"Weightless Architecture”

Press kit for EuroShop 2005

New products:
- constructiv PON
- constructiv TELVIS
Product survey
Company:
- Product philosophy
- A new generation
- International partners
- Cooperation
Exhibition stands at EuroShop
Frequently asked questions

constructiv PON

The constructiv PON trade fair and architecture system is distinguished by light weight and high stability. High-tech, precision-made aluminium tubing is what makes it possible. Clever connectors permit tool-free assembly, allowing the system to be set up and taken down quickly and economically. The result is a space that seems weightless: the ideal communication environment for trade fairs.

Features and applications
constructiv PON is a system employing connectors and rods that are joined using magnetic push-fit connections. It can be assembled and disassembled easily and quickly, without any need for tools. Diagonal braces are simply inserted into position.
Light and graceful in appearance, constructiv PON is nevertheless extremely stable. It is a complete architectural system for use in trade fairs, displays or shop-in-shop systems - wherever versatile spatial structures are needed on a temporary basis.
The clever connectors permit installation of all kinds of panels (textile, plastic, solid, glass) without using tools.
Thanks to its slender rods and compact connectors, constructiv PON has a low transport weight and loading volume.
The basic constructiv PON system is orthogonal. When it is used with connectors from constructiv TELVIS I, angle-free construction is possible, opening up limitless design variations.

Material and dimensions
constructiv PON is available in the basic axis dimensions A 980 and A 1,200. Connectors and diagonal braces are made of precision-cast stainless steel with dimensions 34 x 34 x 34 mm. The rods are made of high-strength aluminium, giving the system great stability (comparable to that of steel) and very low weight. Integrated panels of 1-20 mm thickness can be used.

constructiv TELVIS

constructiv TELVIS is a completely new kind of presentation and display system, designed to make display areas come alive. Based on sturdy, precision-made tubes and adjustable connectors, the system permits countless display formats, ranging from vertical to horizontal. The basic elements can be joined to create a wide range of different spatial configurations.

Features and applications
constructiv TELVIS I und II are highly versatile telescoping systems that can be assembled quickly and easily without tools. The telescoping rods lock into position with a simple twist.
With constructiv TELVIS I, screens of any size and format can be combined in a presentation area of between one and four square metres and set up angle-free. Positions anywhere between horizontal and vertical are possible, in varying heights. The maximum display height is approx. 3,720 mm.
constructiv TELVIS II can carry up to four presentation screens and can be set up as a tower unit. Displays measure approx. 600 x 2,400 mm, with a maximum height of approx. 3,000 mm.
Both systems can be used with a wide variety of screen materials: plastic, paper, textiles. This makes them perfect two-dimensional communication media in trade fairs and displays, and they are excellent for subdividing spaces as well. In offices constructiv TELVIS I is especially useful for partitions, screens and acoustic panels.
Thanks to their slender, telescoping rods the constructiv TELVIS systems take up very little room when packed.

Material and dimensions
Both versions of constructiv TELVIS are made of high-strength, precision-made aluminium-zinc alloy tubing. Although very light, they are almost as strong as steel. The connectors are made of precision-cast stainless steel.

constructiv PILA Petite

Our constructiv PILA Petite architectural system has been highly successful - and with good reason. Its moderate dimensions make it suitable for planning small, well-proportioned spaces. Moreover, it is friendly to moderate-sized budgets. The principle is to focus on what is essential. constructiv PILA Petite is perfect for trade fairs, shop-in-shop applications and exhibitions.

Features
The main elements of the system are connectors and supports. They ensure versatility, easy handling and freedom of design. When there are higher static loads, one can add diagonal braces, trusses and angle reinforcements. Thanks to the many available support axis dimensions, designers have a wide range of choices. The supports will hold wall and ceiling panels consisting of many different materials (glass, aluminium, lightweight board, plywood, textiles).

Material and dimensions
constructiv PILA Petite is available in A 980 and A 1,200 grid systems. The connectors, measuring 86 x 86 x 86 mm, are made of stainless steel with a fine matt finish. The supports are made of natural-anodized aluminium.

constructiv PILA

This is a minimalist system in terms of set-up time, transport volume, cost and aesthetics. Self-supporting up to a height of 10 m and able to carry loads of up to 3.5 t, this outstanding architectural system has tremendous appeal to the imagination. It features double storeys, bold ceiling structures that seem to float, and a variety of interior design details. For both interior and exterior structures.

Features
The main elements of the system are connectors and supports. They ensure versatility, easy handling and freedom of design. When there are higher static loads, one can add diagonal braces, trusses and angle reinforcements. Thanks to the many available support axis dimensions, designers have a wide range of choices. The supports will hold wall and ceiling panels consisting of many different materials (glass, aluminium, lightweight board, plywood, textiles).

Material and dimensions
constructiv PILA is available in A 980 and A 1,200 grid systems. The connectors, measuring 136 x 136 x 136 mm, are made of stainless steel with a fine matt finish. The supports are made of natural-anodized aluminium.

constructiv PILA
constructiv PILA Petite
Flying Ceiling

This structure stretches across space like an umbrella. Resting on only four vertical supports, each with a Flying Ceiling set, it gives designers all the architectural freedom they need. The light roof, developed from constructiv PILA and constructiv PILA Petite in combination with vertical supports, almost seems to fly. It can cover large areas with ease, using a minimal amount of material.

Material and dimensions
Flying Ceiling is available in A 980 and A 1,200 grid systems. The connectors are made of stainless steel with a fine matt finish. The supports are made of natural-anodized aluminium.

constructiv PILA Office

With this modular architectural system you can subdivide the space in any building to create autonomous office modules. These can be modified at any time, reducing conversion costs to a minimum. You can create temporary architecture in lofts, industrial buildings or public spaces. Or you can make flexible structures in open plan offices, changing them whenever necessary. And with the mobile Office Box you can take the concept of the self-contained office to its logical conclusion.

Features
The main elements of the system are connectors and supports. They ensure versatility, easy handling and freedom of design. Thanks to the many available support axis dimensions, designers have a wide range of choices. The supports will hold wall and ceiling panels consisting of many different materials (glass, aluminium, lightweight board, plywood, textiles).

Interior acoustics
Acoustic protection for the office system is ensured by means of an innovative system employing textile fillers and laminate panel resonators. The resonators, placed in front of the glass and solid system panels, were developed in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute of Building Physics in Stuttgart. Even in reverberant glass booths, speech can be understood perfectly and a maximum of acoustic comfort is provided.

Material and dimensions
constructiv PILA Office is available in A 980 and A 1,200 grid systems. The connectors, measuring 86 x 86 x 86 mm, are made of stainless steel with a fine matt finish. The supports are made of natural-anodized aluminium.

constructiv CLIC

Assembly of the constructiv CLIC, constructiv CLIC Rund and constructiv CLIC Office systems, based on the magnetic connection principle, is child's play. The modular elements come together with a soft click, growing step by step from a simple display into a complete exhibition, shop, office or trade fair system. Users like the simple, self-explanatory construction principle; viewers admire the austere appearance; designers appreciate the graphic and architectonic versatility. For both planners and users, the planning software "CLIC IT” provides a convenient means of developing complex spatial structures and visualising them in three dimensions.

Material and dimensions
constructiv CLIC is available in A 600 mm axis dimensions, constructiv CLIC Office in A 750 axis dimensions. The interior radius of constructiv CLIC Rund is formed from the axis dimension A 600, the exterior radius from axis dimensions A 600 or A 680. The connectors are natural-anodized aluminium cubes measuring 15 x 15 mm, and the attachment pieces are made of galvanized steel. The connection rods, which have a diameter of 10 mm, are made of natural-anodized aluminium tubing into which two magnets have been pressed.

The company I: Product philosophy

Weightless architecture

Our concept goes back to the prototype of temporary, portable architecture: the nomad's tent. This elementary structure, which seems to stay up with no effort, employs a simple system of rods and connecting nodes. Based on supports and membranes, pressure and tension, this structure serves as a model in terms of function and design for modern architectural systems in trade fairs, exhibitions, shops and offices.
Mobility, flexibility and modularity: these are the principles that Burkhardt Leitner constructiv observes and perfects in its architectural systems, and they are continually being reinvented using modern technical innovations such as the ultra-light, ultra-flexible precision-made aluminium tubing featured in constructiv PON. Another example is the use of clever connectors that permit tool-free assembly and rapid, economical installation and removal.

Temporary architecture requires systems for creating new spaces simply, quickly and economically. Modular spaces must be flexible and continually modifiable, while guaranteeing the visual identity of a company and its products worldwide. For more than ten years Burkhardt Leitner constructiv has pursued this goal, making it one of the leading manufacturers of modular architectural systems. At its offices in Stuttgart a team of planners, designers, technicians and sales people is developing new systems and enhancing existing ones. Sales and planning are handled by a rapidly growing worldwide network of independent licensees and service partners. That is because temporary architecture is always on the move, and local support is essential.

The company II: Sales

International partners

Burkhardt Leitner constructiv devotes considerable effort to the search for sales, service and licence partners that can adequately represent its design philosophy, corporate image and service policy around the world. In most cases, potential partners take the first step. Thanks to their common product philosophy and good personal relationships, the partners have developed a basis of trust that unites them almost like a family. They receive further training at their respective locations in products, marketing, sales and inventory management. A new partner in Canada and the USA will soon open up the classical North American market. New partners in Saudi Arabia and China are successfully paving the way in the markets of the future. Burkhardt Leitner constructiv has partners in the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Dubai, Greece, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom and USA. In Germany Burkhardt Leitner constructiv is represented by more than 60 partners.

The Internet as a marketing outlet
With the growth of worldwide electronic networks the pace of written and visual communication has accelerated. The Internet represents an ideal communication platform - not only for customers but for sales partners. The exchange of information will now be enhanced by means of an international partner log-in system, presented for the first time at EuroShop. Here the company's entire knowledge database will be put at the disposal of its partners and updated on a continuous basis. The exclusive partner log-in will make available price lists, technical documents, a photo archive, catalogue printing materials, advertisement layouts, certificates and a "marketplace” for special sales within the family of sales partners.

Patents for marketing security
Another key element of sales and licence partnerships is a steadfast international patent policy. This guarantees partners security for licensed products in their respective home markets. A patent application has already been submitted for our latest product, constructiv TELVIS.

The company III: A new generation

The management

Michael Daubner joined Burkhardt Leitner constructiv back in 1993, the year the company was founded. As the person in charge of system development he established the basic design principles for the structural systems, thus laying the foundation for the most successful system family. In addition, he introduced constructiv PILA Office, opening up an entirely new business area for the company, the office market. This successful business strategy, coupled with personal trust, made it easy for Burkhardt Leitner, the company's founder and managing director, to appoint Michael Daubner as the new manager in 2001. Since that time, Burkhardt Leitner has kept himself out of day-to-day operations. Although he has continued to meet his representative responsibilities, he has put policy matters into the hands of Michael Daubner. This marks a successful transition to a new generation.

Michael Daubner: curriculum vitae

1963 Born in Fichtelberg, where he grew up
1981-84 Technical school for wood-carvers and joiners in Berchtesgaden: classical training in wood-carving and joinery
1984 Achievement award from the school. Exhibition "Living Children's Room” in Munich
1985-88 Journeyman wood-carver and joiner at several companies. Design and construction of various pieces of furniture
1988 Public-service duty
1989-91 Technical School for Wood Engineering, Stuttgart. Training as a furniture designer, interior designer, wood engineer and master joiner.
1991 "Meisterform Holz” prizewinner
1991/92 Scholarship at the State Academy of Art and Design in Stuttgart, Institute of Interior Architecture and Furniture Design
Several awards for furniture designs. Participation in the Stuttgart Design Exchange. Participation in the project "Incursions: Craftspeople Design Places to Eat”
1993 Joined Burkhardt Leitner constructiv
Since 2001 Managing Director

The company IV: Cooperation

Cooperative agreements and product innovations outside our architecture systems

iGuzzini Leuchte GEM
In cooperation with iGuzzini, the GEM luminaire was perfected by the development department at Burkhardt Leitner constructiv specifically for the trade fair market of constructiv PON. This luminaire will continue to be sold exclusively by Burkhardt Leitner constructiv.

Steng luminaire TIL
The lighting company Steng in Stuttgart developed another modified luminaire to be used at trade fairs with the constructiv PON architecture system,. This luminaire, called TIL, is also sold exclusively by Burkhardt Leitner constructiv.

Illuminated display wall, made by Hinrichs fotofactory
This illuminated wall, featuring special printable sheets and textiles, was developed for the constructiv PON system in collaboration with Hinrichs. Here too, Burkhardt Leitner constructiv has exclusive sales rights.

waterbelt: a new kind of bottle holder
The waterbelt is a practical, adjustable-length belt on which lettering can be printed. Its patented bottle clip with "Easy ClipOff” function accepts almost all standard PET bottles up to a neck diameter of 31 mm. At Euroshop 2005 this new product, made by DNS in Stuttgart, will be distributed by Burkhardt Leitner constructiv as a giveaway with Löwensteiner mineral water. With friendly support from Teusser Mineralquellen.

Frequently asked questions

Question: What are the names of your systems for trade fairs?
Michael Daubner: Our main systems are constructiv PILA und constructiv CLIC. Each has a basic principle, and each is available in various sizes, for various applications and in derivative forms. For example, there are versions for double-storey stands, round structures and office applications.

Question: How long have these systems been on the market?
MD: constructiv PILA came on the market in 1995, and constructiv CLIC was introduced in 1998.

Question: Can you give brief descriptions of these systems?
MD: constructiv PON is a system that employs connecting nodes and rods, along with static elements. The connectors and static elements (diagonal braces) are made of stainless steel with a fine matt finish. The supports are made of anodized aluminium. CLIC is also a system with connectors and rods. The connectors are made of natural-anodized aluminium, the attachment pieces of galvanized steel, and the rods of natural-anodized aluminium tubing with pressed-in magnets for push-fit connections.

Question: What is your position in terms of design standards?
MD: We belong to the upper market segment thanks to three factors: 1. High-quality materials. 2. Excellent functionality. 3. Superior design.

Question: What are the essential features of your systems?
MD: By emphasizing designs that are suitable to the material, we strive to develop long-lasting products with a modern form. Our main development criteria are function, transport volume, flexibility, sustainability, and fast assembly/disassembly.

Question: How are the systems assembled?
MD: constructiv PILA: The connection nodes, rods and static elements are bolted to form positive connections; a tool kit comes with every system. Accessories are attached with sliding blocks that are integral to the system. constructiv CLIC is a magnetic push-fit system that permits the assembly even of complex structures, without instructions or tools.

Question: What kinds of panels are available?
MD: Each system can be used with a large variety of panels. In the case of constructiv PILA we have developed interfaces specific to the material used, such as aluminium, laminated wood or lightweight board. Panels made of other materials, like glass or textiles, can also be used in whatever thickness desired. Panels can also be mounted as door elements. In the case of constructiv CLIC, vinyl sheets and textile fillers are possible, along with glass and aluminium.

Question: In what ways can the systems be expanded?
MD: The system accessories that we offer with constructiv PILA cover all the major components necessary to make it a fully fledged trade fair system. Luminaires and electrical accessories: besides the TURN luminaire family, which we developed, our systems can be used with conventional lighting equipment. Electric wiring is guided with specially developed system elements like contact rail holders or cable covers. Presentation elements: shelves and trays made of glass, wood or coated materials, displays, clothes racks, lockable metal containers, hanging shelves, monitors or integrated flat screens. System accessories offered with constructiv CLIC include all the components necessary for making it into a modular, flexible and easily transportable display system. Luminaires and electrical accessories: suspended lights, lighting panels and the TURN luminaire family. Presentation elements: shelves, diagonal shelves, cardholders, display racks, flat-screen integration, counters, showcases, cable holders, mobile transport containers.

Question: In what direction are trade fairs moving?
MD: Companies are becoming more open to new presentation forms (like in-house shows) and are increasingly tending to do without traditional appearances at trade fairs, which are so expensive. However, especially in international business, where globalization is making it necessary to rethink sales strategies, trade fairs will remain an important marketing instrument.

Question: What effects are shrinking budgets having on exhibition stand construction, and what products and services will you come up with in response to the changing market?
MD: At EuroShop 2005 we will present two new systems: constructiv PON und constructiv TELVIS. constructiv PON is distinguished by its extremely light weight, coupled with high stability. It is suitable for both small exhibition stands and large covered areas. constructiv TELVIS takes a playful approach to presentations, making surfaces come alive.
By reducing the quantity of material used, we have created a low-cost alternative, thus responding to budget cuts. At the same time, we have expanded our range of products, in this way meeting the challenge posed to system manufacturers by changing demands.