Forum Velbert – Modernization for culture, education, and community
With the comprehensive modernization of Forum Niederberg, the city of Velbert has realized a pioneering project that unites culture, education, and community under one roof. Built between 1979 and 1982, the Forum was a central event venue for many years. Due to increased fire protection requirements and structural deficiencies, a fundamental renovation was decided in 2019, which began in 2020 and was successfully completed in autumn 2023. In total, approximately 16,150 m² of gross floor area were brought up to the latest standards. In addition to structural measures, modern event technology was integrated—including audiovisual systems and contemporary infrastructure. The goal was to create a versatile venue that equally meets the requirements for cultural events, conferences, and educational formats.
The close integration of the Velbert Adult Education Center further enhances the attractiveness of the venue as a place for encounters and lifelong learning. A particular challenge was the planning of a unified access and usage corridor system that also meets complex requirements for escape and rescue routes. The aim was to design access control for public and security-relevant areas in such a way that safety, functionality, and user-friendliness are equally ensured.
Our products in use
The electronic locking system ixalo with RFID technology was used in combination with the mechanical locking system nuvius. Together, they meet the highest security requirements and enable clear access control for different user groups. Additionally, panic locks, overhead door closers, swing door operators, and a motorized emergency exit door lock were installed to ensure fast and safe evacuation in case of an emergency. For central control, the GEMOS Access system was integrated, enabling seamless coordination of all security-relevant components while combining ease of operation and efficiency.
With ixalo, you benefit from products that meet the highest security classes of the standard for mechatronic locking cylinders. In addition to their technical function, the components impress with their modern product design. With RFID technology – Mifare® (MIFARE® Classic® and MIFARE® DESFire® EV1), ixalo | RFID opens up a wide range of application possibilities tailored to individual requirements.
State-of-the-art technology for optimized security! The conventional nuvius locking system is already extremely secure and versatile in its high-quality standard configuration. The additional special features make the system flexible for use almost anywhere. From complex locking systems in commercial environments to restricted locking in private applications—this patented all-rounder meets every individual security requirement.
With comparatively small dimensions, the slide rail door closers of the OTS 73x series combine attractive design with easy opening in accordance with DIN SPEC 1104 and DIN 18040 standards for barrier-free construction. The high opening comfort when passing through is achieved by the double heart curve technology and the optional free-swing function. Dimensions, drilling patterns, and appearance are uniform across all product types—including the free-swing door closer—ensuring a harmonious overall appearance even when different door closer variants are used. The covers and the slide arm are available in various materials and finishes, allowing selection to match the door and surrounding architecture.
The comprehensive range of BKS mortise locks offers visual consistency as well as various locking types for wooden, steel, aluminum, or plastic doors. Always the right solution for many different applications—from private interior doors to heavily frequented final doors in administrative or industrial buildings. BKS mortise locks are particularly durable and low-maintenance, which is advantageous for high usage frequency. And of course, they comply with DIN 18250 and DIN 18251.
The application possibilities of GEMOS access range from offline access control systems for small applications to modular and fully integrated parts of building, security, or hazard management systems. GEMOS access combines various security technology trades at the door. Thus, access control, emergency exit door control, and monitoring systems are centrally connected to the GAM door module. The open interface architecture allows connection of many standard card readers, e.g., via RS485 or Wiegand protocol—regardless of the reading methods implemented. The program core and database are based on the continuously developed and innovative GEMOS software philosophy.