Abstract: A hand held instrument and method in which a working element is to be placed by an operator into contact with a workpiece employ a laser proximity sensor arrangement adapted to sense proximity of the working element to the workpiece. A controller is responsive to the proximity sensor arrangement for activating a power source to actuate the working element in response to the working element reaching a predetermined proximity to the workpiece, as the working element is moved by the operator toward placement into contact with the workpiece. The predetermined proximity is such that the working element will reach a fully-operating condition prior to contact with the workpiece, whereby the working element will be at the fully-operating condition upon contact with the workpiece.

Abstract: A hand held instrument for carrying out some function on a work piece. The instrument is a handpiece that is held by the user and includes a working element at the distal end of the handpiece for working on the work piece. There is a source of power that activates the working element by providing power thereto in various forms. There is also a pressure sensor that senses the pressure between the working element and the handpiece. In one embodiment that pressure sensor senses a predetermined pressure in order to couple the power source to the working element for activating the working element. In another embodiment, the pressure sensor senses a reduction in pressure between the working element and the handpiece to illuminate an indicator light.

Abstract: A hand held instrument for carrying out some function on a work piece. The instrument is a handpiece that is held by the user and includes a working element at the distal end of the handpiece for working on the work piece. There is a source of power that activates the working element by providing power thereto in various forms. There is also a pressure sensor that senses the pressure between the working element and the handpiece. In one embodiment that pressure sensor senses a predetermined pressure in order to couple the power source to the working element for activating the working element. In another embodiment, the pressure sensor senses a reduction in pressure between the working element and the handpiece to illuminate an indicator light.