Reed Switches and Reed Sensors in Capsule Endoscopy
For most people, an endoscopy is extremely intrusive and uncomfortable. But, before a Gastroenterologist can fully diagnose a patient’s stomach problem, an endoscopy is usually recommended. This uses a slender tube with a light and a camera, that is inserted into the patient’s throat, into the esophagus and takes pictures of the stomach area, all while the patient is under duress.
Capsule Endoscopy circumvents problems in regular endoscopy. It is a small pill camera that consists of a battery, a camera and a radio-transmitter. This pill camera is swallowed by the patient undergoing endoscopy. Once swallowed, the pill is activated and turns the camera on within minutes of being swallowed. The camera then activates and starts taking pictures of the stomach and intestines, which are then transmitted to an external receiver.
The problem is that for such capsule endoscopy applications, the battery should be activated only at the time of consumption, and not when in a packed condition. This ensures that the shelf life is longer and hospitals and clinics can safely hold stock. This is where reed switches help. A tiny normally-closed reed sensor within the capsule, is connected to the battery circuit, and a magnet is embedded in the packaging. The Normally closed Reed Sensor in an open state ensures that the battery to the pill camera circuit remains isolated in packed condition. As soon as the package is opened and the pill is removed from the packaging , the battery powers the circuit.
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.
Magnet Biasing Type
 | Magnet Biasing type Vane application Some special field applications, for the sake of circuit logic, security concerns, or a power Continue reading Nov 30, 2020 |
Recommended Products
The Reed Switches and Sensors used in such 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.
R4 Ultra-miniature SMD Reed Sensor
 | These R4 ultra-miniature SMD reed sensors are designed for signal switching applications and have a size advantage over the standard size Continue reading Jun 4, 2021 |
UM-0018-M Ultra Miniature Reed Switch
 | This highly sensitive, Form A type, UM-0018-M Ultra Miniature Reed Switches are designed for switching high speed signal loads with an Continue reading Nov 8, 2022 |
R5B Ultra-miniature Normally Closed SMD Reed Sensor
 | R5B-S Reed Sensor DrawingR5B-S Reed Sensor Pad L:ayoutR5B Reed Sensor Carrier Tape starFeatures5W Contact Rating. Normally Closed Continue reading Nov 30, 2020 |