Abstract: This invention teaches that a single auxiliary key (1006) can support a multiplicity of ordered groups (1003-1004) and that only a subset of each group (1003-1004) needs to be visually represented on the face of a key, and that either multi-tap or predictive methods, or both, can be used to input members of each groups, and that auxiliary keys (1005-1007) are a convenient and effective method to select ordered groups, and to perform the multi-tap function. This invention teaches: limited multi-tap depth, reduced keystrokes per symbol, discoverability, graduated discoverability, compact presentation and seamless integration of multi-tap and predictive methods.

Abstract: A method for separating from a group of articles being conveyed along a conveyor system the leading article of the group, wherein the group of articles is conveyed by a first independently operable upstream conveyor (3) towards a second independently operable downstream conveyor (4), and the first conveyor (3) is stopped or reduced in speed relative to the second conveyor (4) after all or a substantial part of the leading article has passed onto the second conveyor (4). This introduces a speed differential between the leading article and the rest of the group and resulting in the leading article being drawn away from the rest of the group. Once the leading article has travelled forward on the second conveyor (4) by a distance sufficient to space it from the rest of the group, the first conveyor (3) is restarted.

Abstract: An optical system incorporating between two opposed contacting surfaces projections having a height of between 1 micron and 130 microns to space the surfaces a distance greater than twice the wave length of light in the visible spectrum to reduce interference patterns (Newton Rings) in a projected image and not substantially reduce the light transmission.