Five high-resolution LED videowalls, encased in custom climate controlled enclosures have become permanent fixtures at the Swiss mountain resort, Zermatt. Richnerstutz AG & Netvico GmbH worked with SiliconCore Technology on this groundbreaking AV project.
In a world first, cable car operator Zermatt Bergbahnen, now offers visitors resort guidance via a high tech experience at altitudes up to 3,000m. Measuring 3.4m x 2.4m and featuring 1.9mm pixel pitch LED displays from SiliconCore, each display operates at a very bright 3,000nit brightness, showcasing panoramic maps, ski lift information and critical messaging on slope safety.
Faced with complex logistics and extreme weather conditions, three-dimensional experience experts Richnerstutz AG & Netvico GmbH executed the specialist project within six weeks, with the assistance of LED innovators SiliconCore Technology and structural enclosure manufacturer, Vangenhassend GmbH.
Custom built into a steel enclosure from Vangenhassend GmbH, a controlled climate system protects the display from internal and external fluctuating temperatures from -20 to 55 degrees celsius. It also features sophisticated sensor technology for brightness, temperature and humidity, a remote control unit, 16mm protection glass with UV and IR filters, and anti-glare coating, with rear access for servicing.
SiliconCore’s propriety Common Cathode technology enables the display to reach a maximum brightness of 4,000 nits – four times the industry standard for 1.9mm pitch while minimising power consumption. Each individual unit drawing a maximum of 30KW, and average 15KW. As the units normal operating brightness is 25% less than the maximum, the display is assured to operate efficiently and at consistently bright levels. Each unit was subject to intense testing to ensure performance would withstand harsh lighting and fluctuating weather conditions. The displays feature automatic adjustment for exceptionally bright days and a standby mode at night.
Peter Ellensohn, head of digital experience, Richnerstutz AG, said: “There are many variables to consider when preparing for this type of project as there are often times when we had one chance to get it right. As a one-of-its-kind install, we had to develop a completely new system to suit the changing climate of the mountain. The SiliconCore LED display was the only LED display on the market which fit the requirements, from both a brightness and power consumption perspective. The enclosure from Vangenhassend GmbH went through rigorous testing to ensure it was weatherproof and we were extremely lucky to work side by side with the team at Netvico who were precise and persistent to achieve excellence. Zermatt Bergbahnen’s goal was to give its visitors something better than other ski resorts – and that’s what they’ve got.”
Using AOpen DEX 5350 media players, the content is operated via Netvico software platform, PlayEverywhere, making it possible to create, stage and manage content in real-time on all the screens simultaneously. Automatic feeds streaming resort information can be sent directly to each individual display alongside other communication channels, including the Skiguide Zermatt App.
For urgent updates, Zermatt Bergbahnen Center Office can manually update the system to highlight important messages. The software can also send SMS push notifications directly to visitor’s smartphones via the app, highlighting lift closures and avalanche warnings, which is a huge step forward for the safety of the resort.
Raymond Ho, technical project manager, SiliconCore Technology, commented: “This has been one of my most interesting and challenging installations. We had an extremely difficult second installation phase due to the freezing temperatures and high altitudes, but the whole team were persistent in completing the install. The team at Richnerstutz AG thought of every detail at every stage, so we always had a plan B for adverse weather and all the products worked together to achieve an incredibly difficult task.“
Richnerstutz AG arranged special logistics, permissions and travel arrangements to transport the kit from the valley to the mountain, hiring specialist Kamov Helicopters to reach the most remote sites.
