Abstract: A system and method facilitates transfers of specimen containers (e.g., vials with caps) between storage cassettes and carrier cassettes. The storage cassettes are designed to be stored in cryogenic refrigerators while the carrier cassettes are designed to be temporarily stored in a portable carrier. A workstation includes a well and removable buckets positioned in the well. The buckets are sized to hold the storage cassettes and carrier cassettes. One or more arrays of antennas underlie the well to allow interrogation of wireless transponders carried by the specimen containers. Improved storage cassettes and carrier cassettes are also described.

Abstract: A system and method for complying with business procedures and tracking, for auditing purposes that the procedures are completed is disclosed. Specifically, the system is useful for tracking compliance with the Tanker Management and Self Assessment (TMSA) guidelines of the OCIMF, which deals with assessment of management and safety procedures for oil tankers. The system and method utilize both shore-based and ship-based computers which are synchronized when the ship-based computers are able to connect to the internet.

Abstract: An improved variable reluctance speed sensor configuration yields increased signal strength for a given sensor element diameter and/or sensor-to-speed wheel spacing. The improved sensor according to various embodiments of the invention comprises a plurality of passages containing pole pieces. The surface of the housing facing the speed wheel has thereon one or more projections. This sensor housing configuration concentrates magnetic flux in the housing when the speed wheel teeth are not aligned with the pole pieces. In particular, the projections act as flux concentrators, increasing the flux differential in the pole pieces as the speed wheel teeth pass the sensor.

Abstract: An improved variable reluctance speed sensor configuration yields increased signal strength for a given sensor element diameter and/or sensor-to-speed wheel spacing. The improved sensor according to various embodiments of the invention comprises a plurality of passages containing pole pieces. The surface of the housing facing the speed wheel has thereon one or more projections. This sensor housing configuration concentrates magnetic flux in the housing when the speed wheel teeth are not aligned with the pole pieces. In particular, the projections act as flux concentrators, increasing the flux differential in the pole pieces as the speed wheel teeth pass the sensor.