Abstract: The preferred embodiment can be incorporated into a powered instrument which rotates a tool. The preferred embodiment permits changing the direction of rotation of the tool without using the hand that does not grip the instrument housing to operate the tool, and without altering the grip on the instrument. The preferred embodiment includes an actuator which moves between two positions to selectively couple two rotating members to an output shaft. The output shaft is rotated in one direction when one rotating member is coupled to the shaft and is rotated in the remaining direction when the remaining rotating member is coupled to the shaft. Movement of the actuator between its two operative positions can be achieved by pushing on the instrument housing to push the tool against the workpiece, or by pulling the instrument housing away from the chuck if the tool is embedded within the workpiece.

Abstract: A device for anchoring catheter tubing to the skin of a patient which includes a resiliently flexible pad attachable to the patient's skin. The pad has a predetermined dimensioned arcuate passageway disposed therein for snugly receiving and redirecting the tube. The passageway is externally accessible along its length by manually spreading the pad along a slit.

Abstract: An orthodontic bracket containing a thin metallic coating on the bracket base; the coating being applied onto the bracket base by thermally spraying a molten metallic powder.

Abstract: A latch for securing the ends of a belt together so as to encircle an inflatable cuff of an artificial sphincter. The latch includes two rotatable components with cavities which receive the belt ends when the components are suitably rotated and capture the belt ends within the latch when the belt is in tension.

Abstract: A palladium alloy suitable for use with both high and low thermal expansion dental porcelains without causing discoloration of the porcelains. The alloy consists essentially of 70-90% palladium, 1-8% silver, 0-5% gold, 5-16% copper, 1-8% gallium, 0.01-0.8% silicon and 0.001-0.5% grain refiners.

Abstract: An orthodontic direct bond appliance has a body with a base. The base includes a rim extending from its periphery at an angle between about 90.degree. and 170.degree. so as to define a recess for receipt of bonding material. The rim shears off any excess flash.

Abstract: A pad eliminatable by heat prior to casting has a patterned surface and a non-porous backing. The pad is sized and shaped into at least part of the appliance and the patterned surface is conformed to the desired bonding surface contour. The patterned surface yields irregularities in the cast bonding surface which increases bondability.

Abstract: A vapor generating roller assembly includes a hollow perforated roller with a heatable inner surface surrounding a bore. A device which is removably insertable into the bore provides the liquid which is vaporized by the heated surface. The vapor is conveyed from the bore through the perforations into a tress of hair wound around the roller.

Abstract: An orthodontic appliance which converts from a buccal tube to a bracket upon the removal of a wire insert which is partly positioned within the longitudinal slot of a bracket body and attached to the surface of the bracket.

Abstract: The present invention is a cutting unit having multiple sets of tandem blades; each set being composed of a first toothed blade moved reciprocatingly in a cutting motion relative to a second tooth blade. The blades are preferably curved.

Abstract: There is disclosed induction heated personal care appliances such as hair rollers, curling irons and massagers. The appliance is generally cylindrical and made of plastic. It has either a high permeability cylinder attached tightly on its inner surface, or has the high permeability material as a particulate filler in the plastic. The induction heater is a non-conducting plastic cylindrical well with from 20 to 60 turns of an insulated wire coiled around its outer perimeter. The coil is powered by an oscillator and produces about 1 to 100 kHz.

Abstract: A hair brush is provided with flock on the outer tubular surface of the brushing portion. The flock is applied directly to the outer surface or mounted on a ribbon which is adhesively applied or mechanically secured to the outer surface. The bristles may also be flocked.