Invariant tensorfields and the canonical connection of a 3-web (Q1102551)

Let M be a differentiable manifold of dimension 2r. The author introduces an infinitesimal non-integrable version of a 3-web. Such a structure is given on M by three (not necessarily integrable) foliations of dimension r. Instead of using the reduced adapted coframe bundles over M, the author defines on M invariant tensor fields associated with the web and uses them to introduce a canonical connection which reduces to the Chern connection in the case of an integrable 3-web [see the author, Publ. Math. 32, 93-99 (1985; Zbl 0586.53005), or \textit{M. Kikkawa}, Mem. Fac. Sci., Shimane Univ. 19, 37-53 (1985; Zbl 0588.53014)]. For an integrable 3-web the author uses the tensorial expression of the covariant derivation of the Chern connection to give a direct proof of the identities which relate the torsion and curvature tensors of the 3-web. In conclusion, using the apparatus developed, he gives an algebraic characterization of the parallel translation with respect to the Chern connection.