Abstract: This invention provides apparatus and a method which self-adjust the pressure response of a digitizer pointing device or other device incorporating a pressure transducer according to the characteristics of the particular device and/or particular user of the device. For example, a digitizer user when inputting with a stylus pointing device may use different writing styles in simulated paint brush and in simulated chalk, or, the user may use the stylus device entirely differently when using it in a game or in a graphic arts application, or different users may use the same stylus device differently for the same application. Certain pressure parameters of the device are not set on a fixed basis, which would provide for an average, typical or generic pressure range and resolution.

Abstract: A system for measuring the moisture content of a multi-layer bale of material, comprising a source of microwave radiation disposed on a first side of the bale for directing a circularly polarized source beam through the bale in a direction substantially parallel to the layers thereof so as to exit from the bale as an exit beam and a conveyor for conveying the bale past the source of microwave radiation. A pair of microwave antennas are disposed on an opposite side of the bale for receiving mutually orthogonal components of the exit beam permitting determination of a maximum amplitude of the exit beam corresponding to an amplitude of the exit beam in a direction normal to the layers of the bale. This permits calculation of an attenuation of the beam consequent to absorption by moisture in the bale and thus allows the moisture content of the bale to be determined.

Abstract: A moisture detection system for in-process nuclear fuel powder components includes a container within which the powder is located, a purge gas supply for providing a purge gas within the container, the purge gas contacting the powder and absorbing moisture therefrom, an off-gas line for transporting at least a portion of the purge gas after the purge gas contacts the powder, and a moisture detector for determining the moisture in the purge gas. The moisture content of the purge gas provides an indication of the moisture content of the powder. A process for detecting moisture of an in-process nuclear fuel powder component includes the steps of supplying a purge gas, contacting the powder with the purge gas, transporting at least a part of the purge gas through an off-gas line, and measuring the moisture of the purge gas in the off-gas line, the moisture measurement providing a measure of moisture in the powder.

Abstract: A powdery sample forming apparatus, which is used for measuring a water content of powder and in which all operations from powder supply to powder discharge are automated, includes a vertically elongated housing which has a sample inlet port at an upper portion thereof and a sample discharge port at a lower portion thereof. A porous plate or a screen plate divides the housing into longitudinal compartments and a gate opens and closes a bottom portion of one of the divided compartments. A vertically movable press member in the compartment having the gate presses the sample against the gate. A window is formed in a side wall of the compartment having the gate and can be cleaned with air under pressure or a vacuum.

Abstract: The moisture sensor comprises a block of absorbent material, such as wood. Two opposed faces are coated with conductive material, such as paint and two conductors of a cable are connected to the conductive material. The entire element is encapsulated within a sleeve of electrically insulating material, leaving one end face of the block of moisture absorbent material exposed. A plurality of apertures or perforations are provided in the sleeve exposing at least part of the moisture absorbent material. The sensor is adapted to be exposed to an environment to sense the moisture level of that environment.

Abstract: An apparatus assembly for monitoring the rehydration kinetics of dehydrated products has an enclosure formed by a cage for holding the products and by a cover for the cage surmounted by a hollowed rod. In use, the enclosure is connected via the rod with the pan of a balance so that it is suspended over the balance pan. The lattice-work of the side portion of the cage is configured so that when the cage is immersed in water, the lattice-work allows water to pass therethrough but prevents air from escaping from the cage through the lattice-work.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for determining the wicking characteristics of a web, particularly a paperboard web with respect to a liquid. The apparatus comprises a web holder having an upper section, a lower section, an upper web seal attached to the upper section for sealing against a first surface of the web, a lower web seal attached to the lower section for sealing against a second surface of the web, and means for connecting the upper and lower sections together with the web disposed therebetween so the upper and lower seals sealingly engage the respective first and second surfaces of the web between the seals.

Abstract: A medical specimen collection system includes a blood specimen collection subsystem including a blood specimen card. The blood specimen card comprises a blotter-type absorbent material with locations for receiving blood droplets. A humidity-indicating pouch comprising, for example, a cobalt chloride composition applied to blotter-type absorbent substrate is mounted on the blood specimen card in fluidic communication therewith. The humidity-indicating patch changes color in response to changing moisture levels. The blood specimen card must have less than a predetermined moisture content for processing of the samples thereon. The system can comprise a prepackaged kit which also includes a urine specimen collection subsystem and a labeling/mailing subsystem with adhesive labels and a mailing envelope.

Abstract: A system for analyzing the moisture content of bulk cotton or other non-homogeneous flowable solid substrates comprising: an electrical sensor consisting of multiple electrically independent measuring electrodes, each of which independently measures the moisture content of different portions of the sample; a means of pressing the mass against the surface of the sensor to form a face of uniform substrate density on that part of the mass which is pressed against the sensor; means for analyzing such face for moisture content; and a means for releasing the pressure on the halted mass to allow it to resume movement.

Abstract: A dry sorting machine having a separating function for removing solids of more than a predetermined size from ash and a drying function for drying the ash, and a magnetic sorting machine for removing metals from the dried ash are arranged in a pretreatment route for the ash to be supplied to the furnace. Further, there is provided a drying air pipe for introducing the high-temperature air heat-recovered from exhaust gases discharged from the ash melting furnace into the dry sorting machine. Thus, by the dry sorting machine having the separating and drying functions, simplification of the ash pretreatment process and reduction of the installation space can be achieved.

Abstract: A grain measuring and weighing device including an entrance chamber, a constant volume chamber, and a weigh chamber. A plurality of gates controllably move between open and closed positions to allow a known volume of grain to flow between chambers. The weighing and measuring system includes a means for compensating and eliminating forces external to the grain harvester, such as the various forces due to sloping surfaces and rough terrain over which the grain harvester moves, that would otherwise adversely affect the grain yield data. In one embodiment, an accelerometer is use to measure such external forces. In another embodiment, a reference weight is used to measure the external forces.

Abstract: A process for preparing an aqueous surfactant composition comprising blending defined ingredients, heating and/or mixing, removing a sample to be sampled by a device containing an NMR, determining moisture level and releasing for further processing.

Abstract: An improved soil moisture sensor and circuity are described which permit a more compact, simplified, and less expensive integrated unit wherein the essential circuitry of the device is sealed within the sensor head. Determinations of resistance and capacitance are made using a coaxial or other capacitor having spikes or probes which are inserted into the soil or other material.

Abstract: A method and system for processing cheese. The method comprises the steps of blending ground cheese with additional ingredients to form a blended cheese material, and cooking and then cooling that cheese material. The method further comprises the steps of measuring a moisture content of the blended cheese material, generating a signal representing that moisture content, and adjusting the moisture content of the blended cheese material to a preset level in response to the generated signal. The moisture content of the cheese product may be measured at any appropriate stage of the processing line. Preferably, the moisture content of the cheese material is measured by transmitting microwave signals across the cheese material, and measuring the phase shift in the transmitted microwave signals. Also, preferably, the moisture content of the cheese material is measured, and any necessary adjustments made, after that material has been cooked and cooled.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for detecting traces of hydrocarbon-containing pollutants present in an aqueous medium, comprising an electric circuit including at least one sensitive element reacting through degradation to the presence of said pollutants, electric means co-operating with said sensitive element and a means for checking the condition of said circuit.According to the invention, said electric means include at least two contactors holding said sensitive element in compression.FIG. 1 to be published.

Abstract: An optical fiber water sensor includes a mandrel having a convex or concave shape adjacent to an optical fiber which is adjacent to a water swellable material held in a reservoir. Upon coming in contact with water, the material swells and deforms a section of the optical fiber about a contour defined by the mandrel thus attenuating a signal propagating through the fiber which is detected by an optical detector to indicate the presence of water.

Abstract: A moisture detection system for in-process nuclear fuel powder components includes a container within which the powder is located, a purge gas supply for providing a purge gas within the container, the purge gas contacting the powder and absorbing moisture therefrom, an off-gas line for transporting at least a portion of the purge gas after the purge gas contacts the powder and a moisture detector for determining the moisture in the purge gas. The moisture content of the purge gas provides an indication of the moisture content of the powder. A process for detecting moisture of an in-process nuclear fuel powder component includes the steps of supplying a purge gas, contacting the powder with the purge gas, transporting at least a part of the purge gas through an off-gas line, and measuring the moisture of the purge gas in the off-gas line, the moisture measurement providing a measure of moisture in the powder.

Abstract: A self-clearing material sensing apparatus is provided for sensing a physical parameter of a particulate material flowing through a conduit. The self-clearing material sensing apparatus includes a sensor device and funnel for directing a consistent flow of the particulate material to an area proximate the sensor device. The funnel has a read configuration and a clearance configuration and includes an upper inlet and a lower outlet including a narrowing below the upper inlet when the funnel is in the read configuration. The narrowing is adjustable for increasing the cross-sectional area of the narrowing when the funnel is changed from the read configuration to the clearance configuration. An actuation mechanism is provided for changing the funnel from the read configuration to the clearance configuration, and from the clearance configuration back to the read configuration, to periodically release any material clogged within the funnel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the capillary attraction developed at a surface of an absorbent body intended to be used in a sanitary article such as a sanitary napkin, a diaper, a urinary pad, an adult brief, a tampon or a wound dressing, among others. The apparatus comprises a probe of fritted glass providing an array of capillary passageways in fluid communication with the interior of a closed cell completely filled with liquid. A pressure sensor mounted to the closed cell observes the liquid pressure therein. When the probe is placed in contact with the absorbent body, the capillary attraction exerted on liquid in the probe capillaries by the porous network of the absorbent body is transmitted through the liquid medium in the cell to the pressure sensor. The pressure data thus obtained reflects the state of dryness of the absorbent body surface. The capillary attraction measurement is made with no appreciable transfer of liquid toward the absorbent body to avoid altering its condition.

Abstract: The invention provides a monitor for monitoring the condition of fibre optic communication cables. The system employs one or more of the optical fibres of a cable to monitor the cable structure for damage or kinks. By using two separate laser sources and simultaneously monitoring the optical losses at two distinct and separate wavelengths, the loss signature of the monitored fibre is determined, analyzed and related to the mechanical condition of the cable structure. To monitor splice points for moisture, a special optical splice sensor unit detects any penetration of water into the splice and transmits a coded alarm signal over the monitored fibre to the optical receiver. Every splice location is assigned a unique sensor code. The optical splice sensor is driven by moisture detection cell, which forms a single cell water activated battery. Water entering the monitored splice closure wets the tape, which activates the cell.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring an amount of gas adsorbed on or desorbed from a solid and for analyzing and surveying reactions of a gas with a solid. Governing parameters include pressure, temperature and gas flow rate. The apparatus and method provide accurate measurement utilizing temperature programmed characterization and the volumetric method. The method is useful at both very high and very low pressures.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the moisture content of soil uses a timing capacitor. The capacitor has several conductive elements adapted for insertion into soil to sense the hydration state capacitance of the soil. A capacitance-to-frequency converter electrically connected to the capacitor has an oscillator circuit. The frequency of the oscillator circuit has a frequency dependent upon the value of the capacitor and independent of the electrical losses in the capacitor. A data logger measures the frequency generated by the capacitance-to-frequency converter, the frequency bearing a known relationship to the dielectric constant and, hence, the water content of the soil. The conductive elements are surrounded by shields of electrical potential substantially equal to that of the timing capacitor.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for the determination of moisture content of a sample carried on a conveyor belt. Microwave signals at a number of discrete frequencies within a range are transmitted through the sample and the phase shift of the received signals is averaged and combined with measurement of attenuation or mass per unit area to provide a measure of moisture content of the sample. The invention is applicable to measurement of moisture content of crushed coking and steaming coals.

Abstract: A device for providing a signal emulating the wetness of plant leaves, includes a first generally horizontal surface; a second, generally upwardly facing sloped surface having an edge spaced above the first surface by a gap, so that drops of moisture can accumulate on the second surface, and run off the edge, bridging the gap, and first and second leads extending from the first and second surfaces, respectively, to measure the conductivity/resistivity across the gap. Also disclosed is a method of providing a signal emulating the wetness of plant leaves including the steps of: providing a first generally horizontal surface; providing a second, generally upwardly facing sloped surface having an edge spaced above the first surface by a gap, so that drops of moisture can accumulate on the second surface, and run off the edge, bridging the gap between the first and second surfaces; and measuring the conductivity/resistivity across the gap between the first and second surfaces.

Abstract: A conveyor-belt moisture control sensor apparatus (10) includes a sensor device (12) having an electrically-insulative block (30) with two adjacent electrodes (32, 34) extending therefrom to contact a top surface (22) of a return portion (24) of a conveyor belt (26). Two wires (36, 38) are mounted on the electrically-insulative block and connected to connection ends of the electrodes at encapsulated points in the electrically-insulative block. A hinge mechanism (40) mounts the electrically-insulative block to a conveyor-belt support frame (44) for allowing the electrically-insulative block to rotate, thereby bringing the electrodes into contact with the conveyor belt. A drip guard (98) extends from the electrically-insulative block above the electrodes.

Abstract: A device for measuring and/or controlling ground water levels and a method of manufacturing such device. An embodiment of the device comprises a first tubular member having a top and bottom end and a plurality of perforations for allowing liquid, such as water, to enter and exit the device. A float dimensioned to be slidably received within the first tubular member is provided. The float has a top and bottom opening, both being in flow communication with each other. The device also comprises a check valve located inside the first tubular member for selectively passing liquid through the bottom opening of the float. Further, the device includes a second tubular member located inside the first tubular member. The second tubular member is in flow communication with the top opening of the float and extends upwardly through and out of the top opening of the first tubular member.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for measuring ultrasonic velocities in materials are disclosed which, in one embodiment, include such methods and apparatuses for triaxial tests of low permeability rock samples, the apparatus including top and bottom end caps for mounting to a sample to be tested, each end cap having an ultrasonic transducer mounted therein for disposition in contact with the material to be tested for measuring the velocities of ultrasonic waves through the material. In another embodiment, at least one end cap having channels and a sensor for sensing changes in sample pore pressure is disclosed. In another aspect, a pressure generator or microaccumulator for changing the amount of a pore pressure fluid in the channels, thereby changing sample water content and making possible an efficient multistage test is disclosed. In another embodiment an end cap for such measurements is disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a moisture meter tester for granular or powdered products including a cell for the product to be analyzed and a means of indirect measurement of the moisture connected to a unit for processing the measurements, the cell being adapted to be filled with and successively emptied of the product. The moisture meter of the invention is notable in that a hygrometric sensor is arranged so as to be capable of being in contact with the air surrounding the product to be analyzed, and that the sensor is connected to the measurement processing unit in order to make corrections to the values for the apparent moisture measured by the indirect measurement means. The invention also relates to a method using such a moisture tester.

Abstract: A novel method for determining a coefficient of moisture expansion of a single, identified workpiece or coupon. The method includes the steps of positioning the workpiece in a chamber having known environmental parameters; determining a workpiece length change .DELTA.L caused by a chamber induced change in the workpiece moisture content .DELTA.M, by positioning first and second transformers to opposite ends of the single workpiece; and, measuring a chamber induced change in the workpiece moisture content .DELTA.M, by weighing the workpiece.

Abstract: An assembly for determining a coefficient of moisture expansion of a single, identified workpiece or coupon. The assembly includes means for positioning the workpiece in a chamber having known environmental parameters; means for determining a workpiece length change, .DELTA.L caused by a chamber induced change in the workpiece's moisture content .DELTA.M; and, means for measuring a chamber-induced change in the workpiece's moisture content .DELTA.M.

Abstract: The apparatus of the invention has two heads each of which has three sensors for measuring the propagation speed of ultrasonic waves, the degree of moisture, and the temperature in a test material, in conjunction with a module having a microprocessor and memories. The microprocessor calculates the measured propagation speed of the ultrasonic waves. This speed is normed with respect to a set temperature (e.g., 20.degree. C.) and a set value (e.g., 15%) of the degree of moisture. From these measurements, the microprocessor searches for the class of standardized mechanical properties in which the material falls. The microprocessor finds the class in which the value of the normed propagation speed falls in a table of values contained in one of the memories. The apparatus thereby enables the determination of the class of the material automatically and non-destructively.

Abstract: The device for determining the quantity of water required by a cultivation medium placed in a tray (100), comprises a vertically disposed measuring wheel (10) mounted on a vertical partition (106) in such a manner as to be free to rotate about a horizontal axis (19), while being unbalanced. The bottom portion of the measuring wheel (10) is situated a few millimeters from the bottom of the tank of the tray. The measuring wheel comprises a first portion (14) which is not very hydrophilic and which has a mean relative density of less than unity, and a second portion provided with hydrophilic means (13) that cause the unbalance of the wheel to vary as a function of the quantity of water retained in the hydrophilic means (13). The measuring device includes display means (15) for displaying the angular position of the measuring wheel (10), thereby providing an indication of the watering requirements of the medium.

Abstract: A soil moisture sensor to be implanted in soil. The sensor has a conductive metal housing, perforated to pass moisture to and through a filter liner which lines an internal cavity. A transfer matrix is confined in the liner and is abutted by a buffer tablet of compacted gypsum. An electrode matrix abuts the tablet and bridges a pair of spaced-apart electrodes. Water, or absence of water, in the electrode matrix provides a measure of moisture in the soil as a function of electrical conductivity between the electrodes.

Abstract: A method of and an apparatus for accurately measuring the moisture content of a moving bed of a product, such as strip tobacco, are disclosed. As the bed of tobacco is conveyed by a perforated or porous conveyor, a flow of air is directed upwardly through the conveyor and into the bed of tobacco. The air flow agitates and homogenizes the tobacco to provide a localized area of the bed of tobacco that has a substantially uniform moisture content from top to bottom. A moisture sensor located downstream of the air flow measures the moisture content of the agitated portion of the tobacco bed.

Abstract: A specific heat based moisture sensor comprises: a cylindrical member formed with two parallel axially-extending hollow portions; a heater provided on an outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member; a temperature sensor formed by leads passed through the two hollow portions of the cylindrical member; and a waterproof synthetic resin formed so as to cover said cylindrical member and the heater. Since the difference in distance between the heater and the temperature sensor lead is determined precisely, the sensing reliability can be improved. Since the ceramic cylindrical member is used, temperature sensitivity can be improved. Since the sensor is covered with a waterproof resin, it is possible to prevent metallic ions from entering the substance to be sensed, without increasing the size and cost of the moisture sensor.

Abstract: A new method for determination of the dew-point of a humid gas by means of a light beam reflected by a dew-point mirror. During measurements of dew-points, particularly in the range between -50.degree. C. to -95.degree. C., excess moisture is added to the humid gas under measurement in the manifold. Thus the dew-point mirror is for a short period of time, impacted with a humid gas of higher water content. This results in a fast build-up of a layer of dew on the mirror. In the subsequent process of dew-point determination, this reduces the time of measurement significantly. For carrying out the method, a dew-point measuring device is described, which comprises a manifold with a by-pass circuit having a gas valve, an injector unit and a humidification unit. Particularly useful in the device is a humidification unit made of hygroscopic polyamide tube which ensures maintenance-free humidification of the gas by the water molecules diffusing into this tube from the ambient atmosphere.

Abstract: Method and composition for retarding bloom development thereby extending shelf life of fresh cut flowers (16) by "blanketing" and "feeding" techniques. Fresh cut flowers, typified by roses are refrigerated and provided a blanketing confinement within a close environment of an essence of aromatic flower (such as lavender or rose) by the presence of essential flower oils or real aromatic flowers. The essence is, effectively, a vapor blanket. Cut stemmed (10) flowers are initially transported, stored or displayed in a container (18') of fresh water (19), in which a light or expanded magnesium carbonate sediment layer (21) provides cut flower end (14') envelopment for bacterial filtration, oxygen buffering and sufficient water-borne nutritional intake with or without the adjunct blanketing. Additionally, freshness is made determinable by a simple testing process which will anticipate the value of applying or reapplying the carbonate treatment technique.

Abstract: A chemically and physically stable humidity sensor including a porous sintered body and electrodes, which is formed by bringing a humidity sensor including a porous sintered body and electrodes into contact with a solution of a polyurethane resin.

Abstract: Apparatus for testing shelled corn in a combine storage tank during harvesting includes a plurality of charged electrodes each in the form of an elongated rod arranged in a spaced manner and positioned in a lower portion of the combine storage tank to be completely encompassed by the shelled corn. The electrodes are coupled to a moisture meter located in the combine cab allowing the operator to determine the moisture content of the corn crop at harvest. The moisture meter is easily disconnected from the electrodes and removed from the combine to permit moisture testing of corn kernels while still on the cob prior to harvest.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to devices for detecting the moisture content of material such as a diaper using a change in bulk dielectric constant. More particularly, the invention relates to a moisture sensing device which provides an accurate indication of the moisture content of a material such as a diaper when merely placed in the vicinity of the diaper. In a preferred embodiment, the device is a hand-held device which can be readily transported and which can detect diaper moisture without piercing the diaper or attaching electrodes directly to the diaper.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements in tensiometers for measuring soil water tension comprising a rod shaped wick. the rod shaped wick is shoestring, rolled paper towel, rolled glass microfiber filter, or solid ceramic. The rod shaped wick is secured to the tensiometer by a cone washer and a threaded fitting.

Abstract: A floating vessel which can move about a sand pit mounts apparatus for garing granular material at the bottom of the sand pit, for processing the granular material into a mixture of a desired granular composition, and for delivery to a barge which can transport the granular material mixture to an ultimate user.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for rapidly determining the print quality of a porous material which includes contacting a porous surface with a source of ink, providing a known relative acceleration between said ink source and said porous surface, and thereby transferring a predetermined volume of ink from said ink source to a known area of said porous suface. Then, the amount of ink transferred into the porous surface area per unit of time is measured to thereby determine the time between initial ink contact and the initial ink penetration, referred to as wetting delay, and the penetration rate of ink into the porous surface.

Abstract: The apparatus and method of the present invention provide means by which non-warped corrugated paperboard sheet may easily and consistently be produced. The cross-directional moisture content profiles of the top and bottom liners of the corrugated sheet are automatically monitored, and controlled with independently operable water jets such that the liners have approximately equal machine and cross-direction moisture content profiles. The moisture content profiles of the liners are controlled to equalize the machine direction and cross-directional stresses created within the liners as they dry out, thereby producing non-warped corrugated paperboard sheet.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining water content of powder/granule sample including a rectangular waveguide system substantially set up in the upright or vertical disposition, consisting of a microwave transmitting converter, a microwave waveguide, and a microwave receiving converter; the apparatus comprising: a sample container for containing powder or granular sample and being accommodated inside of the microwave waveguide; the waveguide being provided with an inlet hole communicated to the inner space of the cavity resonator at one of side walls, and having a door for opening and closing the hole and a supporting element for the sample container within the waveguide; a buffer weighing system for supporting the hollow waveguide on a supporting table in the upright or vertical disposition and generates electric signals designating the supporting weight; and signal processing means for receiving signal output from the microwave receiving converter and the other signal from said buffer weighing system, storing and a

Abstract: A moisture sensor to sense rain on a windshield includes sensor members and leads on the outboard surface of the windshield. The members and leads are uncoated and directly exposed to any moisture accumulation on the sensor. Leads connect the sensor to a controller which includes a signal generator and sensor monitor. The relative spacing between the leads as compared to the spacing between the sensor members is such that the impedance of the sensor when the leads are electrically interconnected by moisture is measurably different from the sensor impedance when said members or said members and leads are electrically interconnected. In response to the latter signal, the windshield wipers are actuated.

Abstract: A brake fluid tester for measuring the quality of brake fluid, comprising means for measuring the conductivity of the brake fluid, preferably comprising a plurality of comparators for comparing the resistance of the brake fluid to a plurality of reference, resistances. The device further comprises indicating means, preferably light emitting diodes, responsive to the measuring means for indicating the quality of the brake fluid based upon its measured conductivity. An increasing number of diodes are illuminated as the conductivity of the brake fluid increases, providing a positive indication when the device is working and providing an easy to interpret display of the test results. The diodes are preferably activated at preselected levels of conductivity, corresponding to preselected levels of moisture contamination.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the moisture in materials is provided. The apparatus allows the accurate determination of moisture in a sample as small as 1 mg with a sensitivity of less than 1 microgram of moisture. The apparatus includes a vacuum chamber which can be cooled to below -150.degree. C. or heated to about 100.degree. C. The vacuum chamber is connected in series with a moisture trap which can be cooled to below -150.degree. C. The moisture trap is connected in series with a combination of mechanical and diffusion vacuum pumps capable of reducing the pressure in the apparatus to below 1.times.10.sup.-5 Torr. A sample is placed in the vacuum chamber, cooled to below -150.degree. C., the apparatus is evacuated to a pressure of below 1.times.10.sup.-5 Torr by the vacuum pumps. Thereafter, the moisture trap is cooled to below -150.degree. C. while the sample is heated to about 100.degree. C. to transfer moisture from the sample to the trap.

Abstract: A dual frequency microwave water cut monitor includes a microwave source which provides microwave energies at two different frequencies to a circulator which in turn provides the microwave energies to an antenna. The antenna provides the microwave energies to a petroleum stream and also receives reflected microwave energy back from the stream. The reflected microwave energy is provided by the antenna to the circulator which in turn provides the reflected microwave energies as test microwave energies. A detector assembly connected to the circulator detects the intensities of the test microwave energies and provides a corresponding intensity signal. Indicator apparatus connected to the circulator to the microwave source and to the detector assembly provides an indication of the water cut of the petroleum stream in accordance with the intensity signal and the phase difference between one of the source provided microwave energies and its corresponding test microwave energy.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for automatically detecting the approximate percentage of humidity in predetermined types of lumber cut to specific lengths. A conveyor is provided for conveying individual pieces of cut lumber to a weighing station which consists of platforms on which individual pieces of lumber are conveyed. One or more weighing cells are associated with the platforms for detecting the weight of the piece of lumber thereon. A control circuit is connected to the weighing cell and also to sensors which detect a predetermined length of the lumber pieces and the cross-sectional dimension thereof, and receives information signals therefrom to identify and classify the individual lumber pieces in accordance with one or more reference signals related to selected humidity content weight(s) of the lumber pieces. The apparatus compares the apparent density with selectable density(ies) used as criterium for sorting.