Cable car

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Cable car refers to a type of transportation system that uses cables for traction. Cable cars are often used in mountainous areas, where they provide a means of transportation that is not affected by weather conditions or terrain. They are also used in urban areas as a form of public transportation.

History[edit | edit source]

The first cable car system was developed in the mid-19th century by Andrew Smith Hallidie, an engineer and inventor. Hallidie's system was used in San Francisco, where it became a popular form of transportation. The San Francisco cable car system is still in operation today, and is one of the city's most iconic features.

Design and operation[edit | edit source]

A cable car system consists of a series of cars that are attached to a continuously moving cable. The cable is powered by a stationary engine, which moves the cars along the track. The cars are equipped with a grip that allows them to attach and detach from the cable, enabling them to start and stop at designated stations.

Cable cars are typically designed to carry a large number of passengers. They are often used in ski resorts, where they provide a convenient means of transportation for skiers and snowboarders. In urban areas, cable cars are used as a form of public transportation, providing a reliable and efficient means of travel.

Types of cable cars[edit | edit source]

There are several different types of cable cars, including:

  • Aerial tramways: These are large cabins that are suspended from a cable. They are often used in mountainous areas, where they provide a means of transportation that is not affected by weather conditions or terrain.
  • Funiculars: These are cable cars that operate on steep slopes. They use a pair of passenger vehicles that are connected by a cable, with one car ascending as the other descends.
  • Cable propelled transit: This is a type of urban transportation system that uses cable cars. It is often used in hilly cities, where it provides a reliable and efficient means of travel.

See also[edit | edit source]

Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD