Abstract: A method for creating a machine-readable code for a custom cut stock is disclosed. For example, the method is executed by a processor and includes receiving information associated with the custom cut stock, creating the machine-readable code for the custom cut stock, wherein the machine-readable code contains the information and at least one system setting of a printing device, and transmitting the machine-readable code to the printing device to automatically configure the printing device for the custom cut stock.

Abstract: A system for predicting one or more stock-related device settings, includes memory which stores a crowdsourcing component. The crowdsourcing component acquires reports from multiple printers in a fleet of printers. The reports each include performance data and printer attributes used when printing one of a plurality of stocks, the printer attributes including at least one device setting. A learning component learns relationships between printer settings and performance, e.g., in the form of a prediction model, based on the acquired reports. A prediction component uses the learned relationships to predict device settings for the stock for at least one of the printers in the fleet of printers and a processor, in communication with the memory, which implements the components.

Abstract: A system for predicting performance for a stock includes memory which stores a crowdsourcing component, which acquires reports from multiple printers in a fleet of printers. The reports include performance data and printer attributes used when printing one of a plurality of stocks. A learning component learns a prediction model, based on the acquired reports. A prediction component uses the learned prediction model to predict at least one of: whether a selected stock will perform adequately on one of the printers in the fleet of printers, an alternative to the selected stock which is predicted to perform better than the selected stock, on one of the printers in the fleet of printers, and a stock which will perform adequately on one of the printers in the fleet of printers. A processor, in communication with the memory, implements the components. An output device outputs the prediction.

Abstract: Connector assemblies are provided to couple an elongate member extending along the spinal column to a bone engaging implant engaged to the spinal column. The connector assembly includes a coupler having an implant coupling portion and an elongate member coupling portion. The positioning and orientation of the coupler relative to the implant and elongate member can be adjusted to facilitate engagement of the connector assembly between the implant and elongate member.

Abstract: Connector assemblies are provided to couple an elongate member extending along the spinal column to a bone engaging implant engaged to the spinal column. The connector assembly includes a coupler having an implant coupling portion and an elongate member coupling portion. The positioning and orientation of the coupler relative to the implant and elongate member can be adjusted to facilitate engagement of the connector assembly between the implant and elongate member.

Abstract: An anti-splay member is configured for engagement with a bone fastener and includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and a threaded cavity extending along the longitudinal axis. The cavity is configured for engagement with a screw. Opposing retainer members extend transversely from the body and are configured to engage a proximal end of the bone fastener to prevent radial expansion of the proximal end. At least one locking member extends from the body and is configured for engagement with the proximal end of the bone fastener. Methods of use are disclosed.

Abstract: A fastener assembly for engaging vertebral elements has a connecting body that includes a receptacle extending between a first opening and a second opening and a fastener with a head movably supported in the receptacle. The fastener includes a vertebral engaging portion extending distally through the second opening. The fastener assembly further includes a post that has an elongated body with a proximal portion extending proximally from the first opening of the connecting body, a distal engagement end in the receptacle, and an adjusting portion extending between the proximal portion and the engagement end. The adjusting portion is movably engaged to the connecting body to position the engagement end relative to the head of the fastener to substantially fix the head in the receptacle and resist movement of the fastener with respect to the post and the connecting body.

Abstract: An anti-splay member is configured for engagement with a bone fastener and includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and a threaded cavity extending along the longitudinal axis. The cavity is configured for engagement with a screw. Opposing retainer members extend transversely from the body and are configured to engage a proximal end of the bone fastener to prevent radial expansion of the proximal end. At least one locking member extends from the body and is configured for engagement with the proximal end of the bone fastener. Methods of use are disclosed.

Abstract: Systems, instruments and methods are provided for bending an elongate spinal implant used in a medical procedure. In one form, an instrument for bending an elongate spinal implant includes a proximal handle portion and a bending mechanism having an implant engaging member movably coupled to the proximal handle portion. The bending mechanism is operable to articulate the implant engaging member relative to the proximal handle portion while a second implant engaging member associated with the articulating implant engaging member holding the elongate spinal implant in position. In another form, systems and methods are provided to bend in situ an elongate spinal implant associated with an orthopedic construct.

Abstract: Systems, instruments and methods are provided for bending an elongate spinal implant used in a medical procedure. In one form, an instrument for bending an elongate spinal implant includes a proximal handle portion and a bending mechanism having an implant engaging member movably coupled to the proximal handle portion. The bending mechanism is operable to articulate the implant engaging member relative to the proximal handle portion while a second implant engaging member associated with the articulating implant engaging member holding the elongate spinal implant in position. In another form, systems and methods are provided to bend in situ an elongate spinal implant associated with an orthopedic construct.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided that include a plate member engageable to the spinal column with an anchor assembly. The anchor assembly includes a coupling member having a post extending through at least one opening of the plate member and an anchor member pivotally captured in a receiver member of the coupling member below a lower surface of the plate member. A locking member secures the plate member to the coupling member. A crown in the receiver member of the coupling member is engaged by the plate member to secure the anchor member in position relative to the coupling member.

Abstract: A fastener assembly for engaging vertebral elements has a connecting body that includes a receptacle extending between a first opening and a second opening and a fastener with a head movably supported in the receptacle. The fastener includes a vertebral engaging portion extending distally through the second opening. The fastener assembly further includes a post that has an elongated body with a proximal portion extending proximally from the first opening of the connecting body, a distal engagement end in the receptacle, and an adjusting portion extending between the proximal portion and the engagement end. The adjusting portion is movably engaged to the connecting body to position the engagement end relative to the head of the fastener to substantially fix the head in the receptacle and resist movement of the fastener with respect to the post and the connecting body.

Abstract: Protectors and methods of mounting protectors to features on implants within patients. The protectors attach to the features and provide protection to the patient by preventing or reducing injury that may be caused by the feature. The protectors may also be removable such that the feature can be exposed during future revision procedures. A variety of attachment methods may also be used to attach the protector to the feature. Insertion tools may be used for attaching the protectors to the features.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided that include a plate member engageable to the spinal column with an anchor assembly. The anchor assembly includes a coupling member having a post extending through at least one opening of the plate member and an anchor member pivotally captured in a receiver member of the coupling member below a lower surface of the plate member. A locking member secures the plate member to the coupling member. A crown in the receiver member of the coupling member is engaged by the plate member to secure the anchor member in position relative to the coupling member.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention comprises a system for initiating superconductive current flow in a coil formed from material that is superconductive below a certain temperature. The coil is immersed in a cryogenic fluid to cool the coil below its superconductive temperature. Heat is applied to a first segment of the coil to maintain the first segment above a superconductive temperature. A current flow is established in a second segment of the coil from a source of electric current. After the second segment becomes superconductive, the application of heat to said first segment is discontinued, thereby allowing the first segment to cool below the superconductive material and establishing superconductive current flow within the first and second segment of the coil.