Weight/Volume Scale

#I. Field of the Invention

#The present invention relates generally to the accurate volume measurement of materials, commonly measured by hand using eye estimates such as culinary ingredients, based on weight. This is accomplished conveniently by means of a portable automated weight/density conversion scale. More particularly, the invention provides a relatively inexpensive digitized measuring device that enables easy accurate, repeatable measuring for ingredients of many types for recipes and other uses.

#II. Related Art

#In the drawings, wherein like numerals depict like parts throughout the same:

#FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective representation of a possible embodiment of the invention;

#FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of the automated weight/volume scale system of the invention; and

#The following detailed description includes an illustrative embodiment which is meant to present an example of the inventive concept but should not be taken as limiting in any respect. It should further be noted that whereas the detailed account may recite culinary ingredients and uses, the present invention may be used anywhere similar measurements are required and conversion codes may be provided accordingly. Such applications will occur to those skilled in the art.

#FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a weight/volume scale in accordance with the invention which is shown generally at 10 and includes a weigh platform 12 and raised keyboard 14 with LCD output shown at 16. A printed output is shown at 18,

#FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of the weight/volume scale of the invention similar to that in FIG. 1 with internal parts exposed for clarity. The system shown generally at 20 includes a base or chassis member 22 with associated soft padded feet as at 24 designed to rest on a surface on which the device is to be used. A load receiving element 26, which may be a weighing pan, platform, scoop, hook or any other such device, is shown atop a strain gauge load cell 28 which senses the weight of an object placed in the load receiving element 26, the weight of the load receiving element itself having been compensated. The strain gauge load cell 28 deflects to sense the weight of an object and produces an electric signal output proportional to the deflection which is conducted to a central circuit board 30 which contains the CPU and other conventional control and processing elements. A power source in the form of a battery is shown at 32, also connected to the main electronic circuit board. Keyboard inputs are shown at 34 and 36 and a digital output display is shown at 38 and a printer module is shown at 39.