Abstract:
An ultrasonic unit manufacturing system and process are based on a universal ultrasonic generator unit that operates interchangeably with either one of piezoelectric and magnetostrictive ultrasonic devices, and optionally as well as with either on-off or power level control footswitches. The ultrasonic units use a generator unit having a detector that determines whether the connected device is piezoelectric or magnetostrictive, and activates the generator for the appropriate piezoelectric or magnetostrictive operating mode. The ultrasonic units so made and methods of using them are also disclosed.
Abstract:
An apparatus and a handheld electrical tool system comprising an insert receivable in an ultrasonic handpiece comprising a primary coil disposed about a well and electrically connected to a primary current supply, the insert comprising a secondary coil disposed about at least a portion of the insert dimensioned and arranged to be disposable within the well such that the secondary coil is inductively coupled to the primary coil, the secondary coil in electrical communication with at least one electrical device powered by the secondary coil. A method of operating a handpiece and of retrofitting a handpiece is also disclosed.
Abstract:
A tip-based computer controlled system for a dental delivery device is disclosed. The system automatically controls an operating characteristic such as power control or fluid flow based on tip identification and history. The operating characteristic may also be controlled in response to particular conditions throughout the dental procedure, such as (but not limited to) temperature, dental hygiene material, fluid type, etc. The system may provide an alert or shut off if unsafe conditions occur and/or error circumstances are detected. An operator interface is provided to configure the system and augment/override an executing control algorithm during a procedure. A method and a computer-readable storage medium are also disclosed.
Abstract:
Efficiency-modulated ultrasonic dental inserts (12) are disclosed for preventing the overpowering of power-sensitive tips (18). The inserts (12) are useful in a handpiece (10) having an induction coil (20) disposed about a well and operable with an adjustable power supply having a maximum power output setting. An efficiency-modulated magnetostrictive element (14) is adapted to be received in the well. A velocity transducer (16) has proximal and distal ends. The proximal end is attached to a distal end of the magnetostrictive element (14). A power-sensitive tip (18) has a proximal end secured to the distal end of the velocity transducer (16). The efficiency of the magnetostrictive element (14) is matched with the power range of the tip (18) to prevent overpowering the tip (18) at the maximum power output setting.
Abstract:
An ultrasonic tool is disclosed with a handpiece (300, 500, 806) containing coils (304A-304D; 504A-504D; 804A-804B) that produce an electromagnetic field that vibrates a magnetic rod (102, 702A, 702B, 820) of a moveable pin transducer (MPT) 100 disposed within the handpiece. Ultrasonic vibrations are produced when the coils are selectively powered by an ultrasonic signal generator, which can include a stepper motor control apparatus (1300, 1400). A tip 106 can be removably attached to an MPT 100. A channel (708A, 708B) in the magnetic rod (700A, 700B) can allow fluidic communication with a handpiece fluid supply channel (310, 510). A method of vibrating a tool can include controllably energizing at least one electromagnetic coil contained within a handpiece to vibrate a magnetic rod and an attached tip. The method can include varying the energy to at least one of the electromagnetic coils with a stepper motor control apparatus.
Abstract:
A single use cartridge 10 is disclosed for dispensing a medicament or other substance for dental, medical, or veterinarian applications. A motive fluid can contact the medicament to mix and dispense from reservoir 12, or the motive fluid can act on a plunger 21 to dispense the medicament. A handpiece 15 can sealably connect the cartridge 10 to a source of the motive fluid. The cartridge 10 can be easily replaced to facilitate the use of multiple cartridges with a single handpiece 15. An ultrasonic cleaning element 30 with a channel for fluid flow can be used in a handpiece 25 with a single use medicament cartridge 28 to dispense medicament during ultrasonic dental procedures. A cartridge 72 can contain a mixing element 70 to mix the motive fluid and abrasive particles for tooth surface polishing.
Abstract:
A single use cartridge 10 is disclosed for dispensing a medicament or other substance for dental, medical, or veterinarian applications. A motive fluid can contact the medicament to mix and dispense from reservoir 12, or the motive fluid can act on a plunger 21 to dispense the medicament. A handpiece 15 can sealably connect the cartridge 10 to a source of the motive fluid. The cartridge 10 can be easily replaced to facilitate the use of multiple cartridges with a single handpiece 15. An ultrasonic cleaning element 30 with a channel for fluid flow can be used in a handpiece 25 with a single use medicament cartridge 28 to dispense medicament during ultrasonic dental procedures. A cartridge 72 can contain a mixing element 70 to mix the motive fluid and abrasive particles for tooth surface polishing.
Abstract:
An ultrasonic tool is disclosed with a handpiece (300, 500, 806) containing coils (304A-304D; 504A-504D; 804A-804B) that produce an electromagnetic field that vibrates a magnetic rod (102, 702A, 702B, 820) of a moveable pin transducer (MPT) 100 disposed within the handpiece. Ultrasonic vibrations are produced when the coils are selectively powered by an ultrasonic signal generator, which can include a stepper motor control apparatus (1300, 1400). A tip 106 can be removably attached to an MPT 100. A channel (708A, 708B) in the magnetic rod (700A, 700B) can allow fluidic communication with a handpiece fluid supply channel (310, 510). A method of vibrating a tool can include controllably energizing at least one electromagnetic coil contained within a handpiece to vibrate a magnetic rod and an attached tip. The method can include varying the energy to at least one of the electromagnetic coils with a stepper motor control apparatus.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to a dental scaling translucent insert which provides a coaxially aligned light adjacent the distal end of such insert for illuminating the tip of the dental scaler which light may be provided by light emitting from a fiber optic light guide from a light source located remotely from the tip. The light provided can also be used to view through a camera lens system located in translucent insert to provide a clear unobstructed view of the work at the tip of the scaler on a remote screen or for recording.
Abstract:
A pre-packaged, sterilized, single-use dental scaler tip, to be supplied to dental professionals, is used with an insert for an ultrasonic dental scaler. The single-use tip is employed for maintenance and preventive care for patients with titanium and other dental implants. The tip is packaged individually and sterilized by gas or irradiation, only to be removed after purchase, such as by the dental professional just before use on a patient. Upon completion of the patient care, the tips are preferably discarded and the dental insert is autoclaved or otherwise sterilized.