Development of contactless measurement device for overhead contact line

Abstract

In order to reduce maintenance labor of overhead contact lines (OCL), a contactless measurement device for OCL was developed. This device is mounted on a roof of a vehicle of a train and measures static three-dimensional positions of wires of OCL and detects positions of OCL fittings without touching the OCL while the train is running. We proposed hybrid sensing method that combines stereo measurement by image processing with structure measurement by laser range scanners and it realized to measure OCL geometry with high-precision even in sections with complicated OCL structure. In addition, we developed position detection method of the OCL fittings that can cope with changes in height and stagger of OCL by using machine learning. Measurement data of OCL contactless measurement device is static position of OCL without influence of a probe such as a pantograph. With this device, the OCL static position can be measured continuously instead of at each support point or dropper point. For maintenance of OCL, the criterion of OCL is defined as a static position. The device is utilizable for OCL maintenance and it sophisticate maintenance of OCL. For example, this device realize the height difference measurement of the crossing section, which has been conventionally measured by maintenance workers. In addition, the device are utilizable for OCL fittings inspection. Maintenance workers can check the image of OCL fittings without on foot into the field. Furthermore the static position data of OCL can be used to create simulation model of OCL dynamic behavior. Using this model, it is possible to know the dynamic response of cases where various pantographs pass at various speeds. Running tests was conducted on commercial line, and the performance of the device was verified when running at a speed of 130 km/h. The results shown that the repeated measurement accuracy is within 10 mm, and the OCL fitting detection rate is 90 % or more.

Novel Vision Monitoring Method Based on Multi Light Points for Space-Time Analysis of Overhead Contact Line Displacements

“…Various diagnostic and monitoring systems are developed to keep OCL in proper technical condition during operation [ 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 ]. The search for reliable, safe, inexpensive, and precise measuring and monitoring methods is still ongoing [ 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 ].…”

“…Another stereo vision method proposed for measuring only the static geometry of OCL is described in [ 8 , 9 , 14 , 15 , 36 ].…”