Hello,
I’m working on a project where I’m trying to measure the weight on a ladder step. I’ve created a ‘load cell’ by attaching four strain gauges onto the bottom sides of the step with the idea being that when weight is placed on the step, it will deform and the strain gauges will stretch. I’m using the example calibration code shown here: https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/lo … okup-guide and I’ve attached the 4 strain gauges to a combinator board similar to how the example of 4 single load cells is shown.
The problem is when I run the calibration code, it only shows 0lbs even when I place a known weight on it.
I’ve checked the connections and replaced the boards. On another project I was using a different setup but the strain gauges attached to the ladder were able to flex enough to give a reading.
Any help would be appreicated.
connections.pdf (125 KB)
/*
Example using the SparkFun HX711 breakout board with a scale
By: Nathan Seidle
SparkFun Electronics
Date: November 19th, 2014
License: This code is public domain but you buy me a beer if you use this and we meet someday (Beerware license).
This is the calibration sketch. Use it to determine the calibration_factor that the main example uses. It also
outputs the zero_factor useful for projects that have a permanent mass on the scale in between power cycles.
Setup your scale and start the sketch WITHOUT a weight on the scale
Once readings are displayed place the weight on the scale
Press +/- or a/z to adjust the calibration_factor until the output readings match the known weight
Use this calibration_factor on the example sketch
This example assumes pounds (lbs). If you prefer kilograms, change the Serial.print(" lbs"); line to kg. The
calibration factor will be significantly different but it will be linearly related to lbs (1 lbs = 0.453592 kg).
Your calibration factor may be very positive or very negative. It all depends on the setup of your scale system
and the direction the sensors deflect from zero state
This example code uses bogde's excellent library: https://github.com/bogde/HX711
bogde's library is released under a GNU GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Arduino pin 2 -> HX711 CLK
3 -> DOUT
5V -> VCC
GND -> GND
Most any pin on the Arduino Uno will be compatible with DOUT/CLK.
The HX711 board can be powered from 2.7V to 5V so the Arduino 5V power should be fine.
*/
#include "HX711.h" //This library can be obtained here http://librarymanager/All#Avia_HX711
#define LOADCELL_DOUT_PIN 3
#define LOADCELL_SCK_PIN 2
HX711 scale;
float calibration_factor = -400; //-7050 worked for my 440lb max scale setup
void setup() {
Serial.begin(9600);
Serial.println("HX711 calibration sketch");
Serial.println("Remove all weight from scale");
Serial.println("After readings begin, place known weight on scale");
Serial.println("Press + or a to increase calibration factor");
Serial.println("Press - or z to decrease calibration factor");
scale.begin(LOADCELL_DOUT_PIN, LOADCELL_SCK_PIN);
scale.set_scale();
scale.tare(); //Reset the scale to 0
long zero_factor = scale.read_average(); //Get a baseline reading
Serial.print("Zero factor: "); //This can be used to remove the need to tare the scale. Useful in permanent scale projects.
Serial.println(zero_factor);
}
void loop() {
scale.set_scale(calibration_factor); //Adjust to this calibration factor
Serial.print("Reading: ");
Serial.print(scale.get_units(), 1);
Serial.print(" lbs"); //Change this to kg and re-adjust the calibration factor if you follow SI units like a sane person
Serial.print(" calibration_factor: ");
Serial.print(calibration_factor);
Serial.println();
if(Serial.available())
{
char temp = Serial.read();
if(temp == '+' || temp == 'a')
calibration_factor += 10;
else if(temp == '-' || temp == 'z')
calibration_factor -= 10;
}
}