Bone mill module with locking mechanism and related systems

Abstract

A milling module (814) for converting bone stock into bone chips includes a housing (816) adapted to be removably attached to a base module (812) including a motor (813). The housing includes a body (818), a milling element (822), a cover (820), and a locking element (824). The milling element for converting bone stock into bone chips is movably disposed in the housing. The cover is shaped to be removably coupled to the body to allow removal of residual bone chips from the milling element. The locking element is movable between an unlocked position in which the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the body and a locked position in which the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and all benefits to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 028,661, filed May 22, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to a milling module for converting aggregate into bone fragments suitable for use in surgical procedures. More specifically, this disclosure generally relates to a modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, including a base module and a milling module. Background Technology

[0004] Traditional medical and surgical procedures often involve using bone fragments (commonly referred to as bone grafts) to bridge gaps between bone segments and provide a natural basis for bone growth.

[0005] For example, spinal surgeries (such as discectomy) use bone grafts. In such surgeries, bone grafts are inserted around implanted rods that keep adjacent vertebrae aligned. The bone graft acts as a lattice upon which vertebral tissue grows to form a bone base surrounding the rods. This base distributes the load applied to the rods. Alternatively, bone grafts can be placed within the intervertebral disc space or in a cage positioned within the intervertebral disc space.

[0006] As another example, orthopedic surgeries such as joint reconstruction and repair, as well as maxillofacial surgeries, use bone grafts. In these procedures, bone grafts serve as fillers and / or grow to form a lattice, as the proteins that form bone serve as building blocks, and the embryonic cells of adjacent living bone cells form new bone from them.

[0007] The ideal source of bone fragments is the patient to 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 compared to donor bone. Therefore, in surgeries requiring bone fragments, the bone material is typically harvested from one of the patient's bones, which may have a small amount of bone missing, usually between 0.25 and 3 cubic centimeters. Bone material removed from the patient for transplantation into another part of the patient's body is called an autologous bone graft.

[0008] Converting bone fragments into bone pieces is typically a two-part process. In the first part of this process, the harvested bone is prepared for milling and use by removing ligaments and other soft tissues unsuitable for forming bone fragments. The prepared bone is then milled into bone fragments to be used as bone grafts. When harvesting bone fragments for conversion into bone pieces, ideally, no more bone fragments are harvested than are needed to provide the required volume of bone pieces. This is because minimizing the volume of bone fragments harvested from the patient results in minimizing trauma to the bone from which the fragments are harvested and the surrounding tissues. Summary of the Invention

[0009] A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes is disclosed. The milling module includes a housing adapted for detachable attachment to a base module including a motor. The housing defines a body, a milling element, a cover, and a locking element. The milling element for converting aggregate into bone flakes is movably disposed within the housing. The cover is shaped to be detachably attached to the body to allow removal of residual bone flakes from the milling element. The locking element is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, in which the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to allow removal of the cover from the body, and in the locked position, the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to prevent removal of the cover from the body.

[0010] A modular system for converting aggregate into bone flakes is also disclosed. The modular system includes a base module containing a motor, a milling module, and a locking element. The milling module includes a housing adapted for detachable attachment to the base module. The housing includes a body, a milling element for converting aggregate into bone flakes movably disposed within the housing, and a cover shaped to be detachably attached to the body. The locking element has a control surface and a locking portion. Furthermore, the locking element is movable between a locked position where the cover cannot be removed and an unlocked position where the cover can be removed. When the milling module is attached to the base module, the control surface is inaccessible and non-actuable, and the locking element is in the locked position; and when the milling module is not attached to the base module, the control surface is accessible and actuable.

[0011] A method for converting aggregate into bone flakes using a modular system is also disclosed. The method includes the following steps: actuating a milling element to convert aggregate into bone flakes while a milling module is attached to a base module; separating the milling module from the base module so that a control surface on a locking element can be accessed; applying force to the control surface to move the locking element to an unlocked position to allow removal of a cover from the body after the milling module has been separated from the base module; and removing the cover from the body of the housing of the milling module.

[0012] A second example of a milling module is disclosed. In this example, the milling module is configured for use with a base module, the base module including a motor, a controller, and a support surface, the support surface including alignment teeth, a sensor, and a boss. The milling module includes a housing adapted for detachable attachment to the base module. The housing includes a bottom surface and an outer wall extending peripherally around the bottom surface. Alignment guides are formed in the outer wall to receive alignment teeth on the base module, the alignment guides being configured to align the milling module with the base module to facilitate effective and proper attachment of the milling module to the base module. Furthermore, module holding elements extend from the bottom surface and define a gap for engaging the boss on the base module and dissipating rotational energy during use of the milling module. The bottom surface has a magnet mounted thereon; the magnet can be detected by the sensor when the milling module is attached to the base module. Milling elements for converting aggregate into bone flakes are movably disposed within the housing.

[0013] A second example of a modular system for converting aggregate into bone flakes is also disclosed. This modular system includes a base module containing a motor, a milling module, and a locking element. The milling module includes a housing adapted for detachable attachment to the base module. The housing includes a body, a milling element for converting aggregate into bone flakes movably disposed within the housing, and a cover shaped to be detachably attached to the body. The locking element is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, in which the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the body, and in the locked position, the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body.

[0014] The milling module, modular system, and method disclosed herein for converting aggregate into bone chips are designed to ensure the maximum possible yield of bone chips. Furthermore, the locking elements of the milling module are designed to reduce the likelihood that the cover of the milling module cannot be removed when the milling module is attached to the base module, and the milling elements within the milling module ensure that the possibility of damage or physical injury during the removal of residual bone chips from the milling module after milling is substantially eliminated. Attached Figure Description

[0015] This disclosure is specifically pointed out in the claims. The above and other features and benefits of this disclosure will be understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings from the following detailed description, in which:

[0016] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips, including a base module and a milling module;

[0017] Figure 2 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the milled module including the cover and locking element, with the locking element in the locked position to prevent the cover from being removed from the body;

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of the milling module, showing the locking element in the unlocked position, allowing the cover to be removed from the body;

[0019] Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional view of another milled module including a cover and a locking element, with the locking element in the locked position to prevent the cover from being removed from the body;

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of the milling module, showing the locking element in the unlocked position, allowing the cover to be removed from the body;

[0021] Figure 6 It is a perspective view of a milled module including a cover and a locking element, wherein the locking element includes a locking arm that prevents the cover from being removed from the body when in the locked position;

[0022] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of another milling module including a collection tray with flaps configured to prevent the cover from being removed when the collection tray is in place and the milling module is attached to the base module.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of another milling module, which includes a cover with a retainer that works with the collection tray to prevent the cover from being removed when the collection tray is in place and the milling module is attached to the base module.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a side view of yet another milling module, including a detachably attached blade holder;

[0025] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the milling module, with the collection disc removed from it;

[0026] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 A bottom perspective view of the milling module, with the collection tray removed from it;

[0027] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for converting aggregate into bone chips using a modular system that includes a base module and a milling module;

[0028] Figure 13 This is an exploded perspective view of another example of a modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips, including a base module and a milling module;

[0029] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 An isolated side view of the milling module;

[0030] Figure 15 yes Figure 13An isolated bottom view of the milling module;

[0031] Figure 16 yes Figure 13 Exploded view of the milling module;

[0032] Figure 17 yes Figure 13 An isolated side view of the milling module, which has a body made transparent;

[0033] Figure 18 It includes a lid and locking mechanism. Figure 17 A partial cross-sectional view of the milling module, showing the locking element in the locked position to prevent the cover from being removed from the body;

[0034] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A partial cross-sectional view of the milling module, in which force is applied to the locking element to remove the cover;

[0035] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 A perspective view of the milling module, in which forces are applied to the shaft to remove the milling element;

[0036] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 A perspective view of the milling module, in which the milling elements are removed from the body;

[0037] Figure 22 This is a flowchart illustrating another method for converting aggregate into bone fragments using a modular system that includes a base module and a milling module.

[0038] Figure 1-22 This is illustrative in nature and not necessarily drawn to scale, and is therefore not intended to represent the relative dimensions of the components of the system described herein. Detailed Implementation

[0039] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a modular system (“System”) 10 is disclosed for milling aggregate and optionally preparing (e.g., cleaning) the aggregate prior to milling. An example of System 10 is shown in... Figure 1 The diagram illustrates system 10, which can also be referred to as a bone milling machine. System 10 includes a base module 12. The base module 12 contains a motor 13 and a drivetrain. System 10 also includes a milling module 14 for converting bone material into bone fragments, which is detachably attached to the base module 12. The milling module 14 can also be referred to as a milling head. System 10 may optionally include a preparation module (not shown) for cleaning bone, which, like the milling module 14, is also detachably attached to the base module 12. The base module 12 is configured to power both the milling module 14 and the preparation module.

[0040] Figure 1This is an exploded perspective view of system 10, in which the milling module 14 is separated from the base module 12. Figure 1 In the example shown, the base module 12 is reusable, while the milling module 14 is disposable. Therefore, the milling module 14 can be discarded after use, and unused or cleaned / recycled milling modules 14 can be attached for further use. Of course, other examples of system 10 include reusable milling modules 14 that can be cleaned and / or autoclaved between uses.

[0041] The milling module 14 of this disclosure is configured to ensure the recovery of bone fragments generated during the milling process to the extent possible. This ensures that, for a given volume of milled bone, the maximum possible volume of bone fragments is recovered and can be used in surgical procedures requiring the use of bone fragments.

[0042] The milling module 14 and base module 12 of this disclosure are further designed to reduce the possibility that, with the milling module 14 attached to the base module 12, the cover 20 of the milling module 14 cannot be removed and the milling elements configured inside the milling module 14 for converting aggregate into bone fragments cannot be actuated. This ensures that the possibility of damage or physical injury during the removal of residual bone fragments from the milling module 14 after milling is substantially eliminated.

[0043] Now for reference Figure 2 A milling module 114 for converting aggregate into bone chips is disclosed, comprising a housing 16 adapted for removable attachment to a base module 12 including a motor 13. The housing 16 defines an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the housing 16 and an outlet opening through which bone chips are discharged from the housing 16. The housing 16 includes a body 118, a milling element 122 for converting aggregate into bone chips movably disposed therein, a cover 120 shaped to be removably attached to the body 118 so that residual bone chips can be removed from the milling element 122, and a locking element 124. The locking element 124 is movably mounted to the body 118 and configured to engage the cover 120 when the housing 16 is removably attached to the base module 12. Locking element 124 is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position, locking element 124 is positioned relative to cover 120 (disengaged from cover 120 in this example) so that cover 120 can be removed from body 118. In the locked position, locking element 124 is positioned relative to cover 120 (engaged from cover 120 in this example) to prevent cover 120 from being removed from body 118. Milling element 122 is positioned below the inlet opening. Milling element 122 converts aggregate into bone flakes.

[0044] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the milling element is shaped to push the aggregate against an impact plate. The impact plate is integral with or fixed to the housing 16. Due to the action of the milling element pushing the aggregate against the impact plate, the aggregate is sheared into bone fragments with a size / volume smaller than the aggregate. Most of the bone fragments fall below the milling element. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the bone fragments fall into a collection tray 44. The collection tray 44 is removable from the housing 16.

[0045] The milling module 14 of this disclosure is further designed such that the housing 16 includes a body 18 to which a cover 20 is detachably attached. The detachability of the cover 20 makes access to the milling element possible. Once the cover 20 is removed, the milling element can be removed through an opening in the body 18 previously covered by the cover 20, or from the underside of the milling module 14 if the milling module 14 is separated from the base module 12. In many forms of this disclosure, the milling element includes a handle. In many examples disclosed herein, the cover 20 of the milling module 14 can only be removed from the body 18 of the housing 16 when the milling module 14 is not attached to the base module 12. Otherwise, when the milling module 14 is attached to the base module 12, the milling module 14 is configured such that the cover 20 is locked in place and cannot be removed from the body 18. Once the rib is formed, the milling module 14 is removed from the base module 12, and then the cover 20 is removed. Once the cover 20 is removed, the milling element is detached from the housing 16. Using a suitable tool, such as a scraper, bone fragments adhering to the milling element are scraped off and placed into a collection tray 44 for holding bone fragments. Furthermore, even after the cover 20 has been removed and the milling element is still in place or has been removed, bone fragments adhering to the inner surface of the body 18 of the milling module 14 can also be recovered for use. Typically, during this part of the procedure, the person recovering the bone fragments will hold the milling element by the handle; otherwise, these bone fragments might be discarded.

[0046] In some examples, the collection tray 44 and the cover 20 are detachably attached to the body 18. In these forms of the present disclosure, one or both of the cover 20 and the collection tray 44 are provided with detection elements. In these forms of the present disclosure, the system 10 is designed such that these elements are detected by sensors in the base module 12 when in place (properly attached to the body 18 of the milling module 14). Conversely, if the sensors do not detect the presence of one or both of the detection elements, the system 10 does not operate, for example, the motor 13 may be actuated. This alerts the person performing the milling process that the system 10 may be in a state where the cover 20 is not secured to the body 18 and / or the collection tray 44 is not properly positioned within the body 18 of the housing 16. In one example, the system 10 may be configured such that when the cover 20 is removed from the body 18, the controller does not allow power to be supplied to the motor 13 and thus prevents actuation of the milling elements.

[0047] The housing 16 is further configured such that an inlet opening is formed in the cover 20. In some forms of this disclosure, the housing 16 is further configured such that an outlet opening exists in the body 18 through which bone fragments fall into the collection tray 44. In some examples of this form of the disclosure, the outlet opening is at least partially aligned with the inlet opening. In some examples of this disclosure, the housing 16 includes features facilitating releasable coupling of the milling module 14 to the base module 12 that drives the milling element. In these examples of the disclosure, the milling element is formed with features releasable coupling of the milling element to a drive spindle that actuates the milling element. Typically, these milling element drive features that releasable coupling the milling element to the drive spindle are accessible through a specific opening in the housing 16, which exists in part for this purpose. In some forms of the disclosure, the milling element is configured to rotate within the housing 16. In some examples of this form of the disclosure, a shaft transmits rotational motion of the drive spindle to the milling element to rotate the milling element. In these examples of the disclosure, the shaft is dual-function. In addition to serving as a drive linkage, the shaft also functions as a handle to be gripped when retrieving bone fragments attached to the milling element. Base module 12 includes a base housing. The base housing houses a number of components of base module 12. The base housing has a top surface. Inside the base housing is a motor 13. Also inside the base housing is a drive spindle. The drive spindle has a head extending through an opening in the top surface of the base housing. Motor 13 drives the drive spindle. When milling module 14 is attached to base module 12, the drive spindle engages the milling element. Rotation of the drive spindle causes a similar rotation of the milling element. Base module 12 may include multiple flaps ( Figure 1 Two flaps are shown (the diagram illustrates this). The flaps can be movably mounted to and extend outward from the base housing. A linkage assembly can be configured to move the flaps into and out of a plurality of openings on the body 18 of the milling module 14. The milling module 14 is positioned on or mounted above the top surface of the base module 12, and the linkage assembly can be used to engage or disengage the plurality of flaps with the plurality of openings. When a flap is engaged in an opening, the base module 12 releasably holds the milling module 14 stationary thereon. When a flap is disengaged from an opening, the milling module 14 can be released from the base module 12. It should be understood that various mechanisms known to those skilled in the art can be used to detachably attach (i.e., releasably connect) the milling module 14 to the base module 12.

[0048] Also shown is a control button mounted to the base housing. The control button is part of the control circuitry. The control circuitry may also include a sensor disposed in the base housing below the top surface. The sensor is configured to detect an indication signal. In one example, the sensor is a Hall effect sensor. The state of the control button and the signal output by the sensor are applied to a controller also disposed in the base housing. The controller is connected to both a power supply and motor 13. The controller is configured to regulate the current applied to motor 13 to actuate motor 13. In many configurations of system 10, the controller is configured to actuate motor 13 only during the period when the button is pressed.

[0049] The applicant's Patent Cooperation Treaty (“PCT”) applications PCT / US2008 / 082348 (WO2009061728), PCT / US2010 / 055646 (WO2011057088), PCT / US2012 / 072160 (WO2013102134), PCT / US2016 / 044386 (WO2017019827), PCT / US2018 / 034700 (WO2018218173) and PCT / US2019 / 068660 (WO2020139995), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, disclose electrically operated systems for converting aggregate into bone fragments, including a milling module, a preparation module, and a base module. Figure 1 As shown, the milling module 14 includes a body 18, to which a cover 20 is detachably attached. The body 18 and cover 20 together form a housing 16 of the milling module 14. The housing 16 is adapted for releasable attachment to a base module 12. The housing 16 includes an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the milling module 14 and an outlet opening through which bone fragments are discharged from the milling module 14. A milling element is movably arranged in the housing 16, between the inlet and outlet openings, for converting aggregate into bone fragments. The milling element includes features for releasable attachment to a motor 13, such that actuation of the motor 13 causes actuation of the milling element. The body 18 of the milling module 14 is adapted for releasable attachment to the base module 12. Figure 1As shown, the body 18 may include an edge. The edge is sized to surround the outer periphery of the top surface of the base module 12. The edge has a plurality of openings. The body 18 is configured such that when the milling module 14 is positioned above the top surface of the base module 12, each of the plurality of flaps integral with the base module 12 can be positioned in and extend through each of the plurality of openings in the edge to attach and secure the milling module 14 to the base module 12. That is, the body 18 includes an edge having a plurality of openings and sized to surround the outer periphery of the top surface of the base module 12, wherein, when positioned as described above, the plurality of flaps on the base module 12 extend through the plurality of openings to become integral with the plurality of openings and attach the milling module 14 to the base module 12.

[0050] The body 18 of the milling module 14 may have a recessed surface, which may be generally circular in shape. The recessed surface includes one (or two) openings. A first opening is concentric with the center of the recessed surface, is circular in shape, and is configured to receive the head of a drive spindle. If a second opening is included, it may primarily be the periphery of the recessed surface, circular in shape, and configured to receive rotational energy to actuate various internal features that may be included in the milling module 14 or cleaning module. The body 18 of the milling module 14 also includes an outlet opening. The outlet opening extends inwardly from a sidewall of the body 18. The body 18 may be formed with two steps extending radially around an opening in a top panel of the body 18. The body 18 is further formed to have a plurality of notches extending inwardly from the periphery of the top panel defining the openings. In some examples, the body 18 is further formed to have a tubular sleeve extending downwardly from the recessed panel. More specifically, the sleeve extends downwardly from the recessed panel to extend around the portion of the panel that defines the periphery of the opening. System 10 is designed such that when milling module 14 is attached to base module 12, the opening and the sleeve are coaxial with the drive spindle.

[0051] The body 18 also includes a cover 20. The cover 20 is detachably attached to the body 18. The cover 20 includes an inlet opening for the housing 16. The body 18 and the cover 20 are configured such that removing the cover 20 from the body 18 allows access to the milling element. As described in detail below, the milling element is detachably attached to the body 18 of the housing 16.

[0052] The cover 20 is shaped as a disc-shaped base with a defined inner surface. In some examples, the base is domed. The base of the cover 20 is shaped to fit into an opening. More specifically, the outer periphery of the base of the cover 20 is sized to sit on a step. The base includes one or more flaps that project radially outward from the cylindrical sidewalls of the base. The one or more flaps are positioned and sized such that when the base of the cover 20 is positioned in the opening in the body 18 and rotated, each flap rotates into a corresponding recess in the body 18 to become integral with the recess and attach the cover 20 to the body 18. For example, in some examples, three flaps project radially outward from the cylindrical sidewalls of the base. These flaps are positioned and sized such that when the base is positioned in the opening, each flap is positioned in a single recess among these recesses and is able to rotate therein. That is, the components forming the system 10 are shaped such that the base can rotate into the opening and such that when the cover 20 rotates, these flaps can rotate into the recesses and become integral with the recesses. The base includes one or more rings extending downward from the inner surface of the base. One of the rings is concentric with the base, positioned on the outer periphery of the base, and rests against a step on the body 18 when mounted to the body 18. The base is also shaped to have an inlet opening. The base is shaped such that when the cover 20 is attached to the body 18, the inlet opening aligns with and is positioned above the opening.

[0053] The cover 20 also includes a feed sleeve. The feed sleeve extends upward from the outer surface of the base of the cover 20 and surrounds the inlet opening. An impact plate (not shown) is rigidly mounted to the cover 20. The components forming the milling module 14 are configured such that the impact plate has a surface just below the periphery of the inlet opening in the base of the cover 20. The milling element of the milling module 14 includes a circularly shaped planar cutting disc. Other shapes of milling elements, i.e., non-circular shapes, are also conceivable. Around the center of the cutting disc are four equally spaced openings. The cutting disc includes the function of converting aggregate into flakes. That is, the cutting disc is further formed to have a plurality of cutting sectors. Integral with and aligned with each cutting sector in its longitudinal axis, the cutting disc has through holes. More specifically, the cutting disc is formed such that each cutting sector extends above the planar top surface of the milling element. The sector is milled to define a cutting edge. Each cutting edge partially defines the parameters of the adjacent opening. A shaft is also part of the milling element, extending downward from the center of the cutting disc. In a typical example, the shaft is permanently attached to the cutting disc. The shaft is configured to connect to the cutting disc and the drive spindle, remain attached to the cutting disc during the removal of the milling element from the body 18, and is suitable for being held. Thus, the shaft extends from the cutting disc and is characterized by a motor 13 that detachably connects the milling element to the base module 12.

[0054] The shaft has a generally cylindrical shape. The shaft is formed to have a head. The diameter of the shaft head allows it to be housed in and rotate within a sleeve integral with the body 18. A cylindrical stem extends below the head. The diameter of the stem is smaller than the diameter of the head. The bottom end of the stem faces the drive spindle and is formed with features for releasably engaging the spindle. In one example, the stem includes one or more notches extending upward from the bottom surface of the stem and spaced radially outward from the center of the stem, wherein the one or more notches are configured to engage one or more complementary teeth on the face of the drive spindle of the base module 12 such that rotation of the drive spindle causes a similar rotation of the milling element.

[0055] A plunger, visible throughout the accompanying drawings, is slidably mounted within the feed sleeve of the cover 20. The plunger is formed with a head and a top plate, from which a rod extends. The rod is sized to slidably fit within the feed sleeve. The top plate is sized to face an area larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the central void in the feed sleeve. Therefore, the top plate limits the extent to which the plunger rod can be pushed into the feed sleeve and the inlet opening.

[0056] The collection tray 44 is slidably disposed in an opening formed in the body 18 of the milling module 14. That is, the collection tray 44 is detachably mounted adjacent to the outlet opening to receive bone fragments discharged therethrough.

[0057] In many examples, housing 16 includes a locking element. The locking element is movably mounted to body 18 and configured to engage cover 20 when housing 16 is detachably attached to base module 12. The locking element is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the locking element is positioned relative to cover 20 such that cover 20 cannot be removed from body 18, and in the unlocked position, the locking element is positioned relative to cover 20 such that cover 20 can be removed from body 18.

[0058] The locking element has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end and defines a longitudinal axis. The locking element may include, for example: Figure 2-5 The locking shafts shown are 124, 224, 324, or as follows: Figure 6The locking arm 424 is shown. Locking shafts 124, 224, and 324 may have various cross-sectional profiles, including but not limited to those selected from oval (e.g., circular), triangular, and rectangular (e.g., square) cross-sectional profiles. The locking element may be coupled to a biasing element, such as a spring. In some examples, the biasing element is configured to push the locking element, such as the locking shaft, in a first direction (e.g., toward base module 12) along the longitudinal axis of the locking element. In other examples, the biasing element is configured to push the locking element, such as the locking shaft, in a second direction (e.g., away from base module 12) along the longitudinal axis of the locking element. In some such examples, the biasing element is adjacent to the locking element, while in other such examples, the biasing element is disposed around the outer circumference of the locking element. The locking element may include a biasing surface that cooperates with the biasing element and the body to bias the locking element in a first or second direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element. In some examples, the biasing surface is located at a first end of the locking element. In other examples, the biasing surface is located at a second end of the locking element.

[0059] Furthermore, the body 18 defines a chamber and the locking element is movably arranged within the chamber. In some examples, the chamber is defined by a locking sleeve and the locking element and biasing element are disposed within the chamber of the locking sleeve. In some examples, the locking element and biasing element are disposed within the locking sleeve, with the biasing element disposed adjacent to the locking element within the locking sleeve. For example, the biasing element may be positioned adjacent to and parallel to the locking element. In some such examples, the biasing element cooperates with a biasing surface at a first end of the locking element to bias the locking element away from the cover along a longitudinal axis defined by the locking element.

[0060] Furthermore, when the milling module 14 is attached to the base module 12, the locking element cooperates with the cover 20 to lock the cover 20 into place. In some examples, the cover 20 defines a locking recess. In some examples, the cover 20 includes a locking flap. In some such examples, the locking flap defines a locking recess and the locking element engages in the locking recess in the locked position. In other examples, the locking element in the locked position engages with the flap (e.g., one side of the locking flap) to prevent the cover 20 from rotating and being removed.

[0061] Nevertheless, the cover 20 defines a locking recess and the locking element is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position, the locking element is not received in the locking recess in the cover 20 and the cover 20 can be removed from the body 18 (e.g., by rotation). In the locked position, the locking element is received in the locking recess in the cover 20 and the locking element prevents the cover 20 from being removed from the body 18 (prevents rotation).

[0062] In an example where the chamber is defined by a locking sleeve and the locking element is disposed within the locking sleeve, the biasing element can be configured to cause a first end of the locking element to pass longitudinally through a first end of the locking sleeve. Furthermore, in some examples, the housing 16 can define a lower plane opposite the cover 20, and the biasing element can even be configured to cause a first end of the locking element to pass longitudinally through the lower plane of the housing 16. In such an example, when the milling module 14 is not attached to the base module 12, the biasing element is configured to push the locking element to the unlocked position, allowing the cover 20 to be removed from the body 18. When the milling module 14 is attached to the base module 12, the base module 12 forces the locking element into a locked position to prevent the cover 20 from being removed from the body 18. This example, and other examples where the base module is shaped to force the locking element into a locking recess, can be referred to as a passive locking configuration because the milling module 14, when attached to the base module 12, forces the locking element into a locked position to prevent the cover 20 from being removed from the body 18, and once the milling module 14 is removed, the cover 20 automatically returns to the unlocked position.

[0063] In other examples, the locking element includes a flap, and a force can be applied to the flap to remove the locking element from the locking recess. For example, now refer to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The locking element 124 includes a flap 138, and once the milling module 114 is removed from the base module 12, a downward force can be applied to the flap 138 to move the locking element 124 out of the locking recess 134 so that the cover 120 can be removed from the milling module 114. Alternatively, reference is now made to... Figure 4 and 5 The locking element 224 includes a flap 238, and once the milling module 214 is removed from the base module 12, an upward force can be applied to the flap 238 to move the locking element 224 out of the locking recess 234 so that the cover 220 can be removed from the milling module 214. These examples may be referred to as having an active locking configuration because the milling module 214 must first be separated from the base module 12, and then a force must be applied to the locking element 224 to move the locking element 224 out of the locking recess 234 and into the unlocked position to allow the cover 220 to be removed from the body 218. In these active locking configurations, the locking elements 124, 224 are biased into the locking recesses 134, 234, and a force must be applied to the flaps 138, 238 even when removed from the base module 12 to allow the covers 120, 220 to be removed. Once the covers 120, 220 are removed from the bodies 118, 218, the milling elements 122, 222 can be accessed or removed from the housing 16 to harvest the bone fragments adhering to the milling elements 122, 222.

[0064] See now Figure 2 and 3The milling module 114 for converting aggregate into bone fragments includes a locking element 124 (locking shaft) and a biasing element 130. The biasing element 130 is configured along the longitudinal axis A of the locking element 124. L-1 The locking element is pushed in a second direction. In this example, the biasing element 130 is disposed around the outer circumference of the locking element 124. The body 118 includes a sleeve 132 that defines a chamber in which the locking element 124 and the biasing element 130 are movably arranged. In this example, the locking element 124 includes a flap 138 located at a first end 126 of the locking element 124 and a foot 140 located at a second end 128, the foot 140 being configured to be received within a locking recess 134 of the cover 120. A force can be applied to the flap 138 (the flap 138 can be pulled downward in the first direction) to remove the foot 140 from the locking recess 134 and move the locking element 124 from a locked position to an unlocked position to allow subsequent removal of the cover 120 from the body 118. Figure 2 The diagram shows the locking element 124 in the locked position. That is, the foot 140 of the locking element 124 is received in the locking recess 134 in the cover 120 and the locking element 124 prevents the cover 120 from rotating and being removed from the body 118. Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the locking element 124 in the unlocked position. That is, when the flap 138 is pulled downwards by F... 1-1 The foot 140 of the locking element 124 is not received in the locking recess 134 in the cover 120 and the cover 120 can be rotatably removed from the body 118. 2-1 .

[0065] See now Figure 4 and Figure 5 The milling module 214 for converting aggregate into bone fragments includes a locking element 224 (locking shaft) and a biasing element 230, the biasing element 230 being configured to operate along the longitudinal axis A of the locking element 224. L-2 The locking element 224 is pushed in a first direction. In this example, the biasing element 230 is disposed around the outer circumference of the locking element 224. The body 218 includes a locking sleeve 232 defining a chamber. The locking element 224 and the biasing element 230 are movably disposed in the locking sleeve 232. In this example, the locking element 224 includes a flap 238 located at a first end 226 of the locking element 224 and a foot 240 located at a second end 228, the foot 240 being configured to be received within a locking recess 234 in the cover 220, wherein a force (e.g., a thrust) can be applied to the flap 238 to remove the foot 240 from the locking recess 234 and move the locking element 224 from a locked position to an unlocked position to allow subsequent removal of the cover 220 from the body 218. Figure 4The locking element 224 in the locked position is shown. The locking recess 234 in this example includes a channel portion in which the locking element 224 (locking shaft) is disposed, and a recess portion on the top surface of the cover 220. When the flap 238 is pushed, the locking element 224 moves along the longitudinal axis A within the channel portion. L-2 The foot 240 on the second end 228 of the locking element 224 moves in the second direction and lifts from the recess in the cover 220 to allow the cover 220 to rotate and be removed. That is, the foot 240 of the locking element 224 is received in the locking groove 234 in the cover 220 and the locking element 224 prevents the cover 220 from being removed from the body 218. Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the locking element 224 in the unlocked position. That is, when the wing 238 is pulled downwards by F... 1-2 The foot 240 of the locking element 224 is not received in the locking groove 234 in the cover 220 and the cover 220 can be rotatably removed from the body 218. 2-2 .

[0066] See now Figure 6 A milling module 314 for converting aggregate into bone flakes includes a body 318, a cover 320, a collection tray 344, and a locking element 324. The locking element 324 (a locking arm shown in dashed lines) has a first end 326 and a second end 328 and is pivotally mounted to the body 318. In this example, the cover 320 defines a locking recess 334. Furthermore, the locking element 324 includes a foot 340 at the second end 328, a mounting element 342, and an optional biasing element, the foot 340 being configured to be received in the locking recess 334 in the cover 320. In some examples, the locking element 324 is biased into the locking recess 334 by the biasing element. In other examples, the foot 340 and the locking recess 334 have an interference fit. The mounting element 342 engages the body 318 and the locking element 324 and acts as a pivot point. In some examples, the biasing element may be positioned adjacent to the mounting element 342. Locking element 324 is biased to the locked position and a force F is applied to the first end 326 of locking element 324. 1-3 Pivot the locking element 324 from the locked position to the unlocked position to allow the application of force F. 2-3 And rotate the cover 320 to remove it from the body 318. When the milling module 314 is attached to the base module 312, the abutment elements 313 on the base module 312 (shown in dashed lines, those abutting the locking element 324) prevent the locking element 324 from pivoting to the unlocked position and subsequently removing the cover 320 from the body 318. Once the milling module 314 is removed from the base module 312, force F can be applied. 1-3The wing 338, located at the first end 326 of the locking element 324 opposite to the foot 340, prevents the foot 340 from being received in the locking groove 334 in the cover 320. The cover 320 can be opened by force F. 2-3 Remove it from the main body 318 by rotating it.

[0067] Figure 6 The milling module 314 has an active locking configuration because the milling module 314 must first be separated from the base module 312, and then a force F must be applied to the locking element 324. 2-3 The locking element 324 is moved out of the locking recess 334 and into the unlocked position to allow the cover 320 to be removed from the body 318. In this active locking configuration, the locking element 324 is biased into the locking recess 334, and a force must be applied to the flap 338 even when removed from the base module 312 to allow the cover 320 to be removed. Although the exemplary milling module 314 has an active locking configuration, it should be understood that the milling module can be configured to have a passive locking mechanism by utilizing a biasing element that biases the second end 328 of the locking element 324 out of the locking recess 334.

[0068] As described in this article Figure 2-6 The exemplary milling modules 114, 214, 314 of 13-21 include covers 120, 220, 320, 820, which define an inner surface, an outer surface, sidewalls, and one or more flaps projecting radially outward from the sidewalls. These flaps are positioned and sized such that when the covers 120, 220, 320, 820 are positioned on and rotated on bodies 118, 218, 318, 818, each flap rotates into a corresponding notch in the bodies 118, 218, 318, 818 to attach the covers 120, 220, 320, 820 to the bodies 118, 218, 318. These examples prevent the covers 120, 220, 320, 820 from rotating under certain conditions, which prevents the covers 120, 220, 320, 820 from being removed from the bodies 118, 218, 318, 818.

[0069] Now for reference Figure 7 and 8 The milling modules 414 and 514, and the collection trays 444 and 544 are designed to prevent the covers 420 and 520 from being rotated off. These specific milling modules 414 and 514 are related to... Figure 2-6 The difference lies in the fact that the collection trays 444 and 544 prevent the covers 420 and 520 from moving when they are inserted into the milling modules 414 and 514. That is, if the collection trays 444 and 544 are installed and in place, the covers 420 and 520 cannot be removed. Furthermore, Figure 7 and 8The milling modules 414 and 514 utilize a detection system to ensure that the collection trays 444 and 544 are correctly installed in the milling modules 414 and 514. If the collection trays 444 and 544 are correctly installed in the milling modules 414 and 514, the detection system cooperates with the controller to allow the actuation of the motor 13 and, consequently, the actuation of the milling element. If the collection trays 444 and 544 are not correctly installed in the milling modules 414 and 514, the detection system cooperates with the controller to prevent the actuation of the motor 13 and the milling element. Therefore, the motor 13 can only be actuated if the collection trays 444 and 544 are correctly installed in the milling modules 414 and 514. If the collection trays are correctly installed, the covers 420 and 520 cannot be removed from the housing bodies 418 and 518 to access the milling element. These milling modules 414, 514 will not allow the covers 420, 520 to be removed, in order to prevent the user from actuating the milling components while the covers 420, 520 are off the milling modules 414, 514.

[0070] Figure 7 and 8 The system uses sensors attached to the base module 12; the sensors are adapted to monitor the presence / absence of the housing, collection trays 444, 544, and generate sensor signals that vary with the presence / absence of collection trays 444, 544. A controller in the base module 12 is configured to adjust the actuation of the drive components based on the sensor signals. When the sensor signals indicate that collection trays 444, 544 are absent, the controller disables actuation of the milling elements. In some non-limiting examples, the sensors in the base module 12 (e.g., Hall effect sensors) are configured to monitor the presence of a magnetic field, and magnets are mounted to collection trays 444, 544. When collection trays 444, 544 are properly mounted in the bodies 418, 518 of the housing and the bodies 418, 518 are situated in the base module 12, the magnets are positioned above the sensors. In other examples, other signal generators and sensors known in the art are used. In some examples, when the collection trays 444, 544 are correctly installed in the milling modules 414, 514, the controller activates the light-emitting diodes (LEDs) near the switch to provide a visual indication that the collection trays 444, 544 are installed in the base module 12.

[0071] Now for reference Figure 7 The milling module 414 and the collection tray 444 include a base from which panels extend upward. A locking element 424, in the form of a wing, is positioned on one or a combination of the panels (shown in the figure as...). Figure 7(on the side panel of the middle) and extends upward therefrom. A channel 460 in the body 418 accommodates a locking element 424 to allow the collection tray 444 to be inserted into and mounted in the base module 12. When the collection tray 444 is mounted in the milling module 414, it cooperates with a slot 462 on the cover 420 to prevent it from rotating and being removed. That is, the locking element 424 of the collection tray 444 is received within the slot 462 in the cover 420, and the locking element 424 prevents the cover 420 from being removed from the body 418. However, referring again... Figure 7 If the collecting disk 444 passes through force F 1-4 When removed from the milling module 414, the locking element 424 is not received in the slot 462 in the cover 420, and the cover 420 can be accessed by force F. 2-4 The cover 420 is rotatably removed from the body 418, and the interior of the milling module 414 can be accessed, but the motor cannot be actuated. Therefore, the collection tray 444 must be properly installed in the milling module 414 to actuate the motor 13, and if the collection tray 444 is installed in the milling module 414, the locking element 424 prevents the cover 420 from being rotated and removed, as well as prevents subsequent access to the milling elements and the interior of the milling module 414.

[0072] Now for reference Figure 8 The cover 520 includes a retainer 586 with a stop surface 588 (shown in dashed lines). When the cover 520 is attached to the milling module 514 and the collection tray 544 is mounted in the milling module 514, the stop surface 588 is configured to engage with a rear surface on the rear panel 558 of the collection tray 544 to prevent the cover 520 from rotating and being removed from the milling module 514. If the collection tray 544 is correctly positioned in the milling module 514, the detection system cooperates with the controller to allow the actuation motor 13 and the milling element to be actuated while preventing the cover 520 from being removed from the body 518 (because rotation of the cover 520 is prevented). Otherwise, if the collection tray 544 is not correctly positioned, the cover 520 can be removed from the body 518, and the detection system cooperates with the controller to prevent the actuation of the motor 13 and the milling element. That is, if the collection tray 544 is subjected to a force F 1-5 Removing the milling module 514 prevents the rear surface of the rear panel 558 of the collection tray 544 from being positioned as a contact stop surface 588 to prevent the cover 520 from rotating. Therefore, the cover 520 can be rotated by force F. 2-5 The cover 520 can be rotated off from the body 518 and the interior of the milling module 514 can be accessed, but the motor cannot be actuated. Therefore, the motor 13 can only be actuated if the collection tray 544 is properly positioned within the milling module 514, and if the collection tray is properly positioned, the cover 520 cannot be removed to access the milling elements.

[0073] Figure 9-11The milling module 614 includes a housing containing a body 618 and a cover 620, and also includes a collection tray 644. Figure 10 and 11 The collection tray 644 described herein has a base 646, and a panel 648 extends upward from the base 646, including a rear panel 658 having a rear surface. A handle 652 protrudes outward from the front panel 654, which is visible when the collection tray 644 is arranged in the milling module 614. The handle 652 serves as part of the collection tray 644, which is gripped by the user to insert and remove the collection tray 644 from the milling module 614. Once the collection tray 644 is installed in the milling module 614, various mechanisms can be employed to further secure or retain the collection tray 644 within the milling module 614.

[0074] In some examples, the milling module 614 includes a blade holder 664. The blade holder 664 is removable from the milling module, which allows for the collection of residual bone left within the milling module 614 and on the milling element 622 after use. Therefore, the blade holder 664 allows for high efficiency and optimization of bone fragment production because it provides a user-friendly configuration for recycling residual milling bone fragments. Figure 9-11 In this design, the blade holder 664 includes a circular upper tray 666 and a central sleeve 668. The blade holder 664 is detachably attached to the body 618 of the housing. The central sleeve 668 is concentric with the center of the upper tray 666 and has a circular shape. The central sleeve 668 extends downward from the upper tray 666. The system 10 is designed such that when the milling module 614 is attached to the base module 12, the opening and the central sleeve 668 are coaxial with the drive spindle. Furthermore, the upper tray 666 includes an upper surface 670 having a clearance 676 therein and sidewalls 672 positioned around and extending upward from the outer circumference of the upper surface 670. During milling, the milled blade passes through the clearance 676 and enters a collection tray 644. The sidewalls 672 include one or more flaps 674 projecting radially outward from the sidewalls 672. The one or more blades 674 are positioned and sized such that when the blade holder 664 is positioned within the body 618 and rotated, each blade 674 rotates out of a corresponding notch (not shown) in the body 618 to remove the blade holder 664, so as to facilitate easy access to any residual bone fragments that may be arranged on the upper surface 670 of the upper tray 666 and on the milling element 622.

[0075] In other words, the blade holder 664 is inside and detachably attached to the body 618 of the housing. The center sleeve 668 serves as a handle, and when the milling module 614 is removed from the base module, the user can rotate the blade holder 664 in a first direction and thus rotatably engage each of the aforementioned one or more blades 674 in each of the corresponding recesses in the body to hold the milling element 622 in the milling module 614. Furthermore, the center sleeve 668 of the blade holder 664 can rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and thus rotatably disengage each of the aforementioned one or more blades 674 from each of the corresponding recesses in the body to allow subsequent removal of the blade holder 664 from the body, thereby facilitating easy access to any residual blades that may be disposed on the upper surface 670 of the upper tray 666 and on the milling element 622.

[0076] The blade holder 664 is movably mounted to the housing and configured to move from an engaged position to a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the blade holder 664 cooperates with the body 618 to hold the milling element 622 within the housing, such that the milling module 614 is configured to receive power from a motor when attached to the base module. In the disengaged position, the blade holder 664 and the milling element 622 can be removed from the milling module 614, allowing residual bone fragments to be harvested from the blade holder 664 and the milling element 622 after the milling process to increase bone fragment yield. Reference now. Figure 9 This shows that the blade holder 664 has been removed; at arrow F 1-6 At point F, a rotational force is applied to disengage the blade 674 from the notch, and at arrow F... 2-6 At this point, the blade holder 664 is removed from the milling module 614.

[0077] In many examples, at least one of the housing 16, the body 18, and the cover 20 is transparent. The transparent element allows the user to observe the milling process while using the system 10, and also allows observation of any residual bone fragments that may be contained in the milling module 14 when the milling process is complete.

[0078] This disclosure also includes a method for converting aggregate into bone flakes. A first example method 700 can be used with the example system and exemplary base module described herein, as well as the milling module. The system of this disclosure can be prepared for use by connecting the base module to a power source. The milling module is mounted on and attached to the top surface of the base module. Positioning the flaps in the openings releasably holds the milling module to the base module. Before, during, or after attaching the milling module to the base module, a cover is attached to the milling module, and the locking element of the milling module is moved to a locked position relative to the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body. In one example, the milling module is attached to the base module with the cover attached and the locking element of the milling module in the locked position. Once the milling module is attached, the cover and receiving tray are inspected to ensure they are correctly attached and in place. Once the cover and receiving tray are correctly installed in place, the system of this disclosure is ready for use.

[0079] See now Figure 12 Method 700 includes the following steps: attaching a milling module to a base module 702, wherein before, during, or after attaching the milling module to the base module, a cover is attached to the milling module and a locking element of the milling module is moved to a locked position relative to the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body; introducing aggregate into the housing through an inlet opening 704; actuating a milling element to convert the aggregate into bone fragments and discharging the bone fragments through an outlet opening 706; removing the milling module from the base module 708; moving the locking element to an unlocked position to allow the cover to be removed from the body 710; and removing the cover 712 from the body of the housing of the milling module.

[0080] In some examples, the system and / or milling module includes a passive locking configuration because the attachment of the milling module to the base module forces a locking element (e.g., a locking shaft) into a locked position to prevent the cover from being removed from the body. In such methods, the step of attaching the milling module to the base module 702 forces the locking element to engage with the cover.

[0081] In other examples, the system and / or milling module includes an active locking configuration because the milling module must first separate from the base module, and then a force must be applied to a locking element (e.g., a locking shaft) to move the locking element to an unlocked position, thereby allowing the cover to be removed from the body. In some such methods, step 710 of moving the locking element to the unlocked position to allow the cover to be removed from the body further includes applying a force to the locking element to disengage the locking element from the cover after the step of removing the milling module from the base module.

[0082] After step 708, which involves removing the milling module from the base module, method 700 may further include the step of removing the insert holder. In some examples, a rotational force is applied to disengage the insert holder from the housing and remove the insert holder from the milling module. The insert holder facilitates easy access to any residual bone fragments that may be disposed on the upper surface of the tray and on the milling elements.

[0083] Method 700 may further include the step of collecting residual bone fragments from the inner surface of the body and the milling element after the cap and / or blade holder have been removed from the body. Method 700 may further include the step of removing the milling element from the milling module and collecting residual bone material and / or bone fragments from its surface.

[0084] The system 10 and method 700 of this disclosure provide a manner for using bone fragments that are inaccessible and unusable when formed. This feature also reduces the overall size of the bone material that a practitioner needs to harvest from the patient to provide the necessary volume of bone fragments for surgery. This reduction in the volume of harvested bone material is used to similarly reduce the trauma suffered by the patient due to the need to harvest bone fragments.

[0085] Figure 13 An exploded perspective view of another example of a modular system 810 for converting aggregate into bone chips, including a base module 812 and a milling module 814. Figure 13-21 Various perspective views of the milling module 814 are provided. The milling module 814 includes a housing 816 adapted for detachable attachment to a base module 812 including a motor 813. The housing 816 defines an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the housing 816 (not shown in the figures, as the inlet opening is located on a cover 820 at the bottom of the feed sleeve 930), and, in this example, an outlet opening 928 through which bone fragments are discharged from the housing 816 and enter a collection tray 844. The housing 816 includes a body 818, a milling element 822, a cover 820, and a locking element 824. The milling element 822, which converts aggregate into bone fragments, is movably arranged within the housing 816. The cover 820 is shaped to be detachably attached to the body 818 to allow removal of residual bone fragments from the milling element 822. The locking element 824 is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position, locking element 824 is positioned relative to cover 820 to allow cover 820 to be removed from body 818. In the locked position, locking element 824 is positioned relative to cover 820 to prevent cover 820 from being removed from body 818.

[0086] Figure 15 yes Figure 13An isolated side view of the milling module 814 of the modular system for converting aggregates is shown. In this example, the milling module 814 includes a collection tray 844. The collection tray 844 is disposed in an opening 900 in the body 818 (because the collection tray 844 is arranged in this opening, the opening is in...). Figure 13 Invisible in the middle, but in Figure 16 (See in the middle). Figure 16 The collection tray 644, shown in an isolated view, has a bottom 846, from which a panel 848 extends upward, including a rear panel 858 with a rear surface. A handle 852 protrudes outward from the front panel 854, as... Figure 14 As shown, the front panel 854 is visible when the collection tray 844 is arranged in the milling module 814. A handle 852 serves as part of the collection tray 844, which the user grasps to insert and remove the collection tray 844 from the milling module 814. Once the collection tray 844 is installed in the milling module 814, various mechanisms can be employed to further secure or retain the collection tray 844 within the milling module 814.

[0087] exist Figure 13-21 In the example, the body 818 of the housing 816 also includes a base plate 902, the base plate 902 having a top surface 904, a bottom surface 906, and an outer wall 910 extending peripherally around the bottom surface 906. The top surface 904 of the base plate 902 defines a recess 912 having a bottom plate 914, and the opening 900 and the recess 912 are configured to receive a collection tray 844. The top surface 904 of the base plate 902 is as follows: Figure 16 As shown, the bottom surface 906 and outer wall 910 of the base plate 902 are as follows: Figure 15 As shown. The base plate 902 includes a first retaining element 916 configured to engage a corresponding retaining element on the collection tray 844 to bias the collection tray 844 toward the rear wall 918 of the recess 912, thereby mounting the collection tray 844 to the housing 816. In this example, the first retaining element 916 is a cut-out retaining wing with a protrusion on the bottom plate 914 of the base plate 902, and the corresponding retaining element is a notch on the bottom 846 of the collection tray 844. The cut-out retaining wing and the notch can also be referred to as flexible latches. Of course, this arrangement can be reversed, with the first retaining element 916 being a cut-out retaining wing on the bottom 846 of the collection tray 844, and the corresponding retaining element being a notch on the bottom plate 914 of the base plate 902. Similarly, the cut-out retaining wing can define a notch and the second retaining element can be a protrusion.

[0088] Furthermore, in this particular example, the outer wall 910 of the base plate 902 defines an alignment guide 920. The alignment guide 920 is formed in the outer wall 910 to receive alignment teeth 922 on the base module 812, the alignment guide being configured to align the milling module 814 with the base module 812 and facilitate effective and proper attachment of the milling module 814 to the base module 812. In other words, the alignment guide 920 is formed to receive alignment teeth 922 on the base module 812, and the alignment guide 920 is configured to align the milling module 814 with the base module 812 and facilitate effective and proper attachment of the milling module 814 to the base module 812. Once the milling module 814 and the base module 812 are aligned, the milling module 814 is attached to the base module 812 when a plurality of openings 958 on the outer wall 910 of the base plate 902 receive corresponding flaps 960 on the base module 812.

[0089] Furthermore, in this example, the base plate 902 has a magnet 924 mounted thereon. When the milling module 814 is attached to the base module 812, the magnet 924 can be detected by a sensor 890 in the base module 812. The sensor is positioned on the base module 812 to monitor the presence of the magnet 924 and generate a sensor signal for a controller configured to adjust the motor 813 based on the presence of the magnet 924. Of course, if the controller on the base module 812 instructs the milling module 814 to be attached to the base module 812, the controller can control the actuation of the motor 813 to ensure optimal process parameters for bone milling, such as speed (rpm) and processing time (seconds). Similarly, if the base module 812 detects that a different module, such as a preparation module, is attached to the base module 812, the controller can control the actuation of the motor 813 to ensure optimal process parameters for bone cleaning, such as speed (rpm) and processing time (seconds). In some examples, the controller is configured to work with sensors to detect the attachment of modules (e.g., milling module 814 or preparation module) for safety purposes.

[0090] Now for reference Figure 14 It is Figure 13 The image shows an isolated side view of the milling module 814 of the modular system 810 for converting aggregates. The cover 820 of the milling module 814 defines an inlet opening, which is not visible because a feed sleeve 930 is arranged around it. The feed sleeve 930 has an inner surface 932 and an outer surface 933 and is sized to slidably receive a plunger 936. See now. Figure 16The plunger 936 includes a second retaining element 934 configured to engage a corresponding retaining element on the feed sleeve 930 to bias the plunger 936 toward the inlet opening and engage the plunger 936 within the feed sleeve 930. In this example, the second retaining element 934 is a cut-out retaining flap on the plunger 936, and the corresponding retaining element is a notch on the inner surface 932 of the feed sleeve 930. The cut-out retaining flap and the notch can also be referred to as flexible latches. Of course, this arrangement can be reversed, with the second retaining element 934 being a cut-out retaining flap on the feed sleeve 930 and the corresponding retaining element being a notch on the plunger 936. Similarly, the cut-out retaining flap can define a notch and the second retaining element can be a protrusion. In this example, the flexible stop is located on the side surface of the plunger 936 opposite to the locking groove 834, such that the plunger 936 is biased toward the impact plate side of the housing 816, so that the aggregate is not stuck between the opposite side surface of the plunger 936 and the inner surface 932 of the feed sleeve 930.

[0091] Now for reference Figure 17-20 Locking element 824 is shown at 824. In this example, locking element 824 defines the longitudinal axis A. L-3 It includes a control surface 838 at the first end 826 and a locking portion 840 at the second end 828. For example... Figure 17 As shown in the best example, Figure 17 This is a side view of a milled module 814 in which the body 818 is made as a transparent part. The body 818 defines a channel 938 and a locking element 824 is at least partially disposed within the channel 938. The locking element 824 is movably mounted to the body 818 and coupled to a biasing element 830. The biasing element 830 cooperates with surfaces on the cover 820 and / or the body 818 along the longitudinal axis A. L-3 The locking element 824 is biased in the first direction.

[0092] In some examples, such as those shown previously, the biasing element 830 is arranged around the outer circumference of the locking element 824, the body 818 defines a chamber, and the locking element 824 is movably arranged in the chamber. The body 818 may even include an actuation guide, such as a sleeve, in which the locking element 824 is at least partially arranged.

[0093] exist Figure 17In the example shown, the biasing element 830 is disposed adjacent to the locking element 824. In this example, the cover 820 defines a locking recess 834 and the locking element 824 is movable between: an unlocked position, wherein the locking portion 840 is not received within the locking recess 834 in the cover 820 to allow removal of the cover 820 from the body; and a locked position, wherein the locking portion 840 is received within the locking recess 834 in the cover 820 and the locking element 824 prevents the cover 820 from being removed from the body 818. In this example, the locking portion 840 includes a foot configured to be received within the locking recess 834 in the cover 820. Once the milling module 814 is removed from the base module 812, a force F is applied to the control surface 838. 1-7 Remove the foot from the locking recess 834 to allow the cover 820 to rotate and be removed from the body 818.

[0094] like Figure 17 As shown, a biasing surface 940 is disposed near the second end 828 of the locking element 824. The biasing surface 940 is opposite to the control surface 838. The biasing surface includes a biasing element mount 942. In this example, the biasing element 830 is arranged around the biasing element mount 942 and abuts against the inner surface of the body 818, thereby along the longitudinal axis A. L-3 The base module 812 is biased towards the locking element 824 in the first direction.

[0095] refer to Figure 16 Exploded diagram and Figure 17 In the view, the body 818 defines a channel 938 extending between a locking opening 944 and a control opening 946, wherein a locking element is at least partially disposed within the channel 938. In this example, a first end 826 of the locking element 824 is located in the control opening 946, and a locking portion in the second end 828 of the locking element 824 is movably disposed within (through) the locking opening 944. As previously described, the body 818 of the housing 816 also includes a base plate 902. Figure 15 and 16 As shown, the base plate 902 defines the control opening 946. The bottom surface of the base plate includes a module retaining element 962. The module retaining element 962 extends from the bottom surface 906 and defines a gap for engaging a boss 964 on the base module 812 and dissipating rotational energy when the milling module 814 is in use. The module retaining element 962 may be formed by one or more ribs spaced apart from each other and partially defining the gap. In this example, the module retaining element 962 includes two ribs for engaging the boss 964 on the base module 812. The module retaining element 962 is configured to engage the boss 964 and help dissipate rotational energy when using a bone milling machine (i.e., the milling module 814 is on the base module 812 and being actuated).

[0096] Functionally, the locking element 824 includes a control surface 838 located at a first end 826 of the locking element 824, and a locking portion 840 (e.g., a foot) located at a second end 828 and configured to be received within a locking recess 834 of the cover 820. A force F can be applied to the control surface 838. 1-7 The locking element 824 is moved to remove the locking portion 840 from the locking recess 834 and to move the locking element 824 from the locked position to the unlocked position to allow the cover 820 to be subsequently removed from the body 818. Figure 18 The diagram illustrates the locking element 824 in the locked position. Specifically, the locking portion 840 of the locking element 824 is received within the locking recess 834 in the cover 820, and the locking element 824 prevents the cover 820 from rotating and being removed from the body 818. Figure 19 As shown, when force F 1-7 When applied to the control surface 838, the locking element 824 moves along the longitudinal axis A within the channel 938. L-3 It moves in the second direction, and the locking portion 840 on the second end 828 of the locking element 824 is lifted away from the recessed portion in the cover 820 to allow rotational force F. 2-7 Apply to cap 820 and remove cap 820. Figure 19 The diagram shows the locking element 824 in the unlocked position. That is, when the control surface 838 is pushed F... 1-7 At this time, the locking portion 840 of the locking element 824 is not received in the locking groove 834 in the cover 820, and the cover 820 can be rotatably removed from the body 818. 2-7 .

[0097] See now Figure 21The milling module 814 includes a cover 820 defining an inner surface 948, an outer surface 950, a sidewall 952, and one or more flaps 954 projecting radially outward from the sidewall 952. The flaps 954 are positioned and sized such that when the cover 820 is positioned on the body 818 and rotated, each flap 954 rotates into a corresponding notch 956 in the body 818 to attach the cover 820 to the body 818. This example prevents the cover 820 from rotating under certain conditions, thus preventing the cover 820 from being removed from the body 818. In many examples herein, a locking element 824 is movable between a locked position where the cover 820 cannot be removed from the body 818 and an unlocked position where the cover 820 can be removed from the body 818. In the locked position, the locking element 824 prevents the cover 820 from rotating. It should be understood that the locking element 824 can be attached to: the milling module 814 as described herein; or the base module 812 as contemplated herein. In this example, force must be applied to the control surface 838 to allow the cover 820 to rotate and subsequently be removed. However, when the milling module 814 is attached to the base module 812, the control surface 838 is inaccessible and non-actuable. In the illustrated example, the control surface 838 is accessible through the control opening 946 in the base plate 902 and cannot be touched by the user unless the milling module 814 is separated from the base module 812. Once the milling module 814 is separated / removed from the base module 812, the control surface 838 becomes accessible to be actuated to the unlocked position, allowing the cover 820 to be rotatedly removed from the body 818.

[0098] The removability of the cover 20 makes access to the milling element 822 possible. During use, the milling element transforms aggregate into flakes. Naturally, the motor 813 in the base module 812 drives the milling element 822 via a drive system. Within this drive system, a drive feature releasably connects the milling element 822 to a drive spindle, which is accessible through a specific opening in the housing, partially used for this purpose. In this example, the shaft 823 transmits the rotational motion of the drive spindle to the milling element 822, causing the milling element 822 to rotate within the housing 816. See now. Figure 20 and 21The milling element 822 is adapted to be detachably attached to the housing 816. Once the milling module 814 is separated / removed from the base module 812 and the cover 820 is removed from the body 818, the milling element 822 can be removed through an opening in the body 818 previously covered by the cover 820. Once the cover 820 is removed from the body 818, the milling element 822 is removed from the housing 816. Using a suitable tool, such as a scraper, bone fragments adhering to the milling element 822 are scraped off the milling element 822 and placed into a collection tray 844 for holding bone fragments. Furthermore, bone fragments adhering to the inner surface of the body 818 of the milling module 814 can also be recovered for use if the cover 820 is removed and the milling element 822 is still in place or has been removed. Typically, during this part of the surgery, the user can recover bone fragments that would otherwise be discarded. In many examples of this disclosure, the shaft is dual-function. In addition to serving as a transmission link, the shaft also functions as a handle held when retrieving bone fragments adhered to milling elements. (Reference) Figure 20 Once the cover 820 is removed from the body 818, force F3 is applied to the first end of the shaft, pushing the shaft 823, the milling element 822, and the pin holding the milling element to the shaft 823, thus pushing out the drive sleeve. Figure 21 In the diagram, the milling element 822, the shaft 823, and the pin holding the milling element 822 to the shaft 823 are shown as being removed from the body 818 of the milling module 814. After removal, the user can use the shaft 823 as a handle to remove residual aggregate from the surface of the milling element 822.

[0099] In this example, at least one of the housing 816, body 818, and cover 820 is partially or completely transparent. The transparent element allows the user to observe the milling process while using system 10, and also to observe any residual aggregate that may be contained in the milling module 14 when the milling process is complete. For example, if residual aggregate is visible through the housing 816, body 818, and cover 820, the user can observe whether the aggregate has been completely milled and / or decide whether to remove the milling element 822 after milling.

[0100] Alternative examples of milling module 814, with or without locking element 824, are configured for use with base module 812, which includes motor 813, controller, and support surface including alignment teeth 922 and sensors. In this example, milling module 814 includes a housing 816, body 818, and milling element 822 adapted for detachable attachment to base module 812. Housing 816 includes alignment guide 920 shaped to receive alignment teeth 922 on base module 812, and alignment guide 920 configured to align milling module 814 with base module 812 and facilitate effective and proper attachment of milling module 814 to base module 812. Body 818 has magnet 924 mounted thereon. In a typical example, magnet 924 is mounted to bottom surface 906 of base plate 902. When the milling module 814 is attached to the base module 812, the magnet 924 can be detected by the sensor 890. The sensor 890 is positioned on the base module 812 to monitor the presence of the magnet 924 and generate a sensor signal for a controller configured to adjust the motor 813 based on the presence of the magnet 924. Of course, in this example, the housing 816 may also include a cover 820 shaped to be removably attached to the body 818, and locking elements (as described in many of the examples above). For example, the locking element 824 may define a longitudinal axis and have a control surface 838 at a first end 826 and a locking portion 840 at a second end 828. When the housing 816 is removably attached to the base module 812, the locking element 824 may be positioned to engage the cover 820. The locking element 824 is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position, the locking element 824 is positioned relative to the cover 820 to allow the cover 820 to be removed from the body 818. In the locked position, the locking element 824 is positioned relative to the cover 820 to prevent the cover 820 from being removed from the body 818, as described above. When the locking element 824 is in the locked position, it prevents the cover 820 from rotating and subsequently being removed from the body 818.

[0101] Of course, in this example, the locking element 824 can be as described above, with the cover 820 defining a locking recess 834 and the locking element 824 movable between: an unlocked position, wherein the locking portion 840 is not received within the locking recess 834 in the cover to allow the cover 820 to be removed from the body 818; and a locked position, wherein the locking portion 840 is received within the locking recess 834 in the cover 820 and the locking element 824 prevents the cover 820 from being removed from the body 818. For example, the milling module 814 may include a foot configured to be received within the locking recess 834 in the cover 820. When force is applied to the control surface 838, it removes the foot from the locking recess 834 to allow the cover 820 to rotate and be removed from the body 818.

[0102] refer to Figure 13-21 A modular system 810 for converting aggregate into bone chips includes a base module 812 containing a motor 813 and a milling module 814. The milling module 814 includes a housing 816 adapted to be detachably attached to the base module 812. The housing includes a body 818, milling elements 822 movably arranged within the housing, and a cover 820 shaped to be detachably attached to the body 818.

[0103] The system also includes a locking element 824, which includes a control surface 838 and a locking portion 840. The locking element 824 is movable between a locked position where the cover 820 cannot be removed and an unlocked position where the cover 820 can be removed. It should be understood that the locking element 824 can be attached to: a milling module 814 as described herein; or a base module 812 as envisioned herein. The locking element 824 can be a separate element independent of the base module 812 and the milling module 814. When the milling module 814 is attached to the base module 812, the control surface 838 is inaccessible and inoperable, and the locking element 824 is in the locked position. When the milling module 814 is not attached to the base module 812, the control surface 838 is accessible and actuable.

[0104] In a typical example of the modular system 810, the locking element 824 in the locked position prevents the cover 820 from rotating and subsequently being removed from the body 818. As described above, the cover 820 generally defines a locking recess 834 and the locking element 824 is movable between: an unlocked position, wherein the locking portion 840 is not received within the locking recess 834 in the cover 820 to allow the cover 820 to be removed from the body 818; and a locked position, wherein the locking portion 840 is received within the locking recess 834 in the cover 820 and the locking element 824 prevents the cover 820 from being removed from the body 818.

[0105] The locking portion 840 can be shaped and configured in various ways, some of which are described herein, such as... Figure 13-21 In the example, the locking portion 840 includes a foot configured to be received within a locking recess 834 in the cover 820. When force is applied to the control surface, the foot is removed from the locking recess 834 to allow the cover 820 to rotate and be removed from the body 818.

[0106] From a system perspective, the aforementioned features that may be included on the base module 812 and the milling module 814 are alignment teeth 922 on the base module 812 and corresponding alignment guides 920 on the milling module 814. The alignment guides 920 are shaped to receive the alignment teeth 922 and are configured to align the milling module 814 with the base module 812 and assist in effectively and correctly attaching the milling module 814 to the base module 812, for example, ensuring that a plurality of openings 958 on the outer wall 910 of the base plate 902 receive corresponding flaps 960 on the base module 812. Another feature that may be included on the base module 812 and the milling module 814 is a magnet 924 mounted to the milling module 814. From a system perspective, the base module 812 has a sensor 890 configured to detect the magnet 924 and indicate when the milling module 814 is attached to the base module 812.

[0107] In an alternative example, the modular system for converting aggregate into bone flakes utilizes a base module 812 including a motor 813 and a milling module 814. The milling module 814 includes a housing 816 adapted for detachable attachment to the base module 812. The housing 816 includes a body 818, a milling element 822 for converting aggregate into bone flakes movably disposed within the housing 816, and a cover 820 shaped to be detachably attached to the body 818. In this example, the modular system 810 includes a locking element 824; however, it should be understood that the locking element 824 may be attached to the milling module 814 or the base module 812 as described herein, or may be included as a separate element independent of the base module 812 and the milling module 814. Of course, as described above, the locking element 824 can move between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position, the locking element 824 is positioned relative to the cover 820 to allow the cover 820 to be removed from the body 818. In the locked position, the locking element 824 is positioned relative to the cover 820 to prevent the cover 820 from being removed from the body 818.

[0108] Now for reference Figure 22 ,and Figure 13-22 Examples are related, but not limited to Figure 13-22 Another example of the method 1000 includes the following steps: actuating a milling element to convert aggregate into bone fragments 1002 while the milling module is attached to the base module; separating the milling module from the base module to make access to a control surface 1004 on a locking element; applying force to the control surface to move the locking element to an unlocked position to allow removal of a cover 1006 from the body after the milling module is separated from the base module; and removing the cover 1008 from the body of the housing of the milling module.

[0109] In method 1000, the step of attaching the milling module to the base module is performed with the cover attached to the milling module and the locking element of the milling module in the locked position. Once the milling module is attached, the cover and collection tray are inspected to ensure they are correctly attached and in place. Once the cover and collection tray are correctly installed in place, the system of this disclosure is ready for use. Of course, this method may also include the step of providing the milling module, which may be provided as disposable or even recyclable.

[0110] In this example, the system and / or milling module includes an active locking configuration because the milling module must first separate from the base module, and then a force must be applied to the locking element (e.g., a locking shaft) to move the locking element to the unlocked position to allow removal of the cover from the body. To this end, the step of moving the locking element to the unlocked position to allow removal of the cover from the body further includes applying a force to the locking element after the step of removing the milling module from the base module to disengage the locking element from the cover (e.g., ...). Figure 20 (As shown). The step of applying force to the control surface to move the locking element to the unlocked position is usually performed simultaneously with the step of rotating the cover.

[0111] After removing the cover from the body of the milling module housing, method 1000 may further include the step of collecting residual bone fragments from the inner surface of the body and the milling element. Additionally, method 1000 may further include the step of removing the milling element from the milling module and collecting residual bone material and / or bone fragments from its surface. Figure 21 This illustration shows the milling components removed from the milling module.

[0112] Of course, the modular system 810 and method 1000 of this disclosure provide a way of using bone fragments that are inaccessible and unusable during formation. This feature also reduces the overall size of the bone material that practitioners need to collect from the patient in order to provide the necessary volume of bone fragments for surgery. This reduction in the volume of collected bone material is used to similarly reduce the trauma suffered by the patient due to the need to collect bone fragments.

[0113] Additional Disclosure Terms:

[0114] I. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes, the milling module comprising: a housing adapted for releasable attachment to a base module including a motor, the housing defining an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the housing and an outlet opening through which bone flakes are discharged from the housing, the housing further comprising: a body; a milling element for converting aggregate into bone flakes movably disposed within the housing; a cover formed to be removably attached to the body to allow removal of residual bone flakes from the milling element; and a locking element movably mounted to the body and configured to engage the base module and the cover when the housing is releasably attached to the base module, the locking element being movable between: an unattached position, wherein the locking element disengages from the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the body; and an attached position, wherein the locking element engages with the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body. II. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause I, wherein the locking element includes a locking shaft movably mounted to the body and coupled to a biasing element. III. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause II, wherein a biasing element is configured to push a locking shaft in a first direction such that the locking shaft is biased in the first direction in an unattached position and pushed in a second direction along the longitudinal axis of the pin in an attached position. IV. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause II or III, wherein a biasing element is arranged around the outer circumference of the locking shaft. V. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein a body defines a chamber in which a locking element is movably arranged. VI. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in any of Clauses II-V, wherein a cover defines a locking recess and the locking shaft is movable between: an unattached position, wherein the locking shaft is not received in the locking recess in the cover, and the cover can be removed from the body; and an attached position, wherein the locking shaft is received in the locking recess in the cover and the locking shaft prevents the cover from being removed from the body. VII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the cover includes a base defining an inner surface, an outer surface, sidewalls, and one or more flaps projecting radially outward from the sidewalls, wherein the one or more flaps are positioned and sized such that when the base is positioned on the body and rotated, each of the flaps rotates into a corresponding recess in the body to attach the cover to the body. VIII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in clause VII, wherein a locking element in the attached position prevents the cover from rotating and subsequently being removed from the body. IX. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in clause VIII, wherein the base includes flaps and the flaps define locking recesses. X. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the milling element is adapted to be releasably attached to the housing.XI. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a collection tray detachably mounted to a housing adjacent to an outlet opening to receive bone chips discharged therethrough, wherein the collection tray must be mounted to the housing to actuate the milling element. XII. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the housing, body, and cover is transparent. XIII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips, the system comprising: a base module including a motor and an abutment element; and a milling module comprising: a housing adapted for releasable attachment to the base, the housing defining an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the housing and an outlet opening through which bone chips are discharged from the housing, the housing further comprising: a body; a milling element for converting aggregate into bone chips movably disposed within the housing; a cover formed to be detachably secured to the body; and a locking element movably mounted to the body and Configured to engage the base and cover when the housing is releasably attached to the base, the locking element is movable between: an unattached position, wherein the locking element disengages from the cover and base, allowing the cover to be removed from the body; and an attached position, wherein the locking element engages with the base and cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body, wherein the locking element is in the unattached position and the cover can be removed from the body when the milling module is not attached to the base module, and wherein the locking element is in the attached position and the cover is locked in place and cannot be removed from the body when the milling module is attached to the base module. XIV. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in Clause XIII, wherein the locking element includes a locking shaft movably mounted to the body and coupled to a biasing element thereon. XV. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in Clause XIV, wherein the biasing element is disposed around the outer circumference of the locking shaft. XVI. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause XIV or XV, wherein the cap defines a locking recess and the locking shaft is movable between: an unattached position, wherein the locking shaft is not received in the locking recess in the cap and the cap can be removed from the body; and an attached position, wherein the locking shaft is engaged by an abutment element on the base and received in the locking recess to prevent the cap from being removed from the body. XVII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause XIII, wherein the cap includes a base defining an inner surface, an outer surface, sidewalls, and one or more flaps projecting radially outward from the sidewalls, wherein the one or more flaps are positioned and sized such that when the base is positioned on the body and rotated, each of the flaps rotates into a corresponding recess in the body to become integral with the recess and attach the cap to the body.XVIII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause XVII, wherein the base includes a locking recess for receiving a locking element, wherein when the locking shaft is in the attached position, the locking shaft is received in the locking recess and the cover cannot be rotated or removed from the body. XIX. A method for converting aggregate into bone flakes using a modular system comprising a base module having a motor and an abutment element, and a milling module including a housing adapted to be releasably attached to the base module and defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, the housing including a body, a milling element, a cover shaped to be releasably attached to the body, and a locking element movably mounted to the body and configured to engage the base and the cover when the cover is releasably attached to the base, the method comprising the steps of: providing a milling module with the cover attached and a cover in an unattached position. A locking element at an attachment position, wherein the locking element disengages from the cover and base, allowing the cover to be removed from the body; a milling module is attached to a base module, wherein an abutment element engages the locking element, thereby forcing the locking element to move along a longitudinal axis defined by the locking element and engage with the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body; aggregate is introduced into the housing through an inlet opening; actuation of the milling element to convert the aggregate into bone fragments and discharge the bone fragments through an outlet opening; removal of the milling module from the base module, causing the locking element to disengage from the cover; and removal of the cover from the body of the housing of the milling module. XX. The method of converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in Clause XIX further includes the step of collecting residual bone fragments from the internal surface of the body and the milling element once the cover is removed from the body. XXI. The method of converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in Clause XX further includes the step of: removing the milling element and collecting residual aggregate and / or bone fragments that can be peeled off from its surface. XXII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips, the system comprising: a base module including a motor; and a milling module including: a housing adapted to be releasably attached to the base module including the motor, the housing defining an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the housing and an outlet opening through which bone chips are discharged from the housing, the housing further comprising: a body; milling elements for converting aggregate into bone chips movably disposed within the housing; and a cover formed to be removably attached to the body; wherein the system is configured such that the motor does not power the milling elements when the cover is removed from the body. XXIII. The modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause XXII, further comprising a locking element movably mounted to the body and configured to engage the base and the cover when the housing is releasably attached to the base, the locking element being movable between: an unattached position, wherein the locking element is disengaged from the cover and the base, allowing the cover to be removed from the body; and an attached position, wherein the locking element is engaged by the base and the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body.XXIV. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes, the milling module comprising: a housing adapted to be detachably attached to a base module including a motor, the housing defining an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the housing and an outlet opening through which bone flakes are discharged from the housing, the housing further comprising: a body; a milling element for converting aggregate into bone flakes movably disposed in the housing; a cover formed to be detachably attached to the body to allow removal of residual bone flakes from the milling element; and a locking element movably mounted to the body and configured to engage the cover when the housing is detachably attached to the base module, the locking element being movable between: an unlocked position, wherein the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the body; and a locked position, wherein the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body. XXV. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in clause XXIV, wherein the locking element is movably mounted to the body and coupled to a biasing element. XXVI. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone pieces as described in Clause XXV, wherein the locking element is a locking shaft having a first end and a second end and defining a longitudinal axis. XXVII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone pieces as described in Clause XXVI, wherein the biasing element is configured to push the locking element in a first direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element. XXVIII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone pieces as described in Clause XXVI, wherein the biasing element is configured to push the locking element in a second direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element. XXIX. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone pieces as described in Clause XXVI, wherein the locking element includes a biasing surface that cooperates with the biasing element and the body to bias the locking element in a first or second direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element, the second direction being opposite to the first direction. XXX. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone pieces as described in Clause XXIX, wherein the biasing surface is disposed at the first end of the locking element. XXXI. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause XXIX or XXX, wherein the biasing element is arranged adjacent to the locking element. XXXII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause XXIX or XXX, wherein the biasing element is arranged around the outer circumference of the locking element. XXXIII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause XXV, wherein the body defines a chamber, and the locking element and the biasing element are movably arranged within the chamber.XXXIV. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause XXVI, wherein the cover defines a locking recess, and the locking shaft is movable between: an unlocked position, wherein the locking shaft is not received within the locking recess in the cover to allow removal of the cover from the body; and a locked position, wherein the locking shaft is received within the locking recess in the cover and the locking shaft prevents removal of the cover from the body. XXXV. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause XXXIV, wherein a chamber is defined by a locking sleeve, and the locking shaft and the biasing element are disposed within the locking sleeve, wherein the biasing element is configured to longitudinally push a first end of the locking element through a first end of the locking sleeve. XXXVI. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause XXIV, wherein the housing defines a lower plane opposite the cover, and the biasing element is configured to longitudinally push a first end of the locking element through the lower plane of the housing. XXXVII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause XXXIV, wherein when the milling module is not attached to the base module, the biasing element is configured to push the locking shaft into the unlocked position to allow removal of the cover from the body, and when attached to the base module, the locking shaft is forced into the locked position to prevent removal of the cover from the body. XXXVIII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause XXXIV, wherein the locking shaft includes a flap, wherein a force applied to the flap disengages the locking shaft from the locking recess. XXXIX. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause XXXIV, wherein the locking shaft includes a flap at a first end and a foot at a second end configured to be received within the locking recess in the cover, wherein a force applied to the flap disengages the foot from the locking recess and moves the locking shaft from the locked position to the unlocked position to allow subsequent removal of the cover from the body. XL. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause XXXIV, wherein the locking shaft includes a flap at a first end and a foot at a second end configured to be received within a locking recess in the cover, wherein a force applied to the flap disengages the foot from the locking recess and moves the locking shaft from the locked position to the unlocked position to allow subsequent removal of the cover from the body. XLI. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause XXIV, wherein the locking element includes a locking arm having a second end and a first end and is pivotally mounted to the body.XLVII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause XLI, wherein the cover defines a locking recess, and the locking arm includes a foot located at a second end configured to be received by the locking recess in the cover, a mounting element, and an optional biasing element. XLIII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause XLII, wherein the locking arm is biased to a locked position and a force is applied to the first end of the locking arm to pivot the locking arm from the locked position to the unlocked position to allow removal of the cover from the body. XLIV. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause XLIII, wherein the base module includes an abutment element that, when the milling module is attached to the base module, prevents the locking arm from pivoting to the unlocked position and subsequently removing the cover from the body. XLV. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause XLIV, wherein the first end of the locking arm includes a flap. XLVI. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the cover defines an inner surface, an outer surface, sidewalls, and one or more flaps projecting radially outward from the sidewalls, wherein the one or more flaps are positioned and sized such that when the cover is positioned on the body and rotated, each of the flaps rotates into a corresponding notch in the body to attach the cover to the body. XLVII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in clause XLVI, wherein the locking element in the locked position prevents the cover from rotating to prevent the cover from being removed from the body. XLVIII. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the milling element is adapted to be removably attached to the housing.XLIX. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a blade holder located inside the body of the housing and removably attached to the body of the housing, the blade holder comprising: an upper tray including a circularly shaped upper surface for holding the milling element in the body, sidewalls positioned around the outer circumference of the upper surface and having one or more flaps projecting radially outward therefrom; and a central sleeve concentric with the center of the upper tray and extending downward therefrom; wherein the one or more flaps projecting radially outward from the sidewalls are shaped to allow each of the one or more flaps to... Each of the one or more blades engages with a corresponding recess in the body; and wherein rotation of the central sleeve in a first direction rotatably engages each of the one or more blades in each of the corresponding recesses in the body to hold the milling element in the milling module, and rotation of the central sleeve in a second direction opposite to the first direction rotatably disengages each of the one or more blades from each of the corresponding recesses in the body to allow subsequent removal of the blade holder and the milling element from the body, thereby facilitating easy access to any residual bone fragments that may be disposed on the upper surface of the upper tray and on the milling element. L. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the housing, the body, and the cover is transparent. L1. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips, the system comprising: a base module including a motor; and a milling module including: a housing adapted for removable attachment to the base module, the housing defining an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the housing and an outlet opening through which bone chips are discharged from the housing, the housing further comprising: a body; milling elements for converting aggregate into bone chips movably disposed within the housing; a cover shaped to be removably attached to the body; and a locking element movably mounted to the body and positioned to engage the cover when the housing is removably attached to the base module, the locking element being movable between: an unlocked position, wherein the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the body; and a locked position, wherein the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body, wherein the locking element is in the unlocked position to allow the cover to be removed from the body when the milling module is not attached to the base module, and wherein the locking element is in the locked position and prevents the cover from being removed from the body when the milling module is attached to the base module. LII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in Clause LI, wherein a locking element is movably mounted to the body and coupled to a biasing element. LIII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in Clause LII, wherein the locking element is a locking shaft having a first end and a second end and defining a longitudinal axis.LIV. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LIII, wherein a biasing element is configured to push the locking shaft in a first direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking shaft. LV. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LIII, wherein a biasing element is configured to push the locking shaft in a second direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking shaft. LVI. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LIII, wherein a body defines a chamber, and the locking shaft and biasing element are disposed within the chamber. LVII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LVI, wherein the body includes a sleeve defining a chamber, and the locking element and biasing element are movably arranged within the sleeve. LXIII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LIII, wherein a cover defines a locking recess, and the locking shaft is movable between: an unlocked position, wherein the locking shaft is not received within the locking recess in the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the body; and a locked position, wherein the locking shaft is received within the locking recess in the cover and the locking shaft prevents the cover from being removed from the body. LIX. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LVIII, wherein the cover includes locking flaps and the locking flaps define locking recesses. LX. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clauses LVII or LVIII, wherein a chamber is defined by a locking sleeve and a locking element is disposed within the locking sleeve, wherein a biasing element is configured to longitudinally push a first end of a locking shaft through a first end of the locking sleeve. LXI. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LX, wherein a base module is shaped such that when a milling module is attached to the base module, a first end of the locking element engages with the base module to force the locking shaft into the locking recess and into a locked position. LXII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LI, wherein the locking element includes flaps, and when the milling module is not attached to the base module, a force applied to the flaps moves the locking element to an unlocked position. LXIII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone pieces as described in Clause LVIII, wherein when the milling module is not attached to the base module, a biasing element is configured to push a locking shaft into an unlocked position to allow the cover to be removed from the body, and wherein when the cover is attached to the base module, the base module is shaped to force the locking shaft into a locked position to prevent the cover from being removed from the body. LXIV. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone pieces as described in Clause LVIII, wherein the locking shaft includes a flap at a first end and a foot at a second end configured to be received in a locking recess in the cover, wherein when the milling module is not attached to the base module, a force applied to the flap removes the foot from the locking recess and moves the locking shaft from a locked position to an unlocked position to allow subsequent removal of the cover from the body.LXV. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LVIII, wherein the locking shaft includes a flap at a first end of the locking shaft and a foot at a second end of the locking shaft configured to be received in a locking recess in a cover, wherein when the milling module is not attached to the base module, a force applied to the flap removes the foot from the locking recess and moves the locking shaft from a locked position to an unlocked position to allow subsequent removal of the cover from the body. LXVI. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LI, wherein the locking element includes a locking arm having a first end and a second end and is pivotally mounted to the body. LXVII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LXVI, wherein the locking arm includes a foot configured to be received by a locking recess in a cover, a mounting element, and an optional biasing element. LXVIII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone pieces as described in Clause LXVII, wherein a locking arm is biased to a locked position and a force is applied to a first end of the locking arm to pivot the locking arm from the locked position to an unlocked position to allow the cover to be removed from the body. LXIX. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone pieces as described in Clause LXVIII, wherein a base module includes an abutment element and a first end of the locking arm abuts the abutment element, which prevents the locking arm from pivoting to the unlocked position and subsequently removing the cover from the body when the milling module is attached to the base module. LXX. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone pieces as described in Clause LI, wherein the cover defines an inner surface, an outer surface, sidewalls, and one or more flaps projecting radially outward from the sidewalls, wherein the one or more flaps are positioned and sized such that when the cover is positioned on the body and rotated, each of the flaps rotates into a corresponding recess in the body to become integral with the recess and bring the cover proximate to the body. LXXI. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips as described in Clause LXX, wherein the cover includes a locking recess for receiving a locking element, wherein when the locking element is in the locked position, the locking element is received in the locking recess to prevent the cover from being removed from the body.LXXII. A method for converting aggregate into bone flakes using a modular system, the modular system comprising a base module having a motor and a milling module including a housing adapted to be removably attached to the base module and defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, the housing including a body, a milling element, a cover shaped to be removably attached to the body, and a locking element movably mounted to the body and configured to engage the cover when the housing is removably attached to the base module, the method comprising the steps of: attaching the milling module to the base module, wherein before, during, or after the step of attaching the milling module to the base module, the cover is attached to the milling module and the locking element of the milling module is moved to a locked position relative to the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body; introducing aggregate into the housing through the inlet opening; actuating the milling element to convert the aggregate into bone flakes and discharging the bone flakes through the outlet opening; removing the milling module from the base module; moving the locking element to an unlocked position to allow the cover to be removed from the body; and removing the cover from the body of the housing of the milling module. LXXIII. A method for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause LXXII, wherein the step of attaching the milling module to the base module is performed with the cover attached to the milling module and the locking element of the milling module in the locked position. LXXIV. A method for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clauses LXXII or LXXIII, wherein the step of moving the locking element to the unlocked position includes applying force to the locking element after the step of removing the milling module from the base module. LXXV. A method for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause LXXII, wherein the step of attaching the milling module to the base module is performed with the cover attached to the milling module, and wherein the step of attaching the milling module to the base module forces the locking element into the locked position to simultaneously move the locking element to the locked position. LXXVI. A method for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in Clause LXXII, further comprising the step of collecting residual bone flakes from the internal surface of the body and the milling element once the cover is removed from the body. LXXVII. The method of converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in Clause LXXII further includes the step of removing the milling element from the milling module and collecting residual aggregate and / or bone fragments from its surface.

[0115] The foregoing describes one particular form of this disclosure. Alternative forms of this disclosure may have different features than those described.

[0116] For example, it is not required that all forms of this disclosure include detection components and sensor systems for determining whether the cover 20 and the collection tray 44 are properly attached to the body 18 of the housing 16. Similarly, some forms of this disclosure may not include the collection tray 44.

[0117] The features of this disclosure may also differ from those already described. Therefore, it is not required that the milling element for converting aggregate into bone sheets be a disk in all forms of this disclosure. In some forms of this disclosure, the element may be an insert.

[0118] Similarly, in some forms of this disclosure where sensors monitor whether the cover 20 and / or the collection tray 44 are correctly attached to the milling module 14, the sensors may not always be those monitoring the presence / absence of a magnetic field. In some forms of this disclosure, the sensor may be an optical sensor that signals based on whether light of a specific wavelength is received. In these forms of this disclosure, the marking integrated with the cover 20 may be a reflector. The detection element integrated with the collection tray 44 may be an optical fiber with a filter that allows light of the monitored wavelength to pass through. In other forms of this disclosure, the sensor may be a mechanical switch. In these forms of this disclosure, the detection element may be a static or moving mechanical component integrated with the cover 20 and the collection tray 44. As a result of the alignment or engagement of these components, the switches are actuated. Changes in the signal state across the switches are interpreted by the controller as an indication that the cover 20 and the collection tray 44 are correctly attached to the milling module 14.

[0119] In this form of the disclosure without the collection tray 44, the detection components can be associated with the housing 16. In this form of the disclosure, the sensor outputs a signal indicating that these components are correctly attached to the base module 12 only when the housing 16 of the system 10 is correctly attached to the base module 12 and the cover 20 is correctly attached to the housing 16 of the system 10. Only when this signal is received does the controller allow the motor integrated with the base module 12 to be actuated.

[0120] The system 10 of this disclosure is designed to reduce material blocks. That is, the system 10 is designed to convert a quantity of large blocks of material into a large quantity of smaller blocks. The system 10 can be configured to reduce hard or soft materials, and it can be configured to produce smaller blocks of material of a specific size. For example, using different milling elements, the system 10 of this disclosure can be used to cut soft tissue into a form that can be used in surgery, or to convert bone material into bone particles (rather than bone fragments). Furthermore, while the focus of this disclosure is on reducing bone material to bone fragments, the system 10 can have other uses. Moreover, the system 10 can have applications beyond surgery.

[0121] Therefore, the purpose of the appended claims is to cover all such variations and modifications that fall within the true substance and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes, the milling module comprising: A housing adapted for detachable attachment to a base module including a motor, the housing defining an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the housing, the housing further comprising: ontology; A milling element for converting aggregate into bone flakes is movably arranged within the housing; A cover, shaped to be detachably attached to the body, to allow removal of residual bone fragments from the milling element; and Locking elements that can move between the following positions: Unlock position, wherein the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the body; and Locking position, wherein the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body. The locking element includes a control surface; applying force to the control surface moves the locking element to an unlocked position that allows the cover to be removed from the body. When the milling module is attached to the base module, the control surface is inaccessible and cannot be actuated, and the locking element is in the locked position.

2. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 1, wherein, The locking element defines a longitudinal axis and includes a control surface at a first end and a locking portion at a second end.

3. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 2, wherein, The locking element is movably mounted to the body and connected to the biasing element.

4. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 1, wherein, The body defines a channel and the locking element is arranged at least partially within the channel.

5. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 3, wherein, The locking element includes a biasing surface that cooperates with the biasing element and the body to bias the locking element in a first or second direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element.

6. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 5, wherein, The biasing surface is disposed at the first end of the locking element.

7. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 3, 5, and 6, wherein, The biasing element is arranged around the outer circumference of the locking element.

8. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 3, 5, and 6, wherein, The biasing element is arranged adjacent to the locking element.

9. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The body defines a chamber and the locking element is movably arranged within the chamber.

10. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The body also includes an actuation guide, and the locking element is at least partially disposed in the actuation guide.

11. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 2, wherein, The cover defines a locking recess, and the locking element is movable between the following positions: The unlocking position, wherein the locking portion is not received within the locking recess in the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the body; and The locking position, wherein the locking portion is received within the locking recess in the cover and the locking element prevents the cover from being removed from the body.

12. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 11, wherein, The locking portion includes a foot configured to be received within the locking recess in the cover.

13. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 12, wherein, The force applied to the control surface removes the foot from the locking recess, allowing the cover to rotate and be removed from the body.

14. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 13, wherein, The locking element defines a bias surface opposite to the control surface.

15. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 14, wherein, The bias surface includes a bias element mounting member adjacent to the locking element.

16. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 15, wherein, The biasing element is arranged around the biasing element mounting and abuts against the inner surface of the body, thereby biasing the locking element toward the base module in a first direction along the longitudinal axis.

17. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The housing further includes a base plate having a top surface, a bottom surface, and an outer wall.

18. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as claimed in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The body defines a channel extending between a locking opening and a control opening, wherein the locking element is at least partially arranged within the channel.

19. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The body includes a base plate that defines a control opening.

20. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 17, wherein, The body defines a collection tray opening, and the top surface of the base plate defines a recess having a bottom plate, the opening and the recess being configured to receive the collection tray.

21. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 20, wherein, The base plate defines a first retaining element configured to engage a corresponding retaining element on the collection tray to bias the collection tray toward the recessed rear wall, thereby mounting the collection tray to the housing.

22. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 21, wherein, The first holding element is a cut-out holding wing, and the corresponding holding element is a notch on the collection tray.

23. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as claimed in claim 19, further comprising a magnet mounted on the base plate, the magnet being detectable by a sensor in the base module to indicate that the milling module is attached to the base module.

24. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The body defines an alignment guide, which is shaped to receive alignment teeth on the base module. The alignment guide is configured to align the milling module with the base module and facilitate efficient and accurate attachment of the milling module to the base module.

25. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The lid defines an inner surface, an outer surface, sidewalls, and one or more flaps projecting radially outward from the sidewalls, wherein the one or more flaps are positioned and sized such that when the lid is positioned on the body and rotated, each of the flaps rotates into a corresponding notch in the body to attach the lid to the body.

26. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 25, wherein, The locking element, in the locked position, prevents the lid from rotating to prevent the lid from being removed from the body.

27. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The cover defines an inlet opening and includes a feed sleeve arranged around the inlet opening, the feed sleeve having an inner surface and an outer surface and being sized to slidably receive a plunger.

28. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 27, wherein, The feed sleeve includes a second retaining element configured to engage a corresponding retaining element on the plunger to bias the plunger toward the inlet opening and mount the plunger to the cover.

29. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in claim 28, wherein, The second retaining element is a notch, and the corresponding retaining element is a cut-out retaining wing on the plunger.

30. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The milling element is adapted to be detachably attached to the housing.

31. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The body also includes an actuation guide, and the locking element is at least partially disposed in the actuation guide.

32. The milling module for converting aggregate into bone flakes as described in any one of claims 2-6, wherein, At least one of the outer shell, the body, and the lid is transparent.

33. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips, the system comprising: Includes the base module for the motor; The milling module includes: A housing adapted for detachable attachment to a base module, the housing further comprising: ontology; A milling element for converting aggregate into bone flakes is movably disposed within a housing; The lid, which is shaped for removable attachment to the body; and A locking element having a control surface and a locking portion, the locking element being movable between a locked position where the lid cannot be removed and an unlocked position where the lid can be removed, and applying force to the control surface moving the locking element to an unlocked position that allows the lid to be removed from the body. When the milling module is attached to the base module, the control surface is inaccessible and cannot be actuated, and the locking element is in the locked position. When the milling module is not attached to the base module, the control surface is accessible and actuable.

34. The modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in claim 33, wherein, The locking element in the locked position prevents the lid from rotating and prevents the lid from being removed from the body.

35. The modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in claim 33, wherein, The cover defines a locking recess, and the locking element is movable between the following positions: Unlock position, in which the locking portion is not received in the locking recess in the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the body; and The locking position is such that the locking part is received in the locking groove in the lid and the locking element prevents the lid from being removed from the body.

36. The modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in claim 35, wherein, The locking portion includes a foot configured to be received within a locking recess in the lid.

37. The modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in claim 36, wherein, The force applied to the control surface removes the foot from the locking groove, allowing the cover to rotate and be removed from the body.

38. The modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as claimed in any one of claims 33-37, wherein, The base module includes alignment teeth, and the housing of the milling module defines an alignment guide shaped to receive the alignment teeth and configured to align the milling module with the base module and facilitate effective and proper attachment of the milling module to the base module.

39. The modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as claimed in any one of claims 33-37, wherein, The housing of the milling module has a magnet mounted thereon, and the base module has a sensor configured to detect the magnet and indicate when the milling module is attached to the base module.

40. A method for converting aggregate into bone chips using a modular system, the modular system comprising a base module having a motor and a milling module adapted for detachable attachment to the base module and including a housing, the housing including a body, milling elements, a cover shaped to be detachably attached to the body, and a locking element having a control surface and a locking portion and configured to engage the cover, the method comprising the steps of: While the milling module is attached to the base module, the milling element is actuated to convert the aggregate into bone pieces. The step of attaching the milling module to the base module is performed while the cover is attached to the milling module and the locking element of the milling module is in the locked position. The control surface is inaccessible and cannot be actuated before the milling module is separated from the base module. Separate the milling module from the base module to allow access to the control surfaces on the locking element; Apply force to the control surface to move the locking element to the unlocked position, allowing the cover to be removed from the body after the milling module has separated from the base module; and Remove the cover from the main body of the milling module's housing.

41. The method for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in claim 40, wherein, The step of applying force to the control surface to move the locking element to the unlocked position is performed simultaneously with the step of rotating the cover.

42. The method of converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in claim 40, further comprising the step of collecting residual bone fragments from the internal surface of the body and the milling elements once the cover is removed from the body.

43. The method of converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in claim 40, further comprising the steps of removing milling elements from the milling module and collecting residual aggregate and / or bone fragments from their surface.

44. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone chips, the system comprising: Includes the base module for the motor; The milling module includes: A housing adapted for detachable attachment to a base module, the housing further comprising: ontology; Milling elements for converting aggregate into bone flakes are movably arranged within a housing; and The lid, which is shaped to be detachably attached to the body; and Locking elements that can move between the following positions: Unlock position, wherein the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the body; and A locking position, wherein the locking element is positioned relative to the cover to prevent the cover from being removed from the body. The locking element has a control surface; applying force to the control surface moves the locking element to an unlocked position that allows the cover to be removed from the body. When the milling module is attached to the base module, the control surface is inaccessible and cannot be actuated, and the locking element is in the locked position.

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