Self-leveling Scale With Adjustable Pegs for Uneven Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Weighing scales inaccurately determine weight when positioned on uneven or soft surfaces due to non-coplanar and non-level support surfaces causing angled contact between the pegs and the floor, leading to incorrect weight measurements.
Innovation Solution
A weighing scale design featuring adjustable pegs that can move from a perpendicular to a non-perpendicular position, allowing alignment with non-parallel support surfaces, coupled with a compliant member for angular movement, ensuring consistent force transmission to the sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fixed perpendicular pegs are used, then the scale structure is simple, but weight measurement accuracy deteriorates on uneven surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The pegs are designed to be adjustable rather than fixed, allowing them to change their orientation dynamically. Each peg can be independently positioned to align with the actual support surface, transforming the static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to uneven conditions while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The orientation parameter of the pegs is made variable. By adjusting the angle and position of each peg relative to the platform, the system can compensate for surface irregularities. This parameter change allows the pegs to maintain proper alignment with non-coplanar support surfaces, resolving the accuracy issue without requiring complex additional mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If adjustable pegs are used to align with uneven surfaces, then weight measurement accuracy is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented and distributed across individual pegs rather than requiring a centralized complex system. Each peg can be adjusted independently through simple mechanical means, dividing the complexity into manageable, localized components that are easier to implement and maintain.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable peg design serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables surface alignment, and ensures accurate force transmission to the sensor. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity while achieving the goal of maintaining measurement accuracy on uneven surfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A weighing scale for measuring the weight of an object is disclosed. The weighing scale includes a base portion, a platform extending along a plane above the base portion to support the object, and at least one peg extending below the platform along an axis that is adjustable from a first position perpendicular to the plane to a second position not perpendicular to the plane.