Tilt Switch

Image of a tilt switch that can be attached with the use of a velcro strap from Enabling Devices. This rendition of the tilt switch can be attached to various parts of the users’ body and activated when the user tilts that body part.

Image from Arduino showing the working of a ball-tilt switch sensor. On the left, the sensor is upright with a ball positioned at the top of the sensor, keeping the circuit open (represented by A and B not connected). On the right, when the sensor is tilted, the ball moves and connects the two contacts (A and B), closing the circuit.

Purpose

Tilt switches are used to detect orientation changes and can serve as an accessible input device for individuals with mobility impairments. They are commonly utilized in assistive technology to enable interaction with electronic devices through simple tilting motions, without pressing or directly clicking contact in another way. This can be especially beneficial if a person has difficulty moving their limbs.

Purchasing and Price

Ready-Made switches on the market:

Enabling device Tilt Switch, $49.95
School of Health Adaptivation Dispsy Tilt Switch, $55.99

DIYs

DIY 1: Tilt Switch

Expertise Required

Basic soldering skills
Understanding of simple circuits
Ability to follow wiring diagrams

Materials Required

A metal ball ($3.33)
90 degr male header ($9.99)
Silicone tube or any type of plastic (non-conductive) tube($7.59)
Glue, solder, and soldering iron

Instructions

Follow along on with the Tilt Switch DIY Walkthrough for a step-by-step guide on assembling your tilt switch

Results from our team’s recreation of DIY

To make the DIY easier and cheaper, we used simple materials like a boba straw and regular drinking straw in place of silicone tubing, and assembled the circuit directly on a breadboard without a veroboard.

Picture of Tilt Switch prototype on breadboard connected to a power supply via electrical wires

We tested two different metal ball sizes (8mm and 6mm) and found that both worked equally well, with performance depending more on the alignment of the pins. Angling the pins outward improved contact reliability, but the connection overall is not as perfect as a button switch for example. Note: The switch only activates on one side where the ball completed the circuit.

Image of different metal ball sizes, measuring performance on the alignment of pins all connected to a breadboard

We also created a version using cardboard and hot glue, showing that a breadboard isn’t necessary if connections are secure though soldering or carefully placed alligator clips are needed. For durability, replacing cardboard with plastic and housing the switch in a 3D-printed enclosure is recommended. Overall, the tilt switch worked pretty effectively with minimal components and provided a low-cost, customizable alternative.

Picture of pin alignment inside a straw tube with a ball. Placed on top of a piece of cardboard paper