Abstract: A computer system-implemented method comprises using a process in execution on a processor of a computer system to access, from a database and/or from product information pages on a first retailer's e-commerce site, product description information and pricing information for a product sold by the first retailer. Using a robot module, product description information and pricing information for a non-identically identified product that is offered for sale by a second retailer is accessed via an electronic communication network. Product matching rules with parameters that are adjustable by product are implemented and accessed to automatically determine whether or not an exact feature match exists between the product and the non-identically identified product. Upon determining an exact feature match, a data output linking the product and the non-identically identified product is generated automatically, the data output for being accessed by a price comparison process.

Abstract: A mold form fryer utilizing a top conveyor that transports snack pieces through a constant velocity oil stream without the need for a bottom mating mold or conveyor. Herein, the form fryer is provided with a top conveyor disposed above a fryer oil pan positioned longitudinally through the fryer. Uncooked snack pieces are provided to the fryer oil pan by a bottom entrance conveyor. Snack pieces, once in oil within the fryer, meet with a top conveyor having convex molding surfaces with product-centering elements. At the exit portion of the fryer, a bottom exit conveyor receives the cooked snack pieces from the top conveyor. As no continuous bottom conveyor is utilized, the fryer oil pan may be provided with a reduced volume segment situated between the bottom entrance and exit conveyors.

Abstract: A display sign includes a sign mount configured to engage support rails of a ceiling and a graphics display supported by the sign mount and configured for rotation about 360°. A motor may be provided to power rotation of the graphics display.

Abstract: A system for creating and viewing simulation models that are used for managing requirements and design specifications for complex systems. Users simultaneously collaborate on the description of a complex system such as an enterprise software project throughout its life cycle. User interfaces, designed to assist in the visualization of a particular form of knowledge, allow users to describe the complex system with simple interactive elements. Information in all perspectives is presented so that it is legible and discernable to a non-technical audience. Multi-dimensional data structures record all the resulting information, creating a simulation model of the complex system, and the tasks required for construction and maintenance. Tasks are driven from the specifications not as a separate activity, but as part of the same activity to facilitate project management by allowing decisions to be tracked virtually throughout the simulation model.

Abstract: Method for managing a closing of an account of a user. The method includes receiving an identifier of the account of the user, retrieving status information associated with the identifier and determining whether the account is coded to close from the retrieved status information. Thereafter, automatically providing from the retrieved status information a reason why the account has not been closed if the account is determined to be coded to close.

Abstract: A mold form fryer utilizing a top conveyor that transports snack pieces through a constant velocity oil stream without the need of a bottom mating mold or conveyor. Herein, the form fryer is provided with a top conveyor disposed above a fryer oil pan positioned longitudinally through the fryer. Uncooked snack pieces are provided to the fryer oil pan by a bottom entrance conveyor. Snack pieces, once in oil within the fryer, meet with a top conveyor having convex molding surfaces with product-centering elements. At the exit portion of the fryer, a bottom exit conveyor receives the cooked snack pieces from the top conveyor. As no continuous bottom conveyor is utilized, the fryer oil pan may be provided with a reduced volume segment situated between the bottom entrance and exit conveyors.

Abstract: A display sign includes a sign mount configured to engage support rails of a ceiling and a graphics display supported by the sign mount and configured for rotation about 360°. A motor may be provided to power rotation of the graphics display.

Abstract: A process for preparing a low-oil Masa-based snack chip is disclosed. Baked and proofed chip-shaped masa pieces are introduced in a substantially monolayered array into a continuous flow frier. The pieces are par-fried in oil, while being maintained in a substantially monolayered array, then finish fried until the moisture content thereof reaches a predetermined level. The finished masa pieces are removed from the frier in a substantially vertical orientation and contacted, while in a substantially vertical orientation, with super-heated steam, whereby oil is partially removed from the masa pieces. If necessary to attain a preselected final moisture content and to equilibrate moisture throughout the chip bed, the steam-contacted masa pieces are dehydrated to attain a snack chip with a preselected final moisture content.

Abstract: A display sign of considerable brightness for prominently displaying a name or message. In one form, the sign is formed in an elongate, rectangular fashion, while in another form, the sign is formed in an elongate, rotatable cylinder. In either form of the sign, the light source extends substantially the length of the sign, and a reflector is poised behind the light source for enhancing illumination.

Abstract: A sign to provide directional information for a check out lane. The sign has a fixed part that is attached to an appropriate surface and which displays advertising or other indicia, and a pivotal part which is hinged to the fixed part and which has directional indicia on opposed faces thereof. In one orientation, the pivotal part is raised to signify that the check out lane is closed. In a second orientation, the pivotal part is folded down over the fixed part to signify that the lane is open. The hinge is provided with an internal stop for positively positioning the pivotal part in either of the two orientations.

Abstract: A direct air heating solar energy collection apparatus and glazing system therefor are described. Unique framing members are utilized to create modular collector assembly panels, to provide a glazing system for the collectors, and to contain reflective trapping members in a precision spaced array. The framing members are formed in cross sectional shapes that admit of multiple uses in the overall frame structure of the apparatus, some of the members being utilized for a plurality of different mechanical functions within the framing system.