Cordless Battery Powered Handheld Ultrasonic Dental Scaling System

Abstract

The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system includes an enclosure configured to be handheld, an ultrasonic acoustic assembly disposed at least partially within the enclosure, a rotatable grip coupled to an acoustic transformer at a nodal region of the acoustic transformer of the ultrasonic acoustic assembly, an electronic control system disposed within the enclosure and configured to energize the ultrasonic acoustic assembly, a battery disposed within the enclosure and configured to power the electronic control system, and a fluid source disposed within the enclosure and containing a fluid, wherein a flow rate of the fluid from the fluid source is regulated, and the regulated flow rate is controlled by the electronic control system.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] [CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 307,418, filed February 7, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to dental scalers, and more particularly to a cordless, battery-powered, handheld ultrasonic dental scaling system that includes on-board fluid delivery. [Background technology]

[0003] Current ultrasonic dental scalers are limited because they must be tethered to a control module that provides power to the transducer in the handpiece to enable the generation of ultrasonic vibrational energy. Furthermore, while improvements in the electronic control systems of ultrasonic dental scalers have increased efficiency, such improvements typically increase the power required and / or complexity, thereby increasing manufacturing costs.

[0004] Current ultrasonic dental scalers are also limited by the need to be tethered to a control module to deliver coolant to the tooth-working tool interface and sometimes to the transducer in the handpiece. Additionally, such ultrasonic dental scalers are limited by the large volumes of coolant required for dental procedures. For example, current ultrasonic dental scalers require a coolant flow rate of approximately 10 milliliters per minute to the tooth-working tool interface when utilizing ultrasonic energy at a low power setting. Thus, for a 20 minute procedure with an average ultrasonic on-time of 10 minutes, a minimum volume of 100 milliliters of coolant is required. Procedures requiring higher power levels may require at least 200 milliliters of coolant. This 200 milliliters of coolant (e.g., water) weighs 200 grams (g), or approximately 7 ounces.

[0005] Current ultrasonic dental scalers still require a tethered control module because, at a minimum, the size and weight of the electronics, controls, power supply, and coolant (e.g., water) make it weight prohibitive to incorporate all of these components into the handpiece. For example, current ultrasonic dental scaler handpieces range from about 2 ounces for piezoelectric scalers to about 2.5 ounces for magneto scalers. Adding the weight of the coolant alone (not considering the coolant container, electronics, and power supply) more than triples the weight of the handpiece. Including a power supply, such as a battery, for example, adds another 135 g, and adding the electronics adds another 300 g. This results in a handpiece weighing about 1.8 pounds.

[0006] Additionally, regulating the coolant flow rate is a challenge with current ultrasonic scaling systems. There is no standardization for coolant flow regulation, which leads to confusion in the field. Many current designs do not allow for precise flow control. Additionally, systems without a coolant regulator are also subject to flow rate fluctuations due to changes in introduced coolant pressure.

[0007] For example, U.S. Patent Nos. 7,255,290, 8,113,179, 8,418,676, 8,683,982, and 9,385,300 disclose alloys that provide durable electromechanical / mechatronic actuators with high mechanical power density. Terbium (element number 65 in the periodic table) inseparably combines magnetic and mechanical effects. This unusual phenomenon, called magnetostriction, is indestructible and will not permanently degrade because it originates from the quantum mechanics of the terbium atom itself. Terbium exhibits this effect in combination with dysprosium (element number 66) and iron in a useful alloy named Terfenol-D. Terfenol-D is one of the best known binders for converting magnetic input to mechanical output.

[0008] In general, magnetostrictive materials convert magnetic inputs into mechanical outputs and vice versa. For actuators that convert magnetic inputs into mechanical outputs, a solenoid coil surrounds a magnetostrictive Terfenol-D element. An electrical input energizes the solenoid coil, generating a magnetic field. The magnetostrictive Terfenol-D element converts its magnetic input into a mechanical output. Terfenol-D mechanically expands approximately linearly with the strength of the applied magnetic field. A decrease in the strength of the electric field reduces the expansion. Furthermore, the rate at which Terfenol-D expands or contracts over time is approximately proportional to the rate of change of the applied magnetic field over time. In this way, Terfenol-D can continuously control the mechanical output. Within the operating range of a single actuator, continuous control of the electrical input allows for both fast and small mechanical outputs, slow and large mechanical outputs, and any desired output in between.

[0009] In addition to continuous control, the quantum mechanical origin of the magnetostrictive effect gives Terfenol-D its inherent durability in harsh environments. Magnetostriction has not been observed to wear out Terfenol-D, nor do high temperatures irreparably degrade Terfenol-D. An energized solenoid coil surrounds but does not touch the magnetostrictive Terfenol-D element of the actuator, so the magnetic field is applied without direct contact, avoiding wear of any components.

[0010] It is known in the art that piezo ceramics have replaced nickel alloys in many electromechanical transducers. Furthermore, the energy density of piezo is known to exceed that of nickel alloys, and piezo transducers offer a greater power-to-weight ratio than nickel alloys, such as Permannickel. In contrast, Terfenol-D offers the highest energy density of any electromechanical transducer, allowing a smaller device to produce the same mechanical power.

[0011] US Patent No. 7,255,290 highlights Navy test data comparing the piezoelectric to GMM (a giant magnetostrictive material known as Terfenol-D). The data shows that the energy coupling is comparable to the piezoelectric, but the stress limit energy density is nearly three times different. This is the result of the nearly three times difference in Young's modulus. In addition to this, Terfenol-D can be safely operated at much higher preload biases than the relatively low -41 MPa shown in the table without experiencing life-reducing issues such as wear, and can even achieve higher energy density. Furthermore, excessive magnetic fields simply saturate the expansion of Terfenol-D, whereas the piezoelectric can experience dielectric breakdown when subjected to excessive electric fields.

[0012] US Patent No. 6,619,957 describes a handheld ultrasonic scaler using Terfenol-D, but all versions of this device have a tethered handpiece, limiting portability. Summary of the Invention

[0013] As used herein, terms such as "about," "substantially," and the like, are meant to account for manufacturing, material, environmental, usage, measurement, and / or other tolerances and variations of up to plus or minus 10%. Furthermore, to the extent not inconsistent, any of the embodiments described herein may be used in combination with any or all of the other embodiments described herein. Additionally, the terms "amplitude" and "stroke" are used interchangeably with respect to the output level of the device. The terms "angular" and "rotational" are also used interchangeably herein with respect to the compression of the transducer during assembly.

[0014] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a fully portable ultrasonic scaling device that overcomes the limitations of prior art devices.

[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an ultrasonic scaling device that provides a removably removable (and in some embodiments, renewable) power source, an integrated (and in some embodiments, self-regulating) fluid delivery system, and a removably removable electronic control system (e.g., electronic drive circuitry).

[0016] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an anti-rotation member in an acoustic assembly (e.g., in an ultrasonic scaling device) to enhance the mechanical integrity, particularly during compression of the transducer of the acoustic assembly.

[0017] Other objects, aspects, and features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the description herein and the accompanying drawings.

[0018] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, provided is a cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system having an enclosure configured to be handheld and an ultrasonic acoustic assembly at least partially disposed within the enclosure. The ultrasonic acoustic assembly is configured to generate vibrational waves (e.g., amplitude components between 0.2 and 5.0 mils) and has a transducer, the transducer defining a fixed length extending between a first end and a second end thereof. The ultrasonic acoustic assembly further has an acoustic transformer, where the length of the acoustic transformer defines, in part, a resonant frequency f0. The acoustic transformer is connected to and extends from the transducer at a junction, and a tip is removably connected to a distal end of the acoustic transformer. A rotatable grip is coupled to the acoustic transformer at a nodal region of the acoustic transformer and configured to rotate the ultrasonic acoustic assembly relative to the enclosure. An electronic control system is disposed within the enclosure and configured to energize the ultrasonic acoustic assembly. A battery is disposed within the enclosure and configured to power the electronic control system. A fluid source is also disposed within the enclosure and contains a fluid, the flow rate of the fluid from the fluid source being regulated, the regulated flow rate being controlled by the electronic control system.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the transducer is a Terfenol-D transducer.

[0020] In another aspect of the disclosure, the transducer has an elastic modulus of less than 50 GPa.

[0021] In another aspect of the disclosure, the tip is removably connected to the distal end of the acoustic transformer by a thread.

[0022] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the rotatable grip has a range of rotation relative to the enclosure of at least about 360 degrees.

[0023] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the torque required to rotate the rotatable grip relative to the enclosure is less than about 10 inch-ounces, and in some embodiments, within the range of about 1 inch-ounce to about 5 inch-ounces.

[0024] In yet another aspect of the disclosure, the battery is rechargeable.

[0025] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the electronic control system and the battery are removably removable from the enclosure.

[0026] In another aspect of the disclosure, a first portion of the enclosure housing the electronic control system and the battery is detachable from a second portion of the enclosure.

[0027] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the fluid source is a removable pod that contains fluids, which may include coolants (eg, water), sterile fluids, and / or medications.

[0028] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the regulated flow rate of the fluid from the fluid source is proportional to the output amplitude of the vibrational waves generated by the acoustic assembly, the proportionality can be linear or non-linear.

[0029] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a substantially uniform pressure is applied to the fluid contained within the fluid source. The applied pressure (in some embodiments, the substantially uniform pressure) can be in the range of about 2 psi to about 10 psi, and in some embodiments, in the range of about 3 psi to about 5 psi.

[0030] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a spring is disposed within the enclosure and configured to exert pressure on fluid contained within the fluid source.

[0031] An ultrasonic acoustic assembly is provided in accordance with the present disclosure and configured for use with a cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system. The acoustic assembly is configured to generate vibrational waves (e.g., amplitude components between 0.2 and 5.0 mils) and includes a transducer, an acoustic transformer, and a keyed part. The transducer defines a fixed length extending between a first end and a second end of the transducer. The acoustic transformer is connected to and extends from the transducer at a junction. The keyed part is disposed on the transducer that is maintained in compression between the acoustic transformer and the keyed part. The keyed part and the acoustic transformer are configured to inhibit relative rotational motion of the transducer during compression.

[0032] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the operating frequency of the acoustic assembly is in the range of about 18 kHz to 55 kHz, or in some embodiments, in the range of about 20 kHz to 30 kHz.

[0033] In another aspect of the disclosure, the keyed parts prevent relative rotational (angular) motion of the transducers during compression. Additionally, the acoustic transformer may be constrained both angularly and axially, for example at nodal regions of the acoustic assembly.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the transducer is a Terfenol-D transducer.

[0035] The system of the present disclosure is completely portable, thereby reducing cord clutter, hazards, and ergonomic issues for in-office use and expanding access to dental procedures, for example, for people in remote areas, patients unable to travel to a dental clinic or office for treatment, remote dental procedure applications, military applications, areas without clean water or reliable power, etc.

[0036] In certain embodiments, any of the scaler systems disclosed herein may include a remote (e.g., wireless) connection to a controller to allow for remote control of the device's on / off operation, power output, and / or coolant flow rate.

[0037] In certain embodiments, any of the scaler systems disclosed herein may include a remote (e.g., voice control) connection to a control device to allow for remote control of the device's on / off operation, power output, and / or coolant flow rate.

[0038] In certain embodiments, any of the systems of the present disclosure may include a refillable or replaceable fluid chamber, e.g., in the form of a flexible packet, disposed within a compartment. In such embodiments, the component (or components therein) may be configured to control the flow of fluid (e.g., by pressurizing or depressurizing the fluid chamber and / or opening and closing a valve, such as a solenoid). The flow rate may be controlled at a duty cycle of 0-75%. In these embodiments, the replaceable fluid packet may be disposed within the compartment having a removable cap, which allows replacement of the fluid packet and exerts a compressive force on the fluid packet to create a pressure within the fluid packet. The cap may be attached by threading and / or the compressive force may create a pressure within the fluid packet of about 2 psi to about 10 psi, or, in certain embodiments, about 3 psi to about 5 psi.

[0039] In some aspects, any of the systems of the present disclosure may include an electronic drive circuit that is substantially less complex than prior art systems, thus facilitating use in portable battery-powered systems. In particular, the drive circuit does not require sampling of drive voltage and current to select an optimal operating point. In such aspects, the power source is electrically connected to the transducer in a manner that produces vibrational energy upon actuation, and the acoustic transformer connects with the transducer under prestress conditions and provides a coupling means for a removable dental tool. An electronic circuit controls the frequency and amplitude of the ultrasonic transducer, and a preselected fixed frequency maintains a user-selectable output amplitude level over a predetermined operating range.

[0040] In some embodiments, any of the disclosed systems can provide fluid flow to a working tool and minimize the amount of fluid required by controlling the flow rate of the fluid under pressure. The flow rate is determined by the amplitude level of the tool during the procedure. That is, the output flow rate can be controlled based on the output amplitude (in some embodiments, the fluid flow rate is proportional to the amplitude). The control components can be mounted locally within the system or remotely to an external controller. In either configuration, the total amount of fluid required during the procedure can be minimized without affecting fluid efficiency, allowing for hands-free operation and eliminating errors associated with manual adjustment of the flow rate.

[0041] In embodiments, any transducer in the systems of the present disclosure may utilize a Terfenol-D transducer. One or more tuning components may be provided to stabilize and minimize lateral or rotational movement of the Terfenol-D transducer during preload so that the Terfenol-D transducer may be optimally compressed without breaking.

[0042] In some embodiments, the Terfenol-D transducer is preloaded between 100 and 20,000 psi. Additionally or alternatively, the Terfenol-D transducer may define a resonant length. In some embodiments, the transducer is an nλ / 4 transducer, where n is 1 or 2, and the operating frequency ranges from about 18 kHz to about 55 kHz, or, in some embodiments, from about 20 kHz to about 30 kHz.

[0043] Any transducer in the system of the present disclosure may provide an output amplitude in the range of 0.2 to 5.0 mils in the absence of feedback and magnetic bias of the transducer.

[0044] Any of the systems of the present disclosure may be further configured to allow up to 360 degree rotation of the instrument grip and tool (in some cases unlimited rotation) to improve accommodation to dentition angles. Such rotation may be provided with a torque of less than about 10 inch-ounces and / or in the range of 1 inch-ounces to 5 inch-ounces.

[0045] In additional or alternative embodiments, the one or more batteries and electronics are supported within a power pack that is removably connected to the handpiece. In such embodiments, the one or more batteries may be enclosed within the electronics (drive circuitry) to provide a compact configuration. Additionally, a solenoid for regulating the flow of coolant may also be located within the power pack. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0046] Various aspects and features of the disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings.

[0047] [Figure 1] 1 is an amplitude plot of an ultrasound acoustic system according to the present disclosure.

[0048] [Diagram 2] 1 is a graph illustrating an ultrasonic acoustic system profile of an ultrasonic acoustic system having a node pin in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0049] [Diagram 3] 1 is a stress graph for an ultrasonic acoustic system according to the present disclosure.

[0050] [Figure 4A] 3 is a chart providing linear design parameters according to the boxed numbers of FIG. 2 for an ultrasonic acoustic system.

[0051] [Figure 4B] 1 is a chart illustrating design parameters and output data for an ultrasound acoustic system.

[0052] [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an ultrasonic acoustic system.

[0053] [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system according to the present disclosure, including an ultrasonic acoustic system, a fluid system, a battery, and an electronic control system.

[0054] [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0055] 1 and 2, FIG. 1 shows a graph 1 of the output amplitude of an ultrasonic acoustic system or ultrasonic driver 2 (FIG. 2) according to the present disclosure, and FIG. 2 shows the ultrasonic driver 2 shown as a half shape with the assembly axis as the line of symmetry. The amplitude at the proximal end of the ultrasonic driver 2 is about 0.25 microns, and the output amplitude at the distal end of the ultrasonic driver 2 is about 1.0 microns. The output amplitude of the ultrasonic driver 2 shown in FIG. 2 represents an acoustic system configuration where the ultrasonic vibration waves generated are primarily longitudinal waves.

[0056] 2, the ultrasonic driver 2 is shown defining a full lambda configuration in which the system has two nodal regions. The second nodal region has a through hole 3 that allows the ultrasonic driver 2 to be attached to a grip 16 (FIG. 6).

[0057] Referring to Figure 3, graph 4 shows the stress along the ultrasonic driver 2 (Figure 2), with the sign of the stress value determined by the relative position along the assembly to the nodal area. For simplicity, values ​​are shown for an output amplitude of approximately 1.0 micron. The actual stress value can be estimated by multiplying the graphed value by the magnitude of the actual output amplitude.

[0058] Figure 4A shows example design parameters for ultrasonic driver 2 (Figure 2), including parameters for various sections in the design, including section lengths, diameters, and transition radii, with each boxed number in Figure 2 corresponding to a surface identified in the chart of Figure 4A. The material ("MAT") of each section is also referenced in conjunction with the chart of Figure 4B.

[0059] Figure 4B is a chart listing the design parameters for the materials charted in Figure 4A along with the location, diameter, and depth of the nodal support holes, also called the front spanner holes, and calculated output values, including the operating frequency, resonator gain, and the location and value of maximum stress in ultrasonic driver 2 (Figure 2).

[0060] FIG. 5 shows an ultrasonic acoustic system or ultrasonic driver 2 mounted in a housing 7, with a transducer 13, which is a Terfenol-D crystal transducer, held in compression between an acoustic transformer 9 and an end mass 12. The transducer 13 has a fixed length extending between a first end and a second end of the transducer 13. The acoustic transformer 9 is connected to and extends from the transducer 13 at a joint. The acoustic transformer 9 is constrained (rotationally, and in some embodiments also axially) by the housing 7 at a nodal region 11, for example, via engagement of complementary mechanical features of the acoustic transformer 9 and the housing 7. A keyed part 10 disposed between the load mass 12 and the transducer 13 limits the rotational (angular) movement of the transducer 13 during compression (when assembled), thus reducing the risk of breaking the transducer, e.g., the Terfenol-D crystals, and also limits the axial movement of the transducer 13. Coil 8 is disposed about transducer 13 such that a drive signal applied to coil 8 from an electronic control system, e.g., a transducer driver 33 (FIG. 7) of the electronic control system, generates a magnetic field that generates vibrational waves along ultrasonic driver 2 and a resultant output amplitude 1 (FIG. 1) at a working tool (e.g., tip 15 (FIG. 6)) of ultrasonic driver 2. In this manner, the various components of ultrasonic driver 2 are operatively coupled and at least partially retained within housing 7.

[0061] FIG. 6 illustrates a cordless, battery-powered ultrasonic dental scaler system 18 according to the present disclosure. The system 18 includes an enclosure 5 configured as a hand-held enclosure defining any suitable configuration, such as, for example, a barrel-type configuration, a pistol-type configuration (as shown), etc. The system 18 incorporates a fluid source (e.g., as part of an in-line cooling system) having a cap 23 that cooperates with a pressurizing member 22, and a fluid chamber 21 (which in some embodiments may be regenerative or replaceable). The system 18 further includes an ultrasonic acoustic assembly or ultrasonic driver 14 (which may be similar to or include any or all of the features of ultrasonic driver 2 (see FIGS. 1-5)), an electronics and battery compartment 20, a fluid flow control 19 (e.g., a solenoid), a rotatable grip 16 that may be rotatable by a support 17 to rotate the ultrasonic driver 14 relative to the enclosure 5, and a working tool or tip 15 attached to the ultrasonic driver 14 and extending from the rotatable grip 16. The tip 15 may be removably connected to the acoustic transformer 9 (FIG. 5) of the ultrasonic driver 14, for example, via a threaded engagement. The electronics and battery compartment 20 (which in some embodiments forms part of the enclosure 5) may be removable from the enclosure 5 (or another portion of the enclosure 5) and / or the electronics and battery (not shown in FIG. 6) may be removable from the compartment 20 to facilitate sterilization of the system 18. The rotatable grip 16 may be configured to rotate with a low torque to rotate the ultrasonic driver 14 relative to the enclosure 5, and may rotate through a range of motion up to 360 degrees. In other embodiments, unlimited rotation is permitted. The low torque may be less than about 10 in-oz and / or in some embodiments, in the range of about 1 in-oz to about 5 in-oz.

[0062] 6, a fluid flow control 19 (e.g., a solenoid) is coupled to the fluid chamber 21 and to a reservoir 24 defined within the enclosure 5 via suitable fluid conduits, not shown. The fluid flow control 19 is configured to be battery powered and controlled by electronics 29 (FIG. 7) to measure fluid flow from the fluid chamber 21, i.e., to selectively allow fluid to be delivered from the fluid chamber 21 into the reservoir 24, through the rotatable grip 16, around the ultrasonic driver 14 for delivery to the interface with the teeth of the working tool (e.g., tip 15) and / or for cooling of the ultrasonic driver 14. One or more seals 25 may be provided to define the reservoir 24 and / or direct the flow of fluid while inhibiting fluid from reaching sensitive components, such as the electronics, battery, transducer (Terfenol-D crystals), and / or leaking at the interface with the grip. While the fluid chamber 21 is shown as a regenerative packet or pod, it is contemplated that it may alternatively be in the form of a reservoir. In any of these or other embodiments, the fluid in the fluid chamber 21, e.g., coolant, sterile fluid, medication, etc., is held under pressure via a spring 22 (or other suitable biasing member) held by a cap 23. The cap or pressurized cap 23 may be removably engaged with the enclosure 5 of the system 18 to allow replacement of the fluid chamber 21 (and / or the fluid therein) via, e.g., threaded engagement, and pressurization upon re-engagement of the cap 23. In certain embodiments, the fluid chamber 21 may be configured to hold at least 50 ml of fluid and may be easily refilled or replaced with a new fluid chamber 21 (e.g., a fluid pod or packet) as needed during a dental procedure.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 7, a simplified block diagram showing a system 26 of the functional components of the cordless, battery-powered ultrasonic dental scaler system 18 (FIG. 6) is shown. The system 26 includes a frequency control circuit 28 coupled to an amplitude control circuit 29, which is coupled to a transducer driver circuit 33. The system 26 may further include a remote control module 27 configured to communicate with one or more external controllers, such as, for example, a wireless foot switch, not shown. It is also contemplated that a voice control module may be included that uses simple voice commands to control all functions, including on / off, output amplitude level, mode selection where applicable, fluid control, and other modes as understood in the art. A cable port, not shown, may be provided for wired connection of an external controller. Manual controls, such as controls on the enclosure 5 (FIG. 6), are alternatively contemplated for some or all of the features described above.

[0064] In one aspect, at least the frequency control circuit 28, the amplitude control circuit 29, and the transducer driver circuit 33 form an electronic control system, although other control circuits are contemplated. The electronic control system may additionally or alternatively include a remote control module 27 and / or fluid or coolant control circuitry 31 (discussed in more detail below). A power source, such as a battery, battery pack 30, or the like, is provided to power, for example, the electronic components of the electronic control system. One or more batteries of the battery pack 30 (collectively or individually as the battery pack 30) may be rechargeable and / or replaceable.

[0065] The amplitude control circuit 29 is also connected to a fluid or coolant control circuit 31 and configured to vary the fluid or coolant flow rate based on the output amplitude, thereby providing hands-free coolant flow rate control. The coolant control circuit 31 is connected to a coolant module 35 (e.g., fluid chamber 21 (FIG. 6)) and controls the coolant on / off function, for example, by operating a solenoid 19 (see FIG. 6). A pressurization system 36 pressurizes the coolant module 35 via an active pressurization device associated with a pressurization cap 23 (see FIG. 6) in addition to or as an alternative to a spring 22 (FIG. 6), at a pressure or pressure range, for example, from about 2 psi to about 10 psi, or in other embodiments, from about 3 psi to about 5 psi. In some embodiments, the pressure or pressure range is predetermined and / or substantially uniform.

[0066] An ultrasonic acoustic system, ultrasonic driver, or acoustic system 34 (e.g., similar to those detailed herein) receives signals from a transducer driver circuit 33 (powered by a battery pack 30) during ultrasonic operation and receives coolant from a coolant module 35. The system can also be configured to provide coolant with or without ultrasonic operation, thereby allowing for cleaning options. The acoustic system 34 then generates a vibration wave amplitude at a working tool (tip) 32, which may be an ultrasonic dental scaler tip. A solenoid 19 or other suitable flow controller for adjusting the flow rate of the fluid may be adjusted at a rate proportional to the output amplitude of the vibration wave at the working tool (tip) 32, the proportionality being linear or non-linear.

[0067] It will be understood that the aspects and features disclosed herein may be varied in various ways, and thus the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as illustrative of various aspects and features.

Claims

1. A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system comprising an enclosure, an ultrasonic acoustic assembly, a rotatable grip, an electronic control system, a battery, and a fluid source; the enclosure is configured to be handheld; the ultrasonic acoustic assembly is disposed at least partially within the enclosure and configured to generate vibrational waves, the ultrasonic acoustic assembly having a transducer, an acoustic transformer, and a tip; the transducer defines a fixed length extending between a first end and a second end of the transducer; the acoustic transformer is connected to the transducer at a junction and extends therefrom; the tip is removably connected to a distal end of the acoustic transformer; the rotatable grip is coupled to the acoustic transformer at a nodal region of the acoustic transformer and is configured to rotate the ultrasonic acoustic assembly relative to the enclosure; the electronic control system is disposed within the enclosure and configured to energize the ultrasonic acoustic assembly; the battery is disposed within the enclosure and configured to power the electronic control system; A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the fluid source is disposed within the enclosure and contains a fluid, the flow rate of the fluid from the fluid source is regulated, and the regulated flow rate is controlled by the electronic control system.

2. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the transducer is a Terfenol-D transducer.

3. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the transducer has an elastic modulus of less than 50 GPa.

4. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, The transducer is configured to operate as an nλ / 4 transducer, where n=1, and has a resonant frequency f ｏ is defined by the fixed length of the transducer.

5. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the tip is removably coupled to the distal end of the acoustic transformer by a screw.

6. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the rotatable grip has a range of rotation of at least about 360 degrees relative to the enclosure.

7. 7. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 6, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein a torque required to rotate the rotatable grip relative to the enclosure is less than about 10 inch-ounces.

8. 7. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 6, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the torque required to rotate the rotatable grip relative to the enclosure is within a range of about 1 inch-ounce to about 5 inch-ounces.

9. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the battery is rechargeable.

10. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the electronic control system and the battery are removably removable from the enclosure.

11. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein a first portion of the enclosure housing the electronic control system and the battery is detachable relative to a second portion of the enclosure.

12. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the fluid source is a removable pod that contains the fluid.

13. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the fluid comprises at least one of a sterile fluid and a medication.

14. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the regulated flow rate of the fluid from the fluid source is proportional to the output amplitude of the vibration waves generated by the acoustic assembly.

15. 15. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 14, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the proportionality between the regulated flow rate of the fluid from the fluid source and the output amplitude of the vibration waves generated by the acoustic assembly is linear.

16. 15. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 14, a proportionality between the regulated flow rate of the fluid from the fluid source and the output amplitude of the vibrational wave generated by the acoustic assembly is nonlinear; Cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system.

17. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein a substantially uniform pressure is applied to the fluid contained within the fluid source.

18. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the pressure applied to the fluid contained within the fluid source is within a range of about 2 psi to about 10 psi.

19. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, A cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the pressure applied to the fluid contained within the fluid source is within a range of about 3 psi to about 5 psi.

20. 2. The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 1, The cordless ultrasonic dental scaler system further comprising a spring disposed within the enclosure, the spring configured to apply pressure to the fluid contained within the fluid source.

21. 1. An ultrasonic acoustic assembly configured for use with an ultrasonic dental scaler system, the assembly being configured to generate vibrational waves and having a transducer, an acoustic transformer, and a keyed component; the transducer defines a fixed length extending between a first end and a second end of the transducer; the acoustic transformer is connected to the transducer at a junction and extends therefrom; 1. An ultrasonic acoustic assembly, wherein the transducer is maintained in compression between the acoustic transformer and the keyed part, the keyed part and the acoustic transformer configured to inhibit relative rotational motion of the transducer during compression.

22. 22. The acoustic assembly of claim 21, An ultrasonic acoustic assembly, wherein an operating frequency of the ultrasonic acoustic assembly is within a range of about 18 kHz to about 55 kHz.

23. 22. The acoustic assembly of claim 21, An ultrasonic acoustic assembly, wherein an operating frequency of the ultrasonic acoustic assembly is within a range of about 20 kHz to about 30 kHz.

24. 22. The acoustic assembly of claim 21, The keyed part inhibits relative axial movement of the transducers during the compression.

25. 22. The acoustic assembly of claim 21, An acoustic assembly, wherein the acoustic transformer is both axially and rotationally constrained.

26. 26. The acoustic assembly of claim 25, An acoustic assembly, wherein the acoustic transformer is constrained at a nodal region of the acoustic assembly.

27. 22. The acoustic assembly of claim 21, The acoustic assembly, wherein the transducer is a Terfenol-D transducer.

28. 22. The acoustic assembly of claim 21, The transducer is configured to operate as an nλ / 4 transducer, where n=1, and has a resonant frequency f ｏ is defined by the length of the transducer.

29. 22. The acoustic assembly of claim 21, The acoustic assembly, wherein the transducer has a modulus of elasticity of less than 50 GPa.

30. 1. An ultrasonic dental scaler system comprising: an enclosure; an ultrasonic acoustic assembly; and a rotatable grip; the enclosure is configured to be handheld; the ultrasonic acoustic assembly is disposed at least partially within the enclosure and configured to generate vibrational waves, the ultrasonic acoustic assembly having a transducer, an acoustic transformer, and a tip; the transducer defines a fixed length extending between a first end and a second end of the transducer; the acoustic transformer is connected to the transducer at a junction and extends therefrom; the tip is removably connected to a distal end of the acoustic transformer; The rotatable grip is coupled to the acoustic transformer at a nodal region of the acoustic transformer and configured to rotate the ultrasonic acoustic assembly relative to the enclosure.

31. 31. The ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 30, An ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein an operating frequency of said ultrasonic acoustic assembly is within a range of about 18 kHz to about 55 kHz.

32. 31. The ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 30, An ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein an operating frequency of said ultrasonic acoustic assembly is within a range of about 20 kHz to about 30 kHz.

33. 31. The ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 30, An ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the acoustic transformer is constrained to a nodal region of the ultrasonic acoustic assembly.

34. 31. The ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 30, An ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the transducer is a Terfenol-D transducer.

35. 31. The ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 30, The transducer is configured to operate as an nλ / 4 transducer, where n=1, and has a resonant frequency f ｏ is defined by the length of the transducer.

36. 31. The ultrasonic dental scaler system of claim 30, An ultrasonic dental scaler system, wherein the transducer has an elastic modulus of less than 50 GPa.

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