Electric Trolley Prototype for Goods and People Transport on Ziplines

Abstract

The increasing demand for efficient and cost-effective transportation solutions has led to the exploration of unconventional modes of transportation, such as ziplines. This paper presents the development of an electric prototype for a trolley that can be used for the simultaneous transport of goods and people on ziplines. The prototype is designed with a modular system that allows for easy customization based on the cargo’s weight and size. Two lightweight Maxon motors have been integrated for traction purposes with two Maxon inverters and a low-voltage swappable battery pack. The trolley’s chassis is made of lightweight materials, such as aluminum, making it highly maneuverable and capable of traveling at high speeds. The lightweight permits the operators to detach the trolley from the zipline when needed. The prototype’s traction and braking systems are controlled through a user-friendly interface, making it easy to operate, and with the possibility of a robust and automatic routine for goods transport. In this article, we present the simulation for the design and testing of the prototype, as well as its potential applications in various industries, such as mining, agriculture, and emergency services. Our results show that the prototype is a viable solution for zipline-based transportation, with high efficiency and performance standards. Further research and development are being conducted to optimize the prototype’s performance and expand its applications.