Burton Blatt Institute at Syracuse University installs Norton Door Operators for low profile and high security

 

Location:

The Burton Blatt Institute (BBI) at Syracuse University

Syracuse, New York

 

The Challenge:

Dineen Hall recently underwent interior renovations. Unfortunately, its existing aluminum frame doors with glass transoms were not designed to handle the weight of standard power door operators. Specifications required a low- profile operator that would not only blend with BBI's impressive interior but that could also tie into the facility's existing access control system.

 

Background:

The Burton Blatt Institute (BBI) at Syracuse University reaches around the globe to advance the civic, economic, and socialparticipation of people with disabilities. It builds on the legacy of Burton Blatt, former dean of SU's School of Education and a pioneering disability rights scholar. The BBI employs professionals across a variety of fields, including lawyers, policymakers, pyschologists, social workers, and economists to better the lives of people with disabilities. 

Officially launched in 2005, BBI is housed in Dineen Hall, the stunning home of Syracuse University's College of Law. Dineen Hall was constructed in 2014 and is recognized as one of the 50 Most Impressive Law School Buildings in the World by Best Choice Schools.

The Solution:

After exploring available options, BBI selected Norton 6300 Series operators. Because 6300 Series operators are designed to accomodate doors up to 48 inches wide, they were installed to span the entire opening of the existing aluminum doors and attach securely to both sides of the frame and header - enabling the University to retain the many existing door frames. In addition, because the 6300 Series operators have one of the slimmest profiles available, they blend seamlessly with BBI's existing door frames. 

Chris Stewart, Syracuse University's Associate Director of Administration and Technical Services, highlighted another crucial benefit. "Because 6300 operators have built-in relay boards, we avoided the expense of third-party relays to integrate the openers with our access control system."

The 6300 Series also enables facilities like BBI to meet Americans with  Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements by enabling occupants to operate doors via push buttons, wave switches or hands-free radio frequency devices.

It has a modular, four-piece design that allows for easy installation by one  individual and includes a robust set of intelligent functions such as power close, latch assist and obstruction detection.

"We're so pleased with this solution, we've also specified to use them in the National Veterans Resource Center, Syracuse University's newest building," Stewart added.