Abstract: A weight scale having an operational weighing range, comprising an overall response characteristic having at least first, second and third discrete stages over the operational weighing range. The first, second and third stages are defined by first, second and third predetermined response characteristics, respectively. The weight scale further comprises first, second and third scale arrangements or mechanisms which establish the first, second and third response characteristics, respectively, of the three stages.

Abstract: A weighing scale detects and indicates changes in a small weight that is embedded within a much larger residual weight. The scale device has a base and a top weighing pan above it, with a linkage supported between the base and the top pan. A counterbalance weight lever is supported on a pivot member, and has one end connected to the linkage, and a counterbalance weight on the other end. An adjustable tensioning spring provides a balancing force for the counterbalance weight lever within the weight range of the critical weight. A potentiometer of other detecting device can provide an electrical signal to an alarm device to warn the consumer that the weight of a consumable quantity has dropped into the critical weight range.