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Smart Slides: The Integration of Technology in Trendy Sliding Door Systems Jun 14, 2024 By Fenesta

Whether it is for the patio or the balcony, the sliding door design has always been a popular choice among homeowners thanks to the several benefits it offers. These versatile door systems have come a long way from their inception, evolving from manually operated systems to smart automated solutions. Sliding door designs trace their roots back to ancient Japanese and Roman architectural styles. These used to be made of stone panels or heavy wood at the time, and it wasn’t until the 20th century that the more user-friendly and efficient sliding door systems were introduced.

Top Benefits of Sliding Doors

• Aesthetic Appeal: Sliding door designs are sleek and minimalistic and can fit seamlessly into any architectural style.

• Space Efficiency: Sliding doors are the best choice for areas where space is at a premium. There is no need for floor space around the door either, as these doors do not swing.

•  Natural Light: Glass sliding doors allow ample natural light inside which makes for a welcoming and more energy-efficient environment.
•  Materials: Sliding doors are available in a range of material choices, including uPVC and aluminium.
•  Additional Features: Sliding doors can be customized using accessories. You can get your aluminium or uPVC sliding door with a grill or mesh, and choose from numerous handle options, colours, and finishes according to your preferences.

The Evolution of Automatic Sliding Doors

The First Modern Automatic Sliding Door Design

In 1954, the first automatic sliding doors were invented by Lew Hewitt and Dee Horton. The doors used a mat actuator. Soon after, in 1960, the very first commercial automatic sliding doors were made available in the market, with a pneumatic powering system, electric floor mat activation, and an emergency break-out feature.

Motion Detection

The 1970s saw the invention of motion detectors that could be used to activate sliding doors. This was also when the low-energy swing door concept came into being and the very first access doors for the specially abled persons were launched. In the 1980s, infrared presence sensors and automatic revolving doors were introduced. This is when motion detection activation became the industry standard for automatic sliding door designs. The 1990s saw the first automatic folding doors as the automatic door industry started taking shape.

Also Read: Facts You Should Know about Slide and Fold Doors

The Rise of Automatic Sliding Doors

Technology has kept advancing and today, you can find automatic sliding doors at almost every commercial establishment, opening automatically as you approach the door and efficiently closing behind you. The opening and closing function of the doors is triggered by sensors.

How Do Automatic Sliding Doors Work?

The opening and closing function of automatic sliding doors is carried out by sensors that are generally placed at the sides and top of the door frame. In most instances, optical, motion, and pressure-based sensors are used in automatic doors. Motion and optical sensors use infrared technology to detect movement as people walk towards the door. On the other hand, pressure-based sensors detect weight. As the motion pressure is detected, the sensors signal the door to open and people walking through the door keep the sensors activated. When motion or pressure can no longer be detected, the sensors signal the doors to close.

Also Read: Aluminium Door Design Ideas for Commercial Spaces

Benefits Offered by Automatic Sliding Doors

Convenience

One of the top benefits of automatic sliding doors is the convenience they offer. The Automatic opening and closing of the doors eliminate the need for manually opening or closing the doors. This functionality can prove to be very useful in areas that have high foot traffic with people constantly coming and going. Another benefit offered by automatic sliding doors is that they ensure easy accessibility for everyone, including persons with disabilities, allowing for easy ingress and egress from the building.

Security

For several commercial establishments and public places, it is crucial to be able to restrict access to the building or certain parts of the building. However, automatic sliding door designs are flexible and allow you to implement several security features as well. For example, your automatic sliding door can be integrated with different types of access control systems, like biometric scanners or RFID key card readers. You can also consider an aluminium or uPVC sliding door with a grill to ensure complete security of highly confidential areas.

Higher Energy Efficiency

Automatic sliding doors can help save significant amounts of energy. Their automatic operation ensures that these doors don’t unnecessarily stay open for long, thereby preventing heat transfer, and maintaining indoor temperature. This feature of automatic sliding doors helps lower energy bills as well.

Aesthetics

Apart from the functionality offered, automatic sliding doors also come with modern and sleek design options that can help enhance the aesthetics of any space. They can also be customised to blend into the overall look of the establishment.

Low Maintenance Requirements

Compared to traditional doors, automatic sliding doors require very little maintenance. Their cleaning and upkeep are simple and with their high durability, they last longer than traditional doors. Additionally, if you opt for uPVC or aluminium for the door material, the doors will also not flake, warp, corrode, or rust.

Also Read: How to Take Care of uPVC Windows and Doors

The Cost-Effective Solution

At first sight, the initial cost of automatic sliding doors may seem higher, but in the long term, considering their low maintenance requirements and energy efficiency, they are the more cost-effective solution, especially for establishments with high foot traffic.

Fenesta is one of the leading manufacturers of uPVC and aluminium doors and windows in India. Whether you seek a combination of sliding glass windows for internal doors or front entrance doors, you will find exactly what you are looking for with Fenesta’s expansive range of fenestration solutions.