Abstract: An invention is provided for monitoring an item, such as a container. The invention includes a computer in communication with a receiver that receives signals from a remote source. A transmitter in communication with the computer receives values from the computer based on the signals received from the remote source. These values are then transmitted to a security device associated with the item, which includes an authentication table comprising a plurality of initial values. The security device then records values transmitted from the transmitter. The values can be jitter values, with each jitter value being a difference in arrival times of at least two timing signals from the same remote source.

Abstract: A structural system includes a plurality of structural elements. Each of the elements includes an interior layer, an exterior layer, and an insulating layer lies between the interior layer and the exterior layer. The structural elements are stacked adjacent one another to form a wall. A respective cushion is placed between adjacent structural elements. The cushions create airspaces such that there is no direct surface contact between adjacent structural elements. The exterior layers of the structural elements can be fabricated from cast concrete material, and can be provided with simulative exterior surfaces, for example, with exterior surfaces simulating the appearance of structural logs.

Abstract: A structural system includes a plurality of structural elements. Each of the elements includes an interior layer, an exterior layer, and an insulating layer between the interior layer and the exterior layer. The structural elements are stacked adjacent to one another to form a wall. A respective cushion is placed between adjacent structural elements. The cushions create airspaces such that there is no direct surface contact between adjacent structural elements. The exterior layers of the structural elements can be fabricated from cast concrete material, and can be provided with simulative exterior surfaces, for example, with exterior surfaces simulating the appearance of structural logs.

Abstract: A structural system includes a plurality of pre-cast structural elements. Each of the elements includes an interior layer, and an exterior layer cast of a cementitious material, an insulating layer lies between the interior layer and the exterior layer. The pre-cast structural elements are stacked adjacent one another to form a wall. A respective cushion is placed between adjacent structural elements. The cushions create airspaces such that there is no direct surface contact between adjacent structural elements. Poured grout sleeves tie one structural element to another creating a structural composite. Grout from the sleeves form bearing pads between adjacent elements and allow for load transfer within the structural composite. The exterior layers of the structural elements can be provided with simulative exterior surfaces, for example, with exterior surfaces simulating the appearance of structural logs.

Abstract: A structural system includes a plurality of structural elements. Each of the elements includes an interior layer, an exterior layer, and an insulating layer between the interior layer and the exterior layer. The structural elements are stacked adjacent to one another to form a wall. A respective cushion is placed between adjacent structural elements. The cushions create airspaces such that there is no direct surface contact between adjacent structural elements. The exterior layers of the structural elements can be fabricated from cast concrete material, and can be provided with simulative exterior surfaces, for example, with exterior surfaces simulating the appearance of structural logs.