Trend 1: Partial automation for more comfort
The long-awaited breakthrough of the fully networked “e-home” will not take place in 2007. “We believe one reason for this to be the high costs. Home owners are only prepared to make an investment if there is a clear benefit.” explains Rainer Kunz, Managing Director of elero. For this reason the trend is more towards partial automation. This was also confirmed by an online survey conducted by elero in 2006: Only about 22 per cent of the participants want a completely high-tech apartment – while an average of 38 per cent prefers to see technology used in just a few areas. It is ideal that sun protection, heating and light can already be cleverly controlled through a central system, therefore.

Closely associated with this is the topic of retrofitting, and in particular with radio products. Above all the 50+ generation is increasingly looking for possibilities to enhance the value of real estate and enjoy greater comfort in the future. Easy-to-install radio systems for the automation of roller shutters, venetian blinds and awnings are one possible solution where the additional expense – when redecorating for instance – is worthwhile.

Trend 2: A secure home
For many years now wide swathes of the population have been placing greater demands in terms of security – and in particular for the house or apartment. The roller shutter and sun protection sector can make a contribution here. Firstly, there is the possibility to network the alarm system with the roller shutter control. Secondly, intelligent timers such as the AstroTec from elero also help deter unwanted guests: It can be used to simulate the presence of the occupants as it opens roller shutters at sunrise, closing them again when the sun sets. Thanks to the daily variation in the opening/closing times the impression of an occupied apartment is a credible one.

Trend 3: Building automation contributes to climate protection
Closing shutters in good time with the aid of building automation is also the main argument when it comes to the possible contribution to climate protection by the roller shutter and sun protection sector – a topic that is currently at the focus of public interest. Clever building automation can help save energy in two ways: In the summer venetian blind or awning automation coupled with a sun sensor makes air conditioning superfluous. And in winter those who close roller shutters in good time ensure additional heat insulation.

Above and beyond these three trends the entire industry has to deal with an additional aspect. The price pressure remains as great as ever: Despite a recovering economy, customers are cost-conscious, and want more comfort of a high quality at an affordable price. Manufacturers such as elero are reacting to this with solutions which allow for swift, cost-favourable automation. The common objective: Stabilizing and fostering the positive development in the industry thanks to clever products.