This may be stretching it a bit perhaps, however -
Is it possible to control window sliding shutters (or blinds) using M1 only (i.e. without Clipsal, etc)?
Cheers.
This may be stretching it a bit perhaps, however -
Is it possible to control window sliding shutters (or blinds) using M1 only (i.e. without Clipsal, etc)?
Cheers.
I don't have any knowledge of the M-1, but I do know a fair amount about motorized blinds, shutters, and the like as we are a dealer that specializes in motorized and remote control window covering products, including black out for home theaters.
You haven't provided near enough information to obtain anywhere near a good answer.
What type and brand blinds and shutters do you have?
What is the voltage of the motors?
What sort of control do the motors have now?
What do the controls want to see in terms of control from your M-1? There is RF, IR, and almost always momentary switch contact control. Not to mention RS-232.
Several good suggestions have already been made. The best approach is to purchase products already motorized, though some retrofitting can be done. Then, all you have to worry about is hitting them with the right control choice.
I might mention that there are products with all voltages, 12v, 24v. and 110v, and controls for each are available.
Believe me, some of the decorators we work with can come up with some impossible issues for us to solve, but most are solvable if the budget doesn't run out too soon.
Yes, the M1 can do it instead of using Clipsal.
There is a BUT though
The M1 relay boards are not rated for 240VAC, so if you are using 240VAC blind motors and you want to use the M1, then you will need cheap follower relays that are rated for 240VAC. This will allow you to use what ever voltage you want on the M1 relays (12V, 24V, 110V).
If you are switching the motors directly (i.e. no controller), then you need to have interlocking. hardware interlocking is much better than software. Fortunately, the M1 relays are change over and this can be done very easily.
There is also an issue of time delay between changing direction. Motors do not like to be switch back and forward instantly, there should be a 0.5sec delay to prevent damage.
If you want to use the M1, look for a motor that uses a "controller" of sorts that will take care of all of this for you. This may be built in or it may be separate.
Also, since you mentioned Clipsal, take a look at the C-Bus forums and search on blind control. You will find a wealth of information (diagrams on hardware interlocking with CO relays etc.) there on best practices - some of it from the blind industry itself.
Mick
Thanks for the encouragement, Bryan.
The HAL/Cinemar system can open and close relays, which is what I assume is meant by dry contacts.
Is there an interface with the Lutron control system? Can HAL/Cinemar learn the commands and be used instead?
bob
cezar, came across an Australian company that does motorized shutters.
http://www.shuttersrus.com.au/products/motor/index.php