Turntable Load Cell Embedding for Pallet Weighing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Open table pallet wrapping machines face challenges in weighing pallets due to the proximity of the turntable to the ground, which restricts the placement of load cells, and existing solutions require additional structural modifications like ramps or holes, making it difficult to accurately measure pallet weight without interfering with the machine's operation.
Innovation Solution
Integrating load cells into the thickness of the turntable and using sliding contacts for data transfer through a slip ring to enable accurate weighing without the need for external modifications, allowing the pallet to be weighed without raising the entire machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If load cells are placed below the turntable to enable weighing, then the machine height increases due to the thickness of the load cells, but this requires additional structural modifications such as ramps or holes
Solution Approach 1:
The load cells are integrated into the thickness of the turntable itself, utilizing the vertical dimension of the turntable structure to accommodate the weighing mechanism. This eliminates the need for additional space below the machine and avoids structural modifications like ramps or holes in the floor.
Solution Approach 2:
The weighing function is merged with the turntable structure by embedding the load cells directly into the turntable's thickness. The turntable serves dual purposes: supporting the pallet for wrapping and measuring its weight, thereby eliminating separate weighing infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If the turntable is positioned close to the ground to allow pallet truck access in open table machines, then the space below the machine is insufficient to place load cells, but weighing capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing load cells in the horizontal space below the turntable, the solution utilizes the vertical thickness of the turntable itself. This allows the load cells to be positioned within the turntable structure rather than requiring clearance underneath, maintaining both low turntable positioning and weighing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The load cells are positioned locally within the turntable structure at specific points where they can effectively measure weight without interfering with the overall low-profile design. This localized integration allows weighing functionality without requiring the entire machine to be raised.
3Measurement precision
If load cells are positioned below the pallet and move with the table, then weighing data can be collected, but the data transfer from the moving turntable becomes unsolved
Solution Approach 1:
A slip ring is introduced as an intermediary device between the moving turntable and the stationary data collection system. The slip ring enables continuous rotational data transfer, allowing the load cell measurements from the rotating turntable to be transmitted to the control system without interruption or loss of information.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical data transfer problem is solved by replacing traditional mechanical connections with electrical contacts through the slip ring. This allows data to be transmitted through the rotating interface without the wear and disconnection issues of purely mechanical systems.
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
Enables accurate pallet weighing in open table machines without the need for additional structural modifications, such as ramps or holes, by embedding load cells within the turntable and using a slip ring for data transfer, ensuring reliable weight measurement without disrupting the machine's operation.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of load cells 2 fixed to the open turntable 4
Implementation Method 2
the data detected are transferred by means of sliding contacts
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 1c
AI summary
A weighing device for open table pallet wrapping machines comprises a fixed frame (7), an open turntable (4), a floating table (1), superposable on the open turntable (4) and vertically movable relative to it, a plurality of load cells (2) fixed to the open turntable (4), and rigid constraining means (3) which are interposed between the floating table (1) and the load cells (2) without interfering with the turntable (4), the turntable (4) being equipped with through holes (41).