Research of the following-performance of high-speed pantograph based on transfer function

With the increase in train operating speeds, the requirements for the dynamic performance of the train pantograph and catenary system are continuously rising. The following-performance, as one of the key dynamic indicators, directly affects the dynamic contact performance and current collection quality of the pantograph and catenary system. To clarify the mechanism of how the following-performance of high-speed pantograph varies with its parameters and to improve the dynamic performance of the pantograph and catenary system, the transfer function of a three mass equivalent model of the pantograph was first derived. Based on this, a new mathematical theoretical model reflecting the following-performance of the pantograph was established for the first time. The rationality of the model was proved by comparing the results between numerical simulation and bench scale test. Finally, by using this model, the influence of followability under excitation frequencies ranging from 1.5 to 12 Hz was investigated through simulation calculations, theoretical derivations, and sensitivity analysis. The study reveals that the maximum value of following-performance occurs at the anti-resonance frequency, which corresponds to the second-order natural frequency range. The equivalent mass, stiffness, and damping of bow head and upper frame, as well as equivalent stiffness of lower frame, is negatively correlated with following-performance, while the equivalent mass and damping of the lower frame are positively correlated with following-performance. The equivalent mass of the bow head and frame is negatively correlated with the frequency at extreme of following-performance, whereas the equivalent stiffness is positively correlated with this frequency at extreme of following-performance. Sensitivity analysis shows that the equivalent mass of the bow head and frame has a significant impact on the following-performance. The order of magnitude of change rate is between 100 and 101. Followed by equivalent damping, of which the order of magnitude of change rate is between10−2 and 10−1. The equivalent stiffness has the least impact, with change rates generally below 10−3, and the equivalent stiffness of the lower frame has almost no effect on following-performance. The findings establish a more accurate mathematical model for pantograph following-performance. The influence and ratio of following-performance by changing equivalent parameters of pantograph was presented in detail as well, which provides a theoretical reference for further optimization of the following-performance. © 2025, Central South University Press. All rights reserved.