In Flexible Conduit Or Eduction Tube Patents (Class 433/96)
  • Patent number: 11925523
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to improved multi-suction dental devices, assemblies, systems and methods and of using the same. The multi-suction dental devices can be configured to suction both liquids and aerosols during dental procedures. Each multi-suction dental device can comprise at least one low-volume evacuation (LVE) suction pathway and at least one high-volume evacuation (HVE) suction pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Inventor: Frederick Stange
  • Patent number: 11744933
    Abstract: A saliva management system may be configured to manage fluid transfer with respect to first and second bodily regions. The system may include an anchoring member and a connector member. The anchoring member may be configured conformingly engage the first and second bodily regions. The connector member may include a capture portion and a fluid transfer portion. The capture portion may be configured to receive a central portion of the anchoring member. The fluid transfer portion may be being fluidically connected to a supply source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Saliva Management Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jennifer Rebecca Altounian, Cheryl Sawicki, Laura Foos
  • Patent number: 11576764
    Abstract: A dental mouthpiece is provided that may be attached to a high-suction dental adapter for the purpose of assisting the dental staff during dental procedures through chair-side, hands-free suction, and isolation. Such a mouthpiece may include a main body portion, a cheek retractor portion, and a suction connector portion. In some embodiments, the main body portion, cheek retractor portion, and suction connector portion (and sub-portions thereof) may be molded in one piece, preferably by injection molding. In an exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece may be made of a material that is flexible, translucent, conducive to injection molding, high heat-resistant, and autoclavable. Such a material may include silicone. Because the mouthpiece may be made of a high heat-resistant and autoclavable material, such a mouthpiece may be reusable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: SOLMETEX, LLC
    Inventors: Thien Nguyen, Tam Thanh Pham
  • Patent number: 11331176
    Abstract: An extraoral suction device for managing aerosol emissions during dental procedures includes: a conduit; an adapter in fluid communication with the conduit; and a mount for mounting the extraoral suction device to a dental chair. The adapter is configured to be placed in fluid communication with a vacuum source to provide suction to the extraoral suction device. The conduit can be selectively manipulated to assume and maintain a position without support from an individual or designated support structure. A dental professional can thus manipulate the conduit to maintain a position in front of the oral cavity of a patient seated in the dental chair to direct aerosols emitted from the oral cavity of the patient into the extraoral suction device instead of the surrounding environment. The extraoral suction device can thus be combined with a dental chair and vacuum source to provide an improved dental chair system for dental procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Inventor: Ronald Hoffman
  • Patent number: 11103663
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and apparatus for oral interfaces. According to particular embodiments, an oral interface comprises a body comprising a flow channel extending through the body from a first opening to a second opening. A lip commissure hook extends from a first end of the body in a curved configuration, and an intraoral portion extends from the lip commissure hook to form a gap between the intraoral portion and the body. An outer mandibular contact extends from the body. The flow channel extends through the lip commissure hook and the intraoral portion to the first opening and to a second opening located at a second end of the body. The intraoral portion and the outer mandibular contact are configured to apply frictional forces against the user's mandible and cheek to stabilize the oral interface upon the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: PTW DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT, INC.
    Inventors: Philip Weiss, Richard Weiss
  • Patent number: 10610664
    Abstract: Ureteral catheters are provided including a drainage lumen including a distal portion configured to be positioned in a patient's kidney, renal pelvis and/or in the ureter adjacent to the renal pelvis for receiving fluid from a patient's kidney and a proximal portion for draining the fluid from the distal portion, the distal portion including a coiled retention portion including: at least a first coil having a first diameter; at least a second coil having a second diameter, the first diameter being less than the second diameter, the second coil being closer to an end of the distal portion of the drainage lumen than the first coil; and one or more perforations on a sidewall of the coiled retention portion of the distal portion of the drainage lumen for permitting fluid flow into the drainage lumen, wherein the proximal portion of the drainage lumen is essentially free of or free of perforations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: Strataca Systems Limited
    Inventors: John R. Erbey, II, Jacob L. Upperco, Michael Alan Fisher, Patrick William Strane, Lance Michael Black
  • Patent number: 10413645
    Abstract: When sucking a fluid within a body cavity, foreign matter included in the fluid which exceeds the filtering diameter of a filtering apparatus may cause clogging of the filtering apparatus. Another concern is that a body cavity membrane getting stuck to a suction port of a suction tube may lead to the suction port being closed off. In response to such problems as these, provided is a suction apparatus, comprising a suction tube, and a filter member. The suction tube has side holes formed in a tube wall on a body cavity-side tail end part. The filter member has a tubular cap shape and covers a tail end aperture of the suction tube and the side holes, is formed from a foam body with an average aperture opening of 500-1000 ?m, and has a thickness of 7.5 mm or more.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: NIKKISO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshimichi Masuda, Tatsuo Igarashi, Takuro Ishii
  • Patent number: 9259294
    Abstract: A fluid evacuating dental dam is disclosed, the fluid evacuating dental dam including a manifold having at least one aperture formed therein, a dental dam selectively attached to the manifold, a suction device in fluid communication with the manifold, and selectively removable cover members disposed over the aperture of the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Heath Wallace, D.D.S.. LLC
    Inventor: Heath R. Wallace
  • Publication number: 20140349249
    Abstract: A disposable saliva ejector for connection with a slow-speed suction device has a suction end and a discharge end. The tapered ejector has an ovate shape. A retention orifice helps secure the ejector within the patient's mount, while a larger extraction orifice removes fluid and debris. Placement of the saliva ejector within the mouth lies along the interior of the patient's cheek, keeping the oral cavity clear of viewing obstructions. The discharge end connects to a discharge tube, wrapping around the oral commissure then hooking onto the patient's outer cheek. Once properly placed within the patient's mouth the dental assistant is relieved from providing suction during various procedures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventor: Hari Mark Reyes
  • Publication number: 20140322668
    Abstract: An intraoral biofilm control apparatus including a suction unit, a suction chamber positioned within and in communication with an inner space of the suction unit, a tubular connection member operably connected to and extending into the suction chamber, and an angular head member adjustably connected to an upper end of the tubular connection member is provided. The suction chamber, in communication with the suction unit, creates a negative air pressure in an inner space of the suction chamber. The angular head member in fluid communication with the suction chamber via the tubular connection member, contacts and suctions the intraoral biofilm from the intraoral areas into the inner space of the suction chamber when the negative air pressure is created. The angular head member having an angularly curved suction tip configurably accesses the intraoral areas. The angular head member having a suction plate suctions the intraoral biofilm from intraoral tongue areas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: Hankookin, Inc.
    Inventors: James Jiwen Chun, Andrew Youngho Chun, Angela Soyoung Chun, Jennifer Miseong Chun
  • Patent number: 8723668
    Abstract: A system and a method for remotely controlling at least one device based on operation of a foot pedal apparatus are provided. The system includes a device selection module (DSM) configured to transmit a first modulated RF signal at a first RF frequency having a communication linking command and a first RF frequency identifier. The first RF frequency identifier indicates a second RF frequency different than the first RF frequency. The system further includes a device control module (DCM) configured to receive the first modulated RF signal at the first RF frequency and to compare the communication linking command to a predetermined communication linking command. If the communication linking command corresponds to the predetermined communication linking command then the DCM selects the second RF frequency based on the first RF frequency identifier for subsequent RF signal reception.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventors: Gene Michael Strohallen, Thomas P. Warner
  • Patent number: 8585403
    Abstract: According to a present invention embodiment, a dental appliance maintains a patient mouth in an open state, retracts tissue, and evacuates bodily and/or other fluids from a dental site. The dental appliance includes an elongated tube configured with a looped section. The elongated tube is flexible, where the looped section is adjustable and manipulated to enable the dental appliance to accommodate mouths of various dental patients. Further, the looped section is resilient in order to maintain the patient mouth in an open state for dental procedures. In addition, the elongated tube includes perforations to remove bodily or other fluids from the patient mouth. A vacuum or suction device is coupled to an end of the elongated tube, where suction is applied to the tube to draw bodily or other fluids from the patient mouth through the perforations and remove these fluids from a dental site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Inger-Marie Ames
  • Patent number: 8512038
    Abstract: A high volume suction tube for use in dentistry to remove detritus during oral procedures, such as providing a tooth filling, including a cap that alleviates tissue obstruction without impeding efficient suction and removal of the detritus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Faheem Pasha
  • Publication number: 20130164706
    Abstract: An implement useful in dental and medical procedures, particularly aspiration, but that can also be readily adapted for irrigation or retraction, is described. In a preferred embodiment, the invention features a hollow handle portion 2 having a source end 2a for connecting to a vacuum line or pump, and a second end 2b; a hollow nozzle portion 1 having a contacting end 1a for engaging a patient surface to be suctioned and a second end 1b for functionally engaging, directly or indirectly, the second end of the handle 2b; and a hollow joint at least partially defined by the second end of the handle and the second end of the nozzle. In some embodiments, the joint may comprise an adaptor 3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: GSN PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Nishan ODABASHIAN, Saro KHOJASARIAN, Hovik KARAPETIAN
  • Publication number: 20130095450
    Abstract: According to a present invention embodiment, a dental appliance maintains a patient mouth in an open state, retracts tissue, and evacuates bodily and/or other fluids from a dental site. The dental appliance includes an elongated tube configured with a looped section. The elongated tube is flexible, where the looped section is adjustable and manipulated to enable the dental appliance to accommodate mouths of various dental patients. Further, the looped section is resilient in order to maintain the patient mouth in an open state for dental procedures. In addition, the elongated tube includes perforations to remove bodily or other fluids from the patient mouth. A vacuum or suction device is coupled to an end of the elongated tube, where suction is applied to the tube to draw bodily or other fluids from the patient mouth through the perforations and remove these fluids from a dental site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventor: Inger-Marie Ames
  • Publication number: 20130059265
    Abstract: A high volume suction tube for use in dentistry to remove detritus during oral procedures, such as providing a tooth filling, including a cap that alleviates tissue obstruction without impeding efficient suction and removal of the detritus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventor: Faheem Pasha
  • Publication number: 20130052610
    Abstract: A suction handle, a suction handle assembly, and an oral care system. The suction handle can include a first axis oriented along a longitudinal direction, a first conduit having a first bore oriented along the first axis, and a second conduit adapted to be coupled to the first conduit, which can have a second bore oriented along the first axis. The first conduit and the second conduit can be movable with respect to one another in the longitudinal direction between a first position in which there is no fluid communication between the first and second bores, and a second position in which there is fluid communication. An actuator can be coupled to at least one of the first conduit and the second conduit that which can pivot about a second axis oriented substantially perpendicularly with respect to the first axis between a first and second actuator position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
    Inventors: Alan R. Dombrowski, Clark F. Bow
  • Patent number: 8360773
    Abstract: This invention is a hollow, crown shaped cap along with the dental High Volume Evacuation (HVE) tube into which the cap is specially designed to fit. The crown shaped cap is detachable and attachable. The invention may also be produced as one piece, with the cap permanently attached. The crown shaped cap extends outward from the suction end, and is larger in diameter than the HVE tube. This crown shaped cap for the HVE dental suction tube consists of four tubular, question mark-shaped parts which intersect to form four openings for suction. The cap is hollow and has a short tubular end. The cap is attached to the suction end of the HVE tube by snapping the tubular end of the cap into the suction end of the HVE tube. The crown shaped cap facilitates retraction of the tongue, cheeks or lips within, and about, the oral cavity. It also enables a dentist to work on teeth without the danger of causing tissue plug injury to the retracted tongue, cheek or lips, while still allowing suction of larger particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventor: Faheem Pasha
  • Patent number: 8241242
    Abstract: A device for achieving high vacuum stability during phacoemulsification surgery includes a main aspiration line connected to a vacuum source which enables a fluid flow from a phacoemulsification handpiece tip to a drainage reservoir. A first tubing segment is provided in the main aspiration line along with a second tubing segment generally parallel to the first tubing section and a valve disposed in the second tubing segment regulates fluid flow through the second tubing segment in order to limit vacuum surge in the main aspiration line upon clearing of an occlusion in the phacoemulsification handpiece tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Abbott Medical Optics Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas B. Sutton
  • Publication number: 20110207076
    Abstract: An adapter for connecting a vacuum source to an intraoral device has a plug portion and a connection portion extending proximally from the plug portion. The plug portion is configured for releasable mating engagement with a connection section of an intraoral device which communicates with one or more evacuation channels of the intraoral device. The connection portion has a proximal end configured for connection to one or more vacuum lines of a vacuum source. One or more vacuum lumens extend through the plug and connector portions to communicate with the one or more vacuum lines to remove fluid from a patient's mouth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventors: James A. Hirsch, Thomas R. Hirsch
  • Publication number: 20110151404
    Abstract: A suction oral brush. The oral brush can include a handle having a longitudinal direction and a lumen, and can be adapted to be coupled to a suction source. Bristles can extend outwardly of a first side of a distal end of the handle. A proximal aperture can be formed in the first side of the distal end of the handle that is in fluid communication with the lumen of the handle. The proximal aperture can include a distal end and a proximal end positioned no further distally than a proximal end of the bristles. A distal aperture in fluid communication with the lumen can be formed in a sidewall of the distal end of the handle, and can have a width greater than its height. The bristles can be arranged such that none of the bristles lie on the centerline of the distal end of the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Alan R. Dombrowski
  • Publication number: 20110151405
    Abstract: A suction swab and a method of making a suction swab. The suction swab can include a shaft, a pad coupled to the shaft, and an aperture formed through the pad and the shaft. The shaft can be elongated and can have a lumen, a longitudinal direction and an outer transverse dimension oriented substantially perpendicularly with respect to the longitudinal direction. The shaft can include a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end can be coupled to a suction source. The aperture can be in fluid communication with the lumen of the shaft, can be elongated, and can have a width and a length greater than the width. The length of the aperture can be greater than the outer transverse dimension of the shaft. The method can include coupling the pad to the distal end of the shaft, and forming an aperture through the pad and the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Alan R. Dombrowski
  • Publication number: 20110065062
    Abstract: Disclosed is a lightweight, autoclavable, dental suction apparatus used to evacuate fluid from a patient's mouth during dental procedures. In particular, the apparatus is useful for hands-free operation in combination with high volume suction and slow speed suction and in combination with popular disposable suction devices. Further, the apparatus is comfortable for patients and provides greater patient access and comfort to clinicians.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Applicant: BLUE BOA LLC
    Inventor: Ann Arrington
  • Publication number: 20110020763
    Abstract: During root canal procedures, pulp may be removed from a tooth without disturbing the dentin by directing pulses of a heated liquid onto the pulp at particular temperatures and pressures to liquefy or gellify the pulp. The liquefied or gellified material is then aspirated away using the methods and apparatuses described herein. In some embodiments the heated liquid also functions to kill bacteria that may be present within the tooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventors: Mark S. ANDREW, Luis A. Davila
  • Publication number: 20100190133
    Abstract: An irrigation and aspiration device comprises a probe and an aspiration sleeve that ensheathes the probe. The aspiration sleeve prevents the insertion of the probe beyond a desired distance, thereby preventing perforation of the apex of a root canal or wound, and also aspirates any excess irrigation solution and free debris. The device can be used for endodontic and periodontal procedures, penetrating or tract wound irrigation, open or superficial non-penetrating wound irrigation, and irrigation during specialty surgeries in endoscopic, ophthalmology, gynecology, orthopedic surgery, and other specialty surgeries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventor: Daniel L. Martinez
  • Publication number: 20100129770
    Abstract: An instrumentation delivery unit which supports hand-held dental instruments. In one example first and second housing members form a sealed chamber. When the members are separated, access is permitted to the interior of the chamber, e.g., for maintenance purposes. A first portal suitable for connection to a vacuum line provides a partial vacuum in the chamber, and second portals provide connection via second vacuum lines between the chamber and dental devices to operate the devices. The housing includes hand piece holders each of an initial diametric size for receiving hand pieces up to a maximum diametric dimension, with one of the hand piece holders formed along two adjoining ones of the housing members. The adjoining housing members secure inserts between one another to provide a second diametric size smaller than the initial diametric size to thereby selectably accommodate hand pieces having a smaller diametric dimensions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventors: Tom Benfield, Joe Bria, John Helgesen, Austin Unsworth
  • Publication number: 20100021860
    Abstract: An ergonomic high volume evacuator system provides a tapered tubular evacuator tool having a body defining a medial channel with an angulated mirrored guard having an optically reflective insert adjacent a beveled input orifice. A flexible evacuation hose having an integral coil spring and a vacuum connector pneumatically releasably interconnect the evacuator tool with a vacuum source. An axially rotatable evacuator tool connector provides a releasable pneumatic and fluidic sealed interconnection between the evacuator tool and the evacuation hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventors: Stephanie Christman, Terry L. Fitzthum
  • Publication number: 20090311648
    Abstract: The invention relates to a medical suction device (10) for sucking up liquids and particles, said device comprising a hollow base body (12) having a longitudinal axis X-X, an outer surface (16), an inner surface (14), and a suction opening (20). Part of said base body has a reflecting surface (24).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventors: Stephan Clasen, Martin Kayser
  • Patent number: 7335023
    Abstract: A disposable cushioned aspirator which forms part of a dental or medical aspirating system. The disposable cushioned aspirator appliance described herein is intended principally to be used in dental and medical procedures where body fluids and rinse water is evacuated from the site of a procedure. An elongate tubular element has a connection end and a patient end. The patient end is exteriorly lined with a layer of soft cushioning material such as a soft thermoplastic elastomers, styrene based polymers, rubber or a porous polymer foam material to define an aspirator tip that protects the soft tissues in and around the mouth of a patient. The soft aspirator tip has external longitudinal pressure relief channels and recessed aspiration openings within the channels for control of aspiration characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Lee A. Mahlmann
  • Patent number: 7261560
    Abstract: A dental suction device includes a hollow tube having both flexibility and shape retainability. The tube has its both ends connected to a connector and is formed with suction holes. The connector can be connected to a vacuum source. A suction force produced by the vacuum source can thus be applied to the suction holes of the tube through a passage formed in the connector. The connector includes a valve for adjusting the degree of opening of the passage formed in the connector and thus the suction force applied to the suction holes. The valve includes a valve body mounted in the connector and a manual lever for controlling the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignees: Shinya ABO, Hirokazu ABO
    Inventor: Takeshi Abo
  • Patent number: 7238023
    Abstract: A saliva ejector or eductor including an ejector tube having a suction end and a discharge end. The ejector tube has a wire embedded in the wall thereof adapted to allow the tube to be easily bent into a selected configuration and to retain that configuration. A hollow tip is secured to the suction end of the ejector tube. The tip has an upper face and a lower face. A plurality of tear-shaped openings extend solely through the upper face and communicate the interior of the tip with the exterior thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Denise A. Enos
  • Patent number: 7140879
    Abstract: A soft disposable ejector tip 2 that can match the various contour of the mouth cavity is attached to a chamfer shape copper wire reinforced tube end 3. This tube is attached to a metal holder with finger control level to regulate the negative vacuum pressure needed to extract saliva or spray water inside the mouth during dental works.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Inventor: William Hui-Kang Chu
  • Patent number: 6821118
    Abstract: A saliva ejector construction prevents tissue at the bottom inside of the patient's mouth from being aspirated by the vacuum action of the saliva ejector, thereby preventing discomfort for the patient; and the structure of the saliva ejector provides a tissue contacting contour, so that it not only rests and acts comfortably at the bottom of the mouth but enables complete suctioning of the saliva. A saliva ejector tip provides the accomplishment of comfort and complete suctioning of the saliva by defining elongated, vertical openings, and a spherical surface to contact the patient's tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventor: Herbert Schlussel
  • Publication number: 20030203336
    Abstract: The invention is a self supporting oral evacuation hose consisting of a post, a base for supporting the post in a substantially vertical orientation, a flexible evacuation hose, an evacuation tip operatively coupled to one end of the hose, a hose coupling connector located on the other end of the hose, and an arm having a distal end. The arm is secured to the post and the evacuation tip is positioned on the distal end of the arm. The arm is adapted to selectively position the evacuation tip relative to the post. The arm may be hollow to permit a portion of the hose to be contained in the hollow of the arm. The arm is preferably articulated in the manner of a goose neck and bendable such that the distal end can be positioned as desired. A valve may be positioned at the distal end to control the evacuation tip. A platform may also be mounted to the post to act as a stand for x-ray print outs or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Elizabeth Somodi
  • Patent number: 6602072
    Abstract: A deformable disposable high volume aspirator comprising a flexible conduit for the transmission of aspirated fluids, a means for selectively deforming said flexible conduit, a means for diffusing suction during high volume aspiration, and a means for connecting said flexible conduit to a vacuum valve. The present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art by providing an aspirator that is disposable having a flexible deformable conduit member with a malleable metal wire that may be selectively shaped to fit into a patient's mouth whereupon a source of vacuum having been connected to a distal end by means of a connection member and a suction tip on the other distal end can remove a large volume of matter from a patient mouth without lodging onto a patient's cheek or gums that may cause discomfort. The suction tip has a plurality of furcations and a central structure member forming apertures within the suction tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Debra Burney
  • Publication number: 20030134254
    Abstract: Improvements related to hose and tip of suction apparatuses of densitry, particularly related to a suction pump having flexible hose having a plastic tube (1) and a tip (2) coupled at the free extrety, the tube (1) is a cylindrical body made of plastic and flexible material, the cylindrical body also comprises annular and self engageable corrugations (1b), an annular enlarged portion (1c) is provided at the extremity of the tube (1) for connecting to the extremity (2b) of the tip (2); said tip has a cylindrical shape, having an extremity (2a) with concentric and annular corrugations (3); the internal base (4) of the portion (3) has a central hole (5); the cylindrical wall (2c) of the tip (2) has longitudinal and equidistant slots (6) positioned at the middle of the said wall (2c); the above improvements permit an industrial cost reduction in the obtention process of the tube (1) and enhance the operational performance of the tip (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Gianmaria Cominato Filho
  • Publication number: 20030054317
    Abstract: A deformable disposable high volume aspirator comprising a flexible conduit for the transmission of aspirated fluids, a means for selectively deforming said flexible conduit, a means for diffusing suction during high volume aspiration, and a means for connecting said flexible conduit to a vacuum valve. The present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art by providing an aspirator that is disposable having a flexible deformable conduit member with a malleable metal wire that may be selectively shaped to fit into a patient's mouth whereupon a source of vacuum having been connected to a distal end by means of a connection member and a suction tip on the other distal end can remove a large volume of matter from a patient mouth without lodging onto a patient's cheek or gums that may cause discomfort. The suction tip has a plurality of furcations and a central structure member forming apertures within the suction tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Debra Burney
  • Patent number: 6186783
    Abstract: An evacuation hand piece for collecting debris during dental procedures. The hand piece is adapted for attachment to evacuation apparatus and provides both intra- and extra-oral suction. A body member of the hand piece has a contoured outer gripping surface which makes the hand piece easier to grasp. A mask is disposed at one end of the hand piece to create a suction area which is larger than the cross sectional area of the body member. The mask is attached to a spherical tip of the body member to form a ball and socket-type connection which permits directional adjustment of the mask, thereby maximizing the effective extra-oral suction of the hand piece. The mask is formed from transparent material to allow viewing through the mask during dental procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Dentsply Research & Development Corp.
    Inventors: John Michael Brassil, Shu Kun Chang, Reynaldo Jose Quintana, Dickon Isaacs
  • Patent number: 6068476
    Abstract: A disposable saliva ejector assembly for use in connection with a vacuum source for withdrawing saliva and bioburden from the oral cavity of a dental patient. The saliva-ejector assembly includes a flexible hollow tube having a first end provided with a suctioning tip and a second end adapted for connecting to a vacuum source. The assembly further includes a flexible plastic cover-slip having a first end fixedly attached to the tube at a distance inwardly of the tube second end sufficient to permit a friction fit connection between the tube second end and a tube receiving fixture of the vacuum source, and a second free end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Inventor: Catherine L. Point
  • Patent number: 6068477
    Abstract: A disposable cushioned aspirator which forms part of a dental or medical aspirating system. The disposable cushioned aspirator appliance described herein is intended principally to be used in dental procedures where bodily fluids and rinse water is evacuated from a patient's mouth, but the invention has application in medical procedures and various other applications as well. An elongate tubular element having a patient end and a connection end is exteriorly lined with a layer of soft cushioning material such as a porous foam material to protect the soft tissues in and around the mouth of a patient. The elongate tubular aspirator is capable of being manually bent from an initially straight configuration to a curved or other desired configuration and is provided with a structural member extending along its length and being pliable to permit bending and yet of sufficient structural integrity to maintain the aspirator in the desired configuration during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Inventor: Lee A. Mahlmann
  • Patent number: 6022326
    Abstract: A method and device for automatic or semi-automatic collection of saliva has a mouthpiece on a wand. The wand is connected to an interface section via a flexible conduit. Saliva is transported by aspiration into the device. Bulk air is removed and saliva is collected in a collection chamber. For collection of volatile components, air flow, vacuum, conduit diameter and length, and collection times are controlled and limited, to reduce loss of volatile components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Lifepoint, Inc.
    Inventors: G. Roger Tatum, David J. Smith, Charles Woodruff, Jr., Connie Chang
  • Patent number: 5876384
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a micro aspirator for use in performing microsurgery for the removal of blood, debris and fluids from around the micro surgical site. The micro aspirator includes an elongated flexible tube which is preferably transparent, which is adapted to be connected to a negative pressure source and an aspirating tip formed as a plastic hub having a connected needle or cannula with a gauge ranging between 10 to 30 connected to the end of the flexible tube. The plastic hub may be either detachably or fixedly secured to the end of the flexible tube, with the needle or cannula being formed of a readily bendable material that can be easily bent by the operator or surgeon to any desired angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Inventors: William B. Dragan, John J. Discko, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5803731
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the production or manufacture of a suction hose (3) as well as a suction hose (3) for saliva ejection, which suction hose (3) is preformed to an arcuate hose member (14) with two shanks (15, 16) and built-in elastic properties for generating return or resetting forces (K).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: Kanor Plast AB
    Inventor: Kaj Arne Lennart Nordstrom
  • Patent number: 5743736
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a disposable saliva ejector (1) for suction of different fluids being present in a dental treatment. The saliva ejector (1) includes a number of stiff section members (10), a connection tube (12) and a suction screen (14). Using a ball-shaped portion in a first end and a corresponding cup-shaped cavity in a second end for connection of the different elements (10, 12 and 14), it is additionally possible by application of a certain minimum force to form the saliva ejector (1) into some desired bent shape before it is inserted into the mouth of a patient to be treated. A saliva ejector is effected which does not contain any further stiffening by metal and therefore a disposable saliva ejector is provided fabricated from only one material for simple destruction and possible recycling of the material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Zirc Company
    Inventors: Matts Folko, Christer Albertsson
  • Patent number: 5697786
    Abstract: A flexible paper tube, in particular a throw-away saliva suction unit for dentistry, comprises two tubular sections integrally connected to each other via a bellows and is characterized in that the paper tube (2, 6) is constructed from multi-layer paper, in particular having 3 through 15 layers and preferentially 4 to 10 layers of thickness 0.07 to 0.35 mm, in particular 0.1 to 0.2 mm and with a wall thickness between 0.2 to 2.5 mm, preferentially 0.5 to 1 mm. The fluting and folding of the bellows is preferentially done before hardening of the glued paper layers. The paper tube (2, 6) in accordance with the invention guarantees that the tube passage is not reduced in size when flexing of the tube through bending of the bellows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: Albert Eger GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Gertrud Lange-Mickel, Paul Morsch, Gebhard Wahl
  • Patent number: 5690487
    Abstract: A disposable oral suction tip includes a tubular body having a suction line attachment end, a mouthpiece end, an exterior surface and at least one central passage that extends between the suction line attachment end and the mouthpiece end. A mouthpiece is secured to the mouthpiece end of the tubular body. At least one vacuum release channel is provided having a first end and a second end. The at least one vacuum release channel extends along the exterior surface of the tubular body. The first end of the at least one vacuum release channel is positioned to be placed into a patient's mouth along with the mouthpiece. The second end is spaced from the mouthpiece such that the at least one vacuum release channel provides direct venting of the oral cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: White Shield Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald L. S. Whitehouse, Connie Watson
  • Patent number: 5688121
    Abstract: A saliva ejector having a hollow tube including a cylindrical wall, a first end for placement within an oral cavity, and a second end for attachment to a suction hose. A flowpath is defined within the tube. The ejector includes a first corrugated portion defined in the cylindrical wall, a second corrugated portion defined in the cylindrical wall, and a filter element secured across the flowpath. The bending qualities of the first corrugated portion differ from the bending qualities of the second corrugated portion, thus allowing for a wide variety of bendable configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Filtertek Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph L. Davis
  • Patent number: 5547375
    Abstract: A suction device with a suction hose and suction cannula for dental treatment units for the sucking off of the spray mist during dental treatment processes in which the suction hose is placed on or in a flexible tube, which is movable in three-dimensional manner, so that the suction hose can be brought into the treatment position and can be positioned there without any need for a dental nurse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventor: Hans-Georg Schneider
  • Patent number: 5509802
    Abstract: An oral suction tip is described which includes a tubular body. The tubular body has a peripheral sidewall, a first end, a second end, and a single passage for transmitting fluids extending between the first end and the second end. A mouthpiece is provided at the second end of the tubular body. At least one vacuum release aperture extends through the sidewall of the tubular body in direct communication with the fluid passage. The at least one vacuum release aperture is spaced from the mouthpiece, such that when the mouthpiece is inserted into a patient's mouth the at least one vacuum release aperture is not confined within the patient's mouth. A porous guard overlies in spaced relation the at least one vacuum release aperture. This prevents accidental blockage of the at least one vacuum release aperture and also prevents regulation of the suction by means of the at least one vacuum release aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: White Shield Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald L. S. Whitehouse, Connie Watson
  • Patent number: 5476630
    Abstract: Method of manufacturing a dental aspirator by extruding a continuous tube with a bellows portion. The tube is angled to form a number of folds, each of which consists of two cup-shaped portions having concave surfaces facing each other. One cup-shaped portion is made smaller than the other, allowing them to be snapped together. The bellows are formed from the tube wall by chilled mold chains. At the same time, the tube is profiled to form an end portion at the suction end of the finished aspirator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventor: Ernst Orsing