Overhead Conducting System for Electric Railways BY SETH

Overhead Conducting System for Electric Railways BY SETH GARRETT, DESIGNER MEAGAN MENIFEE, DESIGNER MARTEZ MCCLAIN, ADVERTISER KWADWO OPPON, PROJECT MANAGER

Granville T Woods � � � After leaving elementary school, the young Granville Woods became an apprentice in a machine shop, repairing railroad equipment. Later, he accepted other positions in mills and machine shops, spending his spare time studying mechanical engineering and electricity. Granville T. Woods overcame many obstacles related to being an African American genius at a time when most African Americans could not even obtain a basic education. His accomplishments helped move America into the modern world He patented over 60 inventions, including the overhead conducting system for electric railways.

The system itself � � � This electrical apparatus, the "trawler" or "trolley" is the electrical apparatus which provides electric traction power to the rail vehicle; transmitting power from the overhead catenary wire to the moving (or stationary) rail vehicle. Used in Modern countries for trams and trolleys by conducting electricity for an overhead catenary. An overhead line, or catenary, is used to transmit electrical energy to trams, trolleybuses, or trains at a distance from the energy supply point. Granville Woods’ apparatus allowed the trains to collect electricity from these overhead catenaries.

Left: His patent document for the overhead conducting system. Right: The invention first being utilized on a train

Benefits of the invention � This invention was extremely useful when it was first invented and it still is being utilized in trams, trolleys, and some trains today. (with a different design)

Our Improvements � We revolutionized the design of the overhead conducting system. It still serves the same function, but our design is more aerodynamic and sturdy because of its rectangular shape.