Abstract: A system and method are provided for loading trays with articles using a first tray conveyor on which empty trays are delivered and an article conveyor on which articles are delivered to be transferred onto empty trays. The trays include a frame with a peripheral raised edge and a base having at least one aperture and a transport plate for the articles, the transport trays being positioned on the base of the frame. A lifting apparatus is provided for the transport plate of the tray at a height that is about equal to the height of the article conveyor, such as about 10 millimeters (10 mm) or less to reduce or eliminate drop forces as articles as transferred from the article conveyor onto the tray.

Abstract: A snowboard having a unibody base layer constructed from a seamless and single continuous piece of material and methods for fabricating the snowboard with a unibody base layer having a central recess for nestling layers of the snowboard therein, a tip, tail and sidewalls as well as exterior grooves for attaching edges on the exterior of the unibody base layer. The resulting snowboard having increased resistance to water penetration, increased structural integrity and overall material strength, resistance to rotting of materials, decreased overall weight and improved flexibility.

Abstract: A snowboard having a unibody base layer constructed from a seamless and single continuous piece of material and methods for fabricating the snowboard with a unibody base layer having a central recess for nestling layers of the snowboard therein, a tip, tail and sidewalls as well as exterior grooves for attaching edges on the exterior of the unibody base layer. The resulting snowboard having increased resistance to water penetration, increased structural integrity and overall material strength, resistance to rotting of materials, decreased overall weight and improved flexibility.

Abstract: An apparatus and related method for mixing and/or applying a cementitious product. The apparatus includes a container for holding a cementitious product, a pump for delivering the cementitious product from the container to an applicator head, and an applicator head for shaping and applying the cementitious product to a surface so as to have a desired thickness and contour.