Kirby green LED

[fan-of-fans]

I've noticed on the Kirby vacuums, there is that green LED on the nozzle. From my understanding this LED is lighted when the brush is on?

I was wondering how the LED is powered? There does not seem to be any power connection between the motor/base and the nozzle.

Also did the LED first appear with the G3 model, or was it earlier?

 

[superocd]

That LED light is the brushroll indicator

There is a magnet in the brushroll which lines up with the LED light assembly. When the brushroll spins, the magnet passes over the windings within the LED assembly and thus generates enough current to light the LED. The LED lets you know that the brushroll is in operation. I think the indicator light became a thing on the Heritage II (Legend)? as my Legend has an indicator.

 

[texaskirbyguy]

Yep, totally inductive pickup.
The LED and pickup coil is in a self-contained unit. Magnet is in the brush roll.

 

[KirbyCollector01]

The Heritage II introduced the BPI light mid production (1986). It was briefly phased out in 1997 when the G5 came out. It was brought back on the other side of the nozzle shortly after.

 

[fan-of-fans]

Thanks for all the info! That is a very interesting setup, I never would have guessed it was self powered.

 

[huskyvacs]

Yup, it's some basic science with magnets and some wire.

 

[fan-of-fans]

Now that I have one I can experience the Kirby LED myself. LOL

I took the head off the motor and just for fun I took the nozzle in a dark room and spun the brush roll by hand. I was actually able to get the green LED to light briefly by spinning it myself!