Magnetometer Having Periodic Winding Structure and Material Property Estimator

Author:  N. Goldfine, J Melcher
Source:  US Patent 5,453,689
Doc ID:  1995021
Year of Publication:  1995
Abstract:  
Apparatus and methods are disclosed which provide increased sensitivity, selectivity and dynamci range for non-contact measurement of actual physical and/or kinematic properties of conducting and magnetic materials. The apparatus and methods are based uypon various methods for increasing sinsitivity, selectivity and dynamic range through proper construction of a magnetometer sensor and for proper selection of operating point parameters for the application. A measurement apparatus for measuring one or more MUT properties includes an electromagnetic winding structure which, when driven by an electric signal, imposes a magnetic field in the MUT and senses an electromagnetic response. An analyzer is provided for applying the electric signal to the winding structure. A property estimator is coupled to the winding structure and translates sensed electromagnetic responses into estimates of one or more preselected properties of the material.