Electric-Contact Tilt Sensors: A Review

A review of various kinds of solid tilts sensors, using a free mechanical member for generation of electric-contact (mostly a ball), is presented. Standard and original solutions are discussed. The latest patents are described. A classification of the existing solutions with respect to their sensing principle is proposed. Possible types of the electric/electronic circuits are discussed. Advantages of these sensors are emphasized: mainly optional operation without power supply, resistance to electrostatic discharges, and simplicity of signal processing. Technological details are briefly introduced, along with miniaturization prospects. Additionally, liquid tilt sensors are succinctly characterized. The most typical tilt sensing techniques are concisely compared.

Automated summary

This paper presents various kinds of solid tilt sensors using a free mechanical member, typically a ball, for electric-contact generation. It discusses standard and original solutions, describes the latest patents, proposes a classification based on sensing principles, and explores possible electric/electronic circuit types and technological details. Additionally, liquid tilt sensors are briefly characterized and the most typical tilt sensing techniques are concisely compared.