Abstract: A foot switch for use in the control of medical apparatus comprises a pedal that is connected to and movably seated on a floor plate of a joint connection, a sensor linked to a switch element, and a repositioning device disposed between the floor plate and the pedal. The repositioning device ensures that an operating force must be applied to the upper surface of the pedal to produce a tilting movement of the pedal out of an initial position into an operating position in which a smaller angle is defined between the floor plate and the pedal than in the initial position and in which the sensor is activated to trigger the output of a switch pulse from the switch element. The improvement of the present invention consists of the combination of the repositioning device and the joint into an elastic joint device. The simplified foot switch is easily disinfected.

Abstract: A foot switch for operation of at least two different functional members of a dental apparatus which is operatively connected with the foot switch has at least two press switches which are each formed as a diaphragm switch comprising a printed circuitry with an arrangement between two carrier foils which as a package are supported on a base plate of the foot switch within a hollow formed by an overlaid cover plate and connected by a signalling line with at least two different functional members of the dental apparatus for transmitting functional control signals upon depression of the cover plate.

Abstract: A portable dental apparatus for treating patients or animals in remote locations comprises a dental drill driven by an air turbine; a pressurized air supply for driving the turbine and for pressurizing a water supply; and connections and valving for operating the drill and cooling it with a stream of water from the water supply and for squirting air or water from the air and water supplies with a squirt nozzle. Tile pressurized air supply derives its air from manual pumping, preferably with a double-action pump and a check valve to minimize fluctuations in the air flow rate. Such a pump either forms part of the air supply or is used to fill an inflatable container. The air supply may consist of the inflatable container alone, or of one or two double-action pumps, or of the container and one pump.

Abstract: A pneumatically operated, simplified valve actuating device for dental equipment, the valve being capable of avoiding an undesirable dripping of dental instruments at the end of the work. The device includes a valve actuating element identified in a four-way valve, whose body includes a housing for a piston connected to a bobbin, wherein said casing is on one side connected to a selector unit and on the other side to a one-way retention valve, capable of receiving pressurized air from a reducer unit and passing it from said selector unit to a constantly pressurized air line coming directly from said reducer unit and to at least one dental instrument.

Abstract: A dental vacuum system having a foot-actuated valve for controlling the flow of vacuum through the system. The foot-actuated valve is located away from the field of operation such that the valve is not exposed to the typical sources of pathogenic contaminants in a dental office.

Abstract: A system for activating a dental handpiece connected to a supply hose after removal of the handpiece from a holder is provided. The handpiece includes a circuit with a switch element that acquires a change of an electrical or magnetic field or that can be influenced by such a field when the handpiece is taken from a holder or, respectively, is returned into a holder. The switch element is allocated to the end part of the supply hose facing toward the handpiece; the part that changes or, respectively, influences the field is disposed at the holder.

Abstract: A new apparatus and method for delivering sterile irrigating solution to dental sites during restorative and surgical procedures is disclosed. A new sterilizable handpiece line adapter is connected between prior art dental handpieces and dental unit air-water hoses. The handpiece line adapter includes an input port for sterile irrigating solution and an outlet port for the sterile irrigating solution replacing a prior art outlet port for tap water. A standard IV bag containing sterile irrigating solution is pressurized with a standard infuser bag. Standard IV tubing connects the IV bag to the input port of the line adapter. An air-controlled, normally-closed pinch valve girdles part of the IV tubing. The pinch valve is connected to a spare outlet of a standard foot pedal controlled dental unit so that, when the foot pedal is depressed to operate the dental handpiece, the pinch valve automatically opens to allow delivery of sterile irrigating solution from the IV bag.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dental drilling system having a programmable control unit. The control unit controls operating parameters of the drilling system, such as the direction of rotation, the speed of rotation and the torque of a tool bit of a dental drill, as well as the irrigation fluid flow rate generated by a pump and the intensity of light generated by a light source. The control unit can be programmed with a number of sets of data values. Each set of data values represents a desired value for each of the operating parameters to be controlled. Also, each set of data values corresponds to a different step in a dental operation. Thus, for each step of a dental operation, a surgeon can choose a desired set of operating parameter values from those sets that have been preprogrammed. The control unit then controls the operating parameters to achieve and maintain the values represented by the selected set of data values.

Abstract: A dental solution supply system including a container for holding a solution; an air supply for supplying air; a dispensing unit, coupled to receive air supplied by the air supply, and coupled to the container, the dispensing unit operable for dispensing solution contained in the container; and a dental instrument, coupled to the dispensing unit, for receiving solution dispensed by the dispensing unit.

Abstract: A foot control mechanism for a dental apparatus has a tiltable actuation member mounted on a base part and an arrangement for holding the tiltable actuation member in a neutral position, which requires sufficient force to move the actuation member in either direction from the neutral position to a switch position. To accomplish this, the structure includes a mounting arrangement utilizing a pair of spaced-apart bearings extending parallel to each other which bearings receive projections on the other element and, preferably, a catch member is provided which provides a resistant force from movement from the neutral position.

Abstract: A foot-operated control system for use with a multi-function device includes a movable foot control device, one embodiment of the device comprising a pedal mounted on a base to pivot azimuthally with respect to the base and also downwardly in elevation with respect to the base. When the pedal is pivoted in azimuth, the foot control device provides selection signals to a selector including a function menu. The selector in turn, selects a menu segment from the function menu which corresponds to the desired function of the multi-function device. Pivoting the pedal to the left or to the right moves a menu indicator or icon through the various menu segments until the indicator indicates the segment corresponding to the desired function as indicated. The foot pedal is then returned to a central position and is moved in elevation to actuate the multi-function device to perform the selected function.

Abstract: Dental instrument for the treatment of caries and for oral surgery, of the type comprising a laser beam emission source, the said laser radiation being conveyed by optical fibre through the dental instrument (12) up to the zone to be treated, characterised in that it comprises control means enabling the user to vary at will during an operation at least one of the emission parameters of the laser beam chosen from the group comprising: the firing of the laser shot or shots, the energy of the laser beam, the frequency of the shots.

Abstract: The apparatus prevents atomized fluid from being drawn back into the spray circuits of dental surgery instruments with separate air and water lines by virtue of incorporating a reservoir, installed on the air line at a point downstream of the relative control valve, the capacity of which is such as to ensure that air will continue to emerge from the instrument for a short duration after the control valve has closed.

Abstract: A foot regulator which is especially suitable for use in connection with dental treatment equipment consists of a bottom, a control member which is cylindrical and which can be displaced in the horizontal plane and be turned, a housing with a printed circuit supporting a switch, and an upper part. The control member has a recess which in its center position is located immediately under a central hole in the housing, the control pin of the switch extending down into the hole. In the recess there is placed a ball which by the horizontal displacement of the control member will activate the switch, the ball being pressed up into the hole. Turning of the control member is detected by way of optical sensors. By the use of this foot regulator easy and simple operation is obtained in that it can be controlled in the same manner from all sides so that fatiguing working positions for the user can be avoided.

Abstract: A dental treatment apparatus includes a pressurized fluid source for pressurizing and supplying a fluid necessary for performing dental treatment operation and fluid conduits for conveying the pressurized fluid. The pressurized fluid source and a handpiece communicate with each other by the fluid conduits and a valving member is interposed in the liquid conduit for sucking the liquid during in a direction opposite to the liquid supply direction when the dental treatment operation is terminated. A check valve is interposed in the liquid conduit between the valving member and the dental treatment tool provided at the extreme end of the dental handpiece.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved delivery system for a dental treatment solution. More particularly, the apparatus disclosed includes a housing defining a well, a reservoir container for the dental treatment solution, and a pump for delivery of the solution to a hand piece. The pump includes an electrically energizable prime mover such as a motor or solenoid, a heater, and a control for the overall system. The control for the system provides a timing arrangement which is actuated upon placement of the reservoir container within the housing well, and which disables the system upon completion of the timing cycle. This feature, coupled with the employment of a visual signal, provides a dental professional with an indication of the strength or useful life of the dental treatment solution. Also disclosed are novel constructions for the pump and the heater, along with a novel design for the reservoir container.

Abstract: A control device for use in an air turbine dental handpiece comprising an air turbine which is integrated with a spindle supporting a cutting tool and is rotatably supported in a head housing by bearings, an air supply passage which supplies compressed air to the air turbine and an exhaust passage which discharges air spent to drive the air turbine, the control device being characterized in that the control device comprises a pressure or flowrate regulating device disposed in the exhaust passage to control the speed of the turbine in the range of stop to high-speed operation by changing the back pressure of the air turbine.

Abstract: A dental drill system including a multiple of drills operated through a modular control setup by a single foot control unit. The moduler control setup includes an individual module for each hand drill, a syringe block, and a manifold to which the foot control unit is connected. The foot control unit produces the controlling functions by pressurizing different ones of a plurality of air lines connected into the manifold. Multiple orifices extended through the modules and into the manifold provides common air pressure from the foot control lines to each of the modules, and is referred to as a primary orifice network. A secondary orifice network in each module taps into the primary orifice and converts the foot control line pressures into the various dental drill functions i.e. drilling with cooling air, drilling with mist air and chip air.

Abstract: A switching arrangement for the control of setting or control elements which are associated with the treatment instruments of a dental treatment location, including a control data memory in which there are stored predetermined control data constants for the treatment instruments. The data is retrievable through a control component for the adjustment of the presently considered control element, and includes a first signal or voltage output arrangement which, through its supplied signals or voltages, facilitates changes in the control data which are conveyed to the control component from the control data memory. A second voltage output arrangement is connected with the control component which supplies a voltage variable from an initial or zero value, and wherein in the active switching thereof, there is prevented the receipt or delivery of signals from the control data memory and of signals or voltages from the first signal or voltage output arrangement through the control component.

Abstract: A foot-actuated control arrangement, in particular for dental apparatuses, including an actuating element acting on a switch or control element, and which is equipped with a treadle. The actuating element is displaceable towards both sides from an initial position in one plane, is displaceable along a pivoted path about a stationary position, and can be restrained through at least one setting or control element in the mentioned initial position along the pivoted path and, subsequent to a displacement from this position, can be automatically returned thereto.

Abstract: A dental treatment apparatus comprising at least one dental treatment instrument, a control data store in which certain fixed control data values are stored and from which they can be called-up as and when necessary, and a display device. In order to permit modification of the control data emitted in each case from the control data store, without the need to refer to the display device, a control member is coupled with the control data store and converts the control data emitted in each case from the control data store into corresponding analog voltages, which can be modified by the emission of an analog voltage corresponding to a desired modification, and which act as operating signals for the instruments.

Abstract: Surgical drill apparatus includes a stand with a base and an upright column, a sterilizable water tank manually mountable on and demountable from the column, a gas flow control valve, equipped with a pedal, mounted on the base, oxygen lines connected to the valve, hence to the tank, thence to a surgical drill, and a water line connected to the water tank and the surgical drill. An oxygen line connected to one side of the valve at one end is connected to the hospital oxygen supply at its other end. The oxygen and water lines are plastic and equipped with quick-disconnect fittings complementary to fittings on the water tank. The water tank is of a size to hold sufficient water to permit the completion of any operation in which the drill is likely to be used. A simple, repeatedly sterilizable or disposable pinch valve is used to control the flow of water to the drill.

Abstract: A dental treatment apparatus having a plurality of dental instruments which are adapted to be deposited and releasably retained in an instrument holding device. The dentist is a position to store for the individual treatment instruments operating data of his own selection which will constitute fixed values. The treatment instrument will begin with these fixed values when taken into operation. However, the dentist can deviate from the fixed values and vary the operating data. The fixed values, as well as the varied operating data can be read off by the dentist on a display arrangement. After termination of the treatment, the treating instrument upon again being placed in operation commences at the stored fixed value. A data converter provides that the operating data are indicated on the display arrangement. It is possible to call up, by means of a single selecting sequence, the sets of data informations typical for treatments by all instruments which are to be employed.

Abstract: In a dental apparatus, in which each of a number of instruments is controlled by a control circuit common to the instruments, which are connected with a common operator unit having a control member which is movable in planar directions out of a home position, auxiliary functions not related to the instrument operation may be carried out by means of the common operator unit by switching the apparatus to a second mode of operation, when all the instruments assume respective resting positions in an instrument carrier. Moreover, also auxiliary functions directly related to the instrument operation may be carried out by the common operator unit in a first mode of operation by actuating the control member thereof with a movement different from the instrument energizing movement. The movement for energizing such an auxiliary function may have another direction and/or a shorter duration than the instrument energizing movement.

Abstract: A foot controller for controlling dental instruments of the type including pedals for controlling the rotational speed of a handpiece. The foot controller is designed such that the front part of the pedal is used for controlling high-speed rotation and requires a small tread pressure; while the rear portion of the pedal is to be used for controlling low-speed rotation and requires a large tread pressure.

Abstract: A foot controller for dental instruments having a pair of foot pedals which are depressed to initiate and control the rate of flow of a utility service, there being a single, variable output generator with the controller which can be operated by either the independent or simultaneous operation of the foot pedals.

Abstract: A dental treatment installation comprises a plurality of dental treatment instruments, a plurality of tools having different operating parameters and replaceably mountable in the instruments, and a main control device arranged to be supplied with the operating parameters of a selected instrument and optionally with further operating parameters, and to compute therefrom the operating point for the drive of the selected instrument and also the working data of the selected tool. The main control device includes stores which store the operating parameters of the tools under corresponding tool addresses or operating data addresses for the automatic control of the combined tool and instrument operation. A tool receiving station has receiving locations in which the tools are replaceably mounted and means is provided for transmitting automatically from said station to said main control device the tool address specific to a particular tool upon extraction of the latter from its receiving location.

Abstract: A compact portable and essentially unitized dental apparatus having a stable support base and a top carrying handle enables the visiting dentist to perform all necessary dental services at nursing homes, homes of invalids, hospital emergency rooms and in the field as with military or missionary personnel. A compressor-compressor motor unit forms the body on which other components of the apparatus are mounted. Electrical or gasoline engine compressor operation is feasible. The apparatus will operate high and low speed dental drills, a three-way syringe, and high volume suction device. Individual components are standard commerical items.

Abstract: A roller is installed in a case having an opening at its upper cover, in such a manner that the outer marginal portion of the roller projects partially through the opening of the case. No return force is applied to the roller at all and the same can be rotated by a foot of a dentist. A variable resistor adapted to transmit the turning movement of such roller is also installed in the case so that the change in resistance occurs in proportion to the turning movement of the roller. A cord of the variable resistor extends out of the case and the forward end of such cord is fitted with a plug.

Abstract: An electrical control arrangement which includes firstly an electronic transducer, which is adapted to receive a controlled stream of fluid, and secondly control means to be controlled by the electronic transducer to control the speed of a micro-motor in a linear manner.

Abstract: This invention pertains to a dental operatory console system including one or more fluid control valves for driving air and water to be delivered to dental handpieces supported for ready removal from a pivoted holder to provide adjustable angular positioning of the handpiece, one of such pivoted holders being adjacent each control valve and including a lockout for the valve plunger when the handpiece is removed from the holder, such as when changing burs, to prevent accidental operation of the air and water valve for delivery to the handpiece. The pivoted holder is readily removable for servicing the valve and the fluid circuit for water and air between a source of the same and a plurality of handpieces in the console includes shuttle valves to permit the use of a single air pressure gage for the system rather than a gage for each handpiece as in conventional multiple-handpiece consoles.

Abstract: Improved actuator for a control valve especially useful for a compressed air-operated dentist's drill comprises a foot actuated roller connected to provide axial movement through a screw threaded connection to a spring-biased valve control element.

Abstract: A system for selectively and controllably supplying pressurized fluids to dental or surgical tools requiring high pressure air at two levels of pressure and low pressure air and/or liquid.

Abstract: A pneumatically operated system for controlling the supply of water and/or water and air simultaneously to an air turbine-type dental handpiece, either to only drive the handpiece or drive it and simultaneously provide a spray. Two foot-actuated valves respectively controlling the supply of air to a handpiece are connected to a source of air under pressure and are respectively connected to a compound servo-control valve including a spool operable in a housing between various inlet and outlet ports for air which, when one foot-actuated valve is opened, will cause the spool to move from an initially inoperative position to afford delivery of drive air only to the handpiece and when the second foot-actuated valve is opened, additional air is by-passed at the same spool setting from one part of the housing to another part containing a normally closed water valve connected to water under pressure and opened by said additional air which actuates a small piston that engages said water valve to open it.

Abstract: A dental treatment apparatus having a plurality of dental instruments releasably retained in an instrument-holding device. A control and display arrangement controls the operation of an instrument upon extraction from the holding device, and displays the magnitude of an operating parameter of the instrument on a display device. A control data store is arranged to store pre-determined fixed control data values for the operating parameters of the instruments. To enable the user to alter the predetermined fixed values, a forward-backward counter is connected to the data store which can also store the altered values. A data converter is connected to the counter and to the display device for converting the instantaneous value stored in the data store to a corresponding service datum instantaneous value to be displayed by the display device.