Weighing Module Design Space Delimitation for High Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weighing systems for uniform objects face challenges in accommodating a large number of weighing modules within a given surface area without compromising measurement resolution, often resulting in expensive, voluminous, and complicated arrangements due to limitations in the thickness of flexible joints and susceptibility to overloads.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a parallel-guiding mechanism with movable and stationary parts connected via force-transmitting rods, allowing for efficient use of space by delimiting the design space orthogonal to the load direction and using adjustable connections to minimize eccentric load errors, while maintaining a small restoring force that does not significantly impact measurement resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If weighing modules are arranged in a row or two-dimensional array, then the number of weighing modules per surface area is limited, but the system becomes voluminous and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional array arrangements to a three-dimensional configuration where weighing modules are stacked vertically. Multiple weighing modules are arranged in layers, with lower modules supporting upper modules. This vertical stacking enables a high number of weighing modules to be accommodated within a compact footprint, eliminating the need for voluminous horizontal expansions while maintaining system functionality.
2Quantity of substance
If the distance between weighing modules is reduced to increase density, then space is saved, but measurement resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the parallel-guiding mechanism into distinct modular components: a stationary part integrated with the lower weighing module housing, a movable part connected to the upper weighing module, and flexible joints as separate elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, enabling tight spacing between modules while maintaining the structural integrity and measurement precision of each individual weighing module through dedicated guiding mechanisms.
3Volume of moving object
If flexible joints are made thinner to reduce space, then compactness improves, but susceptibility to overloads increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable connections with overload protection mechanisms in the parallel-guiding system. These connections include yieldable elements and adjustment capabilities that allow the system to accommodate unexpected overloads without damaging the flexible joints or compromising measurement accuracy. The adjustable nature enables pre-setting of protection thresholds, cushioning the system against potential damage before overloads occur.
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 configuration enables a high-density arrangement of weighing modules without compromising measurement precision, allowing for efficient use of space and reducing the risk of damage from overloads, thus creating a more compact and cost-effective weighing system.
Implementation Method 1
a force-transmitting device which is arranged between the load receiver and the weighing cell and which transmits the force generated by a load on the load receiver to the weighing cell, reducing or magnifying the force depending on the load range
Implementation Method 2
the force-transmitting rod is constrained by a parallel-guiding mechanism for guided motion in a direction of the load
Implementation Method 3
the thin flexure joints or spring-like elastic guide members generate a moment of a magnitude that is in proportion to the angle of deflection of the parallel-guiding members
Data Source
AI summary
A device to weigh objects of like nature has at least a first weighing module and a second weighing module. Each weighing module includes a load receiver and a weighing cell connected to each other through a force-transmitting rod. Each weighing cell is arranged in a design space whose dimensions in a plane that extends orthogonal to the direction of the load is delimited by the design spaces of adjacent weighing cells.