Computerised systems for catenary geometry assessment

摘要

The paper deals with the development of the mobile diagnostic computerised systems adopted by the Italian State Railways (Ferrovie dello Stato = FS) for the automatic monitoring of contact lines and the relevant expected performances. In particular it refers to a new system providing the main geometrical data of the catenary, by using a special motor trolley, which performs continuous measurements while running. A great importance is given to the innovative measurement system of the residual thickness of the contact wires, which is able to check more than four conductors at the same time. The common employ of this new trolley and relevant computerized system in Italian railway electrified lines will produce a great improvement in the planning of catenaries maintenance and management. In particular, by using this mobile diagnostic, it is possible to organise better the working opcrations to be done during breaks in the track, improving the regularity of the train traffic mainly in high-speed running lines. The FS strategies on the extension of this type of systems and an estimation about the cost reduction expected are given, together with the aims of the development of similar monitoring systems.