Abstract: Apparatus and method for inspecting and grading a grain sample involves the use of a first tray having an upwardly-facing grooved surface on which kernels of grain can be arranged in rows for a first inspection. A second tray is placed on top of the first ray and has a resiliently compressible deformable surface which faces downwardly and bears against kernels in the grooved surface of the first tray so as to entrap and immobilize any kernels of grain on the first tray. Both trays are then overturned so that resilient surface of the second tray faces upwardly and grooved surface of the said tray faces downwardly. When said first tray is removed from association with the second tray, the kernels, now overturned, are arranged on the resilient surface of the second tray and are ready for further inspection.

Abstract: A testing and calibration device is provided for a known type of electrical instrument for measuring moisture in a grain sample. The instrument comprises a sample-receiving test cell in the form of a cylindrical container having a concentric electrode therewithin and operates on the principle that the intensity of an electrostatic field in the test cell changes in proportion to the amount of moisture in the grain sample. The testing and calibration device, which serves as synthetic sample or substitute for a controlled grain sample of known size, dielectric constant and moisture content, comprises concentrically arranged inner and outer cylindrical dielectric members defining a sealed cylindrical space therebetween which contains a metal component of appropriate size and shape and sufficient liquid added during manufacture to duplicate the electrical characteristics of the controlled grain sample. The liquid may take the form of water or a mixture of water and an antifreeze agent.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for calibrating a known type of electrical instrument which is used for measuring the amount of moisture in a sample of grain or other particulate material. The instrument operates on the principle that the intensity of an electrostatic field will change in proportion to the moisture content of a material sample of predetermined size placed in the field, i.e., in proportion to the dielectric constant of the sample. The instrument comprises a test cell for receiving the sample and comprises a container having a concentrically disposed electrode therewithin which are part of a resonant electrical circuit; means for establishing a balanced electrostatic field of known intensity in the space between the container wall and electrode; means for measuring the change in field intensity (i.e.