Nuremberg/Leinfelden-Echterdingen – (rp) Large-format and floor-level sliding windows and doors are no longer something that can be ignored in discussions about upcoming trends. This is no surprise, given the range of convincing arguments they have to offer. These components represent a modern, natural-living aspect and quality of light, creating transparent outlooks in “XXL dimension” and even, in part, fulfilling façade functions. In addition, their modern representatives make a good impression when it comes to “energy efficiency”. During “fensterbau/frontale” Roto emphasised that the current and future market success is primarily the result of intelligent hardware technology. The company, which considers itself a full-service provider in this sector, displayed a cross-section of their “Sliding” portfolio at the end of March in Nuremberg. This portfolio covers solutions for windows and doors with Fold&Slide, Lift&Slide, parallel Tilt&Slide, and Tilt&Slide versions. In the “Patio Fold” product group, in particular, the manufacturer had a number of innovations to demonstrate. The “Premium Hardware for Fold&Slide Systems with a Large Surface” is now characterised by its suitability for sash weights of up to 100 kg. The application range has been extended to elements with a maximum of 2,800 mm in height, enables the implementation of room height sashes and permits additional planning alternatives. Furthermore, a new enhanced threshold with optimised isothermal efficiency increases energy efficiency considerably. In addition, it makes a specific contribution to the considerably ever more requested barrier-free criteria. When it comes to user friendliness and durability, Roto reports “important system progress”. They’re referring to the ball bearing, smooth-running bogie with quiet and low maintenance PVC castors. This also fulfils the requirements of the permanent operation class 4, which requires the completion of 15,000 hassle-free cycles in accordance with DIN EN 13126. The “Patio Fold” program is suitable for wood, wood/aluminium, aluminium, and PVC profiles, as well as for elements that open both inwards and outwards. It has powder-coated hinges without PVC caps, and guarantees, thanks to a support-bracket, a safe and robust load transfer and also offers high sealing levels. In addition, according to Roto, there are special advantages for manufacturers of Fold&Slide windows and doors. These include faster production and more simplified logistics that result from the exploitation of synergies for Tilt&Turn and “Eifel” threshold systems.