A load receiver for a balance with arms is designed to support weights of various shapes and sizes by cradling the weights in a depression sloped at a variable slope angle towards the middle of the load receiver. Elastic devices mounted within the working chamber and compliance chamber allow the apparent compliance of the friction braking system attached to the combination device to remain at a relatively constant value notwithstanding the presence of varying amounts of powertrain braking. The heat transfer device may transition the material through a phase change.