Sun Visor Vanity mirrors use Reed Sensors

Automobiles are equipped with sun visors designed to shield drivers and passengers from the sun’s glare. These visors often feature a convenient vanity mirror underneath, complete with a sliding cover that activates a small lamp for nighttime use. When the slide is closed, not only does it protect the mirror, but it also switches off the lamp. However, should the lamp be inadvertently left on while the sun visor is closed, a failsafe mechanism ensures it turns off automatically.
This failsafe mechanism relies on the integration of a reed sensor and magnet within the visor assembly. Positioned discreetly inside the shaft, the reed sensor detects the presence of the magnet attached to the swiveling visor. When the visor is closed, the magnet aligns with the sensor, triggering the automatic shutdown of the lamp, thus conserving energy and preventing potential hazards.
Similarly, within the sliding mirror assembly, another reed sensor and magnet combination are employed. This setup ensures that when the slide is closed over the mirror, signaling the end of its use, the reed sensor detects the magnet’s proximity and initiates the lamp’s deactivation.
By harnessing the reliability and efficiency of reed sensor technology, automobile manufacturers can enhance the functionality of sun visors and vanity mirrors while prioritizing safety and energy conservation. These intelligent systems seamlessly integrate into the vehicle’s interior, providing drivers and passengers with added convenience and peace of mind on the road.
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 this sun visor application 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.
Micro Miniature Reed Sensor, R3
![]() |
R3S Miniature Reed Sensor drawingR3S Reed Sensor PCB Layout drawingR3F Miniature Reed Sensor drawingR3F Reed Sensor PCB Layout drawingR3
Continue reading
Mar 21, 2025 |
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 |
Ultra Miniature Cylindrical Magnet Sensor, MS-212
![]() |
MS-212 Magnet Sensor Drawing starFeatures10W Contact Rating. Normally Open contact. Two sensitivity bands. Sputtered Ruthenium
Continue reading
Sep 28, 2024 |
Miniature Cylindrical Magnet Sensor, MS-214
![]() |
Drawing of MS-214 Magnet Sensor starFeatures10W Contact Rating. Normally Open contact. Three sensitivity bands. Sputtered Ruthenium
Continue reading
Sep 28, 2024 |