Articles and whitepapers

Switching on to Curtains and Blinds: Understanding Automated Window Treatments (4/1/2005)

By Samantha Shervill, Silent Gliss

It was not that long ago that motorised curtain tracks were considered the sole preserve of theatres, cinemas and auditoriums. In recent years however, attitudes have changed. Electric curtains and blinds within the home are becoming increasingly popular as advances in technology and production methods have reduced prices to a point where systems are increasingly affordable.

Why choose automated window treatments?

Automated curtains and blinds are becoming more popular for a number of reasons. As people spend more time on holiday than ever, electric, programmable curtain tracks and blinds can increase security by creating the impression that people are still at home. For people with physical limitations, curtain tracks that open and close electronically are a great help, especially if there are many blinds or curtains to open at one time.

Indeed with the current boom in the construction of quality loft-style apartments and houses, it is not unusual to find several or even dozens of blinds in one area. To raise or lower these on a daily basis is tedious and impractical, leaving motorisation an ideal solution.

The two most significant reasons for the increasing trend towards electric curtains and blinds however, is home cinema and the electronic home. How can you enjoy your new 43" plasma flatscreen if the sun is streaming through the window? After spending hundreds, sometimes thousands of pounds on top-of-the-range AV equipment, it is only right that the picture is completed by your curtains and blinds closing at the press of a remote control button.

The Slient Gliss 2 Switch remote offers armchair control

Many new homes now include built-in computer systems that allow functions such as lighting, heating and curtains and blinds to be controlled electronically. Why go around every morning and night switching lights on and off, turning your heating up and down, and opening and closing your blinds, when you can pre-programme it all to happen automatically?

Levels of automation

There is a wide range of automated curtains and blinds available. The simplest systems involve a curtain track, a motor and a switch. By using the switch, the curtain or blind will open and close.

The next level up involves the ability to programme the opening and closing to happen automatically, so a timer facility is required. Then, to avoid having to walk to the window, you can choose a system with a remote control facility.

But what if you have a number of curtains or blinds in a number of rooms that need to be opened and closed at different times? Today's market offers systems that can use combinations of relays and controls that enable several blinds to be linked together to operate at the same time, whilst still allowing individual override switches on each one. Such systems can even be programmed so that blinds in different rooms open and close at different times - perhaps you would prefer the bedroom curtains to open later than the rest of the house!

The discreet Silent Gliss Relay A control unit

Levels of control

All types of conventional curtain tracks and blind styles are available in a motorised form, including Roller, Roman, Venetian and Dim-Out blinds. Motors are either mains- or low-volt-powered according to the size and weight of the blind or curtain in question.

Some systems have been designed so that the drives and motors are integral. For example, some roller blinds have tubular motors built into the actual roller tube, and tracks feature purposed-designed motor units that directly drive belt mechanisms located within the track profiles.

Others incorporate their own adjustable stop position controls, which means that they are not dependant on the control systems as to the fully open or fully closed positions. This enables the simultaneous control of blinds and tracks of different widths and drops, where the motor operating times will differ.

The methods of control for motorised tracks and blinds are as wide as any other electrically-controlled device. They include hard-wired manual switches, dedicated proprietary remote control by RF or IR, control via an automated control system, and ultimately via the Internet or text messaging from anywhere in the world.

The Silent Gliss wall switch is available in stylish finishes to suit modern decor

All leading control system manufacturers offer a means of allowing blind and curtain track motors to be integrated into their systems. These include items such as 'hang on' motor control modules or programmable contact closures which can be dedicated to motor control.

Choosing a system

There are some practical points to consider when thinking about automated window treatments for your home:

* What is your main reason for wanting automated window treatments? Is it security, physical assistance, home cinema or just a penchant for the hi-tech home? Understanding this will immediately start directing you towards the right type of system and price point.
* Will you want to control single or multiple groups of curtains/blinds? If it is multiple groups, will these be in the same or different rooms around the house?
* How would you prefer to be able to control these, will they be pre-programmed to a home computer system or will you want to control them via switch or remote control?
* Automation needs power - is there a power source near to each window? If not, is it going to be possible to get power there? Is there a power source near to where you plan the switches to be? If not, and you would like to limit the required re-wiring, why not consider radio-controlled switches?

Conclusion

Automated home window treatments offer many practical benefits as well as being a symbol of the height of luxury. Blinds and curtains operating at the press of a button on a remote control, or by a simple keystroke on a keyboard, can make a real statement about your home and your lifestyle. However, luxury does come at a cost, and although prices have significantly reduced over recent years, it is important to think carefully about what you want to achieve. Plan carefully, and use the help of a home automation specialist to ensure that you get the most benefit and enjoyment from your investment.

Samantha Shervill is the Marketing Manager for Silent Gliss Ltd, manufacturer of automated blinds and curtains.

www.silentgliss.co.uk