Abstract: This force measuring apparatus includes a balance beam, means for applying a force representative of a load to be weighed to the balance beam, and means for applying counterweights in preselected steps to the balance beam. A signal is picked up from the position of the beam and is used to actuate a display indicating the weight of the load. The balance beam moves within a limited range of positions. Whenever it approaches one end of its limited range, a maximum or minimum signal is produced and controls a motor to drive the counterweight means to apply counterweights to the beam or to remove counterweights, as required to restore the balance beam to its limited range of positions. The display is concurrently reset to compensate for the change in the counterweight, so that the display accurately indicates the weight of the load.

Abstract: This scale is primarily intended for the weighing of a hospital bed containing a patient. It may weigh an empty bed or any wheeled load. The scale is mounted on a frame which rests on the floor during a weighing operation, and is lifted off the floor onto a set of casters for moving the scale from one location to another. A detachable handle is provided for pulling the scale on its casters. The scale frame is oblong. The bed being weighed is supported on two channel-shaped rails, which are upwardly open. A pair of upwardly open, channel-shaped ramps are provided for rolling a bed onto the weighing rails from either side of the scale. The rails are provided with retractable blocking bars at both ends to prevent a bed from accidentally rolling off the rail. The ramps are removable. Provision is made for mounting the ramps on the scale during movement of the scale from one location to another.