[Shop-talk] Garage Door Sensor Challenge

[Steven Trovato]

Steve,

It is hard to figure this out without actually standing there and 
examining the situation.  The sensors don't have to be mounted with 
the hardware provided.  They just have to have a clear shot at each 
other.  Could you move the sensor further into the corner so that it 
is closer to where the man-door hinges are?  Perhaps that would put 
it out of the path of the door.  Of course you could extend this idea 
and put both of them anywhere you want, as long as they are pointing 
at each other.  This would allow the garage door to operate, but 
eliminate the safety feature.  This is probably not a good idea and 
possibly not legal.  I would certainly not do that if there are any 
children or pets around.  Actually, I would not do it at all.  The 
doors had the reversing feature long before the sensor beam system 
was implemented.  You can figure there was probably a reason for the 
additional level of safety.

If there is an expansion project underway, is it possible to make 
changes to the man-door?  I imagine you can't move it.  Could you 
have it open with the hinges on the other side, so it would swing 
away from the garage door?  Perhaps it would clear the sensor that way.

Sorry I don't have any better ideas for you at the moment.

-Steve T.