What is the IMA of a funicular system?

The ideal mechanical advantage (IMA) of a funicular system is indeed equal to 1. A funicular system operates primarily by changing the direction of the force applied to move a load along a slope or incline. In this system, the input work done to lift the load is equal to the output work done by the load being lifted. Since there is no significant gain in the mechanical advantage during a straightforward lift in a funicular system, the ratio of the output force (the weight of the load) to the input force (the effort required to lift) is equal to one.

This reflects the nature of a funicular, as it efficiently transmits the force while maintaining a balance between the load and the effort. Different configurations or angled tracks do not fundamentally alter this basic principle, which is rooted in the mechanical design of the system.