Abstract: An under-pillow bearing (UPB) load cell for controlling tension in the winding process for a continuous web of material. The load cell has a deflection and sensor assembly that is quickly and easily removable from the load cell for maintenance and repair. The deflection and sensor assembly includes a load beam that is insertable into the load cell. In one embodiment, a pluggable sensor insert may be inserted into or removed from the load beam, without removing any of the fasteners that mount the load cell to the machine support.

Abstract: A load cell is disclosed having a top plate and a base plate, the top plate adapted for receiving a pillow block mounting and shaft bearing thereon and the base plate adapted to be fixedly secured to a machine frame or other fixed structure. A deformable spring member is secured to both plates, which upon deforming tilts the top plate. A pair of gauged beams are disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axes of the plates and substantially orthogonal to the direction of an applied force. The gauged beams are secured at one end to a support member and at the other to a collar member. A load transfer rod secured at one end to the support member extends through the collar member to a link member secured to the top plate. Upon tilting of the top plate, the load transfer rod and the gauged beams deflect, causing strain gauges on the gauged beams to generate electrical voltage signals proportional to the applied force.