Paul Atkinson, market manager at Somfy, outlines why communication is the key to a successful automation project The world we live in now is a very different place from what it was not too long ago – and all the change is driven by technology.

At work we rely on computers, either standalone or linked by a network, and become completely disorientated when there’s a power cut. This is generally due to panic arising from the combined problem of being severed from the PC and unable to boil the kettle for a cuppa!

The technological advances taking place are not just limited to hardware; they also extend to our communication methods. The options we now have at our disposal for personal communication number many – text, fax, email, mobile, website, intranet, video conferencing… and the list goes on. This is also the case with hardware devices that can be paired together in order to communicate with one another – the options are many, which can lead to confusion and a mismatch between devices.

The automation project…
Whether in the residential or commercial sphere, there is a rising demand for motorised or automated interior blinds that must knit together with the host control unit and operate seamlessly in tandem with additional ancillary devices. Whether it’s a cinema room as part of a smart home project or a conference room in a hotel, one central control system tends to be in place and it is this device that determines the communication method.

Unfortunately, not all central control devices talk the same language and in the same way that we can communicate with one another in a variety of different ways, the options for hardware communication vary. For the project to flow smoothly and successfully, it is vital that the communication protocol is identified and understood.

Which communication method?
The majority of all problems in communications start with misunderstandings which develop as a result of differing viewpoints and conditioning. Remember the different ways we can communicate? Well, there are many more when it comes to hardware devices talking to each other – mains signal, contact closure signal, infrared, radio, RS232, RS485, KNX… you get the picture. There’s quite a few and if you don’t have the solution that can talk the same language, you’re either in trouble or don’t stand a chance of securing the project in the first place.

Somfy has the solution
At Somfy we can help you win business and provide advice and guidance to ensure your project is completed in a professional and profitable manner. Our range of motors and controls for automated interior blinds projects are second to none, with a variety of products specifically designed to integrate with differing communications protocols based on the host control system. We have motors in our range that can connect directly with the host system and be triggered by a variety of signal options, such as contact closure or RS485.

This helps you because you are not restricted by limited options relating to the way in which the motorised blind is controlled, which could lead to problems on site or missing out as a candidate for the job in the first place. Once you confirm the communication platform from the host control system, contact us and we can work with you to identify the best solution based on the project requirements.

We’ll even confirm the host system communication platform for you! Our technical team is more than happy to discuss the technical aspect directly with the contact responsible for the host control system, taking the complication away from you. We’ll confirm the communication method, specify the Somfy products required and send you the details to work up the project quotation.

What is RS485?
RS485 is becoming a more widely used communication platform for automation projects. The reason is that it is an ‘open platform’ system and many different manufacturers use the RS485 protocol as the basis to communicate with other devices – a ‘general’ language in other words. This allows manufacturers to develop RS485 products which can talk to each other. As it is software-based, a systems integrator is usually responsible for integrating all the automation products including the blinds and making sure that they function based on the client’s specification.

Somfy currently has two RS485 products available for automation projects: Sonesse 30 RS485 and the RS485 RTS Transmitter. The Sonesse 30 RS485 quiet motor is ideal for roller blind projects and the added functionality of RS485 provides 16 intermediate positions and motor position feedback. On the control side, the RS485 RTS Transmitter has 16 RTS radio channels that can be controlled by RS485 signalling, enabling control of up to 16 Somfy RTS-controlled applications. It also has five dry contact closure inputs allowing additional control of up to five Somfy RTS-controlled applications by contact closure signalling. The radio range is the same as other Somfy RTS products – 200m in free space or 20m through two concrete walls.

Profitable simplicity
Automation can be seen as complicated – indeed for many it is a new world that has many attractions but also challenges. At Somfy we are dedicated to helping you open up new profitable business opportunities through automation; as an industry we must seize the chance to open up an AV-led market and offer blinds as part of the home automation package. We have the products, the connections and the knowhow – let’s work together!

• Somfy