The story of the invention of automatic doors dates back to ancient times, where it is said they were first used in Egypt in tombs. Today, these modern doors have become an essential part of daily life, seen in airports, residential areas, banks, hospitals, offices, and industrial units, playing a key role in the movement of millions of people around the world.
Ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece witnessed the early use of automatic doors. The Greeks designed them in their buildings using bronze and marble instead of wood to provide greater security and durability. While they may not have been the very first to create this type of door, their innovation of the first mechanical model in the world paved the way for the development of modern automatic doors, which are now a common feature worldwide.“The evolution of automatic doors through the ages reflects humanity’s ability to utilize technology to simplify daily life, from ancient temples to modern smart buildings.”Technology and Engineering Experts
Who Invented Automatic Doors?
Historians believe that the first automatic door designed in a way similar to modern doors was invented by the scientist and engineer Hero (Heron) in the 1st century AD. He authored two books titled *Pneumatica* and designed a system based on ropes and pulleys, along with a hydraulic mechanism using water displacement to operate the doors of a temple in Alexandria. In the 17th century, China also used automatic doors, according to historian Joseph Needham in his book *Science and Civilization in China* (published in 1986), during the reign of Emperor Yang of Sui between 604 and 618 AD.Modern Development of Automatic Doors
Modern advancements in automatic doors did not appear until the 20th century. In 1931, Americans Horace Raymond and Sheldon S. developed an optical device for opening automatic doors. This invention was used at Wilcox’s Pier restaurant in 1954. In the 1960s, Dee Horton and Lew Hewitt invented the first automatic door operated by a floor mat, which contributed to the widespread use of these doors in banks, hotels, and shopping centers. In the 1970s, motion sensors were developed and used to open automatic doors, greatly improving accessibility for people with disabilities. In the 1980s, automatic revolving doors appeared, and motion detection technologies became more widely adopted. In the 1990s, touch-activated automatic doors were introduced, and with continuous technological advancements, these doors have become widely used around the world.- Early beginnings in ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece.
- Hero’s invention of a rope- and hydraulic-based system in the 1st century AD.
- Modern development in the 20th century using optical devices and sensors.
- Global spread of automatic doors thanks to motion and sensing technologies.