BR112017018238B1 - SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND BATTERY PACK FOR USE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - Google Patents

Abstract

REINFORCED BATTERY FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT. The present disclosure relates to a battery pack that includes a compartment and one or more battery cells positioned in the compartment. The battery pack additionally comprises features configured to absorb impact force and protect the battery cells. The battery pack additionally comprises features configured to accommodate the thermal expansion of the battery cells.

Description

BACKGROUND

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

[002] A stapling instrument may include a pair of cooperating elongated jaw members, each jaw member being adapted to be inserted into a patient and positioned in relation to the tissue to be stapled and/or cut. In various embodiments, one of the jaw members can support a staple cartridge with at least two laterally spaced rows of staples contained therein, and the other jaw member can support an anvil with staple-forming pockets aligned with the rows of staples. in the staple cartridge. In general, the stapling instrument may additionally include a pusher bar and a knife blade that are slidable relative to the gripper member to sequentially eject staples from the staple cartridge through cam surfaces on the pusher bar and/or cam surfaces. on a wedge rail which is pushed by the push rod. In at least one embodiment, the cam surfaces may be configured to activate a plurality of staple drivers loaded 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 the U.S. patent. No. 7,794,475 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLES HAVING COMPRESSIBLE OR CRUSHABLE MEMBERS FOR SECURING TISSUE THEREIN AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTS FOR DEPLOYING THE SAME", the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[004] Several characteristics of the modalities described here, together with their advantages, can be understood according to the description presented below, considered together 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 perspective side 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 assembly of the cable module of Figure 1;

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

[010] Figure 6 is an exploded assembly view of a mechanical coupling system for operatively coupling the swivel drive systems of the cable module of Figure 1 to the drive systems of a detachable drive shaft module;

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

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

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

[014] Figure 10A is a graph showing differences between the tripping and retraction forces expected to be applied by the cable module of Figure 1 and the tripping and retraction forces actually applied by the cable module as a function of the drive shaft module travel;

[015] Figure 10B is a diagram of a process flow performed 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 trigger and the forces of retraction expected to be applied by the cable module of Figure 1 and the actual firing and retraction forces applied by the cable module;

[016] Figure 10C is a diagram of a process flow performed 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 energy expended by the cable module during usage, in the aggregate, and the energy expended by the cable module during each use;

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

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

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

[020] Figures 11C and 11D illustrate a sterilization tray into which a cable module and a detachable drive shaft module can be inserted for sterilization;

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

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

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

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

[025] 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 in the inspection station;

[026] 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 ;

[027] Figure 13B illustrates a process flow performed by the cable processor of the cable module of Figure 13A to determine when the cable module has reached its end of life based on a number of times a battery pack has been installed on the cable module;

[028] Figures 14A, 14B and 14C illustrate aspects of a cable module that detects the attachment of a detachable drive shaft module thereto;

[029] Figure 14D illustrates a cable module and a detachable drive shaft module, wherein the cable module detects the attachment of the detachable drive shaft module thereto;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[037] Figures 19A, 19B and 19C illustrate a charging station and a cable module, in which the charging station must charge a battery pack of the cable module;

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

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

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

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

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

[043] Figure 23A illustrates a cable module with a projection device that, when designed, prevents the cable module from being inserted into a sterilization tray;

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

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

[046] Figures 25A, 25B, 25C and 25D illustrate a cable module inspection station with one or more fans for drying the cable module;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[057] Figure 29E illustrates a process flow performed by a cable module charging station;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[066] 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;

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

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

[069] 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;

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

[071] 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;

[072] 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 detachable power cord in accordance with at least one modality;

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

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

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

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

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

[078] Corresponding reference characters indicate the corresponding parts across the various views. The exemplifications described herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention in any way.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[079] The applicant of the present application holds the following patent applications which were filed on the same date as the present application and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entirety: - US Patent Application Serial No. , entitled SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFE PARAMETER; Attorney document no. END7539USNP/140464; - US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INSPECTION STATION; attorney's document no. END7542USNP/140467; - US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO ASSESS WHETHER A PERFORMANCE PARAMETER OF THE SURGICAL APPARATUS IS WITHIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE BAND; Attorney's document no. END7547USNP/140472; - US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SURGICAL CHARGING SYSTEM THAT CHARGES AND/OR CONDITIONS ONE OR MORE BATTERIES; attorney's document no. END7545USNP/140470; - US Patent Application Serial No., entitled CHARGING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES EMERGENCY RESOLUTIONS FOR CHARGING A BATTERY; attorney's document no. END7543USNP/140468; - US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SYSTEM FOR MONITORING WHETHER A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT NEEDS TO BE SERVICED; attorney's document no. END7558USNP/140483; - US Patent Application Serial No., entitled POWER ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT; Attorney's document no. END7553USNP/140478; - US Patent Application Serial No., entitled ADAPTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE; attorney's document no. END7541USNP/140466; and - US Patent Application Serial No., entitled MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY; attorney's document no. END7544USNP/140469.

[080] The applicant of the present 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 No. 14/575,139, entitled DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,148, entitled LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITH ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTORS; - US Patent Application Serial No. 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 No. 14/575,143, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,117, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS; - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,154, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND IMPROVED FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS; - US Patent Application Serial No. 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.

[081] The applicant of the present 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 No. 13 /782,295, titled 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 OF 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 US Patent Application Publication 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. 2014/0246476.

[082] The applicant of the present application also holds the following patent applications which were filed on March 14, 2013 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties: - US Patent Application Serial No. 13 /803,097, entitled 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 US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263537; - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,053, entitled 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.

[083] The applicant of the present application also holds 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 US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263539.

[084] The applicant of the present application also holds the following patent applications which 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 No. 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 No. 14/226,116, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION; - US Patent Application Serial No. 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 No. 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 No. 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.

[085] The applicant of the present application also holds the following patent applications which were filed on September 5, 2014 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entirety: - US Patent Application Serial No. 14 /479,103, entitled CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE; - US Patent Application Serial No. 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 No. 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.

[086] The applicant of the present application also holds the following patent applications which were filed on April 9, 2014 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entirety: - 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 US Patent Application Publication 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, entitled MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENT FEATURES FOR ALIGNING ROTARY DRIVE SHAFTS WITH SURGICAL END EFFECTOR SHAFTS, now US Patent Application Publication 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.

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

[088] Numerous specific details are presented to provide a thorough understanding of the structure, function, fabrication and general use of the modalities as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components and elements have been described in detail so as not to obscure the modalities 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 can be understood that the specific structural and functional details disclosed in the present invention may be representative and illustrative. Variations and changes can be made to this, without deviating from the scope of embodiments.

[089] 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 system, device or surgical device 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 system, device or surgical device that "comprises", "has", "includes" or "contains" one or more features has those one or more

[090] More feature, but not limited to having only those one or more features.

[091] The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used in the present invention with reference to a physician who manipulates the handle portion of the surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the portion closest to the physician, and the term "distal" refers to the portion located away from the physician. It will also be understood that, for the sake of convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical", "horizontal", "upwards" and "downwards" 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.

[092] Various 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 numerous surgical procedures and applications, including, for example, in connection with open surgical procedures. As the present 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. Functional portions or end actuator portions of instruments may be inserted directly into a patient's body or may be inserted via an access device that has a working channel through which the end actuator and elongated drive shaft of a surgical instrument can be advanced.

[093] A surgical stapling system may comprise a drive shaft and an end actuator that extends from the drive shaft. The end actuator comprises a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw 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 jaw comprises an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge. The second jaw is pivotable with respect to the first jaw around a geometric axis of the lid; however, other embodiments are envisaged in which the first jaw is pivotable with respect to the second jaw. The surgical stapling system additionally comprises a pivot joint configured to allow the end actuator to be pivoted or pivoted with respect 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 an articulation joint.

[094] The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body. The cartridge body includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a platform that extends between the proximal end and the distal end. In use, the staple cartridge is positioned on a first side of the fabric to be stapled and the anvil is positioned on a second side of the fabric. The anvil is moved towards the staple cartridge to compress and hold the fabric against the platform. Thereafter, staples detachably stored in the cartridge body can be distributed to the fabric. The cartridge body includes staple cavities defined therein, the staples being removably stored in the staple cavities. The clamp 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 cavities are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of clamp cavities and clamps may be possible.

[095] The staples are held 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 which extends around the bottom of the cartridge body and includes resilient members configured to secure the cartridge body and retain the retainer in the cartridge body. Triggers are movable between their non-triggered positions and their slider-triggered positions. The slider is movable between a proximal position adjacent the proximal end and a distal position adjacent the distal end. The slider comprises a plurality of inclined surfaces configured to slide under the actuators and lift the actuators, and the clamps supported thereon, towards the anvil.

[096] In addition to the above, the slider is moved distally by a triggering member. The trigger member is configured to contact the slider and push the slider towards 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 firing member further comprises a first cam that engages the first jaw and a second cam that engages the second jaw. As the firing 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 firing member also comprises a knife configured to make an incision in the 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 in front of the knife.

[097] An end actuator can be configured to articulate with respect to the handle and/or shaft of a surgical instrument. For example, the end actuator may be pivotally and/or pivotally coupled to the shaft of the surgical instrument so that the end actuator is configured to rotate relative to the shaft and handle. In many cases, the end actuator can be configured to pivot at a pivot joint situated between the end actuator and the shaft. In other cases, the shaft may include a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a hinge joint, which may be located between the proximal position and the distal portion of the shaft, for example.

[098] Figures 1 to 5 illustrate aspects of a surgical instrument for cutting and fixation which, 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) drive shaft 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 in the 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. that is operationally supported in the DSM, and the second swivel drive system can be used, for example, to apply "trip" motions to a corresponding trip drive shaft assembly in the DSM that is coupled thereto. The various DSMs can be releasably and interchangeably connected to the compartment 12. Three example DSMs that can be connected to the cable module 10 in various modes are shown in Figure 1. The example DSMs shown include an open linear stapler DSM 1, a DSM 2 Curved Cut Stapler and a DSM 3 Circular Surgical Stapler. Other types of DSM that are adapted to drive systems 20, 40 of cable module 10 can also be used, including an endocutter DSM, which is described in detail in US Patent Application Serial No., MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY, Attorney 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 dual-drive surgical cutting and clamping instrument are provided in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,590 entitled MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVE SHAFTS, filed April 9, 2014, of this hereinafter, "the '590 application", which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[099] As shown in Figures 1 to 5, 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 compartment segments 16 and 18, which may be interconnected by screws, snap-fit features, stickers, etc. In the illustrated arrangement, the cable compartment segments 16, 18 cooperate to form a pistol grip portion 19 that can be grasped and manipulated by the clinician. Cable 14 operationally supports the two rotary drive systems 20, 40.

[0100] The first and second rotary drive systems 20, 40 may be powered by a motor 80 via a "displaceable" transmission assembly 60 which essentially shifts power/motion between two drive trains. The first rotary drive system 20 includes a first rotary drive shaft 22 which is pivotally supported in the housing 12 of the handle 14 and defines a first "FDA-FDA" drive shaft geometry. The first drive gear 24 is keyed over, or otherwise non-rotatically attached to the first rotary drive shaft 22 for rotation therewith about the first geometry axis of the FDA-FDA drive shaft. Similarly, the second rotary drive system 40 includes a second rotary drive shaft 42 which is pivotally supported in the housing 12 of the cable 14 and defines a second drive shaft geometry "SDA-SDA". In at least one arrangement, the second axis of the drive axis SDA-SDA is offset from, and parallel to, or substantially parallel to the first axis of the drive axis FDA-FDA. As used in this context, the term "displacement" 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 over, or otherwise non-rotatically 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 intermediate drive gear 46 with rotatably journal therein so that the intermediate drive gear 46 is freely rotatable about the second rotary drive shaft 42 about the second axis of the SDA-SDA drive shaft.

[0101] In one form, the motor 80 includes a motor output shaft 81 which has a motor drive gear 82 attached thereto. The motor drive gear 82 is configured to intersperse an "operable" engagement with the transmission assembly 60. In at least one form, the transmission assembly 60 includes a transmission carriage 62 that is supported for axial trajectory between the transmission gear 60. drive 82 and gears 44 and 46 on the second rotary drive shaft 42. For example, the transmission carriage 62 can be slidably swiveled on a support shaft 63 which is mounted within housing 12 on a shaft assembly 61 so that the line of action of the transmission car is perpendicular to the gear trains of the rotating drive systems. The shaft assembly 61 is configured to be rigidly supported within slots or other features within the cable module 10. The transmission carriage 62 includes a carriage gear 64 which is pivotally supported on the support shaft 63 and is configured for the selective meshing engagement with gears 44 and 46 although in driving engagement with driving gear 82. In the arrangement shown in Figures 1 to 5, the transmission carriage 6 is operatively attached to a shifter or "means for shifting" 70 which is configured to axially displace the transmission carriage 62 between a "first drive position" and a "second drive position". In one form, for example, the means for displacement 70 includes a shifter solenoid 71 that is supported within the housing 12 of the cable 14. The shifter solenoid 71 may comprise a bistable solenoid, or, for example, it may comprise a double position spring. The illustrated arrangement includes a spring 72 which forces the drive carriage 62 in the distal direction "DD" to the first drive position, the carriage gear 64 being in mesh with the intermediate drive gear 46 at the same time as is in meshed 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 first drive shaft 22.

[0102] The shifter solenoid 71 may be actuated by a firing trigger 90 which is pivotally supported over the housing 12 of the cable 14, as shown in Figures 1 to 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the firing trigger 90 is supported in a swiveling mode about an axis of the firing trigger 92 mounted on the handle 14. The firing trigger 90 is normally forced into a non-actuated position by a firing trigger spring 94, as shown in Figure 3. The firing trigger 90 is mounted for operable actuation of a trigger switch 96 that is operationally supported on a circuit board assembly 100 housed in compartment 12 of cable module 10. In the illustrated arrangement, actuation of 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 direction "DP" to thereby move carriage gear 64 into engagement with second gear. the drive gear 44. The drive of the motor 80, when the carriage gear 64 is in meshed engagement with the drive gear 82 and the second drive gear 44, will result in the second drive shaft 42 rotating about the second axis. geometry of the "SDA" drive shaft. The shiftable transmission assembly 60 may also include an indicator system 74 that includes a pair of keys 75 and 76 that are operatively coupled to the control board 100, as well as a transmission indicator light 77. Keys 75, 76 serve to detect the position of the transmission car 62, which results in the indicator light 77 being activated by the control system, depending on the position of the transmission car 62. For example, the indicator light 77 can be energized when the transmission car 62 is in the first drive position. This provides the clinician with an indication that actuation of the motor 80 will result in the activation of the first actuation system 20.

[0103] Motor 80 may 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 wireless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor, including autoclavable motors. Motor 80 may be powered by a power supply 84 which, in one form, may comprise a power supply unit 86 which is removably stored in the pistol grip portion 19 of the handle 14. To access the power unit 86, the physician removes a removable cap 17 which is attached to the bottom of the pistol grip portion 19. The power unit 86 may operatively support a plurality of battery cells (not shown) therein. Each of the battery cells may comprise, for example, a lithium-ion ("LI") battery or other suitable type of battery. Power unit 86 is configured for operationally removable attachment to control circuit board assembly 100 of cable module 10, which is also operatively coupled to motor 80 and mounted within cable 14. Power unit 86 may comprise a number of battery cells connected in series that can serve as the power supply for the surgical instrument. Furthermore, the power source 84 may be replaceable and/or rechargeable and, in at least one case, may include CR123 batteries, for example.

[0104] The motor 80 may be driven by a "trigger-oscillator" 110 which is pivotally mounted to the pistol grip portion 19 of the handle 14. The oscillator trigger 110 is configured to actuate a first switch of the motor 112, which is operatively coupled to the control board 100. The first motor switch 112 may comprise a pressure switch which is actuated by swiveling the rocker trigger 110 in contact therewith. Actuation of the first switch of motor 112 will result in the actuation of motor 80 so that the drive gear 82 rotates in a first rotary direction. A second motor switch 114 is also secured to circuit board 100 and mounted for selective contact by oscillator trigger 110. Actuation of second motor switch 114 will result in motor 80 being driven such that drive gear 82 is rotated in one direction. second direction. For example, in use, a polarity of the voltage supplied by the power supply 84 can operate the electric motor 80 in a clockwise direction, whereas the polarity of voltage applied to the electric motor by the battery can be reversed so as to operate the electric motor 80 in a clockwise direction. anticlockwise. Cable 14 may also include a sensor that is configured to detect the directions in which the drive systems are being moved.

[0105] The compartment 12 may also comprise a surgical instrument contact plate 30 mounted thereon. Correspondingly, the various DSMs (eg DSMs 1, 2, 3) can include a corresponding DSM contact card (see Figures 34 to 60 of order '590). The DSM contact plate can be positioned on the DSM so that when the DSM is operatively coupled to the cable module 10, the end actuator contact plate is electrically coupled to a cable module contact plate 30 mounted on the cable. cable module 10. In this way, data and/or electrical power can be transferred between cable module 10 and the DSM via the corresponding contact plates.

[0106] 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 in the cable module 10 to the corresponding "driven" shafts in the DSMs. The coupling system 50 may comprise male couplers that can be attached to the drive shafts in the cable module 10 and corresponding female socket couplers that are attached to the driven shafts in the surgical DSM. Each of the male couplers 51 is configured to be driveably received within corresponding female socket couplers 57 which may also be attached to driven shafts within the DSM.

[0107] Arrangements for driving the drive systems 20, 40 are disclosed in application '590, including that the cable module 10 may include multiple motors.

[0108] Figure 7 is a block diagram of a motor-driven modular 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. Electrical subsystem components 2106 of cable portion 2102 are supported by the above-described control board 100, and may be connected to it. Communications and power interface 2110 is configured so that electrical signals and/or power can be easily exchanged between cable portion 2102 and drive shaft portion 2104.

[0109] In the illustrated example, the electrical subsystem 2106 of the cable module 2102 is electrically coupled to the various electrical elements 2112 and a screen 2114. In one example, the screen 2114 is an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen, although the 2114 display should not be limited to that context and other display technologies may be used. The electrical subsystem 2108 of the DSM 2104 is electrically coupled to various electrical elements 2116 of the DSM 2104.

[0110] In one aspect, the electrical subsystem 2106 of the cable module 2102 comprises a solenoid driver 2118, an accelerometer system 2120, a controller/motor driver 2122, a cable processor 2124, a voltage regulator 2126, and is configured to receive input from a plurality of sensor switches 2128 which can be located on the DSM and/or the cable. The 2124 cable processor can be a general purpose microcontroller suitable for medical and surgical instrument applications. In one example, the 2124 cable processor might be a TM4C123BH6ZRB microcontroller, available from Texas Instruments, which comprises 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 chips/circuits (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, may 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.

[0111] 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 trigger position switch 2136, a motor 2138 , a battery pack 2140, an OLED interface board 2142 (which drives the display 2114), and various switches such as an opening switch 2144 (which indicates if the closing trigger is open), a closing switch 2146 (which indicates whether the close trigger is closed) and a trigger switch 2148 (which indicates whether the trigger switch is on or not). Engine 2138 may represent engine 80 in Figures 2 to 5.

[0112] 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 which 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 2150 clamp open state switch (which indicates whether the end actuator clamp is open), a 2152 clamp closed state switch (which indicates whether the end actuator clamp is closed), a 2154 start-of-firing status switch (which indicates whether the end-actuator has started firing), and a 2156 end-of-firing status switch (which indicates that the end actuator has ended the trigger), so that the various switches indicate the states of the gripper and the cutting element.

[0113] The 2120 accelerometer system may include a MEMS motion sensor that detects a 3-axis motion of cable module 10, such as a LIS331DLM accelerometer, available from STMicroelectronics. The 2122 motor controller/driver may comprise a three-phase brushless DC controller (BLDC) and a MOSFET driver, such as the A3930 motor controller/driver obtained from Allegro, for example. In one aspect, the 2100 modular motor-driven surgical instrument is equipped with a 2138 brushless DC electric motor (BLDC motor, BL motor), also known as an electronically commutated motor (ECM, EC motor). One such motor is the BLDC Motor B0610H4314 available from Portescap. The 2128 sensor switches can include one or more Hall-effect type sensors 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 2140 battery). 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 (a "package"). The OLED 2142 interface is an interface for the OLED 2114 display comprising organic light-emitting diodes.

[0114] In one aspect, the DSM 2130 processor of the 2108 electrical subsystem of the DSM 2104 can be implemented as a 16-bit ultra-low power mixed-signal MCU, such as the ultra-low power MSP430 FR5738 MCU obtained from Texas Instruments. It can comprise, among other things, internal non-volatile RAM, a CPU, an A/D converter, a 16-channel comparator and three enhanced serial channels that use the I2C, SPI or UART protocols. Subsystem 2108 may also comprise one or more separate external memory chips/circuits connected to the DSM processor 2130 via a data bus.

[0115] More details on the exemplifying electrical subsystem for the cable and DSMs 2102, 2104 can be found in order '590. In operation, electrical subsystem 2106 of cable module 2102 receives signals from opening switch 2144, closing switch 2146 and tripping switch 2148 supported in a compartment of cable module portion 2102 (e.g. compartment 12) . When a signal is received from the closing switch 2146, the cable processor 2124 operates the motor 2138 to initiate the closing of the clamping arm. When the gripper is closed, the gripper closed state switch 2152 on the end actuator sends a signal to the axis processor 2130 which communicates the state of the grip arm to the cable processor 2124 via the communications and power interface 2110 .

[0116] When the target tissue is secured, the trigger switch 2148 can be actuated to generate a signal that is received by the cable processor 2124. In response, the cable processor 2124 drives the transmission carriage to its second position drive so that the drive of the 2138 motor will result in the rotation of a second drive shaft. When the cutting member is in place, the trigger start status 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.

[0117] The trigger of the first switch 2148 sends a signal once again to the cable processor 2138 which, in response, triggers the second trigger system and trigger system in the DSM to trigger the tissue cutting member and assembly triangular body slider distally through the surgical staple cartridge. After the tissue cutting member and triangular body slider assembly are driven to their most distal positions on the surgical staple cartridge, the 2156 trigger end switch sends a signal to the 2130 DSM processor that communicates the firing position. back to cable processor 2124 via interface 2110. Trigger switch 2148 can now be activated to send a signal to cable processor 2124, which operates motor 2138 in reverse rotation to return the trigger to its starting position.

[0118] The opening switch drive 2144 sends a signal once again to the cable processor 2124 which operates the motor 2138 to open the gripper. Once open, the gripper open state switch 2150 located on the end actuator sends a signal to the axis processor 2130 that communicates the gripper position to the cable processor 2124. The grip position switch 2134 and position switch triggers 2136 provide signals to cable processor 2124 that indicate the respective positions of the gripping arm and cutting member.

[0119] Figure 8 is a diagram of a process flow that can be executed by the cable processor 2124 in various cases by executing software and/or firmware instructions for the cable processor 2124 stored in the internal memory of the processor and /or on an external memory chip/circuit connected to cable processor 2124. In step 202, cable processor 2124 monitors input signals provided by sensors of instrument 2100 for so-called "lifetime events". Lifetime events are events or actions involving the 2102 cable module and/or the 2104 DSM, whereby the 2102 cable module must be withdrawn (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 2102 cable module and/or the 2104 DSM that can and are detected by the instrument 2100. For example, the open switch 2144, the close switch 2146 and the trip switch 2148 of the cable module 2102 can be coupled to the cable processor 2124. In addition to or in place 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 end of trip switch 2156 in the DSM 2104 can be coupled to the cable processor 2124 (via the 2110 interface). A lifetime event can occur and can be counted when some or all of these respective switches are activated and/or activated in a particular sequence detected by the 2124 cable processor, depending on the application design of the 2102 cable module and 2100 instrument. For example, in various modalities, 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 lifetime event and a detected trigger may comprise a different second lifetime event. In other implementations, a sequence of a pincer close followed by a trigger may count as a lifetime event. Also, 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.

[0120] The 2124 cable processor keeps a count of lifetime events. When a time to live event is detected, the cable processor 2124 increments the current value of the time to live event counter in its internal memory or in its external memory in step 204. The counter may be a count up counter, where the count is increased by one unit (increment of +1) when a lifetime event occurs, until a pre-set threshold is reached; or the counter may be a countdown counter, where the count is decreased 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 2102 manufacturer in view of the particular sensor events that count as lifetime events.

[0121] If the time-to-life event counter reaches the time-to-life event threshold pre-set in step 206, the cable processor 2124 may initiate one or more end-of-life actions at step 208, such as making the screen 2114 of the 2102 cable module or some other display (e.g. a mechanical counter visible to the user), e.g. in communication with the 2124 cable processor, indicates that the 2102 cable module is worn out (end of life) and must be removed. Any visual, tactile and/or audible indication can be used. For example, screen 2114 may include an icon and/or text indicating that the cable module's end of life has been reached. The 2114 display can also indicate that the count of lifetime events on a continuous basis, as a numeric display or a volume indicator (full, nearly empty, etc.) for example, so that the user can monitor the possibility of the cable module is approaching the end of its life cycle. In addition to or in place of a constant display of the count of life events, the 2114 display may have an icon and/or may use text to show that the cable module is approaching the end of its life (for example, " N uses remaining"). The 2124 cable processor may also initiate conditions that prevent further use of the 2102 cable module 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 count-of-life events until the end-of-life threshold is reached.

[0122] Several 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 axes: one to drive the closing system and one to drive the tripping system (each driven by one of the drive 20, 40 respectively), for example. Each drive axis can drive a carriage forward during a pinch or trip event, respectively. In this way, the closing and/or tripping systems can 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) can be coupled to the cable processor 2124, and the cable processor 2124 can record a count of lifetime events when it receives a signal from the switch (or switches) that it has been activated. The switches can be automatically reactivatable push-button switches that are reactivated each time they are brought into contact with - and actuated - by the carriage driven by the drive shaft.

[0123] In addition to the above, Order '590 describes that DSMs 1 through 3 may include a pair of trigger screws to trigger the closing and triggering systems of several different types of DSMs. Examples of such drive screw pairs are shown in the '590 application in Figures 34 to 37 thereof in relation to an open linear stapler, in Figures 38 to 41 thereof in relation to a curved-cut stapler, and in Figures 42 to 45 thereof in relation to a circular surgical stapler. Other types of DSM that are adapted to the cable module can also be used, such as 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 when the various types of DSMs are used and triggered. For example, in one instance, the 2124 cable processor can calculate a progressively cumulative lifetime event score that differently weights usage by different DSMs (depending on the effort they apply to the cable module, for example) and compares 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 lifetime event score based on the following relationship:

[0124] where i = 1,... N represents the different types of DMS that can be used with the cable module (e.g. endocutter, open linear, circular, curved, right angle stapler, etc.), WI is a weighting factor for DSM type i over procedures j = 1 involving DSM type i. DSM types that apply less stress overall on the cable module may have a lower weight W than DSM types that apply more stress overall on 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.

[0125] Figure 9 illustrates an example process flow that the cable processor 2124 can execute to calculate a time-to-life event score and/or compare the time-to-life event score to a threshold score. In such cases, cable processor 2124 may run firmware and/or software stored in internal and/or external memory, for example. Assuming that the cable module scoring 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 2130 processor when the DSM is connected to the cable module and/or when the cable processor is cable 2124 and the DSM processor 2130 establish a data connection to 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 (eg, endocutter, circular, etc.) that is attached to the cable module. Next, in step 252, the cable processor 2124 tracks the number of times the cable module is fired during the surgical procedure. The 2124 Cable Processor can track the number of times the cable was fired by tracking the number of times the fire trigger was activated and/or by tracking feedback from the DSM, such as indications that the end actuator cartridge was replaced, for example.

[0126] After the procedure and/or at any other suitable time, now with reference to step 254, the cable processor 2124 can update the cable processor lifetime event score by adding the score from the just-completed procedure to that of the previous procedure. The score for the procedure just completed can be based on multiplying the weight for the type of DSM used in procedure Wi and the number of trips in procedure S. The 2124 cable processor can determine the weight for the type Wi DSM by looking for if weighting in a lookup 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 with the pre-established scoring threshold to determine if the cable module is at the end of its useful life. If the threshold has been reached, the process advances 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.

[0127] The loading conditions experienced by the instrument can be used to track the use of both the cable module and the DSM to assess whether one or both the cable module and the DSM should be removed. Such a case might involve comparing the force actually exerted by the instrument to drive the triggering member of the end actuator with the force the instrument should experience, for example. Similarly, the force actually exerted to retract the triggering member can be compared to the force the instrument should experience to assess whether the cable module and/or DSM should be removed. The cable module can be rated for a threshold number of trips based on the levels of force that the cable module should experience. Similarly, the DSM can be classified as to a threshold number of shots based on the levels of force the DSM should experience. The cable module threshold number and 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 the case may be, may determine that the cable module and/or or DSM must be removed before reaching the expected number of shots.

[0128] In some cases, in addition to the above, the force exerted by a cable module and/or DSM may be constant over 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 firing. In either case, the force exerted by the lever module and/or the force that 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 that the DSM is expected to exert may be a function of the position of the firing limb. A specific type of DSM may have an expected firing force that is correlated to the DSM's firing stroke along the entire length of the DSM, i.e. the distance between the firing member's initial position and its end-of-stroke position. . The DSM may also have an expected retraction force that is correlated with the DSM's retraction stroke along the entire length of the DSM, i.e., the distance between the firing member's end-of-travel position and its initial position. Figure 10 shows an example of the forces expected for a DSM type. The upper curve 270 shows the expected trigger forces as the trigger member passes through the end actuator from its home position to its end-of-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 specific example, the expected firing forces are greater than the expected retraction forces.

[0129] For each shot, in addition to the above, cable module and/or DSM processors can track the force exerted per unit increment of distance (eg, 1 millimeter) of stroke length. In addition, cable module and/or DSM processors can track the force exerted by each distance increment of stroke length and then compare actual forces with expected forces to see 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 retracting stroke forces. In this diagram, for the sake of simplicity in the illustration, all the measured forces exceeded the expected force, and only the difference between the measured force and the expected force is shown by the line segments 274 for the firing course and the 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.

[0130] Figure 10B is a diagram of an example process flow executed by the cable module processor and/or the DSM processor upon execution of firmware and/or software stored in the cable module and/or DSM memory , as the case may be. Now with reference 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 (denoted ΔL below) along the firing stroke and/or the instrument retraction. For example, the cumulative force difference for a firing stroke and a subsequent retraction stroke can be calculated based on the following relationship:

[0131] where EOS represents the end-of-course location; F_(m,f, ΔL) and F_(e,f,ΔL) represent the measured and expected firing 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 can then accumulate the force differences by summing the accumulated force differences per shot for each of the shots that the cable module and/or the DSM have experienced.

[0132] With respect to 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 the force differences after each firing and retraction 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 one procedure there were seven (7) triggers, then the processor sums the result of step 280 for each of the seven triggers. Then, in step 284, the cable can update the total accumulated force differences for the cable module and/or DSM, as appropriate, by adding the accumulated force differences for the procedure just completed to the total prior to the newly terminated procedure (or zero in the case of the first procedure in the module). In step 286, the processor may then compare the updated total of accumulated force difference to a threshold. If the threshold has been reached or otherwise satisfied, the process advances to step 288, where end-of-life action is taken for the cable module or DSM, as appropriate. On the other hand, if, in 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, can be used again.

[0133] 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 their 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 DSM, as the case may be, against a threshold count 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 appropriate, starts at step 288. On the other hand, if the procedure count threshold procedure has not yet been reached, the process advances to step 290, where the cable module and/or 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.

[0134] In various embodiments, the cable processor can perform calculations for both the cable module and the DSM and then communicate the results to 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 calculations for both the cable module and the DSM and then communicate the results to 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.

[0135] Figure 10C illustrates, together with Figures 10D and 10E, another example process flow that the cable processor can employ to monitor if 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, of which an example graph is shown in Figure 10D. Figure 10D represents the aggregate or accumulated energy spent by the cable module as a function of the uses, or trips, of the cable module. In addition to or in lieu of the above, the process illustrated in Figure 10C can determine if the cable module has reached its end of life based on the power used during each cable module trip, of which an example graph is shown in Figure 10E . Figure 10E represents the power consumed for each cable module trip. In at least one particular embodiment, the processor, during the implementation of the example process of Figure 10C, monitors if the energy expended by the cable module, in the aggregate, exceeds several thresholds (see Figure 10D) and, concomitantly, if the cable module had a certain number of trips above a 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 life. In certain cases, the cable processor may use any number of multifactor tests, with thresholds for each test, to determine if a cable module is at the end of its life. In at least one case, the cable processor may determine that it has reached the end of its useful life if any test threshold is reached or exceeded.

[0136] After a procedure, the cable processor can perform the process of Figure 10C by executing 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. In step 290, the cable processor may compare the accumulated power of the cable module over its lifetime to a first threshold power level, i.e., Power 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 cable module's motor (or motors) to measure and record the electrical parameters of the motor (or motors) so that the motor's power and energy outputs ( or engines) can be determined. If the first threshold power level has been reached or exceeded, i.e. Power Level 1, the cable processor can determine in step 291 that the cable module is at the end of its life and initiate action. end-of-life actions, such as one or more end-of-life actions described here, for example.

[0137] If the cable processor determines that the first threshold power level, i.e., Power Level 1, has not been reached in step 290, the process proceeds to step 292, where the cable module determines if a second (eg lower) power threshold has been reached, ie Power Level 2 in Figure 10D. Energy Level 2 might be 30 kJ, for example. If the second threshold power level has been reached or exceeded (without reaching or exceeding the first threshold power level), the process advances to step 293, where the cable processor determines whether the cable module has been subjected to a certain number of trips over its lifetime that exceed a first threshold power level, for example, two trips greater than 55 Watts (see Figure 10E). If the second threshold power level has been reached or exceeded and the threshold power level has been reached or exceeded the predetermined number of times, the cable processor may determine that the cable module is at the end of its 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 even though the second power level of threshold has been reached or exceeded. The dual factors of steps 292 and 293 can be another test of cable module life, and if the cable module fails both tests (i.e., either thresholds or conditions are met), it can be determined that the cable module is at the end of its life.

[0138] The cable processor can perform 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 can proceed to step 294, where the cable module determines whether a third (e.g., even lower) power threshold, i.e., the Energy 3, has been hit. Energy Level 3 might be 25 kJ, for example. If the third threshold power level has been reached or exceeded (without reaching or exceeding the third threshold power level), the process advances to step 295, where the cable processor determines whether the cable module has had a certain number of trips over its lifetime (preferably greater than the number of trips verified in step 293) that exceeded 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 cable module life, 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 the end of its life and can be used in a subsequent procedure.

[0139] It should be evident that the steps in Figure 10C can be performed in several orders, achieving the same result. For example, steps 294 and 295 can be performed before step 290 and so on.

[0140] According to current best practice, a cable module must be sterilized before being used to perform the surgical procedure. In many cases, the cable module is placed in a sterilization tray which is then placed in a sterilization chamber. In addition to or in lieu of the described ways to track cable module end-of-life, the number of times the cable module is placed in a sterilization tray for sterilization can be used to track end-of-life for the cable module. 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 may have a visual readout screen that can show the number of times the cable module has been sterilized if a count-up counter is used, or the number of sterilizations remaining, or allowed, when a count-down 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 placements in the tray of other cable modules. Consequently, the cable module and sterilization tray can be supplied together, as a kit, for example, and can include identifiers (eg numbers or icons) that show that they are to be used together. The cable module and the DSM can be sterilized separately or together, for example.

[0141] Figure 11A represents an exemplary sterilization tray 300 and a cable module 302 that is positionable on 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. The recess 304 is configured to closely receive the cable module 302 so that there is little, if any, relative movement possible therebetween. Sterilization tray 300 includes a stroke counter 306 that has a lever arm 308 that extends into the opening. Stroke counter 306 additionally includes a counter visual readout display 310. When the user places the cable module 302 in the opening 304, the end of the lever arm 308 is pressed, toggled, or actuated, which is recorded as a count. , thus incrementing stroke counter 306 by one (+1) for a count up counter (or -1 for a count down counter), which is displayed on readout 310. To reduce false toggles or triggers 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.

[0142] Figures 11C and 11D represent a variation where a cable module 302 can be placed in a sterilization tray 300 with a DSM 312. Cable module 302 is similar to cable module 10 in many respects and the DSM 312 represents an exemplary 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. In such an arrangement, the cable module 302 and DSM 312 must be sterilized only in a tray of specific sterilization 300, so that their respective sterilizations can be accurately followed. Cable module counter 312 displays the number of times cable module 302 has been sterilized in sterilization tray 300 and/or the number of sterilizations remaining. The DSM 324 counter shows the number of times the DSM 312 was sterilized in the sterilization tray 300 and/or the number of sterilizations remaining. The cable module 302 can be sterilized without the DSM 312 and vice versa, in which case their respective counts may not be equal.

[0143] 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 bulge 340 that extends upward from the bottom of the opening 304 in the sterilization tray. The bulge 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 mechanism 344 having a portion extending into opening 342 defined by handle 302 when key 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 protuberance 340 so that the protuberance 340 pushes the key 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 an internal and/or external processor memory of the cable module) when switch 344 is moved from the first position (Figure 11F) to the second position (Figure 11G). In such an embodiment, the cable module 302 may comprise a power supply, as described herein, to power the cable processor and to update the sterilization count during sterilization. Such a power supply may comprise a secondary battery that is not removed from the cable module even if a primary battery is removed from the cable module 302. The cable processor may compare the sterilization count to 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. The 344 switch can remain in the "triggered" or "enabled" state until it is later reset, such as after the sterilization process (see Figure 36). Key 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. 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 protuberance 340 so that the protuberance 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. The key switch 348 may be forced back to its open position (Figure 11H) by a spring, for example, when the handle 302 is removed from the tray 300 and pressure being applied to the key switch 348 by the inserted protrusion 340 is removed.

[0144] In addition to or in lieu of the above-described ways 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's 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 to the inspection station after (i) post-operative cleaning of reusable components of the cable module after a procedure (which usually involves 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 room temperature the component or instrument, for example. The placement of the cable module in the inspection station may be a substitute 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 in relation to 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 (eg, disables the cable module) when the cable module has reached the end of its life.

[0145] In addition to the above, Figures 12A and 12B illustrate an example inspection station 400 and a cable module 402. Cable module 402 is similar to cable module 10 in many respects. Figure 12A shows cable module 402 before being placed in inspection station 400 and Figure 12B shows cable module 402 after being placed in position in inspection station 400. Similar to other embodiments disclosed herein, 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 to 5. As also disclosed elsewhere in this document, the battery pack is readily insertable and removable with respect to battery cavity 403. Figure 12A also shows that the battery pack is removed from cable module 402, thereby exposing battery cavity 403 before battery module 402 is placed in inspection system 400. Inspection station 400 comprises an insertable element, or a data adapter 404, which extends therefrom and which 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 cable module 404. cable through power contacts configured to mate with the battery pack power terminals and/or through one or more signal contacts positioned in battery cavity 403, as shown written in more detail below. Cable module 402 can be positioned on inspection station 400 by sliding opening 403 over data/power adapter 404.

[0146] 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 of the cable module 402 in a manner similar to or the same as in which the battery pack supplies voltage to the voltage regulator 432 when the battery pack is positioned in the slot 403. For example, if a battery pack is configured to supply DC 6 V to voltage regulator 432, insertable element 404 can be configured to supply 6V DC to voltage regulator 432, for example. The voltage regulator 432 supplies electrical power to the control board 100 (see Figures 1 to 6) of the cable module 402 to power the components of the control board 100, including a cable processor 434 and the associated internal and/or external memory. 436, for example. The inspection station 400 itself can be powered from an AC power supply via a 437 power cord using AC-DC converters. Inspection station 400 includes data ports 438 that contact data ports 440 of cable module 402 when cable module 402 is engaged with inspection station 400 so that cable processor 434 can be in communication with the inspection station processor 442. As the reader will observe, the inspection station 400 may further include an internal and/or external memory 444 associated with the inspection station processor 442.

[0147] Figure 12D is a diagram of a process flow that can be performed by cable processor 434 and/or inspection station processor 442 while running software and/or firmware in cable memory 436 and/or in 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 cable module 402 is installed in inspection device 400 so that insertable element 404 makes data and power connections to control board 100 of cable module 402, cable processor 434 may increment an inspection counter. The inspection counter can be a count-up counter from zero to a pre-set threshold number of inspections or a count-down counter from the pre-set number of inspections to zero. In at least one case, the cable module 402 includes an inspection station insertion switch 446 (Figure 12C) that is activated when the data/power adapter 404 is fully and properly inserted into the opening 403. This switch 446 may be in communication with cable processor 434 via control board 100, and when switch 446 is pressed in step 420 of Figure 12D, cable processor 434 may increment (by +1 or -1, as the case may be, depending on the counter type) the inspection counter at step 422. At step 424, the cable processor 434 can 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.

[0148] Referring to Figure 12E, inspection station 400 may include a visual screen 448 that displays visual information related to inspection counter, such as the number of times cable 402 has been placed in 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 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 show 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 to 434 disables further use of the 402 cable module. For example, the instruction string may instruct the 434 cable processor to, thereafter, never drive the 402 cable module motor or some other disable action. For example, the instruction string may instruct the cable processor to set a flag that, when set, prevents the cable processor 434 from driving the motor.

[0149] In various embodiments, inspection station insertion switch 446 may be a push switch that is activated when data/power adapter 404 is fully inserted into opening 403 and resets when data/power adapter 404 is removed, or at least partially removed, from the opening 403. In various aspects, there may be a timer associated with the inspection station insert key 446, so 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 not likely to be associated with the inspection or post-procedure sterilization of the cable module 402.

[0150] In another variation, the inspection station 400 includes a pressure switch with a counter whose readout 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 may 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. Each time the inspection station pressure switch is activated, the counter can be updated (e.g. incremented by one) so that the readout displays the number of times the 402 cable module has been inserted into the inspection system 400. This counter can be a mechanical counter and/or an electrical counter, for example. If the threshold, or threshold, is displayed on inspection station 400, displayed on cable module 402, and/or otherwise published to the user, the user can know whether the threshold has been reached or is being approached. In at least one case, the threshold can be printed on inspection station 400 and/or cable module 402, for example.

[0151] Screen 448 of inspection station 400 may also display other information obtained by inspection station 400 and/or communicated to inspection station 400 from cable module 402 via the data connection therebetween. For example, cable processor memory may store a device type identifier for the cable module (e.g. a serial number) and the device type identifier may be downloaded to the inspection station processor 442 for display on screen 448. In addition to or in lieu of the above, screen 448 may indicate a state of the cable module, such as how close the cable module is to the end of its 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, display 448 may indicate the number of remaining uses (e.g., procedures) for the cable module and/or the number of procedures in which the cable module was used. As disclosed herein, inspection station 400 can also be used to perform post-procedure testing of cable module 402 to ensure that cable module 402 can be used in a subsequent procedure. These tests may include moisture testing, seal integrity testing and/or simulated load testing, for example. The screen may indicate the results of these tests (eg pass, fail, in progress).

[0152] In addition to or in lieu of the above, screen 448 of inspection station 400 may indicate the state 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. The 448 display can indicate results from testing and data processing, such as whether the cable module is ready for use in another procedure, whether the cable module needs service, whether the cable module's warranty has expired because the cable module has reached its threshold number of uses, and/or other warnings. The display 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 configuration data and/or parameters that are stored and used by the inspection station processor 442. The screen 448 can also be a touch screen where users can enter configuration data and/or parameters , for example, via the touch screen. 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. inspection 400 or downloaded to it. For example, procedure data from cable module 402 could be downloaded to inspection station 400 and then downloaded to a remote computer device via data port 412. Software updates and/or or firmware may be downloaded from a remote computer device via data port 412 to inspection station 400 and then uploaded to cable module 402, for example.

[0153] Figures 13A and 13B represent a provision to accompany the use of a cable module by monitoring the installation of power supply units in 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. Cable module 500 includes a removable power supply unit 502, such as a battery, for example, and cable processor 504. Figure 13B illustrates a process flow that can be performed by cable processor 504. The process can 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 may include an identification issuer 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 transmitter 508 is a wireless signal emitter, for example; however, any suitable ID issuer can be used. ID receiver 510 is a wireless signal receiver that is in communication with cable processor 504, for example; however, any suitable identification receiver can be used. The ID emitter 508 transmits a unique ID from 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. signal emitted from the ID transmitter 508 only when the power supply unit 502 is very close to the ID 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 many 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 on the cable module 500.

[0154] With reference to the process flow depicted in Figure 13B, ID reader 510 detects an ID emitter at step 520. At step 522, cable processor 504 determines whether power unit 502 is a new power 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 can perform this step by comparing the newly detected 502 power unit ID with a stored list of power unit IDs that were previously detected by the 510 ID receiver. This list of previously used power unit IDs is stored in a cable module 500 non-volatile memory, for example. If the power unit 502 is not new, i.e. its ID is in the stored list of previously used power units, the process proceeds to step 524, where an appropriate, pre-established action (or actions) is taken. For example, the 504 cable processor can disable the use of the 500 cable module until a new, i.e. previously unrecognized, power supply unit is installed in the 500 cable module. 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 500 screen may show the user that the power supply unit is not new and prompt to install a different power supply unit, which causes cause the process to return to step 520.

[0155] If the power unit 502 is determined to be new by the processor 504, i.e. the power unit ID 502 is not in the stored list of previously used power 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 countdown counter can be used. In step 528, the cable module 504 compares the usage count to a pre-set threshold that represents the number of times the cable module 500 must be used with a unique and different power supply unit. This usage count can serve as a proxy for the number of times the 500 Cable Module has been used in patient procedures. If the usage count threshold has been reached in step 528, a pre-set end-of-life action (or actions) can be taken in step 529. For example, cable processor 504 can disable the motor, module screen cable module can display to the user that the Cable Module 500 has no uses remaining and/or it 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 new power unit ID 502 to the stored list of previously used power units in step 530 so that the new power unit 502 cannot 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 the usage count increments. Other techniques to accompany the installation of power supply units in the cable module are described below in conjunction with Figures 14E and 15A and B.

[0156] 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 cable module 500, recharged and then reused with the same cable module 500 can cause the cable module 500 to go into a crash mode. Regarding this particular embodiment, recharged battery packs would need to be reused with a different cable module. In this line of reasoning, a modality of the cable module 500 is contemplated in which a set of recharged batteries can be reused with the same cable module 500.

[0157] 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, the processor 504 may not count a battery pack 502 a second time unless it has been engaged or disengaged from the cable module 500. Even so, the processor 504 may require an elapsed time between the first hitch and the subsequent hitch before the subsequent hitch counts as a second use. Such elapsed time could be the time it takes to recharge the battery pack, for example.

[0158] 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, as with a volume indicator that indicates the percentage of life remaining, for example, and/or or the number of times the cable module was used. When the threshold usage threshold is reached, the cable module, through the cable processor, can perform one or more end-of-life actions, such as showing that the cable module is worn out, disabling further use of the cable module, cable by deactivating the motor, for example, and/or sounding an audible alarm, for example. Figures 14A to 14G depict different arrangements to accompany the connection or disconnection of a DSM from a cable module, as discussed in detail further below.

[0159] Now referring to Figure 14A, cable module 600, which is similar to 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 pawl defined in a connection area 608 in the upper portion of the module. cable 600. In such an arrangement, the cable module 600 may include a push-button switch 612 on the latch, as shown in Figure 14A, and/or elsewhere in the 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, the push-button switch 612 is pressed. In at least one case, the DSM may not press the 612 switch until the DSM has been fully seated in the 600 cable module. The 612 switch can be connected to the cable processor, whereupon the cable processor can count the number of times the push-button switch 612 is pressed as a substitute for the number of times a DSM has been connected to the cable module 600 and/or as a substitute for the number of times the cable module 600 has been used. Also, the cable processor could require that the push-button 612 be pressed continuously for at least a certain period of time (eg, 30 seconds) before incrementing the count to reduce false positives. When a pre-established threshold number of uses, or activations of the 612 switch, is reached, an end-of-life action (or actions) can be performed, as described here.

[0160] Figures 14B and 14C illustrate an arrangement for an electromechanical push-button switch 612. As shown, push-button switch 612 includes a head 620 that extends into an opening 622 defined in the tongue and/or any other suitable mating surface of the DSM of the cable module 600. Head 620 may be at the end of a spring arm 624 configured to tilt the head position 620 upward into opening 622. Spring arm 624 also includes a shoulder 626 positioned behind an extension , or edge 628, defined on cable module 600, which limits upward movement of head 620 in opening 622 to a desired position. Pressable switch 612 also includes a contact 630. When switch 612 is in a non-actuated, or open condition, as illustrated in Figure 14B, spring arm 624 is not engaged with contact 630; when the DSM 634 is attached to the cable module 600 and pushes the head 620 down, as shown in Figure 14C, the shoulder 626 of the spring arm 624 engages the contact 630 and closes the key 612. The 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 which may complete a circuit in communication with the cable processor when the head 620 is pressed down by the DSM 634 as discussed above.

[0161] 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 on a DSM 706. In at least one case , the cable module 700 processor can count the number of times a DSM, such as the DSM 706, for example, is mounted on the cable module 700. The processor can increase the connection count to the DSM when the 704 contacts of the DSM 706 engage with the contacts of cable module 700 and make a functional data connection between them. Matching contact plates 702, 704 can serve as a proxy for the number of times a DSM was connected to the 700 cable module and as a substitute for the number of times the 700 cable module was used. Similar to the above, the cable processor could require there to be a data connection between contact pads 702, 704 continuously for at least a certain period of time (e.g. 30 seconds) before incrementing the count to reduce the cases of false positives. In another variation, the cable processor and the DSM processor can exchange data when the DSM 706 is connected to the cable module 700. In this exchange, the cable processor can receive identifying information for the DSM 706 so that the cable processor cable 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 identifying information from a DSM that is attached to it. In either of these variations, the cable processor compares the DSM connection count to a pre-set threshold, and if the threshold is reached, the cable processor performs an end-of-life action (or actions).

[0162] 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 can 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, for example, 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 via 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 on the cable module 700. The magnetic field generated by the magnet 714 can be constant and the cable processor can have access to data concerning 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 on the cable module 700, the cable processor can infer that the DSM 706 is fully and properly installed on the cable module 700 and updates the connection count to the DSM.

[0163] 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 also includes a Hall Effect Sensor 720 configured to detect the insertion of the Removable Battery Pack 722 into the Battery Cavity 724. The Hall Effect Sensor of the Battery Pack 720 can be positioned on an internal top surface. 723 in battery cavity 724 in cable module 700 for 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 the Hall effect sensor 720 as far away from the electrical terminals 726 as possible so that any magnetic fields generated by the current flowing through the terminals 726 will not substantially affect the ability of the Hall effect sensor 720 to properly detect the insertion of the 722 battery pack in 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 detects when battery pack 722 is inserted into battery cavity 724. Similar to the DSM's 710 Hall Effect Sensor, the Battery Pack's 720 Hall Effect Sensor is in communication with the cable processor via a 732 lead wire, for example. The Hall Effect Sensor 720 can detect the approaching battery pack magnet 730 when the battery pack 722 is installed in the battery cavity 724. The magnetic field generated by the magnet 730 can be constant and the cable processor can gain access to magnetic field data 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 the 722 battery pack fully and properly installed in the 700 cable module, the cable processor can infer that the 722 battery pack is fully and properly installed in the 700 cable module and updates the connection count to battery pack.

[0164] A cable module may keep track of the number of times a DSM and/or battery pack is connected and/or disconnected from the cable module as a proxy 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, as with a volume indicator that indicates the percentage of life remaining, for example, and/or or the number of times the cable module was used. When the threshold usage threshold is reached, the cable module, through the cable processor, can perform one or more end-of-life actions, such as showing that the cable module is worn out, disabling further use of the cable module, cable by deactivating the motor, for example, and/or sounding an audible alarm, for example.

[0165] Now with reference to Figures 15A and 15B, a cable module 800 can accompany the installation of power supply units to it using a pressure switch which is pressed when a power supply unit 806, for example, is completely and properly secured. to Cable Module 800. Cable Module 800 is similar to Cable Module 10 in many respects. Cable 800 includes an electrically conductive contact block 802 to which power supply unit 806 connects to supply voltage to electrical components of 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 the power supply unit 806 is mounted on the cable module 800, referring to Figure 15B, the power unit compartment 806 is pressed and the pressure switch 804 actuates. Each time the pressure switch 804 is actuated, the processor cable can increment the power unit connection count until a threshold is reached, at which point an end-of-life action (or actions) can be performed. Similar to the above, the cable processor may require the 804 pressure switch to be actuated continuously for a period of time (e.g. 30 seconds) before incrementing the power unit connection count to reduce cases of false positive. In other arrangements, an electromechanical switch can be used, for example.

[0166] 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 disengaged 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 power source for the cable module and disconnecting the battery pack from the cable module can immediately de-energize the processor and connecting 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 coupled to 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 de-energized during a battery pack change. In such cases, the processor may have a lifespan, or usage, even if a battery installation is detected by a sensor, as described above, and/or if the processor is powered up after being powered down.

[0167] In many cases, the cable processor of the cable module 800 can track the frequency at 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 block 802. The voltage and/or current sensor may be in communication with the cable processor. When a threshold input voltage and/or current of the battery pack 806 is detected at the 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 power sources other than the power pack, such as supercapacitors or other sources.

[0168] Referring now to Figure 16, a cable module 900 comprises a plurality of power supplies, including a removable battery power unit 902 and a secondary power supply 904, for example. The removable battery power unit 902 is, in many ways, similar 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. The secondary power supply 904 provides a source of power to the cable module 900 even when the removable battery power unit 902 is removed or otherwise disconnected from the cable module 900. With respect to this embodiment, the power supply secondary 904 is used for low-power operations of the cable module 900, such as powering the electronics on the control board 910 when the removable battery power unit 902 is removed from the cable module 900 - not for high-power operations , such as powering the motor (or motors) 905 from the 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) which are charged via the removable battery power unit 902 when it is installed. The secondary power supply 904 can power the electronics on the control board 910 in the absence of the primary power supply 902 as long as the secondary power supply 904 has a sufficient load.

[0169] The 904 Secondary Power Supply can allow the 900 Cable Module to track usage events and/or perform end-of-life actions, even when the 902 Power Unit is not installed on the 900 Cable Module. Figure 17A is a flowchart of a process executable by the control board processor 910, such as cable processor 2124, for example. The process can be executed 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 step 920 of the process, the cable processor can 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 time stamp each trigger of the 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 may continue to supply power to the cable processor to track time after a trigger event, even if the removable power supply unit 902 is removed from the cable module 900. In step 924 , the cable processor can determine whether 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 substantially process and sterilize the cable module after a procedure, for example. If the period of time between triggers is not longer than the threshold, the procedure can be assumed to be in progress and the process can return to step 922 to register the timestamp for the next trigger. On the other hand, if the period of time between trips is greater than the threshold, the procedure can be assumed to be complete, at which point, in step 926, the cable processor can increment the module's usage count. cable 900. At step 928, the cable processor compares the usage count to the preprogrammed threshold usage count for cable module 900. If the usage count is less than the threshold, cable module 900 can be used in another procedure and the process can return to step 920 to wait for a DSM to connect to 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 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) includes visually indicating the end-of-life for the cable module on a cable module screen and/or sounding an audible alarm, for example.

[0170] Figure 17B is a flowchart of another example process that can be run by the cable processor and occasionally powered by the secondary power supply 904 to track cable module uses. At step 950, the cable processor may detect the connection 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, the insertion of the battery pack 902 indicates to the cable processor that a surgical procedure involving the cable module 900 is about to begin. As a result, the cable processor may set a process flag to ON in step 952 when the cable processor detects the insertion of battery pack 902 into cable module 900. At step 954, the cable processor may detect complete connection and appropriate from a DSM to the cable module for the procedure. Various techniques for detecting the attachment of a DSM are described elsewhere in this document. After the DSM and the 902 battery pack 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 can detect the removal of the battery power pack 902 in step 956. Various techniques for detecting the removal of a battery pack are disclosed in another part of this document. In many cases, the removal of the power supply unit is indicative of the completion of a surgical procedure, and as a result, the cable processor, now powered by the secondary power supply 904, may increment the usage count for the cable module 900 in the step 958. Even if removing the power supply unit does not constitute the end of a surgical procedure, inserting a new battery pack and/or reinserting a recharged battery pack can be seen as another use. Such reuse of cable module 900 can be conditioned on a test administered at 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 can initiate an appropriate end of life action (or actions) in step 962. Various end of life actions are disclosed elsewhere in this document . It should be noted that with respect to any of the modalities disclosed herein, the end-of-life action may 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.

[0171] 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 an internal spring-activated lock 1002. Lock 1002, when released by cable module 1000, prevents complete and proper installation of a battery power unit 1004, and/or any another suitable battery pack, in cable module 1000. In many cases, lock 1002 may be configured to completely prevent the power supply unit 1004 from entering cable module 1000. In other cases, lock 1002 may prevent the unit from 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 the activation of the lock 1002, the power supply unit 1004 protrudes outside the cable module 1000 by a distance D, as also illustrated in Figure 18A. But for the lock 1002, the battery pack 1004 may be seated at a depth at which an end cap 1006 of the battery pack 1004 is aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the cable module housing 1000.

[0172] 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 cable module 1000 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 can be powered by battery power unit 1004. In the locked state of cable module 1000 illustrated in Figure 18C, lockout 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 locked 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 cable module 1000's operating system, but not the drive systems and/or electric motors from cable module 1000, for example.

[0173] 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. Lock 1002 is forced to rotate from its unlocked position (Figure 18B) to its locked position (Figure 18C) by a torsion spring 1010 which is connected to lock 1002. Torsion spring 1010 has a first end biased against an inner surface 1013 of the cable module 1000 and a second end mounted to the lock 1002. The cable module 1000 further includes a lock 1012 configured to releasably retain the 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 latch 1012 is retracted, as illustrated in Figure 18C, shoulder 1014 of latch 1002 is no longer engaged with latch 1012 and torsion spring 1010 can force latch 1002 into its locked position.

[0174] When a cable module 1000 end-of-life condition has not yet been reached, a cable module 1000 lock actuator can hold the lock 1012 in the position illustrated in Figure 18B. When an end-of-life condition has been reached, however, the latch actuator may move latch 1012 in the direction indicated by arrow A to move latch 1012 in the opposite direction to latch 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 projects into the cable module's battery compartment so that when a set of batteries 1004 is inserted into the cable module 1000, the electrical contact block 1016 of the cable module 1000 does not contact the contact block 1018 of the battery pack 1004, as discussed above. The latch actuator may comprise any suitable actuator, such as a solenoid, for example.

[0175] In addition to or in lieu of the foregoing, Figures 18D and 18E illustrate an embodiment where, at the end of the determined lifespan for the cable module, a battery pack positioned in the cable module cannot be removed from the cable module. cable module, thus 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 that it so that the 1004 battery pack cannot be removed from the cable module. As shown in Figures 18D and 18E, battery pack 1004 may define an opening 1042 into which a lock head 1044 of lock 1040 may be inserted to lock battery pack 1004 in position. Latch 1040 is forced 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 to a second latch 1052 which 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 the latch 1044 is in its actuated position, as shown in Figure 18E, is locked behind a corresponding shoulder 1056 defined by battery pack 1004.

[0176] 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 may actuate the second latch 1052, causing the second latch 1052 get 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 to shoulder 1050 of latch 1040, as indicated by arrow A, when latch 1052 is actuated. Removal of the second latch 1052 from the shoulder 1050 allows the spring 1046 to decompress and push the latch 1044 downward, as indicated by arrow B, through an opening 1060 defined in the cable module compartment 1013. As latch 1040 is moved downward by spring 1046, latch head 1044 extends to opening 1042 defined in battery pack 1004. Latch shoulder 1054 of latch head 1044 may slide through opening 1042 and be locked behind the corresponding shoulder 1056 of the battery pack 1004. The downward movement of the lock head 1044 is limited by the cable module compartment 1013 when the upper shoulder 1050 of the lock 1040 contacts the cable module compartment 1013. As a result, the battery pack 1004 cannot be removed from the cable module, thus preventing insertion of a new (or recharged) battery pack into the cable module for a subsequent procedure.

[0177] Referring now 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 1106. Cable module 1100 additionally includes a sliding door 1108 that slides, generally up and down in a channel 1110 defined in cable module 1100, between an open position (Figure 19C) and a closed position (Figure 19B ). A compression spring 1112 is positioned in channel 1110 which is configured to force 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, so that they are not damaged and/or accidentally come 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 mate with 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 the cable module 1100 is positioned in the received area 1120, the sliding door 1108 engages a shoulder 1124 of the charging station 1106 which pushes the sliding door 1108 upwards, as indicated by arrow A, compressing the spring 1112 and unprotecting ( or revealing) the charging terminals of the battery pack 1114. At this point, the charging terminals 1114 may connect and contact the charging terminals of the receiving station 1122 to thereby recharge the battery cells 1104 of the battery pack 1102.

[0178] Charging station 1106 may be powered by an AC power supply via a power cord 1130. Charging station 1106 may also include a visual display 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 the screen 1132. The information displayed may include, for example, the state of charge of the battery pack 1102 (e.g. X% charged), and/or any information accompanied by the cable processor, such as the cable module's lifespan or remaining uses and/or the number of trips over its lifespan, for example.

[0179] 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. A 1201 End Actuator Connection Area Cover can connect to (e.g., snap-fit) and cover the area where the DSM connects to the 1200 Cable Module. The 1200 Cable Module also includes a set of removable trigger that is used to actuate the 1200 cable module actuation systems. In addition to or in lieu of the above, a trigger cover 1202 may connect (e.g., snap-fit) and cover the opening that is created when the trigger assembly is removed from the cable module 1200. The 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 connect to and cover the location where the battery pack is inserted into a pistol 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 plastics. Additionally, covers 1201, 1202, 1203 may cover electrical contacts of cable module 1200 including an end actuator contact plate 1210, drive systems 1212 and/or battery pack internal contacts (not shown), for example.

[0180] Attaching the covers 1201, 1202 and/or 1203 to the cable module 1200 can help keep track of the number of times the cable module 1200 has been used and/or sterilized. Similarly, separating the covers 1201, 1202 and/or 1203 from the cable module 1200 can assist 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 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 operating mode, the cable processor may prevent the 1200 cable module processor (or processors) from being operated, de-energize certain contacts and/or sensors, energize certain contacts and/or sensors , record any data stored in temporary memory on a memory chip, copy the cable module memory to backup memory, and/or create 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 DSM connection area cover 1201 includes a protrusion 1220 that contacts and actuates a corresponding switch 1222 on the cable module 1200 (e.g., a push-button switch, or a contact switch, etc.) when the cover 1201 is positioned on the cable module 1200. A key 1222 may be in communication with the cable processor and in many cases the cable processor may update its sterilization count when the 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 connection area of DSM 1201. In any case, since 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 in other provisions of 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.

[0181] 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 one in place of the other, the battery cover 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 inside containers 1242 in battery pack 1240, but not cover 1203. Cover 1203, however, also includes a feature (or features) that readily distinguish it from battery pack 1240. illustrated, cover 1203 includes a relatively thin, long, easy-grip tab 1248 at the bottom of cover 1203 which may include markings indicating that it is intended for use in sterilization, as shown in Figure 20C.

[0182] As also shown in Figures 20C and 20D, each of the cover 1203 and battery pack 1240 may include a respective flap 1250, 1252 that are located in different relative positions. In the illustrated arrangement, flap 1250 of cover 1203 is on right container 1242 and flap 1252 on battery pack 1240 is on left container 1242 thereof. When inserted into the cable module 1200, the tabs 1250, 1252 can contact and actuate corresponding switches and respective switches on the cable module 1200 to identify the insertion of the cover 1203 or the battery pack 1240, as the case may be. Switches (not shown) may be communicating with the cable processor, and the cable processor may use the actuation of the respective switches to update its usage, sterilization, and/or battery pack connection counts, as appropriate. Actuation of the sterilization switch can place the cable module 1200 in a sterilization mode of operation and actuation of the battery switch can place the cable module in a surgical mode of operation, for example. Tabs 1250, 1252 are preferably in two different locations, so the cable module may 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 flaps 1250, 1252 may be located in mirrored opposite 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, to thereby prevent battery pack flap 1252 from actuating the battery cover switch. sterilization and vice versa. In the illustrated arrangement, for example, battery pack cover 1203 and battery pack 1240 include a tongue 1254 on only one side thereof, which can fit into a corresponding groove defined on only one side of the cable module 1200.

[0183] Figures 21A to 21C show example screens for a 1300 cable module and/or a DSM 1302 that can provide visual information to a user about the status of the 1300 cable module and/or the DSM 1302. As shown in Figure 21A, the screen may include a display portion 1304A on the cable module 1300 and a display portion 1304B on the DSM. Display portions 1304A and 1304B may be adjacent to each other or separate from each other. 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 may be used to display coordinated information which may or may not be duplicated. In certain other cases, the display 1304 may be entirely on the DSM 1302, as shown in Figure 21B, or alternatively, the display 1304 may be entirely on the cable module 1300, as shown in Figure 21C. Display 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 screen. The 1304 display can be controlled by the cable processor and/or the DSM processor.

[0184] 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 cable portion indicators may include cable module-related indicators, such as a 1310 battery status indicator, a 1312 indicator that shows that the DSM connected to the cable module is recognized, and/or a 1314 cable module general error indicator. The DSM 1304B display may include DSM-related indicators, such as a 1320 indicator indicating that the end actuator jaws are closed, an indicator indicating that the clamps on the end actuator have not yet been triggered, an indicator 1322 indicating whether the staples were properly fired, and/or an indicator 1324 indicating if there is an error related to the staples or staple cartridge, for example. Of course, in other variations, a lower, higher, and/or different icons may be used to alert the user/clinician to the condition of various components and aspects of the 1300 Cable Module and/or the 1302 DSM. For example , display 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 touch screen interface where a user/clinician can enter information into the DSM/Cable Module memory/processors.

[0185] 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 a different cable module. Figure 22 is a diagram of a removable 1350 battery pack that can track the number of times it has been sterilized, which may be a proxy for the number of times the 1350 battery pack has been used in surgical procedures. . Battery pack 1350 may include multiple battery cells 1352 with output voltage terminals 1354. As shown in Figure 22, battery pack 1350 may also include a battery pack processor 1360 mounted on a battery pack circuit board. 1362 batteries. Battery pack processor 1360 can include internal or external memory (such as an external memory chip 1364 mounted on circuit board 1362), and battery pack processor 1360 can run software/firmware stored in memory . In this way, the 1360 battery pack processor can implement a battery management system (BMS) that manages the rechargeable battery. The BMS can protect the battery so that it is not operated outside of its safe operating area, monitor battery status, calculate secondary data, report this data, control your environment, authenticate the battery and/or balance battery cells. battery, for example.

[0186] In various arrangements, the 1350 battery pack may also include a 1366 wetting or humidity microsensor to detect when the 1350 battery pack is in a humidified or humid environment consistent with being subjected to a sterilization process, for example. The battery pack processor 1360 may be in communication with the wetting/humidity sensor 1366, so that for each case where the wetting/humidity sensor 1366 detects a threshold level of wetting or humidity for a period of time threshold that is consistent with a typical sterilization process, the 1360 battery processor can update its sterilization count as a proxy for the number of times the 1350 battery pack has been used. In many cases, the 1360 battery processor can be configured to not count aberrant events that could produce false positives. In either case, once the threshold sterilization count is reached, the battery pack processor 1360 may disable the use of the battery pack 1350. For example, as shown in Figure 22, the battery pack 1350 may include a terminal 1368 data controller that can provide a connection to the cable module's cable processor. When battery pack 1350 is depleted 1350 (e.g., has reached sterilization count threshold), battery pack processor 1360 may send a signal to cable processor that battery pack 1350 should not be used. The cable processor can then indicate via its display that there is a problem with the 1350 battery pack.

[0187] In many cases, the 1360 battery pack processor may 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 may update its usage count.

[0188] 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 power 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, the battery pack 1350 may include an end cap 1370 and a latch 1372 to facilitate connection of the battery pack 1350 to the cable module.

[0189] 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. Prior to the end of life of cable module 1400, 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 the 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 may be positioned anywhere that is convenient and that, when designed, inhibits the placement of the cable module 1400 into the corresponding opening of the sterilization tray 1404. As mentioned earlier in connection with Figure 11A, the sterilization tray includes an opening whose shape corresponds to the shape of the cable module, so that the cable module is received narrowly 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 does not fit into the opening when the projection portion 1402 is projected to outside the 1400 cable module, as shown in Figures 23A and 23B. Projection portion 1402 may be solenoid driven, 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 so that the solenoid armature is extended outward, thereby causing the projection portion 1402 to extend out of the 1400 cable module, for example. Cable module 1400 may also include a stop, such as a spring-loaded detent, for example, which prevents retraction of the solenoid armature and projection portion 1402 after they have been actuated.

[0190] 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 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 to the modalities described above. A cable module 1501 shown 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 trigger trigger areas 1516, and/or seals engaged with the 1518 electrical contact plate that connects to the DSM, for example. If multiple cable module seals are not satisfactory, and the cable module does not properly maintain vacuum as detected by the vacuum sensors, the 1500 inspection station may issue a warning through its display indicating that the 1501 cable module needs be repaired.

[0191] In addition to or in lieu of the above, an inspection station may 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 that extends from the base portion 1610 that is positionable in the empty battery cavity of the cable module 1602 to position 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 The 1604 and 1608 fans are powered electrically, as by an AC power supply, through a 1612 power adapter, for example. The first fan 1604 can be directed to the internal components of the cable module 1602 through an opening in the battery pack cavity. The top surface of the extension 1606 may include vent openings through which air blown by the first fan 1604 can circulate 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 is blown by the second fan 1608 can be circulated to trigger area 1614. Base portion 1610 may also include an air inlet for the fans and 1608 1604, such as an air inlet 1618 in base portion 1610. Inspection station 1600 may also include outlets of air, such as bilateral air vents 1620 at the bottom of the 1606 extension, to allow the exhaust to leave the 1600 inspection station. The 1600 inspection station can include as many as 1600 fans , air inlets and/or air outlets as deemed necessary.

[0192] 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 elevated above base portion 1610 and angled in trigger area 1614. The arrangement shown in Figures 25B, 25C and 25D also includes a cover (or overcap) 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 may be produced from translucent hard plastic, such as polycarbonate, for example. In one aspect, the fan 1608 may be powered by the adapter 1612 of the inspection station 1600, as shown in Figure 25C. In another aspect, the fan 1608 may have its own power adapter 1632, separate from the power adapter 1612 of the inspection station 1600, as shown in Figure 25D. The top surface of cover/overcover 1630 may include one or more air vents 1634, and cover/overcover 1630 may also include air inlets 1636 near fan 1608.

[0193] 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 may 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 connected to suck 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 hood/overcover 1630 and the vacuum port 1642 is at the top of the hood/overcover 1630; however, any suitable provision could be used.

[0194] A cable module, such as the 1602 cable module for example, can also be tested using a simulated load adapter. In many cases, the 1602 cable module can be tested by a 1650 load adapter when the 1602 cable module is connected to the 1600 inspection station, as shown in the examples in 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 either case, the 1650 simulated load adapter may include a 1651 compartment and opposing 1652, 1654 load motors positioned in the 1651 compartment. As described in more detail below, the 1652 first load motor 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 drive motor of the cable module 1602. The second load motor 1654 is configured to drive a second coupling nut 1662 which is operatively engageable with a coupler 1658 driven by the second drive motor of cable module 1602.

[0195] The 1650 simulated load adapter may comprise a motor control circuit on a circuit board with at least one processor, a memory and a motor controller to control the load motors 1652, 1654, for example. The motor control circuit may be incorporated as an integrated circuit (eg a SOC) or multiple discrete integrated circuits, or other circuitry. The motor control circuit can control the 1652, 1654 motors to apply an opposing force, under different load conditions, to the 1602 cable module's rotary drive systems. The energy consumed by the 1602 cable module's rotary drive systems to resist and/or overcome opposing forces can be monitored by the 1600 inspection station to determine that the cable module motor (or motors) and rotary drive systems are operating properly. In various cases, the first motor 1652 of the simulated load adapter 1650 can be driven in one direction, and the drive motor of the cable module 1602 can drive the first coupler 1656 in the opposite direction. If the 1602 cable module's drive motor is unable to withstand or overcome the simulated load applied by the 1650 simulated load adapter's first 1652 motor, then the 1650 simulated load adapter can instruct the 1602 cable module that the module 1602 cable may not function as needed. In various cases, the second motor 1654 of the simulated load adapter 1650 can be driven in one direction, and the drive motor of the cable module 1602 can drive the second coupler 1658 in the opposite direction. If the 1602 cable module drive motor is unable to withstand or overcome the simulated load applied by the 1650 simulated load adapter's second 1654 motor, then the 1650 simulated load adapter can instruct the 1602 cable module that the 1602 cable module cannot function as required. Such an assessment may form an aspect of the overall assessment of whether the cable module 1602 is suitable for another procedure.

[0196] In various cases, in addition to the above, the simulated load adapter motor control circuit may vary the load transmitted by the 1652, 1654 simulated load adapter motors in the 1600 cable module rotary drive systems from (relatively) low to (relatively) high in a way that simulates the load that swivel cord 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 1652, 1654 motors based on the type of DSM to be used in a future procedure. For example, using the 1672 user interface (e.g. 1670 buttons and/or a 1672 interface touch screen), 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 1650 simulated load adapter may have a 1674 data contact terminal that corresponds to the 1602 cable module data connection terminal. In this way, the user's load profile selection can be uploaded from the 1602 load processor. inspection station, to the cable module processor and to the 1650 load simulator motor control circuit. In real time and/or after the simulation, the motor control circuit can be downloaded to the module processor and/or the inspection station processor time-stamped power readings of the power (eg, volt-amps) supplied to the 1652, 1654 load simulator motors during the simulation. The inspection station processor and/or cable module processor can correlate these readings with the time stamped readings of the power consumed by the cable module motor (or motors) to assess the effectiveness of the motor (or motors). ) of cable module and rotary drive systems.

[0197] The 1650 simulated load adapter can be powered by the 1600 inspection station, for example. As shown in the example of Figure 26B, electrical power from the inspection station 1600 can be supplied to the simulated load adapter 1650 through the cable module 1602 and the electrical contact plate 1674. In the example of Figure 26C, a separate power cable 1680 that extends from inspection station 1600 to the 1650 simulated load adapter can supply electrical power directly to the 1650 load simulator adapter, bypassing the 1602 cable module. In another arrangement, the 1650 load simulation adapter may have its own connection to an AC power source and/or its own battery power supply. In many cases, the power cable 1680 can also position the load simulator 1650 in signal communication directly with the inspection station 1600.

[0198] 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 1650 dummy load adapter is in a backlash detection mode, the dummy load adapter motor control circuit can cause one or both of the 1652, 1654 dummy load motors to rotate, and the dummy load system processors inspection 1600 and/or cable module 1602 can track the rotations by the corresponding rotary drive systems of the cable module 1602. The difference in speed between the 1652, 1654 simulated load adapter motors and the Cable 1602 is an indication of slack in the respective swivel drive systems of cable module 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 load simulator 1650 can check the slack of the cable module 1602. cable module and write the result to the cable module memory. Cable module memory can store and date and time stamp the gap 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 clearance on the number of remaining uses. A sample model is illustrated in Figure 26E. The dashed line 1690 shows a threshold limit for the slack as a function of the number of trips in a cable module. Line 1691 represents the expected clearance for the cable module as a function of usage (eg trips). In this example, the clearance threshold is reached (lines 1690 and 1691 intersect) in about 500 shots. Since clearance measurements can be tracked over time (and therefore by the number of shots), the cable processor and/or inspection processor can compare the clearance measurements, indicated by the diamonds in Figure 26E, to determine that the cable module slack tends to reach the threshold in less than 500 trips, in this example about 370 trips. Once the review is complete, the updated trip threshold can be used to assess the remaining 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 backlash, the processor might determine that the cable module has 150 shots remaining; or if 7 trips per procedure are assumed, then the cable module has 21 procedures remaining. Backlash can be tested for each cable module's rotary drive system in this way, and the one with the least remaining life can determine the cable module's remaining life.

[0199] That said, if less than expected clearance is measured, then the trips required to reach the cable module end-of-life threshold may be revised upwards, or increased. In fact, the end-of-life threshold of 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 may be fixed or adaptable. A threshold parameter can be adapted based on intrinsic and/or extrinsic information. For example, a cable module's control system can assess 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 base line of detected parameter data and establish a threshold with respect to 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 detected data of a first parameter, and establish a threshold for a second parameter with respect to the baseline. Furthermore, many thresholds are described herein which comprise two bands, i.e., a first band below the threshold and a second band above the threshold. The threshold itself can be part of the first band or the second band, 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 take a first action, and if the detected data for the parameter is in the second range, the control system may take a second action, which may or may not be equal to the first action. If the detected data for the parameter is in the third range, the control system may perform a third action, which may include no action. The minimum value may be part of the first range or the third range, depending on the circumstances, and the maximum value may 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 mode, the control system can adapt a threshold in one direction, and if data is detected in a second range, the control system can adapt a threshold in the opposite direction. , whereas if data is detected in a third range, the control system may not adapt the threshold, for example.

[0200] In another aspect, as shown in Figures 27A and 27B, the inspection station 1600 can accommodate either a 1602 cable module or one or more 1680 DSMs, for example. Figure 27A illustrates such an inspection station 1600 by itself; Figure 27B shows the inspection station 1600 with both the cable module 1602 and a DSM 1680 connected to it. 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, a 1600 inspection station that also supports DSMs can include the 1682, 1684 rotary drives configured as the 1656, 1658 rotary drives of the 1600 cable module. The 1600 inspection station can actuate the station rotary drives. inspection stations 1682, 1684 to test the DSM 1680 drive systems. In still other embodiments, the DSM 1680 can have its own inspection station for carrying out various tests and/or data transfers, for example.

[0201] 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, example: • Determining and displaying a device ID (eg serial number) and/or model, and device status (eg end of life, locked, etc.); • Read/download data from 1602 cable module memory, such as number of trips/cycles, performance parameters, cable software and/or DSM versions; • Based on the device ID, define and update the operating instructions and criteria for the cable module and/or the DSM, which the inspection station can retrieve from memory based on the device ID; • 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 of life, system lockout checks, and/or internal battery life conditioning tests; • Conduct 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 the locks on the cable module when necessary; • Dry the device; • Inform users (eg via the screen) that the device (cable module and/or DSM) 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 the cable and/or DSM performance and usage data to a remote computer system, via a USB or wireless connection (eg Wi-Fi), for example.

[0202] Inspection station memory can store software and/or firmware that the inspection station runs to perform these various functions.

[0203] The inspection station and/or cable module screens can also make maintenance and service recommendations based on various data related to cable module usage. 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 cables 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 complete procedure, during a procedure, and/or at the beginning of a procedure.

[0204] Figures 28A and 28B are illustrative process flows to make maintenance and/or service recommendations that can be performed by the cable module processor and/or inspection station processor by executing a firmware and/or software in the processors' associated memory. Figure 28A illustrates an example 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 of Cable module memory usage and performance are downloaded to the inspection station. This data may 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 trips by the cable module, the intensity (e.g. force) of each trip, the trip force differential between the expected trip force and the actual trip force, the energy expended (accumulated ) by the cable module during the life of the cable module, and/or gear backlash, for example.

[0205] 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 programmed to determine if there is a need for service, and may make one or more service recommendations in step 1804 if such a need is determined. Service recommendations can be as broad as suggesting that the cable module be rebuilt, or as secondary as lubricating certain parts, for example. Also, for example, a service check that the inspection station processor can perform in step 1802 is that for each N1 procedures and/or each S1 trips, or some combination of procedures and trips (e.g., N2 procedures and S2 trips), 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 must be rebuilt. Another service check that the inspection station processor can perform at step 1802 is that every S3 trips, the gears of the rotary drive systems must be lubricated. Other service checks that the inspection station may perform and recommend, as 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, running 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 nearing 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 triggering the device (in a diagnostic mode or other mode that allows triggering without a DSM or cartridge) to monitor abnormalities in a motor parameter (such as voltage or current, etc.). A damaged gear can cause a change in engine load, detectable through the monitored engine parameters, which could indicate an internal problem that requires replacement. Also, a generally higher motor load may indicate a need for cleaning or lubrication, or damage to the interior of the device.

[0206] 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 programmed to determine whether multi-cable module component verification is required, and can make one or several component verification recommendations on 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-set threshold in step 1806, the inspection station processor may display a suggestion in step 1808 that the gears of the rotary drive system should be checked. Also, if the inspection station processor determines that the accumulated power expended by the cable module is beyond a pre-set threshold in step 1806, the inspection station processor may display a suggestion in step 1808 that the motor (or motors) and/or gears of rotary drive systems should be checked. Similarly, if the processor determines that a threshold number of trips (in the most recently completed procedure and/or over the lifetime of the cable module) exceeds an intensity threshold (for example, power or electrical energy) pre-set in step 1806, the inspection station processor may display a suggestion in step 1808 that the motor (or motors) and/or gears of the rotary drive systems should be checked. The inspection station processor, via the screen, can also recommend that the DSM be verified in various modes. For example, if the inspection station processor determines that a threshold number of triggers 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.

[0207] The cable module processor may also make service and/or component check determinations. Figure 28B illustrates an example process flow for the 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 your procedures and post-procedures so that you 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 cable 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.

[0208] As shown in Figures 27A and 27B, a DSM 1680 may also be connected to an inspection station 1600. In such an arrangement, the DSM processor and/or the inspection station processor may make service verification determinations and component based on usage and performance data stored in DSM memory.

[0209] For this purpose, 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, 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 actuation. of various triggers, for example. After the procedure, in step 2202, the clinician can 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 through, in step 2204, the connecting the cable module to the inspection station, as shown in the present disclosure, for example. In step 2206, the inspection station can download (or read) the usage and procedure data from the cable module memory. The inspection station may also download identification data to the cable module, which the inspection station processor can use to determine the cable module type and/or configuration in step 2208, which the inspection station can display on your screen.

[0210] In step 2210, the inspection station can define inspection programs and inspection criteria for the cable module based on its type and configuration. For example, inspection station memory can store inspection programs that must be run for each cable module type and configuration, as well as criteria for inspections. Based on the cable module type and configuration resolved by the inspection station in step 2208, the inspection station can 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 herein in conjunction with Figures 25A to 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 proper 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 tests of the cable module can be performed. For example, the motor (or motors) and/or rotary drive systems can be tested (e.g. 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, a necessary additional conditioning of the cable module can be performed. Such 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. At 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's screen that it can be removed, for example.

[0211] 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 similar process as illustrated in Figure 35 can be used for the DSM connected to the inspection station to prepare the DSM for a subsequent procedure.

[0212] 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.

[0213] Figures 36 and 37 are flowcharts that illustrate exemplary steps involved in sterilizing a cable module and monitoring the number of times it is used/sterilized. In Figure 36, the process starts at step 2300, where the cable module (and a DSM) is used in a surgical procedure. After the procedure, in step 2302, a post-operative cleaning of the cable module can be performed, which can lead to 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. In step 2308, the cable module can 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, for example.

[0214] In step 2310, the inspection station can query or interrogate the cable module to determine if the sterilization switch (e.g. switch 344, see Figures 11E to 11I) has been activated or otherwise was in the state that indicates its previous placement in a sterilization tray, as shown above in Figures 11E to 11I. If the sterilization tray switch is in the activated or actuated state, in step 2311 the sterilization count is increased 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, in step 2314, any of the end-of-life actions described here for the cable module can be performed.

[0215] Conversely, if the threshold has not yet been reached, the process can proceed to step 2316, where 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 on 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 at step 2320, where it can be stored and later transported to an operating room at step 2322 for use in a subsequent procedure at step 2300.

[0216] Again with reference to step 2310, if the sterilization trigger is not activated or its state changed, it may be necessary to physically inspect the cable module in step 2324.

[0217] The example process flow of Figure 37 is similar to that of Figure 36, except that after the procedure in step 2300, the cable module can be reactivated to determine if 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.

[0218] 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 on the same or another similarly configured cable module in a procedure subsequent charge, typically after recharging. Figures 29A through 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 the battery packs 1702 are inserted, their respective power terminals contact corresponding charging terminals 1708 at the bottom of the 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.

[0219] Charging station 1700 may include a display 1709 that displays the status of battery packs 1702 in terms of the charging process, such as "charging" or "charged/ready to use", for example. For charging sets of batteries, the display can show how far the charging process has gone and/or how much is still to go. Text and/or images can be used to indicate the 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. ).

[0220] 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 the 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 to the battery pack 1702 in the charging station 1700, so that the battery pack 1702 cannot be removed prematurely (e.g. 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 the 1724 screw.

[0221] Figure 29D is a simplified block diagram of charging station 1700 and battery pack 1702 in accordance with various arrangements. Assuming that charging station 1700 is powered by an AC power supply, charging station 1700 may include an AC/DC converter 1730 for converting AC voltage to DC voltage, and a voltage regulator 1732 for converting 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 to control the voltage regulator 1732, based on detected parameters. of charging operation, such as current, voltage, and/or temperature, which can be detected by the charging station's 1738 detection circuit. For example, when a 1702 battery pack is charged under normal charging conditions, the 1736 charge controller circuit can control the 1732 voltage regulator to charge at a constant current until the 1734 Li-ion or Lipo battery cells reach a specified voltage per cell (Vpc). Then the 1736 charge controller circuit can keep the cells at Vpc voltage until the charging current drops to X% of the initial charge rate (eg 10%), after which the charging process can end. Other charging regimes, suitable for battery technology, can be realized.

[0222] Pressure switch 1720 can detect insertion of battery pack 1702 into receptacle 1704 of charging station 1700 and, when activated, send a signal to charging station processor 1722. Charging station processor 1722 may , in response, send a control signal to a link actuator 1740, such as a linear actuator, which guides screw 1724 into the threaded opening of battery pack 1726. Link actuator 1740 can be powered for a second 1740 voltage regulator 1742 which can power, in addition to the connection actuator 1740, the other electronics of the charging station 1700.

[0223] In addition to the above, battery pack 1702 may include a data terminal 1710 which, when battery pack 1702 is inserted into receptacle 1704, slots into a corresponding data terminal 1712 of charging station 1700. charging station processor 1722 may have internal or external memory 1744 that stores firmware and/or software to be executed by charging station processor 1722. Upon execution of firmware and/or software, charging station processor 1722 may (i) controlling the 1709 display, (ii) controlling aspects of the battery cell charging process by communicating with the 1736 charge controller, and/or (iii) exchanging data with the 1750 battery pack processor via the terminals 1710, 1712. As described herein, the battery pack electronic circuit may also include memory 1752 that stores firmware and/or software to run. provided 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. Data terminal 1712 of charging station 1700 may also supply low-level power to battery pack processor 1750. Charging station 1700 may also include a wireless communication module 1755 in communication with processor 1722 that may communicate with remote devices over wireless communication links (eg Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LTE, etc.). In this way, the charging station 1700 can wirelessly communicate to remote computing systems (e.g. servers, desktops, tablet computers, laptops, smartphones, etc.) the state of charge and other data related to the sets. of 1702 batteries installed in the 1700 charging station (eg 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 1702 battery packs can be downloaded from the charging station 1700 to the device connected. In this way, the surgical team and/or the battery pack supplier can receive such information.

[0224] In one aspect, to extend the battery's operating time as well as its lifespan, for example, the battery cells comprising the 1702 battery pack may be rebalanced from time to time during the lifespan of the battery pack. batteries 1702. Figure 29E is a diagram of a process flow that can be performed by the charging station processor 1722 (by executing firmware/software stored in memory 1744) to rebalance the battery cells. In step 1760, the charging station processor 1722 may detect the insertion of a battery pack 1702 into the inspection station 1700 for charging based on, for example, the signal from the pressure switch 1720 in the receptacle 1704 and/or some other suitable medium. In step 1762, the charging station processor 1722 may drive the connection actuator 1740 to temporarily secure the battery pack 1702 to the charging station 1700 during the charging (and/or discharging) session. In step 1764, the charging station processor 1722 may exchange data with the battery pack processor 1750. Among other things, the battery pack processor 1750 may exchange a record of the times that the battery pack 1702 has been charged and the times when your cells were balanced. In step 1765, charging station 1700 can quickly complete charging of the battery cells if the battery pack is needed before a full charge or discharge cycle can be performed. Fast charging in step 1765 could be, for example, to simply charge the battery cells at constant current to bring them to the specified Vcp level or a fraction thereof. At step 1766, the charging station processor 1722 can determine if the battery cells need to be rebalanced. In various aspects, cells can be balanced every N times they are loaded, 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 proceeds to step 1768 where the battery cells are recharged and step 1770 released for use, such as by deactivating the connection 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 can proceed to step 1772 where said cells are discharged before being charged in step 1768. The cells can be discharged in step 1772 to a suitable voltage level (low).

[0225] As shown in Figure 29A, the charging station 1700 can include a 1780 emergency release button for each battery pack charging receptacle, a single 1780 emergency release button that releases only the 1702 battery pack which has the highest load (and therefore most suitable for emergency use). In various respects, the charging station processor 1722 may initiate one or more actions when the emergency release button 1780 is pressed for a given battery pack 1702 when charging of that battery is in progress. For example, charging station processor 1722 may signal connection actuator 1740 to unscrew battery pack 1702 so that it can be removed. Also, prior to such a mechanical release of the battery pack 1702, the charging station processor 1722 may instruct the charge controller to perform an action to accelerate fast charging of the battery pack 1702. For example, the charging station processor 1722 can instruct the 1736 charge controller to use a charge profile that charges the 1734 battery cells faster for a brief period of time, even though such short-term, fast charging may not charge the battery cells to their full capacity or extend battery cell longevity. Common charging profile stages for charging lithium-ion battery cells include (i) trickle charging, (ii) constant current charging, and (iii) constant voltage charging. The charge controller circuit 1736 can switch to one of these short-term profiles (eg, constant current charging) to provide the 1702 battery pack with as much additional charge as possible in the shortest amount of time. Also, the charging station processor 1722 can coordinate the increase in charging voltage available to charge the battery cells by making other sources of power available, such as from other receptacles and/or charge storage devices (e.g., supercapacitors or charging cells). battery) in the charging station 1700. Data about such charging procedures can also be recorded in the battery pack memory.

[0226] Figure 30A illustrates another exemplary charge/discharge determination process that the charging station processor 1722 may perform, in addition to or in place 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 at step 1780 where a "first" set of rechargeable batteries is inserted into one of charging receptacles 1740 of charging station 1700. At step 1782, the battery pack usage data obtained from the first set of batteries are downloaded to charging station memory, which may include the current battery capacity remaining. Although not shown in Figure 30A, the first battery pack could also be attached to the charging station when inserted (see Figures 29B and 29C for example). In step 1784, charging station 1700 can 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 battery pack in step 1784 is written to the memory of the first battery pack. This data can include, for example, timestamps for the start and end of the charging stage, as well as the initial and final battery capacity.

[0227] At 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 can proceed to step 1792 in which the charging station processor can determine if there is at least one other set. of fully charged batteries in their charging receptacles. In this case, at step 1794 the first battery pack can be fully discharged to prolong its longevity and also because there is another fully charged battery pack ready for use if needed. When the discharge of the first set of batteries is complete, in step 1796 the discharge data (e.g. start and end timestamps, start and end capacities) can be written to the memory of the first set of batteries so that the evaluation in step 1788 can be performed. Thereafter, the process can proceed to step 1784 where the battery cells from the first set of batteries are recharged, and the process repeats. If the first battery pack was discharged at step 1794 since the last procedure, from step 1788 the process will proceed to step 1790 because further discharge of the battery cells is not necessary.

[0228] Modifications can be made to the process in Figure 30A. For example, initial loading step 1784 could be eliminated and/or moved between steps 1788 and 1790 and/or between steps 1792 and 1790, for example.

[0229] Figure 30B illustrates another exemplary load/unload determination process that the docking 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., a short charge at a level lower than its 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 can proceed to step 1792 where the charging station determines whether another battery pack inserted into one of your 1704 receptacles is ready for use (eg fully or properly charged). Otherwise, the first battery pack can be fully charged at step 1789. However, if another battery pack is fully or adequately charged and ready for use, at step 1794 the first battery pack can be discharged (with the data on the discharge being stored in the battery pack memory). After full discharge, the process can proceed to step 1789 so that the first set of batteries can then be charged.

[0230] In various embodiments, the charging station processor 1722 can monitor and store the times when the various battery cells are inserted into it, such as indications of when procedures are being performed by the hospital or surgical unit where the charging station is being performed. loading is located. The charging station processor 1722 can be programmed to determine times of day when the hospital or surgical unit is typically performing procedures involving instruments using such battery packs and when it is not. In particular, the charging station processor 1722 can determine a statistical probability that the hospital or surgical unit is performing a procedure involving instruments using such battery packs during non-overlapping time increments that span a 24-hour period, such as one-hour increments, for example. Thus, for full charging of battery packs (e.g. in step 1789 of Figure 30B), the charging station can initiate such full charging steps when there is a low probability of a process in progress, especially in cases where there is another fully charged battery pack ready for use. That is, for example, in Figure 30B, the full loading at step 1789 after unloading step 1792 need not immediately follow the unloading at step 1792, but could instead be scheduled for a time period when there is a low probability of an ongoing process, as determined and programmed by the charging station processor 1722. Additionally, hospital staff or the surgical unit can input as input to the charging station 1700, through the user interface 1709, for example, data about when procedures should be performed and/or the types of procedures (or the amount of load required for procedures) that should be performed. This data can be stored in charging station memory 1744 and used by the charging station processor 1722 to determine when battery packs should be charged.

[0231] In a system that charges and discharges batteries, there can be a significant amount of energy wasted in the energy loss of the cell (or cells) being maintained in the form of heat because typically the charge of a battery cell being discharged is drained through a resistive load. Consequently, 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 one cell to be discharged to charge another cell in the charging station or store it in another charge storage device. Figure 31 is a simplified diagram of a 1900 circuit 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 the first battery cell 1902. To discharge the first battery cell 1902 to the energy storage device 1908 (e.g., supercapacitor or another internal battery cell of the station and not just ordinarily for use on a surgical instrument), switch S2 is closed and the remaining 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 load in energy storage device 1908, switch S5 is closed and the remaining switches S1, S2, S3 and S4 are open. The 1905 diode controls the direction in which current flows to the first 1902 battery cell. To charge another 1910 battery cell with the first 1902 battery cell, switches S2 and S4 are closed and switches S1, S3, and S5 are open. Switches S1, S2, S3, S4 and S5 can be controlled by the charging station processor 1722 and/or the charging controller 1736.

[0232] Figure 32 shows a circuit for charging and discharging the first battery pack 1902 that is similar to Figure 31, with the exception that the configuration of Figure 32 includes a battery pack 1920 that can be used to charging 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. The battery cells 1922, 1924, and 1926 in the 1920 pack may be charging station internal battery cells and/or other battery packs inserted into the charging station. The 1922, 1924, 1926 cells in the 1920 pack can be used, for example, to quickly charge the first 1902 battery pack, such as in a situation where a replacement battery pack is needed in an ongoing process. In the illustrated arrangement, the 1922, 1924, and 1926 cells in the 1920 array can be connected in series or in parallel to provide higher voltage (when connected in series) or greater 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 source of current when connected in parallel.

[0233] In one aspect, again with reference to Figure 29A, if a physician is in the midst of a procedure and needs a new set of batteries to complete the procedure, the physician (or his assistant) may select and remove from the charging 1700 one of the battery packs that is fully charged and ready to use, which can be indicated on the 1709 screen of the 1700 charging station. If none of the 1702 battery packs are indicated as ready to use, the clinician can press the emergency release 1780, for example, which can release the battery pack 1702 currently in the charging station 1700 with the greatest amount of charge, as determined by the 1736 charge controller and/or the 1722 charging station processor, so that the partially charged battery pack can be inserted into the cable module being used in the procedure. The charging station 1700 may also include visual indicators to indicate which battery pack 1702 is being released in the 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 through 29C, activation of emergency release button 1780 may cause the connection means disconnects (or loosens) the appropriate battery pack 1702 as described in the present invention. At approximately the same time, the charging station 1722 may 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 circuit 1736, change the charging profile (e.g., constant current or constant voltage charging), charge the battery pack with a 1908 supercapacitor (or supercapacitors), and/or charging the battery pack with one or more other battery cells (which may be connected in series or in parallel, as described here). In various arrangements, the 1702 battery pack is not released (e.g., by disconnecting screw 1724) until short-term charging charges the 1702 battery pack to a charge level or threshold charge that is sufficient to complete a or two shots.

[0234] In various aspects, the charging station can also be configured to facilitate proper placement of the battery packs in the charging station for charging and/or to improve the coupling between the electrical contacts between the battery pack and the charging station charging terminals to 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 regardless of how the battery pack is inserted into the cavity/receptacle, the charging terminals of the battery pack make contact with each other. charging station charging terminals. Figures 33A and 33B illustrate top views of a battery pack 2000 and a charging station 2002, respectively, where 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 2000 battery pack with a 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 arrangement illustrated, the 2006, 2008 terminals are not centered on top of the 2000 battery pack. As this type of 2000 battery pack can be inserted into one of the square shaped cavities/receptacles in one of four configurations of (each turn 90 degrees, and, assuming the side of battery pack 2000 with terminals 2006 to 2008 is always facing downwards), each cavity/receptacle can have four pairs of charging terminals positioned therein, so that regardless of As the 2000 battery pack is rotated when it is inserted into the 2004 cavity/receptacle, the 2006 to 2008 off-center battery pack terminals will make contact with one of the 2010 charging station terminal pairs. Each pair of terminals of charging station 2010 is connected to the charging circuit of the charging station, but only the 2010 pair that contacts the terminals of the 2006 to 2008 battery pack will have a complete circuit so that charging current can flow to the 2000 battery pack. In another arrangement, as shown in Figures 34A and 34B, one of the battery pack terminals could be in the center of the 2000 battery pack In the illustrated case, the negative terminal 2008 is in the center with the positive terminal 2006 on one side; however, the opposite provision can 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 each side of the central terminal 2014 for contacting the positive terminal 2006 regardless of how the battery pack is inserted into the cavity/receptacle 2000. For battery packs that have other geometries, a smaller or greater number of pairs of terminals in the cavities/receptacles may be required (such as two pairs for one rectangular battery pack).

[0235] As discussed above, a surgical instrument may include a battery pack that may 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 off during mounting on the surgical instrument and/or transport to a charging station. As discussed in more detail below, the battery pack can be configured to protect the battery compartment, battery cells, and/or power supply circuitry of the battery pack in the event that the battery pack is inadvertently dropped.

[0236] Now referring to Figure 38, a battery pack, such as 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 the 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. The battery pack 5000 additionally comprises one or more alignment features 5012 configured to assist a user in mounting the battery pack properly on the surgical instrument. The 5012 alignment features comprise slots, for example, that can be aligned with projections extending from the surgical instrument. The 5012 alignment features are arranged symmetrically around the perimeter of the 5010 battery compartment. Although not illustrated, other embodiments are contemplated in which the 5012 alignment features comprise a non-symmetrical configuration that allows the 5000 battery pack 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 battery pack 5000 is attached to the surgical instrument, battery pack 5000 can transmit electrical power to electrical receive contacts of the surgical instrument.

[0237] The 5010 battery compartment can act as a container configured to house the 5030 internal components and/or act as a support structure configured to support various components thereon. Functioning as a container and/or 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 inner 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.

[0238] Several modalities discussed here pertain to protecting a battery pack for use with a surgical instrument. Referring again to Figure 38, battery pack 5000 comprises radial and/or vertical reinforcement configured to protect battery compartment 5010, internal components 5030 and/or electrical contacts 5011. Radial and/or vertical reinforcement may comprise a shock-absorbing layer, for example. In various cases, the shock absorbing layer may surround battery compartment 5010 to absorb an impact force that is applied to a side face 5015, bottom face 5016 and/or a corner 5014 of 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 lieu of the foregoing, the battery pack may further comprise an external compartment for additional protection. . The external compartment can be configured to accommodate the 5010 battery compartment and shock absorbing layer.

[0239] A means for protecting the battery pack 5000 is illustrated in detail in Figure 38A, for example, comprising a battery compartment, or inner compartment 5010, and a shock absorbing layer 5020. As discussed above, the compartment 5010 is formed of a rigid material 5010 that can support internal components 5030 of battery pack 5000. Shock absorbing layer 5020 may include a lattice structure 5022 comprising a plurality of cells 5024. Cells 5024 may decrease density of the shock absorbing layer 5020. The cells 5024 may have an open cell structure and/or a closed cell structure. In addition, the lattice structure 5022 may comprise one or more lattice layers. For example, the lattice structure 5022 may include a first, or inner, lattice layer 5022 and a second, or outer, lattice layer.

[0240] The lattice 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 warping and/or deformation of the struts 5025. Therefore, the shock absorbing layer 5020 may absorb shock and/or vibrational energy instead. relying on the battery compartment 5010 to absorb energy, which could, in some circumstances, result in damage to the internal components 5030 of the battery pack 5000. In many cases, the shock absorbing layer 5020 may comprise a structure similar to foam and/or an elastomeric material, for example.

[0241] In several cases, again referring to Figure 38, cells 5024 are arranged in rows, for example with an inner row of cells 5026, an intermediate row of cells 5027 and an outer row of cells 5028. 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 planar walls 5028a of cells 5028 are at least substantially parallel with an outer surface 5029 of shock absorbing layer 5020. Orient planar walls 5026a, 5028a of each cell of inner tier 5026 and tier external 5028 in this way can create a more shock resistant 5020 shock absorbing layer. Shock absorbing layer 5020 may comprise corner portions positioned near corners 5014 of battery compartment 5010 that can absorb an impact force applied to a corner 5014 of battery compartment 5010. Corner portions 5020 are not connected to each other. others; however, modalities are contemplated in which the corner portions 5020 could be connected to each other.

[0242] In various cases, the battery pack 5000 comprises a plurality of shock absorbing elements 5020. The shock absorbing elements 5020 are positioned to protect the corners 5014 of the battery pack 5000. In various cases, a force of impact may be more concentrated at the corners 5014, which may increase the risk of damage to the 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 the battery compartment 5010 to prevent damage to the electrical contacts 5011, for example, and still protect the battery pack 5000. If the battery pack 5000 falls in an orientation such that the bottom face 5016 is at least substantially parallel to the ground, one or more of the end portions 5021 can absorb impact force and dissipate impact energy.

[0243] It may be preferred that a battery pack be usable after experiencing an impact force, such as when the battery pack 5000 is dropped inadvertently. 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 power to the instrument's receiving electrical contacts. surgery 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 deform permanently only if the impact force equals or exceeds the deformation force threshold. The deformable zones may limit the direction of deformation of the shock absorbing elements 5020 toward the center of the battery pack 5000. This inward deformation may preserve the ability of the battery pack 5000 to fit within the battery-receiving portion of the instrument. surgical instrument by avoiding an outward deformation that could cause the 5000 battery pack to form a shape that does not fit the battery receiving portion of the surgical instrument.

[0244] 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 needs to be replaced, the battery pack 5000 may be configured so that the user of the surgical instrument can remove damaged shock absorbing elements from the 5000 battery pack and then attach usable shock absorbing elements to the battery 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.

[0245] Mounting the 5020 Shock Absorbing Elements to the 5000 Battery Pack may be necessary when the 5020 Shock Absorbing Elements need to be replaced. In various cases, shock absorbing elements 5020 comprise one or more protuberances 5023 configured to slide and/or wedge fit into corresponding slots 5013 in battery compartment 5010. Slots 5013 are configured to receive protuberances 5023 of new and/or usable shock absorbing elements in case the 5020 shock absorbing elements need to be replaced. In various cases, the protuberances 5023 and the slots 5013 may comprise a snap fit therebetween, which may allow the protuberances 5023 to slide within the slots 5013 along the corners of the housing 5010. In at least one case, the protuberances 5023 and slots 5013 may comprise a wedge fit therebetween. In many cases, the shock absorbing elements 5020 can be attached to the battery compartment 5010 in a snap-fit mode. In at least one instance, battery compartment 5010 may comprise openings configured to receive protuberances 5023 in a snap-fit mode. In certain cases, protrusions 5023 may enter slots 5013 radially in a snap-fit manner. In addition to or in place of the foregoing, shock absorbing elements 5020 may be attached to housing 5010 using an adhesive, for example.

[0246] In various cases, the battery pack 5000 additionally comprises a shock absorbing cover 5050. The shock absorbing cover 5050 is positioned on an outer end 5002 of the battery pack 5000. The shock absorbing cover comprises a 5051 shoulder configured to contact the surgical instrument when the 5000 battery pack is fully seated in the surgical instrument. The shoulder 5051 can act as a stop, for example, and can define the fully seated position of the battery pack 5000. In many cases, the shoulder 5051 is configured to be in a position bordering the 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 5000 battery pack is not attached to the surgical instrument, the 5050 shock absorbing cap can still protect the 5000 battery pack if the 5000 battery pack is dropped in an orientation such that the top face is at least substantially parallel to the ground.

[0247] 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 5050 The shock 5050 may comprise a material similar to that of the shock absorbing layer 5020. A denser grid 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 cover 5050 comprises a central portion 5053 comprising a vertical truss arrangement 5056 configured to absorb impact energy generated by the impact force applied to the central portion 5053. In various instances, the vertical truss arrangement 5056 is configured to dissipate a widely applied impact force.

[0248] 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 collapsible zones to prevent the 5000 battery pack from bouncing on the ground, for example if the 5000 battery pack is dropped.

[0249] Shock absorbing cap 5050 is readily replaceable. In the event that the 5050 Shock Absorbing Cap experiences an excessive amount of deformation that requires replacement of the 5050 Shock Absorbing Cap, the 5000 Battery Pack can be configured so that the user of the surgical instrument can remove the absorbing cap shock absorber from the 5000 battery pack, and attach a usable shock absorbing cover.

[0250] In various cases, the shock absorbing elements 5020 may be connected by intermediate portions. Intermediate portions can be configured to protect the 5015 side faces and/or the 5012 alignment features of the 5010 battery compartment. It should be noted that if an impact force is applied over the surface area of a 5015 side face of the compartment battery pack 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 5010 battery compartment that has a smaller surface area. In other words, 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 that the intermediate portions between the shock absorbing elements 5020 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.

[0251] Each of the shock absorbing elements 5020 of the battery pack 5000 comprises a similar construction; however, other embodiments are contemplated 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 the 5010 battery compartment, for example.

[0252] A 5100 battery pack, which is similar to the 5000 battery pack in many respects, is shown in Figure 40. The 5100 battery pack may comprise means for protecting the internal components 5030 of the 5100 battery pack from damage by impact shock and/or heat. Various means of protecting the 5100 battery pack from 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.

[0253] 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 to 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 5031 battery cells absorbs and/or retains a harmful amount of heat Q, the 5031 battery cells can experience a "thermal avalanche" event and fail.

[0254] Now referring to Figure 40A, the battery compartment 5110 comprises a heat reflective wrap, or shield, 5111, a shock absorbing layer 5112, and a heat sink layer 5113. The reflective wrap 5111 is configured to reflect and/or block the transfer of heat Q generated by poor sterilization, for example. In various cases, the reflective wrapper 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 event, the reflective wrapper 5111 may comprise an outer reflective surface that 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.

[0255] In addition to the above, heat sink layer 5113 is configured to absorb heat that passes through reflective 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 may generate an unusual amount of heat due to overloading and/or overusing them. In various 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.

[0256] In addition to the above, 5031 battery cells can expand when being charged. The 5031 expanding battery cells can push the 5113 heatsink layer out. In addition, the 5113 heatsink layer can quickly expand outwards 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 toward the reflective wrapper 5111 and apply pressure to the reflective wrapper 5111. Such pressure can generate tension within the reflective wrapper. 5111, heat sink layer 5113 and battery cells 5031, especially in embodiments where reflective wrap 5111 is comprised of a material that has a lower thermal expansion rate than heat sink layer 5113. In such In some cases, the 5113 heat sink layer may expand more than the 5111 reflective wrap, thus creating additional stress on the 5111 reflective wrap, 5113 heat sink layer, and 5031 battery cells.

[0257] The 5112 shock absorbing layer is configured to allow expansion of the 5031 battery cells while preventing damage to the 5110 battery compartment. Acting as a degree of freedom for the 5110 battery compartment, the shock absorber 5112 may expand and/or contract to control expansion and/or contraction of battery cells 5031 by allowing heat sink layer 5113 and at least one battery cell 5031 to expand and/or contract due to heat transfer while maintaining the carrying capacity of the 5100 battery pack. In many cases, the expansion and contraction of the 5112 shock absorbing layer can prevent damage to the 5110 battery compartment. 5112 shock can absorb thermal shock as well as impact shock.

[0258] Referring 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 drive shaft 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. 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 for example. 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 and/or attached power supply. by wire, for example. This design can be advantageous for many reasons. For example, when the 5300 surgical instrument system is not hardwired to a power source, the entire 5300 surgical instrument system may 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 required power.

[0259] Again with reference to Figure 41, the battery positioned in the 5311 battery cavity of the 5310 cable can be removed and replaced with a 5360 power supply adapter, 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. Distal plug 5361 can engage the same electrical contacts 5316, depending on which one is positioned in the 5311 battery cavity. power supply 5360 mating with cable 5310. In other cases, the battery engages a first set of electrical contacts 5316 and the distal plug 5361 engages another set of electrical contacts 5316. In such cases, a 5310 cable's microprocessor can be configured to identify whether the 5360 battery or power supply adapter is attached to the 5310 cable.

[0260] Distal Plug 5361 of Power Supply Adapter 5360 can comprise any suitable shape as long as Distal Plug 5361 is positioned in battery cavity 5311. In many cases, Distal Plug 5361 may comprise the same geometry as the battery, for example. In certain cases, the 5361 distal plug housing is analogous or sufficiently similar to the battery housing. In either case, the 5361 Distal Plug can be configured so that there is little or no relative movement between the 5361 Distal Plug and the 5311 Battery Cavity after the 5361 Distal Plug is fully seated in the 5311 Battery Cavity. In at least one case, the distal plug 5361 comprises a stop 5368 configured to contact a "datum" (starting point) of stop 5318 defined in cable compartment 5312. When the stop of the 5368 plug contacts the "datum " of the 5318 cord, the 5361 plug may be fully seated in the 5311 battery cavity. The 5310 cord and/or 5361 plug may comprise a latch configured to retain the 5361 plug in its fully seated position. For example, plug 5361 comprises at least one latch 5362 configured to releasably engage housing 5312.

[0261] The 5360 power supply adapter additionally comprises a 5363 power cord extending from the 5361 plug. The 5363 power cord electrically couples the 5361 plug with a power source, such as the 5370 power supply, for example. Power supply 5370 may comprise any suitable power source, such as a signal generator that receives power from a 110V, 60 Hz power supply and/or a battery, for example. The 5363 power cord comprises any suitable number of conductors and insulators to transmit electrical power from the 5370 power supply to the 5361 plug. In at least one instance, the 5363 power cord comprises a supply conductor, a return conductor, and a for example, which are electrically insulated from each other by an insulating jacket. Each conductor of the 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 separate from the 5370 power supply.

[0262] In various cases, the 5370 power supply may comprise a direct current (DC) power supply, for example. In such cases, the battery and the 5360 power supply adapter can both supply DC 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 the 5310 cable that is equal to and/or exceeds the electrical power that the battery can supply to the 5310 cable. In at least one case, a surgeon using the 5310 cable as part of the 5300 surgical instrument system may determine that the 5310 cable does not receive power, and then remove the battery from the 5310 cable and attach the 5360 power supply adapter to the 5310 cable. The 5370 power supply can then be operated to supply sufficient power to the 5310 cable through the 5360 power supply adapter to operate the surgical instrument system in the desired manner. In certain cases, the 5370 power supply can supply a higher voltage to the 5310 cable, for example.

[0263] In certain cases, the 5370 power supply may comprise an alternating current (AC) power supply. In at least one such case, 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 5360 battery and power supply adapter can both supply DC DC power to the 5310 cable, depending on which one is electrically coupled to the 5310 cable. The AC/DC power converter may 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 on plug 5361; however, the AC/DC power converter can be positioned inside the 5360 power supply adapter at any suitable location, such as the 5363 cable, for example.

[0264] In many cases, the 5310 cable includes an AC/DC power converter in addition to or in place of the 5360 power supply adapter's AC/DC power converter. Such an 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 into DC power, while the first circuit segment does not include an AC/DC power converter as the battery is already configured to supply DC power.

[0265] Again with reference to Figure 41, the 5310 cable may be in a 5301 sterile field of operation and the 5370 power supply may be in a 5302 non-sterile field. In such cases, the 5360 power supply adapter may become 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 separation 5303. The separation 5303 may comprise a physical separation, such as a wall, for example, or an intermediate virtual separation between a sterile operating table and a non-sterile back table, for example.

[0266] To use the 5360 power supply adapter, the battery positioned in the 5311 battery cavity needs to be removed so that the 5361 plug of the 5360 power supply adapter is installed in the 5311 battery cavity. which the battery can remain in the 5311 battery cavity when a power supply adapter is operationally coupled to the 5310 cable. Now referring to Figure 42, a 5461 battery can be positioned in the 5311 battery cavity. The 5461 battery is readily removable from battery cavity 5311 when latch 5362 is deactivated; however, embodiments are provided in which the battery 5461 is not readily removable from the battery cavity 5311. Similar to the plug 5361, the battery 5461 can be sized and configured so that the battery 5461 is snugly received in the battery cavity 5311. , so as to limit relative movement between the battery 5461 and the battery cavity 5311 when the battery 5461 is fully seated in the battery cavity 5311. Also similar to the plug 5361, the battery 5461 comprises an end stop 5468 configured to enter into contact with the stop datum 5318 of the cable 5310.

[0267] The 5461 battery comprises one or more lithium-ion battery cells, for example, positioned therein. 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 power required 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 power supply adapter power supply 5360 in many ways. Similar to the above, the power supply adapter 5460 comprises a power cord 5463 that includes a proximal end 5369, which can be connected to a power source, such as the power supply 5370, for example. The 5461 battery includes a 5464 electrical connector defined therein that is configured to receive a 5465 distal connector from the 5463 power cable to electrically couple the 5370 power supply to the 5461 battery.

[0268] In at least one case, in addition to the above, the 5460 power supply adapter can be positioned in series with the 5461 battery cells when the 5465 adapter connector is inserted into the 5464 battery connector. In such cases, battery 5461 and power supply 5370 can supply power to cable 5310. Figure 43 shows such an embodiment. As shown in Figure 43, a 5461' battery comprises a power supply circuit that includes one or more 5470' battery cells that are configured to supply DC power to the 5310 cable. When the 5460 power supply adapter is electrically coupled to the battery 5461', the power supply 5370 may, firstly, recharge the battery cells 5470' via a recharging circuit 5471' and/or, secondly, supplement the power that the battery cells 5470' are supplying to cable 5310. In cases where the power supply 5370 comprises an AC power supply, the battery 5461' may comprise an AC/DC transformer 5467' which is configured to convert the AC power supplied by the power supply 5370 to 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 arrangement for the power supply circuit may be used.

[0269] In other cases, inserting the adapter connector 5465 into the battery connector 5464 can electrically couple the 5370 power supply to the 5310 cable and, at the same time, electrically decouple the battery cells in the 5461 battery from the cable 5310. Figure 44 shows such modality. As shown in Figure 44, a 5461" battery comprises a power supply circuit that includes one or more 5470" battery cells that are configured to supply DC power to the 5310 cable. The 5470" battery cells are in electrical communication with the 5366 battery contacts through a 5472" first circuit segment and a 5474" battery switch when the 5465 adapter connector is not positioned on the 5464 battery connector. In such cases, the 5474" battery switch 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 able to supply electrical power to the 5366 contacts. Additionally, the 5460 power supply adapter and 5464 battery connector are in electrical communication with the 5366 battery contacts through a second 5473" circuit segment and the 5474" battery switch when the 5474" switch 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" which is configured to convert the AC power supplied by the 5370 power supply in DC power.

[0270] As discussed above, with reference again to Figure 44, the 5474" battery switch can be operated to selectively position the first 5472" parallel circuit segment that includes the 5470" battery cells in electrical communication with the battery contacts 5366 when the 5474" switch is in its first switch state and, alternatively, the second 5473" parallel circuit segment that includes the 5464 battery connector and 5467" AC/DC transformer in electrical communication with the 5366 battery contacts when the 5474" key is in its second key state. The 5474" battery key may comprise a mechanical key, an electromechanical key, and/or an electronic key, as described in more detail below.

[0271] A mechanical battery switch 5474" may comprise a slide bus that is pushed between a first position associated with a first key state of the switch 5474" and a second position associated with a second key state of the switch 5474", for example. In the first position of the slide bus, the bus couples the first circuit segment 5472" to the battery contacts 5366, but does not couple the second circuit segment 5473" to the battery contacts 5366. couples second circuit segment 5473" to battery contacts 5366, but does not couple first circuit segment 5472" to battery contacts 5366. Battery 5461 may additionally comprise a tilt 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 can 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 the 5465 adapter connector is removed from the 5464 battery connector, the tilt member can return the bus to its first position and electrically reattach the 5470" battery cells to the 5366 battery contacts. In certain alternative embodiments, inserting the adapter connector 5465 on battery connector 5464 can permanently decouple the 5470" battery cells from the 5466 battery contacts. In at least such an embodiment, the 5461" battery may comprise a latch configured to retain the bus in its second position after the bus is pushed to the second position by the 5465 adapter connector. Such a mode can provide a permanent lock to prevent the 5461" battery from being used again to supply power from the 5470" battery cells, as it may not be desirable and/or reliably reuse and/or recharge a battery that is unable to provide sufficient power to the 5310 cable.

[0272] 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 the 5465 adapter connector is electrically coupled to the 5464 battery connector. The relay may comprise an electromagnet, which may include a wire coil and an armature, for example, which is activated when the 5465 adapter connector contacts interface with the 5464 battery connector. In at least one case, the 5460 power supply adapter may comprise a relay control circuit in addition to the power circuits, 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, the 5474" switch may comprise a latch relay, for example. In at least one case, the switch 5474" may comprise a contactor, for example, which may be electronically controlled by a microprocessor and a control circuit, for example.

[0273] Certain electronic switches may not have any moving components, such as 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 several cases, an electronic switch may comprise a microprocessor and a sensor in signal communication with the microprocessor that detects whether the 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. In certain cases, the microprocessor may respond to a control signal received from the 5370 power supply, 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.

[0274] 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 cable; however, an AC/DC power transformer can be positioned in any suitable location on the 5460 power supply adapter.

[0275] In many cases, a power supply adapter system may include a battery, such as the 5361, 5461, 5461' and/or 5461" battery, for example, and a power supply adapter, such as the power supply adapter. 5360 and/or 5460 power supply, for example.

[0276] 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. Handle 5510 additionally comprises one or more battery cells, such as the 5470 battery cells, for example, positioned in the 5511 gripping portion. In many cases, the 5470 battery cells can supply sufficient power to the 5510 cable 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 supplemental battery, such as the 5560 supplemental battery, for example, can be attached to the cable. 5510 to supply power to the 5510 cable.

[0277] In addition to the above, referring primarily to Figure 47, the battery cells 5470 are arranged in series as part of a 5513 battery power supply circuit. The 5513 battery power supply circuit is in electrical communication with a 5516 electrical connector defined in the 5512 compartment. The 5516 electrical connector may comprise any suitable number of electrical contacts. In at least one case, the 5516 electrical connector 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.

[0278] Cable 5510 further comprises a connector cover 5517. Connector cover 5517 is movable between a first position in which it covers electrical connector 5516 and a second position in which electrical connector 5516 is exposed. Housing 5512 comprises a slot 5518 defined therein, configured to slidably receive and support connector cover 5517. Cable 5510 further comprises a tilt member, such as spring 5519, for example, positioned in slot 5518 between the 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.

[0279] As discussed above, the supplemental battery 5560 is attachable to the handle 5510. The supplemental battery 5560 comprises a compartment 5562 and one or more battery cells, such as battery cells 5570, for example, positioned therein. The 5570 battery cells are arranged in series as part of a 5563 supplemental battery supply circuit. The 5563 supplemental battery supply circuit is in electrical communication with an electrical connector 5566 defined in battery compartment 5562. The electrical connector 5566 comprises the same number of electrical contacts as the 5516 electrical connector, and they are configured to form matching pairs with the electrical contacts of the 5516 electrical connector.

[0280] The compartment 5562 of the supplemental battery 5560 further comprises a cavity, or receptacle, 5561 defined therein, which is configured to receive the gripping portion 5511 of the cable 5510. The cavity 5561 is configured to narrowly receive the portion grip 5511 so that there is little or no relative movement between the supplemental battery 5560 and the cable 5510 when the supplemental battery 5560 is fully mounted thereto. While the 5560 supplemental battery is mounted on the 5510 cable, the 5562 compartment contacts the 5517 connector cover and pushes the 5517 connector cover to 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 mate with contacts of electrical connector 5516. At this point, the 5563 supplemental battery supply circuit has been electrically coupled to the 5513 battery power supply circuit.

[0281] The 5516 and 5566 electrical connectors may be positioned and arranged so that they do not engage each other until the 5560 supplemental battery has been fully seated in the 5511 gripping portion. In other embodiments, the 5516 and 5566 electrical connectors may be positioned and arranged so that they engage each other before the supplemental 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 supplemental 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 cable; however, arrangements are contemplated in which the lock does not allow the 5560 supplementary battery to be easily released from the 5510 cable.

[0282] As discussed above, the 5563 supplemental battery supply circuit is electrically coupled to the 5513 battery power supply circuit when the 5560 supplemental battery is mounted on the 5510 cable. In various cases, the 5570 supplemental battery cells 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, the 5570 supplemental battery cells of the 5560 supplemental battery are positioned in parallel with the 5470 battery cells of the 5510 cable. In at least such an instance, the 5470 cable battery cells may be electrically decoupled from the 5510 cable when the Supplemental 5570 battery cells are electrically coupled to the 5510 cable. Such embodiments can be useful when a short circuit occurs in the 5470 cable battery cells. Various embodiments of the 5510 cable may include a switch that can allow the user to selectively position the cells 5570 battery packs in series with or in parallel with 5470 cable battery cells. Examples

[0283] Example 1 - A surgical apparatus comprising a handle module comprising an attachment portion, wherein a detachable drive shaft module is attachable to the attachment portion to collectively perform a surgical procedure, and wherein the cable comprises a swivel drive system to drive the detachable drive shaft module, an electric motor coupled to the swivel drive system to power the swivel 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 circuitry being programmed to control the electric motor, follow an end parameter lifespan for the cable module based on input from one or more sensors, and keep a count of the end-of-life parameter.

[0284] 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 circuitry determines that the count for the end-of-life parameter reaches a threshold value.

[0285] Example 3 - The surgical device of Example 2, wherein the means to perform the end-of-life action comprises a screen that displays to a user of the surgical device information indicating that the end-of-life parameter has reached a limit value.

[0286] Example 4 - The surgical instrument from Example 3, where the screen displays the count.

[0287] Example 5 - The surgical device of Examples 3 or 4, where the screen displays an indicator that indicates a number of uses remaining for the cable module before the threshold value is reached.

[0288] Example 6 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 2, 3, 4 or 5, wherein the means for performing the end-of-life action comprises means for disabling the cable module for a subsequent surgical procedure.

[0289] Example 7 - The surgical apparatus of Example 6, wherein the means for disabling the cable module comprises means for disabling the operation of the electric motor.

[0290] Example 8 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 6 or 7, wherein the means for disabling the cable module comprises means for preventing the installation of a charged battery pack in the cable module.

[0291] Example 9 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8, where the end-of-life parameter is selected from the group consisting of multiple triggers through the cable module, multiple 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.

[0292] Example 10 - The surgical device of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9, where the end-of-life parameter is computed according to a function whose inputs include the number of shots by the cable module and the number of surgical procedures involving the cable module.

[0293] Example 11 - The surgical device of Example 10, where the function computes the end-of-life parameter through the use of different weighting coefficients for different separable drive shaft modules.

[0294] Example 12 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or 11, wherein the detachable drive shaft module comprises an end actuator with a trigger member which, when triggered, traverses a length of stroke, and wherein 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 stroke length of the trigger member.

[0295] Example 13 - The surgical device of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12, where the end-of-life parameter comprises the number of times the cable module has been sterilized.

[0296] Example 14 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 or 13, wherein 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.

[0297] Example 15 - The surgical apparatus of Example 14, wherein the sterilization sensor comprises a switch that is actuated when the protective sterilization cover is attached to the cable module.

[0298] Example 16 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15, further comprising an inspection station, wherein 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 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 when the cable module is connected to the inspection station.

[0299] Example 17 - A surgical apparatus comprising a handle module that is attachable to a detachable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, wherein the handle module comprises a swivel drive system that is activatable to drive the detachable drive shaft module, an electric motor coupled to the swivel drive system to power the swivel drive system, and a means to track a count of an end-of-life parameter for the cable module based on the number of times the rotary drive system is activated.

[0300] Example 18 - The surgical apparatus of Example 17, wherein the means for tracking the end-of-life parameter count comprises a processor circuit and a memory, wherein the memory stores program code that is executed by the processor to keep track of the end-of-life parameter count for the cable module.

[0301] Example 19 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 17 or 18, wherein the cable module is powered by a removable battery pack, and wherein the means for tracking the end-of-life parameter count for the cable additionally relies on the number of times a removable battery pack is connected to the cable module.

[0302] Example 20 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 17, 18 or 19, further comprising a sterilization tray for retaining 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 in the sterilization tray.

[0303] Example 21 - An apparatus comprising a handle module that is attachable to a detachable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, wherein the handle module comprises a swivel drive system to drive the shaft module drive, 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 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 connected to the inspection station.

[0304] Example 22 - The apparatus of Example 21, wherein 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.

[0305] Example 23 - The apparatus of Examples 21 or 22, wherein 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.

[0306] Example 24 - The apparatus of Example 23, wherein the one or more tests comprise a cable module seal integrity test.

[0307] Example 25 - The apparatus of Examples 23 or 24, wherein the one or more tests comprise a gear backlash test for the cable module's rotary drive system.

[0308] Example 26 - The apparatus of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24 or 25, wherein the inspection station is configured to perform a conditioning action to condition the cable module for use in a subsequent surgical procedure.

[0309] Example 27 - The apparatus of Example 26, wherein the conditioning action comprises drying components of the cable module.

[0310] Example 28 - The apparatus of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 or 27, wherein the inspection station comprises one or more fans for blowing air into the cable module components.

[0311] Example 29 - The apparatus of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 or 28, wherein the inspection station comprises a vacuum port for drying the cable module components with the air flow of vacuum pressure.

[0312] Example 30 - The apparatus of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 or 29, wherein the inspection station additionally comprises a load simulation adapter connectable to the module's rotary drive system cable.

[0313] Example 31 - The apparatus of Example 30, wherein the load simulation adapter comprises a motor to supply a simulated load to the cable module's rotary drive system.

[0314] Example 32 - The apparatus of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 or 31, wherein the inspection station is additionally connected to the detachable drive shaft module.

[0315] Example 33 - A surgical procedure comprising performing, on the part of a physician, a surgical procedure on a patient with a surgical instrument comprising a cable module connected to a detachable drive shaft module, wherein the 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 data about the surgical procedure stored in the memory of the inspection module to an inspection station memory. cable, and while the cable module is connected to the inspection station, visually display information about the cable module on an inspection station screen.

[0316] Example 34 - The surgical procedure 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, wherein 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.

[0317] 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.

[0318] Example 36 - The surgical procedure of Example 35, wherein the one or more tests comprise a cable module seal integrity test.

[0319] Example 37 - The surgical procedure of Examples 35 or 36, wherein the one or more tests comprise a gear backlash test.

[0320] 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.

[0321] Example 39 - The surgical process of Example 38, wherein the conditioning action comprises drying components of the cable module.

[0322] Example 40 - A surgical apparatus comprising a handle module that is attachable to a detachable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, wherein the handle module comprises a swivel drive system to drive the drive module. separable drive shaft, an electric motor coupled to the rotary drive system to power 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.

[0323] Example 41 - The surgical apparatus of Example 40, where the processor circuit monitors the performance parameter of the cable module by monitoring whether the performance parameter is below or above the acceptable performance range.

[0324] Example 42 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 40 or 41, wherein the cable module additionally comprises a means for taking corrective action when the cable module processor circuit determines that the performance parameter is out of range. acceptable performance.

[0325] Example 43 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 40, 41 or 42, wherein the performance parameter comprises an electric motor performance parameter.

[0326] Example 44 - The surgical device of Example 43, where the electric motor performance parameter comprises the energy consumed by the electric motor during the lifetime of the cable module.

[0327] 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 trip of the cable module.

[0328] Example 46 - The surgical device of Examples 43, 44 or 45, in which the electric motor performance parameter comprises the energy consumed by the electric motor during the cable module's useful life and the power consumed by the electric motor for each cable module trip.

[0329] Example 47 - The surgical apparatus of Example 46, in which the cable module processor circuit is programmed to determine that corrective action must be taken when at least one of the following conditions is satisfied: the energy consumed by the electric motor during the lifetime of the cable module exceeds a first energy limit value, and the energy consumed by the electric motor during the lifetime of the cable module exceeds a second energy limit value, which is less than the first limit value of power, and the cable module had a threshold number of device trips above a threshold power level.

[0330] Example 48 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46 or 47, wherein the performance parameter comprises an electric motor output torque.

[0331] Example 49 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47 or 48, wherein the performance parameter comprises a performance parameter of the rotary drive system.

[0332] Example 50 - The surgical apparatus of Example 49, wherein the performance parameter of the rotary drive system comprises a gear backlash.

[0333] Example 51 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 or 50, wherein the means for performing the corrective action comprises a screen for displaying a condition of the cable module.

[0334] 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 means for disabling the cable module.

[0335] Example 53 - The surgical apparatus of Example 52, wherein the means for disabling the cable module comprises means for preventing the insertion of a removable battery pack loaded into the cable module to power the cable module during a procedure surgical.

[0336] 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 lock.

[0337] Example 55 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 53 or 54, wherein the means to prevent insertion of a charged removable battery pack comprises a latch which, when actuated, prevents removal of a discharged removable battery pack from the module cable.

[0338] Example 56 - A surgical apparatus comprising a detachable drive shaft module and a cable module connected to the detachable drive shaft module for collectively performing a surgical procedure, wherein the cable module comprises a swivel drive system for driving the separable drive shaft module, an electric motor coupled to the rotary drive system to power 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 to take corrective action after a determination that the performance parameter is outside an acceptable performance range.

[0339] Example 57 - The surgical device of Example 56, where the performance parameter comprises the energy consumed by the electric motor during the lifetime of the cable module.

[0340] Example 58 - The surgical device of Examples 56 or 57, where the performance parameter comprises the power consumed by the electric motor for each trip of the cable module.

[0341] Example 59 - The surgical device of Examples 56, 57 or 58, where the performance parameter comprises the electric motor output torque.

[0342] Example 60 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 56, 57, 58 or 59, wherein the means for performing the corrective action comprises means for disabling the cable module.

[0343] Example 61 - The surgical apparatus of Example 60, wherein the means for disabling the cable module comprises means for disabling the electric motor.

[0344] Example 62 - The surgical apparatus of Examples 60 or 61, wherein the means for disabling the cable module comprises means for preventing the insertion of a removable battery pack loaded into the cable module to power the cable module during a surgical procedure.

[0345] Example 63 - A combination comprising a cable module that is attachable to a detachable 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.

[0346] 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 charging 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.

[0347] Example 65 - The combination of Example 64, where 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.

[0348] Example 66 - The combination of Examples 64 or 65, where before rebalancing the battery cells, the charging station is configured to complete a charge of the battery cells.

[0349] Example 67 - The combination of Examples 63, 64, 65 or 66, wherein the charging station comprises a charging station processor circuit that determines whether the battery pack should be discharged, based on the charging data and discharge conditions stored in the battery pack memory and based on the discharge criteria, and wherein the charging station discharges the battery pack when the charging station processor circuit determines that the battery pack must be discharged.

[0350] 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.

[0351] Example 69 - The combination of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67 or 68, where the charging station is programmed to charge the battery pack at a time of day based on surgical procedure scheduling data for an organizational user of the charging station, and where surgical procedure programming data is stored in a memory of the charging station.

[0352] Example 70 - The combination of Example 69, where the surgical procedure scheduling data comprises a statistical probability that the organizational user is performing a surgical procedure with the cable module at the time of day.

[0353] Example 71 - The combination of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69 or 70, wherein the charging station comprises means for automatically attaching the battery pack to the charging station when the battery pack batteries is not ready for use in the cable module for a surgical procedure.

[0354] Example 72 - The combination of Example 71, wherein the means for automatically attaching the battery pack to the charging station comprises a screw which, when actuated by inserting the battery pack into the charging station, is threaded into the battery pack. batteries.

[0355] Example 73 - The combination of Examples 71 or 72 or, wherein the means for automatically attaching the battery pack to the charging station further comprises a linear actuator for actuating the screw.

[0356] Example 74 - The combination of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72 or 73, wherein the charging station comprises a screen for displaying charge status information about the battery pack.

[0357] Example 75 - The combination of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73 or 74, wherein the charging station comprises means for rapidly charging the first set of batteries when quick charge user input for the battery pack is received by the charging station.

[0358] Example 76 - The combination of Example 75, wherein the charging station comprises means for 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 .

[0359] Example 77 - A surgical procedure comprising performing, on the part of a physician, a surgical procedure on a patient with a surgical instrument comprising a cable module connected to a detachable 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 charging data and discharging data for the battery pack, removing the battery pack from the cable module after the same has been used during the surgical procedure, after the removal step, position the battery pack in a charging station to recharge the battery pack, after the positioning step, download through the charging station the data of battery pack memory charging and discharging, and after the download step, at least one of the charging and the discharging, via the charging station, the battery pack based on the charging data and discharge data stored in the battery pack memory.

[0360] Example 78 - The surgical procedure of Example 77, wherein the battery pack comprises a plurality of battery cells, and wherein the method further comprises: after the download step, determining, via the charging station , whether the battery cells should be rebalanced based on the charging data and discharge data stored in the battery pack memory, and based on the rebalancing criteria, and when determining that the rebalancing of the battery cells in the battery pack must be carried out, rebalance the battery cells through the charging station.

[0361] Example 79 - The surgical process of Examples 77 or 78, after the download step, which comprises rapidly charging the battery pack in response to receipt of fast charge user input.

[0362] Example 80 - The surgical procedure 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 to a surgical procedure.

[0363] Example 81 - A combination comprising a cable module that is attachable to a detachable 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 Quickly charge the battery pack when a quick charge user input for the battery pack is received by the charging station.

[0364] Example 82 - The combination of Example 81, where the charging station comprises a screen to display the state of charge of the battery pack.

[0365] Example 83 - The combination of Examples 81 or 82, where the charging station comprises a user interface through which a user enters fast charge user input into the charging station.

[0366] Example 84 - The combination of Example 83, where the user interface comprises a button on the charging station that is actuatable to provide the charging station with quick charge user input.

[0367] Example 85 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83 or 84, wherein the circuitry for rapidly charging the battery pack comprises circuitry for changing a charge profile for the battery pack.

[0368] Example 86 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83, 84 or 85, wherein the circuitry for changing the load profile for the battery pack comprises a voltage regulator connected to the battery pack, and a charge controller circuit connected to voltage regulator.

[0369] Example 87 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83, 84, 85 or 86, wherein the circuitry for rapidly charging the battery pack comprises a charging station charge storage device, and wherein the charge stored in the charge storage device is used to charge the battery pack.

[0370] Example 88 - The combination of Example 87, wherein the charge storage device comprises a supercapacitor.

[0371] Example 89 - The combination of Example 88, wherein the charging station further comprises a circuit of circuitry for discharging the first set of batteries in the supercapacitor.

[0372] Example 90 - The combination of Examples 87, 88 or 89, wherein the charge storage device comprises one or more battery cells internal to the charging station.

[0373] Example 91 - The combination of Examples 87, 88 or 89, wherein the charge storage device comprises a plurality of battery cells internal to the charging station, and wherein the circuitry for rapidly charging the battery pack batteries comprises circuitry for charging the battery pack with the plurality of battery cells.

[0374] Example 92 - The combination of Example 91, wherein the plurality of battery cells are connected in series.

[0375] Example 93 - The combination of Examples 91 or 92, wherein the plurality of battery cells are connected as current sources in parallel.

[0376] Example 94 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92 or 93, wherein the charging station additionally comprises a set of circuits for discharging the first battery pack in the plurality of internal battery cells.

[0377] Example 95 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93 or 94, wherein 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 battery pack comprises circuitry for charging the first battery pack with the charge stored in the second battery pack.

[0378] Example 96 - The combination of Example 95, wherein the charging station further comprises circuitry for discharging the first battery pack into the second battery pack.

[0379] Example 97 - The combination of Examples 95 or 96, wherein the charging station comprises a screen for displaying the state of charge of the first battery pack and the second battery pack.

[0380] Example 98 - The combination of Examples 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96 or 97, where the charging station comprises means for 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.

[0381] 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, wherein the charging station comprises 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, in order to quickly charge the battery pack if the battery pack is urgently needed in the surgical procedure.

[0382] 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.

[0383] Example 101 - An apparatus comprising a cable module that is attachable to a detachable drive module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, wherein the cable module comprises a cable module memory circuit for storing usage data from 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.

[0384] Example 102 - The apparatus of Example 101, wherein the inspection station additionally comprises a screen that is in communication with the inspection station's processor circuit, and wherein the screen is intended to display information about the one or more more service recommendations.

[0385] Example 103 - The apparatus of Examples 101 or 102, in which the service recommendation criteria are stored in an inspection station's inspection station memory, and in which the inspection station's processor circuit is in communication with inspection station memory.

[0386] Example 104 - The apparatus of Examples 101, 102 or 103, wherein the cable module comprises a cable module processor circuit in communication with the cable module memory circuit, and wherein the cable module processor circuitry cable module is in communication with the inspection station processor circuit when the cable module is connected to the inspection station, so that the cable module memory usage data is downloaded to the inspection station .

[0387] Example 105 - The apparatus of Examples 101, 102, 103 or 104, wherein 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 multiple device trips by the cable module, data related to power expended during device trips from the cable module, data related to forces experienced during device trips from the cable module, data related to the energy consumed by an electric motor of the cable module for the life of the cable module, and data related to gear backlash for a cable module rotary drive system.

[0388] Example 106 - The apparatus of Examples 101, 102, 103, 104 or 105, wherein the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that the cable module be rebuilt.

[0389] Example 107 - The apparatus of Examples 101, 102, 103, 104, 105 or 106, wherein the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that one or more components of the cable module be lubricated.

[0390] Example 108 - The apparatus of Examples 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106 or 107, wherein the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that one or more components of the cable module be inspected.

[0391] Example 109 - An apparatus comprising a cable module that is attachable to a detachable drive shaft module to collectively perform a surgical procedure, wherein the cable module comprises a cable module memory circuit for storing data cable 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.

[0392] Example 110 - The apparatus of Example 109, wherein the cable module additionally comprises a display which is in communication with the cable module processor circuit, and wherein the display is intended to display information about one or more more service recommendations.

[0393] Example 111 - The apparatus of Examples 109 or 110, where 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 triggers of device by the cable module, data related to the power expended during device trips of the cable module, data related to the forces experienced during device trips of the cable module, data related to the energy consumed by an electric motor of the cable module cable module life, and gear backlash related data for a cable module rotary drive system.

[0394] 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.

[0395] 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.

[0396] Example 114 - The apparatus of Examples 109, 110, 111, 112 or 113, wherein the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that one or more components of the cable module be lubricated.

[0397] Example 115 - The apparatus of Examples 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, or 114, wherein the one or more service recommendations comprise a recommendation that one or more components of the cable module be inspected.

[0398] 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 removably positioned in the battery cavity, wherein the battery is configured to supply direct current electrical power to the direct current electric motor, and a power adapter that includes a plug that can be removed removable 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 supply. The surgical instrument system further comprises an alternating current to direct current power converter configured to convert alternating current electrical power supplied by the power supply into direct current electrical power.

[0399] Example 117 - The surgical instrument system of Example 116, where the AC to DC power converter is positioned at the plug.

[0400] Example 118 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 116 or 117, wherein the battery comprises a battery compartment, wherein the plug comprises a plug compartment, and wherein the battery compartment is analogous to the plug compartment .

[0401] 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 engaging with the electrical cable 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 electrical cable contacts when the plug is positioned in the battery cavity.

[0402] Example 120 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 116, 117, 118 or 119, wherein the cable comprises a first set of cable electrical contacts and a second set of cable electrical contacts in the battery cavity, wherein the battery comprises a set of battery electrical 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 battery. second set of electrical cable contacts when the plug is positioned in the battery cavity.

[0403] Example 121 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 116, 117, 118, 119 or 120, wherein the AC to DC power converter is positioned within the cable and is in electrical communication with the second set of cable electrical contacts.

[0404] Example 122 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 116, 117, 118, 119, 120 or 121, further comprising a plurality of drive shaft assemblies, wherein each drive shaft assembly is selectively engageable with the handle .

[0405] Example 123 - The surgical instrument system of Example 122, wherein at least one of the drive shaft assemblies comprises a stapling cartridge.

[0406] Example 124 - A surgical instrument system comprising a handle that includes a battery cavity and a direct current electric motor, a power adapter that includes a battery positioned in the battery cavity, wherein the battery comprises at least a battery cell, an electrical connector, and a power cable snaps to the electrical connector, where 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 supplying direct current electrical power to the current electric motor. to be continued.

[0407] Example 125 - The surgical instrument system of Example 124, which further comprises a battery circuit, wherein the at least one battery cell, the AC to DC power converter 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 with the electrical connector.

[0408] Example 126 - The surgical instrument system of Example 124, further comprising a first battery circuit segment, wherein the first battery circuit segment includes the at least one battery cell, a second battery circuit segment battery, wherein the second battery circuit segment includes the alternating current to direct current 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 cell of battery can supply electrical power to the dc electric motor and the power supply cannot supply electrical power to the dc 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 electric power to the DC electric motor.

[0409] Example 127 - The surgical instrument system of Example 126, where the key is tilted to the first key state.

[0410] Example 128 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 126 or 127, wherein insertion of the power cord into the battery electrical connector switches the switch from the first switch state to the second switch state.

[0411] Example 129 - The surgical instrument system of Example 128, which further comprises a tilt member configured to return the key to a first key state.

[0412] Example 130 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 126, 127 or 128, wherein the key is unable to return to the first key state after being positioned in the second key state.

[0413] Example 131 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129 or 130, further comprising a plurality of drive shaft assemblies, wherein each drive shaft assembly is selectively engageable at the end.

[0414] Example 132 - The surgical instrument system of Example 131, wherein at least one of the drive shaft assemblies comprises a stapling cartridge.

[0415] Example 133 - A surgical instrument system comprising a cable including a cable compartment, a cable battery cell positioned in the cable compartment, a cable electrical circuit, wherein the cable battery cell is configured to supply 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 attachable to the cable, wherein the supplementary battery comprises a battery compartment attachable to the cable compartment, a battery electrical circuit, a supplementary battery cell positioned in the cell compartment, wherein the supplemental 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 matable to the cable electrical connector when the supplemental battery is coupled to the cable to position the battery electrical circuit in communication with the cable electrical circuit.

[0416] 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.

[0417] Example 135 - The surgical instrument system of Examples 133 or 134, wherein the cable further comprises a connector cover movable between a first position in which the connector cover inhibits accidental contact with the cable electrical connector and a second position in which the connector cover allows the battery electrical connector to be engaged with the cable electrical connector.

[0418] Example 136 - The surgical instrument system of Example 135, wherein the battery compartment is configured to move the connector cover between the first position and the second position when the supplemental battery is attached to the handle.

[0419] 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 assembly is selectively engageable with the handle.

[0420] Example 138 - The surgical instrument system of Example 137, wherein at least one of the drive shaft assemblies comprises a stapling cartridge.

[0421] 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 power 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 impact is applied to the shock absorbing element.

[0422] Example 140 - The surgical instrument of Example 139, wherein the shock absorbing element is replaceable.

[0423] Example 141 - The surgical instrument of Examples 139 or 140, wherein the shock absorbing element comprises an attachment means configured to allow the shock absorbing element to be attached to the battery pack in a snap-in mode. pressure.

[0424] Example 142 - The surgical instrument of Example 141, wherein the attachment means comprises an adhesive.

[0425] Example 143 - The surgical instrument of Examples 141 or 142, wherein the battery compartment further comprises an opening, and wherein the attachment means comprises a protrusion configured to be received by the opening in the battery compartment in a wedge fit.

[0426] Example 144 - The surgical instrument of Examples 139, 140, 141, 142 or 143, wherein the shock absorbing element comprises a lattice structure.

[0427] Example 145 - The surgical instrument of Examples 139, 140, 141, 142, 143 or 144, wherein when the shock-absorbing element deforms, the shock-absorbing element deforms in an inward direction, which also allows the battery pack to be fixed to the surgical instrument compartment after the shock-absorbing element has been impacted.

[0428] Example 146 - The surgical instrument of Examples 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144 or 145, wherein the shock absorbing element deforms when the impact force is greater than a threshold force.

[0429] 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.

[0430] Example 148 - The surgical instrument of Example 147, wherein the battery compartment comprises an electrical contact configured to transmit electrical energy from the battery cell to the engine and a bottom face associated with the electrical contact, where each element of shock absorber comprises an end portion that extends beyond the bottom face of the battery compartment to protect electrical contact.

[0431] 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 additionally comprises a shock absorbing cap positioned at the ends upper parts of the shock absorbing elements.

[0432] Example 150 - A battery pack for use with a surgical instrument, wherein the battery pack comprises a battery cell, an electrical contact configured to transmit electrical energy supplied by the battery cell to the surgical instrument when the battery pack of batteries is attached 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, wherein the layer shock absorber comprises a lattice structure.

[0433] Example 151 - The battery pack of Example 150, wherein the shock absorbing layer comprises a foam-like material.

[0434] Example 152 - The battery pack of Examples 150 or 151, wherein the lattice structure comprises a plurality of cells, wherein the plurality of cells comprises an inner cell comprising a flat inner wall, wherein the inner wall flat 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.

[0435] 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 crosshair and an inner crosshair, where the outer grid is denser than the inner grid.

[0436] Example 154 - The battery pack of Examples 150, 151, 152 or 153, wherein the shock absorbing layer comprises a plurality of damping elements.

[0437] Example 155 - A battery pack for use with a surgical instrument, wherein the battery pack comprises a battery cell configured to provide power to the surgical instrument and a compartment comprising a heat-reflecting wrapper, a layer of heat sink, and a compressible layer positioned between the heat sink layer and the heat-reflecting wrap, wherein the compressible layer is configured to flex in response to expansion of the battery cell.

[0438] Example 156 - The battery pack of Example 155, wherein the compressible layer is further configured to dissipate the impact energy absorbed by the heat-reflecting wrap.

[0439] Example 157 - The battery pack of Examples 155 or 156, wherein the compressible layer comprises a lattice structure.

[0440] Example 158 - The battery pack of Example 157, wherein the lattice structure is a closed lattice structure defined by the heat-reflecting shell and heat sink layer.

[0441] Example 159 - The battery pack of Examples 155, 156, 157 or 158, wherein the heat-reflecting casing comprises a first coefficient of thermal expansion, wherein the heat sink layer comprises a second coefficient of thermal expansion , and wherein the first coefficient of thermal expansion is less than the second coefficient of thermal expansion.

[0442] The complete descriptions of the following documents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: • 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 ELECTRO-MECHANICAL 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 granted on March 12, 2013; • US Patent Application Serial No. 11/343,803, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES; now U.S. Patent No. 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; • Patent Application Serial No. U.S. 12/031,873, titled 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, entitled POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM, now US Patent No. 8,608,045; • Patent Application Serial No. U.S. 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; • Patent Application Serial No. U.S. 12/893,461, titled STAPLE CARTRIDGE, filed September 29, 2012, now U.S. No. 8,733,613; • Patent Application Serial No. U.S. 13/036,647, titled 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; • Patent Application Serial No. U.S. 13/524,049, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE, filed on June 15, 2012; now publication of 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.

[0443] While 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 for certain components are disclosed, other materials may be used. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, a single component may be replaced by multiple components and multiple components may be replaced by a single component to perform one or more specified functions. The above-mentioned description and the following embodiments are intended to encompass all such modifications and variations.

[0444] Devices disclosed herein may be designed to be discarded after a single use, or may be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device may be refurbished for reuse after at least one use. Overhaul 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 specific parts or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed, in any combination. Upon cleaning and/or replacement of 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 refurbishing 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 this application.

[0445] Preferably, the invention described herein will be processed prior to 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 and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. 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 on 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 facility.

[0446] While this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses or adaptations of the invention using its general principles.

[0447] Any patent, publication or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, which is deemed to be incorporated by reference to the present invention, is incorporated into the present invention only to the extent that the materials incorporated do not conflict. with definitions, statements, or other existing disclosure materials set forth in this disclosure. Accordingly, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly presented herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated into the present invention by reference. Any material, or portions thereof, which is incorporated herein by reference, but which conflicts with the definitions, statements, or other existing disclosure material presented herein, is incorporated herein only to the extent that there is no conflict between the material embedded and existing developing material.

Claims (18)

1. Surgical instrument (5300), characterized in that it comprises: a compartment (5312); a motor (5314, 5315); and a battery pack (5000) attachable to the housing (5312) of the surgical instrument (5300), the battery pack (5000) comprising: a battery cell (5031) configured to supply electrical power to the motor (5314, 5315); and a battery compartment (5010) comprising: a support compartment configured to support the battery cell (5031); and a shock absorbing element (5020) configured to absorb shock produced by an impact force, wherein the shock absorbing element (5020) is configured to deform when an impact force is applied to the shock absorbing element ( 5020), wherein the shock absorbing element (5020) is replaceable, and wherein the shock absorbing element (5020) comprises an attachment means (5023) configured to allow the shock absorbing element (5020) to be fixed to the battery pack (5000) in a snap-fit mode. 2. Surgical instrument (5300), according to claim 1, characterized in that the fastening means (5023) comprises an adhesive. 3. Surgical instrument (5300), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the battery compartment (5010) further comprises an opening (5013), and wherein the fastening means (5023) comprises a bulge (5023) configured to be received by the opening (5013) in the battery compartment (5010) in a wedge-fitting fashion. 4. Surgical instrument (5300) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that when the shock absorbing element (5020) deforms, the absorbing element deforms in an inward direction that still allows securing the battery pack (5000) to the housing (5312) of the surgical instrument (5300) after the shock absorbing element (5020) is impacted. 5. Surgical instrument (5300) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the shock absorbing element (5020) comprises a lattice structure (5022). 6. Surgical instrument (5300), according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the shock-absorbing element (5020) deforms when the impact force is greater than a limiting force. 7. Surgical instrument (5300) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the battery pack (5000) further comprises a plurality of corners (5014), in which the battery compartment (5010) further comprises a plurality of shock absorbing elements (5020), and wherein the plurality of shock absorbing elements (5020) are positioned at each of the corners (5014). 8. Surgical instrument (5300), according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the battery compartment (5010) comprises: an electrical contact (5011) configured to transmit electrical energy from the battery cell (5031 ) to the motor (5314, 5315); and a lower face associated with the electrical contact (5011), wherein each shock absorbing element (5020) comprises an end portion (5021) extending beyond the lower face (5016) of the battery compartment (5010) to protect the electrical contact (5011). 9. Surgical instrument (5300) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that each of the shock absorbing elements (5020) comprises a lower end (5021) and an upper end, and in which the battery pack (5000) further comprises a shock absorbing cap (5050) positioned at the upper ends of the shock absorbing elements (5020). 10. Battery pack (5000) for use with the surgical instrument (5300) as defined in claim 1, the battery pack (5000) characterized in that it comprises: the battery cell (5031); an electrical contact (5011) configured to transmit electrical energy supplied by the battery cell (5031) to the surgical instrument (5300) when the battery pack (5000) is attached to the surgical instrument (5300); wherein the support compartment is a first compartment configured to support the battery cell (5031); wherein the battery compartment (5010) is a second compartment configured to house the first compartment; and wherein the shock absorbing element (5020) is a shock absorbing layer positioned between the first compartment and the second compartment, wherein the shock absorbing layer comprises a lattice structure (5022), wherein the structure (5022) comprises a plurality of cells, the plurality of cells comprising: an inner cell comprising an inner planar wall, wherein the planar inner wall is oriented parallel to the first compartment; and an outer cell comprising a flat outer wall, wherein the flat outer wall is oriented parallel to the second compartment. 11. Battery pack (5000) according to claim 10, characterized in that the battery pack (5000) further comprises a shock absorbing cover (5050), the shock absorbing cover (5050) comprises : an external reticle; and an inner screen, where the outer screen is denser than the inner screen. 12. Battery pack (5000) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the shock absorbing layer comprises a foam-like material. 13. Battery pack (5000) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the shock absorbing layer comprises a plurality of damping elements. 14. Battery pack (5000), according to any one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the first compartment further comprises: a heat-reflecting wrap; a heat dissipation layer; and a compressible layer positioned between the heat dissipating layer and the heat-reflecting wrapper, wherein the compressible layer is configured to flex in response to expansion of the battery cell (5031). 15. Battery pack (5000), according to claim 14, characterized in that the compressible layer is further configured to dissipate impact energy absorbed by the heat-reflecting envelope. 16. Battery pack (5000), according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the compressible layer comprises a lattice structure (5022). 17. Battery pack (5000) according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the lattice structure (5022) is a closed lattice structure defined by the heat-reflecting envelope and the heat dissipation layer. heat. 18. Battery pack (5000) according to any one of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that the heat-reflecting casing comprises a first coefficient of thermal expansion, wherein the heat dissipation layer comprises a second coefficient of thermal expansion, and wherein the first coefficient of thermal expansion is less than the second coefficient of thermal expansion.

Images