Microwave moisture analyzer: apparatus and method

The invention includes a toploading weighing instrumentality which determines loss on drying by a cylindrical microwave. The cylindrical cavity of the microwave includes a power supply, a magnetron, a power module operatively coupled between the power supply and the magnetron for driving the magnetron, a wave guide communicating with the magnetron and with a microwave containment chamber for delivering energy, and at least one microwave energy sensor for sensing microwave energy or magnetic and/or electric field strengths within the chamber for controlling, inter alia, the loss on drying process of the sample being assayed and determining when the drying process is complete. A precision electronic balance is operatively disposed within the microwave chamber for allowing a specimen being assayed to be weighed. In addition, a ventilation chamber is provided for venting moisture from the microwave chamber. A processing unit provides for data acquisition, processing and storage.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The instant invention relates generally to a moisture analyzer and, in particular, to a microwave moisture analyzer for loss on drying applications.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A multiplicity of devices and analytical methods have been developed in an attempt to obtain fast and accurate quantitative analysis of a vast array of products which are manufactured subject to strict control of moisture. For example, certain products have a specific range of moisture which dictates the taste and/or texture of the product. Thus, once the consumer associates a specific taste and/or texture to the product the uniformity of that taste and/or texture becomes a hallmark to the product's long term acceptance and ultimate success. Furthermore, moisture content is a specific process control in food processing, waste water treatment and materials processing.

Typically, these products require the volatilization of moisture or the like from the substance for moisture determination. In recent years, conventional microwave heating has been employed in the methods to remove various volatiles such as moisture followed by calculations of the amount of moisture lost. Conventional microwave heating requires the use of high power levels for providing effective drying due to the conventional microwave oven's employing random direction Tewaves as the dominant energy field for the drying process. As a result, these microwave ovens produce hot and cold spots, over heating edges and charring of the products being analyzed. In addition, these conventional microwave ovens failed to provide a satisfactory solution which provided fast and accurate moisture determination of the product without the degradation of the product due to these problems.

Thus, there continues to be a need for an efficient microwave moisture analyzer which offers uniformity of microwave heating and rapid moisture determining analysis without the degradation of the product due to these problems. This is particularly important in light of the fact that most of the testing of products is related to process control in some form or another. Thus, the speed of the analysis and tests are hallmarks of high quality mass production. In addition, there is a need for a microwave moisture analyzer which provides timely feedback for maintaining tight tolerances of both the process and product produced thereby. Furthermore, a microwave moisture analyzer is needed which includes automated functions which simplify routine analysis thereby substantially eliminating the dependency of the result of the analysis on the skill and care exercised by the operator.

In addition, scales have been employed within these conventional microwave ovens to measure the weight of the product being analyzed. However, these devices have heretofore been susceptible to jarring and vibration in the working environment which resulted in anomalous weight readings. Such inconsistencies in operation result in unpredictable and unreliable moisture determination of the product.

Furthermore, none of the prior art which applicant is aware addresses the problem of continuing to dry the product after all of the moisture has been exhausted therefrom. This of course alters the mass which introduces an error in the final moisture calculation. Moreover, none of the prior art which applicant is aware addresses the possibility of a sample igniting in the chamber while doing a loss on drying process. Although the possibility of a sample igniting in the chamber while doing a loss on drying process is low, it does exist.

Therefore, not only does there continue to be a need for an efficient microwave moisture analyzer which offers uniformity of microwave heating and timely feedback for maintaining tight tolerances of the drying process, there also continues to be a need for a microwave moisture analyzer which is impervious to vibration and jarring and which addresses the problem of over drying the product and the possibility of the product igniting in the analyzer.

The following prior art reflects the state of the art of which applicant is aware and is included herewith to discharge applicant's acknowledged duty to disclose relevant prior art. It is stipulated, however, that none of these references teach singly nor render obvious when considered in any conceivable combination the nexus of the instant invention as disclosed in greater detail hereinafter and as particularly claimed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The instant invention is distinguished over the known prior art in a multiplicity of ways. For one thing, the instant invention provides a microwave moisture analyzer for loss on drying applications which provides fast and accurate quantitative analysis of a vast array of products which are manufactured subject to strict control of moisture. The instant invention also provides fast and uniform drying of product samples for real-time process control without degradation of the samples due to charring. In addition, the instant invention provides microwave energy means for providing real time feedback during the drying process of the sample thus, inter alia, maintaining tight tolerances of the drying process. Furthermore, the instant invention provides a microwave moisture analyzer which is impervious to vibration and jarring in the working environment thereby eliminating anomalous weight readings which result in unpredictable and unreliable moisture determination of the sample. Moreover, the instant invention solves the problem of over drying the product and the possibility of the product igniting in the analyzer. The instant invention also includes automated functions which simplify routine analysis thereby substantially eliminating the dependency of the result of the analysis of the skill and care exercised by the operator.

In a preferred form, the microwave moisture analyzer of the instant invention includes, a power supply, a magnetron, a power module operatively coupled between said power supply and said magnetron for driving said magnetron, a wave guide communicating with the magnetron and with a microwave containment chamber for delivering energy thereto, at least one microwave energy sensor for sensing microwave energy or magnetic and/or electric field strengths within the chamber for controlling, inter alia, the loss on drying process of the sample being assayed and determining when the drying process is complete. A precision electronic balance is operatively disposed within the microwave chamber for allowing a specimen being assayed to be weighed. In addition, a ventilation chamber is provided for venting moisture from the microwave chamber. A processing unit and associated memory allows means for data acquisition, processing and storage of data from the power module driving the magnetron, the microwave energy sensor(s) for sensing magnetic and/or electric fields and the electronic balance for weighing the initial and final weights of the specimen for loss on drying moisture analysis, both signaling the removal of microwave energy in the chamber.

In addition, the microwave moisture analyzer of the instant invention includes a sample rotation module which rotates the sample during the drying process. Furthermore, a smoke/gas detector module and a flash detector module can be operatively disposed within the analysis chamber260. The smoke/gas detector module provides means indicating endpoint runover. The flash detector module provides means for providing a warning if a sample begins to ignite within the analysis chamber.

The microwave containment chamber is partitioned into a lower chamber and an upper chamber wherein the upper chamber is pivotally coupled to said lower chamber such that said upper chamber can move from a closed substantially horizontal position to an opened upright positioned for toploading of a specimen faster. The upper and lower chamber when in a closed position define a internal cavity having a base, cylindrical sidewalls extending from said base and operatively coupled thereto and a perforated top wall wherein moisture can be aspirated therethrough without allowing microwave leakage. The base of the cylindrical chamber includes a pair of portals disposed approximately ninety degrees apart such that the energy delivered from the magnetron can be guided to the portals via a bifurcated wave guide for delivering energy within the cylindrical cavity of the microwave containment chamber. At least one microwave energy sensor is disposed in operative communication with the microwave containment chamber for sensing microwave energy therein for controlling the drying process and determining when a drying cycle is complete.

In addition, a pair of tuning rods are disposed within the interior of the containment chamber at a location above the portals. The tuning rods are used to set-up the microwave mode entering the chamber into a resonance condition. Specifically, the tuning rods set-up two resonances such that they interact with one another to create a magnetic stirring without the use of a mechanical stirrer. Preferably, the tuning rods traverse a median of the portals.

Furthermore, an attenuator is provided within one of the two bifurcated members of the waveguide communicating energy between the magnetron and the microwave chamber. The tuning stub is used to attenuate a third mode of energy within a wave guide to increase the efficiency of the dual mode wave guide field creating a cylindrical stirring effect.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, a primary object of the instant invention is to provide a new, novel and useful microwave moisture analyzer apparatus and method for loss on drying applications.

A further object of the instant invention is to provide a self contained, programmable moisture analyzer apparatus with microwave radiation and automatic determination of weight loss, suitable for non-flammable and non-toxic samples.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above in which samples are heated using microwave energy to liberate moisture or other volatiles while sensing microwave energy until endpoint conditions are met.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which employs microwave energy sensor means for controlling the drying process and determining that a drying cycle is complete.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which employs microwave energy sensor means for sensing magnetic and/or electric fields.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which employs the microwave energy sensor means to detect an increase in unabsorbed energy by a load.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which employs the microwave energy sensor means for controlling the microwave power shut off.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which employs a sample rotation module which rotates the sample during the drying process.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which employs a smoke/gas detector module for providing means indicating endpoint runover.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which employs a flash detector module for providing a warning if a sample begins to ignite within the analysis chamber.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which uses a high percentage of Tmwaves for allowing a lower power usage relative to conventional microwaves.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which includes a tuned wave guide and a tuned cylindrical induction microwave chamber.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which substantially reduces drying time compared with known methodologies.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which substantially reduces drying time without degradation of samples due to, inter alia, a reduced cavity size (e.g. 10% of a conventional oven cavity) of a micro wave containment chamber thereby resulting in a favorable filling factor, i.e., the sample size divided by the cavity volume.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which is fast, accurate and easy to use.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which automatically calculates loss on drying moisture determination and documents the analysis on, inter alia, an internal printer and a video graphics array (VGA) display for providing good lab practice (GLP) and ISO support.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which allows setup by merely selecting an appropriate routine from a menu-driven software displayed on a backlit LCD display.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which allows the user to enter drying parameters by entering them through a keypad either by touching a corresponding number or entering the exact value with numeric keys.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which provides a development screen which conveniently illustrates the drying parameters including units, a plurality of temperatures and end-point selection for defining drying procedures.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which allows the drying procedures to be stored in the memory for later recall via meaningful alphanumeric program names.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which allows one key actuation of a drying procedure which has been established and recalled from memory with meaningful alphanumeric program names.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which provides easy operator ergonomics and cleaning via top entry of samples.

Another further object of the instant invention is to provide the apparatus and method as characterized above which provides meaningful recall from memory/data acquisition and graphical/plotting displays.

Viewed from a first vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a loss on drying apparatus, comprising in combination: a microwave chamber; a microwave energy source operatively coupled to the chamber for delivering microwave energy thereto for drying a sample therein; a microwave energy sensor operatively disposed within the microwave chamber.

Viewed from a second vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for loss on drying, the step including: placing a specimen in a cylindrical microwave; monitoring the microwave energy within the cylindrical microwave while powering the microwave to dry the specimen; venting moisture from the microwave during a drying process.

Viewed from a third vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a microwave moisture analyzer, comprising in combination: a cylindrical microwave containment chamber; the cylindrical microwave containment chamber including a pair of portals disposed therein; a microwave energy source; a wave guide operatively coupled between the microwave energy source and the portals for delivering microwave energy to the chamber; means for supporting a sample within the chamber; means for sensing microwave energy for controlling the amount of microwave energy delivered to the chamber as a function of the sample being analyzed.

Viewed from a forth vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for loss on drying, the steps including: placing a specimen in a cylindrical microwave; delivering microwave energy to the cylindrical microwave; monitoring the microwave energy within the cylindrical microwave; controlling a drying process of the specimen as a function of the monitored microwave energy.

Viewed from a fifth vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for loss on drying, the steps including: placing a sample in a chamber; weighing the sample to obtain an initial weight thereof; applying microwave energy to a chamber containing the sample; sensing the microwave energy within the chamber for controlling a drying process of the sample to a endpoint by modifying the amount of applied microwave energy; reweighing the sample at an end of the drying process to obtain a final weight thereof.

Viewed from a sixth vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for loss on drying, the steps including: applying microwave energy to a sample having a known weight; monitoring the microwave energy; surceasing the applied microwave energy as a function of the monitored microwave energy.

Viewed from a seventh vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for loss on drying, the steps including: applying microwave energy to a sample having a known weight and contained with in a chamber; sensing the energy within the chamber and outputting a signal correlative to the sensed energy; comparing the outputted signal to a predetermined signal level; regulating the applied microwave energy as a function of the comparison step for drying the sample.

Viewed from a eighth vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for loss on drying, the steps including: establishing an algorithm correlative to a change in radiation as function of load absorbability; sensing radiation correlative to an absorbability of a load being radiated within a chamber; comparing the sensed radiation to the algorithm for determining a benchmark correlative to an endpoint condition.

Viewed from a ninth vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for loss on drying, the steps including: establishing a characteristic radiation curve of a sample type correlative of its radiation absorbability; radiating a specimen of the sample type; developing a specimen radiation curve by monitoring a change in radiation correlative to radiation absorbability of the specimen; comparing a transition of slope on the characteristic radiation curve with a transition of slope on the specimen radiation curve; continuing to radiate the specimen until a predetermined endpoint condition has been met based on the comparison step.

Viewed from a tenth vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for loss on drying, the steps including: establishing a benchmark correlative to a level of microwave energy sensed by a sensor; employing the sensor to monitor a level of microwave energy within a chamber wherein a sample is being radiated; comparing the monitored energy level with the benchmark level for controlling a drying process of the sample.

Viewed from a eleventh vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for loss on drying, the steps including: establishing a characteristic radiation curve of a sample type correlative of its radiation absorbability; radiating a sample contained within a chamber; comparing subsequently sensed levels of radiation within the chamber with the characteristic curve for determining an endpoint condition.

These and other objects will be made manifest when considering the following detailed specification when taken in conjunction with the appended drawing figures.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Considering the drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like parts throughout the various drawing figures, reference numeral10is directed to the microwave moisture analyzer apparatus according to the instant invention.

In its essence and referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, the apparatus10according to the instant invention includes an enclosure20which includes a lower housing22and an upper housing42. The lower housing22includes a planar bottom surface24having an outer periphery26with upwardly extending walls28,30,32,34integrally formed with the periphery, thereby defining an opened top box (please seeFIG. 5). The opened top box includes a plurality of partitioned areas which sequester different parts of the apparatus10into sectors. For example, one sector is an area where a the power supply120is located and includes a ventilation means including a fan152passing through one of the side walls30to preclude adverse thermal excursions. Similarly, a second sector is provided which circumscribes a magnetron170and is similarly equipped with ventilation by means of a fan176to prevent unwanted temperature build-up and extend the life of the magnetron. A third sector is where an integral precision electronic balance240and a sample rotation module540is housed which both communicate with the analysis chamber260. The wave guide200communicates with a base262of a analysis chamber260which includes first and second portals264,266and a centralized bore270in which a two piece weighing rod242passes therethrough. The two piece weighing rod242communicates with both the electronic balance240and the sample rotation module540. The wave guide200substantially divides in quadrature, 90 degrees offset branches204,206and portals264,266from the base plate262extend upwardly to provide radiation to the sample being assayed and subsequently manipulated for a loss on drying analysis. Each of the partitioned areas are independently accessible depending on requisite need, whether it be for maintenance or subsequent utilization in its intended working environment. The area above the balance240and where the microwave power is outputted includes a hinged and spring lift covered microwave analysis chamber260(please seeFIG. 8). The hinged cover or upper chamber300includes a vent means312(FIG. 11) associated therewith and circulatory means to remove moisture during a loss on drying analysis. The hinged cover300protects the user by a plurality of micro-switches which disable the magnetron170should the cover300be opened while the apparatus10is in operation or if the cover300is improperly closed.

In addition, and referring toFIGS. 1,6and11, the apparatus10includes a microwave energy module450operatively disposed within the analysis chamber260. The microwave energy module450controls, inter alia, the loss on drying process of the sample being assayed and determines when the drying process is complete by sensing magnetic and/or electric field strength, i.e., energy within the microwave analysis chamber260. One principal analogy of this sensing technique is that the module450will sense energy heretofore allocated to drying the sample wherein the sensed energy is correlative to the energy unabsorbed by the load.

Prior to the drying process sample is placed between two glass pads and disposed on a carriage250within the chamber260. The carriage communicates with the electronic balance and a sample rotation module540via the two piece weighing rod242. The sample is weighed prior to and after the drying process. During the drying process of the sample it is preferred that the carriage250is rotated by the sample rotation module540. Thus, the two piece weighing rod242serves a dual purpose: providing a support member for the sample to be weighed by the electronic balance and providing a rotatable member for the sample rotation module450to couple to for rotating the sample.

Furthermore, a smoke/gas detector module480and a flash detector module510can be operatively disposed within the analysis chamber260. The smoke/gas detector module480provides means for detecting a gas product in the form of, for example, carbon dioxide. Thus, the smoke/gas detector module480provides means for indicating endpoint runover. The flash detector module510provides means for measuring and/or detecting radiant energy particularly in the form of light. Thus, the flash detector module510provides us a warning if a sample begins to ignite within the analysis chamber260.

More specifically and referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, the upper housing42includes a top surface52and a circumscribing well58for receiving the analysis chamber260. The top surface52of the upper housing42includes a user access area54for allowing a user to have access to a display70, a plurality of soft keys72,74,76,78, direction keys80,82,84,86, an enter key88, a numeric keypad90and a start key100and a printer slot112for receiving printed output. This area is downwardly sloped so that the user may easily view the display70and operate the plurality of keys before, during and after assaying the sample. The keys are surface mounted to protect against spillage. The display70is viewed through a display window56disposed in the top surface52of the upper housing42. Preferably, there are four soft keys72,74,76,78which are disposed directly under the display70. In addition, the direction keys80,82,84and86are disposed through the top surface52of the upper housing42in a cruciform configuration. The enter key88is located to the right of the display70and below the directional keys. The numeric keypad90is disposed through the top surface52of the upper housing42at a location beneath both the display and the plurality of soft keys. The numeric keypad90includes ten numeric keys and a decimal and asterisk key94,96allocated in four rows of three keys each thereby defining a 4 by 3 matrix. Furthermore, an oversized start key100is located to the right of the 4 by 3 matrix of keys90.

The circumscribing well58of the upper housing42receives the analysis chamber260. The upper housing42includes an integrally formed horizontally disposed planar work surface62located at the front right hand corner of the upper housing42. The work surface62is formed at a lower elevation than the sloped user access area54and the upper chamber300of microwave analysis chamber260and can be employed as, inter alia, an area where a sample is placed between two quartz (glass) pads and/or plastic pans which are both microwave transparent. The work surface62transitions into a substantially planar vertically extending sidewall64and a front circular wall60of the circumscribing well58receiving the analysis chamber260. In addition, the upper housing42includes an outer periphery with downwardly extending side walls44,46,48,50. The downwardly extending side wall50that defines the right side of the upper housing42includes an opening covered by a first air grill66. In addition, the upper housing42is provided with a pair of spaced apart openings disposed in a back wall46for receiving a second and third air grill67,68which communicate with a fan152cooling the electronics and power supply and the fan176providing temperature stability of the magnetron170. The right side grill66allows air to enter through perforations disposed in side wall34and then into the magnetron sector, over the magnetron170and then out through the fan176disposed on the back wall30of the lower housing22and back into the environment for providing cooling of the magnetron170.

Referring toFIG. 3, an underside40of the upper housing42is shown. The underside of the upper housing42supports the display70, a digital board71and a display driver board73for driving the display70. A plurality of stand-offs75are used as known in the art to connect the display70, the digital board71and the driver board73in a parallel spaced apart relationship with respect to one another. In addition, the underside of the cover supports the printer110which is preferably a two hundred fifty six dot wide thermal graphics printer and a printer controller board111which are shown to be disposed above the display70.

Referring toFIG. 4, the electronic balance240is shown disposed in a right front sector of the apparatus10. The electronic balance240communicates with the base262of the analysis chamber260via a weighing rod242and the base262is directly coupled to the quadrature wave guide200. In addition, a plurality of fan covers36,38and an electronic cover40precludes access to the components therein when the upper housing42is removed from the lower housing22. Furthermore, a plurality of serial communication ports370,372are disposed in the back wall30of the lower housing22and interposed between the fans covers36,38.

Referring toFIG. 5, the lower housing22is shown with the upper housing42and covers36,38, and40removed therefrom thereby defining the open boxed structure. The power supply fan152is disposed on the back wall30of the first sector to provide ventilation for the components located therein. The first sector also includes a fuse block136for holding the fuses shown inFIGS. 20 and 21and a power or on/off switch138which are disposed in the back wall30of the lower housing22. In addition, the first sector includes a filament transformer142, a capacitor134, a back up capacitor140, a terminal block126, an anode transformer132, a resistor bar124, a filter130, an isolation transformer128, a power supply120and a power supply module or board122. Preferably, the power supply module122and the power supply120are connected to a side wall32of the lower housing22. Specifically, the left side wall32when viewed from the front of the apparatus10. The filament transformer142, capacitor140, back-up capacitor134, anode transformer132, filter130and isolation transformer128are spaced apart from the power board122and power supply120and interposed therebetween and coupled to bottom surface24along with the resistor bar124and terminal block126. Thus, the ventilation fan152receives air from a perforated opening154disposed in surface24towards the front of the sector and induces air to flow over the components and through the fan152into the environment without the heat removal being impeded by the components contained therein.

Referring toFIGS. 5 and 22, the second sector includes the integral electronic balance240which communicates with a carriage250holding the sample to be assayed by way of a weighing rod242. The weighing rod242extends through the centralized bore270of the base262of the analysis chamber260and is connected to a substantially horizontal lever arm244of the balance240. The lever arm244of the balance is operatively coupled to a vertically extending arm246which in turn is operatively coupled to a beam247connected to a coil248circumscribed by a winding249. Thus, weight disposed on the pan will cause motion along the arrow F which effects torque on a rod which displaces the coil248which is disposed in a field wherein the displacement on the coil248can be translated into a current or voltage correlative to the sample weight disposed on the pan. This type of electronic balance is known in the art as a toploading electronic balance. The balance240in combination with the top loading microwave chamber260allows a sample to be loaded into the camber260and onto the carriage coupled to the weighing rod242without damaging or breaking flexural bearings springs of the balance. In addition, balance is guarded against vibration and electrical noise effects of the magnetron.

The third sector of the lower housing22includes the magnetron fan176disposed in the back wall30of the lower housing22, the magnetron170, a thermal switch172and the quadrature wave guide200. Air enters through a perforated right side wall34of the lower housing22and flows over the magnetron170through the fan176and back into the environment via fan operation. The thermal switch172is coupled to the main power supply120to provide protection so that the magnetron is shut off if excessive temperatures are reached. The magnetron170couples to a side208of a base202of a substantially Y shaped wave guide200. The base202of the wave guide200bifurcates into the first wave guide channel204and the second wave guide channel206. The first and second wave guide channels204,206both communicate with the canoe shaped openings or portals264,266disposed in the base262of the analysis chamber260such that radiation is emitted therethrough.

Referring toFIG. 6, a system schematic is shown of the apparatus according to the instant invention. The system includes a central processing unit380operatively coupled to a read only memory (ROM)385, a random access memory (RAM)384and a serial controller386thereby allowing means for data acquisition, processing and storage. In addition, the serial controller386is operatively coupled to the serial ports376,378for allowing bi-directional communication between the central processor380and an external computer or peripheral. In addition, the central processor380is operatively coupled to keys381which include the soft keys72,74,76, and78, direction keys80,82,84and86, enter key88, numeric keypad90and start key100disposed on the top surface52of the upper housing42. In addition, the central processor380is operatively coupled to the display70and to the printer110for providing the display of information on the display70and a hard copy readout of information via the printer110. Furthermore, an electrically erasable read-only memory385is operatively coupled between a power control board122and the central processing unit380for providing, inter alia, preprogrammed LOD routines. Clock383provides the timing for memory385.

The central processing unit380receives data from the balance or weighing module240and the power control module or board122. The power control module122is operatively coupled to the system power supply120and is directly interrupted by at least one of the micro-switches360,362,364, and366located on the lower chamber280of the microwave containment chamber260. The power control board122is operatively coupled to an anode transformer132and the filament transformer142which are in turn connected to the magnetron170disposed on the wave guide200. In addition, the power control board is operatively coupled to the magnetron fan176for controlling the temperature of the environment in which the magnetron170is disposed. The details of the power control board, the filament transformer142, the anode transformer132and the magnetron170will be described infra.

The central processing unit380receives signals from the balance240which are indicative of the weighing of the sample being assayed within the microwave containment chamber260. Thus, the central processing unit380receives signals from both the power control module122and the balance240which are indicative of the power being supplied to the magnetron170and thus the microwave containment chamber260while assaying the sample and also the weight of the sample before and after assaying of the sample.

Referring toFIG. 7, a front plane view of the microwave containment chamber260is shown operatively coupled to both the weighing rod242of the balance240and the wave guide200interposed between the microwave containment chamber260and the magnetron170. The weighing rod242passes through a collar243prior to extending into the chamber260via the centralized bore270. The microwave containment chamber260is partitioned into the lower chamber280and the upper chamber300. The lower chamber280includes the base262having an outer peripheral annulus groove274(seeFIG. 4) coupling to a side wall282having an interior cylindrical side wall286(seeFIG. 14) vertically extending upwards to a lower sealing flange292. The upper chamber300has a complemental sealing flange308including a choke310which defines the partition between the upper and lower chambers300,280respectively. The upper sealing flange308transitions into a cylindrical wall302also having an interior cylindrical side wall306defining a partitioned cylindrical microwave cavity of the containment chamber260along with the lower interior cylindrical wall286. The upper cylindrical wall302transitions into a moisture evacuation compartment311via a perforated top312which is covered by a lid334. The upper chamber300is coupled to the lower chamber280via a latch means340which interacts with at least one micro-switch370which is directly coupled to the main power supply120delivering power to the magnetron170wherein the power supply120is inoperative when at least the one micro-switch370is in an opened positioned thereby disallowing false starts of the magnetron170.

Referring toFIGS. 8 and 9, a right plane view of the containment chamber is shown with the latch means340securing the upper chamber300to the lower chamber280. The latch is comprised of a stationary member342and a pivotable member350. The stationary member342is substantially L shaped and includes a vertical member344extending up from the upper sealing flange308and transitioning into a horizontally extending member348which extends away from the cylindrical side wall302of the upper chamber300. The stationary member342is provided with a pivot pin345in which the pivotable member350rotates thereabout for unlatching the upper chamber300from the lower chamber280thereby allowing the upper chamber to be moved from a substantially horizontal position to an upward vertical position. The pivotable member350is substantially J shaped and includes a pivot hole352operatively couple to the pivot pin345. In a closed position, the J shaped member is rotated counter-clockwise such that an innerside of the tip351of the J shaped member is received on an underside353of the lower sealing flange292for locking the upper chamber to the lower chamber. Note that the outer side of the tip351of the J shaped member interacts with on/off lever of at least the micro-switch370thereby closing the micro-switch and allowing power to be transferred to the power control module122.

Referring toFIGS. 8,9and10, the upper chamber300is rigidly coupled to the lower chamber280via a pivotable hinge400. The hinge400includes a pair of spaced apart upper flanges401,402having holes disposed therein which are in axial alignment. A lower portion of the hinge400includes a pair of spaced apart lower flanges403,404which reside within the spaced apart upper flanges401,402of the upper portion of the hinge. The spaced apart flanges403,404include holes which are axially aligned thereby allowing a pin406to extend through a first upper flange401, a first lower flange403, a second lower flange404and then a second upper flange402thereby allowing pivotable motion of the upper chamber300with respect to the lower chamber280. The outer upper flanges of the hinge include outer lower surfaces which contact with an on/off lever391of at least the one micro-switch371for providing redundant protection from the magnetron being engaged prior to the sealing of the upper chamber with the lower chamber.

Referring toFIGS. 10 and 11, the upper chamber300includes a moisture evacuation chamber311disposed on top of the upper cylindrical wall302defining the microwave containment cavity of the upper chamber. The top plate312of the upper chamber is perforated in a manner which allows moisture to pass therethrough without the exhausting of microwaves. The moisture is aspirated by a plurality of fans328,330and332disposed on a back wall326of each of the three evacuation channels defined by a pair of out channel walls318,324and a pair of inner channel walls320,322as shown inFIG. 11. Preferably, the fans are on continuously during moisture volatilization. A dome shaped lid334covers the perforated top plate312of the upper chamber300and the evacuation channels wherein the fans are disposed. The fans328,330and332can be operatively coupled to the power control module or to the central processing unit for delivering power to the fans either in a direct or controlled manner.

Referring toFIG. 12, a cut-away view of the microwave containment chamber in a closed position is shown thereby revealing the microwave choke channel310disposed in the upper sealing flange of the upper chamber and having a height of 1.338 inches. The choke geometry traps and reflects microwave energy at ¼ wavelength to cancel the effectiveness of the energy. The choke channel310is a re-active choke system which presents a short-circuit impedance between the sealing flanges of the chamber260even if they are slightly separated or misaligned. In addition, the cut-away view reveals a first tuning rod410and portal wherein the tuning rod extends from the base plate across the portal opening and into the cylindrical side wall defining the lower chamber of the microwave containment chamber. In addition, a cut-away view of the carriage for supporting a sample is shown wherein the carriage250is operatively coupled to the weighing rod242extending through the centralized bore268of the base262of the lower microwave containment chamber280.

Referring toFIG. 13, the microwave containment chamber260is shown in an opened position thus revealing the spring bias means408coupled to the hinge400rigidly attaching the upper microwave chamber300with the lower microwave chamber280and providing means for retaining the upper microwave chamber in an opened position for ease of loading a sample onto the carriage250. The interior cylindrical wall306of the upper chamber has a height of 2.890 inches and an interior diameter of 6.340 inches. The annulus choke channel310circumscribing the cylindrical wall of the interior of the upper chamber is spaced therefrom and has an inner diameter of 8.023 inches and an outer diameter of 8.887 inches thereby defining the choke channel310having a circular width of 0.864 inches and a height of 1.338 inches. The interior cylindrical wall286of the bottom chamber280has a diameter of 6.340 inches which is the same diameter of the interior cylindrical wall306of the upper chamber300. The height of the interior cylindrical wall286of the lower chamber280is 2.890 inches which is also equal to the height of the interior wall306of the upper chamber300.FIG. 13also reveals a pair of tuning rods disposed substantially in quadrature specifically, separated by 93.4 degrees. The tuning rods410,420will be delineated in detail infra. Furthermore, note that two micro-switches370,372are provided to interact with the latch340for securing the upper chamber300to the lower chamber280.

Referring toFIGS. 14 and 15, the carriage250is configured as a spoked shaped wheel having a central hub252, a plurality of spokes256and an outer rim254wherein the central hub transitions into preferably four equally spaced apart spokes256terminating into the substantially circular outer rim254. The outer rim254is provided with a plurality of notches258off set from the spokes and preferably equally spaced one from another. The hub252of the carriage includes a blind bore which couples to the weighing rod242extending through the base262of the lower chamber282. In addition, and referring toFIGS. 14,16aand16b, the tuning rods410,420are shown to be disposed in the base plate of the lower chamber at a distance distal from the interior cylindrical wall thereof. The tuning rods each include a first end and a second end. The first ends412,422of the tuning rods are disposed in the base262of the lower chamber282and then transitions into medial portions414,424which are angled toward the interior side wall of the lower chamber wherein the tuning rods terminate into substantially horizontal ends416,426which are received in apertures disposed in the cylindrical side wall of the lower chamber. Note that each tuning rod has a height H in which it vertically extends from the base before transitioning into its medial portion which angles toward the cylindrical lower interior wall of the lower chamber. The tuning rods are toleranced around a nominal diameter. In addition, the tuning rods are spaced a distance L away from the cylindrical interior wall such that the rods410,420straddle the portals264,266respectively.

The tuning rods preferably bisect the portals at a median location wherein the portals are divided into equally spaced sectors. The tuning rods410,420have a diameter of 0.094 inches. As shown, the tuning rods include medial portions414,424with first ends412,422and second ends416,426. Each first end has a length of 0.200 inches and the second end of a length of 0.500 inches. The height between the first end and a bend interposed between the medial portion and the second end is equal to 0.621 inches. The length between the second end and the bend interposed between the first end and the medial portion is equal to 1.488 inches. Thus, an angle between the base plate and the tuning rod can be defined as approximately the inverse tangent of the length of the side opposite the angle divided by the height between the first bend and the second bend as shown in the drawing.

Tuning Rod Description

The apparatus10has a cylindrical microwave applicator including two control rods. Most microwave applicators (cavities) are of the type “multi-mode”, which refers to the amount of different mode patterns that can exist in the cavity for a given frequency. In our application we have two basic modes, one being TM012and the other being TM111. To be able to optimize the heat-distribution it is essential to be able to control the mode balance between the two modes. This is normally practiced by designing the microwave inlet coupling (particular the position) in such a way that desired balance is maintained for some predefined conditions. In this case with the specific modes its is not possible to achieve suitable balance with traditional means.

The instant invention includes the use of coupling-hole(s) (irises) or portals between the waveguide(s) and cavity. The basic idea with the tuning rod is to disturb the electric field of mode that is to be suppressed (in this case TM012). This mode has its electric field going in an arc of the total height of the cavity (rotational symmetrical), side wall of the cylinder. By introducing a metal rod semi parallel to the electrical field, one will disturb the mode and with that suppress its existence. The more parallel and the closer to its maximum of the effective to place the control rod in the near field of the inlet-coupling hole or portal than arbitrarily in the cavity. The preferred placement is just in front of the coupling hole on the cavity side of the coupling hole.

Referring toFIGS. 13 through 17the tuning rods410,420are between the cylindrical side wall above the coupling slots or portals and the flat circular wall or base some distance inwards radially. The general geometry is shown inFIG. 14,16aand16b. There are two perpendicular slots or portals fed in (almost) quadrature. The system inFIG. 23is doubled.

It has been found that the tuning rods provide a positive action, resulting in a stabilization of the impedance matching of the apparatus10(this is crucial, since the load is small).

The Cavity Feed and Possible Modes

The apparatus is supposed to have two resonances: TM111and TM012.

Resonant Action of the Device Structure

One may envision the tuning rod situation by supposing that two oppositely propagating waves from one narrow wall to the other interface in such a way that maximum field strength is obtained with minimum energy input—which is a very suitable way of defining resonance here.

What does the resonance result in?—The simplest answer is that a maximum part of the available power flow is “converted” to the resonant filed pattern; when this happens there will be less impinging power left so that the resonance will be self-limiting in amplitude. Generally, there will be an almost full nulling of one impinging filed component by the resonant field. This situation is shown inFIG. 23.

In effect, the incoming H field from each slot or portal will create a resonance (if the device dimensions are right) which will weaken the total H field at the wall in the region. Instead, there will be a strong H field around (and particularly outside) the “inner leg”412,422of the device, where there is no strong field without the device.

It is readily seen that the inner leg will act as a quite powerful excitor of a circulating H field, which will go over into a vertical E field upwards. This combination of E and H fields may couple quite well to a H field loop (with accompanying vertical E field) of the TMz11mode. There will thus be a good field matching from the device region (medial portion414,424) to the desired cavity mode.

The Coupling Between the Cavity and Device Region Resonances

This coupling function can be explained as follows: the coupling factor (in principle: transmission impedance equality) between the resonant device region and the cavity resonance will become quite frequency-sensitive, due to the reasonably high Q value of the device region. If the device region is now chosen to be resonant at a frequency some ten(s) of MHz away from 2460 MHz, the cavity resonance with a changing (i.e. drying) load will move along the resonant curve of the device region.If the Q value of the cavity is high, its own resonance will dominate and the coupling is good. When the cavity Q value goes down, the coupling will typically be less (since high coupling for a small sample is desirable). However, the overall resonant frequency will change less due to the resonance coupling between the two resonances. Furthermore, the coupling can be made to increase (due to the slope of the device region being active at the “start” of the process), and the impedance matching can be made fairly constant during the whole process.

There are thus several parameters which together determine if the combination of cavity and device region will work well:The resonant frequency of the cavity resonance without device (and at strong undercoupling), as a function of the load variations.The Q value of the cavity resonance, and its variation with the specified load variations.The field matching of a primary (slot) feed to the resonant mode(s) (this contributes to the determination of also the coupling factor).The field matching of the device region to the cavity mode (this contributes to the determination of also the coupling factor).The resonant frequency of the device region (under conditions of removed cavity).The internal Q value of the device region.The coupling factor from the slot to the cavity resonance, as a function of the load variations.The coupling factor from the slot to the device region (i.e. how much of the overall coupling is determined by the device region).

The unique configuration and dimensions of the wave guide will be delineated with the help ofFIGS. 17 and 18. The wave guide is substantially Y shaped having a base wave guide202which is approximately 3.5 inches in length and 2.13 inches in width, the first wave guide feed204having a length of 3.23 inches and a width of 1.6 inches, and the second wave guide feed206having a length of 4.8 inches and a width of 1.6 inches. The first and second wave guide feeds204,206bifurcate from the main wave guide at a intermediate junction208. A splitter can be added at the junction to assist in setting up the phase shift. The first wave guide feed204transitions into the first portal264disposed in the base262of the lower chamber280while the second wave guide feed206transitions into the second portal266disposed in the base plate262of the lower chamber280. The mid-point of the first portal is at a 31.35 degree angle with respect to a plane P bisecting the transitional area of the first wave guide feed and the second wave guide feed. The mid-point of the second portal has an angle of 62.05 degrees with respect to this bisecting plane as is shown inFIG. 17.

Referring toFIG. 18, the portals264,266of the base262provide openings for delivery of microwave energy to the sample being assayed and subsequently manipulated for a loss on drying analysis. The portals264,266are substantially canoe shaped openings having radiused bottoms of preferably 3.130 inches away from a mid-point of the centralized bore disposed in the base of the lower chamber. The radiused bottom transitions into radiused corners having a 0.1 inch radius and a chord extending from one radiused edge to the other thereby forming a closed canoe shaped opening.

Referring toFIG. 19, the magnetron is operatively coupled to an outside wall of the base branch of the quadrature wave guide and communicates with the base branch of the quadrature wave guide via a magnetron antenna hole220disposed through a side wall of the base branch of the wave guide. In addition, a tuning stub222extends through an outside wall and into the first branch204of the wave guide200at a location proximate the bifurcation of the wave guide into the first and second branches. The tuning stub222is dimensioned to attenuate a third energy mode such that there are only two substantial energy modes being delivered to the chamber. In other words, tuning stub222filters out measurably a third mode, assuring only two modes enter chamber at peak efficiency. The third mode used to have a drastic effect of sample position tolerance and uniform drying.

A preferred embodiment of the rotation means450is shown as570inFIGS. 20athrough20d. Referring toFIG. 20a, rotation means570includes an engage/disengage servomotor572which is coupled to the bottom of the chamber via a bracket576. The bracket576includes an interior hollow area578which allows a shaft574of the servomotor572to couple to a drive motor582via a rotatable platform580. The drive motor582includes a shaft584coupled to a drive motor wheel586. The drive motor wheel586coacts with a friction drive wheel588which is coupled to the upper member542of weighing rod242for rotating the carriage250and thus the sample. The drive motor582preferably has bi-directional capability for clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the carriage250and variable speed control (angular velocity) for variable clockwise or counterclockwise rotative speed of the carriage250.

The upper member542is coupled to the lower member544via sleeve590wherein the upper member is allowed to turn within the sleeve when the friction drive wheel588is rotated.

Referring toFIG. 20a, when the rotation means is actuated the engage/disengage servomotor572rotates the drive motor582in a clockwise or in a counterclockwise direction along double ended arrow “X”. In an engage mode the power control board signals the servomotor572to rotate the platform580in a counterclockwise direction such that the drive motor wheel586contacts the friction drive wheel588. Simultaneously, the drive motor is activated by the power control board to rotate the drive motor wheel586in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction along double ended arrow “Y”. Thus, when the motor wheel586contacts the friction drive wheel588it is rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction along double ended arrow “Z” thereby rotating the carriage250.FIG. 20cshows the rotation means570in an engage position whileFIG. 20dshows the rotation means in a disengage position.

Referring toFIG. 21, a preferred embodiment of the microwave phase controller is designed to drive the microwave chamber. The concept of controlling the average output power of the magnetron with a TRIAC topology is proven. The microwave phase controller design is made up of six building blocks.System powerLine sync detectorMicro-controller pulse width modulatorLine voltage detectionTRIAC moduleIsolated Anode current A/D

Each of the building blocks will be discussed in detail.

The system power is supplied by an off the shelf universal switching power supply. The outputs are +5 volts, +12 volts, and −12 volts. Primary is fuse protected.

Line Sync Detector

The 50/60 hz ac input is sampled by a small icon core transformer (T1). Referenced to earth ground, the signal is fed to a comparator (U5). The same signal is also rectified and filtered (D8, C10) to provide a line amplitude “regulated” reference voltage with respect to the input ac amplitude. Pull up resistor (R42) provides the TTL level conversion. The output of the comparator (U5) is a crisp 60 hz square wave. The signal is fed directly into the 16C84 processor (U13), it is also sent to an inverter (U14) to provide the complement for the opposite phase detection. This detection of the line frequency is necessary for TRIAC turn on timing, explained later.

Micro-Controller Pulse Width Modulator

The micro-controller PWM is designed around a PIC 16C84 micro-processor (U13). Phase detection signals arrive at pins 9 and 10, 60 hz square waves 180° out of phase from each other. In software, a delay is created after the rising edge of one of the phase signals is detected (zero crossing point). This process is completed for both the phases in the same manner. The longer the delay value, the less average power delivered to the magnetron. The desired power level, is received via synchronous serial communication, from the digital board micro-processor (Z-180). This power level value is actually sent as desired Anode current A/D counts. The 16C84 matches the power level counts to the Anode current A/D counts received from the isolated A/D circuit, constantly adjusting the delay time from the phase signal zero crossing to when the TRIAC is turned on. This is the topology of regulation.

Line Voltage Detection

Transformer (TI), diode (D8) and capacitor (C10) provide a filtered DC voltage that represents the input line voltage amplitude. An average voltage of about 3 vdc is recovered with an input voltage of 115 vac, and about 6 vdc for an input voltage of 230 vac. U5:B and U5:C are comparing a fixed reference voltage to the recovered input line voltage sample. The board can be configured for two different line voltages by selecting jumper “115VAC” or “230VAC”. If the sampled line voltage does not match the selected configuration, the 16C84 will not allow the TRIAC to turn on, and the Z-180 receives the error message prompting the user that the configuration is mismatched.

Triac Module

The TRIAC module consists of an optical coupler (U2) for isolation and drive of the TRIAC gate. Pin1is pulled high with a 330 ohm resistor (R6) only when the SSR “set system run” line is set high by the Z-180. The drive can be aborted if the line voltage status fails by turning on Q1. The TRIAC (Q2) is a 800 volt, 25 amp, isolated case device from Motorola. A 3 square inch heat sink provides moderate thermal dissipation for the device. R2provides gate current when the opto-coupler turns on. The components that make up the snubber network are R9, R10, R11, C2, C3and C4. These components provide protection to the TRIAC from voltage spikes generated by the huge inductive load. A series power resistor (0.5 ohm/55 watt) is added between the TRIAC and the Anode high voltage transformer to increase the protection and lower the conducted emissions. The TRIAC power source is independently fused at 10 amps.

The anode current can be used to monitor and the average power the magnetron delivers. For example, the current that the Anode receives flows through the sense resistors “SENSE1, SENSE2”. The voltage across the sense resistors represent the Anode current. Should the sense resistors open up, a lethal potential would be present at the isolated A/D circuit. To provide a measure of safety, two high voltage diodes (D10, D11) clamp across the sense resistors to hold the high voltage to a safe level of about +/−2v. The A/D also is optically isolated by U6and U10. After the voltage is recovered from the sense resistors, it can be fed to an OP-AMP (U11:A) which can boost the signal to a more workable level. A ramp generator is made up of U4:A,B,C, C11, R14, U11:B and Q4is the switch. A ramp clock can be provided by the 16C84 (AD-CLK). The voltage reference IC (U3) provides a voltage for U4so the ramp generator does not drift with temperature. The ramp slope can be compared to the amplified analog voltage at U9:A. The output of the comparator (U9:A) stays high until the ramp slope matches the analog voltage amplitude, then the output switches low. If the analog voltage is low in amplitude, the comparator switches low sooner. If the amplitude is higher, then the comparator switch time is longer. Synchronizing the output of the comparator with the A/D clock takes place at U8:A and U7:A. The output of U7:A is a pulse width modulator that operates at the A/D clock frequency with a pulse width that is proportional to the average current that flows across the sense resistors. In the 16C84 software, an 8 bit timer starts counting at the beginning of the pulse width received, and stops when the pulse goes away.

Referring toFIGS. 6,11and24, the microwave energy module450is operatively disposed within the analysis chamber260for controlling, inter alia, the loss on drying process of the sample being assayed and determining when the drying process is complete by sensing microwave energy or magnetic and/or electric field strengths within the chamber260. Note that a plurality of microwave modules can be deployed to monitor microwave energy within the containment chamber and will operate in the same manner as described hereinbelow with respect to the single microwave energy module450.

As the sample or load in which the magnetron170is delivering power to begins to diminish (i.e., moisture from the sample is being liberated) a field of reflected energy begins to build. Referring toFIG. 24, the microwave energy module450is designed to receive this reflected microwave energy and convert the energy into a usable, proportional voltage for regulation purposes. This is accomplished by placing the small loop antenna454and/or a pin antenna455of the microwave energy module450in close proximity with or into at least one of the existing top vent holes314disposed in the lid312of the chamber260. The loop antenna senses magnetic fields or H-fields within the analysis chamber260and the pin-type antenna senses electric fields or E-fields within the analysis chamber260.

Note that the microwave energy module450operates in a similar manner when either the pin antenna455or the loop antenna454is employed. Thus, the functionality of the module450will be described using the loop antenna with the understanding that the same description applies when the pin antenna is used in place of the loop antenna454. In addition, both the small loop antenna454and the pin antenna455can be employed by a pair of microwave energy modules450for sensing microwave energy within the chamber260.

In one embodiment, the small loop antenna454of the microwave energy module450is placed into one of the existing top vent holes314disposed in the lid312. The loop antenna454is connected in a series configuration with a fast schottky barrier diode or UHF detector diode452and a ferrite bead456. The loop antenna454senses the microwave energy within the chamber260and converts it into a current which is fed to the schottky diode452. The schottky diode452rectifies the current into a voltage which is fed to the ferrite bead456. The ferrite bead456provides fast attenuation of high frequency noise.

More specifically, one end of the loop antenna454is connected to an anode of the diode452and the other end is connected to ground. The ferrite bead456includes a first end connected to a cathode end of the diode452and a second end connected to a first end of a resistor458. The loop antenna454and the diode452have a resistor460and a capacitor462coupled in parallel therewith which act as a local filter for the voltage signal. A second capacitor464is connected between ground and a second end of the resistor458. Capacitor464and resistor458serve to average out and condition an output signal which is taken at an output terminal466which is located at the second end of the resistor458.

The signal output terminal466of the module450is operatively coupled to the power control board122which in turn is coupled to the central processing unit380. The output signals outputted from the module450are analog voltage signals which can be used for regulating the output power of the magnetron170as a function of the energy sensed within the containment chamber260. In addition, the magnetron is completely turned off as a function of the signals received from the microwave energy module450.

Alternatively, the analog signals outputted from the module450can be digitized by the analog to digital converter of the power control board122or, in the alternative, by the central processing unit380. The power control board122can use the digitized signals for controlling and regulating the magnetron170as a function of the energy sensed within the containment chamber260. In addition, the power control board122can turn off the magnetron as a function of the signals received from the microwave energy module450. Thus, the power control board122can provide full control of the magnetron170in direct response to the signal(s) received from the microwave energy module450or can do this under the orchestration of the central processing unit380processing the signals received from the microwave energy module450. In other words, the apparatus10employs a closed loop system for controlling, inter alia, the loss on drying process of the sample being assayed and determining when the drying process is complete

Specifically, the power control board122provides the input signal for controlling the magnetron. The magnetron170outputs energy to the chamber260during the drying process. As the sample or load in which the magnetron is delivering power to begins to diminish (i.e., moisture from the sample is being liberated), a field of reflected energy begins to build. The microwave energy module450senses this reflected microwave energy and converts the energy into a usable output signal. The output signal is fed to the power control board122which in turn feeds a signal to the magnetron170for providing a closed loop system and control of the loss on drying process. Thus, the closed loop system allows the output energy of the magnetron170to be regulated and turned off in response to the energy sensed in the chamber260by the module450for providing a superior closed loop loss on drying process. The central processing unit can be employed in this closed loop system by communicating with the power control board122as delineated hereinabove.

The central processing unit380ultimately collects data from the microwave energy module450correlative to the energy in the containment chamber260and can use this data for controlling, inter alia, the loss on drying process in a variety of ways which will be delineated infra.

Referring toFIGS. 6,9and11a sample rotation module540or sample rotation means540is preferably provided for rotating the carriage250during the drying process. Referring toFIGS. 12 and 15, the carriage250supports the sample within the chamber260. The sample is preferably placed between two glass pads580,582which are placed on top of the carriage. The carriage is connected to the two piece weighing rod242which extends through the bottom of the chamber and then into operable communication with both the electronic balance and the sample rotation module540. Thus, the two piece weighing rod242couples the carriage250with the electronic balance for weighing the sample. In addition, the two piece weighing rod operatively couples to the rotation means450for rotating the sample.

Referring toFIGS. 9 and 22, the rotation means450includes a bearing or a sleeve546which is operatively interposed between an upper member542of the weighing rod242which couples to the carriage250and a lower member544of the weighing rod242which couples to the horizontal lever arm244. Thus, a motor554can be engaged with the upper member542of the weighing rod242to rotate the carriage250during the drying process and disengaged from the upper member542when, for example, the sample is being weighed.

More specifically, and referring toFIGS. 9 and 11, the carriage250is rotated by motor554which includes a shaft552having a rubber wheel or gear550disposed thereon. The wheel550can be brought into communication with the upper member542of the weighing rod by engaging the upper member directly or by coupling to a complemental wheel or gear548disposed on the upper member542. Preferably, the shaft552of the motor554is substantially parallel with the upper member542of the weighing rod242such that the motor554can be disposed on an upper surface556of a roller conveyor558and translated into and out of engagement with the upper member of the weighing rod by way of a servo-motor566. The servo-motor566employs a crank562and a set of rods560,564for translating the roller conveyor558into and out of engagement with member542. Specifically, the conveyor rod560is pivotally coupled between the roller conveyor558and the crank562and the servo-motor rod564is pivotal coupled between the crank562and the servo-motor566. Thus, the servo-motor566can be driven in a single direction along arrow “A” such that during one-half a revolution of the crank562the conveyor rod560is pushing the roller conveyor558away from the upper member542and during a second-half of the revolution of the crank the conveyor rod560is pulling the roller conveyor558towards the upper member542for translating the roller conveyor558and motor566in a fore and aft direction along double ended arrow “B”.

Referring toFIG. 11, the smoke/gas detector module480and the flash detector module510are operatively disposed within the analysis chamber260. The smoke/gas detector module480provides means for detecting a gas product within the chamber260. Thus, the smoke/gas detector module480provides means for indicating endpoint runover. One detectable gas product takes the form of, for example, carbon dioxide. Therefore, the smoke/gas detector system provides means for detecting burning material, especially of organic origin, which is made visible by the presence of small particles of carbon. The flash detector module510provides means for measuring and/or detecting radiant energy particularly in the form of light. Thus, the flash detector module510provides us a warning of any ignition within the analysis chamber260.

A circuit schematic of the smoke/gas detector module480is shown inFIG. 25. The circuit is designed around a gas detector500to detect the gases created when, for example, a sample begins to burn. A positive 12 volt potential is fed into an input of a voltage regulator484to provide a stable solid positive 5 volt output used for reference. Capacitors482and486filter the DC voltage coming into and going out of the voltage regulator484respectively. A voltage divider is set up between resistor488and a variable resistor490to allow adjustability of a threshold point which is fed to a positive input terminal of a comparator494. Note that capacitor492filters the divided voltage. A gas sensor500detects gas within the chamber via at least one ventilation hole314and applies a voltage at a negative input terminal of the comparator494proportional to the level of gas detected. Resistor496divides down this amplitude for adjustability. Resistor498provides feed back from the output504of the comparator498to the positive input of the comparator to preclude oscillation. Resistor502serves as a pull-up resistor to provide a positive 5 volt TTL logic levels for further circuitry to read. A logic high at the output504of the comparator494is a normal operating state for the gas detector module480while a logic low indicates a predetermined level of gas within the chamber260. The input of the smoke/gas detector module480is preferably coupled to the power control board122which provides the positive 12 volt potential fed to the voltage regulator484. The output of the smoke/gas detector module is coupled to the power control board122. Thus, when a low is indicated by the output of module480the magnetron can be immediately turned off. Thus, the power control board122can turn off the magnetron170in direct response to the signal(s) received from the smoke/gas detector module480or can do this under the orchestration of the central processing unit. In addition, the smoke/gas detector module480can be coupled to an alarm which sounded when a logic low is indicated by the output of module480. Furthermore, the output signals of the smoke/gas detector module480can also be fed to the CPU for recording the signals in memory.

Referring toFIG. 26, a circuit schematic of the microwave flash detector510is shown which detects the presence of light generated when a sample begins to ignite.

The flash detector module510includes a regulator514having an input which receives a positive 12 volt potential from the power control board122and outputs a stable 5 volt potential at an output to be used for reference. Capacitors512and516filter the DC voltage coming into and going out of the regulator514. A voltage divider is set up between resistors518and520to allow adjustability of a threshold point. Capacitor522filters the divided voltage. The reference voltage from the voltage divider is fed to a positive input terminal of a voltage comparator524. A photo transistor530applies a voltage at the negative input of the comparator524as light excites a base of the photo transistor530. The base of the photo transistor530communicates with the interior of the chamber260via at least one vent hole314. Resistor526is used to divide down the amplitude of the output of the transistor530for adjustability. A feed back resister528precludes oscillation of the circuit. A pull-up resister532is used to provide a positive 5 volt TTL logic level for further circuitry to read. Preferably, a logic high at the output532is the normal operating state of the flash detector module510while a logic low indicates ignition in the chamber260. When ignition in the chamber260is detected the module510sends a logic low signal to the power control board122to immediately turn off the magnetron170. Thus, the power control board122can turn off the magnetron170in direct response to the signal(s) received from the flash detector module510or can do this under the orchestration of the central processing unit380. In addition, the flash detector module510can be coupled to an alarm which is sounded when a logic low is indicated by the output of module510. Furthermore, the output signals of the smoke/gas detector module480can collected by the CPU and stored in memory.

In use and operation, and referring toFIGS. 6,11,15and22, a sample to be assayed is placed between two glass pads580,582which are disposed on the carriage250. The carriage250is operatively coupled to the top loading electronic balance240and the rotation means450via a two piece weighing rod242. The initial weight of the sample is determined by the electronic balance240and preferably stored in memory means384via the CPU380.

After the initial weight of the sample has been determined the magnetron170is energized by the power control board122. In addition, the rotation means450is actuated by the power control board signaling the engage/disengage servo motor566to position the rotation motor wheel550of the motor554into contact with the rod wheel548disposed on the rotatable upper member542of the weighing rod242. Both of these actions can be orchestrated by the CPU380. The same signal that initiates the engage/disengage servo motor566also activates the carriage rotation motor554thereby rotating motor wheel550, rod wheel548, upper member542, carriage250, glass pads580,582and the sample which is to be radiated within the microwave chamber260. Note that the hinged cover or upper chamber300must be in a closed position during the drying process and the plurality of micro-switches disable the magnetron170should the cover300be opened while the apparatus10is in operation or if the cover300is improperly closed. In addition, fans328,330and332preferably provide continuous ventilation of moisture within the chamber260during the drying process.

As the sample or load in which the magnetron is delivering power begins to diminish (i.e., moisture from the sample is being liberated), a field of reflected energy begins to build which can be sensed by the microwave energy module450and converted into a usable output signal. Thus, microwave energy module450can be advantageously employed in a variety of different ways for superior loss on drying (LOD) moisture determination. For example, the microwave energy module450can used to monitor the microwave energy within the chamber260and control the drying process of the sample to an endpoint as a function of the monitored microwave energy. Once an endpoint has been determined the engage/disengage servo motor566receives a signal for disengaging the rotation motor wheel550from contact with the rod wheel548thereby ceasing carriage rotation. The sample is then reweighed to obtain the final weight and the moisture content is calculated from the stored initial weight and the final weight. The percentage of moisture or volatiles in the sample can be determined by the formula:
% M=((WI−WF)/WI)(100)

where% M is said percentage of moisture or volatiles in the sample,WIis said initial weight of the sample, andWFis said final weight of the sample.

In a further embodiment, the method for loss on drying can include establishing a benchmark correlative to a level of microwave energy sensed by a sensor, employing the sensor to monitor a level of microwave energy within a chamber wherein a sample is being radiated and comparing the monitored energy level with the benchmark level for controlling a drying process of the sample.

For example, the microwave energy module can be used to detect an increase in energy which is unabsorbed by the sample and when this energy increase is at an empirically predetermined level over a period of time, the microwave power can be shut off (please seeFIG. 28). Another paradigm includes using the microwave energy module450to detect an energy level which corresponds to a point on a energy curve which has a slope which is less than a slope predetermined through experimentation. Once this energy level is detected the microwave energy or magnetron is turned off. Therefore, the module450can be used to control the loss on drying process and the moisture content of the sample can be determined by weighing the sample before the process and after the process (i.e., only twice) for obtaining a percentage of moisture or volatiles in the sample.

Another further embodiment of the drying process includes initially weighing the sample being assayed and then rotating the sample while applying constant microwave energy into the analysis chamber260containing the sample and waiting for a signal from the microwave energy module450to stabilize on a high value (please seeFIG. 28). It has been discovered that when the signal does not change, stabilizes on a high value, the load is not changing either (i.e., moisture from the load is not being driven off). Thus, this condition can be used to define an endpoint to the drying process wherein the magnetron is turned off and the rotation of the sample is stopped. The final weight of the sample is then measured and the moisture content calculated.

Another further embodiment of the drying process includes the drying process being controlled by modifying the amount of microwave energy delivered to the chamber as a function of the monitored energy until the endpoint is reached (please seeFIG. 27). After the endpoint is reached the engage/disengage servo motor566receives a signal for disengaging the rotation motor wheel550from contact with the rod wheel548thereby ceasing carriage rotation. The sample is then reweighed to obtain the final weight and the moisture content is calculated from the stored initial weight and the final weight.

Specifically, the output signal from microwave energy module450can be used for regulating the amount of microwave energy applied to the analysis chamber260. Specifically, the sample can be placed between two glass pads and then located on the carriage250operatively disposed within the analysis chamber260. The carriage250is operatively coupled to the top loading electronic balance240and the rotation means450via the two piece weighing rod242. Thus, the balance can be used to determine the initial weight of the sample by being calibrated to take into account the weight of the glass pads. Once the initial weight of the sample is discerned the magnetron170can be turned on to apply microwave energy through the wave guide into the analysis chamber260and the sample can be rotated as delineated hereinabove. The microwave energy module450senses the energy within the chamber260and outputs a signal correlative thereto. This signal is then compared to one or more predetermined signal levels stored in the central processing unit380and/or memory. The central processing unit then communicates with the power control board122for regulating the amount of applied microwave energy from the magnetron170to the containment chamber260as a function of the comparison step thereby controlling the drying process of the sample. Once the central processing unit380receives a signal from the microwave energy module450which is correlative to an endpoint condition the central processing unit380signal control the power control board122to turn the magnetron170off and stop the rotation of the sample. The balance can then be used to determine the final weight of the sample and the moisture content can be calculated by the central processing unit380and then displayed via display70.

More specifically, the initial weight of the sample can be determined and then a predetermined level of microwave energy can be applied to the sample within the chamber260as the sample is rotated. Next, a first interval of time between the initial application of microwave energy and when an outputted signal correlative to the sensed energy is at a first predetermined level of signal strength can be measured. Once this time is discerned the applied microwave energy can be regulated in such a way that the sensed signal correlative to the applied microwave energy is ramped down to subsequently decreasing ratios of the first predetermined signal level over subsequent intervals of time which are each a multiple of the first interval of time (please seeFIG. 30). For example, the initial weight of the sample can be determined and then a predetermined level of microwave energy can be applied to the sample within the chamber260as the sample is rotated. Next, the time it takes the microwave energy module450to sense a predetermined level of signal strength can be measured. Once this time is discerned the applied microwave energy can be regulated in such a way that the signal correlative to the applied energy will ramp down to one-half of the predetermined signal level for an additional time T2which is equal to the previously measured time T1. Subsequently, the microwave power can be regulated in such a way that the sensor signal will ramp down to one-fourth of the predetermined signal level for an additional time T3which is a multiple of T1. Once this is completed the final weight of the sample can be determined and the loss on drying moisture content can be calculated.

Another further embodiment of the method for loss on drying can include the step of using a test sample for establishing an algorithm correlative to a change in radiation as function of the test sample and the algorithm including a benchmark correlative to an endpoint condition. Next, determine an initial weight of a subsequent sample before it is radiated. The subsequent sample is then radiated within the chamber and the radiation, correlative to an absorbability of the subsequent sample, is sensed by module450and compared to the algorithm for determining when a benchmark correlative to an endpoint condition is detected for signaling the magnetron to be turned off. The final weight of the sample is then determined and the moisture content calculated. Preferably, the subsequent sample is rotated while being radiated as described supra.

Another further embodiment of the method for loss on drying can include establishing a characteristic radiation curve of a sample type correlative of its radiation absorbability, radiating a sample contained within a chamber and comparing subsequently sensed levels of radiation within the chamber with the characteristic curve for determining an endpoint condition.

Another further embodiment of the method for loss on drying can include establishing a characteristic radiation curve of a sample type correlative of its radiation absorbability. Then, radiating a specimen of the sample type and developing a specimen radiation curve by monitoring a change in radiation correlative to radiation absorbability of the specimen. A transition of slope on the characteristic radiation curve is then compared with a transition of slope on the specimen radiation curve while continuing to radiate the specimen until a predetermined endpoint condition has been detected based on the comparison step (please seeFIG. 29).

Once all of the moisture has been exhausted from the sample, it is possible to start extracting additional substances other then water should the power continued to be applied without a endpoint determination being seen. This of course alters the mass which introduces an error in the final moisture calculation. The instant invention solves this problem by providing the smoke/gas detector module480which detects the gases created when a sample begins to burn. The input of the smoke/gas detector module480is preferably coupled to the power control board which provides power thereto and the output of the smoke/gas is fed to the power control board122for providing closed loop control. Thus, when a low is indicated by the output of module480the magnetron is turned off. Specifically, the power control board provides the input signal for controlling the magnetron. The magnetron outputs energy to the chamber and if smoke/gas is detected by the smoke/gas detector module480a signal is fed back to the power control board for providing a closed loop system which controls the magnetron

In addition to the gas detector module480described hereinabove, a microwave flash detector module510is provided for detecting the presence of light generated when a sample begins to ignite and signaling the power control board122to immediately disassociate the magnetron from delivering microwave power to the chamber260. Although the possibility of a sample igniting in the chamber260while doing a loss on drying process is low, it does exist.

The input of the flash detector module510is preferably coupled to the power control board which provides power thereto and the output of the flash detector module510is fed to the power control board122for providing closed loop control. Specifically, the power control board provides the input signal for controlling the magnetron. The magnetron outputs energy to the chamber and if the presence of light is detected by the flash detector module510a signal is fed back to the power control board for providing a closed loop system which controls the magnetron.

The microwave moisture analyzer is a state of the art microprocessor based moisture/solids analyzer10which uses the principles of loss on drying (LOD) analysis. Samples are heated using microwave energy to liberate moisture or other volatiles until end point conditions are met. When the analyzer is turned on by placing the on/off switch on the back of the analyzer into the on position, the analyzer will proceed through a self diagnostic routine and then display a stand-by screen on preferably a backlit liquid crystal display70. Preferably, the liquid crystal display70is a dot addressable device which allows the analyzer to convey a rich variety of detailed information in plain English descriptive prompts, menus, or help messages. The set-up of the microwave moisture analyzer is accomplished by merely selecting the appropriate routine from the menu driven software displayed on the LCD display70. Drying parameters are easily entered through the soft keys72,74,76,78or the numeric keypad either by touching the corresponding number or entering the exact value with the numeric keys. Preferably, the LCD display70will conveniently illustrate all of the drying parameters including units, temperatures and end point selections. The memory associated with the central processing unit can be used to store drying procedures with meaningful alpha-numeric program names while the recall routine allows easy selection. The simplicity of the soft keys and the numeric keypads and the display prompts make routine operations near-effortless. The microwave moisture analyzer automatically calculates and documents results on its internal printer. Preferably, a choice of printouts provide either a simple result or a format including selection of operator name, analyzer I.D., program name and drying parameters, and for true customization, a multi-line header. As mentioned, the microwave moisture analyzer features data storage and in addition has the ability to provide statistical evaluations of selected data.

More specifically, when the on/off switch on the back of the analyzer is placed into the on position the analyzer proceeds through a self diagnostic routine and then displays a stand-by screen to the user via the LCD display. A title line on the top of the stand-by screen identifies the specific screen displayed along with date and time. In addition, the bottom of the stand-by screen identifies four different options which may be selected via the associated soft keys disposed below each respective option. These options include a recall option, a set-up option, a data option and a paper feed option. When the soft key correlative to the set-up option is pressed a set-up screen will be displayed on the LCD which preferably includes seven menu driven choices. These seven menu driven choices can be either initiated via the numeric keypad or by using the directional arrow keys to scroll up and down the menu and then hitting the enter key to select the highlighted option. These seven options include a beeper option, a develop option, a security option, a calibrate option, a print-out option, a clock option and an output option. The bottom of the screen of the set-up display provides the user with an exit choice or a help choice which can be initiated by pressing the correlative soft key located directly there beneath. The beeper option allows the user to turn on or off a sound annunciation when either a key is pressed or when an end of test is discerned by the analyzer. The beeper screen incorporates a stand-by option displayed in the lower menu and can be used to go back to the stand-by screen by pressing the soft key associated therewith.

The second option of the set-up screen is preferably the develop option wherein drying procedures can be developed by optimizing the drying parameters for specific applications. Specifically, when the develop option is chosen a develop screen will be displayed with a plurality of selections to choice from. The selections may include units, power one, time one, power two, time two, slope, target and mode choices. Any one of these options may be initiated by either pressing the corresponding numeral on the numeric keypad which correlates to the option or by using the direction keys to scroll through the options and then hitting the enter key when the option which is desired is highlighted on the LCD screen display. The units option allows the user to select or change the units of measure depending on a specific application. Thus, when the units option is selected the display will change to the list of units available to the user which preferably includes five choices: a moisture choice, a solids choice, a volatiles choice and a MG/L choice. After a unit has been selected the display will return to the develop screen showing the new unit selected.

The power one option allows the user to set the power level to be used during a first time period. When the power one option is selected from the develop screen a power one screen will be displayed allowing the user to chose a power level between the range one to one hundred percent of the rated power output to the microwave containment chamber. Once the power is selected the analyzer will once again display the develop screen to allow the user to make a subsequent choice if the time in which the magnetron will be driven to provide the power one option is chosen by selecting the time one option of the development screen. This option provides a pop-up menu which allows the user to select a range of time of preferably between 0.1 minute and sixty minutes. A second power level may be chosen when using a two-step drying method. The second power level works identically to the first power level wherein the power level is selected by the user via a pop-up menu. Likewise, a time two option of the development screen allows the time at which the second power level will be driven to by chosen by the user as has been delineated for the time one option.

The next option on the develop screen is an endpoint option. In one embodiment, the endpoint option is a function which allows the user to select an algorithm based on the sample being assayed which provides an automatic endpoint to the test. The endpoint function is preferably based on an established algorithm correlative to a change in radiation within the chamber as a function of sample absorbability.

In another embodiment, the endpoint option is a function which allows the user to select or define a signal level in which the output of module450is compared to and which also allows the user to select or define how the applied microwave energy is regulated as a function of the comparison step for providing an automatic endpoint to the test.

In a further embodiment, the endpoint option is a function which allows the user to select a characteristic radiation curve of a sample type correlative of its radiation absorbability and then comparing subsequently sensed levels of radiation curve as monitored by the module450for providing an automatic endpoint to the test.

In a further embodiment, the endpoint option is a function which allows the user to select a transition of slope or an inflection of slope of the sensed radiation as monitored by the module450for providing an automatic endpoint to the test.

In each case the initial weight of the sample is determined prior to the sample being radiated and the final weight of the sample is determined after the endpoint condition is meet. The moisture content of the sample is then calculated.

The user may return to the develop screen by simply pressing the enter key after suing the slope option or by simply turning off the slope completely.

The next option of is a target option wherein the user can enter a target initial weight preferably in grams within a range of zero point one to thirty grams and then press the enter key to set the parameters.

The last option of the develop screen is a mode option wherein the user may select between a standard mode, a MG/L mode, a pre-dried pad mode or a syringe mode. Once the user has completed his development of the sample to be assayed he may simply use the save option displayed on the soft key menu by pressing the associated soft key. Once the save option has been initiated the user is allowed to select a location to store the develop program as a program number, for example one through ninety-nine. In addition, the user may specifically name the program via a pop-up program name showing the alphabet and various characters. The user uses the direction arrow keys to highlight the character on the pop-up menu and then presses and enter key to spell out the name of the program, this name is then saved using the soft menu save option. When the user has completed these functions the software will revert back to the standby screen wherein the soft menu includes a recall option, a set-up option, a data option and a paper feed option which may be initiated by activating any one of the soft keys associated therewith.

The set-up option includes a security option wherein the user can set up a security routine for precluding unauthorized personnel from using the analyzer. For example, the user can set up a specific password which must be entered prior to the analyzer being activated. This is done in the same manner as naming a program. In addition, the security menu includes option where programs can be cleared, data can be cleared, system information can be provided and programs can be alphabetized.

The set-up option also includes a calibration option wherein the precision balance can be calibrated. For example, once the calibrate option is displayed the user can place a predetermined amount of weight on the balance when prompted by the display and the analyzer will automatically recognize the weight and adjust the weight display to correspond thereto. For example, a fifty gram weight can be placed on the sample carriage when prompted by the display and will result in display a “calibration done” output on the LCD when the calibration has been successful.

The following outlines the typical steps used in developing an optimized drying procedure which is accurate and reproducible for a given type sample with typical range of moisture and a desired sample size. In general, a standard convection oven method is used as a reference method to determine the accuracy of the microwave analyzer method. Sequentially, various parameters of the drying procedure will be modified based on experiment test data from actual sample testing with the goal of meeting specific methods development objectives including accuracy, precision and analysis time.

First, a development sample is chosen which is representative of the sample requiring a moisture test method using the analyzer. This is a typical sample with a known moisture value as tested by the reference method which is chosen to do most of the methods development. The method should then be verified and modified based on a larger sample set with varying moisture levels across the typical moisture range to improve the method robustness.

Development Steps

1) Sample preparation2) Selecting the presentation technique of one or two glass pads3) Optimizing sample size and weight4) Selecting the optimum endpoint according to microwave energy field5) Optimizing the drying power level for minimum analysis time6) Developing a two step drying procedure

Typically the sample will be prepared identically to that of the reference method to obtain good sample representation. Select one or two glass pads based on the sample consistency. Liquid samples will typically be dispensed onto a single pad, whereas samples of a paste consistency will be sandwiched between two pads.

Start the drying procedure development by using the default drying conditions to test the development sample using a 2–5 g sample size using the determined presentation technique. Several replicates should be tested noting moisture recovery as compared to the known moisture value, reproducibility of test results, analysis time and sample appearance after testing.

A change to a larger sample size should be considered if the sample is heterogeneous and great representation is necessary to achieve better reproducibility. A change to a smaller sample size should be considered to reduce the analysis time.

A change to a lower power level should be considered if the sample after testing appears scorched or a higher recovery than expected occurs. A change to a higher power level should be considered to reduce the analysis time. In some cases it may be advantageous to develop a two step drying procedure where the power level can be reduced to a lower level after the set corresponding period of Time1.

Moreover, having thus described the invention, it should be apparent that numerous structural modifications and adaptations may be resorted to without departing from the scope and fair meaning of the instant invention as set forth hereinabove and as described hereinbelow by the claims. For example, an embodiment is contemplated once having had the benefit of the foregoing teachings, wherein a method for loss on drying includes the steps of placing a sample in a microwave, powering the microwave to dry the sample, monitoring and/or sensing the microwave energy within the microwave and weighing the sample either continuously or intermittently (e.g. at sensed endpoints) while powering the microwave. Alternatively, an embodiment is envisioned wherein a method for loss on drying may include the steps of placing a sample in a microwave and powering the microwave to dry the sample for an initial period of time and then intermittently or continuously weighing the sample while monitoring and/or sensing the microwave energy after the initial time to an endpoint condition. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description as set forth hereinabove.