Terminology » Components » Accelerometer vs Tilt Sensor: Key Differences Explained

Accelerometer vs Tilt Sensor: Key Differences Explained

sensor accelerometer tilt measurement electronic

This article compares accelerometer sensors and tilt sensors, highlighting the key differences between them.

Accelerometer Sensor

Accelerometer schematic structure

Figure 1: Accelerometer schematic structure

Accelerometers are versatile sensors with the following features:

  • Axis Models: Available in one, two, or three-axis configurations.
  • Function: Detect the magnitude and direction of acceleration.
  • Applications:
    • Three-axis versions are commonly used in smartphones.
    • Two-axis versions are often found in cars.
  • Sensitivity: High-sensitivity accelerometers can measure acceleration more easily than low-sensitivity models.
  • Tilt Sensing: An accelerometer can be used as a tilt sensor. However, the reverse isn’t always true. For example, a mercury-based tilt sensor cannot measure acceleration.

Tilt Sensor

MEMS gyroscope

Figure 2: MEMS gyroscope used as a tilt sensor

Tilt sensors, on the other hand, function more like simple switches:

  • Function: Primarily an ON/OFF level switch that indicates whether it is tilted.
  • Operation:
    • The internal contact opens when tilted.
    • The contact remains closed when there is no tilt.
    • The contact only opens upon physical tilting.
  • Axes: Tilt sensors often measure tilting in two axes of a reference plane.

Mercury Tilt Switch Ball type tilt switch