Method and apparatus for weighing an elongate object

Abstract

Method and apparatus for weighing an elongate object extending between a root end and a tip end thereof, said method including: providing a respective tip load measurement gauge and root load measurement gauge; and providing a suspending arrangement configured for suspending said elongate object from said tip load measurement gauge and from said root load measurement gauge; and suspending said object in a horizontal orientation; and recording a tip load and a root load from respective said load measurement gauges, said method being additionally characterised by: providing a weighing area; and fixing an inclinometer to said suspended blade and load gauge arrangement; and suspending said elongate object from said tip load gauge and from said root load gauge; and adjusting the horizontality of said elongate object in response to signals from said inclinometer prior to said step of recording said tip load and said root load. Alternatively, an inclinometer may be replaced by placing a first distance sensor at a first location on a ground surface; and placing a second distance sensor at a second location on said ground surface; and suspending said elongate object from said tip load gauge and from said root load gauge such that a said root end thereof is suspended proximate said first distance sensor and a said tip end thereof is suspended proximate said second distance sensor; and measuring a first distance between said first distance sensor and a said root portion of said elongate object and; and measuring a second distance between said second distance sensor and a said tip portion of said elongate object; and then adjusting the horizontality of said elongate object in response to said first and second distance readings prior to said step of recording said tip load and said root load.