Abstract: A non-invasive sensor suitable for measuring the depth of fat in animal tissue is described, the sensor generating and transmitting focussed discrete narrow band microwave signals into the tissue, receiving reflected microwave signals from the tissue and providing magnitude and phase information of the reflected microwave signals for a processor to compute a value of the fat depth within the tissue.

Abstract: A generator (6) directs microwave signals to a waveguide (1) having a linear array of slots (2), and the signals are received by measuring device (5). The local permittivity or moisture content of material adjacent the waveguide (1), such as a stack of timber, may be determined at each slot (2) via regression analysis. The total permittivity or moisture may be determined by averaging measurements obtained for both transmission directions of the waveguide (1). The apparatus may be used for controlling drying parameters, such as drying time, for the material.

Abstract: A generator (6) directs microwave signals to a waveguide (1) having a linear array of slots (2), and the signals are received by measuring means (5). The local permittivity or moisture content of material adjacent the waveguide (1), such as a stack of timber, may be determined at each slot (2) via regression analysis. The total permittivity or moisture may be determined by averaging measurements obtained for both transmission directions of the waveguide (1). The apparatus may be used for controlling drying parameters, such as drying time, for the material.

Abstract: Apparatus (1) for determining material characteristics of an object (2) is provided, the apparatus including at least one microwave sensing system including generating means 3 and transmitting means (4) for generating and transmitting one or more microwave signals on to one or more focal points located substantially on the surface of an object to be measured. The energy or power of microwave signals reflected from the object (2) is detected and at least one measurement value is computed dependent on the reflected microwave signals, wherein the measurement value is indicative of one or more material characteristics of the object. Also provided is a method of determining material characteristics of an object including focussing microwave energy onto the surface of the object and detecting the reflected signals. The apparatus and method may be used to provide a measure of the length of the object and the location of characteristics of the object along its length.

Abstract: A non-invasive sensor suitable for measuring the depth of fat in animal tissue is described, the sensor generating and transmitting focussed discrete narrow band microwave signals into the tissue, receiving reflected microwave signals from the tissue and providing magnitude and phase information of the reflected microwave signals for a processing means to compute a value of the fat depth within the tissue.