The main sensors used on automatic sliding doors: microwave motion, infrared presence, combined sensors, touchless switches and safety beams.
An automatic sliding door is only as good as its sensors. Sensors decide when the door opens, keep it open while people are in the doorway, and stop it from closing on anyone. The right combination makes a door feel effortless and keeps it safe.
Microwave sensors detect movement towards the door and trigger it to open. Many can tell the direction of movement, so the door opens for people approaching but not for people walking past. They are the most common activation sensor in malls, offices and hospitals.
Infrared presence sensors detect a person or object standing still in the doorway. This keeps the door open while someone is in the threshold, which is important for people moving slowly, using wheelchairs or pushing trolleys.
Many modern doors use a single combined sensor that provides both motion activation and presence safety. This simplifies installation and gives good coverage of the approach and threshold areas.
Photoelectric safety beams across the opening add another layer of protection by stopping the door from closing when the beam is broken.
Touchless wave switches are popular in hospitals, clean areas and washrooms for hygiene. Card readers, keypads and biometric devices control access to restricted areas.
| Location | Recommended sensors |
|---|---|
| Mall or retail entrance | Combined motion and presence sensors |
| Hospital and clinic | Combined sensors plus touchless switches |
| Office entrance with access control | Card reader to open, presence sensor for safety |
| Clean room or lab | Touchless switch and presence sensor |
The motion sensor may be picking up passers-by, moving objects or vibrations. Adjusting the sensor angle and sensitivity usually solves this.
The presence sensor or hold-open time may need adjustment. This is a safety issue and should be checked promptly by a technician.
In most cases, yes. Modern combined sensors and touchless switches can be added to many existing automatic sliding doors.
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