Cabletram

A method of transportation between islands of a settlement (or different levels within one island), Cabletrams are carriages containing their own means of propulsion, suspended from cables. Although most lines are lateral, the system is able to climb steep angles, making it a popular method for traversing city levels. Cabletrams are cheap to run (at least over small distances) and are in many ways considered a symbol of the working class.

Workings

A cabletram line consists of three cables. The primary cable is fixed in place and the motor on the cabletram drives along it. Two more cables are fixed to either end of the line and operate on a torque-limit retractor mechanism, much like a seat-belt. In the event of failing of the main line, the safety lines hold the carriage in place. If one of the safety lines also goes, the other will become taut and the carriage will swing back to the most recently-passed support pylon. These are designed such that swinging carriage will not impact the tower structure itself. The lines are also attached at the centre of the roof, so that the carriage comes to rest hanging upright.