Abstract: Methods and apparatus for forming devices including dead-ends and insulator ties from flat and other strips of material, as well as the devices themselves, are disclosed. Components of these devices may be formed continuously from a single strip, avoiding the need to weld or clamp the components together. Forming the devices in this manner reduces the possibility of stresses or non-uniformities forming when the components are joined and permits continuous automatic or semiautomatic manufacture to occur.

Abstract: An easily-installable support capable of accommodating a wide variety of fiber optic cables is disclosed. The fiber optic cable support uses a one-piece, variable diameter mechanism for cushioning and spacing the supported cable. The support is also contoured to increase the surface area available to contact a utility pole or other structure and includes one or more cleats or gains which provide additional contact strength by biting into and gripping wooden or similar poles. The support is designed to provide approximately constant compressive pressure to the supported sections of a length of cable and sufficient pressure to avoid the need to apply grit or other loose friction-increasing substances to the cushion interior. Because it is of relatively constant or slowly varying cross-section, the support can be die formed with minimal disruption of the fluid flow within the die.

Abstract: A method of determining the stiffness and condition on a wooden structure. The method consists of initiating the natural vibration of the structure in a band of frequencies that cover at least two of the first five resonant modes of vibration. An electrical response equivalent to the vibration motion of the structure is generated and the electrical response is converted to a digital signal. The resonant frequency of the structure is calculated by analysing the digital signal. By comparing the results with the results obtained using a mathematical model the stiffness and condition of the structure is determined.