device according to Modification 4. [Figure 20] FIG. 20A is a side view showing a state where the opening / closing port of the terminal portion is closed. FIG. 20B is a side view showing a state where the opening / closing port of the terminal portion is open.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0009] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, the power supply device 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the following embodiment is only one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The following embodiment can be variously modified according to design and the like as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. Also, each of the drawings described in the following embodiment is a schematic diagram, and the ratio of the size and thickness of each component in the drawing does not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratio.

[0010] (Overview) As shown in FIG. 1, the power supply device 1 of the present embodiment supplies power to a mobile device 9 (see FIG. 10). The mobile device 9 is movable along a rail 3. The power supply device 1 includes a trolley wire 2 and a connection member. The trolley wire 2 has an electric wire 20. The electric wire 20 is used as a power supply path to the mobile device 9 by being electrically connected to the mobile device 9. The connection member is a member for arranging the trolley wire 2 along the rail 3. Here, an example of the connection member, the second joint 7 (see FIGS. 6 and 15), will be described. The connection member (second joint 7) has a terminal portion 71 and a body 70. The terminal portion 71 is electrically connected to the electric wire 20. The body 70 holds the terminal portion 71. The terminal portion 71 has a pair of arms 711, 712 and an opening / closing port OP1 provided between the pair of arms 711, 712. The opening / closing port OP1 changes the opening interval by an external force applied between the pair of arms 711, 712. The pair of arms 711, 712 sandwich the electric wire 20 inserted into the opening / closing port OP1 from the front of the opening / closing port OP1 by changing the opening interval of the opening / closing port OP1 (see FIGS. 2, 6, 7, 13, and 15).

[0011] According to the above configuration, an operator or the like can insert the electric wire 20 of the trolley wire 2 into the opening / closing port OP1 from the front, sandwich the electric wire 20 between the pair of arms 711, 712 of the terminal portion 71, and electrically connect the electric wire 20 to the terminal portion 71. Thus, the work of installing the trolley wire 2 can be simplified.

[0012] Furthermore, the power supply device 1 of this embodiment can be assembled by the following construction method. The construction method of this embodiment is a construction method for the power supply device 1 that supplies power to a mobile device 9. The mobile device 9 is movable along a rail 3. The power supply device 1 comprises a trolley wire 2 and a connecting member. The trolley wire 2 has an electric wire 20. The electric wire 20 is used as a power supply path to the mobile device 9 by being electrically connected to the mobile device 9. The connecting member is a member for arranging the trolley wire 2 along the rail 3. Here, we will focus on a second joint 7 (see Figures 6 and 15), which is an example of a connecting member. The connecting member (second joint 7) has a terminal portion 71 and a body 70. The terminal portion 71 is electrically connected to the electric wire 20. The body 70 holds the terminal portion 71. The terminal portion 71 has a pair of arms 711 and 712 and an opening / closing port OP1 provided between the pair of arms 711 and 712. The opening OP1 changes its opening distance by an external force applied between a pair of arms 711 and 712. The installation method has a first step and a second step. In the first step, the body 70 of the connecting member is attached to the rail 3. In the second step, after the first step, the electric wire 20 is inserted into the opening OP1 from the front of the opening OP1, and the opening distance of the opening OP1 is changed so that the electric wire 20 is sandwiched between the pair of arms 711 and 712.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the power supply device 1 of this embodiment supplies power to the mobile device 9. The mobile device 9 is movable along the rail 3. The power supply device 1 comprises a trolley wire 2 and a plurality of supporters S1. As shown in Figure 5, the trolley wire 2 has an electric wire 20 and a covering member 21. The electric wire 20 is used as a power supply path to the mobile device 9 by being electrically connected to the mobile device 9. The covering member 21 has electrical insulation properties. The covering member 21 covers a portion of the electric wire 20. The plurality of supporters S1 are arranged along the rail 3 and support the trolley wire 2. The covering member 21 covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire 20 and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire 20. The distance I1 (thickness) in the front-rear direction from the rear surface of the electric wire 20 to the rear end of the covering member 21 is longer than the width (width W1 or W2) of the electric wire 20.

[0014] According to the above configuration, the spacing I1 is longer than the width W1 or W2, meaning the trolley wire 2 is relatively long in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, the possibility of the trolley wire 2 bending is reduced.

[0015] For example, when attaching the trolley wire 2 to the supporter S1, force may be applied to the trolley wire 2, potentially causing it to bend. Also, the mobile equipment 9 may push the electric wire 20 via the current collector 90 (described later), potentially causing the trolley wire 2 to bend. Therefore, by making the trolley wire 2 relatively long in the front-to-back direction, as described above, the possibility of the trolley wire 2 bending can be reduced.

[0016] In this disclosure, up and down, front and back, and left and right merely represent the relative positional relationships of the components of the power supply device 1 and are not intended to limit the direction in which the power supply device 1 can be used. Therefore, for example, the power supply device 1 may be used in a direction in which "front" in this disclosure is up, down, back, left, or right.

[0017] The arrows in Figure 3 and other diagrams, representing up / down, front / back, and left / right, are merely illustrative and do not represent any actual physical objects.

[0018] (detail) (1) Overall structure The power supply device 1 supplies power to the mobile device 9 (see Figure 10). The mobile device 9 is, for example, a self-propelled trolley or a hoist. The mobile device 9 receives power from the power lines 20 installed on the rail 3 (see Figure 3). The mobile device 9 moves along the rail 3 using the power obtained in this way as a power source.

[0019] The power supply device 1 and the mobile device 9 are used, for example, in a logistics warehouse or factory. The mobile device 9 is used, for example, as a conveying device for transporting goods.

[0020] As shown in Figure 10, the mobile device 9 of this embodiment is equipped with a current collector 90, and multiple current collectors 97 of the current collector 90 are in contact with the electric wire 20. The electric wire 20 is electrically connected to an external power source via a power line C1 (see Figure 8). As a result, power is supplied to the mobile device 9 from the external power source via the electric wire 20 and the current collector 90.

[0021] Figure 4 is an overall view of the power supply device 1. As shown in Figure 4, the power supply device 1 is used with multiple (two) rails 3. The power supply device 1 comprises multiple (eight) trolley wires 2 and multiple (nine) supporters S1.

[0022] The nine supporters S1 consist of two first end members 4, three hangers 5, one first joint 6, one second joint 7, and two second end members 8. When the two first end members 4 and the two second end members 8 are not distinguished, they are each referred to as "end member E1". In other words, the first end member 4 and the second end member 8 are each examples of end member E1. End member E1 supports the right or left end of the electric wire 20. When the first joint 6 and the second joint 7 are not distinguished, they are each referred to as "joint J1". In other words, the first joint 6 and the second joint 7 are each examples of joint J1. Joint J1 electrically connects the two electric wires 20. The first end member 4 and the first and second joints 6 and 7 are each examples of connecting members. The connecting members are responsible for at least one of the following: relaying the electrical connection between power line C1 and wire 20, and relaying the electrical connection between two wires 20. Multiple connecting members are arranged in a left-right direction.

[0023] Furthermore, below, the eight trolley wires 2 may be distinguished and referred to as trolley wires 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G, and 2H. In addition, below, the two rails 3 may be distinguished and referred to as rails 3A and 3B.

[0024] (2) Trolley wire As shown in Figure 8, the trolley wire 2 comprises a wire 20 and a covering member 21. The wire 20 is made of a conductive material such as copper. The covering member 21 is made of an electrically insulating synthetic resin or the like.

[0025] The longitudinal direction of the electric wire 20 is aligned with the left-right direction. The covering member 21 covers a portion of the electric wire 20. For example, when the trolley wire 2 is manufactured in the factory, the covering member 21 is provided from the left end to the right end of the electric wire 20. Then, at the construction site of the power supply device 1, workers use tools such as cable cutters to strip off a portion of the covering member 21, for example, the ends. As a result, in the power supply device 1 installed at the construction site, the covering member 21 is provided only on a portion of the section between the ends of the electric wire 20 in the left-right direction (from the left end to the right end). In Figure 8, the portion of the electric wire 20 including the right end is not covered by the covering member 21 and is exposed all around. The exposed portion of the electric wire 20 in this way is electrically connected to the terminal portion 41 of the connecting member (for example, the first termination member 4 in Figure 8).

[0026] As shown in Figure 5, the trolley wires 2A and 2B are aligned vertically. Furthermore, the longitudinal directions of the trolley wires 2A and 2B are aligned in the same direction (left-right). In other words, the trolley wires 2A and 2B are aligned in parallel. The trolley wires 2A and 2B are connected to each other in the covering member 21. In other words, the covering member 21 of trolley wire 2A is connected to the covering member 21 of trolley wire 2B. In this embodiment, these two covering members 21 are connected via a connecting portion 22. The connecting portion 22 is integrally constructed with the two covering members 21. As a result, the two covering members 21 are formed as a single unit.

[0027] Furthermore, similar to the relationship between trolley wire 2A and trolley wire 2B, trolley wire 2C (see Figure 4) and trolley wire 2D are aligned vertically and connected to each other in the covering member 21. Similarly, trolley wire 2E and trolley wire 2F are aligned vertically and connected to each other in the covering member 21. Similarly, trolley wire 2G and trolley wire 2H are aligned vertically and connected to each other in the covering member 21.

[0028] From left to right, the trolley wires 2A, 2C, 2E, and 2G are arranged in this order. From left to right, the trolley wires 2B, 2D, 2F, and 2H are arranged in this order.

[0029] The current collector 90 (see Figure 10) is equipped with four current collectors 97 (only two are shown in Figure 10). Each current collector 97 is in contact with the wire 20 of one of the trolley wires 2, depending on the position of the current collector 90. Two of the four current collectors 97 are in contact with the wire 20 of one or two of the trolley wires 2A, 2C, 2E, and 2G, depending on the position of the current collector 90. The remaining two current collectors 97 are in contact with the wire 20 of one or two of the trolley wires 2B, 2D, 2F, and 2H, depending on the position of the current collector 90. For example, if the current collector 90 moves to the right from a state where all four current collectors 97 are in contact with the wire 20 of trolley wires 2A and 2B respectively, the state will change to one where all four current collectors 97 are in contact with the wire 20 of trolley wires 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D respectively. As the current collector 90 moves further to the right, the four current collectors 97 transition to a state where they are in contact with the respective electric wires 20 of the trolley wires 2C and 2D.

[0030] The shape of the electric wire 20 is the same among the multiple trolley wires 2. As shown in Figure 5, the electric wire 20 has a contact portion 201 and a protruding portion 202.

[0031] The contact portion 201 is formed in a plate shape with its thickness direction aligned with the front-to-back direction. The longitudinal direction of the contact portion 201 is aligned with the left-to-right direction. The contact portion 201 has a front surface 2010. In a cross-section perpendicular to the left-to-right direction, the central part of the front surface 2010 is recessed towards the rear. The front surface 2010 is exposed to the outside. More specifically, in any section between both ends of the contact portion 201 in the left-to-right direction, the front surface 2010 is exposed without being covered by the covering member 21.

[0032] The vertical width W2 of the protruding portion 202 is smaller than the vertical width W1 of the contact portion 201. The vertical width W1 of the contact portion 201 is the maximum width of the electric wire 20 in the vertical direction.

[0033] The protruding portion 202 extends from the rear surface of the contact portion 201 and is formed along the longitudinal direction of the electric wire 20. More specifically, in a cross section perpendicular to the left-right direction, the protruding portion 202 extends from the center of the rear surface of the contact portion 201. The protruding portion 202 is the part that is sandwiched along the longitudinal direction of the electric wire 20 by a pair of arms of the terminal portion. With respect to the terminal portion 41 of the first termination member 4 (see Figure 11), the protruding portion 202 is sandwiched by a pair of arms 411 and 412 of the terminal portion 41. In other words, the pair of arms 411 and 412 sandwich the protruding portion 202 that is inserted into the opening OP1 located between the pair of arms 411 and 412. With this configuration, the opening width between the pair of arms 411 and 412 can be reduced compared to the case where the entire electric wire 20 is sandwiched by the pair of arms 411 and 412. Therefore, it becomes easier for workers to install the electric wire 20.

[0034] First, the structure of the covering member 21 of trolley wire 2A, one of the multiple trolley wires 2, will be described below. The covering member 21 has a covering body 211, multiple (two in Figure 5) rear ribs 212, and multiple (two in Figure 5) front ribs 213.

[0035] The covering body 211 covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire 20. The covering body 211 is formed to conform to the shape of the electric wire 20. More specifically, the covering body 211 is the portion of the covering member 21 whose thickness, measured from the surface of the electric wire 20, is below a threshold. In this embodiment, the portion of the covering member 21 whose thickness, measured from the surface of the electric wire 20, exceeds the threshold corresponds to the rear rib 212 or the front rib 213.

[0036] The covering body 211 of this embodiment includes a front portion 2111 and a rear portion 2112. The front portion 2111 covers the area of ​​the contact portion 201 excluding a part of the front surface 2010. In a cross-section perpendicular to the left-right direction, the shape of the front portion 2111 is C-shaped with an open front. The rear portion 2112 covers the entire protruding portion 202. In a cross-section perpendicular to the left-right direction, the shape of the rear portion 2112 is U-shaped with an open front.

[0037] The covering member 21 has a window 2011 that exposes the front surface of the electric wire 20, more specifically, the front surface 2010 of the contact portion 201. The window 2011 is an opening. The window 2011 is provided in the covering body 211 of the covering member 21.

[0038] The two rear ribs 212 protrude rearward from the sheathing body 211. More specifically, the two rear ribs 212 protrude from the rear side portion 2112 of the sheathing body 211. The rear ribs 212 extend in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the electric wire 20.

[0039] One of the two rear ribs 212 protrudes from the upper end of the rear section 2112. The other of the two rear ribs 212 protrudes from the lower end of the rear section 2112. The protrusion amounts of the two rear ribs 212 are equal to each other. In this disclosure, "equal" is not limited to being perfectly equal, but also includes being different to a degree that does not pose a practical problem.

[0040] The two forward ribs 213 protrude forward from the covering body 211. More specifically, the two forward ribs 213 protrude from the front side portion 2111 of the covering body 211.

[0041] The two front ribs 213 protrude forward from the edge of the covering body 211 that forms the window 2011 and extend in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the electric wire 20. The two front ribs 213 face each other. More specifically, one of the two front ribs 213, the front rib 213T (first front rib), protrudes forward from above the window 2011. The other of the two front ribs 213, the front rib 213U (second front rib), protrudes forward from below the window 2011. In this way, since the front ribs 213 are provided above and below the window 2011, these two front ribs 213 prevent a worker's fingers or other body parts from moving too close to the electric wire 20. Therefore, the possibility of a worker's fingers or other body parts coming into contact with the electric wire 20 can be reduced. In addition, the insulation distance between the two electric wires 20 is extended compared to the case without the front rib 213U.

[0042] Furthermore, the protrusion of the front rib 213U is greater than that of the front rib 213T. Because the protrusion of the front rib 213U is relatively large, the insulation distance between the two wires 20 becomes relatively long.

[0043] The shapes of trolley wires 2C, 2E, and 2G are identical to those of trolley wire 2A. On the other hand, the shapes of trolley wires 2B, 2D, 2F, and 2H differ from those of trolley wire 2A with respect to the shape of the two forward ribs 213. More specifically, trolley wire 2B is vertically symmetrical to trolley wire 2A. The shapes of trolley wires 2B, 2D, 2F, and 2H are identical to each other.

[0044] One of the two front ribs 213 of the trolley wire 2B, front rib 213V, protrudes forward from above the window 2011. The other of the two front ribs 213, front rib 213W, protrudes forward from below the window 2011. The amount of protrusion of front rib 213V is greater than the amount of protrusion of front rib 213W.

[0045] Here, the covering member 21 of the trolley wire 2A is referred to as the first covering member. The covering member 21 of the trolley wire 2B is referred to as the second covering member. The first covering member is positioned above the second covering member. The first and second covering members each have two opposing front ribs 213. The two front ribs 213 protrude forward from the edges of the covering member 21 that form the window 2011 and extend in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the electric wire 20. Of the two front ribs 213T and 213U of the first covering member, the front rib 213U, which is located inside the first and second covering members, protrudes more than the front rib 213T, which is located outside the first and second covering members. Of the two front ribs 213V and 213W of the second covering member, the front rib 213V, which is located inside the first and second covering members, protrudes more than the front rib 213W, which is located outside the first and second covering members.

[0046] As described above, the thickness from the rear surface of the electric wire 20 to the rear end of the covering member 21 is greater than the width of the electric wire 20. Here, the thickness from the rear surface of the electric wire 20 to the rear end of the covering member 21 is, more specifically, the distance I1 in the front-to-back direction from the rear surface of the electric wire 20 to the rear end of the covering member 21. Here, the width of the electric wire 20 compared with the distance I1 is the width in the vertical direction of the electric wire 20 at a predetermined point.

[0047] The width of the wire 20 compared with the spacing I1 may be the largest width W1 among the widths of each region of the wire 20. More specifically, the width of the wire 20 compared with the spacing I1 may be the maximum width W1 of the wire 20 in the vertical direction.

[0048] Alternatively, the width of the wire 20 compared with the spacing I1 may be the width W2 of the protruding portion 202. More specifically, the width of the wire 20 compared with the spacing I1 may be the vertical width W2 of the protruding portion 202.

[0049] In this embodiment, the spacing I1 is longer than either the width W1 or W2. Also, the amount P1 of the rear rib 212 protruding from the covering body 211 in the front-rear direction is longer than either the width W1 or W2.

[0050] (3) Rail As shown in Figures 3 and 4, rail 3A is positioned to the left of rail 3B. The longitudinal direction of each rail 3 is aligned with the left-right direction.

[0051] Rails 3A and 3B have different lengths in the left-right direction, but are otherwise identical in their configuration. The configuration of rail 3A will be described below with reference to Figure 2.

[0052] The rail 3 is installed along the route of the mobile equipment 9 (see Figure 10). The rail 3 is fixed to the structure of a building that makes up a logistics warehouse or factory, for example. The rail 3 is made of aluminum, for example.

[0053] When viewed from the left or right, the shape of the rail 3 is C-shaped with an open front. The rail 3 has a bottom wall 31, a first side wall 32, and a second side wall 33.

[0054] The thickness direction of the bottom wall 31 is aligned with the front-to-back direction. Multiple supporters S1 are fixed to the bottom wall 31. More specifically, multiple supporters S1 are fixed to the bottom wall 31, for example, by screw fastening.

[0055] The first side wall 32 protrudes forward from the upper end of the bottom wall 31. The front end of the first side wall 32 is bent downward.

[0056] The second side wall 33 protrudes forward from the lower end of the bottom wall 31. The front end of the second side wall 33 is bent upward.

[0057] (4) Supporters As shown in Figures 3 and 4, multiple (seven in Figure 3) supporters S1 are fixed to the rail 3A in a row in the left-right direction. More specifically, the seven supporters S1 fixed to the rail 3A are, from left to right, the second end member 8, hanger 5, second joint 7, hanger 5, first joint 6, hanger 5, and first end member 4.

[0058] Multiple (two in Figure 3) supporters S1 are fixed to rail 3B. More specifically, the two supporters S1 fixed to rail 3B are, from left to right, the second end member 8 and the first end member 4.

[0059] Multiple supporters S1 support multiple trolley wires 2. More specifically, seven supporters S1 fixed to rail 3A support trolley wires 2A to 2F. Two supporters S1 fixed to rail 3B support trolley wires 2G and 2H.

[0060] The following describes the configuration of each of the multiple supporter S1 units.

[0061] (5) End member Figure 8 is a diagram that includes a cross-sectional perspective view of the first end member 4. Figure 11 shows an exploded perspective view of the first end member 4 and a perspective view of the second end member 8.

[0062] The first and second end members 4 and 8 attached to rail 3B support trolley wires 2G and 2H. In contrast, the first and second end members 4 and 8 attached to rail 3A support another trolley wire 2.

[0063] The first and second end members 4 and 8 attached to rail 3B will be described below with reference to Figures 8 and 11. However, the shape of the second end member 8 attached to rail 3A is the same as the shape of the second end member 8 attached to rail 3B. The shape of the first end member 4 attached to rail 3A is the same as the shape of the first end member 4 attached to rail 3B.

[0064] First, the first termination member 4 will be described. The first termination member 4 has a body 40, a plurality of (two in Figure 11) terminal portions 41, an insulating cover 42, and a fastening member 43. The fastening member 43 is, for example, a screw or a bolt.

[0065] The body 40 is formed from, for example, a synthetic resin. The body 40 has electrical insulating properties. The body 40 is fixed to the rail 3 using, for example, bolts 44 and nuts 45.

[0066] The body 40 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The body 40 has an internal space. The body 40 has a bottom wall 400, a first side wall 401, a second side wall 402, a third side wall 403, a first partition wall 404, and a second partition wall 405.

[0067] The bottom wall 400 has a rectangular shape. The thickness direction of the bottom wall 400 is aligned with the front-to-back direction. The body 40 further has a plurality (two in Figure 8) of positioning pieces 406. The plurality of positioning pieces 406 protrude forward from the bottom wall 400. The plurality of positioning pieces 406 position the terminal portion 41. That is, the terminal portion 41 is positioned in a position that contacts the front surface of the plurality of positioning pieces 406. In this embodiment, the first terminal member 4 has two terminal portions 41, with one terminal portion 41 being positioned by two positioning pieces 406 and the other terminal portion 41 being positioned by another two positioning pieces 406.

[0068] The first side wall 401 protrudes forward from the upper end of the bottom wall 400. The body 40 further has a claw portion 4010. The claw portion 4010 protrudes from the first side wall 401. The claw portion 4010 hooks onto the trolley wire 2 (see Figure 9). More specifically, the claw portion 4010 hooks onto the covering member 21 of the trolley wire 2. In this way, the claw portion 4010 restricts the forward movement of the trolley wire 2.

[0069] The second side wall 402 protrudes forward from the lower end of the bottom wall 400. The body 40 further has a claw portion 4020. The claw portion 4020 protrudes from the second side wall 402. The claw portion 4020 hooks onto the trolley wire 2. More specifically, the claw portion 4020 hooks onto the covering member 21 of the trolley wire 2. In this way, the claw portion 4020 restricts the forward movement of the trolley wire 2.

[0070] The third side wall 403 protrudes forward from the right end of the bottom wall 400. The third side wall 403 has two guide grooves 4030 for guiding the current collector 97 of the current collector 90.

[0071] The first partition wall 404 protrudes forward from a position between the first side wall 401 and the second side wall 402 of the bottom wall 400. The thickness direction of the first partition wall 404 is aligned with the vertical direction. The first partition wall 404 separates the space in which one of the two power lines C1 and the trolley wire 2G are located from the space in which the other of the two power lines C1 and the trolley wire 2H are located. The first partition wall 404 has a boss portion 407.

[0072] The insulating cover 42 is formed from, for example, a synthetic resin. The insulating cover 42 has electrical insulating properties. The insulating cover 42 is shaped like a rectangular plate. The thickness direction of the insulating cover 42 is aligned with the front-to-back direction. Two electric wires 20 are positioned in front of the insulating cover 42. Two power lines C1 are positioned behind the insulating cover 42. In other words, the insulating cover 42 is positioned between the two power lines C1 and the two electric wires 20.

[0073] The insulating cover 42 is positioned between the first side wall 401 and the second side wall 402. The insulating cover 42 fits onto the first partition wall 404. The insulating cover 42 also has a hole 420. The fastening member 43 is inserted into the boss portion 407 through the hole 420. This fastens the insulating cover 42 to the body 40.

[0074] The second partition wall 405 protrudes forward from a position between the first side wall 401 and the second side wall 402 of the bottom wall 400. The second partition wall 405 is adjacent to the first partition wall 404. The thickness direction of the second partition wall 405 is aligned with the vertical direction. The second partition wall 405 separates the space in which one of the two terminal portions 41 is located from the space in which the other is located.

[0075] The body 40 further has a plurality (eight in Figure 8) of restricting walls 408. The plurality of restricting walls 408 protrude vertically from the second partition wall 405. When the trolley wire 2 is attached to the terminal portion 41, the plurality of restricting walls 408 face the trolley wire 2 in the vertical direction. As a result, the plurality of restricting walls 408 restrict the movement of the trolley wire 2 in the direction in which the pair of arms 411, 412 grip the electric wire 20 (upward or downward). More specifically, the movable range of the trolley wire 2G is limited to the range between the first side wall 401 and the four restricting walls 408 protruding upward from the second partition wall 405. Also, the movable range of the trolley wire 2H is limited to the range between the second side wall 402 and the four restricting walls 408 protruding downward from the second partition wall 405.

[0076] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the body 40 further has two retaining pieces 409. The two retaining pieces 409 protrude to the left from the third side wall 403 (see Figure 11). The two retaining pieces 409 correspond one-to-one with two terminal portions 41. Each retaining piece 409 is inserted into the corresponding terminal portion 41. This restricts the forward movement of the terminal portion 41.

[0077] As shown in Figure 11, the terminal section 41 includes a pair of arms 411 and 412, a connecting section 413, and a power terminal 414. The terminal section 41 is formed from, for example, a metal plate.

[0078] The shape of the connecting portion 413 is a rectangular plate. The thickness direction of the connecting portion 413 is aligned with the front-to-back direction. The connecting portion 413 connects the rear ends of the pair of arms 411 and 412. Arm 411 protrudes forward from the upper end of the connecting portion 413. Arm 412 protrudes forward from the lower end of the connecting portion 413. The pair of arms 411 and 412 are aligned vertically.

[0079] The terminal section 41 has an opening OP1 between a pair of arms 411 and 412 on its front surface. The opening OP1 can be opened and closed in the vertical direction. In other words, the distance between the pair of arms 411 and 412 in the terminal section 41 can change. A connecting section 413 is located behind the opening OP1.

[0080] The terminal portion 41 has spring properties. More specifically, the configuration consisting of a pair of arms 411 and 412 and a connecting portion 413 has spring properties. When no external force is applied to the pair of arms 411 and 412, the opening OP1 is closed due to the spring properties of the terminal portion 41. In this disclosure, "the opening OP1 is closed" refers to a state in which the opening distance of the opening OP1 is relatively small. In this disclosure, "the opening OP1 is open" refers to a state in which the opening distance of the opening OP1 is relatively large. When the opening OP1 is closed, the tips of the pair of arms 411 and 412 do not need to be in contact. That is, when the opening OP1 is closed, the tips of the pair of arms 411 and 412 may be facing each other with a gap between them.

[0081] As the protruding portion 202 of the electric wire 20 is inserted into the opening OP1, the pair of arms 411 and 412 elastically deform in the direction that opens the opening OP1. Due to the force of the pair of arms 411 and 412 attempting to return to their elastic state, the protruding portion 202 is sandwiched between the pair of arms 411 and 412. At this time, the contact portion 201 of the electric wire 20 is located in front of the pair of arms 411 and 412, without being sandwiched between them. The terminal portion 41 of the first termination member 4 contacts (is sandwiched between) the right end or left end of the electric wire 20.

[0082] Please refer to Figure 7 for how the terminal portion 41 clamps the protruding portion 202 between the pair of arms 411 and 412. Figure 7 illustrates the state in which the terminal portion 71 of the second joint 7 clamps the protruding portion 202 between the pair of arms 711 and 712, and the terminal portion 41 clamps the protruding portion 202 in the same way. Figure 20A also illustrates the opening spacing WO1 when the opening / closing port OP1 between the pair of arms 411 and 412 of the terminal portion 41 is closed. Figure 20B illustrates the opening spacing WO2 when the opening / closing port OP1 between the pair of arms 411 and 412 of the terminal portion 41 is open. The opening spacing WO2 is larger than the opening spacing WO1. When the opening / closing port OP1 is open, the protruding portion 202 is inserted into the opening / closing port OP1, and then when the opening / closing port OP1 is closed, the protruding portion 202 is clamped between the pair of arms 411 and 412.

[0083] The power terminal 414 protrudes from the connecting portion 413 in the left and right directions. The power line C1 is attached to the power terminal 414 using a rivet R1 or the like, and is electrically connected to it.

[0084] Next, the second end member 8 will be described with reference to Figure 11. The second end member 8 has a body 80. The body 80 is formed from, for example, a synthetic resin. The body 80 is electrically insulating. The body 80 is fixed to the rail 3 using, for example, bolts and nuts.

[0085] The body 80 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The body 80 has a space inside. Two trolley wires 2 are arranged in this space.

[0086] The body 80 has a bottom wall 800, a first side wall 801, a second side wall 802, a third side wall 803, and a partition wall 804.

[0087] The bottom wall 800 has a rectangular shape. The thickness of the bottom wall 800 is aligned with the front-to-back direction.

[0088] The first side wall 801 protrudes forward from the upper end of the bottom wall 800. The second side wall 802 protrudes forward from the lower end of the bottom wall 800. The third side wall 803 protrudes forward from the left end of the bottom wall 800. The third side wall 803 has two guide grooves 8030 for guiding the current collector 97 of the current collector 90. In other words, as shown in Figure 4, the first end member 4 located at the right end of rail 3A and the second end member 8 located at the left end of rail 3B face each other. At this time, the current collector 97 moves from a position where it contacts the electric wire 20 installed on rail 3A to a position where it contacts the electric wire 20 installed on rail 3B, while passing through the guide grooves 8030 and 4030. Alternatively, the current collector 97 moves from a position where it contacts the electric wire 20 installed on rail 3B to a position where it contacts the electric wire 20 installed on rail 3A, while passing through the guide grooves 8030 and 4030. Thus, the presence of guide grooves 8030 and 4030 allows for the smooth movement of the current collector 97.

[0089] The partition wall 804 protrudes forward from a position between the first side wall 801 and the second side wall 802 of the bottom wall 800. The thickness direction of the partition wall 804 is aligned with the vertical direction. The partition wall 804 separates the space where the trolley wire 2G is located from the space where the trolley wire 2H is located.

[0090] (6) Hanger Next, the hanger 5 will be described with reference to Figure 12. Note that the shapes of the multiple hangers 5 are identical to each other.

[0091] Hanger 5 is formed from, for example, a synthetic resin. Hanger 5 has electrical insulating properties.

[0092] The hanger 5 has a bottom wall 50, a first side wall 51, a second side wall 52, a plurality of (four in Figure 12) claw portions 53, and a plurality of (two in Figure 12) mounting pieces 54.

[0093] The bottom wall 50 has a rectangular shape. The thickness of the bottom wall 50 is aligned with the front-to-back direction.

[0094] The first side wall 51 protrudes forward from the upper end of the bottom wall 50. The second side wall 52 protrudes forward from the lower end of the bottom wall 50. Two trolley wires 2 are passed through the space between the first side wall 51 and the second side wall 52 and supported by the hanger 5. These two trolley wires 2 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction (see Figure 2).

[0095] Two claw portions 53 protrude from the first side wall 51. Another two claw portions 53 protrude from the second side wall 52.

[0096] The claw portion 53 hooks onto the trolley wire 2. More specifically, the claw portion 53 hooks onto the covering member 21 of the trolley wire 2. In this way, the claw portion 53 restricts the forward movement of the trolley wire 2.

[0097] The two mounting pieces 54 protrude from the bottom wall 50. Each mounting piece 54 has a through portion 540. Each mounting piece 54 penetrates in the front-rear direction through the through portion 540. The hanger 5 is fixed to the rail 3, for example, by passing bolts through the through portion 540 and holes provided in the rail 3, and then passing the bolts through nuts on the rear surface of the rail 3.

[0098] (7) First joint Next, the first joint 6 will be described with reference to Figures 13 and 14. The first joint 6 electrically connects the wires 20 of each of the two trolley wires 2 that are aligned in the left-right direction. More specifically, as shown in Figures 4 and 14, the first joint 6 electrically connects the wire 20 of trolley wire 2D to the wire 20 of trolley wire 2F. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the first joint 6 electrically connects the wire 20 of trolley wire 2C to the wire 20 of trolley wire 2E.

[0099] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the first joint 6 has a body 60 and two terminal portions 61. The body 60 includes a first body 60a and a second body 60b located to the right of the first body 60a.

[0100] The first body 60a and the second body 60b are formed from, for example, a synthetic resin. The first body 60a and the second body 60b are electrically insulating. The first body 60a and the second body 60b are fixed to the rail 3 using, for example, bolts and nuts.

[0101] Trolley wires 2C and 2D are inserted into the first body 60a. Trolley wires 2E and 2F are inserted into the second body 60b.

[0102] Since the shape of the second body 60b is symmetrical with respect to the first body 60a, the configuration of the first body 60a will be described below.

[0103] The shape of the first body 60a is that of a rectangular parallelepiped. The first body 60a has an internal space. The first body 60a has a bottom wall 600, a first side wall 601, a second side wall 602, a third side wall 603, a partition wall 604, and a mounting piece 605.

[0104] The bottom wall 600 has a rectangular shape. The thickness direction of the bottom wall 600 is aligned with the front-to-back direction. The first body 60a further has a plurality (two in Figure 14) of positioning pieces 606. The plurality of positioning pieces 606 protrude forward from the bottom wall 600. The plurality of positioning pieces 606 position the terminal portion 61. That is, the terminal portion 61 is positioned in a position that contacts the front surface of the plurality of positioning pieces 606. In this embodiment, the first joint 6 has two terminal portions 61, and one terminal portion 61 is positioned by the two positioning pieces 606 of the first body 60a and the two positioning pieces 606 of the second body 60b. The other terminal portion 61 is positioned by two other positioning pieces 606 of the first body 60a and two other positioning pieces 606 of the second body 60b.

[0105] The first side wall 601 protrudes forward from the upper end of the bottom wall 600. The second side wall 602 protrudes forward from the lower end of the bottom wall 600. The third side wall 603 protrudes forward from the left end of the bottom wall 600.

[0106] The first body 60a further has a claw portion 6010. The claw portion 6010 protrudes from the first side wall 601. The claw portion 6010 hooks onto the trolley wire 2. More specifically, the claw portion 6010 hooks onto the covering member 21 of the trolley wire 2. In this way, the claw portion 6010 restricts the forward movement of the trolley wire 2.

[0107] The second body 60b further has a claw portion 6020. The claw portion 6020 protrudes from the second side wall 602. The claw portion 6020 hooks onto the trolley wire 2. More specifically, the claw portion 6020 hooks onto the covering member 21 of the trolley wire 2. In this way, the claw portion 6020 restricts the forward movement of the trolley wire 2.

[0108] The partition wall 604 protrudes forward from a position between the first side wall 601 and the second side wall 602 of the bottom wall 600. The thickness direction of the partition wall 604 is aligned with the vertical direction. The partition wall 604 separates the space in which one of the two trolley wires 2 is located from the space in which the other is located.

[0109] The first body 60a further has a plurality (six in Figure 13) of restricting walls 608. The plurality of restricting walls 608 protrude vertically from the partition wall 604. When the trolley wire 2 is attached to the terminal portion 61, the plurality of restricting walls 608 face the trolley wire 2 in the vertical direction. As a result, the plurality of restricting walls 608 restrict the movement of the trolley wire 2 in the direction in which the pair of arms 611, 612 grip the electric wire 20 (upward or downward). More specifically, the movable range of the trolley wire 2C is limited to the range between the first side wall 601 and the three restricting walls 608 protruding upward from the partition wall 604. Also, the movable range of the trolley wire 2D is limited to the range between the second side wall 602 and the three restricting walls 608 protruding downward from the partition wall 604.

[0110] The mounting piece 605 protrudes from the bottom wall 600. The mounting piece 605 has a through portion 6050. The mounting piece 605 penetrates in the front-rear direction through the through portion 6050. The first body 60a is fixed to the rail 3, for example, by passing bolts through the through portion 6050 and holes provided in the rail 3, and then passing bolts through nuts on the rear surface of the rail 3.

[0111] Furthermore, the first body 60a has two inner walls 607 and two (only one is shown in Figure 14) retaining pieces 609. One inner wall 607 is provided above and below the partition wall 604. A retaining piece 609 protrudes to the right from each inner wall 607. The two retaining pieces 609 correspond one-to-one with two terminal portions 61. Each retaining piece 609 is inserted into the corresponding terminal portion 61. This restricts the forward movement of the terminal portion 61.

[0112] As shown in Figure 13, the terminal portion 61 includes two pairs of arms 611 and 612 and a connecting portion 613. The terminal portion 61 is formed from, for example, a metal plate.

[0113] The shape of the connecting portion 613 is a rectangular plate. The thickness direction of the connecting portion 613 is aligned with the front-to-back direction. A pair of arms 611 and 612 are provided to the left of the center of the connecting portion 613, and another pair of arms 611 and 612 are provided to the right of the center of the connecting portion 613.

[0114] The connecting section 613 connects the rear ends of the two pairs of arms 611 and 612. In the area to the left of the center of the connecting section 613, arm 611 protrudes forward from the upper end of the connecting section 613, and arm 612 protrudes forward from the lower end of the connecting section 613. Also, in the area to the right of the center of the connecting section 613, arm 611 protrudes forward from the upper end of the connecting section 613, and arm 612 protrudes forward from the lower end of the connecting section 613.

[0115] The terminal section 61 has an opening OP1 between each pair of arms 611 and 612 on the front surface of the terminal section 61. A connecting section 613 is located behind the opening OP1.

[0116] The terminal portion 61 has spring properties. When no external force is applied to the pair of arms 611 and 612, the opening OP1 is closed due to the spring properties of the terminal portion 61. As described above, in this disclosure, "the opening OP1 is closed" refers to a state in which the opening distance of the opening OP1 is relatively small.

[0117] As the protruding portion 202 of the electric wire 20 is inserted into the opening OP1 between the pair of arms 611 and 612, the pair of arms 611 and 612 elastically deform in the direction that opens the opening OP1. Due to the force of the pair of arms 611 and 612 attempting to return to their elastic state, the protruding portion 202 is sandwiched between the pair of arms 611 and 612. At this time, the contact portion 201 of the electric wire 20 is located in front of the pair of arms 611 and 612, without being sandwiched between them.

[0118] Terminal section 61 a pair of arms 611 , 612 For an example of how the protrusion 202 is sandwiched, please refer to Figure 7. Figure 7 illustrates the state in which the terminal portion 71 of the second joint 7 sandwiches the protrusion 202 between a pair of arms 711 and 712, but the terminal portion 61 sandwiches the protrusion 202 in the same manner.

[0119] Thus, the terminal section 61 has two pairs of arms. Any pair of the two pairs of arms of the terminal section 61 consists of a first type arm section 611 and a second type arm section 612. One of the two pairs of arms of the terminal section 61 is called the pair of first arms 611 and 612, and the other is called the pair of second arms 611 and 612. The pair of first arms 611 and 612 are electrically connected to the pair of second arms 611 and 612. The pair of first arms 611 and 612 sandwich the wire 20 of the first trolley wire among the multiple trolley wires 2, and the pair of second arms 611 and 612 sandwich the wire 20 of the second trolley wire among the multiple trolley wires 2. As a result, the first joint 6 electrically connects the wire 20 of the first trolley wire and the wire 20 of the second trolley wire.

[0120] As shown in Figure 14, the terminal portion 61 further includes a protrusion 614. The protrusion 614 protrudes from the connecting portion 613. More specifically, the protrusion 614 protrudes from the rear surface of the connecting portion 613. The protrusion 614 is inserted between the positioning piece 606 of the first body 60a and the positioning piece 606 of the second body 60b. This positions the terminal portion 61. Furthermore, the presence of the protrusion 614 reinforces the terminal portion 61, reducing the possibility of the terminal portion 61 bending due to the force of inserting and removing the power line C1 from the terminal portion 61. The terminal portion 61 is also positioned between the inner wall 607 of the first body 60a and the inner wall 607 of the second body 60b.

[0121] (8) Second joint Next, the configuration of the second joint 7 will be described with reference to Figure 15. The configuration, which is similar to that of the first joint 6, will not be explained.

[0122] The second joint 7 has the function of electrically connecting the electric wire 20 to the power line C1. Furthermore, the second joint 7, like the first joint 6, has the function of electrically connecting the electric wires 20 of the two trolley wires 2 that are aligned in the left-right direction.

[0123] More specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the second joint 7 electrically connects the wire 20 of trolley wire 2A to the wire 20 of trolley wire 2C. Furthermore, the second joint 7 electrically connects the wire 20 of trolley wire 2B to the wire 20 of trolley wire 2D.

[0124] As shown in Figure 15, the second joint 7 includes a body 70, two terminal portions 71, an insulating cover 72, and a fastening member 73. The fastening member 73 is, for example, a screw or a bolt.

[0125] The body 70 is formed from, for example, a synthetic resin. The body 70 has electrical insulating properties. The body 70 is fixed to the rail 3 using, for example, bolts 74 and nuts 75.

[0126] The body 70 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The body 70 has an internal space. The body 70 has a bottom wall 700, a first side wall 701, a second side wall 702, a plurality of (two in Figure 15) mounting pieces 703, a first partition wall 704, a second partition wall 705, a plurality of positioning pieces 706, a plurality of (twelve in Figure 15) regulating walls 708, a plurality of (two in Figure 15) retaining pieces 709, a plurality of (two in Figure 15) claw portions 7010, and a plurality of (two in Figure 15) claw portions 7020.

[0127] The bottom wall 700, first side wall 701, second side wall 702, multiple mounting pieces 703, second partition wall 705, multiple positioning pieces 706, multiple regulating walls 708, multiple retaining pieces 709, multiple claw portions 7010, and multiple claw portions 7020 of the body 70 of the second joint 7 have the same configuration as the bottom wall 600, first side wall 601, second side wall 602, multiple mounting pieces 605, partition wall 604, multiple positioning pieces 606, multiple regulating walls 608, multiple retaining pieces 609, multiple claw portions 6010, and multiple claw portions 6020 of the first joint 6, so their explanation is omitted.

[0128] The first partition wall 704 protrudes forward from a position between the first side wall 701 and the second side wall 702 of the bottom wall 700. The thickness direction of the first partition wall 704 is aligned with the vertical direction. The first partition wall 704 separates the space in which one of the two power lines C1 and the trolley wire 2A are located from the space in which the other of the two power lines C1 and the trolley wire 2B are located. The first partition wall 704 has a boss portion 707.

[0129] The insulating cover 72 fits onto the first partition wall 704. The insulating cover 72 also has a hole 720. The fastening member 73 is inserted into the boss portion 707 through the hole 720. This fastens the insulating cover 72 to the body 70. The insulating cover 72 has the same configuration as the insulating cover 42 of the first end member 4, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0130] Two electric wires 20 are positioned in front of the insulating cover 72. Two power lines C1 are positioned behind the insulating cover 72.

[0131] As shown in Figure 15, the terminal section 71 includes two pairs of arms 711 and 712, a connecting section 713, and a power terminal 714. The terminal section 71 is formed from, for example, a metal plate. The two pairs of arms 711 and 712 and the connecting section 713 of the terminal section 71 have the same configuration as the two pairs of arms 611 and 612 and the connecting section 613 of the terminal section 61 of the first joint 6, so their explanation is omitted.

[0132] The power terminal 714 protrudes from the connecting portion 713 in the left and right directions. The power line C1 is attached to the power terminal 714 using a rivet R1 or the like, and is electrically connected to it.

[0133] (9) Mobile equipment As shown in Figure 10, the mobile device 9 comprises a main unit and a current collector 90. The main unit has an electric motor or other electric device. The main unit receives power from the electric wire 20 via the current collector 90.

[0134] The current collector 90 includes a base block 91, a rotating seat 92, a swing arm 93, a rotating joint 94, a manifold arm 95, multiple (two in Figure 10) current collector holders 96, multiple current collectors 97, and a cable 98.

[0135] The base block 91 is fixed to the main body of the device. The rotating seat 92 is connected to the base block 91.

[0136] The first end of the swing arm 93 is attached to the rotating seat 92, and the second end is attached to the rotating joint 94. The swing arm 93 is rotatable relative to the rotating seat 92.

[0137] The manifold arm 95 is attached to the rotary joint 94. The manifold arm 95 is rotatable relative to the rotary joint 94. Multiple current collector holders 96 are attached to the manifold arm 95. Multiple current collectors 97 are attached to the multiple current collector holders 96. The multiple current collectors 97 are electrically connected to the main body of the device via a cable 98.

[0138] Multiple current collectors 97 make contact with the electric wire 20 fixed to the rail 3. This electrically connects the multiple current collectors 97 to the electric wire 20. The multiple current collectors 97 slide along the surface of the electric wire 20.

[0139] Next, refer to Figures 3 and 4. Focusing on the configuration on rail 3A, current flows from an external power source to the wire 20 via power line C1 at either the first termination member 4 and the second joint 7, or the first termination member 4 and the second joint 7. Focusing on the configuration on rail 3B, current flows from an external power source to the wire 20 via power line C1 at the first termination member 4.

[0140] When multiple current collectors 97 come into contact with the electric wire 20, current is supplied to the main body of the device via the cable 98.

[0141] Thus, at least one of the multiple connecting members (the first termination member 4 and the second joint 7) has power terminals 414 and 714 to which the power line C1 is electrically connected, and supplies power supplied from an external power source via the power line C1 to the mobile device 9 via the power line 20.

[0142] Furthermore, at least one of the multiple connecting members is a first termination member 4 having a terminal portion 41 that connects to the end (right end or left end) of the electric wire 20. The first termination member 4 has a power terminal 414 to which the power line C1 is electrically connected, and supplies power supplied from an external power source via the power line C1 to the mobile device 9 via the electric wire 20.

[0143] (10) Construction method Next, an example of the procedure for installing the power supply device 1 in a logistics warehouse or factory facility will be described. Note that the order of the following steps may be rearranged as appropriate. Also, steps may be added or omitted as appropriate.

[0144] First, the worker fixes multiple supporters S1 to each of the multiple rails 3. That is, as shown in Figure 1, the worker fixes multiple supporters S1 to the front of the bottom wall 31 of the rail 3 so that the multiple supporters S1 are lined up in the left-right direction. The worker then fixes the supporters S1 to the rail 3 by, for example, passing bolts through the through-holes provided in the supporters S1 and the holes provided in the bottom wall 31, and then passing the bolts through nuts on the rear surface of the rail 3.

[0145] Next, the worker fixes the rail 3 to the building structure, for example. The worker fixes the rail 3 to the structure using bolts and nuts, for example.

[0146] Next, the worker connects the two power lines C1 to the two power terminals 414 (see Figure 11) of the first end member 4 among the multiple supporters S1. Furthermore, the worker covers the two power lines C1 with an insulating cover 42 and attaches the insulating cover 42 to the body 40 using a fastening member 43. The worker also connects the two power lines C1 to the two power terminals 714 (see Figure 15) of the second joint 7. Furthermore, the worker covers the two power lines C1 with an insulating cover 72 and attaches the insulating cover 72 to the body 70 using a fastening member 73.

[0147] Next, the worker processes each of the covering members 21 of the multiple trolley wires 2 as necessary. More specifically, the worker uses a tool to strip off a portion of the covering member 21.

[0148] For example, as shown in Figure 8, the worker strips the covering member 21 from the tip portion (first section) of the trolley wire 2, completely exposing the electric wire 20. The first section is the portion of the trolley wire 2 that is sandwiched by the terminal portion 41.

[0149] Furthermore, the worker cuts a plurality of rear ribs 212 of the covering member 21 in a second section adjacent to the first section of the electric wire 20, as shown in Figure 8. The second section includes the portion of the electric wire 20 that is inserted into the body 40. The second section also includes the portion of the electric wire 20 that faces the insulating cover 42. In the second section, since the electric wire 20 is covered by the covering member 21, the electrical insulation between the electric wire 20 and the fastening member 43 and the power line C1 is improved compared to the case where the electric wire 20 in the second section is completely exposed.

[0150] After removing a portion of the covering member 21 as needed, the worker moves the multiple trolley wires 2 from the front of the multiple supporters S1 and presses them against the multiple supporters S1. As a result, as shown in Figure 2, the multiple trolley wires 2 are inserted into each of the multiple supporters S1. Note that two trolley wires 2 connected in the vertical direction (for example, trolley wires 2A and 2B) are inserted together into each of the multiple supporters S1.

[0151] Furthermore, when the trolley wire 2 is inserted into the second joint 7, the protruding portion 202 of the electric wire 20 is clamped by the terminal portion 71, as shown in Figure 7. Also, when the trolley wire 2 is inserted into the first termination member 4, the protruding portion 202 of the electric wire 20 is clamped by the terminal portion 41, as shown in Figure 9. Also, when the trolley wire 2 is inserted into the first joint 6, the protruding portion 202 of the electric wire 20 is clamped by the terminal portion 61. In other words, the pair of arms 411, 412 (or 611, 612, or 711, 712) clamp the electric wire 20 inserted into the opening OP1 from the front of the opening OP1 along the longitudinal direction of the electric wire 20. More specifically, the pair of arms 411, 412 (or 611, 612, or 711, 712) clamp the electric wire 20 inserted into the opening OP1 from the front of the opening OP1 with the longitudinal direction of the electric wire 20 facing left to right.

[0152] The installation is completed when the worker inserts the corresponding trolley wire 2 into each of the supporters S1. Figure 4 shows the power supply device 1 in the completed state.

[0153] Thus, among the multiple supporters S1, the first end member 4 is a connecting member having a terminal portion 41 that is electrically connected to the electric wire 20, and the terminal portion 41 of the first end member 4 includes a pair of arms 411, 412 that sandwich the protruding portion 202 of the electric wire 20. Similarly, among the multiple supporters S1, the first joint 6 is a connecting member having a terminal portion 61 that is electrically connected to the electric wire 20, and the terminal portion 61 of the first joint 6 includes a pair of arms 611, 612 that sandwich the protruding portion 202 of the electric wire 20. Similarly, among the multiple supporters S1, the second joint 7 is a connecting member having a terminal portion 71 that is electrically connected to the electric wire 20, and the terminal portion 71 of the second joint 7 includes a pair of arms 711, 712 that sandwich the protruding portion 202 of the electric wire 20.

[0154] Furthermore, the covering member 21 exposes the electric wire 20 in a portion of the section (first section) extending from the end (left end or right end) of the electric wire 20, and the pair of arms 411 and 412 of the terminal section 41 sandwich the electric wire 20 in the aforementioned portion of the section. Similarly, the pair of arms 711 and 712 of the terminal section 71 sandwich the electric wire 20 in the aforementioned portion of the section. Similarly, the pair of arms 611 and 612 of the terminal section 61 sandwich the electric wire 20 in the aforementioned portion of the section.

[0155] Furthermore, among the multiple connecting members, the first termination member 4 includes an electrically insulating insulating cover 42 placed between the power line C1 and the electric wire 20, and a fastening member 43 that fastens the insulating cover 42 to the body 40. The section in which the electric wire 20 is exposed (first section) is a different section from the section where the fastening member 43 is provided (second section). This ensures electrical insulation between the fastening member 43 and the electric wire 20.

[0156] Similarly, among the multiple connecting members, the second joint 7 includes an electrically insulating insulating cover 72 placed between the power line C1 and the electric wire 20, and a fastening member 73 that fastens the insulating cover 72 to the body 70. The section in which the electric wire 20 is exposed (first section) is a different section from the section in which the fastening member 73 is provided (second section).

[0157] (11) Advantages As described above, the connection between the electric wire 20 and the terminal section 41 (or 61 or 71) is completed simply by the worker moving the trolley wire 2 from front to back and inserting it into the terminal section 41 (or 61 or 71). No tools are required in this process, and the operation on the trolley wire 2 is also simple, requiring only the operation of moving the trolley wire 2 backward. In other words, the installation of the trolley wire 2 is completed with a single touch. Therefore, even when installing the power supply device 1 in a narrow space, installation is easy.

[0158] Furthermore, in the power supply device 1 of this embodiment, even if the trolley wire 2 is made of a material that is resistant to bending, it does not significantly hinder work during installation. Therefore, the trolley wire 2 can be manufactured from a material that is resistant to bending. In addition, the trolley wire 2 can be formed into a shape that is resistant to bending.

[0159] The covering member 21 of the trolley wire 2 has a plurality of rear ribs 212. The covering member 21 also has a plurality of front ribs 213. As a result, the trolley wire 2 is formed in a relatively long shape in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, the possibility of the trolley wire 2 bending around an axis along the vertical direction is reduced.

[0160] Furthermore, the electric wire 20 of the trolley wire 2 has a contact portion 201 that has length in the vertical direction and a projection portion 202 that protrudes rearward from the contact portion 201. As a result, the cross-sectional shape of the electric wire 20 is Y-shaped. Due to this shape of the electric wire 20 and the fact that the covering member 21 has a rear rib 212 and a front rib 213, the section modulus of the trolley wire 2 is relatively large, making the trolley wire 2 less prone to bending.

[0161] Furthermore, because the trolley wire 2 is less prone to bending, the spacing between the supporters S1 can be made relatively long. In other words, the number of supporters S1 provided by the power supply device 1 can be reduced.

[0162] Furthermore, if the trolley wire 2 is easily bent, the trolley wire 2 may bend as the mobile device 9 pushes the electric wire 20 backward with the current collector 97 while moving. This could cause the electric wire 20 to separate from the current collector 97, potentially disengaging the electrical connection between the current collector 97 and the electric wire 20. In contrast, as described above, the trolley wire 2 is designed to be less prone to bending, making it less likely for the electrical connection between the current collector 97 and the electric wire 20 to be disengaged.

[0163] (Variation 1) The power supply device 1 according to Modification 1 will be described below with reference to Figure 16. Components similar to those in the embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted.

[0164] In this modified example 1, the power supply device 1 is equipped with a hanger 5A instead of the hanger 5 (see Figure 12). In addition to all the components of the hanger 5, the hanger 5A has multiple (two in Figure 16) insertion parts 55. The two insertion parts 55 protrude forward from the bottom wall 50. The two insertion parts 55 correspond one-to-one with the two trolley wires 2 inserted into the hanger 5A. Each insertion part 55 is inserted between the two rear ribs 212 of the corresponding trolley wire 2. This secures the trolley wire 2 more firmly and reduces the possibility of the trolley wire 2 bending.

[0165] At least one of the first end member 4, second end member 8, first joint 6, and second joint 7 may have a configuration similar to the insertion portion 55. That is, at least one of the multiple supporters S1 may have an insertion portion 55 that is inserted between two adjacent rear ribs 212 among the multiple rear ribs 212.

[0166] (Modification 2) The power supply device 1 according to Modification 2 will be described below with reference to Figure 17. Components similar to those in the embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted.

[0167] The power supply device 1 in this modified example 2 differs from the embodiment in the shape of the covering member 21. The covering member 21 has a covering body 211 and a plurality (two in Figure 17) of front ribs 213.

[0168] The covering body 211 further has an extension 2113 that extends rearward from the rear side portion 2112. In the vertical direction, the width of the extension 2113 is equal to the width of the rear side portion 2112. That is, the extension 2113 is provided by extending the rear side portion 2112 rearward.

[0169] Furthermore, a cavity may exist inside the extension 2113.

[0170] In this modified example 2, the trolley wire 2 is relatively long in the front-to-back direction due to the provision of the extension 2113. Therefore, the possibility of the trolley wire 2 bending around the axis in the vertical direction is reduced.

[0171] (Variation 3) The power supply device 1 according to Modification 3 will be described below with reference to Figure 18. Components similar to those in the embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted.

[0172] The power supply device 1 in this modified example 3 differs from the embodiment in terms of the shape of the electric wire 20 and the shape of the covering member 21.

[0173] The electric wire 20 is formed from a flexible material. In a cross-section perpendicular to the left-right direction, the shape of the electric wire 20 is string-like. With both ends of this string facing each other, the cross-sectional shape of the electric wire 20 is Y It is formed in the shape of a letter.

[0174] The covering member 21 has a covering body 211, a plurality (two in Figure 18) of rear ribs 212a, 212b, and a front rib 213a. The two covering members 21 are connected via a first connecting portion 22 and a second connecting portion 23. The first connecting portion 22 has the same configuration as the connecting portion 22 described above.

[0175] The rear rib 212a protrudes rearward from the rear side portion 2112 of the covering body 211. The rear rib 212b is provided spaced vertically relative to the rear rib 212a. The rear ribs 212b of each of the two trolley wires 2 face each other in the vertical direction. Each rear rib 212b includes a first protruding piece 2121 and a second protruding piece 2122. The first protruding piece 2121 protrudes from the rear side portion 2112 toward the other trolley wire 2. The second protruding piece 2122 protrudes rearward from the tip of the first protruding piece 2121.

[0176] The second connecting portion 23 connects the respective covering bodies 211 of the two covering members 21. The second connecting portion 23 is located in front of the covering body 211. A front rib 213b protrudes forward from the second connecting portion 23.

[0177] In this modified example 3, the trolley wire 2 is relatively long in the front-to-back direction due to the presence of the rear rib 212 and the front rib 213. Therefore, the possibility of the trolley wire 2 bending around an axis in the vertical direction is reduced.

[0178] In this modified example 3, the trolley wire 2 differs from the embodiment in the configuration of the electric wire 20, the rear rib 212, and the front rib 213. However, one or two of the configurations of the electric wire 20, the rear rib 212, and the front rib 213 may be the same as in the embodiment.

[0179] (Modification 4) The power supply device 1 according to Modification 4 will be described below with reference to Figure 19. Components similar to those in the embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted.

[0180] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the trolley wire 2 in a first section extending from the end of the electric wire 20. In the embodiment, the covering member 21 was completely removed in the first section. In contrast, in this modified example 4, only a portion of the covering member 21 is removed in the first section.

[0181] Similar to the embodiment, the covering member 21 includes a front portion 2111 and a rear portion 2112. The rear portion 2112 extends from behind the front portion 2111.

[0182] In the first section, the rear portion 2112 and the portion of the front portion 2111 near the rear portion 2112 have been stripped off (removed). The first section is a portion extending from the end of the electric wire 20, in which the electric wire 20 is sandwiched between the pair of arms 411 and 412 of the terminal portion 41.

[0183] The rear section 2112 is located in a section different from the first section. For example, the rear section 2112 is located in a second section adjacent to the first section. Alternatively, for example, the rear section 2112 is located in all sections except the first section.

[0184] In the first section, a portion of the electric wire 20 is covered by the front portion 2111, and the rear surface of the electric wire 20 is exposed. More specifically, as shown in Figure 19, in the first section, the rear surface of the contact portion 201 and the protruding portion 202 of the electric wire 20 are exposed. Note that the rear surface of the electric wire 20 is exposed if at least the rear end of the protruding portion 202 is exposed.

[0185] In this modified example 4, since the electric wire 20 is partially covered by the front part 2111 in the first section, the insulation distance between the electric wire 20 and the surrounding components can be extended compared to the case where the front part 2111 is absent.

[0186] In addition, in the first section, of the front section 2111 and the rear section 2112, only the rear section 2112, or only a part of the rear section 2112, may be removed.

[0187] (Other modifications of the embodiment) The following lists other modifications of the embodiment. These modifications may be implemented in appropriate combinations. Furthermore, these modifications may be implemented in appropriate combinations with the above-described modifications 1 to 4.

[0188] The power supply device 1 is not limited to a contact-type power supply device that supplies power to the mobile device 9 by making contact with it, but may also be a non-contact type power supply device that supplies power to the mobile device 9 without making contact with it.

[0189] The work of connecting the electric wire 20 to the terminals 41, 61, and 71 may be performed by machine rather than by human hands. Furthermore, this work may be performed at the factory where the power supply device 1 is manufactured, rather than at the facility where the power supply device 1 is installed.

[0190] The number of trolley wires 2 provided by the power supply device 1 may be one or two or more.

[0191] The number of rails 3 may be one or two or more.

[0192] Rail 3 may be a component of the power supply device 1.

[0193] The mobile device 9 moves along the rail 3. This rail 3 and the rail for fixing the trolley wire 2 may be separate components.

[0194] The number of supporters S1 provided by the power supply device 1 may be two or three or more.

[0195] The number of each component of the power supply device 1 is not limited to the number shown in the embodiment and can be changed as appropriate. For example, the first termination member 4 may have only one terminal portion 41 or three or more. Also, the covering member 21 may have only one rear rib 212 or three or more. Also, the covering member 21 may have only one front rib 213 or three or more. Furthermore, the body 60 of the first joint 6 may be formed from a single member, like the body 70 of the second joint 7. Also, the body 70 of the second joint 7 may have a first body and a second body, like the body 60 of the first joint 6.

[0196] Instead of the trolley wire 2 having its covering member 21 stripped off in the first section including the end and connected to the terminals 41, 61, and 71, the covering member 21 may be stripped off in a portion away from the end and connected to the terminals 41, 61, and 71.

[0197] The covering member 21 of the trolley wire 2 is not limited to being partially stripped off at the construction site of the power supply device 1 to expose the electric wire 20. The covering member 21 may be manufactured in a shape that exposes the electric wire 20 in advance in a portion of the section (first section) between both ends of the electric wire 20 in the left-right direction.

[0198] At least one of the multiple supporters S1 may be placed in a location other than the front of the rail 3. For example, at least one supporter S1 may be placed on the first side wall 32 or the second side wall 33 of the rail 3.

[0199] With respect to some of the supporters S1 among the multiple supporters S1, the configuration disclosed in the embodiment or modification can be appropriately applied to the other supporters S1. For example, the first end member 4 may have a configuration similar to that of the mounting piece 54 of the hanger 5 (see Figure 12). Also, for example, the terminal portion 71 of the second joint 7 may have a configuration similar to that of the protrusion 614 of the terminal portion 61 of the first joint 6 (see Figure 14).

[0200] The pair of arms 411 and 412 of the terminal portion 41 are not limited to a configuration that clamps only the protruding portion 202 of the electric wire 20. The pair of arms 411 and 412 may, for example, clamp the entire electric wire 20. The same applies to the other terminal portions 61 and 71.

[0201] The electric wire 20 may have a contact portion 201 but not necessarily a protruding portion 202. Furthermore, the electric wire 20 may, for example, have a circular cross-sectional shape.

[0202] Three or more trolley wires 2 may be connected to each other in the covering member 21. The three or more trolley wires 2 may be arranged in a vertical direction.

[0203] In some sections between the ends of the electric wire 20 in the left-right direction, at least a portion of the front rib 213 of the covering member 21 may be stripped off.

[0204] It is not mandatory for all components of the power supply device 1 to be provided as a single unit. For example, the connecting members of the power supply device 1 (first and second joints 6 and 7, or the first termination member 4) may be provided separately. Also, the trolley wire 2 of the power supply device 1 may be provided separately.

[0205] (summary) Based on the embodiments described above, the following aspects are disclosed.

[0206] The power supply device (1) according to the first embodiment supplies power to a mobile device (9). The mobile device (9) is movable along a rail (3). The power supply device (1) comprises a trolley wire (2) and a plurality of supporters (S1). The trolley wire (2) has an electric wire (20) and a covering member (21). The electric wire (20) is used as a power supply path to the mobile device (9) by being electrically connected to the mobile device (9). The covering member (21) has electrical insulation properties. The covering member (21) covers a portion of the electric wire (20). The plurality of supporters (S1) are arranged along the rail (3) and support the trolley wire (2). The covering member (21) covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire (20) and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire (20). The thickness (spacing I1) from the rear surface of the electric wire (20) to the rear end of the covering member (21) is greater than the width (W1 or W2) of the electric wire (20).

[0207] According to the above configuration, the spacing (I1) is longer than the width (W1 or W2), meaning that the trolley wire (2) is relatively long in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, the possibility of the trolley wire (2) bending is reduced.

[0208] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the covering member (21) has a covering body (211) and a rear rib (212). The covering body (211) covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire (20). The rear rib (212) protrudes rearward from the covering body (211).

[0209] According to the above configuration, since only a portion of the covering member (21) (the rear rib (212)) protrudes to the rear, the amount of material required for the covering member (21) can be reduced compared to the case where the entire covering member (21) extends to the rear (see Figure 17).

[0210] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the third embodiment, the covering member (21) has a plurality of rear ribs (212) as in the second embodiment.

[0211] According to the above configuration, the possibility of the trolley wire (2) bending is further reduced.

[0212] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the fourth embodiment, in the third embodiment, at least one of the plurality of supporters (S1) has an insertion portion (55). The insertion portion (55) is inserted between two adjacent rear ribs (212) from among the plurality of rear ribs (212).

[0213] According to the above configuration, the possibility of the trolley wire (2) bending is further reduced.

[0214] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the fifth embodiment, in any one of the first to fourth embodiments, the width of the electric wire (20) is the largest width (W1) among the widths of each region of the electric wire (20).

[0215] According to the above configuration, the possibility of the trolley wire (2) bending is reduced.

[0216] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the sixth embodiment, in any one of the first to fourth embodiments, the covering member (21) has a window (2011) that exposes the front surface of the electric wire (20). The electric wire (20) has a contact portion (201) and a protruding portion (202). The contact portion (201) is exposed from the window (2011). The protruding portion (202) protrudes rearward from the contact portion (201). The width of the electric wire (20) is the width (W2) of the protruding portion (202).

[0217] According to the above configuration, the possibility of the trolley wire (2) bending is reduced.

[0218] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the seventh embodiment, in the sixth embodiment, at least one of the plurality of supporters (S1) is a connecting member having terminal portions (41; 61; 71) that are electrically connected to the electric wire (20). The terminal portions (41; 61; 71) include a pair of arms (411, 412; 611, 612; 711, 712) that sandwich the protruding portion (202).

[0219] According to the above configuration, the electric wire (20) can be electrically connected to the terminal portions (41; 61; 71) of the connecting member, while the electric wire (20) can be supported by the connecting member.

[0220] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the eighth embodiment, in any one of the first to seventh embodiments, the covering member (21) has a covering body (211) and a front rib (213). The covering body (211) covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire (20). The front rib (213) protrudes forward from the covering body (211).

[0221] According to the above configuration, the possibility of the trolley wire (2) bending is further reduced.

[0222] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the ninth embodiment, as in the eighth embodiment, the covering body (211) has a window (2011) that exposes the front surface of the electric wire (20). The covering member (21) has a pair of front ribs (213). The pair of front ribs (213) protrude forward from the edge of the covering body (211) and extend in the longitudinal direction of the electric wire (20), facing each other. The edge of the covering body (211) forms a window (2011).

[0223] With the above configuration, the possibility of the trolley wire (2) bending is further reduced compared to the case where there is only one front rib (213). In addition, since a pair of front ribs (213) are provided on the edge of the window (2011), these pair of front ribs (213) prevent the worker's fingers or other body parts from moving closer to the electric wire (20). Therefore, the possibility of the worker's fingers or other body parts coming into contact with the electric wire (20) can be reduced.

[0224] Furthermore, the power supply device (1) according to the tenth embodiment includes a plurality of trolley wires (2), including the trolley wire (2) described above, in any one of the first to ninth embodiments. Two of the plurality of trolley wires (2) are arranged in parallel. The two trolley wires (2) are connected to each other by a covering member (21).

[0225] With the above configuration, workers can perform the task of supporting the trolley wire (2) with multiple supporters (S1) for two trolley wires (2) at once.

[0226] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the 11th embodiment, in the 10th embodiment, the covering member (21) of one of the two trolley wires (2) is a first covering member, and the covering member (21) of the other trolley wire (2) is a second covering member. Each of the first covering member and the second covering member has parallel windows (2011). The windows (2011) expose the front surface of the electric wire (20). The first covering member and the second covering member have a pair of opposing front ribs (213). The pair of front ribs (213) protrude forward from the edges of the covering members (21) that form the windows (2011) and extend in the longitudinal direction of the electric wire (20). Of the pair of front ribs (213), the front ribs (213U;213V) located inside the first and second covering members have a greater protrusion than the front ribs (213T;213W) located outside the first and second covering members.

[0227] According to the above configuration, the inwardly located front ribs (213U;213V) are provided between the window (2011) of the first covering member and the window (2011) of the second covering member. Therefore, the front ribs (213U;213V) extend the insulation distance between the two wires (20) of the two trolley wires (2). Furthermore, because the protrusion amount of the front ribs (213U;213V) is relatively large, the insulation distance becomes relatively long.

[0228] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the 12th embodiment, in any one of the 1st to 11th embodiments, the covering member (21) exposes the electric wire (20) in a portion of the section extending from the end of the electric wire (20). The covering member (21) includes a front portion (2111) and a rear portion (2112). The rear portion (2112) is located in a section different from the portion of the electric wire (20) and extends from behind the front portion (2111). In the portion, a part of the electric wire (20) is covered by the front portion (2111), and the rear surface of the electric wire (20) is exposed.

[0229] According to the above configuration, the insulation distance between the electric wire (20) and the surrounding components can be extended compared to the case where the front part (2111) is absent in the above-mentioned section.

[0230] Furthermore, in the power supply device (1) according to the 13th embodiment, in any one of the 1st to 12th embodiments, at least one of the plurality of supporters (S1) has a terminal portion (41; 61; 71) and a body (40; 60; 70). The terminal portion (41; 61; 71) is electrically connected to the electric wire (20). The body (40; 60; 70) holds the terminal portion (41; 61; 71). The terminal portion (41; 61; 71) has a pair of arms (411, 412; 611, 612; 711, 712) and an opening (OP1). The opening (OP1) is provided between a pair of arms (411, 412; 611, 612; 711, 712), and the opening distance is changed by an external force applied between the pair of arms (411, 412; 611, 612; 711, 712). The pair of arms (411, 412; 611, 612; 711, 712) grip the electric wire (20) inserted into the opening (OP1) from the front of the opening (OP1) by changing the opening distance of the opening (OP1).

[0231] According to the above configuration, workers can insert the electric wire (20) of the trolley wire (2) into the opening (OP1) from the front, thereby sandwiching the electric wire (20) between the pair of arms (411, 412, 611, 612, 711, 712) of the terminal section (41, 61, 71) and electrically connecting the electric wire (20) to the terminal section (41, 61, 71). In this way, the work of installing the trolley wire (2) can be simplified.

[0232] Configurations other than those in the first embodiment are not essential to the power supply device (1) and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0233] Furthermore, the trolley wire (2) according to the 14th embodiment is used in a power supply device (1) according to any one of the 1st to 13th embodiments.

[0234] According to the above configuration, the possibility of the trolley wire (2) bending is reduced. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0235] 1. Power supply device 2 Trolley wires 3 rails 9 Mobile equipment 20 Electric wire 21 Covering member 40, 60, 70 body 41, 61, 71 terminal section 55 Insertion part 201 Contact Section 202 Protrusion 211 Covering body 212 Rear rib 411, 412 Arm 611, 612 Arm 711, 712 Arm 2011 Window 2111 Front side 2112 Rear side I1 Spacing (thickness) OP1 Opening / Closing S1 Supporter W1, W2 width

Claims

1. A power supply device that supplies power to mobile equipment that can move along rails, A trolley wire having an electric wire used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device, and a covering member that has electrical insulation properties and covers a part of the electric wire, The system comprises a plurality of supporters arranged along the rail and supporting the trolley wire, The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness of the electric wire from the rear surface to the rear end of the covering member is longer than the width of the electric wire. The covering member is At least a covering body that covers the rear surface of the electric wire, Having a front rib that protrudes forward from the covering body, Power supply device.

2. A power supply device that supplies power to a mobile device that can move along a rail, A trolley wire having an electric wire used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device, and a covering member that has electrical insulation properties and covers a part of the electric wire, The system comprises a plurality of supporters arranged along the rail and supporting the trolley wire, The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness of the electric wire from the rear surface to the rear end of the covering member is longer than the width of the electric wire. The covering member is At least a covering body that covers the rear surface of the electric wire, It has a plurality of rear ribs that protrude rearward from the covering body, At least one of the plurality of supporters has an insertion portion that is inserted between two adjacent rear ribs among the plurality of rear ribs. Power supply device.

3. A power supply device that supplies power to a mobile device that can move along a rail, A trolley wire having an electric wire used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device, and a covering member that has electrical insulation properties and covers a part of the electric wire, The system comprises a plurality of supporters arranged along the rail and supporting the trolley wire, The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness of the electric wire from the rear surface to the rear end of the covering member is longer than the width of the electric wire. The covering member has a window that exposes the front surface of the electric wire, The aforementioned electric wire is The contact portion exposed from the aforementioned window, It has a protruding portion that extends rearward from the contact portion, The width of the electric wire is the width of the protruding portion. At least one of the plurality of supporters is a connecting member having a terminal portion that is electrically connected to the electric wire. The terminal portion includes a pair of arms that sandwich the protruding portion, Power supply device.

4. A power supply device that supplies power to a mobile device that can move along a rail, A plurality of trolley wires, including a trolley wire having an electric wire used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device, and a covering member having electrical insulation properties and covering a part of the electric wire, The system comprises a plurality of supporters arranged along the rail and supporting the trolley wire, The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness of the electric wire from the rear surface to the rear end of the covering member is longer than the width of the electric wire. Of the aforementioned multiple trolley wires, two are arranged in parallel. The two trolley wires are connected to each other in the covering member. The covering member of one of the two trolley wires is the first covering member, and the covering member of the other trolley wire is the second covering member. Each of the first covering member and the second covering member has windows arranged in parallel, which expose the front surface of the electric wire. The first covering member and the second covering member have a pair of forward ribs that protrude forward from the edge of the covering member forming the window, extend in the longitudinal direction of the electric wire, and face each other. The pair of front ribs have a greater protrusion amount for the front rib located on the inside than for the front ribs located on the outside of the first and second covering members. Power supply device.

5. A power supply device that supplies power to a mobile device that can move along a rail, A trolley wire having an electric wire used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device, and a covering member that has electrical insulation properties and covers a part of the electric wire, The system comprises a plurality of supporters arranged along the rail and supporting the trolley wire, The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness of the electric wire from the rear surface to the rear end of the covering member is longer than the width of the electric wire. The covering member exposes the electric wire in a portion of the section extending from the end of the electric wire. The covering member includes a front portion and a rear portion that is located in a section different from the aforementioned section of the electric wire and extends from behind the front portion. In the aforementioned section, a portion of the electric wire is covered by the front portion, and the rear portion of the electric wire is exposed. Power supply device.

6. A power supply device that supplies power to a mobile device that can move along a rail, A trolley wire having an electric wire used as a power supply path to the mobile device by being electrically connected to the mobile device, and a covering member that has electrical insulation properties and covers a part of the electric wire, The system comprises a plurality of supporters arranged along the rail and supporting the trolley wire, The covering member covers at least the rear surface of the electric wire and protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the electric wire. The thickness of the electric wire from the rear surface to the rear end of the covering member is longer than the width of the electric wire. At least one of the plurality of supporters has a terminal portion electrically connected to the electric wire and a body that holds the terminal portion. The terminal section comprises a pair of arms and an opening provided between the pair of arms, which changes the opening distance in response to an external force applied between the pair of arms. The pair of arms grip the electric wire inserted into the opening from the front of the opening, changing the opening distance of the opening. Power supply device.

7. The width of the electric wire is the largest width among the widths of each region of the electric wire. A power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The covering body has a window that exposes the front surface of the electric wire, The covering member has a pair of front ribs, The pair of front ribs protrude forward from the edge of the covering body that forms the window, and extend in the longitudinal direction of the electric wire, facing each other. The power supply device according to claim 1.

9. A power supply device used in any one of claims 1 to 6, Trolley wire.

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