Abstract: A multiple-dose syringe including a barrel with a closed end and an open end, the closed end having an injection port adapted to receive a needle. A plunger is slidably disposed through the open end of the barrel. A container is connected to an end of the plunger to move with the plunger. The container has a deformable shell with an opening at a forward end thereof and a predetermined quantity of fluid sealed therein by a closure member disposed over the opening. The container is slidably disposed in the barrel and includes a seal proximal to the forward end to form a first cavity in the barrel with a volume that is adjustable by moving the container in the barrel with the plunger so that fluid can be selectively drawn into and expelled from the first cavity. After at least a substantial portion of the fluid is expelled from the first cavity, the shell is configured to be collapsed by further pressure applied by the plunger to expel the predetermined quantity of fluid contained therein.

Abstract: A pneumatic isolator for isolating payloads from vibrations consisting of a vertical isolator suspended from pendulum wires. A second downward-facing piston prevents changes in barometric pressure from generating disturbing forces on the isolated payload.

Abstract: The invention is a colorimeter for dental applications comprising a hand-held probe, similar in size to a dental drill, attached by an electrical cable to a small self-contained display module. The calorimeter provides the capability for measuring the colors of a number points along a line on the surface of an object such as a tooth. A measurement is made while placing the tip of the probe against, or in close proximity to, the surface of the object. The display module to which probe attaches contains a microprocessor and provides a control, display and data interface to the operator. The display module can be adapted for fastening to the wrist of the operator thereby leaving both hands free to manipulate the probe and other tools. The calorimeter is particularly well suited for measuring the color of teeth in a dentist's office in preparation for making dental prostheses which accurately match the color of natural teeth.

Abstract: A flashlight in accordance with the present invention includes a chamber, end cap, head assembly and lamp holder assembly. The end cap includes a bowed tripod portion to facilitate standing the flashlight on a flat surface. The head assembly includes a reflector and a lens. In one embodiment of the invention, the head assembly includes an elliptical reflector. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the flashlight having a elliptical reflector is matched with a negative or planar lens. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the head assembly includes an hyperbolic reflector. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the flashlight having a hyperbolic reflector is matched with a positive or planar lens. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the flashlight includes electrode connections which prevent the conduction of electrical energy from batteries which are improperly aligned within the flashlight.

Abstract: A multiple-dose syringe including a barrel with a closed end and an open end, the closed end having an injection port adapted to receive a needle. A plunger is slidably disposed through the open end of the barrel. A container is connected to an end of the plunger to move with the plunger. The container has a deformable shell with an opening at a forward end thereof and a predetermined quantity of fluid sealed therein by a closure member disposed over the opening. The container is slidably disposed in the barrel and includes a seal proximal to the forward end to form a first cavity in the barrel with a volume that is adjustable by moving the container in the barrel with the plunger so that fluid can be selectively drawn into and expelled from the first cavity. After at least a substantial portion of the fluid is expelled from the first cavity, the shell is configured to be collapsed by further pressure applied by the plunger to expel the predetermined quantity of fluid contained therein.

Abstract: A flashlight in accordance with the present invention includes a chamber, end cap, head assembly and lamp holder assembly. The end cap includes a bowed tripod portion to facilitate standing the flashlight on a flat surface. The head assembly includes a reflector and a lens. In one embodiment of the invention, the head assembly includes an elliptical reflector. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the flashlight having a elliptical reflector is matched with a negative or planar lens. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the head assembly includes an hyperbolic reflector. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the flashlight having a hyperbolic reflector is matched with a positive or planar lens. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the flashlight includes electrode connections which prevent the conduction of electrical energy from batteries which are improperly aligned within the flashlight.

Abstract: A forming tool in accordance with the present invention is provided which includes a forming wheel, a shaft, a tool holder, bearings, washers, locking plate, locking bolt, and nut. The forming tool is for use with a lathe to form a journal on the ends of extruded tubing consisting of a variety of materials having various wall thicknesses. The forming operation in accordance with the present invention occurs when the lathe's turret moves the forming tool to cause the forming wheel to contact a portion of the extruded tube, which is rotated by the lathe's spindle. As a result of the contact, metal material is displaced on the extruded tube, and a journal is formed on the extruded tube. In accordance with one aspect, the forming tool is returned to its starting position by contacting a portion of the extruded tube as the forming wheel is moved away from the spindle of the lathe.

Abstract: The present invention is a system which topically delivers pharmaceuticals to the buccal mucosa. Preferred pharmaceuticals include topical local anesthetics, such as tetracaine, which can be applied to the mucosa for rapid pain relief. The system comprises a hard candy matrix in which the pharmaceutical is dispersed. The hard candy matrix may be formed without the addition of dyes, synthetic flavoring agents, alcohols, or preservatives. Also, the candy may be mounted on a handle to form a lollipop, and the handle may be used to position the candy adjacent a particular site where the pharmaceutical is needed.