Development of a Multi-Frequency Dielectric Sensing System for Real-Time Forage Moisture Measurement

Abstract

<p>A previous study at Iowa State University has shown promise for the determination of hay and forage moisture content prior to compaction using multi-frequency dielectric measurements. This previous study used a sensing system that took sequential frequency measurements which takes considerable time. Due to the fast material flow through equipment, the measurements need to be taken in a very short time period. Taking multi-frequency dielectric measurements “simultaneously” will ensure all frequencies measurements are from the same sample mass.<br /><br />This paper will report on the development of the sensing hardware for “simultaneous” multi-frequency dielectric measurements and the evaluation of the system under static test conditions. Ideally, the measurement system will be capable of predicting the moisture content independent of density, material volume, and material composition.</p>