Abstract: In some implementations, a system for tracking orders in a supply chain includes one or more processors; and computer-readable memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processors, cause the processors to perform operations including receiving a request for an order metric for an order, wherein the order includes a plurality of items being distributed to a plurality of destination locations across a plurality of loads. The operations can further include identifying (i) inventory readiness dates for the items in the order and (ii) the loads transporting the items to their respective destination locations, wherein the inventory readiness dates specify predetermined first calendar dates on which the items are scheduled to be ready for distribution from the corresponding destination locations. The operations can further include outputting the order metric, wherein the order metric provides an aggregate view of the order's status across the plurality of loads transporting the items.

Abstract: An inventory readiness date is received that specifies a first calendar date on which an order of items should be ready at each items' respective destination location. For each item of the order, an arrival date before the readiness date is determined, the arrival date specifying a second calendar date on which the item should arrive at the item's respective destination location. A departure date before the arrival date is determined, the departure date specifying a third calendar date on which the item should depart the item's respective source location. For each item of the order, an inventory readiness metric is determined based on the item's travel based on tracking data for the item as the item travels from the item's respective source location to the respective destination location.

Abstract: A reusable, inflatable zone packing pad comprised of multi-chambered pad formed of first and second outer film layers, and having two or four discrete inflatable zones, wherein each zone is further comprised of a plurality of inflatable chambers, preferably conical in shape. The multi-chamber design facilitates absorption of impact upon the pad by permitting redistribution of an inflation gas, e.g., air, from an area of impact to a non-impacted area within the same zone. The flow of inflation gas into and/or out of the pad is controlled by an entry/exit passageway tube for each separate zone.

Abstract: A system for an individual bulb timing assembly for providing direct bulb timed on-off sequencing. A timing assembly that is installed directly into an electrical fixture bulb socket, that provides electrical power to an individual timing assembly, allowing each bulb directly controlled by a timing assembly to be preprogrammed, enabling timed sequence events at the bulb for selected electrical lighting fixtures. The timing assembly receives electrical power that has moved through the select fixture, the invention positioned after the power is through the fixture provides for operation independent of the kind and type of power source, delivery line to the fixture, and the kind and type of switching device controlling the select fixture. The system is programmable at the attached controlled bulb for two timed events in a twenty four hour period. Programmed event timing is protected by the timing assembly's onboard energy storage cell.

Abstract: Snap Valve with Shipping Pad provides a reusable inflatable packaging system. The Snap Valve is a simple valve frame with a gate film that allows airflow through the valve frame and an air chamber that allows the connection of several valve frames to create an exceptionally secure valve in a simple and efficient design. This system allows the shipping pad to be inflated to accommodate a range of fill sizes with the same pad design.

Abstract: 1-Alkyl derivatives of 3-aryloxy-4-(2-carbalkoxy)-phenyl-azet-2-ones of the formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 is methyl or ethyl; R.sub.2 is lower alkyl; and X.sub.1 and X.sub.2 are independently hydrogen or halogen, are effective as plant growth regulators.

Abstract: 1-Alkyl derivatives of 3-aryloxy-4-(2-carbalkoxy)-phenyl-azet-2-ones of the formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 is methyl or ethyl; R.sub.2 is lower alkyl; and X.sub.1 and X.sub.2 are independently hydrogen or halogen, are effective as plant growth regulators.

Abstract: A pipe transporting vehicle steps into a pipe, passes through the pipe, and exits at the opposite end to bring into the inside of the pipe a pipe carriage. The vehicle has a stepper assembly of a stanchion, a walking beam pivotally connected to the stanchion, an axle set at each end of the walking beam, and a support structure in telescopic receipt of the stanchion. Trunnions and gudgeons between the beam and axle sets permit oscillation of each axle set about a fore-and-aft axis of the stepper independently of the other to accommodate irregularities in the path of the vehicle transverse to the line of vehicle movement. The walking beam pivots through a large angle for the stepping function of the wheels and to accommodate irregularities in line of motion of the wheels. A sleeve of the support structure telescopically receives the stanchion. Vertical loads from the carriage of the vehicle and pipe are taken by the sleeve and transferred to the stanchion through elastomeric shock absorbers.