Abstract: A distribution system (100) is disclosed. The system includes the steps of: providing (105) a multi-level pathfinder with a containment cavity having a ground level cell and an elevated level cell; configuring (110) the containment cavity to receive containers; and loading (115) the containment cavity with a first container and moving the first container vertically to allow a second loading of a second container. This system provides a simple, robust and efficient automatable buffer to load and unload, a container between a chassis and rail or port terminal and/or at distribution hub.

Abstract: A distribution system (100) is disclosed. The system includes the steps of: providing (105) a multi-level pathfinder with a containment cavity having a ground level cell and an elevated level cell; configuring (110) the containment cavity to receive containers; and loading (115) the containment cavity with a first container and moving the first container vertically to allow a second loading of a second container. This system provides a simple, robust and efficient automatable buffer to load and unload, a container between a chassis and rail or port terminal and/or at distribution hub.

Abstract: A firefighting system including a helicopter and a housing defining a receptacle for storing a fire suppressant material removably connectable to the helicopter. At least one cannon connected to the housing where the cannon is automatically extendable from the housing. The helicopter transports the housing to a location of a fire. The cannon is extended from the housing and is operable to emit at least a portion of the fire suppressant material on a fire. The firefighting system may also include a housing sized to transport at least one person trapped by a fire from the building to a safe location.

Abstract: A method of providing passenger air travel comprises the following: an airline flight reservation is provided for a passenger, and, simultaneously, a reservation for pickup of the passenger's luggage at a location remote from the airport from which the flight originates, said pickup reservation also specifying a luggage destination. An airline flight is provided for the passenger from the airport to a pre-arranged airport destination. Transportation is also provided of the luggage by different transportation from the remote location to the luggage destination.