Study of the computational performance of different models for pantograph/catenary dynamics

Abstract

The pantograph/catenary dynamics is one of the most important fields to study when it comes to improvement of the designs of electric trains. The dynamic interaction between the pantograph and the catenary is a decisive criterion for the development of efficient pantograph/catenary system in terms of mainteinance and for the maximum train speed. Several mathematical models, which deal with the analysis of the contact force between the pantograph and the catenary, have been proposed using different techniques to solve the issue. The main aim of this thesis is to provide a study that contains the computational performance of each model and its accuracy. A detailed study of a few relevant models is carried out and its comparison using different solvers is shown. Furthermore, the merits and demerits of each model are provided and a decision on the best performing model is given.