Abstract: A foot-activated controller that communicates with at least one medical device is disclosed. This controller may incorporate a number of features. Multiple displays may be positioned on the controller for depicting the functionality of its various actuators. “Tapping” or partially depressing an actuator may cause an output that is representative of its functionality to be generated on its corresponding controller display, while fully depressing an actuator may initiate execution of its assigned function. The function assigned to each of the various actuators may be programmed by an external computer that may communicate with the controller over an appropriate communication link and via a communication port on the controller. Different audible feedbacks may be assigned to the various actuators, for instance to provide an audible indication of the function being executed.

Abstract: A foot-activated controller (70) that communicates with at least one medical device (96) is disclosed. This controller (70) may incorporate a number of features. Multiple displays (90) may be positioned on the controller (70) for depicting the functionality of its various actuators (82). ‘Tapping’ or partially depressing an actuator (82) may cause an output that is representative of its functionality to be generated on its corresponding controller display (90), while fully depressing an actuator (82) may initiate execution of its assigned function. The function assigned (84) to each of the various actuators (82) may be programmed by an external computer (98) that may communicate with the controller (70) over an appropriate communication link (100) and via a communication port (76) on the controller (70). Different audible feedbacks (86) may be assigned to the various actuators (82), for instance to provide an audible indication of the function being executed.

Abstract: A pivotal apparatus for supporting instruments beneath a patient during certain diagnostic procedures. The apparatus is adapted for pivotal locking engagement in a support member having at least one extensible and retractable mounting pin and includes an elongated shaft, a tray supported by the shaft, a latch mounted on one end of the shaft and a slide release disposed about and axially translatable along the shaft toward the latch. The mounting pin extends in a partial circumferential slot between the latch and the slide release when the apparatus is engaged in the support member whereby the apparatus pivots through a predetermined degree of rotation relative to the support member as the mounting pin travels in the slot. The apparatus is disengaged from the support member by axially translating the slide release toward the latch to urge upon and retract the mounting pin from the slot.

Abstract: A lift base for raising and lowering objects such as an ophthalmological chair comprises a piston rotatably and axially movable within a cylinder and connected to a base support which mounts the chair or other object. A sleeve keyed to the cylinder is movable axially relative thereto but locked against rotation. A locking assembly carried by the support is effective to move the sleeve between an unlocked position out of contact with the sleeve wherein both axial and rotational movement of the base support and piston is permitted, and a locked position into contact with the sleeve wherein rotational movement of the piston and base support is prevented but axial movement thereof is permitted.