Abstract: A reduced weight packaging system for industrial equipment is provided. The packaging system includes a first module that defines a baseplate. A second module is superimposable on the baseplate. The second module defines an interior where the industrial equipment is to be housed during operation. At least a first portion of the first module is made from a wood-based material, such as mass timber, and the second module is made from the wood-based material. The packaging system may be designed to achieve at least the same strength ratings as non-wood materials like concrete and steel while maintaining a relatively lighter weight and reducing carbon emissions based on the reduced carbon footprint of wood-based construction materials compared to such non-wood materials.

Abstract: A protective cover apparatus designed to couple to a container to minimize abrasions, deformation and damage to the container due to impact forces generated from contact with an object is provided. The container includes a top open end continuously connected to a closed bottom end by a side wall. The protective cover apparatus includes an upper bumper disposed around the container proximate the top open end, and a lower bumper coupled to the bottom closed end of the container. The lower bumper has a base continuously connected to a side wall. The base of the lower bumper has a plurality of internal ridges in contact with the bottom closed end of the container. The internal ridges of the lower bumper are designed to deform to absorb and redirect the impact forces from contact with the object away from the container.

Abstract: A process and system for gathering and presenting confidential contract and publically filed tariff line item rates and surcharge data. Confidential contract information and public tariff information regarding individual shipments are received and saved in a database. The information is saved such that the details of each shipment are searchable. A request from a user is received at the database, wherein the request seeks rate information pertaining to shipping at least one of a specific commodity, a specific route, and using specific equipment. In response to the receipt of the request, the database is searched for records with applicable information. The located information can then be presented to the requesting user in aggregate form including the rates for a predefined time period up to the present time, whereby a requesting user can determine actual rates and trends for the rates for the predefined period.

Abstract: A test system is provided for simulating pre-tensioner systems that use pyrotechnic gas generators. In a preferred form, the test system includes a pneumatic cylinder energized by pressurized air from an accumulator and passing through a fast acting ball valve. A substantially linear relationship is established between accumulator pressure and the time rate of change of acceleration of a piston in the pneumatic cylinder. Use of the test system allows improved evaluation of seat belt systems employing pre-tensioners with pyrotechnic gas generators.

Abstract: A seat belt retractor that is sensitive to vehicle movements is provided, having a frame for mounting a reel about which the safety belt is wound. A frame also mounts a pawl which selectively blocks rotation of the reel to prevent payout of a seat belt when a predetermined condition of the vehicle is sensed. The frame includes a support plate integrally formed therewith and including a bearing seat for mounting an inertia member for actuating the pawl, thus locking the reel against rotation. A method of constructing the retractor frame with an integral support for the inertia member is also disclosed.