Shelf bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shelf systems with integrated weighing functionality do not accurately determine the location of item removal or addition due to the lack of consideration for the concrete implementation of load cells, leading to inaccuracies in weight measurement and location calculation.
Innovation Solution
A shelf bracket with an integrated weighing device, comprising a force application section, a joint section, and a force absorption section, featuring two horizontally parallel weighing plates connected mechanically in one piece, supported by a cantilever that protrudes from a vertically arranged shelf rail, with strain gauges forming a Wheatstone measuring bridge to accurately measure weight changes and determine the center of gravity coordinates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing shelf systems with integrated weighing functionality are used, then weighing capability is provided, but accuracy in determining location of item removal or addition deteriorates due to lack of consideration for concrete implementation of load cells
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf bracket is divided into distinct functional sections: force introduction section, joint section with weighing plates, and force absorption section. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally, with the joint section specifically designed to accurately measure weight changes through strain gauges while other sections handle structural loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The weighing plates in the joint section are designed with specific local properties - they are arranged horizontally and parallel to each other, and the strain gauges are positioned to measure only the vertical forces related to item weight. This local quality ensures that the measurement function is isolated from other structural functions, improving both measurement precision and reliability.
2Ease of manufacture
If a simple shelf bracket structure is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to accurately measure weight changes and determine center of gravity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The weighing device is integrated directly into the shelf bracket structure, merging the structural support function with the measurement function. The force introduction section, joint section, and force absorption section are combined into a single integrated component that can be manufactured as one piece, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy through the strategic placement of strain gauges on the weighing plates.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf bracket serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the shelf, acts as the mounting structure for the weighing device, and enables weight measurement and center of gravity determination. This multi-functionality is achieved through the integrated design where the same structural components also serve as the measurement platform.
3Measurement precision
If strain gauges are used to measure weight changes, then measurement precision is improved, but sensitivity to tolerances in manufacturing and assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated design allows the shelf bracket structure itself to define the mounting positions and orientations of the strain gauges. The manufacturing process of the bracket automatically creates the precise geometric relationships needed for accurate measurement, eliminating the need for separate precision alignment steps and reducing sensitivity to assembly tolerances.
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 solution enables precise determination of the center of gravity coordinates, allowing for accurate tracking of weight changes and location of item removal or addition on the shelf, reducing sensitivity to tolerances and improving inventory management.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one weighing device has a force application section (24), a joint section (22) and a force absorption section (20). The joint section (22) consists of two weighing plates (26, 28) that run horizontally and parallel to one another
Implementation Method 2
strain gauges forming a Wheatstone measuring bridge to accurately measure weight changes
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The present invention relates to a shelf bracket with at least one weighing device. The shelf bracket is suitable for mounting in a vertically arranged shelf rail. For this purpose, the shelf bracket includes an anchoring device. The shelf bracket further includes a cantilever for supporting a shelf shelf. When the shelf bracket is mounted in a shelf rail, the cantilever projects from the shelf rail in a substantially horizontal direction. In one embodiment, the cantilever is formed by a vertically arranged sheet metal part. In a Cartesian coordinate system, the extension of the cantilever in the horizontal plane defines a Y-direction, the vertical direction defines a Z-direction, and the direction perpendicular to the Y- and Z-directions defines an X-direction. The at least one weighing device has a force application section, a hinge section, and a force receiving section.The joint section consists of two horizontally and parallel rocker plates. The force-absorbing section and the force-introduction section consist at least partially of vertically oriented plates.