Our client, dealing with heat buildup under a new glass roof, asked if we could create a motorized horizontal screen system—similar to the Ziptrak^® blinds we’d previously installed vertically. The spans were small (1.2–1.5m wide, 3m long), but no supplier offered a warranted solution for horizontal use.

With the client’s support, we explored options at the 2024 Christchurch trade conference but found nothing motorized. So, we built a prototype in our workshop. After trialing dual motors and encountering control issues, we opted for a single motor and spring return system. Standard  Ziptrak^® components were adapted, with custom spools and spline tape to pull the screen across.

Initial trials worked well, and we got approval to proceed. Installation in peak summer under the glass roof was challenging—surfaces were too hot to touch. Once all screens were in, we began programming, but encountered shuddering and jamming on retraction.

Back on site in January, 4 of 7 screens were misaligned or stuck. Issues included friction (from spline tape and plastic end caps) and uneven stretch in the tapes. We replaced the tapes with 3mm Spectra braid, swapped the caps for micro roller bearings, and fine-tuned the alignment.

The result: smooth, synchronized operation across all seven screens. Will this be the end of it? Unlikely—but with a supportive client and lessons learned, we’re glad we took on the challenge. Would we do it again? Yes—on a similar scale. Is there a better method? Probably. But it was a bold and rewarding first attempt.