Description: PantoCat is dynamic analysis code able to analyze models of the complete overhead energy collecting systems that include all mechanical details of the pantographs and the complete topology and structural details of the catenary. PantoCat is a code based on finite elements method, for the catenary, and on multibody dynamics methods, for the pantograph, integrated via a co-simulation procedure. A contact model based on a penalty formulation is selected to represent the pantograph-catenary interaction. PantoCat enables models of catenaries with multiple sections, including their overlap, gradients, neutral sections and curves, the operation of multiple pantographs and the use of any complex loading of the catenary or pantograph mechanical elements including aerodynamic effects. The models of the pantograph and catenary are fully spatial being simulated in tangential or curved tracks, with or without irregularities and perturbations. User-friendly interfaces facilitate the construction of the models while the post-processing facilities provide all quantities of interest of the system response according to the norms and industrial requirements. PantoCat is validated under the norm EN50318:2018 and it is currently being certified by the United Kingdom Certification Body for Railway.

Applications: Railway Dynamics; Virtual Homologation; Overhead Contact Line Design; Interoperability