Abstract: Methods and apparatus for tracking the location of one or more unit loads in a coordinate space in a facility, comprising an integrated system that identifies a load by communicating with a host computer, determines the position of the load in the coordinate space, and stores the position and load identity in a Load Map. A mobile subsystem on each conveying vehicle identifies the location and orientation of that vehicle using a position/orientation sensor, confirms acquisition of the load, and communicates the information to a fixed-base subsystem when the load is deposited on an automated conveying device. A conveyor controller tracks the load as it is conveyed on the automated conveying device and identifies the load to a subsequent conveying vehicle based upon its position on the conveying device. Loads that are not initially identified are assigned a pseudo-identification for tracking until they can be positively identified.

Abstract: A method of tracking inventory using a material handling device that utilizes a lift mechanism provided on the material handling device for use in transporting an inventory unit from one location to a different location is provided. The method includes moving the lift mechanism using a hydraulic system and generating a signal indicative of hydraulic pressure within a hydraulic line of the hydraulic system. Item information is obtained upon a change in the hydraulic pressure beyond a predetermined threshold value using a reader carried by the material handling device.

Abstract: A laminate structure for producing paperboard or polymer containers and blow molded bottles containing a barrier structure of layer(s) of polyethylene terephthalate and a layer of ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, wherein no polyolefin based tie layers are used in the structure. The container or bottle produced therefrom is recyclable and has dimensional stability.