Abstract: The present invention includes tree crown volume measuring devices and measuring systems useful in determining the necessary amount of growth regulator product to be applied to trees near power lines. The present invention also includes measuring methods and processes using the devices of the present invention.

Abstract: A device and method for temporarily supporting and securing the cross-arm of a utility pole during operations that require a cross-arm retaining means to be loosened or removed. One exemplary embodiment of a support device of the present invention comprises an attachment member and a support member. The attachment member may be releasably secured to an upright post portion of the utility pole by means of, for example, a band clamp, or a fastener, such as a lag screw. The support member is designed to engage a portion of the cross-arm and secure it in position. Once secured, the necessary operation may be performed without the risk of the cross-arm tipping or falling. After the performance of the operation, the cross-arm retaining means is tightened or reinstalled, and the support device may be removed from the utility pole.

Abstract: The present invention is a non-invasive cable tester. The cable tester comprises a sensor for detecting an electric field emitted by a live electric cable. The resulting signal from the sensor is then filtered, amplified, and compared to a threshold value to determine the energization status of the electric cable. A meter can be provided to get a reading of the amplified signal that can be compared to a predetermined threshold value. Also, a detector circuit can be provided that includes a comparator in electrical communication with a light-emitting device such as a light-emitting diode. The detector circuit processes the amplified signal and compares it to a predetermined threshold value. If the electric cable is energized, the output of the comparator either causes the light-emitting device to emit light or not emit light, as desired. This enables an operator to determine the status of the electric cable simply by determining whether the light-emitting device is lit.

Abstract: A device and method for temporarily supporting and securing the cross-arm of a utility pole during operations that require the cross-arm retaining means to be loosened or removed. One exemplary embodiment of a support device of the present invention comprises an attachment member and a support member. The attachment member may be releasably secured to the upright post portion of the utility pole by means of, for example, a band clamp, or a fastener, such as a lag screw. The support member is designed to engage a portion of the cross-arm and secure it in position. Once secured, the necessary operation may be performed without the risk of the cross-arm tipping or falling. After the performance of the operation, the cross-arm retaining means is tightened or reinstalled, and the support device may be removed from the utility pole.

Abstract: A large scale, capacitor-based electrical energy storage and distribution system capable of effectuating load-leveling during periods of peak demand on a utility. A capacitor or multitude of capacitors may be charged with electrical energy produced by the utility during periods of low demand, such as the evening hours, and discharged during periods of high electrical energy consumption to help reduce demand on the utility. One or more capacitors may be located at a consumer's residence or business for providing at least a portion of the consumer's electrical power requirements. Alternatively, a farm of capacitors may be provided at or near a utility, or at or near a location experiencing high demand, such that electrical energy stored in the capacitors can be discharged into the utility's distribution grid to increase the amount of electrical energy available for use.