Design and optimization of an open stripline resonator for rubber thickness gauging

A stripline resonator was designed, analyzed and optimized for production line gauging and monitoring of rubber thickness. The sensor is intended to gauge the thickness of rubber during production as it passes on a steel calendar or drum. The need for high accuracy, real time measurements and continuous coverage of the material necessitated a unique approach to the design including simulation and system development. The current work describes modeling, simulation and optimization of system parameters for an in-plant system designed for gauging purposes. The final production system will consist of a single open stripline resonator moving back and forth across the width of the dielectric sampling the material continuously. A network analyzer is used for monitoring of the system's resonant frequency because of its accuracy, ruggedness and because its interface allows continuous modifications, analysis and monitoring across the internet so that engineers can remotely monitor the production, the quality of the product and intervene as needed. A computer monitors the motion of the sensor across the fabric, marks the location of the sensor and records the output together with time signatures and material data for later reference. Optimization of various parameters - size, sensitivity, interference and others was carried out using FDTD simulation.