Abstract: A computer system which includes a central processing unit, a bus, and a memory store coupled to the central processing unit that includes a psuedo 3D rendering mechanism. Typically, the rendering mechanism is loaded in the memory store, but can be implemented in an application's specific integrated circuit further coupled to the central processing unit via the bus. The psuedo 3D rendering mechanism is used to generate a psuedo 3D rendered virtual image using only two dimensional prerendered selected views of 3D objects to be displayed. As the viewing orientation shifts from point to point, an adequate three-dimensional rendering is provided based on these selected views. These selected views are designed for display on a display device further connected to the computer system.

Abstract: A data processing system supports preparation of a software application by coordinating the efforts of a metaprogrammer and a plurality of system users responsible to the metaprogrammer. The data processing system includes a plurality of workstations, each having a display and a user input device. Each of the workstations is connected to shared memory for access to data objects stored therein. One data object is a blank project container which includes a plurality of subject objects relating to phases in a product life for a software application. The metaprogrammer is authorized to replicate a blank project container to provide a project specified container available in shared memory to system users selected to work on a particular software application. The project specific container includes a plurality of subject objects relating to phases in a product life for the software application package. Data objects are stored in memory categorized within subject objects of the project container.

Abstract: An integrated communications link in a communications network that is provided with apparatus which allows dynamic allocability of bandwidth among a plurality of channels. At least three different types of information can be carried on these channels, and the bandwidth of these channels are dynamic so that it can be changed according to a determinable scheme. The link also sends error control information with a message that informs the receiver how the bandwidth is to be allocated, this error control information providing an extremely high level of assurance that the receiver of the information will know how the received information is to be allocated.

Abstract: A dental reinforcing pin including a threaded portion, for self-tapping insertion in a bore formed in a tooth understructure, and a connecting portion formed integrally with the threaded portion. The connecting portion includes a shank, adapted for engagement in a dental handpiece, and a weakened portion intermediate the threaded portion and the connecting portion to permit shearing and separation of the connecting portion from the threaded portion when the pin is inserted to the depth of the bore.