Surgical stapler end effector sled with cartridge biasing features

Abstract

A staple driver actuator for a staple cartridge of a surgical stapler includes a base having at least one bottom surface. The bottom surface defines a plane, and the base defines a longitudinal centerline. The base is configured to longitudinally slide relative to the staple cartridge. The staple driver actuator further includes at least one biasing member. The biasing member is positioned laterally outward relative to the longitudinal centerline of the base. The biasing member is configured to exert a biasing force on a portion of the staple cartridge in a direction toward the longitudinal centerline of the base.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Examples of surgical instruments include surgical staplers, which can be configured to be used in laparoscopic and / or open surgery. Some of these staplers are operable to clamp tissue layers, cut through the clamped tissue layers, and drive staples through the tissue layers to substantially seal the cut tissue layers together near the cut ends. Examples of surgical suture devices are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,404,508, entitled "Surgical Stapling and Cutting Device," published July 29, 2008; U.S. Patent No. 7,434,715, entitled "Surgical Stapling Instrument Having Multistroke Firing with Opening Lockout," published October 14, 2008; U.S. Patent No. 7,721,930, entitled "Disposable Cartridge with Adhesive for Use with a Stapling Device," published May 25, 2010; U.S. Patent No. 8,408,439, entitled "Surgical Stapling Instrument with An Articulatable End Effector," published April 2, 2013; and U.S. Patent No. 8,453,914, entitled "Motor-Driven Surgical Cutting Instrument with Electric Actuator Directional Control Assembly," published June 4, 2013. The disclosure of each of the above-cited U.S. patents is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Although various surgical suturing instruments and associated components have been manufactured and used, it is believed that no one had manufactured or used the invention described in the appended claims prior to the inventors. Attached Figure Description

[0003] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0004] Figure 1 A perspective view showing an example of an articular movement surgical suture instrument;

[0005] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A side view of the instrument;

[0006] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the open end effector in the instrument;

[0007] Figure 4A It shows Figure 3 end effector along Figure 3 The side section view taken from line 4-4, with the firing beam in a near-side position;

[0008] Figure 4B It shows Figure 3 end effector along Figure 3 The side section view taken from line 4-4, with the firing beam in the far side position;

[0009] Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 end effector along Figure 3 The end cross-sectional view taken from line 5-5;

[0010] Figure 6 It shows Figure 3 Exploded perspective view of the end effector;

[0011] Figure 7 It shows Figure 3 A perspective view of an end effector located at the tissue and already actuated once within the tissue;

[0012] Figure 8 It shows the actuation Figure 1 A perspective view of an example wedge-shaped slider of a nail driver for an instrument, showing a wedge-shaped slider with a bin wall support feature and multiple surface finishes;

[0013] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 Side view of the wedge-shaped slider;

[0014] Figure 10 It shows Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein Figure 8 The wedge-shaped slider is captured between the cartridge body and the cartridge tray of the end effector;

[0015] Figure 11 It shows the actuation Figure 1 A perspective view of another example of a wedge-shaped slider for a nail driver of an instrument, showing a wedge-shaped slider having a bin wall support feature, a nail driver support feature, a tapered distal end, and multiple surface finishes;

[0016] Figure 12 It shows Figure 11 Side view of the wedge-shaped slider;

[0017] Figure 13 It shows Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein Figure 11 The wedge-shaped slider is captured between the cartridge body and the cartridge tray of the end effector;

[0018] Figure 14A It shows Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein Figure 11 The wedge-shaped slider is captured between the cartridge body and the cartridge tray of the end effector, which shows the wedge-shaped slider in a proximal position;

[0019] Figure 14B It shows Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein Figure 11 The wedge-shaped slider is captured between the cartridge body and the cartridge tray of the end effector, which shows that the distal chamfer of the wedge-shaped slider partially lifts the corresponding nail driver during the distal translation of the wedge-shaped slider.

[0020] Figure 14C It shows Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein Figure 11 The wedge-shaped slider is captured between the cartridge body and the cartridge tray of the end effector, which shows that the top surface of the base of the wedge-shaped slider vertically supports the corresponding nail driver during the distal translation of the wedge-shaped slider.

[0021] Figure 14D It shows Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein Figure 11 The wedge-shaped slider is captured between the cartridge body and the cartridge tray of the end effector, which shows that the cam surface of the slider guide of the wedge-shaped slider fully lifts the corresponding nail driver during the distal translation of the wedge-shaped slider.

[0022] Figure 15 It shows Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein another exemplary wedge-shaped slider is captured between the cartridge body and the cartridge tray of the end effector, showing that the wedge-shaped slider has inwardly inclined inner and outer slider guides and undercut.

[0023] Figure 16 It shows Figure 3 The end cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein another exemplary wedge slider is captured between the cartridge body and the cartridge tray of the end effector, showing that the wedge slider has inner and outer slider guides with inwardly inclined front ends;

[0024] Figure 17 It shows Figure 3 The end cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein another exemplary wedge slider is captured between the cartridge body and the cartridge tray of the end effector, showing that the wedge slider has an inwardly inclined inner slider guide;

[0025] Figure 18 A cross-sectional view of another exemplary wedge-shaped slider with a V-shaped base is shown;

[0026] Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of another exemplary wedge-shaped slider with a bifurcated central nose is shown;

[0027] Figure 20 It shows Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein an exemplary staple cartridge is removably mounted into the channel of the lower jaw of the end effector, showing that the staple cartridge has various biasing features; and

[0028] Figure 21 It shows Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the end effector, wherein an exemplary staple cartridge is removably mounted into a channel in the lower jaw of the end effector, showing that the staple cartridge has a cartridge tray with protrusions for reducing tissue gap between the upper platform of the staple cartridge and the inner surface of the anvil.

[0029] The accompanying drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and various embodiments of the invention can be conceived to be implemented in many other ways, including those not necessarily shown in the drawings. The drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention; however, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the explicit arrangements shown. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The following description of certain examples of the invention is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is shown by way of example, and a best mode is contemplated for carrying out the invention. It will be appreciated that the invention can have other different and obvious aspects, all of which are not departing from the invention. Therefore, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as substantially illustrative and not restrictive.

[0031] I. Examples of Surgical Staplers

[0032] Figures 1 to 7 An example of a surgical suturing and cutting instrument (10) is shown, in Figure 1In the non-articular state shown, its dimensions are set for insertion through a trocar, thoracotomy, or other incision into the patient's surgical site to perform surgical procedures. The instrument (10) of this example includes a handle portion (20) connected to a shaft (22). The shaft (22) terminates distally in an articulation joint (11), which is further coupled to an end effector (12). It should be understood that terms such as “proximal” and “distal” as used herein refer to the handle portion (20) of the instrument (10) grasped by a clinician. Thus, the end effector (12) is located distally relative to the more proximal handle portion (20).

[0033] Once the joint motion connector (11) and end effector (12) are inserted into the patient's body, the joint motion connector (11) can perform remote joint movements via the joint motion control (13), such as... Figure 1 As shown in the virtual image, the end effector (12) is deflected from the longitudinal axis (LA) of the shaft (22) at a desired angle (α). By way of example only, the articulation joint (11) and / or articulation control (13) may be constructed and operable in accordance with at least some of the teachings of the following U.S. patents: U.S. Patent No. 9,186,142, filed November 17, 2015, entitled “Surgical Instrument End Effector Articulation Drive with Pinion and Opposing Racks,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and / or U.S. Patent No. 9,795,379, published October 24, 2017, entitled “Surgical Instrument with Multi-Diameter Shaft,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Various other suitable forms that the articulation joint (11) and articulation control (13) may take in accordance with the teachings herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0034] The end effector (12) of this example includes a lower jaw (16) and an upper jaw in the form of a pivotable anvil (18). By way of example only, the lower jaw (16) may be constructed and operated according to at least some of the teachings of the following U.S. Patent No. 9,808,248, entitled “Installation Features for Surgical Instrument End Effector Cartridge,” published November 7, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The anvil (18) may be constructed and operated according to at least some of the teachings of U.S. Patent No. 10,092,292, entitled “Staple Forming Features for Surgical Stapling Instrument,” published October 9, 2018, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Various other suitable forms that the lower jaw (16) and the anvil (18) may take in accordance with the teachings herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0035] The handle portion (20) includes a pistol grip (24) and a closing trigger (26). The closing trigger (26) is pivotable toward the pistol grip (24) so ​​that the anvil (18) clamps or closes toward the lower jaws (16) of the end effector (12). Such closure of the anvil (18) is provided by a closing tube (32) and a closing ring (33), both of which translate longitudinally relative to the handle portion (20) in response to the pivoting of the closing trigger (26) relative to the pistol grip (24). The closing tube (32) extends along the length of the shaft (22); and the closing ring (33) is positioned distal to the articulated joint (11). The articulated joint (11) is operable to transmit longitudinal motion from the closing tube (32) to the closing ring (33).

[0036] The shank portion (20) also includes a firing trigger (28). An elongated member (not shown) extends longitudinally through the shaft (22) and, in response to actuation of the firing trigger (28), transmits longitudinal firing motion from the shank portion (20) to the firing beam (14). This distal translation of the firing beam (14) causes the tissue clamped in the end effector (12) to be sutured and severed, as will be described in more detail below. Thereafter, the triggers (26, 28) are released to release the tissue from the end effector (12).

[0037] like Figures 4A to 4BAs best seen in this example, the firing beam (14) includes a transversely oriented upper pin (38), a firing beam cap (44), a transversely oriented middle pin (46), and a distal cutting edge (48). The upper pin (38) is positioned within a longitudinal anvil slot (42) of the anvil (18) and is translatable within said longitudinal anvil slot. The firing beam cap (44) extends the firing beam (14) through a lower jaw slot (45). Figure 4B The lower surface of the lower jaw (16) is slidably engaged (shown), and a lower jaw groove (45) is formed through the lower jaw (16). A central pin (46) slidably engages the top surface of the lower jaw (16), thereby cooperating with the firing beam top cover (44). Thus, the firing beam (14) necessarily separates the end actuator (12) during firing. By way of example only, the firing beam (14) and / or associated locking features may be constructed and operated in accordance with at least some of the teachings of the following U.S. Patent No. 9,717,497, entitled “Lockout Feature for Movable Cutting Member of Surgical Instrument”, issued August 1, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Other suitable forms that the firing beam (14) may take in accordance with the teachings herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0038] Figure 3 This example shows a firing beam (14) positioned proximally and an anvil (18) pivoting to the open position, allowing an unexploded cartridge (37) to be removably inserted into a channel in the lower jaws (16). Figures 5 to 6 As best seen, the staple cartridge (37) in this example includes a cartridge body (70) that presents an upper platform (72) and is coupled to a lower cartridge tray (74). Figure 3 As best viewed, the vertical slot (49) is formed as part of the staple cartridge (37). Three rows of staple holes (51) are formed to pass through the upper platform (72) on one side of the vertical slot (49), and another set of three rows of staple holes (51) is formed to pass through the upper platform (72) on the other side of the vertical slot (49). Of course, any other suitable number of staple rows can be provided (e.g., two rows, four rows, or other numbers). See again Figures 4A to 6A wedge-shaped slider (41) and multiple nail actuators (43) are held between the cartridge (70) and the tray (74), wherein the wedge-shaped slider (41) is located proximal to the nail actuators (43) when the nail cartridge (37) is in a pre-firing (or "unused") state. The wedge-shaped slider (41) is capable of longitudinal movement within the nail cartridge (37); while the nail actuators (43) are capable of vertical movement within the nail cartridge (37). The nails (47) are also positioned within the cartridge (70), above the corresponding nail actuators (43). Specifically, each nail (47) is vertically driven within the cartridge (70) by the nail actuator (43) to drive the nail (47) through the associated nail hole (51). Figures 4A to 4B and Figure 6 As is best seen, the wedge slider (41) has an inclined cam surface that pushes the nail driver (43) upward as the wedge slider (41) is driven toward the distal end through the nail cartridge (37).

[0039] By way of example only, the stapler (37) may be constructed and operated in accordance with at least some of the teachings of the following U.S. Patent No. 9,517,065, entitled “Integrated Tissue Positioning and Jaw Alignment Features for Surgical Stapler,” published December 13, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Other suitable forms that the stapler (37) may take in accordance with the teachings herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0040] By advancing the closing tube (32) and closing ring (33) to the distal end, the end actuator (12) is as follows: Figures 4A to 4B In the closed configuration shown, the firing beam (14) is advanced to engage with the anvil (18) by engaging the upper pin (38) into the longitudinal anvil slot (42). The pusher block (80) located at the distal end of the firing beam (14)... Figure 5 The (shown) is configured to engage the wedge-shaped slider (41) such that when the firing trigger (28) is actuated, and the firing beam (14) is advanced distally through the staple cartridge (37), the pusher (80) pushes the wedge-shaped slider (41) distally. During such firing, the cutting edge (48) of the firing beam (14) enters the vertical slot (49) of the staple cartridge (37), thereby severing the tissue held between the staple cartridge (37) and the anvil (18). Figures 4A to 4BAs shown, the intermediate pin (46) and the pusher (80) actuate the nail cartridge (37) together by entering the slot (49) within the cartridge (37), thereby driving the wedge-shaped slider (41) into upward-pushing contact with the nail actuator (43), which in turn drives the nail (47) outward through the nail hole (51) and causes the nail to contact the nail forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18). Figure 3 (as shown in the diagram) forms a contact. Figure 4B The firing beam (14) is shown after the tissue has been cut and sutured. It should also be understood that from... Figures 4A to 4B The nail-shaped recess (53) is intentionally omitted in the view; however, the nail-shaped recess (53) is as follows: Figure 3 As shown. It should also be understood that, from Figure 5 The anvil (18) is intentionally omitted in the view.

[0041] Figure 7 An end effector (12) is shown that has been actuated through layers (L1, L2) of tissue (T) in a single stroke. As shown, the cutting blade (48) ( Figure 7 The tissue (T) has been cut through (covered in the middle), and the staple driver (43) has driven three rows of alternating staples (47) through the tissue (T) on each side of the cut line created by the cutting edge (48). In this example, all the staples (47) are oriented substantially parallel to the cut line, but it should be understood that the staples (47) can be positioned in any suitable orientation. In this example, after the first stroke is completed, the end effector (12) is withdrawn from the cannula or incision, the empty staple cartridge (37) is replaced with a new staple cartridge, and then the end effector (12) is reinserted through the cannula or incision to reach the suture site for further cutting and suturing. This process can be repeated until the desired number of incisions and staples (47) have been provided. The anvil (18) may need to be closed to facilitate insertion and withdrawal of the cannula; and the anvil (18) may need to be opened to facilitate replacement of the staple cartridge (37).

[0042] In some embodiments, the device (10) provides motorized control of the firing beam (14). Such motorization may be provided, by way of example only, according to at least some of the teachings of the following U.S. patents: U.S. Patent No. 9,622,746, entitled “Distal Tip Features for End Effector of Surgical Instrument,” published April 18, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and / or U.S. Patent No. 8,210,411, entitled “Motor-Driven Surgical Instrument,” published July 3, 2012, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Other suitable components, features, and configurations for providing motorization of the firing beam (14) will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. It should also be understood that some other embodiments may provide manual drive of the firing beam (14), thus omitting the motor.

[0043] II. An exemplary slider having a bin wall support feature and multiple surface finishes

[0044] In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a wedge-shaped slide that is configured to provide stiffness to the cartridge (37) by supporting and / or stabilizing the walls of the cartridge (70) adjacent to the wedge-shaped slide, thereby facilitating alignment between the pin hole (51) and the corresponding pin-forming recess (53) during tissue clamping between the cartridge (37) and the anvil (18) and / or during firing. Alternatively, it may be desirable to provide a wedge-shaped slide with multiple different surface finishes (also referred to as “surface texture” or “surface morphology”). Such multiple different surface finishes allow the wedge-shaped slide to be manufactured via a process that imparts an initial, relatively rough surface finish to the entire surface of the wedge-shaped slide to a selected surface with a final, relatively smooth surface finish, such that the selected surface can smoothly interact with the corresponding portion of the cartridge (37), such as the pin actuator (43) Figures 8 to 10 An exemplary wedge slider (110) providing such functionality is shown. The wedge slider (110) is similar to the wedge slider (41) described above, except as further described below. For example, the wedge slider (110) occupies the same amount of space longitudinally within the staple cartridge (37) as the wedge slider (41), thereby making the wedge slider (110) and the wedge slider (41) substantially interchangeable.

[0045] The wedge-shaped slider (110) in this example includes a base comprising a base platform (112) and a central raised platform (114) extending upward from the base platform (112). In the example shown, the base platform (112) has a substantially flat bottom surface (116) that defines a horizontal plane and is configured to slide longitudinally along the tray (74) as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). The base platform (112) also has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (118) parallel to the bottom surface (116), and the raised platform (114) similarly has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (120) parallel to the bottom surface (116). Figure 10 As shown in the best embodiment, the top surface (118, 120) is configured to face and / or slidably contact or otherwise engage with the corresponding bottom surface of the corresponding wall (71) of the compartment (70), thereby vertically supporting the corresponding wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37).

[0046] The base of this type also includes: a lower chamfer (122) that slopes upward and distally from the distal end of the bottom surface (116) to the outer and inner distal ends of the base platform (112); a pair of upper chamfers (124) that slope downward and distally from the corresponding distal ends of the top surface (118) of the base platform (112) to the outer distal ends of the base platform (112); and a pair of inner upper chamfers (126) that slope downward and distally from the corresponding distal ends of the top surface (120) of the raised platform (114) to the inner distal ends of the base platform (112). The chamfers (122, 124, 126) may also be referred to as “tapered surfaces” or “bevels”. The lower chamfer (122) may extend across the width of the base platform (112) and may have a length greater than the thickness of the base platform (112) (e.g., between the bottom surface (116) and either top surface (118)). Similarly, the outer upper chamfer (124) may each have a length greater than the thickness of the base platform (112). The lower chamfer (122) may be configured to facilitate unimpeded longitudinal movement of the wedge-shaped slider (110) through the staple cartridge (37) in the distal direction by reducing the likelihood that the distal end of the base platform (112) will catch the tray (74) or be otherwise blocked by the tray. For example, when the wedge-shaped slider (110) is driven distally through the staple cartridge (37), the lower chamfer (122) may push the tray (74) (which may be constructed of a flexible material) slightly downward away from the bottom surface of the wall (71) of the cartridge body (70). In some designs, one or more of the chamfers (122, 124, 126) may be omitted. For example, one or more of the chamfers (122, 124, 126) may be replaced by one or more corresponding fillets.

[0047] The wedge-shaped slider (110) also includes a pair of laterally opposed outer slider guides (130) extending upward from the base platform (112), and a pair of laterally opposed inner slider guides (132) extending upward from both the base platform (112) and the raised platform (114). The slider guides (130, 132) may also be referred to as "cam ramps" or "cam wedges". In this type, the slider guides (130, 132) extend substantially straight and upright from the respective top surfaces (118, 120) of the base platform (112) and the raised platform (114), such that the slider guides (130, 132) are oriented perpendicularly to the horizontal plane and parallel to the vertical-longitudinal plane. In the example shown, the inner slider guides (132) are laterally spaced from the adjacent outer slider guides (130) to define the top surface (118) of the base platform (112). In this respect, the top surfaces (118) of the base platform (112) each extend at least partially along the length of the sliding guides (130, 132), and the top surfaces (120) of the raised platforms (114) each extend at least partially along the length of the corresponding inner sliding guides (132). The outer sliding guides (130) of this type each have a first height relative to the bottom surface (116) of the base platform (112), while the inner sliding guides (132) each have a second height relative to the bottom surface (116) of the base platform (112) that is less than the first height. Similarly, in the example shown, the outer and inner sliding guides (130, 132) each terminate proximally at the same longitudinal position (e.g., at the proximal end of the base platform (112), while the outer sliding guides (130) each terminate distally at a first longitudinal position, and the inner sliding guides (132) each terminate distally at a second longitudinal position relative to the first longitudinal position, such that the outer sliding guides (130) each have a first length and the inner sliding guides (132) each have a second length greater than the first length. Therefore, the distal ends of the outer sliding guides (130) are aligned with each other in the longitudinal direction, and the distal ends of the inner sliding guides (132) are aligned with each other in the longitudinal direction and offset from the distal ends of the outer sliding guides (130).

[0048] like Figure 10As best shown, the sliding guides (130, 132) are configured to be received within corresponding longitudinally extending slots (73) of the cartridge (70) and to slidably contact or otherwise engage corresponding side surfaces of corresponding walls (71) of the cartridge (70), thereby horizontally stabilizing the walls (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). For example, the outer and inner sliding guides (130, 132) can suppress lateral inward and / or lateral outward deflection (e.g., bending) of the walls (71). In this respect, the sliding guides (130, 132) may each have a thickness equal to or slightly less than the width of the corresponding slot (73). In some configurations, the sliding guides (130, 132) may additionally or alternatively be configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the corresponding upper slot surface of the corresponding slot (73) of the cartridge (70), thereby vertically supporting the upper platform (72) as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the stud cartridge (37).

[0049] Each slider rail (130, 132) of the wedge slider (110) presents one or more corresponding inclined cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146) for lifting the pin driver (43) upward to drive the corresponding pin (47) outward through the corresponding pin hole (51) as the wedge slider (110) is driven distally through the pin magazine (37). In the example shown, each outer slider rail (130) includes a front cam surface (140) oriented at a first angle relative to a horizontal plane defined by the bottom surface (116) and a rear cam surface (142) oriented at a second angle relative to the horizontal plane, such that the outer slider rails (130) have the same side elevation profile as each other. Similarly, each inner sliding guide rail (132) includes a front cam surface (144) oriented at a first angle relative to the horizontal plane and a rear cam surface (146) oriented at a third angle relative to the horizontal plane, such that the inner sliding guide rails (132) have the same side elevation profile as each other and an elevation profile different from that of the outer sliding guide rail (130). Thus, the wedge-shaped slider (110) can be substantially symmetrical about the vertical-longitudinal plane (at least with respect to the configuration of the sliding guide rails (130, 132)).

[0050] In this configuration, the first angle is greater than the second angle, which in turn is greater than the third angle. Alternatively, any other suitable relative angle may be used. In the example shown, the upper chamfers (124, 126) are also oriented at a first angle relative to the horizontal plane, such that each front cam surface (140) of the outer slider guide (130) is seamlessly abutted (and has a side profile overlapping therewith) the corresponding outer upper chamfer (124) to jointly define a single continuous surface, and such that each front cam surface (144) of the inner slider guide (132) is seamlessly abutted (and has a side profile overlapping therewith) the corresponding inner upper chamfer (126) to jointly define another single continuous surface.

[0051] The wedge-shaped slider (110) also includes a central nose (150) that extends upward from the raised platform (114) between the inner slider guides (132) and also extends distally from both the raised platform (114) and the base platform (112) to a distal tip (152). In the example shown, the central nose (150) is laterally spaced from each inner slider guide (132) to define a top surface (120) of the raised platform (114). More specifically, the central nose (150) is equidistant from the inner slider guides (132). The central nose (150) of this type includes a lower portion (154) extending distally from both the base platform (114) and the raised platform (154) to the distal tip (152), and an upper portion (156) extending upward from both the raised platform (112) and the lower portion (114).

[0052] like Figure 9As best shown, the lower portion (154) of the central nose (150) of this type includes a tapered bottom surface (160) with a downward chamfer (122) that slopes proximally from the distal tip to the base platform (112). The tapered bottom surface (160) can be configured to facilitate unimpeded longitudinal movement of the wedge-shaped slider (110) through the staple cartridge (37) in the distal direction by reducing the likelihood that the distal tip (152) will catch the tray (74) or be otherwise blocked by the tray. For example, when the wedge-shaped slider (110) is driven distally through the staple cartridge (37), the tapered bottom surface (160) can slightly push the tray (74) (which may be constructed of a flexible material) away from the bottom surface of the wall (71) of the cartridge body (70). In the example shown, the tapered bottom surface (160) is oriented at the same angle as the lower chamfer (122) relative to the horizontal plane defined by the bottom surface (116), such that the tapered bottom surface (160) and the lower chamfer (122) are seamlessly adjacent to each other to jointly define a single continuous chamfer, thereby further facilitating unimpeded longitudinal movement of the wedge slider (110) through the pin magazine (37) in the distal direction. In some types, the tapered bottom surface (160) may be omitted. For example, the tapered bottom surface (160) may be replaced by one or more corresponding fillets.

[0053] The upper portion (156) of the central nose (150) of this type is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane defined by the bottom surface (116). As shown, the upper portion (156) extends longitudinally from the proximal end of the raised platform (114) to the distal tip (152), such that the upper portion (156) is positioned distally relative to the distal end of the base platform (112) and relative to the distal ends of the slider guides (130, 132), and such that the upper portion (156) extends at least partially along the length of each slider guide (130, 132).

[0054] In the example shown, the lower portion (154) of the central nose (150) extends laterally outward relative to the upper portion (156) on the opposite side to define a pair of laterally opposing, upward-facing flange surfaces (162) extending longitudinally from the corresponding top surface (120) of the raised platform (114) to the distal tip (152). More specifically, the flange surfaces (162) are substantially flat, parallel to the horizontal plane defined by the bottom surface (116), and positioned at the same height relative to the bottom surface (116) as the top surface (120) of the raised platform (114), such that the flange surfaces (162) and the corresponding top surface (120) of the raised platform (114) seamlessly abut each other to jointly define a corresponding single continuous surface. As shown, each flange surface (162) is positioned distally at least partially relative to the distal end of the base platform (112) and relative to the distal end of the sliding guide (130, 132).

[0055] like Figure 10 Ideally, the central nose (150) is configured to be received at least partially within a vertical slot (49) of the staple cartridge (37). In some configurations, the central nose (150) is configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the inner wall (71) of the cartridge body (70), thereby vertically supporting and / or horizontally stabilizing the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). In this configuration, the flange surface (162) faces and slidably contacts or otherwise engages the corresponding lower surface of the inner wall (71), thereby vertically supporting the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). Furthermore, the upper portion (156) of this type can slidably contact or otherwise engage the transversely inward surface of the inner wall (71), thereby horizontally stabilizing the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the pin magazine (37). For example, the upper portion (156) can suppress transversely inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the inner wall (71). In this respect, the upper portion (156) may have a thickness equal to or slightly less than the width of the vertical slot (49), while the lower portion (154) may have a thickness greater than the width of the vertical slot (49).

[0056] Since each flange surface (162) of the central nose (150) is positioned distally relative to the distal end of the sliding guide (130, 132), the flange surface (162) can vertically support the inner wall (71) of the cartridge (70) at a distal longitudinal position relative to the sliding guide (130, 132) as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the cartridge (37). Similarly, since the upper portion (156) is positioned distally relative to the distal end of the sliding guide (130, 132), the upper portion (156) can horizontally stabilize the inner wall (71) of the cartridge (70) at a distal longitudinal position relative to the sliding guide (130, 132) as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the cartridge (37). In this way, before (e.g., at least immediately before) the corresponding stub driver (43) is raised by the corresponding sliding guide (130, 132) to drive the corresponding stub (47) outward through the stub hole (51), the central nose (150) can provide vertical support and / or horizontal stability to the housing (70) at a longitudinal position corresponding to each stub hole (51) along the length of the housing (70). By providing vertical support and / or horizontal stability to the housing (70) at such longitudinal positions before raising the stub driver (43) to drive the stub (47) outward through the stub hole (51), the central nose (150) can facilitate proper alignment of each stub hole (51) with the corresponding stub forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18) before deploying and forming each stub (47). For example, the central nose (150) can facilitate vertical and / or angular alignment of each nail hole (51) with the corresponding nail-forming recess (53) by assisting in maintaining the upper platform (72) substantially parallel to the inner surface of the anvil (18) with the nail-forming recess (53) and / or by suppressing the lateral deflection of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise cause the nail hole (51) to be angled (e.g., laterally inward or laterally outward) relative to the corresponding nail-forming recess (53).

[0057] Furthermore, since the top surfaces (118, 120) of the base platform (112) and the raised platform (114) each extend at least partially along the length of the respective sliding guide (130, 132), the top surfaces (118, 120) can vertically support the corresponding wall (71) of the cartridge (70) at the same longitudinal position where the sliding guide (130, 132) is located as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). In this way, substantially simultaneously with the corresponding sliding guide (130, 132) raising the corresponding staple driver (43) to drive the corresponding staple (47) outward through the staple hole (51) (e.g., for at least a portion of its duration), the base platform (112) and / or the raised platform (114) can provide vertical support to the cartridge (70) along its length at a longitudinal position corresponding to each staple hole (51).

[0058] By providing vertical support to the housing (70) at such longitudinal positions substantially simultaneously with the lifting pin driver (43) to drive the pins (47) outward through the pin holes (51), the base platform (112) and / or the raised platform (114) can facilitate proper alignment of each pin hole (51) with the corresponding pin-forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18) during the deployment and forming of each pin (47). For example, the base platform (112) and / or the raised platform (114) can facilitate vertical and / or angular alignment of each pin hole (51) with the corresponding pin-forming recess (53) by assisting in maintaining the upper platform (72) substantially parallel to the inner surface of the anvil (18) with the pin-forming recess (53). Since the top surface (120) of the raised platform (114) is seamlessly adjacent to the corresponding flange surface (162), the central nose (150) and the raised platform (114) can cooperate to promote a continuous and proper alignment of each nail hole (51) with the corresponding nail forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18) from at least immediately before the deployment and forming of each nail (47) to the completion of the deployment and forming of each nail (47).

[0059] Furthermore, since the upper portion (156) of the central nose (150) extends at least partially along the length of each sliding guide (130, 132), the upper portion (156) can horizontally stabilize the wall (71) of the cartridge (70) at the same longitudinal position where the sliding guides (130, 132) are located as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). In this way, substantially simultaneously with the corresponding sliding guide (130, 132) raising the corresponding staple driver (43) to drive the corresponding staple (47) outward through the staple hole (51) (e.g., for at least a portion of its duration), the central nose (150) can provide horizontal stability to the cartridge (70) along its length at the longitudinal position corresponding to each staple hole (51). By providing horizontal stability to the housing (70) at such longitudinal positions substantially simultaneously with the lifting pin driver (43) to drive the pins (47) outward through the pin holes (51), the central nose (150) facilitates proper alignment of each pin hole (51) with the corresponding pin-forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18) while deploying and forming each pin (47). For example, the central nose (150) can facilitate vertical and / or angular alignment of each pin hole (51) with the corresponding pin-forming recess (53) by suppressing lateral deflection of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise cause the pin hole (51) to be angled (e.g., laterally inward or laterally outward) relative to the corresponding pin-forming recess (53). As discussed above, the sliding guides (130, 132) themselves can horizontally stabilize the corresponding walls (71) of the cartridge (70) at their respective longitudinal positions, and thus also facilitate vertical and / or angular alignment of each nail hole (51) with its corresponding nail forming recess (53) by suppressing lateral deflection of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise cause the nail hole (51) to be angled (e.g., laterally inward or laterally outward) relative to the corresponding nail forming recess (53). Therefore, as the wedge-shaped slider (110) moves longitudinally through the nail cartridge (37), the central nose (150) and the sliding guides (130, 132) can cooperatively provide horizontal stability to the cartridge (70) at their respective longitudinal positions. It should be understood that from Figure 10 The anvil (18) is intentionally omitted in the view.

[0060] The wedge-shaped slider (110) can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials, including but not limited to metallic materials such as stainless steel (e.g., hardened stainless steel) or titanium. In some forms, the wedge-shaped slider (110) can be manufactured via a metal injection molding (MIM) process. It should be understood that such a MIM process can provide improved compressive support and reduced lateral deflection to the wedge-shaped slider (110) compared to a wedge-shaped slider (110) formed, for example, from a plastic material, and can enable the wedge-shaped slider (110) to provide improved vertical support and / or horizontal stability to the housing (70) during use (e.g., clamping and / or firing). For example, such a MIM process can include molding the wedge-shaped slider (110) into a single integral part by mixing a liquid MIM raw material of metal powder and binder. The MIM process can also include subjecting the wedge-shaped slider (110) to various types of conditioning, including but not limited to cleaning, thermal debonding, and / or sintering.

[0061] In any case, after the MIM process is completed, all surfaces of the wedge slider (110) may have an initial (e.g., original MIM) surface finish, including the cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146) of the slider guides (130, 132). Such an initial surface finish may be rough, abrasive, and / or granular, and may generally resemble the texture of pitted sandpaper. Therefore, selected surfaces of the wedge slider (110) may be further adjusted to refine or otherwise remove the initial surface finish from the selected surfaces and provide the selected surfaces with a final surface finish that is relatively smoother (e.g., finer, more polished) than the initial surface finish. For example, the cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146) of the sliding guide (130, 132) can be machined to remove the initial surface finish from the cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146) and provide such a final surface finish to the cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146). The final surface finish of the cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146) promotes reduced friction and smooth interaction between the cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146) and the pin driver (43), and thereby minimizes wear on the portion of the pin driver (43) that is in contact with the cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146).

[0062] Although selected surfaces with a final surface finish have been described in the form of cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146), it should be understood that any other surface of the wedge slider (110) may additionally or alternatively be provided with a final surface finish. For example, the bottom surface (116) may be provided with a final surface finish to promote reduced friction and smooth interaction between the bottom surface (116) and the tray (74).

[0063] In some configurations, the remaining non-selected surfaces of the wedge slider (110) may not be further adjusted, such that the initial surface finish can be maintained on the non-selected surfaces during use (e.g., clamping and / or firing). For example, the top surfaces (118, 120) of the base platform (112) and the raised platform (114) and / or the flange surface (162) of the center nose (150) may maintain their initial surface finish. As another example, each surface of the wedge slider (110) may maintain its initial surface finish, except for the cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146) of the slider guides (130, 132). Thus, the selected surfaces of the wedge slider (110) may have a final surface finish, while the non-selected surfaces of the wedge slider (110) may have an initial surface finish, allowing the wedge slider (110) to have at least two different surface finishes.

[0064] Selected and unselected surfaces can be determined based on specific components of the pin cartridge (37) and / or firing beam (14) that interact with each individual surface of the wedge slider (110). In this respect, certain predetermined components of the wedge slider (110) that interact with the pin cartridge (37) and / or firing beam (14) may be more desirable for a final surface finish than other surfaces. For example, the cam surfaces (140, 142, 144, 146) of the slider rails (130, 132) may be selected to receive a final surface finish based on their interaction with the pin actuator (43), while the remaining surfaces of the slider rails (130, 132), the top surface (118) of the base platform (112), the top surface (120) of the raised platform (114), and / or the flange surface (162) of the central nose (150) may not be selected to receive a final surface finish based on their interaction with the cartridge body (70). As another example, the bottom surface (116) may be selected to receive the final surface finish based on its interaction with the tray (74), while the proximal end surface of the wedge slider (110) may not be selected to receive the final surface finish based on its interaction with the push block (80).

[0065] III. Features a bin wall support feature, a nail driver support feature, a tapered distal end, and multiple smooth surfaces. Exemplary slider for degree

[0066] In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a wedge-shaped slider configured to support the nail driver (43) before it is fully raised to drive the corresponding nail (47) outward through the corresponding nail hole (51), thereby facilitating alignment between the nail driver (43) and the corresponding nail forming recess (53) during firing. Alternatively, it may be desirable to provide a wedge-shaped slider configured to provide rigidity to the nail cartridge (37) and / or have multiple different surface finishes (also referred to as “surface texture” or “surface topography”) as discussed above with respect to the wedge-shaped slider (110). Figures 11 to 13 An exemplary wedge slider (210) providing such functionality is shown. The wedge slider (210) is similar to the wedge slider (110) described above, except as further described below. For example, the wedge slider (210) occupies the same amount of space longitudinally within the staple cartridge (37) as the wedge slider (41, 110), thereby making the wedge slider (210) substantially interchangeable with the wedge slider (41, 110).

[0067] The wedge-shaped slider (210) of this example includes a base comprising a base platform (212) and a central raised platform (214) extending upward from the base platform (212). In the example shown, the base platform (212) has a substantially flat bottom surface (216) that defines a horizontal plane and is configured to slide longitudinally along the tray (74) as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). The base platform (212) also has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (218) parallel to the bottom surface (216), and the raised platform (214) similarly has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (220) parallel to the bottom surface (216). Figure 13 As best shown, the top surfaces (218, 220) are configured to face and / or slidably contact or otherwise engage with the corresponding bottom surface of the corresponding wall (71) of the cartridge (70), thereby vertically supporting the corresponding wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). In this example, the top surface (218) of the base platform (212) is further configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage with the corresponding staple driver (43), thereby vertically supporting the corresponding staple driver (43) as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), as described in more detail below.

[0068] The base of this type also includes: a lower chamfer (222) that slopes upward and distally from the distal end of the bottom surface (216) to the distal end of the base platform (212); a pair of distal upper chamfers (224) that slope downward and distally from the respective distal ends of the top surface (218) of the base platform (212) to the distal end of the base platform (212); and a pair of proximal upper chamfers (226) that slope downward and distally from the respective distal ends of the top surface (220) of the raised platform (214) to the respective top surface (218) of the base platform. The chamfers (222, 224, 226) may also be referred to as “tapered surfaces” or “bevels”. The lower chamfer (222) may extend across the width of the base platform (212) and may have a length greater than the thickness of the base platform (212) (e.g., between the bottom surface (216) and either top surface (218)). Similarly, the distal upper chamfer (224) may each have a length greater than the thickness of the base platform (212). The lower chamfer (222) may be configured to facilitate unimpeded longitudinal movement of the wedge-shaped slider (210) through the staple cartridge (37) in the distal direction by reducing the likelihood that the distal end of the base platform (212) will catch the tray (74) or be otherwise blocked by the tray. For example, when the wedge-shaped slider (210) is driven distally through the staple cartridge (37), the lower chamfer (222) may push the tray (74) (which may be constructed of a flexible material) slightly downward away from the bottom surface of the wall (71) of the cartridge body (70). The distal upper chamfer (224) may be configured to partially lift the nail actuator (43) onto the corresponding top surface (218) of the base platform (212) without driving the corresponding nail (47) outward through the corresponding nail hole (51) when the wedge-shaped slider (210) is driven distally through the nail cartridge (37). For example, the distal upper chamfer (224) may be configured to engage the nail actuator (43) in a cam manner to push the nail actuator (43) onto the corresponding top surface (218). Alternatively, the distal upper chamfer (224) may be configured to slightly lift the outer wall (71) of the cartridge body (70) onto the corresponding top surface (218) of the base platform (212) when the wedge-shaped slider (210) is driven distally through the nail cartridge (37). For example, the distal upper chamfer (224) may be configured to engage the outer wall (71) in a cam-like manner to push the outer wall (71) onto the corresponding top surface (218), as described in more detail below. In some forms, any one or more of the chamfers (222, 224, 226) may be omitted. For example, any one or more of the chamfers (222, 224, 226) may be replaced by one or more corresponding fillets.

[0069] The wedge-shaped slider (210) also includes a pair of laterally opposed outer slider guides (230) extending upward from the base platform (212), and first and second laterally opposed inner slider guides (232, 233) extending upward from both the base platform (212) and the raised platform (214). The slider guides (230, 232, 233) may also be referred to as "cam ramps" or "cam wedges". In this type, the slider guides (230, 232, 233) extend substantially straight and upright from the respective top surfaces (218, 220) of the base platform (212) and the raised platform (214), such that the slider guides (230, 232, 233) are oriented perpendicularly to the horizontal plane and parallel to the vertical-longitudinal plane. In the example shown, the inner sliding guides (232, 233) are laterally spaced from the adjacent outer sliding guides (230) to define the top surface (218) of the base platform (212). In this respect, each top surface (218) of the base platform (212) extends at least partially along the length of the sliding guides (230, 232, 233), and each top surface (220) of the raised platform (214) extends at least partially along the length of the respective inner sliding guide (232, 233). Furthermore, each top surface (218) of the base platform (212) is at least partially positioned distally relative to the distal ends of the sliding guides (230, 232, 233). The outer sliding guide rails (230) of this type each have a first height relative to the bottom surface (216) of the base platform (212), while the inner sliding guide rails (232, 233) each have a second height relative to the bottom surface (216) of the base platform (212) that is less than the first height. Similarly, in the example shown, the outer and inner sliding guides (230, 232, 233) each terminate proximally at the same longitudinal position (e.g., at the proximal end of the base platform (212), while the outer sliding guide (230) terminates distally at a first longitudinal position, the first inner sliding guide (232) terminates distally at a second longitudinal position distal to the first longitudinal position, and the second inner sliding guide (233) terminates distally at a third longitudinal position distal to the first and second longitudinal positions, such that the outer sliding guide (230) each has a first length, the first inner sliding guide (232) has a second length greater than the first length, and the second inner sliding guide (233) has a third length greater than the first and second lengths. Therefore, the distal ends of the outer sliding guide rail (230) are aligned with each other in the longitudinal direction, and the distal ends of the first and second inner sliding guide rails (232, 233) are offset from each other in the longitudinal direction and are offset from the distal ends of the outer sliding guide rail (230).

[0070] Each slider rail (230, 232, 233) is longitudinally aligned with the corresponding distal upper chamfer (224) of the base, such that the corresponding top surface (218) of the base platform (212) extends longitudinally between each slider rail (230, 232, 233) and the corresponding distal upper chamfer (224). In some configurations, the distal ends of the slider rails (230, 232, 233) may be spaced from the corresponding distal upper chamfer (224) by a distance equal to or greater than the length of the corresponding pin driver (43), such that the corresponding top surface (218) can support the corresponding pin driver (43) in an upright manner between each slider rail (230, 232, 233) and the corresponding distal upper chamfer (224).

[0071] like Figure 13 As best shown, the sliding guides (230, 232, 233) are configured to be received within corresponding longitudinally extending slots (73) of the cartridge (70) and to slidably contact or otherwise engage corresponding side surfaces of corresponding walls (71) of the cartridge (70), thereby horizontally stabilizing the walls (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). For example, the outer and inner sliding guides (230, 232, 233) can suppress lateral inward and / or lateral outward deflection (e.g., bending) of the walls (71). In this respect, the sliding guides (230, 232, 233) may each have a thickness equal to or slightly less than the width of the corresponding slot (73). In some configurations, the sliding guides (230, 232, 233) may additionally or alternatively be configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the corresponding upper slot surface of the corresponding slot (73) of the cartridge (70), thereby vertically supporting the upper platform (72) as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the stud cartridge (37).

[0072] Each slider rail (230, 232, 233) of the wedge slider (210) presents one or more corresponding inclined cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) for fully lifting the pin driver (43) upward to drive the corresponding pin (47) outward through the corresponding pin hole (51) when the wedge slider (210) is driven distally through the pin magazine (37). In the example shown, each outer slider rail (230) includes a front cam surface (240) oriented at a first angle relative to a horizontal plane defined by the bottom surface (216) and a rear cam surface (242) oriented at a second angle relative to the horizontal plane, such that the outer slider rails (230) have the same side elevation profile as each other. Similarly, the first and second inner slider rails (232, 233) each include a front cam surface (244, 245) oriented at a first angle relative to the horizontal plane. In the example shown, the first inner sliding guide (232) includes a rear cam surface (246) oriented at a third angle relative to the horizontal plane, and the second inner sliding guide (233) includes a rear cam surface (247) oriented at a fourth angle relative to the horizontal plane, such that the inner sliding guides (232, 233) have different elevation profiles from each other and different from the elevation profile of the outer sliding guide (230). Therefore, the wedge-shaped slider (210) can be substantially asymmetrical about the vertical-longitudinal plane (at least relative to the configuration of the sliding guides (230, 232, 233)).

[0073] In this variation, the first angle is greater than the second angle, the second angle is greater than the third angle, and the third angle is greater than the fourth angle. Alternatively, any other suitable relative angle may be used.

[0074] The wedge-shaped slider (210) also includes a central nose (250) extending upward from both the base platform (212) and the raised platform (214) between the inner slider guides (232, 233) and also extending distally from the raised platform (214) to the distal tip (252). In the example shown, the central nose (250) is laterally spaced from each inner slider guide (232, 233) to define the top surface (220) of the raised platform (214). More specifically, the central nose (250) is equidistantly spaced from the inner slider guides (232, 233). The central nose (250) of this type includes a lower portion (254) extending distally from the raised platform (214) to the distal tip (252), and an upper portion (256) extending upward from both the raised platform (214) and the lower portion (254). The upper portion (256) of this type is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane. As shown, the upper portion (256) extends longitudinally from the proximal end of the raised platform (214) to the distal tip (252), such that the upper portion (256) is at least partially positioned distally relative to the distal ends of the sliding guides (230, 232, 233), and such that the upper portion (256) extends at least partially along the length of each sliding guide (230, 232, 233). The distal tip (252) of this type is positioned at the same longitudinal position as the distal end of the base platform (212).

[0075] In the example shown, the lower portion (254) extends laterally outward relative to the upper portion (256) on the opposite side of the upper portion (256) to define a pair of laterally opposing, upward-facing flange surfaces (262) extending longitudinally from the respective top surface (220) of the raised platform (214) toward the distal tip (252). More specifically, the flange surfaces (262) are substantially flat, parallel to the horizontal plane, and positioned relative to the bottom surface (216) at the same height as the top surface (220) of the raised platform (214), such that the flange surfaces (262) and the respective top surface (220) of the raised platform (214) are seamlessly abutted to each other to jointly define a respective single continuous surface. As shown, each flange surface (262) is at least partially positioned distally relative to the distal end of the sliding guide (230, 232, 233). The central nose (250) of this type also includes a pair of laterally opposing distal tapered surfaces (263) that slope downward and distally toward the distal tip (252) from the respective distal end of the flange surface (262). The tapered surfaces (263) may be configured to slightly lift the inner wall (71) of the cartridge (70) onto the respective flange surface (262) of the central nose (250) when the wedge-shaped slider (210) is driven distally through the cartridge (37). For example, the tapered surfaces (263) may be configured to engage the inner wall (71) in a cam manner to push the inner wall (71) onto the respective flange surface (262), as described in more detail below. In some types, one or more of the tapered surfaces (263) may be omitted. For example, one or more of the tapered surfaces (263) may be replaced by one or more corresponding fillets.

[0076] like Figure 13As best shown, the central nose (250) is configured to be received at least partially within the vertical slot (49) of the staple cartridge (37). In some configurations, the central nose (250) is configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the inner wall (71) of the cartridge body (70), thereby vertically supporting and / or horizontally stabilizing the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). In this configuration, the flange surface (262) faces and slidably contacts or otherwise engages the corresponding lower surface of the inner wall (71), thereby vertically supporting the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). Furthermore, the upper portion (256) of this configuration contacts or otherwise engages the transversely inward surface of the inner wall (71), thereby horizontally stabilizing the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). For example, the upper portion (256) may suppress lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the inner wall (71). In this respect, the upper portion (256) may have a thickness equal to or slightly less than the width of the vertical slot (49), while the lower portion (254) may have a thickness greater than the width of the vertical slot (49).

[0077] Since each top surface (218) of the base platform (212) is positioned distally relative to the distal end of the sliding guide (230, 232, 233), the top surface (218) can vertically support the nail driver (43) and / or outer wall (71) of the cartridge (70) at a distal longitudinal position relative to the sliding guide (230, 232, 233) as the wedge-shaped sliding guide (210) moves longitudinally through the nail cartridge (37). In this way, before the corresponding sliding guide (230, 232, 233) fully lifts the corresponding nail driver (43) to drive the corresponding nail (47) outward through the nail hole (51) (e.g., at least immediately before it), the base platform (212) can provide vertical support to the nail driver (43) and / or the cartridge (70) at a longitudinal position corresponding to each nail hole (51) along the length of the cartridge (70). By providing vertical support to the housing (70) in such a longitudinal position before fully raising the nail driver (43) to drive the nail (47) outward through the nail hole (51), the base platform (212) facilitates proper alignment of each nail hole (51) with the corresponding nail forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18) before deploying and forming each nail (47). For example, the base platform (212) can facilitate vertical and / or angular alignment of each nail hole (51) with the corresponding nail forming recess (53) by assisting in maintaining the upper platform (72) substantially parallel to the inner surface of the anvil (18) with the nail forming recess (53). Similarly, by providing vertical support to the nail driver (43) in such a longitudinal position before fully raising the nail driver (43) to drive the nail (47) outward through the nail hole (51), the base platform (212) can facilitate proper alignment of each nail driver (43) with the corresponding nail forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18) before deploying and forming each nail (47). For example, the base platform (212) can facilitate vertical and / or angular alignment of each nail driver (43) with the corresponding nail forming recess (53) by assisting in maintaining the orientation of each nail driver (43) substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the anvil (18) with the nail forming recess (53), such as by suppressing the distal tilt of the nail driver (43) that would otherwise occur when the front cam surfaces (240, 244, 245) of the sliding guides (230, 232, 233) engage the nail driver (43) in a cam manner.

[0078] Similarly, since each flange surface (262) of the central nose (250) is at least partially positioned distally relative to the distal end of the sliding guides (230, 232, 233), the flange surfaces (262) can vertically support the inner wall (71) of the cartridge (70) at a distal longitudinal position relative to the sliding guides (230, 232, 233) as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the cartridge (37). Likewise, since the upper portion (256) is at least partially positioned distally relative to the distal end of the sliding guides (230, 232, 233), the upper portion (256) can horizontally stabilize the inner wall (71) of the cartridge (70) at a distal longitudinal position relative to the sliding guides (230, 232, 233) as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the cartridge (37). In this way, before the corresponding stub driver (43) is fully raised by the corresponding sliding guide (230, 232, 233) to drive the corresponding stub (47) outward through the stub (51) (e.g., at least immediately before it), the central nose (250) can provide vertical support and / or horizontal stability to the housing (70) at a longitudinal position corresponding to each stub (51) along the length of the housing (70). By providing vertical support and / or horizontal stability to the housing (70) at such longitudinal positions before fully raising the stub driver (43) to drive the stub (47) outward through the stub (51), the central nose (250) can facilitate proper alignment of each stub (51) with the corresponding stub forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18) before deploying and forming each stub (47). For example, the central nose (250) can facilitate vertical and / or angular alignment of each nail hole (51) with the corresponding nail-forming recess (53) by assisting in maintaining the upper platform (72) substantially parallel to the inner surface of the anvil (18) with the nail-forming recess (53) and / or by suppressing the lateral deflection of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise cause the nail hole (51) to be angled (e.g., laterally inward or laterally outward) relative to the corresponding nail-forming recess (53).

[0079] Furthermore, since the top surfaces (218, 220) of the base platform (212) and the raised platform (214) each extend at least partially along the length of the corresponding sliding guide rails (230, 232, 233), the top surfaces (218, 220) can vertically support the corresponding walls (71) of the compartment (70) at the same longitudinal position where the sliding guide rails (230, 232, 233) are located when the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). In this way, substantially simultaneously (e.g., for at least a portion of its duration) with the full lifting of the corresponding pin driver (43) by the corresponding sliding guides (230, 232, 233) to drive the corresponding pin (47) outward through the pin hole (51), the base platform (212) and / or the raised platform (214) can provide vertical support to the housing (70) along the length of the housing (70) at longitudinal positions corresponding to each pin hole (51). By providing vertical support to the housing (70) at such longitudinal positions substantially simultaneously with the full lifting of the pin driver (43) to drive the pin (47) outward through the pin hole (51), the base platform (212) and / or the raised platform (214) can facilitate proper alignment of each pin hole (51) with the corresponding pin forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18) during the deployment and forming of each pin (47). For example, the base platform (212) and / or the raised platform (214) can facilitate vertical and / or angular alignment of each nail hole (51) with the corresponding nail forming recess (53) by assisting in maintaining the upper platform (72) substantially parallel to the inner surface of the anvil (18) with the nail forming recess (53). Since the top surface (220) of the raised platform (214) is seamlessly abutted against the corresponding flange surface (262), the central nose (250) and the raised platform (214) can cooperate to facilitate a continuous and proper alignment of each nail hole (51) with the corresponding nail forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18) from at least immediately before the deployment and forming of each nail (47) to the completion of the deployment and forming of each nail (47).

[0080] Furthermore, since the upper portion (256) of the central nose (250) extends at least partially along the length of each sliding guide (230, 232, 233), the upper portion (256) can horizontally stabilize the wall (71) of the cartridge (70) at the same longitudinal position where the sliding guides (230, 232, 233) are located when the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). In this way, substantially simultaneously (e.g., for at least a portion of its duration) with the corresponding sliding guides (230, 232, 233) fully raising the corresponding staple driver (43) to drive the corresponding staple (47) outward through the staple hole (51), the central nose (250) can provide horizontal stability to the cartridge (70) along its length at the longitudinal position corresponding to each staple hole (51). By providing horizontal stability to the housing (70) at such longitudinal positions substantially simultaneously with the fully raised nail driver (43) to drive the nails (47) outward through the nail holes (51), the central nose (250) facilitates proper alignment of each nail hole (51) with the corresponding nail forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18) while deploying and forming each nail (47). For example, the central nose (250) can facilitate vertical and / or angular alignment of each nail hole (51) with the corresponding nail forming recess (53) by suppressing lateral deflection of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise cause the nail hole (51) to be angled (e.g., laterally inward or laterally outward) relative to the corresponding nail forming recess (53). As discussed above, the sliding guides (230, 232, 233) themselves can horizontally stabilize the corresponding walls (71) of the cartridge (70) at their respective longitudinal positions, and thus also promote vertical and / or angular alignment of each nail hole (51) with its corresponding nail forming recess (53) by suppressing lateral deflection of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise cause the nail hole (51) to be angled (e.g., laterally inward or laterally outward) relative to the corresponding nail forming recess (53). Therefore, as the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves longitudinally through the nail cartridge (37), the central nose (250) and the sliding guides (230, 232, 233) can cooperatively provide horizontal stability to the cartridge (70) at the respective longitudinal positions of each sliding guide (230, 232, 233). It should be understood that from Figure 13 The anvil (18) is intentionally omitted in the view.

[0081] The wedge-shaped slider (210) can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials, including but not limited to metallic materials such as stainless steel (e.g., hardened stainless steel) or titanium. In some forms, the wedge-shaped slider (210) can be manufactured via a metal injection molding (MIM) process. It should be understood that such a MIM process can provide the wedge-shaped slider (210) with improved compressive support and less lateral deflection, and can enable the wedge-shaped slider (210) to provide improved stiffness to the pin cartridge (37) during use (e.g., clamping and / or firing). For example, such a MIM process may include molding the wedge-shaped slider (210) into a single integral part by mixing a liquid MIM raw material of metal powder and binder. The MIM process may also include subjecting the wedge-shaped slider (210) to various types of conditioning, including but not limited to cleaning, thermal debonding, and / or sintering.

[0082] In any case, after the MIM process is completed, all surfaces of the wedge slider (210) may have an initial (e.g., original MIM) surface finish, including the top surface (218) of the base platform (212), the distal upper chamfer (224), and the cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) of the slider guides (230, 232, 233). Such an initial surface finish may be rough, abrasive, and / or granular, and may generally resemble the texture of pitted sandpaper. Therefore, selected surfaces of the wedge slider (210) may be further adjusted to remove the initial surface finish from the selected surfaces and provide a final surface finish that is relatively smoother (e.g., finer, more polished) than the initial surface finish. For example, the top surface (218), the distal upper chamfer (224), and the cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) of the base platform (212) can be machined to remove the initial surface finish from the top surface (218), the distal upper chamfer (224), and the cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) and to provide such a final surface finish to the top surface (218), the distal upper chamfer (224), and the cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247). The final surface finish of the top surface (218), the distal upper chamfer (224), and the cam surface (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) promotes reduced friction and smooth interaction between the top surface (218), the distal upper chamfer (224), and the cam surface (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) and the nail actuator (43), thereby minimizing wear on the portion of the nail actuator (43) that comes into contact with the top surface (218), the distal upper chamfer (224), and the cam surface (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247).

[0083] Although selected surfaces with final surface finishes have been described in the form of the top surface (218) of the base platform (212), the distal upper chamfer (224), and the cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) of the slider guides (230, 232, 233), it should be understood that any other surface of the wedge slider (210) may additionally or alternatively be provided with a final surface finish. For example, the bottom surface (216) may be provided with a final surface finish to promote reduced friction and smooth interaction between the bottom surface (216) and the tray (74).

[0084] In some configurations, the remaining non-selected surfaces of the wedge slider (210) may not be further adjusted, such that the initial surface finish is maintained on the non-selected surfaces during use (e.g., clamping and / or firing). For example, the top surface (220) of the raised platform (214) and / or the flange surface (262) of the center nose (250) may maintain the initial surface finish. As another example, each surface of the wedge slider (210) may maintain the initial surface finish except for the top surface (218) of the base platform (212), the distal upper chamfer (224), and the cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) of the slider guides (230, 232, 233). Therefore, the selected surface of the wedge slider (210) can have a final surface finish, while the non-selected surface of the wedge slider (210) can have an initial surface finish, so that the wedge slider (210) can have at least two different surface finishes.

[0085] Selected and unselected surfaces can be determined based on the specific components of the pin cartridge (37) and / or firing beam (14) that interact with each individual surface of the wedge slider (210). At this point, the final surface finish may be more desirable for certain predetermined components of the wedge slider (210) that interact with the pin cartridge (37) and / or firing beam (14) than for other surfaces. For example, the top surface (218) of the base platform (212), the distal upper chamfer (224) and the cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) of the sliding guides (230, 232, 233) may be selected to receive the final surface finish based on their interaction with the nail driver (43), while the remaining surfaces of the sliding guides (230, 232, 233), the top surface (220) of the raised platform (214) and / or the flange surface (262) of the central nose (250) may not be selected to receive the final surface finish based on their interaction with the housing (70). As another example, the bottom surface (216) may be selected to receive the final surface finish based on its interaction with the tray (74), while the proximal end surface of the wedge slider (210) may not be selected to receive the final surface finish based on its interaction with the push block (80).

[0086] See now Figures 14A to 14D During firing, the wedge-shaped slider (210) moves from... Figure 14A The proximal position shown is driven distally to make upward cam contact with the nail actuator (43), which in turn drives the nail (47) outward through the nail hole (51) and into contact with the nail-forming recess (53) on the inner surface of the anvil (18). More specifically, the distal upper chamfer (224) of the base platform (212) engages the corresponding nail actuator (43) in a cam manner during the distal translation of the wedge-shaped slider (210) to raise the corresponding nail actuator (43) above the tray (74), as shown. Figure 14B As shown. For example, the distal upper chamfer (224) can lift the corresponding nail driver (43) to a first height on the corresponding top surface (218) of the base platform (212) without ejecting the corresponding nail (47) through the corresponding nail hole (51). Therefore, the distal upper chamfer (224) can be considered to "partially" lift the corresponding nail driver (43). Figure 14CAs shown, the top surface (218) then vertically supports the corresponding pin driver (43) during the continued distal translation of the wedge-shaped slider (210). For example, the top surface (218) may temporarily hold the corresponding pin driver (43) at a first height. Then, the cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) of the corresponding slider guides (230, 232) engage the corresponding pin driver (43) in a cam manner during further distal translation of the wedge-shaped slider guides (210) to raise the corresponding pin driver (43) above the corresponding top surface (218) above the base platform (212), as... Figure 14D As shown. For example, cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) can raise the corresponding pin driver (43) to a second height greater than the first height so that the corresponding pin (47) is ejected through the corresponding pin hole (51) and makes contact with the corresponding pin forming recess (53). Therefore, cam surfaces (240, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247) can be considered to "fully" raise the corresponding pin driver (43). It should also be understood that from Figures 14A to 14D The nail-shaped recesses are intentionally omitted in the view (53).

[0087] IV. An exemplary slider with a biasing feature

[0088] In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a wedge-shaped slider that is configured to provide further horizontal stability to the staple cartridge (37) by laterally biasing the wall of the cartridge (70) adjacent to the wedge-shaped slider inward. Figures 15 to 19 Exemplary wedge sliders (310, 410, 510, 610, 710) each providing such functionality are shown. Each of the wedge sliders (310, 410, 510, 610, 710) is similar to the wedge slider (110) and / or wedge slider (210) described above, unless otherwise described below. For example, each of the wedge sliders (310, 410, 510, 610, 710) occupies the same amount of space longitudinally within the staple cartridge (37) as the wedge slider (41, 110, 210), thereby making the wedge sliders (310, 410, 510, 610, 710) substantially interchangeable with the wedge sliders (41, 110, 210).

[0089] A. An exemplary slider having inwardly inclined inner and outer sliding guide rails and an undercut portion.

[0090] Figure 15An exemplary wedge-shaped slider (310) including a base comprising a base platform (312) and a central raised platform (314) extending upward from the base platform (312). In the example shown, the base platform (312) has a substantially flat bottom surface (316) defining a horizontal plane and configured to slide longitudinally along a tray (74) as the wedge-shaped slider (310) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). The base platform (312) also has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (318) parallel to the bottom surface (316), and the raised platform (314) similarly has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (320) parallel to the bottom surface (316). As shown, the top surface (318, 320) is configured to face and / or slidably contact or otherwise engage with the corresponding bottom surface of the corresponding wall (71) of the compartment (70), thereby vertically supporting the corresponding wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (310) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37).

[0091] The wedge-shaped slider (310) also includes a pair of laterally opposed outer slider guides (330) extending upward from the base platform (312), and a pair of laterally opposed inner slider guides (332) extending upward from both the base platform (312) and the raised platform (314). The slider guides (330, 332) may also be referred to as "cam ramps" or "cam wedges". In this type, the slider guides (330, 332) are each laterally inclined or bent inward from the respective top surfaces (318, 320) of the base platform (312) and the raised platform (314), such that the slider guides (330, 332) are oriented obliquely relative to the horizontal plane and relative to the vertical-longitudinal plane. More specifically, each slider rail (330, 332) bends laterally inward with the same angle of inclination (α) relative to the vertical-longitudinal plane (or relative to any plane parallel to it), such that the slider rails (330, 332) on each side of the vertical-longitudinal plane are parallel to each other, and that the wedge-shaped slider rail (310) is substantially symmetrical about the vertical-longitudinal plane (at least with respect to the configuration of the slider rails (330, 332)). In some forms, the angle of inclination (α) may be about 7.5°. Alternatively, any other suitable angle may be used. In the example shown, the wedge-shaped slider (310) includes a pair of laterally opposing recesses (334) extending downward from the top surface (320) of the raised platform (314) adjacent to the corresponding inner slider rail (332) to assist in facilitating the laterally inward bending configuration of the inner slider rail (332). The recesses (334) may also be referred to as “undercuts”. In some types, the recesses (334) may each extend at least partially along the length of the corresponding inner sliding guide (332).

[0092] As shown, the sliding guides (330, 332) are configured to be received within corresponding longitudinally extending slots (73) of the housing (70) and to slidably contact or otherwise engage with corresponding side surfaces of the corresponding wall (71) of the housing (70), thereby horizontally stabilizing the wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (310) moves longitudinally through the pin cartridge (37). For example, the outer and inner sliding guides (330, 332) can suppress lateral inward and / or lateral outward deflection (e.g., bending) of the wall (71). In this respect, the lateral inward bending configuration of the sliding guides (330, 332) of this type is particularly suitable for suppressing lateral outward deflection of the wall (71). For example, the sliders (330, 332) of this type can bias the corresponding wall (71) toward a substantially vertical orientation by counteracting any laterally outward pointing force that may be applied to the wall (71) during use (e.g., clamping and / or firing). In this respect, the tilt angle (α) can be selected to achieve a desired amount of laterally inward pointing force applied to the corresponding wall (71) by each slider (330, 332), which is sufficient to overcome such laterally outward pointing forces while resulting in limited or no laterally inward bending of the corresponding wall (71). Similarly, the sliders (330, 332) can each be attached to the base platform (312) and the raised platform (314) with a predetermined amount of flexibility to minimize the laterally inward bending of the corresponding wall (71) by allowing the sliders (330, 332) to be laterally outwardly elastically pushed when a threshold force is applied to them. Therefore, the sliding guides (330, 332) can be considered to be laterally inwardly elastically biased. In some types, the sliding guides (330, 332) may additionally or alternatively be configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the corresponding upper slot surface of the corresponding slot (73) of the cartridge (70), thereby vertically supporting the upper platform (72) as the wedge-shaped slider (310) moves longitudinally through the stud cartridge (37).

[0093] The wedge-shaped slider (310) also includes a central nose (350) extending upward from the raised platform (314) between the inner slider guides (332). In the example shown, the central nose (350) is laterally spaced from each recess (334) to define the top surface (320) of the raised platform (314).

[0094] As shown, the central nose (350) is configured to be received at least partially within a vertical slot (49) of the staple cartridge (37). In some configurations, the central nose (350) is configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the inner wall (71) of the cartridge body (70), thereby vertically supporting and / or horizontally stabilizing the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (310) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), as described above with respect to the central nose (150, 250). For example, the central nose (350) can suppress lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise be caused by a lateral inward pointing force applied to the inner wall (71) by the corresponding inner slider guide (332). Similarly, the inner sliding guide (332) can suppress the lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the outer wall (71) that would otherwise be caused by a lateral inward pointing force applied to the outer wall (71) by the corresponding outer sliding guide (330). In some configurations, some lateral inward deflection of the inner and / or outer walls (71) may be permitted without deforming the overall external shape of the staple cartridge (37) and, more specifically, without causing misalignment of the staple holes (51) relative to the corresponding staple forming recesses (53). Thus, as the wedge-shaped slider (310) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), the central nose (350) and the sliding guides (330, 332) can cooperatively provide improved horizontal stability to the cartridge (70) at the respective longitudinal positions of each sliding guide (330, 332). It should be understood that from Figure 15 The anvil (18) is intentionally omitted in the view.

[0095] B. An exemplary slider with inwardly inclined inner and outer sliding guide rails.

[0096] Figure 16 An exemplary wedge-shaped slider (410) including a base comprising a base platform (412) and a central raised platform (414) extending upward from the base platform (412). In the example shown, the base platform (412) has a substantially flat bottom surface (416) defining a horizontal plane and configured to slide longitudinally along the tray (74) as the wedge-shaped slider (410) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). The base platform (412) also has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (418) parallel to the bottom surface (416), and the raised platform (414) similarly has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (420) parallel to the bottom surface (416). As shown, the top surface (418, 420) is configured to face and / or slidably contact or otherwise engage with the corresponding bottom surface of the corresponding wall (71) of the compartment (70), thereby vertically supporting the corresponding wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (410) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37).

[0097] The wedge-shaped slider (410) also includes a pair of laterally opposed outer slider guides (430) extending upward from the base platform (412), and a pair of laterally opposed inner slider guides (432) extending upward from both the base platform (412) and the raised platform (414). The slider guides (430, 432) may also be referred to as "cam ramps" or "cam wedges". In this type, the slider guides (430, 432) are each laterally inclined or bent inward from the respective top surfaces (418, 420) of the base platform (412) and the raised platform (414), such that the slider guides (430, 432) are oriented obliquely relative to the horizontal plane and relative to the vertical-longitudinal plane. More specifically, each slider rail (430, 432) bends laterally inward with the same angle of inclination (α) relative to the vertical-longitudinal plane (or relative to any plane parallel to it), such that the slider rails (430, 432) on each side of the vertical-longitudinal plane are parallel to each other, and that the wedge-shaped slider rail (410) is substantially symmetrical about the vertical-longitudinal plane (at least with respect to the configuration of the slider rails (430, 432)). In some types, the angle of inclination (α) may be about 7.5°. Alternatively, any other suitable angle may be used.

[0098] As shown, the sliding guides (430, 432) are configured to be received within corresponding longitudinally extending slots (73) of the cartridge (70) and to slidably contact or otherwise engage with corresponding side surfaces of the corresponding wall (71) of the cartridge (70), thereby horizontally stabilizing the wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (410) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). For example, the outer and inner sliding guides (430, 432) can suppress lateral inward and / or lateral outward deflection (e.g., bending) of the wall (71). In this respect, the lateral inward bending configuration of the sliding guides (430, 432) of this type is particularly suitable for suppressing lateral outward deflection of the wall (71). For example, the sliders (430, 432) of this type can bias the corresponding wall (71) toward a substantially vertical orientation by counteracting any laterally outward pointing force that may be applied to the wall (71) during use (e.g., clamping and / or firing). In this respect, the tilt angle (α) can be selected to achieve a desired amount of laterally inward pointing force applied to the corresponding wall (71) by each slider (430, 432), which is sufficient to overcome such laterally outward pointing forces while resulting in limited or no laterally inward bending of the corresponding wall (71). Similarly, the sliders (430, 432) can each be attached to the base platform (412) and the raised platform (414) with a predetermined amount of flexibility to minimize the laterally inward bending of the corresponding wall (71) by allowing the sliders (430, 432) to be laterally outwardly elastically pushed when a threshold force is applied to them. Therefore, the sliding guides (430, 432) can be considered to be laterally inwardly elastically biased. In some types, the sliding guides (430, 432) may additionally or alternatively be configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the corresponding upper slot surface of the corresponding slot (73) of the cartridge (70), thereby vertically supporting the upper platform (72) as the wedge-shaped slider (410) moves longitudinally through the stud cartridge (37).

[0099] The wedge-shaped slider (410) also includes a central nose (450) extending upward from the raised platform (414) between the inner slider guides (432). In the example shown, the central nose (450) is laterally spaced from each inner slider guide (432) to define the top surface (420) of the raised platform (414). More specifically, the central nose (450) is equidistant from the inner slider guides (432).

[0100] As shown, the central nose (450) is configured to be received at least partially within a vertical slot (49) of the staple cartridge (37). In some configurations, the central nose (450) is configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the inner wall (71) of the cartridge body (70), thereby vertically supporting and / or horizontally stabilizing the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (410) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), as described above with respect to the central nose (150, 250). For example, the central nose (450) can suppress lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise be caused by a lateral inward pointing force applied to the inner wall (71) by the corresponding inner slider guide (432). Similarly, the inner sliding guide (432) can suppress the lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the outer wall (71) that would otherwise be caused by a lateral inward pointing force applied to the outer wall (71) by the corresponding outer sliding guide (430). In some configurations, some lateral inward deflection of the inner and / or outer walls (71) may be permitted without deforming the overall external shape of the staple cartridge (37) and, more specifically, without causing misalignment of the staple holes (51) relative to the corresponding staple forming recesses (53). Thus, as the wedge-shaped slider (410) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), the central nose (450) and the sliding guides (430, 432) can cooperatively provide improved horizontal stability to the cartridge (70) at the respective longitudinal positions of each sliding guide (430, 432). It should be understood that from Figure 16 The anvil (18) is intentionally omitted in the view.

[0101] C. An exemplary slider with an inwardly inclined inner sliding guide rail at the front end.

[0102] Figure 17 An exemplary wedge-shaped slider (510) including a base comprising a base platform (512) and a central raised platform (514) extending upward from the base platform (512). In the example shown, the base platform (512) has a substantially flat bottom surface (516) defining a horizontal plane and configured to slide longitudinally along the tray (74) as the wedge-shaped slider (510) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). The base platform (512) also has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (518) parallel to the bottom surface (516), and the raised platform (514) similarly has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (520) parallel to the bottom surface (516). As shown, the top surface (518, 520) is configured to face and / or slidably contact or otherwise engage with the corresponding bottom surface of the corresponding wall (71) of the compartment (70), thereby vertically supporting the corresponding wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (510) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37).

[0103] The wedge-shaped slider (510) also includes a pair of laterally opposed outer slider guides (530) extending upward from the base platform (512), and a pair of laterally opposed inner slider guides (532) extending upward from both the base platform (512) and the raised platform (514). The slider guides (530, 532) may also be referred to as "cam ramps" or "cam wedges". In this type, the outer slider guide (530) extends substantially straight and upright from the corresponding top surface (518) of the base platform (512), such that the outer slider guide (530) is oriented perpendicularly to the horizontal plane and parallel to the vertical-longitudinal plane. In this type, each inner slider guide (532) is laterally inclined or bent inward from the corresponding top surface (520) of the raised platform (514), such that the inner slider guide (532) is oriented inclined relative to the horizontal plane and relative to the vertical-longitudinal plane. More specifically, each inner sliding guide (532) is laterally curved inward at an angle (α) relative to the vertical-longitudinal plane (or relative to any plane parallel to it), such that each inner sliding guide (532) is oriented obliquely relative to the adjacent outer sliding guide (530), and such that the wedge-shaped sliding guide (510) is substantially symmetrical about the vertical-longitudinal plane (at least relative to the configuration of the sliding guides (530, 532)). In some configurations, the angle (α) may be approximately 7.5°. Alternatively, any other suitable angle may be used.

[0104] As shown, the sliding guides (530, 532) are configured to be received within corresponding longitudinally extending slots (73) of the cartridge (70) and to slidably contact or otherwise engage with corresponding side surfaces of the corresponding wall (71) of the cartridge (70), thereby horizontally stabilizing the wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (510) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). For example, the outer and inner sliding guides (530, 532) can suppress lateral inward and / or lateral outward deflection (e.g., bending) of the wall (71). In this respect, the lateral inward bending configuration of the inner sliding guide (532) of this type is particularly suitable for suppressing lateral outward deflection of the inner wall (71). For example, the inner sliding guide (532) of this type can bias the corresponding inner wall (71) toward a substantially vertical orientation by counteracting any laterally outward pointing force that may be applied to the inner wall (71) during use (e.g., clamping and / or firing). In this respect, the tilt angle (α) can be selected to achieve a desired amount of laterally inward pointing force applied to the corresponding inner wall (71) by each inner sliding guide (532), sufficient to overcome such laterally outward pointing forces while resulting in limited or no laterally inward bending of the corresponding wall (71). Similarly, the inner sliding guides (532) can each be attached to the raised platform (514) with a predetermined amount of flexibility to minimize the laterally inward bending of the corresponding wall (71) by allowing the inner sliding guides (532) to be laterally outwardly elastically pushed when a threshold force is applied to them. Thus, the inner sliding guides (532) can be considered as laterally inwardly elastically biased. In some configurations, the sliding guides (530, 532) may additionally or alternatively be configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the corresponding upper slot surface of the corresponding slot (73) of the cartridge (70), thereby vertically supporting the upper platform (72) as the wedge-shaped slider (510) moves longitudinally through the stud cartridge (37).

[0105] The wedge-shaped slider (510) also includes a central nose (550) extending upward from the raised platform (514) between the inner slider guides (532). In the example shown, the central nose (550) is laterally spaced from each inner slider guide (532) to define the top surface (520) of the raised platform (514). More specifically, the central nose (550) is equidistant from the inner slider guides (532).

[0106] As shown, the central nose (550) is configured to be received at least partially within a vertical slot (49) of the staple cartridge (37). In some configurations, the central nose (550) is configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the inner wall (71) of the cartridge body (70), thereby vertically supporting and / or horizontally stabilizing the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (510) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), as described above with respect to the central nose (150, 250). For example, the central nose (550) can suppress lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise be caused by a lateral inward pointing force applied to the inner wall (71) by the corresponding inner slider guide (532). Similarly, the inner sliding guide (532) can suppress the lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the outer wall (71) that would otherwise be caused by a lateral inward pointing force applied to the outer wall (71) by the corresponding outer sliding guide (530). In some configurations, some lateral inward deflection of the inner and / or outer walls (71) may be permitted without deforming the overall external shape of the staple cartridge (37) and, more specifically, without causing misalignment of the staple holes (51) relative to the corresponding staple forming recesses (53). Thus, as the wedge-shaped slider (510) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), the central nose (550) and the sliding guides (530, 532) can cooperatively provide improved horizontal stability to the cartridge (70) at the respective longitudinal positions of each sliding guide (530, 532). It should be understood that from Figure 17 The anvil (18) is intentionally omitted in the view.

[0107] D. An exemplary slider with a V-shaped base

[0108] Figure 18An exemplary wedge-shaped slider (610) including a base comprising a base platform (612) and a central raised platform (614) extending upward from the base platform (612). In the example shown, the base platform (612) and the raised platform (614) are each bifurcated by a longitudinally extending inverted V-shaped slot (615), such that the laterally opposite halves of the wedge-shaped slider 610 can each be laterally inclined or bent toward each other. In this respect, the base platform (612) has a pair of laterally opposite, substantially flat bottom surfaces (616) that are inclined relative to a horizontal plane (e.g., defined by the lowest lateral inner edges of the bottom surface (616)). More specifically, each bottom surface (616) is laterally inclined with the same angle (θ) relative to the horizontal plane, such that the base platform (612) has a substantially V-shaped cross-section, and such that the wedge-shaped slider (610) is substantially symmetrical about a vertical-longitudinal plane (at least relative to the configuration of the bottom surface (616)). The base platform (612) also has a pair of substantially flat top surfaces (618) that are laterally opposed and parallel to the corresponding bottom surface (616), and the raised platform (614) similarly has a pair of substantially flat top surfaces (620) that are laterally opposed and parallel to the opposing bottom surface (616). The top surfaces (618, 620) are configured to face and / or slidably contact or otherwise engage with the corresponding bottom surface of the corresponding wall (71) of the compartment (70), thereby vertically supporting the corresponding wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (610) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37).

[0109] The wedge-shaped slider (610) also includes a pair of laterally opposed outer slider guides (630) extending upward from the base platform (612), and a pair of laterally opposed inner slider guides (632) extending upward from both the base platform (612) and the raised platform (614). The slider guides (630, 632) may also be referred to as "cam ramps" or "cam wedges". In this type, the slider guides (630, 632) extend substantially straight and upright from the corresponding top surfaces (618, 620) of the base platform (612) and the raised platform (614), such that the slider guides (630, 632) are oriented obliquely relative to the horizontal plane and relative to the vertical-longitudinal plane via the oblique orientation of the bottom surface (616) relative to the horizontal plane. More specifically, due to the laterally inwardly curved configuration of the base platform (612), each slider rail (630, 632) is laterally inwardly curved with the same angle of inclination (α) relative to the vertical-longitudinal plane (or relative to any plane parallel to it), such that the slider rails (630, 632) on each side of the vertical-longitudinal plane are parallel to each other, and that the wedge-shaped slider rail (610) is substantially symmetrical about the vertical-longitudinal plane (at least with respect to the configuration of the slider rails (630, 632)). In some types, the angle of inclination (α) may be about 7.5°. Alternatively, any other suitable angle may be used.

[0110] The sliding guides (630, 632) are configured to be received within corresponding longitudinally extending slots (73) of the cartridge (70) and to slidably contact or otherwise engage with corresponding side surfaces of the corresponding wall (71) of the cartridge (70), thereby horizontally stabilizing the wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (610) moves longitudinally through the pin cartridge (37). For example, the outer and inner sliding guides (630, 632) can suppress lateral inward and / or lateral outward deflection (e.g., bending) of the wall (71). In this respect, the lateral inward bending configuration of the sliding guides (630, 632) of this type is particularly suitable for suppressing lateral outward deflection of the wall (71). For example, the sliders (630, 632) of this type can bias the corresponding wall (71) toward a substantially vertical orientation by counteracting any laterally outward pointing force that may be applied to the wall (71) during use (e.g., clamping and / or firing). In this respect, the tilt angle (θ) and / or tilt angle (α) can be selected to achieve a desired amount of laterally inward pointing force applied to the corresponding wall (71) by each slider (630, 632), sufficient to overcome such laterally outward pointing forces while resulting in limited or no laterally inward bending of the corresponding wall (71). The slot (615) can provide a predetermined amount of flexibility to the laterally opposite halves of the wedge-shaped slider (610) to minimize the laterally inward bending of the corresponding wall (71) by allowing the sliders (630, 632) to be laterally outwardly elastically pushed when a threshold force is applied to them. Therefore, the sliding guides (630, 632) can be considered to be laterally inwardly elastically biased. In some types, the sliding guides (630, 632) may additionally or alternatively be configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the corresponding upper slot surface of the corresponding slot (73) of the cartridge (70), thereby vertically supporting the upper platform (72) as the wedge-shaped slider (610) moves longitudinally through the stud cartridge (37).

[0111] The wedge-shaped slider (610) also includes a central nose (650) extending upward from the raised platform (614) between the inner slider guides (632). In the example shown, the central nose (650) is laterally spaced from each recess (634) to define the top surface (620) of the raised platform (614).

[0112] The central nose (650) is configured to be received at least partially within a vertical slot (49) of the staple cartridge (37). In some configurations, the central nose (650) is configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the inner wall (71) of the cartridge body (70), thereby vertically supporting and / or horizontally stabilizing the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (610) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), as described above with respect to the central nose (150, 250). For example, the central nose (650) can suppress lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise be caused by a lateral inward pointing force applied to the inner wall (71) by the corresponding inner slider guide (632). Similarly, the inner sliding guide (632) can suppress the lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the outer wall (71) that would otherwise be caused by a lateral inward pointing force applied to the outer wall (71) by the corresponding outer sliding guide (630). In some configurations, some lateral inward deflection of the inner and / or outer walls (71) may be permitted without deforming the overall external shape of the staple cartridge (37) and, more specifically, without causing misalignment of the staple holes (51) relative to the corresponding staple forming recesses (53). Thus, as the wedge-shaped slider (610) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), the central nose (650) and the sliding guides (630, 632) can cooperatively provide improved horizontal stability to the cartridge body (70) at the respective longitudinal positions of each sliding guide (630, 632).

[0113] E. An exemplary slider with a bifurcated nose

[0114] Figure 19 An exemplary wedge-shaped slider (710) including a base comprising a base platform (712) and a central raised platform (714) extending upward from the base platform (712). In the example shown, the base platform (712) has a substantially flat bottom surface (716) defining a horizontal plane and configured to slide longitudinally along a tray (74) as the wedge-shaped slider (710) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). The base platform (712) also has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (718) parallel to the bottom surface (716), and the raised platform (714) similarly has a pair of laterally opposed, substantially flat top surfaces (720) parallel to the bottom surface (716). The top surface (718, 720) is configured to face and / or slidably contact or otherwise engage with the corresponding bottom surface of the corresponding wall (71) of the compartment (70), thereby vertically supporting the corresponding wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (710) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37).

[0115] The wedge-shaped slider (710) also includes a pair of laterally opposed outer slider guides (730) extending upward from the base platform (712), and a pair of laterally opposed inner slider guides (732) extending upward from both the base platform (712) and the raised platform (714). The slider guides (730, 732) may also be referred to as "cam ramps" or "cam wedges". In this type, the slider guides (730, 732) are each laterally inclined or bent inward from the respective top surfaces (718, 720) of the base platform (712) and the raised platform (714), such that the slider guides (730, 732) are oriented obliquely relative to the horizontal plane and relative to the vertical-longitudinal plane. More specifically, each slider rail (730, 732) bends laterally inward with the same angle of inclination (α) relative to the vertical-longitudinal plane (or relative to any plane parallel to it), such that the slider rails (730, 732) on each side of the vertical-longitudinal plane are parallel to each other, and that the wedge-shaped slider rail (710) is substantially symmetrical about the vertical-longitudinal plane (at least with respect to the configuration of the slider rails (730, 732)). In some forms, the angle of inclination (α) may be about 7.5°. Alternatively, any other suitable angle may be used. In the example shown, the wedge-shaped slider (710) includes a pair of laterally opposing recesses (734) extending downward from the top surface (720) of the raised platform (714) adjacent to the corresponding inner slider rail (732) to assist in facilitating the laterally inward bending configuration of the inner slider rail (732). The recesses (734) may also be referred to as “undercuts”. In some configurations, the recesses (734) may each extend at least partially along the length of the corresponding inner sliding guide (732).

[0116] The sliding guides (730, 732) are configured to be received within corresponding longitudinally extending slots (73) of the cartridge (70) and to slidably contact or otherwise engage with corresponding side surfaces of the corresponding wall (71) of the cartridge (70), thereby horizontally stabilizing the wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (710) moves longitudinally through the pin cartridge (37). For example, the outer and inner sliding guides (730, 732) can suppress lateral inward and / or lateral outward deflection (e.g., bending) of the wall (71). In this respect, the lateral inward bending configuration of the sliding guides (730, 732) of this type is particularly suitable for suppressing lateral outward deflection of the wall (71). For example, the sliders (730, 732) of this type can bias the corresponding wall (71) toward a substantially vertical orientation by counteracting any laterally outward pointing force that may be applied to the wall (71) during use (e.g., clamping and / or firing). In this respect, the tilt angle (α) can be selected to achieve a desired amount of laterally inward pointing force applied to the corresponding wall (71) by each slider (730, 732), which is sufficient to overcome such laterally outward pointing forces while resulting in limited or no laterally inward bending of the corresponding wall (71). Similarly, the sliders (730, 732) can each be attached to the base platform (712) and the raised platform (714) with a predetermined amount of flexibility to minimize the laterally inward bending of the corresponding wall (71) by allowing the sliders (730, 732) to be laterally outwardly elastically pushed when a threshold force is applied to them. Therefore, the sliding guides (730, 732) can be considered to be laterally inwardly elastically biased. In some types, the sliding guides (730, 732) may additionally or alternatively be configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the corresponding upper slot surface of the corresponding slot (73) of the cartridge (70), thereby vertically supporting the upper platform (72) as the wedge-shaped slider (710) moves longitudinally through the stud cartridge (37).

[0117] The wedge-shaped slider (710) also includes a central nose (750) extending upward from the raised platform (714) between the inner slider guides (732). In the example shown, the central nose (750) is laterally spaced from each recess (734) to define the top surface (720) of the raised platform (714). In this type, the central nose (750) is bifurcated by a longitudinally extending U-shaped slot (751) to facilitate lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the central nose (750).

[0118] The central nose (750) is configured to be received at least partially within a vertical slot (49) of the staple cartridge (37). In some configurations, the central nose (750) is configured to slidably contact or otherwise engage the inner wall (71) of the cartridge (70), thereby vertically supporting and / or horizontally stabilizing the inner wall (71) as the wedge-shaped slider (710) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), as described above with respect to the central nose (150, 250). For example, the central nose (750) can suppress lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the inner wall (71) that would otherwise be caused by a lateral inward pointing force applied to the inner wall (71) by the corresponding inner slider guide (732). Similarly, the inner sliding guide (732) can suppress the lateral inward deflection (e.g., bending) of the outer wall (71) that would otherwise be caused by a lateral inward pointing force applied to the outer wall (71) by the corresponding outer sliding guide (730). In some configurations, a certain degree of lateral inward deflection of the inner and / or outer walls (71) may be permitted without deforming the overall external shape of the staple cartridge (37) and, more specifically, without causing misalignment of the staple holes (51) relative to the corresponding staple forming recesses (53). In this respect, the central nose (750) may be laterally inward bent to accommodate such permitted lateral inward deflection of the inner wall (71). Thus, as the wedge-shaped slider (710) moves longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37), the central nose (750) and the sliding guides (730, 732) can cooperatively provide improved horizontal stability to the cartridge body (70) at the respective longitudinal positions of each sliding guide (730, 732).

[0119] Although wedge-shaped slides of this type (110,210,310,410,510,610,710) are shown and described herein in conjunction with staple cartridges (such as staple cartridges (37)) configured for use with laparoscopic surgical staplers, it should be understood that other types of wedge-shaped slides (110,210,310,410,510,610,710) may be adapted for use with staple cartridges configured for use with non-laparoscopic surgical staplers in open surgery. Examples of such non-laparoscopic surgical staplers are disclosed in the following documents: U.S. Patent Publication 2020 / 0046350, entitled "Firing System for Linear Surgical Stapler," published February 13, 2020; U.S. Patent Publication 2020 / 0046351, entitled "Decoupling Mechanism for Linear Surgical Stapler," published February 13, 2020; U.S. Patent Publication 2020 / 0046353, entitled "Clamping Assembly for Linear Surgical Stapler," published February 13, 2020; and U.S. Application 16 / 537,005, entitled "Linear Surgical Stapler," filed August 9, 2019. The disclosures of these references are incorporated herein by reference.

[0120] V. Exemplary bias feature integrated into the bin

[0121] In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a staple cartridge with improved horizontal stability compared to a staple cartridge (37) by laterally biasing the wall of the cartridge body adjacent to the wedge slider (41). Figure 20 An exemplary staple cartridge (868) providing such functionality is shown. The staple cartridge (868) is similar to the staple cartridge (37) described above, except as otherwise described below. For example, the staple cartridge (37) is configured to be removably mounted into a channel (39) of the lower jaw (16).

[0122] As shown in the figure, the staple cartridge (868) of this example includes a cartridge body (870) having multiple walls (871) and presenting an upper platform (872). The cartridge body (870) also has multiple longitudinally extending slots (873) positioned between the respective walls (871). The cartridge body (870) is coupled to a lower cartridge tray (874). As shown in the figure, a vertical slot (849) is formed to pass through a portion of the staple cartridge (868). Three rows of staple holes (851) are formed to pass through the upper platform (872) on one side of the vertical slot (849), and another set of three rows of staple holes (851) is formed to pass through the upper platform (872) on the other side of the vertical slot (849).

[0123] In this configuration, the cartridge (870) includes a pair of laterally opposing upper protrusions (875) extending laterally outward from opposite sides of the cartridge (870) above the tray (874). Similarly, the tray (874) includes a pair of laterally opposing lower protrusions (876) extending laterally outward from opposite sides of the tray (874). The protrusions (875, 876) are configured to abut or otherwise engage the respective side surfaces of the channels (39) of the lower jaws (16), thereby horizontally stabilizing the wall (871) as the wedge-shaped sliders (not shown) (such as any of the wedge-shaped sliders (41, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710) described above) move longitudinally through the staple cartridge (37). For example, the protrusions (875, 876) can inhibit lateral outward deflection (e.g., bending) of the wall (871). In this respect, the protrusions (875, 876) of this type can bias the corresponding wall (871) toward a substantially vertical orientation by counteracting any lateral outward pointing force that may be applied to the wall (871) during use (e.g., clamping and / or firing). In some types, one or two upper protrusions (875) may be omitted. In some other types, one or two lower protrusions (876) may be omitted.

[0124] VI. An exemplary bin with a bin tray featuring protrusions for reducing interstitial spaces.

[0125] In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a staple cartridge that, compared to a staple cartridge (37), enables a reduction in tissue gap between the upper platform of the staple cartridge and the inner surface of the anvil (18) with staple-forming recesses (53), thereby producing a staple cartridge with more tightly formed staples (47). Figure 21 An exemplary staple cartridge (968) providing such functionality is shown. The staple cartridge (968) is similar to the staple cartridge (37) described above, except as otherwise described below. For example, the staple cartridge (37) is configured to be removably mounted into a channel (39) of the lower jaw (16).

[0126] As shown in the figure, the staple cartridge (968) of this example includes a cartridge body (70) coupled to a lower cartridge tray (974). In this type, the tray (974) includes a pair of laterally opposed outer protrusions (975) extending downward from the lower surface of the tray (974), and a pair of laterally opposed inner protrusions (976) extending downward from the lower surface of the tray (974). In some types, the protrusions (975, 976) may each have a height (H) relative to the lower surface of the tray (974) that is greater than the material thickness (T) of the tray (974). For example, the protrusions (975, 976) may each have a height (H) of about 0.010 inches relative to the lower surface of the tray (974), while the tray (974) may have a material thickness (T) of about 0.007 inches. Alternatively, protrusions (975, 976) of any other suitable height may be used. In any case, the protrusions (975, 976) are configured to abut or otherwise engage the upper surface of the channel (39) of the lower jaw (16), thereby vertically supporting the tray (974) above the upper surface of the channel (39) of the lower jaw (16). For example, compared to the tray (74), the protrusions (975, 976) increase the height of the upper surface of the tray (974) (e.g., wedge-shaped sliders such as wedge-shaped sliders (310) can translate along its longitudinal direction) relative to the upper surface of the channel (39) by the height (H) of the protrusions (975, 976), thereby also increasing the height of the upper platform (72) relative to the upper surface of the channel (39) by the height (H) of the protrusions (975, 976). Therefore, the upper platform (72) can be spaced apart from the inner surface of the anvil (18) with staple-forming recesses (53) by inner and outer tissue gaps (Gi, Go), which are smaller than the height (H) of the protrusions (975, 976) provided in the absence of protrusions (975, 976). For example, the inner tissue gap (Gi) can be about 0.04 inches, and / or the outer tissue gap (Go) can be about 0.055 inches. In this way, the staple cartridge (968) can cooperate with the anvil (18) to produce staples (47) that are more tightly formed than those produced by the staple cartridge (37), and thus can clamp tissue more tightly than those produced by the staple cartridge (37).

[0127] VII. Examples of Combinations

[0128] The following examples illustrate various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein can be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of any claims that may be provided at any time in this patent application or a subsequent filing thereof. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are provided merely for illustrative purposes. It is contemplated that the various teachings herein may be arranged and applied in a variety of other ways. It is also contemplated that some variations may omit certain features mentioned in the following examples. Therefore, none of the aspects or features mentioned below should be considered definitive unless otherwise expressly indicated, for example, by the inventor or a successor of the inventor of interest, at a later date. If any claim set forth in this patent application or a subsequent filing related to this patent application includes additional features beyond those mentioned below, such additional features should not be presumed to have been added for any reason related to patentability.

[0129] Example 1

[0130] A staple driver actuator for a staple cartridge of a surgical suture device, the staple driver actuator comprising: (a) a base having at least one bottom surface, wherein the at least one bottom surface defines a plane, wherein the base defines a longitudinal centerline, wherein the base is configured to slide longitudinally relative to the staple cartridge; and (b) at least one biasing member, wherein the at least one biasing member is laterally outwardly positioned relative to the longitudinal centerline of the base, wherein the at least one biasing member is configured to apply a biasing force on a portion of the staple cartridge in a direction toward the longitudinal centerline of the base.

[0131] Example 2

[0132] According to the nail driver actuator of embodiment 1, the at least one biasing member includes at least one first guide rail extending upward from the base, wherein the at least one first guide rail includes at least one first cam surface, wherein the at least one first cam surface is inclined relative to the plane.

[0133] Example 3

[0134] According to the nail driver actuator of embodiment 2, the at least one first guide rail includes at least one pair of laterally opposed guide rails.

[0135] Example 4

[0136] According to the nail driver actuator of embodiment 3, the at least one pair of laterally opposed guide rails includes a pair of laterally opposed inner guide rails and a pair of laterally opposed outer guide rails.

[0137] Example 5

[0138] According to the nail driver actuator of embodiment 2, it further includes at least one second guide rail extending upward from the base, wherein the at least one second guide rail includes at least one second cam surface, wherein the at least one second cam surface is inclined relative to the plane.

[0139] Example 6

[0140] The nail driver actuator according to claim 5, wherein the at least one second guide rail extends vertically from the top surface of the base.

[0141] Example 7

[0142] According to one or more of embodiments 2 to 6, the nail driver actuator wherein the at least one first guide rail is laterally bent inward from the top surface of the base.

[0143] Example 8

[0144] According to one or more of embodiments 2 to 6, the nail driver actuator wherein the at least one first guide rail extends vertically from the top surface of the base.

[0145] Example 9

[0146] According to the nail driver actuator of embodiment 8, the base is substantially V-shaped.

[0147] Example 10

[0148] According to one or more of embodiments 2 to 9, the nail driver actuator further comprises a recess extending along the at least one first guide rail.

[0149] Example 11

[0150] According to one or more of the embodiments 1 to 10, the nail driver actuator, wherein the at least one biasing member comprises a pair of laterally opposed biasing members.

[0151] Example 12

[0152] According to any one or more of Embodiments 1 to 11, the nail driver actuator wherein the at least one biasing member is laterally inwardly elastically biased.

[0153] Example 13

[0154] According to one or more of embodiments 1 to 12, the nail driver actuator wherein the at least one biasing member is flexibly coupled to the base.

[0155] Example 14

[0156] According to one or more of the nail driver actuators described in Embodiments 1 to 13, the at least one biasing member and the base are integrally formed as a single unit.

[0157] Example 15

[0158] An apparatus comprising: (a) the staple cartridge, wherein the staple cartridge includes a cartridge tray and a cartridge body; and (b) a staple driver actuator according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the staple driver actuator is captured between the cartridge tray and the cartridge body such that the at least one biasing member is configured to apply a biasing force on the cartridge body in a direction toward the longitudinal centerline of the base.

[0159] Example 16

[0160] An apparatus comprising: (a) a jaw defining a longitudinal axis; (b) an anvil movable relative to the jaw; (c) a cartridge capable of being inserted into the jaw, wherein the cartridge includes: (i) a cartridge body; and (ii) at least one nail driver movable relative to the cartridge body; and (d) a nail driver actuator disposed within the cartridge, wherein the nail driver actuator includes at least one biasing member configured to laterally bias at least a portion of the cartridge body toward the longitudinal centerline of the nail driver actuator during translation of the nail driver actuator along the longitudinal axis.

[0161] Example 17

[0162] According to the device of embodiment 16, the at least one biasing member includes at least one guide rail configured to engage the at least one nail driver in a cam manner during translation of the nail driver actuator along the longitudinal axis.

[0163] Example 18

[0164] The device according to any one or more of Embodiments 16 to 17, wherein the at least one biasing member is laterally inwardly elastically biased.

[0165] Example 19

[0166] A method of operating a device including an end actuator having a suture assembly comprising (a) a body extending along a longitudinal axis, (b) at least one staple driver movable relative to the body, and (c) a staple driver actuator, wherein the staple driver actuator includes at least one biasing member, the method comprising: during translation of the staple driver actuator along the longitudinal axis, biasing at least a portion of the body laterally inward toward the longitudinal centerline of the staple driver actuator via the at least one biasing member of the staple driver actuator.

[0167] Example 20

[0168] The method according to embodiment 19 further includes engaging the at least one nail actuator via a cam-like manner through the at least one biasing member of the nail actuator during translation of the nail actuator along the longitudinal axis.

[0169] VIII. Miscellaneous

[0170] Any or more of the teachings, expressions, implementations, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any or more of the teachings, expressions, implementations, examples, etc. described in the following patents: U.S. Patent Application No. END9296USNP1, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Surgical Stapler End Effector Sled Having CartridgeWall Support Feature”; U.S. Patent Application No. END9296USNP2, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Surgical Stapler End Effector Sled Having Tapered Distal End”; U.S. Patent Application No. END9296USNP3, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Surgical Stapler End Effector Sled Having Multiple Surface Finishes”; U.S. Patent Application No. END9296USNP4, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Surgical Stapler End Effector Sled Having Multiple Surface Finishes”; and U.S. Patent Application No. END9296USNP4, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Surgical Stapler End Effector Sled Having Multiple Surface Finishes”. The U.S. Patent Application No. END9296USDP1, entitled “Surgical Stapler End Effector Sled”, filed on the same date as this application, and / or the U.S. Patent Application No. END9296USDP2, entitled “Surgical Stapler End Effector Sled”, filed on the same date as this application. The disclosure of each of these applications is incorporated herein by reference.

[0171] It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc., described herein can be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc., described herein. Therefore, the foregoing teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc., should not be considered in isolation from each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein can be combined will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0172] It should be understood that any patent, patent publication, or other public material allegedly incorporated herein by reference, whether in whole or in part, is incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with any existing definitions, statements, or other public material set forth in this disclosure. Therefore, and to the extent necessary, the disclosures expressly listed herein replace any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or part thereof, allegedly incorporated herein by reference that conflicts with any existing definitions, statements, or other public material set forth herein will be incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with any existing public material.

[0173] The aforementioned devices can be applied to both traditional medical treatments and surgeries performed by medical professionals and robot-assisted medical treatments and surgeries. By way of example only, the various teachings herein can be readily incorporated into robotic surgical systems, such as the DAVINCI system from Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (Sunnyvale, California). TM system.

[0174] Devices of the types described above may be designed for single-use and disposal, or they may be designed for multiple uses. In either or both cases, these types may be repaired for reuse after at least one use. Repair may include any combination of the following steps: disassembling the device, then cleaning or replacing specific parts, and subsequently reassembling. Specifically, some types of devices may be disassembled, and any combination may be used to selectively replace or remove any number of specific parts or portions of the device. While cleaning and / or replacing specific components, some types of devices may be reassembled at a repair facility or by the user prior to surgery for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that device repair can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning / replacement, and reassembly. The use of such techniques and the resulting repaired devices are within the scope of this application.

[0175] By way of example only, the types described herein can be sterilized before and / or after surgery. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container such as a plastic bag or a TYVEK bag. The container and device can then be placed in a radiation field that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, X-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation kills bacteria on the device and in the container. The sterilized device can then be stored in a sterile container for later use. Any other techniques known in the art can also be used to sterilize the device, including but not limited to beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or vapor.

[0176] Various embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, and further improvements to the methods and systems described herein can be achieved by suitable modifications made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. Several such possible modifications have been mentioned, and other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the embodiments, implementations, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, etc., discussed above are illustrative and not essential. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be considered in accordance with the following claims and should be understood as not being limited to the details of the structures and operations shown and described in the specification and drawings.

Claims

1. A staple driver actuator for a staple cartridge of a surgical suture device, the staple driver actuator comprising: (a) A base having at least one bottom surface, wherein the at least one bottom surface defines a plane, wherein the base defines a longitudinal centerline, wherein the base is configured to slide longitudinally relative to the staple cartridge; as well as (b) At least one biasing member, wherein the at least one biasing member is laterally outwardly positioned relative to the longitudinal centerline of the base, wherein the at least one biasing member is configured to apply a biasing force on a portion of the staple cartridge in a direction toward the longitudinal centerline of the base; The at least one biasing member includes at least one first guide rail extending upward from the base, wherein the at least one first guide rail includes at least one first cam surface, wherein the at least one first cam surface is inclined relative to the plane.

2. The nail driver actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one first guide rail includes at least one pair of laterally opposed guide rails.

3. The nail driver actuator according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one pair of laterally opposed guide rails includes a pair of laterally opposed inner guide rails and a pair of laterally opposed outer guide rails.

4. The nail driver actuator of claim 1, further comprising at least one second guide rail extending upward from the base, wherein the at least one second guide rail includes at least one second cam surface, wherein the at least one second cam surface is inclined relative to the plane.

5. The nail driver actuator according to claim 4, wherein, The at least one second guide rail extends vertically from the top surface of the base.

6. The nail driver actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one first guide rail bends laterally inward from the top surface of the base.

7. The nail driver actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one first guide rail extends vertically from the top surface of the base.

8. The nail driver actuator according to claim 7, wherein, The base is essentially V-shaped.

9. The nail driver actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The base also has a recess extending along the at least one first guide rail.

10. The nail driver actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one biasing member comprises a pair of biasing members that are laterally opposed.

11. The nail driver actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one biasing member is laterally inwardly elastically biased.

12. The nail driver actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one biasing member is flexibly coupled to the base.

13. The nail driver actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one biasing member and the base are integrally formed as a single unit.

14. A surgical suture device, comprising: (a) A staple cartridge, wherein the staple cartridge includes a cartridge tray and a cartridge body; as well as (b) The nail driver actuator of claim 1, wherein the nail driver actuator is captured between the bin tray and the bin body such that the at least one biasing member is configured to apply a biasing force on the bin body in a direction toward the longitudinal centerline of the base.

15. A surgical suture device, comprising: (a) Jaws, wherein the jaws define a longitudinal axis; (b) Anvil, the anvil being movable relative to the jaws; (c) a magazine, wherein the magazine is insertable into the jaws, wherein the magazine comprises: (i) warehouse body, and (ii) at least one nail actuator, the at least one nail actuator being movable relative to the housing; and (d) A nail driver actuator disposed within the chamber, wherein the nail driver actuator includes at least one biasing member configured to laterally bias at least a portion of the chamber toward the longitudinal centerline of the nail driver actuator during translation of the nail driver actuator along the longitudinal axis. The at least one biasing member includes at least one first guide rail extending upward from the base of the pin driver actuator, wherein the at least one first guide rail includes at least one first cam surface, wherein the at least one first cam surface is inclined relative to a plane defined by at least one bottom surface of the base.

16. The surgical suture device according to claim 15, wherein, The at least one biasing member includes at least one guide rail configured to engage the at least one nail driver in a cam manner during translation of the nail driver actuator along the longitudinal axis.

17. The surgical suture device according to claim 15, wherein, The at least one biasing member is laterally inwardly elastically biased.

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