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Microwaves for Measuring Moisture
Patent Number: 6147503
Docket Number: 3897
Serial Number: 9074394
Date Patented: 11/14/2000
Technology Description:
The invention is a way to simultaneously and independently measure moisture content and bulk density of grain using radio-frequency techniques. The technology addresses highly-automated industrial needs for on-line, real-time monitoring and control. The invention can be used to prevent grain over drying or under drying, which can cause fungal disease, insect damage, and affect product quality. The invention is based on the use of the dielectric properties of the materials for density and water content determination.
The invention consists of sensing elements including a transmitting and receiving antenna. A cavity where grain moisture and density are measured is placed between the two antennae. Radio signals pass through the sample and are transmitted through coaxial cables to a computer. The computer uses mathematical calculations based on the frequencies that are transmitted to determine moisture and density.
The technology is applicable to the food and feed industry. Companies engaged in the manufacture of electronics and computer products would also benefit from the technology.
Reference:
Please refer to USPN 6,147,503 (Docket #0038.97), "Method for Determining Moisture Content and Density of Particulate Microwave Permittivity Measurements," which issued on November 14, 2000. Foreign rights are not available.
Inventors:
Samir Trabelsi
Quality Assessment Research Unit
Athens, GA 30604-5677
(706) 546-3157 / Fax: (706) 546-3607
strabelsi@qaru.ars.usda.gov |
Stuart O. Nelson
(Same as first inventor)
(706) 546-3101 / Fax: (706) 546-3607
sonelson@qaru.ars.usda.gov |
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Andrzej W. Kraszewski (retired) |
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