Abstract: A bale weight control system is provided for use on a conventional baling machine having a compression zone defined by opposed retaining walls capable of being urged together by a hydraulic ram. The weight control system utilizes a moisture sensing system which provides a continuous electrical output signal to a microprocessor that determines proper wall pressure. The microprocessor produces an electrical output signal that controls the hydraulic pressure supplied to the ram. Water may be controllably applied to hay which is too dry.

Abstract: A sensing device and interactive components are provided for the continuous automatic monitoring of the moisture content of hay during its baling with a conventional baling machine. The device is comprised of a cylindrical holding tube having an open forward extremity which is welded to the retaining wall of the compression zone of the baler. An electrode and surrounding electrical insulative material are disposed within the holding tube. The forward extremities of the electrode and insulative material extend through an aperture in the retaining wall to coplanar disposition with the interiorly directed surface of the retaining wall. As the hay slides perpendicularly past the electrode, electrical resistivity is measured and caused to indicate moisture content on a meter located in the driver's compartment of the baler machine.

Abstract: A canteen-like apparatus which confines potable water is adapted to heat the water by solar energy. The apparatus has a water-confining vessel substantially surrounded by a thermally insulating jacket. The vessel is comprised of an upper panel of spherical curvature convexly directed away from the interior of the vessel, and an opposed lower panel. A flat fresnel lens having a circular perimeter of larger diameter than the diameter of the transparent panel is attached at its perimeter to the insulating jacket and thereby disposed above the transparent panel to form an air chamber. Rays of sunlight pass through the fresnel lens and converge toward and impinge perpendicularly upon the upper panel, thereby producing efficient heating of the water.