Surgical instruments with various alignment features and methods for improved disassembly and assembly

Abstract

A surgical instrument includes an end effector transitionable between deactivation and activation, the end effector configured to transmit energy to tissue, and a proximal body attached to the end effector. The proximal body includes an electrical component that can assist the end effector, a first shield, and a second shield that can be coupled with the first shield to cooperatively define a hollow interior that houses the electrical component. The proximal body also includes a first restriction feature and a second restriction feature associated with the first shield and the second shield, respectively. The first restriction feature and the second restriction feature may be coupled together to cooperatively align the first shroud and the second shroud. The first restraining feature and the second restraining feature are selectively disengageable to allow the first shroud and the second shroud to be discoupled from each other and to expose the electrical component within the hollow interior.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Many ultrasonic surgical instruments include an end effector having a blade element that vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies to cut and / or seal tissue (e.g., by denaturing proteins in tissue cells). These instruments include one or more piezoelectric elements that convert electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations that are transmitted along an acoustic waveguide to the blade element. Examples of ultrasonic surgical instruments and related concepts are disclosed in the following documents: U.S. Publication No. 2006 / 0079874, entitled “TissuePad for Use with an Ultrasonic Surgical Instrument,” published on April 13, 2006 (now abandoned), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Publication No. 2007 / 0191713, entitled “Ultrasonic Device for Cutting and Coagulating,” published on August 16, 2007 (now abandoned), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and U.S. Publication No. 2008 / 0200940, entitled “Ultrasonic Device for Cutting and Coagulating,” published on August 21, 2008 (now abandoned), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Some instruments are operable to seal tissue by applying radiofrequency (RF) electrosurgical energy to the tissue. Examples of such devices and related concepts are disclosed in the following documents: U.S. Patent No. 7,354,440, entitled "Electrosurgical Instrument and Method of Use," issued on April 8, 2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 7,381,209, entitled "Electrosurgical Instrument," issued on June 3, 2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] Some instruments are capable of applying both ultrasonic energy and RF electrosurgical energy to tissue. Examples of such instruments are described in the following documents: U.S. Patent No. 9,949,785, entitled “Ultrasonic Surgical Instrument with Electrosurgical Feature”, issued on April 24, 2018, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 8,663,220, entitled “Ultrasonic Electrosurgical Instruments”, issued on March 4, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 10,835,307, entitled “Modular Battery Powered Handheld Surgical Instrument Containing Elongated Multi-Layered Shaft”, issued on November 17, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and U.S. Patent No. 10,835,307, entitled “Modular Battery Powered Handheld Surgical Instrument Containing Elongated Multi-Layered Shaft”, issued on January 25, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. No. 11,229,471 for "Tissue Characterization", the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0004] In some scenarios, it may be preferred to have the surgical instrument directly grasped and manipulated by one or more hands of one or more human operators.In addition or as an alternative, it may be preferred to have the surgical instrument controlled via a robotic surgical system. Examples of robotic surgical systems and associated instruments are disclosed in the following documents: U.S. Patent No. 10,624,709, entitled “Robotic Surgical Tool with Manual Release Lever,” issued on May 2, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 9,314,308, entitled “Robotic Ultrasonic Surgical Device With Articulating End Effector,” issued on April 19, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 9,125,662, entitled “Multi-Axis Articulating and Rotating Surgical Tools,” issued on September 8, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 9,125,662, entitled “Multi-Axis Articulating and Rotating Surgical Tools,” issued on September 2, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; No. 8,820,605, entitled “Ultrasonic Surgical Instruments”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Publication No. 2019 / 0201077, entitled “Interruption of Energy Due to Inadvertent Capacitive Coupling”, published on July 4, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Publication No. 2012 / 0292367, entitled “Robotically-Controlled End Effector”, published on November 11, 2012 (now abandoned), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 556,661, entitled “Ultrasonic Surgical Instrument with a Multi-Planar Articulating Shaft Assembly”, filed on the same date as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0005] These instruments and robotic surgical systems may also be incorporated into surgical systems for performing surgery in a surgical environment, such as a surgical operating room or room in a healthcare facility. A sterile field is typically formed around the patient and may include appropriately dressed, scrubbed medical professionals and desired furniture and / or fixtures. Examples of these surgical systems and associated features are disclosed in the following: U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0201046, entitled “Method for Controlling Smart Energy Devices,” published on July 4, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0201080, entitled “Ultrasonic Energy Device Which Varies Pressure Applied by Clamp Arm to Provide Threshold Control Pressure at a Cut Progression Location,” published on July 4, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0201091, entitled “Radio Frequency Energy Device for Delivering Combined Electrical Signals,” published on September 12, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; Device”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0207857, published on July 4, 2019, entitled “Surgical Network Determination of Prioritization of Communication, Interaction, or Processing Based on System or Device Needs”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0006] While several surgical instruments and systems have been made and used, it is believed that no one prior to the inventors has made or used the invention described in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] While this specification results in claims that particularly point out and distinctly claim such technology, it is believed that such technology will be better understood from certain examples described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals indicate the same elements, and wherein:

[0008] Figure 1 depicts a block diagram of an exemplary computer-implemented interactive surgical system;

[0009] Figure 2 A top schematic diagram depicting an example of a surgical system for performing a surgical procedure in an operating room of a health care facility;

[0010] Figure 3 Depicted Figure 2 A schematic side view of an example of a surgical hub of a surgical system;

[0011] Figure 4 Describes the Figure 2 A perspective view of a combined generator module of bipolar, ultrasonic and monopolar contacts of a surgical system;

[0012] Figure 5 Describes the use of Figure 2 Schematic side views of various examples of exemplary generators and surgical instruments for use with surgical systems;

[0013] Figure 6 depicts an exploded perspective view of an exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0014] Fig. 7A Depicted Figure 6 a cross-sectional view of a proximal body of the invention, wherein the first shield and the second shield are decoupled from each other;

[0015] Figure 7B Depicted Figure 6 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of Fig. 7A actuating the first shield and the second shield toward each other;

[0016] Figure 7C Depicted Figure 6 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of Fig. 7A The first shield and the second shield are coupled together so that the latch assembly is in a locked configuration;

[0017] Fig.7D Depicted Figure 6 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of Fig. 7A The first shield and the second shield are coupled together, wherein the user is actuating Figure 7C a latch assembly in an unlocked configuration;

[0018] Fig. 7E Depicted Figure 6 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of Fig. 7A The first shield and the second shield are initially decoupled from each other;

[0019] Figure 8 depicts an exploded perspective view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0020] Fig. 9 depicts an exploded perspective view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0021] Fig. 10A Depicted Fig. 9 an enlarged perspective view of the coupling assembly of the proximal body of the embodiment of the present invention in a decoupled configuration;

[0022] Fig. 10B Depicted along Fig. 10A an enlarged cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly in a coupled configuration, taken along section line 10B-10B;

[0023] Fig.11A depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of an alternative coupling assembly in a decoupled configuration;

[0024] Fig. 11B Depicts the connected configuration Fig.11A an enlarged cross-sectional view of a connection assembly;

[0025] Fig.12 depicts an enlarged exploded perspective view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0026] Fig.13A Depicted Fig.12 an enlarged cross-section of a coupling assembly of a proximal body of the invention in a decoupled configuration;

[0027] Fig. 13B Depicts the connected configuration Fig.13A an enlarged cross-sectional view of a connection assembly;

[0028] Fig.14A depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of an alternative coupling assembly in a decoupled configuration;

[0029] Fig. 14B Depicts the connected configuration Fig.14A an enlarged cross-sectional view of a connection assembly;

[0030] Fig.15Adepicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein, wherein the proximal body is assembled with electrical components housed therein;

[0031] Fig. 15B Depicted Fig.15A an enlarged cross-sectional view of a proximal body of the invention, wherein the proximal body is disassembled and the electrical components are biased away from the shield of the proximal body;

[0032] Fig.16A Depicted is still with the dip tray placed above the exemplary Fig.15A Electrical components connected in Fig.15A A cross-sectional view of a proximal body shield;

[0033] Fig. 16B Depicts and improperly placed Fig.16A The dipping tray Fig.15A Electrical components connected Fig.16A A cross-sectional view of a shield;

[0034] Fig.17A Depicted Fig.16A A cross-sectional view of a shield having a Fig.15A The electrical components are disconnected and placed Fig.16A above the dipping tray;

[0035] Fig. 17B Depicted with Fig.15A The electrical components are disconnected and properly placed Fig.16A The dipping tray Fig.16A A cross-sectional view of a shield;

[0036] Fig.18A depicts an enlarged side elevation view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0037] Fig.18B Depicted Fig.18A an enlarged side elevation view of a proximal body of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein a scanning device is scanning a bar code of the proximal body;

[0038] Fig.18C Depicted Fig.18A an enlarged side elevation view of the proximal body of the invention with a hatch door of the proximal body removed;

[0039] Fig.19A depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0040] Fig.19B Depicted Fig.19AAn enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the magnet is suspended above the proximal body;

[0041] Fig.19C Depicted Fig.19A an enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the hatch door of the proximal body is removed;

[0042] Fig. 20A depicts an enlarged side elevation view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0043] Fig. 20B Depicted Fig. 20A an enlarged side elevation view of a proximal body of the invention, wherein a heat source is suspended above the proximal body;

[0044] Fig. 20C Depicted Fig. 20A an enlarged side elevation view of the proximal body of the invention with a hatch door of the proximal body removed;

[0045] Fig.21A depicts an enlarged side elevation view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0046] Fig. 21B Depicted Fig.21A an enlarged side elevation view of a proximal body of the invention, wherein the interactive device is hovering above the proximal body;

[0047] Fig. 21C Depicted Fig.21A an enlarged side elevation view of a proximal body of the invention, wherein a power cord is separated from the proximal body;

[0048] Fig.22A depicts a perspective view of a processing bag assembly in a closed configuration;

[0049] Fig. 22B Depicted in open configuration Fig.22A A perspective view of a processing bag assembly;

[0050] Fig. 22C Depicted in open configuration Fig.22A A perspective view of a processing bag assembly with surgical components loaded therein;

[0051] Fig.22D Depicts the closed configuration Fig.22A A perspective view of a processing bag assembly, wherein Fig. 22C of surgical components loaded therein;

[0052] Fig.23 depicts a schematic diagram of another exemplary processing bag assembly;

[0053] Fig.24 depicts a schematic diagram of another exemplary processing bag assembly;

[0054] Fig.25 depicts a schematic diagram of another exemplary processing bag assembly;

[0055] Fig.26 depicts a schematic diagram of another exemplary processing bag assembly; and

[0056] Fig. 27 Depicted is a flow chart of any exemplary closing cycle that may be used with any of the surgical instruments shown herein.

[0057] The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the present technology may be performed in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily shown in the drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the present technology and, together with the description, explain the principles of the technology; however, it should be understood that the technology is not limited to the precise arrangements shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] The following description of certain examples of the present technology should not be used to limit the scope of the present technology. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments and advantages of the present technology will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is by way of example, one of the best ways contemplated for implementing the present technology. As will be appreciated, the technology described herein can have other different and obvious aspects, all of which do not depart from the present technology. Therefore, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[0059] It should also be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, implementations, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, implementations, examples, etc. described herein. Therefore, the following teachings, expressions, implementations, examples, etc. should not be considered isolated from each other. According to the teachings herein, various suitable ways in which the teachings herein can be combined will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0060] For clarity of the disclosure, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are defined herein relative to a human or robotic operator of a surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to a location of an element that is closer to a human or robotic operator of a surgical instrument and further away from a surgical end effector of a surgical instrument. The term "distal" refers to a location of an element that is closer to a surgical end effector of a surgical instrument and further away from a human or robotic operator of a surgical instrument. In addition, the terms "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "above," and "below" are used relative to the embodiments and associated drawings, and are not intended to unnecessarily limit the invention described herein.

[0061] I. Examples of Surgical Systems

[0062] for Figure 1 , a computer-implemented interactive surgical system (100) includes one or more surgical systems (102) and a cloud-based system (e.g., a cloud (104) that may include a remote server (113) coupled to a storage device (105)). Each surgical system (102) of this example includes at least one surgical hub (106) in communication with the cloud (104), which may include the remote server (113). In one example, as Figure 1 As shown in , the surgical system (102) includes a visualization system (108), a robotic system (110), and a handheld intelligent surgical instrument (112), which are configured to communicate with each other and / or with a hub (106). In some aspects, the surgical system (102) may include M hubs (106), N visualization systems (108), O robotic systems (110), and P handheld intelligent surgical instruments (112), where M, N, O, and P are integers greater than or equal to 1. In any case, any suitable combination of the features provided below may be incorporated into an exemplary surgical system such as surgical system (100) and used in an operating room to perform a desired surgical procedure, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein.

[0063] Figure 2An example of a surgical system (102) for performing a surgical procedure on a patient lying flat on an operating table (114) in a surgical operating room (116) is depicted. A robotic system (110) is used as part of the surgical system (102) during a surgical procedure. The robotic system (110) includes a surgeon's console (118), a patient side cart (120) (surgical robot), and a surgical robot hub (122). While the surgeon observes the surgical site through the console (118), the patient side cart (120) can manipulate at least one removably coupled surgical tool (117) through a minimally invasive incision in the patient's body using any of a plurality of surgical arms (123). An image of the surgical site can be obtained through a medical imaging device (124), which can be manipulated by the patient side cart (120) to orient the imaging device (124). The robotic hub (122) can be used to process the image of the surgical site for subsequent display to the surgeon through the console (118).

[0064] Other types of robotic systems may be readily adapted for use with the surgical system (102). Various examples of robotic systems and surgical tools suitable for use with the present disclosure are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 611,339, entitled “RobotAssisted Surgical Platform,” filed on December 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0065] Various examples of cloud-based analytics performed by the cloud (104) and suitable for use with the present disclosure are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 611,340, entitled “Cloud-Based Medical Analytics,” filed on December 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0066] In various aspects, the imaging device (124) includes at least one image sensor and one or more optical components. Suitable image sensors include, but are not limited to, charge coupled device (CCD) sensors and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensors. In various aspects, the imaging device (124) is configured for use in minimally invasive surgery. Examples of imaging devices suitable for the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, arthroscopes, angioscopes, bronchoscopes, choledochoscopes, colonoscopes, cytoscopes, duodenoscopes, enteroscopes, esophago-duodenoscopes (gastroscopes), endoscopes, laryngoscopes, nasopharyngeal-renal endoscopes, sigmoidoscopes, thoracoscopes, and hysteroendoscopes. Some aspects of spectral and multispectral imaging are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 611,341, entitled “Interactive Surgical Platform,” filed on December 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0067] During any surgical operation, operating room and surgical equipment need to be strictly sterilized. The strict sanitation and sterilization conditions required in "surgical room" (i.e., operating room or treatment room) require the highest possible sterility of all medical devices and equipment. A part of this sterilization process is the need to sterilize anything that contacts the patient or penetrates the sterile field. It should be understood that the sterile field can be considered to be a designated area that is considered to be free of microorganisms, such as in a tray or in a sterile towel, or the sterile field can be considered to be the area around the patient prepared for surgical operation. The sterile field can include the team members who are scrubbed and appropriately dressed, as well as all equipment and fixtures in the area.

[0068] In addition to introducing any features of the surgical system (100), furniture, or fixtures into the sterile field that requires sterilization, removing these features from the sterile field may cause additional difficulties, particularly when these features may have contacted or are presumed to have contacted the patient, including any tissue and / or fluid associated with the surgical procedure. Such contamination of these features from the patient generally requires special consideration during or after the surgical procedure, particularly when handling these features for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing as needed. In one example, the surgical system (100) and / or the health care professionals associated with the surgical procedure may be prepared to address such handling, as discussed in more detail below.

[0069] like Figure 2As shown in , a main display (119) is positioned in the sterile field to be visible to an operator at an operating table (114). In addition, a visualization tower (111) is positioned outside the sterile field. The visualization tower (111) includes a first non-sterile display (107) and a second non-sterile display (109) that are separated from each other. A visualization system (108) guided by a hub (106) is configured to be able to coordinate information flow to operators inside and outside the sterile field using displays (107, 109, 119). For example, the hub (106) can enable the visualization system (108) to display a snapshot of a surgical site recorded by an imaging device (124) on a non-sterile display (107) or (109) while maintaining a real-time feed of the surgical site on the main display (119). For example, a snapshot on a non-sterile display (107) or display (109) can allow a non-sterile operator to perform diagnostic steps related to a surgical procedure.

[0070] In one aspect, the hub (106) is also configured to be able to route diagnostic input or feedback entered by a non-sterile operator at the visualization tower (111) to a primary display (119) within the sterile field, where the diagnostic input or feedback can be viewed by a sterile operator at the operating table. In one example, the input can be a modified form of a snapshot displayed on a non-sterile display (107) or display (109), which can be routed to the primary display (119) via the hub (106).

[0071] refer to Figure 2 , the surgical instrument (112) is used in a surgical procedure as part of the surgical system (102). The hub (106) is also configured to coordinate information flowing to a display of the surgical instrument (112), such as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 611,341, entitled "Interactive Surgical Platform," filed on December 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Diagnostic input or feedback entered by a non-sterile operator at the visualization tower (111) can be routed by the hub (106) to a surgical instrument display (115) within the sterile field, where the operator of the surgical instrument (112) can view the diagnostic input or feedback. Exemplary surgical instruments suitable for use with surgical system (102) are described, for example, under the title “Surgical Instrument Hardware” in U.S. provisional patent application serial number 62 / 611,341, entitled “Interactive Surgical Platform,” filed on December 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0072] Reference now Figure 3, the hub (106) is depicted as communicating with a visualization system (108), a robotic system (110), and a handheld intelligent surgical instrument (112). The hub (106) includes a hub display (135), an imaging module (138), a generator module (140), a communication module (130), a processor module (132), and a storage array (134). In certain aspects, as Figure 3 As shown, the hub (106) also includes a smoke evacuation module (126), a suction / irrigation module (128) and / or an operating room mapping module (133).

[0073] During surgery, energy application to tissue for sealing and / or cutting is often associated with smoke evacuation, suction of excess fluid, and / or flushing of tissue. Fluid lines, power lines, and / or data lines from different sources often become tangled during surgery. Solving this problem during surgery can waste valuable time. Disconnecting a line may require disconnecting the line from its corresponding module, which may require resetting the module. The hub modular housing (136) provides a unified environment for managing power lines, data lines, and fluid lines, which reduces the frequency of tangles between such lines.

[0074] See also Figure 3 to Figure 4 , aspects of the present disclosure are presented as a hub modular housing (136) that allows modular integration of generator modules (140), smoke exhaust modules (126), and suction / irrigation modules (128). The hub modular housing (136) also facilitates interactive communication between the modules (140, 126, 128). Figure 4 As shown in , the generator module (140) may be a generator module having integrated monopolar components, bipolar components, and ultrasonic components supported in a single housing unit (139) that is slidably inserted into the hub modular housing (136). Figure 4 As shown in , the generator module (140) can be configured to be connected to a monopolar device (146), a bipolar device (147), and an ultrasonic device (148). Alternatively, the generator module (140) can include a series of monopolar generator modules, bipolar generator modules, and / or ultrasonic generator modules that interact through the hub modular housing (136). The hub modular housing (136) can be configured to facilitate the insertion of multiple generators and interactive communication between the generators docked into the hub modular housing (136) so that the generators will act as a single generator.

[0075] Figure 5One form of a generator (150) and various surgical instruments (152, 154, 156) that can be used therewith is shown, wherein the surgical instrument (152) is an ultrasonic surgical instrument (152), the surgical instrument (154) is an RF electrosurgical instrument (154), and the multifunctional surgical instrument (156) is a combined ultrasonic / RF electrosurgical instrument (156). The generator (150) may be configurable for use with a variety of surgical instruments. According to various forms, the generator (150) may be configurable for use with different surgical instruments of different types, including, for example, an ultrasonic surgical instrument (152), an RF electrosurgical instrument (154), and a multifunctional surgical instrument (156) that integrates RF energy and ultrasonic energy delivered simultaneously from the generator (150). Although Figure 5 The generator 150 of the present example is shown as being separate from the surgical instruments (152, 154, 156), but the generator (150) may alternatively be integrally formed with any of the surgical instruments (152, 154, 156) to form an integrated surgical system. The generator (150) includes an input device (158) located on a front panel of the generator (150) console. The input device (158) may include any suitable device that generates signals suitable for programming the operation of the generator (150). The generator (150) may be configured for wired or wireless communication.

[0076] The generator (150) of this example is configured to be capable of driving a plurality of surgical instruments (152, 154, 156). An example of these surgical instruments is an ultrasonic surgical instrument (152), and includes a handpiece (160), an ultrasonic transducer (162), an axis assembly (164), and an end effector (166). The end effector (166) includes an ultrasonic blade (168) and a clamping arm (170) acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic transducer (162). The handpiece (160) includes a trigger (172) for operating the clamping arm (170) and a combination of toggle buttons (173, 174, 175) for powering the ultrasonic blade (168) and driving the ultrasonic blade or other functions. The toggle buttons (173, 174, 175) can be configured to be capable of powering the ultrasonic transducer (162) with the generator (150).

[0077] The generator (150) is also configured to drive another example of a surgical instrument (154). The RF electrosurgical instrument (154) includes a handpiece (176), a shaft assembly (178), and an end effector (180). The end effector (180) includes electrodes located in clamping arms (181, 182) and returned through an electrical conductor portion of the shaft assembly (178). The electrodes are coupled to and powered by a bipolar energy source within the generator (150). The handpiece (176) includes a trigger (183) for operating the clamping arms (181, 182) and an energy button (184) for actuating an energy switch to power the electrodes in the end effector (180).

[0078] The generator (150) is also configured to be capable of driving a multifunctional surgical instrument (156). The multifunctional surgical instrument (156) includes a handpiece (185), an axis assembly (186), and an end effector (188). The end effector (188) has an ultrasonic blade (190) and a clamping arm (192). The ultrasonic blade (190) is acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic transducer (162). The handpiece (185) includes a trigger (194) for operating the clamping arm (192) and a combination of a switch button (195, 196, 197) for energizing the ultrasonic blade (190) and driving the ultrasonic blade or other functions. The switch button (195, 196, 197) can be configured to be capable of energizing the ultrasonic transducer (162) with the generator (150) and energizing the ultrasonic blade (190) with a bipolar energy source also contained in the generator (150). It should be understood that handpieces (160, 176, 185) may be replaced with robotically controlled instruments for incorporating one or more aspects of surgical instruments (152, 154, 156). Thus, the term "handpiece" should not be limited to this context and handheld use.

[0079] As used throughout this specification, the term "wireless" and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communication channels, etc. that can transmit data through a non-solid medium using modulated electromagnetic radiation. The term does not mean that the associated devices do not contain any wires, although in some aspects they may not. The communication module may implement any of a variety of wireless or wired communication standards or protocols, including but not limited to Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 series), WMAX (IEEE 802.16 series), IEEE 802.20, Long Term Evolution (LTE), Ev-DO, HSPA+, HSDPA+, HSUPA+, EDGE, GSM, GPRS, CDMA, TDMA, DECT, Bluetooth, and its Ethernet derivatives, and any other wireless and wired protocols designated as 3G, 4G, 5G and above. The computing module may include multiple communication modules. For example, the first communication module may be dedicated to shorter range wireless communications such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and the second communication module may be dedicated to longer range wireless communications such as GPS, EDGE, GPRS, CDMA, WiMAX, LTE, Ev-DO, etc.

[0080] As used herein, a processor or processing unit is an electronic circuit that performs operations on some external data source (usually a memory or some other data stream). The term is used herein to refer to a central processing unit (Central Processing Unit) in a system or computer system (especially a System on a Chip (SoC)) that combines multiple specialized "processors".

[0081] As used herein, a system on a chip or system on a chip (SoC or SOC) is an integrated circuit (also referred to as an "IC" or "chip") that integrates all the components of a computer or other electronic system. It may include digital, analog, mixed signal, and often radio frequency functions - all on a single substrate. A SoC integrates a microcontroller (or microprocessor) with advanced peripherals such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), a Wi-Fi module, or a coprocessor. A SoC may or may not include built-in memory.

[0082] As used herein, a microcontroller or controller is a system that integrates a microprocessor with peripheral circuits and memory. A microcontroller (or MCU for a microcontroller unit) can be implemented as a small computer on a single integrated circuit. It can be similar to a SoC; an SoC may include a microcontroller as one of its components. A microcontroller may include one or more core processing units (CPUs) as well as memory and programmable input / output peripherals. Program memory in the form of ferroelectric RAM, NOR flash memory, or OTP ROM, as well as a small amount of RAM, is also often included on the chip. Compared to microprocessors used in personal computers or other general-purpose applications consisting of various discrete chips, microcontrollers can be used for embedded applications.

[0083] As used herein, the term controller or microcontroller may be a stand-alone IC or chip device that interfaces with peripheral devices. This may be a link between two components of a computer or a controller on an external device that manages the operation of (and connections to) the device. Modular devices include modules that can be received within a surgical hub (e.g., such as a combination of Figure 3 The invention relates to a surgical device or instrument that can be connected to various modules so as to be connected or paired with a corresponding surgical hub. Modular devices include, for example, intelligent surgical instruments, medical imaging devices, suction / irrigation devices, smoke evacuators, energy generators, ventilators, insufflators, and displays. The modular devices described herein can be controlled by control algorithms. The control algorithm can be executed on the modular device itself, on a surgical hub paired with a specific modular device, or on both the modular device and the surgical hub (e.g., via a distributed computing architecture). In some examples, the control algorithm of the modular device controls the device based on data sensed by the modular device itself (i.e., by sensors in, on, or connected to the modular device). The data can be related to the patient being operated on (e.g., tissue properties or insufflation pressure) or the modular device itself (e.g., the rate at which the knife is advanced, the motor current, or the energy level). For example, the control algorithm of a surgical suturing and cutting instrument can control the rate at which the motor of the instrument drives its knife through the tissue according to the resistance encountered by the knife as it advances.

[0084] II. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Having Alignment Features for Improved Assembly and Disassembly

[0085] As described above, objects used to penetrate the sterile field of a surgical operating room during a surgical procedure need to be properly sterilized; and objects leaving the sterile field after a surgical procedure generally require special consideration when handling for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing. In some cases, surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) may require at least some degree of assembly within a surgical operating room prior to exemplary use according to the description herein; and then require some degree of disassembly after the exemplary use so that selective components can be harvested for disposal, reuse, and / or remanufacturing. Therefore, in some cases, surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) may be introduced into the sterile field as a surgical kit, wherein the subcomponents require at least some degree of assembly prior to exemplary use. In addition to the subcomponents for forming the surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156), such a surgical kit may also include tools for assembly, disassembly, and appropriate processing for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing of the instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) and their subcomponents.

[0086] In some cases, the proximal body of a surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), such as a handpiece (160, 176, 185), may contain internal components (such as electronics and / or batteries) that need to be processed separately from the rest of the handpiece (160, 176, 185) for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing. Therefore, such internal components may need to be accessed and removed from the handpiece (160, 176, 185) after the surgical procedure but within a sterile operating room.

[0087] It may be desirable to provide a proximal body, such as a handpiece (160, 176, 185), having internal components that are accessible within an operating room. However, it is also desirable to ensure that the proximal body, such as a handpiece (160, 176, 185), is structurally strong enough to maintain its assembled form during exemplary use of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156). In other words, it may be desirable to selectively access the internal components of the handpiece (160, 176, 185) after exemplary use in a surgical procedure; and also to ensure that the handpiece (160, 176, 185) is not inadvertently disassembled during exemplary use in a surgical procedure.

[0088] Figure 6 An exemplary proximal body (7010) that can be easily incorporated into a surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) is shown. The proximal body (7010) includes a first shield (7012) and a second shield (7014) that are configured to be coupled together to form the proximal body (7010). As will be described in more detail below, the first shield (7012) and the second shield (7014) include complementary coupling features that are configured to prevent inadvertent disassembly of the proximal body (7010) during exemplary use, but also allow a user to separate the shields (7012, 7014) after exemplary use to collect internal components for disposal.

[0089] In the present example, the proximal body (7010) is shown as a hand piece, such that the proximal body (7010) can be used to replace the hand pieces (160, 176, 185) described above. The proximal body (7010) is configured to be appropriately coupled to a shaft assembly and an end effector, such as the shaft assembly (164, 178, 186) and the end effector (166, 180, 188) described above. The shields (7012, 7014) together define a hollow interior (7015) that, when properly assembled, can accommodate appropriate components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the proximal body (7010) may be configured to appropriately accommodate a circuit board, a control unit, a battery, an ultrasonic transducer (162), toggle buttons (173, 174, 175, 195, 196, 197), a trigger (183, 194), etc.

[0090] In the present example, the shields (7012, 7014) include a plurality of aligned coupling sleeves (7036) that can receive friction fit coupling bodies (7034). The complementary coupling sleeves (7036) of each shield (7012, 7014) can receive a corresponding coupling body (7034) such that one coupling body (7034) is inserted into each complementary coupling sleeve (7036) of each shield (7012, 7014). The coupling bodies (7034) can help prevent the shields (7012, 7014) from being disengaged in the lateral direction (LD) by the friction braking force generated between the coupling bodies (7034) and the corresponding coupling sleeves (7036). The coupling bodies (7034) and coupling sleeves (7036) can include any suitable geometric structures, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. In one aspect of the present invention, coupling body (7034) may include a plurality of circumferentially extending ribs that may further facilitate engagement between the inner surface of coupling sleeve (7036) and coupling body (7034). Coupling body (7034) may be formed from any suitable material, as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0091] The shields (7012, 7014) further include complementary support ribs (7038) lining the perimeter of the inner surface of the shields (7012, 7014). The complementary support ribs (7038) of each shield (7012, 7014) are configured to receive each other in a nested manner so as to prevent the shields (7012, 7014) from being actuated vertically and longitudinally relative to each other when coupled together. Thus, the ribs (7038) engage one another to prevent the shields (7012, 7014) from being actuated vertically and longitudinally relative to one another. Figure 6 The lateral direction (LD) shown moves relative to each other.

[0092] The shields (7012, 7014) also include at least one latch assembly (7016). As will be described in more detail below, when the shields (7012, 7014) are properly coupled to each other, the latch assembly (7016) is configured to move between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. When in the locked configuration, the latch assembly (7016) is configured to help the coupling body (7024) and the sleeve (7036) prevent the shields (7012, 7014) from lateral disengagement. When in the unlocked configuration, the latch assembly (7016) is configured to allow a user to at least initiate lateral separation of the shields (7012, 7014) so ​​that the user can overcome the friction braking force that prevents lateral separation of the shields (7012, 7014).

[0093] Each latch assembly (7016) includes a resilient latch (7018) extending laterally from one shield (7014), while the other shield (7012) defines a channel (7032) communicating with each other (see 7A to 7E ) and access hole (7030). The resilient latch (7018) includes a resilient leg (7024) extending laterally away from its corresponding shield (7012). As will be described in more detail below, the cam surface (7020) is configured to engage a corresponding cam surface (7026) of the shield (7014) when the shields (7012, 7014) are laterally coupled together to drive the resilient leg (7024) of the latch (7018) from a relaxed position (see Fig. 7A ) into the flexed position (see Figure 7B As will be described in greater detail below, locking shoulder (7022) is configured to engage a corresponding locking shoulder (7028) defined by shroud (7014) when shrouds (7012, 7014) are laterally coupled together so as to prevent shrouds (7012, 7014) from laterally decoupling.

[0094] The resilient legs (7024) terminate in respective camming surfaces (7020) and locking shoulders (7022). The resilient legs (7024) are sufficiently flexible so that the legs (7024) can be moved from a relaxed position (see Fig. 7A ) deflected to a flexed position (see Figure 7B In addition, the elastic legs (7024) are sufficiently elastic so that once the external force is sufficiently removed, the legs (7024) can return to a relaxed position (see Figure 7C ).

[0095] 7A to 7E An exemplary coupling and decoupling of shields (7012, 7014) using latch assemblies (7016) is shown. First, as Fig. 7AAs shown, a user may align shields (7012, 7014) so ​​that resilient latches (7018) are vertically and longitudinally aligned with channels (7032). It should be understood that when latches (7018) and channels (7032) are properly aligned to couple shields (7012, 7014) together, complementary coupling sleeves (7036) of each shield and complementary support ribs (7038) of each shield (7012, 7014) are properly aligned.

[0096] Next, if Figure 7B As shown, with the latch (7018) and channel (7032) aligned, the user can move the shields (7012, 7014) toward each other so that contact between the camming surfaces (7020, 7026) drives the resilient legs (7024) from the relaxed position to the flexed position. When the shields (7012, 7014) are further actuated toward each other, the camming surface (7020) of the resilient latch (7018) can remain engaged with the channel (7032), so that the channel (7032) holds the latch (7018) in the flexed position.

[0097] Next, if Figure 7C As shown, once the shields (7012, 7014) are fully coupled, the camming surface (7020) is advanced laterally past the portion of the channel (7032) that forces the resilient latch (7018) into the flexed position, causing the resilient leg (7024) to return to the relaxed position and the camming surface (7020) to enter the access hole (7030). With the camming surface (7020) within the access hole (7030), the locking shoulder (7022) is directly adjacent to the locking surface (7028), which defines a portion of the access hole (7030). The locking shoulder (7022) and the locking surface (7028) are directly adjacent to each other, so that if the shields (7012, 7014) attempt to laterally disengage from each other, the contact between the shoulder (7022) and the surface (7028) will prevent the lateral movement of the shields (7012, 7014) away from each other. Thus, when the locking shoulder (7022) and the locking surface (7028) are directly adjacent to each other, the resilient latch (7018) is in the locked position, as shown in FIG. Figure 7C It will be appreciated that latch assembly (7016) also assists in aligning shields (7012, 7014) when shields (7012, 7014) are initially coupled together, as well as maintaining alignment of shields (7012, 7014) during exemplary use.

[0098] When in the locked position, the user may utilize the proximal body (7010) in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, the user may manipulate the proximal body (7010) in order to properly control the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) to which the proximal body (7010) is coupled. With the latch (7018) in the locked position, the latch assembly (7016) enhances the structural robustness of the proximal body (7010) by further preventing the shields (7012, 7014) from inadvertently separating from one another.

[0099] After a user has finished using proximal body (7010) as described herein, it may be desirable to access the various components housed within hollow interior (7015) for further processing (e.g., disposal, reuse, remanufacturing, etc.). If a user wishes to access interior (7015) of proximal body (7010), the user may press downward on the terminal end of the resulting latch (7018) via access hole (7030), such as Fig.7D Specifically, the user can press the resilient latch (7018) to flex the resilient leg (7014) so ​​that the locking shoulder (7022) is no longer directly adjacent to the locking surface (7028), thereby driving the resilient latch (7018) to the unlocked configuration. With the locking shoulder (7022) and the locking surface (7028) separated from each other in the unlocked configuration, the latch assembly (7016) can no longer prevent the lateral separation of the shields (7012, 7014). Therefore, when the user presses the resilient latch (7018) downward through the access hole (7030), as shown in FIG. Fig.7D As shown, the user can simultaneously pull the portions of shields (7012, 7014) directly adjacent to latch assembly (7016) apart from each other, as shown. Fig. 7E shown.

[0100] Once the shields (7012, 7014) are properly separated when the latch assembly (7016) is in the unlocked configuration, the camming surface (7020) of the resilient latch (7018) reengages the camming surface (7026) defined by the channel (7032). The engagement between the camming surfaces (7020, 7026) holds the resilient latch (7018) in the flexed position, thereby allowing the user to further pull the shields (7012, 7014) apart. The user can further pull the shields (7012, 7014) apart, causing the resilient latch (7018) to leave the channel (7032), thereby allowing the latch (7018) to return to the relaxed position.

[0101] It should be appreciated that the resistance to lateral disengagement of shields (7012, 7014) provided by latch assembly (7016) can be controlled, depending on whether latch assembly (7016) is in a locked configuration or an unlocked configuration. Thus, if a user desires to disengage shields (7012, 7014) in accordance with the teachings herein, the user can drive resilient latch (7018) to a deflected position such that locking shoulder (7022) and locking surface (7028) separate from each other. Otherwise, resilient latch (7018) will remain in the locked configuration, as shown in FIG. Figure 7C As shown, the locking shoulder (7022) and the locking surface (7028) prevent the accidental decoupling of the shields (7012, 7014). In other words, the latch assembly (7016) allows the user to easily decouple the shields (7012, 7014) from each other; wherein the shields (7012, 7014) remain structurally strong in the locked configuration, while the shields (7012, 7014) are easy to separate in the unlocked configuration.

[0102] If the shields (7012, 7014) of the proximal body are fully coupled together using the friction braking force provided by the coupling body (7034) and the coupling sleeve (7036), the lateral decoupling force required to pull the shields (7012, 7014) apart can be substantially constant, regardless of whether the user wishes to keep the shields (7012, 7014) together or separate the shields (7012, 7014) to access the internal components. In this case, it may be necessary to select a friction braking force that is structurally strong enough to keep the shields (7012, 7014) together during exemplary use, but difficult to access from the inside; or to select a friction braking force that allows the shields (7012, 7014) to be easily decoupled, but also makes the shields (7012, 7014) susceptible to lateral decoupling during exemplary use.

[0103] Although two latch assemblies (7016) are shown in the current example, any suitable number of latch assemblies (7016) may be used, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, a single latch assembly (7016) may be used. Additionally, latch assembly (7016) is shown as being positioned on top of proximal body (7010); latch assembly (7016) may be placed at any suitable location or combination of locations on proximal body (7010), as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0104] While latch assembly (7016) is used to provide structural robustness during exemplary use and internal access after exemplary use to access internal components, any other suitable structure may be used, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Figure 8 Another exemplary proximal body (7040) that can be easily incorporated into a surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) is shown. The proximal body (7040) includes a first shield (7042) and a second shield (7044) that are configured to be coupled together to form the proximal body (7040). As will be described in more detail below, the first shield (7042) and the second shield (7044) include complementary coupling features that are configured to prevent inadvertent disassembly of the proximal body (7040) during exemplary use, but also allow a user to separate the shields (7042, 7044) after the exemplary use to collect internal components for disposal.

[0105] In the present example, the proximal body (7040) is shown as a hand piece, such that the proximal body (7040) can be used to replace the hand pieces (160, 176, 185) described above. The proximal body (7040) is configured to be appropriately coupled to a shaft assembly and an end effector, such as the shaft assembly (164, 178, 186) and the end effector (166, 180, 188) described above. The shields (7042, 7044) together define a hollow interior (7045) which, when assembled, can accommodate appropriate components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the proximal body (7040) may be configured to appropriately accommodate a circuit board, a control unit, a battery, an ultrasonic transducer (162), toggle buttons (173, 174, 175, 195, 196, 197), a trigger (183, 194), etc.

[0106] Similar to the above-described shields (7012, 7014), the shields (7042, 7044) further include complementary support ribs (7058) lining the periphery of the inner surface of the shields (7042, 7044). The complementary support ribs (7058) of each shield (7042, 7044) are configured to receive each other in a nested manner so as to prevent the shields (7042, 7044) from being actuated vertically and longitudinally relative to each other when coupled together. Thus, the ribs (7058) engage one another to prevent the shields (7042, 7044) from being actuated vertically and longitudinally relative to one another. Figure 8 The lateral direction (LD) shown moves relative to each other.

[0107] In place of the latch assembly (7016), the shield (7042) includes a plurality of female threaded coupling sleeves (7046); and the shield (7044) defines a plurality of corresponding through holes (7050). The through holes (7050) and the corresponding female threaded coupling sleeves (7046) are configured to receive corresponding threaded torque screws (7052). The through holes (7050) are sized to be large enough to receive the threaded shafts (7054) of the corresponding torque screws (7052), but not large enough to allow the heads (7056) of the torque screws (7052) to travel through the through holes (7050). In addition, the threaded shaft (7054) is configured to engage the threads of the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046) such that rotation of the threaded shaft (7054) relative to the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046) actuates the threaded shaft (7054) longitudinally relative to the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046) and the shield (7042). The torsion screw (7052) is sized such that when properly coupled, the head (7056) abuts against the surface of the shield (7044), thereby pressing the shields (7042, 7044) together; while the threaded engagement between the threaded shaft (7054) and the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046) prevents the torsion screw (7052) from separating from the shield (7042). Thus, a user can insert the threaded shaft (70454) into the corresponding through hole (7050) until the threaded shaft (7054) engages the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046). Next, the user may then rotate the torsion screw (7052) at the head (7056) with an appropriate torque until the torsion screw (7052) properly couples the shields (7042, 7044) together. Thus, during exemplary use, the torsion screw (7052) may prevent the shields (7042, 7044) from separating from each other in the lateral direction (LD).

[0108] After exemplary use, the user may remove the threaded torque screws (7052) from the shields (7042, 7044) to allow the shields (7042, 7044) to be easily decoupled in the lateral direction (LD) to harvest the internal components for processing. The user may apply torque to the head (7056) of each torque screw (7052) until the threaded shaft (7054) is decoupled from the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046). After all torque screws (7052) are decoupled from their respective female threaded coupling sleeves (7046), the user may decouple the shields (7042, 7044) laterally to provide access to the internal components. Thus, the torsion screw (7052), the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046) and the through hole (7050) allow a user to easily decouple the shields (7042, 7044) from one another; wherein, when the torsion screw (7052) is properly assembled, the shields (7042, 7044) remain structurally strong, and when the torsion screw (7052) is properly separated, the shields (7042, 7044) are easily separated.

[0109] In some aspects of the present disclosure, shields (7042, 7044) may include suitable through holes (7056) and coupling bodies (7034); along with the use of female threaded coupling sleeves (7046), through holes (7050), and torsion screws (7052). Any suitable combination of coupling bodies (7034) and torsion screws (7052) may be used, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the teachings herein.

[0110] Fig. 9 Another exemplary proximal body (7060) that can be easily incorporated into a surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) is shown. The proximal body (7060) includes a first shield (7062) and a second shield (7064) that are configured to be coupled together to form the proximal body (7060). As will be described in more detail below, the first shield (7062) and the second shield (7064) include complementary coupling features that are configured to prevent inadvertent disassembly of the proximal body (7060) during exemplary use, but also allow a user to separate the shields (7062, 7064) after the exemplary use to collect internal components for disposal.

[0111] In the present example, the proximal body (7060) is shown as a hand piece, such that the proximal body (7060) can be used to replace the hand pieces (160, 176, 185) described above. The proximal body (7060) is configured to be appropriately coupled to a shaft assembly and an end effector, such as the shaft assembly (164, 178, 186) and the end effector (166, 180, 188) described above. The shields (7062, 7064) together define a hollow interior (7065) that, when assembled, can accommodate appropriate components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the proximal body (7060) may be configured to appropriately accommodate a circuit board, a control unit, a battery, an ultrasonic transducer (162), toggle buttons (173, 174, 175, 195, 196, 197), a trigger (183, 194), etc.

[0112] Instead of having a latch assembly (7016) or a torsion screw (7052), the shields (7062, 7064) include a vertical direction coupling assembly (7066). The vertical direction coupling assembly (7066) is configured to allow the shields (7062, 7064) to be vertically actuated relative to each other in order to be properly coupled and uncoupled. The vertical direction coupling assembly (7066) includes a plurality of first coupling bodies (7068) extending from the first shield (7062) and a plurality of corresponding second coupling bodies (7070) extending from the second shield (7064) toward the first shield (7062).

[0113] like Fig. 10A As best shown in FIG. 1 , the first coupling body (7068) defines a complementary channel (7080) extending from the top surface of the first coupling body (7068) and terminating in the magnetic base plate (7082). The first coupling body (7068) also defines a slot (7084) in communication with the channel (7080), such that the slot (7084) and the channel (7080) are sized to receive a corresponding second coupling body (7070).

[0114] The second coupling body (7070) includes a narrow portion (7072) terminating in a widened portion (7074). The second coupling body (7070) also includes a magnetic surface (7076) that is configured to be directly adjacent to and / or in contact with the magnetic base plate (7082) of the first coupling body (7068). The narrow portion (7072) extends away from the sheath (7064) and is sized to fit properly within the groove (7084) defined by the first coupling body (7068). The widened portion (7074) is sized to fit within the complementary channel (7080) defined by the first coupling body (7068). When Fig. 10BWhen properly coupled as shown in , the groove (7084) and the channel (7080) are configured to prevent relative movement between the shields (7062, 7064) with the complementary geometry of the narrow portion (7072) and the widened portion (7074), respectively, while being properly coupled in every direction except the vertical direction. In addition, the magnetic surface (7076) and the magnetic base plate (7082) are magnetically attracted toward each other, so that when the first and second coupling bodies (7068, 7070) are coupled to each other, the magnetic attraction between the surface (7076) and the base plate (7082) prevents the second coupling body (7070) from being vertically actuated away from the confines of the first coupling body (7068); thereby also preventing relative movement between the shields (7062, 7064) in the vertical direction.

[0115] It should be appreciated that the magnetic attraction between the bottom plate (7082) and the surface (7076) is suitably strong enough so that the shields (7062, 7064) do not inadvertently separate from one another during exemplary use according to the description herein. However, when a user wishes to intentionally decouple the shields (7072, 7064) from one another to access the hollow interior (7065) in order to harvest the internal components for processing, the magnetic attraction between the bottom plate (7082) and the surface (7076) can be overcome with a sufficient amount of force in the vertical direction. In other words, the shields (7062, 7064) remain structurally strong during exemplary use, while the shields (7062, 7064) readily separate in response to sufficient force in the vertical direction via the coupling assembly (7066), which allows the user to easily decouple the shields (7062, 7064) from one another. It should be appreciated that, in the vertical direction, coupling assembly (7066) also assists in aligning shields (7062, 7064) when shields (7062, 7064) are initially coupled together, as well as maintaining alignment of shields (7062, 7064) during exemplary use.

[0116] While magnetic attraction is used in the current example to prevent relative movement between shields (7062, 7064) in the vertical direction, any other suitable structure may be utilized to prevent relative vertical movement, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B An alternative coupling assembly (7090) is shown that may be readily incorporated into shrouds (7062, 7064) in place of coupling assembly (7066) described above. Thus, coupling assembly (7090) is substantially similar to coupling assembly (7066) described above, but with the differences detailed below.

[0117] Specifically, the coupling assembly (7090) includes a resilient nub (7092) associated with the outer surface of the second body (7070) instead of a magnet; while the coupling assembly (7090) also includes a corresponding recess (7094) defined by the inner surface of the first coupling body (7068). The resilient nub (7092) and the recess (7094) are sized to interact with each other so that when they are coupled together, the friction braking force between the resilient nub (7092) and the recess (7094) prevents relative movement between the first body (7068) and the second body (7070). However, when a user wishes to intentionally decouple the sheaths (7072, 7064) from each other to access the hollow interior (7065) in order to harvest the internal components for processing, the friction braking force between the resilient nub (7092) and the recess (7094) can be overcome with a sufficient amount of force in the vertical direction. In other words, coupling assembly (7090) allows a user to easily decouple shields (7062, 7064) from one another; wherein shields (7062, 7064) remain structurally strong during exemplary use, while shields (7062, 7064) readily separate in response to sufficient force in a vertical direction.

[0118] Fig.12 Another exemplary proximal body (7100) that can be easily incorporated into a surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) is shown. The proximal body (7100) includes a first shield (7102) and a second shield (7104) that are configured to be coupled together to form the proximal body (7100). As will be described in more detail below, the first shield (7102) and the second shield (7104) include complementary coupling features that are configured to prevent inadvertent disassembly of the proximal body (7100) during exemplary use, but also allow a user to separate the shields (7102, 7104) after the exemplary use to collect internal components for disposal.

[0119] In the present example, the proximal body (7100) is shown as a hand piece, such that the proximal body (7100) can be used to replace the hand pieces (160, 176, 185) described above. The proximal body (7100) is configured to be appropriately coupled to a shaft assembly and an end effector, such as the shaft assembly (164, 178, 186) and the end effector (166, 180, 188) described above. The shields (7102, 7104) together define a hollow interior (7105) which, when assembled, can accommodate appropriate components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the proximal body (7100) may be configured to appropriately accommodate a circuit board, a control unit, a battery, an ultrasonic transducer (162), toggle buttons (173, 174, 175, 195, 196, 197), a trigger (183, 194), etc.

[0120] Each shield (7102, 7104) in this embodiment includes corresponding complementary support ribs (7106, 7108), which can be substantially similar to the complementary support ribs (7038) described above. Each complementary support rib (7106, 7108) acts as an inner lining on the periphery of the inner surface of the corresponding shield (7102, 7104) and extends away from the corresponding recessed surface (7110, 7112). The shields (7102, 7104) are configured to be coupled together via lateral movement relative to each other. During coupling, as shown in FIG. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13B As shown, the complementary support ribs (7106, 7108) of each shield (7102, 7104) are configured to receive each other in a nested manner, such that the support rib (7106) abuts against the recessed surface (7112), and the support rib (7108) abuts against the recessed surface (7110). When the shields (7102, 7104) are properly coupled, the nested engagement between the support ribs (7106, 7108) prevents the shields (7102, 7104) from being vertically and longitudinally actuated relative to each other when coupled together. Therefore, the ribs (7106, 7108) engage with each other to prevent the shields (7102, 7104) from moving relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the lateral direction (LD).

[0121] The shields (7102, 7104) further include respective magnets (7114, 7116) located on the surface (7110) and support ribs (7108) of the respective shields (7102, 7104). Although in the current aspects of the present disclosure, the magnets (7114, 7116) are shown as being located on the surface (7110) and support ribs (7108), this is merely optional, as the magnets (7114, 7116) may be located on any suitable component of the shields (7102, 7104), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. The magnets (7114, 7116) are magnetically attracted toward each other so that when the support ribs (7106, 7108) are nested in each other, the magnetic attraction between the magnets (7114, 7116) prevents the support ribs (7106, 7108) from being laterally actuated and disengaged from each other; thereby also preventing relative movement between the shields (7102, 7104) in the lateral direction.

[0122] It should be appreciated that the magnetic attraction between the magnets (7114, 7116) is suitably strong enough so that the shields (7102, 7104) do not inadvertently separate from one another during exemplary use according to the description herein. However, when a user wishes to intentionally decouple the shields (7102, 7104) from one another to gain access to the hollow interior (7105) in order to harvest the internal components for processing, the magnetic attraction between the magnets (7114, 7116) can be overcome with a sufficient amount of force in the lateral direction. In other words, the magnets (7114, 7116) allow a user to easily decouple the shields (7102, 7104) from one another; wherein the shields (7102, 7104) remain structurally strong during exemplary use, while the shields (7102, 7104) readily separate in response to sufficient force in the vertical direction.

[0123] While magnetic attraction is used in the current example to prevent relative movement between shields (7102, 7104) in a lateral direction, any other suitable structure may be utilized to prevent relative vertical movement, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B An alternative coupling assembly (7120) is shown which may be easily incorporated into shields (7102, 7104) in place of the magnets (7114, 7116) described above.

[0124] The coupling assembly (7120) includes a resilient nub (7122) associated with the outer surface of the support rib (7108) instead of a magnet; while the coupling assembly (7120) also includes a corresponding recess (7124) defined by a complementary surface of the support rib (7106). The resilient nub (7122) and the recess (7124) are sized to interact with each other so that when they are coupled together, the friction braking force between the resilient nub (7122) and the recess (7124) prevents relative movement between the support ribs (7106, 7108). However, when a user wishes to intentionally decouple the sheaths (7102, 7104) from each other to access the hollow interior (7105) in order to harvest the internal components for processing, the friction braking force between the resilient nub (7122) and the recess (7124) can be overcome with a sufficient amount of force in the lateral direction. In other words, coupling assembly (7120) allows a user to easily decouple shields (7102, 7104) from one another; wherein shields (7102, 7104) remain structurally strong during exemplary use, while shields (7102, 7104) readily separate in response to sufficient force in a lateral direction.

[0125] In some circumstances, where the proximal body (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100) is intended to be processed for reuse or remanufacture, it may be desirable to prevent the shields (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) from being reassembled with each other or with other suitable components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) coupled to the proximal body (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100) if key components forming the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) are deformed or exceed specified tolerances. For example, one or more features of the shields (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) or other suitable components may be used as a blocking device to prevent reassembly in the event that these features become distorted or damaged outside of an acceptable tolerance range. As an example, a clamp trigger similar to the trigger (183) described above may be coupled to the proximal body (7010) via a coupling body (7034) and a coupling sleeve (7036). During exemplary use, forces acting on the trigger (183) during pivoting movement of the trigger (183) may result in damage to the coupling sleeve (7036) and / or the trigger (183), which would prevent reassembly once the shields (7012, 7014) have been properly processed for reuse (e.g., sterilized).

[0126] As described above, in some cases, after an exemplary use of the proximal body (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100), the shield (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) can be processed for reuse and / or remanufacturing. Also as described above, the hollow interior (7015, 7045, 7065, 7105) can accommodate suitable components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), such as a circuit board and a control unit, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. Therefore, where electrical components are contained within the hollow interior (7015, 7045, 7065, 7105), it may be desirable to ensure that such electrical components are properly removed from the shrouds (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) before the shrouds (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) are processed for reuse and / or remanufacturing. Ensuring that electrical components are properly removed before the shrouds (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) are processed may prevent such electrical components from being inadvertently exposed to substances used during processing that may damage the electrical components and / or render them unsuitable for further use.

[0127] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15B An exemplary proximal body (7130) is shown, which can be substantially similar to the proximal bodies (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100) described above, with the differences being described in detail below. Thus, the proximal body (7130) includes a first shield (7132) and a second shield (7134), which can be substantially similar to the shields (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) described above, with the differences being described in detail below. The shields (7132, 7134) together define a hollow interior (7135). The shield (7134) includes a bias spring (7138) interposed between an inner surface of the shield (7134) and a suitable electrical component (7136). When the shields (7132, 7134) are assembled, as described above, the proximal body (7130) can be provided with a plurality of proximal body components (7136). Fig.15A As shown, the biasing spring (7138) biases the electrical component (7136) against the first shield (7132) or any other suitable structure, thereby forcing the electrical component (7136) into a proper position within the hollow interior (7135).

[0128] After exemplary use, shields (7132, 7134) may be disassembled for disposal in accordance with the teachings herein. During disassembly, proximal body (7130) may be disassembled to remove electrical components (7136) from shield (7134) such that electrical components (7136) are not inadvertently disposed of with shield (7134). Fig. 15B As shown, once the shields (7132, 7134) are removed, the bias spring (7138) drives the electrical component (7136) away from the shield (7134), so that the electrical component (7136) is prominently presented to the user who removes the proximal body (7130). Thus, the bias spring (7138) helps drive the electrical component (7136) to the exposed position, so that the person who removes the proximal body (7130) can be reminded to further remove the electrical component (7136).

[0129] In some cases, it may be desirable to prevent a user handling shields (7132, 7134) for reuse and / or remanufacturing from inadvertently immersing electrical components (7136) into a dip tray during handling. FIG. 16A to FIG. 17B An exemplary impregnation tray (7140) is shown that can be used to process shields (7132, 7134) by exposing the used shields (7132, 7134) to a suitable cleaning fluid to clean the shields (7132, 7134). The impregnation tray (7140) includes a body (7142) that defines a reservoir (7146) that can hold a suitable cleaning fluid. The impregnation tray (7140) also includes a perimeter (7144) that defines an opening that is sized to receive the shield (7134) for processing. FIG. 16A to FIG. 16B As shown, perimeter (7144) is sized to have a particular geometry that may prevent shield (7134) from being properly received within reservoir (7146) if electrical component (7136) is not removed from shield (7134). FIG. 17A to FIG. 17B As shown, the perimeter (7144) is sized to have a specific geometry that allows the shield (7134) to be properly received within the reservoir (7146) if the electrical component (7136) is removed from the shield (7134). Thus, if a user inadvertently leaves the electrical component (7136) attached to the shield (7134), when the user attempts to insert the shield (7143) into the dip tray (7140), the user may be prompted to remove the electrical component (7136) because the shield (7134) will not fit properly within the dip tray (7140).

[0130] 18A to 18CAnother exemplary proximal body (7150) is shown, which can be substantially similar to the proximal bodies (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100, 7130) described above, with the differences being described in detail below. Thus, the proximal body (7150) includes a sheath (7152) that can define a hollow interior (7155). As described herein, the sheath (7152) includes a hatch assembly (7156) that is configured to provide suitable access to the hollow interior (7155).

[0131] The hatch assembly (7156) includes a hatch door (7158) removably coupled to an opening (7164) defined by the jacket (7152), a bar code (7160), and an electrical latch assembly (7162). The latch assembly (7162) is configured to lock the hatch door (7158) such that removal of the hatch door (7158) from the opening (7164) is prevented unless the bar code (7160) is properly scanned. Fig.18B As shown, once the user desires to remove the hatch door (7158), the user may scan the barcode (7160) with a suitable device. Scanning the barcode (7160) may instruct the latch assembly (7162) to unlock the hatch door (7158), allowing the user to remove the hatch door (7158) to provide access to the hollow interior (7155), as shown. Fig.18C Thus, the proximal body (7150) can be structurally strong during exemplary use while still providing access to the hollow interior (7155) for collection of internal components.

[0132] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C Another exemplary proximal body (7170) is shown, which can be substantially similar to the proximal bodies (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100, 7130, 7150) described above, with the differences being described in detail below. Thus, the proximal body (7170) includes a sheath (7172) that can define a hollow interior (7165). As described herein, the sheath (7172) includes a hatch assembly (7176) that is configured to provide suitable access to the hollow interior (7175).

[0133] The hatch assembly (7176) includes a hatch door (7178) removably coupled to an opening (7188) defined by the shroud (7172), a pivoting latch (7180) pivotally coupled to the shroud (7172), and a locking protrusion (7186) within the hollow interior (7175). The pivoting latch (7180) includes a magnet (7182) on one end and a latch body (7184) on the other end. The pivoting latch (7180) can be moved toward Fig.19AThe locked position shown is biased. In the locked position, the pivot latch (7180) prevents the hatch door (7178) from being removed from the shield (7172). If the user desires to remove the hatch door (7178), the user can wave a suitable magnet (M) over the hatch door (7178), such as Fig.19B Magnetic attraction between magnet (M) and magnet (7182) may cause pivot latch (7180) to pivot to an unlocked position, thereby allowing hatch door (7178) to be removed to provide access to hollow interior (7175), as shown. Fig.19C Thus, the proximal body (7170) can be structurally strong during exemplary use while still providing access to the hollow interior (7175) for collection of internal components.

[0134] FIG. 20A to FIG. 20C Another exemplary proximal body (7190) is shown, which can be substantially similar to the proximal bodies (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100, 7130, 7150, 7170) described above, with the differences being described in detail below. Thus, the proximal body (7190) includes a sheath (7192) that can define a hollow interior (7195). According to the description herein, the sheath (7192) includes a metal frame window (7196) that is configured to provide suitable access to the hollow interior (7175). Specifically, as described herein, Fig. 20B As shown, the user can expose the metal frame window (7196) to a suitable heat source. Once the metal frame window (7196) has the appropriate amount of thermal energy, the metal frame window (7196) can melt the adjacent portion of the sheathing (7192), thereby creating a removable door (7198). Fig. 20C As shown, door (7198) may then be removed to provide access to hollow interior (7195). Thus, proximal body (7190) may be structurally robust during exemplary use while still providing access to hollow interior (7195) for collection of internal components.

[0135] FIG. 21A to FIG. 21C Another exemplary proximal body (7200) is shown, which can be substantially similar to the proximal bodies (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100, 7130, 7150, 7170, 7190) described above, except for the differences described in detail below. The proximal body (7200) also includes a power connector (7202) configured to selectively electrically couple with a complementary power connector feature (7204) of a power cord (7206). FIG. 21B to FIG. 21C As best shown in FIG. 7 , power connections ( 7202 , 7204 ) are configured to remain connected together unless the connection is severed using an interactive device ( 7208 ). The interactive device ( 7208 ) may be a physical key or an electrically activated release mechanism.

[0136] III. Exemplary Disposal Bags for Disposal of Used Surgical Instruments Features

[0137] As described above, objects that leave the sterile field after a surgical procedure generally require special considerations when handling for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing. In some cases, the used surgical instruments may be disassembled into various predetermined categories and inserted into suitable transport bags to transport the disassembled surgical features for appropriate disposal. It may be desirable that the transport bag be easy to fill and / or prevent discharge / leakage / spillage / transfer of biohazardous materials contained in the transport bag when filled with the features of the used surgical instruments. In addition, it may be desirable that the transport bag facilitates determination of whether the stored components are suitable for reuse and / or remanufacturing.

[0138] FIG. 22A to FIG. 22D An exemplary processing bag assembly (7210) is shown that can be used to transport spent surgical features for suitable disposal. The processing bag assembly (7210) is formed of a suitable processing bag (7212) that is configured to isolate the stored surgical components from the external environment. Thus, the inner surface of the bag (7212) can be isolated from the outer surface of the bag (7212). The bag (7212) defines a sealable opening (7218) that can be selectively opened to place a spent surgical component (7215) into the interior of the bag (7212) and then subsequently closed to create a seal such that the surgical component (7215) is properly isolated from the external environment.

[0139] like FIG. 22A to FIG. 22C As shown, bag assembly (7210) includes a pre-applied, closable adhesive and / or bonding element (7216) that enables bag assembly (7210) to be opened so that surgical components (7215) can be deposited into the bag via sealable opening (7218). Fig. 22C and Fig.22D As shown, adhesive and / or bonding element (7216) is configured to reclose opening (7218) of bag (7212) to subsequently re-isolate the interior of bag (7212) from the external environment. Any suitable type of adhesive and / or bonding element may be utilized, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings herein.

[0140] The bag assembly (7210) also includes a biasing device (7214) located on or within a portion of the bag (7212) adjacent to the opening (7218). The biasing device (7214) can help to align the opening (7218) toward the FIG. 22B to FIG. 22CThe open position shown is biased so that a user within a sterile environment can easily deposit used surgical components within the bag (7212) without having to contact and / or contaminate the outer surface of the bag (7212). The biasing device (7214) can be appropriately overcome to close the opening (7218). The adhesive and / or bonding element (7216) is strong enough to overcome the bias of the biasing device (7214) to close and seal the opening (7218) for suitable transportation as described herein.

[0141] Fig.23 Another exemplary processing bag assembly (7220) is shown that can be used to transfer spent surgical features for suitable disposal. The processing bag assembly (7220) can be substantially similar to the processing bag assembly (7210) described above, with the differences being described in detail herein. The processing bag assembly (7220) includes a processing bag (7222) that can be substantially similar to the processing bag (7212). In addition, the processing bag assembly (7220) includes a gas shielding / flammable control feature (7224) that is configured to enable fireproofing and / or electrical isolation of the interior of the bag (7222). The gas shielding / flammable control feature (7224) can include any suitable structure, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the gas shielding / flammable control feature (7224) can include a valve that is configured to enable communication with a suction source to remove oxygen from the interior of the bag (7222). As another example, the gas shielding / flammability control feature (7224) may include a flame retardant material lining the interior of the bag (7222).

[0142] Fig.24 Another exemplary processing bag assembly (7225) is shown that can be used to transfer spent surgical features for suitable disposal. The processing bag assembly (7225) can be substantially similar to the processing bag assemblies (7210, 7220) described above, with differences described in detail herein. The processing bag assembly (7225) includes a processing bag (7225) that can be substantially similar to the processing bags (7212, 7222). In addition, the processing bag assembly (7225) includes a set of instructions or indications of processing options (7228). For example, the instructions or indications of processing options (7228) can include instructions for disposal, or warnings about disposal issues for items that are expected to be sealed within the bag. In some cases, the bag (7226) can be identified by color to indicate the disposal path expected for the items within the bag (7226).

[0143] Fig.25Another exemplary processing bag assembly (7230) is shown that can be used to transfer used surgical features for suitable disposal. The processing bag assembly (7230) can be substantially similar to the processing bag assemblies (7210, 7220, 7225) described above, with differences described in detail herein. The processing bag assembly (7230) includes a processing bag (7232), which can be substantially similar to the processing bags (7212, 7222, 7225). In addition, the processing bag assembly (7230) includes a rigid tray (7234) fixed within the interior of the bag (7332). The tray (7234) can include complementary recessed portions sized to receive specific portions of used surgical instruments. Thus, the bag assembly (7230) can act as both a discrete retaining frame and a sealing bag. In addition, the tray (7234) includes a restraining buckle (7236) and a restraining device (7238), which can be configured to further secure specific portions of used surgical instruments contained within the tray (7234).

[0144] Fig.26 Another exemplary processing bag assembly (7240) is shown that can be used to transport used surgical features for suitable disposal. The processing bag assembly (7240) can be substantially similar to the processing bag assemblies (7210, 7220, 7225, 7230) described above, with differences described in detail herein. The processing bag assembly (7240) includes a processing bag (7242), which can be substantially similar to the processing bags (7212, 7222, 7225, 7232). The processing bag assembly (7240) also includes a tray (7243), which can be substantially similar to the tray (7243) described above. In addition, the tray (7243) includes an electrical connector (7244) configured to establish electrical communication with a specific portion of the used surgical instrument contained in the tray (7243). The electrical connector (7244) is in communication with an external electrical coupling (7248) fixed to the exterior of the bag (7242). After the portions of the used surgical instruments are properly loaded into the tray (7243), the user may use a suitable electrical instrument to provide a small voltage or power to the package via the external electrical coupling (7248). The small voltage or power may be applied to the electrical features of the used surgical instruments in communication with the electrical connector (7244) to examine at least one functional aspect of the electrical features to determine whether it is possible to reuse such electrical features.

[0145] Fig. 27An exemplary shutdown cycle (7250) is shown that can be performed by the electronics of the generator module (140) or surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) to check for potential recovery and generate a label or tag to be attached to the processing bag (7212, 7222, 7225, 7232, 7242). First, after the user has completed using the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) as described herein, the user can initiate (7252) the shutdown cycle. The initiation (7252) can be accomplished using any suitable means, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings herein. Next, the electronics of the generator module (140) or surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) may perform a final functional check (7254) to determine whether appropriate components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) are capable of being reused. Next, the electronics of the generator module (140) or surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) may then determine (7256) whether features of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) should be sterilized or disposed of. Using this determination, the printer may then print (7258) a label to be placed on the processing bag (7212, 7222, 7225, 7232, 7242) indicating the determination made above. Thus, after an exemplary use of surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156), labels may be generated and placed on processing bags (7212, 7222, 7225, 7232, 7242) to indicate the intended processing paths of features of surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156).

[0146] IV. Exemplary Combinations

[0147] The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the coverage of any claims that may be provided at any time in this patent application or in the subsequent submissions of this patent application. It is not intended to make a disclaimer. The following examples are provided only for illustrative purposes. It is envisioned that the various teachings herein may be arranged and applied in a variety of other ways. It is also envisioned that some variations may omit certain features mentioned in the following examples. Therefore, any of the aspects or features mentioned below should not be considered decisive unless otherwise explicitly indicated by the inventor or the successor with an interest in the inventor at a later date. If any claim proposed in this patent application or in the subsequent submissions related to this patent application includes additional features other than those mentioned below, these additional features should not be assumed to be added for any reason related to patentability.

[0148] Example 1

[0149] A surgical instrument comprises: (a) an end effector configured to be transitioned between a deactivated configuration and an activated configuration, wherein the end effector is configured to transmit energy to tissue in the activated configuration; and (b) a proximal body operably attached to the end effector, wherein the proximal body comprises: (i) an electrical component configured to assist the end effector; (ii) a first shield; (iii) a second shield configured to be coupled to the first shield to cooperatively define a hollow interior, wherein the electrical component is contained within the hollow interior; (iv) a first restriction feature associated with the first shield; and (v) a second restriction feature associated with the second shield, wherein the first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be coupled together to cooperatively align the first shield and the second shield, wherein the first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be selectively disengaged to allow the first shield and the second shield to be disengaged from each other and expose the electrical component within the hollow interior.

[0150] Example 2

[0151] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first restraining feature comprises a resilient latch, wherein the second restraining feature comprises a locking shoulder.

[0152] Example 3

[0153] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the resilient latch is configured to be selectively disengaged from the locking shoulder to enable the first shield and the second shield to be decoupled.

[0154] Example 4

[0155] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second shield defines an access aperture configured to provide access to the resilient latch when the resilient latch is engaged with the locking shoulder.

[0156] Example 5

[0157] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be coupled by actuation in a vertical direction.

[0158] Example 6

[0159] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be coupled by actuation in a horizontal direction.

[0160] Example 7

[0161] The surgical instrument of any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first restriction feature comprises a first magnet, wherein the second restriction feature comprises a second magnet.

[0162] Example 8

[0163] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be coupled together in a snap-fit ​​manner.

[0164] Example 9

[0165] The surgical instrument of any one or more of the preceding embodiments further comprises a biasing feature interposed between the electrical component and an interior of the second shield.

[0166] Example 10

[0167] The surgical instrument of any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the biasing feature is configured to drive the electrical component away from the second shield in response to the first shield and the second shield initially being decoupled.

[0168] Embodiment 11

[0169] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first restricting feature comprises a torque screw, and wherein the second restricting feature comprises a female threaded sleeve.

[0170] Example 12

[0171] The surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the proximal body comprises a handle.

[0172] Embodiment 13

[0173] The surgical instrument of any one or more of the foregoing embodiments further comprises a shaft assembly extending between the handle and the end effector.

[0174] Embodiment 14

[0175] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the end effector comprises an ultrasonic blade.

[0176] Embodiment 15

[0177] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the end effector comprises an electrode.

[0178] Example 16

[0179] The surgical instrument of any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first and second restriction features are configured to prevent reassembly of the proximal body when damaged.

[0180] Embodiment 17

[0181] A surgical instrument comprises: (a) an end effector configured to transition between a deactivated configuration and an activated configuration, wherein the end effector is configured to transmit energy to tissue in the activated configuration; and (b) a proximal body operably attached to the end effector, wherein the proximal body comprises: (i) an electrical component configured to assist the end effector; (ii) a first shield; (iii) a second shield configured to couple with the first shield to cooperatively define a hollow interior; and (iv) a limiting feature comprising a latch configured to be actuated between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the latch is configured to prevent the first shield from separating from the second shield in the locked position, and wherein the latch is configured to allow the first shield to be detached from the second shield in the unlocked position.

[0182] Embodiment 18

[0183] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the latch comprises a resilient leg configured to flex between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0184] Embodiment 19

[0185] A surgical instrument comprises: (a) an end effector configured to transition between a deactivated configuration and an activated configuration, wherein the end effector is configured to transmit energy to tissue in the activated configuration; and (b) a proximal body operably attached to the end effector, wherein the proximal body comprises: (i) electrical components configured to assist the end effector; (ii) a shield assembly defining a hollow interior; (iii) a hatch door associated with the shield, wherein the hatch door is configured to be selectively separated from the shield to expose the hollow interior; and (iv) a locking feature configured to selectively prevent the hatch door from being separated from the shield.

[0186] Embodiment 20

[0187] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of the preceding examples, wherein the locking feature comprises a magnetic pivot latch.

[0188] V. Miscellaneous

[0189] Versions of the above-described devices may find application in traditional medical treatments and surgeries performed by medical professionals, as well as robotic-assisted medical treatments and surgeries.

[0190] It should be understood that any type of apparatus described herein may also include various other features in addition to or as an alternative to those described above. By way of example only, any of the apparatus described herein may also include one or more of the various feature structures disclosed in any of the various references incorporated herein by reference. It should also be understood that the teachings herein may be readily applied to any apparatus described in any other reference cited herein, such that the teachings herein may be readily combined with the teachings in any reference cited herein in a variety of ways. Other types of apparatus that may incorporate the teachings herein will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0191] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9447USNP1.0754992], entitled "Surgical System and Methods for Instrument Assessment and Cleaning" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9447USNP1.0754992] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0192] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9448USNP1.0754994], entitled "Surgical System and Methods for Instrument Assessment and Cleaning" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9448USNP1.0754994] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0193] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9448USNP2.0754977], entitled "Surgical System and Methods for Instrument Assessment and Cleaning" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9448USNP2.0754977] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0194] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9448USNP3.0754979], entitled "Surgical System and Methods for Instrument Assessment and Cleaning" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9448USNP3.0754979] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0195] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9449USNP1.0754981], entitled "Surgical System and Methods for Instrument Assessment and Cleaning" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9449USNP1.0754981] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0196] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP1.0754983], entitled "Surgical System and Methods for Instrument Assessment and Cleaning" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of the U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP1.0754983] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0197] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP2.0754999], entitled "Surgical System and Methods for Instrument Assessment and Cleaning" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP2.0754999] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0198] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP4.0755006], entitled "Surgical System and Methods for Instrument Assessment and Cleaning" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP4.0755006] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0199] It should also be understood that any range of values ​​referenced herein should be understood to include the upper and lower limits of such ranges. For example, a range expressed as "between about 1.0 inches and about 1.5 inches" should be understood to include about 1.0 inches and about 1.5 inches, in addition to including values ​​between these upper and lower limits.

[0200] It should be understood that any patent, patent publication, or other public material, whether in whole or in part, allegedly incorporated herein by reference is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other public materials listed in the present disclosure. Therefore, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure explicitly listed herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material or portion thereof allegedly incorporated herein by reference but conflicting with existing definitions, statements, or other public materials listed herein will be incorporated only to the extent that there is no conflict between the incorporated material and the existing public materials.

[0201] The patterns described above can be designed to be discarded after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case or both, these patterns can be repaired to be reused after at least one use. Repair can include any combination of the following steps: disassembling the device, then cleaning or replacing specific parts and subsequently reassembling. Specifically, some patterns of 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. When cleaning and / or replacing specific parts, some patterns of the device can be reassembled at a repair facility or reassembled by the operator before surgery is about to be performed for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the repair of the device can be disassembled, cleaned / replaced, and reassembled using a variety of techniques. The use of such technology and the resulting repair device are all within the scope of the present application.

[0202] By way of example only, the types described herein may be sterilized before and / or after a procedure. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container such as a plastic bag or a TYVEK bag. The container and device may then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation may kill bacteria on the device and in the container. The sterilized device may then be stored in a sterile container for later use. The device may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

[0203] Various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, and further improvements of the methods and systems described herein may be achieved by appropriate modifications by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. Several such possible modifications have been mentioned, and other modifications will be apparent to those of skill in the art. For example, the embodiments, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, etc. discussed above are illustrative and not required. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be considered in light of the following claims, and should be understood not to be limited to the details of the structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

Claims

1. A surgical instrument comprising: (a) an end effector configured to transition between a deactivated configuration and an activated configuration, wherein the end effector is configured to transmit energy to tissue in the activated configuration; and (b) a proximal body operably attached to the end effector, wherein the proximal body comprises: (i) an electrical component configured to assist the end effector; (ii) a first shield; (iii) a second shield configured to be coupled with the first shield to cooperatively define a hollow interior, wherein the electrical component is accommodated within the hollow interior; (iv) a first restriction feature associated with the first shield; and (v) a second restriction feature associated with the second shield, wherein the first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be coupled together to cooperatively align the first shield and the second shield, and wherein the first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be selectively disengaged to allow the first shield and the second shield to be disengaged from each other and expose the electrical components within the hollow interior.

2. The surgical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The first restraining feature comprises a resilient latch, wherein the second restraining feature comprises a locking shoulder.

3. The surgical instrument according to claim 2, wherein: The resilient latch is configured to be selectively disengaged from the locking shoulder to enable the first shield and the second shield to be decoupled.

4. The surgical instrument according to claim 3, wherein: The second shield defines an access aperture configured to provide access to the resilient latch when the resilient latch is engaged with the locking shoulder.

5. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be coupled by actuation in a vertical direction.

6. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be coupled by actuation in a horizontal direction.

7. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first restriction feature comprises a first magnet, wherein the second restriction feature comprises a second magnet.

8. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be coupled together in a snap-fit ​​manner.

9. The surgical instrument of any preceding claim, further comprising a biasing feature interposed between the electrical component and an interior of the second shield.

10. The surgical instrument according to claim 9, wherein: The biasing feature is configured to drive the electrical component away from the second shield in response to the first shield and the second shield being initially decoupled.

11. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first restricting feature comprises a torque screw, wherein the second restricting feature comprises a female threaded sleeve.

12. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The proximal body includes a handle.

13. The surgical instrument of claim 12, further comprising a shaft assembly extending between the handle and the end effector.

14. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The end effector includes an ultrasonic knife.

15. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The end effector includes an electrode.

16. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first and second restriction features are configured to prevent reassembly of the proximal body when damaged.

17. A surgical instrument comprising: (a) an end effector configured to transition between a deactivated configuration and an activated configuration, wherein the end effector is configured to transmit energy to tissue in the activated configuration; and (b) a proximal body operably attached to the end effector, wherein the proximal body comprises: (i) an electrical component configured to assist the end effector; (ii) a first shield; (iii) a second shield configured to be coupled with the first shield to cooperatively define a hollow interior; (iv) a limiting feature comprising a latch configured to be actuated between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the latch is configured to prevent the first shield from separating from the second shield in the locked position, and wherein the latch is configured to allow the first shield to be disassembled from the second shield in the unlocked position.

18. The surgical instrument of claim 17, wherein: The latch includes a resilient leg configured to flex between the locked position and the unlocked position.

19. A surgical instrument comprising: (a) an end effector configured to transition between a deactivated configuration and an activated configuration, wherein the end effector is configured to transmit energy to tissue in the activated configuration; and (b) a proximal body operably attached to the end effector, wherein the proximal body comprises: (i) an electrical component configured to assist the end effector; (ii) a shroud assembly defining a hollow interior; (iii) a hatch door associated with the shroud, wherein the hatch door is configured to be selectively detachable from the shroud to expose the hollow interior; and (iv) a locking feature configured to selectively prevent separation of the hatch door from the shield.

20. The surgical instrument of claim 19, wherein: The locking feature includes a magnetic pivoting latch.

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