Abstract: A method for selecting conifer trees is disclosed. This method relates to the early measurement of tree characteristics for selecting trees most likely to exhibit certain traits as they mature. This method can be used for implementing silvicultural treatments, thinning or further breeding.

Abstract: A distributed lightning detection system comprises a plurality of lightning detection stations located at different positions with respect to a common frame of reference with the position of at least one detection station being mobile with respect to the common frame of reference. Each station includes a lightning strike detector, first and second receivers, a processor, and a transmitter. The first receiver receives signals from at least one common transmitting system, preferably the GPS system, for establishing a common lightning position and occurrence time frame of references for all of the stations. The processor is governed by a strike indication signal generated by the detector and determines the time of occurrence of the detected lightning strike and the station's own position corresponding thereto.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a plastic electrical insulator having a fiberglass-reinforced plastic core rod and a plurality of insulator discs disposed thereon. The insulator discs are formed of a plastic molding compound which is especially suited for outdoor use. In accordance with the invention, the insulator rod is disposed in, and passes through, a mold which, when closed, is filled with the plastic molding compound for forming the insulator discs. The separation plane of the mold is situated near the outermost edge of each disc. Subsequent insulator discs are individually formed so as to partially overlap a previously molded insulator disc.

Abstract: Plastic insulators with protective screens for indoor and outdoor use, especially support and suspension insulators are manufactured by injection molding or transfer molding, using granulated or paste-like molding compounds (rigid or flexible adjustment) on the basis of unsaturated polyester or epoxy resins, heterocyclic polyurethane resins, polypropylene (PP), ethylene-propylene monomer rubber (EPM), ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber (EPDM), synthetic rubber, silicone rubber and others. The fabrication can be carried out through one-part or multiple-part injection.