• VDS Simply SL600 sliding gate operator for 600kg gates.
• Mechanism mounting base with screws and anchors
• Manual release keys for the mechanism (2 pcs) 
• Limit switch activation brackets
• Detailed instructions written in Greek
• ProfelmNet PSD-36T remote control at 433.92 MHz, 4 pcs
• Metal rack, 4m
• Wired photocells, 1 set
• Warning flashing light, 1 pc
• Key switch (keypad) 1, pc
• External antenna, 1 pc

The VDS Simply SL600 (Kit-Deluxe) S set is a super-complete kit for installing an operator on a garage door. Other materials can be added to it depending on your needs. (extra rack for a larger gate, extra remote controls for more users, etc.)

Criteria for installing the VDS Simply SL600 mechanism on your gate

 Sliding garage door with mechanism - Features

A classic sliding gate arrangement with a mechanism naturally includes the gate leaf, which has rollers at its bottom. It is essential that the rollers are well maintained so as not to hinder the movement of the gate and the mechanism.

The rail, on which the rollers move, is securely fixed to the ground. The rail must be straight without bumps or deformations.

The gate leaf is held in an upright position by the guide rollers. The guide rollers are positioned so that they are always in contact with the gate from the fully open to the fully closed position. They must be stable and prevent the gate from deviating from its path, but without hindering its movement. They are installed at the top of the gate and in the middle of its travel.

The last accessories (for a gate without an operator) are the mechanical stops of the gate. The stops define the gate's travel, i.e., its final position both when opening and closing.

To automate a gate leaf, we install a metal (or plastic) rack. The rack is a toothed bar that cooperates with the motor's gear to transmit movement.

The motor is placed in the center of the gate's travel so that it always has contact with the gate. It has a gear that transmits movement from the mechanism to the gate via the rack.

Beyond the mechanism, an essential accessory for the overall safety of the construction are the safety photocells. Safety photocells are installed on either side of the opening and check if there is an obstacle in the gate's path. If an obstacle is detected during the gate's closing, the photocells signal the mechanism's control panel, and the gate's closing stops.

Also, for even greater safety, a safety flashing light could be installed, which gives a visual signal when the gate is in operation. It is usually installed when the gate is adjacent to busy roads, roads with heavy traffic, and in areas where visibility is limited.

Finally, in cases where the range of the remote controls is not as desired, an external antenna can be installed to amplify the signal.

VDS Simply SL600 Sliding Automation Base

The mechanism comes with a base specifically designed for proper and sturdy support. The foundation should preferably be made of concrete to ensure that the mechanism is properly supported. The diagram below shows the detailed dimensions of the VDS Simply SL600 mechanism base. The base has two holes that are positioned on the left as you look at the gate from the side where the rack (and the mechanism) is located.

To install the sliding mechanism base, follow these steps:

• Check the foundation and wiring. (The best solution is a reinforced concrete foundation with a conduit for the wiring.)
• Attach the square nuts to the bottom of the base.
• Install the base in position with metal expansion anchors (also known as "hammer-in" anchors).

Position of the VDS Simply SL600 sliding automation base

The base of the sliding garage door mechanism must be placed in a specific position for the motor to function correctly. Below, the exact point where the base should be placed is detailed, depending on whether the door opens to the right or to the left. (Left and right are defined as looking at the door from the side where the motor and rack are installed.)  

To find the correct position for the base, follow these steps:

1. Push the gate leaf manually to its completely closed position. Place the mechanism's base on the ground, at a distance of at least B from the edge of the gate leaf.
2. Push the gate leaf manually to the open position. The base must be at a distance C from the edge of the gate. If this is the case, proceed with the installation. If this condition is not met, there are 2 options:

• Compromise with the fact that the gate leaf will not open completely (but will open to the point where it reaches a distance C from the base). This solution is chosen if the clear opening is sufficient and what remains continues to meet our needs.
• Increase the length of the gate by extending the gate leaf. It can be extended along its entire height or only at the point where it comes into contact with the rack.
  
  

 Mechanism Installation (height) - Detailed Dimensions

The installation height of the mechanism is extremely important for the progress of the entire installation. What matters is the height in relation to the rack for their good cooperation. Often, the design of the gate determines where the rack will be placed so that there are attachment points for the rack on the gate. Below are detailed diagrams for the installation height of the mechanism for the case where the rack has been installed with the teeth downwards. (This is the recommended and most common solution)

H1= 18mm (motor mounting base height)
H2=72mm (base top to gear top)
H3=15mm (gear top to rack spacer axis)
H1+H2+H3=H1+H4+H5=105mm (base bottom to rack spacer axis)
H4=67mm (base top to rack bottom)
H5=20mm (rack bottom to rack spacer axis)
H6=10mm (spacer axis to rack top)
H1+H4=85mm (base bottom to rack bottom)
Ho= height of raised foundation (the base can be placed in a raised position for spatial reasons. In this case, the motor is protected, e.g., in case of flooding.

Based on the above dimensions, a preliminary check is performed before installing the mechanism. There are two cases:

• If a rack already exists, check if the height at which it has been installed is suitable in relation to the dimensions of the mechanism and the height at which its gear is positioned. If the dimensions do not match, either the mechanism's base will need to be raised (if the rack is high) or the rack's position will need to be changed (uninstallation and reinstallation).
• If there is no existing rack, check if there are available mounting points on the gate at the desired rack installation height. Otherwise, the entire assembly will need to be installed higher by modifying the foundation where the mechanism's base will be placed.

Metal rack

The metal rack is delivered in one-meter pieces. It is galvanized for greater resistance to external conditions. The cross-section of the rack is 12x30mm, the diametral pitch is 4 (module 4), and it has 3 spacers per piece. It can be installed on gate leaves with a maximum weight of 2 tons.

A key point of attention is the clearance that must exist between the gear and the rack. Ideally, this clearance should be 1.5mm. 

If this clearance does not exist, the mechanism is forced to carry the gate along its entire travel instead of simply pushing it. This will cause wear and tear, and sooner or later, operational problems will arise. It is installed by welding it to the gate.

In the opposite case, if the gap is large, the cooperation between the gear and the rack will not be correct, and vibrations and stresses will be created in the motor. Therefore, particular attention is required to create this gap.

Metal gear for VDS SL600 sliding mechanism

The metal gear reliably transmits movement from the mechanism to the garage door via the rack. It features protection to prevent accidents and the trapping of objects between the gear and the rack.

Autotech S5060T Control Panel for Sliding Gate Mechanisms

The Autotech S5060T control panel is included in the kit and is integrated into the mechanism. It is a control panel that combines simplicity of use with all necessary functions and has been tested over time. It works perfectly with the VDS SL600 mechanism.

Technical specifications:

• Features a socket for the mechanism's limit switches
• We can adjust the mechanism's force.
• There is a possibility for soft start and stop for less wear and tear on the mechanism and the garage door.
• Accepts safety photocells that interrupt movement when they detect an obstacle during door closing and initiate reverse movement (opening).
• There is an available setting for automatic door closing with the user choosing the start time of the closing. Photocell use is essential for automatic closing.
• There is an option for electric braking.
• The opening direction is adjusted with a microswitch.
• The panel can accept a push button (keypad or simple push button). 
• The panel can accept a 230VAC warning light without a flasher or a 230VAC lighting lamp.
• Features an integrated receiver with simple operation.
• User information regarding the mechanism's functions is provided by LED lights.

The above control panel has been tested by thousands of users and has proven to be extremely reliable. In addition, it features functions such as mechanism force adjustment, slow start and stop, which make it one of the best choices on the market today.

ProfelmNet PSD-36T remote controls at 433.92 MHz.

The ProfelmNet PSD-36T remote controls have an excellent design while being easy to use and simple both in their operation and programming. They have been tested by thousands of users and do not present problems. They can accept up to four commands from different mechanisms, which makes them convenient for users who have more than one automation in their daily use. 

Sliding mechanism installation process - Summary

 In brief, the steps for installing a sliding garage door mechanism are as follows:

• Check that the door operates smoothly manually.
• Check for existing wiring or install it.
• After checks, proceed with the installation of the motor base. Requires a stable foundation. Usually, a reinforced concrete base is the suitable solution.
• Mount the motor on the base.
• Install the rack.
• Install accessories. 
• Check the proper functioning of the assembly and explain all details to users for safe use.

The above are simply a summary of the steps for installing a sliding mechanism. Inside the mechanism's packaging, you will find detailed, step-by-step instructions, well-written and easy to follow. 

Manual operation of VDS SL600 sliding mechanism

The manual operation procedure for the VDS SL600 mechanism is a simple and easy process for all users. With the key, open the release cover and push it to the fully open position. The garage door now operates manually. By reversing the procedure (closing and locking the cover), you re-engage the mechanism.

Packaging of the VDS Simply SL600 (Kit-Deluxe) S mechanism set

The VDS Simply SL600 (Kit-Deluxe) S set is delivered in two packages. One contains the mechanism, remote controls, photocells, the flashing light, and any accessories that may have been ordered extra from the set.

The second package contains only the metal rack due to its weight and length.

The set is delivered ready for installation after being checked by our technicians and with the remote control configured.

Installation instructions for the sliding garage door kit

The kit comes with detailed instructions in Greek. They have been edited by us to be easy to follow even by people who are not directly involved in the field.

They contain detailed steps for each stage of the installation, from the motor base and the rack to accessories such as photocells and buttons. Detailed instructions are also included for the Autotech S-5060T control panel, which is integrated into the mechanism.