Dave, Modular Commercial Door Operator

The brief challenged Dave to leverage technology and deliver a more efficient commercial solution that would disrupt the global commercial door automation market. The operator was to incorporate a more complex motor with interchangeable clutches and be compatible with three power supply systems across the US, Australian and New Zealand markets. Key priorities included simplifying product specification, installation and repair of the system, reducing SKUs, and enhancing durability, utility, and user trust. The design also aimed to break away from dated and typical styling, establishing a distinct brand identity for AT in the commercial space in contemporary and future contexts.

Dave is a commercial solution prioritising safety, security, and efficiency. By consolidating multiple SKUs into a single, configurable unit, it enables faster, more streamlined installation. Its distinct design language positions AT in the market, tailored for modern and future environments. The operator is fully configurable on-site for left or right placement in various mounting scenarios, and the power cartridge is separated from mechanical components for correct installation and flexibility. The installer’s handle simplifies transport and mounting, and is an industry first. The wireless wall console reduces installation time and materials, enhancing safety with ground-level setup, improving OHS compliance.

This project marks a return to AT’s innovative roots, expanding beyond its residential focus with B&D, launching Dave as a global commercial platform. Designed to drive US growth, Dave introduces a new visual language and technological foundation for future products. Prioritising sustainability, Dave is built for longevity, repairability, and disassembly, with modular, upgradeable components, and durable materials to extend lifespan and reduce waste, while smart motor technology maximises energy efficiency. Socially, Dave improves safety and accessibility through streamlined installation, a wireless-first wall console, and hands-free operation. Reducing SKUs and promoting repair over replacement, Dave sets a new industry standard.

Dave is a single, modular commercial door operator designed to cover almost any configuration – sectional or rolling, high or low voltage, left or right mount. Ambidextrous by design, side changes take under five minutes. Two Omnivolt™ swappable power cartridges allow for global compatibility. Weighing just 13.5kg, Dave is significantly lighter than industry competitors and enables fast, single-person installs. The modular installer’s handle is unique to the market, also functioning as a ruler, spirit level, and straight edge. Wireless-first accessories, including wall console and PE safety beams, come pre-paired to save installation time, with an option for wiring if use-cases require. Dave lifts up to 1000kg and can run at up to 60% duty cycle, powered by a high-efficiency (97%) Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor – a first in commercial operators, and the same technology used in advanced robotics and electric vehicles. Proprietary Automatic Technology features include LiftMate™ for instant manual hauling chain operation during outages, SureTrack™ absolute positioning encoder to precisely monitor door travel, and ProfileIQ™ machine learning that continually adapts to the door’s performance over time. No need for sprockets, extra parts, or complex setup - all that’s needed is to follow the simple, guided commissioning prompts. Dave has an IP54 rating.