Electrolytictilt - Fredericks Company - #2

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Selection: The selection of the proper sensor depends on the range of the angle being measured and the sensitivity required. If the measurement is to find a precise gravity reference for leveling sensitive instruments or equipment, a single axis horizontal vial (banana) type level would be used. These types of levels have sensitivities of less than an arc second with a range of a few degrees. For larger angle measurements, a vertical pool type level would be used. These types of levels can have a range of up to plus/minus 90 degrees or greater. They are available in single or dual axis. Operation: The electrolytic tilt sensor provides an output voltage that is proportional to the tilt angle. In a single axis level there are three electrodes, a common electrode and two outer electrodes. A dual axis level has five electrodes, a common and four outer electrodes. As the level is tilted, the fluid inside the level covers more or less of the outer electrodes depending on the direction of tilt. This causes the conductive path to present a ratio between the electrodes (see figure #2). It can be compared to a potentiometer with the wiper being the common electrode (see figure #3). FIGURE #2 – Basic level types.
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