Abstract: A data exchange network in which user created files can contain user data and source data, user created files can be shared, and access to data within user created files can be controlled. The systems and techniques feature enabling a computing device network to output, input, store, and control access data as whole files and as distinct parts within user created files. The systems and techniques also feature enabling a computing device to access data within a user created media file with various levels of access restrictions.

Abstract: Embodiments disclose a reusable shipping container. The container may comprise six multi-layered walls of a plastic material. Further, the container may comprise a rail fastened to a top edge of the container with a plurality of first fasteners, wherein the fasteners penetrate on the rail, a first layer and a second layer of the container. Moreover, the container may comprise an insulation layer of vacuum insulation material and an inner layer corresponding to each wall of the container. Methods are also described for packing a parcel for shipment. The insulation layer and the inner layer are inserted into the container, wherein the inner layer encloses the parcel. Thereafter, an insulation layer corresponding to a top wall is inserted and the top wall is closed.

Abstract: A container system includes a container for shipping a parcel and a labeling system for providing information about the shipping of the container, such as to/from information. The container system further includes a closure mechanism for closing the lid of the container, a protection system for protecting the item housed in the container, and a rail system for supporting the container and maintaining its structure.

Abstract: In a system for automatic identification, a method performed by an appliance coupled to a network balances load among appliances. The network includes a plurality of tags, a plurality of readers that read the tags, and a plurality of appliances. The appliances service the readers to provide information for a server, also coupled to the network. The server performs an application program in accordance with the information. The method includes in any order: (a) determining an unallocated capacity for service by the appliance; (b) determining a load for servicing a reader of the plurality; and (c) if the load fits within the unallocated capacity, providing a signal to the network for another appliance of the plurality, the signal for indicating that the appliance can service the reader.

Abstract: A system includes a plurality of vending machines communicating wirelessly with a centralized consolidation unit. The consolidation unit communicates via a pre-established communications network, such as a wired or wireless telephone network with a data collection center. A method of polling a vending machine having a wireless transceiver includes sending a first wireless signal to the wireless transceiver of the vending machine, the first signal soliciting a status response from the vending machine, and receiving a second wireless signal from the transceiver of the vending machine, the second signal including the status response which includes information pertaining to a status of the vending machine. The status information may pertain to an inventory level, money deposits, maintenance status or security status of the vending machine.

Abstract: In a system for automatic identification, a method performed by an appliance coupled to a network balances load among appliances. The network includes a plurality of tags, a plurality of readers that read the tags, and a plurality of appliances. The appliances service the readers to provide information for a server, also coupled to the network. The server performs an application program in accordance with the information. The method includes in any order: (a) determining an unallocated capacity for service by the appliance; (b) determining a load for servicing a reader of the plurality; and (c) if the load fits within the unallocated capacity, providing a signal to the network for another appliance of the plurality, the signal for indicating that the appliance can service the reader.

Abstract: A system, method and computer program product are disclosed for monitoring inventory in an inventory control framework. In accordance with one embodiment, information relating to a load supported by a storage unit may be input into the storage unit. The storage unit may have a weight sensor for sensing the weight of the load supported by the storage unit. Information may then be obtained from the storage unit about the load supported by the storage unit as well as information identifying the storage unit. Inventory information relating to the load my be updated based on the information obtained from the storage unit.

Abstract: A system includes a plurality of vending machines communicating wirelessly with a centralized consolidation unit. The consolidation unit communicates via a pre-established communications network, such as a wired or wireless telephone network with a data collection center. A method of polling a vending machine having a wireless transceiver includes sending a first wireless signal to the wireless transceiver of the vending machine, the first signal soliciting a status response from the vending machine, and receiving a second wireless signal from the transceiver of the vending machine, the second signal including the status response which includes information pertaining to a status of the vending machine. The status information may pertain to an inventory level, money deposits, maintenance status or security status of the vending machine.