Abstract: The present invention relates to light weight molded plastic articles and methods of making same. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a hollow-core, foamed-plastic, film-laminate article utilizing convention gas assisted molding apparatus with corresponding high production rate capabilities. The resulting film-laminate, hollow-core, foamed-plastic part comprises a class A show-face surface. The method comprises formation of a porous mass of molten plastic in the mold cavity containing the laminate. The molten plastic is cored out or hollowed by injection of gas into the mold cavity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to light weight molded plastic articles and methods of making same. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a hollow-core, foamed-plastic, film-laminate article utilizing convention gas assisted molding apparatus with corresponding high production rate capabilities. The resulting film-laminate, hollow-core, foamed-plastic part comprises a class A show-face surface. The method comprises formation of a porous mass of molten plastic in the mold cavity containing the laminate. The molten plastic is cored out or hollowed by injection of gas into the mold cavity.

Abstract: Improved method for gas assigned injection molding of automotive moldings and trim parts is disclosed wherein a pressure drop cavity is provided in the mold cavity structure adjacent to the gas channel. Admission of the gas into the gas channel during the molding process creates gas flow into the pressure drop cavity and into the major cavity that forms the general shape and configuration of the part.

Abstract: A keyboard support assembly for supporting computer keyboards and the like. The keyboard support assembly includes an articulating support arm having an end portion adapted to be secured to an associated base. The articulating support arm also defines an opposite end portion. A keyboard support member is adapted to support a keyboard thereon. The keyboard support assembly further includes a threadless quick connector releasably connecting the keyboard support member to the articulating support arm adjacent the opposite end portion thereof.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a system and method for comparing financial products as funding sources for a financial plan, such as a non-qualified supplemental benefit plan or an individual financial plan. Such embodiments include selecting two or more financial products for comparison of a set of attributes, assigning a weight to each of the attributes, scaling the values of the financial products across each attribute, multiplying the scaled values by the assigned weights, and generating a weighted score for each financial product by summing the weighted scaled values for each product. Various tradeoffs in selecting one product over another can be determined by changing the assigned weight for at least one of the attributes in a subsequent comparison.

Abstract: An adjustable support for computer keyboards and the like, including a support member shaped to retain an associated keyboard thereon. The support member is pivotally mounted to shift about a normally generally horizontal pivot axis to define a tilt angle for the support member and the keyboard with respect to a user, wherein the tilt angle is adjustable within a predetermined tilt range. The adjustable support further includes a tilt adjustment controller operatively connected with the support member and including a tilt rod and a releasable lock which move relative to one another when the support member is pivoted about the tilt axis for adjustment of the tilt angle. The lock engages the tilt rod in a locked position to retain the support member at a selected tilt angle. The lock disengages the tilt rod in an unlocked position to permit the support member to pivot freely within the tilt range.

Abstract: An FCC separation arrangement for a catalyst and hydrocarbon contacting zone having a downcomer terminus section uses a compact separation vessel to provide a quick separation between catalyst and hydrocarbon gases in a compact area that also accommodates the use of cyclone separators for a further removal of catalyst from the hydrocarbon gases. The separation system uses a gas collection conduit that incorporates an expansion element for accommodating differential growth between the riser separation vessel and cyclones in the same compact area. The system is suitable for single downcomers or multiple downcomers. The system can be used with a closed containment vessel or in an entirely open system that eliminates the use of a containment vessel.

Abstract: A computer mouse accessory includes a platform having a substantially planar upper surface upon which a computer mouse can be operated, a bracket for mounting the accessory to a support structure, such as keyboard shelf, the platform being secured to the bracket in a manner which allows for linear movement of the platform with respect to the bracket along a generally horizontal line. The linear adjustability of the platform relative to the bracket allows the platform to be positioned anywhere between a fully deployed position wherein the platform is located laterally adjacent to an end of a computer keyboard shelf to which the bracket is secured, and a fully retracted position wherein the platform overlies one side of the keyboard so that when the keyboard shelf is mounted on an articulated arm secured to the underside of a worksurface of the desk, the keyboard shelf and computer mouse accessory can be store together beneath the worksurface.

Abstract: Ohmic contacts to p-type IIB/VIB semiconductor are obtained by a process which includes the step of depositing a viscous liquid containing a Group IB metal salt on a surface of a semiconductor, substantially free of oxide groups, heating to form a dried layer, removing the dried layer, washing the surface to remove residual by-products and drying the surface.

Abstract: A special sealing arrangement provides a chamber between hot metallic internals attached to cold wall pressure vessel shells to preserve the integrity of the lining and to minimize thermal stresses imposed on the shell and the internals. The sealing element of this invention is a mesh blanket composite having opposite ends secured by different brackets to the internal structure and the cold wall pressure vessel shell. The membrane composite allows gases to escape from a heat transfer chamber between the internal structure and the pressure vessel shell while blocking the passage of catalyst into the chamber. This catalyst seal device is particularly useful in FCC units where fine catalyst particles can migrate into expansion chambers provided between an internal cone and the regenerator shell.

Abstract: A catalyst cooler arrangement for an FCC regenerator improves the operation of the cooler by the use of a full or partial screen arrangement at the cooler outlet of the regenerator to remove material that interferes with the operation of the cooler and especially the distribution of fluidizing gas within the cooler.