Weighing devices and vehicles with weighing functions

Abstract

The present invention provides a weighing device and a vehicle with a weighing function that can prevent the rotation of a load cell without the need to attach additional components. [Solution] The weighing device comprises a load cell with a circular cross-section that extends in a first lateral direction and is capable of measuring loads applied in the vertical direction, and a support member that supports the load cell. The support member has a support hole through which the load cell is inserted and which supports the supported portion of the load cell. The cross-section of the support hole is formed in a non-circular shape by deforming a part of a circle, and the cross-section of the supported portion is formed in a non-circular shape that at least partially coincides with the cross-sectional shape of the support hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification relates to a weighing device and a vehicle with a weighing function.

Background Art

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a vehicle in which a load cell is incorporated to measure the weight of contents stored in a cargo box or a tank.

[0003] The load cell includes a cylindrical shaft-shaped elastic body, and the shaft-shaped elastic body is supported by a bearing portion. A retaining portion protrudes from the tip of the support portion of the shaft-shaped elastic body inserted through the through-hole of the bearing portion, and a concave portion for locking a flat locking piece is formed on the side surface of the retaining portion. By fixing the locking piece to the bearing portion, rotation and displacement of the shaft-shaped elastic body are prevented.

[0004] However, in order to prevent the rotation of the load cell, it is necessary to separately attach an additional member (locking piece in Patent Document 1), which has a problem of requiring laborious work.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the problem is to provide a weighing device and a vehicle with a weighing function that can prevent the rotation of the load cell without attaching an additional member.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] [1] The weighing device is The device comprises a load cell with a circular cross-section that extends in the first lateral direction and is capable of measuring loads applied in the vertical direction, and a support member that supports the load cell, The support member has a support hole through which the load cell is inserted and which supports the supported portion of the load cell. The cross-section of the support hole is formed in a non-circular shape, which is a part of a circle that has been deformed. The cross-section of the supported portion is formed in a non-circular shape that coincides with, at least in part, the cross-sectional shape of the support hole.

[0008] [2] Furthermore, in the weighing device described in [1] above, The cross-section of the support hole is shaped in such a way that a part of the circle is cut out by a straight line. This configuration is also acceptable.

[0009] [3] Furthermore, in the weighing device described in [2] above, The aforementioned straight line is a straight line extending in a second transverse direction perpendicular to the first transverse direction. This configuration is also acceptable.

[0010] [4] Furthermore, in the weighing device described in [2] above, The aforementioned straight line is a straight line extending in the vertical direction. This configuration is also acceptable.

[0011] [5] Furthermore, in any one of the weighing devices described in [1] to [4] above, The support member comprises a horizontal plate and a vertical plate erected on the horizontal plate. The aforementioned vertical plate is provided with the aforementioned support holes. This configuration is also acceptable.

[0012] [6] Furthermore, in any one of the weighing devices described in [1] to [5] above, The support member comprises a horizontal plate and a plurality of vertical plates erected on the horizontal plate at intervals in the first lateral direction. At least one of the vertical plates is provided with the support hole, The vertical plate without the support hole has a circular hole through which the load cell is inserted to support the load cell. Such a configuration may be adopted.

[0013] [7] Also, in any one of the weighing devices [1] to [6] above, The support member includes a horizontal plate, a first vertical plate and a second vertical plate erected on the horizontal plate at intervals in the first lateral direction, and a retaining plate adjacent to the second vertical plate in the first lateral direction. The first vertical plate has the support hole. The second vertical plate has a circular hole through which the load cell is inserted to support the load cell. The load cell has a locking groove formed on its outer peripheral surface for the retaining plate to lock. Such a configuration may be adopted.

[0014] [8] Also, a vehicle with a weighing function has a loading part capable of loading a load, a vehicle part on which the loading part is mounted, and any one of the weighing devices [1] to [7] arranged between the loading part and the vehicle part. The support member is fixed to the loading part or the vehicle part.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] [Figure 1] Overall view of the vehicle with a weighing function according to this embodiment [Figure 2] Cross-sectional view for explaining the configuration of the weighing device according to this embodiment [Figure 3] Front view of the load cell according to this embodiment [Figure 4] Cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 3 [Figure 5] Side view of the load cell according to this embodiment [Figure 6] Cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI of FIG. 2 [Figure 7]Cross-sectional view along line VII-VII in Figure 2 [Figure 8] A schematic diagram showing the wiring connections between the battery, indicator, and each load cell. [Figure 9] Functional block diagram to explain the configuration of the circuit section [Figure 10] A diagram showing the cross-sectional shape of the first large-diameter portion and the first vertical plate according to another embodiment. [Figure 11] Cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a weighing device according to another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] In each drawing, the dimensions of components may be enlarged or reduced from their actual dimensions for the sake of clarity, and the dimensional ratios between drawings may not be consistent. Furthermore, in each drawing, some components may be omitted for the sake of clarity.

[0017] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "1st," "2nd," etc., are used to describe various components, but these terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from others, and the components are not particularly limited by these terms. Furthermore, the number of components including ordinal numbers is not particularly limited; for example, there may be only one. Also, the ordinal numbers used in the following specification and drawings may differ from the ordinal numbers described in the claims.

[0018] The following description will explain one embodiment of a weighing device and a vehicle equipped with a weighing function, with reference to Figures 1 to 9. Note that the following embodiment is provided as an example to aid in understanding the configuration of the weighing device and the vehicle equipped with a weighing function, and does not limit the configuration of the weighing device and the vehicle equipped with a weighing function.

[0019] In the following explanation and diagrams, the first direction D1 is also called the front-to-back direction (also known as the "first lateral direction") D1, the second direction D2 is also called the left-to-right direction (also known as the "second lateral direction") D2, and the third direction D3 is also called the up-and-down direction D3. That is, each of the directions D1 to D3 is the direction as seen from the perspective of a person (driver) sitting in the driver's seat inside the driver's cab 103a of the weighing vehicle 100 when the weighing vehicle 100 is in motion.

[0020] In the forward / backward direction D1, the direction of the arrow in the diagram is considered the forward direction, and the direction opposite to the direction of the arrow in the diagram is considered the backward direction. In the left / right direction D2, the direction of the arrow in the diagram is considered the left direction, and the direction opposite to the direction of the arrow in the diagram is considered the right direction. In the up / down direction D3, the direction of the arrow in the diagram is considered the up direction, and the direction opposite to the direction of the arrow in the diagram is considered the down direction.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1, the weighing vehicle 100 comprises a loading section 101 on which loads can be loaded, a vehicle section 102 on which the loading section 101 is mounted, and a weighing device 110 positioned between the loading section 101 and the vehicle section 102. The weighing device 110 may also comprise a load cell 1, a support member 104e (details to be described later) that supports the load cell 1, and a transmission member 101e (details to be described later) that transmits the weight of the load to the load cell 1 while it is supported by the support member 104e.

[0022] The weighing vehicle 100 may be equipped with multiple weighing devices 110. For example, the weighing vehicle 100 may be equipped with four weighing devices 110. The weighing vehicle 100 may also be equipped with a battery 105 capable of supplying power to each load cell 1, and an indicator 106 that displays the weighing results output from each load cell 1.

[0023] The loading section 101 may include a cargo box 101a and a subdeck frame 101b. The cargo box 101a may, for example, include a cargo box body 101c having a discharge opening at its rear end, and a tailgate 101d rotatably connected to the cargo box body 101c so as to open and close the discharge opening, as in this embodiment.

[0024] The subdeck frame 101b is a member that reinforces the cargo box 101a and is welded to the bottom wall of the cargo box 101a. The subdeck frame 101b may be, for example, rectangular in shape.

[0025] Furthermore, the transmission member 101e is fixed to the loading section 101, as shown in Figure 2. Specifically, the transmission member 101e may be fixed to the sub-deck frame 101b. For example, four transmission members 101e may be provided. The four transmission members 101e are arranged at the four corners of the rectangular sub-deck frame 101b.

[0026] The transmission member 101e transmits the weight of the load to the load cell 1. As shown in Figure 2, the transmission member 101e is a block-shaped member that protrudes from the subdeck frame 101b toward the vehicle section 102 side (downward). The transmission member 101e is provided with a through hole 101f for the load cell. The inner diameter of the through hole 101f for the load cell is constant, and the load cell 1 is inserted through it.

[0027] The vehicle section 102 may include a vehicle body 103 and a rocking mechanism 104, as shown in Figure 1. The vehicle body 103 may include a driver's cab (also called a "cab") 103a and a chassis frame 103b extending rearward from the driver's cab 103a.

[0028] The rocking mechanism 104 is a mechanism that rocks the loading section 101 relative to the chassis frame 103b. The rocking mechanism 104 may include a main frame 104a fixed to the chassis frame 103b, a deck frame 104b to which the loading section 101 is fixed, a pin 104c that rotatably connects the deck frame 104b to the main frame 104a, and a dumping device 104d that rocks the deck frame 104b relative to the main frame 104a.

[0029] The main frame 104a is a rectangular frame-shaped member that is fixed to the chassis frame 103b. The main frame 104a is a rectangular frame-shaped member that is the same size as the chassis frame 103b and is fixed to the chassis frame 103b in a state where it is superimposed on the chassis frame 103b.

[0030] The deck frame 104b is a rectangular frame-shaped member to which the loading section 101 is fixed. The rear end of the main frame 104a is connected to the rear end of the deck frame 104b, and the connection between the main frame 104a and the deck frame 104b is a hinge structure. In this hinge structure, the pin 104c extends in the left-right direction D2. As a result, the deck frame 104b rotates around the pin 104c as an axis, and the loading section 101 fixed to the deck frame 104b moves between a reference position (position shown in Figure 1) and a dump position (not shown).

[0031] Furthermore, the support member 104e is fixed to the vehicle section 102, as shown in Figure 2. Specifically, the support member 104e may be fixed to the deck frame 104b. For example, four support members 104e may be provided. The four support members 104e are positioned at the four corners of the rectangular frame-shaped deck frame 104b.

[0032] The support member 104e supports the load cell 1. As shown in Figure 2, the support member 104e may include a first vertical plate 104f and a second vertical plate 104g arranged on the upper surface of the deck frame 104b at a distance D1 in the front-rear direction. The first vertical plate 104f and the second vertical plate 104g may be erected on a horizontal plate 104h fixed to the deck frame 104b. In the deck frame 104b of this embodiment, in the front support member 104e, the first vertical plate 104f and the second vertical plate 104g are arranged at a distance D2 in the left-right direction, and in the rear support member 104e, the first vertical plate 104f and the second vertical plate 104g are arranged at a distance D1 in the front-rear direction. Figures 2 to 7 show the rear support member 104e, the load cell 1, and the transmission member 101e.

[0033] The four support members 104e are positioned opposite each of the four corresponding transmission members 101e. The first vertical plate 104f and the second vertical plate 104g are positioned to sandwich the corresponding transmission members 101e from both sides.

[0034] The first vertical plate 104f and the second vertical plate 104g are each provided with a first load cell through hole 104i and a second load cell through hole 104j that penetrate in opposite directions to each other. A load cell 1, which is inserted through the load cell through hole 101f of the transmission member 101e, is inserted through the first load cell through hole 104i and the second load cell through hole 104j, respectively.

[0035] The vehicle section 102 is configured to mount the loading section 101 by connecting the deck frame 104b and the sub-deck frame 101b such that the deck frame 104b and the sub-deck frame 101b of the loading section 101 overlap. At this time, a gap of vertical D3 is formed between the deck frame 104b and the sub-deck frame 101b so that the weight of the loading section 101 is transmitted to the load cell 1.

[0036] As shown in Figure 2, the load cell 1 is a cylindrical member extending in the first lateral direction D1, and the magnitude of the load can be measured by detecting the strain caused by the load (in this embodiment, the weight of the load) applied to the load cell 1.

[0037] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the load cell 1 comprises a load cell body 2 extending in a first lateral direction D1 and subject to deformation when the weight of the load is applied, a bottomed cylindrical housing 3 adjacent to the end of the load cell body 2 in the first lateral direction D1, and a strain gauge 4 fixed to the load cell body 2 and used to detect the deformation of the load cell body 2.

[0038] Furthermore, the load cell 1 includes a circuit section 5 housed in a housing section 3, and a first wiring 6 extending from the circuit section 5 to the outside of the housing section 3. A cable 107 extending from the battery 105 and the indicator 106 is connected to this first wiring 6 (see Figure 8). In addition, the load cell 1 includes a second wiring 7 connecting the strain gauge 4 and the circuit section 5.

[0039] The load cell body 2 is a substantially cylindrical member made of metal and having a central axis along the first transverse direction D1. The load cell body 2 may include a plurality of small-diameter portions 21 arranged at intervals in the first transverse direction D1, a plurality of large-diameter portions 22a, 22b, 22c arranged at intervals in the first transverse direction D1, and a connecting portion 23 arranged at one end of the first transverse direction D1. For example, the load cell body 2 includes two small-diameter portions 21 and three large-diameter portions 22a, 22b, 22c. Each small-diameter portion 21 is arranged between two large-diameter portions 22a, 22c and between two large-diameter portions 22b, 22c. The three large-diameter portions 22a, 22b, 22c may include a first large-diameter portion 22a, a second large-diameter portion 22b, and a third large-diameter portion 22c.

[0040] The first large-diameter portion 22a has an outer surface that coincides with the inner surface of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell. The second large-diameter portion 22b has an outer surface that coincides with the inner surface of the through-hole 104j for the second load cell. The third large-diameter portion 22c has an outer surface that coincides with the inner surface of the through-hole 101f for the load cell. On the other hand, the small-diameter portions 21 and the connecting portions 23 have smaller diameters than the large-diameter portions 22a, 22b, and 22c. Furthermore, each small-diameter portion 21 and connecting portion 23 has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of each of the through-holes 104i, 104j, and 101f for the load cells.

[0041] As shown in Figure 6, the cross-section of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell is formed in a non-circular shape, which is a deformed part of a circle. The cross-section of the first large-diameter portion 22a is also formed in a non-circular shape that matches the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell. As a result, the through-hole 104i for the first load cell can prevent the rotation of the first large-diameter portion 22a, and thus prevent the rotation of the load cell 1.

[0042] Furthermore, the cross-section of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell may be formed in a shape in which a part of the circle 104m is cut out by a straight line 104n, for example, as shown in Figure 6. The cross-section of the first large-diameter portion 22a may also be formed in a shape in which a part of the circle is cut out by a straight line, so as to match the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell. As a result, the through-hole 104i for the first load cell contacts the first large-diameter portion 22a at two points to restrict rotation, making it less susceptible to damage. In addition, by making the cross-section of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell a shape in which a part of the circle 104m is cut out by a straight line 104n, that is, by making a part of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell (and the first large-diameter portion 22a) a flat surface, the processing of the support member 104e and the load cell body 2 becomes easier, reducing the burden on the worker.

[0043] Furthermore, the straight line 104n may be a straight line extending in the left-right direction D2. This makes it less likely for the through-hole 104i for the first load cell to be damaged when a load in the vertical direction D3 is applied to the load cell 1, as it receives the load from the first large-diameter portion 22a on a flat surface. In particular, it is preferable that the straight line 104n is located below the center of the circle 104m.

[0044] A locking groove 23a is formed on the side surface of the connecting portion 23, into which a plate-shaped anti-rotation plate 104k (see Figures 2 and 7) is locked. The anti-rotation plate 104k is fixed to the second vertical plate 104g while locked in the locking groove 23a. The anti-rotation plate 104k is fixed to the second vertical plate 104g, for example, by bolts. This prevents displacement of the load cell 1 and further prevents rotation of the load cell 1.

[0045] Furthermore, the load cell body 2 includes a strain gauge chamber 24 in which the strain gauge 4 is housed. The strain gauge 4 is adhesively fixed to the strain gauge chamber 24. The strain gauge chamber 24 is a hole that is recessed radially in the small diameter portion 21. The strain gauge chamber 24 is recessed in the small diameter portion 21, for example, in the left-right direction D2. In the load cell body 2 of this embodiment, a pair of strain gauge chambers 24 are arranged opposite each other in the left-right direction D2 of one small diameter portion 21. The inside of the strain gauge chamber 24 may be subjected to potting, which will be described later.

[0046] Furthermore, the load cell body 2 may have a counterbore 24a that is radially recessed around the entire circumference of the opening of the strain gauge chamber 24, as shown in Figure 4. In Figures 3 and 4, each strain gauge chamber 24 is shown with an opening facing outwards, but in reality, the opening is closed by a lid (not shown), and this lid is placed in the counterbore 24a.

[0047] Furthermore, the load cell body 2 may include a wiring arrangement section 25 extending from the strain gauge chamber 24 to the housing section 3. The wiring arrangement section 25 is a hole in which the second wiring 7 connecting the strain gauge 4 and the circuit section 5 is arranged. The wiring arrangement section 25 is a hole extending in the first lateral direction D1 of the load cell body 2, and connects adjacent strain gauge chambers 24 in the first lateral direction D1, or connects the strain gauge chamber 24 to the inside of the housing section 3.

[0048] The housing portion 3 is positioned adjacent to the first lateral end D1 of the load cell body 2. Specifically, the housing portion 3 is positioned adjacent to the connection portion 23 of the load cell body 2. The housing portion 3 is a bottomed cylindrical member positioned coaxially with the load cell body 2 and having an opening 3a. The housing portion 3 may include a cylindrical portion 3b, a bottom portion 3c that closes one end of the cylindrical portion 3b, and a notch 3d formed in the cylindrical portion 3b from a part of the opening 3a toward the bottom portion 3c.

[0049] The cylindrical portion 3b is, for example, cylindrical. The bottom portion 3c is, for example, disc-shaped. The bottom portion 3c has a through hole formed continuously with the wiring arrangement portion 25. The notch 3d is, for example, a rectangular notch.

[0050] The second wiring 7 connects the strain gauge 4 and the circuit section 5 through the wiring arrangement section 25. The second wiring 7 includes an input line 71 for inputting (applying) a predetermined voltage (applied voltage) output from the circuit section 5 to the strain gauge 4, and an output line 72 for transmitting the voltage output from the strain gauge 4 to the circuit section 5 (see Figure 9).

[0051] The length of each second wire 7 may be greater than or equal to the distance from the strain gauge 4 to the opening 3a of the housing 3. This allows for extra length in the second wires 7, making it easier for the worker to perform connection work (soldering, etc.) between the second wires 7 and the circuit section 5 outside the housing 3.

[0052] Each strain gauge 4 detects the resistance change caused by its expansion and contraction in conjunction with the load cell body 2, converts it into a voltage change, and outputs it. Specifically, when a predetermined voltage is applied to the strain gauge 4, it expands and contracts in conjunction with the load cell body 2, causing the voltage output from the strain gauge 4 to change. The voltage output from the strain gauge 4 is an analog signal.

[0053] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the circuit section 5 may include a first substrate 51 and a second substrate 52 fixed on top of the first substrate 51. The first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 are fixed in parallel. The first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 are arranged along a first lateral direction D1. That is, the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 are arranged along a direction perpendicular to the bottom 3c of the housing section 3. This makes it easy to house the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 into the housing section 3 through the opening 3a. It also makes it easy to remove the substrates 51 and 52 from the housing section 3 through the opening 3a. Furthermore, it makes it easy to check the condition of the substrates 51 and 52 from outside the housing section 3 through the opening 3a.

[0054] As shown in Figure 5, the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 are arranged such that, when viewed in the direction of the central axis of the housing 3 (first transverse direction D1 in this embodiment), the direction D4 perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 is inclined with respect to the direction D5 perpendicular to the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 3b where the notch 3d is formed (radial direction of the cylindrical portion 3b in this embodiment). Note that inclination of direction D4 with respect to direction D5 means that direction D4 is not parallel to direction D5, and also includes the case where direction D4 is perpendicular to direction D5. As a result, as shown in Figure 5, even when the first wiring 6 is brought out of the housing 3 in a slack state within the housing 3, the load on the first wiring 6 can be reduced compared to when the direction D4 perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 is parallel to the direction D5 perpendicular to the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 3b where the notch 3d is formed. The reason for leaving the first wire 6 slack inside the housing 3 and bringing it out of the housing 3 is that if the first wire 6 were left straight and not slack inside the housing 3, a pulling force would be directly applied to the circuit section 5 and the soldered part of the first wire 6 when the first wire 6 is pulled. By leaving the first wire 6 slack, this pulling force can be mitigated.

[0055] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the second substrate 52 is smaller than the first substrate 51. Furthermore, the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 are positioned such that their ends on the opening 3a side coincide in the first lateral direction D1. This creates a stepped portion 53 between the overlapping first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52. The stepped portion 53 is on the surface of the first substrate 51 facing the second substrate 52 and is located on the side of the second substrate 52. A portion of the second wiring 7 may be housed in this stepped portion 53. Note that a portion of the second wiring 7 may be housed in the stepped portion 53 in a coiled state. This allows a portion of the second wiring 7 to be housed in the remaining space of the circuit section 5 (in this embodiment, the stepped portion 53), eliminating the need to provide separate space for the second wiring 7 and thus saving space.

[0056] The first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 may be fixed in the housing section 3 by potting. Potting is a processing method in which the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 are placed in the housing section 3, resin is filled into the housing section 3, and the resin is allowed to solidify to fix the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52. This allows the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 to be removed by scraping out the resin and then repositioned in the housing section 3, even if they are incorrectly fixed in the wrong position.

[0057] As shown in Figure 4, the load cell 1 may include a lid 31 that is detachably provided on the opening 3a of the housing 3, and a fixing member 32 that fixes the lid 31 to the opening 3a. By making the lid 31 detachable from the opening 3a, the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 can be easily removed. In addition, the lid 31 can suppress the lifting of the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52, and can also suppress leakage of the resin during the potting process.

[0058] The fixing member 32 may be a snap ring, for example, as in this embodiment. In this case, a ring groove 3e into which the snap ring is inserted is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 3b near the opening 3a of the housing portion 3, as shown in Figures 3 and 4.

[0059] As shown in Figure 9, the circuit unit 5 includes an application unit 5a that applies a predetermined voltage to the strain gauge 4, and a calculation unit 5b that derives the weight applied to the load cell body 2 from the voltage output from the strain gauge 4 and outputs the derived weight as a weight signal.

[0060] The voltage application unit 5a is provided, for example, on the first substrate 51. The voltage application unit 5a applies a voltage to each strain gauge 4 and also applies a voltage to each calculation unit 5b.

[0061] The calculation unit 5b is provided, for example, on the second substrate 52. The second substrate 52 may further include an input unit 5c to which the voltage output from each strain gauge 4 is input, a memory unit 5d for storing the calculation results from the calculation unit 5b, a temperature sensor 5e for detecting the ambient temperature, and an output unit 5f for outputting the weight signal output from the calculation unit 5b to the outside.

[0062] The calculation unit 5b derives the weight applied to the load cell body 2 based on the changes in voltage output from each of the four strain gauges 4, and outputs the derived result as a weight signal. The calculation unit 5b can also correct the derived weight based on the ambient temperature detected by the temperature sensor 5e.

[0063] The memory section 5d is non-volatile memory.

[0064] The output unit 5f outputs the weight derived by the calculation unit 5b to the indicator 106, etc. The output unit 5f converts the weight signal output from the calculation unit 5b into a digital signal and outputs it. The output unit 5f communicates with the indicator 106, etc., for example, via CAN (Controller Area Network).

[0065] The first wiring 6 is a wire that extends from the circuit section 5 (specifically, the application section 5a of the first substrate 51 and the output section 5f of the second substrate 52) to the outside of the housing section 3, and the circuit section 5 is connected to the battery 105 and the indicator 106 by connecting the cable wire 107 (see Figure 8). As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first wiring 6 extends to the outside of the housing section 3 by passing through the notch 3d of the housing section 3. This makes it easier for the worker to perform the connection work (soldering, etc.) between the first wiring 6 and the circuit section 5 outside of the housing section 3, and then house the circuit section 5 inside the housing section 3 with the first wiring 6 connected. As shown in Figure 4, the first wiring 6 extends to the outside of the housing section 3 by passing through the notch 3d in a direction perpendicular to the strain gauge 4 (in this embodiment, the left-right direction D2).

[0066] The battery 105 supplies power to each load cell 1 (specifically, the circuit unit 5) and the indicator 106 via the cable wire 107.

[0067] The indicator 106 is located in the driver's cab 103a and displays the weight of the load placed on the loading section 101 based on the weight signals output from each load cell 1 (circuit section 5). Furthermore, the indicator 106 may also display the weight applied to each load cell 1, the center of gravity of the load (loading section 101) determined based on the weight applied to each load cell 1, and the like.

[0068] As described above, the weighing device 110, as in this embodiment, comprises a load cell 1 with a circular cross-section that extends in the first lateral direction D1 and is capable of measuring the load applied in the vertical direction D3, and a support member 104e that supports the load cell 1. The support member 104e is provided with a support hole (in this embodiment, a through hole for the first load cell) 104i through which the load cell 1 is inserted and which supports the supported portion (in this embodiment, the first large-diameter portion) 22a of the load cell 1. The cross-section of the support hole (in this embodiment, the through-hole for the first load cell) 104i is formed in a non-circular shape by deforming a part of the circle 104m. It is preferable that the cross-section of the supported portion (in this embodiment, the first large-diameter portion) 22a is formed in a non-circular shape that at least partially coincides with the cross-sectional shape of the support hole (in this embodiment, the through-hole for the first load cell) 104i.

[0069] With this configuration, simply by inserting the load cell 1 into the support hole (in this embodiment, the through hole for the first load cell) 104i of the support member 104e, the support hole (in this embodiment, the through hole for the first load cell) 104i can prevent the rotation of the supported portion (in this embodiment, the first large-diameter portion) 22a of the load cell 1, thus preventing the rotation of the load cell 1 without attaching any additional members.

[0070] Furthermore, in the weighing device 110, it is preferable that the cross-section of the support hole (through hole for the first load cell in this embodiment) 104i is shaped such that a part of the circle 104m is cut out by a straight line 104n, as in this embodiment.

[0071] With this configuration, the support hole (in this embodiment, the through hole for the first load cell) 104i contacts the supported portion (in this embodiment, the first large-diameter portion) 22a at two points to restrict rotation, thus making it less susceptible to damage.

[0072] Furthermore, in the weighing device 110, it is preferable that the straight line 104n is a straight line extending in a second lateral direction D2 that is perpendicular to the first lateral direction D1, as in this embodiment.

[0073] With this configuration, when a load D3 in the vertical direction is applied to the load cell 1, the support hole (in this embodiment, the through hole for the first load cell) 104i receives the load from the supported part (in this embodiment, the first large-diameter part) 22a on a flat surface, making it less susceptible to damage.

[0074] Furthermore, in the weighing device 110, it is preferable that the support member 104e comprises a horizontal plate 104h and a vertical plate (first vertical plate in this embodiment) 104f erected on the horizontal plate 104h, and that the vertical plate (first vertical plate in this embodiment) 104f comprises the support hole (through hole for the first load cell in this embodiment) 104i.

[0075] With this configuration, the vertical plate 104f supporting the load cell 1 is stable, so the support member 104e can properly support the load cell 1.

[0076] Furthermore, in the weighing device 110, as in this embodiment, the support member 104e comprises a horizontal plate 104h and a plurality of vertical plates (in this embodiment, a first vertical plate and a second vertical plate) 104f, 104g erected on the horizontal plate 104h at intervals in the first horizontal direction D1, wherein at least one of the vertical plates (in this embodiment, a first vertical plate) 104f has a support hole (in this embodiment, a through hole for the first load cell) 104i, and the vertical plate (in this embodiment, a second vertical plate) 104g that does not have a support hole (in this embodiment, a through hole for the first load cell) 104i has a circular hole (in this embodiment, a through hole for the second load cell) 104j through which the load cell 1 is inserted and which supports the load cell 1.

[0077] With this configuration, the support member 104e can support the load cell 1 at multiple points, and therefore the support member 104e can properly support the load cell 1.

[0078] Furthermore, in the weighing device 110, as in this embodiment, the support member 104e comprises a horizontal plate 104h, a first vertical plate 104f and a second vertical plate 104g erected on the horizontal plate 104h at a distance from each other in a first horizontal direction D1, and an anti-rotation plate 104k adjacent to the second vertical plate 104g in the first horizontal direction D1, wherein the first vertical plate 104f is provided with the support hole (in this embodiment, a through hole for the first load cell) 104i, the second vertical plate 104g is provided with a circular hole (in this embodiment, a through hole for the second load cell) 104j through which the load cell 1 is inserted and which supports the load cell 1, and the load cell 1 has a locking groove 23a formed on its outer circumferential surface for locking the anti-rotation plate 104k.

[0079] With this configuration, the support member 104e can further prevent the rotation of the load cell 1.

[0080] Furthermore, the weighing vehicle 100, as in this embodiment, preferably comprises a loading section 101 on which cargo can be loaded, a vehicle section 102 on which the loading section 101 is mounted, and the weighing device 110 positioned between the loading section 101 and the vehicle section 102, with the support member 104e being fixed to the loading section 101 or the vehicle section 102 (in this embodiment, the vehicle section 102).

[0081] With this configuration, rotation of the load cell 1 can be prevented without attaching any additional components.

[0082] It should be noted that the weighing device 110 and the weighing vehicle 100 are not limited to the configuration of the embodiments described above, nor are they limited to the effects described above. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the weighing device 110 and the weighing vehicle 100 can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, one or more of the configurations and methods described below may be arbitrarily selected and adopted in the configurations and methods of the embodiments described above.

[0083] (A) In the weighing device 110 according to the above embodiment, the cross-section of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell is configured such that a part of the circle 104m is cut out by a straight line 104n. However, the weighing device 110 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the cross-section of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell may be configured such that a part of the circle 104m protrudes or is recessed. In other words, the cross-section of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell may be any shape other than a perfect circle (non-circular shape).

[0084] (A-1) In the weighing device 110 according to the above embodiment, the cross-section of the first large-diameter portion 22a is formed in a non-circular shape that perfectly matches the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell. However, the weighing device 110 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the cross-section of the first large-diameter portion 22a only needs to be formed in a non-circular shape that at least partially matches the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell. In the example shown in Figure 10(a), the cross-section of the first large-diameter portion 22a is formed in a shape in which the upper and lower parts of a circle are cut out by straight lines. As a result, the upper part of the first large-diameter portion 22a does not perfectly match the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell.

[0085] (A-2) In the example shown in Figure 10(b), the cross-section of the first large-diameter portion 22a has a recess formed at the top of the circle. As a result, the top of the first large-diameter portion 22a does not perfectly match the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell.

[0086] (A-3) In the example shown in Figure 10(c), the cross-section of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell has a recess formed at the top of the circle 104m. As a result, the upper part of the first large-diameter portion 22a does not perfectly match the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell.

[0087] (B) In addition, in the weighing device 110 according to the above embodiment, the straight line 104n is a straight line extending in the second horizontal direction D2 which is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction D1. However, the weighing device 110 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the straight line 104n may be a straight line extending in the vertical direction D3, as shown in Figure 10(d). That is, the straight line 104n may cut out any part of the circle 104m, either vertically or horizontally.

[0088] (C) In addition, in the weighing device 110 according to the above embodiment, the support member 104e comprises a horizontal plate 104h and a first vertical plate 104f erected on the horizontal plate 104h, and the first vertical plate 104f is provided with a through hole 104i for the first load cell. However, the weighing device 110 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the first vertical plate 104f may be directly fixed to the vehicle section 102 (specifically, the deck frame 104b).

[0089] (D) In ​​addition, in the weighing device 110 according to the above embodiment, the support member 104e comprises a horizontal plate 104h and a plurality of first vertical plates 104f and second vertical plates 104g erected on the horizontal plate 104h at intervals in the first horizontal direction D1, wherein the first vertical plate 104f has a through hole 104i for a first load cell, and the second vertical plate 104g, which does not have a through hole 104i for a first load cell, has a through hole 104j for a second load cell through which the load cell 1 is inserted and which supports the load cell 1. That is, the cross-section of the through hole 104j for the second load cell is circular. However, the weighing device 110 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the cross-section of the through-hole 104j for the second load cell may be the same shape as the cross-section of the through-hole 104i for the first load cell, and the cross-section of the second large-diameter portion 22b may be the same shape as the cross-section of the first large-diameter portion 22a. In this case, it is preferable that the cross-section of the third large-diameter portion 22c is also the same shape as the cross-sections of the first large-diameter portion 22a and the second large-diameter portion 22b.

[0090] (E) In addition, in the weighing device 110 according to the above embodiment, the support member 104e is configured to include a horizontal plate 104h, a first vertical plate 104f and a second vertical plate 104g erected on the horizontal plate 104h at a distance from each other in the first horizontal direction D1, and an anti-rotation plate 104k adjacent to the second vertical plate 104g in the first horizontal direction D1. However, the weighing device 110 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the support member 104e may be configured without the anti-rotation plate 104k.

[0091] (F) In addition, the weighing vehicle 100 according to the above embodiment comprises a loading section 101 on which loads can be loaded, a vehicle section 102 on which the loading section 101 is mounted, and a weighing device 110 positioned between the loading section 101 and the vehicle section 102, with the support member 104e fixed to the vehicle section 102. However, the weighing vehicle 100 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the support member 104e may be fixed to the loading section 101. In this case, the load cell 1 is suspended from the subdeck frame 101b of the loading section 101.

[0092] (G) In addition, in the weighing device 110 according to the above embodiment, the support member 104e comprises a horizontal plate 104h and a first vertical plate 104f and a second vertical plate 104g erected on the horizontal plate 104h at a distance from each other in the first lateral direction D1. However, the weighing device 110 is not limited to this configuration. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the support member 104e may be configured to comprise a horizontal plate 104h and a single vertical plate 104f erected on the horizontal plate 104h. In this case, the load cell 1 is cantilevered by the support member 104e.

[0093] (H) In the weighing device 110 according to the above embodiment, the load cell 1 is configured to extend in the front-rear direction D1. However, the weighing device 110 is not limited to this configuration. The load cell 1 may be configured to extend, for example, in the left-right direction D2. Also, the load cell 1 may be configured to extend in a horizontal direction other than the front-rear direction D1 and the left-right direction D2.

[0094] (I) In addition, the weighing vehicle 100 of the above embodiment is configured as a dump truck. However, the weighing vehicle 100 is not limited to this configuration. The weighing vehicle 100 may be a refuse truck, a tank truck, a freight truck, a mixer truck, a powder and granular material transport vehicle, a cargo bed or tailgate lift of a vehicle with a tailgate lift, a container transport vehicle, a vehicle with a detachable body, a washing and suction vehicle, etc. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0095] 1...Load cell, 2...Load cell body, 3...Housing section, 3a...Opening, 3b...Cylindrical section, 3c...Bottom section, 3d...Notch, 3e...Ring groove, 4...Strain gauge, 5...Circuit section, 5a...Application section, 5b...Calculation section, 5c...Input section, 5d...Memory section, 5e...Temperature sensor, 5f...Output section, 6...First wiring, 7...Second wiring, 21...Small diameter section, 22a...First large diameter section, 22b...Second Large diameter section, 22c... Third large diameter section, 23... Connection section, 23a... Locking groove, 24... Strain gauge chamber, 24a... Counterbore section, 25... Wiring arrangement section, 31... Cover, 32... Fixing member, 51... First circuit board, 52... Second circuit board, 53... Step section, 71... Input line, 72... Output line, 100... Vehicle with weighing function, 101... Loading section, 101a... Cargo box, 101b... Subdeck frame, 10 1c...Cargo box body, 101d...Tailgate, 101e...Transmission member, 101f...Through hole for load cell, 102...Vehicle section, 103...Vehicle body, 103a...Driver's cab, 103b...Chassis frame, 104...Oscillating mechanism section, 104a...Main frame, 104b...Deck frame, 104c...Pin, 104d...Dumping device, 104e...Support member, 104f...First vertical plate, 104g...Second vertical plate, 104h...Horizontal plate, 104i...Through hole for first load cell, 104j...Through hole for second load cell, 104k...Anti-rotation plate, 104m...Circle, 104n...Straight line, 105...Battery, 106...Indicator, 107...Cable wire, D1...Front-rear direction (first lateral direction), D2...Left-right direction (second lateral direction), D3...Up-down direction

Claims

1. The device comprises a load cell with a circular cross-section that extends in the first lateral direction and is capable of measuring loads applied in the vertical direction, and a support member that supports the load cell. The support member has a support hole through which the load cell is inserted and which supports the supported portion of the load cell. The cross-section of the support hole is formed in a non-circular shape, which is a part of a circle that has been deformed. A weighing device wherein the cross-section of the supported portion is formed in a non-circular shape that coincides with, at least in part, the cross-sectional shape of the support hole.

2. The weighing device according to claim 1, wherein the cross-section of the support hole has a shape in which a part of a circle is cut out by a straight line.

3. The weighing device according to claim 2, wherein the aforementioned straight line is a straight line extending in a second transverse direction perpendicular to the first transverse direction.

4. The weighing device according to claim 2, wherein the straight line is a straight line extending in the vertical direction.

5. The support member comprises a horizontal plate and a vertical plate erected on the horizontal plate. The weighing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the vertical plate is provided with the support holes.

6. The support member comprises a horizontal plate and a plurality of vertical plates erected on the horizontal plate at intervals in the first lateral direction. At least one of the vertical plates is provided with the support hole, The weighing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the vertical plate that does not have the support hole has a circular hole through which the load cell is inserted and which supports the load cell.

7. The support member comprises a horizontal plate, a first vertical plate and a second vertical plate erected on the horizontal plate at a distance from each other in the first lateral direction, and an anti-rotation plate adjacent to the second vertical plate in the first lateral direction. The first vertical plate is provided with the support holes, The second vertical plate has a circular hole through which the load cell is inserted and which supports the load cell, The weighing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the load cell has a locking groove formed on its outer surface for locking the anti-rotation plate.

8. A loading section capable of loading cargo, A vehicle section on which the aforementioned loading section is mounted, The device comprises a weighing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which is disposed between the loading section and the vehicle section. The support member is a vehicle with a weighing function, fixed to the loading section or the vehicle section.

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