Check weighing apparatus and method

摘要

A check weighing system is provided which can check weigh samples (1) on a production line. The check weighing system comprises a magnet (13) for creating a static magnetic field over an interrogation zone for creating a net magnetisation within a sample (1) located within the interrogation zone and an RF coil for applying an alternating magnetic field over the interrogation zone for causing excitation of the sample (1) within the interrogation zone according to the principles of NMR. The check weighing system also comprises a sensor for sensing the energy emitted as the sample relaxes back to an equilibrium state after excitation as the samples pass through the interrogation zone on a conveyor belt (9) forming part of the production line. The sensed signal from the sample (1) is then compared with calibration data which is obtained for at least one similar sample of known mass, which calibration data relates the mass of the similar sample to the corresponding signal output by the sensor, to provide the indication of the mass of the sample.