Modular Load Cell Array for Compact Weighing Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weighing systems with multiple load cells are complex and costly to assemble and maintain, particularly when arranging load cells in two-dimensional arrays with small distances, requiring individual calibration and adjustment for each cell.
Innovation Solution
The use of identical load cells arranged in an interchangeable two-dimensional array with detachable mechanical fixing and electrical contacting, combined with a carrier element and wiring board for precise positioning and calibration parameter transmission, allows for simplified assembly and maintenance without the need for full system disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If load cells are arranged in a two-dimensional array with small distances, then the weighing system achieves compact space utilization and high measurement density, but the assembly complexity and calibration effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The weighing system is divided into modular load cell units that can be independently assembled and calibrated. Each load cell is a separate module with standardized interfaces, allowing the two-dimensional array to be constructed by assembling identical modules rather than custom-configuring each position, thereby reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining compact space utilization
Solution Approach 2:
Identical load cell modules are used throughout the two-dimensional array, with each module serving the same weighing function and having universal mechanical and electrical interfaces. This standardization allows any module to be interchangeably assembled in any position within the array, significantly reducing assembly complexity and calibration effort compared to using individually different load cells
2Manufacturing precision
If individually different cantilevers are used to achieve small load receptor distances, then the weighing system achieves precise positioning, but the construction and assembly effort becomes very high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs identical cantilever designs with standardized geometry and mounting interfaces across all load cells in the array. This universality allows for precise positioning through standardized mechanical features (such as定位 holes and guide rails) rather than custom-adjustable individual cantilevers, achieving positioning precision while dramatically reducing manufacturing and assembly effort
Solution Approach 2:
The cantilevers and load cells are pre-assembled as complete modules with predetermined precise geometry before being installed in the array. This preliminary preparation of standardized modules eliminates the need for on-site adjustment and calibration during system assembly, reducing assembly effort while maintaining positioning precision
3Ease of repair
If load cells are made interchangeable and identical, then service and repair are simplified, but the ability to achieve precise positioning and small distances between load receptors becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs identical load cells with universal mechanical interfaces including standardized mounting holes, guide features, and positioning elements. These universal features ensure that interchangeable load cells can be precisely positioned at small distances from one another through the standardized array structure, maintaining positioning precision while enabling simplified service and repair
Solution Approach 2:
The load cell assembly is segmented into standardized components with precise geometric features that enable repeatable positioning. The modular design with standardized interfaces allows individual load cells to be easily replaced while maintaining precise relative positions in the array, achieving both serviceability and positioning precision
Data Source
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AI summary
Weighing system (1) with a plurality of weighing cells for the separate weighing of a plurality of items to be weighed, the weighing cells being of essentially identical design, being arranged interchangeably in a two-dimensional array and having means for the releasable, mechanical fixing on a support element (6) and electric contact-making means.