Fast nonstationary filtering for adaptive weighing system

In this work, a practical evaluation of the filtering method for weighing system is provided. The analyzed system form a part of the horticultural fruits sorting machine, which requires a fast and reliable weight measurements. Dynamic weighing of moving objects requires fast and adaptive signal processing techniques in order to guaranty a timely response. Thus, applied signal filtration technique must ensure that the constant component remains free of noise, transient responses of load cell as well as mechanical vibrations. In this paper fast nonstationary filtering method is applied, providing optimal tradeoff between response time and settling time of steady state value. The implementation method uses the distributed approach, where an intelligent sensor captures raw signal and applies adaptive filter. Subsequently, obtained value is transmitted to central unit, that applies weight compensation function to improve the measurement accuracy. All presented results use the real signal acquired in industrial conditions from the tests of sorting machine prototype. The analyzed approach obtains promising results for all sorting modes. Moreover, classical filtering approach is used for comparison purposes and performance evaluation.