Automatic swing doors are a practical choice for modern commercial spaces today. They improve accessibility and movement. The doors also ensure compliance with safety standards.
Automatic swing doors can cater to the reliability needs and convenience of senior living communities and retail stores. They are also a crucial inclusion in healthcare facilities and offices.
Reasons Why Automatic Swing Doors Are Important
Automatic swing doors:
Improve Accessibility
- Help with easy access for people with mobility issues
- Stay open long enough to ensure safe passage
- Promote independence in private or public establishments
Ensure Seamless Movement of Goods
- Aid in moving carts, packages, and bulky items
- Reduce physical strain in high-traffic zones
Benefit Senior Citizens
- Reduce or eliminate the physical effort necessary to open heavy external doors
- Enhance comfort and everyday convenience for older residents
How Automatic Swing Doors Work
These are hinged doors integrated with a motorized operator. This motor aids in seamless opening and closing.
Key Components
- Door Operator: Can be mounted within or above the frame. It aids in motion.
- Activation Sensors: Detect motion, touch, or proximity.
- Safety Sensors: Do not let the door close on obstacles
- Control Systems: Manage modes of operation and dwell time. They also control speed.
- Power Supply: Either hardwired or with backup batteries.
Automatic door can also have a few other components, such as:
- biometric devices
- keypads
- badge readers
Installation Considerations
With or Without Power Source
- Can be installed even in spaces with limited access to electricity
- An electrician must connect the operator to the power supply source
Mounting and Operation
- Can be mounted on either push or pull side
- Activation can occur through push plates, wave switches, or remote transmitters
Integration with Security Systems
- Can work with electric strikes, latch retraction kits, and fire alarm systems
- Can be programmed for automatic unlocking in emergencies
Accessibility
- Barrier-Free Entry: Function via switches or motion sensors.
- Low Energy Systems: Reduce the probability of accidents by slowing down.
- Safety Sensors: Optional, depending on the site requirements.
- Access Control: Can be tied to existing building security metrics.
Operational and Safety Features
- Hands-Free Mode: Wave switches or motion sensors can detect approach.
- Manual Activation: Traditional push-button option.
- Remote Control Mode: A handy handheld transmitter to assist forklift operators and tenants.
- Emergency Integration: Systems continue to function during a fire alarm or power failure.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance extends the life of these systems.
Common Maintenance Issues
- Misaligned and latched doors
- Loose hardware or damaged exit devices
- Operator wear from Norton, Dorma, and LCN, among others
Measures for Maintenance
- Routine testing
- Sensor calibration
- Lubrication of hinges
- Oiling the mechanical parts
- Software updates for smart access systems
- Timely inspections to catch early wear and tear
Best Uses
Automatic swing doors can come in handy in several different environments:
- Commercial Buildings: Offices, retail outlets, restaurants, and cafés.
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes.
- Education: Schools and universities.
- Transport Hubs: Airports, bus depots, and train stations.
- Government Buildings: Courthouses, city halls, and service centers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to retrofit onto existing frames
- Suitable for either single or double-door setups
- Energy-efficient models minimize energy waste
- Easy integration with security systems
- More cost-efficient than sliding systems
Cons
- Clear swing arc required
- More maintenance is needed in high-traffic areas
- Sliding doors provide a sleeker, continuous glass façade
Why Go for Swing Doors Instead of Sliding or Folding Doors?
- Retrofit potential: Existing manual doors can be converted to automated without dramatically altering the structure.
- Affordable: Less expensive to install than larger, heavier sliding systems.
- Secure access: Easily integrates with credential-based entry systems.
- Reliable: Tracks of sliding options are more prone to misalignment.
So, automatic swing doors are the best alternative for seamless and most accessible entryways.
