Modular Weighing Scale Base with Orthogonal Cell Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retail scales require multiple base units for different configurations, such as counter, compact, and suspension scales, leading to complex logistics and inventory management for manufacturers and distributors, as existing solutions are not compatible with modern retail scale designs.
Innovation Solution
A modular weighing scale design featuring a base unit that can be configured in two positions, allowing the same module to function as a counter scale, compact scale, or suspension scale, with a load receiver and weighing cell orientation adapting to each configuration, enabling a single base unit to serve multiple applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple base units are used for different scale configurations (counter, compact, suspension scales), then each configuration can be optimized for its specific application, but the complexity of logistics and inventory management increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit is designed with universal mounting locations and passage openings that can accommodate different weighing cell orientations (horizontal and vertical). The housing includes opposite substantially planar and parallel main surfaces with circumference surfaces that allow the same base unit to function in multiple configurations: counter scale, compact scale, and suspension scale, eliminating the need for separate base units for each configuration type.
2Device complexity
If a single base unit is used for all scale configurations, then logistics and inventory management are simplified, but the base unit must accommodate multiple weighing cell orientations and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit housing is segmented with distinct mounting locations and passage openings positioned to accommodate different weighing cell orientations. The housing structure includes first and second opposite substantially planar and parallel main surfaces with circumference surfaces that are substantially perpendicular to the main surfaces, creating modular mounting zones for different configuration requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with flexible mounting capabilities that allow the weighing cell to be oriented in different directions (horizontal or vertical) within the same base unit. The passage openings and mounting locations are positioned to enable dynamic reconfiguration of the weighing cell orientation based on the specific scale configuration needed, without requiring different base unit designs.
Data Source
AI summary
A weighing scale (30a, 30b, 40, 50) is designed for use in a first and a second configuration. In the first configuration, a base unit (1) has a main plane disposed horizontally with a load receiver (32, 42, 52) extending parallel thereto. A weighing cell (2) is mounted under the load receiver in the base unit and measures a weighing force acting perpendicular to the main plane. In the second configuration, the main plane is disposed vertically, with the load receiver hanging below the base unit as a suspended weighing pan, with the weighing cell mounted in the base unit to measure a vertical weighting force that is parallel to the main plane of the base unit.