Short Answer
A constant contact key switch is a safety control method requiring the operator to hold the key switch during the full open or close cycle. This ensures controlled movement, reduces risk during operation, and is commonly used in architectural operable wall systems.
It is a requirement that the constant contact key switch control box is within full view of the opening.
Expanded Insight
In architectural-grade operable wall systems, opening and closing is often deliberate rather than frequent. Safety expectations reflect that.
A constant contact key switch serves two purposes:
- ensures an operator is present and attentive during movement
- allows immediate stop capability by releasing the key
This matters in large systems where panels are heavy, and openings can span substantial widths. In DoorWall Systems’ lineup, the Arc3D™ Duo and Arc3D™ Solo DoorWalls operate this way, and their open/close cycles can take up to approximately 90 seconds, depending on size and configuration.
Architects should treat constant contact control as a performance feature, not a drawback. It is aligned with how these systems are typically used: low-cycle, slow-to-open | slow-to-close, often once-per-day transitions that prioritize safety and precision.
