SFD’s automatic gates can be interfaced with a variety of control systems, from a simple manually operated push button to more sophisticated fully automatic ultrasonic or autosensor devices. Connection to a customer’s own bespoke control system, for example a fire alarm or computer system, is also possible. Standard control mechanisms are described as below:
Photocell Eyes (PEC) are a reliable and effective form of gate control. The eyes act as a presence sensor, sending out a beam of invisible infrared light directed at a reflective strip placed opposite the photocell eye. There are a number of options to suit all needs:
- First Front Eye – The first front eye is positioned in the upright post supporting the lead-in rails. When a person or object breaks the invisible beam of light, the gate will open and close again after a pre-set time delay. Should a person or object remain in the path of the light beam, the gate will remain open.
- Second Front Eye – Supplementing and operating in the same manner as the first front eye, the second front eye is typically positioned on a cross rail close to the gate body. If the gate begins to close before the customer has passed it, activation of the second front eye will re-open it.
- Six Eye Rear Safety Zone – The six eye rear safety zone offers increased safety for pedestrians in the path of the gate arm. If any one of the six eye beams is broken, the gate arm stops moving. The gate will not function until the safety zone area is cleared of any presence and a pre-set time delay
has elapsed.
- Reverse Action Eye – Exclusively for use with reverse action gate configurations, it is incorporated into the lead out barrier rail. Reverse action gate configurations allow unrestricted flow in one direction whilst inhibiting flow in the opposite direction.
- Push Button – A push button is the simplest means of controlling a gate. It can be used in any application where direct control or monitoring of persons through the gate is required.
- Radar – Generally used in applications where space is limited or a more open environment is desired. One internally mounted sensor is required per gate.
Each sensor is factory-set, but due to the variable nature of each installation, it may be necessary to alter the detection range on site.
- Rear Safety sensors – Can be used where it is not desirable to use lead-out rails.
One internally mounted sensor is required per gate.
- Overhead motion sensor – This control system offers the security benefit of unobtrusive automated entrance gates which are operated based on motion and presence in order to open/close the gates as required. The overhead sensor can be installed in a variety of applications from recessed into the ceiling to supported by unistrut in order to complement the site environment – thus removing need for any barriers whilst giving finite control.
