DIY smart curtains. Homemade curtain drive Automatic opening of curtains with your own hands diagram

The desire to furnish a house with your own hands is not always associated with the need to save money on the work of a specialist or finished products. Craftsmen are driven by the desire to surpass professionals. And they often succeed, even in such difficult cases as self-production electric drive for roller blinds. new test key

Why do you need an electric drive?

Installation of automatic blinds is recommended in large buildings, residential or non-residential buildings. This is necessary so as not to waste time adjusting the entire system. By programming the device, you can control all windows. In this case, each individual window is adjusted independently of the others.
Automatic models have one more thing undeniable advantage. The wear and tear of the structure occurs much slower, since the same force is always expended during adjustment. Electric roller blinds can cost significantly more. In addition, it is necessary to pay for the work of a specialist who will install them if the buyer cannot do it himself.

Kinds

There are 2 ways to control automatic roller blinds:

Remote. The curtains are controlled using a specially programmed remote control. You can set a timer on the device, which will allow the remote control to issue commands at a certain time. This system works on the same principle as an alarm clock;
Stationary. To activate such a mechanism, you need to press a button that is mounted next to the window.

The most expensive models of blinds are equipped with photocells. They are sensitive to natural or artificial lighting, rising and falling at the right moment. There is a misconception that automatic curtains create too much noise when operating. In fact, the presence of noise can only indicate poor quality of installation. If the structure is installed correctly, the movement of the curtains will not bother you.

There are other classifications for motorized blinds, for example, according to the installation location:

Ventilation. They are installed in the ventilation system. Such curtains are often used in industrial enterprises to protect the premises from extraneous noise or unpleasant odors;
For generators. Necessary to protect the generator from dirt and dust. Despite its name, this type of curtain is actively used in everyday life. There are built-in and overhead models. This design is necessary where particularly high demands are placed on safety;
External. The main function is to protect premises from entry by unauthorized persons, that is, burglary. In addition, the model protects from low temperatures and direct sunlight.

When making blinds at home, you can focus on the types of electrically driven roller blinds given above. However, we should not forget that for outdoor use it is advisable to purchase ready-made designs. Our own roller blinds are suitable for indoor use only.

Do you need to be a professional?

Construct automatic system Not only a specialist with the appropriate education can do it with his own hands. The assembly and installation technique is much simpler than it seems. Master classes presented on thematic resources and books on construction topics indicate step-by-step actions. However, certain skills are still necessary. If you have never had to do renovation work, you should contact a specialist. This will avoid unpleasant consequences associated with incorrect installation and unnecessary costs.

Curtain material

In most cases, fabric is chosen to make blinds high density. However, other materials can also be used.

If the interior of the room allows, non-working floppy disks or CDs will be used to make curtains. This idea is suitable for a teenager’s room, where excessive severity would look inappropriate. In an interior that suggests informality, you can use calendar cards or postcards. Even strips of leather may work.

First stage of work

If the decision to create a structure with your own hands has already been made, first of all, you need to decide on the size of future curtains. To do this, measure the window frame, since the length of the future product must match its parameters. Curtains can be large. But the difference usually does not exceed 12 cm. The width of the blinds must match the width of the frame. About 2 cm should be left for attacks.

When cutting the material, you need to prepare 2 patterns, since one of them will become the wrong side, and the other the front side. The patterns are folded right sides inward and sewn together. The resulting workpiece is turned inside out. The remaining hole in the bag must be sewn up. If desired, you can choose different materials for each of the parties. But according to experts, both blanks should be made of the same material.

There is no need to make curtains yourself. You can upgrade ready-made ones that include a plastic rod in the mechanism.

Second stage of work

At the next stage, the blinds need to be attached to wooden beam. The width of the curtains should be 1 cm greater than the length of the beam. Curtain material should be laid out with the wrong side up. At the top of the workpiece you need to make an indent of at least 5 cm. After which the pre-prepared timber is laid. The material is tightly attached to it. You can use a stapler to secure it. The rail should pull the curtain. To make this possible, you need to make a small pocket. The material must be wrapped 3 cm. A beam is threaded into the resulting pocket.

Third stage of work

An electric drive can be bought in a store. However, some prefer to create it themselves. To assemble it yourself, you will need a bit extension and an electric screwdriver. The last element is powered by three batteries. First you need to disconnect the battery compartment. The power cables need extension. They are increased by 2 or 2.5 m. The gearbox and electric motor should be modified. The need for this arises due to the fact that the electric drive will be installed in a limited space. The essence of the modification is to reduce the body size.

The fourth stage of work

The drive is connected to the blinds. The bit fixation extension is provided in a special gland. It is necessary to remove the standard plug. The first element is installed at the end of the winding body. You need to make sure that the seal at the end is secured tightly enough.

A special bracket must be attached to the frame, on which the device will be secured. For initial fixation of the electric drive to the blinds, ties are required. Subsequently, the elements used for fastening must be replaced with brackets. Installation is carried out in a horizontal position after the engine is mounted in its place. There is a reversing switch on the power supply. With its help, the operation of the entire finished structure is controlled.

The electric drive can be presented in the form of a motor with a gearbox. To select the right model, you should take into account the shaft rotation force and speed. You need to purchase a unit with a power of at least 12 W. The shaft rotation speed, according to experts, should exceed 15 revolutions per minute.

Next, the engine is installed in the plastic box. Then you need to run the cable. The next step is to press the buttons, which completes the process of making electric curtains. Add finished design possible using automation and stationary power supply. Models that include such elements can move right/left if it is a vertical model, or up/down if it is a horizontal model.

Professionals advise purchasing an Arduino module. Experts highly value this device. With its help, not only blinds can be controlled, but also gates, heaters and some other devices and devices. You can regulate the operation of the device using the module after a special program has been written for it. This is especially necessary in cases where the system will be installed on 2 or more windows. By lightly pressing the buttons, you can set the required closing or opening speed, raise the curtains completely or partially, and also carry out other necessary manipulations. The Arduino module allows you to program additional functions, including the security mode. This function is necessary in order to promptly notify that certain malfunctions have occurred in the operation of the module;

Give yourself the opportunity to control the design of the blinds manually. No matter how high-quality the electric drive mechanism is, sooner or later a malfunction may occur. Failures are possible in which a new drive will have to be installed. Manual control allows, in case of imbalance, to synchronize the operation of the structure. The absence of dependence on the electric drive allows you to use the curtains while the motor is disconnected for replacement or repair;
Protect the mechanical part of the structure from dust and moisture that may enter the room through the window. In the kitchen, the electric drive is exposed to the adverse effects of soot and steam that are released during cooking. The mechanism will fail sooner or later. However, the period of its operation can be significantly extended;
curtains yourself
Since the electric drive will require repair in any case, do not glue together the plastic boxes that contain the moving elements. To fasten them together, use staples. They can be removed if necessary.

Offer curtains yourself for the test

Electric roller blinds are another step towards coziness and comfort in your home. By taking care of their installation, you get the opportunity not to waste time adjusting the mechanism. In order to make and install curtains yourself, it is not necessary to have a technical education; a new key for the test. Just be careful and be patient.

Automatic sun control roller blinds are often installed in residential areas. They protect the room well from sunlight and prying eyes, create an air cushion that traps cold air, take up minimal space, and automation allows you to conveniently control the structure.

Automatic roller blinds are very easy to use. The article will tell you what types exist, features of automatic control and methods of installing structures.

After installation of electric roller curtains, the following is provided:

The roller shutter can be controlled only by pressing a button placed in a block attached to the wall or on the control panel;
The ability to simultaneously control several curtain systems installed in the same room;
Using a timer. This allows you to configure roller blinds to protect the room from overheating, from large quantity sun rays;
Adjusting lighting and saving energy when the room is brightly illuminated by street lamps.

There is no fundamental difference between the design of a simple roller blind and one with an electric drive. Electric drive design and appearance does not violate the product.

Features and types of automatic roller blinds

Installation roller blinds can be carried out in small rooms and in spacious rooms, when installing several systems in them, without wasting time on manually adjusting each one separately. By programming the device, you can control all the curtains on the windows at once or each one separately.

In addition, the advantages of electric drive models can be:

Controlling the blade with constant force reduces wear on the entire structure;
Budget price for installing the system, especially when it is done independently;
Sometimes this is the only possible option, in which the sun filters can be controlled when installing them in hard to reach places: on the ceiling or attic windows;
Frequent manual control of systems quickly tires a person, due to the large mass of roller blinds installed on large windows. It is better to immediately purchase a design with an electric drive;
A system with small cassettes has been specially developed for plastic tilt-and-turn windows;
The guide elements and the frame of the structure have a protective paint coating or are made of laminated aluminum;
There are no control circuits or other unnecessary parts;
Easy installation, no need to drill holes in frames;
The built-in electric motor is powered by a 12V lithium battery;
To fully charge the battery from a 220V network, 5-6 hours are enough;
Using a modern multi-channel control panel.

Tip: How to adjust roller blinds using the control panel must be thought out in advance. It is easier to install a centralized system right away than to add the necessary functions later. This may increase the risk of technical system failures.

Roller blind mechanisms

When choosing the best roller blinds for your bedroom, you need to consider not only how they will look on the window and protect from the sun’s rays, but also how they are attached.

The method of fastening is determined taking into account the size of the window opening. Automatic or manual roller blinds are relatively small in size and easy to use; they use carefully thought-out mechanisms.

How to open and close roller blinds (description of design control methods) is shown in the table:

Control method	Peculiarities
	An aluminum mini-cassette is inserted inside the guide. The device has a spring mechanism for roller blinds. It retracts or unwinds the canvas, and is mounted on an inclined surface. The mini-cassette can be attached with a special adhesive tape that does not leave marks.
	Although externally impressive, spring mechanics are not very reliable, and the guarantee for it is given only for a certain time. The springs of the structure, which can be reached by children, fail especially quickly. In order for the curtain to obtain the required position, it moves when the canvas is held by the lower edge. Installation of roller blinds with spring control can be carried out on the ceiling, tilt-and-turn or attic window. In this case, the angle at which it is located relative to the floor surface does not play any role. Important! Due to the presence of a ball device in the drum, it is necessary to pull out and lift the panel very carefully. A very large force can prematurely damage a sensitive device.
	A full-length classic cassette differs from a mini one in that when rolled up, the curtain goes completely inside, and when unrolled, it covers the entire window opening, not just the glass. The plastic chain allows for more precise blade control. It is quite reliable and simple design to control curtains on any window.
	The chain mechanism is much more practical than others. In this case, the fabric is wound onto a bobbin, which is connected to a drum. A plastic chain and a retainer pass through its grooves. When the chain moves to the side, the rotation of the drum lowers the fabric or raises it. This is an easy to use device. The disadvantage of this option is the low reliability of the plastic elements: the latch breaks quite quickly, and when heated in the sun, the material dries out, which can lead to a broken chain. But it’s not particularly difficult to purchase new spare parts for roller blinds.
Automated
	In this case, the button for controlling the canvas is installed next to the window, as can be seen in the photo.
	To control the curtains, a specially programmed remote control is used. In this case, the device can be equipped with a timer, which will allow you to control the roller shutters at a specific time, like an alarm clock.

Fixation

Each type of mechanism is designed to wind or unwind the fabric and fix it in the desired position. In this case, the rotation axes can be attached to the top, bottom of the window, or move simultaneously with the roll, the outer edge of which is fixed.

If you want to ensure smooth movement and good fit to the window when ventilating the room, guides or magnets for roller blinds are used. Flat guides can prevent the bottom bar from deviating from the desired path.

The disadvantage of this solution is that they can only be used on flat areas. If the surface is not too smooth, U-shaped guides with increased profile rigidity are installed. In this case, the ends of the fabric will be closed hermetically, letting in a minimum of light.

Fixation of the lower slats with magnets in the open state is a modern design of roller blinds. When they are partially deployed, the fabric is held by fishing lines located vertically behind the fabric. If the roller blinds are divided into two rolls, a gap between them can be left if necessary.

Operating principle of electric roller blinds

In automatic blinds, all functions are performed by a specially mounted motor. With its help, the pipe is rotated onto which the product web is wound.

Tip: Before installing the structure, you should carefully determine the weight of the fabric used. If the fabric is heavy enough and is wound around a small pipe diameter, deformation of its walls may occur. In this case, disruptions to the operation of the entire system will occur.

Models of roller blinds come with the motor installed on the right or left of the roll, this will eliminate some technical risks. When you press the control button, the motor turns on. This provokes the curtain to wrap around the pipe, or the curtain to lower.

Tip: If there is a lot of noise during operation, this indicates poor quality installation. In this case, the structure should be dismantled and reassembled correctly. After this, the system will work quietly and will not disturb the owner of the premises.

Installation of automatic roller blinds

The video presented in this article shows how to assemble a roller blind with all the details. This will help to avoid mistakes that may occur due to incorrect installation, and reduce the cost of electric roller blinds.

For installation of ready-made models with electric drive, it is developed special instructions. It shows the order of how to assemble a roller blind.

To do this you need:

The blinds are carefully unpacked. At the same time, carefully, so as not to damage the product, cut the packaging sleeve;
The product with brackets for its fastening is applied to the installation site;
The points for fixing the brackets are marked;
On the electric drive side, a hole is drilled for the first bracket;
If necessary, dowels are inserted to secure the bracket with screws;
The upper pipe is installed in the bracket on the side where the electric drive is located, and the element is aligned in the horizontal plane;
A second bracket is installed in the pipe and a place for its attachment is marked. In this case, it is necessary to ensure a tight fit of the part to the pipe;
The pipe is removed;
Holes are drilled to install the second bracket, located on the side of the sleeve; if necessary, dowels are inserted;
The upper part of the bracket is not fully screwed with one screw;
The top tube with the electric drive side is inserted into the first bracket;
A sleeve is inserted into another bracket from the opposite end of the pipe, turning it slightly relative to the pipe;
The bottom part of the bracket is screwed on with a screw.

In this sequence, motorized roller blinds are installed.

Making roller blinds yourself

The procedure for doing the work yourself is as follows:

The dimensions of future products are calculated and parts blanks are made. For this:

Measurements are taken of the window frame - the length of future curtains should correspond to its dimensions. In this case, the canvases can be no more than 120 mm longer;
The width of the blinds must match the width of the frame. And 20 mm is needed for allowances;
The material is cut out on two patterns: one of them will become the front side; and the reverse side is different;
The patterns are folded right sides inward and sewn together. The workpiece is turned inside out. The remaining holes in the bag are sewn up.

Blinds are attached to a wooden beam. Their width is chosen 10 mm greater than the length of the beam. Further:

The curtain material is laid out wrong side up;
An indent of at least 50 mm is made at the top of the canvas;
Pre-prepared timber is laid;
The material is tightly attached to the beam with a stapler;
It is necessary to ensure that the curtain is tensioned by the rail. To do this, a small pocket is made: the material is wrapped 30 mm and a beam is threaded into the resulting cavity.

The mechanism for roller blinds can be purchased ready-made or assembled independently. To do this, you need to purchase components for roller blinds: an extension cord for bits, an electric screwdriver, powered by three batteries. Then:

The battery compartment is disconnected;
Electrical wires are extended by 2.5 meters;
If necessary, the mechanism body is reduced to install a gearbox and electric motor.

The drive is connected to the blinds. To do this, you need to remove the standard plug at the end of the winding housing and install the oil seal quite tightly.
To fix the device, a special bracket is attached to the frame. The roller blind is installed after installing the motor, in a horizontal position. To control the operation of the assembled structure, a reversing switch is mounted on the power supply.

Tip: When combining a motor and gearbox, in order to select the required model, you should take into account the shaft rotation speed, it should be more than 15 rpm, and the power should be at least 12 W.

The roller blind mechanism is mounted in a plastic box.
The cable is being laid.
Buttons are located to control the system.

How to assemble roller blinds, step-by-step instructions for the entire process are shown in detail in the video.

Some useful tips when using automatic roller blinds

Having chosen automatic roller blinds and installing them with an electric drive, you should follow the recommendations of experts:

Buy an Arduino module. A special program installed on the device allows you to regulate the operation of the module. This is especially convenient when arranging systems with several windows. By lightly pressing the button, you can set the required speed for raising or lowering the curtains partially or completely, and perform other necessary manipulations. Several additional functions can be programmed into the Arduino module. One of them is a security mode that promptly notifies about failures in the module;
Save function for manual control of roller blinds. If the balance is disturbed, this will allow you to synchronize the operation of the control system or use the curtains when disconnecting the motor in order to replace or repair it;
It is necessary to protect the mechanical part of the products from moisture and dust falling on the windows, or steam and soot for curtains in the kitchen;
You cannot glue hard plastic boxes where moving elements are located, due to the need to repair the electric drive after long-term operation. To fasten the parts together, staples should be used, which can be easily removed if necessary.

An automatic roller blind is a step towards coziness and comfort in any home. When installing an electric drive, significantly less energy and effort is expended than when opening or closing the curtains by hand.

In this article I will talk about the design of an automatic curtain drive installed on my balcony. There we grow flowers that are harmed by direct sunlight. In addition, in the summer, if the balcony windows are closed, with direct sunlight The air on the balcony quickly overheats. However, when there is no direct light, it is advisable to open the curtains - the shadow also does not contribute to the growth of flowers. Therefore, to maintain acceptable illumination on the balcony, I automated the operation of the curtains.

Mechanics

The curtains were originally already on the balcony. There are two of them, both suspended on a metal cable stretched under the ceiling from one wall of the balcony to the other. It is clear that you need to move both curtains at once, and due to the friction of the curtains on the cable (it is quite rough), the required force must be quite large. In addition, sometimes there may be obstacles in the path of the curtains, for example, a slightly open balcony window, which further increases the strength requirements.
Thus, the drive must be sufficiently powerful and reliable - on the balcony it often happens high humidity, quite a large temperature difference between winter and summer is possible. Therefore, I based the drive on a car window lift drive. It has sufficient power, is capable of producing high torque (it has a built-in worm gear) and is very reliable.

The mechanical diagram of the drive is shown below:

More details about the design. A plastic roller with a groove is attached to the window lift drive shaft (on the left in the diagram), on which a turn of rope is wound. The drive is mounted on one of the walls of the balcony. A similar roller is attached to the opposite wall, through which a rope is also thrown.
After this, the rope is tensioned so that the friction of the rope on the drive roller is enough to move the curtains. The opposite ends of each curtain are attached to a rope so that when the motor rotates, the curtain moves or moves apart.

To test the operation of the drive, I made a smaller model of it. The window lift drive and independent roller were mounted on a board, a rope was pulled between them, after which it was possible to check the operation of the electronics and measure the force developed by the drive.

Photo of the drive itself on the layout:

As can be seen from the photo, a fairly large thin plate is attached to the window lift drive (I used textolite). A metal corner with two holes is attached to it, through which a rope is passed. It is needed so that the turn of the rope on the roller does not get tangled; for this purpose, the holes in the corner are made on different heights relative to the plate.
To the right of the corner are limit switches needed to stop the curtains in their extreme positions. In order to indicate these positions, two plastic straws(only one of them is visible in the photo next to the bottom switch). The tubes are arranged so that when the curtain reaches its extreme position, one of them presses the switch, and for reliable pressing, a metal plate is attached next to each of the switches, which presses the tube to the switch.
Three metal posts attached to the plate are needed to secure the drive cover.
Both rope rollers are made from furniture wheels. Using a drill and a file, you need to make a groove in each of them; two turns of rope should fit in the groove of the drive roller. The drive roller is attached to the shaft by tension, and the hole in it had to be bored out to a square one, since the drive shaft is square.
The drive is attached to the balcony wall using suitable furniture corners (one of them is visible in the photo on the left). There are enough mounting holes in the window lift drive, so there are no problems with fastening.

View of the drive already attached to the wall and covered with a lid:

In order to tension the rope, a special screw with a nut is used, to which the ends of the rope are attached:

The end of one of the curtains is also attached to it.

Electronics

All my electronics are divided into two parts - power and control. The main task of the power section is to provide power to the drive motor. The power window drive can draw very high current. To reduce this current, I reduced the drive supply voltage to 5 volts, but even so, the maximum current consumed by the motor can reach up to 3A. To provide such a current, I used a power supply from the printer, capable of delivering a voltage of about 30V and a current of up to 0.7A, as well as DC-DC converter up to 5V. Due to the reduction DC-DC voltage quite capable of delivering the required current.
Motor power control is carried out using a powerful relay designed to change the polarity of the signal, and a MOSFET that controls the voltage supply to the motor. Thanks to the use of MOSFETs, it is possible to control the rotation speed of the motor, but this feature is not currently used.
Also installed on the power section are stabilizers designed to power the control electronics and the engine power control circuit. The stabilizers are powered from a lower voltage circuit of the power supply; the voltage there does not exceed 12V.

The control electronics are represented by the STM8S microcontroller. The controller performs quite a lot of functions - measuring illumination, making a decision about starting the drive, monitoring the position of the curtains using limit switches, controlling the power supply of the drive, controlling the drive in manual mode - according to commands from the remote control. In addition, a radio module based on NRF24L01 and a 1-Wire bus are connected to the controller, through which three temperature sensors are connected. Using the radio module, you can control the drive and read temperature values at different points on the balcony and on the street, however, at the moment the second radio module is connected only to the breadboard, so I will not consider this functionality further.

The printer power supply used has an input for switching it to Stand-by state. I also use it, which reduces the energy consumption of the structure. The program takes into account that the power supply switches to operating mode with a certain delay, and after 30 seconds of inactivity of the drive, the power supply again switches to Stand-by mode.

Indication of drive operation using a three-color LED (only blue and red diodes are used). Blue lights up when voltage is applied to the motor, red starts flashing periodically if there are errors in the drive operation. The number of flashes allows you to determine the error number.
For audible signaling of some events (for example, when a command is given to close curtains that are already closed), the drive motor itself is used. A PWM signal with a small duty cycle is supplied to it, as a result of which the engine beeps quite loudly.

A photoresistor attached to the window with a suction cup is used as a light sensor. Since the suction cup may fall off the window, there is a small button next to the photoresistor. While the suction cup is held on the window, the button is pressed against the window. If the suction cup falls off, the automatic operation of the drive stops and the red diode begins to flash. If the sensor is not connected to the connector, this is also detected by the controller.
Type of light sensor:

Since the illumination of the sensor can change sharply - due to various flashes on the street, partly cloudy weather - the data from the sensor has to be filtered. I have implemented the following processing algorithm: data from the sensor is digitized at a frequency of 10 Hz and written to an array. Once a second, the value of this array is averaged (primarily this is needed to filter out noise and flashes). Next, the resulting values are added to another array of 600 elements; after reaching the end of the array, recording begins from the beginning. Also, this array is analyzed every second - the controller calculates what percentage of the array elements is less than a certain threshold (with increasing illumination, the voltage at the output of the photosensor drops). If the values of more than 66% of the elements are less than a given threshold, then it is considered that the illumination is high enough and the curtains can be closed. In this way, periodic changes in illumination are filtered. At the same time, a limitation is also imposed on the operating frequency of the drive - in automatic mode, the motor turns on no more than once every ten minutes.

As I mentioned above, it is possible to control the curtains from the remote control. Using the remote control, you can fully open and close the curtains, partially open them, and start the drive based on the instantaneous illumination value. When controlled from the remote control, there are no restrictions on the operating frequency of the drive.
It is also possible to programmatically reboot the controller.
When moving the curtains, the controller monitors the state of the limit switches. If, after starting to move, the corresponding switch does not operate within 20 seconds, the engine stops working. To continue operation of the drive after eliminating the malfunction, you just need to reboot the controller.

All electronics are installed in a standard plastic case:

One of the switches is needed to switch the electronics to automatic operation mode, the second allows you to completely turn off the power to the motor.
Using 3.5mm Jack sockets, a light sensor, TSOP for receiving data from the remote control, and external temperature sensors are connected to the device.
The LED is covered with a white cap so it can be seen from any angle.

View of the assembled and installed electronics unit:

Video of the drive operation (control from the remote control):

In this article I will talk about the design of an automatic curtain drive installed on my balcony. There we grow flowers that are harmed by direct sunlight. In addition, in the summer, if the balcony windows are closed, in direct sunlight the air on the balcony quickly overheats. However, when there is no direct light, it is advisable to open the curtains - the shadow also does not contribute to the growth of flowers. Therefore, to maintain acceptable illumination on the balcony, I automated the operation of the curtains.

Mechanics

The curtains were originally already on the balcony. There are two of them, both suspended on a metal cable stretched under the ceiling from one wall of the balcony to the other. It is clear that you need to move both curtains at once, and due to the friction of the curtains on the cable (it is quite rough), the required force must be quite large. In addition, sometimes there may be obstacles in the path of the curtains, for example, a slightly open balcony window, which further increases the strength requirements.
Thus, the drive must be quite powerful and reliable - there is often high humidity on the balcony, and a fairly large temperature difference is possible in winter and summer. Therefore, I based the drive on a car window lift drive. It has sufficient power, is capable of producing high torque (it has a built-in worm gear) and is very reliable.

The mechanical diagram of the drive is shown below:

More details about the design. A plastic roller with a groove is attached to the window lift drive shaft (on the left in the diagram), on which a turn of rope is wound. The drive is mounted on one of the walls of the balcony. A similar roller is attached to the opposite wall, through which a rope is also thrown.
After this, the rope is tensioned so that the friction of the rope on the drive roller is enough to move the curtains. The opposite ends of each curtain are attached to a rope so that when the motor rotates, the curtain moves or moves apart.

Photo of the drive itself on the layout:

As can be seen from the photo, a fairly large thin plate is attached to the window lift drive (I used textolite). A metal corner with two holes is attached to it, through which a rope is passed. It is needed so that the turn of the rope on the roller does not get tangled; for this purpose, the holes in the corner are made at different heights relative to the plate.
To the right of the corner are limit switches needed to stop the curtains in their extreme positions. In order to indicate these positions, two plastic tubes are put on the rope (only one of them is visible in the photo next to the bottom switch). The tubes are arranged so that when the curtain reaches its extreme position, one of them presses the switch, and for reliable pressing, a metal plate is attached next to each of the switches, which presses the tube to the switch.
Three metal posts attached to the plate are needed to secure the drive cover.
Both rope rollers are made from furniture wheels. Using a drill and a file, you need to make a groove in each of them; two turns of rope should fit in the groove of the drive roller. The drive roller is attached to the shaft by tension, and the hole in it had to be bored out to a square one, since the drive shaft is square.
The drive is attached to the balcony wall using suitable furniture corners (one of them is visible in the photo on the left). There are enough mounting holes in the window lift drive, so there are no problems with fastening.

View of the drive already attached to the wall and covered with a lid:

In order to tension the rope, a special screw with a nut is used, to which the ends of the rope are attached:

The end of one of the curtains is also attached to it.

Electronics

Power circuit diagram

The control electronics are represented by the STM8S microcontroller. The controller performs quite a lot of functions - measuring illumination, making a decision about starting the drive, monitoring the position of curtains using limit switches, controlling power supply to the drive, controlling the drive in manual mode - according to commands from the remote control. In addition, a radio module based on NRF24L01 and a 1-Wire bus are connected to the controller, through which three temperature sensors are connected. Using the radio module, you can control the drive and read temperature values at different points on the balcony and on the street, however, at the moment the second radio module is connected only to the breadboard, so I will not consider this functionality further.

Control circuit diagram

All electronics are installed in a standard plastic case:

One of the switches is needed to switch the electronics to automatic operation mode, the second allows you to completely turn off the power to the motor.
Using 3.5mm Jack sockets, a light sensor, TSOP for receiving data from the remote control, and external temperature sensors are connected to the device.
The LED is covered with a white cap so it can be seen from any angle.

View of the assembled and installed electronics unit:

Video of the drive operation (control from the remote control):

Roll-type sun protection systems are often installed in residential areas. They perfectly protect the room from the penetration of sunlight, create an air cushion that traps cold air, while occupying a minimum of space.

The designs look quite aesthetically pleasing and are appropriate in almost any interior. Electric roller blinds are very easy to use. The article will tell you their types, features and installation methods.

By purchasing electric roller blinds, you can:

Control the roller shutter by pressing a button located on the wall unit or on the remote control.
When installing several roller blind systems in one room, arrange synchronization and centralized management process.
Use a timer. In this case, roller blinds can be configured to protect the room from overheating when exposed to sunlight.

Regulate lighting and save energy in bright street lighting.

A motorized roller blind is not fundamentally different in design from a regular roller blind. The electric drive does not interfere with the appearance of the product or its design.

Features of automatic curtains and their types

Roller blinds are installed in small rooms and spacious rooms of private houses, which is especially convenient when there is no need to waste time manually adjusting multiple systems. After programming, the device can be controlled as a whole by all windows or each separately.

Such electric drive designs have several more advantages:

The impact on the blade, when controlled with the same force, reduces the wear of the material and fasteners.
The cost of installing the system is not too high, especially if you do it yourself.
Often this option is the only option for controlling sun filters mounted in hard-to-reach places: ceiling or roof windows.
The mass of roller blinds covering large windows is quite large. Manual adjustment quickly gets tiring; it is better to initially purchase a design with an electric drive.
For tilt and turn plastic windows A specially designed mini-cassette system.
The frame and guide structures are painted or made of laminated aluminum.
There are no control circuits or other unnecessary parts.
Easy installation, without drilling the frame.
The built-in electric motor operates on 12V voltage. This is a reliable mechanism with a lithium battery.
In 5-6 hours the battery is fully charged from a 220V AC network.
Modern multi-channel control panel.

Tip: The procedure for adjusting roller blinds using the control panel should be thought out in advance. It is easier to immediately install a centralized system than to add the necessary functions later, which can lead to an increased risk of technical failures of the system.

Automatic roller blinds can be controlled in two ways. Their features are presented in the table:

Control type	Peculiarities
	The curtains are controlled via a specially programmed remote control. You can place a timer on it, giving the remote control commands at a specific time. The system works on the same principle as an alarm clock.
	To close/open the curtains, just press the button installed next to the window, as in the photo.

Very expensive models of roller blinds with photocells are also manufactured, which react very sensitively to artificial or natural lighting, lowering or rising at the right moment.

Operating principle and methods of controlling electric roller blinds

All declared functions of automatic curtains are performed by a special motor. It sets in motion a pipe, which is used to wind curtains onto it.

Tip: Before installing the structure, you need to carefully evaluate the weight of the panel used. If the fabric is too heavy and wound around a small pipe diameter, its walls may be deformed, which will lead to disruption of the entire installation.

Models are available where the motor is installed from the roll on the right or left, this eliminates some of the technical risks.

When you press a stationary button or on the control panel, the motor starts. This provokes the curtain to wrap around the pipe, or the panel to lower.

Tip: If automatic curtains make a lot of noise during operation, this only indicates poor quality of installation. Proper assembly of the structure works quietly without disturbing its owner.

The most popular control panels for electric roller blinds are presented in the table:

Remote control brand	Peculiarities
	Works in tandem with a chip built into the device. It can transmit a signal through walls and works within a radius of 35 meters. Has a touch screen.
	The device has traditional buttons. On blinds, the signal is transmitted via radio channels, which can be from 1 to 15, depending on the model of the radio remote control.
	Roller blinds are activated when you press this switch. In this case, no wiring is required - the automatic blinds are activated from a distance.
	This is a classic option for operating blinds.

Installation of electric curtains

Before you start assembling electric blinds, you should carefully watch the video. Here you can get acquainted not only with the installation sequence finished products, but also the order of how to make an electric drive for roller blinds yourself. This will help avoid unpleasant consequences due to incorrect installation and unnecessary costs.

Installation instructions for ready-made electric curtains suggest:

Unpack the blinds, cutting them carefully so as not to scratch the product or the packaging sleeve.
Attach the product with brackets for fastening it to the installation site and mark the intended fixation points for the brackets.
A hole is drilled for one bracket located on the electric drive side. Dowels are inserted if necessary. The bracket is screwed on with screws.
The upper pipe is inserted into the bracket with the side where the electric drive is located and aligned horizontally.
The second bracket is inserted into the pipe and its installation location is marked. In this case, it is necessary to ensure a tight fit of the brackets to the pipe.
The pipe is removed.
Holes are drilled to fix the second bracket, located on the sleeve side, and dowels are inserted, if necessary.
Doesn't screw in completely top part bracket with one screw.
The upper pipe is inserted into the first bracket with the side where the electric drive is located.
The sleeve at the opposite end of the pipe is inserted into another bracket, turning it slightly relative to the pipe.
The bottom part of the bracket is screwed on.

Self-made design

The order of work is as follows:

The dimensions of future curtains are determined and blanks are made. For this:

Measured window frame- the length of future curtains should match its dimensions. In this case, curtains can be large. But no more than 12 cm.
The width of the blinds must match the width of the frame. And 2 cm should be left for attacks.
The material is cut on two patterns: one of them will be the front side; the other - inside out.
The patterns are folded right side in and sewn together. The resulting workpiece is turned inside out. The remaining hole in the bag is sewn up.

Tip: When using ready-made curtains, they should be upgraded by including a plastic rod in the mechanism.

The blinds are attached to a wooden beam. Their width should be 1 cm greater than the length of the beam. Next:

The material for curtains is laid inside out.
At the top of the material, an indentation of at least 5 cm is made.
Pre-prepared timber is laid.
The material is tightly stapled to it.
It is necessary for the rail to pull the curtain, for which a small pocket is made: the material must be folded 3 cm; a timber is threaded into the resulting pocket.

The electric drive can be purchased in a store or assembled with your own hands. For this you will need: an extension cord for bits, an electric screwdriver powered by three batteries.

The battery compartment is disconnected.
The power cables are extended by 2 or 2.5 meters.
The gearbox and electric motor are being finalized. This is necessary for installing the electric drive in a confined space. The modification consists in reducing the mechanism body.

The drive is connected to the blinds. The bit mounting extension is provided in a special gland. The standard plug is removed. An oil seal is installed quite tightly at the end of the winding body.

A special bracket is attached to the frame to secure the device. Installation of the curtain is carried out after mounting the motor, in a horizontal position. A reversing switch is mounted on the power supply, which controls the operation of the assembled structure.

Tip: If the electric drive is made with a motor and gearbox, in order to select the right model, it is necessary to take into account the speed and force of rotation of the shaft. The power of the unit must be at least 12 W, and the shaft rotation speed must be more than 15 rpm.

The engine is placed in a plastic box. The cable is being laid. Buttons are installed to control the structure.

Some expert advice for correct installation motorized curtains:

Buy an Arduino module. The operation of the device can be regulated by the module after installing a special program on it. This is especially convenient when installing systems with 2 or more windows. Lightly pressing the buttons allows you to set the desired closing/opening speed, raising the curtains completely or partially, and performing other necessary manipulations. In addition, the Arduino module allows you to program additional functions, such as a security mode, which promptly notifies you of malfunctions in the module.

Leave the function of controlling the blinds structure manually. This will allow, if the balance is disturbed, to synchronize the operation of the system or use curtains when disconnecting the motor, to replace or repair it.
It is necessary to protect the mechanical part of the curtains from dust and moisture entering the room through the window or soot and steam for curtains in the kitchen.
The electric drive requires repair over time; plastic boxes containing moving elements cannot be glued together. To fasten them together, you need to use staples that can be removed if necessary.

An electric roller blind is a step towards comfort and coziness in any home. With an electric drive, significantly less effort and energy is spent than when opening/closing curtains by hand.