MXPA99001986A - Ophthalmic microsurgical system employing flash eeprom and reprogrammable modules - Google Patents

Abstract

This invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. The microsurgical instruments are for use by a user such as a surgeon in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a data communications bus (101), and a user interface connected to the data communications bus. The user interface provides information to the user and receives information from the user which is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes surgical modules (13) connected to and controlling the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The surgical modules are also connected to the data communications bus.

Description

OPTICAL MICRO-CHRONIC SYSTEM THAT USES INSTANT EEPROM AND PROGRAMMABLE MODULES Technical Field This invention relates generally to microsurgical and ophthalmic systems and, particularly, to a control system for the operation of surgical instruments.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Currently, ophthalmic microsurgical systems provide one or more surgical instruments connected to a control console. The instruments are often electrically or pneumatically actuated and the control console provides electrical control signals or fluid pressure signals for the operation of the instruments. The control console normally includes several different types of controllers operable by man to generate the control signals supplied to the surgical instruments. Frequently, the surgeon uses a pedal controller to remotely control surgical instruments. The conventional console has pushbutton switches and adjustable buttons to adjust the desired operating characteristics of the system. The conventional control system normally serves several different functions. For example, the typical ophthalmic microsurgical system has anterior and / or posterior segment capabilities and may include a variety of functions, such as irrigation / aspiration, vitrectomy, icrosy cutting, fiber optic illumination, and fragmentation / emulsification. Although microsurgical systems and ophthalmic systems have helped make microsurgery and ophthalmic surgery possible, these systems have drawbacks. The microsurgical and ophthalmic systems are relatively expensive and are often purchased by hospitals and clinics to be shared among many surgeons with different specialties. In ocular surgery, for example, some surgeons may be specialized in anterior segment procedures, while other surgeons may specialize in posterior segment procedures. Due to the differences in these procedures, the control system does not adjust with the same operating characteristics for both procedures. In addition, due to the delicate nature of eye surgery, the responsiveness or "tact" of the system may be a concern for surgeons practicing in several different hospitals, who use different equipment products and models. United States Patents N2s 4,933. 843, 5,157,603, 5,417,246 and 5,455,766, all of which are commonly assigned and whose complete descriptions are incorporated herein by reference, describe improved microsurgical control systems. For example, such systems provide improved uniformity of performance characteristics, while providing sufficient flexibility in the system to accommodate a variety of different procedures. The systems shown in these patents improve upon the prior art by providing a universal and programmable microsurgical control system, which can be easily programmed to perform a variety of different surgical procedures and which can be programmed to provide the response characteristics that any given surgeon may require. The control system is preprogrammed to perform a variety of different functions to provide a variety of different procedures. These preprogrammed functions can be selected by pressing front panel buttons. In addition to the pre-programmed functions, these patents describe providing each surgeon with a programming key, which includes a digital memory circuit loaded with particular response characteristic parameters and parameters of particular surgical procedures selected by that surgeon. By inserting the key into the frame of the system console, the system automatically adjusts to respond in a manner familiar to each surgeon. For maximum versatility, the console buttons and potentiometer buttons are programmable. Its functions and response characteristics can be changed to suit the needs of surgeons. An electronic representation screen on the console represents the current function of each button and programmable button as well as other relevant information. The rendering screen lights up on its own so you can easily read in dark operating rooms. Although the systems described above provide improvements over the prior art, additional improvements are needed to improve performance, simplify operation, simplify repair and replacement, reduce time and cost of repairs, etc. Description of the Invention Among the various objectives of this invention may be indicated the provision of an improved system that allows network communications between its components; the provision of a system of this type that is modular; the provision of a system of this type that allows distributed control of its components; the provision of a system of this type that is automatically reconfigured when connected; the provision of such a system that allows operation in a number of different ways; the provision of a system of this type operating in different ways in a predefined sequence, the provision of such a system that allows adaptation to different configurations; the provision of a system of this type that is easily reprogrammable; and the provision of a system circuit of this type that is economically feasible and commercially practical. Briefly described, a system incorporating aspects of the invention controls a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses microsurgical instruments to perform ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a data communications bus and a user interface connected to the data communications bus. The user interface provides information to the user and receives information from the user that is representative of the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes first and second surgical modules. Each surgical module is connected and controls one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The surgical modules are also connected to the data communications bus that provides data communication representative of the parameters of - operation between the user interface and the first and second surgical modules. In particular, the data can be transmitted between the surgical modules and / or between the user interface and one or more surgical modules. Aer embodiment of the invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses microsurgical instruments in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a data communications bus and a user interface connected to the data communications bus. The user interface provides information to the user and receives information from the user that is representative of the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes a surgical module and a remote control circuit. The surgical module is connected and controls one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The remote control circuit is connected to and controls a remote control unit as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The remote control unit works to change the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments during the performance of the surgical procedures. Both the surgical module and the control circuit are also connected to the data communications bus which provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the surgical module and the remote control circuit. In particular, the data can be transmitted between the surgical module and the control circuit and / or between the user interface and n either or both the surgical module and the control circuit. Yet aer embodiment of the invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses microsurgical instruments in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a user interface that provides information to the user and receives information from the user that is representative of the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes a memory that stores a plurality of operating parameters. A central processor retrieves a set of operating parameters from the memory for the microsurgical instruments. The set of operating parameters retrieved by the central processor approximates an individualized set of operating parameters selected by the surgeon provided by the user through the user interface. The system also includes a connected surgical module that controls one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of the set of operating parameters recovered from the memory. Still aer embodiment of the invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses microsurgical instruments in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a user interface that provides information to the user and receives information from the user that is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes a memory that stores a plurality of operating parameters that are recoverable from the memory as a function of modes selected by the user. Each mode is representative of one or more surgical procedures that must be performed and is defined by the operation of at least one of the microsurgical instruments. A central processor retrieves a set of operating parameters from the memory for the micro-surgical instruments that must be used in one of the selected modes. The system also includes a connected surgical module that controls one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of the set of operating parameters recovered from the memory. Another system incorporating aspects of the invention controls a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. An user, such as a surgeon, uses microsurgical instruments in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a data communications bus and a user interface connected to the data communications bus. The user interface, which includes a central processor, provides information to the user and receives information from the user that is representative of the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes a surgical module that is connected to and controls one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The surgical module has an instantaneous EEPROM that stores executable routines to control the corresponding microsurgical instrument connected thereto during the performance of the surgical procedures and is connected to the data communications bus. The data communications bus provides data communication representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the module and the central processor reprograms the instant EEPROM memory through the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user . In another embodiment, the invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses microsurgical instruments in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a data communications bus and a user interface connected to the data communications bus. The user interface, which includes a central processor, provides information to the user and receives information from the user that is representative of the operating parameters of the surgical instruments. The system also includes a surgical module that is connected to and controls one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The surgical module is connected to the data communication bus which provides data communication representative of the operating parameters _ between the user interface and the module. In this case, the central processor executes routines to identify and initialize the module that communicates through the data communications bus. Yet another embodiment of the invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses microsurgical instruments in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a user interface that provides and represents information to the user and receives information from the user that is representative of operating parameters of the ophthalmic procedures and operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments that are used by the surgeon in performing the ophthalmic procedure. The user selects a particular procedure through the user interface. A suction module of the system is adapted to receive different microsurgical cassettes, each having an insert that bears a different color. Each color indicates the procedure for which the cassette is used. The system also includes a sensor to detect the color of the insert that is colored when the cassettes are received in the system and to provide information to the user interface when the color of the insert that carries color of the cassette received by the system does not correspond to the particular procedure selected. Alternatively, the invention may comprise several other systems and methods. Other objects and characteristics will be partly apparent and partly indicated below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view of a microsurgical control system according to the invention for use with ophthalmic microsurgical instruments and having a plurality of modules. Figure 2 is a block diagram of the system of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view of a base unit of the system of Figure 1. Figure 4 is a perspective of the base unit shown without a front cover. Figure 5 is a front elevation view of a base unit chassis. Figure 6 is a top plan of the base unit chassis. Figure 7 is a rear elevation view of the base unit. Figure 8 is a left side elevation view of the front cover of the base unit.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a typical module of the system of Figure 1. Figure 10 is a rear elevational view of the module. Figure 11 is a fragmentary bottom plane of the module. Figure 12 is a perspective of a typical base unit and module assembly. Figure 13 is a fragmentary cross section taken in the plane of the line 5B-5B of Figure 7, but with a module installed in the base unit. Figure 14 is a fragmentary cross-section taken in the plane of the line 5C-5C of Figure 13. Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of a communication network according to the invention. Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram of a terminating circuit for selectively terminating the network of Fig. 15. Fig. 17 and 18 are a block diagram of a user interface computer according to a preferred embodiment of the system. Figure 1. Figure 19 is a block diagram of a communication network circuit for the user interface computer of Figures 17-18. Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of a termination circuit of the network circuit of Figure 19 to selectively terminate the network. Figure 21 is a block diagram of the system of Figure 1 illustrating the data flow in the system according to the invention. Fig. 22 is an exemplary representation screen of a numeric keypad according to the invention.

Figures 23 and 24 are exemplary flow diagrams illustrating the operation of the central processor in the user interface computer to define modes of operation and sequences of modes for the system. Figures 25 and 26 are exemplary flow diagrams illustrating the operation of the central processor in the user interface computer to adapt established files for the system. Figures 27-30 are exemplary screen representations generated by the user interface computer to select an operating mode according to the invention. Figure 31 is an exemplary flow chart illustrating the operation of a central processor in the user interface computer to automatically configure the system. Fig. 32 is a block diagram of an irrigation, aspiration and / or vitrectomy module according to a preferred embodiment of the system of Fig. 1. Fig. 33 is a block diagram of a phacoemulsification module and / or FIG. 34 is a block diagram of an air / fluid exchange module, electric scissors and / or forceps in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the system, according to a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. of Figure 1. Figure 35 is a block diagram of a bipolar coagulation module according to a preferred embodiment of the system of Figure 1. Figure 36 is a block diagram of a lighting module according to a preferred embodiment of the system of Figure 1.

Fig. 37 is a block diagram of a peripheral pedal control circuit according to an embodiment Preferred of the system of Figure 1. Figure 38 is a block diagram of a peripheral intravenous pole control circuit according to a preferred embodiment of the system of Figure 1. Figure 39 is a block diagram of a power module according to a preferred embodiment of the system of Figure 1. Figures 40-42 are schematic diagrams illustrating a back plane of power and communications in the base unit of Figures 3-8. Figures 43-60 are schematic diagrams illustrating the irrigation module, aspiration and / or vitrectomy of Figure 32. Figure 61 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cassette detector for use with the irrigation, aspiration and / or vitrectomy module of Figures 32 and 43-60. Figures 62-88 are schematic diagrams illustrating the phacoemulsification and / or facofragmentation module of Figure 33. Figures 89-103 are schematic diagrams illustrating the air / fluid exchange module, electric scissors and / or forceps of the Figure 34. Figures 104-113 are schematic diagrams illustrating the bipolar coagulation module of Figure 19. Figures 114-125 are schematic diagrams illustrating the module df? illumination of Figure 36. Figures 126-136 are schematic diagrams illustrating the pedal control circuit of Figure 37.

Figures 137-146 are schematic diagrams illustrating the intravenous pole control circuit of Figure 38, and Figures 147 and 148 are schematic diagrams illustrating a pressure sensing circuit for use with a scroll pump according to the invention. with an alternative embodiment of the irrigation, aspiration and / or vitrectomy module of Figures 32 and 43-60. Figures 149 and 150 are schematic diagrams illustrating the power module of Figure 39 to provide power to the rear plane of Figures 40-42.

Mode (s) for Carrying Out the Invention Figure 1 illustrates a microsurgical control system generally designated 1, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the system 1 includes a computer unit 3 having a flat panel display 5, a base unit 7 housing a plurality of modules 13, and peripherals such as a pedal control assembly 15 and a set of motorized intravenous pole (IV) 17 (each of which is generally indicated by its respective reference number). Each of the modules 13 housed in the base unit 7 controls at least one ophthalmic microsurgical instrument 19 for use by a surgeon in performing various ophthalmic surgical procedures. As is well known in the art, ophthalmic microsurgery involves the use of a number of different instruments 19 to perform different functions. These instruments 19 include vitrectomy blades, handpieces for phacoemulsification or phacofragmentation, electric microtiacs, fiber optic illumination instruments, manual coagulation pieces and other microsurgical instruments known in the art. To optimize the performance of instruments ^ 19 during surgery, their operating parameters are differentiated, for example, according to the particular procedure that is performed, the different stages of the procedure, the personal preferences of the surgeon, if the procedure is being performed in the anterior or posterior portion of the patient's eye, and so on. As shown in Figure 1, an instrumentation cart, generally designated 21, supports the system 1. Preferably, the carriage 21 includes a surgical tray, or May 25, the automated IV pole assembly 17, a storage compartment 27 for storing the pedal control assembly 15, disposable packs and other articles, an opening 33 for housing an expansion base unit (not shown in Figure 1), and rotating wheels 35. The base unit 7 and the unit computer 3 preferably sit on top of instrumentation cart 21 as shown in figure 1 and tray May 25 is mounted on a hinge arm (not shown) preferably attached to the top of instrumentation cart 21, directly below the base unit 7. The instrumentation cart 21 also maintains a remote control transmitter, indicated generally with 39, for use in the remote control system 1. In ac According to the invention, the modules 13 in the base unit 7 house control circuits for the various microsurgical instruments 19, so that the user of the system is able to configure the system 1 to optimize its use by the surgeon. As will be described in detail below, the modules. 13 include connections or holes through which one or more microsurgical instruments 19 are connected to each module 13 and house the necessary control circuitry to control the operation of the particular instrument or instruments 19 connected thereto. Therefore, the user, inserting the modules 13 in the base unit 7, configures the system 1 to satisfy a preference of the particular surgeon, to control each of the instruments 19 necessary for a particular surgical procedure, or to optimize otherwise the system 1 for use by the surgeon. As will be described in detail below, the pedal control assembly 15 and the pole assembly 17 include electronic control circuits to control its operation. To support the configurability by the user, the computer unit 3, each of the modules 13, and the control circuits for each of the peripherals, namely, the pedal control assembly 15 and the pole assembly IV, they constitute nodes on a computer network. The computer network provides power distribution and peer-to-peer data communication between the nodes. Referring now to the block diagram of Figure 2, the base unit 7 includes a number of modules 13 that control several microsurgical instruments 19 typically used in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures. In a preferred embodiment, each module 13 controls one or more surgical instruments 19 connected thereto. A power bus and a data communications bus, each placed on a backplane 101 (shown in detail in Figures 5 and 40-42), connects modules 13 together. When received by the base unit 7, the modules 13 are coupled to the rear plane 101 through a connector (e.g., connector 171 in Figure 10) at the rear of each module 13. When they are coupled, the backplane 101 provides power distribution between modules 13 as well as data communication between modules 13 and between modules and computer unit 3. In accordance with the invention, modules 13 also include a power module 103 housed by a base unit 7 which is connected to both an external AC power source and a rear plane 101. The power module 103 provides power to the rear plane 101 and, therefore, provides power to the system 1. According to the invention, a circuit control unit 105 (see figures 37, 126-136) controls the pedal control assembly 15 and a control circuit 107 (see figures 38 and 137-146) controls the assembly of pole IV 17. As described above, the unit of or 3, each module 13 and the control circuits 105, 107 for the peripherals constitute nodes on a computer network. The computer network provides peer-to-peer data communication between the nodes.

In other words, each module 13 is able to communicate directly with the other modules 13, the peripherals and the computer unit 3. As such, the system 1 provides modular control of several different instruments 19 as well as configurability by the user. Referring now to Figure 3, the base unit 7 forms a frame having positions or slots for receiving a plurality of modules 13 that electronically control the operation of the surgical instruments 19 used by a surgeon to perform ophthalmic surgical procedures. Preferably, the base unit 7 includes a chassis (generally designated 109), a top cap 111 having the configuration of an inverted channel, and a front cover or chamfer 113 that can be removed as shown in FIG. 4 to insert and remove modules 13. When the front cover 113 is fixed in place, the rear wall 115 of the lid supports the modules in place within the base unit 7, thereby forming a retainer for retaining the modules in the frame. The front cover 113 is held in place by two fastening devices (not shown) screwed into threaded holes 117 in the front of the chassis 109. In the alternative, the front cover 113 snaps into place. The upper lid 111 includes four circular receptacles 119 for receiving legs on the lower part of the computer unit 3. Each of these receptacles 119 tapers conically to conform to the configuration of the legs of the computer unit and to center the legs in the receptacles. As illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, the chassis 109 comprises a rear plane 121 integrally formed with a bottom panel 123. The bottom panel 123 extends perpendicular to the front plane (i.e., the front surface) of the rear plane 101 that it is attached to the rear plane 121 with clamping devices 125. Ten female 18-pin female connectors 127 are provided on the front surface of the rear plane 101. The three most left connectors 127 as shown in Figure 5 are spaced at three inch intervals, and the remaining connectors 127 are spaced at 1.5 inch intervals. Each bushing of each connector 127 is connected in parallel to the sockets positioned in a similar manner to the other connectors, thus forming the power and data communications busses mentioned above. Blinds 131 are provided on the rear panel 121 above the rear plane 101 to allow air to escape from the base unit 7 (Fig. 5). A generally rectangular opening 133 extends through the rear panel 121 below the rear plane 101 to provide access for a three-pin connector on the rear of the power module 103 as will be explained below. Similarly, a circular opening 135 is provided in the rear panel 121 to accept a quick disconnect pneumatic coupling (not shown) on the back of an irrigation / suction / vitrectomy (IAV) module (eg, the module 131). in figures 32 and 43-60). Thirteen parallel rails, each generally designated 137, are fixed to the lower panel 123 by holding devices 139 (Figure 6). The rails 137 are spaced evenly at 1.5 inch intervals and extend perpendicular to the front of the rear plane 101. One or more of the rails 137 is used to guide the modules 13 in position in the base unit 7. so that they are properly aligned for connection with the rear plane 101. As shown in Figure 14, each of the rails 137 has an I-shaped cross section comprising upper and lower horizontal flanges (141, 143). , respectively) joined by a vertical ribbon 145. Returning to Figure 5, four legs 141 extend downwardly from the bottom panel 123 and are sized to settle into depressions (not shown) molded in the carriage 21. As shown in figure 6, an entrance grid 153 is provided in the lower panel 123 to allow air to enter the base unit 7 to cool the modules 13. Figure 7 shows two female electrical connectors with 9 circular pins 157 mounted on the rear face of the back panel 121. Each of these connectors 157 is connected in parallel to the data communications bus on the backplane 101 to communicate with peripherals such as the carriage 21 (including pole assembly IV 17), the computer unit 3 or the pedal control assembly 15. The connectors 157 may also be used to connect the base unit 7 to a separate expansion base unit as will be explained in detail below. Although other connectors are considered "to be within the scope of the present invention, the connectors of the preferred embodiment are Series 703 electrical connectors sold by Amphenol Corporation of Wallingford, Connecticut." Figures 9-11 illustrate exemplary modules 13 for electronic control the operation of the surgical instruments 19 used by a surgeon in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures The exemplary module shown in Fig. 9 is the power module 103 for supplying power to the power bus of the rear plane 101. Each of the modules 13 comprises a box 161 formed of aluminum sheet and a molded plastic front cover 63. As shown in Figure 12, certain modules 13 have one or more holes provided in their front covers 163 for connecting various surgical instruments (not shown) to the modules The power module 103 illustrated in figure 9 ne three inches wide. Other modules have other widths that are multiples of 1.5 inches (for example 1.5 inches or 4.5 inches). Each of the modules 13 has a green light emitting diode (LED) 165, or other visual indicator, mounted on the front cover 163 to indicate when the module is active. Returning to Figure 10, each module 13 includes a male 18-pin electrical connector 171 adapted to be connected to any of the female connectors 127 mounted on the rear plane 101. The connector 171 is recessed in the case 161 to protect the connector and to maximize the space provided within the base unit 7. A cooling fan 173 is positioned adjacent an exhaust port 175 provided on the rear face of the module case 161 above the 18-pin connector 171 to let escape the air from the box 161 for cooling the components within the module 13. With reference to Figure 11, a recess 177 is formed in the lower part of the front cover 163 to grip the module 13 to slide it in and out of the unit. base 7. An opening 179 is provided in the lower part of the module case 161 to allow air to enter the module when the ventilator 173 is connected to refrig the components housed inside the module 13. One or more slots 181 are formed in the bottom wall 183 of each module case 161. Each of these slots 181 extends from a rear wall 185 of the case 161 and is configured to receive one of the guide rails 139 on the lower panel 123 of the chassis of the base unit 109 for. guide the module 13 and align its connector 171 with the corresponding connector 127 on the rear plane 101. Therefore, the rails 137 and the grooves 181 form a guide for guiding each of the modules 13 within the frame, whereby the respective module connector 127 is aligned for connection to the bus. As illustrated in Figure 14, a channel 187 is adhered by welding to the lower wall 183 of the module case 161 above each slot 181 to prevent debris from entering the case through the slots 181 and to protect the electronic components housed inside the box against electromagnetic interference. When the modules 13 are inserted into the base unit 7, each of the base unit rails 137 is received in a respective slot 181 and channel 187 in the manner shown in Figure 14, ie, with the horizontal flange upper 141 slidable in channel 187 and tape 145 slidable in slot 181 below. The interengagement between the belt 145 and the slot 181 and between the upper flange 141 and the lower wall of the box 183 supports the module 13 in position in the base unit 7 and prevents the module from moving substantially perpendicular to the rails 137 in any of the vertical or horizontal directions. However, the rails 137 and the slots 181 are dimensioned to allow some movement (for example 1/16 of an inch) between the module 13 and the base unit 7, so that the pins of the module connector 171 can be aligned with each other. suitably shaped with the sockets of the rear plane connector 127. The connectors 127, 171 are tapered to guide the pins within the sockets although the connectors are initially out of alignment in some amount (eg, 0.1 inch). Although the rails and slots are sized to allow for some movement, they do not allow for more misalignment than the connectors tolerate. Therefore, the rails 137 and the slots 181 adequately provide tolerances of parts of parts, but guide each of the modules 13 within the frame, whereby the respective module connector 127 is aligned for connection to the bus. The portions of the lower wall 183 of the module box 161 adjacent each slot are engageable with the upper portion of the lower flange 143 of a respective rail 137 to space the box 161 from the chassis of the base unit 109 to decrease the metal to metal contact between the modules 13 and the base unit 7. Although two slots 181 are present in the exemplary module 13 shown in Figure 11, one or more slots may be present in other modules depending on their widths. For example, modules 1.5 inches wide 13 have a slot 181 and modules 4.5 inches wide have three slots. When the module 13 is installed in the base unit 7, the exhaust port 175 and the fan 173 align with the blinds 131 in the rear panel of base unit 121 as shown in FIG. 13 to vent air freely from the module when the cooling fan is connected. Similarly, the inlet opening 179 of the module is aligned with the grid 153 in the bottom panel of base unit 123 to allow air to enter the module 13 from the outside of the base unit 7. Each module 13 provides also overcurrent protection to ensure that a failure of an individual module does not damage other parts of the system 1. As shown in Figures 9 and 12, the front cover 163 of each module 13 includes chamfered surfaces 191 that extend rearward from the front surface 193 along opposite sides of the front surface. The chamfered surfaces 191 are converging with each other towards the front surface 193, so that when the module 13 is placed in the base unit 7 next to the other module, with a chamfered surface of a module adjacent to a chamfered surface of the other module, the generally flat front surfaces of the adjacent modules are laterally spaced apart from each other at a distance D. The lateral spacing between the front surfaces of the module reduces the "appreciation" of any misalignment between the front surfaces 193 of the adjacent modules. Therefore, larger part-piece tolerances are allowed without departing from the appearance of the system 1. As explained previously, the module connectors 171 are connected to the connectors 127 on the rear plane 101 when the modules 13 are installed in the base unit 7. When the male and female connectors are connected, the appropriate circuits within the module 13 are connected to the power and data communications buses in the rear plane 101. Regardless of the position of the module 13 within of the base unit 7, the same module circuits are connected to the same circuits of the power and data communications buses. Therefore, the modules 13 are generally interchangeable and can be arranged in any sequence within the base unit 7. In addition, because each module 13 is controlled separately, only those modules that control necessary instruments are needed. for a particular surgical procedure in the base unit 7. Therefore, the frame previously described is configured to receive the modules 13 in a plurality of different positions along the power and data communications buses so that they can selectively arrange in a plurality of different sequences in the frame. However, the power module 103 has a dedicated place within the base unit 7, so that it can conveniently be connected to the external power source through the rectangular opening 133 in the rear panel of the base unit 121. Because the power module 103 is 3 inches wide, the space between the two leftmost connectors 127 as shown in Figure 5 is three inches. The spacing between the second and third connectors from the left, as shown in Figure 5, allows a three or 4.5 inch wide module to be inserted next to the power module 103. If an IAV is used (for example, module 321 in figures 32 and 43-60), it must be installed on the three rails plus rights 137 as shown in figure 5. As mentioned previously, a quick disconnect pneumatic coupling is projected from the rear of the IAV module 321. The IAV module 321 can be installed only in the rightmost position because the coupling must extend through the circular opening 135 in the rear panel 121 of the base unit 7. If an IAV module is not using, any other module (next to a power module) can be installed in the right position. With the exceptions indicated above, the modules 13 are completely interchangeable and can be installed in any desired order. Therefore, the base unit 7 is configured so that the modules 13 can be received in a plurality of different positions within the frame and thus can be selectively arranged in a plurality of different sequences in the frame. All the modules 13 are able to be installed within or removed from the base unit 7 quickly from the front without the aid of any tool, due to its modular construction and the detachable coupling of the rear plane 101. This installation and removal Fast facilitates convenient maintenance or replacement of modules. For example, if a particular mode 13 needs to be repaired, it can be easily removed and sent to a repair facility. During repair, another module can be used in its place or the system 1 can be operated without the particular module 13. Additionally, as shown in figure 8, a post 195 extends from the rear face of the front cover 113 of the unit 7. The post 195 is placed on the front cover so as to engage an opening 197 (FIG. 9) in the power module 103 when the cover is installed on the base unit with the modules 33 installed. An interlock switch (e.g., interlock switch 783 in FIG. 39) located behind the opening 197 in the power supply module 103 interrupts the power for each of the modules 13 after the removal of the front cover 113. of the base unit. Therefore, users can not contact the backplane 101 when it is connected. Furthermore, the particular configuration of the modules in the frame is checked during each start (as explained below with respect to Figure 31), and can not be changed without the removal of the front cover 113. Interrupting the power when the cover 113 it is removed, the configuration of the modules 13 can not be changed without being detected. With reference to Figure 2, the system 1 may further include an expansion connector 203 (see Figure 16) for connecting the base unit 7 to an optional expansion base unit 207 to thereby expand the network. Physically and functionally, the base expansion unit 207 is substantially identical to the base unit 7. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the user can expand the network and, therefore, expand the operating capabilities of the system. 1, connecting any 9-pin connector 157 on the rear panel 121 of the base unit 7 to the similar connector on the expansion base unit 207 with the expansion connector 203. The expansion base unit 207 of the embodiment preferred includes its own power module 211. Therefore, the expansion connector 203 connects the data communication buses of the units, but the power buses. However, it is considered that an individual power module could supply both units without departing from the scope of the present invention. When an individual power module is used, the power is provided to the expansion base unit 207 through the expansion connector 203 by connecting the power bus on the rear plane 101 of the base unit 7 to the power bus on the back plane 209 of the expansion base unit 207. Referring now to figure 15, the data communications bus preferably comprises a twisted pair cable 215 having a first wire 217 and a second wire 219. In a preferred embodiment, the computer network that articulates each of the components of the system 1 is of the type sold by. Echelon Corporation under the LONTALK0 brand that uses an RS485 communications protocol. The RS485 standard provides a platform for the transmission of data from multiple points on a balanced twisted pair transmission line. Each module 13 includes a transceiver 223 for receiving data from and transmitting data to the data communications bus and a processor 225 coupled to the transceiver 223. Motorola makes a suitable processor 225 designated NEURON00 Model Ns MC143150 chip and National Semiconductor manufactures a suitable transceiver 223 designated NS model Model 75156. The data communications bus, the transceivers 223 and the processors 225 together form the communications network by which the modules 13, the computer unit 3, the control circuit 105 of the pedal control assembly 15 and the control circuit 107 of the IV pole assembly 17 communicate with each other. Through the use of the network, system 1 provides peer-to-peer communication among its components. In a network of this type, the processor 225 is also referred to herein as a "neuron" or "neuron processor" (NEURON00 is a? Trademark of Echelon Corporation). Each neuron processor 225 preferably comprises 8-bit internal processors. Two of the three internal processors implement a communication subsystem, which allows the transfer of information from the node over the network. The third internal processor executes a built-in application program. Therefore, in addition to the operation as communication processors, the neuron processors 225 control the microsurgical instruments 19 connected thereto. Preferably, the neuron 225 processors of modules 13 receive the data communicated through the data communications bus and, in response to the data, generate control signals to control the microsurgical instruments 19. As shown, the transceivers 223 are plugged into the first and second wire pairs 217, 219 of twisted pairs 215. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the twisted pairs wire 215 is placed on the rear plane 101 (ie, as traces in the rear plane). 101). Therefore, when the connectors 171 on the rear of the modules 13 engage the rear plane 101, they are plugged into the twisted pair cable 215. As described above with reference to FIG. 5, the rear plane 101 includes in addition a pair of additional data cable connectors 157 for connecting data cables to the backplane 101. The data cables include the twisted pair cable and extend the data communications bus from the backplane 101 to the computer unit 3 and the peripherals. For example, one data cable extends from a data cable connector 157 to the computer unit 3 and another data cable extends from the other data cable connectors 157 to any pedal control assembly 15 directly. or to the IV pole assembly and the pedal control assembly 17 through the instrumentation carriage 21. According to the RS485 protocol, each end of the twisted pair cable 215 must be terminated by a resistor, such as a 120 O resistor. However, the need for a termination makes it difficult to extend the network. Advantageously, the present invention provides a termination circuit 229, shown in FIG. 16, located at one end of the twisted pair cable 215 to selectively terminate the network by a 120-ohm resistor and allow for easy expansion of the network. net. Figure 16 illustrates the termination circuit 229 to selectively terminate the data communications bus. As shown, the data communications bus (i.e. the twisted pair cable 215) is represented by the RS485-HI and RS485-L0 lines. Preferably, the termination circuit 229 is part of the expansion connector 203 and is connected in series between the ends of the first and second wires 217, 219 of the first twisted pair cable 215. In one embodiment, the. termination circuit 229 comprises a normally closed switch 231 connected in series with the 120 ohm resistor to terminate the data communications bus. In order to expand the network, the user connects an expansion cable 233 having a second twisted pair cable 235 associated with the expansion base unit 207 to the expansion connector 203. As with the first twisted pair cable 215, the second twisted pair cable 235 has a first wire 237 and a second wire 239 provided for connection to the terminating circuit 229. According to the invention, the second twisted pair 235 is placed on the back plane 209 and constitutes the bus data communications for the expansion unit 207. The termination circuit 229 also includes a coil 243 connected to a positive voltage supply. When the user connects the expansion cable 233 associated with the expansion base unit 207 to the expansion connector 203, the coil 243 is short-circuited to ground. As a result, the positive voltage activates the coil 243 which in turn opens the normally closed switch 231. Therefore, when the ends of the first and second wires 217, 219 of the first twisted pair cable 215 are connected to the ends of the first and second wires 237, 239 of the second twisted pair cable 235, respectively, switch 231 is opened to eliminate termination. The termination is then at the other end of the expansion base unit 207. In a preferred embodiment, either the expansion cable 233 or the backplane 209 of the expansion base unit 207 also include the expansion circuit 207. termination 229. Figure 16 also shows lines labeled RESET-HI and RESET-LO. Preferably, the computer unit 3 communicates a reset signal via the data communications bus to the modules 13 installed in the base unit 7 through a backplane 101 and to the modules 13 installed in the base unit of expansion 207 through the back plane 209. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the base expansion unit 207 includes its own power module 211. As such, the power is not distributed between the base unit 7 and the base expansion unit 207. In the alternative, the power bus can also be placed on rear planes 101, 209 to distribute power from the power module 103 to each of the modules 13 of the system 1, which are located in any base unit 7 or expansion base unit 207. Referring now to the block diagram of Figures 17-18, the computer unit 3 comprises a central processing computer incorporated 245, at least one disk drive 247 and an internal hard drive 249. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the central processor 245 of the computer unit 3 is an IBM-compatible microprocessor-based frame including, for example, example, an Intel 486 (R) or Pentium00 processor, and that has a motherboard AT standard of the industrial. The disk unit 247 is a conventional 1.44 MB, 3.5-inch flexible unit, and the hard drive 249 is a conventional internal 3.5 inch IDE hard drive that has at least 250 MB of memory. In an alternative embodiment, the computer unit 3 includes a CD-ROM drive 251 in addition to the flexible unit 247. The computer unit 3 also includes the flat panel display 5., a touch sensitive screen 255 for use with flat panel display 5 and various multimedia hardware accessories such as a video frame, or display driver 259, a sound box 261 and speakers 263. Advantageously, each of the various expansion boxes of the computer unit 3 are compatible with standard PC architectures. The computer unit 3 constitutes a user interface by which the user (such as a surgeon, assistant or medical technician) receives information representative of various operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments 19 and peripherals that provide the different functions needed to perform the surgical procedures. The user also provides information to the system 1 through a graphical user interface provided by the computer unit 3. Advantageously, the hard unit 249 of the computer unit stores programmable operating parameters for each of the microsurgical instruments 19 and peripherals .

By providing information to the central processor 245 through the user interface, the user is able to reprogram or select from the operating parameters stored in the hard unit 249. The computer unit 3 then communicates the operating parameters to modules 13 as well. as to the pedal assembly 15 and the IV pole assembly 17 through the rear plane 101 and the external data cables and their network. In this way, the user is able to optimize the performance of instruments during surgery. In one embodiment, the user stores data representative of a plurality of operating parameters on a removable memory, such as a flexible disk, for use with the disk drive 247 of the computer unit 3. In this embodiment, the central processor 245 of the computer unit 3 defines a set of operating parameters for the microsurgical instruments 19 and peripherals based on the data stored in the removable memory. For example, the set of operating parameters defined by the central processor 245 comprise an individualized set of operating parameters selected by the surgeon. Similarly, hard drive 249 of computer unit 3 stores default operating parameters that can be adapted to approximate the individualized set of parameters provided by the user. As an example, the operating parameters define one or more of the following for use in the control of several instruments 19: a linearly variable cutting speed of the scissors; a fixed cutting speed of the scissors; a cut of the individual drive scissors; a closing level of the proportional drive scissors; an air / fluid pressure; an air / fluid flow rate; a linearly variable bipolar power level; a fixed bipolar power level; a level of illumination intensity; a suction vacuum pressure level; an aspiration flow velocity; a linearly variable vitrectomy cutting speed; a fixed vitrectomy cutting speed; a single-action vitrectomy cut; a phacoemulsification power level; a power level of phacofragmentation; a proportion of phacoemulsification impulses; and a proportion of facofragmentation impulses. The control circuits 105, 107 of the peripherals also form nodes on the computer network and function as a function of at least one operating parameter. In the previous example, the operating parameters also define one or more of the following ones for the peripherals: a plurality of pedal control step retainer levels; and an intravenous pole height. With further reference to Figures 17-18, the computer unit 3 also includes an infrared (IR) receiver circuit 267 for receiving IR signals from the hand held remote control 39. The IR signals preferably represent commands for controlling the operation of the remote control. system 1. As an example, the remote control 39 is an infrared transmitter without wire similar in size and appearance to a remote standard video or television cassette recorder. The unit provides visible operating line and preferably uses a transmitter / receiver coding scheme to minimize the risk of interference from other transmitters and / or infrared receivers. In terms of function, the remote control keyboard 39 preferably includes control buttons to vary the levels of aspiration, bipolar coagulation power and ultrasound power (for phacoemulsification and phacofragmentation) as well as to vary the height of the IV pole by connecting and disconnecting the lighting instrument and varying the intensity level of the light provided by the lighting instrument. In a preferred embodiment, the remote control 39 also includes control buttons to proceed to the next mode and to return to the previous mode in a predefined sequence of operating modes. In addition, computer unit 3 includes a network box 271 specifically designed for use in microsurgical system 1. This application-specific network box 271 includes transceiver 223 and neuron processor 225 to connect computer unit 3 to the network. Preferably, the network box 271 is used to connect the central processor 245 with the touch screen 255 and the IR receiver 267 as well as surgical modules 13, the pedal control assembly 15 and the IV pole assembly 17. In a preferred embodiment, the central processor 245 of the computer unit 3 cooperates with each of the neuron processors 225 of the individual control circuits of the modules 13, the pedal control assembly 15 and / or the pole assembly IV 17 to run software in a two-thirds software hierarchy. The first third of the software hierarchy is the user interface that provides an interface between the user (i.e., the surgical team) and the microsurgical system 1 of the invention. As used herein, the term "user interface" generally refers to the computer unit 3 and specifically to the routines executed by the computer unit 3 to generate a series of functional screen representations that allow the user to connect to the system 1.

The user interface represents operating parameters and their settings as well as other conditions on the flat panel display 5. The user interface also receives input from the touch screen 255, the pedal control assembly 15 or the remote control IR 39 to adapt the operation of system 1 to the surgeon's current surgical procedure. Preferably, the user interface is an environment based on Microsoft00 Windows' 95 which provides a user-friendly, highly graphic operating environment that generates icons, symbols, and the like. As a result, the user interface simplifies the use of the system 1 and is particularly well suited for use with the touch sensitive screen 255. The second third of the system software is a built-in control environment used by modules 13, control circuit 105 and the control circuit 107. As described above, each component of the system 1 forms part of a computer network in such a way that the user interface communicates with the embedded software through a predetermined communication architecture such as the architecture of the computer. communication Echelon LONTALK00. The use of software programs incorporated by modules 13 and the peripherals provides distributed control of the system 1. In other words, each of the modules 13 and peripherals operate independently of the other modules 13 and peripherals while still connected by the network. Therefore, the failure of a component will not affect the functionality of the other components of the system 1. In addition to built-in control software, each module 13 and peripheral incorporate embedded assays so that specific failures can be identified and presented to the computer unit 3 and, thus, communicate to the user. The operating status of each module 13 and peripheral is continuously checked during operation through the use of a software watchdog (see for example watchdog 475 in Figure 32). According to the invention, the computer unit 3 is especially well suited for use in a modular system such as the system 1. The hard drive 249 stores the various programs for the operating system 1, including the programs normally resident in the modules 13 In the event that a program resident in one of the modules 13 is degraded or needs an update, the user can load the appropriate resident program from hard drive 249 to module 13 through the network, thereby facilitating its reprogramming . Flexible unit 247 also allows the user to install software updates or application-specific software for use with new modules based on this product. In this way, the system 1 software follows a modular procedure that parallels the modular design of the hardware. Additionally, the user can save, load and transport settings from the system to another similar microsurgical system at a different location through the use of the flexible unit 247. The computer unit 3 employs sound box 261 and speakers 263 to generate signals from audio for warning messages, alarms or other audible indications. In addition, the sound box 261 and the speakers 263 cooperate with the video frame 259 and the CD-ROM unit 251 to provide presentations or audio / visual or multimedia, such as animated online service and instruction manuals, demonstrations of operation, and the like in a number of different languages. The flat panel display 5 and the touch sensitive screen 255 are the main interface means between the system 1 and the user. In one embodiment, the flat panel display 5 is an active matrix liquid crystal display (LCD) (diagonal 10.4", VGA resolution, active LCD matrix, 256 colors) coated by the touch screen 255. Preferably, the touch sensitive screen 255 is an analog resistive touch screen that is chemically resistant to common sterilization solutions and housed in a watertight cabinet. Preferably, the computer unit 3 also includes a separate power supply 275. In the alternative, the power module 103 of the base unit 7 provides power to the computer unit 3. Figure 19 illustrates the specific network table of the application 271 of the computer unit 3. As illustrated, the network box 271 includes an RS485 network connector circuit 277 as well as a network controller / controller circuit 279 and an RS485 285 termination circuit. advantageous, circuits 277, 279, 281 provide a network interface for computer unit 3 to communicate over the data communications bus. The network box 271 further includes an ISA bus connector 283, an ISA bus transceiver 285 and an ISA bus interface circuit 287, such as an electronically programmable logic device (EPLD). Circuits 283, 285, 287 provide an interface between network box 271 and central processor 245. In addition, network box 271 provides circuit connections and interfaces for touch screen 255, flat panel display 5 and remote control IR 39. In this case, the network box 271 includes a touch screen controller / encoder 289 connected to the central processor 245 through a serial connector 291 and connected to the flat panel display 5 through a circuit connector flexible 293. The flexible circuit connector 293 also connects a backlight brightness control 295 to the flat panel display 5 and connects the IR receiver 267 to a remote IR decoder circuit 297. The network box 271 also includes a connector brightness control 299 for use with an encoder button (not shown) on the computer unit 3 whereby the user controls the intensity of the flat panel display 5. In this case, the remote control or 39 also provides a means for varying the intensity of the screen, so that the input received in the brightness control connector is routed through the remote decoder IR 297 to the bus interface circuit 287. In turn, the bus interface circuit 287 provides the control signals needed for brightness control 295 to vary the intensity of the flat panel display 5. As shown in Fig. 19, the network box 271 further includes a watch and circuit watch of replacement 301"in a preferred embodiment of the invention. Referring now to Figure 20, the termination circuit 281 is shown in schematic diagram form. In addition to the terminating circuit 229 associated with the expansion connector 203 of the base unit 7, the network frame 271 provides the terminating circuit 281 for selectively terminating the computer unit end of the data communications bus. In this case, the termination circuit 281 comprises a normally closed switch 303 connected in series with a resistance of approximately 120 ohms. In order to expand the network at this end (as opposed to the end of the expansion connector 203), the user connects an expansion cable (not shown) from a peripheral either to a first bridge 305 or to a second bridge 307. The bridges 303, preferably provide means for connecting additional peripherals to the network of the system 1. For example, the user can connect the pedal control assembly 15 or some other peripheral to the network through a connector (not shown) associated with any bridge 305, 307 in place of a track connector 157. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the expansion cables from the peripherals to be connected to the network short-cuit a pair of terminating switch pins in the bridges 305, 307. In this case, a peripheral expansion cable connected to a bridge 305 causes a short circuit between TERM SWITCHING and TERM SWITCH IB. Likewise, a peripheral expansion cable connected to a bridge 307 causes a short circuit between TERM SWITCH 2A and TERM SWITCH 2B. As shown in Figure 20, the termination circuit 281 also includes a coil 309 connected to a positive voltage supply. In a preferred embodiment, coil 309 is short-circuited to ground and, therefore, is energized when both TERMIT SWITCH and IB as TERM SWITCH 2A and 2B are short-circuited. As a result of coil 309 being activated, normally closed switch 303 is opened to eliminate termination. The termination is then at the peripheral end of the data communications bus. Figure 21 illustrates data flow in system 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. Preferably, each module 13 installed in the base unit 7 controls one or more microsurgical instruments 19 to provide several different surgical functions. For example, instruments 19 provide intraocular pressure (IOP), scissors cutting, forceps control, ultrasound (for example for phacoemulsification or phacofragmentation), irrigation, aspiration, vitrectomy cutting, bipolar coagulation and / or illumination. In an exemplary setting of system 1, modules 13 include an IAV venturi 321 module and an IAV scroll 323 module, both control irrigation, aspiration and vitrectomy functions of system 1. The IAV venturi 321 module is for use with a venturi pump, while the IAV scroll 323 module is for use with a scroll pump. Modules 13 also include a phaco module 325 that controls phacoemulsification and phaco-fragmentation functions and a scissors module 327 that controls a scissors cut function. In addition, the scissors module 327 also controls a forceps function and includes air / fluid exchange control circuitry to control an IOP function. As shown in Figure 21, modules 13 further include a coagulation module 329 which controls a bipolar coagulation function and a lighting module 331 that controls a lighting function. This embodiment of the invention also includes a pedal control circuit 105 and IV pole control circuit 107 as peripherals connected to the system 1 network. Advantageously, the IAV venturi 321 module, the IAV scroll 323 module, the phaco module 325, the scissors module 327, the coagulation module 329 and the lighting module 331 as well as the control circuits 105, 107 for the pedal control assembly 15 and the pole assembly 17, respectively , they constitute each nodes in the network. As described above, the user either schedules the operating parameters, selects them from a set of default operating parameters or enters them directly from the user interface to optimize the performance of the surgery. "As shown in the setting of the exemplary system of figure 21, the computer unit 3 in turn communicates the operating parameters to the modules 13 through the line 335. Each active module 13 then provides control signals as a function of at least one of the operating parameters entered by the user or by default to control the instrument or microsurgical instruments 19 connected to it. In addition, computer unit 3 provides on / off control of a number of instruments 19 and pole assembly 17 through line 337 and receives feedback with respect to its operating states through "line 339. The circuit control 105 of pedal control assembly 15 provides both linear control (for example by its pedal) via line 341 and discrete control (for example, by its push buttons) through line 343 of several modules 13 Additionally, with its programmable function button, the pedal control assembly 15 also provides control of the system 1 based on instructions from the computer unit 3. It is understood that the data communications bus of the invention carries the reported data. by lines 335, 337, 339, 341 and 343. Preferably, the data communications bus is a bidirectional serial bus carrying all types of signals, therefore lines 335, 337, 339, 341, 343 they display the data flow in system 1 but do not represent the data communications bus. Additionally, the system 1 network provides peer-to-peer communication between its nodes. For example, it may be desirable to deactivate the user interface when the pedal control assembly 15 is engaged. In other words, it is prevented that the user changes the operating parameters of the instruments 19 when the surgeon is using the pedal control set 15 to remotely control the instruments 19. In this case, the control set pedal 15 communicates through the network directly with the user interface and the other modules 13 to provide peer-to-peer communication. Similarly, it may be desirable to prevent certain instruments 19 from operating simultaneously for security reasons. For example, the phacoemulsification instrument can be deactivated by the bipolar coagulation instrument when the latter is being used and vice versa. In contrast, the aspiration function is needed during phacoemulsification or phacofragmentation. Therefore, the information regarding both functions is communicated through the network between the phaco module 325 and any IAV venturi 321 module or IAV scroll 323 module. With reference now to an example of the operation of the user interface, a Opening screen representation at startup allows the user to select the various surgical functions available either for the anterior or posterior portions of the patient's eye or to select a utility program to program the system 1 or to perform other adjustment functions. When the user selects either the anterior portion as the posterior portion, the computer unit 3 preferably represents a selection menu to the surgeon on the flat panel display 5. In accordance with the invention, the hard unit 249 stores an individualized set of the initial operating parameters for each surgeon listed in the menu. In response to user selections, the computer unit 3 adjusts the operating portion either to the previous or subsequent one with appropriate adjustment of initial operating parameters that depend on the user's selections. If a particular surgeon is not listed in the menu, the computer unit 3 adjusts the operating portion either to the previous or later one with the default operating parameters. If desired, the surgeon can change the operating parameters from their default values. Besides the example, the computer unit 3 represents a utility screen on the flat panel screen 5 when the user selects the utility option from the opening screen. In this case, the computer unit 3 sets the operating mode to "none". The utility program allows the user to modify the various system settings (for ele, modify or add new surgeons to the surgeon selection menu, modify the previously saved initial operating parameters or add new initial operating parameters, and access information from help the user). In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the user interface establishes dedicated portions of the touch screen 255 for different information or selection windows. For ele, primary windows are generated to represent functions of aspiration, phacoemulsification, phacofragmentation, vitrectomy, scissors and linear coagulation. Secondary windows are then available to the user to represent non-linear coagulation functions, IOP, illumination, IV pole and pedal control configuration functions. Preferably, the user interface also employs a series of selection boxes (see figure 27) that allow the user to select the current mode of operation of system 1, activate or deactivate surgical functions (e.g., coagulation), represent help in line and to exit the system 1. If needed, the user selection boxes also include multiple choices for one or more of the selections and expand to represent these additional selections. During operation, the user can tailor the parameters of different operations to meet the particular preferences of the surgeon through the use of a surgical interface interface of the user interface. In general, the surgical function interface uses a number of representations to represent the various functions of the microsurgical system (for ele, vacuum venturi, vacuum scroll, vitrectomy, ultrasound, coagulation, scissors cutting, lighting and the following) that are activated. In a preferred embodiment, the surgical function interface represents current operating parameters numerically or graphically, represents operating set points and / or represents the on or off status of the various functions. The central processor 245 of the computer unit 3 also executes routines for generating various control icons for use in adjusting the different operating parameters and / or for use in connecting or disconnecting the functions. For ele, during the performance of the venturi vacuum function, the interface provides a rotary knob control, or ascending / descending control to increase or decrease the current vacuum operating parameter. The interface also uses pushbutton controls to command a number of functions. For ele, during the performance of the aspiration function, the surgeon first primes the suction line before proceeding to remove any air in the line. The priming function is preferably indicated on the screen by a pushbutton. In addition to the turn button and pushbutton controls, the interface also uses progress bars to display current operating parameters with respect to their preset minimum and maximum values. For ele, if the ultrasound power level is at 20% of the maximum power level during facofragmentation, a progress bar covers 20% of a window labeled 0% on its left edge and 100% on its right edge. Referring now to Figure 22, the central processor 245 preferably executes a calculating function interface in response to the user touching the touch-sensitive screen portion 255 which corresponds to the numeric screen of one of the operating parameter values. The calculator function interface preferably causes the flat panel display 5 to represent a numeric keypad, generally indicated with 347, as part of the touch screen 255 for use in inputting a desired value of the selected operating parameter instead of increasing or decreasing the value through a turn button control. As such, the user can quickly and easily change the numerical surgical settings without repeatedly pressing or continuing the up or down arrow of the turn button control. As shown in Figure 22, the interface represents the particular value entered through the numeric keypad 347 in a window 349 with a legend indicating the operating parameter that is modified (e.g., the maximum vacuum setting). The numeric keypad 347 further includes a button 351 for entering the programmed or default maximum value, a button 353 for entering the programmed or default minimum value and buttons 355, 357 for increasing or decreasing the value, respectively. Preferably, the calculating function interface is activated during the operation of the pedal control assembly 15 when an active operation is performed. In addition to the surgical function interfaces, the user interface provides programming function interfaces to represent the functions of the microsurgical system for use in programming mode settings. In the present embodiment, the user accesses the programming function interfaces through the utility menu described above. Programming interfaces represent screen operation adjustment points and provide means for modifying the operating set points for a given mode of operation, changing the functions from linear to fixed, or vice versa, by connecting or disconnecting functions for a operating mode given and so on. In accordance with the present invention, system 1 is a surgical system based on mode. One mode is defined as a surgical adjustment that includes the use of one or more surgical instruments 19 that have specific initial operating parameters. Each of the surgical instruments 19 that are active in a particular mode perform one or more surgical functions. Although the terms "mode" and "function" are sometimes used interchangeably in commonly assigned patents, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 4,933,843, 5,157,603, 5,417. 246 and 5,455,766, it should be understood that these terms are different when used herein. For example, a phacoemulsification mode is defined such that a suction instrument provides the vacuum function and a phacoemulsification handpiece provides the ultrasound function, or phacoemulsification, and both instruments have specific initial operating parameters. As described above, the flat panel display 5 of the computer unit 3 represents information to the user. In a preferred embodiment, the flat panel display 5 represents this information in the form of several on-screen menus of the options available to the user. The menus can be in the form of lists, labeled buttons, user-selectable boxes and the like. The user selects one or more of the available options from the on-screen menu by touching a corresponding portion of the touch-sensitive screen 255. A screen of this type includes a menu of the selectable modes. Preferably, the hard unit of the computer unit 3 stores the operating parameters according to the predefined operating modes in the form of a collection of adjustment files. As described above, each mode is representative of one or more surgical procedures that are performed and - defined by the operation of at least one of the. microsurgical instruments 19. Each mode determines which instruments 19 should be used in the particular mode as well as the operating parameters associated with those instruments. Advantageously, the user can modify or define the modes through the user interface. Figure 23 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of the computer unit to provide modes of operation in accordance with the invention. Beginning at step 361, system 1 first identifies and initializes each of the modules 13 installed in base unit 7 at startup.

When the user makes an initial surgeon selection in step 363, the central processor 245 retrieves a particular adjustment file corresponding to the surgeon selected in step 365. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the adjustment file retrieved it comprises a database so that it has a number of mode registers, each being representative of a different mode and the operating parameters for the various surgical functions that are performed by the system 1 operating in that mode. The adjustment file may also include initial values for other operating parameters that are not part of the mode registers such as audio levels or other settings independently. The retrieved adjustment file also includes a sequence database so that it defines a sequence in which some of the modes are provided. In step 367, the computer unit 3 compares the identification information with the retrieved adjustment file to verify that the necessary modules 13 are present in the system.1 for the performance of the desired surgical functions specified in the records of database mode mode. If not, the computer unit 3 generates an adjustment file transferred in step 369, transferring or replacing operating parameters for the operating parameters in the recovered adjustment file, so that it corresponds to the actual modules 13 in the base unit 7. If the necessary modules 13 are present in the system 1, or if the computer unit 3 has generated a translated adjustment file, the computer unit 3 determines that the adjustment file is acceptable in step 371. In this way , the central processor 245 retrieves a set of operating parameters from the hard drive 249 for the microsurgical instrument or instruments 19 that are used in a selected mode and the surgical modules 13 control the microsurgical instruments 19 connected thereto as a function of the - operating parameters recovered from memory. According to the invention, the mode interface also defines a sequence in which the modes must be activated. To simplify the mode sequence operation, the on-screen menu also includes an option either to go to the next mode in the sequence defined in the mode sequence database or to return to the previous mode in the sequence. This allows the surgeon to switch from mode to mode by touching a single button on the touch sensitive screen 255. In the alternative, the surgeon can also switch from mode to mode by pressing a particular button on the pedal control assembly 15 or by pressing a button particular about the hand held remote control 39. In response to the user instructions, the central processor 245 retrieves in sequence the set of operating parameters from the hard drive 249 for the microsurgical instruments 19 which are used in the selected mode already then retrieves another set of operating parameters from the hard drive 249 for the microsurgical instruments 19 that are used either in the next mode in the previous one in the predefined sequence that depends on the user instructions. For example, if the mode database of a particular surgeon adjustment file has registers for several modes, the mode sequence database can define only one sequence for some of those modes. In particular, the mode sequence database can define a sequence in which the first mode defined in the mode database is followed by the third mode, then the ninth mode and then the seventh mode. In other words, there is no need for a one-to-one correspondence between the mode registers in the mode database and the modes listed in the mode sequence database. Figure 24 illustrates the mode sequence operation of the computer unit 3 in the form of a flowchart. Beginning at stage 375, the user enters a mode sequence command through the user interface. As an example, the mode sequence command can be a command to move to the next mode in the sequence, to return to the preceding mode in the sequence or to return to the last mode performed. In response to the command, in step 377, the computer unit 3 identifies the mode register from the database so that it corresponds to the mode in the predefined sequence. After step 377, computer unit 3 proceeds to step 379 to instruct each module 13 and the peripherals of system 1 of the mode change desired by the user. In addition, in step 379, the computer unit 3 executes certain security routines. For example, the surgeon is only allowed to change from mode to mode when the pedal of the pedal control assembly 15 is inactive. An exception is made for the facofragmentation modes, scissors and other modes, which can be selected when the pedal of the pedal assembly 15 is inactive if the irrigation function is functioning to provide continuous irrigation. Referring further to Fig. 24, the computer unit also goes to step 379 after receiving a new mode selection command in step 381. After step 379, the computer unit 3 reprograms the operating parameters of the computer. the microsurgical instruments 19 which are used in the operating mode selected in step 383. In step 385, the computer unit 3 activates or deactivates the various components? e screen, so that the screen on the flat panel screen 5 corresponds to the surgical functions available in the selected mode. After step 385, the computer unit 3 allows each of the modules or peripherals to be used in the operating mode selected in step 387. As an example, Table 1, below, lists exemplary modes and the operating parameters associated with the instruments 19 that are used in each of the modes. In other words, Table I lists the mode records of a database in an exemplary manner.

Table I. Performance Modes Database In addition to the example in Table 1, the surgeon may define a sequence of mode database through the user interface that includes only some of the nine modes. For example, the mode sequence database defines a sequence that begins with mode 1 (open), followed by mode 3 (medium emulsification), followed by mode 9 (double) and ending with mode 7 (clear) II). As described above in connection with Figure 23, the computer unit 3 compares the identification information of the system, formed at startup in the form of a hardware database, with the retrieved adjustment file. By doing so, the computer unit 3 is able to verify that the necessary modules 13 are present in the system 1 to perform the desired surgical functions of the modes in the mode database. If not, the computer unit 3 generates an adjustment file moved by transferring or replacing the operating parameters by the operating parameters in the recovered adjustment file, so that it corresponds to the real modules 13 in the base unit 7. Figures 25 and 26 illustrate a preferred means for adapting the adjustment files according to the invention. As shown in FIG. 25, the computer unit 3 first examines each mode register in the mode database in step 391. During the initialization of system 1, described in detail below, computer unit 3 reads a set of communication parameters corresponding to the hardware (i.e., the different modules 13 and control circuits 105, 107) in the network. As described above, each neuron processor 225 of the various nodes on the network executes built-in programs to control the various microsurgical instruments 19 and peripherals. The communication parameters represent a unique identification tag specific to each processor 225 that includes information regarding the type of device being controlled (e.g., manual piece of vitrectomy or ultrasound device) and the module 13 or peripheral version in the that the processor 225 is located. The identification tag also includes a specific identifier (e.g., a serial number) that is unique to the particular module 13 or control circuit 105, 107. As an example, the version of a module Particular 13 may change as the hardware or software is updated. In accordance with the invention, each of the mode registers in the mode database represent a different mode of operation and the operating parameters for the various surgical functions that are provided by the system 1 operating in that mode. As such, the operating parameters correspond to specific nodes on the network by both function and version. In step 393, the computer unit 3 determines whether the type of hardware necessary for each instrument or peripheral that is used in the mode of operation defined by the mode registration is present in the system 1. If so, in the stage 395, the computer unit 3 determines whether the version information for each module 13 and peripheral control circuit 105, 107 matches the version information specified by the mode register. If the version information is correct, the computer unit 3 returns to step 391 to examine the next mode register in the mode database. On the other hand, if the version '' information is - incorrect, the computer unit 3 determines in step 397 whether the version information for the installed hardware is compatible with the version information specified by the mode register. If compatible, the computer unit goes to step 399 where it replaces the processing parameters associated with the actual hardware of system 1 by the operating parameters indicated in the mode register. If the versions are not compatible, the computer unit 3 rejects the particular mode in step 401. After either step 399 or step 401, the computer unit returns to step 391 to examine the next mode record in the database of mode. In step 393, the computer unit 3 determines whether the hardware is present in the system 1 for each instrument or peripheral that is used in the operating mode defined by the mode registration. If not, the computer unit 3 proceeds to step 403 shown in the flow chart of FIG. 26. In step 403, the computer unit 3 determines whether the missing hardware is necessary for the operation of the system 1 in the mode particular. If the missing hardware is not needed, the computer unit 3 suppresses the reference to the missing hardware from the mode register in step 405 and then returns to step 391 of FIG. 25 to move to the next mode register. On the other hand, if the missing hardware is needed, the computer unit 3 determines in step 407 whether the substitute hardware is available. Otherwise, the computer unit 3 suppresses the mode registration from the mode database in step 409 and then returns to step 391 to move to the next mode registration. If the substitute hardware is available, the computer unit 3 goes to step 411. In step 411, the computer unit 3 translates the operating parameters in the mode register to correspond with the substitute hardware. As an example, a particular setting of system 1 may include IAV module venturi 321 but not IAV module scroll 323. In this case, if a mode register specifies an operating mode to provide the flow aspiration function, which does not is available with venturi 321 IAV module, computer unit 3 would replace the flow suction operation parameters with vacuum operating parameters that would approximate a flow suction response. After step 411, computer unit 3 returns to step 3.91. After adapting the mode registers of the adjustment file, the computer unit 3 examines the mode sequence database of the retrieved adjustment file. If a mode in the mode sequence is not already available (ie, which was suppressed in step 409), the computer unit 3 also suppresses the mode from the mode sequence database. In this way, the computer unit 3 adapts the recovered adjustment file for use with the particular configuration of the system 1. In other words, the computer unit 3 generates a translated adjustment file. The mode registers shown above in Table I define particular modes in terms of the various procedures performed by the surgeon. For example, the surgeon selects the "open" mode when the opening operation of the patient's eye is performed. It is also contemplated that the modes of operation of system 1 are defined in terms of the different surgical functions performed during these procedures. Tables II and II, below, make a list of exemplary modes in the anterior and posterior portions in terms of the different surgical functions, f Table II. Previous Operating Modes Tables IV-IX, below, list exemplary initial operating parameters for the various modes shown in Tables II and III.

Table IVa. Default Operating Parameters for Aspiration / Irrigation Modes Table IVb. Default Operating Parameters for Irrigation / Spiration Modes The following pedal control operation parameters apply to each of the irrigation / suction modes: Coagulation switch - controls coagulation on / off Programmable function switch - no function Step - irrigation control for pedal movement 1 -100% Left yaw - reflux Right yaw - none The operating parameters for the following functions (which are initially disabled in each of the irrigation / suction modes) are: Coagulation power - 12% Pole height IV - 60 cm (40 cm in capsule polishing mode, 50 cm in viscoelastic recall mode) IOP - 40 mmHg Lamp 1 - off Lamp 2 - off Table Va. Default Operating Parameters for Phacoemulsification Modes Table Vb. Default Operating Parameters for Phacoemulsification Modes The following operating parameters are applied to each of the phacoemulsification modes: Power Ultrasound - linear Minimum power level of ultrasound - 0% Maximum power level of ultrasound - 35% The following pedal control operation parameters are applied to each of the phacoemulsification modes: Coagulation switch - controls the coagulation connection and disconnection Programmable function switch - no function Step - irrigation control for pedal travel 1- 100% Left yaw - reflux The operating parameters for the following functions (which can be deactivated in each of the phacoemulsification modes) are: coagulation power - 12% Pole height IV - 75 cm (80 cm in mode 2 and mode 4) IOP - 40 mmHg Lamp 1 - off Lamp 2 - off Table Via Default Operating Parameters for Facofragmentation Modes Table Vlb. Default Operating Parameters for Facofragmentation Modes The following operating parameters are applied to each of the facofragmentation modes: Ultrasound power - linear Minimum power level ultrasound - 0% Maximum power level ultrasound - 25% The following pedal control operation parameters apply to each of the facofragmentation modes: Coagulation switch - controls the switching on and off of the coagulation Programmable function switch - no function Left yaw - reflow The operating parameters for the following functions (which are initially deactivated in each of the facofragmentation modes) are: Coagulation power - 12% 5 Pole height IV - 75 cm IOP - 30 mmHg Lamp 1 - off Lamp 2 - off 0 Table Vlla. Default Operating Parameters for Vitrectomy Modes (Previous) Table Vllb. Default Operating Parameters for Vitrectomy Modes The following pedal control operating parameters are applied to each of the vitrectomy modes (above): Coagulation switch - controls the coagulation on / off switch Programmable function switch - no function Step - irrigation control to move the coagulation pedal 1-100% Left yaw - reflux The operating parameters for the following functions (which are initially inactivated in each of the vitrectomy modes (anterior)) are: Coagulation power - 12% Pole height IV - 40 cm IOP - 40 mmHg Lamp 1 - off Lamp 2 - off Villa table. Default Operating Parameters for Vitrectomy Modes (Posterior) Table VIiIb. Default Operating Parameters for Vitrectomy Modes (Posterior) The following pedal control operation parameters are applied to each of the vitrectomine modes (posterior): Coagulation switch - controls the coagulation connection and disconnection Programmable function switch - no function Left yaw - reflux The operating parameters for the following functions (which are initially inactivated in each of the vitrectomy modes (posterior) are: Coagulation power - 12% Pole height IV - 75 cm (40 cm for individual cutting) IOP - 30 mmHg (40 mmHg for individual cutting) Lamp 1 - off Lamp 2 - off Table IXa. Default Operating Parameters for Scissors Modes Table IXb. Default Operating Parameters for Scissors Modes The following pedal control operation parameters apply to each of the scissor modes: Coagulation switch - controls coagulation on and off Programmable function switch - no function Left yaw - no right yaw - none The operating parameters for the following functions (which can be deactivated in each of the scissor modes) are: Coagulation power - 12% Pole height IV - 75 cm IOP - 30 mmHg Lamp 1 - off Lamp 2 - off With respect to the function-based modes shown in Tables II-IX., in general, the user selects one of the several predefined modes described above from the upper-level user selection boxes 415, an example of which is shown in Figure 27 for operations of the previous portion. Preferably, the boxes 415 are placed in the lower part of the touch sensitive screen 255. Only one mode can be activated at a time, whereby the computer unit 3 automatically deselects the current operating modes when the user selects one of the selection boxes. In an example of mode selection, the user touches a box in phaco mode 417 for the available phacoemulsification modes. With reference now to figures 28 _ and 29, the flat panel display 5 initially only represents the first four modes (i.e., sculpting, segment removal, sculpting (double) and segment removal (double)) when the user touches the user selection box of phaco modes 417. In response to the user touching a box 419 containing the arrow symbol, the computer unit 3 generates an additional menu of available phaco modes (i.e., fixed vacuum, linear vacuum, fixed flow and linear flow) for representation on the flat panel display 5. For example, the user touches a box 421 to select the linear vacuum phaco mode from the menu. Figure 30 illustrates an exemplary screen representation for phaco linear vacuum mode. As shown, the functions of vacuum, ultrasound (ie, phacoemulsification) and coagulation are available. and active in this mode. As described above, to operate in accordance with the various modes of operation of the microsurgical system, the computer unit 3 first identifies and initializes each of the nodes in the network (that is, the modules 13 installed in the base unit 7 and control circuits 105, 107 for pedal control assembly 15 and pole assembly IV 17, respectively). In a preferred embodiment, the central processor 245 of the computer unit 3 executes software that constitutes a system engine that has three operating components: boot initialization, network management and network link. initialization of the system engine creates and starts the network The network management component provides connection / disconnection of variables of the network for modules 13 on the network to implement the modes selected by the user, supervises the modules 13 for incoming messages of processes and functionality from the network The link component of the network processes the configuration file and mode changes and notifies the user interface of screen changes and error cases Figure 31 illustrates the operation of the unit computer 3 executing the initialization component of the system engine when the system is started l., the system engine identifies each of the nodes on the network and creates a programming object for each node neuron processor 225 that contains variables of the local network by which the user interface accesses the node. Beginning at step 427, the system engine initializes a network database stored in the hard drive 249 of the computer unit 3. As described above, each neuron processor 225 of the various nodes on the network executes embedded programs to control the different microsurgical instruments 19 and peripherals. The communication parameters represent a unique identification tag specific to each processor 225 that includes information regarding the type of device being controlled (e.g., manual piece of vitrectomy or ultrasound device) as well as information regarding the module version 13 or peripheral in which the processor 225 is located. The identification tag also includes a specific identifier (e.g., serial number) that is unique to the particular module 13 or control circuit 105, 107. As an example, the The version of a particular module 13 may change as the hardware or software is updated. The network database includes previously installed nodes in the form of specific module identifiers 13 or control circuits 105, 107, names for the nodes corresponding to the different types of devices and names for the different programs corresponding to those nodes. In other words, the network database may include information with respect to a system having each of the different types of modules 13 and peripherals that are already installed available in the network. In step 429, the system engine reads a set of communications parameters corresponding to the hardware (i.e., the different modules 13 and control circuits 105, 107) currently present in the network and creates a software node object for provide access to the particular module 13 or peripheral. Turning to step 431, the system engine begins with the first module 13 or peripheral control circuit 105, 107 for which a node is already installed in the network database and, in step 433, creates an object from device to software to represent this node. Preferably, the system engine derives the device object from the node object that provides access to the hardware. If the system engine determines in step 435 that other modules 13 or peripheral control circuits 105, 107 have already installed nodes in the network database, it returns to step 431 and passes to the next module 13 or control circuit peripheral 105, 107. In this way, the system engine creates device objects for the hardware already installed in the network database. These device objects created by the system engine contain the variables of the local network by which the user interface accesses the nodes. After creating device objects to represent the nodes already installed in the network database, the system engine goes to step 437 to examine the peripheral control modules 13 or 105, 107 present in the network as compared with the previously installed nodes. Turning to step 439, the system engine determines if there is a node installed in the network database (ie, that is not already present in the network) that corresponds to the same type of module 13 or peripheral control circuit 105, 107 under review. If so, the system engine replaces the communication parameters for the previously installed node with the communication parameters for the particular module 13 or peripheral control circuit 105, 107 in step 441. When a substitution operation is performed, either of the variable connections of the network are transferred to the new node. In addition, the database of the network as well as other nodes involved in the variable connection of the network do not need to be modified. On the other hand, if a node has not been installed in the network database corresponding to the same type of module 13 or peripheral control circuit 105, 107 being examined, then the system engine goes to step 443. In the step 443, the system engine installs a new node with the communication parameters for the new module 13 or peripheral control circuit 105, 107 and creates a device object to represent this new node. After step 441 or 443, the system engine goes to step 445 to determine whether other modules 13 or peripheral control circuits 105, 107 are present in the network that have not already installed nodes in the network database . If so, the system engine returns to step 437. Otherwise, the system engine goes to step 447. In step 447, the system engine removes all the remaining nodes installed in the database of the system. network for which the hardware is not present in the network. Turning to step 449, in the event that more than one module 13 or peripheral control circuit 105, 107 of the same type are present in the network, the system engine makes the first device object for each active type. In other words, the system engine gives priority to one of the multiple modules 13, or duplicates, or peripheral control circuits 105, 107. Therefore, if a new module 13 has been added to the configuration from the sequence of previous startup, either of the same type or of a different type of module 13 compared to the previously installed modules 13, system 1 automatically detects and initializes the new module 13 and reconfigures both the communication parameters and the user interface.

By doing so, the user now has access to the new module 13 and can control any surgical instrument 19 associated therewith. Similarly, if a particular module 13 has been removed from the network from the previous boot sequence, system 1 automatically detects the auserity of module 13 and removes any of the associated communication parameters and user interface functions. In addition, the computer unit 3, by executing the reconfiguration of the automatic network, allows more than one module of the same type to be installed in the system 1. The computer unit 3 determines primary and secondary priorities as required for identification and control through the user interface. The computer unit 3 also determines non-allowed system configurations and instructs the user through the user interface to take the appropriate action. In this way, the computer unit 3 initializes the system 1 when starting by configuring neuron 225 processors and creating the local network variables necessary for use by the user interface to access the network, verifying that the system 1 meets certain operating requirements minimum and that makes all the constant network connections. The computer unit 3 further notifies the user interface of any configuration changes since the last configuration, including the addition / removal of the modules 13 or peripherals from the system 1. After the boot initialization, the control of the system 1 goes to the user interface. In an alternative embodiment, the computer unit 3 further identifies the position of the particular modules 13 within the base unit 7 at start-up. Referring now to the individual components generally shown in the exemplary system configuration of Figure 21, each module 13 installed in the base unit 7 controls one or more microsurgical instruments 19 to provide several different surgical functions. For example, the modules 13 include the IAV venturi 321 module, the IAV scroll 323 module, the phaco module 325, the scissors module 327, the coagulation module 329 and the lighting module 331 (also referred to as the lighting module 13A with with respect to figures 4A-4D). The system 1 also includes the pedal control assembly 15 and the pole assembly 17 as peripherals connected to the system 1 network. Figure 32 shows the IAV venturi 321 module in block diagram form (shown in detail in the drawings). Figures 43-60). As shown in Figure 32, the module 321 has a neuron circuit 455 connected to the network through the network connector 171 at the rear of the module 321 that connects to the backplane 101. The neuron 455 circuit includes the RS485223 transceiver for receive and transmit data about the data communications bus. The neuron processor 225, coupled to the transceiver 223, provides control of network communications for the module 321. The neuron 225 processor also executes application programs incorporated to control the irrigation, aspiration and vitrectomy functions of the system 1. In this case, the neuron circuit 455 includes a memory 457 (eg, instantaneous EEPROM memory), for storing the application programs for the IAV module 321. In addition, the memory 457 stores the identification and configuration data for use in the initialization module 321 of network. Advantageously, the central processor 245 is capable of reprogramming the memory 457 via the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user. The neuron circuit 455 also includes a clock circuit 459 (eg, a crystal oscillator) which provides a time base for the neuron 225 to operate. The venturi 321 IAV module further includes a status LED 461, such as an LED green on the front panel of the 321 module, to indicate that the module is active, and a power regulation circuit 463 to generate a supply of -5 volts for use by the circuitry. Although not shown in Figure 32, the neuron circuit 455 further includes another RS485 transceiver to receive a reset signal from the computer unit 3. In general, the neuron 225 processors can be used with coprocessors if a higher processing capacity is required that provided by the processor 225. In those cases, the particular modules 13 may include a coprocessor that receives and is responsive to the control signals generated by the neuron processor 225 to generate additional control signals to provide closed-loop control during the carrying out the surgical procedures. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the IAV module 321 includes a coprocessor circuit 465 that cooperates with a programmable logic circuit, such as an electronically programmable logic device (EPLD) 467. The coprocessor circuit 465 preferably includes a coprocessor 469 (for example, example, an Intel 386EX processor) and an associated memory 471 (e.g., an instantaneous EEPROM memory and a static RAM) a clock circuit 473 (e.g., a crystal oscillator) to provide the clock signals used by the circuit coprocessor 465, and watchdog 475. With additional reference to Figure 32, coprocessor 469 of coprocessor circuit 465 generates a suction control signal as a function of an aspiration level operating parameter and provides it to a digital converter to analog (D / A) 483. In the illustrated embodiment, the D / A 483 converter provides a parallel interface the reason why coprocessor 469 controls air flow through the module venturi pump. A suction unit 485 receives the analog output of the D / A converter 483 and drives a servo valve 487 in response thereto. The opening and closing of the servo valve 487 determines the air flow through the venturi and, therefore, determines the level of vacuum. The IAV venturi 321 module preferably supports the operation of a single suction port operated from the venturi pump located inside the module. The venturi pump requires an external gas / air inlet with pressures between, for example, 80 to 100 pounds per square inch - gauge. The module 321 further includes a pressure relief valve (not shown) to prevent overpressure conditions. Advantageously, the control circuitry of the module 321 provides both fixed and linear control of the suction vacuum level. For example, the suction vacuum level can range from 0 mmHg to 550 mmHg and can be varied in increments of 1 mmHg. The user adjusts all the aspiration parameters through a touch sensitive screen 255, remote control 39 or pedal control assembly 15 and controls the aspiration function through the pedal control assembly 15. The irrigation portion of the module IAV venturi 321 supports irrigation fed by gravity. For example, the IV pole assembly 17 supports a bag of sterile saline solution that the surgeon uses to irrigate the patient's eye during surgery. The module 321 includes a set of solenoid valves 493, one of which is a reducing valve 495 that prevents any fluid entry to the system 1 when closed. Either a touch-sensitive screen 255 or a pedal control assembly 15 provides the user with fixed and on / off control (open / closed) of the irrigation function of the IAV venturi 321 module. The neuron processor 225 cooperates with the coprocessor 469 and a control register 496 of EPLD 467 to generate drive signals to drive a set of solenoid actuators 497. In turn, solenoid actuators 497 cause solenoid valves 493 to open and close in the desired amount . Preferably, the IAV module 321 includes a set of pneumatic pressure transducers 501 that provide feedback with respect to current suction or irrigation pressures. For example, a suction transducer 503 detects the level of the suction pressure and a linear pressure transducer 505 detects the level of the irrigation pressure. An instrumentation amplifier circuit 507 associated with the linear pressure transducer 505 amplifies its pressure signals before it is processed. Preferably, the aspiration transducer includes an internal amplifier. An analog to digital (A / D) converter 511 receives the amplified pressure signals and converts the analog pressure signals into digital values for processing by the coprocessor circuit 465. In this way, the IAV 321 module provides closed circuit control of the suction and irrigation functions. Microsurgical ophthalmic systems typically employ a vacuum-operated suction system with a removable fluid accumulation cassette, as illustrated and described in commonly-owned U.S. Patent No. 4,773,897. The suction fluid is introduced into a cassette by connecting the suction instrument to the cassette that is under negative or empty pressure. The surgeon who performs the microsurgical ophthalmic procedure has control of the aspiration system by, for example, the pedal control assembly 15 which allows the surgeon to precisely control the aspiration by activating a solenoid plunger configured in the form of a wedge such as the one shown in reference number 182 in the aforementioned patent, or the suction valve 487 as shown in figure 32, to block or open the aspiration from the cassette to the microsurgical instrument. The solenoids 493 of the modules 321 also include a cassette capture valve 515 and a cassette reducing valve 51. The plunger (not shown) of the cassette capture valve 515 secures the cassette in position in the module 321. The valve cassette reducer 517 closes the suction line when the suction function is not active to prevent backflow of fluid from the cassette or suction line to the patient's eye. Additionally, one of the solenoids 493 in the IAV venturi 321 module is a solenoid valve of reflux 5619 for actuating a reflux piston, as shown in 184 in the aforementioned patent.

When actuated, the reflux piston compresses a reflux chamber associated with the cassette to force a small amount of fluid into the suction tube out of the passage, thus ensuring that the tube holders open and unlock. Depending on the procedure that is carried out, a different amount of reflux is required, for example, if a previous or subsequent procedure is being carried out. It is important that a cassette that is used for a later procedure uses a cassette that provides much less reflux than in the case of a cassette used for a previous procedure. An advantageous feature of system 1 automatically detects and differentiates between a subsequent cassette, or micro-reflow, and a previous cassette. This feature prevents the user from installing and inadvertently using the wrong backflow cassette for a given procedure. According to this invention, if a cassette designated for use during a previous procedure is inserted into the IAV 321 module that is used for a subsequent procedure, the user interface indicates this error visually and / or audibly and prevents it from being activated System 1 with an incorrect installed cassette. In order to identify the cassettes that correspond to the procedure with which they are used, each cassette carries a particular color. Preferably, the medium that carries the color supported by each cassette is a coupler member, or insert, as illustrated in 150 in the aforementioned patent. It is generally I-shaped and adjusted by friction in a recess in the cassette as shown at 130 in the aforementioned patent. These means that carry the color of a removable form, for example, one yellow and the other blue, can be easily applied and removed from the cassettes which can otherwise be identical. When a cassette is inserted inside the module 321, the medium carrying the color is placed adjacent to a sensor 525 present in the cassette that generates a signal indicating the presence of the cassette. Preferably, the sensor 525 present in the cassette is incorporated by a photoelectric color sensor, for example, an infrared light source in a photoelectric circuit, such as that sold by Tri-Tronics Co., Inc. of Tampa, Florida. under your model number F4. The yellow color reflects infrared light and blue will absorb it, thus differentiating one cassette for a particular procedure from another for a different procedure. Therefore, the sensor present in the cassette detects the presence of the cassette as a function of the color of the medium that carries the color. Figure 61 illustrates a preferred circuit that receives the signal generated by the sensor 525 present in the cassette for communication to the computer unit 3. If the color of the cassette does not correspond to the particular procedure selected by the surgeon, a visible signal and / or audible indicates this to the user through the user interface. In addition, the computer unit 3, in response to this information, prevents any ophthalmic procedure from being carried out until the user installs the correct cassette. In the embodiment of Figure 32, the sensor 525 present in cassette provides a signal to the computer unit 3 to inform the user of the incorrect cassette by first providing a signal to a state recorder 527 of EPLD 467. In turn , EPLD A67 and the coprocessor circuit 465 provide the signal to the neuron circuit 455 for return communication to the computer unit 3. In addition to the feedback with respect to the particular suction and irrigation levels, the module 321 also includes sensors for the level of cassette 529 to generate an almost full signal and a full signal to notify the user through the user interface that the cassette should be changed. A priming function available to the user through the user interface allows the user to prime the surgical hand pieces by opening and closing the irrigation reducing valve 495 and removing air from the suction line. This function also allows the user to eject the suction accumulation cassette by "selecting an ejection option." As described above, the venturi 321 IAV module also supports the vitrectomy function of the system 1. In a preferred embodiment, the IAV module venturi 321 includes a vitrectomy orifice to which the vitrectomy blade is connected Preferably, the module 321 controls the vitrectomy blade in a manner that provides three types of cutting action: linear cutting speed, fixed cutting speed; and individual court. Preferably, the linear cutting speed may range from 30 to 750 cuts per minute and may vary in increments of 1 cut per minute. The user adjusts the cutting speed through the touch sensitive screen 255, the remote control 39 or the pedal control assembly 15 and controls the cutting speed through the pedal control assembly 15. The user can also program the fixed cutting speed to provide 30 to 750 cuts per minute in increments of 1 cut per minute. In this case, the user adjusts the fixed cutting speed through a touch sensitive screen 255, the remote control 39 or the pedal control assembly 15 and changes the fixed cutting speed through the pedal control assembly 15 The individual cut is provided with fixed on / off control. When an individual cut is activated (on), the vitrectomy blade will close / open once with an individual activation. The user selects the individual cut through the touch screen 255, the remote control 39, or the pedal control assembly 15 and activates the cut through the pedal control assembly 15. The vitrectomy blade fixed to the module IAV venturi 321 is operated from the external air / gas inlet that is also used to operate the venturi pump. As shown in Figure 32, EPLD 467 preferably includes a vitrectomy clock 533 for performing timing functions necessary to adjust the cutting speed of the vitrectomy blade. The solenoid actuators 497 drive a vitrectomy solenoid 535 as a function of the timing signal from the vitrectomy timer 533 to control the vitrectomy cut. Preferably, the system 1 includes the IAV scroll 323 module in addition to or instead of the IAV module 321. Although similar to the IAV venturi 321 module, the IAV scroll 323 module uses a scroll pump (not shown) instead of a venturi pump, for provide the functions of aspiration and irrigation. According to the invention, the scroll pump of the IAV scroll 323 module can function as a venturi aspiration system (i.e., vacuum control) or as a scroll aspiration system (i.e., flow control). In this case, . the 323 module works in combination with a disposable scroll cassette that includes the scroll pump, reductive valve openings to control irrigation, suction, ventilation and calibration, a transducer diaphragm, and a reservoir _ of accumulation. The scroll cassette also includes the irrigation line, the suction line, and the accumulation tank in the front of the cassette housing. The user loads the scroll cassette into a retractable drawer located at the front of the module 323. Once loaded, the scroll cassette is coupled and uncoupled with the drive and control systems of the module 323 through the touch-sensitive screen 255. In other words, the IAV scroll 323 module retracts, or couples, the cassette, or extends, or undocks the cassette when it is sent through an input to the touch screen. 255. The suction portion of the IAV scroll module 323 drives an individual suction orifice that provides either vacuum or suction flow control. Preferably, the vacuum suction function provides vacuum levels from 0 mmHg to 550 mmHg in 1 mmHg increments and the flow suction function provides flow rates from 1 cm3 / min to 60 cm3 / min in 1 cm3 increments / min. The user adjusts the aspiration operation parameters through the touch sensitive screen 255, the remote control 39 or the pedal control assembly 15 and changes them through the pedal control assembly 15. The irrigation portion of the module IAV scroll 323 also supports gravity-fed irrigation similar to the IAV venturi 321 module. However, in contrast to the IAV venturi 321 module, the 323 module does not include a reduction valve 495. Instead, the IAV scroll 323 module provides control of the Irrigation through the disposable scroll cassette in combination with a solenoid plunger inside the 323 module. As with the 321 module, the user has fixed control, on / off (open / closed) irrigation function of the IAV scroll 323 module through a touch sensitive screen 255 or the pedal control assembly 15. Similar to the IAV venturi 321 module, the IAV scroll 323 module supports In addition, the vitrectomy function of the system 1. However, a pneumatic pump located inside the module 323 operates the vitrectomy blade fixed to the IAV scroll 323 module instead of the external air / gas inlet to the IAV venturi 321. Figures 147 and 148 illustrate a preferred pressure sensing circuit for use with the IAV scroll 323 module in the form of a schematic diagram. Turning now to FIG. 33, the phacoemulsification and facofragmentation module (phaco) 325 (shown in detail in FIGS. 26A-26T) is an autonomous module that supplies, for example, up to 35 watts of phaco power in 5000 ohms at a frequency from 20 ± 2 kHz to an output hole 537 to which a phacoemulsification and / or facifragmentation handpiece 539 is connected. In a preferred embodiment, the phaco module 325 supports both linear and pulsed operation. The linear phaco function provides continuous phaco power that the user can program to oscillate from 0% to 100% in increments of maximum 1%. The surgeon activates the linear phaco output at the programmed minimum phaco power level by pressing the central pedal of the pedal control assembly 15 and then increases it to the maximum programmed output level as a function of the linear pedal displacement. In this case, the linear phaco power rises from zero to a fixed linear velocity. Preferably, the user adjusts the output levels through the touch sensitive screen 255, the remote control 39, or the pedal control assembly 15 and controls the linear phaco function through the pedal control assembly 15. In contrast with linear operation, the phaco-driven function provides phaco power for finite, programmed (for example, periodic) time durations. Module 325 provides the user with fixed power on / off control, which the user can set at 1% to 100% of maximum in 1% increments. The user can then program the driven output control to provide between 1 to 20 pulses per second in increments of 1 pulse per second. The user adjusts the output power level and the pulse rate through the touch sensitive screen 255 and controls them through the pedal control assembly 15. In a preferred embodiment, the phaco module 325 has a neuron circuit 541 connected to the network through the network connector 171 at the rear of the module 325, which is connected to the backplane 101. The neuron circuit 541 includes a RS.485 223 transceiver to receive and transmit data about the data communications bus. The neuron processor 225, coupled to the transceiver 223, provides control of network communications for the module 325. The neuron processor 225 also executes the embedded application programs stored in a memory 543 (e.g., instantaneous EEPROM memory) to control the phacoemulsification and facofragmentation functions of the system 1. The memory 543 also stores the configuration and identification data for use in the initialization module 325 in the network. Advantageously, the central processor 245 is capable of reprogramming the memory 543 via the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user. Neuron circuit 541 includes a 545 clock circuit (eg, a Crystal oscillator) that provides a time base for the 225 neuron to work. The phaco 325 module, similar to the IAV 321 module, includes a voltage reference or power regulation circuit 546 to generate supplies of ± 5 volts and 4 volts for use by the circuitry. Although not shown in Figure 33, the neuron circuit 541 also includes another RS485 transceiver to receive a reset signal from the computer unit 3 and a status LED to indicate which module 325 is active. As shown in Fig. 33, the phaco module 325 also includes a coprocessor circuit 547 that cooperates with an EPLD 549. The coprocessor circuit 547 preferably includes a coprocessor 551 (e.g., an Intel 386EX processor) and an associated memory 553 ( for example, an instantaneous EEPROM memory and a static RAM), a clock circuit 555 (eg, a crystal oscillator) and a watchdog 557. The EPLD 549 has a pulse timer 559 to provide clock signals used to a frequency generator 561 (for example, sine wave generator). The coprocessor 551 of the coprocessor circuit 545 cooperates with EPLD 547 to provide control signals to the frequency generator 561 to generate a programmable frequency for the phaco-driven output. A phaco actuating circuit 563 uses the programmable frequency generated by the frequency generator 561 to drive the phaco output 537. Advantageously, the phaco module 325 includes a servo regulator 565 to maintain the rail voltage provided to the phaco actuator 563 in 3. volts, for example, greater than the phaco voltage level sent. This prevents excessive power dissipation in the phaco actuator 563. The phaco module 325 also includes a monitor circuit 567 to monitor not only the servo voltage but also the phase of the phaco power. For optimal phaco functions, it is desired that the phase of current and voltage remain at the resonant frequency of the hand piece 539 even as its load changes. The monitor circuit 567 also provides an overcurrent detector to prevent overcurrent conditions in the phaco module 325. According to the invention, the phaco module 325 also includes a circuit present with probe 571 for detecting the presence of workpiece 539 connected to the phaco output 537. The coprocessor circuit 547 and EPLD 549 combine the output of the present circuit with probe with interrupt signals generated by the monitor circuit 567 to drive a relay control 575. In turn, the relay control 575 deactivates the phaco 563 drive in the case of undesirable operating conditions. With respect to Figure 34, the scissors module 327 (shown in detail in Figures 89-103) preferably provides system 1 with not only a scissors function but also an air / fluid exchange and forceps functions. In a preferred embodiment, the module 327 supports an electrically driven hole 579, whose module 327 controls with respect to the operating mode selected by the user and the operating parameters of a manual scissors / forceps piece connected to the orifice 579. Scissors module 327 preferably provides the function of scissors / forceps with a linear cutting speed, a fixed cutting speed, an individual actuation and a proportional actuation. For example, the user can program the scissors module 327 to provide a linear cutting speed between 30 and 300 cuts per minute in increments of one cut per minute through the touch sensitive screen 255 or pedal control assembly 15. In this case, the surgeon controls the actual speed of the blade through a pedal control assembly 15. The user can also program the module 327 to provide a fixed cutting speed between 30 and 300 cuts per minute in increments of one cut per minute through the touch sensitive screen 255 or the pedal control set 15, the pedal control set 15 providing control connection / disconnection. As with the other operating parameters, the user can also program the module 327 to provide an individual cut, or an individual scissors / forceps cycle. The surgeon preferably activates the individual cut through the pedal control assembly 15. The proportional actuation function closes the manual piece of scissors by a certain percentage. For example, the user can "-program the scissors module 327 to provide proportional actuation from 0% to 100% closure in 25% increments of closure where the touch sensitive screen 255 and the pedal control assembly 15 provide the user the linear control. As with the other modules 13, the scissors module 327 has a neuron circuit 583 connected to the network through the network connector 171 at the rear of the module 327 that connects the rear plane 101. The neuron circuit 583 includes the RS485223 transceiver for - receiving and transmitting data on the data communications bus coupled to the neuron processor 225. In addition to controlling network communications, the neuron processor 225 also executes a built-in application program stored in a 585 memory (eg, an EEPROM memory). snapshot) to control the air / fluid exchange and scissors / system forceps functions 1. The memory 585 also stores the configuration and identification data for use in the initialization module 327 in the network. Advantageously, the central processor 245 is capable of reprogramming the memory 585 through the data communication bus in response to the information provided by the user. The neural circuit 583 further includes a watchdog circuit 587 and a clock circuit 589. Although not shown in FIG. 34, the neural circuit 585 also includes another RS485 transceiver to receive a reset signal from the computer unit 3. Similar to one of the other modules 13, the scissors module 327 includes an EPLD 595 for use with the neuron 225 processor of the 585 neuron circuit to control the scissors / forceps handpiece as a function of the operating parameters introduced by the scissors / forceps. the user. In particular, the EPLD 595 is a drive selector for selecting both a solenoid drive 597 and a DC motor drive 599 to drive the manual part hole 579. In this way, the scissors module 327 is capable of driving two types of scissors instruments. As shown in Figure 34, the scissors module 327 also includes pneumatic controls 605 to provide the air / fluid exchange function. For example, the pneumatic controls operate three solenoid valves to control the load, exhaust and maintenance of the IOP. Preferably, the air / fluid exchange portion of the module 327 supports an individual air hole (not shown) driven by a pneumatic pump that is part of the pneumatic controls 605. As an example, the pump supports air pressures up to 100 mmHg in increments of 1 mmHg at flow rates of up to five standard cubic feet per hour. The user controls the air / fluid exchange hole through the touch sensitive screen 255 or pedal control assembly 15. Figure 34 also shows an IOP 607 detector (e.g., a pressure transducer) to provide feedback to the user. 583 Neuron circuit. In response to the IOP 607 detector that detects both an overpressure and underpressure condition, the user interface provides an audible warning. The scissors module 327 further includes a status LED 611, such as a green LED on the front panel of the module 327, to indicate that the module is active and a manual piece detecting circuit 613 for detecting the presence of a manual part of the module. scissors connected to hole 579. Although not shown in figure 34, the neuron circuit also includes another RS485 transceiver to receive a reset signal from the computer unit 3. In the case of power loss or module failure, the 327 module is equipped with a pneumatic receiver and a shut-off valve to give to the user adequate time to respond to the fault condition. As shown in Fig. 35, the bipolar coagulation module 329 (shown in detail in Figs. 104-113) is a self-supporting module that supports an individual bipolar output 625. In a preferred embodiment, the bipolar output supplies up to 7 , 5 watts of bipolar power at 100 ohms. Preferably, the module 329 controls the orifice to provide either a fixed bipolar function or a linear bipolar function. The user can program the bipolar coagulation module 329 to provide fixed bipolar power between 2% to 100% maximum in 1% increments. The bipolar output is preferably activated at the output power level programmed via a momentary contact switch (push) in the pedal control assembly 15. The bipolar output remains activated while the button remains depressed. The user adjusts the output level through the touch sensitive screen 255, the remote control 39 or the pedal control assembly 15 and changes the setting via a push button on the pedal control assembly 15. The user can program the module 329 to provide linear bipolar power between 2% to 100% maximum and can vary the power level in increments of 1%. The bipolar output is preferably activated at the minimum programmed output power level when the surgeon presses the central pedal of the pedal control assembly 15 and then increases to the output power level programmed as a linear pedal displacement function. The user adjusts the output level through the touch sensitive screen 255, the remote control 39 or the pedal control assembly 15 and controls the level through the pedal control assembly 15. As with the other modules 13, the coagulation module 329 has a neuron circuit 627 connected to the network through the network connector 171 at the rear of the module 329 which is connected to the backplane 101. The neuron circuit 627 includes an RS485 transceiver 223 for receiving and transmitting data on the data communications bus. The neuron processor 225, coupled to the transceiver 223, provides control of network communications for the module 329. The neuron processor 225 also executes a built-in application program to control the bipolar coagulation function of the system 1. In this case, the neuron circuit 627 includes a memory 629 (eg, an instantaneous EEPROM memory), for storing the application program for the coagulation module 329. Further, the memory 629 stores the configuration and identification data for use in the initialization module 329 in the net. Advantageously, the central processor 245 is capable of reprogramming the memory 629 via the data communication bus in response to the information provided by the user. The neuron circuit 627 also includes a clock circuit 631 (eg, a crystal oscillator) which provides a time base for driving the neuron 225. Although not shown in FIG. 35, the neuron circuit 627 also includes another RS485 transceiver to receive a reset signal from the computer unit 3. The coagulation module 329 also includes a EPLD 635, for use with the neuron 225 processor of the 627 neuron circuit to control the bipolar coagulation device as a function of the user input parameters, In particular, the EPLD 635 includes a 637 logic control circuit to generate an activating signal to activate the coagulation, an activity monitor 639 for monitoring the bipolar output voltage and the output activity (either linear or fixed output) and a bipolar clock 641 to generate a modulation frequency of the width of the pulse. "The bipolar coagulation module 329 further includes an overshoot detector 645 to interrupt the power to the bipolar output 625 in the case of an undesired or excessive output condition. Preferably, the surge detector 645 also communicates with the network through the neuron processor 225 and the transceiver 223 to signal an alarm to the user of the undesirable output condition. According to the invention, the neuron processor 225 of the neuron circuit 627 in combination with EPLD 635 activates a set of pre-actuators 649 in the proper phase sequence and, in turn, a power driver assembly 651 provides power to the output bipolar 625. In one embodiment, the coagulation module 329 also includes an insulation and impedance matching network 653 for conditioning the output of the power actuators 651. Figure 35 further illustrates a status LED 657 which, as described above, is preferably an LED placed on the front panel of the module 329 to indicate to the user that the coagulation module is active. Module 329 includes fusion circuitry and power filtering 659 to prevent overcurrent conditions and reduce noise. Referring now to Figure 36, the lighting module 331 (shown in detail in Figures 114-125), is a self-supporting module having at least two lamps, such as a first lamp 665 and a second lamp 667, to provide light to corresponding illumination holes in the front of the module 331. According to the invention, the user connects a fiber optic illumination instrument, such as the endo-illuminator to one or both of the orifices for use by the illuminating surgeon the posterior portion of a patient's eye during surgery. Although the module 331 provides individual control over the light supplied to each of the orifices by the lamps 665, 667, they can be used simultaneously if desired. In addition, the module 331 provides independent control of the intensity of the light provided in the holes. The user is able to select high (100%), medium (75%) or low (50%) output lighting levels through the touch sensitive screen 255 or remote control 39. In a preferred embodiment, the lighting module 331 has a neuron circuit 671 connected to the network through the network connector 171 at the rear of the module 331 that connects to the rear plane 101. The '671 neuron circuit includes the RS485 223 transceiver and the 225 neuron processor The neuron processor 225 executes control of network communications as well as the application program for controlling the lighting function of the system 1. In this case, the neuron circuit 671 includes a 673 memory (eg, an instantaneous EEPROM memory), for storing the application program for the lighting module 331. In addition, the memory 673 stores the configuration and identification data for use in the initialization module 331 in the network. Advantageously, the central processor 245 is capable of reprogramming the memory 673 via the data communication bus in response to the information provided by the user. The neuron circuit 671 also includes a clock circuit 675 (eg, a crystal oscillator) to provide the clock signals used by the 671 neuron circuit, and a watchdog 676. Although not shown in Fig. 36, the neuron circuit 671 also includes another RS485 transceiver to receive a reset signal from the computer unit 3. As shown in Fig. 36, the neuron processor 225 of the neuron circuit 671 provides an on / off signal to a first power relay 677 for lamp 665 and an on / off signal to a second power relay 679 for lamp 667. In turn, either one or both relays 677, 679 connect a 12 volt supply 681 (provided through the rear plane 101 from the power module 103) to a first lamp action circuit 683 and a second lamp driver circuit 685, respectively, to activate either one or both lamps 665 and 667. In a preferred embodiment, the lamp actuators 683, 685 provide feedback to the neuron circuit 671 with respect to the state of lamps 665, 667. In order to vary the intensity of the the light provided by the lamp 665, the neuron circuit 671 of the lighting module 331 first provides serial data representative of the desired intensity to a digital-to-analog converter (D / A) 689. In response to the output of the D / A converter 689, a light reducing actuator circuit 691 operates a light reducing circuit 693. In accordance with the invention, the light reducing circuit 693 adjusts the intensity of the lamp 665. Therefore, the light reducing actuator 691 controls the circuit light reducer 693 as a function of the serial data input to the D / A converter 689 to adjust the intensity of the lamp 665 to a desired level. In a similar manner, the neuron circuit 671 also provides serial data representative of the desired intensity to a digital to analog converter (D / A) 697 to vary the intensity of the light provided by the 667 lamp. The D / A converter 697 then provides a current signal analogous to a light reducing actuator circuit 699 which in turn controls a light reducing circuit 701 as a function of the serial data input to the D / A converter 697 to vary the intensity level of the lamp 667. With further reference to Figure 36, the lighting module 331 further includes a status LED 705, such as a green LED on the front of the module 331 to indicate that the module 331 is active. The module 331 also provides a cooling system 707, such as a fan, which is responsive to the neuron processor 225 of the neuron circuit 671 to dissipate excessive heat within the module 331 that can damage its components. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system 1 further supports selected peripherals of the following: the remote pedal control assembly 15; instrument trolley 21 with automatic IV pole assembly 17; base unit of expansion 207; and manual IR remote control unit 39. One of these peripherals, namely, the pedal control assembly 15 provides the surgeon with remote control of at least one microsurgical instrument 19 during the performance of the surgical procedures. Although the user may be the surgeon, often a nurse or other person in the operating room provides input directly to the user interface of the system 1. As such, the pedal control assembly 15 provides the primary interface between the surgeon and the microsurgical system 1. Advantageously, the surgeon can control a number of the functions provided by the system 1 as well as change the operating modes of the pedal control assembly 15. Figure 37 illustrates the control circuit 105 according to with a preferred embodiment of the invention for controlling the pedal control assembly 15. Preferably, the pedal control circuit 105 (shown in detail in Figures 126-136) provides communication of the network and controls the operation of the assembly of pedal control 15 as a function of at least one operating parameter. Although not installed in the base unit 7, the pedal control circuit 105 has a neuron circuit 717 including RS485 transceiver 223 for receiving and transmitting data over the data communications bus. The neuron processor 225, coupled to the transceiver 223, provides control of network communications for the pedal control circuit 105. Therefore, with respect to the computer network, the pedal control assembly 15, as it is controlled by the control circuit 105, it is functionally equivalent to the modules 13. In other words, the pedal control circuit 105 is also connected to the data communications bus which provides data communication representative of the operating parameters between the interface. user interface and pedal control circuit 105. Therefore, the data communications bus also provides peer-to-peer communication between the pedal control circuit 105 and the surgical modules 13. In addition, the pedal control circuit 105 is sensitive to the instructions of the surgeon through the pedal control assembly 15 to change the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments 19 through the network. In this case, the transceiver 223 of the neuron circuit 717 is connected to the data communications bus through a data cable (not shown) which is connected to the connector 157 at the rear of the backplane 101. In the alternative, the Pole assembly IV 17 provides a bridge to which the pedal control circuit 105 is connected. A power input 721 provides power to the pedal control circuit 105 and a voltage regulator, such as a VCC generator 723, provides the voltages logical for the circuit. Fig. 37 further illustrates a drive circuit of < 4fc 5 brake 725 connected to a magnetic particle brake 727 to provide detents in the displacement of the pedal. The neuron circuit 717 also includes a 731 memory (for example, an instantaneous EEPROM memory) for storing an application program for the pedal control circuit 105. In this case, the neuron processor 225 cooperates with an EPLD 735, to execute the built-in application program to control the pedal control assembly 15. In addition, the memory 731 stores the identification and configuration data for use in initializing the pedal control circuit 105 in the network. In addition, as with modules 13, the central processor 245 is capable of reprogramming the memory 731 through the data communication bus in response to the information provided by the user. As shown in Figure 37, the neuron circuit 717 also includes an RS845 transceiver 739 to receive a reset signal from the computer unit 3. In a preferred embodiment, the The pedal control assembly 15 comprises a central pedal, an individual oscillator switch, and two separate pushbutton switches (see FIG. 231). The step and yaw movements of the central pedal preferably provide the system with 1 controls linear double and on / off. Each of these controls are fully programmable with respect to the function and control parameters (ie, range, mode, and if necessary). According to the invention, the EPLD 735 receives information from the various switches 743 and receives Information regarding the movement of the central pedal through a pitch encoder 745 and a yaw encoder 747. According to the invention, EPLD 735 provides switch decoding, quadrature decoding / multiplication and brake force coding. . Due to the limited number of available inputs with respect to the neuron 225, the EPLD 735 provides decoding of the switching signals provided by the switches 743. In addition, the pitch and yaw encoders 745, 747 each provide two quadrature signals to represent the space and direction of movement of the pedal. The EPLD 735 decodes these signals for use by the neuron 225 of the neuron circuit 717. Additionally, the EPLD 735 encodes the brake force signals generated by the neuron 225 for use by the brake actuator circuit - 725. As an example, the The central pedal of the pedal control assembly 15 provides approximately 15 ° of upward and downward movement in the step or vertical direction. Within this range of movement, the user can program two detent positions. In addition, when the central pedal travels through any of these detent positions, the resistance offered by the pedal changes to provide tactile feedback to the surgeon. This resistance preferably remains the same as long as the central pedal moves within the programmed range of the detent. When released, the pedal returns to a starting position (up). Functionally, the user can also program step movement to provide on / off or linear control for all applicable surgical functions. For example, pedal control assembly 15 provides linear control as a function of pedal relative displacement (e.g., 0 ° to 15 ° corresponds to output from 0% to 100%) and provides a positive control as an absolute displacement function pedal (for example, down from 0 ° to 10 ° corresponds to off, while from 10 ° to 15 ° corresponds to on). In the horizontal or yaw direction, the center pedal provides ± 10 ° of left / right movement. In this case, the pedal has a central detent and, when released, returns to a starting position (central). Functionally, the user can program the yaw movement to provide linear or on / off control for all applicable surgical functions. For example, the pedal provides linear control as a relative pedal displacement function (for example, 0 ° to 10 ° left corresponds to 0% to 100% output) and provides fixed on / off control as an absolute displacement function of the pedal. pedal (for example, the movement to the left (right) of the central retainer corresponds to on (off)). Preferably, the oscillator switch is a two-position switch located to the right of the center pedal of the pedal control assembly 15. When released, the oscillator switch returns to an off (center) position. Functionally, the user can program the oscillator switch to provide up / down, increase / decrease, or on / off controls for all applicable surgical functions (e.g., phacoemulsification and facofragmentation power levels, bipolar power levels, aspiration levels , and similar). The two pushbutton switches of the pedal control assembly are preferably located opposite the oscillator switch to the left of the center pedal. In a preferred embodiment, one of the switches is dedicated to the bipolar output control, while the user can program the other switch to control one of the surgical functions. When released, the pulser switches return to an off (up) position. Referring now to Figure 38, the system 1 also includes the IV pole assembly 17 having the control circuit 107 (shown in detail in Figures 137-146) to control a 753 engine to raise and lower the IV pole. of the pole assembly IV 17. Preferably, the pole control circuit IV 107 provides network communication and controls the operation of the IV pole assembly 17 as a function of at least one operating parameter. base 7, the pole control circuit IV 107 has a neuron circuit 755 which includes the transceiver 223 and the neuron-2Z5 processor, coupled to the transceiver 223. As such, the neuron circuit 755 provides control of network communications for the circuit IV pole control 107. Therefore, with respect to the computer network, the IV pole assembly 17, as controlled by the pole control circuit IV 107, is functionally equivalent to the modules 13. In other words, he pole control circuit 107 is also connected to the data communications bus which provides data communication representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the pole control circuit IV 107. The neuron circuit 755 further includes a circuit of clock 757 (for example, a crystal oscillator) that provides a time base for activating the neuron 225. A power input 759, preferably from the base unit 7, provides power to the pole control circuit IV 107. Thus similar to the circuit ie pedal control 105, transceiver 223 of pole control circuit IV 107 is connected to the data communications bus through a data cable (not shown) which is connected to connector 157 on the rear of the backplane 101. The neuron circuit 755 also includes a 763 memory (eg, an instantaneous EEPROM memory) for storing an application program for the control circuit. ol pole IV 107. In this case, the neuron processor 225 executes the built-in application program to control a motor drive circuit 765 as a function of the operating parameters of the IV pole assembly 17. In addition, the memory 763 stores the identification and configuration data for use in the initialization of the pole control circuit IV 107 in the network. In addition, as with modules 13, central processor 245 is able to reprogram memory 763 via the data communication bus in response to information provided by the user. Although not shown in Fig. 38, the neuron circuit 755 also includes a watchdog and another RS485 transceiver to receive a reset signal from the computer unit 3. Preferably, the IV pole assembly 17 is an integrated part of the driver cart. instrumentation 21 and used to position, for example, two containers of 500 cm3 of fluid up to 100 cm above the carriage 21. In this case, one pole IV of the IV assembly 15 is able to move up or down at a speed of 6 cm / sec . and has a positioning resolution of 1 cm and a repetition capacity of the positioning of 2 cm Functionally, the user adjusts the parameters of the IV pole through the touch sensitive screen 225, the remote control 39 or the pedal control assembly 15. A pair of limit switches 767 provide feedback to the neroon circuit 755 with respect to the height of the pole IV. For example, if the IV pole reaches its maximum permitted height, a limit switch 767 instructs the neuron circuit 755 to cause the interruption of the motor 753 that drives the pole upwards. Likewise, if the pole reaches its minimum height, the other limit switch 767 instructs the neuron circuit 755 to cause the interruption of the motor 753 that drives the pole downwards. In an alternative embodiment, an individual limit switch 767 detects when the pole IV reaches its minimum height. In this embodiment, the motor 753 is a stepper motor and the neuron 225 counts the number of steps to determine when the pole reaches its maximum height. Figure 39 illustrates the power module 103 in the form of a block diagram. As shown, the power module 103 includes a power input 771 that receives AC power. Preferably, an electromagnetic interference filter (EMI) 773 conditions the power before a switchable power supply circuit 775 generates the DC voltages used by the various modules 13 installed in the base unit 7. A switching circuit 779 then provides these voltages to the rear plane 101 through a rear plane connector (such as connector 171). In a preferred embodiment, the power module 103 includes an interlock switch 783, preferably located in the opening 197 shown in FIG. 9, which is normally opened to interrupt power being supplied to the power bus of the rear plane 101. When the front cover 113 is installed in the base unit 7, the post 195 extends into the opening 197 to close the interlock switch 783. In this way, the system 1 provides a reset condition each time the modules 13. they are changed and prevents the user from coming into contact with the rear plane 101 when it is activated. The power module 103 also includes a status LED 787 indicating its active state and a fan 789 to prevent overheating within the module. The attached microfiche appendix is a list of the software program for the system 1. In accordance with the invention as described herein, the computer unit 3 executes the software listed in the microfiche appendix to provide the user interface characteristics and of network management of the invention. In addition, the neuron 225 processors execute the software listed in the appendix to control the various microsurgical instruments 19 and peripherals. In view of the foregoing, it will be seen that the various objects of the invention are achieved and other advantageous results are achieved. As several changes could be made to the above constructions and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that the entire subject contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings be construed as illustrative and not in a sense of limitation.

Claims (48)

1. CLAIMS 1.
2. A system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto, said microsurgical instruments for use by a user such as a surgeon in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures, said system comprising: a data communication bus; a user interface connected to the data communications bus, said user interface providing information to the user and receiving information from the user, whose information is representative of the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments; a first surgical module connected and controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said first micro-surgical module being connected to the data communications bus; a second surgical module connected and controlling another of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said second surgical module being connected to the data communications bus; and wherein the data communications bus provides data communication representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the first and second surgical modules.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the data communications bus provides peer-to-peer communication between the first and second surgical modules.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the modules and the user interface includes a transceiver and a processor coupled to the transceiver to receive the data and transmit the data to the data communications bus and where the communications bus of data, the transceivers and processors form a communications network where the modules communicate with each other and the user interface through the communications network.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein each surgical module includes a processor that receives and is responsive to the data communicated through the data communications bus to generate control signals to control the corresponding microsurgical instrument during the performance of the procedures surgical The system of claim 1, wherein the user interface includes a memory that stores a plurality of operating parameters and includes a central processor to retrieve a set of operating parameters from the memory for the microsurgical instruments, where each surgical module - logic controls the corresponding microsurgical instrument as a function of the set of operating parameters recovered from the memory.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the operating parameters stored in the memory comprise an individualized set of operating parameters selected by the surgeon provided by the user through the user interface.
7. The system of claim 5, wherein the operating parameters stored in the memory are programmable and where the central processor reprograms the operating parameters in response to the information provided by the user through the user interface.
8. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein. the user interface includes a disk unit for use with a removable memory that stores data representative of a plurality of operating parameters and includes a central processor for defining a set of operating parameters for the microsurgical instruments based on the data stored in the removable memory, where each surgical module controls the corresponding microsurgical instrument as a function of the set of operating parameters defined by the central processor.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein each module includes an instantaneous EEPROM memory that stores configuration and identification data and where the modules and the user interface communicate over the data communications bus as a function of the data stored in the instantaneous EEPROM memory.
10. 10. The system of claim 9, where the instantaneous EEPROM memory of each surgical module stores the executable routines to control the corresponding microsurgical instrument connected to it during the performance of the surgical procedures.
11. The system of claim 9, wherein the user interface includes a central processor for reprogramming the instantaneous EEPROM memory of at least one of the modules through the communication bus of the .data in response to the information provided by the user.
12. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pedal control assembly that provides remote control of at least one of the microsurgical instruments and a control circuit connected to and controlling the pedal control assembly, said circuit being connected pedal control to the data communications bus where the data communications bus provides data communication representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the pedal control circuit.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the data communications bus provides peer-to-peer communication between the pedal control circuit and the first and second surgical modules.
14. The system of claim 12, wherein the pedal control circuit is responsive to the pedal control assembly for changing the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments.
15. The system of claim 12, wherein the pedal control circuit includes an instantaneous EEPROM memory that stores configuration and identification data and where the modules and the pedal control circuit communicate over the data communications bus as a function of the data stored in the instantaneous EEPROM memory.
16. The system of claim 12, wherein the instantaneous EEPROM memory of the pedal control circuit stores executable routines for controlling the pedal control assembly connected thereto during the performance of the surgical procedures.
17. The system of claim 12, wherein the user interface includes a central processor for reprogramming the instant EEPROM memory of the pedal control circuit through the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user.
18. 18. The system of claim 12, wherein the pedal control circuit includes a processor that receives and is responsive to the data communicated through the data communications bus to generate control signals to control the pedal control assembly. during the performance of surgical procedures.
19. The system of claim 1, further comprising a touch-sensitive screen having a user-interface responsive representation for representing information to the user.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein the representation includes a menu on the screen representing the options available to the user, said menu being sensitive on the screen to the user who touches the screen to select one or more of the available options.
21. The system of claim 1, wherein each surgical module is selected from the following: an air / fluid exchange module; a scissors / forceps module; a. phacoemulsification module; a facofragmentation module; a phacoemulsification and facofragmentation module; an irrigation / aspiration / vitrectomy module for use with a scroll pump; an irrigation / aspiration / vitrectomy module for use with a venturi pump; a bipolar coagulation module; and a lighting module.
22. The system of claim 1, further comprising an intravenous pole assembly (IV) and a control circuit connected to and controlling the IV pole assembly for driving a motor and raising and lowering the IV pole assembly, being connected said pole control circuit IV to the data communications bus, wherein the data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the pole IV control circuit.
23. The system of claim 1, wherein the user interface includes an infrared receiver (IR) circuit for receiving signals from an IR remote control and where the user provides information representative of the operating parameters to the user's ip-phase through the IR remote control.
24. The system of claim 1, wherein the operating parameters define at least one of the following: a linearly variable cutting speed with scissors; a fixed cutting speed with scissors; a cut with individual acting scissors; a level of closing of the proportional action scissors; an air / fluid pressure; an air / fluid flow rate; a linearly variable bipolar power level; a fixed bipolar power level; a level of illumination intensity; a suction vacuum pressure level; an aspiration flow rate; - a linearly variable vitrectomy cutting speed; a fixed cutting speed of vitrectomy; a cut of vitrectomy of individual performance; a phacoemulsification power level; a power level of facofragmentation; a phacoemulsification pulse rate; a speed of impulses of phacofragmentation; a plurality of pedal step retainer levels; and an intravenous pole height.
25. 25. A system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto, said microsurgical instruments for use by a user such as a surgeon in the performance of ophthalmic surgical procedures, said system comprising: a data communications bus; a user interface connected to the data communications bus, 'said user interface providing information to the user and receiving information from the user, whose information is representative of the operating parameters; a surgical module connected and controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said first surgical module being connected to the data communications bus; a remote control circuit connected and controlling a remote control unit as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said remote control circuit being connected to the data communications bus, said remote control unit operating to change the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments during the performance of the surgical procedures; and wherein the data communications bus provides data communication representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the surgical module and the remote control circuit.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the remote control unit comprises a pedal control assembly for providing remote control of at least one of the microsurgical instruments and wherein the remote control circuit comprises a pedal control circuit for controlling the pedal control set.
27. The system of claim 25, wherein the data communications bus provides peer-to-peer communication between the pedal control circuit and the surgical module.
28. The system of claim 27, wherein the pedal control circuit is responsive to the pedal control assembly to change the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments.
29. 29. The system of claim 27, wherein the pedal control circuit includes an instantaneous EE-PROM memory that stores configuration and identification data and where the module and the pedal control circuit communicate through the communication bus. of data as a function of the data stored in the instant EEPROM.
30. The system of claim 29, wherein the instantaneous EEPROM memory of the pedal control circuit stores executable routines for controlling the pedal control set connected thereto during the performance of the surgical procedures.
31. The system of claim 29, wherein the user interface includes a central processor for reprogramming the instantaneous EEPROM memory of the pedal control circuit through the data communication bus in response to the information provided by the user.
32. The system of claim 27, wherein the pedal control circuit includes a processor that receives and is responsive to the data communicated through the data communications bus to generate control signals to control the pedal control assembly during performing surgical procedures.
33. 33. The system of claim 25, wherein the data communications bus provides peer-to-peer communication between the remote control circuit and the surgical module.
34. 34. The system of claim 25, wherein the module and the remote control circuit each include a transceiver and a processor coupled to the transceiver to receive data and transmit data to the data communications bus and where the communications bus of data, the transceivers and the processors form a communications network, where the module and the remote control circuit communicate with each other and the user interface through the communication network.
35. 35. The system of claim 25, wherein the surgical module includes a processor that receives and is responsive to the data communicated through the data communications bus to generate control signals to control the corresponding microsurgical instrument during the performance of the surgical procedures.
36. 36. The system of claim 25, wherein the user interface includes a memory that stores a plurality of operating parameters and includes a central processor to retrieve a set of operating parameters from the memory, where the surgical module controls the corresponding microsurgical instrument and the remote control circuit controls the remote control unit as a function of the set of operating parameters recovered from the memory.
37. 37. The system of claim 25, wherein the operating parameters stored in the memory comprise an individualized set of operating parameters selected by the surgeon provided by the user through the user interface.
38. 38. The system of claim 25, wherein the operating parameters stored in the memory are programmable and wherein the central processor reprograms the operating parameters in response to the information provided by the user through the user interface.
39. 39. The system of claim 25, wherein the user interface includes a disk unit for use with a removable memory that stores data representative of a plurality of operating parameters and includes a central processor for defining a set of operating parameters for the microsurgical instruments based on the data stored in the removable memory, where the surgical module controls the corresponding microsurgical instrument as a function of the set of operating parameters defined by the central processor.
40. 40. The system of claim 25, wherein the module and the remote control circuit each include an instantaneous EEPROM memory which stores the configuration and identification data and where the module, the remote control circuit and the user interface they communicate through the data communications bus as a function of the data stored in the instantaneous EEPROM memory.
41. 41. The system of claim 40, wherein the instantaneous EEPROM memory of the surgical module stores executable routines to control the corresponding microsurgical instrument connected thereto during the performance of the surgical procedures.
42. 42. The system of claim 40, wherein the user interface includes a central processor for reprogramming the instantaneous EEPROM memory of the module and / or the remote control circuit via the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user. user.
43. 43. The system of claim 25, further comprising a touch-sensitive screen having a user-interface responsive representation for representing information to the user.
44. 44. The system of claim 43, wherein the screen includes an on-screen menu that represents options available to the user, said menu being sensitive on the screen to the user who touches the screen to select one or more of the available options.
45. 45. The system of claim 25, wherein the surgical module is selected from the following: an air / fluid exchange module; a scissors / forceps module; a phacoemulsification module; a facofragmentation module; a phacoemulsification and phacofragmentation module; an irrigation / aspiration / vitrectomy module for use with a scroll pump; an irrigation / aspiration / vitrectomy module for use with a venturi pump; a bipolar coagulation module; and a lighting module.
46. 46. The system of claim 25, further comprising an intravenous pole assembly (IV) and a connected control circuit and controlling the IV pole assembly for driving a motor to raise and lower the IV pole assembly, said pole control circuit IV connected to the data communications bus, wherein the data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the control circuit of the pole IV.
47. 47. The system of claim 25, wherein the user interface includes an infrared receiver (IR) circuit for receiving signals from an IR remote control and where the user provides information representative of the operating parameters to the user interface through the IR remote control.
48. 48. The system of claim 1, wherein the operating parameters define at least one of the following: a linearly variable cutting speed with scissors; a fixed cutting speed with scissors; a cut with individual acting scissors; a level of scissors closing proportional action; an air / fluid pressure; an air / fluid flow rate; a variable bipolar power level; a fixed bipolar power level; a level of illumination intensity; a suction vacuum pressure level; a