Embedded Load Cell in Cup Component for Thinner Weighing Scale
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic weighing scales are limited in thinning due to the overall height being determined by the combined thickness of the load cell units and top plate component, which hinders space efficiency and transportability, particularly making it difficult for aged people and children to use safely.
Innovation Solution
The load cell units are embedded within the top plate component, reducing the overall thickness by attaching them through mounting holes that extend through the top plate, allowing for a thinner design while maintaining structural integrity and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If load cell units are attached from the bottom side of the top plate component, then measurement function is achieved, but overall thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell unit is embedded within a cup component that is integrated into the top plate component. The cup component acts as a housing that contains the load cell unit, allowing it to be nested within the overall structure rather than protruding from the bottom side. This nesting approach reduces the overall thickness while maintaining the measurement function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of attaching the load cell unit from the bottom side (vertical dimension), the invention embeds it within the top plate component using mounting holes that extend through the top plate. This shifts the attachment approach to a different dimensional arrangement, reducing the vertical thickness while achieving the same measurement function.
2Length of stationary object
If load cell units are embedded in the top plate component, then overall thickness is reduced, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cup component serves as an intermediary element between the top plate component and the load cell unit. It is attached to the top plate through mounting holes and provides a secure housing for the load cell unit. This intermediary structure distributes loads and stresses, maintaining structural integrity while enabling the embedding of the load cell unit to reduce overall thickness.
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
This configuration results in a more compact and portable electronic weighing scale that is safer for aged people and children to use, with reduced tripping hazards and improved space efficiency without compromising measurement accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
the sensing part generates strain corresponding to load applied thereto. When dead weight of an object to be weighed is applied to the strain generator to thereby induce strain in the sensing part, amount of the strain is measured and converted into an electric signal by the strain gauge
Data Source
AI summary
Aimed at providing an electronic weighing scale possibly thinned overall, an electronic weighing scale disclosed herein has a top plate component allowing on the top surface thereof placement of an object to be weighed; and load cell units supporting the top plate component from the lower side thereof, wherein the top plate component is provided with mounting holes so as to extend therethrough in the thickness-wise direction, allowing therein attachment of cup components each having an opening opened downward, and each load cell unit is attached inside each cup component.