What sensors are used in automatic doors?

What sensors are used in automatic doors, how do they work and what might be the most suitable for my installation? Automatic doors rely on sensors to operate safely and efficiently. Different sensors are fitted in different contexts and the technology is always evolving.

What sensors are used in automatic doors?

A range of different sensors are commonly used to operate automatic doors in the UK. Some of the most common are:

• Infrared Motion Sensors

Infrared motion sensors are used in automatic doors to detect movement. They emit infrared beams and measure the reflection or interruption caused by a person or object passing through. When a change is detected, the sensor sends a signal to the door control system, which responds by opening or keeping the door open. Infrared motion sensors are reliable, cost-effective, and can be adjusted to different ranges, but may not detect non-reflective or transparent objects.

• Pressure Sensors

Pressure sensors are widely used in automatic doors installations. They operate by detecting physical contact or force on the door panels. Pressure sensitive pads or switches send a signal to the door control system when pressure is applied. This signal triggers a response such as opening the door. Pressure sensors are convenient and reliable and will generally be installed when touchless activation isn’t required or isn’t feasible.

• Optical Sensors

In automatic doors, optical sensors provide reliable and efficient detection of objects or individuals, enabling the doors to open or remain open as needed. They use light-based technology to measure changes in light intensity, analyse laser reflections, or capture visual information. Optical sensors provide accurate detection, versatility, and the ability to adapt to different lighting conditions.

• Radar Movement Sensors

Radar movement sensors use radar technology to detect movement in automatic doors. They can not only detect when a person or object is near to door, but they can also sense what direction they are coming from. Radar sensors offer benefits such as long-range detection, ability to penetrate obstacles, and adjustable settings, but they can only detect something or someone if they are moving, not if they are stationary.

How do the sensors in automatic doors work?

Sensors use a variety of technologies and means to detect a variety of stimuli such as motion, presence, touch, or changes in light or radio waves.  Detected signals are then interpreted by the door control system, which triggers actions such as opening, closing, or maintaining the door’s position.

Sensors enable the safe and efficient operation of automatic doors whatever the situation. Your installation team will be able to advise about the most appropriate sensor type for your doors. Sensors, along with the rest of your automatic door installation, should be regularly serviced to ensure their safe operation and to minimise the risk of unscheduled downtime.

Automatic Door Servicing & Maintenance from Safetell

At Safetell, we help our clients ensure the safe, energy-efficient and reliable operation of their automatic doors with our automatic door maintenance service. We are committed to a “repair not replace” ethos, which means we won’t sell you parts and components that you do not need.

Contact our professional experienced team to find out more about automatic door maintenance and how we can help.