Folding Mechanism of the Kiel Hörn Footbridge, Germany

A fjord of the Baltic Sea divides the centre of the City of Kiel. To provide a pedestrian crossing that allows passage of ships, a folding cable-stayed bridge was built. Its unusual folding mechanism was proposed not only to ensure a safe and robust operation, but also to provide a visual and technical attraction. The deck folds at three hinges by the continuous rotation of a pair of single-speed winches, to which all cable drums are connected.