Wireless and sensor-inspired digital scale

Abstract

A comprehensive digital weighing system: • a load cell that detects the weight of an object placed on the scale and generates an analog electrical signal proportional to the applied force; • an HX711 module that is operationally connected to the load cell to receive, amplify, and convert the analog signal from the load cell into a digital signal; • an Arduino Uno microcontroller connected to the HX711 module to read the digital signal, process the data, and perform calibration and unit conversions; • an OLED display configured to receive the processed weight data from the Arduino Uno and display it to the user in real time; wherein the Arduino Uno is programmed to calibrate the digital scale and adjust the accuracy based on predefined calibration factors; wherein the system also has a push button operationally connected to the Arduino Uno, allowing the user to trigger certain functions, such as taring, zeroing the scale, or starting a calibration sequence; characterized in that the load cell is configured to detect minute changes in weight and convert the applied force into an electrical signal proportional to the force exerted by the object.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of weighing and measuring and is particularly concerned with the need for accurate and practical digital personal scales. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Scales are indispensable tools in numerous industries, including manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and logistics. They are used for a wide variety of applications, from the precise measurement of materials in industrial processes to monitoring body weight for personal use. Although weighing devices are widely used, traditional analog scales and many digital models face limitations in terms of accuracy, ease of use, real-time response, and data integration.

[0003] While analog scales are simple and inexpensive, they have limited accuracy and are prone to manual errors when reading and recording weights. They also lack advanced features such as tare functions, calibration options, and the ability to store or transfer data for analysis. Similarly, many lower-priced digital scales are often limited by outdated technology that allows only basic weight measurements without the ability to effectively process or manage data. This poses a challenge in industries where precision, data logging, and integration with broader systems are critical, such as warehouse management or industrial manufacturing.

[0004] Furthermore, the demand for compact, portable, and energy-efficient weighing solutions continues to rise, driven by the need for mobile applications, environmental considerations, and energy efficiency. However, conventional scales are often bulky and require a continuous power supply, limiting their flexibility in various work environments.

[0005] Another problem with many existing digital scales is their inability to provide weight readings in real time without noticeable delay. Slow data processing or display output can impair operational efficiency, especially in industrial or commercial environments where speed is critical. Furthermore, many current weighing systems lack user-friendly interfaces or advanced interaction options, such as the ability to switch units, tare weights, or initiate calibration sequences directly from the device.

[0006] The present invention overcomes these limitations by providing an advanced digital weighing system that incorporates modern technology for improved functionality, precision, and versatility. At its core, the invention consists of a load cell for high-precision weight measurement, an HX711 module for signal amplification and conversion, and an Arduino Uno microcontroller for data processing and control. This combination ensures precise, real-time weight measurement while maintaining a user-friendly interface and low power consumption.

[0007] One of the key advantages of this system is its ability to process and display weight data in real time, minimizing delays between measurement and output. This is crucial in environments where speed and efficiency are paramount. The OLED display provides instant visual feedback, while the momentary switch enables intuitive interaction, allowing users to perform essential functions like taring and calibration without external tools or manual processes.

[0008] Furthermore, the system supports advanced data logging and integration with external systems via USB or Bluetooth. This feature addresses the growing need for digital scales that are part of a larger data management ecosystem, enabling industries to collect, store, and analyze weight data for inventory control, production optimization, or quality assurance. In addition, the invention's flexible power supply options—battery or standard wall outlet—allow for use in a wide variety of environments, including portable or mobile applications.

[0009] The invention's compact and robust design ensures its resistance to environmental influences, making it suitable for both industrial and outdoor use. The ability to reprogram the Arduino Uno for extended functionality and the integration of additional sensors further enhances the system's versatility, allowing it to evolve alongside changing industry requirements. This invention not only overcomes the accuracy and functional limitations of existing scales but also opens the door to integration into more complex systems, providing a robust solution for modern weight measurement needs. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] A scale, also called a balance, is a device used to measure the weight or mass of an object. These devices are commonly used in various industries, laboratories, homes, and commercial settings to, for example, monitor personal health, weigh ingredients when cooking, ensure accurate postage costs, and determine the weight of goods in commerce and manufacturing. Modern scales have undergone a long evolution since the days of the knife-edge balance (which still has important applications in laboratories). Today's digital scale is (or can be) a sophisticated weighing device equipped with a software suite for recording and processing the results obtained during weighing.

[0011] The present invention relates to a digital weighing system that uses modern electronic components to provide accurate weight measurements in real time. The system comprises: 1. Weight detection: The load cell at the core of the system is configured to detect weight and generate an analog electrical signal proportional to the applied force. The load cell can detect minute changes in weight, thus enabling precise measurements. 2. Signal Conversion: The analog signal from the load cell is sent to the HX711 module, which amplifies the signal and converts it into a digital format. This digital signal can then be processed by the Arduino Uno microcontroller. 3. Data Processing and Display: The Arduino Uno reads the digital signal from the HX711 module and processes the data. It applies calibration and unit conversion algorithms, improving accuracy and converting the measurements into desired units such as grams, kilograms, or pounds. The processed weight is displayed in real time on an OLED display, providing the user with immediate visual feedback. 4. User Interaction: The system features a push button that allows the user to perform functions such as taring (zeroing the scale), calibration, and unit changes. The Arduino Uno processes the button inputs and executes the corresponding actions. 5. Advanced Features: The system offers a data logging function that allows weight values ​​to be stored for later retrieval or integration with external systems such as warehouse management via USB or Bluetooth interfaces. The system can also be integrated into larger networks for data analysis and processing. 6. Real-time feedback and error handling: The OLED display gives the user feedback on the current weight value, system status, and error conditions such as overload or calibration requirements. 7. High-speed processing: The Arduino Uno ensures fast processing and display of weight data and minimizes delays between weight application and display output. 8. Power supply: The system can be operated with battery power as well as via a normal power outlet, offering flexibility for different operating environments. 9. Compact and durable design: The load cell, HX711 module and OLED display are housed in a compact, durable enclosure that protects the components from environmental damage, ensuring long-term reliability and ease of use. 10. Reprogrammable functions: The Arduino Uno can be reprogrammed for new functions or connected to additional external sensors, allowing the system to be adapted for various applications beyond simple weight measurement.

[0012] This invention offers an accurate, reliable and user-friendly digital weighing solution with advanced data management and system integration features, providing significant advantages over conventional weighing devices. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] A scale, also called a balance, is a device used to measure the weight or mass of an object. These devices are commonly used in various industries, laboratories, homes, and commercial settings to, for example, monitor personal health, weigh ingredients when cooking, ensure accurate postage costs, and determine the weight of goods in commerce and manufacturing. Modern scales have undergone a long evolution since the days of the knife-edge balance (which, however, still has important applications in the laboratory). Today's digital scale is (or can be) a sophisticated weighing device equipped with a software suite for recording and processing the results obtained during weighing.

[0014] When weight is applied to the load cell, this is detected by the HX711 module, and the Arduino Uno displays the change in weight using the OLED display. The product's functionality with Arduino is shown in the diagram.

[0015] The present invention describes a digital scale that uses a load cell for weight measurement, an HX711 module for analog-to-digital conversion, and an OLED display for showing the weight values. The system uses an Arduino Uno microcontroller to interface with these components, to process weight data, and to provide a user-friendly interface. The invention offers improved accuracy, real-time display, and the potential for data logging and integration with other systems. 1. Weight detection: ◯ The load cell is positioned so that it can absorb the weight of an object placed on the scale. ◯ When weight is applied, the load cell generates a corresponding electrical signal that is proportional to the applied force. 2. Signal conversion: ◯ The HX711 module receives the analog signal from the load cell. ◯ It amplifies and converts the analog signal into a digital format that the Arduino Uno can understand. 3. Data processing and display: ◯ The Arduino Uno reads the digital weight data from the HX711 module. ◯ It processes the data and performs all necessary calibrations or unit conversions. ◯ The processed weight measurement is then sent to the OLED display for the user to see. 4. User interface (optional): ◯ The button can be used to trigger functions such as taring (zeroing the scale with a container on it) or calibration. ◯ The Arduino Uno processes the switch inputs and executes the corresponding actions.

[0016] The present invention describes a digital scale that uses a load cell, an HX711 module, an OLED display, and an Arduino Uno to enable accurate and convenient weight measurements. The combination of components and the system's software-controlled functionality offers advantages over conventional scales. The invention represents a valuable contribution to the field of weighing and measuring.

[0017] The present invention discloses a digital weighing system comprising: a load cell configured to detect the weight of an object placed on the scale and generate an analog electrical signal proportional to the applied force; an HX711 module operationally connected to the load cell to receive, amplify, and convert the analog signal from the load cell into a digital signal; an Arduino Uno microcontroller connected to the HX711 module to read the digital signal, process the data, and perform calibration and unit conversions; an OLED display configured to receive the processed weight measurement from the Arduino Uno and display it to the user in real time; wherein the Arduino Uno is programmed to calibrate the digital scale and adjust the accuracy based on predefined calibration factors;wherein the system also has a button operationally connected to the Arduino Uno, which allows the user to trigger certain functions such as taring, zeroing the scale or initiating a calibration sequence; characterized in that the load cell is configured to detect minute changes in weight and convert the exerted force into an electrical signal that is proportional to the force exerted by the object.

[0018] In another embodiment, the HX711 module amplifies the analog signal from the load cell before converting it into a digital signal readable by the Arduino Uno.

[0019] In another embodiment, the Arduino Uno applies calibration data to the weight indicator to improve measurement accuracy and converts the display into the desired units such as grams, kilograms, or pounds before sending it to the OLED display.

[0020] In another embodiment, the OLED display shows the weight value in real time, providing the user with an accurate and responsive visual output.

[0021] In another embodiment, it also includes a data logging function in which the Arduino Uno stores weight measurements for later retrieval or integration with external systems via data communication interfaces such as USB or Bluetooth; wherein the digital personal scale can be integrated with other systems for data analysis, such as inventory management or manufacturing processes, using wired or wireless communication protocols.

[0022] In another embodiment, the scale provides feedback to the user via the OLED display regarding the system status or errors, such as overload, calibration status or battery level.

[0023] In another embodiment, the button allows the user to select and execute certain weighing functions such as tare, unit change or zeroing of the scale, with the corresponding instructions being processed by the Arduino Uno.

[0024] In another embodiment, the Arduino Uno processes the weight data at high speed and ensures real-time display of weight measurements without noticeable delay.

[0025] In another embodiment, the system comprises a power supply, wherein the system can be powered by battery or via a normal electrical outlet to provide flexible power supply options for different operating environments; wherein the load cell, the HX711 module and the OLED display are housed in a compact and durable enclosure that provides protection from environmental influences while maintaining ease of use.

[0026] In another embodiment, the Arduino Uno can be reprogrammed to customize system functions or to provide an interface to additional external sensors for extended measurement functions.

Claims

[1] A digital weighing system, comprising: • a load cell that detects the weight of an object placed on the scale and generates an analog electrical signal proportional to the applied force; • an HX711 module that is operationally connected to the load cell to receive, amplify, and convert the analog signal from the load cell into a digital signal; • an Arduino Uno microcontroller connected to the HX711 module to read the digital signal, process the data, and perform calibration and unit conversions; • an OLED display configured to receive the processed weight data from the Arduino Uno and display it to the user in real time; wherein the Arduino Uno is programmed to calibrate the digital scale and adjust the accuracy based on predefined calibration factors; wherein the system also has a push button operationally connected to the Arduino Uno, allowing the user to trigger certain functions, such as taring, zeroing the scale, or starting a calibration sequence; characterized by , that the load cell is configured to detect tiny changes in weight and convert the applied force into an electrical signal that is proportional to the force exerted by the object. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the HX711 module amplifies the analog signal from the load cell before converting it into a digital signal readable by the Arduino Uno. [3] System according to claim 1, wherein the Arduino Uno applies calibration data to the weight display to improve measurement accuracy and converts the display into desired units such as grams, kilograms or pounds before sending it to the OLED display. [4] System according to claim 1, wherein the OLED display shows the weight measurement in real time and provides the user with an accurate and responsive visual output. [5] System according to claim 1, further comprising a data logging function, wherein the Arduino Uno stores weight measurements for later retrieval or integration with external systems via data communication interfaces such as USB or Bluetooth; wherein the digital scale can be integrated with other systems for data analysis, such as inventory management or manufacturing processes, using wired or wireless communication protocols. [6] System according to claim 1, wherein the scale provides the user with feedback on the system status or errors via the OLED display, for example a display of overload, calibration status or battery level. [7] System according to claim 1, wherein the button enables the user to select and execute certain weighing functions such as tare, unit switching or zeroing the scale, wherein the corresponding instructions are processed by the Arduino Uno. [8] System according to claim 1, wherein the Arduino Uno processes the weight data at high speed, thus ensuring real-time display of the weight measurements without noticeable delay. [9] System according to claim 1, further comprising a power supply, wherein the system can be powered by battery or via a standard electrical outlet to provide flexible power supply options for different usage environments; wherein the load cell, the HX711 module and the OLED display are housed in a compact and durable enclosure that provides protection from environmental influences while maintaining ease of use. [10] System according to claim 1, wherein the Arduino Uno can be reprogrammed to adapt system functions or to provide an interface to additional external sensors for extended measurement functions.