Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing communications between a mobile device and a machine are described. A mobile device wirelessly discovers a plurality of mobile machine identifiers (IDs) of a plurality of mobile machines, each machine adapted to wirelessly communicate attribute information about the first machine upon receipt of an authorization indication. The mobile device selects a first machine of the plurality of machines and sends a machine identifier (ID) obtained from the first machine to a server. The mobile device receives an authorization indication from the server that authorizes communication with the first machine. The mobile device sends the authorization indication to the first machine, and in response to sending the authorization indication, receives attribute information from the first machine.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing communications between a mobile device and a machine are described. A mobile device wirelessly discovers a plurality of mobile machine identifiers (IDs) of a plurality of mobile machines, each machine adapted to wirelessly communicate attribute information about the first machine upon receipt of an authorization indication. The mobile device selects a first machine of the plurality of machines and sends a machine identifier (ID) obtained from the first machine to a server. The mobile device receives an authorization indication from the server that authorizes communication with the first machine. The mobile device sends the authorization indication to the first machine, and in response to sending the authorization indication, receives attribute information from the first machine.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing communications between a mobile device and a machine. A mobile device wirelessly discovers a first machine that is adapted to wirelessly communicate attribute information about the first machine upon receipt of an authorization indication. The mobile device sends a machine identifier (ID) obtained from the first machine to a server. The mobile device receives an authorization indication from the server that authorizes communication with the first machine. The mobile device sends the authorization indication to the first machine, and in response to sending the authorization indication, receives attribute information from the first machine.

Abstract: A container unloading system that is adapted to automatically unload containers from carts while the containers and carts reside in an unloading station. The containers may be off-loaded onto a conveyor. The system includes a frame that is movable along the path of ingress/egress of the carts, and a vertically and horizontally movable lifting device that is supported on the frame and adapted to engage and lift the containers. A number of sensors may be present to gather information about the carts and/or containers and to send corresponding signals to a controller that is programmed to automatically operate the system.

Abstract: A container unloading system that is adapted to automatically unload containers from carts while the containers and carts reside in an unloading station. The containers may be off-loaded onto a conveyor. The system includes a frame that is movable along the path of ingress/egress of the carts, and a vertically and horizontally movable lifting device that is supported on the frame and adapted to engage and lift the containers. A number of sensors may be present to gather information about the carts and/or containers and to send corresponding signals to a controller that is programmed to automatically operate the system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing communications between a mobile device and a machine. A mobile device wirelessly discovers a first machine that is adapted to wirelessly communicate attribute information about the first machine upon receipt of an authorization indication. The mobile device sends a machine identifier (ID) obtained from the first machine to a server. The mobile device receives an authorization indication from the server that authorizes communication with the first machine. The mobile device sends the authorization indication to the first machine, and in response to sending the authorization indication, receives attribute information from the first machine.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments provide a grasping and lifting device for moving a plurality of different-sized containers. The device contains a set of clamps which securely attach to a plurality of different-sized containers and allow them to be quickly lifted and relocated by an operator. A toggle device may also be used to hold the clamps in the open position for added security and efficiency. A hoisting device with a translating mechanism provides lift and motion assistance to the operator so that the risk of repetitive motion injury is reduced.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments provide a grasping and lifting device for moving a plurality of different-sized containers. The dimensions of the grasping device do not have to be adjusted prior to engaging a container which allows an operator to move a variety of different-sized containers in a short period of time. A hoisting device with a counter weight provides lift and motion assistance to the operator so that the risk of repetitive motion injury is reduced.