Sensors: The eyes of an automated entry system

Automatic doors have seamlessly integrated themselves into our everyday lives, providing convenience and efficiency in places like shopping malls, airports, hospitals, and numerous other public areas. Behind the scenes, a sophisticated network of sensors tirelessly monitors their surroundings, making these modern marvels possible. In this comprehensive discussion, we will explore the world of automatic door sensors, shedding light on their various types, safety considerations, and their pivotal role in ensuring a smooth and secure experience for all.

Meeting Safety and Operational Requirements

The world of automatic door sensors encompasses several essential requirements, all of which play a vital role in guaranteeing both safety and efficient operation. Whether in a bustling shopping complex or a quiet hospital corridor, these prerequisites are crucial for the seamless functioning of automatic doors.

1. Safety Regulations: Automatic doors must strictly adhere to rigorous safety regulations, as outlined by organizations such as the American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers (AAADM). These guidelines are indispensable for user safety and accident prevention.

2. Activation Range: Sensors must possess a well-defined activation range to effectively detect approaching individuals or objects.

3. Presence Detection: The ability to detect the presence of individuals without any motion is a critical aspect, ensuring that the door responds appropriately to its environment.

4. Opening and Closing Speed: The speed at which the door opens and closes should be optimized to prevent accidents and ensure user convenience.

5. Safety Sensors: The incorporation of safety sensors, such as photoelectric beam sensors, is vital to prevent doors from closing on individuals in the threshold area.

6. User Experience: A smooth and user-friendly experience is paramount. Sensors should activate the door seamlessly and predictively, making the interaction with automatic doors intuitive and secure.

Exploring Types of Sensors

Within the realm of automatic doors, a diverse array of sensors is available, each tailored to specific needs and scenarios. Let's examine these sensors more closely:

1. Motion Detector Sensors: Most motion detectors employ microwave sensors, which can detect motion from people, objects, and even animals. Caution is necessary when dealing with motion sensors, as they trigger the door's opening mechanism upon detecting any motion.

2. Presence Sensors: When activated by a wave sensor, presence sensors respond differently. If someone stands motionless within the sensor's range and activates the door, it operates at a safe speed to prevent collisions. The choice between swing and slide doors influences the type of presence sensor used. A great product we recommend is the BEA Focus presence sensor.

3. Dual Technology Sensors: These sensors combine motion and presence sensing capabilities. Some models even include a feature that projects a single dot light row onto the ground to indicate the presence's location. A good sensor with this feature is: OPTEX OA-203C

4. Photoelectric Beam Sensors: Positioned on each side of the door beams, these sensors work in tandem with others to ensure anyone within the threshold area is detected, preventing the door from closing on them.

5. Active Infrared Sensors: Emitting an infrared signal to the floor, these sensors activate the door when the signal bounces back due to an obstruction, such as a person. BEA Fly passive infrared sensor is a good option for this type of sensor.

6. Passive Infrared Sensors: These sensors detect thermal patterns and activate the door when they sense a heat source in the vicinity. BEA Fly passive infrared sensor is a good option for this type of sensor.

7. Microwave Sensors: Emitting a wide array of wavelengths, microwave sensors detect the bounce-back signal within that range. By analyzing the pattern of the returning signal, these sensors determine an object's proximity. It looks for the pattern coming back and it understands how close an object is like the BEA EAGLE1HM Microwave sensor.

Prioritizing Safety

Ensuring that automatic door sensors comply with safety regulations, such as those set by the AAADM, is paramount for safeguarding users and preventing accidents. Regular maintenance and adjustments are necessary even after installation to maintain the doors' safe and efficient operation.

Different Sensors for Different Applications

In the realm of automatic door sensors, diversity reigns, with various sensors catering to different applications. Whether you seek guidance on selecting the right sensor for your specific needs or wish to explore the latest sensor technology, our experts are here to assist you.

In conclusion, this exploration of automatic door sensors, aptly titled "Sensors: The Eyes of an Automated Entry System," offers a comprehensive understanding of their significance. We've examined safety regulations, activation ranges, presence detection, opening and closing speeds, and user experience, highlighting their pivotal role in our daily lives. Automatic doors, guided by their vigilant sensors, stand as sentinels in public spaces, ensuring our safety and convenience with each welcoming gesture.