BR112017018157B1 - SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM - Google Patents

Abstract

POWER ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT. The present invention relates to a surgical instrument system comprising a handle and a battery positioned in the handle. The system may additionally include a power adapter which can replace the battery and can supply power from an alternate power source. In other cases, the system may include a power adapter which is matable with the battery to provide power from an alternate power source. The power adapter can be placed in series with the battery. Alternatively, coupling the power adapter to the cable can electrically decouple the battery from the cable. A supplementary battery is also disclosed herein which can be attached to the cable to provide additional power to the cable.

Description

BACKGROUND

[001] The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various embodiments, surgical stapling and cutting instruments and staple cartridges for use therewith.

[002] A stapling instrument may include a pair of collaborating elongated claw members, each claw member being adapted to be inserted into a patient and positioned relative to the tissue to be stapled and/or cut. In various embodiments, one of the claw members can support a staple cartridge with at least two laterally spaced rows of staples contained therein, and the other claw member can support an anvil with staple forming pockets aligned with the rows of staples. in the staple cartridge. In general, the stapling apparatus may additionally include a pusher bar and knife blade that are slidable with respect to the gripper member to sequentially eject staples from the staple cartridge through cam surfaces on the drive bar and/or cam surfaces. on a wedge rail that is pushed by the push bar. In at least one embodiment, the cam surfaces may be configured to activate a plurality of staple drivers carried by the cartridge and associated with the staples to push the staples against the anvil and form laterally spaced rows of deformed staples in the tissue trapped between the staples. claw limbs. In at least one embodiment, the knife blade can follow the cam surfaces and cut the fabric along a line between the staple rows. Examples of such stapling instruments are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,794,475, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLES HAVING COMPRESSIBLE OR CRUSHABLE MEMBERS FOR SECURING TISSUE THEREIN AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTS FOR DEPLOYING THE SAME", whose entire disclosure is incorporated herein, by reference.

[003] The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate various aspects of the related art in the field of the invention at present and should not be taken as a denial of the scope of the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[004] Several characteristics of the modalities described herein, together with their advantages, can be understood according to the description presented below, considered in conjunction with the attached drawings, as follows:

[005] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a modular surgical system that includes a motor-driven cable module and three interchangeable and separable drive shaft modules;

[006] Figure 2 is a side perspective view of the cable module of Figure 1 with a portion of the cable compartment removed for clarity;

[007] Figure 3 is a partial exploded view of the cable module assembly of Figure 1;

[008] Figure 4 is another partial exploded view of the cable module assembly of Figure 1;

[009] Figure 5 is a side elevation view of the cable module of Figure 1 with a portion of the cable compartment removed;

[0010] Figure 6 is an exploded view of the assembly of a mechanical coupling system for operationally coupling the rotary drive systems of the cable module of Figure 1 to the drive systems of a separable drive shaft module;

[0011] Figure 7 is a block diagram representing the electrical components of the cable module of Figure 1 and the separable drive shaft module;

[0012] Figure 8 is a diagram of a process flow executed by a cable processor of the cable module of Figure 1 to determine when the cable module reaches the end of its useful life;

[0013] Figure 9 is another diagram of a process flow executed by the cable module processor of Figure 1 to determine when the cable module reaches its end of life;

[0014] Figure 10A is a graph showing differences between the firing and retracting forces expected to be applied by the cable module of Figure 1 and the firing and retracting forces actually applied by the cable module as a function of the drive shaft module stroke;

[0015] Figure 10B is a diagram of a process flow executed by the cable processor of the cable module of Figure 1 to determine when the cable module reaches its end of life based on the differences between the trip and the forces of retraction expected to be applied by the cable module of Figure 1 and the actual triggering and retraction forces applied by the cable module;

[0016] Figure 10C is a diagram of a process flow executed by the cable module cable processor of Figure 1 to determine when the cable module reaches its end of life based on the energy expended by the cable module during the usage, in the aggregate, and the energy expended by the cable module during each use;

[0017] Figure 10D is a graph showing an example of the energy expended by the cable module over several device activations, in the aggregate;

[0018] Figure 10E is a graph showing an example of the power expended during each activation of the cable module of Figure 1;

[0019] Figures 11A and 11B illustrate a sterilization tray in which a cable module can be inserted for sterilization;

[0020] Figures 11C and 11D illustrate a sterilization tray in which a cable module and a separable drive shaft module can be inserted for sterilization;

[0021] Figure 11E illustrates another sterilization tray into which a cable module can be inserted for sterilization;

[0022] Figures 11F, 11G, 11H and 11I illustrate aspects of the sterilization tray of Figure 11E interfacing with a cable module;

[0023] Figures 12A, 12B and 12E illustrate an inspection station for inspecting a cable module before, during and/or after a surgical procedure;

[0024] Figure 12C is a block diagram of the inspection station and the cable module;

[0025] Figure 12D is a diagram of a process flow performed by the cable module's cable processor to determine when the cable module reaches its end of life based on a number of times the cable module is placed at the inspection station;

[0026] Figure 13A is a block diagram illustrating aspects of a cable module and a removable battery pack, the battery pack including an identification emitter so that the cable module can identify the battery pack ;

[0027] Figure 13B illustrates a process flow executed by the cable processor of the cable module of Figure 13A to determine when the cable module reaches its end of life based on a number of times a set of batteries has been installed on the cable module;

[0028] Figures 14A, 14B and 14C illustrate aspects of a cable module that detects the attachment of a separable drive shaft module to it;

[0029] Figure 14D illustrates a cable module and a separable drive shaft module, and the cable module detects the attachment of the separable drive shaft module to it;

[0030] Figure 14E illustrates the cable module of Figure 14D, in which the cable module also detects the attachment of a removable battery pack;

[0031] Figures 14F and 14G illustrate a sensor for the cable module of Figure 14D to detect the insertion of a removable battery pack in it;

[0032] Figures 15A and 15B illustrate another sensor for the cable module to detect the insertion of a removable battery pack in it;

[0033] Figure 16 illustrates a cable module with multiple power supply units;

[0034] Figures 17A and 17B illustrate additional process flows performed by the cable processor of a cable module to determine when the cable module reaches its end of life;

[0035] Figures 18A, 18B and 18C illustrate a cable module with a mechanism that prevents the insertion of a battery pack under certain circumstances;

[0036] Figures 18D and 18E illustrate a cable module mechanism of Figure 18A that prevents removal of the battery pack from the cable module under certain circumstances;

[0037] Figures 19A, 19B and 19C illustrate a charging station and a cable module, in which the charging station must charge a set of batteries from the cable module;

[0038] Figures 20A and 20B illustrate a cable module with sterilization covers to cover components of the cable module during sterilization thereof;

[0039] Figure 20C illustrates a sterilization cover for a battery cavity of the cable module of Figure 20A;

[0040] Figure 20D illustrates a removable battery pack for the cable module of Figure 20A;

[0041] Figures 21A, 21B, 21C and 21D illustrate display configurations for a surgical instrument comprising a handle module and a separable drive shaft module;

[0042] Figure 22 illustrates a removable battery pack with an internal circuit board;

[0043] Figure 23A illustrates a cable module with a projection device that, when designed, prevents insertion of the cable module into a sterilization tray;

[0044] Figure 23B illustrates the cable module of Figure 23A and a sterilization tray;

[0045] Figures 24A and 24B illustrate a cable module inspection station for applying vacuum pressure to a cable module;

[0046] Figures 25A, 25B, 25C and 25D illustrate a cable module inspection station with one or more fans to dry the cable module;

[0047] Figure 25E illustrates an inspection station with a vacuum port to dry a cable module;

[0048] Figures 26A, 26B and 26C illustrate an inspection station, a cable module and a load simulation adapter to apply a simulated load to the cable module when the cable module is connected to the inspection station;

[0049] Figure 26D is a cross-sectional view of the load simulation adapter of Figures 26A to 26C;

[0050] Figure 26E is a graph illustrating a sample model of gear backlash for a cable module as a function of usage;

[0051] Figures 27A and 27B illustrate an inspection station that can accommodate both a cable module and a separable drive shaft module;

[0052] Figure 28A illustrates a process flow performed by an inspection station to make service recommendations for a cable module;

[0053] Figure 28B illustrates a process flow executed by a cable module processor to make service recommendations for a cable module;

[0054] Figure 29A illustrates a charging station for charging one or more removable battery packs that may be used in a cable module;

[0055] Figures 29B and 29C illustrate a charging station mechanism for securing a battery pack to the charging station;

[0056] Figure 29D is a block diagram of the charging station and a battery pack;

[0057] Figure 29E illustrates a process flow executed by a cable module loading station;

[0058] Figures 30A and 30B illustrate process flows performed by a cable module loading station;

[0059] Figures 31 and 32 are electrical schematic diagrams of a charging station;

[0060] Figure 33A is a top view of a battery pack;

[0061] Figure 33B is a top view of a charging station showing its contact configuration for the battery pack of Figure 33A;

[0062] Figure 34A is a top view of a battery pack;

[0063] Figure 34B is a top view of a charging station showing its contact configuration for the battery pack of Figure 34A;

[0064] Figure 35 is a flowchart of a process that uses an inspection station;

[0065] Figures 36 and 37 are process flowcharts illustrating exemplary steps to sterilize a cable module and to track the number of times it has been sterilized;

[0066] Figure 38 is a perspective view of a battery pack for use with a surgical instrument, the battery pack comprising a plurality of shock absorbing elements, according to at least one embodiment;

[0067] Figure 38A is a detailed cross-sectional view of one of the shock absorbing elements of the battery pack of Figure 38;

[0068] Figure 39 is a partial cross-sectional view of the battery pack of Figure 38;

[0069] Figure 40 is a perspective view of a battery pack for use with a surgical instrument comprising a battery compartment configured to protect one or more battery cells of the battery pack;

[0070] Figure 40A is a detailed cross-sectional view of the battery pack of Figure 40;

[0071] Figure 41 illustrates a cable of a surgical instrument system including a power adapter extending from the cable to a power supply according to at least one embodiment;

[0072] Figure 42 illustrates the cable of Figure 41, which is used selectively with the power adapter of Figure 41, or a power adapter system including a removable battery and a separable power cord in accordance with at least one modality;

[0073] Figure 43 is a schematic representation of a power adapter according to at least one embodiment;

[0074] Figure 44 is a schematic representation of a power adapter according to at least one embodiment;

[0075] Figure 45 is a perspective view of a handle of a surgical instrument system including a battery;

[0076] Figure 46 is a perspective view of a second battery attached to the handle of Figure 45; and

[0077] Figure 47 is a cross-sectional view of the cable and battery in Figure 45 and the second battery in Figure 46.

[0078] Matching reference characters indicate matching parts across the various views. The exemplifications described herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be considered as limiting the scope of the invention in any way.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] The applicant for this application holds the following patent applications that were filed on the same date as this application and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties: - US patent application serial no., titled SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFE PARAMETER; attorney document no. END7539USNP/140464; - US patent application serial number, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INSPECTION STATION; attorney document no. END7542USNP/140467; - US patent application serial number, entitled SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO ASSESS WHETHER A PERFORMANCE PARAMETER OF THE SURGICAL APPARATUS IS WITHIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE BAND; attorney document no. END7547USNP/140472; - US patent application serial number , entitled SURGICAL CHARGING SYSTEM THAT CHARGES AND/OR CONDITIONS ONE OR MORE BATTERIES; attorney document no. END7545USNP/140470; - US patent application serial number, entitled CHARGING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES EMERGENCY RESOLUTIONS FOR CHARGING A BATTERY; attorney document no. END7543USNP/140468; - US patent application serial number, entitled SYSTEM FOR MONITORING WHETHER A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT NEEDS TO BE SERVICED; attorney document no. END7558USNP/140483; - US patent application serial number, entitled REINFORCED BATTERY FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT; attorney document no. END7551USNP/140476; - US Patent Application Serial No. entitled ADAPTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE; attorney document no. END7541USNP/140466; and - US Patent Application Serial No. entitled MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY; attorney document no. END7544USNP/140469.

[0080] The applicant for this application is the author of the following patent applications that were filed on December 18, 2014 and which are all incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: - US Patent Application Serial No. 14 /574,478, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR AND MEANS FOR ADJUSTING THE FIRING STROKE OF A FIRING; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,483 entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LOCKABLE SYSTEMS; - US patent application serial number 14/575,139, entitled DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS; - US patent application serial number 14/575,148, entitled LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITH ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTORS; - US patent application serial number 14/575,130, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AN ANVIL THAT IS SELECTIVELY MOVABLE ABOUT A DISCRETE NON-MOVABLE AXIS RELATIVE TO A STAPLE CARTRIDGE; - US patent application serial number 14/575,143, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS; - US patent application serial number 14/575,117, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS; - US patent application serial number 14/575,154, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND IMPROVED FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS; - US patent application serial number 14/574,493, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FLEXIBLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM; and - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,500 entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKABLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM.

[0081] The applicant for this application is the author of the following patent applications that were filed on March 1, 2013 and which are all incorporated herein by reference, in their entirety: - US patent application serial number 13 /782,295, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CONDUCTIVE PATHWAYS FOR SIGNAL COMMUNICATION, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246471; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,323 entitled ROTARY POWERED ARTICULATION JOINTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246472; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,338 entitled THUMBWHEEL SWITCH ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0249557; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,499 entitled ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL DEVICE WITH SIGNAL RELAY ARRANGEMENT, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246474; - US PATENT APPLICATION SERIAL NO. 13/782,460, ENTITLED MULTIPLE PROCESSOR MOTOR CONTROL FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, NOW PUBLICATION US PATENT APPLICATION NO. 2014/0246478; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,358 entitled JOYSTICK SWITCH ASSEMBLIES FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246477; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,481 entitled SENSOR STRAIGHTENED END EFFECTOR DURING REMOVAL THROUGH TROCAR, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246479; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,518 entitled CONTROL METHODS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH REMOVABLE IMPLEMENT PORTIONS, now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0246475; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,375 entitled ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE DEGREES OF FREEDOM, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246473; and - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,536 entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SOFT STOP, now US Patent Application Publication No. 13/782,536. 2014/0246476.

[0082] The applicant for this application also owns the following patent applications that were filed on March 14, 2013 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties: - US patent application serial number 13 /803,097, titled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263542; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,193 entitled CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0263537; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,053, titled INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263564; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,210, entitled SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263538; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,148 entitled MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263554; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,066 entitled DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263565; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,117, entitled ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263553; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,130, entitled DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263543; and - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,159 entitled METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0277017.

[0083] The applicant for this application also owns the following patent application which was filed on March 7, 2014 and is incorporated herein, by reference, in its entirety: - US patent application Serial No. 14/200,111 entitled CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0263539.

[0084] The applicant for this application also owns the following patent applications that were filed March 26, 2014 and which are each incorporated herein, by reference, in their respective entireties: - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,106 entitled POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,099 entitled STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT; - US patent application serial number 14/226,094, entitled VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES/PROCEDURE COUNT; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,117 entitled POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND WAKE UP CONTROL; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,075 entitled MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,093, entitled FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS; - US patent application serial number 14/226,116, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION; - US patent application serial number 14/226,071, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETY PROCESSOR; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,097 entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS; - US patent application serial number 14/226,126, entitled INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,133 entitled MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM; - US patent application serial number 14/226,081, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SEGMENTED CIRCUIT; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,076 entitled POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLE VOLTAGE PROTECTION; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,111 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM; and - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,125 entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT.

[0085] The applicant for this application also owns the following patent applications that were filed on September 5, 2014 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties: - US Patent Application Serial No. 14 /479.103, entitled CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE; - US patent application serial number 14/479,119, entitled ADJUNCT WITH INTEGRATED SENSORS TO QUANTIFY TISSUE COMPRESSION; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/478,908 entitled MONITORING DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION; - US patent application serial number 14/478,895, entitled MULTIPLE SENSORS WITH ONE SENSOR AFFECTING A SECOND SENSOR'S OUTPUT OR INTERPRETATION; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,110 entitled USE OF POLARITY OF HALL MAGNET DETECTION TO DETECT MISLOADED CARTRIDGE; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,098 entitled SMART CARTRIDGE WAKE UP OPERATION AND DATA RETENTION; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,115 entitled MULTIPLE MOTOR CONTROL FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE; and - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,108 entitled LOCAL DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION.

[0086] The applicant for this application also owns the following patent applications that were filed on April 9, 2014 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties: - US Patent Application Serial No. 14 /248,590, titled MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVE SHAFTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305987; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,581, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSING DRIVE AND A FIRING DRIVE OPERATED FROM THE SAME ROTATABLE OUTPUT, now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0305989; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,595, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305988; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,588 entitled POWERED LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLER, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0309666; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,591 entitled TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305991; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,584, titled MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENT FEATURES FOR ALIGNING ROTARY DRIVE SHAFTS WITH SURGICAL END EFFECTOR SHAFTS, now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0305994; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,587 entitled POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0309665; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,586 entitled DRIVE SYSTEM DECOUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305990; and - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,607 entitled MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH STATUS INDICATION ARRANGEMENTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305992.

[0087] The applicant for this application also holds the following patent applications that were filed on April 16, 2013 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties: - US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,365, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY A SINGLE MOTOR; - US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,376 entitled LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER; - US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,382 entitled LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP; - US provisional patent application serial number 61/812,385, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLE ACTUATION MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL; and - US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,372 entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY A SINGLE MOTOR.

[0088] Numerous specific details are presented to provide a complete understanding of the structure, function, fabrication and general use of the modalities as described in the descriptive report and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Well known operations, components and elements have been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated in the present invention are non-limiting examples and, therefore, it is to be understood that the specific structural and functional details disclosed in the present invention may be representative and illustrative. Variations and alterations may be made thereto without deviating from the scope of the claims.

[0089] The terms "comprises" (and any form of comprises, such as "comprises" and "which comprises"), "has" (and any form of has, such as "has" and "which has"), "includes" (and any form of includes, such as "includes" and "which includes") and "contains" (and any form of contains, such as "contains" and "which contains") are unrestricted linking verbs. As a result, a surgical system, device or apparatus that "comprises", "has", "includes" or "contains" one or more elements has those one or more elements, but is not limited to having only those one or more elements . Likewise, an element of a surgical system, device or apparatus that "comprises", "has", "includes" or "contains" one or more features has those one or more

[0090] more resource, but is not limited to owning only those one or more resources.

[0091] The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used in the present invention with reference to a physician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the portion closest to the practitioner, and the term "distal" refers to the portion located away from the practitioner. It will also be understood that, for the sake of convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical", "horizontal", "up" and "down" may be used in the present invention in connection with the drawings. However, surgical instruments can be used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.

[0092] Several exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, the reader will readily understand that the various methods and devices disclosed in the present invention can be used in a number of surgical procedures and applications, including, for example, in connection with open surgical procedures. As this Detailed Description advances, the reader will further understand that the various instruments disclosed herein may be inserted into a body in any manner, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or perforation formed in tissue, etc. The functional portions or end actuator portions of the instruments may be inserted directly into a patient's body or may be inserted through an access device having a working channel through which the end actuator and elongated drive shaft of a surgical instrument can be advanced.

[0093] The surgical stapling system may comprise a drive shaft and an end actuator extending from the drive shaft. The end actuator comprises a first jaw and a second jaw. The first gripper comprises a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge is insertable into and removable from the first jaw; however, other embodiments are envisaged in which a staple cartridge is not removable, or at least readily replaceable, from the first jaw. The second gripper comprises an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge. The second claw pivots with respect to the first claw around a geometric axis of the lid; however, other embodiments are envisaged in which the first claw is pivotal with respect to the second claw. The surgical stapling system further comprises a pivot joint configured to allow the end actuator to be pivoted or pivoted relative to the drive shaft. The end actuator is rotatable about a pivot axis that extends through the pivot joint. Other embodiments are envisaged which do not include a pivot joint.

[0094] The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body. The cartridge body includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a platform extending between the proximal end and the distal end. In use, the staple cartridge is positioned on a first side of the tissue to be stapled and the anvil is positioned on a second side of the tissue. The anvil is moved towards the staple cartridge to compress and secure the tissue against the platform. Thereafter, the staples removablely stored in the cartridge body can be delivered to the tissue. The cartridge body includes clip cavities defined therein, the clips being removablely stored in the clip cavities. The staple cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows. Three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of a longitudinal slot and three rows of staple pockets are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of staple cavities and staples may be possible.

[0095] The staples are supported by staple drivers in the cartridge body. The actuators are movable between a first position, or unfired position, and a second position, or fired position, for ejecting staples from staple cavities. The actuators are retained in the cartridge body by a retainer that extends around the bottom of the cartridge body and includes resilient members configured to grip the cartridge body and retain the retainer in the cartridge body. Triggers are movable between their non-triggered positions and their positions triggered by a slider. The slider is movable between a proximal position adjacent to the proximal end and a distal position adjacent to the distal end. The slider comprises a plurality of inclined surfaces configured to slide under the drivers and lift the drivers, and the clamps supported thereon, towards the anvil.

[0096] In addition to the above, the slider is moved distally by a trigger member. The trigger member is configured to contact the slider and push the slider toward the distal end. The longitudinal slot defined in the cartridge body is configured to receive the firing member. The anvil also includes a slot configured to receive the firing member. The trigger member further comprises a first cam that engages the first jaw and a second cam that engages the second claw. As the trigger member is advanced distally, the first cam and second cam can control the distance, or tissue gap, between the staple cartridge platform and the anvil. The trigger member also comprises a knife configured to make an incision in tissue captured between the anvil and the staple cartridge. It is desirable that the knife be positioned at least partially proximal to the inclined surfaces so that the staples are ejected ahead of the knife.

[0097] An end actuator can be configured to pivot in relation to the handle and/or shaft of a surgical instrument. For example, the end actuator can be pivotally and/or rotatably coupled to the shaft of the surgical instrument such that the end actuator is configured to rotate with respect to the shaft and handle. In many cases, the end actuator can be configured to pivot on a pivot joint located between the end actuator and the shaft. In other cases, the shaft may include a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a pivot joint, which may be located between the proximal position and the distal portion of the shaft, for example.

[0098] Figures 1 to 5 illustrate aspects of a surgical instrument for cutting and fixing that, in one form, includes a motor-driven reusable cable module 10 that can be used, and reused, in connection with one or a variety of separable (and typically reusable) driveshaft modules (DSM). As described in detail below, cable module 10 may include a housing 12 with one or more motor-driven rotary drive systems that generate and apply various control motions to corresponding drive shaft portions of a particular DSM coupled thereto. Two such rotary drive systems 20, 40 are shown on cable module 10 of Figures 1 and 5. The first rotary drive system 20 can, for example, be used to apply "closing" motions to a drive shaft assembly of corresponding closure that is operatively supported in the DSM, and the second rotary drive system can be used, for example, to apply "firing" motions to a corresponding firing drive shaft assembly in the DSM that is coupled thereto. The various DSMs may be releasably and interchangeably attached to the housing 12. Three exemplary DSMs that may be attached to the cable module 10 in various embodiments are depicted in Figure 1. The exemplary DSMs depicted include an open linear stapler DSM 1, an DSM 2 curved cut stapler and a DSM 3 circular surgical stapler. Other types of DSM that are adapted for the drive systems 20, 40 of the cable module 10 may also be used, including an endocutter DSM, which is described in detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. , MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY, attorney's document no. END7544USNP/140469, which was filed on the same date as this application and is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Further details regarding a surgical instrument for cutting and clamping with dual drive are provided in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,590 entitled MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVE SHAFTS, FILED ON APRIL 9, 2014, THIS HEREON, "THE '590 ORDER", WHICH IS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE IN ITS ENTIRETY.

[0099] As shown in Figures 1 to 5, the compartment 12 comprises a cable 14 that is configured to be held, manipulated and actuated by a physician. Cable 14 may comprise a pair of cable housing segments 16 and 18 which may be interconnected by screws, press fit features, adhesives, etc. In the illustrated arrangement, the handle housing segments 16, 18 cooperate to form a pistol grip portion 19 which can be grasped and manipulated by the clinician. The handle 14 operatively supports the two rotary drive systems 20, 40.

[00100] The first and second rotary drive systems 20, 40 can be powered by a motor 80 through a "displaceable" transmission assembly 60 that essentially shifts power/motion between two power trains. The first rotary drive system 20 includes a first rotary drive shaft 22 which is pivotally supported in housing 12 of cable 14 and defines a first "FDA-FDA" drive shaft geometry. The first drive gear 24 is keyed about or otherwise non-rotatably attached to the first rotary drive shaft 22 for rotation therewith about the first axis of the FDA-FDA drive shaft. Similarly, the second rotary drive system 40 includes a second rotary drive shaft 42 that is pivotally supported in housing 12 of cable 14 and defines a second drive shaft geometry "SDA-SDA". In at least one arrangement, the second axis of the SDA-SDA drive shaft is displaced and parallel to, or substantially parallel to, the first axis of the FDA-FDA drive shaft. As used in this context, the term "offset" means that the first and second geometry axes of the drive shaft are not coaxial. The second rotary drive shaft 42 has a second drive gear 44 keyed about, or otherwise non-rotatably attached to the second drive shaft 42 for rotation therewith about the axis of the second drive shaft, SDA-SDA . Furthermore, the second drive shaft 42 has an idler drive gear 46 with a pivot journal thereon so that the idler drive gear 46 is freely rotatable about the second drive shaft 42 rotatable about the second axis of the drive shaft SDA-SDA.

[00101] In one form, the motor 80 includes a motor output shaft 81 that has a motor drive gear 82 attached thereto. Motor drive gear 82 is configured to interpose "operable" engagement with drive assembly 60. In at least one form, drive assembly 60 includes a drive carriage 62 that is supported for axial travel between drive gear 60 and drive gear 60. drive 82 and gears 44 and 46 on the second rotary drive shaft 42. For example, drive carriage 62 can pivot in a sliding manner on a support shaft 63 which is mounted within housing 12 on a shaft mount 61 so that the line of action of the transmission carriage is perpendicular to the gear trains of the rotary drive systems. Shaft assembly 61 is configured to be rigidly supported within slots or other features within cable module 10. Drive carriage 62 includes a carriage gear 64 that is pivotally supported on support shaft 63 and is configured for the selectively engaged engagement with gears 44 and 46 while in driving engagement with driving gear 82. In the arrangement shown in Figures 1 to 5, the drive carriage 6 is operatively attached to a shifter or "means for shifting" 70 which is configured to axially displace drive carriage 62 between a "first drive position" and a "second drive position". In one form, for example, the means for displacement 70 include a shift solenoid 71 which is supported within the compartment 12 of the cable 14. The shift solenoid 71 may comprise a bistable solenoid, or, for example, may comprise a solenoid actuated by dual position spring. The illustrated arrangement includes a spring 72 that urges the drive carriage 62 in the distal "DD" direction into the first drive position, the carriage gear 64 being in engaged engagement with the intermediate drive gear 46 while is in engaged engagement with drive gear 82. When in this first drive position, activation of motor 80 will result in rotation of gears 82, 46 and 24 which will ultimately result in rotation of the first drive shaft 22.

[00102] The displacer solenoid 71 can be actuated by a firing trigger 90 that is pivotally supported on the compartment 12 of the cable 14, as shown in Figures 1 to 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the firing trigger 90 is supported in pivotally about an axis of the trigger 92 mounted on the handle 14. The trigger 90 is normally forced into an unactuated position by a trigger spring 94, as shown in Figure 3. The trigger 90 is mounted for operable actuation of a trigger switch 96 which is operatively supported on a circuit board assembly 100 housed in compartment 12 of the cable module 10. In the illustrated arrangement, actuation of the trigger trigger 90 results in actuation of solenoid 71. Actuation of firing trigger 90 results in shifter solenoid 71 pulling drive carriage 62 in the proximal "DP" direction to thereby move carriage gear 64 into engaged engagement with the second. of drive gear 44. Drive of motor 80, when carriage gear 64 is in meshed engagement with drive gear 82 and second drive gear 44, will result in rotation of second drive shaft 42 about the second shaft "SDA" drive shaft geometry. Displaceable transmission assembly 60 may also include an indicator system 74 that includes a pair of switches 75 and 76 that are operatively coupled to control board 100, as well as a transmission indicator light 77. Switches 75, 76 serve to detect the position of the transmission carriage 62, which results in the control system activating the indicator light 77 depending on the position of the transmission carriage 62. For example, the indicator light 77 may be energized when the transmission carriage 62 is in first gear. actuation position. This provides the clinician with an indication that actuation of motor 80 will result in actuation of the first drive system 20.

[00103] Motor 80 can be a brushed DC drive motor having a maximum speed of approximately 25,000 rpm, for example. In other arrangements, the motor may include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor, including autoclavable motors. The motor 80 may be powered by a power supply 84 which, in one form, may comprise a power supply unit 86 which is removablely stored in the pistol grip portion 19 of the handle 14. To access the power supply unit 86, the clinician removes a removable cover 17 that is attached to the bottom of the pistol grip portion 19. The power supply unit 86 can operatively support a plurality of battery cells (not shown) within it. Each of the battery cells may comprise, for example, a Lithium Ion ("LI") battery or other suitable type of battery. The power unit 86 is configured for removable operational attachment to the control circuit board assembly 100 of the cable module 10, which is also operatively coupled to the motor 80 and mounted within the cable 14. The power unit 86 may comprise a number of battery cells connected in series that can serve as the power source for the surgical instrument. Furthermore, power source 84 may be replaceable and/or rechargeable and, in at least one case, may include CR123 batteries, for example.

[00104] The motor 80 can be driven by a "rocker trigger" 110 that is pivotally mounted to the pistol grip portion 19 of the handle 14. The rocker trigger 110 is configured to drive a first motor switch 112, which is operatively coupled to the control board 100. The first motor switch 112 may comprise a pressure switch which is actuated by pivoting the rocker trigger 110 into contact with it. Activation of the first motor switch 112 will result in activation of the motor 80 so that the drive gear 82 rotates in a first rotational direction. A second motor switch 114 is also attached to circuit board 100 and mounted for selective contact by oscillator trigger 110. Activation of the second motor switch 114 will result in motor 80 being driven so that drive gear 82 is rotated in one direction. second direction. For example, in use, a voltage polarity supplied by the power supply 84 can operate the electric motor 80 clockwise, the voltage polarity applied to the electric motor by the battery can be reversed in order to operate the electric motor 80 clockwise. anticlockwise. Cable 14 may also include a sensor which is configured to detect the directions in which the drive systems are being moved.

[00105] The compartment 12 may also comprise a surgical instrument contact plate 30 mounted therein. Correspondingly, the various DSMs (e.g., DSMs 1, 2, 3) may include a corresponding DSM contact card (see Figures 34 to 60 of order '590). The DSM contact plate may be positioned on the DSM so that when the DSM is operatively coupled to cable module 10, the end actuator contact plate is electrically coupled to a cable module contact plate 30 mounted on the DSM. cable module 10. In this way, data and/or electrical power can be transferred between the cable module 10 and the DSM via the corresponding contact plates.

[00106] Figure 6 illustrates a form of the mechanical coupling system 50 that can be used to facilitate the simultaneous removable and operable coupling of the two drive systems 20, 40 on the cable module 10 to the corresponding "driven" axes on the DSMs. Coupling system 50 may comprise male couplers that attach to drive shafts in cable module 10 and corresponding female socket couplers that attach to drive shafts in the surgical DSM. Each of the male couplers 51 is configured to be actuatedly received within corresponding female socket couplers 57 which may also be attached to driven shafts within the DSM.

[00107] Arrangements for driving the drive systems 20, 40 are disclosed in the '590 application, including that in which the cable module 10 can include multiple motors.

[00108] Figure 7 is a block diagram of a modular motor-driven surgical instrument 2100 comprising a cable module 2102 and a DSM 2104; The cable and DSMs 2102, 2104 comprise respective electrical subsystems 2106, 2108 electrically coupled by a communications and power interface 2110. The electrical subsystem components 2106 of the cable portion 2102 are supported by the previously described control board 100, and can be connected to it. The communications and power interface 2110 is configured so that electrical signals and/or power can be easily exchanged between the cable portion 2102 and the driveshaft portion 2104.

[00109] In the illustrated example, the electrical subsystem 2106 of the cable module 2102 is electrically coupled to the various electrical elements 2112 and to a screen 2114. In one example, the screen 2114 is an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen, although screen 2114 should not be limited to this context and other screen technologies can be used. The electrical subsystem 2108 of the DSM 2104 is electrically coupled to various electrical elements 2116 of the DSM 2104.

[00110] In one aspect, the electrical subsystem 2106 of the cable module 2102 comprises a solenoid driver 2118, an accelerometer system 2120, a motor controller/driver 2122, a cable processor 2124, a voltage regulator 2126, and is configured to receive inputs from a plurality of sensor switches 2128 that may be located in the DSM and/or in the cable. The 2124 cable processor can be a general purpose microcontroller suitable for medical and surgical instrument applications. In one example, cable processor 2124 may be a TM4C123BH6ZRB microcontroller, available from Texas Instruments, comprising an 80 MHz ARM® Cortex™-M4 32-bit processor and on-chip memory, such as 256 KB Flash, 32 KB, SRAM, Internal ROM for C-series software and 2KB EEPROM. Electrical subsystem 2106 may also comprise one or more separate external memory circuits/chips (not shown) connected to cable processor 2124 via a data bus. As used herein, a "processor" or "processor circuit" such as the 2124 cable processor can be implemented as a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or an application-specific integrated circuit ( ASIC), which executes program code, such as firmware and/or software, stored in associated memory to perform the various functions programmed by the program code.

[00111] In one aspect, the electrical subsystem 2106 of the cable module 2102 receives signals from the various electrical components 2112, including a solenoid 2132, a clamp position switch 2134, a firing position switch 2136, a motor 2138 , a set of batteries 2140, an OLED interface board 2142 (which drives the screen 2114) and various switches, such as an opening switch 2144 (which indicates whether the closing trigger is open), a closing switch 2146 (which indicates if the closing trigger is closed) and a trip switch 2148 (which indicates if the trip switch is activated or not). Motor 2138 may represent motor 80 in Figures 2 to 5.

[00112] In one aspect, the electrical subsystem 2108 of the DSM 2104 comprises an axis processor 2130. The electrical subsystem 2108 of the DSM is configured to receive signals from various switches and sensors 2116 located in the DSM that are indicative of the state of the gripper grips and the cutting element in the DSM. In particular, the DSM electrical subsystem 2108 can receive signals from a clamp open state switch 2150 (which indicates whether the end actuator clamp is open), a clamp closed state switch 2152 (which indicates whether the end actuator clamp is closed), a trigger start state switch 2154 (which indicates whether the end actuator has started firing), and a trigger end state switch 2156 (which indicates the end actuator has ended firing), so that the various keys indicate the states of the gripper and the cutting element.

[00113] The 2120 accelerometer system may include a MEMS motion sensor that detects a movement of 3 geometric axes of the cable module 10, such as an accelerometer LIS331DLM, available from STMicroelectronics. The 2122 motor controller/driver may comprise a three-phase brushless DC (BLDC) controller and a MOSFET driver, such as the A3930 motor controller/driver obtained from Allegro, for example. In one aspect, the modular motor-driven surgical instrument 2100 is equipped with a brushless DC electric motor 2138 (BLDC motor, BL motor), also known as an electronically commutated motor (ECM, EC motor). One such engine is the BLDC Engine B0610H4314 available from Portescap. The 2128 sensor switches may include one or more Hall effect sensors of the type with unipolar integrated circuits. The voltage regulator 2126 regulates the power supplied to the various electrical components of the cable module 2102 and the DSM 2104 from a power source (eg, a battery 2140). Battery 2140, which may represent battery pack 86 in Figures 1 to 5, may be, for example, a lithium-ion polymer (LiPo) battery, lithium-ion polymer and/or lithium-polymer batteries. , for example (abbreviations Li-poly, Li-Pol, LiPo, LIP, PLi or LiP), which are rechargeable batteries (secondary cell). The LIPO 2140 battery may comprise several (eg four or six) identical secondary cells in parallel (an "array"). The OLED interface 2142 is an interface to the OLED screen 2114 comprising organic light emitting diodes.

[00114] In one aspect, the DSM 2130 processor of the electrical subsystem 2108 of the DSM 2104 may be implemented as a 16-bit ultra-low power mixed-signal MCU such as the ultra-low power MCU MSP430FR5738 obtained from Texas Instruments. It may comprise, among other things, internal non-volatile RAM, a CPU, an A/D converter, a 16-channel comparator and three enhanced serial channels using I2C, SPI or UART protocols. Subsystem 2108 may also comprise one or more separate external memory circuits/chips connected to DSM processor 2130 via a data bus.

[00115] More details about the exemplary electrical subsystem for the cable and the DSMs 2102, 2104 can be found in order '590. In operation, the electrical subsystem 2106 of the cable module 2102 receives signals from the opening switch 2144, the closing switch 2146 and the trip switch 2148 supported in a compartment of the cable module portion 2102 (for example, compartment 12) . When a signal is received from closing switch 2146, cable processor 2124 operates motor 2138 to initiate clamp arm closing. When the gripper is closed, the gripper closed state switch 2152 on the end actuator sends a signal to the shaft processor 2130 which communicates the status of the grip arm to the cable processor 2124 via the communications and power interface 2110 .

[00116] When the target tissue is trapped, the trigger switch 2148 can be triggered to generate a signal that is received by the cable processor 2124. In response, the cable processor 2124 triggers the transmission carriage to its second position drive such that driving the 2138 motor will result in rotation of a second drive shaft. When the cutting member is positioned, the trigger start state switch 2154 located on the end actuator sends a signal indicative of the position of the cutting member to the DSM processor 2130 which communicates the position back to the cable processor 2124 via the 2110 communications and power interface.

[00117] Activation of the first switch 2148 once again sends a signal to the cable processor 2138 which, in response, activates the second drive system and the trigger system in the DSM to drive the fabric cutting member and the assembly triangular body slider distally through the surgical staple cartridge. After the tissue cutting member and triangular body slider assembly are actuated to their most distal positions on the surgical staple cartridge, the firing end switch 2156 sends a signal to the DSM processor 2130 which communicates the position of back to cable processor 2124 through interface 2110. Now, trigger switch 2148 can be activated to send a signal to cable processor 2124, which runs motor 2138 in reverse rotation to return the trigger system to its starting position.

[00118] Activation of the opening switch 2144 once again sends a signal to the cable processor 2124 which operates the motor 2138 to open the gripper. Once open, the clamp open state switch 2150 located on the end actuator sends a signal to the shaft processor 2130 which communicates the position of the clamp to the cable processor 2124. trigger 2136 provide signals to cable processor 2124 that indicate the respective positions of the clamping arm and the cutting member.

[00119] Figure 8 is a diagram of a process flow that can be executed by the cable processor 2124 in several cases by executing software and/or firmware instructions for the cable processor 2124 stored in the processor's internal memory and and/or on an external memory chip/circuit connected to cable processor 2124. In step 202, cable processor 2124 monitors the input signals provided by instrument sensors 2100 for so-called "lifetime events". Lifetime events are events or actions that involve the cable module 2102 and/or the DSM 2104, whereby the cable module 2102 must be retired (i.e., no longer used) when the threshold number of life events useful is achieved. Lifetime events can be end actuator tightening, end actuator tripping, combinations of these events, and/or other events or actions involving the cable module 2102 and/or DSM 2104 that can and are detected by instrument 2100. For example, open switch 2144, close switch 2146, and trip switch 2148 of cable module 2102 may be coupled to cable processor 2124. In addition to or instead of the foregoing, the open state switch of the clamp 2150, the clamp closed state switch 2152, the trigger start state switch 2154 and the trigger end switch 2156 in the DSM 2104 may be coupled to the cable processor 2124 (via interface 2110). A lifetime event may occur and may be counted when some or all of these respective switches are activated and/or activated in a particular sequence detected by the cable processor 2124, depending on the application design of the cable module 2102 and instrument 2100. For example, in various embodiments, each detected clamp closure and each detected trigger can count as a lifetime event. In other words, a detected clamp closure may comprise a first life event and a detected trip may comprise a different second life event. In other implementations, a sequence of a clamp closure followed by a trigger may count as a lifetime event. Furthermore, as described above, cable processor 2124 can use inputs from cable sensors 2144, 2146, 2148 and/or DSM sensors 2150, 2152, 2154, 2156, for example, to detect lifetime events.

[00120] The 2124 cable processor keeps a count of lifetime events. When a lifetime event is detected, cable processor 2124 increments the current value of the lifetime event counter in its internal memory or in its external memory at step 204. The counter may be a countdown counter, where the count is increased by one unit (increment of +1) when a lifetime event occurs, until a preset threshold is reached; or the counter can be a countdown counter, where the count is decremented by one unit (-1 increment) when a lifetime event occurs until a specific final count (e.g., zero) is reached after starting in the value that is different from the final count by the pre-established threshold. The predetermined lifetime event count threshold can be set to any value desired by the cable module manufacturer 2102 in view of the particular sensor events that count as lifetime events.

[00121] If the lifetime event counter reaches the preset lifetime event threshold in step 206, the cable processor 2124 may initiate one or more end-of-life actions in step 208, such as causing the screen to 2114 from the 2102 cable module, or some other display (e.g., a user-visible mechanical counter), e.g., in communication with the 2124 cable processor, indicates that the 2102 cable module is worn out (at end of life) and must be removed. Any visual, tactile and/or audible indication may be used. For example, screen 2114 may include an icon and/or text indicating that the cable module end of life has been reached. Screen 2114 may also indicate the count of lifetime events on a continuous basis, such as a numeric display or a volume indicator (full, near empty, etc.) for example, so that the user can monitor the possibility of the cable module is approaching the end of its useful life. In addition to or in place of a constant display of the life event count, the 2114 screen may have an icon and/or may use text to show that the cable module is approaching the end of its life (e.g., " N uses remaining"). Cable processor 2124 may also initiate conditions that prevent further use of cable module 2102 when the end-of-life count is reached, as described further below. If the end of life count has not been reached, the 2124 cable processor continues to monitor switches and sensors for end of life count events until the end of life threshold is reached.

[00122] Various sensor implementations can be used to detect certain lifetime events. For example, the DSM that is used (e.g. DSM 1, 2 or 3) may include two drive shafts: one to drive the closing system and one to drive the trip system (each driven by one of the systems). drive 20, 40 respectively), for example. Each drive shaft can drive one carriage forward during a pinch or trip event, respectively. In this way, the closing and/or tripping systems may include switches that are activated when the closing or tripping carriage, as the case may be, comes into contact with them. The switch (or switches) may be coupled to the cable processor 2124, and the cable processor 2124 may record a lifetime event count when it receives a signal from the switch (or switches) that it has been actuated. The switches can be automatically reactivatable pushbutton switches that are reactivated each time they are placed in contact with - and actuated - by the carriage driven by the drive shaft.

[00123] In addition to the above, the '590 application describes that DSMs 1 to 3 may include a pair of drive screws to drive the closing and tripping systems of several different types of DSMs. Examples of such drive screw pairs are shown in the '590 order, Figures 34 through 37 thereof with respect to an open linear stapler, Figures 38 through 41 thereof with respect to a curved cut stapler, and Figures 42 through 45 of the same in relation to a circular surgical stapler. Other types of DSM that are adapted for the cable module can also be used, like endocutters and/or right angle staplers, for example. Since different DSMs can be used with the cable module, the cable module (for example, the 2124 cable processor) can use more sophisticated algorithms to track the usage and remaining life of the cable module that depend on the number of times the various types of DSMs are used and triggered. For example, in one instance, the cable processor 2124 may calculate a progressively cumulative life event score that differently weights usage by different DSMs (depending on the stress they apply to the cable module, for example) and compare the score with a predetermined threshold value. When the cable module score reaches the threshold value, the cable module is removed (eg, one or more end-of-life actions are taken). For example, the 2124 cable processor can calculate the life event score based on the following relationship: Life Event ScoreFLI! where i = 1,... N represents the different types of DMS that can be used with the cable module (eg endocutter, straight open, circular, curved, right angle stapler, etc.), WI is a weighting factor for DSM type i across procedures j = 1 involving DSM type i. DSM types that apply less overall stress to the cable module may have a lower weight W than DSM types that apply more overall stress to the cable module. Thus, in many arrangements, a cable module that is used only for high-effort procedures expires before a cable module that is used only for lower-effort procedures, all other things being equal.

[00124] Figure 9 illustrates an example process flow that cable processor 2124 can execute to calculate a life event score and/or compare the life event score to a score threshold. In such cases, cable processor 2124 may run firmware and/or software stored in internal and/or external memory, for example. Assuming the cable module score threshold has not yet been reached, the process begins at block 250 where cable processor 2124 receives inputs for the next procedure. At least one of these entries may include an identification of the type of DSM that is attached to the cable module, which the cable processor may receive from the DSM processor 2130 when the DSM is connected to the cable module and/or when the cable processor cable 2124 and DSM processor 2130 establish a data connection with each other. In the process of recognizing and/or authenticating the DSM, the DSM processor 2130 sends an identifier to the cable processor 2124 that identifies the type of DSM (e.g., endocutter, circular, etc.) that is attached to the cable module. Next, in step 252, cable processor 2124 tracks the number of times the cable module is fired during the surgical procedure. The cable processor 2124 can keep track of the number of times the cable has been fired by tracking the number of times the fire trigger has been activated and/or tracking feedback from the DSM such as indications that the end actuator cartridge has been fired. replaced, for example.

[00125] After the procedure and/or at any other suitable time, now with reference to step 254, the cable processor 2124 may update the cable processor lifetime event score by adding the score of the procedure just ended to that of the previous procedure. The score for the procedure just finished can be based on multiplying the weight for the type of DSM used in the Wi procedure and the number of shots in the S procedure. The cable processor 2124 can determine the weight for the DSM type Wi by looking for it. weights in a look-up table (stored in internal and/or external memory) based on the type of identifier received from the DSM in step 250. In step 256, the cable processor compares the lifetime event score for the module module with the preset scoring threshold to determine if the cable module is at end of life. If the threshold has been reached, the process proceeds to step 258, where one or more cable module end-of-life actions are performed, such as one or more of the end-of-life actions described here . On the other hand, if the threshold has not yet been reached, the process can proceed to step 260, so that the cable module can be used in at least one more procedure, after which the procedure of Figure 9 is repeated.

[00126] The loading conditions experienced by the instrument can be used to follow use of both the cable module and the DSM to assess whether one or both of the cable module and the DSM should be removed. Such a case might involve comparing the force actually exerted by the instrument to actuate the end actuator's firing member with the force the instrument would experience, for example. Similarly, the force actually exerted to retract the firing member can be compared to the force the instrument would have to experience to judge whether the cable module and/or the DSM should be removed. The cable module can be rated on a threshold number of trips based on the force levels the cable module should experience. Similarly, the DSM can be rated on a threshold number of triggers based on the levels of force the DSM should experience. The cable module threshold number and the DSM threshold number can be the same or different. If the actual forces experienced by the cable module and/or the DSM significantly exceed the expected force levels, the cable processor and/or the DSM processor, as applicable, may determine that the cable module and/or or DSM must be removed before reaching the expected number of shots.

[00127] In some cases, in addition to the above, the force exerted by a cable module and/or DSM may be constant throughout a firing stroke of the firing member; however, it is quite common for the force exerted by the cable module and/or the DSM to change over the course of the fire. In any case, the force exerted by the lever module and/or the force the cable module is expected to exert may be a function of the position of the triggering member. Similarly, the force exerted by the DSM and/or the force the DSM is expected to exert may be a function of the position of the firing member. A specific type of DSM may have an expected trigger force that is correlated to the trigger stroke of the DSM along its entire length, i.e., the distance between the trigger member's initial position and its end-of-stroke position. . The DSM may also have an expected retraction force that is correlated to the retraction stroke of the DSM along the entire length of the DSM, ie, the distance between the triggering member's end-of-travel position and its starting position. Figure 10 shows an example of expected forces for a DSM type. The upper curve 270 shows the expected firing forces as the firing member traverses the end actuator from its home position to its full stroke position, and the lower curve 272 shows the expected retraction forces as the member travels. trigger retracts back to its starting position. In this particular example, the expected release forces are greater than the expected retraction forces.

[00128] For each shot, in addition to the above, the cable module and/or DSM processors can track the force exerted per unit increment of distance (for example, 1 millimeter) of the stroke length. In addition, cable module and/or DSM processors can track the force exerted by each stroke length distance increment and then compare the actual forces against the expected forces to verify whether or not the actual forces exerted exceed the expected forces. One way to measure the force exerted by the instrument during firing and retraction is to measure the torque output of the motor (or motors) during the firing and retracting strokes. In at least one case, the torque output of a motor can be determined based on the current drawn by the motor and the motor speed. In at least one of these cases, the voltage applied to the motor is constant. Current can be measured with a current sensor; motor speed can be measured by an encoder, for example. Figure 10A shows exemplary force measurements as deviations from expected firing stroke forces and expected retraction stroke forces. In this diagram, for the sake of simplicity in illustration, all measured forces exceeded the expected force, and only the difference between the measured force and the expected force is shown by line segments 274 for the firing course and dotted line segments 276 for the retraction stroke. The reader should note that one or more measured forces may be less than their respective expected force.

[00129] Figure 10B is a diagram of an exemplary process flow executed by the cable module processor and/or the DSM processor upon execution of firmware and/or software stored in the memory of the cable module and/or the DSM , as the case may be. Now referring to step 280, the processor may aggregate, i.e., accumulate, the difference between the measured force and the expected force at each unit length increment (referred to as ΔL below) over the trigger stroke and/or the stroke. instrument retraction. For example, the cumulative force difference for a firing stroke and a subsequent retracting stroke can be calculated based on the following relationship: Cumulative Force Difference = ∑^0(.Fπi,fAL " FerfÁL) 4- ∑IL= .EOS^,T,&L ~ E;, where EOS represents the end-of-stroke location; F_(m,f, ΔL) and F_(e,f,ΔL) represent the measured and expected triggering forces, respectively, at position ΔL; and F_(m,r, ΔL) and F_(e,r,ΔL) represent the measured and expected retraction forces respectively at position ΔL. In step 282, the processor may then accumulate the force differences summing the differences in cumulative forces per shot for each of the shots that the cable module and/or the DSM have experienced.

[00130] Regarding a specific modality, in addition to the above, the processor can calculate the differences in accumulated forces in real time. In at least one case, the processor can calculate force differences after each firing and retracting cycle. In certain cases, the processor may calculate force differences after each surgical procedure, which may include more than one firing and retraction cycle. For example, if in a procedure there were seven (7) triggers, then the processor adds the result of step 280 for each of the seven triggers. Then, at step 284, the cable may update the total accumulated force differences for the cable module and/or for the DSM, as the case may be, adding the accumulated force differences for the procedure just ended to the total prior to the newly terminated procedure (or zero in the case of the first procedure in the module). At step 286, the processor may then compare the updated cumulative force difference total against a threshold. If the threshold has been reached or otherwise satisfied, the process proceeds to step 288, where end-of-life action is taken for the cable module or DSM, as the case may be. On the other hand, if, at step 286, the processor determines that the threshold has not yet been reached, the cable module and/or the DSM, as the case may be, may be used once again.

[00131] Even if the accumulated force difference threshold has not yet been reached, the cable module and/or the DSM, as the case may be, may have reached the end of its useful life according to a different threshold. For example, the process of Figure 10B may proceed to step 289 after step 286, where the processor compares the total number of procedures involving the cable module and/or the DSM, as the case may be, against a count threshold of procedure. In at least one case, a cable module can have a procedure count threshold of 20 procedures and a DSM can have a procedure count threshold of 10 procedures. Other examples are possible. In at least one other example, a cable module and a DSM can have the same procedure count threshold. If the procedure count threshold has been reached, the end-of-life action for the cable module and/or the DSM, as applicable, is initiated at step 288. On the other hand, if the procedure count threshold procedure has not yet been reached, the process proceeds to step 290, where the cable module and/or the DSM is prepared for another procedure. Any of the techniques described here for tracking procedure counts can be used to detect the end of a procedure.

[00132] In various embodiments, the cable processor can perform the calculations for both the cable module and the DSM and then communicate the results for the DSM to the DSM processor, so that the DSM processor can initiate the end-of-life actions, if necessary. Similarly, the DSM processor can perform the calculations for both the cable module and the DSM and then communicate the results for the cable module to the cable processor so that the cable processor can initiate actions. end of life, if necessary. In another arrangement, all forces measured for a procedure may be downloaded after a procedure to a remote processor, such as a processor at an inspection station or other processor-based system or remote computer that is connected to the module. cable after a procedure, for post-procedure processing, for example. Such an inspection station is disclosed and described in conjunction with Figures 12A and 12B, for example.

[00133] Figure 10C illustrates, together with Figures 10D and 10E, another example process flow that the cable processor can use to monitor whether the cable module, for example, has reached its end of life. The process illustrated in Figure 10C determines whether the cable module has reached its end of life based on the energy used by the cable module over its lifetime, an example graph of which is shown in Figure 10D. Figure 10D represents the aggregate or accumulated energy expended by the cable module as a function of uses, or trips, of the cable module. In addition to or in place of the above, the process illustrated in Figure 10C can determine whether the cable module has reached its end of life based on the power used during each cable module shot, an example graph of which is shown in Figure 10E . Figure 10E represents the consumed power for each shot of the cable module. In at least one particular embodiment, the processor, during the implementation of the exemplifying process of Figure 10C, monitors whether the energy expended by the cable module, in the aggregate, exceeds various thresholds (see Figure 10D) and, concomitantly, whether the cable module had a certain number of triggers above one threshold power level (see Figure 10E). When both of these conditions are satisfied, in at least one instance, the cable processor may conclude that the cable module is at the end of its useful life. In certain cases, the cable processor may use any number of multi-factor tests, with thresholds for each test, to determine if a cable module is at end of life. In at least one case, the cable processor may determine that the cable has reached the end of its useful life if any test threshold is met or exceeded.

[00134] After a procedure, the cable processor can perform the process of Figure 10C by running firmware and/or software stored in internal and/or external memory to determine if the cable module is at the end of its useful life. At step 290, the cable processor may compare the accumulated energy of the cable module over its lifetime with a first threshold energy level, i.e., Energy Level 1 in Figure 10D. Energy Level 1 might be 40 kJ, for example. The cable module may include a microwattmeter or power meter connected to the motor (or motors) of the cable module to measure and record the electrical parameters of the motor (or motors) so that the energy and power outputs of the motor ( or engines) can be determined. If the first threshold energy level has been reached or exceeded, i.e., Energy Level 1, the cable processor may determine, in step 291, that the cable module is at the end of its useful life and initiate an action end-of-life actions, such as one or more end-of-life actions described here, for example.

[00135] If the cable processor determines that the first threshold energy level, that is, Energy Level 1, has not been reached in step 290, the process proceeds to step 292, where the cable module determines whether a second (eg, lower) energy threshold has been reached, i.e., Energy Level 2 in Figure 10D. Energy Level 2 might be 30 kJ, for example. If the second threshold energy level has been met or exceeded (without reaching or exceeding the first threshold energy level), the process proceeds to step 293, where the cable processor determines whether the cable module has been subjected to a certain number of shots over its lifetime that exceed a first threshold power level, for example, two shots greater than 55 Watts (see Figure 10E). If the second threshold power level has been met or exceeded and the threshold power level has been met or exceeded the predetermined number of times, the cable processor may determine that the cable module is at the end of its useful life. If, however, the threshold power level has not been reached or exceeded the predetermined number of times, the cable processor may determine that the cable module has not yet reached the end of its useful life, although the second power level of threshold has been reached or exceeded. The dual factors of steps 292 and 293 can be another test of the life of the cable module, and if the cable module fails both tests (that is, either the thresholds or the conditions are met), it can be determined that the cable module is at the end of its useful life.

[00136] The cable processor can run any number of dual factor tests. Figure 10C shows an additional two-factor test. If the dual factors of steps 292 and 293 are not satisfied, the process may proceed to step 294, where the cable module determines whether a third (e.g., even lower) energy threshold, i.e., the Power Level Energy 3, has been reached. Energy Level 3 might be 25 kJ, for example. If the third threshold energy level has been met or exceeded (without reaching or exceeding the third threshold energy level), the process proceeds to step 295, where the cable processor determines whether the cable module has had a certain number of shots over its lifetime (preferably greater than the number of shots checked in step 293) that exceed a second threshold power level (which could be equal to or different from the threshold power level in step 293 ), for example, four shots greater than 55 Watts. The dual factors of steps 294 and 295 can be another test of the life of the cable module, and if the cable module fails both tests (i.e., thresholds or conditions are met), it can be determined that the cable module is at the end of its life. Otherwise, the processor may determine that the cable module is not at end of life and may be used in a subsequent procedure.

[00137] It should be evident that the steps in Figure 10C can be performed in multiple orders, achieving the same result. For example, steps 294 and 295 can be performed before step 290, and so on.

[00138] According to current best practices, a cable module must be sterilized before being used to perform the surgical procedure. In many cases, the cable module is placed on a sterilization tray which is then placed in a sterilization chamber. In addition to or in place of the described ways to track the end of life of the cable module, the number of times the cable module is placed in a sterilization tray for sterilization can be used to track the end of life for the cable module. In other words, the number of times a cable module is sterilized can serve as a proxy for the number of times the cable module has been used. In at least one exemplary embodiment, each cable module has its own sterilization tray that maintains the sterilization count for that particular cable module. In such an arrangement, the sterilization tray may include a counter that is incremented each time the associated cable module is placed in the tray. The counter can have a visual readout screen that can show the number of times the cable module has been sterilized if a countdown counter is used, or the number of sterilizations remaining, or allowed, when a countdown counter is used. used. Thus, the user can know when the sterilization limit is reached and, as a result, the user can remove the cable module and/or take other appropriate end-of-life measures. So that placing the cable module in a sterilization tray is used as a substitute for the number of times the cable module is sterilized and thus a substitute for the number of times the cable module has been used , the cable module must be sterilized in one, and only one, sterilization tray. In this way, the counter does not count tray placements of other cable modules. Consequently, the cable module and sterilization tray may be supplied together, as a kit, for example, and may include identifiers (eg numbers or icons) that show that they are to be used together. The cable module and DSM can be sterilized separately or together, for example.

[00139] Figure 11A represents an exemplary sterilization tray 300 and a cable module 302 that is positionable in the sterilization tray 300. The sterilization tray 300 defines an opening, or recess, 304 whose shape corresponds to the shape of the cable module 302 to be placed in it. Recess 304 is configured to closely receive cable module 302 so that there is little, if any, relative movement possible therebetween. The sterilization tray 300 includes a stroke counter 306 that has a lever arm 308 that extends into the aperture. Stroke counter 306 further includes a visual counter readout display 310. When the user places cable module 302 into opening 304, the end of lever arm 308 is pressed, toggled or actuated, which is recorded as a count. , thereby incrementing stroke counter 306 by one (+1) for a count-up counter (or -1 for a count-down counter), which is displayed on readout display 310. To reduce false switching or trips of the lever arm 306, in various embodiments, the end of the lever arm 308 may include a protrusion 312 configured to fit into a corresponding opening 314 defined in the cable module 302. Figure 11B shows the cable module 302 after it be placed in the sterilization tray 300. The end of the lever arm 308 is not visible in Figure 11B because it is under the cable module 302. The counter reading display 310 remains visible to the user when the cable module 302 is positioned in opening 304.

[00140] Figures 11C and 11D represent a variation in which a cable module 302 can be placed in a sterilization tray 300 with a DSM 312. The cable module 302 is similar to the cable module 10 in many respects and the DSM 312 represents an example DSM. In such an arrangement, tray 300 includes a cable module opening 318 for receiving cable module 302, a cable module lever counter 314, and a cable module counter reading display 316. Tray 300 also includes a DSM 324 opening to receive the DSM 312, a DSM 320 lever counter and a DSM 322 counter reading display. specific sterilization 300, so that their respective sterilizations can be accurately followed. The cable module counter 312 shows the number of times the cable module 302 has been sterilized in the sterilization tray 300 and/or the number of sterilizations remaining. The DSM counter 324 shows the number of times the DSM 312 has been sterilized in the sterilization tray 300 and/or the number of sterilizations remaining. Cable module 302 can be sterilized without DSM 312 and vice versa, in which case their respective counts may not match.

[00141] Figures 11E to 11I illustrate other arrangements for using a sterilization tray 300 to accompany uses of a cable module. In Figure 11E, the sterilization tray 300 includes a protrusion 340 that extends upwardly from the bottom of the opening 304 in the sterilization tray. The protrusion 340 is positioned to extend into a corresponding opening 342 defined in the cable module 302 when the cable module 302 is seated in the opening 304. As shown in Figure 11F, the cable module 302 may comprise a toggle switch two position switch 344 having a portion that extends into the opening 342 defined by the handle 302 when the switch 344 is in a first position. When the cable module 302 is placed in the sterilization tray 300, the opening 342 is aligned with the protrusion 340 such that the protrusion 340 pushes the switch 344 into a second position, as shown in Figure 11G. Switch 344 may be in communication with the cable processor and the cable processor may update an internal sterilization count (stored in a processor memory internal and/or external to the cable module) when switch 344 is moved from the first position (Figure 11F) to the second position (Figure 11G). In such an embodiment, cable module 302 may comprise a power supply, as described herein, for powering the cable processor and for updating the sterilization count during sterilization. Such a power source may comprise a secondary battery that is not removed from the cable module even if a primary battery is removed from cable module 302. The cable processor may compare the sterilization count against a predetermined threshold (e.g., 20 sterilizations ) and, when the sterilization count reaches the predetermined threshold, the cable processor can implement one or more of the various end-of-life actions described here, for example. Switch 344 can remain in the "on" or "enabled" state until it is subsequently reset, such as after the sterilization process (see Figure 36). Switch 344 may be spring biased, for example, to return to its open position after cable module 302 is removed from tray 300 and protrusion 340 is removed from opening 342. The cable module processor may also adjust an internal flag to indicate that the cable module 302 has been placed in the sterilization tray 300, and this flag can later be reset after the sterilization process (see Figure 37). Figures 11H and 11I illustrate similar embodiments with a contact switch 348. When the cable module 302 is placed in the sterilization tray 300, the opening 342 is aligned with the protrusion 340, so that the protrusion 340 closes the contact switch 348, as shown in Figure 11G, when the cable module 302 is seated in the opening 304. The contact switch 348 is in communication with the cable processor to update the cable module sterilization count. Contact switch 348 can be forced back into its open position (Figure 11H) by a spring, for example when cable 302 is removed from tray 300 and pressure is applied to contact switch 348 by inserted protrusion 340 is removed.

[00142] In addition to or instead of the ways described above to track the end of life of a cable module, the end of life of a cable module can be tracked through the use of an inspection station to which the module cable can be connected. The inspection station can be used at any suitable time to assess whether the cable module can be used to perform a surgical procedure and/or a subsequent step in a surgical procedure. For example, an inspection station can be used before, during and/or after the sterilization process of a cable module and/or during preparation of the cable module for reuse. The cable module can be connected with the inspection station after (i) post-operative cleaning of reusable components of the cable module after a procedure (which usually involves a manual cleaning of the component or instrument); (ii) decontamination (eg by automatic washer) of the component or instrument; and/or (iii) cleaning and/or drying at ambient temperature of the component or instrument, for example. Placing the cable module in the inspection station can be a proxy for the number of times the cable module has been used, sterilized and/or otherwise processed for reuse. A screen at the inspection station (or elsewhere) can indicate to a user when a threshold number of cable module placements at the inspection station has been reached or is about to be reached, at which point the user can take action appropriate regarding the cable module, how to remove it, for example. In addition, the inspection station can upload data to the cable processor that prevents further use of the cable module (for example, disable the cable module) when the cable module has reached the end of its useful life.

[00143] In addition to the above, Figures 12A and 12B illustrate an exemplary inspection station 400 and a cable module 402. The cable module 402 is similar to the cable module 10 in many respects. Figure 12A shows the cable module 402 before being placed in the inspection station 400 and Figure 12B shows the cable module 402 after being placed in position in the inspection station 400. Similar to other embodiments disclosed here, the cable module 402 comprises a battery cavity 403 defined therein and configured to receive a battery pack therein. See, for example, battery pack 86 in Figures 2 through 5. As also disclosed elsewhere herein, the battery pack is readily insertable and removable with respect to battery cavity 403. Figure 12A also shows that the The battery pack is removed from the cable module 402, thereby exposing the battery cavity 403 before the battery module 402 is placed in the inspection system 400. The inspection station 400 comprises an insertable, or data adapter The data/power adapter 404 extends therefrom and is sized and configured to fit within the battery cavity 403 of the cable module 402. The data/power adapter 404 is placed in communication with the processor of the power module 404. cable through power contacts configured to engage with battery pack power terminals and/or through one or more signal contacts positioned in battery cavity 403, as required. written in more detail below. Cable module 402 can be positioned in inspection station 400 by sliding opening 403 over data/power adapter 404.

[00144] Figure 12C is a block diagram illustrating certain components of the inspection station 400 and the cable module 402. The data/power adapter 404 includes power terminals 430 that supply voltage across them to a voltage regulator 432 from the cable module 402 in a similar or equal manner as the battery pack supplies voltage to the voltage regulator 432 when the battery pack is positioned in the opening 403. For example, if a battery pack is configured to supply 6 DC V to voltage regulator 432, insertable element 404 can be configured to supply 6V DC to voltage regulator 432, for example. Voltage regulator 432 supplies electrical power to control board 100 (see Figures 1-6) from cable module 402 to power control board components 100, including a cable processor 434 and associated internal and/or external memory. 436, for example. The inspection station 400 itself can be powered by an AC power supply via a power cord 437 using AC-DC converters. The inspection station 400 includes data ports 438 that contact data ports 440 of the cable module 402 when the cable module 402 is engaged with the inspection station 400 so that the cable processor 434 can be in communication with the inspection station processor 442. As the reader will appreciate, the inspection station 400 may further include an internal and/or external memory 444 associated with the inspection station processor 442.

[00145] Figure 12D is a diagram of a process flow that can be executed by the cable processor 434 and/or by the inspection station processor 442 during the execution of software and/or firmware in the cable memory 436 and/or in the inspection station memory 444 to track and respond to the number of times the cable module 402 is placed in the inspection station. In various arrangements, whenever the cable module 402 is installed in the inspection device 400 so that the insertable 404 makes data and power connections to the control board 100 of the cable module 402, the cable processor 434 can increment an inspection counter. The inspection counter can be a counter counting up from zero to a pre-set threshold number of inspections or a counter counting down from the pre-set number of inspections to zero. In at least one instance, cable module 402 includes an inspection station insertion switch 446 (Figure 12C) that is actuated when data/power adapter 404 is fully and properly inserted into opening 403. Such switch 446 may be in communication with the cable processor 434 through the control board 100 and, when the switch 446 is actuated in step 420 of Figure 12D, the cable processor 434 can increment (by +1 or -1, as the case may be, depending on the counter type) the inspection counter in step 422. In step 424, the cable processor 434 may compare the inspection count against the predetermined threshold. If the threshold has not yet been reached, cable processor 434 may then, in step 426, provide the inspection counter value to inspection station processor 442 while in data communication with inspection station 400 via of the insertable element.

[00146] With reference to Figure 12E, the inspection station 400 can include a visual screen 448 that displays visual information related to the inspection counter, such as the number of times the cable 402 has been placed in the inspection station 400 and/or the number (or approximate number) of times remaining that the cable module 402 must be placed in the inspection station 400 for inspection before the cable module 402 reaches the end of its useful life, for example. However, if the inspection count threshold has been reached, the process can proceed to step 428, where an end-of-life action (or actions) can be taken. One such lifetime action is where the screen 448 of the inspection station 400 can visually display to the user that the cable module 402 is no longer to be used. Another end-of-life action that may be employed in addition to or in place of the visual display is where the inspection station processor 442 sends an instruction string to the cable processor 434 that causes the cable processor 434 disable further use of cable module 402. For example, the instruction string may instruct cable processor 434 to never thereafter drive the motor of cable module 402 or some other disabling action. For example, the instruction string can instruct the cable processor to set a flag that, when set, prevents the cable processor 434 from starting the motor.

[00147] In various embodiments, the inspection station insertion switch 446 can be a pressure switch that is actuated when the data/power adapter 404 is completely inserted into the opening 403 and reset when the data/power adapter 404 is removed, or at least partially removed, from opening 403. In various aspects, there may be a timer associated with inspection station insertion switch 446 such that the inspection station counter is incremented (step 442 of Figure 12D) only if switch 446 is activated for at least a threshold time period (eg 30 seconds etc.). Such a timer can reduce the number of false positives, i.e., brief placements of the cable module 402 in the inspection station 400 that are unlikely to be associated with the inspection or post-procedure sterilization of the cable module 402.

[00148] In another variation, the inspection station 400 includes a pressure switch with a counter whose reading display is displayed to a user. The inspection station pressure switch is activated by placing the cable module 402 in the inspection station 400. For example, the inspection station pressure switch can be at the base of the insert 404 of the inspection station 400, so that when the cable module 402 is completely slid over the insert 404, the inspection station pressure switch is activated. Every time the inspection station pressure switch is activated, the counter can be updated (e.g., incremented by one) so that the readout display shows the number of times the cable module 402 has been inserted into the inspection system 400. This meter can be a mechanical meter and/or an electrical meter, for example. If the limit, or threshold, is displayed on the inspection station 400, displayed on the cable module 402, and/or otherwise published to the user, the user can know whether the limit has been reached or is being approached. In at least one case, the boundary can be printed on the inspection station 400 and/or on the cable module 402, for example.

[00149] The screen 448 of the inspection station 400 can also display other information obtained by the inspection station 400 and/or communicated to the inspection station 400 from the cable module 402 through the data connection between them. For example, the cable processor memory can store a device type identifier for the cable module (eg a serial number) and the device type identifier can be downloaded to the inspection station processor 442 for display on screen 448. In addition to or in place of the above, screen 448 may indicate a status of the cable module, such as how close the cable module is to the end of its useful life and/or if the cable module has been latched or not, for example, based on status data received from cable processor 434. As described herein, screen 448 may indicate the number of uses remaining (e.g., procedures) for the cable module and/or the number of procedures in which the cable module was used. As disclosed herein, the inspection station 400 can also be used to perform post-procedure testing of the cable module 402 to ensure that the cable module 402 can be used in a subsequent procedure. These tests may include moisture tests, seal integrity tests and/or simulated load tests, for example. The screen can indicate the results of these tests (for example, passed, failed, in progress).

[00150] In addition to or in place of the above, the screen 448 of the inspection station 400 may indicate the status of the inspection station itself, such as whether the inspection station is (i) downloading data from the cable module , (ii) uploading data and/or software updates to the cable module, (iii) processing data and/or (iv) running tests, for example. Screen 448 can indicate results from testing and data processing, such as whether the cable module is ready to be used in another procedure, whether the cable module needs service, whether the cable module warranty has expired because the cable module has reached its threshold number of uses, and/or other warnings. The screen 448 of the inspection station 400 may be an LED backlit LCD screen, for example, which is controlled by the inspection station processor 442. The inspection station 400 may also include control buttons 410, as shown in Figure 12E , where a user can enter data and/or configuration parameters which are stored and used by the inspection station processor 442. Screen 448 can also be a touch screen where users can enter data and/or configuration parameters , for example, via the touchscreen. The inspection station 400 may include an external data port 412, such as a USB, micro or mini-USB, for example, for connection to a data cable 414 so that data can be uploaded from the station. of inspection 400 or downloaded to it. For example, procedural data from cable module 402 could be downloaded to inspection station 400 and then downloaded to a remote computer device through data port 412. Software updates and/or or firmware may be downloaded from a remote computer device through data port 412 to inspection station 400 and then uploaded to cable module 402, for example.

[00151] Figures 13A and 13B represent an arrangement for tracking the use of a cable module by tracking the installation of power supply units on the cable module. Figure 13A is a block diagram of a cable module 500. Cable module 500 is similar to cable module 10 in many respects. The cable module 500 includes a removable power unit 502, such as a battery, and a cable processor 504. Figure 13B illustrates a process flow that may be performed by the cable processor 504. The process may be performed from firmware and/or software in memory 506 that is associated with processor 504. As illustrated in Figure 13A, power supply unit 502 can include an identification emitter 508, such as an RFID tag, for example, that can communicate with an ID receiver 510, such as an RFID reader, for example, in the cable module 500. The ID emitter 508 is a wireless signal emitter, for example; however, any suitable ID issuer can be used. Identification receiver 510 is a wireless signal receiver that is in communication with cable processor 504, for example; however, any suitable ID receiver can be used. The ID emitter 508 transmits a unique ID of the power supply unit 502 that can be received by the ID receiver 510. The strength of the signal emitted by the ID emitter 508 can be controlled or limited so that the ID receiver 510 can detect the signal emitted from the identification emitter 508 only when the power supply unit 502 is very close to the identification receiver 510 (for example, up to 10 cm). In at least one case, the ID receiver 510 can be mounted on the control board 100 (Figures 2 to 4) so that the ID receiver 510 can detect the ID emitter 508 only when the power supply unit 502 has been inserted into the cable module 500. In various cases, short range RFID tags and readers can be used so that the ID receiver 510 is less likely to falsely detect power units 502 that are not installed in the cable module 500.

[00152] With reference to the process flow depicted in Figure 13B, the ID reader 510 detects an ID issuer in step 520. In step 522, the cable processor 504 determines whether the power supply unit 502 is a new power supply unit based on its ID received by the ID receiver 510. The term "new" in this context means that a specific power supply unit 502 has not been used with a specific cable module 500. The cable processor may perform this step by comparing the newly detected power unit ID 502 against a stored list of power unit IDs that were previously detected by the identification receiver 510. This list of previously used power unit IDs is stored in a non-volatile memory of cable module 500, for example. If the power supply unit 502 is not new, i.e., its ID is in the stored list of previously used supply units, the process proceeds to step 524, where an appropriate pre-established action (or actions) is taken. For example, cable processor 504 may disable use of cable module 500 until a new, i.e., previously unrecognized, power supply unit is installed in cable module 500. In at least one such case, the module cable module 500 may disable motor 80. In addition to or in place of the above, the cable module screen 500 may display to the user that the power supply unit is not new and prompt to install a different power supply unit, which does causing the process to return to step 520.

[00153] If the power supply unit 502 is determined to be new by the processor 504, i.e. the supply unit ID 502 is not in the stored list of previously used supply units, the process proceeds to step 526, where the cable processor 504 increments the usage count for cable module 500. As mentioned earlier, a count-up counter and/or a count-down counter may be used. In step 528, cable module 504 compares the usage count against a pre-set threshold value representing the number of times cable module 500 must be used with a different, unique power supply unit. This usage count can serve as a proxy for the number of times the cable module 500 has been used in patient procedures. If the usage count threshold has been reached at step 528, a pre-established end-of-life action (or actions) may be taken at step 529. For example, cable processor 504 may disable the motor, module screen cable module can display to the user that the cable module 500 has no uses remaining and/or can activate an alarm that alerts the user that there are no uses remaining, for example. If the usage count threshold has not been reached, the cable processor 504 adds the ID of the new power unit 502 to the stored list of previously used power units in step 530, so that the new power unit 502 cannot be used. be used after its current use. In other variations, the steps illustrated in Figure 13B can be performed in different orders. For example, the new Power Unit ID can be added to the stored list before incrementing the usage count. Other techniques for accompanying the installation of power units into the cable module are described below in conjunction with Figures 14E and 15A and B.

[00154] The modality described above in conjunction with Figures 13A and 13B can be used with rechargeable and/or non-rechargeable battery packs. That said, battery packs that are used with a 500 cable module, recharged, and then reused with the same 500 cable module can cause the 500 cable module to go into a lockout mode. Regarding this particular embodiment, recharged battery packs would need to be reused with a different cable module. In this line of reasoning, an embodiment of the cable module 500 is envisaged in which a recharged battery pack can be reused with the same cable module 500.

[00155] In at least one case, the processor 504 may employ logic that prevents a battery pack 502 from being counted twice or more for the same use. In at least one case, processor 504 may not count a battery pack 502 a second time unless it has been engaged or disengaged from cable module 500. Even then, processor 504 may require an elapsed time between the first engagement and the subsequent engagement before the subsequent engagement counts as a second use. Such elapsed time could be the time it takes to recharge the battery pack, for example.

[00156] In addition to or in lieu of the above, a cable module may track the number of times a DSM is connected or disconnected from the cable module as a substitute for the number of times the cable module has been used. The cable module can display the updated number of uses remaining for the cable module, the estimated number of uses remaining for the cable module, such as with a volume indicator that indicates the percentage of life remaining, for example, and/ or the number of times the cable module has been used. When the usage threshold limit is reached, the cable module, through the cable processor, can perform one or more end-of-life actions, such as showing the cable module is worn out, disabling further usage of the cable by stopping the motor, for example, and/or sounding an audible alarm, for example. Figures 14A through 14G depict different arrangements for tracking the connection or disconnection of a DSM from a cable module, as discussed in detail below.

[00157] Now referring to Figure 14A, the cable module 600, which is similar to the cable module 10 in many respects, comprises two rotary drive systems 602, 604. The DSM which has two drive systems, as discussed above , may be operatively coupled to rotary drive systems 602, 604. The DSM may have grooves that are configured to receive and slide over bilateral edges 605A, 605B of a tongue defined in a connection area 608 on the upper portion of the control module. cable 600. In such an arrangement, cable module 600 may include a push switch 612 on the tongue, as shown in Figure 14A, and/or elsewhere on connection area 608, so that when a DSM, such as the DSM 634 (Figures 14B and 14C), for example, is connected to cable module 600, push switch 612 is pressed. In at least one case, the DSM may not press switch 612 until the DSM has been fully seated in cable module 600. Switch 612 may be connected to the cable processor, whereby the cable processor may count the number of times push switch 612 is pressed as a substitute for the number of times a DSM has been connected to cable module 600 and/or as a substitute for the number of times cable module 600 has been used. Also, the cable processor could require the push switch 612 to be pressed continuously for at least a certain period of time (eg, 30 seconds) before incrementing the count to reduce instances of false positives. When a pre-set threshold number of uses, or activations of the 612 key, is reached, an end-of-life action (or actions) can be taken, as described here.

[00158] Figures 14B and 14C illustrate an arrangement for an electromechanical push switch 612. As shown, the push switch 612 includes a head 620 that extends into an opening 622 defined in the tongue and/or any other suitable coupling surface of the DSM of cable module 600. Head 620 may be at the end of a spring arm 624 configured to tilt the position of head 620 upward into opening 622. Spring arm 624 also includes a shoulder 626 positioned behind an extension , or edge 628, defined in cable module 600, which limits upward movement of head 620 in aperture 622 to a desired position. Pressable switch 612 also includes a contact 630. When switch 612 is in an unactuated, or open, condition, as illustrated in Figure 14B, spring arm 624 is not engaged with contact 630; when DSM 634 is attached to cable module 600 and pushes head 620 down, as illustrated in Figure 14C, shoulder 626 of spring arm 624 engages contact 630 and closes switch 612. DSM 634 includes a projection 632 extending therefrom which is configured to contact head 620. Switch arm 624 and contact 630 may comprise electrically conductive materials that may complete a circuit in communication with the cable processor when the head 620 is pressed down by DSM 634, as discussed above.

[00159] Now referring to Figure 14D, a cable module 700 may include an electrical contact plate 702 that interfaces/matches and makes electrical connections with a corresponding electrical contact plate 704 in a DSM 706. In at least one case , the cable module processor 700 may count the number of times a DSM, such as the DSM 706, for example, is mounted on the cable module 700. The processor may increment the connection count to the DSM when contacts 704 of the DSM 706 engage with the contacts of cable module 700 and make a functional data connection therebetween. Matching contact pads 702, 704 can serve as a surrogate for the number of times a DSM has been connected to cable module 700 and as a surrogate for the number of times cable module 700 has been used. Similar to the above, the cable processor could require that there be a data connection between the contact pads 702, 704 continuously for at least a certain period of time (e.g. 30 seconds) before incrementing the count to reduce cases of false positives. In another variation, the cable processor and the DSM processor may exchange data when the DSM 706 is connected to the cable module 700. In this exchange, the cable processor may receive identification information for the DSM 706 so that the processor module can identify the DSM 706 connected to the cable module 700 (for example, the model type for the DSM). In such an arrangement, the cable processor may increment the connection count to the DSM each time the cable processor receives identification information from a DSM that is attached to it. In either of these variations, the cable processor compares the connection count to the DSM against a pre-established threshold, and if the threshold is reached, the cable processor performs an end-of-life action (or actions).

[00160] An alternative arrangement for detecting the connection of a DSM to a cable module is shown in Figures 14E to 14G. The illustrated arrangement uses a Hall effect sensor to detect the connection of the DSM 706 to the cable module 700. As shown in Figure 14E, the cable module 700 may include a Hall effect sensor 710 positioned relative to an upper surface 712 of the cable module 700 to which the DSM 706 is to be attached. Correspondingly, the DSM 706 includes a magnet 714, such as a permanent magnet, which is in close proximity to the Hall Effect sensor 710 when the DSM 706 is fully and properly connected to the cable module 700, as shown in Fig. Figure 14G. The Hall effect sensor 710 may be in communication with the cable processor through a lead wire 716, for example. The Hall effect sensor 710 can detect the approaching magnet 714 of the DSM 706 when the DSM 706 is installed in the cable module 700. The magnetic field generated by the magnet 714 can be constant and the cable processor can access data regarding to the magnetic field, so that the distance between the magnet 714 and the Hall effect sensor 710 can be determined based on the output of the Hall effect sensor 710. When the distance between the magnet 714 and the Hall effect sensor 710 stabilizes at a distance corresponding to the DSM 706 fully and properly installed in the cable module 700, the cable processor can infer that the DSM 706 is fully and properly installed in the cable module 700 and update the connection count to the DSM.

[00161] Similarly, with reference to Figure 14E, the cable module 700 includes a battery cavity 724 configured to receive a battery pack 722 therein. The cable module 700 further includes a Hall effect sensor 720 configured to detect insertion of the removable battery pack 722 into the battery cavity 724. The Hall effect sensor of the battery pack 720 may be positioned on an upper inner surface 723 in battery cavity 724 in cable module 700 to battery pack 722. As the reader will appreciate, battery pack 722 is configured to supply power to cable module 700 via electrical terminals 726, and it may be desirable to position Hall effect sensor 720 as far away from electrical terminals 726 as possible so that any magnetic fields generated by current flowing through terminals 726 will not substantially affect the ability of Hall effect sensor 720 to properly detect insertion of battery pack 722 on the cable module 700. The battery pack 722 includes a magnet 730, such as a permanent magnet, for example, that the Hall effect sensor 720 senses when the battery pack 722 is inserted into the battery cavity 724. Similar to the Hall Effect sensor 710 of the DSM, the Hall Effect sensor 720 of the battery pack is in communication with the cable processor through a lead wire 732, for example. Hall effect sensor 720 can detect approaching battery pack magnet 730 when battery pack 722 is installed in battery cavity 724. The magnetic field generated by magnet 730 can be constant and the cable processor can access data referring to the magnetic field so that the distance between the magnet 730 and the Hall effect sensor 720 can be determined based on the output of the Hall effect sensor 720. When the distance between the magnet 730 and the Hall effect sensor 720 becomes stabilizes at a distance that corresponds to battery pack 722 fully and properly installed in cable module 700, the cable processor can infer that battery pack 722 is fully and properly installed in cable module 700 and updates the connection count to battery pack.

[00162] A cable module can track the number of times a DSM and/or battery pack is connected and/or disconnected from the cable module as a substitute for the number of times the cable module has been used . The cable module can display the updated number of uses remaining for the cable module, the estimated number of uses remaining for the cable module, such as with a volume indicator that indicates the percentage of life remaining, for example, and/ or the number of times the cable module has been used. When the usage threshold limit is reached, the cable module, through the cable processor, can perform one or more end-of-life actions, such as showing the cable module is worn out, disabling further usage of the cable by stopping the motor, for example, and/or sounding an audible alarm, for example.

[00163] Now with reference to Figures 15A and 15B, a cable module 800 can follow the installation of power supply units therein using a pressure switch that is pressed when a power supply unit 806, for example, is completely and properly fixed to cable module 800. Cable module 800 is similar to cable module 10 in many respects. The cable 800 includes an electrically conductive contact block 802 to which the power supply unit 806 connects to supply voltage to the electrical components of the cable module 800. In the illustrated arrangement, a pressure switch 804 is adjacent to the cable module 800. conductive contact 802 and is in communication with the cable processor. When power unit 806 is mounted on cable module 800, referring to Figure 15B, power unit housing 806 is depressed and actuates pressure switch 804. Each time pressure switch 804 is actuated, the processor can increment the power unit connection count until a threshold is reached, at which point an end-of-life action (or actions) can be taken. Similar to the above, the cable processor may require pressure switch 804 to be actuated continuously for a period of time (e.g. 30 seconds) before incrementing the power unit connection count to reduce instances of false positives. In other arrangements, an electromechanical switch can be used, for example.

[00164] In many cases, a cable module processor may increment the usage count each time the cable processor is powered up. In certain cases, a cable module's processor may be automatically de-energized when a battery pack is disconnected from the cable module. Similarly, the processor can be automatically powered up when a battery pack is attached to the cable module. In at least such an embodiment, the battery pack is the sole source of power for the cable module and disconnection of the battery pack from the cable module can immediately de-energize the processor and the connection of a battery pack to the cable module can immediately re-energize the processor. In certain embodiments, the cable module may include one or more capacitive elements that can store power from a battery pack when the battery pack is engaged with the cable module. When the battery pack is disconnected from the cable module, the capacitive elements may supply power to the processor for a period of time and, as a result, the processor may not be powered down during a battery pack change. In such cases, the processor may count a lifespan, or use, even if a battery installation is detected by a sensor as described above and/or if the processor is energized after being de-energized.

[00165] In several cases, the cable processor of the cable module 800 can monitor the frequency with which it receives electrical power through a conductive contact block 802 that is used to couple the battery power unit 806 to the electrical components internals of cable module 800. For example, cable module 800 may comprise a voltage and/or current microsensor sensor (not shown) connected to conductive contact pad 802. The voltage and/or current sensor may be in communication with the cable processor. When a threshold input voltage and/or current from battery pack 806 is detected at contact block 802, the cable processor may increment the battery pack connection count. This arrangement can be useful when the cable processor is occasionally powered by sources other than the power supply unit, such as supercapacitors or other sources.

[00166] Referring now to Figure 16, a cable module 900 comprises a plurality of power supplies, including a removable battery power supply unit 902 and a secondary power supply 904, for example. Removable battery power unit 902 is similar in many respects to the removable battery power units described in the present invention. Battery power unit 902 contains multiple Li-ion and/or LiPo battery cells, for example. Secondary power supply 904 provides a source of power to cable module 900 even when removable battery power unit 902 is removed or otherwise disconnected from cable module 900. With respect to this embodiment, the power supply secondary 904 is used for low power operations of cable module 900, such as powering the electronics on the control board 910 when the removable battery power unit 902 is removed from cable module 900 - not for high power operations , such as powering motor (or motors) 905 from cable module 900, for example. In various arrangements, the secondary power supply 904 may comprise rechargeable battery cells and/or supercapacitors (also known as ultracapacitors) that are charged via the removable battery power unit 902 when it is installed. Secondary power supply 904 can power the electronics on control board 910 in the absence of primary power supply 902 as long as secondary power supply 904 has sufficient charge.

[00167] The secondary power supply 904 can allow the cable module 900 to track usage events and/or perform end-of-life actions, even when the power supply unit 902 is not installed in the cable module 900. Figure 17A is a flowchart of a process executable by control board processor 910, such as cable processor 2124, for example. The process can be performed from software and/or firmware stored in the memory of the cable module, for example, according to at least one embodiment. Prior to performing a surgical procedure, the power supply unit 902 is installed in the cable module 900. At process step 920, the cable processor may record a timestamp for the moment a DSM is properly connected to the cable module. 900. When the surgical procedure is initiated, at step 922, the cable processor may record timestamps for each trip of cable module 900 that occurs during the surgical procedure. In addition, the cable processor can track the time elapsed between shots. In at least one case, the secondary power supply 904 can continue to supply power to the cable processor to keep up with the timing after a trigger event, even if the removable power supply unit 902 is removed from the cable module 900. At step 924 , the cable processor can determine if the elapsed time since the last trigger is greater than a threshold time period. In at least one case, the threshold time period may be on the order of the time required to process and substantially sterilize the cable module after a procedure, for example. If the time period between triggers is not greater than the threshold, the procedure can be assumed to be in progress and the process can return to step 922 to record the timestamp for the next trigger. On the other hand, if the time period between shots is greater than the threshold, it can be assumed that the procedure has completed, at which point, in step 926, the cable processor may increment the driver module usage count. cable 900. In step 928, the cable processor compares the usage count to the pre-programmed threshold usage count for cable module 900. If the usage count is less than the threshold, cable module 900 may be used in another procedure and the process may return to step 920 to wait for a DSM to be connected for the next step. On the other hand, if the usage count threshold has been reached, the process advances to step 930, where the end-of-life action (or actions) for the cable module 900 can be initiated. As described above, the end-of-life action (or actions) may include disabling the cable module so that the cable module cannot be used in subsequent surgical procedures. In at least one case, the cable module motor can be physically and/or electronically disabled. In certain cases, the end-of-life action (or actions) include visually indicating the end-of-life for the cable module on a cable module display and/or sounding an audible alarm, for example.

[00168] Figure 17B is a flowchart of another example process that can be executed by the cable processor and occasionally powered by the secondary power supply 904 to follow the uses of the cable module. At step 950, the cable processor may detect the attachment of the removable battery power unit 902 to the cable module 900. Various techniques for detecting the insertion of the battery power unit 902 are described elsewhere in this document. In many cases, insertion of battery pack 902 indicates to the cable processor that a surgical procedure involving cable module 900 is about to begin. As a result, the cable processor may set a process flag to ON at step 952 when the cable processor detects insertion of battery pack 902 into cable module 900. At step 954, the cable processor may detect connection complete and suitable from a DSM to the cable module for the procedure. Various techniques for detecting fixation of a DSM are described elsewhere in this document. Once the DSM and Battery Pack 902 are properly secured, the surgical instrument can be used to complete a surgical procedure. In the event that the battery pack 902 is removed from the cable module 900, the cable processor may detect the removal of the battery power unit 902 at step 956. Various techniques for detecting the removal of a battery pack are disclosed in other part of this document. In many cases, removal of the power supply unit is indicative of completion of a surgical procedure and, as a result, the cable processor, now powered by secondary power supply 904, may increment the usage count for cable module 900 in step 958. Even if removal of the power pack does not constitute the end of a surgical procedure, insertion of a new battery pack and/or reinsertion of a recharged battery pack can be seen as another use. Such reuse of cable module 900 may be conditioned on a test administered in step 960 to assess whether cable module 900 has reached the end of its useful life. If the cable module end of life is reached, the cable processor may initiate an appropriate end of life action (or actions) at step 962. Various end of life actions are disclosed elsewhere in this document . It should be noted that, with respect to any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the end-of-life action can be overridden by the user of the cable module. Such situations can typically arise when the usage threshold count is reached in the middle of a surgical procedure, for example.

[00169] Figures 18A to 18E show end-of-life actions that can be performed by a cable module that uses a removable battery power unit, for example, to prevent further use of the cable module. Figure 18A illustrates a cable module 1000 that includes a spring-activated internal interlock 1002. Interlock 1002, when released by cable module 1000, prevents complete and proper installation of a battery power unit 1004, and/or any another suitable set of batteries, in the cable module 1000. In many cases, the lock 1002 can be configured to completely prevent the power supply unit 1004 from entering the cable module 1000. In other cases, the lock 1002 can prevent the unit from power supply 1004 is inserted to a depth at which the battery contacts make electrical contact with the cable contacts, as illustrated in Figure 18A and described in more detail below. Due to activation of lock 1002, power supply unit 1004 projects out of cable module 1000 by a distance D, as also illustrated in Figure 18A. But for the lock 1002, the battery pack 1004 can be seated to a depth at which an end cap 1006 of the battery pack 1004 is aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the cable module compartment 1000.

[00170] As discussed above, lockout 1002 can selectively prevent power supply unit 1004 from supplying power to cable module 1000. In the unlatched state of cable module 1000 illustrated in Figure 18B, an electrical contact block 1016 of the power module cable 1000 may be in contact with a contact block 1018 of battery pack 1004 so that the internal electrical components of cable module 1000 may be powered by battery power unit 1004. In the latched state of cable module 1000 illustrated in Figure 18C, interlock 1002 prevents contact block 1018 of battery pack 1004 from contacting contact block 1016 of cable module 1000. In embodiments where cable module 1000 does not include a secondary power supply and/or a means for storing power, the cable module 1000 will be useless in its latched condition. In embodiments where the cable module 1000 includes a secondary power supply and/or a means for storing power, the cable module 1000 may utilize power from these other sources to run the operating system of the cable module 1000, but not the cable module 1000 drive systems and/or electric motors, for example.

[00171] Figure 18B illustrates the lock 1002 in a normal operating state in which it is not locking the battery pack, and Figure 18C illustrates the lock 1002 in the locked state in which it is locking the battery pack 1004. The lock 1002 is forced to rotate from its unlocked position (Figure 18B) to its locked position (Figure 18C) by a torsion spring 1010 that is connected to the lock 1002. The torsion spring 1010 has a first end biased against an inner surface 1013 of cable module 1000 and a second end mounted to lock 1002. Cable module 1000 further includes a latch 1012 configured to releasably retain lock 1002 in its unlocked position. Lock 1002 includes a lock shoulder 1014 that adjoins lock 1012 when lock 1012 is in an extended position and therefore retains lock 1002 in its unlocked position. When lock 1012 is retracted, as illustrated in Figure 18C, shoulder 1014 of lock 1002 is no longer engaged with lock 1012 and torsion spring 1010 can force lock 1002 into its locked position.

[00172] When an end-of-life condition for the cable module 1000 has not yet been reached, a lock actuator on the cable module 1000 can retain the lock 1012 in the position illustrated in Figure 18B. When an end-of-life condition has been reached, however, the lock actuator may move lock 1012 in the direction indicated by arrow A to move lock 1012 in the opposite direction from lock shoulder 1014, thereby allowing lock 1002 to rotate counterclockwise, as indicated by arrow B in Figure 18C, due to the force of spring 1010. In the locked state, lock 1002 protrudes into the battery compartment of the cable module so that when a set of batteries 1004 is inserted into cable module 1000, electrical contact block 1016 of cable module 1000 does not contact contact block 1018 of battery pack 1004, as discussed above. The lock actuator may comprise any suitable actuator, such as a solenoid for example.

[00173] In addition to or in place of the above, Figures 18D and 18E illustrate an embodiment in which, at the end of the useful life determined for the cable module, a battery pack positioned in the cable module cannot be removed from the cable module, thereby preventing insertion of a new (or recharged) battery pack into the cable module for a subsequent procedure. Figure 18D illustrates a battery pack 1004 in a normal operating state in which it can be removed from the cable module after a procedure, and Figure 18E illustrates a latch 1040 that locks the battery pack 1004 to the cable module so so that battery pack 1004 cannot be removed from the cable module. As shown in Figures 18D and 18E, battery pack 1004 can define an opening 1042 into which a lock head 1044 of latch 1040 can be inserted to lock battery pack 1004 in position. Latch 1040 is biased downward by a compression spring 1046 mounted on an upper shaft 1048 of latch 1040. Latch 1040 also includes an upper shoulder 1050 which, in the normal operating state of the cable module, shown in Figure 18D, is adjacent a second latch 1052 that is positioned to maintain spring 1046 in a compressed state and prevent downward movement of latch 1040. As also shown in Figures 18D and 18E, latch head 1044 includes a shoulder 1054 which, when latched, latch 1044 is in its actuated position, as shown in Figure 18E, is latched behind a corresponding shoulder 1056 defined by the battery pack 1004.

[00174] In operation, when the cable processor determines that the cable module has reached the end of its useful life (by any of the means described here), the cable processor can actuate the second latch 1052, causing the second latch 1052 move out of the way of latch 1044. The second latch 1052 can be actuated by any suitable actuator, such as a solenoid, for example. In the illustrated embodiment, second latch 1052 moves from left to right in the opposite direction from shoulder 1050 of latch 1040, as indicated by arrow A, when latch 1052 is actuated. Removal of second latch 1052 from shoulder 1050 allows spring 1046 to decompress and urge latch 1044 downward, as indicated by arrow B, through an opening 1060 defined in compartment 1013 of the cable module. As latch 1040 is moved downward by spring 1046, latch head 1044 extends into opening 1042 defined in battery pack 1004. Latch shoulder 1054 of latch head 1044 can slide through opening 1042 and be latched behind corresponding shoulder 1056 of battery pack 1004. Downward movement of latch head 1044 is constrained by cable module compartment 1013 when upper shoulder 1050 of latch 1040 contacts cable module compartment 1013. As a result, battery pack 1004 cannot be removed from the cable module, thereby preventing insertion of a new (or recharged) battery pack into the cable module for a subsequent procedure.

[00175] Now referring to Figures 19A to 19C, a cable module 1100 comprises a rechargeable battery pack 1102 (with one or more rechargeable battery cells 1104) that can be recharged when the cable module 1100 is coupled to a station of loading 1106. The cable module 1100 further includes a sliding door 1108 that slides, generally up and down in a channel 1110 defined in the cable module 1100, between an open position (Figure 19C) and a closed position (Figure 19B ). A compression spring 1112 is positioned in the channel 1110 which is configured to urge the sliding door 1108 down to its closed position. When door 1108 is in its closed position, door 1108 can protect battery charging terminals 1114, as shown in Figure 19B, from being damaged and/or accidentally coming into contact with a conductive surface in the surrounding environment, for example. To recharge the battery cells 1104, the cable module 1100 is disposed in a receiving area 1120 defined by the charging station 1106 that includes charging terminals 1122 that engage and contact the charging terminals 1114 of the cable module 1100 when the cable module 1100 is fully and properly inserted into the receiving area 1120, as shown in Figure 19C. When cable module 1100 is positioned in received area 1120, sliding door 1108 engages a shoulder 1124 of charging station 1106 which drives sliding door 1108 upward, as indicated by arrow A, compressing spring 1112 and unsecuring ( or disclosing) the charging terminals of the battery pack 1114. At this point, the charging terminals 1114 may connect and come into contact with the charging terminals of the receiving station 1122 to thereby recharge the battery cells 1104 of the battery pack 1102.

[00176] The charging station 1106 may be powered by an AC power supply via a power cable 1130. The charging station 1106 may also include a visual screen 1132 that displays information about the cable module 1100. For example, charging station 1106 may include a processor (not shown) that communicates with cable processor when cable module 1100 is installed in charging station 1106. For example, charging terminals 1114, 1122 may also include charging terminals. data that provide a data path between processors. The charging station processor may receive information/data from the cable processor which may be displayed on screen 1132. The displayed information may include, for example, the state of charge of the battery pack 1102 (e.g., X% charged), and/or any information tracked by the cable processor, such as the life count or remaining uses of the cable module and/or the number of shots over its lifespan, for example.

[00177] Figures 20A and 20B show covers 1201, 1202, 1203 that can be used with a cable module 1200 during a sterilization process, in order to protect the internal components of the cable module 1200. The cable module 1200 includes an attachment portion configured to have a DSM attached thereto. An end actuator connection area coverage 1201 can connect to (for example, via press fit) and cover the area where the DSM connects to the cable module 1200. The cable module 1200 also includes a set of removable trigger that is used to actuate the cable module actuating systems 1200. In addition to or in lieu of the foregoing, a trigger cover 1202 may attach (e.g., via press fit) and cover the opening that is created when the trigger assembly is removed from cable module 1200. Cable module 1200 further comprises a battery cavity configured to receive a removable battery pack therein. Also, in addition to or in lieu of the foregoing, a battery pack cover 1203 may attach to and cover the location where the battery pack is inserted into a gun grip portion 1206 of the cable module 1200. These covers 1201, 1202, 1203 are preferably produced from a material that is resistant to the chemicals used to sterilize the cable module, such as plastic, for example. Additionally, covers 1201, 1202, 1203 can cover the electrical contacts of the cable module 1200 including an end actuator contact plate 1210, the drive systems 1212 and/or the battery pack internal contacts (not shown), for example.

[00178] Fixing the covers 1201, 1202 and/or 1203 to the cable module 1200 can help in tracking the number of times the cable module 1200 was used and/or sterilized. Similarly, separating the covers 1201, 1202 and/or 1203 from the cable module 1200 can aid in tracking the number of times the cable 1200 has been used and/or sterilized. At least one of the covers 1201, 1202, 1203 may include a means for activating a switch on the cable module 1200 that indicates that the cover has been installed. When such a switch is activated, the cable processor can assume that a sterilization procedure is imminent and enter a sterilization mode of operation that is optimized to withstand a sterilization procedure. When the cable processor is in a sterilization mode of operation, the cable processor can prevent the cable module 1200 processor (or processors) from being operated, de-energize certain contacts and/or sensors, energize certain contacts and/or sensors , recording any data stored in temporary memory onto a memory chip, copying the cable module's memory to backup memory, and/or creating a copy of the current version of the operating system software for the cable module, for example. The cable processor may also increase the usage count of the cable module 1200 when one or more of the covers 1201, 1202, 1203 are attached to or detached from the cable module 1200. In the illustrated arrangement, the connection area coverage of DSM 1201 includes a protrusion 1220 that contacts and actuates a corresponding switch 1222 on cable module 1200 (e.g., a push switch, or contact switch, etc.) when cover 1201 is positioned on cable module 1200. switch 1222 may be in communication with the cable processor and, in many cases, the cable processor may update its sterilization count when actuation of switch 1222 is detected. In other arrangements, the trigger 1220 may be on other cover pieces 1202, 1203 and/or arranged in a different position on the cover of the DSM connection area 1201. In any case, once the battery pack is generally , removed during sterilization, covers 1201, 1202, 1203 are preferably used on a cable module with a secondary power supply that powers the cable processor even when the battery pack is removed, as described herein. As described elsewhere in the present disclosure, the cable processor may implement one or more of the end-of-life actions described herein when the sterilization count reaches the threshold level.

[00179] Figure 20C shows a variation of the battery pack cover 1203, and Figure 20D shows a battery pack 1240 that is interchangeable with the battery pack cover 1203 in Figure 20C. Due to the fact that the battery pack cover 1203 and the battery pack 1240 are designed to fit the battery pack opening in the pistol grip portion 1206 of the cable module 1200 in place of one another, the battery pack cover 1206 battery pack 1203 of Figure 20C has a shape and configuration that are very similar to battery pack 1240 of Figure 20D. For example, battery pack cover 1203 and battery pack 1240 include a clip 1244 for locking to cable module 1200. Also, battery pack cover 1203 and battery pack 1240 include one or more tubular containers 1242 Battery cells 1246 may be within containers 1242 in battery pack 1240, but not in shroud 1203. Shroud 1203, however, also includes a feature (or features) that readily distinguish it from battery pack 1240. Illustrated, cover 1203 includes a relatively thin, long, easily gripped tab 1248 on the bottom of cover 1203 which may include markings indicating that it is intended for use in sterilization, as shown in Figure 20C.

[00180] As also shown in Figures 20C and 20D, each of the cover 1203 and the battery pack 1240 may include a respective flap 1250, 1252 that are located at different relative positions. In the illustrated arrangement, the flap 1250 of the cover 1203 is on the right container 1242 and the flap 1252 on the battery pack 1240 is on the left container 1242 thereof. When inserted into cable module 1200, tabs 1250, 1252 can contact and actuate corresponding and respective switches on cable module 1200 to identify insertion of shroud 1203 or battery pack 1240, as the case may be. Switches (not shown) may be in communication with the cable processor, and the cable processor may use actuation of the respective switches to update their usage, sterilization, and/or battery pack connection counts, as applicable. Actuation of the sterilization switch can place the cable module 1200 into a sterilization mode of operation and actuation of the battery switch can place the cable module into a surgical mode of operation, for example. Tabs 1250, 1252 are preferably in two different locations, so the cable module can include two different switches: a battery switch that is actuated only by the battery pack 1240, and a sterilization switch that is actuated only by the sterilization cover 1203. In various arrangements, the tabs 1250, 1252 may be located in opposite mirror positions on the containers 1242, for example. Both cover 1203 and battery pack 1240 may include a feature (or features) 1240 so that they can be inserted in only one orientation, thereby preventing the battery pack tab 1252 from actuating the battery cover switch. sterilization and vice versa. In the illustrated arrangement, for example, the battery pack cover 1203 and the battery pack 1240 include a tongue 1254 on only one side thereof that can fit into a corresponding groove defined on only one side of the cable module 1200.

[00181] Figures 21A to 21C show example screens for a cable module 1300 and/or a DSM 1302 that can provide visual information to a user about the status of the cable module 1300 and/or the DSM 1302. As shown in the Figure 21A, the screen may include a display portion 1304A on cable module 1300 and a display portion 1304B on DSM. Display portions 1304A and 1304B may be adjacent to one another or separate from one another. In certain cases, display portions 1304A and 1304B may be used to display distinct, or non-overlapping, sets of information. In various cases, screen portions 1304A and 1304B can be used to display coordinate information which may or may not be duplicated. In certain other cases, screen 1304 may be wholly on DSM 1302, as shown in Figure 21B, or, alternatively, screen 1304 may be wholly on cable module 1300, as shown in Figure 21C. Screen 1304 may comprise a flat panel display, such as an LED backlit LCD flat panel, for example, and/or any other suitable flat panel or non-flat type panel. Screen 1304 may be controlled by the cable processor and/or the DSM processor.

[00182] Figure 21D shows an example display configuration in which the screen comprises adjacent portions of cable and end actuator 1304A, 1304B. As shown in Figure 21D, the indicators of the cable portion can include indicators related to the cable module, such as a battery status indicator 1310, an indicator 1312 that shows that the DSM connected to the cable module is recognized, and/or a cable module general error indicator 1314. The DSM 1304B screen may include indicators related to the DSM, such as an indicator 1320 indicating that the end actuator jaws are closed, an indicator indicating that the clamps on the end actuator have not yet been fired, an indicator 1322 indicating whether the staples were properly fired, and/or an indicator 1324 indicating whether there is an error related to the staples or the staple cartridge, for example. Of course, in other variations, minor, major, and/or different icons may be used to alert the user/physician to the condition of various components and aspects of the cable module 1300 and/or the DSM 1302. For example , screen 1304 may indicate the number of shots remaining for the battery pack and/or the number of uses remaining for the cable module, for example. The screen may include buttons and/or a touchscreen interface where a user/clinician can enter information into the cable module/DSM processors/memory.

[00183] In many cases, a removable battery pack can be sterilized and recharged after a procedure, so that it can be reused in a subsequent procedure on the same cable module and/or on a different cable module. Figure 22 is a diagram of a removable battery pack 1350 that can track the number of times it has been sterilized, which can be a proxy for the number of times the battery pack 1350 has been used in surgical procedures. . Battery pack 1350 can include a plurality of battery cells 1352 with output voltage terminals 1354. As shown in Figure 22, battery pack 1350 can also include a battery pack processor 1360 mounted on a battery pack circuit board. batteries 1362. Battery pack processor 1360 may include internal or external memory (such as an external memory chip 1364 mounted on circuit board 1362), and battery pack processor 1360 may run software/firmware stored in memory . In this way, the battery pack processor 1360 can implement a battery management system (BMS) that manages the rechargeable battery. The BMS can protect the battery from being operated outside its safe operating area, monitor battery status, calculate secondary data, report that data, control its environment, authenticate the battery, and/or balance battery cells. battery, for example.

[00184] In various arrangements, the battery pack 1350 may also include a wetting or humidity microsensor 1366 to detect when the battery pack 1350 is in a wet or humid environment consistent with undergoing a sterilization process, for example. The battery pack processor 1360 may be in communication with the wetness/humidity sensor 1366 such that for each instance in which the wetness/moisture sensor 1366 detects a wetting or humidity threshold level for a period of time threshold that is consistent with a typical sterilization process, the battery processor 1360 can update its sterilization count as a proxy for the number of times the battery pack 1350 has been used. In many cases, battery processor 1360 can be configured not to count aberrant events that could produce false positives. In either case, once the threshold sterilization count is reached, battery pack processor 1360 may disable use of battery pack 1350. For example, as shown in Figure 22, battery pack 1350 may include a terminal 1368 data port that can provide a connection to the cable module's cable processor. When battery pack 1350 is spent 1350 (eg, has reached the sterilization count threshold), battery pack processor 1360 may send a signal to cable processor that battery pack 1350 is not to be used. The cable processor can then indicate via its display that there is a problem with the 1350 battery pack.

[00185] In many cases, the 1360 battery pack processor can update its usage count based on data connections to a cable module. Each time the 1360 battery pack processor detects a data connection to a cable module, the battery pack processor can update its usage count.

[00186] Battery pack 1350 may include a secondary power supply (not shown) that is charged by battery cells 1352 when battery cells 1352 are charged and/or supply power to a cable module during a surgical procedure. In such an embodiment, the low power battery pack electronics can remain powered even when the 1350 battery pack is not installed in a cable module. Also, as shown in Figure 22, battery pack 1350 may include an end cap 1370 and latch 1372 to facilitate connection of battery pack 1350 to the cable module.

[00187] Figures 23A and 23B illustrate another possible end-of-life action for a cable module. In the illustrated arrangement, a cable module 1400 includes a projection portion 1402 that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. Before the end of the life of the cable module 1400, the projection portion 1402 is retained in its retracted position. In this position, the projection portion 1402 does not interfere with the cable module 1400 positioned in the corresponding opening in its sterilization tray 1404. When the cable processor determines that the cable module 1400 has reached the end of its useful life, according to any suitable algorithm, the projection portion 1402 is moved to its extended position. In such a position, the projection portion 1402 interferes with proper positioning of the cable module 1400 in its corresponding opening in the sterilization tray 1404. In the illustrated arrangement, the projection portion 1402 is at the distal end 1406 of the cable module 1400, but can be positioned in any location that is convenient and that, when designed, inhibits the placement of the cable module 1400 in the corresponding opening of the sterilization tray 1404. As mentioned earlier in connection with Figure 11A, the sterilization tray includes an opening that is shaped to match to the shape of the cable module so that the cable module is narrowly received in the opening. In the arrangement of Figures 23A and 23B, the cable module 1400 fits into the opening of the sterilization tray 1404 when the projection portion 1402 is retracted (not projected), but it does not fit into the opening when the projection portion 1402 is projected to outside cable module 1400, as shown in Figures 23A and 23B. Projection portion 1402 may be solenoid actuated, for example. When the cable processor determines that the end of life of the cable module 1400 has been reached, the solenoid coil is energized such that the solenoid armature is extended outward, thereby causing the projection portion 1402 to extend out of the 1400 cable module, for example. The cable module 1400 may also include a stop, such as a spring-loaded detent, for example, which prevents the solenoid armature and projection portion 1402 from retracting after they have been actuated.

[00188] As described in relation to Figures 12A to 12E, a cable module can be connected to an inspection station before, during and/or after a procedure. The inspection station can be used to perform tests on the cable module to determine if the cable module is in a suitable condition for another surgical procedure, or if the cable module needs to be conditioned or repaired before it becomes suitable for a new surgical procedure. another surgical procedure. As shown in Figures 24A and 24B, an inspection station 1500 includes an extension 1504 configured to be inserted into the empty battery cavity of a cable module so that the extension 1504 can be positioned in communication with the cable module, similar to the modalities described above. A cable module 1501 depicted in Figure 24B comprises such a cable module, for example. The inspection station includes a vacuum coupling 1502 on the upper portion of the extension 1504, which may mate with a corresponding vacuum coupling 1506 on the inner portion of the cable module 1501. The inspection station 1500 may be connected to a vacuum pump through a vacuum port 1508, which is connected to the vacuum coupling 1502 of the inspection station 1500 through a tube 1510. When the vacuum pump is turned on, it can draw air from the inner portion of the cable module 1501 to dry the inner portions of cable module 1501. Inspection station 1500 may include pressure gauges and/or airflow sensors in communication with tube 1510 that measure how well cable module 1501 maintains vacuum pressure. In many cases, such a vacuum test can assess the integrity of various seals throughout the cable module 1501, such as seals engaged with rotary drive outputs 1512, 1514, seals engaged with firing trigger areas 1516, and/or seals engaged with the 1518 electrical contact plate that connects to the DSM, for example. If several cable module seals are not satisfactory, and the cable module is not adequately maintaining a vacuum as sensed by the vacuum sensors, the inspection station 1500 can issue a warning through its display, indicating that the cable module 1501 needs be repaired.

[00189] In addition to or in place of the above, an inspection station can be adapted to dry a cable module after a surgical procedure and/or a sterilization procedure as part of preparing the cable module for a subsequent procedure. Figure 25A illustrates an inspection station 1600 that can be used to dry a cable module 1602, for example. Similar to the above, the inspection station 1600 includes a base portion 1610 and, in addition, an extension 1606 extending from the base portion 1610 that is positionable in the empty battery cavity of the cable module 1602 to positioning the cable module 1602 in communication with the inspection station 1600. The inspection station 1600 includes two fans: a first fan 1604 located at the upper end of the extension 1606, and a second fan 1608 located at the front of the base portion 1610 Fans 1604 and 1608 are powered electrically, such as by an AC power supply, through a power adapter 1612, for example. The first fan 1604 may be directed to the internal components of the cable module 1602 through an opening in the battery pack cavity. The upper surface of the extension 1606 may include vent openings through which air blown by the first fan 1604 may be circulated to the cable module 1602. The second fan 1608 may be directed to a trigger area 1614 of the cable module 1602 to dry the trigger area 1614 and the surrounding areas of the cable module 1602. The upper front surface of the base portion 1610 of the inspection station 1600 may include vent openings 1616 for the second fan 1618 so that air blown by the second fan 1608 can be circulated to the trigger area 1614. The base portion 1610 may also include an air inlet for the fans and 1608 1604, as an air inlet 1618 in the base portion 1610. The inspection station 1600 may also include outlets of air, such as bilateral air vents 1620 at the bottom of extension 1606, to allow exhaust to leave inspection station 1600. Inspection station 1600 can include as many as 1600 fans , air inlets and/or air outlets as deemed necessary.

[00190] Figures 25B, 25C and 25D illustrate another exemplary inspection station 1600. The base portion 1610 in Figures 25B, 25C and 25D is longer from front to back than the base station in Figure 25A, and the lower front fan 1608 in Figures 25B, 25C and 25D is raised above base portion 1610 and angled in trigger area 1614. The arrangement shown in Figures 25B, 25C and 25D also includes a cover (or overcover) 1630 that attaches to the base portion 1610 of the inspection station 1600 and which covers and surrounds the cable module 1602. The cover 1630 can be produced from a translucent hard plastic, such as polycarbonate, for example. In one aspect, fan 1608 may be powered by adapter 1612 of inspection station 1600, as shown in Figure 25C. In another aspect, fan 1608 may have its own power adapter 1632, separate from inspection station power adapter 1612 1600, as shown in Figure 25D. The upper surface of the cover/overcover 1630 may include one or more vents 1634, and the cover/overcover 1630 may also include vents 1636 next to the fan 1608.

[00191] Figure 25E illustrates another arrangement for the inspection station 1600 that uses a vacuum flow to dry the cable module 1602. In such an arrangement, the cover/overcover 1630 can define one or more air inlets 1640 (two of which are illustrated in Figure 25E) and have a vacuum port 1642 configured to be positioned in communication with a vacuum pump. To dry the cable module 1602, the vacuum pump is turned on to draw air from the air inlets 1640, through the cable module 1602, and into the vacuum port 1642. Preferably, the vacuum port 1642 is spaced apart. of the air inlets 1640 to increase airflow through the cable module 1602. In the example of Figure 25E, the air inlets 1640 are at the bottom of the cover/overcap 1630 and the vacuum port 1642 is at the top of the cover/overcap 1630; however, any suitable provision could be used.

[00192] A cable module, such as the 1602 cable module, for example, can also be tested using a simulated load adapter. In various cases, cable module 1602 can be tested by a load adapter 1650 when cable module 1602 is connected to inspection station 1600, as shown in the examples of Figures 26A through 26D. In other cases, a simulated load adapter can be configured to test a cable module without an add-on inspection station. In any case, the simulated load adapter 1650 may include a compartment 1651 and opposing load motors 1652, 1654 positioned in the compartment 1651. As described in more detail below, the first load motor 1652 is configured to apply a first test load to a first cable module drive motor 1602, and the second load motor 1654 is configured to apply a second load test to a second cable module drive motor 1602. The first load motor 1652 is configured to drive a first coupling nut 1660 operatively engageable with a coupler 1656 driven by the first cable module drive motor 1602. The second load motor 1654 is configured to drive a second coupling nut 1662 that is operatively engageable with a coupler driven 1658 by the cable module. second cable module drive motor 1602.

[00193] The simulated load adapter 1650 may comprise a motor control circuit on a circuit board with at least one processor, a memory and a motor controller for controlling the load motors 1652, 1654, for example. The motor control circuit can be incorporated as an integrated circuit (for example, a SOC) or several discrete integrated circuits, or other circuit. The motor control circuit can control the motors 1652, 1654 to apply an opposing force, under different load conditions, to the cable module rotary drive systems 1602. The power consumed by the cable module rotary drive systems 1602 for resisting and/or overcoming opposing forces can be monitored by inspection station 1600 to determine if the cable module motor (or motors) and slewing drive systems are functioning properly. In various cases, the first motor 1652 of the simulated load adapter 1650 may be driven in one direction, and the cable module's drive motor 1602 may drive the first coupler 1656 in an opposite direction. If the cable module drive motor 1602 is unable to withstand or overcome the simulated load applied by the first motor 1652 of the simulated load adapter 1650, then the simulated load adapter 1650 may instruct the cable module 1602 that the module cable 1602 cannot function as required. In various cases, the second motor 1654 of the simulated load adapter 1650 can be driven in one direction, and the cable module's drive motor 1602 can drive the second coupler 1658 in an opposite direction. If the cable module drive motor 1602 is unable to withstand or overcome the simulated load applied by the second motor 1654 of the simulated load adapter 1650, then the simulated load adapter 1650 can instruct the cable module 1602 that the cable module 1602 cannot function as required. Such an evaluation may form one aspect of the overall evaluation of the suitability of the cable module 1602 for another procedure.

[00194] In several cases, in addition to the above, the simulated load adapter motor control circuit can vary the load transmitted by the simulated load adapter motors 1652, 1654 in the cable module rotary drive systems 1600 from (relatively) low to (relatively) high in a manner that simulates the load that rotary cable module rotary drive systems must experience during a surgical procedure. In at least one case, the motor control circuit can be programmed so that it can vary the load profiles of the motors 1652, 1654 based on the type of DSM to be used in a future procedure. For example, with the use of user interface 1672 (e.g., buttons 1670 and/or a touch screen interface 1672), the user could specify desired simulated load conditions, such as selecting a load condition pre-programmed simulation corresponding to the different DSMs available, for example. The simulated load adapter 1650 may have a data contact terminal 1674 that corresponds to the cable module data connection terminal 1602. In this way, the user's load profile selection can be uploaded from the load processor. inspection station, to the cable module processor, and to the load simulator 1650 motor control circuit. In real time and/or after simulation, the motor control circuit can download to the module processor time-stamped power readings of the power (eg, volt-amps) supplied to the load simulator motors 1652, 1654 during the simulation. The inspection station processor and/or cable module processor can correlate these readings with time-stamped readings of power drawn by the cable module motor (or motors) to assess the effectiveness of the motor (or motors). ) of cable module and rotary drive systems.

[00195] The simulated load adapter 1650 can be powered by the inspection station 1600, for example. As shown in the example of Figure 26B, electrical power from inspection station 1600 can be provided to simulated load adapter 1650 through cable module 1602 and electrical contact board 1674. In the example of Figure 26C, a separate power cable 1680 extending from the inspection station 1600 to the simulated load adapter 1650 can supply electrical power directly to the load simulator adapter 1650, bypassing the cable module 1602. In another arrangement, the simulated load adapter 1650 can have its own connection to an AC power source and/or its own battery power source. In many cases, power cable 1680 may also position load simulator 1650 in signal communication directly with inspection station 1600.

[00196] The 1650 simulated load adapter can also be used to monitor backlash in cable module gears that are part of rotary drive systems. When the simulated load adapter 1650 is in a slack detection mode, the simulated load adapter motor control circuit can cause one or both of the simulated load motors 1652, 1654 to rotate, and the inspection 1600 and/or the cable module 1602 can track the rotations by the corresponding rotary drive systems of the cable module 1602. The difference in rotation between the simulated load adapter motors 1652, 1654 and the rotary drive systems of the cable module cable 1602 is an indication of play in the respective cable module rotary drive systems 1602, which can shorten the life of the cable module. In other words, an increase in slack can decrease the number of uses remaining for the cable module 1602. Consequently, on each inspection of a cable module 1602, the inspection station 1600 and the load simulator 1650 can check the slack of the cable module and save the result in the memory of the cable module. The cable module's memory can store and timestamp the clearance readings. The cable processor and/or inspection station processor may determine a revised end-of-life threshold for the cable module, in terms of trips, for example, based on a model for the effect of slack on the number of remaining uses. A sample model is illustrated in Figure 26E. Dashed line 1690 shows a threshold limit for slack as a function of the number of shots of a cable module. Line 1691 represents the expected slack for the cable module as a function of usage (eg, trips). In this example, the slack threshold is reached (lines 1690 and 1691 cross) in about 500 shots. Since slack measurements can be tracked over time (and therefore number of shots), the cable processor and/or inspection processor can compare the slack measurements, indicated by the diamonds in Figure 26E, to determine that the cable module slack tends to reach the threshold in less than 500 shots, in this example about 370 shots. Once the review is complete, the updated trip threshold can be used in assessing the remaining service life of the cable module. For example, if the cable module has been fired 220 times, and its revised end-of-life is 370 shots due to slack, the processor may determine that the cable module has 150 shots remaining; or if 7 shots per procedure is assumed, then the cable module has 21 procedures left. Backlash can be tested for each cable module rotary drive system in this manner, and the one with the least life remaining can determine the cable module life remaining.

[00197] That said, if a gap smaller than expected is measured, then the shots needed to reach the cable module end-of-life threshold can be revised upwards, or increased. In fact, the end of life threshold for a cable module can be raised if any parameter and/or a combination of parameters indicates that the cable module is experiencing less wear than expected, for example. Correspondingly, the end of life threshold of a cable module can be lowered if any parameter and/or a combination of parameters indicates that the cable module is experiencing more wear than expected, for example. Furthermore, the various parameter thresholds disclosed herein can be fixed or adaptive. A threshold parameter can be tailored based on intrinsic and/or extrinsic information. For example, a cable module's control system can evaluate patterns or trends in parameter data and adapt a parameter threshold against the pattern or trend. In at least one case, the control system may establish a baseline of sensed parameter data and establish a threshold against that parameter line. In some cases, a cable module's control system may evaluate patterns or trends in the data obtained for a first parameter and adjust the threshold of a second parameter based on the evaluation of the first parameter data. In at least one case, the control system may establish a data line from sensed data of a first parameter, and establish a threshold for a second parameter relative to the baseline. Furthermore, many thresholds comprising two bands, i.e., a first band below the threshold and a second band above the threshold, are described here. The threshold itself can be part of the first or second track, depending on the circumstances. That said, a threshold as used in the present disclosure may comprise three ranges, i.e. a first range below a minimum value, a second range above a maximum value, and a third range between the minimum value and the maximum value. . If the detected data for a parameter is in the first range, the control system can perform a first action, and if the detected data for the parameter is in the second range, the control system can perform a second action, which may or may not be equal to the first action. If the sensed data for the parameter is in the third range, the control system may take a third action, which may include no action. The minimum value can be part of the first range or the third range, depending on the circumstances, and the maximum value can be part of the third range or the second range, depending on the circumstances. If data is detected in a first range, in at least one embodiment, the control system can adapt a threshold in one direction, and if data is detected in a second range, the control system can adapt the threshold in the opposite direction. , whereas if data is detected in a third band, the control system may not adapt the threshold, for example.

[00198] In another aspect, as shown in Figures 27A and 27B, the inspection station 1600 can accommodate both a cable module 1602 and one or more DSMs 1680, for example. Figure 27A illustrates such inspection station 1600 by itself; Figure 27B shows inspection station 1600 with both cable module 1602 and a DSM 1680 connected thereto. The inspection station processor may be in communication with the cable module processor and/or the DSM processor to download and upload data and information. As shown in Figure 27A, an inspection station 1600 that also supports DSMs can include rotary drives 1682, 1684 configured as rotary drives 1656, 1658 of cable module 1600. Inspection station 1600 can actuate station rotary drives inspection stations 1682, 1684 for testing the DSM 1680 drive systems. In still other embodiments, the DSM 1680 may have its own inspection station for performing various tests and/or data transfers, for example.

[00199] In view of the above, an inspection station 1600 can be used to perform various pre-procedure and/or post-procedure instrument processing tasks for a cable module and/or a DSM, such as, for example: • Determine and display a device identification (eg serial number) and/or model, and device state (eg end of life, locked, etc.); • Read/download data from the cable module 1602 memory, such as number of shots/cycles, performance parameters, cable software and/or DSM versions; • Based on device identification, define and update instructions and operating criteria for the cable module and/or the DSM, which the inspection station can retrieve from memory based on device identification; • Perform various electronic tests such as modular connection integrity tests, memory version tests, electronic system checks, throughput (read/write) checks, scheduled maintenance checks, warranty expiration checks, end of life checks life tests, system lockout checks, and/or internal battery life conditioning tests; • Carry out various physical tests, such as engine performance tests (with and/or without simulated loads, as described above), seal integrity tests, etc.; • Performance tests, such as comparing actual procedure data (downloaded from the cable module and/or DSM memory) with expected procedure data; • Reset locks on the cable module when necessary; • Dry the device; • Informing users (eg via the screen) that the device (cable and/or DSM module) is or is not suitable for continued use; • Update cable module and/or DSM software; • Write test results to cable module memory and/or DSM memory; and/or • Transmit cable and/or DSM performance and usage data to a remote computer system, via a USB or wireless connection (eg, Wi-Fi) for example.

[00200] The inspection station memory can store software and/or firmware that the inspection station runs to perform these various functions.

[00201] The inspection station and/or cable module screens can also make maintenance and service recommendations based on various data related to the use of the cable module. Based on usage data such as number of procedures, number of sterilizations, number and/or intensity of shots, and/or gear backlash, e.g. inspection station and/or module processors can determine whether various maintenance or service tasks should be performed or recommended in relation to the cable module and/or the DSM, and communicate these recommendations to a user via the inspection station and/or cable module screens . Maintenance and service recommendations can be performed and communicated to the user after a completed procedure, during a procedure, and/or at the beginning of a procedure.

[00202] Figures 28A and 28B are example process flows to make maintenance and/or service recommendations that can be performed by the cable module processor and/or by the inspection station processor by running a firmware and/or software in the associated memory of the processors. Figure 28A illustrates an exemplary process flow for the inspection station processor 442. In step 1800, after a procedure, the cable module is connected to the inspection station (see Figure 19A, for example), where the data from Cable module memory usage and performance are downloaded to the inspection station. This data can include a count of the number of procedures for the cable module; various ways to count the number of procedures are described in the present disclosure. The data may also include the number of shots per cable module, the intensity (e.g. force) of each shot, the shot force differential between the expected shot force and the actual shot force, the energy expended (accumulated ) by the cable module during the service life of the cable module, and/or gear backlash, for example.

[00203] In step 1802, based on the data, the inspection station processor determines if there is a need for cable module service. The inspection station processor may analyze usage and performance data in various ways as scheduled to determine if there is a need for service, and may make one or more service recommendations at step 1804 if such a need is determined. Service recommendations can be as broad as suggesting that the cable module be rebuilt, or as minor as lubricating certain parts, for example. Also, for example, a service check that the inspection station processor might perform at step 1802 is that for every N1 procedure and/or every S1 shot, or some combination of procedure and shot (e.g., N2 procedure and S2 shots), the cable module must be rebuilt. In such a case, if the inspection station processor determines that any of these thresholds have been met, in step 1804, the inspection station processor may control the inspection station screen to show that the cable module is to be rebuilt. Another service check that the inspection station processor may perform at step 1802 is that every S3 shots, the gears of the rotary drive systems must be lubricated. Other service checks that the inspection station can perform and recommend, if appropriate, include: electrical integrity checks for the cable module electrical contacts; communication system test; extended diagnostics of cable module electronics (eg, RAM and/or ROM integrity, processor operation, operating and idle current draw, operating temperatures of selected components, etc.); operation of indicators, screens and sensors; and/or battery issues such as number of cycles, balancing and/or testing, for example. Service checks can be performed on a battery to assess the condition of the battery. For example, the inspection station can assess whether the battery is near the end of its useful life, if rechargeable, or near a threshold for less than one shot remaining for a disposable battery, for example. Still other service checks include firing the device (in a diagnostic mode or another mode that allows firing without a DSM or cartridge) to monitor for abnormalities in a motor parameter (such as voltage or current, etc.). A damaged gear can cause a change in motor load, detectable through monitored motor parameters, which can indicate an internal problem that requires replacement. Also, a generally higher motor load can indicate a need for cleaning or lubrication, or damage to the inside of the device.

[00204] In step 1806, the inspection station processor can determine if any of the cable module components need to be checked. As before, the inspection station processor can analyze performance and usage data in various ways as scheduled to determine if verification of multiple cable module components is required, and can make single or multiple component verification recommendations in the step 1808 if it is determined that component verification is required. For example, if the inspection station processor determines that the gear backlash is beyond a pre-established threshold in step 1806, the inspection station processor may display a suggestion in step 1808 that the slewing drive system gears should be checked. Also, if the inspection station processor determines that the accumulated energy expended by the cable module is beyond a preset threshold in step 1806, the inspection station processor may display a suggestion in step 1808 that the motor (or motors) and/or the gears of rotary drive systems should be checked. Similarly, if the processor determines that a threshold number of shots (in the most recently completed procedure and/or during the lifetime of the cable module) exceeds an intensity threshold (e.g. force or electrical energy) pre-set in step 1806, the inspection station processor may display a suggestion at step 1808 that the motor (or motors) and/or gears of the rotary drive systems should be checked. The inspection station processor, through the screen, can also recommend that the DSM be checked in various modalities. For example, if the inspection station processor determines that a threshold number of shots in the most recently completed procedure exceeds a preset intensity threshold in step 1806, the inspection station processor may display a suggestion in step 1808 that the sharpness of the cutting tool on the end actuator should be checked, as a blunt cutting tool may require more force to execute a cutting stroke.

[00205] The cable module processor may also make service and/or component check determinations. Figure 28B illustrates an example process flow for cable module processor 2124. The process of Figure 28B is similar to that of Figure 28A except that, in step 1801, the cable module processor stores data from use and performance from processing its procedures and post-procedures, so that it can make determinations in steps 1802 and 1806 about whether service and/or component verification is required. The recommendations and suggestions displayed in steps 1804 and 1808 may be on the cable module screen and/or, in the case where the cable module is connected to the inspection station and there is a data connection between them, the module processor The cable module can communicate the recommendations to the inspection station processor so that the inspection station screen can display the recommendations instead of or in addition to displaying them on the cable module screen.

[00206] As shown in Figures 27A and 27B, a DSM 1680 can also be connected to an inspection station 1600. In such an arrangement, the DSM processor and/or the inspection station processor can make service verification determinations and component based on usage and performance data stored in DSM memory.

[00207] To this end, Figure 35 is a flowchart that illustrates steps that can be performed with the inspection stations described here. In step 2200, a physician performs a surgical procedure with the surgical instrument comprising a cable module and one of the DSMs. As described here, the cable module memory can store procedure and usage data for the entire procedure, such as motor power and energy levels, motor torque, and/or timestamps for the actuation. of various triggers, for example. After the procedure, in step 2202, the clinician may disconnect the DSM from the cable module and remove the removable battery pack so that the cable module can be prepared for use in a subsequent procedure by, in step 2204, connecting the cable module to the inspection station, as shown in the present disclosure, for example. At step 2206, the inspection station may download (or read) the usage and procedural data from the cable module memory. The inspection station may also download identification data for the cable module, which the inspection station processor may use to determine the cable module type and/or configuration in step 2208, which the inspection station can display on your screen.

[00208] In step 2210, the inspection station can define the inspection programs and inspection criteria for the cable module based on its type and configuration. For example, the inspection station memory can store the inspection programs that must be run for each cable module type and configuration, as well as the criteria for the inspections. Based on the type and configuration of the cable module resolved by the inspection station in step 2208, the inspection station may trigger and/or define the appropriate inspection programs and criteria to be used for the cable module. For example, in step 2212, the inspection module may dry the cable module components, as described here in conjunction with Figures 25A through 25E, for example. Also, at step 2214, seal integrity tests may be performed, as described herein in conjunction with Figures 24A and 24B, for example. In step 2216, electronic integrity tests of the cable module can be performed. These tests may include testing that electrical connections exist between the appropriate components, and for the cable module's data processing components, that the protocols and connections for transmitting data are working. In step 2218, functional and/or physical testing of the cable module may be performed. For example, the engine (or engines) and/or rotary drive systems can be tested (eg driven) to ensure they are working properly. In step 2220, cable module locks that need to be reset after a procedure can be reset. In step 2222, further necessary conditioning of the cable module can be performed. This conditioning may include any other conditioning necessary to prepare the cable module for a subsequent surgical procedure, and/or the execution of any service recommendations identified by the inspection station. In step 2224, the cable module can be released from the inspection station, where it can be used in a subsequent surgical procedure (or sterilized prior to use in a subsequent procedure). The inspection station can "release" the cable module by indicating on the inspection station screen that it can be removed, for example.

[00209] As shown in Figures 27A and 27B, a DSM can also be connected to such an inspection station after its use in a surgical procedure for the purpose of inspecting the DSM. A process similar to that illustrated in Figure 35 can be used for the DSM connected to the inspection station to prepare the DSM for a subsequent procedure.

[00210] Several steps illustrated in Figure 35 can be performed in different orders or simultaneously, and the steps illustrated in Figure 35 do not necessarily need to be performed in the order illustrated in Figure 35, although this is possible. For example, electronic integrity tests (step 2216) can be performed before the seal integrity test (step 2214), etc.

[00211] Figures 36 and 37 are flowcharts that illustrate exemplary steps involved in sterilizing a cable module and tracking the number of times it is used/sterilized. In Figure 36, the process starts at step 2300, where the cable module (and a DSM) are used in a surgical procedure. After the procedure, in step 2302, a post-operative cleaning of the cable module can be performed, which may entail a manual cleaning of the cable module, for example. Thereafter, in step 2304, the cable module can be decontaminated, using, for example, an automatic washer. In step 2306, the cable module can be dried in a clean room, using heat and/or air, for example. At step 2308, the cable module may be connected to an inspection station, such as the inspection stations described herein in connection with Figures 12A to 12C, 19A, 25A to 25E, 26A to 26C, and/or 27A and 27B, by example.

[00212] In step 2310, the inspection station can query or interrogate the cable module to determine whether the sterilization switch (for example, switch 344, see Figures 11E to 11I) was activated or otherwise was in the state that indicates its anterior placement on a sterilization tray as shown above in Figures 11E through 11I. If the sterilization tray switch is in the activated or actuated state, in step 2311, the sterilization count is incremented and the switch state is reset. Then, in step 2312, the inspection station can determine if the threshold sterilization count for the cable module has been reached, as described here. If the sterilization count has been reached, at step 2314, any of the end-of-life actions described here for the cable module can be performed.

[00213] Conversely, if the threshold has not yet been reached, the process can proceed to step 2316, in which the cable module is prepared for sterilization, for example, by positioning the cable module in its corresponding sterilization tray (see Figures 11E to 11I, for example) and/or positioning the sterilization covers over it (see Figures 20A to 20D, for example), which, in each case, can activate the sterilization trigger in step 2318 The cable module can be sterilized in step 2320, where it can be stored and later transported to an operating room in step 2322 for use in a subsequent procedure in step 2300.

[00214] Again referring to step 2310, if the sterilization trigger is not activated or its state has changed, you may need to physically inspect the cable module in step 2324.

[00215] The example process flow in Figure 37 is similar to that in Figure 36, except for the fact that after the procedure in step 2300, the cable module can be reactivated to determine whether its sterilization status flag (set by the processor of cable module when switch 344 is activated, see Figures 11E to 11I) is set in step 2310. In this case, the sterilization count can be updated, and the sterilization state reset.

[00216] As mentioned above, the cable module battery pack can be removed from the cable module after a surgical procedure so that it can be used in the same or another similarly configured cable module in a procedure subsequent, typically after recharge. Figures 29A to 29D illustrate a charging station 1700 for recharging battery packs 1702. Battery packs 1702 are inserted into receptacles 1704 defined in charging station 1700, shown in the side views of Figures 29B and 29C, so that when battery packs 1702 are inserted, their respective power terminals contacting corresponding charging terminals 1708 at the bottom of receptacles 1704 to charge the respective battery packs 1702. The illustrated charging station 1700 can simultaneously charge two battery packs, although in other arrangements a charging station may have receptacles for storing and charging a greater or lesser number of battery packs.

[00217] The charging station 1700 may include a screen 1709 that displays the status of the battery packs 1702 in terms of the charging process, such as "charging" or "charged/ready to use", for example. For battery packs being charged, the display can show how far along the charging process has been and/or how far it is to go. Text and/or images can be used to indicate state of charge, such as a volume and/or other type of fractional indicator that indicates the amount of charge in the battery pack (e.g. 40% charged, 50% charged, etc. ).

[00218] As shown in Figures 29B and 29C, the receptacle 1704 can be sized so that the end portion of the battery pack 1702 that is inserted into the receptacle fits easily (e.g., a zero insertion force connection). Charging station 1700 may include means for detecting when battery pack 1702 is inserted into the receptacle. For example, as shown in the block diagram of Figure 29D, charging station 1700 may include a pressure switch 1720, in communication with charging station processor 1722, at the bottom of receptacle 1704 that is actuated when the battery pack 1702 is entered. Additionally or alternatively, the charging station processor 1722 may detect the insertion of a battery pack 1702 when a charging station data terminal 1712 makes a data connection with the battery pack data terminal 1710. In either case , when the battery pack 1702 is inserted into the receptacle 1704 of the charging station 1700 for charging, the charging station 1700 may temporarily attach the battery pack 1702 to the charging station 1700 so that the battery pack 1702 cannot be removed prematurely (for example, before loading and/or a full load). In one arrangement, as shown in Figures 29B and 29C, this is accomplished by a screw 1724 in the bottom of the receptacle 1704 of the charging station 1700 which is automatically threaded into a corresponding opening 1726 in the bottom of the battery pack 1702 which is sized and provided of threads to receive screw 1724.

[00219] Figure 29D is a simplified block diagram of the charging station 1700 and a battery pack 1702 in accordance with various arrangements. Assuming the charging station 1700 is powered by an AC power source, the charging station 1700 may include an AC/DC converter 1730 for converting AC voltage to DC voltage, and a voltage regulator 1732 for converting the AC voltage. DC at the desired charging voltage and/or current to charge the battery cells 1734 of the battery pack 1702. The charging station 1700 may include a charge controller circuit 1736 for controlling the voltage regulator 1732 based on detected parameters of the charging operation, such as current, voltage, and/or temperature, which can be detected by the charging station's detection circuit 1738. For example, when a battery pack 1702 is charged under normal charging conditions, the charge controller circuit 1736 can control the voltage regulator 1732 to charge at a constant current until the Li-Ion or Lipo battery cells 1734 reach a specified voltage per cell (Vpc). Then, the charge controller circuit 1736 can hold the cells at voltage Vpc until the charging current drops to X% of the initial charge rate (eg 10%), after which the charging process can terminate. Other charging regimes, suited to the battery technology, can be realized.

[00220] The push switch 1720 can detect the insertion of the battery pack 1702 into the receptacle 1704 of the charging station 1700 and, when activated, send a signal to the charging station processor 1722. The charging station processor 1722 can , in response, send a control signal to a link actuator 1740, such as a linear actuator, which guides the screw 1724 into the threaded opening of the battery pack 1726. The link actuator 1740 may be powered by a second 1740 voltage regulator 1742 which can power, in addition to the connecting actuator 1740, the other electronic components of the charging station 1700.

[00221] In addition to the above, the battery pack 1702 may include a data terminal 1710 that, when the battery pack 1702 is inserted into the receptacle 1704, mates with a corresponding data terminal 1712 of the charging station 1700. docking station processor 1722 may have an internal or external memory 1744 that stores firmware and/or software to be executed by docking station processor 1722. Upon execution of the firmware and/or software, docking station processor 1722 can (i) controlling display 1709, (ii) controlling aspects of the battery cell charging process by communicating with charge controller 1736, and/or (iii) exchanging data with battery pack processor 1750 via terminals of data 1710, 1712. As described herein, the battery pack electronic circuit may also include a memory 1752 that stores firmware and/or software to run. used by the 1750 battery pack processor as a battery management system (BMS). Battery pack 1702 may also comprise sensors 1754 for detecting conditions related to battery pack 1702, such as wetting and/or humidity, for example, as described above. The data terminal 1712 of the charging station 1700 may also supply low-level power to the battery pack processor 1750. The charging station 1700 may also include a wireless communication module 1755 in communication with the processor 1722 which may communicate with remote devices via wireless communication links (e.g. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LTE, etc.). In this way, the charging station 1700 can wirelessly report to remote computing systems (e.g., servers, desktops, tablet computers, laptops, smartphones, etc.) the state of charge and other data related to the arrays. of batteries 1702 installed in charging station 1700 (e.g. near end of life, temperature). The charging station may also include a port for a wired connection (e.g., USB-type port) so that charge and other data related to the battery packs 1702 can be downloaded from the charging station 1700 to the device. connected. In this way, the surgical team and/or battery pack supplier can receive such information.

[00222] In one aspect, to extend the operating time of the battery as well as its useful life, for example, the battery cells comprising the battery pack 1702 can be rebalanced from time to time during the useful life of the battery pack batteries 1702. Figure 29E is a diagram of a process flow that may be performed by charging station processor 1722 (by executing firmware/software stored in memory 1744) to rebalance battery cells. At step 1760, charging station processor 1722 may detect the insertion of a battery pack 1702 into inspection station 1700 for charging based on, for example, the signal from pressure switch 1720 at receptacle 1704 and/or by some other suitable medium. At step 1762, charging station processor 1722 may actuate link actuator 1740 to temporarily secure battery pack 1702 to charging station 1700 during the charging (and/or discharging) session. At step 1764, charging station processor 1722 may exchange data with battery pack processor 1750. Among other things, battery pack processor 1750 may exchange a record of the times that battery pack 1702 has been charged and the times your cells were balanced. At step 1765, charging station 1700 can quickly complete charging the battery cells if the battery pack is needed before a full charge or discharge cycle can be performed. The fast charge in step 1765 could be, for example, to simply charge the battery cells at a constant current to bring them to the specified Vpc level or a fraction thereof. In step 1766, charging station processor 1722 can determine if the battery cells need to be rebalanced. In various aspects, cells may be equilibrated every N times they are charged, where N is an integer greater than or equal to one, and preferably greater than one. If it is not time to rebalance the cells, the process advances to step 1768 where the battery cells are recharged and in step 1770 released for use, such as by disabling the connecting actuator 1740 so that the battery pack 1702 can be removed from the receptacle. On the other hand, in step 1766, if it is determined that the battery cells need to be rebalanced, the process may proceed to step 1772 where said cells are discharged before being charged in step 1768. The cells may be discharged in step 1768. 1772 to a suitable (low) voltage level.

[00223] As shown in Figure 29A, the charging station 1700 may include an emergency release button 1780 for each battery pack charging receptacle, a single emergency release button 1780 that releases only the battery pack 1702 whichever has the highest charge (and therefore best suited for emergency use). In various aspects, charging station processor 1722 may initiate one or more actions when emergency release button 1780 is pressed for a particular battery pack 1702 when charging of that battery is in progress. For example, charging station processor 1722 can signal link actuator 1740 to unscrew battery pack 1702 so that it can be removed. Also, prior to such mechanical release of the battery pack 1702, the charging station processor 1722 may instruct the charge controller to take action to accelerate fast charging of the battery pack 1702. For example, the charging station processor 1722 may instruct the charge controller 1736 to use a charge profile that charges the battery cells 1734 faster for a brief period of time, even though such short-term, fast charging may not charge the battery cells to full capacity. or extend the longevity of battery cells. Common charge profile stages for charging lithium-ion battery cells include (i) trickle charge, (ii) constant current charge, and (iii) constant voltage charge. Charge controller circuit 1736 may switch to one of these short-term (eg constant current charge) profiles to provide battery pack 1702 with as much additional charge as possible in the shortest amount of time. Also, charging station processor 1722 can coordinate increasing the charging voltage available to charge the battery cells by making other power sources available, such as from other receptacles and/or charge storage devices (e.g., supercapacitors or charge cells). battery) in the charging station 1700. Data about such charging procedures may also be recorded in the battery pack memory.

[00224] Figure 30A illustrates another exemplary charge/discharge determination process that the charging station processor 1722 may perform, in addition to or in lieu of the process shown in Figure 29E. The process in Figure 30A recognizes that discharging surgical instrument battery packs is often beneficial to their longevity, but that battery packs should not be discharged if there is sufficient time to discharge them before they are needed in a procedure. surgical. The process of Figure 30A begins in step 1780 where a "first" set of rechargeable batteries is inserted into one of the charging receptacles 1740 of the charging station 1700. In step 1782, the battery pack usage data obtained from the first set of batteries are downloaded to the charging station's memory, which may include the remaining current capacity of the battery. Although not shown in Figure 30A, the first set of batteries could also be attached to the charging station when inserted (see Figures 29B and 29C, for example). At step 1784, charging station 1700 may immediately charge the first set of batteries in case it is needed in an ongoing or imminent procedure. In step 1786, data about charging the first set of batteries in step 1784 is written to the memory of the first set of batteries. This data may include, for example, timestamps for the start and end of the charging step, as well as the starting and ending battery capacity.

[00225] In step 1788, the charging station processor checks the charge/discharge record for the first set of batteries, and if the first set of batteries has been fully discharged since the last procedure, the process proceeds to step 1790 in which the first set of batteries is ready for use in a procedure. At this stage, the charging station screen may indicate that the first set of batteries is ready for use. On the other hand, if it is determined in step 1788 that the first set of batteries has not been completely discharged since its last procedure, the process may proceed to step 1792 in which the charging station processor may determine if there is at least one other set of fully charged batteries in their charging receptacles. In this case, in step 1794 the first set of batteries can be fully discharged to extend its longevity and also because there is another fully charged set of batteries ready to use if needed. When the discharge of the first set of batteries is complete, at step 1796 the discharge data (e.g., start and end timestamps, and start and end capabilities) may be written to the memory of the first set of batteries so that the evaluation in step 1788 can be performed. Thereafter, the process may proceed to step 1784 where the battery cells of the first set of batteries are recharged, and the process repeats. If the first set of batteries has been discharged in step 1794 since the last procedure, from step 1788 the process will advance to step 1790 because another discharge of the battery cells is not necessary.

[00226] Modifications can be made to the process of Figure 30A. For example, initial load step 1784 could be deleted and/or moved between steps 1788 and 1790 and/or between steps 1792 and 1790, for example.

[00227] Figure 30B illustrates another exemplary charge/discharge determination process that the charging station processor 1722 can perform. The process of Figure 30B is similar to that of Figure 30A, except that in step 1783, after step 1782, charging station 1700 may fast charge the battery pack (e.g., briefly charge at a level lower than its full capacity), and record fast charge data in the battery pack memory. Then, in step 1788, as in Figure 30A, the charging station processor can determine if the battery pack has been fully discharged since the last procedure, and if so, in step 1789, then perform a full charge of the battery pack. , at which point the battery pack is ready for use (block 1790). On the other hand, at step 1788, if the charging station processor determines that the battery pack has not been fully discharged since the last procedure, the process may proceed to step 1792 where the charging station determines whether another battery pack inserted in one of its receptacles 1704 is ready for use (eg, fully or properly charged). Otherwise, the first set of batteries can be fully charged in step 1789. However, if another set of batteries is fully or properly charged and ready for use, then in step 1794 the first set of batteries can be discharged (with data on discharge being stored in the battery pack memory). After complete discharge, the process can proceed to step 1789 so that the first set of batteries can then be charged.

[00228] In various embodiments, the charging station processor 1722 can monitor and store the times at which the various battery cells are inserted into it, as indications of when procedures are being performed by the hospital or surgical unit where the charging station loading is located. Charging station processor 1722 can be programmed to determine times of day when the hospital or surgical unit is typically performing procedures involving instruments utilizing such battery packs and when it is not. In particular, charging station processor 1722 can determine a statistical probability that the hospital or surgical unit is performing a procedure involving instruments utilizing such battery packs during non-overlapping time increments spanning a 24 hour period, such as one-hour increments, for example. Thus, for full charging of battery packs (for example, in step 1789 of Figure 30B), the charging station can initiate such full charging steps when there is a low probability of an ongoing process, especially in cases where there is already a there is another fully charged battery pack ready to use. That is, for example, in Figure 30B, the full charge at step 1789 after the discharge at step 1792 need not immediately follow the discharge at step 1792, but could instead be scheduled for a period of time where there is a low probability of an ongoing process, as determined and programmed by the loading station processor 1722. Additionally, hospital staff or the surgical unit may input as input to loading station 1700, via user interface 1709, for example, data about when procedures should be performed and/or the types of procedures (or the amount of charge needed for the procedures) that should be performed. This data may be stored in charging station memory 1744 and used by charging station processor 1722 to determine when battery packs should be charged.

[00229] In a system that charges and discharges batteries, there can be a significant amount of energy wasted in the loss of energy from the cell (or cells) under maintenance in the form of heat because typically the charge of a battery cell to be discharged is drained through a resistive load. Accordingly, the charging station may include fans and/or heat sinks to help dissipate heat. In other aspects, the charging station may use the charge in a cell to be discharged to charge another cell at the charging station or store it in another charge storage device. Figure 31 is a simplified diagram of a circuit 1900 for discharging batteries in this manner. During charging of the "first" battery cell 1902, the power supply/voltage regulator 1904 is connected to the first battery cell 1902 by closing switch S1, with all other switches (S2, S3, and S4 S5) open. To discharge the first battery cell 1902 through resistor 1906, switches S2 and S3 are closed and switches S1, S4 and S5 are opened. Diode 1903 controls the direction in which current flows from first battery cell 1902. To discharge first battery cell 1902 to energy storage device 1908 (e.g., supercapacitor or another station internal battery cell charging and not just ordinarily for use in a surgical instrument), the switch S2 is closed and the other switches S1, S3, S4 and S5 are open. Diode 1903 controls the direction in which current flows to energy storage device 1908. To charge the first battery cell 1902 with the charge in energy storage device 1908, switch S5 is closed and the remaining switches S1, S2, S3 and S4 are open. Diode 1905 controls the direction in which current flows into the first battery cell 1902. To charge another battery cell 1910 with the first battery cell 1902, switches S2 and S4 are closed and switches S1, S3 and S5 are opened. Switches S1, S2, S3, S4 and S5 may be controlled by charge station processor 1722 and/or charge controller 1736.

[00230] Figure 32 shows a circuit for charging and discharging the first set of batteries 1902 that is similar to that of Figure 31, with the exception that the configuration of Figure 32 includes a set of battery cells 1920 that can be used to charge the first battery cell 1902. In the illustrated arrangement, the array 1920 includes three battery cells 1922, 1924, 1926, although in other arrangements the array 1920 may include more or fewer battery cells. Battery cells 1922, 1924 and 1926 in pack 1920 may be internal battery cells of the charging station and/or other battery packs inserted into the charging station. Cells 1922, 1924, 1926 in pack 1920 can be used, for example, to quickly charge the first set of batteries 1902, as in a situation where a spare battery pack is needed in an ongoing process. In the illustrated arrangement, cells 1922, 1924, and 1926 in array 1920 can be connected in series or parallel to provide higher voltage (when connected in series) or higher current (when connected in parallel). To connect cells 1922, 1924 and 1926 in series, switches S7 are closed and switches S6 are open. To connect cells 1922, 1924 and 1926 in parallel, switches S6 are closed and switches S7 are open. Each cell may have an associated resistor R1, R2, R3 respectively, for example to provide a current source when connected in parallel.

[00231] In one aspect, again referring to Figure 29A, if a physician is in the middle of a procedure and needs a new set of batteries to complete the procedure, the physician (or his/her assistant) can select and remove from the charging 1700 one of the battery packs that is fully charged and ready for use, which may be indicated on the display 1709 of the charging station 1700. If none of the battery packs 1702 are indicated as ready for use, the clinician may press the emergency release 1780, for example, which may release the battery pack 1702 currently in the charging station 1700 with the greatest amount of charge, as determined by the charge controller 1736 and/or the charging station processor 1722, so that the partially charged battery pack can be inserted into the cable module being used in the procedure. Charging station 1700 may also include visual indicators to indicate which battery pack 1702 is being released in an emergency so that it is clear which battery pack must be removed from the charging station for insertion into the surgical instrument. For charging stations 1700 that include means for securing battery pack 1702 to charging station 1700 during charging, such as screw 1724 in the arrangement of Figures 29A to 29C, activation of emergency release button 1780 can cause the connecting means disconnect (or release) the appropriate battery pack 1702, as described in the present invention. At about the same time, charging station 1722 can act to rapidly charge the selected battery pack 1702 over a short period of time, preferably to provide it with at least enough charge to complete one or two shots. As described herein, charging station processor 1722 can, in conjunction with charge controller circuitry 1736, change the charge profile (e.g., constant current or constant voltage charging), charge the battery pack with a supercapacitor (or supercapacitors) 1908, and/or charging the battery pack with one or more other battery cells (which may be connected in series or parallel as described herein). In various arrangements, battery pack 1702 is not released (e.g., by disconnection of screw 1724) until short-term charging brings battery pack 1702 to a charge level or threshold charge that is sufficient to complete one or two shots.

[00232] In various aspects, the charging station can also be configured to facilitate the proper positioning of the battery packs in the charging station for charging and/or to improve the engagement between the electrical contacts between the battery pack and the charging terminals of the charging station to thereby increase the efficiency of the charging process. For example, the cavities (or receptacles) in the charging station can have multiple sets of terminals, so that no matter how the battery pack is inserted into the cavity/receptacle, the charging terminals of the battery pack make contact with the charging station charging terminals. Figures 33A and 33B illustrate top views of a battery pack 2000 and a charging station 2002, respectively, wherein the battery pack 2000 has a square cross-sectional shape and the cavities/receptacles 2004 of the charging station 2002 are sized to receive such a battery pack 2000 with square cross-sectional shape. The illustrated charging station 2002 has two cavities/receptacles 2004, but in other embodiments the charging station 2002 may have one cavity/receptacle or more than two cavities/receptacles. As shown in Figure 33A, the battery pack 2000 has a positive terminal 2006 and a negative terminal 2008 with which the charging station terminals contact to charge the battery packs. In the illustrated arrangement, terminals 2006, 2008 are not centered on top of battery pack 2000. As this type of battery pack 2000 can be inserted into one of the square shaped cavities/receptacles in one of four configurations (each turn of 90 degrees, and assuming that the side of battery pack 2000 with terminals 2006 to 2008 is always facing down), each cavity/receptacle can have four pairs of charging terminals positioned therein, so that regardless of the As the battery pack 2000 is rotated when it is inserted into the cavity/receptacle 2004, the terminals of the off-center battery pack 2006 to 2008 will make contact with one of the pairs of charging station terminals 2010. Each pair of terminals of charging station 2010 is connected to the charging circuit of the charging station, but only the pair 2010 that contacts the battery pack terminals 2006 to 2008 will have a complete circuit such that charging current can flow to the battery pack 2000. In another arrangement, as shown in Figures 34A and 34B, one of the terminals of the battery pack could be in the center of the battery pack 2000 In the illustrated case, the negative terminal 2008 is in the center with the positive terminal 2006 to one side; however, the opposite arrangement may be used in another embodiment. The charging station cavities/receptacles could correspondingly have a terminal 2014 in the center for contacting the negative terminal 2008 of the battery pack 2000, and four terminals 2016 on either side of the center terminal 2014 for contacting the positive terminal 2006 regardless of how the battery pack is inserted into cavity/receptacle 2000. For battery packs having other geometries, a smaller or larger number of pairs of terminals in the cavities/receptacles (such as two pairs to one rectangular battery pack).

[00233] As discussed above, a surgical instrument may include a battery pack that can be attached to and/or detached from the surgical instrument. Such handling of the battery pack can increase the chances of it being damaged. For example, the battery pack may inadvertently fall during mounting on the surgical instrument and/or transporting it to a charging station. As discussed in more detail below, the battery pack can be configured to protect the battery pack enclosure, battery cells and/or power supply circuit in the event that the battery pack is inadvertently dropped.

[00234] Now referring to Figure 38, a battery pack, such as the battery pack 5000, for example, may comprise a battery compartment 5010, and a plurality of internal components 5030 including at least one battery cell 5031 and/or or a power supply circuit positioned within battery compartment 5010. The at least one battery cell 5031 may comprise a lithium-ion battery, for example. Battery pack 5000 also comprises one or more electrical contacts 5011 configured to transmit electrical energy supplied by at least one battery cell 5031 to the surgical instrument. Battery pack 5000 further comprises one or more alignment features 5012 configured to assist a user in properly mounting the battery pack to the surgical instrument. Alignment features 5012 comprise slots, for example, that can be aligned with projections extending from the surgical instrument. Alignment features 5012 are arranged symmetrically around the perimeter of battery compartment 5010. Although not illustrated, other embodiments are contemplated in which alignment features 5012 comprise a non-symmetrical configuration that allows battery pack 5000 to be attached to the instrument surgery in just one orientation. Battery pack 5000 further comprises a locking mechanism 5040 configured to secure battery pack 5000 to the surgical instrument during use. When the battery pack 5000 is attached to the surgical instrument, the battery pack 5000 can transmit electrical energy to electrical receiving contacts of the surgical instrument.

[00235] The battery compartment 5010 can act as a container configured to house the internal components 5030 and/or act as a support structure configured to support various components thereon. Functioning as a container and/or a support structure, battery compartment 5010 may be rigid to support internal components 5030 positioned therein. Battery compartment 5010 may be comprised of a plastic material, for example. In certain cases, the internal compartment 5010 is comprised of an elastomeric material, for example. Referring again to Figure 38, the battery compartment includes a top face, a bottom face 5016, a plurality of side faces 5015, and a plurality of corners 5014. Bottom face 5016 may be associated with electrical contacts 5011. Side faces 5015 and corners 5014 are configured to surround internal components 5030.

[00236] Several embodiments discussed here pertain to protecting a battery pack for use with a surgical instrument. Referring again to Figure 38, the battery pack 5000 comprises a radial and/or vertical bolster configured to protect the battery compartment 5010, internal components 5030 and/or electrical contacts 5011. The radial and/or vertical bolster may comprise a shock-absorbing layer, for example. In various cases, the shock absorbing layer may surround the battery compartment 5010 to absorb an impact force that is applied to a side face 5015, a bottom face 5016 and/or a corner 5014 of the battery compartment 5010. In addition to or in lieu of the foregoing, a shock absorbing layer is housed within the battery compartment 5010. Also, in addition to or in place of the foregoing, the battery pack may further comprise an outer compartment for additional protection . The external compartment can be configured to accommodate the 5010 battery compartment and shock absorbing layer.

[00237] A means for protecting the battery pack 5000 is illustrated in detail in Figure 38A, for example, comprising a battery compartment, or internal compartment 5010, and a shock absorbing layer 5020. As discussed above, the compartment 5010 be formed of a rigid material 5010 that can support the internal components 5030 of the battery pack 5000. The shock absorbing layer 5020 can include a lattice structure 5022 that comprises a plurality of cells 5024. The cells 5024 can decrease density of the shock absorbing layer 5020. Cells 5024 can have an open cell structure and/or a closed cell structure. Furthermore, the grating structure 5022 may comprise one or more layers of grating. For example, the raster structure 5022 can include a first 5022, or inner, raster layer and a second, or outer, raster layer.

[00238] The grid structure 5022 further comprises a plurality of struts 5025 designed to deflect and/or bend under pressure. If the battery pack 5000 is dropped, an impact force is absorbed by the compression of the cells 5024 and the bending and/or deformation of the struts 5025. Therefore, the shock absorbing layer 5020 can absorb shock and/or vibrational energy instead of of relying on battery compartment 5010 to absorb energy, which could, in some circumstances, result in damage to internal components 5030 of battery pack 5000. In various cases, shock absorbing layer 5020 may comprise a structure similar to foam and/or an elastomeric material, for example.

[00239] In several cases, again referring to Figure 38, cells 5024 are arranged in rows, for example, with an inner row of 5026 cells, an intermediate row of 5027 cells and an outer row of 5028 cells. inner row of cells 5026 may comprise a flat wall 5026a. Cells 5026 are oriented so that flat walls 5026a of cells 5026 are at least substantially parallel with a side face 5015 of battery compartment 5010. Each cell of the outer row of cells 5028 may comprise a flat wall 5028a. Cells 5028 are oriented so that the flat walls 5028a of the cells 5028 are at least substantially parallel with an outer surface 5029 of the shock absorbing layer 5020. Orient the flat walls 5026a, 5028a of each cell of the inner row 5026 and the row external 5028 in this way can create a more shock resistant 5020 shock absorbing layer. Shock absorbing layer 5020 may comprise corner portions positioned proximal to corners 5014 of battery compartment 5010 that may absorb an impact force applied to a corner 5014 of battery compartment 5010. Corner portions 5020 are not connected to each other others; however, embodiments are contemplated in which corner portions 5020 could be connected to each other.

[00240] In various cases, battery pack 5000 comprises a plurality of shock absorbing elements 5020. Shock absorbing elements 5020 are positioned to protect corners 5014 of battery pack 5000. In various cases, a force of impact may be more concentrated at corners 5014, which may increase the risk of damage to battery compartment 5010 and/or internal components 5030. Shock absorbing elements 5020 comprise end portions 5021 that extend beyond a face of bottom 5016 of battery compartment 5010 to prevent damage to electrical contacts 5011, for example, and still protect battery pack 5000. If battery pack 5000 is dropped in an orientation such that bottom face 5016 is at least substantially parallel to the ground, one or more of the end portions 5021 can absorb the impact force and dissipate the impact energy.

[00241] It may be preferred that a battery pack be usable after experiencing an impact force, as occurs when battery pack 5000 is inadvertently dropped. In such cases, the shock absorbing elements 5020 are configured to allow the battery pack 5000 to still fit properly into the battery receiving portion of the surgical instrument and still transmit electrical energy to the instrument's receiving electrical contacts. surgical even if the 5000 battery pack has been dropped. Shock absorbing elements 5020 may comprise deformable zones configured to deform when subjected to an impact force. In at least one case, a deformable zone may not permanently deform, or at least substantially permanently deform, if the impact force is below a deformation force threshold. In such cases, the deformable zone can permanently deform only if the impact force equals or exceeds the deformation force threshold. The crumple zones can limit the direction of deformation of the shock absorbing elements 5020 toward the center of the battery pack 5000. Such inward deformation can preserve the ability of the battery pack 5000 to fit within the battery receiving portion of the instrument surgical instrument by preventing outward deformation that could cause the battery pack 5000 to take on a shape that does not fit the battery-receiving portion of the surgical instrument.

[00242] In various cases, the shock absorbing elements 5020 may experience an excessive amount of deformation requiring replacement of the shock absorbing elements 5020. If the shock absorbing elements 5020 need to be replaced, the battery pack 5000 may be configured so that the user of the surgical instrument can remove the damaged shock absorbers from the battery pack 5000 and then attach serviceable shock absorbers to the pack. As discussed in more detail below, it may be preferred that the shock absorbing elements 5020 can be replaced in a timely manner. Minimizing the time required to replace the 5020 shock absorbing elements can be important when introducing another task into a surgical operation.

[00243] Mounting the shock absorbing elements 5020 on the battery pack 5000 may be necessary when the shock absorbing elements 5020 need to be replaced. In various cases, shock absorbing elements 5020 comprise one or more protrusions 5023 configured to slide and/or wedge into corresponding slots 5013 in battery compartment 5010. Slots 5013 are configured to receive protrusions 5023 of shock absorbing elements 5023. new and/or usable shock absorbers in case the 5020 shock absorbers need to be replaced. In various cases, the protrusions 5023 and the slots 5013 may comprise a press fit between them, which may allow the protrusions 5023 to slide within the slots 5013 along the corners of the compartment 5010. In at least one case, the protrusions 5023 and the slots 5013 may comprise a wedge fit therebetween. In various cases, shock absorbing elements 5020 can be attached to battery compartment 5010 in a snap-fit mode. In at least one instance, the battery compartment 5010 may comprise apertures configured to receive the protrusions 5023 in a snap-fit manner. In certain instances, protrusions 5023 may enter slots 5013 radially in a snap fit fashion. In addition to or in lieu of the foregoing, shock absorbing elements 5020 can be secured to housing 5010 using an adhesive, for example.

[00244] In various cases, the battery pack 5000 further comprises a shock absorbing cap 5050. The shock absorbing cap 5050 is positioned at an outer end 5002 of the battery pack 5000. The shock absorbing cap comprises a shoulder 5051 configured to contact the surgical instrument when the 5000 battery pack is fully seated in the surgical instrument. Shoulder 5051 can act as a stop, for example, and can define the fully seated position of battery pack 5000. In many cases, shoulder 5051 is configured to adjoin shock absorbing elements 5020. battery pack 5000 is attached to the surgical instrument, the shock absorbing cap 5050 can protect the battery pack 5000 and/or the surgical instrument if the surgical instrument is dropped in an orientation such that the top face is at least substantially parallel to the ground on impact. On the other hand, if the battery pack 5000 is not attached to the surgical instrument, the shock absorbing cap 5050 can still protect the battery pack 5000 if the battery pack 5000 is dropped in an orientation such that the top face is at least substantially parallel to the ground.

[00245] A partial cross-sectional view of the battery pack 5000 is illustrated in Figure 39. The shock absorbing cap 5050 comprises a lattice structure, or cell structure, comprising a plurality of cells 5052. The shock absorbing cap 5052 The shock absorber 5050 may comprise a material similar to that of the shock absorbing layer 5020. A denser grating arrangement 5055 is used near the outer edges 5054 of the battery pack 5000, which can dissipate a more concentrated impact force. The shock absorbing lid 5050 comprises a center portion 5053 comprising a vertical truss arrangement 5056 configured to absorb impact energy generated by the impact force applied to the center portion 5053. In various instances, the vertical truss arrangement 5056 is configured to dissipate a broadly applied impact force.

[00246] In various cases, the shock absorbing cap 5050 may comprise deformable zones configured to deform when an impact force is applied. The 5050 shock absorbing cover can be designed to use the crumple zones to prevent the 5000 battery pack from bouncing on the floor, for example, if the 5000 battery pack is dropped.

[00247] The 5050 shock absorbing cover is readily replaceable. In the event that the 5050 shock absorbing cap experiences an excessive amount of deformation that requires the 5050 shock absorbing cap to be replaced, the 5000 battery pack can be configured so that the user of the surgical instrument can remove the absorbing cap damaged shock absorber of the 5000 battery pack, and attach a usable shock absorbing cover.

[00248] In various cases, the shock absorbing elements 5020 can be connected by intermediate portions. The intermediate portions may be configured to protect the side faces 5015 and/or the alignment features 5012 of the battery compartment 5010. It should be noted that if an impact force is applied over the surface area of a side face 5015 of the compartment 5015 battery 5010, the voltage generated by the impact force would be less than the voltage that would be generated if the impact force were applied to a corner 5014 of the battery compartment 5010 that has a smaller surface area. Stated another way, the greater the surface area over which an impact force is distributed, the lower the stress and stress concentration. Therefore, it may not be necessary for the intermediate portions between the shock absorbing elements 5020 to be comprised of a composition that is as substantial as the shock absorbing elements 5020. In at least one case, as a result, the intermediate portions may comprise a thinner shock absorbing composition than the 5020 shock absorbing elements; however, various embodiments are contemplated in which the intermediate portions comprise a shock absorbing composition of the same thickness and/or thicker than the shock absorbing elements 5020.

[00249] Each of the shock absorbing elements 5020 of the battery pack 5000 comprises a similar construction; however, other embodiments are envisaged in which one or more of the shock absorbing elements 5020 may be different from the others. In at least such an occurrence, at least one of the shock absorbing elements 5020 may comprise an additional weight, such as a metal weight, for example, positioned therein, which may cause the battery pack 5000 to fall and remain in place. a specific orientation. Such an effect can also be achieved by placing one or more weights in battery compartment 5010, for example.

[00250] A battery pack 5100, which is similar to the battery pack 5000 in many respects, is shown in Figure 40. The battery pack 5100 may comprise a means for protecting the internal components 5030 of the battery pack 5100 from damage caused by impact shock and/or heat. Various means for protecting the 5100 battery pack against impact shock have been discussed earlier. Heat, which is represented by Q in Figure 40A, can penetrate battery compartment 5110 and can be absorbed by battery cells 5031 positioned within battery compartment 5110, for example.

[00251] It should be noted that heat flows from a higher temperature environment to a lower temperature environment. Under typical sterilization conditions, the 5100 battery pack is exposed to a high temperature and, as a result, heat flows from a sterilization chamber into the 5100 battery pack. In some circumstances, however, the 5100 battery pack may be inadequately sterilized and may be exposed to excessive temperature. If at least one of the battery cells 5031 absorbs and/or retains a harmful amount of heat Q, the battery cells 5031 can experience a "thermal runaway" event and fail.

[00252] Now referring to Figure 40A, the battery compartment 5110 comprises a heat reflective enclosure, or shield, 5111, a shock absorbing layer 5112, and a heat sink layer 5113. The reflective enclosure 5111 is configured to reflect and/or block the transfer of heat Q generated by poor sterilization, for example. In many cases, reflector housing 5111 may be comprised of a material with low thermal conductivity, such as a polymer and/or ceramic material, for example. A material with low thermal conductivity generally has a low rate of thermal expansion. A material with low thermal conductivity can also work well as an insulating layer. In any case, the reflective housing 5111 may comprise an outer reflective surface which may reflect heat from the battery pack 5100. The outer reflective surface may be comprised of a polished metal, such as polished aluminum, for example.

[00253] In addition to the above, heat sink layer 5113 is configured to absorb heat passing through reflector wrap 5111. Heat sink layer 5113 may also be configured to absorb heat generated by battery cells 5031 when they are being recharged, for example. In some cases, 5031 battery cells can generate an unusual amount of heat due to overcharging and/or overuse. In many cases, the heat sink layer 5113 may be comprised of a material that has a high thermal conductivity, such as a metal, for example. Any suitable material that has a high thermal conductivity can be used to absorb the heat generated by at least one 5031 battery cell. In addition, a material with high thermal conductivity typically has a high rate of thermal expansion.

[00254] In addition to the above, 5031 battery cells can expand when being charged. Expanding battery cells 5031 can push the heatsink layer 5113 outward. In addition, the 5113 heat sink layer can rapidly expand outward due to its high thermal expansion rate. This outward movement of the battery cells 5031 and the heat sink layer 5113 can push the shock absorbing layer 5112 towards the reflector shroud 5111 and apply pressure to the reflector shroud 5111. Such pressure can generate stress within the reflector shroud 5111 5111, in the heat sink layer 5113 and in the battery cells 5031, especially in embodiments where the reflector wrap 5111 is comprised of a material that has a lower rate of thermal expansion than the heat sink layer 5113. In some cases, the heat sink layer 5113 may expand more than the reflector wrap 5111 thereby creating additional stress on the reflector wrap 5111, the heat sink layer 5113, and the battery cells 5031.

[00255] The shock absorbing layer 5112 is configured to allow expansion of the battery cells 5031 while preventing damage to the battery compartment 5110. Acting as a degree of freedom for the battery compartment 5110, the layer of shock absorber 5112 may expand and/or contract to control the expansion and/or contraction of the battery cells 5031 by allowing the heat sink layer 5113 and the at least one battery cell 5031 to expand and/or from contracting due to heat transfer while maintaining the support capacity of the battery pack 5100. In many cases, the expansion and contraction of the shock absorption layer 5112 can prevent damage to the battery compartment 5110. The shock absorption layer 5110 Shock 5112 can absorb thermal shocks as well as impact shocks.

[00256] With reference to Figures 41 and 42, a surgical instrument system 5300 includes a handle 5310 that can be used with a drive shaft assembly selected from a plurality of drive shaft assemblies. In addition to the above, one or more such driveshaft assemblies may include a staple cartridge, for example. Cable 5310 comprises a housing 5312, a first rotary drive output 5340, and a second rotary drive output 5350. Cable 5310 further includes a first actuator 5314 for operating the first rotary drive output 5340 and a second actuator 5315 for operating the second rotary drive output 5350. The cable compartment 5312 comprises a battery cavity 5311 configured to receive a battery therein. The battery can be any suitable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery. In many cases, the battery is insertable and removable from the 5311 battery cavity. In many cases, such a battery can supply power to the 5310 cable to operate the 5300 surgical instrument system without the addition of an additional power supply and/or turning on. wire, for example. This design can be advantageous for many reasons. For example, when the surgical instrument system 5300 is not wired to a power source, the entire surgical instrument system 5300 can be present in a sterile operating room field. Such batteries, however, can supply only a finite amount of power. In many circumstances, the finite amount of power that the battery can supply is sufficient to operate the 5300 Surgical Instrument System. On the other hand, circumstances may arise where the battery cannot supply the 5300 Surgical Instrument System with the necessary power.

[00257] Again referring to Figure 41, the battery positioned in the battery cavity 5311 of the cable 5310 can be removed and replaced with a power supply adapter 5360, for example. Power supply adapter 5360 comprises a distal plug 5361 positionable in battery cavity 5311. Distal plug 5361 comprises a plurality of electrical contacts 5366 that are engageable with corresponding electrical contacts 5316 on cable 5310. In many cases, the battery and the Distal plug 5361 may engage the same electrical contacts 5316, depending on which one is positioned in battery cavity 5311. In such cases, cable 5310 may receive power from one set of electrical contacts 5316, regardless of whether it is the battery or power adapter. power supply 5360 that mates with cable 5310. In other cases, the battery engages with a first set of electrical contacts 5316 and the distal plug 5361 engages with another set of electrical contacts 5316. In such cases, a The 5310 cable's microprocessor can be configured to identify whether the 5360 battery or power supply adapter is attached to the 5310 cable.

[00258] The distal plug 5361 of the power supply adapter 5360 can comprise any suitable shape as long as the distal plug 5361 is positioned in the battery cavity 5311. In many cases, the distal plug 5361 can comprise the same geometry as the battery, for example. In certain cases, the 5361 distal plug compartment is analogous or sufficiently similar to the battery compartment. In either case, distal plug 5361 can be configured so that there is little, if any, relative movement between distal plug 5361 and battery cavity 5311 after distal plug 5361 is fully seated in battery cavity 5311. in at least one case, the distal plug 5361 comprises a stop 5368 configured to contact a stop "datum" (starting point) 5318 defined in the cable compartment 5312. When the plug stop 5368 contacts the "datum" " of cable 5318, plug 5361 may be fully seated in battery cavity 5311. Cable 5310 and/or plug 5361 may comprise a latch configured to retain plug 5361 in its fully seated position. For example, plug 5361 comprises at least one latch 5362 configured to releasably engage housing 5312.

[00259] The power supply adapter 5360 further comprises a power cord 5363 extending from the plug 5361. The power cord 5363 electrically couples the plug 5361 with a power source, such as the power supply 5370, for example. Power supply 5370 may comprise any suitable power source, such as a signal generator receiving power from a 110V, 60 Hz power source and/or a battery, for example. Power cord 5363 comprises any suitable number of conductors and insulators to transmit electrical power from power supply 5370 to plug 5361. In at least one instance, power cord 5363 comprises a supply conductor, a return conductor, and a power conductor. ground, for example, which are electrically isolated from each other by an insulating jacket. Each conductor of power cord 5363 may comprise a proximal terminal contained within a proximal plug 5369, for example. In many cases, the 5369 proximal plug may be releasably attached to the 5370 power supply. In other cases, the proximal plug may not be readily detached from the 5370 power supply.

[00260] In various cases, the power supply 5370 may comprise a direct current (DC) power supply, for example. In such cases, the battery and the 5360 power supply adapter may both supply DC power to the 5310 cable, depending on which one is electrically coupled to the 5310 cable. The 5360 power supply adapter and the 5370 power supply can cooperatively supply electrical power to cord 5310 that equals and/or exceeds the electrical power that the battery can supply to cord 5310. In at least one case, a surgeon using cord 5310 as part of the surgical instrument system 5300, may determine that cable 5310 receives no power, then remove the battery from cable 5310 and attach power supply adapter 5360 to cable 5310. Power supply 5370 can then be operated to supply sufficient power to cable 5310 through the 5360 power supply adapter to operate the surgical instrument system as desired. In certain cases, the 5370 power supply can supply a higher voltage to the 5310 cable, for example.

[00261] In certain instances, the power supply 5370 may comprise an alternating current (AC) power supply. In at least one of these instances, the 5360 power supply adapter may include an alternating current to direct current (AC/DC) power converter configured to convert the AC power supplied by the 5370 power supply to DC power. In such cases, the battery and power supply adapter 5360 can both supply direct current DC power to cable 5310, depending on which one is electrically coupled to cable 5310. The AC/DC power converter can include a transformer, a full wave bridge rectifier and/or a filter capacitor, for example; however, any suitable AC/DC power converter can be used. The AC/DC power converter is located in the 5361 plug; however, the AC/DC power converter can be placed inside the 5360 power supply adapter in any suitable location, such as the 5363 cable, for example.

[00262] In many cases, the 5310 cable includes an AC/DC power converter in addition to or in place of the AC/DC power converter of the 5360 power supply adapter. Such embodiment could implement both sets of battery contacts 5316 discussed above. In at least such an embodiment, a battery power supply circuit may comprise, first, a first circuit segment that includes the first set of contacts 5316, which are engaged by the battery, and, second, a second segment of circuit, in parallel with the first circuit segment, which includes the second set of contacts 5316 that are engaged by the power supply adapter 5360. The second circuit segment includes an AC/DC power converter configured to convert the supplied AC power by the 5370 power supply on DC power, while the first circuit segment does not include an AC/DC power converter, since the battery is already configured to supply DC power.

[00263] Again referring to Figure 41, the cable 5310 can be in a sterile field of operation 5301 and the power supply 5370 can be in a non-sterile field 5302. In such cases, the power supply adapter 5360 can be extend between the sterile field 5301 and the non-sterile field 5302. The sterile field 5301 and the non-sterile field are separated by a partition 5303. The partition 5303 may comprise a physical partition, such as a wall, for example, or an intervening virtual partition between a sterile operating table and a non-sterile back table, for example.

[00264] To use the power supply adapter 5360, the battery positioned in the battery cavity 5311 needs to be removed so that the plug 5361 of the power supply adapter 5360 is installed in the battery cavity 5311. Alternative arrangements are provided in the which the battery can remain in the battery cavity 5311 when a power supply adapter is operatively coupled to the cable 5310. Referring now to Figure 42, a battery 5461 can be positioned in the battery cavity 5311. The battery 5461 is readily removable from battery cavity 5311 when lock 5362 is released; however, embodiments are envisaged in which battery 5461 is not readily removable from battery cavity 5311. Similar to plug 5361, battery 5461 may be sized and configured so that battery 5461 is closely received in battery cavity 5311 , so as to limit relative movement between battery 5461 and battery cavity 5311 when battery 5461 is fully seated in battery cavity 5311. Also similar to plug 5361, battery 5461 comprises an end stop 5468 configured to engage contact with stop datum 5318 of cable 5310.

[00265] Battery 5461 comprises one or more lithium-ion battery cells, for example, positioned inside it. Similar to the above, battery 5461 can supply sufficient power to cable 5310 to operate the surgical instrument system under various circumstances. In the event that the battery cells of the 5461 battery lack the necessary power to operate the surgical instrument system, a 5460 power supply adapter can be attached to the 5461 battery. The 5460 power supply adapter is similar to the 5460 power supply adapter power supply 5360 in many ways. Similar to the above, power supply adapter 5460 comprises a power cord 5463 that includes a proximal end 5369 that may be connected to a power source, such as power supply 5370. Battery 5461 includes an electrical connector 5464 defined thereon that is configured to receive a distal connector 5465 of power cord 5463 for electrically coupling power supply 5370 to battery 5461.

[00266] In at least one case, in addition to the above, the 5460 power supply adapter may be placed in series with the 5461 battery cells when the 5465 adapter connector is inserted into the 5464 battery connector. battery 5461 and power supply 5370 can supply power to cable 5310. Figure 43 shows such an embodiment. As shown in Figure 43, a battery 5461' comprises a power supply circuit that includes one or more battery cells 5470' that are configured to supply DC power to cable 5310. When power supply adapter 5460 is electrically coupled to the battery 5461', the power supply 5370 can, firstly, recharge the battery cells 5470' through a recharge circuit 5471' and/or, secondly, supplement the power that the battery cells 5470' are supplying to cable 5310. In cases where power supply 5370 comprises an AC power supply, battery 5461' may comprise an AC/DC transformer 5467' that is configured to convert AC power supplied by power supply 5370 into DC power before power is supplied to load circuit 5471' and/or battery cells 5470'. The power supply circuit in the battery comprises a battery connector 5464, the AC/DC transformer 5467', the charging circuit 5471', the battery cells 5470', and the battery terminals 5366 which are in series with each other; however, any suitable layout for the power supply circuit may be used.

[00267] In other cases, inserting the adapter connector 5465 into the battery connector 5464 can electrically couple the power supply 5370 to the cable 5310 and, concomitantly, electrically decouple the battery cells in the battery 5461 from the cable 5310. Figure 44 shows such mode. As shown in Figure 44, a battery 5461" comprises a power supply circuit that includes one or more battery cells 5470" that are configured to supply DC power to cable 5310. Battery cells 5470" are in electrical communication with the battery 5366 contacts through a first circuit segment 5472" and a battery switch 5474" when the adapter connector 5465 is not positioned on the battery connector 5464. In such cases, the battery switch 5474" is in a first state key. Inserting the 5465 adapter connector into the 5464 battery connector places the 5474" switch into a second switch state, as illustrated in Figure 44, where the 5470" battery cells are no longer capable of supplying electrical power to the 5366 contacts. Additionally, power supply adapter 5460 and battery connector 5464 are in electrical communication with battery contacts 5366 through a second circuit segment 5473" and battery switch 5474" when switch 5474" is in its second switch state. In cases where the power supply 5370 comprises an AC power supply, the second circuit segment 5473" of the battery 5461" may comprise an AC/DC transformer 5467" that is configured to convert the AC power supplied by the 5370 power supply in DC power.

[00268] As discussed above, with reference again to Figure 44, battery switch 5474" can be operated to selectively position the first parallel circuit segment 5472" that includes battery cells 5470" in electrical communication with the battery contacts 5366 when switch 5474" is in its first switch state and, alternatively, second parallel circuit segment 5473" which includes battery connector 5464 and AC/DC transformer 5467" in electrical communication with battery contacts 5366 when the 5474" key is in its second key state. The 5474" battery key can comprise a mechanical key, an electromechanical key, and/or an electronic key, as described in more detail below.

[00269] A mechanical battery switch 5474" may comprise a sliding bar that is pushed between a first position associated with a first key state of the key 5474" and a second position associated with a second key state of the key 5474", for example. In the first position of the slider, the bus couples the first 5472" circuit segment to the 5366 battery contacts, but does not couple the second 5473" circuit segment to the 5366 battery contacts. couple second circuit segment 5473" to battery contacts 5366, but do not couple first circuit segment 5472" to battery contacts 5366. Battery 5461 may further comprise a biasing member, such as a spring, for example, configured to tilt the bus to its first position and therefore tilt the 5474" battery switch to its first switch state. In addition to the above, the 5465 Adapter Connector may contact the 5474 Switch Bus" when the 5465 Adapter Connector is inserted into the 5464 Battery Connector and push the bus from its first position to its second position and position the key 5474" in its second key state. When adapter connector 5465 is removed from battery connector 5464, the tilt member can return the bus to its first position and electrically re-couple battery cells 5470" to battery contacts 5366. In certain alternate embodiments, insertion of the adapter connector 5465 to battery connector 5464 can permanently decouple battery cells 5470" from battery contacts 5466. In at least such an embodiment, battery 5461" can comprise a latch configured to retain the bus in its second position after the bus is pushed into the second position by adapter connector 5465. Such embodiment may provide a permanent lock to prevent battery 5461" from being used again to supply power from battery cells 5470", as this may not be desirable and/or reliably reuse and/or recharge a battery unable to provide sufficient power to the 5310 cable.

[00270] A 5474" electromechanical switch can comprise a relay, for example. The relay can be biased into a first relay state when the 5465 adapter connector is not positioned on the 5464 battery connector. The relay can be switched in a second relay state when adapter connector 5465 is electrically coupled to battery connector 5464. The relay may comprise an electromagnet, which may include a coil of wire and armature, for example, which is activated when contacts of adapter connector 5465 interface with the battery connector 5464. In at least one instance, the power supply adapter 5460 may comprise a relay control circuit in addition to the power circuitry, which may supply the relay coil with sufficient voltage to move the armature. of the relay between its first switch state and its second switch state. In many cases, switch 5474" may comprise a latch relay, for example. In at least one case, switch 5474" may comprise a contactor, for example, which may be electronically controlled by a microprocessor and control circuit, for example.

[00271] Certain electronic switches may not have any moving components, like a solid state relay, for example. A solid state relay can use a thyristor, TRIAC and/or any other solid state switching device, for example. A solid-state relay can be activated by a control signal from the 5370 power supply, for example, to switch the load being supplied to the 5366 battery contacts from the 5470" battery cells to the 5370 power supply. In at least one case, the solid state relay may comprise a contactor solid state relay, for example. In various cases, an electronic switch may comprise a microprocessor and a sensor in signal communication with the microprocessor that detects whether power is being supplied to a contact of the 5464 battery connector, for example. In at least one case, the sensor can be configured to inductively detect a field that is generated when voltage is applied to the contacts of the 5464 battery connector. the microprocessor may respond to a control signal received from power supply 5370, for example, to switch a relay between a first relay state and a second relay state to control the possibility ability of the first parallel circuit segment 5472" or the second parallel circuit segment 5473", respectively, to be in electrical communication with the battery contacts 5366.

[00272] In addition to the above, the 5460 power supply adapter may include an AC/DC power converter. The 5460 power supply adapter includes a 5467 AC/DC power transformer in the 5463 power cord; however, an AC/DC power transformer can be placed in any suitable location on the 5460 power supply adapter.

[00273] In many cases, a power supply adapter system may include a battery, such as battery 5361, 5461, 5461' and/or 5461", for example, and a power supply adapter, such as the 5360 and/or 5460 power supply, for example.

[00274] Referring now to Figures 45 to 47, a handle 5510 of a surgical instrument system comprises a gripping portion, or pistol grip, 5511 and a housing 5512. The handle 5510 further comprises one or more battery cells, such as battery cells 5470, for example, positioned in gripping portion 5511. In many cases, battery cells 5470 can supply sufficient power to handle 5510 to operate the surgical instrument system. In other cases, the 5470 battery cells may not be able to provide sufficient power to the 5510 cable. In such cases, as described in more detail below, a supplementary battery, such as the 5560 supplementary battery, for example, can be attached to the cable. 5510 to supply power to cable 5510.

[00275] In addition to the above, referring primarily to Figure 47, the battery cells 5470 are arranged in series as part of a battery power supply circuit 5513. The battery power supply circuit 5513 is in electrical communication with an electrical connector 5516 defined in compartment 5512. Electrical connector 5516 may comprise any suitable number of electrical contacts. In at least one case, electrical connector 5516 comprises two electrical contacts, for example. Electrical connector 5516 is positioned at the end of gripping portion 5511; however, the 5516 electrical connector can be positioned in any suitable location on the 5510 cable.

[00276] The cable 5510 further comprises a connector cover 5517. The connector cover 5517 is movable between a first position in which it covers the electrical connector 5516 and a second position in which the electrical connector 5516 is exposed. Housing 5512 comprises a slot 5518 defined therein, configured to slideably receive and support connector cover 5517. Cable 5510 further comprises a biasing member, such as spring 5519, for example, positioned in slot 5518 between housing 5512 and the 5517 connector cover. The 5519 spring is configured to tilt the 5517 connector cover to its first position to cover the 5516 electrical connector.

[00277] As discussed above, the supplementary battery 5560 is attachable to the cable 5510. The supplementary battery 5560 comprises a compartment 5562 and one or more battery cells, such as battery cells 5570, for example, positioned therein. Battery cells 5570 are arranged in series as part of a supplemental battery supply circuit 5563. Supplementary battery supply circuit 5563 is in electrical communication with an electrical connector 5566 defined in battery compartment 5562. Electrical connector 5566 comprises the same number of electrical contacts as the 5516 electrical connector, and they are configured to form matched pairs with the electrical contacts of the 5516 electrical connector.

[00278] The compartment 5562 of the supplementary battery 5560 further comprises a cavity, or receptacle, 5561 defined therein, which is configured to receive the gripping portion 5511 of the handle 5510. The cavity 5561 is configured to narrowly receive the portion grip 5511 so that there is little or no relative movement between the supplementary battery 5560 and the cable 5510 when the supplementary battery 5560 is fully mounted thereto. As the 5560 Supplementary Battery is mounted on the 5510 Cable, the 5562 Housing contacts the 5517 Connector Cover and pushes the 5517 Connector Cover into the second position to expose the 5516 Electrical Connector. When the 5516 Electrical Connector contacts are, At least partially exposed, the contacts of electrical connector 5566 can engage with the contacts of electrical connector 5516. At this point, the supplementary battery supply circuit 5563 has been electrically coupled to the battery power supply circuit 5513.

[00279] The electrical connectors 5516 and 5566 can be positioned and arranged so that they do not engage with each other until the supplementary battery 5560 has been fully seated in the gripping portion 5511. In other embodiments, the electrical connectors 5516 and 5566 can be positioned and arranged so that they engage with each other before the supplementary battery 5560 is fully seated in the gripping portion 5511. In either case, the compartment 5512 of the cable 5510 and/or the compartment 5562 of the supplementary battery 5560 may comprise a latch configured to retain the 5560 supplemental battery in the 5510 compartment. The latch is removable to allow the 5560 supplemental battery to be easily removed from the 5510 handle; however, embodiments are contemplated in which the latch does not allow the supplemental battery 5560 to be easily released from the handle 5510.

[00280] As discussed above, the supplementary battery supply circuit 5563 is electrically coupled to the battery power supply circuit 5513 when the supplementary battery 5560 is mounted on the cable 5510. In many cases, the supplementary battery cells 5570 are positioned in series with the 5470 cable battery cells and can increase the power available to the 5510 cable. Such arrangements can be useful when the 5470 cable battery cells are drained by use, for example. In other cases, supplemental battery cells 5570 of supplemental battery 5560 are positioned in parallel with battery cells 5470 of cable 5510. In at least such an occurrence, battery cells of cable 5470 can be electrically decoupled from cable 5510 when the Supplementary battery cells 5570 are electrically coupled to cable 5510. Such embodiments can be useful when a short circuit occurs in the battery cells of cable 5470. Various embodiments of cable 5510 can include a switch that can allow the user to selectively position the cells 5570 Supplementary Battery Cells in series with or in parallel with the 5470 Cable Battery Cells.

[00281] Example 1 - A surgical apparatus comprising a cable module comprising a fixation portion, wherein a separable drive shaft module is attachable to the fixation portion to collectively perform a surgical procedure, and wherein the module of cable comprises a rotary drive system for driving the separable drive shaft module, an electric motor coupled to the rotary drive system for powering the rotary drive system, and one or more sensors. The cable module further comprises a cable module processor circuit in communication with the one or more sensors and the electric motor, the cable module processor circuit being programmed to control the electric motor, track a final parameter of life for the cable module based on input from one or more sensors, and maintain an end of life parameter count.

[00282] Example 2 - The surgical apparatus of Example 1, further comprising means, in communication with the cable module processor circuit, to perform an end-of-life action when the cable module processor circuit determines that the count for the end of life parameter reaches a threshold value.

[00283] Example 3 - The surgical device of Example 2, in which the means for performing the end-of-life action comprises a screen that displays information to a user of the surgical device that indicates that the end-of-life parameter has reached a limit value.

[00284] Example 4 - The surgical instrument from Example 3, in which the screen displays the count.

[00285] Example 5 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 3 or 4, in which the screen displays an indicator that indicates a remaining number of uses for the cable module before the limit value is reached.

[00286] Example 6 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 2, 3, 4 or 5, wherein the means for performing the end-of-life action comprises a means for disabling the cable module for a subsequent surgical procedure.

[00287] Example 7 - The surgical apparatus of Example 6, in which the means for disabling the cable module comprises a means for disabling the operation of the electric motor.

[00288] Example 8 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 6 or 7, in which the means for disabling the cable module comprises means for preventing the installation of a charged battery pack in the cable module.

[00289] Example 9 - The surgical device of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8, in which the end of life parameter is selected from the group consisting of several trips by the cable module, several procedures surgical procedures involving the cable module, various attachments of a removable shaft module to the cable module, various sterilizations of the cable module, and various attachments of removable battery packs to the cable module where the removable battery packs are intended to supply electrical power to the cable module during a surgical procedure.

[00290] Example 10 - The surgical device of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9, in which the end-of-life parameter is computed according to a function whose entries include the number of shots by the cable module and the number of surgical procedures involving the cable module.

[00291] Example 11 - The surgical device of Example 10, in which the function computes the end-of-life parameter through the use of different weighting coefficients for different separable drive shaft modules.

[00292] Example 12 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or 11, in which the separable drive shaft module comprises an end actuator with a trigger member which, when fired, traverses a length of stroke, and where the end-of-life parameter comprises a usage parameter for the cable module indicative of differences between the force that may be exerted by the cable module and the force actually exerted by the cable module along the length of travel of the firing member.

[00293] Example 13 - The surgical device of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12, in which the end-of-life parameter comprises the number of times the cable module has been sterilized.

[00294] Example 14 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 or 13, in which the cable module includes a sterilization sensor that is in communication with the cable module processor circuit that is actuated when a protective sterilization cover is attached to the cable module.

[00295] Example 15 - The surgical apparatus of Example 14, in which the sterilization sensor comprises a switch that is actuated when the protective sterilization cover is attached to the cable module.

[00296] Example 16 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15, which additionally comprises an inspection station, in which the cable module is connectable to the inspection module for inspection of the cable module after the surgical procedure, wherein the inspection station comprises an inspection station processor circuit that communicates with the cable module processor circuit via a data connection when the cable module is connected to the inspection station, and an inspection station screen in communication with the inspection station processor circuit, wherein the inspection station screen displays information about the cable module when the cable module is connected to the inspection station.

[00297] Example 17 - A surgical apparatus comprising a handle module that is attachable to a separable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, wherein the handle module comprises a rotary drive system that is activatable to drive the separable drive shaft module, an electric motor coupled to the rotary drive system to power the rotary drive system, and a means for tracking an end of life parameter count for the cable module based on the number of times the rotary drive system is activated.

[00298] Example 18 - The surgical apparatus of Example 17, in which the means for tracking the end-of-life parameter count comprises a processor circuit and a memory, in which the memory stores a program code that is executed by the processor to track the end-of-life parameter count for the cable module.

[00299] Example 19 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 17 or 18, in which the cable module is powered by a removable battery pack, and in which the means for tracking the end-of-life parameter count for the cable additionally relies on a number of times a removable battery pack is connected to the cable module.

[00300] Example 20 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 17, 18 or 19, which further comprises a sterilization tray to retain the cable module during a sterilization procedure, wherein the means for tracking the end-of-life parameter count Useful for the cable module comprises a counter on the sterilization tray that increments the count when the cable module is positioned on the sterilization tray.

[00301] Example 21 - An apparatus comprising a cable module that is attachable to a separable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, in which the cable module comprises a rotary drive system to drive the shaft module separable drive system, an electric motor coupled to the rotary drive system to power the rotary drive system, and a cable module processor circuit in communication with the electric motor. The apparatus further comprises an inspection station for connection to the cable module when the cable module is not being used in a surgical procedure, wherein the inspection station comprises an inspection station processor circuit that communicates with the inspection circuit. cable module processor through a data connection when the cable module is connected to the inspection station, and an inspection station screen in communication with the inspection station processor circuit, where the inspection station screen displays information about the cable module connected to the inspection station.

[00302] Example 22 - The apparatus of Example 21, in which the inspection station comprises an electrical power source to supply electrical power to the cable module when the cable module is connected to the inspection station.

[00303] Example 23 - The apparatus of Examples 21 or 22, in which the inspection station is configured to perform one or more tests on the cable module to determine the suitability of the cable module for use in a subsequent surgical procedure.

[00304] Example 24 - The apparatus of Example 23, wherein the one or more tests comprise a cable module seal integrity test.

[00305] Example 25 - The apparatus of Examples 23 or 24, wherein the one or more tests comprise a gear backlash test for the rotary drive system of the cable module.

[00306] Example 26 - The apparatus of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24 or 25, in which the inspection station is configured to perform a conditioning action to condition the cable module for use in a subsequent surgical procedure.

[00307] Example 27 - The apparatus of Example 26, in which the conditioning action comprises drying components of the cable module.

[00308] Example 28 - The apparatus of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 or 27, in which the inspection station comprises one or more fans to blow air on the components of the cable module.

[00309] Example 29 - The apparatus of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 or 28, in which the inspection station comprises a vacuum port to dry the cable module components with the air flow of vacuum pressure.

[00310] Example 30 - The apparatus of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 or 29, in which the inspection station additionally comprises a load simulation adapter connectable to the module's rotary drive system cable.

[00311] Example 31 - The apparatus of Example 30, in which the load simulation adapter comprises a motor to supply a simulated load to the rotary drive system of the cable module.

[00312] Example 32 - The apparatus of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 or 31, in which the inspection station is additionally connected to the separable drive shaft module.

[00313] Example 33 - A surgical process comprising performing, by a physician, a surgical procedure on a patient with a surgical instrument comprising a cable module connected to a separable drive shaft module, wherein the module cable includes a memory that stores data about the cable module and the surgical procedure, while the cable module is connected to the inspection station, download to an inspection station memory data about the surgical procedure stored in the memory of the inspection module cable, and while the cable module is connected to the inspection station, visually display information about the cable module on an inspection station screen.

[00314] Example 34 - The surgical process of Example 33, which additionally comprises after the surgical procedure and before connecting the cable module to an inspection station, removing a removable battery pack from the cable module, in which the battery pack Removable batteries powered the cable module during the surgical procedure, and while the cable module is connected to the inspection station, electrically power the cable module with electrical power from the inspection station.

[00315] Example 35 - The surgical process of Examples 33 or 34, which, while the cable module is connected to the inspection station, comprises performing one or more tests on the cable module to determine the suitability of the cable module for use in a subsequent surgical procedure.

[00316] Example 36 - The surgical process of Example 35, wherein the one or more tests comprise a cable module seal integrity test.

[00317] Example 37 - The surgical process of Examples 35 or 36, wherein the one or more tests comprise a gear backlash test.

[00318] Example 38 - The surgical process of Examples 34, 35, 36 or 37, which, while the cable module is connected to the inspection station, comprises performing a conditioning action to condition the cable module for use in a procedure subsequent surgery.

[00319] Example 39 - The surgical process of Example 38, in which the conditioning action comprises drying components of the cable module.

[00320] Example 40 - A surgical apparatus comprising a handle module that is attachable to a separable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, wherein the handle module comprises a rotary drive system to drive the drive module separable drive shaft, an electric motor coupled to the rotary drive system for powering the rotary drive system, one or more sensors for sensing data about the electric motor, and a cable module processor circuit in communication with the one or more sensors, wherein the cable module processor circuit is programmed to monitor a performance parameter of the cable module based on input from the one or more sensors, and wherein the cable module processor circuit monitors the performance parameter of the cable module by monitoring the possibility that the performance parameter is outside an acceptable performance range.

[00321] Example 41 - The surgical device of Example 40, in which the processor circuit monitors the performance parameter of the cable module by monitoring the possibility that the performance parameter is below or above the acceptable performance range.

[00322] Example 42 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 40 or 41, in which the cable module additionally comprises a means to take corrective action when the cable module processor circuit determines that the performance parameter is outside the range of acceptable performance.

[00323] Example 43 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 40, 41 or 42, in which the performance parameter comprises a performance parameter of the electric motor.

[00324] Example 44 - The surgical device of Example 43, in which the performance parameter of the electric motor comprises the energy consumed by the electric motor during the useful life of the cable module.

[00325] Example 45 - The surgical device of Examples 43 or 44, in which the performance parameter of the electric motor comprises the power consumed by the electric motor for each shot of the cable module.

[00326] Example 46 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 43, 44 or 45, in which the performance parameter of the electric motor comprises the energy consumed by the electric motor during the useful life of the cable module and the power consumed by the electric motor for each cable module trigger.

[00327] Example 47 - The surgical apparatus of Example 46, in which the cable module processor circuit is programmed to determine that a corrective action must be taken when at least one of the following conditions is satisfied: the energy consumed by the electric motor during the service life of the cable module exceeds a first threshold value of energy, and the energy consumed by the electric motor during the lifetime of the cable module exceeds a second threshold value of energy, which is less than the first threshold value of power, and the cable module had a threshold number of device fires above a threshold power level.

[00328] Example 48 - The surgical device of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46 or 47, in which the performance parameter comprises an output torque of the electric motor.

[00329] Example 49 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47 or 48, in which the performance parameter comprises a performance parameter of the rotary drive system.

[00330] Example 50 - The surgical apparatus of Example 49, in which the performance parameter of the rotary drive system comprises a gear backlash.

[00331] Example 51 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 or 50, wherein the means for carrying out the corrective action comprises a screen for displaying a condition of the cable module.

[00332] Example 52 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or 51, wherein the means for performing a corrective action comprises a means for disabling the cable module.

[00333] Example 53 - The surgical apparatus of Example 52, in which the means for disabling the cable module comprises means to prevent the insertion of a removable battery pack charged in the cable module to power the cable module during a procedure surgical.

[00334] Example 54 - The surgical apparatus of Example 53, wherein the means for preventing insertion of a charged removable battery pack comprises a spring-loaded mechanical interlock.

[00335] Example 55 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 53 or 54, in which the means to prevent the insertion of a charged removable battery pack comprises a lock that, when actuated, prevents the removal of a discharged removable battery pack from the module cable.

[00336] Example 56 - A surgical apparatus comprising a separable drive shaft module and a cable module connected to the separable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, in which the cable module comprises a rotary drive system for driving the separable drive shaft module, an electric motor coupled to the rotary drive system for powering the rotary drive system, a means for monitoring a performance parameter of at least one of the electric motor and the rotary drive system, and a means for taking corrective action upon a determination that the performance parameter is outside an acceptable performance range.

[00337] Example 57 - The surgical device of Example 56, in which the performance parameter comprises the energy consumed by the electric motor during the useful life of the cable module.

[00338] Example 58 - The surgical device of Examples 56 or 57, in which the performance parameter comprises the power consumed by the electric motor for each shot of the cable module.

[00339] Example 59 - The surgical device of Examples 56, 57 or 58, in which the performance parameter comprises the output torque of the electric motor.

[00340] Example 60 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 56, 57, 58 or 59, in which the means for carrying out the corrective action comprises a means for disabling the cable module.

[00341] Example 61 - The surgical apparatus of Example 60, in which the means for disabling the cable module comprises a means for disabling the electric motor.

[00342] Example 62 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 60 or 61, in which the means for disabling the cable module comprises means to prevent the insertion of a removable battery pack charged in the cable module to power the cable module during a surgical procedure.

[00343] Example 63 - A combination comprising a cable module that is attachable to a separable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, a removable rechargeable battery pack that can be connected to the cable module to provide electrical power to the cable module during a surgical procedure, wherein the battery pack comprises a memory for storing charging data and discharging data for the battery pack, and a charging station for at least one of charging and discharging the pack of batteries when the battery pack is removed from the cable module and inserted into the charging station, wherein the charging station is intended for at least one of charging and discharging the battery pack based on the charging data and the charging data discharge stored in the battery pack memory.

[00344] Example 64 - The combination of Example 63, wherein the battery pack comprises a plurality of battery cells, the charging station comprises a charging station processor circuit, which determines when the battery cells must be rebalanced based on the charge data and discharge data stored in the battery pack memory, and based on the rebalancing criteria, and the charging station rebalances the battery cells of the battery pack when the charging station processor circuit determines that the battery cells must be rebalanced.

[00345] Example 65 - The combination of Example 64, in which the charging station processor circuit is programmed to determine that the battery cells must be rebalanced after N charges of the battery pack without rebalancing, where N is a number integer greater than zero.

[00346] Example 66 - The combination of Examples 64 or 65, in which before rebalancing the battery cells, the charging station is configured to complete a charge of the battery cells.

[00347] Example 67 - The combination of Examples 63, 64, 65 or 66, in which the charging station comprises a charging station processor circuit that determines whether the battery pack should be discharged, based on the charging data and discharging values stored in the memory of the battery pack and based on discharge criteria, and wherein the charging station discharges the battery pack when the charging station processor circuitry determines that the battery pack should be discharged.

[00348] Example 68 - The combination of Example 67, where the discharge criteria comprise the possibility that a second battery pack installed in the charging station is fully charged and ready for use in the cable module.

[00349] Example 69 - The combination of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67 or 68, in which the charging station is programmed to charge the battery pack at one time of the day based on the surgical procedure scheduling data to an organizational user of the charging station, and wherein surgical procedure programming data is stored in a memory of the charging station.

[00350] Example 70 - The combination of Example 69, where the surgical procedure programming data comprises a statistical probability that the organizational user is performing a surgical procedure with the cable module at the time of day.

[00351] Example 71 - The combination of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69 or 70, in which the charging station comprises a means for automatically securing the battery pack to the charging station when the battery pack batteries are not ready to use in the cable module for a surgical procedure.

[00352] Example 72 - The combination of Example 71, in which the means for automatically securing the battery pack to the charging station comprises a screw that, when actuated by the insertion of the battery pack into the charging station, is threaded into the battery pack batteries.

[00353] Example 73 - The combination of Examples 71 or 72 or, in which the means for automatically securing the battery pack to the charging station additionally comprises a linear actuator for actuating the screw.

[00354] Example 74 - The combination of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72 or 73, in which the charging station comprises a screen to display charge status information about the battery pack.

[00355] Example 75 - The combination of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73 or 74, in which the charging station comprises means for quickly charging the first set of batteries when a quick charge user input for the battery pack is received by the charging station.

[00356] Example 76 - The combination of Example 75, wherein the charging station comprises a means for automatically securing the battery pack to the charging station when the battery pack is not ready for use in the cable module for a surgical procedure .

[00357] Example 77 - A surgical process comprising performing, by a physician, a surgical procedure on a patient with a surgical instrument comprising a cable module connected to a separable drive shaft module, wherein the cable is powered during the surgical procedure by a removable rechargeable battery pack, and wherein the battery pack comprises a memory for storing charge data and discharge data for the battery pack, removing the battery pack from the cable module after the same was used during the surgical procedure, after the removal step, place the battery pack on a charging station to recharge the battery pack, after the placement step, download the data from the charging station via the charging station charging and discharging the battery pack memory, and after the download step, at least one of charging and to discharge, via the charging station, the battery pack based on the charging data and the discharge data stored in the battery pack memory.

[00358] Example 78 - The surgical process of Example 77, in which the battery pack comprises a plurality of battery cells, and in which the process further comprises: after the download transfer step, determining, through the charging station , whether the battery cells are to be rebalanced based on the charge data and discharge data stored in the battery pack memory, and based on the rebalancing criteria, and determining that rebalancing the battery cells in the battery pack must be performed, rebalance the battery cells via the charging station.

[00359] Example 79 - The surgical process of Examples 77 or 78, after the download step, which comprises fast charging the battery pack in response to receiving a fast charge user input.

[00360] Example 80 - The surgical process of Examples 77, 78 or 79, after the positioning step, which comprises automatically attaching the battery pack to the charging station when the battery pack is not ready for use in the cable module for a surgical procedure.

[00361] Example 81 - A combination comprising a cable module that is attachable to a separable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, a removable rechargeable battery pack that can be connected to the cable module to provide electrical power to the cable module during a surgical procedure, and a charging station for charging the battery pack when the battery pack is removed from the cable module and inserted into the charging station, wherein the charging station comprises circuitry for fast charge the battery pack when a fast charge user input for the battery pack is received by the charging station.

[00362] Example 82 - The combination of Example 81, in which the charging station comprises a screen for displaying the state of charge of the battery pack.

[00363] Example 83 - The combination of Examples 81 or 82, wherein the charging station comprises a user interface through which a user enters fast charging user input into the charging station.

[00364] Example 84 - The combination of Example 83, wherein the user interface comprises a button on the charging station that is actuable to provide the charging station with fast charging user input.

[00365] Example 85 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83 or 84, wherein the circuitry for fast charging the battery pack comprises a circuitry for changing a charge profile for the battery pack.

[00366] Example 86 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83, 84 or 85, in which the circuitry for changing the charge profile for the battery pack comprises a voltage regulator connected to the battery pack, and a charge controller circuit connected to voltage regulator.

[00367] Example 87 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83, 84, 85 or 86, in which the circuitry for quickly charging the battery pack comprises a charge storage device of the charging station, and in which the charge stored in the charge storage device is used to charge the battery pack.

[00368] Example 88 - The combination of Example 87, wherein the charge storage device comprises a supercapacitor.

[00369] Example 89 - The combination of Example 88, wherein the charging station further comprises a circuit of circuits for discharging the first set of batteries in the supercapacitor.

[00370] Example 90 - The combination of Examples 87, 88 or 89, in which the charge storage device comprises one or more battery cells internal to the charging station.

[00371] Example 91 - The combination of Examples 87, 88 or 89, in which the charge storage device comprises a plurality of battery cells internal to the charging station, and in which the set of circuits for quickly charging the set of battery comprises circuitry for charging the battery pack with the plurality of battery cells.

[00372] Example 92 - The combination of Example 91, in which the plurality of battery cells are connected in series.

[00373] Example 93 - The combination of Examples 91 or 92, in which the plurality of battery cells are connected as current sources in parallel.

[00374] Example 94 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92 or 93, in which the charging station additionally comprises a set of circuits for discharging the first set of batteries in the plurality of internal battery cells.

[00375] Example 95 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93 or 94, in which the battery pack comprises a first battery pack wherein the charging station comprises a first charging receptacle for receiving the first set of batteries for charging the first set of batteries, and a second charging receptacle for receiving a second set of batteries for charging the second set of batteries, and wherein the circuitry for rapidly charging the first set of batteries comprises circuitry for charging the first set of batteries with the charge stored in the second set of batteries.

[00376] Example 96 - The combination of Example 95, wherein the charging station further comprises a circuitry for discharging the first set of batteries into the second set of batteries.

[00377] Example 97 - The combination of Examples 95 or 96, in which the charging station comprises a screen for displaying the state of charge of the first set of batteries and the second set of batteries.

[00378] Example 98 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96 or 97, in which the charging station comprises means for automatically securing the battery pack to the charging station when the battery pack is not ready for use in the cable module for a surgical procedure.

[00379] Example 99 - A surgical instrument system comprising a cable module for performing a surgical procedure, a rechargeable battery pack that can be connected to the cable module to provide electrical power to the cable module during the surgical procedure, and a charging station for charging the battery pack, the charging station comprising circuitry for charging the cable module under two operating conditions: a first operating condition in which the battery pack is charged from a source primary power supply, and a second operating condition in which the battery pack is charged from the primary power source and a secondary power source, so as to quickly charge the battery pack in case the battery pack is urgently needed in the surgical procedure.

[00380] Example 100 - The surgical instrument system of Example 99, wherein the secondary power source comprises a second removable rechargeable battery pack connectable to the cable module.

[00381] Example 101 - An apparatus comprising a cable module that is attachable to a separable drive module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, wherein the cable module comprises a cable module memory circuit for storing usage data cable module to the cable module, and an inspection station for connection to the cable module when the cable module is not being used in a surgical procedure, wherein the inspection station comprises an inspection station processor circuit to determine one or more service recommendations for the cable module based on the cable module usage data in the cable module memory and based on the service recommendation criteria.

[00382] Example 102 - The apparatus of Example 101, in which the inspection station additionally comprises a screen that is in communication with the inspection station processor circuit, and in which the screen is intended to display information about the one or more more service recommendations.

[00383] Example 103 - The apparatus of Examples 101 or 102, in which the service recommendation criteria are stored in an inspection station memory of the inspection station, and in which the inspection station processor circuit is in communication with the inspection station memory.

[00384] Example 104 - The apparatus of Examples 101, 102 or 103, in which the cable module comprises a cable module processor circuit in communication with the cable module memory circuit, and in which the processor circuit The cable module module is in communication with the inspection station processor circuit when the cable module is connected to the inspection station, so the cable module memory usage data is downloaded to the inspection station .

[00385] Example 105 - The apparatus of Examples 101, 102, 103 or 104, in which the cable module usage data comprises data selected from the group consisting of data related to various surgical procedures involving the cable module, data data relating to various device firings by the cable module, data relating to power expended during cable module device firings, data relating to forces experienced during cable module device firings, data relating to energy consumed by an electric motor of the cable module over the life of the cable module, and gear backlash related data for a cable module rotary drive system.

[00386] Example 106 - The apparatus of Examples 101, 102, 103, 104 or 105, in which the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that the cable module be rebuilt.

[00387] Example 107 - The apparatus of Examples 101, 102, 103, 104, 105 or 106, in which the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that one or more components of the cable module be lubricated.

[00388] Example 108 - The apparatus of Examples 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106 or 107, in which the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that one or more components of the cable module be inspected.

[00389] Example 109 - An apparatus comprising a cable module that is attachable to a separable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, wherein the cable module comprises a cable module memory circuit for storing data module usage data for the cable module, and a cable module processor circuit to determine one or more service recommendations for the cable module based on cable module usage data stored in the memory of the cable module. cable and based on service recommendation criteria.

[00390] Example 110 - The apparatus of Example 109, in which the cable module additionally comprises a screen that is in communication with the cable module processor circuit, and in which the screen is intended to display information about the one or more more service recommendations.

[00391] Example 111 - The apparatus of Examples 109 or 110, in which the cable module usage data comprises data selected from the group consisting of data related to various surgical procedures involving the cable module, data related to various shots by the cable module device, data relating to power expended during cable module device firings, data relating to forces experienced during cable module device firings, data relating to energy consumed by a cable module electric motor over the life of the cable module, and data related to backlash for a cable module rotary drive system.

[00392] Example 112 - The apparatus of Examples 109, 110 or 111, wherein the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that the cable module be rebuilt.

[00393] Example 113 - The apparatus of Examples 109, 110, 111 or 112, wherein the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that the cable module be rebuilt.

[00394] Example 114 - The apparatus of Examples 109, 110, 111, 112 or 113, in which the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that one or more components of the cable module be lubricated.

[00395] Example 115 - The apparatus of Examples 109, 110, 111, 112, 113 or 114, in which the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that one or more components of the cable module be inspected.

[00396] Example 116 - A surgical instrument system comprising a handle that includes a battery cavity and a direct current electric motor, a battery that can be removablely positioned in the battery cavity, where the battery is configured to supplying direct current electrical power to the direct current electric motor, and a power adapter that includes a plug that can be removablely positioned in the battery cavity in place of the battery, and a power cord that extends from the plug , where the power cord is configured to transmit power to the plug from a power source. The surgical instrument system further comprises an AC to DC power converter configured to convert AC electrical power supplied by the power supply into DC electrical power.

[00397] Example 117 - The surgical instrument system of Example 116, in which the power converter from alternating current to direct current is positioned in the plug.

[00398] Example 118 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 116 or 117, in which the battery comprises a battery compartment, in which the plug comprises a plug compartment, and in which the battery compartment is analogous to the plug compartment .

[00399] Example 119 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 116, 117 or 118, wherein the cable comprises a set of cable electrical contacts in the battery cavity, wherein the battery comprises a set of battery electrical contacts configured to engage with the cable electrical contacts when the battery is positioned in the battery cavity, and wherein the plug comprises a set of plug electrical contacts configured to engage with the cable electrical contacts when the plug is positioned in the battery cavity.

[00400] Example 120 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 116, 117, 118 or 119, in which the cable comprises a first set of cable electrical contacts and a second set of cable electrical contacts in the battery cavity, in which the battery comprises a set of electrical battery contacts configured to engage with the first set of cable electrical contacts when the battery is positioned in the battery cavity, and wherein the plug comprises a set of electrical plug contacts configured to engage with the second set of wire electrical contacts when the plug is positioned in the battery cavity.

[00401] Example 121 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 116, 117, 118, 119 or 120, in which the power converter from alternating current to direct current is positioned inside the cable and is in electrical communication with the second set of cable electrical contacts.

[00402] Example 122 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 116, 117, 118, 119, 120 or 121, which further comprises a plurality of drive shaft assemblies, wherein each drive shaft set is selectively engageable to the handle .

[00403] Example 123 - The surgical instrument system of Example 122, wherein at least one of the drive shaft assemblies comprises a stapling cartridge.

[00404] Example 124 - A surgical instrument system comprising a handle including a battery cavity and a direct current electric motor, a power adapter including a battery positioned in the battery cavity, wherein the battery comprises at least a battery cell, an electrical connector, and a power cable engageable with the electrical connector, wherein the power cable is configured to transmit power from a power source. The surgical instrument system further comprises an alternating current to direct current power converter configured to convert the alternating current electrical power supplied by the power supply into direct current electrical power, and supply direct current electrical power to the current electric motor. to be continued.

[00405] Example 125 - The surgical instrument system of Example 124, which further comprises a battery circuit, in which the at least one battery cell, the power converter from alternating current to direct current and the electrical connector are arranged in series in the battery circuit so that the at least one battery cell and the power supply can supply power to the DC electric motor when the power cable is engaged in the electrical connector.

[00406] Example 126 - The surgical instrument system of Example 124, further comprising a first battery circuit segment, wherein the first battery circuit segment includes at least one battery cell, a second battery circuit segment battery, wherein the second battery circuit segment includes the AC-to-DC power converter, and a switch positioned on the battery, wherein the switch is switchable between a first switch state in which the at least one battery cell is battery can supply electrical power to the direct current electric motor and the power supply cannot supply electrical power to the direct current electric motor, and a second switch state in which the at least one battery cell cannot supply electrical power to the motor DC electric motor and the power supply can supply electrical power to the DC electric motor.

[00407] Example 127 - The surgical instrument system of Example 126, where the key is tilted to the first key state.

[00408] Example 128 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 126 or 127, in which inserting the power cable into the battery electrical connector switches the key from the first key state to the second key state.

[00409] Example 129 - The surgical instrument system of Example 128, further comprising a tilt member configured to return the key to a first key state.

[00410] Example 130 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 126, 127 or 128, in which the key is unable to return to the first key state after being positioned in the second key state.

[00411] Example 131 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129 or 130, which further comprises a plurality of drive shaft sets, wherein each drive shaft set is selectively engageable to the end.

[00412] Example 132 - The surgical instrument system of Example 131, wherein at least one of the drive shaft assemblies comprises a stapling cartridge.

[00413] Example 133 - A surgical instrument system comprising a cable that includes a cable compartment, a cable battery cell positioned in the cable compartment, a cable electrical circuit, in which the cable battery cell is configured for supplying power to the cable electrical circuit, and a cable electrical connector in communication with the cable electrical circuit. The surgical instrument system further comprises a supplementary battery selectively engageable to the handle, wherein the supplementary battery comprises a battery compartment engageable to the handle compartment, a battery electrical circuit, a supplementary battery cell positioned in the cell compartment, wherein the supplementary battery cell is configured to supply power to the battery electrical circuit, and a battery electrical connector in communication with the battery electrical circuit, wherein the battery electrical connector is engageable with the cable electrical connector when the supplementary battery is hooked to the cable to position the battery circuit in communication with the cable circuit.

[00414] Example 134 - The surgical instrument system of Example 133, wherein the cable compartment comprises a gripping portion, and wherein the battery compartment comprises a receptacle configured to receive the gripping portion.

[00415] Example 135 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 133 or 134, in which the cable further comprises a connector cover movable between a first position in which the connector cover inhibits accidental contact with the electrical cable connector and a second position in which the connector cover allows the battery electrical connector to be engaged with the cable electrical connector.

[00416] Example 136 - The surgical instrument system of Example 135, in which the battery compartment is configured to move the connector cover between the first position and the second position when the supplementary battery is attached to the cable.

[00417] Example 137 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 133, 134, 135 or 136, further comprising a plurality of drive shaft assemblies, wherein each drive shaft set is selectively engageable to the handle.

[00418] Example 138 - The surgical instrument system of Example 137, wherein at least one of the drive shaft assemblies comprises a stapling cartridge.

[00419] Example 139 - A surgical instrument comprising a compartment, a motor and a battery pack attachable to the surgical instrument compartment, wherein the battery pack comprises a battery cell configured to provide electrical energy to the motor and a battery compartment battery comprising a support compartment configured to support the battery cell, and a shock absorbing element configured to absorb a shock produced by an impact force, wherein the shock absorbing element is configured to deform when a force of impact is applied to the shock absorbing element.

[00420] Example 140 - The surgical instrument of Example 139, in which the shock absorbing element is replaceable.

[00421] Example 141 - The surgical instrument of Examples 139 or 140, in which the shock-absorbing element comprises a fastening means configured to allow the shock-absorbing element to be fastened to the battery pack in a snap-on mode by pressure.

[00422] Example 142 - The surgical instrument of Example 141, wherein the attachment means comprises an adhesive.

[00423] Example 143 - The surgical instrument of Examples 141 or 142, in which the battery compartment further comprises an opening, and in which the attachment means comprises a protrusion configured to be received by the opening in the battery compartment in a manner of wedge fit.

[00424] Example 144 - The surgical instrument of Examples 139, 140, 141, 142 or 143, wherein the shock absorbing element comprises a lattice structure.

[00425] Example 145 - The surgical instrument of Examples 139, 140, 141, 142, 143 or 144, in which, when the shock absorbing element deforms, the shock absorbing element deforms in an inward direction, which also allows the attachment of the battery pack to the surgical instrument compartment after the shock absorbing element has suffered an impact.

[00426] Example 146 - The surgical instrument of Examples 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144 or 145, in which the shock-absorbing element deforms when the impact force is greater than a threshold force.

[00427] Example 147 - The surgical instrument of Examples 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145 or 146, wherein the battery pack further comprises a plurality of corners, wherein the battery compartment further comprises a plurality of shock absorbing elements, and wherein the plurality of shock absorbing elements are positioned at each corner.

[00428] Example 148 - The surgical instrument of Example 147, in which the battery compartment comprises an electrical contact configured to transmit electrical energy from the battery cell to the motor and a bottom face associated with the electrical contact, in which each element of shock absorption comprises an end portion that extends beyond the bottom face of the battery compartment to protect electrical contact.

[00429] Example 149 - The surgical instrument of Examples 148 or 149, wherein each shock absorbing element comprises a lower end and an upper end, and wherein the battery pack further comprises a shock absorbing cap positioned at the ends tops of the shock absorbing elements.

[00430] Example 150 - A battery pack for use with a surgical instrument, in which the battery pack comprises a battery cell, an electrical contact configured to transmit the electrical energy supplied by the battery cell to the surgical instrument when the set of batteries is secured to the surgical instrument, a first compartment configured to support the battery cell, a second compartment configured to house the first compartment, and a shock absorbing layer positioned between the first compartment and the second compartment, where the layer shock absorber comprises a crosshatch structure.

[00431] Example 151 - The battery pack of Example 150, wherein the shock absorbing layer comprises a foam-like material.

[00432] Example 152 - The battery pack of Examples 150 or 151, in which the lattice structure comprises a plurality of cells, in which the plurality of cells comprises an inner cell comprising a flat inner wall, in which the inner wall The flat outer wall is oriented at least substantially parallel to the first compartment, and an outer cell comprising a flat outer wall, wherein the flat outer wall is oriented at least substantially parallel to the second compartment.

[00433] Example 153 - The battery pack of Examples 150, 151 or 152, wherein the battery pack further comprises a shock-absorbing cap, wherein the shock-absorbing cap comprises an outer reticle and an inner reticle, where the outer grid is denser than the inner grid.

[00434] Example 154 - The battery pack of Examples 150, 151, 152 or 153, wherein the shock absorbing layer comprises a plurality of damping elements.

[00435] Example 155 - A battery pack for use with a surgical instrument, wherein the battery pack comprises a battery cell configured to supply power to the surgical instrument and a compartment comprising a heat-reflecting casing, a layer of heat sink, and a compressible layer positioned between the heat sink layer and the heat reflective wrap, wherein the compressible layer is configured to flex in response to expansion of the battery cell.

[00436] Example 156 - The battery pack of Example 155, in which the compressible layer is additionally configured to dissipate the impact energy absorbed by the heat-reflecting wrap.

[00437] Example 157 - The battery pack of Examples 155 or 156, wherein the compressible layer comprises a lattice structure.

[00438] Example 158 - The battery pack of Example 157, in which the lattice structure is a closed lattice structure defined by the heat-reflecting wrapper and the heat sink layer.

[00439] Example 159 - The battery pack of Examples 155, 156, 157 or 158, in which the heat-reflecting casing comprises a first coefficient of thermal expansion, in which the heat sink layer comprises a second coefficient of thermal expansion , and where the first coefficient of thermal expansion is less than the second coefficient of thermal expansion.

[00440] The complete descriptions of the following documents are incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties: • US Patent No. 5,403,312, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE, which was granted on April 4, 1995; • US Patent No. 7,000,818, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, which was granted on February 21, 2006; • US Patent No. 7,422,139, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK, which was granted on September 9, 2008; • US Patent No. 7,464,849, entitled ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS, which was granted on December 16, 2008; • US Patent No. 7,670,334, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN ARTICULATING END EFFECTOR, which was granted on March 2, 2010; • US Patent No. 7,753,245, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS, which was granted on July 13, 2010; • US Patent No. 8,393,514, entitled SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE, which was issued on March 12, 2013; • US Patent Application Serial No. 11/343,803 entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES; now patent no. U.S. 7,845,537; • US Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,573 entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES, filed on February 14, 2008; • U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,873, entitled END EFFECTORS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT, filed February 15, 2008, now U.S. patent. No. 7,980,443; • US Patent Application Serial No. 12/235,782 entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT, now US Patent 8,210,411; • US Patent Application Serial No. 12/249,117, titled POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM, now US Patent No. 8,608,045; • U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12/647,100, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ASSEMBLY, filed on December 24, 2009; now US Patent No. 8,220,688; • U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12/893,461, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE, filed September 29, 2012, now U.S. patent. No. 8,733,613; • U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/036,647, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT, filed February 28, 2011, now U.S. patent. No. 8,561,870; • US Patent Application Serial No. 13/118,241 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0298719; • U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/524,049, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE, filed on June 15, 2012; now published U.S. patent application No. 2013/0334278; • US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,025 entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on March 13, 2013; • US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on March 13, 2013; • Publication of U.S. patent application No. 2007/0175955, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM, filed on January 31, 2006; and • US Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0264194 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR, filed April 22, 2010, now US Patent No. 8,308,040.

[00441] Although various embodiments of the devices have been described herein in connection with certain disclosed embodiments, many modifications and variations of these embodiments can be implemented. In addition, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may be used. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, a single component can be replaced by multiple components and multiple components can be replaced by a single component to perform one or more specified functions. The aforementioned description and the following claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations.

[00442] The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be discarded after a single use, or can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device can be refurbished for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include any combination of the steps of disassembling the device, followed by cleaning or replacing specific parts and subsequent reassembly. In particular, the device can be disassembled and any number of parts or specific parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed, in any combination. By cleaning and/or replacing specific parts, the device can be reassembled for subsequent use in the refurbishment facility or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure. Those skilled in the art will understand that reconditioning a device can use a variety of techniques to disassemble, clean/replace, and reassemble. The use of such techniques and the resulting refurbished device are within the scope of the present application.

[00443] Preferably, the invention described herein will be processed before surgery. First, a new or used instrument is obtained and, if necessary, cleaned. The instrument can then be sterilized. In a sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed, sealed container, such as a plastic bag or TYVEK. The container and instrument are then placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, X-rays or high-energy electrons. Radiation kills bacteria in the instrument and container. The sterilized instrument can then be stored in a sterile container. The sealed container keeps the instrument sterile until it is opened in the medical unit.

[00444] Although this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is therefore intended that this application cover any variations, uses or adaptations of the invention using its general principles.

[00445] Any patent, publication or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, which is incorporated by way of reference to the present invention, is incorporated into the present invention only to the extent that the incorporated materials do not conflict with existing definitions, statements or other disclosure materials presented in this disclosure. Accordingly, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated by reference into the present invention. Any material, or portion thereof, incorporated herein by reference but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure materials presented herein, is incorporated herein only to the extent that there is no conflict between the material incorporated and existing promotional material.

Claims (6)

1. Surgical instrument system, characterized in that it comprises: a handle (5510) comprising: a handle housing (5512); a cable battery cell (5470) positioned in the cable compartment (5512); a cable electrical circuit (5513), wherein the cable battery cell (5470) is configured to supply power to the cable electrical circuit (5513); and a cable electrical connector (5516) in communication with the cable electrical circuit (5513); and a supplementary battery (5560) selectively engageable with the cable (5510), the supplementary battery (5560) comprising: a battery compartment (5562) engageable with the cable compartment (5512); a battery electrical circuit (5563); a supplementary battery cell (5570) positioned in the battery compartment (5562), wherein the supplementary battery cell (5570) is configured to supply power to the battery electrical circuit (5563); and a battery electrical connector (5566) in communication with the battery electrical circuit (5563), wherein the battery electrical connector (5566) is engageable with the cable electrical connector (5516) when the supplementary battery (5560) is engaged with the cable (5510) to bring the battery circuit (5563) into communication with the cable circuit (5513), the cable compartment (5512) comprising a gripping portion (5511) and the battery cell cable battery (5470) is positioned in the gripping portion. 2. Surgical instrument system according to claim 1, characterized in that the battery compartment comprises a receptacle (5561) configured to receive the gripping portion (5511). 3. Surgical instrument system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the cable (5510) further comprises a connector cover (5517) movable between a first position in which the connector cover inhibits contact accidental contact with the electrical cable connector (5516) and a second position in which the connector cover allows the battery electrical connector (5566) to engage with the electrical cable connector (5516). 4. Surgical instrument system, according to claim 3, characterized in that the battery compartment (5562) is configured to move the connector cover (5517) between the first position and the second position when the supplementary battery ( 5560) is attached to the cable. 5. Surgical instrument system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it further comprises a plurality of drive shaft assemblies, wherein each drive shaft set is selectively engageable with cable (5510) . 6. Surgical instrument system according to claim 5, characterized in that at least one of the drive shaft assemblies comprises a stapling cartridge.

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