Patent ID: 7439463

Claim:
A foot switch device for controlling the operation of a dental or medical treatment apparatus, comprising: a base plate for supporting the foot switch device on the floor; a housing attached to the base plate, the housing containing a first electrical switch for transmitting a first signal to the apparatus and a second electrical switch for transmitting a second signal to the apparatus, and an actuator assembly for activating the switches, the actuator assembly comprising: (i) an actuating plunger capable of moving in upward and downward directions, (ii) a first switch activator tab, and (iii) a second switch activator tab, wherein a force applied to the plunger causes the plunger to move downwardly to a first position, where it engages the first switch activator tab, thereby causing the first switch to be activated, and a second force applied to the plunger causes the plunger to move downwardly to a second position where it engages a second switch activator tab, thereby causing the second switch to be activated; an upper cover mounted on the housing, the cover being moveable relative to the housing, for engaging the actuating plunger; and a connecting collar attached to the upper cover for retaining the cover on the housing while allowing the cover to move upwardly and downwardly relative to the housing.