Mechanical and analog devices used for determining weight rely on physical phenomena like the balance of a beam against calibrated weights or the deformation of a spring under load. Common examples include balance scales, spring scales, and steelyards. These instruments offer a tangible, visual representation of the weighing process.
Their simplicity often translates to robustness and reliability, especially in environments where electricity is unavailable or unreliable. Historically, these tools played a crucial role in commerce, science, and everyday life, forming the foundation for modern metrology. Their continued relevance lies in their affordability, ease of use, and inherent resistance to certain types of malfunction common in electronic devices.
