How to divide space is a factor that designers and architects must consider. For clients who need to quickly change their workspace layout or maximize the use of limited space, movable partition walls are an ideal solution. For the past few decades, we have primarily used manual movable partitions, but with the development of automation and intelligence, automatic movable partitions are becoming popular and an essential upgrade option.
This article compares the differences, advantages, costs, and maintenance of manual and automatic movable partition walls, and helps you choose the best solution for your project.
What is Manual Movable Partition Walls?
Manual movable partition walls achieve space division or merging needs by manually moving, stacking, and locking the panels by staff. The panels typically slide along a top track system and are sealed using manual mechanisms (such as retractable seals and locks).
Key Benefits:
- Easy Operation: The door panels are suspended on tracks via a pulley system, ensuring smooth and effortless operation, even by a single person.
- Economical and Durable: Consisting mainly of tracks, pulleys, and door panels, the initial investment cost is low. Without the electric drive system, the structure is stable and durable.
- Easy Maintenance: Only periodic cleaning of the tracks and regular checks for pulley are required to ensure smooth door operation. The initial cost and long-term maintenance costs are both low.
What is Automatic Movable Partition Walls?
Automatic movable partition walls use electric motors and control systems to move the panels, extend the retractable seals and position the panels, the whole process without manual operation. Operation is usually controlled by a wall switch, remote control, touch screen or mobile APP.
Key Benefits:
- One-Touch Operation: With just the press of a button, the electric partition wall moves quickly, requiring no additional manual operation.
- Time and Labor Saving: Regardless of the size of the movable partition, the electric partition only requires one person to operate, and the completion time is 3-5 times faster than manual partitions.
- Advanced Function Integration: Electric movable wall can be equipped with optional features such as LCD screens and smart glass panels for display purposes.
Comparison of Manual and Automatic Movable Walls
| Feature | Manual Movable Wall | Automatic Movable Wall |
| Operation | Hand operated | Full Automated |
| Investment Cost | Lower | Higher |
| STC | 38-58db | 38-58db |
| Speed | Low | Fast |
| Power Required | No | Yes |
| Door Panel | Solid/Glass | Solid/Glass/LED screen |
Which Movable Wall Should you Choose?
Choose the operable wall according to the following specifications:
Choose Manual Movable Wall If:
You have a limited budget.
The operable walls are rarely used.
Multiple stack areas or complex operating routes。
Choose Automatic Movable Wall If:
The operable wall needs to be moved many times a day.
You want to provide a premium, high-tech experience for clients or guests.
The operable wall height is more than 5 meters or the length is more than 15 meters.
The door panels are LED screen or smart glass.
Summary
Manual or Automatic Movable Partition Walls allow for maximum flexibility in your use of space. Other factors when selecting a system include your budget, the size of the space using the products, how often it will be used, and the desired performance of the product.
YY Walls offers complete consultation services, including drawings and technical assistance, to help you decide which system would be the best fit for your specific application.