Abstract: A load sensor compares generated values of load signals to predicted values of the load signals. Where an error between a generated value and a predicted value is less than a threshold, a value of zero is transmitted by the load sensor to an external systems, in an encoded stream of bits, and the error are used to calculate a predicated value of a next load signal, such that insubstantial changes in loading resulting in small errors are not transmitted to the external system. Where an error between the generated value and the predicted value exceeds the threshold, however, a value representative of the error is transmitted to the external system, in an encoded stream of bits. The external system processes the stream of bits to calculate the error, to determine that an item has been placed on a storage system or removed therefrom, or to identify the item.

Abstract: Modular storage systems include load sensors disposed beneath or in association with platforms. The load sensors are pulse-sampled for signals corresponding to loads at time intervals, rather than continuously, in order to conserve electrical power. An item associated with a transaction is identified based on a change in the loads, as determined from the pulse-sampled signals. The platforms are aligned at horizontal or non-horizontal angles, and photovoltaic power sources with banks of photovoltaic cells are mounted to front edges of the platforms. When a user reaches over one of the photovoltaic cells to access an item on a platform, a level of power or voltage generated by the photovoltaic cell is diminished. The item closest to the photovoltaic cell having the diminished power or voltage, or a customer that accessed the item, may be identified accordingly.

Abstract: A multi-perforated metallic base member device (the Backing Plate) that is used to repair stress cracks, or panel abutment joint separations in drywall boarding, thereby restoring and strengthening the repaired areas without the need to replace any affected sections, which is quickly and easily installed to the blind side of the cracked wall from the outside, by temporarily mounting it onto the (so called) locking hooks of its detachable installation member, (The Handle) thereby creating a living hinged assembly. Once mounted the base member may be pivoted over like a jackknife to be inserted into the wall cavity through a pre-cut slit in the crack, where it will spring open within the wall, to be pulled outward by the Handle and held in place against the blind side of the wall, while it is securely fastened to both cracked panel edges through the outside of the wall.

Abstract: A systematic procedure, plus a series of (palm of the hand sized) perforated steel plates, for permanently repairing cracks, joint separations, impact holes, and other such damages, in gypsum wallboard panels. Repairs can be made with little or no rearward connection or support from the framing studs or joists at any desired position along the wall or ceiling framework. The invention is comprised of one Primary Steel Plate, plus a reusable hand-held tool for its installation. There are two other uniquely designed steel plates, each one for specific types of cracks or panel separations. The hand-held installation tool creates a pivoting action hinged installation assembly when joined with the primary steel plate; which may be folded on its “Hinges” like a jackknife and inserted directly through the crack or separation. It is then pulled flush against the inner panel surface.