Abstract: A system for conducting a computer-based, simultaneous, multiple round, descending clock auction for basic generation services includes a web server for receiving bid data for one or more users for basic generation service products, an application server host application software, which processes the one or more bids according to at least one auction rule, tracks the auction, monitors the auction, and/or determines when to end the auction, and a database server, which stores auction data. A method of conducting a computer-based, simultaneous, multiple round, descending clock auction for basic generation services includes the repeating steps of receiving bids indicating desired tranche units of basic generation service products, calculating next round prices for each product, and sending round results to bidders. The system for and method of conducting a computer-based auction includes receiving and processing a withdrawal request or a switch request from at least one of the qualified bidders.

Abstract: A system for conducting a computer-based, simultaneous, multiple round, descending clock auction for basic generation services includes a web server for receiving bid data for one or more users for basic generation service products, an application server host application software, which processes the one or more bids according to at least one auction rule, tracks the auction, monitors the auction, and/or determines when to end the auction, and a database server, which stores auction data. A method of conducting a computer-based, simultaneous, multiple round, descending clock auction for basic generation services includes the repeating steps of receiving bids indicating desired tranche units of basic generation service products, calculating next round prices for each product, and sending round results to bidders.

Abstract: A system for conducting a computer-based, simultaneous, multiple round, descending clock auction for basic generation services includes a web server for receiving bid data for one or more users for basic generation service products, an application server host application software, which processes the one or more bids according to at least one auction rule, tracks the auction, monitors the auction, and/or determines when to end the auction, and a database server, which stores auction data. A method of conducting a computer-based, simultaneous, multiple round, descending clock auction for basic generation services includes the repeating steps of receiving bids indicating desired tranche units of basic generation service products, calculating next round prices for each product, and sending round results to bidders.

Abstract: A system for conducting a computer-based, simultaneous, multiple round, descending clock auction for basic generation services includes a web server for receiving bid data for one or more users for basic generation service products, an application server host application software, which processes the one or more bids according to at least one auction rule, tracks the auction, monitors the auction, and/or determines when to end the auction, and a database server, which stores auction data. A method of conducting a computer-based, simultaneous, multiple round, descending clock auction for basic generation services includes the repeating steps of receiving bids indicating desired tranche units of basic generation service products, calculating next round prices for each product, and sending round results to bidders. The system for and method of conducting a computer-based auction includes limiting the qualified bidders by a load cap to a maximum number of tranches bid during a round.

Abstract: A system for conducting a computer-based, simultaneous, multiple round, descending clock auction for basic generation services includes a web server for receiving bid data for one or more users for basic generation service products, an application server host application software, which processes the one or more bids according to at least one auction rule, tracks the auction, monitors the auction, and/or determines when to end the auction, and a database server, which stores auction data. A method of conducting a computer-based, simultaneous, multiple round, descending clock auction for basic generation services includes the repeating steps of receiving bids indicating desired tranche units of basic generation service products, calculating next round prices for each product, and sending round results to bidders.

Abstract: A method for designing and validating a portable protective air gap (PPAG) device for use by workmen doing live-line maintenance on a electrical voltage transmission line network. The method sets out the procedure for optimizing the starting gap distance for a particular PPAG to be used for a given nominal system voltage. Validation testing then follows to achieve final, recommended values. PPAG devices employing axially aligned, hemispherically tipped, first and second electrodes for use on 115/138 kV, 230 kV and 345 kV voltage networks are designed using the methodology of the invention.

Abstract: An adjustable cover for outdoor electrical substations is disclosed. The traditional metal cover for these installations is capped with length adjustable fiberglass reinforced plastic cover pieces. The cover pieces slide over one another in an interlocking relationship to accommodate the top surfaces of a variety of existing electrical substations. Once in place the covers are maintained in the same interlocking plane to the top surface of the substation with their cooperating flanges insuring positive prevention of weather related water damage to sensitive electrical components. End caps further enhance the degree of water damage protection.

Abstract: There is disclosed a device for measuring the magnetic field strengths associated with a.c. electrical currents over a protracted period of time and, as required, in hostile environments. A preferable application calls for the determination of the field strengths associated with electrical currents flowing in the a.c. power distribution lines of utilities. The device includes a monitoring instrument positioned in relation to the power lines to be monitored, typically at the base of a pole immediately adjacent the pole of the power line or on a power line supporting pole itself. In order to provide for long term, powering of the monitoring device, d.c. power is developed utilizing the a.c. power that is present. The conversion from a.c. to d.c. is effected at a distance sufficiently far from the monitoring instrument so as not to have any consequence on the readings that are being taken. Readings during the protracted period are typically stored and then accessable at pre-determined periods.

Abstract: There is disclosed a methodology for measuring the magnetic field strengths of fundamental and harmonic frequencies associated with a.c. electrical current flows over a protracted period of time; and, particularly, in hostile environments. A preferable application calls for the determination of the field strengths associated with electrical currents flowing in a.c. power, distribution lines of utilities. The monitoring instrument is positioned in relation to the power lines to be monitored, typically at the base of a pole immediately adjacent the pole of the power line or on a power line supporting pole itself. In order to provide for long term, powering of the monitoring device, d.c. power is developed utilizing the a.c. power that is present. The conversion from a.c. to d.c. is effected at a distance sufficiently far from the monitoring instrument so as not to have any consequence on the readings that are being taken.

Abstract: Closure apparatus for a high pressure vessel includes a closure member having a hemispherically concave interior and a stepped cylindrical exterior portion. The stepped cylindrical exterior portion is adapted to complement the cross-sectional shape of flanged sector blocks so that the sector blocks are lockingly engaged in a circumferential groove in an access opening of the high pressure vessel when the closure member is installed, thereby eliminating any requirement for a wedge ring support for the blocks. The present closure apparatus may be retrofitted into high pressure vessels already equipped with a much heavier flat plate closure. The present closure apparatus may be of the partial access type, an elliptical manway being provided in the closure member. Access through the manway allows periodic maintenance of the vessel interior without having to remove the heavy closure member.

Abstract: An improved method for the explosive expansion and welding of tubes to tube sheet includes trepanning the rear face of the tube sheet to form integral collars around each tube-receiving bore in the tube sheet. The collars prevent accumulation of corrosive material in a gap between the tube and tube sheet bore, and provide support to the tube wall when the tube is explosively expanded beyond the region of the tube surrounded by the collar.

Abstract: Sealing between an access opening in a pressure vessel and a closure member fitted in the opening is provided by an O-ring of perfluoroelastomer in an annular groove formed in a surface of the closure member. The sidewall of the groove on the low pressure side of the seal has a concave curvature in cross section so as to form a "hook" or lip which retains the O-ring in the groove and prevents creeping extrusion of the O-ring under prolonged exposure to high temperature and pressure fluid on the high pressure side of the seal, even with a clearance between the closure member and the access opening of up to approximately 1 percent of the diameter of the O-ring cross section.