Patent attributes
A door release system including a capacitive circuit that includes a touch bar, a microprocessor within the touch bar programmed with noise-discrimination software to sense touching of the bar, and at least one micro-switch within the bar to function as a back-up that picks up movement of the bar to release the latch should the capacitive circuit fail. Optionally, a sign illuminated by LEDs and an antimicrobial coating/treatment may be applied to the bar. The system is intended for use on magnetically locked doors. The addition of the micro-switches that are actuatable by continued movement on the touch bar after the bar is initially touched provides a redundant access function initiated by other than the capacitive effect of human touch, which is expected to simplify use and ease accessibility for personnel with prosthetics or who may otherwise have their hands occupied.
