Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for reconciling data. In one implementation, the systems and methods may receive first data corresponding to an expected state of at least one of a plurality of objects and create second data corresponding to an actual state of the at least one of the plurality of objects. In addition, the systems and methods may compare the first data to the second data to determine if the actual state corresponds to the expected state. In accordance with another implementation, systems and methods are provided for determining and applying rules to data. Such systems and methods may receive data comprising a root element and at least one leaf element, the root element having attributes and the attributes comprising characteristics, select a condition table based upon the characteristics, select a first ruleset based upon the selected condition table, and apply rules defined by the selected first ruleset to the data.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to logistics systems and methods. In particular, the present invention relates to a method and a corresponding computer system for delivering shipping information, comprising—automatically detecting that a user at a front-end of a telephone channel is eligible to receive information about a shipment still in transit to the user; —obtaining user information by an IVR (Interactive Voice Response) interface; —obtaining shipping information associated with said shipment; —based on said shipping information automatically generating a telephony message incorporating the current status of the shipment and sending it to the user.

Abstract: An electronic baggage tracking device replaces the tracking sticker presently applied to baggage. The device has a display which at least selectively displays destination indicia such as a barcode identifying a particular destination airport location. The device also has the ability to store traveler identification information, which is preferably at least partially encrypted, as well as travel information which may not normally be provided with baggage indicia, such as departing and arrival times. The device is preferably connected to baggage, if not integrally, then with a housing which connects to handles such as with a top having depending sides which cooperate with a displaceable bottom. Once installed, the device preferably has a locking configuration thereby preventing inadvertent or undesired removal of the device.

Abstract: This application teaches a disposal chain and a supply chain system for sealing and unsealing a vacuum draw path embodying a thrust handle capable of imparting assembly and disassembly thrust forces said system conferring the potential of reducing the amount solid waste mass contributed to the waste stream.

Abstract: Disclosed is an integrated global shipment system that provides end-to-end visibility of the movement of a package. The integrated global shipment system employs a shipment consolidating application for integrating one or more freight tracking systems with one or more end-delivery systems. As a result, shippers are provided with complete visibility of the movement of their shipments of goods from an origin country to a destination country and till the final consignees. In addition, the integrated shipment system significantly decreases the cost of managing inventories by providing a virtual inventory solution. Under this virtual inventory solution, suppliers are able to bypass distribution centers and delay allocation of goods until after the importation of goods into a destination country.

Abstract: A shipping container is used with methods for controlling shipment of a temperature controlled material so that once a customer order is initiated with a customer origin point and a customer destination the shipping container with a phase change material maintaining a sample chamber within the shipping container within a desired temperature range is shipped to the customer origin point where a temperature controlled material is loaded into the sample chamber and then the shipping container is shipped to the customer destination and then returned to a repurposing site and periodic location of the shipping container is tracked by use of a wireless location sensor associated with the shipping container during its shipment. The health of the shipping container, as well as the temperature of its sample chamber, can also be monitored, tracked, recorded and retrieved either during shipment or at the conclusion of a shipping cycle.

Abstract: The systems and methods described herein relate generally to the electronic recordation of the transfer of a package from a shipper to a responsible postal carrier. In one embodiment, a method of recording the acceptance of a package from a package shipper shipped via a post service includes the steps of: generating a unique header number to preface a record of package transactions made over a time period for a specific shipper, the header number being unique within the post service, wherein each package transaction is made with a centralized computer system and has an associated delivery confirmation number unique within the post service; transmitting the unique header number and transaction record to the post service; generating a scannable indicia representative of the unique header number; and scanning the indicia to confirm acceptance of the package by the post service, wherein the indicia is scanned by a post service representative.

Abstract: A survey is placed into an envelope containing an address label and a tracking indicia. The address label indicates an old address of a recipient. The envelope containing the survey is routed through a delivery system. The delivery system is configured to sense the tracking indicia as it passes through the elements of the delivery system thus tracking the movement of the envelope through the delivery system. The envelope containing the survey is sent through the delivery system to the plant supporting the old address. The recipient, however, no longer resides at the old address and now resides at a new address. The envelope containing the survey is forwarded through the delivery system to the plant supporting the new address. Once the recipient receives and completes the survey, survey is sent to the system operator for analysis.

Abstract: The present invention provides a computer system for managing shipping of a plurality of parcels by a plurality of users using a plurality of carriers that functionally aligns each server computer device of a plurality of server computer devices so that each server computer device performs a plurality of activities in support of a primary function.

Abstract: An on-line system and method for buyers and sellers of international container transportation services is disclosed. Specifically, the system offers importing and exporting customers the opportunity to request and select specific service patterns offered by participating carriers in the booking of full container shipments. The system includes user interfaces that allow a shipper to track and trace containers across multiple carriers and an event notifications system, which notifies the user when an event has or has not occurred.

Abstract: This invention is a system and method for tracking and managing transportation of specimens from a first location such as a medical office to a second location such as a testing lab for processing. A courier using a portable computing device can receive information representing that a specimen is ready for pick up from a first location. The courier will travel to a first location and enter specimen identification information into the portable computing device as well as first location information. Therefore, the portable computing device will have a record that the specimen has been picked up from the first location. The specimen is then carried to a second location and the courier enters the status of the specimen to show that it has been delivered to the second location for processing and a record exists to show that the specimen has been delivered to the second location. Lab results can be sent via the invention from the second location to the first location.

Abstract: A method and system for unified secondary management of tow claims and salvage tow data, and specifically for simplifying the workflow of attending insurers, towers, and a manager (operator of an application service provider). The system is implemented in software form and includes an Insurance Company Module for allowing Clients to initiate tow dispatch orders into the system, a Tow Company Module for allowing towing vendors to view, execute and track tow dispatches assigned to them through the dispatch system, and a Management Module for allowing a third party Manager to manage the system, and to dispatch tow orders, track orders, approve completed orders for payment, and provide Client and Vendor account management, reports and performance tracking. Data extracted from all three modules is stored in a relational database and can readily be accessed by any of the three participants in real time, and may be edited and/or analyzed for reporting.

Abstract: A database dispatches data to a wireless device on the particular source that powers a container during any segment of its journey.

Abstract: A wireless transceiver includes: (a) a low power radio frequency (LPRF) communications component capable of powering down to conserve energy and capable of powering up in response to an electronic signal, the LPRF communications component including a transmitter and a first receiver; and (b) a second receiver that is configured to screen a radio frequency broadcast and provide, on the basis of specific data identified therein, the electronic signal to the LPRF communications component in order to power up the LPRF communications component. The second receiver is adapted to draw less current than the LPRF communications component while awaiting receipt of and listening for a radio frequency broadcast.

Abstract: A complete logistics and transportation management system, with a number of integrated software and hardware components integrated to provide a total system for scheduling transportation assets. A method for tracking an asset includes adding at least one asset to a computer system having a web-accessible graphical user interface; adding properties to the asset in the computer system via at least one of a mobile or handheld computer or the graphical user interface; and displaying a searchable asset list in the graphical user interface, along with the quantity of each asset, location of each asset, and at least one picture of each asset.

Abstract: A Secure Commerce and Asset/Supply Chain Management system and method provides displaying, commerce, asset management, global logistics, Customs declaration and recycling services for any user at anytime, anywhere with available communication network. Wireless sensors/identifier/computer/communicators, 2D graphic identifier, artificial intelligent and pervasive network communication/computing technologies are used to provide a user/friendly space. The user can interact with the system with mobile/wearable devices, or with movements/sounds made by his/her body. Embedded invisible sensing/computing/communication modules and/or holistic 3D virtual computing can be used to enhance user's experience. Major components of the system include an Intelligent Display Unit (IDU, 1), an Ubiquitous Information System (UIS, 2), a Secure Transport Unit (STU, 3), and a Personal Assistant Unit (PAU, 4).

Abstract: An electronic registration system facilitates authorized product returns and reduces the incidence of improper returns. A retailer sales associate is prompted to enter individual product identification information such as an individual serial number. This individual product identification information is then stored in a data base along with the date on which the product was sold and an appropriate UPC code, SKU number or manufacturer code. A check digit algorithm may be used to verify the serial number prior to storage. A sales receipt may be imprinted with at least the date of the transaction and the serial number. When a product is returned, the retailer may cross-reference the serial number on the product with that on the receipt to verify the sales receipt. Otherwise, the database may be searched for pertinent sales information. A customer may also access a return authorization engine via the Internet to obtain return approval, an authorization number, return instructions, etc. to reduce retailer hassle.

Abstract: Surgical sponges and other articles are provided with machine-readable information which provides a serial number or other unique identification of the sponge. In addition, the machine-readable information will provide the type of article and/or a characteristic visual motif associated with the article. That way, by scanning in the machine-readable information from the sponges or other articles prior to a procedure, the computer or other digital processor can determine which articles may be missing after the procedure and alert the surgical team as to the type and/or characteristic visual motif of the missing article.

Abstract: A cooperative system and an associated method are provided for resolving a distressed shipment during transport by a carrier, where the distressed shipment includes one or more parcels rendered temporarily undeliverable by an exception event while in transit from a shipper to a consignee. The inventive method involves the shipper in the task of contacting the consignee for the additional information necessary to resolve the shipment. The system creates a cooperative of participating shippers and carriers, working together to complete a shipment and thereby avoid the delay and expense associated with a premature or unnecessary return.

Abstract: A method for receiving a parcel to be shipped to a destination via at least one shipment provider. The method comprises receiving from a sender shipping information associated with the shipment of the parcel to be shipped, the shipping information including destination information and payment information. The method further comprises receiving at a drop-off unit the parcel to be shipped from the sender. The method further comprises associating the shipping information received from the sender with the received parcel. The method still further comprises generating at the drop-off unit a signal to be transmitted to the at least one shipment provider, the signal being indicative that at least one parcel has been received at the drop-off unit.

Abstract: A shipping system for shipping packages involving the coordinated use of at least a first carrier and a second carrier. The shipping system includes physical delivery facilities for the physical delivery of packages, the physical delivery facilities including at least one transfer location at which the second carrier may take over delivery responsibilities for a package. The shipping system also includes an information system having a shipper computer system configured to record and determine whether the delivery address of a package is an efficient destination for the first carrier. If not an efficient destination, such as a delivery address having a rural zip code, the shipper computer system is configured to label the package for delivery to one of the transfer locations, allowing the first carrier to transfer the selected package to the second carrier for completion of the less efficient portion of the delivery.

Abstract: A system and method of analyzing transportation data includes receiving a transportation data set including transportation data corresponding to at least one item. A portion of the transportation data is converted into an event string, which includes a plurality of event symbols corresponding to a plurality of transportation events. The event string is selectively filtered according to a query to produce a filtered event string, and transportation data associated with the filtered event string may be reported.

Abstract: An inter-office communication management system can include an inter-office communication item such as an inter-office mail envelope or routing slip. The inter-office communication item can be a transient document. An inter-office communication identifier placement module can affix an inter-office communication identifier to the first inter-office communication label. The inter-office communication label can be attached to the inter-office communication item. An inter-office communication tracking module can be used to track the inter-office communication item based on the inter-office communication identifier affixed to the inter-office communication label.

Abstract: Object transportation networks may comprise a network of nodes joined by paths in which transportation means may transport objects between the nodes of the network. In some networks, objects are not actively tracked, and thus may only be detected at specific points (such as entries or exits) In such networks we may be interested in knowing whether it is feasible for an object at one location to be transported to another location within a given time frame. In some circumstances we may have a location of interest and time period of interest. We may then be interested in knowing for other locations in the network, the time period during which it was possible to be transported to the location interest during the time period of interest. We may also be interested in knowing the time period during which it was possible to have been at the location of interest during the time point of interest, and have then been transported to another time location in the network.

Abstract: The exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a way for low-volume mailers to track individual outbound mail pieces, including tracking of individual U.S. Postal Service FIRST-CLASS MAIL® letters. The exemplary embodiment of the present invention encodes a unique mail piece tracking identifier as a CONFIRM® service identifier in a graphic symbology. The unique mail piece tracking identifier of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention conforms with requirements of a CONFIRM® service identifier, while at the same time, provides, for a defined period of time, mail-piece-level uniqueness for first class and other mail class mail piece tracking.

Abstract: There is provided an exemplary method for operating a shipping process within a logistics system. An exemplary logistics system includes a first client and a shipping station that comprises a second client. Both the first client and the second client are connected to a server. A shipment may be deposited at the shipping station. The exemplary method comprises receiving identification and/or authentication data on the shipment via the first client and forwarding the data to the server. The exemplary method also comprises processing the data and preparing a pre-configuration of the shipping process. The pre-configuration of the shipping process is forwarded to the second client. The pre-configuration of the shipping process via the second client may be supplemented when the shipment is deposited at the shipping station.

Abstract: A mailing system providing enhanced security for mailings processed and accepted by the mailing system. The mailing system uses sensed biometric data from the customer and/or sensed mailing type data from a secured mailing for creation of a database correlating trackable mailings to biometric data of the customer posting the mailing, placing biometric data of the customer posting a mailing onto the mailing and/or identifying suspicious mailings deserving special attention during transportation and delivery.

Abstract: A method of graphically representing management of goods in a supply chain includes receiving goods management data in a computer system from participants in a supply chain, the goods management data being sent upon the participants managing individual goods, and generating a graph in the computer system using the goods management data, the graph showing the management of the individual goods over time. A computer-implemented tool may generate a display area that shows the management of individual goods over time by the participants. The goods management may be graphically represented as cumulative curves. Curves may be shifted, cleansed or predicted. The tool may identify problems in the supply chain.

Abstract: An on-line system and method for buyers and sellers of international container transportation services is disclosed. Specifically, the system offers importing and exporting customers the opportunity to request and select specific service patterns offered by participating carriers in the booking of full container shipments. The system includes user interfaces that allow a shipper to track and trace containers across multiple carriers and an event notifications system, which notifies the user when an event has or has not occurred.

Abstract: An on-line system and method for buyers and sellers of international container transportation services is disclosed. Specifically, the system offers importing and exporting customers the opportunity to request and select specific service patterns offered by participating carriers in the booking of full container shipments. The system includes user interfaces that allow a shipper to track and trace containers across multiple carriers and an event notifications system, which notifies the user when an event has or has not occurred.

Abstract: The present invention enables users to access shipping information pertaining to the shipment of parcels by utilizing an add-in module that is distributed from a remote server to the users. Specifically, the add-in module is invoked by merely selecting an action from a tool bar or menu associated with a text string in a document or spreadsheet either recognized by a MICROSOFT OFFICE® smart tag or highlighted by the user. The actions from which to select include but are not limited to tracking, time in transit, or shipping history. The add-in module is adapted to recognize the text string located in the document or spreadsheet and to transmit the text string to a database server connected to the network and adapted for receiving the text string, querying a database to retrieve shipping information corresponding to the text string, and transmitting the shipping information to the user via the communications network.

Abstract: A method for transporting cargo using a truck is provided. Preferably, the method is used in connection with full truckload operations. The method generally includes powering up a communications module residing within a cab of the truck. The communications module comprises a vehicle navigation system, a modem for receiving telecommunications signals, a processing unit for associating instructions for cargo delivery locations with geo-positioning coordinates, and a user interface. The method further includes receiving a cargo delivery data set at the communications module. The data set is sent from a host trucking management system. The data set provides at least a first cargo delivery location for the driver. The method then includes the driver acknowledging receipt of the first cargo delivery location through the user interface. Acknowledgment of receipt of the first cargo delivery location causes a signal to be sent from the communications module to the host trucking management system.

Abstract: A computer program product tangibly embodied in a computer-readable storage medium includes instructions that when executed by a processor perform a method for interaction between a business system and a mobile device. The method includes forwarding, from a business system that includes an application program having logical functionality, a visual interface for storage on a mobile device and display by a browser on the mobile device, the visual interface configured for making a call from the mobile device to the logical functionality. The method includes storing a business system proxy on a computer device configured for communication with the mobile device at a remote location, the business system proxy including the logical functionality and configured to receive the call from the mobile device. The method includes receiving, in the business system, an update from the business system proxy relating to use of the mobile device at the remote location.

Abstract: A business method for promoting goods and services of providers includes the steps of designating a group of targeted recipients, and storing demographics information of each recipient in an electronic database. A plurality of direct mail items including provider promotions is generated, and each marked with a machine-readable ID code unique to each of the recipients. The direct mail items are sorted by their respective ID codes into cooperative mail packages, each mail package containing multiple items with common ID codes. The mail packages are then forwarded to respective recipients. After redemption of a direct mail item by a recipient, the ID code is read and electronically linked with the recipient's demographics information contained in the electronic database. A report is generated based on the direct mail items redeemed.

Abstract: A shipping system for shipping packages involving the coordinated use of at least a first carrier and a second carrier. The shipping system includes physical delivery facilities for the physical delivery of packages, the physical delivery facilities including at least one transfer location at which the second carrier may take over delivery responsibilities for a package. The shipping system also includes an information system having a shipper computer system configured to record and determine whether the delivery address of a package is an efficient destination for the first carrier. If not an efficient destination, such as a delivery address having a rural zip code, the shipper computer system is configured to label the package for delivery to one of the transfer locations, allowing the first carrier to transfer the selected package to the second carrier for completion of the less efficient portion of the delivery.

Abstract: A method and system to process and track mailpieces. A code is printed on the mailpiece that can include an identification of a metering device generating the code and a subscriber number of a subscriber generating the mailpiece. The code is scanned during a processing step in a mailpiece delivery system, wherein information associated with the scanned code is stored in a database accessible by the user and allowing the user to track a movement of the mailpiece in the mailpiece delivery system.

Abstract: The present invention involves systems and methods for tracking one or more shipped items that are shipped via a carrier. A set of expected occurrences are established for each item shipped. The items are then shipped and the shipment of the one or more shipped items is monitored for an occurrence of the set of expected occurrences, the occurrence of any non-expected event, and a non-occurrence of any of the set of expected occurrences. If there is the occurrence of any non-expected event or the non-occurrence of any of the set of expected occurrences, then such an event is made available to at least the shipper.

Abstract: A commodity shipment data management system includes a loader computer for storage of shipment data in a loader database. The system prompts the user to enter values for shipment data parameters, and prevents entry of invalid values. Data may also be entered remotely by wireless transmission. A GPS receiver collects loader location data and sends it to the loader computer. An output device records shipment data on a portable data storage medium which accompanies the shipment and is read into a destination weighscale computer. The system minimizes manual entry and transfer of data, reducing the risk of human error in data entry, and enhancing the reliability of the data. The GPS data facilitates verification of the geographical source and chain of custody of the shipped commodity, and, combined with data gathered by loader function sensors, facilitates detection of errors and fraudulent activity in connection with commodity shipments.

Abstract: The subject invention relates to systems and methods of tracking ships and ship cargo. In one embodiment, the system includes a central processor, a position tracking system, and a database. According to one aspect of the invention, the methods includes registering, tracking, and confirming the arrival of a plurality of ships or ship containers.

Abstract: Systems and methods collect data concerning a supply chain and perform statistical analysis on the collected data to facilitate identification of anomalies or inefficiencies in the process. One method disclosed involves storing, in memory accessible to at least one processor, an electronic copy of an advanced shipping notification (ASN) that was transmitted from a shipping location to a receiving location in advance of shipping at least one item therebetween, and also storing, in memory accessible to the at least one processor, data reflecting at least one determined value of at least one monitored aspect of the shipment between the shipping location and the receiving location. The at least one processor uses at least some information from the ASN stored in memory, with at least some of the data stored in memory, to generate at least one report involving the at least one determined value.

Abstract: The principles of the present invention provide the ability to flexibly change the delivery point and time for a mail item, while the item is en route. The recipient, sender, or mailer may flexibly change the delivery point of the item alone or in combination with each other. While an item is en route between the sending point and the delivery point, a notification is sent to indicate that the item is in transit. In response, the delivery of the item may be changed. For example, the destination specified by the sender (e.g., the delivery address written on the item) may be changed or a delivery time may be specified. The item is then delivered to the new delivery point and/or at the specified delivery time.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing personalized delivery services by a carrier providing a package delivery service. Typically, the consignee indicates a delivery preference to be applied to delivery of a package, such as indicating a specific location where the package is to be left upon delivery, if the consignee is not present to accept the package. In one embodiment, the consignee may be notified by the carrier of the scheduled delivery of the package, and may be linked to the carrier's web site to indicate a delivery preference. Alternatively, the delivery preference may be indicated by the consignee proactively accessing the web site. After conveying a delivery preference, the carrier's systems communicate the delivery preference at the appropriate time to a portable computing device which informs the delivery personnel of the consignee's delivery preference. Other embodiments allow the consignor to indicate delivery preferences.

Abstract: A system for tracking a location of at least one item is described. The system includes a tag associated with the at least one item during a shipping journey. The tag detects shipping information, including temperature, humidity, shock, etc. The tag sends the shipping information to a master unit. The master unit also detects certain shipping information. The master unit communicates with a central processor to provide the shipping information to the central processor. The central processor relies on the shipping information to determine one of a condition or a location of the item.

Abstract: Techniques are described for using radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags to track patient specimens throughout the collection and analysis of patient specimens. A series of RFID tags may be used to track the specimens starting with the collection of a patient's tissue specimen at a surgery or examination room, through the process of preparing the specimens at a laboratory, to a specialist's office where the specimens are analyzed, and eventually into storage where the left-over specimen materials may be archived. A database may be used to capture unique identifiers for the RFID tags and other information throughout the process.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for facilitating the shipment of a package or packages, each package containing one or more items, from a Sender to a Recipient, via one of a number of shippers. The apparatus includes a database for storing shipper data, a processor for processing the data in the database, a Sender's terminal for selectively receiving and sending shipment information to and from the processing system, a first communications link for selectively enabling communication between the database/processor and the Sender's terminal, a second communications link for selectively communicating between the database/processor and the shipper of the package(s), and a third communications link for selectively communicating between the database/processor and customs facilitation entities such as customs brokers. The Internet may be used as at least one of the communication links, and the database may be made available through a Web site.