WindowMaster (www.windowmaster.com), Europe’s largest provider of natural ventilation solutions, has launched its MotorLink™ automated window solution onto the open market in the UK. It provides a safe window control option for the facade and building controls industries.

The operation of buildings accounts for 40 per cent of all energy consumption in Europe. Because this energy is still generated primarily from coal-based sources it creates high CO2 emissions. Automated natural ventilation or hybrid systems with mechanical and natural ventilation can help reduce the carbon footprint of a building.

MotorLink™ is a state of the art digital data communication technology which provides improved control and functionality where automated windows and natural ventilation are part of a building management system (BMS).

WindowMaster MotorLink™ offers precise and accurate control. Because it operates within open standards its operation does not require expensive dedicated software systems. The versatile range of functionality of the MotorLink™ system also means that BMS suppliers and facade companies can deliver robust, flexible control solutions tailored to specific project requirements.

MotorLink™ features precise position control, three-speed actuator operation, synchronisation between multiple actuators on the same window and reduced risk of entrapment. Other features include a reversing function, which protects the weather seals around the window, fault indication and online set-up.

Millimetre-by-millimetre control enables an optimal indoor climate to be obtained whatever the weather or the season. Two-way communication between the MotorLinkTM window actuators and the MotorLink™ MotorController enables the BMS to accurately position the windows. The actual position of a window is logged and stored in a secure memory within the electronics of each MotorLink™ enabled actuator. Position information is therefore retained even in the event of power loss.

Full synchronisation means that up to four actuators on one window can work together within a tolerance of less than two millimetres. The system enables the actuators to communicate with one another so that they are always working at the same speed to avoid damage to the window.

Reversing and pressure safety functions within the MotorLink™ system reduce pressure on the window gaskets, prolonging the life span of the seals and the air tightness of the windows. In addition, actuators equipped with MotorLink™ technology can be programmed to stop and reverse if an object is encountered when the window is closing.

Richard Arnott, UK and Ireland market manager for WindowMaster, said: “Natural ventilation and smoke ventilation has moved to the forefront of building design in recent years with the increasing focus on energy consumption and sustainability. As a result, demand for automated and intelligent facades has grown.

“WindowMaster has used its years of experience to make the programming and operation of automated natural ventilation and smoke ventilation systems as easy as possible. The new MotorLink™ range of MotorControllers is very versatile and interfaces with building management systems using open bus communication standards including KNX, LON, Bacnet and Modbus.

“The MotorControllers can operate four or eight motorlines and work in conjunction with WindowMaster’s range of actuators. These can be specified to take into account the size and type of window, application requirements, aesthetic requirements and whether they are being used for comfort ventilation or smoke ventilation.”

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