Pantograph Automatic Connection via Stereo-Optical Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trolleybus systems lack the flexibility to automatically connect and disconnect from overhead lines while in motion, due to unpredictable wire positions and the need for manual intervention, limiting their use in urban environments and increasing maintenance complexity.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising digital cameras, actuators, and an electronic control system that uses stereo-optical pattern recognition and dynamic target tracking to automatically connect and disconnect pantographs from overhead lines, allowing for precise positioning and movement control of the current collectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual intervention is used to connect and disconnect pantographs from overhead lines, then operational flexibility is reduced and maintenance complexity increases, but the system is simpler and more reliable without automated components
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic connection and disconnection of pantographs without manual intervention. The control system autonomously actuates the pantographs based on detected overhead line positions, allowing the vehicle to service itself during operation and thereby increasing operational flexibility while reducing maintenance burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated control system that uses optical detection (cameras) and electronic control to actuate pantographs. This substitution of manual mechanical systems with automated electromechanical systems resolves the contradiction by enabling flexible automated operation while managing complexity through integration.
2Reliability
If continuous overhead line supply is used throughout the route, then energy supply is reliable, but aesthetic restrictions increase and cable network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the energy supply system by allowing the vehicle to connect to overhead lines only on sections where they are present, rather than requiring continuous overhead line coverage throughout the entire route. This segmentation enables wireless operation on certain sections while maintaining reliable wired supply on others, reducing cable network complexity and aesthetic restrictions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the connection state of pantographs based on the vehicle's position and detected overhead line availability. The control system automatically connects when overhead lines are detected and disconnects when they are not, enabling adaptive energy supply that maintains reliability where needed while reducing infrastructure complexity elsewhere.
3Extent of automation
If automated pantograph connection is implemented, then operational flexibility increases, but the system requires precise detection and control capabilities that increase complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that bridges the gap between optical detection (cameras detecting overhead line positions) and mechanical actuation (pantograph movement). This intermediary layer processes detection data and generates appropriate actuation commands, enabling automated operation while managing the complexity of coordinating multiple subsystems through a centralized control architecture.
4Productivity
If the overhead line position is not precisely predictable, then manual connection is required, but this reduces productivity and increases loss of time
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback through optical detection (cameras) that continuously monitor the positions of overhead lines and pantographs. The control system uses this real-time feedback information to adjust actuation commands and ensure accurate connection despite variations in overhead line positioning. This feedback mechanism enables automated operation without requiring precisely predictable overhead line positions, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining ease of operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables fully automatic and reliable connection and disconnection of pantographs while driving, enhancing operational flexibility, reducing maintenance, and allowing for efficient energy use by maximizing overhead line contact time without manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
stereo-optical pattern recognition and dynamic target tracking
Implementation Method 2
stereo-optical pattern recognition and dynamic target tracking
Implementation Method 3
at least one actuator that moves the pantograph
Implementation Method 4
The contact shoes are pressed onto the overhead lines via the rods by a force directed vertically upwards, so that the electrical contact is continuously maintained during the wiring phase.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and device for automatically connecting and disconnecting a current collector of a vehicle which is designed for operating with an overhead line. The invention specifies a device and a method for automatically connecting and disconnecting at least one current collector (3) of a vehicle which is designed for operation with at least one overhead line (1). The device comprises at least one actuator (9), which moves the current collector (3), and at least one image-capturing and image-evaluation unit (6 and 7), which controls the actuator (9) in such a way that the current collector (3) is connected or disconnected to or from the overhead line (1). The invention provides the advantage that current collectors of a vehicle can be reliably and securely connected and disconnected to and from an overhead line in an automatic fashion.