DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF A DIGITAL WEIGHT SCALE

Abstract

Measurement is an age old concept to man. Accurate measurement of human weight has become of utmost importance in this age where a number of health conditions can be tied to excess weight. This project discusses out the construction of a digital weight scale bearing in mind cost effectiveness, locally available components and portability without undermining sensitivity. The load balance system used is similar to that of any analog bathroom scale as this system has been proven to be reliable and convenient over time. A potentiometer is attached to the spring controlled lever in the load balance system. This potentiometer serves as a sensor converting the mechanical movement to a proportional voltage output. This output voltage is converted by an analog to digital converter Ie to its digital equivalent which is then manipulated to be displayed on the seven segment digit display_ The value displayed is the weight ofthe person on the platform (cover) ofthe scale. The construction was as desired though the results obtained were at variance with the anticipated results. Jt functions well for human weight measurement.