Berchtenbreiter at Skywalk Allgäu

Berchtenbreiter celebrates its 25th anniversary at the Skywalk Allgäu in Scheidegg, Germany, chosen for the panoramic views provided by an outdoor elevator.

reprinted and edited with permission from Lift Report

Berchtenbreiter GmbH, established in 1986, is a manufacturer of components and partner for the planning and installation of elevator systems. Headquartered in Rieblingen, Germany, near Augsburg, the company has established itself in domestic and foreign markets. In 2011, Berchtenbreiter’s 80 employees gathered to celebrate the company’s 25th anniversary. The Skywalk Allgäu in Scheidegg, Germany, was chosen as the venue due to the panoramic views provided by the park’s observation tower, reached via an outdoor elevator installed and designed by Berchtenbreiter.

An Unusual Project

At an altitude of 1,000 m, the observation tower marks the start of the park and serves as a focal point. Berchtenbreiter was charged with the task of equipping the tower with a wheelchair-accessible elevator system. The tower, treetop walk and suspension bridges were constructed as weatherproof structures comprised of filigree-steel girders and steel ropes, contrasting with the natural wooded environment.

The project posed many challenges, both technically and environmentally. The frequency-controlled gearless drive located in the upper portion of the shaft and the underground controls in the machine room had to be protected from moisture and environmental influences. This required cooperation from all involved parties early in the planning stages.

The steel and glass shaft of the air-conditioned elevator gives the impression that it is freely suspended in the middle of the observation tower. Berchtenbreiter’s machine-room-less system was used in the upper well and lower shaft, providing jerk-free deceleration and stopping, as well as quiet operation. With a 1000-kg payload and 35.64-m lifting height, the elevator transports passengers to the highest observation platform, where they can enjoy views of Lake Constance and the three bordering countries. The elevator has four landings, providing passenger access to multiple levels. Skywalk Allgäu opened in October 2010. 

Conclusion

The park’s numerous attractions provided an ideal setting for a relaxed but eventful afternoon for the team and members’ families. Views from the top of the observation tower left a lasting impression and, with 30-m-tall treetop suspension bridges, climbing gardens with slides, a barefoot walk, children’s playgrounds and peaceful forest walks, there was something to satisfy every interest. The company jubilee was capped off in the evening with dinner and a social gathering. With 25 years of experience in elevator engineering and backed by the overall positive development of the industry sector, Berchtenbreiter looks forward to future projects.