Washing machine vibration detection Using Reed Sensors

Reed Switches are used in bi-directional vibration sensors. These sensors are used in a Washing machine to detect vibration going above set limits. This is important since vibration could damage motor couplings and bearings in the washing machine. The Washing machine itself could also move around the area.

A magnet and a very precise tension spring is inserted into a cylindrical housing along with a special lubricant and sealed on both ends. Two of these cylindrical assemblies are mounted on either side of a reed switch in such a way that their magnets face opposite direction. This vibration sensor is use in a washing machine to detect if it is moving around during the drying cycle.

Depending on the amplitude of the vibrations that need to be sensed, a combination of different tension springs with different sizes of magnets are designed into vibration sensors to sensor the different levels of vibration. During the drying cycle, when the vibration of the washing machine drum exceeds a limit over which the washing machine itself will start to move around, the magnets actuate the reed switch. Vibration sensors can be built to detect vibrations from 1G to 10G in Normally Open and Normally Closed versions.

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 -> Sep 29, 2024

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.

Ultra Miniature Reed Switch, UM-0018-H

Full Length LeadsCropped LeadsSMD Formed LeadsFormed Leads for Horizontal MountingFormed Leads for Vertical Mounting starFeatures7.0 Continue reading -> Sep 29, 2024

Micro Miniature Reed Switch, MM-1018

Full Length LeadsCropped LeadsSMD Formed LeadsLeads Formed for Horizontal MountingLeads Formed for Vertical Continue reading -> Sep 29, 2024

Ultra Miniature PCB Mountable Reed Sensor, MS-104

Drawing of MS-104Drawing of MS-104 Pad Layout starFeatures5W Contact Rating. 10.1 mm PCB Pitch. Normally Open contact. Two Continue reading -> Sep 29, 2024