Tilt Sensor: Understanding Tilt Sensing Equipment

This page explores tilt sensors and the equipment used for tilt sensing. A tilt sensor is a device that detects the inclination of a surface within tilt sensing equipment. We’ll also touch on tilt sensor manufacturers and vendors.

Tilt sensing equipment is used to determine if a surface is flat and horizontal in relation to the Earth’s surface. These devices rely on tilt sensors for their operation.

How Tilt Sensors Work

Tilt sensors often utilize a liquid medium to detect the degree of tilt. This is achieved by measuring the flow or displacement of the liquid within the sensor. The liquid used must be non-corrosive and electrically conductive. Common liquids like water, acids, and toxic chemicals are unsuitable for this purpose.

Mercury is often considered an ideal liquid for tilt sensors due to its advantageous characteristics:

• It doesn’t readily evaporate under normal conditions.
• It’s an excellent conductor of electricity.
• It’s non-corrosive.

Image: Tilt sensor

The image above illustrates a basic tilt sensing setup using tilt sensors. Simple hardware, when combined with tilt sensors, can detect tilt in four different directions. To determine the tilt of a surface, the tilt sensor unit is placed directly on the surface. A sticker is often placed beneath the sensor to prevent slippage and ensure accurate readings.

Tilt Sensor Manufacturers and Vendors

Here’s a list of some manufacturers and vendors specializing in tilt sensors:

• SparkFun Electronics
• DIGIKEY
• TE Connectivity Ltd.
• MEMSIC, Inc
• OMRON
• Fredericks Company