Abstract: Described is a device for detecting a surface of bulk materials, the device including: a transmitter unit having a radiation direction for transmitting a measuring signal, a receiver unit for receiving a measuring signal reflected on the surface of the bulk material, a control and evaluation unit for controlling the alignment of the radiation direction and for evaluating the received measuring signal, and an alignment arrangement for aligning the transmitter unit. The alignment arrangement includes at least one connecting element for connection to the transmitter unit, at least one bearing element, and at least one positioning member. The connecting element is pivotably connected to the bearing element via the positioning member. The alignment of the transmitter unit can be changed by the positioning member. The positioning member includes a shape memory element that actively changes its shape under variations of an influencing parameter.

Abstract: An antenna for a level meter and a method for operating such an antenna. The antenna has an antenna housing, at least one supply element and at least one lens, the lens having at least first and second lens surfaces. The supply element guides coupled electromagnetic radiation and emits electromagnetic radiation in the direction of the first lens surface. The electromagnetic radiation received via the first lens surface can be relayed and emitted via the second lens surface. The lens is formed at least in part of a porous material, wherein the porous material connects the first lens surface and the second lens surface to one another, and a flushing device is provided for impinging the lens with a medium that passes through the porous material and through the second lens surface via the first lens surface.

Abstract: Described is a device for detecting a surface of bulk materials, the device including: a transmitter unit having a radiation direction for transmitting a measuring signal, a receiver unit for receiving a measuring signal reflected on the surface of the bulk material, a control and evaluation unit for controlling the alignment of the radiation direction and for evaluating the received measuring signal, and an alignment arrangement for aligning the transmitter unit. The alignment arrangement includes at least one connecting element for connection to the transmitter unit, at least one bearing element, and at least one positioning member. The connecting element is pivotably connected to the bearing element via the positioning member. The alignment of the transmitter unit can be changed by the positioning member. The positioning member includes a shape memory element that actively changes its shape under variations of an influencing parameter.

Abstract: An antenna for a level meter and a method for operating such an antenna. The antenna has an antenna housing, at least one supply element and at least one lens, the lens having at least first and second lens surfaces. The supply element guides coupled electromagnetic radiation and emits electromagnetic radiation in the direction of the first lens surface. The electromagnetic radiation received via the first lens surface can be relayed and emitted via the second lens surface. The lens is formed at least in part of a porous material, wherein the porous material connects the first lens surface and the second lens surface to one another, and a flushing device is provided for impinging the lens with a medium that passes through the porous material and through the second lens surface via the first lens surface.