Abstract: A system and method of monitoring a plurality of electrical assets comprise an electricity distribution infrastructure, including a plurality of electrical asset sensors coupled to the electrical assets for monitoring an operating condition of the electrical assets as well as any fault conditions. The sensors may include a current transformer for obtaining a current waveform, a GPS receiver for applying a synchronized time-stamp to the waveform data, and a mesh network radio for transmitting the time-stamped waveform data. Data from the plurality of sensors may be encrypted and transmitted over a mesh network to one or more gateways that are in communication with a central command processor. In response to an abnormal operating condition of any electrical asset, the central command processor may determine a probable fault location, a probable fault type, and a fault response.

Abstract: A power line distribution includes one or more impedance devices coupled to the neutral conductor of the power line distribution to segment the power line distribution for fault detection.

Abstract: A fault distance indicator (FDI), locates a fault in a power line by modeling pulses of reflected travelling wave signals which are generated from electrical arcs that occur as a result of the fault. Open loop power distribution circuits are arranged in two halves, each half comprising a circuit length from the overhead feed point to an open point with transformers and cable sections located along the circuit length. An FDI is inserted in each half of the loop. The FDI device monitors the circuit using an antenna which receives radio-frequency signals emitted by line faults and records the signatures of these faults. When the “trouble crew” arrives at the scene the recorded signature is downloaded to a portable PC via a radio, infra-red or other telemetry link. The downloaded data is analyzed first to generate a model of the reflected travelling wave signal and then parameters of the model are adjusted to minimize differences between the model and the actual data.

Abstract: A heavy duty weigh scale including a rectangular weighing platform constructed of parallel and spaced apart I-beams, which platform is carried above ground with at least one stand supporting an I-beam of the platform. The stand having a pair of spaced apart upright supports of approximately the same length for supporting a load cell. The weight of the platform and object being weighed being directed to the load cell through a weight-transfer link connected to the platform. The weight-transfer link being located in a cut-out opening provided in the web of the I-beam supported by the stand.

Abstract: A toilet system designed to use recycled "gray water". The toilet includes a toilet reservoir positioned above a toilet bowl with a first conduit connecting the reservoir with the bowl. A sinkable sphere, which acts as a discharge valve for the reservoir, seats on an inner surface of a cone-shaped, resilient valve seat positioned on top of the first conduit. A valve lifter is positioned below the sphere to selectively lift the sphere off the valve seat to open the reservoir valve and drain "gray water" into the bowl. The toilet bowl also has a bowl valve for releasing "black water" from the toilet bowl through a second conduit. Controls are provided to permit an operator to independently control both the "gray water" coming into the toilet bowl and the "black water" exiting the toilet bowl.