Glossary - Systems & Services
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Electric Operation
Almost all types of blinds and shutters can be electrically operated. For venetian blinds, the motors are located within the headrail section; for roller blinds and smaller shutters, the motors are tubular and fit within the roller; on vertical blinds, the motor is mounted on the back of the track. Non-retractable rooflight blinds have the motors mounted on one of the racks above the slats. For larger shutters, the motor is mounted at the end of the roller and drives to the roller through gears. This type of externally fitted motor, which is usually 3-phase, is also used for folding and commercial up-and-over doors.
Small 12v motors are also available for small blinds. As they are normally battery operated, a qualified electrician is not required for the wiring.
Generally, installers and fitters of blinds and shutters will not undertake mains wiring as part of their contract, as this must be carried out by a qualified electrician to P1 standards. Normally the site electrician or an electrician familiar with the clientĖs building does this work. Thus electrical items are usually supplied only.
The blind fitter is responsible for final testing and commissioning and setting the motor operating limits. Usually the blinds are installed and tested from an independent power source before handing over to the contractor.
Motors are normally supplied with a 1 metre length of flex (or flying lead) so it is necessary for a junction box or plug connection to be located within 1 metre of the end of the blind. Where more than one blind operates from a single switch, relays must be used and they can also serve as junction boxes. Most motors are single phase using normal 3-core mains supply cable to the switch, but the cable from the switch to the motor is 4-core. There are 2 wires for supply (one for raise and one for lower) a neutral and an earth. The load requirement is normally not more than an amp for each motor.
Control Systems
An extensive range of standard control systems is available with custom design for more complex requirements. Control systems can be made to perform virtually any sequence of functions. It is up to the specifier to choose the system best suited to the job in hand. Control systems offer the designer uniformity and building temperature control that can make significant savings in air conditioning running costs.
Types and operation
Solar Control
Opens and closes the blinds and set to two pre-determined lux (light) levels. The blinds are lowered when the higher level is reached and raised after a timed interval if the light drops to the lower level.
Wind Control
Retracts external blinds if the wind speed exceeds a pre-set level.
Timer Control
A daily or weekly timer to operate the blinds at preset times. It is usually used to extend the blinds in the morning and retract them at night. Where blinds or shutters are used for insulation it can be used to lower them at night for heat retention.
Light level control
For non-retractable blinds has three-lux level control and allows the slats to adjust to maintain light levels within a selected bandwidth.
Master or Building Control
Allows override of the system from one central point with the option of an interface with the fire alarm system to retract the blinds.
Individual control
Allows override of the automatic system by a switch local to each blind.
Infra-red control
Operation by means of an infra-red transmitter that activates the sensor that is normally mounted on the wall beside the blind.
Radio remote control
Control by a hand held transmitter is usually used for shutters or garage doors. It is suited when direct line of sight to the sensor is not possible.
Contract Cleaning & Maintenance
Most manufacturers offer an after sales maintenance service either directly or through local agents. For internal horizontal and vertical blinds regular cleaning contracts are available. Blinds are normally cleaned on an annual basis and are usually removed from site and cleaned in an ultrasonic tank. The ultrasonic waves implode the dirt particles and the cleaning agent removes them. When in the works, the components are tested for wear and are lubricated before being returned. Regular maintenance is as important for blinds and shutters as any other item of equipment.