Abstract: The chair includes a movable seat and back that are configured to enhance the patient's comfort by providing lumbar support when the chair is in the recumbent position and by minimizing patient sliding within a moving chair. Chair movement is controlled by a microprocessor-based control system that includes sensing mechanisms for precisely monitoring the chair position. The sensing mechanisms are employed in conjunction with a memory device to permit the user to define a particular position into which the chair will move any time the appropriate switch is closed by the user. The chair control system diagnoses malfunctioning chair components and generates and displays data indicating the particular malfunctioning component.

Abstract: A compact, in-line electric water heater is provided for heating water to a temperature suitable for dental operations. The heater includes a cylindrical inner tube containing an electrical heater element and a cylindrical outer tube concentrically spaced therefrom, through which water to be heated is circulated. An inlet and outlet for the water is located at one end of a chamber formed between the tubes. A control thermostat is operatively mounted on an area of the outer tube which is flattened so as to contact the inner tube and is responsive to the temperature of the outer tube. A thermal limiter is also mounted to the outer tube to function as a safety device should the control thermostat malfunction.

Abstract: A telescoping arm has a rod slidable within a sleeve defining an interior bore. A bushing attached to the rod slides within the bore and has a substantially rigid block constrained by the bore against substantial rotation or lateral movement. The bushing further includes a spring portion biased against the sleeve to provide frictional resistance to telescoping of the apparatus and to prevent the bushing from rattling in the bore. The spring responsively accommodates small lateral and rotational forces, while the block bears more substantial loads.

Abstract: The chair includes a movable seat and back that are configured to enhance the patient's comfort by providing lumbar support when the chair is in the recumbent position and by minimizing patient sliding within a moving chair. Chair movement is controlled by a microprocessor-based control system that includes sensing mechanisms for precisely monitoring the chair position. The sensing mechanisms are employed in conjunction with a memory device to permit the user to define a particular position into which the chair will move any time the appropriate switch is closed by the user. The chair control system diagnoses malfunctioning chair components and generates and displays data indicating the particular malfunctioning component.

Abstract: The chair includes a movable seat and back that are configured to enhance the patient's comfort by providing lumbar support when the chair is in the recumbent position and by minimizing patient sliding within a moving chair. Chair movement is controlled by a microprocessor-based control system that includes sensing mechanisms for precisely monitoring the chair position. The sensing mechanisms are employed in conjunction with a memory device to permit the user to define a particular position into which the chair will move any time the appropriate switch is closed by the user. The chair control system diagnoses malfunctioning chair components and generates and displays data indicating the particular malfunctioning component.

Abstract: A foot-actuated valve assembly operable for delivering either a mixture of hot and cold water through a faucet, or solely cold water to the faucet. The user selectively actuates one of two sides of a kick plate. Actuation of one side of the kick plate causes a mixture of hot and cold water to flow through the faucet. Actuation of the other side of the kick plate causes only cold water to flow through the faucet.

Abstract: Control system for multiple handpieces and associated devices includes a plurality of module control blocks secured in an assembly with a manifold that receives and distributes fluids to the blocks. Blocks contain cartridge valves, each removable through a single face of the control blocks for ease of access. The control blocks are adapted for attachment of auxiliary control devices. Flow control devices in the blocks are controlled by lifting of handpieces from hangers and/or by foot operated controls.

Abstract: The chair includes a movable seat and back that are configured to enhance the patient's comfort by providing lumbar support when the chair is in the recumbent position and by minimizing patient sliding within a moving chair. Chair movement is controlled by a microprocessor-based control system that includes sensing mechanisms for precisely monitoring the chair position. The sensing mechanisms are employed in conjunction with a memory device to permit the user to define a particular position into which the chair will move any time the appropriate switch is closed by the user. The chair control system diagnoses malfunctioning chair components and generates and displays data indicating the particular malfunctioning component.

Abstract: The apparatus secures a dental instrument holder to the movable backrest of a dental chair. The apparatus maintains a preselected orientation of the holder irrespective of movement of the backrest.

Abstract: An extruded conduit structure for conveying several different fluids is provided comprising a cluster of at least three tubes connected by webs extending between adjacent pairs, the tubes and webs being formed by simultaneous extrusion of a suitable plastic through a suitable die. The outer surface of each of the webs is convexly curved in an arc that is substantially tangential with the outer surfaces of the adjacent pair of tubes. The inner surface of each of the webs is flat relative to the outer surface and forms a cord of such arc whereby each of the webs will be of minimum thickness along each of its junctures with the adjacent webs.

Abstract: A dental apparatus is provided which includes a handle having a hollow interior and an end portion which is slightly curved to facilitate insertion in the oral cavity of a dental patient. Within the hollow interior, an air heater system is provided consisting of an air vortex tube. Air is delivered to one end of the vortex tube in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tube causing the air to rapidly spin within the tube. The spinning air impinges upon an air flow control member at the opposite end of the tube which causes a portion of the air to deflect rearward toward its point of entry. This air is cool in temperature, and expelled from the rear of the tube. The non-deflected air is warm and directed out of the curved end portion of the handle. The invention further includes an adjustment system to control the temperature of air leaving the vortex tube.

Abstract: A dental instrument delivery system is provided which includes an articulated retaining arm adjustable in a plurality of directions. The arm is connected to a cable mechanism in the back rest of a dental chair which allows the instruments carried by the arm to remain in a desired position when the back rest is tilted. Also included is a safety release system which prevents damage to the arm and instruments it carries should they accidentally engage a solid object when the chair and/or back rest is raised or lowered. After disengagement of the solid object, the arm automatically returns to its original position.

Abstract: A fail-secure lock apparatus includes a normally pneumatically actuated locking bolt that can be manually operated to withdraw the same in the event of a power failure. The apparatus incorporates a standard key operated lockset connected to operate the pneumatic power drive means or, in the event of a power failure, is connected to rotate a cable reel mechanically to effect movement of the locking bolt to the unlocked position.