Abstract: A self-inventorying tool container for a construction job site includes a tools container structure. The tool container structure includes an enclosure defining an internal tool volume configured to receive a plurality of trackable construction tools, and at least one a door coupled with the enclosure and operable to permit selective access to the internal tool volume and plurality of trackable construction tools held therein. The self-inventorying tool container further includes a plurality of beacons corresponding to the plurality of trackable construction tools, each beacon of the plurality of beacons configured to emit a short-range wireless signal and being removable from the internal volume with the respective trackable tool. The self-inventorying tool container further includes a scanning assembly arranged with the tool container and configured to detect the short-range wireless signal of each respective beacon of the plurality of beacons relative to internal tool volume.

Abstract: A method for utilizing transformer capacity allows multiple transformer users to have ordered access to the same backup transformer. When one of the users requires the use of a transformer, the users in line ahead of this user must exercise their rights to use the transformer or pass on their rights allowing the next user to decide whether or not to use the transformer. The method allows transformer owners to offer extra transformer capacity to those who desire backups while protecting their ownership interest and their need for the use of the backup. The method also provides those who need backup transformers a system to obtain access to the required backup without requiring them to purchase a new transformer or to wait for the transformer to be built.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods of monitoring mooring lines of an offshore drilling rig, with the apparatus including a communication system in communication with a global positioning system, providing position coordinates of the apparatus at a first point on the line, and also includes an inertial navigation system supported by the frame, providing position coordinates of the apparatus at a second point on the line, by double integration with respect to time of inertial accelerations measured by the device as it is moved from the first point to the second point. Correction at the second point is provided by obtaining at the second point, depth, position relative to magnetic north, and deviation from vertical.

Abstract: A data acquisition control method and system for alphanumeric character recognition. An unknown pattern is normalized, the normalized pattern is then divided into top and bottom parts. A center of mass is calculated for the two parts and is utilized for vertically aligning the unknown pattern. The vertically aligned pattern is width normalized and feature vectors are obtained. The feature vectors of the unknown pattern are then compared with feature vectors of known patterns stored in memory and the characters are identified.