Abstract: A distance measuring apparatus for detecting the position of a reflection body in a line structure is provided that includes a sensor device, which has at least one antenna for feeding a transmission signal as an electromagnetic wave into the line structure and for receiving the electromagnetic wave reflected on the reflection body. The sensor device also includes evaluation electronics which are configured to determine the position of the reflection body from the phase difference between the transmitted and the received wave.

Abstract: A device for monitoring a viscoelastic material by subjecting the sample to vibration and analyzing the response of the sample to such vibration. According to the invention, the sample (13) is placed in a chamber (20) situated between a vibration source (22) and a vibration sensor (25), these elements being pressed towards each other by means (35, 39) for applying initial mechanical loading.

Abstract: Multi-segment RF probes for automatic slide screw impedance tuners include a multitude of slugs, which are individually adjustable towards the center conductor of the slabline and spaced against each-other in order to create the required capacitance and transmission line space values needed for synthesizing resonant networks to match arbitrary reflection factor patterns over a given frequency range. The multi-segment probes are optimized using network synthesis software within the limits of the capacitance and inductance values allowed by the hardware. The probes allow constant phase testing for 100 MHz bandwidths or more.

Abstract: An inspection system for a metal-reinforced concrete structure is described. The system includes a radio frequency (RF) system configured to be movable with respect to a surface of the concrete structure while transmitting radio signals into the interior of the structure, and receiving reflected radio signals. The system also includes a processor configured to process the reflected radio signals, so as to obtain a focused image of the reinforcement in at least one selected region within the concrete structure. The image corresponds to the physical condition of the reinforcement. A method for determining the condition of a reinforced concrete structure is also described, utilizing the inspection system.

Abstract: A microwave apparatus comprises a microwave source for providing a microwave signal, connectable to a load; control means configured in operation to vary over a frequency range a frequency of the microwave signal provided by the source; a microwave detector for performing microwave measurements, arranged to receive reflections from and/or transmissions to the load in operation and to perform a plurality of measurements, each measurement corresponding to a respective one of a plurality of different frequencies of the frequency range; and means for determining from the plurality of measurements a measure of reflection and/or a measure of transmission.

Abstract: A sensor comprising: a dielectric waveguide for guiding a microwave signal; and a dielectric reflector at an end of the dielectric waveguide to cause formation of a sensing field beyond an outer surface of the dielectric reflector.

Abstract: A fill-level measuring device for ascertaining and monitoring fill level of a medium located in the process space of a container by means of a microwave travel time measuring method. The device comprises a measurement transmitter and an antenna unit, which is constructed at least of a hollow conductor and a radiating element A microwave transmissive, process isolating element is inserted for process isolation into the hollow conductor between the measurement transmitter and the horn shaped radiating element contacting the process space. The process isolating element is embodied as a hollow body having at least one tubular hollow body region matched to the shape of the hollow conductor, and a pointed hollow body region neighboring the hollow body region in the direction of the radiating element and having a wall thickness selected based on reflection, or lack thereof, of the microwave signals.

Abstract: Techniques for obtaining a propagation delay through first and second transmission lines having substantially equal propagation delays may include: providing a first signal to the first transmission line; providing a second signal to the second transmission line; detecting an incident edge of the first signal on the first transmission line; detecting a reflected edge of the second signal on the second transmission line; and determining the propagation delay based on times of detection of the incident edge and detection of the reflected edge.

Abstract: An open-ended waveguide probe including a finite flange extending outwardly and functioning as an infinite flange. A signal source provides a microwave signal to the waveguide, which in turn transmits microwave electromagnetic energy incident upon an object to be tested. The finite flange at the waveguide's aperture is shaped to reduce scattering of the electromagnetic field reflected from the object and received by the aperture. The probe is adapted for coupling to a receiver for sampling the reflected electromagnetic field received by the aperture and the receiver is adapted for coupling to a processor for determining at least one material characteristic of the object based on sampled electromagnetic field reflected from the object.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is described for measuring non-invasively level of contents inside an array of containers without setting up any electrodes or attaching sensors around the containers, or inserting of a probe inside. Electromagnetic waves are launched from the bottom of the containers using launchers embedded in a tray the containers rest on. These waves travel through the bulk of the contents inside the container using a mode of propagation similar to dielectric waveguides or optical fibers and set up standing waves due to reflection at the content-air interface. The level inside the container is a function of the complex reflection coefficient (magnitude and phase) at the launcher input and can be thus determined by measuring the complex reflection coefficient.

Abstract: A guided wave radar transmitter for interface measurement comprises a probe defining a transmission line for sensing level of two immiscible liquids to define an interface therebetween. A pulse circuit generates pulses on the transmission line and receives a reflected signal from the transmission line. The reflected signal selectively includes a level pulse representing material level and an interface pulse representing interface level. A controller operates in an interface mode to determine the material level and the interface level responsive to receiving the level pulse and the interface pulse. The controller operates in a medium identification mode responsive to not receiving the interface pulse, comprising calculating an estimated amplitude of the level pulse for the two immiscible liquids and comparing actual amplitude of the level pulse to the estimated amplitude of the level pulse to identify the medium in the vessel.

Abstract: A method of inspection of a tire was developed using microwave imaging comprising the steps of selecting a plurality of regions from within a tire to be imaged; determining the dielectric properties of the tire components in each of the selected regions in a plurality of frequency bands; selecting a specific location on a tire to be imaged; providing a scanning platform for microwave imaging of the tire; imaging the selected location on a tire using microwave imaging at a plurality of microwave scanning frequencies and at a selected microwave polarization to obtain images of the internal state of the sample; and filtering the images to remove the effects of curvature of the selected location of the tire.

Abstract: A portable microwave material gauge for determining the quality of a pavement material is provided. The gauge includes an electromagnetic field generator configured to generate an electric field mode that penetrates into the material wherein the material includes a heterogeneous material including at least one of a pavement material and a soil material, a calibration data set, a sensor of size and shape to support the electric field mode and to determine the response of the pavement material to the electric field wherein determining the response includes determining a change in the permittivity as a function of a change in the quality of the material; and an analyzer configured to correlate the sensor permittivity response to the calibration data set wherein correlating the response includes using stored relationships between the material quality and the sensor response using calibration samples having changes in permittivity as a function of quality.

Abstract: A high-frequency data and/or power transmission system suitable for downhole use including signal/power couplers, transmission line segments and signal repeaters. Signals and power are/is transmitted between couplers and/or between couplers and repeaters by means of electromagnetic resonance coupling. In at least a portion of the system, the transmission line segments form parallel data paths and the repeaters provide crossover capability between the data/power paths, thereby significantly improving reliability. The invention also includes methods of transmitting data and/or distributing high-frequency power through a downhole transmission system including multiple data/power paths and multiple crossovers wherein a fault location in one data/power path is bypassed by routing data and/or power to a parallel data/power path by means of electromagnetic resonance coupling.

Abstract: A sensing device comprises a microwave sensor (1) configured to emit microwave radiation and to receive microwave radiation reflected by a moving body in the field of detection of the microwave sensor and a wireless data transmitter (4) configured to transmit data to a remote receiver. A main power supply provides electrical power at a first voltage to the sensing device. A first regulator 6 provided between the main power supply and the microwave sensor (1) provides a sensor power supply to the microwave sensor (1) at a voltage below the voltage of the main power supply. The wireless data transmitter (4) is powered from the main power supply via a transmitter power supply connection arranged in parallel with the first regulator (6). The microwave sensor (1) is provided on a first circuit board and the wireless data transmitter (4) is provided on a second circuit board, with the second circuit board overlying the first circuit board and spaced therefrom.

Abstract: The invention is directed to products used to detect and methods for detecting conductive materials in the presence of non-conductive materials, including non-conductive materials having dielectric properties. Specifically, the product is a conductive thin film detector, which is, preferably, a hand-held device designed to detect the presence of metal in, on, or under an object. This detection occurs even in the presence of non-conductive materials and other nearby conductive materials on objects that are not being tested. The device preferably comprises: a power source, such as a battery; a method for activation, such as a press button; the necessary components to send and receive a radio frequency, e.g., a radio frequency generator, an antenna, and a radio frequency detector; and an indicator, such as a light or a meter, to, for example, indicate the strength of the radio frequency signal received.

Abstract: Device for processing and measuring properties of a moving rod of material of the tobacco processing industry includes a microwave resonator structured and arranged so that the rod of material is conveyable through the microwave resonator. Includes microwave generator with output frequency f0, and frequency stabilized oscillator to generate intermediate frequency fIM that is less than f0. Single sideband modulator supplies microwave resonator with a sideband signal having a sideband frequency shifted with respect to output frequency f0 by intermediate frequency fIM, and at least one analysis arrangement includes single sideband demodulator, low-pass filter, and analog to digital converter arranged in series. Single sideband demodulator receives a measurement signal of the sideband frequency transmitted or reflected from the microwave resonator, and receives output frequency f0.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method to determine whether a pipeline has been cut, the method including (a) transmitting an electromagnetic signal through the pipeline; (b) monitoring any reflected signal(s); and (c) interpreting the reflected signal to determine whether the pipeline has been cut.

Abstract: An open sensor is provided for testing a split sample of a composite medium. The open sensor generally includes a longitudinal section of a tube and a plurality of serpentine conductors which are successively layered on top of each other. The interior surface of the tube section forms a trough into which the split sample of the composite medium can be disposed. The number of serpentine conductors is two or greater.

Abstract: A fill level measuring device. On a plurality of different signal paths, microwave signals can be transmitted into a container, and their associated echo signals recorded. The device includes: measuring device electronics having a microwave generator for the successive production of microwave signals; and, connected thereto, a frequency-selective, passive antenna arrangement, which has a number of frequency-selective elements—especially bandpass filters—in each case transmissive for one of the different wanted frequencies. Via the antennas and the frequency-selective elements, for each of the different microwave signals and its echo signal, a uniquely associated signal path is specified, via which a microwave signal is transmitted into the container and its echo signal, reflected back to the antenna arrangement, is received and fed to the measuring device electronics.

Abstract: An open ended coaxial probe is disclosed that can be used to measure the dielectric properties of solids. According to some embodiments, the probe is specially designed to make good contact with solids having flat or non-flat surfaces. This design relies on forcing a good contact between the solid surface with both the center conductor and outer conductor of the coaxial probe. A method is also described in which the coaxial probe is used to monitor the dielectric permittivity of cylindrical samples such as rock cores drilled from a well. Also described are methods of using the coaxial probe to provide a continuous log of the dielectric permittivity of a rock core.

Abstract: Various examples of methods and systems are provided for traveling wave spot probes. In one embodiment, among others, a traveling wave spot probe includes one or more antennas positioned proximate to a coated surface. The one or more antennas can be configured to excite a surface traveling wave moving over an area under test by launching radio frequency (RF) energy at approximately a grazing angle to the coated surface under test. The one or more antennas can be positioned on a base placed proximate to the coated surface. The base can define the area of the coated surface under test. In another embodiment, a method for non-destructive testing of a coated surface includes positioning one or more antennas proximate to a coated surface and exciting a surface traveling wave over an area under test by transmitting RF energy via at least a portion of the one or more antennas.

Abstract: A measuring whispering-gallery-mode resonator, comprising: a dielectric resonating body with a rotation axis; a superconducting sample under test, which is mounted to the resonating body; a coupling unit for coupling a measuring waveguide with the resonating body, wherein one side of the resonating body connected with the coupling unit is provided with a first endplate, wherein m coupling holes penetrate through the first endplate, and centers of the m coupling holes are arranged to be evenly spaced along a circle whose center is on the rotation axis; the coupling unit has a feeder line which is a coaxial waveguide, wherein an axis of the coaxial waveguide coincides with the rotation axis, and one end surface of the coaxial waveguide, which is perpendicular to the rotation axis, abuts to the first endplate; and the axial index of operated whispering gallery mode in the resonator is an integer multiple of the number m of the coupling holes.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling an impedance tuner system. In one embodiment, a web-enabled electronic controller controls an impedance tuner system including a signal transmission line and an electronically-controllable impedance-varying system coupled to the signal transmission line for affecting the impedance presented by the signal transmission line. The controller has a communication port, and an electronic processor configured to process external command signals and generate electronic control signals to configure the impedance-varying system in response to the command signals. An electronic memory stores sets of data and one or more web pages. The controller has a communication server and is configured to receive or send signals through a communication channel from or to a client computer system. The communication server is configured to be responsive to a request message from a client computer system to send a response comprising a web page to the client computer system.

Abstract: A measuring system is described which includes a sensor for receiving an electromagnetic wave and a guide component for guiding the electromagnetic wave. The guide component is embodied as an elongated, preferably metal, profile component which contains, in a longitudinal direction, a slot for guiding the electromagnetic wave.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for classifying and/or ablating tissue. By directing microwave radiation through a probe (5) into tissue (6) and detecting the amplitude and phase of radiation reflected back through the probe and a reference signal, the tissue type can be classified. An impedance tuner which is actuated by magnetostrictive material (800) is also disclosed.

Abstract: Electromagnetic proximity detection method for a buried structure executed with a mobile detection device, including sensing an electromagnetic field emitted from the structure as an analog electrical signal and digitalizing the analog electrical signal as a digital signal, performed after or while filtering the analog and/or digital signal. The proximity of the buried structure is determined by analyzing the digital signal, wherein the detection method can be alternatively executed in at least two of the following modes of detection: Power-Mode of detection, Radio-Mode of detection or Active-Mode of detection. An additional Switching-Mode of operation includes a repeated sequential detection in at least two of the mentioned modes of detection and is done by automatic subsequent alternating of the mode of detection with a minimum rate of alternation that an area of detection is coverable by the at least two modes of detection in a single execution of the detection method.

Abstract: A microwave imaging sensor is disclosed for continuously monitoring the condition and status of an in situ reverse osmosis membrane that forms a semi-permeable barrier between a region of water containing a dissolved salt and a region of water which is intended to be substantially free of the dissolved salt. A device according to embodiments of the invention can be used to monitor the condition of the membrane, i.e., the ability of the membrane to filter water by reverse osmosis; and to detect failures in the membrane such as leaking saline water into the output stream. The results of the monitoring can be used to determine in real time whether or not the membrane should be replaced.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for detecting a covered dielectric object, where a microwave signal that can be modified in frequency is generated at a particular bandwidth and transmitted in the direction of the covered dielectric object. The microwave signal reflected by the object is then obtained from the three-dimensional measurement result in a lateral, two-dimensional pattern, a highest signal amplitude and a second-highest signal amplitude within a particular time period before or after the received microwave signal is identified in a plurality of pattern points of the pattern. The object is detected if an accumulation of pattern points of the pattern is present, in which the difference in each case between the highest and the second highest signal amplitude of the received microwave signal is less than a defined threshold value.

Abstract: Provided are a resonator and a biosensor system including the same. The resonator may have a flat plate shape to increase a filling factor of a sample, thereby improving measurement sensitivity. Also, the resonator may be miniaturized, and thus the biosensor system including the resonator may also be miniaturized.

Abstract: A method for the configuration of a multi-static measuring device with an antenna arrangement, which is formed from several antenna clusters, each of which comprises several transmitting antennas and several receiving antennas, is characterised by the formation of configuration groups and associated group apertures. A configuration group is configured through the allocation of a subset of the antenna clusters of the antenna arrangement to a configuration group. At least one subset of the antenna clusters of this configuration group is configured as a receiving cluster in which exclusively the receiving antennas are activated. At least one subset of the antenna clusters of the configuration group are configured as transmitting clusters by activating the transmitting antennas. Microwave signals radiated from all transmitting antennas of all transmitting clusters of the configuration group and reflected on an object are measured in every receiving antenna of the receiving clusters of the configuration group.

Abstract: A method of assembling a sensor probe for use in a sensor assembly is provided. The method includes providing an emitter configured to generate at least one forward propagating electromagnetic field from at least one microwave signal and to generate at least one backward propagating electromagnetic field. A data conduit is coupled to the emitter. Moreover, a ground conductor is extended substantially circumferentially about the data conduit. The ground conductor is configured to substantially reduce electromagnetic radiation within the sensor assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring s-parameters using as few as one pulser and two samplers is described. The apparatus calibrates itself automatically using the internal calibration standards.

Abstract: A coaxial probe is for a TDR fill-level measuring instrument, in which probe the inner conductor is connected to the outer conductor via a terminating resistor. The terminating resistor is mounted in a cylindrical recess in the inner conductor and sealed with respect to the measuring environment. In this way, the measurement of the fill level in the region of the probe end can be improved.

Abstract: Sensor assemblies used to detect the proximity of a material to a microwave element are disclosed. One example sensor assembly includes a signal generator configured to generate at least one microwave signal, a coupler connected to the signal generator, a microwave element coupled to the coupler, and a processing module connected to the coupler. The microwave element is configured to generate an electromagnetic field as a function of said at least one microwave signal. The microwave element is structured to reflect a loading signal to said coupler when a material interacts with the electromagnetic field. The processing module is configured to process the loading signal with a reference signal to generate a data signal representative of the proximity of the material to the microwave element. The data signal defines a sub-microwave frequency.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a stable local oscillator, which includes a first control loop. The first control loop includes a first voltage-controlled oscillator configured to generate a first output signal and a first phase-locked loop. The apparatus also includes a frequency up-converter configured to increase a frequency of the first output signal. The apparatus further includes a second control loop configured to receive the up-converted first output signal. The second control loop includes a second voltage-controlled oscillator configured to generate a second output signal and a second phase-locked loop. The second control loop may further include a mixer having a first input coupled to the frequency up-converter, a second input coupled to the second voltage-controlled oscillator, and an output coupled to the second phase-locked loop. A reference frequency source may be configured to generate a signal identifying a reference frequency and to provide that signal to the phase-locked loops.

Abstract: A calibration method and apparatus for surgical antennas which are arranged to deliver microwave radiation (e.g. having a treatment frequency of 500 MHz to 100 GHz) into biological tissue is disclosed. An emitting region of the antenna is exposed to a plurality of calibration standards each having a different complex impedance at the treatment frequency. In one embodiment the calibration standards are created in a short-circuit-terminated waveguide cavity of variable length. In another embodiment, each calibration standard is a different mixture of two or more liquids. Measurement of the magnitude and phase of signals reflected from the emitting region when exposed to the calibration standard can permit calibration of the antenna, e.g. by generating a mapping function based on the measured values and known or reference values for the calibration standards.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention provides an imager, preferably portable, that includes a source of electromagnetic radiation capable of generating radiation with one or more frequencies in a range of about 1 GHz to about 2000 GHz. An optical system that is optically coupled to the source focuses radiation received therefrom onto an object plane, and directs at least a portion of the focused radiation propagating back from the object plane onto an image plane. The imager further includes a scan mechanism coupled to the optical system for controlling thereof so as to move the focused radiation over the object plane. A detector optically coupled to the lens at the image plane detects at least a portion of the radiation propagating back from a plurality of scanned locations in the object plane, thereby generating a detection signal. A processor that is in communication with the detector generates an image of at least a portion of the object plane based on the detection signal.

Abstract: A radio frequency (RF) object detector is disclosed. The RF object detector in example embodiments transmits an RF signal. A receiver measures the amplitude, the phase, or both the amplitude and phase of the signal as reflected from objects in an interrogation zone. The RF object detector can be deployed in a combined system that performs multiple functions. For example, the RF object detector can be integrated with an EAS system that also sends RFID commands and receives RFID responses. In some embodiments the object detector can discriminate between moving objects and stationary objects, and/or discriminate between objects in the interrogation zone and objects outside the interrogation zone, and/or provide location estimates. An antenna or antennas can be connected in a mono-static or bi-static configuration and the phase and/or amplitude signals can be either DC-coupled or AC-coupled into the system through a mixer.

Abstract: An open sensor is provided for testing a split sample of a composite medium. The open sensor generally includes a longitudinal section of a tube and a plurality of serpentine conductors which are successively layered on top of each other. The interior surface of the tube section forms a trough into which the split sample of the composite medium can be disposed. The number of serpentine conductors is two or greater.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention provides an imager, preferably portable, that includes a source of electromagnetic radiation capable of generating radiation with one or more frequencies in a range of about 1 GHz to about 2000 GHz. An optical system that is optically coupled to the source focuses radiation received therefrom onto an object plane, and directs at least a portion of the focused radiation propagating back from the object plane onto an image plane. The imager further includes a scan mechanism coupled to the optical system for controlling thereof so as to move the focused radiation over the object plane. A detector optically coupled to the lens at the image plane detects at least a portion of the radiation propagating back from a plurality of scanned locations in the object plane, thereby generating a detection signal. A processor that is in communication with the detector generates an image of at least a portion of the object plane based on the detection signal.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for determining the speed of a rolling stock, for example the belt speed of a rolling belt, wherein electromagnetic radiation in the microwave range is transmitted to the rolling stock by at least one transmitting and receiving device and the belt speed is determined on the basis of the reflected and received reflection signal in an evaluation device. A device for carrying out such method is also disclosed.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for non-destructive measurements of coating thicknesses on a curved surface by measuring components of the microwave energy reflected from the surface. Preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a portable microwave thickness detector with a rounded rocker-type base allowing the microwave beam to be moved through a range of angles with respect to the target surface. An optical alignment system determines when the microwave angle of incidence is at a desired angle when the components of the reflected microwave energy are measured. Preferred embodiments of the present invention also provide a portable microwave thickness detector which maintains a constant standoff distance between the between the microwave detector and the sample to be measured.

Abstract: A subsea line monitoring device includes a diagnostic unit adapted to be deployed, in use, in a subsea location and having a first connector, the diagnostic unit being operable, in use, to output a signal indicative of the integrity of a line or device connected to the first connector. The subsea line monitoring device may be deployed on a long term or permanent basis at the subsea location.

Abstract: A container position measuring method using a microwave sensor 31 which emits microwave 35 and receives reflected wave of the microwave 35, wherein a position of a corner portion of a transportation container is measured by reflected wave from the corner portion. The microwave 35 is not influenced by weather and color of a transportation container 18. Therefore it is possible to reliably measure position data of the transportation container. The microwave 35 does not easily receive the influence of weather and color of the transportation container. The present invention provides a position measuring method capable of stably measure position data of the transportation container.

Abstract: A microwave diffraction system includes two plates, a lattice model, a transmitter and a detector. The two plates are electrically conductive and configured in a parallel manner so as to form a planar waveguide. The lattice model includes a plurality of cylinders arranged in regular order and is placed between the two plates. The transmitter is arranged at an outside edge of the planar waveguide and configured for providing a microwave towards the lattice model. The detector is arranged at outside edge of the planar waveguide and configured for detecting the microwave reflected from the lattice model. The diffraction pattern obtained by the above-mentioned microwave diffraction system is similar to theoretical value.

Abstract: An apparatus for ascertaining and monitoring a fill level and includes a transmitting/receiving unit and a delay circuit. The delay circuit includes at least a sampling clocking oscillator, which produces a sampling signal having a sampling frequency, a transmission clocking oscillator, which produces a pulse repetition signal having a pulse repetition frequency, and a frequency converter, which produces by means of sequential sampling a difference signal. The apparatus further includes a control/evaluation unit, which determines on the basis of travel time the fill level. Provided on the control/evaluation unit is an external clocking input, which is connected via a clocking line with a first clocking output of the sampling clocking oscillator or with a second clocking output of the transmission clocking oscillator. A stabilized and cost-favorable control circuit for producing an intermediate frequency signal with a highly accurately determinable, transformation factor results.

Abstract: In an electronic device and a method of correcting time-domain reflectometers, two channels of a time-domain reflectometer are connected to a corrector using cables, and the two channels are enabled to transmit pulses. Parameters Step Deskew and Channel Deskew of the two channels are zeroed. Resistance values of the two channels are measured simultaneously, and the value of the parameter Step Deskew of one of the two channels is adjusted according to the Resistance values of the two channels. Times of achieving the same resistance value of the two channels are measured after the cables and the connector have been disconnected, and the value of the parameter Channel Deskew of one of the two channels is adjusted according to the times of achieving the same resistance value. The adjusted values of the parameters Step Deskew and Channel Deskew are displayed through a display unit.

Abstract: A microwave motion sensor including a transmitting device, a signal processing device, a signal processing device, and a path switching device is disclosed. The transmitting device transmits a microwave signal to a space under detection. The receiving device receives a reflected microwave signal reflected from the space under detection. The signal processing device processes the reflected microwave signal received by the receiving device to judge whether there is a disturbance in the space under detection, wherein the signal processing device generates the microwave signal. The path switching device is coupled to the signal processing device and the transmitting device and results in different phase shifts to a plurality of transmission paths travelled by the microwave signal.

Abstract: A waveform-adaptive ultra-wideband (UWB) transmitter and noise-tracking UWB receiver for use in communications, object detection and radar applications. In one embodiment, the output of an oscillator is gated by a low-level impulse generator either directly or through an optional filter. In a special case of that embodiment wherein the oscillator is zero frequency and outputs a DC bias, a low-level impulse generator impulse-excites a bandpass filter to produce an UWB signal having an adjustable center frequency and desired bandwidth based on a characteristic of the filter. In another embodiment, the low-level impulse signal is approximated by a time-gated continuous-wave oscillator to produce an extremely wide bandwidth pulse with deterministic center frequency and bandwidth characteristics. The low-level impulse signal can be generated digitally. The UWB signal may be modulated to carry data, or may be used in object detection or ranging applications.