Door Industry Journal - Spring 2021

Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 22 THE door industry journal spring 2021 Industry News Demand Increases for Traffic Light Solutions IN2 Access & Control discusses popular traffic light systems requested during COVID restrictions Traffic lights have always been a popular product for IN2 Access. Even before current restrictions, various traffic light models featured regularly on the website’s top sellers. The introduction of social distancing rules last year has seen demand skyrocket not only for lights, but for complete systems to help businesses control the flow of people into and out of businesses. “Traffic light systems tend to fall into two categories,” says Derek Foreman, Sales & Marketing Director for IN2 Access. “Customers either want a fully automatic system that can switch the lights on their own, or a manually-controlled option where the operator can control the flow of people themselves. We’ve received lots of enquiries for both kinds, and have provided customised solutions of both based on each business’ unique layout or application.” Automatic Traffic Light Solutions Pros: No need for staff to monitor traffic flow, system can open and close automatic doors when connected to control panel Cons: more expensive than manual control systems, may require professional installation On one end of the spectrum are fully automated systems that switch the traffic light via sensors or cameras. People- Counting systems are popular for entrances with high foot fall areas. IN2 Access’ set up involves connecting an LED red/green traffic light to a bespoke control panel. Customers can then program the maximum number of people allowed into the space. Two sets of photocells mounted on either side of the door monitor when people are entering or exiting, turning the light red or green to indicate if the space has reached maximum capacity. “This system can work independently or in conjunction with automatic doors,” Derek explains. “It’s ideal for both smaller places (like office canteens) or larger places such as supermarkets or shops. It’s such a flexible solution allowing you to program the number of people you want to enter. Multiple lights and sensors can be set up in cases where there are multiple entrances or one entrance and one exit door.” A People-Counting system that uses a camera instead of photocells to detect people is another popular option. The camera is attached to a computer which then powers a monitor mounted outside the door. The monitor displays how many people are currently in the room as well as maximum capacity. Additionally, a custom-message such as ‘please wait here until someone exits’ can be programmed. “Strictly speaking, this system doesn’t use a traffic light,” Derek says. “But the display monitor gives more information and bespoke messaging – although that limits it’s use to places that are not as exposed to the elements. On the other hand, since a computer powers the system, logging and programming is easier.” Manually-Controlled Traffic Light Solutions Pros: Less expensive, ability for plug-and-play installation Cons: requires staff to monitor number of people and control light “These systems are very popular and amongst our top sellers,” explained Derek. “Their appeal lies in their flexibility, plug-n-play nature, and lower cost than automatic systems.” IN2 Access’ manually-controlled systems share a common architecture: customer chooses the traffic light, the type of manual controller, wired or wireless options, and connecting cable length.