https://youtu.be/uPejgdyiXZ4?t=12
Hi Folks:
I came across a video produced by DlaLogika, a firm that is developing trolleypoles that are very flexible in reaching or dropping away from the electric overhead. According to this video, special work at intersections would not be needed. In a few seconds away from an intersection with another trolleybus line, the poles will lower and reattach to the overhead after the intersection is passed. Also shown was a two way street with trolleybuses running in both directions but with one set of overhead. One trolley radios the oncoming trolley and one of the two lowers the poles while the other trolley remain on line. Once the trolley on the other side passes, the trolley poles are re-attached. This technology probably uses GIS or photography. This technology may enable some cities to consider a partial overhead system.
I also saw, but I do not have the reference of a trolleybus test using an above ground conduit for the electricity. The trolleybus does not use wires but must be in contact with the metal conduit that appears to be .5 inches above the surface of the street. I am not sure how ice, snow, salt and heavy traffic will effect this flat conduit system. It is important to note that Manhattan streetcars received the power from slot between tracks with an underground conduit. What happens when heavy cargo falls to the street and smashes the conduit container?