SENSE and ELEVATOR 2: power integrated into the worktop
Touchless opening or a retractable system with USB-C and Qi2: two solutions that keep connections accessible only when you need them.
Power connections stop being an add-on and become part of the kitchen design
Kitchen islands and open worktops now serve as preparation areas, gathering points, charging spaces and occasional workstations. Integrating power avoids visible extension strips and places sockets exactly where they are needed.
SENSE prioritises minimum depth and touchless interaction. ELEVATOR 2 uses a retractable tower with more digital charging options. They are not two versions of the same product: they solve different constraints.
Source criteria: all technical and operating data in this guide have been checked against primary BACHMANN sources. Selection recommendations are Industrial Gines editorial interpretations based on these specifications.
The movement of the mechanisms is easier to understand on video
SENSE and ELEVATOR 2 offer very different user experiences. These videos published by BACHMANN show how the mechanisms work and the available integration and charging options.
Sensor, automatic opening and closing when no device remains connected.
Retractable movement, USB-C charging and Qi2 option.
Why integrate sockets directly into the worktop?
BACHMANN offers two different ways to integrate connections into the kitchen: SENSE with automatic sensor opening and only 40 mm of mounting depth, and ELEVATOR 2 as a retractable solution with Soft Opening, 45 W USB-C and an optional Qi2 charger.
Visual integration
SENSE appears as an element integrated into the surface; ELEVATOR 2 leaves only a discreet surface visible when retracted.
Opening to suit the use
SENSE activates touchlessly via sensor; ELEVATOR 2 rises with a finger touch thanks to the Soft Opening mechanism.
Integrated charging
SENSE offers 22 W USB-A/C in compatible variants; ELEVATOR 2 is available with 45 W USB-C and Qi2 with MPP.
Different mounting needs
SENSE requires 40 mm of depth and an Ø121 mm cut-out; ELEVATOR 2 requires 180 mm excluding the cable and an Ø80 ±1 mm cut-out.
The right decision starts underneath the worktop
Available depth, drawers, reinforcements, cable routing and the type of devices to be charged influence the choice more than the exterior appearance. SENSE and ELEVATOR 2 respond to different scenarios.
SENSE: automatic opening and minimum depth
The integrated sensor detects an approaching hand, opens the unit without contact and closes it again when no device remains connected. The official instructions specify approximately 5–20 cm to activate the opening.
Smart sensor
Access to the sockets does not require pressing a button or lifting a cover manually.
- Touchless opening by moving a hand to approximately 5–20 cm.
- Automatic closing when no device remains connected.
Cleaning lock
According to BACHMANN's instructions, the function is locked by holding a hand approximately 0–5 cm from the sensor for 3 seconds.
- This function is intended, among other uses, to make cleaning easier.
- To unlock it, the specific sequence shown in the manufacturer's instructions must be followed.
Ultra-compact body
The shallow depth makes installation easier in furniture where a retractable tower would not fit.
- External dimensions: 129 × 129 × 45 mm.
- Mounting depth: 40 mm.
Optional USB
Some configurations include an optional 22 W USB-A/C charger with Power Delivery.
- Availability depends on the variant.
- The exact product reference should be checked before purchase.
External dimensions, cut-out and mounting depth are different measurements
The unit measures 129 × 129 × 45 mm, the official instructions specify a circular Ø121 mm cut-out, and the mounting depth is 40 mm. This distinction is essential when there is a drawer immediately underneath.
Manufacturer safety instructions
BACHMANN warns that SENSE must not be used as a surface for placing objects because they could move during opening. The instructions also state that the laser beam must not be amplified or viewed using optical aids.
ELEVATOR 2: more charging in a retractable system
With a finger touch, the soft opening mechanism raises the unit smoothly and quietly. Depending on the configuration, ELEVATOR 2 can combine a power socket, 45 W USB-C and Qi2 wireless charging.
Smooth lift, discreet return and charging ready for today's devices
The unit fits into a standard Ø80 mm cut-out and requires 180 mm of mounting depth excluding the cable. It is particularly interesting for islands, coffee areas and surfaces with enough space underneath.
Depending on the configuration, it can include 45 W USB-C and a Qi2 charger with Magnetic Power Profile.
Soft opening
The soft opening mechanism allows the unit to rise with a finger touch, without having to pull it up.
- Smooth and quiet movement.
- Discreet surface when retracted.
45 W USB-C and Qi2
Depending on the variant, ELEVATOR 2 can combine wired and wireless charging at the same point.
- Optional Qi2 with MPP.
- MagSafe compatibility for Apple devices specified by BACHMANN.
IP54 protection
The current official documentation specifies certified IP54 splash protection.
- The installation instructions and applicable electrical regulations must be followed.
- For kitchen installations, BACHMANN specifies that the sealing prescribed by the manufacturer must be applied.
Circular installation
ELEVATOR 2 uses a circular Ø80 ±1 mm cut-out; SENSE is also circular, but requires Ø121 mm.
- ELEVATOR 2 worktop thickness: 10–60 mm.
- Mounting depth: 180 mm excluding the cable.
Designed to stay discreet when not needed
On an island or work area, it brings power and charging together in a retractable system integrated into the worktop. Variants with Qi2 can charge compatible devices even while the unit is retracted.
Comparison: choose according to the real requirement
The decision can be simplified into four questions: how much space is available under the worktop, which type of opening is preferred, how much charging power is required and whether Qi2 matters.
Which priority matters most in your project?
Select the main criterion. The result is a guideline and does not replace validation of the exact product reference.
It is the clearest candidate when there is only 40 mm of depth or drawers are located immediately below the worktop.
| Criterion | SENSE | ELEVATOR 2 | Project impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concept | Built-in with automatic opening | Retractable with soft opening | Automatic flat surface or retractable tower. |
| Activation | Proximity sensor; opening at approx. 5–20 cm | Finger touch | SENSE prioritises touchless operation; ELEVATOR 2 offers direct manual activation. |
| Depth | 40 mm | 180 mm excluding cable | SENSE advantage in furniture with limited space underneath. |
| Cut-out / machining | Ø121 mm | Ø80 ±1 mm | Both use circular machining; ELEVATOR 2 requires a smaller diameter. |
| Worktop thickness | 6–40 mm | 10–60 mm | The actual thickness must be checked before machining. |
| USB | Optional 22 W USB-A/C | Optional 45 W USB-C | ELEVATOR 2 advantage in nominal USB charging power. |
| Wireless | Not specified in the official documentation reviewed | Optional Qi2 with MPP | ELEVATOR 2 is the suitable option when Qi2 is a requirement. |
| Highlighted function | 3 s lock and automatic closing | IP54 protection | These are different, non-equivalent features. |
| Best fit | Limited space underneath | Advanced charging | The functional priority should guide the choice. |
Installation: check before machining
Before machining the worktop, check the dimensions of the specific product reference and follow BACHMANN's installation instructions. The available space underneath and cable routing must also be verified before fixing the unit in place.
The difference in depth is decisive
SENSE takes up 40 mm of mounting depth. ELEVATOR 2 requires 180 mm excluding the cable, so real space for the cable route must also be planned. This difference determines how well each unit can coexist with drawers and structural reinforcements.
The ELEVATOR 2 instructions specify a worktop thickness of 10–60 mm, an Ø80 ±1 mm cut-out and, for kitchen installations, the sealing prescribed by the manufacturer. IP54 protection does not replace the installation instructions for the specific product reference.
Measure
Check depth, worktop thickness, drawers, reinforcements and cable routing.
Validate the reference
Confirm the socket, USB, power cable, finish, accessories and instructions for the exact variant.
Machine the worktop
Follow BACHMANN's official dimensions: Ø121 mm for SENSE and Ø80 ±1 mm for ELEVATOR 2.
Connect and test
Follow the manufacturer's instructions, including the sealing required for ELEVATOR 2 when installed in a kitchen, and test the assembly before closing the furniture.
Applications: a different answer for each area
The right model depends on the use and the furniture. This quick overview helps guide the selection before reviewing the plan and the exact product reference.
Kitchen island
BACHMANN explicitly cites ELEVATOR 2 integration in kitchen islands.
Space above drawers
BACHMANN notes that SENSE's 40 mm depth allows installation in narrow spaces, for example above drawers.
Coffee station
The official ELEVATOR 2 page includes the coffee area or coffee station among its integration scenarios.
Retrofit or modernisation
BACHMANN presents ELEVATOR 2's standard 80 mm cut-out as a suitable option for retrofitting and modernising kitchens.
Frequently asked questions
How does BACHMANN SENSE open?
The sensor detects an approaching hand and automatically opens the unit. The instructions specify approximately 5–20 cm to activate the opening. When no device remains connected, it closes again automatically.
Can it be locked while cleaning?
Yes. According to BACHMANN's instructions, the function is locked by holding a hand approximately 0–5 cm from the sensor for 3 seconds. To unlock it, the specific sequence indicated by the manufacturer must be followed.
What mounting depth and cut-out does SENSE require?
It requires 40 mm of mounting depth, is compatible with worktops 6 to 40 mm thick, and the official instructions specify a circular Ø121 mm cut-out.
What charging options does ELEVATOR 2 offer?
Depending on the configuration, it can include 45 W USB-C and Qi2 wireless charging with Magnetic Power Profile. BACHMANN also specifies MagSafe compatibility for Apple devices on Qi2 variants.
What splash protection does it have?
BACHMANN's current official documentation specifies certified IP54 splash protection for ELEVATOR 2.
What cut-out, thickness and depth does ELEVATOR 2 require?
The instructions specify an Ø80 ±1 mm cut-out, a worktop thickness of 10–60 mm and 180 mm of mounting depth excluding the cable.
Which is better above drawers?
SENSE is usually more suitable when space underneath is limited because it only requires 40 mm of mounting depth. BACHMANN expressly presents it as a solution suitable for narrow spaces, for example above drawers.
Which is better for an island?
ELEVATOR 2 is attractive when a retractable solution with 45 W USB-C or Qi2 is required and enough depth is available. SENSE is especially interesting when space underneath is limited.
