A proposal for a servoactuated pantograph able to reduce the mean value of contact force

The paper describes the results of research activities developed by the team of UNIFI and Trenitalia researches on railways electric captation. The main objective of the research into collection systems remains the limitation of losses of contact, as these determine the momentary interruption of traction and the concomitant formation of electric arcs that not only may damage the electric line and the vary devices of collection, but also cause electromagnetic emissions that can create interference with the electronic devices installed on board, thereby jeopardizing safety.