Self-standing Weighing Scale Cantilever Load Cell Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional weighing scales in retail environments face challenges such as increased height to reduce footprint, precision issues due to vibration from optical sensors, and limited repositionability due to power constraints, while also requiring robustness for untrained user operation and adaptability to different locations with varying gravitational constants.
Innovation Solution
A compact weighing scale design featuring a cantilever load cell with a carriage and cradle system that allows free deformation, a retaining system with resilient members for the weighing plate, and a moveable apparatus with a retractable stabilizing device and UPS for power independence, enabling accurate measurements and easy relocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional compression load cells are used in standing scales, then the scale can measure compression loads, but the height of the scale must increase to accommodate the load cell and optical sensor separation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a vertical arrangement (compression load cell below weighing plate) to a horizontal arrangement (beam load cell offset from center). This dimensional change allows the optical sensor to be positioned at the same level as the load cell, reducing scale height while maintaining measurement precision through the beam load cell's ability to measure lateral deflection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a beam structure as an intermediary between the weighing plate and the load cell. The beam load cell measures the deflection of this beam rather than directly supporting the weighing plate, enabling compact vertical arrangement while preserving measurement accuracy through beam deflection measurement
2Adaptability or versatility
If the weighing scale is moved to different locations in the store, then adaptability to different configurations is improved, but recalibration is required due to varying gravitational constants
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic calibration functionality that allows the weighing scale to self-adjust to local gravitational conditions without requiring manual intervention from trained personnel. The system automatically detects and compensates for gravitational variations when moved to different locations, enabling untrained users to relocate the scale freely
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates sensors (such as accelerometers or GPS) that automatically detect changes in gravitational parameters when the scale is moved. The system dynamically adjusts calibration parameters based on detected location changes, eliminating the need for manual recalibration and enabling seamless repositioning
3Volume of stationary object
If the load cell is positioned below the weighing plate, then the structure is compact, but vibration from optical sensors negatively impacts load cell precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the optical sensor from the immediate vicinity of the load cell by positioning it separately from the weighing plate area. This separation eliminates the harmful vibration interference while maintaining compact overall design through the beam load cell configuration that allows distributed component placement
Solution Approach 2:
The beam structure serves as an intermediary that decouples the weighing plate from the load cell. This allows the optical sensor to be positioned away from the load cell without compromising the measurement path, as the beam transmits force information to the load cell while isolating the sensor from vibrational interference
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a compact, accurate, and robust weighing scale that can be easily moved and operated by untrained users, maintaining precision across different locations and gravitational zones, while reducing the need for frequent recalibration and minimizing the impact of knocks.
Implementation Method 1
the load cell being configured to deform when a load is applied to the carriage
Data Source
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AI summary
A weighing scale comprising a case for housing electrical components; a load cell; a carriage coupled to the load cell, wherein the carriage is configured for receiving a weighing plate; wherein the at least a portion of the carriage extends over the case.