Abstract: A system for storing and sterilizing orthopedic devices in a series of cases that may be attached together to provide a custom type container for a particular end user. The containers have modular compartments for housing the orthopedic devices. The containers may be shipped with the orthopedic devices in a sterilized environment as well as be resterilized in an autoclave for future use. A method of use and inventory control is also disclosed wherein a container using a generic marking system is used on the lid for the container. An inventory control sheet is used to record the part number and manufacturing lot number of the components housed in the compartments. The sheet corresponds to the generic marking system. A more accurate accounting of the inventory is achieved.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a knowledge base continuously developed through a method of repetitiously connecting various sources of locally and remotely located sources of data. The various sources of data can include reports, articles, books, audio recording, multi-media or computer data. The system uses a systematic approach of selecting a search criteria, selecting a set of search objects, identifying connections (relationships) between the search criteria and the search objects, creating an attribute (description of the relationship) and storage of the connection and its attribute. By following this approach additional connections can be made between already connected objects to exhaustively collect all possible relationships between objects. Through the use of unique identifiers the connections are made between systems located across networks.

Abstract: A biocompatible prosthetic device for the replacement of the temporomandibular joint is provided. The prosthetic device includes an artificial condylar component having a substantially spherical convex articular surface of a first spherical radius for replacing the articular surface of the condylar head. The prosthetic device further includes artificial mandibular fossa component having a substantially spherical concave articular surface of a second spherical radius greater than the first spherical radius. The present invention further includes a surgical method for installation of this prosthetic device.

Abstract: A method of labeling mold cavities in a blow-molding machine using an in-mold labeling system including first and second label magazines, first and second rotary members each having a label transfer unit with a suction cup, and using the steps of rotating each member to position the suction cup adjacent a magazine, transferring a label in the magazine to the cup, rotating the member to position the held label adjacent a pickup position, transferring the label to a suction cup of an in-mold labeling unit and actuating the unit to place the labels in mold cavities of a blow molding machine. When the suction cup of the transfer unit is adjacent the magazine, a high vacuum is drawn to remove one label from the magazine and then the vacuum level is reduced to a low vacuum. During transfer of the label from this suction cup to the suction cup of the labeling unit, the low vacuum is maintained on the transfer unit suction cup while a high vacuum connection is formed between the labeling unit cup and the label.

Abstract: An in-mold labeling system includes an in-mold labeling apparatus and rotary label transfer apparatus for withdrawing labels from label magazines and presenting the labels for pick up by the in mold labeling apparatus.