Teupen triumph at Berlin station

As part of a multi-million Euro order, Teupen has supplied seven machines, including a permanent access system on the roof. Most interesting, however, are the special self-propelled units built for the inside of the station. These include the LB 07, an articulated machine which is mounted on a portal frame with crawlers: the portal frame allows the lift to move across platforms avoiding the hand railings around the platform staircase voids.

The LB 06, meanwhile, which is used externally and for the entrance hall, is a telescoping design offering 27 m maximum working height and 22 m outreach. This also uses a crawler chassis, but is used in pre-set locations where it is connected to permanent anchorage points built into the floor.

The final one-off unit, the LB 09, is the smallest and will be used on the lowest level platforms. It has a 14.5 m maximum working height and 6.5 m outreach, and uses four crawlers to move. A particular feature of this model is an electronic system that automatically guides the machine on the ground, and which will automatically detect if it nears the platform edge.

All three machines - which have been painted grey to blend in with the building - are fitted with anti-collision sensors and automatic stop systems to prevent damage either to the platforms or the building structure. The station was officially opened by Germany's chancellor, Angela Merkel, on 26 May.