Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring the condition of a tool or a workpiece includes an electromagnetic energy source for directing electromagnetic energy toward the tool and also receives electromagnetic energy reflected off the tool. A detector is arranged to receive the reflected electromagnetic energy from the electromagnetic energy source and converts the reflected energy into electronic signals. The electronic signals are transmitted from the detector to a control signal generator and then to a signal analyzing device. The signal analyzing device compares the electronic signals received from the control signal generator to reference signals to determine the condition of the tool or workpiece. Then, the control signal generator generates a control signal based on the result of the comparison performed by the signal analyzing device and transmits the control signal to a tool controlling device controlling the operation of the tool.

Abstract: A pressure foot for a microwave drill detection system has a cavity in the base, a cover closing the opening into the cavity, with the cover and the base being designed to inhibit microwave radiation leakage, whereby a microwave beam directed toward a drill bit in the cavity is substantially confined within the cavity.

Abstract: A microwave detection system is constructed which is useful for detecting the presence or absence of a target within a microwave transmission line.