Compact Load Cell Matrix With Snap-In Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weighing devices with large load cells are inefficient for applications requiring small distances between feed elements, limiting the number of load cells that can be arranged and complicating their installation and removal, especially in compact spaces.
Innovation Solution
A weighing device with a receiving structure that includes a latching mechanism for easy installation and removal of load cells, allowing for a compact arrangement and parallel measurement of small, expensive products, featuring a fastening system with guide devices to ensure correct alignment and secure mechanical and electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If load cells are arranged in a satellite-like manner around load carriers to adapt to small distances between feed elements, then the adaptability to compact loading devices is improved, but the device complexity increases due to complex alignment and positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into separate components: a fastening element on the load cell and a complementary fastening device on the receiving holder. This segmentation allows independent positioning and simplifies the overall alignment process, as each component has a defined function rather than requiring complex multi-point alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
Alignment elements serve as intermediaries between the load cell and receiving holder. These elements facilitate correct positioning during installation without requiring complex alignment procedures, as they guide the load cell into the proper position automatically upon insertion.
2Stability of the object's composition
If load cells are made large to accommodate feed elements, then the structural stability is improved, but the productivity decreases due to limited number of load cells that can be arranged in compact spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from horizontal/planar arrangement of load cells to a three-dimensional configuration where load cells are stacked vertically on top of each other. This vertical stacking enables multiple load cells to be arranged in a compact space without increasing the horizontal footprint, thereby maintaining structural stability while increasing productivity through parallel weighing of multiple items.
3Reliability
If load cells are designed for permanent placement in machines, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of repair worsens due to difficulty in removing and replacing load cells
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is designed to be dynamically adjustable between a locked state (for reliable measurement during operation) and an unlocked state (for easy removal and replacement). The fastening element can be securely engaged to ensure measurement reliability, but can also be quickly released using a simple actuation mechanism (such as pressing a button or lever) to facilitate maintenance and repair.
4Productivity
If multiple load cells are arranged in parallel for fast weighing of small products, then the productivity is improved, but the area requirement increases making compact arrangement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention utilizes the vertical dimension to arrange multiple load cells in a stacked configuration rather than spreading them out horizontally. This allows multiple load cells to operate in parallel for fast weighing while maintaining a compact horizontal footprint, effectively resolving the contradiction between productivity and area requirement.
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 efficient and fast weighing of small products with high throughput by allowing multiple load cells to be arranged in a compact matrix structure, facilitating easy service and ensuring accurate, reproducible measurements.
Implementation Method 1
At least two spring elements (11a, 11b) are mounted on the base plate (8), each spring element (11a, 11b) having a ball (12a, 12b) at its free end which, upon insertion of the weighing cell (2a), snap into a groove (14a, 14b) of the first fastening device (13a)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a weighing device comprising a weighing cell and a receiving structure for receiving at least one weighing cell, wherein the at least one weighing cell is provided with a first fastening device for fastening in the receiving structure and the receiving structure is provided with a second fastening structure complementing the first. The fastening structures comprise a detent mechanism and the weighing cells are designed such that they are held with lockable and unlockable positive fit or released therefrom by means of simple actuation acting on the weighing cell in form of pressure in the direction of the load or in the form of pull opposite to the direction of the load.