Abstract: A sterilizable removable handle is provided in associated with an X-ray tube head assembly to permit manipulation of the assembly within a sterile field while avoiding contamination of an operator's hand.

Abstract: Heat-labile articles are sterilized by subjecting them to pulses of sporicidal vapors and maintaining them for a holding period in contact with such vapors.

Abstract: A container for holding dental or medical implements within the sterilization chamber of a clinical sterilizer includes a bottom tray and a cover element which cooperatively effect a Morton-type closure. The cover element is adapted to permit viewing of the sterilized contents of the container without disturbing the closure. The cover element may be a transparent flexible sheet held against the sidewall of the bottom tray by a clamp, with the sidewall, cover and clamp together effecting the Morton-type closure.

Abstract: A temperature sensor/pressure relief valve has a sensing end positioned within the pressure chamber of a sterilizer and an exhaust end positioned outside the pressure chamber. The temperature sensor is cooperatively adapted to a terminal apparatus at the sensing end to form a pressure relief valve.

Abstract: A combination unsaturated chemical vapor sterilization system and a steam sterilization system utilizing the same sterilizing chamber. It includes a pressure chamber in communication with a source of sterilizing chemicals and water, transport means to selectively deliver sterilizing chemicals or water into the chamber, a heating element to heat the interior of the chamber, and a microprocessor control panel operably associated with the heating element and transport means to control the sterilant composition, the temperature and the pressure within the chamber at any given time in accordance with a preselected setting.

Abstract: A track system for a slidable tray of a dental instrument delivery system includes a stationary slide guide member, a movable slide body member and a floating bearing assembly interposed between these members in coupling arrangement.

Abstract: A dental instrument delivery system of the type in which hand pieces are stored at the front edge of an instrument deck and are connected to utilities by means of flexible tubes with coiled memories is provided with structure to contain and support the weight of the tubing. The hand pieces may be held by removable hangers of heat resistant material so that the hangers may be separately sterilized. The instrument deck may further be provided with a slidably mounted tray adapted for cantilever suspension from either side of the deck.

Abstract: A dental operating chair includes a movable back member which can be adjusted to position a patient in a substantially supine posture. Arcuately formed arm supports which curve toward the patient are removably secured along the opposite longitudinal sides of the back member to retain the arms of a patient proximate his body truck. The arm supports include means which permit them to pivot toward and away from the patient. The internal surfaces of the supports are shaped to clasp the patient's arms and the edges of the supports are shaped for easy contact by the body of a dentist to cause them to pivot toward the patient.

Abstract: The ultrasonic cleaning device includes an ultrasonic radiation insulated container for holding a cleaning detergent. A first perforated basket for holding medical or dental tools is carried within the container. The open end of the container is closed by a cover having a peripherally attached rubber gasket and having its bottom side molded with waffle-like indentations for reflecting and/or absorbing ultrasonic radiation. The container and first perforated basket are sized such that one or more baskets can be carried on top of the first basket or, in the alternative, can be fitted with a stainless steel template having a pair of openings for receiving a glass container. The ultrasonic cleaning device is adapted with an automatic timer and a voltage regulator for varying the voltage input which, in turn, varies the ultrasonic frequency introduced into the cleaning detergent. The device is designed to produce a frequency of about one megacycle and can complete the cleaning cycle within 5-15 minutes.