BR112019012292B1 - STAPPING SET - Google Patents

Abstract

In various embodiments, a stapling assembly is disclosed. The stapling assembly comprises, among other things, an anvil configured to deform staples. The anvil comprises a fabric engaging surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the fabric engaging surface, the pair of forming pockets configured to deform the legs of a staple. The forming pockets comprise one of a proximal forming pocket comprising a forming surface, the forming surface comprising an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature and an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature , the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature comprising a ratio of 1.5:1 to 3:1, and the first radius of curvature being between 8 times and 10 times greater than the diameter of the clamp and , two, a distal training pocket.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various arrangements, surgical instruments for stapling and cutting, and staple cartridges for use therewith, which are designed for stapling and cutting tissue.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[002] Several features of the modalities described here, along with their advantages, can be understood according to the following description, taken together with the attached drawings, as follows:

[003] Figure 1 is a side elevation view of a surgical system comprising a grip set and multiple sets of interchangeable surgical tools that can be used therewith;

[004] Figure 2 is a perspective view of one of the interchangeable surgical tool sets of Figure 1 operatively coupled to the handle set of Figure 1;

[005] Figure 3 is an exploded assembly view of portions of the handle assembly and the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 1 and 2;

[006] Figure 4 is a perspective view of another of the sets of interchangeable surgical tools depicted in Figure 1;

[007] Figure 5 is a perspective view in partial cross-section of the interchangeable surgical tool set of Figure 4;

[008] Figure 6 is another perspective view in partial cross-section of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool set Figures 4 and 5;

[009] Figure 7 is an exploded assembly view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 4 to 6;

[0010] Figure 7A is an enlarged top view of a portion of an elastic center column assembly of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 7;

[0011] Figure 8 is another exploded assembly view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 4 to 7;

[0012] Figure 9 is a perspective view in cross section of a portion of the surgical end actuator of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 4 to 8;

[0013] Figure 10 is an exploded assembly view of the surgical end actuator portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly shown in Figure 9;

[0014] Figure 11 is a perspective view, a side elevation view, and a front elevation view of one embodiment of a trigger member that may be employed in the interchangeable surgical tool set of Figure 10;

[0015] Figure 12 is a perspective view of an anvil that may be employed in the interchangeable surgical tool set of Figure 4;

[0016] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the anvil of Figure 12;

[0017] Figure 14 is a bottom view of the anvil of Figures 12 and 13;

[0018] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a portion of a surgical end actuator and a portion of the drive shaft of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 4 with an unused or unused surgical staple cartridge triggered properly seated with an elongated channel from the surgical end actuator;

[0019] Figure 16 is another side elevation view in cross-section of the surgical end actuator and the drive shaft portion of Figure 15 after the surgical staple cartridge has been at least partially fired and a firing member thereof is being fired. retracted to a starting position;

[0020] Figure 17 is another cross-sectional side elevation view of the surgical end actuator and a portion of the drive shaft of Figure 16 after the firing member has been fully retracted back to the starting position;

[0021] Figure 18 is a top cross-sectional view of the surgical end actuator and a portion of the drive shaft shown in Figure 15 with an unused or unfired surgical staple cartridge properly seated with an elongated channel of the end actuator surgical;

[0022] Figure 19 is another top cross-sectional view of the surgical end actuator of Figure 18 with a surgical staple cartridge mounted thereon which has been at least partially fired, and illustrates the firing member retained in a locked position;

[0023] Figure 20 is a partial cross-sectional view of portions of the anvil and the elongated channel of the interchangeable tool assembly of the Figure. 4;

[0024] Figure 21 is an exploded side elevation view of portions of the anvil and elongated channel of Figure 20;

[0025] Figure 22 is a rear perspective view of an anvil mounting portion of an anvil embodiment;

[0026] Figure 23 is a rear perspective view of an anvil mounting portion of another embodiment of anvil;

[0027] Figure 24 is a rear perspective view of an anvil mounting portion of another embodiment of anvil;

[0028] Figure 25 is a perspective view of an anvil embodiment;

[0029] Figure 26 is an exploded perspective view of the anvil of Figure 25;

[0030] Figure 27 is an end view in cross section of the anvil of Figure 25;

[0031] Figure 28 is a perspective view of another type of anvil;

[0032] Figure 29 is an exploded perspective view of the anvil embodiment of Figure 28;

[0033] Figure 30 is a top view of a distal end portion of an anvil body portion of the anvil of Figure 28;

[0034] Figure 31 is a top view of a distal end portion of an anvil body portion of another embodiment of an anvil;

[0035] Figure 32 is an end perspective view in cross section of the anvil of Figure 31;

[0036] Figure 33 is a perspective view of the end in cross section of another form of anvil;

[0037] Figure 34 is a perspective view of a closure member embodiment comprising a distal closure tube segment;

[0038] Figure 35 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the closure member embodiment of Figure 34;

[0039] Figure 36 is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly showing a position of an anvil assembly portion of an anvil in a fully closed position and a trigger member thereof in a position initial;

[0040] Figure 37 is another partial cross-sectional view of the interchangeable surgical tool set of Figure 36 at the beginning of an opening process;

[0041] Figure 38 is another partial cross-sectional view of the interchangeable surgical tool set of Figure 37 with the anvil in the fully open position;

[0042] Figure 39 is a side elevation view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool set of Figure 36;

[0043] Figure 40 is a side elevation view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool set of Figure 37;

[0044] Figure 41 is a side elevation view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool set of Figure 38;

[0045] Figure 42 is a side elevation view in cross section of another type of closing member;

[0046] Figure 43 is an end view in cross section of the closure member of Figure 42;

[0047] Figure 44 is an end view in cross section of another embodiment of closure member;

[0048] Figure 45 is an end view in cross section of another embodiment of closure member;

[0049] Figure 46 is an end view in cross section of another embodiment of closure member;

[0050] Figure 47 is a partial cross-sectional view of portions of a surgical end actuator of an interchangeable tool assembly illustrated in Figure 1;

[0051] Figure 48 is a partial cross-sectional view of the surgical end actuator portions of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 5;

[0052] Figure 49 is another cross-sectional view of the surgical end actuator of Figure 48;

[0053] Figure 50 is a partial perspective view of a portion of an underside of an anvil embodiment;

[0054] Figure 51 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 5 with an anvil of a surgical end actuator thereof in a fully open position;

[0055] Figure 52 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 51 with the anvil of the surgical end actuator thereof in a first closed position;

[0056] Figure 53 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 51 at the beginning of the firing process, where the anvil is in the first closed position and a firing member of the surgical end actuator the same moved distally out of a starting position;

[0057] Figure 54 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 51, in which the anvil is in a second closed position and the trigger member has been advanced distally into a staple cartridge surgical ends of the same surgical end actuator;

[0058] Figure 55 is a graphical comparison of trigger energy versus time for different sets of interchangeable surgical tools;

[0059] Figure 56 is a graphical representation of firing force enhancements and firing load comparisons as a function of the percentage of firing distance that the firing member of the same has traveled for four different sets of interchangeable surgical tools;

[0060] Figure 57 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a staple formation pocket arrangement comprising a proximal formation pocket and a distal formation pocket, each pocket comprising a pair of sidewalls positioned at an angle and a training surface;

[0061] Figure 58 is a plan view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 57;

[0062] Figure 59 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 57, taken along line 59-59 in Figure 58;

[0063] Figure 60 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 57, taken along line 60-60 in Figure 58;

[0064] Figure 61 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 57, taken along line 61-61 in Figure 58;

[0065] Figure 62 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 57, taken along line 62-62 in Figure 58;

[0066] Figure 63 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a staple forming pocket arrangement comprising a proximal forming pocket and a distal forming pocket, each pocket comprising a forming surface having a zone of entrance and an exit zone comprising different radii of curvature;

[0067] Figure 64 is a plan view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 63;

[0068] Figure 65 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 63, taken along line 65-65 in Figure 64;

[0069] Figure 66 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 63, taken along line 66-66 in Figure 64;

[0070] Figure 67 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 63, taken along line 67-67 in Figure 64;

[0071] Figure 68 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 63, taken along line 68-68 in Figure 64;

[0072] Figure 69 is a perspective view in cross section of a staple formation pocket arrangement comprising a proximal formation pocket, a distal formation pocket and a pair of primary side walls extending from a flat anvil surface to the pockets at a first angle, each pocket comprising a pair of pocket side walls extending from the primary side walls to the pocket forming surfaces at a second angle different from the first angle;

[0073] Figure 70 is a plan view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 69;

[0074] Figure 71 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 69, taken along line 71-71 in Figure 70;

[0075] Figure 72 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 69, taken along line 72-72 in Figure 70;

[0076] Figure 73 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 69, taken along line 73-73 in Figure 70;

[0077] Figure 74 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 69, taken along line 74-74 in Figure 70;

[0078] Figure 75 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a staple formation pocket arrangement comprising a proximal formation pocket, a distal formation pocket and primary sidewalls, each pocket comprising a pair of sidewalls pocket, and wherein each pocket sidewall comprises distinct sidewall portions;

[0079] Figure 76 is a plan view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 75;

[0080] Figure 77 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 75, taken along line 77-77 in Figure 76;

[0081] Figure 78 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 75, taken along line 78-78 in Figure 76;

[0082] Figure 79 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 75, taken along line 79-79 in Figure 76;

[0083] Figure 80 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 75, taken along line 80-80 in Figure 76;

[0084] Figure 81 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a staple formation pocket arrangement comprising a proximal formation pocket, a distal formation pocket and primary sidewalls, each pocket comprising a pair of sidewalls contoured;

[0085] Figure 82 is a plan view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 81;

[0086] Figure 83 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 81, taken along line 83-83 in Figure 82;

[0087] Figure 84 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 81, taken along line 84-84 in Figure 82;

[0088] Figure 85 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 81, taken along line 85-85 in Figure 82;

[0089] Figure 86 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 81, taken along line 86-86 in Figure 82;

[0090] Figure 87 is a plan view of a staple forming pocket arrangement comprising a proximal forming pocket and a distal forming pocket, each pocket comprising a forming surface having a groove defined therein;

[0091] Figure 88 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 87, taken along line 88-88 in Figure 87;

[0092] Figure 89 is an enlarged view of the proximal forming pocket of the staple forming pocket arrangement shown in Figure 88;

[0093] Figure 90 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 87, taken along line 90-90 in Figure 87;

[0094] Figure 91 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 87, taken along line 91-91 in Figure 87;

[0095] Figure 92 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 87, taken along line 92-92 in Figure 87;

[0096] Figure 93 is a plan view of a staple forming pocket arrangement comprising a proximal forming pocket and a distal forming pocket, each pocket comprising a forming surface having a zoned groove defined in the same;

[0097] Figure 94 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 93, taken along line 94-94 in Figure 93;

[0098] Figure 95 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 93, taken along line 95-95 in Figure 93;

[0099] Figure 96 is a cross-sectional view of the staple forming pocket arrangement of Figure 93, taken along line 96-96 in Figure 93;

[00100] Figure 97 is a cross-sectional view of the staple formation pocket arrangement of Figure 93, taken along line 97-97 in Figure 93;

[00101] Figure 98 is a plan view of a staple formation pocket arrangement comprising a proximal formation pocket and a distal formation pocket, each pocket comprising a formation surface having a groove defined therein, and wherein the pockets are bilaterally asymmetrical with respect to a bridge of the pair of pockets;

[00102] Figure 99 is a cross-sectional view of the staple formation pocket arrangement of Figure 98, taken along line 99-99 in Figure 98;

[00103] Figure 100 is a cross-sectional view of the staple formation pocket arrangement of Figure 98, taken along line 100-100 in Figure 98;

[00104] Figure 101 is a cross-sectional view of the staple formation pocket arrangement of Figure 98, taken along line 101-101 in Figure 98;

[00105] Figure 102 is a cross-sectional view of the staple formation pocket arrangement of Figure 98, taken along line 102-102 in Figure 98;

[00106] Figure 103 is a plan view of a staple formation pocket arrangement comprising a proximal formation pocket and a distal formation pocket, each pocket comprising a formation surface having an entry zone and a exit zone comprising different radii of curvature, and each forming surface comprising a groove defined therein;

[00107] Figure 104 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 103, taken along line 104-104 in Figure 103;

[00108] Figure 105 is a cross-sectional view of the staple formation pocket arrangement of Figure 103, taken along line 105-105 in Figure 103;

[00109] Figure 106 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 103, taken along line 106-106 in Figure 103;

[00110] Figure 107 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 103, taken along line 107-107 in Figure 103;

[00111] Figure 108 is a plan view of a staple formation pocket arrangement comprising a proximal formation pocket and a distal formation pocket, each pocket comprising a pair of contoured side walls and a surface groove of formation defined therein, and in which the pockets are bilaterally asymmetrical with respect to a bridge of the pair of pockets;

[00112] Figure 109 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 108, taken along line 109-109 in Figure 108;

[00113] Figure 110 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 108, taken along line 110-110 in Figure 108;

[00114] Figure 111 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 108, taken along line 111-111 in Figure 108;

[00115] Figure 112 is a cross-sectional view of the staple formation pocket arrangement of Figure 108, taken along line 112-112 in Figure 108;

[00116] Figure 113 is a plan view of a staple formation pocket arrangement comprising a proximal formation pocket and a distal formation pocket, each comprising a formation surface groove defined therein, wherein the pockets they are bilaterally symmetrical with respect to a bridge of the pair of pockets and rotationally asymmetrical with respect to a central portion of the bridge;

[00117] Figure 114 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 113, taken along line 114-114 in Figure 113;

[00118] Figure 115 is a cross-sectional view of the staple formation pocket arrangement of Figure 113, taken along line 115-115 in Figure 113;

[00119] Figure 116 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 113, taken along line 116-116 in Figure 113;

[00120] Figure 117 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 113, taken along line 117-117 in Figure 113;

[00121] Figure 118 is a plan view of a staple formation pocket arrangement comprising a proximal formation pocket and a distal formation pocket that is different from the proximal formation pocket, in which the pockets are bilaterally asymmetrical in relation to to a bridge of the pair of pockets, bilaterally symmetrical with respect to a pocket axis of the pair of pockets and rotationally asymmetrical with respect to a central portion of the bridge;

[00122] Figure 119 is a cross-sectional view of the staple formation pocket arrangement of Figure 118, taken along line 119-119 in Figure 118;

[00123] Figure 120 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 118, taken along line 120-120 in Figure 118;

[00124] Figure 121 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 118, taken along line 121-121 in Figure 118;

[00125] Figure 122 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 118, taken along line 122-122 in Figure 118;

[00126] Figure 123 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 118, taken along line 123-123 in Figure 118;

[00127] Figure 124 is a cross-sectional view of the staple formation pocket arrangement of Figure 118, taken along line 124-124 in Figure 118;

[00128] Figure 125 is a cross-sectional view of the staple-forming pocket arrangement of Figure 118, taken along line 125-125 in Figure 118;

[00129] Figure 126 is a partial cross-sectional view of a stapling assembly in a fully stapled, but not parallel, configuration;

[00130] Figure 127 is an elevation view of the clamp formed with the clamp assembly of Figure 126;

[00131] Figure 128 is a partial cross-sectional view of another stapling assembly in a fully stapled, but not parallel, configuration;

[00132] Figure 129 is an elevation view of the clamp formed with the clamp assembly of Figure 128;

[00133] Figure 130 is a bottom view of an anvil comprising a plurality of forming pockets that are identical;

[00134] Figure 131 is a bottom view of an anvil comprising pairs of laterally changing forming pockets;

[00135] Figure 132 is a bottom view of an anvil comprising pairs of longitudinally changing forming pockets;

[00136] Figure 133 is a bottom view of an anvil comprising pairs of forming pockets that change laterally and longitudinally;

[00137] Figure 134 is a table identifying specific features of various training pocket arrangements;

[00138] Figure 135 contains cross-sectional views of different formation pocket arrangements corresponding to various features mentioned in the table of Figure 134;

[00139] Figure 136 is a comparison between formation pocket arrangements, staples formed with the formation pocket arrangements, and the maximum forces required to fire these staples against those formation pocket arrangements;

[00140] Figure 137 is a table identifying additional features of the formation pocket arrangements shown in the table of Figure 134;

[00141] Figure 138 represents a clip in a fully formed configuration and in an overloaded configuration formed with a formation pocket arrangement, according to at least one embodiment;

[00142] Figure 139 represents a clip in a fully formed configuration and in an overloaded configuration formed with a forming pocket arrangement, according to at least one embodiment;

[00143] Figure 140 represents a clamp in a first and a second stage of a forming process formed with a forming pocket arrangement, according to at least one embodiment;

[00144] Figure 141 represents the staple of Figure 140 in a third and fourth stage of the formation process formed with the arrangement of the staple formation pocket of Figure 140;

[00145] Figure 142 represents a clamp in a first and a second stage of a forming process formed with a forming pocket arrangement, according to at least one embodiment;

[00146] Figure 143 represents the staple of Figure 142 in a third and fourth stage of the formation process formed with the arrangement of the staple formation pocket of Figure 142;

[00147] Figure 144 represents a clip in several stages of formation formed with a formation pocket arrangement, according to at least one embodiment;

[00148] Figure 145 represents a staple in several stages of formation formed with a formation pocket arrangement, according to at least one embodiment;

[00149] Figure 146 represents a clip formed with the formation pocket arrangement of Figure 63 in a fully formed configuration, in which the clip came into contact with the forming pockets in an offset state;

[00150] Figure 147 is a comparison between forming pocket arrangements and staples formed with forming pocket arrangements;

[00151] Figure 148 represents a clip formed with the formation pocket arrangement of Figure 75 in a fully formed configuration, in which the clip came into contact with the forming pockets in an offset state;

[00152] Figure 149 represents a clip formed with the formation pocket arrangement of Figure 69 in a fully formed configuration, in which the clip came into contact with the forming pockets in an offset state;

[00153] Figure 150 represents a clip formed with the formation pocket arrangement of Figure 81 in a fully formed configuration, in which the clip came into contact with the forming pockets in an aligned state;

[00154] Figure 151 represents a clip formed with the formation pocket arrangement of Figure 81 in a fully formed configuration, in which the clip came into contact with the forming pockets in an offset state;

[00155] Figure 152 represents a clip formed with the formation pocket arrangement of Figure 108 in a fully formed configuration, in which the clip came into contact with the forming pockets in an aligned state;

[00156] Figure 153 represents a clip formed with the formation pocket arrangement of Figure 108 in a fully formed configuration, in which the clip came into contact with the forming pockets in an offset state;

[00157] Figure 154 represents a clip formed with the formation pocket arrangement of Figure 57 in a fully formed configuration, in which the clip came into contact with the forming pockets in an offset state; It is

[00158] Figure 155 represents a staple formed with the formation pocket arrangement of Figure 87 in a fully formed configuration, in which the staple came into contact with the formation pockets in an offset state.

[00159] Matching reference characters indicate matching parts across the various views. The exemplifications described herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be considered as limiting the scope of the invention in any way.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00160] The applicant for this application holds the following US patent applications, which were filed on December 21, 2016 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00161] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,185, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES THEREOF;

[00162] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,221, entitled LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS;

[00163] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,209, entitled SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND FIRING MEMBERS THEREOF;

[00164] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,198, entitled LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES; It is

[00165] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,240, entitled SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND ADAPTABLE FIRING MEMBERS THEREFOR.

[00166] The applicant for this application owns the following US patent applications, which were filed on December 21, 2016 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00167] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,939 entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES THEREIN;

[00168] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,941, entitled SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SHIFTING BETWEEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES AND ARTICULATION AND FIRING SYSTEMS;

[00169] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,943, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS;

[00170] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,950, entitled SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES;

[00171] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,945, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES THEREIN;

[00172] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,946, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS;

[00173] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,951, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAW OPENING FEATURES FOR INCREASING A JAW OPENING DISTANCE;

[00174] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,953, entitled METHODS OF STAPLING TISSUE;

[00175] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,954, entitled FIRING MEMBERS WITH NON-PARALLEL JAW ENGAGEMENT FEATURES FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS;

[00176] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,955, entitled SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH EXPANDABLE TISSUE STOP ARRANGEMENTS;

[00177] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,948, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS;

[00178] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,956, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES;

[00179] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,958, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION UNLESS AN UNSPENT STAPLE CARTRIDGE IS PRESENT; It is

[00180] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,947, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES THEREIN.

[00181] The applicant for this application holds the following US patent applications, which were filed on December 21, 2016 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00182] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,896, entitled METHOD FOR RESETTING A FUSE OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT;

[00183] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,898, entitled STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENT TO ACCOMMODATE DIFFERENT TYPES OF STAPLES;

[00184] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,899, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING IMPROVED JAW CONTROL;

[00185] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,901, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE AND STAPLE CARTRIDGE CHANNEL COMPRISING WINDOWS DEFINED THEREIN;

[00186] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,902, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CUTTING MEMBER;

[00187] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,904, entitled STAPLE FIRING MEMBER COMPRISING A MISSING CARTRIDGE AND/OR SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT;

[00188] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,905, entitled FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT;

[00189] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,907, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN END EFFECTOR LOCKOUT AND A FIRING ASSEMBLY LOCKOUT;

[00190] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,908, entitled FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FUSE; It is

[00191] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,909, entitled FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MULTIPLE FAILED-STATE FUSE.

[00192] The applicant for this application holds the following US patent applications, which were filed on December 21, 2016 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00193] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,913, entitled ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS;

[00194] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,914, entitled METHOD OF DEFORMING STAPLES FROM TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH THE SAME SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT;

[00195] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,893, entitled BILATERALLY ASYMMETRIC STAPLE FORMING POCKET PAIRS;

[00196] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,929, entitled CLOSURE MEMBERS WITH CAM SURFACE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS;

[00197] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,911, entitled SURGICAL STAPLERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS;

[00198] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,927, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH SMART STAPLE CARTRIDGES;

[00199] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,917, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENT CLAMPING BREADTHS;

[00200] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,900, entitled STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING PRIMARY SIDEWALLS AND POCKET SIDEWALLS;

[00201] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,931, entitled NO CARTRIDGE AND SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS;

[00202] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,915, entitled FIRING MEMBER PIN ANGLE;

[00203] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,897, entitled STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING ZONED FORMING SURFACE GROOVES;

[00204] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,922, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FAILURE RESPONSE MODES;

[00205] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,924, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PRIMARY AND SAFETY PROCESSORS;

[00206] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,912, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAWS THAT ARE PIVOTABLE ABOUT A FIXED AXIS AND INCLUDE SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS;

[00207] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,910, entitled ANVIL HAVING A KNIFE SLOT WIDTH;

[00208] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,903, entitled CLOSURE MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS; It is

[00209] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,906, entitled FIRING MEMBER PIN CONFIGURATIONS.

[00210] The applicant for this application holds the following US patent applications, which were filed on December 21, 2016 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00211] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,188, entitled STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH ASYMMETRICAL STAPLES;

[00212] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,192, entitled STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH TISSUE RETENTION AND GAP SETTING FEATURES;

[00213] US Patent Application Serial No. 15,386,206 entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH DEFORMABLE DRIVER RETENTION FEATURES;

[00214] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,226, entitled DURABILITY FEATURES FOR END EFFECTORS AND FIRING ASSEMBLIES OF SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS;

[00215] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,222, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS HAVING END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE OPENING FEATURES; It is

[00216] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,236 entitled CONNECTION PORTIONS FOR DISPOSABLE LOADING UNITS FOR SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS.

[00217] The applicant for this application holds the following US patent applications, which were filed on December 21, 2016 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00218] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,887, entitled METHOD FOR ATTACHING A SHAFT ASSEMBLY TO A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND, ALTERNATIVELY, TO A SURGICAL ROBOT;

[00219] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,889, entitled SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MANUALLY-OPERABLE RETRACTION SYSTEM FOR USE WITH A MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM;

[00220] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,890, entitled SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING SEPARATELY ACTUATABLE AND RETRACTABLE SYSTEMS;

[00221] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,891, entitled SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A CLUTCH CONFIGURED TO ADAPT THE OUTPUT OF A ROTARY FIRING MEMBER TO TWO DIFFERENT SYSTEMS;

[00222] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,892, entitled SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING A FIRING MEMBER ROTATABLE INTO AN ARTICULATION STATE TO ARTICULATE AN END EFFECTOR OF THE SURGICAL SYSTEM;

[00223] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,894, entitled SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT; It is

[00224] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,895, entitled SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING FIRST AND SECOND ARTICULATION LOCKOUTS.

[00225] The applicant for this application holds the following US patent applications, which were filed on December 21, 2016 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00226] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,916, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS;

[00227] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,918, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS;

[00228] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,919, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS;

[00229] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,921, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH MOVABLE CAMMING MEMBER CONFIGURED TO DISENGAGE FIRING MEMBER LOCKOUT FEATURES;

[00230] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,923 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS;

[00231] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,925, entitled JAW ACTUATED LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING ADVANCEMENT OF A FIRING MEMBER IN A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR UNLESS AN UNFIRED CARTRIDGE IS INSTALLED IN THE END EFFECTOR;

[00232] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,926, entitled AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR APPLYING CLOSURE MOTIONS TO JAWS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[00233] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,928 entitled PROTECTIVE COVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR A JOINT INTERFACE BETWEEN A MOVABLE JAW AND ACTUATOR SHAFT OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT;

[00234] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,930, entitled SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH TWO SEPARATE COOPERATING OPENING FEATURES FOR OPENING AND CLOSING END EFFECTOR JAWS;

[00235] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,932, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH ASYMMETRIC SHAFT ARRANGEMENT;

[00236] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,933, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH INDEPENDENT PIVOTABLE LINKAGE DISTAL OF AN ARTICULATION LOCK;

[00237] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,934, entitled ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR IN AN ARTICULATED POSITION IN RESPONSE TO ACTUATION OF A JAW CLOSURE SYSTEM;

[00238] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,935 entitled LATERALLY ACTUATABLE ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT IN AN ARTICULATED CONFIGURATION; It is

[00239] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,936, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATION STROKE AMPLIFICATION FEATURES.

[00240] The applicant for this application holds the following US patent applications that were filed on June 24, 2016 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00241] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,775, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES;

[00242] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,807, entitled STAPLING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES;

[00243] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,834, entitled "STAMPED STAPLES AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES USING THE SAME";

[00244] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,788, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OVERDRIVEN STAPLES; It is

[00245] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,818, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OFFSET LONGITUDINAL STAPLE ROWS.

[00246] The applicant for this application holds the following US patent applications that were filed on June 24, 2016 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00247] - US Industrial Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,218, entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER";

[00248] - US Industrial Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,227, entitled SURGICAL FASTENER;

[00249] - US Industrial Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,259, entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE"; It is

[00250] - US Industrial Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,264, entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE".

[00251] The applicant for this application holds the following patent applications that were filed on April 1, 2016 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00252] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,325, entitled METHOD FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM;

[00253] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,321, entitled MODULAR SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY;

[00254] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,326, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY INCLUDING A RE-ORIENTABLE DISPLAY FIELD;

[00255] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,263, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE ASSEMBLY WITH RECONFIGURABLE GRIP PORTION;

[00256] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,262, entitled ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MANUALLY ACTUATABLE BAILOUT SYSTEM;

[00257] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,277, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING END EFFECTOR WITH ANVIL CONCENTRIC DRIVE MEMBER;

[00258] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,296, entitled INTERCHANGEABLE SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLY WITH A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR THAT IS SELECTIVELY ROTATABLE ABOUT A SHAFT AXIS;

[00259] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,258, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION;

[00260] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,278, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO PROVIDE SELECTIVE CUTTING OF TISSUE;

[00261] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,284, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CONTOURABLE SHAFT;

[00262] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,295, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A TISSUE COMPRESSION LOCKOUT;

[00263] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,300, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN UNCLAMPING LOCKOUT;

[00264] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,196, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT;

[00265] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,203, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW ATTACHMENT LOCKOUT;

[00266] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,210, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT;

[00267] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,324, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHIFTING MECHANISM;

[00268] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,335, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING MULTIPLE LOCKOUTS;

[00269] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,339, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT;

[00270] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,253, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO APPLY ANNULAR ROWS OF STAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT HEIGHTS;

[00271] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,304, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A GROOVED FORMING POCKET;

[00272] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,331, entitled ANVIL MODIFICATION MEMBERS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS;

[00273] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,336, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH ATRAUMATIC FEATURES;

[00274] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,312, entitled CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INCISABLE TISSUE SUPPORT;

[00275] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,309, entitled CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ROTARY FIRING SYSTEM; It is

[00276] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,349, entitled CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING LOAD CONTROL.

[00277] The applicant for this application also owns the US patent applications identified below, which were filed on December 31, 2015, which are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, respectively:

[00278] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,488, entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR BATTERY PACK FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

[00279] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,525, entitled MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS; It is

[00280] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,552, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARABLE MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL CIRCUITS".

[00281] The applicant for this application also owns the US patent applications identified below, which were filed on February 9, 2016, which are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, respectively:

[00282] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,220, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLY TRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR";

[00283] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,228, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE LINK ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS";

[00284] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT";

[00285] US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,206, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH AN END EFFECTOR THAT IS HIGHLY ARTICULATABLE RELATIVE TO AN ELONGATE SHAFT ASSEMBLY";

[00286] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,215, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH NON-SYMMETRICAL ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS";

[00287] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,227, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SINGLE ARTICULATION LINK ARRANGEMENTS";

[00288] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,235, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH TENSIONING ARRANGEMENTS FOR CABLE DRIVEN ARTICULATION SYSTEMS";

[00289] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,230, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-AXIS FIRING BEAM ARRANGEMENTS"; It is

[00290] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS".

[00291] The applicant for this application also holds the US patent applications identified below, which were filed on February 12, 2016, which are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, respectively:

[00292] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,254, entitled MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[00293] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,259, entitled MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[00294] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,275, entitled MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS; It is

[00295] - US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,289, entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS".

[00296] The applicant for this application has the following patent applications that were filed on June 18, 2015 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00297] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,925, entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING ARRANGEMENTS";

[00298] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,941, entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH DUAL CAM ACTUATED JAW CLOSING FEATURES";

[00299] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,914, entitled "MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

[00300] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,900, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH COMPOSITE FIRING BEAM STRUCTURES WITH CENTER FIRING SUPPORT MEMBER FOR ARTICULATION SUPPORT;

[00301] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,885, entitled "DUAL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; It is

[00302] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,876, entitled "PUSH/PULL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS".

[00303] The applicant for this application has the following patent applications that were filed on March 6, 2015 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00304] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,746, entitled POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0256184;

[00305] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,795, entitled MULTIPLE LEVEL THRESHOLDS TO MODIFY OPERATION OF POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/02561185;

[00306] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,832, entitled ADAPTIVE TISSUE COMPRESSION TECHNIQUES TO ADJUST CLOSURE RATES FOR MULTIPLE TISSUE TYPES, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0256154;

[00307] - US Patent Application No. 14/640,935, entitled OVERLAID MULTI SENSOR RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) ELECTRODE SYSTEM TO MEASURE TISSUE COMPRESSION, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0256071;

[00308] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,831, entitled MONITORING SPEED CONTROL AND PRECISION INCREMENTING OF MOTOR FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0256153;

[00309] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,859, entitled TIME DEPENDENT EVALUATION OF SENSOR DATA TO DETERMINE STABILITY, CREEP, AND VISCOELASTIC ELEMENTS OF MEASURES, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0256187;

[00310] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,817, titled INTERACTIVE FEEDBACK SYSTEM FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0256186;

[00311] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,844, entitled CONTROL TECHNIQUES AND SUB-PROCESSOR CONTAINED WITHIN MODULAR SHAFT WITH SELECT CONTROL PROCESSING FROM HANDLE; now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0256155;

[00312] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,837, entitled SMART SENSORS WITH LOCAL SIGNAL PROCESSING, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0256163;

[00313] - US Patent Application Serial No. US 14/640,765, entitled SYSTEM FOR DETECTING THE MIS-INSERTION OF A STAPLE CARTRIDGE INTO A SURGICAL STAPLER, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0256160;

[00314] - US Patent Application No. 14/640,799, entitled SIGNAL AND POWER COMMUNICATION SYSTEM POSITIONED ON A ROTATABLE SHAFT, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0256162; It is

[00315] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,780, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A LOCKABLE BATTERY HOUSING, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0256161.

[00316] The applicant for this application holds the following patent applications that were filed on February 27, 2015 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00317] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,576, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INSPECTION STATION, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0249919;

[00318] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,546, entitled "SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO ASSESS WHETHER A PERFORMANCE PARAMETER OF THE SURGICAL APPARATUS IS WITHIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE BAND, now publication of US Patent Application No. 2016/0249915 ;

[00319] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,560, entitled SURGICAL CHARGING SYSTEM THAT CHARGES AND/OR CONDITIONS ONE OR MORE BATTERIES, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249910;

[00320] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,566, entitled CHARGING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES EMERGENCY RESOLUTIONS FOR CHARGING A BATTERY, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249918;

[00321] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,555, entitled SYSTEM FOR MONITORING WHETHER A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT NEEDS TO BE SERVICED, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0249916;

[00322] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,542, entitled REINFORCED BATTERY FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249908;

[00323] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,548, entitled POWER ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now publication of US Patent Application No. 2016/0249909;

[00324] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,526, titled ADAPTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249945;

[00325] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,541, entitled MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249927; It is

[00326] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,562, entitled SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFE PARAMETER, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0249917.

[00327] The applicant for this application has the following patent applications that were filed on December 18, 2014 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00328] - 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 MEMBER, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0174977;

[00329] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,483, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LOCKABLE SYSTEMS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0174969;

[00330] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,139, entitled DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0174978;

[00331] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,148, entitled LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITH ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTORS, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0174976;

[00332] - 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, now publication of US Patent Application No. 2016/ 0174972;

[00333] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,143, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0174983;

[00334] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,117, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0174975;

[00335] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,154, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND IMPROVED FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0174973;

[00336] - US Patent Application 14/574,493, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FLEXIBLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0174970; It is

[00337] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,500, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKABLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0174971.

[00338] The applicant for this application has the following patent applications that were filed on March 1, 2013 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00339] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,295, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CONDUCTIVE PATHWAYS FOR SIGNAL COMMUNICATION", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0246471;

[00340] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,323, entitled "ROTARY POWERED ARTICULATION JOINTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0246472;

[00341] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,338, entitled "THUMBWHEEL SWITCH ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0249557;

[00342] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,499, entitled ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL DEVICE WITH SIGNAL RELAY ARRANGEMENT, now US Patent No. 9,358,003;

[00343] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,460, entitled "MULTIPLE PROCESSOR MOTOR CONTROL FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0246478;

[00344] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,358, entitled JOYSTICK SWITCH ASSEMBLIES FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now US Patent No. 9,326,767;

[00345] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,481, entitled SENSOR STRAIGHTENED END EFFECTOR DURING REMOVAL THROUGH TROCAR, now US Patent No. 9,468,438;

[00346] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,518, entitled "CONTROL METHODS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH REMOVABLE IMPLEMENT PORTIONS", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0246475;

[00347] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,375, entitled ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE DEGREES OF FREEDOM, now US Patent No. 9,398,911; It is

[00348] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,536, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SOFT STOP, now US Patent No. 9,307,986.

[00349] The applicant for this application also holds the following patent applications that were filed on March 14, 2013 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00350] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,097, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0263542;

[00351] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,193, entitled CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now US Patent No. 9,332,987;

[00352] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,053, entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0263564;

[00353] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0263541;

[00354] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,210, entitled "SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0263538;

[00355] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,148, entitled "MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263554;

[00356] - 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;

[00357] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,117, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED CABLE-BASED SURGICAL END EFFECTORS, now US Patent No. 9,351,726;

[00358] - US Patent Application 13/803,130, entitled DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now US Patent No. 9,351,727; It is

[00359] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,159, entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0277017.

[00360] The applicant for this application also holds the following patent application which was filed on March 7, 2014 and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[00361] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/200,111, entitled "CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0263539.

[00362] The applicant for this application also holds the following patent applications that were filed on March 26, 2014 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00363] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,106, entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now published US Patent Application No. 2015/0272582;

[00364] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,099, entitled "STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT", now published US Patent Application No. 2015/0272581;

[00365] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,094, entitled "VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES/PROCEDURE COUNT", now published US Patent Application No. 2015/0272580;

[00366] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,117, entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND WAKE UP CONTROL", now published US Patent Application No. 2015/0272574;

[00367] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,075, entitled "MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES", now published US Patent Application No. 2015/0272579;

[00368] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,093, entitled "FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now published US Patent Application No. 2015/0272569;

[00369] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,116, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272571;

[00370] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,071, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETY PROCESSOR", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272578;

[00371] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,097, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272570;

[00372] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,126, entitled "INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now published US Patent Application No. 2015/0272572;

[00373] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,133, entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272557;

[00374] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,081, entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SEGMENTED CIRCUIT", now published US Patent Application No. 2015/0277471;

[00375] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,076, entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLE VOLTAGE PROTECTION", now published US Patent Application No. 2015/0280424;

[00376] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,111, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272583; It is

[00377] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,125, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0280384.

[00378] The applicant for this application also has the following patent applications that were filed on September 5, 2014 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00379] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,103, entitled "CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066912;

[00380] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,119, entitled "ADJUNCT WITH INTEGRATED SENSORS TO QUANTIFY TISSUE COMPRESSION", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066914;

[00381] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/478,908, entitled "MONITORING DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION", now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0066910;

[00382] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/478,895, entitled "MULTIPLE SENSORS WITH ONE SENSOR AFFECTING A SECOND SENSOR'S OUTPUT OR INTERPRETATION", now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0066909;

[00383] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,110, entitled POLARITY OF HALL MAGNET TO DETECT MISLOADED CARTRIDGE, now published US Patent Application No. 2016/0066915;

[00384] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,098, entitled "SMART CARTRIDGE WAKE UP OPERATION AND DATA RETENTION", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066911;

[00385] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,115, entitled "MULTIPLE MOTOR CONTROL FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066916; It is

[00386] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,108, entitled "LOCAL DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066913.

[00387] The applicant for this application also has the following patent applications that were filed on April 9, 2014 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00388] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,590, entitled "MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVE SHAFTS", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0305987;

[00389] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,581, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSING DRIVE AND A FIRING DRIVE OPERATED FROM THE SAME ROTATABLE OUTPUT", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0305989;

[00390] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,595, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0305988;

[00391] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,588, entitled "POWERED LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLER", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0309666;

[00392] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,591, entitled TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0305991;

[00393] - 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 published US Patent Application No. 2014/0305994 ;

[00394] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,587, entitled "POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0309665;

[00395] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,586, entitled "DRIVE SYSTEM DECOUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0305990; It is

[00396] - US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,607, entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH STATUS INDICATION ARRANGEMENTS", now published US Patent Application No. 2014/0305992.

[00397] The applicant for this application also has the following patent applications that were filed on April 16, 2013 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[00398] - US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,365, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY A SINGLE MOTOR";

[00399] - US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,376, entitled "LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER";

[00400] - US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,382, entitled "LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP";

[00401] - US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,385, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLE ACTUATION MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL"; It is

[00402] - US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,372, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY A SINGLE MOTOR".

[00403] Numerous specific details are presented to provide a complete understanding of the structure, function, fabrication and general use of the modalities described in the descriptive report and illustrated in the attached drawings. Well-known operations, components and elements have not 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 is to be understood that the specific structural and functional details disclosed in the present invention may be representative and illustrative. Variations and alterations may be made thereto without deviating from the scope of the embodiments.

[00404] The terms "comprises" (and any form of comprises, such as "comprises" and "which comprises"), "has" (and any form of has, such as "has" and "which has"), "includes" (and any form of includes, such as "includes" and "which includes") and "contains" (and any form of contains, such as "contains" and "which contains") are unrestricted linking verbs. As a result, a surgical system, device or apparatus that "comprises", "has", "includes" or "contains" one or more elements has those one or more elements, but is not limited to having only those one or more elements . Similarly, an element of a system, device or surgical apparatus that "comprises", "has", "includes" or "contains" one or more features has those one or more features, but is not limited to having only those one or more features. or more features.

[00405] The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used in the present invention with reference to a physician who manipulates the gripping 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", "up" and "down" may be used in the present invention in connection with the drawings. However, surgical instruments can be used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.

[00406] Several exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, the reader will readily understand that the various methods and devices disclosed in the present invention can be used in a number of surgical procedures and applications, including, for example, in connection with open surgical procedures. As this Detailed Description advances, the reader will further understand that the various instruments disclosed herein may be inserted into a body in any manner, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or perforation formed in tissue, etc. The functional portions or end actuator portions of the instruments may be inserted directly into a patient's body or may be inserted through an access device that has a working channel through which the end actuator and elongated drive shaft of a surgical instrument can be advanced.

[00407] The 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 gripper comprises a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge is insertable into and removable from the first jaw; however, other embodiments are envisaged in which a staple cartridge is not removable, or at least readily replaceable, from the first jaw. The second gripper comprises an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge. The second claw pivots with respect to the first claw around a geometric axis of the lid; however, other embodiments are envisaged in which the first claw is pivotal with respect to the second claw. The surgical stapling system further comprises a pivot joint configured to allow the end actuator to be rotated or pivoted relative to the drive shaft. The end actuator is rotatable about a pivot axis that extends through the pivot joint. Other embodiments are envisaged which do not include a pivot joint.

[00408] The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body. The cartridge body includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a platform extending between the proximal end and the distal end. In use, the staple cartridge is positioned on a first side of the tissue to be stapled and the anvil is positioned on a second side of the tissue. The anvil is moved towards the staple cartridge to compress and secure the tissue against the platform. Thereafter, staples removablely stored in the cartridge body can be implanted into the tissue. The cartridge body includes staple cavities defined therein, wherein staples are removablely stored in the staple cavities. The staple cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows. Three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of a longitudinal slot and three rows of staple pockets are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of staple cavities and staples may be possible.

[00409] The staples are supported by staple drivers in the cartridge body. The actuators are movable between a first position, or unfired position, and a second position, or fired position, for ejecting staples from the staple cavities. The actuators are retained in the cartridge body by a retainer that extends around the bottom of the cartridge body and includes resilient members configured to grip the cartridge body and retain the retainer in the cartridge body. Triggers are movable between their non-triggered positions and their positions triggered by a slider. The slider is movable between a proximal position adjacent to the proximal end and a distal position adjacent to the distal end. The slider comprises a plurality of inclined surfaces configured to slide under the drivers and lift the drivers, and the clamps supported thereon, towards the anvil.

[00410] Further to the above, the slider is moved distally by a trigger member. The trigger member is configured to contact the slider and push the slider 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 trigger member further comprises a first cam that engages the first jaw and a second cam that engages the second claw. As the trigger member is advanced distally, the first cam and second cam can control the distance, or tissue gap, between the staple cartridge platform and the anvil. The trigger member also comprises a knife configured to make an incision in tissue captured between the anvil and the staple cartridge. It is desirable that the knife be positioned at least partially proximal to the inclined surfaces so that the staples are ejected ahead of the knife.

[00411] Figure 1 depicts a motor-driven surgical system 10 that can be used to perform a variety of different surgical procedures. As seen in that Figure, an example of the surgical system 10 includes four sets of interchangeable surgical tools 100, 200, 300 and 1000 that are adapted for interchangeable use with a set of handle 500. Each set of interchangeable surgical tools 100, 200, 300 and 1000 may be designed for use in connection with the performance of one or more specific surgical procedures. In another embodiment of surgical system, interchangeable surgical tool sets can be effectively employed with a tool drive set of a robotically controlled or automated surgical system. For example, the surgical tool assemblies disclosed herein may be used with various robotic systems, instruments, components and methods, such as, but not limited to, those disclosed in US Patent No. 9,072,535 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS, which is incorporated herein by reference, in its entirety.

[00412] Figure 2 illustrates a form of an interchangeable surgical tool set 100 that is operatively coupled to the handle set 500. Figure 3 illustrates the attachment of the interchangeable surgical tool set 100 to the handle set 500. The arrangement and the Attachment methods depicted in Figure 3 may also be employed in connection with attaching any of the interchangeable surgical tool sets 100, 200, 300, and 1000 to a tool-drive portion or tool-drive housing of a robotic system. The grip assembly 500 may comprise a grip housing 502 that includes a pistol grip portion 504 that can be gripped and manipulated by the clinician. As will be briefly discussed below, the handle assembly 500 operatively supports a plurality of drive systems that are configured to generate and apply various control motions to corresponding portions of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100, 200, 300 and/or 1000 that is operationally attached to it.

[00413] Now referring to Figure 3, the handle assembly 500 can also include a structure 506 that operationally supports a plurality of drive systems. For example, structure 506 can operatively support a "first" drive system or closing drive system, generally designated 510, which can be employed to apply closing and opening motions to interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 , 200, 300 and 1000 that is attached or operatively coupled to the handle assembly 500. In at least one form, the closing drive system 510 can include an actuator in the form of a closing trigger 512, pivotally supported by the frame 506. This arrangement enables the closure trigger 512 to be manipulated by a physician, so that when the physician grips the pistol grip portion 504 of the grip assembly 500, the closure trigger 512 can be easily rotated in one direction. initial or "non-actuated" position to an "actuated" position and, more particularly, to a fully compressed or fully actuated position. In various forms, the closing drive system 510 further includes a set of closing links 514 that is pivotally coupled to the closing trigger 512 or otherwise operationally interfaces therewith. As will be discussed in more detail below, in the illustrated example, the locking link assembly 514 includes a transverse attachment pin 516 that facilitates attachment to a corresponding drive system on the surgical tool assembly. In use, to actuate the closure drive system, the clinician presses closure trigger 512 toward pistol grip portion 504. As described in more detail in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,142, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM, currently published patent application 2015/0272575, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, when the physician fully presses the closing trigger 512 to achieve the full closing stroke, the system Closing trigger is configured to lock the 512 closing trigger in the fully engaged or fully depressed position. When the clinician wishes to unlock the closure trigger 512 to allow it to be forced into the non-actuated position, the clinician simply activates a closure release button assembly 518 that allows the closure trigger to return to the non-actuated position. Close release button assembly 518 may also be configured to interface with various sensors that communicate with a microcontroller 520 in grip assembly 500 to track the position of closure trigger 512. Additional details relating to configuration and operation of the assembly of closure release button 518 can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575.

[00414] In at least one form, the handle assembly 500 and the structure 506 can operationally support another drive system called in the present invention a firing drive system 530, which is configured to apply firing movements to corresponding portions of the interchangeable surgical tool set that is attached to it. As described in detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575, the trigger drive system 530 may employ an electric motor (not shown in Figures 1 to 3) that is located in the pistol grip portion 504 of the assembly. handle size 500. In various forms, the motor can be a DC brush drive motor with a maximum speed of approximately 25,000 RPM, for example. In other arrangements, the motor may include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The motor may be powered by a power source 522 which, in one form, may comprise a removable power supply unit. The power supply unit may hold a plurality of Lithium Ion ("LI") batteries or other suitable batteries therein. Several batteries, which can be connected in series, can be used as the power source 522 for the surgical system 10. Furthermore, the power source 522 can be replaceable and/or rechargeable.

[00415] The electric motor is configured to axially drive a longitudinally movable drive member 540 in the distal and proximal directions depending on the polarity of the motor. For example, when the motor is driven in a direction of rotation, the longitudinally movable drive member 540 will be driven axially in the distal "DD" direction. When the electric motor is driven in the opposite direction of rotation, the longitudinally movable drive member 540 will be driven axially in the proximal "PD" direction. Handle assembly 500 may include a switch 513 which may be configured to reverse the polarity applied to the electric motor by power source 522 or to otherwise control the motor. Handle assembly 500 may also include a sensor or sensors (not shown) that is/are configured to sense the position of drive member 540 and/or the direction in which drive member 540 is being moved. The actuation of the motor can be controlled by a trigger trigger 532 (Figure 1) pivotally held in the grip assembly 500. The trigger trigger 532 can be rotated between an unactuated position and an actuated position. Fire trigger 532 may be biased to the non-actuated position by means of a spring or other biasing arrangement so that, when the clinician releases fire trigger 532, it can be rotated or otherwise returned to position. position not actuated by spring or bias arrangement. In at least one form, the firing trigger 532 can be positioned "far" from the closing trigger 512, as discussed above. As discussed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575, the grip assembly 500 can be equipped with a fire trigger safety button (not shown) to prevent inadvertent actuation of the fire trigger 532. of closing 512 is in the non-actuated position, the safety button is contained in the handle assembly 500, where the clinician cannot readily access it and move it between a safety position, which prevents actuation of the firing trigger 532, and a firing position at which the firing trigger 532 can be fired. When the clinician presses the closing trigger 512, the safety button and firing trigger 532 pivot downwards to a position where they can then be manipulated by the clinician.

[00416] In at least one form, the longitudinally movable drive member 540 can have a rack of teeth (not shown) formed therein for engaged engagement with a corresponding drive gear arrangement (not shown) that interfaces with the motor . Additional details regarding the features can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575. At least one form also includes a "rescue" assembly that is configured to enable the clinician to manually retract longitudinally movable actuating member 540 if the motor becomes disabled. The rescue assembly may include a lever or ejection handle assembly which is stored within the handle assembly 500 under a removable door 550. The lever is configured to be manually pivoted into ratcheting engagement with the teeth on actuating member 540 This way, the clinician can manually retract drive member 540 using the rescue grip assembly to engage drive member 5400 in the proximal "PD" direction. US Pat. and other components, arrangements and systems which may also be employed with the various surgical tool sets disclosed in the present invention.

[00417] Turning now to Figure 2, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 includes a surgical tip actuator 110 comprising a first jaw and a second jaw. In one arrangement, the first claw comprises an elongated channel 112 that is configured to operatively hold a cartridge of surgical staples 116 therein. The second gripper comprises an anvil 114 that is pivotally supported relative to the elongated channel 112. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 also includes a lockable pivot joint 120 that can be configured to releasably secure the end actuator 110 in a desired position with respect to an SA drive axis. Details regarding the various constructions and operation of the end actuator 110, pivot joint 120, and pivot latch are set forth in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE", currently published US Patent Application No. 2014/0263541, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As can be further seen in Figures 2 and 3, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 can include a proximal housing or mouthpiece 130 and a closure tube assembly 140 that can be used to close and/or open the anvil 114 of the actuator. end 110. As discussed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575, the closure tube assembly 140 is movably supported on a center column 145 that supports the pivot actuator arrangement 147 to apply pivot motions to the pivot. surgical end actuator 110. The center column 145 is configured to first slide a trigger bar 170 therein and secondly slide a lock tube assembly 140 that extends therein. around the center column 145. In various circumstances, the center column 145 includes a proximal end that is pivotally supported on a chassis 150. See Figure 3. In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end of the center column 145 is attached to a dorsal bearing (not shown) that is configured to be supported within frame 150. This arrangement facilitates pivotal attachment of column 145 to frame 150 so that column 145 can be selectively rotated about a shaft axis drive SA in relation to frame 150.

[00418] Referring mainly to Figure 3, the interchangeable surgical tool set 100 includes a movable closing element 160 that is slidably supported within the chassis 150, so that it can be moved axially with respect to it. As seen in Figure 3, the movable closure element 160 includes a pair of proximally projecting hooks 162 configured to be attached to the attachment pin 516, which is attached to the closure link assembly 514 on the handle assembly. 500. A proximal closure tube segment 146 of the closure tube assembly 140 is coupled to the movable closure member 160 for relative rotation therewith. Thus, when hooks 162 are hooked over pin 516, actuation of closing trigger 512 will result in axial movement of movable closing member 160 and ultimately closing tube assembly 140 in central column 145. closure tube (not shown) can be seated on the closure tube assembly 140 and serves to pull the closure tube 140 in the proximal "PD" direction, which can serve to rotate the closure trigger 512 to the non-actuated position when the assembly drive shaft assembly 100 is operatively coupled to handle assembly 500. In use, closure tube assembly 140 is translated distally (DD direction) to close anvil 114, for example, in response to actuation of closure trigger 512. The closure tube assembly 140 includes a distal closure tube segment 142 that is pivotally attached to a distal end of a proximal closure tube segment 146. The distal closure tube segment 142 is configured to move axially with the proximal closure tube segment 146 relative to the surgical end actuator 110. When the distal end of the distal closure tube segment 142 hits a proximal surface or protrusion 115 on the anvil 114, the anvil 114 is pivoted closed. Further details regarding closing the anvil 114 can be found in the aforementioned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541 and will be discussed in more detail below. As also described in detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541, the anvil 114 is opened by proximally translating the distal closure tube segment 142. The distal closure tube segment 142 has a shaped opening. 143 therein defining a downwardly extending return tab (not shown) that cooperates with an anvil tab 117 formed at the proximal end of the anvil 114 to rotate the anvil 114 back to an open position. In the fully open position, the closure tube assembly 140 is in its most proximal or non-actuated position.

[00419] As indicated above, the interchangeable surgical tool set 100 further includes a firing bar 170 that is supported to perform axial displacement within the central column of the drive shaft 145. The firing bar 170 includes a portion of the shaft that is configured for attachment to a distal cutting portion or cutting bar that is configured for axial displacement through the surgical tip actuator 110. In at least one arrangement, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 includes an assembly coupling assembly (not shown) that can be configured to selectively and releasably couple the pivot driver to the trigger bar 170. Additional details on the features and operation of the coupling assembly can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. ° 2014/0263541. As discussed in US Patent Application publication no. 2014/0263541, when the coupling assembly is in its engaged position, distal movement of trigger bar 170 can move the pivot driver arrangement 147 distally, and correspondingly, proximal movement of trigger bar 170 can move the trigger bar 170. arrangement of pivot driver 147 proximally. When the coupling assembly is in its disengaged position, the movement of the trigger bar 170 is not transmitted to the pivot driver arrangement 147 and, as a result, the trigger rod 170 can move independently of the pivot driver arrangement 147 Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 may also include a slip ring assembly (not shown) that may be configured to conduct electrical power to and/or from end actuator 110 and/or transmit signals to and/or from end actuator 110. Additional details regarding the slip ring assembly can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067 entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, currently Publication US Patent Application No. 2014/0263552, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. US Patent No. 9,345,481 entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM is also incorporated in its entirety by reference to the present invention.

[00420] With reference again to Figure 3, the chassis 150 includes at least one, and preferably, two, tapered fastening portions 152 formed therein, which are adapted to be received within the corresponding fitting slots 507 formed in the inside a distal end of frame 506. Each socket slot 507 may be tapered, or in other words roughly V-shaped, to seatly receive tapered fastening portions 152 therein. As can also be seen in Figure 3, a drive shaft attachment pin 172 is formed at the proximal end of the trigger drive shaft 170. When the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 is coupled to the handle assembly 500, the trigger pin drive shaft attachment 172 is received in a trigger drive shaft attachment cradle 542 formed at the distal end of longitudinally movable drive member 540. Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 also employs a clip system 180 to securely fasten releasably the drive shaft assembly 100 to the frame 506 of the handle assembly 500. In at least one form, for example, the clip system 180 includes a locking member or locking fork 182 that is movably coupled to the chassis 150. Locking yoke 182 includes two proximally projecting locking pins 184 that are configured to releasably engage with corresponding locking detents or grooves 509 in the frame's distal attachment flange 506. In various forms, the locking yoke latch 182 is pulled in the proximal direction by the spring or pull member. The actuation of the locking fork 182 may be effected by a locking knob 186 that is slidably mounted on a locking actuator assembly that is mounted on the chassis 150. The locking knob 186 is biased in a proximal direction relative to to locking fork 182. As will be discussed in more detail below, locking fork 182 can be moved to an unlocked position by pulling locking knob 186 in the distal DD direction, which also causes locking fork 182 to rotate out of retention engagement with the distal attachment flange of frame 506. When the locking yoke 182 is in "retention engagement" with the distal attachment flange of frame 506, the locking pins 184 are seated with retention within the corresponding detents or locking grooves 509 at the distal end of frame 506. Additional details regarding the clip systems can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541.

[00421] The attachment of the interchangeable surgical tool set 100 to the handle set 500 will now be described with reference to Figure 3. To start the coupling process, the physician can position the chassis 150 of the interchangeable surgical tool set 100 above or adjacent to the distal end of frame 506 such that the tapered attachment portions 152 formed in frame 150 are aligned with the mating slots 507 in frame 506. The physician can then move the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 along an axis installation geometry IA that is perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft SA to seat the tapered fastening portions 152 in "operating engagement" with the corresponding mating receiving slots 507 at the distal end of the frame 506. In doing so, the mounting pin attachment of the drive shaft 172 to the intermediate firing drive shaft 170 will also seat in the cradle 542 on the longitudinally movable drive member 540 and the pin portions 516 on the closing link 514 will seat in the corresponding hooks 162 on the movable closing element 160 As used in the present invention, the term "operable engagement" in reference to two components means that the two components are engaged with each other in such a way that, upon application of an actuating movement thereto, the components can perform the action, function and/or intended procedure.

[00422] Again referring to Figure 1, the surgical system 10 illustrated in that Figure includes four sets of interchangeable surgical tools 100, 200, 300 and 1000 that can each be effectively employed with the same set of handle 500 to perform different surgical procedures. Construction of an exemplary form of interchangeable surgical tool set 100 was briefly discussed above and is discussed in more detail in US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541. Various details regarding the Interchangeable Surgical Tool Sets 200 and 300 can be found in the various US patent applications that were filed on the same date as the present document and which are incorporated herein by reference. Various details pertaining to the Interchangeable Surgical Tool Set 1000 will be discussed in more detail below.

[00423] As illustrated in Figure 1, each of the sets of surgical tools 100, 200, 300 and 1000 includes a pair of claws in which at least one of the claws is movable between open positions, in which the tissue can be captured or manipulated between the two jaws, and the closed positions, in which the tissue is firmly held between them. The Movable Jaw or Movable Jaws are moved between the open and closed positions by applying opening and closing motions applied to it(s) by the Grip Assembly or by the Robotic or Automated Surgical System to which the Surgical Tool Assembly is operatively coupled. Additionally, each of the interchangeable surgical tool sets illustrated includes a firing member that is configured to cut tissue and fire staples from a staple cartridge that is held in one of the jaws in response to firing motions applied thereto. by the handle or assembly or by the robotic system. Each surgical tool set can be uniquely designed to perform a specific procedure, for example to cut and clamp a specific type of tissue and specific thickness of tissues within a specific area on the body. The closing, releasing and articulating systems in the grip assembly 500 or the robotic system can be configured to generate axial control movements and/or rotary control movements depending on the type of configuration of the closing, releasing and articulating system employed in the closing assembly. surgical tool. In one arrangement, when a closure control system in the grip assembly or robotic system is fully actuated, one of the closure system control components which may, for example, comprise a closure tube assembly as described above, if moves axially from an unactuated position to its fully actuated position. The axial distance that the closing tube assembly moves between its non-actuated position to its fully actuated position may be referred to here as its "closing stroke length". Similarly, when a triggering system in the grip assembly or robotic system is fully actuated, one of the triggering system control components which may, for example, comprise the longitudinally movable triggering member as described above, moves axially from its non-actuated position to its fully actuated or triggered position. The axial distance that the longitudinally movable actuating member moves between its unactuated position and its fully fired position may be called the "firing stroke length". For surgical tool sets that employ pivotable end actuator arrangements, the grip assembly or robotic system may employ linkage control components that move axially through a "linkage drive stroke length." In many circumstances, the length of the closing stroke, the length of the firing stroke, and the length of the linkage actuating stroke are fixed for a given grip assembly or robotic system. As such, each of the surgical tool sets must be able to accommodate the control movements of the closing, firing, and/or articulating components through each of their entire stroke lengths without placing undue stress on the surgical tool components that could lead to damage or catastrophic failure of the surgical tool set.

[00424] Now referring to Figures 4 to 10, the interchangeable surgical tool set 1000 includes a surgical end actuator 1100 comprising an elongated channel 1102 that is configured to operatively support a staple cartridge 1110 within it. end 1100 may further include an anvil 1130 that is pivotally supported with respect to elongated channel 1102. Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 may further include a pivot joint 1200 and a pivot latch 1210 (Figures 5 and 8-10) , which may be configured to releasably secure end actuator 1100 in a desired pivotal position relative to an axis of the drive shaft. Details regarding the construction and operation of the hinge lock 1210 can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK, currently published US Patent Application No. 2014/0263541, whose description is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Additional details relating to the hinge lock may also be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196, filed February 9, 2016, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT, the full description of which is incorporated herein by way of of reference. As seen in Figure 7, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 may further include a proximal housing or mouthpiece 1300 comprised of the mouthpiece portions 1302, 1304 as well as an actuator wheel portion 1306 that is configured to be coupled to the mouthpiece portions. of mounted nozzle 1302, 1304 by press fittings, pins, screws etc. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 can further include a closure tube assembly 1400 that can be used to close and/or open the anvil 1130 of the end actuator 1100 as will be discussed in further detail below. Referring now primarily to Figures 8 and 9, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 may include a center column assembly 1500 that may be configured to support the pivot latch 1210. In the illustrated arrangement, the center column assembly 1500 comprises a column dorsal or "springy" frame member 1510 which will be described in greater detail below. A distal end portion 1522 of elastic center column member 1510 is attached to a distal frame segment 1560 that operatively supports pivot latch 1210 thereon. As can be seen in Figures 7 and 8, the center post assembly 1500 is configured to, firstly, slidely support a firing member assembly 1600 therein and, secondly, slideably support the tube. closure 1400 that extends around the center column assembly 1500. The center column assembly 1500 may also be configured to slideably support a proximal pivot driver 1700.

[00425] As seen in Figure 10, the distal frame segment 1560 is pivotally coupled to the elongated channel 1102 by an end actuator mounting assembly 1230. In one arrangement, for example, the distal end 1562 of the segment of distal frame 1560 has a pivot pin 1564 formed therein. Pivot pin 1564 is adapted to be pivotally received within a pivot hole 1234 formed in pivot base portion 1232 of end actuator mounting assembly 1230. End actuator mounting assembly 1230 is secured to the proximal end 1103 of the elongated channel 1102 by means of a spring pin 1105 or other suitable member. Pivot pin 1564 defines a pivot axis B-B that is transverse to the axis of drive shaft SA. See Figure 4. This arrangement facilitates pivotal displacement (i.e., pivoting) of end actuator 1100 about pivot axis B-B relative to center column assembly 1500.

[00426] Still referring to Figure 10, in the illustrated embodiment, the articulation driver 1700 has a distal end 1702 that is configured to operatively engage with the articulation lock 1210. The articulation lock 1210 includes a articulation structure 1212 that is adapted to operatively engage a drive pin 1238 with the pivot base portion 1232 of the end actuator mounting assembly 1230. In addition, a transverse link 1237 may be attached to the drive pin 1238 and the linkage structure 1212 to aid articulation of the end actuator 1100. As indicated above, additional details relating to the operation of the pivot latch 1210 and the pivot structure 1212 can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086, now published Patent Application US No. 2014/0263541. Further details regarding the end actuator and cross link assembly assembly can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245, filed February 9, 2016, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION, the description of which is incorporated herein by reference in the present invention. In various instances, elastic center column member 1510 includes a proximal end 1514 that is pivotally supported on a chassis 1800. In one arrangement, for example, proximal end 1514 of elastic center column member 1510 has a thread 1516 formed same for threaded attachment to a center column bearing (not shown) that is configured to be supported within chassis 1800. This arrangement facilitates pivotal attachment of elastic center column portion 1510 to chassis 1800 so that the column assembly center 1500 can be selectively rotated about the axis of the SA drive shaft with respect to frame 1800.

[00427] Referring mainly to Figure 7, the interchangeable surgical tool set 1000 includes a movable closing element 1420 that is slidably supported within the chassis 1800, so that it can be moved axially with respect to it. In one form, the movable closure member 1420 includes a pair of proximally projecting hooks 1421 configured to be attached to the attachment pin 516, which is attached to the closure link assembly 514 on the handle assembly 500, as discussed. above. A proximal end 1412 of a proximal closure tube segment 1410 is coupled to the movable closure member 1420 for relative rotation therewith. For example, a U-shaped connector 1424 is inserted into an annular slot 1414 in the proximal end 1412 of the proximal closure tube segment 1410 and is retained within vertical slots 1422 in the movable closure member 1420. See Figure 7. This arrangement serves to secure the proximal closure tube segment 1410 to the movable closure element 1420 for axial displacement therewith while allowing the closure tube assembly 1400 to rotate relative to the movable closure carriage element 1420 around the geometry axis of the SA drive shaft. A closure spring (not shown) is seated over the proximal end 1412 of the proximal closure tube segment 1410 and serves to pull the closure tube assembly 1400 in the proximal PD direction, which may serve to rotate the closure trigger 512 about the handle assembly 500 (Figure 3) to the non-actuated position when the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 is operatively coupled to the handle assembly 500.

[00428] As noted above, the illustrated interchangeable surgical tool set 1000 includes an articulating joint 1200. Other interchangeable surgical tool sets, however, may not be capable of articulation. As seen in Figure 10, the upper and lower protuberances 1415, 1416 project distally from a distal end of the proximal closure tube segment 1410 to be movably coupled to an end actuator closure sleeve or segment. of the distal closure tube 1430 of the closure tube assembly 1400. As seen in Figure 10, the distal closure tube segment 1430 includes upper and lower protuberances 1434, 1436 that project proximally from a proximal end of the same. An upper double pivot link 1220 includes proximal and distal pins that engage corresponding holes in the upper protuberances 1415, 1434 of the proximal closure tube segment 1410 and the distal closure tube segment 1430, respectively. Similarly, an upper double pivot link 1222 includes proximal and distal pins that engage corresponding holes in the upper protuberances 1416 and 1436 of the proximal closure tube segment 1410 and the distal closure tube segment 1430, respectively. As will be discussed in more detail below, distal and proximal axial translation of the closure tube assembly 1400 will result in the opening and closing of the anvil 1130 with respect to the elongated channel 1102.

[00429] As mentioned above, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 further includes a trigger member assembly 1600 that is supported to perform axial displacement within the dorsal column assembly 1500. In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger member assembly 1600 includes an intermediate trigger shaft portion 1602 which is configured to connect to a distal cutting portion or cutter bar 1610. The trigger member assembly 1600 may also be referred to in the present invention as a "second shaft". drive shaft" and/or a "second drive shaft assembly". As seen in Figures 7-10, the mid-firing drive shaft portion 1602 may include a longitudinal slot 1604 at its distal end, which may be configured to receive a tab (not shown) at the proximal end of the cutterbar. 1610. The longitudinal slot 1604 and the proximal end of the cutterbar 1610 may be sized and configured to allow relative movement therebetween and may comprise a sliding joint 1612. The sliding joint 1612 may allow the drive shaft portion to intermediate trigger 1602 of the trigger member assembly 1600 is moved to pivot the end actuator 1100 without moving, or at least substantially moving, the cutter bar 1610. Once the end actuator 1100 has been properly oriented, the portion of the intermediate firing drive shaft 1602 can be advanced distally until a proximal sidewall of the longitudinal slot 1604 contacts the tab on the cutterbar 1610 in order to advance the cutterbar 1610 and fire a staple cartridge 1110 positioned in the inside the elongated channel 1102. As can be further seen in Figures 8 and 9, the elastic center column member 1520 has an elongated opening or window 1525 in its interior to facilitate assembly and insertion of the intermediate portion of the firing drive shaft 1602 on the elastic center column member 1520. When the intermediate portion of the firing drive shaft 1602 has been inserted therein, an upper frame segment 1527 can be engaged with the elastic center column member 1520 to enclose the intermediate portion within it. of the firing member shaft 1602 and the cutter bar 1610. A more detailed discussion of the operation of the firing member assembly 1600 can be seen in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 13/803,086, now U.S. Patent Application No. serial number 2014/0263541.

[00430] In addition to the foregoing, the interchangeable tool assembly 1000 may include a coupling assembly 1620, which may be configured to selectively and releasably couple the proximal pivot driver 1800 to the trigger member assembly 1600. In one form , the coupling assembly 1620 comprises a ring or locking sleeve 1622 positioned around the trigger member assembly 1600, where the locking sleeve 1622 is pivotable between an engaged position, where the locking sleeve 1622 engages the driver linkage 1700 to the triggering member assembly 1600, and a disengaged position in which the linkage driver 1700 is not operably coupled to the triggering member assembly 1600. When the locking sleeve 1622 is in its engaged position, the Distal movement of trigger member assembly 1600 can move pivot driver 1700 distally, and correspondingly proximal movement of trigger member assembly 1600 can move pivot driver 1700 proximally. When locking sleeve 1622 is in its disengaged position, movement of trigger member assembly 1600 is not transmitted to link driver 1700 and, as a result, trigger member assembly 1600 can move independently of link driver 1700. In various circumstances, the proximal pivot driver 1700 can be held in position by the pivot lock 1210 when the pivot driver 1700 is not being moved in the proximal or distal directions by the trigger member assembly 1600.

[00431] Referring primarily to Figure 7, the locking sleeve 1622 may comprise a cylindrical, or at least substantially cylindrical, body including a longitudinal opening 1624 defined therein, configured to receive the firing member assembly 1600. The locking sleeve 1622 may comprise diametrically opposite inwardly facing locking projections 1626, 1628 and an outwardly facing locking member 1629. The locking projections 1626, 1628 may be configured to be selectively engaged with the firing drive shaft intermediate portion 1602 of the firing member assembly 1600. More particularly, when the locking sleeve 1622 is in its engaged position, the locking projections 1622 locking pins 1626, 1628 are positioned within a drive slot 1605 defined in the intermediate portion of the trigger drive shaft 1602 such that a distal driving force and/or a proximal pulling force can be transmitted from the member assembly trigger 1600 to locking sleeve 1622. When locking sleeve 1622 is in its engaged position, second locking member 1629 is received within a drive notch 1704 defined in pivot driver 1700 so that the force of distal thrust and/or proximal pulling force applied to locking sleeve 1622 can be transmitted to pivot driver 1700. In effect, trigger member assembly 1600, locking sleeve 1622, and pivot driver 1700 will move together when locking sleeve 1622 is in its engaged position. On the other hand, when the locking sleeve 1622 is in its disengaged position, the locking protrusions 1626, 1628 may not be positioned within the driving notch 1605 of the firing drive shaft intermediate portion 1602 of the firing member assembly 1600 and, as a result, a distal thrust force and/or a proximal pull force may not be transmitted from the trigger member assembly 1600 to the locking sleeve 1622. Correspondingly, the distal thrust force and/or the pull force Proximal pull may not be transmitted to pivot driver 1700. In these circumstances, trigger member assembly 1600 may be slid proximally and/or distally relative to locking sleeve 1622 and proximal pivot driver 1700. Coupling assembly 1620 further includes a keying drum 1630 that interfaces with the locking sleeve 1622. More details regarding the operation of the keying drum and the locking sleeve 1622 can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086, currently published of US Patent Application Serial No. 2014/0263541, and Serial No. 15/019,196. The keying drum 1630 may further comprise at least partially circumferential openings 1632, 1634 defined therein, which may receive circumferential crimps 1305 extending from the nozzle halves 1302, 1304 and permit relative rotation, but not translation, between the keying drum 1630 and the proximal nozzle 1300. See Figure 6. Rotation of the nozzle 1300 to a point where the collets reach the end of their respective slots 1632, 1634 in the keying drum 1630 will result in rotation of the keying drum 1630 around the SA-SA axis of the drive shaft. Rotation of keying drum 1630 will ultimately result in movement of locking sleeve 1622 between its engaged and disengaged positions. In alternative embodiments, the mouthpiece 1300 can be employed to operationally engage and disengage the linkage drive system with the firing drive system. As noted above, clutch assembly 1620 can operate in the various ways described in more detail in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086, currently US Patent Application publication no. 2014/0263541, and US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196, which are incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties.

[00432] In the illustrated arrangement, the keying barrel 1630 includes an L-shaped slot 1636 that extends into a distal opening 1637 in the keying barrel 1630. The distal opening 1637 receives a transverse pin 1639 of an offset plate 1638. In one example, offset plate 1638 is received within a longitudinal slot (not shown) that is provided in locking sleeve 1622 to facilitate axial movement of locking sleeve 1622 when engaged with pivot driver 1700. More Details pertaining to the operation of shifter plate and switching drum arrangements can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/868,718, filed September 28, 2015, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH SHAFT RELEASE, POWERED FIRING AND POWERED ARTICULATION , the description of which is hereby incorporated by reference in the present invention.

[00433] Also as illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the interchangeable tool set 1000 can comprise a slip ring set 1640 that can be configured to conduct electrical power to the end actuator 1100 and/or from it and/or transmit signals to end actuator 1100 and/or from there back to a microprocessor in the grip assembly or robotic system controller, for example. More details on the slip ring assembly 1640 and associated connectors can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086, currently Publication US Patent Application No. 2014/0263541 and US Patent Application No. of Serial 15/019,196, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their respective entireties as well as in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067 entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, currently published US Patent Application serial number 2014/0263552, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. As also described in more detail in the aforementioned patent applications which are incorporated herein by reference, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 may also comprise at least one sensor that is configured to detect the position of the keying drum 1630.

[00434] With reference again to Figure 7, the chassis 1800 includes at least one, and preferably, two, tapered fastening portions 1802 formed therein, which are adapted to be received within the corresponding fitting slots 507 formed in the inside the distal end portion of frame 506 of handle assembly 500, as discussed above. As can also be seen in Figure 7, a drive shaft attachment pin 1605 is formed at the proximal end of the intermediate firing drive shaft 1602. As will be discussed in more detail below, when the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 is coupled to the handle assembly 500, the drive shaft attachment pin 1605 is received in a trigger drive shaft attachment cradle 542 that is formed at the distal end of the longitudinal drive member 540. See Figure 3.

[00435] Various sets of interchangeable surgical tools employ a locking system 1810 to removablely couple the set of interchangeable surgical tools 1000 to the structure 506 of the grip set 500. As can be seen in Figure 7, for example, in at least In one way, locking system 1810 includes a locking member or locking fork 1812 that is movably coupled to chassis 1800. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, locking fork 1812 is U-shaped with two spaced apart legs that extend down 1814. The legs 1814 each have a pivot pin (not shown) formed therein, which are adapted to be received in corresponding holes 1816 formed in the chassis 1800. locking yoke 1812 to chassis 1800. Locking yoke 1812 may include two proximally projecting locking pins 1818 that are configured to releasably engage with corresponding locking detents or grooves 509 at the distal end of frame 506 of grip assembly 500 See Figure 3. In various forms, the locking fork 1812 is pulled in the proximal direction by a spring or pulling member 1819. on a lock actuator assembly 1822 that mounts to chassis 1800. Lock knob 1820 can be biased in a proximal direction with respect to locking fork 1812. Locking fork 1812 can be moved to an unlocked position by pulling the lock locking knob 1820 in the distal direction, which also causes locking fork 1812 to rotate out of retention engagement with the distal end of frame 506. When locking fork 1812 is in "retention engagement" with the end Distal to frame 506, locking pins 1818 are retentively seated within corresponding locking detents or grooves 509 at the distal end of frame 506.

[00436] In the illustrated arrangement, the locking fork 1812 includes at least one and preferably two locking hooks 1824 that are adapted to come into contact with portions of corresponding locking pins 1426 that are formed in the movable closing element 1420 When the movable locking element 1420 is in a non-actuated position, the locking fork 1812 can be rotated in a distal direction to unlock the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 from the handle assembly 500. lock pin 1824 do not contact the lock pin portions 1426 on the locking carriage 1420. However, when the movable locking member 1420 is moved into an actuated position, the locking yoke 1812 is prevented from being rotated into a position. unlocked position. In other words, if the clinician attempts to rotate the locking fork 1812 to an unlocked position, or, for example, if the locking fork 1812 is inadvertently protruded or brought into contact in a way that might otherwise cause it to rotate distally, locking hooks 1824 on locking fork 1812 make contact with locking pins 1426 on locking carriage 1420 and prevent movement of locking fork 1812 to an unlocked position.

[00437] Still referring to Figure 10, the cutterbar 1610 may comprise a laminated bundle structure that includes at least two bundle layers. Such bundle layers may comprise, for example, stainless steel bands which are interconnected, for example by welding or clamping together at their proximal ends and/or at other locations along their length. In alternative embodiments, the distal ends of the bands are not connected to allow the laminates or bands to spread relative to each other when the end actuator is pivoted. Such an arrangement allows cutter bar 1610 to be flexible enough to accommodate the end actuator linkage. Various laminated cutterbar arrangements are disclosed in US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245. As can also be seen in Figure 10, an intermediate support member 1614 is employed to provide lateral support to the cutterbar 1610 as it flexes to accommodate the surgical end actuator pivot 1100. Alternative cutterbar support arrangements are disclosed in US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245. As can also be seen in Figure 10, a trigger member or cutting member 1620 is attached to the distal end of the cutter bar 1610.

[00438] Figure 11 illustrates a form of a trigger member 1660 that can be employed with the interchangeable surgical tool set 1000. In an exemplary form, the trigger member 1660 comprises a body portion 1662 that includes a connecting element A proximally extending connector 1663 that is configured to be received into a matched connector aperture 1614 at the distal end of cutter bar 1610. See Figure 10. Connector 1663 may be retained within connector aperture 1614 by friction and/or welding or suitable adhesive, etc. Body portion 1662 projects through an elongated slot 1104 in elongated channel 1102 and terminates in a foot member 1664 that extends laterally on each side of body portion 1662. As firing member 1660 is driven distally through of the surgical staple cartridge 1110, the foot element 1664 travels within a passage 1105 in the elongated channel 1102 that is located under the surgical staple cartridge 1110. As can be seen in Figure 11, one shape of the firing member 1660 can be also include center tabs, pins, or laterally projecting retainer features 1680. As firing member 1660 is driven distally through surgical staple cartridge 1110, central retaining features 1680 move over inner surface 1106 of elongated channel 1102. Body portion 1662 of firing member 1660 further includes a cutting edge or tissue cutting feature 1666 that is disposed between a distally projecting hook feature 1665 and a distally projecting top nose portion 1670. As can be further seen in Figure 11, the trigger member 1660 may further include two top tabs, pins or anvil engagement features 1665 that extend laterally. As trigger member 1660 is actuated distally, a top portion of body 1662 extends through a centrally disposed anvil slot 1138 and upper anvil engaging features 1672 slide over corresponding projections 1136 formed on each side of the anvil slot. 1134. See Figures 13 and 14.

[00439] Again referring to Figure 10, the trigger member 1660 is configured to interface operationally with a slider assembly 1120 that is operatively supported within the body 1111 of the surgical staple cartridge 1110. The slider assembly 1120 is displaceable from sliding manner within the surgical staple cartridge body 1111 from a proximal starting position adjacent the proximal end 1112 of the cartridge body 1111 to an ending position adjacent the distal end 1113 of the cartridge body 1111. The cartridge body 1111 operatively supports in within it are a plurality of staple drivers (not shown) that are aligned in rows on each side of a centrally disposed slit 1114. The centrally disposed slit 1114 allows the firing member 1660 to pass therethrough and cut the tissue that is clamped. between the anvil 1130 and the staple cartridge 1110. The drivers are associated with corresponding pockets 1116 which open through the upper platform surface 1115 of the cartridge body. Each of the staple drivers holds one or more surgical clips or fasteners (not shown) therein. Slider assembly 1120 includes a plurality of inclined or wedge-shaped cams 1122 with each cam 1122 corresponding to a particular row of fasteners or drivers located on one side of slot 1114. In the illustrated example, a cam 1122 is aligned with a row of "dual" drivers each holding two clasps or fasteners therein and another cam 1122 is aligned with another row of "single" drivers on the same side of slot 1114 each operatively holding a single surgical clamp or fastener in it. Thus, in the illustrated example, when the surgical staple cartridge 1110 is "fired", there will be three rows of staples on each lateral side of the tissue cut line. However, other cartridge and trigger configurations could also be employed to fire other clip/fastener arrangements. Slider assembly 1120 has a central body portion 1124 that is configured to be engaged by hook portion 1665 of firing member 1660. In this way, when firing member 1660 is fired or actuated distally, firing member 1660 will also drives slider assembly 1120 distally. As trigger member 1660 moves distally through cartridge 1110, tissue cutting feature 1666 cuts tissue that is trapped between anvil assembly 1130 and cartridge 1110 and slider assembly 1120 actuates the actuators upward on the cartridge. which actuate the corresponding clamps or fasteners in forming contact with the 1130 anvil assembly.

[00440] In embodiments in which the firing member includes a tissue cutting surface, it may be desirable for the elongated drive shaft assembly to be configured in such a way as to prevent accidental advancement of the firing member, unless a firing cartridge is unused staple is properly held in the elongated channel 1102 of the surgical tip actuator 1100. If, for example, no staple cartridge is present and the trigger member is advanced distally through the end actuator, the tissue would be cut, but not stapled. Similarly, if a used staple cartridge (i.e., a staple cartridge in which at least some staples have already been fired) is present in the end actuator and the firing member is advanced, the tissue would be cut, but it may not be. be completely stapled, if stapled. It will be recognized that such occurrences could lead to undesirable catastrophic outcomes during the surgical procedure. US Patent No. 6,988,649 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT, US Patent No. 7,044,352 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR PREVENTION OF FIRING, US Patent No. 7,380,695 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR PREVENTION OF FIRING and US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,933 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION WHEN A CARTRIDGE IS SPENT OR MISSING each disclose various provisions trigger member lock. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00441] An "unfired", "unspent", "fresh", or "new" 1110 cartridge means that the 1110 cartridge has all of its fasteners in their "ready to fire" positions. When in this position, slider assembly 1120 is situated in its home position. The new cartridge 1110 is seated within the elongated channel 1102 and can be retained there by press fit features on the cartridge body which are configured to retainingly engage corresponding portions of the elongated channel 1102. Figures 15 and 18 illustrate a portion of the surgical end actuator 1100 with a new or unfired surgical staple cartridge 1110 seated therein. As can be seen in those Figures, the slider assembly 1120 is in the home position. To prevent the firing system from activating, and more precisely, to prevent firing member 1660 from being driven distally through end actuator 1110 unless an unfired or new surgical staple cartridge has been properly seated within the trigger elongated channel 1102, the illustrated interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 employs a trigger member locking system generally designated 1650.

[00442] Now referring to Figures 10 and 15 to 19, in one form, the firing member locking system 1650 includes a movable locking member 1652 that is configured to retainingly engage the firing member 1660 when a firing cartridge is surgical clips 1110 is not properly seated within the elongated channel 1102. The locking member 1652 comprises at least one laterally movable locking portion 1654 that is configured to retainably engage a corresponding portion of the firing member when the trigger assembly is engaged. slider 1120 is not present inside the cartridge 1110 in its initial position. In the illustrated arrangement, locking member 1652 employs two laterally movable locking portions 1654 with each locking portion 1654 engaging a laterally extending portion of firing member 1660.

[00443] In the illustrated embodiment, the locking member 1652 comprises a generally U-shaped spring member in which each leg laterally movable locking portion 1654 extends from a central spring portion 1653 and is configured to move in lateral directions represented by "L" in Figures 18 and 19. It will be understood that the term "lateral directions" refers to those directions which are transverse to the axis of the drive shaft SA. Spring or locking member 1652 can be fabricated from high strength spring steel or similar material. Center spring portion 1653 may be seated within a slot 1236 in end actuator mounting assembly 1230. See Figure 10. As can be seen in Figures 15 through 17, each of the laterally movable locking portion legs 1654 has a distal end 1656 with a locking window 1658. When the locking element 1652 is in a locked position, the central retainer feature 1680 on each lateral side extends into the corresponding locking window 1658 to prevent the trigger member from being trapped. be advanced axially and distally.

[00444] The operation of the firing member locking system will be explained with reference to Figures 15-19. Figures 15 and 18 illustrate a portion of the surgical tip actuator 1100 with a new unfired cartridge 1110 properly installed therein. As seen in these Figures, the slider assembly 1120 includes a release feature 1126 corresponding to each of the laterally movable locking portions 1654. In the illustrated arrangement, a release feature 1126 is provided on or extends proximally from each of the central wedge cams 1122. In alternative arrangements, the unlocking feature 1126 may comprise a proximally projecting portion of the corresponding wedge cam 1122. As can be seen in Figure 18, when the slider assembly 1120 is in its initial position, the unlocking means 1124 engage and pull the corresponding locking portions 1654 laterally in a direction that is transverse to the axis of the drive shaft SA. When locking portions 1654 are in these unlocked orientations, the center features of retainer 1680 are not in retaining engagement with their corresponding locking window 1658. When in these orientations, firing member 1660 can be distally and axially advanced (fired). However, when a cartridge is not present in the elongated channel 1102 or the slider assembly has been moved out of its initial position (meaning that the cartridge is partially or completely fired), the locking portions 1654 extend laterally into retention engagement with the trigger member 1660. When in this position, as illustrated in Figure 19, trigger member 1660 cannot be moved distally.

[00445] Figures 16 and 17 illustrate the retraction of the firing member 1660 back to the initial position after firing the cartridge 1110 and driving the slider assembly 1120 distally. Figure 16 depicts the initial re-engagement of retention feature 1680 to its corresponding locking window 1658. Figure 17 illustrates the retention feature in its locked position when firing member 1660 has been fully retracted back to its initial position. To aid in lateral displacement of the locking portions 1654 when they are initially brought into contact by the proximally movable retention features 1680, each of the retention features 1680 may be provided with a laterally tapered, proximally facing end portion. . Such a locking system prevents actuation of the firing member 1660 when a new unfired cartridge is not present or when a new unfired cartridge is present but has not been properly seated in the elongated channel 1102. Furthermore, the locking system can prevent the clinician to distally advance the firing member in the event that a spent or partially fired cartridge has inadvertently been properly seated within the elongated channel. A further advantage that can be provided by the locking system 1650 is that, unlike other firing member locking arrangements which require movement of the firing member in and out of alignment with corresponding slots/passages in the staple cartridge , trigger member 1660 remains in alignment with the cartridge passages while in the locked and unlocked position. Locking portions 1654 are designed to move laterally into engagement and out of engagement with corresponding sides of the firing member. Such lateral movement of the locking portions or portion is distinguishable from other locking arrangements which move in vertical directions to engage and disengage portions of the firing member.

[00446] Referring again to Figures 13 and 14, in one form, the anvil 1130 includes an elongated anvil body portion 1132 and a proximal anvil mounting portion 1150. The elongated anvil body portion 1132 includes an outer surface 1134 that defines two downwardly extending fabric stop members 1136 that are adjacent to the proximal anvil mounting portion 1150. The elongated anvil body portion 1132 also includes an underside 1135 that defines an elongated anvil slot 1138. In the illustrated arrangement shown in Figure 14, the anvil slot 1138 is disposed centrally on the bottom side 1135. The bottom side 1135 includes three rows 1140, 1141, 1142 of staple forming pockets 1143, 1144 and 1145 located on each side of the slot of anvil 1138. Adjacent to each side of the anvil slot 1138 are two elongated anvil passages 1146. Each passage 1146 has a proximal ramp portion 1148. See Figure 13. As the firing member 1660 is advanced distally, the engagement features upper anvil ports 1632 initially enter corresponding proximal ramp portions 1148 and within corresponding elongated anvil passages 1146.

[00447] Returning to Figures 12 and 13, the anvil slot 1138, as well as the proximal ramp portion 1148, extend into the anvil assembly portion 1150. In other words, the anvil slot 1138 bifurcates or divides the anvil mounting portion 1150 into two anvil attachment flanges 1151. The anvil attachment flanges 1151 are coupled together at their proximal ends by a connecting bridge 1153. The connecting bridge 1153 serves to provide support for the mounting flanges 1153. anvil attachment 1151 and may serve to make the anvil mounting portion 1150 more rigid than the mounting portions of other anvil arrangements in which the anvil attachment flanges are not connected at their proximal ends. As can also be seen in Figures 12 and 14, the anvil slot 1138 has a wide portion 1139 to accommodate the upper portion and upper anvil engagement features 1632 of the firing member 1660.

[00448] As can be seen in Figures 13 and 20 to 24, each of the anvil attachment flanges 1151 includes a transverse mounting hole 1156 that is configured to receive a pivot pin 1158 (Figures 10 and 20) through it. The anvil mounting portion 1150 is pivotally attached to the proximal end 1103 of the elongated channel 1102 by a pivot pin 1158 that extends through mounting holes 1107 in the proximal end 1103 of the elongated channel 1102 and the mounting hole 1156 in the anvil mounting portion 1150. This arrangement serves to pivotally attach the anvil 1130 to the elongated channel 1102 for selective pivotal displacement about a fixed axis A-A of the anvil that is transverse to the axis of the drive shaft SA. See Figure 5. Anvil mounting portion 1150 also includes a cam surface 1152 extending from a centered parking area of trigger member 1154 to outer surface 1134 of anvil body portion 1132.

[00449] In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil 1130 is moved between an open position and closed positions by axially advancing and retracting the distal closure tube segment 1430. As will be discussed in more detail below, a distal end portion of the Distal closure tube 1430 has an internal cam surface formed thereon which is configured to cam-engage cam surface 1552 or cam surfaces formed on anvil mounting portion 1150. Figure 22 illustrates a cam surface 1430 1152a formed over the anvil mounting portion 1150 so as to establish a single contact path 1155a with the inner cam surface 1444, for example, over the distal closure tube segment 1430. Figure 23 illustrates a cam surface 1152b that is configured relative to the inner cam surface 1444 on the distal closure tube segment to establish two separate and distinct arcuate contact paths 1155b between the cam surface 1152 on the anvil mounting portion 1150 and the inner cam surface 1444 on the distal closure tube segment 1430. In addition to other potential advantages discussed in the present invention, such an arrangement can serve to better distribute the closing forces from the distal closure tube segment 1430 to the anvil 1130. cam 1152c that is configured relative to the inner cam surface 1444 of the distal closure tube segment 1430 to establish three distinct contact zones 1155c and 1155d between the cam surfaces on the anvil mounting portion 1150 and the cam tube segment 1152c. Distal closure 1430. Zones 1155c, 1155d establish greater areas of cam contact between the cam surface or cam surfaces on the distal closure tube segment 1430 and the anvil mounting portion 1150 and may serve to better distribute the closing forces for anvil 1130.

[00450] As the distal closing tube segment 1430 cam engages the anvil assembly portion 1150 of the anvil 1130, the anvil 1130 is rotated around the axis AA of the anvil, which results in pivotal movement of the distal end from the end 1133 of the elongated body portion of the anvil 1132 toward the surgical staple cartridge 1110 and the distal end 1105 of the elongated channel 1102. As the body portion of the anvil 1132 begins to rotate, it contacts the tissue to be cut and stapled that is now positioned between the underside 1135 of the elongated portion of the anvil body 1132 and the platform 1116 of the surgical staple cartridge 1110. When the anvil body portion 1132 is compressed over the tissue, the anvil 1130 can experience considerable amounts of resistive forces. These resistive forces are overcome as the distal closure tube 1430 continues its distal advancement. However, depending on their magnitudes and points of application to the body portion of the anvil 1132, these resistive forces could tend to cause the anvil portions 1130 to flex, which may generally be undesirable. For example, such bending can cause misalignment between firing member 1660 and passages 1148, 1146 within anvil 1130. In cases where bending is excessive, such bending could significantly increase the amount of firing force required to fire the instrument. (ie, driving trigger member 1660 through the fabric from its initial to final position). Such excessive triggering force could result in damage to the end actuator, and/or the triggering member, and/or the cutterbar, and/or the trigger drive system components, etc. Therefore, it may be advantageous for the anvil to be constructed to resist such bending.

[00451] Figures 25 to 27 illustrate an alternative form of anvil that includes features that can improve the rigidity of the anvil body and its resistance to bending forces that can be generated during the closing and/or firing processes. Anvil 1130' may otherwise be identical in construction to anvil 1130 described above except for the differences discussed in the present invention. As can be seen from these Figures, the anvil 1130' has an elongated anvil body 1132' that has an upper body portion 1165 that has an anvil cap 1170 attached thereto. In the embodiment shown in Figures 25 to 27, the anvil cap 1170 is approximately rectangular in shape and has an outer perimeter of the cap 1172. The perimeter 1172 of the anvil cap 1170 is configured to be inserted through the correspondingly shaped opening 1137 formed in the portion of upper body 1165 and received in axially extending internal projecting portions 1139 formed therein. See Figure 27. The internal projections 1139 are configured to support the corresponding long sides 1177 of the anvil cover 1170. In an alternative embodiment, the anvil cover 1170 can be slid over the internal projections 1139 through an opening (not shown) at the distal end 1133 of the anvil body 1132'. In yet another embodiment, no internal protruding portion is provided. The anvil body 1132 and the anvil cap 1170 may be fabricated from a suitable metal that is suitable for welding. A first weld 1178 may extend around the entire perimeter of the cap 1172 of the anvil cap 1170 or it may be located only along the long sides 1177 of the anvil cap 1170 and not its distal end 1173 and/or proximal end 1175 The first weld 1178 may be continuous or it may be discontinuous or intermittent. In those embodiments where the first weld 1178 is discontinuous or intermittent, the weld segments can be evenly distributed along the long sides 1177 of the anvil cap 1170 or the weld segments can be more densely spaced closer to the distal ends of the long sides 1177 or more densely spaced closer to the proximal ends of the long sides 1177. In still other arrangements, the weldment segments may be more densely spaced in the central areas of the long sides 1177 of the anvil cap 1170.

[00452] Figures 28 to 30 illustrate an anvil cap 1170' that is configured to be "mechanically interlocked" to the anvil body 1132' as well as welded to the upper body portion 1165. In this embodiment, a plurality of retention formations 1182 is formed in the wall 1180 of the upper body portion 1165 defining the opening 1137. As used in this context, the term "mechanically interlocked" means that the anvil cap will remain attached to the anvil elongate body regardless of the orientation of the anvil elongate body and without any retention or additional fastening such as welding and/or adhesive, for example. Retention formations 1182 may project inwardly into opening 1137 from wall of opening 1180. Retention formations 1182 may be formed integrally with wall 1180 or otherwise attached thereto. The retaining formations 1182 are designed to frictionally engage a corresponding portion of the anvil cap 1170' and when it is installed in the opening 1137 to frictionally retain the anvil cap 1170' therein. In the illustrated embodiment, retention formations 1182 project into opening 1137 and are configured to be frictionally received within a correspondingly shaped engagement area 1184 formed on the outer perimeter 1172' of anvil cap 1170'. In the illustrated arrangement, the retaining formations 1182 only correspond to the long sides 1177' of the anvil cap 1170' and are not provided on the wall portions 1180 that correspond to the distal end 1173 or the proximal end 1175 of the anvil cap 1170'. In alternative arrangements, retention formations 1182 may also be provided on portions of wall 1180 corresponding to distal end 1173 and proximal end 1175 of anvil cap 1170 as well as its long sides 1177. retainer 1182 may be provided only on the portions of wall 1180 that correspond to one or both of the distal and proximal ends 1173, 1175 of the anvil cap 1170'. In yet other arrangements, retention formations 1182 may be provided only on the portions of wall 1180 that correspond to long sides 1177' and only one of the distal and proximal ends 1173, 1175 of anvil cap 1170'. It will be further understood that the retaining protuberances in all of the aforementioned embodiments may alternatively be formed on the anvil cap with the engagement areas being formed on the elongate body of the anvil.

[00453] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 28 to 30, the retention formations 1182 are equally spaced or equally distributed along wall portions 1180 that correspond to the long sides 1177' of the anvil lid 1170'. In alternative embodiments, the retention formations 1182 can be more densely spaced closer to the distal ends of the long sides 1177, or more densely spaced closer to the proximal ends of their long sides 1177. Stated another way, the spacing between these retention formations retention formations adjacent to the distal end, the proximal end, or both the distal and proximal ends can be less than the spacing of the formations located in the central portion of the anvil cap 1170. In still other arrangements, the retention formations 1182 can be more densely spaced in the central areas of the long sides 1177' of the anvil cap 1170'. Also in alternative embodiments, the correspondingly shaped engagement areas 1184 may not be provided on the outer perimeter 1172' or on portions of the outer perimeter 1172' of the anvil cap 1170'. In other embodiments, the retention formations and correspondingly shaped engagement areas may be provided with different shapes and sizes. In alternative arrangements, the retention formations may be dimensioned relative to the engagement areas so that there is no interference fit therebetween. In such arrangements, the anvil cover can be held in position by welding, adhesive, etc.

[00454] In the illustrated example, a weld 1178' can extend around the entire perimeter 1172' of the anvil cover 1170' or the probe 1178' can be located only along the long sides 1177' of the anvil cover 1170' and not its distal end 1173 and/or proximal end 1175. The weld 1178' can be continuous or discontinuous or intermittent. In those embodiments where the weld 1178' is discontinuous or intermittent, the weld segments may be evenly distributed along the long sides 1177' of the anvil cap 1170' or the weld segments may be more densely spaced closer to the distal ends of the long sides 1177' or more densely spaced closer to the proximal ends of long sides 1177'. In yet other arrangements, the weld segments may be more densely spaced in the central areas of the long sides 1177' of the anvil cap 1170'.

[00455] Figures 31 and 32 illustrate another anvil arrangement 1130'', which has an anvil cover 1170'' removablely attached thereto. In the example shown, the anvil cap 1170'' is approximately rectangular in shape and has an outer cap perimeter 1172''. The lid outer perimeter 1172'' is configured to be inserted through the correspondingly shaped opening 1137'' in the upper body portion 1165 of the anvil body 1132'', and received in axially extending inner protruding portions 1139'' and 1190'' formed there. See Figure 32. Protruding portions 1139'' and 1190'' are configured to support corresponding long sides 1177'' of anvil cap 1170''. In an alternative embodiment, the anvil cap 1170'' can be slid over the internal protrusions 1139'' and 1190'' through an opening (not shown) in the distal end 1133'' of the anvil body 1132'. The anvil body 1132'' and the anvil cap 1170'' may be fabricated from a metallic material that is conducive to welding. A first weld 1178'' may extend around the entire perimeter 1172'' of the anvil cover 1170'' or it may be located only along the long sides 1177'' of the anvil cover 1170'' and not its end distal 1173'' and/or proximal end (not shown). The 1178’’ weld can be continuous or discontinuous or intermittent. It will be appreciated that the continuous solder embodiment has greater solder surface area due to the irregularly shaped perimeter of the anvil cap 1170'' compared to the straight perimeter sided embodiments like the anvil caps shown in Figure 26, for example. . In those embodiments where the weld 1178'' is discontinuous or intermittent, the weld segments may be evenly distributed along the long sides 1177'' of the anvil cap 1170'' or the weld segments may be more densely spaced closer to the distal ends of long sides 1177'' or more densely spaced closer to proximal ends of long sides 1177''. In yet other arrangements, the weld segments may be more densely spaced in the central areas of the long sides 1177'' of the anvil cap 1170''.

[00456] Still referring to Figures 31 and 32, the anvil cap 1170'' can be further welded to the anvil body 1132'' by a plurality of second distinct "deep" fastening welds 1192''. For example, each weld 1192" may be placed at the bottom of a corresponding hole or aperture 1194'' provided through the anvil cap 1170" so that a distinct weld 1192" may be formed along the anvil body portion 1132' ' between bosses 1190" and 1139". See Figure 32. The welds 1192'' may be evenly distributed along the long sides 1177'' of the anvil cap 1170'' or the welds 1192'' may be more densely spaced further near the distal ends of the long sides 1177'' or more densely spaced closer to the proximal ends of the long sides 1177''. In still other arrangements, the welds 1192'' may be more densely spaced in the central areas of the long sides 1177'' of anvil cover 1170''.

[00457] Figure 33 illustrates another anvil cover 1170"' that is configured to be "mechanically interlocked to the anvil body 1132"'' as well as welded to the upper body portion 1165. In this embodiment, a "tongue-in-groove" arrangement " is employed along each long side 1177''' of the anvil cover 1170'''. In particular, a continuous or intermittent laterally extending tab 1195''' projects from each of the long sides 1177''' of the anvil cap 1170'''. Each tab 1195''' corresponds to an axial slot 1197 ''' formed in the anvil body 1132'''. The anvil cap 1170''' is slid from an opening (not shown) in the distal end of the anvil body 1132''' to "mechanically" attach the cap from anvil to anvil body 1132'". The tabs 1195''' and slots 1197''' can be dimensioned relative to each other to establish a sliding friction fit therebetween. Furthermore, the anvil cap 1170''' can be welded to the anvil body 1132'''. The anvil body 1132'' and the anvil cap 1170''' may be fabricated from a metal that is conducive to welding. The weld 1178''' can extend around the entire perimeter 1172''' of the anvil cover 1170''' or it can be located only along the long sides 1177''' of the anvil cover 1170'''. The 1178’’’ weld can be continuous or discontinuous or intermittent. In those embodiments where the weld 1178''' is discontinuous or intermittent, the weld segments may be evenly distributed along the long sides 1177''' of the anvil cap 1170''' or the weld segments may be more densely spaced closer to the distal ends of the long sides 1177''' or more densely spaced closer to the proximal ends of the long sides 1177'''. In yet other arrangements, the weld segments may be more densely spaced in the central areas of the long sides 1177''' of the anvil cap 1170'''.

[00458] The anvil embodiments described herein with anvil caps can provide several advantages. One advantage, for example, can make the process of assembling the anvil and firing member assembly easier. That is, the trigger member can be installed through the opening in the anvil body while the anvil is attached to the elongated channel. A further advantage is that the top cap can improve the stiffness and resistance of the anvil to the aforementioned bending forces that can be experienced during tissue clamping. By resisting such bending, the frictional forces normally encountered by firing member 1660 can be reduced. In this way, the amount of firing force required to drive the firing member from its initial position to its final position on the surgical staple cartridge can also be reduced.

[00459] As indicated above, as the anvil 1130 begins to rotate, the anvil structure 1132 comes into contact with the tissue to be cut and stapled, which is positioned between the lower surface of the elongated anvil body 1132 and the platform of the surgical staple cartridge 1110. When the anvil body 1132 is pressed against tissue, the anvil 1130 can experience considerable amounts of resistive forces. To continue the closing process, these resistive forces need to be overcome by the distal closing tube segment 1430 as it comes into cam contact with the anvil mounting portion 1150. These resistive forces can generally be applied to the tube segment distal closure tube segment 1430 in vertical directions, V which, if excessive, could cause distal closure tube segment 1430 to expand or elongate in the vertical direction (distance ID in Figure 31 may increase). If the distal closure tube 1430 extends in vertical directions, the distal closure tube segment 1430 may not be able to effectively close the anvil 1130 and retain the anvil 1130 in the fully closed position. If this condition occurs, trigger member 1660 may encounter dramatically greater resistance which will then require greater trigger forces to distally advance the trigger member.

[00460] Figures 34 and 35 illustrate a form of a closing member to apply a closing movement to a movable claw of a surgical instrument. In the illustrated arrangement, the closure member comprises, for example, a distal closure tube segment 1430 having a closure body portion 1470. As discussed above, a shape of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 is configured to facilitate Selective articulation of the surgical end actuator 1100. To facilitate such articulation, the distal closure tube segment 1430 is movably coupled to the proximal closure tube segment 1410 by means of an upper projection 1434 and a lower projection 1436 and a upper and lower dual pivot links 1220 and 1222. See Figure 10. In one arrangement, the distal closure tube segment 1430 may be machined or otherwise formed from round bar fabricated from, for example, a suitable metallic material. . In the illustrated arrangement, the closure body 1470 has an outer surface 1431 and an inner surface 1433 that define an upper wall portion 1440 having a UWT upper wall cross-sectional thickness and a lower wall portion 1442 having a thickness of UWT. bottom wall LWT. The upper wall portion 1440 is located above the drive shaft SA and the lower wall portion 1442 is located below the drive shaft SA. Distal end 1441 of upper wall portion 1440 has an inner cam surface 1444 formed thereon inner at a cam angle θ. Also in the illustrated embodiment, UWT > LWT which serves to provide a longer inner cam surface 1444 than would otherwise be obtainable if the distal closure tube segment had a uniform wall thickness. A long inner cam surface can be advantageous for transferring the closing forces to the cam surface(s) on the anvil mounting portion 1150. As can also be seen in Figures 34 and 35, the transitional sidewalls 1446, 1448 that are located on each side of the drive shaft SA between the upper wall portion 1440 and the lower wall portion 1442 comprise generally vertically extending, flat inner sidewall surfaces 1451, 1453 that may be generally parallel each other. Transitional sidewalls 1446, 1448 each have a wall thickness that changes from the top wall thickness to the bottom wall thickness.

[00461] In the illustrated arrangement, the distal closure tube segment 1430 also includes positive claw or anvil opening features 1462 that correspond to and project into each of the sidewalls 1446 and 1448. As seen in Figures 34 and 35, the anvil opening features 1462 are formed on a side mounting body 1460 that is sized to be received within a correspondingly shaped cavity 1447, 1449 machined or otherwise formed in the walls. transition sides 1446, 1448 adjacent distal end 1438 of distal closure tube segment 1430. Positive anvil opening features 1462 extend inwardly through corresponding openings 1450, 1452 in transition side walls 1446, 1448. Illustrated, side mounting bodies 1460 are welded to distal closure tube segment 1430 with welds 1454. In addition to welds or alternatively to welds, side mounting bodies 1460 can be held in place with a mechanical/friction fit, tongue-in-groove arrangements, adhesive, etc.

[00462] Figures 36-41 illustrate an example of using the distal closing tube segment 1430 to move the anvil 1130 from a fully closed position to a fully open position. Figures 36 and 39 illustrate the position of the distal closure tube segment 1430 and, more particularly, the position of one of the positive anvil opening features 1462 when the distal closure tube segment 1430 is in the fully closed position. In the illustrated example, an anvil opening ramp 1162 is formed on the underside of each of the anvil attachment flanges 1151. When anvil 1130 and distal closure tube segment 1430 are in their fully closed positions shown in Figure 36 , each of the positive anvil opening features 1462 is located in a cavity 1164 that is established between the anvil opening ramps 1162 and the lower portion of the elongated channel 1102. When in this position, the positive anvil opening features 1462 do not contact the anvil mounting portion 1150 or at least do not apply any significant movement or opening forces thereto. Figures 37 and 40 illustrate the positions of anvil 1130 and distal closure tube segment 1430 upon initial application of an opening motion in the proximal PD direction to distal closure tube segment 1430. As seen in Figure 37 , positive jaw opening features 1462 initially contacted anvil opening ramps 1164 to cause anvil 1130 to begin rotating to an open position. In the illustrated arrangement, each of the positive anvil opening features 1462 has a ramped or rounded distal end 1463 to facilitate better cam contact with the corresponding anvil opening system 1162. In Figures 38 and 41, the distal closing tube segment 1430 has been retracted back to its fully retracted position, which causes the positive anvil opening features 1462 to be engaged for the distal ends of the anvil opening ramps 1162 , which causes the anvil 1130 to be rotated to its fully open position, as shown there. Other modalities may not employ the positive jaw opening features, but may rely on springs or other pulling arrangements to pull the anvil into the open position when the distal closure tube segment has been retracted to its most proximal starting position.

[00463] Figures 42 and 43 illustrate another closing member to apply closing movements to a mobile claw of a surgical instrument. In this example, the closure member comprises a distal closure tube segment 1430' which may be similar to the distal closure tube segment 1430 without the positive anvil opening features. The distal closure tube segment 1430' has a closure body 1470' having an outer surface 1440' and an inner surface 1433' that define an upper wall portion 1440' and a lower wall portion 1442'. As noted above, it may be desirable to employ as large an inner cam surface 1444' as possible to maximize cam contact with the cam surface on anvil mounting portion 1150 to thereby effectively transfer closing forces thereto. Thus, the upper wall portion 1440' of the distal closure tube segment 1430' can be provided with the thickest UWT wall thickness and the lower portion of the distal closure tube segment 1430' can be provided with the thinnest wall thickness. LWT. For reference purposes, the UWT and LWT are measured along a common reference line that extends through a central axis or point C of the distal closure tube segment 1430'. Thus, when UWT is diametrically opposed to LWT, UWT > LWT. Such wall thickness arrangements facilitate the formation of a longer inner cam surface 1444'.

[00464] As can be seen in Figure. 43, the distal closure tube segment 1430' preferably has an outer surface 1431' that has a circular cross-sectional shape. The distal closure tube segment 1430' can be machined from a solid rolled bar. In the illustrated example, inner radius R1 from a first center axis Ainner extends to inner surface 1433' and outer radius R2 from a second center axis Aouter extends to outer surface 1431'. In the illustrated example, the Ainternal geometry axis is offset by the OR distance of an Aexternal geometry axis and R2 > R1.

[00465] Figure 44 illustrates another closing member to apply closing movements to a mobile claw of a surgical instrument. In this example, the closure member comprises a distal closure tube segment 1430'' having a closure body 1470''. The closure body 1470'' has an outer surface 1431' and an inner surface 1433'' that define an upper wall portion 1440'' having a UWT upper wall thickness and a lower wall portion 1442'' having a UWT upper wall thickness. bottom wall thickness LWT and two sidewall portions 1435' that each have a sidewall thickness SWT. In the illustrated example, UWT > LWT. Also, SWT>UWT. Thus, SWT > UWT>LWT. In the illustrated arrangement, sidewall portions 1435' have the same sidewall thickness SWT. In other arrangements, sidewall portions 1435' can have different thicknesses. As seen in Figure 44, each side wall portion 1435' defines a vertically extending inner surface portion 1437'. In the illustrated embodiment, the vertically extending inner surface portions are approximately parallel to each other. Such thicker vertical sidewall portions 1435' can help to avoid or at least minimize the vertical elongation of the distal closure tube segment 1430'' when in use.

[00466] In the example represented in Figure 45, R1 and R2 are measured from a central point or common central geometric axis C and R1 > R2. Each of the side wall portions 1435'' of the closure body portion 1470''' and the distal closure tube segment 1430'' extending between the upper portion 1431'' and 1433'' have a wall thickness lateral SWT that is approximately equal to the UWT at points along a horizontal reference line HR. The horizontal reference line HR is perpendicular to a vertical reference line VR that extends through the central geometry axis C and along which UWT and LWT can be measured and compared. In this way, SWT=UWT. In other Examples, SWT, when measured along the HR horizontal reference line, may be slightly less than UWT. The SWT can continue to decrease until the sidewall portions 1435' also change to the bottom portion 1433', which has a constant bottom wall thickness LWT. Thus, the inner side walls 1437'' also extend at an angle A2, when measured from a corresponding vertical reference axis VR', which is perpendicular to the horizontal reference axis HR and parallel to the vertical reference axis of VR reference.

[00467] Figure 46 illustrates another closing member to apply closing movements to a mobile claw of a surgical instrument. In this example, the closure member comprises a distal closure tube segment 1430" having a closure body 1470" having a rounded outer surface 1431" and a rectangular shaped inner passageway 1439 extending therethrough. outer 1431'' is located at a distance R from the center point or center geometry axis C. When measured along a vertical reference axis VR that extends through the center point or center axis C as shown, the UWT top wall thickness is equal to LWT bottom wall thickness. When measured along a horizontal reference axis HR that extends through the center point or center axis C and that is perpendicular to the vertical reference axis VR, the SWT thicknesses of the side wall portions 1437'' are greater than the UWT and LWT top wall and bottom wall thicknesses, thus the SWT is greater than the UWT and LWT. Stated another way, the portion of the distal closure tube segment 1430" located above the horizontal reference line HR is a mirror image of the portion of the distal closure tube segment 1430" located below the horizontal reference line HR. In this example, the side portions 1437'' are thicker than the top and bottom wall portions and may tend to prevent or minimize the tendency for the distal closure tube segment to elongate in vertical directions. The inner cam surface may be formed at the distal end of the upper wall portion 1440".

[00468] In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil 1130 is moved between the open and closed positions by distally advancing the segment of the distal closure tube 1430. As can be seen in Figure 41, when the anvil 1130 is in the fully open position, the ends The distal ends 1163 of the anvil attachment flanges 1151 may extend above the platform surface 1116 of the staple cartridge 1110. When the closure process is initiated by distally advancing the distal closure tube segment in the distal DD direction, the distal ends 1163 of the clamping flanges of the anvil 1151 extend beyond the platform surface 1116 of the staple cartridge 1110 in order to avoid tissue infiltration therebetween, which could hinder the closing process. See Figure 40. Once the anvil 1130 has been moved into the fully closed position by the distal closure tube segment 1430, the distal ends 1461 of the side mounting bodies on the distal closure tube segment 1430 still act as stop stops. fabric to prevent fabric from seeping between them. See Figure 41.

[00469] Figure 47 represents a portion of a surgical end actuator 110', which may be similar to the surgical end actuator 110 of the interchangeable surgical tool set 100 of Figures 1 and 2. In the example illustrated in Figure 47, the anvil 114 includes an elongate body portion 190 and an anvil mounting portion 192. Anvil mounting portion 192 comprises two spaced apart anvil mounting flanges 194 projecting proximally from the elongated body portion 190. Each mounting flange anvil 194 has an outwardly extending pivot pin 196 on it. The pivot pins 196 are each movably received within a corresponding kidney-shaped slot or elongated arcuate pivot pin slot 197 which is provided in the elongated channel 112. When the anvil 114 is in a "fully open" position ", the pivot pins 196 are generally located in the lower portions 198 of the elongated arcuate pivot pin slots 197. The anvil 114 can be moved into a closed position by distally advancing the distal closure tube segment 142 in the distal direction DD of so that the end 148 of the distal closure tube segment 142 slides over a cam surface 193 that is formed over the anvil mounting portion 192 of the anvil 114. As the distal end 148 of the distal closure tube segment 142 is advanced distally along a cam surface 193 on the anvil mounting portion 192, the distal closure tube segment 142 causes the body portion 190 of the anvil 114 to rotate and move axially relative to the surgical staple cartridge 116. When the distal closure tube segment 142 reaches the end of its closure stroke, the distal end 148 of the distal closure tube segment 142 adjoins/contacts an abrupt anvil projection 191 and serves to position the anvil 114 so that forming pockets (not shown) on the underside of body portion 190 are properly aligned with the clips on the cartridge. The anvil projection 191 is defined between the cam surface 193 on the anvil mounting portion 192 and the elongated anvil body portion 190. Stated another way, in this arrangement, the cam surface 193 does not extend to the outermost surface 195 of the anvil body 190. After the distal closure tube 142 has reached this fully extended position, any further application of closure to anvil 114 can cause damage to the anvil and/or components of the closure system. As can be seen in Figure. 47, in this arrangement, the closing force FH is parallel to the geometric axis of the drive shaft SA. The distance from an axis or plane TA passing through the centers of the pivot pins 196 to the closing force vector FH is represented as the distance XR. This distance XR times the closing force FH represents a closing moment CM that is applied to the anvil 114.

[00470] Figures 48 and 49 illustrate the closing force settings for an anvil 1130 of a surgical end actuator 1100 of the interchangeable surgical tool set 1000. As indicated above, the anvil swivel pins 1158 are pivotally mounted within of holes 1154 in elongated channel 1102. Unlike anvil 114 described above, anvil 1130 does not move axially. Instead, the anvil 1130 is constrained to rotate only about the anvil axis AA. As the distal closure tube segment 1430 is advanced in the distal DD direction under the horizontal closure force FH1, the interaction between the inner cam surface 1444 on the distal closure tube segment 1430 and the cam surface 1152 on the mounting portion of anvil 1150 causes the distal closure tube segment 1430 to experience a vertical closure force component VF. The resultant force vector FN experienced by the cam surface 1152 on the anvil mounting portion 1150 is "normal to" or perpendicular to the inner cam surface 1444. The angle θ in Figures 48 and 49 represents the angle of the cam surface 1152 as well as inner cam surface 1440 with respect to horizontal. The distance between this resultant force vector FN and an axis or plane TA that extends through the centers of the anvil pivot pins 1158 is represented as the moment arm MA. This moment arm distance MA times the resultant force vector FN represents a closing moment CM1 that is applied to anvil 1130. Thus, in applications where horizontal closing forces FH=FH1, the actual amount of closing torque applied to anvil 1130 will be greater than the amount of closing torque applied to anvil 114 because MA > XR and therefore the closing moment applied to anvil 1130 will be greater than the closing moment applied to anvil 114. Figure 49 also illustrates the resistive forces established by the tissue during the closing process. FT represent the force generated by the tissue when the tissue is clamped between the anvil and the staple cartridge. This "counter" moment MT that is applied to the anvil 1130 is equal to the distance XT between the fabric force TF and the axis or plane TA that extends through the centers of the anvil pivot pins 1158 times the fabric force TF. Therefore, in order to obtain a desired amount of anvil closure, CM1 needs to be greater than MT.

[00471] Again with reference to the example depicted in Figure 47, it can be seen that the firing bar 170 is attached to a firing member 174 which, when in an initial or non-fired position, is located inside the elongated channel 112 and more particularly, it is located completely distal to the distal closure tube segment 142 at a position in which an upper portion 175 of the trigger member 174 is in contact with a portion of the anvil 114. How the trigger member 174 is located in a position in which the upper portion 175 thereof can contact the anvil as the anvil 114 is moved into the closed position, such an arrangement may result in greater closing forces being required to move the anvil 114 into a closed position. completely or completely closed. Furthermore, when the firing system is activated, greater firing forces may be required to overcome frictional interference between the upper portion 175 of the firing member 174 and the anvil 114. On the other hand, as seen in Figure 48, at the end actuator 1100, the firing member 1660 is "parked" in the firing member parking area 1154 that is within the distal closure tube segment 1430. When the firing member 1660 is located within the parking area of the firing member 1154 within distal closure tube segment 1430, it is unable to generate significant frictional forces with the anvil. Thus, one of the advantages that can be gained by parking the trigger member 1660 completely within the distal closing tube segment 1430 can be to reduce the amount of closing force required to close the anvil to a fully closed position and/or or a reduction in the amount of firing force required to advance the firing member from the initial position to the final position within the end actuator. Stated another way, parking the trigger member 1660 so that the trigger member 1660 is fully proximal to the distal end of the distal closure tube segment 1430 and the inner cam surface 1444 therein and in an initial position in which any frictional contact between the firing member and the anvil is eliminated or reduced, may ultimately require that lower closing and firing forces be generated for operation of the end actuator.

[00472] As discussed above, excessive flexing of the anvil during the closing and firing processes can lead to the need for undesirably higher firing forces. Therefore, more rigid anvil arrangements are generally desirable. With reference again to Figures 20 and 21, another advantage that can be provided by the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102 shown therein is that the anvil mounting portion 1150 of the anvil 1130 is generally more robust and therefore more rigid than other anvil and elongated channel arrangements. Figure 50 illustrates the use of stiffening webs 199 between the anvil mounting flanges 194 and the elongated portion of the anvil body 190. Similar web arrangements may also be employed between the anvil attachment flanges 1151 and the anvil body 1132 of the 1130 anvil to further accentuate the rigidity of the anvil.

[00473] As indicated above, the interchangeable surgical tool set 1000 includes an elastic center column member 1520. As can be seen in Figures 6, 7, 7A, 8 and 51 to 54, the distal end portion 1522 of the Elastic center column 1520 is separated from the proximal end portion 1524 of elastic center column member 15 by a stretch feature 1530 formed in elastic center column member 1520. Additionally, a stretch limiting insert 1540 is retainably held between the distal end portion 1522 and the proximal end portion 1524. In various arrangements, the elastic center column element 1520 may be fabricated from, for example, a suitable polymeric material, rubber, etc.; which has an elastic modulus designated as ME1 for reference purposes. Stretch feature 1530 may include a plurality of stretch cavities 1532. As seen in Figure 7A, illustrated stretch feature 1530 includes four triangular shaped stretch cavities 1532 that are arranged to define somewhat flexible wall segments 1534 between the same. Other shapes and numbers of stretch cavities 1532 may be employed. Stretch cavities 1532 can be molded or machined into elastic center column member 1520, for example.

[00474] Still referring to Figures 6, 7 and 51 to 54, the stretch restrictor insert 1540 comprises a body portion 1541 having a modulus of elasticity designated as ME2 for reference purposes. As seen in Figure 6, body portion 1541 includes two downwardly extending mounting pins 1542 that are each configured to seat in mounting cavities 1535 formed in elastic center column member 1520. See Figure 7A. To provide stretch limiting insert 1540 with a desired amount of extensibility and elasticity, body portion 1541 in the illustrated arrangement is provided with a plurality of upper cavities 1543. The illustrated example includes four upper cavities 1543 that are relatively shaped. square or rectangular and which are spaced to define flexible walls 1544 therebetween. Other embodiments may include other numbers and shapes of upper wells. The body portion 1541 of the illustrated stretch limiting insert 1540 also includes a centrally disposed downwardly projecting central pin portion 1545 that is configured to seat in a central cavity 1536 above the stretch feature 1530. See Fig. Figure 7A. In the illustrated example, center pin portion 1545 includes a pair of center passages 1546 extending laterally therethrough to define a flexible wall 1547 therebetween.

[00475] Also in the illustrated example, the stretch limiting insert 1540 includes an elongated side cavity 1548 that is positioned on each lateral side of the body portion 1541. Only one side cavity 1548 can be seen in Figures 6 and 51 to 54 Each elongated side cavity 1548 is configured to hold a corresponding stretch limiter 1550 therein. Thus, in the described example, two stretch restrictors 1550 are employed in the stretch restrictor insert 1540. In at least one arrangement, the stretch restrictor 1550 includes an elongated body portion 1552 that terminates at each end with a pin. downwardly extending assembly 1554. Each assembly pin 1554 is received in a corresponding boss cavity 1549 formed in body portion 1541. The stretch limiter may have a modulus of elasticity for reference purposes of ME3. In at least one arrangement, ME3 < ME2 < ME1.

[00476] The performance of the interchangeable surgical tool set 1000 when operationally attached to the handle set 500 will now be described in greater detail with reference to Figures 51 to 54. Figure 51 illustrates the anvil 1130 in an open position. As seen in this Figure, the distal closing tube segment 1430 is in its home or non-actuated position and the positive anvil opening features 1462 have rotated the anvil 1130 to the open position. Furthermore, the firing member 1660 is in the non-actuated or home position, wherein the upper portion, including the top nose portion 1630, is parked in the firing member parking area 1154 of the anvil mounting portion 1150. When the interchangeable tooling 1000 is in its unactuated state, the stretch limiting insert 1540 is in its unstretched state. The axial length of the stretch restrictor insert 1540 when in the unstretched state is represented by LUS in Figure 51. LUS represents the distance between a reference axis that corresponds to the proximal end of the body portion 1541 of the stretch restrictor insert stretch 1540 and a reference axis B that corresponds to the distal end of the body portion 1541, as shown in Figure 51. The axis identified as F corresponds to the location of the distal end of the staple cartridge 1110 that has been properly seated within the channel elongated 1102. It will be understood that when the tool assembly 1000 is in this unactuated state, the elastic center column member 1520 is in a relaxed unstretched state.

[00477] Figure 52 illustrates the interchangeable surgical tool set 1000 after the closure drive system 510 has been activated as described above to drive the distal closure tube segment 1430 distally in the distal DD direction. As the distal closure tube segment 1430 moves distally, the cam surface 1444 at the distal end 1441 of the upper wall portion 1440 of the distal closure tube segment 1430 comes into cam contact with the cam surface 1152 at the bottom portion. anvil assembly 1150 and rotates anvil 1130 to the closed position as shown. The closing drive system 510 moves the distal closing tube segment 1430 through its full closing stroke distance and then is deactivated and the distal closing tube segment is axially locked or otherwise retained in that position by the system. closing drive 510. As distal closure tube segment 1430 contacts anvil mounting portion 1150, closure forces generated by distally advancing distal closure tube segment 1430 over anvil 1130 will also advance axially the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102 in the distal DD direction. Stretch feature 1530 on elastic center post 1520 will begin to stretch to accommodate this distal advancement of elongated channel 1102 and anvil 1130. Axis B shown in Figure 52 is a reference axis for stretch limiting insert 1540 when in a relaxed or unstretched state. The axis C corresponds to the end of the stretch restrictor insert 1540 after the stretch restrictor insert has been extended to its maximum elongated state. The distance Ls represents the maximum amount or length that the stretch limiting insert 1540 can elongate. The axis G corresponds to the location of the distal end of the surgical staple cartridge 1110 after the anvil 1130 has been moved to that "first" closed position. The distance LT between the geometric reference axes F and G represents the axial distance that the elongated channel 1102 and the anvil 1130 travel during the actuation of the closing actuation system 510. This distance LT can be equal to the distance LS that the closing element stretch limiter insert 1540 was stretched during the closing process as limited by stretch limiter 1550.

[00478] Again with reference to Figure 51, it can be noted that there is a space S between each mounting pin 1554 of the stretch limiter 1550 and the inner walls 1551 of each of the pin cavities 1549 before the start of the closing process . As can be seen in Figure 52, the S spaces no longer exist. That is, each of the mounting pins 1554 is adjacent to its corresponding cavity wall 1549 in the stretch restrictor insert 1540. In this way, the stretch limiter 1550 serves to limit the amount of elongation experienced by the restrictor insert. of stretching 1540, which in turn limits the amount of distal displacement of the elongated channel 1102 and the anvil 1130 relative to the proximal end portion 1524 of the elastic center column 1520. The distal closure tube 1430 is axially locked into position by the locking system. closing drive 510. When in this position, the anvil 1130 is retained in a "first" closed position with respect to the surgical staple cartridge 1110. Because the firing drive system 530 has not yet been actuated, the firing member 510 1660 has not moved and remains parked in the parking area of firing member 1154. The position of the underside of anvil 1130 when in the "first" closed position is represented by axis K in Figures 52 and 53.

[00479] Figure 53 illustrates the position of the trigger member 1660 after the trigger drive system 530 has been initially triggered. As seen in this Figure, the trigger member 1660 has been advanced distally out of the parking area of the trigger member 1154. The upper portion of the trigger member 1660, and more specifically, each of the upper anvil engagement features 1672 entered the proximal ramp portion 1138 of the corresponding axial passage 1146 in the anvil 1130. At this point in the process, the anvil 1130 may be under considerable bending stress caused by tissue that is trapped between the underside of the anvil 1130 and the cartridge platform. clips 1110. This bending stress, as well as the frictional resistance between the various portions of the trigger member and the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102, essentially serves to retain the elongated channel 1102 and the distal closure tube segment in one static condition while trigger member 1660 is initially distally advanced. During this period of time, the amount of force required to fire firing member 1660 or, stated another way, the amount of force required to distally push firing member 1660 through the tissue that is trapped between anvil 1130 and the cartridge 1110 is increasing. See line 1480 in Figure 55. Also during this time period, the stretch limiting insert is attempting to retract the elongated channel 1102 and anvil 1130 in the proximal PD direction into the distal closure tube segment 1430. If the amount of friction between the trigger member 1660 and the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102 is less than the retraction force generated by the stretch limiting insert 1540, the stretch limiting insert 1540 will cause the elongated channel 1102 and anvil 1130 are pulled proximally further into the distal closure tube segment 1430. The position of the distal end 1113 of the staple cartridge 1110 after the elongated channel 1102 and anvil 1130 have traveled in the proximal PD direction is represented as the position of H in Figure 54. The axial distance that the elongated channel 1102 and the anvil 1130 travel in the proximal direction PD is represented as the distance I in Figure 54. This proximal movement of the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102 inwards of the distal closure tube segment 1430 will result in additional closing forces being applied to the anvil 1130 by the distal closure tube segment 1430. The M line in Figure 54 represents the "second" closed position of the anvil 1130. K and the position M, which is represented as the distance N, comprises the vertical distance that the distal end 1133 of the anvil body 1132 travels between the first closed position and the second closed position.

[00480] The application of additional closing forces to the anvil 1130 by the distal closing tube segment 1430 when the anvil 1130 is in the second closed position, resists the amount of bending forces applied to the anvil 1130 by the tissue that is trapped between the anvil 1130 and the cartridge 1110. Such a condition can lead to better alignment between the passages in the anvil body 1130 and the firing member 1660 which can ultimately reduce the amount of frictional resistance that the firing member 1660 experiences as it continues to fire. advanced distally through end actuator 1100. In this way, the amount of firing force required to advance the firing member through balancing its firing stroke to the final position can be reduced. This reduction in firing force can be seen in the graph in Figure 55. The graph shown in Figure 55 compares the firing force (Energy) required to fire the firing member from the beginning to the end of the firing process. Line 1480 represents the amount of trigger force required to move trigger member 1660 from its initial position to its final position when end actuator 1100 is stapling tissue thereon. Line 1482, for example, represents the amount of firing force required to move the firing member of the interchangeable surgical tool set 1000 described above. Line 1482 represents the trigger force required to move trigger member 174 from its initial position to its final position through the fabric that is secured to end actuator 110 or 110'. As can be seen from this graph, the firing forces required by both sets of surgical tools 100, 1000 are substantially the same or very similar up to the point in time 1484 when the elastic center column set 1510 of the tool set interchangeable 1000 results in a second amount of closing force being applied to the anvil. As can be seen from the graph of Figure 55, when the second amount of closing force is experienced by the anvil 1130 (point 1484), the amount of closing force required to complete the firing process is less than the amount of closing force required to complete the close process in toolkit 100.

[00481] Figure 56 compares the amount of firing load required to move a firing member of multiple surgical end actuators from a start position (0.0) to a stop position (1.0). The vertical axis represents the amount of firing load, and the horizontal axis represents the percentage of the distance the firing member traveled between the start position (0.0) and the end position (1.0). Line 1490 represents the firing force required to fire, for example, the firing member of a surgical tool set 100 or similar tool set. Line 1492 represents the firing force required to fire the firing member of a surgical tool assembly than the various firing member enhancements and configurations that may be disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/ 385,917 entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENT CLAMPING BREADTHS and the other aforementioned US patent applications which were filed on December 21, 2016 and which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Line 1494 represents the firing force required to fire the firing member from its initial position to the final position of surgical tool sets employing at least some of the features and arrangements disclosed herein for stiffening the anvil. Line 1496 represents the firing force required to fire, for example, surgical tool sets employing the elastic center column arrangement and at least some of the features and arrangements disclosed herein for stiffening the anvil. As can be seen from this Figure, the surgical tool assembly employing the elastic center column arrangement and at least some of the anvil stiffening arrangements disclosed herein have a much lower firing force requirement.

[00482] Figures 57-62 depict a forming pocket arrangement 10100 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. The shaping pocket arrangement 10100 comprises a proximal shaping pocket 10110 and a distal shaping pocket 10130 defined on a flat or tissue contacting surface 10107 of an anvil 10101. The pockets 10110, 10130 are aligned along a Longitudinal axis of pocket 10103 of forming pocket arrangement 10100. A staple is intended to be formed along the axis of pocket 10103 by forming pocket arrangement 10100 when deployed from a staple cartridge. Referring to Figures 58 and 59, formation pocket arrangement 10100 further comprises a bridge portion, or ridge, 10105 defined between formation pockets 10110 and 10130. In that case, bridge portion 10105 is part of planar surface 10107 of the anvil 10101. The bridge portion 10105 comprises a bridge width "W". Formation pocket arrangement 10100 comprises a center "C" defined within bridge portion 10105. Formation pocket arrangement 10100 is bilaterally symmetrical with respect to bridge portion 10105, bilaterally symmetrical with respect to pocket axis 10103, and rotationally symmetric about the center "C".

[00483] The training pocket 10110 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls 10113 and the training pocket 10130 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls 10133. The pocket sidewalls 10113, 10133 are configured to direct the ends and legs of the staples towards the forming surfaces of the pockets 10110, 10130 if the ends of the staples and/or the legs of the staples initially reach the side walls 10113, 10133 of the pockets 10110, 10130. Referring to Figures 60-62, the side walls 10113, 10133 extend from the flat surface 10107 of the anvil 10101 to the forming surfaces of each of the pockets 10110, 10130. The sidewalls 10113, 10133 of the forming pockets 10110, 10130 are positioned at an angle to the flat surface 10107 of anvil 10101 at angle θ to drive, or channel, the staple legs and/or the ends of the staples toward the forming surfaces. The sidewalls 10113, 10133 are configured to encourage the staple tips and/or the legs of the staples to form along the axis of the pocket 10103 as the staples are formed against the pocket forming surfaces 10110, 10130.

[00484] Referring again to Figure 58, the pocket forming surfaces 10110, 10130 comprise an inlet area forming surface 10111, 10131 and an outlet area forming surface 10112, 10132, respectively. In that case, the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the inlet zone forming surfaces 10111, 10131 cover is equal to the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the outlet zone forming surfaces 10112, 10132 cover. As a result, the entry zone forming surfaces 10111, 10131 transition to the exit zone forming surfaces 10112, 10132 at the center of each pocket 10110, 10130. The transitions between the entry zone forming surfaces 10111 , 10131 and exit zone forming surfaces 10112, 10132 define a valley, or recess, of each pocket 10110, 10130. The forming pocket valleys 10110, 10130 define a portion, or segment, of the forming surfaces having the greatest vertical distance from flat surface 10107.

[00485] With reference to Figure 59, the forming surfaces of each pocket 10110, 10130 comprise a longitudinal radius of curvature 10117, 10137, respectively. In that case, the longitudinal radius of curvature 10117 is equal to the radius of curvature 10137. Furthermore, in that case, the longitudinal radius of curvature 10117 and the longitudinal radius of curvature 10137 can form a symmetrical clamp. In other embodiments, the longitudinal radius of curvature 10117 and the longitudinal radius of curvature 10137 are different and can form an asymmetric clip.

[00486] The valleys of the formation pockets 10110, 10130 also define the narrowest portion of the formation surfaces of each pocket 10110, 10130. Figure 61 is a cross-sectional view of the distal formation pocket 10130, taken along the line 61-61 in Figure 58. This view illustrates the valley, or recess, of the distal forming pocket 10130. The outer edges of each pocket 10110, 10130 define the widest portion of the forming surfaces of each pocket 10110, 10130. 60 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the distal shaping pocket 10130 taken along line 60-60 in Figure 58 that is within the forming surface of the exit zone 10132 of the distal shaping pocket 10130. Figure 62 is a cross-sectional view of cross section of distal training pocket 10130 taken along line 62-62 in Figure 58 that is within the entry zone forming surface 10132 of distal training pocket 10130. forming the entry zone 10111 of the proximal formation pocket 10110 and exiting at the exit zone forming surface 10112 of the proximal formation pocket 10110. Similarly, a distal clip leg is configured to land on the formation zone formation surface of the proximal formation pocket. entry 10131 of the distal training pocket 10130 and exit at the forming surface of the exit zone 10132 of the distal training pocket 10130.

[00487] Figures 63-68 depict a forming pocket arrangement 10200 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. The formation pocket arrangement 10200 comprises a proximal formation pocket 10210 and a distal formation pocket 10230 defined on a flat or tissue contacting surface 10207 of an anvil 10201. The pockets 10210, 10230 are aligned along a Longitudinal axis of pocket 10203 of forming pocket arrangement 10200. A staple is intended to be formed along the axis of pocket 10203 by forming pocket arrangement 10200 when deployed from a staple cartridge. Referring to Figures 64 and 65, forming pocket arrangement 10200 further comprises a bridging portion 10205 defined between forming pockets 10210 and 10230. In that case, bridging portion 10205 is recessed relative to flat surface 10207 of the anvil 10201. The bridge portion 10205 comprises a bridge width "W" and a bridge depth "D". The bridge depth "D" is the distance that the bridge portion 10205 is recessed relative to the flat surface 10207. The forming pocket arrangement 10200 comprises a center "C" defined within the bridge portion 10205. Formation pocket 10200 is bilaterally symmetrical with respect to bridge portion 10205, bilaterally symmetrical with respect to pocket axis 10203, and rotationally symmetrical with respect to center "C".

[00488] The formation pocket arrangement 10200 further comprises a pair of primary side walls 10208 extending from the flat surface 10207 of the anvil 10201 towards the pockets 10210, 10230 and the bridge portion 10205. The primary side walls 10208 are angled at angle θ2 relative to the flat surface 10207 of the anvil 10201. The forming pocket arrangement 10200 further comprises edge features 10215, 10235 that provide a transition feature between the outer edges of the pockets 10210, 10230 and the surface flat 10207, between the longitudinal edges of the pockets 10210, 10230 and the primary side walls 10208, and between the inner edges of the pockets 10210, 10230 and the bridge portion 10205. These edges 10215, 10235 may be rounded and/or chamfered, for example example. Edge features 10215, 10235 can help prevent staple tips from sticking together, as discussed in more detail below.

[00489] The formation pocket 10210 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls 10213 and the formation pocket 10230 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls 10233. The pocket sidewalls 10213, 10233 are configured to direct the ends of the staples and the legs of the staples towards the forming surfaces of the pockets 10210, 10230 if the ends of the staples and/or the legs of the staples initially reach the side walls 10213, 10233 of the pockets 10210, 10230. The side walls 10213, 10233 extend to from the flat surface 10215, 10235 towards the forming surfaces of each pocket 10210, 10230. The side walls 10213, 10233 of the forming pockets 10210, 10230 are positioned at an angle to the flat surface 10207 of the anvil 10201 at angle θ1 to directing, or channeling, the legs and/or staple tips of the staples toward the pocket forming surfaces 10210, 10230. The sidewalls 10213, 10233 are configured to encourage the clip tips and/or the legs of the staples to form along the axis of the pocket 10203 as the clips are formed against the forming surfaces of the pockets 10210, 10230. Collectively, the primary sidewalls 10208 and the pocket sidewalls 10213, 10233 can provide a configuration similar to a funnel to direct the ends of the staples. With reference to Figures 66 and 67, angle θ1 is greater than angle θ2.

[00490] The pockets 10210, 10230 further comprise transition edges 10214, 10234 that provide a transition feature between the sidewalls of the pocket 10213, 10233 and the forming surfaces, as discussed in more detail below. In many cases, transition edges 10214, 10234 may comprise a similar profile to transition edges 10215, 10235. In other cases, transition edges 10214, 10234 may comprise a different profile than transition edges 10215, 10235. , edges 10214, 10234 may be rounded or chamfered, for example. The edges 10214, 10234 comprise a first end where the edges 10214, 10234 meet the outer ends of the pockets 10210, 10230 and a second end where the edges 10214, 10234 approach the bridge portion 10205, or the inner ends of the pockets 10210, 10230. Edges 10214, 10234 may transition to transition edges 10215, 10235 near bridge portion 10205. Edge features 10214, 10234 may also help prevent staple tips from sticking to pockets 10210, 10230 during training, as discussed in more detail below.

[00491] Referring again to Figure 64, the pocket forming surfaces 10210, 10230 comprise an inlet zone forming surface 10211, 10231, an exit zone forming surface 10212, 10232, respectively. In that case, the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the inlet zone forming surfaces 10211, 10231 cover is greater than the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the outlet zone forming surfaces 10212, 10232 cover. . As a result, the entry zone forming surfaces 10211, 10231 do not transition to the exit zone forming surfaces 10212, 10232 at the center of each pocket 10210, 10230. Instead, the transition points where the zones The input zones 10211, 10231 transition to the output zones 10212, 10232 are closer to the bridge portion 10205. The transitions between the input zone forming surfaces 10211, 10231 and the output zone forming surfaces 10212, 10232 define a valley, or recess, of each pocket 10210, 10230. The formation pocket valleys 10210, 10230 define a portion, or segment, of the formation surfaces that have the greatest vertical distance from the flat surface 10207.

[00492] With reference to Figure 65, the forming surfaces of each pocket 10210, 10230 comprise more than one radius of curvature. Specifically, the pocket 10210 comprises an entry radius of curvature 10217 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 10211 and an exit radius of curvature 10218 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 10212. 10230 comprises an entry radius of curvature 10237 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 10231 and an exit radius of curvature 10238 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 10232. In that case, the entry radius of curvature 10217 , 10237 are greater than the output bend radii 10218, 10238, respectively. The specific relationships between the radii of curvature and various pocket characteristics will be discussed in more detail below, along with some advantages and potential patterns of the specific relationships.

[00493] In addition to defining the transition points where the entry zones transition to the exit zones, the valleys of the formation pockets 10210, 10230 also define the narrowest portion of the formation surfaces of each pocket 10210, 10230. The outer edges of each pocket 10210, 10230, also called inlet edges because they define the start of the inlet zone forming surfaces 10211, 10231, comprise an inlet width. The inner edges of each pocket 10210, 10230, also called exit edges because they define the end of the exit zone forming surfaces 10212, 10232, comprise an exit width. In this case, the input width is greater than the output width. Also, the exit width is greater than the valley width, or the narrowest portion of the formation surfaces. Figure 67 is a cross-sectional view of distal formation pocket 10230 taken along line 67-67 in Figure 64. This view illustrates the valley, or recess, of distal formation pocket 10230. This valley, or recess, it is also the transition between the entry zone forming surface 10231 and the exit zone forming surface 10232. Figure 66 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the distal forming pocket 10230 taken along line 66-66 in the Figure 64 that is located within the exit zone forming surface 10232 of the forming pocket 10230. Figure 68 is a cross-sectional view of the distal forming pocket 10230 taken along line 68-68 in Figure 64 that is within the entry zone forming surface 10232 of distal forming pocket 10230.

[00494] The forming pocket arrangement 10200, and various other forming pocket arrangements disclosed herein, are configured for use with staples of various diameters. The diameters of staples to be used with the forming pocket arrangement 10200 can range from about 0.0079 inch to about 0.0094 inch, for example. Further, the entry radius of curvature and the exit radius of curvature of each forming surface comprise a ratio of from about 1.5:1 to about 3:1 when the entry radius is between about 8x of the staple diameter and 10x the staple diameter, for example. In at least one case, the entry radius of curvature and the exit radius of curvature of each forming surface comprise a ratio of about 2:1 when the entry radius is 9x the clamp diameter, for example. In other cases, the entry radius of curvature and the exit radius of curvature of each forming surface comprise a ratio of from about 1.5:1 to about 3:1 when the entry radius is above about 0 .6x the length of the staple crown and the width of the crest, or bridge, is less than 1x the diameter of the staple, for example. In at least one case, the entry radius of curvature and the exit radius of curvature of each formation surface comprise a ratio of about 2:1 when the entry radius is greater than about 0.6x the crown length. staple and the width of the ridge, or bridge, is less than 1x the staple diameter. The output bend radius is between about 4x the clamp diameter and about 6x the diameter, for example. In at least one case, the output bend radius is about 4.5x the clamp diameter.

[00495] Figures 69-72 depict a forming pocket arrangement 10300 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. The formation pocket arrangement 10300 comprises a proximal formation pocket 10310 and a distal formation pocket 10330 defined on a flat or tissue contacting surface 10307 of an anvil 10301. The pockets 10310, 10330 are aligned along a Longitudinal axis of pocket 10303 of forming pocket arrangement 10300. A staple is intended to be formed along the axis of pocket 10303 by forming pocket arrangement 10300 when deployed from a staple cartridge. Referring primarily to Figures 70 and 71, forming pocket arrangement 10300 further comprises a bridging portion 10305 defined between forming pockets 10310 and 10330. In that case, bridging portion 10305 is recessed relative to flat surface 10307 of the anvil 10301. The bridge portion 10305 comprises a bridge width "W" and a bridge depth "D". The bridge depth "D" is the distance the bridge portion 10305 is recessed relative to the flat surface 10307. The forming pocket arrangement 10300 comprises a center "C" defined within the bridge portion 10305. Formation pocket 10300 is bilaterally symmetrical with respect to bridge portion 10305, bilaterally symmetrical with respect to pocket axis 10303, and rotationally symmetrical with respect to center "C".

[00496] The formation pocket arrangement 10300 further comprises a pair of primary side walls 10308 extending from the flat surface 10307 of the anvil 10301 towards the pockets 10310, 10330 and the bridge portion 10305. The primary side walls 10308 are angled at angle θ2 relative to the flat surface 10307 of the anvil 10301. The forming pocket arrangement 10300 further comprises a pair of edge features 10309 that provide a transition feature between the side edges of the pockets 10310, 10330 and the primary sidewalls 10308. Edges 10309 also provide a transitional feature between the center portions of primary sidewalls 10308 and bridge portion 10305. These edges 10309 may be rounded and/or chamfered, for example. Edge features 10309 can help prevent staple tips from sticking together, as discussed in more detail below.

[00497] The formation pocket 10310 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls 10313 and the formation pocket 10330 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls 10333. The pocket sidewalls 10313, 10333 are configured to direct the ends of the staples and the legs of the staples toward the pocket forming surfaces 10310, 10330 if the ends of the staples and/or the legs of the staples initially reach the sidewalls 10313, 10333 of the pockets 10310, 10330. The sidewalls 10313, 10333 extend to from the transition edges 10309 towards the forming surfaces of each pocket 10310, 10330. The side walls 10313, 10333 of the forming pockets 10310, 10330 are positioned at an angle to the flat surface 10307 of the anvil 10301 at angle θ1 to direct , or channeling, the staple legs and/or staple tips towards the pocket forming surfaces 10310, 10330. The sidewalls 10313, 10333 are configured to encourage the staple tips and/or staple legs to form along the axis of the pocket 10303 as the clips are formed against the forming surfaces of the pockets 10310, 10330. Collectively, the primary sidewalls 10308 and the pocket sidewalls 10313, 10333 can provide a funnel-like configuration for matching staple tips. With reference to Figures 72 and 73, angle θ1 is greater than angle θ2. In this case, the sidewalls of the pocket 10313, 10333 can be considered aggressive. For example, angle θ1 is 80 degrees. Similarly, angle θ2 is significantly less aggressive than angle θ1. For example, the angle θ2 is 4 degrees. Angle θ3 (Figure 73) is defined as the angle between sidewalls 10333 lying between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees. In many cases, the angle θ3 is 0 degrees and the walls 10333 are at least substantially parallel to each other.

[00498] The pockets 10310, 10330 further comprise transition edges 10306 that provide a transition feature between the sidewalls of the pocket 10313, 10333 and the forming surfaces, as discussed in more detail below. In various cases, transition edges 10306 may comprise a similar profile to transition edges 10309. In other cases, transition edges 10306 may comprise a different profile than transition edges 10309. That said, edges 10307 may be rounded or chamfered, for example. The edges 10306, 10309 comprise a first end where the edges 10306, 10309 meet the outer ends of the pockets 10310, 10330 and a second end where the edges 10306, 10309 approach the bridge portion 10305, or the inner ends of the pockets 10310, 10330. Edges 10306 may transition to transition edges 10309 near bridge portion 10305. Edge features 10306 may also help prevent staple tips from sticking to pockets 10310, 10330 during forming, as discussed with more details below.

[00499] With reference again to Figure 70, the pocket forming surfaces 10310, 10330 comprise an inlet zone forming surface 10311, 10331, an exit zone forming surface 10312, 10332, respectively. In that case, the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the inlet zone forming surfaces 10311, 10331 cover is greater than the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the outlet zone forming surfaces 10312, 10332 cover. . As a result, the entry zone forming surfaces 10311, 10331 do not transition to the exit zone forming surfaces 10312, 10332 at the center of each pocket 10310, 10330. Instead, the transition points where the zones The entry zone forming surfaces 10311, 10331 transition to the exit zone forming surfaces 10312, 10332 are closer to the bridge portion 10305. The transitions between the entry zone forming surfaces 10311, 10331 and the exit zone forming surfaces 10312, 10332 define a valley, or recess, of each pocket 10310, 10330. The valleys of the formation pockets 10310, 10330 define a portion, or segment, of the formation surfaces that have the greatest vertical distance from the flat surface 10307. that, when using the term "entry", "entry" corresponds to the intended "entry" feature where a staple tip is intended to enter a staple pocket during the staple firing process. Similarly, when the term "egress" is used, "egress" corresponds to the intended "egress" feature where a staple tip is intended to exit a staple pocket during the staple firing process.

[00500] With reference to Figure 71, the forming surfaces of each pocket 10310, 10330 comprise more than one radius of curvature. Specifically, the pocket 10310 comprises an entry radius of curvature 10317 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 10311 and an exit radius of curvature 10318 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 10312. 10330 comprises an entry radius of curvature 10337 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 10331 and an exit radius of curvature 10338 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 10332. In that case, the entry radius of curvature 10317 .

[00501] The outer edges of each pocket 10310, 10330, also called inlet edges because they define the beginning of the inlet zone forming surfaces 10311, 10331, comprise an inlet width which is the greatest width of the inlet forming surfaces each pocket 10310, 10330. The inner edges of each pocket 10310, 10330, also called exit edges because they define the end of the exit zone forming surfaces 10312, 10332, comprise an exit width that is the narrowest section of the forming surfaces of each pocket 10310, 10330. In many cases, the exit widths are greater than the largest diameter clamp configured for use with the forming pocket arrangement 10300. The transitions between the entry and exit zones comprise a transition width that is less than the input width but greater than the output width. Figure 73 is a cross-sectional view of distal formation pocket 10330 taken along line 73-73 in Figure 70. This view illustrates the valley, or recess, of distal formation pocket 10330. This valley, or recess, it is also the transition between the entry zone forming surface 10331 and the exit zone forming surface 10332. Figure 72 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the distal forming pocket 10330 taken along line 72-72 in the Figure 70 that is located within the exit zone forming surface 10332 of the forming pocket 10330. Figure 74 is a cross-sectional view of the distal forming pocket 10330 taken along line 74-74 in Figure 70 that is within the entry zone forming surface 10332 of distal forming pocket 10330.

[00502] Figures 75-80 depict a forming pocket arrangement 10400 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. The formation pocket arrangement 10400 comprises a proximal formation pocket 10410 and a distal formation pocket 10430 defined on a flat or tissue contacting surface 10407 of an anvil 10401. The pockets 10410, 10430 are aligned along a longitudinal axis of pocket 10403 of forming pocket arrangement 10400. A staple is intended to be formed along the axis of pocket 10403 by forming pocket arrangement 10400 when deployed from a staple cartridge. Referring to Figures 76 and 77, forming pocket arrangement 10400 further comprises a bridging portion 10405 defined between forming pockets 10410 and 10430. In that case, bridging portion 10405 is recessed relative to flat surface 10407 of the anvil 10401. The bridge portion 10405 comprises a bridge width "W" and a bridge depth "D". The bridge depth "D" is the distance that the bridge portion 10405 is recessed relative to the flat surface 10407. The forming pocket arrangement 10400 comprises a center "C" defined within the bridge portion 10405. Formation pocket 10400 is bilaterally symmetrical with respect to bridge portion 10405, bilaterally symmetrical with respect to pocket axis 10403, and rotationally symmetrical with respect to center "C".

[00503] The formation pocket arrangement 10400 further comprises a pair of primary side walls 10408 extending from the flat surface 10407 of the anvil 10401 towards the pockets 10410, 10430 and the bridge portion 10405. Specifically, each side wall 10408 shares a border with only a portion of each pocket, as discussed in more detail below. The primary sidewalls 10408 are angled at angle θ4 relative to the flat surface 10407 of the anvil 10401.

[00504] Each forming pocket 10410, 10430 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls, wherein each pocket sidewall of each pair comprises distinct sidewall portions. For example, proximal formation pocket 10410 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls, each comprising distinct sidewall portions 10413 and 10416. Sidewall portions 10413 may be referred to as inlet sidewall portions and sidewalls 10416 may be called exit sidewall portions. Similarly, distal shaping pocket 10430 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls, each comprising distinct sidewall portions 10433 and 10436, respectively. Sidewall portions 10433 may be called inlet sidewall portions and sidewall portions 10436 may be called outlet sidewall portions. The pocket side walls 10413, 10416, 10433, 10436 are configured to direct the staple tips and staple legs toward the forming surfaces of the pockets 10410, 10430 should the staple tips and/or staple legs initially reach the sidewalls 10413, 10416, 10433, 10436 of the pockets 10410, 10430.

[00505] The sidewall portions 10413 extend from the flat surface 10407 towards the formation surface of the proximal formation pocket 10410. The sidewall portions 10413 make the transition to the formation surface through a transition feature 10414. A further transitional feature 10417 is provided between the distinct sidewall portions 10413 and 10416 to provide the distinct sidewall features. Transition features 10414, 10417 may comprise rounded and/or chamfered surfaces, for example. Transition features 10414, 10417 may instead comprise a distinct border. Sidewall portions 10416 share an edge with primary sidewalls 10408 and extend from primary sidewalls 10408 toward the forming surface of proximal forming pocket 10410. Sidewalls 10413 and 10416 are oriented at different angles in with respect to the axis of the pocket 10403. In this case, the sidewall portion 10413 is at least substantially parallel with respect to the axis of the pocket 10403, and the sidewall portion 10416 is positioned at angle θ3 with respect to the axis of the pocket 10403. The phrase "substantially parallel" refers to an orientation that is nearly parallel to, or parallel to, the axis of pocket 10403.

[00506] The sidewall portions 10433 extend from the flat surface 10407 towards the formation surface of the distal formation pocket 10430. The sidewall portions 10433 make the transition to the formation surface through a transition feature 10434. A further transitional feature 10437 is provided between the distinct sidewall portions 10433 and 10436 to provide the distinct sidewall features. Transition features 10434, 10437 can comprise rounded and/or chamfered surfaces, for example. Transition features 10434, 10437 may instead comprise a distinct border. Sidewall portions 10436 share an edge with primary sidewalls 10408 and extend from primary sidewalls 10408 toward the forming surface of distal forming pocket 10430. Sidewalls 10433 and 10436 are oriented at different angles in with respect to the axis of the pocket 10403. In this case, the sidewall portion 10433 is at least substantially parallel with respect to the axis of the pocket 10403, and the sidewall portion 10436 is positioned at angle θ3 with respect to the axis of the pocket 10403. The phrase "substantially parallel" refers to an orientation that is nearly parallel to, or parallel to, the axis of pocket 10403.

[00507] Now referring to Figures 78-80, the side wall portions 10413, 10433 are positioned at an angle to the flat surface 10407 of the anvil 10401 at a different angle than the side wall portions 10416, 10436. For the sake of brevity, only the configuration of the sidewalls of the distal training pocket 10430 will be discussed; however, it should be noted that due to the symmetry of the pockets 10410, 10430 discussed above, the proximal formation pocket 10410 comprises a symmetrical configuration to the distal formation pocket 10430. Beginning with Figure 80, the inlet sidewall portions 10433 are positioned at an angle to the flat surface 10407 at angle θ1. Referring now to Figure 79, the outlet sidewall portions 10436 are positioned at an angle to the flat surface 10407 at angle θ2. Angle θ2 is greater than angle θ1. Angle θ2 is between about 60 degrees and about 90 degrees, for example. In many cases, the angle θ2 is around 80 degrees. In other cases, the angle θ2 is around 90 degrees. As can be seen from the figures, the outlet sidewall portions 10436 are more aggressively positioned at an angle, or more vertical, than the inlet sidewall portions 10433. Collectively, the sidewall portions 10433, 10436 are positioned at an angle with respect to the flat surface 10407 of the anvil 10401 to direct, or channel, the legs and/or staple tips of the staples toward the forming surface of the distal pocket 10430 and further control the formation of the legs, as discussed in more detail below. Furthermore, collectively, primary sidewalls 10408 and pocket sidewalls 10413, 10416, 10433, 10436 can provide a funnel-like configuration for corresponding staple tips.

[00508] In addition to the above, transition edges 10414, 10434 provide a transition feature between pocket sidewall portions 10413, 10416, 10433, 10436 and forming surfaces. The edges 10414, 10434 comprise a first end where the edges 10414, 10434 meet the outer ends of the pockets 10410, 10430 and a second end where the edges 10414, 10434 meet the bridge portion 10405, or the inner ends of the pockets 10410, 10430 Edge features 10414, 10434 can help prevent staple tips from sticking to pockets 10410, 10430 during forming, as discussed in more detail below.

[00509] The pocket forming surfaces 10410, 10430 comprise an inlet zone forming surface 10411, 10431 and an outlet zone forming surface 10412, 10432, respectively. In that case, the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the inlet zone forming surfaces 10411, 10431 cover is greater than the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the outlet zone forming surfaces 10412, 10432 cover. . As a result, the entry zone forming surfaces 10411, 10431 do not transition to the exit zone forming surfaces 10412, 10432 at the center of each pocket 10410, 10430. Instead, the transition points where the zones The input zone forming surfaces 10411, 10431 transition to the output zones 10412, 10432 are closer to the bridge portion 10405. The transitions between the input zone forming surfaces 10411, 10431 and the output zone forming surfaces 10412, 10432 define a valley, or recess, of each pocket 10410, 10430. The valleys of formation pockets 10410, 10430 define a portion, or segment, of the formation surfaces that have the greatest vertical distance from the flat surface 10407. the transition between the inlet zone forming surfaces 10411, 10431 and the exit zone forming surfaces 10412, 10432 occurs at the transition features 10417, 10437.

[00510] With reference to Figure 77, the forming surfaces of each pocket 10410, 10430 comprise more than one radius of curvature. Specifically, the pocket 10410 comprises an entry radius of curvature 10418 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 10411 and an exit radius of curvature 10419 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 10412. Similarly, the pocket 10430 comprises an entry radius of curvature 10438 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 10431 and an exit radius of curvature 10439 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 10432. In that case, the entry radius of curvature 10418 .

[00511] The outer edges of each pocket 10410, 10430, also called entry edges because they define the beginning of the entry zone forming surfaces 10411, 10431, comprise an entry width that is the greatest width of the entry zone forming surfaces each pocket 10410, 10430. The inner edges of each pocket 10410, 10430, also called exit edges because they define the end of the exit zone forming surfaces 10412, 10432, comprise an exit width that is narrower than the entry width of the forming surfaces of each pocket 10410, 10430. The transitions between the entry and exit zones comprise a transition width that is less than the entry width. In many cases, the transition width is similar to the output width (Figure 76). The exit zone forming surfaces 10412, 10413 comprise the narrowest sections of the forming surfaces of each pocket 10410, 10430. In this case, the narrowest section is the valley, or recess, of each pocket 10410, 10430. In some cases, the valley comprises a greater width than the larger diameter staple configured for use with the training pocket arrangement 10400. Figure 79 is a cross-sectional view of the distal training pocket 10430 taken along line 79-79 in Figure 76. This view is taken along a section of the inlet zone forming surface 10431 and illustrates the transition of each distinct sidewall portion 10433, 10436. Figure 78 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the forming pocket distal 10430 taken along line 78-78 in Figure 76 which is located within the exit zone forming surface 10432 of forming pocket 10430. Figure 80 is a cross-sectional view of distal forming pocket 10430 taken along of line 80-80 in Figure 76 that is within the entry zone forming surface 10432 of the distal forming pocket 10430.

[00512] Figures 81-86 depict a forming pocket arrangement 10500 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. The formation pocket arrangement 10500 comprises a proximal formation pocket 10510 and a distal formation pocket 10530 defined on a flat or tissue contacting surface 10507 of an anvil 10501. The pockets 10510, 10530 are aligned along a Longitudinal axis of pocket 10503 of forming pocket arrangement 10500. A staple is intended to be formed along the axis of pocket 10503 by forming pocket arrangement 10500 when deployed from a staple cartridge. Referring primarily to Figures 82 and 83, forming pocket arrangement 10500 further comprises a bridging portion 10505 defined between forming pockets 10510 and 10530. In that case, bridging portion 10505 is recessed with respect to flat surface 10507 of the anvil 10501. The bridge portion 10505 comprises a bridge width "W" and a bridge depth "D". Bridge portion 10505 is substantially V-shaped with a rounded bottom portion. The bridge depth "D" is the distance the bottom portion 10505 is recessed from the flat surface 10507. The forming pocket arrangement 10500 comprises a center "C" defined within the bridge portion 10505. Formation pocket 10500 is bilaterally symmetrical with respect to bridge portion 10505, bilaterally symmetrical with respect to pocket axis 10503, and rotationally symmetrical with respect to center "C".

[00513] The formation pocket arrangement 10500 further comprises a pair of primary side walls 10508 extending from the flat surface 10507 of the anvil 10501 towards the pockets 10510, 10530 and the bridge portion 10505. The primary side walls 10508 are angled at angle θ1 relative to flat surface 10507 of anvil 10501. Primary sidewalls 10508 comprise inner edges that are curved, or contoured, relative to pockets 10510, 10530.

[00514] The training pocket 10510 comprises a pair of pocket side walls 10513 and the training pocket 10530 comprises a pair of pocket side walls 10533. The pocket side walls 10513, 10533 comprise curved or contoured profiles and are configured to directing the staple tips and legs of the staples towards the forming surfaces of the pockets 10510, 10530, as well as helping to control the process of forming the staples. Sidewalls 10513, 10533 extend from primary sidewalls 10508 and flat surface 10507 towards the forming surfaces of each pocket 10510, 10530. Sidewalls 10513, 10533 are configured to encourage staple tips and/or the legs of the staples forming along the pocket axis 10503 as the staples are formed against the pocket forming surfaces 10510, 10530. Collectively, the primary sidewalls 10508 and the pocket sidewalls 10513, 10533 cooperate to taper corresponding staple tips toward the lateral center of each pocket 10510, 10530. Discussed in more detail below, sidewalls 10513, 10533 comprise inlet portions and outlet portions where the inlet portions comprise a lesser plumbing configuration aggressive than the outgoing portions.

[00515] Referring again to Figure 82, the pocket forming surfaces 10510, 10530 comprise an inlet zone forming surface 10511, 10531, an exit zone forming surface 10512, 10532, respectively. The entry zone forming surfaces 10511, 10531 may mate with the less aggressive channeling portions of the side walls 10513, 10533. Similarly, the exit region forming surfaces 10512, 10532 may mate with the narrower channeling portions. aggressive sides of the sidewalls 10513, 10533. The pockets 10510, 10530 further comprise a forming groove, or guide, 10515, 10535, also called a tip control channel, which extends along the entire longitudinal length of each pocket 10510, 10530 and centrally positioned relative to the outer lateral edges of pockets 10510, 10530. Grooves 10515, 10535 are narrower on the outer longitudinal edges of pockets 10510, 10530 than the inner longitudinal edges of pockets 10510, 10530. Grooves 10515, 10535 meet meet at the bridge portion 10505 to encourage the staple tips, and staple legs, to contact each other during the forming process, as discussed in more detail below. In some cases, grooves defined in the forming surfaces of forming pockets can have a similar effect on staple formation as more aggressively angled exit walls and/or narrowly configured exit walls.

[00516] With reference to Figure 83, the forming surfaces of each pocket 10510, 10530 comprise more than one radius of curvature. Specifically, the pocket 10510 comprises an entry radius of curvature 10517 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 10511 and an exit radius of curvature 10518 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 10512. Similarly, the pocket 10530 comprises an entry radius of curvature 10537 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 10531 and an exit radius of curvature 10538 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 10532. In that case, the entry radius of curvature 10517 .

[00517] Now referring to Figures 84-86, the outer longitudinal edges of each pocket 10510, 10530 are called entry edges because they define the beginning of the entry zone forming surfaces 10511, 10531. The entry edges comprise a entry width which is the greatest width of the forming surfaces of each pocket 10510, 10530. The inner edges of each pocket 10510, 10530 are called the exit edges because they define the end of the exit zone forming surfaces 10512, 10532. The exit edges comprise an exit width, also called the "W" bridge width, which is the narrowest section of the forming surfaces of each pocket 10510, 10530. The transitions between the entry and exit zones comprise a width transition that is less than the input width but greater than the output width. Figure 85 is a cross-sectional view of distal formation pocket 10530 taken along line 85-85 in Figure 82. This view is taken near the valley, or recess, of distal formation pocket 10530. This valley, or recess, is also the transition between the inlet zone forming surface 10531 and the outlet zone forming surface 10532. In several cases, the transition between the inlet and outlet zones does not occur in the valley, or recess, of the pocket. Figure 84 illustrates a cross-sectional view of distal shaping pocket 10530 taken along line 84-84 in Figure 82 that is located within the forming surface of exit zone 10532 of shaping pocket 10530. Figure 86 is a Cross-sectional view of distal shaping pocket 10530 taken along line 86-86 in Figure 82 which is within the entry zone forming surface 10532 of distal shaping pocket 10530. Sidewalls 10533 are illustrated in this figure as linear , or at least substantially linear, and are angled at an angle θ2 relative to the flat surface 10507. The angle θ2 is greater than the angle θ1.

[00518] Groove widths may be narrower than the larger diameter staple that is configured for use with the formation pocket arrangement and greater than the smaller diameter staple that is configured for use with the formation pocket arrangement. In other cases, the groove width may be narrower than the smaller diameter staple configured for use with the forming pocket arrangement. In still other cases, the width of the groove may be wider than the larger diameter staple configured for use with the forming pocket arrangement. Furthermore, the grooves defined in the forming pockets may comprise multiple widths corresponding to the entry zone and the exit zone, accordingly. For example, a portion of the groove residing in the entry zone may comprise a width that is less than the width of a portion of the groove residing in the exit zone. In another example, a portion of the groove residing in the entry zone may comprise a width that is greater than the width of a portion of the groove residing in the exit zone. In other cases, a groove that resides in only one of the zones may span multiple widths.

[00519] Figures 87-92 depict a forming pocket arrangement 10600 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. Formation pocket arrangement 10600 is similar in many respects to formation pocket arrangement 10100. Formation pocket arrangement 10600 comprises a proximal formation pocket 10610 and a distal formation pocket 10630 defined on a flat, or abutting, surface. with fabric 10607 from an anvil 10601. The pockets 10610, 10630 are aligned along a longitudinal axis of the pocket 10603 of the forming pocket arrangement 10600. A staple is intended to be formed along the axis of the pocket 10603 by the formation pocket arrangement 10600 when deployed from a staple cartridge. Referring to Figure 88, forming pocket arrangement 10600 further comprises a bridging portion 10605 defined between forming pockets 10610 and 10630. In that case, bridging portion 10605 is part of flat surface 10607 of anvil 10601. bridge 10605 comprises an inner bridge width "W1" and an outer bridge width "W2". The inner bridge width "W1" is less than the outer bridge width "W2". Formation pocket arrangement 10600 comprises a center "C" defined within bridge portion 10605. Formation pocket arrangement 10600 is bilaterally symmetrical with respect to bridge portion 10605, bilaterally symmetrical with respect to pocket axis 10603, and rotationally symmetric about the center "C".

[00520] The training pocket 10610 comprises a pair of pocket side walls 10613 and the training pocket 10630 comprises a pair of pocket side walls 10633. The pocket side walls 10613, 10633 are configured to direct the ends and legs of the staples towards the forming surfaces of the pockets 10610, 10630 if the ends of the staples and/or the legs of the staples initially reach the side walls 10613, 10633 of the pockets 10610, 10630. Referring to Figures 90-92, the side walls 10613, 10633 extend from the flat surface 10607 of the anvil 10601 toward the forming surfaces of each of the pockets 10610, 10630. The sidewalls 10613, 10633 of the forming pockets 10610, 10630 are positioned at an angle to the surface plane 10607 of anvil 10601 at angle θ to drive, or channel, the legs and/or ends of a staple toward the forming surfaces. The sidewalls 10613, 10633 are configured to encourage the staple tips and/or the legs of the staples to form along the axis of the pocket 10603 as the staples are formed against the pocket forming surfaces 10610, 10630.

[00521] Again referring to Figure 87, the pocket forming surfaces 10610, 10630 comprise an inlet zone forming surface 10611, 10631, an outlet zone forming surface 10612, 10632, and a groove, or channel , 10615, 10635 defined on the forming surfaces, respectively. In that case, the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the inlet zone forming surfaces 10611, 10631 cover is equal to the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the outlet zone forming surfaces 10612, 10632 cover. As a result, the entry zone forming surfaces 10611, 10631 transition to the exit zone forming surfaces 10612, 10632 at the center of each pocket 10610, 10630. The transitions between the entry zone forming surfaces 10611 , 10631 and exit zone forming surfaces 10612, 10632 define a valley, or recess, of each pocket 10610, 10630. The forming pocket valleys 10610, 10630 define a portion, or segment, of the forming surfaces having the greatest vertical distance from flat surface 10607.

[00522] The forming surfaces also comprise transition features 10616, 10636 surrounding the grooves 10615, 10635, respectively, as well as transition features 10617, 10637 on the inner and outer longitudinal edges of the pockets 10610, 10630, respectively. In this case transition features 10616, 10617, 10636, 10637 are rounded, however transition features 10616, 10617, 10636, 10637 may comprise any suitable profile in addition to, or instead of, a rounded edge. Transition features 10616, 10636 provide a transition between the grooves 10615, 10635 and the forming surfaces of each pocket 10610, 10630. Towards the center region of each pocket 10610, 10630, transition features 10616, 10636 can provide a transition between grooves 10615, 10635 and sidewalls 10613, 10633. Transition features 10617, 10637 provide a transition between forming surfaces and planar surface 10607. Transition features 10617, 10637 comprise extension portions 10618, 10638 positioned at the proximal and distal ends of each groove 10615, 10635.

[00523] The valleys of the formation pockets 10610, 10630 also define the narrowest portion of the formation surfaces of each pocket 10610, 10630. Figure 91 is a cross-sectional view of the distal formation pocket 10630, taken along the line 91-91 in Figure 87. This view illustrates the valley, or recess, of distal forming pocket 10630. The outer longitudinal edges of each pocket 10610, 10630 define the widest portion of the forming surfaces of each pocket 10610, 10630. Figure 90 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the distal shaping pocket 10630 taken along line 90-90 in Figure 87 that is within the forming surface of the exit zone 10632 of the distal shaping pocket 10630. Figure 92 is a view in cross section of distal shaping pocket 10630 taken along line 92-92 in Figure 87 which is within the forming surface of the entry zone 10632 of distal shaping pocket 10630.

[00524] Figures 93-97 depict a forming pocket arrangement 10700 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. Training pocket arrangement 10700 is similar in many respects to training pocket arrangement 10600. Training pocket arrangement 10700 comprises a proximal training pocket 10710 and a distal training pocket 10730 defined on a flat, or mating, surface. with fabric 10707 from an anvil 10701. The pockets 10710, 10730 are aligned along a longitudinal axis of the pocket 10703 of the forming pocket arrangement 10700. A staple is intended to be formed along the axis of the pocket 10703 by the formation pocket arrangement 10700 when deployed from a staple cartridge. Referring to Figure 94, forming pocket arrangement 10700 further comprises a bridging portion 10705 defined between forming pockets 10710 and 10730. In that case, bridging portion 10705 is part of flat surface 10707 of anvil 10701. bridge 10705 comprises an inner bridge width "W1" and an outer bridge width "W2". The inner bridge width "W1" is less than the outer bridge width "W2". Formation pocket arrangement 10700 comprises a center "C" defined within bridge portion 10705. Formation pocket arrangement 10700 is bilaterally symmetrical with respect to bridge portion 10705, bilaterally symmetrical with respect to pocket axis 10703, and rotationally symmetric about the center "C".

[00525] The formation pocket 10710 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls 10713 and the formation pocket 10730 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls 10733. The pocket sidewalls 10713, 10733 are configured to direct the ends of the staples and the staple legs towards the pocket forming surfaces 10710, 10730 if the staple tips and/or the staple legs initially reach the sidewalls 10713, 10733 of the pockets 10710, 10730. Referring to Figures 95-97, the side walls 10713, 10733 extend from the flat surface 10707 of the anvil 10701 towards the forming surfaces of each of the pockets 10710, 10730. The side walls 10713, 10733 of the forming pockets 10710, 10730 are positioned at an angle to each other to the flat surface 10707 of the anvil 10701 at angle θ to direct, or channel, the legs and/or ends of the staple toward the forming surfaces. The sidewalls 10713, 10733 are configured to encourage the staple tips and/or the legs of the staples to form along the axis of the pocket 10703 as the staples are formed against the pocket forming surfaces 10710, 10730.

[00526] Again referring to Figure 93, the pocket forming surfaces 10710, 10730 comprise an inlet zone forming surface 10711, 10731, an outlet zone forming surface 10712, 10732, and a groove, or channel , 10715, 10735 defined on the forming surfaces, respectively. In that case, the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the inlet zone forming surfaces 10711, 10731 cover is equal to the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the outlet zone forming surfaces 10712, 10732 cover. As a result, the entry zone forming surfaces 10711, 10731 transition to the exit zone forming surfaces 10712, 10732 at the center of each pocket 10710, 10730. The transitions between the entry zone forming surfaces 10711 , 10731 and exit zone forming surfaces 10712, 10732 define a valley, or recess, of each pocket 10710, 10730. The forming pocket valleys 10710, 10730 define a portion, or segment, of the forming surfaces having the greatest vertical distance from flat surface 10707.

[00527] The grooves 10715, 10735, which are aligned with the geometric axis of the pocket 10703, are defined only within a portion of each pocket 10710, 10730. In this case, the grooves 10715, 10735 are positioned completely within the forming surfaces of the output zone 10712, 10732. In other instances, the grooves may be positioned entirely within the input zones. Grooves 10715, 10735 comprise ridges 10716, 10736 which provide a transition between grooves 10715, 10735 and their respective forming surfaces. Edges 10716, 10736 comprise a rounded profile, however, flat, curved and/or irregular profiles are contemplated, for example. The rounded profile can help prevent staple tip sticking, as discussed in more detail below. Grooves 10715, 10735 extend from a central portion of its forming surface towards bridging portion 10705 of pocket arrangement 10700. Grooves 10715, 10735 extend into bridging portion 10705 of pocket array 10700 In other words, grooves 10715, 10735 extend beyond the inner longitudinal edges 10717, 10737 of each pocket 10710, 10730.

[00528] With reference to Figure 95, groove 10735 and an "S" clamp are illustrated. Figure 95 is a cross-sectional view of the distal forming pocket 10730 taken along line 95-95 in Figure 93. This cross-sectional view is taken within the exit zone forming surface 10732. The staple diameter "S" is greater than the width, or diameter, of groove 10735. However, the clamp diameter "S" is less than the width of groove 10735 plus transition edges 10736. This prevents the body of clamp "S" from contact the bottom of the groove 10735. This configuration can help maintain minimal, double tangential contact between the "S" clamp as it forms within the exit zone forming surface 10732 and exits the distal pocket 10730. Minimal contact between the staple and pocket can help prevent staple tip sticking and provide a more continuously formed staple, as discussed in more detail below. Staples used with this forming pocket arrangement may comprise a diameter greater than the width of the groove 10735 plus the width of the edges 10736. In that case, among others, a similar double tangential contact would occur.

[00529] The valleys of the formation pockets 10710, 10730 also define the narrowest portion of the formation surfaces of each pocket 10710, 10730. Figure 96 is a cross-sectional view of the distal formation pocket 10730, taken along the line 96-96 in Figure 93. This view illustrates the valley, or recess, of distal forming pocket 10730. The outer longitudinal edges of each pocket 10710, 10730 define the widest portion of the forming surfaces of each pocket 10710, 10730. Figure 97 is a cross-sectional view of distal training pocket 10730 taken along line 97-97 in Figure 93 that is within the entry zone forming surface 10732 of distal training pocket 10730.

[00530] Figures 98-102 depict a forming pocket arrangement 10800 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. Formation pocket arrangement 10800 is similar in many respects to formation pocket arrangement 10600. Formation pocket arrangement 10800 comprises a proximal formation pocket 10810 and a distal formation pocket 10830 defined on a flat, or abutting, surface. with the fabric 10807 of an anvil 10801. The pockets 10810, 10830 are aligned along a longitudinal axis of the pocket 10803 of the forming pocket arrangement 10800. However, a staple is not intended to be formed along the axis of the anvil 10800. pocket 10803 when deployed from a staple cartridge. Rather, a clip is intended to be formed off the axis of pocket 10803. Referring to Figure 98, formation pocket arrangement 10800 further comprises a bridging portion 10805 defined between formation pockets 10810 and 10830. In this case, the bridge portion 10805 is part of the flat surface 10807 of the anvil 10801. The bridge portion 10805 comprises an inner bridge width "W1" and an outer bridge width "W2". The inner bridge width "W1" is less than the outer bridge width "W2". Formation pocket arrangement 10800 comprises a center "C" defined within bridge portion 10805. Formation pocket arrangement 10800 is bilaterally asymmetric with respect to bridge portion 10805, bilaterally asymmetric with respect to pocket axis 10803, and rotationally symmetric about the center "C".

[00531] The formation pocket 10810 comprises a pair of pocket side walls 10813 and the formation pocket 10830 comprises a pair of pocket side walls 10833. The pocket side walls 10813, 10833 are configured to direct the ends of the staples and the staple legs towards the pocket forming surfaces 10810, 10830 if the staple tips and/or the staple legs initially reach the sidewalls 10813, 10833 of the pockets 10810, 10830. Referring to Figures 100-102, the side walls 10813, 10833 extend from the flat surface 10807 of the anvil 10801 toward the forming surfaces of each of the pockets 10810, 10830. The side walls 10813, 10833 of the forming pockets 10810, 10830 are positioned at an angle to each other to the flat surface 10807 of the anvil 10801 at angle θ to direct, or channel, the legs and/or ends of the staple toward the forming surfaces. Sidewalls 10813, 10833 are configured to push, or guide, the staple tips and/or staple legs toward the pocket forming surfaces 10810, 10830.

[00532] Again referring to Figure 98, the pocket forming surfaces 10810, 10830 comprise an inlet zone forming surface 10811, 10831, an outlet zone forming surface 10812, 10832, and a groove, or channel , 10815, 10835 defined on the forming surfaces, respectively. In that case, the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the inlet zone forming surfaces 10811, 10831 cover is equal to the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the outlet zone forming surfaces 10812, 10832 cover. As a result, the entry zone forming surfaces 10811, 10831 transition to the exit zone forming surfaces 10812, 10832 at the center of each pocket 10810, 10830. The transitions between the entry zone forming surfaces 10811 , 10831 and exit zone forming surfaces 10812, 10832 define a valley, or recess, of each pocket 10810, 10830. The forming pocket valleys 10810, 10830 define a portion, or segment, of the forming surfaces having the greatest vertical distance from flat surface 10807.

[00533] The forming surfaces also comprise transition features 10816, 10836 surrounding the grooves 10815, 10835, respectively, as well as transition features 10817, 10837 on the inner and outer longitudinal edges of each pocket 10810, 10830. In this case, the features transition features 10816, 10817, 10836, 10837 are rounded, however, transition features 10816, 10817, 10836, 10837 may comprise any suitable profile in addition to, or instead of, a rounded edge. Transition features 10816, 10836 provide a transition between grooves 10815, 10835 and pocket forming surfaces 10810, 10830, respectively. Towards the center region of pockets 10810, 10830, transition features 10816, 10836 can provide a transition between grooves 10815, 10835 and side walls 10813, 10833. Transition features 10817, 10837 provide a transition between the surfaces of formation and planar surface 10807. Transition features 10817, 10837 comprise extension portions positioned at the proximal and distal ends of grooves 10815, 10835.

[00534] The grooves 10815, 10835 are positioned at an angle to the geometric axis of the pocket 10803. Each of the grooves 10815, 10835 comprises an entry portion and an exit portion where the entry portion of the groove 10815 and the Groove entry 10835 are on opposite sides of pocket axis 10803 and groove exit portion 10815 and groove exit portion 10835 are on opposite sides of pocket axis 10803. This configuration encourages the legs to form apart each other. For example, instead of head-to-head contact between a pair of matching legs, the legs are configured to form an offset relative to and on opposite sides of the axis of pocket 10803.

[00535] The valleys of the formation pockets 10810, 10830 also define the narrowest portion of the formation surfaces of each pocket 10810, 10830. Figure 101 is a cross-sectional view of the distal formation pocket 10830, taken along the line 101-101 in Figure 98. This view illustrates the valley, or recess, of distal forming pocket 10830. The outer longitudinal edges of each pocket 10810, 10830 define the widest portion of the forming surfaces of each pocket 10810, 10830. Figure 100 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the distal shaping pocket 10830 taken along line 100-100 in Figure 98 that is within the forming surface of the exit zone 10832 of the distal shaping pocket 10830. Figure 102 is a view in cross section of distal shaping pocket 10830 taken along line 102-102 in Figure 98 which is within the forming surface of the entry zone 10832 of distal shaping pocket 10830.

[00536] Figures 103-107 depict a forming pocket arrangement 10900 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. Formation pocket arrangement 10900 may be similar to formation pocket arrangement 10200 in many respects. The formation pocket arrangement 10900 comprises a proximal formation pocket 10910 and a distal formation pocket 10930 defined on a flat or tissue contacting surface 10907 of an anvil 10901. The pockets 10910, 10930 are aligned along a Longitudinal axis of pocket 10903 of forming pocket arrangement 10900. A staple is intended to be formed along the axis of pocket 10903 by forming pocket arrangement 10900 when deployed from a staple cartridge. 103 and 104, the forming pocket arrangement 10900 further comprises a bridging portion 10905 defined between forming pockets 10910 and 10930. In that case, the bridging portion 10905 is recessed relative to the flat surface 10907 of the anvil 10901. The bridge portion 10905 comprises a first bridge width "W1" and a second bridge width "W2". The first width "W1" is greater than the second width "W2". The bridge portion also comprises a bridge depth "D". The bridge depth "D" is the distance that the bridge portion 10905 is recessed from the flat surface 10907. The forming pocket arrangement 10900 comprises a center "C" defined within the bridge portion 10905. Formation pocket 10900 is bilaterally symmetrical with respect to bridge portion 10905, bilaterally symmetrical with respect to pocket axis 10903, and rotationally symmetrical with respect to center "C".

[00537] The formation pocket arrangement 10900 further comprises a pair of primary side walls 10908 extending from the flat surface 10907 of the anvil 10901 towards the pockets 10910, 10930 and the bridge portion 10905. The primary side walls 10908 are angled at angle θ2 relative to the flat surface 10907 of the anvil 10901. The forming pocket arrangement 10900 further comprises edge features 10915, 10935 that provide a transition feature between the outer edges of the pockets 10910, 10930 and the surface flat 10907 and between the longitudinal edges of the pockets 10910, 10930 and the primary side walls 10908. These edges 10915, 10935 may be rounded and/or chamfered, for example. Edge features 10915, 10935 can help prevent staple tips from sticking together, as discussed in more detail below.

[00538] The formation pocket 10910 comprises a pair of pocket side walls 10913 and the formation pocket 10930 comprises a pair of pocket side walls 10933. The pocket side walls 10913, 10933 are configured to direct the ends of the staples and the legs of the staples towards the forming surfaces of the pockets 10910, 10930 if the tips of the staples and/or the legs of the staples initially reach the side walls 10913, 10933 of the pockets 10910, 10930. The side walls 10913, 10933 extend to from the transition edges 10915, 10935 towards the forming surfaces of each pocket 10910, 10930. The side walls 10913, 10933 of the forming pockets 10910, 10930 are positioned at an angle to the flat surface 10907 of the anvil 10901 at angle θ1 to direct, or channel, the staple legs and/or staple tips towards the pocket forming surfaces 10910, 10930. The sidewalls 10913, 10933 are configured to encourage the staple tips and/or staple legs to form along the axis of the pocket 10903 as the clips are formed against the forming surfaces of the pockets 10910, 10930. Collectively, the primary sidewalls 10908 and the pocket sidewalls 10913, 10933 can provide a configuration similar to a funnel to receive two staple tips. With reference to Figures 105 and 106, angle θ1 is greater than angle θ2.

[00539] The pockets 10910, 10930 further comprise transition edges 10914, 10934 that provide a transition feature between the sidewalls of the pocket 10913, 10933 and the forming surfaces, as discussed in more detail below. In various cases, transition edges 10914, 10934 may comprise a similar profile to transition edges 10915, 10935. In other cases, transition edges 10914, 10934 may comprise a different profile than transition edges 10915, 10935. In this case, the edges 10914, 10934 can be rounded or chamfered, for example. The edges 10914, 10934 comprise a first end where the edges 10914, 10934 meet the outer corners of the pockets 10910, 10930 and a second end where the edges 10914, 10934 approach the bridge portion 10905, or the inner ends of the pockets 10910, 10930. The edges 10914, 10934 can transition to the transition edges 10915, 10935 near the bridge portion 10905. The edge features 10914, 10934 can also help prevent the staple tips from sticking to the pockets 10910, 10930 during training, as discussed in more detail below.

[00540] Referring again to Figures 103 and 104, the pocket forming surfaces 10910, 10930 comprise an inlet zone forming surface 10911, 10931, an exit zone forming surface 10912, 10932, respectively. In that case, the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the inlet zone forming surfaces 10911, 10931 cover is greater than the amount of surface area of the forming surfaces that the outlet zone forming surfaces 10912, 10932 cover. . As a result, the entry zone forming surfaces 10911, 10931 do not transition to the exit zone forming surfaces 10912, 10932 at the center of each pocket 10910, 10930. Instead, the transition points where the zones The input zones 10911, 10931 transition to the output zones 10912, 10932 are closer to the bridge portion 10905. The transitions between the input zone forming surfaces 10911, 10931 and the output zone forming surfaces 10912, 10932 define a valley, or recess, of each pocket 10910, 10930. The valleys of formation pockets 10910, 10930 define a portion, or segment, of the formation surfaces that have the greatest vertical distance from the flat surface 10907.

[00541] With reference to Figure 104, the forming surfaces of each pocket 10910, 10930 comprise more than one radius of curvature. Specifically, the pocket 10910 comprises an entry radius of curvature 10918 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 10911 and an exit radius of curvature 10919 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 10912. Similarly, the pocket 10930 comprises an entry radius of curvature 10938 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 10931 and an exit radius of curvature 10939 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 10932. In that case, the entry radius of curvature 10918 .

[00542] The forming surfaces of each pocket 10910, 10930 also comprise grooves, or channels, 10916, 10936 defined throughout the longitudinal length of each shape pocket 10910, 10930, respectively. The forming surfaces can comprise a length of main forming surface and the grooves can comprise a length of groove that is greater than the length of the main forming surface. Grooves 10916, 10936 are configured to guide staple tips and/or legs during the forming process. The grooves also comprise transition edges 10917, 10937 which provide a transition between the forming surfaces and the grooves 10916, 10936 and between the grooves 10916, 10936 and the sidewalls 10913, 10933. The transition edges 10917, 10937 may comprise a rounded profile and/or a chamfered profile, for example. With reference to Figure 105, an "S" clamp is shown. Figure 105 is a cross-sectional view of the distal forming pocket 10930 taken along line 105-105 in Figure 103. This cross-sectional view is taken within the exit zone forming surface 10932. The staple diameter "S" is greater than groove width 10936. However, clamp diameter "S" is less than groove width 10936 plus transition edges 10937. This prevents clamp body "S" from contacting the deepest portion of the 10936 groove. This configuration can help maintain minimal contact between the "S" clamp as it forms against the forming surface. Minimal contact between the staple and pocket can help prevent staple tip sticking and provide a more continuously formed staple, as discussed in more detail below. The 10900 forming pocket arrangement is configured to be used with variable diameter staples. In one case, the clamp diameter may be less than that of the width of the grooves 10916, 10936 so that the clamp can enter and contact the deepest portion of the grooves 10916, 10936.

[00543] In addition to defining the transition points where the entry zones transition to the exit zones, the valleys of the formation pockets 10910, 10930 also define the narrowest portion of the formation surfaces of each pocket 10910, 10930. The outer longitudinal edges of each pocket 10910, 10930, also called inlet edges because they define the start of the inlet zone forming surfaces 10911, 10931, comprise an inlet width. The inner longitudinal edges of each pocket 10910, 10930, also called exit edges because they define the end of the exit zone forming surfaces 10912, 10932, comprise an exit width. In this case, the input width is greater than the output width. Also, the exit width is greater than the valley width, or the narrowest portion of the formation surfaces. Figure 106 is a cross-sectional view of distal formation pocket 10930 taken along line 106-106 in Figure 103. This view illustrates the valley, or recess, of distal formation pocket 10930. This valley, or recess, it is also the transition between the entry zone forming surface 10931 and the exit zone forming surface 10932. Figure 107 is a cross-sectional view of the distal forming pocket 10930 taken along line 107-107 in the Figure 103 that is within the entry zone forming surface 10932 of the distal forming pocket 10930.

[00544] Figures 108-112 depict a forming pocket arrangement 11000 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. The formation pocket arrangement 11000 comprises a proximal formation pocket 11010 and a distal formation pocket 11030 defined on a flat or tissue contacting surface 11007 of an anvil 11001. The pockets 11010, 11030 are aligned along a longitudinal axis of pocket 11003 of forming pocket arrangement 11000. A staple is intended to be formed in the opposite direction to the axis of pocket 11003 by forming pocket arrangement 11000 when deployed from a staple cartridge. Referring to Figures 108 and 109, forming pocket arrangement 11000 further comprises a bridging portion 11005 defined between forming pockets 11010 and 11030. In that case, bridging portion 11005 is recessed relative to flat surface 11007 of the anvil 11001 and positioned at an angle to the axis of the pocket 11003. The bridge portion 11005 comprises a bridge width "W" and a bridge depth "D". The bridge portion 11005 is substantially U-shaped with a substantially flat bottom portion. The bridge depth "D" is the distance the planar portion of the bridge portion 11005 is recessed relative to the planar surface 11007. The formation pocket arrangement 11000 comprises a center "C" defined within the bridge portion 11005. Formation pocket arrangement 11000 is bilaterally asymmetric with respect to bridge portion 11005, bilaterally asymmetric with respect to pocket axis 11003, and rotationally symmetric with respect to center "C".

[00545] The formation pocket arrangement 11000 further comprises a pair of primary side walls 11008 extending from the flat surface 11007 of the anvil 11001 towards the pockets 11010, 11030 and the bridge portion 11005. The primary side walls 11008 are angled at angle θ2 with respect to the flat surface 11007 of the anvil 11001. The primary side walls 11008 comprise inner edges that are curved, or contoured, with respect to the pockets 11010, 11030.

[00546] The training pocket 11010 comprises a pair of pocket side walls 11013 and the training pocket 11030 comprises a pair of pocket side walls 11033. The pocket side walls 11013, 11033 comprise a substantially V-shaped profile close to the entry portion and a curved, or contoured, profile. The sidewalls 11013, 11033 are configured to direct the staple tips and legs of the staples towards the forming surfaces of the pockets 11010, 11030, as well as helping to control the process of forming the staples. Sidewalls 11013, 11033 extend from primary sidewalls 11008 and flat surface 11007 toward forming surfaces of each pocket 11010, 11030. Collectively, primary sidewalls 11008 and pocket sidewalls 11013, 11033 cooperate to taper corresponding staple tips toward the forming surfaces of each pocket 11010, 11030. Discussed in more detail below, sidewalls 11013, 11033 comprise inlet portions and outlet portions where the inlet portions comprise a conduit configuration less aggressive than the outgoing portions.

[00547] Referring again to Figure 108, the pocket forming surfaces 11010, 11030 comprise an inlet zone forming surface 11011, 11031, an exit zone forming surface 11012, 11032, respectively. The entryway forming surfaces 11011, 11031 may mate with the less aggressive channeling portions of the sidewalls 11013, 11033. The entryway forming surfaces 11011, 11031 may also mate with the substantially V-shaped profile of each pocket 11010, 11030. Similarly, the exit zone forming surfaces 11012, 11032 may mate with the most aggressive channeling portions of the sidewalls 11013, 11033. The exit zone forming surfaces 11012, 11032 may also match the curved, or contoured, profile of each pocket 11010, 11030. The pockets 11010, 11030 further comprise a forming groove, or guide, 11015, 11035, respectively, which extends over the entire longitudinal length of the pockets 11010, 11030 and are positioned on only one side of the axis of the pocket 11003. The grooves 11015, 11035 are positioned at an angle to the axis of the pocket 11003. The grooves 11015, 11035 are narrower on the outer longitudinal edges of the pockets 11010, 11030 of the than the inner longitudinal edges of the pockets 11010, 11030. The grooves 11015, 11035 are also parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to each other.

[00548] With reference to Figure 109, the forming surfaces of each pocket 11010, 11030 comprise more than one radius of curvature. Specifically, the pocket 11010 comprises an entry radius of curvature 11017 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 11011 and an exit radius of curvature 11018 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 11012. Similarly, the pocket 11030 comprises an entry radius of curvature 11037 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 11031 and an exit radius of curvature 11038 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 11032. In that case, the entry radii of curvature 11017 , 11037 are greater than the output curvature radii 11018, 11038. The specific relationships between the curvature radii and various pocket features will be discussed in more detail below, along with some potential advantages and patterns of the specific relationships.

[00549] Now referring to Figures 110-112, the outer longitudinal edges of each pocket 11010, 11030 are called entry edges because they define the beginning of the entry zone forming surfaces 11011, 11031. The entry edges comprise a entry width which is the greatest width of the forming surfaces of each pocket 11010, 11030. The inner longitudinal edges of each pocket 11010, 11030 are called the exit edges because they define the end of the exit zone forming surfaces 11012, 11032 The exit edges comprise an exit width that is the narrowest section of the forming surfaces of each pocket 11010, 11030. The transitions between the entry and exit zones comprise a transition width that is less than the entry width , but greater than the output width.

[00550] Figure 110 is a cross-sectional view of the distal formation pocket 11030, taken along line 110-110 in Figure 108. This view is taken within the formation surface of the exit zone 11032 of the formation pocket 11030 The sidewall 11033 in the direction that the groove 11035 is angled is curved more and more aggressively inclined than the other sidewall 11033 to which the groove 11035 is angled in the opposite direction. Figure 111 is a cross-sectional view of distal formation pocket 11030 taken along line 111-111 in Figure 108. This view is taken near the valley, or recess, of formation pocket 11030. The curvature profile, or contour, of each sidewall 11033 is substantially similar close to this pocket section 11030, although the sidewall 11033 towards which the groove 11035 is sloped is even more and more aggressively sloped than the other sidewall 11033 with which the groove 11035 is inclined in the opposite direction. Figure 112 is a cross-sectional view of distal forming pocket 11030 taken along line 112-112 in Figure 108. This view is taken within the forming surface of the entry zone 11031 of forming pocket 11030. In this section of the pocket, Side Walls 11033 are substantially flat. However, it can be noted that the sidewall 11033 with which the groove 11035 is angled towards it is still slightly curved. The sidewall 11033 to which the groove 11035 is angled in the opposite direction is flat in that section and is positioned at angle θ1 with respect to flat surface 11007. Angle θ1 is greater than angle θ2.

[00551] Figures 113-117 depict a forming pocket arrangement 11100 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. The formation pocket arrangement 11100 comprises a proximal formation pocket 11110 and a distal formation pocket 11130 defined on a flat or tissue contacting surface 11107 of an anvil 11101. The pockets 11110, 11130 are aligned along a Longitudinal axis of pocket 11103 of formation pocket arrangement 11100. Referring to Figures 113 and 114, formation pocket arrangement 11100 further comprises a bridging portion 11105 defined between formation pockets 11110 and 11130. Bridge portion 11105 is part of flat surface 11107 of anvil 11101. Bridge portion 11105 comprises a bridge width "W". Formation pocket arrangement 11100 comprises a center "C" defined within bridge portion 11105. Formation pocket arrangement 11100 is bilaterally symmetrical with respect to bridge portion 11105, bilaterally asymmetrical with respect to pocket axis 11103, and rotationally symmetric about the center "C".

[00552] Each forming pocket 11110, 11130 comprises a threaded edge 11114, 11134, respectively, which extends around the perimeter of each pocket 11110, 11130. The edges 11114, 11134 provide a curved transition between the flat surface 11107 and the pockets 11110, 11130. Specifically, edges 11114, 11134 transition from flat surface 11107 into pocket side walls 11113A, 11113B of pocket 11110 and pocket side walls 11133A, 11133B of pocket 11130. Edges 11114, 1113 4 also transition the flat surface 11107 into the inlet and outlet portions of the forming surfaces of each pocket 11110, 11130.

[00553] The side walls 11113A, 11133A are positioned at an angle to the geometric axis of the pocket 11103 at angle θ. Sidewalls 11113B, 11133B comprise distinct sidewall portions 11121, 11122, 11123 and 11141, 11142, 11143, respectively. The sidewall portions 11121, 11141 are angled to the longitudinal axis of the pocket 11103 at an angle different from the angle at which the sidewall portions 11113A, 11133A are angled to the longitudinal axis of the pocket 11103 Sidewall portions 11122, 11142 are parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to axis 11103. Sidewall portions 11123, 11143 are parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to sidewalls 11113A, 11133A. The sidewalls 11113A, 11113B, 11133A, 11133B are configured to direct the staple tips and staple legs toward the forming surfaces of the pockets 11110, 11130, as well as helping to control the staple formation process.

[00554] The side walls 11113A, 11113B, 11133A, 11133B extend from the transition edges 11114, 11134 to the transition edges 11116, 11136. These edges 11116, 11136 provide a rounded or smoothed transition feature between the side walls 11113A, 11113B, 11133A, 11133B and the forming surfaces of each pocket 11110, 11130. The lower transition edges 11116, 11136 may comprise rounded and/or flat profiles.

[00555] Referring again to Figure 113, the pocket forming surfaces 11110, 11130 comprise an inlet zone forming surface 11111, 11131, an exit zone forming surface 11112, 11132, respectively. Pockets 11110, 11130 further comprise a forming or guiding groove 11115, 11135 defined in forming pockets 11110, 11130, respectively. Specifically, grooves 11115, 11135 extend parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the axis of pocket 11103 and reside only on the entry zone forming surface 11111, 11131. Pockets 11110, 11130 also comprise threaded transition edges that extend around the perimeter of the grooves 11115, 11135, respectively, to provide a smooth transition between the forming surfaces and the grooves 11115, 11135. The filleted transition edges can help ensure two-point forming contact, as discussed with more details below. Grooves 11115, 11135 also reside entirely on one side of the axis of pocket 11103.

[00556] With reference to Figure 114, the forming surfaces of each pocket 11110, 11130 comprise more than one radius of curvature. Specifically, the proximal pocket 11110 comprises an entry radius of curvature 11127 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 11111 and an exit radius of curvature 11128 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 11112. Distal pocket 11130 comprises an entry radius of curvature 11147 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 11131 and an exit radius of curvature 11148 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 11132. Input radii 11117, 11137 are greater than the output radii of curvature 11118, 11138. Further, the formation surfaces comprise a transition point at which the radii of curvature change from the input radii of curvature 11127, 11147 to the radii of curvature of exit 11128, 11148. In this case, this transition point occurs at the ends of the grooves 11115, 11135 that are closest to the bridge portion 11105. The specific relationships between the radii of curvature and various features of the pocket will be discussed in more detail below, along with some potential advantages and patterns of specific relationships.

[00557] The outer longitudinal edges of each pocket 11110, 11130 are called entry edges because they define the end of the entry zone forming surfaces 11111, 11131. The entry edges comprise an entry width that is the greatest width of the forming surfaces of each pocket 11110, 11130. The inner longitudinal edges of each pocket 11110, 11130 are called exit edges because they define the end of the exit zone forming surfaces 11112, 11132. The exit edges comprise a width of exit that is the narrowest section of the forming surfaces of each pocket 11110, 11130. The transition point where the entry zone changes to the exit zone comprises a transition width that is less than the entry width but greater than the output width.

[00558] Figure 115 is a cross-sectional view of the distal formation pocket 11130, taken along line 115-115 in Figure 113. This view is taken within the formation surface of the exit zone 11132 of the formation pocket 11130 Figure 116 is a cross-sectional view of distal forming pocket 11130 taken along line 116-116 in Figure 113. This view is taken near the valley, or recess, of forming pocket 11130. Note that groove 11135 can be considered an extension of sidewall portion 11142. Figure 117 is a cross-sectional view of distal shaping pocket 11130 taken along line 117-117 in Figure 113.

[00559] Figures 118-125 depict a forming pocket arrangement 11200 that is configured to deform a staple during a surgical stapling procedure. The formation pocket arrangement 11200 comprises a proximal formation pocket 11210 and a distal formation pocket 11230 defined on a flat or tissue contacting surface 11207 of an anvil 11201. The pockets 11210, 11230 are aligned along a Longitudinal axis of pocket 11203 of formation pocket arrangement 11200. Referring to Figures 118 and 119, formation pocket arrangement 11200 further comprises a bridging portion 11205 defined between formation pockets 11210 and 11230. Bridge portion 11205 is recessed relative to flat surface 11207 of anvil 11201. Bridge portion 11205 comprises a bridge width "W" and a bridge depth "D". The bridge depth "D" is the distance that the bridge portion 11205 is recessed relative to the flat surface 11207. The forming pocket arrangement 11200 comprises a center "C" defined within the bridge portion 11205. the center "C" is not the geometric center of the pocket arrangement 11200, rather the center "C" is identified as being close to the center portion of the bridge portion 11205 to define an intermediate reference point between the pockets to describe , in this case, the lack of symmetry of pocket arrangement 11200. Specifically, formation pocket arrangement 11200 is bilaterally asymmetric with respect to bridge portion 11205, bilaterally symmetric with respect to pocket axis 11203, and rotationally asymmetric with respect to center "C". Pockets 11210, 11230 are different in many ways, as discussed in more detail below.

[00560] The formation pocket arrangement 11200 further comprises a pair of primary side walls 11208 extending from the flat surface 11207 of the anvil 11201 towards the pockets 11210, 11230 and the bridge portion 11205. The primary side walls 11208 are angled at angle θ with respect to the flat surface 11207 of the anvil 11201.

[00561] The proximal formation pocket 11210 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls 11213 configured to direct staple tips and/or legs towards a pocket formation surface, as well as control the formation of the staples. The side walls of pocket 11213 are substantially vertical. In other words, the side walls 11213 are oriented 90 degrees, or approximately 90 degrees, relative to the flat surface 11207 of the anvil 11201. The side walls of the pocket 11213 extend from the primary side walls 11208 toward the pocket forming surface. proximal pocket 11210. Collectively, primary sidewalls 11208 and pocket sidewalls 11213 cooperate to taper corresponding staple tips toward proximal pocket-forming surface 11210. forming the proximal forming pocket 11210 are transition features 11214. In this case, features 11214 are curved, however, features 11214 may be flat in addition to, or instead of, being curved. These features 11214 can help prevent staple tip sticking, as discussed in more detail below.

[00562] The proximal formation pocket forming surfaces 11210 comprise an entry zone forming surface 11211 and an exit zone forming surface 11212. The entry zone forming surface 11211 corresponds to a proximal portion of the pocket proximal pocket 11210. The exit zone forming surface 11212 corresponds to a distal portion of the proximal pocket 11210. Similarly, the entrance zone forming surface 11211 corresponds to a portion of the pocket 11210 from which the corresponding clip tip has by objective to enter, or attack, pocket 11210 and start the formation. The exit zone forming surface 11212 corresponds to a portion of the pocket 11210 where the corresponding clip point is intended to exit the pocket 11210.

[00563] The forming surface of the proximal forming pocket 11210 also comprises a forming surface length, L1 and a forming surface depth, V1. Length L1 is identified as the distance between the leading edge of pocket 11210 and the leading edge of pocket 11210. The depth of formation surface V1 is identified as the deepest portion of pocket 11210, or the recess of pocket 11210, also called pocket voucher 11210.

[00564] In many respects, the distal training pocket 11230 is different from the proximal training pocket 11210. The distal training pocket 11230 comprises a pair of pocket sidewalls 11233 configured to direct staple tips and/or legs toward a pocket forming surface as well as controlling the formation of the staples. Sidewalls 11233 comprise distinct sidewall portions angled at different angles to the axis of pocket 11203. Sidewalls of pocket 11233 are substantially vertical. In other words, the side walls 11233 are oriented 90 degrees, or at least substantially 90 degrees, with respect to the flat surface 11207 of the anvil 11201. The side walls of the pocket 11233 extend from the primary side walls 11208 towards the surface of distal pocket forming 11230. Collectively, primary sidewalls 11208 and pocket sidewalls 11233 cooperate to taper corresponding staple tips toward distal pocket forming surface 11230. forming surface of the proximal forming pocket 11230 are transition features 11234. In this case, features 11234 are curved, however, features 11234 may be flat in addition to, or instead of, being curved. These 11234 features can help prevent staple tip sticking, as discussed in more detail below. Features 11234 of distal training pocket 11230 comprise a smaller radius of curvature than features 11213 of proximal training pocket 11210.

[00565] The distal pocket forming surfaces 11230 comprise an entry zone forming surface 11231 and an exit zone forming surface 11232. The entry zone forming surface 11231 corresponds to a distal portion of the pocket distal pocket 11230. The exit zone forming surface 11232 corresponds to a proximal portion of the distal pocket 11230. Similarly, the entry zone forming surface 11231 corresponds to a portion of the pocket 11230 from which the corresponding clip tip has by objective to enter, or attack, pocket 11230 and start the formation. The exit zone forming surface 11232 corresponds to a portion of the pocket 11230 where the corresponding clip point is intended to exit the pocket 11230.

[00566] The forming surface of the distal forming pocket 11210 also comprises a forming surface length L2 and a forming surface depth V2. Length L2 is identified as the distance between the leading edge of pocket 11230 and the leading edge of pocket 11230. The depth of formation surface V2 is identified as the deepest portion of pocket 11230, or the recess of pocket 11230, also called the valley of pocket 11230. The length of forming surface L2 of distal pocket 11230 is greater than the length of forming surface L1 of proximal pocket 11210. Further, the depth of forming surface V1 of proximal pocket 11210 is greater than the depth of forming surface V2 of distal pocket 11230. In other cases, the depth of forming surface V1 of proximal pocket 11210 may be less than the depth of forming surface V2 of distal pocket 11230.

[00567] The difference in forming surface lengths between two pockets in a pocket arrangement intended to form a staple can be advantageous. In certain cases, the fabric can be pushed forward during a firing stroke due to the advancement of the fabric cutting knife, for example, and consequently the fabric can be pushed forward during the firing of the staples. If staples are ejected from the cartridge and into the tissue as the tissue moves longitudinally relative to the platform, this can cause the staple legs and/or staple tips to flex distally from their bases due to tissue flow. In that case, a distal forming pocket that has a greater forming surface length than the proximal forming pocket may be able to account for this longitudinal deflection of the clip legs.

[00568] With reference to Figure 119, the forming surfaces of each pocket 11210, 11230 comprise more than one radius of curvature. Specifically, the proximal pocket 11210 comprises an entry radius of curvature 11216 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 11211 and an exit radius of curvature 11217 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 11212. Distal pocket 11230 comprises an entry radius of curvature 11236 corresponding to the entry zone forming surface 11231 and an exit radius of curvature 11237 corresponding to the exit zone forming surface 11232. Input 11216, 11236 are greater than output bend radii 11217, 11237. Also, input bend radii 11216, 11236 are different and output bend radii 11217, 11237 are different. The specific relationships between curvature radii and various pocket features will be discussed in more detail below, along with some advantages and potential patterns of the specific relationships.

[00569] Returning to Figures 123-125, the outer longitudinal edge of the proximal pocket 11210 is called an entry edge because it defines the start of the entry zone forming surface 11211. The entry edge comprises an entry width that is the greatest width of the proximal pocket forming surface 11210. The entrance width of the proximal pocket forming surface 11210 is also greater than the bridge width "W". The inner longitudinal edge of the proximal pocket 11210 is called an exit edge because it defines the end of the exit zone forming surface 11212. The exit edge comprises an exit width that is the narrowest section of the exit zone forming surface 11212. proximal pocket 11210. The transition between the entry zone forming surface 11211 and the exit zone forming surface 11212 comprises a transition width that is less than the entry width but greater than the exit width. The exit width and transition width of the proximal pocket forming surface 11210 are both less than the bridge width "W".

[00570] Figure 123 is a cross-sectional view of the proximal formation pocket 11210, taken along line 123-123 in Figure 118. This view is taken within the formation surface of the exit zone 11212 of the formation pocket 11210 Figure 124 is a cross-sectional view of proximal forming pocket 11210 taken along line 124-124 in Figure 118. This view is taken at or near the valley or recess of forming pocket 11210. Figure 125 is a cross-sectional view of proximal forming pocket 11210 taken along line 125-125 in Figure 118. This view is taken within the forming surface of the entry zone 11211 of forming pocket 11210.

[00571] Returning to Figures 120-122, the outer longitudinal edge of the distal pocket 11230 is called an entry edge because it defines the beginning of the surface forming the entry zone 11231. The entry edge comprises an entry width that is the greatest width of the distal pocket forming surface 11230. The entrance width of the distal pocket forming surface 11230 is greater than the bridge width "W". The inner longitudinal edge of the distal pocket 11230 is called the exit edge because it defines the end of the exit zone-forming surface 11232. The exit edge comprises an exit width that is the narrowest section of the pocket-forming surface distal 11230. The transition between the entry zone forming surface 11231 and the exit zone forming surface 11232 comprises a transition width that is less than the entry width but greater than the exit width. The exit width and transition width of the distal pocket forming surface 11230 are both less than the bridge width "W". However, relative to pocket width (distance between outer side edges) at these locations, pocket 11230 is wider than bridge portion 11205.

[00572] Figure 120 is a cross-sectional view of the distal formation pocket 11230, taken along line 120-120 in Figure 118. This view is taken within the formation surface of the exit zone 11232 of the formation pocket 11230 Figure 121 is a cross-sectional view of distal formation pocket 11230 taken along line 121-121 in Figure 118. This view is taken at or near the valley or recess of formation pocket 11230. Figure 122 is a cross-sectional view of the distal forming pocket 11230 taken along line 122-122 in Figure 118. This view is taken within the forming surface of the entry zone 11231 of the forming pocket 11230.

[00573] Another asymmetrical property of the formation pocket arrangement 11200 involves the size of the contact zones of each pocket and the exit zones of each pocket. For example, the proximal pocket comprises a contact zone and exit zone that are smaller than the contact zone and exit zone of the distal pocket. Furthermore, the "C" center of the array does not correspond to the geometric center of the clip crown. Adjusting certain features of formation pocket arrangements to better accommodate the expected tissue flow which ultimately may effect the proximal and distal staple legs differently, for example, can lead to asymmetrical formation pocket arrangements, but potentially great.

[00574] The difference in forming surface depths between two pockets in a pocket arrangement intended to form a single staple can be advantageous. With reference now to Figures 126-129, two different stapling assembly arrangements 11300 and 11300' are illustrated. One of the arrays 11300 (Figure 126) comprises formation pockets with formation surfaces, or valleys, of identical depth. The other arrangement 11300' (Figure 128) comprises formation pockets with different formation surface depths. Both arrangements 11300, 11300' are shown in a setting where the anvil has not been secured to be substantially parallel to the top surface, or platform, of the staple cartridge.

[00575] The stapling assembly 11300 shown in Figure 126 comprises a first gripper 11310 comprising a staple cartridge 11311, a second gripper 11320 comprising an anvil 11321 and staples 11301 removablely stored within the cartridge 11311 configured to be ejected from the cartridge 11311 by a slider 11312. The slider 11312 comprises a cam, or driving surface, 11313 configured to contact a driving surface 11303 of the clamp 11301 and push the clamps 11301 toward forming pockets 11323 of the anvil 11321 to form clip legs 11304 (proximal leg) and 11305 (distal leg) extending from a clip base portion 11302 of each clip 11301. As discussed above, the forming pockets 11323 of this arrangement 11300 comprise surface depths of identical training. This depth is the distance between a flat anvil surface 11322 and the valley, or recess, of pocket 11323. During formation of staple 11301 with anvil 11321 of arrangement 11300 when the anvil is positioned at angle θ relative to the cartridge platform 11314, the distal leg 11305 will form with a greater formation height than the proximal leg 11304 (Figure 127). This could also be described as the distal leg 11305 not being fully formed due to the fact that the anvil 11321 was not secured in a position such that the flat anvil surface 11322 was parallel to the cartridge platform 11314.

[00576] The clipping assembly 11300' shown in Figure 128 comprises all the same elements as the clipping assembly 11300 with the exception of the second claw 11320. The clipping assembly 11300' comprises a second claw 11320' comprising an anvil 11321' which includes a flat anvil surface 11322' and a plurality of forming pockets 11323A, 11323B defined on the anvil 11321'. As discussed above, the formation pockets 11323A, 11323B of that array 11300' comprise different formation surface depths. Proximal pockets 11323A, configured to form proximal staple legs, like proximal staple leg 11304, comprise a deeper forming surface depth than distal pockets 11323B. Distal pockets 11323B, configured to form distal clip legs like distal clip leg 11305, comprise a shallower forming surface depth than proximal pockets 11323A to account for a potentially angled claw 11320'. During formation of staples 11301 with anvil 11321' of array 11300' when the anvil is positioned at angle θ relative to cartridge platform 11314, proximal leg 11304 and distal leg 11305 can be formed with identical forming heights, or substantially equal (Figure 130).

[00577] Although the anvil is intended to be secured in a position that places the anvil surface substantially parallel to the cartridge platform, this is not always the case. For example, due to unexpected tissue behavior and/or the nature of a surgical stapling procedure, thicker sections of tissue may end up in the distal portion of the End Actuator (this can occur with already stapled tissue that ends up re-stuck in a section end actuator for a subsequent shot that is thinner and more compact than the tissue in the distal portion of the next tissue section to be stapled). Consequently, the anvil may not be able to be secured in a substantially parallel configuration with respect to the cartridge. As a result, staples can form like staple 11301 in Figure 127 which has a partially formed leg 11305 and a fully formed leg 11304. Rather than designing the anvil to ensure parallel alignment with the cartridge when clamped, a solution may be to embrace the probability of non-parallel alignment and project formation pocket arrangement, or pairs of formation pockets, as described above. Furthermore, in the event that the anvil shown in the arrangement 11300' shown in Figure 128 is clamped at least substantially parallel to the platform 11314, the distal leg of the clamp may overform. Overforming a staple can, in some circumstances, be more advantageous than underforming or partially forming (Figure 127) a staple. Providing a valley depth difference between pairs of pockets can prevent modifications between the proximal and distal legs of the staples.

[00578] Figures 130-133 show various anvils to be employed with a surgical instrument for forming surgical staples. Figure 130 depicts an anvil 11400 comprising a cartridge facing portion 11401. The anvil 11400 comprises a pair of longitudinal inner rows 11407A, 11407B of forming pockets 11405, a pair of longitudinal intermediate rows 11408A, 11408B of forming pockets 11405 , and a pair of outer longitudinal rows 11409A, 11409B of formation pockets 11405. Rows 11407A, 11407B, 11408A, 11408B, 11409A, 11409B are aligned with, or substantially parallel to, a longitudinal axis of anvil 11403. formation 11405 are defined on cartridge-facing portion 11401. Cartridge-facing portion 11401 may be flat or may comprise multiple staggered surfaces, for example. For example, the portion facing the cartridge 11401 may comprise two different staggered surfaces where the inner rows 11407A, 11407B and the intermediate rows 11408A, 11408B of the forming pockets 11405 are defined in one of the steps and the outer rows 11409A, 11409B of the pockets training method 11405 are defined in the other step. Another example may include three different staggered surfaces: inner rows 11407A, 11407B of formation pockets 11405 defined in a first step, intermediate rows 11408A, 11408B of formation pockets 11405 defined in a second step, and outer rows 11409A, 11409B of the 11405 formation pockets defined in a third step.

[00579] Figure 131 depicts an anvil 11410 comprising a portion facing the cartridge 11411 and laterally changing pairs of forming pockets defined therein. The anvil 11410 comprises a pair of inner longitudinal rows 11417A, 11417B of forming pocket pairs 11421, a pair of intermediate longitudinal rows 11418A, 11418B of forming pocket pairs 11423, and a pair of outer longitudinal rows 11419A, 11419B of pairs formation pocket pairs 11425. Rows 11417A, 11417B, 11418A, 11418B, 11419A, 11419B are aligned with, or substantially parallel to, a longitudinal axis of anvil 11413. Formation pocket pairs 11421, 11423, 11425 are defined in cartridge-facing portion 11401. Pocket pairs 11421 comprise a first type of formation pockets 11422. These formation pockets 11422 may be similar in many respects to formation pockets 10210, 10230, for example. Pocket pairs 11423 comprise a second type of forming pockets 11424A (proximal), 11424B (distal) that are asymmetrical. Formation pockets 11424A, 11424B may be similar in many respects to formation pockets 11210, 11230, respectively, for example. Pocket pairs 11425 comprise a third type of formation pockets 11426. These formation pockets 11422 may be similar in many respects to formation pockets 10110, 10130, for example. Anvil 11410 may also comprise various staggered configurations, as discussed in connection with anvil 11400, among others.

[00580] Figure 132 depicts an anvil 11430 comprising a portion facing the cartridge 11431 and laterally changing pairs of forming pockets defined therein. The anvil 11430 comprises a pair of inner longitudinal rows 11437A, 11437B that include pairs of formation pockets 11441, 11443, 11445, a pair of intermediate longitudinal rows 11438A, 11438B that include pairs of formation pockets 11441, 11443, 11445, and a pair of outer longitudinal rows 11439A, 11439B including forming pocket pairs 11441, 11443, 11445. Rows 11437A, 11437B, 11438A, 11438B, 11439A, 11439B are aligned with, or substantially parallel to, a longitudinal axis of the anvil 11433 The formation pocket pairs 11441, 11443, 11445 are defined on the cartridge facing portion 11431. The pocket pairs 11441 comprise a first type of formation pockets 11442. training 10210, 10230, for example. Pocket pairs 11443 comprise a second type of formation pockets 11444. These formation pockets 11444 may be similar in many respects to formation pockets 10110, 10130, for example. Pocket pairs 11445 comprise a third type of formation pockets 11446A (proximal), 11446B (distal) which are asymmetrical. Formation pockets 11446A, 11446B may be similar in many respects to formation pockets 11210, 11230, respectively, for example. Anvil 11430 may also comprise various staggered configurations, as discussed in connection with anvil 11400, among others.

[00581] Figure 133 represents an anvil 11450 comprising a portion facing the cartridge 11451 and pairs of formation pockets that vary longitudinally and laterally on the anvil 11450. The anvil 11450 comprises a pair of internal longitudinal rows 11457A, 11457B of pairs 11461 Formation Pocket, a pair of longitudinal intermediate rows 11458a, 11458b of formation pocket pairs 11463, 11465, and a pair of longitudinal outdoor rows 11459a, 11459b of formation pockets 11467. The rows 11457a, 11457b, 11458a , 11458B, 11459A, 11459B are aligned with, or substantially parallel to, a longitudinal axis of the anvil 11453. The forming pocket pairs 11461, 11463, 11465, 11467 are defined in the portion facing the cartridge 11451. The pocket pairs 11461 comprise a first type of formation pockets 11462. These formation pockets 11462 may be similar in many respects to formation pockets 10510, 10530, for example. Pocket pairs 11463 comprise a second type of formation pockets 11464. These formation pockets 11464 may be similar in many respects to formation pockets 10210, 10230, for example. Pocket pairs 11465 comprise a third type of forming pockets 11466A (proximal), 11466B (distal) which are asymmetrical. Formation pockets 11466A, 11466B may be similar in many respects to formation pockets 11210, 11230, respectively, for example. Pocket pairs 11467 comprise a fourth type of formation pockets 11468. These formation pockets 11468 may be similar in many respects to formation pockets 10110, 10130, for example. Anvil 11450 may also comprise various staggered configurations, as discussed in connection with anvil 11400, among others.

[00582] In addition to, or instead of, pairs of pockets that change laterally and/or longitudinally, an anvil may comprise one type of forming pockets on one side of the axis of the anvil and another type of forming pockets on the other side of the anvil axis. Furthermore, one type of formation pockets can be associated with a proximal portion of the incus corresponding to an initial firing stage of the surgical instrument, a second type of forming pockets can be associated with an intermediate portion of the anvil corresponding to the firing stage which is subsequent to the initial firing stage, and a third type of formation pockets may be associated with a third and final firing stage which is subsequent to the intermediate firing stage and the initial firing stage. Pockets can be strategically placed on the anvil to increase overall pocket performance. For example, one type of forming pockets may form taller staples more consistently and generally better than shorter staples, or vice versa. In another example, with a cartridge that has multiple staples of different diameters, it may be advantageous to have the forming pockets forming staples with smaller diameters that form the smallest staples in the cartridge and, similarly, the forming pockets forming staples with larger diameters form the larger clips in the cartridge.

[00583] Referring now to Fig. 134, there is shown a table 12000 which identifies features of various formation pocket arrangements. The table identifies features for the formation pocket arrangement 10100 and the formation pocket arrangement 10200. The table also identifies features for other formation pocket arrangements tested in a finite element analysis environment that may be similar to the pocket arrangements training 10100, 10200 in many ways. Formation pocket layouts A1, A2 are similar to formation pocket layout 10100 and formation pocket layouts B1, B2 are similar to formation pocket layout 10200. Table 12000 also identifies features of formation pocket layouts 12100.

[00584] With reference also to Figure 135, resources 12001, 12003, 12005, 12007 and 12009 are mentioned in relation to some of the training pocket arrangements identified in table 12000, as well as another training pocket arrangement, in accordance with at least one modality. From top to bottom in Figure 135, cross-sectional views of formation pocket arrangement 10100, formation pocket arrangement 12100, formation pocket arrangement 10200, and formation pocket arrangement 10400 are illustrated. represents the longitudinal entry radius of each formation pocket. Feature 12003 represents the longitudinal rake radius of each forming pocket. Feature 12005 represents the distance between the valleys of the formation pocket pairs. In other words, feature 12005 represents the distance between the deepest point of the pockets in each formation pocket arrangement. Feature 12007 represents the crest, or bridge, width of each formation pocket arrangement. Feature 12009 represents the crest, or bridge, depth of each formation pocket arrangement.

[00585] Figure 136 shows three formation pocket arrangements 10100, 10200, 10400 and corresponding clips 10100', 10200', 10400' formed with formation pocket arrangements 10100, 10200, 10400, respectively. Pocket arrangement 10200 requires the least amount of force to fully form clip 10200'. In other words, the maximum force required to form the clip 10200' with the forming pocket arrangement 10200 is less than the maximum force required to form the other clips 10100', 10400' with the forming pocket arrangements 10100, 10400. This can be advantageous in that minimizing the total staple firing force can minimize stress and elongation on other components within the surgical staple assembly. Minimizing mechanical stress and mechanical stress can reduce the likelihood of elements failing prematurely. Decreasing the required firing force can also contribute to decreasing the size of driveshaft diameters by requiring smaller parts that don't need to be as strong. Firing element warpage, for example, is a well-recognized issue when trying to minimize the size of driveshaft diameters.

[00586] Figure 137 is a table 12200 that identifies additional features of various training pocket arrangements discussed above. Column 12201 identifies various maximum forces to fire to completely form a staple with different formation pocket arrangements. Column 12203 identifies various maximum forces to fire to overload a staple with different formation pocket arrangements.

[00587] Figure 138 depicts a clip 12301 in a B-shaped configuration 12300 and in an overhead configuration 12300' formed with the forming pocket arrangement 10100. The clip 12301 comprises a clip base 12302 and a pair of legs of staple 12303 extending from staple base 12302. Each staple leg 12303 comprises a staple tip 12304 configured to contact a forming pocket when staple 12301 is driven toward the anvil of a surgical instrument. Clamp 12301 comprises a number of flexion regions or zones, 12305 and 12306, which, when formed by certain forming pocket arrangements, can flex into predictable flexion profiles. The forming pocket arrangement 10100 causes the flex regions 12305, 12306 to flex in a distinct profile. Clamp 12301 in the fully formed configuration, for example, comprises a box structure rather than a continuously formed structure. Bending regions 12305, 12306 comprise acute bending portions. As a result, there is a significant span distance 12307 between the bending portions 12306 of the legs 12303. Also, the span distance 12308 between the tips 12304 of the legs 12303 is significant. In various fabric fastening scenarios, these gaps 12307, 12308 between the flex portions 12606 and the staple tips 12304 may less effectively seal the fabric.

[00588] The force F required to form the clip 12301 with the formation pocket arrangement 10100 is illustrated in graph 12310 of Figure 138. The force profile comprises specific zones and peaks 12302, 12303, 12304, 12305, 12306. initial 12302 represents the tip's attack, or contact of the tip, with its corresponding formation pocket. Once the staple tips reach the pockets and stick to the pocket exit zones, the legs 12303 will then bend and begin to flex at flexion regions 12306. The flexion of these flexure regions 12306 corresponds to portion 12313 of the graph 12310. The legs 12303 will then proceed to a second stage of warping once the flex regions 12306 are completely or largely formed and the flex regions 12306 make contact with the zone forming surfaces entry pockets. Once flex regions 12306 make contact with the forming pockets, legs 12303 will bend into a B-shape forming flex regions 12305. This second stage of warping produces a second peak of force 12314.

[00589] When the clamp 12301 is formed beyond its formed configuration B 12300, the clamp is in an overload configuration 12300'. This can happen for several reasons. One reason could be that staple 12301 is lifted above the staple cartridge platform to completely eject staple 12301 from the staple cartridge. With respect to the overload configuration 12300' of clamp 12301, the gap 12308 increased significantly in the distance between the clamp tips 12304. Also, the legs 12303 of clamp 12301 began to form additional overload flex regions between clamp base 12302 and the flexion regions 12305. When this region flexes, the height of the formed staple can decrease, which can also contribute to tissue being less effectively sealed. Furthermore, when this region bends, "B" bending of the staple legs 12303 can occur. This "B" bend comprises a width that, when increased, can cause the staple 12301 to less effectively seal the fabric. Referring to graph 12310, a second peak force 12316 represents the force required to overload clamp 12301. This force is significantly greater than the force required to form clamp 12301 into the B shape at peak 12314.

[00590] Figure 139 depicts a clip 12321 in a B-shaped configuration 12320 and in an overhead configuration 12320' formed with the forming pocket arrangement 10200. The clip 12321 comprises a clip base 12322 and a pair of legs of clip 12323 extending from clip base 12322. Each clip leg 12323 comprises a clip tip 12324 configured to contact a corresponding forming pocket when clip 12321 is driven toward the anvil of a surgical instrument . Clamp 12321 comprises various flexion regions or zones, 12325 and 12326, which, when formed by certain forming pocket arrangements, can flex into predictable flexion profiles. The forming pocket arrangement 10200 causes the flex regions 12325, 12326 to flex in a more continuous profile than the flex regions 12305, 12306 of the staple 12301 formed with the forming pocket arrangement 10100. clamp 12321 in the B-formed configuration comprises a profile closer to an actual "B" clamp configuration than the fully formed distinct bending configuration of clamp 12301. Bending regions 12325, 12326 comprise bending radii greater than the flex regions 12305, 12306. As a result, the span distance 12327 between the flex portions 12326 of the legs 12323 is less than the span distance 12307. Furthermore, the span distance 12328 between the tips 12324 of the legs 12323 is less than gap distance 12308. In various tissue attachment scenarios, smaller gaps 12327, 12328 between flex portions 12626 and staple tips 12324 can help seal tissue more effectively than staple 12301. Minimizing these span distances can increase the tissue capture capability of the 12321 staple.

[00591] The force F required to form the clip 12321 with the forming pocket arrangement 10200 is illustrated in graph 12330 of Figure 139. The force profile comprises specific zones 12333, 12335 and peaks 12332, 12334, 12336. The initial peak 12332 represents the tip attack, or tip contact, with its corresponding formation pocket. Once the staple tips reach the pockets and stick to the pocket exit zones, the legs 12323 will then bend and begin to flex at flexion regions 12326. The flexion of these flexure regions 12326 corresponds to portion 12333 of the graph 12330. The legs 12323 will then proceed to a second stage of warping once the flex regions 12326 are completely or mostly formed and the flex regions 12326 contact and slide within the zone forming surfaces entry pockets. Once the flex regions 12326 come into contact with the forming pockets, the legs 12323 will bend into a B-shape forming flex regions 12325. This second stage of warping produces a second peak of force 12334. with clip 12301, clip 12321 formed with forming pocket arrangement 10200 requires less force to form completely.

[00592] In a situation where clamp 12321 is formed beyond its B-shaped configuration 12320 can be called an overload configuration 12320'. Regarding the overhead configuration 12320' of clamp 12321, the gap distance 12328 has increased in the distance between the clamp tips 12304, however, the gap is not as significant as the gap distance between the tips 12304 of the clamp 12301 in its configuration overload 12300'. The span distance 12327 between the bending regions 12326 has decreased. Further, the legs 12323 of the clamp 12321 have begun to form additional overload bending regions between the clamp base 12322 and the bending regions 12325. However, compared to the clamp 12301, the "B" curve of the clamp legs 12323 is smaller than the "B" curve of the 12303 clamp legs in their 12300' overhead configuration. Referring to graph 12330 in Figure 139, another peak force 12336 represents the force required to overload clamp 12321. Force 12336 is similar to force 12334 required to place clamp 12301 into the B-shape. triggering clamp 12321 in an overload situation is not as critical to the rest of the instrument as the force to trigger clamp 12301 in an overload situation.

[00593] The formation pocket arrangement 10100 and the clamp 12301 are illustrated in Figures 140 and 141 in a tip attack stage 12400, a first flexion stage 12400', a second flexion stage 12400'', and a B , or complete stage and formed 12400'''. During the tip attack stage 12400, the clamp legs 12301 are configured to bend in the first flexion stage 12400'. After warping, the legs flex creating the first flexion regions. The legs are set to bend a second time when the first flexion regions come into contact with the forming pockets at the second flexion stage 12400''. After bending a second time, the legs flex again creating second flexion regions. Clamp 12301 then completes formation and desirably reaches a fully formed stage 12400''. As seen in Figure 141, the fully formed stage 12400''' illustrates the clamp 12301 with separately curved legs.

[00594] The formation pocket arrangement 10200 and the clamp 12321 are illustrated in Figures 142 and 143 in a tip attack stage 12500, a first flexion stage 12500'', a second flexion stage 12500'', and a stage fully formed 12500'''. During the tip attack stage 12500, the clamp legs 12501 are configured to bend in the first flexion stage 12500'. After warping, the legs flex creating the first flexion regions. The first bending regions of the clamp 12321 comprise greater bending radii than the first bending regions of the clamp 12301. The legs are configured to bend a second time when the first bending regions come into contact with the forming pockets in the second stage of bending. flexion 12500''. After bending a second time, the legs flex again creating second flexion regions. The second bending regions of clip 12321 comprise a greater radius of curvature than the second bending regions of clip 12301. Due to the fact that the bending regions of clip 12321 comprise a greater radius of curvature than the bending regions of clip 12301 , the clip legs 12321 comprise more continuously formed clip legs. Clamp 12321 then completes formation and desirably reaches a fully formed stage 12500''. As seen in Figure 143, the fully formed stage 12500''' illustrates the clamp 12321 with more continuously formed clamp legs than the clamp 12301. As a result, the clamp 12321 more closely resembles a "B" formation true than clamp 12301.

[00595] Compared to Staple 12301 and its respective formation pocket arrangement 10100, Staple 12321 forms with less of a tissue trajectory, or projection area, than Staple 12301. A trajectory projection area of large tissue can cause excessive tissue stretching and/or tearing during staple formation. Due to the more continuous curvature of the formed clip profile 12321, legs 12323 form and follow closer to the path of prongs 12324 than do legs 12303 and prongs 12304.

[00596] Figures 144 and 145 represent the staples 12301, 12321 that form from their tip attack stage to a partially formed stage. This partially formed stage may also be called the tip adhesion stage. As seen in Figure 144, the legs 12303 are configured to bend creating flexion regions 12306. The loads experienced by the legs 12303 when formed with the forming pocket arrangement 10100 comprise a first eccentricity. As can be seen in Figure. 145, legs 12323 are configured to bend creating flexion regions 12326. The loads experienced by legs 12323 when formed with forming pocket arrangement 10200 comprise a second eccentricity. Due to differences in the pocket shape of the forming pocket arrangements 10100, 10200, the second eccentricity is greater than the first eccentricity. This relationship causes variations in deflection sites. For example, legs 12303 offset in bending regions 12306 a distance D1 from a given D. Legs 12323 offset in bending regions 12326 a distance D2 from a given D. Distance D2 is less than distance D1. Reducing the deflection or bending regions 12326 causes the legs 12323 to curve and form with larger bending radii, thereby creating more continuously formed clip legs.

[00597] Now referring to Figures 146-153, the formation of staples formed with various formation pocket arrangements discussed above will now be described. Staples do not always contact their respective forming pockets in an aligned state. Providing formation pocket arrangements that can prevent poor formation of a staple in the event that the staple is not aligned with its corresponding formation pockets during formation can be advantageous.

[00598] Figure 146 represents a side view 12700 and a bottom view 12700' of a clip 12701 in a fully formed configuration that was formed with the formation pocket arrangement 10200. However, this clip 12701 was not aligned with the geometric axis of the pocket 10203 of the forming pocket arrangement 10200 during the forming process. Staple 12701 has been driven out of plane with respect to the axis of pocket 10203. Prongs 12704 did not reach formation pocket arrangement 10200 along axis of pocket 10203 nor were crown, or base, 12702 of staple 12701 aligned with the axis of pocket 10203 during formation.

[00599] The clamp 12701 comprises a first tip alignment axis TA1, a second tip alignment axis TA2 and a crown alignment axis CA. The tips 12704 are configured to cross the first tip alignment axis TA1 and, as a result, overlap or intersect. The fully formed location of the tips 12704 defines the second tip alignment axis TA2. This axis can be defined as an axis parallel to the CA crown alignment axis defined by the crown 12702 and aligned with a midpoint between the tips 12704. Minimizing the distance between the CA crown alignment axis and the second axis The TA2 tip alignment method can be advantageous in that the closer these axes are to each other, the more effective the 12701 staple's ability to capture and/or seal tissue.

[00600] Figure 147 is a comparison between the clamp 12701 and the formation pocket arrangement 10200 of Figure 146 and a clamp 12801 formed with the formation pocket arrangement 10100. As can be seen from Figure 146, the distance between the second tip alignment axis TA2 and the crown alignment axis CA of the clamp 12801 is greater than the distance between the second tip alignment axis TA2 and the crown alignment axis CA of the clamp 12701. Furthermore, the ends 12804 of the clamp 12801 do not overlap in this misalignment forming scenario of the clamp 12801. The clamp 12801 is formed in a path 12805 directed in the opposite direction from the crown alignment axis CA, while the clamp 12701 is formed on a path 12705 more aligned with the CA crown alignment axis.

[00601] Figure 148 represents a side view 12900 and a bottom view 12900' of a clip 12901 in a fully formed configuration that was formed with the formation pocket arrangement 10400. However, this clip 12901 was not aligned with the geometric axis of the pocket 10403 of the forming pocket arrangement 10400 during the forming process. Staple 12901 was driven out of plane with respect to the axis of pocket 10403. Prongs 12904 did not reach formation pocket arrangement 10400 along axis of pocket 10403 nor were crown, or base, 12902 of staple 12901 aligned with the axis of pocket 10403 during formation.

[00602] The clamp 12901 comprises a first tip alignment axis TA1, a second tip alignment axis TA2 and a crown alignment axis CA. Prongs 12904 are configured to partially and/or completely intersect the first prong alignment axis TA1 and, as a result, partially intersect. The fully formed location of the tips 12904 defines the second tip alignment axis TA2. This axis can be defined as an axis parallel to the CA crown alignment axis defined by the crown 12902 and aligned with a midpoint between the tips 12904. Minimizing the distance between the CA crown alignment axis and the second axis The TA2 tip alignment method can be advantageous in that the closer these axes are to each other, the more effective the tissue capture and/or sealing ability of staple 12901 will be. 146, for example, the closely spaced exit walls and/or aggressively angled exit walls of forming pocket arrangement 10400 can encourage staple legs to form closer to their crowns. In other words, the forming pocket arrangement 10400 can encourage flat forming in at least the event of misalignment.

[00603] Figure 149 represents a side view 13000 and a bottom view 13000' of a clip 13001 in a fully formed configuration that was formed with the formation pocket arrangement 10300. However, this clip 13001 was not aligned with the geometric axis of the pocket 10303 of the forming pocket arrangement 10300 during the forming process. Staple 13001 was driven out of plane with respect to the axis of pocket 10303. Prongs 13004 did not reach formation pocket arrangement 10300 along axis of pocket 10303 nor were crown, or base, 13002 of staple 13001 aligned with the axis of pocket 10303 during formation.

[00604] The clamp 13001 comprises a first tip alignment axis TA1, a second tip alignment axis TA2 and a crown alignment axis CA. The legs 13003 are configured to be formed in a position in which the legs are at least substantially aligned with the first axis of tip alignment TA1. In some cases, the styli 13004 and/or legs may come into contact with each other during formation, which may prevent the legs 13003 from crossing the first point alignment axis TA1. The fully formed location of the tips 13004 defines the second tip alignment axis TA2. This axis can be defined as an axis parallel to the CA crown alignment axis defined by the crown 13002 and aligned with a midpoint between the tips 13004. Minimizing the distance between the CA crown alignment axis and the second axis The TA2 tip alignment method can be advantageous in that the closer these axes are to each other, the more effective the tissue capture and/or sealing capability of staple 13001 will be. 146, for example, the closely spaced exit walls and/or aggressively angled exit walls of forming pocket arrangement 10300 can encourage staple legs to form closer to their crowns. In other words, the forming pocket arrangement 10300 can encourage flat forming in the event of misalignment.

[00605] Figures 150 and 151 represent staples formed with the formation pocket arrangement 10500 where a staple was aligned with the axis of the pocket 10503 of the formation pocket arrangement 10500 and the other staple was misaligned with the axis of the pocket 10503 of forming pocket arrangement 10500. Figure 150 depicts a side view 13100 and bottom view 13100' of a clip 13101 in a fully formed configuration that has been formed with forming pocket arrangement 10500. This clip 13101 has been aligned with the pocket axis 10503 of the forming pocket arrangement 10500 during the forming process. Tips 13104 reached formation pocket arrangement 10500 along the axis of pocket 10503.

[00606] The clamp 13101 comprises a first tip alignment axis TA1, a second tip alignment axis TA2 and a crown alignment axis CA. When aligned with the pocket axis 10503, the clamp 13101 forms such that the second tip alignment axis TA2 and the crown alignment axis CA are substantially aligned, or in other words, the clamp 13101 assumes a configuration substantially flat. The force to fire clamp 13101 is illustrated in graph 13110.

[00607] Figure 151 represents a side view 13120 and a bottom view 13120' of a clip 13121 in a fully formed configuration that was formed with the formation pocket arrangement 10500. This clip 13121 was misaligned with the geometric axis of the pocket 10503 of the forming pocket arrangement 10500 during the forming process. Staple 13121 has been driven out of plane with respect to the axis of pocket 10503. Prongs 13124 did not reach formation pocket arrangement 10500 along axis of pocket 10503 nor were crown, or base, 13122 of staple 13121 aligned with the axis of pocket 10503 during formation.

[00608] The clamp 13121 comprises a first tip alignment axis TA1, a second tip alignment axis TA2 and a crown alignment axis CA. When misaligned with the pocket axis 10503, the clip 13121 forms such that the second tip alignment axis TA2 and the crown alignment axis CA are substantially aligned with each other or, in other words, the clamp 13121 assumes a substantially flat configuration. Compared to Figure 150 where clip 13101 has been aligned with the axis of pocket 10503, clip 13121 forms into a fully formed configuration which may be more acceptable to a surgeon to more adequately seal tissue than formed clips with other formation pocket arrangements that form in a misaligned state.

[00609] Figures 152 and 153 represent staples formed with the formation pocket arrangement 11000 where a staple was aligned with the axis of the pocket 11003 of the formation pocket arrangement 11000 and the other staple was misaligned with the axis of the pocket 11003 of forming pocket arrangement 11000. Figure 152 depicts a side view 13200 and bottom view 13200' of a clip 13201 in a fully formed configuration that has been formed with forming pocket arrangement 11000. This clip 13201 has been aligned with the pocket axis 11003 of the forming pocket arrangement 11000 during the forming process. Tips 13204 reached formation pocket arrangement 11000 along the axis of pocket 11003.

[00610] The clamp 13201 comprises a first tip alignment axis TA1, a second tip alignment axis TA2 and a crown alignment axis CA. When misaligned with the pocket axis 11003, the clip 13101 forms such that the second tip alignment axis TA2 and the crown alignment axis CA are substantially aligned, however, the axes TA2, CA are also not aligned. -parallel. One leg 13204 is formed on one side of crown 13203 and the other leg 13204 formed on the other side of crown 13203. The force to fire clamp 13201 is illustrated in graph 13210. It can be seen from graph 13210 that the force to fire clamp 13201 does not comprise two distinct and substantial peaks of strength as graphs related to other formation pocket arrangements discussed above. Clamp 13201 is configured to contact multiple points of pockets of forming pocket arrangement 11000 simultaneously during forming. This double tangential contact with the formation pockets can help reduce staple tip and/or leg sticking as well as force to fire the 13201 staple.

[00611] Figure 153 represents a side view 13220 and a bottom view 13220' of a clip 13221 in a fully formed configuration that was formed with the formation pocket arrangement 11000. This clip 13221 was misaligned with the geometric axis of the pocket 11003 of the forming pocket arrangement 11000 during the forming process. Staple 13221 has been driven out of plane with respect to the axis of pocket 11003. Prongs 13224 did not reach formation pocket arrangement 11000 along axis of pocket 11003 nor were crown, or base, 13222 of staple 13221 aligned with the axis of pocket 11003 during formation.

[00612] The clamp 13221 comprises a first tip alignment axis TA1, a second tip alignment axis TA2 and a crown alignment axis CA. When misaligned with the pocket axis 11003, the clip 13221 forms such that the second tip alignment axis TA2 and the crown alignment axis CA are substantially aligned with each other or, in other words, the clip 13221 assumes a substantially flat configuration. The TA2, CA axes are parallel. Compared to Figure 152, where staple 13201 has been aligned with the axis of pocket 11003, staple 13221 forms into a fully formed configuration which may be more acceptable to a surgeon to more adequately seal tissue than formed staples. with other formation pocket arrangements that form in a misaligned state. The force to fire clamp 13221 is illustrated in graph 13230. Similar to clamp 13201, the force to fire clamp 13201 does not comprise two distinct and substantial force peaks as graphs related to other formation pocket arrangements discussed above.

[00613] Still referring to Figure 153, a cross section of a forming pocket 11030 of the forming pocket arrangement 11000 is illustrated with various staple diameter profiles 11041, 11042, 11043. Various sizes of staples are configured to be formed with the forming pocket arrangement 11000. Larger staple diameters can provide double tangential contact with the side walls of the forming pocket as discussed above. Smaller diameter clamps can provide full contact with the bottom 11035 of the forming pocket 11030 during forming.

[00614] Having grooves formed on the forming surfaces of forming pockets can encourage the staples to form flatter than staples formed with forming pockets without grooves formed on their forming surfaces, especially when the staples are misaligned with the geometric axis from the training pocket during training. Referring now to Figures 154 and 155, a clip 13301 is illustrated in a fully formed configuration which was formed with forming pocket arrangement 10100 (Figure 154) and a clip 13401 is illustrated in a fully formed configuration which was formed with the formation pocket arrangement 10600 (Figure 155). Staples 13301, 13401 were misaligned with their respective pocket axes 10103, 10603 during forming. As can be seen from the side views 13300, 13400 of the fully formed staples 13301, 13401, a forming surface groove may not effect the resulting forming configuration in that plane. Turning now to bottom views 13300', 13400' of clips 13301, 13401, clip 13401 comprises a fully formed and flatter configuration than clip 13301. Prongs 13304 of clip 13301 can exit the forming pocket arrangement 10100 in a direction pointed away from the pocket axis 10103. The legs 13303 of the clip 13301 may form in the opposite direction to the crown 13302 by defining a tip forming offset distance 13305. The tips 13404 of the clip 13401 are encouraged to exit of the forming pocket arrangement 10600 along the axis of the pocket 10603. The legs 13403 of the clamp 13401 may form in the opposite direction of the crown 13402 less than those of the clamp 13301 by defining a tip forming offset distance 13405 that, in that In this case, it is less than the tip formation offset distance 13305.

Examples

[00615] Example 1 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable in relation to the first claw, and a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples, each staple comprising a wire defined by a diameter of clip, and wherein each clip comprises clip legs. The stapling assembly further comprises an anvil configured to deform the staples, the anvil comprising a tissue contacting surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the flat surface, wherein the pair of forming pockets are configured to deform the staple legs of a staple. The pair of forming pockets comprise a proximal forming pocket comprising a forming surface, wherein the forming surface comprises an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature and an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature comprise a ratio of 1.5:1 to 3:1, and wherein the first radius of curvature is between 8 times and 10 times greater than the diameter of the staple and a distal training pocket.

[00616] Example 2 - The stapling set of Example 1, where the ratio is about 2:1.

[00617] Example 3 - The stapling assembly of Examples 1 or 2, in which the first radius of curvature is about 9 times greater than the diameter of the staple.

[00618] Example 4 - The stapling assembly of Examples 1, 2 or 3, in which the second radius of curvature is between 4 and 6 times greater than the diameter of the staple.

[00619] Example 5 - The stapling assembly of Examples 1, 2, 3 or 4, in which the second radius of curvature is about 4.5 times greater than the diameter of the staple.

[00620] Example 6 - The stapling assembly of Examples 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, in which the pair of forming pockets defines a crest between them, in which the crest comprises a crest width, and in that the ridge width is less than the staple diameter.

[00621] Example 7 - The stapling assembly of Examples 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, in which the diameter is between 0.0079 inch and 0.0094 inch.

[00622] Example 8 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable in relation to the first claw, and a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples, each staple comprising a pair of staple legs that extends from a staple base, and wherein the staple base comprises a length of staple base. The stapling assembly further comprises an anvil configured to deform the staples. The anvil comprises a fabric contact surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the tissue contact surface, wherein the pair of forming pockets are configured to deform the legs of a staple. The pair of forming pockets comprise a proximal forming pocket comprising a forming surface, wherein the forming surface comprises an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature and an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature comprise a ratio of 1.5:1 to 3:1, and wherein the first radius of curvature is greater than 0.6 times the length of the staple base, and a distal training pocket.

[00623] Example 9 - The stapling set of Example 8, where the ratio is about 2:1.

[00624] Example 10 - The stapling assembly of Examples 8 or 9, in which each staple comprises a staple diameter, and in which the first radius of curvature is between 8 times and 10 times greater than the staple diameter.

[00625] Example 11 - The stapling assembly of Examples 8, 9 or 10, in which each staple comprises a staple diameter, and in which the first radius of curvature is about 9 times greater than the staple diameter.

[00626] Example 12 - The clipping assembly of Examples 8, 9, 10 or 11, in which each clip comprises a clip diameter, and in which the second radius of curvature is between 4 times and 6 times greater than the clamp diameter.

[00627] Example 13 - The stapling assembly of Examples 8,9, 10, 11, or 12, in which each staple comprises a staple diameter, and in which the second radius of curvature is about 4.5 times greater than the clamp diameter.

[00628] Example 14 - The stapling assembly of Examples 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, or 13, in which each staple comprises a staple diameter, and in which the pair of formation pockets defines a ridge between them , wherein the ridge comprises a ridge width, and wherein the ridge width is less than 1 times the staple diameter.

[00629] Example 15 - The stapling assembly of Examples 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 or 14, in which the staple diameter is between 0.0079 inch and 0.0094 inch.

[00630] Example 16 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable in relation to the first claw, and a fastener cartridge comprising a plurality of fasteners, each fastener being comprised of a thread having a wire diameter, and wherein each fastener comprises fastener legs. The clipping assembly further comprises an anvil configured to deform the fasteners. The anvil comprises a fabric contacting surface and a first and second fastener forming feature defined on the fabric contacting surface, wherein the first and second fastener forming features are configured to deform the legs of a fastener. The first and second fastener forming features comprise a first forming surface, wherein the forming surface comprises an entry region comprising a first radius of curvature and an exit region comprising a second radius of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature comprise a ratio of 1.2:1 to 3.3:1, and wherein the first radius of curvature is between about 7 and about 11 times greater than the wire diameter, and a second forming feature.

[00631] Example 17 - The stapling set of Example 16, where the ratio is about 2:1.

[00632] Example 18 - The stapling assembly of Examples 16 or 17, in which the first radius of curvature is about 9 times greater than the diameter of the wire.

[00633] Example 19 - The stapling assembly of Examples 16, 17 or 18, in which the second radius of curvature is between about 4 times and about 6 times greater than the wire diameter.

[00634] Example 20 - The stapling set of Examples 16, 17, 18 or 19, in which the second radius of curvature is 4.5 times greater than the diameter of the wire.

[00635] Example 21 - The stapling assembly of Examples 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20, in which the first and second fastener forming features define a central portion therebetween, in which the central portion comprises a width , and where the width is less than the wire diameter.

[00636] Example 22 - The stapling assembly of Examples 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 21, in which the wire diameter is between 0.0075 inch and 0.0098 inch.

[00637] Example 23 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable with respect to the first claw, and a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples. The stapling assembly further comprises an anvil configured to deform the staples. The anvil comprises a fabric-engaging surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the fabric-engaging surface and aligned along a longitudinal pocket axis, wherein the pair of forming pockets are configured to deform corresponding legs of a clamp. The pair of forming pockets comprises a proximal forming pocket comprising a forming surface, wherein the forming surface comprises an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature and an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature, and wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature are different and a pair of sidewalls extending between the forming surface and the fabric-engaging surface. Each sidewall comprises a first distinct sidewall portion defining a first plane oriented at a first angle relative to the fabric contacting surface and a second distinct sidewall portion defining a second plane oriented at a second angle relative to the surface. of contact with the tissue, where the first angle and the second angle are different. The pair of training pockets further comprises a distal training pocket.

[00638] Example 24 - The stapling set of Example 23, in which the background is positioned at an angle to the longitudinal geometric axis of the pocket.

[00639] Example 25 - The stapling set of Examples 23 or 24, in which the second angle is greater than the first angle.

[00640] Example 26 - The stapling set of Examples 23, 24, or 25, where the second angle is between 80 degrees and 90 degrees.

[00641] Example 27 - The stapling assembly of Examples 23, 24, 25 or 26, in which each side wall of the pair of side walls further comprises a central side wall portion extending between the fabric contact surface and the second distinct sidewall portion.

[00642] Example 28 - The stapling assembly of Examples 23, 24, 25, 26 or 27, in which a transition between the forming surface of each sidewall of the pair of sidewalls comprises a fillet edge.

[00643] Example 29 - The stapling assembly of Examples 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 or 28, in which a transition between the distinct sidewall portions comprises a fillet edge.

[00644] Example 30 - The stapling set of Examples 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 or 29 in which a transition between distinct sidewall portions crosses the formation surface in a transition between the entry zone and the exit zone.

[00645] Example 31 - The stapling set of Examples 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 or 30, in which the pair of formation pockets defines a ridge between them, and in which the formation surface comprises a first end comprising a first width, a second end comprising a second width, wherein the second width is less than the first width, and wherein the second end defines an edge of the ridge, and a valley positioned between the first end and the second end, wherein the valley comprises a third width which is less than the second width.

[00646] Example 32 - The stapling set of Example 32, where the valley is closer to the second end than to the first end.

[00647] Example 33 - The stapling assembly of Examples 31 and 32, in which each staple comprises a staple diameter, in which the staple diameter is between 0.0079 inches and 0.0094 inches, and in which the third width is greater than 0.0094 inch.

[00648] Example 34 - The stapling set of Examples 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 or 33, in which the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature comprise a ratio from 1.5:1 to 3:1.

[00649] Example 35 - The stapling set of Examples 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, or 34, where the ratio is 2:1.

[00650] Example 36 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable with respect to the first claw, and a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples. The stapling assembly further comprises an anvil configured to deform the staples. The anvil comprises a fabric-engaging surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the fabric-engaging surface and aligned along a longitudinal pocket axis, wherein the pair of forming pockets are configured to deform corresponding legs of a clamp. The pair of training pockets comprises a proximal training pocket comprising a proximal end, a distal end and a training zone. The forming zone comprises an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature, an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature comprise a ratio between 1.5: 1 and 3:1, and a groove extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The proximal formation pocket further comprises a pair of concave side walls extending between the formation zone and the tissue contact surface, wherein the distance between said concave side walls at the proximal end is greater than the distance between the walls concave sides at the distal end. The pair of training pockets further comprises a distal training pocket.

[00651] Example 37 - The stapling assembly of Example 36, in which each said staple comprises staple legs, and in which the formation pockets are configured to encourage the legs of a staple to come into contact with each other as that the clamp is deformed.

[00652] Example 38 - The stapling assembly of Examples 36, or 37, in which the pair of forming pockets defines a ridge therebetween, and in which the ridge comprises a surface that is substantially parallel to the contact surface with the tissue.

[00653] Example 39 - The stapling assembly of Examples 36, 37, or 38, wherein the distal formation pocket comprises a proximal end, a distal end and a formation zone. The forming zone comprises an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature, an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature comprise a ratio between 1.5: 1 and 3:1, and a groove extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The distal shaping pocket further comprises a pair of concave sidewalls extending between the forming zone and the tissue-contacting surface, wherein the distance between the concave sidewalls at the proximal end is greater than the distance between the sidewalls concave at the distal end, wherein the distal pocket groove and the proximal pocket groove are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pocket, and wherein the distal pocket groove and the proximal pocket groove are parallel to each other.

[00654] Example 40 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable with respect to the first claw, and a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples. The stapling assembly further comprises an anvil configured to deform the staples. The anvil comprises a fabric-engaging surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the fabric-engaging surface and aligned along a longitudinal pocket axis, wherein the pair of forming pockets are configured to deform corresponding legs of a clamp. The pair of forming pockets comprises a proximal forming pocket comprising a forming surface, wherein the forming surface comprises an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature and an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature, and wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature are different, a pair of lead-in side walls oriented at a first angle relative to the tissue contacting surface, and a pair of lead-through side walls oriented at a second angle relative to the tissue-contacting surface, where the first angle is less than the second angle. The pair of training pockets further comprises a distal training pocket.

[00655] Example 41 - The stapling assembly of Example 40, in which the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature comprise a ratio between 1.5:1 to 3:1.

[00656] Example 42 - The stapling set of Examples 40 or 41, where the second angle is 90 degrees.

[00657] Example 43 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable in relation to the first claw, and a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples, each staple comprising a staple diameter. The stapling assembly further comprises an anvil configured to deform the staples. The anvil comprises a tissue contacting surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the tissue contacting surface, wherein the pair of forming pockets are configured to deform the legs of a corresponding staple. The pair of forming pockets comprises a proximal forming pocket comprising a forming surface, wherein the forming surface comprises an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature and an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature, a pair of sidewalls extending at an angle from the forming surface toward the tissue contacting surface, and a groove defined in the forming surface, wherein the groove comprises a diameter that is less than the diameter of the clip. The pair of training pockets further comprises a distal training pocket.

[00658] Example 44 - The stapling set of Example 43, in which the groove is positioned only in the exit zone.

[00659] Example 45 - The stapling assembly of Examples 43 or 44, wherein said groove comprises two longitudinal edges configured to provide double tangential contact between each longitudinal edge and a staple.

[00660] Example 46 - The stapling assembly of Examples 43, 44, or 45, in which the groove and the forming surface comprise a fillet transition between the groove and the forming surface.

[00661] Example 47 - The stapling assembly of Examples 43, 44, 45 or 46, in which the pair of formation pockets defines a longitudinal geometric axis of the pocket, and in which said pair of formation pockets is bilaterally symmetrical in with respect to said longitudinal geometric axis of the pocket.

[00662] Example 48 - The stapling set of Examples 43, 44, 45 or 46, in which the pair of formation pockets defines a longitudinal geometric axis of the pocket, and in which the pair of formation pockets is bilaterally asymmetrical in relation to to the longitudinal geometric axis of the pocket.

[00663] Example 49 - The stapling assembly of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, or 48, in which the groove does not cross the longitudinal axis of the pocket.

[00664] Example 50 - The stapling assembly of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46, 47 or 48, in which the groove comprises a first portion positioned on a first side of the longitudinal axis of the pocket and a second portion positioned on a second side of the longitudinal axis of the pocket, where the groove intersects the longitudinal axis of the pocket.

[00665] Example 51 - the stapling assembly of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 or 50, in which the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature are different.

[00666] Example 52 - the clipping assembly of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or 51, in which each clip comprises a clip diameter, and in which the clip diameter is between 0 .0079 inch and 0.0094 inch.

[00667] Example 53 - The stapling assembly of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51 or 52, in which the groove comprises a diameter of less than 0.0094 inches but greater than 0. 0079 inch.

[00668] Example 54 - The stapling assembly of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51 or 52, in which the groove comprises a diameter of less than 0.0079 inches.

[00669] Example 55 - The staple cartridge assembly of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53 or 54, in which the groove extends from a portion of the entry zone through a portion of the exit zone.

[00670] Example 56 - The stapling assembly of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54 or 55, in which the groove extends from a portion of the entry zone through the entire exit zone.

[00671] Example 57 - The stapling assembly of Examples 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, or 56, in which the forming surface comprises an end proximal end and a distal end, wherein the groove comprises a first diameter at the proximal end and a second diameter at the distal end, and wherein the second width is greater than the first width.

[00672] Example 58 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable in relation to the first claw, a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples, each staple comprising a wire having a wire diameter per , and wherein each clip comprises clip legs, and an anvil configured to deform the clips. The anvil comprises a fabric contact surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the tissue contact surface, wherein the pair of forming pockets are configured to deform the legs of a staple. The pair of forming pockets comprises a proximal forming pocket comprising a forming surface, wherein the forming surface comprises an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature and an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature, a pair of sidewalls extending between the forming surface and the tissue contact surface, and a tip control channel defined in the forming surface, wherein the tip control channel defines a tip control axis , and wherein the tip control channel comprises a diameter smaller than the diameter of the wire. The pair of training pockets further comprises a distal training pocket.

[00673] Example 59 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable with respect to the first claw, a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples, and an anvil configured to deform the staples. The anvil comprises a tissue contacting surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the tissue contacting surface, wherein the pair of forming pockets are configured to deform the legs of a corresponding staple. The pair of training pockets comprises a longitudinal pocket axis, a proximal training pocket and a distal training pocket. The proximal forming pocket comprises a forming surface comprising an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature and an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature, and a tip control channel defined in the forming surface, in that the nose control channel defines a nose control axis, and wherein the nose control axis and the longitudinal axis of the pocket are not parallel.

[00674] Example 60 - The stapling assembly of Example 59, in which the distal formation pocket comprises a formation surface comprising an entry zone comprising a first radius of curvature and an exit zone comprising a second radius of curvature curvature. The distal shaping pocket further comprises a point control channel defined in the forming surface, where the point control channel defines a point control axis, and where the point control axes are parallel.

[00675] Example 61 - The stapling assembly of Example 60, in which the tip control axis of the tip control channel of the proximal formation pocket is positioned on a first side of the longitudinal axis of the pocket, and in which the tip control said of the tip control channel of the distal forming pocket is positioned on a second side of the longitudinal axis of the pocket.

[00676] Example 62 - The stapling assembly of Examples 59, 60, or 61, in which the proximal formation pocket and the distal formation pocket define a bridging portion therebetween, and in which the bridging portion is positioned at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the pocket.

[00677] Example 63 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable in relation to the first claw, and a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples, and an anvil configured to deform the staples. The anvil comprises a tissue contacting surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the tissue contacting surface, wherein the pair of forming pockets are configured to deform the legs of a corresponding staple. The pair of formation pockets comprises a longitudinal axis of the pocket, an intermediate axis comprising a center point, a proximal formation pocket, and a distal formation pocket, wherein the pair of formation pockets are bilaterally symmetrical with respect to each other. longitudinal axis of the pocket, wherein the pair of forming pockets are bilaterally asymmetric with respect to the intermediate axis, and wherein the pair of forming pockets are rotationally asymmetric with respect to the center point.

[00678] Example 64 - The stapling assembly of Example 63, in which the proximal pocket-forming pocket comprises a proximal pocket-forming surface comprising a proximal pocket entry zone and a proximal pocket exit zone, wherein the The proximal pocket entry zone comprises a first radius of curvature and the proximal pocket exit zone comprises a second radius of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature are different, wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature define a first curvature ratio, and wherein the distal pocket forming surface comprises a distal pocket forming surface comprising a distal pocket entry region and a distal pocket exit region, wherein the The distal pocket entry zone comprises a third radius of curvature and the distal pocket exit zone comprises a fourth radius of curvature, wherein the third radius of curvature and the fourth radius of curvature are different, wherein the third radius of curvature and the fourth radius of curvature define a second curvature ratio, and wherein the first curvature ratio and the second curvature ratio are different.

[00679] Example 65 - The stapling assembly of Example 63, in which the proximal pocket formation comprises a proximal pocket formation surface comprising a proximal pocket entry zone and a proximal pocket exit zone, wherein the The proximal pocket entry zone comprises a first radius of curvature and the proximal pocket exit zone comprises a second radius of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature are different, wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature define a first curvature ratio, and wherein the distal pocket forming surface comprises a distal pocket forming surface comprising a distal pocket entry region and a distal pocket exit region, wherein the The distal pocket entry zone comprises a third radius of curvature and the distal pocket exit zone comprises a fourth radius of curvature, wherein the third radius of curvature and the fourth radius of curvature are different, wherein the third radius of curvature and the fourth radius of curvature define a second radius of curvature, where the first radius of curvature and the third radius of curvature are different, where the second radius of curvature and the fourth radius of curvature are different, and where the first radius of curvature curvature ratio and the second curvature ratio are the same.

[00680] Example 66 - The stapling assembly of Examples 63, 64, or 65, wherein the proximal pocket forming surface comprises a proximal pocket forming surface, wherein the proximal pocket forming surface comprises a valley depth of proximal pocket, wherein the distal pocket forming surface comprises a distal pocket forming surface, wherein the distal pocket forming surface comprises a distal pocket valley depth, and wherein the proximal pocket valley depth and the depth of distal pocket valley are different.

[00681] Example 67 - The stapling set of Example 66, in which the proximal pocket valley depth is greater than the distal pocket valley depth.

[00682] Example 68 - The stapling set of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, or 67, in which the pair of training pockets define an intermediate data between the proximal training pocket and the distal training pocket, and in that the intermediate die is positioned at the center point defined between a proximal end of the proximal training pocket and a distal end of the distal training pocket.

[00683] Example 69 - The stapling set of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66 or 67, in which the pair of formation pockets define an intermediate data between the proximal formation pocket and the distal formation pocket, and in which the intermediate die is positioned at a point beyond the center point defined between a proximal end of the proximal formation pocket and a distal end of the distal formation pocket.

[00684] Example 70 - The stapling set of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68 or 69, in which each formation pocket comprises an entry zone configured to receive the ends of the corresponding staples, and in which the zone entry zone of the distal formation pocket is greater than the entrance zone of the proximal formation pocket.

[00685] Example 71 - The stapling assembly of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69 or 70, wherein the corresponding legs of a staple comprise an equal leg height.

[00686] Example 72 - The stapling assembly of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70 or 71, in which the proximal formation pocket comprises a proximal pocket formation surface and a pair of walls lateral sides extending between the proximal pocket-forming surface and the tissue-contacting surface at a first angle to the tissue-contacting surface, wherein the distal pocket-forming surface comprises a distal pocket-forming surface and a pair of sidewalls extending between the distal pocket-forming surface and the tissue-contacting surface at a second angle relative to the tissue-contacting surface, wherein the first angle is different from the second angle.

[00687] Example 73 - The stapling set of Example 72, in which the first angle is smaller than the second angle.

[00688] Example 74 - The stapling assembly of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72 or 73, in which the proximal pocket formation comprises a proximal pocket formation surface that comprises a proximal entry width and a proximal exit width, wherein the distal pocket forming surface comprises a distal pocket forming surface comprising a distal entry width and a distal exit width, wherein the proximal entry width is different from the distal entry width, and where the proximal exit width is different from the distal exit width.

[00689] Example 75 - The stapling assembly of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73 or 74, in which the proximal forming pocket comprises a pocket forming surface proximal pocket and a pair of discrete sidewalls extending between the proximal pocket-forming surface and the tissue-contacting surface, wherein the distal pocket-forming surface comprises a distal pocket-forming surface and a pair of discrete sidewalls that extend between the distal pocket-forming surface and the tissue-contacting surface.

[00690] Example 76 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable with respect to the first claw, a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples, and an anvil configured to deform the staples. The anvil comprises a tissue contact surface and a row of forming pockets defined in the tissue contact surface, wherein the forming pockets are configured to deform corresponding legs of the staples. The row of forming pockets comprises a staple row axis, a first zone of forming pocket pairs positioned along a first portion of the staple row axis, wherein the first zone forming pocket pairs comprise a first geometry, and a second zone of forming pocket pairs positioned along a second portion of the staple row axis, wherein the forming pocket pairs of the second zone comprise a second geometry, and wherein the first geometry is different from the second geometry. Each second zone forming pocket pair comprises a longitudinal pocket axis, an intermediate axis comprising a center point, a proximal forming pocket, and a distal forming pocket, wherein the second zone forming pocket pairs are bilaterally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of the pocket, wherein the second zone forming pocket pairs are bilaterally asymmetrical about the intermediate axis, and wherein the pair of forming pockets are rotationally asymmetrical about the center point .

[00691] Example 77 - A stapling assembly comprising a first claw, a second claw movable with respect to the first claw, a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples, and an anvil configured to deform the staples. The anvil comprises a tissue contacting surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the tissue contacting surface, wherein the pair of forming pockets are configured to deform the legs of a corresponding staple. The pair of formation pockets comprises a longitudinal pocket axis, an intermediate axis comprising a center point, a proximal formation pocket and a distal formation pocket, wherein the pair of formation pockets is bilaterally asymmetric with respect to the longitudinal pocket axis and the intermediate axis, and in which the pair of forming pockets are rotationally asymmetric about the center point.

[00692] Example 78 - The stapling assembly of Example 77, in which the geometry of the proximal formation pocket and the geometry of the distal formation pocket are the same.

[00693] Example 79 - The stapling assembly of Examples 77 or 78, in which the proximal formation pocket and the distal formation pocket each comprise a formation surface and a groove defined in the formation surface that extends between a first side from the longitudinal axis of the pocket and a second side from the longitudinal axis of the pocket.

[00694] Example 80 - The stapling assembly of Example 79, in which the proximal formation pocket and the distal formation pocket each comprise a fillet transition between the groove and the formation surface.

[00695] Example 81 - The clipping assembly of Examples 79 or 80, in which each clip comprises a clip diameter, and in which the groove comprises a diameter smaller than the clip diameter.

[00696] Example 82 - The clipping assembly, according to Examples 79 or 80, in which each clip comprises a clip diameter, and in which the groove comprises a diameter greater than the clip diameter.

[00697] Many of the surgical instrument systems described here are driven by an electric motor; however, the surgical instrument systems described herein may be induced in any suitable manner. In various examples, the surgical instrument systems described herein can be triggered, for example, by a manually operated trigger. In certain instances, the motors disclosed herein may comprise a portion or portions of a robotically controlled system. Furthermore, any of the end actuators and/or tool assemblies disclosed in the present invention can be used with a robotic surgical instrument system. US Pat.

[00698] The surgical instrument systems described herein were described in connection with implantation and deformation of staples; however, the embodiments described in the present invention are not so limited. Several modalities are foreseen, which implant fasteners in addition to staples, such as claws or tacks, for example. Furthermore, various embodiments are contemplated which utilize any suitable means to seal the tissue. For example, an end actuator, in accordance with various embodiments, may comprise electrodes configured to heat and seal tissue. Also, for example, an end actuator according to certain embodiments, can apply vibrational energy to seal the tissue.

[00699] All descriptions of:

[00700] - US Patent No. 5,403,312, entitled "ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE", which was granted on April 4, 1995;

[00701] - US Patent No. 7,000,818, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS", which was granted on February 21, 2006;

[00702] - 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;

[00703] - US Patent No. 7,464,849, entitled "ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS", which was granted on December 16, 2008;

[00704] - US Patent No. 7,670,334, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN ARTICULATING END EFFECTOR", which was granted on March 2, 2010;

[00705] - US Patent No. 7,753,245, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS", which was granted on July 13, 2010;

[00706] - US Patent No. 8,393,514, entitled "SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE", which was granted on March 12, 2013;

[00707] - US Patent Application Serial No. 11/343,803, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES"; now US Patent No. 7,845,537;

[00708] - US Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,573, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES", filed on February 14, 2008;

[00709] - US Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,873, entitled "END EFFECTORS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT", filed on February 15, 2008, now US Patent No. 7,980,443;

[00710] - US Patent Application Serial No. 12/235,782, entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT", now US Patent No. 8,210,411;

[00711] - 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;

[00712] - US Patent Application Serial No. 12/647,100, entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ASSEMBLY", filed on December 24, 2009; now US Patent No. 8,220,688;

[00713] - US Patent Application Serial No. 12/893,461, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE", filed on September 29, 2012, now US Patent No. 8,733,613;

[00714] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/036,647, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT", filed on February 28, 2011, now US Patent No. 8,561,870;

[00715] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/118,241, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent No. 2012/9,072,535;

[00716] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/524,049, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE", filed on June 15, 2012; currently US Patent No. 9,101,358;

[00717] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,025, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on March 13, 2013, now US Patent No. 2014/9,345,481;

[00718] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on March 13, 2013, now publication of US Patent Application No. 2014/0263552;

[00719] - publication of US Patent Application No. 2007/0175955, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM", filed on January 31, 2006; It is

[00720] - publication of US Patent Application No. 2010/0264194, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR", filed on April 22, 2010, now US Patent No. 8,308,040, are hereby incorporated by reference .

[00721] Although various devices have been described herein in connection with certain embodiments, modifications and variations of these embodiments can be implemented. Specific resources, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable way in one or more embodiments. Therefore, specific features, structures or characteristics illustrated or described in conjunction with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with features, structures or characteristics of one or more other embodiments, without limitation. Additionally, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may be used. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, a single component can be replaced by multiple components and multiple components can be replaced by a single component to perform one or more specified functions. The aforementioned description and embodiments are intended to cover all such modifications and variations.

[00722] The devices disclosed herein can be designed so that they are discarded after a single use, or can be designed so that they are used multiple times. In either case, however, a device can be refurbished for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning may include any combination of steps including, but not limited to, device disassembly followed by cleaning or replacement of specific device parts and subsequent device reassembly. In particular, a reconditioning facility and/or surgical team can disassemble a device and, after cleaning and/or replacing particular parts of the device, the device can be reassembled for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will understand that refurbishing a device can use a variety of techniques to disassemble, clean/replace, and reassemble. Use of these techniques, as well as the resulting refurbished device, are all within the scope of this application.

[00723] The devices disclosed here can be processed prior to surgery. First, a new or used instrument can be obtained and, if necessary, cleaned. The instrument can then be sterilized. In a sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed, sealed container, such as a plastic bag or TYVEK. The container and instrument can then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, X-rays and/or high energy electrons. Radiation can kill bacteria in the instrument and container. The sterilized instrument can then be stored in a sterile container. The sealed container can keep the instrument sterile until it is opened in the medical facility. A device may also be sterilized using any other known technique, including, but not limited to, beta radiation, gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, plasma peroxide, and/or water vapor.

[00724] Although this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of the description. It is therefore intended that this application cover any variations, uses or adaptations of the invention using its general principles.

[00725] Any patent, publication or other descriptive material, in whole or in part, which is said to be incorporated into the present invention by way of reference, is incorporated into the present invention only to the extent that the incorporated materials do not conflict with existing definitions, statements or other descriptive material presented in this description. Accordingly, and to the extent necessary, the description as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated into the present invention by way of reference. Any material, or portion thereof, incorporated herein by reference but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other descriptive materials presented herein, is incorporated herein only to the extent that there is no conflict between the material incorporated and existing descriptive material.

Claims (6)

1. Stapling assembly, comprising: a first gripper; a second claw movable with respect to said first claw; a staple cartridge (116) comprising a plurality of staples, each staple comprising a wire defined by a staple diameter, and each staple comprising staple legs; and an anvil (114) configured to deform the staples, the anvil (114) comprising: a tissue-engaging surface (10307); and a pair of forming pockets (10310, 10330) defined in the fabric engaging surface (10307), wherein the pair of forming pockets (10310, 10330) are configured to deform the staple legs of a staple, characterized by fact that the pair of forming pockets (10310, 10330) comprises: a proximal forming pocket (10310) comprising a forming surface (10311, 10312), wherein the forming surface (10311, 10312) comprises a zone entry zone (10311) comprising a first radius of curvature (10317) and an exit zone (10312) comprising a second radius of curvature (10318), wherein the first radius of curvature (10317) and the second radius of curvature (10318) comprise a ratio of 1.5:1 to 3:1, and wherein the first radius of curvature (10317) is between 8 and 10 times larger than the clamp diameter, and wherein the second radius of curvature ( 10318) is between 4 and 6 times larger than the clamp diameter; and a distal shaping pocket (10330). 2. Stapling assembly, according to claim 1, characterized in that the ratio is 2:1. 3. Stapling assembly, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first radius of curvature (10317) is 9 times greater than the diameter of the clamp. 4. Stapling assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the second radius of curvature (10318) is 4.5 times greater than the diameter of the clamp. 5. Stapling assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the pair of forming pockets (10310, 10330) define a ridge between them, in which the ridge comprises a ridge width and where the crest width is less than the staple diameter. 6. Stapling assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the staple diameter is between 0.2001 millimeters (0.0079 inches) and 0.2388 millimeters (0.0094 inches).