Abstract: A method includes identifying multiple planned sequences of operations involving industrial equipment. The planned sequences of operations include one or more sequences of operations currently being performed using the industrial equipment and/or one or more sequences of operations to be performed using the industrial equipment. The method also includes identifying information associated with prior executions of the sequences of operations. The information includes timing information associated with the prior executions of the sequences of operations. The method further includes generating timing predictions for operations in the planned sequences of operations using the identified information. In addition, the method includes generating an interface for presentation to an operator. The interface identifies the planned sequences of operations and the timing predictions for the operations in the planned sequences of operations.

Abstract: The invention is a support platform for providing a stable and secure work surface when the existing surface is irregular, such as open ground, or when the existing surface is inconvenient, such as a staircase. The support platform is configured to be transported by a single person, deployed for use, and taken down and stowed as needed. The support platform can be used for directly supporting a person, or can be used for supporting a tool, such as a ladder in a manner that provides secure and slip-resistant support. In some cases, the platform is larger and/or heavier and is transportable by multiple persons or with assistance selected from the group consisting of mechanical assistance, power assistance, and automation.

Abstract: An apparatus for making and dispensing frozen aerated products includes a rotating horizontal freeze plate with an upper surface for receiving a chilled aerated mix. The chilled aerated mix includes, in one embodiment, ice cream base that has been sufficiently aerated, and flavor. The apparatus further includes a scraper for scraping frozen aerated mix off of the rotating freeze plate. The scraper includes a body that forms an elongated semi-cylindrical channel. The apparatus also includes a plow for pushing the scraped, frozen and aerated mix through the channel towards a cup held by a cup lifter disposed at an end of the channel. The action of the plow pushes the scraped frozen aerated mix through the channel and into the cup resulting in a generally round scoop of scraped frozen aerated mix in the cup that resembles a serving scoop experienced at a traditional ice cream shop.

Abstract: An apparatus for making and dispensing frozen aerated products includes a rotating horizontal freeze plate with an upper surface for receiving a chilled aerated mix. The chilled aerated mix includes, in one embodiment, ice cream base that has been sufficiently aerated, and flavor. The horizontal freeze plate rotates about its central axis. The apparatus also includes a spreader body for distributing the chilled aerated mix on the rotating freeze plate. The spreader body extends radially across at least a portion of the upper surface of the freeze plate. The apparatus further includes a scraper for scraping frozen aerated mix off of the rotating freeze plate. The scraper includes a scraper blade with a leading edge that extends radially across the portion of the freeze plate and that engages the upper surface of the freeze plate. The scraper blade is directed opposite the direction of rotation of the freeze plate.