Automatic doors are movable doors that close or open automatically at a walkway and are normally used for entrances and exits. These systems are complex and can be potentially hazardous pieces of equipment. In deferred condition, automatic doors can exhibit significant forces that can lead to life threatening injuries. This is why the emphasis on safety is the primary basis for automatic door standards, and the reason that improved designs and newer technology products have taken over.

One of the latest technologies released for automatic doors is related to motor and electronics technology used.
New concepts based on moving-coil linear motors with built-in drive electronics, have been used resulting in more compact and more silent mechanisms, with smoother movements and with an increased reliability. The required maintenance and wire harness have been reduced dramatically.