Abstract: A method of computer curve and surface modeling includes storing in a computer memory a cloud of points associated with an object and least-square fitting one or more curves or surfaces to the cloud of points. The resulting curves or surfaces representative of the object are easier to describe mathematically and require less computer resources to process.

Abstract: A high intensity cooling device is disclosed. The cooling device includes first and second superimposed laminations, with each of the laminations including a cavity having a spiral fin defining a spiral flow chamber. One of the flow chambers directs a coolant medium along an inwardly spiraling flow path, while the other of the flow chambers directs the coolant medium along an outwardly spiraling flow path, with the flow chambers being in flow communication. A coolant inlet communicates the coolant medium to the first flow chamber, and a coolant outlet communicates the coolant medium away from the second flow chamber. Thus, the coolant medium may be routed along a spiral flow path through each of the laminations.

Abstract: Large crop areas are irrigated, for instance by pivot irrigation, by being sprayed with water into which a substantially stable dispersion in a liquid of water soluble polymer particles has been metered at a predetermined low rate.

Abstract: Soil adjacent to an elongated furrow is irrigated by flowing the water from a header into and along the furrow, and erosion of the furrow is reduced and infiltration into the soil is increased by dissolving solid flocculant in the header or in the furrow into the water. The solid flocculant is best provided as a block of particulate flocculant bonded by a water-soluble wax. The irrigation process is best conducted on a cyclic basis with the solid flocculant being removed from the header or furrow during the cycle and with the supply of water being continued so that there is subsequent run-off of water from the furrow.

Abstract: A fiber spreader is provided which reduces fiber damage that occurs during preading. The fiber spreader includes a thin electrically grounded support sheet for supporting a layer of fibers on one surface thereof. The fibers supported on the support sheet are guided by a plurality of guide rollers past at least one corona discharge region at which the fibers are spread substantially uniformly. A motor driven spool advances the support sheet past the corona discharge region. The fibers are attached to the support sheet by an electrostatic attraction. The guide rollers are positioned so as to provide at least one region in which the sheet and the fibers are physically separated to allow for the uniform spreading of the fibers. After the fibers are spread, the fibers and the support sheet are united again and collected on a motor-driven spool.

Abstract: A narrow woven tubular fabric having an upper layer and a lower layer resiliently separated by a plurality of monofilament warp yarns alternately and intermittently woven with said layers.