Abstract: An improved load cell block (40) having a pair of slots (56) extending inwardly from first and second ends (46 and 48) to form an upper pair of beams (58), a lower pair of beams (60) and a central portion (62). The lower wall (66) of the slots (56) have a groove (72) formed therein for concentrating bending forces in the lower beams (60). The slots (56) terminate at an end wall (68) that is comprised of a bore (52) formed by drilling to have machining marks that are lateral to the longitudinal axis of the block to reduce the formation of stress cracks.

Abstract: A relative movement sensor that may be used to measure the force applied to a beam, for example to provide an onboard weighing system for a truck. The sensor measures relative movement between first and second portions of the beam, and includes a housing connected to the first portion and a mounting block connected to the second portion. An optical source and a pair of optical detectors are secured to the housing. A line between the first and second portions define a first axis, and a line between the source and a point midway between the detectors defines a second axis. The mounting means mounts a beam modulator between the source and detectors, such that relative movement as between the first and second portions results in movement of the beam modulator with respect to the housing. A measurement circuit provides an output signal corresponding to the relative illumination falling on the detectors.