Electric drill bit

Abstract

A drill bit (20, 420, 520, 620, 720, 820, 920, 1020) is disclosed, which includes a connector (32, 232, 532, 632, 732, 832, 932, 1032), which includes a shank (34) configured to receive torque; a proximal conductive coupler (36, 436, 536, 636, 736, 836, 936, 1036) provided at a distal end point (28) of the shank (34) and rotationally fixed relative to the shank (34); and a distal conductive coupler (38, 238, 438, 538, 838, 738, 838, 938, 1038). The distal conductive coupler is rotationally fixed relative to the proximal conductive coupler, electrically isolated from the proximal conductive coupler, and shaped to define a distal conductive outer contact surface (62, 862, 962, 1062). The drill bit further includes a drill shaft (30, 130, 230, 330, 430, 830), which includes a conductive outer electrode (44) and a conductive inner electrode (46, 146, 246, 346, 846). Other embodiments are also described.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications

[0002] This patent application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 942,520, filed on December 2, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to drill bits, and more particularly to electric drill bits. Background Art

[0004] Some surgical procedures, including dental and orthopedic surgeries, involve drilling through tissues that contain bone and soft tissue. Surgeons must always be aware of whether the tip of the drill bit remains within the bone or has drilled out of the bone and penetrated the soft tissue.

[0005] U.S. Patent No. 7,580,743 to Bourlion et al. describes a device that can be used to monitor the penetration of a penetrating member through an anatomical structure, particularly the bone structure of a living body, which structure has at least two different impedance regions. The device is characterized in that it includes at least one impedance meter that can be connected to at least two electrodes, where at least one electrode is located at the distal tip of the penetrating member, and at least one alarm device that can generate an alarm signal when the impedance meter detects a change in impedance. The '743 patent also describes a penetrating member for the device and an electronic board for the device.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 10,064,630 to Forman et al. describes a drive assembly, a driver, a drill bit, and a method for determining biomaterial information (such as impedance, voltage, voltage difference, and changes in such information) during a medical procedure Summary of the Invention

[0007] Some embodiments of the present invention provide a drill bit that includes a connector and a drill shaft. The connector includes a shank, a proximal conductive coupler, a distal conductive coupler, and an insulator that electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler from the proximal conductive coupler. The shank is configured to receive torque, typically from the chuck of a surgical drill, such as a dental handpiece. The proximal conductive coupler is disposed at the distal tip of the shank and is rotationally fixed relative to the shank. The distal conductive coupler is rotationally fixed relative to the proximal conductive coupler, is electrically isolated from the proximal conductive coupler, and is shaped to define a distal conductive outer contact surface.

[0008] The drill shaft is shaped to define a proximal interface that is rotationally fixed relative to the proximal conductive coupler and is configured to transfer torque from the proximal conductive coupler to the drill shaft. The drill shaft is further shaped to define a distal tip portion that is shaped to penetrate tissue.

[0009] The drill shaft includes:

[0010] · A conductive outer electrode that is in electrical communication with a distal conductive coupler;

[0011] · A conductive inner electrode having a proximal end portion that is in electrical communication with a proximal conductive coupler of a connector and is electrically isolated from a distal conductive coupler of the connector; and

[0012] · An electrical isolation layer radially between the conductive outer electrode and the conductive inner electrode to electrically isolate the conductive outer electrode and the conductive inner electrode from each other.

[0013] The drill shaft and the connector are configured to transfer torque from a surgical drill to the drill shaft to penetrate tissue. The drill shaft and the connector are configured to provide an electrical connection between the conductive outer electrode and the conductive inner electrode and a central unit that is configured to sense electrical properties of the tissue penetrated by the drill shaft, such as impedance, impedance changes, voltage, or voltage changes. The sensed electrical properties can be used by an operator of the surgical drill coupled to the drill bit to monitor the penetration of the drill shaft into anatomical structures, particularly bone structures having at least two different electrical impedance regions, such as bone (e.g., cortical bone) and soft tissue. Additionally, the sensed electrical properties are capable of measuring local electrical properties of the tissue, as is known in the field of impedance measurements, which is more difficult if not impossible using a single electrode on the drill bit and a remote external skin return electrode.

[0014] Thus, according to one application of the present invention, there is provided a drill bit that includes:

[0015] (a) A connector including:

[0016] (i) A shank configured to receive torque;

[0017] (ii) A proximal conductive coupler disposed at a distal end point of the shank and rotationally fixed relative to the shank; and

[0018] (iii) A distal conductive coupler that (1) is rotationally fixed relative to the proximal conductive coupler, (2) is electrically isolated from the proximal conductive coupler, and (3) is shaped to define a distal conductive outer contact surface; and

[0019] (b) A drill shaft shaped to define:

[0020] (i) A proximal interface that is rotationally fixed relative to the proximal conductive coupler and is configured to transfer the torque from the proximal conductive coupler to the drill shaft, and

[0021] (ii) A distal tip portion, which is shaped to penetrate tissue upon rotation,

[0022] Wherein, the drill shaft includes:

[0023] (i) A conductive outer electrode, which is electrically connected to the distal conductive coupler;

[0024] (ii) A conductive inner electrode, which has a proximal end portion electrically connected to the proximal conductive coupler of the connector and is electrically isolated from the distal conductive coupler of the connector; and

[0025] (iii) An electrical isolation layer, radially between the conductive outer electrode and the conductive inner electrode, so as to electrically isolate the conductive outer electrode and the conductive inner electrode from each other.

[0026] For some applications, the handle is shaped to define a non-cross-sectionally circular proximal axial portion for receiving the torque.

[0027] For some applications, the handle is shaped to define a cross-sectionally circular proximal axial portion for receiving the torque.

[0028] For some applications, the proximal interface of the drill shaft is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler through the distal conductive coupler.

[0029] For some applications, the distal conductive coupler is integrated into the drill shaft at the proximal interface of the drill shaft.

[0030] For some applications, the distal conductive coupler and the drill shaft include separate parts coupled together at the proximal interface of the drill shaft.

[0031] For some applications, the connector and the drill shaft include separate parts detachably coupled to each other.

[0032] For some applications, the proximal end portion of the conductive inner electrode and the proximal conductive coupler of the connector include separate parts directly coupled to each other.

[0033] For some applications, the proximal end portion of the conductive inner electrode is integrated with the proximal conductive coupler of the connector.

[0034] For some applications:

[0035] The connector further includes an internal electrical contact, the internal electrical contact being in electrical contact with the proximal conductive coupler and electrically isolated from the distal conductive coupler, and

[0036] The proximal end portion of the conductive inner electrode is electrically connected to the proximal conductive coupler through the internal electrical contact.

[0037] For some applications, the internal electrical contact includes a contact spring.

[0038] For some applications, the contact spring axially contacts the proximal end portion of the conductive inner electrode.

[0039] For some applications, the contact spring laterally contacts the proximal end portion of the conductive inner electrode.

[0040] For some applications, the conductive inner electrode protrudes proximally from the distal conductive coupler of the connector.

[0041] For some applications, the conductive inner electrode is recessed within the distal conductive coupler of the connector.

[0042] For some applications, the conductive inner electrode is flush with the distal conductive coupler of the connector.

[0043] For some applications, the length of the shank measured between a proximal end point and a distal end point of the shank is between 5 and 30 millimeters.

[0044] For some applications, the length of the shank measured between a proximal end point and a distal end point of the shank is between 5 and 30 millimeters.

[0045] For some applications, the length of the drill shaft measured between the proximal interface of the drill shaft and a distal tip of the drill shaft is between 3 and 80 millimeters.

[0046] For some applications, the conductive inner electrode is flush with a proximal end point of the drill shaft.

[0047] For some applications, the conductive inner electrode is recessed within a proximal end point of the drill shaft.

[0048] For some applications, the conductive inner electrode protrudes proximally from a proximal end point of the drill shaft.

[0049] For some applications, the length of the drill shaft measured between the proximal interface of the drill shaft and a distal tip of the drill shaft is between 25% and 95% of the length of the drill bit measured between the proximal end point of the shank and a distal tip of the drill shaft.

[0050] For some applications, the connector includes an insulator that electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler from the proximal conductive coupler.

[0051] For some applications, the distal conductive coupler is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler by the insulator.

[0052] For some applications, the distal conductive coupler is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler by the insulator via a lateral mechanical connection.

[0053] For some applications, the distal conductive coupler is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler by the insulator via an axial mechanical connection.

[0054] For some applications, the insulator includes an isolation ring configured to electrically isolate the distal conductive coupler and the proximal conductive coupler from each other.

[0055] For some applications, the insulator includes a coating.

[0056] For some applications, the insulator includes a non-conductive adhesive.

[0057] For some applications, the connector includes a non-conductive partition that electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler from the proximal conductive coupler.

[0058] For some applications, the non-conductive partition partially electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler from the proximal conductive coupler by defining one or more air gaps between the distal conductive coupler and the proximal conductive coupler.

[0059] For some applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface extends 360 degrees around a central longitudinal axis of the connector.

[0060] For some applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface is at least partially radially outward facing.

[0061] For some applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface has a circular outer cross-section.

[0062] For some applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface is at least partially distally facing.

[0063] For some applications, the proximal conductive coupler is at least partially proximal to the distal conductive outer contact surface

[0064] For some applications, the proximal conductive coupler is shaped to define a proximal conductive outer contact surface.

[0065] For some applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface is 360 degrees around a central longitudinal axis of the connector.

[0066] For some applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface faces at least partially radially outward.

[0067] For some applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface has a circular outer cross-section.

[0068] For some applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface faces at least partially proximally.

[0069] For some applications, the drilling system is for a surgical drill, and the drilling system further includes a contact bracket that is (a) configured to be mechanically coupled to the surgical drill, and (b) includes:

[0070] Proximal and distal electrical connectors, and the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the proximal and distal electrical connectors with the proximal conductive outer contact surface and the distal conductive outer contact surface respectively when the connectors are received by the contact bracket.

[0071] For some applications, the distal electrical connector includes a blade, the proximal electrical connector includes a blade, or the distal and proximal electrical connectors include respective blades.

[0072] For some applications, the distal electrical connector includes a brush, the proximal electrical connector includes a brush, or the distal and proximal electrical connectors include respective brushes.

[0073] For some applications, the distal electrical connector includes a rigid contact, the proximal electrical connector includes a rigid contact, or the distal and proximal electrical connectors include respective rigid contacts.

[0074] For some applications:

[0075] The proximal conductive coupler is shaped to define a proximal conductive outer contact surface that faces at least partially proximally, and

[0076] The contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the proximal electrical connector with the proximal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket.

[0077] For some applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface faces entirely proximally.

[0078] For some applications, the proximal electrical connector includes a blade.

[0079] For some applications:

[0080] The distal conductive outer contact surface faces at least partially distally, and

[0081] the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the distal electrical connector with the distal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket.

[0082] For some applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces entirely distally.

[0083] For some applications, the distal electrical connector includes a blade.

[0084] For some applications, the contact bracket includes a clamp configured to mechanically couple the contact bracket to the surgical drill.

[0085] For some applications, the contact bracket is shaped to define a channel for receiving the connector.

[0086] For some applications, the drilling system further includes the surgical drill.

[0087] For some applications, the proximal conductive coupler is in electrical communication with the handle.

[0088] For some applications, the drill bit is for a surgical drill, and the handle of the connector is configured to be electrically connected to the surgical drill.

[0089] For some applications, the drilling system further includes the surgical drill.

[0090] For some applications, the drilling system is for a surgical drill, and the drilling system further includes a contact bracket that (a) is configured to be mechanically coupled to the surgical drill, and (b) includes:

[0091] a distal electrical connector, wherein the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the distal electrical connector with the distal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket; and

[0092] a surgical drill electrical connector configured to be electrically coupled to the surgical drill.

[0093] For some applications, the distal electrical connector includes a blade.

[0094] For some applications, the distal electrical connector includes a brush.

[0095] For some applications, the distal electrical connector includes a rigid contact.

[0096] For some applications:

[0097] The distal conductive outer contact surface faces at least partially distally, and

[0098] The contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the distal electrical connector with the distal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket.

[0099] For some applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces entirely distally.

[0100] For some applications, the distal electrical connector includes a blade.

[0101] For some applications, the contact bracket includes a clamp configured to mechanically couple the contact bracket to the surgical drill.

[0102] For some applications, the drilling system further includes the surgical drill.

[0103] For some applications, the contact bracket is shaped to define a channel for receiving the connector.

[0104] For some applications, the drilling system is for a surgical drill and the drilling system further includes a contact bracket that (a) is configured to be mechanically coupled to the surgical drill and (b) includes:

[0105] Proximal and distal electrical connectors, and the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the proximal and distal electrical connectors with the handle and the distal conductive outer contact surface respectively when the connectors are received by the contact bracket.

[0106] For some applications:

[0107] The distal conductive outer contact surface faces at least partially distally, and

[0108] The contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the distal electrical connector with the distal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket.

[0109] For some applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces entirely distally.

[0110] For some applications, the distal electrical connector includes a blade.

[0111] For some applications, the drilling system further includes a surgical drill, the surgical drill includes a chuck, and the shank is configured to be coupled to the chuck to receive the torque from the chuck.

[0112] According to one application of the present invention, there is also provided a method of using the drill bit as described in any of the above applications, the method comprising:

[0113] Coupling the shank to a chuck of a surgical drill;

[0114] Coupling the proximal and distal conductive couplers to a central unit for electrical communication;

[0115] Activating the surgical drill to penetrate the distal tip of the drill shaft into tissue; and

[0116] Using the central unit, measuring the electrical properties of the tissue sensed through the conductive outer and inner electrodes.

[0117] Further features, details and advantages of the present invention become apparent from the claims and from the following description of the specific embodiments with reference to the drawings, wherein:

[0118] The present invention will be more fully understood by the following specific embodiments of the present invention and in conjunction with the drawings, wherein: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0119] Figure 1A - Figure B is a schematic view of a drilling system according to one application of the present invention;

[0120] Figure 2A - Figure B is a schematic view of the drill bit of the drill bit system according to one application of the present invention; Figure 1A - Figure C is a schematic view of the drill shaft of the drill bit of Figure B according to one application of the present invention;

[0121] Figure 3A - Figure C is a schematic view of the contact bracket of the drill bit system of Figure B according to one application of the present invention; Figure 2A - Figure C is a schematic view of the drill shaft of the drill bit of Figure B according to one application of the present invention;

[0122] Figure 4A - Figure B is a schematic view of the connector of the drill bit of Figure B according to one application of the present invention; Figure 2A - Figure B is a schematic view of the contact bracket of the drill bit system of Figure B according to one application of the present invention;

[0123] Figure 5A - Figure C is a schematic view of the contact bracket of the drill bit system of Figure B according to one application of the present invention; Figure 1A - Figure C is a schematic view of the contact bracket of the drill bit system of Figure B according to one application of the present invention;

[0124] Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of a contact bracket of Application 1 according to the present invention Figure 5A - C;

[0125] Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of a contact bracket of Application 1 according to the present invention Figure 5A - C, Figure 2A a part of a drill bit of - B, and Figure 1A a cross-sectional view of a part of a surgical drill of - B;

[0126] Figure 6C is a cross-sectional view of another contact bracket of Application 1 according to the present invention;

[0127] Figure 6D is another contact bracket of Application 1 according to the present invention, Figure 2A a part of a drill bit of - B, and Figure 1A a cross-sectional view of a part of a surgical drill of - B;

[0128] Figure 6E - F is an illustration of yet another contact bracket of Application 1 according to the present invention;

[0129] Figure 6G is a cross-sectional view of another contact bracket of Application 1 according to the present invention;

[0130] Figure 7 is a schematic view of another contact bracket of Application 1 according to the present invention;

[0131] Figure 8A - B is a schematic view of yet another contact bracket of Application 1 according to the present invention;

[0132] Figure 9A - B is a schematic view of still another contact bracket of Application 1 according to the present invention;

[0133] Figure 10A - B is a schematic view of another contact bracket of Application 1 according to the present invention;

[0134] Figure 11 is a schematic view of a drilling system of - B that further includes a central unit according to Application 1 of the present invention Figure 1A - B;

[0135] Figure 12A - B is a schematic view of a drill shaft according to Application 1 of the present invention;

[0136] Figure 13A - D is a schematic view of another drill shaft according to respective applications of the present invention;

[0137] Figure 14A - B is a schematic view of yet another drill shaft according to respective applications of the present invention;

[0138] Figure 15 Further including a connector according to their respective applications of the present invention Figure 14A - Schematic diagram of the drill shaft of - B;

[0139] Figure 16 - Schematic diagram of a drill bit according to an application of the present invention;

[0140] Figure 17 - Schematic cross-sectional view of another drill bit according to an application of the present invention;

[0141] Figure 18A - B - Schematic diagram of yet another drill bit according to an application of the present invention;

[0142] Figure 19A - B - Schematic diagram of yet another drill bit according to an application of the present invention;

[0143] Figure 20A - B and 20C - Schematic diagrams of the respective configurations of another drill bit according to their respective applications of the present invention;

[0144] Figure 21A - B - Schematic diagram of yet another drill bit according to an application of the present invention; and

[0145] Figure 22A - B - Schematic diagram of yet another drill bit according to an application of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0146] Figure 1A - B - Schematic diagram of the drilling system 10 according to an application of the present invention. The drilling system 10 includes a drill bit 20 and a surgical drill 22, such as a dental handpiece (as shown in the figure) or another type of surgical drill, such as an orthopedic surgical drill (not shown). Figure 1A - The drill bit 20 shown in - B is fixed on the chuck 24 of the surgical drill 22. For some applications, the surgical drill 22 is conventional, such as commercially available. Optionally, the chuck 24 includes a collet, as is known in the art, and for other applications, the chuck does not include a collet, also as is known in the art.

[0147] Please refer to Figure 2A - B, which is a schematic diagram of the drill bit 20 according to an application of the present invention.

[0148] In addition, please refer to Figure 3A - C, which is a schematic diagram of the drill shaft 30 of the drill bit 20 according to an application of the present invention.

[0149] In addition, please refer to Figure 4A-B, which is a schematic diagram of the connector 32 of the drill bit 20 according to an application of the present invention.

[0150] For some applications, the connector 32 of the drill bit 20 includes:

[0151] · A shank 34 configured to receive torque, typically from the chuck 24 of the surgical drill 22;

[0152] · A proximal conductive coupler 36 disposed at the distal end point 28 of the shank 34 and rotationally fixed relative to the shank 34; and

[0153] · A distal conductive coupler 38 rotationally fixed relative to the proximal conductive coupler 36 and electrically isolated from the proximal conductive coupler 36.

[0154] The connector 32 is configured to transfer rotational motion and torque from the surgical drill 22 to the drill bit 20 and electrically connect the drill bit 20 to a contact bracket 26 that can be mechanically coupled to the surgical drill 22, as described below, so as to enable the transmission of electrical signals between the drill bit 20 and the central unit 21. The following description refers to Figure 11 .

[0155] Generally, the distal conductive coupler 38 is shaped to define a distal conductive outer contact surface 62. For some applications, the proximal conductive coupler 36 is disposed at least partially proximal to the distal conductive outer contact surface 62; for example, completely proximal to the distal conductive outer contact surface 62. For other applications, the proximal conductive coupler 36 is not disposed at least partially proximal to the distal conductive outer contact surface 62, as shown in Figure 20A -C; for example, the proximal conductive coupler 36 can be disposed at the same axial position as at least a part of the distal conductive outer contact surface 62.

[0156] For some applications, the drill shaft 30 is shaped to define:

[0157] · A proximal interface 40 rotationally fixed relative to the proximal conductive coupler 36 and configured to transfer torque from the proximal conductive coupler 36 to the drill shaft 30, and

[0158] · A distal tip 42 shaped to be able to penetrate tissue, for example when rotating (e.g., by cutting and / or abrading) or oscillating; the tissue can include bone (e.g., cortical bone) and / or soft tissue.

[0159] For some applications, the drill shaft 30 includes:

[0160] · A conductive outer electrode 44 in electrical communication with the distal conductive coupler 38;

[0161] · A conductive inner electrode 46 having a proximal end portion 48 in electrical communication with the proximal conductive coupler 36 of the connector 32 and electrically isolated from the distal conductive coupler 38 of the connector 32; and

[0162] · An electrical isolation layer 150 (labeled in Figure 3A -B), radially between the conductive outer electrode 44 and the conductive inner electrode 46 to electrically isolate the conductive outer electrode 44 and the conductive inner electrode 46 from each other.

[0163] For some applications, the proximal end portion 48 of the conductive inner electrode 46 is in direct electrical communication with the proximal conductive coupler 36 of the connector 32 (configuration not shown). For other applications, the proximal end portion 48 of the conductive inner electrode 46 is in indirect electrical communication with the proximal conductive coupler 36 of the connector 32, such as through the shank 34 ( Figure 17 configuration shown) or another element of the drill 20, such as a contact spring 82 ( Figure 2B 、 6B 、13A-C and 15 shown configurations).

[0164] For some applications, the drill shaft 30 includes only one conductive inner electrode 46, while for other applications, the drill shaft 30 includes multiple conductive inner electrodes 46, i.e., multi-pole, such as for applications with a drill bit having a large enough diameter to accommodate more than two electrodes, e.g., some orthopedic drill bits.

[0165] Optionally, the drill shaft 30 may be marked with a deep mark.

[0166] The distal end portion 42 of the drill shaft 30 is shaped to define a distal tip 52. Generally, the distal tip 52 and the distal end portion of the optional conductive outer electrode 44 are shaped to penetrate tissue. Optionally, the distal tip 52 is sharp. Or, the distal tip 52 is not blunt. For some applications, the conductive outer electrode 44 is shaped as a trocar (at least 3 surfaces), a drill bit, or a cylinder.

[0167] For some applications, as Figure 2A -B, 3A-C, 12A-B, 13A-D, 14A-B, 15, 16, 20A-C, 21A-B and 22A-B shown, the conductive inner electrode 46 protrudes from the conductive outer electrode 44 at the distal end portion 42 of the drill shaft 30 such that the conductive inner electrode 46 is shaped to define the distal tip 52 of the drill shaft 30.

[0168] The shank 34 is shaped to define a proximal axial portion 35 that is configured to receive torque from the chuck 24 directly or indirectly through an adapter. The shank 34 can be a universal shank or a custom shank. The proximal axial portion 35 can be non-circular in cross-section or circular in cross-section. For example, the outer diameter of the circular cross-section proximal axial portion 35 can be between 1 and 10 millimeters to receive torque.

[0169] For some applications, the outer diameter of the shank 34 is between 1.5 and 4 millimeters, such as between 1.6 and 3 millimeters, such as 2.35 millimeters.

[0170] For some applications, as shown in the figures, the outer diameter of the shank 34 is:

[0171] · less than the outer diameter of the connector 32, such as less than 90% of the outer diameter of the connector 32, such as less than 70% of the outer diameter of the connector 32, such as less than 50% of the outer diameter of the connector 32, such as less than 30% of the outer diameter of the connector 32, such as less than 25% of the outer diameter of the connector 32, and / or

[0172] · at least 10% of the outer diameter of the connector 32, such as at least 20%, such as at least 30% (e.g., about 25% of the outer diameter of the connector 32).

[0173] For other applications, the outer diameter of the shank 34 is equal to the outer diameter of the connector 32 (configuration not shown), or greater than the outer diameter of the connector 32 (configuration not shown).

[0174] Refer to Figure 2B . For some applications, such as when the drill bit 20 is a dental drill bit, the length L1 of the shank 34 measured between the proximal end point 29 of the shank 34 and the distal end point 28 of the shank 34:

[0175] · between 5 and 30 millimeters, such as between 10 and 20 millimeters, such as 15 millimeters, and / or

[0176] · equal to at least 5% of the drill bit length L2, such as at least 10%, such as at least 15%, such as at least 20%, such as at least 25%, where the drill bit length L2 is measured between the proximal end point 29 of the shank 34 and the distal tip 52 of the drill shaft 30; not exceeding 95% of the length L2, such as not exceeding 70%, such as not exceeding 60%, such as not exceeding 50%, such as not exceeding 45%; and / or between 5% and 70% of the length L2, such as between 10% and 60%, such as between 15% and 50%, such as between 20% and 45%, such as between 25% and 45%, such as 40%.

[0177] Optionally or additionally, for some applications, the length L3 of the drill shaft 30 measured between the proximal interface 40 of the drill shaft 30 and the distal tip 52 of the drill shaft 30:

[0178] · between 3 and 80 millimeters, such as between 5 and 65 millimeters, such as 13 millimeters, and / or

[0179] · at least equal to 25% of the length L2, such as at least equal to 50%; not exceeding 95%, such as not exceeding 90%; and / or between 30% and 95% of the length L2 of the drill bit 20, such as between 50% and 90%, such as 48%, the length L2 of the drill bit 20 being measured between the proximal end point of the shank 34 and the distal tip 52 of the drill shaft 30.

[0180] For some applications, such as when the drill bit 20 is an orthopedic drill bit, the length L1 of the shank 34 measured between the proximal end point 29 and the distal end point 28 of the shank 34:

[0181] · between 5 millimeters and 50 millimeters, such as between 10 and 30 millimeters, such as 20 millimeters, and / or

[0182] · equal to between 5% and 70% of the length L2 of the drill bit 20, the length L2 of the drill bit 20 being measured between the proximal end point 29 of the shank 34 and the distal tip 52 of the drill shaft 30, such as between 10% and 50%.

[0183] Optionally or additionally, for some applications, the length L3 of the drill shaft 30 measured between the proximal interface 40 and the distal tip 52 of the drill shaft 30:

[0184] · between 25 and 500 millimeters, such as between 30 and 300 millimeters, such as 150 millimeters, and / or

[0185] · equal to between 30% and 95% of the length L2 of the drill bit 20, the length L2 of the drill bit 20 being measured between the proximal end point of the shank 34 and the distal tip 52 of the drill shaft 30, such as between 50% and 90%.

[0186] Please refer to Figure 2B . For some applications, the proximal interface 40 of the drill shaft 30 is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler 36 by the distal conductive coupler 38. Optionally or additionally, for some applications, the distal conductive coupler 38 and the drill shaft 30 include separate parts coupled together at the proximal interface 40 of the drill shaft 30, as Figure 2B shown.

[0187] Please refer to Figure 2A-B. For some applications, the connector 32 includes an insulator 50 that electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler 38 from the proximal conductive coupler 36. For some of these applications, the distal conductive coupler 38 is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler 36 through the insulator 50 (optionally, mechanically connected using glue). For some of these applications, the distal conductive coupler 38 is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler 36 through the insulator 50 using a lateral mechanical connection 53 (as shown in Figure 17 ), an axial mechanical connection 54 (as shown in Figure 19A -B), and / or using both a lateral mechanical connection 53 and an axial mechanical connection 54 simultaneously (as shown in Figure 2B , 4B , 6B, 6D, 6E, 6G, 13A-B, 13D, 15, 16, 20B, 20C, 21B, and 22B).

[0188] Please continue to refer to Figure 2A -B. For some applications, the insulator 50 includes an isolation ring 72 that is configured to electrically isolate the distal conductive coupler 38 and the proximal conductive coupler 36 from each other.

[0189] For some applications, the connector 32 and the drill shaft 30 include separate parts that are detachably coupled to each other, such as during the assembly of the drill bit 20 before or during a surgical procedure, for example, assembled by a healthcare provider. Optionally, the connectors 32 are detachably or permanently coupled to each other during the manufacturing process.

[0190] For some applications, the proximal end portion 48 of the conductive inner electrode 46 and the proximal conductive coupler 36 of the connector 32 include separate parts that are directly coupled to each other (e.g., by press-fitting or using conductive adhesive).

[0191] Please refer to Figure 2B . For some applications, the connector 32 further includes an internal electrical contact 80 that is in electrical contact with the proximal conductive coupler 36 and electrically isolated from the distal conductive coupler 38. The proximal end portion 48 of the conductive inner electrode 46 is in electrical communication with the proximal conductive coupler 36 through the internal electrical contact 80.

[0192] For some of these applications, the internal electrical contact 80 includes a contact spring 82. For example, the contact spring 82 can axially contact the proximal end portion 48 of the conductive inner electrode 46, as shown in Figure 2B , and as in the following Figure 13A , 13D and 15.

[0193] Please refer to Figure 2A-B and 4A-B. For some applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface 62 extends 360 degrees around the central longitudinal axis 56 of the connector 32. For some of these applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface 62 faces at least partially radially outward, such as completely radially outward, as Figure 2A shown in -B and 4A-B. Generally, in these applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface 62 has a circular outer cross-section. For example, the circular outer cross-section may have a constant diameter along the distal conductive outer contact surface 62, in which case the distal conductive outer contact surface 62 is circular and cylindrical (as shown); or, the circular cross-section may have different diameters along the distal conductive outer contact surface 62, in which case the distal conductive outer contact surface 62 may be conical and / or chamfered, such as in Figure 22A the configuration of the distal conductive outer contact surface 1062 shown in -B, mutatis mutandis, as described below.

[0194] As used in this application, including in the claims, "faces" means points and faces towards. For example, when a surface perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the drill bit faces towards the proximal end of the drill bit in the proximal direction, the surface faces proximally. Similarly, when a surface points away from the central longitudinal axis of the drill bit, the surface faces radially outward. When a surface has an angle relative to the central longitudinal axis of the drill bit, the surface may face partially proximally and partially radially outward, or partially distally and partially radially outward.

[0195] Please continue to refer to Figure 2A -B and 4A-B. For some applications, the proximal conductive coupler 36 is shaped to define the proximal conductive outer contact surface 60. For some of these applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface 60 extends 360 degrees around the central longitudinal axis 56 of the connector 32. For some of these applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface 60 faces at least partially radially outward, such as completely radially outward. Generally, in these applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface 60 has a circular outer cross-section. For example, the circular outer cross-section may have a constant diameter along the proximal conductive outer contact surface 60, in which case the proximal conductive outer contact surface 60 is circular and cylindrical (as Figure 2A shown in -B and 4A-B); or, the circular cross-section may have different diameters along the proximal conductive outer contact surface 60, in which case the proximal conductive outer contact surface 60 may be conical and / or chamfered (configuration not shown, but similar to Figure 22A the configuration of the distal conductive outer contact surface 1062 shown in -B).

[0196] Please refer again to Figure 1A -B, and additionally refer to Figure 5A -C, which is a schematic view of the contact bracket 26 of the drilling system 10 according to an application of the present invention. The contact bracket 26 is configured to transfer an electrical signal from the connector 32 of the drill bit 20 to the central unit 21, as described below with reference to Figure 11 stated.

[0197] For some applications, the connector 32 is partially universal in that it can be mechanically coupled to any commercially available surgical drill (e.g., dental handpiece) without special modification or adaptation of the surgical drill. For these applications, the connector 32 is generally not electrically coupled to the surgical drill but is only electrically coupled to the central unit 21, as described below with reference to Figure 11 stated. Optionally, the surgical drill is partially customized to transmit an electrical signal from the drill bit 20, as described below with reference to Figure 10A -B.

[0198] Please refer also to Figure 6A and Figure 6B , Figure 6A which is a cross-sectional view of the contact bracket 26 according to an application of the present invention, Figure 6B which is a cross-sectional view of the contact bracket 26, a part of the drill bit 20, and a part of the surgical drill 22 according to an application of the present invention.

[0199] Please refer also to Figure 6C , which is a cross-sectional view of the contact bracket 126 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, the contact bracket 126 is the same as the contact bracket 26 and can implement any of its features, mutatis mutandis.

[0200] Please refer also to Figure 6D , which is a cross-sectional view of the contact bracket 626 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, the contact bracket 626 is the same as the contact bracket 126 and can implement any of its features, mutatis mutandis.

[0201] Please refer also to Figure 6E -F, which is an illustration of the contact bracket 726 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, the contact bracket 726 is the same as the contact bracket 126 and can implement any of its features, mutatis mutandis.

[0202] Please refer also to Figure 6G , which is a cross-sectional view of the contact bracket 826 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, the contact bracket 726 is the same as the contact bracket 126 and can implement any of its features, mutatis mutandis.

[0203] The contact brackets 26, 126, 626, 726, and 826 are configured to be mechanically coupled to the surgical drill 22, as shown, for example, in Figure 1A -B, 6B, 6D, 6E, and 6G. For example, the contact brackets 26, 126, 626, 726, and 826 may include a clamp 84 that is configured to mechanically couple the contact bracket to the surgical drill 22. Optionally, for example, the contact brackets 26, 126, 626, 726, and 826 may be coupled to the surgical drill 22 temporarily or permanently by screws or other means.

[0204] For some applications, such as Figure 6A -G shows, the contact brackets 26, 126, 626, 726, and 826 include proximal and distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B. The distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B are configured to optionally transmit electrical signals between the connector 32 and the central unit 21 via wires 18 and / or 16. For some applications, the wires may be detachable from the contact bracket 26 and / or the central unit 21. For some applications, the connector 32 is wirelessly connected to the central unit 21 rather than via wires 18 and 16, in which case typically at least some of the wires are not provided.

[0205] For some applications, such as Figure 6A -G and 7 show, the proximal and distal electrical connectors 88A and / or 88B include respective rigid contacts, such as carbon contacts or rigid contacts including other conductive materials, such as conductive polymers.

[0206] In the configurations shown in Figure 6A -D and 7, the proximal and distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B are shown as being fully radially inward-facing in order to make electrical contact with corresponding electrically contacting surfaces that are fully radially outward-facing in this configuration. This orientation of the proximal and distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B generally also applies to configurations where the corresponding electrically contacting surfaces are only partially radially outward (e.g., inclined), as described below with reference to Figure 22A -B. For configurations where the electrically contacting surfaces face distally or proximally, the proximal and distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B are correspondingly oriented to make electrical contact, as described below with reference to Figure 6E -G.

[0207] For some applications, such as Figure 6A -C and 6E - G show, the contact brackets 26, 126, 726, or 828 are configured such that when the connector 32 is received by the contact brackets 26, 126, 726, or 828, the proximal and distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B are respectively in electrical contact with a proximal conductive outer contacting surface 60 and a distal conductive outer contacting surface 62, as Figure 6Bas shown (for contact bracket 26). As Figure 6E -F shows (for contact bracket 726), as Figure 6G shown (for contact bracket 826).

[0208] For some other applications, such as Figure 6D shown, when contact bracket 626 receives connector 32, contact bracket 626 is configured such that proximal electrical connector 88A is in electrical contact with shank 34 of connector 32. For these configurations, shank 34 is in electrical communication with proximal conductive coupler 36 (which may or may not be shaped to define proximal conductive outer contact surface 60). (Although proximal electrical connector 88A is shown as including blades, as described below with reference to Figure 8A -B, proximal electrical connector 88A may also have any other configuration described herein, mutatis mutandis)

[0209] For some applications, such as Figure 6E -F shows, when contact bracket 726 receives connector 32, contact bracket 726 is configured to bring proximal electrical connector 88A into electrical contact with proximal facing portion 73 of proximal conductive outer contact surface 60. For some of these applications, proximal electrical connector 88A includes blades, as described below with reference to Figure 8A -B. The natural resiliency of the blades generally helps to maintain good electrical contact between the blades and proximal facing portion 73 of proximal conductive outer contact surface 60. Optionally, proximal electrical connector 88A may also have any other configuration described herein, such as a brush or a rigid contact, mutatis mutandis.

[0210] For some applications, such as Figure 6G shown, when contact bracket 826 receives connector 32, contact bracket 826 is configured to bring distal electrical connector 88B into electrical contact with distal facing portion 71 of distal conductive outer contact surface 62. For some of these applications, distal electrical connector 88B includes blades, as described below with reference to Figure 8A -B. The natural resiliency of the blades generally helps to maintain good electrical contact between the blades and distal facing portion 71 of distal conductive outer contact surface 62. Optionally, distal electrical connector 88B may also have any other configuration described herein, such as a brush or a rigid contact, mutatis mutandis.

[0211] Although contact brackets 726 and 826 are shown as including springs 58A and 58B, as described below with reference to Figure 6A -B, for some applications, one or both springs are not provided, such as for springs that urge electrical connectors including blades, as described above, where the blades provide their own resiliency.

[0212] Optionally or additionally, for some applications, when the contact bracket 26 or 126 receives the connector 32, the contact brackets 26, 126, 626, 726 or 826 are configured such that the distal electrical connector 88B is in electrical contact with the conductive outer electrode 44 (the conductive outer electrode 44 is in electrical communication with the distal conductive coupler 38) (the configuration is not shown).

[0213] For some applications, as Figure 6A shown in -D, the contact brackets 26, 126 or 626 include one or more sliders 90, and the distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B are coupled to the sliders 90. The contact brackets 26, 126 or 626 also include one or more springs 58, which are configured and biased to push one or more sliders 90. Thus, in Figure 6A the configuration shown in -C, the distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B are in electrical contact with the proximal conductive outer contact surface 60 and the distal conductive outer contact surface 62 respectively, and a stable and continuous electrical connection is ensured. As described above, in Figure 6D the configuration shown, the proximal electrical connector 88A is in electrical contact with the shank 34 of the connector 32, rather than with the proximal conductive outer contact surface 60.

[0214] In Figure 6A the configuration shown in -B, a single spring 58 pushes a single slider 90, which in turn simultaneously pushes the distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B. In Figure 6C the configuration shown in -D, two respective springs 58A and 58B push two respective sliders 90A and 90B, which in turn push the distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B.

[0215] Optionally, for some applications, after the configurations shown in Figure 6C and 6D are modified such that the contact bracket 126 does not include a slider 90, and the springs 58 directly push the distal electrical connectors 88A and 88B respectively (the configuration is not shown).

[0216] Please continue to refer to Figure 6A -G and additionally refer to Figure 7 , Figure 7 which is a schematic diagram of the contact bracket 226 for an application according to the present invention. Except as described below, the contact bracket 226 is similar to the contact brackets 26 and 126 described above with reference to Figure 6A -D, and any of its features can be implemented and applied mutatis mutandis.

[0217] In Figure 6A the configuration shown in -G, the contact brackets 26 and 126 are shaped to define a channel 86 for receiving the connector 32.

[0218] Typically, the channel 86 comprises a non-conductive material, such as plastic, to prevent a short circuit between the proximal conductive coupler 36 and the distal conductive coupler 38 through the channel 86. Optionally, the channel 86 comprises a conductive material, in which case electrical contact between the channel 86 and the connector 32 is prevented by empty gaps between these conductive elements or gaps between these conductive elements that are at least partially filled with a non-conductive material.

[0219] The passage 86 may be cylindrical or conical, for example.

[0220] In contrast, Figure 7 In the configuration shown, the contact holder 226 is not shaped to define a channel, but is instead configured to abut the connector 32. By way of example and not limitation, the contact holder 226 can be shaped to define an indentation 286 for receiving the connector 32.

[0221] The following references Figure 8A -B, 9A-B and 10A-B respectively described contact brackets 326, 426 and 526 can selectively implement the non-channel features of contact bracket 226, and apply accordingly.

[0222] Reference now Figure 8A -B, which is a schematic diagram of a contact bracket 326 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, the contact bracket 326 is similar to the above reference Figure 6A -D described contact brackets 26 and 126, and any features thereof may be implemented, as applicable, and / or any features of contact brackets 626, 726 and / or 826, as applicable. In this configuration, the proximal electrical connector 88A and / or the distal electrical connector 88B include respective blades 394. Typically, the blades 394 are elastic and ensure that the electrical connectors 88A and 88B are in continuous electrical contact with the proximal conductive external contact surface 60 and the distal conductive external contact surface 62, respectively. Each outer surface may have several electrical contact points. In this configuration, springs 58 are typically not provided, although they may be provided. In addition, in this configuration, wires 18 are typically not provided, although they may be provided.

[0223] Reference now Figure 9A -B, which is a schematic diagram of a contact bracket 426 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, the contact bracket 426 is similar to the above reference Figure 6A-D described contact brackets 26 and 126, and any of its features, uses, and / or any features of contact brackets 626, 726, and / or 826 may be applied mutatis mutandis. In this configuration, proximal electrical connector 88A and / or distal electrical connector 88B each include a respective brush 494. In this configuration, springs 58 are not typically provided, although they may be provided. Additionally, in this configuration, wires 18 are not typically provided, although they may be provided.

[0224] In any configuration described herein that includes more than one electrical connector, the electrical connectors may include any combination of rigid contacts, blades, and / or brushes.

[0225] Please refer again to Figure 1A -B, 2A-B, and 4A-B, and refer also to Figure 10A -B, which is a schematic diagram of contact bracket 526 for an application of the present invention. Except as described below, contact bracket 526 is similar to contact brackets 26, 126, and 626 referred to above with reference to Figure 6A -D, and any of its features, uses, and / or any features of contact brackets 626, 726, and / or 826 may be applied mutatis mutandis. Contact bracket 626 may also optionally implement any features of contact brackets 326 and / or 426 referred to above with reference to Figure 8A -B and 9A-B respectively, mutatis mutandis.

[0226] For some applications, proximal conductive coupler 36 is in electrical communication with handle 34 (see Figure 2A -B and 4A-B). For some of these applications, handle 34 of connector 32 is configured to be electrically connected to surgical drill 22 (as shown in Figure 1A -B).

[0227] For some applications, contact bracket 526 includes distal electrical connector 88B. Contact bracket 526 is configured such that when connector 32 is received by contact bracket 526, distal electrical connector 88B is in electrical contact with distal conductive outer contact surface 62. Contact bracket 526 also includes a surgical drill electrical connector 88C, which is configured to be electrically coupled to surgical drill 22. Surgical drill 22, typically through its chuck 24, is configured to couple handle 34 of connector 32 to be in electrical communication with surgical drill electrical connector 88C when handle 34 is coupled to surgical drill 22 and connector 32 is received by contact bracket 526. In this configuration, contact bracket typically does not include proximal electrical connector 88A because the electrical connection to proximal conductive coupler 36 is achieved through handle 34 rather than through proximal conductive outer contact surface 60. (In this configuration, proximal conductive coupler 36 may or may not be shaped to define proximal conductive outer contact surface 60.)

[0228] The various configurations of the contact brackets described herein can be implemented in any combination, for example, depending on the configuration of the proximal and / or distal conductive outer contact surfaces of the connector, the contact brackets are configured to receive.

[0229] Now refer to Figure 11 , which is a schematic diagram of a drilling system 10 further including a central unit 21 according to an application of the present invention. The drilling system 10 may or may not include a surgical drill 22. The central unit 21 includes a circuit 23 configured to supply power to the conductive outer electrode 44 and / or the conductive inner electrode 46 of the drill bit 20 so as to continuously measure the electrical characteristics representing the load capacity of the tissue structure, and the tissue structure allows current to pass between the electrodes. The central unit 21 is further configured to process the measured characteristics received from the drill bit 20 and provide real-time feedback. The feedback may be a signal perceptible to a human user, such as audio and / or visual and / or tactile. Optionally, the feedback may be an electronic signal transmitted to the control unit of an auxiliary device (such as a drill, a navigation system or a robotic system). The above-mentioned electrical characteristics representing the load capacity of the tissue structure (allowing current to pass through) may be impedance, which is measured by, for example, voltage or current.

[0230] The central unit 21 may be configured to use the drill bit 20 to sense the electrical characteristics of the tissue penetrated by the drill bit 20, such as impedance, impedance change, voltage or voltage change. For example, the central unit 21 may include an impedance meter for measuring impedance and / or impedance change.

[0231] The operator of the surgical drill 22 can use the sensed electrical characteristics to monitor the penetration of the drill bit 20 in the anatomical structure, especially a bone structure having at least two different resistive impedance regions, such as bone (e.g., cortical bone) and soft tissue. In addition, the sensed electrical characteristics enable bipolar measurement of the local electrical characteristics of the tissue. As is known in the field of impedance measurement, it is more difficult or even impossible to measure the local electrical characteristics of the tissue using a single electrode on the drill bit and a remote external skin return electrode.

[0232] Now refer to Figure 12A -B, which is a schematic diagram of a drill shaft 130 according to an application of the present invention. The drill shaft 130 is an implementation of the drill shaft 30 described above and can implement any of its features, mutatis mutandis. In this configuration, the conductive inner electrode 146 of the drill shaft 130 is flush with the proximal end point of the drill shaft 130.

[0233] Now refer to Figure 13A-D, which is a schematic view of the drill shaft 230 for respective applications according to the present invention. The drill shaft 230 is an implementation of the drill shaft 30 described above and can implement any of its features, mutatis mutandis. In this configuration, the conductive inner electrode 246 of the drill shaft 230 protrudes from the proximal end point of the drill shaft 230 towards the proximal end.

[0234] For some applications, such as Figure 13A shown, the conductive inner electrode 246 is recessed within the distal conductive coupler 38 of the connector 32. In other words, the distal end point of the conductive inner electrode 246 is set more distally than the distal end point of the distal conductive coupler 38 of the connector 32.

[0235] For other applications, such as Figure 13B shown in -C, the conductive inner electrode 246 protrudes proximally from the distal conductive coupler 238 of the connector 232. In other words, the distal end point of the distal conductive coupler 238 of the connector 232 is set more distally than the distal end point of the conductive inner electrode 246.

[0236] For other applications, such as Figure 13D shown, the conductive inner electrode 246 is flush with the distal conductive coupler 38 or 238 of the connector 32 or 232.

[0237] Referring again to Figure 13B -C. For some applications, the connector 232 includes an internal electrical contact 280, and the internal electrical contact 280 includes a contact spring 282. The contact spring 282 makes lateral contact with the proximal end portion 248 of the conductive inner electrode 246.

[0238] Now referring to Figure 14A -B and 15, which are schematic views of the drill shaft 330 for respective applications according to the present invention. The drill shaft 330 is an implementation of the drill shaft 30 described above and can implement any of its features, mutatis mutandis. In this configuration, the conductive inner electrode 346 of the drill shaft 330 is recessed within the proximal end point of the drill shaft 330.

[0239] Now referring to Figure 16 , which is a schematic view of the drill bit 420 for an application according to the present invention. Except as described below, the drill bit 420 is generally similar to the drill bit 20 referred to above with reference to Figure 1A-4B and can implement any of its features, as well as any features of other drill bits described herein, mutatis mutandis.

[0240] The distal conductive coupler 438 is integrated into the drill shaft 430 of the drill bit 420 at the proximal interface 440 of the drill shaft 430, and the proximal interface 440 is rotationally fixed relative to the proximal conductive coupler 436 and is configured to transfer torque from the proximal conductive coupler 436 to the drill shaft 430. This is also as referred to above with reference to Figure 13B-D and the following references Figure 17 , 18A -B, the configurations shown in 19A-B and 20A-C.

[0241] Now refer to Figure 17 , which is a schematic cross-sectional view of a drill bit 520 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, the drill bit 520 is generally similar to the drill bit 20 referred to above Figure 1A-4B described, and any of its features can be implemented, as well as any features of other drill bits described herein, mutatis mutandis.

[0242] The connector 532 of the drill bit 520 includes an insulator 550, and the insulator 550 electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler 538 from the proximal conductive coupler 536. The insulator 550 includes a coating or non-conductive adhesive 552.

[0243] Now refer to Figure 18A -B, which is a schematic diagram of a drill bit 620 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, the drill bit 620 is generally similar to the drill bit 20 referred to above Figure 1A-4B described, and any of its features can be implemented, as well as any features of other drill bits described herein, mutatis mutandis.

[0244] The connector 632 of the drill bit 620 includes a non-conductive partition 650, and the non-conductive partition 650 electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler 638 from the proximal conductive coupler 636. The connector 632 is configured to partially electrically isolate the distal conductive coupler 638 from the proximal conductive coupler 636 through a space gap 654 defined between the distal conductive coupler 638 and the proximal conductive coupler 636. As shown, the space gap 654 can extend completely around the connector 632, or can only extend around a part of the connector 632. In this case, the space gap 654 can optionally include two or more space gaps 654. The space gap 654 is generally located around the connector 632. Generally, the non-conductive partition 650 provides a mechanical coupling between the distal conductive coupler 638 and the proximal conductive coupler 636.

[0245] Now refer to Figure 19A -B, which is a schematic diagram of a drill bit 720 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, the drill bit 720 is generally similar to the drill bit 20 referred to above Figure 1A-4B described, and any of its features can be implemented, as well as any features of other drill bits described herein, mutatis mutandis.

[0246] The connector 732 of the drill bit 720 includes an insulator 750 that electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler 738 from the proximal conductive coupler 736. In this configuration, the distal conductive coupler 738 is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler 736 by an axial mechanical connection through the insulator 750.

[0247] Now refer to Figure 20A -B and 20C, which are schematic diagrams of respective configurations of drill bits 820 for respective applications in accordance with the present invention. Except as described below, the drill bit 820 is generally similar to the drill bit 20 referred to above Figure 1A-4B and may implement any of its features, as well as any features of other drill bits described herein, mutatis mutandis.

[0248] The connector 832 of the drill bit 820 includes a distal conductive coupler 838 and a proximal conductive coupler 836 that are shaped to define a proximal conductive outer contact surface 860. The connector 832 also includes an insulator 850 that electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler 838 from the proximal conductive coupler 836. The insulator 850 may implement any of the features of other insulators described herein, mutatis mutandis.

[0249] As shown, the proximal conductive outer contact surface 860 faces at least partially proximally, e.g., entirely proximally. For some of these applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface 860 is 360 degrees around the central longitudinal axis of the connector 832.

[0250] Generally, the distal conductive coupler 838 is shaped to define a distal conductive outer contact surface 862. For some applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface 862 faces at least partially radially outward. Optionally, the distal conductive outer contact surface 862 also faces proximally and / or distally; e.g., the distal conductive outer contact surface 862 may include a radially outward facing portion 863, a proximally facing portion 865, and / or a distally facing portion 871. Optionally, the proximally facing portion 865 surrounds the proximal conductive outer contact surface 860.

[0251] For some applications, as shown, the proximal conductive outer contact surface 860 does not reach the radially outermost surface of the connector 832 (e.g., it may define the distal conductive outer contact surface 862, as shown). For other applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface 860 reaches the radially outermost surface of the connector 832 (configuration not shown).

[0252] For some applications, such as Figure 20CAs shown, the drill shaft 830 of drill bit 820 includes a conductive inner electrode 846 having a proximal end portion 848 integrally formed with a proximal conductive coupler 836 of connector 832 of drill bit 820.

[0253] Now refer to Figure 21A -B, which is a schematic view of a drill bit 920 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, drill bit 920 is generally similar to drill bit 20 referred to above Figure 1A-4B and may implement any of its features, as well as any features of other drill bits described herein, mutatis mutandis.

[0254] The connector 932 of drill bit 920 includes a proximal conductive coupler 936 and a distal conductive coupler 938, which are shaped to define a distal conductive outer contact surface 962. The connector 932 also includes an insulator 950 that electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler 938 from the proximal conductive coupler 936. Insulator 950 may implement any of the features of other insulators described herein, mutatis mutandis.

[0255] As shown, the distal conductive outer contact surface 962 faces at least partially distally, e.g., entirely distally. For some applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface 962 is 360 degrees around the central longitudinal axis of the connector 932.

[0256] Generally, the proximal conductive coupler 936 is shaped to define a proximal conductive outer contact surface 960. For some applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface 960 faces at least partially radially outward. Optionally, the proximal conductive outer contact surface 960 also faces proximally and / or distally; e.g., the proximal conductive outer contact surface 960 may include a radially outward facing portion 967, a distally facing portion 969, and / or a proximally facing portion 973. Optionally, the distally facing portion 969 surrounds the distal conductive outer contact surface 962.

[0257] For some applications, as shown, the distal conductive outer contact surface 962 does not reach the radially outermost surface of the connector 932 (e.g., it may define the proximal conductive outer contact surface 960, as shown). For other applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface 962 reaches the radially outermost surface of the connector 932 (configuration not shown).

[0258] Now refer to Figure 22A -B, which is a schematic view of a drill bit 1020 according to an application of the present invention. Except as described below, drill bit 1020 is generally similar to drill bit 20 referred to above Figure 1A-4BThe drill bit 20 described, and any of its features may be implemented, as well as any features of the other drill bits described herein, mutatis mutandis.

[0259] The connector 1032 of the drill bit 1020 includes a proximal conductive coupler 1036 and a distal conductive coupler 1038, which are shaped to define a distal conductive outer contact surface 1062. The connector 1032 also includes an insulator 1050 that electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler 1038 from the proximal conductive coupler 1036. The insulator 1050 may implement any features of the other insulators described herein, mutatis mutandis.

[0260] The distal conductive outer contact surface 1062 faces distally in part, i.e., is inclined. The circular cross-section of the distal conductive outer contact surface 1062 has different diameters along the distal conductive outer contact surface 1062. For example, the distal conductive outer contact surface 1062 may be conical and / or chamfered. Optionally or additionally, for some applications, the proximal conductive outer contact surface 1060 may be inclined, as described for the distal conductive outer contact surface 1062.

[0261] For some of these applications, the distal conductive outer contact surface 1062 is 360 degrees around the central longitudinal axis of the connector 1032.

[0262] For some applications, the proximal conductive coupler 1036 is shaped to define a proximal conductive outer contact surface 1060, which may have any features of the proximal conductive outer contact surface described herein.

[0263] In one embodiment, the techniques and apparatus described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 942,520, filed December 2, 2019, are incorporated herein by reference and combined with the techniques and apparatus described herein.

[0264] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not limited to the specific displays and descriptions above. Instead, the scope of the present invention includes combinations and sub-combinations of the various features described above, as well as variations and modifications that do not exist in the prior art that those skilled in the art will think of when reading the above description.

Claims

1. A drill bit, characterized in that, comprising: (a) A connector, comprising: (i) A shank configured to receive torque; (ii) A proximal conductive coupler provided at a distal end point of the shank and rotationally fixed relative to the shank; and (iii) A distal conductive coupler that is (1) rotationally fixed relative to the proximal conductive coupler, (2) electrically isolated from the proximal conductive coupler, and (3) shaped to define a distal conductive outer contact surface; and (b) A drill shaft shaped to define: (i) A proximal interface rotationally fixed relative to the proximal conductive coupler and configured to transfer the torque from the proximal conductive coupler to the drill shaft, and (ii) A distal tip portion shaped to penetrate tissue during rotation, wherein the drill shaft comprises: (i) A conductive inner electrode having a proximal end portion electrically connected to the proximal conductive coupler of the connector and electrically isolated from the distal conductive coupler of the connector; (ii) A conductive outer electrode electrically connected to the distal conductive coupler, the conductive outer electrode being disposed around the conductive inner electrode; and (iii) An electrical isolation layer radially between the conductive outer electrode and the conductive inner electrode to electrically isolate the conductive outer electrode and the conductive inner electrode from each other.

2. The drill bit according to claim 1, characterized in that, the shank is shaped to define a non-cross-sectionally circular proximal axial portion for receiving the torque.

3. The drill bit according to claim 1, characterized in that, the shank is shaped to define a cross-sectionally circular proximal axial portion for receiving the torque.

4. The drill bit according to claim 1, characterized in that, the proximal interface of the drill shaft is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler through the distal conductive coupler.

5. The drill bit according to claim 1, characterized in that, the distal conductive coupler is integrated into the drill shaft at the proximal interface of the drill shaft.

6. The drill bit according to claim 1, characterized in that, the distal conductive coupler and the drill shaft comprise separate parts coupled together at the proximal interface of the drill shaft.

7. The drill bit according to claim 1, characterized in that, the connector and the drill shaft comprise separate parts detachably coupled to each other.

8. The drill bit according to claim 1, characterized in that, the proximal end portion of the conductive inner electrode and the proximal conductive coupler of the connector comprise separate parts directly coupled to each other.

9. The drill bit according to claim 1, characterized in that, the proximal end portion of the conductive inner electrode is integrated with the proximal conductive coupler of the connector.

10. The drill bit according to claim 1, characterized in that, the connector further comprises an internal electrical contact that is in electrical contact with the proximal conductive coupler and electrically isolated from the distal conductive coupler, and wherein the proximal end portion of the conductive inner electrode is electrically connected to the proximal conductive coupler through the internal electrical contact.

11. The drill bit according to claim 10, It is characterized in that the internal electrical contact includes a contact spring.

12. The drill bit according to claim 11, it is characterized in that the contact spring is axially in contact with the proximal end portion of the conductive inner electrode.

13. The drill bit according to claim 11, it is characterized in that the contact spring is laterally in contact with the proximal end portion of the conductive inner electrode.

14. The drill bit according to claim 1, it is characterized in that the conductive inner electrode protrudes proximally from the distal conductive coupler of the connector.

15. The drill bit according to claim 1, it is characterized in that the conductive inner electrode is recessed in the distal conductive coupler of the connector.

16. The drill bit according to claim 1, it is characterized in that the conductive inner electrode is flush with the distal conductive coupler of the connector.

17. The drill bit according to claim 1, it is characterized in that the length of the shank measured between a proximal end point and the distal end point of the shank is between 5 and 30 millimeters.

18. The drill bit according to claim 1, it is characterized in that the length of the drill shaft measured between the proximal interface of the drill shaft and a distal tip of the drill shaft is between 3 and 80 millimeters.

19. The drill bit according to claim 1, it is characterized in that the conductive inner electrode is flush with a proximal end point of the drill shaft.

20. The drill bit according to claim 1, it is characterized in that the conductive inner electrode is recessed in a proximal end point of the drill shaft.

21. The drill bit according to claim 1, it is characterized in that the conductive inner electrode protrudes proximally from a proximal end point of the drill shaft.

22. The drill bit according to claim 1, it is characterized in that the length of the drill shaft measured between the proximal interface of the drill shaft and a distal tip of the drill shaft is equal to between 25% and 95% of the length of the drill bit measured between the proximal end point of the shank and a distal tip of the drill shaft.

23. The drill bit according to any one of claims 1-22, it is characterized in that the connector includes an insulator that electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler from the proximal conductive coupler.

24. The drill bit according to claim 23, it is characterized in that the distal conductive coupler is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler through the insulator.

25. The drill bit according to claim 24, it is characterized in that the distal conductive coupler is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler through the insulator by a lateral mechanical connection.

26. The drill bit according to claim 24, it is characterized in that the distal conductive coupler is rotationally fixed to the proximal conductive coupler through the insulator by an axial mechanical connection.

27. The drill bit according to claim 23, it is characterized in that the insulator includes an isolation ring configured to electrically isolate the distal conductive coupler and the proximal conductive coupler from each other.

28. The drill bit according to claim 23, it is characterized in that the insulator includes a coating.

29. The drill bit according to claim 23, wherein, the insulator includes a non-conductive adhesive.

30. The drill bit according to claim 23, wherein, the connector includes a non-conductive partition that electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler from the proximal conductive coupler.

31. The drill bit according to claim 30, wherein, the non-conductive partition electrically isolates the distal conductive coupler from the proximal conductive coupler in part by defining one or more air gaps between the distal conductive coupler and the proximal conductive coupler.

32. The drill bit according to any one of claims 1-22, wherein, the distal conductive outer contact surface extends 360 degrees around a central longitudinal axis of the connector.

33. The drill bit according to claim 32, wherein, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces at least partially radially outward.

34. The drill bit according to claim 33, wherein, the distal conductive outer contact surface has a circular outer cross-section.

35. The drill bit according to any one of claims 1-22, wherein, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces at least partially distally.

36. The drill bit according to any one of claims 1-22, wherein, the proximal conductive coupler is at least partially close to the distal conductive outer contact surface.

37. The drill bit according to any one of claims 1-22, wherein, the proximal conductive coupler is in electrical communication with the shank.

38. The drill bit according to claim 37, wherein, the drill bit is for a surgical drill, and the shank of the connector is configured to be electrically connected to the surgical drill.

39. The drill bit according to any one of claims 1-22, wherein, the proximal conductive coupler is shaped to define a proximal conductive outer contact surface.

40. The drill bit according to claim 39, wherein, the proximal conductive outer contact surface extends 360 degrees around a central longitudinal axis of the connector.

41. The drill bit according to claim 40, wherein, the proximal conductive outer contact surface faces at least partially radially outward.

42. The drill bit according to claim 41, wherein, the proximal conductive outer contact surface has a circular outer cross-section.

43. The drill bit according to claim 39, wherein, the proximal conductive outer contact surface faces at least partially proximally.

44. A drilling system, wherein, it includes the drill bit according to claim 39, the drilling system is for a surgical drill, and the drilling system further includes a contact bracket that (a) is configured to be mechanically coupled to the surgical drill, and (b) includes: proximal and distal electrical connectors, wherein the contact bracket is configured to, when the connector is received by the contact bracket, cause the proximal and distal electrical connectors to be in electrical contact with the proximal conductive outer contact surface and the distal conductive outer contact surface respectively.

45. The drilling system according to claim 44, wherein, the distal electrical connector includes a blade, the proximal electrical connector includes a blade, or the distal and proximal electrical connectors include respective blades.

46. The drilling system according to claim 44, wherein, the distal electrical connector includes a brush, the proximal electrical connector includes a brush, or the distal and proximal electrical connectors include respective brushes.

47. The drilling system according to claim 44, wherein, the distal electrical connector includes a rigid contact, the proximal electrical connector includes a rigid contact, or the distal and proximal electrical connectors include respective rigid contacts.

48. The drilling system according to claim 44, wherein, the proximal conductive coupler is shaped to define a proximal conductive outer contact surface that at least partially faces proximally, and wherein the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the proximal electrical connector with the proximal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket.

49. The drilling system according to claim 48, wherein, the proximal conductive outer contact surface faces completely proximally.

50. The drilling system according to claim 48, wherein, the proximal electrical connector includes a blade.

51. The drilling system according to claim 44, wherein, the distal conductive outer contact surface at least partially faces distally, and wherein the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the distal electrical connector with the distal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket.

52. The drilling system according to claim 51, wherein, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces completely distally.

53. The drilling system according to claim 51, wherein, the distal electrical connector includes a blade.

54. The drilling system according to claim 44, wherein, the contact bracket includes a clamp configured to mechanically couple the contact bracket to the surgical drill.

55. The drilling system according to claim 44, wherein, the contact bracket is shaped to define a channel for receiving the connector.

56. The drilling system according to claim 44, wherein, the drilling system further includes the surgical drill.

57. A drilling system, wherein, including the drill bit according to claim 38, and the drilling system further includes the surgical drill.

58. A drilling system, wherein, including the drill bit according to claim 38, the drilling system is for a surgical drill, and the drilling system further includes a contact bracket that (a) is configured to be mechanically coupled to the surgical drill, and (b) includes: a distal electrical connector, wherein the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the distal electrical connector with the distal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket; and a surgical drill electrical connector configured to be electrically coupled to the surgical drill.

59. The drilling system according to claim 58, wherein, the distal electrical connector includes a blade.

60. The drilling system according to claim 58, wherein, the distal electrical connector includes a brush.

61. The drilling system according to claim 58, wherein, the distal electrical connector includes a rigid contact.

62. The drilling system according to claim 58, wherein, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces distally at least in part, and wherein the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the distal electrical connector with the distal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket.

63. The drilling system according to claim 62, wherein, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces distally completely.

64. The drilling system according to claim 62, wherein, the distal electrical connector includes a blade.

65. The drilling system according to claim 58, wherein, the contact bracket includes a clamp configured to mechanically couple the contact bracket to the surgical drill.

66. The drilling system according to claim 58, wherein, the drilling system further includes the surgical drill.

67. The drilling system according to claim 58, wherein, the contact bracket is shaped to define a channel for receiving the connector.

68. A drilling system, wherein, comprising a drill bit according to claim 38, the drilling system for a surgical drill, the drilling system further includes a contact bracket, the contact bracket (a) being configured to be mechanically coupled to the surgical drill, and (b) including: proximal and distal electrical connectors, wherein the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the proximal and distal electrical connectors with the shank and the distal conductive outer contact surface respectively when the connectors are received by the contact bracket.

69. The drilling system according to claim 68, wherein, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces distally at least in part, and wherein the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the distal electrical connector with the distal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket.

70. The drilling system according to claim 69, wherein, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces distally completely.

71. The drilling system according to claim 69, wherein, the distal electrical connector includes a blade.

72. A drilling system, wherein, comprising a drill bit according to any one of claims 1-22, the drilling system for a surgical drill, wherein the drilling system further includes a contact bracket, the contact bracket (a) being configured to be mechanically coupled to the surgical drill, and (b) including a distal electrical connector, and wherein the contact bracket is configured to electrically contact the distal electrical connector with the distal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket.

73. The drilling system according to claim 72, Characterized in that, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces at least partially distally, and wherein the contact bracket is configured to make the distal electrical connector in electrical contact with the distal conductive outer contact surface when the connector is received by the contact bracket.

74. The drilling system according to claim 73, characterized in that, the distal conductive outer contact surface faces completely distally.

75. The drilling system according to claim 73, characterized in that, the distal electrical connector includes a blade.

76. A drilling system, characterized in that, comprising a drill bit according to any one of claims 1-22, the drilling system further comprising a surgical drill, the surgical drill including a chuck, wherein the shank is configured to be coupled to the chuck to receive the torque from the chuck.

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