Pivotally Interconnected Transmission Levers Patents (Class 177/256)
  • Patent number: 11369863
    Abstract: A building and demolition game apparatus includes a base, a plurality of rectangular block elements, a monitoring unit, a game control unit and a force generating unit. The base has an assembly platform located on an upside of the base. The rectangular block elements layered to form a tower, which is stood on the assembly platform. The tower has upper and lower layers held by frictional coupling between the layers. The tower height increases during game play by removing block elements from one or more lower layers to build up successive upper layers upon the assembly platform. The monitoring unit is disposed in the base to obtain at least two boundary conditions by continuously monitoring. The game control unit is disposed in the base to generate a control signal according to a predetermined threshold and the at least two boundary conditions. The force generating unit is disposed in the base and under the assembly platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: OIVITA CREATIVE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chao-Yu Yueh
  • Patent number: 11237041
    Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling a scale. One system includes a first touchless button, a first visual indicator associated with the first touchless button, a second touchless button, coupled to an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to receive, from the first touchless button, a first signal indicative of a first gesture. The electronic processor is configured to, in response to receiving the first signal, switch second touchless button from a dormant mode to an active mode and activate the first visual indicator. The electronic processor is configured to receive, from the second touchless button, a second signal indicative of a second gesture. The electronic processor is configured to, in response to receiving the second signal, execute a function of the scale associated with the second touchless button. The electronic processor is configured to switch the second touchless button from the active mode to the dormant mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: Pelstar, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Winkler, Ken Harris
  • Patent number: 11169017
    Abstract: A combination weight scale and bath mat for use by a person on a support surface includes a weight scale having a base with a top side, a bottom side, at least one peripheral edge, and three or more feet fixed with the bottom side of the base and adapted to hold the base above the support surface. A circuit includes a power source, a strain gauge mechanism, and an illuminated display on the top side of the base. A flexible top cover fits over the top side of the base and includes an absorbent web of material through which the illuminated display is at least partially visible. The flexible top cover further includes a foam pad with apertures cooperative with the illuminated display such that light is transmitted through the apertures from the illuminated display through the absorbent web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Inventors: William Huckestein, Bryan Kim
  • Patent number: 10845774
    Abstract: A cooking device includes, in one embodiment, a body and a cooking surface. The body defines a cavity. One or more sensors are located within the cavity. The cooking device also includes a processor operable with the one or more sensors to sense an ingredient characteristic with respect to an ingredient that has been deposited onto the cooking surface. The processor is also operable with the one or more processors to sense a cooking environment during the cooking of the meal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: SmartyPlans, Inc.
    Inventors: Rahul Baxi, Prachi Baxi
  • Patent number: 10378950
    Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring device for measuring the mass of a weight, comprising a main frame, a main beam supported on the main frame and comprising a central knife and two side knives parallel with the central knife; a balancing system loaded on one end of the main beam and comprising a set of counterweights; a weighting system loaded on the other end of the main beam; a weight transportation system capable of transporting and loading a standard weight or a test weight into the weighting system and capable of unloading and transporting them away from the weighting system; and a control system. The central knife and the two side knives are made from metal with a high temperature-cryogenic cycling process. The central knife and the two side knives are configured to be adjusted in parallelism with a three-coordinates measuring machine. The control system is adapted to control the balancing system and the weighting system to synchronously load or unload the balancing system and the weighting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF METROLOGY
    Inventors: Jian Wang, Changqing Cai, Xiaoping Ren, Tao Li, Manhong Hu, Xiaolei Wang, Honglei Ji, Xiang Wang, Ping Chen
  • Patent number: 10180346
    Abstract: A weight measurement system and a weight measurement method using a robot, by which a weight greater than a weight capacity of the robot can be measured. The system has a robot, a robot controller for controlling the motion of the robot, and an arithmetic processing unit for calculating the weight of an article to be measured. The robot is configured to apply a force to a working point connected to a tank so that at least one of support points or a part of a support surface of the tank is lifted, and simultaneously, the remaining support point or the remaining part of the support surface of the tank is grounded. The weight of the tank containing processing fluid can be measured based on a relationship between the force applied to the working point by the robot and a lever ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kenzo Ebihara, Takeshi Ooki
  • Patent number: 9869578
    Abstract: A magnetic stirrer (1) has a housing (2) for accommodating a drive (3) and a holder or mounting plate (5) for a stirred vessel and a stirring magnet. A plurality of mounting feet (6) are provided for mounting the magnetic stirrer (1) on the base, which mounting feet are mounted in a movable or flexible manner and are connected to a weight measuring device or sensors belonging to a weight measuring device, with the result that the weight of the stirred material or a change in weight can be determined at any time without complicated additional weighing operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: IKA-Werke GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Dirk Waldmann, Erhard Eble
  • Patent number: 8171784
    Abstract: A gas cylinder residual gas volume indicator includes a carrier having a weight-receiving part and a pressure-applying part, a hydraulic cylinder having a cylinder body holding a hydraulic fluid and a cylinder piston stopped against the pressure-applying part of the carrier and movable with the pressure-applying part relative to the cylinder body to force the hydraulic fluid out of the cylinder body according to the weight received from a gas cylinder by the weight-receiving part, a hydraulic mechanical type meter having an index rotatable by a hydraulic fluid, and an oil pipe for guiding the hydraulic fluid out of the hydraulic cylinder into the meter to rotate the index.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Winners Products Engineering Ltd.
    Inventor: David Hong
  • Patent number: 7989713
    Abstract: An adjustable weighing scale includes first and second scale sections deployable in a full-width configuration and an extended-width configuration. A connecting member extends between the scale sections. Load sensing apparatuses are mounted on the scale sections and output signals related to a portion of the full weight of an associated object on the scale. An output device receives the signals and communicates the full weight sensed by the scale in appropriate units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventors: Joan Hulburt, Brian B. Mathewson
  • Patent number: 7683273
    Abstract: An adjustable weighing scale includes first and second scale sections deployable in a full-width configuration and an extended-width configuration. A connecting member extends between the scale sections. Load sensing apparatuses are mounted on the scale sections and output signals related to a portion of the full weight of an associated object on the scale. An output device receives the signals and communicates the full weight sensed by the scale in appropriate units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventors: Joan Hulburt, Brian B. Mathewson
  • Patent number: 7435917
    Abstract: An adjustable weighing scale includes first and second scale sections deployable in a full-width configuration and an extended-width configuration. A connecting member extends between the scale sections. Load sensing apparatuses are mounted on the scale sections and output signals related to a portion of the full weight of an associated object on the scale. An output device receives the signals and communicates the full weight sensed by the scale in appropriate units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Inventors: Joan Hulburt, Brian B. Mathewson
  • Patent number: 7214892
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a weighing scale having a lever assembly which includes a pair of levers. Each lever has first and second pivotal ends and an intermediate region for engaging a weight sensing mechanism. A platform is provided upon the lever assembly. Upon application of an object to the platform, a load is transmitted through the lever assembly to the weight sensing mechanism. The platform may include a top portion and a bottom portion for enclosing the lever assembly. The top and bottom portions of the platform may be secured together. A bearing insert for reducing friction in the lever assembly is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Metro Corporation
    Inventor: Sidney W. Williamson
  • Patent number: 6997278
    Abstract: A torque-based occupant weight estimation apparatus for a vehicle seat includes front and rear torsion bars through which the seat frame is coupled to a set of floor brackets. The torsion bars are rotatably mounted on the floor brackets, and linkage arms rigidly coupled to opposing ends of each torsion bar are rotatably coupled to the seat frame so as to convert occupant seat weight into torsion bar torque. Torque sensors coupled to the torsion bars provide an indication of occupant weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Duane D. Fortune
  • Patent number: 6946632
    Abstract: A weight measuring device having a lever structure, a cooking apparatus equipped with the weight measuring device, and a mounting structure of the weight measuring device. A weight sensor pushed by a lever is disposed on an outer bottom surface of a cooking cavity. The lever is extended from the weight sensor to a lever passing hole to perform a lever action with a first end of the lever protruded to an inside of the cooking cavity through the lever passing hole, and a second end of the lever inserted into a lever receiving hole of a sensor housing that accommodates the weight sensor. The lever transmits pressure, which is generated when rollers pass over the protruded first end of the lever, to the weight sensor through the lever action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jong Chull Shon, Young Hoon Kang, Han Jun Sung
  • Patent number: 6903282
    Abstract: A scale having a load platform suspended by multiple horizontally spaced suspension members. Tensions on the suspension members apply torques to a load transfer linkage comprising a plurality of horizontally extending, torsionally rigid torque transfer members arranged for additive transfer of the torques to a lever counterbalancing and indicating device. Equality of the torque arms at all connections of the suspension members to the rigid members is achieved by allowing the suspension members to extend substantially vertically and to bear with minimal lateral forces on calibrating sleeves of predetermined uniform and equal diameters received on the rigid members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Hyer Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank S. Hyer
  • Publication number: 20040045746
    Abstract: A scale having a load platform suspended by multiple horizontally spaced suspension members. Tensions on the suspension members apply torques to a load transfer linkage comprising a plurality of horizontally extending, torsionally rigid torque transfer members arranged for additive transfer of the torques to a lever counterbalancing and indicating device. Equality of the torque arms at all connections of the suspension members to the rigid members is achieved by allowing the suspension members to extend substantially vertically and to bear with minimal lateral forces on calibrating sleeves of predetermined uniform and equal diameters received on the rigid members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: Hyer Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank S. Hyer
  • 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: 6677540
    Abstract: Personal weighing scales comprise a load platform (2) made of a plate-like material, a mechanism (4) for measuring the load bearing on the platform (2), a frame (3) for supporting the mechanism, and support devices in the form of appendages (15) fixed to the load platform (2) on the side facing the mechanism and bearing on the mechanism in order to transmit thereto the load bearing on the platform (2); connectors between the platform and the frame comprise at least one elongate element (16a, 16b) having a first end connected to the frame (3) and a second, opposite end connected directly to the corresponding appendage (15) so as to prevent detachment of the load platform (2) from the frame (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Laica S.r.l.
    Inventor: Maurizio Moretto
  • Patent number: 6639158
    Abstract: A toot assembly for a weighing scale is provided including a base and an annular ring that is arranged in coaxial spaced relation to the base, and supported by a plurality of resilient beams that project radially outwardly from a portion of the base. Each of the resilient beams comprises a compound curve contour so that the plurality of resilient beams may twist and/or bend to take up and compensate for unwanted rotational moments or twisting torques that result from placement of the foot assembly on an uneven surface. A weighing scale is also provided incorporating the foregoing foot assemblies, and including a platform coupled to a mounting tray and including a weight determination assembly that is positioned between the platform and the mounting tray. A plurality of force transfer beams are arranged within the mounting tray so as to substantially support the platform and the mounting tray such that the mounting tray is isolated from a support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Measurement Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Damon Germanton
  • Patent number: 6617531
    Abstract: To provide a seat load measuring device which is capable of reducing production cost and assembly cost and which makes it possible to measure the weight of the person on the seat more accurately. The device measures the load of a seat of a passenger vehicle (including the load of an object placed on the seat), wherein the load of the seat is received at three positions, the load being put together in a load cell and transmitted through a transmission mechanism, load measurement being performed by a load cell or a load measurement plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Takata Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Aoki
  • Publication number: 20030066690
    Abstract: A toot assembly for a weighing scale is provided including a base and an annular ring that is arranged in coaxial spaced relation to the base, and supported by a plurality of resilient beams that project radially outwardly from a portion of the base. Each of the resilient beams comprises a compound curve contour so that the plurality of resilient beams may twist and/or bend to take up and compensate for unwanted rotational moments or twisting torques that result from placement of the foot assembly on an uneven surface. A weighing scale is also provided incorporating the foregoing foot assemblies, and including a platform coupled to a mounting tray and including a weight determination assembly that is positioned between the platform and the mounting tray. A plurality of force transfer beams are arranged within the mounting tray so as to substantially support the platform and the mounting tray such that the mounting tray is isolated from a support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: Damon Germanton
  • 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: 20020050412
    Abstract: A lever system (1, 7) for a weighing scale has an electrical transducer, particularly a strain gauge (14), producing signals corresponding to the amount of the weighing load. The transducer is attached to a body (1) that is coupled to the lever system (1, 7). The lever system (1, 7) includes a means (17) for receiving a calibration weight (18) in an arrangement where the forces generated by the calibration weight (18) and/or a damper element (5, 6) are magnified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 1999
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventors: JEAN-CHRISTOPHE EMERY, MARC ISELI
  • Patent number: 6323444
    Abstract: To provide a seat weight measuring apparatus capable of estimating with higher precision the weight and the center of gravity of a passenger on the seat and with reduced cost, a seat weight measuring apparatus is provided. The seat weight measuring apparatus comprises a load cell, a connecting mechanism, which connects a seat and the seat fixing portion of the vehicle body, and a transmitting mechanism which transmits the action of the seat weight on the connecting mechanism to the load cell. In the transmitting mechanism and the connecting mechanism, arms are pivotally supported by horizontal pivots so that the arms can pivot about the pivots. Actions according to the pivotal movements of the arms are transmitted to a load cell. Loads on the front side portion and the rear-side portion of the seat are each measured by one center load cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Takata Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Aoki
  • Patent number: 6284987
    Abstract: A weighing scale detects and indicates changes in a small weight that is embedded within a much larger residual weight. The scale device has a base and a top weighing pan above it, with a linkage supported between the base and the top pan. A counterbalance weight lever is supported on a pivot member, and has one end connected to the linkage, and a counterbalance weight on the other end. An adjustable tensioning spring provides a balancing force for the counterbalance weight lever within the weight range of the critical weight. A potentiometer of other detecting device can provide an electrical signal to an alarm device to warn the consumer that the weight of a consumable quantity has dropped into the critical weight range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: Khalid F. Al-Modiny
  • Patent number: 6069325
    Abstract: A seat weight measuring apparatus measures a seat weight including a weight of a passenger sitting on an automotive seat. The seat weight measuring apparatus is formed of seat connecting mechanisms with arms for connecting the seat to seat fixing portions located on a car body, load sensor mechanisms for receiving and detecting the seat weight applied between the car body and the seat, and displacement restriction mechanisms for restricting displacement of the seat relative to the seat fixing portions within a predetermined range. Each arm of the seat connecting mechanisms has a seat side end and a car body side end, and one or both ends is pivotally supported on pivots. The characteristic of the weight applied to the load sensor is simplified to easily and accurately measure the weight of the passenger on the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Takata Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Aoki
  • Patent number: 5998742
    Abstract: A force transducer and method of measuring an applied force such as a weight of material, comprising a balance beam, said balance beam being supported at a preset position on a base at a fulcrum between its two ends, a voice coil actuator comprising an electrically conductive coil and a magnet, the coil being mounted on the base and the magnet being mounted on one side of the fulcrum of the balance beam, a counterbalance mounted on the second side of the fulcrum of the balance beam whereby said balance beam is generally unresponsive to low frequency vibration at the base, a beam position sensor for detecting beam movement from its preset position by a force applied to the beam, a control system associated with the sensor and coil and responsive to the sensor for supplying an electric current through the coil in an amount sufficient to maintain the magnet and thereby the beam at the present position, and a current detector for measuring the amount of current so supplied and thereby the amount of the applied fo
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Jyh-Dong Liu, Imre Andrew Pattantyus-Abraham, Lin Yang
  • Patent number: 5811739
    Abstract: A bale weighing device for use with a mobile baler is disclosed. The weighing device comprises a support structure which is attached to the baler and pivotably supports a pivot shaft. Two balance arms are rigidly attached to the pivot shaft and support a bale chute. One of the balance arms has a forward end and a rear end which form an angle in the balance arm. The bale chute is attached to the baler by a double hinge which allows the bale chute to move vertically relative to the baler. When a bale is resting in the bale chute, the forward end of the balance arm moves upward and a pointer indicates the relative weight of the bale on a gauge. An electronic position sensor may also be used to indicate the weight of the bale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: Donald Palmore
  • Patent number: 5801338
    Abstract: A platform weighing scale includes a base with vertical corner stands and a weight supporting platform including depending corner bearings. A weight sensing apparatus is supported on the base corner stands and supports the weight supporting platform so that it is moveable relative to the base. A weight sensing mechanism is responsive to movement of the platform for operating a weight indicating device. The weight sensing mechanism includes a plate operatively associated with the weight indicating device. A pair of primary levers are secured at one end to the plate and diverge therefrom relative to a longitudinal centerline and define a select angle therebetween. Each primary lever includes an upper notch receiving one of the corner bearings and a lower notch receiving one of the corner stands so that movement of the platform causes pivotal movement of the levers to move the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Metro Corporation
    Inventor: Sidney Williamson
  • Patent number: 5731548
    Abstract: A big dial platform scale includes a scale base. A weight sensing apparatus is supported on the base including a weight supporting platform movable relative to the base and a weight sensing mechanism responsive to movement of the platform for moving a beam. A weight indicating apparatus is supported on the base for rotation relative thereto for indicating weight on the platform. A pinion is operatively connected to the weight indicating apparatus for rotating the weight indicating apparatus. A rack is movably supported on the base and operatively engages the pinion for rotating the same. A spring rope is connected between the beam and the rack for transferring movement of the beam to the rack to drive the weight indicating apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Metro Corporation
    Inventors: Sidney Williamson, Stan B. Hanssen
  • Patent number: 5721400
    Abstract: A scale, especially a bathroom scale, comprises a base (10), a platform (11) and, arranged therebetween, a weighing mechanism comprising a U-shaped supporting bar (34) which is attached to the base (10) and supports indicating elements of the weighing mechanism. The mechanism also comprises two pairs of levers (12, 13) which support the platform (11). All four levers (12, 13) are at one end pivotally mounted on or in the vicinity of the corners of the base (10). The levers (12) of one pair of levers form a V-shaped lever part (15) by extending in V-shape from a plate (14) which is supported by a spring (30) included in the weighing mechanism, the spring being arranged on a longitudinally adjustable upright (31) resting against the base. The levers (13) of the other pair of levers are, at their end (21) operatively connected to the lever part, formed with a downwardly open recess (22) which rests against a corresponding, upwardly open recess (23) in the levers (12) of the lever part (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Assignee: EKS International AB
    Inventors: Tore Osten Haraldsson, Tage Soren Haraldsson
  • Patent number: 5708236
    Abstract: A weighing scale comprising a housing having an upper platform for receiving a load, and a base; a lever assembly comprising a plurality of levers, each of which is in operative contact with the upper platform and supported by a post element mounted on the base. A cantilever beam is mounted on the base and positioned between the lever assembly and the base. A weight-transmitting pin is provided for supporting the lever assembly and acting on the cantilever beam for transmitting the load from the intermediate cover to the cantilever beam through the lever assembly. A strain gauge element is fixed on the cantilever beam for converting a strain developed therein into an electrical signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Enlight Corporation
    Inventors: Gad Shaanan, Walter Francovich, Derek Hunziker
  • Patent number: 5616889
    Abstract: A summing bar suspension scale having a platform for supporting objects to be weighed, a frame, weighing bars, a weighing arm assembly, and a pair of summing bar assemblies. One of the summing bar assemblies is connected to one of the weighing bars and to the weighing arm assembly and the other summing bar assembly is connected to the other weighing bar. Strap assemblies are connected to a platform support assembly, the weighing bars and the frame and summing bar strap assemblies are connected to the summing bar assemblies so that the summing bar assemblies are rotated in response to rotation of the weighing bars by an object being disposed on the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Inventor: John Paul
  • Patent number: 5610373
    Abstract: An improved scale, including bathroom-type scales, is provided by employing markings on the dial for calibrating the scale using photosensor equipment. The adjusting nut of the scale and the calibration stud of the scale are both accessible for automated mechanical calibration after assembly of the scale. As a result, an iterative calibration procedure is employed by machine as opposed to traditional manual methods. Photosensors read the dial and send a signal to mechanical driver or wrench mechanisms for automated calibration. The improved scale and calibration method reduces labor and production costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: Sunbeam Corporation
    Inventors: Delbert B. Graves, Michael L. Pyle, Victor Rossol, Paul R. Buhr
  • Patent number: 5384437
    Abstract: A torque bar suspension scale having a platform for supporting objects to be weighed and a pair of torque bars with each torque bar being disposed at an opposite end of the platform. Strap assemblies are connected to the platform, the torque bars and a frame whereby the torque bars are rotated in response to a weight being disposed on the platform. Each strap assembly comprises a strap having a rectangularly shaped cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Assignee: Adrian J. Paul Company
    Inventors: John Paul, Adrian J. Paul
  • Patent number: 5384438
    Abstract: A torque bar suspension scale having a platform for supporting objects to be weighed and a pair of torque bars with each torque bar being disposed at an opposite end of the platform. Strap assemblies are connected to the platform, the torque bars and a frame whereby the torque bars are rotated in response to a weight being disposed on the platform. Each strap assembly comprises a strap having a rectangularly shaped cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Assignee: Adrian J. Paul Company
    Inventor: John Paul
  • Patent number: 5369223
    Abstract: Apparatus for processing materials including a receptacle for containing and processing fluid materials such as animal feed. A frame supports the receptacle on a base surface. A weighing mechanism supports the frame and includes at least one member yieldable proportionally in response to the weight of materials contained in the receptacle. An arm connected to the yieldable member is movable in response to its movement. An enclosed collapsible container or bellows having circumferentially corrugated cylindrically-shaped sidewalls and first and second closed ends has a first end being supported by a fixed support. The second end is aligned with, and movable in response to, movement of the arm. A conduit in fluid flow communication with the interior of the collapsible container is at its other end visually transparent, vertically aligned, open to the atmosphere, and contains a liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1994
    Assignee: Sand Mark Corp.
    Inventors: Vernon R. Berg, Jr., Monte W. Haugland
  • Patent number: 5308935
    Abstract: A torque bar suspension scale having a platform for supporting objects to be weighed and a pair of torque bars with each torque bar being disposed at an opposite end of the platform. Strap assemblies are connected to the platform, the torque bars and a frame whereby the torque bars are rotated in response to a weight being disposed on the platform. Each strap assembly comprises a strap having a rectangularly shaped cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Assignee: Adrian J. Paul Company
    Inventors: John Paul, Adrian J. Paul
  • Patent number: 5219030
    Abstract: An improved method of assembling conventional scales, including bathroom scales, is provided by employing an improved spring for connecting the upper housing to the bottom pan. The upper housing may now be connected to the bottom pan with a simple downward force imposed on the improved spring thereby hooking the bottom of the spring to the bottom pan and mateably engaging the tapered top of the spring in an extruded hole in the upper housing. The improved spring is tapered at the top end to mateably engage the extruded hole in the upper housing and includes only one hook on the bottom end for engagement with the bottom pan. The improved spring enables easier and faster assembly of conventional scales thereby reducing labor and production costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Assignee: Newell Operating Company
    Inventor: Frank J. Mordick
  • Patent number: 5215155
    Abstract: Weighing device for weighing a container to be moved by at least one arm system with a lifting device, comprising a support, a lifting arm pivotally connected at one end to the support, and a weighing arm pivotally connected to the lifting arm at one end of the weighing arm adjacent the point of connection of the lifting arm to the support. The other end of the weighing arm detachably supports a container to be weighed. A load cell assembly is disposed and acts between the other end of the lifting arm and the weighing arm adjacent support for the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1993
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo A.G.
    Inventor: Henricus F. M. Van der Velden
  • Patent number: 5205370
    Abstract: A torque bar suspension scale having a platform for supporting objects to be weighed and a pair of torque bars with each torque bar being disposed at an opposite end of the platform. Strap assemblies are connected to the platform, the torque bars and a frame whereby the torque bars are rotated in response to a weight being disposed on the platform. Each strap assembly comprises a strap having a rectangularly shaped cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Adrian J. Paul Co.
    Inventors: John Paul, Adrian J. Paul
  • Patent number: 5133421
    Abstract: A weighing scale includes a hollow casing having a lower base and an upper covering for support an object. A pressure gauge mounted to the base includes an indicator, and a hydraulic pressure sensor connected to the indicator and actuating it in response to a sensed pressure produced by the weight of the object. Four spaced fulcrum posts are mounted to the base. A lever mechanism includes a rear one-piece rod and a pair of spaced front rods respectively and pivotably mounted to the four fulcrum posts. The rear one-piece rod includes a force exerting plate resting on the hydraulic pressure sensor. A transmitting frame provided between the covering and the lever mechanism includes a pair of spaced rods and a connecting rod mounted between the spaced rods which are pivotably mounted to the lever mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1992
    Assignee: Lee Wang Industry Ltd.
    Inventor: John Wang
  • Patent number: 5133420
    Abstract: A weighing scale having a load receiving platform which delivers forces to a force collecting lever system mounted on the scale base by means of self adjusting bearing members projecting downwardly from said platform and secured to said platform by assembly tabs which permit limited freedom of movement in the horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1992
    Assignee: Sunbeam Corporation
    Inventor: Rodney Smith
  • Patent number: 5094307
    Abstract: A weighing scale with two overlapping weighing beam arrangements hinged in the middle of the weighing scale by means of connecting rods with pivot bearings and pivots and connected to a ground plate at the extremes has a pendulum foot (19) at the ends of each weighing beam arrangement which can swivel in a foot groove on the ground plate (39). The ends of the weighing beam arrangements accommodate a pivot block arrangement with two opposed pivots (50, 51). Support in pivot bearings is located beneath the weighing beam arrangement. The pivot block arrangements and the pivot bearings are located in the centre with regard to the weighing beams and transmit the support forces from the center to the weighing beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Assignee: Seca GmbH
    Inventor: Walter Aschke
  • Patent number: 4938300
    Abstract: A weighing apparatus comprising a first self-contained weighing device (1) including a first farme (2), a first load-receiving member (5) connected by a parallel guide arrangement for movement from a normal no-load position relative to the first frame, a load-responsive device (10) for indicating the magnitude of an applied load as a function of the movement of the first load receiving member, and a first motion-transmitting lever (7) connected between the first load receiving member and the position-responsive device, characterized by the provision of a second load receiving member (16,28) to which the load to be measured is applied, and a second pivotally mounted motion-transmitting lever (17,30) connecting the second load receiving member, thereby to provide a resultant load range that is higher than that of the first weighing device. Thus, various increased load ranges may be achieved starting from a standard self-contained weighing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1990
    Assignee: Mettler Instrumente AG
    Inventor: Peter Kunz
  • Patent number: 4881607
    Abstract: A platform scale with a load platform (7) for receiving articles to be weighed, wherein the load is transmitted to a force sensor by force-transmitting arms (5), and is supported at each of its four corners by a respective single-piece force-transmitting member (2) via a respective load-bearing column (8). Force-transmitting member (2) comprises a fixedly disposed anchoring member (22), a load-bearing member (12) guided for parallel movement with respect to the anchoring member (22) by link members (10, 17), and a lever member (14) suspended between anchoring member (22) and load-bearing member (12) by two thin strips (13, 15) whereby the fulcrum of the lever member is formed by a thin strip (13), and lever member (14) transmits a torque, corresponding to the load, to force-transmitting arm (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1989
    Assignee: August Sauter GmbH
    Inventor: Konrad Backu
  • Patent number: 4844189
    Abstract: A platform type weighing scale wherein an upper surface of a casing constitutes a weight bearing platform and wherein at least three foot elements extending out of a base surface of the casing and capable of limited displacement in directions into and out of said casing co-act with at least three counterbalanced, weight transmitting levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1989
    Assignee: Keter Plastic, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ben Zion Shisgal, Ehud Ermoza
  • Patent number: 4836316
    Abstract: A bath scale of the type having a platform supported by force gathering levers carried by a base pan is made of reduced height through the use of a compression load spring and a molded plastic support which mounts the indicator dial, the calibration mechanism and the linkage which interconnects the load spring and the pinion for the indicator dial.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1989
    Assignee: Sunbeam Corporation
    Inventors: Francesco L. Carnevale, Kirk D. Morrow
  • Patent number: 4832142
    Abstract: Electronic scale apparatus is provided wherein a force collecting lever system, disposed within a base, receives forces imposed upon a cover for that base from force communicating members disposed near peripheral locations on the cover. At each of the peripheral locations the cover is biasingly attached to the base to prevent instability of the cover or displacement thereof as a result of forces imposed on the cover. The forces imposed on the lever system by the force communicating members are collected, concentrated at a point and transmitted to a force collecting beam where the force is applied to a transducer beam having a transducer thereon where the precisely collected resultant force is measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1989
    Assignee: Measurement Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Damon Germanton
  • Patent number: 4821823
    Abstract: A torque suspension weighing scale includes a subframe, a weighing platform, an torque suspension members all integrally combined by unique ball and seat retention assemblies fitted within keyhole formations formed in each of the subframe and weighing platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1989
    Assignee: Mid-America Scale, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Skibinski