Abstract: A method includes positioning a medical device within a body between adjacent spinous processes, moving the medical device from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration within the body using an actuator removably coupled to the medical device, and removing the actuator from the body while the medical device remains between the adjacent spinous processes.

Abstract: A method includes moving a spinal implant such that a central portion of the spinal implant is disposed between adjacent spinous processes, radially extending a proximal portion of the spinal implant on a first side of the adjacent spinous processes such that movement of the proximal portion between the adjacent spinous processes is inhibited, and radially extending a distal portion of the spinal implant on a second side of the adjacent spinous processes opposite the first side such that movement of the distal portion between the adjacent spinous processes is inhibited.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a support member and a retention member. The support member has at least a portion configured to be disposed between a first spinous process and a second spinous process. The retention member is movably coupled to an end portion of the support member. The retention member is configured to displace a bodily tissue. The retention member is configured to move relative to the support member from a first position to a second position. The retention member is configured to limit movement of the support member along the longitudinal axis and relative to the first spinous process and the second spinous process when in the second position.

Abstract: An expandable device is positioned surgically between spinous processes, permitting the incremental distraction of posterior spinal elements when the device is filled with a hardenable material.

Abstract: Various exemplary instruments for introducing an implant using a posterolateral approach are also provided, as well as various exemplary methods for using such instruments. In general, the instruments are configured to interconnect to an implant and/or to a guide member such that the components are all docked relative to one another. This allows the various components of a multi-piece implant to be mated intraoperatively within the disc space, and in particular to be guided into alignment with one another.

Abstract: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes extending from vertebrae of a targeted motion segment. The implant can be positioned between the adjacent spinous processes and once positioned, the implant can be arranged in a second configuration. When arranged in a second configuration, the distraction guide can act as a second wing. The first wing and the second wing can limit or block movement of the implant along a longitudinal axis of the implant.

Abstract: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes extending from vertebrae of a targeted motion segment. The implant can be positioned between the adjacent spinous processes and once positioned, the implant can be arranged in a second configuration. When arranged in a second configuration, the distraction guide can act as a second wing. The first wing and the second wing can limit or block movement of the implant along a longitudinal axis of the implant.

Abstract: An implanted intervertebral prosthesis includes first and second components adapted to attach to a first vertebra and a second vertebra, respectively, that define an intervertebral space. The prosthesis includes a first anchor structure on the first component adapted to enter a grove formed in the first vertebra, and a second anchor structure on the second component adapted to enter a grove formed in the second vertebra. The first anchor structure is offset from the second anchor structure to provide separation of the grooves to preserve vertebral thickness and avoid vertebral splitting. The offset anchor structures can be symmetrically disposed about a midline of the prosthesis or asymmetrically disposed about the midline. In some embodiments, the offset anchor structures comprise elongate anchors shaped as fins or keels. In other embodiments, the offset anchor structures comprise rows of pillars disposed in rows.

Abstract: An intervertebral prosthesis includes a first component adapted to engage a first vertebra and a second component adapted to engage a second vertebra. A row of pillars is disposed on at least one of the components. The row of pillars is adapted to enter a groove and anchor the prosthesis in the intervertebral space. The pillars can be shaped and spaced apart to provide gaps so that bone can grow into the gaps. Additional rows of pillars can be disposed on the components and adapted to enter additional grooves formed in the vertebra.

Abstract: An intervertebral disc prosthesis is provided. The prosthesis includes a first and second plate containing modular anchors that are moveable from a radially un-extended position in a non-deployed configuration to a radially extended position in a deployed configuration. A method of replacing a natural intervertebral disc with a prosthetic disc is also provided.

Abstract: A nucleus pulposus implant that can be converted to an interbody fusion cage is provided. Kits including the nucleus pulposus implant and other delivery components are also provided. Methods of delivering the implant into a damaged disc space are also provided.

Abstract: A supplemental spine fixation device and method is used in association with a primary spine fixation device. The supplemental spine fixation device includes a guide and spacer for distracting apart adjacent spinous processes and the device has hook members which hook about the first and second spinous processes. With the spinous processes distracted and the hook members about the spinous processes, the hook members can be rigidly secured to a hub in order to rigidly affix the spinous processes about the spacer. The rigidity between the spinous processes assures that the vertebral bodies will be held rigidly in place in order to promote bone growth and fusion. Further additional freedom of movement between the spacer and hub is accomplished with the spacer being pivotably mounted relative to the hub. The hooks have a tissue distracting lead-in guide for allowing the hooks to be easily urged between spinous processes.

Abstract: A supplemental spine fixation device and method is used in association with a primary spine fixation device. The supplemental spine fixation device includes a guide and spacer for distracting apart adjacent spinous processes and the device has hook members which hook about the first and second spinous processes. With the spinous processes distracted and the hook members about the spinous processes, the hook members can be rigidly secured to a hub in order to rigidly affix the spinous processes about the spacer. The rigidity between the spinous processes assures that the vertebral bodies will be held rigidly in place in order to promote bone growth and fusion. Further additional freedom of movement between the spacer and hub is accomplished with the spacer being pivotably mounted relative to the hub. The hooks have a tissue distracting lead-in guide for allowing the hooks to be easily urged between spinous processes.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a support member and a retention member. The support member has at least a portion configured to be disposed between a first spinous process and a second spinous process. The retention member is movably coupled to an end portion of the support member. The retention member is configured to displace a bodily tissue. The retention member is configured to move relative to the support member from a first position to a second position. The retention member is configured to limit movement of the support member along the longitudinal axis and relative to the first spinous process and the second spinous process when in the second position.

Abstract: A method of implanting a vertebral implant in a void between a pair of vertebral endplates comprises positioning the vertebral implant between the vertebral endplates and coupling an implantation tool to the vertebral implant. The method further comprises actuating the implantation tool to generate alternating motion relative to the vertebral endplates. The alternating motion has a speed and creates a displacement of the vertebral implant. The method further comprises seating the vertebral implant into a profile formed in at least one of the vertebral endplates and decoupling the implantation tool from the vertebral implant. The vertebral implant remains implanted in the at least one vertebral endplate.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for adjusting a thickness of a prosthesis (e.g., a knee implant).

Abstract: An implant system and apparatus configured to permit motion of the wrist in at least one physiological direction, as well as in a dart thrower's motion, and constrain motion of the wrist in at least one non-physiological direction are provided. The implant according to one embodiment includes a distal component and proximal component. Each of the distal and proximal components includes a primary articulating portion and a secondary articulating portion. Primary and secondary articulating portions include at least one component having either a substantially convex or a substantially concave shape. The secondary articulating portion is configured to be radially and volarly disposed in relation to the primary articulating portion.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus using a surgical navigation system to position the femoral component of a prosthetic hip during hip joint replacement surgery without separately affixing a marker to the femur. The navigation system acquires the center of rotation of the hip joint as well as at least one point on the femur in the pelvic frame of reference. From these two points, the navigation system calculates the position and length of a first line between the center of rotation of the hip joint and the point on the femur. Optionally, a second point on the femur that is not on the first line is palpated. The system can calculate the position and length of a second line that is perpendicular to the first line and that runs from the first line to the second palpated point on the femur. The prosthetic cup is implanted and its center of rotation is recorded. A tool for forming the bore within which the stem of the femoral implant component will be placed is tracked by the navigation system.

Abstract: Medical devices for implantation in a body vessel are provided. A medical device can include a support member enclosing an antimicrobial coating defining a drainage lumen extending through the support member. The antimicrobial coating preferably includes a metal alloy comprising beryllium, nickel, copper, cobalt and/or silicon. The metal alloy is desirably embedded in a porous biostable material, such as an ethylvinylacetate copolymer, configured to retain oxides of the antimicrobial material while being sufficiently porous to permit fluid in the drainage lumen to penetrate the antimicrobial coating. The medical device may be configured, for example, as a biliary or pancreatic stent.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a metatarsal head implant comprising a generally convex, hollow portion that fits over the metatarsal head of the great toe, a serrated stem, and one or more locking screws. The implant of the present invention may work in conjunction with either the patient's existing phalanx or one-piece phalanx implants designed and/or manufactured independently from the metatarsal implant.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for process control, wherein at least one process device to be controlled is controlled by at least one process module and at least one safety module in that process signals of the process module not relevant to safety and safety signals of the safety module relating to process safety are logically linked to one another and at least one local safety signal of a local safety sensor is supplied directly to at least one control output of a local control unit associated with the process device while bypassing this logical linking operation in order to effect a fast change in state at the process device to be controlled which is connected to the control output, wherein the fast switching path includes a fast switching function with which the result of the logical linking operation and the local safety signal are evaluated together and wherein a fast change in state at the process device to be controlled effected via the fast changing path is changed again, and is in partic

Abstract: A display apparatus includes: a display part; a storing part which stores first driving data for driving the display part; a data interface which receives second driving data from an external apparatus; and a controller which updates the first driving data with the second driving data after receiving an instruction to update the first driving data.

Abstract: When a power system experiences a disruptive event, conditions may exist that threaten the survival of power devices used in the system. Embodiments described herein provide an improved means of protecting these devices under such circumstances.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus of recording from an audio stream are provided. The method receives and caches the audio stream. It is determined whether a track corresponding to at least an attribute begins by detecting a period of silence and by analyzing metadata of the audio stream. If so, a start is marked in the cached audio stream. Next, it is determined whether the track ends by detecting a period of silence and by analyzing metadata of the audio stream. If so, an end is marked in the cached audio stream. Finally, an audio file is created based on a section of the cached audio stream indicated by the start and end marked in the cached audio stream.

Abstract: The present invention relates to speaker systems and, more particularly, to a network audio speaker system, in which a speaker management system compresses and transmits original audio signals to be reproduced and control signals, and a speaker system, assigned an IP address, decompresses the received signals and reproduces the signals as original MP3 sound, so that only a single UTP (CAT5) cable is used, thus simplifying the line structure, facilitating maintenance, and preventing noise from occurring, and, so that individual or group automatic broadcasting control is possible, thus improving efficiency in emergency broadcasting in case of emergency.

Abstract: An apparatus includes processor and a control interface. The processor is adapted to in a first mode of operation, operate as part of one of a wireless receiver and a wireless transmitter and in a second mode of operation. The processor also processes a first audio band signal to generate a second audio band signal. The control interface selects one of the first and second modes of operation.

Abstract: In a health exercise assist system, a portable music playback apparatus acquires a preset exercise plan, a history of exercise information, and a music playback history and stores them. An information processing apparatus produces a service request including at least one of the preset exercise plan, the history of exercise information, and the music playback history acquired from the portable music playback apparatus, and transmits it to a service information providing apparatus. In accordance with the service request received from the information processing apparatus, the service information providing apparatus produces service information and returns the produced service information to the information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus provides the received service information to a user of the audio playback apparatus.

Abstract: An audio information processing apparatus for processing input audio information is adapted to input an audio signal composed of front area audio information that should be input to a front speaker and rear area audio information that should be input to a plurality of speakers. A mixer is adapted to mix the rear area audio information in accordance with an instruction from an instruction circuit.

Abstract: Configuration of a business program in a business system is modified by a managing computer using a script. Upon deployment of the business program, at least one business computer compatible with operating conditions of the business program is selected by performing a lookup on a first set of data. Programs prerequisite for the business program is searched for by performing a lookup on a second set of data. Differences in business system configuration information between pre-modification configuration and post-modification configuration of the business system are determined with respect to the business program and the programs prerequisite for the business program. Some of the plurality of script components required to apply the differences to the configuration of the business system is obtained, and arranged in an order determined on the basis of the prerequisite information, to compose the script. The business program is deployed to the at least one business computer by executing the composed script.

Abstract: An intelligent 3D fixture design method, which can solve interference problems between each workpiece, tool and fixture module to design optimal types, specifications and layouts of the fixture system. The design method of the present invention is based on a parametric solid model of 3D CAD software, which uses a space vector to determine if interference exists, and the interference position of such, between the solid models of workpieces, tools and fixture modules, and further utilizes a genetic algorithm to search type and its design shape and position parameters of each fixture modules, to design an optimal fixture system and related specification and layout.

Abstract: The illustrative embodiments provide a computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for processing orders. A request for delivery by a requested delivery date is received for an order having an original delivery date. The ordered product is broken down into one or more materials required for manufacturing the ordered product. For at least one material required for manufacturing the ordered product, a date when an engineering change becomes effective for the material is specified. An alternate bill of materials is created based on the specified date when the engineering change becomes effective for the material. An alternate manufacturing plan based on the alternate bill of materials is created. Manufacturing is initiated based on the alternate manufacturing plan. If manufacturing can be completed in time for delivery by the requested delivery date, the original delivery date of the order is replaced with the requested delivery date.

Abstract: A system for optimizing at least one of a design, production, or testing process of a product in a mass manufacturing process includes: a central processing unit; a network interface operatively connected to the central processing unit; a storage device; a memory including logic for execution by the central processing unit, wherein the logic includes: a server handler made up of a client applet and a client interface servlet which are configured for enabling authorized end-user communication; an error data collection handler configured for gathering error data; an error data classification handler; an analysis handler; a suggested actions report handler; and the system further includes a server database configured for storing, modifying, and deleting data.

Abstract: A kinematic pin and a substrate carrier adapted to deter dislodgment of the substrate carrier from the kinematic pin are provided. A shear member on the kinematic pin interacts with a shear feature of the substrate carrier to deter lateral movement of the substrate carrier relative to the kinematic pin. A substrate carrier handler that employs the kinematic pin is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for connecting components (5), whereby at least one rivet (1) penetrates at least one component (5), and a closing head (6) is molded on the rivet (1) or any given molded part (1) by means of a molding machine. According to the invention, prior to the deformation of the closing head (6) on the rivet (1) or the given molded part (1), a rivet projection (U) is determined for the respective determination of the molding parameters, such as the molding course, molding time, and molding force.

Abstract: A workpiece inspection system is disclosed for determining measurements of a workpiece on a machine tool. The system utilises a measurement device which outputs data relating to the workpiece (e.g. in place of a conventional cutter). The problem of obtaining real time data relating to the position of the machine tool is overcome by recording a machine tool position data set and a measurement device data set at selected instants which are defined by a synchronisation signal. The data sets are combined later in the correct relative position because the synchronisation signal was used. The synchronisation signal can issue from the machine tool controller, an interface, measurement device or another part of the system.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a dismantling process of scrapped vehicle includes an input means for inputting vehicle information, a weighing means for measuring a weight of dismantled parts collected in each process and a weight of collected liquid materials, and a detecting means for detecting a work start point and end point. The information measured by the means are input to a central computer so that the central computer collects vehicle information, time information for each process, weight information of collected parts and liquid materials, and thereby monitors the entire dismantling processes in real-time and the information, such as, a kind of vehicle, a working time for each process, a weight of collected part and liquid material, a reusing rate and so on, can be stored in a database.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for increasing the processing throughput of multiple lots of semiconductor wafers through a cluster tool while maintaining a constant wafer history for each lot are provided. A first lot of wafers containing one through n-th wafers is introduced into a cluster tool containing one or more processing chambers. The first lot of wafers is processed for a first time period. A second lot of wafers containing one through n-th wafers is introduced into the cluster tool prior to completion of the first time period, wherein the second lot is introduced so as to minimize a time gap between the n-th wafer of the first lot of wafers and the first wafer of the second lot of wafers while maintaining a first constant wafer history for each wafer within the first lot and maintaining a second constant wafer history for each wafer in the second lot.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for improving substrate throughput prior to processing a plurality of substrates in a cluster tool having a plurality of processing chambers and at least two robots are provided. The method comprises developing a process sequence, storing the process sequence on a storage device, and transferring the process sequence from the storage device to a controller in communication with the cluster tool. The process sequence comprises depositing one or more uniform resist layers on the surface of the plurality of substrates, transferring the plurality of substrates out of the cluster tool to a separate stepper or scanner tool to pattern the surface of the plurality of substrates by exposing the resist layer to a resist modifying electromagnetic radiation, and then developing the patterned resist layer.

Abstract: When an article is taken out from an automatic warehouse (6), value information is written in an unmodifiable manner into an ID tag fitted to the article. When the value information is needed to know, the value information is read from the ID tag (30) of the article (28) by an ID reader (24). The amount of refund when an article is returned and the amount of compensation when an article is broken can be objectively known.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically determining library patrons' interests without having to identify the patron or otherwise invade his/her privacy based on the library patron's current use of library assets. The system and method involve categorizing the library's assets using broad mapping user interest categories, associating a user interest category with a specific library asset that is checked out, reserved or otherwise used by a library patron and providing that patron with a confirmation item containing that user interest category, providing the library patron with feedback about the library assets and the broad mapping user interest categories, allowing library patrons to access and register for a library rewards program using the user interest category number and having advertisers provide relevant information and rewards to library patrons who request such additional information.

Abstract: A vending or transaction-based machine having an aerial display system is provided. The aerial display system having a low-cost plastic spherical mirror includes an aerial display system having an inexpensive optical device and a high luminance liquid crystal display (LCD) imaging display to provide expensive envelope images. A display design thereof is designed to attention of potential consumers and sale advertising, promotion coupons or three-dimensional images of products. Once consumers begin to interact with the vending machine, demographic data are collected or correlated with the product purchased or dispensed. The consumer can initiate and conclude a purchase by merely pointing at the desired product. A mechanism is provided that accepts payment by currency, credit card or electronically.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for automatically managing a price of a product in a vending machine. The method and apparatus is disclosed for implementing dynamic price adjustments at various times including after stocking, after a sale of a product and at periodic intervals. The method generally includes the steps of updating inventory data, including a quantity of a product, accessing price management data associated with the product, and determining the price of the product. According to the method and apparatus of the present invention, the determined price of the product is based on the price management data and the inventory data. The determined price is then stored in a memory of the apparatus and displayed for customers. The apparatus may be a vending machine, a processing module within the vending machine, or an external module remotely transmitting the dynamically adjusted price to a vending machine.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and system that utilizes one or more cassettes or trays that hold medicaments for dispensing. In one embodiment a medicaments container includes control logic configured to enable the medicaments container to operate with an apparatus; control logic configured to determine whether the medicaments container is authorized for operation with the apparatus; and control logic configured to generate an alert if the medicaments container is not authorized for operation with the apparatus.

Abstract: In a method for automated colour mixing in a customer-operated and enclosed arrangement, a container with colour base component can be inserted and shaken, the tin with the shaken colour base component is provided with a hole, one or more doses of colour pigment are added via the hole, the hole is closed and shaking is then carried out again. Devices for carrying out the said functions are controlled by microcomputer equipment that is arranged to work interactively with the customer. The making of the hole is carried out using a knife edge or injection device that penetrates the material of the container. The dosing of the colour pigments is carried out by means of a pump and valve arrangement in which one or more valves are opened and closed or by means of a pressure or piston arrangement. The dosing is initiated in the open state of the valve or by activation of the pressure or piston device.

Abstract: An automated medication preparation system for delivering a dosage of medication to a drug delivery bag having a fill port through which the medication is delivered into the bag includes an automated transport device for controllably delivering each drug delivery bag from one location to another location via a driven member. The system has a carrier that releasably captures and holds a portion of the bag and orients each bag such that the fill port of each bag is positioned at a uniform location relative to the carrier. The carrier is coupled to the transport device such that movement of the driven member is translated into movement of the carrier and the captured drug delivery bag. An automated drug delivery device is part of the system and includes a drug delivery member that sealingly mates with the fill port for delivering the dosage of medication to the bag.

Abstract: The subject invention relates to systems and methods that facilitate motion between different coordinate systems in an industrial control environment. The systems and methods accept data in one coordinate system and transform the data to a different coordinate system. Suitable transformations include instructions that transform between Cartesian, pre-defined non-Cartesian, and user-defined non-Cartesian coordinate systems, including transformations between a non-Cartesian coordinate system to another non-Cartesian coordinate system. Such transformations can be programmed in essentially any industrial control language and can be seamlessly integrated with the control environment. The systems and methods can be utilized to generate a motion instruction that includes, among other information, source and target coordinate systems and the transformation between them.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for autonomous fueling transaction data collection and processing from mobile fuel dispensing equipment. The apparatus features an intrinsically safe first programmed apparatus including a user interface, a second programmed apparatus for controlling fuel dispensing equipment, and a host computer system. The apparatus additionally includes a printer and charger/data cradles for holding the first programmed apparatus. Further, the components are in bi-directional wired or wireless communication with each other. The method involves collecting mobile fuel truck fuel authorization data, verifying fuel authorization data authorizing a fuel transaction, and providing real time fueling data to a user.

Abstract: The present invention provides one or more autonomous in-duct or register grill mounted flow control devices, each of which has the capability to restrict or boost air flow through the duct or vent to which it is attached. The individual flow control devices may be in communication with other flow control devices in the duct works, having an ability to adapt in a cooperative fashion to optimize the environment served by the ductwork. In a preferred embodiment, each of the flow control devices provides its own power and does not require changing the existing ductwork or register boxes for installation.

Abstract: A variable toe angle control system for a vehicle that can be incorporated with a fail-safe mechanism When a fault of the system is detected, at least one of toe-angle actuators is actuated to make toe angles of two wheels agree with each other. When one of the wheels has become fixed in position without regard to a control signal supplied to the corresponding actuator, the actuator for the other wheel is actuated so as to make the toe angles of the two wheels equal to each other. When at least one toe-angle sensor is found faulty, the actuators are both actuated until the actuators reach positions corresponding to stoppers. When information for determining target values of the toe angles of the right and left wheels is found faulty, the actuators are both actuated until the actuators reach positions corresponding to prescribed reference toe positions.

Abstract: A system that facilitates damping of mechanical vibration associated with machinery that is subject to such mechanical vibration. The system comprises machinery with at least one moveable part and a piezoelectric actuator that is selectively applied to the machinery. The piezoelectric actuator receives voltages and is employed to facilitate damping of mechanical vibration associated with the machinery.