Businesses worldwide rely on automatic sliding doors to save energy and create an easy path for customers into their buildings. Because automatic doors operate relatively seamlessly, many people aren't quite sure how they work. Though they may seem complex, they rely on simple mechanisms. Here's a closer look at how automatic sliding doors work and how they could benefit your business. 

How Do Automatic Sliding Doors Operate? 

Automatic doors are designed to sense the presence of a person and physically slide open the doors to create a touch-free entrance into a building. There are three main types of sensors used in automatic doors today: pressure sensors, optical or motion sensors, and infrared detectors. 

Pressure sensors were the first types of sensors used in automatic doors and were common in the 1960s. These are placed under the floor near the door and are set to open whenever a certain threshold of weight passes into the area. These sensors eliminated unnecessary openings for pets or rolling objects and were designed to remain open as long as the pressure sensor was triggered. Today, pressure sensors are typically used as a secondary sensor for automatic doors and are often coupled with motion detectors. 

Optical sensors or motion detectors use a microwave beam to detect the presence of an individual who may want to access the building. These sensors detect motion, but they may fail if a person is not moving quickly enough. Infrared sensors are made to eliminate this issue, as they detect radiant heat coming from a live person to open the doors. 

When any of these sensors are activated, they send a signal to the control board that acts as the brain of the automatic door, and the device powers an electronic drive train, which connects to the doors through a cogwheel. Rubber belts are moved to pull the doors open and reversed to close the doors again, and a track at the bottom of the doors keeps the device in place, stable, and moving smoothly. 

What Benefits Do Automatic Doors Offer? 

One of the biggest benefits of automatic doors is energy savings. While traditional doors may be left open by customers, allowing heated and cooled air to pass outdoors, automatic doors that close behind individuals prevent heating and air conditioning waste. 

Since automatic doors can be programmed to stop functioning when the store is closed, they can also boost store security. Since most are made with welded metals and heavy, tamper-resistant mechanisms and glass panes, automatic doors create a secure portal into your store without sacrificing aesthetics. As a bonus, touch-free entrances and exits eliminate germ transfer since people coming and going won't come into contact with doorknobs or push panels. 

Whether you're looking to install automatic doors within your business or need fast, efficient service, reach out to Southern Ohio Door Controls. Serving the tri-state area, including all of Kentucky, this American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers® (AAADM) member is focused on helping you with everything from securing your business with better doors to complying with state and federal accessibility laws regarding store entrances and exits. Learn more about their business by visiting their website. Schedule a free estimate by calling the Cleves, OH, office at (513) 353-4793 or (877) 304-0251 or the Kentucky location at (502) 376-8260.