Pantograph (transport)

A pantograph (or "pan" or "panto") is an apparatus mounted on the roof of an electric train, tram or electric bus^[1] to collect power through contact with an overhead line. The term stems from the resemblance of some styles to the mechanical pantographs used for copying handwriting and drawings.

The pantograph is a common type of current collector; typically, a single or double wire is used, with the return current running through the rails. Other types of current collectors include the bow collector and the trolley pole.