RU2661144C2 - Joystick switch assemblies for surgical instruments - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medicine.

SUBSTANCE: surgical instrument includes a housing, a plurality of motors supported and a joystick control assembly. Joystick control assembly comprises a first switch assembly that is movable relative to the housing. Joystick is movably mounted on the control assembly such that rotary movement of the joystick relative to the first switch assembly causes at least one corresponding control signal to be sent to at least one of the motors communicating therewith. Second switch assembly comprises a first sensor and a second sensor movable with the first switch assembly such that movement of the second sensor relative to the first sensor causes at least one other control signal to be sent to at least one of the motors communicating therewith.

EFFECT: invention relates to medical equipment and can be used for tissue suturing.

20 cl, 117 dwg

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various designs, to surgical cutting and stapling instruments and cassettes with brackets for them, which are made with the possibility of cutting and stitching tissue staples.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Surgical stapling instruments are often used to place staples in soft tissues to reduce or eliminate bleeding from soft tissues, especially when dissecting tissue, for example. Surgical stapling instruments such as, for example, an endoscopic divider, may include an end effector that can move or pivot with respect to the elongated trunk assembly. The end effectors are often made with the possibility of fixing soft tissue between the elements of the first and second branches, the element of the first branch often includes a cassette with brackets, made with the possibility of removable storage of brackets in it, and the element of the second branch often includes an emphasis. Such surgical stapling instruments may include a clamping system for turning the stop relative to the cassette with staples.

Surgical stapling instruments, as briefly described above, can be configured to rotate the stop of the end effector relative to the cassette with staples in order to capture soft tissue between them. In various circumstances, the emphasis may be configured to apply a compressive force to the soft tissue to hold the soft tissue between the emphasis and the cassette with brackets. However, if the surgeon does not satisfy the position of the end effector, the surgeon, as a rule, must activate the release mechanism on the surgical stapling instrument to turn the stop to the open position, and then change the position of the end effector. After that, as a rule, the staples are placed from the cassette with brackets using an ejector, which passes through the channel in the cassette with brackets, which causes the brackets to deform against the stop and fix the layers of soft tissue together. As is known in the art, in order to more securely attach fabric layers together, the staples are often placed in several lines, or rows, of staples. The end effector may also include a cutting element, such as a scalpel, for example, which extends between two rows of staples to dissect the soft tissue after stapling the layers of soft tissue together.

Such surgical stapling instruments and effectors can be shaped and sized to be inserted into the body cavity through a trocar or other access hole. The end effector is usually connected to an elongated barrel, the size of which allows it to pass through a trocar or hole. The elongated barrel assembly is often functionally connected to a handle that supports control systems and / or triggers designed to control the operation of the end effector. To facilitate the proper placement and orientation of the end effector inside the body, many surgical instruments are configured to facilitate the articulation of the end effector relative to a portion of the elongated barrel.

The foregoing description is intended only to demonstrate various aspects of the relevant technology in the field of application of the invention at the moment, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The elements and advantages of the present invention, as well as methods for their achievement, will become more apparent, and the invention itself will become more clear by reference to the following description of embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, moreover:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical stapling instrument according to one form of the present invention;

figure 2 presents another perspective view of the surgical instrument depicted in figure 1 with the removed part of the handle body;

figure 3 presents a General view with a spatial separation of the components of one design of the effector of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of part of the end effector and the elongated barrel assembly of the surgical instrument shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, with the stop assembly in the open position;

FIG. 5 shows another partial cross-sectional view of the end effector and the elongated barrel assembly shown in FIG. 4 with the stop assembly in the closed position before starting;

FIG. 6 shows another partial cross-sectional view of the end effector and the elongated barrel assembly shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 after moving the tissue-cutting member to the most distal position inside the end effector;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a structure of a connector assembly of the present invention;

on Fig presents a General view with a spatial separation of the components of the node of the connecting element shown in Fig.7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a proximal end of an end effector and a distal end of an elongated trunk assembly and a connecting member assembly connected thereto;

figure 10 presents a view in vertical projection of the proximal end of the end effector depicted in figure 9;

in Fig.11 shows a view in vertical projection of the distal end of the node of the connecting element shown in Fig.9;

12 is a perspective perspective view of a portion of an end effector and an elongated barrel assembly before attaching an end effector to it;

13 is another perspective view of a portion of the end effector and the design of the elongated barrel assembly after the end effector has entered primary engagement with part of the assembly of the connecting member on the elongated trunk assembly;

FIG. 14 is another perspective view of the components shown in FIG. 13 after the end effector has been connected to a part of the connecting member assembly on the elongated barrel assembly;

15 is a perspective view of a structure of a hinge control device of the present invention;

on Fig presents a perspective view of part of the design of the segment of the hinge shaft;

on Fig presents a perspective view with a spatial separation of the structural components of the articulated joint of the present invention;

on Fig presents a perspective view of the design of the articulated joint depicted in Fig.17;

on FIG presents a top view of the design of the articulated joint depicted in FIG.17 and 18;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the components shown in FIG. 19;

on FIG presents another view in cross section of the articulated joint depicted in FIG 19 and 20;

FIG. 22 is yet another cross-sectional view of the articulated joint shown in FIG. 21 in an articulated position;

on Fig presents a perspective view of the design of the launch system of the present invention;

on Fig presents a perspective view of the design of the rotation system of the end effector of the present invention;

on Fig presents a perspective view of part of the articulation and the node of the connecting element of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a structure of a barrel rotation system of the present invention; FIG.

on FIG presents a perspective view with a spatial separation of the components of the surgical instrument depicted in FIG 1 and 2;

on Fig presents a perspective view with a spatial separation of the structural components of the detachable drive cartridge of the present invention;

on FIGA presents an end view in vertical projection of part of the structure of the detachable drive cartridge shown in FIG.28, attached to the design of the mounting unit of the engines;

FIG. 28B is a perspective view of a part of the structure of the detachable drive cartridge and the structure of the engine mounting assembly shown in FIG. 28A;

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a structure of a handle assembly;

on FIG presents a General view with a spatial separation of the components of the detachable drive cartridge and the mounting unit of the engines inside the parts of the handle body;

on FIG presents a General view with a spatial separation of the components of the mounting structure of the engine;

on FIG presents another General view in cross section with a spatial separation of the components of the detachable drive cartridge and the mounting unit of the engines inside the parts of the handle body;

FIG. 33 is a side elevational view of a portion of a handle assembly, where various components are excluded for clarity;

34 is a bottom perspective view of a switch mechanism of the present invention;

on FIG presents a General view with a spatial separation of the components of the mechanism of the switch depicted in FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the switch mechanism shown in FIGS. 34 and 35 mounted to a handle assembly, the joystick control portion being in an inactive position;

FIG. 37 shows another cross-sectional view of the switch mechanism shown in FIG. 36, wherein the control portion of the joystick is in the activated position;

FIG. 38 is a side cross-sectional view of the switch mechanism shown in FIG. 36;

FIG. 39 is a side cross-sectional view of the switch mechanism shown in FIG. 37;

on FIG presents a side view in vertical projection of the mechanism of the switch shown in FIG 34-39;

on FIG presents a front view in vertical projection of the switch mechanism depicted in FIG. 34-40;

FIG. 42 shows another general view with a spatial separation of the components of the switch mechanism depicted in FIG. 34–41;

on FIG presents a rear view in vertical projection of the mechanism of the control unit with a rotary blade handle in the activated position;

on FIG presents another rear view in vertical projection of the mechanism of the control unit with a rotary blade handle in another activated position;

on FIG presents another partial view in cross section of the structures of the end effector and the node of the elongated barrel;

on Fig presents an enlarged view in cross section of a part of the design of the articulation and the design of the node of the connecting element with the connected end effector;

on Fig presents a perspective view of the design of the node handle, and part of the body of the handle is excluded;

on Fig presents an enlarged perspective view of part of the node of the handle, showing the design of the connection of the conductors;

on FIG presents a perspective view with a spatial separation of the components of the structural parts of another node of the connecting element and the design of the articulation;

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of another design of the articulation of the present invention;

on FIG presents a General view with a spatial separation of the structural components of the articulated joint depicted in FIG. 50;

FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge structure shown in FIGs. 50 and 51;

on FIG presents another view in cross section in perspective of the design of the articulated joint depicted in FIG. 50-52;

on Fig presents a perspective view of another design of the articulation of the present invention;

on FIG presents a General view with a spatial separation of the structural components of the articulated joint depicted in FIG.

FIG. 56 is a partial cross-sectional view of the hinge structure shown in FIGs. 54 and 55;

on FIG presents another partial view in cross section of the design of the articulated joint depicted in FIG. 54-56;

FIG. 58 shows another partial perspective view in cross section of the articulated joint structure depicted in FIGs. 54-57;

on Fig presents another partial perspective view in cross section of the design of the articulated joint depicted in Fig.54-58, with the articulation in a pivotally rotated orientation;

in FIG. 60 shows another partial perspective view in cross section of the design of the articulated joint depicted in FIG. 54-59, with the articulation in another articulated orientation;

on Fig presents a perspective view of another design of the articulation of the present invention;

on FIG presents another perspective view of the design of the articulated joint depicted in FIG. 60, in a pivotally rotated orientation;

on FIG presents a General view with a spatial separation of the components of the articulated joint depicted in FIG.61 and 62;

on Fig presents a view in cross section of the design of the articulated joint depicted in Fig.61–63;

on Fig presents another view in cross section in perspective of the design of the articulated joint depicted in FIG.61-64;

on FIG presents another cross-sectional view in perspective of the design of the articulated joint depicted in FIG.61-65, in a pivotally rotated orientation;

on FIG presents a perspective view of another design of the mounting unit of the engines of the present invention;

FIG. 68 is a front elevational view of the structure of the engine mounting assembly shown in FIG. 67;

on FIG presents a General view with a spatial separation of the components of the design of the mounting unit of the engines depicted in FIG and 67;

on FIG presents a perspective view of some forms of the electrosurgical end effector for use with a surgical instrument;

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of some forms of the end effector shown in FIG. 70, with closed jaws and with a distal end of an element configured to move axially in a partially advanced position;

FIG. 72 shows a perspective view of some forms of an element configured to axially move the end effector shown in FIG. 70;

FIG. 73 is a cross-sectional view of some forms of the end effector shown in FIG. 70;

on FIG-75 presents one form of an ultrasonic end effector for use with a surgical instrument;

on Fig-77 presents additional views of one form of element made with the possibility of axial movement of the end effector depicted in Fig.74;

on FIG presents one form of a linear end effector with brackets, suitable for use with a surgical instrument;

on FIG presents one form of a circular end effector with brackets, suitable for use with a surgical instrument;

on FIG presents several examples of power cords for use with a surgical instrument;

on FIG presents several examples of trunks suitable for use with a surgical instrument;

on Fig presents a block diagram of a node of the handle of a surgical instrument indicating the various control elements;

on FIG presents one form of various instruments of the end effector containing the circuits described in this document;

on FIG presents a block diagram showing one form of control configuration implemented by the control circuit for controlling a surgical instrument;

on FIG presents a structural diagram of one example of a process that implements the control algorithm shown in FIG;

FIG. 86 is a block diagram showing another form of control configuration implemented by a control circuit for controlling a surgical instrument;

on FIG presents a structural diagram of one example of a process that implements the control algorithm shown in FIG;

on FIG presents one form of a surgical instrument containing a relay station in the handle;

on FIG presents one form of the end effector with a sensor module in it, configured to transmit a signal;

FIG. 90 is a block diagram showing one form of a sensor module;

FIG. 91 is a block diagram showing one form of a relay station;

92 is a block diagram showing one form of a relay station configured to convert a received low power signal;

on Fig presents a structural diagram of one form for a method of relaying a signal indicating the state of the end effector;

FIG. 94 illustrates a distal portion of a tool comprising a mechanical stop, as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some aspects described herein;

FIG. 95 is a schematic diagram of a system adapted for use with an electromechanical stop comprising a power source, a control system, and a drive motor, in accordance with certain aspects described herein;

FIG. 96 is a graphical representation showing a temporary change in current associated with a tool containing an electromechanical stop without a soft stop, in accordance with some aspects described herein;

on Fig presents the distal part of the instrument, equipped with a mechanical stop containing a soft stop, in which the drive element is moved to the position in front of the contact with the soft stop in the second position of the end of the beat, in accordance with some aspects described herein;

FIG. 98 illustrates the tool of FIG. 97, in which the drive element moves through a first position of the end of the beat to a second position of the end of the beat, in accordance with some aspects described herein;

99 is a graphical representation showing a temporary change in current associated with a tool comprising an electromechanical stop with a soft stop, in accordance with some aspects described herein;

FIG. 100 is a perspective view of an alternative engine mount assembly that uses a gear drive cartridge assembly;

FIG. 101 shows another perspective view of the engine mounting assembly shown in FIG. 100, in which the distal barrel body is excluded for clarity;

FIG. 102 shows another perspective view of the engine mounting assembly shown in FIGS. 100 and 101;

FIG. 103 is a cross-sectional view of an engine mount assembly depicted in FIGs. 100-102;

on FIG presents a top view of the mounting unit of the engines depicted in FIG.100-103;

on FIG presents one form of a surgical instrument containing an end effector, straightened using a sensor, in a pivotally rotated state;

FIG. 106 presents the surgical instrument depicted in FIG. 105 in a straightened state;

on FIG presents one form of the end effector, rectified using a sensor inserted into the surgical external tube;

on FIG presents one form of the end effector, rectified using a sensor inserted into the surgical external tube, in a pivotally rotated state;

on FIG presents one form of the end effector, rectified by the sensor, in a pivotally rotated state;

on FIG presents one form of the end effector, rectified using the sensor depicted in FIG. 109, in a straightened state;

FIG. 111 shows one form of a magnetic ring for use with an end effector rectified by a sensor;

on FIG presents one form of the end effector, rectified using a sensor containing a magnetic sensor;

on FIG presents one form of a magnetic sensor with reed contact;

on FIG presents one form of a modular engine control platform;

on FIG presents one form of a modular engine control platform containing multiple pairs of engine and controller;

on FIG presents one form of a modular engine control platform containing a main controller and a slave controller;

on FIG presents one form of the control process implemented by a surgical tool controlled by multiple engines.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications filed on the same day, each of which is fully incorporated into this document by reference:

- US patent application entitled "Surgical instruments with a rotary drive, having many degrees of freedom", dossier of patent attorney No. END7195USNP / 120287;

- US Patent Application entitled “Swivel Joints with Rotary Drive for Surgical Instruments”, Patent Attorney File No. END7188USNP / 120280;

- US patent application entitled “Articulated Surgical Instruments with Conduction Paths for Signal Transmission”, Patent Attorney File No. END7187USNP / 120279;

- US Patent Application entitled “Rotary Knob Switch Mechanism for Surgical Instruments”, Patent Attorney Dossier No. END7189USNP / 120281;

- US patent application entitled "Electromechanical soft stops for surgical instruments", dossier of the patent attorney No. END7196USNP / 120288;

- US patent application entitled "Electromechanical surgical device with a design for relaying the signal", dossier of patent attorney No. END7190USNP / 120282;

- US patent application entitled "End effector rectified by a sensor during extraction through a trocar", dossier of patent attorney No. END7193USNP / 120285;

- US Patent Application entitled “Multiprocessor Motor Control for a Modular Surgical Device,” Patent Attorney Dossier No. END7091USNP / 120283; and

- US patent application entitled "Methods of controlling surgical instruments with removable working parts", dossier of patent attorney No. END7194USNP / 120286.

For a more complete understanding of the design, principles of operation, production and application of the devices and methods described herein, the following is a description of individual examples of implementation. One or more examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting embodiments, and that the scope of various embodiments of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. Features illustrated or described with reference to one embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. It is intended that the scope of the present invention include such modifications and variations.

The terms “contain” (and any of its forms, such as “contains” and “containing”), “have” (and any of its forms, such as “has” and “having”), “include” (and any of its forms, such as “includes” and “including”), “enclose” (and any of its forms, such as “encloses” and “enclosing”) are unlimited connecting verbs. As a result, a surgical system or device that "contains," "has," "includes," or "accommodates" one or more elements has this one or more elements, but possession is not limited to only one or more elements. Similarly, an element of a system or device that “contains”, “has”, “includes” or “accommodates” one or more elements has this one or more elements, but possession is not limited to only one or more elements.

As used herein, the terms “proximal” and “distal” are used from the perspective of a physician manipulating a portion of the handle of a surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the part located closest to the doctor, and the term "distal" refers to the part located away from the doctor. It should also be understood that for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “top” and “bottom” may be used with respect to the drawings in this document. However, surgical instruments are used in a variety of orientations and positions, and it is not intended that these terms be limiting and / or absolute.

Various examples of devices and methods for carrying out laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical interventions are proposed. However, it will be quite clear to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various methods and devices described herein can be applied to a variety of surgical interventions as well as applications, including, for example, areas related to open surgical interventions. In the course of this detailed description, those skilled in the art will be able to further appreciate that the various instruments described herein can be inserted into the body in any way — through a natural hole, through an incision or a puncture hole made into the tissue, etc. The working parts or parts of the end effector of the instruments can be inserted into the patient’s body either directly or through an access device having a working channel through which the end effector and the elongated shaft of the surgical instrument can be advanced.

Referring to the drawings, in which the same numbers denote the same components in several views, FIGS. 1-3 show a surgical tool 10 capable of applying rotary starting movements to a working part 100 functionally connected to it. As will be described in more detail below, the tool 10 can effectively applied to a number of various tools that can be interchangeably connected to tool 10. The design shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, for example, is shown connected to an end effector 102 made with POSSIBILITY cutting and stapling tissue staples. However, tools 10 with other structures can also be controlled by tool 10.

End effector

The end effector 102 shown in FIGS. 1-6 includes an elongated element 110 with a channel, which can be configured to functionally and removably support the cassette 130 with brackets. The cassette 130 with brackets may include an upper surface, or platform 132, of the cassette, which includes a plurality of recesses 134 for brackets arranged in staggered lines on each side of the elongated groove 136. See FIG. 3. Many surgical staples 140 are supported on respective staple ejectors 138, which are functionally supported within staple recesses 134. As also seen in FIG. 3, in one form, the end effector 102 includes an end base 150 configured to connect to the proximal end of the cassette 130 with brackets and mounted inside the proximal end of the elongated channel 110. For example, the end base 150 may be formed with distally directed tabs 152 made for insertion into the corresponding locking grooves 142 in the platform 132 of the cartridge. In addition, the end base 150 may be equipped with laterally directed mounting tabs 154 for attaching the end base 150 to the elongated channel 110. For example, the mounting tabs 154 may be adapted to receive into the corresponding mounting holes 112 in the elongated channel 110.

In one form, the end base 150 includes a centrally located groove 156 adapted to support the fabric cutting member 160 and the sled 170. The cutting fabric element 160 may include a housing portion 162 on which the cutting fabric portion 164 is made or otherwise attached. The housing portion 162 may be threaded onto the drive screw 180 of the end effector, rotatably mounted inside the elongated channel 110. The slide 170 is supported to move along the axis relative to the drive screw 180 to the front effector and can be configured to interact with the casing part 162 of the fabric cutting member 160. When the distal cutting fabric is pushed out, the slide element 160 is pushed out by the distal cutting fabric element 160. When the distal slide is pushed out 170, the wedges 172 formed on them serve to move up ejectors 138 inside the cassette 130 with brackets.

The end effector 102 may further include an emphasis assembly 190 supported to be selectively movable relative to the cassette 130 with brackets. In at least one form, the stop assembly 190 may comprise a first stop portion 192 connected to a rear stop portion 194 and an upper stop portion 196. The back portion 194 of the stop may have a pair of laterally protruding support rollers 198 configured to receive holes or cavities 114 in the elongated channel 110 in order to provide rotational movement or movement to move the stop assembly 190 relative to the elongated channel 110 and supported in nem cartridges 130 with brackets.

The tissue-cutting member 160 may be equipped with a pair of laterally protruding drive tongues 166 adapted to slide inwardly into the grooves 199 in the stop assembly 190. In addition, the tissue cutting member 160 may further have a shoe 168, the size of which allows it to engage with the bottom of the elongated channel 110, so that when the distal cutting tissue member 160 is pushed out, the tongues 166 and shoe 168 cause the stop assembly 190 to move to the closed position. The tongues 166 and shoe 168 can serve to separate the stop assembly 190 and the cassette 130 with brackets to the desired distance during cutting and stitching of the fabric. On the first stop portion 192, there may be a staple-forming lower portion 193 for forming surgical staples 140 when they are pushed in contact with it. FIG. 4 shows the position of the stop assembly 190 and the cutting element 160 when the emphasis assembly 190 is in the open position. FIG. 5 shows the position of the stop assembly 190 and the cutting member 160 after closing the stop 190, but before the cutting tissue, the member 160 is distally advanced or “activated”. FIG. 6 shows the position of the fabric cutting member 160 after it has moved to the most distal position inside the cassette 130 with brackets.

The end effector drive screw 180 may be rotatably supported within the elongated channel 110. For example, in one form, the end effector drive screw 180 may have a proximal end 182 connected to the drive shaft mounting member 184, which is configured to dock with the connecting member assembly 200. The drive shaft mounting member 184 may be configured to attach an end effector to the proximal end 182 of the drive screw 180. For example, the drive shaft mounting member 184 may have a hexagonal protrusion 186 directed away from it and configured to insert without turning into the corresponding hexagonal socket, which is part of the trigger system, essentially designated as element 500. Turning the drive screw 180 of the end effector in the first direction forces tissue cutting element 160 is moved in the distal direction. In various forms, the cassette 130 with brackets can be equipped with a pair of shock absorbers 174, which serve to absorb the slide 170 when they reach the most distal position inside the elongated channel 110. Each of the shock absorbers 174 can have a spring 176 to give the shock absorber the necessary shock absorbing ability.

End effector connector assembly

Various forms of instruments 100 may be operatively attached to a surgical instrument 10 through a connector assembly 200. One form of connector assembly 200 is shown in FIGS. 7-14. The node 200 of the connecting element may include a housing part 202 of the connecting element configured to functionally support the node of the drive gears, collectively designated as the element 220. In at least one form, the node of the drive gears 220 includes an input gear 222, a gear gear 228 and an output gear 232 See FIG. 8. The input gear 222 is mounted or formed on the input shaft 224, which is rotatably supported by the first and second baffle elements 204, 206. The input shaft 224 has a proximal end 226 adapted to interface with the distal segment 510 of the launch barrel, which is part of a unique new launch system 500, which will be described in more detail below. For example, the proximal end 226 can be made with a hexagonal cross-sectional shape for insertion without the possibility of turning into a hex socket 512 formed at the distal end of the distal segment 510 of the launch barrel. Transmission gear 228 may be mounted or formed on the transmission shaft 230, rotatably supported by baffle elements 204, 206. The output gear 232 may be mounted or formed on the output drive shaft 234, rotatably supported by the baffle elements 204, 206. B for assembly purposes, the distal end 236 of the output drive shaft 234 may be rotatably attached to the output socket 238 protruding distally through the distal end cover 210. In one design the distal end cap 210 may be attached to the housing 202 of the connecting element by fasteners 208 or any other suitable mounting structures. The output socket 238 may be attached on a pin to the distal end 236 of the output drive shaft 234. The output socket 238 may be coupled without being rotated to the drive shaft mounting member 184. For example, the outlet socket 238 may be hexagonal so that it can be aligned with the hexagonal protrusion 186 on the drive shaft mounting member 184. In addition, to ensure the functional connection of the tool 100 to the node 200 of the connecting element on the end cover 210, a fastening protrusion can be formed or attached.

One embodiment of the assembly of the coupling member assembly 200 may further include a locking assembly substantially designated as member 240. In at least one form, the locking assembly 240 includes a spring-loaded locking member, or pin 242, supported to move within a locking groove 214 formed in the housing parts 202 of the connecting element. The locking pin 242 may be configured to axially move within the locking groove 214 so that its locking end 244 protrudes through an opening 211 in the end cap 210. See FIG. 8. A blocking spring 246 is mounted on the blocking pin 242 to bias the blocking pin 242 within the blocking slot 214 in the distal direction DD. The activation lever 248 can be formed on or attached to the locking pin 242, allowing the user to transmit an unlocking movement in the proximal direction PD to the locking pin 242.

As can be seen in FIGS. 3, 9 and 10, the elongated channel 110 of the end effector 102 may have a proximal end wall 116, in which a connecting hole 118 is formed to receive the mounting protrusion 212. For example, in one design, the mounting protrusion 212 may include a neck 213 on which the fastening cap 215 is formed. The connecting hole 118 may have a first circular portion 120, the size of which allows the fastening cap 215 to be inserted into it. A narrow groove 122 may also be formed in the connecting hole 118, the size of which allows the neck 213 to be received therein. The proximal end wall 116 may also have a blocking hole 124 for receiving the distal end 244 of the blocking pin 242 therein.

One way to attach the end effector 102 to the node 200 of the connecting element of the surgical instrument 10 can be understood by referring to FIGS. 12-14. For example, to attach the end effector 102 to the coupler assembly 200, a user can combine the hexagonal protrusion 186 on the drive shaft mounting member 184 with the hex output socket 238. Similarly, the hat 215 can be combined with the circular part 120 of the connecting hole 118, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 12. Then, the user can axially move the protrusion 186 into the socket 238 and the fastening hat 215 into the connecting hole 118, as shown in FIG. 13 . The user can then rotate the end effector 102 (as shown by the arrow R in FIG. 14), causing the neck 213 to enter the groove 122 and allowing the distal end 244 of the locking pin 242 to snap into the locking hole 124 to prevent further rotation of the end effector 102 relative to the coupling assembly 200 item. This design serves to functionally attach the end effector 102 to the surgical instrument 10.

To disconnect the end effector 102 from the coupler assembly 200, the user can apply a release motion to the activation lever 246 to move the locking pin in the proximal direction PD. This movement of the locking pin 242 causes the distal end 244 of the locking pin 242 to exit the locking hole 124 in the end wall 116 of the elongated channel 110. After that, the user can freely rotate the end effector 102 relative to the connector assembly in the opposite direction, leading the neck 213 of the mounting protrusion 212 out of the groove 122 and allowing the fastening cap 215 to exit axially out of the connecting hole 118 in the end effector 102, and thereby disconnecting the end effector 102 from the node 200 will connect ceiling elements element. From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the connecting member assembly 200 forms a new unique design for the functional attachment of the surgical instrument 100, which functions by applying rotary driving movements (motions) to the surgical instrument 10. In particular, the connecting member assembly 200 allows the attachment of a variety of surgical instruments 100 or end effectors 102 to the node 30 of the elongated shaft of the surgical instrument 10.

Hinge system

As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the elongated barrel assembly 30 may form the axis of the barrel A – A. In at least one form, the elongated stem assembly 30 may include a hinge system 300 for selectively pivoting the end effector 102 around an axis of the hinge B – B, which is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the barrel A – A. One form of the hinge system 300 is shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. As can be seen in the figures, the hinge system 300 may include a power joint 310. In at least one design, the articulation 310 includes a distal articulation portion or a distal bracket 312 that is rotatably supported by a proximal directional sleeve 203 of the housing portion 202 of the connecting member by means of a distal housing bearing 314. See FIG. The distal bracket 312 can be rotatably attached to the proximal portion of the joint or proximal bracket 330 by means of a hinge pin 332 forming the axis of the hinge B – B. See FIG. 18. The distal bracket 312 may include a distally protruding mounting sleeve 316, the size of which allows it to be received inside the proximal end of the housing 202 of the connecting element. An attachment sleeve 316 may have an annular groove 318 configured to receive the mounting pins 320 therein. See FIG. 8. The mounting pins 320 serve to secure the housing portion 202 of the connecting element to the distal bracket 312 so that the housing portion 202 of the connecting element can rotate relative to the distal bracket 312 around the axis of the barrel A – A. As can be seen in FIG. 20, the distal segment 510 of the launch barrel passes through the sleeve 203 of the housing portion 202 of the connecting element and is rotatably supported relative to it by the distal bearing 322 of the launch barrel mounted inside the sleeve 203.

To facilitate the application of rotary driving or starting movement to the end effector 102, as well as to ensure the rotation of the end effector 102 relative to the elongated barrel 30 about the axis of the barrel A – A while maintaining the possibility of pivoting the end effector 102 relative to the node 30 of the elongated barrel around the axis of the hinge B – B , articulation 310 may include a new, unique “nested” gear assembly, essentially designated as member 350 and located within gear zone 351 between distal bracket 312 and so forth. the maximal bracket 330. See FIG. 18–20. For example, in at least one form, the nested gear assembly 350 may include an inner shaft gear block 360 of the drive shaft (or “first gear block”) that is “nested” in the outer end effector gear block 380 (or “second gear block”). As used herein, the term “nested” may mean that no part of the first gear block 360 extends radially beyond any part of the second gear block 380. This unique new gear design is compact and enables the transfer of rotary control movements to the end effector, while allowing the distal bracket to rotate relative to the proximal bracket. As will be described in more detail below, the inner block 360 of the gears of the drive shaft provides the application of rotary drive or starting movements from the proximal segment 520 of the launch barrel to the distal segment 510 of the launch barrel through the articulation 310. Similarly, the external block 380 of gears of the end effector provides the application of rotary control movements to the node 200 of the connecting element from the rotation system 550 of the end effector, as will be described below in more detail.

For example, in at least one form, the inner block 360 of the gears of the drive shaft may include

a distal bevel gear 362 of the drive shaft, which can be attached to the proximal end of the distal segment 510 of the launch barrel by means of a screw 364. See FIG. The inner block 360 of the gears of the drive shaft may also include a proximal bevel gear 366 of the drive shaft, which is attached to the proximal segment 520 of the launch barrel by means of a screw 368. See FIG.20. In addition, the inner shaft block 360 of the gears of the drive shaft may also include a gear gear 370 of the drive shaft mounted on the bearing 374 of the transmission gear, which is mounted on the transverse shaft 372 of the gear. See FIG. 17. Such an internal block 360 of gears of the drive shaft can transmit rotary drive movements from the proximal segment 520 of the launch barrel via articulation 310 to the distal segment 510 of the launch barrel.

As indicated above, the nested gear assembly 350 also includes an external end effector gear assembly 380 that provides rotary control movements to the connecting member 200 from the end effector rotation system 550 through the articulation 310. In at least one shape, the outer gear assembly 380 of the end gear the effector may, for example, include an output bevel gear 382, which is mounted without the possibility of rotation (for example, on the key) on the proximal directional sleeve 203 of the body part 202 soy initelnogo element. The external end effector gear block 380 may further include an input bevel gear 384, which is rotatably attached (for example, on a key) to the proximal segment 552 of the rotary shaft of the end effector turn system 550. In addition, the external end effector gear block 380 may further include a gear pinion shaft gear 388 mounted on an outer gear bearing 386, which is supported on a transversely directed pivot pin 332. See FIG. 17. The hinge pin 332 passes through the hollow transverse gear shaft 372 and serves to swivel the distal bracket 312 with the proximal bracket 330 to pivot about the transverse axis of the hinge B – B. The hinge pin 332 can be held in place by spring clips 334. This unique new hinge joint 310 and the nested gear assembly 350 transmit various control movements from the handle assembly 20 through the elongated barrel assembly 30 to the end effector 102, while allowing the end effector 102 to rotate about an axis A – A of the elongated barrel and pivotally rotate around the axis of the hinge B – B.

The rotation of the end effector 102 about the axis of the hinge B-B relative to the node 30 of the elongated barrel can be carried out using the system 400 control the hinge. In various forms, the hinge control system 400 may include a hinge control engine 402 that is functionally supported in the handle assembly 20. See FIG. 15. The hinge control motor 402 may be coupled to the hinge drive assembly 410, which is functionally supported on a detachable drive chuck 700, which is removably supported on the handle assembly 20, as will be described in more detail below. In at least one form, the hinge drive assembly 410 may include a proximal segment 412 of the hinge drive barrel, which is rotatably supported by a detachable drive cartridge 700 in the barrel housing assembly 710. See FIGS. 27 and 28. For example, the proximal segment 412 of the hinge drive barrel can be rotatably supported inside the distal portion 712 of the barrel body by pivot bearings 414. In addition, the proximal segment 412 of the hinge drive barrel can be rotatably supported proximal part 714 of the barrel body by means of bearings 415. See FIG. 28. The hinge control system 400 may also include a proximal segment of the hinge barrel 420, rotatable about the axis A-A of the hinge shaft by the hinge control engine 402. As can also be seen in FIG. 15, the hinge drive assembly 410 may also include a pair of hinge drive rollers 416, 417 that drive the hinge drive belt 418. Thus, activation of the hinge control engine 402 can cause the proximal segment 420 of the hinge shaft to rotate about the axis of the A – A shaft. See FIG. 15.

As can be seen in FIGS. 15 and 16, the proximal segment 420 of the hinge barrel has a threaded portion 422 configured to be threadedly connected to the joint plate 424 of the hinge drive. Turning the distal segment 420 of the hinge drive shaft in the first direction can move the hinge drive connecting plate 424 axially in the distal direction DD, and rotating the distal segment 420 of the hinge drive shaft in the opposite or second direction can move the hinge drive connecting plate 424 axially in the proximal direction PD . The hinge drive connection bar 424 can be connected to the hinge rail 426 via a pin 428. The hinge rail 426, in turn, can be connected to the distal bracket 312 via a pin 429. See FIG. 17. Thus, when the doctor needs to rotate the end effector 102 or tool 100 around the axis of the hinge B – B with respect to the extended barrel assembly 30, the doctor activates the hinge control engine 402 so that the hinge control engine 402 rotates the proximal segment of the hinge shaft 420, thereby moving the hinge rail 426 to the desired position to rotate the distal bracket 312 (and the end effector 102 attached thereto) in the desired direction. See FIG.21 and 22.

Starting system

As indicated above, the end effector 102 may be driven by rotary control motions applied to the drive screw 180 of the end effector by the trigger system 500, which includes a distal trigger barrel segment 510 and a trigger barrel proximal segment 520. See FIG. 23. The proximal segment 520 of the launching barrel contains a portion of the node 30 of the elongated barrel and can be supported to rotate within the hollow proximal segment 552 of the rotary shaft through the sleeve 522 of the distal bearing. See FIG. 20. Returning to FIG. 23, in at least one form, the starting system 500 includes a starting engine 530, which is functionally supported in the handle assembly 20. The proximal end of the trigger shaft proximal segment 520 may be rotatably supported within a detachable drive cartridge 700 and may be configured to couple to the trigger motor 530, as described in detail below. As can be seen in FIG. 30, the proximal end of the trigger shaft proximal segment 520 may be rotatably supported in a thrust bearing 524 mounted with a distal baffle plate 722 of the drive cartridge baffle assembly 720. Activation of the starting motor 530 ultimately leads to the rotation of the drive screw 180 of the end effector and the application of the rotary control movement to the end effector 102.

End Effector Swivel System

In various forms, the surgical instrument 10 may also include an end effector rotation system or a "distal rotation system" 550 to selectively rotate the end effector 102 relative to the elongated stem assembly 30 about the axis of the stem A – A. The end effector pivoting system 550 may include a proximal pivot shaft segment 552, which also includes part of an elongated trunk assembly 30. As can be seen in FIG. 20, the pivot shaft proximal segment 552 can be rotatably supported within the proximal bracket 330 by the distal bearing 554 and the proximal bearing 556. In addition, the pivot shaft proximal segment 552 can be pivoted within the hinge trunk proximal segment 420 by the sleeve 558 of the distal bearing and the proximal bearing 559. See FIGS. 20 and 30. The proximal end of the proximal segment 552 of the pivot shaft can also support live with the possibility of rotation within the node 720 of the septum of the drive cartridge by means of a proximal bearing 555, as can be seen in FIG.

In at least one form, the end effector 550 rotation system may include a motor that rotates the end effector (or “distal rotation motor”) 560, which is functionally supported in the handle assembly 20. See FIG. 24. The end effector rotation motor 560 may be coupled to the rotary drive assembly 570, which is functionally supported on the detachable drive cartridge 700. In at least one form, the rotary drive assembly 570 includes a proximal segment 572 of the rotary drive barrel that is rotatably supported in the housing assembly 710 barrel detachable drive cartridge 700. See FIG. For example, the proximal segment 572 of the rotary actuator barrel may be rotatably supported within the distal portion 712 of the barrel body by bearings 576. In addition, the proximal segment 572 of the barrel of the rotary actuator is rotatably supported in the proximal portion 714 of the barrel housing by the bearing 577. See FIG. 28. As can be seen in FIGS. 24 and 28, the rotary drive assembly 570 may also include a pair of rotary drive rollers 574, 575 that drive the rotary drive belt 578. Thus, activation of the end effector turning motor 560 rotates the proximal segment 552 of the rotary trunk around the axis of the stem A – A. The rotation of the proximal segment 552 of the rotary shaft leads to the rotation of the node 200 of the connecting element and, as a result, the end effector 102 connected to it.

Barrel rotation system

Various forms of surgical instrument 10 may also include a barrel rotation system, generally referred to as element 600. As used herein, a barrel rotation system may also be referred to as a “proximal rotation system." In at least one form, the barrel rotation system 600 includes a proximal segment 602 of the outer trunk, which also comprises part of an elongated stem assembly 30. The proximal segment 602 of the external shaft has a distal end 604 that is rotatably connected to the proximal bracket 330. As can be seen in FIGS. 19 and 26, there is a gap 606 at the distal end 604 so that the hinge rail 426 is activated relative to it. The barrel rotation system 600 may include a barrel rotation engine (or “proximal rotation engine”) 610, which is functionally supported in the handle assembly 20. The barrel rotation engine 610 may be coupled to a barrel drive assembly 620 that is functionally supported on a detachable drive cartridge 700. In at least one form, the barrel drive assembly 620 includes a proximal drive barrel segment 622 that is rotatably supported in a distal portion 712 of the barrel body detachable drive chuck 700 by bearings 624. See FIG. 28. In addition, the proximal segment 622 of the drive shaft is rotatably supported in the proximal part 714 of the drive barrel body via a bearing 626. As can be seen in FIGS. 26 and 28, the barrel drive assembly 620 may also include a pair of rotary drive roller 630, 632, which drive the belt 634 drive the barrel. The drive roller 632 is rotatably attached to the proximal segment 602 of the drive shaft so that the rotation of the drive roller 632 rotates the proximal segment 602 of the drive shaft and the end effector 102 attached thereto around the axis of the barrel A – A. As can be further seen in FIGS. 28 and 30, the proximal segment 602 of the drive shaft is rotatably supported within the distal portion 712 of the barrel body through a pair of sleeve sleeves of bearings 607 and 608.

New unique designs of the hinge systems of the present invention provide many degrees of freedom of the end effector and provide the application of rotary control movements to it. For example, during some surgical operations, it may be necessary to place the end effector in the same plane as the target tissue. The various constructions of the present invention provide the end effector with at least three degrees of freedom while satisfying dimensional constraints often encountered when performing surgical interventions, for example, by a laparoscopic method.

Various forms of this surgical instrument provide the user with improved handling capabilities, accuracy and efficiency when placing the end effector relative to the target tissue. For example, in conventional articulated articulations of the trunk, usually used to transfer force, the universal joint (s), joints of the type of vertebral joints and bendable joints are often used. All of these methods may have performance limitations, including bending radius restrictions and excessive length characteristics. The various forms of the new unique elongated barrel assemblies and drive systems described herein, for example, minimize the distance between the hinge axis and the end effector in comparison with other conventional hinge structures. The structures of the elongated barrel and articulated nodes described herein provide transmission of at least one rotary control motion to the end effector, and also provide the end effector with many degrees of freedom, allowing the end effector to be accurately positioned relative to the target tissue.

After the end effector 102 or instrument 100 is used, it can be disconnected from the assembly 200 of the connecting element of the surgical instrument 10 and either disposed of or separately reprocessed and sterilized using suitable sterilization methods. Surgical instrument 10 can be used many times in combination with new end effectors / instruments. Depending on the specific application, it may be necessary to re-sterilize the surgical instrument 10. For example, the instrument 10 may be re-sterilized before use in another surgical procedure.

Surgical instruments must be sterile before use. A common way to sterilize medical devices is to treat the device with water vapor at the right temperature for the right amount of time. Such sterilization procedures, although effective, are essentially ill-suited for sterilizing surgical instruments that use electrical components due to the high temperatures created in the case of methods under steam sterilization conditions. Such devices are usually sterilized by exposing them to a gas, such as ethylene oxide.

Various forms of surgical instrument 10 can be sterilized using conventional sterilization methods. In at least one form, for example, the elongated barrel assembly 30 can be made of components and materials that can be effectively sterilized by methods involving the use of relatively high sterilization temperatures. However, sterilization methods having lower processing temperatures may be needed when sterilizing, for example, the handle assembly, to avoid possible damage to electrical components. Therefore, it may be necessary to sterilize the handle assembly 20, comprising various electrical components, separately from the extension barrel assembly 30. To facilitate the use of such separate sterilization procedures, the elongated stem assembly 30, in at least one form, can be separated from the handle assembly 20.

Detachable Drive Chuck Assembly

More specifically, and with reference to FIG. 28, the detachable drive cartridge assembly 700 is functionally supported within a portion of the handle assembly 20. For example, in one form, the detachable drive cartridge assembly 700 may be mounted within the distal segments 21 and 22 of the handle housing, which may be coupled by snap elements, screws, or other mounting structures. The distal segments 21 and 22 of the handle housing, coupled together, may be referred to herein as the “distal portion of the handle housing” or “housing” 25. The detachable drive cartridge assembly 700 may, for example, include a barrel housing assembly 710 comprising a distal barrel housing 712 and a proximal barrel case 714. The detachable drive cartridge assembly 700 may also include a drive cartridge baffle assembly 720 that includes a distal baffle plate 722 and a proximal baffle plate 724. As described above in at least one form, the detachable drive cartridge assembly 700 may functionally support the assembly 410 drive hinge, the proximal end of the proximal segment 520 of the launch barrel, the node 570 of the rotary drive and the node 620 of the barrel drive. To facilitate quick connection of the launch barrel segment 520, the hinge drive assembly 410, the rotary drive assembly 570, and the barrel drive assembly 620 to the starting engine 530, the hinge control engine 402, the end effector rotation motor 560 and the barrel rotation engine 610, respectively, a new unique connecting structure can be applied .

Engine Mount

In at least one form, for example, a detachable drive cartridge assembly 700 may be removably connected to a motor mounting assembly, generally designated as element 750. A motor mounting assembly 750 may be supported within segments 23 and 24 of the handle housing that are connected together latches, screws, etc. and serve to form part 26 of the pistol grip of the handle assembly 20. See FIG. 1. Segments 23 and 24 of the handle housing, coupled together, may be referred to herein as the “proximal portion of the handle housing” or “housing” 28. As shown in FIGS. 29–32, the engine mount 750 may include a motor mount 752 that is removably supported inside segments 23 and 24 of the handle housing. In at least one form, for example, an engine mount 752 may comprise a bottom plate 754 and a vertically directed engine partition plate assembly 756. A fastening tab 758 may be formed on the bottom plate 754, which is configured to provide a holding connection when the detachable drive cartridge 700 is received in the bottom plate 730. In addition, a right position pin 772 and a left position pin 774 that protrude through distally to the corresponding right and left socket tubes 716, 718 formed in the proximal part 714 of the barrel body. See FIG. 32.

In at least one configuration, the detachable drive cartridge assembly 700 may be removably coupled to the motor mounting assembly 750 via release structures 760. As can be seen, for example, in FIG. 31, a releaseable locking structure 760 may be located on each of the sides of the engine mounting assembly 750. Each releaseable retainer structure 760 may include a retainer arm 762 that is pivotally mounted to the engine baffle assembly 756 with a corresponding pin 764. Each retainer arm 762 may protrude through a corresponding mounting hook 766 formed on the distal side of the engine baffle assembly 756. The fastening hooks 766 may be adapted to slide inwardly of the respective receiving elements 726, which protrude proximally from the proximal plate 724 of the septum of the connecting element. See FIGS. 30 and 32. When the drive chuck assembly 700 is engaged with the engine mounting assembly 750, the fastening hooks 766 are slidably engaged into the respective receiving members 726 so that the retainer arms 762 engage in retaining engagement with the locking portion 728 of the respective a receiving element 726. A latch spring 768 is associated with each latch arm 762, which biases the latch arm 762 in retaining engagement with the corresponding latching part 728, holding the detachable assembly 700 aqueous cartridge connected to the mounting assembly 750 engines. In addition, in at least one form, each latch structure 760 further includes a release button 770 that is movably coupled to the engine baffle 756 and oriented to selectively contact the latch. Each release button 770 may include a release spring 771, which biases the button 770 out of contact with its corresponding locking arm 762. When the doctor needs to disconnect the detachable drive cartridge assembly 700 from the engine mounting assembly 750, the doctor simply presses each button 770 inward, displacing the retainer arms 762 from the retaining mesh with the locking parts 728 on the receiving elements 726, and then pulls the detachable drive cartridge assembly 700 to bring it out out of engagement with a mounting assembly of 750 engines. Other release release designs may be used for releasably connecting the detachable drive cartridge assembly 700 and the motor mounting assembly 750.

At least one form of surgical instrument 10 can also be used nodes of the connecting element, designed to connect the control motors with their corresponding drive units, functionally installed in a detachable drive cartridge 700. More specifically and with reference to FIGS. 28–32, node 780 connecting element used for detachable connection node 410 of the hinge drive with the motor 402 control hinge. Node 780 of the connecting element may include a proximal connecting part 782, functionally connected to the drive shaft 404 of the joint control motor 402. In addition, the node 780 of the connecting element may further include a distal connecting part 784 attached to the proximal trunk 412 of the hinge drive. See FIGS. 28 and 32. Each distal connecting portion 784 may comprise a plurality (three shown) of connecting protrusions 786 configured to align without rotation with corresponding recessed portions 788 formed in the proximal connecting portion 782. See FIG. 30. Similarly, another distal connecting portion 784 can be attached to the proximal shaft 572 of the rotary drive assembly 570, and a corresponding proximal connecting part 782 is attached to the driving shaft 562 of the rotary drive. In addition, another distal connecting portion 784 may be attached to the proximal segment 520 of the launch barrel, and the corresponding proximal connecting part 782 is attached to the drive shaft 532 of the launch engine. Another distal connecting portion 784 may be attached to the proximal segment 622 of the drive shaft of the barrel drive unit 620, and the corresponding proximal connecting portion 782 is attached to the drive shaft 612 of the barrel turning engine 610. Such nodes 780 of the connecting element simplify the connection of the control motors with their corresponding drive units, regardless of the position of the drive trunks and engine trunks.

The various forms described above of the new unique design of the handle assembly make it possible to easily detach the elongated barrel assembly 30 from the rest of the handle assembly 20 comprising motors 402, 530, 560 and 610 and various electrical components comprising a control system essentially designated as element 800. By themselves the elongated barrel assembly 30 and the detachable drive cartridge 700 can be sterilized separately from the rest of the handle assembly containing the motors and the control system, which may be damaged when using Sobov sterilization using high temperatures. This new unique design of the detachable drive cartridge can also be used in conjunction with designs in which the drive system (motors and control components) is part of a robotic system that may be portable or non-portable.

Gear Drive Chuck Design

On FIG-1003 presents an alternative drive cartridge 5700, which uses a set of gear drives to transmit drive movements from the engines to their respective trunks. As can be seen in FIG. 100, the drive cartridge 5700 may include a distal barrel housing assembly 5710, which includes a distal barrel housing 5712 functionally supporting a plurality of structures with gear units.

The distal barrel housing 5712 is configured to be removably mounted on the proximal septum plate 5724 of a connecting element having a pair of mounting sockets 5725 for receiving respective mounting hooks 5713 protruding from the distal barrel housing 5712, as can be seen in FIG. As in the above constructions, the trunk of the launch, or dissecting, engine 530 is directly connected to the proximal segment 5520 of the launch barrel through the node 5780 of the connecting element, as can be seen in FIG. The proximal segment 5552 of the rotary shaft of the rotary system of the end effector 550 is rotated by the gear block, essentially designated as element 5565. At least in one form, for example, the gear block 5565 includes a driven gear 5566 attached to the proximal segment 5552 of the rotary shaft and supported in the gear meshing with the drive gear 5567. As can be seen in more detail in FIG. 103, the drive gear 5567 is mounted on a protruding barrel 5568, which is rotatably supported in di steel case 5712 barrel. The protruding barrel 5568 is connected to the barrel of the rotational motor of the end effector, or the distal rotation motor 560, via a coupling member 5780.

The proximal segment 5420 of the hinge shaft is rotated by a gear block substantially designated as element 5430. In at least one shape, for example, gear block 5430 includes a driven gear 5432 attached to the proximal segment 5420 of the hinge shaft and supported in gear engagement with the drive gear 5434 As can be seen in more detail in FIG. 102, the drive gear 5434 is mounted on a protruding shaft 5436, which is rotatably supported in a distal barrel housing 5712. The protruding barrel 5436 is connected to the barrel of the hinge control engine 402 via a coupling member 5780.

The proximal segment 5602 of the outer shaft is rotated by the gear block, essentially designated as element 5640. In at least one form, for example, the gear block 5640 includes a driven gear 5642 attached to the proximal segment 5602 of the outer trunk and supported in gear engagement with a double-sided bevel gear 5644, which is rotatably supported within the distal trunk housing 5712. The two-way bevel gear 5644 is in gear engagement with the bevel gear assembly 5646 mounted on the protruding barrel 5648, which is also rotatably supported in the distal barrel housing 5712. The protruding barrel 5648 is connected to the barrel of the barrel rotation engine, or proximal rotation engine 610, via a coupling member 5780. See FIG. 101. Alternative engines and gear blocks of the drive cartridge 5700 may be used to power and operate a surgical instrument as described herein.

Power and Control Systems

In various forms in the surgical instrument 10, a control system, essentially designated as element 800, can be used to control the various motors used in the instrument. Engines 402, 530, 560, and 610, and associated control components, may also be referred to herein as an “electric drive system”, generally referred to as element 398. In one form, an electric drive system 398 serves to “electrically generate” a plurality of control movements. The term "electrical generation" means the use of electrical signals to activate an engine or other device powered by electricity, and this can be distinguished from control movements created manually or in another mechanical way, without the use of electric current. In one form, the electric drive system 398 may be functionally supported within the handle assembly, which the physician may hold in the arm or in the arms. However, in other forms, the electric drive system 398 may be part of and / or may be driven and / or supported by a robotic system.

In one form, motors 402, 530, 560, and 610 and associated control components

can receive power from a battery 802 located inside a pistol grip portion 26 of the grip assembly 20. In other designs, the battery may be supported, for example, by a robotic system. However, in other embodiments, the handle assembly 20 may have a power cord (not shown) exiting therefrom for supplying energy from another power source. In other configurations, motors and electrical components may receive power and control signals from a robotic system. The control system 800 may include various components of the control system, which may include, for example, a distal circuit board 810 that is supported on a detachable drive cartridge 700. The distal circuit board 810 may include electrical connectors 812 and / or electrical components that can be sterilized by conventional steam techniques sterilization, as well as other low-temperature sterilization methods. The control system 800 may further include a proximal printed circuit board 820, which is supported in a portion of the handle assembly 20 formed by segments 23 and 24 of the handle housing. The proximal printed circuit board 820 is electrically connected to the distal printed circuit board 810 while connecting the detachable drive cartridge 700 to the motor mounting assembly 750.

In various forms of the surgical instrument 10, a new and unique control switch mechanism 830 may be used that can functionally fit inside or be supported by the pistol grip part 26 of the grip assembly 20. For example, in at least one form, the control switch mechanism 830 may include a new unique control joystick 840, allowing the user to provide maximum functional control of various aspects of the surgical instrument 10 through a single interface. More specifically, and referring to FIGS. 33–39, one form of control joystick 840 may include a joystick control barrel 842 operably attached to the joystick switch assembly 850, which is moveable within the switch housing assembly 844. The switch housing assembly 844 may be installed inside the pistol grip portion 26 of the handle assembly 20. In at least one form, for example, the switch housing assembly 844 may include a housing main portion 846 and a housing rear plate 848. As can be seen in more detail in FIGS. 35–39, the joystick printed circuit board 852 can be functionally supported on the joystick node 850 of the switches via the rear mounting plate 854. The rear mounting plate 854 can be movably mounted as a unit with the joystick node 850 of the switches and the printed circuit board 852 joysticks inside the 844 switch case. A joystick spring 856 may be maintained between the rear housing plate 848 and the rear mounting plate 854, biasing the joystick switch assembly 850 and the joystick control barrel 842 forward or distally. See FIG. 36 and 38.

The control joystick 840 may be electrically connected to the proximal printed circuit board 820 and the battery 802 of the control system 800 through various connecting cables 864, providing control of the power supply to various motors 402, 530, 560 and 610 of the surgical instrument 10. For example, by rejecting or otherwise activating the control the joystick barrel 842, the user can control the hinge control engine 402 and / or the distal rotation engine 560 and / or the proximal rotation engine 610.

The joystick switch assembly 850 may be referred to herein as a “first switch” to control one or more motors of an electric drive system. The control joystick 840 may further include a first sensor 860, which may include, for example, a magnet that can be mounted on the joystick printed circuit board 852 to move with it. In addition, a second, or fixed, sensor 862 may be installed inward from the rear plate 848 of the housing. The second sensor 862 may comprise, for example, a "Hall sensor" or similar sensing device. In at least one embodiment, for example, the sensor 862 may be configured to communicate with the starting motor 530. The first and second sensors 860, 862 herein may be referred to as a “second switch”, essentially designated as element 858. The above design allows the joystick node 850 of the switch to move axially in and out when the user presses the control barrel 842 of the joystick. By utilizing the inward and outward movement of the entire joystick assembly 850 of the switches in at least one form, the structure essentially comprises a switch within the switch. In the non-activated position, the joystick spring 856 biases the joystick assembly 850 of the switches forward (in the distal direction). When the doctor pushes the joystick 842 inward (proximally), the first sensor 860 moves closer to the second sensor 862. Moving the first sensor 860 closer to the second sensor 862 can lead to the activation of the so-called second switch 858, which can activate the cut-off, or starting, motor 530.

When performing the procedure using the end effector 102, the physician may need to open and close the stop assembly 190 to move the target tissue to the desired position without cutting or cutting the tissue. In one form, when the physician initially presses the joystick control barrel 842, the second switch 858 activates the starting motor 530, thereby causing the cutting tissue element 160 to begin to move distally. In various forms, the tissue cutting member 160 is positioned inside the end effector 102 such that the initial movement of the tissue cutting member 160 in the distal direction causes the stop assembly 190 to close (i.e., turn toward the cassette 130 with braces without cutting tissue or triggering surgical staples). When the doctor releases the joystick control barrel 842, the joystick spring 856 shifts the joystick switch assembly 850 distally, thereby moving the first sensor 860 from the second sensor 862. Moving the sensor 860 from the second sensor 862 can reduce the rotation speed of the starting engine 530 until the starting engine 530 stops or does not shut down completely. In at least one form, this mechanism of the second switch 858 may be configured such that the rotation speed of the starting engine 530 is directly proportional to the speed at which the user presses the joystick control barrel 842.

After the doctor performs the placement and capture of the target tissue by the end effector 102, the end effector 102 can be activated, or "start", by fully pressing the joystick control barrel 842. In various forms, the joystick switch assembly 850 may also include a third compression switch 866 made integrally with this assembly, also associated with the control system 800. Pressing the joystick control barrel 842 fully can activate the third switch 866. In at least one form, when When the third switch 866 is activated, the starting engine 530 will remain activated even after the doctor releases the joystick control barrel 842. After the start of the clock cycle (i.e., after the cutting fabric element 160 has been pushed to its most distal position in the end effector 102), the user can again press the joystick control barrel 842 and release the third switch 866, thereby returning control to the starting motor 530 to the second switch 858. Thus, if the doctor releases the control barrel 842 of the joystick after fully pressing it a second time, the spring 856 of the joystick will shift the joystick assembly 850 of the switches to its original position. The control system 800 will cause the starting motor 530 to rotate in the opposite direction until the cutting tissue member 160 returns to its original position, where the stop assembly 190 again moves to the open position, allowing the end effector 102 to release the dissected tissue.

In various forms, the switch mechanism 830 can also use the new unique rotary knob control unit 870. As can be seen in FIG. 42, the control unit 870 with a rotary handle can be mounted to rotate on the distal protruding portion 845 of the sleeve of the switch housing unit 844 so that the control unit 870 with the rotary handle can rotate around the axis of the SA-SA switch. In this position, the element - the actuator 872 of the rotary handle of the control unit 870 with the rotary handle is conveniently located in a position in which the doctor can rotate it with the thumb and / or index finger while holding the pistol grip part 26 of the handle assembly 20 in the hand. Element - actuator 872 of the rotary handle can be attached to the collar 874 of the rotary handle, worn on part 845 of the sleeve, and can be held in a position to rotate using the mounting flange 27 formed by segments 23 and 24 of the handle. The left sensor (magnet) 876 and the right sensor (magnet) 878 are mounted on the collar 874 of the rotary knob, as shown in FIG. Sensors 876 and 878 may have opposite polarities. The fixed sensor 880 can be mounted on the switch housing assembly 844 so that it is centrally located between the left sensor 876 and the right sensor 878. The fixed sensor 880 can be, for example, a "Hall sensor", and can be connected to the proximal printed circuit board 820 control system 800 to control one of the control engines. For example, the control unit 870 with a rotary handle can be used, for example, to control a proximal rotation engine, or a barrel rotation engine 610. In other designs, the control unit 870 with a rotary handle can be used to control the distal rotation motor 560 to rotate the end effector around the axis of the barrel relative to the elongated barrel assembly. You can use a pair of centering springs 882 to shift the collar 874 of the rotary handle to a central, or neutral, position. When the rotary handle collar 874 is in the neutral position, as shown in FIG. 41, the barrel rotation engine or proximal rotation engine 610 (or distal rotation engine 560, as the case may be) is stopped.

When the user rotates the rotary handle actuator 872 clockwise to the position shown in FIG. 43, the control system 800 can cause the barrel rotation engine 610 to rotate the elongated barrel assembly 30 around the axis of the barrel A – A clockwise. Similarly, when the user rotates the rotary handle actuator 872 counterclockwise to the position shown in FIG. 44, the control system 800 can cause the barrel rotary engine 610 to rotate the elongated barrel assembly 30 counterclockwise around the axis of the barrel A – A. In other words, when the user rotates the rotary handle actuator 872 clockwise or counterclockwise, the fixed sensor 880 controls the direction of rotation of the elongated barrel assembly 30 depending on the proximity of the left or right sensors 876, 878 relative to the fixed sensor 880. The reaction of the fixed sensor 880 can adjust so that as the user rotates the rotary handle actuator 872, the relative speed with which the engine 610 rotates the elongated assembly 30 trunk increased. As can be seen in FIGS. 41–44, a locking protrusion 847 may be formed on the switch housing assembly 844 to interact with a slot 875 in the collar of the rotary handle to prevent contact between the movable sensors 876, 878 and the stationary sensor 880. One skilled in the art will understand that the control unit 870 with a rotary handle can be used to control any other motors of the surgical instrument 10. Similarly, the control joystick 840 can be controlled any one or more motors in the surgical instrument 10. New unique designs of the control unit with a rotary handle described in this document allow the user to carry out functional control by rotating the ergonomic element - the actuator of the rotary handle. In alternative forms, sensors 876, 878 configured to move may include Hall sensors, each of which is associated with an engine. Fixed sensor 880 may include a magnet.

In various forms, each of the motors of the surgical instrument 10 may be provided with a corresponding code position sensor, which is connected to a microprocessor circuit on the proximal printed circuit board 820. For example, the swivel control motor 402 may have a functionally connected code position sensor 404 that is connected to the proximal printed circuit board board 820. The starting, or dissecting, motor 530 may have a functionally connected code encoder 534 position, which is associated with the proximal printed circuit board 820. Two the end effector rotator, or the distal rotation motor 560, may have a position encoder 564 that is connected to the proximal printed circuit board 820. The barrel rotation motor, or the proximal rotation motor 610, may have a position encoder 614 functionally connected to it. which is associated with the proximal printed circuit board 820. Coded position sensors can serve to provide microprocessor feedback circuits regarding the speed and direction of rotation and each of the engines. In some forms, in addition to encoder encoders, the rotation drive assembly 570 may use encoder designs to track the rotation of various barrel segments. For example, as can be seen in FIGS. 15, 28 and 29, a first hinge sensor 419 may be mounted on the hinge drive roller 417, configured to be detected by the second hinge sensor 421, which may be, for example, a Hall sensor mounted on a distal printed circuit board 810. The first and second hinge sensors 419, 421 serve as additional feedback means for monitoring the rotational position of the proximal shaft 420 of the hinge. Similarly, on the distal rotation roller 575 of the rotation drive unit 570, a first distal rotation sensor 580 may be mounted, configured to be detected by a second distal rotation sensor 582 mounted on the distal printed circuit board 810. See FIGS. 24, 28 and 29. The first and second distal rotation sensors 580, 582 serve as additional feedback means for monitoring the pivot position of the proximal pivot shaft segment 552. In addition, the roller 632 of the proximal rotation drive unit 620 may have a first proximal rotation sensor 634 configured to be detected by a second proximal rotation sensor 636 mounted on the distal printed circuit board 810. See FIGS. 26, 28 and 29. The first and second sensors 634, 636 of proximal rotation serve as additional feedback means for tracking the rotational position of the proximal segment 602 of the external trunk.

Electrically conductive paths from the end effector to the handle assembly

As described herein, various forms of surgical instrument 10 can be effectively applied with a variety of end effectors or surgical instruments that require or use rotary or other movements in the operations / manipulations of the end effector / instrument. For example, one form of end effector 102 requires rotary control movements to open and close the stop assembly 190, eject surgical staples, and dissect tissue. One shape of the end effector 102 may also be equipped with a distal sensor design for sensing the degree of closure, or closure, achieved by the stop assembly 190 relative to the surgical cassette 130 with brackets. For example, the stop assembly 190 may include a first stop sensor 890 mounted at the distal end of the stop. See FIG. 3. The stop sensor 890 may be, for example, a Hall sensor configured to detect a second cassette bracket sensor 892 (magnet) mounted on the distal end of the surgical cassette 130 with brackets. In at least one form, the first stop sensor 890 may be coupled to at least one end effector conductor 894 mounted on the stop assembly 190, as shown. In one form, for example, the end effector conductor 894 comprises a flat metal strip at the proximal end of which a flexible hook 896 is formed. As used herein, the terms “conductor” or “conductive” refer to an element or component capable of conducting electrical through it current. For example, a conductor may comprise a wire or wires, flexible conductive strips or metal tracks, a multi-conductor flat conductive cable, and the like. As used herein, the term “has electrical contact with” or “is electrically connected to” means that the components are configured to transmit electric current or signals to each other.

In FIGS. 45 and 46, it can be seen that the flexible hook 896 can be oriented to contact the distal end 244 of the blocking pin 242. The blocking pin 242 can be made, for example, of an electrically conductive material and coated with an insulating coating (for example, polymer, etc. .) for electrically isolating the locking pin 242 from the body portion 202 of the connecting element, but may have an open end configured to enter into electrical contact with the hook 896. In addition, the locking spring 246 can also be made and h conductive material (e.g. metal). The blocking spring 246 may be attached (e.g., soldered, etc.) to the blocking pin 242 so that the blocking pin 242 and the blocking spring 246 form an electrically conductive path of the connecting element for conducting electric current through the node 200 of the connecting element. The blocking spring 246 may also be coated with an insulating coating to electrically isolate it from the body 202 of the connecting element. The locking pin 242 and the locking spring 246 may collectively be referred to herein as the “locking pin assembly 249”. The blocking spring 246 may end with the proximal end 247 configured to engage in sliding electrical contact with the proximal conductor assembly 250 mounted on the distal bracket 312 of the articulation 310.

As can be seen in FIG. 8, one form of the proximal conductor assembly 250 may include an electrically conductive wire / wires / track 252 and an annular electrical conductor in the form of, for example, a conductive washer 254. As can be seen in FIG. 46, the conductor 252 is connected to the proximal part 256 conductor, which protrudes through the distal bracket 312 to communicate with the articulated conductor 258 supported by a flexible articulation cover 900 that extends above the articulated articulation 310. In at least one form, articulation cap 900 includes a hollow casing 9 02, which has an open proximal end 904, an open distal end 906, and an articulation receiving channel 908 directed between them. The hollow casing 902 may comprise a plurality of ribs 910 and may be made of a polymer or similar non-conductive material that is capable of stretching in all directions, adapting to movements of the articulated components. However, articulation lid 900 may also be made of other suitable materials and structures, such as flexible micro cutouts and the like. The articulated conductor 258 may comprise, for example, a flat conductive cable, wire, wires, tracks, and the like. As can be further seen in FIG. 46, the proximal end of the articulated conductor 258 is in electrical contact with the trunk conductor 260 on the proximal segment 602 of the outer trunk.

Turning further to FIGS. 47 and 48, in at least one form, the proximal end of the barrel conductor 260 can be oriented to engage in sliding contact with a conductive ring 262 mounted in the handle assembly 20. Such a design may allow electric current to flow between the barrel conductor 260 and the conductive ring 262 when the elongated barrel assembly 30 rotates about the axis of the barrel A – A relative to the handle assembly 20. As can be further seen in FIGS. 47 and 48, the conductor 264 is connected to the conductive ring 262 and extends proximally through the handle housing 20. The conductor 264 may comprise a wire or other suitable conductor and may have a proximal end 266 adapted to flexibly contact the end of the left positioning pin 774. In particular, for example, the proximal end 266 can pass through the wall of the left positioning socket 718 so that when inserted into it of the left position pin 774, the proximal end portion 266 of the conductor 264 came into contact with the left position pin 774. In at least one shape, the left position pin 774 is made of electrical wire its material (metal), so that when the proximal end 266 of the conductor 264 enters into contact with it, electric current can flow between these components. In addition, the connecting conductor 776 serves to electrically connect the left positioning pin 774 with the node of the proximal printed circuit board 820 to facilitate the transmission of electric current between them.

The above construction simplifies the passage of electric current between the end effector or surgical instrument attached to the node 30 of the elongated barrel of the surgical instrument 10 and the components of the control system located in the node 20 of the handle of the surgical instrument 10. This electrically conductive path is maintained while maintaining the ability to rotate the end effector relative to node of the elongated barrel, articulated rotation of the end effector relative to the node of the elongated barrel and rotation end effector and node of the elongated trunk as a whole. Articulation lid 900 may provide an electrical connection path between the elongated barrel and the end effector. Articulation cover 900 may include a flexible electrical strip, wire, track, or the like. to conduct more than one signal in order to provide electrical communication. Therefore, many different sensors or electrical components can be used in the end effector to provide various forms of user feedback. For example, sensors can be used to determine the number of application cycles, to monitor the passage of the cutting tool inside the end effector at start-up, for feedback from the control system for the automatic control of various motors in the handle assembly, etc.

On Fig presents an alternative articulated joint 310 ', made with the possibility of passing through it an electric current or signals. In this form, there is provided a distal conductor 270 of electrical connection extending through the distal bracket 312 ′ and in contact with the distal metal washer 272 integrated therein, as shown. A proximal metal washer 274 may be mounted on the proximal bracket 330 ′ to provide pivotal contact with the distal metal washer 272 when the distal bracket 312 ′ is connected to the proximal bracket 330 ′ in the manner described above. The proximal metal washer 274 may be bent or chamfered to maintain a sliding contact between the washers 272, 274. The proximal conductor 276 of the electrical connection in the form of, for example, a contact strip, wire or track is attached to the washer 274 and is configured to make electrical contact with the barrel conductor 260 on the proximal segment 602 of the external trunk. Therefore, this design allows electric current / signals to pass from the end effector 102 through a blocking pin 242, a blocking spring 242 (i.e., a blocking pin assembly 249), a conductive ring 252, a distal conductor 270 of the electrical connection, washers 272, 274 and the proximal conductor 276 electrical connections to the conductor 260 of the barrel.

Alternative articulation designs

Another form of articulation 1000 is shown in FIG. 50-53. Such articulation 1000 can provide articulated rotation and rotation of an end effector or tool attached thereto around the axis A – A of the elongated barrel to which articulation 1000 is attached. Articulation can also provide such movement of the end effector or surgical instrument while still providing a rotary application control movement to the end effector / tool to activate or manipulate it. The articulated joint 1000 may be connected to an elongated stem assembly, similar in design to the elongated stem assembly 30 described above, or it may be connected to other suitable stem assemblies. An elongated barrel assembly may be coupled to a handle assembly accommodating a plurality of engines. One motor can be used to apply control movements to a flexible element - cable 1010 passing through an elongated barrel assembly and functionally connected to a hinge joint 1000. For example, flexible cable 1010 can be attached to a bobbin or roller assembly functionally attached to a barrel of a corresponding engine or connected with it so that the engine activates the cable 1010. The handle assembly can also include a starting motor, functionally attached to the proximal starting bore 1030 that extends through an elongate barrel assembly and interacts with the articulation 1000 as will be described in more detail below. The handle assembly may also include a motor operably interacting with the end effector or distal rotation barrel 1040, which transmits rotary control movement to the articulation 1000 and which can be used to rotate the end effector or surgical instrument around the axis of the barrel A – A relative to the elongated barrel. The handle assembly may also include a proximal rotation motor used to rotate the elongated stem assembly about the axis of the stem A – A as described above.

In at least one form, articulation 1000 may include a proximal bracket assembly 1020 attached to or formed at the end of an elongated trunk assembly. In the design shown in FIGS. 50–53, the proximal bracket assembly 1020 is formed at the distal end of the elongated trunk assembly 30. As can be seen in the figures, the proximal bracket assembly 1020 has a distal end wall 1022 and a pair of divided arms 1024, 1026 of the bracket. The proximal bracket 1020 is pivotally connected to the distal bracket 1050 by means of a rotating shaft 1051, which serves to form the axis of the hinge B – B. The hinge axis B – B can be substantially perpendicular to the axis of the barrel A – A.

On the distal bracket 1050 there is a nest 1052 formed on it and a pair of shoulders 1054, 1056 of the distal bracket. The rotatable barrel 1051 extends centrally through the shoulders 1024, 1054, 1056 and 1026 of the brackets, as shown in FIG. On the shoulder of the bracket 1054, there may be a cable roll 1058 formed on it, to which the flexible cable 1010 is attached. Consequently, turning the cable 1010 with its corresponding motor causes the distal bracket 1050 to rotate relative to the proximal bracket 1020 around the axis of hinge B – B.

In various forms, the articulated joint 1000 may further include a rotatable mounting sleeve 1060, which is rotatably received inwardly of the socket 1052. On the mounting sleeve 1060 there may be an annular gear 1062 attached thereto, configured to gear with a distal driving gear 1064. A distal rotation pinion gear 1064 is attached to the pinion shaft 1066, rotatably supported in the end wall 1053 of the distal bracket 1050. On the pinion shaft 1066 there is a distal rotation pinion gear 1068 attached thereto. The distal rotation output gear 1068 is gear engaged with the distal rotation gear 1070, which is rotatably mounted on the rotatable barrel 1051 and gears with the distal rotation input gear 1072. The distal rotation input gear 1072 is mounted on the distal rotation barrel 1040. The distal rotation output gear 1068, the distal rotation gear 1070, and the distal rotation input gear 1072 are referred to herein as the “distal rotation gear unit” and are generally designated as element 1069. The distal rotation gear 1070 is “freely rotatable” on the rotating shaft 1051 such so that the rotation of the distal rotation shaft 1040 ultimately leads to the rotation of the distal rotation driving gear 1064 without rotation of the rotating shaft 1051. The rotation of the leading distal rotation gears 1064 within the ring gear 1062 rotate the mounting sleeve 1060 around the axis of the barrel A – A. In various forms, the end effector or surgical instrument may be directly connected to the mounting sleeve 1060 so that rotation of the mounting sleeve 1060 causes the end effector / tool to rotate. For example, the mounting sleeve 1060 may be formed with a socket 1061 of the sleeve, the size of which allows you to accept with the possibility of holding in it part of the end effector / tool. In alternative designs, the mounting sleeve 1060 may be part of the end effector, or the end effector may be attached to the mounting sleeve 1060 by other mounting structures. For example, the mounting sleeve 1060 may be attached to the connector assembly of the type and design described above, and then the end effector / tool may be detachably attached to the connector assembly.

The articulated joint 1000 can also facilitate the transfer of rotary control movement through the joint 1000 to the attached end effector / tool. As can be seen in FIGS. 52 and 53, the distal end of the proximal trigger shaft 1030 is rotatably supported by the distal end wall 1022 of the proximal bracket assembly 1020, and an input trigger gear 1080 is attached to it. The input trigger gear 1080 is in gear engagement with the trigger gear 1082, mounted on a rotating barrel 1051. The gear starting gear 1082 is in gearing with the output gear 1084 mounted on the starting output shaft 1090 installed in the end 1053 Tenke distal bracket 1050. The trigger output shaft 1090 can be configured to drive engagement with the respective drive element or the barrel in the end effector / tool. For example, the distal end 1092 of the launching output shaft 1090 may be given a hexagonal shape so that it can fit into the corresponding hexagonal socket formed in the mounting flange 1094, which may be adapted to attach an end effector / instrument to the drive shaft. The trigger input gear 1080, the trigger gear 1082, and the trigger output gear 1084 are referred to herein as the “trigger barrel gear block”, essentially designated as element 1081. The trigger gear 1082 is “freely rotatable” on the rotating barrel 1051 such that it rotates the proximal trigger shaft 1030 ultimately leads to the rotation of the trigger output barrel 1090 without rotating the rotational barrel 1051. The distal rotation gear block 1069 and the trigger barrel gear block 1081 vlyayutsya substantially "nested" into each other, making it easy to jointly pivoting the end effector / tool assembly relative to the elongated stem, while ensuring transmission of rotary movements in the control and the end effector while allowing the end effector rotation around the barrel axis A-A.

FIGS. 54-60 show another alternative design of the articulated joint 1100. In at least one form, the articulated joint 1100 may include a proximal bracket 1110, a central bracket 1130 and a distal bracket 1150. The articulated joint 1100 may be capable of pivotally attached to it an end effector or surgical instrument around two different hinge axes, B – B and C – C, which are essentially perpendicular to each other, as well as the axis of the barrel A – A of the node 30 ″ of the elongated barrel, to which articulation attached. For example, the articulation 1100 can be configured so that the central bracket 1130 can rotate around the first axis of the B-B hinge relative to the first bracket 1110, and the distal bracket 1150 can selectively rotate around the second axis of the C-C hinge relative to the central bracket 1130. The articulation 1100 can also provide such a rotation of the end effector or surgical instrument and at the same time provide the application of a rotary control movement to the end effector / instrument to activate it or manipulating them.

The articulated joint 1100 may be connected to an elongated stem assembly, similar in design to the elongated stem assembly 30 described above, or it may be connected to other suitable stem assemblies. In one design, the proximal bracket 1110 is integrally formed with the outer tube of the elongated stem assembly 30 ″. As can be seen in FIGS. 54-60, the proximal bracket 1110 has an upper arm 1112 of the proximal bracket and a lower shoulder 1114 of the proximal bracket. The central bracket 1130 also has an upper arm 1132 of the central bracket and a lower arm 1134 of the central bracket. The upper arm of the proximal staple is pivotally connected to the upper arm 1132 of the central staple by a proximal articulated pin 1116. The proximal articulated pin 1116 also pivotally connects the lower arm 1114 of the proximal staple to the lower arm 1134 of the central staple. The proximal hinge pin 1116 serves to form the first axis of the hinge B – B.

Also, in at least one design, the central bracket 1130 has a right shoulder 1136 of the central bracket and a left shoulder 1138 of the central bracket. The distal bracket 1150 also has a right shoulder 1152 of the distal bracket and a left shoulder 1154 of the distal bracket. The right shoulder 1136 of the central bracket is pivotally connected to the right shoulder 1152 of the distal bracket using a distal pivot pin 1156. The left shoulder 1138 of the central bracket is pivotally connected to the left shoulder 1154 of the distal bracket using the distal pivot pin 1156. The distal pivot pin 1156 forms the second C axis. In one design, the distal hinge pin 1156 is rotatably attached to the right and left shoulders 1152, 1154 of the distal bracket so that the distal hinge pin 1156 rotates with the distal bracket 1150 relative to the central bracket 1130.

An elongated barrel assembly 30 ″ may be coupled to a handle assembly accommodating multiple engines. A single motor can be used to apply control movements to the first flexible member — cable 1170 passing through the elongated barrel assembly 30 ″ and operably connected to articulated joint 1100. For example, the first flexible cable 1170 may be attached to a first bobbin or roller assembly operably attached or associated with the barrel of the corresponding engine so that the engine activates the first cable 1170.

In one design, the first flexible cable 1170 can be used to selectively rotate the central bracket 1130 relative to the proximal bracket 1110 about the first axis of the hinge B – B. In such a design, for example, the first cable 1170 runs around the first roller, or bobbin, 1180, which is attached to the central bracket 1130. For example, the first roller 1180 is attached to the upper arm 1132 of the central bracket and pushed onto the proximal pivot pin 1116. Activation the first cable 1170 will cause the central bracket 1130 to rotate relative to the proximal bracket 1110 around the first axis of the hinge B – B.

In the articulated joint 1100, a second flexible cable 1190 can also be used, which is put on a bobbin or roller assembly that is functionally attached to or connected to the barrel of the corresponding engine inside the handle assembly so that the engine activates the second cable 1190. The second cable 1190 can be used for selective rotation the distal bracket 1150 relative to the central bracket 1130 around the second axis of the C – C hinge. In such a design, for example, a second cable 1190 runs around a second roller, or bobbin, 1158, which is attached without turning to the distal hinge pin 1156. Activating the second cable 1190 will cause the distal hinge pin 1156 and the distal bracket 1150 attached to it to rotate around the second axis of the hinge C – C relative to central bracket 1130.

The articulated joint 1100 can also provide a rotational control movement through the joint 1100 to the attached end effector / tool. The proximal rotatable trigger barrel 1200 may extend through the 30 "extension of the elongated barrel and may be operatively connected to the trigger motor in the handle assembly to apply a rotary trigger movement to it. In one design, the proximal trigger barrel 1200 may be hollow so that a second cable can pass through it 1190. The proximal trigger shaft 1200 can functionally interact with the proximal trigger gear block 1210, which is functionally supported in the articulated joint 1100. For example, in one In a design embodiment, the first starting gear block 1210 may include a proximal input starting gear 1212 attached to the proximal starting shaft 1200. The proximal input starting gear 1212 is oriented for gear engagement with the proximal starting transmission gear 1214 mounted on the proximal rotating shaft 1116 with free rotation on it The proximal starting transmission gear 1212 is oriented for gear engagement with the proximal starting output gear 1216, connected ennoy barrel with a central trigger 1218 is extending rotatably through the central wall 1131 of the central bracket 1130.

The articulated joint 1100 may also include a distal starting gear block 1220, interacting with the proximal starting gear block 1210 for transmitting a rotary starting or control motion through the articulated joint 1100. The distal starting gear block 1220 may include a distal inlet starting gear 1222 mounted on the central starting shaft 1216 The distal input starting gear 1222 is in gear engagement with the distal starting transmission gear 1224, which is installed with the possibility Rotating at a distal pivot pin 1156 so that it can rotate freely thereon. The distal trigger gear 1224 is in gear engagement with the distal trigger output gear 1226, which is rotatably supported within the distal bracket 1150. The distal output trigger gear 1226 may be gear engaged with a corresponding drive member or barrel in the end effector / tool.

Another form of articulation 1300 shown in FIG.61-66. Such an articulation 1300 can articulate and rotate an end effector or tool attached thereto around the axis A – A of the elongated barrel to which the articulation 1300 is attached. The articulation can also provide such movement of the end effector or surgical instrument while still providing a rotary application control movement to the end effector / tool to activate or manipulate it. The articulated joint 1300 may be connected to an elongated stem assembly, similar in design to the elongated stem assembly 30 described above, or it may be connected to other suitable stem assemblies. An elongated barrel assembly may be coupled to a handle assembly accommodating a plurality of engines. A single motor can be used to apply control movements to a flexible cable 1310 passing through an elongated barrel assembly and operatively connected to a pivot joint 1300. For example, a flexible cable 1310 may be attached to a bobbin or roller assembly operably attached to or connected to the trunk of a corresponding engine in this way so that the engine activates the cable 1310. The handle assembly may also include a trigger motor, functionally attached to the proximal trigger barrel 1330, to which passes through an elongated stem assembly and interacts with articulated joint 1300, as will be described in more detail below. The handle assembly may also include an engine operably interacting with the distal flexible barrel 1340, which transmits rotary control movement to the articulation 1300 and which can be used to rotate the end effector or surgical instrument around the axis of the barrel A – A relative to the elongated barrel. The handle assembly may also include a proximal rotation motor used to rotate the elongated stem assembly about the axis of the stem A – A as described above.

In at least one form, articulation 1300 may include a proximal staple assembly 1320 attached to or formed at the end of an elongated stem assembly. In the construction shown in FIGS. 61–66, the proximal bracket assembly 1320 is formed at the distal end of the outer tube forming part of the elongated trunk assembly 30. As can be seen in the figures, the proximal bracket assembly 1320 has a distal end wall 1322 and a pair of divided arms Staples 1324, 1326. The proximal bracket 1320 is rotatably connected to the distal bracket 1350 via the upper rotatable trunk 1351 and the lower rotatable trunk 1353, which serve to form the axis of the B – B hinge. perpendicular to the axis of the trunk A – A.

On the distal bracket 1350 there is a nest 1352 formed on it, and a pair of shoulders 1354, 1356 of the distal bracket. The upper rotatable barrel 1351 extends centrally through the arms 1324 and 1354 of the bracket. The lower rotatable barrel 1353 extends through the brackets 1356 and 1026, as shown in FIG. 64. On the shoulder 1356 of the bracket there is additionally a cable roller 1358 formed on it or attached to it. A flexible cable 1310 is attached to the cable roll 1358 so that activation of the cable 1310 pivots the distal bracket 1350 around the axis of the hinge B – B relative to the proximal bracket 1320.

In various forms, the articulated joint 1300 may also include a rotatable mounting sleeve 1360, which is rotatably received inwardly of the socket 1052. On the mounting sleeve 1060 there may be a driven gear 1362 attached to it which is gear engaged with a distal rotation driving gear 1364. The distal rotation driving gear 1364 is attached to the driving gear shaft 1366 rotatably supported in the end wall 1355 of the distal bracket 1350. In at least one embodiment, the distal rotation driving gear 1364 is driven by a distal rotation flexible shaft 1340 that is directed through a proximal support barrel 1342 directed through an elongated barrel assembly 30 ". In various forms, an end effector or surgical instrument may be directly connected to the mounting sleeve 1360 such that turning the mounting sleeve 1360 causes the end effector / tool to rotate, for example, mounting sleeve 1360 can be formed with a sleeve socket 1361 that is sized to accept part of the end effector / tool that can be held therein. 1360 may be an integral part of the end effector, or the end effector may be attached to the mounting sleeve 1360 by other mounting structures. For example, the mounting sleeve 1360 may be attached to the connector assembly of the type and design described above, and then the end effector / tool may be detachably attached to the connector assembly.

The articulated joint 1300 can also facilitate the transfer of rotary control movement through the joint 1300 to the attached end effector / tool. As can be seen in FIGS. 63 and 64, the distal end of the proximal trigger shaft 1330 is rotatably supported by the distal end wall 1322 of the proximal bracket assembly 1320, and a trigger input gear 1380 is attached to it. The input trigger gear 1380 is in gear engagement with the trigger gear 1382, mounted on a lower rotatable barrel 1353. The gear start gear 1382 is in gear engagement with the output gear 1384 mounted on the trigger output shaft 1390, which runs through Res distal end wall 1355 and the bracket 1350 end wall 1370 of the sleeve 1360. The trigger circuit output shaft 1390 can be configured to drive engagement with the respective drive element or the barrel in the end effector / tool. For example, the distal end 1392 of the launch output shaft 1390 may be given a hexagonal shape so that it can fit into the corresponding hex socket formed in the mounting flange 1394, which may be adapted to attach an end effector / tool to the drive shaft. The trigger input gear 1380, the trigger gear 1382, and the trigger output gear 1384 are referred to herein as the trigger barrel gear unit, essentially designated as element 1381. The trigger gear 1382 is “freely rotatable” on the lower rotatable barrel 1353 such that the proximal rotation the launching barrel 1330 ultimately leads to the rotation of the launching output barrel 1390 without turning the lower rotating barrel 1353. The gear block 1369 distal rotation and the gear block 1381 start th trunk facilitate rotation of the end effector / tool assembly relative to the elongated stem, while ensuring transmission of rotary movements in the control and the end effector while allowing the end effector rotation around the barrel axis A-A.

Alternative engine mounts

67 to 69 show an alternative motor mounting assembly, essentially designated as element 1750. The motor mounting assembly 1750 may be supported within segments 23 and 24 of the handle housing that are connected together by latches, screws, and the like. and serve to form part 26 of the pistol grip of the handle assembly 20. In at least one form, the engine mounting assembly 1750 may comprise an engine housing 1752 that is removably supported within segments 23 and 24 of the handle housing. In at least one form, for example, the engine housing 1752 comprises an engine septum assembly 1756 attached thereto. The engine casing 1752 is designed to support engines 402, 530, 560 and 610. Each engine has its own board attached to it with a 1780 control circuit designed to control the operation of each engine in various ways described herein.

In some forms, the working part 100 may include an electrosurgical end effector that uses electricity to act on the tissue. Examples of electrosurgical end effectors and related instruments are described in US Patent Application No. 13 / 536,393, entitled "Branch of Surgical End Effector and Electrode Configuration", Patent Attorney No. END7137USNP / 120141, and in US Patent Application No. 13 / 536,417, entitled “Electrode Connections for Surgical Instruments with Rotary Drive”, Patent Attorney File No. END7149USNP / 120153, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. FIGS. 70–73 show an example of an end effector 3156 forming an alternative working part 100. An end effector 3156 can be configured to capture and dissect tissue and simultaneously weld captured tissue using a controlled application of energy (eg, radio frequency (RF) energy). The first jaw 3160A and the second jaw 3160B can be closed, thereby gripping or engaging the fabric along a longitudinal axis 3194 formed by an axially movable member 3182. The first jaw 3160A and the second jaw 3160B can also exert a compressive effect on the tissue.

FIG. 70 is a perspective view of some forms of electrosurgical end effector 3156 for use with a surgical instrument 10. FIG. 70 is an end effector 3156 with open jaws 3160A, 3160B. On Fig presents a perspective view of some forms of the end effector 3156 with closed branches 3160A, 3160B. As noted above, end effector 3156 may comprise an upper first jaw 3160A and a lower second jaw 3160B, which may be straight or curved. Each of the first jaw 3160A and the second jaw 3160B may comprise an elongated groove or channel 3162A and 3162B (FIG. 70), respectively, located externally along their respective middle parts. In addition, each of the first jaw 3160A and the second jaw 3160B may have tissue gripping elements, such as teeth 3198 located on the inside of the first jaw 3160A and the second jaw 3160B. The first jaw 3160A may comprise a casing 3200A of an upper first jaw with an outwardly facing upper first surface 3202A and an energy supplying upper first surface 3204A. The second jaw 3160B may include a casing 3200B of the lower second jaw with the outwardly facing lower second surface 3202B and supplying energy to the lower second surface 3204B. The first power supply surface 3204A and the second power supply surface 3204B can both U-shape around the distal end of the end effector 3156. It should be understood that the end effector 3156 can be made with the possibility of rotation and articulation in the same way as described herein in relation to the end effector 102.

FIG. 72 shows one form of an element 3182 configured to axially move an end effector 3156. An element 3182 configured to axially move is driven by a threaded drive shaft 3151 (FIG. 70). The proximal end of the threaded drive shaft 3151 can be configured to be able to connect without turning with the output socket 238 and thus receive the pivoting movement provided by the motor 530. The axially movable element 3182 may include a threaded nut 3153 for receiving the threaded drive shaft 3151 such so that the rotation of the threaded drive shaft 3151 causes the element 3182, configured to move axially, translationally move distally and proximal along about si 3194 (FIG. 72). Axially movable element 3182 may comprise one or more parts, but in any case, it may be movable or translationally relative to elongated barrel 158 and / or branches 3160A, 3160B. In addition, in at least some forms, the axially displaceable element 3182 may be made of precipitation hardening stainless steel 17-4. The distal end of the axially displaceable member 3182 may include an I-beam profile with flanges that is slidable within channels 3162A and 3162B in jaws 3160A and 3160B. Axially movable element 3182 can slide inside channels 3162A, 3162B, opening and closing the first jaw 3160A and the second jaw 3160B. The distal end of the axially displaceable member 3182 may also include an upper flange, or a C-shaped portion 3182A, and a lower flange, or a C-shaped portion 3182B. Flanges 3182A and 3182B respectively form inner curved surfaces 3206A and 3206B for engaging outwardly facing surfaces of the first jaw 3160A and the second jaw 3160B. Opening and closing the jaws 3160A and 3160B can exert a very strong compressive force on the fabric due to the use of cam mechanisms, which can include an I-beam with the ability to move the axially movable element 3182 and the outwardly facing surfaces 3208A, 3208B of the jaws 3160A, 3160B.

More specifically, referring to FIGS. 70–72, the inner curved surfaces 3206A and 3206B of the distal end of the axially movable member 3182 can collectively be movably engaged with the first outwardly facing surface 3208A and the second outwardly facing surface 3208B of the first jaws 3160A and second jaws 3160B, respectively. The channel 3162A inside the first jaw 3160A and the channel 3162B inside the second jaw 3160B can be made in shape and size with the ability to provide movement of the element 3182, configured to move axially, which may contain the cutting fabric element 3210, for example, containing a sharp distal edge. FIG. 71, for example, shows the distal end of an element 3182 configured to move axially advanced at least partially through channels 3162A and 3162B (FIG. 70). The advancement of the axially displaceable element 3182 may close the end effector 3156 in the open configuration shown in FIG. 70. In the closed position shown in FIG. 71, the upper first jaw 3160A and the lower second jaw 3160B form a gap or distance D between the first power supply surface 3204A and the second power supply surface 3204B of the first jaw 3160A and the second jaw 3160B, respectively. In various forms, the distance D can be, for example, from about 0.0005 inches to about 0.040 inches, and in some forms, for example, from about 0.001 inches to about 0.010 inches. In addition, the edges of the first energy supplying surface 3204A and the second energy supplying surface 3204B can be rounded to prevent tissue dissection.

FIG. 73 is a cross-sectional view of some forms of end effector 3156. The surface 3204B that engages or makes contact with the fabric of the lower jaw 3160B is configured to supply energy to the fabric, at least in part, through a conductive matrix, such as a casing with variable resistance, having a positive temperature coefficient (PTC). At least one of the upper and lower jaws 3160A, 3160B may have at least one electrode 3212 configured to supply energy from the generator 3164 to the captured tissue. Similar to the conductive resistive matrix (i.e., PTC material), or in some forms, the surface may, for example, be a conductive electrode or an insulating layer, may be located on the surface 3204A of the upper jaw 3160A that engages or contacts with the tissue. In an alternate embodiment, any energy-supplying components described in US Pat. No. 6,773,409, filed October 22, 2001, entitled "ELECTROSURGICAL BRANCH STRUCTURE FOR CONTROLLED ENERGY SUPPLY", the description of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, may be located on the engaging surfaces of the jaws.

Each of the first power supply surface 3204A and the second power supply surface 3204B may be in electrical communication with the generator 3164. The generator 3164 is connected to the end effector 3156 by suitable transmission means, such as conductors 3172, 3174. In some forms, the generator 3164 is connected to the controller, such as, for example, control unit 3168. In various forms, the control unit 3168 may be integral with the generator 3164, or may be a module or device with a separate circuit, electrically connected to the generator 3164 (this option is shown by a dotted line). The generator 3164 may be made in the form of an external unit of equipment and / or may be made integral with the surgical instrument 10.

The first energy-supplying surface 3204A and the second energy-supplying surface 3204B may be configured to come into contact with the tissue and supply electrical energy to the captured tissue, providing sealing or welding of the tissue. The control unit 3168 controls the electrical energy supplied by the electric generator 3164, which in turn supplies energy for electrosurgery to the first power supply surface 3204A and the second power supply surface 3204B. The control unit 3168 may adjust the power generated by the generator 3164 during the activation process.

As indicated above, the energy for electrosurgery supplied by the electric generator 3164 and regulated or otherwise controlled by the control unit 3168 may be radio frequency (RF) energy or other suitable forms of electrical energy. In addition, the opposing first and second energy-supplying surfaces 3204A and 3204B may have variable resistance housings with a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) that are in electrical communication with the generator 3164 and the control unit 3168. Additional details regarding electrosurgical end effectors, jaw closure mechanisms, and energy-supplying electrosurgical surfaces are described in the following US patents and published US patent applications No. 7087054; 7,083,619; 7,070,597; 7,041,102; 7011657; 6,929,644; 6,926,716; 6,913,579; 6905497; 6802843; 6770072; 6,561,777; 6,533,784; 6,500,176; and US Published Patent Applications Serial Nos. 2010/0036370 and 2009/0076506, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and form part of this specification.

There is a suitable 3164 generator, such as the GEN11 model, manufactured by Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio. In addition, in some forms, the 3164 generator may be implemented as an electrosurgical unit (ESU) capable of delivering sufficient power to perform bipolar electrosurgery using radio frequency (RF) energy. In some forms, the ESU may be an ERBE ICC 350 bipolar device supplied by ERBE USA, Inc., Marietta, Georgia. In some forms, for example, when used in bipolar electrosurgery, it is possible to use a surgical instrument having an active electrode and a return electrode, wherein the active and return electrodes can be located near, adjacent and / or in electrical communication with the treated tissue so that the current can flow from the active electrode through the positive temperature coefficient housing (PTC) and to the return electrode through the fabric. Therefore, in various forms, the surgical instrument 10, which uses the end effector 3156, creates a delivery path and a return path, and the tissue captured for processing connects or closes the circuit. In some forms, the generator 3164 may be a unipolar ESU RF unit, and the surgical instrument 10 may comprise a monopolar end effector in which one or more active electrodes are embedded. In such a system, a return plate can be used for generator 3164 in close contact with the patient’s body at a location away from the surgical field and / or another suitable return path. The back plate may be connected to the generator 3164 via cable.

During operation of the electrosurgical instrument 150, the user essentially grabs the tissue, supplies energy to the captured tissue to form a fusion or seal, and then pushes the cutting tissue member 3210 at the distal end of the axial movable member 3182 through the captured tissue. In accordance with various forms, the translational movement of the axially movable axial element 3182 may be carried out at a predetermined pace or with another control so that the movement of the axially movable element 3182 is carried out at a suitable speed. When controlling the speed of movement, it is more likely that the captured tissue will be sealed in a proper and functional manner before being dissected by the cutting member 3210.

In some forms, the working part 100 may include an ultrasonic end effector using harmonic or ultrasonic energy to process the tissue. FIG. 74 shows one form of an ultrasonic end effector 3026 for use with a surgical instrument 10. The end effector assembly 3026 includes a clamp arm assembly 3064 and a scalpel 3066 to form clamp clamp jaws. The scalpel 3066 can be activated by ultrasound in an acoustic connection with an ultrasonic transducer 3016 located inside the end effector 3026. Examples of small transducers and end effectors containing transducers are presented in the simultaneously filed US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 538,601, entitled "Ultrasound Surgical Instruments with Distal Transducers" and published US patent application No. 2009/0036912. The transducer 3016 may have an acoustic connection (e.g., direct or indirect mechanical connection) to the scalpel 3066 via a waveguide 3078.

The tubular activating member 3058 can move the clamping lever assembly 3064 to the open position in a direction 3062A in which the clamping lever assembly 3064 and the scalpel 3066 are spatially relative to each other, as well as to the clamped or closed position in a direction 3062B in which the clamping assembly 3064 the lever and scalpel 3066 interact to capture tissue located between them. The distal end of the tubular reciprocating activating element 3058 is mechanically engaged with the end effector assembly 3026. In the form shown, the distal end of the tubular reciprocating activating member 3058 is mechanically engaged with the clamp arm assembly 3064, which is pivotally rotatable about the pivot point 3070 to open and close the clamp arm assembly 3064. For example, in the form shown, the clamping lever assembly 3064 is movable from an open position to a closed position in a direction 3062B around a pivot point 3070 when the tubular reciprocating activating member 3058 is pulled proximally. The clamping lever assembly 3064 is configured to move from a closed position to an open position in a direction 3062A with respect to a pivot point 3070 when the tubular reciprocating activating element 3058 progressively moves distally (FIG. 75).

The tubular activating element 3058 can progressively move proximally and distally due to the rotation of the threaded drive shaft 3001. The proximal end of the threaded drive shaft 3001 can be configured to be connected without rotation to the output socket 238 and, thus, to receive the rotational movement provided by the motor 530. The tubular activating element 3058 may include a threaded nut 3059 for receiving a threaded drive shaft 3001 so that rotation of the threaded drive shaft 3001 leads to translational movement of the tubular activating element 3058 distally and proximal. FIGS. 76–77 show an additional view of one form of an element 3058, axially movable, and a tubular nut 3059. In some forms, the tubular activating element 3058 forms a cavity 3003. The waveguide 3078 and / or the scalpel portion 3066 can pass through the cavity 3003, as shown in FIG.

In one example, the distal end of the ultrasound transmitting waveguide 3078 can be connected to the proximal end of the scalpel 3066 by connecting to an internal thread, preferably at or near the antinode of the wave. It is contemplated that the scalpel 3066 can be attached to the ultrasound transmitting waveguide 3078 by any suitable means, such as a weld or the like. Although the scalpel 3066 can be disconnected from the ultrasound transmitting waveguide 3078, it is also contemplated that a single element end effector (e.g., scalpel 3066) and the ultrasound transmitting waveguide 3078 can be formed as a single part.

The ultrasonic transducer 3016, known as the “Langevin package”, essentially oscillates in response to an electrical signal generated by the generator 3005 (FIG. 74). For example, transducer 3016 may comprise a plurality of piezoelectric elements or other elements that convert the electrical signal from generator 3005 into mechanical energy, resulting in a predominantly standing acoustic wave of longitudinal vibrational motion of ultrasonic transducer 3016 and scalpel 3066 of a portion of the end effector 3026 with ultrasonic frequencies. Ultrasonic transducer 3016 may have (but not necessarily) a length equal to an integer times half the wavelength of the system (nλ / 2; where n is any positive integer; for example, n = 1, 2, 3 ...). A suitable range of vibration frequencies for transducer 3016 and scalpel 3066 may be approximately 20 Hz to 32 kHz, and a well-suitable range of vibration frequencies may be approximately 30 Hz to 10 kHz. For example, a suitable operating vibration frequency may be approximately 55.5 kHz.

The generator 3005 may be any suitable type of generator located inside or outside the surgical instrument 10. There is a suitable generator, such as the GEN11 model manufactured by Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio. When the transducer 3016 is connected to the power supply, a standing wave of vibrational motion is generated by means of a waveguide 3078 and a scalpel 3066. The end effector 3026 is configured to operate in resonance so as to create an acoustic standing wave with a given amplitude. The amplitude of the vibrational motion at any point of the transducer 3016, the waveguide 3078 and the scalpel 3066 depends on the location within these components of the point at which the vibrational motion is measured. The minimum or standing through a zero standing wave of vibrational motion is essentially called a node (i.e., the place where the movement is minimal), and the local absolute maximum, or the peak value of the standing wave, is essentially called the antinode (i.e., the place where local movement as much as possible). The distance between the antinode and the node closest to it is one quarter of the wavelength (λ / 4).

In one embodiment, the scalpel 3066 may have a length substantially equal to the product of an integer and half the wavelength of the system (nλ / 2). The distal end of the scalpel 3066 can be located near the antinode, to ensure maximum longitudinal movement of the distal end. When the transducer assembly is powered, the distal end of the blade 3066 may be movable in the range of, for example, from about 10 to 500 microns of double amplitude, and preferably in the range of from about 30 to 64 microns at a given vibration frequency, for example, 55 kHz .

In one embodiment, the scalpel 3066 can be connected to the ultrasound transmitting waveguide 3078. As shown, the scalpel 3066 and the ultrasound transmitting waveguide 3078 are formed as a unitary structure from a material suitable for transmitting ultrasonic energy. Examples of such materials include Ti6Al4V (titanium alloy comprising aluminum and vanadium), aluminum, stainless steel or other suitable materials. In an alternative embodiment, the scalpel 3066 may be detached (and have a different composition) from the ultrasound transmitting waveguide 3078 and may be attached, for example, by rivet, welding, glue, quick coupler or other suitable known methods. The length of the ultrasound transmitting waveguide 3078 may, for example, be substantially equal to the product of an integer and half the wavelength (nλ / 2). The ultrasound transmitting waveguide 3078 may preferably be made of a solid core core of a material suitable for efficiently transmitting ultrasonic energy, for example, such as the titanium alloy described above (i.e., Ti6Al4V), or any suitable aluminum alloy or other alloys.

In some forms, surgical instrument 10 can also be used with other staple-type end effectors. For example, FIG. 78 shows one form of a linear staple-stapled end effector 3500 suitable for use with a surgical instrument 10. The end effector 3500 includes an emphasis portion 3502 and a staple channel 3514 configured to translate. The channel 3514 for brackets, made with the possibility of translational movement, can move in the distal and proximal directions indicated by arrow 3516. A threaded drive barrel 3506 can be connected to the socket 238 output, for example, as shown above in this document, in order to receive a rotary movement, created by the engine 530. The threaded drive shaft 3506 can be connected to a threaded nut 3508 fixedly connected to the channel 3514 for brackets so that the rotation of the threaded drive shaft 3506 leads to the recipient moving the channel 3514 for the brackets in the directions indicated by the arrow 3516. The nut 3508 can also be connected to the ejector 3510, which in turn can contact the cartridge 3512 with brackets. As the distal translational movement, the ejector 3510 can push the staples from the cassette 3512 with brackets to the stop 3502, thereby pushing the staples through the fabric located between the channel 3514 for staples and the stop 3502.

In some forms, a surgical instrument may also be used with a circular staple end effector. FIG. 79 shows one form of a circular cross-linking end effector 3520 suitable for use with a surgical instrument 10. The end effector 3520 comprises an abutment 3522 and a portion 3524 with brackets. A threaded drive shaft 3530 extends from a stop 3522 through a portion 3524 with brackets. The threaded drive shaft 3530 may be connected to the output socket 238, for example, as shown hereinabove, in order to receive the pivoting movement generated by the motor 530. The threaded nut 3532 can be connected to the bracket part 3524 so that the threaded drive barrel is rotated. 3530 alternately translates the bracket part 3524 distally and proximal as indicated by arrow 3534. The threaded barrel can also be connected to the ejector 3528 so that the distal movement of the bracket part 3524 pushes ytalkivatel 3528 distally in the staple cartridge 3526 to push the staples out of the cartridge 3526 into the tissue disposed between the anvil 3522 and a part 3524 with staples. In some embodiments, the end effector 3520 may also include a scalpel or cutting tool 3535 for cutting tissue before stitching.

It should be understood that, along with various terminal effectors, other working parts in the surgical instrument 10 can be interchangeable. For example, some forms of surgical instrument 10 use different power cords. FIG. A presents several examples of power cords 3540, 3542, 3544 for use with a surgical instrument. Each of the power cords 3540, 3542, 3544 contains a socket 3546 for connection with a surgical instrument 10. Power cords 3540, 3542, 3544 can be used to connect the surgical instrument 10 to various power sources. For example, the 3540 and 3542 power cords include jacks 3550, 3552 for connecting to generators, such as a GEN11 model generator from Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio. Such a generator may provide power to the instrument 10 and / or may provide a signal for driving an electrosurgical and / or ultrasonic end effector. The power cord 3544 contains a plug 3548, which can be inserted into a wall outlet to provide power to the tool 10 (for example, in the absence of a battery 802).

In some forms, the surgical instrument may also contain interchangeable working parts, including various trunks. FIG. 81 shows several examples of shafts 3554, 3556, 3558 suitable for use with a surgical tool 10. Each shank 3554, 3556, 3558 contains a detachable drive chuck 700 ', 700' ', 700' '' similar to a detachable drive chuck 700 which can be received in the tool 10, as described above in this document. Each barrel 3554, 3556, 3558 also includes a connector 3557 for receiving the end effector, similar to the connector 200 described above. In some embodiments, the different trunks are configured to receive different types of end effectors at the node 3557 of the connecting element. Each of the shafts 3554, 3556, 3558 may contain different characteristics, including, for example, a different length, the presence or absence of a hinge, a passive or active hinge, a different amount of hinge rotation, different diameters, different curvature, etc. For example, barrel 3554 forms a curve 3559 offset from the central axis of the barrel. The barrel 3558 forms an articulated joint 3560, which can be pivotally rotated in the same way as described above with respect to the articulated joint 310.

It should be understood that different types of working parts 100 (for example, power cords, trunks, end effectors, etc.) require different motors and other components of the surgical instrument 10, which operate in different ways. For example, power-end tracers, such as the electrosurgical traction effector 3156 and ultrasonic traction effector 3026, require a power supply signal to power the electrodes and / or ultrasonic scalpels. To activate different end effectors, different movements of different engines 402, 560, 530, 610 may also be required, including, for example, activating different engines, creating different torques, etc. In various forms, the working parts 100 may provide the surgical instrument 10 with control parameters.

On Fig presents a block diagram of a node 20 of the handle of a surgical instrument 10 with the designation of various control elements. The control elements shown in FIG. 82 are configured to receive control parameters from various operating parts and control the surgical instrument 10 based on the received control parameters, as well as on the basis of one or more input control signals received from a doctor (for example, by means of a control joystick 840 or other suitable activating device). The control elements may include a control circuit 3702 for controlling the surgical instrument 10. In various forms, the control circuit 3702 may execute a control algorithm for operating the surgical instrument 10, including all installed operating parts. In some forms, the control circuit 3702 is implemented on the proximal printed circuit board 820 described above in this document. The control circuit 3702 contains a microprocessor 3706 and associated memory and / or data storage device 3708. In some forms, the control circuit 3702 may also include a generator circuit 3704 for supplying power to the ultrasound and / or electrosurgical device. The 3704 generator circuit may act as an independent component or in combination with an external generator.

82 also shows engines 3714, which may correspond to engines 402, 560, 530, 610 described above. Battery 3713 may correspond to battery 802 described above herein. An input to control circuit 3702 may come from control joystick 840 or other suitable activating device. The various surgical working parts 100 described herein can be connected to the handle 20 through the respective sockets 3710, 3712. The socket 3712 may receive a barrel, such as trunks 3554, 3556, 3558. For example, the socket 3712 may receive a barrel in the same way as a handle 20 receives a detachable drive cartridge 700 as described above herein. Socket 3710 may be configured to receive a cord connector, such as connector 3546, described hereinabove.

The control circuit 3702 in combination with various other control elements such as sockets 3710, 3712 can receive control parameters from various installed operating parts. The control parameters may contain, for example, data describing the properties of the working parts, data describing the algorithms of the tool 10 with installed working parts, etc. Sockets 3710, 3712 can be mechanically or via communication lines connected to various working parts. For example, various operating parts may include circuits 3720 for storing control parameters. Such circuits 3720 are shown connected to power cords 3540, 3542, 3544 in FIG. 80 and connected to shafts 3554, 3556 3558 in FIG. 81. FIG. 83 also shows one form of various working parts 3730, 3732, 3734, 3736, 3738 of the end effector, containing circuits 3720 described herein. Circuits 3720 may include one or more data storage components for storing control parameters for transmission to control circuit 3702. Such data storage components may include any suitable type of memory device (eg, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), digital register, any other memory type, etc.). Memory devices may also contain coils or other hardware components configured to modulate predetermined control parameters, for example, in response to a request for radio frequency identification (RFID) signal. In some forms, the circuits 3720 form a direct wired connection with the control circuit 3702, for example, through the corresponding sockets 3710, 3712. Accordingly, the control circuit 3702 can directly communicate with various circuits 3720 and take control parameters.

In some forms, 3720 circuits contain passive or active RFID devices. The handle 20 may comprise one or more antennas 3716, 3718, which may be located in or adjacent to respective sockets 3710, 3712. Using antennas 3716, 3718, the control circuit 3702 can interrogate the circuits 3720 on the installed operating parts and obtain control parameters. In some forms, control circuitry 3702 is programmed to send requests to various operating parts at startup and / or indicating that the operating part has been installed and / or disconnected. In response, the control circuit 3702 may receive a reflection signal from the RFID device. The reflection signal may indicate important control parameters. In some forms, circuits 3720 may include active RFID devices that transmit data describing their associated operating parts, for example, after installation.

As shown in FIG. 81, some barrel shapes may include antennas 3719 on the distal parts. Antennas 3719 can be connected to control circuitry 3702 via conductors (not shown) routed through respective trunks, allowing control circuitry 3702 to interrogate RFID 3720 device circuits at end effectors, such as end effectors 3730, 3732, 3734, 3736, 3738. In some antenna forms 3718 located in the handle can receive and transmit a sufficiently powerful signal to interrogate the RFID device circuit 3720 at the end effector, without requiring a separate antenna 379 in the trunk. In some designs, circuits 3720 may be configured to provide a wired connection to control circuit 3702. For example, antennas 3716, 3718, 3719 may not be present.

84 is a block diagram showing one form of control configuration 3800 implemented by control circuitry 3702 for controlling surgical instrument 10. According to configuration 3800, control circuitry 3702 is programmed by control algorithm 3802. The control algorithm 3802 receives control parameters from the installed working parts in the form of input variables 3801. The input variables 3801 can describe the properties of the installed working part. Control algorithm 3802 also receives one or more input control signals 3818 (e.g., from a control joystick 840, a robotic system, or other suitable activating device controlled by a physician). Based on input variables 3801, control algorithm 3802 can control the surgical instrument 10 by converting one or more input control signals 3818 to an engine output control signal 3814 for controlling the engines 3714 and an optional output control signal 3816 for supplying energy for controlling the ultrasound and / or an electrosurgical end effector. It should be understood that not all forms of the surgical instrument 10 need to receive input variables from all of the listed working parts. For example, some forms of surgical instrument contain a single barrel and / or a fixed end effector. Also, in some forms of a surgical instrument (or its configurations), a power cord may be missing.

Control algorithm 3802 may drive a plurality of functional modules 3804, 3806, 3810, 3812 related to various aspects of the surgical instrument 10. Trigger module 3804 may convert one or more input control signals 3818 to one or more output control signals 3814 for the engine, which controlling the respective motors 3714 to start the tool 10. the hinge module 3806 can convert one or more input pilot signals 3818 to one or more output pilot signals 3814 for the engine, to rotate the barrel of the instrument 10. Power module 3812 can supply power to various components of the surgical instrument 10 in accordance with the requirements of the installed power cord. For those forms of tool 10 that use energy in their end effector (for example, in ultrasonic and / or electrosurgical instruments), the energy module 3810 can convert one or more input control signals 3818 to output control signals 3816 for the motor supplied to the end effector. Energy control signals 3816 may be generated by an oscillator 3704 and / or an external oscillator (not shown in FIG. 84), and may be supplied to a converter 3016 and / or energy-supplying end effector surfaces 3204A, 3204B.

Various modules 3804, 3806, 3810, 3812 of control algorithm 3802 may use control parameters in the form of input variables 3801 to convert one or more input control signals 3818 to output signals 3814, 3816. For example, input variables 3801 received from different working parts may differently affect control algorithm 3802. Input variables 3801 obtained from a power cord, such as 3540, 3542, 3544, can include, for example, the type of cord, whether the cord is connected to an external object, such as a generator or power connector, the identification of an external object to which the cord is connected, and so on. .P. One type of power cord, such as cord 3544, may be configured to receive energy from an external power connector, such as a wall outlet. When the control circuit 3702 determines that this type of power cord is installed (for example, in the socket 3710), the power module 3812 can be programmed to control circuit 3702 to supply power to the motors 3714 and / or power supply elements from the installed version of the cord. The power supplied through the installed version of the cord can be used as a supplement or instead of the power supplied from the 3713 battery.

Another type of cord, for example, 3540 and 3542, may be configured to communicate with an external generator. The power module 3812 and / or the energy module 3810 may be configured such that the control circuit 3702 supplies power to the power supply element based on the power supply signal received through the installed power cord. In addition, the energy module 3810 may be configured such that the control circuit 3702 provides an input signal to the generator through an installed power cord. Such an input signal may include, for example, an input control signal 3818 indicating that the doctor has requested an energy supply. In some forms, input variables 3801 received from the power cord may also indicate the type of generator that these power cords are designed to connect to (and / or which is implemented). Examples of generators may include independent electrosurgical generators, independent ultrasonic generators, combined electrosurgical / ultrasonic generators, and the like. In some forms, input variables 3801 received from the cord may also indicate the type of generator the connection to which the cord is designed to be. In some forms, this type of generator may affect the operation of control algorithm 3802. For example, different types of generators may have different control interfaces, expect the receipt of different commands from the surgical instrument 10 and / or give different output signals in different forms.

If the barrel, such as one of the trunks 3554, 3556, 3558, is a removable working part, then the input variables 3801, received from the barrel, may indicate different characteristics of the barrel. Such properties may include, for example, barrel length, position and degree of bending of the barrel (if any), parameters describing the articulation of the barrel (if any), and the like. The barrel length, position and degree of bending can be used, for example, in the start module 3804 and / or the hinge module 3806 of the control algorithm 3802 to determine the torque requirements and / or tolerances. Parameters describing the articulation of the barrel may indicate or allow the hinge module 3806 to generate various engine motions necessary to rotate the barrel in different directions. In some embodiments, input variables 3801 may also indicate the degree of allowable articulation that the articulator module 3806 can convert to the maximum allowable movement of the engine. In some forms, input variables 3801 received from the barrel may also indicate whether the installed barrel supports rotation of the barrel and / or rotation of the end effector. Such variables 3801 may be used by control algorithm 3802 to determine which engine or engines 3714 should be activated to rotate the barrel and / or end effector, as well as determine the torque, speed of each engine 3714, and the like.

Input variables 3801, obtained from the working parts of the end effectors, can have different shapes based on the type of end effector used. For example, endoscopic dividers and other staple end effectors, such as end effector 102 described above, can provide variable values that indicate the length of the end effector (for example, a staple line of 45 mm or 60 mm), whether the stop and elongated channel are straight or curved, indicate an engine 3714 to which a drive shaft, such as a drive shaft 180, or the like, is connected. Such input variables 3801 may be used by the start module 3804 to convert the input control signals 3818 requesting the start of the tool 10 to the output control signals 3814 for the engine. For example, length, bend, etc. the end effector can determine the activated motor 3714, the required amount of force or torque required to start the engine speed, etc. Similarly, input variables 3818 received from linear or circular staple end effectors, such as 3500 and 3520, can be used by trigger algorithm 3804 to determine which trigger motor 3714 is activated, the required amount of force or torque, in response to various levels of input pilot signal 3818 associated with start-up, engine speed required to start, etc.

If the end effector is an energy-supplied effector, for example, an electrosurgical end effector 3156 or an ultrasonic end effector 3026, then the received input variables 3801 can describe information related to the closing movement of the end effector, as well as information describing the energy supply elements, for example, time power supply in the context of a starting cycle. Information describing the closing movement can be used, for example, by start module 3804 to determine which engine or engines 3714 need to be activated to start and / or retract, torque and speed for each engine 3714, and the like. Information describing the power supply elements may be used, for example, by the energy module 3810 to generate the power supply output 3816. For example, the energy module 3810 can determine what type of power supply signal 3816 is needed (e.g., voltage, current, etc.), whether the signal can be generated by the internal oscillator 3704, or whether any blockings should be made for the signal. For example, interlocks can prevent the starting movement if the power is not supplied, and / or can prevent the power supply if the starting movement is not. In some embodiments, the implementation of the module 3810 energy can also determine the time of the output signal 3816 energy supply in the context of the starting cycle of the instrument. For example, in relation to the electrosurgical end effector 3156, the energy module 3810 can determine how long the energy-supplying surfaces 3204A, 3204B should be activated before the cutting member 3210 is advanced.

On Fig presents a structural diagram of one example of a process 3600 that implements a control algorithm 3802 with a control circuit 3702. In paragraph 3602, the control circuit 3702 can receive information about the presence of the working part (for example, a power cord, barrel, end effector, etc. .). This information can be generated automatically during installation of the working part. For example, in those forms in which the working part contains the active RFID device, information about the presence of the working part may be provided by the active RFID device. Also in some embodiments, the implementation of the socket 3710, 3712, through which the working part is connected to the tool 10, may include a switch indicating the presence of the working part. In No. 3604, the control circuit 3702 may request input variables 3801 from the working part. If the working part contains a passive RFID device, the interrogation may consist in irradiating the RFID device with an RF signal. If the working part has a wired connection with the control circuit 3702, then the survey may include sending a request to the memory device associated with the working part.

In No. 3606, the control circuit 3702 may receive input variables 3801 from the operating part. Input variables 3801 may be taken in any suitable form. For example, if the working part contains a passive RFID device, input variables 3801 can be obtained by demodulating the signal returned by the RFID device. If there is a wired connection between the working part and the circuit 3702, then the input variables 3801 can be obtained directly from the memory device in the working part, etc. In No. 3608, the control circuit 3702 may apply the input variables 3801 in the control algorithm 3802, for example, as described above in this document. This may affect the configuration of the existing algorithm 3802 so that the tool 10 works with the working part or parts that were installed.

FIG. 86 is a block diagram showing another form of control configuration 3900 implemented by control circuit 3702 for controlling a surgical instrument 10. In configuration 3900, control parameters obtained from various operating parts comprise algorithms for controlling the respective operating parts. In control circuitry 3702, a control algorithm 3902 is implemented that includes operating system 3904. Operating system 3904 is programmed to interrogate installed operating parts and accept control parameters in the form of implementing algorithms 3906. Each implementing algorithm 3906 may describe a method for converting input control signals 3908 into motor control signals 3910 and power supply outputs 3912. Having adopted the implementing algorithms 3906, the operating system 3904 can execute the algorithms 3906 and work with tool 10.

In some embodiments, the operating system 3904 may also negotiate various algorithms 3906. For example, the implementing algorithm 3906 received from the power supply end effector may take different configurations based on whether the tool is connected to an external generator or uses an internal generator 3704. Accordingly, the operating the 3904 system can tune the implementing algorithm 3906 of the power supply end effector based on whether the implementing algorithm 3906 is received from the corresponding cable ropitaniya adapted for connection to an external generator. Also, in some forms, the tolerances and / or speed required to start the end effector may depend on the configuration of the barrel. Accordingly, the operating system 3904 may be configured to modify the implementing algorithm 3906 received from the end effector based on the corresponding implementing algorithm 3906 received from the trunk.

On Fig presents a structural diagram of one example of a process 3400 that implements the control algorithm 3902 using the control circuit 3702. In paragraph 3402, the control circuit 3702 may execute the operating system 3904. The operating system 3904 may program the control circuit 3702 to perform various other actions, described herein regarding the configuration of the 3900 control. In No. 3404, control circuitry 3702 may interrogate one or more working parts mounted on surgical instrument 10, for example, as described herein. In No. 3406, the control circuit 3702 may receive implementing algorithms 3906, as described herein. In No. 3408, the control circuit 3702 may apply the accepted algorithms 3906 to work with a surgical instrument. Application of the accepted 3906 algorithms may include, for example, matching 3906 algorithms as described above herein.

FIGS. 88 and 89 illustrate one form of surgical instrument 4010 comprising an analysis module 4004 that is located in end effector 4002. In some forms, surgical instrument 4010 may be similar to surgical instrument 10, and end effector 4002 may be similar to end effector 102, which have been described above. The analysis module 4004 may be configured to measure one or more states of the end effector 4002. For example, in one design, the analysis module 4004 may include a tissue thickness analysis module that determines the thickness of the tissue sandwiched in the end effector 4002 between the bracket cassette 130 and the assembly 190 stops. The analysis module 4004 may be configured to generate a wireless signal indicative of one or more measured states of the end effector 4002. In accordance with one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 89, the analysis module 4004 may be located at the distal end of the end effector 4002 such so that the analysis module 4004 does not interfere with the passage of the brackets from the cassette 130 with the brackets when starting the brackets. In various forms, analysis module 4004 may include a sensor, a radio module, and a power source. See FIG. 90. The sensor may be located at the distal end of the end effector 4002 (as shown in FIG. 89), at the articulated joint 310, or at any other suitable part of the working part 100.

In various designs, the sensor may be any suitable sensor for detecting one or more conditions of the end effector 4002. For example and without limitation, the sensor that is located at the distal end of the end effector 4002 may include a tissue thickness sensor, such as a Hall sensor or reed switch, optical sensor, magnetic inductive sensor, power sensor, pressure sensor, sensor with piezoresistive film, ultrasonic sensor, eddy current sensor, accelerometer, pulse oximetry sensor, t a temperature sensor, a sensor configured to detect electrical characteristics of a path through a tissue (e.g., capacitance or resistance), or any combination thereof. As another example, and without limitation, the sensor, which is mounted on the articulated joint 310, may include a potentiometer, a capacitive sensor (sliding potentiometer), a piezoresistive film sensor, a pressure sensor, or any other suitable type. In some designs, the analysis module 4004 may comprise a plurality of sensors located at a plurality of locations of the end effector 4002. The analysis module 4004 may further comprise one or more visual markers to provide the user with a visual indication, for example, via a video signal, of the current state of the end effector 4002.

The analysis module 4004 may include a radio module configured to generate and transmit a wireless signal serving as an indicator of the measured state of the end effector 4002. See FIG. 90. The radio module may include an antenna configured to transmit a wireless signal at a first frequency. The transmit power in the analysis module 4004 may be limited by the dimensions of the antenna and power supply suitable for placement in the analysis module 4004. The size of the end effector 4002 may limit the available space for accommodating an antenna or power supply having sufficient power to transmit the signal from the analysis module 4004 to a remote point, for example, to a video monitor 4014. Due to the limited size of the antenna and the low power supplied by the power supply to the analysis module 4004 analysis module 4004 may generate a low power signal 4006 that can be transmitted over short distances. For example, in some forms, analysis module 4004 may transmit a signal from end effector 4002 to relay station 4008 located proximate to end effector 4002. For example, relay station 4008 may be located in handle 4020 of tool 4010, in stem 4030 (e.g., in the proximal portion of the trunk 4030) and / or in an implantable device located outside or inside the patient’s body.

Relay station 4008 may be configured to receive a low power signal 4006 from analysis module 4004. The low power signal 4006 is limited by the dimensions of the antenna and power supply that can be placed in the end effector 4002 as part of the analysis module 4004. The relay station 4008 may be configured to receive a low power signal 4006 and relay the received signal as a high power signal 4012. The high power signal 4012 may be transmitted to a remote network or device, such as a video monitor 4014, configured to display a graphical representation of the measured state of the end effector 4002. Although the analysis module 4004 and the relay station 4008 are essentially described with reference to a surgical instrument 4010, one skilled in the art it will be understood that a design with analysis module 4004 and relay station 4008 can be used with any suitable surgical system, such as a robotic Ovan surgical system. For example, the relay station 4008 may be located in the barrel and / or in the working part of the robotic surgical instrument. A suitable robotic surgical system is described in US Patent Application No. 13 / 538,700, entitled "Articulated Shaft Surgical Instruments", which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In some forms, video monitor 4014 may include an independent unit for displaying the measured state of the end effector 4002, a standard monitor for viewing for use in endoscopic, laparoscopic or open surgery, or any other suitable monitor. The displayed graphical representation may be displayed on top of the video stream or other information displayed on the video monitor. In some forms, the high power signal 4012 can interrupt the broadcast on the video monitor 4014 and cause the video monitor to display only a graphical representation of the measured state of the end effector 4002. The receiver module 4015 can interact with the video monitor 4014, allowing the video monitor 4014 to receive the high power signal 4012 from the relay station 4008. In some In designs, the receiver module 4015 can be formed as part of the video monitor 4014. The high power signal 4012 can be transmitted wirelessly and / or via a wired connection. The high power signal 4012 may be received by a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), or any other suitable network or device.

In some forms, video monitor 4014 may output an image based on data contained in a received high power signal 4012. For example, a physician may see real-time data characterizing the thickness of the tissue clamped during the entire procedure associated with the use of the surgical instrument 4010. The video monitor 4014 may be a monitor, for example, a cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor, a plasma monitor, a liquid crystal monitor (LCD) monitor or any other suitable monitor for visual display. Video monitor 4014 may display a graphical representation of the state of the end effector 4002 based on data contained in the received high power signal 4012. Video monitor 4014 may display the state of the end effector 4002 in any suitable way, for example, by overlaying a graphical representation of the state of the end effector on a video stream or other information displayed on the video monitor 4014. In some forms, the video monitor 4014 may be configured to display only data received from signal 4012 high power. Similarly, a high power signal 4012 may be received by a computer system (not shown). The computer system may comprise a radio frequency module (eg, receiver module 4015) for communicating with the relay station 4008. The computer system may store data received with the high power signal 4012 in a memory device (eg, in ROM or on a hard disk) and may process the data using a processor.

In some forms, the relay station 4008 amplifies the power of the low power signal 4006 to the high power signal 4012 without making any other changes to the low power signal 4006. The relay station 4008 may be configured to relay the high power signal 4012 to a remote network or device. In some designs, the relay station 4008 may modify or process the received low power signal 4006 before relaying the high power signal 4012. The relay station 4008 may be configured to convert the received signal of the first frequency transmitted by the analysis module 4004 into a second frequency suitable for reception by a remote network or device, such as a video monitor 4014. For example, in one design, analysis module 4004 may transmit a low signal 4006 power using the first frequency, which is the frequency that penetrates through the tissues of the human body. The frequency penetrating human tissue can be a frequency generated with the ability to pass through human tissue with minimal signal attenuation. For example, you can select a frequency outside the water absorption band to reduce signal attenuation in human tissue (which may contain a high proportion of water). For example, analysis module 4004 may use the Medical Implant Communication Service (MICS) frequency band (402–405 MHz), a suitable industrial, scientific, or medical (ISM) radio band (such as the 433 MHz carrier frequency or 915 carrier frequency) MHz), near-field communication frequency (13.56 MHz), Bluetooth communication frequency (2.4 GHz), ultrasonic frequency, or any other suitable frequency or range that penetrates human tissue. The relay station 4008 may receive a low power signal 4006 of a first frequency. A relay station 4008 can convert a low power signal 4006 from a first frequency to a second frequency suitable for long distance transmission by air. The relay station 4008 may use any suitable frequency for transmitting a high power signal 4012, such as, for example, a Wi-Fi frequency (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz).

In some forms, the relay station 4008 may convert the received low power signal 4006 from the first communication protocol to the second communication protocol before transmitting the high power signal 4012. For example, analysis module 4004 may transmit a low power signal 4006 using a first communication protocol, such as, for example, Near Field Communication Protocol (NFC), Bluetooth communication protocol, proprietary communication protocol, or any other suitable communication protocol. A relay station 4008 may receive a low power signal 4006 using the first communication protocol. The relay station 4008 may comprise a protocol conversion module for converting a received signal from a first communication protocol to a second communication protocol, for example, TCP / IP, UDP, or any other suitable communication protocol.

90 is a block diagram showing an analysis module 4104, which is an example of the construction of the analysis module 4004 described above. The analysis module 4104 may include a sensor 4116, a controller 4118, a radio module 4124, and an energy source 4126. The controller 4118 may include a processor unit 4120 and a memory device 4122. A sensor 4116 may be located at the distal end of the end effector 4002 (as shown in FIG. 89), articulated 310 or in any other suitable part of the working part 100. In various forms, the sensor 4116 may include any suitable sensor for detecting one or more conditions of the end effector.

In some designs, sensor 4116 may include a tissue thickness sensor, such as, for example, a Hall sensor. The tissue thickness sensor can detect the thickness of the tissue clamped in the end effector 4002 based on the magnitude of the magnetic field generated by the magnet 4042, which is located, for example, at the distal end of the stop assembly 190. See FIG. 89. When the doctor closes the stop assembly 190, the magnet 4042 rotates down and approaches the analysis module 4004, thereby changing the magnetic field detected by the analysis module 4004 as the stop assembly 190 rotates to a closed (or pinched) position. The magnetic field strength of the magnet 4042, determined by the analysis module 4004, characterizes the distance between the channel 130 and the stop assembly 190, which in turn characterizes the thickness of the tissue sandwiched between the channel 130 and the stop assembly 190 when the end effector 4002 is moved to the closed (or clamped) position .

Analysis module 4104 may be configured to generate a wireless signal serving as an indication of the measured state of the end effector. A wireless signal may be generated by the radio module 4124. In some forms, the transmitted power of the radio module 4124 is limited by the size of the antenna integrated in the radio module 4124 and the size of the power supply 4126 located in the analysis module 4104. The size of the end effector 4002 may limit the available space for accommodating an antenna or power supply 4126 having sufficient power to transmit the signal from the sensor 4116 to a remote location, such as a video monitor 4014. Given the limitations of the antenna and the low power delivered by the power source 4126, the radio module 4124 may only generate a low power signal 4006 that can be transmitted over short distances, for example, a distance to the proximal end of the barrel 4030. For example, in one form, the radio module 4124 can transmit the low power signal 4006 from the end effector 4002 to the handle 4020 of the surgical instrument 4010. In some designs, a 4126 power supply capable of delivering higher power can be used to generate the low power signal 4006 to extend the operating time of the surgical instrument 4010.

The memory unit 4122 of the controller 4118 may be one or more solid state drives of read-only memory (ROM) and / or random access memory (RAM). In various designs, processor 4120 and memory device (s) 4122 may be integrated in a single integrated circuit (IC) or may be in different ICs. The ROM device (s) may be flash memory. In the device (s) of the ROM, a code may be stored with instructions for the processor 4120 to execute the controller 4118. In addition, in the device (s) of the ROM 4122, data indicating the type of cartridge 130 can be stored. For example, in the device (s) of the ROM 4122, data may be stored indicating the type of model of the cassette 130 with brackets. In some designs, the controller in the handle 4020 of the surgical instrument 4010 may use the status and model information of the cassette 130 with the brackets to detect the correct operation of the surgical instrument 4010. For example, the analysis module 4004 may be configured to measure tissue thickness. The tissue thickness information and cassette model can be used to determine if the tissue sandwiched in the end effector 4002 is too thick or too thin based on a predetermined tissue thickness range for a particular cassette 130 with staples. The radio module 4124 may be a low-power radio module for two-way wireless communication with a relay station 4008 located in the handle 4020 of the tool 4010 using a wireless data transmission protocol. The radio module 4124 may include any antenna suitable for transmitting a low power signal 4006. For example, the radio module 4124 may comprise a balanced antenna, a half-wave balanced antenna, an unbalanced antenna, a near field communication antenna, or any other antenna suitable for transmitting a low power signal 4006. The size of the antenna, and therefore the available power and transmission frequencies, may be limited by the size of the end effector 4002.

In accordance with various forms, radio module 4124 can communicate with a relay station 4008 using a frequency that penetrates human body tissues. For example, the communication between the 4124 radio module and the 4008 relay station may use the Medical Implant Communication Service (MICS) frequency band (402–405 MHz), a suitable industrial, scientific, or medical (ISM) radio band (such as carrier frequency 433 MHz or carrier frequency 915 MHz), near-field communication frequency (13.56 MHz), Bluetooth communication frequency (2.4 GHz), ultrasonic frequency, or any other suitable frequency or range that penetrates human tissue. The power supply 4126 may be a suitable battery for supplying energy to the components of the analysis module 4004, for example, a lithium ion battery or some other suitable battery.

In some forms, the components of the analysis module 4104 may be located in the end effector 4002, on the barrel 4030, or in any other suitable place on the surgical instrument 4010. For example, a sensor 4116 may be located at the distal end of the end effector 4002. A controller 4118, a radio module 4124, and a power supply 4126 may located on the barrel 4030. One or more wires may connect the sensor 4116, the controller 4118, the radio module 4124 and the power supply 4126. In some forms, the functions of the end effector 4002 and the barrel 4030 may limit the placement of the module 4104 a Aliza. For example, in one form shown, the end effector 4002 is pivotally rotatable and rotatable at the articulated joint 310 with power. Placing the wires over the articulated articulation 310 may cause the wires to twist and bend and may interfere with the operation of the articulated articulation 310. The placement of the components of the analysis module 4004 may be limited distally from the articulated articulation 310 to prevent obstruction of the articulation 310 or analysis module 4004.

In some designs, the analysis module 4104 may include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 4123. The sensor 4116 may generate an analog signal representing the state of the end effector 4002. For the wireless transmission of a signal representing the state of the end effector 4002, it may be necessary to convert the analog signal to a digital signal. The analog signal produced by the sensor 4116 can be converted to a digital signal by means of an ADC 4123 before generating and transmitting a low power signal 4006. The ADC 4123 may be included in the controller 4118 or may be a separate controller, for example, such as a microprocessor, programmable gate array, or any other suitable ADC circuit.

FIG. 91 is a block diagram showing a relay station 4208, which represents one example of the structure of a relay station 4008 described above in this document. The relay station 4208 can be located proximally from the barrel, for example, in the immediate vicinity of the battery 4226, and can be separated from the analysis module 4004 in the end effector 4002, for example, the barrel 4030. For example, the relay station 4208 can be located in the handle 4020 of the surgical instrument 4010. Thus, the relay station 4208 can receive a wireless signal from the analysis module 4004. The relay station 4208 may be a detachable module that can selectively connect to a handle 4020 of a surgical instrument 4002.

As shown in FIG. 91, the relay station 4208 may include a radio module 4228 and an amplifier module 4230. In some designs, the radio module 4228 is configured to receive a low power signal 4006. The low power signal 4006 can be transmitted from the analysis module 4004 and serve as an indicator of the state of the end effector 4002. The radio module 4228 of the relay station 4208 receives the low power signal 4006 and provides the low power signal 4006 to the amplification module 4230. The amplification module 4230 can amplify the low power signal 4006 to the signal 4012 high power, suitable for transmission over longer distances than the low power signal 4006. After amplifying the received low power signal 4006 to a high power signal 4012, the amplifier module 4230 may transmit the high power signal 4012 to the radio module 4228 for transmission to a remote network or device, such as a video monitor 4014. The amplifier module 4230 may include any suitable amplifier circuit, for example a transistor, an operational amplifier, a fully differential amplifier, or any other suitable signal amplifier.

92 is a block diagram showing a relay station 4308, which represents yet another example of the construction of a relay station 4008 described above in this document. In the form presented, the relay station 4308 comprises a radio module 4328, an amplifier module 4330, and a processing module 4336. Amplifier module 4330 may amplify the received low power signal 4006 before being processed by processing module 4336, after processing the received low power signal 4006 by processing module 4336, or both before and after processing by processing module 4336. The radio module 4328 may comprise a receiver module 4332 and a transmitter module 4334. In some forms, the receiver module 4332 and the transmitter module 4334 may be combined into a signal transceiver module (not shown). Receiver module 4332 may be configured to receive a low power signal 4006 from analysis module 4004. The receiver module 4332 may provide the received low power signal 4006 to the processing module 4336.

In the present embodiment, the processing module 4336 comprises a frequency conversion module 4338 and a protocol conversion module 4340. The frequency conversion module 4338 may be configured to convert the received low power signal 4006 from a first frequency to a second frequency. For example, analysis module 4004 may transmit a low power signal 4006 using a first frequency suitable for transmission through human body tissues, such as the MICS or ISM frequency. Receiver module 4332 may receive a low power signal 4006 of a first frequency. A frequency conversion module 4338 can convert a low power signal 4006 from a first frequency to a second frequency suitable for long distance transmission by air. The frequency conversion module 4338 can convert the received low power signal 4006 to any frequency suitable for transmitting a high power signal, such as, for example, a Wi-Fi frequency (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz).

The protocol conversion module 4340 may be configured to convert the received signal from the first communication protocol to the second communication protocol. For example, analysis module 4004 may transmit a low power signal 4006 using a first communication protocol, such as, for example, Near Field Communication Protocol (NFC), Bluetooth communication protocol, proprietary communication protocol, or any other suitable communication protocol. The relay station 4308 may receive a low power signal 4006 using the first communication protocol. The relay station 4308 may include a protocol conversion module 4340 for converting the received low power signal 4006 from a first communication protocol to a second communication protocol, for example, TCP / IP, Bluetooth, or any other suitable communication protocol. A processing module 4336, including a frequency conversion module 4338 and a protocol conversion module 4340, may comprise one or more microprocessors, programmable gate arrays, integrated circuits, any other suitable controllers, or any combination thereof.

In some forms, the frequency conversion module 4338 and / or the protocol conversion module 4340 may be programmable. Networks, video monitors, or other receiving equipment can be configured to receive signals of a given frequency and a given protocol. For example, a local area network (LAN) can be configured to receive a wireless signal using the 802.11 wireless standard, which requires 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz transmission and the use of the TCP / IP communication protocol. A user can select an 802.11 wireless communication standard from among a plurality of communication standards stored in the relay station 4308. A memory module may be included in the relay station 4308 to store a plurality of communication standards. The user can select a communication standard for the high power signal 4012 from a plurality of communication standards stored in the memory module. For example, a user may select an 802.11 communication standard as a communication standard for transmitting a high power signal 4012. If a communication standard is selected by the user, then the frequency conversion module 4338 or the protocol conversion module 4340 can be programmed by the memory module to convert the received low power signal 4006 to the selected communication standard by converting the frequency or communication protocol of the received low power signal 4006. In some designs, the relay station 4308 may automatically detect the proper frequency and communication protocol for receiving a low power signal 4006 or transmitting a high power signal 4012. For example, a relay station 4308 may detect a wireless network in a hospital. The relay station 4308 can automatically program the frequency conversion module 4338 and the protocol conversion module 4340 to convert the received low power signal 4006 to an appropriate frequency and protocol for transmitting the high power signal 4012 to the hospital wireless network.

In the presented form, the processing module 4336 may supply the processed signal to the amplification module 4330 to amplify the processed signal to a high power signal 4012 before transmission. Amplifier module 4330 may amplify the processed signal to a level suitable for transmission by transmitter module 4334. Amplifier module 4330 may include any suitable amplifier circuit, such as a transistor, an operational amplifier, a fully differential amplifier, or any other suitable electronic amplifier. Amplifier module 4330 may include a battery (not shown) and may be connected to a power source 4326 located within the handle 4020 of the surgical instrument 4010. Amplifier module 4330 may be programmable to provide one or more gain levels in response to a particular type of communication.

Amplifier module 4330 can provide high power signal 4012 to transmitter module 4334. Although the radio module 4328, processing module 4336, and amplifier module 4330 are shown as separate modules, one skilled in the art will understand that any or all of the modules shown can be combined into a single integrated circuit or many integrated circuits.

FIG. 93 illustrates one embodiment of a method for relaying a signal reflecting the state of an end effector 4400. Method 4400 may include generating 4402 by an analysis module (eg, analysis module 4004 described herein) a signal reflecting the state of an end effector, such as an end effector 4002 The signal may represent any measurable state of the end effector 4002, for example, such as the thickness of the tissue sandwiched in the end effector 4002. The analysis module may generate a signal using a sensor, for example, such as a sensor 4116 of the analysis module 4104 shown in FIG. 90. Method 4400 may further include transmitting 4404 via a radio module of the generated signal as a low power signal. For example, the radio module 4124 shown in FIG. 90 may transmit a low power signal 4006. In practice, the power transmitted by the radio module may be limited by the dimensions of the antenna and power supply, which can be accommodated in the analysis module 4002. Given the limited space, the transmit power of the radio module may be limited by the low power signal 4006. The low power signal 4006 can be transmitted by a radio module with a power level that allows the low power signal 4006 to be received by the relay station 4008 in the handle 4020 of the surgical instrument 4010.

The method of relaying a signal indicating the state of the end effector 4400 may further include receiving 4406 a low power signal from a relay station, for example, a relay station 4008. After receiving a low power signal, the relay station can convert the 4408 low power signal to a high power signal, such as, for example, a signal 4012 high power. The conversion of the low power signal into a high power signal may comprise amplifying the low power signal by means of an amplifier module, such as amplifier module 4230 shown in FIG. Converting the low power signal to a high power signal may also include converting the communication standard of the low power signal to a communication standard suitable for transmitting a high power signal. For example, method 4400 may include converting 4408 a received low power signal from a first frequency to a second frequency by a processing module.

After converting 4408 a low power signal to a high power signal, method 4400 may further include transmitting 4410 a high power signal via a relay station to a remote location, such as, for example, an operating room viewing screen or a hospital network. A high power signal may be received 4412 on a viewing screen, which may display a graphical representation of the state of the end effector for the user. In some designs, the method may include the user selecting a frequency and / or communication protocol for the high power signal before converting the low power signal. The frequency and communication protocol can be selected from a variety of frequencies stored in the memory module of the relay station.

Electromechanical soft stop

In various forms, a mechanical stop may be used in the surgical instrument, configured to stop or slow down an element with an electric motor at the end or close to the end of the ejection stroke. In accordance with various forms, a mechanical stop may comprise a hard stop made to abruptly interrupt the movement of an element with an electric motor, and / or a soft stop made to slow down an element with an electric motor at or near the end of the beat. As described in more detail below, in some forms, such tools may include an electromechanical stop comprising a mechanical stop and a control system configured to measure and / or track the current supplied to the motor, which drives the electric motor member. In one form, the control system is configured to cut off the power supply to the engine or otherwise disengage the operation of the engine and the movement of the element with the electric motor after determining that the current corresponds to the specified parameters.

It should be understood that for brevity and ease of description, various aspects of the mechanical and electromechanical stops described herein are set forth essentially with respect to surgical instruments and associated drive elements comprising cutting and fastening devices. However, one skilled in the art will understand that the present description does not have such limitations and that the various mechanical stops and associated electromechanical elements described herein can be applied to various other devices known in the art. For example, while additional applications will become more apparent hereinafter, the various mechanical stops described herein can be used in any devices, such as those containing an electric motor and / or a control or drive system, as well as, in addition to endoscopic surgical instruments, for example, laparoscopic instruments. Referring again to FIGS. 1-6, which show an electromechanical surgical instrument 10 equipped with one form of mechanical stop in accordance with one aspect. The handle assembly 20 is operatively connected to the elongated barrel assembly 30, the distal part of which is operatively connected to the end effector 102. The end effector 102 comprises a proximal end 103 and a distal end 104. As described above, the elongated element 110 with the channel can be made functional and detachable the installation of a cassette 130 with brackets in it, and the stop assembly 190 can be selectively moved relative to the cassette 130 with brackets between the open position (see FIG. 4) and the closed position (with m. FIG.6) to capture tissue between them.

In some forms, the tool 10 comprises a drive element, which may be any part or component of the tool 10 configured to move under the influence of the engine. In various forms, the drive element may include an elongated barrel assembly 30, an end effector 102, and one or more components or parts thereof, such as a slide 170 or fabric cutting element 160, the casing part 162 of which can be threaded onto the end effector drive screw 180 such so as to be rotatably held inside the elongated channel 110. As described above, the slide 170 can be supported to move axially relative to the drive screw 180 of the end effector and can be made with the ability to interact with the part 162 of the casing of the tissue-cutting element 160. The drive screw 180 of the end effector can be supported with the possibility of rotation inside the elongated channel 110, as described above. Turning the drive screw 180 of the end effector in the first direction causes the cutting fabric member 160 to move in the distal direction during the push cycle. When pushing the tissue-cutting member 160 distally during the push-out cycle, the slides 170 are extruded distally by the tissue-cutting member 160. In various forms, the cassette 130 with brackets may be equipped with a mechanical stop containing a soft stop. In accordance with one aspect, the soft stop comprises one or more shock absorbers 174 to soften the stop of the slide 170 when they reach the end of the stroke close to the most distal position within the elongated channel 110. Each of the shock absorbers 174 may be associated with a damper 175, such as a spring 176. giving the shock absorber the necessary mitigation measure.

As described in more detail above, the slide 170 and the fabric cutting element 160 are arranged to move along the pushing stroke along the axis of the barrel A – A, directed from the proximal end 103 of the end effector 102 to the distal end 104 of the end effector 102 to simultaneously cut and staple the fabric. The illustrated end effector 102 is configured to function as an endoscopic divider for clamping, dissecting and stitching tissue; however, in other aspects, other types of end effectors can be used, such as end effectors for other types of surgical devices, such as clamps, dividers, stapling instruments, clip-on applicators, access devices, drug and gene therapy devices, ultrasound, RF or laser devices etc.

As shown in FIG. 94, where the distal end 104 of the end effector 102 shown in FIGS. 1–6 is shown, the drive member 158, comprising a slide 170 and a cutting member 160, is arranged to move along the pushing stroke along the axis of the barrel A – A between proximal starting position and distal position of the end of the beat. In one aspect, the position of the end of the beat is between the first and second positions S ₁ , S ₂ (see FIGS. 97 and 78). In various forms, the initial position and / or the position of the end of the beat includes a mechanical stop, such as a hard stop or soft stop, which can physically make it difficult, for example, to block or limit further longitudinal movement beyond the position of the corresponding stop. In one form, the mechanical stop is contained both in the initial position and in the position of the end of the beat. As shown, the drive element 158 in front of or near the end of the beat is distal.

As described above, a surgical system may be used in the surgical instrument 10 that controls one or more motors and associated drive components, as described above. 95 is a diagram depicting one form of a system comprising a control system 1400, a drive motor 1402, and a power source 1404 for use with a surgical instrument using an electromechanical stop, which may include a mechanical soft or hard stop in accordance with various aspects. The surgical system comprises a power source 1404 operably connected to the drive motor 1402 via a control system 1400. The power source 1404 may be configured to supply power to the drive motor 1402 to drive the drive element, such as the drive element 158. In some aspects, the power source 1404 may include any convenient power source, for example, a battery, an AC outlet, a generator, and the like. The control system 1400 may comprise various modules or circuits and may functionally control various components of the system, for example, a drive element 158, a power supply 1404, or a user interface. The control system 1400 may be configured to control, monitor, or measure, for example, various operations, signals, inputs, outputs, or parameters of tool 10.

In various forms, the control system 1400 may be similar to the control system 800 described above. For example, in various aspects, the control system 1400 may be configured to “electrically generate” a plurality of control movements. The term "electrical generation" means the use of electrical signals to activate or perform other control of the engine 1402, for example, engines 402, 530, 560 and 610 or other device powered by electricity, and may differ from the control movements created manually or in another mechanical way, without the use of electric current. For example, the control system 1400 can electrically generate a control movement, such as a rotary control movement, by supplying power to the drive motor, which may occur in response to a user command, such as an electrical signal supplied to the control system by activating an actuator, for example, by pressing a drive or trigger hook associated with the node 20 of the handle. In some aspects, the control system 1400 may electrically generate a rotary control movement, cutting off power to the drive motor 1402, which may occur in response to the actuator or trigger being returned to the open position by the user or biasing mechanism. In at least one aspect, the control system 1400 may electrically generate a rotary control movement, cutting off or reducing power to the drive motor 1402 when the measured electrical parameter reaches a predetermined value. For example, control system 1400 may shut off power to drive motor 1402 when the measured current reaches a predetermined threshold value.

As shown mainly in FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 94 and 95, in various forms, the surgical instrument 10 comprises a handle assembly 20 equipped with a user interface configured to transmit an activating signal from a user, such as a doctor, to a control system 1400 for electrical generation control movement with respect to the elongated barrel assembly 30, end effector 102, or drive member 158. For example, in some aspects, the user interface comprises a trigger assembly comprising flax mechanism or trigger mechanism for feeding the input signal to the control system 1400 to control the power supply to the drive motor 1402 such as the starter motor 530 (see. Figure 23). The assembly may include a closing trigger for closing and / or blocking the stop assembly 190 and a trigger for activating the end effector 102, for example, driving the drive element 158 with a push stroke. In operation, the closing trigger can be activated first, thereby bringing the stop assembly 190 to the closed position, for example, grabbing tissue between the cassette 130 with the brackets and the stop assembly 190. When the doctor is satisfied with the position of the end effector 102, the doctor can move the closing trigger to its fully closed lock position. The trigger can then be moved from the open position to the closed position by activating the drive element 158 during the eject stroke. In various aspects, the trigger may return to the open position when the physician stops pressure, or may mechanically return to the open position through functional communication with the activation of the actuating element 158 or through a separate mechanism. In one aspect, the trigger can be a multi-position hook, wherein as soon as the drive element 158 reaches or is close to the end of the stroke, the trigger can be moved from the second open position to the second closed position, which causes the drive element 158 to move proximally to starting position. In some such aspects, the first and second open and closed positions may be substantially the same. Depending on the desired configuration, in some aspects, the release button or release button may be configured to release the closing trigger from the locked position. As explained in more detail below, after moving the trigger from the open position to the closed position, the trigger can be switched off functionally, for example, the activation of the trigger can create a primary activation input signal that can be sent to the control system 1400, causing the control system 1400 to trigger the activation of the drive element 158. In some configurations, in the absence of a user override function, the activation of the drive element 158 will end at the end of a clock or close to as a result of its action of control system, e.g., uncoupling or interrupting the power supply to the drive motor even if the trigger is in the closed position.

In one form, the trigger assembly comprises a control joystick, which can be similar to the control joystick 840 described above. For example, as shown in FIGS. 33–39, the control joystick can provide the user with a useful opportunity to maximize operational control of various aspects of the surgical instrument 10 using a single interface. In one aspect, the joystick control barrel 842 may be operatively coupled to the joystick switch assembly 850, which is mounted to move within the switch housing assembly 844 such that the switch housing assembly 844 is mounted inside the pistol grip 26 of the handle assembly 20. The switch housing assembly 844 may comprise a biasing member 856 that biases the joystick switch assembly 850 and the joystick control barrel 842 to a desired position if external force does not determine its position, for example, a user. The control joystick 840 may be electrically connected to the control system 1400 to transmit control commands to the control system 1400. For example, manipulating the control barrel 842 of the joystick, such as pressing or moving in different directions, may allow the user to control various control movements associated with the surgical instrument 10 which may include activation of the drive element 158.

As described above, various forms of the surgical instrument 10 comprise one or more controllable motors or electric motors, for example, motors 402, 530, 560 and 610. One or more motors may be located, for example, in a portion of a handle assembly 20 or an elongated barrel assembly 30 tool 10 and can function by moving the drive element 158 between the initial position and the position of the end of the beat. In one form, the motor may include a brushless motor, a wireless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. In some designs, the engine may operate in rotary or linear activation mode, for example, by a linear actuator, and may include a gear connection between the drive motor 1402 and the drive member 158 to convert the rotational motion of the drive motor 1402 to linear motion or to couple the rotational motion between multiple components . In various forms, a transmission joint comprising one or more gears or elements interlocked with each other, such as belts or rollers, serves to functionally transmit rotary motion from the drive motor 1400 to one or more segments of the elongated shaft assembly 30 in order to activate end effector 102. For example, turning the drive screw 180 of the end effector in the first direction causes the drive element 158 to move in the first direction, for example, in the distal direction along the axis of the barrel A – A. In various aspects, turning the drive screw 180 of the end effector in a second direction opposite to the first causes the drive element 158 to move in the second direction, for example, in the proximal direction along the axis of the barrel A – A. In one aspect, the drive motor 1400 moves the drive shaft 158 distally to the end position of the stroke and can reverse its rotation and move the drive element 158 proximally to its original position. For example, the drive motor 1402 can reverse its rotation, for example, when the polarity of the applied voltage changes, thus rotating or moving the motor in the opposite direction and, therefore, reverse the movement of the drive element 158. Thus, the drive element 158 can be moved between the positions of the ejection stroke in both proximal and distal directions by conventional methods, or by methods such as those set forth in US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 235,782, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. It should be noted that although the tools 10 described herein essentially relate to portable tools containing a handle, various forms of tools 10 containing mechanical stops that can function as part of electromechanical stops can be adapted for use with robotic or similar devices. used by robotic systems.

In some aspects, the surgical instrument 10 comprises a reversible motor and includes a proximal mechanical stop and a distal mechanical stop. In various aspects, as described above, the activation of the trigger gives the activation signal of the trigger element 158 on the push cycle. When the drive element 158 reaches the end of the ejection stroke, for example, when the cutting element 160 reaches the distal end of its cutting cycle, the end switch or the direction switch, for example, can be turned to the closed position, reversing the polarity of the voltage applied to the motor 1402, and thus reversing the direction of rotation of the engine 1402. Such a switch can be connected to the control system 1400 and can be used as an addition or alternative to the power cut to the drive motor 1402. However, it should be noted that in other aspects, a manual reset switch may be provided to change the direction of rotation of the engine 1402 and return the drive member 158 to its original or initial position.

The mechanical stop is located at or near the end of the cycle and is configured to increase resistance to movement of the drive element 158 through the position of the end of the cycle. The mechanical stop includes a soft stop containing a pair of shock absorbers 174, each of which is operatively connected to the damping element 175. The shock absorbers 174 are made to come into contact with the drive element 158 at or near the end of the cycle. For example, the shock absorbers 174 shown in FIG. 94 are configured to come into contact with the contact surface 173 of at least one wedge 172. In various aspects, the shock absorbers 174 may have a size in addition to the size of the contact surface 173. For example, in at least one aspect, the shock absorbers 174 may be sized to form an inclined surface substantially equivalent to the contact surface 173. Thus, the contact stability between the shock absorbers 174 and the wedges 172 may increase, and the force exerted Goes to the contact surface 173 may be distributed over a large area structural gussets 174. Similarly, in one aspect, shock absorbers 174 comprise a flexible, e.g., elastic softening or surface for receiving the contact surface 173 and to reduce damage to the components. In one form, each of the damping elements 175 comprises a spring 176 located between the shock absorber 174 and the hard stop 178 to create resistance and slow down the drive element 158 at or near the end of the cycle.

It should be understood that various aspects of the surgical instruments 10 can be equipped with a variety of shock absorbers 174 and damping elements 175, and that the shock absorbers 174 and damping elements 175 can be made to contact other parts of the drive element 158. For example, the tool 10 may include an additional stop used as a complement or replacement of the above structures of the hard stop 178 and / or soft stop. Thus, in one form, as shown in FIG. 94, the drive screw 180 may be equipped with a stop, which may include a soft stop containing a shock absorber 290 connected to the damping element 291 located along the pushing stroke, which lies opposite the contact surface 292 of the drive element 158. In one form, the quenching member 291 comprises an elastomeric material that can be compressed between the shock absorber 292 and the hard stop 294, absorbing the longitudinally directed force of the drive member 158. In some aspects, a plurality of soft stops may be configured to contact drive element 158 at various predetermined locations. For example, in one form, the drive element 158 contacts the shock absorber 290 before contacting the shock absorber 174, for example, to obtain a better identifiable current peak, for example, to obtain a current surge containing two separate peak components, the amplitude and / or time interval between which can be used to ensure the appearance of a surge current.

In various forms, the damping elements 175 comprise a compressible part, which may or may not be associated with the hard stop 178. For example, in one aspect, the damping element 175 may be between the hard stop 178 and the shock absorber 174 and may include a compressible part, for example, a spring 176 or an elastomeric material such as a polymer, foam or gel. During operation, the shock absorber 174 can rapidly approach the compressible part after contact with the drive element 158, as a result of which the compressible part is compressed to a predetermined degree. In various aspects, the damping element 175 may include a retarding portion, such as a brake. In one aspect, the retardation portion comprises a compressible chamber, such as a hydraulic pneumatic chamber, whereby contact with the actuating member 158 may compress the piston located within the chamber, thereby increasing pressure, which should slow or slow down the actuating member 158. In some aspects the soft stop can be designed with the ability to provide resistance and / or deceleration, smoothly or gradually changing with respect to time and / or distance. For example, one or more coil springs having the same or different compression parameters can be made or arranged to precisely control the deceleration or braking of the decelerated element, for example, in a smooth or stepwise manner. In one form, the soft stop may be configured to provide increasing resistance to the distal movement of the drive member 158.

In various forms, the soft stop comprises a biasing element configured to bias the contact element from the solid stop. It should be understood that in some aspects the biasing element may repeat or may have similar components with quenching elements 175. Thus, in some forms, the biasing element may be capable of compression between the shock absorber 174 and the solid stop 178 under the action of the longitudinal movement force of the drive element 158 and subsequent return to the state before compression upon termination of the force. In some aspects, the biasing element may be configured to activate, move, and / or compress to counteract the starting movement of the drive element 158. It should be noted that compression or other anti-bias associated with the quenching elements 175 may result in energy transfer, which may at least temporarily store or hold a soft stop in a position with potential energy. In one aspect, the quenching elements 175 may be held in a position of potential energy, for example, by means of a latch, hook, or bollard, which may prevent one or more of the quenching elements 175 from returning to the state they had before compression. An advantage is that the stored energy can be released, for example, by the user and / or the control system 1400, as a result of which at least a portion of the stored energy will be applied to return the drive element 158 to its original position.

In various aspects, damping elements 175 may include additional configurations. For example, in one aspect, one or more magnets, such as permanent magnets, may be positioned so as to repel an opposing permanent magnet associated with the drive member 158. For example, one or more magnets may be rotatable or movable to adjust values repulsive magnetic fields that counteract longitudinal movement. In various other aspects, coil magnets may be used that are electrically coupled to a control system to activate before or after a successful deceleration of the drive element 158. The additional quenching elements 175 may include reciprocating structures, including structures using, for example, rollers and / or gears.

In various aspects, a mechanical stop comprising a soft stop may or may not be associated with a hard stop 178. For example, in some forms, the soft stop includes a hard stop 178, while in other forms, the soft stop does not include a hard stop or hard stop 178 may play the role of an auxiliary emphasis. In some forms, the soft stop may include a spring-loaded hard stop 178 to provide gradual and / or increasing resistance to the pushing or deceleration cycle of the drive element 158. For example, the soft stop can be configured to gradually reduce the speed of the drive element 158 by resisting proximal or distally directed force applied to drive element 158 by drive motor 1402, or expressed in inertia of the system. In at least one form, the amount of resistance provided by the soft stop to counteract or slow down the starting or driving movement can be selectively adjusted. For example, the tool 10 may be equipped with one or more soft stops that can be selectively biased or rotated into a plurality of push-pull positions. Thus, the user can adjust the position of the soft stop for a specific application. In one form, an electrosurgical device comprising a soft stop may include an adjusting dial to adjust the resistance created by the soft stop at the end of the ejection stroke. In some such forms, a change in disk adjustment can simultaneously set the longitudinal distance covered by the soft stop, and therefore the position of the end of the beat, as well as threshold values associated with determining the surge, as described in more detail below. In one form, a warning signal may be displayed to the user when manually setting a parameter outside the specified mechanical tolerance.

Referring again to FIG. 95, in various forms, the control system 1400 is configured to generate feedback information, which can at least partially be obtained based on measurements taken by the control system 1400, or obtained from other components of the system, and / or response to it . For example, in one aspect, the control system 1400 may be configured to start supplying power to system components in response to an input signal, such as a user command. In some aspects, the control system 1400 may generate or provide information to the user, such as a warning or instrument status information, through a user interface such as a visual or audio display. The signals or inputs generated by the control system 1400 may, for example, be generated in response to other signals or inputs from the user, the components of the tool, or they may depend on one or more measurements associated with the tool 10. In some aspects, the control system 1400 may be configured to track or receive various measured values and then interpret, calculate and / or decode the information and respond in a predetermined manner.

In one aspect, control system 1400 includes, or can be selectively coupled to, a semiconductor element, a computer chip, or memory. As noted above, the input signals coming to or from the control system 1400, for example, signals from the user or generated by the control system 1400 in response to commands, signals, or measured parameters, can be analog or digital. Accordingly, in some forms, the control system 1400 may be configured to send or receive analog or digital inputs or signals going to or from instrument components. In various aspects, the control system 1400 may employ software that can use one or more algorithms to further generate input signals for controlling and tracking system components. Such generated input signals may depend on criteria measured and / or calculated by the control system 1400 or, in some cases, provided by the control system 1400 with another tool component, a user, or a separate system that is in functional communication with the control system 1400. For example, the control system 1400 may respond by activating or deactivating the drive motor 1402, cutting off or starting power supply to the drive motor 1402 or other system components, or by directing commands or additional input signals for these or other operations. In various aspects, the control system 1400 may include a circuit, for example, transistors or switches, configured to monitor electrical parameters associated with the operation of the tool 10. For example, a control system circuit may be configured to activate and deactivate the drive motor 1402 or open and close the circuit power supply to the drive motor 1402, when the threshold value reaches the electrical parameters associated with the operation of the tool 10, for example, a surge of current, which determines shared by the configuration of the circuit.

In some forms, surgical instruments 10 and systems using a mechanical stop may operate without feedback. For example, in one form, the tools can operate without the aid of a position feedback device configured to provide the control system 1400 with information regarding how the tool 10 responds to input signals so that the control system 1400 can modify the output signals. In various aspects, as described above, the control system 1400 can monitor the power supply to the drive motor 1402 to determine the position of the end of the cycle of the drive element 158. Thus, for example, the control system 1400 using various voltage tracking techniques by which current can be determined, and namely, current surges, can at least partially determine the mechanical stop. For example, the control system 1400 may monitor the voltage in order to determine the use of current with respect to the drive motor 1402 and, therefore, to the drive element 158, as described above. Resistance during the ejection stroke increases the torque on the drive motor 1402, which leads to detectable current surges with respect to the power supply to the drive motor 1402. Thus, a large current surge can be measured by the control system 1400 when the drive element 158 is in contact with the mechanical stop , and at this moment the control system 1400 can respond by shutting off the power supply to the drive motor 1402. Therefore, the mechanical stop creates physical force, slowing down yuschee actuating member 158, and generates a current output, which controls the system 1400 can determine the start and disengagement of the drive motor 1400.

As noted above, in some aspects, the control system 1400 is configured to control various operations of the tool 10. For example, in some aspects, the control system 1400 comprises a control circuit 1406 operably connected to a drive circuit 1408. The drive circuit 1408 may be configured to supply power from the power source 1404 to the drive motor 1402 to drive the drive element 158. The control circuit 1406 may be configured to control the power supply to the drive circuit 1408. Therefore, the control circuit 1406 can be configured to control the drive motor 1402 by controlling the supply of power to the drive circuit 1408. The control circuit 1406 can also be configured to monitor, for example, determine or measure the power supplied to the drive motor 1402. For example, the control circuit 1406 can determine the input / output voltage and / or current at one or more points of the drive circuit 1408 through which the drive the motor 1402 receives power to activate the drive element 158. In various aspects, the control circuit 1406 may include a drive circuit 1408 or be connected to this circuit in which it can monitor pick up the input / output voltage, for example, on a resistor connected to a current loop connected to the drive circuit 1408. Those skilled in the art will understand that the above description is only one way of measuring and / or tracking the current supplied to the drive motor 1402, and it will also be understood that the current can be similarly measured and / or monitored by alternative methods known to those skilled in the art and therefore , such methods are within the scope of the present invention. In some forms, when the control circuit 1406 detects a surge in the current supplied to the drive motor 1402, the control system 1400 cuts off power to the drive motor 1402 through the drive circuit 1408. In various aspects, the control circuit 1400 can also disconnect a functional connection, such as a transmission, between the drive motor 1402 and the drive element 158, at least for a short time, in response to a measured current surge.

In some configurations, if the electromechanical stop contains a solid stop capable of abruptly terminating the push cycle, the tool 10 may be subject to mechanical failure, for example, due to the time delay between detecting a surge and subsequent removal of the drive force provided by the drive motor 1402. In addition, for example, due to the inertia of the system, the drive element 158 can also continue to move or continue to be pushed after reaching the end of the cycle, despite the termination of cottages power to the drive motor 1402. In some cases, the delay in removing the driving force from the drive member 158 can lead to mechanical failure of the drive element 158, drive motor 1402, the drive screw 180 or other transmission connections.

FIG. 96 is a graphical depiction of the current versus time in a tool 10 using an electromechanical stop containing a solid stop 178 without a soft stop. The current between the moment A corresponding to the position of the drive element 158 is proximal from the end of the cycle and the moment B corresponding to the position of the drive element 158 in contact with the solid stop 178 at the end of the cycle is relatively low or constant. However, at time B, current forms surges representing contact between the trigger element 158 and the solid stop located at the end of the clock cycle. Due to the time delay between detecting a surge in current at some point after time B and stopping the power supply to the drive motor 1402, the drive motor 1402 continues to move the drive element 158, albeit unsuccessfully, to the hard stop 178 until the time C when the power supply to the drive element 158 is terminated. Although not shown, the inertia of the system can also continue to move the drive element 158 to the solid stop 178 for some time after point C.

As noted above, despite the convenience of working without feedback, surgical instruments that function as shown in FIG. 76 may be subject to mechanical failure, for example, due to a delay between the detection of a surge and the subsequent cessation of drive movement. In accordance with various forms, as shown in FIGS. 97 and 98, the tools 10 described herein may include electromechanical stops containing a soft stop structure to come into contact with the drive element 158 and slow it down before reaching the end of the beat to form a measurable release current, thereby increasing the time available to the control system 1400, for detecting and responding to a surge of current. Surgical instrument 10 includes various elements similar to those shown in FIGS. 1 and 70; therefore, similar elements are denoted by similar identification numbers and will not be repeated for brevity. The tool 10 includes an electromechanical stop containing a soft stop to counteract the movement of the drive element 158 at or near the end of the pushing stroke or its segment, for example, at the proximal starting position or at the distal end of the beat when passing between the first position of the soft stop S ₁ and the second position soft stop S ₂ along the axis of the barrel A – A. The electromechanical stop further comprises a hard stop 178 in position H. The soft stop contains a shock absorber 174 and a damping element 175 located at or near the end of the beat, for example, at least partially between the first position of the soft stop S ₁ and the second position soft stop S ₂ . The shock absorber 174 and the damping element 175 provide resistance to the drive element 158 in the region of the end of the cycle between the first position of the soft stop S ₁ and the second position of the soft stop S ₂ . In various forms, the shock absorber 174 and the damping element 175 can also slow the drive element 158 from the first position of the soft stop S ₁ to the second position of the soft stop S ₂ . In some forms, the soft stop may be located at any preferred location where it is desired to create resistance or to begin to slow down drive element 158.

On Fig presents the drive element 158 in the process of guiding along the stroke of the ejection in the position proximally from the first position of the soft stop S ₁ . FIG. 98 shows a drive member 158 after it is completely guided by the push cycle beyond the first position of the soft stop S ₁ at the end of the beat so that it is in the second position of the soft stop S ₂ at the end of the beat. Accordingly, the soft stop is positioned so that it contacts the actuating member 158 in the first position of the soft stop S ₁ , then it is compressed distally to the second position of the soft stop S ₂ due to compressive interaction with the hard stop in position H. Accordingly, the second position of the soft stop S ₂ may substantially represent the position of the solid stop H ^* with respect to the drive element and the distal end of the beat. In various aspects, the actuating member 158 may fully or substantially slow down until it reaches the position of the hard stop H ^* in the second position of the soft stop S ₂ . Therefore, in such aspects, the hard stop, if present, may be a backup or safety element.

Resistance to driving movement created by a mechanical stop, which can be accompanied by a decelerating or braking force, can be, for example, smooth, increasing or stepwise with respect to distance and / or time. Thus, in some aspects, the soft stop forms a portion of increased resistance between the first position of the soft stop S ₁ and the second position of the soft stop S ₂ . It should be noted that the end of the cycle does not necessarily imply that the functional operation of the drive element continues all the way to the end of the cycle, for example, to the second position of the soft stop S ₂ . For example, in one form, the end of the beat is located at or near the position of the distal bracket itself. In another form, the position of the primary contact with the soft stop, for example, in the first position of the soft stop S ₁ , is distal from the distal bracket itself. Thus, the drive element 158 may not contact and experience substantial resistance to its longitudinal movement along the pushing cycle until the distal bracket is pushed out, and at that time an increase in resistance and / or deceleration can begin. Thus, the movement of the drive element will not be prematurely limited by the action of the control system 1400.

FIG. 75 is a graphical depiction of the current versus time in a tool 10 using an electromechanical stop containing a soft stop in accordance with various aspects. The current between the moment A ^* corresponding to the position of the drive element 158 is proximal from the end of the cycle and the moment B ^* ₀ corresponding to the position of the drive element 158 in contact with a soft stop, for example, at the shock absorber 174, is relatively low or constant. However, after the moment B ^* _{0, the} current gradually begins to increase, representing an increase in resistance to the longitudinal movement of the drive element. In various aspects, a gradual increase in resistance can have the beneficial effect of increasing the current ejection time, for example, between the moments B ^* ₀ and B ^* ₂ , significantly increasing the time required for the response and giving the control system 1400 reaction time, thereby reducing the adverse effects of the time delay, described above with respect to FIG. In some aspects, the control system 1400 can monitor the voltage and measure the current supplied to the drive motor 1402, as described above. The control system 1400 may be configured to respond in a predetermined manner to a change in current. For example, when the threshold current is reached, for example, at time point B ^* ₁ , the control system 1400 may cut off the power supply to the drive motor 1402. In one configuration, the threshold current may comprise a time component. For example, a threshold current may include the difference between currents over a given period of time. In some configurations, the current surge may comprise one of a plurality of predetermined current thresholds, each of which is determined by the ratio of the current difference to the time period. As can be seen in FIG. 99, a gradual increase in resistance can also have the advantageous effect of reducing the impact on the end effector 102 when in contact with the hard stop at time point B ^* ₂ , as well as decreasing the time period from B ^* ₂ to C ^* during which the drive motor 1402 continues to activate the drive element 158 to the solid stop 178 after stopping the distal movement.

In some aspects, the control system 1400 can determine that a predetermined current threshold has been reached, measured, for example, by increasing current or the slope of the current versus time curve, and then stop supplying an input power signal to drive motor 1402. For example, in one configuration, the control system 1400 can monitor the current and thereby cut off power to the drive motor 1402 when the amplitude of the current exceeds a predetermined value for a predetermined period of time. In various aspects, these or other values, such as thresholds, can be adjusted by the user, for example, manually or by accessing the embedded protocol through an administrative connection, for example, through a computer. In at least one configuration, the drive circuitry 1408 or control circuit 1406 comprises a variable resistor so that the user can change the current supply to the drive motor 1402 by changing the degree of activation with respect to the trigger mechanism. For example, the rotation of the trigger motor 530 may be proportional to the pressure or movement that the user applies to the actuator or trigger. In one form, control circuitry 1406 may be coupled to drive circuitry 1408 such that thresholds can be raised or weakened.

In some configurations, multiple sensors or electrical components may be used in end effector 102 to provide various forms of user feedback. In one aspect, the sensors may provide feedback to the control system 1400 and automatically control various motors associated with the tool. For example, in one aspect, a surgical instrument comprises a plurality of motors, such as motors 402, 530, 560 and / or 610, which can be activated by one or more control systems, such as control systems 800 and 1400, to electrically generate control movements. The control systems can be configured to functionally control the engines and receive positive feedback from a plurality of sensors configured to track position information. In some aspects, control systems may apply position information to electrically generate modified or modulated control movements by controlling the power supply to one or more motors, or, for example, may report various position information to a user. In various aspects, control systems may operate in a hybrid system without feedback from it. For example, the control system 1400 may be configured to control a drive motor 1402, for example, a starting motor 530 in an open-loop system, as described herein, while controlling various other motors, for example, a barrel rotation motor 610 in a feedback system. In one aspect, the control system 1400 may be configured so that the user can selectively select which engines the control system 1400 can control in a feedback system and which in a non-feedback system, for example, to configure various operations of tool 10 as desired .

It should be understood that the user may provide one or more input signals that may or may not be evaluated by the control system 1400. For example, the control system 1400 may include an override mode in which one or more input signals supplied to the control system 1400 by one or more users or other control systems associated with the control system 1400 may be redirected and / or supplied to the tool 10. For example, when the drive element 158 is in the initial position, the control system 1400 can block, delay or ignore commands that supply power to the drive motor 1402 or otherwise act on the drive motor 1402 to electrically trigger the drive movement of the drive element 158. In at least one aspect, the lock occurs or is the main state / position of the system until until one or more events occur, such as closing the stop 190 or receiving adequate mechanical or electrical feedback, such as deformations of the components of the fixing overdetermined user command to change the measured parameter / near / along the path of the drive member.

In various aspects, one or more mechanical stops, including soft stop assemblies as described herein, may be provided in a kit. The kit may have a specific application in one or more of the selected devices or may be modified for universal use in many devices. For example, a set of soft stop assembly may comprise a replaceable retarding element, such as damping elements and / or contact elements, such as shock absorbers. In one form, the kit includes interchangeable or spare bushings that can be used as inserts inside the housing, the size of which allows the damping element to be supported in order to increase the resistance exerted by the soft stop in one or more places along the pushing stroke. In various forms, gaskets can be provided for adjusting the clearance between the stop and the housing of the device. In some aspects, the contact element may include a permanent or temporary limiter, such as a removable, modifiable, or updated contact limiter, configured to fit between the drive element and the shock absorber, the quenching element, and / or the hard stop. The contact limiter may be formed from an elastic or other material that is at least partially compressible upon contact with the accelerated mass of the drive element or upon impact with a soft or hard stop. In one aspect, the stopper may be a polymer that can be worn, tensioned, inserted, or welded onto a part, such as the contact surface of the drive member 158. In another aspect, the stopper can be installed or suitable for mounting on the front surface of the shock absorber 174. In other aspects, the shock absorber 174 may comprise a contact configured to contact and at least partially absorb force from the accelerated mass of the drive member 158 to prevent or partially limit the degree of physical damage or mechanical damage to the drive element 158, the drive motor 1402, the drive screw 180, or related components.

In some forms, removing a surgical instrument, such as a surgical instrument 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, from a patient’s body may be difficult because the end effector 102 may be pivotally or axially rotated, which prevents the end effector 102 from passing through trocar or other access point to the patient’s body. The doctor may not know how the end effector 102 is pivotally rotated, for example, along the axis of the B-B hinge, and may try to remove the surgical instrument 10 without first straightening the end effector 102. In various forms, the surgical instrument can be made as follows so that its end effector is rectified based on the input of the sensor (for example, the instrument may have an end effector rectified by the sensor). Thus, the doctor, before removing the end effector 102 from the patient’s body, for example, through a trocar, can be sure that the end effector 102 is straightened with respect to the axis of hinge B – B. In various forms, the sensor may be configured to trigger an electric drive rectification event when the end effector is removed from the patient’s body.

On FIG presents one form of surgical instrument 5810, containing the end effector 5802, rectified by a sensor. Sensor 5826a, 5826b can detect strong proximal movement of the surgical instrument 5810. Strong proximal movement may indicate that the surgical instrument 5810 is removed from the patient’s body, for example, through a trocar or external tube. A minimum proximal movement threshold can be set to prevent straightening of the end effector 5802 due to the small proximal displacement of the surgical instrument 5810 during treatment. In various forms, when the strong proximal movement of the surgical instrument 5810 exceeds the minimum threshold, the sensor 5826a, 5826b can send a signal to an engine, such as, for example, a swivel control motor 402, causing the motor to straighten the end effector 5802.

In some forms, the sensor 5826a, 5826b may be located in the barrel 5831, end effector 5802, handle 5820, or any other place suitable for detecting strong proximal movement of the surgical instrument 5810. In various forms, the sensor 5826a, 5826b may be any suitable sensor for detection moving the surgical instrument 5810. For example, the sensor 5826a, 5826b may be a sensor configured to measure acceleration, such as an accelerometer. When the accelerometer detects acceleration in the proximal direction that exceeds a predetermined threshold, it can send a signal to the swivel control motor 402 to activate the rectification process. In another example, the sensor 5826a, 5826b may be a proximity sensor, for example, a magnetic sensor, a Hall sensor, a reed switch or any other suitable proximity sensor. In various forms, the proximity sensor may be configured to measure the proximity of the sensor 5826a, 5826b to a fixed point, such as a trocar 5858 or an external tube 5960. When removing the surgical instrument 5810 in the proximal direction, the distance between the sensor 5826a, 5826b and the fixed point may decrease, in as a result of which the sensor 5826a, 5826b sends a signal to the hinge control motor 402 in order to activate the drive rectification process of the end effector 5802. Many sensors can be included in various forms for To carry out additional checks for the straightening process.

In one form, the first sensor 5826a and the second sensor 5826b may be located on the surgical instrument 5810. The first sensor 5826a may be located on the proximal part of the barrel 5831, and the second sensor 5826b may be located on the distal part of the barrel 5831. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the first and the second sensors 5826a, 5826b can be placed in any suitable part of the surgical instrument 5810, such as, for example, a handle 5820, a surgical module that can be detached, a barrel 5831, or an end effector rectified by a sensor 5802. In some forms, the first sensor 5826a may be an accelerometer configured to detect strong proximal displacement of the surgical instrument 5810. In some forms, the second sensor 5826b may be a proximity sensor configured to detect the distance between the second sensor 5826b and a fixed point, for example such as trocar 5858. In the present form, trocar 5858 contains a plurality of magnets 5822. A plurality of magnets 5822 can generate a constant magnetic field. The second sensor 5826b may be configured to detect an increase in magnetic field intensity indicative of a movement of the second sensor 5826b and therefore of the end effector 5802 rectified by the sensor to the trocar 5858.

In one form, the first sensor 5826a and the second sensor 5826b may be configured to activate the drive rectification process of the end effector 5802 rectified by the sensor. In operation, the first sensor 5826a can detect strong proximal displacement of the surgical instrument 5810 by detecting that a predetermined proximal acceleration threshold is exceeded. The first sensor 5826a may send a first signal to the hinge control motor 402 to activate the drive rectification process. In some forms, the second sensor 5826b can also detect strong proximal movement of the end effector by detecting a change in the magnetic field between the sensor 5826b and a fixed point, such as a trocar 5858. The second sensor 5826b can send a second signal to the swivel control motor 402 to activate the drive rectification process.

As shown in FIG. 105, the end effector 5802, rectified using a sensor, was pivotally rotated along the axis of the hinge B – B (shown in FIG. 1). The end effector 5802, rectified by the sensor, can be connected to the barrel 5831. The operator can move the surgical instrument 5810 in the proximal direction, causing the trunk 5831 and the end effector 5802, rotated by the sensor, to move in the proximal direction. Proximal movement can be detected by the first sensor 5826a. The first sensor 5826a may be an accelerometer. The first sensor 5826a may send a signal to the hinge control motor, such as for example the hinge control motor 402, to activate the drive rectification process. Proximal displacement can also be detected by a second sensor 5826b. The second sensor 5826b may be a magnetic proximity sensor, such as, for example, a Hall sensor or a reed switch. The second sensor 5826b may send a signal to the hinge control motor 402 to activate the drive rectification process. The second sensor 5826b may send a signal to the hinge control engine 402 independently of the first sensor 5826a.

When the doctor removes the surgical instrument 5810 from the trocar 5858, the drive rectification process rectifies the end effector 5802, rectified by the sensor. After completion of the drive rectification process, the end effector 5802, rectified by a sensor, is in a direct configuration, as shown in FIG. 106. The end effector 5802, rectified by means of the sensor, can be removed through the trocar 5858 without injuring the patient or damage to the trocar 5858, and also without the need for the doctor to manually straighten the end effector 5802, rectified by the sensor. In some forms, the surgical instrument 5810 may provide a feedback to the user, indicating activation or completion of the drive rectification process. For example, in some forms, an LED may be provided on the handle 5820. The LED may glow in the drive rectification process to provide the user with a visual indication of the ongoing drive rectification process.

In some forms, the first and second sensors 5826a, 5826b may function as additional means of checking the rectification process. For example, in some forms, both the first and second of sensors 5826a, 5826b may send a signal to the hinge control motor 402 to activate the rectification process. The signal from the first sensor 5826a or from the second sensor 5826b may cause the swivel control motor 402 to straighten the end effector 5802 rectified by the sensor. In some forms, the drive rectification process may not be performed until a signal is received from both the first sensor 5826a and the second sensor 5826b. In some forms, the first sensor 5826a or the second sensor 5826b can independently activate the drive rectification process, but the process can be interrupted if a signal from both the first and the second of sensors 5826a, 5826b is not received within a specified period of time. For example, the drive rectification process may be triggered by a signal from the first sensor 5826a. If a signal from the second sensor 5826b is not received within a predetermined period of time, then the drive rectification process may be interrupted by the surgical instrument 5810.

In some forms, the surgical instrument 5810 may include a stop sensor. The stop sensor can detect contact between the end effector 5802 rectified by the sensor and the tissue cut during the straightening process. If the stop sensor detects contact between the end effector 5802 rectified by the sensor and the tissue cut, the stop sensor can send a signal to the hinge control motor 402 and stop the straightening process to prevent injury to the patient. In some forms, when the stop sensor determines that the end effector 5802 rectified by the sensor is no longer in contact with the tissue site, the stop sensor can send a signal to the hinge control motor 402 to continue the straightening process. In some forms, the stop sensor can send a signal to the operator, for example, through a feedback device, notifying the user that the end effector 5802, rectified by the sensor, has come into contact with the tissue site and that the straightening process is stopped. The stop sensor may be, for example, a pressure sensor located on the end effector 5802, rectified by the sensor.

On Fig and 108 presents one form of the end effector 5902, rectified by a sensor. In some forms, the sensor-rectified end effector 5902 can be inserted into the patient’s body through the external tube 5960. The external tube 5960 may include a magnetic ring 5922 located at the distal end of the external tube 5960. The first sensor 5926a and the second sensor 5926b can be configured with the possibility of detecting the movement of the end effector 5902, rectified by the sensor, when the barrel 5931 is removed from the outer tube 5960. In some forms, the first sensor 5926a may be an accelerometer, and the second sensor 5926b may have a magnetic proximity sensor. The second sensor 5926b can detect a change in magnetic field strength as the second sensor 5926b moves proximally to the magnetic ring 5922. When the second sensor 5926b reaches the magnetic ring 5922, the second sensor 5926b can generate a signal that starts the drive rectification process of the end effector 5902. The second sensor 5926b may be any suitable sensor for sensing magnetic field changes, such as, for example, a reed switch or a Hall sensor. As described above, the first sensor 5926a and the second sensor 5926b may provide additional verification of the drive rectification process. Those skilled in the art will understand that in some forms, only the first sensor 5926a or only the second sensor 5926b may be included. In some forms, additional sensors may be included to detect strong proximal movement of the 5910 surgical instrument.

On Fig and 110 presents one form of the end effector 6002, rectified by the sensor, passing from the articulated state to the rectified state during extraction from the trocar 6058. In Fig.109, the end effector 6002, rectified by the sensor, is pivotally rotated position relative to the barrel 6031. The doctor may begin to retrieve the end effector 6002, rectified by the sensor, through the trocar 6058 in the proximal direction indicated by arrow A. Proximal movement can be detected first a sensor 6026a, a second sensor 6026b, or both the first and second sensors 6026a, 6026b. The first sensor 6026a may be an accelerometer configured to detect strong proximal movement of the barrel 6031. The second sensor 6026b may be a magnetic sensor configured to detect a change in magnetic field between the second sensor 6026b and a fixed point, such as a trocar 6058. Trocar 6058 may include a magnet 6022 to generate a magnetic field. When the barrel 6031 is retrieved through the trocar 6058, the magnetic field detected by the sensor 6026b will change in proportion to the distance between the magnetic sensor 6026b and the magnet 6022. The first sensor 6026a or the second sensor 6026b can generate a signal for the swivel control motor 402 to activate the drive process of straightening the end effector 6002, rectified by a sensor, relative to barrel 6831.

After completion of the drive rectification process, the end effector 6002 rectified by the sensor is in the forward state, as shown in FIG. 110. In the straight state, the end effector 6002, rectified by means of a sensor, can be removed through the trocar 6058 without injuring the patient and damaging the trocar 6058, and also without the need for the doctor to manually straighten the end effector 6002. In some forms, the doctor may be able to redefine the drive rectification process and leave the end effector 6002, rectified by the sensor, in a pivotally turned position when it is removed from the trocar 6058.

FIG. 111 shows one form of a magnetic ring 6121 that can be attached to a trocar 5858, 6058, or an outer tube 5960. The magnetic ring 6121 may comprise a plurality of magnets 6122 capable of generating a magnetic field. A magnetic field can be detected by a magnetic sensor located on a surgical instrument, such as, for example, a second sensor 6026b. The magnetic sensor 6026b may be configured to hold the end effector rectified by a sensor, such as the end effector 6002, in a straightened state when the magnetic sensor detects a magnetic field generated by the magnetic ring 6121. For example, in one form, the magnetic sensor 6026b may be configured with the ability to generate a blocking signal to prevent articulation of the end effector if the magnetic sensor 6026b detects a magnetic field exceeding a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold can be determined based on the magnetic field generated by the magnetic ring 6121, at a certain distance corresponding to the location of the axis of the hinge B – B outside the trocar 5858 or the outer tube 5960. In some forms, the magnetic sensor 6026b can activate the drive rectification process when the detected tension the magnetic field exceeds a predetermined threshold, and can generate a blocking signal to prevent articulation of the end effector 6002, rectified by a sensor, until the detected magnetic field strength falls below a predetermined threshold.

FIGS. 112 and 113 show one form of a magnetic sensor 6226, which is a reed sensor. The reed switch may comprise an electric switch 6250 controlled by an applied magnetic field. A pair of contacts can be located on the tongues of ferrous metal in a hermetically insulated glass shell. The contacts may be normally open and close in the presence of a magnetic field, or may be normally closed and open in the presence of a magnetic field.

As shown in FIGS. 105 and 106, a method for controlling an end effector rectified by a sensor is described. Although a method for controlling an end effector rectified by a sensor is described herein with reference to FIGS. 105 and 106, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the method can be applied to any forms of an end effector rectified by a sensor as described herein. a document, for example, such as the forms shown in FIG.107-113. In one form, the method may include detecting strong proximal displacement of the surgical instrument 5810 using the first sensor 5826a. Surgical instrument 5810 may include an end effector 5802 that is rectified by a sensor. The doctor can pivotally rotate the end effector 5802, which is rectified by a sensor, during treatment. Upon completion of treatment, the physician may begin to remove the surgical instrument 5810 from the patient's body by moving the surgical instrument 5810 in the proximal direction. The proximal movement of the surgical instrument 5810 can be detected by the first sensor 5826a. In some forms, the first sensor 5826a may be an accelerometer configured to detect strong proximal displacement of the surgical instrument 5810. The method may further include generating a signal through the first sensor 5826a, which indicates the detection of strong proximal displacement. The signal may be transmitted by the first sensor 5826a to the controller of the hinge control engine 402, for example, such as a control circuit, for example, a control circuit 3702 shown in FIG. 82. Additional engine controllers are provided, described with respect to FIGS. 84, 114–116, and the like. The method may further include receiving, by the hinge control engine 402, a signal from the first sensor 5826a and activating the drive rectification process by the hinge control engine 402 to straighten the angle of articulation of the end effector 5802, rectified by the sensor, in response to the received signal. The drive rectification process can return the end effector 5802, rectified using a sensor, to the zero position of the articulated rotation.

In some forms, the method may further include detecting strong proximal displacement of the surgical instrument 5810 using a second sensor 5826b. In some forms, the second sensor 5826b may be a magnetic proximity sensor, for example, a Hall sensor or a reed switch. The second sensor 5826b may be configured to detect the distance between the second sensor 5826b and a fixed point, for example, a trocar 5858 or an external tube 5960. The method of controlling the end effector 5802 rectified by the sensor may further include generating a signal indicating the detection of strong proximal displacement using a second sensor 5826b. A second signal may be transmitted to the hinge control engine 402. The method may further include receiving the second signal hinge control engine 402 and activating the drive rectification process by the hinge control engine 402 to straighten the angle of articulation of the end effector 5802 rectified by the sensor. In some forms, the second sensor 5826b may generate a second signal independently of the first sensor 5826a.

In some forms, the first and second sensors 5826a, 5826b may function as additional means of checking the rectification process. For example, in some forms, both the first and second of sensors 5826a, 5826b may send a signal to the hinge control motor 402 to activate the rectification process. The signal from the first sensor 5826a or from the second sensor 5826b may cause the swivel control motor 402 to straighten the end effector 5802 rectified by the sensor. In some forms, the drive rectification process may not be performed until both signals from both the first and second of the sensors 5826a, 5826b are received. In some forms, the first sensor 5826a or the second sensor 5826b can independently activate the drive rectification process, but the process can be interrupted if a signal from both the first and the second of sensors 5826a, 5826b is not received within a specified period of time. For example, the drive rectification process may be triggered by a signal from the first sensor 5826a. If a signal from the second sensor 5826b is not received within a predetermined period of time, then the drive rectification process may be interrupted by the surgical instrument 5810.

In one form, a modular engine control platform can be used in various surgical instruments. For example, a modular control platform may be implemented by control circuit 3702. FIG. 114 shows one form of a modular engine control platform 6300 comprising a main controller 6306 and one or more pairs of an engine and a controller 6309a – 6309c. Platform 6300 may control one or more engines 6318a, 6318b, 6318c. Engines 6318a, 6318b, 6318c may be any motors used in a surgical instrument. For example, in some forms, one or more engines 6318a, 6318b, 6318c may correspond to one or more of a hinge engine 402, a starting engine 530, an end effector turning engine 560, and / or a barrel turning engine 610.

In various forms, the respective controllers 6306, 6309a – 6309c may be implemented using one or more processors (eg, processors implemented on control circuit 3702). The modular engine control platform 6300 may be suitable for controlling a surgical instrument with an engine, for example, the surgical instrument 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In various forms, the main controller 6306 may be mounted on a distal printed circuit board 810 or on a proximal printed circuit board 820. First the engine controller 6314a is operatively coupled to the first engine 6318a to provide one or more control signals to the first engine 6318a. The second engine control controller 6314b may be operatively connected to the second engine 6318b, and the third engine control controller 6314c may be operatively connected to the third engine 6318c. The motor controllers 6314a – 6314c are in electrical communication with the main controller 6306. The main controller 6306 provides control signals to the motor controllers 6314a – 6314c based on the main control process that controls one or more functions of the end effector 6302. The main control process may be a predetermined process , a user-defined process, or a process generated by a device.

In one form, the main control process can determine one or more surgical interventions performed by the surgical tool 10, which contain one or more functions of the barrel 30 and the end effector 102. For example, in one form, the main control process can determine the cutting and stapling operation of the surgical tool 10. . The cutting and bonding operation may comprise many functions of the surgical instrument 10, for example, such as a clamping function, a stapling function, a cutting function, and an expansion function. The user can mark the beginning of the cutting and bonding operation in any suitable way, for example, such as pressing a button or switch on the handle 20. Those skilled in the art will understand that any suitable method can be used to activate one or more functions of the surgical instrument 10.

In one form, when the doctor marks the start of the cutting and bonding operation, for example, by pressing a button on the handle 20, the main controller 6306 can generate a series of pilot signals and provide pilot signals to one or more engine controllers 6314a – 6314c. For example, the cutting and bonding operation may begin at time t ₀ . The main controller 6306 may generate a first pilot signal indicating that a clamping function is required. The first control signal may be transmitted to a first engine controller 6314a connected to a first engine 6318a configured to control the clamping movement of the end effector 6302. The first engine controller 6314a may in turn provide one or more signals to the first engine 6318a, activating the first engine 6318a to rotate the stop assembly 190 of the end effector 102 and clamp the tissue located between the stop assembly 190 and the cartridge 130. The main controller 6306 may request from the first motor controller 6314a to the status needle until the first motor controller 6314a indicates that the clamping operation is completed. At time t _{1, the} first engine controller 6314a may provide a signal to the main controller 6306 indicating that the clamping function is completed.

At time t _{2, a} second pilot signal may be transmitted from the main controller 6306 indicating that a stitching and cutting operation is required. A second pilot signal may be transmitted to a second engine controller 6314b coupled to the second engine 6318b. The second engine 6318b may be configured to control the proximal and distal movement of the cutting element 164 and / or the slide 170 located inside the end effector 102. The staple and cut control signal may cause the second engine controller 6314b to activate the second engine 6318b and advance the cutting element 164 and / or the slide 170 in the distal direction, causing the cassette 130 with brackets to release the staples, and the cutting element 164 to cut the fabric clamped in the stop assembly 190, as described in more detail above. At time t _{3, the} cutting element 164 reaches the most distal point, and the second engine controller 6314b may provide a signal to the main controller 6306 indicating that the stapling and cutting operation is completed. The second engine controller 6314b may automatically generate a control signal for the second movement of the cutting element 164 for the second engine 6318b until the cutting element 164 is fully extended.

After receiving a signal from the second engine controller 6314b at time t _{3, the} main controller 6306 may provide a third control signal to the first engine controller 6314a indicating that a release function is required. The first engine controller 6314a may generate a pilot for the first engine 6318a, causing the first engine 6318a to reverse the previously performed clamping operation by expanding the stop assembly 190. The release function may be performed by the first engine controller 6314a and the first engine 6318a simultaneously with the reverse movement of the second engine 6318b, which retracts the cutting element 164 to its original position. The use of the main controller 6306 and separate motor controllers 6314a, 6314b allows the surgical instrument 10 to simultaneously perform many operations without undue strain on the separate controllers 6306, 6314a, 6314b.

Motor controllers 6314a through 6314c may comprise one or more independent processes for monitoring and controlling surgical operations, such as, for example, moving a motor. In some forms, motor controllers 6314a through 6314c may be configured to operate with one or more control feedback mechanisms. For example, in some forms, motor controllers 6314a – 6314c may be implemented as feedback controllers, such as single input, single output (SISO) or multiple input multiple output (MIMO) controllers. In some forms, motor controllers 6314a – 6314c may operate as proportional-integral-differential (PID) controllers. The PID controller can work with control feedback, in which three tuning links are used: the proportional regulator link, the integral regulator link and the differential regulator link. The PID controller may include a control process configured to measure a given variable and compare the measured value of the given variable with the expected or set value of the given variable. The PID controller can adjust the control variable based on the difference between the measured value and the expected value of the given variable. In some forms, motor controllers 6314a through 6314c may include a PID speed controller. For example, the first engine controller 6314a may measure a predetermined variable, such as the position of the engine 6314a. The first engine controller 6314a may adjust a control variable, such as the speed of the engine 6314a, based on the difference between the measured position of the engine 6314a and the set or expected position of the engine 6314a.

In some forms, motor controllers 6314a through 6314c may be implemented as error detection controllers. The error detection controller may execute an error detection process. In some forms, the error detection controller may operate with a direct error recognition process comprising monitoring one or more sensors configured to directly display an error, which may be referred to as error detection based on signal processing. In some forms, the value provided by the sensor is compared with the expected value of the sensor based on a model of the surgical process controlled by the error detection controller, which may be called model-based error detection. Those skilled in the art will understand that a combination of error detection based on signal processing and model based error detection can be used in the engine controller.

In some forms, the motor controllers 6314a through 6314c may be configured as current / power limited controllers. A current / force limiting controller may be configured to limit the measured value, for example, the current supplied to the motor, or the force exerted by the motor to a predetermined value. For example, in one form, the first engine controller 6314a may be configured to limit the force exerted by the clamping operation to a predetermined amount. The force sensor can track the force exerted by the first engine 6318a, configured to control the clamping operation in a surgical instrument. If the amount of force measured by the first sensor corresponds to a predetermined value, then the first engine controller 6314a may shut down the first engine 6318a. In some forms, the motor controller 6314a – 6314c may be configured to monitor the current supplied to the 6318a – 6318c motor. The current used by the 6318a – 6318c motor can be an indicator of one or more functions of the 6318a – 6318c motor, such as the speed of the motor or the force exerted by the motor during a surgical operation. If the current generated by the 6318a – 6318c motor exceeds a predetermined threshold value, then the motor controller 6314a – 6314c may stop the motor to prevent injury to the patient or damage to the surgical instrument.

In some forms, engine controllers 6314a through 6314c may provide independent verification of the main control process performed by the main controller 6306. For example, engine controllers 6314a through 6314c may check whether the action requested by the main controller 6306 is valid before performing the requested action. In some forms, the engine controller 6314a – 6314c may use state information to verify that the action is valid. For example, in one form, the first engine controller 6314a may receive a command from the main controller 6306 to perform a cutting and stapling operation. The first motor controller 6314a may check the current state of the surgical instrument, for example, whether the abutment assembly 190 is in a locked position. If the status information corresponds to a condition acceptable for performing the cutting and stapling operation, then the first engine controller 6314a may perform the cutting and stapling operation. However, if the status information does not match the acceptable state for cutting and stitching, then the first motor controller 6314a may indicate an error in the main controller 6306 or in the main control process. Those skilled in the art will understand that engine controllers 6314a through 6314c may comprise one or more control processes and one or more types of control processes.

On FIG presents one form of a modular platform 6400 engine control, containing the main controller 6406 and four pairs of the engine and controller 6409a-6409d. The modular engine control platform 6400 may also be implemented by the control circuit 3702 described hereinabove, for example, using one or more processors. The modular engine control platform 6400 may be configured to control various engines. For example, the distal rotation motor 6418a may operate in a manner similar to that described herein with respect to the end effector rotation motor 560. The swivel motor 6418b may operate in the same manner as described herein with respect to the swivel motor 402. The proximal rotation engine 6418c may operate in the same manner as described herein with respect to the hinge engine 610. Operational engine 6418d may operate in a manner similar to that described herein with respect to starting engine 530.

The main controller 6406 may be electrically connected to one or more motor controllers 6414a to 6414d. The main controller 6406 can be connected to one or more motor controllers 6414a – 6414d using a wired or wireless connection. In some forms, engines 6418a – 6418d may include associated position encoder 6416a – 6416d engine encoders configured to provide a signal indicating the position of the engine barrel. In some forms, engine encoders 6416a – 6416d may not be available. In one form, the main controller 6406 may be configured to communicate with any number of engine controllers 6414a through 6414d, for example, one to ten engine controllers. In some forms, the main controller 6406 may be configured to communicate with one or more additional peripheral controllers (not shown), the peripheral controllers configured to control one or more non-powered surgical functions, such as, for example, ultrasound functions, electrosurgical functions, or any other suitable functions of the surgical instrument.

In one form, the main controller 6406 may synchronously communicate with motor controllers 6414a – 6414d. Communication coming from the main controller 6406 may include, for example, transmitting commands to execute a specific subroutine or function of the engine controller 6414a – 6414d, polling the engine controllers 6414a – 6414d to update their status, and also receiving feedback information from the 6414a– controllers 6414d engine. Synchronous communication may be a direct connection between the main controller 6406 and the motor controllers 6414a – 6414d, the interactions being time synchronized. For example, in the form shown in FIG. 114, the main controller 6406 may interact with each of the engine controllers 6414a to 6414d at predetermined time intervals. In another form, a token may be transmitted between engine controllers 6414a – 6414d, giving the engine controller 6414a – 6414d, which currently owns the token, the right to interact with the main controller 6406 for a predetermined period of time.

In one form, the main controller 6406 may perform the main control process. The main control process can track the input of the user, perform the operations of the surgical instrument 10, output feedback signals to the user, or perform any other functions of the surgical instrument 10. For example, in one form, the main controller 6406 can perform the main control process containing the cutting and bonding operation. In some forms, the main control process may provide control signals to each of the engine controllers 6414a to 6414d. Separate functions of engines 6418a – 6418d may be controlled by engine controllers 6414a – 6414d. In some forms, the main control process can activate or stop one or more engines 6418–6418d based on attaching or removing a modular surgical component, such as modular barrel 30 or working part 100. Main controller 6406 may provide control signals to motor controllers 6414a – 6414d and may Receive status signals from engine controllers 6414a – 6414d. Status signals may include, for example, a function completion signal, an error signal, an idle signal, or a feedback signal.

In some forms, the function signal may indicate, for example, the state of the action or completion of the function performed by the pairs from the motor and controller 6409a – 6409d. For example, a function signal may indicate that a clamping operation is in progress or that this operation is completed. The function signal may also indicate the result of the operation, for example, such as the amount of force applied to the tissue clamped during the clamping operation. The motor controller 6414a – 6414d may generate an error signal if the motor controller 6414a – 6414d detects an error of the associated motor 6418a – 6418d or an error upon completion of a surgical operation. The error signal may cause the main controller 6406 to generate an error signal for the operator, for example, a visual signal or an audio signal. The error signal may also cause the main controller 6406 to send control signals to the motor controllers 6414a – 6414d to stop all current functions being performed.

The idle signal can be sent by the motor controllers 6414a – 6414d to the main controller 6406 to indicate that the corresponding 6418a – 6418d motor is idle and can be used to perform the corresponding function of the surgical instrument 10. In one form, the idle signal can indicate that the 6418a – 6418d motor has performed function. For example, in one form, the first engine controller 6414a may receive a pilot signal from the main controller 6406 to perform a clamping operation. The first engine controller 6414a may convert the pilot from the main controller 6406 into one or more pilot signals for the engine 6418a. After the engine 6418a has performed the indicated function, the engine controller 6414a may transmit an idle signal to the main controller 6406, indicating that the engine 6418a has completed the specified function.

In various forms, motor controllers 6414a through 6414d may send feedback to a main controller 6406. One or more feedback devices (not shown) may be coupled to a main controller 6406 to transmit a feedback signal to an operator. The feedback signals received from the motor controllers 6414a – 6414d can be converted by the main controller 6406 into control signals for the feedback devices. In some forms, motor controllers 6414a through 6414d may transmit feedback signals directly to the feedback device.

In some forms, the synchronous interaction between the main controller 6406 and the motor controllers 6414a – 6414d may be interrupted by an override signal. The override signal may cause the main controller 6406 to cease synchronous interaction and communicate with the engine controller 6414a generating the override signal. In various forms, an override signal may be generated by the engine controller 6414a as a result of engine failure, user input, or based on a predetermined threshold in one or more feedback signals. The override signal can cause the main controller 6406 to send a signal to each of the engine controllers 6414a – 6414d to stop all 6418a – 6418d engines from working until the situation that caused the override signal is generated. In one form, the main controller 6406 may generate a signal for the feedback device to notify the operator of the redefinition signal.

On FIG presents one form of a dual-controller modular platform 6500 engine control. Platform 6500 may also be implemented by control circuit 3702, as described herein. The dual-controller modular engine control platform 6500 contains a main controller 6506, a slave controller 6507, and four pairs of the engine and controller 6509a – 6509d. Modular engine control platform 6400 may be configured to control engines 6518a, 6518b, 6518c, 6518c. For example, the distal rotation motor 6518a may operate in a manner similar to that described herein with respect to the end effector rotation motor 560. The swivel motor 6518b may operate in the same manner as described herein with respect to the swivel motor 402. The proximal rotation motor 6518c may operate in the same manner as described herein with respect to the swivel motor 610. Operating engine 6518d may operate in a manner similar to that described herein with respect to starting engine 530.

The modular engine control platform 6400 may be configured to control the hinge engine 402; starting engine 530; an end effector rotation motor, or a “distal rotation motor 560”; and a barrel rotation engine, or “proximal rotation engine 610”. Each of the main controller 6506 and the slave controller 6507 may be associated with a subset of the available motor controllers. For example, in the presented form, the main controller 6506 is connected to the first and second engine controllers 6526a, 6526b, and the slave controller 6507 is connected to the third and fourth engine controllers 6526c, 6526d. Master controller 6506 and slave controller 6507 may be in electrical communication. In some forms, the slave controller 6507 may be located on the distal printed circuit board 810 or on the proximal printed circuit board 820. The slave controller 6507 can reduce the load on the main controller 6506 by reducing the number of motor controllers 6526a through 6526d that the main controller 6506 must communicate with and which must control . The master controller 6506 and the slave controller 6507 may receive input signals 6508 from one or more controllers.

In one form, the main controller 6506 may provide pilot signals directly to the first engine controller 6526a and the second engine controller 6526. The master controller 6506 may also provide pilot signals to the slave controller 6507. The slave controller may provide pilot signals to the third engine controller 6526c and the fourth engine controller 6526d. By reducing the number of engine controllers 6526a – 6526d that the main controller 6506 needs to interrogate and manage, the dual-controller modular engine control platform 6500 can increase the response time or load more processing power of the main controller 6506 with other tasks. In one form, the main controller 6506 can execute the main control process, and the slave controller 6507 can execute an auxiliary control process to generate one or more signals for engine controllers 6526a-6526d based on input from the main controller 6506. In one form, the slave controller 6507 can receive control input signals from one or more user controls, such as for example a clamp button or a start switch. In one form, the master controller 6506 may communicate with one or more slave controllers 6507 and may not provide any control signals directly to the motor controllers 6526a – 6526d.

In one form, additional slave controllers 6507 may be added to the system to control additional motor controllers or surgical modules. In one form, the slave controller 6507 can only be used when there is a need for a given threshold number of motor controllers. For example, in one form shown in FIG. 115, four engine controllers 6526a-6526d are coupled to a dual-controller modular engine control platform 6500. Each of the main controller 6506 and the slave controller 6507 is associated with two motor controllers 6526a – 6526d. The shutdown of one or more engines, for example, by replacing the barrel 30 with another barrel requiring only two engines for articulation, can stop the slave controller 6507 because additional processing power of the slave controller 6507 is not required to reduce the load on the main controller 6506. In some In the form, stopping one or more engine controllers 6526a – 6526d may cause the remaining engine controllers to be assigned to the idle slave controller 6507. For example p, stop the third and fourth motors 6518c, 6518d can lead to the fact that the slave controller 6507 is idle. The second engine controller 6526b can be disconnected from the main controller 6506 and connected to the slave controller 6507 to reduce the computational load on the main controller 6506. One or more load balancing processes can be performed as part of the main control process to provide optimized control distribution between the main controller 6506 and one or more slave controllers 6507.

Returning to FIGS. 114-116, one can describe a method for controlling a modular surgical instrument 10 containing a plurality of motor controllers. Although a method for controlling a modular surgical instrument 10 is described with respect to FIGS. 114-116, those skilled in the art will understand that the method can be applied to any embodiment of a surgical instrument or to various control platforms described herein. The method may include generating by the main controller 6506 a main control process comprising one or more control signals. The method may further include transmitting the generated control signals from the main controller 6506 to one or more engine controllers 6526a – 6526d. Motor controllers 6526a through 6526d may receive transmitted pilot signals. In some forms, a subset of the pilot signals received by the first engine controller 6526a may comprise pilot signals transmitted by the main controller 6506 during a certain period of time during which the main controller 6506 and the first engine controller 6526a are in synchronous communication. The method may further include controlling, by engine controllers 6526a – 6526d, one or more associated engines 6518a – 6518d based on pilot signals from a main controller 6506.

In some forms, the method may include transmitting one or more control signals to the master controller 6507 by the master controller 6506. The slave controller 6507 may be in electrical communication with one or more engine controllers 6526c-6526d. The slave controller 6507 may execute an auxiliary control process, which is the generation of one or more control signals for the engine based on input signals received from the main controller 6506. The auxiliary control process may further comprise transmitting control signals for the engine by the slave controller 6507 to one or more electrically connected controllers 6526c – 6526d engine. The method may further include controlling, by the engine controllers 6526c – 6526d, one or more coupled engines in response to receiving control signals for the engine. In various forms, a portion of the generated pilot signals for the engine may be synchronously transmitted to each of the engine controllers 6526c – 6526d for a predetermined period of time.

On FIG presents one form of the main control process 6600, which can be performed by the main controller, for example such as the main controllers shown in FIG. 114-116, or any other suitable main controller. In one form, the surgical instrument 10 may comprise four motors, such as, for example, a swivel motor 402, a starting motor 530, an end effector rotation motor or a “distal rotation motor 560”, and a barrel rotation motor or “proximal rotation motor 610, as well as a joystick 842. Surgical instrument 10 may be configured to perform a distal rotation function, a gripping function, a clamping function, and a start function. The surgical instrument 10 may include one or more buttons for controlling various operations of the surgical instrument 10, for example, such as a home button, release button, capture button, clamp button, or start button. The surgical instrument 10 may further comprise an LED for transmitting to the user a visual feedback signal regarding the operation of the surgical instrument 10.

In some forms, when the surgical instrument 10 is activated, the main controller 6406 places the device in the main mode. In the presented main control process 6600, the main mode is the state 6602 articulated rotation. Articulated state 6602 may include activation of three or four available engines. Activated engines can control the rotation of the barrel 30 (e.g., the barrel rotation engine 610), the end effector 102 (e.g., the end effector rotation engine 560) and / or the articulation of the end effector 102 (e.g., the swivel engine 410). In the main articulated mode, joystick 842 can be active. In the articulated rotation state 6602, the joystick 842 can be used to control articulated rotation or the rotation of the barrel 30 and the end effector 102. The distal rotation function can be active (or available) when the gripping, clamping and starting functions are not available. The home button can also be activated in the ground state. The LED may glow green, indicating that the surgical instrument 10 is in a state in which the surgical instrument 10 can be safely moved.

The user can press the home button 6604, causing the surgical instrument 10 to return to its original state 6606, for example, the initial state in which the end effector 102 is aligned with the barrel 30 and the barrel 30 and the end effector 102 are returned to the zero rotation state. Initial state 6606 may be useful for moving from one operation to another, or it may allow the user to quickly change the orientation of the surgical instrument 10 during treatment. After reaching the initial state 6606, the main control process 6600 may return 6605 to the main state 6602 articulated rotation.

In one form, the end effector 102 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be detachably connected to the barrel 30, which allows different tools to be attached to the barrel 30. The barrel 30 can be detachably connected to the handle 20, which allows you to attach various trunks to the surgical instrument 10. In one form, the main controller 6406 may sense the separation 6608 of the end effector 102 or barrel 30 from the surgical instrument 10 and may prohibit the operation of the surgical instrument 10 until a new barrel or instrument is attached to the surgical instrument 10 and until the surgical instrument 10 reset 6606. After the main control process 6600 detects a new end effector 102 and returns to the initial state 6606, the main control process 6600 can go to the main 6602-being.

In one form, an end effector 102 may be attached to the surgical instrument 10. The end effector 102 may be configured to perform a grip function. The capture function may be the capture of a tissue site between the stop assembly 190 and the cartridge 130 of the end effector 102. The surgical instrument 10 may include a capture button to activate the capture function. When the user presses the capture button 6614, the surgical instrument 10 can enter the capture mode 6616, blocking the movement of the end effector 102, such as a turn or articulated rotation, relative to the barrel 30. The capture mode 6616 can activate the fourth engine (for example, the starting engine 530 ), forcing a portion of the end effector 102 to pinch a piece of tissue, for example, moving the stop assembly 190 from an open position to a closed position. The clamping button may be activated when the surgical instrument 10 enters the gripping state.

In some forms, the physician may press 6620 the clamping button, forcing the surgical instrument 10 to enter clamping mode 6622. In clamping mode 6622, the surgical instrument 10 may block the fourth motor to prevent the release of tissue during subsequent operation. Clamping mode 6622 can activate the start button located on the handle 20. After the surgical tool 10 has entered clamping mode 6622, the main controller 6406 can change the color of the LED to blue, indicating to the doctor that the tissue is clamped in the stop assembly 190 and that it is possible to start a surgical instrument 10 for performing a stapling and cutting operation.

The doctor may press the 6626 start button, forcing the surgical instrument 10 to enter the 6628 start mode. In trigger mode 6628, the surgical instrument 10 may deactivate motors configured to control the movement of the surgical instrument 10, such as, for example, motors 1-3. Starting mode 6628 may activate a fourth motor, which may be configured to control the stapling and cutting operation, as described above. The start button can be held pressed, causing the main controller 6406 to generate control signals for the engine controller associated with the fourth engine, in order to activate the stapling and cutting operation, forcing the cutting part 164 and / or the slide 170 to extend inside the cartridge 130 with brackets located in the end effector 102. During the starting sequence, the main controller 6406 can change the color of the LED to red, warning the doctor that the surgical instrument 10 is starting. The main controller 6406 can set the “trigger completed marker” to true, indicating that the surgical instrument has performed a trigger and cannot restart. The main controller 6406 or an engine controller associated with the fourth engine can automatically pull the cutting part 164 off when the cutting part 164 reaches the distal end of the end effector 102. After the cutting part 164 completes the return stroke and returns to its original position, the main control process 6600 can return 6630 to clamping state 6622.

The doctor can deactivate 6624 clamping state 6622 by pressing the clamping button. The main control process 6600 generates one or more pilot signals to return to the capture state 6616 after deactivating the clamping state 6622. The physician can then deactivate 6618 grip state 6616 and make the transition to articulated rotation state 6602 or any other suitable ground state. Those skilled in the art will understand that the main control process 6600 can be modified to fit any surgical operation or function that the surgical instrument 10 or any attached surgical module can perform. In some forms, the main control process 6600 may be automatically performed based on attached shafts, end effectors, or power modules.

In accordance with one general form, a surgical instrument is proposed comprising a handle assembly, which is configured to simultaneously and independently electrically generate at least two separate rotary control movements. The surgical instrument may further include an elongated barrel assembly operably interacting with the handle assembly to independently and simultaneously receive and transmit at least two separate rotary control movements to an end effector functionally connected to the elongated barrel assembly.

In accordance with another general form, a surgical instrument is proposed comprising a handle assembly, which is configured to simultaneously and independently generate at least three separate rotary control movements. The surgical instrument may further include an elongated stem assembly operably interacting with the handle assembly to independently and simultaneously receive and transmit at least three separate rotary control movements to an end effector functionally connected to the elongated stem assembly.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument is provided comprising a drive system that is configured to electrically generate a plurality of individual rotary control movements. The surgical instrument may further include an elongated stem assembly operably connected to the drive system in order to receive a first rotary control motion from it to rotate the elongated stem assembly about the axis of the stem. The elongated stem assembly can be adapted to receive and transmit a second rotary control motion from the drive system to a surgical end effector operably connected to the elongated stem assembly to cause the surgical end effector to rotate around the axis of the stem relative to the elongated stem assembly. The elongated barrel assembly can further be configured to receive and transmit a third rotary control motion from the drive system to the articulated joint that communicates with the elongated barrel assembly and the surgical end effector to pivotally rotate the surgical end effector around the hinge axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of the barrel .

In accordance with another general form, a hinge joint for a surgical instrument is proposed, which includes an elongated stem assembly and a drive system that is capable of generating and transmitting a plurality of rotary control movements to the elongated stem assembly. In at least one form, the articulation comprises a proximal articulation connected to the elongated stem assembly and a distal articulation connected to the proximal articulation and configured to interact with a surgical end effector. The first block of gears can functionally interact with the proximal part of the launch trunk of the elongated barrel assembly. The distal trigger shaft can functionally interact with the surgical end effector to transmit a pivotal trigger movement from the proximal trigger shaft to the surgical end effector, allowing articulation of the distal articulation relative to the proximal articulation. The second block of gears can functionally interact with the proximal part of the rotary shaft of the elongated trunk assembly in order to transmit the distal rotary control motion to the surgical end effector to force the surgical end effector to rotate relative to the elongated trunk assembly and at the same time provide articulation of the distal part of the joint relative to the proximal part of the joint .

In accordance with yet another general form, an articulated joint is proposed for a surgical instrument that has an elongated stem assembly and a drive system that is capable of generating and transmitting a plurality of rotary control movements to the elongated stem assembly. In at least one form, the articulation includes a proximal bracket connected to the elongated trunk assembly and a distal bracket articulated by a pin to the proximal bracket to selectively rotate about it around the hinge axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of the barrel formed by the elongated trunk assembly . The first block of gears may be supported in the zone of gears formed between the proximal and distal brackets so that no part of the first block of gears extends radially beyond any part of the articulation. The first block of gears can functionally interact with the proximal part of the launch trunk of the elongated barrel assembly. The distal trigger shaft can functionally interact with the surgical end effector to transmit a rotary trigger movement from the proximal trigger shaft to the surgical end effector, allowing the distal bracket to rotate relative to the proximal bracket. The second gear block can be supported in the gear zone so that no part of the first gear block extends radially beyond any part of the articulation. The second block of gears can functionally interact with the proximal part of the rotary shaft of the elongated trunk assembly in order to transmit the distal rotary control motion to the surgical end effector in order to force the surgical end effector to rotate relative to the elongated trunk assembly and at the same time provide articulation of the distal bracket relative to the proximal bracket.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument is proposed comprising a drive system that is configured to generate a plurality of rotary control movements. The elongated barrel assembly is operatively interacting with the drive system and may comprise an outer barrel segment operably interacting with the drive system to receive distal rotation control movements from it. The articulated rotation barrel can functionally interact with the drive system to receive pivoting movements of the articulated rotation from it. The elongated trunk assembly may further include a proximal segment of the launching trunk, which interacts functionally with the drive system to receive rotary starting movements from it. The surgical instrument may further include a hinge, which may include a proximal bracket connected to the elongated shaft assembly, and a distal bracket articulated by a pin to the proximal bracket to selectively rotate about it around the hinge axis, essentially perpendicular to the axis of the shaft formed by the elongated shaft assembly the trunk. The node of the connecting element can be joined with the possibility of rotation with the distal bracket and can be made with the possibility of attachment to the surgical end effector. The distal segment of the trigger shaft can be functionally supported by the node of the connecting element and can be configured to interact with a portion of the drive shaft of the surgical end effector. The first block of gears can functionally interact with the proximal segment of the launch trunk and the distal segment of the launch barrel to transmit rotary trigger movements from the proximal segment of the launch barrel to the distal segment of the launch barrel, while allowing the distal bracket to be selectively rotated relative to the proximal bracket. The second block of gears can functionally interact with the proximal rotary shaft to transmit the control movements of the distal rotation to the node of the connecting element while allowing selective rotation of the distal bracket relative to the proximal bracket. The hinge drive connecting plate may interact with the hinge barrel and the distal bracket, and its movements may be limited by axial movement relative to the hinge joint in response to the application of hinge rotation movements to the hinge shaft.

In accordance with yet another general form, there is provided a hinge cover that is supported in an elongated barrel assembly of a surgical instrument operably connected to a surgical end effector comprising at least one end effector conductor. In at least one form, the lid is a non-conductive hollow casing having an open distal end and an open proximal end, and an articulation receiving passage extending between them and intended to introduce an articulated articulation. The hollow casing is designed to allow parts of the articulated joint to selectively pivotally rotate relative to each other and essentially enclose these parts within themselves. At least one electrically conductive path extends from the distal end of the hollow casing to the proximal end of the hollow casing. Each of the at least one electrically conductive path has a distal end portion electrically connected to a corresponding end effector conductor when the end effector is electrically connected to an elongated barrel assembly, and a proximal end portion electrically connected to a corresponding trunk conductor in an elongated assembly the trunk.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument is proposed comprising an elongated stem assembly that includes at least one electrical conductor of the stem as well as an articulation. In at least one form, the articulation comprises a proximal portion of the articulation connected to an elongated stem assembly. The distal part of the joint is movably connected with the proximal part of the joint for selective articulation with respect to it. The node of the connecting element is rotatably connected to the distal part of the joint for the purpose of selective rotation relative to it. The node of the connecting element can be made with the possibility of detachable connection with a surgical end effector and the formation of an electrically conductive path of the connecting element from the conductor of the end effector in the end effector to the articulation. The surgical instrument may further include an articulated conductor in contact with an electrically conductive path of the connecting member that intersects the articulated joint and is in contact with a corresponding trunk conductor to form an electrically conductive path between them.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument is provided comprising a control system that comprises at least one electrical control component. The surgical instrument further includes an elongated stem assembly that has an electrical trunk conductor operatively coupled to at least one of the electrical control components. The surgical instrument may further include an articulation that includes a proximal bracket connected to an elongated shaft assembly. The distal bracket is rotatably connected with the proximal bracket for the purpose of selective rotational movement relative to it. The surgical instrument may further include a connector assembly connected to the distal bracket, and a surgical end effector detachably connected to the connector assembly. The surgical end effector may include an end effector conductor that is electrically contacted with an electrically conductive path of the connecting element formed in the node of the connecting element when the surgical end effector is connected to the node of the connecting element. The articulated conductor may cross the articulated joint and be in electrical contact with the electrically conductive path through the connecting member assembly and the barrel conductor.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument is proposed comprising a handle assembly with which an elongated stem assembly is operatively connected and which is operably connected to a surgical end effector. The engine is supported by the handle assembly and is configured to apply rotary motion to one of the elongated barrel assembly and the surgical end effector attached to it. The control unit with a rotary handle is functionally supported on the handle unit and communicates with the engine in such a way that when a part of the actuator of the control unit with the rotary handle rotates in the first direction, the engine feeds a rotational movement to one of the elongated barrel and end effector units in the first direction, and when part of the actuator rotates in the second direction, the engine feeds a pivoting movement to one of the elongated barrel assembly and the end effector in the second direction .

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument is proposed comprising a handle assembly with which an elongated stem assembly is rotatably connected and which is operably attached to a surgical end effector. The engine is supported by the handle assembly and is configured to apply rotary motion to the elongated barrel assembly for selective rotation about the axis of the barrel. The surgical instrument further includes a control unit with a rotary handle, which includes an actuator element with a rotary handle, pivotally supported relative to the handle assembly. The first magnet is supported on an actuator element with a rotary handle, and the second magnet is supported on an actuator element with a rotary handle. The fixed sensor is located centrally between the first and second magnets when the actuator element with the rotary handle is in the inactive position. The fixed sensor communicates with the engine in such a way that when the actuator with the rotary handle rotates in the first direction, the engine feeds the rotational motion to the elongated barrel assembly in the first direction, and when the actuator element with the rotary handle rotates in the second direction, the engine feeds the rotational motion in node elongated barrel in the second direction.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical tool is provided comprising a handle assembly with which the elongated barrel assembly is rotatably connected and which is operably attached to the surgical end effector so that the end effector can selectively rotate around the axis of the stem relative to the elongated assembly the trunk. The engine is supported by the handle assembly and is configured to apply rotary motion to the end effector or the connecting part of the elongated barrel assembly to which the end effector connects to selectively rotate around the axis of the barrel. The surgical instrument further includes a control unit with a rotary handle, which includes an actuator element with a rotary handle, pivotally supported relative to the handle assembly. The first and second magnets are supported on an actuator element with a rotary handle. The fixed sensor is located centrally between the first and second magnets when the actuator element with the rotary handle is in the inactive position. The fixed sensor communicates with the engine in such a way that when the actuator element with the rotary knob rotates in the first direction, the engine feeds the rotational motion to the end effector or the connecting part in the first direction, and when the actuator element with the rotary handle rotates in the second direction, the engine feeds swiveling movement to the end effector or connecting part in the second direction.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument is proposed comprising a housing in which a plurality of engines are mounted. The surgical instrument further includes a joystick control unit that includes a first switch assembly supported by the housing to be movable and includes a joystick mounted thereto so that rotational movement of the joystick relative to the first switch assembly results in at least one corresponding control signal to at least one of its associated engines. The joystick assembly further includes a second switch assembly comprising a first sensor and a second sensor configured to move with the first switch assembly such that moving the second sensor relative to the first sensor transmits at least one other control signal to at least one more related engines.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument is proposed that includes a handle assembly equipped with an elongated barrel assembly that is rotatably supported relative to it. The proximal rotation engine is supported by the handle assembly and is configured to apply proximal pivotal movements to the elongated barrel assembly, which causes the elongated barrel assembly to rotate relative to the handle assembly about the axis of the barrel. The surgical end effector is functionally connected to the node of the elongated trunk and is intended for surgical intervention when at least one starting motion is applied to it. The starting engine is supported by the handle assembly and is configured to apply starting movements to a portion of the elongated barrel assembly for transmission to the surgical end effector. The surgical instrument further includes a joystick control unit, which comprises a first switch assembly supported by the handle assembly and can be moved so that pivotal movement of the joystick relative to the first switch assembly results in at least one corresponding pilot signal to the engine of proximal rotation. The joystick control unit further includes a second switch unit, which comprises a first sensor and a second sensor configured to move with the first switch unit so that moving the second sensor relative to the first sensor transmits at least one other control signal to the starting engine.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument is proposed that includes a handle assembly equipped with an elongated barrel assembly that is rotatably supported relative to it. The surgical instrument further includes an articulation that comprises a proximal articulation connected to the elongated stem assembly and a distal articulation connected to the proximal articulation. The hinge engine is supported by the handle assembly and is configured to apply articulated rotation movements to the articulation, which causes the distal part of the articulation to move relative to the proximal part of the articulation. The surgical end effector is functionally connected to the node of the elongated trunk and is intended for surgical intervention when at least one starting motion is applied to it. The starting engine is supported by the handle assembly and is configured to apply starting movements to a portion of the elongated barrel assembly for transmission to the surgical end effector. The surgical instrument further includes a joystick control unit that comprises a first switch assembly supported by the handle assembly and can be moved so that rotational movement of the joystick relative to the first switch assembly results in at least one corresponding pilot signal to the hinge engine. The joystick assembly further includes a second switch assembly comprising a first sensor and a second sensor configured to move with the first switch assembly such that moving the second sensor relative to the first sensor transmits at least one other control signal to the starting engine.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument for treating tissue is provided. The tool contains at least one processor and functionally associated memory, at least one engine associated with the processor, and at least one activating device. The processor is programmed to receive from the removable working part of the first variable describing the removable tool. The processor is also programmed to use the first variable in the tool control algorithm. In addition, the processor is programmed to receive an input control signal from an activating device and to control at least one engine for operating a surgical instrument in combination with a removable instrument, according to an instrument control algorithm taking into account the input control signal.

In accordance with an additional general form, the processor can be programmed to receive an instrument control algorithm from a removable instrument describing the operation of a surgical instrument in combination with a removable instrument. The processor can also be programmed to receive an input control signal from an activating device and to control at least one engine for operation of a surgical instrument in combination with a removable instrument, according to the instrument control algorithm taking into account the input control signal.

In accordance with yet another general form, a surgical instrument configured to relay a low power signal from an end effector to a remote device can be described. A surgical instrument may include a handle, a trunk distally directed from the handle, and an end effector attached to the distal end of the barrel. A sensor may be located in the end effector. The sensor can generate a signal reflecting the state of the end effector. A transmitter may be placed in the end effector. The transmitter may transmit a first power level signal from the sensor. The signal may be received by a relay station located in the handle of a surgical instrument. The relay station is configured to amplify and relay a signal with a second power level, the second power level being higher than the first power level.

In accordance with a further general form, a relay station for relaying a signal from an end effector of a surgical instrument to a remote device can be described. The relay station comprises a receiver configured to receive a signal from a sensor located in the end effector. The signal is transmitted at the first power level. The relay station further comprises an amplifier configured to amplify the signal to a second power level. The transmitter is configured to transmit a signal with a second power level. The second power level is higher than the first power level.

In accordance with the general form, a method for relaying a signal received from an analysis module in an end effector can be described. The method includes generating, by means of a sensor, a signal reflecting the state of the surgical end effector. The sensor is located in the end effector. The method further includes transmitting, by a transmitter, a first signal with a first power level and receiving a transmitted signal by a receiver at a relay station. The first signal is amplified by the relay station using an amplifier to a high power signal having a second power level. The second power level is higher than the first power level. A high power signal is transmitted by a relay station with a second power level. A high power signal is received by a remote device, such as a video monitor. The video monitor displays a graphical representation of the state of the surgical end effector.

Some parts of the above are presented in the form of methods and symbolic representations of operations with data bits inside computer memory. These descriptions and representations are the means that specialists in this field use to most effectively convey the essence of their work to other specialists in this field. In this case, and essentially a method is understood to mean an independent sequence of actions (commands) leading to the desired result. By actions are meant those that require physical manipulations with physical quantities. Typically, although not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical, magnetic, or optical signals that can be stored, transmitted, combined, compared, or otherwise disposed of. Sometimes, mainly due to widespread use, it is convenient to call these signals bits, values, elements, symbols, letters, terms, numbers, etc. In addition, it is also sometimes convenient to name some configurations of actions that require physical manipulations with physical quantities, modules or code devices, without losing the degree of generalization.

Some aspects of the present invention include process steps and instructions described herein in the form of a method. It should be noted that the process steps and commands of the present invention can be embodied in the form of software, firmware, or hardware, and when implemented in the form of software, they can be downloaded to install and work with them on different platforms using a variety of operating systems.

The present invention also relates to a device for performing the operations described herein. This device can be specially created for the required purposes, or it can be a general-purpose computer, selectively activated or reconfigured using a computer program that is stored in the computer. Such a computer program may be stored on media readable by a computer, such as (without limitation) any type of disk, including floppy disks, optical disks, CD-ROM disks, magneto-optical disks, read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM) , EPROM, EEPROM magnetic or optical cards, specialized integrated circuits (ASICs), or any type of media suitable for storing electronic commands and each connected to the computer's system bus. In addition, the computers and computer systems referred to in this description may include a single processor or may be configurations based on multiprocessor circuits to increase computing power.

The methods and displays presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other device. You can also use various general-purpose systems with programs that are consistent with the ideas presented in this document, or it may be convenient to design a more specialized device to perform the required actions. The required structure for various similar systems will be apparent from the foregoing description. In addition, the present invention is not described with reference to any particular programming language. It should be understood that various programming languages can be used to implement the ideas of the present invention, as described herein, and any references to specific programming languages mentioned above are provided to describe the implementation and the best use of the present invention.

In various forms, a surgical instrument is described configured to relay a low power signal from an end effector to a remote device. A surgical instrument may include a handle, a trunk distally directed from the handle, and an end effector attached to the distal end of the barrel. A sensor may be located in the end effector. The sensor can generate a signal reflecting the state of the end effector. A transmitter may be placed in the end effector. The transmitter may transmit a first power level signal from the sensor. The signal may be received by a relay station located in the handle of a surgical instrument. The relay station is configured to amplify and relay a signal with a second power level, the second power level being higher than the first power level.

In various forms, a relay station is described for relaying a signal from an end effector of a surgical instrument to a remote device. The relay station comprises a receiver configured to receive a signal from a sensor located in the end effector. The signal is transmitted at the first power level. The relay station further comprises an amplifier configured to amplify the signal to a second power level. The transmitter is configured to transmit a signal with a second power level. The second power level is higher than the first power level.

In various forms, a method for relaying a signal received from an analysis module in an end effector is described. The method includes generating, by means of a sensor, a signal reflecting the state of the surgical end effector. The sensor is located in the end effector. The method further includes transmitting, by a transmitter, a first signal with a first power level and receiving a transmitted signal by a receiver at a relay station. The first signal is amplified by the relay station using an amplifier to a high power signal having a second power level. The second power level is higher than the first power level. A high power signal is transmitted by a relay station with a second power level. A high power signal is received by a remote device, such as a video monitor. The video monitor displays a graphical representation of the state of the surgical end effector.

In various forms, an end effector rectified by a sensor is described. The end effector, rectified by means of a sensor, can be an end effector connected to the barrel by articulation. The end effector can be made with the possibility of articulated rotation at an angle with respect to the barrel. The sensor may be located on the end effector, rectified by the sensor, for example on the barrel or on the end effector. The sensor is configured to detect strong proximal displacement of the surgical instrument. When a strong proximal movement is detected, the sensor can generate a signal that controls the engine to straighten the end effector relative to the trunk.

In various forms, a surgical instrument is described comprising an end effector rectified by a sensor. A surgical instrument may include a handle. The barrel can distally pass from the handle. An engine may be located inside the handle to control the articulation of the surgical instrument. The articulated end effector is located at the distal end of the barrel. The sensor can be located in the handle, on the barrel or on the end effector. The sensor may be configured to detect strong proximal displacement of the surgical instrument. When the sensor detects a strong proximal displacement, it can activate the drive rectification process, causing the motor to straighten the articulated end effector. In some forms, a plurality of sensors may provide additional verification of the rectification process.

In various forms, a method is described for working with a surgical instrument comprising an end effector rectified by a sensor. The method may include detecting, with a first sensor, the proximal displacement of the surgical instrument. The first sensor can be placed in any suitable part of the surgical instrument, for example, in a handle, a barrel or an end effector. The first sensor may be an accelerometer, a magnetic sensor, or any other suitable type of sensor. The sensor may generate a signal indicating the detection of strong proximal displacement. The method may further include the engine receiving a generated signal from the first sensor. The motor can straighten the angle of articulation of the motor-driven articulated end effector in response to a received signal. The second sensor may generate a second signal to provide additional verification.

In various forms, the present description relates to a surgical instrument with an electric motor containing a modular engine control platform. The main controller may perform the main control process to control one or more operations of the surgical instrument. The first engine controller and the second engine controller may be operatively connected to the main controller. A first engine may be coupled to the first engine controller, and a second engine may be coupled to the second engine controller. The main control process can generate control signals for the first and second engine controllers. The first and second engine controllers can control the first and second engines in response to pilot signals. In some forms, the modular engine control system may comprise a slave controller configured to control one or more engine controllers based on one or more control signals received by the slave controller from the main controller.

In various forms, a modular engine control system may comprise one or more engine controllers, each of which is associated with an engine. One or more motor controllers can communicate with the main controller. The main controller may be configured to provide control signals to the engine controllers during the main control process. Motor controllers can control their associated motors in response to received pilot signals. In some forms, one or more motor controllers and associated motors may be housed within a handle configured to receive a modular barrel, modular end effector, and modular power source. The handle can provide interaction between the engines and the modular barrel and end effector.

In various forms, a surgical instrument may comprise a modular engine control system. A surgical instrument may comprise a main controller. A surgical instrument may be configured to receive modular surgical components, such as a modular barrel and a working part. A surgical instrument may have one or more motors and associated motor controllers installed therein. Motor controllers can be functionally connected to motors. Engines may be configured to control one or more movements of an attached barrel or working portion. The main controller and motor controllers may be in electrical communication. The main controller may be configured to supply one or more control signals to the engine controllers during the main control process. Motor controllers can control motors in response to received pilot signals.

In various forms, a method for controlling a surgical instrument with an electric motor is described. The method may include generating one or more control signals by the main controller. The first pilot signal may be transmitted to the first engine controller configured to control the first engine. The first engine controller may control the first engine in response to a first pilot signal received from the main controller. The second pilot signal may be transmitted to a second engine controller configured to control the second engine. The second engine controller may control the second engine in response to a second control signal received from the main controller. In some forms, a second pilot may be generated by the slave controller.

In accordance with one general form, a surgical instrument is provided comprising a drive motor and a drive member configured to be moved by the drive motor along an ejection stroke between the initial position and the position of the end of the beat. The position of the end of the measure passes between the first position and the second position. The mechanical stop can be located in the position of the end of the cycle or near it and can be made with the possibility of increasing resistance to movement of the drive element along the push cycle from the first position to the second position. The mechanical stop may comprise a shock absorber and a damping element. The shock absorber may be configured to move from a first position to a second position and may be configured to contact a drive element in a first position. The quenching element may be operatively connected to the shock absorber and may be configured to increase resistance to movement of the drive element from the first position to the second position. The quenching element may be configured to slow down the drive element before the drive element moves to the second position. In one form, the quenching element may be compressible to incrementally increase resistance to movement of the drive element between the first position and the second position. The quenching element may in one form comprise a spring. Shock absorbers can have contact surfaces, the size of which complements the surface of the drive element in contact with them in the first position.

In one form, the control system is configured to detect a surge of current associated with an increase in resistance to movement of the drive element. The control system can monitor the voltage supplied to the drive motor in order to detect a surge in current. The surge may be a predetermined threshold current. The predetermined threshold current may be at least one predetermined differential of the threshold current for at least one predetermined period of time. If the control system detects a surge current, power to the drive motor may be interrupted. In one form, the mechanical stop may further comprise a hard stop that can prevent the drive member from moving beyond the second position.

In accordance with one general form, a mechanical stop has been proposed for use in a surgical instrument to generate a detectable surge in current associated with an electromechanical stop. For example, a mechanical stop may be located at or near the end of a stroke associated with a push stroke of a drive member. The position of the end of the measure may extend between the first position and the second position. A mechanical stop may comprise one or more shock absorbers and one or more damping elements. Shock absorbers may be configured to move from a first position to a second position and may be configured to contact a drive member in a first position. The damping elements can be functionally connected to the shock absorbers and can be configured to increase the resistance to movement of the drive element from the first position to the second position in order to generate a current surge. The extinguishing elements may be arranged to slow down the drive element before the drive element moves to the second position. One or more damping elements can be made compressible to increase the resistance to movement of the drive element between the first position and the second position. One or more damping elements can also be made with the possibility of compression and may contain at least one spring. Shock absorbers can have contact surfaces, the size of which complements the surface of the drive element in contact with them in the first position. Surge associated with increased resistance can be detected by a control system associated with an electromechanical surgical instrument. The control system may be configured to monitor the voltage associated with the power supply to the drive motor, and interrupt the power supply to the drive motor when the current surge contains at least one predetermined threshold current. At least one threshold current may be a current differential for at least one predetermined period of time. In one form, the mechanical stop further comprises a hard stop to prevent the drive member from moving beyond the second position.

The devices described herein can be disposed of after a single use, or can be performed multiple times. However, in any case, the device can be restored for re-use after at least one application. Recovery may include any combination of the steps of disassembling the device, subsequent cleaning or replacement of specific parts and subsequent assembly. In particular, the device can be disassembled and any number of specific parts or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. After cleaning and / or replacing specific parts, the device can be reassembled for subsequent use either in the restoration workshop or by the surgical team immediately before the surgery. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various techniques for disassembling, cleaning, replacing, and reassembling can be used to rebuild the device. The use of such techniques, as well as the resulting reconditioned device, are entirely included in the scope of this application.

Preferably, the invention described herein is processed before use in a surgical operation. First, the resulting new or used tool is cleaned if necessary. Then the instrument can be sterilized. According to one sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic bag or Tyvek (TYVEK) material. The container with the instrument is then placed in a radiation field that is capable of penetrating into the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays or fast electrons. Radiation kills bacteria on the instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument can then be stored in a sterile container. Sealed containers keep the instrument sterile until opened in a medical facility.

Any patent, publication or other description material that is fully or partially incorporated herein by reference is an integral part of the document only to the extent that they do not contradict the existing definitions, statements or other description material presented in the present description. Thus, and to the extent necessary, the description, expressly presented in this document, prevails over any information that contradicts it in the material incorporated herein by reference. Any material or part thereof, indicated as incorporated herein by reference, but contrary to existing definitions, statements or other description materials set forth herein, will be included in this document only to the extent that between the included material and the existing description material no contradictions arise.

Although examples of industrial designs are provided in the description of the present invention, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of the present description. Therefore, it is intended that the present application cover all possible variations, methods of applying or adapting the present invention using its general principles. In addition, this application covers such deviations from the present description that fall under the well-known or generally accepted practice in the field to which the present invention relates.

Claims (53)

1. A surgical instrument containing: housing; many engines supported by the body; joystick control unit containing: the first switch assembly supported by the housing and configured to move relative to the housing and including a joystick mounted on it so that the rotational movement of the joystick relative to the first switch assembly results in the transmission of at least one corresponding control signal to at least one of related engines; and a second switch assembly comprising: first sensor; and a second sensor configured to move with the first node of the switches relative to the housing so that the movement of the second sensor relative to the first sensor transmits at least one other control signal to at least one of its associated motors. 2. The surgical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the first switch assembly is axially selectively moved axially by the user from the inactive position, in which the second switch is not activated and the other engine is deactivated, to the fully activated position, in which the other engine is fully activated. 3. The surgical instrument of claim 2, wherein the first switch assembly is displaced to an inactive position when the user stops applying axial movement to the first switch assembly. 4. The surgical instrument of claim 3, wherein the first switch assembly includes a third switch that is activated when the first switch assembly moves to a fully activated position, the third switch retaining the transmission of at least one other pilot signal to another of the engines when the user has stopped applying axial movement to the first switch node, and stops transmitting at least one other pilot when the user has applied another axial e move to the first switch assembly to return it to the fully activated position. 5. The surgical instrument according to claim 1, in which the housing comprises a handle assembly including a pistol grip, and wherein the first switch assembly is supported to move the pistol grip. 6. The surgical instrument according to claim 1, comprising: a handle assembly comprising said body; an elongated barrel assembly rotatably supported relative to a handle assembly; a proximal rotation engine supported by the handle assembly and configured to apply proximal pivotal movements to the elongated barrel assembly, which causes the elongated barrel assembly to rotate relative to the handle assembly about the axis of the barrel; a surgical end effector, functionally connected to the node of the elongated trunk and configured to perform surgical intervention when at least one starting motion is applied to it; a starting engine supported by the handle assembly and configured to apply starting movements to a portion of the elongated barrel assembly for transmission to the surgical end effector; and said joystick control unit, wherein rotational movement of the joystick relative to the first node of the switches leads to the transmission of at least one corresponding control signal to the proximal rotation motor; but the movement of the second sensor relative to the first sensor leads to the transmission of at least one other control signal to the starting engine. 7. The surgical instrument according to claim 6, further comprising: articulation containing: the proximal part of the joint connected to the node of the elongated trunk; and the distal part of the joint connected with the possibility of moving with the proximal part of the joint, and wherein the surgical instrument further comprises: a hinge engine supported by a handle assembly and adapted to apply articulated rotation movements to the articulation causing the distal part of the articulation to move relative to the proximal part of the articulation, wherein the rotational movement of the joystick relative to the first switch assembly causes at least one corresponding control signal to be transmitted to at least at least one of the proximal rotation engine and the hinge engine. 8. The surgical instrument of claim 6, wherein the end effector is selectively rotatable relative to the elongated barrel assembly using a distal rotation engine functionally supported by the handle assembly, and wherein the rotational movement of the joystick relative to the first switch assembly results in at least one corresponding a pilot signal to at least one of a proximal rotation engine and a distal rotation engine. 9. The surgical instrument of claim 7, wherein the end effector is selectively rotatable relative to the elongated barrel assembly using a distal rotation engine functionally supported by the handle assembly, and wherein the rotational movement of the joystick relative to the first switch assembly results in at least one corresponding a pilot signal to at least one of a proximal rotation engine, a hinge engine, and a distal rotation engine. 10. The surgical instrument according to claim 6, in which the first node of the switches is arranged to selectively move axially when the user applies axial movement from an inactive position to it, in which the second switch is not activated, and the starting engine is deactivated to a fully activated position in which the starting motor is fully activated. 11. The surgical instrument of claim 10, wherein the first switch assembly shifts to an inactive position when the user stops applying axial movement to the first switch assembly. 12. The surgical instrument of claim 11, wherein the first switch assembly includes a third switch that is activated when the first switch assembly is moved to a fully activated position, the third switch retaining the transmission of at least one other pilot signal to the starting engine when the user has stopped application of axial movement to the first node of the switches, and the third switch stops transmitting at least one other control signal to the starting igatelyu by applying different axial movement to the first node switches back to the first switch node in a fully activated position. 13. The surgical tool according to claim 10, in which the rotation speed of the starting engine depends on the speed of application of axial motion to the first node of the switches. 14. The surgical instrument of claim 6, wherein the surgical end effector comprises an endoscopic divider comprising: a cassette with surgical staples, functionally supporting many surgical staples; emphasis made with the possibility of selective movement relative to the cassette with surgical staples; and a tissue-cutting element configured to axially move inside a cassette with surgical staples in response to starting movements applied to it by a starting engine. 15. The surgical instrument of claim 14, wherein the initial axial movement of the first switch assembly in the activation direction from the non-activated position causes the cutting tissue element to apply a closing motion to the abutment without cutting any tissue trapped between the abutment and the cassette with surgical staples, and further axial movement of the first node of the switches in the activation direction leads to the movement of the distally cutting tissue element through the cassette with surgical staples with cutting and stitching tissue captured between the anvil and the cartridge with surgical staples. 16. The surgical instrument of claim 15, wherein the speed at which the cutting tissue member is ejected distally through the cassette with surgical staples depends on the speed at which the first switch assembly moves from an inactive position to a fully activated position. 17. The surgical instrument of claim 6, wherein the handle assembly comprises a handle body forming a pistol handle, and wherein the first switch assembly is supported to be moved by the pistol handle. 18. A surgical instrument according to claim 1, comprising: a handle assembly comprising said body; an elongated barrel assembly rotatably supported relative to a handle assembly; articulation containing: the proximal part of the joint connected to the node of the elongated trunk; and the distal part of the joint connected with the possibility of moving with the proximal part of the joint, and wherein the surgical instrument further comprises: the hinge engine supported by the handle assembly and configured to apply articulated rotation movements to the articulation, which causes the distal part of the articulation to move relative to the proximal part of the articulation; a surgical end effector, functionally connected to the node of the elongated trunk and configured to perform surgical intervention when at least one starting motion is applied to it; a starting engine supported by the handle assembly and configured to apply starting movements to a portion of the elongated barrel assembly for transmission to the surgical end effector; and said joystick control unit, wherein the rotational movement of the joystick relative to the first switch unit results in the transmission of at least one corresponding control signal to the hinge engine; but the movement of the second sensor relative to the first sensor leads to the transmission of at least one other control signal to the starting engine. 19. The surgical instrument of claim 18, wherein the end effector is selectively rotatable relative to the elongated barrel assembly using a distal rotation engine functionally supported by the handle assembly, and wherein the rotational movement of the joystick relative to the first switch assembly results in at least one corresponding pilot signal to at least one of the hinge engine and the distal rotation engine. 20. The surgical instrument of claim 18, wherein the surgical end effector comprises an endoscopic divider comprising: a cassette with surgical staples, functionally supporting many surgical staples; emphasis made with the possibility of selective movement relative to the cassette with surgical staples; and a tissue-cutting element configured to axially move inside a cassette with surgical staples in response to starting movements applied to it by a starting engine.

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