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Motif consumer press | |
Awnings need to be shielded from too much wind. Remedy is at hand in the form of the Eolis 3D WireFree wind sensor from Somfy. This wind sensor measures the vibrations of the sun protection system and automatically gives the command to retract by radio communication in case of wind alarm. The reliability of the system itself has been comprehensively tested in a wind tunnel. The battery-operated sensing device is small and unobtrusive. With it, even existing equipment can be upgraded without any difficulty.
Germans' appetite for spending time outdoors is as strong as ever. From Easter right through to Indian summer - and sometimes even beyond - young and old alike enjoy the outdoor season. Those who can do so put a table and chairs on their balcony or terrace. However, in order to protect oneself from too much sun, investing in an awning is simply a must. Its shade not only makes summer temperatures tolerable, it also prevents headaches, sunburn and fading to furniture and textiles. The greatest enemy to an awning, however, is the wind. Wind can even destroy the fabric and structure.
To prevent damage to the valuable sun protection system, a wind control system should be installed by way of precaution. An unobtrusive and simple solution for folding-arm awnings is offered by the Eolis 3D WireFree wind sensor from Somfy. The functionality of the sensing device is as simple as it is brilliant: The wind speed is not measured beside the awning as would usually be the case. Instead, an electronic acceleration sensor measures the vibrations of the extended awning in all three dimensions. If the wind vibrates the fabric to an excessive degree, the sensor automatically sends the motor the command to retract by radio communication. The load values of the awning in real terms have been comprehensively measured in a wind tunnel, and the reliable operation of the sensor has been tested.
The highlight: The installation and activation of the wind sensing device is extremely simple. Thanks to its small size, it can be secured to the front profile of the awning at a place of one's choosing and synchronised with the drive mechanism. The system does not require any maintenance, and all set values are retained after a battery change, which itself is as easy as can be. The sensor is available in three colours so that it integrates inconspicuously into the structure. It cannot be seen at all from the front. Because communication between the sensing unit and the motor occurs via radio communication, the laying of control lines is not required. It is for this reason that even existing motorised awnings can be fitted with the innovative wind control system without any difficulty. If a high-quality RTS motor from Somfy is installed, upgrading to an external RTS receiver is not required.
With its solar-powered, wireless sun sensor Sunis WireFree RTS, the manufacturer offers a solution which ensures that the awning automatically extends when the sun is shining. This prevents the outdoor area from heating up in the first place. In order to prevent frequent extension and retraction of the awning during sunny and windy days, the Eolis 3D WireFree possesses an anti-yoyo function. After a wind alarm, automatic sun protection is disabled for up to one hour. This represents an investment in technology which extends the service life of the awning to a considerable extent.
Picture caption:
More protection for awnings: Wind damage to the fabric and structure can be
prevented with the Eolis 3D WireFree wind protection system from Somfy. The
small sensor, which reliably protects the sun protection system, can be installed
in such a way that it is hardly noticeable at all. Innovative technology: The
battery-operated sensing device measures the vibrations of the awning. In case
of danger, it gives the command to retract. The awning is thus protected, ensuring
it can give pleasure to the user for years to come.
Photo: Somfy GmbH