Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide an implant having a protrusion. The protrusion aids in the insertion and placement of the implant as well as the spinal fixation element. In certain embodiments the protrusion may be configured as a guide for the insertion of the spinal fixation element as well as closure mechanisms for connecting the spinal fixation element to the implant.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide an implant having a protrusion. The protrusion aids in the insertion and placement of the implant as well as the spinal fixation element. In certain embodiments the protrusion may be configured as a guide for the insertion of the spinal fixation element as well as closure mechanisms for connecting the spinal fixation element to the implant.

Abstract: A device for use by a surgeon to determine the distance between two points within a surgical site, the device having a gripper retractably and flexibly connected to a body by a retractor having a proximal spring portion and a distal portion comprising a cable.

Abstract: This invention relates to a device for measuring two points comprising:

Abstract: A header is mounted on a separate tractor and takes drive from a PTO shaft of the tractor and communicates the drive to a main drive shaft of the header longitudinal of the main beam of the header. The angle drive necessary to communicate this power is formed by three CV joints. A first CV joint is connected to the PTO shaft and a third CV joint is connected to the main drive shaft of the header. Between the first and third CV joints is provided a first shaft extending to the second CV joint and a second shaft from the second CV joint to the third CV joint. The first shaft is carried on a hanger bearing which can pivot about a horizontal axis with the first shaft mounted in a spherical bearing on the hanger bearing plate. The second shaft is telescopic. The three CV joints pivot to divide the total angle approximately equally so that each can run within a reasonable angle. The pivoting hanger bearing and the telescopic shaft accommodate relative movement between the tractor and the header.

Abstract: A control lever system for actuating the hydraulic pump of a hydrostatic transmission system of an agricultural vehicle includes a lever having a hand grip portion for actuation by the operator. The lever passes through an elongate slot in a console surface to control its movement. A lower end of the lever is connected to the pump. A friction resistance system is applied to the lever to generate a frictional force resisting the natural restoring force of the pump tending to move to the neutral postion. The friction resistance is applied only over the length of the slot relating to the forward movement of the pump so that there is no action at the neutral position or in reverse. The friction resistance includes a friction multiplier generated by a sub-lever portion pivotally mounted on the lever and biased by spring action when in contact with an abutment member to pinch a friction band so that the friction force generated by the band is greater than the spring action.