Somfy, the world’s largest manufacturer of motors for interior window coverings and exterior solar protections, launched SDN Connect, its new solution for motorized shading in commercial spaces. With a focus on user-friendly design, SDN Connect, which runs on the Somfy Digital Network (SDN), combines cutting-edge hardware and software to create a solution that’s as intuitive as it is innovative. 

The new system comprises a range of products including a Sonesse® 40 RS485 motor, data hubs, and power panels. Engineered for quiet operation, the SDN motors are available in various torque levels and are compatible with both AC and DC power, making them versatile for every indoor setting. Meanwhile, the data hubs serve as the backbone of the system, facilitating communication. For low-voltage solutions, SDN PowerConnect Panels combine power and communication for centralized control. With these new components, designing, deploying and troubleshooting commercial motorized shading solutions becomes much easier. 

“We are passionate about creating solutions that ensure optimal living and working conditions by bringing simplicity to design, deployment, and maintenance of commercial shading solutions,” said Russell Horowitz, National Specifications Manager at Somfy North America. “We continue to design dynamic control solutions based on customer demand. We are seeing unique requirements from all building types, including the commercial market, that would benefit from a solution such as the SDN network.”

Included in the launch of SDN Connect is new software called Set Pro by Somfy. This tool simplifies the commercial commissioning process, allowing dealers to create and plan the project remotely before setting foot on the project site. 

Horowitz added, “The new SDN suite has been designed in direct response to customer feedback with a user-friendly design that offers increased flexibility to tailor building controls according to the unique requirements of each building. SDN is designed to scale seamlessly and is able to accommodate expansions and upgrades while harnessing the power of smart controls. Whether dealers are seeking to integrate with AV systems, lighting controls, or BMS systems, Somfy’s dedicated devices enable streamlined integration.”

For More Information: https://www.somfypro.com/sdn-connect

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Somfy has announced today the debut of the Sonesse 40 PoE motor range. One year after launching the smallest PoE motor on the market — the Sonesse 30 PoE motor — Somfy now complements its lineup with a customizable solution for larger-sized applications.

Sonesse 40 PoE motors provide a full range of options, available in three sizes — 2, 4 and 6Nm — to operate even the largest of applications. The adoption of the new IEEE 802.3bt Standard enables PoE switches to deliver up to 90W, which is significantly more power than the original 15W IEEE 802.3af standard. As a result, a wider range of powered devices can be supported on the network, including 6Nm motors for shades.

Despite being one of the most robust motors on the market, the UL-listed Sonesse 40 PoE is quiet and compact, moving fabrics smoothly and capable of fitting narrow windows with smaller tube profiles, which helps preserve visual aesthetics and maintain unimpeded views.

Enhancing the Sonesse 40 PoE motor is the Somfy Synergy API, which allows for simple, direct integration with leading third-party control systems, like Control4, Crestron, Crestron Home, URC, ELAN, and RTI. This precludes the need for additional gateways and user interfaces to operate window shades, and with Somfy’s PoE Motor Configuration Software, systems integrators can configure multiple motor-driven products or devices over IP from a single interface. Plus, safety and control features are built in, including adjustable speed, soft start and stop, and motor position feedback to maintain privacy and security.

The new Sonesse 40 PoE motor offers systems integrators the installation flexibility of Power over Ethernet technology. By delivering power and data signals to the motor on a single Cat5e/Cat6 Ethernet cable, PoE reduces the amount of time and cabling required, which results in a faster and less labor-intensive installation. Since no dedicated AC electrical wiring or electrical outlet is needed, systems integrators can handle the installation without a licensed electrician and without being constrained by the proximity of electrical outlets. Because PoE is inherently compatible with IP networked systems, Sonesse 40 PoE motor-driven shades and screens can be easily integrated into a complete smart home network. Additional PoE motor-driven products and devices can be added to the network, giving systems integrators a simple, complete, and economical ecosystem.

Somfy PoE motors are powered by a reliably secure protocol that employs modern security and encryption standards. With intelligent power delivery, PoE is designed to protect network equipment from power overloads as well as underpowering, and even incorrect installations. IEEE standards ensure the Power Source Equipment senses and delivers the correct negotiated power to powered devices.

For More Information: https://www.somfypro.com/solutions/technology-integration/power-over-ethernet

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Somfy, the global leader in manufacturing motors for interior window coverings and exterior solar protections, proudly celebrates Maryellen Oswald, Partnerships Business Development Manager, for being recognized as one of the distinguished honorees of the 2024 WiCT Legacy Awards. 

Women in Consumer Technology (WiCT) is an organization dedicated to empowering women and fostering the progression of their careers in the consumer technology industry. The prestigious awards ceremony, held at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, NV on January 9th, 2024, annually acknowledges outstanding women who are trailblazers in the consumer technology sector.

Ty Saville, VP of Commercial Specification, Partnerships, and Lobbying at Somfy North America, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled for Maryellen to be recognized by WiCT; it is a well-deserved honor. With her role at Somfy, affiliation with Connected Design Magazine, and background in interior design, she possesses a comprehensive understanding of how technology, particularly Somfy’s, seamlessly integrates into living spaces. Maryellen’s dedication, design experience, extensive knowledge in consumer technology, and commitment to supporting women in the industry make her a valuable asset to our team and customers.”

Maryellen Oswald, Partnerships Business Development Manager at Somfy North America, shared her gratitude, stating, “It is truly an honor to receive this award from WiCT alongside other inspiring honorees in the 2024 Legacy Class. I take pride in being part of a community dedicated to advancing women in consumer technology. At Somfy, I leverage my experience and expertise in interior integrations to drive partnerships and support customized solutions for our client.

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Somfy recently announced its successful integration and certification with Apple Home, marking a significant advancement in smart home technology. This certification facilitates a seamless connection between Somfy’s supported Zigbee motors, responsible for powering interior window applications, and the TaHoma switch.

Zigbee 3.0 technology is renowned for its interoperability, global acceptance, and robust security measures. It serves as the backbone for connecting various smart home devices to a unified network, creating a harmonious ecosystem of synchronized products. Through the TaHoma switch, the newly attained certification with Apple Home offers a secure avenue to control Somfy-powered motorized window coverings via Zigbee motors. This control is easily accessible through the Apple Home app and Siri on a range of Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, HomePod, and Mac.

Apple Home’s integration enables users to finely adjust Somfy shades with the added convenience of automation, allowing for entirely hands-free management. This innovation extends Somfy’s reach to direct integration into five major smart home control ecosystems, including Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, and IFTTT.

Somfy’s TaHoma App continues to be a central hub for a wide range of smart home functionalities, compatible with all major devices. The user-friendly and intuitive interface simplifies the control of smart home shading products. Users can effortlessly command shade movement through voice commands. The customizable interface empowers users to personalize controls, add devices, scenes, or rooms tailored to their preferences, and even set up automated controls based on scheduled actions.

For More Information: https://www.somfysystems.com/en-us/

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Ashutosh Wad & Manjunath Hathwar of Space Dynamix along with Beyond Alliance have designed a contemporary Smart Apartment that is characterised by clean lines and subtle colours. 

In this totally claustrophobic, chaotic urban space around us, this residential apartment transcends you into a different zone where you can spend some time delving into your mind and relaxing.

This 4 BHK apartment designed by architect Ashutosh Wad and Manjunath Hathwar of Mumbai-based Space Dynamix along with Crestron – Beyond Alliance has a timeless appeal. Explaining the design concept Ashutosh Wad adds, “In this project, we have aimed at achieving a minimalistic yet practical decor. Detailing is such that maintenance is minimal thus making this abode easy to live in, never overpowering the senses while elevating one’s mood gently.”

The family of husband and wife, two daughters, one son, and grandmother all three generations living under one roof wanted simple yet classy decor for their home. 

Explaining the design concept, Manjunath Hathwar adds, “We tried to incorporate colours in limited proportion. One admires the extensive use of blue Romano Marble around the bed back and the same flouted pattern is replicated in other areas.” 

The layout planning was the most important phase in this project as the client was not happy with the builder-provided layout. The team redesigned the interiors to incorporate all the client’s requirements. Another important aspect of the design was the integration of Smart Automation into this apartment. Adding further insight into the design concept Manjunath adds, “One of the most important challenges was the ceiling height, so we opted for in-ceiling speakers in such a way that the ceiling height wasn’t compromised at all and yet we were able to get a 7.1 audio in place.” 

Beyond Alliance, the technology partners for this project provided their expertise for automation, audio-visuals, networking, and security solutions. Beyond Alliance has opted for Crestron systems to add intelligence to the homes. Right from Human Centric Lighting to dimmable tunable lights, Somfy motorized shades and drapes, biometric smart locks from eKey, surveillance in common areas and a robust Wi-Fi wired mesh network using Aruba are skillfully incorporated in the home.

Speaking about the advantages of Smart Automation Ashutosh adds, “The automation is not a product that breeds laziness, it is all about adding artificial intelligence into the homes. Everyday routines of the users are fed into the system. Drapes open at the scheduled times, sleep patterns in terms of when to switch the AC Off and when to turn the fan On at what hour of the night and at what speed are all a part of the night scene. We program energy-saving routines by balancing the use of natural and artificial lighting.” 

He further elaborates, “User-friendliness is the core reason for choosing Crestron. The App is customizable. The youngest and eldest should be able to use the projector and be able to navigate through the tech without any learning curve.”

Encouraging younger budding designers Manjunath adds, “Automation system can only be as good as its integrator, and after-sales support strength is as important as technical expertise. I would strongly urge our design and build industry to make each corner of their home as smart as they make it aesthetically beautiful. The fun begins when design meets intelligence.”

Brand Details:

• Automation System Used: Crestron – Beyond Alliance
• Lighting: DALI dimming
• Security Cameras: Hikvision
• Digital Locks: Yale
• Biometrics: eKey
• Smart Locks: Yale
• Hardware Used: KNX
• Networking Devices Used: ArubaMotorized Shades and Drapes: Somfy

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Architects and Interior designers often find themselves in a situation, where their clients ask them, why they should opt for Smart Automated Shades and Blinds. We have the answers to all of your questions right here.

Smart automated Shades and Blinds are no longer a fancy option. Gone are the days when their use was restricted to high-end homes and commercial projects because they were expensive! Today, many national and international brands in the market offer various options that are competitively priced. Plus, they can be integrated with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings ecosystems, etc. The most popular brands in this segment are Somfy, Lutron, Hogar Controls, Hunter Douglas, Crestron, Buildwell Motors, A-OK Motors and Funk Motors to name a few.  

Market Drivers

The major reason for the increasing popularity of smart shades and blinds is the latest advancements and the convenience it offers to users. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global blinds and shades market is projected to grow from $6.12 billion in 2022 to $8.76 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 5.27% in the forecast period, 2022-2029.

There are many reasons for the rising demand, and according to Future Market Insights, innovative energy-saving features in blinds and shades are drawing in more customers. Moreover, this is expected to significantly support the concept of smart buildings coupled with distributed energy systems. Growing consumer awareness of customizing product solutions offered by various manufacturers in the blind and shades market is also one of the reasons fueling the growth of the global blinds and shades market.

Smart Shade Controls

There are various types of smart shade controls offered by different manufacturers. The most popular way to operate smart shades will be via Apps. There are dedicated Apps from the maker designed specifically for a given smart shade. In other instances, the smart shade may function with one or more of the popular smart home ecosystems, including Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, and Amazon Alexa.

Smart Displays like the Google Nest Hub or Nest Hub Max can provide touch control for smart shades, though the controls might only be able to open and close the shades in the most basic of ways. Smart shades frequently use Works with Google integrations to connect to Google smart displays. Integrations with Amazon Echo Show displays might also be feasible. Smart speakers are built into smart displays, allowing voice commands to be used with them as well.

The feature of Voice Control with Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, or Google Assistant may indeed be an option for a given smart shade, but enabling that functionality may require an add-on smart speaker or smart home hub.

Many smart shade makers offer a companion Wireless Remote Control option. These can be convenient when you want to operate an individual shade without having to locate your smartphone or try to recall a specific voice command. They can be snapped to the wall or sit on a coffee table for easy access. These may communicate with the smart shade via radio frequency (RF), Z-Wave, Bluetooth, or other wireless communication protocols.

Another option for some brands of smart shades is In-Wall Lighting and Control Systems. These smart lighting controls can be equipped with optional colour LCD touch-screen displays to control smart shades and other devices in addition to replacing standard lighting wall switches. 

Whole-Home Automation Systems are another option that are expensive systems, which system integrators can install, and can integrate motorized and smart shades. They have dedicated on-wall touch panels, remote controls, and mobile device controls.

Smart Home Scenes can also be used to control groups of smart shades. In this case, scenes have been set up to operate all the shades in the house with a single tap, or even just one room at a time. A lockdown scene has been set up to lock all of the doors and secure the smart door locks in addition to simultaneously closing all of the shades.

Smart Home Scenes By tapping a button in an app, scenes allow multiple smart shades to be controlled simultaneously. These scenes can be combined to control other smart home accessories connected to the same network, like smart door locks or smart lighting, and they are simple to set up. Typically, voice control can also be used to run scenes.

Smart Home Ecosystem Integration

The new Matter Standard may change everything over time, but today the compatibility of smart shades between the Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings ecosystems is very mixed.

Smart shades that include onboard Z-Wave or Zigbee radios can offer the best integration across the ecosystems, particularly when used with the Samsung SmartThings platform. They are also a good bet for the long term since they will ultimately work with Matter and are also among the favorites of professional integrators.

The Samsung SmartThings ecosystem offers a broad range of integration options for smart shades. The latest SmartThings hub offers both Z-Wave and Zigbee radios, and can manage an entire home fitted with smart shades and other smart accessories.

Somfy one of the prominent brands in this segment offers curtains and tubular shades that operate flawlessly, are the fastest and quietest shades available, and are compatible with all popular smart-home platforms. They help save energy and improve home security.  Sonesse 50 Ultra are the ultra-quiet motors from Somfy for interior blinds. The newly patented and improved spring brake eliminates stopping and tilting noise. Glydea Ultra is packed with innovations that provide an acoustic performance of less than 38dBA, one of the quietest motorization solutions in the market. Adding Taral Trivedi, Managing Director, Somfy India says, “Somfy offers both motorization and control solutions for various window covering and access applications such as Interior blinds and curtains, Shutters and sun protection, connected home, access management, security. Somfy offers control solutions on open protocol platform of digital and wireless technologies available in the market, reference Dry Contact, RS485, Zigbee, KNX, IFTTT which allows third-party systems to be able to integrate seamlessly with Somfy motors. These controls allow for interoperable options of read and write commands which in turn allows the end user to establish two-way communications where you get reports on status checks and error feedback. Further extending the flexibility of control strategies, Somfy offers API-based services for customized integration with third-party automation systems in the market. Somfy has partnered with leading technology providers and system integrators in the market to offer end-to-end customized solutions.”

Adding insight on the Smart Shades and controls, Jubin Thomas, Territory Sales Manager, Lutron says, “Lutron designs and manufactures smart shades and lighting controls. We don’t just care about the performance of our smart shades such as silent operation and perfect alignment, but also the aesthetics including the shades themselves and the controllers to control the shades. We have various styles of controllers like Palladiom Keypads, Alisse Wall Controls, and a wireless controller named Pico, offering our customers different designs, finishes, and applications to meet their needs. Lutron offers seamless integration between our smart shades and lighting controls and various control option like wired, wireless, timeclock, voice, and mobile app control. On top of this, users can add in sensors like occupancy sensors or daylight sensors. With occupancy sensors, it will allow the shades to open or lights to turn on automatically when a room is occupied, or vice versa. With daylight sensors, the shades will move according to the sun positioning and incoming daylight. This is what Lutron calls total light control with utmost intelligence.”

One of the major components of Smart Shades and Blinds is smart motorization.  It is one of the most important components, while many smart home accessories may operate invisibly in the background, it’s the built-in shade motors whirring in sync with onboard wireless radio chips and software that make smart shades the most convenient choice for users.

One of the most trusted and popular brand that offers a wholesome solution is Hogar Controls. The Brand offers Smart Curtains & Blinds with varying degrees of intelligence based on usage. They have the widest and unique range of products which includes Curtain Motors that support 40-130 KG of load and blind motors which can take 15-150 KG of load. Being a leader in Home Automation they provide multi-protocol compatibility for their motors be it Z-wave, Zigbee, Wi-Fi or KNX. Hogar Controls’ VL40 & VL60 motors are one of the smartest available in this segment. Not only can you connect them with any 3rd party automation, one can use them seamlessly via App and Voice Control without even using any Automation system all together. The motors have an automation chip in built which allows them to operate via Hogar App and Alexa by just connecting to available Wi-Fi Network. And the smart curtain module allows any brand motor be it curtain or blind operate seamlessly on Hogar App.

“Apart from a wide range of Smart Motors we offers smart accessories which includes flexible tracks, Multi-Channel Remotes, Smart receiver, Smart Touch Panels etc. Their USP includes integration with any Smart Home Automation, Super silent motors, compatibility with voice assistants, compatibility with roller, roman, venetian, skyline and zebra blinds, says Jaspreet Singh Bhatia, Vice President Hogar Controls

While Buildwell Motors manufactures tubular and curtain motors that can be used to automate venetian blinds, wooden blinds, roller blinds, and curtains. Their motors can be controlled using their beautiful glass facia RF remotes, Smartphones using Wi- fi or any wired/wireless home automation. Their motors are compatible with all home automation systems. They are the only curtain motor company in India, manufacturing all plastic components, aluminium tracks and metal hardware in-house, which gives them the advantage to control quality in comparison to other companies who import from other countries.

Smart motorization undergoes regular technical updates. The most recent is the AM75 Curtain Motor by A-OK, a new generation Helical Gearbox design Curtain Motor with Superior Performance, good load bearing capacity, being one of the highest in its segment, and can work on multiple platforms such as Home Automation via dry contact, Home Automation via high voltage AC power supply, with a remote control device, as well as voice commands over leading platforms such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, etc. and loaded with all the leading features.  

Advantages of Shades and Blinds

Light Control, and Comfort.

Whether your goal is to maximize or minimize daylighting, reduce glare, or simply stay comfortable, smart shades can make it easy to automatically control the amount of light coming into your windows to meet the needs of the moment. This modulation can happen many times throughout the day and can be tailored on an individual window or group of windows basis. You may want all of your shades to open at sunrise and close at sunset, or have them open or close at different times during the day based on their orientation to the sun, time of day, and depth of overhangs. Most shades are made from llight-filtering fabrics and can be adjusted by voice control to bring in softened daylight. They are each powered by 8 AA batteries, housed in wands hidden behind the shade housings.

Solar Heat Gain and Loss + Energy Savings.

Automations on a schedule can help minimize solar heat gain through your windows on hot days by closing the shades (to reduce cooling loads), or maximizing solar heat gain on cold days by opening them (to reduce heating loads). These hands-off automations can help save on energy costs throughout the year.

Now that we have understood the technical part we give you the option to select the right type of shades

Types of Smart Shade Designs.

Smart shade types and designs can be as varied as the windows they are intended to cover.

Roller Shades. Roller shades are the most universal of all smart shades, and nearly every manufacturer will offer them in their product line-ups. Mechanically, these are the simplest of all motorized shades and generally require the least amount of lift force from the motor—meaning the batteries tend to last longer. Their cost tends to be at the lower end of the smart shade range.

Layered Shades. Among the newest designs are smart layered shades (often called banded shades or zebra shades), where the shade consists of two layers or fabric with alternating bands of sheer and opaque material. They tend to be at the higher end of the cost range, and can be the most dramatic to watch as they raise, lower, or adjust.

Sheer Shades. Also among the newer designs are smart sheer shades (often called soft blinds), all-fabric shades that have two layers of fabric connected by fabric vanes. They function more like Venetian blinds, and also tend to be at the higher end of the cost range.

Cellular Shades. Cellular shades (also known as honeycomb shades) are also offered by many smart shade manufacturers, and these are generally in the middle of the cost range. They typically offer more energy savings than other designs due to the air trapped inside the cellular vanes.

Venetian Blinds. There are many smart Venetian blinds on the market to choose from. Due to the nature of their design, they tend to be heavier and require more lift force than other designs—so typically the lift operation is not motorized. Instead, the motorization and automation are restricted to tilting the vanes for light control. These shades can be made of aluminum, vinyl, wood, or other materials. Cost tends to be at the lower to middle segments of the range.

Types of Smart Shade Power Options.

Smart shade motorization requires continual access to electrical power. While many smart shades will be powered via batteries, shades operate via wireless connections. Plug-in Power Adapters is also a viable option, particularly where you plan on installing a large number of shades throughout the home. Hard Wiring can be installed on dedicated in-wall control boxes and power supplies in strategic locations. This will enable you to invisibly hide all wires in the walls. Solar Panels are offered by Some manufacturers. In this case, a small solar panel positioned near the shade is used to keep the batteries recharged. This may be a good option where the window location receives sufficient sunlight to fully recharge the batteries each day.

Now that we have cleared all your doubts and provided our readers with the latest updates we are sure you are confident to make the right choice.

The post Latest Innovations In Smart Shades And Blinds appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Josh.ai continues to expand the power and range of artificial intelligence in the home through integration with Somfy, the world’s largest manufacturer of tubular motors for interior window coverings and exterior shading solutions.

The partnership between the two well-known brands in the custom integration channel will benefit the design-build community. This venture will provide multiple shading and screening fabricators with a recommended voice control platform. The added advantage for the clients will be to adjust the degree of daylight warming their homes or conveniently automate a theater screen, Josh.ai now provides them with a natural and privacy-oriented means of control.

Starting with the Tahoma interface, Josh.ai has targeted wireless and retrofit applicable installs with their first iteration of Somfy integration. Support for Somfy’s low voltage offerings, including UAI+, will be coming in a future update.

Integrators will enjoy an efficient deployment process for Wi-Fi-connected Tahoma bridges after enabling third-party integration for Josh.ai in the Somfy app. Once authorized, Josh.ai will automatically begin pulling in the following devices from Somfy for native control: Shades, Blinds, Draperies, Exterior Screens, Awnings, Rolling Shutters, Pergolas, Projection Screens, and Zigbee Smart Plugs.

By communicating directly to each device within a project, the Josh.ai integration ensures a user-friendly experience. The case of shade grouping applies to not only a room’s shades, but sub-types like sheers and blackouts as well.

Utilizing Josh.ai’s advanced device aliasing capabilities will enable clients to experience more convenience when interacting with their homes. Natural language commands like, “Ok Josh, close the blackout shades and lower the theater screen,” as well as, “Ok Josh, raise the first-floor solar sheers halfway,” are now possible with this new Somfy integration.

“When combined, voice control and solar shading add an aspect to daylighting that allows an occupant’s space to react to their needs at any given moment. Whether it’s exposing views, providing shade, or protecting valuable artwork, the combination of movement and voice control is something to experience, and not soon forget,” said Brittany Mier y Terán, Somfy’s partnership and CI channel manager.

The post Josh.ai and Somfy partner for Motorized Control appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

There is a high demand for intelligent home-connected devices in the residential segment. Every year, technologically upgraded solutions are launched by various brands that claim to provide a state-of-the-art experience. Plus, these smart home solutions are using AI and other advanced data tools to try and create a more cohesive experience for their clients.

Smart Home Expo 2022 created this perfect platform for professionals, manufacturers, system integrators, and retailers to discuss the finer details and challenges of how they could work in coordination with each other to bring a unified experience to the segment of smart home.

The question remains, ‘How to bring a unified experience to smart homes?‘ The Smart Home Expo 2022 brought this up as a subject, among others, as a part of the panel discussions held during the course of the two-day event.

The eminent panel included renowned interior designer Amit Porwal, the Principal Designer at Icon Projects Inspace Pvt. Ltd. as the Moderator who was joined by other panelists  Ar. Shweta Deshmukh, Founder of DezineBox; Mr. Harsh Mehta, Managing Partner at Future Automation Solutions, Mr. Gianluca Trovato, Business Development Manager, Connected Solutions, Somfy and Mr. Volkan Alcinkaya Managing Director, i-Luxus GmbH.

Mr. Porwal initiated the discussion by giving a brief introduction and asked the panelist, What do you think about integrating Smart Home Solution in your projects and What does the future hold?”

It was aptly answered by Ar. Deshmukh, “Smart automation is no longer considered as `Luxury’. In fact, they are the need of the hour! It is the responsibility of architects and interior designers to educate, encourage and convince our clients on how important it is to integrate automation in the projects.”

“My approach towards educating my clients is I broadly divide the entire section into three segments: security, lighting and entertainment. Another important aspect is sustainability, so all these factors security, comfort, and ambience are encompassed by sustainability. Today, it is very important for us to reduce the carbon footprint and wellness is also added.” continued Ar. Deshmukh.

“Now wellness is an extra added factor to automation, which is simply superb. We wear smartwatches and control a lot of functions etc. So this is again an added value to automation.” she concluded.

Adding his insight on the same topic, Mr. Gianluca Trovato, a representative of Somfy said,” We are specialists in the solar shading and home automation solution.” Trovato continued “It is my duty to drive the home automation for our company in this area and to pick up the concept, for me, home automation is comfort for sure. Although it’s not yet for everybody and is not the answer to all needs, it does make life easier.”

While Mr. Volkan Alcinkaya, Managing Director of i-Luxus GmbH joined in by saying that although we have progressed with the concept of smart homes and artificial intelligence in residences in comparison to smartphones, home automation will follow a similar trajectory. He continued “What drives you to do something is the aspiration to do it and own it. It is the same with smart home solutions. Firstly, we have to adopt such technologies to have a sustainable world and to save energy. The second thing is to provide us comfort and wellbeing.”

He concluded by agreeing with Mr. Trovato, that while many people cannot afford home automation, a solution can be achieved within the smart home business, interior designer and a system integrator, until then there will always be those who want to opt for a smart home.

Being an excellent moderator, Mr. Porwal raised another question to the panelist ”How do you both lay a foundation for a client? Or how do you lay a foundation with the constant evolution of smart technology? How do you both try to balance that into a project, which you’re going to start?  

Mr. Harsh Mehta, Managing Partner at Future Automation Solutions, took this opportunity to brief the audience about his company by saying, “We are a system integration-based company from Ahmedabad and we are the early adopters of KNX and smart home technology. And ever since then, we have done more than 400 projects across the various segment.”

Mr. Mehta went on to address the audience’s question and explained, “My take on this would be that automation technology has been an evolution. So, it was not a technology that existed the way it is today. It has evolved over the years. When we meet clients, our aim is to educate them about what are the current solutions available, but more importantly to solve their doubts and queries.”

He further narrators a beautiful example of a tech-friendly client project, with a big house. “The client’s daughter prefers sleeping at a 16 degrees temperature every night, the challenge for my client was having different temperatures for different rooms. This was easily achieved with home automation, by giving access to all the temperature control settings to the client in his room.”

“So every day we encounter clients with different challenges, whether my daughter is safe at home, whether my AC is turned on or not, whether I left my geyser open on etc. all this can be seamlessly managed with automation systems. That’s where we evolved, and that’s where we try to educate our clients,” added Mr. Mehta

Ar. Shewta Deskhum, gladly shared an experience from her college days with a book titled, Future Shock by Alvin Toffler. She went on to explain how at the time she did not relate to it, as personal technology such as mobile phones were just introduced to the world, but in today’s age, she can see technological evolution happening at a faster pace than ever before, turning the words by author Toffler true.

Mr. Porwal continued the discussion by diverting the attention to Mr. Trovato, Somfy, who had more to say on how home automation should be pitched to clients.

“We need to leverage on the benefit, or we are asking people to spend a little bit more money. Because this is how things are. So, what is the benefit to them? So, for me, the first step is to listen carefully to what they want and need, and then connect what they desire and need. So, what products can we provide to meet their need? As a result, we’ll have to work on it. So, if there is a need for security, then one should only discuss that aspect, do not give an overload of information because a lot of people buy home automation and then are dissatisfied because they bought things they didn’t need.” said Mr. Trovato.

After the panel agreed with Mr. Trovato’s answer, the moderator, Mr. Amit Porwal, placed the question of the hour in front of them.

“I believe it’s common for all of us and which I believe is a very important question in terms of understanding that there is a constant evolution of technology. How do we arrive at something which is called a unifying standard?” questioned Mr. Porwal.

Mr. Volkan Alcinkaya, the Managing Director of i-Luxus GmbH, was quick to answer,” Firstly, Why do we have to get unified? Let’s make it clear that a smart home means different controls. For example, automation for lighting, AC shutter and blind security, CCTV alarm, and solar system consumption. They need to work in a circle smart way, and they coordinate and are interlinked with each smart feature. All the systems have their own protocol, but they are some with common protocols.

Explaining the different integrations to the audience he further adds, “For example, think about a smart villa at the door, you have the doors, unit door and phone unit. When the doorbell rings, you are receiving the video. They are not from the same manufacturer, but this protocol is from the door. The phone is SIP or VoIP. And the door panel is KNX. But these systems are integrated into each other to perform a specific function.” said Mr. Alcinkaya

Speaking about the latest development in this segment he said, “IoT, for example, has its own protocols, such as MQTT and others. But it’s also quite easy for us as a manufacturer to start working on the integration as soon as we hear this. We’re also offering shorter gateways than the system requires. The only thing is that I’d like to say a few words about the system integrator and designer with whom I worked closely. Can I remark, for instance, that this is a new technology and that people should be aware of it? The most significant task, in fact, is on the manufacturer’s side. You must complete the training. We provide training, assist with design, and work with the system integrator and designer.” he concluded.

Mr.Mehta further added,” So I think most of the people out there must have either used or designed a home theater. It’s a very common sight to see multiple remotes on a home theater desk. You know, there are at least eight remotes that I can count on a home theater desk. Assume we’re in the business of selling automation. And the idea is to combine these remotes, so that you only have to deal with one and give them activity-based buttons, making things easier for people of all ages. Otherwise, if I asked my client, I assumed we weren’t using automation. So the house owner would say, “My husband will come and play for me,” and the homemaker would agree. My son is going to perform for me. My daughter, on the other hand, will perform for me. Now that we’re unified, we can combine everything into a single remote or app. And if there’s one simple remote that isn’t compatible with automation, I’d still handle it because that’s where unification fails. And that’s where unification is so important. And that’s where standards and protocols are important.” he continued.

“Today, I represent a protocol called KNX, which is one of the world’s most widely used protocols. This standard is followed by more than 500 manufacturing companies. The goal now is to bring everything together. The goal is to ensure that more and more equipment, functions, and appliances are brought up to a standard that makes them simple to operate. They’re simple to work with. They’re simple to replace. It’s simple to find a replacement. And there’s a lot of freedom out there because you may want everything under the sun today, but you don’t want to get reliant on a brand. That is where protocols and technologies come into play. So, we’re discussing Matter, our exclusive technology.” Mr. Mehta concluded.

After this interesting answer on the technological side of Smart Home, Ar. Desmukh added, “However, as an architect, I’d like to add one point. India, as well as investment countries and European countries, should be standardized. It’s the norm. It is, in fact, a law. There is legislation requiring the usage of automation in all of your homes, as well as public locations. It’s a must-have, but it’s not yet available in India. As a result, specific laws and regulations should be enforced, which will trickle down depending on the type of area, whether residential, commercial, public, or institutional. Clients would be encouraged by this enforcement or these regulations. Of course, how we present it is all up to us. If it’s a requirement, you’d get a bonus if you integrate automation into your home.”

Mr. Amit Porwal then announced the last segment of the panel discussion, the audience Q&A round. He opened the floor to the audience consisting of system integrators, architects, and interior designers. They had a very interesting set of questions for the esteemed panelists.

An audience member asked,” There are various technologies and platforms, where do we learn all the technologies available? To explain it to our staff members, they have to learn this. Where do you get all this information from under one roof or one source?”

Mr. Mehta brilliantly addressed this question by this audience member by saying,”

Our industry has been evolving rapidly and that’s why people feel that we miss out on a lot of knowledge and information, but in this Smart Home Expo 2022, if you look at the brands over here, the knowledge partner is an organization called CEDIA.

CEDIA is a knowledge partner being a member of CDM myself. I see that as a great benefit to the entire fraternity. So be the design fraternity or system integration fraternity and the manufacturing organizations are all part of this to make sure that the right knowledge, the right information, and certified courses are available on the various topics, which you and your team can enroll and upgrade yourself. “

“And I believe that if this reaches a wider audience, many malpractices will be reduced. Malpractices involve a lack of information, expertise and procedures when a person is not properly prepared with the appropriate attitude. This is when these crash educative classes come in handy. I would encourage my entire community of system integrators to become a member and make the right use of this platform to equip yourself and your entire team to get a better hands-on experience with these.

Mr. Volcan added, while answering the audience member’s question,” While there is a wealth of knowledge available on platforms like CEDIA and KNX. The websites of the manufacturers have information. In each of them, there are departments such as sales and logistic training, and we provide training every day, online, for your knowledge.”

As the session was drawing to a close, another audience member asked about the future of home automation stating, “IT was not an integral element of any firm 15 to 20 years ago, but IT is today an integral part of any large business. You’ll need an IT partner if you want to expand and scale your business. Similarly, five or ten years down the road, architects, smart building management, or home automation. It will change with time, and they will need an IT partner.

“I’m sure some of the panelists are aware of this. Like five years ago, the Internet of Things(IoT) and other protocols will continue to evolve. We didn’t have the habit of replacing our phones every year or two. We used to change it every four or five years, but now we do it every year since technology and home automation are both evolving. We used to have a switchboard in our house that lasted atleast 10 years, but today the switch we’re using will only last three or four years at most. As a result, IT must be connected with manufacturers, architects, and system integration. They require an IT partner.

After a well-deserved round of applause from the audience for their inputs and questions, each of the panel members was graciously thanked and they received a token of appreciation from Ar. Jabeen L Zacharias, National President, IIID who distributed the Speaker Plaques. This panel discussion was well-appreciated by the audience and the industry at large, as the discussion addressed at Smart Home Expo 2022, truly aided in a better understanding of the future of smart homes.

The post Panel Discussion: ‘How To Bring A Unified Experience To Smart Homes?’ appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Somfy has announced the launch of its Control4 to Digital Motor Interface. The Control4 to Digital Motor Interface enables seamless integration of the Somfy Digital Network (SDN) motor family with Control4 systems to deliver an integrated home automation solution.

Somfy’s Control4 to Digital Motor Interface enhances the smart home environment with better bi-directional communication, less power consumption, and seamless integration capabilities.

• Easily integrates with Control4 systems
• Connects directly to the motor for power
• Identifies and connects to the motor automatically
• Provides feedback to the Control4 system with a 500ms real time response

The Control4 to Digital Motor Interface (DMI) is a wireless end node within a Control4 system. It receives Control4 Zigbee transmissions and converts them to motor control commands (via Control4 Integration systems) for Somfy’s line of Sonesse 50 RS485 (AC/DC), Sonesse 30 RS485 (DC), and Glydea ULTRA RS485 motors. The interface also receives feedback information from these motors and distributes it to the Zigbee network.

With reliable bi-directional communication, real-time motor position status updates, and incremental positioning from 0-100%, end users can more easily control their compatible smart home devices for better natural light management.

The Control4 to Digital Motor Interface is designed to fit smaller shade pockets for roller, roman, and woven shades and can be seamlessly integrated into the existing smart home system for enhanced privacy, comfort, and energy efficiency. This interface can also be the ideal solution for new residential construction as SDN motors are AC or DC powered, which is easiest to deploy at the same time as construction for built-in bi-directional communication in various torque and power options.

With Control4 certified drivers and a simple integration process, this interface increases convenience for an improved connected living experience.

“This new interface will improve the connectivity of Somfy’s line of digital motors to Control4 systems, while also providing a modern solution for today’s smart home integrations. The Control4 to Digital Motor Interface allows for easy installation and, because it is Control4 certified, dealers and integrators can find this product in Control4’s commissioning software, making the process of delivering a flexible solution even easier,” said Amit Parpani, Senior Product Manager, Somfy North America.

The post Somfy Releases a New Digital Motor Interface to Enrich the Smart Home Environment appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

The Somfy Clever Tilt Motor allows users to automate their existing 2-inch to 2.5-inch blinds and integrate them into their smart home. The kit includes seven adapters for mounting the drive motor to a blind’s tilt rod, three sets of adapters for securing the drive motor in a blind’s head rail, and a comprehensive instruction booklet. It’s a do-it-yourself motorization modification that’s easy to use.

The system is powered by two distinct battery packs. The first is a lithium-ion rechargeable battery pack. The second is an eight-AA battery reloadable battery tube.A handheld remote control is also available from Somfy. All of the above can be purchased as part of a kit for motorizing one to four shades.

Optionally, the Somfy Clever Tilt Motor can be used in conjunction with the Somfy TaHoma Gateway. You can control this device from your phone using the free Somfy TaHoma app, which also allows for automated blind management via scheduled scheduling, whether at home or away, as well as integration with voice assistants and a wide range of smart home platforms.

Many smart home systems can connect with the Somfy TaHoma gateway thanks to Somfy’s drivers, which include:

• Alarm.com 
• Philips Hue
• SmartThings
• Control 4
• Crestron Home
• Elan
• Savant
• URC
• RTI

Blinds equipped with the Somfy Clever Tilt Motor and linked to the Somfy TaHoma Gateway may also be operated via:

• Google Assistant
• Amazon Alexa
• IFTTT
  

The Somfy Clever Tilt Blind Motor is a high-quality device that is simple to set up. It comes with adapters for a variety of blinds.

The post Meet The Somfy Clever Tilt Motor, Which Can Turn Conventional Shades Into Smart Shades. appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.