Abstract: Systems and methods of monitoring a characteristic of a waste container operation via a sensor node co-located with a waste container are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a method performed by a first network node comprises receiving, by the first network node, from the sensor node, an image representing a perspective view of an interior of the container, the first network node being operable to estimate an available capacity of the container to hold waste based on that image so that a second network node is operable to schedule a task associated with the available capacity of the container, with the image being obtained by an optical sensor operationally coupled to the sensor node, with the sensor being disposed on a side or corner of the container and having a viewing angle towards an opposite side or corner of the container.

Abstract: A truss assembly machine includes an elongated table for supporting truss members, including a plurality of wood members and a plurality of connector plates, and a pressing roller mounted for rotation about its own axis on a movable gantry above the support table. The gantry transports the roller longitudinally along the table for engaging the connector plates to embed the plates into the wood members and form the completed truss. A hydraulic cylinder with a hydraulically actuated piston carried therein is coupled to each end of the roller for selectively lifting and lowering the roller.

Abstract: A plurality of wood truss members and metal connector plates are assembled on a relatively flat conveyor surface and are transported to a first pressing station having two pairs of pressing rollers for partially embedding the connector plates into the wood members. The truss is then moved to a second pressing station having another pair of pressing rollers, where the plates are substantially completely embedded into the wood members. All of the rollers have substantially the same diameter and preferably have a diameter of at least ten inches to reduce the "rocking action" on the ends of the plates, particularly during the initial stages of the pressing operation. A plurality of guide rails are disposed beneath the conveyor surface for journally supporting the conveyor surface and the truss.