Revolutionizing Weigh Stations: The Benefits of Remote Kiosks

Weigh stations play a crucial role in ensuring road safety, preventing vehicle overloading, and maintaining infrastructure integrity. These stations are essential for monitoring and regulating the weight of commercial vehicles. However, traditional weigh stations have long been associated with challenges such as traffic congestion, inefficiency, and operational limitations. The emergence of remote kiosks has brought about a transformative shift in the way weigh stations operate. In this article, we will explore the numerous benefits that remote kiosks offer to weigh stations and how they are revolutionizing the industry.

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Enhanced Efficiency

One of the primary advantages of remote kiosks is the significant improvement in the efficiency of weigh station operations. By implementing remote kiosks, authorities can streamline the process of weighing and monitoring vehicles. Rather than relying solely on manual inspections and physical interaction with drivers, remote kiosks leverage advanced technologies such as sensors, cameras, and automated weighing systems. This automation allows for faster processing times, reducing wait times for truck drivers and enabling a smoother flow of traffic through the weigh station.

Increased Accuracy

Traditional weigh stations rely heavily on manual data entry and recording. This process is prone to human error, leading to inconsistencies and inaccuracies in weight measurements. Remote kiosks, on the other hand, employ sophisticated weighing technologies that provide precise and reliable measurements. Automated systems integrated into remote kiosks ensure that the weight data is accurately recorded, minimizing discrepancies and enhancing the overall accuracy of the weighing process. This accuracy improves compliance with weight regulations and strengthens enforcement efforts.

Real-time Data Monitoring

Remote kiosks leverage connectivity and data transmission capabilities, allowing weigh station operators to access real-time data remotely. This feature provides invaluable benefits for monitoring and managing weigh station operations. Operators can monitor traffic patterns, vehicle weights, and other vital information from a centralized location. Real-time data monitoring enables proactive decision-making, such as identifying overweight vehicles before they reach the station, optimizing resource allocation, and facilitating targeted enforcement actions. Overall, remote kiosks empower authorities with comprehensive situational awareness and promote efficient traffic management.

Improved Safety

Weigh stations are not only responsible for enforcing weight regulations but also ensuring road safety. Overloaded vehicles pose significant risks, including compromised braking performance, increased tire wear, and potential damage to road infrastructure. Remote kiosks contribute to improving safety by reducing the time vehicles spend at the weigh station. This reduction in waiting times minimizes the likelihood of accidents caused by traffic congestion near weigh stations. Additionally, the automation of weighing processes reduces the need for manual intervention, decreasing the chances of human error and accidents during the weighing process itself.

Cost-effectiveness and Scalability

Implementing remote kiosks can offer substantial cost savings for weigh station operators. Traditional weigh stations often require significant investments in infrastructure, such as weigh bridges and manned booths. Remote kiosks, on the other hand, have a smaller physical footprint and require fewer personnel. The automated systems integrated into remote kiosks streamline operations, reducing labor costs and increasing productivity. Furthermore, remote kiosks are scalable, allowing for easy deployment and expansion as needed, making them a flexible and cost-effective solution for weigh station management.

Enhanced User Experience

Remote kiosks contribute to an improved user experience for truck drivers and other road users. By minimizing wait times and automating the weighing process, remote kiosks reduce the inconvenience and frustration associated with traditional weigh stations. Truck drivers can quickly and efficiently pass through the weigh station, reducing delays and ensuring timely deliveries. The user-friendly interfaces and intuitive operation of remote kiosks further enhance the overall experience, fostering positive interactions between authorities and the trucking industry.

Conclusion

The integration of remote kiosks has brought significant benefits to weigh stations, revolutionizing the way these critical facilities operate. The efficiency, accuracy, real-time data monitoring, improved safety, cost-effectiveness, scalability, and enhanced user experience offered by remote kiosks have transformed weigh station operations. As technology continues to advance, we can expect further innovations in remote kiosk systems, paving the way for a safer, more efficient, and interconnected road network. By embracing these advancements, authorities can unlock the full potential of remote kiosks and continue to optimize the vital role of weigh stations in the transportation industry.

Costs Of Scale Accessories

The Cost of Extras.

Industrial scale accessories can greatly help with the overall efficiency and productivity of your operation. One of the main questions that is usually asked is “how much will it cost?” which is usually the main factor that determines if one will purchase any sort of product. In this article we will dive into the cost of different accessories for your industrial scale as well as offer our recommendations for accessories in each category. If you have not read our article about Industrial scale accessories, then it would be a good idea to read that as well. 

Indicators

An indicator is a device that turns electrical signals (that are caused by distortions in the base’s load cells) into something that can be read by users. The signals are converted to legible results on the display integrated into the indicator. Indicators include various applications to add functionalities (like counting or checkweighing) to platforms, offer data communication capabilities and buttons to navigate through menus or for sample entry. Essentially scale indicators are an integral part of any industrial scale operation, and because of the vast array of options available, it can prove to be quickly overwhelming to someone just starting their search. 

Types of indicators

Like scales and balances, there are many kinds of indicators. This list includes the most commonly used indicators and their main features are counting, Checkweighing indicators and washdown are the common indicators that you will encounter. Depending on the indicator type will determine the overall cost of the indicator. This section will give a quick overview of the indicators listed as well as the price you will expect to pay.

• Counting: Counting scale indicators You might have noticed most indicators include a counting function. So what makes a counting indicator different? It’s the inclusion of a full numeric keypad. A full numeric keypad allows users to enter sample numbers, unit weight and more quickly and easily. It’s especially useful when dealing with unwieldy numbers (for example, a unit weight of 15.78 grams) and for large inventories. Prices for these types of indicators can range anywhere from $550 to upwards of $2,000. 

• Checkweighing: a dedicated checkweighing indicator is designed to speed up checkweighing tasks. LED indicators or even the whole display will change color to indicate if a sample is over, under or within preset limits. They also often include an audible alarm that sounds when a limit is reached, so users don’t even have to look at the indicator while they work. Checkweighing indicators will range around $450- $1,500. 

• Washdown: These indicators are built to withstand dust, humidity and wet or harsh conditions. Their sturdy housings are rated a minimum of IP67 and often made of easy-to-clean stainless steel. They’re well-suited for weighing tasks in docks, ships, agricultural settings, food processing plants or demanding industrial environments. Combine them with a stainless steel platform for a rugged scale with high performance.

Remote Displays

Remote displays are not an essential part of your weighing operation, but can prove to be beneficial, especially if you are tight on space and need to free up space by mounting it to a wall. When it comes to remote displays, it is entirely up to you to determine if it is something you need. A good way to determine this is by evaluating the environment that you will be weighing the most and then look at if a remote display is necessary. When choosing a remote display, you can choose among a few options. There are single display and multi display options which allow you to view more than just one measurement. The differences are really broken down into the size of the display and also the viewing range of the display, which typically will start at around 150 feet on up. The cost of purchasing a remote display will start around $850 for a standard entry level display, and can reach up to $3,000 for a quad display. 

Printers

Including a printer in your operation is a good way to tie everything together and also have a way to print out measurements when needed. The most common printer used is the thermal printer. Dot Matrix is still used in some places, but is a lot bigger and heavier than a thermal printer, so for the sake of consistency we will just focus on thermal printers. Just like other accessories, it really comes down to preference. Depending on what you want to do, you are able to program the printer to print certain values or a report for the measurements recorded. When looking for a printer to add to your operation, expect to spend anywhere from $530-$1,230 for a 2”-4” thermal printer.

Closing Words

Industrial scale accessories can definitely tie your weight operation together and ensure that it runs in an efficient manner. Equipping your operation with a good digital display, printer and indicator will essentially remove extra steps when going through your entire process. To get a good grasp on what accessories can do for you, then check out our article on industrial scale accessories. Also be sure to check out our scale accessories page. There you can place orders and check prices on all that we carry.

Guide To Scale Accessories

Scale Accessory Basics

Accessories for your scale is an aspect that can change the dynamic of your weighing operation for the better. Typically when shopping for an industrial scale, one is already greeted with a plethora of base, deck, and load cell (analog or electronic load cells) options. When considering accessories for your scale, the main thing to remember is looking at your operation and knowing what you will actually need and if you will put the new equipment to good use. These aforementioned factors contribute to other things like calibration, and how well the scale indicator will connect. When you’re in the market to purchase an industrial scale for your operation, there are a number of different accessories that can really help your business to increase efficiency, speed and overall safety. This article will cover the accessories that you will most likely come across when considering your options.

WEIGHT INDICATORS

The first accessory that you will want to look at is a weight indicator. Weight indicators are an essential accessory for viewing the weight value when taking measurements. In harsh environments, your indicator and junction box are usually sealed to keep moisture from compromising it. Some are stainless steel for a washdown environment. This also factors in for your scale calibration. When taking weight measurements, an indicator will display your weight as well as offer other features. Depending on your operation, setup will determine what type of indicator you will want to consider. For example, if you have your scale located in a heavy washdown area, then you will want to consider an indicator with a high IP rating (IP65) which can withstand extreme environmental changes. Weight indicators have a lot of options as well. Not just for displaying the weight, but also can be optioned with features such as process control and the ability to communicate wirelessly with other additions. A good weight indicator will help save time and expedite weight measurements, while carefully organizing critical weighing information. A good scale and indicator combination will change the way your operation works for the better. Be sure to check out our indicators over at our products page. 

REMOTE DISPLAYS

Remote displays or scoreboard make viewing information much easier from a distance. You may have a floor scale placed in a meat packing plant but are unable to place the display next to the scale. That is where a remote display comes in. You now have versatility in that you can place the display in a more convenient area. Having a remote display will save time and effort for your operation when space limitations force you to relocate your display.  A remote display makes the weighing process a lot quicker and adds an extra element of safety for those operating the scale by reducing the back and forth of the weighing process. 

TICKET PRINTERS

Ticket printers are a great tool for scales due to offering the option to have a printed record of your weight measurement. Ticket printers allow users to print out readings at the scale itself. Some Active Scale ticket printers easily load paper, prevent paper jams, and feature an easily-accessible cabinet allowing the truck driver to simply reach down from their truck to retrieve their ticket. Coupling a good scale, indicator, and ticket printer will help your operation run a lot smoother and efficiently. 

GUIDE RAILS

When operating a vehicle scale, having guide rails is a great preventative measure to take to ensure the vehicle is safely on the scale platform. Guide rails are meant to direct vehicle traffic and prevent drive-offs on elevated platforms. These usually are welded to a steel deck. They are usually reserved for heavy duty weighing applications like truck scales. Typically guide rails will be of a rugged make and are bolted on so they will break away after being run into or struck to prevent hardware deformation. Guide rails are essential to vehicle scale safety. Knowing which style of guide rail is best for you will depend on how your vehicle scale is set up. 

UNATTENDED VEHICLE SCALE WEIGHING

With the advancement of technology, there is a push for things to be more autonomous. With scale operations, having a well set up operation designed to be unmanned will remove a lot of extra work and add some efficiency. With some instrumentation designed with a weather-proof enclosure, internal heater, thermal printer, and a rain hood, an unmanned weighing terminal performs well in all weather conditions. Terminals are able to be optioned with additional peripherals like, RFID readers, credit card collector, and money collectors can be added for convenience.

FINAL WORDS

Scale accessories can have a positive effect on the operations. The accessories listed above can help boost your operation’s efficiency as well as increasing the safety and all around flexibility of your operation. Be sure to check out our accessories section on our products page to place an order or to see what is offered. 

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale systems related, including products from the top scale manufacturers. Be sure to check out our truck scale articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership. Also, take a look at our“Common Problems With Bench Scales'', to help prolong the lifespan on your scale.

Do I Need A Truck Scale Scoreboard?

So you just purchased and had your scale service company install your brand new truck scale.  Then you are asked whether you would like to have a remote display for your truck scale?   Depending on your experience with truck scales your first question might be “What is a remote display”?  Second question you might ask is do I have to have one?

In this blog post we will help answer both of these questions and more.

What are remote displays?

Remote displays or scoreboards are large digital displays that show the weight data from your scale indicator.  They are normally mounted to a pole or other stand so that a truck driver can see his/her weight when on the scale.  This is important because most times the truck driver can not see the scale indicator since it is located inside an office or scale house. 

What’s needed to make my remote display operate?

In order for your remote display to work you will need a few components.  First you will need a source of communication between your scale indicator and the remote display.  Most often this is via RS-232 protocol via a wire communication cable.  Less prevalent is wireless options that require a transmitter and a receiver.  The wireless option eliminates the need to run hard wire cabling which can be beneficial if you have large distances / parking lots / other obstructions between the indicator and remote display.  Second you will need an electric power source to run the remote display.  Normally a standard 110VAC outlet/ receptacle is all that is required.  Finally, you will need something to mount the remote display onto.  Metal poles are often used and are a great option.  More economical are wood poles.  Also an option is mounting the remote display to the scale house itself.  The main considerations for mounting are that the remote display is secure and will not move in the wind and that the location allows for the truck driver to have a clear unobstructed view.

Do I have to have a remote display?

The answer is it depends.  First it depends if you are using your scale in a legal for trade operation.  If you are using the truck scale in a LFT operation then most likely you will need a remote display.  On the flip side if you are not using your scale in a legal for trade operation you are not required to have a remote display.  Second it depends on the state in which the scale is located.  So, if you are using your scale in a LFT operation then you must adhere to your state's weights & measures regulations.  As an example, in the state of North Carolina remote displays are required for all truck scales.  In the state of Virginia, they are also required and they must display “00” when the scale is empty; displaying only one zero “0” is grounds for the scale being rejected.  As a general rule and for improved operations overall we always suggest truck scales have a remote display.

What options are there for remote displays?

Remote displays come in a range of sizes, shapes, and finishes.  The most common is the 4-inch remote display.  This means the digits when displayed will be approximately 4 inches tall.  Other common sizes are 2-inch and 6-inch.  In addition to the size, remote displays can also have integrated red/green lights.  They are useful when needing to signal truck drivers when to pull onto and off of the truck scale.  More advanced remote displays are also capable of displaying text / words not just numbers.  This allows for messages to be flashed to truck drivers such as instructions on how / when to pull onto the scale.  To learn more about the remote displays American Scale offer checkout our scale accessories page.

Closing Words

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our legal for trade truck scale system articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. We also have articles on scale accessories, common problems to prolong your scales lifespan, weighing applications as well as what scale indicator works best with your junction box. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership.