Development of a microwave displacement sensor for hydraulic devices

Abstract

The paper presents the fundamentals, design, realization and characterization of a state-of-the-art microwave (μW) based piston position detection sensor (PPDS) for stationary or moving pistons in hydraulic devices. This function has a high importance in industrial applications to provide a precise feeding in position controlled hydraulic drives. Today there are a limited number of methods used, all of which are cost-intensive and have specific weaknesses, such as the need for radical mechanical modifications in the cylinder structure, restricted robustness and life-time, respectively.