Monolithic Weighing System Laser-Machined Diaphragm Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing monolithic weighing systems face challenges in achieving high precision and repeatability due to spatial constraints that prevent the monolithic attachment of position sensor pedestals, leading to assembly inaccuracies and temperature effects from threaded connections.
Innovation Solution
The integration of position sensor pedestals with pedestal apertures that allow for laser machining of the slotted diaphragm, enabling precise alignment and mounting of the position sensor while overcoming spatial constraints, and the use of base apertures to facilitate machining, ensuring accurate and repeatable assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pedestals for mounting the position sensor are attached separately using threaded connections, then the position sensor can be mounted on the base, but assembly inaccuracies and temperature effects occur that reduce measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously separate pedestal component with the base by integrating the pedestals directly into the monolithic base structure. This eliminates the threaded connections and separate attachment, thereby removing the source of assembly inaccuracies and temperature effects, and achieving both high measurement precision and reliable repeatability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure is given multiple functions: it serves both as the structural support and as the mounting platform for the position sensor through integrated pedestals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting components and their associated connection mechanisms that caused measurement errors.
2Manufacturing precision
If the slotted diaphragm is machined using conventional milling and drilling tools, then the target area can be created, but spatial constraints prevent monolithic attachment of position sensor pedestals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical milling and drilling tools with laser machining technology. The laser beam can precisely machine the slotted diaphragm in the thin-walled lever section through the pedestal aperture, overcoming the spatial constraints that prevented conventional tools from accessing the target area while maintaining monolithic manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the machining method from mechanical removal to thermal processing using laser. This parameter change in the manufacturing process enables the creation of the slotted diaphragm in locations that are inaccessible to conventional tools, while maintaining the integrity of the monolithic structure.
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
This approach enhances the resolution and repeatability of the weighing system by allowing precise laser machining of the slotted diaphragm, reducing assembly inaccuracies and temperature effects, and improving the sensitivity of the optical position sensor.
Implementation Method 1
The position sensor pedestal (38a, 38b) is provided with a pedestal aperture (40a, 40b) through which the slotted diaphragm (36) is laser-machined
Implementation Method 2
the light of the photo emitter transilluminates the slotted diaphragm on its way to the photo detector
Data Source
AI summary
A monolithic weighing system including a base (12), a load holder (26), which is articulated on the base (12) through a parallel link arrangement (16, 20), and a lever (28), which is articulated on the load holder (26) and which has an attachment point for a force compensating arrangement and a target area (32) for an optical position sensor (34). The target area (32) has a slotted diaphragm (36) in a thin walled lever section of the lever (28) in the deflection plane thereof. A position sensor pedestal (38a, b), which is integrally connected to the base (12), is arranged laterally adjacent to the target area (32). The position sensor pedestal has a pedestal aperture (40a, b), which extends perpendicularly to the deflection plane. The slotted diaphragm (36) of the target area (32) is laser-machined through the pedestal aperture (40a, b).