Abstract: Storage matrixes associated with storage and retrieval systems and methods are provided to automate the process of handling a mixed inventory of palletized and containerized items. In one embodiment, the storage matrix comprises a storage matrix comprising a plurality of stationary cell modules and a plurality of carriers. The outer row cell modules comprise a plurality of motors configured to move the respective carrier bi-directionally within the storage matrix and is also configured to stabilize the respective carrier when the carrier is moving or at a stationary position. The inner row cell modules comprise at least one motor configured to move the respective carriers uni-directionally within the storage matrix and also comprises at least one ferrous metal plate configured to stabilize the respective carrier when the carrier is moving or at a stationary position.

Abstract: A method of performing an impregnating treatment on a resin-containing wood substrate using a fluid comprising the steps of providing the wood substrate, contacting the wood substrate with said fluid, and maintaining contact between the wood substrate and the fluid for a time period sufficient to obtain the desired penetration wherein the fluid is a wood protectant with carbon dioxide added thereto.

Abstract: An absorption and redirection system for use with a vehicle including a first plurality of exterior air bag actuating units mounted at specified locations along at least one of front, sides and rear of the vehicle. A second plurality of interior air bag actuating units are mounted at specified locations along at least a front, sides and rear of a vehicle interior. An emitter/receptor is associated with each of the first plurality of exterior air bag actuating units and for identifying an approaching object. A processor is in operative communication with each of the first and second pluralities of air bag actuating units and, upon receipt of an input signal associated with at least one of the emitter/receptors, instructs the inflation of a given sub-plurality of air bags associated with each of the first and second bag pluralities of actuating units.

Abstract: An energy absorption, rotation and redirection system for use with a vehicle traveling astride a barrier, the vehicle including a front end with a bumper and first and second sides. The system includes a plurality of air bag actuating units mounted at specified locations along the front end and first and second sides of the vehicle. Preferably three air bag units are located at spaced intervals along the front bumper of the vehicle, with individual and additional air bags being located on the sides of the vehicle. An activator mechanism is associated with one or more of the actuating units for selectively instructing the inflation of an exterior air bag associated with the given bag actuating unit. The activator mechanism includes a reflective target strip applied along the barrier, as well as laser emitter/receptor units associated with each of the air bag actuating units.