Differences and Connection Between Elevator Light Curtains and Elevator Door Photoelectric Switches
In modern elevator safety systems, infrared sensing technology has become the core of door protection. Among these technologies, the elevator light curtain and the elevator door photoelectric switch are two common yet easily confused devices. Both can detect obstacles at the elevator entrance and prevent accidents, but they differ significantly in working principle, detection range, and application scenario.
Today, the technical team from A-FLY Elevator & Escalator Parts Supplier will explain their differences and connection in detail.
1. What Is an Elevator Light Curtain?
An elevator light curtain is an intelligent anti-pinch system based on infrared beam transmission. It consists of an emitter and a receiver installed on both sides of the elevator door, forming an invisible “light wall” made up of multiple infrared beams.
When a person or object enters the detection zone, the infrared beam is interrupted, and the system immediately sends a signal to the door control unit, instructing the elevator door to stop closing and reverse to reopen.
Core Advantages of Elevator Light Curtains:
Non-contact detection with ultra-fast response (as short as 20 milliseconds).
High beam density providing a wide detection range (up to 194 beams).
Applicable for commercial, residential, and hospital elevators.
High safety performance—effectively prevents trapping of people or objects.
A-FLY’s elevator light curtain series adopts high-sensitivity infrared sensors and anti-interference chips, ensuring stable performance even in environments with strong light, dust, or humidity.
2. What Is an Elevator Door Photoelectric Switch?
An elevator door photoelectric switch is an earlier form of infrared detection device primarily used for door position detection or object sensing at specific points.
It is composed of a light-emitting element and a light-sensitive receiver, which detect reflected or transmitted light to sense objects or door positions.
In elevator systems, the photoelectric switch is often used for:
Detecting whether the door has reached a preset position.
Confirming whether the door is fully opened or closed.
Acting as a limit or control signal source within the door operator system.
Compared with light curtains, photoelectric switches have fewer detection points and a narrower sensing range. They are mainly used for door operation control, not as the primary safety protection for passengers.
3. Key Differences Between the Two Devices
Although both rely on infrared sensing, they differ in both function and structure:
Detection Method:
The light curtain forms a continuous detection zone through multiple infrared beams, while the photoelectric switch typically detects at a single point.
Application Purpose:
The light curtain focuses on passenger safety and anti-pinch protection, whereas the photoelectric switch is designed for door operation control and position feedback.
Detection Range:
The light curtain covers the entire doorway—from floor to door top—providing full protection. The photoelectric switch, however, has a much smaller sensing distance (usually within 30 cm to 1 m).
Installation Position:
The light curtain is mounted on both sides of the door frame, while the photoelectric switch is generally installed inside the door operator mechanism or track structure to detect specific movement signals.
4. How They Work Together to Ensure Safety
Despite their differences, the elevator light curtain and the photoelectric switch complement each other rather than compete.
In a modern elevator system:
The light curtain handles obstacle detection and anti-pinch protection.
The photoelectric switch monitors the door’s position, movement status, and control signals.
Together, they form a comprehensive door safety and control system, ensuring every door movement is accurate, smooth, and secure.
5. A-FLY — Reliable Supplier of Global Elevator Safety Components
As a professional elevator and escalator parts supplier, A-FLY specializes in elevator safety detection and control systems. Our product range includes:
Elevator Door Photoelectric Switches
Elevator Door Operator Systems
Elevator Door Locks and Limit Switches
Elevator Door Rollers and Guide Wheels
All A-FLY products are compatible with major elevator brands and are widely used in new installations, modernization, and maintenance projects around the world.
6. Conclusion: Intelligent Detection, Instant Protection
Although the elevator light curtain and the photoelectric switch work on different principles, they share the same mission — to make elevators safer and smarter.
The light curtain protects passengers through intelligent sensing, while the photoelectric switch ensures accurate control and reliable door operation.
Together, they form the core safety foundation of the modern elevator system.
A-FLY Elevator & Escalator Parts Supplier continues to deliver high-quality, reliable elevator safety solutions with advanced technology and consistent quality.
Choose A-FLY — where safety is within reach, and trust rises with every level.
