Digital Patents (Class 177/25.13)
  • Publication number: 20100263941
    Abstract: [Problems] To provide a system and a method for accurately measuring the weight of a portion of a human body. [Means for Solving the Problems] This system for measuring the weight of each of six body portions of a human body comprises support base provided for six body portions and supporting the body portions, six body portion measuring units each having a weight measuring part measuring the weight of the body portion and a data transmission-reception part transmitting and receiving data including data on the weight of the body portion measured by the weight measuring part, and a data processing unit transmitting control data to the six body portion measuring units and receiving the data on the measured weights of the body portions. The data processing unit comprises a means determining whether or not the total sum of the data on the measured weights of the six body portions matches the weight of the human body within a present allowable range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Tadao Kurata, Sumiko Kurata
  • Publication number: 20100252334
    Abstract: A weighing scale has a display unit for displaying the weight of an object loaded on a platform measured by a weight measurer, a communication unit for transmitting weight data to, or receiving from, another weighing scale, a determiner that determines whether the weighing scale is capable of communicating via the communication unit with another weighing scale, and a controller that, in a case in which a result of the determination by the determiner shows that the weighing scale is not capable of communicating with another weighing scale, controls the display unit to display weight data output by the weight measurer, and in a case in which a result of the determination by the determiner shows that the weighing scale is capable of communicating with another weighing scale, that transmits weight data to, or receives from, another weighing scale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: Tanita Corporation
    Inventor: Naoshi OSEKO
  • Publication number: 20100228522
    Abstract: An electronic balance 1 having a switching function for selecting and setting one measurement mode from among a number of measurement modes corresponding to the type of object to be measured and/or the type of measuring work and/or the situation in terms of the work environment, an applied function for selecting and setting one display method from among a number of display methods for the weight of an object to be measured, and a basic function for gaining results of measurement of an object to be measured on the basis of the set measurement mode and display method is provided with: a number of menu operation keys 72a to 72e with which an input operation for selecting and setting one measurement mode from among a number of measurement modes and an input operation for selecting and setting one display method from among a number of display methods are carried out; and a number of basic operation keys 71a to 71d with which an input operation for gaining results of measurement for an object to be measured on the
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: SHIMADZU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hiroshi Hamamoto
  • Publication number: 20100228224
    Abstract: Surgical fluid management systems and methods of operating surgical fluid management systems which may provide one or more functions associated with suction, irrigation, distention, deficit monitoring, infusion, fluid warming, and the like. Some example embodiments may include infra-red lamps arranged to heat fluid flowing through a disposable cartridge. Some example embodiments may provide a three-dimensional fluid path through the cartridge and/or multi-stage heating capabilities. Some example fluid management systems may be selectable between pressure control and flow control modes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventors: Kenneth R. Pyles, Jeffrey B. Williams
  • Publication number: 20100228521
    Abstract: An electronic balance 1 is provided with a measured weight storage controlling portion 33 for storing measured weight in sequence, a measuring mode storing portion 42 for storing a number of measuring modes where different averaging parameters are preset, an input portion for a measuring mode 72 which carries out an input operation for selecting one measuring mode from among a number of measuring modes, and an average weight display controlling portion 31 for calculating the average weight by averaging the number of measured weight on the basis of the averaging parameter in the measuring mode and displays the average weight in a display portion 60, and is characterized in that the electronic balance is further provided with an input portion 71 for making a modification which carries out an input operation for making a modification on the averaging parameter in the selected measuring mode, and the average weight display controlling portion 31 calculates the average weight by averaging the number of measured we
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2007
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: SHIMADZU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hiroshi Hamamoto
  • Publication number: 20100191978
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the parameterization of scales which have a weighing belt for the weighing of products in a conveying process, wherein a teach procedure and subsequently a verification procedure take place after the input of product-specific data. The invention furthermore relates to a method for the operation of scales parameterized in this manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: BIZERBA GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Helmut Pfau
  • Publication number: 20100161268
    Abstract: Device for vibration compensation of weighing sensor weight signals, with a weighing signal branch having an analog/digital converter unit to which a weighing sensor analog weighing signal is fed, and that generates a digital weighing signal that contains discrete sample values of the sampled analog weighing signal of the weighing sensor. At least one compensation signal branch has an analog/digital converter unit to which an acceleration sensor analog noise quantity is fed for detecting a specified acceleration noise quantity, and that generates a digital noise quantity signal containing discrete sample values of the acceleration sensor analog noise quantity signal. The digital noise quantity signal is fed to an adaptive digital filter unit. An addition unit sums the signal values of the digital weighing signal and the signal values (carrying a negative sign) for the digital noise quantity signals fed to it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Jan Gottfriedsen, Alexander Schulzki
  • Publication number: 20100147598
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for dynamically check weighing objects (18a-c) that are guided across a weight-sensitive zone (14) of a weighing device (12) by a conveying mechanism (20a-c). At regular intervals, the weight-sensitive zone (14) supplies individual measured weight values (E1, . . . , En) from which resulting weight values are derived in a digital evaluation unit (16) by calculating mean values. The evaluation unit (16) includes a plurality of cascading mean value filters (24a-e) that have different filter lengths which are varied by a common scaling value in accordance with a spatial dimension of the objects (18a-c).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: Sartorius AG
    Inventor: Alfred KLAUER
  • Publication number: 20100147597
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for dynamically checking the weight of objects (18a-c) which are guided across a weight-sensitive zone (14) of a weighing device (12) at an adjustable conveying rate by a conveying mechanism (20a-c). At regular intervals, the weight-sensitive zone (14) supplies individual measured weight values (E1, . . . , En) from which resultant weight values are derived in a digital evaluation unit (16) by averaging. The evaluation unit (16) includes a plurality of cascaded averaging filters (24a-e) which have different filter lengths that are varied by a common scaling factor depending on the conveying rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: Sartorius AG
    Inventor: Alfred KLAUER
  • Publication number: 20100116559
    Abstract: Removable luggage scale devices are disclosed herein that include: at least one measuring device, at least one gripping member coupled to the measuring device, at least one coupling unit, wherein the coupling unit couples the at least one measuring device to at least one piece of luggage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: Jerry Moon
  • Patent number: 7705249
    Abstract: Electronic scales having an integrated computer including a display for presenting information to a user, an input unit for entering selection data by a user, a memory for storing a plurality of activatable profiles as sets of parameter values for assignment to corresponding sets of parameters, and a data processing unit for controlling the display, the input unit, and the memory, and for determining and processing measured values in accordance with the current activated profile. The measured values are generated during a weighing operation by the user. To determine a profile, a user is requested, over a plurality of successive steps, to select one of several options presented by the display, the combination of the options presented in a step being dependent on the selection made in the preceding step. Then, during the weighing operation, the user is requested, again, over a plurality of successive steps, to perform an action presented by the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Rainer Rindermann, Jan Von Steuben, Thomas Pertsch, Apolonija Kordes
  • Publication number: 20100089152
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a portable measuring vessel with a removably attached digital measuring device. The digital measuring device includes one or more load cells, one or more processors, an input unit, and an output unit. Preferably the input unit is one or more finger-actuatable switches and the output unit is a visual display, such as an LCD. The processor is connected to the input, output, load cell and power source, thereby making a convenient, portable and easily used product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: Priority Worx, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Kolada, Chris Daniels, J. Ryan Eder
  • Publication number: 20100084199
    Abstract: A multiple force-measuring device, especially a multiple weighing device has at least two force-measuring modules. Each force-measuring module includes a force-measuring cell and a power delivery means. The power delivery means of at least one of the force-measuring modules in this arrangement is connected, directly or through a junction element, to a control cable that is connected to a power supply unit. The force-measuring modules are connected directly to each other through a module-connection cable that transfers electrical power therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Cyrill Bucher, Aaron Skidmore, Douglas Bliss, Markus Uster
  • Patent number: 7692106
    Abstract: An electronic scale having an integrated computer with an input unit for entering selection data, a memory for storing a plurality of parameter values, which can be assigned to function-specific parameters dependent on the entered selection data, a data processing unit for executing weighing applications dependent on a subset of the function-specific parameters and at least one interface for interacting with mechanical and/or electronic components dependent on a subset of function-specific parameters. A plurality of different profiles (24; 24?) can be stored as individual parameter value sets to adapt to user-specific and/or application-specific requirements. Selecting a specific profile (24; 24?) causes a joint assignment of the values contained therein to the corresponding parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Rainer Rindermann, Jan Von Steuben, Thomas Pertsch, Apolonija Kordes
  • Publication number: 20100078228
    Abstract: A force measuring device, especially a weighing device, has at least one force-measuring module that includes a force-measuring cell, a communication means, a terminal and at least one communication line, through which communication signals are transmitted between the terminal and the communication means. In a method for determining the condition of such a device, at least one voltage present at the communication line or at the communication means is measured. The measured value, or a processed result therefrom, are transmitted through the communication line to the terminal. A parameter representing the condition of the force-measuring device is determined from the measurement value, or the processed result, in an accurate and simple manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Christoph Trautweiler, Douglas Bliss
  • Publication number: 20100051353
    Abstract: A device for monitoring growth of a child includes a platform to support the child during a measurement of weight, a transducer coupled to the platform to generate an indication of the weight of the child, a controller configured to determine a timing of the weight measurement, a computer-readable medium in communication with the controller and configured to store data representative of the weight indication and the measurement timing, and a data output port coupled to the controller. The controller is further configured to incorporate the data in a data compilation representative of a set of measurements of the growth of the child for exportation of the data compilation via the data output port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Swan
  • 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: 7633018
    Abstract: A method is disclosed to operate and control a balance which has a control unit that is operable to execute an operating- and/or applications program and is equipped for this task with a processor and a memory unit. The balance also has at least one entry device to give command signals to the control unit. The control unit uses the command signals given by the entry device to control one of at least two function modules that are assigned to the entry device by the control unit dependent on the operating status of the operating and/or applications program. The entry device can therefore control a plurality of function modules, hardware and/or software modules, e.g., for the opening and closing of the doors of the weighing compartment, the zeroing of the balance, the setting of tare, or the printing of the measurement results. The assignment of the function modules to the entry device is signaled to the user by an indicating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Roger Leisinger, Hansruedi Künzi
  • Publication number: 20090301790
    Abstract: An electronic scale having a measuring sensor (1 . . . 16), a digital signal processing unit (18), a digital display (19), a bubble level (20), which includes a container (21) that is partially filled with a liquid (22) while forming a gas bubble (23), and circuit component or program routine in the digital signal processing unit (18) for detecting a displacement of the gas bubble (23). An additional circuit component or program routine detects the diameter of the gas bubble (23). The diameter of the gas bubble changes due to vertical vibrations of the scale. The signal from the measuring sensor (1 . . . 16) falsified by vibrations can thus be corrected by the digital signal processing unit (18) by calculation, making use of the diameter signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Gerd FREYDANK, Winfried GRAF, Christian OLDENDORF
  • Publication number: 20090288887
    Abstract: An electronic scale serves to weight a food and provide information through a screen. The information comprises a category and a name of the food, and calories as well as nutritional elements contained in the food of such weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventor: Jiunn-rong Chen
  • Patent number: 7620521
    Abstract: Arrangement and method for classifying an occupying item in a seat includes at least one force sensor arranged to measure the force applied to the seat at time intervals, and a processor coupled to the force sensor(s) for receiving the force measurements therefrom. The processor analyzes the force measurements from each force sensor over time to discern patterns in the force measurements and analyzes any discerned pattern to determine if it approximates a known pattern indicative of an animate object or an inanimate object. The processor may be trained to discern patterns providing information about the occupying item by conducting tests in which different occupying items are placed in the seat and measurements of the force applied to the seat are obtained by the force sensor, before, during and after placement of the occupying item in the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Automotive Technologies International, Inc.
    Inventors: David S. Breed, Wilbur E. DuVall, Wendell C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7613575
    Abstract: The output signal from a measuring transducer in a force-measuring device is processed by filtering a measuring signal (ms), representing a load that is acting on the transducer, to suppress interfering signal portions caused by extraneous influences including mechanical disturbances, or changes of the load. The measuring signal (msE) passes through a first delay element (141A) to a measurement value unit (145) which holds the value of the currently received measuring signal (msE), a mean value based on the most recent values of the measuring signal, or an expected value (msE) based on the most recent values of the measuring signal. The measuring signal (msE) is monitored for signal disturbances using a first detector module (151). After detection, a switching means (142) is actuated and the output signal (msX) of the measurement value unit is processed further, if applicable, and sent to the output end of the device, instead of the currently received measuring signal (msE).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Marc Nussbaumer, Daniel Reber
  • Patent number: 7605332
    Abstract: A fish weighing device configured to be integral with the lid of a compartment in a fishing craft. The device includes a fishing rod locker lid configured to provide access to a fishing rod locker in a fishing boat, a fish holding compartment configured to receive a fish, the fish holding compartment being integrated into the lid of the fishing rod locker, and a fish weight measurement device configured to measure the weight of a fish placed within the fish holding compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventor: John Winkler
  • Publication number: 20090242279
    Abstract: An electronic scale having a measuring sensor (1 . . . 16), a digital signal processing unit (18), a digital display (19) and an inclinometer (40). The inclinometer derives a signal for the tilt of the scale from the difference of at least two signals. The digital signal processing unit (18) is provided with an additional circuit component or program routine that adds the two signals and, by way of this cumulative signal, corrects the vibration-distorted signal of the measuring sensor (1 . . . 16). A plurality of inclinometers enables the simultaneous detection of momentary gravitational acceleration. For example, in an electric bubble level, the gas bubble moves out of place when tilted and the diameter of the gas bubble changes when the gravitational acceleration changes. The scale thus provides an additional signal for correcting the influence of disturbances with minimum complexity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Gerd FREYDANK, Winfried Graf, Christian Oldendorf
  • Patent number: 7592553
    Abstract: A medicine weighing device that includes, not only a weighing function, but also an inspection function. The medicine weighing device has a compact structure capable of displaying a weighed value and an inspection result on the same screen, and which can execute inspection according to the input state of weighing conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Yuyama Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Yuyama, Keita Yasuoka, Akitomi Kohama, Atsushi Kawano
  • Patent number: 7592552
    Abstract: A weighing device for a combination scale includes a force-sensing unit for converting a weight acting on a load sensor of the force-sensing unit into an analog electrical signal and an analog/digital converter to which the analog electrical signal is fed and which converts the analog electrical signal into a digital electrical signal. the weighing device further includes a controller for controlling the analog/digital converter and for additional digital processing of the digital values of the digital electrical signal fed to it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Wipotec Wiege- und Positioniersysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Theo Düppre
  • Patent number: 7589287
    Abstract: A carrier of loose items that a user can employ with a quick glance to determine whether the weight balance displayed on a screen indicates carried items in greater, lesser, or equivalent quantity than previously recorded. A physical inventory of carried items is avoided when the display screen shows a zero weight measurement. However, a non-zero display screen measurement provides time-saving information about the size of items missing or acquired. The carrier's upper portion, which detaches from a memory scale, is readily exchanged with other carriers of differing size and shape. Audible signaling means informs the user at the time the carrier/scale combination is lifted from a support surface if any items are missing or have been inadvertently acquired, to prevent a user from leaving or acquiring valuable tools/items. Other applications include, but are not limited to, transporting supplies relating to fishing, jewelry making, crafts, gardening, and the medical field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventor: Patrick Allen Hargabus
  • Patent number: 7586049
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the weight of items on a conveyor includes a scale that generates a first signal corresponding to the weight of the items. A movable platform transports the items to the scale and generates a second signal corresponding to position of the items in relation to the scale. A dimensioner examines the items and generates a third signal representative of whether the items are singulated or nonsingulated. A processor receives the second and third signals and determines whether to associate the first signal with information stored in memory about a particular item based upon whether the particular item is singulated or nonsingulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Accu-Sort Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Wurz
  • Publication number: 20090205875
    Abstract: A portable scale includes an instrumentation housing having a plurality of sides, a carrying handle disposed on the instrumentation housing and configured for carrying the portable scale, a platform assembly spaced from the instrumentation housing for movement during a weight measurement via application of a load, and a plurality of disparate accessory components configured to facilitate the weight measurement. Each respective component of the plurality of disparate accessory components is detachably secured to a respective side of the plurality of sides of the instrumentation housing such that the weight measurement can be performed with one or more of the plurality of disparate accessory components attached to the instrumentation housing, and such that the portable scale can be carried via the handle with and without any number of the plurality of disparate accessory components attached to the instrumentation housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: Rubbermaid Incorporated
    Inventor: Christopher J. Claypool
  • Publication number: 20090205876
    Abstract: A digital scale includes an instrumentation unit to which a load is applied for a weight measurement, and a user interface unit communicatively coupled with the instrumentation unit to receive an indication of the weight measurement. The user interface unit includes a housing releasably secured to the instrumentation unit via a magnetic engagement. A housing of the instrumentation unit has an exterior surface shaped to complement the housing of the user interface unit to position the user interface unit relative to the instrumentation unit and facilitate the magnetic engagement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: RUBBERMAID INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Christopher J. Claypool
  • Patent number: 7563994
    Abstract: An electronic scale (1) with a display unit (9), at least one control button (11 . . . 14), a digital signal processing unit (5) and a digital interface (7) to a higher-level electronic data processing (EDP) system (15). The digital signal processing unit (5) has an activatable switch or program part for locking the scale. This switch or part releases the display of the weighing result only for as long as the higher-level EDP system (15) communicates with the scale (1) and locks the display at other times. The activation of the switch or part for the locking process is stored in a power-failure-proof memory (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Bertoldi, Klaus Fuelscher, Rainer Kirchhoff, Swen Weitemeier
  • Publication number: 20090178857
    Abstract: A medicine weighing device that includes, not only a weighing function, but also an inspection function. The medicine weighing device has a compact structure capable of displaying a weighed value and an inspection result on the same screen, and which can execute inspection according to the input state of weighing conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Yuyama, Keita Yasuoka, Akitomi Kohama, Atsushi Kawano
  • Patent number: 7557310
    Abstract: A system and method for estimating dynamic quantities is provided. The system includes an electronic identification recognition apparatus, a weight measuring apparatus, and a computing apparatus. The electronic identification recognition apparatus can recognize an electronic identification for a corresponding item placed into the system, and the weight measuring apparatus measures a total weight of all items that it carries. The computing apparatus is coupled to the weight measuring apparatus and the electronic identification recognition apparatus, for receiving the total weight, such that the quantity of the item can be estimated and recorded by using the total weights obtained respectively before and after the item is stored or removed and a recognition result from the electronic identification recognition apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Yu-Sheng Lai, Je-Wei Liang
  • Patent number: 7547851
    Abstract: A digital scale includes a display and buttonless top platform. Contact with the scale platform alone allows a user to power the scale, identify a user of the scale, determine a mode of operation of the scale, and to establish a reminder. The scale has a first mode of operation displaying a reading of the user's weight. The scale has a second mode of operation providing a display of the user's current weight, a delta or differential weight with the most recent recorded weight measurement and if the data is available, additional deltas for weight measurements taken up to one year earlier. The scale has a third mode of operation in which it provides a reminder for tasks to be undertaken by a user within a specified time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Anson Wong
  • Patent number: 7541547
    Abstract: An automated identification, weight measurement and data reporting system that allows users to have their weight measured at a remote location and sent electronically to a data center. The invention can use biometric identification technology to confirm the identity of the user at the time of the measurement of the user's weight. The user's body weight may be measured via an electronic scale connected to the biometric identification device. The measurement data is then sent via a network (such as the Internet) to a central database. This secure weight measurement data is then used to offer incentives to individuals to lose weight. The more weight an individual loses, the larger the earned incentives. The invention also includes programs to measure health functions and to provide incentives to improve their health including body fat reduction, quitting smoking, reducing their blood pressure, or other health function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Incentahealth, LLC
    Inventors: Todd J. McGuire, Jack D. Rule
  • Patent number: 7518068
    Abstract: Systems and methods for automatically reordering parts are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system includes a tray adapted to support parts, and a resilient member operatively engaged with the tray that flexes according to the weight of parts stored on the tray. A switch generates a signal when the amount of parts on the tray is less than a predefined amount. A central processing unit coupled to the switch receives the signal generated by the switch and automatically reorders parts based on the received signal from the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Craig B. Green
  • Publication number: 20090090564
    Abstract: A scale can include a low capacity sensing mechanism operatively coupled to a load, wherein the low capacity sensing mechanism may detect movement of the load. A transfer mechanism can be operatively coupled to the low capacity sensing mechanism, wherein the low capacity sensing mechanism may enable the scale to weigh both relatively heavy loads and relatively light loads to a minor division resolution associated with the low capacity sensing mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: Neopost Technologies
    Inventor: Roman Kresina
  • Publication number: 20090071729
    Abstract: Electronic scales having an integrated computer including a display for presenting information to a user, an input unit for entering selection data by a user, a memory for storing a plurality of activatable profiles as sets of parameter values for assignment to corresponding sets of parameters, and a data processing unit for controlling the display, the input unit, and the memory, and for determining and processing measured values in accordance with the current activated profile. The measured values are generated during a weighing operation by the user. To determine a profile, a user is requested, over a plurality of successive steps, to select one of several options presented by the display, the combination of the options presented in a step being dependent on the selection made in the preceding step. Then, during the weighing operation, the user is requested, again, over a plurality of successive steps, to perform an action presented by the display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Rainer RINDERMANN, Jan Von Steuben, Thomas Pertsch, Apolonija Kordes
  • Publication number: 20090057035
    Abstract: When a human subject presses a start switch S and stands on a platform (10) of a measurement apparatus (100), the weight of the human subject is measured, and the measurement result is stored as measurement data xi (i is a natural number) in a rewritable memory (150c). When the start switch S and a difference key F are pressed, measurement data xi stored in rewritable memory (150c) is read so as to be displayed temporarily on a display unit (120). Display unit (120) changes to a zero display, “0.00 kg”, and when the human subject stands on platform (10), the current weight of the human subject is measured. A CPU (110) uses a calculation equation read from a ROM (150b) to execute a difference output process in which the difference between the measurement data showing the current weight and measurement data xi read from rewritable memory (150c) is output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Applicant: TANITA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Naoshi OSEKO
  • Publication number: 20090038859
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is that any of mass load, viscous load and viscoelasticity load is measured separately from other load whereby properties of the substance to be measured are able to be measured correctly. The characteristic feature of the present invention is that, in a method where property of a substance contacting to a quartz oscillator equipped with electrodes on both sides of a quartz plate is measured on the basis of the changes in frequency of the above quartz oscillator, the property of the above substance is measured using at least two frequencies among the n-th overtone mode frequency (n=1, 3, 5, . . . (n=2k+1)) of quartz oscillator when voltage is applied between the above electrodes and using frequencies F1, F2 (F1<F2) giving one half of the maximum value of conductance near the resonant point by each frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2006
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventors: Atsushi Itoh, Motoko Ichihashi
  • Publication number: 20090008156
    Abstract: An electronic scale having an integrated computer with an input unit for entering selection data, a memory for storing a plurality of parameter values, which can be assigned to function-specific parameters dependent on the entered selection data, a data processing unit for executing weighing applications dependent on a subset of the function-specific parameters and at least one interface for interacting with mechanical and/or electronic components dependent on a subset of function-specific parameters. A plurality of different profiles (24; 24?) can be stored as individual parameter value sets to adapt to user-specific and/or application-specific requirements. Selecting a specific profile (24; 24?) causes a joint assignment of the values contained therein to the corresponding parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Rainer RINDERMANN, Jan Von Steuben, Thomas Pertsch, Apolonija Kordes
  • Patent number: 7472031
    Abstract: A product with a transponder is conveyed along a measurement line of a weighing device and an actual weight value is determined. An exchange of data with the transponder and weighing system enable automatic adjustment of the weighing system for a specified product type and/or sorting of the product based on comparisons of the actual weight value with a target weight value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo Garvens GmbH
    Inventor: Nikolaos Georgitsis
  • Publication number: 20080314648
    Abstract: A biometric apparatus includes a weight measuring unit having a predetermined zero-point for measuring a load applied to a platform provided on a body of the biometric apparatus and outputting a load signal which indicates the load; a detecting unit for detecting the state of installation of the biometric apparatus and outputting a detection signal indicating the same; and a control unit connected to the weight measuring unit and the detecting unit for determining whether or not the state of installation is suitable for the zero-point reset of the weight measuring unit on the basis of the detection signal and whether or not the load signal is stabilized, and the zero-point reset is carried out when the control unit determines that the state of installation is suitable for carrying out the zero-point reset for the weight measuring unit and the load signal from the weight measuring unit is stable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventors: Shun Suzuki, Masaki Yoshizawa, Kazuyasu Koyama, Kosei Fukada
  • Patent number: 7465272
    Abstract: A vehicle has an onboard dieters self acquiring overweight prevention system which they can utilize a weighing device connected to the seat of the driver or passenger and a further weighing device upon which the feet may be placed. The vehicle computer can be programmed with a weight-trend analyzer routine predicting overweight or obesity condition and capable of automatically warning the person and a healthcare worker of the condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Yefim Kriger
  • Patent number: 7459644
    Abstract: Disclosed is a digital measurement apparatus including data capture means operable to continuously capture digital data about a target measurement item, validity determination means operable to compare the captured data with a reference value so as to determine whether all of the captured data are valid, and measurement-value calculation means operable, when all of the captured data are determined to be valid, to calculate a measurement value in accordance with the valid data, which is characterized by further comprising reference-value change means operable to change the reference value. The digital measurement apparatus of the present invention makes it possible to perform a speedy measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Tanita Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroki Kenmochi
  • Publication number: 20080289882
    Abstract: This invention discloses a method and apparatus for measuring the weight of a CNC workpiece. As the weight of the workpiece on a loading platform increases, the loading of a driving module which drives the loading platform in constant speed increases accordingly. On the contrary, as the weight of the workpiece on the loading platform decreases, the loading of the driving module which drives the loading platform in constant speed also decreases. This invention determines the weight of the workpiece on the loading platform by measuring the electrical signal which drives the driving module and utilizing a calibration curve data in a preconfigured database.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Applicant: CHUNG YUAN CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Shih-Ming Wang, Ming-Hua Li
  • Publication number: 20080236901
    Abstract: An electronic scale (1) with a display unit (9), at least one control button (11 . . . 14), a digital signal processing unit (5) and a digital interface (7) to a higher-level electronic data processing (EDP) system (15). The digital signal processing unit (5) has an activatable switch or program part for locking the scale. This switch or part releases the display of the weighing result only for as long as the higher-level EDP system (15) communicates with the scale (1) and locks the display at other times. The activation of the switch or part for the locking process is stored in a power-failure-proof memory (21).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: Sartorius AG
    Inventors: Jean-Claude BERTOLDI, Klaus FUELSCHER, Rainer KIRCHHOFF, Swen WEITEMEIER
  • Publication number: 20080223625
    Abstract: A medical scale for determining the weight of a person where the person is one of self-supported, partially self-supported, and supported by a support device, such as a wheelchair. In some embodiments, the scale is provided with wheels to be portable. Also, some scales can be folded, pivoted, or adjusted into a more compact structure to be moved or stored. Some embodiments include an interface that can be swivelable and/or pivotable to allow the display to be viewed from a variety of directions. Some embodiments can also communicate with a network. The scale can also have individual adjustable load cells. The scale can also be configured to accept a Swipe card, smart card, or light pen to match patient identification with a measured weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: Matthew H. Lawler, Paul D. Nizzere, Theron Kotze
  • Publication number: 20080179110
    Abstract: A measurement device and method that in one aspect determines and displays percentile information relating to growth indices, such as BMI, weight-for-length, and weight-for-height, based on a subject's age and gender. The device and method may also provide classification information, such as whether the percentile information is considered to be, for example, below normal, normal, above normal, or far above normal. The device and method may additionally indicate, for example, the normal range of the subject's weight based on the subject's height, the subject's height based on the subject's weight and the normal range of BMI based on the subject's age and gender. In still another aspect, the device and method may indicate predictive values of the subject's future weight, height, BMI or head circumference based on the subject's present measurement values and growth percentiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: John Y. Chai
  • Patent number: 7405368
    Abstract: The invention relates to control scales whereon the weight of products (14) is determined in a dynamic manner during the transport thereof on a weighing strip (4) by means of filtering weight values detected during said transportation. According to the invention, said scales comprise an optimisation device which automatically determines the optimum length of filtering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo Garvens GmbH
    Inventors: Harald Beck, Rolf Kreimeyer