Question

The strain gage elements in the analog weight scale are mounted on a

(a) Base of weight platform

(b) Hanging weight platform

(c) Loading weight platform

(d) Varying weight platform

This question was posed to me during an interview.

This intriguing question comes from Instrumentation Amplifier topic in chapter Operational Amplifier Applications of Linear Integrated Circuits

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(c) Loading weight platform

Explanation:

In an analog weight scale, strain gauge elements are mounted on the loading weight platform for the following reasons:

1. Direct Measurement: The strain gauges sense the deformation or strain caused by the load applied on the platform. This deformation is directly proportional to the weight of the load.

2. Accuracy: Mounting the strain gauges on the loading platform ensures that the weight applied is accurately translated into an electrical signal, which can then be processed for display.

3. Signal Conditioning: The small changes in resistance of the strain gauges are processed by an instrumentation amplifier, converting them into a measurable output voltage.

Other options, such as the base or hanging weight platform, are not ideal positions for the strain gauge because they do not directly experience the strain from the load applied to the weight scale.