Mechanical floor scales: types, device, how to choose

Advantages and disadvantages

Mechanical devices are necessary to control body weight. They show the correspondence of weight to height and age - the state of human health.

Advantages of mechanical floor scales:

the cost is low;
strength;
no special storage conditions required;
understandable to anyone;
operation does not depend on electricity or batteries;
easy to use;
long service life.

Disadvantages of mechanical floor scales:

error;
no additional features;
limiting the weight of the person being weighed.

Installation of mechanical floor scales

Mechanical scales are a device consisting of a platform and a housing. The top is equipped with a scale protected by a plastic or glass coating.

The movable platform consists of four fixed legs, four metal arms connected in pairs, a horizontal plate, a spring and a rocker. The rocker arm connects to the pointer, monitors the tension of the spring, and changes the position of the pointer.

The basis of the design is represented by a measuring spring, which stretches during weighing. The spring is a measuring element. The sensing element is attached to a horizontal plate.

When a weight (an object, a person) acts on the scale platform, the spring moves down. The stretching changes the value of the hand on the dial.

Mechanical scales are easy to use. To begin with, it is installed on a flat, level, hard surface. This eliminates the error that will occur when installing the scales on a carpet or soft surface.

If it is necessary to carry out regular weighings with recording of exact changes in body weight, the device is installed in the same place, since when moving there is a risk of being placed on an uneven surface.

The scale control is adjusted to zero. To ensure that the hand is positioned correctly, look for the colored or bold mark on the dial indicating the start of the calculation.

Be careful when standing on the device. First, place one foot, make sure that it is standing steadily and does not wobble. Then move the other leg.

To accurately determine body weight, it is recommended to weigh yourself at the same time of day, remove shoes and clothes. The procedure is carried out 2 hours after waking up. If you weigh yourself after a meal, the readings will not be accurate, so it is better to carry out the procedure before a meal or after a few hours.

Operating principle [edit | edit code ]

Lever scales [ edit | edit code ]

Lever scales are scales in which the transmission device is a lever or a system of levers.

Equal scales [edit | edit code ]

Libra [edit | edit code ]

In equal-arm lever scales, the weight suspension points (m1 and m2) and the fulcrum point form an isosceles triangle (yoke) with a height h and a vertex at the fulcrum. When an isosceles triangle (yoke) is rotated through an angle α, one arm increases and the other decreases. The rotation of the rocker stops when the torques are equal: m1*l1=m2*l2, m1/m2=l2/l1, where l1 and l2 are the torque arms. The angle of rotation of the rocker arm can be calibrated in units of mass (quantity). The smaller the height of the triangle - h, the smaller the change in the arms when turning and the greater the sensitivity of the scales. Such a device corresponds to a state of stable equilibrium.

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Equilibrium [edit | edit code ]

At zero height of the triangle h=0 (as it is sometimes drawn in some articles), the rocker arm turns from a triangle into a straight line. When turning a straight rocker, the length of the arms changes equally, the ratio l1/l2 does not change and equilibrium is not established. Such a device corresponds to a state of indifferent equilibrium. When weighing on an equilibration system, there is no stable equilibrium position and equilibrium is determined by the indifferent position of the rocker arm when manually deflecting to the left and right.

Comparator [edit | edit code ]

If the support point is below the suspension points, then such a device works as a comparator or trigger, that is, it determines only which of the two masses is greater and which is less (quality). Such a device corresponds to a state of unstable equilibrium.

Different-shouldered scales [edit | edit code ]

The equilibrium conditions are completely different from those in equal-arm balances. Single-weight multi-arm scales, shown in the figure on the right, reduce the number of weights (weights) and the likelihood of their loss, that is, they have increased reliability, but have a greatly reduced range of weighed loads. The scale of the weights is non-linear, compressed at the edges of the weight range and stretched in the middle of the weight range.

Smart scales [edit | edit code ]

Smart scales are a device that can determine a number of physiological indicators of the body by transmitting data to a smartphone.

Criteria for smart scales]:

determine not only weight, but also other body parameters (BMI, percentage of fat, bone, muscle tissue, etc.);
synchronized with a smartphone;
differentiate between users.

Some models of smart scales are equipped not only with sensors for the body, but also with environmental sensors, such as temperature and air quality (CO2 content). Also, there are scales with calorie counting, inside of which there is a nutritional guide, each index (food product) is indicated content of proteins, fats, carbohydrates. [5]

Types of mechanical floor scales

Household

The most common type for home use. Easy to use. It is enough to install them correctly and you can start weighing. Affordable, strong, durable. When choosing this unit, check it for errors. To do this, you need to weigh an object whose mass is precisely determined, for example a package of salt. Various models show from 100 to 500 grams.

Medical

Mechanical scales are used to determine the weight of sick people and patients undergoing rehabilitation.

Weighing is carried out on two scales that need to be configured. When weighing, a lock (special lever) releases the rocker arm (a part of the lever mechanism).

By moving the weight along one scale it is necessary to achieve an equal level. Once this is done, the exact same process is repeated for the exact scale. The values are read from both scales of floor mechanical scales and summed up.

This scale is not intended for home use. Since the dimensions are large, and the unpresentable appearance is unlikely to suit the design of the house. There are floor-mounted options with a height gauge. With them it is convenient to immediately calculate the correspondence of height and weight.

Trading

Similar to medical scales, but more accurate. A distinctive feature is the increased platform area. Its surface is made of durable steel and is very smooth.

Industrial

They are even larger in size. Measure from hundreds of kilograms to hundreds of tons.

Location of industrial models:

factory;
customs;
transport control point;
stock.

How to choose a mechanical bathroom scale

Load

The choice of scales is determined by the intended weight of the measurement. The device for home use determines weight from 1 to 150 kilograms. The maximum figure reaches 250 kg.

Weight

Depending on the size of the platform, material, type of dial, as well as the presence of additional accessories, the weight of the scale changes. Compact scales weigh about a kilogram. A more massive device - 2 kg +/-0.5 kg.

Scale feet

The bottom of the device is equipped with legs, usually four of them. Serves as a support. The material used to make the legs is plastic or metal. Sometimes they are rubberized, which provides additional protection against slipping.

Division

The markings of most models are calculated in one kilogram; there are scales with marks of 0.5 kg.

LCD screen

Some models have an electronic display, but the mechanism of action is the same spring. The deviation is measured by a special sensor.

The accuracy of this is established during production, reaching an error value of ten or one hundred fractions of a kilogram. The readings are much easier to read.

Material

The weight of the scale, appearance, and service life depend on the composition of the case.

If the body is made of metal, it is more durable and resistant to mechanical stress. The cost will become much higher.

Plastic ones are characterized by a long service life if the plastic is of high quality. But the composition of the case will not provide protection from damage due to falls or impacts. And low-quality ones break under a person being weighed.

Availability of a rug

Some models are equipped with a corrugated pad, which prevents the person from slipping when weighing.

Sight glass material

There are two types of display coating - glass or plastic. The plastic is susceptible to clouding and scratches. Over time, the appearance will deteriorate and it will be difficult to look at the scale. Tempered glass stays clear longer.

Dimensions

The model range is represented by scales with different digit sizes. If you have vision problems, choose a large dial with large numbers. Better with red marks.

Additional equipment

A height and weight chart helps determine fitness levels. Using special marks (colored markers), the previous weighing result is saved or the current weight value is recorded. The function is convenient when comparing body weight indicators.

Design

The standard shapes are circle and square. There are also oval, rectangular and triangular. A wide palette of colors is possible.

Models

There are various models of electronic measuring instruments on the market. Let's highlight the most popular:

Medisana40419TargetScale. Multifunctional scales costing about 15,000 rubles. It is possible to synchronize them with any gadget, allowing you to view the readings right in front of you, and not under your feet. Allows you to display graphs based on weight, body fat, blood pressure, body temperature, and sugar levels. It has a very interesting modern design and at the same time has simple and convenient controls.
TefalPP1110. Inexpensive scales, the platform of which is made of glass. Maximum weight – 160 kg, measurement accuracy within 100 grams, automatic on and off function. There are no requirements for floor coverings - they work on carpets, tiles, and linoleum. A simple model for which the functionality described in the first model is not available, but the price is absolutely affordable.
SUPRABSS-6200GN. A budget device that allows you to calculate body mass index, fat and muscle content.
Beurer Bf-100. The most accurate specimen has 8 electrodes that transmit information to a computer that can remember data for several users.

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Electronic scales are a necessary device for regular use. They allow you to control body weight, fat and muscle composition, and if we talk about luxury models, then other important vital indicators. By purchasing a quality item, you can save on purchasing other devices and guarantee the accuracy of the measurements obtained. And having studied the characteristics of electronic scales and the principle of their operation, you will be able to quickly eliminate any problems that arise in their system.

Very often a person gets the idea that he needs to take care of his health. One of the extremely important indicators that a person is at risk of trouble (for example, in the form of a stroke or heart attack) is being overweight. To constantly monitor this characteristic of your body, you should have a bathroom scale at hand. Currently, there are two main types on the household appliance market: home mechanical floor scales and electronic floor scales.

Mechanical bathroom scales

The principle of operation of mechanical scales is that the spring of the scale stretches and, under its influence, turns the arrow or the dial itself. How to set up mechanical scales? Yes, very simple. This can be done using a special wheel on the end of the device. They show body weight with an accuracy of 0.5 to 1 kg. As a rule, the maximum weight is limited to 150 kg. Naturally, the error of mechanical scales is slightly greater than that of electronic ones. At the same time, ease of maintenance can be considered a significant advantage of mechanical scales.

How to choose mechanical bathroom scales?

When choosing mechanical floor scales, pay attention to how stable they are and whether the design contains devices that allow you to level their position on uneven floors. Naturally, you shouldn’t skimp on the body of the scales. It’s better to immediately buy scales in a reliable metal case than to worry about cracked plastic later. It is desirable that the surface of mechanical scales be corrugated or rough. This will prevent you from slipping on them if you want to weigh yourself after a shower and step on the scale with wet feet. It would be a good idea to check the scale's accuracy before purchasing. To do this, you need to know your exact weight or bring with you something whose weight you know for sure (for example, a kilogram of packaged sugar). When checking the accuracy of mechanical scales, you need to press hard on them and then quickly release them. At this moment, the scale needle should quickly return to zero. If you have vision problems, then it is best to buy mechanical scales with a dial, the numbers are large and painted in red paint.

This is a much more complex device. Unlike mechanical scales, readings are displayed on a monochrome display. The principle is based on the functioning of a voltage sensor. It looks like a wire that, starting to stretch, changes the voltage of the current that is supplied to it. The sensor value is then interpreted by the scale's electronics and ultimately displays your body weight. The scale division price varies from 0.1 to 0.5 kg. To operate the scale, a 1.5 or 9 volt battery is usually used. In the most advanced models, operation is provided by solar energy or by the principle of converting energy created by human mechanical action into electricity (such scales do not need an additional battery). The device is turned on automatically (when the owner of the scale stands on it) or using a separate button. The weighing error ranges from 100 to 1000g. The maximum load (depending on the manufacturer and cost) varies from 100 to 220 kg.

Another parameter of this type of scale is the memory capacity (the device is able to remember several measurements, as well as the values of several users of the scale). Thanks to electronics, scale users have access to a large number of different options: calculating body mass index; function of calculating the ratio of the mass of fat and muscle tissue (very approximately, with a large degree of error); the ability to sound an alarm if there are significant changes in your weight; the presence of a separate display made using wireless technologies.

What kind of scales, electronic or mechanical, should you buy for home use?

The disadvantages of mechanical floor scales include the following facts:

Low measurement accuracy (this type shows mass accurate to the nearest kilogram);
Inability to store results by the device.

Much lower price (when compared with the electronic version);
No need for batteries;
Ease of setup;
Significant service life (the simpler the device, the more durable it is).

Electronic home scales will delight you:

There is no need, every time you want to weigh yourself, to set the scale to the zero measurement mark (this happens automatically);
Low error (in expensive models, weighing is available with an accuracy of 100g);
Suitable for even the largest members of your family (maximum weight can reach 220 kg);
The ability to record your weight over time.

The only thing that can disappoint them is the need to replace the battery (usually no more than once a year).

Malfunctions

Connecting elements have fallen out

The body is held together by two metal parts, which fall out when the sash is pulled apart. Reason: they are held by the force of squeezing parts of the body. To install them back, the scales are disassembled and the fallen elements are put back in their original places in the grooves. The cover is installed in place.

The scale measures your weight incorrectly

The measuring spring forms the basis of the mechanism. It stretches in proportion to the weight being weighed. If the weight is indicated incorrectly, but naturally, you can do without repairs. Set the amount of error, subtract extra pounds with each measurement.
The adjustment is made with a trim screw. If you twist it, the scale values will change in any direction. This normalizes the measurement. The arrow shows zero after weighing. When the starting weight changes every time, the problem is with the spring. Such a malfunction can only be eliminated with a new spring.

The scale mechanism jams

If the shoulders or base are bent, the reason is that the permitted weight has been exceeded. The case is carefully disassembled and the damage is eliminated by restoring the parts. For this, a hammer, vice, and anvil are used. The bent part should be straightened not inside, but by first removing it.

Failure of load-bearing parts

If the permitted weight is exceeded, the legs are damaged and need to be replaced.

Modern and technological electronic scales

The first electric scales had a mechanism as simple as mechanical ones, but they were still more accurate and more modern. Low-cost electronic devices are not very different from mechanical ones, but they are still better than them. But more expensive devices are just like a separate small computer that knows about many parameters of your body.

Now more and more smart scales are being produced - these are definitely small computers. Some measure mass based on a voltage sensor, others use special plates. Modern devices also have user-friendly designs. Let's consider which one is better. Of course, modern electronic devices break down more often than mechanical ones, since there are more functions and many complex components have been introduced for this purpose. But when you spend your money, you will appreciate the item you purchased, right? Just use it carefully and everything will be fine.

Specifications

Devices operating on metal disks have quite a few mechanical elements. The plates form a system similar to an electric mini-capacitor. In the process of measuring body weight, the metal disks move apart, and the electrical charge between them changes. This is how scales with metal disks work. They can make a mistake up to a figure of 300 grams, but this cannot always be trusted.

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Scales with a voltage sensor are considered more advanced in terms of measuring human weight. The sensor is a system of thin metal wire through which current passes. When someone stands on an electronic device, the wires are stretched, causing a change in the electrical signal. This system allows you to calculate a more accurate number of a person’s weight; the error in such devices is only 50-100 grams. But for such quality and the price is decent, good devices cost good money, but most of them still correspond to the price-quality ratio, so certain devices are worth the money.

Below are the functions and capabilities of modern bathroom scales:

There is a memory where information from all weighings is stored. It’s surprising that such devices are designed for 5-10 people (a very convenient function that remembers everything
What is needed instead of you. Some models even have automatic switching between users, after identifying you first);
Body mass index calculations;
The process of determining the ratio of muscle to fat in the body.
Some kind of intelligence: they themselves understand who is weighing themselves and show the necessary calculations.
If your weight jumps too much in any direction, the electronic device will beep when this occurs.
Turns off and on automatically.

Many of these features explain the high prices of such devices. If the price is too high for you, and you don’t really need modern additions, just take an accurate electric balance without any extra collateral. Modern electronic scales also have their pros and cons.

Advantages of electronics

Good accuracy (thanks to modernity and the good mechanism of the scales themselves);
Modern (design, functions, dial, etc.)
Many additional functions (athletes and those losing weight will find it very useful).

Disadvantages of electronics

High cost of devices (due to great functionality);
It is necessary to comply with storage conditions and treat the device with care (the emphasis is on additional functions, so the strength is low);
Periodic replacement of batteries (such scales operate on batteries, additional costs);
All electric scales are designed for a relatively small weight - up to 200 kilograms on average.

How to use

Do not allow children to play.
Installed away from heat sources.
Storage temperature +10 to +35 degrees.
Do not immerse in water or other liquids.
Do not use fat-dissolving agents.
Do not overload as it will break down.
Protect from blows, shocks, do not throw.
When storing, do not place objects on top.
Stand level on the machine with both feet.

Cleaning and care

Maintenance is simple, regular care will help keep it in excellent condition.

The use of abrasive detergents is not recommended.
Do not wash in the dishwasher.
If heavily soiled, apply a small amount of detergent, then wipe with a damp cloth, without immersing the unit in water or under running water.

Security measures

Do not allow water to get on the platform; the surface will become slippery, causing you to fall.
Store in a dry place, away from direct sunlight.
After use, wipe it with a damp cloth.
Avoid immersion in water, they will fail.
You cannot jump, this will damage the measurement mechanism and other parts.
Use by children or people with health problems only under the supervision of persons ensuring safety.

Mechanical scales are a reliable tool for determining body weight at home.
If used correctly they will last a long time. Advertising from sponsors: // // //