About
Pulsed gondolas are fixed-grip ART systems with cabins grouped together in “pulses” rather than being spaced evenly along the cable. The entire line slows down or stops completely in stations to allow passengers to embark and disembark.
While popular in the mid to end of the
last century, their limited capacity and operational inflexibility makes them rare in the urban transport.
Advantages
Pulsed gondolas allow for simpler, potentially smaller stations due to simultaneous cabin stops.
Complete stops in stations make boarding and disembarking easier for all passengers.
Traveling within a stopping "pulse" can offer a more stable and comfortable ride.
Grouped cabin movement might lead to lower energy use in specific operational scenarios.
Pulsed systems can be suitable for shorter routes with concentrated, timed demand.
Fixed-grip technology and simpler stations can result in lower initial capital costs.
Fewer complex parts may lead to reduced wear and tear.
Disadvantages
The "pulsed" operation inherently limits the overall passenger capacity.
Adjusting system capacity to changing demand is operationally inflexible.
Passengers may experience longer average waiting times for the next cabin group.
The fixed number of cabins per pulse might not always match real-time demand.
Inconsistent timing can lead to inefficient and frustrating cabin bunching.
Pulsed gondolas are generally unsuitable for long routes or high passenger volumes.
The need to stop at each station increases the overall travel time.
