Abstract: An electronic control module has rocker switches arranged in an array above a circuit board that is linked to a plurality of electrical devices through a data bus. The switches are magnetically coupled to individual transducers on the circuit board associated with these electrical devices to operate these devices remotely.

Abstract: The present invention provides an antenna system for reading RFID tags and/or transmitting and receiving wireless network signals, including for example wireless local area network (WLAN) signals, in a material handling environment. A ruggedized antenna can be mounted on the load backrest of a lift truck and configured to accomplish the reading of RFID tags that indicate particular pallet storage locations and the reading of RFID tags that indicate warehouse locations, such as specific loading docks. The antenna system can also be configured to accomplish transmitting and receiving WLAN signals for communication with a warehouse.

Abstract: In one exemplary embodiment in accordance with the invention, an order-picking system includes a picking cart having a radio frequency (RF) antenna arranged above an object-stacking surface of the picking cart. The order-picking system further includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag reader coupled to the RF antenna. The RFID tag reader is configured to identify a first RFID tag attached to a first tagged object placed on the picking cart and further configured to eliminate identification of a second RFID tag attached to a second tagged object located outside a perimeter of the object-stacking surface of the picking cart.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tine-mounted antenna for reading RFID tags in a warehouse environment using RFID technology operating at ultra-high frequencies (UHF) or microwave frequencies and backscatter coupling techniques. At least one ruggedized antenna is mounted on the tine (or other base-level platform) of a lift truck (e.g., a forklift). The antenna can be configured to read RFID tags on pallets that are loaded on the lift truck and communicate the tag information to a warehouse management system.

Abstract: The present invention provides an antenna for reading RFID tags in a material handling environment. At least one ruggedized, upward-looking antenna is mounted on the fork (or other base-level platform) of a pallet jack or pallet truck. The antenna can be configured to read RFID tags on pallets that are loaded on the pallet jack and communicate the tag information to a warehouse management system.

Abstract: In one of several embodiments, an RFID system for a forklift incorporates a metal plate to which is attached an electronic circuit assembly. Also attached to the metal plate, is an antenna assembly housing an RFID interrogator antenna and/or a wireless local area network (WLAN) antenna. The metal plate operates as a ground plane to the antenna assembly and also serves as a mounting plate for mounting the RFID system on a sideshifter or a carriage of the forklift.

Abstract: An embodiment may comprise a remotely actuated circuit breaker actuator apparatus for use with a circuit breaker comprising: an actuator; and a mount for holding the actuator; wherein the circuit breaker is remotely actuated via the actuator.

Abstract: A rocker switch assembly has several rocker shells that define cavities to receive in sorts of several varieties that allow the user to provide several rockers in a side-by-side assembly of rocker switches with a wave pattern that allows each switch to be easily identified or to function and/or switch condition. Reversing the orientation of every other rocker shell provides the wave pattern, and the use of different inserts allows variation in the illumination level of individual rocker switches, yet each rocker shell shares a common geometry.

Abstract: In general, the disclosure is directed to a method of creating a middleware adapter in a factory. In one aspect, the method includes designing, developing and testing the adapter. The middleware adapter is designed with a designer and a quality controller to produce a design. Designing the middleware adapter includes reference to a knowledge base. The design is developed a developer and the quality controller to produce a requested adapter. The requested adapter is tested with a tester and the quality controller to produce a completed middleware adapter. In another aspect, the method includes analyzing a request for an adapter, designing the adapter, and developing the design. Analyzing the request includes determining whether the request is for a new adapter or for modifications to an existing adapter. Designing the adapter includes designing with a designer and a quality controller to produce a design, where the designing includes reference to a knowledge base.

Abstract: A control system for electrical devices in a vehicle has output/relay modules with processing and memory capability. The output/relay module is programmable to store configuration data corresponding to predetermined states for the various devices to be controlled. The output/relay module has memory capability including a non-volatile component (EEROM). An input module also has processing capability, and includes memory capability. The input module has selector switches for preselecting a variety of device states. The input module further provides a visual indication of the states for these devices. A data bus provides communication between said input and output modules, and a dongle is selectively connected to said relay module data bus for allowing changes to the configuration data stored therein. The dongle is programmable from a personal computer or work station. The control system includes a voltage monitoring system and circuit breakers to protect the system and devices controlled thereby.

Abstract: An apparatus for enveloping successive groups of items in a plastic film as the items traverse a linear path. Items are gathered in a group, and the group of items is then inserted in a tubular packaging film as the items and the film are conveyed at the same linear velocity. After the items are completely enveloped in the film, the film is severed and sealed to fully encapsulate them in the film. A vacuum is used to eliminate excess air generated within the tube, and also, in one form of the invention, form side gussets as sealing dies are closed. A tight package made at speeds results, with no need for any holes in the film to relieve internal air pressure.