Abstract: A system for ascertaining operational status of an electrically-actuated valve comprises a valve-diagnostic device, which comprises: a mechanical sensor for detecting movement of a movable part of the electrically-actuated valve relative to a stationary part and outputting a mechanical sensor signal; and an electrical sensor for detecting an electrical characteristic associated with the operation of the electrically-actuated valve and outputting an electrical sensor signal. The system also comprises a data analyzer connected to the valve-diagnostic device to receive the mechanical sensor signal and the electrical sensor signal, and configured to display a corresponding output.

Abstract: Foundation systems and methods using in-situ shaped pile-anchors that are particularly adapted for use in aquatic environments. The shaped pile-anchor of the invented foundation includes a concrete filled tubular metal casing, the bottom end of which is positioned at a predetermined depth in the ground (e.g., aquatic-floor soil) and the top end of which protrudes above the water or soil surface. Concrete fills the inside the metal casing, substantially all the way to the top end of the casing, forming an upper portion of a concrete column. The lower portion of the concrete column extends down below the bottom end of the metal casing and further into the ground. The lower portion is shaped to have a cross-section greater than the cross-section of the upper portion, which equals to the inner diameter of the tubular metal casing. A platform is coupled to one of more of the shaped pile-anchors to support a structure above.

Abstract: Foundation systems and methods using in-situ shaped pile-anchors that are particularly adapted for use in aquatic environments. The shaped pile-anchor of the invented foundation includes a concrete filled tubular metal casing, the bottom end of which is positioned at a predetermined depth in the ground (e.g., aquatic-floor soil) and the top end of which protrudes above the water or soil surface. Concrete fills the inside the metal casing, substantially all the way to the top end of the casing, forming an upper portion of a concrete column. The lower portion of the concrete column extends down below the bottom end of the metal casing and further into the ground. The lower portion is shaped to have a cross-section greater than the cross-section of the upper portion, which equals to the inner diameter of the tubular metal casing. A platform is coupled to one of more of the shaped pile-anchors to support a structure above.