Abstract: The adapter member for a microscope cooperates with a universal microscope drape having a universal positioning member. The adapter member is detachably secured to the lens housing of a microscope in tandem with a lens unit located in the lens housing. The adapter member is free from connection with the lens unit and can be installed without disassembling the lens housing. In one embodiment of the invention, the adapter member is threaded to the lens housing and in another embodiment of the invention the adapter member is secured to the lens housing with set screws. The adapter member has a universal engagement portion that is engagable with the universal positioning member of the universal microscope drape. A different adapter member is provided for each differently manufactured microscope but each different adapter member has the same universal engagement portion. Thus the same microscope drape can be used to cover differently manufactured microscopes of the same general size and shape.

Abstract: The aspiration system with positive pressure includes a fluid flow network having a vacuum source at one end and a suction instrument at another end. Suction is regulated by a control valve that can be actuated by a foot pedal. Suction communication between the vacuum source and the suction instrument can be prevented by placing the control valve in the closed position. A positive pressure input device is included in the fluid flow network and is also actuatable by the foot pedal to provide an impulse of positive pressure at the suction instrument. The positive pressure impulse is provided when the aspiration process is being hindered by blockage of the suction inlet end of the suction instrument. A puff of positive pressure is used to expel material from the suction inlet end of the suction instrument. The use of a positive pressure impulse at the suction end of a suction instrument is also applicable to release material transported by the suction instrument from one location to another.