Weight Measuring Apparatus Calibration via Perpendicular Load Application

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing weight measuring apparatuses with multiple load sensors face challenges in accurately calibrating each sensor due to load dispersion, making it difficult to recognize the balance state of objects and achieve precise measurement results.

Innovation Solution

A weight applying unit is introduced that supports the load platform in a horizontal position, applying predetermined loads perpendicularly to each load sensor section, ensuring accurate load distribution and calibration, with an optional deflection generating portion to simulate actual usage conditions, using an elastic material like ester polyurethane to prevent damage and enhance calibration accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If weights are placed on the load platform at four corners for calibration, then calibration can be performed on each load sensor, but the load disperses in multiple directions making accurate calibration difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration accuracyVSAvoidload application control
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the calibration process into separate operations for each load sensor. Instead of placing weights on the load platform which causes load dispersion, the invention applies loads directly to each load sensor individually through a support section, ensuring that each sensor receives the full intended load without dispersion to other sensors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces a support section as an intermediary mechanism between the calibration weights and the load sensors. This support section directly transmits loads to each load sensor without involving the load platform, thereby eliminating the load dispersion problem that occurs when weights are placed on the platform.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If loads are applied perpendicular to each load sensor section, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity increases due to the weight applying unit

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload detection accuracyVSAvoidcalibration apparatus structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support section serves multiple functions: it supports the load platform in a horizontal position, applies loads directly to each load sensor section, and can generate deflection to simulate actual usage conditions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate calibration apparatuses for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The weight applying unit is integrated into the weight measuring apparatus itself, allowing the apparatus to perform its own calibration without requiring external calibration equipment. The support section and weight applying section work together to provide self-calibration capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If the load platform is supported horizontally, then load distribution to each sensor is accurate, but the apparatus requires additional support structure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload distribution accuracyVSAvoidsupport structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention combines the support function and the load application function into a single integrated support section. This support section both maintains the load platform in a horizontal position and applies loads directly to the load sensor sections, eliminating the need for separate support structures and calibration equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 method allows for precise calibration of each load sensor, improving measurement accuracy and enabling better recognition of balance states, reducing measurement errors and enhancing usability in applications like game apparatus input devices.

Implementation Method 1

the deflection generating portion is an elastic body having a shape simulating an area in which the measurement target object contacts the load platform

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2327968B1Weight measuring apparatus for use as an input device of a game apparatus
Publication Date: 2023.11.22 NINTENDO CO LTD
  • EP2327968B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2327968B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3H
  • EP2327968B1 patent drawingFigure 4A~4D

AI summary

A weight measuring apparatus, in which a load platform is supported by a plurality of load sensor sections and the weight of a measurement target object placed on the load platform is measured based on a load value detected by each of the plurality of load sensor sections, is supported by a support section. Thereafter, the weight applying section applies a predetermined load to each of the plurality of load sensor sections included in the supported weight measuring apparatus.