Illuminated Patents (Class 177/177)
  • Patent number: 9651414
    Abstract: A filling device for a weighing device includes a loading device for the feeding of products, a transport area, which is supplied with products from the loading device, at least one sensor for capturing and forwarding of product occupation information on the transport area, and a control means. The at least one sensor is thereby formed to capture at least a partial area of the transport area and the control means is formed to divide the area captured by the at least one sensor virtually in a multiplicity of sectors. Further, a method for performing of a monitoring and capturing process of a filling of a filling device is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: MULTIPOND WÄGETECHNIK GMBH
    Inventors: Franz Hofer, Florian Hübel, Wolfram C. Zeck
  • Publication number: 20140326518
    Abstract: A POS-based checkout/scale system having (i) a bar code symbol reading subsystem for reading bar code symbols on products being purchased at a retail POS station, and (ii) a produce weigh scale having a weigh scale assembly for weighing one or more produce items on a weigh platter during produce weighing operations carried out at the time of checkout at said retail POS station. The system also includes an automatic produce weighing interference detection subsystem, supporting an IR-based light curtain about the weigh platter, automatically detects when any object is overhanging the weigh platter during produce weighing operations, and generates an alert signal when such conditions are automatically detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas Amundsen, Sean Philip Kearney, Shane Michael Edmonds, Ynjiun Paul Wang, Timothy Good, Michael Miraglia, Charles Joseph Cunningham, IV, Xiaoxun Zhu, Patrick Anthony Giordano
  • Patent number: 8536469
    Abstract: A body composition monitor of the present invention includes means for inputting a reference value of a body composition component, means for inputting a measurement value of the body composition component, body composition comparison means for comparing the reference value and the measurement value so as to determine a body composition component change amount of the measurement value relative to the reference value, display means provided with a plurality of stages for displaying one of the stages corresponding to the body composition component change amount, and stage determination means provided with a plurality of determination widths respectively corresponding to the plurality of stages for determining one of the stages corresponding to the body composition component change amount with using the plurality of determination widths, wherein the plurality of determination widths are not identical to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Tetsuya Sato, Yumi Kitamura, Shinya Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8536470
    Abstract: A body composition monitor of the present invention includes means for measuring a body composition, means for storing a measured body composition value, and body composition comparison means for comparing the measured body composition value and a stored body composition value, in which the body composition monitor further includes means for inputting a body weight value, means for storing an inputted body weight, body weight comparison means for comparing the inputted body weight and stored body weight, body composition change determination means for determining a change degree of the body composition value with using a comparison result of the body composition comparison means and a comparison result of the body weight comparison means, and display means for displaying a determination result determined by the body composition change determination means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Sato, Shinya Tanaka, Yumi Kitamura
  • Publication number: 20130112488
    Abstract: A weighing scales includes a step-on surface, on which a person to be weighed stands, and a plurality of artificial gemstones arranged beneath or in the step-on surface. At least some of the artificial gemstones are adapted for illumination from below so as to produce information, such as a weight indication, which is readable visually from above.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERÄTE GMBH
    Inventors: Lukas Mayerhofer, Hans Schäfer
  • Publication number: 20120111643
    Abstract: An apparatus for weighing a person has a platform, at least one weight sensor connected to the platform for producing an output corresponding to a weight applied to the platform, a display, and control means connected to the sensor and to the display for comparing the output with a stored target value, for calculating a difference between the output and stored value, and for displaying data on the display corresponding to a the calculated difference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventor: Ralf LINDNER
  • Publication number: 20120111645
    Abstract: An apparatus for weighing a person has an at least partially transparent platform, at least one weight sensor connected to the platform for producing an output corresponding to a weight applied to the platform, and a plurality of light sources for emitting respective beams of light. A controller is connected to the sensor and to the sources for controlling the beams. Respective light guides reflect the beams of light onto a lower face of the platform so as to be visible from above the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventor: Ralf LINDNER
  • Patent number: 8053686
    Abstract: A base for a scale tilts slightly when a wheel is rolled onto it, to facilitate rolling the wheel onto a central ovular or elliptical concave mat surface. Opposed handgrips forming grippable loops may be provided on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: InnoVision Devices LLC
    Inventor: Douglas R. Domel
  • Patent number: 7868743
    Abstract: An alarm that uses a floor situated apparatus so that when the alarm goes off, the user must place their feet on the apparatus for a predetermined period of time to deactivate the alarm. The alarm sequence optionally provides that the apparatus cover may be translucent and/or transparent with a plurality of illuminable elements thereunder providing an alarm visual display. Also provided is a remote control for actuating a projected display of time onto the wall. The apparatus is also a scale for displaying the user's weight. The weight requirement for deactivating the alarm can extend from placing the feet on the apparatus while still in bed or require the user to stand on the apparatus for said period of time. Further provided for is the removal of the alarm clock portion from the floor apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: Chester Brown
  • Patent number: 7563994
    Abstract: An electronic scale (1) with a display unit (9), at least one control button (11 . . . 14), a digital signal processing unit (5) and a digital interface (7) to a higher-level electronic data processing (EDP) system (15). The digital signal processing unit (5) has an activatable switch or program part for locking the scale. This switch or part releases the display of the weighing result only for as long as the higher-level EDP system (15) communicates with the scale (1) and locks the display at other times. The activation of the switch or part for the locking process is stored in a power-failure-proof memory (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Bertoldi, Klaus Fuelscher, Rainer Kirchhoff, Swen Weitemeier
  • Publication number: 20090071731
    Abstract: The invention relates to a bathroom scale for a person to be weighed to step on. Said scale has at least one handle to which the person to be weighed can hold on while stepping onto the scale and an electric and/or optical measuring sensor arranged on the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: Soehnie Professional GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Stephan Gerster
  • Patent number: 7279644
    Abstract: A series of products, such as bacon packages each having bacon slices carried by a card, are successively conveyed across an endless conveyor weighing scale to determine the weight of each product, and the products are then conveyed by an endless conveyor along a linear path through an inspection station. An elongated scrolling message display unit extends adjacent the linear path, and information characters corresponding to the weight of each product travel on the display unit in synchronism with the flow of the product on the conveyor to provide an inspection person with sufficient time to correct the weight of each off-weight product by adding or removing items from the product. A photosensor detects the leading edge of each product and cooperates to synchronize the location of weight information characters displayed on the display unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventor: Donald A. Kasel
  • Patent number: 7256358
    Abstract: An electronic scale comprising a display screen for digitally displaying the weight of an object, a processing device for controlling the scale and the display screen, wherein the display screen displays an indication of weight relative to overload.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Joshua D. Kesselman
  • Patent number: 7193163
    Abstract: The hand held scale of the present invention comprises a rectangular casing with a weighing platform, for supporting items to be weighed, a display screen, for displaying the weight of the objects and to view the animation sequences. There are a series of digital animations that are viewable on the display screen and each different animation sequence corresponds to a particular scale function or operation. The user is amused and entertained with animation when the scale is turned on, objects are weighed, the scale is turned off, reset as well as other functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Joshua D. Kesselman
  • Patent number: 7126065
    Abstract: A weighing scale having a display and processor for determining and identifying the optimal position coordinates for a load placed on the weighing scale includes a platform and a plurality of support assemblies, each containing a load cell for receiving the weight of the load. The display includes a meter or other graphical display that identifies position coordinates along with the determined numerical weight. Individual outputs from each of the plurality (e.g. 4) of load cells are received by a processor configured to compute x,y vector coordinates associated with the weight parameters for each load cell. The determined current or actual load position relative to an optimal position is calculated and displayed along with the weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Steven Petrucelli
  • Patent number: 7122750
    Abstract: A mechanical weighing scale having mechanical parts driving a pointer rotating around a fixed disc or dial having slots or holes formed therein. The mechanical pointer operates to provide an analog display of one's weight to the user. An optical sensor system is responsive to the mechanical motion of the mechanically-rotating pointer as it passes over each of the holes or slots for determining a number of counts associated with the mechanical motion of the rotating pointer and translating the counts to a corresponding weight value for display onto a digital display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Steven Petrucelli
  • Patent number: 7109881
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a floor display system comprising or associated with a weight measuring device. An output of the weight measuring device may be processed by electronic logic to display corresponding information on an electronic display device of the floor display system. The information may relate to the weight of an object on the floor display system, in particular, for example, the weight of a person standing on the floor display system. The floor display system may further be capable of displaying arbitrary content including graphical images and verbal information, where the content is changeable on demand. Embodiments of the present invention further relate to a floor display system with reflective properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Intellimats LLC
    Inventors: Ronald D. Blum, William Kokonaski, Dwight Duston
  • Patent number: 7075537
    Abstract: The invention concerns an apparatus for measuring a biological parameter of an individual comprising measuring means, means for storing and/or for computing values of said parameter connected to a display (3) for graphic representation of the measured parameter relative to a representation axis. The invention is characterized in that said display (3) is designed to adjust the measured parameter relative to a reference zone delimited on either side on said axis by a fixed mark combined with at least an adjacent digital indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Bénédicte Simond, Yves Patras
  • Patent number: 7026946
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for identifying and categorizing the weight and characteristics of the occupant currently occupying a vehicle seat. The method for identifying and categorizing the occupant or object involves measuring the deflection of the upper surface of the seat cushion at several points and therefore the weight distribution of the occupant. The system contains multiple weight sensors arrayed for detecting the distribution of the load causing the seat deflection. The system also includes a sensor to measure ambient temperature, preferably for temperature compensation due to the effects extreme temperatures may have on the compression properties of the seat cushion material and the weight sensors. A system processor interprets the data acquired by the sensors, and utilizes an algorithm and weight tables to simulate a neural network in providing an output a control signal indicative of the categorization of the occupant or object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventors: Darrel Saunders, Lynn Johner, Petr Musilek
  • Patent number: 6998541
    Abstract: A surgical sponge detection system includes a plurality of surgical sponges (2) having radio frequency identification tags (1) securely attached thereto and a non-optical hand-held reader (40) for detecting the sponges by detecting the tags (1). Also disclosed is a device (30) for automatically counting, weighing, and calculating blood loss contained within, soiled surgical sponges (2) which includes a cabinet with an opening (3) at the top through which sponges (2) are deposited, a reader (6) which scans each sponge (2) entered and determines sponge type from a tag (1) affixed to each sponge (2), and a disposable bag (8) into which the sponges (2) are deposited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: ClearCount Medical Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Sharon L. Morris, Dean E. Morris
  • Patent number: 6894232
    Abstract: The invention is a device and means that reduces the amount of overloading and under-loading of plastic grocery bags. A bag rack has a scale attached to its base with the scale connected to an indicator. The plastic bag rests on the scale which weighs the contents of the bag as they are being added. The indicator checks the weight of the contents of the bag. If the contents are under the targeted weight an indicator is lit, when the targeted weigh is reached another indicator is lit, and if a “not to exceed weight” is reached a warning indicator is lit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo
    Inventors: Dana D. Waggoner, Delbert J. Graf
  • Patent number: 6838624
    Abstract: An electronic weighing scale includes a body for use on a horizontal surface for a weighing operation, a display on the body for displaying a measured weight, and an electronic weighing circuit in the body for measuring the weight of a person standing on the body. The weighing circuit includes a zero-reset circuit for resetting the measurement to zero prior to a weighing operation. The body includes a zero-reset member incorporating an electrical switch operable by the zero-reset member to trigger the zero-reset circuit. The zero-reset member engages the surface, when the body is placed on the surface, for operating the switch to trigger the zero-reset circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: IDT Technology Limited
    Inventor: Raymond Chan
  • Publication number: 20040256163
    Abstract: The present invention is a scale to be mounted onto a load-bearing member of a vehicle, structure or other entity supporting a load to be measured. The invention uses optics to measure the flexure of the loaded structural member. The flexure is proportional to the weight of the load. Associated electronics amplify the optical output signals, feed back one to compensate for temperature variations, convert the other to digital to drive a readout device that displays the resultant weight figure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: Robert K. Thomson
  • Publication number: 20040238233
    Abstract: A mechanical weighing scale having mechanical parts driving a pointer rotating around a fixed disc or dial having slots or holes formed therein. The mechanical pointer operates to provide an analog display of one's weight to the user. An optical sensor system is responsive to the mechanical motion of the mechanically-rotating pointer as it passes over each of the holes or slots for determining a number of counts associated with the mechanical motion of the rotating pointer and translating the counts to a corresponding weight value for display onto a digital display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Steven Petrucelli
  • Publication number: 20040238234
    Abstract: A measurement device with a support plate (1) mounted on measurement cells, and with a display device for displaying a force action line (7) for a person standing on bearing surfaces (10, 10′) of the support plate (1), permits monitoring of the force action line during a correction or optimization of the position of the person standing on the support plate (1) by virtue of the fact that lifting devices (9) are arranged underneath the bearing surfaces (10, 10′) and above the support plate (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Siegmar Blumentritt, Walter Hollaschke, Karl-Heinz Klingebiel
  • Publication number: 20040222026
    Abstract: Disclosed is a bath scale for measuring a user's weight having a weight display and a message display driven by a detection-and-display system adapted to provide through the message display one or more substantially non-deductive messages to the user of the bath scale that instruct the user in plain language how to use the scale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventors: Gabriel Kohn, Alejandro Herrera, Anson Wong, Patricia Bassett
  • Patent number: 6781067
    Abstract: A body weigh scale that mounts into a floor of a room, for example in the floor of a bathroom, and that is designed to receive tiles or other floor covering materials thereon. A weighing mechanism of the body weigh scale generates weight information and transmits that weight information to a remote countertop or wall mounted display. The display may normally show a clock or another displayed item, and may convert its view to show weight units when a user steps on a platform. The display may also be configured to receive medical information from other medical devices, such as blood glucose monitors, heart rate monitors, or blood pressure monitors. The medical information may be shown by the display, may be received by the display and transmitted to another computer (e.g., at a hospital), or may be stored in the display for later transmission or evaluation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.
    Inventors: James G. Montagnino, Anson Wong, Ricardo Murguia
  • Patent number: 6765155
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a device that allows a fisherman 12 to measure and weight their catch 14 to determine if they are of legal size or a throw back. The device of the present invention consists of a plastic housing 16, including a carrying handle 18. A measuring ruler 20 is stenciled upon the horizontal face of the device and is used to measure the user's catch. On the opposing rear wall is a pictorial display of game fish 22 with information on size, and weight restrictions of different species as dictated by local authority. A weight scale 42 is provided and housed within an end wall 24 having an access panel 40. A hook chain device 36 is also provided and consists of a hook 44 attached to one distal end of the chain 46 and another hook 44 attached to the other distal end of the chain 46 stored within the weight scale compartment 26. One end hook 44 of the chain device 46 is attached to a loop 38 on the weight scale plate 52.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Alvin D Gray
  • Publication number: 20040026134
    Abstract: The invention is a device and means that reduces the amount of overloading and under-loading of plastic grocery bags. A bag rack has a scale attached to its base with the scale connected to an indicator. The plastic bag rests on the scale which weighs the contents of the bag as they are being added. The indicator checks the weight of the contents of the bag. If the contents are under the targeted weight an indicator is lit, when the targeted weigh is reached another indicator is lit, and if a “not to exceed weight” is reached a warning indicator is lit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Dana D. Waggoner, Delbert J. Graf
  • Patent number: 6689964
    Abstract: A mechanical weighing scale having mechanical parts driving a pointer rotating around a fixed disc or dial having slots or holes formed therein. The mechanical pointer operates to provide an analog display of one's weight to the user. An optical sensor system is responsive to the mechanical motion of the mechanically-rotating pointer as it passes over each of the holes or slots for determining a number of counts associated with the mechanical motion of the rotating pointer and translating the counts to a corresponding weight value for display onto a digital display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Measurement Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Petrucelli
  • Patent number: 6674019
    Abstract: A display and operating element (1) for an electronic scale with a display area (2, 3) in which the weighing results and values, parameters or selection lists can be displayed for user prompting either separated spatially or in succession over time, and having at least one button (6-8) for operating the scale. The display and operating element (1) has a rotary knob (4) on one side that turns in both directions to cause the values, parameters or marked areas of the selection list displayed in the display area (3) to change in one or the other direction. A button (5) is assigned to the rotary knob (4) as an acknowledgement button. Operation of this acknowledgement button (5) causes the value, parameter and marked area of the selection list selected using the rotary knob (4) to be accepted into the electronic evaluation unit of the scale. Accordingly, simple and fast setting of values and/or parameters and a fast selection of a specific item from a selection list can be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Sartorius Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Christian Oldendorf, Rolf Dix, Axel Taube
  • Patent number: 6608260
    Abstract: A body weigh scale that displays a user's weight in a gravity system other than where the scale is being used, such as a planet, the sun, the moon, or another celestial body. The body weigh scale includes a conversion component that converts the user's weight to the other gravity system. In one embodiment, the scale utilizes a mechanical weighing mechanism, having an analog display, and also has a digital display, where weight information is generated, for example, by a pulse counter. The user's weight may be simultaneously displayed both in the “home” gravity system where the scale is used (e.g., the earth), and another, “away” gravity system (e.g., the sun). The display of the home weight may be via an analog dial, and the display of the away weight may be via a digital display such as an LCD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.
    Inventors: James G. Montagnino, Janice M. Biang
  • Patent number: 6605784
    Abstract: A display unit for a measuring instrument, particularly for a weighing balance (1), has at least one line-shaped pointer element (25, 27) presented as an image on a display screen composed of individually controllable image dots. The image dots are aligned in the customary dot-matrix arrangement along two grid axes. The display controller is programmed so that the line-shaped pointer element, as it sweeps through its display range, maintains a constant slope angle in relation to the grid axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo GmbH
    Inventors: Marc Eigenmann, Siegfried Gluvakov, Reto Nüesch
  • Patent number: 6603082
    Abstract: A device for controlling a physical system, such as a flow of pedestrians, in an extended area is suggested. In comprises a plurality of identical cell units with preferably hexagonal shape. The cell units are assembled in tile-like manner to form a floor. Each cell unit is equipped with a weight sensor, lamps of different colors, and optical communication ports as well as power connectors for connecting it to its neighboring cells. The cell units can be programmed to generate signals that control the physical system, such as signs understood by the pedestrians. Due to its modularity and simple design, the device is easy to install and maintain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignees: Eidgenossische Technische Hochschule Zurich, Universitat Zurich
    Inventors: Tobias Delbrück, Rodney James Douglas, Pierre Marchal, Paul Verschure, Adrian Maurice Whatley
  • Patent number: 6583369
    Abstract: A scale with a transiently visible display includes: an enclosure having an upper surface; a measurement device disposed in the enclosure; and a display coupled to the measurement device and attached to the enclosure beneath the upper surface, the display displaying a measurement value only when the display is an active state. Activation of the measurement device places the display in the active state whereas deactivation removes the display from the active state. The enclosure obscures the display from visibility when the display is not in the active state. Optionally, the scale may include a facade beneath the upper surface and a shutter adjacent the facade and covering the display, the shutter being coupled to the measurement device. The shutter opens to reveal the display during activation. The enclosure obscures the facade and the shutter from recognition when the measurement device is not in the active state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.
    Inventors: James G. Montagnino, Anson Wong, Ricardo Murguia, Monique Chatterjee, Elliott Hsu, Greg Holderfield, Randall Bell, Dan Peterson
  • Patent number: 6563059
    Abstract: Fat weighing scale including a reinforced glass or acry-made square step board and a display panel and several control buttons arranged on front side of the step board. The display panel is connected to internal control chip set and cells. The center of the step board is provided with a conductive section which is connected with the control chip set in the display panel. An upper cover and a seat body are mated with each other on each corner of the step board. Each seat body is co-used with a transmission sensor, a switch seat, a restoring spring, a press leg, a press leg seat and a seat cover mated with the seat body. The transmission sensor is connected with a control chip connected to the control chip set of the display panel. Two conductive wires are wound between two seat bodies on two sides of the step board to serially connect the same. The switch seat is drivingly connected under the transmission sensor and provided with a switch at the center. The press leg is a case having a central projecting post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Shang Chuen Weighting Machine Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wu-Hsiung Lee
  • Publication number: 20030010543
    Abstract: A scale with a holographic projector includes a weight measurement device and a holographic projector coupled to the weight measurement device. Activation of the weight measurement device activates the holographic projector that then projects in mid-air a holographic image indicative of a weight of an object being measured. Optionally, the scale may include a display coupled to the weight measurement device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: James G. Montagnino
  • Publication number: 20020195283
    Abstract: A mechanical weighing scale having mechanical parts driving a pointer rotating around a fixed disc or dial having slots or holes formed therein. The mechanical pointer operates to provide an analog display of one's weight to the user. An optical sensor system is responsive to the mechanical motion of the mechanically-rotating pointer as it passes over each of the holes or slots for determining a number of counts associated with the mechanical motion of the rotating pointer and translating the counts to a corresponding weight value for display onto a digital display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventor: Steven Petrucelli
  • Publication number: 20020144845
    Abstract: A scale with a transiently visible display includes: an enclosure having an upper surface; a measurement device disposed in the enclosure; and a display coupled to the measurement device and attached to the enclosure beneath the upper surface, the display displaying a measurement value only when the display is an active state. Activation of the measurement device places the display in the active state whereas deactivation removes the display from the active state. The enclosure obscures the display from visibility when the display is not in the active state. Optionally, the scale may include a facade beneath the upper surface and a shutter adjacent the facade and covering the display, the shutter being coupled to the measurement device. The shutter opens to reveal the display during activation. The enclosure obscures the facade and the shutter from recognition when the measurement device is not in the active state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventors: James G. Montagnino, Anson Wong, Ricardo Murguia, Monique Chatterjee, Elliott Hsu, Greg Holderfield, Randall Bell, Dan Peterson
  • Patent number: 6410863
    Abstract: An apparatus which measures the body weight of an individual, comprising a platform for supporting the individual to be weighed; a plurality of sensors disposed within the platform for sensing a force exerted on the platform indicative of the weight of the individual and generating an analog signal proportional to the sensed force; electronic means for combining the analog signals from the plurality of sensors to form a combined electronic signal indicative of the weight of the individual; a processor for generating a digital signal based on the electronic signal for driving an electro mechanical actuator for displaying the measured body weight on a display device, the display device comprising a graduated dial having at least one concentrically arranged scale and a rotatable pointer, the pointer driven in rotation by the actuator according to the processor to a position on the graduated dial which corresponds to the measured body weight of the individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Measurement Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Cappiello
  • Patent number: 6410864
    Abstract: A liquefied gas amount measuring device includes an electronic display, a retractable cylinder, a grip element, and a hooking lug. The retractable cylinder includes a cylinder body having a retractable rod fitted with a spring at an intermediate section thereof placed therein. One end of the retractable rod extends out of the cylinder body for suspension of the hooking lug to pull out the retractable rod so as to compress the spring in the cylinder body to generate a resilient force after release of pulling force. The other end of the retractable rod that extends out of the cylinder body has a conductive elastic plate bent therefrom at a suitable position. A detecting circuit board is erected in the cylinder corresponding to range of displacement of the elastic plate moved by the retractable rod when pulled. A plurality of detecting circuits on the circuit board are connected when pressed by the elastic plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Grand Hall Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: David Kim
  • Publication number: 20020074170
    Abstract: A display and operating element (1) for an electronic scale with a display area (2, 3) in which the weighing results and values, parameters or selection lists can be displayed for user prompting either separated spatially or in succession over time, and having at least one button (6-8) for operating the scale. The display and operating element (1) has a rotary knob (4) on one side that turns in both directions to cause the values, parameters or marked areas of the selection list displayed in the display area (3) to change in one or the other direction. A button (5) is assigned to the rotary knob (4) as an acknowledgement button. Operation of this acknowledgement button (5) causes the value, parameter and marked area of the selection list selected using the rotary knob (4) to be accepted into the electronic evaluation unit of the scale. Accordingly, simple and fast setting of values and/or parameters and a fast selection of a specific item from a selection list can be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Christian Oldendorf, Rolf Dix, Axel Taube
  • Patent number: 6373237
    Abstract: Electronic scale including a line power voltage supply (5); a line switch (9); and a separate voltage supply (20), which is independent of the line powered voltage supply (5) and which supplies at least one clock module (22) with voltage. The scale has a normal operating state in which all the electronic components are supplied with voltage, a standby operating state in which the essential heat-generating components are switched on while components susceptible to deterioration over time and the display (3) are switched off and, in addition a further operating state (sleep mode) in which the line switch (9) is open. After expiry of a prescribed time and/or at a prescribed time of day, the clock module (22) automatically terminates the further operating state and switches over into the normal operating state or the standby operating state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Sartorius Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Christian Oldendorf, Guenther Maaz, Christoph Berg
  • Patent number: 6359239
    Abstract: A cutting board suitable for commercial or non-commercial purposes in which food can be cut on a cutting surface of the cutting board surface and slid quickly and simply to a separate scale weighing surface of the cutting board surface to be weighed. The weighing surface on which the food is weighed is separately supported by a scale and move upwardly and downwardly independent of the cutting area. The cutting board also includes a visual display that displays information representative of the food, such as, for example, the weight of the food resting on the scale surface. A control panel includes one or more selector switches that allow the user to customize information displayed on the visual display and input information representative of the food. The cutting surface, weighing surface, visual display and control panel are sealed as to prevent food, liquid, washing solution, or the like, from entering the cutting board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventors: Leonard R. Missler, Walter F. Lewis
  • Patent number: 6268572
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Alva C. Wilson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6166335
    Abstract: A bathroom scale has a measurement value sensor which generates a measurement signal when a person wishing to be weighed stands on the scale. The measurement signal is transmitted to an evaluation circuit which reduces therefrom the weight and displays it on a display device. The evaluation circuit and the display device are supplied with electric energy by a generator upon which the weight of the person wishing to be weighed is applied. The actuation element for the generator is designed as a plunger which drives the generator by means of a toothed rack and pinion and projects over the plate in such a way that it can be actuated independently of the same. The restoring spring acts between the plate and the toothed rack and pinion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Soehnle AG
    Inventor: Armin Soehnle
  • Patent number: 6043438
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Zorix International
    Inventor: Gary L. Helberg
  • Patent number: 6025563
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods are provided for for indicating load weight of a vehicle. The apparatus preferably includes a fluid pressure sensor, such as a transducer, associated with a fluid pressure line of a vehicle for producing a plurality of fluid pressure signals representative of a corresponding plurality of load weights and a load weight indicating device responsive to the sensor for indicating a plurality of load weight levels. The load weight indicating device includes a memory for storing a calibration signal representative of a predetermined load weight limit level and a comparator in communication with the memory and the sensor for comparing the calibration signal to the plurality of fluid pressure signals. The device also preferably includes a plurality of indicators responsive to the comparator for indicating at least two load weight levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignees: Vehicle Enhancement Systems, Inc., Creative Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Lesesky, Michael Malecha, Robert Weant
  • Patent number: 5631448
    Abstract: A weighing apparatus including a load receiving platform, a dial, and a moving indicator. The dial includes a face bearing various indicia for indicating the weight of a load placed upon the platform. A magnifier is operatively associated with the indicator for magnifying only a limited portion of the face of the dial in proximity to the indicator. A lamp, carried by the indicator, illuminates a limited portion of the face of the dial in proximity to the indicator. A switch actuates the lamp upon placement of a load upon the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: Health O meter, Inc.
    Inventors: A. Jay Rabinowitz, Ivan Lestan
  • Patent number: 4898253
    Abstract: An electronic balance for dosing, with a measured value receiver, a digital signal processing unit, a digital entry keyboard for entering the theoretical value of a dosing, with a theoretical-weight memory and with a digital display unit with several positions after the decimal point, that switching means are present which determine the highest-value decade in which a number in the display is not equal to zero and that these switching means regulate the decoding of the display in such a manner that all zeros to the left of this decade up to the units decade are represented as a small zero "o" whereas prezeros in the 10 decade, 100 decade, etc. are entirely suppressed in a known manner. This makes possible a quasi-analog representation of the measured value which is attained in the units decade, the 10 decade, the 100 decade, etc. by means of the known suppression of prezeros even in the case of balance displays with positions after the decimal point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1990
    Assignee: Sartorius GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Oldendorf, Franz-Josef Melcher, Christoph Berg