Microwave Bale Moisture Measurements; History and Update

Moisture sensing of cotton bales has a rich history ranging from early 1950’s, resistance based sensors, to modern microwave based sensors and moisture imaging systems.  Discussion covers the USDA-ARS Cotton Production and Processing Unit's, Lubbock TX, research progress from early designs and developments leading up to and including their latest research into the development of a microwave bale moisture imaging system.  Notable topics include; sensing in presence of metal bale-ties, recent rise of cell phone use in gins and their interference with microwave sensors and interference mitigation techniques as well as future plans and directions for future research needs.