Abstract: The scale for weighing bed-ridden patients includes two assemblies each of which has a pair of rollers mounted on a load frame upon which the entire bed can be elevated. The bed frame has two pairs of ramps mounted on an underside whereby the bed can be rolled onto the rollers. Each ramp has inclined surfaces to cause lifting of the bed onto the rollers of the scale assemblies.

Abstract: The hospital bed is provided with a scale assembly which is incorporated into the bed between the bed support frame and patient supporting section. The links which connect the patient support section to the bed support frame are connected to the load frame of the scale assembly so that weighing may occur in any position of the patient support section. The scale assembly is connected to the transverse beams of the bed support frame in a depending manner via bolts. Linear variable differential transformers are used to obtain read-out signals for the displacement of the load frame as a measure of the weight on the load frame.

Abstract: The weight monitoring system provides a visual read-out to compare an actual weight change in a patient undergoing a change of weight treatment against the elapsed time of treatment. In one embodiment, the actual weight loss is displayed in bar form against the elapsed time also in bar form. In a second embodiment, the read-out uses a display screen for graphically displaying a chronological sequence of differences between a programmed weight change and an actual weight change.The monitoring system can be used to automatically control a dialysis unit or may provide readings which permit a manual adjustment in a dialysis unit.

Abstract: The scale is of limited height and utilizes Z-shaped flexures between the load frame and support frame. The scale can be placed in a hospital bed for weighing bed-ridden patients or for monitoring weight variations in bed-ridden patients. Each flexure has a Z-shaped cross section with flanges extending to opposite ends of the element for securement to the load frame and the support frame, respectively, of the scale. The web of the flexure is connected to a torsion bar which turns with the flexures in order to produce a read-out signal via an LVDT.