Door Industry Journal - Winter 2017

“Smart home” and “internet of things” – two hot topics that both refer to the same general trend: The connection of things via the internet in order to increase the quality of life and living, provide greater security and use energy more efficiently. The foundation for achieving these aims lies in networked devices and electrical installations that can be controlled remotely, as well as automated processes communicating with one another ‘on the same wavelength’. The development of a common language for devices requires two things: Firstly, one needs partnerships for the development of device standards, and secondly, functioning programs and tools. LiftMaster, the world’s market leader for garage door automation, works with companies such as Apple (Homekit) and Google (Nest) and integrates its MyQ mobile opener control into these existing networks. For Rob Marais, Managing Director International, there are two things in particular that are important for the process of developing networked devices: “Our aim is to provide a simple system that makes everyday life noticeably easier. At the same time, we must also ensure that the necessary data is secure and entirely transparent for the user, as they are the ones that generate this data.” It was to satisfy these objectives that LiftMaster created its MyQ technology, which links the garage door / entrance gate and opener to the internet. As a result, it is possible to monitor and control door and gate from absolutely anywhere – all over the world. Be it using a computer, tablet or smartphone, with the free MyQ app users are able to access their garage door or entrance gate at any time, monitor their status and open or close them as needed. It is even possible to offer people without remote controls, such as children returning home or neighbours, access to the garage or property if desired. Marais added: “Surveys have made it clear to us that our customers particularly value the fact that they will be notified any time that their garage door or gate is opened or closed. As a result, networking their openers provides consumers with the additional security for their home that they are looking for.” Another advantage of MyQ technology is that the ability to monitor and control a garage door opener or gate operator from anywhere with the free MyQ® app has enabled partnerships with the likes of Apple, Nest and other technology providers to seamlessly integrate access control into their platforms. For example, MyQ is already compatible with Google “Nest”, discreet surveillance cameras, that makes it possible to transmit live images, from inside the garage or outside near the gate, to the user‘s smartphone 24 hours a day. Marais believes that the company has an obligation to protect the collected data and make sure that it is secure: “LiftMaster believes in transparency, so only the users and the usage behaviour are saved. All of the data arising from the interactions and entries belongs to the user. As a result, our customers are able to review this data, such as for the times at which doors or gates were opened or closed, at any time.” The objective of this data strategy is to do an even better job of adapting the products to normal daily use and coordinating them with other components of a smart home. Marais concludes: “This offers a sound foundation for making individual products such as automated door and gate openers part of a well-functioning whole.” For more information visit www.liftmaster.co.uk . Safe and Convenient – The Smart Home The ability to monitor your own home at all times, no matter where you are: Something that still sounds like science fiction is quickly becoming reality. The advantages are particularly evident when it comes to security, convenience and lower energy consumption. To achieve this, reliable technology and transparent data collection are essential. 38 THE door industry journal winter 2017 domestic garage doors Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk MyQ is a simple system that links the garage door or gate opener with the internet. As a re- sult, it is possible to monitor and control the door from absolutely anywhere – all over the world. Picture: tdx/LiftMaster Be it using a computer, tablet or smartphone, with the free MyQ app users are able to access their garage door or entrance gate at any time, moni- tor their status and open or close them as needed. Picture: tdx/LiftMaster With the “smart home” and “internet of things”, devices are connected via the internet in order to increase the quality of life and living, provide greater security and use energy more efficiently. With its MyQ mobile opener control, LiftMaster is a part of this process. This means that users can set up control scenarios for saving energy when no one’s at home, for example. Picture: tdx/LiftMaster