Accelerometer vs Tilt Sensor: Key Differences Explained

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

Accelerometer Sensor

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

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.