News editors obtained the following quote from the background information suppli ed by the inventors:““Embodiments of the invention relate to wire tensioning systems. More specifical ly, embodiments ofthe invention relate to wire tensioning systems adapted for e lectrical utility applications.“Typically, a lineman uses a ratchet strap and clamp to tension an electrical ca ble in order to replaceor remove a dead-end insulator. This process involves ap plying a tensioning force to the electrical cablesuch that the dead-end insulat or may be removed without accidentally letting the live powerline fall outof co ntrol of the lineman. In current systems, preventing this from occurring is achi eved with a series ofclamps and ratchet straps. The ratchet strap is connected to a utility pole and held fast while the clamp isattached to an electrical cab le. The ratchet strap is then tightened to tension the electrical cable. These ratchet straps and clamps require skill to handle and often require more dexterit y than two hands provide.In some cases, remotely operated equipment controlled by an operator may be elevated to the electricalcable instead of a lineman. The remotely operated equipment removes the lineman from the work area.However, ex isting ratchet systems are not suitable for use by remotely operated equipment. They possessthe same lack of dexterity that linemen possess when using the ratc het straps and clamps to tension theelectrical cable.”
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