The relationship between contact force fluctuation and pantograph compliance characteristics is complicated under the condition of catenary suspension lines, because it depends not only on the pantograph characteristics but also on the wave propagation characteristics of contact lines. This paper describes the influence of pantograph compliance characteristics on the contact force fluctuation between pantograph and contact line. In this study, the factors of contact force fluctuation are theoretically analyzed and verified by the computer simulation method. It is confirmed that the contact force fluctuation is proportional to the series mechanical impedance of pantograph and contact line. In order to reduce the contact force fluctuation, it is effective to decrease the series mechanical impedance at the frequency corresponding to the hanger span cycle or the dropper span cycle.

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