
Trend in New Zealand: “Cabrio roofs” in the outdoor sector – Private persons discovering a new sense of freedom
“Cabrio roofs” are flexible roofing systems for patios and the like, with large-format slats made of glass, aluminum or stainless steel. These may be regulated as desired in line with the weather situation. In New Zealand they have already been tried and tested under the extreme weather conditions there: Restaurant owners and hoteliers have increasingly roofed their outdoor areas with movable large-format slats in recent years, thus creating additional “outdoor space”. Private persons are now also discovering the benefits of this flexible roofing system. Linear drives from elero allow for the uncomplicated control of the large-format slats and ensure ideal lighting conditions.
At the heart of a “Cabrio roof” is the optimum motorization of the slat elements. They should be powerful, have a long service life, and be inconspicuous when viewed from outside. This is why the builder-owner of a family home in Auckland opted for the Picolo 0 from elero for his patio roof.
Functionality and design in harmony
The roof of the private house comprises two areas in parallel to one another, each with 23 individual slats. So as to keep the weight of the construction as low as possible, aluminum slats from the company LOCARNO Architectural Systems were used – color coordinated with the house. Thanks to the intelligent linear actuator Picolo 0, the roof slats may be adjusted in line with the weather situation: They offer protection against the heat of the sun, prevent any dazzle with intensive sunshine, and nevertheless allow for a view of the open skies. If needs be, in the event of rain for example, the roof may even be closed completely. The slats are controlled conveniently using a wall-mounted transmitter located between the double doors of the outdoor area. The two groups of slats may even be moved independently of one another, with the effect that even if the sun is low in the sky, the ideal lighting conditions can be attained quickly.
Weather-resistant and durable
Thanks to its slender design, the electromechanical push-rod actuator Picolo 0 may be integrated into modern façades in an optimum manner. The free choice of installation position means architects have greater freedom with its possible deployment. Thanks to its high protection class (IP 67), the drive is insensitive to extreme environmental conditions such as heat, cold, moisture and dirt. This is why it is also particularly suitable for use in coastal regions.

Fifth façade: Dynamic, large-format slats as roofing for the outdoor area.

Functionality and design in perfection: Thanks to the Picolo 0, the large-format slats are moved quite easily using a wall-mounted transmitter and may be closed entirely in the event of a sudden change in the weather.

The Picolo 0 always cuts a fine figure and is convincing thanks to its long service life.