Abstract: A method and system for measuring the moisture content and internal structure of a material which is either packaged as a module or presented in a continues bulk flow. A frequency modulated digital pulse of very high frequency microwaves is directed through the material under analysis by a microwave transmitter. A microwave receiver receives the microwave signal after it exits the material on the opposite side to that of the microwave transmitter. The attenuation and time delay of the exit signal are analyzed and corrected with empirically derived functions so as to calculate the moisture content and density, respectively, of the material. Irregularity of the internal structure of the material is determined by comparing the calculated densities of multiple slices of the material with each other.

Abstract: On-site percolation testing apparatus comprising a constant head flow unit disposed within a generally cylindrical, percolation chamber to be positioned within the in-ground test site. The constant head flow unit includes a J-shaped conduit for intermittently delivering water from a predetermined supply of water to the chamber. A first end of the conduit extends up from and out of the chamber in direct communication with the water supply. A second end thereof, disposed within the chamber, includes an automatic shut-off valve to control the flow of water through the conduit into the chamber. Cooperating with the shut-off valve is a floating member positioned to move up and down as the water level changes. As the floating member moves down it contacts the shut-off valve and opens same to release water into the chamber. With the water rising, the floating member moves out of contact with the valve allowing the water pressure of the incoming water to again close the valve.

Abstract: A method of determining the moisture content of a module of tobacco material, the method comprising the steps of: (a) transmitting a plurality of microwaves substantially through a portion of the module, such that the microwaves are transmitted microwaves; (b) receiving the transmitted microwaves such that the microwaves are received microwaves; (c) determining a phase shift and an attenuation from the received microwaves; (d) repeating steps (a) to (c) for at least a portion of the material on the module, such that a plurality of phase shifts and a plurality of attenuations is obtained; (e) using at least one empirical factor selected from the group consisting of weight of the module, temperature of the module, shape of the module and type of the material to correct the plurality of attenuations, producing a plurality of corrected attenuations; (f) calculating a raw moisture content of the material from the corrected attenuations; (g) determining a density of the material from the phase shifts; and (h) calcu

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with a moisture sensor for measuring the moisture content of particulate material like ore concentrates. The sensor comprises a body having one end to be buried within the bulk of the particulate material and the other end coupled to a force transducer. The force transducer itself is coupled to display means, so that when a conveyor containing the ore concentrate is in operation, a signal is generated from the force transducer and displayed as a result of the drag force exerted by the particulate material on the body. The moisture content may therefore be determined either by means of a calibration chart, or by the output of a calibration computer.

Abstract: A hay bale moisture measuring device comprising a bimetalic, probe forming a single cell battery uses the hay and the moisture therein as the electrolytes to provide an internal cell resistance measurement which is calculated in an electronic circuit according to a predetermined algorithm into a hay moisture measurement which is further biased for hay temperature, bale configuration, hay type, cutting and density by the same circuit.

Abstract: A measurement apparatus for sensing three properties of materials including a fixed impedance element coupled in series with the sensor array between an input signal and a reference potential (e.g. ground). The sensor array of the apparatus is an electrode configuration which includes a first elongated electrode coupled to the reference potential and second and third segmented elongated electrodes being parallel to and essentially in the same plane as the first elongated electrode. The segments within the second and third electrodes are configured such that the segments in the second electrode are staggered with respect to segments in the third electrode thereby minimizing or eliminating spacing between detection cells within the sensor array, reducing overall size of the sensor array and increasing measurement resolution. The sensor array exhibits a variable impedance resulting from changes in physical characteristics of the material.

Abstract: The invention refers to methods for assessing absorbent structures (10) for their fluid handling ability by using materials (110) having a moisture pick up ability which is very close to the one of human skin. This is achieved by using materials (110) which do not function based on capillary transport for moisture, but which comprise as an essential element swellable but non-soluble materials in a film form. Such materials (110) can be based on proteins, Glycin, Prolin, 4-hydroxyprolin, naturally occurring sugars, glycerin, sorbit and collagen. A particularly preferred material is a film material comprising collagen. To simulate a baby's weight upon the absorbent structure (10), a load (16) may be utilized therewith.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the moisture content measurement of compressible materials using pressure to firmly hold surface probes against the material to be measured. The apparatus uses moisture measurement circuitry employed in frequency domain impedance or time domain reflectometry devices to obtain moisture content readings from materials. These moisture content readings are based on the apparent dielectric constant of the measured material. Subsurface air voids or gaps found in loose, layered materials undesirably influence moisture measurement readings by reducing the apparent dielectric constant of the measured material. Pressure is supplied through the apparatus to the material in the proximity of the surface probes, thereby reducing air voids to enhance measurement accuracy. The apparatus and method are especially useful for compressible organic materials such as forest duff, hay and soil.

Abstract: A probe for use in sensing moisture content of bulk grain or other granular material comprises a cylindrical tube, for example of plastics, having a tapering nose, and having adjacent said nose first and second electrical conductors wound helically around the tube so that the turns of one conductor are spaced from, and alternate with, the turns of the other conductor. The conductors are electrically insulated from one another by the plastics tube but are exposed on the surface of the tube, or project slightly from such surface, for direct electrical contact with the granular material. The conductors extend through respective apertures in the plastics tube and are connected within the tube to respective insulated conductors extending to electronic measuring circuitry within a handle of the probe.

Abstract: The electrical conductivity of laundry in a laundry drum is measured and the moisture content is determined from the measured quantity. A polarization voltage, which corrupts the measurement result, is formed at the electrodes. In order to compensate for this disturbing influence, as well as for other material and aging effects, the conductivity measurement is briefly interrupted and the polarization voltage which is present across the electrodes and has formed during the conductivity measurement is measured. The measured error voltage is used to compensate the laundry voltage measured during the previous conductivity measurement. This improves the determination of the conductivity, and thus of the moisture content, considerably. The method is particularly suitable for a microcontroller.

Abstract: The combination of a growing medium for a horticultural product, a horticultural product within the growing medium, and a sensor having a body made up of a porous material that changes in physical appearance with a change in the amount of moisture retained by the porous material. In an operative state, the first part of the sensor body resides within the growing medium and a second part of the body remains visible to allow a user to ascertain through the appearance of the second part of the sensor the amount of moisture in the growing medium.

Abstract: The temperature and/or moisture profile over time of gypsum boards is monitored as the boards harden, to facilitate effective curing of the boards prior to removing excess water therein in an industrial dryer. A substrate is moved by a curing conveyor beneath a gypsum slurry mixer, and the mixer pours slurry onto the substrate. Just prior to the substrate passing under the mixer, an operator places a monitor onto the substrate. The monitor can include a temperature sensor, a conductivity sensor, and a microprocessor that receives and stores the signals from the sensors. The monitor is configured such that the height of the sensor or sensors is equal to one-half the height of the hardening boards. The slurry that has poured onto the monitor hardens into a test board, and when the test board arrives at the end of the curing conveyor, an operator breaks open the test board, removes the monitor, and connects the microprocessor in the monitor to a computer via a serial port cable.

Abstract: A test kit for measuring vapor emission from a concrete floor or other planar surface prior to installing a flooring material includes a relatively rigid dome-shaped cover having an outer bottom rim for seating with the planar surface to be tested when the cover is placed on the surface over an uncovered container of moisture absorptive material such as calcium chloride. The test kit further includes a weight ring that is removably placed onto a shoulder portion of the cover located at the cover's outer bottom rim. Placement of the weight ring on the dome-shaped cover during tests acts to hold the outer bottom rim of the cover in seating contact with the test surface. The test kit is easy to use and provides for reusable components. It can also be used without leaving a residue on the test surface.

Abstract: A portable grain moisture meter has a large 16 character digital display allowing an alphabetical list of grain selections to be selectably displayed in full text fonnat and subsequently tested for moisture content with the test results also displayed on the same display. The alphabetical display of grains may be changes to various differing languages with the alphabetical display remaining intact. Certain grains may be deleted from the alphabetical display to provide a sequential display of only frequently tested grains.

Abstract: A gravimetric cup for containing a liquid sample to be measured for moisture or vapor transmission loss therefrom, such gravimetric cup having a lower cup body and a cover, the cover having an outer edge rim alignable with an upper edge rim of the cup for mounting a film membrane thereacross, and the cover having radial, upwardly curved ribs extending between the outer edge rim and a center hub region so as to provide an evenly distributed clamping force upon the membrane. The cup body has a pair of upwardly projecting posts, each having an engagement channel. A clamping bar has slotted ends for engaging against the respective post engagement channels, and a center threaded hole for receiving the threaded shank of a tightening knob that applies downward force to the cover.

Abstract: The invention consists of a method and apparatus for estimating screened pulp yield using water uptake rate of a sample of screened pulp chips. A dried chip sample is placed in a wire basket and totally immersed in water. A balance records the rate of water uptake over a period of about 35 seconds. This is preferably entered directly into a computer to give an output closely predicting the yield of screened pulp.

Abstract: Method and equipment for the manufacture of corrugated paper products includes separate heaters for preparing liner and medium components. Data regarding these components is collected and an optimum conditioning for the components is determined. High voltage sensors, associated electronic circuitry and computer controls are used to determine surface moisture values.

Abstract: A two cell tensiometer is described in which water level in the lower cell is maintained at a relatively constant height, and in equilibrium with the water pressure of materials that surround the tensiometer. An isolated volume of air in the lower cell changes pressure proportionately to the changing water pressure of the materials that surround the tensiometer. The air pressure is measured remotely. The tensiometer can be used in drying as well as wetting cycles above and below the water table.

Abstract: A tampon wetness detection system which includes (a) a housing having a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal end being shaped and dimensioned for insertion into a distal end of an absorbent body insertable into a vagina, the proximal end of the housing being fluid permeable; (b) a radio frequency identification device being implemented in the housing, the radio frequency identification device including a transmitter; (c) a conductive wetness sensor being in the proximal end of the housing and in electrical communication with the radio frequency identification device, such that when the conductive wetness sensor senses wetness the radio frequency identification device is operable; and (d) a remote reporting device including a receiver for receiving a radio signal concerning the wetness of the absorbent body from the radio frequency identification device and further including a reporting mechanism for reporting a user of the wetness of the absorbent body.

Abstract: A measuring instrument for measuring the matrix potential in a soil, has a measuring cell with a housing that includes at least in certain sections thereof, material permitting the moisture of the soil to penetrate into the interior of the housing, at least two electrodes which are arranged in said housing in spaced relationship with each other and a dielectric which fills the space between said electrodes and the inner wall of the housing, a measurement evaluation circuit which detects the water content in the dielectric of the measuring cell by measurement of changes of permittivity of the dielectric and determines, on the basis of said water content and on the basis of a known relationship between the water content and the matrix potential of the dielectric used, the matrix potential prevailing in the dielectric, and which displays said matrix potential as a measuring result.

Abstract: A water adding control apparatus includes a microwave detecting unit which enables the detection of microwave value proportional to the water content amount of the water added grain and which makes it unnecessary to make calculations for an estimated water content value of the water added grains. The water adding process is started by inputting initial water adding amount, the microwave value of the raw grain after the addition of water is measured, the measured microwave value is set as the target microwave value which serves as control reference, and the water adding amount is feed-back controlled for the actually measured microwave value to constantly match the target microwave value.

Abstract: A humidity detection material includes oxide of at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ca, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu. The metal oxide is preferably in the form of a porous material. The metal oxide is formed preferably in the form of a thin film on a transparent substrate. The humidity detection material is contacted with water vapor in the presence of a gas such as air, and the optical absorbance of the humidity detection material is measured to detect the humidity. The humidity can be detected by an optical method.

Abstract: An infrared moisture measuring apparatus includes a first infrared light-emitting diode (LED) for emitting infrared rays of a measuring beam whose infrared absorption varies by the moisture content of an object to be measured and a second infrared LED for emitting infrared rays of a reference beam whose infrared absorption does not substantially vary by the moisture content of an object to measured. Also, an optical system is provided for illuminating the infrared rays of the measuring and reference beams emitted by the first and second infrared LEDs on the object and focusing the infrared rays reflected from the object, and an InGaAs light-receiving device is provided for receiving the infrared rays focused by the optical system and outputting a light-received signal which corresponds to a light quantity of the received infrared rays. The moisture value of the object is obtained based on the light-received signal output from the InGaAs light-receiving device.

Abstract: A hair-care appliance measures the moistness of the hair by measuring the resistance (R.sub.x) of the hair between measurement electrodes (14A/14B). The hair resistance (R.sub.x) is included in a T network comprising a first resistor (20) driven by a voltage source (28) and a second resistor (24). The signal current (I.sub.s) through the second resistor is measured and converted into a measurement signal (MS) by a converter (30). As a result of the use of the T network a comparatively large resistance variation of the hair resistance (R.sub.x) is required for a given amplitude variation in the signal current (I.sub.s). This allows measurements over a wider resistance range while the resolution is maintained.

Abstract: A sensing device includes a pair of sensing electrodes disposed within a medium and a circuit connected to the sensing electrodes via impedance matching networks for producing an output signal which varies in response to a capacitive change in the medium. The circuit includes a first circuit portion including the sensing electrodes and a second circuit portion including the oscillator. The first and second circuit portions are tuned to match their impedance for more accurately measuring the capacitive changes.

Abstract: Disclosed is a control system for regulating irrigation to an area of land. The irrigation control system includes a control unit, a photosensor, a timer or controller and a moisture probe for sensing the moisture level in the area to be watered. The control unit is configured to disable power to the system if the moisture level in the area of land exceeds a predetermined level as measured by the moisture probe, which is buried in the watering area. In a preferred embodiment, the moisture probe consists of two electrode plates, preferably manufactured of high purity copper, that are oriented parallel to one another. The electrode plates each have a predetermined length and thickness and are separated by a predetermined distance, each of which are configured to optimize the moisture detecting characteristics of the probe. The control unit applies an electrical potential across the electrode plates such that the resistance of the soil located therebetween varies as a function of moisture content.

Abstract: A device for measuring the moisture content of a module of material, including: (a) a source of microwave radiation for producing a microwave radiation source beam, at least a portion of the source being located on one side of the module; (b) at least one microwave antenna located on an opposing side of the module for receiving an exit beam and for producing an antenna signal, the exit beam being the source beam after a transition from the source to the antenna; (c) an attenuation unit for receiving a first portion of the antenna signal and for measuring an attenuation of the antenna signal; (d) a phase shift determiner for receiving a portion of the source beam and a second portion of the antenna signal and for determining a phase shift of the source beam and the antenna signal, the phase shift determiner including: (i) a raw phase shift measurer for determining a raw phase shift of the source beam and the antenna signal; and (ii) a phase region determiner for determining a phase region of the raw phase shif

Abstract: A moisture detection meter (10) has a sensing head having a single chamber (11) with an open top. A dielectric resonator member (14) is provided in the chamber. The sensing head also has a field generator (17) to generate an oscillating electric fluid in the chamber. The resonator member (14) and the field interact to produce at least one field component which is directed out of the open top of the chamber to interact with stock passing over the sensing head. A detection device is also provided to detect the frequency of resonance of the field compact after interaction with the stock and an indicator device is provided so as to give an output indicative of the moisture content of the stock.

Abstract: A device for signaling a predetermined soil moisture condition includes a switching tensiometer that closes a switch when the root water tension reaches a predetermined level; a power source connected to the switching tensiometer; and a signal connected to the switching tensiometer so that when the switching tensiometer closes the switch, power source is connected to the signal operate the signal to indicate that the predetermined soil moisture condition has been reached. The signal preferably includes a spring-loaded flag that operates between a retracted position and an extended signal position; a latch for releasably securing the flag in its retracted position, and an electrically operated release that releases the latch to allow the flag to operate to its extended signal position.

Abstract: A method for measuring moisture content along a drying line is described by the following stages: A first stage in which a predetermined (weight) quantity of product is withdrawn. A second stage in which, using a piece-counting system, the number of pieces forming the quantity of product withdrawn during the first stage is counted. A third stage in which the number of pieces of product is compared with predetermined values. The main advantage of this method its immediate response.

Abstract: A rain sensor system automatically controls windshield wiper action such as the length of time between windshield wiper strokes and/or wiper motor speed and is preferably integrated with a vehicle antenna. The rain sensor system comprises first and second electrical conductors spaced uniformly from one another and an electrical insulator interposed therebetween. A dual network voltage divider circuit couples the first conductor to an applied reference DC voltage level, and the second conductor is coupled to ground potential via a similar network. Airborne raindrops and moisture temporarily adhere to the exposed surfaces of the insulator to electrically couple the exposed surfaces of the first and second conductive surfaces to lower the electrical resistance therebetween. The magnitude of the applied voltage changes in relation to the intensity of rainfall or amount of raindrops adhering to the conductors to affect the rate of windshield wiper action.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method and measuring device for determining the water content of a gas. The measuring device comprises a measuring sensor arrangement which consists of: a capacitive sensor thermally coupled to a heating element and to a temperature sensor; an energy source connected to the heating element; a first evaluation circuit connected to the temperature sensor. The heating element and the temperature sensor are formed by a common temperature-dependent resistor. Together with the temperature dependent resistor and the energy source, the second evaluation circuit forms a control circuit for keeping the temperature of the capacitive sensor constant. As a function of the capacity of the capacitive sensor as the sole variable the first evaluation circuit determines the actual value of the relative humidity of the gas from previously determined calibrating values at the same constant temperature by interpolation or extrapolation of the calibrating values.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for preparing compositions or slurries containing edible surfactants (generally at low levels) or no surfactants at all using an NMR sensor designed to measure water or solids content of the composition on-line.

Abstract: A tensiometer to in situ determine below-grade soil moisture, potential of earthen soil includes, a) an apparatus adapted for insertion into earthen soil below grade, the apparatus having a below-grade portion, and, comprising; b) a porous material provided in the below-grade portion, the porous material at least in part defining a below-grade first fluid chamber; c) a first fluid conduit extending outwardly of the first fluid chamber; d) a first controllable isolation valve provided within the first fluid conduit, the first controllable isolation valve defining a second fluid chamber in fluid communication with the first fluid chamber through the first fluid conduit and the isolation valve, the first controllable isolation valve being received within the below-grade portion; and e) a pressure transducer in fluid communication with the first fluid chamber, the pressure transducer being received within the below-grade portion.

Abstract: A probing apparatus having an elastic body supported by a support and provided with a probe at its free end. The elastic body is disposed in a solution in which a sample is held. The elastic body is forcibly oscillated at its natural frequency by a driving source. A displacement detecting device detects a variation in the oscillation state of the elastic body which takes place when the tip of the probe is placed in the vicinity of the surface of the sample. The detected output from the displacement detecting device is fed to a sample data monitor device to provide a topographic image thereon.

Abstract: A method is provided for accurately and easily measuring properties of sand. This method includes the steps of measuring contraction properties of the sand, determining a molding parameter for molding a test piece of the sand having a known size based on the measurements of the contraction properties before the test piece is press-molded, press-molding the test piece by compacting a feed of the sand in accordance with the molding parameter, and measuring the properties of the sand by measuring properties of the test piece.

Abstract: The invention relates to a test probe (1) primarily intended to be applied in structural material (2) during the production and/or building stage or when water damage has occured in a building and in which moisture measurement can be done undisturbed from outer factors in following the drying out process of built in moisture or other inconvenient, supplied moisture which can cause troubles in the form of mold and/or damages caused by putrefaction, as well as damages on floor coverings and other structural elements. The test probe (1) comprises an active part (3) of a hygroscopic material which is enclosed in an outer, mechanical cover (4), said cover has that property to allow passage of water steam, but prevents passage of water in liquid.

Abstract: Foundry sand testing apparatus, method and system are provided for testing foundry sand. A computer foundry sand testing system includes at least one sensor for sensing predetermined characteristics of the foundry sand and for generating a signal. A processor coupled to the sensor processes the generated signal. A display is operatively controlled by the processor for displaying predetermined test information responsive to the generated signal. Predefined displays for receiving user selections and for displaying of test information are automatically generated. The generated displays of test information include real-time stress-strain curves and multiple calculated values utilizing the stress-strain curves.

Abstract: A fixture for use in the microwave measurement of the moisture content of grain comprises a hollow support member, an antenna support assembly supporting antennas for transmitting and receiving microwaves, and a sample scoop. The support member, antenna support assembly and scoop are made of a low dielectric plastic material which has negligible effect on the microwaves. The antenna support assembly includes a cylindrical sleeve with two support stubs extending radially outwardly from the sleeve. The support member has two recesses in its top surface for receiving the stubs so as to position the antenna support assembly and the antennas relative to the support member. The sleeve has an inside diameter slightly greater than the outside diameter of the scoop so that the scoop may be inserted into the sleeve and rest on the same supporting surface as the support member.

Abstract: A system and method for measuring the stickiness of agricultural solids such as cotton is provided. A reference moisture level of a sample is measured in a manner not responsive to the presence of sugars. The sugar-based moisture content of the sample is measured by sensors responsive to the presence of sugars. The difference between the reference moisture level and the sugar-based moisture content provides a measure of the relative stickiness of the sample.

Abstract: A device for indicating the water content of a medium into which the device is inserted, and which includes a scale which mounts a body of a water-swellable hydrogel. The scale has marked thereon an indication of water content, such that contact of the hydrogel body with water or moisture in the medium causes a peripheral portion of the hydrogel to expand and such that the position of the expanded peripheral portion in conjunction with the scale indicates the water content of the medium.

Abstract: A moisture testing device having various applications including the testing of moisture in the thermal insulation of insulated pipe, the device having a readout and related components connected to a detector assembly which is pivotally mounted at the end of an adjustable pole. The detector assembly utilizes the principle of neutron back scatter or neutron moderation which is known for measuring water and hydrogen, but it is designed as a highly efficient screening device which can for example test thousands of feet of pipe in a day.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring isotherms comprising a two-pressure and/or two-temperature humidity generator having a temperature controlled internal chamber and a microbalance mounted externally such that the mass of a sample suspended within the chamber can be determined without disturbing the controlled environment surrounding the sample. The two-pressure humidity generator has a front panel for controlling humidity and temperature within the internal chamber and an access port that extends into the internal chamber. The balance is situated near the port such that the balance mechanism extends within the internal cheer. The balance mechanism utilizes a means for holding a sample within the chamber such that the mass of the sample can be determined as it equilibrates to the temperature and relative humidity maintained within the internal cavity.

Abstract: A differential capacitive moisture sensor, relying for its operation on the time-varying couplings in two moisture-sensing regions to provide indication of presence of moisture, with selectivity of sensing surface provided by a shielding electrode, and with temperature information provided by a simultaneously-fabricated resistive temperature sensor. Various electrode connections and sensor electronics may be used.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for monitoring a fabric. An acoustic probe generates acoustic waves relative to the fabric. An acoustic sensor, such as an accelerometer is coupled to the acoustic probe for generating a signal representative of cavitation activity in the fabric. The generated cavitation activity representative signal is processed to indicate moisture content of the fabric. A feature of the invention is a feedback control signal is generated responsive to the generated cavitation activity representative signal. The feedback control signal can be used to control the energy level of the generated acoustic waves and to control the application of a cleaning solution to the fabric.

Abstract: A plate array for moisture sensors has a transmitter electrode and a detector electrode interposed between portions of a phase electrode. The transmitter and phase electrodes are driven with alternating current signals having a one hundred and eighty degree phase difference so as to induce a signal at the detector electrode relating to a moisture content of a material in the electrical fields which has a reduced sensitivity to electrically loading the material, such as from contact with a hand or steel roller.

Abstract: An absorbent product containing sphagnum moss selected from the group of botanical sections consisting of PALUSTRIA, ACUTIFOLIA, RIGIDA, SUBSECUNDA and CUSPIDATA. The invention also extends to a novel method for manufacturing a highly absorbent structure and to a method for evaluating the liquid absorbent properties of a sphagnum moss composition.

Abstract: Microwave clothes dryer with a moisture sensor having an array of short coaxial cables extending through an electrically conductive base plate which is grounded to the shielding structure of the dryer. The ends of the cables are flush with one side of the plate and are exposed for contact with clothes in the dryer chamber. Electrical resistance is monitored between the inner conductors and the plate to determine the dryness of clothes, and the dryer is shut down when the resistance reaches a predetermined level.

Abstract: A rain sensor having two non-contacting conductive paths which are aligned parallel to each other and are arranged on the windshield of a motor vehicle, with an evaluation electronics system connected to them. In order to create a rain sensor having the smallest possible dimensions, the width of at least one conductive path is made non-constant over its length.

Abstract: A portable tensiometer to in situ determine below-grade soil moisture potential of earthen soil includes, a) a body having opposing first and second ends and being adapted for complete insertion into earthen soil below grade; b) a porous material provided at the first body end, the porous material at least in part defining a fluid chamber within the body at the first body end, the fluid chamber being fluidically sealed within the body but for the porous material; c) a degassed liquid received within the fluid chamber; d) a pressure transducer mounted in fluid communication with the fluid chamber; e) the body, pressure transducer and degassed liquid having a combined mass; f) a flexible suspension line connected to the body adjacent the second body end, the flexible line being of sufficient strength to gravitationally freely self suspend the combined mass; and c) the combined mass being sufficient to effectively impart hydraulic communication between below-grade earthen soil contacted by the porous material un