Abstract: A safety driving system of a display device includes a display panel including at least one conductive detection line, the conductive detection line extending in a predetermined area of the display panel and being configured to detect voltage variation according to damage in the predetermined area, a panel detector configured to apply a reference voltage to one end of the detection line, to receive an output voltage corresponding to the reference voltage through the detection line from another end of the detection line, to compare the received output voltage with a predetermined normal voltage range, and to generate and output a detection result signal, and a controller configured to provide a detection set value for driving the panel detector and to interrupt the driving of the display panel when the output detection result signal indicates that the display panel is damaged.

Abstract: A system for managing of bulk liquids and/or bulk solids for in-vitro diagnostics is disclosed. The system comprises a sample processing unit and a container unit for receiving a supply container supplying the sample processing unit with a bulk liquid/solid and/or a waste container receiving waste from the sample processing unit. The system further comprises a weight measuring device comprising a loading plate, a base and a force measuring cell. The force measuring cell comprises a sensor comprising a tensioned sensor wire. The loading plate is biased with respect to the base by a weight applied to the loading plate by a container and to transfer force to the force measuring cell. The transferred force causes a deformation of the force measuring cell and a change in tension of the sensor wire causing a change in vibrational frequency resulting in a signal indicative of the weight of the container.

Abstract: A loading system that includes a transporter and a loader or a transporter is provided. It includes a load-amount measuring unit installed on the transporter that measures a load amount of an object loaded on the transporter; a difference computing unit computing a difference between the load amount measured by the load-amount measuring unit when the object is loaded, and a load amount measured by the load-amount measuring unit after a measurement when the object is loaded and at a time of traveling; a storage unit storing a difference value data indicating the difference computed by the difference computing unit; a correcting unit correcting the load amount measured by the load-amount measuring unit when the object is loaded, based on a correction rule calculated based on the difference value data stored in the storage unit; and a display unit displaying a corrected load amount obtained by correcting the load amount.

Abstract: A method of calculating payload material weight is executable by an electronic controller of a machine and includes steps of determining a first force on first front and rear struts of the machine in an unloaded condition of the machine, and adjusting the first force based on at least one of an unloaded front strut friction force and an unloaded rear strut friction force to define an unloaded weight. The method also includes steps of determining a second force on the first front and rear struts in a loaded condition of the machine, and adjusting the second force based on at least one of a loaded front strut friction force and a loaded rear strut friction force to define a loaded weight. A payload material weight is calculated by the method based on a difference between the loaded weight and the unloaded weight.

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.

Abstract: A programmable controller implemented method of determining occurrence of bed loading events in a hauling machine. The method includes determining if the machine was stationary for a period, if the bed is in a loading position, other factors contributed to movement of the machine, calculating a bounce amplitude based upon a filtered machine accelerometer signal, comparing the amplitude with a constant reflecting a minimum amplitude, and identifying a loading event for an amplitude greater than the constant, if the machine has been stationary for a given period, the bed in a loading position, and no other factors caused machine movement.

Abstract: The Kellams Receptacle Scale, is a wheeled scale that weighs the contents loaded into industrial fifty five gallon receptacles. The scale emits an audible warning when weight exceeds a preset amount. A side panel comprises is a small liquid crystal display or LCD screen that shows the amount of weight measured. Next to this screen are directional buttons to preprogram the present invention with an acceptable weight.

Abstract: Force and location sensing systems and methods are disclosed. A method comprises bending a L-beam at an initially unknown location on a force-supporting portion of the L-beam, the L-beam substantially having a tension side and a compression side, measuring a first local stress at a first location on the tension side, measuring a second local stress at a second location on the tension side, measuring a third local stress at a third location on the compression side, and measuring a fourth local stress at a fourth location on the compression side. A weight-sensing storage system capable of tracking removed items is disclosed with a product image captured via a camera, a plurality of sensors on an L-beam, a first signal from the plurality of sensors indicating a first state prior to change of the product image, and a second signal indicating lower strain on the L-beam than the first signal.

Abstract: A weight measuring apparatus can ensure safety even if a trouble or deterioration of measurement accuracy occurs. The weight measuring apparatus (10) measures a weight of fluids and includes the followings. A first arm (110) has a first fitting (111) to fit a supply fluid container (20). A second arm (120) is connected to the first arm (110) and has a second fitting (121) to fit a filtrate container (30). A third arm (130) is connected to the second arm (120). A first measuring device (220) measures, as a first total weight, a total weight of the supply fluid container (20) and the filtrate container (30) based on a change of the second arm (120). A second measuring device (230) measures, as a second total weight, the total weight based on a change of the third arm (130). An alarm (300) alarms, when the first and second total weights have different values having a difference equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

Abstract: A POS-based checkout/scale system having (i) a bar code symbol reading subsystem for reading bar code symbols on products being purchased at a retail POS station, and (ii) a produce weigh scale having a weigh scale assembly for weighing one or more produce items on a weigh platter during produce weighing operations carried out at the time of checkout at said retail POS station. The system also includes an automatic produce weighing interference detection subsystem, supporting an IR-based light curtain about the weigh platter, automatically detects when any object is overhanging the weigh platter during produce weighing operations, and generates an alert signal when such conditions are automatically detected.

Abstract: A fluid intake measuring system for an infant comprises a change mat containing or carrying a weighing pad responsive to the weight of an infant placed on the change mat, and a display responsive to the weighing pad to indicate weight gain or fluid volume intake of an infant placed on the mat prior to and following feeding. In an embodiment the system is integrated into a carrying bag. The mat when folded into a storage condition lies against an outer side of the bag, and in its unfolded operative state extends outwardly from a lower part of the side of the bag.

Abstract: A transportable and repositionable portion control system 10 has an integral portion weight sensing system 90 configured for use with an optional fry ribbon bridge assembly 190 in a portion control method. The portion 14 is held in a portion indexing area, or corral 20 on an upper surface 22 of the scale 10. A portion indexing area 20 is defined between spaced, upstanding container supports 24 and 26 which diverge from one another in a “V” shape and the spacing between the rails is selected to allow a selected variety of known containers such as a cup to be placed on surface 22 between the rails to ensure that the carton is properly located for the weight measurement that is to be carried out by the scale 10.

Abstract: The disclosed systems and methods allow the weight and relative position of an object on a weighing surface to be simultaneously determined using a circuit that does not require pre-programed tables and that can be used in an analog or digital environment. One example system includes first, second, third, and fourth load cells having respective first, second, third, and fourth strain gauges. The strain gauges are configured to measure strain at the load cells caused by the object on the weighing surface. The system also includes circuitry configured to simultaneously determine weight and position of the object on the weighing surface, and a display that reports the weight of the object, a longitudinal position of the object, and a lateral position of the object.

Abstract: An interactive body weight scale is presented. The body weight scale may have computing and data communication ability to track a user's weight by connecting to a number of different electronic devices. The body weight scale is capable of recording an audio message, converting the audio message to message text, and transmitting the message to a remote social network. The scale may also receive message responses from the remote network and play the messages back based on whether a particular message is a positive message. A scale use indicator provides a reminder for a user to use the body weight scale.

Abstract: There is herein described apparatus capable of measuring load and load movement. More particularly, there is described apparatus capable of measuring both load and load movement using at least one sensor located between an upper and lower floor structure.

Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing erroneous weighing of items such as by detecting items extending beyond a periphery of a weigh platter whereby in one configuration, the system employs a light guide for routing a light beam to a detector operative to detect interruption of the beam due to an item encroaching upon or overhanging an edge of the platter. In another configuration, the scale includes a perimeter gap between the platter outer edge and scanner housing frame or checkout counter, a light beam directed angularly upward through the gap is partially obstructed by the frame and platter whereby light exits the gap forming a light plane, wherein an object placed on the platter extending across the gap intersects the light plane thus scattering light rays, some of which are sensed by a detector. Various indicators for alerting the operator of off-scale detection are also described.

Abstract: A boost converter is provided for tracking change in input voltage. The boost converter comprises at least one input for connection to a DC voltage source for supplying an input voltage; at least one output configured to supply an output voltage having a value that is greater than a value of said input voltage by at least a predetermined offset value; feedback means adapted to provide a feedback voltage, based on said output voltage, to a switching element of said boost converter, and a feedback voltage regulator means adapted to combine said feedback voltage with an input voltage characteristic so as to adjust said output voltage to be offset and proportional to said input voltage characteristic.

Abstract: Improved scales, and methods of use thereof, are provided. In one embodiment, a scale includes a platform for a user to step thereon, and a display adapted to display a weight of the user. The display is further adapted to display a message from one of a set of message categories at least when the user is on the platform.

Abstract: An electronic balance for clearly indicating the degree of precision to a target weight value is provided. A signal converter (2) converts an electronic signal outputted from a weight detecting circuit (1) into a digital signal. A computing section (3) converts the digital signal into a measured weight value Wx, reads a target weight value Wd (=W0±?W) determined by a target center value W0 and a tolerance ±?W inputted from a weight setting unit (5) through an interface (4), compares the measured weight value Wx and the target weight value Wd to obtain a difference, and transmits a signal for flashing or turning on the character display corresponding to the difference and the measured weight value Wx to a display unit (6) and transmits a sound signal to a buzzer (7).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an intelligent weight monitoring system and the method thereof. The system comprises a weight monitoring module, a signal processing module, and a comparison module. The weight measuring module measures at least a weight of a sickbed having a patient, and produces and transmits at least a signal according to the measured weight. The signal processing module processes the signal for producing and transmitting physiological data to the comparison module. The comparison module judges if the patient is abnormal according to the physiological data for producing an abnormal signal. The patient's family members or nurses can get the abnormal signal produced by the comparison module real-timely. Thereby, appropriate medical measures can be applied according to the abnormal signal.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for reducing erroneous weighing of items by detecting items extending beyond a peripheral edge of a weigh platter associated with a data reader. For example, in response to a weigh request a scale guard module acquires data indicative of whether an item extends between the weigh platter and another surface, compares the acquired data to reference data, and based on the comparison, determines whether an item extends off the weigh platter and thus on to another surface. The scale guard module may utilize non-electromagnetic compression waves, radio waves, a portion of a data reader's scan field to scan a set of patterns extending along at least one edge of the weigh platter, an imaging based scanner to capture an image of at least one edge of the weigh platter, light beams extending along at least one edge of the weigh platter, or any combination thereof.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention include a digital scale to measure a weight of a user who stands on the digital scale; and to calculate and convey to the user a dosage of a medicament which is appropriate for the user based on the measured user weight. The digital scale may determine the medicament dosage by performing a local query to a locally-stored medicament database which may be stored locally within the digital scale, and/or by performing a remote query to a remotely-stored medicament database which may be stored externally to the digital scale.

Abstract: The present invention is a weighing scale and system of weighing scales used to weigh a group of loads and determine which load is the lightest so it can be culled from the group. The weighing scales are most useful for use in fishing tournaments to ensure an angler has possession of the maximum total weight of fish possible.

Abstract: A commodity management apparatus includes, a weighing dish on which a container having a wireless tag attached thereto is mounted, an antenna which forms a region to communicate with the wireless tag from the side part of the weighing dish to the upper part of the weighing dish, a tag reader which contactlessly reads, via the antenna, data in the wireless tag attached to the container, a weight detection unit which detects the weight of the container mounted on the weighing dish, and an output control unit which outputs the weight of the container detected by the weight detection unit and the data in the wireless tag read by the tag reader.

Abstract: A server container includes a main body, at least one support plate, at least one angle detecting module, and an alarm module. The main body includes two opposite sidewalls. Two opposite edges of each support plate is interconnected the two sidewalls. Each angle detecting module includes an angle sensor and a controlling module. The angle sensor is correspondingly positioned on one support plate and for detecting a bending angle of the support plate and generating an angle signal corresponding to the bending angle. The controlling module is configured for comparing the voltage of the angle signal with a reference voltage which corresponds to a predetermined degree and generating a control signal upon a condition that the voltage of the angle signal is greater than the reference voltage. The alarm module is configured for generating an alarm upon a condition of receiving the control signal.

Abstract: A food portion preparation station has an integral portion weight sensing system configured for portion control. A fry ribbon with integral portion weight sensing includes a weight sensor and software to weigh individual orders of comestibles such as french fries in selected portion sizes and as the operator is adding comestibles to the container, an instant indication is provided on a display showing the operator that a full order or portion is delivered while avoiding unnecessary loss in excessive portions, thereby preserving the restaurant owner's profit margin. Comestibles are taken from a holding area and placed into a container having a selected portion size corresponding to an assigned weight. The fry ribbon structure incorporates the weight sensor and each weighed portion is moved laterally along the queue defined by ribbon area for retrieval and service to a customer.

Abstract: A personal alarm system can help a user to wake up in a preset time. A sensor can sense operations of the personal alarm system and output sense signals. A control unit can calculate a sum of the sense signals to obtain a number of operations of the personal alarm system, and stop an alarm from sounding in response to the sum of the sense signals meeting the condition to stop the alarm from sounding.

Abstract: A weight measuring apparatus can ensure safety even if a trouble or deterioration of measurement accuracy occurs. The weight measuring apparatus (10) measures a weight of fluids and includes the followings. A first arm (110) has a first fitting (111) to fit a supply fluid container (20). A second arm (120) is connected to the first arm (110) and has a second fitting (121) to fit a filtrate container (30). A third arm (130) is connected to the second arm (120). A first measuring device (220) measures, as a first total weight, a total weight of the supply fluid container (20) and the filtrate container (30) based on a change of the second arm (120). A second measuring device (230) measures, as a second total weight, the total weight based on a change of the third arm (130). An alarm (300) alarms, when the first and second total weights have different values having a difference equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

Abstract: Weight is used to help identify key and ring combinations authorized to certain persons. This is done by associating a weigh scale with each storage box for key and ring combinations, all of which have different total weights. The weights of all the key and ring combinations are registered with a computer, along with authentication and storage information. Then as key and ring combinations are removed from or returned to a storage box, they are weighed on scale 25 so that a computer can compare the scale weight with a registered weight. For any discrepancy, the computer can initiate one of many security actions.

Abstract: A playard set includes a playard and a placing mechanism. The playard has a first top corner structure and a second top corner structure. The placing mechanism is detachably disposed on the playard. The placing mechanism includes a first corner connecting structure and a second corner connecting structure, a support frame, a holding body, and a weight measuring device. The first and the second corner connecting structures are detachably disposed on the first and the second top corner structures of the playard respectively. The support frame is cantilevered from the first corner connecting structure. The holding body is suspended from the support frame for holding an infant. The weight measuring device is disposed on the first corner connecting structure and connected to the support frame for measuring a corresponding weight value when the holding body is pressed downward along with the support frame.

Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing erroneous weighing of items such as by detecting items extending beyond a periphery of a weigh platter whereby in one configuration, the system employs a light guide for routing a light beam to a detector operative to detect interruption of the beam due to an item encroaching upon or overhanging an edge of the platter. In another configuration, the scale includes a perimeter gap between the platter outer edge and scanner housing frame or checkout counter, a light beam directed angularly upward through the gap is partially obstructed by the frame and platter whereby light exits the gap forming a light plane, wherein an object placed on the platter extending across the gap intersects the light plane thus scattering light rays, some of which are sensed by a detector. Various indicators for alerting the operator of off-scale detection are also described.

Abstract: A weight sensor includes an arm having an end fixed to a pillar and a free end; a filtrate holder, a replacement fluid holder, and a dialysate holder provided at three locations of the arm along a longitudinal direction of the arm to hold respective substances; a first strain value sensor, a second strain value sensor, and a third strain value sensor each of which detects a strain value of the arm corresponding to a total weight of the substances held by the holders ranging from a holder proximate to the free end to a corresponding holder; and a weight calculation unit that calculates the total and each of the weights from the obtained detection results.

Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing erroneous weighing of items such as by detecting items extending beyond a periphery of a weigh platter whereby in one configuration, the system employs a light guide for routing a light beam to a detector operative to detect interruption of the beam due to an item encroaching upon or overhanging an edge of the platter. In another configuration, the scale includes a perimeter gap between the platter outer edge and scanner housing frame or checkout counter, a light beam directed angularly upward through the gap is partially obstructed by the frame and platter whereby light exits the gap forming a light plane, wherein an object placed on the platter extending across the gap intersects the light plane thus scattering light rays, some of which are sensed by a detector. Various indicators for alerting the operator of off-scale detection are also described.

Abstract: A scale assembly for weighing potentially hazardous materials comprise a containment deck designed to support a container from which materials are dispensed. The containment deck is preferably provided with sufficient storage capacity to capture spillage or leaks from the container and is supported on a low-profile platform supported in turn by load cells which generate signals indicative of the weight of the contents of the container and of any spillage within the containment deck. The containment deck is further equipped with a level detector typically positioned near the bottom of the deck for generating signals indicating the presence of leakage or spillage from the container.

Abstract: In an intellectual scale and a method of using same, a plurality of chemical management modes is provided. The intellectual scale can be switched to operate under any one of these chemical management modes to detect and measure a chemical to obtain the type and the weight of the chemical under the current chemical management mode, and record the obtained type and weight of the chemical, so that a user is able to know the use state of the chemical.

Abstract: A weighing apparatus, the weighing apparatus comprising a weighing portion including means for at least temporarily retaining an item to be weighed thereon, and a measurement portion in communication with the weighing portion, wherein the measurement portion comprises at least two indicators for indicating the weight of the item attached to the weighing apparatus, each of the indicators for indicating the weight of the item in different conditions.

Abstract: An alarm that uses a floor situated apparatus so that when the alarm goes off, the user must place their feet on the apparatus for a predetermined period of time to deactivate the alarm. The alarm sequence optionally provides that the apparatus cover may be translucent and/or transparent with a plurality of illuminable elements thereunder providing an alarm visual display. Also provided is a remote control for actuating a projected display of time onto the wall. The apparatus is also a scale for displaying the user's weight. The weight requirement for deactivating the alarm can extend from placing the feet on the apparatus while still in bed or require the user to stand on the apparatus for said period of time. Further provided for is the removal of the alarm clock portion from the floor apparatus.

Abstract: A portable scale including an inflatable bladder, an inflation port, a pressure sensor, and a display. The display indicates the weight of an object that may be placed upon the bladder based on the pressure inside the bladder that is sensed by the pressure sensor. The bladder may be deflated for easy transport or storage. The portable scale may further include a mechanical or electric pump for inflating the bladder. The pump may be turned off when the pressure inside the bladder reaches a predetermined level.

Abstract: A system for indicating the state of load of a vehicle having suspension components comprising: at least one transducer mountable on a single suspension component such that a signal relating to the angular deflection of the suspension component can be generated; and a controller configured to receive the signal and generate an output representative of the state of load of the vehicle.

Abstract: A forward-control counterweight fork-lift truck has a liftable and tiltable load-lifting device (1), a traction drive and operating drives for the movement of the load-lifting device (1). A calculation model (D) is stored in a control device (SE), to which directly or indirectly acting sensors (S) are connected for detecting the lifting load (L), the lifting height (H), the tilting angle (WM), the load torque (M), the direction of travel (R), the driving speed (V), and the steering angle (WL). The control device (SE) is designed to determine a driving and load state (Z) based on the detected physical variables (L, H, WM, M, R, V, WL) and the stored calculation model (D) and is operatively connected to the traction drive and the operating drives. Depending on the driving and load state (Z) determined, the operating speed, starting and braking acceleration, and driving speed are each reduced.

Abstract: An apparatus selectively heats or cools a beverage in a beverage container and indicates an amount of beverage in the beverage container. The apparatus comprises a portable housing having a door opening into a thermal chamber that is well suited for heating or cooling a 16-ounce (370 milliliter) beverage container. A control module controls a thermoelectric cooler to alternatively heat or cool the beverage. A scale weighs the beverage container and beverage and outputs a value related to a weight of beverage in the container. A display module optionally displays time and weight data related to beverage consumption. The thermoelectric cooler may optionally be controlled to reduce audible noise or to reduce energy consumption. A flexible arm and tubing clip hold a drinking straw in a convenient position for drinking. Power for the apparatus may optionally by supplied by an AC-to-DC converter with a 12 VDC output or from a 12-volt battery.

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.

Abstract: A pressure sensor portion includes a plurality of pressure sensors arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns inside a pressure-sensor-equipped carpet. The pressure sensor portion senses a pressure applied to the surface thereof and outputs a pressure value to a control portion. In an initial learning mode, a storage portion stores, as an initial value, the pressure value output from the pressure sensor portion. In a sensing operation mode, the control portion outputs to a modem portion a data signal indicating that an abnormal event is sensed, when the pressure value output from the pressure sensor portion is larger than the initial value stored in the storage portion by at least a prescribed threshold value. The modem portion superimposes the data signal received from the control portion on a power carrier wave (with a frequency of 50-60 Hz) and outputs the data signal to a power supply plug.

Abstract: A portable handheld electronic scale can weigh luggage and other objects. The scale includes an electronic weight-measuring device configured to measure and indicate the weight of the luggage. If the weight of the item of luggage exceeds the weight restriction of an airline, the traveler can reduce the weight of the item of luggage below the weight limit set by the airline by removing some of the contents of the item of luggage. Depending upon the particular embodiment of the scale, a user can comfortably hold the scale either parallel or perpendicular to the ground when the scale is used to lift the item of luggage off of a ground surface in order to obtain the weight of the item of luggage. An audible signal may be given when the measured weight is fixed on a display and/or when it is greater than a set limit.

Abstract: Described is a multi-optic scanner that can detect and/or measure weight placed on its vertical plate. In one embodiment, a portion of the vertical plate is positioned under a portion of a horizontal plate so that a force exerted on the vertical plate is transferred, whole or in part, to the horizontal plate. In alternate embodiments, one or more sensors are coupled to the vertical plate for detecting a force on the plate. The sensors can be coupled to an alert, such as an audible signal, to warn an operator of a misread weight.

Abstract: A scale has a base with strain gages to sense the weight of a user positioned on the base. A battery-powered processing system receives signals from the base and, through a wireless transmitter, sends the signals to a wall-mounted display that displays the user's weight.

Abstract: A work machine may have a payload overload control system. The system may include a payload carrier and a lift mechanism configured to raise and lower the payload carrier. The system may further include a payload monitor configured to determine a payload in the payload carrier. The system may also include a controller configured to compare the determined payload with a predetermined maximum payload and to selectively control lift of the payload carrier by the lift mechanism based on the comparison between the determined payload and the predetermined maximum payload.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a patient on a hospital bed includes load cells and a controller for detecting patient movement on, exit from, and impending exit from the hospital bed, including movement across or outside a virtual boundary or region located on the bed. The controller is configured to detect changes in the distribution of patient weight among the load cells. The controller is also configured to accommodate the installation or removal of medical equipment or other tare weights on the bed, head incline adjustment, and bed frame deformation or other changes in the system causing redistribution of weight among the load cells, while minimizing false alarms. A caregiver may select between various patient monitoring modes and remotely monitor patient movement relative to a reference load cell distribution, impending patient exit from the bed and patient exit from the bed.

Abstract: A seat weighing device wherein a load transmitting member for transmitting the seat load to a load sensor is formed without extremely high precision required, thereby enabling simple manufacturing of the load transmitting member. The seat weighing device includes a base having an arm for transmitting the seat load to a load sensor. The arm does not include a V-shaped portion, but includes only a single action portion. The single action portion is mounted to a sensor plate for mounting the load sensor so as to transmit the seat weight from the single action portion to the sensor plate. The arm includes only the single action portion, thereby suppressing irregularities in transmission of the load.

Abstract: A surgical sponge detection system includes a plurality of surgical sponges (2) having radio frequency identification tags (1) securely attached thereto and a non-optical hand-held reader (40) for detecting the sponges by detecting the tags (1). Also disclosed is a device (30) for automatically counting, weighing, and calculating blood loss contained within, soiled surgical sponges (2) which includes a cabinet with an opening (3) at the top through which sponges (2) are deposited, a reader (6) which scans each sponge (2) entered and determines sponge type from a tag (1) affixed to each sponge (2), and a disposable bag (8) into which the sponges (2) are deposited.