Abstract: A system and method for generating and utilizing a computer model of the craniofacial features of a patient is claimed. To create the computer model, three-dimentional data regarding the patient's facial features, dental features and skeletal features is collected. Data regarding facial features is acquired using laser scanning and digital photograph. Data regarding dental features are acquired by physically modeling the teeth and laser scanning the models. Lastly, data regarding the skeletal features is obtained from radiographs. The data are combined into a single computer model that can be manipulated and viewed in the three-dimensions. The model also has the ability to be animated between the current modeled craniofacial features and theoretical craniofacial features.

Abstract: A method includes providing a superconducting material having pinning sites that can pin magnetic vortices within the superconducting material. The method also includes pinning one or more magnetic vortices at one or more of the pinning sites. An information storage apparatus includes a superconducting material, doped particles within the superconducting material that can pin dipole magnetic vortices, a magnetic tip that generates pinned magnetic vortices and a magnetic detector that detects pinned magnetic vortices.

Abstract: A system and method for generating and utilizing a computer model of the craniofacial features of a patient is claimed. To create the computer model, three-dimentional data regarding the patient's facial features, dental features and skeletal features is collected. Data regarding facial features is acquired using laser scanning and digital photograph. Data regarding dental features are acquired by physically modeling the teeth and laser scanning the models. Lastly, data regarding the skeletal features is obtained from radiographs. The data are combined into a single computer model that can be manipulated and viewed in the three-dimensions. The model also has the ability to be animated between the current modeled craniofacial features and theoretical craniofacial features.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for minimizing the flow instability of molten plastics caused by slippage of the melt at the die wall during the extrusion process. The slippage, and therefore the flow instability, is minimized by removing the air from, or "degassing", the polymer prior to the extrusion process, preferably by subjecting the molten polymer to a vacuum for an extended time, typically 24 hours. Further, air is preferably prevented from being introduced into the molten polymer, the extrusion die or the extrusion process from the ambient conditions surrounding the extrusion process during the extrusion process by creating a vacuum over the polymer hopper, the feed region of the extrusion system, the exit portion of the die, the entire extrusion system or any combination thereof.