= Load receptor
A \b[load receptor] is the part of a <weighing scale> intended to receive the load, such as the platform supporting a parcel. The instrument can transmit that load's <force> to a separate measuring element, for example a <load cell>.<Non-automatic weighing instruments, Part 1>[OIML R76-1:2006(E), T.2.1.1–T.2.1.3, printed p7]{ref}
A simple static model explains why the physical support path matters. Suppose a $2\,\mathrm{kg}$ object rests entirely on a horizontal <load receptor>, with local <gravitational acceleration> $g=9.8\,\mathrm{m\,s^{-2}}$. Neglecting air buoyancy, its <gravitational weight> is $19.6\,\mathrm N$. The instrument can convert the measured supporting <force> into a <mass> indication through its <calibration>.
Now arrange a separate overhead support to carry $4.9\,\mathrm N$ of the same object's <gravitational weight>, while the rest still reaches the <load receptor>. The scale then supports $14.7\,\mathrm N$ and, under the same ideal <calibration>, indicates $1.5\,\mathrm{kg}$. The object's <mass> remains $2\,\mathrm{kg}$: the indication changed because the support path changed. This is an illustrative <static equilibrium> experiment, rather than a claim about any instrument's specified error.
A removable container placed on the platform contributes <tare mass>; it is distinct from the instrument's own <load receptor>. To measure the <net mass> of the contents, the <tare device> changes the indicated reference while the receptor continues to carry both container and contents. Contact with an external support can therefore defeat an otherwise correct subtraction.
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