Timothy George Beck

US Patent:

20130052606, Feb 28, 2013

Filed:

Oct 29, 2012

Appl. No.:

13/662593

Inventors:

DENTSPLY INTERNATIONAL, INC. - York PA, US
Timothy M. BECK - York Haven PA, US
Eugene J. NOVAK - Deerfield IL, US
Thomas E. BARKER - Cherry Valley IL, US
William RAYMOND - Palatine IL, US
Karl H. BETHKE - Palatine IL, US

Assignee:

DENTSPLY INTERNATIONAL, INC. - York PA

International Classification:

A61C 1/05
A61C 3/02

US Classification:

433 27, 433132

Abstract:

A detection system for remotely determining the speed of a rotating tool tip in a pneumatic dental handpiece. A means for detecting the speed of the rotating tool tip monitors a periodic mechanical function at the pneumatic hose connected to the handpiece. The monitored periodic mechanical function serves to provide feedback that is used to control the speed of the rotating tool tip. The means for detecting the speed of the rotating tool detects a mechanical function of the rotating tool tip, which in transmitted to a controller. The controller in turn regulates the operation of an air supply valve in response to the detected mechanical function. The valve regulates the flow of air to the handpiece. By continuously adjusting the flow of air through the valve into the pneumatic hose, the speed of the rotating tool is maintained at the desired cutting speed.