Abstract: A linear reciprocating conveyor system includes an elongated tray connected to a linear electric motor, the tray and motor each being supported on linkages allowing linear reciprocating motion without transferring vibration to system support structure. The linear electric motor is adapted for control by a method which provides a current profile to effect reciprocation of the motor to convey articles or material with the tray in one direction and acceleration of the tray in the opposite direction to provide slippage of the material or articles, thus causing the material or articles to move toward a tray discharge end. The motor armature may be supported with respect to the motor stator by an air bearing system. Plural motors may be connected to the tray and also supported by an air bearing system.

Abstract: A facility for selecting advertising outlets on which to place advertising messages for an advertiser is described. For each of a first group of advertising outlets, the facility assesses the rate at which visitors to the advertiser also visit the advertising outlet. The facility selects an advertising outlet among the first group having the highest assessed rate. For each of a second group of advertising outlets, the facility assesses the tendency of a high-performing advertising outlet to drive its visitors to the advertising outlet among the second group of advertising outlets. The facility selects an advertising outlet among the second group to which the high-performing advertising outlet has the greatest assessed tendency to drive its visitors.