PORTAL CELL: SAFETY AND OPERATION EXPLAINED

What are automatic gate sensors used for and why are they essential for safety?

Cells for automatic gates, also known as photocells, play a fundamental role in securing motorized access. These optical sensors detect the presence of an obstacle in the path of the gate, thus preventing any risk of accident or material damage.

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A safety device to prevent accidents

When an automatic gate is in motion, a pedestrian, vehicle or other object may be in its path. Without detection, there is a risk of crushing or collision. These situations can be avoided by immediately cutting motor power or reversing gate movement when an obstacle is detected.

This detection principle is particularly crucial in collective and public environments, such as condominiums, parking lots or businesses, where traffic frequency is high and user safety must be guaranteed.

An obligation to comply with safety standards

Photocells are mandatory when :

• The gate does not have sufficient other safety devices (such as safety edges or force detection). If the gate operates only with a motor without built-in obstacle detection, photocells must be installed.
• The gate is in automatic mode (or semi-automatic with automatic closing). If the gate closes by itself after a programmed delay, photocells are essential to avoid any risk of crushing.
• The gate gives access to a public or collective space (condominiums, businesses, parking lots open to the public). In these environments, security rules are stricter than for private residential use.
• The passageway is used by pedestrians. If people regularly use the gate's passage area, the installation of a detection system is recommended, if not mandatory, to avoid accidents.

How does a detection cell work?

Operating principle

A photocell is an optical sensor placed on the gate pillar that detects the presence of an obstacle by means of a continuous infrared beam. When this beam is interrupted, the detection system sends a signal to the gate's control unit to stop or reverse its movement. To prevent accidents, the module reacts immediately (within milliseconds).

Then, depending on the situation, there are two possibilities:

- If the obstacle disappears quickly, the gate will resume movement after a short delay.

- Conversely, if the obstruction persists, the gate remains blocked until the beam is re-established.

Differences between cell types

There are 2 main typologies:

Transmitter-receiver cell (classic)

It consists of two separate elements: a transmitter that sends the infrared beam, and a receiver that receives it on the other side of the gate. This is the most reliable system, but requires wiring between the two elements. It is therefore important to work with a professional installer to ensure safe installation.

Reflective cell (or monoblock)

It consists of a single housing with integrated emitter and receiver. A reflector is placed in front to reflect the infrared beam. In France, they are prohibited in condominiums because of their sensitivity to climatic conditions, which makes them too insecure. In the private sector, they are also rare in France, but this system remains very popular in the USA for its easy installation.

➡️ Discover all photocell types in detail

Different photocell models are available, depending on the specific needs of the installation: recessed or free-standing, wired or battery-powered(battery or lithium battery), or with vandal-proof reinforcement.