How do revolving doors work, and what benefits do they offer for traffic flow, energy efficiency, and security?
Revolving doors are essential for buildings where traffic flow, energy efficiency and aesthetics are critical. These doors typically feature two, three, or four wings arranged in a circular or occasionally oval configuration, rotating around a central axis with curved, enclosed side panels.
An automatic revolving door operates via a drive system managed by a control unit, which regulates the door’s rotation to ensure a smooth and continuous flow of people without manual effort. Here’s a general overview of how it works:
- Sensors and Activation: Automatic revolving doors are equipped with sensors that detect approaching users and activate the door’s rotation mechanism when someone nears.
- Drive System and Control: The door is powered by a centrally located motor, which works in tandem with a control system that adjusts the door’s speed and rotation direction to accommodate traffic flow and adhere to safety protocols.
- Safety Mechanisms: For optimal safety, these doors are equipped with features that can immediately stop operation if an obstacle is detected or in the event of an emergency, preventing entrapment or accidents.
Revolving doors create a barrier between the interior and exterior using specialised draft brushes surrounding the rotating door wings. Since the door wings consistently seal against the curved sidewalls at every position, there is no direct connection between the inside and outside. This design prevents cold or warm air from outside from easily entering the building, and vice versa, as people pass through. As a result, heating and air conditioning systems require less energy, leading to significant savings on energy costs.