Abstract: A load cell for measuring a force applied thereto by an object for determining a weight of the object. The load cell includes a rigid block having a number of interconnected cavities having a strain gage pocket, a strain gage positioned in the strain gage pocket, and potting material filling the interconnected cavities such that moisture and debris cannot enter the strain gage pocket.

Abstract: A load cell for measuring a force applied thereto by an object for determining a weight of the object. The load cell includes a rigid block having a number of interconnected cavities having a strain gage pocket, a strain gage positioned in the strain gage pocket, and potting material filling the interconnected cavities such that moisture and debris cannot enter the strain gage pocket.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for weighing wheeled or wheel- or caster-supported loads, including non-ambulatory patients confined to wheeled beds, which combines lift, support, and weight-measuring functions. The apparatus (10) is lightweight, portable, and employs a foot-activated lever-based design, including a foot bar (51) and pivoting wheel receptacle (50), for raising both the load and the load's wheeled support, if any. The apparatus (10) can be positioned for use without moving the load, and, because the apparatus utilizes leg and lower body strength, operators need not possess substantial arm or upper body strength. Thus, injuries which result from improper lifting techniques are avoided.

Abstract: A platform scale (10) includes a signal processor (22) operable to perform statistical analyzes such as least squares or other mathematical analyzes such as successive approximation of the load signals from the respective load cells (14) supporting a platform (12) in order to produce load position correction factors used in determining the weight of a load on the scale (10).

Abstract: This apparatus includes a wheeled base adapted to roll under a hospital bed, an upright at one end of the base and a T-bar adapted to extend over the hospital bed. Suspended from the T-bar is a frame mounted for limited swinging movement and adapted to engage the side rails of a stretcher. Load cells in the swinging frame measure the weight of a patient on the stretcher, and are connected to indicator means mounted on the upright.

Abstract: A multiple load-cell weigh scale (10) is disclosed which provides for substantially enhanced accuracy and significantly greater convenience in compensating for load position. The preferred scale (10) includes a platform (12) supported by plurality of digital load cells (14), a central controller (16) for producting a plurality of digital excitation signals representative of a selected excitation voltage for the respective load cells, and an excitation control unit (22) for each load cell for receiving respective excitation signals and for controlling excitation voltage of an associated load cell (20) in accordance therewith.

Abstract: A weigh scale having a unique display is provided which allows rapid, accurate, and convenient determination of the weight of an object to the nearest discrete fractional portion of a weight unit. The preferred weight unit includes a digital display for the object in whole ounces and four light-emitting indicators, one of which illuminates to indicate the object's fractional weight to the nearest quarter-ounce.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for mounting a load cell unit between the fixed support and shiftable force responsive structures of a weighing scale or other force measuring equipment in an improved manner minimizing to a point of virtual elimination the accuracy impairing effects of "side loading" of the load cell unit due to lateral and rotational movements of the shiftable structure relative to the fixed structure caused by spurious factors. The load cell unit is disposed between, and in oppositely engaged type coupling relationship with, a rigid plate and a flexure plate spaced from the latter in a carrier assembly, and the carrier assembly is disposed between, and in oppositely engaged rolling contact type coupling relationship with, opposed portions of the fixed and shiftable structures. The engagement coupling relationship between the load cell unit and the flexure plate of the carrier assembly is also of the rolling contact type.