Weighing Scale Parameterization Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scales with weighing belts require manual recalibration by a calibration official for each new product type or increased belt speed, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors in maintaining specified error tolerances.
Innovation Solution
A method that automatically verifies whether weight values determined using control parameters and filter functions are within predetermined tolerances, allowing for secure storage and activation of parameter data sets without manual intervention, ensuring reliable operation without the need for a calibration official.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual recalibration by a calibration official is performed for each new product type, then measurement precision is maintained, but productivity decreases due to repeated calibration interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary automatic calibration and verification before actual weighing operations begin. Control parameters and filter functions are pre-determined and stored in a database, so when a new product type is introduced, the system can quickly retrieve and apply pre-validated parameters without requiring manual recalibration, thus maintaining precision while improving productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The scale system performs self-calibration and self-verification using automated processes. The control unit automatically determines control parameters, applies filter functions to weight signals, and verifies results against stored reference values without requiring external calibration officials, thereby eliminating calibration interruptions and maintaining high throughput
2Adaptability or versatility
If calibration parameters are manually adjusted for each product type, then adaptability is improved, but reliability decreases due to potential human error and manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where weight measurements are continuously compared against reference values stored in the database. The control unit automatically adjusts control parameters and filter functions based on this feedback, and only accepts adjustments that pass verification against predetermined tolerance criteria, preventing human error and manipulation while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages adaptability through controlled parameter changes. Instead of manual adjustment, the control unit automatically modifies control parameters and filter function parameters based on product type identification, with all changes subject to automated verification. This ensures reliability by preventing unauthorized or erroneous changes while maintaining flexibility for different product types
3Productivity
If automatic verification is implemented without calibration official oversight, then productivity increases, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary automated calibration and verification before actual weighing operations. Control parameters and filter functions are pre-determined and stored in a secure database with reference values. This preliminary action ensures that the automated system is properly configured before use, maintaining precision while enabling high-speed operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of manual calibration by calibration officials with an automated electronic verification system. The control unit automatically determines control parameters, applies filter functions, and verifies results against stored reference values using electronic processes, thereby maintaining precision through systematic verification while achieving high productivity through automation
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a method of parameterizing weighing scales which have a weighing band (1) for weighing products in a conveying process in which, after the input of product-specific data, a teaching process and thereafter a verification process takes place. The invention further relates to a method for operating such a parameterized weighing scale.