Scale Pan Patents (Class 177/262)
  • Patent number: 10809121
    Abstract: A weighing device for weighing a load, such as an infant, is disclosed. The weighing device can include a device casing having a placement side configured to retain the load and an underside. Four weight sensors can be coupled to the underside of the device casing. The four weight sensors can be configured to generate a signal corresponding to a weight of the load. A first foot assembly can be coupled to one of the four weight sensors. The first foot assembly can include a first assembly end coupled to the first weight sensor and a second assembly end extending beyond the device casing. The placement side can include at least two retaining walls and a receiving surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: Hatch Baby, Inc.
    Inventors: David Weiss, Ann C. Weiss
  • Patent number: 10349783
    Abstract: The food processor apparatus comprises a spill-proof cutting surface and includes a cutting surface and a flexible flange attached to the cutting surface. The flexible flange is bendable and creates a raised rim around the cutting surface. The flexible flange is itself liquid-proof and is attached to the cutting surface in a liquid-proof manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Inventors: Abigail Humphreys, Carla Humphreys, Donald Humphreys, Jazmin Humphreys, John Humphreys, Samantha Humphreys
  • Patent number: 10001402
    Abstract: Inventory locations such as shelves in a materials handling facility may be used to store items of various shapes and sizes. Described is a modular item stowage system with hardware that incorporates several components that may be readily reconfigured to accommodate changes in store layout, product presentation, and so forth. The components may include one or more of an instrumented auto-facing unit, divider, spacer, and so forth. The hardware may also support onboard electronics such as sensors to acquire sensor data and computing devices to process the sensor data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Jozef Gyori, Ismael Medrano, Alexander Michael Frenkel, Punit Narendra Java
  • Patent number: 9719843
    Abstract: A household scale including a housing intended to be placed horizontally during use, the housing including a support, at least one weight measuring system, connected to a display unit for the result of the measurement, the scale being designed to hold on the support, during use, and a container for holding an item or ingredient. The housing includes a connection to the support enabling the support to hold the container in the following two positions. A stowage position in which the container is attached to the support regardless of the position of the scale in space, and a position of use in which the container is set down on the support not attached to it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Stéphane Thirouin, Michel Sarrazin
  • Patent number: 9084538
    Abstract: A system comprising a biometric monitoring device including a housing including a platform to receive at least one foot of the user, a body weight sensor to generate body weight data, processing circuitry to calculate user weight data which corresponds to the user's weight, using the body weight data, and communication circuitry to: (a) receive user identification data which identifies the user or a portable activity monitoring device, and (b) transmit the user weight data to data storage associated with the user identification data. The system further includes the portable activity monitoring device including a housing having a physical size and shape that is adapted to couple to the user's body, a sensor to generate sensor data, and communication circuitry to receive physiologic data which is based on the user weight data, and processing circuitry to calculate activity data using the sensor data and physiologic data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: Fitbit, Inc.
    Inventors: Shelten Gee Jao Yuen, Eric Nathan Friedman, James Park
  • Patent number: 9018545
    Abstract: A checkout system includes a workstation having a data capture arrangement for capturing through a horizontal window a target associated with a product to identify the product being checked out at the workstation, and a scale for weighing the product at the workstation. The scale has a scale mechanism, and a weighing platter on which the product is placed for weighing. The weighing platter is integrated with the horizontal window and overlies the scale mechanism. The weighing platter projects past the scale mechanism and has a front end that overhangs the scale mechanism. Non-threaded, interlocking connectors, which are provided on the weighing platter and the scale mechanism, prevent the weighing platter from tipping if a force is exerted on the front end of the weighing platter. The weighing platter is mounted on, and removed from, the scale mechanism without the aid of tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl D. Wittenberg, John E. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20140020959
    Abstract: The weighing apparatus is for automatically weighing trash that is separated from a fiber sample. It includes a scale, a weigh pan disposed on the scale, a cleaner for passing a cleaning element across a surface of the weigh pan when the scale is not taking a weight measurement, and a controller for selectively controlling operations and sequencing of the scale and the cleaner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: Yazhou Liu, Jonathan W. Craps, Weichang Zhao, William C. Easterday, Peyman Dehkordi, Hossein M. Ghorashi
  • Publication number: 20130333957
    Abstract: A weighing compartment (10) having a work surface (22), including a balance which is integrated into the weighing compartment and which has a scale pan (24) arranged on the work surface (22), and at least one operation surface (26) which is arranged within the area of the work surface (22). The work surface (22) is formed by the surface of a smooth, continuous plate (20) and the operation surface (26) is integrated into the work surface (22) and is designed as a sensor panel, wherein a sensor (28) is arranged below the plate which forms the work surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventors: Heinrich FELDOTTE, Michael LAUBSTEIN
  • Patent number: 8525051
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sealing mechanism for a scale, in which a connection element connected to a moving lifting element seals or opens an annular gap, wherein, for an opened annular gap, the connection element and lifting element form a biasing load for the weighing sensor of the scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Wipotec Wiege-und Positioniersysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Timo Hauck, Bernd Zinke
  • Patent number: 8330057
    Abstract: The food calorie counting system relates to a calorie counting system that utilizes a container with at least one chamber for holding food materials, sensitive scales integrated into the chambers to weigh the food, and a processor to calculate the number of calories in the food items based on weight, type of food and method of preparation. The number of calories is then displayed on a display device to a user. The system may be used as a stand-alone device, or may further utilize an external central control unit where information from the container is transmitted to the external control unit for processing, food calorie calculation and transmission back to the containers for display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
    Inventors: Mohammad Said Sharawi, Osamah A. Rawashdeh
  • Patent number: 8247711
    Abstract: An intermittent motion checkweigher for weighing products of interest. The checkweigher includes a product transport wheel having a plurality of product retention pockets, each of which retains one or more products of interest throughout the weighing operation. Products are loaded into a product retention pocket by an in-feed conveyor or similar device, after which the product transport wheel is indexed to advance the products in the product retention pocket toward one or more weighing devices where the products will be weighed while still located in the product retention pocket. After weighing, the products are advanced to a discharge conveyor or similar device by further indexing of the product transport wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo, LLC
    Inventors: David Troisi, Josh White
  • Patent number: 8178799
    Abstract: A carrier for objects to be sequentially weighed is designed for connection to a load receiver of a weighing cell. The carrier has a supporting structure and a multi-compartment weighing tray. The supporting structure has an element for coupling the supporting structure to the load receiver and an element for connecting the weighing tray to the supporting structure in a guided and constrained manner. The weighing tray is seated or slid into place, leaving it free to perform a defined linear, swiveling, or rotary movement relative to the supporting structure. The weighing tray has at least two receiving compartments, arranged so that each can be sequentially moved into a defined loading position, fixed relative to the supporting structure. A positioning device, arranged between the supporting structure and the weighing tray, precisely aligns with the loading position the receiving compartment that is next to be moved into the loading position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventor: Paul Lüchinger
  • Patent number: 8178797
    Abstract: A hermetically sealed scale for use in a weighing scale. A scale of the present invention may include a load receiving plate and a bottom plate, between which is sandwiched a supporting rib structure that preferably includes a plurality of perimeter members that form sealed upright sides of the scale. The supporting rib structure, load receiving plate and bottom plate cooperate to form a substantially rigid and hermetically sealed sandwich structure. The load receiving plate may be joined to the supporting rib structure by perimeter welding or another bonding technique that permits the joining material to be subsequently shaped to form a smooth transition between the load receiving plate and the perimeter members of the scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Bayer, Michael Perrea, Thomas S. Rice, Pete Wyman, Anthony Ticknor
  • Patent number: 8171784
    Abstract: A gas cylinder residual gas volume indicator includes a carrier having a weight-receiving part and a pressure-applying part, a hydraulic cylinder having a cylinder body holding a hydraulic fluid and a cylinder piston stopped against the pressure-applying part of the carrier and movable with the pressure-applying part relative to the cylinder body to force the hydraulic fluid out of the cylinder body according to the weight received from a gas cylinder by the weight-receiving part, a hydraulic mechanical type meter having an index rotatable by a hydraulic fluid, and an oil pipe for guiding the hydraulic fluid out of the hydraulic cylinder into the meter to rotate the index.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Winners Products Engineering Ltd.
    Inventor: David Hong
  • Patent number: 8153912
    Abstract: A baby scale includes a weighing tray configured to hold a baby and having a first tray half and a second tray half disposable together in a storage position; a measuring device configured to support the weighing tray and configured to determine a weight of the baby, the measuring device including at least one load cell; a display configured to show the weight of the baby; and a connection device configured to establish a mechanical connection and an electrical connection when the first tray half and the second tray half are in a weighing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Soehnle Professional GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Stephan Gerster, Michael Schurr, Albrecht Stahl
  • Patent number: 8148651
    Abstract: A pet feeding and weighing system for efficiently providing a weighing platform having one or more feeding bowls therein to allow for a pet to be weighed in a consistent manner when the pet returns for food or drink. The pet feeding and weighing system generally includes a platform having a feeding portion and a weighing portion extending therefrom, wherein the feeding portion includes at least one opening extending therethrough and at least one feeding container is positioned within the opening. A plurality of weight sensors are in communicative contact with the weighing portion and a local digital display responsive to the weight sensor indicates a weight applied upon the weighing portion of the platform over the weight sensor. The present invention may also include a controller having memory for storing and allowing the retrieval of past weight measurements along with their respective date and time taken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Judith M. Coppola
  • Patent number: 8053686
    Abstract: A base for a scale tilts slightly when a wheel is rolled onto it, to facilitate rolling the wheel onto a central ovular or elliptical concave mat surface. Opposed handgrips forming grippable loops may be provided on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: InnoVision Devices LLC
    Inventor: Douglas R. Domel
  • Patent number: 7893367
    Abstract: An infant scale includes a scale pan configured to hold an infant and including first and second pan halves foldable against each other from an unfolded weighing position to a folded-up storage position. A measuring device is configured to support the scale pan and to determine a weight of the infant. The measuring device includes a plurality of load cells. A display is configured to show the determined weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Soehnle Professional GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Stephan Gerster
  • Patent number: 7834279
    Abstract: A weighing apparatus comprising a weighing pan (20) for supporting on an upper surface thereof an object (21) to be weighed, a support for the weighing pan (20), the support contacting a lower surface of the weighing pan and comprising an elongate member (23) extending downwardly from the weighing pan (20), the elongate member (23) extending through a hole (24) provided in a floor (36), located beneath the weighing pan (20), of a weighing pan region of the apparatus, a weighing mechanism (44) located beneath the floor (36) of the weighing pan region in a weighing mechanism region of the apparatus, the elongate member (23) connecting with the weighing mechanism, and a drive means (28) for selectively moving the weighing pan (20) between an upper position, at which the weighing pan (20) is spaced from the floor (36), and a lower position, at which the weighing pan (20) contacts the floor (36) in a sealing relationship for preventing material in the weighing pan region from passing through the hole (24) into the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Pfizer Inc
    Inventor: Donald Bruce Atherton Macmichael
  • Patent number: 7759586
    Abstract: A weighing lift has a single-piece platform for an electronic balance and a holder into which the platform can be plugged. The platform has a load-receiving area for an object to be weighed, a centering pin and a rotation-blocking element. The rotation-blocking element is arranged between the load-receiving area and the centering pin. The single-piece platform is preferably made from a sheet metal material. The platform can be plugged substantially without loose play into the holder. The holder has at its end a first coupling portion with a wedge-shaped groove serving to receive the rotation-blocking element. It also has a body in which a receiving seat is formed for the centering pin, which serves to position the platform parallel to the load direction of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Siegfried Zeiss, Hansjoerg Rotach
  • Patent number: 7683272
    Abstract: A scale, comprising a body, wherein a supporting panel is disposed on the body; the supporting panel comprises an upper supporting panel and a lower supporting panel that can be folded and unfolded; the lower supporting panel is connected to the body via a rotatable axis disposed on a off-center position of the body, or a pair of slideways. The scale according to the invention is able to safely and effectively measure height and weight in a horizontal state, and the small size thereof is particularly useful in households. The scale is applicable to measuring the weight and height of infants, children, and adults.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventor: Chuan Hong
  • Publication number: 20090173551
    Abstract: The present invention protects a mass sensor from an overload in any direction. A support structure is accommodated in a case, has a floating frame provided on one end side and a fixed portion provided on the other end side, receives a load of an object to be weighed placed on a scale pan with the aid of the floating frame part, and supports the mass sensor used in scales to detect the mass of the object to be weighed. The support structure has a spring member for supporting the mass sensor, and is interposed between the fixed portion and the case, which are structural members. The spring member is elastically deformed in advance to thereby press/urge on the fixed portion of the mass sensor and cause the portion to come into contact with the structural member side. The spring member deforms elastically so that the fixed portion separates from the contact location when a force greater than the pressing/urging force is applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: A&D Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Naoto Izumo, Akiyoshi Oota
  • Patent number: 7550683
    Abstract: The invention at hand represents a dieter's food scale that fits within the base of a plate. It contains a plate scale, a supportive cord, and a digital interface. The supportive cord holds the digital interface firmly in place yet out from under the dinner plate so that an LCD on the digital interface can be clearly viewed. The scale is capable of weighing and displaying the weight of each serving while simultaneously memorizing and storing a weeks activity. A dieter can zero, reset and switch between grams and ounces. The invention at hand is small and compact so that it can be carried off site to use 24/7 in almost any environment. It is battery operated and automatically shuts off to preserve battery life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Amanda Daughtry
  • Publication number: 20090152021
    Abstract: It is disclosed a balance or platform scale consisting of a main body (2) of composite material, to which a predetermined number of load cells is linked as well as adjustable supporting means (4) of the main body (2) to enable the scale to rest on the ground. A scale thus made has a very reduced weight and reduced sizes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: IBR INDUSTRIE BILANCE RIUNITE S.P.A.
    Inventor: Fabrizio Tamborini
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7439457
    Abstract: The higher the reading of relative density, liquid weight per unit volume, of pieces of produce such as fruits, the juicier the piece of produce is. By comparing a number of pieces of produce of the same type and species and ranking them, the juiciest pieces of produce may be easily selected and purchased by a shopper. An arrangement of linkages and a sliding spring element creates a device with two inputs, one input being proportional to the volume of the produce based on a representative diameter, and the other input being an approximation of the weight of the produce based on the deflection of a spring. The two inputs are mechanically combined to create one output indicative of density, and thus juiciness, and a pointer is employed whose deflection is proportional to the quotient of the weight and volumetric inputs of each piece of produce tested by the shopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Inventor: John E Meschter
  • Patent number: 7348501
    Abstract: A scale comprises a pair of elongate support members, each member containing a gauge, which provides an indication of the weight of an item placed across the two members. The members are structurally connected solely via a surface plate adapted to rest on the support members to provide a substantially flat surface to receive items to be weighed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventor: Paul F. Nugent, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7339123
    Abstract: A wheelchair scale is provided wherein triangular or trapezoidal box-shaped members are used for forming a support base having a truss structure. The box-shaped members are formed in advance by welding, and are then welded together. Since the welding processes can be performed separately, work efficiency is improved. In addition, since the support base has a truss structure, it supports a large amount of weight without deflection, even though its thickness is relatively small. In addition, the weight of the support base is reduced compared to a conventional base having a pipe structure. Furthermore, because the height of the support base from the floor is reduced compared to a typical conventional structure, a wheelchair can be easily moved onto the support base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Tanita Corporation
    Inventor: Mikio Yamashita
  • Patent number: 7271352
    Abstract: An apparatus for weighing mail pieces being advanced across a transport path including a weighing module having load cells, an in-feed drive module and a takeaway module. The scale platform is mounted independently of the in-feed drive module and the takeaway module, and the scale platform comprises an uninterrupted mail piece support surface. A control system is provided that acquires a mail piece weight signal when the lead edge of a mail piece reaches a sensor at the exit of the weighing module. Sensors also calculate the velocity of a mail piece as it leaves the weighing module, whereby speed of each mail piece is accelerated to its original speed and position in the mail transport path. Mail weighing throughput rates of up to 10 mail pieces per second are achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventor: K. George Rabindran
  • Patent number: 7247802
    Abstract: A checkout station comprises a deactivation system having an antenna for transmitting a signal to the security feature on a product passing over the checkout station to deactivate the security feature and a scale for weighing the product at the checkout station. A composite weigh plate is supported by the scale and includes a metal face plate configured to support the product thereon for weighing the product and a metal sub-frame configured to support the face plate. The face plate and the sub-frame each define a slit so that they do not form a closed electrically conductive loop. An electrically non-conductive bonding agent fixes the metal face plate to the metal sub-frame to maintain the structural integrity of the composite weigh plate in spite of the presence of the slits in the metal components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventor: Joshua B. Minter
  • Patent number: 7199311
    Abstract: Portable scale devices, apparatus and methods for use with stretchers so that emergency medical service (EMS) personal can accurately measure a patient's weight in the field so that proper medication treatment and dosage can be administered. A head plate member can be pivotably attached to a middle plate, and a foot plate member can also be pivotably attached to the middle plate. The head and foot plate members can be inclined to form a V configuration relative the middle plate. A scale can be attached beneath the middle plate so that the pivotable head and foot plate members on the middle member with the scale can be easily inserted between a mattress and a stretcher. The portable scale devices, apparatus and methods can be used in the field as soon as a patient is placed on the stretcher, as well as when the stretcher is being physically moved and handled in the field, and additionally when the stretcher is being placed and/or moved by a vehicle such as an ambulance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Pro Scale Plus, LLC
    Inventors: Ellis Buckner, Jr., Rodney K. Johnston
  • Patent number: 7132610
    Abstract: A weighing cell module with a force-transfer mechanism that includes a parallel-guiding linkage with a vertically movable parallelogram leg and a spatially fixed parallelogram leg, is equipped with a mounting area for a first weighing-pan support device with a single-point connection of a weighing pan, as well as with a mounting area for a second weighing-pan support device with a multiple-point connection, particularly a four-point connection, of a weighing pan, wherein the first and the second mounting area are each connected to the force-transfer mechanism. As a result, the weighing cell module can be used to manufacture different types of balances in a design family of balances, where each different type within the family is designed for a different maximum load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Thomas Köppel, Peter Schilling, Ferdinand Schneider, Hans-Rudolph Burkhard
  • Patent number: 7037471
    Abstract: A disposable paper weighing dish that is configured and arranged to hold a substance during weighing. The weighing dish includes at least one sheet of paper with at least one surface that is lubricious and substantially impermeable to finely powdered dry chemicals. The paper material has been shaped with a mechanical forming die to form a self-supporting open dish-shaped structure that includes at least a bottom wall and a raised perimeter sidewall that is continuous with, and surrounds the bottom wall. The perimeter sidewall includes multiple upwardly oriented flutes, in which the lubricity of the paper and the configuration and arrangement of the flutes cooperate to allow a substantially quantitative transfer of the substance following weighing, by sliding the substance with the force of gravity from the weighing dish into a receiving container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: Daniel Perlman
  • Patent number: 7012198
    Abstract: A balance includes a weighing cell with a vertically movable load receiver, a weighing pan to receive a weighing load, and a support element to couple the weighing pan to the vertically movable load receiver of the weighing cell. A cantilever arm with a seat for at least one calibration weight is solidly connected to the support element. The balance has a coupling arrangement that constrains the support element with low-friction mobility to the load receiver at three points forming a triangle in a plane that extends orthogonal to the symmetry plane of the weighing cell, wherein the triangle is symmetric to the symmetry plane of the weighing cell. Under the coupling arrangement, the support element is solidly supported on the load receiver in the direction in which the weighing load is acting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo GmbH
    Inventors: Beat Lüdi, Eduard Fringeli, Paul Lüchinger
  • Patent number: 7009119
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a weight scale having a control system that prompts users for their identity and then displays any one or more of: present weight, past weights, target weights and/or the differences therebetween, as well as a graphical representation of weight vs. time. Another feature of the present invention is the use of a viscoelastic foam pad on the surface of the scale for comfort and sanitary benefits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Conair Corporation
    Inventors: Vito James Carlucci, Paul Joseph Denhup
  • Patent number: 6998543
    Abstract: A platter for a weighing scale includes a base and a plurality of legs which extend downwardly from the base. The platter also includes at least one hinged member mounted on the base and movable between a horizontal position and an unfolded position in which the hinged member extends upwardly from the base. When unfolded, the hinged member may aid in supporting a stack of letters on the weighing scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Pitney Bowes Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph B. Sugrue, David W. Beckstrom
  • Patent number: 6916999
    Abstract: A weighing pan for a comparator balance has a surface coated with a polymer lacquer. The coated surface is distinguished by a moderate hardness and increased levels of sliding friction and adhesive friction. By adding anti-static agents, the surface coating can be made sufficiently conductive to avoid electrostatic charges. The coating is resistant to solvents and to the kinds of fluids that are used to perform density determinations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo GmbH
    Inventor: Renè Weber
  • Patent number: 6903281
    Abstract: The invention relates to an instrument and method for measuring minute quantities of weight, including a pan for holding a sample to be weighed, a chamber for forming an enclosure about the pan, and a hang-down wire coupled to the pan for suspending the pan within the chamber. The pan has volume less than 0.020 cm3 and the hang-down wire has a volume less than 0.01 cm3. The invention may also include a carrier gas, placed within the chamber, having a generally consistent density over changes in temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: PerkinElmer Instruments LLC
    Inventors: Avinash Dalmia, E. Joel McCorkle
  • Patent number: 6864438
    Abstract: A load receiver (10) for a balance with arms (11) is designed to support weights of various shapes and sizes (13, 14, 15, 16) by cradling the weights in a depression sloped at a variable slope angle towards the middle of the load receiver. A loading stage (1) arranged to cooperate with the load receiver (10) has one or more weight-placement devices (5) designed so that the load receiver (10) can reach through the weight-placement device (5) without touching the latter. The loading stage (1) and the load receiver (10) are moveable up and down in relation to each other. The weight-placement device (5) is suitably configured to support the different weights (13, 14, 15, 16). The load receiver (10) and loading stage (1) are used in a mass comparator for testing weight standards with a high degree of precision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo GmbH
    Inventor: René Weber
  • Patent number: 6864437
    Abstract: A weight set for an electronic balance has at least two different weights (15, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29) and a weight-receiving device (19) with receiving positions for each of the weights (15, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29). The weight set (2) has one lifter unit (17) per weight for the vertical movement of each individual weight (15, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29). The lifter units, which are equipped with a weight-seating device and reach through the weight-receiving device (19), are identical and are arranged parallel to each other in the weight set (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo GmbH
    Inventor: René Weber
  • Patent number: 6835901
    Abstract: A balance includes a weighing compartment and a balance housing containing a weighing cell, wherein the balance housing forms a rear wall and a floor of the weighing compartment. A weighing-load carrier is coupled to a coupling arrangement extending through passage openings formed at the rear wall. The weighing-load carrier that is configured as a level grate. The floor extends without openings below the weighing-load carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo GmbH
    Inventor: Paul Lüchinger
  • Patent number: 6833515
    Abstract: The present invention relates to compact portable electronic scale having a scale lid mechanism which pivots the lid of the scale in a predetermined controlled manner between a closed position, where the lid overlays the weighing platform, and an open position, where the lid is pivoted towards the rear of the scale. The pivot mechanism positions the lid such that neither the lid nor the hinge interferes with weighing of oversized objects. Further, the scale includes a removable weighing tray to assist in weighing loose or oversized objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Inventor: Joshua D. Kesselman
  • Patent number: 6797894
    Abstract: A body weigh scale that is formed of a fiber-filled, polyester thermosetting polymer material that is sufficiently rigid so that it may house strain-gauge load cells therein, and yet not significantly deflect under load. The fiber-filled, polyester thermosetting polymer material provides an attractive surface after molding. The fiber-filled, polyester thermosetting polymer material has extremely low shrinkage rates so that the outer pattern and shape of the scale is not affected by the forming of very thin cross sections adjacent to thick cross-sections. In addition, the fiber-filled, polyester thermosetting polymer material is sufficiently rigid to permit a body weigh scale to be constructed having a low profile with integral load-receiving platform and strain-gauge load cell receptacles. The rigidity of the fiber-filled, polyester thermosetting polymer material provides sufficient structural support for operation of the strain-gauge load cells without deflection of material at the receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.
    Inventors: James G. Montagnino, Ricardo Murguia, Anson Wong
  • Patent number: 6777625
    Abstract: A balance including a weighing pan (2; 32), a weigh sensor (8; 38) with a housing (1; 31) enclosing the weigh sensor, and an antenna (7; 37) configured to communicate with a transponder (4) that is, e.g., associated with or attached to an object being weighed (3). The antenna (7; 37) is arranged in a horizontal plane in or below the weighing pan (2; 32) and the weighing pan is preferably made of an electrically poorly conductive material. As a result, the antenna is almost invisibly integrated in the balance and does not interfere with the placement of the objects being weighed on the balance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Sartorius Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Christian Oldendorf
  • Publication number: 20040129462
    Abstract: A weighing pan for a comparator balance has a surface coated with a polymer lacquer. The coated surface is distinguished by a moderate hardness and increased levels of sliding friction and adhesive friction. By adding anti-static agents, the surface coating can be made sufficiently conductive to avoid electrostatic charges. The coating is resistant to solvents and to the kinds of fluids that are used to perform density determinations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Applicant: Mettler-Toledo GmbH
    Inventor: Rene Weber
  • Publication number: 20040129463
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a weight scale having a control system that prompts users for their identity and then displays any one or more of: present weight, past weights, target weights and/or the differences therebetween, as well as a graphical representation of weight vs. time. Another feature of the present invention is the use of a viscoelastic foam pad on the surface of the scale for comfort and sanitary benefits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Applicant: CONAIR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Vito James Carlucci, Paul Joseph Denhup
  • Patent number: 6759605
    Abstract: A platform scale cover is reinforced with one or more scale mats formed of a fiber filled polyester thermoset plastic material (FFP). The mats can be securely and rigidly fixed to scale covers using conventional mechanical fasteners. The FFP can be molded with textures, colors and grain patterns which closely simulate natural materials such as marble, granite and other stone and brick type materials. Sturdy mountings can be molded on the mats to facilitate mounting the mat to a scale platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.
    Inventors: James G. Montagnino, Anson Wong, Ricardo Murguia
  • Publication number: 20040055790
    Abstract: A method is provided for weighing a series of mail pieces such as letters, flats or a mixture thereof, that are being conveyed through a weighing module. Each mail piece has a length which falls within a range bounded by a maximum length and a minimum length. The mail pieces are conveyed through the weighing module at a substantially constant speed while maintaining a minimum gap between successive mail pieces as the mail pieces pass through the weighing module. The weight of each mail piece is measured during a measurement time when that mail piece is the only mail piece moving on the scale. The scale is sized so that measurement times for mail pieces between the maximum and minimum lengths will vary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventors: Frank Gerstenberg, Peter Knispel
  • Patent number: 6621015
    Abstract: An electronic balance is provided in which influences due to a four-corner error can be eliminated from an indicated value of weighing without strictly conducting mechanical adjustment, so that correct indication can be always performed. As means for attaining the object, a dish support 2 interposed between a weighing dish 3 and a load detecting mechanism 1 is configured by four cantilever beams 2a to 2d which respectively elongate in four directions, the weighing dish 3 is supported by the vicinities of tip ends of the cantilever beams 2a to 2d, and deflection amount detecting means 5a to 5d for respectively detecting deflection amounts of the cantilever beams 2a to 2d are disposed. The position of the center of gravity of a load on the weighing dish 3 is calculated by using outputs of the deflection amount detecting means 5a to 5d.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Shimazu Corporation
    Inventors: Tetsuro Kusumoto, Nobuyuki Yoshikuwa
  • Publication number: 20030150653
    Abstract: A platform scale cover is reinforced with one or more scale mats formed of a fiber filled polyester thermoset plastic material (FFP). The mats can be securely and rigidly fixed to scale covers using conventional mechanical fasteners. The FFP can be molded with textures, colors and grain patterns which closely simulate natural materials such as marble, granite and other stone and brick type materials. Sturdy mountings can be molded on the mats to facilitate mounting the mat to a scale platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: James G. Montagnino, Anson Wong, Ricardo Murguia