Iris Window Coverings is a recognized leader in the field of Automation and has been involved in automating window coverings in the Pacific Northwest for over 20 years.
A general definition of Automation is the use of a control system or systems to manage various industrial processes. In the case of window coverings, this refers to the operation of motorized window coverings. In commercial and industrial applications this entails linking the window coverings with the lighting controls and HVAC controls, so that the window coverings are automatically opened or closed as the buildings interior environment requires. There are, of course, manual overrides to this automatic control. There are many benefits to automating a commercial office space, chief among them is the reduction in energy costs.
Home Automation specializes in the specific automation requirements of private homes. While many of the systems and techniques utilized in commercial automation are also used in home automation (such as light and climate control, security and surveillance systems), there are some differences. There are many additional functions that can be integrated into a home automation system, such as control of a multi-media home entertainment system, automatic plant watering, or automatic pet feeding. Home automation also usually has a more user friendly control interface than does the commercial variety.
Iris Window Coverings is proud to have a UL listed and approved facility that manufacturers control boxes for use in automated projects and is able to accomplish almost any automation request.
When constructing a new building, whether commercial, industrial or residential and home automation is being considered, we recommend that electrical and control wires be installed prior to the interior walls being installed. This is usually part of the electrical design and is installed by the electrician. These wires run through a controller, which will then control any accessory systems that are being included in the building. Having the building pre-wired then makes it a simple task to add any motorized systems that may be desired while maintaining the uncluttered look that hidden wiring provides.
