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 ground-breaking 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 3000 meters. Measuring 3.4 m x 2.4 m and featuring 1.9 mm pixel pitch LED displays from SiliconCore, each display operates at a very bright 3000 nit 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 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° celsius. It also features sophisticated sensor technology for brightness, temperature and humidity, a remote-control unit, 16 mm protection glass with UV and IR filters, and anti-glare coating, with rear access for servicing.
SiliconCore’s proprierty Common Cathode technology enables the display to reach a maximum brightness of 4000 nits – four times the industry standard for 1.9 mm pitch while minimising power consumption. Each individual unit drawing a maximum of 30 KW, and average 15 KW. As the units normal operating brightness is 25% less than the maximum, the display is assured to operate efficiently and at consistently bright levels. The units were 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, commented: “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.”
Using AOpen DEX 5350 media players, the content is operated via Netvico GmbH 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.
