Abstract: The invention provides a method and system for determining rates of insurance for travelers based on certain risk parameters. Insurance rates are computed using factor relativities derived from insured data and parameters for several different insurance coverages. Factor relativities are computed through an iterative process using a minimum bias procedure according to each coverage. Parameters are evaluated simultaneously for each coverage to eliminate cross bias from one parameter to another. Once factor relativities are calculated, the system and method allows for a consumer to request a rate on an insurance coverage. The system and method provides the rate using the factor relativities for the requested coverage. The method and system also provides insurance rates to additional or upgraded insurance coverages based on consumer preferences.

Abstract: The press for fusing beads heats the tops of beads to fuse the beads together, fixing them in a pattern. The press includes an enclosure having a slot defined in the front face. A heating plate having a heating element is mounted within the enclosure. A tray, which holds the beads to be fused, is placed on a tray support that slides within the open slot to a position under the heating plate. A control circuit senses the position of the tray support, and when the tray is in position beneath the heating plate, allows an operator to initiate a timed heating cycle and locks the tray in place. When the heating cycle is initiated, the heating plate is brought into close proximity with the tray, placing the tops of the beads into contact with the heating plate and energizing the heating element to heat the heating plate to a predetermined temperature.