Hand Brakes Automated Using Reed Sensors

An automatic hand brake represents a significant advancement in vehicle safety and convenience, integrating reed sensors to enhance functionality and reliability. Unlike traditional mechanical parking brakes, which require manual engagement and disengagement, automatic hand brakes use reed sensors to achieve seamless operation.
Reed sensors in automatic hand brakes help detect the position of the parking or handbrake button. When engaged, the reed sensor detects the magnetic field generated by the magnet , signalling the control unit to apply the brakes electro-mechanically. This eliminates the need for physical levers or cables, reducing complexity and improving interior space utilisation and also aids automation in engaging the parking brakes as soon as the drive lever is shirted to park position.
Reed sensors offer precise detection of the magnetic field, ensuring accurate engagement and disengagement of the parking brake system. Integrating reed sensors allows for a more compact design of the parking brake mechanism, freeing up valuable cabin space for other components or enhancing interior aesthetics and storage spaces. Automatic hand brakes equipped with reed sensors simplify the driving experience. Drivers can disengage the brake effortlessly with a push of a button, enhancing user convenience.
As automotive technology continues to evolve, reed sensors in automatic parking brakes are poised to support further advancements. Enhanced sensor capabilities could enable features such as intelligent parking assist systems, where the brake engages automatically based on sensor inputs from proximity detectors or vehicle sensors. Their integration ensures enhanced safety, reliability, and user convenience in modern vehicles. Moving forward, reed sensors are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of automotive safety and automation, setting new standards for performance and innovation in vehicle braking systems.
Application Classification
Applications are classified as Position Sensing, Pulse Counting, Electromagnetic or Relay, Temperature Sensing or Magnet Biasing types. This application is classified as follows and the link gives more information on best practices to help select the most suitable AT band and matching magnet.
Position sensing Type
![]() |
When an application requires the end position of a movement sensed, or the sensing of a part when it comes into a zone, or when the
Continue reading
Mar 21, 2025 |
Recommended Products
The Reed Switches and Sensors used in such normally closed applications need to be robust, durable and efficient in meeting a high life expectancy. Our engineers work hard in life testing our products under various conditions, and our intention is to ensure end product durability and life. Although we wouldn’t want to restrict any of our products for use in only certain applications, the recommended products for use in this application are listed below.
Standard Size Reed Sensor, R2
![]() |
R2-S Gull-wing SMD Formed Reed SensorR2-S Gull-wing SMD Formed Reed Sensor Pad LayoutR2-F Low Profile SMD Formed Reed SensorR2E-F Low
Continue reading
Mar 21, 2025 |
Reduced Miniature PCB Mountable Reed Sensor, MS-106
![]() |
Drawing of MS-106 Reed SensorDrawing of MS-106 Reed Sensor Pad Layout starFeatures10W Contact Rating. 15.2 mm PCB Pitch. Normally
Continue reading
Mar 21, 2025 |
Off-Centre Contact Reed Switch, MO-1422
![]() |
MO-1422 Miniature Off-Centre Contact Reed Switch with Full Length LeadsMO-1422 Miniature Off-Centre Contact Reed Switch with Cropped
Continue reading
Dec 2, 2024 |