Weight sensing apparatus with piezoelectric transducer
US11326934B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 1, 2020 |
| Grant date | May 10, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 22, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/10
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus includes a platform or other accessory that is supported by one or more piezoelectric transducers. As items are placed on or removed from the accessory, the piezoelectric transducer generates an electric charge that is representative of a change in weight. An amplifier receives the charge and provides output voltage that can be sampled to determine a weight value. In one implementation the platform may be supported by a transducer assembly comprising a frame and a pair of piezoelectric transducers on opposite sides of the frame. Signals from the pair may be used to compensate for environmental effects on the assembly, such as changes in temperature. The piezoelectric transducers and associated circuitry are extremely energy efficient, consuming little electrical power during operation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.