Abstract: A weigh scale is disclosed for facilitating the weighing of obese users, handicapped users, elderly users, and others who have difficulty supporting themselves by giving a user the option of standing or sitting while being weighed. The weigh scale broadly comprises a platform, having at least one load sensor coupled thereto, large enough to allow a user to comfortably step onto it and position himself or herself to be weighed, an upright support structure secured to the platform so that the user may steady himself or herself while being weighed, a fold-away seat secured to the support structure so that the user may sit while being weighed, and a display for displaying the weight measured.

Abstract: The apparatus includes two somewhat convex shoes clampable along the adjacent sides of a pair of rails for engagement by the peripheries of wheel flanges so that the wheels are raised just clear of the rails, a load-sensing device at the highest portion of each shoe, and load-indicating means connected to the devices. The apparatus is sectional, the shoes being urged apart into rigidly clamped positions by two struts separable from the shoes to facilitate portability. Two spaced-apart support members are secured to each shoe to embrace its outer and lower faces, each support member being vertically adjustable relative to the shoe to suit different heights of rails. The shoes have replaceable wear-strips.

Abstract: A balance of precision is provided that enables reduction of the number of auxiliary free weights required to measure the weights of objects over a selected weight range. The balance utilizes on the scale arm of the balance auxiliary free weights in conjunction with a weight that slides along the scale arm. The weight that slides along the scale arm is shaped and dimensioned to fit around an auxiliary free weight positioned on the scale arm.

Abstract: A portable weighing system for a bed comprising a pair of scales placed under the legs or support members of a bed and a weight data collector unit. The scales are positioned directly below the ends of a bed and resting on the floor, and the legs or support members of the bed are then placed on the scales. Each scale is comprised of a beam shaped load cell, support bar, and support bar extensions. The load cell is shaped such that a section of the load cell rests on a horizontally disposed floor engaging base and the ends of the load cell are elevated above the base such that the ends do not rest on the base. The support bar is positioned above said load cell and attached to said load cell by a pair of threaded fasteners. The two support bar extensions are adjustably attached to each end of the support bar such that the width of said scale can be readily adjusted to accommodate beds of varying widths.

Abstract: The monitoring device incorporates transducing devices for converting the desired measured parameters into electrical signals capable of being processed by a local computer or microprocessor system. The device interacts with the ambulatory patient and then, via a modem or other electronic communication device, transmits the measured parameters to a computer located at a remote site. At the remote location the various indicia of the ambulatory patient's condition are monitored and analyzed by the medical professional caregiver. To provide the ambulatory patient with an added level of convenience and ease of use, such monitoring device is contained in a single integrated package.

Abstract: A weigh scale is disclosed for facilitating the weighing of obese users, handicapped users, elderly users, and others who have difficulty supporting themselves by giving a user the option of standing or sitting while being weighed. The weigh scale broadly comprises a platform, having at least one load sensor coupled thereto, large enough to allow a user to comfortably step onto it and position himself or herself to be weighed, an upright support structure secured to the platform so that the user may steady himself or herself while being weighed, a fold-away seat secured to the support structure so that the user may sit while being weighed, and a display for displaying the weight measured.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bed scale with a plurality of measuring feet which each support one leg of the bed and are provided with a force transducer which delivers a signal representing a weight force acting on the measuring foot and furthermore with an evaluation device which is connected to the transmission devices in the measuring feet for receiving the signal in order to deliver a result dependent on the weight force bearing thereon.

Abstract: A modular portable platform scale system includes at least one portable scale platform, and more preferably two side-by-side platforms, detachably connected to and vertically supported by a pair of movable forward and rear ramps. A coupling can be used to connect and support the scale platforms in an end-for-end arrangement to construct longer scales.

Abstract: A system and method for measuring the weight of patients in a wheelchair are disclosed, including two portable weight measurement devices, wherein the devices measure the weight imposed on two wheels of a four wheel wheelchair, and a receiver that accepts weight measurement data from the portable weight measurement devices. The weight data exchanged between the two portable weight measurement devices and/or with the receiver may be transported over wireless connections.

Abstract: The invention comprises a weighing scale, comprising a weight-receiving platform and a display device, which is angularly adjustable with respect to the plane of the platform, whereby to provide an optimum viewing angle.

Abstract: A beam scale for measurement of body weight and height according to the present invention includes a frame and a weighing mechanism. The frame includes a base assembly, a pillar assembly, and a horn assembly. The weighing mechanism is housed within the frame and includes a beam, weights, and a lever assembly. The horn assembly may include a transparent holding bracket having a level indicator. The scale may include a height measurement assembly having a height rod, a sheath supported by the horn assembly and the pillar assembly, a measuring arm, and a transparent height-measuring window having a line indicator. The frame may include a quick assembly mechanism to secure the pillar assembly to the base assembly during final assembly, quiet wheels for transport, and/or handle bars to support the user. Much of the frame may be made of pigmented thermoplastic or thermoset materials to reduce manufacturing costs and scale weight.

Abstract: An integrated element scale is provided that can replace an existing support structure within a piece of equipment to achieve a piece of equipment with the integrated scale. The integrated element scale may contain one or more load cells and be configured to replace a standard component used in the assembly of certain types of equipment. The integrated element may include a mechanism to align the load portion and support portion of the element with the load cell or load cells in between them. The integrated element may further include a mechanism for protecting the load cells from damage due to overload or under load as well as side impacts. When higher accuracy is required, the integrated element further may include a mechanism for decoupling the loads within each element from other load cells within the same element or other elements so that horizontal loading between the deflecting load cells does not occur.

Abstract: A balance (1) has a weighing compartment (4) that borders on a stationary part (8, 9) of the balance and is otherwise enclosed by at least one side wall panel (5, 6), a front wall panel (7), and a top cover panel (12). At least one of the side wall and top cover panels is slidable by means of a guiding device (17, 120) to open and close the weighing compartment (4). A holder arrangement (15, 17c, 58, 125) for the at least one slidable panel (5, 6, 12) is integrated in the guiding device (17, 120), and a holder arrangement for a non-slidable panel is integrated in the stationary part (8). The holder arrangements (15, 19, 17c, 58, 125) releasably connect the panels (5, 6, 7, 12) to the balance by means of form-locking closure devices, so that each panel (5, 6, 7, 12) can be attached to the balance as well as released for removal from the balance by applying a force to the panel (5, 6, 7, 12) and/or the holder arrangement (15, 19, 17c, 58, 125).

Abstract: A beam scale for measurement of body weight and height according to the present invention includes a frame and a weighing mechanism. The frame includes a base assembly, a pillar assembly, and a horn assembly. The weighing mechanism is housed within the frame and includes a beam, weights, and a lever assembly. The horn assembly may include a transparent holding bracket having a level indicator. The scale may include a height measurement assembly having a height rod, a sheath supported by the horn assembly and the pillar assembly, a measuring arm, and a transparent height-measuring window having a line indicator. The frame may include a quick assembly mechanism to secure the pillar assembly to the base assembly during final assembly, quiet wheels for transport, and/or handle bars to support the user. Much of the frame may be made of pigmented thermoplastic or thermoset materials to reduce manufacturing costs and scale weight.

Abstract: A balance (1) has a balance housing (21) and an operator panel (4). The operator panel (4) cooperates with the balance housing (21) and is connected, or connectable, to the latter in such a manner that the operator panel (4) can be folded up from a working position into a rest position (4′) by rotation about a pivot axis (A) that runs essentially parallel to the balance housing (21). The mechanical connection is made through a pivoting arrangement which allows the operator panel (4) to rest firmly on a supporting surface, independent of the level adjustment of the balance housing (21). Furthermore, the operator panel (4) is configured to be completely detachable from the balance housing (21). Electrical signals are transmitted either through a cable or by a wireless mode of communication.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided that includes a support body having a scale, a suspending member that suspends an article to be weighed by the scale, a display unit that displays the measured weight of the article, a retractable and extendable handle, a tape measure, and a temperature probe. The apparatus may be made of luminescent material.

Abstract: A balance (1) has a weighing compartment (3) and a balance housing (4), which contains a weighing cell (15) and forms a rear wall (13) and a floor (8) for the weighing compartment (3). A weighing-load carrier (2) is arranged on a cantilever arm (30) of the weighing cell (15). The rear wall (13) of the weighing compartment is equipped with a stationary holder system (21) that allows a variety of weighing-compartment accessories to be releasably installed at different levels above the floor (8) of the weighing compartment.

Abstract: A portable scale is provided that includes a fulcrum, a balance beam pivotally mounted on the fulcrum, the balance beam supporting a load pan on one end and including an elongated portion having a measurement strip extending along the elongated portion of the balance beam. The portable scale includes a dynamic weight movable along the elongated portion of the balance beam. The dynamic weight includes a display unit on the elongated portion of the balance beam for detecting the location of the dynamic weight along the measurement strip, for electrically converting the location to a weight measurement, and for displaying the weight measurement. The portable scale may include luminescent material.

Abstract: Disclosed is an improvement in a living body variable measuring device comprising a weight scale-like body having electrodes and a weight sensor equipped therewith, and a box-like display device. The electrodes are used in measuring the bioelectrical impedance appearing between both feet. The weight scale-like body has a storage section so sized and shaped as to accommodate the box-like display device.

Abstract: A mechanism which can sense the weight of food as well as perhaps time in order to provide auditory cues to a person who is eating. The cues are calculated to modify eating behavior so that it better conforms to a pre-decided ideal. This would be accomplished through classical conditioning by reward and punishment in that the mechanism would chide the user for engaging in undesirable behaviors such as eating too much. It would encourage the user who was engaging in ideal behavior such as eating enough without eating too much. It could instruct the user in techniques useful in achieving behavior patterns closer to the ideal. The mechanism can also use movement of itself or of the food either alone or in combination with the auditory cues to reinforce the training it provides in appropriate eating habits.

Abstract: A scale with sideways ramp (10) having a bottom conveyor (12A) which has a bottom conveyor belt (12AA) rotatably mounted on at least one bottom conveyor bottom spindle (12AB) and on at least one bottom conveyor top spindle (12AC). The bottom conveyor (12A) further has a bottom conveyor left support (12ADA) and a bottom conveyor right support (12ADB) each securely connected at a top end thereto. A bottom end of each of the bottom conveyor left support (12ADA) and the bottom conveyor right support (12ADB) are connected to opposite sides of a bottom conveyor (16). A top conveyor (12B) which has a top conveyor belt (12BA) rotatably mounted on at least one top conveyor bottom spindle (12BB) and on at least one top conveyor top spindle (12BC). The at least one top conveyor bottom spindle (12BB) is rotatably connected to the bottom conveyor top spindle (12AC) by a second motor connector (14B).

Abstract: A balance has a balance housing (21), an operator console (4), and a pivot arrangement (17, 18, 22) between the balance housing and the operator console. The pivot arrangement works as a hinge, so that the operator console can be tilted about a transverse horizontal axis (A) that runs parallel to the balance housing. From a normal working position, i.e., projecting forward from the balance housing, the operator console can be folded upward into a rest position. The pivot arrangement has a certain amount of loose play in at least one radial direction. The operator console has a tilt-adjustable part (20) and a tilt-angle adjusting device (26, 27, 28, 29) with a secondary transverse tilt axis (B) located in an anterior portion of the operator console. A locking device (30b, 33) serves to secure the tilt-adjustable part in one of at least two selectable tilt-angle positions.

Abstract: A lightweight, portable scale, including a balance beam pivotally positioned on a fulcrum, contained in a tear-drop shaped carrying case. The portable scale has a load pan on one end of the balance beam and a graduated scale, configured to accommodate sliding weight members, extending toward the opposite end of the balance beam. The fulcrum is positioned between the load pan and the graduated scale. To establish equilibrium, the balance beam includes a stationary counter-weight attached on the load pan side of the fulcrum, which balances the empty load pan against the sliding weight members located at a zero position on the graduated scale. The carrying case has a top portion hingedly attached to a bottom portion, which functions as the base of the portable scale and has sidewalls shorter than the fulcrum, preventing interference by the side walls during the weighing process.

Abstract: There is provided a conveyor capable of carrying out attachment and detachment of a portion of carrying an article easily and safely by a simple constitution in cleaning or the like and preventing parts from falling in attaching and detaching thereof. A support unit is provided with a carry unit and a motor unit respectively attachably and detachably. The carry unit is attachable to and detachable from the support unit in an upward direction. An output shaft of the motor unit can be connected to and detached from a drive roller of the carry unit by first and second connecting pieces. When a fixed state of the motor unit is released by releasing clamps, connection between the connecting peices is released and a state of fixing the carry unit to the support unit is released by releasing clamps, so that the carry unit can be removed in the upward direction.

Abstract: A practical and accurate body fat scale which utilizes handheld body fat sensors connected to the scale base to aid in determining body fat content. The handheld sensors detect the higher concentrations of fat located in the upper body, as compared to the lower extremities, and therefore provides an accurate and meaningful assessment of body fat content.

Abstract: A winged scale for measurement of body weight and determination of body fat content includes a scale structure, two wings movably attached to the scale structure by a positioning mechanism, a weighing device, an impedance measuring device, an input device, a data processing device, and a data output device. The two wings comprise right and left wings respectively having right and left electrodes to electrically contact a user's barefoot soles, wherein the right and left electrodes are spread apart as the wings move to an open position. The impedance measuring device measures an electrical impedance of the user through the soles contacting the electrodes. The input device permits entry of the user's personal physical data. The data processing device determines the user's body fat content, based on measured impedance, measured weight, and entered personal data. The data output device may output visually and/or audibly the measured and determined data.

Abstract: A space saving folding scale includes a frame, a measurement device, an opening mechanism and a display. The frame includes a base, lateral supports attached to the base, and a horizontal support attached to the lateral supports. The horizontal support includes a handle. The measurement device includes a weighing mechanism and a case housing the weighing mechanism. The opening mechanism is attached to the case and the frame so as to permit the measurement device to alternate between vertical and horizontal positions. The display is coupled to the measurement device and located at any easily visible location on the scale when the measurement device is ready for use in the horizontal position, such as on the horizontal support, the handle, or a top surface of the weighing mechanism. The display may be digital or analog.

Abstract: A mouse pad is attached to the weighing platform of a scale. The scale electronics are connected to a personal computer through a universal serial bus cable (USB) which also provides power to the scale. The scale may have an integrated, or detached, ergonomically designed wrist-rest with a wrist-rest pad that is positioned to be at the same height above the weighing platform as the mouse pad.

Abstract: A ground-conforming portable truck scale which may be positioned on uneven ground for weighing a truck comprising a pair of longitudinally extending side truss members having a center cross-beam pivotally secured thereto and extending therebetween, a plurality of cross-beams loosely connected to the side truss member and extending therebetween, a front ramp pivotally secured to the forward ends of the side frame members, and a rear ramp pivotally secured to the rearward ends of the side truss members. Weigh cells are provided between the ends of the side truss members and the front and rear ramps.

Abstract: A collapsible weighing scale that reduces to the smallest possible size for maximum portability and convenience includes a platform having a plurality of interconnected support segments and a supporting structure connected to the platform. In one embodiment, a thin top platform is made from a plurality of connected segments and supported by two beams. These beams support the segments, transfer the load to the ground, and incorporate sensors to measure the weight. The platform segments collapse into a more compact shape while the support beams fold into place parallel to the segments, resulting in a significant reduction in the overall volume taken up by the fully deployed unit. In another embodiment, the platform and the support segments can be expanded in a fan-like arrangement. In still another embodiment, the several platform segments can unfold from a compact configuration and form the support structure in doing so.

Abstract: A mounting assembly for use in combination with a load cell adapted to measure the weight of an object is disclosed. The mounting assembly has a fixed portion (10) that includes a base and a support, and a moveable platform (20) adapted to be supported by the support when in its installation (non-working) position. The platform (20) is further adapted to be raised from its non-working position to a working position by means of a lever, the platform being supported by the load cell in this working position. In a preferred embodiment, a load cell is used as the lever to raise the platform onto the load cell as it is secured to the mounting assembly.

Abstract: The present invention is a wheelchair scale adapter comprising a substantially planar platform defining a cut out near a center and side walls and a rear wall respectively projecting upwardly therefrom, and having legs adjustably attached thereto for providing added stability, particularly when loading and unloading a wheelchair from the platform; an access ramp hingedly connected to the front of the platform for allowing a wheelchair-bound person to be wheeled onto the platform; a typical bathroom scale, etc., attached to the lower surface of the platform; the invention being adapted for weighing a wheelchair and an occupant which has been wheeled onto the platform. The invention also comprises a ramp mounted on the platform, and associated linkage, for causing the access ramp to rotate upwardly out of contact with a surface on which the invention rests, so as to give a more accurate reading of the weight of a person and wheelchair on the platform.

Abstract: A hanger device for suspending, dressing and weighing game comprises a main structure having an integrated weight scale for determining a total and a dressed game weight. Two main arms have a proximal end and a distal end. Each of the two main arms are provided with a lift hook at the distal end and are interconnected to the main structure at the proximal end such that the two main arms can slide along the main structure in accordance with a weight on the weight scale. Two lower arms interconnect the two main arms to a bottom portion of the main structure. A locking pin is adapted to prevent weight arranged on the hanger device from being placed on a weight spring. Arm stops are arranged at a position along two main arms such that when the two main arms are widened to a fully opened position, the two lower arms abut against the arm stops to limit an opening width of the two main arms.

Abstract: A portable scale for weighing drums, cylinders and other containers is describe. The scale is lightweight and easily transportable and due to the use of three load cells instead of the traditional four, it is highly accurate even on uneven floor surfaces. The weighing platform is low to the ground and has a loading ramp making placement of objects to be weighed easier.

Abstract: A portable platform-scale weighing system comprises a floor dolly and lift mechanism that allow a heavy low-profile platform scale to be used practically anywhere truck cargoes need to be weighed. The low-profile platform scale includes a shear-beam load cell on each of four corners that are lifted off the ground by the lift mechanism whenever the dolly is being rolled to a new job. The weighing system puts weight on each of the shear-beam load cells only when the lift system has lowered the low-profile platform scale onto a protective outrigger runner on each side and such runners are resting on the ground. Such runners have turned up steel wings that prevent side impacts to the shear-beam load cells. Various guides and pins keep the low-profile platform scale centered over the floor dolly and lift mechanism so that when it is lowered it will drop properly on the two outrigger runners and minimize contact between the lift mechanism and dolly during the weight mode.

Abstract: A hand-held electronic scale for weighing an object is provided. The scale includes display assembly pivotally connected to a handle assembly for viewing the weight of an object at an optimum viewing angle relative to the eyes of the individual. The object to be weighed being supported on a support member having a hook shaped first end adapted to transfer the force of the object supported thereon to a force sensor contained within the handle assembly and transmitting a value to a micro-controller for generating an alphanumeric readout representing the weight of the object for viewing on an electronic display contained within a display assembly.

Abstract: A portable weighing device comprising two laterally displaced, electrically connected and rigidly aligned weighing modules is disclosed that permits convenient weighing of the mobility-disabled while occupying a conventional manually-operated wheelchair supported by two front caster wheels and two rear main wheels. The weighing platforms are so contoured that the wheelchair wheels can roll smoothly onto and off of the weighing platforms without disturbing the weighing device. The weighing device fully guides the operator through the sequence of steps required to weight the occupant of a wheelchair.

Abstract: A fish weighing scale attachment for attachment to a fishing rod for weighing a fish still hooked on the fishing line. The fish weighing scale attachment includes a housing with a channel in a bottom face of the housing. A mounting block is slidably inserted into the channel of the housing. The mounting block has a pair of outwardly extending flexible straps which are coupled to one another. A weighing scale is provided in the housing. The weighing scale has a pivoting weighing arm having a spaced apart pair of upwardly extending fingers. The weighing scale also has a visual display provided on the top face of the housing.

Abstract: A modular scale adapted to receive a rigid platform for supporting a weight has a frame having a base and a pair of legs extending from the base. The scale has a plurality of support assemblies adapted to be carried by the frame. Each support has at least one sensor wherein each sensor is adapted to provide a reference value and an output relative to a portion of the weight received. A display shows a numerical value corresponding to the composite sensor value. In a preferred embodiment the frame is generally "U"-shape. The frame defines a central open area between the legs, wherein legs from other modular scales can be placed in the central open area of the modular scale for shipping. Each of the legs has a foot projecting towards each other, and the support assemblies are carried by the feet and the base. The frame is made of a plastic and of a rib construction such that the frame is relatively light weight.

Abstract: A combination flight simulating mobile device and scale formed in appearance of a variety of different birds, or like flying creatures, that may be fabricated from steel sheet or like material, readily assembled, and balanced in such manner that when suspended, the weight of the wings (12 and 14) of the bird is used to counterbalance both the body (10) of the bird and the weight of a lightweight object (74), such as an envelope, and provide a measurement of the object's weight and a realistic replication of a creature in flight.

Abstract: A glove weighing apparatus includes a hand glove removably attachable to a person's hand which covers or has attached thereto a weighing device including a scale operatively attached to the weighing device. The scale is removably attached to a person's wrist or to the glove. The weighing device may be a pressure transducer, such as a piezoelectric crystal, which generates an electric signal responsive and analogous to the pressure applied thereto. The weighing device may also be a liquid filled container which applies a pressure to a diaphragm responsive to the weight placed on the weighing device. A weighing method includes attaching a weighing device to the palm side of a person's hand and attaching a hand glove over the person's hand and over the weighing device and then attaching a scale adjacent a person's hand and to the weighing device and placing material to be weighed in a person's hand and onto the attached weighing device to produce readings on the attached scale.

Abstract: Apparatus for weighing a person that is confined to a bed that includes a series of modular units for supporting a bed frame and sensors associated with each of the modular units that are capable of performing in combination a weighing function.

Abstract: A weighing scale includes a housing having a top opening defined by a top flange. A weighing module is mounted inside the housing for measuring weight. A scale platform is disposed inside the top opening and rests atop the weighing module by gravity. A proximity sensor is mounted inside the housing adjacent to the platform for detecting proximity thereof, and is joined in communication with the weighing module. An elongate lift bar is pivotally mounted atop the platform for movement between a stowed position flush with the platform and a deployed position spaced in part upwardly above the platform for extending size of the platform and for permitting manual lifting of the platform away from the proximity sensor and return adjacent thereto for resetting the weighing module.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for weighing a vehicle on a ground support surface comprising a scale platform adapted to support the vehicle and a scale positioned on the scale platform operably engagable with the vehicle to monitor the weight of the vehicle. The platform having a lower side defining a ground contact surface engagable with the ground support surface. The ground contact surface having an area sufficient to support the platform and the vehicle on the ground support surface so as to prevent the platform from sinking substantially into the ground support surface. The platform is rollingly supportable on a plurality of wheels.

Abstract: The first of the in-series hoppers of the system is carried by a scale to determine the weight of the product batch; a transfer hopper being next in line and finally a holding hopper. A computer senses the batch weight and assigns the weight in sequence first to the transfer hopper, and then to the holding hopper. Both the transfer and holding hoppers participate in each computerized weighing/selection cycle. The forming/weighing hopper includes a shell and double-acting clam shell doors; the upper curved portion of each door extending into the hopper when the doors are open, thereby intercepting any late product in flight and initiating formation of the next batch. The transfer and holding hoppers also incorporate pairs of clam shell type doors. The associated method, is characterized by forming and weighing the product in the first in-series hopper and then discharging the batch in sequence to the transfer and holding hoppers.

Abstract: A letter weighing device has a slidable fulcrum to indicate the exact weight of a letter or the like being weighed. The letter weighing device has an elongate member having upper and lower elongate surfaces, the upper elongate surface supporting two spaced apart and substantially parallel resilient ribs extending longitudinally along the elongate member so as to define a recess therebetween. Further, at least a portion of each rib extends in a direction generally toward the other rib. A fulcrum member is mounted upon the upper surface so as to be moveable along the length of the elongate member. The fulcrum member supports the elongate member from above. Additionally, a parallel pair of ribs define a recess therebetween in which additional items can be stored.

Abstract: An apparatus for hazardous waste disposal includes a container for holding a disposable flexible plastic bag without putting tear strain on the bag, and a weighing device for placement under the container so that the weight of the bag may be monitored as it is being filled with hazardous waste.

Abstract: Automated tracking devices for counting, sorting, weighing, and containing articles, such as sponges that contain fluids from patients undergoing surgery. Devices according to the present invention employ a suspended container for receiving and sorting the articles. The cumulative weight of the container contents is sensed accurately and registered reliably after an appropriate settling period via a load cell structure which is aimed at eliminating bending moments and non-vertical force components imposed by the container and its contents. Automatic sensing of the presence of the container allows continuous, rather than solely end-point, fluid monitoring during the surgical procedures and allows this monitoring to continue as successive containers are changed during an operation. Appropriate warnings occur after a predetermined number of articles have been introduced into the container, in order to indicate that a container change is due.

Abstract: A weighing scale having a weighing platform, and mechanisms for permitting the weighing platform to be pivoted upwardly from a lowered operational position to a raised non-operational position to reduce the required floor space therefor so that the weighing scale can be conveniently transported to another location for use, where the weighing platform is lowered to the operational position, or for storage thereof. Preferably, the weighing scale is provided with a stabilizing member to prevent the weighing scale from tipping over when the weighing platform is being raised or lowered, where the stabilizing member can also be raised and lowered between an operational position and a non-operational position. Preferably, fold-away ramps are provided on opposite sides of the weighing platform to provide easy access thereto.

Abstract: A top-loading precision balance with a draft protection device which includes several walls connected to each other at the edges thereof, and a cover which closes the opening defined at the top of the walls. The cover is fastened through a horizontally extending hinge to one of the walls. The hinge of the cover includes a spring which acts against the direction of movement for closing the cover. The spring mounted in the hinge is a torsion spring which is fixed at both ends thereof. The frame forming the bottom of the draft protection device has on its bottom side a groove into which lugs mounted on the balance housing engage when the draft protection device is placed on the balance housing. A spring is fastened at the groove of the frame under the front side of the draft protection device. The spring engages in a groove of one of the lugs.