Control roller shutters via a rocker switch; robust home automation integration with feedback in case of malfunction

Hardware
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1

Dear Community,

I’m brand new here and also new to Home Assistant and smart home technology, so I’m looking for advice before getting into it. I’m seeking input on finding a suitable semi-automatic roller shutter control system for our single-family home, which is currently undergoing renovation.

Here’s what I’d like to set up:

  • Control via a single rocker switch per blind (up/neutral/down; which always returns to the neutral position when released), so that I can, for example, use a single double rocker switch for two roller shutters (to save space). See pictures.
  • The rocker switch should be wired and always work reliably as long as there’s power, regardless of Home Assistant, the network, Wi-Fi, etc.
    Integration with Home Assistant (I’m less concerned about this)
  • 100% local / cloud-free
  • As robust a connection as possible for remote control (I’m at a loss here… which protocol?)
  • Clear feedback on my phone during remote control in HA, so I can reliably see whether the actuator has responded or not (is that possible?)
  • As future-proof as possible: if an actuator fails, I should be able to replace it with an equivalent one even 10 years from now with a high degree of certainty, without having to set up a completely new network or system right away.
  • As “maintenance-free” as possible—that is, no need to spend time on a regular basis fixing any instability issues.

doppelwippen
doppelwippen1920×637 103 KB

This raises the following questions for me:

  • Which actuators/protocols are suitable and can also be controlled with a rocker switch?
  • Is the feedback reliable? In other words, can I see whether the actuator responded successfully in the HA app? This is extremely important as I need to be sure the first-floor blinds on the back of the house actually moved. If the connection fails, can I see that easily?

What I’ve already considered:

  • Shelly 2PM Gen4
  • Shelly Qubino Wave Shutter
  • Fibaro Roller Shutter 4

Which one would suit my criteria best in your opinion? Do you have any different suggestions?

Thank you very much for any input!

2

WAGO ?
Don’t know if it supported by HA.

3

I’m using Sonoff MINI-ZBRBS for my exterior blinds. There is a switch input S1/S2 for button output up/down. The modules are tiny and fit into the junction box behind the switch. It uses zigbee protocol. I’m very happy with them.

To make it work in HA, you’ll need a zigbee coordinator and install mosquito mqtt and zigbee2mqtt. After you pair and calibrate them, you’ll be able to see and set the position of the shutters. You can set up an automation to alert you if the device fails.

You didn’t say if you’re in Europe or the USA or wherever. Standard European junction boxes are pretty small and you probably won’t be able to fit 2 modules behind a double switch. If in the US, make sure your electrician puts a double gang box if you plan on a double switch so 2 modules will fit.

That’s going to depend on the switch itself. The switch isn’t smart, the relay is. So you’ll have to find a switch that operates the way you want. Most of them will go to the limit if you hold one direction for a few seconds or double press them. Some have a stop button, and when you press one direction it will travel to the limit or stop only when you press stop.

This setup is 100% local, no cloud whatsoever. I think zigbee will be around for a while. But even if its not, in 10 years, just get a new module that uses the new protocol and have a mixed network until they’re all eventually replaced. HA won’t care what the protocol is as long as everything is operational. Everything needs maintenance over time.