Abstract: An apparatus and method for identifying the presence of high conductivity or permittivity conditions in a wide range of electrically insulating materials is disclosed. The apparatus includes a grounded enclosure containing electronics for controlling measurement and communication processes and first and second spaced-apart electrode assemblies for engaging an insulator to be tested. The first and second electrode assemblies are mounted in the enclosure for linear movement such that pressing of the first and second electrodes against an insulator causes the electronics to initiate a measurement.

Abstract: An inspection apparatus for inspecting high voltage insulators is disclosed. The inspection apparatus includes a first platform having first and second linkages, at least one outer gripping mechanism having first and second arms extending outwardly from the first platform, a second slidable platform adapted to slide along the first and second linkages, and at least one inner gripping mechanism having third and fourth arms extending outwardly from the second slidable platform. The outer and inner gripping mechanisms are adapted to move between an open position where the insulator is received by the outer and inner gripping mechanisms and a closed position where the outer and inner gripping mechanisms engage the insulator.

Abstract: An overhead conductor sensor for measuring various parameters that affect an overhead conductor is disclosed. The overhead conductor sensor includes an electronics housing having first and second opposing ends, a jaw assembly having a first jaw connected to the first end of the electronics housing and a second jaw pivotally attached to the first jaw to allow the jaw assembly to move between an open position for receiving an overhead conductor therein and a closed position for securing the sensor to the overhead conductor, and a thermocouple assembly electrically connected to electronics housed in the electronics housing and extending through the jaw assembly for engagement with the overhead conductor. The thermocouple assembly is adapted to measure a temperature of the overhead conductor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compounds and processes for preparing compounds of Formula (I), including compounds such as trans-7-oxo-6-(sulphooxy)-1,6-diazabicyclo[3,2,1]octane-2-carboxamide and salts thereof (e.g., NXL-104).

Abstract: An underground utility vault inspection system and method includes a pre-defined railway installed in an underground utility vault, and an inspection vehicle adapted to traverse the railway to provide inspection results to inspection personnel. The inspection vehicle includes inspection tools for inspecting underground power lines and equipment, recording inspection results, and transmitting the inspection results to the inspection personnel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an overhead transmission line inspection robot and system for inspecting transmission line components and right of way conditions. The line inspection robot includes at least one drive system for propelling the robot along a line, a platform adapted to pivot relative to the at least one drive system, and a control system adapted to control the robot.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a diverter system to allow a line inspection robot to traverse an object. The diverter system includes a first diverter attached to a shield wire, a second diverter attached to the shield wire at a position spaced from the first diverter, and a bridge having a first end connected to the first diverter and a second end connected to the second diverter. The first diverter disengages the robot from the shield wire and onto the bridge and the second diverter disengages the robot from the bridge and onto the shield wire to allow the robot to traverse the object.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an overhead transmission line inspection robot and system for inspecting transmission line components and right of way conditions. The overhead transmission line inspection robot includes a communications and control system adapted to control the robot and transmit information and a drive system for propelling the robot along a shield wire to enable inspection over a large area. The robot further includes a camera adapted to inspect right of way and component conditions; a light detection and ranging (LiDar) sensor adapted to measure conductor position, vegetation, and nearby structures; and a global positioning system adapted to identify the robot's position and speed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting the presence of high conductivity or permittivity conditions in electrically insulating materials, including a first electrode and a second electrode for being placed in spaced-apart relation on an insulator to be tested for a high conductivity or permittivity condition, and a high voltage source for energizing the first electrode and second electrode at different potentials. At least one gas gap is positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode and proximate a surface of the insulator; and a detector determines the level of ionization of the at least one gas gap while the electrodes are energized.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting the presence of high conductivity or permittivity conditions in electrically insulating materials, including a first electrode and a second electrode for being placed in spaced-apart relation on an insulator to be tested for a high conductivity or permittivity condition, and a high voltage source for energizing the first electrode and second electrode at different potentials. At least one gas gap is positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode and proximate a surface of the insulator; and a detector determines the level of ionization of the at least one gas gap while the electrodes are energized.

Abstract: A non-ceramic insulator for high voltage electrical conductors is designed using a combination of materials to form the outermost surface of the insulator. The non-ceramic insulator includes a support structure and one or more weather sheds. The surface characteristics are chosen to give the insulator good contamination and flashover performance while preventing the aging due to corona activity caused by water drops. Also, the weather shed spacing is varied according to the strength of the local electric field. Old non-ceramic insulators are retrofitted to create a combination of aging resistant and hydrophobic surfaces.