U.S. patent application number 14/174118 was filed with the patent office on 2014-07-10 for force-measuring module for a force-measuring device using a plurality of such modules.
This patent application is currently assigned to Mettler-Toledo AG. The applicant listed for this patent is Mettler-Toledo AG. Invention is credited to Douglas Bliss, Cyrill Bucher, Aaron Skidmore, Markus Uster.
Application Number | 20140190754 14/174118 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39493345 |
Filed Date | 2014-07-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140190754 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bucher; Cyrill ; et
al. |
July 10, 2014 |
FORCE-MEASURING MODULE FOR A FORCE-MEASURING DEVICE USING A
PLURALITY OF SUCH MODULES
Abstract
A multiple force-measuring device, especially a multiple
weighing device has at least two force-measuring modules. Each
force-measuring module includes a force-measuring cell and a power
delivery means. The power delivery means of at least one of the
force-measuring modules in this arrangement is connected, directly
or through a junction element, to a control cable that is connected
to a power supply unit. The force-measuring modules are connected
directly to each other through a module-connection cable that
transfers electrical power therebetween.
Inventors: |
Bucher; Cyrill; (Uster,
CH) ; Skidmore; Aaron; (Columbus, OH) ; Bliss;
Douglas; (Worthington, OH) ; Uster; Markus;
(Naenikon, CH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Mettler-Toledo AG |
Greifensee |
|
CH |
|
|
Assignee: |
Mettler-Toledo AG
Greifensee
CH
|
Family ID: |
39493345 |
Appl. No.: |
14/174118 |
Filed: |
February 6, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12632234 |
Dec 7, 2009 |
8648266 |
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14174118 |
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PCT/EP2008/053623 |
Mar 27, 2008 |
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12632234 |
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60942468 |
Jun 7, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
177/25.13 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01G 23/01 20130101;
G01G 23/3707 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
177/25.13 |
International
Class: |
G01G 23/01 20060101
G01G023/01 |
Claims
1. A force-measuring module for use in a force-measuring device
having a plurality of the force-measuring modules, the force
measuring device also having a terminal, a power supply and a
plurality of connection cables, arranged to form a chain that
transmits communication signals bi-directionally between the
terminal and the force-measuring modules and that transmits power
uni-directionally from the power supply to the force-measuring
modules, each force-measuring module comprising: a housing; a
force-measuring cell, arranged in the housing to receive a force
imposed thereupon and generate a measurement signal proportional to
the imposed force; a communication means, arranged in the housing
to receive a measurement signal from the force-measuring cell and
to communicate bi-directionally with the terminal; a power delivery
means, arranged in the housing to receive power from the power
supply and to distribute the power within the housing; and a link
of the chain, comprising: a first plug connector, arranged on the
housing and configured on the exterior thereof for connection to a
first of the plurality of connection cables; and a second plug
connector, arranged on the housing and configured on the exterior
thereof for connection to a second of the plurality of connection
cables; wherein, on the interior of the housing, the bi-directional
communication signals and the uni-directional power transmitted by
the chain through the respective connection cables are linked
through at least the first and second plug connectors, the
communication means and the power delivery means.
2. The module of claim 1, wherein: the housing is attached to the
force-measuring cell by welding such that imposing a load results
in deformation of both the housing and the force-measuring
cell.
3. The module of claim 1, wherein: the housing is tightly sealed
against the ambient environment of the force-measuring device.
4. The module of claim 1, wherein: the first plug connector is
configured for connection to the first of the plurality of
connection cables, which is one of: a module connection cable for
connecting to another force-measuring module; or a control cable
that bridges a distance between the force-measuring module and the
terminal, establishing an immediate connection to the terminal.
5. The module of claim 1, wherein: each of the respective plug
connectors comprises separate leads for the communication signals
and the power transmitted therethrough.
6. The module of claim 1, wherein: each of the respective plug
connectors comprises a common lead for the communication signals
and the power transmitted therethrough.
7. The module of claim 1, wherein: the communications means is
further arranged to communicate bi-directionally with at least one
other force-measuring module of the force-measuring device.
8. The module of claim 1, wherein: both plug connections are
configured to act as either an input or an output.
9. The module of claim 8, wherein: establishing the function of one
of the plug connectors as an input results in establishing the
remaining plug connector as an output.
10. A force-measuring module for use in a force-measuring device
having a plurality of the force-measuring modules, the force
measuring device also having a terminal, a power supply and a
plurality of connection cables, arranged to form a chain that
transmits communication signals bi-directionally between the
terminal and the force-measuring modules and that transmits power
uni-directionally from the power supply to the force-measuring
modules, each force-measuring module comprising: a housing; a
force-measuring cell, arranged in the housing to receive a force
imposed thereupon and generate a measurement signal proportional to
the imposed force; a communication means, arranged in the housing
to receive a measurement signal from the force-measuring cell and
to communicate bi-directionally with the terminal; a power delivery
means, arranged in the housing to receive power from the power
supply and to distribute the power within the housing; and a link
of the chain, comprising: a first plug connector, arranged on the
housing and configured on the exterior thereof for connection to a
first of the plurality of connection cables; and an integral module
connection cable, having a first end directly connected, internally
to the housing, and a second end with a second plug connector
configured for connection to a complementary plug connector of
another force-measuring module of the plurality of force-measuring
modules, wherein, on the interior of the housing, the
bi-directional communication signals and the uni-directional power
transmitted by the chain through the respective connection cables
are linked through at least the first plug connector, the
communication means, the power delivery means and the integral
module connection cable.
11. The module of claim 10, wherein: the housing is attached to the
force-measuring cell by welding such that imposing a load results
in deformation of both the housing and the force-measuring
cell.
12. The module of claim 10, wherein: the housing is tightly sealed
against the ambient environment of the force-measuring device.
13. The module of claim 10, wherein: the first plug connector is
configured for connection to the first of the plurality of
connection cables, which is one of: a module connection cable for
connecting to another force-measuring module; or a control cable
that bridges a distance between the force-measuring module and the
terminal, establishing an immediate connection to the terminal.
14. The module of claim 10, wherein: each of the respective plug
connectors comprises separate leads for the communication signals
and the power transmitted therethrough.
15. The module of claim 10, wherein: each of the respective plug
connectors comprises a common lead for the communication signals
and the power transmitted therethrough.
16. The module of claim 10, wherein: the communications means is
further arranged to communicate bi-directionally with at least one
other force-measuring module of the force-measuring device.
17. The module of claim 10, wherein: both plug connections are
configured to act as either an input or an output.
18. The module of claim 17, wherein: establishing the function of
one of the plug connectors as an input results in establishing the
remaining plug connector as an output.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No.
12/632,234, filed 7 Dec. 2009 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,648,266
on 11 Feb. 2014, which is in turn claims a right of priority as a
continuation of PCT/EP2008/053623, filed 27 Mar. 2008, now expired,
which is in turn entitled to a right of priority as a
non-provisional of U.S. provisional application 60/942,468, filed 7
Jun. 2007. The content of each of the applications is incorporated
by reference as if fully recited herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The disclosed embodiments relate to a multiple
force-measuring device, in particular a multiple weight-measuring
device, and to a force-measuring module used therein.
BACKGROUND OF THE ART
[0003] Under the definition used herein, a multiple force-measuring
device includes at least two force-measuring modules and an
indicator device. The force-measuring module, in turn, includes an
electromechanical force-measuring cell serving to determine a
force, which functions as a measurement converter in that it
converts the input quantity, which is a mechanical force, into an
electrical output signal. A special type of multiple
force-measuring device exists in the form of a weighing scale with
a plurality of weighing devices, so-called weighing modules. The
force-measuring cell is configured in this case as a weighing cell
and serves for the mechanical-to-electrical conversion whereby the
weight force exerted by a weighing object is converted into an
electrical signal. Accordingly, a force-measuring module or a
weighing module as the term is understood here means, respectively,
a force-measuring device or a weighing scale without an indicator
device.
[0004] A multiple force-measuring device under the terminology used
herein is a force-measuring device in which the force to be
measured is distributed by means of a mechanical device, in
particular a measuring plate or a container, onto a plurality of
force-measuring modules. Each force-measuring module in this
arrangement includes a force-measuring cell, by means of which the
portion of the force that is imparted to the respective module can
be individually determined. The results from the individual
force-measuring cells are then passed on to a common output device,
where they are combined into an overall result.
[0005] Multiple force-measuring devices are used for example in
industrial installations for the weighing of the contents of
basins, tanks, reactor vessels and the like. Typically in these
kinds of applications the weighing modules are configured as
high-capacity weighing modules, as so-called tank weighing cells or
reactor vessel weighing cells. For each container to be weighed, a
plurality of weighing modules are arranged between the feet of the
container and the foundation. Thus, each foot of the container
rests on a force-measuring module. In order to determine the weight
of the container and/or of its contents, the measurement values
determined by the force-measuring modules need to be added, as each
measurement value represents a part of the mass. This calculation
is in most cases performed in a processor device and/or controller
device set up in an adjacent location.
[0006] High-capacity force-measuring cells also find application as
weighing modules in weighing scales for trucks. Truck scales
typically have several measuring plates or weighing plates, each of
which rests on a plurality of force-measuring modules. Accordingly,
each force-measuring module measures a partial weight of the truck
and/or of one or more trailers. The measuring results of the
individual force-measuring modules are transmitted to a common
processor device that is located at some distance from the
measuring plates and from the force-measuring modules, for example
in a controller device located as much as several hundred meters
away.
[0007] According to U.S. Pat. No. 7,151,230 to Brighenti
("Brighenti '230"), the processor device is implemented as an
external device in the form of a so-called weighing terminal. By
way of an indicator device that belongs to the weighing terminal,
the results of the multiple force-measuring device can be released.
In addition, a device for supplying the multiple force-measuring
device with power is arranged in the processor device. Accordingly,
the individual force-measuring modules are supplied with electrical
energy through this central power supply.
[0008] To transmit the measurement results and the supply current,
the force-measuring modules are connected through cables to the
processor device. Typically in such an arrangement, the supply
current and the transmission of the measurement value are in the
same cables, although by separate conductors. Furthermore, as a
means to simplify the cable arrangement, the individual
force-measuring modules are connected by shorter distributor lines
to a distribution device, and only the latter has a direct
connection through an individual cable, the so-called "home-run"
cable, directly to the controller device. The power supply and the
transmission of the measurement values are thus merged in the
distribution device in order to avoid multiple parallel cables over
the distance between the measuring plates and the controller
building.
[0009] As shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,135,062 to Lockery, if there are
four force-measuring modules, the distribution device can be
arranged so that it is located at the center of a rectangle formed
by the four force-measuring modules. As a result, a short cable
length is achieved between the force-measuring modules and the
distribution device, which in consequence reduces electrical
disturbances and mechanical stresses and also lowers the cost of
cabling.
[0010] Particularly in larger installations, for example in
weighing installations for trucks, there are often many measuring
plates and force-measuring modules involved, for example four
measuring plates with a total of sixteen force-measuring modules.
As a result, one arrives at a multi-layered, cascaded or hierarchic
network of distribution devices in order to achieve the desired
merging of the connections. In the case of sixteen force-measuring
modules, one ends up for example with a first level of four
distribution devices, a second lever of two distribution devices,
and one third-level distribution device, thus a total of seven
distribution devices.
[0011] However, the distribution devices are expensive and
susceptible to interference. The probability of errors in the
installation process as well as during operation and maintenance
increases with the rising number of components. It is therefore
desirable to assemble a force-measuring device with the smallest
possible number of distribution devices.
[0012] In the Brighenti '230 weighing device, eight weighing
modules are connected to a central distribution device. Thus, the
use of intermediate hierarchic levels of distribution devices can
be dispensed with. The central distribution device serves a common
juncture for the power supply as well as for the communication
leads and offers the advantage of a simple arrangement of the
conductor lines. Nevertheless, in most cases this arrangement
involves longer distribution leads and a larger overall length of
the distribution leads, thus an increased susceptibility to
interference and higher costs.
[0013] To avoid these drawbacks, the cabling of the weighing
modules is replaced in U.S. Pat. No. 6,919,516 to Frye by a radio
transmission and individual independent power supplies of the
individual weighing modules. The distribution device functions in
this case as a radio relay for the transmission of the signals from
the weighing modules to the processor device. Furthermore, the
distribution device, too, is equipped with an independent power
supply in order to eliminate all cabling. Batteries are used for
the individual independent power supplies of the weighing modules
and the distribution device. However, this solution has the
disadvantage that the charge level of the batteries has to be
checked at regular intervals, and that insufficiently charged
batteries have to be recharged or exchanged. Besides, typically the
performance of the batteries depends strongly on extraneous
influence factors of the environment, in particular the ambient
temperature. Expensive checking and monitoring activities are
therefore required in order to ensure a stable, reliable operation
of the weighing modules, particularly in outdoor applications.
[0014] It, therefore, an objective to propose a multiple
force-measuring device, in particular a multiple weighing device, a
force-measuring module, and a method of operating said multiple
force-measuring device, whereby a simple and cost-effective design
configuration as well as a fail-safe operation can be achieved.
SUMMARY
[0015] This objective is met by a multiple force-measuring device,
a force-measuring module and a method with the features specified
in the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are presented
in additional, dependent claims.
[0016] The multiple force-measuring device, in particular a
multiple weighing device, has at least two force-measuring modules,
each of which includes a force-measuring cell and an electrical
power delivery means, with a power supply unit that serves to
supply the force-measuring modules with electrical power. The power
delivery means of at least one force-measuring module in this
arrangement is connected directly or by way of a junction element
to a control cable that is connected to the power supply unit, and
the at least two force-measuring modules are connected directly to
each other by means of a module-connection cable which serves to
transfer electrical power. With this cabling arrangement, the
overall cable length of the multiple force-measuring device can be
reduced, because the sum of all cable lengths for direct
connections between the force-measuring modules is always smaller
than for a star-shaped distribution arrangement. The result is a
cost-effective design configuration which in addition, due to its
clear and simple structure, makes it easy to recognize failures
during operation and maintenance.
[0017] Besides, there is no need for distribution cables,
distribution devices, segment couplers and segment conductors. By
eliminating these devices and cable connections, the fail-safety of
the force-measuring device can be improved significantly. These
advantages are brought to bear particularly in the assembly and
operation of larger installations, as the complexity of the
installation increases only to an insignificant extent with an
increasing number of force-measuring modules.
[0018] The term "power delivery means" encompasses all devices that
serve to supply the force-measuring module with electric power,
such as supply cables, distribution cables, voltage converter,
current converters, stabilizers, smoothing elements or filter
elements. Also included are the voltage supplies for communication
leads, for example the CAN power supply of a CAN bus communication
system.
[0019] The term "cable" includes all kinds of electrical conductor
lines such as single-lead or multi-lead cables, stranded
conductors, or wires, as well as the delivery of electrical current
through fixed devices such as ground rails, housings and connecting
rods. The junction element can be realized in the most different
ways, for example as a simple T-element, as a housing with
connector terminals, as a forked cable or as a cable breakout.
[0020] In a further embodiment, at least three force-measuring
modules are connected in chain-like manner to each other by means
of the module-connection cable, with the first force-measuring
module and the last force-measuring module in the chain each being
connected directly or through the junction element to the control
cable. With this arrangement of supplying current through more than
one in-feed connection, one achieves a clear reduction in the
voltage drop at the force-measuring modules, particularly at those
force-measuring modules that are supplied with current or with
electrical energy by way of a large number of other force-measuring
modules arranged in between in the chain. Furthermore, the junction
element in this embodiment can be of a particularly simple
configuration, as only two force-measuring modules have to be
connected to the control cable. With this arrangement, a
particularly simple and cost-effective design is achieved for the
multiple force-measuring device.
[0021] In a special embodiment, no more than one force-measuring
module is connected to the control cable. Thus, the junction
element can be omitted, whereby the number of required components
is reduced and thus the fail-safety is improved.
[0022] Further, in a preferred embodiment all force-measuring
modules are connected to each other in a chain-like manner by means
of a module-connection cable. In this way, one achieves a
particularly simple, clear and cost-effective arrangement.
[0023] In a further embodiment, each of the force-measuring modules
includes a means of communication, and through the
module-connection cable it is in addition possible to transmit
communication signals between these means of communication. This
transmission can be realized in particular by means of a bus
system, in appropriate cases by means of a CAN bus system. This
concept avoids the need to arrange an additional communication
setup. Besides, a bus topology can be combined in a particularly
advantageous way with the chain-like arrangement of the
force-measuring modules. The communication signals can in this case
be directed through separate leads independent of the power supply
line in the module-connection cable, as well as together with the
power supply line through common leads in the module-connection
cable.
[0024] In the same manner as in the module-connection cable, the
communication, likewise, can be transmitted through the control
cable, for example through separate leads, or together with the
power supply through common leads.
[0025] The term "communication means" encompasses all elements that
serve for the transmission of data, in particular sender- and
receiver elements, processing elements for analog and/or digital
data, transponders, impedance converters, transmitters, conductor
terminals, plug connectors or couplings. The communication signals
can be of analog or digital nature in the form of measurement
values, pre-processed measurement values, intermediate values or
final measurement results, computed results, time records of
events, in particular times when threshold values were exceeded.
Furthermore, additional data and measurement parameters can be
transmitted, for example identification data of the force-measuring
modules, data regarding the time and location of measurements, or
information about the operating states of the force-measuring
modules. Furthermore, data such as control information, operating
parameters, control programs, or calibration data can be
transmitted to the force-measuring modules.
[0026] Preferably, the communication signals of the force-measuring
modules are transmitted to a terminal or from a terminal. The
terminal can in this case be configured as a lead computer, as a
system controller, a process control system, but also as a simple
output instrument, for example as a display screen and/or as a
printer. Particularly in smaller installations, the functions of
power supply, processing of the measurements, control of the
force-measuring device, and display can be combined in one device,
for example in an office computer.
[0027] In a further embodiment, each of the force-measuring modules
has a device for determining and/or monitoring the electrical
voltage of the power delivery means. The device can in particular
serve to determine and/or monitor the positive voltage and/or the
negative voltage, wherein the voltages can be determined and/or
monitored, if applicable in reference to a common potential, in
particular the ground potential. Valuable information can thereby
be gained regarding the operating condition of the power supply of
the force-measuring modules as well as regarding the condition of
the module-connection cable.
[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the monitoring of the voltage is
accomplished by examining whether the measured values are within
threshold values, and if the threshold values were found to be
exceeded, actions are triggered such as transmitting messages
and/or recalibrating or switching off the respective
force-measuring module. This makes it possible on the one hand that
failures in the force-measuring modules and/or the
module-connection cables are recognized early and on the other hand
that the location of these errors can be pinpointed more easily.
With this concept, the monitoring can be active during the
installation and/or calibration as well as during operation of the
force-measuring device.
[0029] Furthermore, by determining the voltage of the power
delivery device and/or the time profile of said voltage, one
obtains essential information about the current condition and
anticipated future operating experience of the force-measuring
module. Thus, these data can provide information in regard to
anticipated future servicing needs, the advancement of the aging
process, the change of the ambient conditions, or the anticipated
remaining operating life of the force-measuring modules. For
example a strong rate of change of the voltage in a cell can
indicate a corrosion-related damage in the coupling device of a
force-measuring module. This monitoring surveillance is
particularly advantageous in large installations with a multitude
of force-measuring modules.
[0030] The threshold values can be determined through theoretical
calculations, taking into account in particular the characteristic
quantities of the module-connection cable such as the length and
cross-section of the conductor lines and/or the internal resistance
values of the force-measuring module, and/or through reference
measurements. The reference measurement values can be obtained
preferably from measurements in a newly installed and/or newly
calibrated force-measuring device and stored in a memory unit. The
reference values and/or threshold values can also be taken from
manuals and operating instructions. In addition, they can also be
specified by the manufacturer or transmitted to the installation
from the manufacturer as needed. It is particularly advantageous to
store the reference values and/or the threshold values in the
individual force-measuring modules, whereby a modular
interchangeability of the modules can be achieved.
[0031] In a further embodiment, all module-connection cables have a
largely identical conductor resistance, in particular largely
identical lengths, materials and conductor cross-sections. In this
case, the threshold values are particularly easy to determine
through calculations of voltage divider circuits.
[0032] In a further embodiment, the junction element and/or the
force-measuring modules include a device for the monitoring of the
termination of the communication connection and/or for effecting
the termination. Since the lack of a termination can cause problems
in the transmission of the communication signals, this concept
allows the problems to be detected and reported or even to be
automatically corrected by the force-measuring device.
[0033] In a further embodiment, the force-measuring module or the
module-connection cable includes a device for interrupting the
continuity in the power supply circuit. This provides the
possibility to ensure that the delivery of power is limited to a
certain maximum number of force-measuring modules. Thereby it can
be assured for example that the supply current can be transmitted
between a maximum of four power delivery means. This allows the
maximum power being transmitted through the power supply, in
particular the maximum current, to be kept below a certain maximum
value.
[0034] This limitation of the current is particularly important in
hazardous environments where an explosion danger exists and where
special regulatory requirements have to be met in regard to the
maximum current consumption of the force-measuring modules and/or
the force-measuring device. Furthermore, this interruption allows
the force-measuring device to be subdivided into different,
independently supplied subsystems. This separation can be achieved
for example by means of manual or electromagnetic switches or by
means of a special module-connection cable. In the case of the
special module-connection cable it is possible for example that the
communication leads have contact connectors providing a continuous
conductive path, while the leads for the power supply have no
contacting connectors, so that the conductive path is interrupted.
The conformance to the regulations on current limitation can also
be monitored by the terminal, and a reconfiguration of the
force-measuring device can be effected through appropriate control
commands from the terminal to the force-measuring modules.
[0035] In a further preferred embodiment, the force-measuring
module also includes at least one plug connector, in particular two
plug connectors where the module-connection cable and/or the
control cable can be connected. This provides an efficient way of
setting up, testing and servicing the force-measuring device.
[0036] In a further embodiment, force-measuring module includes a
plug connector which is encapsulated against environmental
influences, in particular dirt, liquids or gases and/or whose at
least one electrical contact surface is designed to be
corrosion-resistant. With this measure, a fail-safe operation of
the installation is also achieved in particular in harsh ambient
conditions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] Details of the disclosed force-measuring device, the
force-measuring module, and the method will become evident from the
description of the examples of embodiments represented in the
drawings, wherein:
[0038] FIG. 1 is a schematic depiction of a multiple
force-measuring device with two force-measuring modules, each of
which includes a force-measuring cell, a power delivery means, and
a communication means, which are connected to a controller device
by way of module-connection cables and a control cable;
[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates a multiple force-measuring device
according to the state of the art in the form of a truck-weighing
installation with two measuring plates, each of which is supported
by four force-measuring modules;
[0040] FIG. 3 shows a configuration of a multiple force-measuring
device, similar to the FIG. 2 device, but wherein the
force-measuring modules are connected directly to each other in a
chain-like arrangement through a module-connection cable, and
wherein the first and the last force-measuring module of the chain
is connected through a forked cable with a junction element to the
control cable;
[0041] FIG. 4 depicts an embodiment of the FIG. 3 multiple
force-measuring device, but with two force-measuring modules, each
of which measures the weight contributions from two measuring
plates;
[0042] FIG. 5 depicts a further embodiment of the FIG. 3 multiple
force-measuring device, but with a direct connection of an
individual force-measuring module to the control cable; and
[0043] FIG. 6 is a simplified circuit schematic of the multiple
force-measuring device with a power supply unit, 1 to n
force-measuring modules, conductor resistances, electrical voltages
and a common ground connection.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0044] FIG. 1 shows a multiple force-measuring device 200 in the
form of a tank-load weighing device. For the weighing of a
container, a plurality of force-measuring modules 244 are arranged
between the feet of the container 230 and the foundation 231, so
that each foot of the container 230 rests on a force-measuring
module 244. In order to determine the weight of the container
and/or of its contents, the measurement values determined by the
force-measuring modules 244 need to be added, as each measurement
value represents a part of the mass. To perform the addition, the
measurement values of the individual force-measuring modules 244
are transmitted to a terminal 206, where they are processed and
presented on the display 207. The terminal 206 is arranged in a
remotely located controller device 280.
[0045] The force-measuring module 244 includes a force-measuring
cell 210 which is enclosed in a housing 220. Typically, the housing
220 is welded to the force-measuring cell 210 and tightly sealed
against the ambient environment of the force-measuring device 200.
In performing a measurement, the force-measuring cell 210, as well
as the housing 220, is elastically compressed. The deformation of
the force-measuring cell 210 is measured by means of the
force-measuring cell 210 and directed to a communication means
248.
[0046] The power supply of the force-measuring module 244, in
particular of the associated electronic circuit, the
force-measuring cell 210 and the communication means 248 is made
possible by a power delivery means 246 which, in turn, is supplied
by the power supply PS. This power supply unit 270 of the multiple
force-measuring device 200 is arranged in the controller device 280
and incorporated in the terminal 206.
[0047] The force-measuring modules 244 are connected directly to
each other by means of a module-connection cable 250. This
module-connection cable 250 can transmit the supply current PS as
well as the communication C between the force-measuring modules
244. The module-connection cable 250 therefore connects the power
delivery means 246 and the communication means 248 of the
individual force-measuring modules 244 to each other. Further, a
force-measuring module 244 is connected through a control cable 205
to the controller device 280. The control cable 205, the so-called
home-run cable bridges the often major distance between the
force-measuring module 244 and the controller device 280 and thus
establishes the immediate connection to the controller device
280.
[0048] This power supply unit 270 of the multiple force-measuring
device 200 is arranged in the controller device 280 and
incorporated in the terminal 206. The distribution of the power
supply PS occurs through the control cable 205 and the
module-connection cable 250 to the power delivery means 246 of the
individual force-measuring modules 244.
[0049] In the same way, the communication means 248 of the
force-measuring modules are connected to the terminal 206 in order
to transmit the signals of the communication C, in particular the
measurement values, the processed results and the control commands.
This communication C is transmitted bidirectionally from the
communication means 248 to the terminal 206, i.e. from the
communication means 248 through the module-connection cable 250 and
the control cable 205 to the terminal 206 in the controller device
280.
[0050] To illustrate the existing state of the art, FIG. 2
schematically represents a multiple force-measuring device 100 in
the form of a truck scale. The latter has two independent measuring
plates 140, each of which is supported by four force-measuring
modules 144. For the weighing, the trucks are put on the measuring
plates, and the resultant forces are measured by means of the
force-measuring modules 144. The processing of the measurement
results occurs in the terminal 106.
[0051] Each force-measuring module 144 is connected through a
distribution line 101 to a distribution device 102. The
distribution device 102, in turn, is connected through a segment
cable to a segment coupler 104. The segment coupler 104, finally,
is connected through a control cable 105 to the controller device
180. The segment coupler 104 couples two independent, physically
separated segments of the multiple force-measuring device 100
together. A segment is in each case formed by a measuring plate
140, the associated force-measuring modules 144, the distribution
lines 101, the distribution device 102, and the segment cable
103.
[0052] The power supply unit 170 is incorporated in the terminal
106 which includes a display 107 and which is arranged in the
controller device 180. The distribution of the power supply PS
occurs through the control cable 105, the segment coupler 104, the
segment cable 103 and the distribution device 102, and finally
through the distribution line 101 to the individual force-measuring
modules 144. In the opposite direction the measurement values of
the force-measuring modules are transmitted to the terminal 106,
i.e. from the force-measuring module 144 through the distribution
line 101, the distribution device 102, the segment cable 103, the
segment coupler 104, and the control cable 105 to the terminal
106.
[0053] FIG. 3 shows a configuration of the multiple force-measuring
device 300. The force-measuring modules 344 are connected to each
other directly as a chain through module-connection cables 350.
These module-connection cables 350 can transmit the power supply PS
as well as the communication C between the force-measuring modules
344. The module-connection cable 350 therefore connects the power
delivery means 246 and the communication means 248 of the
individual force-measuring modules 344 to each other.
[0054] The communication C can for example consist of the
transmission of measurement values and their processed results in
one direction and of control commands in the opposite direction.
This bidirectional communication C can be transmitted through
separate cable connections independent of the power supply PS
and/or together with the power supply conductors in separate leads
within the same cable and/or in the power supply leads, preferably
as a modulated signal.
[0055] The module-connection cable 350 is at both ends connected to
force-measuring modules 344 by means of plug connectors 352.
Accordingly, each force-measuring module 344 has two plug
connectors 352, through which the two neighboring modules in the
chain can be respectively connected. However, in the case of the
first and the last force-measuring module 344, only one neighboring
module of the chain is connected.
[0056] Furthermore, the first and the last force-measuring module
344 in the chain are each connected through a forked cable 354 and
a junction element 356 to the control cable 305. The fork junction
element is in this case configured as a simple T-junction and
serves to split the power supply PS and the communication C into
respective branches leading to the first and the last
force-measuring module 344 of the chain. Accordingly, the
distribution lines 101, distribution devices 102, segment cables
103 and segment couplers 104 are absent in this arrangement.
[0057] Finally, the power supply PS provided by the power supply
unit 370 to the force-measuring modules 344 as well as the
communication C between the terminal 306 and the force-measuring
modules 344 are transmitted through the control cable 305. Besides,
in this embodiment the force-measuring modules 344 are supplied
with power or with electrical energy not by the terminal 306 but by
a separate power supply unit 370. The power supply unit 370
together with the terminal 306 and the display 307 is located in
the controller device 380.
[0058] A further embodiment of the multiple force-measuring device
300 is illustrated in FIG. 4. This embodiment is analogous to the
embodiment of FIG. 3, except that two of the force-measuring
modules 344 are used so that each of them measures the weight
contributions from both measuring plates 340. This double force
introduction can be achieved for example with a flexibly supported
mechanical device. As a result of this arrangement the number of
force-measuring modules 344 required is reduced from eight to
six.
[0059] A further embodiment of the multiple force-measuring device
is represented in FIG. 5. This arrangement is analogous to that of
FIG. 3, except that in this case only one force-measuring module
344 is connected to the control cable 305. Thus, the forked cable
354 and the junction element 356 are not needed, which makes this
arrangement particularly cost-effective and stable.
[0060] Furthermore, the module-connection cables 350 are connected
at one end to a plug connector 352 and at the other end directly to
the force-measuring module 344. The direct connection can be
realized for example as a clamped connection, a screw connection, a
fixed wiring connection or a soldered connection. With this
arrangement, a further cost savings can be achieved as well as an
increase in stability.
[0061] FIG. 6 shows a simplified block schematic of the multiple
force-measuring device 200 with a power supply unit 270, 1 to n
force-measuring modules 244(1) . . . 244(n), conductor resistances
R.sub.HR, R.sub.IC, electrical voltages V.sub.LC1+, . . . ,
V.sub.LCn+, . . . , V.sub.LC1-, . . . , V.sub.LCn-, and a common
ground connection GND.
[0062] The conductor resistances R.sub.HR, R.sub.IC represent the
respective resistance values R.sub.HR of the control cable 205 and
R.sub.IC of the module-connection cable 250. Accordingly, a
positive voltage and a negative voltage V.sub.LCi- of the power
supply relative to the common ground potential can be measured at
each force-measuring module 244(i), 1.ltoreq.i.ltoreq.n. These
voltages are characteristic for each individual force-measuring
module 244(1) . . . 244(n). The ground potential is set by the
cable screen and/or by the housings of the force-measuring modules
244(1) . . . 244(n) and in particular by connecting the entire
force-measuring device 200 to ground.
[0063] Preferably, the measured voltages V.sub.LC1+, . . . ,
V.sub.LCn+, V.sub.LC1-, . . . , V.sub.LCn- are compared to the
expected values or to threshold values and/or tolerance values.
When these values are exceeded, this is communicated to the
terminal through specific signals. The terminal can trigger actions
accordingly, such as alerting, informing or warning the user, or
correcting the measurement values, or calibrating or adjusting the
measuring device.
[0064] In this embodiment, the conductor resistances R.sub.IC of
the module-connection cables 250 are largely identical. This can be
achieved through a suitable choice of the length, materials and
conductive cross-section of the individual conductor lines in the
module-connection cable 250. In this way, the values to be expected
and the corresponding threshold values for the voltage V.sub.LC1+,
. . . , V.sub.LCn+, V.sub.LC1-, . . . , V.sub.LCn- can be found
through a simple calculation. In like manner, largely identical
conductor resistance values R.sub.HR of the control cable 205 are
achieved through a suitable choice of the leads of the control
cable 205. However, a calculation of the values to be expected and
of the threshold values can also be performed without a problem for
conductor resistances of arbitrary magnitude.
[0065] In the embodiments, the communication means 248 can,
depending on the configuration of the multiple force-measuring
device 200 and the terminal 206, automatically transmit pertinent
information to the terminal 206 either continuously or periodically
and/or at random or after a change has occurred. Of course it is
also possible that the terminal 206 interrogates the communication
means 248 for information such as measurement values or measurement
results either continuously or periodically and/or according to the
principle of randomization.
[0066] The method described herein can be performed by means of
centralized and/or decentralized parts of a controller device of an
installation, for example with the terminal 206 and/or the
force-measuring module 244, which are for this purpose equipped
with the appropriate operating programs. However, it is also
possible to divide the tasks between different levels of the
process control. Through appropriate measures, the method can thus
be implemented on any single-level or multi-level installations at
little cost. The terminal 206 and/or the junction element 256 can
also be installed in a mobile instrument which can, through radio
connections, call for individual measurement values and/or
measurement results. For the radio communication, the individual
force-measuring modules 244 can be given an identification code, as
is known and being practiced in state-of-the-art solutions for many
applications.
* * * * *