Assembly Support Patents (Class 177/244)
  • Patent number: 11740121
    Abstract: A weight checker includes a transport unit, a weighing unit, a body, and a frame. The transport unit transports products under inspection. The weighing unit determines the weights of the products under inspection on the transport unit. The body has a screen relating to the weighing performed by the weighing unit. The frame anchors the transport unit and the weighing unit. The frame has rail members that extend in a transport direction of the transport unit. The body is independent of the transport unit and the weighing unit and is mounted to the rail members such that its position in the transport direction TD can be changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Assignee: ISHIDA CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Emi Mizuno, Heinosuke Shiotani
  • Patent number: 11650094
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are disclosed herein for monitoring physiological data of subjects seated on a toilet, including systems, devices, and methods for monitoring loads and forces on a scale device. In some embodiments, systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein include a set of sensors that can measure loads and forces present at a scale device receiving the feet of an individual seated in a toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: Casana Care, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Borkholder, Austin McChord, Nicholas Joseph Conn, Steve Petrucelli
  • Patent number: 10690536
    Abstract: A multihead weigher that includes a feeder plate for receiving a product supply that has at least one feed outlet at an inner edge of the annular feeder plate. A plurality of staging hoppers is located beneath the outlet of the annular feeder plate. Each staging hopper has a staging inlet and a staging outlet. The staging inlet is located for receiving product from the annular feeder plate. A plurality of weigh hoppers are located beneath the plurality of staging hoppers. Each weigh hopper has an inlet and an outlet. The weigh hopper inlet is located beneath a respective staging outlet; and a collector is located beneath the weigh hoppers for receiving product from the weigh hopper outlets. The collector has a tubular element for receiving a weighed batch of the product from one or more weigh hoppers and the tubular element has a lower dispensing outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Frito-Lay Trading Company GmbH
    Inventor: Clive Bernard Scott
  • Patent number: 10323977
    Abstract: A combination weighing apparatus having excellent sanitation includes: a plurality of weighing mechanisms, a weighing mechanism frame which stores the weighing mechanisms, and a body frame which supports the weighing mechanism frame, in which a normal to a surface of the body frame is inclined with respect to a vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: Ishida Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiki Horitani, Hideshi Miyamoto, Toshiharu Kageyama, Yutaka Tamai, Mikio Kishikawa, Naomi Imaaki, Go Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 9459133
    Abstract: A hopper in a combination weigher comprises a tubular hopper body having an upper opening and a lower opening and being fed with the objects forming the combination, through the upper opening, and a discharge gate which opens and closes the lower opening of the hopper body; wherein the hopper body includes a tubular body having four or more side walls connected together in an annular shape, the tubular body having a horizontal cross section having convex regions; and wherein the hopper body has a shape in which at a boundary portion between adjacent side walls of all pairs, an angle which is formed between a first virtual plane contacting one of the adjacent side walls and a second virtual plane contacting the other side wall, is equal to or greater than 90 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: YAMATO SCALE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Takayuki Nagai
  • Patent number: 9395234
    Abstract: A scale system includes a scale and a base. The scale includes a plurality of feet and a plurality of load cells, wherein each of the plurality of load cells is associated with one of the plurality of feet. The base includes a plate having an upper surface and a lower surface. A plurality of supports extend from the lower surface. Each of the plurality of supports includes a columnar projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: Cardiocom, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel L. Cosentino, Brian A. Golden, Brian Burney Seidlitz
  • Patent number: 9329685
    Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling electronic devices using force sensors include a plurality of force sensors configured such that they are operable to support one or more housings on one or more surfaces. When force is exerted on the housing, this force is measured by the force sensors as force data. This force data is interpreted as at least one input for an electronic device. In some implementations, the electronic device may include various different statuses. In such implementations, the status of the electronic device may be determined and the input that the force data is interpreted as may depend on the determined status of the electronic device. In various cases, the status of the electronic device may be a combination of one or more different statuses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Paul G. Puskarich, Corey S. Provencher, Craig C. Leong, Brandon D. Slack
  • Publication number: 20150014068
    Abstract: The water treatment system, particularly reverse-osmosis system, comprising a salt water container, is characterized in that the salt water container is arranged on a weighing device which measures the weight of the salt water container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Manfred Volker
  • Publication number: 20130112489
    Abstract: The apparatus serves for weighing and has a placement surface (3) for the object to be weighed. The placement surface (3) is provided by a placement element (2) which is supportable by at least two carrying elements (6) with respect to a steepening surface. The carrying elements (6) are configured identically relative to one another. Each of the carrying elements (6) has at least one load cell (17) for weight acquisition and a levelling device for height adjustment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: SECA AG
    Inventor: Walter Aschke
  • Publication number: 20120241228
    Abstract: A compact, pivotally foldable weighing scale for weighing heavy objects such as luggage. The scale may comprise a base comprising four structural members coupled together to describe a rectangle, and a subframe pivotally mounted to the base. The subframe supports a weight receiving platform, a weight sensor, and a display for displaying sensed or measured weight. The subframe may be pivotally mounted to the base at one end of the latter. The weight sensor may comprise a collapsible and expansible pneumatic or hydraulic piston. The display may comprise an analog gauge or alternatively may be an electronic display adapted to display English and metric units of weight. Further, the scale could have a built-in speaker and memory capabilities. The scale may be less than twelve inches in height and five inches in each of width and height. The scale may be provided commercially with an enclosure such as a flexible pouch or generally rigid box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Prus
  • Patent number: 8076596
    Abstract: A weighing cell for use in an associated receiving holder, wherein the weighing cell and receiving holder are oriented relative to each other by means of alignment elements and through the use of the weighing cell in the receiving holder for the simultaneous production of a detachable, mechanical, and electrical connection to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Wipotec Wiege-und Positioniersysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Ralf Burkart
  • Patent number: 8030582
    Abstract: A body weighing machine (100) is provided with a distance measuring sensor (30) at the central position (C) of a base plate unit (50). A CPU (10) measures the body weight of a human subject. The CPU (10) then drives the distance measuring sensor (30) to measure a distance (Dm) between the sensor and a floor surface and determines whether a minimum distance (D) between the base plate unit (50) and the floor surface is zero. The CPU (10) displays via a display unit (15) a message indicating that an error has occurred in a case in which the minimum distance (D) is zero, and otherwise displays the measured body weight on the display unit (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Tanita Corporation
    Inventors: Senri Tanida, Kotaku Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20110198133
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bathroom scale. The scale is comprising of a scale body member and a scale footing member. Said scale footing member connected to said scale body member movably toward and away there from. Said footing member provides a first ground contact surface facing downward for said scale to stay flat on ground. Said scale also has a handle on one side of scale body and a second ground contact surface on a different side of scale body. Said second ground contact surfaces faces sideway when scale stay on its first ground contact surface. User can pick up presenting scale via its handle and let it stay on said second ground contact surface and stand vertically by itself.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: Taiming Chen
  • Publication number: 20110088956
    Abstract: A base for a scale tilts slightly when a wheel is rolled onto it, to facilitate rolling the wheel onto a central ovular or elliptical concave mat surface. Opposed handgrips forming grippable loops may be provided on the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Douglas R. Domel
  • Publication number: 20100243340
    Abstract: A base for a scale tilts slightly when a wheel is rolled onto it, to facilitate rolling the wheel onto a central ovular or elliptical concave mat surface. Opposed handgrips forming grippable loops may be provided on the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Douglas R. Domel
  • Patent number: 7790992
    Abstract: A weight scale consistent with certain implementations has a case having a weight supporting surface that supports an object being weighed. An array of load cells is provided upon which the weight supporting surface rests. A weight measuring circuit receives output signals from the array of load cells and calculates a weight responsive thereto. A first switch trips when a weight is applied to the weight supporting surface while the weight scale is situated on a soft surface. A second switch trips when a weight is applied to the weight supporting surface while the weight scale is situated on a hard surface. A power source is provided and a turn-on circuit responsive to the first and second switch applies power from the power source to the weight measuring circuit upon detection that either the first or second switch has tripped as a result of a weight being applied to the weight supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventor: Charles Richard Abbruscato
  • Publication number: 20100175784
    Abstract: A container supplied to a carousel type filling unit is directed onto a supporting and weighing device (1) that presents a hollow body (12) attached to the carousel and housing a load cell. The hollow body (12) is equipped with a pedestal (19) presenting a platform (20) on which to stand the container, and a connecting element (21) of which a first end (21a) is coupled with the load cell internally of the hollow body (12) and a second end (21b), opposite to the first end (21a), is secured to the platform (20). To advantage, the first end (21a) of the connecting element (21) is seated in a through opening (13) afforded by the underside of the hollow body (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2007
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventor: Gianpietro Zanini
  • Publication number: 20100012393
    Abstract: A body weighing machine (100) is provided with a distance measuring sensor (30) at the central position (C) of a base plate unit (50). A CPU (10) measures the body weight of a human subject. The CPU (10) then drives the distance measuring sensor (30) to measure a distance (Dm) between the sensor and a floor surface and determines whether a minimum distance (D) between the base plate unit (50) and the floor surface is zero. The CPU (10) displays via a display unit (15) a message indicating that an error has occurred in a case in which the minimum distance (D) is zero, and otherwise displays the measured body weight on the display unit (15).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: Tanita Corporation
    Inventors: Senri TANIDA, Kotaku KOBAYASHI
  • Patent number: 7626130
    Abstract: The invention relates to a check weigher comprising a machine body consisting of a front clamping plate and a rear hollow body which is fixedly or detachably connected to said clamping plate and is preferably used as a cabinet for receiving necessary electric and electronic components. The clamping plate is projected on all sides across the hollow body, thereby forming a fastening flange. The outer edge of said fastening flange is provided with a recessed and projected contour which is subdivided into any grid and enables to obtain a positive or non-positive secure connection of accessories with the machine body by means of two clamping plates having a corresponding contour and fixedly connected to a holding plate and additional clamping elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Sartorius Mechatronics C & D GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Werner Scholpp
  • Publication number: 20090090566
    Abstract: A steel coil weighing apparatus includes a base having a structure capable of supporting the weighing apparatus and an article to be weighed and having a base portion capable of contact with a load cell, a platform positioned above the base and having a platform portion capable of contact with a load cell, at least one load cell positioned between the base portion and the platform portion and capable of providing a signal corresponding to the weight of an article to be weighed, and at least one guide capable of aligning the base and the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventors: Jessica Ruth, David Allan Davolt, JR., Marcus Kortan
  • Patent number: 7432455
    Abstract: A frame for a monitoring scale includes a supporting part and two transverse parts by which the frame is supported on the floor. The frame includes a hollow body that may be filled with a ballast material, such as an antiseptic medium, to suppress longitudinal vibrations and to reduce hygienic effects of excess. In addition, a special design of longitudinal supports is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo Garvens GmbH
    Inventors: Hermann Berger, Nikolaos Georgitsis
  • Publication number: 20080191107
    Abstract: A holding device for a scale including a support body, a first solid body link and a second body link. The first solid body link acts as a connection between a first longitudinal side of a scale and the support body, via which the scale can be seated, shiftable in a measuring direction, on the support body. The second solid body link acts as a connection between a second longitudinal side of the scale and the support body, via which the scale can be seated, shiftable in the measuring direction, on the support body, wherein the second longitudinal side and the first longitudinal side are arranged opposite each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventors: Wolfgang Pucher, Ernst Thielicke, Reinhard Mayer, Kilian Bauer, Karl Fiedler
  • Patent number: 7307225
    Abstract: A supporting frame for a monitoring scale is constructed, in its basic form, from a longitudinal supporting frame part (1) and at least one transverse supporting part (2, 2?). Each transverse supporting part (2, 2?) may include a flat, plate-shaped transverse part, via which the stand is supported on the ground. Additional supporting frame parts (3, 3?, 3?), transverse supports (13.1 to 13.4), and other associated parts may also be provided for additional reinforcement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo Garvens GmbH
    Inventor: Hermann Berger
  • Patent number: 7180016
    Abstract: This invention provides a housing (60) for a weight sensor (10). The housing (60) is made from fluid-impervious material and is shaped and configured to completely enclose the weight sensor (10) in a fluid tight manner. The housing (60) includes a bottom portion in the form of a weight sensor accessory pad (62). The pad (62) includes a grooved lower surface (64), the grooves (66) being configured to enhance dispersion, in use, of fluids trapped between the pad (62) and a surface on which the pad (62) rests when a downward force is applied to the part (62).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Hi-Scan Technology (Pty) Ltd
    Inventor: Rudiger Heinz Gebert
  • Patent number: 7138586
    Abstract: A refrigerator with weighing scale includes a refrigerator and a weighing scale. The refrigerator includes a chamber with top, bottom, front, rear, side surfaces, and a control board, and the weighing scale is attached to the bottom surface of the refrigerator. The weighing scale is retractable from under the bottom surface of the refrigerator. The weighing scale includes a digital scale. The digital scale includes a stepping pad and a display for showing the weight. The display of the digital scale is disposed on the control board of the refrigerator, and the display is electronically connected to the remaining portion of the digital scale. The display on the control board of the refrigerator is turned on by stepping on the stepping pad of the weighing scale, by a control switch provided on the control board, or by being pulled out from under the bottom surface of the refrigerator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventor: Brian S. Kim
  • Patent number: 6787713
    Abstract: A load cell and system for detecting the quantity of liquid carbon dioxide in a tank includes load cells positioned between the legs of the tank and a surface. Each load cell includes a frame constructed from a folded metal plate so that a top panel, sides and ends are formed. A beam having proximal and distal ends is suspended from the top panel of the frame by its proximal end and a spacer. A platform support is positioned upon the distal end of the beam with a platform on top. The platform support passes through an opening formed in the top panel of the frame so that the platform is supported above the frame top panel. A leg of the tank is secured to the platform. A strain gauge circuit is mounted to the top surface of the beam and a summary board receives the signals from the strain gauge circuits of multiple load cells so that the quantity of liquid in the tank is determined. This quantity may be displayed and/or transmitted as telemetry to a centralized delivery truck dispatching facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Chart Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Kuechenmeister, Greg Voss
  • Publication number: 20040118620
    Abstract: A balance is connectable to a display/operating unit (13) through a cable (14). The display/operating unit (13) can be placed either adjacent to the housing (1) or at a distance from the housing (1). For storing the unused length of cable (14), a corridor compartment (24) with at least one exit opening (22, 29, 30) for the cable (14) is arranged at the bottom (6) of the balance housing (1). When the cable (14) is pulled out or pushed in, it can move freely inside the corridor compartment (24). The display/operating unit (13) is held in place at the balance housing (1) by means of an intermediate member (10) in an arrangement where the balance and the display/operating unit are resting independently of each other on a supporting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: Mettler-Toledo GmbH
    Inventors: Eduard Fringeli, Paul Luchinger
  • Patent number: 6703568
    Abstract: In a combination weighing apparatus, a plurality of feeders supply a subject to be weighed. A plurality of weighing hoppers receive the subject to be weighed which is supplied by a plurality of feeders. A plurality of weighing devices weigh the subject to be weighed which is received in each of the weighing hoppers. A plurality of weighing devices are fixed to the weighing base. Stands are provided in a circumferential direction at a predetermined interval, the stands respectively have leg portions standing up from a placing surface and supporting portions including horizontal portions connected to the leg portions, and the horizontal portions of the supporting portions are constituted by a plurality of metal supporting columns connected to each other in center portions. The weighing base is directly fixed to a lower surface of the center connecting portions of the stands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Anritsu Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuyoshi Wako, Osamu Tanaka, Eiji Asai
  • Patent number: 6700080
    Abstract: The invention comprises a weighing scale, comprising a weight-receiving platform and a display device, which is angularly adjustable with respect to the plane of the platform, whereby to provide an optimum viewing angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Terraillon Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Brian Stephens
  • Publication number: 20030209086
    Abstract: A force-measuring element for a scale is provided which includes a first end region via which the force-measuring element is adapted to be supported, a second end region which is adapted to have a load to be measured applied thereto, and a central region provided between the first and second end regions to form a measuring point. A cross-sectional weakening is formed in the central region. The central region has a greater height than at least one of the first and second end regions. And a top side and an underside of the force-measuring element approach one another in both a first transition region and a second transition region which respectively begin at the central region and extend toward the first and second end regions, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Applicant: Soehnle-Waagen GmbH & Co.KG
    Inventors: Michael Schurr, Klaus Leber
  • Patent number: 6376783
    Abstract: An electronic scale cartridge plugs into a piece of office equipment and/or a portable electronic device to provide a weight signal to be used in computing a postal or private carrier rate. The piece of office equipment may be a personal computer or one of its peripheral or input devices. The portable electronic device may be a personal digital assistant or a wireless communications device. Preferably, the scale cartridge has a connector which fits a universal or standard port, thereby allowing the cartridge to be connected to any number of devices without modification. Postage is computed in accordance with a program stored in the computer or portable device. Preferably, the program is written to step a user through a postage-computing process using one or more interactive display screens. A second type of electronic scale is adapted for attachment to a piece of equipment using any one of a variety of fasteners which may establish a removable and/or rotatable connection to the equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Vaghi Family Intellectual Properties, LLC
    Inventor: Nino Vaghi
  • Patent number: 5835982
    Abstract: A carriage is movable along a row of tubs in which products to be withdrawn are located. On the carriage is mounted a balance for weighing products which are delivered from the tubs. During the withdrawal and weighing operation the balance is deposited by the carriage onto a support structure of high precision and stability. Preferably the bucket into which the products are delivered is also deposited on the platform of the balance only during the weighing operation, whilst it is maintained raised during translation of the carriage along the row of tubs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Lawer S.p.A.
    Inventors: Walter Lanaro, Paolo De Bona
  • Patent number: 5734128
    Abstract: The present invention provides a single animal weighing apparatus having an external frame supporting by means of a support structure a longitudinally extending load bar and a floating weight crate suspended from the load bar and isolated from the external frame. The support structure of the present invention further enables the use of an auxiliary basket to weigh small animals, the basket being attached to the support structure above the external frame. The present invention further has a pair of gates each having two panels that are each hinged to the external frame and each including a scissors mechanism that is used to open the gate. The gate opening mechanism of each gate is manipulable from either end of the weighing apparatus. To facilitate movement of a weighing apparatus according to the present invention there is a truck provided that is equally attachable to either end of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Assignees: BBBB's Distributing, Inc., Tru-Test, Inc
    Inventors: Blair R. Gades, Jerry W. Gades, Gary R. Walters, Randy P. Stevens, Kent P. Savage, Randall G. Elley, Randy J. Silver
  • Patent number: 5719357
    Abstract: A lop loaded balance with a load receiver (1, 2, 3) connected by at least one upper (11) and at least one lower guide rod in the form of a parallel guide to a system carrier (4) fixed to the housing, which load receiver, guide rods and system carrier are manufactured from one piece. The system carrier (4, 5, 6, 7) is designed as a frame. The frame-like system carrier is completely surrounded by a second frame (14, 15, 16, 17) supported on the balance feet and that both frames are constructed in a one-piece manner and are connected to one another in such a manner that twistings of the one frame are transferred as little as possible onto the other frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Assignee: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Matthias Eger, Heinz-Gerhard Kohn, Werner Schulze
  • Patent number: 5670752
    Abstract: In a weighing conveyor, a driving roller includes an inner cylinder and an outer cylinder. The outer cylinder is rotatably supported on the inner cylinder. An endless belt is laid over the outer cylinder. An electric motor and a load cell are built in the inner cylinder. The motor drives the outer cylinder through a reduction gear mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Ishida Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masayoshi Nakajima
  • Patent number: 5646376
    Abstract: A portable aircraft weighing scale, comprising:(a) a base having load cell mounting structures;(b) a plurality of shear beam load cells mounted to the base via the mounting structures;(c) a platform for supporting an aircraft wheel or wheel set; and(d) a mechanism for mounting the platform to the load cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: Intercomp Company
    Inventors: William Kroll, Mark Browne, Tom Bartsch, Randie Evenson
  • Patent number: 5629498
    Abstract: Automated tracking devices for counting, sorting, weighing, and containing articles, such as sponges that contain fluids from patients undergoing surgery. Devices according to the present invention employ a suspended container for receiving and sorting the articles. The cumulative weight of the container contents is sensed accurately and registered reliably after an appropriate settling period via a load cell structure which is aimed at eliminating bending moments and non-vertical force components imposed by the container and its contents. Automatic sensing of the presence of the container allows continuous, rather than solely end-point, fluid monitoring during the surgical procedures and allows this monitoring to continue as successive containers are changed during an operation. Appropriate warnings occur after a predetermined number of articles have been introduced into the container, in order to indicate that a container change is due.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: Richard A. Pollock
    Inventors: Richard A. Pollock, Mahmood S. Kassam
  • Patent number: 5509317
    Abstract: A load cell mounting arrangement for a load cell having first and second ends and a pair of output terminals across which an output signal appears when the load cell is subjected to compressive stress exerted between the first and second ends. The mounting arrangement comprises first and second mechanical interface members for positioning between a first surface and a second surface between which the load cell is to measure compressive stress. The first and second mechanical interface members have first and second mechanical interface member interface surfaces, respectively. The first and second mechanical interface member interface surfaces contact the first and second surfaces, respectively, each substantially at a point. First and second coupling collars permit non-compressive relative movement between the first and second surfaces, respectively, and the first and second mechanical interface member interface surfaces, respectively, substantially without altering the load cell output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter L. Gross
  • Patent number: 5459289
    Abstract: A precision balance includes a load receiving member, a balance housing and a measuring cell connected to the load receiving member and the balance housing. The measuring cell is arranged between side portions of an intermediate support member and is fastened thereto in a frictionally engaging manner. The contact surfaces between the intermediate support member and the measuring cell can be produced with narrow tolerances in a simple manner, so that a screw connection between the intermediate support member and the measuring cell does not introduce significant distorting forces into the measuring cell. The measuring cell can be adjusted with the intermediate support member before being mounted in the balance housing. The later mounting of the measuring cell does not influence the adjustment because the intermediate arrangement of the intermediate support member disconnects the measuring cell from inaccuracies of the fastening surfaces on the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventor: Hans-Rudolf Burkhard
  • Patent number: 5446248
    Abstract: A center-lock portable truck scale has an end positioning post (4) between sides at ends of a truck scale and a central positioning post (8) positioned centrally in truck-scale sections. Positioning rods (5 and 9), preferably bolts, form positioning bumpers at adjustable distances from the lock posts. Hinges (23, 29 and 49) are employed to connect sides of the scale bridge (11, 12) so that large truck scale decks may be foldable for easy transportation to the site of installation. Scale loading weight is carried on a vertical load-cell pillar (75) that rests pivotally on a load button (77) that is positional in a load-button indentation in a top surface of strain-gauge beams (80). The central positioning post and positioning bolts prevent excessive end-to-end movement while the end positioning posts prevent excessive side-to-side or twisting movement of a scale unit, thereby positioning scale weight directly on load cells (3) in jarring and temperature-change use-conditions for more accurate weighing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: First-Weigh Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas F. Strasser
  • Patent number: 5308934
    Abstract: The instant invention is directed to a mounting device for a load cell scale that is a component of a high speed sheet processing system. The invention has particular utility in a mail processing machines which include the step of weighing mailpieces. The mounting device of the instant invention is one that provides reliability, ease of manufacture, and ease of assembly. In addition, isolation members are included that isolate the scale platform from vibrations caused by the scale's environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Assignee: Pitney Bowes Inc.
    Inventors: Carl A. Miller, Adonis A. Halaby
  • Patent number: 5250762
    Abstract: For measuring tensile force in a continuous strip or web, load cells are arranged between a bearing housing for a deflector roll, over which the web runs, and a fixed base. A load cell comprises a load cell housing and consists of two yokes (1, 2) facing the bearing housing and the base, respectively, and a force transducer which together with membranes (3 . . . 6) are arranged between the yokes to connect these together. At the end plates of the yokes, screw holes (8 . . . 15) are provided to attach the yokes to the bearing housing and the base, respectively. At each screw hole there is provided a gap (16) so that, around each screw hole, a tubular body is formed and that the plane outwardly-facing surfaces (17) of the bodies are plane-parallel and extend outside the otherwise plane outwardly-facing surfaces of the yokes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1993
    Inventors: Par Gustafsson, Ake Persson
  • Patent number: 5205369
    Abstract: A force measuring cell includes a force receiving member (4) in the form of a parallelogram type deviating member the opposed ends of which are connected between the weighing pan carrier and the housing of a weighing apparatus. A fastening member (8) is provided having a fastening portion (8a) adapted for removable connection with either the housing member or the pan carrier member, and a connecting portion (8b) adapted for connection with the deviating member, the fastening and connecting portions being decoupled by a narrow transition zone (8c), whereby the fastening force or stress is virtually isolated from the connecting area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Mettler - Toledo AG
    Inventor: Christiaan Neeleman
  • Patent number: 5203419
    Abstract: A postal type scale (20), such as an electronic scale, capable of weighing a plurality of different size packages (24, 34) comprises a weighing mechanism (26), a platform (22) for supporting a package (24, 34) thereon in a weighing relationship, and a movable weight display (30, 36) slidably mounted to the platform (22) and longitudinally extendable therefrom along a horizontal mounting surface (38) when the platform (22) is supported on the horizontal mounting surface (38). The weight display (30, 36) comprises a horizontal weight display (30, 30b), such as an LCD display (30b), which may be removably mounted to the horizontally movable display mounting member (36) for providing the display (30) at a position remote from the mounting member (36).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: Fairbanks, Inc.
    Inventor: Alec Douglas
  • Patent number: 5190117
    Abstract: A load cell supporting member includes a central portion formed to receive a load cell and to protect a load cell from overloading. A plurality of arms extends radially from the central portion. The supporting member is a single, integral piece of said material.A weighing scale includes a first supporting member, a load cell supported by the first supporting member. The scale also includes a second supporting member, that is identical to the first and supported by the load cell and is identical to the first supporting member. The second supporting member supports a scale platform.Another weighing scale includes three identical supporting members and the load cells. A first supporting member supports a first load cell. The first load cell supports a second supporting member, which supports a second load cell. The second load cell supports a third supporting member. The third supporting member supports a scale platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Assignee: Pitney Bowes Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald C. Freeman, Norman Lilly
  • Patent number: 5141066
    Abstract: In order to protectively support the weighing cell of electronic weighing apparatus within a housing and thereby isolate the weighing cell from external impact and shock forces, the weighing cell is mounted on the central portion of the relatively resilient printed circuit board of the electronic load measuring circuitry, which printed circuit board is supported at its edge or corner portions in spaced relation above the bottom wall of the weighing apparatus housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventor: Ernst Strickler
  • Patent number: 5119896
    Abstract: A load cell supporting member includes a central portion formed to receive a load cell and to protect a load cell from overloading. A plurality of arms extends radially from the central portion. The supporting member is a single, integral piece of said material.A weighing scale includes a first supporting member, a load cell supported by the first supporting member. The scale also includes a second supporting member, that is identical to the first and supported by the load cell and is identical to the first supporting member. The second supporting member supports a scale platform.Another weighing scale includes three identical supporting members and two load cells. A first supporting member supports a first load cell. The first load cell supports a second supporting member, which supports a second load cell. The second load cell supports a third supporting member. The third supporting member supports a scale platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Assignee: Pitney Bowes Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald C. Freeman, Norman Lilly
  • Patent number: 5105897
    Abstract: A base assembly for a beam balance instrument includes a box-like, open bottom base of lightweight sheet metal having an elongated slot in its upper wall, and a reinforcing strip or bar inlaid into the slot for rigidly supporting parts of the balance. The reinforcing strip is thicker and bulkier than the remainder of the base, and the fulcrum which pivotally supports the beam above the base is rigidly fastened on the strip, as is the sensor for detecting tilting of the beam in response to an applied force, and the bellows if the balance instrument is of the type used in measuring pressure variations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Assignee: Fluid Data Systems
    Inventor: Eugene A. Glassey
  • Patent number: 5072799
    Abstract: A load cell supporting member includes a central portion formed to receive a load cell and to protect a load cell from overloading. A plurality of arms extends radially from the central portion. The supporting member is a single, integral piece of said material.A weighing scale includes a first supporting member, a load cell supported by the first supporting member. The scale also includes a second supporting member, that is identical to the first and supported by the load cell and is identical to the first supporting member. The second supporting member supports a scale platform.Another weighing scale includes three identical supporting members and two load cells. A first supporting member supports a first load cell. The first load cell supports a second supporting member, which supports a second load cell. The second load cell supports a third supporting member. The third supporting member supports a scale platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1991
    Assignee: Pitney Bowes Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald C. Freeman, Norman Lilly
  • Patent number: 5038973
    Abstract: Vessel balance for bulk material having a tubular balance section for feed therethrough of bulk material. The balance is adapted during feed intervals of the bulk material to enable determination of the weight thereof. The section cooperates with a feed flap adjacent one of its ends to govern entry of the material into the section and has a closing member at an opposite end. The section and member are supported by at least two weight measuring elements carried by a fixed platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Gebruder Buhler, AG
    Inventor: Bruno Gmur