Abstract: A mechanism and method for making status reporting devices for container handlers, including: providing a micro-controller module, and installing a program system into memory accessed by a computer directing the micro-controller module. The micro-controller module communicatively couples with means for wirelessly communicating and for sensing a state of the container handler. Means for wirelessly communicating may include means for wirelessly determining container handler location. The micro-controller module may be communicatively coupled to a separate means for determining location. An apparatus making the devices may include a second program system directing the invention's method through a second computer, which may control an assembly device in creating the micro-controller, coupled with the means for sensing and for wirelessly communicating.

Abstract: The present invention is an improvement over existing walking canes to be used by people with physical impairments that require them to have additional support while walking. The present invention provides a means by which an imbalance in the weight distribution among the multiple legs of the cane is sensed and transmitted to the user. The walking cane with sensors comprises a handle, a vertical shaft and multiple legs or feet. Each of the legs is equipped with electronic stress or load sensors which are coupled to an electronic processing module. The processing module evaluates the input from the cane legs and activates a warning to the user in the event that the load sensors on the legs detect a load distribution indicative of an approaching unstable situation. The user can then stop and probe with the cane until a stable position is found.