With Casing Patents (Class 177/238)
  • Patent number: 11103160
    Abstract: A method includes generating, via a camera, image data that is reproducible as an image of at least a portion of a subject. The method also includes receiving, via a sensor, first biomeasurement data associated with the subject, the first biomeasurement data including a first biomeasurement of the subject. The method also includes verifying the first biomeasurement of the subject based at least in part on a comparison between at least a portion of the image data and at least a portion of the first biomeasurement data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: MEDF LLC
    Inventor: Michael Evan Emalfarb
  • Patent number: 11029192
    Abstract: A high-capacity weighing module has a top plate weldment (10), a bottom plate weldment (30) and a pressure-bearing assembly (20) that is between the top and bottom plate weldments. Motion between the respective top and bottom plate weldments is restricted. This structure aids in easy installation and replacement of a sensor, and integrates the functions of anti-overturning and 360° inspection, and bottom stop. This makes the weighing module much more convenient to install than a conventional high-capacity module, and has a better safety function. The weighing module has advantage in terms of a simplified product structure, reduced cost of manufacture and maintenance, uncomplicated installation procedure, and higher safety and protection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignees: Mettler-Toledo (Changzhou) Precision Instruments Co., Ltd., Mettler-Toledo (Changzhou) Measurement Technology Co., Ltd., Mettler-Toledo International Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Rabin Shrestha, Tom Leahy, Ping Zhang, Ferenc Muranyi
  • Patent number: 11027388
    Abstract: A machining system comprises a machining device that machines a workpiece, a set-up station with which pallet workpiece attachment/detachment is carried out, and a pallet conveyance device that conveys the pallet between the machining device and the set-up station. A partially cylindrical operator door, which can rotate around a set-up table on which the pallet is mounted, includes a partially cylindrical outer door and a partially cylindrical inner door which rotate following coaxial circular trajectories of different radii. The set-up station is provided with an interlocking mechanism that causes the outer door and the inner door to rotate in an interlocked manner so that a shielded state is constantly maintained between the operator side and the pallet conveyance device side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: MAKINO J CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takudai Maenosono, Takahiro Yoshida, Nobuhiro Uchida, Yuichi Aoyama
  • Patent number: 10441112
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system configured to determine masses, weights, and/or other quantities of individual ingredients added to a food dish during preparation. At least some of the components of the system may be configured to be used in a food preparation area. The system may include a scale, a client computing device, external resources, and/or other components. The system may be configured to weigh and/or determine the mass of individual ingredients of the dish as the ingredients are added to the dish. The system may be configured to determine the individual mass and/or weight of each ingredient based on the masses and/or weights of individual ingredients previously added to the dish and/or a current mass and/or weight of the dish as a given ingredient is added.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: VITA-MIX MANAGEMENT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Santiago Merea
  • Patent number: 9939312
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed for dynamic nutrition tracking with utensils. In an example embodiment, a food consumption utensil may include a handle portion, a food loading portion adjacent to the handle portion, the food loading portion having a first surface and a second surface, and a controller positioned within the handle portion. The food consumption utensil may include an accelerometer positioned within the handle portion and in communication with the controller, and a force measurement device configured to measure a force imparted at the first surface of the food loading portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventor: Umar Rahim Bakhsh
  • Patent number: 9092050
    Abstract: A checkout device including a multi-touch surface display which can also weigh items. An example checkout device includes a surface element for displaying transaction screens and for receiving touch inputs during a transaction, and a load cell below the surface element for producing a weight signal corresponding to a weight of an item of the transaction on the surface element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventors: Janry C. Amada, Donald A. Collins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9018545
    Abstract: A checkout system includes a workstation having a data capture arrangement for capturing through a horizontal window a target associated with a product to identify the product being checked out at the workstation, and a scale for weighing the product at the workstation. The scale has a scale mechanism, and a weighing platter on which the product is placed for weighing. The weighing platter is integrated with the horizontal window and overlies the scale mechanism. The weighing platter projects past the scale mechanism and has a front end that overhangs the scale mechanism. Non-threaded, interlocking connectors, which are provided on the weighing platter and the scale mechanism, prevent the weighing platter from tipping if a force is exerted on the front end of the weighing platter. The weighing platter is mounted on, and removed from, the scale mechanism without the aid of tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl D. Wittenberg, John E. Wilson
  • Patent number: 9012792
    Abstract: A pull-type weighing module comprises a pull-type sensing body (1,210), a base plate (2,220), a pressure seat, a first pin (4,420), and a second pin (5,250), wherein the first pin (4,420) is parallel with the second pin (5,250). A left bracket (21,221) and a right bracket (22,222) are set on the base plate (2,220), and the first pin (4,240) is supported on the left bracket (21,221) and the right bracket (22,222). The left bracket (21,221) and the right bracket (22,222) are provided on the left side and the right side of the sensing body (1,210) respectively. A left supporting arm (31,231) and a right supporting arm (32,232) are set on the pressure seat, and the second pin (5,250) is supported on the left supporting arm (31,231) and the right supporting arm (32,232). The left supporting arm (31,231) and the right supporting arm (32,232) are provided on the left and right side of the sensing body (1,210) respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Youngzon Transducer (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yong Gui
  • Patent number: 8969744
    Abstract: The invention relates an intelligent lunch box, mainly comprising a start button, containers for containing food and with open tops, a movable cover plate for controlling the opening and closing of the containers, a motor for controlling the opening and closing of the cover plate, a controller for controlling the running of the motor, a memory having a diet database, a touch display, and weight sensors for sending the weights of the containers to the controller, wherein the start button is electrically connected with the controller, the memory, the motor and the touch display, respectively; the controller is electrically connected with the memory, the motor and the touch display, respectively; the controller is a single-chip computer or a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The lunch box of the present invention is simple in structure, and safe and convenient in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Xi'an Dai Zhihong Industry and Trade Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Guangsen He
  • Patent number: 8963025
    Abstract: A surgical sponge and fluid monitoring system and method are provided. The system (100) includes a support ring (104) for securely supporting a container (101) with at least one port opening (206) for placing sponges (204) into the container through the at least one port opening. The support ring includes RFID communication circuitries (305, 307) that interrogate an RFID device (205) in the sponge (204) and an RFID device in the container. The support ring is mechanically linked to a load cell (706, 1329) in the system. The processor (1302) reliably detects when a sponge is placed into the container through the at least one port opening, identifies the type of sponge placed into the container, counts the number of sponges in the container, sorts the types of sponges, and calculates fluid loss for a patient in a surgical procedure. A user interface (1308, 114) keeps the medical professionals informed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Surgitrac Corporation
    Inventors: Richard A. Pollock, Mahmood S. Kassam
  • Patent number: 8952276
    Abstract: A suitcase scale is bundled a suitcase for providing functions of scaling and anti-theft. The suitcase scale comprises a housing, a processing unit disposed in the housing, a weight sensor secured in the housing and electrically connected to the processing unit, a combination lock mounted into the housing, a buckle detachably engaged to the housing and a strap having two opposite ends respectively connected to the buckle and the housing. Consequently, the strap, the buckle and the housing form an endless ring for bundling the suitcase when the combination lock is in a locked condition. The suitcase scale immediately shows the total weight value of the suitcase to prevent the user from paying and excessive baggage charge and provides a function of anti-theft due to the combination lock such that a thief or a pickpocket can not steal the belongings in the locked suitcase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Chun Ming Lin
  • Patent number: 8927883
    Abstract: An infant-nursing platform includes a cushion adapted for supporting a baby while nursing. The cushion has a support surface. Weighing means are disposed within the cushion and operably coupled to the support surface to weigh the baby on the support surface of the cushion. A user interface device is operably coupled to the weighing means to obtain measurement information therefrom. The user interface device and produces an output in response to the measurement information obtained from the weighing means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Daniel Lawrence Roth
  • Patent number: 8912455
    Abstract: A balance having at least one adjusting device (2, . . . ) having a drive, wherein the drive of the adjusting device is configured as a fluidic drive (4, . . . ), to which pressure can be applied by a pressure source disposed outside the scales via a pressure connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Sartorius Lab Instruments GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Laubstein, Juergen Lauke
  • Patent number: 8901442
    Abstract: The present invention is a smart luggage having an outer case and an inner case with a weight determination mechanism therebetween in electrical communication with a circuit having firmware and an exterior electronic display. The circuit further incorporates a GPS locator and a transponder, whereby a user having a mobile device enabled with tracking software may be able to locate and retrieve lost or stolen luggage. Also provided within the smart luggage is a camera that can take one or more pictures when the smart luggage is opened by a person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Guillermo Dilone
  • Patent number: 8884170
    Abstract: A hand-held electronic luggage scale includes a handle designed to be held generally horizontally, and a hook supported by the handle, which extends generally vertically below the handle. The handle houses an electronic scale, the electronic scale connected to the hook for calculating a weight of an object suspended from the hook. The hook may be metal and have a rubber and/or plastic exterior. A touch screen display may be provided in a top surface of the handle that displays the calculated weight from the electronic scale component. The touch screen display may include an icon representing a virtual control button that controls a user-selectable setting, and provides haptic feedback when the user-selectable setting changes due to a user pressing the virtual control button for a predetermined period of time. The touch screen display may include icons that control power, illumination, units of measurement, and/or other functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: 2395954 Ontario Inc.
    Inventor: Haroon Sheikh
  • Patent number: 8859914
    Abstract: The present invention is a digital scale having an outside housing that generally is supported from a support surface from a horizontal surface, where the outside housing preferably encloses a microprocessor operating under a control program and is at least connected to a power supply, a sensors/load cell unit, an input/output unit, and a user interface with a display. The sensors/load cell unit is operatively connected with a weighing surface plate, upon which may directly receive to an upper surface an item which will be weighed or which may engage other intervening plates or containers which ultimately support an item to be weighed. The outside housing defines an opening in a bottom, side or top surface which provides access to an adjunct tools container which lies, in a stored position, completely or mainly, within a form factor of the outside housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Kerry Zhi Huang
  • Patent number: 8816224
    Abstract: A droplet discharge device for discharging a liquid material onto a workpiece includes a droplet discharge head, a guide rail, a stage, a maintenance stage and a weight measurement device. The droplet discharge head discharges the liquid material. The guide rail extends in a prescribed direction. The stage, on which the workpiece is mounted, moves on the guide rail along the prescribed direction. The maintenance stage moves on the guide rail along the prescribed direction. The weight measurement device is disposed on the maintenance stage, the weight measurement device measuring weight of droplets discharged from the droplet discharge head and is able to be disposed at a location opposite the droplet discharge head when the maintenance stage moves along the guide rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Takatoshi Yamamoto, Kenji Kojima
  • Patent number: 8803009
    Abstract: Powder dispensing and sensing apparatus and methods are provided. The powder dispensing and sensing apparatus includes a tray support structure to receive a cartridge tray holding cartridges, a powder dispenser assembly including powder dispenser modules to dispense powder into respective cartridges of a batch of cartridges in the cartridge tray, a powder transport system to deliver powder to the powder dispenser modules, a sensor module including sensor cells to sense respective fill states, such as the weights, of each of the cartridges in the batch of cartridges, and a control system to control the powder dispenser modules in response to the respective sensed fill states of each of the cartridges of the batch of cartridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: MannKind Corporation
    Inventors: Trent A. Poole, David F. Bonneau, Per B. Fog
  • Patent number: 8785793
    Abstract: An electronic digital controller, such as a load cell indicator, is disclosed in which a number of components, such as a circuit board, display, and keypad are placed within an enclosure, and the enclosure is bonded closed, such as using an adhesive, to render the enclosure watertight. The keypad is a touch sensitive, capacitive keypad with no moving parts, and it is housed behind a rigid panel. An optoelectronic transceiver allows for data exchange with an electronic memory device housed in the adhesively sealed enclosure and allows for data exchange and for updating or modification of software code housed therein. Other components, such as another circuit board, a power supply, and block connectors, are placed in an adjacent enclosure, and the circuit boards in the two enclosures are electrically connected. The power supply is preferably a potted AC power supply but may also include a battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Weightech, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy R. Cox, Ronald T. Pagan, Stephen S. Newell, Steve D. Tull
  • Patent number: 8770983
    Abstract: A method and program product comprises the steps of receiving information comprising at least a user's physical data. The information being input using a user interface device and being stored electronically. A user's plate of food items placed on a scale support structure is identified. The plate comprises a plurality of compartments, each of the compartments being configured to retain a food item. Weight information is received from a plurality of weighing devices. Each of the weighing devices is operable to electronically communicate a weight of one of the compartments and its contents. The weight information is processed to at least determine weight and nutritional information for the food items. At least the determined weight and nutritional information for the food item in each compartment and a total weight and nutritional information for the food items in the plate is communicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Inventor: Nicolaos Batsikouras
  • Patent number: 8716612
    Abstract: A housing (1) encloses electronic components (2) that control operation of a weighing scale. The housing has a first housing part (10) and a second housing part (30). The respective housing parts are designed to form a first enclosed space (6) for housing the electronic components between the respective housing parts. A fastening module (60) is arranged between the respective housing parts. The fastening module has a first side (61) and an opposing second side (62). The first side includes first and second circumferential seating ledges (63, 64) that receive, respectively, the first and second housing parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo (Albstadt) GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Schön
  • Patent number: 8716611
    Abstract: A weighing scale (10) has a display/operating unit (20), a scale platform (30), an electronic system (60) for the control of the scale (10), and a pedestal (40) that connects the display/operating unit to the scale platform. The pedestal contains a pedestal chamber (41). The pedestal also has a pedestal opening (42). A carrier element (70) is arranged in or at the pedestal chamber. At least parts of the electronic system are arranged on the carrier element, and the parts of the electronic system which are arranged on the carrier element can be at least partially taken out of the pedestal opening for servicing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo (Albstadt) GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Schön
  • Patent number: 8704110
    Abstract: An electronic weighing device is provided. The electronic weighing device comprises an elongate frame; a head unit, wherein the head unit is supported by the frame. The electronic weighing device further includes a scale platform coupled to a base of the frame, and a load-cell module residing in the scale platform, wherein the load-cell module is configured to convert a force on the scale platform when a user stands on the scale platform, into a measurable electrical output signal. The electronic weighing device further includes an electronic display device in the head unit, an electronics module coupled to the load-cell module and to the electronic display device, wherein the electronics module is configured for interacting with a user via the electronic display device and determining the weight of the user based on an electrical output signal from the load-cell. The electronic weighing device further comprises a communication module configured for communicating with a remote device via a communication link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: OVS, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael E. Forshaw, Kenneth G. Lawrence, James R. Fabbro
  • Patent number: 8698013
    Abstract: A feed weighing assembly includes an assembly scale, a display screen interfacing with the assembly scale and an insert body carried by the assembly scale and sized and configured for placement in a game feeder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventors: James C. Hall, James F. Hall, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8698014
    Abstract: An apparatus that provides for the measurement of a person's weight via a portable remote readout located at eye-level. The weight measuring device comprises a low profile mat with weight sensors that are activated whenever someone steps on the mat. The sensors communicate a sensor weight signal to a transmitter, which in turn communicates the weight signal to a receiver preferably located at eye-level and provided with a variety of mounting means. A preferred embodiment provides for a magnet which enables mounting of the receiver on a refrigerator door. Such a location is envisioned to provide an incentive for those trying to lose weight, by providing one's current weight on the refrigerator door to avoid any unnecessary snacks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: David M. Walstad
  • Patent number: 8692140
    Abstract: A surgical sponge and fluid monitoring system and method are provided. The system includes a support ring for securely supporting a container with at least one port opening for placing sponges into the container through the port opening with the aid of gravity. The support ring includes IR emitters and sensors that blanket IR beams across the port opening. The support ring is mechanically linked to a load cell in the system. The processor, with novel methods, reliably detects when sponges are placed into the container through the port opening, counts the number of sponges in the container, sorts the types of sponges, and calculates fluid loss for a patient in a surgical procedure. A user interface in the monitoring system keeps the medical professionals in the OR fully informed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Surgitrac Corporation
    Inventors: Richard A. Pollock, Mahmood S. Kassam, Thomas D. Cox
  • Patent number: 8664547
    Abstract: A load cell assembly is used with a scale having a weighing platform, in order to provide a very low clearance above a surface on which the scale is positioned. The load cell assembly has a load cell with first and second arms. A bridge portion of the load cell connects the arms, maintaining them in a substantially parallel relationship, with at least a portion of the second arm having a height that is larger than a height of the first arm and the bridge portion. A fastener attaches the load cell to the weighing platform, on the second arm portion with a larger height. A foot device, attached to the first arm, spaces the load cell above the surface on which the scale is positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Alton Werner
  • Patent number: 8610008
    Abstract: A conveyor belt scale (1) for transporting and weighing bulk material, having a rocker (6) that acts on a rod system (9), and having a weighing cell (11) connected with the rod system (9), is supposed to be configured in such a manner that the weighing cell, in particular, can also be reached from the outside. This is achieved in that the conveyor belt (2) is surrounded by a pressure-resistant, explosion-protected housing (7), whereby the rod system (9) that acts on the weighing cell (11) is passed out of the housing (7) by way of at least one elastic bearing (10) having a pressure-resistant seal, whereby the weighing cell (11) is positioned outside of the housing (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: FLSMIDTH A/S
    Inventor: Habib Futehally
  • Patent number: 8517618
    Abstract: A cassette device is arranged to be removably mounted to or inserted into a printing device of a weighing scale housing a print-head mechanism and a drive roller. The cassette device includes a feed hub and a take-up hub rotatably mounted to a wall for cooperating with the drive roller. The wall forms a part of or closure for the weighing scale housing. Label roll end sensing, backing paper tension control, print head movement and pressure adjustment, and label feed/print line alignment arrangements are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin R. Cartwright, Nicholas L. Barnes, Junior Lescott, Ian Taylor, Denis Montagutelli
  • Patent number: 8469220
    Abstract: The envelope holder generally consists of a main body forming a pocket to accept and store the envelopes. The main body has a front on which a size indicator is affixed. A ledge is approximately perpendicular to the front of the main body such that when a card sits on the ledge the size indicator will alert the user whether or not the envelope is the correct size. A back attachment is attached to the main body such that the envelope holder can attach to the card rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Chastine Van Fleet
  • Patent number: 8426753
    Abstract: A gravimetric measuring instrument that contains a weighing cell having a load-transmitting member. A load receiver can be coupled to the load-transmitting member through a releasable connection. A mechanical stop resides on the load-transmitting member, and a mechanical counter stop resides on the load receiver. By means of an eccentric bolt engaging the load receiver and the load-transmitting member, the mechanical stop can be pressed against the mechanical counter stop, whereby the stop can be clamped tight against the counter stop. With this arrangement, the load receiver can be rigidly but releasably secured to the load-transmitting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Adrian Birrer, Andreas Metzger, Thomas Köppel
  • Patent number: 8389878
    Abstract: A pad is disclosed for use in a weighing system for weighing a load. The pad includes a weighing platform, load cells, and foot members. Improvements to the pad reduce or substantially eliminate rotation of one or more of the corner foot members. A flexible foot strap disposed between the corner foot members reduces rotation of the respective foot members about vertical axes through the corner foot members and couples the corner foot members such that rotation of one corner foot member results in substantially the same amount of rotation of the other corner foot member. In a strapless variant one or more fasteners prevents substantially all rotation of a foot member. In a diagonal variant, a foot strap extends between a corner foot member and the weighing platform to reduce rotation of the foot member about a vertical axis through the corner foot member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: UT-Battelle, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Knox Abercrombie, Gregory David Richardson, Matthew Bligh Scudiere
  • Patent number: 8344272
    Abstract: A chair-based scale for weighing a person in a seated position is disclosed. The scale includes a system for electronically displaying data and other information. In one embodiment, the chair-based scale is a stand-alone scale, and in other embodiments, it communicates with a remote computer. According to one embodiment, the chair comprises a collapsible chair. A collapsible chair provides certain advantages, such as lower manufacturing and shipping costs, and ease of shipping to and storage and use at a user location (e.g., a patient's home or apartments), or a health care facility. According to an embodiment of the invention, the collapsible chair may be a folding chair, e.g., of the deck chair or director chair type. According to one embodiment, the chair comprises a protective cover that is movable to prevent loading of a load sensor in a non-weighing condition of the chair. In another embodiment, the chair is provided with wheels and e.g., is of the transport type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Ideal Life, Inc
    Inventors: Harvey Goldberg, Ki Kwan Chu, Jason Goldberg
  • Patent number: 8330057
    Abstract: The food calorie counting system relates to a calorie counting system that utilizes a container with at least one chamber for holding food materials, sensitive scales integrated into the chambers to weigh the food, and a processor to calculate the number of calories in the food items based on weight, type of food and method of preparation. The number of calories is then displayed on a display device to a user. The system may be used as a stand-alone device, or may further utilize an external central control unit where information from the container is transmitted to the external control unit for processing, food calorie calculation and transmission back to the containers for display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
    Inventors: Mohammad Said Sharawi, Osamah A. Rawashdeh
  • Patent number: 8309866
    Abstract: Apparatus for changing a position of device for measuring a weight of an object. The apparatus includes a conveyor portion, a measuring portion which also conveys the object and measures a weight of the object, and a pair of rails which extend along a conveying direction of the object and onto which the conveying and measuring portions are movably attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Ishida Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsushi Takahashi, Hirokazu Kuribayashi
  • Patent number: 8304669
    Abstract: A holding fixture for the drive unit of a transport device that transports objects to be weighed is arranged between the transport device and the weighing cell which detects the weight. Thus the weight force to be detected by the weighing cell is transferred to the weighing cell by the holding fixture for the drive unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Wipotec Wiege-und Positioniersysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Theo Düppre
  • Patent number: 8304670
    Abstract: A system for weighing a load is disclosed. The weighing system includes a pad having at least one transducer for weighing a load disposed on the pad. In some embodiments the pad has a plurality of foot members and the weighing system may include a plate that disposed underneath the pad for receiving the plurality of foot member and for aligning the foot members when the weighing system is installed. The weighing system may include a spacer disposed adjacent the pad and in some embodiments, a spacer anchor operatively secures the spacer to a support surface, such as a plate, a railway bed, or a roadway. In some embodiments the spacer anchor operatively secures both the spacer and the pad to a roadway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Ut-Battelle, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Knox Abercrombie, Gregory David Richardson, Matthew Bligh Scudiere, Frederick T. Sheldon
  • Patent number: 8299375
    Abstract: A draft protection device for a laboratory instrument according to the invention encloses a weighing compartment that surrounds a balance pan and includes a rear wall, a front wall, two sidewalls, a top cover with at least one opening, and a floor that is delimited by border edges. The top cover is connected at least to one of the two sidewalls and/or the front wall and/or the rear wall in an arrangement where the top cover and the walls connected thereto are vertically movable together in relation to the balance pan. In addition, the vertically movable wall(s) are vertically moveable past the adjacent border edge(s) of the floor. In any vertical position of the top cover, at least one of the sidewalls is horizontally slidable relative thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Paul Lüchinger, Sandra Ehrbar
  • Patent number: 8288668
    Abstract: A carousel (1) for supporting and weighing containers (2), comprising: a carrier element (6) supporting at least one container (2), rotatable about a respective axis (X) and presenting at least one opening (13) affording access to an enclosure (14) within the selfsame element (6); a plate (15) associated with the underside of the carrier element (6), serving to close the opening (13), and a system (17) for weighing the container (2), installed at least partially within the enclosure (14). The weighing system (17) comprises a load cell (18) associated with the plate (15) and housed in the enclosure (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Azionaria Costruzioni Macchine Automatiche A.C.M.A. S.p.A.
    Inventors: Gianpietro Zanini, Marco Baroni
  • Publication number: 20120255645
    Abstract: Powder dispensing and sensing apparatus and methods are provided. The powder dispensing and sensing apparatus includes a tray support structure to receive a cartridge tray holding cartridges, a powder dispenser assembly including powder dispenser modules to dispense powder into respective cartridges of a batch of cartridges in the cartridge tray, a powder transport system to deliver powder to the powder dispenser modules, a sensor module including sensor cells to sense respective fill states, such as the weights, of each of the cartridges in the batch of cartridges, and a control system to control the powder dispenser modules in response to the respective sensed fill states of each of the cartridges of the batch of cartridges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: MannKind Corporation
    Inventors: Trent A. Poole, David F. Bonneau, Per B. Fog
  • Patent number: 8178797
    Abstract: A hermetically sealed scale for use in a weighing scale. A scale of the present invention may include a load receiving plate and a bottom plate, between which is sandwiched a supporting rib structure that preferably includes a plurality of perimeter members that form sealed upright sides of the scale. The supporting rib structure, load receiving plate and bottom plate cooperate to form a substantially rigid and hermetically sealed sandwich structure. The load receiving plate may be joined to the supporting rib structure by perimeter welding or another bonding technique that permits the joining material to be subsequently shaped to form a smooth transition between the load receiving plate and the perimeter members of the scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Bayer, Michael Perrea, Thomas S. Rice, Pete Wyman, Anthony Ticknor
  • Patent number: 8178799
    Abstract: A carrier for objects to be sequentially weighed is designed for connection to a load receiver of a weighing cell. The carrier has a supporting structure and a multi-compartment weighing tray. The supporting structure has an element for coupling the supporting structure to the load receiver and an element for connecting the weighing tray to the supporting structure in a guided and constrained manner. The weighing tray is seated or slid into place, leaving it free to perform a defined linear, swiveling, or rotary movement relative to the supporting structure. The weighing tray has at least two receiving compartments, arranged so that each can be sequentially moved into a defined loading position, fixed relative to the supporting structure. A positioning device, arranged between the supporting structure and the weighing tray, precisely aligns with the loading position the receiving compartment that is next to be moved into the loading position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventor: Paul Lüchinger
  • Publication number: 20120111647
    Abstract: A personal scale has a housing having a generally horizontal upper platform wall adapted to be stood on by a person, and formed with a central boss shaped having sloped side surfaced angled to fit the longitudinal arch or instep of a person standing on the platform. An evaluating/display unit in the housing determines and displays the weight of the person standing on the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventor: Ralf LINDNER
  • Patent number: 8153912
    Abstract: A baby scale includes a weighing tray configured to hold a baby and having a first tray half and a second tray half disposable together in a storage position; a measuring device configured to support the weighing tray and configured to determine a weight of the baby, the measuring device including at least one load cell; a display configured to show the weight of the baby; and a connection device configured to establish a mechanical connection and an electrical connection when the first tray half and the second tray half are in a weighing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Soehnle Professional GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Stephan Gerster, Michael Schurr, Albrecht Stahl
  • Patent number: 8148651
    Abstract: A pet feeding and weighing system for efficiently providing a weighing platform having one or more feeding bowls therein to allow for a pet to be weighed in a consistent manner when the pet returns for food or drink. The pet feeding and weighing system generally includes a platform having a feeding portion and a weighing portion extending therefrom, wherein the feeding portion includes at least one opening extending therethrough and at least one feeding container is positioned within the opening. A plurality of weight sensors are in communicative contact with the weighing portion and a local digital display responsive to the weight sensor indicates a weight applied upon the weighing portion of the platform over the weight sensor. The present invention may also include a controller having memory for storing and allowing the retrieval of past weight measurements along with their respective date and time taken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Judith M. Coppola
  • Patent number: 8138431
    Abstract: A weighing cell includes a load receptor having a plug connector mounted thereon. The plug connector is adapted to receive a complementary plug connector of a conveying system so as to connect the conveying system to the load receptor either mechanically or electrically, or both. The load receptor-mounted plug connector may be adapted to receive the complementary plug connector in only one orientation to ensure proper electrical connections where such connections are made through the plug connector. The load receptor-mounted plug connector also include a centering arrangement for facilitating the proper connection with the complementary plug connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Wipotec Wiege-und Positioniersysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Theo Düppre
  • Patent number: 8076596
    Abstract: A weighing cell for use in an associated receiving holder, wherein the weighing cell and receiving holder are oriented relative to each other by means of alignment elements and through the use of the weighing cell in the receiving holder for the simultaneous production of a detachable, mechanical, and electrical connection to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Wipotec Wiege-und Positioniersysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Ralf Burkart
  • Patent number: 8067705
    Abstract: A lower portion of a slide door of a windshield for a weighing apparatus is located in a guide groove of the main body of the windshield, along which guide groove the slide door opens and closes. A protrusion is protruded in a lower portion of the slide door and the protrusion engages an upper face of a frame in which the guide groove is formed. The protrusion supports weight of the slide door, and is slid on the upper face of the frame while the slide door does not come into contact with a bottom surface of the guide groove, thereby opening and closing the slide door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: A&D Company, Ltd
    Inventors: Naoto Izumo, Hirosi Sigano, Satosi Suzaki
  • 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: 8017877
    Abstract: A portable scale having a collapsed and an extended condition is provided by a pair of rigid beams, each generally elongated with opposing longitudinal ends. A weight sensor is provided proximal each opposing longitudinal end of each beam of the pair. Processing and outputting circuitry is supported by a first beam of the pair, the processing and outputting circuitry being electrically connected with each weight sensor in each of the first beam and second. One or more flexible connectors mechanically and electrically connect together the pair of rigid beams in side by side parallel orientation in a collapsed condition of the scale and in an extended condition of the scale. The flexible connectors are the only permanent physical and operable, mechanical and electrical connections between the pair of rigid beams in the extended condition of the scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: M. Richard Cohen