Skip to content

The Evolution of Automatic Door Systems: A Journey Through Time

The added convenience of automated door systems has become a common element in contemporary structures, public places, and commercial spaces in today’s fast-paced society. Automatic doors have developed in tandem with the ongoing evolution of architectural design, becoming a crucial element in changing how people engage with their surroundings. This in-depth study explores the revolutionary effects of automated door systems and their numerous advantages in influencing architecture in the future.

Automatic Door Systems’ Development

The earliest patents for electrically powered doors were submitted in the 1920s, marking the beginning of automatic door systems in the early 20th century. To open and close the doors, early versions relied on intricate wiring and mechanical mechanisms. However, automatic door systems did not start to become widely used in the industry until the 1960s, when photoelectric cells and SR-50 sensors were developed.

Development of Technologies for Automatic Doors

Photocells: Photoelectric cells are sensors that identify the presence of objects or persons by using light beams. These gadgets are crucial for enhancing accessibility and safety by making sure the door only opens and closes when someone is detected.

SL-50 Sensors: These sensors are made up of both sensing and infrared projection components. These sensors are very effective in low-light situations because they use their heat signatures to determine the presence of things.

Microwave Sensors: These devices employ radio waves to identify items or persons in close proximity to the door. These sensors are appropriate for exterior installations since they are less likely to produce erroneous triggers due to weather conditions.

Induction Loops: In order to detect the presence of metal items, such wheelchairs or shopping carts, induction loops use a wire coil to create a magnetic field. For those who use assistive equipment, induction loops are crucial to ensure smooth access.

Automatic Door Systems’ Advantages

Improved Accessibility: People with mobility impairments, the elderly, and people with disabilities can enter more easily thanks to automatic door systems. A more inclusive and friendly atmosphere is created by automated doors, which eliminate the need to manually open doors.

Increased Safety and Security: By eliminating the need for manual door opening and shutting, automatic doors significantly lower the danger of crashes and injuries. Furthermore, when doors are closed, these devices offer an additional degree of protection by prohibiting unwanted access.

Enhanced Efficiency: By removing the need for human operation, automated door systems provide unmatched convenience by opening and closing doors automatically. By cutting down on wait times and delays, this optimised procedure enables companies to increase production and efficiency.

Energy Savings: By adjusting door opening hours according to temperature, occupancy, and even natural light, energy-efficient automated door systems may assist companies in lowering their energy usage. Over time, this can result in significant cost savings.

Aesthetic Appeal: Automatic door systems may also provide contemporary architecture a touch of refinement and flair, improving the structures’ and businesses’ visual appeal.

Selecting an Appropriate Automatic Door System

Location: Take into account the particular setting in which the automated door system will be implemented, as outdoor or heavily populated interior areas could call for strong, long-lasting systems.

Accessibility: Make sure the automated door system has sensors and induction loops that can identify persons and items, allowing everyone to have equal access.

Customisation: Look for a system that can be altered to satisfy certain design specifications, including special frame dimensions, available finishes, or mobility characteristics.

Maintenance: To make sure the chosen model is dependable and simple to maintain over time, investigate the maintenance needs of different automatic door systems.

To sum up

With its many advantages that meet the demands of both enterprises and the general public, automatic door systems have revolutionised the architectural industry. Automatic doors help create a more efficient, inclusive, and accessible environment by offering smooth, safe, and easy entryways. As technology continues to develop, automated door systems will become increasingly integrated with smart home and building automation systems, becoming a crucial part of the continuous development of urban and architectural design.