Insights into catenary geometry
Non-contact measurement of contact wire height and stagger
What is Plasser CatenaryGeometry?
Plasser CatenaryGeometry is a modular, non-contact measuring system for contact wire height, stagger, and gradient. Depending on the application, it can be configured with optical or radar-based technologies to detect, track, and classify overhead wires and cables, measuring the contact wire and carrying cable positions relative to the track centreline and running surface. Localized geometry data supports real-time threshold checks, comparison against reference geometry data, mast-based span analysis, maintenance assessment, and integration with other overhead contact line diagnostic systems.
Benefits
- Automated high-speed inspection of the overhead contact line
- Earlier detection of geometry deviations
- Technology tailored to operating conditions
- Maintenance-free radar technology
- Reduced need for manual inspections
- Unattended monitoring
Contact wire position measurement
Plasser CatenaryGeometry measures the horizontal and vertical position of overhead wires and cables, providing contact wire height, stagger, and gradient information. Dedicated algorithms identify, track, and classify detected wires and cables, distinguishing contact wires from messenger and carrying cables and other wires. Plasser CatenaryGeometry can provide additional insights and analyses, including mast position detection for span-based stagger sweep calculation, overhead crossing line arrangements, and relative distance between two contact wires.
Configurable sensing technologies
The system can be configured with optical laser scanner or radar sensor technology. The laser-based solution supports high-speed measurement of multiple wires and cables, while the radar-based solution provides robust contact wire detection without being affected by weather, dirt, and light conditions, making it suitable for low-maintenance and unattended applications.
Real-time geometry assessment
Contact wire geometry parameters are calculated and displayed during the measuring run. Height and stagger values can be compared with customer-defined thresholds and, if available, with design data or as-built installation measurements. Each data point is associated with localization information, supporting deviation analysis, maintenance follow-up, and reporting.
Integrated overhead contact line diagnostics
Plasser CatenaryGeometry can operate as a dedicated measuring system or as part of an integrated overhead contact line diagnostic package. Geometry data can be combined with contact wire wear measurement and visual inspection data to support a more complete assessment of the overhead contact line condition.
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