Lighted Ultrasonic Handpiece and Color Code Grip System

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.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 10 / 249,165 filed Mar. 19, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,150,629.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to a medical or dental handpiece; specifically to an ultrasonic handpiece providing a independently controlled light source connected through an interchangeable and easily identifiable grip on an ultrasonic insert adjacent the end of the handpiece for illuminating the surface to be engaged by the tip of the handpiece and which may additionally provide a camera lens for viewing the work area without interference with the work performed. [0004] 2. Description of the Related Art [0005] The present invention relates to an ultrasonic tool, which can be a dental scaler, or—alternatively—a scalpel, additionally providing a light directed from the handpiece of the tool toward the work surface on which the tip or blade is engaged. For ease...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010] The improved lighted ultrasonic dental scaling insert features a scaling tip, a velocity transducer connected to said scaling tip, an ultrasonic stack connected to said velocity transducer inserted through a grip adapted for connection with a dental scaling handpiece of the present invention. An interchangeable grip sheath can be ergonomically form fitted to more easily allow the operator to grip the ultrasonic device for long periods of time without muscle fatigue or cramping. Additionally, the interchangeable grip sheath may be color coded to permit the operator to readily identify a preferred handpiece from amongst a number of similar designed handpieces. This ability to visually determine the instrument being accessed by virtue of the color coding and the ability to use an ergonimically designed sheath adaptable to the hand of the operator fosters a less stressful clinical setting for both the dental technician and the patient.

[0011] The light source terminus in the handpiece abutts the translucent grip body and is connected to a light transmission cable permitting the transmission through the terminus into the interior of the grip covered by the sheath. A light source, which may be switched on or off and regulated to increase or decrease light intensity through the light transmission cable provides illumination through cable to the light source terminus. As previously noted, an ergonomic resilient and opaque sheath is retained over the translucent grip body to permit comfortable use of the ultrasonic device and also blocks ambient light from escaping from the translucent grip at any point except the distal end of the grip adjacent the tip.

[0012] Alternatively, the lighted ultrasonic handpiece can provide a partially translucent grip body providing a longitudinal passage through which an ultrasonic velocity transducer is connected to a tip and energized by an ultrasonic generator driving a in said handpiece having a light source terminus abutting said translucent grip body providing illumination through the grip body to a distal end of the grip body adjacent a tip and a light cable connected to said light source terminus providing illumination from a remote source to the light source terminus; and, a resilient ergonomic opaque sheath covering said grip thereby preventing the light from leaving the translucent grip body at any position except its distal tip. Since the sheath may be readily and easily slip on and off the grip, it can be colored to provide visual identification to the operator of the type and configuration of the tip and light system being utilized. This facilitates easy and quick use of a number of tips for busy dental hygienists who may prefer one tip over an alternative design for a given problem.

[0013] The ultrasonic handpiece grip system of the present invention can also be fashioned with a molded body having a longitudinal passage therethrough; and, a translucent insert, such as a fiber optic channel, to transmit light from the handpiece light terminus to the grip insert, which provides an exterior surface for engaging an elastomeric opaque sheath and further providing a passage for the insertion of a velocity transducer and water path to the distal tip of the grip system and permitting the passage of light through the interior of the molded body to the distal end of the grip body to illuminate the adjacent distal tip.

Problems solved by technology

Although various prior art devices disclosed mounting a light or light source in the handpiece, so far as known to applicant, no prior art provides a light path through the insert grip to guide remotely generated light to the tip of the scaler.

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