Abstract: The present invention contributes to advancements in the art of inventory management and distribution by providing a system and method for processing, distributing, and tracking reusable inventory items. Reusable articles, such as surgical garments and accessories, are adapted with radio frequency identification (“RFID”) tags having unique identification numbers. A “reader” is used to retrieve stored information from the tags without requiring direct contact or clear line-of-sight. The reusable articles are processed and distributed using an inventory management system wherein lifecycle data is obtained for each reusable article. The reusable articles are distributed to the end users from central processing facilities, used, returned, cleaned, inspected, folded, sterilized, and returned to inventory for re-distribution. Periodic quality control inspections are conducted in response to predetermined usage parameters.

Abstract: A tree harvester assembly (5) has a pivoting tower (10) which secures the trunk (7) of the tree (8) and may pivot to impart a bending moment upon the tree (8), thereby permitting easier cutting by a chain saw (205). The tree harvester (5) also has a pivot chain saw guide (200) which permits the harvester (5) to cut trees on a hillside at an orientation parallel to the terrain of the hillside at a low stump height. The tree harvester (5) also has clamping arms (405, 410) which may be selectively pivoted to secure a tree (8) against the tower (10) and to selectively release the tree (8) in one direction or another. A chain saw pivoting and drive apparatus (600) permits the chain saw (205) to be pivoted about a desired range and simultaneously driven to perform a cutting operation.

Abstract: The present invention contributes to advancements in the art of inventory management and distribution by providing a system and method for processing, distributing, and tracking reusable inventory items. Reusable articles, such as surgical garments and accessories, are adapted with radio frequency identification (“RFID”) tags having unique identification numbers. A “reader” is used to retrieve stored information from the tags without requiring direct contact or clear line-of-sight. The reusable articles are processed and distributed using an inventory management system wherein lifecycle data is obtained for each reusable article. The reusable articles are distributed to the end users from central processing facilities, used, returned, cleaned, inspected, folded, sterilized, and returned to inventory for re-distribution. Periodic quality control inspections are conducted in response to predetermined usage parameters.