Smart box detects problems with load cells

Edited by the Processingtalk editorial team Jan 17, 2003

Thames Side-Maywood has launched a Smart junction box that constantly monitors the condition of up to four connected load cells, detecting and signalling any error conditions

Costing little more than a traditional 'dumb' alternative, the junction box can minimise batch wastage and potential product re-call caused by incorrect weighing.

The smart junction box also contributes to reduced plant downtime, increased safety, and assists installation and commissioning of load cells.

The on-board microprocessor provides a continuous display of the individual load cell mV/V outputs, or a summated average for all the connected load cells.

An alarm contact is triggered in one of four error conditions; if one or more of the load cells is out of balance with the pre-set error band; if any load cell is operating outside its pre-set range; if the excitation voltage drops; or if any load cell has a short or open circuit.

In such a situation a simple display within the junction box, visible through the transparent lid, provides information identifying the load cell causing the error and the appropriate error code.

The smart junction box is just one of the innovative products within the Thames Side-Maywood instrumentation range.

This range includes simple amplifiers and weight/force display models through to sophisticated GSM based remote monitoring systems and field bus connectivity.