Fibre optic sensing system for monitoring of current collectors and overhead contact lines of railways

Abstract. Fibre optic sensors are excellent tools to use for monitoring high-voltage current collectors. Because of their small cross section and electrical neutrality, they are easily integrated into the current collector strip and are well specialized for detection of high-speed load events. The conventional contact force measurement with four force sensors below the collector strips can also be simplified by using fibre optic force and acceleration sensors.