A novel approach for a high-precision multitarget-level measurement system based on time-domain reflectometry

A novel approach for a high-precision multitarget time-domain reflectometry (TDR) level measurement system is presented with a greatly improved performance. It fulfills the growing needs of today's industrial level measurement applications. Starting with the well-known concept of the TDR, a novel concept for frequency stabilization and pulse generation lead to a higher performance compared to conventional industrial systems with respect to their precision, resolution, and dynamic range. This paper focuses on the-description of the improved signal generation unit, comprising the generation of two RF signals with a small frequency offset and a good phase-noise performance and the generation of short electromagnetic pulses, optimized for the detection of thin interface layers. To determine the stability, resolution, and dynamic range of the improved TDR system, a prototype system is presented.