How Do Automatic Doors Work

All automatic doors require a sensor that detects when the door needs to be opened. Whenever the sensor detects a cue, it sends a signal to the door operating mechanism. Once the signal is received, the mechanism opens the door.

Common Types Of Automatic Doors

Today, there are three main types of automatic doors in use, including:

• Pressure Sensors
• Access Control Or Video Intercom System
• Motion Detection And Optical Sensors

Let’s take a look at how these three automatic doors work!

Pressure Sensors

Originally introduced in the 1960s, pressure sensors will use changes in weight and/or pressure to determine when to open the door. Pressure sensors are typically installed as mats or pads on the ground. Whenever an individual approaches the door and puts weight on the mat, the door will open. This occurs simply due to the person’s weight being detected.

Access Control Or Video Intercom System

Most modern automatic doors utilize motion-detecting sensors. Typically, the majority of these detectors use either microwave pulses or passive infrared sensors (PIR) to detect any movement. Microwave beam motion detectors will send out pulses to measure moving objects’ reflections.

Passive infrared sensors, meanwhile, will measure temperatures changes related to body heat. Sensors using microwave technology will be more expensive since they cover a larger area. However, this technology is at risk of electrical interference at times.

Motion Detection And Optical Sensors

Instead of detecting motion or pressure, this type of automatic door uses a signal from an access control system for operation. This signal can come from a variety of things, such as a smartphone, fob, keycard or any other device that has been programmed for detection.

These doors are perfect for multifamily and commercial buildings looking to only grant access for certain authorized individuals. Most commercial properties will seek access control systems to fulfill both fire and safety regulations. When these systems are connected to the cloud, staff will enjoy the ease and convenience of managing the property from a web browser.

How Does The Automatic Door Sensor Work?

When a sensor detects motion or pressure, it will send a signal to the door opening mechanism. This mechanism is powered by an electric motor, which opens the door accordingly.

Automatic door types include the following:

• Sliding Doors: Perfect for two-way traffic, these doors are hung from overhead tracks. They can also be mounted by tracks and rollers.
• Revolving Doors: These doors will enable simultaneous entry and exit. Revolving doors are best suited for areas with high traffic.
• Swinging Doors: These doors can either open inward or outward.
• Folding Doors: Where space is minimal, these doors can be installed to create a passageway.