Modular Inflatable Seal for Stable Scale Load Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scales with underfloor load outlets face issues with unstable locking of the load introduction element, cumbersome maintenance, and contamination from dirt accumulation, especially during cleaning with hot or aggressive liquids, which compromises weighing accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A modular seal with a fluid-inflatable sealing element extending parallel to the load introduction element, transmitting forces in two orthogonal directions to ensure stable locking and sealing, using a counter bearing to secure the load introduction element and prevent contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If an inflatable bellows seal is used to close the gap between the load application element and the housing, then the seal against contaminants is improved, but the locking stability of the load application element deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is divided into two independent functional modules: a sealing element (bellows) that closes the gap against contaminants, and a separate locking element with a latch mechanism that provides stable locking. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
A latch mechanism acts as an intermediary between the load application element and the housing, providing stable mechanical locking while allowing the sealing element to independently perform its contamination protection function. The latch mediates the locking function without interfering with the sealing action.
2Reliability
If the seal structure is made complex to achieve stable locking and sealing, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is designed as a modular assembly with distinct sealing and locking components that can be independently accessed and maintained. The bellows sealing element can be serviced separately from the latch locking mechanism, simplifying maintenance procedures while maintaining overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element and locking element are designed to be extractable from the housing structure, allowing maintenance personnel to remove and service these components without disassembling the entire scale housing. This extraction capability significantly ease maintenance while preserving the reliability of the sealed and locked configuration.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a labyrinth seal structure is used for underfloor load outlets, then the seal against contaminants is improved, but the ease of cleaning deteriorates due to dirt accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The bellows sealing element is designed to be extractable from the housing, allowing complete removal of the seal component for cleaning purposes. This extraction capability enables thorough cleaning of the underfloor load outlet area, removing accumulated dirt that would be difficult to access with a fixed labyrinth seal structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal design allows the bellows element to be temporarily removed (discarded from its installed position) during cleaning operations, enabling access to the sealing area for thorough cleaning. After cleaning, the seal is recovered and reinstalled, restoring the contaminant protection function.
4Strength
If the seal components are made robust to ensure stable locking and sealing, then the strength is improved, but the ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The robust seal system is segmented into pre-assembled modules (sealing element and locking element) that maintain their structural strength while being designed for simplified installation. Each module can be manufactured and tested independently, then installed as a unit, reducing installation complexity while preserving the strength required for reliable locking and sealing.
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 seal provides a reliable, gas-tight protection against contaminants and unwanted forces, facilitating easy installation and maintenance while maintaining weighing accuracy, suitable for underfloor load outlets and multi-lane scales.
Implementation Method 1
By changing its internal pressure, the sealing element can be selectively switched from a resting state to a sealed state or back again by inflating (sealing state) or contracting (resting state). Preferably, the sealing element is pressurized with compressed air
Implementation Method 2
The seal transmits forces in two mutually orthogonal directions into a counter bearing coupled to the load introduction element, which thereby ensures a particularly reliable seal and stable locking
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a modular seal for a scale, the load introduction element of which transmits a weight force in a vertical direction Z, the seal comprising a closure module with a sealing element forming a pressurizable chamber and a counter bearing having a sealing surface, wherein the chamber can be pressurized with a medium in such a way that a sealing section in the vertical direction Z rests against the sealing surface.