Abstract: A computer-implemented method of analyzing a workflow is provided. The method can include generating a multi-stage workflow representation corresponding to a physical process, the representation defining for each stage of the workflow at least one activity performed during the process. The method also can include associating at least one activity-based cost with each activity performed during the process, and estimating a distribution of costs over the stages of the workflow based on cost data generated by repeated execution of the process. The method can further include determining, based upon the estimated distribution of costs, whether a cost imbalance is associated with at least one stage of the workflow.

Abstract: Methods and systems for obtaining a value indicative of resource-related activity in respect of a plurality of devices using a network of metering means arranged to be in communication with one another, the metering means being associated with resource-consuming or resource-providing devices and being arranged to obtain local resource-related activity data therefrom, the method comprising: a first metering means initiating a circulation procedure by sending a token to a downstream metering means, the token comprising an activity field for carrying a value indicative of resource-related activity data; the circulation procedure continuing, until the token has returned to the first metering means, by each downstream metering means in turn receiving the token, updating the activity field in dependence on its own locally-obtained resource-related activity data, and forwarding the token to a further downstream metering means; and once the token has returned to the first metering means, obtaining a value indicative

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for tracking and auditing shipment items are provided by capturing video of the shipment items handled in a facility. In certain embodiments, tracking devices are disclosed that can be integrated in a platform for material handling vehicle and manufacturing systems. In certain embodiments, tracking devices can provide tracking and auditing of shipment items by using a method of capturing video of shipment items as they are being handled. In certain embodiments, tracking devices can be coupled to video cameras. The video to be captured may be determined based on the information collected and/or commands received in relation to the items. In some embodiments, the method can create metadata and associate video and item information for shipment items handled in a facility. The video and metadata can be accessed through a communication network at a later time for tracking, auditing and other purposes.

Abstract: The system and method of the invention describes a unique and simplified design for Hotel Central Reservations Systems that reduces cost and response time by factors of 2 to 10 times. The system accepts ARI information from Property Management Systems and services availability requests from external sources such as Global Distribution Systems or Online Travel Agencies, and proprietary web sites or call centers. The system provides for complete generality with respect to room types and rate management by hotel and by day, for an arbitrary number of room types and for an arbitrary number of days in the future, for specific rates for each room type, each day. The system of the invention can be implemented as a web service, a service appliance, or as a separate software product that would integrate with an existing HCRS. The system could also be used by rental car or airline CRSs.

Abstract: Systems and methods for self service vending of electric convenience vehicles (ECVs) are disclosed. Various embodiments of the systems and methods disclosed herein allow convenient rental of ECVs to visitors of large venues without requiring dedicated service personnel. In one embodiment, a self service vending system may include a charging station configured to charge an ECV, a locking mechanism configured to lock the ECV, and a terminal configured to process a reservation of the ECV and to provide a code for operating the ECV based on the reservation. In some embodiments, a self service vending system may include a docking station. Embodiments may further include a reservation management system. Computer systems implementing methods of self service vending of ECVs are also disclosed.

Abstract: An approach is provided for secured mobile printing. A printing platform receives a printing request, generates authenticating information associated with the print request, and sends the authenticating information to a mobile device for retrieval of printed materials generated in response to the printing request.

Abstract: Method for determining toll fees for vehicles in a road toll system including vehicle-onboard units and positionally distributed beacons capable of communicating with the onboard units via radio signals. The method includes: providing a toll fee level and a validity time frame; retrieving an identifier of the onboard unit, the toll fee level and the validity time frame from the onboard unit as a data record; resetting the toll fee level, if the validity time frame has expired; increasing the toll fee level and storing the updated data record in the onboard unit and the beacon; transmitting a request for deletion of stored data records for this identifier to other beacons; transmitting the data record from the beacon to the central station, if no deletion request for the data record arrives within the validity time frame; and deleting the data record in the beacon.

Abstract: A system, method and computer program product for managing the quality of service differentiated cloud storage. The cloud storage (and its services) is highly distributed. An overall speed of the storage is calculated based on storage speed and a traffic speed of the connection to the particular cloud storage. Data access expenses are calculated. Then, for each of the portions of the cloud storage the associated speed and traffic costs are calculated, so the user can select a level of data access guarantee (DAG) for his particular needs. In order to maintain the desired overall speed of the data access, geo-targeting with the cloud storage system is implemented, where the same data is retrieved from different locations based on optimal data movement costs.