How does a platform scale work?

Have you ever thought, 'How does a platform scale work?'

In this article, we explained what weighing sensors are and why they are an important component of any weighing scale.

　　How does an old-fashioned platform scale work?

Old scales used to use a series of weights to try to keep the sides of the scale level. For example, you can add objects of known weight until you reach equilibrium and can calculate the weight of your item. The old-fashioned scale also requires some manual operation by sliding the counterweight until the balance beam is completely horizontal. However, we are now able to automatically measure weight.

　　How does a modern platform scale work?

Nowadays, most scales use devices called load cells to measure the weight of objects, whether you are using them for medical, industrial, or retail purposes.

A weighing sensor is a type of force gauge composed of sensors used to generate electrical signals, and its size is proportional to the measured force.

Essentially, when any weight is placed on the scale, the load cell will slightly bend, which will cause changes in the electrical signal passing through the load cell. The signal change is caused by the resistance caused by the strain gauge inside the bent symmetric weight sensor.

Then the electronic device (usually a digital weight indicator) reads the signal and converts it into a digital weight value. Then display the value for reading.

Regardless of the complexity of using a scale, whether you are using a scale at home to monitor weight, using a retail platform scale to weigh fresh agricultural products, or using an accurate medical scale, all scales work similarly.

TaiwanIs the scale accurate?

Modern weighing scales have achieved high accuracy, but over time, both analog and digital models need to be recalibrated.

Like most daily items, the scale will wear and tear over time due to the precise mechanism of operating machinery.

Analog signal platform scales can be easily tested and readjusted, but digital scales require the attention of professionals - especially industrial models.

　　How to check the accuracy of the platform scale?

Testing the accuracy of a platform scale is a simple process.

Firstly, take a weight, or any item with weight indicated on the packaging, and be sure to exceed the minimum weighing value of the platform scale.

Place the item on your platform scale.

Check the weight displayed on the scale with the weight indicated on the product packaging.

If the displayed numbers do not match the product weight, you will know that your scale needs to be readjusted.