Sensors – more than just induction loops…

 

With technological advances in the sector being developed on a regular basis, it can sometimes be a little overwhelming. This is why we have produced this blog so you can explore for yourself all of the options available and make the most informed decision for you and your site. Read on to find out more… 

So, let’s start at the very beginning – what exactly is a sensor? 

 

Put simply, a sensor is a device which reacts to changes in its environment be that from changes in motion, pressure or changes in infra-red light levels. Having a sensor driving your door, gate or barrier means that you do not have to manually open or close it every time it is used. And, depending on the usage of your product, this can be a real time saver. 

 

Imagine if you have a door which sees a lot of forklift traffic passing through it. Each time a forklift wanted to pass through, the driver would have to stop, press an activation button, drive through, stop, push the activation button again and then carry on until the next driver arrives. Installing sensors to automate the whole process can make it faster and easier as well as allowing you to be much more productive. 

There are many different kinds of sensors which you can use but, depending on the frequency of use, the type or product and location, not everyone might be suitable for your needs. Of course, if you not sure, our experts would be more than happy to explore the options available and advise you on the best option for you. Arrange your free site visit here. 

 

Let’s start at the most basic controls – the push button. 

These controls come as standard with your installed door and allow the operator to control when and for how long the door opens. This is an effective choice if you have a door with purely pedestrian access or can be easily reached from the vehicle. Depending on whether you have safeties already installed, you have the option to increase your control through the use of an ‘inch down’ system which ensures that the operator must keep their finger on the button at all times in order for it to operate or a ‘push to run’ system in which you can simply press the button and leave. 

 

Another option which you could consider is the use of remote controls or fobs. Unlike the buttons, these allow your forklift drivers to remain in their vehicles whilst operating the door. Once again, the operator is in full control of the door and helps not only to save time but to help reduce the chances of damage through accidental impacts – although it can still happen due to human error. Remote controls may not be the best choice if you have a multiple doors making use of the same frequency as they can cause interference and, as each forklift would need to have their own remote, it can add to your total costs over time. 

 

Another option is to install induction loops. These are sensors that create a magnetic field to detect metal objects and are placed underground in front of the door. The sensitivity of the sensors can be set so they only detect large metal objects down to the metal on people’s Toetectors. These can help ensure that your door does not remain open longer than necessary but can be affected by traffic crossing across the loop. 

 

One way to combat this is to use a Falcon or a Condor sensor. These sit above the door and use radar and microwaves to determine when the door will open or close. These sensors can be programmed to only open for vehicles as well as detecting cross traffic through an area. Therefore, these sensors can help ensure that your door only opens when it is necessary – thus generating increased energy savings. 

 

Also, the fact that the sensors detect and operate automatically means that you can rest assured that they are both accurate and reliable. The sensors can detect movement on both sides of the door meaning that it will neither open early or close early but also inactivity. This helps ensure not only the safety of your personnel and vehicles but also that the door remains shut when not in use which saves you unnecessary operation cycles, time and money. 

 

Of course, each door and site are different and some of the available options may not be the best for you or your site. To be sure that your investment will gain the best return, you should speak to one of our experts. On your free site visit we will be able to assess your needs and use our almost 50 years of experience within the sector to advise you on the best set up for you and your business. Contact us here