Abstract: A method and apparatus for correcting limb alignment in a unicondylar knee arthroplasty and linking the distal femoral cut and the proximal tibial cut. Alignment rods are connected to a spacing apparatus to facilitate correction of limb alignment. The alignment rods are positioned along the mechanical axis of the femur and the tibia and the knee joint is positioned to correct alignment. A spacing apparatus is positioned in the relevant knee compartment and utilized to hold the knee in position to correct limb alignment. The spacing apparatus includes a femoral cut slot through which the distal femoral cut is made and further includes tibial affixment apertures through which a headless securing device can be positioned to secure the spacing apparatus to the tibia. After the distal femoral resection is complete, the spacing apparatus is removed, with the headless securing devices remaining positioned in the tibia.

Abstract: An adjustable batter board used in locating forms and trenches for pouring foundations and constructing walls includes an elongated tubular cross member having holes passing from a top to a bottom surface at each end of the cross member for receiving reinforcing rods therethrough. The rods pass through the top and bottom holes within the tubular cross member and through an eye of an eyebolt positioned within the tubular cross member and aligned with the top and bottom holes. With the rods driven into the ground at desired locations, adjustment of the batter board to a desired vertical location on the rods is made and the eyebolts at each end of the member are forced outwardly toward a tube end through the tightening of a nut at the eyebolt threaded end for biasing the rod against a hole side wall and thus securing the batter board the rods.

Abstract: An apparatus for synthesizing a composite material such as titanium carbide and alumina from exothermic reaction of a sample followed by explosive induced consolidation of the reacted sample. The apparatus includes a lower base for holding a powdered composite sample, an igniter and igniter powder for igniting the sample to initiate an exothermic reaction and a piston for dynamically compressing the sample utilizing an explosive reaction.