National Automatic Door Day
What is National Automatic Door Day?
National Automatic Door Day, celebrated annually on March 19, honors the convenience, accessibility, and innovation of automatic doors. These modern marvels simplify daily life by providing touch-free access to buildings, promoting hygiene, and ensuring inclusivity for people with mobility challenges.
Quick Facts
- When is it? March 19
- Tagged as: Accessibility, Innovation, Hygiene
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalAutomaticDoorDay
- When was it founded? 2021
- Who founded it? The American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers (AAADM)
History of National Automatic Door Day
The day was established in 2021 by the AAADM to celebrate the role of automatic doors in modern life. These doors have evolved from simple conveniences to essential tools for accessibility and public health. The idea of automatic doors dates back to ancient Greece, but American engineers Dee Horton and Lew Hewitt revolutionized them in 1954 with sensor-based designs. By 1960, these doors became commercially available and widely adopted.
Timeline
- 1st Century A.D.: Heron of Alexandria describes an early automatic door mechanism.
- 1931: Horace Raymond and Sheldon Roby invent an early automatic door for restaurants.
- 1954: Dee Horton and Lew Hewitt develop sensor-based automatic doors.
- 2021: AAADM establishes National Automatic Door Day.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 19 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | March 19 | Thursday |
| 2027 | March 19 | Friday |
| 2028 | March 19 | Sunday |
| 2029 | March 19 | Monday |
| 2030 | March 19 | Tuesday |
Observed
National Automatic Door Day is observed by appreciating the convenience and innovation of automatic doors. People are encouraged to visit places with automatic doors, share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #NationalAutomaticDoorDay, and learn about the history of these technological advancements.
Fun Facts About Automatic Doors
- The first commercial automatic door was installed in a Connecticut restaurant in 1931.
- Nearly 99% of consumers prefer automatic doors over manual ones.
- Ancient Greeks used heat-powered mechanisms to operate temple gates automatically.
Quiz
- Who invented the modern sensor-based automatic door?
- (Answers: Dee Horton and Lew Hewitt)
- When was National Automatic Door Day first celebrated?
- (Answers: 2021)
- What is the hashtag for this day?
- (Answers: #NationalAutomaticDoorDay)
FAQs
Why is National Automatic Door Day celebrated?
To honor the role of automatic doors in improving accessibility, hygiene, and convenience in daily life.
Who can participate in this celebration?
Everyone! From architects and builders to everyday users who appreciate the ease of automatic doors.
How can I celebrate this day?
Visit buildings with automatic doors, share your experiences online using #NationalAutomaticDoorDay, or learn about their history.
Importance of National Automatic Door Day
This day highlights how technology can make public spaces more inclusive and hygienic. It reminds us of the importance of designing spaces that cater to everyone, including those with mobility challenges.
Related
- International Accessibility Awareness Day
- World Architecture Day
- Global Handwashing Day