Geared Motors Used To Improve Efficiency Of Automated Signage

Phil Black - PII Editor 23/05/2014

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The Wilhelm-Marx-Haus building, located in Düsseldorf, is well known for being one of Europe”s first high-rise office buildings. Since 1964 the building has been crowned on all four sides by the word “Persil” in large, illuminated letters. Due to legal issues surrounding “product propaganda” in Germany when the adverts were first erected, the sign could only be made visible at night.

To facilitate the legal requirement, a unique framework mechanism was constructed to move the advertisement below the roof parapet during the day. During the overhaul of the system, Bauer BK80 geared motors were used to improve the efficiency of this operation.

Construction on the Willhelm-Marx-Haus building finished 1924 with the building standing at 57 metres high; making it one of the first clear examples of a modern skyscraper in Europe. Holding such a prominent position on the city”s skyline it wasn”t long before the roof of the building was recognised as being prize real estate for advertising and, for the last 50 years, the word “Persil” has shone brightly over the streets of Düsseldorf. In order to prevent the advertising being seen during the day, and to protect the signs from damage in high winds, a system was designed which could raise and lower the letters mechanically.

During an appraisal of the sign it was decided that the structure had become unstable and the original motors which powered the moving sign no longer met performance requirements. As work needed to be done to modernise the system it was decided that new gear motors should be installed that would provide reliable operation over many years, while also improving the efficiency and reducing the noise of operation.

Scheib Elektrotechnik GmbH, a Bauer Gear Centre, was responsible for upgrading the system and recommended that Bauer BK80 geared motors replace the original drives. The Bauer units were chosen as they feature an inverter-friendly design which provides for easy integration into existing installations and helps to maximise the efficiency and performance. To ensure longevity once installed, the geared motors were specified with an optional IP66 enclosure which protects against dust and moisture.

To learn more about the extensive range of geared motors from Bauer and to find out how Bauer can help to specify the perfect solutions for your application, contact a member of the expert sales team.