Overview
Given the high costs related to the homologation processes of rolling stock, this project proposed the design and assembly of a Hardware-In-the-Loop (HIL) test bench to simulate the dynamic interaction between pantograph and catenary. The latter was replaced by a virtual finite element model, which was solved in real time, and a linear actuator that reproduced the position of the contact point on the pantograph. For this, it was necessary to have catenary models that were as realistic as possible and whose dynamic resolution had a very low computational cost. The aim of this methodology was to contribute to the reduction of pantograph homologation costs by conducting laboratory tests.
Funding
Results
The following results were achieved in this project: (i) Algorithm for solving the dynamics of catenaries in real time using a modal approach and an offline / online strategy. (ii) Modeling and optimization of sectioning in high speed rail catenaries. (iii) Preparation of catenary analytical models for application in HIL tests. (iv) Design, construction and development of a test bench HIL pantograph and the associated control system. With the results obtained, it was possible to carry out HIL tests of pantographs with virtual catenaries obtaining a very high precision in the results.