Dopplemayr Completes World's First TRI-Line In Hoch-Ybrig
The new Weglosen–Seebli ropeway in Hoch-Ybrig (CHE) is the world's first ropeway to feature the innovative 'TRI-Line' ropeway technology of the Doppelmayr Group. State- of-the-art technology, a newly developed carriage, barrier-free cabins and the option of autonomous operation are the hallmarks of this new ropeway. The implementation of this project took place under the overall project management of Hoch-Ybrig AG.
The TRI-Line Weglosen–Seebli in the Swiss skiing and hiking area of Hoch-Ybrig replaces an aerial tramway dating from 1970. Due to the topographical and climatic requirements in the area, Hoch- Ybrig AG together with Garaventa decided to implement the world's first TRI-Line, a novel ropeway system developed by Doppelmayr and a further development of the tricable technology. It combines the benefits of the high-capacity 3S system with those of the proven D-Line generation and impresses with its compact stations and towers.
The system covers a distance of approximately 1,7 kilometers with only two towers, each of which consists of two tubular towers, thus reducing the space required and allowing for the installation to fit in harmoniously with the landscape.
'The TRI-Line Hoch-Ybrig project is a generational project – for us and for the entire region. The feeder ropeway is the first thing our guests see in the morning and the last thing they see before they go home. With the new ropeway we are creating something that will leave a lasting impression for decades to come,' says Urs Keller, Managing Director of Hoch-Ybrig AG. The new TRI-Line provides reliable, comfortable and barrier-free access to the area – all year round.' The new ropeway was built slightly offset from the previous axis, thus allowing the construction works on the new installation to start while the aerial tramway continued operation bringing guests to the skiing and hiking resort.
The new TRI-Line in Hoch-Ybrig is AURO-compatible. AURO stands for Autonomous Ropeway Operation and enables operation without station attendants. Depending on the specific requirements, the installation can be operated in two modes: In conventional mode, employees monitor the bottom and top station, enabling full transport capacity – ideal for peak times in the ski resort. In AURO mode, passengers board and alight from stationary cabins via portals. Operation is monitored using cameras and centrally controlled from the Ropeway Operation Centre (ROC) located in the top station. The system automatically identifies ireegular operating situations and slows down or stops the ropeway if necessary. If the ropeway comes to a halt, the operator manually resumes operation in the top station once the cause for the stop has been rectified. The operator is given the flexibility to switch between these two operating modes and the opportunity make ideal use of their resources.
'It is a great benefit for the entire Doppelmayr Group that the first project of this new ropeway type was realised in the immediate vicinity of our business locations. The efficient implementation of the first TRI-Line and the short distances to the construction site really gave the project a boost,' says Marcel Nussbaumer, Project Manager Sales Garaventa. 'The close cooperation between our teams within the Group and the enthusiasm of our customer also were decisive factors in bringing this new system to market maturity.'
The new TRI-Line in Hoch-Ybrig will officially go into operation for the 2025/26 winter season; at the earliest on November 22, 2025 depending on the snow conditions. The lift will be officially opened in a private ceremony on November 8, 2025.
The heart of the TRI-Line is its newly developed carriage: Two D5000 grips that attach to the rope from above and eight carriage wheels – four on each track rope – ensure smooth motion and stability, even in strong winds. The ropeway uses numerous proven components of the D-Line and the 3S system, which allows for straightforward maintenance and operations for the ropeway operating team.
CWA developed a completely new cabin, the bright red 'STELLA'. In the initial design, 18 cabins will transport up to 1,400 passengers per hour and direction along the line in around seven minutes. The cabins can accommodate 18 passengers (12 seated and 6 standing) and provide ski racks on the inside. Large panoramic windows offer unobstructed views of the impressive mountain landscape, while the level entrance provides barrier-free access. The ropeway also boasts an additional carrier for transporting goods and a maintenance carrier. The parking system for the cabins is integrated into the bottom station.
The electrical equipment is based on the Connect control system, a modern ropeway control system that is consistently geared towards the tasks of the operating personnel and enables efficient, intuitive operation of the system.
The TRI-Line is a product of the Doppelmayr Group and an example of seamless cooperation within the company: Garaventa was primarily responsible for the implementation and project management of the TRI-Line Weglosen–Seebli, the ropeway technology was developed by Doppelmayr in Wolfurt (AUT) and the new cabin was designed by CWA in Olten (CH). Under the overall project management of Hoch-Ybrig AG, a pioneering ropeway has been created that sets new standards in the industry.
