Abstract: Energy converters are monitored to ensure that they are operating at acceptable levels. An expected output is predicted using mathematical modeling and compared to the actual output generated by the energy converter. When the difference is above a predetermined threshold, the level of underperformance, along with other parameters, are used to determine a possible cause of underperformance and actions that can be taken to increase the output to acceptable levels. The cause and actions are transmitted to personnel, who are dispatched to service the underperforming energy converter. By centrally locating the mathematical modeling, monitoring, and dispatching, multiple PV modules can be managed from a remote location. When monitoring photovoltaic modules, an irradiation sensor employs multiple photosensors oriented to detect not only the normal components of sunlight but also directional, diffused components of sunlight, thereby increasing the accuracy of the mathematical modeling.

Abstract: A flexible, surface electromyographic electrode apparatus is provided for use on a surface of biological tissue to measure bio-electric signals thereof. The electrode apparatus includes a conductive signal electrode device having a signal contact adapted to directly contact the surface of the biological tissue, and a signal transmission portion electrically coupled to the signal contact. A conductive ground electrode device of the electrode apparatus includes a ground contact that is adapted directly contact the surface of the biological tissue. A ground transmission portion of the ground electrode device is electrically coupled to the ground contact. The ground contact is disposed substantially about the signal contact so as to substantially surround a peripheral edge of the signal contact when both are in contact with the tissue surface. An insulation washer device is further disposed between the signal contact and the ground contact to substantially prevent conductive contact therebetween.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for use on a surface of biological tissue to measure bio-electric signals including an electrode apparatus having an electrode device adapted to directly contact the surface of the biological tissue. The electrode apparatus receives and transmits bio-electric signals measured across the biological tissue having a first voltage and a minute first current. A signal transmission line is included having a signal transmission conductor electrically coupled at one portion to the electrode device for transmission of the bio-electric signals. The transmission includes a second conductor electrically coupled to the amplifier apparatus and arranged to substantially shield the transmission conductor from ambient electric fields generated from sources external to the transmission line. A high impedance amplifier device is included having a signal input and a signal output.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for use on a surface of biological tissue to measure bio-electric signals including an electrode apparatus having an electrode device adapted to directly contact the surface of the biological tissue. The electrode apparatus receives and transmits bio-electric signals measured across the biological tissue having a first voltage and a minute first current. A signal transmission line is included having a signal transmission conductor electrically coupled at one portion to the electrode device for transmission of the bio-electric signals. The transmission includes a second conductor electrically coupled to the amplifier apparatus and arranged to substantially shield the transmission conductor from ambient electric fields generated from sources external to the transmission line. A high impedance amplifier device is included having a signal input and a signal output.