SCALE LOCK

Abstract

Locking arrangement (100) for a load cell (34), wherein the locking arrangement (100) comprises the following: a locking component (102) that can be secured to the load cell (34), a locking element (106) designed to move at least between (i) a first position such that the locking element (106) is disengaged from the locking component (102) to provide an unlocked state, and (ii) a second position such that the locking element (106) is engaged with the locking component (102) to provide a locked state a support (104) designed to support the locking element (106) in relation to the locking component (102), an electrical switch (112) which is arranged on the support (104), an actuating device (112A) designed to interact with the electrical switch (112), wherein the actuating device (112A) is designed to activate the electrical switch (112) in such a way that the load cell (34) is only supplied with current when the locking arrangement (100) is in the unlocked state, and a pin (110) which is connected to the locking element (106), wherein the pin (110) is designed to be in contact with the actuating device (112A) in order to activate the electrical switch (112) in such a way that the load cell (34) is energized when the locking arrangement (100) is in the unlocked state, and wherein the pin (110) is designed to be spaced apart from the actuating device (112A) in order to deactivate the electrical switch (112) and disconnect the load cell (34) from the power supply when the locking arrangement (100) is in the locked state.

Description

AREA

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to locking mechanisms and more particularly to locking mechanisms designed for load cells. BACKGROUND

[0002] There is a general interest in transporting service carts to various locations via service vehicles. However, some service carts contain components that are vulnerable to damage when transported by service vehicles. For example, an air conditioning service unit includes a load cell that is vulnerable to damage when exposed to vibrations and / or other factors that may occur during transport by service vehicle. This damage can lead to a loss of integrity and a loss of accuracy in measurements provided by the load cell.

[0003] DE 10 2018 131 125 A1 relates to a weighing sensor for a scale, comprising a main body, a load-bearing device articulated on the main body by means of a parallelogram guide, and a lever mechanism with at least one lever, wherein the last lever in the force flow is a compensation lever, wherein the compensation lever extends into a region suitable for receiving a force compensation system, wherein the force compensation system consists of at least one magnet system and a coil, wherein the coil is connected to the compensation lever and the magnet system is arranged directly or indirectly on the main body of the weighing sensor, characterized in that a locking device is arranged on and / or in the main body of the weighing sensor, which locking device fixes the compensation lever in a working position.

[0004] US 2019 / 0 039 759 A relates to a device comprising a storage tank, a frame arranged at least partially below the storage tank, a lever having a first end and a second end pivotally mounted on the frame, and a scale system arranged below the storage tank, wherein the storage tank in a first position exerts a force against the scale system and the second end of the lever in a second position exerts a force on a bottom of the storage tank such that the storage tank is arranged above the scale system and out of contact therewith.

[0005] DE 19 49 964 U relates to a scale with a device for locking the weighing beam or another part of the measuring mechanism to protect the scale against shock loads, characterized in that the locking member and the part to be locked form a self-closing locking mechanism in their basic position, in which the locking of the locking member is the gate for the course of the measuring process.

[0006] EP 3 245 358 B1 relates to a sliding bolt closure comprising a sliding bolt extending along a bolt axis and rotatable thereabout; a biasing element for biasing the bolt along the bolt axis; and a projection extending from the bolt; and a base having a first bolt guide and a second bolt guide spaced apart from the first bolt guide along the bolt axis; said bolt closure being characterized in that the base has a barrier limiting the sliding and rotational movement of the biasing element. SUMMARY

[0007] The invention relates to a locking arrangement for a load cell as mentioned in claim 1 and a mobile service device as mentioned in claims 5 and 10.

[0008] The following is a summary of certain embodiments, which are described in detail below. The described aspects are presented only to provide the reader with a brief summary of these specific embodiments, and the description of these aspects is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. This disclosure may well include a plurality of aspects that may not be explicitly set forth below.

[0009] According to at least one aspect, a locking assembly relates to a load cell. The locking assembly comprises at least one locking component, a locking member, and a support. The locking component is adapted to be secured to the load cell. The locking member is configured to be placed in a first position such that the locking member is disengaged from the locking component to provide an unlocked state. In the unlocked state, the load cell is not secured to the locking member. The locking member is configured to be placed in a second position such that the locking member is engaged with the locking component to provide a locked state. In the locked state, the load cell is secured to the locking member.The carrier is designed to hold the locking element with respect to the locking component.

[0010] According to at least one aspect, a mobile service device comprises a base, a load cell, and a locking assembly. The load cell is supported on the base. The locking assembly includes a locking component, a locking member, and a support. The locking component is adapted to be secured to the load cell. The locking member is configured to be placed in a first position such that the locking member is disengaged from the locking component to provide the unlocked state. In the unlocked state, the load cell is not secured to the locking member. The locking member is configured to be placed in a second position such that the locking member is engaged with the locking component to provide the locked state.When locked, the load cell is secured to the locking element. The support is secured to the base. The support is designed to hold the locking element relative to the locking component.

[0011] According to at least one aspect, a mobile service device comprises at least a base, a load cell, and a locking assembly. The load cell is supported on the base. The locking assembly is configured to selectively provide an unlocked state of the load cell and a locked state of the load cell. The locking assembly includes at least one locking element, a carrier, an electrical switch, and an actuator. The locking element is configured to move between at least (i) a first position to provide the unlocked state and (ii) a second position to provide the locked state. The carrier is secured to the base. The carrier is configured to hold the locking element. The electrical switch is secured to the carrier. When activated, the electrical switch is configured to supply power to the load cell.When deactivated, the electrical switch is designed to disconnect the load cell from the power supply. The actuator is designed to activate the electrical switch when the locking assembly is in the unlocked state. The actuator is also designed to deactivate the electrical switch when the locking assembly is in the locked state.

[0012] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention are discussed in the following detailed description according to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent similar or like parts. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 shows an example of a mobile service device with a scale lock according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure in a perspective view. Fig. 2 shows the mobile service device and the scale lock of Fig. 1 in a perspective view with a front cover removed to show an internal portion of the mobile service device according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Fig. 3 shows the scale arrangement that is located within the base arrangement of the mobile service device of Fig. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, in a plan view from above. Fig. 4A shows the base assembly with the scale lock in an unlocked state according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure in a bottom plan view. Fig. 4B shows the base assembly with the scale lock in the locked state according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure in a bottom plan view. Fig. 5A shows the scale assembly with the scale lock in the unlocked state according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure in a perspective view. Fig. 5B shows the scale assembly with the scale lock in the locked state according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure in a perspective view. Fig. 6A shows the scale assembly with the scale lock in the unlocked state according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure in a bottom plan view. Fig. 6B shows the scale assembly with the scale lock in the locked state according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure in a bottom plan view. Fig. 7 shows the scale lock according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure in an exploded view. Fig. 8A shows some parts of the scale assembly with the scale lock in the unlocked state according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure in a top plan view. Fig. 8B shows some parts of the scale assembly with the scale lock in the locked state according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure in a top plan view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] The embodiments described herein, which have been shown and described by way of example, and many of their advantages will be understood from the foregoing description, and it will be apparent that various changes in the form, construction, and arrangement of components may be made without departing from the disclosed subject matter or sacrificing one or more of its advantages. Indeed, the described forms of these embodiments are merely illustrative. These embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, and the following claims are intended to include and embrace such changes and not to be limited to the particular forms disclosed, but rather to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0014] Fig. 1-2 illustrate various views of a mobile service device according to an exemplary embodiment. The mobile service device may be any service device that includes a load cell 34 or a similar device. Fig. 1, the mobile service device is, for example, a mobile air conditioning service device 10. The air conditioning service device 10 comprises a recovery, recycling, and recharging machine designed for use with at least one air conditioning system. In Fig. 1, for example, the machine is a single-pass system (i.e., a refrigerant flows through a filter once) for a recycled refrigerant. The air conditioning service unit 10 includes a control panel 12 including an electronic control system that allows an operator to control the operation of the machine and also allows an operator to obtain various readings and relevant information. The air conditioning service unit 10 includes a power cable 14 for connecting the machine to a power source so that the machine is electrically capable of performing electrical, electronic, and / or computer-based operations based at least on inputs received from the control panel 12.

[0015] The air conditioning service device 10 is designed as a mobile machine capable of moving over surfaces. For example, the air conditioning service device 10 comprises, as shown in Fig. 1-2, a housing 16 supported by a base assembly 18 with wheels 20 that enable the air conditioning service unit 10 to be moved. Furthermore, the air conditioning service unit 10 includes a steering handle 22 extending outwardly from the housing 16 and providing a suitable grip that allows the air conditioning service unit 10 to be easily pushed and / or pulled to a desired location. As shown in Fig. 2, the housing 16 is constructed in such a way that various components of the air conditioning service device 10, such as a compressor 24, a storage tank 26 and a scale arrangement 28 ( Fig. 3) as well as various other electrical / electronic components (e.g., display, storage device, I / O device, etc.), pumps, cylinders, hoses, and other components related to servicing an air conditioning system. Fig. 2, the housing 16 houses the compressor 24 on one side of the base assembly 18 and the reservoir 26 on the opposite side of the base assembly 18. The compressor 24 is operatively connected to the reservoir 26. The reservoir 26 is designed to store or contain any suitable substances, mixtures, or materials. For example, in Fig. 2, the reservoir 26 is configured to contain a refrigerant. The reservoir 26 is configured to be received and disposed on the scale assembly 28, which is supported by the base assembly 18.

[0016] Fig. 3 and Fig. 4A-4B show different views of the base assembly 18 in relation to the scale assembly 28 according to an exemplary embodiment. In particular, Fig. 3 shows the base assembly 18 in a plan view. The base assembly 18 includes a base 32 having a location 32A for placing the compressor 24 thereon and a location 32B for placing the reservoir 26 and the scale assembly 28 thereon. As shown in Fig. 2-3, the base assembly 18 supports at least the compressor 24 on one side of the base 32 and the reservoir 26 along with the scale assembly 28 on the opposite side of the base 32. In this regard, the scale assembly 28 is configured to detect a weight on the reservoir 26. By providing the weight measurement of the reservoir 26, the A / C service unit 10 is configured to determine how much refrigerant is present in the reservoir 26. This feature is advantageous because it allows the A / C service unit 10 to provide a display on the control panel 12 that lets the operator know how much refrigerant has been added or recovered at a given time or period of time, such as during operation. The scale assembly 28 is operatively connected to the electronic control system.The scale assembly 28 and the electronic control system are designed to be electrically connected to a power source that supplies power to the various electronic components of the air conditioning service unit 10. Furthermore, the scale assembly 28 is designed to cooperate with a scale lock 30.

[0017] Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B show the scale lock 30 disposed on an underside of the base 32 of the base assembly 18. In particular, Fig. 4A the scale lock 30 in the unlocked state in a plan view from below, while Fig. 4B illustrates the scale lock 30 in the locked state in a plan view from below. As in Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B, the scale lock 30 is designed to be secured to the base 32. The base 32 may include a protruding portion 32C extending from a surface of the base 32, as shown in Fig. 2. In this example, the projecting portion 32C is constructed to support at least the scale assembly 28. The projecting portion 32C has a surface with a through-hole for the magnet holder 40. In this context, the scale lock 30, as shown in Fig. 4A-4B, a first portion overlapping a region of the base 32 corresponding at least in part to the location 32A for the compressor 24, and a second portion overlapping a region of the base 32 corresponding at least in part to the location 32B for the reservoir 26 and the scale assembly 28,

[0018] Fig. 5A-5B and Fig. 6A-6B illustrate different views of the scale assembly 28 with respect to the scale lock 30. The scale assembly 28 is configured to provide a weight measurement of an object, such as the storage container 26, when received thereon. In an exemplary embodiment, the scale assembly 28 includes at least one load cell 34, a scale platform 36, a scale base 38, and a magnetic mount 40. In Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, for example, the load cell 34 is a beam load cell. The scale platform 36 is connected to the load cell 34. The scale assembly 36 is configured to receive an object to be sensed by the load cell 34. In this context, the scale platform 36 is, for example, a tray configured to receive and support the storage container 26. The scale assembly 28 further includes a scale base 38. In this example, the scale base 38 is a three-sided structure including a wall portion 38A located between a first side wall 38B and a second side wall 38C. The scale base 38 surrounds and protects three sides (e.g., the bottom surface and the side surfaces) of the load cell 34, while a fourth side (e.g., the top surface) of the load cell 34 encompasses the scale platform 36.Furthermore, the first side wall 38B and the second side wall 38C are configured to serve as additional contact points for the scale lock 30 by further including through-holes for receiving the locking element 106 therein. Furthermore, the magnetic mount 40 serves to place a calibration weight thereon for calibrating the scale assembly 28.

[0019] Also show Fig. 5A-5B and 6A-6B illustrate the scale lock 30 configured to cooperate with the scale assembly 28. The scale lock 30 includes a locking assembly 100 configured to provide at least one three-point locking mechanism. The locking assembly 100 is configured to provide an unlocked state in which the load cell 34 is not physically secured by the three-point locking mechanism, as shown in Fig. 5A, and a locked state in which the load cell 34 is physically secured by the three-point locking mechanism, as shown in Fig. 5B. Furthermore, the locking assembly 100 is configured to operatively connect the load cell 34 to at least one locking relay and / or an electronic control panel of the air conditioning service unit 10 when in the unlocked state, and to disconnect the load cell 34 from at least the locking relay and / or the electronic control panel of the air conditioning service unit 10 when in the locked state. Specifically, when the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state with the scale assembly 28, the air conditioning service unit 10 is configured to normally power up and supply power to its electrical / electronic components (including the load cell 34).In this context, if the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state with the scale assembly 28, the load cell 34 is configured to receive power from the power source of the air conditioning service device 10. Alternatively, if the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state with the scale assembly 28, the air conditioning service device 10 is configured to deactivate and disconnect its electrical / electronic components (including the load cell 34) to protect them. In this context, the load cell 34 is disconnected from the power supply via the power source of the air conditioning service device 10 when the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state with the scale assembly 28.Accordingly, the locking assembly 100 is advantageously designed to provide a relatively simple and convenient means by which the load cell 34 can be secured and protected at the operator's discretion, such as during times when the scale assembly 28 may be susceptible to damage (e.g., during transport in a vehicle, during an earthquake, etc.).

[0020] Fig. Figure 7 shows the scale lock 30 according to an exemplary embodiment in an exploded view. As shown in Fig. 7, the scale lock 30 includes at least one locking assembly 100. The locking assembly 100 includes at least one locking component 102, a carrier 104, a locking element 106, a spring 108, a pin 110, and an electrical switch 112. The locking component 102 is directly connected to the scale assembly 28. In particular, the locking component 102 can be secured, for example, to the load cell 34. In one exemplary embodiment, the locking component 102 is constructed as an extension of the load cell 34. The locking component 102 provides the load cell 34 with a structure with which the locking element 106 can cooperate to secure the load cell 34 when it is in the locked state and to release the load cell 34 from the securing when it is in the unlocked state. For example, the locking component 102 in Fig. 7 a first connecting section and a second connecting section.

[0021] The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are constructed in an L-shaped or substantially L-shaped configuration so that they can be positioned over a corner portion of the load cell 34. The first connecting portion includes a flange 102A. The flange 102A includes a number of through-holes 102B to receive a number of mechanical fasteners that secure the locking component 102 to the scale assembly 28. For example, the flange 102A, as shown in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, is constructed to lie between a top surface of the load cell 34 and a bottom surface of the scale platform 36. The mechanical fasteners secure the locking component 102 to the load cell 34. The mechanical fasteners may also be used to secure the locking component 102 to the scale platform 36. As shown in Fig. 7, the flange 102A is configured to protrude outwardly from a surface of the second connecting portion.

[0022] The second connecting portion comprises a body 102C having a through-bore 102C extending from one end surface 102E to an opposite end surface 102F. In this context, the locking element 106 is configured to move into the body 102C to provide the locked state and to move out of the body 102C to provide the unlocked state. The body 102C comprises any suitable shape. For example, the body 102C is Fig. 7, a block or block-like structure constructed as a corresponding extension of the load cell 34. The body 102C has an end surface 102G facing and contacting an end surface of the load cell 34.

[0023] The carrier 104 can be secured to the base 32. The carrier 104 is configured to provide support for various components of the locking assembly 100 relative to the base 32 so that these components are positioned to cooperate with the scale assembly 28. For example, the carrier 104 is configured to provide support for the locking element 106 relative to the locking component 102. The carrier 104 is also configured to support the actuator 112A and the electrical switch 112. In addition, the carrier 104 includes a locking structure (inner walls 104F and through-bore 104D) configured to receive and engage the pin 110 in such a manner that the locking element 106 is configured to be retained in the unlocked state and prevented from moving toward the locking component 102.The carrier 104 is also designed to define at least one physical limit within which the locking element 106, the spring 108 and / or the pin 110 can move.

[0024] In Fig. 7, the carrier 104 is a monolithic structure. Alternatively, the carrier 104 may comprise a number of parts that are firmly connected together to form a unified structure. Furthermore, the carrier 104 comprises a rigid material. For example, the carrier 104 comprises any suitable metal, alloy, or material. For example, the carrier 104 in Fig. 7 steel, which can be further processed and / or include a protective layer. The carrier 104 comprises at least a first section and a second section.

[0025] The first section includes a first wall 104A disposed between a first side wall 104B and a second side wall 104C. The first wall 104A is configured to support the electrical switch 112. The electrical switch 112 is configured to be disposed on a first surface of the first wall 104A of the carrier 104. The electrical switch 112 is also configured to be secured to the first wall 104A via at least one mechanical fastener. The carrier 104 allows the electrical switch 112 to be positioned in the area of ​​other electronic components (e.g., cables) of the air conditioning service unit 10, while also positioning the electrical switch 112 out of the path of the locking element 106 and the locking component 102.The first wall 104A is also configured to provide a physical barrier that protects the electrical switch 112 from the moving components of the locking assembly 100. The first wall 104A also serves as a physical barrier configured to protect the electrical switch 112 from foreign matter that may be created, as a non-limiting example, while the air conditioning service unit 10 moves across a surface with its wheels 20. The first wall 104A is also configured to provide a protective barrier for the locking member 106, the pin 110, and the spring 108 with respect to the base 32 of the air conditioning service unit 10. The first wall 104A may also be secured to a portion of the base 32.In this context, the first wall 104A is designed, for example, to include at least one through-hole 104E to receive a fastening device for fastening the first wall 104A to the corresponding part of the base 32.

[0026] Furthermore, the first wall 104A is constructed to include the locking structure defined at least by the inner walls 104F and the through-bore 104D of the carrier 104. The pin 110 is configured to engage the locking structure so that the locking element 106 is held in the first position and the locking assembly 100 is held in the unlocked state. The pin 110 is also configured to disengage from the locking structure so that the locking element 106 is configured to move. In particular, the first wall 104A, as shown in Fig. 7, inner walls 104F that define the through-bore 104D. In plan view, the inner walls 104F comprise a shape such that a larger area is present for receiving the pin 110 in any orientation and a smaller area for holding the pin 110 in a vertical orientation. In plan view, the inner walls 104F are configured to comprise a shape such that a transition area is present between the larger area and the smaller area, wherein the larger area is larger than the smaller area. The inner walls 104F at the transition area provide a smooth transition between the larger area and the smaller area. At the transition area, the inner walls 104F are configured to guide the pin 110 toward a vertical orientation while the locking element 106 transitions to the first position. In Fig. 7, the inner walls 104F, for example, comprise a triangular shape in plan view. Each corner of the triangle may be rounded to prevent the pin 110 from getting stuck therein. In Fig. 7, a corner portion on the smaller area includes, for example, inner walls 104F having a rounded portion defining a slot 104G for retaining the pin 110 in the vertical orientation. The pin 110 is configured to be retained against the inner wall portion of the slot 104G when the locking member 106 is in the first position and the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state.

[0027] The second section includes a second wall 104H. The second wall 104H is constructed to provide the support 104 with additional support and a firm connection to the base 32. In this context, the second wall 104H can be secured to the base 32. In Fig. 7, the second wall 104H includes, for example, through-holes 104I configured to receive fasteners that secure the support 104 to a portion of the base 32 corresponding to the position of the scale assembly 28. Furthermore, in this example, as shown at least in Fig. 7, at least one cut-off portion to provide sufficient clearance for at least one other component of the base 32. For example, the second wall 104H, as shown in Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B, a cut-off portion 104J so that the carrier 104 and the magnet holder 40 do not interfere with each other.

[0028] In this example, the second wall 104H is located at a different level than the first wall 104A to form a protruding portion 32C ( Fig. 2) of the base 32. The protruding portion 32C extends further outward from the base 32 than the portion of the base 32 corresponding to the first wall 104A. In this case, the protruding portion 32C is configured to include at least the scale assembly 28. In this regard, the second wall 104H, the second side wall 104C, and the first wall 104A form a step-like structure and thereby correspond to a periphery of the base 32 to provide a fixed connection. The bracket 104 is not limited to this configuration, as the second wall 104H may be provided on the same plane as the first wall 104A, provided the second wall 104H enables a fixed connection to the base 32 and does not interfere with other components.

[0029] Furthermore, the carrier 104 is configured to include a first side wall 104B and a second side wall 104C. In particular, the first side wall 104B extends at right angles or substantially at right angles to the first wall 104A. The second side wall 104C extends at right angles or substantially at right angles to the first wall 104A. Furthermore, the first side wall 104B is disposed at one end of the first wall 104A, while the second side wall 104C is disposed at an opposite end of the first wall 104A. As shown in Fig. 7, the first side wall 104B is spaced from the second side wall 104C by a length of the first wall 104A.

[0030] The first side wall 104B and the second side wall 104C are configured to support and align the locking element 106 with respect to the locking component 102 on the load cell 34. In this regard, the first side wall 104B includes a through-bore 104K ( Fig. 6A) to accommodate the locking element 106 with sufficient clearance to allow the locking element 106 to move. The second side wall 104C includes a through hole 104L ( Fig. 6A) to receive the locking element 106 with sufficient clearance to allow the locking element 106 to move. Furthermore, the through-holes 104K and 104L of the first sidewall 104B and the second sidewall 104C are aligned to receive the locking element 106. Furthermore, the first sidewall 104B and the second sidewall 104C are configured to provide physical boundaries that limit the movement of components of the locking assembly 100. For example, the first sidewall 104B provides a physical boundary for the spring 108. Furthermore, the second sidewall 104C provides a physical boundary for the pin 110.

[0031] The locking element 106 comprises a handle portion 106A and a shaft portion 106B. In Fig. 7, the locking element 106 is, for example, L-shaped or substantially L-shaped, with the handle portion 106A extending at right angles or substantially at right angles to the shaft portion 106B. The locking element 106 is a monolithic structure. Alternatively, the locking element 106 may comprise a plurality of parts that are firmly connected to one another to form a unified structure. The locking element 106 comprises a rigid and strong material, such as a metal, an alloy, or any suitable composition. Fig. 7, the locking element 106 comprises, for example, steel, which may be further processed and / or comprise a protective layer.

[0032] The handle portion 106A includes a first end portion of the locking element 106. In Fig. 7, for example, the handle portion 106A extends at right angles or substantially at right angles to the shaft portion 106B. The handle portion 106A forms a shorter part of the L-shaped structure, while the shaft portion 106B forms a longer part of the L-shaped structure. In this example, the handle portion 106A is configured to be shorter than the shaft portion 106B. The handle portion 106A enables the operator to easily manipulate the locking member 106 (e.g., move, pull, push, rotate, etc.) to achieve the unlocked state or the locked state, respectively.

[0033] The handle portion 106A is also advantageously configured to provide an indication of a state of the locking assembly 100 through its position and orientation. When the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state, a longitudinal axis of the handle portion 106A extends, for example, as shown at least in Fig. 5A, along a first axis (vertical axis) and / or parallel thereto. In the unlocked state, the handle portion 106A also extends over a bottom surface of the base 32 and on an outer side of a side surface of the base 32 ( Fig. 1 and Fig. 4A). In particular, the handle portion 106A is located as shown in Fig. 5A and Fig. 6A, at a greater distance from the first side wall 104B of the carrier 104 when the locking element 106 is in the first position than when the locking element 106 is in the second position, in such a way that the handle portion 106A is exposed on the outside of the side surface of the base 32. In this context, the handle portion 106A is exposed with respect to the base assembly 18 to indicate that the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state with respect to the scale assembly 28. When the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state, the longitudinal axis of the handle portion 106A extends, as shown at least in Fig. 5B, along a second axis (transverse axis) perpendicular to the first axis (vertical axis). In the locked state, the handle portion 106A is also located under the bottom surface of the base 32 and on an inner side of the side surface of the base 32 ( Fig. 2 and Fig. 4B). In particular, the handle portion 106A is located as shown in Fig. 5B and Fig. 6B, at a shorter distance from the first side wall 104B of the carrier 104 when the locking element 106 is in the second position than when the locking element 106 is in the first position, in such a manner that the handle portion 106A is disposed on an inner side of the side surface of the base 32. In this regard, the handle portion 106A is protected on a side surface of the base assembly 18 and is not exposed when the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state. If the handle portion 106A is not readily visible, this position of the handle portion 106A indicates that the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state with respect to the scale assembly 28.

[0034] The shaft portion 106B comprises a second end portion of the locking element 106. In the Fig. 7, the shaft portion 106B extends, for example, at right angles or substantially at right angles to the handle portion 106A. The shaft portion 106B forms a longer part of the L-shaped structure, while the handle portion 106A forms a shorter part of the L-shaped structure. In this example, the shaft portion 106B is configured to be longer than the handle portion 106A. The shaft portion 106B is configured to engage the locking component 102. In particular, the shaft portion 106B includes, as shown at least in Fig. 7, a tapered end portion 106C. This feature is advantageous because it guides the locking member 106 as the locking member 106 moves into or out of the through-holes (e.g., the through-holes of the locking component 102 and the through-holes of the scale base 38).

[0035] Fig. 8A and Fig. 8B show plan views of the locking assembly 100 relative to the scale assembly 28, wherein the scale platform 36 has been removed so that the interaction between the locking element 106 and the load cell 34 is visible. In this context, the locking element 106 is configured to move to a first position to achieve the unlocked state with respect to the locking component 102. When the locking element 106 is in the first position, the shaft portion 106B, as shown in Fig. 8A, is designed to be spaced from the locking component 102 in such a way that the locking element 106 is disengaged from the locking component 102. In particular, the tapered end portion 106C, as shown in Fig. 5A and Fig. 8A, spaced from the end surface 102E of the locking component 102 when the locking element 106 is in the first position and the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state. When the locking element 106 is in the first position, the locking element 106 is, as shown in Fig. 5A and Fig. 8A, engages and is retained by the first sidewall 104B, the second sidewall 104C, and the first sidewall 38B. In this context, when the locking component 102 is not secured to the locking member 106, the locking component 102 is free to move, and thus the load cell 34 is physically capable of operation.

[0036] The locking element 106 is also configured to move into a second position to achieve the locked state with respect to the locking component 102. In particular, the tapered end portion 106C is configured to be guided into one end surface 102E of the locking component 102 and out of the opposite end surface 102F of the locking component 102 as the locking element 106 moves into the second position. In this context, the locking component 102 is configured to receive and surround a portion of the shaft portion 106B of the locking component 106 so that the locking component 102 is held around the locking element 106. When the locking element 106 is in the second position, the locking element 106, as shown in Fig. 5B and Fig. 8B, is held by the first sidewall 104B and the second sidewall 104C of the support 104, while the locking member 106 contributes to a three-point locking mechanism for the load cell 34. That is, when the locking member 106 is in the second position, the locking assembly 100 is configured to provide at least three points of contact for the locking member 106 to secure the load cell 34, including (i) a first point on the first sidewall 38B, (ii) a second point on the locking component 102, and (iii) a third point on the second sidewall 38C. This three-point locking mechanism ensures that the load cell 34 is physically secured in a stable manner when the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state.

[0037] The shaft portion 106B is configured to support the spring 108 or any suitable biasing device. In particular, the shaft portion 106B is configured, for example, to retain the spring 108 around its peripheral outer portion. For example, the coils of the spring 108 may be Fig. 5A-5B and Fig. 6A-6B, wrap around the periphery of the shaft portion 106B of the locking member 106. In this example, the spring 108 is connected to the shaft portion 106B while located between the first sidewall 104B and the pin 110. In this regard, the pin 110 is configured to influence a state of the spring 108 as the pin 110 moves toward or away from the first sidewall 104B. For example, the spring 108 is configured to be in a more compressed state when the locking member 106 is in the first position (compared to the second position) because the space for the spring 108, as defined by the distance between the first sidewall 104B and the pin 110, is reduced.The spring 108 is also designed to be in a less compressed state when the locking member 106 is in the second position (compared to the first position) because the space for the spring 108, as defined by the distance between the first side wall 104B and the pin 110, is increased.

[0038] Furthermore, the shaft portion 106B is configured to support the pin 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the pin 110 is configured to securely extend perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly to the shaft portion 106B. Fig. 7, for example, the pin 110 is positioned to form a cross or cross-like structure with respect to the shaft portion 106B. This cross or cross-like structure is designed to ensure that the locking element 106 moves in an intended manner to transition from one state (e.g., unlocked state or locked state) to another state (e.g., locked state or unlocked state). To move from the unlocked state to the locked state, the locking element 106 should, for example, (i) be pulled and rotated 90 degrees to allow the pin 110 to exit the larger portion of the locking structure of the carrier 104, and (ii) be pushed into the second position (e.g., via a spring and / or by the operator).In this case, the pin 110 is also advantageously configured to act as a stop by engaging an interior portion of the second sidewall 104C to ensure that the locking member 106 is properly engaged in the second position, thus achieving the three-point locking mechanism. To move from the locked state to the unlocked state, the locking member 106 should also be (i) pulled out of the locking component 102 and (ii) rotated 90 degrees to allow the pin 110 to move into the slot 104G of the carrier 104, thereby engaging the locking member 106 in the first position.

[0039] Additionally, the pin 110 is configured to abut against the spring 108 to cause the spring 108 to transition to the more compressed state while the pin 110 moves toward the first side wall 104B upon transition to the unlocked state. Fig. For example, Figure 6A shows the position of the pin 110 when the locking member 106 is in the first position, as well as the more compressed state of the spring 108 when the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state. As shown in Fig. 5A and Fig. 6A, the pin 110 is aligned along the first axis (vertical axis) and extends through the slot 104G while being held against an inner wall portion 104G. When the pin 110 is in the slot 104G, the pin 110 is also configured to contact and / or abut against the actuating device 112A via the biasing force of the spring 108 to activate the electrical switch 112. As shown in Fig. 5A and Fig. For example, as shown in Figure 8A, the pin 110 is configured to cause the actuator 112A to be in a closed position, in which the actuator 112A is parallel (or substantially parallel) to and in full contact (or predominantly in contact) with a corresponding surface of the body 112B of the electrical switch 112. In this example, when the pin 110 impacts against it, the actuator is configured to push an internal switch 112E into the body 112B to activate the electrical switch 112.

[0040] Additionally, the pin 110 is configured to allow the spring 108 to return to the less compressed state as the pin 110 moves away from the first side wall 104B upon transition to the locked state. Fig. For example, Figure 6B shows the position of the pin 110 when the locking member 106 is in the second position, as well as the less compressed state of the spring 108 when the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state. As in Fig. 5B and Fig. 6B, the pin 110 is aligned along the second axis (transverse axis) and held against an inner side of the second side wall 104C to hold the locking element 106 in the second position. When the pin 110 is released from the locking structure of the carrier 104, the pin 110 is also spaced from the actuating device 112A. As shown in Fig. 5B and Fig. 8B, when there is a space between the pin 110 and the actuator 112A, the actuator 112A is configured to be in an open position in which the actuator 112A forms an acute angle with respect to the corresponding surface of the body 112B to provide space for the internal switch 112E to be released from the body 112B to deactivate the electrical switch 112.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical switch 112 is configured to be secured to the carrier 104 at a location adjacent to the carrier's locking structure, as shown in Fig. 8A-8B. For example, the electrical switch 112 includes a connecting portion with through-holes configured to receive mechanical fasteners. The mechanical fasteners are configured to secure the electrical switch 112 to the carrier 104. The carrier 104 also includes corresponding through-holes 104M ( Fig. 6A-6B) to accommodate these fastening devices.

[0042] The electrical switch 112 includes an actuator 112A. In this example, the actuator 112A is a relatively thin steel rod rotatably connected to the body 12B of the electrical switch 112. The actuator 112A is configured to move to a closed position when actuated and to an open position when not actuated. For example, the actuator 112A is configured to move between a closed position when the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state and an open position when the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state.The actuator 112A is also configured to activate the electrical switch 112 when in the closed position and to deactivate the electrical switch 112 when in the open position. The actuator 112A is configured to extend outward at an acute angle with respect to the corresponding surface of the body 112B of the electrical switch 112 when in the open position. The actuator 112A is also configured to extend parallel or substantially parallel to a corresponding surface of the body 112B of the electrical switch when in the closed position.

[0043] The actuator 112A is configured to be activated or deactivated via the pin 110. If the actuator 112A is activated because it is in contact with the pin 110 while the locking element 106 is in the first position, the electrical switch 112 is configured to provide an electrical connection that allows the air conditioning service unit 10 to turn on in such a way that the load cell 34 is supplied with power. If the actuator 112A is deactivated because it is spaced apart from the pin 110 while the locking element 106 is in the second position, the electrical switch 112 disconnects the electrical connection and prevents the air conditioning service unit 10 from turning on, such that the load cell 34 is not supplied with power as a protective measure.

[0044] In addition, the electrical switch 112 includes a set of terminals 112C. In Fig. 8A-8B, for example, the electrical switch 112 includes four terminals 112C. The set of terminals 112C is located on the electrical switch 112 in a non-interfering position with respect to the actuating device 112A. In Fig.8A-8B, the set of terminals 112C is located on a side of the electrical switch 112 opposite a side that includes the actuating device 112A. The set of terminals 112C includes a first subset of terminals 112C configured to connect the electrical switch 112 to other electrical components of the air conditioning service unit 10, such as a locking relay and / or an electronic control panel used to control various electrical components (e.g., the load cell 34) of the air conditioning service unit 10. The set of terminals 112C further includes a second subset of terminals 112C connectable to a power source (e.g., the power source of a vehicle) and an electrical / electronic device to indicate a current state (e.g., locked state or unlocked state) of the locking assembly 100. For example, an operator may activate a light (e.g.,LED) to a terminal 112C such that the light is configured to exhibit an on state when the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state and an off state when the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state. More specifically, when the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state, the pin 110 activates the electrical switch 112 via the actuator 112A and completes the electrical connection to turn on the light. Alternatively, when the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state, the pin 110 does not activate the electrical switch 112 via the actuator 112A and does not complete the electrical connection to turn on the light (i.e., the light is off). This feature is particularly advantageous because it enables the operator to determine a status of the indicating device (e.g.,B. LED) to quickly detect a condition of the locking assembly 100 and determine whether the load cell 34 is protected or unprotected.

[0045] As discussed herein, the scale lock 30 includes a number of advantageous features and advantages. For example, the scale lock 30 provides a reliable solution for protecting the load cell 34 from various movements, vibrations, and / or forces that would otherwise compromise the integrity of the load cell 34. In particular, the lock assembly 100 is advantageously configured to provide at least (i) an unlocked state in which the load cell 34 is physically unsecured and electrically enabled, and (ii) a locked state in which the load cell 34 is physically secured and electrically disabled. In this regard, the lock assembly 100 is configured to physically and electrically protect the load cell 34 in the locked state.Furthermore, the locking assembly 100, when locked, is advantageously configured to provide at least a three-point locking mechanism to stably secure the load cell 34. The three points may include a tighter tolerance (e.g., less clearance for movement of the locking element 106 compared to other points of the support 104) to provide a more secure connection for the load cell 34. Furthermore, the locking assembly 100 is also configured to allow the load cell 34 (and also the A / C service unit 10) to operate as intended, as if there were no scale lock 30 on the A / C service unit 10 when in the unlocked state.

[0046] The locking assembly 100 includes the locking component 102, which is advantageously constructed as an extension of the load cell 34 and is configured to cooperate with a locking element 106. Furthermore, the locking assembly 100 includes a handle portion 106A that enables an operator to easily move the locking element 106 to transition the locking assembly 100 to a desired state (e.g., unlocked state or locked state). Furthermore, the locking assembly 100 is configured to position the handle portion 106A in an exposed and visible location when in the unlocked state and to position the handle portion 106A in an unexposed and protected location when in the locked state.Positioning the handle portion 106A allows the operator to determine the condition of the locking assembly 100. Furthermore, the handle portion 106A and the pin 110 are configured to be parallel or substantially parallel to each other, thereby providing the advantage that alignment of the handle portion 106A provides an operator with an indication of the general orientation of the pin 110 (which may not be readily visible). Furthermore, the locking assembly 100 includes the carrier 104 having interior walls 104F configured to guide the pin 110 into proper alignment and position according to a direction of movement of the locking member 106.

[0047] Furthermore, the locking assembly 100 includes a spring 108, which is advantageously configured to bias the locking assembly 100 to maintain its current state (e.g., unlocked state or locked state). For example, when the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state, the spring 108 is configured to push the pin 110 against an inner wall portion of the slot 104G of the locking structure, urging the pin 110 to return to the unlocked state, even if a disturbance causes the locking element 106 to move out of place.In another example, when the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state, the spring 108 is configured to urge the locking member 106 to return to the locked state and maintain its position within the locking component 102, even if a minor disturbance is present that causes the locking member 106 to move out of place. The biasing feature is advantageous because it ensures that the current state is maintained by the locking assembly 100 unless the locking member 106 is intentionally moved (e.g., pushed / pulled and rotated) by the operator.

[0048] Furthermore, the locking assembly 100 is advantageous because it is configured to signal to an operator the current state (e.g., locked state or unlocked state) of the scale assembly 28. In particular, the locking assembly 100 includes, for example, the electrical switch 112, which includes terminals 112C that enable the operator to connect a status indicator, such as an electrical / electronic device (e.g., LED), to indicate a first state (e.g., an on state of the LED) when it is determined that the locking assembly 100 is in the unlocked state, and a second state (e.g., an off state of the LED) when it is determined that the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state.This notification feature is advantageous in that it informs the operator of the current state of the locking assembly 100, particularly when the operator is unable to directly view the locking assembly 100. As a non-limiting example, an operator may connect a vehicle-associated light to the terminal of the electrical switch 112 in such a manner that the operator can check a status of the light and thus the current state of the locking assembly 100 to ensure that the locking assembly 100 is in the locked state and the load cell 34 is physically and electrically protected before driving the vehicle.

[0049] This means that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive, and is intended to be understood in the context of its particular application and requirements. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description that the present invention may be embodied in a variety of forms, and that the various embodiments may be practiced alone or in combination.Therefore, while the embodiments of the present invention have been described in connection with particular examples thereof, the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments, and the true scope of the embodiments and / or methods of the present invention are not limited to the embodiments shown and described, since various modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the drawings, the specification, and the following claims. For example, alternative embodiments include a magnet and a magnetic sensor configured to activate and deactivate the electrical switch 112 instead of the pin 110 and physical actuator 112A.In this context, for example, the magnet may be secured to the locking element 106, the carrier 104, or any suitable part of the locking assembly 100, while the magnetic sensor may be secured to the carrier 104, the locking element 106, or any suitable part of the locking assembly 100. In these alternative embodiments, the locking assembly 100 is configured to activate the electrical switch 112 based on a first predetermined detection by the magnetic sensor and to deactivate the electrical switch 112 based on a second predetermined detection by the magnetic sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the components and functionality may be separated or combined differently than in the manner of the various described embodiments, for example, and may also be described using different terminology.These and other modifications, changes, additions and improvements may fall within the scope of the disclosure as defined in the following claims.

Claims

[1] Locking arrangement (100) for a load cell (34), the locking arrangement (100) comprising: a locking component (102) that can be secured to the load cell (34), a locking element (106) configured to move at least between (i) a first position such that the locking element (106) is disengaged from the locking component (102) to provide an unlocked state, and (ii) a second position such that the locking element (106) is engaged with the locking component (102) to provide a locked state a support (104) designed to support the locking element (106) with respect to the locking component (102), an electrical switch (112) arranged on the carrier (104), an actuating device (112A) designed to cooperate with the electrical switch (112), wherein the actuating device (112A) is designed to activate the electrical switch (112) in such a way that the load cell (34) is only supplied with power when the locking arrangement (100) is in the unlocked state, and a pin (110) connected to the locking element (106), wherein the pin (110) is adapted to be in contact with the actuating device (112A) to activate the electrical switch (112) in such a way that the load cell (34) is supplied with power when the locking arrangement (100) is in the unlocked state, and wherein the pin (110) is configured to be spaced from the actuator (112A) to deactivate the electrical switch (112) and disconnect the load cell (34) from power when the locking assembly (100) is in the locked state. [2] The locking assembly (100) of claim 1, further comprising: a spring (108) configured to bias the locking member (106) in such a manner that the pin (110) is held against an inner wall of the carrier (104) to hold the locking member (106) in the first position when the locking assembly (100) is in the unlocked state. [3] Locking arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the pin (110) is positioned relative to the locking element (106) in such a manner that a longitudinal axis of the pin (110) extends perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of a shaft portion (106B) of the locking element (106). [4] The locking assembly (100) of claim 1, further comprising: a spring (108) connected to the locking element (106), wherein the spring (108) is configured to bias the locking element (106) into the second position when the locking assembly (100) is in the locked state. [5] Mobile service device, comprising: a base (32), a load cell (34) carried on the base (32), and a locking arrangement (100) comprising: a locking component (102) that can be secured to the load cell (34), a locking element (106) configured to move at least between (i) a first position such that the locking element (106) is disengaged from the locking component (102) to provide an unlocked state, and (ii) a second position such that the locking element (106) is engaged with the locking component (102) to provide a locked state a support (104) secured to the base (32) and constructed to support the locking element (106) with respect to the locking component (102), the locking arrangement (100) further comprises an electrical switch (112) arranged on the carrier (104), the locking arrangement (100) further comprises an actuating device (112A) designed to cooperate with the electrical switch (112), wherein the actuating device (112A) is designed to activate the electrical switch (112) in such a way that the load cell (34) is only supplied with power when the locking arrangement (100) is in the unlocked state, the locking arrangement (100) further comprises a pin (110) connected to the locking element (106), the pin (110) is designed to be in contact with the actuating device (112A) to activate the electrical switch (112) in such a way that the load cell (34) is supplied with power when the locking arrangement (100) is in the unlocked state, and the pin (110) is designed to be spaced from the actuating device (112A) to deactivate the electrical switch (112) in such a way that the load cell (34) is disconnected from the power supply when the locking assembly (100) is in the locked state. [6] Mobile service device according to claim 5, wherein: the pin (110) is in contact with the actuating device (112A) when the locking element (106) is in the first position, and the pin (110) is spaced from the actuating device (112A) when the locking element (106) is in the second position. [7] Mobile service device according to claim 5, wherein the locking arrangement (100) further comprises: a spring (108) configured to bias the locking member (106) in such a manner that the pin (110) is held against an inner wall of the carrier (104) to hold the locking member (106) in the first position when the locking assembly (100) is in the unlocked state. [8] Mobile service device according to claim 5, wherein: the pin is positioned relative to the locking element (106) in such a way that a longitudinal axis of the pin (110) extends perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of a shaft portion (106B) of the locking element (106). [9] Mobile service device according to claim 5, wherein: the locking arrangement (100) further comprises a spring (108) connected to the locking element (106), and the spring (108) is designed to bias the locking element (106) into the second position when the locking arrangement (100) is in the locked state. [10] Mobile service device, comprising: a base (32), a load cell (34) carried on the base (32), and a locking assembly (100) configured to selectively provide an unlocked state of the load cell (34) and a locked state of the load cell (34), the locking assembly (100) comprising: a locking element (106) configured to move between at least (i) a first position to provide the unlocked state and (ii) a second position to provide the locked state, a carrier (104) secured to the base (32), the carrier (104) being adapted to carry the locking element (106), an electrical switch (112) secured to the support (104), the electrical switch (112) being configured to connect power to the load cell (34) when activated and to disconnect the load cell (34) from the power supply when deactivated, and an actuating device (112A) configured to activate the electrical switch (112) when the locking assembly (100) is in the unlocked state and to deactivate the electrical switch (112) when the locking assembly (100) is in the locked state. [11] Mobile service device according to claim 10, wherein: the electrical switch (112) comprises a set of terminals (112C) operatively connected to an electrical device, and the electrical device is configured to (a) indicate a first state when the locking arrangement (100) is in the unlocked state, and (b) indicate a second state when the locking arrangement (100) is in the locked state. [12] Mobile service device according to claim 10, further comprising: a pin (110) connected to the locking element (106), wherein the pin (110) is designed to be in contact with the actuating device (112A) in the unlocked state to activate the electrical switch (112), and the pin (110) is designed to be spaced from the actuating device (112A) in the locked state in order to deactivate the electrical switch (112). [13] Mobile service device according to claim 10, wherein: the locking arrangement (100) further comprises a locking component (102), the locking component (102) can be secured to the load cell (34), the locking element (106) is designed to engage with the locking component (102) in such a way that the load cell (34) is physically secured to the locking element (106) in the locked state, and the locking element (106) is designed to disengage from the locking component (102) in such a manner that the load cell (34) is not physically secured to the locking element (106) in the unlocked state. [14] Mobile service device according to claim 13, further comprising: a pin (110) connected to the locking element (106), and a spring (108) configured to bias the locking member (106) in such a manner that the pin (110) is held against an inner wall of the carrier (104) to hold the locking member (106) in the first position when the locking assembly (100) is in the unlocked state. [15] Mobile service device according to claim 10, wherein: the locking arrangement (100) further comprises a spring (108), and the spring (108) is designed to bias the locking element (106) into the second position.

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