With Alarm Or Signal Patents (Class 177/45)
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Publication number: 20040084226Abstract: My invention is unique in that there is currently no device currently incorporated in automobiles, trains, planes, trucks, or vessels that automatically or manually provides occupants and/or cargo weight to the person(s) requiring such information. My invention incorporates a weighing system (digital or analog), in a transportation vehicle or vessel, that automatically or manually provides occupant(s) and/or cargo weight to the person(s) requiring such information for safety, law enforcement, personal, or any other use. For example: A manufactured Pick-up truck would offer the option of the owner(s) to automatically and/or manually, determine the weight of cargo and/or occupants, through digital and/or analog interpretation.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventor: Alfred Wright
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Publication number: 20040026134Abstract: The invention is a device and means that reduces the amount of overloading and under-loading of plastic grocery bags. A bag rack has a scale attached to its base with the scale connected to an indicator. The plastic bag rests on the scale which weighs the contents of the bag as they are being added. The indicator checks the weight of the contents of the bag. If the contents are under the targeted weight an indicator is lit, when the targeted weigh is reached another indicator is lit, and if a “not to exceed weight” is reached a warning indicator is lit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2002Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Dana D. Waggoner, Delbert J. Graf
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Patent number: 6617530Abstract: A scale with use reminder and weight change messages including a scale portion capable of accurately determining a weight of a person standing thereon. The scale portion includes a display for registering the weight of the person standing thereon. A central processing unit is disposed interiorly of the scale portion. The central processing unit is capable of storing the weight of the person standing on the scale portion on a first day and comparing it with the weight of the person standing on the scale portion on a next day and illustrating both on the display along with a difference between the two. The central processing unit includes programmed messages.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Inventor: Li Lin
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Patent number: 6590167Abstract: A device for weighing fluid includes a scale from which a fluid receptacle is suspended. Oscillations in the weight reading due to the pendulous motion of the receptacle are suppressed by a digital filter selected to have rejection notches at the frequencies of weight oscillation.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2001Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.Inventor: Christopher R. Clare
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Patent number: 6528739Abstract: A fluid sensor apparatus for monitoring fluid in a container. The fluid sensor apparatus comprises a housing having an upper hook extending from a top thereof to allow the housing to be suspended. A lower hook is telescopically received in the housing and extends from a bottom thereof. The lower hook is adapted for suspending a fluid container therefrom. The lower hook is movable relative to the housing. A cam member is located inside the housing and is movable relative thereto. The cam member is coupled to an upper end of the lower hook. The cam member has a stepped gradation. A biasing member is coupled between a lower shoulder of the cam member and the housing. The biasing member is adapted to apply a force against the cam member to cause the cam member to be biased upward relative to the housing to an upper position. A switch is coupled to the housing and has an actuator located in relation to the stepped gradation of the cam member.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2000Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: Northgate Technologies IncorporatedInventors: Albert Nowosielski, Russell Kuzelka, Charles Zander, David Cho, Raymond Jacobs
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Publication number: 20020170753Abstract: A device for weighing fluid includes a scale from which a fluid receptacle is suspended. Oscillations in the weight reading due to the pendulous motion of the receptacle are suppressed by a digital filter selected to have rejection notches at the frequencies of weight oscillation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2001Publication date: November 21, 2002Applicant: Ethicon, Inc.Inventor: Christopher R. Clare
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Publication number: 20020125051Abstract: A seat load measuring apparatus that can provide an accurate load output even when one or more sensors are exerted with a load in excess of its measurable load is provided. In a first instance, the output of each load sensor is read at Step S11. Subsequently, at step S12, whether or not there is any sensor whereof the output is in excess of the predetermined value is determined. If no output of these sensors is in excess of the predetermined value, it is regarded as normal, and the seat weight is obtained by summation of the outputs of the sensors at Step S13. When the output of any sensor exceeds the predetermined value, it is determined that an offset load is exerted thereon and thus the output of the sensor in question cannot be trusted. Therefore, the seat weight obtained immediately before the output of any of the sensors exceeds the predetermined value is regarded as the seat weight.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2002Publication date: September 12, 2002Applicant: TAKATA CORPORATIONInventor: Hiroshi Aoki
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Patent number: 6307163Abstract: A chemical mixer tank calibrator and a calibrating method for the same. The chemical mixer tank calibrator calibrates the weight of the mixer tank through a step motor. Once the chemical in the mixer tank is used up, the mixer tank can be automatically filled with chemical. Thus, the chemical in the mixer tank can adequately supply the buffer tank and the machine at any given time.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1999Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Assignee: United Microelectronics Corp.Inventors: Chien-Hsin Lai, Fu-Yang Yu
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Patent number: 6137066Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for weighing moving objects wherein at least two measurements are carried out with respect to each object by means of separate weighing machines (1, 2), whereupon an average value is computed by a calculating unit (5) as the result of the weighing operation. The invention is intended for weighing mobile objects, such as vehicles (10) designed for road or rail-bound traffic, or for in-line weighing operations to weigh products on a conveyor belt.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1999Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Assignee: Vagagenturen Wanelid ABInventor: Kent W.ang.nelid
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Patent number: 6121555Abstract: A fluid sensor apparatus for monitoring fluid in a container. The fluid sensor apparatus comprises a housing having an upper hook extending from a top thereof to allow the housing to be suspended. A lower hook is telescopically received in the housing and extends from a bottom thereof. The lower hook is adapted for suspending a fluid container therefrom. The lower hook is movable relative to the housing. A cam member is located inside the housing and is movable relative thereto. The cam member is coupled to an upper end of the lower hook. The cam member has a stepped gradation. A biasing member is coupled between a lower shoulder of the cam member and the housing. The biasing member is adapted to apply a force against the cam member to cause the cam member to be biased upward relative to the housing to an upper position. A switch is coupled to the housing and has an actuator located in relation to the stepped gradation of the cam member.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 1999Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: Northgate Technologies IncorporatedInventors: Albert Nowosielski, Russell Kuzelka, Charles Zander, David Cho, Raymond Jacobs
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Patent number: 6118082Abstract: A strain gauge sensor for measuring the unit weight of a moving sliver in a textile machine, comprising a support rigidly mounted on a sliver output end of the textile machine and a trumpet carried by the support for outputting a condensed sliver. At least one strain gauge is carried by the support and responsive to strain imposed on the support by movement of sliver through the trumpet. Electrical circuit is means carried by the support in electrically communicating relation to the strain gauge, and includes a power supply and amplifier carried by the electrical circuit on the support for outputting an excitation voltage and a Wheatstone bridge for receiving the excitation voltage from tile power supply and applying the excitation voltage to the at least one strain gauge, receiving a feedback signal from the strain gauge and outputting a control signal corresponding to the weight of the sliver passing through the trumpet.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1999Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Inventor: Paul Branch Bissette
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Patent number: 6066252Abstract: An alarm mechanism for use in chlorinators using chlorine tablets. The alarm mechanism signals when the chlorine tablets have dissolved to a pre-determined quantity and are in need of replenishment. The alarm mechanism has a low tablet register mechanism and an indicator. The low tablet register mechanism registers when the chlorine tablets dissolve to the pre-determined quantity, and preferably includes a counterweight mechanism calibrated and constructed so that it is activated when the chlorine tablets dissolve to the pre-determined quantity. The indicator indicates when the low tablet register mechanism registers that the chlorine tablets have dissolved to the pre-determined quantity. Preferably, the indicator includes a sensor and an alarm. The sensor senses when the register mechanism registers the dissolution of the chlorine tablets to the pre-determined quantity. The alarm, such as a horn or a light, signals the activation of the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 1998Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Inventor: Gary R. Reeves
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Patent number: 6025563Abstract: An apparatus and methods are provided for for indicating load weight of a vehicle. The apparatus preferably includes a fluid pressure sensor, such as a transducer, associated with a fluid pressure line of a vehicle for producing a plurality of fluid pressure signals representative of a corresponding plurality of load weights and a load weight indicating device responsive to the sensor for indicating a plurality of load weight levels. The load weight indicating device includes a memory for storing a calibration signal representative of a predetermined load weight limit level and a comparator in communication with the memory and the sensor for comparing the calibration signal to the plurality of fluid pressure signals. The device also preferably includes a plurality of indicators responsive to the comparator for indicating at least two load weight levels.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 1997Date of Patent: February 15, 2000Assignees: Vehicle Enhancement Systems, Inc., Creative Development, Inc.Inventors: Alan Lesesky, Michael Malecha, Robert Weant
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Patent number: 6018129Abstract: A strain gauge sensor for measuring the unit weight of a moving sliver in a textile machine, comprising a support rigidly mounted on a sliver output end of the textile machine and a trumpet carried by the support for outputting a condensed sliver. At least one strain gauge is carried by the support and responsive to strain imposed on the support by movement of sliver through the trumpet. Electrical circuit is means carried by the support in electrically communicating relation to the strain gauge, and includes a power supply and amplifier carried by the electrical circuit on the support for outputting an excitation voltage and a Wheatstone bridge for receiving the excitation voltage from the power supply and applying the excitation voltage to the at least one strain gauge, receiving a feedback signal from the strain gauge and outputting a control signal corresponding to the weight of the sliver passing through the trumpet.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1998Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Assignee: M & M Electric Service Co., Inc.Inventor: Paul Branch Bissette
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Patent number: 5994650Abstract: In order to increase safety of lift trucks, a weight indication for the driver is provided so that the driver may know how heavy a load he is handling,. This weight indication is obtained by measuring the current to the motor of the hydraulic pump. In order to eliminate the risk that monetary variations may result in faulty measurements preferably a mean value of current is taken for a certain time or the value of the measured current is added during a fixed time interval. Obtained values are then multiplied by a conversion factor so that the weight in, for instance, kilograms is obtained and delivered to a suitable display device. Obtained values also may be used to provide a warning by sound or light should the load exceed the maximum allowed.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 1997Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Assignee: BT Industries ABInventors: Lars Eriksson, Kurt-Ove Stenberg
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Patent number: 5986220Abstract: A deadweight calculating apparatus including a deadweight calculating section for calculating deadweight of a vehicle provided with a start assisting unit for urging and pressing drive wheels to a road surface in response to signals output from sensors arranged to measure loads and attached to the vehicle. The apparatus further includes an assisting operation detection section for detecting whether or not the drive wheels are being urged and pressed to the road surface by the start assisting unit, and a calculation interrupting section for causing the deadweight calculating section to interrupt a calculation of the deadweight of the vehicle during a period in which the assisting operation detection section detects a fact that the drive wheels are being urged and pressed to the road surface by the start assisting unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1997Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventor: Yoji Nakazaki
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Patent number: 5900592Abstract: A load sensing system inexpensively monitors the weight and temperature of stored nuclear material for long periods of time in widely variable environments. The system can include an electrostatic load cell that encodes weight and temperature into a digital signal which is sent to a remote monitor via a coaxial cable. The same cable is used to supply the load cell with power. When multiple load cells are used, vast inventories of stored nuclear material can be continuously monitored and inventoried of minimal cost.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 1997Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Assignee: Lockheed Martin Energy Research Corp.Inventors: Carl W. Sohns, Robert N. Nodine, Steven Allen Wallace
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Patent number: 5895892Abstract: A mechanical load indicator device continuously monitors the position of the frame of a vehicle relative to some point on the vehicle suspension. The load indicator device is calibrated to be triggered when a certain vehicle load limit is reached. When that load limit is reached or exceeded, the device is "triggered," providing an unambiguous visual indication to the vehicle operator that a vehicle overload condition has occurred. A method of installing, operating, and calibrating an overload detection system is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 1997Date of Patent: April 20, 1999Assignee: Interpool LimitedInventor: George John Braun
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Patent number: 5837945Abstract: A weighing system for determining the weight of material deposited from a container into a collection truck for collecting refuse or recyclable material includes at least one load cell installed into a lifting fork of the truck lifting arm for producing output signals based on the load on the arm as the full container is lifted and the emptied container is lowered. An acceleration or angle sensor is also provided on the lifting arm for sensing the acceleration or angle of the arm and producing a corresponding output signal. A processing unit receives the load cell and sensor outputs during raising and lowering of the lifting arm, and calculates the dynamic weight of the refuse lifted and deposited from the container, using the sensor output to compensate for the angle or G forces on the arm.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 1996Date of Patent: November 17, 1998Assignee: Hardy Instruments, Inc.Inventors: David M. Cornwell, David A. Ness
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Patent number: 5773767Abstract: A weighing scale includes a housing having a top opening defined by a top flange. A weighing module is mounted inside the housing for measuring weight. A scale platform is disposed inside the top opening and rests atop the weighing module by gravity. A proximity sensor is mounted inside the housing adjacent to the platform for detecting proximity thereof, and is joined in communication with the weighing module. An elongate lift bar is pivotally mounted atop the platform for movement between a stowed position flush with the platform and a deployed position spaced in part upwardly above the platform for extending size of the platform and for permitting manual lifting of the platform away from the proximity sensor and return adjacent thereto for resetting the weighing module.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 1996Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Assignee: NCR CorporationInventors: Donald A. Collins, Jr., Rex A. Aleshire
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Patent number: 5767454Abstract: An electronic scale including a fault-detecting electronic display module which can detect a crack in a display, a separation in a cable connected to the display, and a separation between the cable and a connector on a printed circuit board. The fault-detecting electronic display module includes the display, which displays a weight of an object, the cable, and a fault-detecting line extending around at least a portion of the perimeter of the electronic display and through the cable. The electronic scale also includes a load cell for sensing the weight of the object, and a controller coupled to the load cell and to the fault-detecting display module.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1996Date of Patent: June 16, 1998Assignee: NCR CorporationInventor: John C. Goodwin, III
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Patent number: 5635906Abstract: A security apparatus for a retail store in which each item for sale has a security tag attached thereto. A computerized database stores the approximate weight of each item for sale. During a purchase transaction, a predicted total weight of the items purchased is calculated and the items are placed in a bag or bags. A security station positioned near the exit of the store includes a scale for determining the actual total weight of a bag or bags containing the items purchased; a computer controller for comparing the actual total weight of the bag or bags with the predicted total weight and for generating a notification signal when the actual total weight is not within a predetermined range of the predicted total weight; and a deactivation pad for deactivating the security tags during weighing of the bag or bags. A security tag detection apparatus is positioned between the security station and the exit.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1996Date of Patent: June 3, 1997Inventor: Joseph Joseph
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Patent number: 5545855Abstract: An electronic scale for use in fishing competitions employing a load cell for accurate measurement and including memory for storing and coding measured fish weights. The scale automatically sorts and scrolls through the stored information to display the code and weight of the lightest fish to permit immediate culling of the catch by the user.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1994Date of Patent: August 13, 1996Assignee: Advanced Fishing Technologies, Inc.Inventors: James R. Stanfield, Robert A. Daquilante, Bobby G. Lanham, Jr.
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Patent number: 5539157Abstract: A multi-check metering method employing load cells, characterized in that a plurality of load cells preferably stacked one upon another are attached to a metering table, a meterial to be metered is placed on said metering table, said load cells are operated simultaneously by applying thereto the weight of said material, and respective metered weights of said material are displayed by metered-weight display means based on output signals sent from said load cells; and a load cell metering device comprising a metering table, a plurality of load cells and metered-weight display means.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1993Date of Patent: July 23, 1996Assignee: Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc.Inventors: Masashi Kobayashi, Hiroyuki Ohyama, Hideshi Tokubuchi, Kazuo Nakamura
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Patent number: 5393935Abstract: A portable patient scale has a flexible carrier which may be placed under a hospital bed mattress. Pockets in the carrier hold weighing slats. Each slat has an upper beam and lower beam, with load cells interconnecting the beam on opposite ends of the slat. A microprocessor receives load cell signals to calculate the weight applied to the scale. The microprocessor may also produce a moving out of bed alarm by comparing signals from the load cells on opposite sides of the bed.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1993Date of Patent: February 28, 1995Assignee: CH Administration, Inc.Inventors: Byron E. Hasty, John A. Carbona
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Patent number: 5285022Abstract: A partial weight-bearing scale including a planar weighing surface and a fixed load supporting platform to one side of the weighing surface. The combination enables a user to stand on the support platform with one foot while applying measured pressure to the scale with the other foot. A visual display is provided to indicate the amount of pressure applied to the scale.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 1992Date of Patent: February 8, 1994Inventor: Howard J. Antone
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Patent number: 5139100Abstract: A scanner/scale system in which power to the scanner light source and/or motor is triggered by a weight placed on the scale and in which the scanner is situated between the load assemblies of the scale and the scale platter is situated above the scanner.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 1991Date of Patent: August 18, 1992Assignee: Point of Sale Data Products, Inc.Inventor: James E. Brauneis
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Patent number: 5112319Abstract: An infusion alarm system comprised of a housing, an upper cover attached to the housing at the top, a control circuit set in said upper cover, a battery box set inside the housing and an inner shell set between the housing and the battery box, a tension spring set in the inner shell having a hook coupled thereto at the bottom for suspending a drip infusion bottle, an adjusting key set set in the housing to adjust the tension of the tension spring. When the weight of the drip infusion bottle is reduced to a predetermined range due to reducing of infusion solution during drip infusion operation, the control circuit is triggered to produce audio and visual alarm signals through an audio and a visual alarm device respectively.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1991Date of Patent: May 12, 1992Inventor: Eric Lai
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Patent number: 5076375Abstract: A digital load cell includes a rocker pin, guided beam torsion ring or other counterforce, a circuit board mounted on the counterforce and an enclosure sealing the circuit board and all but the load bearing surfaces of the counterforce. The circuit board includes an A/D converter and a micrcomputer. Digital communication is provided with the circuit board through a connector mounted on the enclosure. Weight data are corrected digitally. The load cell may be calibrated, characterized, controlled and monitored digitally through the connector from a remote location without physically penetrating the enclosure. One or a number of digital load cells may be connected to a computer or controller to form one or more weighing scales.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1990Date of Patent: December 31, 1991Assignee: Mettler-Toledo, Inc.Inventors: Benny N. Dillon, Neil C. Griffen, Mark E. Weihs
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Patent number: 5072798Abstract: A scale having a weight determining element having means to support the elements and means for engaging and suspending a load so that the weight of the load is measured, digital data storage within the weight determining element, a beam sensor in the weight determining element and a beam transmitter operable by a user to signal the weight determining element for temporarily recording a measured weight, a data storage device external of and separate from the weight determining element interconnectable with the weight determining element so that, upon command, the data stored in the weight determining element is transmitted to the data sotrage for use in a printer or for further data processing.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 1990Date of Patent: December 17, 1991Inventor: Samuel H. Franklin
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Patent number: 5052504Abstract: A sales data transmission system includes a sales data processor such as a scale of the type capable of calculating and displaying a sales price from a unit price and a measured weight, a communication device which is made a part of this data processor and transmits and receives signals indicative of sales data and a memory unit which serves not only to receive and store the sales data transmitted from the communication device but also to transmit the stored sales data back to the communication device in response to a request signal therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 1990Date of Patent: October 1, 1991Assignee: Ishida Scales Mfg. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tetsuo Ikeda, Hideo Nobutsugu
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Patent number: 5014798Abstract: The present invention is directed to a cap for a medicine bottle for monitoring a patient's medicine compliance. It involves weighing a container of medicine with cap which includes scale means located therein which is connected to a computer chip with a display unit also located in or on the cap. The chip may store the starting weight or tare weight, plus total weight and when the container or medicine is picked up by the cap at any time, actual weight is fed to the chip. The computer chip may then determine the difference between the starting weight and/or display actual amount of medicine remaining or consumed. The container of medicine is reweighed from time to time with the cap and the chip may compare actual weight with compliance required weight to determine compliance and the cap may visually display the compliance results on the display unit to inform the patient. An optional audio assist may direct the patient to "call the doctor" if a significant compliance deviation is recognized.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1989Date of Patent: May 14, 1991Assignee: Tenax-Glynn CorporationInventor: Kenneth P. Glynn
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Patent number: 4883200Abstract: A thermoplastic melting apparatus comprises a tank pivotally mounted upon bearings within the interior of a housing having a top cover. An electrical or mechanical level indicator device is mounted exteriorly of the tank which is effective to sense pivotal movement of the tank as it is loaded with and/or emptied of thermoplastic material, and to produce a signal which indicates the quantity of thermoplastic material within the tank. The level indicator device is isolated from dynamic forces produced by drive linkages which operate pumps associated with the tank, by positioning the pivot axis of the bearings in the same plane as the force produced by the drive linkage. The lid of the tank is isolated from downward forces applied to the top cover of the housing to prevent the transmittal of forces to the level indicator devices from objects placed on the top cover of the housing or the like.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1988Date of Patent: November 28, 1989Assignee: Nordson CorporationInventors: Scott R. Miller, Robert A. Dunn
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Patent number: 4638875Abstract: A fiber blending system includes a number of feeders which dump fibers onto a conveyor. Each feeder includes a weigh pan into which fibers are fed. The weigh pan is pivotally mounted to the feeder and counterbalanced. Also connected to the weigh pan is a single load cell which monitors the weight of fibers in the pan. The load cell is connected to the weigh pan by a single wire about which vibration damping is disposed. Once a set weight of fibers has collected in the pan, feeding stops until a dump command is given related to the position of the conveyor. When the conveyor is in the appropriate position, all feeders then dump fibers at their respective set weights. The blending system is controllled by a programmable controller which monitors for three malfunctions. If fibers fail to dump after a dump command is given, if an excessive time occurs during which the pans are filling without reaching the set weight and when a predetermined number of heavy dumps occur, an alarm is generated.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 1984Date of Patent: January 27, 1987Assignee: Fiber Controls Corp.Inventor: William R. Murray
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Patent number: 4635739Abstract: An apparatus determines the payload carried in a work vehicle by periodically measuring the pressure of a fluid contained within front and rear suspension struts. The struts are connected in supporting relation between a load carrying portion and a ground engaging portion of the vehicle such that a pressure differential between a loaded and unloaded vehicle can be shown to be indicative of the magnitude of the payload. Moreover, the pressures are a function of the geometry of a suspension means which interconnects the load carrying portion and the ground engaging portion.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 1985Date of Patent: January 13, 1987Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Donald E. Foley, Gregory H. Gipp, William G. Schwader, Craig L. Sells, James A. Smittkamp, Alan L. Stahl, John F. Szentes
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Patent number: 4619336Abstract: Method of and apparatus for dosing powders by weight. To introduce a weight of powder with a predetermined final value P.sub.3 into a weighing receptacle, the functioning of mechanism for positively feeding the powder to the receptacle is controlled by a continuous comparison between the effective weight of powder received by the receptacle following an initial instant t.sub.0 and a theoretical weight conforming to an ideal evolution of such weight of powder as a function of time; at a final predetermined instant t.sub.2 with reference to the initial instant t.sub.0, the positive feeding mechanism is stopped and the powder remaining is allowed to run into the weighing receptacle in an amount corresponding to the amount of poweder which is lost during its transmission by the feeding mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1984Date of Patent: October 28, 1986Assignee: Manufacture de Machines due Haut-RhinInventors: Richard Boyer, Joel Diquet
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Patent number: 4576244Abstract: A talking electronic scale for encouraging the use of and adherence to a preset diet program is disclosed. A user on the scale actuates a mechanism whose movement is transformed to electrical pulses to provide a digital readout of his present weight on a display. A microprocessor provides an electronic memory for storing a goal weight for the person and his weight each time he weighs, along with the date of each stored weight as well as a series of comments to be voiced. The microprocessor also compares the goal weight with the present weight to actuate a voice synthesis device connected to the microprocessor to provide preselected comments appropriate to the comparison. Audio means connected to the voice synthesis device provides for such comments to be audibly spoken to the user.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1984Date of Patent: March 18, 1986Assignee: Zemco, Inc.Inventors: Willard L. Zeigner, John A. MacIntosh
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Patent number: 4524839Abstract: An apparatus for selecting between a mechanical or electrical mode for controlling the flow of fibers by motor driven feed lift aprons from a plurality of hoppers to a plurality of weigh pans for producing a predetermined blend of fibers. The mechanical mode utilizes a balance arm assembly which can be set to feed a predetermined amount of fibers into a weigh pan. The electrical mode utilizes thumbwheel switches which can be set for regulating the amount of fibers to be fed into each weigh pan. The electrical mode system also utilizes a comparator for comparing a signal representing the actual weight of fibers in the weigh pan that is produced by a load cell with a signal representing the desired weight of fibers produced by the thumbwheel switches and generates a control signal responsive thereto. The control signal is used for operating a motor driven feed lift apron associated with the hopper.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1982Date of Patent: June 25, 1985Assignee: Frontier Electronics, Inc.Inventors: John M. Cochran, Jr., Ronald N. Cleveland
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Patent number: 4492279Abstract: A scale for weighing infants using four cantilever beams supporting a platform with a strain gauge on each beam. The strain gauges are connected in a Wheatstone bridge circuit to provide a voltage signal which is independent of the location of the infant on the platform.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1982Date of Patent: January 8, 1985Inventor: Frank H. Speckhart
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Patent number: 4456084Abstract: A system for monitoring the load carried by a vehicle includes a plurality of load cells, each extending between the load bed and the unsprung portion of the vehicle suspension. Each load cell includes an hydraulic cylinder which generates an hydraulic force corresponding to the load applied thereto. A pressure transducer is connected to the hydraulic cylinder, and the outputs of the transducers are summed and fed to an auto zeroing system. The output of this system is connected to an A/D converter, and thence to a visual display. The A/D converter output is also fed to a digital comparator which is connected to a BCD switch set to an overload level. If the load exceeds the BCD input, an overload alarm is sounded.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1982Date of Patent: June 26, 1984Assignee: Atlas Electronics International, Inc.Inventor: Albert J. Miller
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Patent number: 4454831Abstract: A watering indicator for hanging plants, with two support elements (e.g., an upper hook attached to a tubular housing and a lower hook integral with a rod extending into the housing), a spring resisting separation of the support elements (e.g., located within the housing and surrounding the rod), a mask element connected to one support element and adapted to be moved along that element when the two elements move relative to one another, an indicator element with an indication indicia (e.g., a brightly-colored band) mounted to the other support element, all adapted so that the indication indicia is covered by the mask element when the plant is watered and is later exposed when the plant dries out.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 1983Date of Patent: June 19, 1984Inventor: Joseph S. Gallo
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Patent number: 4417236Abstract: An overload detecting and alarm device for hydraulic jack comprises an electronic alarm device and a pressure sensitive switch member connected with the electronic alarm device. The pressure sensitive switch member is inserted into the body of the hydraulic jack and is communicated with the ram cylinder through a duct. This switch member comprises a pressure actuated piston which is normally biased in one direction and a spring plate positioned at another direction. The piston and spring plate act as electric contacts in the switch member and will come into contact each other when an overload fluid pressure is exerted on the piston, thereby inducing the electronic alarm device to produce a warning signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1981Date of Patent: November 22, 1983Inventor: Michael Hung
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Patent number: 4366873Abstract: An electronic scale for use in a weight control program in which the weighing histories and desired weight goals for each of a number of individuals are stored. A weigh signal is produced when an individual steps onto the platform of the scale, and the weight is displayed on the top of a column upstanding from the base and spoken. Following entry of information identifying the individual into a keyboard also atop the column, a microprocessor assembles two types of messages, at least one informational and at least one psychologically reinforcing, from stored message components in accordance with the identified individual's stored weighing history and stored desired weight goal and the message is spoken. In response to manual operation of other keys, the scale can calculate any individual's ideal weight goal and can review his stored weight history.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 1980Date of Patent: January 4, 1983Assignee: Lexicon CorporationInventors: Michael Levy, William P. Porter, Kiran Gandhi, Rick McKay
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Patent number: 4325441Abstract: An electronic cash register electrically communicates with an electronic weighing scale. An interface circuit is included in the electronic cash register for introducing weight information data from the electronic weighing scale into the electronic cash register. An abnormal condition detection system is included in the electronic cash register for detecting an abnormal condition occurring within the electronic weighing scale. The electronic cash register includes a synthetic speech sound generation system for audibly informing an operator of the abnormal condition detected by the abnormal condition detection system.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1980Date of Patent: April 20, 1982Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hiroshi Nakatani, Masahide Ishida, Hachizou Yamamoto
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Patent number: 4192394Abstract: To prevent inaccurate weighing on a platform scale in the event that a driver of a motor vehicle has purposefully or inadvertently positioned his vehicle with one or more of the vehicle wheels located off of the weighing platform, the platform scale is provided with an alarm system which comprises a weight responsive mat switch located in the roadbed along the perimeter of the weighing platform, a signal located in the proximity of the scale operator, and means interconnecting the mat switch and the signal for actuating the signal and alerting the scale operator in response to one or more wheels of the motor vehicle coming into engagement with the mat switch.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1978Date of Patent: March 11, 1980Inventor: Cullie M. Simpson
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Patent number: 4113039Abstract: A body weight measuring apparatus, comprising a scale mechanism adapted to be displaced in accordance with the body weight of a person on the scale mechanism, means for converting the displacement amount of said scale mechanism into an electrical pulse train the number of which pulses is associated with said displacement amount, a counter for counting the number of pulses of said pulse train to provide a data associated with said body weight by way of a count value, and a display for displaying said body weight in a digital manner, wherein various conditioning data, such as the height, sex, age, nationality and the like of a person being measured is set, a standard body weight is evaluated in accordance with the set conditioning data, said standard body weight and said measured body weight are compared to evaluate the difference body weight, which is displayed by means of said display, an upper limit and/or lower limit for defining a desirable standard range of body weight determinable by said conditioning daType: GrantFiled: August 9, 1976Date of Patent: September 12, 1978Assignee: Kubota, Ltd.Inventors: Tsutomu Ozaki, Setsuo Hijikata
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Patent number: 4102262Abstract: The present disclosure involves a refuse loading station comprising a refuse packer assembly, a refuse container and a loading dock disposed in front of the packer assembly. The loading dock includes a track arrangement on which is mounted a loading carriage. The carriage is structured for removably supporting the refuse container. A refuse clearing member is provided for clearing refuse situated between the packer assembly and the container subsequent to said container being loaded. The carriage is movably mounted on a weighing mechanism which provides an indication of the weight of the container when the container is in a refuse loading position. The weighing mechanism is operably coupled to the packer assembly for controlling the loading of the container in accordance with a preselected container weight. The container includes a vertically slidable closure.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1975Date of Patent: July 25, 1978Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: Harvey W. Liberman, Paul L. Goranson, R. Houston Ratledge, Jr., John C. Salyers
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Patent number: 4078623Abstract: A scaling device for weighing load applied on an elevator car floor to prevent overloading operated by detecting the amount of deformation of rubber insulators mounted under the car floor.Load detecting beams are provided under the car floor to detect the deformation of the rubber insulators, and each end of the load detecting beams is loosely jointed to an opposite side of the car floor.When the rubber insulators deform by the load applied on the floor, the load detecting means subside in conformity to the deformation of the rubber insulators and a load detecting switch mounted below the car floor is switched on by the subsidence of the load detecting beams as the load exceeds the rated load, thereby to stop the operation of the car.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1975Date of Patent: March 14, 1978Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Masatoshi Ohta, Norihiko Mitsui, Rokuro Miyazaki
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Patent number: 4068773Abstract: An overload protective system continuously monitors the forward overturning moment on a counterbalanced lift truck and prevents further raising of the carriage or further forward tilting of the mast when the overturning moment is excessive.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1975Date of Patent: January 17, 1978Assignee: Allis-Chalmers CorporationInventors: Terry R. Downing, Warren E. Herwig
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Patent number: D372780Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1994Date of Patent: August 13, 1996Inventors: John A. Krug, Frederick N. Delgado