Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for rendering graphics primitives in parallel while maintaining the API primitive ordering. Multiple, independent geometry units perform geometry processing concurrently on different graphics primitives. A primitive distribution scheme delivers primitives concurrently to multiple rasterizers at rates of multiple primitives per clock while maintaining the primitive ordering for each pixel. The multiple, independent rasterizer units perform rasterization concurrently on one or more graphics primitives, enabling the rendering of multiple primitives per system clock.

Abstract: A secure gateway multiple automated data storage system sharing is provided. Data is transmitted from a first data storage unit within a first automated data storage system to a second data storage unit. A request is then received from a second data storage system for the second data storage unit. The second data storage unit is then transported to the second data storage system.

Abstract: A thermostatically controlled electric immersion heating element for heating fluid contained in a dishwasher having a vertical wall includes an elongated heating element of flattened configuration in transverse cross section having opposing generally parallel wide faces and opposite narrow side edges connecting the faces. The heating element is mounted in cantilever fashion from the vertical wall by a mounting flange in an operating position in which a reach of the heating element extends a maximum distance from the flange with the wide faces disposed in vertical planes. A tubular housing is secured in continuous heat transfer contact with substantially the entire length of the upper side edge of the heating element reach and contains a temperature sensing element for controlling the operation of the heating element in response to the temperature of the heating element.

Abstract: An engine preheater comprising a tubular tank adapted to be mounted generally horizontally and having an inlet adjacent one end of the tank for flow of engine coolant into the tank and an outlet adjacent the opposite end of the tank for flow of heated engine coolant out of the tank. The preheater includes an electric heating element in the tank spaced from the inlet of the tank for heating engine coolant in the tank and a temperature sensor inside the tank adjacent the inlet of the tank. The sensor is so positioned relative to the inlet and the heating element that it is adapted accurately to sense the temperature of engine coolant flowing into the tank via the inlet before the incoming engine coolant is substantially heated by the heating element.

Abstract: Improved depressible tab provided with a nose for easy open end closure members and the like, wherein an improved pressure relief means in the form of a unique vent arrangement is incorporated in the nose portion of the depressible tab.

Abstract: An aerodynamic device mounted to a mainsail at the area of maximum air activity includes a venturi and a plurality of vertically disposed strips or offsets defining extending fins. The flow axis of the venturi is substantially parallel to the foot of the mainsail and the vertical fins are disposed in a substantially horizontal row along the venturi flow axis. Certain ones of the fins are positioned respectively forward and after the venturi and other ones of the fins are superimposed on the venturi. The aerodynamic device is operative to reach the free air layer beyond the zero activity and turbulent air layers for greater air drive and improved on-wind direction.