Abstract: Disclosed is a method for estimating the range to an object, the method comprising: transmitting a first signal towards the object; receiving a reflected echo signal reflected from the object; and determining a measured point (MP) in an N-dimensional phase space. The range to the object is estimated by selecting a candidate range estimate from a plurality of candidate range estimates, each candidate range estimate in the unambiguous range R having an unique associated point in the N-dimensional phase space positioned on range lines, and wherein a candidate range estimate is selected dependent on the distance from its unique associated point in the N-dimensional phase space to the measured point (MP), so that a single range estimate is generated using information from at least two measured phase differences without directly averaging ambiguous range estimates.

Abstract: Apparatus for inspecting non-round annular containers includes elongated capacitive sensors, cooperating oscillators, which convert the sensor signal to a voltage corresponding thereto, and an electronic processor which receives the voltage and determines thickness. A displaceable electromechanical member is operatively associated with the sensor and emits an electrical signal corresponding to the degree of displacement of the sensor by a container being inspected. The electronic processor corrects the thickness determination by an adjustment of container diameter at the specific location where thickness is being monitored in order to compensate for container diameter variations due to the non-round characteristic of the container. In a preferred embodiment, linkage members secured to the rear of the sensor at a plurality of locations cooperate with a single displaceable element which converts the mechanical displacement of the sensor into a corresponding electrical signal.

Abstract: A detection and weighing device for selectively distinguishing two groups of animals, such as for instance cocks and hens, one of the groups to be distinguished being provided with a detection element, for instance a label, consisting of or provided with amorphous magnetic material. This material is recognized with the aid of an alternating magnetic field and a receiving coil suitable for that purpose, and the presence or absence of the detection element, together with the weight determined by the weighing device on which the detection system is arranged, indicates whether an animal from one group or the other group is involved, so that, for instance, the average weight of the two groups can be determined. Instead of being used in combination with a weighing device, this detection device can also be used while being coupled to other presence-detection devices.

Abstract: A method and device for detection and identification of liquid, solid, and gaseous foreign substances of beverages and/or beverage residues in re-usable bottles, especially in plastic bottles and other containers. Electromagnetic radiation traverses the walls of the bottles and containers at least once, and by areas of residual liquid, areas with liquid films, solid films on the inside wall and areas with contamination inside the wall are detected by the electromagnetic radiation.

Abstract: A system to measure geometric and electromagnetic characteristics of objects. Wave energy of a single frequency (or very narrow band of frequencies) is directed upon an object which reflects (or otherwise interacts with) the wave energy. The reflected wave energy is sensed by many spatially spaced sensors to provide electric signals whose amplitude and phase components are combined to give a quantity from which geometric and/or electromagnetic characteristics of the object can be ascertained.

Abstract: This invention relates to a turnable electrode which is positionable in contact or proximity with a specified portion of an article which is being transported, the electrode having in its periphery at least one access portion shaped in conformity with the contour of the specified portion of the article, the electrode being turnable as the article is transported forward to bring the access portion into contact or proximity with the specified portion of the article.