Load Cell Input Unit Broken Line Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load cell input units require extensive troubleshooting and labor to identify broken load cell connection cables, leading to inefficient diagnosis and prolonged downtime.
Innovation Solution
A load cell input unit with a mode switching element that allows for a broken line detection mode, using a voltage applying element to apply a specified voltage to distribution lines, enabling the load measuring element to determine if connection cables are broken without external testers, and sending the determination result to an external control device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If conventional load cell input units are used without broken line detection capability, then the device structure remains simple, but troubleshooting time and labor increase significantly when cables are broken
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing broken line detection before actual load measurement operations. The mode switching element enables the system to execute detection routines in advance, identifying cable faults before they affect measurement accuracy, thereby reducing troubleshooting time without significantly complicating the overall device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The load cell input unit performs self-diagnosis through the broken line detection function. The detection element monitors the integrity of connection cables autonomously, and the mode switching element enables this self-service capability without requiring external testing equipment, thus reducing both troubleshooting time and operational complexity
2Measurement precision
If broken line detection mode is added to the load cell input unit, then detection accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the voltage applying element and detection element to serve multiple functions. The voltage applying element not only provides excitation voltage for load measurement but also enables broken line detection when switched to detection mode. The detection element monitors both cable integrity and load signals, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and minimizing device complexity while maintaining high detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The mode switching element introduces dynamics by allowing the system to transition between measurement mode and broken line detection mode. This dynamic switching enables the same hardware components to perform different functions based on operational requirements, achieving high detection accuracy without permanently increasing device complexity through dedicated detection hardware
3Reliability
If continuous monitoring is performed to detect broken cables immediately, then reliability improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by switching between measurement operations and broken line detection operations at intervals. The mode switching element enables the system to perform broken line detection at designated periods rather than continuously, maintaining cable integrity monitoring reliability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring schemes
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
Enables rapid and accurate detection of broken load cell connection cables during operation, reducing troubleshooting time and frequency, and improving measurement accuracy by allowing the unit to switch between measuring and broken line detection modes.
Implementation Method 1
a voltage applying element (311) for respectively applying a specified voltage to distribution lines
Implementation Method 2
The load cell 10 of the measuring system 900 includes a Wheatstone bridge circuit containing a strain gauge RL1 and three resistors RL2-RL4
Implementation Method 3
By applying a load to the load cell 10, a resistance of the strain gauge RL1 changes
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3(a)~3(b)
AI summary
A load cell input unit capable of determining whether load cell connection cables have a broken line is provided. When the load cell input unit (30, 230, 930) is in a broken line detection mode, a voltage applying element (211, 311) applies a voltage to distribution lines of an amplifying element (31), and a broken line determination element (33) determines whether the load cell connection cables (40) have a broken line based on a voltage measured by a load measuring element (32).