Smart Home World - Feb 2023 Magazine

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CONTENTS

Cover Story

The blend of technology and kitchen appliances is the future of Smart Kitchens in India…read on to know more.

In Conversation

Ar. Sandeep Shikre speaks to Smart Home World about his experience using Smart Automation, and the advantages it provides to specific types of projects. Skip Ashton, a Distinguished Engineer at Infineon, provides an overview of Infineon’s operations and the industries it serves.

Taral Trivedi, Managing Director, Somfy India speaks about the company’s growth, innovative products launched over the years, and the latest TaHomaconnected solution.

Feature Story

With raising air pollution, Air Purifiers are a must. Smart Home World provides you with the latest updates and technical advancements in Air Purifiers.

Flashback

Taking a stroll through past memories of Smart Home Expo 2022 and anticipating what to expect in the upcoming 2023 edition.

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Special Report

ISE 2023 broke all its previous records in many arenas right from the recording highest footfalls in terms of visitors to new brands and support of political dignitaries at the Fira Gran Via Barcelona. Read on to know more.

Case Study

Ashish Thakkar offers a customized lighting solution for Kalidas Banquet that not only improves the ambiance but also uses less energy.

Experience Centre

The Den – an AV Experience Centre located in Worli, Mumbai designed by Ar. Khushboo and Kunal Khandelwal aesthetically displays an exclusive range of Audio-Video brands.

Product in Spotlight

Switch Up Your Home’s Décor with eGlu’s Newly Launched Handcrafted Leather Scene Controller Switches News

The latest updates on new products, launches, and events.

FROM THE EDITOR

With the changing and ever-evolving technology, it is important that we learn to gradually adapt to the new technology. The integration of automation and technology in kitchens has completely changed how we perceive Kitchens. New-age Smart Kitchen and Appliances are becoming popular in Indian homes.

With appliances getting smarter and more intelligent brands are offering innovative smart appliances with the latest technologies and hi-tech features for smart cooking areas. And you will be surprised to know that there is a huge demand for Smart Kitchen and Appliances. Read our cover story to know more.

With increasing air pollution, Air Purifiers are a must! Smart Home World provides the latest updates and advancements in Air Purifiers. We also feature The Den – an AV Experience Centre located in Worli, Mumbai designed by Ar. Khushboo and Kunal Khandelwal that aesthetically displays an exclusive range of Audio-Video brands. Next, we have a dedicated section to showcase the highlights of ISE 2023.

Plus, in our interview sections, you can read Expert Views of Senior Architect Ar. Sandeep Shikre, Skip Ashton, a Distinguished Engineer at Infineon, and Taral Trivedi, Managing Director, Somfy India.

For our All India Teams, the countdown begins…for the most awaited and biggest Smart Home Expo 2023. This year it is bigger and better …do not miss the chance to register.

Enjoy this issue and lets us know your feedback.

Inviting Brands, Store Owners and System Integrators to showcase their projects in Smart Home World. Send us your videos and images at: sandeep@ smarthomeworld.in

Chief Editor: Swati Balgi

swati@smarthomeworld.in

Tech Journalist: Sunny Sawant sunny@smarthomeworld.in

Marketing Head: Sandeep Singh

sandeep@smarthomeworld.in

Assistant Manager - Sales: Monika Agnihotri

monika@smarthomeworld.in

Smart Home World thanks the various companies that have submitted information. For any editorial submissions, please contact Ms. Swati Balgi, Editor, at swati@smarthomeworld.in. The information published in News, Ongoing Trends and Product Gallery is as per the details furnished by the respective manufacturer/distributor. It does not reflect the views of Smart Home World or of the management of WORLD MEDIA & EXPO LLP.

SWATI BALGI

Smart Kitchens are Multifunctional and Hyperconnected Spaces

The blend of technology and kitchen appliances is the future of Smart Kitchens in India… read on to know more.

Market watchers report India is among the top four countries in Asia that propel the Smart Kitchen Appliance business. Now, if you are wondering why there is a raise in demand. There are various reasons for this transformation from Kitchens to Smart Kitchens. One of the important factors for the growth of this segment is the growing focus on making healthy and conscious food choices. It is predicted that several contemporary trends involving health and food are expected to materialize and take shape in 2023. One such emerging trend is a growing interest in culinary cultures that has a renewed focus on wellness, which will drive the use of Smart Kitchens and Appliances demand upward this year.

While the other major factor is the multi-tasking lifestyle, especially in India, for many working people, the worklife balance is a major challenge and so there is rising demand for Smart Kitchen Gadgets and Appliances that are energy-efficient and time-saving.

“Indian kitchens have evolved greatly to keep up with the times. Integrated kitchens are catching up in India. We are working on providing Smart Kitchens in a few of our upcoming projects.” says Ashutosh Wad, Partner Space Dynamix.

While Bengaluru-based Abhishek Chadha, CEO KariGhars says “We believe in designing a smart kitchen with well-connected food gadgets and appliances and promoting a healthy lifestyle that extends beyond innovative technology in your projects. The convenience, efficiency, and comfort that smart kitchen technology delivers to daily life make a significant impact, allowing for effortless living at your fingertips. We aim to increase the management of energy distribution of multiple appliances evenly by providing smart kitchen technology to our consumers. An interface of interaction between the user and the products gives the user more control over his environment and allows him to modulate it as desired.”

Understanding Smart Kitchens

The smart kitchen comprises smart appliances designed to make life easier, with the bonus of potentially reducing energy bills. Today, these smart devices are remotely controlled and monitored through mobile Apps and Voice Commands, adding an extra layer of convenience to everyday life by reducing time and effort.

In its most simplistic form, a Smart kitchen features smart devices to automate tasks for you. Regardless

of the room, the basic principle of smart technology involves connecting to the Internet of Things (IoT) technology, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. As smart devices connect to other technology, it’s effortless to control them through Apps or platforms like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

Voice-Activated Kitchen Appliances

A recent study by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) found that only 30 per cent of kitchen designers actively incorporate voice-activated technology into their projects. Yet younger designers are leading the way. In the future, the kitchen could be an intelligent hub where people can get information quickly.

For a truly smart kitchen, there is a need for appliances that can communicate with other appliances and smart devices that can connect to the internet. Luckily, smart appliances can communicate through short-wave radio frequency (Wi-Fi) signals, which allows them to work together in a single system. For example, a smart range hood can communicate with a smart device to turn on its ventilation under certain conditions.

A connected refrigerator can remind users when their milk expires, so they can do their shopping without forgetting. It can also alert owners of empty shelves and remind them to buy more milk. It makes life easier and less stressful, eliminating the need to go to the store when you’re hungry. Connected kitchen appliances and fixtures can make cooking easier and faster.

With the advent of connected technologies, it has become easier to multitask. With Wi-Fi-connected meat thermometers, you can monitor internal meat temperatures with your phone, ensuring the perfect cooking results every time. Smart speakers have even entered the kitchen with voice-activated functionality. Not only can they perform a variety of kitchen tasks, but they can also control other components in the kitchen. What

is IoT?

The latest generation of smart appliances is designed to be connected to your home’s smart hub. These devices can be controlled through voice commands, Apps, and other connected devices. You can customize the settings on your connected appliances based on your preferences. A fully connected kitchen could also have cameras that record the interior of your kitchen. Ultimately, this new technology can make cooking easier and more fun.

Bluetooth Enabled Appliances

Putting Bluetooth-enabled appliances in your kitchen design is a great way to improve your productivity and enjoy a more efficient and enjoyable cooking experience. These appliances can help you do the job faster and easier with various settings and sensors. You can even use your smart device to control the appliances from anywhere in the house. Bluetooth-enabled kitchen appliances are becoming increasingly popular and can be a great addition to your kitchen design. With Bluetooth technology, most appliances can

communicate with each other and smart devices in range. This enables your appliances to control and automate certain aspects of your cooking routine, including the temperature, time, and cooking time.

Wi-Fi Enabled Appliances

Smart appliances can make cooking a breeze, including your coffee machine that syncs with your smartphone. Many new appliances can even read recipes and control cooking time with a button. These appliances don’t have to be overly glitzy to be helpful. Just make sure they are compatible with your devices. With the advent of smartphones and the internet, many everyday objects are undergoing smart makeovers to become more convenient and efficient. The rise of Wi-Fi-enabled kitchen appliances will bring even more functionality to your kitchen. For instance, you’ll have smartphonecontrolled kettles and cookers that connect to Apps on your smartphone. With the ability to control your appliances with a phone App, you can get more out of your kitchen.

Smart Brands and Features

Samsung’s SmartThings Station is easy to set up making it easy to automate pre-set routines created via the SmartThings Mobile App without requiring users to control individual devices manually. When one is leaving home, SmartThings Station can turn Off power outlets and unused appliances to save energy.

Samsung’s new Bespoke AI Oven is promising to be that virtual chef. The oven’s smart camera is capable of food recognition and burn detection, which means it can recognize up to 80 different dishes and recommend cooking settings for each of them. With the SmartThings App, this new smart oven also promises to recommend meals based on your workout stats, diet goals and the ingredients you have at home.

Samsung Bespoke 4-Door Flex Refrigerator with Family Hub + features a 32-inch vertical touchscreen, which is twice as large as previous models. You can use this screen to view or share photographs from Google Photos library, control your SmartThings devices and make digital shopping lists for Amazon deliveries. You can also use it to watch TV.

LG InstaViewThinQ Range

LG ThinQ range has the best and ideal smart kitchen appliances for smart kitchens. LG’s ThinQ range uses AI which makes communication between appliances possible. LG smart fridge has new AI addition. If you have an LG InstaViewThinQ refrigerator and an LG InstaViewThinQ dishwasher, the fridge will be able to inform the dishwasher that a huge load is on the way. Amazon Alexa reads out the recipes and lets you add items to your shopping list. Also, touch sensors, LCD screens, and running webOS are the additional features that make the range extremely intelligent. LG is undoubtedly one of the leading Indian home appliances brands.

LG Insta-View Smart Wi-Fi Enabled 21.9-cu ft CounterDepth French Door Refrigerator consists of Dispenser Light, Door alarm, LED Light, Water filtration, and water filter indicator. This refrigerator has features like Voice Controlling, Wi-fi Controlling, Alexa control, Android and iOS controlling, and Google Assistant.

The LG 675 L Inverter Wi-Fi Frost-Free Side-by-Side Refrigerator has an array of features to ensure your food items stay fresh, natural and preserved. One of the most useful features of the smart fridge is Hygiene Fresh+, a 5-step antibacterial deodorisation that removes bacteria up to 99.9% and minimises bad odour in the refrigerator. At the front is a chiller compartment

which gives you quick access to the food you need. Additionally, digital sensors monitor and respond to warm food and open doors, instantly maintaining optimum interior temperature. If you download the LG ThinQ App on your phone, you can even monitor the fridge and its contents remotely.

GE NextGen

GE NextGen Kitchen Hub lets you watch movies and recipe videos while cooking. The GE NextGen Kitchen Hub offers a tech-savvy cooking experience. The Artificial Intelligence Technology of this hood makes it one of the most innovative smart appliances. Moreover, it comes with cameras to record, view, and share your cooking recipes. You can also watch recipes and videos. Furthermore, the AI helps detect the doneness of food, temperature regulation, and much more. Also, the kitchen Hub comes with a 27-inch smart touch screen for the Kitchen platform design and an in-oven camera as well. This is a perfect product for parallel platform kitchen designs.

The U by Moen Smart Faucet

The U by Moen is a smart faucet for luxury kitchen designs. It is a smart kitchen appliance that works on sensor technology and voice control for a fabulous kitchen platform design. Its voice control feature allows you to regulate the flow and temperature of the water using voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Moreover, the Wave Sensor lets you turn On and Off the faucet with a simple hand movement. You can also adjust the flow and temperature of the water manually.

BSH Home Appliances (India & SAARC)

“The home appliances from Bosch with the Home Connect function open up totally new possibilities in your home. You can now control and monitor all your appliances remotely and conveniently from your smartphone or tablet, which makes your everyday life even easier – and of course lets you achieve perfect results,” says Neeraj Bahl, MD & CEO, BSH Home Appliances (India & SAARC).

Bosch home appliances are designed as an open system, Home Connect expands your product experience further with new services and functions. For example, their partnership with HelloFresh can transmit their cooking recipes directly to your Bosch oven, which then automatically adjusts to the ideal cooking settings for a perfect result. All you need is a smartphone or tablet with Wi-Fi. The Home Connect app for these appliances can be downloaded for free from the App Store or the Google Play Store.

Bosch Coffee Machine conveniently order your coffee from an automated coffee machine via your phone or tablet. The Bosch coffee machine provides a range of coffee varieties for you to try every time you need that hit of caffeine.

Hindware

Hindware Smart Appliances - Elara iPro

Hindware Smart Appliances Elara iPro water purifier is equipped with IoT-enabled water purifier by Hindware that provides information such as real-time TDS of purified water and tracks a household’s daily water consumption while being connected to Hindware Smart Appliances mobile App. Additionally, the Wi-Fi direct technology in the water purifier allows communication without active internet connectivity. Moreover, there is a smart touch display icon for online call registration through the water purifier itself.

Hindware Smart Appliances - Optimus I-Pro

Bosch Dishwashers: Easy Start in your Home Connect app, and it will recommend the best programme for your dishes. So, you’ll always have the best washingup expert in your house – even when your mum isn’t around.

The Hindware Smart Appliances Optimus I-Pro is one of India’s first IoT-enabled chimney with MaxX Silence Technology, which produces 32% less noise than traditional Auto-clean Kitchen Chimneys. Equipped with Thermal Autoclean Technology, it helps in easy maintenance and cleaning of the chimney from the inside without any added hassle of doing the same manually. It provides a real-time clock in display and comes with filterless technology that is ideal for heavyduty cooking in Indian kitchens due to its better suction capabilities. Being a smart appliance, the chimney features a stunning touch control panel and motion-sensing technology that simplifies the cooking experience with just a simple wave of your hand. It can be connected to the Hindware Smart Appliances mobile

Basalte design for your intelligent home

At the slightest touch the room dims to the right scene. Your favourite music starts playing, the temperature rises and the curtains open. The ultimate home feeling. Control everything with your app, design keypads or intelligent remote. Basalte Home, the future of the modern home.

application and can also be operated from any corner of the house using Alexa and Ok Google. The application helps the users to get alerts to clean the chimney, control the suction speed, switch on/off the appliance and the facility to book a service appointment.

Future Vision

The Silestone Institute, part of the Cosentino Group, has worked with leading experts to produce an insightful report which predicts the characteristics of the kitchen of the future. The report, entitled ‘Global Kitchen: The Home Kitchen in the era of Globalisation’ is the result of a collaboration with 17 distinguished experts from the worlds of design, cooking, domestic technology, sociology, nutrition and sustainability. Santiago Alfonso, Marketing Vice President for the Cosentino Group says, “Global Kitchen is an international project providing valuable insights into the kitchen of the future and aims to become an essential reference tool for professionals and consumers. It creates the opportunity for multidisciplinary reflection to analyse the effect of globalisation on kitchen architecture and design, to determine how this space will develop over the next 25 years.”

Key predictions in the Global Kitchen report include:

The kitchen will be a hyper-connected, multi-functional space for work, leisure, health and relaxation.

• It will incorporate techniques and smart devices normally found in professional kitchens such as vacuum cooking and packaging. It will further cement its role as the ‘centre of the home’; the largest and most invested room in the house.

• The kitchen will develop as a multi-functional space in all countries and is expected to disappear as an independent room.

• Connectivity and smart appliances will be managed from mobile and wearable devices and will not only make shopping and laundry easier, but ensure endless access to information from the Internet of Things.

• The worktops will be able to cook, make calls, broadcast TV or provide access to the internet. They will be height adjustable, contain recipe databases where chefs will guide the user through the method, ingredient information and be able to weigh food. The refrigerator will offer permanent access to nutritional information on screens.

• Intelligent lighting will be variable to match the time of day, mood or the type of food being cooked.

We are Smart Home World believe that Smart Kitchens and Appliances will make cooking more exciting and enjoyable. Smart kitchens and Appliances are no longer a luxury but a necessity.

Convenient Security with Smart Solutions from Yale

Yale Smart Door Locks bring you keyless convenience to unlock your door. Choose from the latest in smart door-locking technology –fingerprint, smart card or keypad – to open your door. Each offers an immediate door-opening solution and adds simplicity to your lifestyle. With the Yale Smart lock range, you can control your door from anywhere with your phone and enjoy freedom while knowing that your home is safely secured. It is made by combining cutting-edge technology, classic design, and unbeatable performance.

Enter your home with a simple push action with Yale YMI70 Smart Push Digital main door lock. Featuring the new ONE TOUCH™ biometric scan for an even easier access. Yale YMI 70 gives the user all the access capabilities and works with Yale Bridge, which enables the user to open the lock remotely from any location

Unlock the door lock easily

Yale App is an integrated security solution that controls the opening and closing of your Yale smart door locks through your smartphone application and provides real-time status monitoring of your home.

Personalize your lock settings

User-friendly interface to personalize your lock settings. Register RFID cards, user pin codes, card keys & Bluetooth keys, as you want. Add a one-time user code for visitors like your parents whenever you are not at home to welcome them!

Yale Access App Features empower you to control your front door from anywhere with your phone

• Control From Anywhere – Experience the powerful benefits of a key that works everywhere. With the Yale Access app, remotely let Mom in when she arrives early or secure your door if the kids forgot to lock it when leaving.

• Unlocks Automatically - Forget fumbling with keys, the lock automatically unlocks as you approach with your smartphone, via Bluetooth. You can also set it to lock as you leave so you never have to worry about whether you locked the door.

• Guest Keys - Manage access to your home from anywhere. Send secure keys to friends, family, or people you trust instantly, all from the August app. Never hide keys again or worry about who has a copy.

• 24/7 History – See who comes and goes with smartphone notifications and a 24/7 access history in the app.

• Share Access – Grant access to your home to the people you trust. Give permanent access, or temporary access or set a unique access schedule.

Other Operational Features

One-touch Fingerprint Verification Method

Easy Scan technology has been applied to Conveniently read a fingerprint in one touch to enter conveniently.

Pin Code Access

With YMI 70, you do not have to worry about carrying anything with you. Even if you have forgotten everything, just type your PIN codes into the keypad and the door is unlocked.

RFID Card Access

YMI 70 can be operated with a simple card – just like your bank cards. Easy and reliable, it perfectly fits your purse or wallet.

Mechanical key

For emergencies, it can also be unlocked with a mechanical key.

Smart Keypad

The keypad displays functional operation with various patterns of light.

Auto Lock

If you are sometimes forgetful, you can set your smart lock to automatically activate 5 seconds after you close the door - so you never have to worry whether you remembered to lock it again.

One Time Password

Issue single-use temporary passwords for convenient visitor access.

Code Scrambling

If when you come to use your PIN code you are concerned someone is watching the numbers you type, you can scramble your code to make it much harder to follow. Just type in some random numbers before or after your code and the lock will still operate - but the number will be much harder to remember!

Low Battery Alert

Low battery alert gives you a simple audible and visual alert to let you know when the batteries are getting low - giving you plenty of time to change the batteries.

Cancel a Lost Card

What happens if you lose one of your access cards? Cancelling lost cards is simple - and there is no need to change the lock!

Smart Etiquette

If you have a little child or often enter/exit your home late at night, you can adjust the volume or mute the key tone of the door-opening melody for your family or neighbourhood.

Alarms

Your Yale lock will keep out most burglars, but what if they try to break it with a hammer? Our built-in loud alarm will sound as soon as it is attacked, letting everyone know and scaring the burglar away.

You can get excellent performance, a nice look, and quality that lasts without breaking the bank. Great for homes that have a modern, minimalist look! Voice assistants like Google Home and Amazon Alexa let you open and close doors and check on their status without using your hands. It looks great with your modern home and way of life. The unique Panel from cutting-edge technology uses a fingerprint scanner to ensure that only the people you choose can get in.

Sandeep Shikre: BAS can Mitigate Potential Problems in Real-time.

Ar. Sandeep Shikre speaks to Smart Home World about his experience using Smart Automation, and the advantages it provides to specific types of projects.

Shikre, along with Ar. Alpa Shikre set up a design consultancy firm in 1989, under the name of Sandeep Shikre and Associates popularly known as SSA Architects.

SSA provides comprehensive services encompassing all specialized fields, across the spectrum of sectors from Healthcare to Hospitality, Residential to Commercial, Education to High Rises, from Master planning to Mixed Use Developments.

Ar. Sandeep Shikre speaks to Smart Home World about adopting Smart Automation Technology and the benefits BAS provides to Green and Sustainable buildings.

Ar. Sandeep

What are the advantages Smart Automation Systems provide to your projects?

In today’s smart age, advancement in technology plays a very crucial role in our lives. Smart technology is in our automobiles, our phones, our televisions, and more and more, in our homes and commercial buildings.

Any modern building today involves complex engineering and services such as MEP, Vertical Transportation, Fire Fighting, FAPA, Security, AVIT, Energy Management, Home Equipment Fixtures, Fittings, and Appliances etc. to function efficiently. The science of Smart Automation Systems helps in the better functional output of the building services as it integrates the operations of the systems through a single network which is known as IBMS (Integrated building management system).

The benefits of home automation typically fall into a few categories, including savings, safety, convenience, and control. Additionally, home automation also provides comfort and peace of mind to its users. Building owners and facility managers nowadays are progressively looking for data and information that gives them a clear image of the operations, machinery, and efficiency potential in their buildings. Along with the installation of IBMS to streamline data and diagnose the root causes of the problem, an intelligent building analytics platform is required which is provided by BAS.

Any new Smart Automation you are using in your ongoing projects. Can you please elaborate?

SSA has always been proactive in integrating productive smart solutions when designing any building. One of the latest BAS technologies adopted is for Transit Management in our mixed-use projects. To make vehicular and pedestrian movement a smooth travelling experience, the person entering the campus is given an e-invite on their smartphone which further links the boom barrier for vehicles and flap barriers for pedestrians that are then automatically accessible for a predetermined time period. Further, once the guest enters the building the nearest lift will come and wait with the help of a destination control system linked to the lift. This implementation of an automated transit management system has not only made the transition through the campus efficient in time and security but also a customer delight.

Besides this, we have integrated automation systems for Lighting, HVAC, AVIT, and Window Blinds for many of our residential interiors.

How do Green and Sustainable Buildings benefit from Building Automation systems?

BAS functions to limit energy usage as a whole and can result in a slew of environmental benefits that

Ground Floor, Den Area

keep building occupants healthier and happier. Some positive outcomes of automation include lower energy usage and tapered waste that lead to cost savings. A building’s individual stress on the electrical grid is also handled through automation.

Facility Management expenses also go down with automated building operations because systems control how things like HVAC and lighting. Automation also results in a reduction in overall energy use, a positive environmental outcome that can assist in a building earning a green certification. Alternatively, a BAS can mitigate potential problems in real-time, creating a more preventive posture. Building automation solutions can also be tailored to the type and size of facility or facilities, helping a facility manager better oversee larger buildings or multiple buildings.

Products like smart lightbulbs, sensor-based plumbing fixtures and thermostats can contribute to energy conservation and, over time, lower utility expenses. Technology for home automation can also monitor water use, assisting in avoiding astronomical water costs.

Products of which category (lighting, security, entertainment etc.) witness maximum demand when it comes to integrating smart home devices while doing the interiors? Why?

Today every category is expanding its products and services to adapt to BAS. Lighting is one of the prime

Home Theatre

sectors which has seen a burgeoning jump to be now BAS compatible. For the optimum use of energy, daylight sensors are fitted into the lighting fixtures. Automated lighting control with programmable dimming and On-Off can transform a home as well as the homeowner’s lifestyle.

In short, Lighting automation encompasses everything from a one-room scene-control system to a whole-house system controlling interior and exterior lighting. It may be the stand-alone, whole house, or for a room and/or house control, and be tied into the security system.

How do you foresee the Smart Home Industry 5 years down the line?

Automation, especially when linked with artificial intelligence, will pave the way for smarter and more efficient space functions. The key to making smart buildings better is using data analytics in an appropriate way. Smart buildings create tons of data. Every second, temperatures, pressures On/Off status, and more come rolling into the system. The problem is that data is a rich ore, not a finished product. A person cannot sift through all that data by oneself. It takes machines to go through such amounts of data, and this is where Artificial Intelligence starts to shine. Robotics presents another area that can help buildings reduce energy and improve efficiency and productivity. For example, many buildings successfully use automated ground vehicles, and robotic assembly lines in warehouses, and automate certain job functions. This translates into tangible savings to the bottom line.

Energy efficiency is a very important criterion, how do you tackle this by adopting Smart automation in your projects?

For energy efficiency initiatives, projects are integrated with building management systems which require information for data analytics. Smart automation helps in single central control of all fixtures, equipment, and services. Using the right automation system with an understanding of the efficiency parameters to be achieved smart home automation can be a blessing. With BAS it can result in significant savings; according to some estimates, automation of HVAC and lighting systems alone can reduce overall energy consumption by as much as 30%. This is achieved by using sensor-based lighting fixtures which can switch On/Off as per daylighting. Secondly, by providing valuable airside analytics regarding HVAC and fan coil units and variable air volume systems, including identifying unnecessary heating and cooling operations and setting heating and cooling system hours.

According to you, in which sector (hospitality, commercial, residential), traditional lighting is getting rapidly replaced by smart lighting?

Today Hospitality is definitely a major sector that is replacing traditional lighting with smart lighting looking at the trends and demands of this generation and modern trends.

Hospitality places like restaurants and hotels are keenly focusing on these new lighting demographics as LED light fixtures and lighting controls will play a pivotal role in crafting memorable experiences that capture the imagination of tomorrow’s travellers. A hotel lighting control system can also include

occupancy sensors to turn lights On or Off as guests come and go, which means energy savings one moment and a warm welcome the next.

In addition, residential spaces today are also upgrading their lighting design to improvise the ambiance and the way it is used.

In Conversation with Skip Ashton, Distinguished Engineer, Infineon

In his interview with Smart Home World, Skip Ashton, a Distinguished Engineer at Infineon, provides an overview of Infineon’s operations and the industries it serves. He explains how Infineon prioritizes meeting customer needs while highlighting some of the products and solutions Infineon offers. Skip also touches on how Infineon addresses security and privacy concerns when designing its products and solutions.

Could you provide an overview of Infineon’s business and the industries it serves? How does Infineon ensure that its products meet the needs of its customers through its research and development process?

Infineon has 4 divisions supplying semiconductors to Automotive, Industrial Power Control, Power and Sensors and Connected Secure Systems. Our focus is to make life easier, safer and greener with technology that achieves more, consumes less and is accessible to everyone.

Infineon practices a “Product to System” (P2S) approach to serve our customers. P2S allows us to better adapt our solutions and products to customers’ requirements, understand trends in the industry and develop innovative approaches with our customers.

What are the key features of Infineon’s microcontroller offerings?

Infineon offers a broad range of microcontrollers suitable for use across automotive, industrial and consumer markets. These products range from simpler 32-bit ARM M0 platforms for sensors and general-purpose use to high-performance, high-security devices suitable for the most complex applications.

The PSoC 6 Family provides an ultra-low-power dual-core architecture allowing designers to optimize for power and performance. It also includes the latest security architecture, rich analogue and digital peripherals and our industry-leading CAPSENSE capacitive sense technology for modern touch and gesture interfaces.

How do Infineon’s sensors work in smart homes and intelligent buildings?

Infineon makes a broad range of devices, from radar to CO2 as well as magnetic and current sensors. The XENSIV family was designed to meet the latest challenges in automotive, industrial and consumer applications. They are being used extensively by companies to “see”, “hear”, “feel” and understand their environment allowing more intelligent systems for intuitive interaction and context awareness.

How do Infineon’s smart card and security devices work in smart homes and intelligent buildings?

Infineon provides a broad range of security solutions used in applications from smart cards to intelligent devices and their authentication. Security is a core competency and the growth of IoT applications has driven product designers to apply the latest security devices for authentication and authorization of devices in both their commissioning and their ongoing communications.

In smart homes and buildings, we need to trust the devices we are commissioning and the overall system needs to trust the data and inputs being provided. Regulators and industry continue to raise the bar on the security required for the device and Infineon lead the way with our security devices.

How do Infineon’s wireless connectivity products work in smart homes and intelligent buildings? How does Infineon’s wireless connectivity technology enable new possibilities in the connected world?

Infineon provides a broad range of industry-leading Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips, both as standalone and combo devices depending on the application. These devices have been used extensively in security cameras, doorbells and door locks, HVAC systems and other connected devices in smart homes and buildings.

We also provide low-power 802.5.4 radios for the latest Thread and Matter applications as a popular new standard in the Smart Home. The recent launch of Matter supported by Apple, Amazon, Google and many of the largest smart home device companies had generated worldwide interest and further growth in the Smart Home using Wi-Fi and Thread technologies. We continue to work with customers every day on new applications and devices to enhance our interactions with our homes and buildings while reducing our energy usage.

What software solutions does Infineon offer for smart homes and smart buildings?

Software is core to the Infineon offerings in the Smart Home. IoT devices are a combination of sensors, microcontrollers, wireless connectivity and security. These elements must work together to make a successful product and Infineon can provide expertise in each of these areas. Bringing them all together is Modus Toolbox Software, a modern extensible development environment supporting our products with code examples, device drivers, middleware and configuration support.

How does Infineon’s technology enable the development of intelligent and sustainable buildings?

Infineon technology is at the core of today’s intelligent and sustainable buildings. Infineon power drivers help to make the most power-efficient devices – from individual building control points to full data centres we offer a range of industry-leading power products.

Infineon XENSIV sensors provide for the intelligent data collection on the building condition and occupancy.

Our microcontrollers are used for data processing on devices themselves or at the edge of networks in room and floor controller devices. These smart building devices are connected using our wireless products, forming a system that can optimize the environment as well as energy usage. Our security devices are used to protect IoT devices and building systems against the latest cybersecurity threats.

It takes all of these devices working together in a modern building to provide the awareness and adaptivity required for modern control systems to maximize the building’s occupancy and comfort while minimizing its energy usage.

How do Infineon address security and privacy concerns in smart home products and solutions? How does it approach security and privacy in the IoT?

Security and privacy are core principles at Infineon. We have joined with leading IoT companies in the development of the most recent smart home standard in Matter. This standard was developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) and it raises the bar on IoT device security ensuring all devices have a unique identity, can be security commissioned onto a network, encrypt all communications, and have overthe-air software update capabilities to ensure the latest software fixes and improvements can be deployed. Infineon was very involved in the security efforts in the development of this standard to ensure it follows

current and upcoming regulatory requirements as well as the known industry best practices. We are a Board member of CSA and committed to simplifying our customers’ implementation of core security and privacy requirements in IoT and we believe the development of these industry-wide standards is a key part of this effort.

Can you describe Infineon’s approach to energy efficiency and energy management in the development of its products and solutions?

Infineon has corporate goals for sustainability and energy management as we believe our products can enable greater efficiency and make active contributions toward climate protection. Infineon is focused on the long-term trends toward digitalization and decarbonization. Our smart devices can make life more pleasant, easier and safer. At the same time, our products provide for more efficient generation, conversion and use of electrical energy to reduce all our consumption. Together our products provide a link between the real world and the digital world and enable a carbon-neutral future.

Can you describe Infineon’s collaboration with partners and customers in the development of new technologies for smart homes?

The smart home is generally built around ecosystems. A customer selects one of these ecosystems and installs devices compatible with that system. This has slowed the adoption of the smart home as different ecosystems use different technologies and protocols.

We have committed to the development of the Matter standard over the past 3 years because of its promise to share a common protocol for smart home devices. Apple, Google, Amazon and other major smart home ecosystems are rolling out their software updates to support Matter. This close collaboration and standards development means device makers do not have to make different device versions for different home ecosystems, and consumers can purchase products with the confidence that they will install and work with their ecosystem of choice.

Is there anything else that you would like to share about Infineon’s technology, business, or future plans? Do you have any final thoughts or insights that you would like to share with our audience?

Infineon is committed to technology leadership and customer-focused innovation to drive success. We offer customers both individual components or complete solutions, including the necessary software, depending on their requirements. We focus on our customers as the best means to drive both our innovation but also optimal solutions for the market.

We are only just entering the widespread usage and growth of connected devices in our homes and businesses. Enabling seamless and secure sensing and connectivity will provide a better experience in our homes and buildings and result in new applications and opportunities we have not yet considered.

In Conversation with Taral Trivedi, Managing Director, Somfy India

In an interview with Smart Home World Taral Trivedi, Managing Director, Somfy India speaks about the company’s growth, innovative products launched over the years, and the latest TaHomaconnected solution. Read on to know more…

Can you highlight how Somfy has grown over the years, and the latest innovation in Smart Home Segment?

For more than 50 years, the Somfy group has been driving the improvement of living environments through automation, by designing and developing solutions for comfort, safety, energy saving, and personal autonomy. Present in 58 countries, Somfy group is the world leader in the automation of home and building openings and closings through its range of motors and control points, and a key player in the connected home.

Innovation plays a vital role in Somfy’s growth. In fact, innovation was the original principle behind Somfy, whose founders anticipated, nearly 50 years ago, the international growth potential of a market that did not exist at that time: motorized controls for blinds and rolling shutters. Since then, Somfy has continued to expand through a series of innovations: Radio Technology Somfy®, Centralized Equipment Control and, now, Somfy offers control solutions on open protocol platforms of digital and wireless technologies available in the market, like Dry Contact, RS485, Zigbee, KNX, IFTTT which allows third party systems to be able to integrate seamlessly with Somfy motors. Further extending the flexibility of control strategies, Somfy offers APIbased services for customized integration with thirdparty automation systems in the market. Somfy has

partnered with leading technology providers and system integrators in the market to offer end-to-end customized solutions.

What are Somfy’s latest innovations and reasons to develop such a product?

Ten years ago, Somfy was already pioneering this market with the launch of TaHoma—the first 100% wireless, 100% cloud-based box that is paving the way for simple and accessible home automation. The TaHoma -connected solution was widely adapted by leading European real estate developers to connect the homes in their properties. Then, with GAFA (Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon) entering the market, it accelerates the massification of smart home control and became the standard of connected residence by major real estate developers. The phenomenon creates an opportunity for more open and shared protocols for more interoperability, i.e. Zigbee and others coming up such as CHIP (Connected Home over IP), Matter, etc.

Somfy believes that connected devices should bring benefit to consumers, and ever since it has been a promoter member of the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), (formerly Zigbee Alliance), actively collaborating and promoting IoT applications with other strong smart home players.

The TaHoma series is based on Zigbee technology and can integrate motorized blinds and curtains into your smart home ecosystem. Users can enjoy a healthier space with a timer and solar detection function, protected from extreme heat or cold conditions, anytime and anywhere.

The need for motorization is further proved by World Health Organization (WHO) as they recommend improving indoor air quality and ventilation can help to reduce the risk of virus spreading indoors. With an increasing demand for smart home integration and motorization for window offerings in the Indian market, we are launching the TaHoma series with Zigbee technology specifically designed for Asia pacific market.

What are the advantages of TaHoma Series? How will this help control all the functions?

TaHoma is a smart control to centralize and control the connected equipment. It centralises and program all connected equipment: curtains, blinds, lighting, temperature, air conditioning, audio & video, etc. It

can be controlled at home or remotely via a smart controller: TaHoma App, automatic programming, or voice assistant such as Google Assistant & Amazon Alexa.

With TaHoma, you can experience the complete sense of well-being that a connected home offers with a reliable, simple and user-friendly home automation system.

TaHoma series is now compatible with nearly 300 types of home products and it is adding more every day. We are constantly reviewing users’ feedback to improve their experience with our TaHoma App.

As you mentioned Tahoma is a cloudbased box, where do you store customer data and is it safe? Voice assistants are not known to be very reliable when comes to data security, do you agree to share your data with them?

Although there is no such thing as zero risks, we take every precaution to be as close to it as possible. Somfy uses a variety of servers, most of which are based in the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and Singapore, covered by General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and/or regulations offering a sufficient and appropriate level of data protection. Our internal teams constantly carry out safety audits and we also have outside auditing companies perform analyses to ensure an optimal level of protection. Awareness programs are also implemented to train our employees internationally and across all business verticals.

For Voice Assistants, we do not transmit any data other than those strictly required to use the products, and on the condition that the user has given their prior consent. For our part, we ensure the highest possible security and confidentiality of the data we process. Somfy, Amazon, and all stakeholders in the digital sector are committed to a process of continuous improvement in terms of security and data protection, with the consumer and their security at the heart of our concerns.

On the other hand, we have taken security measures depending on the applications. For example, for security reasons, the front door, garage door, and windows cannot be controlled by voice via Amazon Alexa. For Google Wizard, the user must use a predefined security code.

We are not immune to external attacks on our data; however, we have a security breach management system that allows us to act instantly and notify the supervisory authorities within 72 hours if necessary.

Can you share with our readers the latest innovation of Somfy’s TaHoma App?

With TaHoma App, you can have lighting automation, controls of blinds and curtains, temperature, humidity sensors. All these things can be monitored and controlled through the App even it’s in offline mode. “So Open” API partnership program allows the user to integrate TaHoma with third-party automation systems such as Schneider, Legrand, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and many more.

Somfy’s “So Open” (API partnership) program allows the user experience to control multiple devices and create scenarios, maintain and monitor, collect, share and analyse data, and Integrate third-party environments.

Can you share with us your offerings for motors on blinds and curtains?

The Ultra range series offers a wide variety of choices for different needs, including Glydea Ultra, Sonnesse Ultra and Izigo Ultra. The Ultra series is quiet, powerful, and flexible that can be adapted into different interior designs for both residential and commercial buildings. The motor has patented technologies that can be as quiet as 38dB and can take up to 60kg of curtain weight, with which you can enjoy the silence without compromising on the fabrics. The Ultra series can be connected via wired, radio, digital, AC & DC which allows standalone and integrated solutions. Wireless options are also available in the Tubular range for small or retrofit windows.

You have a range that can be controlled with a Smart remote. Can you elaborate on the same?

Situo, Telis 16 & Smoove (Wireless switch) series are available in different colour options to match specific interior design requirements

These remotes have wireless-based smart remote technology called RTS (Radio Technology Somfy), 433.42 MHz frequency. It allows controlling Somfy RTS motors within a range of 200 m in free space and 20m between 2 concrete walls. Radio signals are encrypted via 16 million rolling codes for security to eliminate the possibility of copying/hacking. With timer-based functionality, it allows for the scheduled execution of Radio commands without manual intervention.

What are the unique features of your remote controls? And what type of functions do they perform?

Besides regular functionalities of a remote i.e., Down, Open, Close, users can create customised positions of their blinds and curtains via the “My” button. Multi-channel remote allows for the control of multiple shades with one remote and the timer function gives the user peace of mind to control Somfy motors at defined scheduled intervals. There is also a precession tilting feature via a dedicated scroll button and timer function to control Somfy motors at defined scheduled intervals

Somfy has a wide range, can you share with our readers the solutions you offer right from Shades, Blinds, Awnings, Pergolas, Projection Screens, and Lighting?

Somfy offers a wide range of motorization solutions ranging from small size windows of 500mm (retrofit) up to double-height customized windows. Somfy has multiple product references to cater to one application depending upon the specific user needs of lifting capacity, operating speed, technology type and operational noise, for -Blinds, shades & projection screen 40 mm range, 50mm range, Silent range -Sonesse 50, Sonesse 50 UQ. Awnings and Pergolas 60mm and 80 mm range with high torque and offers integration with sun and wind sensor and Lighting controls – Tahoma solution

What is your future business/expansion plans for the Indian Market? Any new categories/products you plan to introduce?

With smart home technologies being adapted in modern homes, we have developed bi-directional motors with Zigbee 3.0 technology. It gives us feedback from motors so users can know the actual placement/ position of their blinds and curtains. We recently launched it in the United States, and the market response has been positive. We intend to release this product soon in the Indian market.

We recently finished integrating BFT business: residential access and how gates and motors change the future. All of these things can be integrated into home automation.

How do you retail, and distribute your products in India? Who are your distributors, or elaborate on your allIndia distribution Channel?

Somfy has an extensive network of B2B and B2C partners spread across India. We have approximately close to 2000+ retail partners backed by 300+ channel partners for installation and after-sales services. We are the preferred brand partners within the specifiers’ segment.

Air Purifiers with Intelligent Air Management Options

With raising air pollution, Air Purifiers are a must. Smart Home World provides you with the latest updates and technical advancements in Air Purifiers.

According to Observer Research Foundation, air pollution remains one of the biggest threats to India’s environment. Air pollution is a cross-sectoral problem with emissions originating from diverse sources. It is estimated that 96 percent of homes have at least one type of indoor air quality issue and it is a very common scenario in residences to find excessive dust to high humidity emissions from household cleaners or building materials.

Unlike in earlier years, the air that you breathe today is toxic due to increasing pollution. It can cause a number of respiratory diseases that can lead to serious or even fatal health issues. From smoke coming out of vehicles to crackers bursting during the festive season, there is absolutely no denying the fact that the air you breathe is heavily polluted. This polluted air is dangerous to breathe both outside and inside your home. Hence, it is crucial to filter the contaminated air with the use of the best Air Purifier for the home. An air purifier filters the air by removing every dangerous particle from an indoor space.

The best way to improve indoor air quality is through Air Purifiers. With the rising state of pollution, you can find dozens of brands offering the best air purifiers with advanced technological features, convenient operation, and exceptional filtration systems that can eliminate all kinds of viruses and bacteria in the air.

Room Size vs Clean Air Delivery Rate

There are a few crucial factors that need to be considered and one of them is the room size. It is always advisable to opt for a purifier that covers an area that exceeds the size of the room. Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) is the metric to measure the performance of the air purifier. It essentially means how quickly the air purifier cleans the air of an area while working at full speed. The higher the CADR value, the better the air purification. Therefore, a device with a higher CADR should be preferred for more efficient air filtration, if you have a bigger room. Like CADR, there is another metric named POLAR. It is a method that tests the working of an air purifier in real living spaces. The test ensures that the purifier mixes and circulates the clean air around the whole room, senses pollution automatically, and captures gases and ultrafine particles.

Air Change Rate

Air Change Rate measures the efficiency of the air purifier. It refers to the number of times an air purifier can clean the air of the entire room in an hour. A purifier with a 5 ACH (air change rate per hour) means it will clean the air five times an hour.

It is advisable to go for an air purifier with 5-6 ACH rating for air cleaning.

The Latest Innovation in Filters

One of the most widely used air purifiers contains HEPA filters. This filter comprises multi-layered meshes made of fine fiberglass threads, thinner than strands of hair. Typically, a virus dies in under 48 hours across a range of surfaces. These viruses prefer wet materials as they don’t survive well on dry materials. The HEPA filters inside most air purifiers are constantly bombarded with high-velocity air, which would dry out any virus. Technically the virus that causes COVID is approximately 0.125 microns (125 nanometers) in diameter and HEPA filters are capable of capturing them with an extraordinary efficiency of over 99.9%.

Ionizer-based Purifiers

Ionizer-based purifiers shoot out negative ions into the air. Those negative ions in the air cause the particles to stick to surfaces in the environment. But most ionizers are too weak to have an effect on particulate levels (PM 8) whereas the HEPA filters can capture particles from PM2.5 to PM10 and are less harmful when compared. One greater disadvantage with the ionizers is that human intervention on the surfaces could dislodge the particles and float them back into the air.

Advanced UV Light Technology

According to an expert study, the germs and the virus captured by the filters typically die after 48 hours on the filters’ surface itself. This amplified the need for a conventional air purifier to combine the technology that’s effective to kill the virus. And one such ongoing upgrade to the purifiers is the addition of UV light. The ultraviolet light purifiers collect and completely kill the microorganism, instead of filtering it through plates like regular air purifiers.

Smart Connectivity Features

Smart air purifiers come with features like air quality monitoring, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a programmable timer. Air quality sensors give real-time updates on the quality of indoor air. They can automatically turn On and Off, and adjust the speed of the fan based on the air quality conditions of the room.

Go for Wi-Fi-enabled air purifiers because these can be controlled from a distance via a smartphone. WiFi also lets users control their air purifiers via Alexa and Google Assistant. Through a programmable timer, users can set the timing on the purifier to run during specific periods of the day or night.

Air Purifier Brands

Aura Air Dyson

Aura Air is an IoT-based smartest air management platform that cleans and monitors the quality of one’s indoor air. Aura Air claims to kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria. This brand has also successfully cleared clinical trials confirming its effectiveness against the Corona virus. Aura Air is also in the process of getting certified by the Food and Drug Administration, USA. The IoT device connects to the phone via a built-in Wi-Fi radio and delivers realtime updates on the overall indoor and outdoor Air Quality Index (AQI) based on VOC, CO2, CO, and fine particulate matter levels.

Aura Air

Product Weight: 12.1 lbs/ 5.5 kg

Filter Type: Pre-Filter and RAY-FILTER™ with their patented HEPA Ray Filter. The UV-C LEDs and STERIONIZER™ release positive and negative ions to freshen up the space around you, and eliminate viruses, bacteria, and spores. SMART SENSORS detect and track particle concentrations, temperature changes, humidity levels, and other air quality factors, all while tracking outdoor air quality simultaneously.

Product Dimensions: 15 inch/15 inch/6inch by 37.5 cm/ 37.5 cm/ 15cm

Noise Level: 64 dB

Control Method: Via Android/iOS Mobile Apps for home users and web-based admin console for enterprise users. Smart controls via SIRI, Alexa and IFTTT.

Included Items: Power Adaptor, Wall Mounting Kit with reference jig

Power Source: 110-240V Power Adapter

Available Colours: Grey & White

Dyson’s new range of air purifiers reflects the latest technology in two core areas: Filtration and Acoustics. It captures H1N1 virus and 99.95% of particles as small as 0.1 microns such as allergens, bacteria, viruses, pollen, and mould spores, and is 20% quieter, without any compromise on purification performance to reduce unwanted noise at home. With Dyson Air Multiplier™ Technology, the machine can project purified air to every corner of the room. The machine’s auto mode enables the machine to maintain a preferred room temperature and air quality levels, while the machine can be entirely controlled by the Dyson Link App and activated by voice control.

Products Features:

Product Weight: 5.65 kg

Filter Type: Feature 360° Glass HEPA filter and Activated Carbon filter technology that eliminates suspended dust particles as small as PM 2.5

Product Dimensions: Width- 24.8 cm, Height-76.4 cm, Depth - 20.5 cm

Noise Level: About 40dB or lower noise

Control Method: Dyson Link App and activated by voice control

Included Items: 360° Glass HEPA filter and Activated Carbon filter (free) and Remote control

Power Source: Corded Electric

Available Colours: White/Silver

Havells Meditate Air Purifier Honeywell

Havells Meditate Air Purifier is powered by pioneering SpaceTech air purification technology developed inhouse that removes hazardous gaseous pollutants like CO, TVOC, Formaldehyde, SO2, NO2, O3, NH3 & Toluene etc. as well as pathogenic micro-organisms (bacteria, Viruses & fungal strains). The potable AQI monitor displays parameters like air quality, battery life, and fan speed and also acts like a remote for realtime air quality monitoring as well as controlling the device.

Havells Meditate Air Purifier

Product Weight: 5.65 kg

Filter Type: Feature 360° Glass HEPA filter and Activated Carbon filter technology that eliminates suspended dust particles as small as PM 2.5

Product Dimensions: Width- 24.8 cm, Height-76.4 cm, Depth - 20.5 cm

Noise Level: About 40dB or lower noise

Control Method: Dyson Link App and activated by voice control

Included Items: 360° Glass HEPA filter and Activated Carbon filter (free) and Remote control

Power Source: Corded Electric

Available Colours: White/Silver

Honeywell Air Touch U2 has a higher CADR, Coverage area and it is equipped with Pre-Filter, Anti-Bacterial Filter, High-Grade H13 HEPA filter, Cold Catalyst, Activated Carbon Filter, UV LED, Ionizer, and a Humidifier. It removes 99.99% of Micro Allergens and airborne Pollutants including PM10 and PM2.5. It has a CADR of up to 650 m3/h and a coverage area of up to 93.64 square meter. The 5 Stage Filtration process through Pre Filter, Anti-Bacterial Filter, High-Grade H13 HEPA Filter, Cold Catalyst, and Activated Carbon Filter with Humidifier to maintain ideal moisture levels in ambient air. It is equipped with UV LED and Ionizer to help kill harmful Bacteria. This air purifier is WI-FI enabled with Honeywell Air Touch App. It also has a filter life of up to 3000 hours. The Air Touch U2 are available in Value, Platinum, and Ultimate Series with a complete range of 7 models.

Brand Name: Honeywell

Product Name: Air Touch U2

Colour: White with Champagne Gold

Size: CADR of up to 650 m³/h with a coverage area of up to 93.64 square meters

Weight: 11.3kg

Control Method: Touch Panel, Remote Control and Wi-Fi enabled to operate through Smartphone by installing Honeywell Air Touch App from Google Play Store and Apple App Store

Style Name: Ultimate Series

KENT Alps+ UV Air Purifier Modicare Cuckoo Air Purifier

KENT Alps+ UV Air Purifier is an advanced Air Purifier with UV LED and purity indicator. The advanced HEPA filter removes 2.5 Particulate Matter and uses a 3-step mechanism for removing 99.97% of air pollutants, more than 0.3 microns in size. UV-LEDS emits a powerful light (also found in the sunlight spectrum) that creates such an environment where bacteria, viruses, and germs cannot live. Alps+ UV Air Purifier has this UV LED placed after the filters that kill all bacteria and viruses as the air passes through it. The process not just offers a cleaner indoor but eliminates the growth of allergies or other health hazards causing compounds such as pollens, mould spores, pet dander (flecks of skin shed by dogs or cats), and dust mites. It provides different timer settings of 2 Hours (Press Once), 4 Hours (Press Twice), and 6 Hours (Press Thrice). Also, there is a button that helps control the speed – Press Once for Low, Twice for Medium, and Thrice for High.

KENT ALPS+UV AIR PURIFIER

Product Weight: 8 Kilograms

Filter Type: Activated Carbon

Product Dimensions: 41D X 24.2W X 58H

Centimetres

Noise Level: 54 dB

Control Method: Touch

Included Items: Kent Alps+UV Air Purifier 1. NO and Warranty Card

Power Source: Corded Electric

Available Colours: White

Modicare Cuckoo Air Purifier comes with three levels of filtration to enable its users to breathe air as pure as nature throughout the day. The first level of filtration is the Pre-Filter which gets rid of dust and hair, while the second layer, the True HEPA Filter, eliminates up to 99.9% of airborne particles and allergens. The third level of filtration is the Active Carbon Filter which fights off unpleasant odors and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). The Modicare Cuckoo Air Purifier is also equipped with UV LED which produces UV-C type rays, neutralizing airborne bacteria and viruses. It is portable with a built-in handle and has an innovative control panel, child lock, and automatic fan speed control. It has Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 329.23 m3/hr., covering an area of up to 550 square feet. The AirPurifier comes with Air Quality Sensor indicating real-time air quality with 3-colored LED lighting.

Modicare Cuckoo Air Purifier

Product Weight: 4.6kg

Filter Type: Pre-Filter, True HEPA Filter, Active Carbon Filter

Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 11.9 x 19.6 inch

Noise Level: <= 61dB

Control Method: No tethering app

Included Items: Power Cord Charger

Power Source: AC100-240V, 50Hz/60Hz

Available Colours: White

Philips Air Purifiers

Zunpulse Smart Air Purifier

Philips Air Purifiers have Vitashield Intelligent Purification that automatically senses air quality and removes 99.97% airborne pollutants as small as 0.003 microns, 800 times smaller than PM 2.5. They are equipped with fast purification in just 12 minutes with a CADR of 270 m3/hour. It provides feedback through four-colour air quality indicator. Removes 99.9% bacteria and viruses, tested to remove airborne H1N1 virus. It also adjusts the light levels of the device according to the light in the room in Night Mode.

Product Name: Philips AC1215/20

Product Weight: 5.2 kg

Filter Type: HEPA, Carbon and Pre-Filter

Product Dimensions: 325 *210 * 543

Noise Level: 17-50dB

Control Method: Manual speed settings: 5 (Sleep, Speed 1, 2, 3, Turbo), Auto mode

Included items: Smart sensors for intelligent purification, Fast purification suitable for rooms of up to 32 m², Sleep mode with ultra-quiet operation, Smart light control, real-time air quality display

Power Source: 5-watt power supply required

Available Colours: White

Zunpulse Smart Air Purifier, inhale pure air with the help of easy control by your smartphone. Track the air quality index of your room and easily share and revoke access to the smart device as per convenience using the Zunpulse App. Zunpure Smart Air Purifier removes particulate matter and harmful bacteria besides other functionalities that make it ‘smart’. This smart air purifier is an IoT-based smart device that can connect to your smartphone via Wi-Fi and can be controlled through an App. Besides purifying the air it also lets you schedule power On and Off. It also allows live AQI. The Zunpure Smart Air Purifier comes with Wi-Fi connectivity so that it can connect to your smartphone. It works best with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and a decent internet connection.

Zunpure Smart Air Purifier

Product Dimensions: 325mm x 172mm x 551mm; Weight: 5kg;

Rated Voltage: 220V-240V~

Filter Types: Smart 3-layer filtration process, composite carbon + HEPA filter that can be controlled from your phone.

Remember, buying an air purifier is crucial today, especially if you reside in a heavily polluted city. It can help you and your family breathe cleaner air inside, keeping all at bay from serious health issues of asthma and other respiratory diseases.

Smart Home Expo 2023: Bigger and Better with Tech Exhibition and more…

The countdown begins for Smart Home Expo 2023, India’s largest Smart Home Technology event. This year, Smart Home Expo 2023, will be held on May 4, 5, and 6, 2023 at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, India

For those few who missed the event last year, the third edition was a great success, with a record-breaking 12000+ visitors. With more technology brands and exhibitors, visitors, live demos, an experience zone, new product launches, innovations, and technical seminars. This year the Smart Home Expo 2023 will also feature curated events such as - Smart Home Tech Talk, Lighting Connect, AV Forum, Smart Building Summit, and System Integrators Forum.

Smart Home Expo is India’s largest comprehensive trade show and conference to showcase Smart Home Technology from across the globe. Over 200+ brands take part every year to demonstrate game-changing Smart Home Technology, Home Automation, AudioVideo, Consumer Electronics, Lighting and exciting technologies.

What is new at Smart Home Expo 2023

Lighting Connect

Lighting Connect is delighted to announce its partnership with the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD). Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Chicago, the IALD is a scholarly society of architectural lighting designers. Our joint venture presents a distinctive opportunity for lighting professionals to engage in thought-provoking discussions centered around the latest technologies that are poised to revolutionize the lighting industry. We extend a cordial invitation to participate in Lighting Connect 2023, a concurrent event taking place during the Smart Home Expo 2023 at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. Join us for an enlightening experience and position yourself at the forefront of the future of lighting.

Smart Building Summit

As the future of the global Building Automation System sector is intertwined with the green economy, sustainability, energy-efficiency, and healthy living. We have launched the Smart Building Summit 2023 with Co-organiser INBAC Association. Smart Building Summit is an event you need to attend on May 5, 2023 at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, India if you want to see the most innovative and progressive technologies designed to revolutionize the Building Automation Industry!

KNX Pavilion

The forthcoming edition of the Smart Home Expo will feature an exclusive pavilion dedicated to KNX, which is an open standard for building automation in both commercial and residential settings. KNX devices enable the management of various functionalities such as lighting, blinds and shutters, HVAC, security systems, energy management, audio-video systems, white goods, displays, and remote control, among others. Manufacturers of KNX products will showcase their offerings in this pavilion. Moreover, the KNX Association will organize an IoT challenge and conduct manufacturers workshops during the event.

Smart Home Tech Talk

Smart Home Tech Talk is proud to present over 70 speakers from leading smart home companies, system integrators, design and build professionals, who will share their insights on the latest advancements in smart home technology, home automation, and consumer electronics segments. Our event offers a unique platform for participants to gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest trends, industry best practices, and emerging technologies that are shaping the future of the smart home ecosystem. With our diverse range of speakers, attendees can look forward to in-depth discussions and a wealth of knowledge-sharing opportunities. We invite you to join us for Smart Home Tech Talk and broaden your understanding of the current and future landscape of smart home technology.

AV Forum

In today’s homes, Audio-Video has become an integral and indispensable component. From the simple act of having various speakers distributed throughout the house to the immersive experience of a home cinema setup, the advancements in residential audio-video systems have revolutionized the way we interact with entertainment technology in our homes. At our event, we will discuss everything that is happening in the residential audio-video segment, covering the latest technological advancements and emerging trends. We welcome you to join us for an enlightening event where we will explore the latest developments in residential audio-video systems and gain an understanding of how these advancements are reshaping our home entertainment experience.

Professional take on Smart Home Expo

Architects and interior designers design their buildings and smart homes, based on a market study of available materials and technologies. Smart Home Expo 2022 brought together new and smart technologies, and latest innovations, displayed various tools of Smart Home automation, like smart lighting, security system, home automation, etc. and provided valuable information to Architects, interior designers and system Integrates.

The Smart Home Expo is a great platform to observe the latest trends and innovations in home automation. From smart doorbells to 4K projectors, the Smart Homes Expo offered interesting perspectives on products and services that provide homeowners security, comfort, convenience and energy efficiency. In this fast-growing world, so much is available to improve our lives and everyday experience, and we as designers must incorporate and indulge with these Smart ideas.

Rahul

presented at the expo not only bring credibility to has bridged the gap between the automation and understanding of each other's views and exploring

Harsh Mehta, Managing Partner, Future Automation

I always felt excited and energized about attending the Smart Home Expo. The opportunity to explore the latest trends and technologies in the smart home industry was truly thrilling. I felt a sense of curiosity as well, wondering what new developments I might discover and how they could enhance my business offerings. Aside from connecting with industry friends and occasionally generating business leads, the greatest advantage of Smart Home Expo lies in gaining insight into the direction of the industry. For instance, if more OEMs are showcasing color tuning in lighting controls, it indicates that color tuning is likely to be a significant focus area in the future.

Attending the Smart Home Expo in India is not just an option, but a necessity for system integrators and equipment suppliers. It's where the dots connect and the future of the industry is shaped.

Mistri, Founder & Principal Designer at Open Atelier Mumbai.

Sawan Nichani, Founder, Macbee (India)

Alok Hada, MD at Anusha Technovision

I look forward to visiting Smart Home Expo 2023 again to catch up with new trends and innovations for Smart Technology and

Smart Home Expo is a wonderful platform that brings together like-minded professionals from the industry and acts as a knowledge-sharing network platform. Keep up the good job!

Alhad Gore, Principal Architect, Beyond Design Architects & Consultants

The Smart Home expo is the best focused event for the future of smart technologies. It is a single point location showcasing the latest innovations in the Smart Home industry, Futuristic home solutions, Energy Saving, Audio Video, and more. It’s a great platform to meet like minded individuals and share experiences with each other for new learning.

Smart Home Expo 2022 was an eye-opener. Some of the National and International brands displayed Smart stuff for smart homes. I am looking forward to attending this event.

Conrad Gonsalves, Interior Designer

Ar. Premnath, Prem Nath And Associates

Ar. Tannvi Jagtap, Chief Architect, Reliance Industries Ltd.

FLASHBACK

PARTNERS

EXHIBITING BRANDS

To receive an admission pass, visitors must first register online at https://www.smarthomeexpo.in/visitor-registration.php.

ISE 2023: A Trendsetting Tech Show

ISE 2023 is one of the world’s leading audiovisual and systems integration exhibition. This year it broke all its previous records in many arenas right from the recording highest footfalls in terms of visitors to new brands and support of political dignitaries at the Fira Gran Via Barcelona. Read on to know more.

The recently concluded ISE 2023 showcased the latest technology in Residential and Smart Building Zone. ISE has been considered a leading event for residential solutions and home automation, with the backing of joint partner CEDIA.

Sharing his views on the response received Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events, said, “It’s been an extraordinary week and it’s hugely gratifying for us to look back and realise we’ve delivered an exceptional show for our industry and the wonderful city of Barcelona. We’ve had unprecedented visitor levels to the show, so much inspiring content and features on display, and ground-breaking visits from the King of Spain, and the President of Catalonia to add both a royal and a political seal of approval to the show. This week at ISE 2023 confirms that we can safely say the global AV and systems integration industry is back with an impressive bang!”

The first day of the show set the tone with the highest number of opening day visitors ever for an ISE show, visiting the record 56,870 sqm of floorspace over the show’s 6 halls and the Audio Demo Rooms, where iconic French pioneer of electronic music Jean-Michel Jarre unveiled his latest album. The trend continued for the rest of the week with a final total of 58,107 attendees to ISE, making 133,606 visits to the show floor. On the first day, King Felipe VI of Spain took a tour of the show floor stopping by a few booths to take in a small sample of the technology on display. The Royal Party was accompanied by Ada Colau, Mayor of Barcelona, Núria Marín, Mayor of L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Laia Bonet, 3rd Deputy Mayor of Barcelona. Pere Aragones, President of the

Government of Catalonia also visited ISE and took time to visit some of the 70 Catalan-based companies exhibiting at the Gran Via, Fira Barcelona this week.

One of the highlights of the show was the new Content Production and Distribution zone offering a blend of creativity and technical solutions the new zone provided inspiration for integrators and endusers in this fast-growing and exciting area.

Smart Building Conference dedicated to Residential & Smart Building Zone offered the latest in the fast-moving area of AV technology. Keeping in mind consumer demand for connected systems and services in the home is increasing by the day and has been accelerating as a result of the global pandemic. The last couple of years has seen a real expansion in the trend for technologies to facilitate working from home. Robust and secure Wi-Ficonnected spaces that can serve as the home office, home entertainment and home security system are in demand.

As such, the home is now a multi-functional space that provides comfort, rest, and relaxation, a secure and practical home office, a learning environment, a cinema, a gaming room, and a fitness suite.

Some of the major names present in the Residential & Smart Building Zone at ISE 2023 include Presenting Show Partner KNX which was joined on its stand by other KNX Partner companies. KNX as the Presenting Show Partner for the 4th year in a row had various segments on display that included Meet the KNX experts where they handled Q&A from professionals. This section provided a perfect opportunity for professionals to discuss projects and

find solutions to any challenges they face in their projects.

Heinz Lux, CEO, KNX Association discussed how KNX now enables third-party services with KNX, which adds new business possibilities for manufacturers and professionals. He spoke on how KNX IoT will take advantage of an IP future, a more robust cloud, and progress in artificial intelligence (AI). He further said, “The new KNX IoT technology perfectly adapts to these new scenarios and will help our community in developing and delivering future solutions based on trends such as AI, machine learning, or deep learning solutions based on KNX.”

There was a special segment on KNX IoTech Forum and KNX IoT API Client development workshop and the KNX Startup Pavilion. To support startup companies to grow in the market of Home and Building automation, KNX Association announced the KNX startup incubator program, which provides resources and visibility to startup companies committed to developing KNX IoT-based solutions. This workshop covered the following topics: Introduction to the KNX Community & Technology, Technology Insights on Business Highlights on Current Startups etc.

KNX Technology was showcased by various brands. Gira showed the Pushbutton Sensor 4 that can change its orientation and is now available in different colours; Qbic Technology offered the Luminen family of smart control touch panels with a broad range of connectivity including KNX twisted pair; URC displayed control using KNX and its range of remote controllers, and Basalte showed an elegant freestanding speaker, the Aalto F5, as part of the KNXbased Basalte Home System. Lithe Audio showed KNX-compatible ceiling speakers, whilst Jung had its new LS Touch swipeable touch controller on display, as well as KNX wired and RF pushbuttons, motion

sensors, actuators, the Smart Control 8 touchpanels and the Smart Visu Server for visualisation. There was also a circular KNX-compatible wall controller from Tyba on show, which allows turn, swipe, and touch operation for control of climate, lights, shading, and audio.

Educative Series

CEDIA offered over 65 hours of professional development within its four-day conference, covering topic areas such as technical installation and design, business excellence, and future trends; all through the lens of home technology integration. This conference covered a wide range of industry trends like wellness, hospitality, and assisted living, as well as hot topics like gaming, AI, and slow technology. These courses will challenge integrators to creatively incorporate tomorrow’s needs into today’s businesses to achieve sustainable profits.

CEDIA’s technical courses featured a four-course deep dive into designing, implementing, and managing bass in private entertainment spaces, as well as a halfday RP22 Audio and Room Design Recommended Practice Workshop focusing on objective levels of performance that define the immersive experience. Also, on offer were courses to enhance your networking skills covering infrastructure and cabling for the modern home, timing-aware networks, Wi-Fi 6 and Power Over Ethernet.

CEDIA’s business courses ensured attendees had the right mindset and processes in place to set their businesses up for success. From overcoming recruitment challenges and managing subcontractors to creating a break-even analysis, they were given the tools to keep their business successful and profitable.

An Overview of The Innovative Range

Samsung’s latest technologies demonstrate its commitment to a more sustainable future, on display to visitors. The company introduced a new solution, exclusive for the ‘Samsung Flip,’ meeting the demand of both educators and businesses to be connected to various devices simultaneously. It enables users to bring the content or applications in their PC to the Flip by connecting a PC with the Flip. Especially, users can write over content brought from their PC on the screen of Flip and share in real-time. The new solution enhances usability for remote work and provides a seamless work environment by allowing users to optimise and utilize the screen to connect with other device screens

RTI one of leading control and automation manufacturer celebrated its 30 years of technology at ISE with the theme of “one platform, unlimited opportunities,” the company highlighted the flexibility of its Integration Designer 11 programming platform to deliver exceptional control for both residential and commercial projects. Additionally, RTI’s new driver library offers more options than ever for home and business owners to connect to devices and systems. The new KX4 in-wall touch panel with a built-in processor was displayed.

Of particular interest to residential integrators was the “Coral” template, with pre-configured home pages, swappable backgrounds, customizable scroll bars across the touchscreens, and new fonts. While Coral delivers an interface that is exciting for homeowners, integrators benefit from the auto-programming that adds efficiency to every project.

Lighting control pioneer Lutron showcased the newest in lighting, blind, and temperature control. Lutron also displayed additions to its luxury category bespoke finishing, following customer demands for elevated aesthetics. Expanding in the luxury category they launched the Palladiom Keypad and Thermostat range in a new Antique Brass finish. The company has partnered with UK-based designer of electrical wiring accessories Focus- SB Lutron. They also launched additional finishes for Palladiom blinds, and new aesthetic options across several styles, such as sheer fabrics, more colour options, and wood slats for venetian blinds. The company has also made technological improvements to its most popular drive, the Roller 64, by making it even more quiet.

The Focal & Naim booth showcased many flagship products on display from the Home and Professional ranges. They had two demo rooms that showcased Focal1000 Series loudspeakers and new products from Naim Audio. They had a dedicated space for outdoor products that showcase the Littora products. The iconic Grande Utopia EM Evo loudspeakers were on display at the booth, alongside with statement amplifier.

Crestron continued with their innovation with the Crestron Home® OS experience. The PC4-R is the latest addition to the Crestron Home Processor lineup. It provides a powerful Dell® microcomputer that comes pre-installed with the Crestron Home OS, secured and ready for operation right out of the box. Crestron DM NVX® AV-over-IP and DM NAX™ Audio-over-IP technology facilitate seamless transitions from room to room or power a cohesive ambiance throughout the whole home. The latest addition to the lineup is the DM NAX AMP-X300, a two-zone amp and Crestron’s most compact offering so far, which debuted on the show floor. This solution provides a flexible and scalable solution with a more granular system configuration, packing an extremely powerful solution into a spacesaving size.

Sonance launched its new, attractively-priced Sonarray landscape audio system for outdoor use. The all-in-one offering comprises eight SR1 satellites, each sporting a 3.5-inch anodised aluminium driver, and an 8-inch dual voice-coil underground subwoofer. The system is designed to distribute audio in outdoor spaces up to 185 sqm. Typically placed beneath shrubs and amid the foliage, it installs in a daisy-chain configuration, with the subwoofer connected to both channels.

Habitech also showcased the Sonance Landscape Series (SLS) High Output (HO) system.

Basalte launches Adelante their new luxury door phone for Basalte Home. The Door Phone is sophisticated, sleek and available in high-quality finishes, Adelante is more than a door phone. It’s an architectural design statement of your home, completely customisable to reflect your aesthetics and to match our full product line.

NICE Group, Elan showcased the SC-100 System Controller that helps professional integrator’s ability to service smaller installations or scenarios where singlepoint control is required for the control of media devices, climate systems, or lighting systems. The new system controller provides control options for IP, RS-232 and IRenabled devices.

Snap One showcased new solutions debuting for the first time internationally across the control, lighting, audio, power, and surveillance categories. Notable new products on display include Control4 Vibrant Lighting, Control4 Halo Remotes, Episode Radiance Audio and Lighting System, Luma x20 Surveillance, IP-Enabled Wattbox Solutions, and the latest updates to OvrC and the OvrC Ecosystem.

PRESSRELEASE

M&K Sound unveils IW150A versatile in-ceiling and in-wall home cinema loudspeaker

C SEED displayed the world’s first foldable 144inch MicroLED TV. The C SEED 144 and 201 HLR TVs are hidden in their compartment box, waiting for activation by a simple push of a button on the remote control. With a fully automated opening, C SEED HLR TV takes 60 seconds to rise to its height of 2.5 meters and the kinematics of five /seven massive MicroLED panels unfold equally soundlessly within the next 45 seconds forming a seamless and unique outdoor TV experience. The display can be rotated 90 left and right or 180⁰ only one direction. With the same ease, HLR TV submerges into the compartment box for space-saving storage when not in use, allowing space to be used multifunctionally.

M&K Sound builds out its legendary 150 Series with a powerful solution for immersive audio height channels and multiple in-wall applications

COPENHAGEN Denmark September 27th, 2022 - M&K Sound, manufacturer of the finest loudspeakers and subwoofers and whose products are the “choice of professionals”, has announced the availability of the IW150A in-ceiling and in-wall loudspeaker. A brand-new addition to the company’s awardwinning 150 Series, the IW150A speaker perfectly complements new or existing audio setups as a discreet in-ceiling or in-wall solution for immersive and object-based audio in home cinemas and media rooms.

Although based on the performance specifications of the original M&K Sound S150 LCR (left/center/right) loudspeaker, the IW150A includes a 15-degree fixed angled tweeter and 5.7-degree fixed angle pair of woofers, which produce generous off-axis response characteristics. These make the IW150A ideal for use as a height channel for Dolby Atmos®, DTS:X® or Auro3D® audio setups. The speaker can also function as an angled down- or angled up-firing front LCR speaker where real-world placement options are limited (i.e. above or below a flat-panel display), or as an in-wall or in-ceiling based surround or music speaker.

M&K Sound the manufacturer of the finest loudspeakers and subwoofers launched the IW150A in-ceiling and inwall loudspeaker. A brand-new addition to the company’s award-winning 150 Series, can also function as an angled down- or angled up-firing front LCR speaker where real-world placement options are limited (i.e. above or below a flat-panel display), or as an in-wall or in-ceilingbased surround or music speaker. The new loudspeaker deploys two of the 150 Series’ identical 5.25-inch coated glass fiber woofers and one of its 1.1-inch coated silk dome tweeters.

Like the full suite of loudspeaker models making up M&K Sound’s 150 Series, the IW150A can produce reference level film audio and sound pressure levels (SPL) in rooms of up 3,000 cubic feet (85 cubic meters). Additionally, the new loudspeaker deploys two of the 150 Series’ identical 5.25-inch coated glass fibre woofers and one of its 1.1-inch coated silk dome tweeters. This commonality of components enables seamless and perfect timbre-matching with the rest of the 150 Series and all of M&K Sound’s loudspeaker portfolio.

URC, a global leader in smart home automation and control, expands its certified Apple TV voice and IP integration with MRX-12 and MRX-5. Certified integrations with Google Nest Climate Control and Ring video doorbells are also rolling out. The TDC-5100, a gaming-inspired touch screen and handheld, is launched along with highfidelity audio solution HDA. URC also adds a new handheld remote, MX-1400, to the Complete Control product line. These innovations make URC an excellent choice for smart home and commercial environments, with hundreds of established integrations including Unified KNX Shades, Unified Lutron Shades, Vantage Lighting, B&O TVs, Updated KNX, GUDE PDU, Shelly IoT Products, ZeeVee Zyper, and more.

StormAudio a global leader in high-quality, innovative, and immersive sound processors and amplifiers, as the exclusive launch partner of Dirac’s new Active Room Treatment, demonstrated how revolutionary this technology is enabling better bass management with fewer subwoofers. They displayed two new products: the ISP Evo and the ISR Fusion. The ISP Evo is a fully digital sound processor. Based on StormAudio’s proprietary modular platform, the ISP Evo has maintained a reputation for modularity and flexibility with multiple hardware and software options available for any type of digital installation.

ISE 2023 showcased new brands and technology and ended on a very positive note.

Energy Efficient and Aesthetic Lighting Solutions

Ashish Thakkar offers a customized lighting solution for Kalidas

Banquet that not only improves the ambiance but also uses less energy.

For projects in the hospitality industry, a variety of lighting design skills are required in order to deliver different functional levels and to reproduce distinct ambiances that would create the ideal backdrop for the events. Ar. Dharti Gandhi and Lighting Consultant Ashish Thakkar contributed their skills to the design of the Kalidas Banquet in Mulund, Mumbai, to ensure that each area has a unique atmosphere and adaptability. Client Dhanraj Khona gave Ashish Thakkar instructions to design a banquet hall with a lively atmosphere and glare-free lighting suited for weddings, sangeet, and other events.

Lighting Technology Adopted

Explaining the finer nuances of the lighting technology adopted for this project Lighting Consultant Ashish Thakkar, said, “For this banquet spread over an area of 13,000 sq. ft. area, we opted for Human Centric Lighting solution, where more than 300 lights are completely CCT Tunable from 2700k to 6500k and Dimmable from 5% to 100%. All lights are working on most advanced DALI (DT-8) drivers whereas the controlling system used is ABB on KNX platform.”

To create a glare-free ambience the team has worked towards providing the appropriate solution by using DALI lights with CCT Tunable LED from 25w to 35w individual fixtures with a controlled beam angle of 2x20 Degree (40 Degree) and UGR (Unified Glare Rating) is less than 15 Advanced Glare free Optics from Bartenbach (Austria) are used to provide

Ashish Thakkar

uniform and glare-free ambiance. The designer has opted for a lighting fixture with a wide beam but deeply recessed reflector luminaire and special optic to provide uniform lighting in the area. Focus lights are used to support the right product matching all the technical requirements and matching performance.

Energy-Saving Dimmers and Sensors

ABB controllers are used to optimise energy consumption and multiple scenes are created based on the event. “We have created the scene even for `Cleaning and Decoration’, so whenever the team is preparing for an event and doing Mandap decoration, we switch Off all decorative lights and all technical lights are ON at 70% intensity with 6500k colour temperature. Which saves 50% of energy,” explains Ashish Thakkar. The new controls and multiple light programming integrated into different areas are the Human Centric lights, which can be controlled from 2,700k to 6,500k based on client events and individual requirements. There is a

touch screen that has 24 different scenes and a keypad with 10 scene controls.

In terms of energy efficiency, they have created tailored-made solutions where 100% of lights used are LED with a High Lumen Efficiency of more than 90 lumens per watt. We have used CREE chip LED, DALI (DT-8) drivers and FULHAM. Plus, 23 kilowatt of the lighting load is controlled by a touch of a button with an advanced KNX-based ABB controller which gives smooth control and maintenance-free long life to lighting.

As the Big Lotus design structure was built between the ceiling and floor, the biggest issue the design team encountered was avoiding shadows on the floor. There were eight large, long, and sixteen short metal buildings, and it was entirely separated into four halves. There were three separate ceiling heights for the Main Dome area, which was 25 feet, the Stage area, which was 16 feet, and the Sitting area, which was 12 feet. So, the challenge was providing uniform lighting across the space. The team adopted the shadow overlapping approach with a 40-degree beam angle reflector and planned the lighting location so that it does not block the metal construction. Different wattages of light were employed for different ceiling heights to keep the Lux level consistent throughout the area.

Overall, the team has successfully provided customized lighting solutions to fulfil the client’s various requirements.

Project: Kalidas Banquet

Location: Mulund west, Mumbai

Client : Dhanraj Khona

Architect: Dharti Gandhi

Lighting Consultant: Ashish Thakkar

Electrical Contractor: Vinal Dand

Lighting Manufacturer: Focus Lighting

Automation System Used: ABB KNX

Automation Integrator: Kamlesh Vithlani

Lighting Brands or Types of Lighting: NICHIA and CREE LED with BARTENBACH

Optic

Hardware Used: DALI (DT-8)

Networking Devices used: KNX with DALI (DT-8)

Supporting Software: KNX SOFTWARE

Wired system or Wireless system: wired system with touch panel and keypad

The Den –Creates a Surrealistic Experience for the Visitors.

The Den – an AV Experience Centre located in Worli, Mumbai designed by Ar. Khushboo and Kunal Khandelwal aesthetically displays an exclusive range of Audio-Video brands.

For those few who are not aware of The Den, they are Technology Consultants specializing in the area of Audio-Video & Acoustics. They specialize in intelligent home technology solutions with the end user’s needs in mind, working either with customers directly or with architects and interior designers, right from the initial stages of construction. They offer their expertise in Custom Home Cinema, Multiroom Audio/ Video, Home Automation and Security, Intelligent Lighting Controls and Commercial AV. They are also an esteemed member of CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association), and also have THX Certified professionals working towards offering the best performance for the equipment.

This studio was conceptualized as a series of visitor experience spaces, where a customer could visualize and recreate a similar experience in their personal space. Adding more insight on the experience centre Pawan Sahjwani, Owner of The Den says, “We have a full-blown experience centre where we display various types of AV solutions under one roof – whether it is in the wall, on the ceiling, sub-satellite, floor standing, wireless solutions etc. We have a specially dedicated cinema and listening room for clients to experience all this under one roof and make an informed decision based on their requirements.”

This is the only exclusive showroom in Mumbai that displays the entire range of B&O, Devialet & Sonos products.

Design Concept

Spread over an area of 1,900 sq ft., the entire space is separated into different functional zones like a discussion space, a speaker room, a stereo room, a home theatre room, two cabins for the directors, a staff area, a pantry, toilets, server room and a store room.

The experience centre is defined through layering the interior shell – a neutral colour palate on the walls and ceiling, lined textures, a Mondrian-inspired glass framework wall juxtaposed with a copper-finished surface, and Art collectables as a graphic display – all letting the AV systems be invisible whilst letting the visitor experiences come to the forefront.

“We approached this design with a fresh perspective – not thinking just about how it would look but more about how we wanted the visitor to feel, what moods we could create through different AV setups, how these moods can alter the emotions of the person occupying them. Unlike a regular design brief for a commercial space, this became an exercise in creating a design through the varied possible emotions a person can experience through the power of AV settings and Automation – how AI has the capacity to take out the alter ego of a person,” explains Kunal Khandelwal Principal Architects, Design Inc.

The project was an exercise in not just creating spaces but setting up different moods and visitor experiences. It involved getting into the psyche of a person who wants to understand these experiences at the AV studio and recreate them in his own personal space.

Adding insight on the challenges faced Kunal adds, “We decided to use this to our effect to create the experience centre as a “mancave” – putting in strong visual elements and textures – a palate of steel grey, black and Corten steel combined with powerful collectables as art. The emphasis was to be able to create different moods and scenarios in various spaces – loner, group, dark, bright, family etc…. dark, dim, happy, silent, and party.”

A long corridor leads you into the experience centre. One length of the corridor is an Asian paint copper Corten steel paint textured wall which conceals the staff and service areas behind it. This is balanced with a stark Mondrian-inspired ribbed glass and black member wall of the cabins.

A black and white slatted envelope runs through the main experience area – with Asian paints concrete grey and Corten steel paint textured walls used to define seating areas. A patchy grey flooring from Nitco balances the space. Heavily framed collectable art of sports, music and movies form an important part of the compositions of the walls.

The Home Theatre Room – is a visual treat with yellow, grey and black acoustic panels on the walls, a grey floor and a black ceiling. Speakers are concealed within these panels to create different effects for the visitor. This area is especially dedicated to display the products that go into creating a Home Theatre Room which includes

11.1.4 Dolby Atmos speakers and subwoofers from Procella Audio, Amplification from Procella Audio & Audio Control,Anthem AVM 70 Dolby Atmos AV Processor, Sim2 Multimedia Nero 4S 4K Projector, Screen Research Fixed Frame Acoustic Transparent Screen, Recliners from Recliner India, Room Acoustics done by Munro Acoustics and Reavon Blu Ray Player. The Listening Room has been designed for solitary listening and pure sound effects. A lone white chair on an acoustic rug is surrounded by speakers of varied kinds on a dark olive wall with a single red cushion for company. The experience area leads into a small meeting room, defined by the collectable art and the TV which serves as an art panel. Here they have displayed B &W 800 Series with Lyngdorf Audio amps + PMC bookshelves with Cambridge Audio amplification.

Tracking lighting systems in the ceiling in all the spaces allow for light positions to be altered and the moods to be changed in each space. Kunal explains, “Designing this

experience centre was in plain words – interesting and super fun – delving into the minds of the visitor, looking into how AV settings can have such powerful effects on a person’s emotions and moods, and how this equipment can transform a simple space. Exploring a whole new kind of collectable art – from the personal collection of the client added to the fun and quirky element of the idea of the Mancave. We as architects got a deeper insight into the working of this AV experience for future clients also.”

Favourite areas: One of our favourite parts of this space is the Central Seating Area. Deep Blue hued sofas, on a richly patterned carpet, occupy the space against a grey concrete textured wall framed with collectables – of music, sport and movies in rich panelled frames. This is further juxtaposed with a copper textured wall with heavy AV equipment. A powerful statementmaking red lamp acts as the connector between both seating spaces. Each element in this space has been clearly thought out with a strong practical and visual purpose – coming together and calling out to the male alter ego.

Here they displayed the entire range of B&O, Devialet, Sonos, B&W, Dali, Martin Logan, James Loudspeakers, SVS Subwoofers. As for electronics they have Cambridge Audio, Musical fidelity, Roksan, Lyngdorf Audio, Anthem on Demo.

A visit to this interactive experience centre is a must for those who want to recreate similar experience in their personal zone.

FACT FILE - THE DEN LOCATION: Mumbai, Maharashtra AREA: 2000 sqft

CONCEPT & INTERIOR DESIGN: Design Inc

- Khushboo and Kunal Khandelwal

DESIGN TEAM: Devanshi Rathod, Kunal Khandelwal

CONTRACTOR: Manoj Mistry

LIGHTING: Scoop

FURNITURE: DeFurn & Design Democracy

ART AND ACCESSORIES: Courtesy The Den

HOME AUTOMATION: Raylogic

SOUND AND AV: The Den

ACOUSTIC CONSULTANT: Kapil Thirwani from Munro Acoustics

STEREO CONSULTANT - Khushrau JhillaNexus Audio Video

PHOTOGRAPHIC CREDITS: PHXIndia

Switch Up Your Home’s Décor with eGlu’s Newly Launched Handcrafted Leather Scene Controller Switches

eGlu Smart Homes is a leading provider of comprehensive smart home solutions catering to the growing demand for automation in homes. The company offers over thirty products across various categories such as lighting, safety & security, and appliance automation. With a strong presence in 23 states in India and the United Arab Emirates, eGlu has emerged as a trusted and reliable provider of smart home solutions.

The latest addition to the eGlu family is the eGlu Touch. This cutting-edge scene controller switch, expertly crafted from premium leather, seamlessly laces innovative engineering with captivating design.

The launch of the Touch marks a significant milestone for eGlu, delivering an unbeatable combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Meticulously crafted with precision and care, this battery-powered, handcrafted leather scene switch seamlessly blends technology and artistry, elevating any room with its sophisticated design. The eGlu Touch offers unparalleled control over a user’s smart home devices, making it an essential addition to any modern home.

Since its inception in 2013, eGlu has been focusing on offering affordable and user-friendly solutions for homeowners seeking to retrofit their homes with smart

home features. However, with the growing demand for smart home technology and increasing adoption by home builders in new construction projects, eGlu has expanded its services to offer tailored smart home solutions for new homes. Working closely with builders, developers, and end-customers, eGlu provides customizable and energy-efficient smart home solutions that seamlessly integrate into new homes. Through years of research and development, eGlu has developed an array of innovative products, including the eGlu Touch, which exemplifies the perfect blend of design and technology.

The eGlu Touch is not only versatile but also exquisite in its craftsmanship. It is made with the finest exportquality leather sourced from top factories in the country, complete with natural grain, which gives it a premium feel. The switch comes in four distinct colors and offers three stainless ring options that come with multiple coatings, allowing users to customize their switch to best match their interior decor. Its unique design allows for it to be placed on a tabletop or screwed or taped to a wall, making it an ideal addition to any smart home. With its unparalleled combination of form and function, the eGlu Touch is truly a masterpiece of smart home technology. Additionally, users have the option to select from eight different leather and ring combinations that best match their interior decor, providing them with the ability to customize their environment according to their preferences.

“We are excited to introduce the eGlu Touch to the world,” said eGlu Smart Home’s CEO - Mr. Amit Premy. “These switches are more than just functional devices; they are works of art that seamlessly blend form and function to create a truly unique and luxurious user experience.” With its unparalleled functionality and aesthetic appeal, the eGlu Touch is a true testament to eGlu’s unwavering commitment to innovation, exceptional craftsmanship, and design.

In summary, eGlu’s newly launched handcrafted leather scene controller switches are an exquisite addition

to any home. From their luxurious feel to their smart functionality, these switches are an exceptional creation of design and engineering. This level of integration and versatility asserts eGlu’s dedication to creating products that seamlessly fit into the modern smart home ecosystem.

The eGlu Touch is now available for pre-order. Don’t miss the chance to experience the future of smart home control with the world’s first movable handcrafted leather scene controller switch. For more information on the eGlu Touch:

Website: www.myeglu.com | Email: insidesales@ myeglu.com | Tel: 1800 202 6995 |

Address: Unit No: 102, Regent Prime, 42, Whitefield Main Rd, Sathya Sai Layout, Whitefield, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560066.

CEDIA Announces 2023 CEDIA Smart Home Awards

CEDIA, the global membership association for the home technology industry, has announced the opening of the 2023 CEDIA Smart Home Awards (formerly, CEDIA Awards).

The new title aligns with CEDIA’s mission to increase awareness of CEDIA and the industry among consumers and allied trades. Additional changes to the program include a new Health, Sustainability or Wellness Project category and redefined level definitions in the Best Integrated Home category based on CEDIA’s market research.

The Best Integrated Home category now includes:

• Mass Market Integration: A project in a home with value near the average sales price for the area

Mid-Market Integration: A project in a home with value well above the average sales price for the area but not considered part of the luxury market

• Luxury Integration: A project in a home located within a small subset of homes and estates in the most desirable areas

• Uber Luxury Integration: A project in a home located within a rare collection of the area’s most elite

These new and expanded categories join ten others in the Home Technology Integrator Project portion of the CEDIA Smart Home Awards. The Manufacturer Product Awards are also accepting submissions for Best New Product (Hardware or Software) and Product Hall of Fame. The CEDIA Smart Home Awards will continue to recognize the industry’s most active volunteers and leaders through the Volunteer of the Year Awards, CEDIA Fellows and the Lifetime Achievement Award.

“The CEDIA Smart Home Awards are truly a mark of excellence in our industry,” says CEDIA global president and CEO Daryl Friedman.

“As we consider the future of this program, we also want their recognizability to extend far beyond our own community. The CEDIA Smart Home Awards name provides a clear explanation for allied trades and the general public, while establishing CEDIA and our award winners as leaders in the space.”

The CEDIA Smart Home Awards are now accepting submissions for the Home Technology Integrator Project Awards through April 21.

Faradite Launches Motion

Sensor 360 - KNX in India

with Jam-Packed Features for Smart Homes

Faradite, the UK-based manufacturer of smart home devices, has partnered with Beyond Controls to bring their latest product, the Motion Sensor 360KNX, to the Indian market. The new PIR motion sensor boasts an array of features and functions that are sure to appeal to KNX integrators across the country.

The Motion Sensor 360 - KNX boasts a wide range of features and functions that make it an ideal choice for KNX integrators in India.

With its small form factor of only 49mm, the device can perform four independent functions, each with independent parameters. The sensor also offers six different function types, including switching, dimming value transmitter, scenes, HVAC, constant lighting control, and advanced value sending with 10 different value types.

The Motion Sensor 360 - KNX has a day/night mode that allows different functions to take place depending on the time of day. It features a

brightness sensor that adjusts the device’s behavior based on the current light level in the room. The sensor has master/slave capabilities that allow multiple sensors to be connected to cover larger spaces seamlessly. The device also has a push button input technology that allows it to be connected to a KNX switch and set to override the sensor’s normal functions, providing maximum flexibility and a fantastic user experience.

One unique feature of the KNX device is its Constant Light Control (daylight harvesting) function. This dynamically adjusts the programmed dimming channel to maintain a brightness setpoint in the room. The device can dim the lights to a low level when it is bright enough, and increase the lighting when the natural environment becomes darker, ensuring that the brightness setpoint is always maintained.

Faradite is a proud member of Made in Britain, and all its products, including the new Motion Sensor 360 - KNX, are designed and manufactured in the UK. Beyond Controls, the exclusive Indian distributor for Faradite products, is excited to bring the Motion Sensor 360 - KNX to the Indian market.

Commenting on the launch, Amit Sharma of Beyond Controls said, “We are thrilled to partner with

Faradite to bring the Motion Sensor 360 - KNX to the Indian market. The device’s extensive range of features and functions make it an ideal choice for smart homes, and we are confident that KNX integrators in India will appreciate the flexibility and user experience it offers.”

For more information on the Motion Sensor 360 - KNX, visit faradite.com.

Hogar Controls’ New Experience Centre in Chennai

Hogar Controls, a US-based manufacturer of home automation and retrofit solutions, have launched their new experience center at Build HQ, Egmore, Chennai. Build HQ is India’s biggest building material and interior design superstore spanning an area of over 1 Lakh Square feet and housing 70+ luxury brands under one roof.

The flagship showroom of Hogar Controls inaugurated by Mr. Ravi Meenakshi Sundaram, Hon’ble Chairman, IIID Chennai Regional Chapter & Mr. Praneetha Varma, Hon’ble Secretary, IIID Chennai Regional, Mr. Jaspreet Singh Bhatia, Vice President – Hogar Controls and Mr. Ravi Simha, Zonal Sales Head – Hogar Controls in the presence of leading architects and interior designers.

Focused on building the Omnichannel business in the home automation market and luxurious wall finishes, Hogar Controls have earmarked Chennai to begin their expansion plans in South India. Besides displaying a highly curated range of smart home products and solutions, thus offering customer a whole new experience of modern living under one roof.

Earlier Hogar Controls has launched an all-new range of Smart Touch Panels, World-class Controllers, Digital Door Locks, and Smart Curtain Motors in the global and Indian markets. In 2019, the company set up its assembling unit in Hyderabad to manufacture products that combine cutting-edge technology and design thinking, thus offering homeowners, retailers, and professional integrators a range of innovative, intuitive, and stylish products. By the end of 2021, Hogar Controls redefined connected living by manufacturing over 100 smart home products in India, besides offering full range of retrofit home solutions that enables easy fitting to any existing switchboard without much hassle on wiring or need for remodeling.

Mr. Vishnu Reddy, CEO – Hogar Controls, said, “The Indian smart home market growth is being driven by the increasing demand for automation solutions in residential and commercial buildings, growing

awareness of energy efficiency, and government initiatives to promote the adoption of smart home technologies. In addition, technological advancements such as voice control, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are adapted by consumers for convenience and in order to cater to this demand in

a unique way, we have introduced our first experience center in South India.”

“This experience centre will enable our customers’ especially interior designers & architects and end users to get a first-hand experience of the advance technology, which is easy to install and use in our modern homes. We want to engage with our audience and imprint the concept of safety, sustainability, and quality in smart home solutions in their minds, keeping them up to date on the current developments in the space. As we aim to expand operations across India, we will very soon launch our experience centers in Hyderabad, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Kolkata”, he further added.

Mr. Jaspreet Singh Bhatia, Vice President – Hogar Controls, said, “In addition to our existing premium range of products that primarily appeals to the HNI community, our all-new Hogar Elite range of products and solutions cater to the larger market and are tailormade keeping in mind the needs of the end consumers. Currently, we are the only brand that offers a complete range of retrofit and wireless smart home automation and security solutions under a single roof”.

Ikea Launches Vindstyrka – A Smart Sensor To Measure Indoor Air Quality

Clean indoor air is essential to our wellbeing, and one of the first steps to better air is increased awareness of indoor pollutants. The new VINDSTYRKA air quality sensor allows measuring and monitoring of indoor air pollutant levels, complementing the existing IKEA range of smart solutions that enable better air quality in the home.

Aiming to combine smart technology with design to enable better awareness of one’s indoor air, IKEA launches VINDSTYRKA, a new smart sensor for indoor use that allows people to measure and monitor the air quality in their homes.

“Although we spend most of our time indoors, many of us tend to forget about indoor air pollution. We take for granted that the air in our homes is clean, but small everyday activities like cooking or cleaning can contribute to poor air quality just as much as industry or traffic. With VINDSTYRKA, our ambition has been to create an affordable high-performing air quality sensor to help our customers become more aware of the quality of the air they breathe in their homes, says Henrik Telander, Product owner at IKEA of Sweden.

The most harmful pollutants, particulate matter (PM2.5), can’t be seen with the naked eye. VINDSTYRKA features a display that shows PM2.5 levels, humidity, temperature, and TVOC (Total Volatile Organic Compound). When connected to DIRIGERA, hub for smart products, the sensor makes indoor air quality levels readable in the IKEA Home smart app. In the app, users can also enable VINDSTYRKA to trigger other smart devices, making air quality levels

actionable. VINDSTYRKA can be used on its own, but also to enhance the capabilities of the existing smart air purifier STARKVIND. Connecting VINDSTYRKA to STARKVIND enables the fan speed to be automatically adjusted in correlation with the amount of PM2.5 in the air, ensuring the air in the home is always as clean as possible.

“We want to work for positive change and know that there is no

single solution to solve indoor air pollution. We strive to offer a variety of products and smart solutions that increase awareness of indoor air pollution and allow people to make the right changes for a home with cleaner air”, says Henrik Telander.

VINDSTYRKA will be available in all IKEA markets starting April 2023.

Onetouch Introduces New Range of Security Products for Homes

Onetouch, a leading provider of cutting-edge solutions that improve the security of homes, is proud to introduce its new range of products that further strengthens its commitment to providing safe, dependable, and affordable solutions for some of the most pressing security issues that homes face. With a focus on communication and security, Onetouch is introducing the following new products: the Onetouch Smart Hub Alarm Kit, Onetouch Lite Series Video Door Phone and Video Doorbell, Onetouch Digital Door Lock, and Onetouch SIP IP Phone.

Onetouch Lite Series Video Door Phone and Video Doorbell

The Onetouch Lite Series Video Door Phone and Video Doorbell are innovative products designed to keep you and your family safe. The advanced technology of these products allows you to see and hear who is outside your home before opening the door. The video door phone also provides a two-way communication feature where you can speak to the visitor from inside your home. The video doorbell is equipped with motion detection sensors that alert you when somebody approaches your door, allowing you to make an informed decision about whether or not to open the door. With features such as smartphone integration, a wideangle camera lens, night vision, and visitor snapshot/video, these products offer enhanced security for homeowners in today’s world.

such as scheduling entry times for specific people, automatic locking after a certain period, and remote access to check who accessed the lock, the Onetouch Digital Door Lock offers enhanced security and convenience compared to

Onetouch Smart Hub Alarm Kit

The Onetouch Smart Hub Alarm Kit is a Plug & Play alarm system that requires no installation. With just a push of a button, you can secure your home in an instant. The alarm kit includes a range of sensors, including a Gas leak detector, Magnetic door sensor, occupancy sensor, and Panic Switch, allowing you to protect your property. With features such as Intrusion Detection, App Control, Motion Detection, Panic Alarm, and Voice Command, the Onetouch Smart Hub Alarm Kit offers complete peace of mind whether you’re at home or away.

Onetouch Digital Door Lock

The Onetouch Digital Door Lock is a onetouch solution for securing homes and businesses. With keyless entry, biometric authentication, and remote access, this digital door lock offers convenient access to secure entryways. It also comes with various access control systems such as PIN codes, RFID cards, or facial recognition, adding to its security. With features

Onetouch SIP IP Phone

The Onetouch SIP IP Phone is an innovative solution for businesses looking to streamline their communication systems. It provides an efficient and cost-effective way to make calls, send messages, and access other services over the internet. With its user-friendly interface and robust features, it is ideal for both small businesses and large enterprises. With features such as 3-way conference, 2-line SIP, compatibility with major SIP IPPBX, support for headset, and POE, the Onetouch SIP IP Phone is the perfect solution for businesses looking to streamline their communication systems.

“At Onetouch, we are committed to providing cutting-edge solutions that improve the security of homes and businesses,” said Alok Parmar, Director, Discreet Solutions Pvt Ltd. “Our new range of products further strengthens our commitment to providing safe, dependable, and affordable solutions to some of the most pressing security issues that homes face. We are excited to introduce these innovative products and believe that they will provide enhanced security and convenience to our customers.”

Rithum Wins Two Top New Technology Awards at ISE:2023 Barcelona

London-based Smart Home Startup, Rithum recently announced the launch of Rithum Switch, their thirdgeneration smart home control device that replaces an existing light switch and is also a thermostat. The new Rithum Switch gives Installers and System Integrators an alternative option to a full-control system, offering a scalable and cost-effective solution that provides control of the essentials, aimed at unlocking the underserved midmarket. Rithum recently showcased its innovative range of switches at ISE in Barcelona.

The Rithum also won two Top New Technology (TNT) awards at this year’s Integrated Systems Europe Expo in Barcelona. Both for Residential Application, they received awards for Best Control Panel and Best HVAC Thermostat. Ryan Ovens, Rithum CEO, says, “It’s great to win these awards and for the team to receive some recognition for all the hard work they’ve put in. We’d also like to thank all our integration partners, distributors and investors for helping us on our journey. The support has been

amazing. Over the coming months, the Rithum team plans to focus on developing their software plugin offering to broaden the systems they integrate with. It’s shaping up to be a great year for Rithum.”

Though initially designed for residential applications, they have also seen wide interest from hospitality, hotels, and beyond. By providing integrators with a costeffective and rapidly deployed control solution, integrators can focus on delivering better solutions for their clients, such as using budget on light fixtures or AV instead of a bulky control system.

The touchscreen device replaces an existing light switch or lighting keypad and offers control of thirdparty systems such as Sonos, BluOS, Rako, FIBARO and HDANYWHERE, to name a few. The new product now includes an ambient light and proximity sensor and a temperature sensor which means it can act as a thermostat out of the box. Each Rithum Switch is smart in its own right; with no Rithum processor required just the system it is

controlling, it is cost-effective and simple, but still effective.

While Rithum currently has one hardware product, they also have a suite of plugins that facilitate the various integrations. Some plugins are Premium and some of them are Pro, with the latter only available via installers. This plugin system means that the product is adaptable to each project in the relevant sector without carrying the price tag of a full control system.

Ryan Ovens further elaborates, “We think there is great power in having a product that can be repurposed for different sectors and segments using software enhancements. Rather than have 101 hardware SKUs or multiple brands, we are focused on getting as much as possible out of a few well-designed hardware products and providing our customers the means to monetise software enhancements alongside their own services.”

U&i Launches ‘F1’ & ‘House’ Series TWS Earbuds with Upto 40 hours of battery life

Don’t let your play time or work life be interrupted — enjoy uninterrupted playtime with these TWS earbuds that ensure your audio stays wireless for more than a week. U&i, India’s most progressive gadget accessory and consumer electronics brand, launches two new TWS earbuds ‘F1 Series’ and ‘House Series that will help with your work, play and travel. Featuring Bluetooth V5.1+EDR and enriched with funky colour variants the new TWS can offer up to 40 hours of battery life at a single change.

U&I F1 Series - TWS Earbuds

With a promise of up to 40 hours playtime, U&i brings you F1 Series TWS Earbuds with unique design and attractive color variants. Available in bright Yellow/Black as well as Grey/Black combos with elegant LED lights and a premium build, the F1 is aimed at gamers and music enthusiasts. Based on Bluetooth V5.1+EDR, the F1 Series can instantly power on and connect to your smartphone the moment you open the case. The earbuds are ergonomically designed with a unique angle that fits snugly into the ear canal. Soft and skin-safe silicone tips offer better comfort for all-day wear, while also helping with passive noise isolation for disturbance-free audio pleasure. The F1 Series features an excellent audio performance with punchy bass and low latency that benefits gaming on the move. Each bud offers up to 5 hours of battery life, while the case features a 500mAh battery that extends the total playback to a monstrous 40 hours. The earbuds can charge within 1.5 hours, while the case takes just 2 hours for a complete charge.

U&i House Series - TWS Earbuds

The House Series is great for working professionals as it offers an ergonomic and comfortable earbud design for stress-free and long working hours. The audio performance is exceptional with rich highs, deep bass, and excellent mids for crisp and clear vocals. Built around a Bluetooth V5.1 chip for superior connectivity over a large range of up to 10 meters, the House Series TWS ensures your calls and music is uninterrupted and stutterfree. Each earbud can offer up to 6 hours of battery life, while the

case can add up to four additional top-ups, totaling a good 30 hours of total playback time. Available in an elegant Black colour with a premium design, the House Series TWS is a must-have audio accessory for work and entertainment.

Price and Availability:

The U&i F1 Series and House Series TWS are available in the market at an MRP of INR 3,499 and INR 2,199 respectively. Users can buy these earbuds from all the U&i outlets and other leading retail stores across India.

ViewSonic’s All-in-One LED Displays Elevate the Visual Experience in Diverse Industries from Workplace and School to

Hotels and Museums

ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of visual solutions, showcases its innovative All-inOne LED Display solutions at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2023 in Spain (31 Jan to 3 Feb). The exhibiting solutions include the 216” LED Display with 4K UHD resolution which facilitates largescale collaborative onsite or hybrid events in corporate offices and the 135” LED Display Solution Kit with a foldable screen that can be moved freely between event spaces to set up swiftly. Furthermore, use cases in various sectors were introduced, showing how ViewSonic delivers outstanding audiovisuals to all customers across the corporate, education, hospitality, and exhibition industries.

“ViewSonic has been developing solutions for customers that need to scale up their digital equipment with immersive audiovisual performances. Thus, we created the All-in-One LED displays to solve the pain points of traditional LCD and LED video walls,” said Dean Tsai, General Manager of the Projector & LED Display Business Unit at ViewSonic. “At ISE, we are proud to present the advantages that our customers have benefited from our solutions. From the vibrant images, user-friendly features to the elegant design that can harmoniously merge with any environment. We want to give all visitors an unforgettable viewing experience.”

ViewSonic’s All-in-One LED Display is a total solution which integrates display, image stitching, power supply, and control systems into one device, offering easy installation, intuitive operation, and effortless maintenance. Thanks to the company’s advanced LED

technology, the solution delivers a seamless large-sized presentation up to 216” in a 5mm thin frame and down to 25mm slim design.

Stunning Visuals for Bright Room Viewing at Schools

ViewSonic’s All-in-One LED displays deliver bright and vivid images, even if they are installed in an environment with strong ambient light. The New Taipei Jhangshu International Creative Technical High School installed a 163” All-inOne LED Display in its foyer as a display wall for their International Education classes and is also used to carry out external activities with guests. Despite the installed location having large windows at the side, the clear images are unaffected by the sunlight throughout the day.

While the Georgia Military College, an accredited public military junior college in the U.S., opted for the 163” All-in-One LED display to replace an old projector in the President’s boardroom. The clarity delivered by the LED display makes small text on calendars or spreadsheets more legible, making communication more efficient at meetings. Furthermore, teachers can connect wirelessly to the display via mobile devices and multiple users can easily share screens at the same time.

Enhanced Collaboration in Large Conference Rooms

The Stadtwerke Krefeld, a public utility holding company in Germany, upgraded their 100-pax conference hall with the 216” LED display, turning the space into

a modern facility for large-scale collaborative events like employee training, business meetings, and press conferences. With vivid images and room-filling audio, the audience can see and hear clearly regardless of the lighting condition and where their seats are. Moreover, its built-in OS is compatible with the company’s existing IT setup, offering higher flexibility to expand its IT infrastructure.

Greater Flexibility and Faster Setup to Move Between Venues

ViewSonic’s latest application of the foldable 135” LED Display Solution Kit at the Gaia Hotel Bandung in Indonesia provides maximized convenience to upgrade the hotel’s event spaces into cinematic venues for meetings, weddings, and conferences. With its foldable large screen, Harman Kardon speakers, and a motorized floor stand with 360° silent wheels, the large display can be moved effortlessly between 26 meeting and event spaces to deliver fantastic audiovisuals instantly. It does not only save time and labor but also spared the hotel from potential expensive renovations.

Another application is at the A.M. Architekturmuseum der TUM in Germany, using the 135” All-inOne LED Display Solution Kit for the “Taiwan Acts!” architecture exhibition. With the pre-assembled system in a movable flight case, it could be unboxed and setup with two people in 10 minutes, significantly reducing preparation efforts so the curators can focus on the art itself.