Dynamikum
An experimental field of motion
I move. I’m moving something. And it moves. But why exactly in this way? Visitors can pursue this question in a variety of ways in the Dynamikum. And walking – as the basis of our movement – is the keyword here that draws a bow to the history of the city: the heritage-protected building in the centre of Pirmasens once housed the largest shoe manufactory in Europe.
Shaping change
With the collapse of the former “shoe metropolis”, more than 20,000 jobs were lost. Production sites such as the 16,000 sqm Rheinberg complex threatened to fall into ruins. The aim here was to arouse a new spirit of optimism among the population and to revive the industrial building in a way that would create identity and be attractive nationwide. The plan worked: The Dynamikum is the first science center in Rhineland-Palatinate to be operated as part of a public-private partnership.
A ribbon creates dynamism
When shoes were still being made in the Rheinberger factory, the machines were driven by a ribbons. Therefore we have used a ribbon as a structural element in our interior design: It leads dynamically through the exhibition and provides information about famous people in the region. In the foyer it curves spectacularly to lay at the feet of the visitors like a red carpet. The visitors become aware of their own steps.
Move something - move yourself
Visitors can try, experience, test and enjoy practically any kind of movement over the two floors of the exhibition. What is it that makes movement so special? Movement starts with an impulse. And nothing works without friction.
Out very quickly
Our course ends with two slides. The Brachistochrone (gr. brachystos shortest, chronos time) is the fastest connection of two points by a track on which a ground point slides down without friction. But which of the two slides is the Brachistochrone – the straight one or the curved one?
Contact person
Bernhard Kehrer
Executive Management