Bone grinder with accessible grinding element

Abstract

A grinding module (60) for converting aggregate into bone chips includes a housing (34) adapted to be releasably attached to a base module (32). The housing has an inlet opening (152) through which aggregate is introduced into the housing, and an outlet opening (96) through which bone chips are discharged from the housing. A grinding element (170) is movably disposed in the housing between the inlet opening and the outlet opening for converting aggregate into bone chips. The housing includes a base (62) adapted to be releasably attached to the base module. The base includes the outlet opening and a cover (126) removably attached thereto. The cover includes the inlet opening of the housing. The base and the cover are collectively configured such that removing the cover from the base allows access to the grinding element.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application date of May 25, 2018, application number 201880049907.3, and invention name “Bone grinder with accessible grinding element”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application is a national phase application of International Patent Application No. PCT / US2018 / 034700, filed on May 25, 2018, which claims priority to and all advantages of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 511,590, filed on May 26, 2017. The entire contents of these applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure generally relates to bone grinders for forming bone chips for use in surgical procedures. More particularly, the present disclosure generally relates to a bone grinder including a grinding element that is accessible to remove bone chips adhered thereto. Background Art

[0005] In some surgical procedures, sliced-size bone is used as a filler adjacent to intact bone. For example, in spinal fusion surgery, it is known to place a composite comprising ground bone chips around implanted rods. These rods align the adjacent vertebrae. The composite acts as a lattice upon which the tissue forming the vertebrae grows, thereby forming a foundation for the bone around the rods. This foundation distributes the loads applied to the rods. Bone chips can also be placed in the intervertebral disc space or within a cage positioned in the intervertebral disc space.

[0006] Bone chips can also be used as fillers and / or grown to form lattices in orthopedic and maxillofacial surgery. In these procedures, bone chips are used as fillers and / or grown to form lattices because the proteins that form bone serve as the building blocks from which the progenitor cells of adjacent living bone cells form new bone.

[0007] The ideal source of bone for bone chips is the patient into whom they will be implanted. This is because the patient's own bone is less likely to be rejected by the patient's immune system than a donor's bone. Therefore, in surgeries requiring bone chips, bone is often harvested from a single bone in the patient's body that can tolerate the loss of a small amount of bone (usually between 0.25 and 3 cubic centimeters). Bone removed from a patient's body to be transplanted into another part of the patient is called autologous bone graft.

[0008] Converting autologous bone into bone chips can be considered a two-part process. In the first part of the process, the collected bone is cleaned to remove ligaments and other soft tissues that are not suitable for forming bone chips. The cleaned bone is then ground into bone chips. Applicant's U.S. Patent Application Publication US 2009 / 0118735A1 / PCT Publication WO 2009 / 061728A1 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62 / 197,780 / PCT Application PCT / US2016 / 044386 (each of which is incorporated herein by reference) disclose an electrically operated bone grinder that can convert aggregate into bone chips. In general, the bone grinders of these documents include a housing with a top opening and first and second bottom openings. The first bottom opening is located below the top opening. The second bottom opening is located inside the first bottom opening. A grinding head, sometimes referred to as a cutting disc, is rotatably disposed in the housing, between the top opening and the bottom opening. The housing is shaped to be releasably coupled to a base module. Inside the base module is a motor. The motor rotates the spindle. When the bone grinder is placed on the base module, the spindle passes through the second bottom opening and engages the grinding head. Rotation of the spindle thus causes similar rotation of the grinding head. A catch pan is attached to the housing so as to be located below the first bottom opening.

[0009] Bone chips are formed using the bone grinder described above by inserting aggregate into a top opening while simultaneously rotating the grinding head. The grinding head is designed to push the aggregate against a stationary impact surface near the top opening. Pressing the aggregate against the impact surface results in shearing a relatively large volume of aggregate into a plurality of smaller bone chips. Many of the bone chips pass through the opening in the grinder head and fall through the first bottom opening into a catch pan. At the end of the grinding process, the catch pan is removed from the housing. The bone chips retained in the catch pan are then available for the surgeon to fill.

[0010] The bone grinder described above is a useful device in surgery for breaking bone material into smaller sized bone chips.

[0011] When collecting aggregate to convert it into bone chips, ideally no more aggregate is collected than is needed to provide the necessary volume of bone chips. This is because minimizing the volume of aggregate collected from the patient also minimizes trauma to the bone from which it is collected and to the tissue surrounding the bone. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The particularity of the present disclosure is set forth in the claims. The above and other features and benefits of the present disclosure will be understood from the following detailed description given in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 is an exploded view showing how the bone grinder of the present disclosure is releasably mounted to a base module capable of actuating the bone grinder;

[0014] Figure 2 is a block diagram of the electrical components of the bone grinder of the present disclosure and the markings integral with the grinder head;

[0015] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the bone grinder of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of the base of the housing of the bone grinder;

[0017] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A top view of the foundation;

[0018] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A side view of the foundation;

[0019] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the foundation;

[0020] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a cover of a housing of a bone grinder;

[0021] Figure 9 It is a top plan view of the cover;

[0022] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the cover;

[0023] Figure 11 It is the top view of the cover;

[0024] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the top of the shaft to which the grinding element is attached;

[0025] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the bottom of the shaft to which the grinding element is attached;

[0026] Figure 14 It is a perspective view of the plunger of a bone grinder;

[0027] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a catch pan and a marker attached to the catch pan;

[0028] Figure 16A is a perspective view of a grinding module including a cover attached to a base and having a cutting element between the cover and the base, the cutting element including a cutting disk, a shaft, and a spring;

[0029] Figure 16B yes Figure 16A A cross-sectional view of the grinding module along line AA;

[0030] Figure 17Ais a perspective view of a grinding module including a cover not attached to a base and a cutting element including a cutting disk, a shaft, and a spring;

[0031] Figure 17B yes Figure 17A A cross-sectional view of the grinding module along line AA;

[0032] Figure 18A is a perspective view of a grinding module including a cover attached to a base and having a cutting element between the cover and the base, the cutting element including a cutting disk, a shaft, and a spring;

[0033] Figure 18B yes Figure 18A A cross-sectional view of the grinding module along line AA;

[0034] Figure 18C yes Figure 18A and 18B An enlarged perspective view of the shaft and spring;

[0035] Figure 18D yes Figure 18C A cross-sectional view of the shaft and spring along line BB;

[0036] Figure 19A is a perspective view of a grinding module including a cover not attached to a base and a cutting element including a cutting disk, a shaft, and a spring;

[0037] Figure 19B yes Figure 19A A cross-sectional view of the grinding module along line AA;

[0038] Figure 19C yes Figure 19A and 19B an enlarged perspective view of the shaft and spring; and

[0039] Figure 19D yes Figure 19C Cross-sectional view of the shaft and spring along line BB. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The bone grinding machine of the present disclosure is configured to ensure that bone chips generated during the grinding process are recovered as much as possible. This ensures that, for a given amount of ground aggregate, the maximum amount of bone chips is generated for the surgical procedure requiring the use of the bone chips.

[0041] The bone grinder of the present disclosure is further designed to reduce the likelihood that the grinding elements configured to reduce aggregate to bone chips will fail to activate if the bone grinder is not properly configured for use. This ensures that the likelihood that activation of the grinding elements could cause damage or physical injury if the bone grinder is not properly configured is largely eliminated.

[0042] The present disclosure is directed to a bone grinder comprising a housing. The housing includes at least an inlet opening. A grinding element is disposed below the inlet opening. The grinding element converts aggregate into bone flakes. In one form of the disclosure, the grinding element is configured to push the aggregate against an impact plate. The impact plate is integral with the housing or secured to the housing. Due to the action of the grinding element pushing the aggregate against the impact plate, the aggregate is sheared into bone flakes having a size / volume smaller than the aggregate. Most of the bone flakes fall below the grinding element. In many forms of the disclosure, the bone flakes fall into a catch pan. The catch pan is removable from the housing.

[0043] The bone grinding machine disclosed herein is further designed such that the housing includes a base to which a removable cover is attached. The removability of the cover provides access to the grinding element. Once the cover is removed, the grinding element can be removed through an opening in the base previously covered by the cover. In many embodiments of the present disclosure, the grinding element includes a handle.

[0044] Once bone chips have been formed using the disclosed grinding element, the cover is removed. The grinding element is removed from the housing. Using a suitable tool, such as a scraper, the bone chips adhering to the grinding element are scraped off the grinding element into a container for holding the bone chips. Typically, during this portion of the process, the person recovering the bone chips, which would otherwise have been discarded, typically holds the grinding element by its handle.

[0045] Another feature of the present disclosure is a detection member attached to the cover. A complementary sensor in the unit for actuating the cutting element detects the presence or absence of the detection member. If the presence of the detection member is not detected, the unit interprets the bone grinder as being in a state where the cover is not properly secured to the base. Consequently, the unit does not permit actuation of the bone grinder.

[0046] In many embodiments of the present disclosure, the receptacle into which the bone fragments fall is the void space / collection pool of a catch pan. The catch pan is removably attached to the housing. In these embodiments of the present disclosure, the catch pan is typically provided with a detection component separate from the detection component attached to the lid. In these embodiments of the present disclosure, the bone grinder is designed so that the detection components must be aligned with one another in order for the sensor in the drive unit to detect either detection component. If the sensor does not detect the presence of one or both detection components, the bone grinder does not operate. This alerts the individual performing the grinding process that the bone grinder may be in a state where the lid is not secured to the base and / or the catch pan is not properly positioned in the housing.

[0047] In some forms of the present disclosure, the housing is further configured such that the inlet opening is formed in the removable cover. In some forms of the present disclosure, the housing is further configured to have an outlet opening in the base through which the bone fragments fall into the catch pan. In some embodiments of this form of the invention, the outlet opening is at least partially aligned with the inlet opening.

[0048] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing includes features that facilitate releasable coupling of the grinding module to a base module that drives the grinding element. In these embodiments of the present invention, the grinding element is formed with features that releasably couple the grinding element to a drive spindle that actuates the grinding element. Typically, the grinding element drive features that releasably couple the grinding element to the drive spindle are accessible through a specific opening in the housing, which is provided in part for this purpose.

[0049] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the grinding element is configured to rotate within the housing. In certain specific embodiments of this embodiment of the present disclosure, a shaft transmits the rotational motion of the drive spindle to the grinding element, thereby rotating the grinding element. In these embodiments of the present disclosure, the shaft is dual-functional. In addition to serving as a drive rod, the shaft also serves as a handle to be grasped when retrieving bone fragments adhered to the grinding element.

[0050] Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent like parts throughout the several views, Figure 1 A new and useful bone grinder is shown at 30. The bone grinder 30 is also referred to herein as a bone grinding system ("system") 30. The system 30 is modular; the system 30 includes a base module 32 to which a grinding module 60 (sometimes called a grinder head) is removably attached.

[0051] The base module 32 includes a base housing 34. The base housing 34 is the outer shell of the base module 32. The base housing 34 has a top surface 36. Inside the base housing 34 is a motor 38, represented by a dashed cylinder. A drive spindle 40 is also inside the base housing 34. The drive spindle 40 has a head that extends through an opening in the top surface 36 of the base housing 34. The motor 38 drives the drive spindle 40. When the grinding module 60 is attached to the base module 32, the drive spindle 40 engages the grinding element 170. Rotation of the drive spindle 40 causes similar rotation of the grinding element 170.

[0052] The base module 32 may include a plurality of lugs 44 (at Figure 1). The lugs 44 are movably mounted to the base housing 34 so as to extend out of the base housing 34 and back into the base housing 34 below the top surface 36. A linkage assembly 46, represented by a single dashed rod, is disposed in the base housing 34. Generally, the lugs 44 are disposed outwardly from the base housing 34. The linkage assembly 46 is configured to cooperate with fingers 48 to selectively retract the lugs 44 into the base housing 34. One of the identified fingers 48 is movably mounted on the outside of the base housing 34. The fingers 48 are connected to the linkage assembly 46. The lugs 44, linkage assembly 46, and fingers 48 are collectively configured to extend the lugs outwardly. As a result of the displacement of the fingers 48, the linkage assembly 46 retracts the lugs 44 into the base housing 34.

[0053] As shown in the figure, there is also a control button 52 mounted on the base housing 34. The control button 52 is part of the control circuit, and its components are Figure 1 and 2 The control circuit also includes a sensor 54. The sensor 54 is disposed in the base housing 34 below the top surface. Figure 1 In the sensor 54 Figure 1 54 detects the absence / presence of a magnetic field or some other indicator in the vicinity of the sensor. Thus, for example, the sensor 54 may be a Hall Effect sensor. The state of the control button 52 and the signal output by the sensor 54 are applied to a controller 56 also disposed in the base housing 34. The controller / control unit 56 is not shown in FIG. Figure 1 In the Figure 2 The controller 56 is connected between the power supply and the motor 38. Figure 2 , but it should be understood that the specific configuration of the power supply is not part of this disclosure. The controller 56 regulates the application of current to the motor 38 to actuate the motor 38. In many configurations of the system 30, the controller 56 is configured to actuate the motor 38 only during the period when the button 52 is pressed.

[0054] like Figure 3 As shown, the grinding module 60 includes a base 62 to which a cover 126 is removably attached. The base 62 and the cover 126 together form an outer shell or housing 61 of the grinding module 60. The housing 61 is adapted to be releasably attached to the base module 32. The housing 61 has an inlet opening 152 through which aggregate is introduced into the housing 61 and an outlet opening 96 through which bone fragments are discharged from the housing 61. A grinding element 170 is movably disposed in the housing 61 between the inlet opening 152 and the outlet opening 96 for converting aggregate into bone fragments. The grinding element 170 includes features for removably attaching the grinding element 170 to the base module motor 38 such that actuation of the motor 38 causes actuation of the grinding element 170.

[0055] The base 62 of the grinding module 60 is adapted to be releasably attached to the base module 32. Figure 4-7 As shown, the base 62 may include a rim 64 that forms the bottom portion of the base. The rim 64 is sized to fit around the perimeter of the top surface 36 of the base module 32. The rim 64 is formed with a plurality of openings 66. The mill head base 62 is formed so that when the grinding module 60 is positioned above the base module top surface 36, each of the lugs 44 integral with the base module 32 can be positioned within and extend through the openings 66. In other words, the base 62 includes a rim 64 having a plurality of openings 66 and is sized to fit around the perimeter of the top surface 36 of the base module 32, wherein when the base 62 is so positioned, the lugs 44 on the base module 32 extend through the plurality of openings 66, becoming integral with the plurality of openings 66 and properly attaching the grinding module 60 to the base module 32. Sidewalls 68 extend upwardly and inwardly from the rim 64. An opening 70 extends through one of the sidewalls 68. The base module 32 is also formed with a top panel 74. A top panel 74 extends inwardly from the top end of the topmost side wall 68. The top panel 74 is further formed with an opening 76. The opening 76 leads into a void extending inwardly from the opening 70.

[0056] The base 62 of the grinding module 60 is further formed with a concave surface 92 that can be located below the top panel 74 and can be generally circular. The base 62 is formed so as to have two openings in the concave surface 92. The openings, such as opening 94, are circular and concentric with the center of the concave surface 92.

[0057] The base 62 includes an outlet opening 96. The outlet opening 96 extends inward from the outer periphery of the recessed surface 92. The outlet opening 96 opens into a gap below the panels 74 and 92 extending inward from the opening 70. A ring 98 extends upward from the recessed surface 92 and circumferentially surrounds the opening 94. The ring 98 acts as a barrier between the opening 94 and the outlet opening 96. The base 62 has a second ring 102 that also extends upward from the recessed surface 92. The ring 102 is positioned immediately inward of the outer periphery of the recessed surface 92. The ring 102 does not extend circumferentially around the recessed surface 92. Instead, the outlet opening 96 interrupts the ring 102.

[0058] The base 62 can be formed with two steps 84 and 88, which are transitional structural components of the mill head and suspend the concave surface 92 from the top panel 74. Steps 84 and 88 extend arcuately around the opening 75 in the top panel 74, in which the concave surface 92 is disposed. The topmost step, step 84, includes a vertical portion, not identified. This vertical portion is a structural feature of step 84 that is perpendicular to the plane of the top panel 74 and extends downward from the top panel in the gravity reference plane. The vertical portion of step 88 is that portion of step 88 that extends upward from the outer edge of step 88 to the inner edge of step 84. The base 62 is formed such that step 88 is spaced radially outward from the ring 102. It should also be understood that step 88 is disposed above the top surface of the ring 102 relative to the concave surface 92.

[0059] The base 62 is further formed with a plurality of notches 106 extending inwardly from the perimeter of the top panel 74 defining the opening 75. Figure 4 、 5 Only one notch 106 is identified in each of Figures 7 and 8. Where each notch 106 is present, the vertical portion of step 84 is located radially outward of where the vertical portion would be if the notch were not present. Similarly, where each notch 106 is present, the adjacent step 84 extends radially outward of the adjacent portion of the step 84 if the notch were not present. Adjacent to each notch 106 is a recessed portion 107 in the vertical portion of step 84. Each recessed portion 107 extends arcuately away from the end of notch 106 that is integral with it.

[0060] The base 62 is formed with three notches 106, each with its own accompanying recess 107. The centrally located notch 106 is the notch farthest from the opening 70. The notches 106 on either side of the centrally located notch 106 are spaced 90 degrees from the centrally located notch 106. Specific notches 106 are not specifically identified.

[0061] The base 62 is further formed with a fourth recess, namely recess 108, extending outward from the portion of the top panel 74 that defines the opening 75. Recess 108 is formed in the base 62 diametrically opposite the centrally located recess 106 relative to the opening 94. The base 62 is formed such that recess 108 disconnects the vertical portion 82 from the step 84. A panel 110 defines the base of recess 108. Panel 110 extends between the inner surface of the side panel positioned radially outward from the vertical portion 82 integral with the step 84 and the outer surface of the vertical portion 86. Panel 110 does not extend under the entire base of recess 108. Instead, panel 110 has an opening 112 therein. Opening 112 is positioned to provide access from recess 108 into the void space extending inward from the opening 70.

[0062] The base 62 is further formed with a tubular sleeve 116 that extends downwardly from the recessed surface 92. More specifically, the sleeve 116 extends downwardly from the recessed surface 92 so as to extend around that portion of the panel that defines the perimeter of the opening 94. The system 30 is designed so that the surface 92 and the sleeve 116 are coaxial with the drive spindle 40 when the grinding module 60 is attached to the base module 32.

[0063] The base 62 also includes a cover 126. The cover 126 is removably attached to the base 62. The cover 126 includes an access opening 152 to the housing 61. The base 62 and the cover 126 are collectively configured such that removing the cover 126 from the base 62 allows access to the grinding elements 170. As described in detail below, the grinding elements 170 are removably attached to the base 62 of the housing 61.

[0064] exist Figure 8-11 As best seen in the figure, cover 126 includes a disc-shaped cap 128 defining an inner surface 129. In one embodiment, disc-shaped cap 128 is dome-shaped. Cap 128 is shaped to fit within opening 75. More specifically, the outer periphery of cap 128 is sized to rest on step 84. Cap 128 includes one or more lugs 130 that project radially outward from a cylindrical sidewall 131 of cap 128. The one or more lugs 130 are positioned and sized so that when cap 128 is positioned within opening 75 on base 62 and rotated, each lug 130 rotates into a corresponding recess 106 on base 62, becoming integral with recess 106 and properly attaching cover 126 to base 62. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, three lugs 130 project radially outward from cylindrical sidewall 131 of cap 128. The lugs 130 are positioned and sized so that each lug 130 seats in and is rotatable within a corresponding one of the recesses 106 when the cap 128 is positioned within the opening 75. In other words, the components forming the bone grinder are shaped so that the cap 128 can be rotated into the opening 75, and so that the lugs 130 can rotate into and become integral with the recesses 106 when the cover 126 is rotated.

[0065] A fourth lug, lug 136, extends radially outward from the cylindrical sidewall 131 of the cap 128. The base 62 and the cap 126 are collectively configured so that when the cap 128 is seated in the opening 75, the lug seats in the recess 108 and is rotatable therein. A toe 138 extends downwardly from one end of the lug. The base 62 and the cap 126 are further configured so that when the cap 128 is rotated, the reduced height portion 134 seats in the recess 106 to seal the bone cleaning cavity, and the toe 138 moves into alignment with the opening 112 in the base, allowing the bone grinder 30 to be used.

[0066] A first detection member 140, such as a magnet, is disposed in an opening (not shown) on the toe portion 138. That is, one of the one or more lugs 130 includes a toe portion 138 in which the magnet 140 is disposed and extends downwardly from one end of the lug 130, wherein when the cap 128 is positioned in the opening 75 on the base 62 and rotated to properly attach the cap 126 to the base 62, the toe portion 138 moves to align over the opening 112 on the base 62 when the cap 126 is properly attached to the base 62. Other positions for the first detection member are also contemplated.

[0067] Cap 128 includes one or more rings 142, 144, and 146 extending downward from an inner surface 129 of cap 128. Each ring 142, 144, and 146 is concentric with cap 128. Ring 142 is the innermost ring. Cap 126 is shaped so that when cap 126 is placed on the foundation, ring 142 of the cap is spaced no more than ±2 mm from the space subtended by ring 98, which is integral with foundation 62. Typically, ring 142 at least partially overlaps, if not completely, ring 98. Ring 144 is an intermediate ring. Ring 144 is located radially outward of ring 142. Cap 126 is shaped so that when cap 126 is placed on the foundation, ring 144 is spaced no more than ±2 mm from the space subtended by ring 102, which is integral with foundation 62. Typically, ring 144 at least partially overlaps, if not completely, ring 102. Ring 146 is located radially outward of ring 146.

[0068] The components forming the grinding module 60 are shaped so that the ring 146 rests against the step 88 when the cap 126 is fitted to the base 62. That is, the outermost ring 146 is positioned on the periphery of the cap 128 and rests against the step 88 on the base 62 when mounted to the base 62.

[0069] The cap 128 includes one or more ribs 143, 145 extending downwardly from its inner surface 129. The ribs 143, 145 are configured to push aggregate into the cutting disk 172 of the grinding element 170 when the bone grinder 30 is in operation and prevent aggregate from accumulating on the inner surface of the cap 128 or on the surface of the cutting disk 172. In some embodiments, at least one rib 145 extends inwardly from the intermediate ring 144 and extends at an angle away from the location where the rib 145 extends on the intermediate ring 144, but does not extend to the innermost ring 142, wherein the at least one rib 143 curves in the direction of rotation of the cutting disk 172. In addition, in some embodiments, at least one rib 143 extends inwardly from the innermost ring 142 and extends at an angle away from the location where the rib 145 extends on the innermost ring 142, but does not extend to the intermediate ring 144, wherein the at least one rib 143 curves in the direction of rotation of the cutting disk 172.

[0070] exist Figure 11 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , rib 143 extends outward from ring 142. As rib 143 extends outward, it extends at an angle away from the point at which it extends from the ring. Two ribs 145 extend inward from ring 144. As each rib 145 extends inward, it bends away from the point at which it extends from ring 144. In the illustrated form of the present disclosure, rib 143 does not extend to ring 144. Rib 145 does not extend to ring 142. Each of ribs 143 and 145 is understood to project downwardly from the inner surface of cap 128. Each rib 143 and 145 is understood to bend clockwise away from its associated ring 142 and 144, respectively. More specifically, each rib 143 and 145 bends in the direction of rotation of cutting disk 172 and toward a portion of the center ring of cutting scallop 176 on cutting disk 172.

[0071] In various aspects of the present disclosure, each rib 143 and 145 extends downward from the inner surface 129 of the cap 128 a distance less than the distance that the associated ring 142 and 144, respectively, extends downward from the same surface. In some aspects of the present disclosure, each rib 143 and 145 extends away from the associated ring 142 and 144, respectively, by the extent to which the rib extends downward from the cap. Thus, the rib has its maximum height adjacent to the ring from which it extends. The height of the rib 143 or 145 decreases as it extends away from the ring 142 or 144. The first rib 145 extends to the inlet opening 152. Both the rib 143 and the second rib 145, i.e., the rib 145 that terminates away from the inlet opening 152, each taper to a point.

[0072] Cap 128 is also formed with an inlet opening 152. Cap 128 is formed so that when the cap is positioned on base 62, inlet opening 152 is aligned with and above opening 94. Cap 128 is also formed with a void space 154. Void space 154 extends upwardly from an inner surface 129 of cap 128 that defines a boundary for inlet opening 152.

[0073] The cover 126 also includes a feed sleeve 156 . The feed sleeve 156 extends upwardly from an outer surface of the cap 128 and surrounds the inlet opening 152 .

[0074] Two parallel brackets 160 are also part of the cover 126. Like the feed sleeve 156, the brackets 160 extend upward from the outer surface of the cap 128. Each bracket 160 is L-shaped. More specifically, the long section of each bracket 160 extends upward from the cap 128. The short section of each bracket 160, i.e., the section perpendicular to the long section, is oriented toward each other. Figure 9A stopper 162, visible in FIG. 1 , also extends upward from the cap 128. The cap 126 is formed so that the stopper 162 extends upward from a position aligned with and spaced away from the spaces between the brackets 160. The stopper 162 has a planar shape and is disposed in a plane perpendicular to the parallel planes of the long sections of the brackets 160.

[0075] Only in Figure 3 The impact plate 164, shown in FIG, is rigidly mounted to the cover 126. More specifically, the impact plate 164 is secured within the void space 154 within the interior of the cap 128. The components comprising the grinding module 60 are configured such that the impact plate 164 has a surface 166 disposed just below the perimeter of the inlet opening 152 on the cap 128.

[0076] Only in Figure 3 The grinding element 170 of the mill head 6 as seen in FIG. 1 includes a planar cutting disc 172 of circular shape. Other shapes of the grinding element 170, i.e., non-circular, are also contemplated. Four openings 174 are arranged at equal angles around the center of the cutting disc 172, only one of which is identified. The cutting disc 172 includes features that convert aggregate into bone chips. That is, the cutting disc 172 is further formed to have a plurality of cutting scallops 176, one of which is identified. The cutting disc has a through hole 180 that is integral with each cutting scallop 176 and is axially aligned therewith in the longitudinal direction. More specifically, the cutting disc 172 is formed such that each cutting scallop 176 extends above the planar top surface of the element. The scallops 176 are ground to define cutting edges 178, one of which is identified. Each cutting edge 178 partially defines the parameters of an adjacent opening 180.

[0077] exist Figure 12 and 13As best seen in the figure, shaft 186 is also part of the grinding element 170, extending downward from the center of the cutting disk 172. In a typical embodiment, shaft 186 is permanently attached to the cutting disk 172. Shaft 186 is configured to connect to the cutting disk 172 and the drive spindle 40, and to remain attached to the cutting disk 172 and adapted to be handled during removal of the grinding element 170 from the base 62. To this end, shaft 186 extends from the cutting disk 172 and is formed with features 192 that removably couple the grinding element 170 to the motor 38 of the base module 32. Shaft 186 is generally cylindrical in shape. Shaft 186 is formed with a head 188. The diameter of shaft head 188 allows it to be seated and rotated within a sleeve 116 integral with the base 62. A cylindrical shaft 190 extends below head 188. The diameter of shaft 190 is smaller than the diameter of shaft head 188. The bottom end of the rod 190, the end facing the drive spindle 40, is formed with features for releasably engaging the spindle. In one embodiment, the rod 190 includes one or more notches 192 extending upwardly from the bottom surface of the rod 190 and spaced radially outwardly from the center of the rod 190, wherein the one or more notches 192 are configured to engage one or more complementary teeth on a face of the drive spindle 40 of the base module 32 such that rotation of the drive spindle 40 results in similar rotation of the grinding elements 170. For example, in the illustrated form of the present disclosure, the feature includes three equiangularly spaced notches 192 extending upwardly from the base of the rod 190. Referring now to Figure 3 , the cutting disk 172 includes at least one opening 174 spaced radially outward from the center of the cutting disk 172, the opening 174 being aligned with a complementary hole 175 on the head 188 of the shaft 186. Figure 3 In the embodiment, the four eccentric openings 174 correspond to the four corresponding eccentric openings 175 (also in Figure 12 At least one pin 196, in Figure 3 Two are shown in the figure, which are operatively passed through each opening 174 and inserted into the complementary hole 175 so that rotation of the shaft 186 causes similar rotation of the cutting disk 172. These multiple pins 196, two of which are in Figure 3 186 and 186. As shown in FIG. 186 , the center pin 197 extends upward from the top surface of the shaft head 188 and passes through an eccentrically disposed opening 174 in the cutting disk 172. A center pin 197 having a head 198 is inserted into a central opening 199 in the cutting disk. In the embodiment where the center pin 197 is inserted into the central opening 199, the center pin 197 extends into a central hole 200 in the shaft 186. In this manner, the center pin 197 holds the shaft 186 to the cutting disk 172.

[0078] Only in Figure 3The tubular bushing 202 shown in FIG. 1 extends between the outer surface of the shaft 190 and the inner surface of the sleeve 116. The bushing 202 is formed from a low-friction polymer such as polyethylene oxide, UHMW plastic, nylon, PEEK, or semi-crystalline PET. The bushing 202 serves as a low-friction interface between the stationary sleeve 116 and the rotating shaft 186.

[0079] In some embodiments, the grinding element 170 further includes a spring 187 that cooperates with the shaft 186. In such embodiments, the shaft 186 and the spring 187 are collectively configured such that when the cover 126 is not attached to the base 62: the shaft 186 is not attached to the drive spindle 40; the shaft 186 does not engage the cutting disk 172; or the shaft 186 is not operatively functional, thereby preventing the grinding element 170 and / or the cutting disk 172 from being actuated if the cover 126 is not properly attached to the base 62.

[0080] 16 and 17 , spring 187 is disposed between the outer surface of shaft 186 and bushing 202 , and shaft 186 and spring 187 are collectively configured such that when cover 126 is not attached to base 62 , shaft 186 is not attached to drive spindle 40 . Figure 16A and 16B The grinding module 60 is shown with the cover 126 properly attached to the base 62 and the shaft 186 engaged with the drive spindle 40 via a feature 192 for removably attaching the grinding element 170 to the base unit motor 38 such that actuation of the motor results in actuation of the grinding element 170. Figure 16B , the one or more notches 192 engage one or more complementary teeth on a face of the drive spindle 40 of the base module 32 so that rotation of the drive spindle 40 results in similar rotation of the grinding elements 170 as long as the cover 126 is properly attached to the foundation 62. In contrast, Figure 17A and 17B The grinding module 60 is shown without the cover 126 attached to the base 62 and, therefore, without the shaft 186 engaging the drive spindle 40 via the feature 192 for removably attaching the grinding element 170 to the base unit motor 38, such that actuation of the motor does not result in actuation of the grinding element 170. That is, in FIG17 , because the cover 126 is not properly attached to the base 62, the one or more notches 192 do not engage with one or more complementary teeth on a face of the drive spindle 40 of the base module 32 such that rotation of the drive spindle 40 results in similar rotation of the grinding element 170.

[0081] As another example, in the embodiment of Figures 18 and 19, a spring 187 is disposed within a shaft 186 that includes a first portion A and a second portion B. In this embodiment, portions A and B cooperate to ensure that if the cover 126 is not properly attached to the base 62, the shaft 186 will not function properly and the cutting disk 172 will not be actuated. In this embodiment, the shaft 186 and spring 187 are collectively configured such that when the cover 126 is not attached to the base 62, the portions separate and the grinding element 170 cannot be actuated because the shaft cannot transmit rotational motion from the drive spindle. Figure 18A -D shows the grinding module 60 with the cover 126 properly attached to the base 62 and the first and second parts A and B configured so that actuation of the motor results in actuation of the cutting disc 172. Figure 19A -D shows the grinding module 60 with the cover 126 not attached to the base 62 and the first and second portions A and B not deployed, and actuation of the motor 38 and drive spindle 40 does not result in actuation of the cutting disk 172 .

[0082] like Figure 3 and Figure 14 As shown, the plunger 206 can be slidably mounted in the feed sleeve 156 of the cover 126. The plunger 206 is formed to have a head 205 from which a rod 207 extends. The rod 207 is formed to have two parallel side panels 208 and a front panel extending between the side panels. Each side panel 208 is formed with a recessed portion 209 provided on the inside of the outer surface of the panel on either side of the recessed portion, one recessed portion being located on the inside. Figure 13 As can be seen in FIG. 2 , the recessed portion 209 does not extend the entire edge to edge width of the side panel 208. Therefore, due to the presence of the recessed portion, one edge of each side panel is formed to have a step 210, and the edge of one step 210 is Figure 13 208. Each step 210 extends inwardly from the edge of the side panel to a recessed portion 209 integral with the side panel. A bottom plate 211 extends between the side panel 208 and the front panel to form the base or bottom of the rod 207. The rod 207 is sized to slidably fit within the housing feed sleeve 156. The rod is further formed so that the recessed portion 209 of the side panel 208 can be snap-fitted between the brackets 160.

[0083] The plunger 206 also includes a top plate 214. The plunger 206 is formed so that the top plate 214 extends above and beyond the side panels 208 and the front panel. More specifically, the top plate 214 is sized to face an area that is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the central void of the housing feed sleeve 250. The top plate 214 thus limits the extent to which the plunger rod 207 can be pushed into the sleeve and the inlet opening 152.

[0084] The catch pan 220 is slidably disposed in the opening 70 formed in the base 62 of the grinding module 60. That is, the catch pan is removably mounted near the outlet opening to receive bone chips discharged through the outlet opening. Figure 14 The catch pan 220 depicted has a base 222 from which a series of panels 224 extend upward, three of which are identified. A handle 226 projects outward from the outermost panel 224, which is visible when the catch pan is seated in the grinding module 60. The handle 226 extends in front of the panel associated with the lip. The handle 226 serves as the portion that a user grasps when inserting and removing the catch pan from the grinding head. A latch 228 is pivotally mounted to the handle 226. The latch 228 includes a lug 230 that protrudes above the handle 226. When the catch pan 220 is seated in the grinding module 60, the lug 230 is positioned in the opening 76 formed in the base 62 to removably secure the catch pan to the grinding module 60.

[0085] The catch pan also comprises a hollow sleeve 234. The sleeve 234 extends upward from the base 222 along one of the panels 224 extending inward from the outermost panel 224. A second detection member 236 having high magnetic permeability, such as a rod, is press-fitted or otherwise stationarily secured within the sleeve 234. In a typical embodiment, the second detection member 236 is formed of a magnetically conductive material around which a magnetic field is formed. Examples of materials that can be used to form the rod 236 include 410 stainless steel or silicon-cored iron. The rod 236 is formed so that the end adjacent to the base 222 is pointed. The components forming the grinding module 60 are formed so that when the cover 126 is properly secured to the base and the catch pan is positioned within the base 62, the rod 236 is positioned below the magnet 140 (i.e., the first detection member is positioned above the second detection member). That is, in some embodiments, the second detection member 236 of the base 62 is attached to the catch pan 220 and is positioned so as to align with the detection member 140 of the cover 126 only when the catch pan 220 is properly mounted to the base 62. In other words, in some configurations, the first detection element emits a magnetic field that propagates through the second detection element to the sensor in the base module. Therefore, if the second detection element is not properly aligned with the first detection element, the magnetic field will not propagate to the sensor in the base module.

[0086] The subject disclosure also includes a method of converting aggregate into bone chips using the modular bone grinder system 30 described above, which includes a base module 32 and a grinding module 60 .

[0087] The system 30 of the present disclosure is prepared for use by connecting the base module 32 to a power source. The grinding module 60 is assembled above the top surface 36 of the base module 32. Due to this positioning of the grinding module 60, the linkage assembly 46 causes the lugs 44 to first retract and then seat within the openings 66 formed in the grinding module 60. The seating of the lugs 44 in the openings 66 releasably holds the grinding module 60 stationary to the base module 32. The cover 126 and catch pan 220 are inspected to ensure they are properly attached and seated. Once the grinding module 60 is assembled to the base module 32 and the cover 126 and catch pan 220 are properly in place, the system 30 of the present disclosure is ready for use. That is, prior to use, the method optionally includes the step of attaching the grinding module 60 to the base module 32. Of course, the cover 126 should be attached to the base, and the catch pan 220 should be mounted on the base module 32 adjacent to the outlet opening 96 to receive bone fragments discharged through the outlet opening 96.

[0088] In many embodiments, the first detection component 140 mounted to the cover 126 is positioned to be detected by the sensor 54 in the base module 32 when the cover 126 is properly mounted to the housing 61, and the second detection component 236 mounted to the housing 61 is positioned to be detected by the sensor 54 in the base module 32 when the base 62 is properly attached to the base module 32.

[0089] In an exemplary embodiment, the first detection member 140 is mounted to the cover 126, and the second detection member 236 is mounted to the housing 61, such as in the catch pan 220. In order for both the first and second detection members 140, 236 to be detected by the single sensor 54 in the base module 32, the first and second detection members 140, 236 must be aligned with each other. If the detection members 140, 236 are aligned with each other and can be detected by the sensor 54, the catch pan 220 must be properly placed in the foundation 62, and the foundation 62 must be properly attached to the base module 32.

[0090] To use the system 30, aggregate is placed into the feed sleeve 156. That is, the method includes the steps of introducing the aggregate into the inlet opening so that the grinding elements 170 can reduce the aggregate to bone chips. The plunger 206 can then be placed in the feed sleeve 156 over the aggregate.

[0091] Once these steps are completed, the system is activated by pressing the button 52 or other control element. That is, the method includes the step of activating the grinding element 170. The method also includes the step of introducing aggregate into the housing 61 through the inlet opening.

[0092] As described above, in some embodiments, the bone grinding module 60 includes a first detection component 140 on the cover 126 and a second detection component 236 on the housing 61, both of which are detectable by the sensor 54 in the base module 32. In such embodiments, in order for both detection components 140, 236 to be detected by the sensor 54 in the base module 32, the cover 126 must be properly attached to the base 62, the catch pan 220 must be properly seated in the base 62, and the grinding module 60 (or its base 62) must be properly attached to the base module 32. If the sensor 54 in the base module 32 detects that the two detection components 140, 236 are in the correct position relative to each other, the grinding element 170 can be actuated. In other words, to actuate the grinding element 170, the cover 126 must be properly attached to the base 62, the catch pan 220 must be properly seated in the base 62, and the grinding module 60 (or its base 62) must be properly attached to the base module 32.

[0093] When it is desired to use the system 30, the system may be in a state where the cover 126 is not secured to the base 62 or the catch pan is not properly seated in the base. If the system is in either state, the magnetic field propagated by the magnet 140 will not propagate toward the sensor 54. Therefore, the signal from the sensor does not indicate the absence of a magnetic field near the sensor. The controller 56 interprets this signal as indicating that the grinding module 60 is not properly configured for use. Therefore, the controller 56 will not provide energizing current to the motor 38 in response to the button 52 being pressed. This failure to operate the system serves as a reminder to the user to check the position of the cover 126 and catch pan 220. It should be understood that in certain configurations, if the catch pan is correctly positioned relative to the base, the second detection element cannot be detected by the sensor. This is because the second detection element is not a magnet and therefore cannot be detected by the sensor alone. Therefore, the second detection element becomes detectable only when the first detection element is correctly positioned relative to the second detection element so that the magnetic field generated by the first detection element is transmitted to the sensor through the second detection element.

[0094] However, typically, when the system 30 is configured for use, the cover 126 is properly secured to the base 62 and the catch pan 220 is positioned within the opening 70. If the grinding module 60 is in this state, the magnet 140 is positioned above the rod 207, and the rod 207 is positioned above the sensor 54. When the system 30 is in this state, the magnetic field emitted by the magnet 140 propagates along the outer surface of the rod 207. Thus, a magnetic field exists near the sensor 54. Consequently, the sensor 54 transmits a signal to the controller 56 indicating the detection of the magnetic field. The controller 56 interprets the receipt of the magnetic field as an indication that the cover is properly secured to the base 62 and the catch pan is properly mounted to the base. If the controller 56 determines that the system 30 is in this state, the controller supplies current from the power supply to the motor 38 when the button 52 is pressed. The resulting motor actuation causes the grinding element 170 to rotate.

[0095] The force of plunger 206 causes the plunger to push the aggregate onto disk 172. Thus, as cutting disk 172 rotates, the aggregate is compressed between the four cutting edges 178 of the cutting scallop and the impact plate. The cutting edges then move against the stationary aggregate, shearing it into smaller pieces. Gravity causes most of the bone pieces to fall through openings 180 in the cutting disk and outlet openings 96 in the base and into catch pan 220.

[0096] During the grinding process, some bone fragments formed may not fall through the opening 180 on the cutting disk 172 immediately. These bone fragments rotate with the cutting disk 172. When these bone fragments rotate, they contact ribs 145 or ribs 143. The bone fragments in contact with rib 145 slide along the inner surface of the rib, which points to the center of the cap 128. Due to the continued rotation of the cutting disk, these bone fragments contact the outer surface of rib 143, which points away from the center of the cap 128. Due to the continued rotation of the cutting disk, the bone fragments arranged against rib 143 slide on the cutting disk to the following position: in this position, the bone fragments are pressed against the inner surface of rib 145 that ends above the inlet opening 152. When the bone fragments rotate to above the outlet opening 96, the bone fragments are provided with an additional opportunity to be forced to enter the capture disk 220 through the opening 180 on the cutting disk. It can be understood that one component of this force is the force exerted by the plunger 206 on the bone fragments.

[0097] As the bone fragments abut the ribs, they can tumble on the cutting disk 172. Some bone fragments may also tumble around the ribs 143 and 145. This tumbling of the bone fragments causes them to present different surfaces to the collision plate 164 as they rotate against the plate. This may cause the bone fragments to be further sheared so that they can fit through the opening 180, or it may cause the bone fragments to be simply forced through the opening 180 into the catch disk 220.

[0098] At the end of the grinding process, a small portion of the bone fragment may still adhere to the outer surface or top surface of the cutting disk 172. This may be due in part to the fluid material integral with the bone fragment causing the bone fragment to adhere to the disk 172.

[0099] These bone fragments can be collected for use in surgery where the ground bone fragments are to be used. Specifically, to use these bone fragments, the catch pan 220 is removed from the rest of the grinding module 60. The plunger 206 is removed from the feed sleeve 156. To prevent the plunger 206 from becoming a loose object in the operating room, the plunger is mounted between the brackets 160. Specifically, the plunger is press-fitted between the brackets so that the shorter, opposing portions of the brackets snap onto the step 210. When the plunger is releasably secured to the cap, the abutment of the end of the rod 207 distal to the head 205 further prevents movement of the plunger.

[0100] The grinding module 60 is removed from the base module 32. This step is performed by actuating the linkage 46 so that the linkage retracts the lugs 44 from the edge 64 of the mill head base 62. The cover 126 is removed from the base 62 of the grinding module 60. Once this step is performed, the grinding element 170 can be removed, allowing the bone fragments adhering to the grinding element to be recovered. Removal of the grinding element 170 begins by pushing upward on the lower end of the shaft 186. In subsequent sub-steps of this process, the shaft 186 serves as a handle for holding the grinding element 170. This reduces the need to touch the cutting disk 172 during this process. Once the grinding element 170 is removed using an appropriate tool, the bone fragments adhering to the cutting disk 172 are pushed into the catch tray 220. These bone fragments, like those already in the catch tray 220, are then ready for use. In other words, in a typical embodiment, the bone fragments are ejected and collected in the catch tray 220. The catch pan is then removed from the grinding module 60 and the bone fragments are collected for use.

[0101] A disadvantage of some bone grinders is that sometimes the bone chips produced by grinding are not discharged from the bone grinder housing. This is partly due to the nature of the bone chips. These bone chips are wet. Therefore, there is a tendency for the bone chips to adhere to the surface of the grinder head. In anticipation of this event, some surgeons have become accustomed to harvesting an amount of aggregate that is greater than the amount required to convert it into bone chips. Surgeons do this because they know that a small amount of aggregate will be trapped in the grinder and not discharged. Having to remove an amount of aggregate that is greater than the bone chips required for the operation causes the patient to suffer more trauma than he or she would suffer if the surgeon could only collect an amount of aggregate that is, at most, slightly greater than that required to produce the necessary number of bone chips. These features of the milling module 60, such as the accessible and removable grinding element 170, address this disadvantage.

[0102] In one particular embodiment of the method, the grinding element 170 includes a cutting disk 172 and a shaft 186 adapted to be held during removal of the grinding element 170 from the base 62. The grinding module 60 is removed from the base module 32. The grinding element 170 is then removed from the base 62 by pushing upward on the lower end of the shaft 186. The shaft 186 then serves as a handle for the grinding element 170, thereby reducing the need to access the cutting disk 172. For example, the shaft 186 can be held with an appropriate tool to push residual bone fragments off the cutting disk 172 and into the catch tray 220. In one embodiment, the diameter of the cutting disk 172 corresponds to the opening in the catch tray. In this way, the cutting element 170 can be held by the shaft 186 and the cutting disc 172 can be inserted into the collection basin defined by its base 222 (e.g., tilted), and residual aggregate and / or bone fragments can be collected from the surface of the grinding element 170, for example, by scraping directly from the surface of the cutting disc into the collection basin.

[0103] In some embodiments of the method, the grinding module 60 can be removed from the base module 32. In some such embodiments, the grinding module 60 can be disposable and thrown away. In other such embodiments, the grinding module 60 is reusable and can be autoclaved. In still other embodiments, the grinding element 170 and / or catch pan 220 are disposable, while the grinding module can be autoclaved and used with a replacement grinding element 170 and / or catch pan 220.

[0104] The system 30 of the present disclosure provides a technical means for using bone chips that would otherwise be unusable when formed. This feature can reduce the overall size of the aggregate that a medical practitioner needs to collect from a patient in order to provide the amount of bone chips required for surgery. This is because the medical practitioner using the system knows that the bone chips remaining on the cutting disk 172 after the grinding process are recyclable. This means that these bone chips do not have to be considered as lost bone chips, and the lost bone chips will reduce the amount of bone chips produced for a given amount of aggregate. This means that the medical practitioner, knowing that these bone chips that would otherwise be lost will be recycled, can reduce the amount of aggregate collected from the patient compared to a situation where a portion of the bone chips must be considered lost. Reducing the amount of aggregate to be collected also reduces the trauma suffered by the patient due to the need to collect bone chips.

[0105] Another feature of the system is that the sensor 54, controller 56, magnet 140, and rod 236 are configured to ensure that the system will not operate unless the cover 126 is properly secured to the foundation 62 and the catch pan 220 is properly seated in the foundation. This prevents the system 30 from operating in situations where such operation could result in damage or personal injury.

[0106] Another benefit of the present disclosure is that the shaft 186 performs two functions. The shaft 186 serves as a transfer mechanism for supplying motive force from the base module 32 to the cutting disk 172. The shaft 186 also serves as a handle during the recovery of bone fragments from the cutting disk 172.

[0107] The foregoing is directed to one particular form of the disclosure. Alternative forms of the disclosure may have features different from those already described.

[0108] For example, not all forms of the present disclosure are required to include a detection component and sensor system for determining whether the cover and catch pan are properly attached to the foundation. Similarly, some forms of the present disclosure may not include a removable catch pan.

[0109] Likewise, features of the present disclosure may differ from those already described. Thus, it is not required that the components of the grinding element that converts aggregate into bone chips be discs in all embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, such components may be blades. Similarly, it is not required that the handle of the grinding element be dual-functional in all embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the handle may serve solely as a handle for holding the grinding element. Features other than the handle may serve as coupling features for transmitting motive force to the grinding element.

[0110] Similarly, in forms of the present disclosure in which sensors monitor whether the cover 126 and / or catch pan 220 are properly attached to the mill head, the presence of a magnetic field may not always be monitored by the sensor. In some forms of the present disclosure, the sensor may be an optical sensor that emits a signal based on whether it receives light of a specific wavelength. In these forms of the present disclosure, the marking integrated with the cover 126 may be a reflector. The detection component integrated with the catch pan 220 may be an optical fiber with a filter that allows light at the monitored wavelength to pass. In other forms of the present disclosure, the sensor may be a mechanical switch. In these forms of the present disclosure, the detection component may be a stationary or moving mechanical component integrated with the cover 126 and catch pan 220. When these components are aligned or engaged, they actuate the aforementioned switch. The controller interprets the change in state of the signal on the switch as an indication that the cover 126 and catch pan 220 are properly attached to the rest of the mill head.

[0111] In forms of the present disclosure without the catch pan 220, a detection component may be associated with the base 62. The detection component may be a rod similar to the rod 236. In this form of the present disclosure, only if the base 62 of the grinding module 60 is properly attached to the base module 32 and the cover 126 is properly attached to the base 62 of the grinding module 60 does the sensor output a signal indicating that these components are properly attached to the base module 32. Only upon receiving this signal does the controller 56 allow the motor 38 integral to the base module 32 to be actuated.

[0112] Furthermore, while the present disclosure is generally designed to reduce bone material to bone chips, the present disclosure may have other uses. Using different grinding components, the present disclosure may be used to reduce soft tissue to a form that can be used in surgery. Furthermore, the present disclosure may have applications beyond surgery.

[0113] The present disclosure also includes the following clauses, with specific features listed in the dependent clauses, which may be specifically implemented as described in more detail with reference to the above configurations and drawings.

[0114] 1. A mill head 60 for converting aggregate into bone chips, the mill head comprising:

[0115] a housing 61 adapted to be releasably attached to a base unit 32 including a motor 38, the base housing 34 having a first opening 152 through which aggregate is introduced into the housing 61, and a second opening 96 through which bone fragments are discharged from the housing 61;

[0116] a grinding element 170, 186 removably disposed in the housing 61 between the first opening 152 and the second opening 96 for converting aggregate into bone chips, the grinding element including a feature 192 for removably attaching the grinding element to the base unit motor 38 such that actuation of the motor causes actuation of the grinding element,

[0117] Its characteristics are:

[0118] the housing 61 comprises a base 62 adapted to be releasably attached to the base unit 32, the base comprising the second opening 96 of the housing 61, and a cover 126 removably attached to the base 62, the cover comprising the first opening 152 of the housing 61, wherein the base and the cover are collectively configured such that removal of the cover from the base allows access to the grinding element 170; and

[0119] Abrasive elements 170 are removably attached to the base 62 of the housing.

[0120] II. The mill head 60 for converting aggregate into bone chips according to item I further comprises:

[0121] A first indicia is mounted to the cover 126, the first indicia being positioned to be detectable by the sensor 54 in the base unit 32 when the cover is properly mounted to the housing 61; and

[0122] The second marker 240 is mounted to the housing 61 and is positioned to be detected by a sensor in the base unit 32 when the foundation 62 is attached to the base unit.

[0123] III. A mill head 60 for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in claim II, wherein the first marker is mounted to the cover 126 and the second marker 240 is mounted to the housing 61, so that if the markers are to be detected by the single sensor 54 in the base unit 32, the first and second markers must be aligned with each other, and in order for the markers to be aligned with each other, the cover 126 must be properly secured to the base.

[0124] IV. The mill head 60 of clause II or III, wherein:

[0125] A catch pan 220 is removably mounted to the base 32 adjacent the second opening 96 to receive bone fragments discharged into the second opening; and

[0126] The first marking 240 of the base is attached to the catch pan 220 and is positioned to align with the marking of the cover 126 only when the catch pan is properly mounted to the base 32 .

[0127] V. The mill head 60 of clause IV, wherein:

[0128] The first marker is a magnet 140; and

[0129] The second marker is a component 236 formed of a magnetically conductive material, around which a magnetic field is formed.

[0130] VI. The grinder head 60 of any one of clauses I to IV, wherein the grinding element comprises:

[0131] a cutting disk 172 having openings 174 and scallops 176 that convert aggregate into bone chips; and

[0132] Extending from the cutting device is a shaft 186 adapted to be gripped during removal of the grinding element from the base 62 .

[0133] VII. The grinder head 60 of clause VI, wherein the shaft 186 is a shaft extending from the cutting device and is formed with features 192 for removably coupling the grinding element 170 to the motor 38 of the base unit 32 .

[0134] VIII. A method for operating a bone grinder comprising a base module, a grinding module 60 having a housing 61 adapted to be releasably attached to a base module 32 comprising a motor 38 and a sensor 54, the housing 61 comprising a cover, a base, and a catch pan, the method comprising:

[0135] detecting, with a single sensor on the base module, whether the cover is coupled to the foundation, whether the catch pan is coupled to the foundation, and whether the grinding module is coupled to the base module;

[0136] The motor is selectively powered depending on whether the cover is coupled to the foundation, the catch pan is coupled to the foundation, and the grinding module is coupled to the base module.

[0137] IX. A method of reducing aggregate to bone chips using a modular bone grinder system 30 comprising a base module 32 and a grinding module 60, the grinding module 60 comprising a housing 61 adapted to be releasably attached to the base module 32, the housing 61 having: an inlet opening 152 through which aggregate is introduced into the housing 61; an outlet opening 96 through which bone chips are discharged from the housing 61 into a catch pan 220; and a grinding element 170 removably disposed in the housing 61 between the inlet opening 152 and the outlet opening 96 for reducing the aggregate to bone chips; and a base 62 adapted to be releasably attached to the base module 32, the base 62 comprising the outlet opening 96 of the housing 61, and a cover 126 removably attached to the base 62, the cover 126 comprising the inlet opening 152 of the housing 61, the method comprising the steps of:

[0138] Aggregate is introduced into the housing 61 through the inlet opening 152;

[0139] actuating the grinding element 170 to convert the aggregate into bone chips and discharge the bone chips through the outlet opening 96;

[0140] After actuating the grinding element 170 and ejecting the bone fragments through said outlet opening 96, separating the first housing component from the second housing component; and

[0141] The remaining bone fragments are collected from the surface of the grinding element 170 .

[0142] X. A modular bone treatment system 30, comprising:

[0143] A base module 32 having a single detection sensor; and

[0144] Bone processing module 60, said bone processing module comprising:

[0145] A housing 61 adapted to be releasably attached to the base module 32 including the motor 38 and the sensor 54, the housing 61 having:

[0146] Removable bone treatment element,

[0147] The housing 61 includes:

[0148] a cover 126 removably attached to the foundation 62 , the cover 126 including a first detection component 140 positioned to be detected by the sensor 54 in the base module 32 ; and

[0149] The base 62 is adapted to be releasably attached to the base module 32, the second housing member including the second detection component 236,

[0150] Wherein, the first and second detection components 140 , 236 can be detected by a single sensor 54 in the base module 32 ;

[0151] If the sensor 54 in the base module 32 does not detect the first and second detection components 140, 236, the base module will not power the bone treatment element of the bone treatment module.

[0152] XI. A grinding module 60, comprising:

[0153] A housing 61 adapted to be releasably attached to the base module 32 including the motor 38 and the sensor 54, the housing 61 having:

[0154] an inlet opening 152 through which aggregate is introduced into the housing 61;

[0155] an outlet opening 96 through which bone fragments are discharged from the housing 61; and

[0156] A grinding element 170 is provided in the housing 61 between the inlet opening 152 and the outlet opening 96 for converting the aggregate into bone chips.

[0157] The housing 61 includes:

[0158] a cover 126 removably connected to the foundation 62 , the cover 126 including an access opening 152 to the housing 61 and a first detection member 140 positioned to be detected by the sensor 54 in the base module 32 ; and

[0159] The base 62 is adapted to be releasably attached to the base module 32, and includes the above-mentioned outlet opening 96 and the second detection member 236 and a catch pan 220, which is removably positioned in the base 62 adjacent to the outlet opening 96 for receiving bone fragments discharged through the outlet opening 96.

[0160] Among other things, when the cover 126 is attached to the foundation 62 , the catch pan 220 is positioned in the foundation 62 , and the foundation 62 is attached to the base module 32 , the first and second detection components 140 , 236 are detectable by the sensor 54 in the base module 32 .

[0161] XII. A grinding module (60) for converting aggregate into bone chips, the grinding module (60) comprising:

[0162] A housing (61) adapted to be releasably attached to a base module (32) including a motor (38), said housing (61) having:

[0163] an inlet opening (152) through which aggregate is introduced into the housing (61);

[0164] an outlet opening (96) through which bone fragments are discharged from the housing (61); and

[0165] a grinding element (170) movably disposed in the housing (61) between the inlet opening (152) and the outlet opening (96) for converting aggregate into bone chips, the grinding element (170) including features (192) for removably attaching the grinding element (170) to the base module motor (38) so that actuation of the motor (38) causes actuation of the grinding element (170),

[0166] wherein the housing (61) comprises a base (62) adapted to be releasably attached to a base module (32), the base (62) comprising the outlet opening (96) and a cover (126) removably attached to the base (62), the cover (126) comprising the inlet opening (152) of the housing (61), and

[0167] wherein the base (62) and the cover (126) are collectively configured such that removing the cover (126) from the base (62) allows access to the grinding elements (170).

[0168] XIII. The grinding module (60) for converting aggregate into bone chips of clause XII, wherein the grinding element (170) is removably attached to the base (62) of the housing (61).

[0169] XIV. The grinding module (60) for converting aggregate into bone chips according to clause XII or clause XIII, further comprising:

[0170] a first detection member (140) mounted to the cover (126), the first detection member (140) being positioned to be detected by a sensor (54) in the base module (32) when the cover (126) is properly mounted to the housing (61); and

[0171] A second detection component (236) is mounted to the foundation (62) and positioned to be detected by the sensor (54) in the base module (32) when the foundation (62) is attached to the base module (32).

[0172] XV. A grinding module (60) for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in clause XIV, wherein the first detection member (140) is mounted to the cover (126) and the second detection member (236) is mounted to the housing (61) so that the first and second detection members (140, 236) can be detected by a single sensor (54) in the base module (32) when the first and second detection members (140, 236) are aligned with each other, and in order to align the first detection member with the second detection member, the catch pan (220) must be properly positioned in the foundation (62) and the foundation (62) must be properly attached to the base module (32).

[0173] XVI. The grinding module (60) of clause XIV or XV, wherein:

[0174] a catch pan (220) removably mounted adjacent the outlet opening (96) to receive bone fragments discharged through the outlet opening; and

[0175] The second detection member (236) of the base (62) is attached to the catch pan (220) and is positioned to align with the first detection member (140) of the cover (126) only when the catch pan (220) is properly mounted to the base (62).

[0176] XVII. The grinding module (60) of any one of clauses XIV to XVI, wherein:

[0177] The first detection component is a magnet (140); and

[0178] The second detection component (236) is formed of a magnetic conductive material, and a magnetic field is generated around the magnetic conductive material.

[0179] XVIII. The grinding module (60) of any preceding clause, wherein the grinding element (170) comprises:

[0180] a cutting disk (172) having features (176) for converting aggregate into bone chips; and

[0181] A shaft (186) extends from the cutting disk (172), the shaft being adapted to be gripped when removing the grinding element (170) from the base (62).

[0182] XIX. The grinding module (60) of clause XVIII, wherein the shaft (186) is operatively attached to a spring (187), and the shaft (186) and the spring (187) are configured such that when the cover (126) is not attached to the base (62): the shaft (186) is not attached to the drive spindle (40), the shaft (186) does not engage the cutting disk (172), or the shaft (186) is not operatively functioning such that the cutting disk (172) cannot be actuated if the cover (126) is not properly attached to the base (62).

[0183] XX. The grinding module (60) of clause XIX, wherein the shaft (186) extends from the cutting disc (172) and is formed with features (192) for removably coupling the grinding element (170) to the motor (38) of the base module (32).

[0184] XXI. The grinding module (60) of clause XX, wherein the shaft (186) includes a head (188) and a stem (190) extending downwardly from the head (188), wherein the stem (190) includes one or more notches (192) extending upwardly from a bottom surface of the stem (190) and spaced radially outwardly from a center of the stem (190), wherein the one or more notches (192) are configured to engage with one or more complementary teeth on a face of a drive spindle (40) of the base module (32) such that rotation of the drive spindle (40) causes similar rotation of the grinding element (170).

[0185] XXII. The grinding module (60) of clause XXI, wherein the cutting disk (172) includes one or more openings (174) aligned with complementary holes (175) on the head (188) of the shaft (186), wherein at least one pin (196) is positioned to pass through one of the openings (174) and the complementary hole (175) such that rotation of the shaft (186) causes similar rotation of the cutting disk (172).

[0186] XXIII. The grinding module (60) of clause XII, wherein the cover (126) comprises a dome-shaped cap (128) defining an inner surface (129) and a sidewall (131).

[0187] XXIV. The grinding module (60) of clause XXIII, wherein the cap (128) includes one or more lugs (130) projecting radially outward from a side wall of the cap (128), wherein the one or more lugs (130) are positioned and dimensioned such that, when the cap (128) is positioned in the opening (75) on the base (62) and rotated, each lug (130) rotates into a corresponding recess (106) on the base (62), becomes integral with the recess (106), and properly attaches the cap (126) to the base (62).

[0188] XXV. The grinding module (60) of clause XXIV, wherein one of the one or more lugs (130) includes a toe (138) having a first detection element (140) disposed therein and extending downwardly from one end of the lug (130), wherein when the cap (128) is positioned in the opening (75) on the base (62) and rotated to properly attach the cover (126) to the base (62), the toe (138) moves to align above the opening (112) on the base (62) with the cover (126) properly attached to the base (62).

[0189] XXVI. A grinding module (60) as described in clause XXV, wherein the first detection element (140) is a magnet and the second detection element (234) is a rod (236) with high magnetic permeability in a sleeve (234), the catch pan (220) including a hollow sleeve (234) containing the rod (236), wherein the components forming the grinding module (60) are formed so that: when the cover (126) is properly secured to the base (62) and the catch pan (220) is properly positioned in the base (62), the rod (236) is positioned below the magnet (140).

[0190] XXVII. The grinding module (60) of any one of clauses XXIII to XXVI, wherein the cap (128) includes one or more rings (142, 144, and 146) extending downwardly from an inner surface (129) of the cap (128).

[0191] XXVIII. The grinding module (60) of clause XXVII, wherein the cap (128) includes an outermost ring (146) positioned on an outer periphery of the cap (128), wherein the outermost ring (146) of the cap (126) rests on a step (88) on the base (62) when mounted to the base (62).

[0192] XXIX. A grinding module (60) as described in any of clauses XXIII to XXVIII, wherein the cap (128) includes one or more ribs (143, 145) extending downwardly from an inner surface (129) of the cap (128), the ribs (143, 145) being configured to push aggregate into the cutting disc (172) of the grinding element (170) and prevent aggregate from accumulating on the inner surface (129) of the cap (128) when the grinding module (60) is in operation.

[0193] XXX. The grinding module (60) of claim XXIX, wherein at least one rib (145) extends inwardly from the intermediate ring (144) and extends at an angle away from the position where the rib (143) extends from the intermediate ring (144), but does not extend to the innermost ring (142), and the at least one rib (145) is curved in the direction of rotation of the cutting disk (172).

[0194] XXXI. A grinding module (60) as described in clause XXIX or XXX, wherein at least one rib (145) extends inwardly from the innermost ring (142) and extends at an angle away from the position where the rib (143) extends from the innermost ring (142), but does not extend to the intermediate ring (144), and the at least one rib (143) is curved in the direction of rotation of the cutting disk (172).

[0195] XXXII. A grinding module (60) as described in any preceding clause, wherein the base (62) includes a rim (64) having a plurality of openings (66) and is designed and dimensioned to be positioned around the outer periphery of the top surface (36) of the base module (32), wherein when so positioned, the plurality of lugs (44) on the base module (32) extend through the plurality of openings (66) to become integral with the plurality of openings (66) and properly attach the grinding module (60) to the base module (32).

[0196] XXXIII. A modular bone grinding system (30) for converting aggregate into bone chips, the system comprising:

[0197] a base module (32); and

[0198] A grinding module (60), comprising:

[0199] A housing (61) adapted to be releasably attached to a housing comprising a motor (38) and a sensor

[0200] (54) base module (32), the housing (61) having:

[0201] an inlet opening (152) through which aggregate is introduced into the housing (61);

[0202] an outlet opening (96) through which bone fragments are discharged from the housing (61); and

[0203] a grinding element (170) arranged in the housing (61) between the inlet opening (152) and the outlet opening (96) for converting aggregate into bone chips, wherein the housing (61) comprises:

[0204] a cover (126) removably attached to the base (62), the cover (126) including the inlet opening (152) of the housing (61) and a first detection member (140) positioned to be detected by a sensor (54) in the base module (32); and

[0205] The base (62) is adapted to be releasably attached to the base module (32), the base (62) including the outlet opening (96) and the second detection member (236) and a catch pan (220) removably positioned in the base (62) adjacent to the outlet opening (96) to receive bone fragments discharged through the outlet opening,

[0206] The base module is configured to selectively power a grinding element (170) of a grinding module (60) based on whether a sensor (54) in the base module (32) detects that first and second detection components (140, 236) are arranged relative to each other to indicate that the cover (126) is properly attached to the foundation (62), the catch pan (220) is properly seated in the foundation (62), and the foundation (62) is properly attached to the base module (32).

[0207] XXXIV. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of clause XXXIII, wherein the first detection member (140) is mounted to the cover (126) and the second detection member (236) is mounted to the base, and the base module includes a single sensor for determining that the first and second detection members (140, 236) are aligned with each other, indicating that the cover (126) is properly secured to the base (62), the capture pan (220) is properly positioned in the base (62), and the base (62) is properly attached to the base module (32).

[0208] XXXV. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of clause XXXIII or XXXIV, wherein the second detection member (236) of the base (62) is attached to the catch pan (220) and is positioned so as to align with the first detection member (140) of the cover (126) only when the catch pan (220) is properly mounted to the base (62).

[0209] XXXVI. The modular bone grinding system (30) of any one of clauses XXXIII to XXXV, wherein:

[0210] The first detection component is a magnet (140); and

[0211] The second detection component (236) is formed of a magnetic conductive material, and a magnetic field is generated around the magnetic conductive material.

[0212] XXXVII. The modular bone grinder system (30) of any one of clauses XXXIII to XXXVI, wherein the grinding element (170) comprises:

[0213] a cutting disk (172) having features (176) for converting aggregate into bone chips; and

[0214] A shaft (186) extends from the cutting disk (172), the shaft (186) being adapted to be gripped when removing the grinding element (170) from the base (62).

[0215] XXXVIII. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of clause XXXVII, wherein the shaft (186) extends from the cutting disk (172) and is formed with features (192) for removably coupling the grinding element (170) to the motor (38) of the base module (32).

[0216] XXXIX. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of clause XXXVIII, wherein the shaft (186) includes a head (188) and a stem (190) extending downwardly from the head (188), wherein the stem (190) includes one or more notches (192) extending upwardly from a bottom surface of the stem (190) and spaced radially outwardly from a center of the stem (190), wherein the one or more notches (192) are configured to engage with one or more complementary teeth on a face of a drive spindle (40) of the base module (32) such that rotation of the drive spindle (40) causes similar rotation of the grinding element (170).

[0217] XL. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of clause XXXIX, wherein the cutting disk (172) includes one or more openings (174) aligned with complementary holes (175) on the head (188) of the shaft (186), wherein at least one pin (196) is positioned to pass through one of the openings (174) and the complementary holes (175) such that rotation of the shaft (186) causes similar rotation of the cutting disk (172).

[0218] XLI. The modular bone grinder system (30) of any of clauses XXXIII to XL, wherein the grinding element (170) is removably attached to a base (62) of the housing (61).

[0219] XLII. The modular bone grinding system (30) of any one of clauses XXXIII to XLI, wherein the cover (126) comprises a domed, disc-shaped cap (128) defining an inner surface (129) and a sidewall (131).

[0220] XLIII. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of clause XLII, wherein the cap (128) includes one or more lugs (130) projecting radially outward from a cylindrical side wall of the cap, wherein the one or more lugs (130) are positioned and dimensioned such that when the cap (128) is positioned in the opening (75) on the base (62) and rotated, each lug (130) rotates into a corresponding recess (106) on the base (62), becomes integral with the recess (106), and properly attaches the cap (126) to the base (62).

[0221] XLIV. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of clause XLIII, wherein one of the one or more lugs (130) includes a toe (138) having a magnet (140) disposed therein and extending downwardly from one end of the lug (130), wherein when the cap (128) is positioned in the opening (75) on the base (62) and rotated to properly attach the cover (126) to the base (62), the toe (138) moves to align above the opening (112) on the base (62) with the cover (126) properly attached to the base (62).

[0222] XLV. A modular bone grinding machine system (30) as described in clause XLIV, wherein the capture plate (220) includes a hollow sleeve (234), the hollow sleeve including a rod (236) having high magnetic permeability in the sleeve (234), wherein the components forming the grinding module (60) are formed so that: when the cover (126) is properly secured to the base (62) and the capture plate (220) is properly positioned in the base (62), the rod (236) is positioned below the magnet (140).

[0223] XLVI. The modular bone grinder system (30) of any of clauses XLII to XLV, wherein the cap (128) includes one or more rings (142, 144, and 146) extending downwardly from an inner surface (129) of the cap (128).

[0224] XLVII. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of clause XLVI, wherein the cap (128) includes an outermost ring (146) positioned on an outer periphery of the cap (128), wherein the outermost ring (146) of the cap (126) rests on a step (88) on the base (62) when mounted to the base (62).

[0225] XLVIII. A modular bone grinder system (30) as described in any of clauses XLII to XLVII, wherein the cap (128) includes one or more ribs (143, 145) extending downwardly from an inner surface (129) of the cap (128), the ribs (143, 145) being configured to push aggregate into the cutting disc (172) of the grinding element (170) and prevent aggregate from accumulating on the inner surface (129) of the cap (128) when the bone grinder is in operation.

[0226] XLIX. A modular bone grinding machine system (30) as described in clause XLVIII, wherein at least one rib (143) extends inwardly from the intermediate ring (144) and extends at an angle away from the position where the rib (145) extends from the intermediate ring (144), but does not extend to the innermost ring (142), and the at least one rib (145) is curved in the direction of rotation of the cutting disk (172).

[0227] L. A modular bone grinding machine system (30) as described in clause XLVIII or XLIX, wherein at least one rib (145) extends inwardly from the innermost ring (142) and extends at an angle away from the position where the rib (143) extends from the innermost ring (142), but does not extend to the middle ring (144), and the at least one rib (143) is curved in the direction of rotation of the cutting disk (172).

[0228] LI. A modular bone grinder system (30) as recited in any one of clauses XXXIII to L, wherein the base (62) includes a rim (64) having a plurality of openings (66) and is dimensioned to be positioned around the outer periphery of the top surface (36) of the base module (32), wherein when the grinding module (60) is positioned above the top surface (36) of the base module (32), a plurality of lugs (44) on the base module (32) extend through the plurality of openings (66) to become integral with the plurality of openings (66) and properly attach the grinding module (60) to the base module (32).

[0229] LII. A method of converting aggregate into bone chips using a modular bone grinder system (30) comprising a base module (32) and a grinding module (60), the grinding module (60) comprising a housing (61) adapted to be releasably attached to the base module (32), the housing (61) having an inlet opening (152) through which aggregate is introduced into the housing (61), an outlet opening (96) through which bone chips are discharged from the housing (61) into a catch pan (220), and a grinding element ( 170), which is movably arranged in the housing (61) between the inlet opening (152) and the outlet opening (96), for converting aggregate into bone chips, is adapted to be releasably attached to a base (62) of a base module (32), the base (62) including the outlet opening (96) of the housing (61), and a cover (126) removably attached to the base (62), the cover (126) including the inlet opening (152) of the housing (61), the method comprising the following steps:

[0230] Aggregate is introduced into the housing (61) through the inlet opening (152),

[0231] actuating the grinding element (170) to convert the aggregate into bone chips and discharge the bone chips through the outlet opening (96);

[0232] After actuating the grinding element (170) and ejecting the bone fragments through the outlet opening (96), opening the cover (126); and

[0233] The remaining bone fragments are collected from the surface of the grinding element (170).

[0234] LIII. The method of converting aggregate into bone chips as described in clause LII further comprising the step of removing the grinding element (170) from the base (62) to access any remaining bone chips from the surface of the grinding element (170).

[0235] LIV. The method of converting aggregate into bone chips as described in clause LII or LIII, further comprising the steps of removing the catch pan (220) and collecting the bone chips discharged from the catch pan.

[0236] LV. The method of converting aggregate into bone chips as recited in any of clauses LII to LIV, further comprising the step of attaching a grinding module (60) to the base module (32).

[0237] LVI. The method of converting aggregate into bone chips as recited in any one of clauses LII to LV, further comprising the step of releasing the grinding module (60) from the base module (32).

[0238] LVII. The method of converting aggregate into bone chips as described in clause LVI further comprises the step of arranging the grinding module (60).

[0239] LVIII. The method of converting aggregate into bone chips as described in any of clauses LII to LVII, further comprising the steps of attaching the cover (126) to the foundation (62), and mounting a catch pan (220) on the base module (32) adjacent to the outlet opening (96) to receive the bone chips discharged through the outlet opening (96).

[0240] LIX. A method of converting aggregate into bone chips as described in any of clauses LII to LVIII, wherein the grinding element (170) includes a cutting disc (172) and a shaft (186) adapted to be held during removal of the grinding element (170) from the base (62), and wherein the step of removing the grinding element (170) from the base (62) is further defined as removing the grinding element (170) by pushing upwardly on the lower end of the shaft (186).

[0241] LX. The method of converting aggregate into bone chips as described in clause LIX, further comprising the step of using the shaft (186) as a handle for the grinding element (170) to reduce the extent to which contact with the cutting disk (172) is required.

[0242] LXI. The method of converting aggregate into bone chips as described in clause LX, further comprising the step of removing residual aggregate and / or bone chips from the cutting disk (172) using a tool and moving them into a catch disk (220).

[0243] LXII. The method of converting aggregate into bone chips as described in clause LX, further comprising the steps of at least partially inserting the cutting disk (172) into a catch disk (220) and scraping residual aggregate and / or bone chips into the catch disk (220).

[0244] LXIII. A grinding module (60) for converting aggregate into bone chips, the grinding module (60) comprising:

[0245] A housing (61) adapted to be releasably attached to a base module (32) comprising a motor (38) and a drive spindle (40), said housing (61) having:

[0246] an inlet opening (152) through which aggregate is introduced into the housing (61);

[0247] an outlet opening (96) through which bone fragments are discharged from the housing (61); and

[0248] A grinding element (170) is movably disposed in the housing (61) between the inlet opening (152) and the outlet opening (96) for converting aggregate into bone chips, the grinding element (170) comprising:

[0249] a cutting disk (172) having features (176) for converting aggregate into bone chips; and

[0250] a shaft (186) and a spring (187) extending from the cutting disc (172), the shaft (186) having a feature (192) for removably attaching the grinding element (170) to the drive spindle (40) such that actuation of the motor (38) causes actuation of the grinding element (170),

[0251] a base (62) adapted to be releasably attached to the base module (32), the base (62) including the outlet opening (96) and a cover (126) removably attached to the base (62), the cover (126) including the inlet opening (152) of the housing (61), and

[0252] wherein the base (62) and the cover (126) are collectively configured such that removal of the cover (126) from the base (62) allows access to the grinding element (170); and

[0253] wherein the shaft (186) and the spring (187) are collectively configured such that when the cover (126) is not attached to the base (62): the shaft (186) is not attached to the drive spindle (40); the shaft (186) does not engage the cutting disk (172); or the shaft (186) is not operatively functioning such that the cutting disk (172) cannot be actuated if the cover (126) is not properly attached to the base (62).

[0254] Therefore, it is the object of the appended claims to cover all such changes and modifications as come within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A modular bone grinding system (30) for converting aggregate into bone chips, the system comprising: Base module (32); and A grinding module (60), comprising: A housing (61) adapted to be releasably attached to a base module (32) comprising a motor (38) and a sensor (54), said housing (61) having: an inlet opening (152) through which aggregate is introduced into the housing (61); an outlet opening (96) through which bone fragments are discharged from the housing (61); and a grinding element (170) arranged in the housing (61) between the inlet opening (152) and the outlet opening (96) for converting the aggregate into bone chips, Wherein, the housing (61) comprises: a cover (126) that is removably attached to the base (62), the cover (126) comprising the inlet opening (152) of the housing (61) and a first detection member (140) positioned to be detectable by a sensor (54) in a base module (32); and The base (62) is adapted to be releasably attached to the base module (32), the base (62) including the outlet opening (96) and a second detection member (236) positioned to be detected by the sensor (54) in the base module (32), and a catch pan (220) removably positioned in the base (62) adjacent to the outlet opening (96) to receive bone fragments discharged through the outlet opening, The base module is configured to selectively power a grinding element (170) of a grinding module (60) based on whether a sensor (54) in the base module (32) detects that first and second detection components (140, 236) are arranged relative to each other to indicate that the cover (126) is properly attached to the foundation (62), the catch pan (220) is properly seated in the foundation (62), and the foundation (62) is properly attached to the base module (32).

2. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) according to claim 1, wherein The first detection member (140) is mounted to the cover (126) and the second detection member (236) is mounted to the foundation, the base module including a single sensor, the single sensor being the sensor (54), for determining that the first and second detection members (140, 236) are aligned with each other, indicating that the cover (126) is properly secured to the foundation (62), the catch pan (220) is properly seated in the foundation (62), and the foundation (62) is properly attached to the base module (32).

3. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) according to claim 1, wherein The second detection member (236) of the base (62) is attached to the catch pan (220) and is positioned to align with the first detection member (140) of the cover (126) only when the catch pan (220) is properly mounted to the base (62).

4. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of claim 1, wherein: The first detection component is a magnet; and The second detection component (236) is formed of a magnetic conductive material, and a magnetic field is generated around the magnetic conductive material.

5. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of claim 1, wherein: The grinding element (170) comprises: a cutting disk (172) having features for converting aggregate into bone chips; and A shaft (186) extends from the cutting disk (172), the shaft (186) being adapted to be gripped when removing the grinding element (170) from the base (62).

6. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) according to claim 5, wherein: The shaft (186) extends from the cutting disk (172) and is formed with features to removably couple the grinding element (170) to the motor (38) of the base module (32).

7. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) according to claim 6, wherein: The shaft (186) includes a head (188) and a stem (190) extending downwardly from the head (188), wherein the stem (190) includes one or more notches (192) extending upwardly from a bottom surface of the stem (190) and spaced radially outwardly from a center of the stem (190), wherein the one or more notches (192) are configured to engage with one or more complementary teeth on a face of a drive spindle (40) of the base module (32) such that rotation of the drive spindle (40) causes similar rotation of the grinding element (170).

8. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) according to claim 7, wherein: The cutting disk (172) includes one or more openings (174) aligned with complementary holes (175) on the head (188) of the shaft (186), wherein at least one pin (196) is positioned to pass through one of the openings (174) and the complementary hole (175) such that rotation of the shaft (186) causes similar rotation of the cutting disk (172).

9. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The grinding element (170) is removably attached to a base (62) of the housing (61).

10. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The cover (126) includes a domed, disc-shaped cap (128) defining an inner surface (129) and a sidewall (131).

11. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of claim 10, wherein: The cap (128) includes one or more lugs (130) projecting radially outward from a cylindrical side wall of the cap, wherein the one or more lugs (130) are positioned and dimensioned such that when the cap (128) is positioned in the opening (75) on the base (62) and rotated, each lug (130) rotates into a corresponding recess (106) on the base (62), becomes integral with the recess (106), and properly attaches the cap (126) to the base (62).

12. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of claim 11, wherein: One of the one or more lugs (130) includes a toe (138) having a magnet disposed therein and extending downwardly from one end of the lug (130), wherein when the cap (128) is positioned in the opening (75) on the base (62) and rotated to properly attach the cover (126) to the base (62), the toe (138) moves to align over the opening (112) on the base (62) with the cover (126) properly attached to the base (62).

13. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of claim 12, wherein: The catch pan (220) comprises a hollow sleeve (234) comprising a rod having high magnetic permeability in the hollow sleeve (234), wherein the components forming the grinding module (60) are formed such that the rod is positioned below the magnet when the cover (126) is correctly fastened to the foundation (62) and the catch pan (220) is correctly positioned in the foundation (62).

14. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of claim 13, wherein: The cap (128) includes one or more rings (142, 144, and 146) extending downwardly from an inner surface (129) of the cap (128).

15. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of claim 14, wherein: The cap (128) includes an outermost ring (146) positioned on an outer periphery of the cap (128), wherein the outermost ring (146) of the cap (126) rests on a step (88) on the foundation (62) when mounted to the foundation (62).

16. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of claim 15, wherein: The cap (128) includes one or more ribs (143, 145) extending downwardly from an inner surface (129) of the cap (128), the one or more ribs (143, 145) being configured to push aggregate into the cutting disk (172) of the grinding element (170) and prevent aggregate from accumulating on the inner surface (129) of the cap (128) when the bone grinder system is in operation.

17. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of claim 16, wherein: At least one rib (145) extends inwardly from the middle ring (144) and angled away from where the rib (145) extends from the middle ring (144), but does not extend to the innermost ring (142), the at least one rib (145) being curved in the direction of rotation of the cutting disk (172).

18. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) of claim 17, wherein: At least one rib (143) extends outwardly from the innermost ring (142) and extends at an angle away from the location where the rib (143) extends from the innermost ring (142), but does not extend to the intermediate ring (144), and the at least one rib (143) is curved in the direction of rotation of the cutting disk (172).

19. The modular bone grinding machine system (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The base (62) includes a rim (64) having a plurality of openings (66) and is sized to be positioned around an outer perimeter of a top surface (36) of the base module (32), wherein when the grinding module (60) is positioned over the top surface (36) of the base module (32), a plurality of lugs on the base module (32) extend through the plurality of openings (66) to integrate with the plurality of openings (66) and properly attach the grinding module (60) to the base module (32).

Images