WO2021067556A1

WO2021067556A1 - Wire support

Info

Publication number: WO2021067556A1
Application number: PCT/US2020/053734
Authority: WO
Inventors: Cameron Joseph CLINES; Jacob Jeffrey PALMER; Benjamin Franklin CIESIELCZYK
Original assignee: Preformed Line Products Co.
Priority date: 2019-10-01
Filing date: 2020-10-01
Publication date: 2021-04-08

Abstract

A dropper line includes a dropper wire extending from a first link point to a second link point. A first connection device connects the first link point to a messenger wire and a second connection device connects the second link point to a contact wire. A wire support structure connects to the first connection device at an upper end and connects to the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point. The first support point and the second support point lie between the first link point and the second link point. The dropper wire has a wire portion between the first support point and the first link point, such that the wire portion is above the first support point.

Description

WIRE SUPPORT

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/909,109 filed on October 1, 2019, entitled “WIRE SUPPORT,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The instant disclosure is generally directed toward a wire support. For example, the instant disclosure is directed toward a catenary dropper line employing a helical wire support.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Dropper lines can be used in catenary systems (e.g., electric railway or other electric transportation types) to suspend a contact wire from a messenger wire. As such, dropper lines are commonly used in electric-powered railroad environments to conduct electrical power from a distribution system to the contact wire which then contacts a portion of a rail car to transfer electrical power to the rail car. Dropper lines can be subject to the effects of cyclical stresses caused by both passing pantographs and vibration which can lead to dropper line failure.

SUMMARY

[0004] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key factors or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] In some examples, a dropper line includes a dropper wire extending from a first connector to a second connector. The first connector is connected to the dropper wire at a first link point, and the second connector is connected to the dropper wire at a second link point. The dropper line also includes a first connection device connected to the first connector. The first connection device includes a first connection point for connection to a messenger wire, a second connection point for connection to the first connector, and a third connection point. The dropper line further incudes a jumper wire extending from a first jumper end to a second jumper end. The first jumper end is connected to the first connector. The second jumper end is connected to the third connection point such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the messenger wire. The dropper line still further includes a second connection device connected to the second connector. The second connection device connects the dropper wire to a contact wire such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire. The dropper line also includes a wire support structure connected to the second connection point at a first support end. The wire support structure is connected to the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point at a second support end. The first support point and the second support point are between the first link point and the second link point. The dropper wire has a wire portion between the first support point and the first link point, such that the wire portion is above the first support point.

[0006] In some examples, a dropper line includes a dropper wire extending from a first end point to a second end point. The dropper line also includes a first end connector connected to the dropper wire at the first end point. The dropper line further includes a second end connector connected to the dropper wire at the second end point. The dropper line still further includes a first connection device connected to the first end connector. The first connection device includes a first connection point for connection to a messenger wire, a second connection point; and a third connection point for connection to the first end connector such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the messenger wire. The dropper line also includes a second connection device connected to the second end connector. The second connection device connects the dropper wire to a contact wire such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire. The dropper line further includes a wire support structure. The wire support structure is connected to the second connection point at a first support end and connected to the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point at a second support end. The first support point and the second support point are between the first end point and the second end point. The dropper wire includes a first portion between the first support point and the second support point. The dropper wire also includes a second portion between the second support point and the second end point. The dropper wire further includes a third portion between the first support point and the first end point. A weight of the first portion and the second portion is borne solely by the wire support structure between the first portion and the first connection device.

[0007] In some examples, a dropper line includes a dropper wire extending from a first end point to a second end point. The dropper line also includes a first end connector connected to the dropper wire at the first end point. The dropper line further includes a second end connector connected to the dropper wire at the second end point. The dropper line still further includes a first connection device connected to the first end connector. The first connection device includes a first connection point for connection to a messenger wire, a second connection point, and a third connection point for connection to the first end connector such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the messenger wire. The dropper line also includes a second connection device connected to the second end connector. The second connection device connects the dropper wire to a contact wire such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire. The dropper line further includes a wire support structure. The wire support structure is connected to the second connection point at a first support end and connected to the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point at a second support end. The first support point and the second support point are between the first end point and the second end point. The dropper wire includes a first portion between the first support point and the second support point. The dropper wire also includes a second portion between the second support point and the second end point. The dropper wire further includes a third portion between the first support point and the first end point. A weight of the first portion and the second portion is borne solely by the wire support structure between the first portion and the first connection device.

[0008] In some examples, a dropper line includes a dropper wire extending from a first connector to a second connector. The first connector is connected to the dropper wire at a first link point while the second connector is connected to the dropper wire at a second link point. The dropper line also includes a first connection device connected to the first connector. The first connection device includes a first connection point for connection to a messenger wire. The first connection device also includes a second connection point for connection to the first connector. The first connection device further includes a third connection point. The dropper line further includes a jumper wire extending from a first jumper end to a second jumper end. The first jumper end is connected to the first connector while the second jumper end is connected to the third connection point such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the messenger wire. The dropper line still further includes a second connection device connected to the second connector to connect the dropper wire to a contact wire such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire. The dropper line also includes a wire support structur connected to the second connection point at a first support end. The wire support structure includes a first helical winding and a second helical winding wound around the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point at the second support end. The first support point and the second support point are between the first link point and the second link point. The dropper wire includes a wire portion between the first support point and the first link point such that the wire portion is above the first support point.

[0009] In some examples, a dropper line includes a dropper wire extending from a first end point to a second end point. The dropper line also includes a first end connector connected to the dropper wire at the first end point. The dropper line further includes a second end connector connected to the dropper wire at the second end point. The dropper line still further includes a first connection device connected to the first end connector. The first connection device includes a first connection point for connection to a messenger wire. The first connection device also includes a second connection point. The first connection device further includes a third connection point for connection to the first end connector such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the messenger wire. The dropper line also includes a second connection device connected to the second end connector for connection of the dropper wire to a contact wire such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire. The dropper line further includes a wire support structure connected to the second connection point at a first support end. The wire support structure includes a first helical winding and a second helical winding wound around the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point. The first support point and the second support point are between the first end point and the second end point. The dropper wire includes a first portion between the first support point and the second support point. The dropper wire also includes a second portion between the second support point and the second end point. The dropper wire further includes a third portion between the first support point and the first end point. A weight of the first portion and the second portion is borne solely by the wire support structure between the first portion and the first connection device.

[0010] In some examples, a dropper line includes a dropper wire extending from a first link point to a second link point. The dropper line also includes a first connection device connecting the first link point to a messenger wire. The dropper line further includes a second connection device connecting the second link point to a contact wire. The dropper line still further includes a wire support structure connected to the first connection device at an upper end and connected to the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point. The first support point and the second support point are between the first link point and the second link point. The dropper wire having a wire portion between the first support point and the first link point, such that the wire portion is above the first support point.

[0011] In some examples, a dropper line includes a dropper wire extending from a first end point to a second end point. The dropper line also includes a first connection device connecting the first end point to a messenger wire. The dropper line further includes a second connection device connecting the second end point to a contact wire. The dropper line still further includes a wire support structure connected to the first connection device at an upper end and connected to the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point. The first support point and the second support point are between the first end point and the second end point. The dropper wire includes a first portion between the first support point and the second support point. The dropper wire also includes a second portion between the second support point and the second end point. The dropper wire further includes a third portion between the first support point and the first end point. A weight of the dropper wire from the first portion of the dropper wire to the second end point of the dropper wire is borne by the wire support structure between the first portion and the first connection device.

[0012] In some examples, a method of supporting a dropper line having a dropper wire extending from a first connector to a second connector includes connecting a wire support structure to a first connection device connecting the dropper line to a messenger wire. The method also includes wrapping a first helical winding and a second helical winding of the wire support structure around a first portion of the dropper wire between the first connector and the second connector such that weight of the dropper line from the first portion of the dropper line to the second connector is borne at the first connection device.

[0013] The following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects can be employed. Other aspects, advantages, and/or novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a catenary system according to some embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a dropper line according to some embodiments;

[0016] FIG. 3 is a detail view of a helical wire support according to some embodiments;

[0017] FIG. 4 is a detail view of a dropper line according to some embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 5 is a detail view of a dropper line according to some embodiments;

[0019] FIG. 6 is a detail view of a dropper line according to some embodiments;

[0020] FIG. 7 is a detail view of a dropper line according to some embodiments;

[0021] FIG. 8 is a detail view of a dropper line according to some embodiments;

[0022] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a dropper line according to some embodiments;

[0023] FIG. 10 is a detail view of a dropper line according to some embodiments;

[0024] FIG. 11 is a detail view of a dropper line according to some embodiments;

[0025] FIG. 12 is detail view of a dropper line according to some embodiments; and [0026] FIG. 13 is a detail view of a dropper line according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the claimed subject matter. It is evident, however, that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are illustrated in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter. Relative size, orientation, etc. of parts, components, etc. may differ from that which is illustrated while not falling outside of the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of an electric railway catenary system is illustrated. The catenary system includes support poles, a messenger wire, and dropper lines that suspend a contact wire from the messenger wire. In some examples, the messenger wire delivers electrical power from an electrical distribution system (not shown), through the dropper lines, and to the contact wire. The catenary system suspends the contact wire over a railroad track such that equipment (e.g., a pantograph) located on a rail car (e.g., an electric locomotive) can be in sliding electrical communication with the contact wire such that the rail car is provided electrical power through the catenary system. Of course, catenary systems for other transportation modes are also contemplated, such as electrified trolleys, buses, etc., and the electric railway is but one example of a possible application of the devices and methods described in the present disclosure.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 2, a dropper line 100 is illustrated. In some examples, a first end of the dropper line is connected to a messenger wire of a railway catenary system. A second end is connected to a contact wire in order to suspend the contact wire from the messenger wire. In some examples, each of the messenger wire, the dropper line and the contact wire are each electrically conductive in order to transfer electrical power as noted above. Railway cars such as electric locomotives can include a pantograph device extending upward from an upper surface of the railway car to contact the contact wire to receive electrical power from the catenary. [0030] The dropper line 100 includes a dropper wire 102 extending from a first end point 166 to a second end point 168 (shown in FIG. 7). A first end connector 170 can be connected to the dropper wire 102 at the first end point 166, and the first end connector 170 can include a crimped connection as shown in the figures. However, any suitable connection device is contemplated. A second end connector 172 (shown in FIG. 7) can be connected to the dropper wire 102 at the second end point 168.

[0031] A first connection device 112 can be connected to the first end connector 170. The first connection device 112 is configured to connect the dropper line 100 to the messenger wire shown in FIG. 1. The first connection device 112 includes a first connection point 114 for connection to the messenger wire. The first connection device 112 includes a second connection point 118 and a third connection point 120 for connection to the first end connector 170 such that the dropper wire 102 is in electrical communication with the messenger wire. In some examples, each of the first connection device 112, the dropper wire 102, and the first end connector 170 are each electrically conductive in order to provide electrical communication between the messenger wire and the contact wire.

[0032] In some examples, although not necessary, the first connection point 114 can be the interior of a U-shaped structure. Similarly, the second connection point 118 can also be the interior of a U-shaped structure. These two U-shaped structures can be placed together at their open ends and attached to one another to provide an open space enabling a messenger wire to pass through the first connection point 114. In some examples, a threaded fastener joins the two U-shaped structures and can provide a third connection point 120 for connection to the first end connector 170.

[0033] The dropper line 100 includes a second connection device 128 (shown in FIG. 7) connected to the second end connector 172. The second connection device 128 connects the dropper wire 102 to a contact wire such that the dropper wire 102 is in electrical communication with the contact wire. FIG. 2 illustrates one example of a lower end (e.g., the end that connects to the contact wire) of the dropper line 100, but FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate that in some examples, the second end of the dropper line 100 approximates a mirror image of the first end (e.g., the end that connects to the messenger wire). [0034] Returning to FIG. 2, the dropper line 100 includes a wire support structure 130 connected to the second connection point 118 at a first support end 132. The wire support structure 130 can also be connected to the dropper wire 102 from a first support point 134 to a second support point 136 at a second support end 138. In some examples, the first support point 134 and the second support point 136 are between the first end point 166 and the second end point 168. In some examples, the dropper wire 102 includes a first portion 174 between the first support point 134 and the second support point 136. This first portion 174 is supported by a relatively long length of the wire support structure 130 as opposed to having support only at a crimped connection. This can provide greater flexibility of the connection between any support structure and the dropper wire 102. Further benefits will be described below.

[0035] The dropper wire 102 also includes a second portion 176 between the second support point 136 and the second end point 168. The dropper wire 102 further includes a third portion 178 between the first support point 134 and the first end point 166. As shown in FIG. 4, the wire support structure 130 grips the dropper wire 102 and connects to the second connection point 118 of the first connection device 112 such that the weight of the first portion 174 and the second portion 176 is borne solely by the wire support structure 130 between the first portion 174 and the first connection device 112. As shown in FIG. 4, this relationship can enable the third portion 178 to bear relatively little weight, or no weight, from the first portion 174 and the second portion 176. As such, the third portion 178 and the first end connector 170 can serve as the primary electrical conduction between the dropper wire 102 and the messenger wire. This eliminates the third portion 178 having to bear the described weight loading and relatively large stresses that can develop if the wire support structure 130 were not present. In some previous examples of dropper lines, a relatively rigid connection between dropper wires and a connection device were relatively rigid crimped connections that substantially increased stresses within the dropper wires during cyclic loading from vibration and/or up and down motion caused by a railway car pantograph pushing upward on the contact wire at each passing.

[0036] Referring to FIG. 3, the wire support structure 300 is illustrated comprising a first support portion 302, a second support portion 310, and a third support portion 320. The wire support structure 300 may comprise one or more strands that, together, comprise the first support portion 302, the second support portion 310, and the third support portion 320. In some examples, the strands may comprise a support member (e.g., a wire, a metal wire, etc.) that is circumferentially surrounded by a jacket (e.g., a non-conductive or semiconductor material). It will be appreciated that any number of strands (e.g., one or more) can be provided. The strands can have at least some degree of rigidity, stiffness, firmness, etc., such that the wire support structure 300 is resistant to inadvertent bending forces or the like. In some examples, the strands can be relatively loosely wound together to provide a desired amount of flexibility for the wire support structure 300. Similarly, in some examples, the wire support structure 300 can include fewer strands to provide a desired amount of flexibility for the wire support structure 300. The amount of flexibility of the wire support structure 300 can be engineered, selected, etc. to help reduce or eliminate metal fatigue of the dropper wire 102 (shown in FIG. 2) as the dropper wire 102 cyclically moves due to external forces.

[0037] In some examples, the first support portion 302 can extend along a non linear axis between a first end 304 and a second end 306. In some examples, the first support portion 302 comprises a bend located between the first end 304 and the second end 306. Due to the bend and the non-linear shape, the first support portion 302 can have a U-shape. The first support portion 302 can define a support opening 308 through which the first support portion 302 is configured to receive an attachment structure. In some examples, a portion of an attachment structure can extend partially and/or completely through the support opening 308. The attachment structure can grip, hold, wrap around, receive, and/or engage the first support portion 302. As such, the attachment structure can support the wire support structure 300.

[0038] The second support portion 310 is attached to the first end 304 of the first support portion 302. The second support portion 310 has a first helical winding 312 that defines a first axial opening 314. In some examples, the second support portion 310 can extend along a second support axis, with the first helical winding 312 helically winding about the second support axis. The first helical winding 312 can define one or more spaces between neighboring helical winds.

[0039] The third support portion 320 is attached to the second end 306 of the first support portion 302. The third support portion 320 has a second helical winding 322 that defines a second axial opening 324. In some examples, the third support portion 320 can extend along a third support axis, with the second helical winding 322 helically winding about the third support axis. The second helical winding 322 can define one or more spaces between neighboring helical winds.

[0040] In some examples, the first helical winding 312 and the second helical winding 322 are configured to engage one another such that the first axial opening 314 and the second axial opening 324 may be axially aligned to define an axial support opening 330 into which the dropper wire 102 (shown in FIG. 2) is received. By engaging each other, the first helical winding 312 can be received with the spaces defined within the second helical winding 322, while the second helical winding 322 can be received within the spaces defined within the first helical winding 312. The second support portion 310 and the third support portion 320 are configured to apply a radial compressive force to the dropper wire 102 to maintain a relative position between the dropper wire 102 and the second support portion 310 and the third support portion 320.

[0041] In some examples, the wire support structure 300 can be electrically conductive. The wire support structure 300 can be composed of materials including, but not limited to: magnesium copper (MgCu) alloys, copper, aluminum, etc.

[0042] Referring to FIG. 4, a detail view of the first end of the dropper line 100 and the wire support structure 130 is shown.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 5, a detail view of the first end of the dropper line 100 and the first connection device 112 is illustrated. FIG. 5 provides a view through the two U-shaped structures that give shape to the first connection point 114 and the second connection point 118. As previously noted, the two U-shaped structures can be connected at legs of the U-shaped structures by a threaded connector through the legs. The threaded connector is separated from the curved portion of the first U- shaped structure to define an aperture for the messenger wire. Similarly, the threaded connector is separated from the curved portion of the second U-shaped structure to define an aperture for the first support end 132 of the wire support structure 130.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 6, a detail view of the first end of the dropper line 100 and the first connection device 112 with the first connection device 112 rotated approximately 90° for clarity. The threaded fastener can be provided with cooperating rotation prevention devices. The two U-shaped structures can be constructed from materials similar to the dropper wire 102 and/or the messenger wire to reduce or eliminate stress at the connection.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 7, a detail view of the second end of the dropper line 100 and the second connection device 128 is illustrated at a first orientation. In some examples, the second connection device 128 includes a fourth connection point 142 for connection to the contact wire, a fifth connection point 144, and a sixth connection point 146 for connection to the second end connector 172 such that the dropper wire 102 is in electrical communication with the contact wire. The dropper line 100 can include a second wire support structure 154, the second wire support structure 154 connected to the fifth connection point 144 at a third support end 156. The second wire support structure 154 is connected to the dropper wire 102 from a third support point 158 to a fourth support point 160 at a fourth support end 162. The third support point 158 and the fourth support point 160 are between the second support point 136 (shown in FIG. 2) and the second end point 168. As with the top end of the dropper line 100, the dropper wire 102 includes a fourth portion 180 between the third support point 158 and the fourth support point 160. The dropper wire 102 also includes a fifth portion 182 between the third support point 158 and the second end point 168. At the second end of the dropper line 100, a weight of the second wire support structure 154 is borne solely by the wire support structure 130 at the fifth portion 182 between the third support point 158 and the second end point 168. It is worthy of note that the view shown in FIG. 7 differs from that in FIG. 1 with the addition of several components to provide the second wire support structure 154.

[0046] As with the first connection device 112, any suitable connection device may be employed with the present disclosure (e.g., for second connection device 128). In some examples, two U-shaped structures give shape to the fourth connection point 142 and the fifth connection point 144. As with the first connection device 112, the two U-shaped structures can be connected at legs of the U-shaped structures by a threaded connector through the legs. The threaded connector is separated from the curved portion of the first U-shaped structure to define an aperture (e.g., the fourth connection point 142) for the contact wire. Similarly, the threaded connector is separated from the curved portion of the second U-shaped structure to define an aperture for the third support end 156 of the second wire support structure 154. [0047] Referring to FIG. 8, a detail view of the second end of the dropper line 100 is shown with the second connection device 128 rotated approximately 90° for clarity. The threaded fastener can be provided with cooperating rotation prevention devices. The two U-shaped structures can be constructed from materials similar to the dropper wire 102 and/or the messenger wire to reduce or eliminate stress at the connection.

[0048] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, another example dropper line 400 is illustrated. In the following examples, the dropper line 400 represents a “retrofit” (or preventative maintenance or repair) option wherein one or more wire support devices (e.g., first wire support structure 130 and second wire support structure 154) can be added to the dropper line 400 when the dropper line 400 is already in service on a catenary system. Previously described examples are perhaps better suited for “new” assembly or construction of dropper lines prior to assembly of the catenary systems.

[0049] The dropper line 400 includes a dropper wire 102 extending from a first connector 104 to a second connector 106. The first connector 104 is connected to the dropper wire 102 at a first link point 108 while the second connector 106 is connected to the dropper wire 102 at a second link point 110. A first connection device 112 is connected to the first connector 104. The first connection device 112 includes a first connection point 114 for connection to a messenger wire. The first connection device 112 also includes a second connection point 118 for connection to the first connector 104. The first connection device 112 further includes a third connection point 120. The dropper line 400 also includes a jumper wire 122 extending from a first jumper end 124 to a second jumper end 126, the first jumper end 124 connected to the first connector 104, the second jumper end 126 connected to the third connection point 120 such that the dropper wire 102 is in electrical communication with the messenger wire. As with some previous examples, the jumper wire 122 can provide the majority or the entirety of the electrical conductivity between the dropper wire 102 and the first connection device 112, such that the messenger wire and the dropper wire are in electrical communication.

[0050] The dropper line 400 includes a wire support structure 130 connected to the second connection point 118 at a first support end 132. The wire support structure 130 is connected to the dropper wire 102 from a first support point 134 to a second support point 136 (shown in FIG. 4) at a second support end 138 (shown in FIG. 4). The first support point 134 and the second support point 136 are between the first link point 108 and the second link point 110 (also shown in FIG. 13). The dropper wire 102 includes a wire portion 140 between the first support point 134 and the first link point 108, such that the wire portion 140 is above the first support point 134.

[0051] FIG. 9 illustrates that some example dropper lines 400 can have a first end that differs in elements/construction from the second end. However, similar to some previous examples, the second end of the dropper line 400 can substantially be a mirror image of the first end. In other words, the same components and construction are used for the second end of the dropper line 400 as with the first end as will be discussed below.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 11, a detail view of the first end of the dropper line 400 and the first connection device 112 is illustrated with the first connection device 112 at a first orientation. FIG. 11 provides a view through the two U-shaped structures that give shape to the first connection point 114 and the second connection point 118. As previously noted, the two U-shaped structures can be connected at legs of the U- shaped structures by a threaded connector through the legs. The threaded connector is separated from the curved portion of the first U-shaped structure to define an aperture for the messenger wire. Similarly, the threaded connector is separated from the curved portion of the second U-shaped structure to define an aperture for the first support end 132 of the wire support structure 130.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 12, a detail view of the first end of the dropper line 400 and the first connection device 112 is shown with the first connection device 112 rotated approximately 90° from the first orientation for clarity. The threaded fastener can be provided with cooperating rotation prevention devices. The two U-shaped structures can be constructed from materials similar to the dropper wire 102 and/or the messenger wire to reduce or eliminate stress at the connection.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 13, a detail view of the second end of the dropper line 400 and the second connection device 128 is illustrated. In some examples, the second connection device 128 includes a fourth connection point 142 for connection to the contact wire, a fifth connection point 144, and a sixth connection point 146 for connection to a fourth jumper end 152 such that the dropper wire 102 is in electrical communication with the contact wire. The dropper line 400 can include a second wire support structure 154, the second wire support structure 154 connected to the fifth connection point 144 at a third support end 156. The second wire support structure 154 is connected to the dropper wire 102 from a third support point 158 to a fourth support point 160 at a fourth support end 162. The third support point 158 and the fourth support point 160 are between the second support point 136 (shown in FIG. 2) and the second link point 110. As with the top end of the dropper line 100, the dropper wire 102 includes a fourth portion 180 between the third support point 158 and the fourth support point 160. The dropper wire 102 also includes a fifth portion 182 between the third support point 158 and the second end point 168. At the second end of the dropper line 400, a weight of the second wire support structure 154 is borne solely by the wire support structure 154 at the fifth portion 182 between the third support point 158 and the second link point 110. As such, the fifth portion 182 of the dropper wire 102 bears no weight of the second wire support structure 154.

[0055] As with the first connection device 112, any suitable connection device may be employed with the present disclosure (e.g., for second connection device 128). In some examples, two U-shaped structures give shape to the fourth connection point 142 and the fifth connection point 144. As with the first connection device 112, the two U-shaped structures can be connected at legs of the U-shaped structures by a threaded connector through the legs. The threaded connector is separated from the curved portion of the first U-shaped structure to define an aperture (e.g., the fourth connection point 142) for the contact wire. Similarly, the threaded connector is separated from the curved portion of the second U-shaped structure to define an aperture for the third support end 156 of the second wire support structure 154.

[0056] A number of benefits can be realized using the apparatus and methods described in the present disclosure. In some examples, the apparatus and methods can eliminate or reduce the potential for cyclical failure of the dropper line at the connection point between the first connector and the dropper wire. The described apparatus and methods include a wire support structure that distributes the cyclical bending stresses over a more flexible and longer distance of the dropper wire rather than having increased bending load and stress concentration at a relatively localized connection point between the dropper wire and a relatively hard connection (e.g., crimped connection) that increases the potential of metal fatigue due to its relatively rigid structure and relatively small short transition length between rigid constraint of the dropper wire and freedom of movement of the dropper wire. This metal fatigue in the dropper wire can be accelerated by the cyclical nature of passing pantographs and wire vibration phenomenon. This metal fatigue has a tendency to split the constituent wires of the dropper wire and lead to failure, particularly at higher stress points, including the crimped connection points along the dropper wire.

[0057] The entire device described above can be constructed, stored, sold, and shipped as a single unit, such that new installations of dropper lines according to the present disclosure can be easily handled, installed, etc.

[0058] In some other examples, the described devices can be a repair or “retrofit” option for railway equipment maintenance. In other words, if metal fatigue of the dropper wire is a matter of concern, the wire support structure can be looped through a connection point on the upper connection device (e.g., the first connection device) and helically wound around the dropper wire. The wire support structure can than bear the entire weight of the first portion and the second portion of the dropper wire and relieve a third portion of the dropper wire of the weight. The third portion is located between the first portion and the first end of the dropper wire, and while the third portion can remain connected to the first connection device, the third portion no longer bears any weight of the first portion, the second portion, or any portion of the contact wire. As described above, this can eliminate or reduce the cyclical fatigue failure of the dropper wire.

[0059] Another benefit of the apparatus and methods of the present disclosure can include reduced induction of the dropper wire assembly. In some examples, a portion of the dropper line assembly that previously looped from a connection point on the dropper wire to a connection point on the first connection device can be eliminated because it is extraneous. In some examples (e.g. new dropper lines), the third portion of the dropper wire can extend out of the wire support structure and extend to a connection point on the first connection device without a looping orientation. Elimination of this looping part of the conductive material can reduce the total induction of the dropper line assembly which can be desirable.

[0060] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing at least some of the claims.

[0061] Various operations of embodiments are provided herein. The order in which some or all of the operations described should not be construed to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. Alternative ordering will be appreciated having the benefit of this description. Further, it will be understood that not all operations are necessarily present in each embodiment provided herein. Also, it will be understood that not all operations are necessary in some embodiments.

[0062] Many modifications may be made to the instant disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless specified otherwise, “first,” “second,” or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first component and a second component generally correspond to component A and component B or two different or two identical components or the same component.

[0063] Moreover, "exemplary" is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, illustration, etc., and not necessarily as advantageous. As used in this application, "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or".

In addition, "a" and "an" as used in this application are generally to be construed to mean "one or more" unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Also, at least one of A and B or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. Furthermore, to the extent that "includes", "having", "has", "with", or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to "comprising”.

[0064] Also, although the disclosure has been illustrated and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure. In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A dropper line comprising: a dropper wire extending from a first connector to a second connector, the first connector connected to the dropper wire at a first link point, the second connector connected to the dropper wire at a second link point; a first connection device connected to the first connector, the first connection device comprising: a first connection point for connection to a messenger wire; a second connection point for connection to the first connector; and a third connection point; a jumper wire extending from a first jumper end to a second jumper end, the first jumper end connected to the first connector, the second jumper end connected to the third connection point such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the messenger wire; a second connection device connected to the second connector, the second connection device for connection of the dropper wire to a contact wire such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire; and a wire support structure, the wire support structure connected to the second connection point at a first support end and connected to the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point at a second support end, the first support point and the second support point between the first link point and the second link point, the dropper wire having a wire portion between the first support point and the first link point, such that the wire portion is above the first support point.

2. The dropper line of claim 1, wherein the wire support structure is a helical structure.

3. The dropper line of claim 2, wherein the wire support structure includes a first helical winding and a second helical winding configured to be wound around a first portion of the dropper line between the first connector and the second connector.

4. The dropper line of claim 1, the second connection device comprising: a fourth connection point for connection to the contact wire; a fifth connection point for connection to the second connector; and a sixth connection point; a second jumper wire extending from a third jumper end to a fourth jumper end, the third jumper end connected to the second connector, the fourth jumper end connected to the sixth connection point such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire; and a second wire support structure, the second wire support structure connected to the fifth connection point at a third support end and connected to the dropper wire from a third support point to a fourth support point at a fourth support end, the third support point and the fourth support point between the first link point and the second link point, wherein: the dropper wire having a second wire portion between the third support point and the second link point, such that the second wire portion is below the third support point.

5. A dropper line comprising: a dropper wire extending from a first end point to a second end point; a first end connector connected to the dropper wire at the first end point; a second end connector connected to the dropper wire at the second end point; a first connection device connected to the first end connector, the first connection device comprising: a first connection point for connection to a messenger wire; a second connection point; and a third connection point for connection to the first end connector such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the messenger wire; a second connection device connected to the second end connector, the second connection device for connection of the dropper wire to a contact wire such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire; and a wire support structure, the wire support structure connected to the second connection point at a first support end and connected to the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point at a second support end, the first support point and the second support point between the first end point and the second end point, wherein: the dropper wire having a first portion between the first support point and the second support point, the dropper wire having a second portion between the second support point and the second end point, the dropper wire having a third portion between the first support point and the first end point, and a weight of the first portion and the second portion is borne solely by the wire support structure between the first portion and the first connection device.

6. The dropper line of claim 5, the second connection device comprising: a fourth connection point for connection to a contact wire; a fifth connection point; and a sixth connection point for connection to the second end connector such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire; and a second wire support structure, the second wire support structure connected to the fifth connection point at a third support end and connected to the dropper wire from a third support point to a fourth support point at a fourth support end, the third support point and the fourth support point between the second support point and the second end point, wherein: the dropper wire having a fourth portion between the third support point and the fourth support point, the dropper wire having a fifth portion between the third support point and the second end point, and a weight of the second wire support structure is borne solely by the wire support structure at the fifth portion between the third support point and the second end point.

7. A dropper line comprising: a dropper wire extending from a first connector to a second connector, the first connector connected to the dropper wire at a first link point, the second connector connected to the dropper wire at a second link point; a first connection device connected to the first connector, the first connection device comprising: a first connection point for connection to a messenger wire; a second connection point for connection to the first connector; and a third connection point; a jumper wire extending from a first jumper end to a second jumper end, the first jumper end connected to the first connector, the second jumper end connected to the third connection point such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the messenger wire; a second connection device connected to the second connector, the second connection device for connection of the dropper wire to a contact wire such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire; and a wire support structure, the wire support structure connected to the second connection point at a first support end and including a first helical winding and a second helical winding wound around the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point at second support end, the first support point and the second support point between the first link point and the second link point, the dropper wire having a wire portion between the first support point and the first link point, such that the wire portion is above the first support point.

8. A dropper line comprising: a dropper wire extending from a first end point to a second end point; a first end connector connected to the dropper wire at the first end point; a second end connector connected to the dropper wire at the second end point; a first connection device connected to the first end connector, the first connection device comprising: a first connection point for connection to a messenger wire; a second connection point; and a third connection point for connection to the first end connector such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the messenger wire; a second connection device connected to the second end connector, the second connection device for connection of the dropper wire to a contact wire such that the dropper wire is in electrical communication with the contact wire; and a wire support structure, the wire support structure connected to the second connection point at a first support end and including a first helical winding and a second helical winding wound around the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point, the first support point and the second support point between the first end point and the second end point, wherein: the dropper wire having a first portion between the first support point and the second support point, the dropper wire having a second portion between the second support point and the second end point, the dropper wire having a third portion between the first support point and the first end point, and a weight of the first portion and the second portion is borne solely by the wire support structure between the first portion and the first connection device.

9. A dropper line comprising: a dropper wire extending from a first link point to a second link point; a first connection device connecting the first link point to a messenger wire; a second connection device connecting the second link point to a contact wire; and a wire support structure connected to the first connection device at an upper end and connected to the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point, the first support point and the second support point between the first link point and the second link point, wherein, the dropper wire having a wire portion between the first support point and the first link point, such that the wire portion is above the first support point.

10. A dropper line comprising: a dropper wire extending from a first end point to a second end point; a first connection device connecting the first end point to a messenger wire; a second connection device connecting the second end point to a contact wire; and a wire support structure connected to the first connection device at an upper end and connected to the dropper wire from a first support point to a second support point, the first support point and the second support point between the first end point and the second end point, wherein: the dropper wire having a first portion between the first support point and the second support point, the dropper wire having a second portion between the second support point and the second end point, the dropper wire having a third portion between the first support point and the first end point, and a weight of the dropper wire from the first portion of the dropper wire to the second end point of the dropper wire is borne by the wire support structure between the first portion and the first connection device.

11. A method of supporting a dropper line having a dropper wire extending from a first connector to a second connector comprising: connecting a wire support structure to a first connection device connecting the dropper line to a messenger wire; and wrapping a first helical winding and a second helical winding of the wire support structure around a first portion of the dropper wire between the first connector and the second connector such that weight of the dropper line from the first portion of the dropper line to the second connector is borne at the first connection device.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein weight of the dropper wire from the first portion of the dropper wire to the first connector is not borne at the first connection device.