METHOD FOR RECOVERING PORTIONS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS FOR REMANUFACTURING AND sustainability

Abstract

A method of recovering a portion of a surgical kit having a surgical instrument includes detaching the surgical instrument, and determining treatment method steps of the surgical kit. In addition, the recycling further includes verifying a reuse capability of a portion of the surgical instrument, and determining a waste stream of the portion of the surgical instrument. The method further includes detaching the portion of the surgical instrument from a remaining portion of the surgical instrument at a predetermined region of the surgical instrument, thereby recovering the portion of the surgical instrument from the waste stream.

Description

Background Art

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0013] Fig. 6A depicts a side view of a surgical instrument including a plurality of selectively removable shields in a connected state attached by a plurality of magnetic members;

[0014] Figure 6B Depicted Fig. 6A A partially exploded side view of a surgical instrument of , wherein the shields are separated from each other in a disconnected state;

[0015] Fig. 7A depicts a side view of a surgical instrument including a magnetic lock assembly in a locked state and a plurality of selectively removable shields retained by the magnetic lock assembly in a connected state;

[0016] Figure 7B Depicted Fig. 7A A partially exploded side view of a surgical instrument of the type shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the magnetic lock assembly is in an unlocked state and the shields are separated from each other in a disconnected state;

[0017] Fig. 8A depicts a perspective view of a surgical instrument including a shield attached by a push pin in a connected state and in electrical communication with a generator;

[0018] Figure 8B Depicted Fig. 8AA perspective view of a surgical instrument with the shields separated from each other in a disconnected state;

[0019] Fig. 9 Describes from Fig. 8A An enlarged perspective view of a shield removal push pin of a surgical instrument;

[0020] Fig.10 Describes the use of Fig. 8A A side view of another push pin for use with a surgical instrument;

[0021] Fig.11A depicts a perspective view of a portion of a surgical instrument with a shroud removed exposing a main circuit board having a plurality of pluggable daughter boards in an installed position;

[0022] Fig. 11B Depicted Fig.11A a perspective view of the portion of the surgical instrument with the shield removed and the plurality of pluggable daughter boards in an uninstalled position;

[0023] Fig.12 depicts a perspective view of a portion of a surgical instrument with a shield removed to reveal a main circuit board including a frangible isolator in an intact state;

[0024] Fig.13 Depicted Fig.12 A perspective view of a main circuit board of a surgical instrument, wherein the main circuit board is in a separated state;

[0025] Fig.14A depicts a cross-sectional view of a surgical instrument including a latch in a latched position and a reservoir member in an operable state;

[0026] Fig. 14B Depicted Fig.14A a cross-sectional view of a surgical instrument comprising a latch in an unlatched position after passing over a reservoir member, thereby rendering the reservoir member inoperable;

[0027] Fig.15 depicts a cross-sectional view of a surgical instrument including a latch configured to be movable to an open position and engage a set of contacts to render data on a storage member unreadable;

[0028] Fig.16 depicts a schematic side view of a circuit assembly of a surgical instrument, the circuit assembly including a memory component connected to a main circuit board via a flexible circuit;

[0029] Fig.17 depicts a schematic side view of another circuit assembly of a surgical instrument, the circuit assembly including a memory component connected to a main circuit board via a pin connector;

[0030] Fig.18 depicts a schematic side view of a circuit assembly of a surgical instrument, the circuit assembly including a memory member having a frangible recess connected to a main circuit board;

[0031] Fig.19A depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of a surgical instrument including a selectively removable shield in an installed position, a support member, and a main circuit board in an operable state;

[0032] Fig.19B Depicted in the uninstalled position Fig.19A a cross-sectional view of the portion of the surgical instrument with the shield removed and the support member connecting the main circuit board to the shield into an inoperable state;

[0033] Fig. 20 depicts a side view of an energy drive system for a surgical instrument having an energy coupling;

[0034] Fig.21 Depicted Fig. 20 An enlarged side view of a portion of an energy drive system;

[0035] Fig. 22 depicts a side view of an energy drive system for a surgical instrument having an energy coupling separating a waveguide from an ultrasonic transducer;

[0036] Fig.23 Depicted Fig. 22 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of an energy drive system;

[0037] Fig.24 depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of another energy drive system;

[0038] Fig.25 depicts a side view of an energy drive system including an ultrasonic transducer assembled with a cover;

[0039] Fig.26A depicts a perspective view of a main body assembly of a surgical instrument with first and second shield portions in a connected state, equipped with strain relief features for retaining a cable, with some portions hidden for greater clarity;

[0040] Fig.26B Depicted Fig.26A a perspective view of a body assembly of the invention with the first and second shield portions in a disconnected state and the strain relief feature releasing the cable, some portions of which are hidden for greater clarity;

[0041] Fig. 27 Describes the use of Figure 2A perspective view of an exemplary cable assembly connected between a medical device and a generator for use with a surgical system of the present invention;

[0042] Fig.28 Depicted Fig. 27 an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a cutaway portion of a cable adapter of a cable assembly;

[0043] Fig.29 Depicted Fig.28 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a cable adapter taken along its centerline, the cable adapter receiving Fig. 27 An exemplary instrument adapter for a medical device of claim 1 in an uncoupled position;

[0044] Fig.30 Describes something like Fig.29 but showing an instrument adapter received by the cable adapter moving from a partially coupled unlocked position to a fully coupled locked position;

[0045] Fig. 30A Depicted along Fig.30 The section line 30A-30A is taken Fig.30 A cross-sectional view of a cable adapter;

[0046] Fig.31 depicts a schematic side view of another exemplary cable assembly receiving another exemplary instrument adapter of a medical device, wherein the instrument adapter is moved from an uncoupled position to a partially coupled unlocked position;

[0047] Fig.32 Describes something like Fig.31 Schematic side view of the cable assembly and instrument adapter of FIG. Fig.31 moving from a partially coupled unlocked position to a fully coupled locked position;

[0048] Fig.33 Depicted are examples of instrument tool assemblies including and Figure 5 A schematic front view of a surgical kit of surgical instruments;

[0049] Fig.34 Depicted Figure 5 The generator and Fig.33 A schematic side view of an instrument tool assembly;

[0050] Fig.35 Depicted Fig.33 A schematic front view of an instrument tool assembly;

[0051] Fig.36A depicts a schematic front view of another example of an instrument tool assembly in a first configuration;

[0052] Fig.36B Depicted in the second configuration Fig.36A A schematic front view of an instrument tool assembly;

[0053] Fig.37 depicts a schematic front view of an exemplary robotic surgical system including a plurality of tools;

[0054] Fig.38 depicts a perspective view of a surgical instrument with a housing of the surgical instrument partially removed to expose retrievable components;

[0055] Fig.39 depicts a top plan view of an exemplary tool including a plurality of removal features;

[0056] Fig.40 Depicted Fig.39 A first exemplary disassembly feature of a tool moves from a first configuration to a second configuration to disassemble Fig.38 a side elevation view of a portion of a tool;

[0057] Fig.41 Depicted Fig.40 The disassembly feature of the device is moved from the third configuration to the fourth configuration to disassemble the device. Fig.38 a side elevation view of a portion of a surgical instrument;

[0058] Fig.42A Depicted in Fig.39 A second exemplary disassembly feature of the tool is to disassemble the parts coupled together in a connected configuration using a mechanical connector prior to disassembly. Fig.38 A schematic cross-sectional view of a first housing portion and a second housing portion of a surgical instrument;

[0059] Fig.42B Describes something like Fig.42A , but in Fig.42A a schematic cross-sectional view of the first and second housing portions after the mechanical connector has been moved to a non-connected configuration by a disassembly feature of the device;

[0060] Fig.43A Depicted is a device coupled together in a connected configuration using a magnetic connector. Fig.38 A schematic cross-sectional view of a first and a second housing portion of a surgical instrument;

[0061] Fig.43B Describes something like Fig.43A , a schematic cross-sectional view of the first and second housing portions but after the magnetic connector has been moved to a non-connected configuration by the third exemplary removal feature;

[0062] Fig.44A Depicts a device coupled together in a connected configuration using an electrical connector Fig.38A schematic cross-sectional view of a first and a second housing portion of a surgical instrument;

[0063] Fig.44B Describes something like Fig.44A , a schematic cross-sectional view of the first and second housing portions but after the electrical connector is moved to a non-connected configuration using a fourth exemplary removal feature;

[0064] Fig.45A Depicted when the fifth exemplary disassembly feature is activated Fig.38 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a housing;

[0065] Fig.45B Describes something like Fig.45A , but in use Fig.45A a schematic cross-sectional view of the portion of the housing after separation of the disassembly features of the housing;

[0066] Fig.46A The sixth exemplary disassembly feature is depicted moving from a first configuration toward a second configuration to separate Fig.38 A schematic cross-sectional view of a fragile portion of a surgical instrument;

[0067] Fig.46B Depicted Fig.46A A schematic cross-sectional view of the disassembled features of the device, but with the fragile portion in a separated state;

[0068] Fig.47 depicts a side elevation view of a plurality of tools positioned on a tool dispenser;

[0069] Fig.48 An exemplary surgical kit including packaging surrounding another exemplary surgical instrument and disassembly features is depicted;

[0070] Fig.49 Depicted Fig.48 Surgical instruments in a disassembled configuration;

[0071] Fig.50 Describes the operation Fig.37 A diagrammatic view of an exemplary method of a robotic surgical system;

[0072] Fig.51A depicts a schematic diagram of an operating room with the surgical suite located within the nonsterile entry room;

[0073] Fig.51B Depicted Fig.51A Schematic diagram of an operating room in which a surgical kit is transported into the sterile area of ​​the operating room;

[0074] Fig.51C Depicted Fig.51ASchematic diagram of an operating room of the type shown in FIG. 1 , wherein a surgical suite is divided into assembled surgical subcomponents, non-surgical subcomponents, and a plurality of disposal bags;

[0075] Fig.51D Depicted Fig.51A Schematic diagram of an operating room with surgical and non-surgical subcomponents broken down into organizationally classified postoperative components;

[0076] Fig.51E Depicted Fig.51A Schematic diagram of an operating room where postoperative components are organized and placed Fig.51A in the corresponding disposal bag of the surgical kit;

[0077] Fig.51F Depicted Fig.51A Schematic diagram of an operating room in which postoperative components and disposal bags are transported to a non-sterile exit room;

[0078] Fig.52 depicts a schematic diagram of an exemplary surgical instrument and a computing device;

[0079] Fig.53 A flow chart depicting a method for determining a disposition instruction for a powered surgical instrument most recently used in a surgical procedure;

[0080] Fig.54A depicts a schematic diagram of a generator having a longer power cord and a surgical instrument having a shorter power cord, wherein the longer power cord is contained within a storage case of the generator;

[0081] Fig.54B Depicted Fig.54A A schematic diagram of a generator and a surgical instrument, wherein a longer power cord extends away from a storage box of the generator;

[0082] Fig.54C Depicted Fig.54A A schematic diagram of a generator and a surgical instrument, wherein a longer power cord and a shorter power cord are coupled together;

[0083] Fig.55 depicts a schematic perspective view of a first exemplary surgical kit, wherein an outer package of the surgical kit is in a closed configuration;

[0084] Fig.56A Depicted Fig.55 A top schematic diagram of a surgical kit of FIG. 1 , but with the outer packaging in a partially opened configuration;

[0085] Fig.56B Depicted include Fig.56A A top schematic diagram of a return package of a surgical kit of a portion of a surgical instrument;

[0086] Fig.57 depicts a schematic perspective view of a second exemplary surgical kit, wherein an outer package of the surgical kit is in a closed configuration;

[0087] Fig.58 Depicted Fig.57 A top schematic diagram of a portion of a surgical kit including a sterile package, a return package, and surgical instruments;

[0088] Fig.59 Describes the use Fig.55 and Fig.57 A diagrammatic view of any exemplary method of a surgical kit;

[0089] Fig.60 depicts an exploded perspective view of an exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0090] Fig.61A Depicted Fig.60 a cross-sectional view of a proximal body of the invention, wherein the first shield and the second shield are decoupled from each other;

[0091] Fig.61B Depicted Fig.60 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of Fig.61A actuating the first shield and the second shield toward each other;

[0092] Fig.61C Depicted Fig.60 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of Fig.61A The first shield and the second shield are coupled together so that the latch assembly is in a locked configuration;

[0093] Fig.61D Depicted Fig.60 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of Fig.61A The first shield and the second shield are coupled together, wherein the user is actuating Fig.61C a latch assembly in an unlocked configuration;

[0094] Fig.61E Depicted Fig.60 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of Fig.61A the first shield and the second shield are initially decoupled from each other;

[0095] Fig.62 depicts an exploded perspective view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0096] Fig.63 depicts an exploded perspective view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0097] Fig.64A Depicted Fig.63 an enlarged perspective view of a coupling assembly of a proximal body of the embodiment of the present invention in an uncoupled configuration;

[0098] Fig.64B Depicted along Fig.64A an enlarged cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly in a coupled configuration taken along section line 64B-64B;

[0099] Fig.65A depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of an alternative coupling assembly in an uncoupled configuration;

[0100] Fig.65B Depicts the coupled configuration Fig.65A An enlarged cross-sectional view of a coupling assembly;

[0101] Fig.66 depicts an enlarged exploded perspective view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0102] Fig.67A Depicted Fig.66 an enlarged cross-section of a coupling assembly of a proximal body of the invention in an uncoupled configuration;

[0103] Fig.67B Depicts the coupled configuration Fig.67A An enlarged cross-sectional view of a coupling assembly;

[0104] Fig.68A depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of an alternative coupling assembly in an uncoupled configuration;

[0105] Fig.68B Depicts the coupled configuration Fig.68A An enlarged cross-sectional view of a coupling assembly;

[0106] Fig.69A depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein, wherein the proximal body is assembled with electrical components housed therein;

[0107] Fig.69B Depicted Fig.69A an enlarged cross-sectional view of a proximal body of the invention, wherein the proximal body is disassembled and the electrical components are biased away from the shield of the proximal body;

[0108] Fig.70A Depicted is still with the dip pan placed above the exemplary Fig.69A The electrical components in the Fig.69A A cross-sectional view of a proximal body shield;

[0109] Fig.70BDepicts and improperly placed Fig.70A The dip pan Fig.69A The electrical components are coupled Fig.70A A cross-sectional view of a shield;

[0110] Fig.71A Depicted Fig.70A A cross-sectional view of a shield having a Fig.69A The electrical components are decoupled and placed Fig.70A above the dipping pan;

[0111] Fig.71B Depicted with Fig.69A The electrical components are decoupled and appropriately placed Fig.70A The dip pan Fig.70A A cross-sectional view of a shield;

[0112] Fig.72A depicts an enlarged side elevation view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0113] Fig.72B Depicted Fig.72A an enlarged side elevation view of a proximal body of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein a scanning device is scanning a bar code of the proximal body;

[0114] Fig.72C Depicted Fig.72A an enlarged side elevation view of the proximal body of the invention with a hatch door of the proximal body removed;

[0115] Fig.73A depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0116] Fig.73B Depicted Fig.73A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the magnet is suspended above the proximal body;

[0117] Fig.73C Depicted Fig.73A an enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal body of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the hatch door of the proximal body is removed;

[0118] Fig.74A depicts an enlarged side elevation view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0119] Fig.74B Depicted Fig.74A an enlarged side elevation view of a proximal body of the invention, wherein a heat source is suspended above the proximal body;

[0120] Fig.74C Depicted Fig.74Aan enlarged side elevation view of the proximal body of the invention with a hatch door of the proximal body removed;

[0121] Fig.75A depicts an enlarged side elevation view of another exemplary proximal body that may be readily incorporated into any of the surgical instruments shown herein;

[0122] Fig.75B Depicted Fig.75A an enlarged side elevation view of a proximal body of the invention, wherein the interactive device is hovering above the proximal body;

[0123] Fig.75C Depicted Fig.75A an enlarged side elevation view of a proximal body of the invention, wherein a power cord is separated from the proximal body;

[0124] Fig.76A depicts a perspective view of a processing bag assembly in a closed configuration;

[0125] Fig.76B Depicted in open configuration Fig.76A A perspective view of a processing bag assembly;

[0126] Fig.76C Depicted in open configuration Fig.76A A perspective view of a processing bag assembly with surgical components loaded therein;

[0127] Fig.76D Depicts the closed configuration Fig.76A A perspective view of a processing bag assembly, wherein Fig.76C of surgical components loaded therein;

[0128] Fig.77 depicts a schematic diagram of another exemplary processing bag assembly;

[0129] Fig.78 depicts a schematic diagram of another exemplary processing bag assembly;

[0130] Fig.79 depicts a schematic diagram of another exemplary processing bag assembly;

[0131] Fig.80 depicts a schematic diagram of another exemplary processing bag assembly;

[0132] Fig.81 depicting a flow chart of any exemplary closing cycle that may be used with any of the surgical instruments described herein;

[0133] Fig.82 depicts a schematic diagram of an exemplary surgical visualization system including an imaging device and a surgical device;

[0134] Fig.83Describes the Fig.82 A schematic diagram of an exemplary control system for use with a surgical visualization system;

[0135] Fig.84 A flow chart depicting an exemplary method for determining a restorability of at least one feature of a surgical instrument;

[0136] Fig.85 A flow chart depicting an exemplary evaluation method for determining the restorability of at least one feature of a surgical instrument;

[0137] Fig.86 A flow chart depicting an exemplary evaluation method for determining the restorability of at least one feature of a surgical instrument;

[0138] Fig.87 A flow chart depicting an exemplary evaluation method for determining the restorability of at least one feature of a surgical instrument;

[0139] Fig.88 A flow chart depicting an exemplary evaluation method for determining the restorability of at least one feature of a surgical instrument;

[0140] Fig.89 depicts a perspective view of an evaluation and cleaning port that can be used to evaluate the restorability of at least one feature of a surgical instrument and then clean the at least one feature of the surgical instrument;

[0141] Fig.90A Depicted Fig.89 a cross-sectional view of an evaluation and cleaning port with an end effector partially inserted;

[0142] Fig.90B Depicted Fig.89 a cross-sectional view of the evaluation and cleaning port with the end effector further inserted;

[0143] Fig.91 depicts a perspective view of an end effector sheath;

[0144] Fig.92A Depicted Fig.91 A cross-sectional view of an end effector sheath of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the end effector is adjacent to the inlet of the sheath;

[0145] Fig.92B Depicted Fig.91 A cross-sectional view of an end effector sheath of FIG. 1 , wherein the end effector is inserted into the sheath;

[0146] Fig.93 depicts a top plan view of a surgical kit package; and

[0147] Fig.94 Depicted Fig.93 A perspective view of a removable cleaning kit of a surgical kit packaging.

[0148] The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the present technology may be performed in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily shown in the drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the present technology and, together with the description, explain the principles of the technology; however, it should be understood that the technology is not limited to the precise arrangements shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0149] The following description of certain examples of the present technology should not be used to limit the scope of the present technology. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments and advantages of the present technology will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is by way of example, one of the best ways contemplated for implementing the present technology. As will be appreciated, the technology described herein can have other different and obvious aspects, all of which do not depart from the present technology. Therefore, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[0150] It should also be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, implementations, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, implementations, examples, etc. described herein. Therefore, the following teachings, expressions, implementations, examples, etc. should not be considered isolated from each other. According to the teachings herein, various suitable ways in which the teachings herein can be combined will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0151] For clarity of the disclosure, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are defined herein relative to a human or robotic operator of a surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to a location of an element that is closer to a human or robotic operator of a surgical instrument and further away from a surgical end effector of a surgical instrument. The term "distal" refers to a location of an element that is closer to a surgical end effector of a surgical instrument and further away from a human or robotic operator of a surgical instrument. In addition, the terms "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "above," and "below" are used relative to the embodiments and associated drawings, and are not intended to unnecessarily limit the invention described herein.

[0152] I. Examples of Surgical Systems

[0153] for Figure 1, a computer-implemented interactive surgical system (100) includes one or more surgical systems (102) and a cloud-based system (e.g., a cloud (104) that may include a remote server (113) coupled to a storage device (105)). Each surgical system (102) of this example includes at least one surgical hub (106) in communication with the cloud (104), which may include the remote server (113). In one example, as Figure 1 As shown in , the surgical system (102) includes a visualization system (108), a robotic system (110), and a handheld intelligent surgical instrument (112), which are configured to communicate with each other and / or with a hub (106). In some aspects, the surgical system (102) may include M hubs (106), N visualization systems (108), O robotic systems (110), and P handheld intelligent surgical instruments (112), where M, N, O, and P are integers greater than or equal to 1. In any case, any suitable combination of the features provided below may be incorporated into an exemplary surgical system such as surgical system (100) and used in an operating room to perform a desired surgical procedure, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein.

[0154] Figure 2 An example of a surgical system (102) for performing a surgical procedure on a patient lying flat on an operating table (114) in a surgical operating room (116) is depicted. A robotic system (110) is used as part of the surgical system (102) during a surgical procedure. The robotic system (110) includes a surgeon's console (118), a patient side cart (120) (surgical robot), and a surgical robot hub (122). While the surgeon observes the surgical site through the console (118), the patient side cart (120) can manipulate at least one removably coupled surgical tool (117) through a minimally invasive incision in the patient's body using any of a plurality of surgical arms (123). An image of the surgical site can be obtained through a medical imaging device (124), which can be manipulated by the patient side cart (120) to orient the imaging device (124). The robotic hub (122) can be used to process the image of the surgical site for subsequent display to the surgeon through the console (118).

[0155] Other types of robotic systems may be readily adapted for use with the surgical system (102). Various examples of robotic systems and surgical tools suitable for use with the present disclosure are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 611,339, entitled “RobotAssisted Surgical Platform,” filed on December 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0156] Various examples of cloud-based analytics performed by the cloud (104) and suitable for use with the present disclosure are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 611,340, entitled “Cloud-Based Medical Analytics,” filed on December 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0157] In various aspects, the imaging device (124) includes at least one image sensor and one or more optical components. Suitable image sensors include, but are not limited to, charge coupled device (CCD) sensors and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensors. In various aspects, the imaging device (124) is configured for use in minimally invasive surgery. Examples of imaging devices suitable for the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, arthroscopy, angioscope, bronchoscope, choledochoscope, colonoscope, cytoscope, duodenoscope, enteroscope, esophago-duodenoscope (gastroscope), endoscope, laryngoscope, nasopharyngeal-renal endoscope, sigmoidoscope, thoracoscope and hysteroendoscope. Some aspects of spectral and multispectral imaging are described in more detail in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 611,341, entitled “Interactive Surgical Platform”, filed on December 28, 2017, entitled “Advanced Imaging Acquisition Module”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0158] During any surgical operation, operating room and surgical equipment need to be strictly sterilized. The strict sanitation and sterilization conditions required in "surgical room" (i.e., operating room or treatment room) require the highest possible sterility of all medical devices and equipment. A part of this sterilization process is the need to sterilize anything that contacts the patient or penetrates the sterile field. It should be understood that the sterile field can be considered to be a designated area that is considered to be free of microorganisms, such as in a tray or in a sterile towel, or the sterile field can be considered to be the area around the patient prepared for surgical operation. The sterile field can include the team members who are scrubbed and appropriately dressed, as well as all equipment and fixtures in the area.

[0159] In addition to introducing any features of the surgical system (100), furniture, or fixtures into the sterile field that requires sterilization, removing these features from the sterile field may cause additional difficulties, particularly when these features may have contacted or are presumed to have contacted the patient, including any tissue and / or fluid associated with the surgical procedure. Such contamination of these features from the patient generally requires special consideration during or after the surgical procedure, particularly when handling these features for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing as needed. In one example, the surgical system (100) and / or the health care professionals associated with the surgical procedure may be prepared to address such handling, as discussed in more detail below.

[0160] like Figure 2 As shown in , a main display (119) is positioned in the sterile field to be visible to an operator at an operating table (114). In addition, a visualization tower (111) is positioned outside the sterile field. The visualization tower (111) includes a first non-sterile display (107) and a second non-sterile display (109) that are separated from each other. A visualization system (108) guided by a hub (106) is configured to be able to coordinate information flow to operators inside and outside the sterile field using displays (107, 109, 119). For example, the hub (106) can enable the visualization system (108) to display a snapshot of a surgical site recorded by an imaging device (124) on a non-sterile display (107) or (109) while maintaining a real-time feed of the surgical site on the main display (119). For example, a snapshot on a non-sterile display (107) or display (109) can allow a non-sterile operator to perform diagnostic steps related to a surgical procedure.

[0161] In one aspect, the hub (106) is also configured to be able to route diagnostic input or feedback entered by a non-sterile operator at the visualization tower (111) to a primary display (119) within the sterile field, where the diagnostic input or feedback can be viewed by a sterile operator at the operating table. In one example, the input can be a modified form of a snapshot displayed on a non-sterile display (107) or display (109), which can be routed to the primary display (119) via the hub (106).

[0162] refer to Figure 2, the surgical instrument (112) is used in a surgical procedure as part of the surgical system (102). The hub (106) can also coordinate information flowing to a display of the surgical instrument (112), such as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 611,341, entitled "Interactive Surgical Platform," filed on December 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Diagnostic input or feedback entered by a non-sterile operator at the visualization tower (111) can be routed by the hub (106) to a surgical instrument display (115) within the sterile field, where the operator of the surgical instrument (112) can view the diagnostic input or feedback. Exemplary surgical instruments suitable for use with surgical system (102) are described, for example, in U.S. provisional patent application serial number 62 / 611,341, entitled “Surgical Instrument Hardware,” filed on December 28, 2017, entitled “Interactive Surgical Platform,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0163] Reference now Figure 3 , the hub (106) is depicted as communicating with a visualization system (108), a robotic system (110), and a handheld intelligent surgical instrument (112). The hub (106) includes a hub display (135), an imaging module (138), a generator module (140), a communication module (130), a processor module (132), and a storage array (134). In certain aspects, as Figure 3 As shown, the hub (106) also includes a smoke evacuation module (126), a suction / irrigation module (128) and / or an operating room mapping module (133).

[0164] During surgery, energy application to tissue for sealing and / or cutting is often associated with smoke evacuation, suction of excess fluid, and / or flushing of tissue. Fluid lines, power lines, and / or data lines from different sources often become tangled during surgery. Solving this problem during surgery can waste valuable time. Disconnecting a line may require disconnecting the line from its corresponding module, which may require resetting the module. The hub modular housing (136) provides a unified environment for managing power lines, data lines, and fluid lines, which reduces the frequency of tangles between such lines.

[0165] See also Figure 3 to Figure 4, aspects of the present disclosure are presented as a hub modular housing (136) that allows modular integration of generator modules (140), smoke exhaust modules (126), and suction / irrigation modules (128). The hub modular housing (136) also facilitates interactive communication between the modules (140, 126, 128). Figure 4 As shown in , the generator module (140) may be a generator module having integrated monopolar components, bipolar components, and ultrasonic components supported in a single housing unit (139) that is slidably inserted into the hub modular housing (136). Figure 4 As shown in , the generator module (140) can be configured to be connected to a monopolar device (146), a bipolar device (147), and an ultrasonic device (148). Alternatively, the generator module (140) can include a series of monopolar generator modules, bipolar generator modules, and / or ultrasonic generator modules that interact through the hub modular housing (136). The hub modular housing (136) can be configured to facilitate the insertion of multiple generators and interactive communication between the generators docked into the hub modular housing (136) so that the generators will act as a single generator.

[0166] Figure 5 One form of a generator (150) and various surgical instruments (152, 154, 156) that can be used therewith is shown, wherein the surgical instrument (152) is an ultrasonic surgical instrument (152), the surgical instrument (154) is an RF electrosurgical instrument (154), and the multifunctional surgical instrument (156) is a combined ultrasonic / RF electrosurgical instrument (156). The generator (150) may be configurable for use with a variety of surgical instruments. According to various forms, the generator (150) may be configurable for use with different surgical instruments of different types, including, for example, an ultrasonic surgical instrument (152), an RF electrosurgical instrument (154), and a multifunctional surgical instrument (156) that integrates RF energy and ultrasonic energy delivered simultaneously from the generator (150). Although Figure 5 The generator 150 of the present example is shown as being separate from the surgical instruments (152, 154, 156), but the generator (150) may alternatively be integrally formed with any of the surgical instruments (152, 154, 156) to form an integrated surgical system. The generator (150) includes an input device (158) located on a front panel of the generator (150) console. The input device (158) may include any suitable device that generates signals suitable for programming the operation of the generator (150). The generator (150) may be configured for wired or wireless communication.

[0167] The generator (150) of this example is configured to be capable of driving a plurality of surgical instruments (152, 154, 156). An example of these surgical instruments is an ultrasonic surgical instrument (152), and includes a handpiece (160), an ultrasonic transducer (162), an axis assembly (164), and an end effector (166). The end effector (166) includes an ultrasonic blade (168) and a clamping arm (170) acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic transducer (162). The handpiece (160) includes a trigger (172) for operating the clamping arm (170) and a combination of toggle buttons (173, 174, 175) for powering the ultrasonic blade (168) and driving the ultrasonic blade or other functions. The toggle buttons (173, 174, 175) can be configured to be capable of powering the ultrasonic transducer (162) with the generator (150).

[0168] The generator (150) is also configured to drive another example of a surgical instrument (154). The RF electrosurgical instrument (154) includes a handpiece (176), a shaft assembly (178), and an end effector (180). The end effector (180) includes electrodes located in clamping arms (181, 182) and returned through an electrical conductor portion of the shaft assembly (178). The electrodes are coupled to and powered by a bipolar energy source within the generator (150). The handpiece (176) includes a trigger (183) for operating the clamping arms (181, 182) and an energy button (184) for actuating an energy switch to power the electrodes in the end effector (180).

[0169] The generator (150) is also configured to be capable of driving a multifunctional surgical instrument (156). The multifunctional surgical instrument (156) includes a handpiece (185), an axis assembly (186), and an end effector (188). The end effector (188) has an ultrasonic blade (190) and a clamping arm (192). The ultrasonic blade (190) is acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic transducer (162). The handpiece (185) includes a trigger (194) for operating the clamping arm (192) and a combination of a switch button (195, 196, 197) for energizing the ultrasonic blade (190) and driving the ultrasonic blade or other functions. The switch button (195, 196, 197) can be configured to be capable of energizing the ultrasonic transducer (162) with the generator (150) and energizing the ultrasonic blade (190) with a bipolar energy source also contained in the generator (150). It should be understood that handpieces (160, 176, 185) may be replaced with robotically controlled instruments for incorporating one or more aspects of surgical instruments (152, 154, 156). Thus, the term "handpiece" should not be limited to this context and handheld use.

[0170] As used throughout this specification, the term "wireless" and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communication channels, etc. that can transmit data through a non-solid medium using modulated electromagnetic radiation. The term does not mean that the associated devices do not contain any wires, although in some aspects they may not. The communication module may implement any of a variety of wireless or wired communication standards or protocols, including but not limited to Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 series), WMAX (IEEE 802.16 series), IEEE 802.20, Long Term Evolution (LTE), Ev-DO, HSPA+, HSDPA+, HSUPA+, EDGE, GSM, GPRS, CDMA, TDMA, DECT, Bluetooth, and its Ethernet derivatives, and any other wireless and wired protocols designated as 3G, 4G, 5G and above. The computing module may include multiple communication modules. For example, the first communication module may be dedicated to shorter range wireless communications such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and the second communication module may be dedicated to longer range wireless communications such as GPS, EDGE, GPRS, CDMA, WiMAX, LTE, Ev-DO, etc.

[0171] As used herein, a processor or processing unit is an electronic circuit that performs operations on some external data source (usually a memory or some other data stream). The term is used herein to refer to a central processing unit (Central Processing Unit) in a system or computer system (especially a System on a Chip (SoC)) that combines multiple specialized "processors".

[0172] As used herein, a system on a chip or system on a chip (SoC or SOC) is an integrated circuit (also referred to as an "IC" or "chip") that integrates all the components of a computer or other electronic system. It may include digital, analog, mixed signal, and often radio frequency functions - all on a single substrate. A SoC integrates a microcontroller (or microprocessor) with advanced peripherals such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), a Wi-Fi module, or a coprocessor. A SoC may or may not include built-in memory.

[0173] As used herein, a microcontroller or controller is a system that integrates a microprocessor with peripheral circuits and memory. A microcontroller (or MCU for a microcontroller unit) can be implemented as a small computer on a single integrated circuit. It can be similar to a SoC; an SoC may include a microcontroller as one of its components. A microcontroller may include one or more core processing units (CPUs) as well as memory and programmable input / output peripherals. Program memory in the form of ferroelectric RAM, NOR flash memory, or OTP ROM, as well as a small amount of RAM, is also often included on the chip. Compared to microprocessors used in personal computers or other general-purpose applications consisting of various discrete chips, microcontrollers can be used for embedded applications.

[0174] As used herein, the term controller or microcontroller may be a stand-alone IC or chip device that interfaces with peripheral devices. This may be a link between two components of a computer or a controller on an external device that manages the operation of (and connections to) the device. Modular devices include modules that can be received within a surgical hub (e.g., such as a combination of Figure 3 The invention relates to a surgical device or instrument that can be connected to various modules so as to be connected or paired with a corresponding surgical hub. Modular devices include, for example, intelligent surgical instruments, medical imaging devices, suction / irrigation devices, smoke evacuators, energy generators, ventilators, insufflators, and displays. The modular devices described herein can be controlled by control algorithms. The control algorithm can be executed on the modular device itself, on a surgical hub paired with a specific modular device, or on both the modular device and the surgical hub (e.g., via a distributed computing architecture). In some examples, the control algorithm of the modular device controls the device based on data sensed by the modular device itself (i.e., by sensors in, on, or connected to the modular device). The data can be related to the patient being operated on (e.g., tissue properties or insufflation pressure) or the modular device itself (e.g., the rate at which the knife is advanced, the motor current, or the energy level). For example, the control algorithm of a surgical suturing and cutting instrument can control the rate at which the motor of the instrument drives its knife through the tissue according to the resistance encountered by the knife as it advances.

[0175] II. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Incorporating Selectively Detachable Shields

[0176] In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a surgical instrument (1000) similar to any one or more of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156), the surgical instrument including a component capable of delivering ultrasonic energy, RF energy, or both ultrasonic energy and RF energy, the component being easily opened to provide access to internal components for separation into separate waste streams using minimal tools (such as no additional tools). Surgical procedures are typically performed in a sterile field, as described above. The sterile field is free of microorganisms, and the surgical team can reduce the chance of infection by ensuring that only sterilized equipment and tools are used in the sterile field. The surgical instrument is sterilized and packaged in a sterile container, which is then brought into the sterile field. A health care professional may need to disassemble the surgical instrument in the sterile field by hand or with a tool disposed in a sterile container after the surgical procedure. For example, a torque wrench for assembling a surgical instrument may have additional features for disassembling the surgical instrument. The surgical instrument includes additional features that facilitate disassembly and removal of internal components. These additional features help to selectively decompose the internal components so that the components can be placed in a separate waste stream. These separate waste streams are predetermined based on the material of the component or the use of the component. For example, the waste streams may include recycling, disposal, or refurbishment. Components placed in the disposal waste stream will be disposed of in a landfill. Components placed in the recycling waste stream may be further separated, shredded, and melted into basic components. Components placed in the refurbishment waste stream will be cleaned, tested, repaired, and reassembled in another surgical instrument. For example, the plastic and metal components of the shield may be separated into one waste stream for disposal, the heavy metals from the integrated circuit may be separated into a second waste stream for recycling, and the ultrasonic transducer may be separated into a third waste stream for refurbishment.

[0177] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B An example of a surgical instrument (1000) configured to treat tissue is shown, which is similar to surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156). Surgical instrument (1000) can be configured to deliver ultrasonic energy, radio frequency ("RF") energy, or both. In addition, the surgical instrument can be configured to be handheld or equipped with a corresponding portion of a robotic arm (see Fig. 8A ). Similar to surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156), surgical instrument (1000) includes a body assembly (1010), a shaft assembly (1020), and an end effector (1030). A shaft (1022) of shaft assembly (1020) extends distally from body assembly (1010) to end effector (1030). Surgical instrument (1000) differs from surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156) in that surgical instrument (1000) includes a body assembly (1010) that is configured to be easily disassembled to expose at least one of a plurality of internal components for removal and disposal into a separate waste stream.

[0178] Similar to surgical instrument (152), the surgical instrument (1000) of this example is configured to deliver ultrasonic energy. The body assembly (1010) surrounds a portion of an energy drive system (1040) and a portion of a circuit assembly (1050). In this version, the energy drive system (1040) includes an ultrasonic transducer (1042), a waveguide (1044), and an ultrasonic blade (1046). The energy drive system (1040) may also include a battery (1048) or a generator (150) configured to supply energy (see Figure 5 ). The ultrasonic transducer (1042) is positioned proximally within the body assembly (1010) and extends distally to a waveguide (1044). The waveguide (1044) extends distally through the shaft assembly (1020) to an ultrasonic blade (1046). The circuit assembly (1050) includes a main circuit board (1052), a memory component (1054), and a controller (1056). The circuit assembly (1050) may be connected to a device such as a battery 1048 or a generator 150 (see Figure 5 ) is electrically connected to a power source and is operably connected to an energy drive system (1040).

[0179] The body assembly (1010) includes a plurality of selectively removable shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018). The shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) are configured to provide support for the energy drive system (1040), the shaft assembly (1020), and the circuit assembly (1050). The shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) additionally block access to a portion of the energy drive system (1040) and a portion of the circuit assembly (1050). As shown, the shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) include a first shield portion (1012), a second shield portion (1014), a third shield portion (1016), and a fourth shield portion (1018), but may include any number of shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) that prevent access to the circuit assembly (1050) and the energy drive system (1040). This configuration of shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) is merely an example and is not intended to unnecessarily limit the present invention. Each shield portion (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) is removably attached to another shield portion (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) at the shield edge (1002). The shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) are mated together with the shield coupling (1004) at the shield edge (1002). The shield coupling (1004) in a connected state connects two adjacent shield edges (1002) during normal operation of the surgical instrument (1000). A magnetic fastener in the form of a shield coupling (1004) includes a first magnetic member (1006) and a second magnetic member (1008). One of the first magnetic member (1006) or the second magnetic member (1008) includes a rare earth magnet or an electromagnet. The other of the first or second magnetic members (1006, 1008) includes a rare earth magnet, an electromagnet, or a ferromagnetic metal. Ferromagnetic metals include, but are not limited to, iron, cobalt, or nickel. The first magnetic member (1006) is attracted to the second magnetic member (1008) by a magnetic field (MF). The magnetic field (MF) includes sufficient force to maintain adjacent shield edges (1002) of the shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) in a connected state during operation, but allows a user to transition the shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) to a disconnected state after operation (see Figure 6B ). The user may remove shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) to provide access to portions of the energy drive system (1040) and portions of the circuit assembly (1050) in a disconnected state (see Figure 6BOnce accessed, portions of the energy drive system (1040) and portions of the circuit assembly (1050) may be disposed of in separate waste streams. It should be noted that the shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) may include gripping features (1024) positioned on the exterior of the shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) to facilitate opening of the shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018).

[0180] The shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) further include a plurality of alignment features (1026) configured to enable each shield portion (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) to be aligned with an adjacent shield portion (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018). The alignment features (1026) facilitate transitioning the shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) from a connected state to a disconnected state (see Figure 6B ) and prevent the shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) from combining when removed from each other. In addition, when assembling the surgical instrument (1000), the alignment feature (1026) facilitates the alignment of the first magnetic member (1006) and the second magnetic member (1008). In one example, the alignment feature (1026) includes a key (1028) positioned on one of the first shield portion (1012) or the second shield portion (1014) and a keyway (1032) positioned on the other of the first shield portion (1012) or the second shield portion (1014). The key (1028) is sized to be able to slide within the keyway (1032). The key (1028) and the keyway (1032) include complementary shapes, such as a circle, a rectangle, a square, or a triangle. The shroud edges (1002) may overlap to allow the key (1028) to mate with the keyway (1032), or at least one of the key (1028) or the keyway (1032) may extend beyond one of the shroud edges (1002) to mate with the other of the key (1028) or the keyway (1032).

[0181] Figure 6BThe surgical instrument (1000) is shown after transitioning to a disconnected state. In the disconnected state, the shields (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) are separated from each other. For example, the third shield (1016) is manually moved horizontally away from the first shield (1012). The second shield (1014) is manually moved vertically away from the first shield (1012). The fourth shield (1018) is manually moved obliquely away from the first shield (1012), thereby separating the shield coupling (1004). The alignment feature (1026) promotes the movement of the transducer shield in the horizontal path, the second shield (1014) in the vertical path, and the fourth shield (1018) in the oblique path. The removal of the shields (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) promotes access to at least a portion of the energy drive system (1040) and at least a portion of the circuit assembly (1050).

[0182] Fig. 7AA form of surgical instrument (1100) is shown, which is similar to surgical instrument (1000), unless otherwise described herein. Surgical instrument (1100) is shown in a connected state. Similar to surgical instrument (1000), surgical instrument (1100) includes a main body assembly (1110), an axis assembly (1120) and an end effector (1130). The main body assembly (1110) is positioned proximally relative to the axis assembly (1120). The axis assembly (1120) includes an axis (1122) extending distally from the main body assembly (1110) to the end effector (1130). The end effector (1130) includes an ultrasonic blade (1146). The main body assembly (1110) includes a plurality of shield portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) that are configured to prevent access to a portion of the energy drive system (1140) and a portion of the circuit assembly (1150). The shield portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) are connected at complementary shield edges (1102) of the shield portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) by a magnetic fastener in the form of a magnetic lock assembly (1134). The magnetic lock assembly (1134) includes a first magnetic member (1106), a second magnetic member (1108), a magnetic lock (1135), and a lock key (1136). The magnetic lock assembly (1134) differs from the shield coupling (1004) of the surgical instrument (1000) in that the magnetic lock assembly (1134) is configured to prevent the shield portion (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) from being inadvertently moved away from the other shield portion (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) without further action by the user. The first magnetic member (1106) and the second magnetic member (1108) may include rare earth magnets, electromagnets, or ferromagnetic metals. The magnetic lock (1135) may also be configured as a solenoid (not shown). The solenoid may include an electromagnet and a ferromagnetic metal rod. The solenoid may be positioned on a shield portion (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118), wherein a strike plate (not shown) has a bore or hole on another shield portion (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118). The ferromagnetic rod is positioned within the strike plate and holds the shield portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) in a connected state. The solenoid may be configured to enable the ferromagnetic rod to move laterally, longitudinally, or obliquely relative to the shield edge (1102) and into the strike plate. In some versions, the circuit assembly (1150) may be configured to be electrically connected to the magnetic lock (1135). Each shield edge (1102) of the shield portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) may be equipped with a magnetic lock (1135) controlled by a circuit assembly (1150). The circuit assembly (1150) in these versions is capable of switching all magnetic locks (1135) from a locked state to an unlocked state and vice versa.

[0183] The magnetic lock assembly (1134) also includes a lock key (1136), which in this example can be separated from the magnetic lock (1134), and the magnetic members (1106, 1108) are separated and separated from the magnetic lock (1134). In the version of the present disclosure, the lock key (1136) removes electricity from the electromagnet, thereby removing the magnetic field, which stops the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic member (1106) and the second magnetic member (1108) when the lock key (1136) is removed from the magnetic lock assembly (1134). In an alternative, the lock key (1136) can be inserted into the magnetic lock assembly (1134) to convert the magnetic lock (1135) from a locked state to an unlocked state. The lock key (1136) can remove electricity by shorting a circuit (not shown), opening a circuit (not shown), or by energizing a switch (not shown).

[0184] In some versions, the detent (1136) transitions the magnetic lock (1135) from a locked state to an unlocked state by physically moving one of the first or second magnetic members (1106, 1108) away from the other of the first or second magnetic members (1106, 1108), thereby reducing the magnetic attraction between the first and second magnetic members (1106, 1108). In this type of version, the magnetic lock (1135), the first magnetic member (1106), and the second magnetic member (1108) are adjacent to each other. This reduced magnetic attraction or lack of magnetic attraction allows a user to manually separate the shield portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118).

[0185] Figure 7B The surgical instrument (1100) is shown in a disconnected state after the magnetic lock assembly (1134) has been transitioned from a locked state to an unlocked state. The body assembly also includes a gripping feature (1124) configured to facilitate gripping of the shield portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) to separate the shield portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) from each other; and an alignment feature (1126), such as a key (1128) and a keyway (1132), which are configured to assist in aligning the shield portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) as they are removed from each other. In this version, the alignment feature is detached and separated from the magnetic lock assembly (1134) and / or the magnetic members (1108, 1106). In some versions, alignment feature (1126) is incorporated into magnetic lock assembly (1134) and / or magnetic members (1108, 1106).

[0186] FIG. 8A to FIG. 10A form of a surgical instrument (1200) configured to deliver electrical energy to treat tissue is shown, which is similar to the surgical instrument (1000). The surgical instrument (1200) shown is configured to be mounted to a corresponding portion of a robotic arm, but may also be configured as FIG. 6A to FIG. 7B The handheld surgical instrument shown. The surgical instrument (1200) is shown in electrical communication with the generator (150) (see Figure 5 ). Generator (150) is configured to supply energy to surgical instrument (1200). Similar to surgical instrument (1000), surgical instrument (1200) includes a body assembly (1210), a shaft assembly (1220), and an end effector (1230). Shaft assembly (1220) extends distally from body assembly (1210) to end effector (1230).

[0187] The body assembly (1210) is configured to be disassembled to expose a portion of the energy drive system (1240) and a portion of the circuit assembly (1250). The body assembly (1210) includes a plurality of shield portions (1212, 1214) having an upper shield portion (1212) and a lower shield portion (1214), the upper shield portion and the lower shield portion being configured to be coupled together using shield couplings in the form of push pins (1204, 1260). The push pins (1204, 1260) may be constructed of nylon or some other material having elastic properties known in the art. More specifically, the push pin (1204) is a two-piece push pin (1204), while the push pin (1260) is a single-piece push pin (1260). The two-piece push pin (1204) of this example includes a handle (1206), a handle head (1208) (see Fig. 9 ), Pin (1234) (See Fig. 9 ) and pin header (1236) (see Fig. 9 The one-piece push pin (1260) of this example includes a handle (1262) and a plurality of resilient ribs (1264) positioned along the handle (1262) (see Fig.10 ) and a handle head (1266) positioned at the proximal end of the handle (1262). The upper shield portion (1212) defines an upper bore (1216), and the lower shield portion (1214) defines a lower bore (1218). Fig. 8AAn upper bore (1216) is shown aligned with a lower bore (1218) and fitted with a push pin (1204, 1260) in a connected state. The push pin (1204) forces the upper shield portion (1212) against the lower shield portion (1214) to maintain the upper shield portion (1212) against the lower shield portion (1214) in the connected state. It should be noted that the surgical instrument (1200) may include all one type of push pin (1204, 1206) or more than one type of push pin (1204, 1206). In the present version, the surgical instrument (1200) includes both a two-piece push pin (1204) and a single-piece push pin (1206).

[0188] The two-piece push pin (1204) is installed by first inserting the stem (1206) through the upper bore (1216) and the lower bore (1218) so that the stem head (1208) rests on a surface adjacent the upper bore (1216). Prior to insertion, the stem (1206) is held in an unexpanded state sized to fit within the upper and lower bores (1216, 1218). The pin (1234) is pressed into the bore of the stem (1206) until the pin head (1236) is located on top of the stem head (1208). In the installed position, the distal portion of the stem (1206) is expanded by the pin (1234) to an expanded state and has a diameter greater than the upper and lower bores (1216, 1218). The expanded handle (1206) pulls the upper shield portion (1212) axially toward the lower shield portion (12140). Installing the pin (1234) distally into the handle (1206) causes the distal portion of the handle (1206) to have a larger outer diameter than the distal portion of the handle (1206) before the pin (1234) was installed into the handle (1206).

[0189] The one-piece push pin (1260) is installed by pressing the top of the knob (1266) while guiding the distal end of the knob (1262) into the upper and lower bores (1216, 1218). The one-piece push pin (1260) is installed so that the knob (1266) is positioned on a first side of the upper bore (1216) and the proximal rib (1264) is positioned on the distal side of the lower bore (1218), so that the push pin (1260) prevents the upper shield portion (1212) from being removed from the lower shield portion (1214).

[0190] Other types of push pins (not shown) may be configured to enable manual operation without the need for additional tools. These other types operate similarly to blind rivets, but have an actuator (not shown), a spring (not shown), a pin (not shown), and a handle (not shown). The actuator moves as a result of the user translating the pin within the handle (not shown). The handle is reduced in outer diameter so that the push pin can be retracted through the upper and lower bores (1216, 1218) and the upper and lower shield portions (1216, 1218) transition from a connected state to a disconnected state.

[0191] Figure 8B The surgical instrument (1200) is shown in a disconnected state, wherein the push pins (1204, 1260) are removed from the upper and lower bores (1216, 1218). In the disconnected state, the body assembly (1210) provides access to a portion of the energy drive system (1240) and a portion of the circuit assembly (1250) for removal and disposal in separate waste streams. The upper and lower shield portions (1212, 1214) may include a gripping feature (1224) to assist in removing the upper shield portion (1212) from the lower shield portion (1214), and an alignment feature (1226) to provide alignment of the upper and lower bores (1216, 1218). Alignment features (1226) such as a key (1228) positioned on one of the upper and lower shroud portions (1212, 1214) and a keyway (1232) positioned on the other of the upper and lower shroud portions (1212, 1214).

[0192] Fig. 9 Push pin (1204) is shown being removed from upper and lower shroud portions (1212, 1214) by a torque wrench (1270) including a forked member (1272). Push pin (1204) may be constructed of nylon or some other material known in the art having elastic properties.

[0193] Fig.10 A one-piece push pin (1260) is shown that includes a handle (1262) and a plurality of resilient ribs (1264) positioned along the handle (1262) and a knob (1266) positioned at the proximal end of the handle (1262). The push pin (1260) is also constructed of nylon or some other material known in the art that has resilient properties. The push pin (1260) can also be removed by applying torque to the push pin (1260) by prying the knob (1266) with a fork member (1272).

[0194] III. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Incorporating Selectively Separable Circuit Assemblies

[0195] In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a surgical instrument comprising a component capable of delivering ultrasonic energy, RF energy, or both ultrasonic energy and RF energy, the component being easy to open so that the internal components can be separated into a separate waste stream using minimal tools (such as no tools required) in a sterile field. These surgical instruments are configured to remain intact during normal use, but are convenient for the disassembly and / or selective decomposition of the internal components. One such internal component is a circuit assembly, which is configured to be separated into separate parts with different characteristics by one or both hands of a user. The separated parts of the circuit assembly are placed in a predetermined separate waste stream. These waste streams include, but are not limited to, recycling, disposal, or renovation.

[0196] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B A portion of a surgical instrument (1300) is shown, which is similar to surgical instrument (1000), unless otherwise described herein. The surgical instrument (1300) includes a shaft assembly (not shown) extending distally from a body assembly (1310) to an end effector (not shown). The body assembly (1310) includes a plurality of shield portions (1312) similar to the surgical instrument (1000). The top shield portion (not shown) has been removed from the lower shield portion (1312) to expose a portion of the circuit assembly (1350). The circuit assembly (1350) includes a main circuit board (1352) and a plurality of daughter boards (1354). The lower shield portion (1312) provides support for the circuit assembly (1350) and the energy drive assembly (1340). The main circuit board (1352) includes an integrated circuit (1358) that is configured to provide electrical communication between a memory component (1356), a controller (1360), an input (not shown), and an output (not shown). In some versions, the daughter board (1354) includes a memory component (1356) and a controller (1360). In this version, the main circuit board (1352) includes an integrated controller (1360) and the daughter board (1354) includes a memory component (1356). Fig.11A Daughter board (1354) is shown inserted into main circuit board (1352) in an installed position, communicating with controller (1360) via integrated circuit (1358).

[0197] Fig. 11BA daughterboard (1354) is shown with a memory component (1356) shown in an unmounted position. The memory component (1356) in the unmounted position is unplugged from the main circuit board (1352). The memory component (1356) may include an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory ("EEPROM"), an erasable programmable read-only memory ("EPROM"), a programmable read-only memory ("PROM"), a read-only memory ("ROM"), a random access memory ("RAM"), or other suitable forms of memory for circuit components known in the art. The daughterboard (1354) includes a plurality of pins (1362) configured to be removably coupled to corresponding receptacles (1364) defined by the main circuit board (1352). The placement of the pins (1362) and the receptacles (1364) may be reversed, i.e., the pins (1362) are located on the main circuit board (1352) and the receptacles (1364) are located on the daughterboard (1354). The pins (1362) provide electrical communication between the daughter board (1354) and the main circuit board (1352). The daughter board (1354) can be removed from the main circuit board (1352) for disposal in a waste stream separate from the main circuit board (1352). For example, the daughter board (1354) can be refurbished and reused, and the main circuit board (1352) can be recycled, although such allocation is merely an example and is not intended to unnecessarily limit the present invention.

[0198] Figure 12 to Figure 13 A portion of surgical instrument (1400) is shown that is similar to surgical instrument (1300), except as otherwise described herein. Similar to surgical instrument (1300), surgical instrument (1400) includes circuit assembly 1450 that is configured to be disassembled into separate parts for disposal in separate waste streams. Fig.12 A portion of a main body assembly (1410) is shown with a top shield portion (not shown) removed to expose a circuit assembly (1450). The circuit assembly (1450) includes a main circuit board (1452) and a daughter board (1454). The main circuit board (1452) and the daughter board (1454) are shown in a complete state. The surgical instrument (1400) differs from the surgical instrument (1300) in that the daughter board (1454) is fixedly coupled to the main circuit board (1452), and the main circuit board (1452) includes fragile isolators (1462) that are configured to connect a first circuit portion (1464) to a second circuit portion (1466) in an operable state. The fragile isolators (1462) may include perforations, continuous holes, weakened portions, or any other separation features known in the art that will facilitate disconnecting the circuit board along a predetermined path. In an operable state, the frangible isolator (1462) allows electrical communication along the circuit assembly (1450), such as electrical communication across the frangible isolator (1462).

[0199] Fig.13 A circuit assembly (1450) is shown in a separated state, wherein a first circuit portion (1464) is separated from a second circuit portion (1466). The first circuit portion (1464) can be separated from the second circuit portion (1466) by breaking the frangible separator (1462), such as with one or both hands of a user. The first circuit portion (1464) can include components that require the first circuit portion (1664) to be placed in a waste stream separate from the second circuit portion (1466). For example, the daughterboard (1454) can have a storage member (1456) that is not suitable for repair or recycling that is placed in a disposal waste stream, and the second circuit portion (1466) can include an integrated circuit (1458) containing heavy metals that require repair or recycling, although such an arrangement is merely an example and is not intended to unnecessarily limit the present invention.

[0200] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B A portion of a surgical instrument (1500) is shown, which is similar to surgical instrument (1400), except as otherwise described herein. The body assembly (1510) of this example includes a first shield portion (1512), a second shield portion (1514), and a latch (1516). The first shield portion (1512) provides support for a portion of an energy drive system (1540) and a portion of a circuit assembly (1550). The second shield portion (1514) blocks access to the circuit assembly (1550). With the latch (1516) in a fixed position, the second shield portion (1514) is removably attached to the first shield portion (1512). Fig.14A A circuit assembly (1550) is shown with a memory component (1556) in an operable state, wherein the latch (1516) is in a closed position and the second shield portion (1514) is connected to the first shield portion (1512). The memory component (1556) as described above may include RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or any other suitable form of memory known in the art.

[0201] Fig. 14BThe circuit assembly (1550) is shown in an inoperable state after the latch (1516) is transformed to an open position. The latch (1516) includes a rare earth magnet that uses a magnetic field to cause an interruption of an electrical signal or magnetic pulse that destroys or disrupts the memory within the memory member (1556). The latch (1516) is transformed from a fixed position to an unfixed position. Before the second shield portion (1514) is fully opened, the latch (1516) passes in close proximity to the memory member (1556), thereby rendering the data contained in the memory member (1556) unreadable. For example, the latch (1516) may have a Hall effect sensor with an integrated magnet that allows the circuit assembly (1550) to initiate a sequence that renders the data unreadable, such as a reset, overwrite, or disrupt, which erases or destroys the memory. In other versions, the latch (1516) includes a magnet that passes a magnetic field close to the memory member (1556), which erases or destroys the memory.

[0202] Fig.15A portion of a surgical instrument (1600) is shown, which is similar to surgical instrument (1500), except as otherwise described herein. Similar to surgical instrument (1500), surgical instrument (1600) includes a body assembly (1610) having a first shield portion (1612) connected to a second shield portion (1614) by a latch (1616). The body assembly (1610) accommodates, supports, and prevents access to a circuit assembly (1650). The circuit assembly (1650) includes a memory component (1656), a main circuit board (1652), and a flexible circuit (1654). The memory component (1656) as described above may include a memory, such as a RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or any other suitable form of memory known in the art. The memory component (1656) and / or the controller (1660) are electrically connected to the main circuit board (1652) via the flexible circuit (1654). The flexible circuit (1654) allows the memory component (1656) to be separated and placed separately from the main circuit board (1652). In some versions, the memory component (1656) can be directly connected to the main circuit board (1652) by soldering or using a plug and receptacle. The surgical instrument (1600) includes a latch (1616) that is in electrical communication with the memory component (1656) via a cable (1618). The latch (1616) is capable of transitioning from a closed position to an open position, thereby transitioning the first and second shield portions (1612, 1614) from a connected state to a disconnected state. In addition, the latch (1616) in the open position engages a set of contacts that render the data stored on the memory member (1656) unreadable, such as by electrically resetting, rewriting, or scrambling the memory, by providing electrical communication with one of the following reset elements: an integrated capacitor that supplies voltage or current to the memory member (1656), a current inverter that applies a reverse current (i.e., reverse polarity), a power source that can generate an electrical pulse that damages the data stored on the memory member (1656), and / or another memory (not shown) that releases unstable data (i.e., noise) to render the memory member (1656) inoperable. When using the opposite polarity to destroy the memory member (1656), a voltage greater than the voltage used in normal operation can be applied to the negative terminal or ground instead of the positive terminal at a low amperage. For example, 10 volts supplied at a low amperage is supplied to the ground connection of the memory member (1656) that uses 6 volts during normal operation, although such a configuration is merely an example and is not intended to unnecessarily limit the present invention.

[0203] Fig.16A circuit assembly (1750) is shown for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600). The circuit assembly (1750) includes a main circuit board (1752), a memory component (1756), a controller (not shown), and a flexible circuit (1754). The memory component (1756) as described above may include a memory such as a RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or any other suitable form of memory known in the art. The memory component (1756) is positioned within a body assembly (not shown) that accommodates, supports, and prevents access to the circuit assembly (1750). The flexible circuit (1754) includes a failure region (1762) that allows removal of the memory component (1756) and / or destruction of the flexible circuit (1754) during a sterilization process. In this version, the failure region (1762) includes a conductive epoxy (1764) that bridges the failure region (1762) to provide electrical communication between the memory component (1556) and the main circuit board (1752). When the circuit assembly (1750) is heated to a temperature suitable for sterilizing the surgical instrument (1700), the conductive epoxy (1764) is destroyed, such as by melting, causing the flexible circuit (1754) to separate into one or more parts at the failure region (1762). The flexible circuit (1754) in the separated state does not allow electrical communication between the memory component (1756) and the main circuit board (1752). In other versions, the failure region (1762) is perforated or otherwise weakened so that the memory component (1756) can be manually removed from the main circuit board (1752) with one or two hands of the user. Additionally, the controller may be attached to the main circuit board (1752) via a flexible circuit (1754) having a deactivation area (1762) for easy removal and placement in a waste stream separate from the main circuit board (1752). In other versions, the controller may similarly be attached with a flexible circuit (1754) including a deactivation area (1762). Once the memory component (1756) and / or controller are removed, they are prevented from being reused in another circuit assembly.

[0204] Fig.17A circuit assembly (1850) is shown for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600). The circuit assembly (1850) is similar to the circuit assembly (1750), unless otherwise specified herein. The circuit assembly (1850) includes a main circuit board (1852), an integrated circuit (1858), a memory component (1856), and a controller (1860). The circuit assembly (1850) differs from the circuit assembly (1750) in that the memory component (1856) is attached to the main circuit board (1852) by a pin connector (1868). The pin connector (1868) is a rigid connector made of a metal that can be welded. The pin connector (1868) is directly welded into a pin hole (1870). The pin hole (1870) is defined by the main circuit board (1852). The pin connector (1868) includes a failure region (1866). The failure region (1866) allows for manual removal of the memory component (1856) before or during the sterilization process. As shown, the failure region (1866) includes a conductive epoxy (1864) that bridges the gap in the pin connector (1868). During the sterilization process, the conductive epoxy (1864) reaches its predetermined melting temperature and is reduced, such as by melting, when heated to a temperature suitable for sterilizing a surgical instrument (such as any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600)). Once the conductive epoxy (1864) melts, the two portions of the pin connector (1868) separate, so that the memory component (1856) detached from the main circuit board (1852) does not allow the integrated circuit (1858) to communicate with the controller (1860).

[0205] In other versions, deactivation region (1866) comprises a portion of pin connector (1868) having a reduced diameter relative to the remainder of pin connector (1868). Deactivation region (1866) provides a location from which memory element (1856) may be disconnected from main circuit board (1852) by one or both hands of a user with reduced force (relative to the force required to remove memory element (1856) in the absence of deactivation region (1866), thereby rendering the device inoperable and / or providing for separate disposal in a waste stream separate from other components of main circuit board (1852).

[0206] Fig.18A circuit assembly (1950) is shown for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 54, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600). The circuit assembly (1950) is similar to the circuit assembly (1850) unless otherwise specified herein. The circuit assembly (1950) includes a main circuit board (1952), a memory component (1956), an integrated circuit (1958), and a controller (1960). The circuit assembly (1950) differs from the circuit assembly (1850) in that the main circuit board (1952), the controller (1960), and / or the memory component (1956) include a frangible notch (1962) defining a weakened section on the main circuit board (1952), the controller (1960), and / or the memory component (1956). In this version, the memory component (1956) includes a first memory portion (1964), a second memory portion (1966), and a frangible notch (1962). The first memory portion (1964) is separated from the second memory portion (1966) by the frangible notch (1962). The second memory portion (1966) is rigidly attached to the main circuit board (1952). The first memory portion (1964) is removably coupled to the second memory portion (1966) so that if the main circuit board (1952) is removed from the main assembly (not shown), the first memory portion (1964) is configured to engage a portion of the main assembly and break the memory component (1956), thereby making the memory component (1956) inoperable. In this regard, the frangible notch (1962) is configured to prevent the memory component (1956) from being completely removed from the main circuit board (1952) for reuse. Additionally, if a user attempts to install the circuit assembly (1950) into a sterilized or incorrect instrument or inadvertently loads the circuit assembly (1950) into a sterilized or incorrect instrument, a portion of the body assembly engages the first reservoir portion (1964) and damages the reservoir member (1956) by separating the first reservoir portion (1964) from the second reservoir portion (1966), thereby preventing reuse.

[0207] Fig.19AA portion of a surgical instrument (2000) is shown, which is similar to surgical instrument (1500), except as otherwise described herein. The body assembly (2010) includes a first shield portion (2012), a second shield portion (2014), and one or more support members (2018). The first shield portion (2012) provides support for a portion of an energy drive system (2040) and a portion of a circuit assembly (2050). The second shield portion (2014) is attached to the first shield portion (2012) in a connected state. The support member (2018) is a rigid member including a first support end (2020) and a second support end (2022). The first support end (2020) is attached to one of the first shield portion (2012) or the second shield portion (2014), and the second support end (2022) is attached to the circuit assembly (2050). The support member (2018) of this example passes through a bore (2024) defined by the circuit assembly (2050) and is attached to the other of the first shield portion (2012) or the second shield portion (2014). The support member (2018) includes a second support end (2022) having a snap, such as a barb or a hook, configured to be installed one-way into the bore (2024). In this regard, the term "one-way installation" refers to the snap being configured to be easily installed without damage, but causing damage when removed. The circuit assembly (2050) includes a main circuit board (2052), a memory member (2056) and a controller (2060), and is shown in an operable state. The circuit assembly (2050) of this example also includes a fragile separator (2062) adjacent to the support member (2018). Also in this example, the second shield portion (2014) is configured to be able to transition to a disconnected state by moving the second shield portion (2014) relative to the first shield portion (2012), such as by moving the second shield portion (2014) horizontally. However, such movement is merely an exemplary direction and is not intended to unnecessarily limit the present invention. As another example, the second shield portion (2014) may be removed vertically, obliquely, or in another direction relative to the first shield portion (2012).

[0208] Fig.19BA portion of a surgical instrument (2000) is shown in which a second shield portion (2014) is removed from a first shield portion (2012). A support member (2018) moves away from the first shield portion (2012) along with the second shield portion (2014). A circuit assembly (2050) is held in place by the first shield portion (2012). Transition of the support member (2018) away from the first shield portion (2012) causes damage to the circuit assembly (2050) to render the circuit assembly (2050) inoperable by breaking the circuit assembly (2050) along a frangible separator (2062), thereby preventing reuse of the circuit assembly (2050) and / or providing for placement in a separate waste stream.

[0209] IV. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Incorporating Selectably Detachable Energy Drive Systems

[0210] In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a surgical instrument, which includes components that can deliver ultrasonic energy, RF energy, or both ultrasonic energy and RF energy. It may be desirable that these surgical instruments can be easily opened so that the internal components can be separated into a separate waste stream using a minimum tool (such as without a tool) in a sterile field. These surgical instruments are configured to remain intact during normal use, but are convenient to the disassembly and / or selective decomposition of internal components. A type of such internal component is an energy drive system, which is configured to be removed, separated by a hand or two hands of a user and placed in a separate waste stream. These waste streams include, but are not limited to, recycling, disposal, or renovation.

[0211] Figure 20 to Figure 21A portion of an energy drive system (2140) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700) is shown. The energy drive system (2140) includes an ultrasonic transducer (2142), a waveguide (2144), an energy coupling (2148), and an ultrasonic scalpel (not shown). The ultrasonic transducer (2142) extends along a longitudinal axis (LA), and the energy coupling (2148) is configured to be able to removably couple the ultrasonic transducer (2142) to the waveguide (2144). The waveguide (2144) further extends along the longitudinal axis (LA) and is operably attached to the ultrasonic scalpel. The energy coupling (2148) has a fragile partition (2150) that can be broken by one or both hands of a user. The fragile partition (2150) may include a drill hole, a serration, a notch, or any other weakening portion for breaking in a predetermined manner. Once the energy coupling member (2148) is broken, the ultrasonic transducer (2142) cannot be engaged with the waveguide (2144) without further repair. For example, an additional fragile partition (2150) may be positioned between the waveguide (2144) and the ultrasonic blade. The ultrasonic transducer (2142) can thus be sterilized, refurbished, and reused in a similar surgical instrument, while the waveguide (2144) and the ultrasonic blade are placed in another waste stream, such as disposal or recycling.

[0212] Figure 22 to Figure 23Another portion of an energy drive system (2240) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700) is shown, which is similar to the energy drive system (2140) unless otherwise described herein. Similar to the energy drive system (2140), the energy drive system (2240) includes an ultrasonic transducer (2242), a waveguide (2244), an energy coupling member (2248), and an ultrasonic scalpel (not shown). The energy drive system (2240) differs from the energy drive system (2140) in that the energy drive system (2240) includes an energy coupling member (2248) that is configured to be able to decouple and recouple the waveguide (2244) from the ultrasonic transducer (2242). The energy coupling member (2248) in this example is in the form of a bushing (2250) that is configured to be threaded between the ultrasonic transducer (2242) and the waveguide (2244). The bushing (2250) includes an internal bushing thread (2252) and an external bushing thread (2254). The bushing (2250) also includes a torque feature (2256) in the form of a hexagonal head that is configured to allow a user to tighten the bushing (2250) to a specified torque in the ultrasonic transducer (2242), such as by using a torque wrench (not shown) disposed in a sterile package (not shown). As shown, the external bushing thread (2254) is screwed into the internal transducer thread (2258), and the external waveguide thread (2260) is screwed into the internal bushing thread (2252), but this configuration may be reversed in other examples. In addition, the bushing (2250) may include two sets of internal threads, or two sets of external threads, which will cooperate with complementary threads located on the waveguide (2244) and the ultrasonic transducer (2242). For example, the external bushing threads (2254) are threadedly coupled with the internal waveguide threads (not shown) and the external transducer threads (not shown). The bushing (2250) is configured to be able to transmit ultrasonic energy between the ultrasonic transducer (2242) and the waveguide (2244). The bushing (2250) of this example is constructed of a material that is less durable than the waveguide (2244) and / or the ultrasonic transducer (2242), so that the waveguide (2244) and / or the ultrasonic transducer (2242) are retained, thereby eliminating the preference for refurbishing the waveguide (2244) and / or the ultrasonic transducer (2242).

[0213] Fig.24A portion of an energy drive system (2340) is shown that includes another energy coupling (2348) to be incorporated into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700). The energy coupling (2348) is similar to the energy coupling (2248), unless otherwise described herein. Similar to the energy coupling (2248), the energy coupling (2348) is capable of threadingly coupling the waveguide (2344) to the ultrasonic transducer (2342). The energy coupling (2348) more specifically includes a bushing assembly (2350) having a threaded insert (2352) and a bushing (2354).

[0214] The waveguide (2344) includes a proximal end having an external waveguide thread (2360), and the ultrasonic transducer (2343) includes an internal transducer surface (2368). The threaded insert (2352) of this example is composed of a helically wound wire, but may alternatively be a solid machined part. The threaded insert (2352) includes an internal insert thread (2358) configured to engage the external waveguide thread (2360) and an external insert thread (2362) configured to engage the internal bushing thread (2364). The bushing (2354) includes an internal bushing thread (2364) configured to be threaded around the insert external thread (2362). The bushing (2354) also includes an external bushing surface (2366) having a smooth bore, the size of which is suitable for an interference fit relative to the internal transducer surface (2368). Bushing (2354) is press-fit within ultrasonic transducer (2342). In some versions, external waveguide threads (2360) mate with internal insert threads (2358), external insert threads (2362) mate with internal bushing threads (2364), and external bushing surface (2366) is press-fit within ultrasonic transducer (2342). Threaded insert (2352) is detachable from bushing (2354) such that after use, ultrasonic transducer (2342) or waveguide (2344) may be removed for recycling or refurbishment, and threaded insert (2352) and / or bushing (2350) may be disposed of or recycled. The threaded insert (2352) and the bushing (2354) may be constructed of a material that conducts ultrasonic energy but has a lower wear resistance than the waveguide (2344) and / or the ultrasonic transducer (2342), so that the threaded insert (2352) and / or the bushing (2354) may be replaced after a predetermined number of uses or after a predetermined amount of wear has progressed to prevent further progress in wear of the ultrasonic transducer (2342) and / or the waveguide (2344).

[0215] Fig.25A portion of an energy drive system (2440) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700) is shown. The energy drive system (2440) is similar to the energy drive system (2240), unless otherwise described herein. The energy drive system (2440) includes an ultrasonic transducer (2442), a waveguide (2444), and an ultrasonic scalpel (not shown). The energy drive system (2440) may also include an energy coupling (2448) to further assist a user in disassembling the energy drive system (2440) with one or both hands of the user. The ultrasonic transducer (2442) extends along a longitudinal axis (LA) and may be removably coupled to the waveguide (2444) by an energy coupling (2448). The waveguide (2444) further extends along the longitudinal axis (LA) and is operably attached to the ultrasonic blade.

[0216] The ultrasonic transducer (2442) can be removed and refurbished for reuse. More specifically, the ultrasonic transducer (2442) includes a protective coating, such as a cover (2452), to prevent damage to the ultrasonic transducer (2442) when removed from the main body assembly (2410). The cover (2452) includes a non-conductive substrate, such as rubber, plastic, or ceramic. The cover (2452) of this example also includes a conductive substrate installed by electroplating or by local application to the surface of the ultrasonic transducer (2442). This protective coating can be applied as a liquid and then dried. In other versions, the cover (2452) is in a solid state and is fastened to the ultrasonic transducer (2442).

[0217] V. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Including Selectively Detachable Housings and Strain Relief Features

[0218] In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a surgical instrument comprising a component capable of delivering ultrasonic energy, RF energy, or both ultrasonic energy and RF energy, the component being easy to open so that the internal components can be separated into a separate waste stream using minimal tools (such as no tools required) in a sterile field. These surgical instruments are configured to remain intact during normal use, but are convenient for the disassembly and / or selective decomposition of the internal components. One such internal component is a cable, which is configured to be removed by one or both hands of the user after separating the housing to approach the cable. The cable is configured to be placed in a waste stream, which may include, but is not limited to, recycling, disposal, or renovation. In addition to the waste stream required for the cable, other components may also be placed in the waste stream.

[0219] Fig.26AA portion of a body assembly (2510) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700) is shown. The body assembly (2510) includes a first shield portion (2512), a second shield portion (2514), a lateral coupling (2526), ​​and a cable (2516). The first and second shield portions (2512, 2514) are more specifically in the form of first and second cover portions. The body assembly (2510) is configured to support a circuit assembly (2550) and an energy drive system (2540) while also preventing access to the circuit assembly (2550) and the energy drive system (2540). The cable (2516) provides a generator (150) (see Figure 5) and the energy drive system (2540) and / or the circuit assembly (2550). The first shield portion (2512) and the second shield portion (2514) hold the cable (2516) in a connected state. The lateral coupling (2526) is positioned between the first and second shield portions (2512, 2514) and is configured to be able to maintain the first and second shield portions (2512, 2514) in a connected state when positioned in a locked position. The lateral coupling (2526) may include any of the aforementioned shield couplings (1004, 1204, 1206), the magnetic lock assembly (1134) and the latch (1516, 1616), as previously discussed. The lateral coupling (2526) may be electrically locked and unlocked with a key, or have magnetic members that are separate from each other. The body assembly (2510) also includes a strain relief assembly (2518) including a first relief portion (2520) and a second relief portion (2522). In this version, the strain relief assembly (2518) is adjacent to the lateral coupling (2526). The strain relief assembly (2518) is operably attached to the first and second shield portions (2512, 2514), or is integrally formed with the first and second shield portions (2512, 2514), or is a separate component mounted within a bore (2524) positioned between the first and second shield portions (2512, 2514). As shown in this example, the strain relief assembly (2518) is a separate component. The strain relief assembly (2518) includes a recessed portion configured to mate with the bore (2524). The recessed portion axially positions the strain relief assembly (2518) within the first and second shield portions (2512, 2514). The strain relief assembly (2518) is configured to retain the cable (2516) when the first shield portion (2512) and the second shield portion (2514) are in a connected state. The strain relief assembly (2518) includes an inclined surface (2528) positioned on the first relief portion (2520), wherein a complementary surface (2530) on the second relief portion (2522) is configured to axially couple the cable (2516) therebetween.

[0220] Fig.26BThe strain relief assembly (2518) is shown in a disconnected state, wherein the first shield portion (2512) is laterally spaced apart from the second shield portion (2514). To transition the body assembly from the connected state to the disconnected state, the user transitions the lateral coupling (2526) from a locked state to an unlocked state. The first shield portion (2512) is laterally spaced apart from the second shield portion (2514), thereby releasing the cable (2516) from the strain relief assembly (2518). When the first shield portion (2512) and the second shield portion (2514) are in the disconnected state, the first relief portion (2520) is separated from the second relief portion (2522) and the cable (2516) is completely released. The first shield portion (2512) is operably attached to the first relief portion (2520) and is separated from the second shield portion (2514) which is operably attached to the second relief portion (2522). Once first relief portion (2520) is spaced apart from second relief portion (2522), cable (2516) is configured to be removable from body assembly (2510) using one or both hands of a user with reduced manual force.

[0221] VI. Surgical Instrument with Removable Cable and Related Couplings

[0222] Fig. 27An exemplary surgical device is shown as a first example of a cable assembly (2710) for connecting a medical device (such as a surgical instrument (152)) to a generator (such as a generator (150)) to transmit power and electrical communication signals. The cable assembly (2710) includes at least one cable adapter (2712, 2714) for connecting to at least one device, but may also include multiple adapters (2712, 2714) for connecting to multiple devices as shown in this example and a cable (2716) that generally serves as a jumper between devices. The surgical instrument (152) can be reused as a whole, or it can be disassembled to reuse only a portion of the cable assembly (2710). The reusable portion can be determined based on the cost of the particular portion, the ease of removing and replacing the particular portion, the environmental impact of no longer using the particular portion, or the visual aesthetics of the particular portion. The surgical instrument (152) can also be disassembled for cleaning and sterilization purposes. Such sterilization purposes can include autoclaving and ethylene oxide sterilization of selected portions of the surgical instrument (125) or the entire surgical instrument (152). The surgical instrument (152) can help reduce the cost of surgery by allowing for reusable electrical conduits rather than using conventional single-use disposable electrical conduits. The cable adapters (2712, 2714) and cable (2716) can also shield the electrical conduits from external signals that would affect the performance of the surgical instrument (152) and / or the generator (150) when in electrical communication. Although the cable assembly (2710) is more specifically shown in this example as connecting the surgical instrument (152) to the generator (150) via the instrument adapter (2718) and the generator adapter (2720), respectively, the cable assembly (2710) may alternatively connect any such device and / or generator discussed herein, such that the present invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to use with the surgical instrument (152) and the generator (150).

[0223] Fig.28 A cable adapter (2712) is shown having a terminal block (2722) on which a plurality of electrical contacts (2724) are supported. In this example, each electrical contact (2724) is connected to an electrical conduit (2726) that extends to an integrated circuit (2728). As further shown in this example, the integrated circuit (2728) is removably connected to a cable body (2730) of the cable (2716), but in another example, the integrated circuit (2778) may be integrated into either of the adapters (2712, 2714) (see Fig. 27 ) or even not included at all in other examples. Integrated circuit (2778) is configured to be able to track various parameters and / or metrics of past usage of surgical instrument (152), cable assembly (2710), and / or generator (150).

[0224] The strain relief (2731) is coupled between the cable adapter (2712) and the cable body (2730) and is configured to prevent damage to the cable body (2730) and / or the electrical conduit (2726) when the cable assembly (2710) is pulled and / or bent at a damaging force or angle. In one example, the strain relief (2731) may be adhered to the cable body (2730) or may simply surround the cable body (2730) similar to a shield. The strain relief (2731) may be permanently or removably secured to the cable adapter (2712) and / or the cable body (2730) for easy replacement. The strain relief (2731) may vary in size to accommodate different diameters and provide more or less strain protection as needed.

[0225] At least one electrical conduit (2726) (such as a wire) extends from the integrated circuit (2728) and through the cable body (2730) to the opposing cable adapter (2714) (see Fig. 27 ) so as to be compatible with the generator (150) (see Fig. 27 ) connection. For example, the electrical contact (2724) can be coated externally or made of a corrosion-resistant material such as gold or dielectric grease to prevent corrosion and promote electrical connectivity. The electrical contact (2724) and the electrical conduit (2726) can be shielded by the adapter (2712, 2714, 2718, 2720) when applicable to form a female fitting, such as in the cable adapter (2712, 2714) of the present example, or can be external to the adapter (2712, 2714, 2718, 2720) to form a male fitting, such as in the instrument adapter and the generator adapter (2718, 2720).

[0226] For this reason, Fig.29 , the cable adapter (2712) and the instrument adapter (2718) define an electrical coupling (2732), and the cable adapter (2714) (see Fig. 27 ) and generator adapter (2720) (see Fig. 27 ) similarly defines another such electrical coupling (2732), albeit on the opposite end of the cable (2716). The cable adapter (2712) of the electrical coupling (2732) includes a seal (2734) that is configured to be capable of being Fig.30 The seal (2734) may also be positioned around all electrical contacts (2724) within the electrical coupling (2732) to prevent foreign material from entering the electrical coupling (2732) when coupled as shown. Fig. 27 ) and / or generator (150) (see Fig. 27 ) to inhibit foreign material from entering the electrical contact portion (2724).

[0227] refer to Fig.29 , Fig.30 and Fig. 30A In each of the embodiments, the electrical coupling (2732) includes a latch coupling (2736) having a sleeve (2738) that is selectively translatable, a plurality of catch members (2739), and an annular groove (2740). More specifically, the annular groove (2740) is positioned on the instrument adapter body (2742) to surround the longitudinal axis of the electrical coupling (2732), and the catch member (2739) is positioned angularly around the longitudinal axis of the electrical coupling (2732), about a majority of the circumference of the cable adapter body (2744) of the cable adapter (2714) around the longitudinal axis. The catch member (2739) can also be selectively movably fixed to the cable adapter body (2744). The sleeve (2738) can also be movably fixed to the cable adapter body (2744) to radially surround the longitudinal axis so as to selectively translate in the longitudinal direction.

[0228] To this end, the sleeve (2738) of the present example is configured to be movable from a locked position that mechanically couples the cable adapter (2712) to the instrument adapter (2718) to an unlocked position that mechanically decouples the cable adapter (2712) from the instrument adapter (2718). In the present example, the sleeve (2738) is biased toward the locked position by a sleeve spring (2746) that is secured in compression between the cable adapter body (2744) and the sleeve (2738), thereby urging the sleeve (2738) toward the locked position.

[0229] To achieve mechanical coupling and decoupling from the unlocked position, the sleeve (2738) also includes an inner annular recess (2748) positioned to be longitudinally aligned with the capture member (2739), which in this example is more specifically shown as a ball bearing (2739). The cable adapter (2712) also includes at least one receptacle (2750) configured to retain the ball bearing (2739), but it should be understood that any member configured to retain in this manner, such as a pin, may be similarly used. The receptacle (2750) longitudinally secures the ball bearing (2739) while allowing limited internal and external radial movement and being allowed by the surrounding structure. For example, when the sleeve is not in the unlocked position, the inner sidewall (2752) generally pushes the ball bearing (2739) radially inward; however, the inner annular recess (2748) receives the ball bearing (2739) in the unlocked position to allow the ball bearing (2739) to move radially outward. Thus, with the sleeve (2738) in the unlocked position, the instrument adapter body (2742) pushes the ball bearing (2739) radially outward into the inner annular recess (2748) of the sleeve (2738) when inserted into the cable adapter body (2744). When the instrument adapter (2712) and the cable adapter (2718) are partially coupled, once the annular recess (2740) is longitudinally aligned with the ball bearing (2739), the sleeve (2738) is selectively returned to the locked position such that the inner sidewall (2752) of the sleeve (2738) pushes the ball bearing (2739) radially inward toward the annular recess (2740) in the instrument adapter body (2742). The ball bearing (2739) is effectively captured in the annular groove (2740) between the inner wall (2752) of the sleeve (2738) and the instrument adapter body (2742), so that the instrument adapter (2718) and the cable adapter (2712) are fully coupled in a locked position for communication along the electrical conduit (2726).

[0230] While mechanically coupling the adapter body (2742) relative to the cable adapter body (2744) generally prevents unintentional decoupling of the cable adapter and the instrument adapters (2712, 2718), the electrical coupling (2732) of the present example further includes a communication coupling (2754) configured to facilitate direct engagement between the electrical contacts (2724) on the terminal block (2722) of the cable adapter (2712) and the electrical contacts (2756) of the instrument adapter (2718). For example, the terminal block (2722) of the communication coupling (2754) having the electrical contacts (2756) is resiliently biased away from the cable body (2730) toward the instrument adapter (2718) to facilitate engagement with the electrical contacts (2724) in the instrument adapter (2718). The communication coupling (2754) thus allows the electrical contact portion (2724) with the terminal seat (2722) to be longitudinally translated within a predetermined range, which in this example is a longitudinal predetermined stroke, by pushing the cable adapter body (2744). At one end of the predetermined stroke, with the seat spring (2758) in an extended state, the electrical contact portion (2724) with the terminal seat (2722) is fully advanced at a certain distance away from the cable (2716) before being inserted into the instrument adapter body (2742). At the other end of the predetermined travel, when the instrument adapter body (2742) is coupled to the cable adapter (2712) and the seat spring (2758) is in a retracted state, the electrical contact (2756) on the instrument adapter body (2744) pushes the terminal seat (2722) toward the cable (2716), causing the seat spring (2758) to be compressed between the terminal seat (2722) and the cable adapter body (2742). The seat spring (2758) will continue to push the electrical contact (2724) on the terminal seat (2722) into the adjacent electrical contact (2756) of the instrument adapter (2718) to promote engagement and electrical communication therebetween. In one example, when the cable adapter (2712) and the instrument adapter (2718) are decoupled while the latch coupling (2736) is unlocked, the seat spring can further help the cable adapter (2712) and the instrument adapter (2718) separate.

[0231] To further assist in the alignment between the cable adapter (2712) and the instrument adapter (2718), the cable adapter (2712) also includes an alignment feature, such as an alignment key (2760), for angularly aligning the cable adapter (2712) and the instrument adapter (2718) relative to each other about the longitudinal axis. Maintaining the angular alignment will allow the corresponding electrical contacts (2724, 2756) to properly align and engage with each other when applicable to facilitate coupling and alignment between the surgical instrument (152) (see Fig. 27) during use.

[0232] Although the above description is generally directed to cable adapter (2712) and instrument adapter (2718), it should be understood that cable adapter (2714) and generator adapter (2720) are generally the same as cable adapter (2712) and instrument adapter (2718), respectively, unless otherwise described herein. The above description of cable adapter (2712) and instrument adapter (2718) is therefore similarly applicable to cable adapter (2714) and generator adapter (2720) in this example, but the present invention should not be limited to cable adapter (2712) being similar to cable adapter (2714) and instrument adapter (2718) being similar to generator adapter (2720). It should also be understood that any adapter (2712, 2714, 2718, 2720) can be interchanged with related features on any device as desired, as long as the adapters (2712, 2714, 2718, 2720) are configured to be able to effectively cooperate during use to communicate between them. In other words, in one example, one or more instrument adapters or generator adapters (2718, 2720) may be incorporated into the cable assembly (2710), and / or one or more cable adapters (2712, 2714) may be incorporated into the surgical instrument (152) (see Fig. 27 ) and / or generator (150) (see Fig. 27 ). Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the specific adapter (2712, 2714, 2718, 2720) arrangement shown in this example.

[0233] Fig.31 and Fig.32 Another exemplary cable assembly (2810) is shown having an alternative example of a cable adapter (2812), an instrument adapter (2818), and a latch coupling (2836) having a rotatable sleeve (2838) for mechanically coupling the instrument adapter body (2742) and the cable adapter body (2744) together. In this regard, the cable adapter and instrument adapter (2812, 2818) are similar to the cable adapter and instrument adapter (2712, 2718) discussed above, unless otherwise expressly indicated herein by like numerals indicating like features. More specifically, the sleeve (2838) includes a bayonet slot (2848) that extends radially therethrough and is configured to receive an accompanying bayonet pin (2850) that extends radially from the instrument adapter body (2742). Sleeve (2838) having bayonet slot (2848) is configured to be rotatable relative to cable adapter body (2744), while bayonet pin (2850) rigidly extends from instrument adapter body (2742) and is fixed relative to the instrument adapter body.

[0234] The bayonet slot (2848) more specifically includes an opening (2870), a longitudinally extending linear portion (2872), a longitudinally and angularly extending arcuate portion (2874), and a locking terminal cavity (2876). The sleeve (2838) can be attached to the cable adapter body (2844) from Fig.31 The illustrated bayonet pin (2850) is rotated from a partially coupled unlocked position in which the bayonet pin (2850) is received in the linear portion (2872) through the opening (2870) to a fully coupled locked position in which the bayonet pin (2850) is rotated through the arcuate portion (2874) against the end of the bayonet slot (2848) in the terminal cavity (2876). Once the bayonet pin (2850) reaches the circular portion, the sleeve spring (2846) advances the sleeve (2838) distally relative to the cable (2716) so that the bayonet pin (2850) is captured in the terminal cavity (2876), thereby securing the cable adapter (2812) to the instrument adapter (2818) in the locked position. In one example, when the terminal cavity (2876) receives the bayonet pin (2850), the bayonet pin (2850) and the sleeve (2838) together generate an audible noise and / or tactile feedback to indicate the locked position.

[0235] Although the above description is generally directed to a cable adapter (2812) and an instrument adapter (2818), it should be understood that the adapters (2812, 2818) may be cooperatively interchanged or included with any of the adapters (2712, 2714, 2718, 2720) having related features on any device as desired, as long as the adapters (2712, 2714, 2718, 2720) are configured to be able to effectively cooperate during use to communicate therebetween. Likewise, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the specific adapter (2812, 2818) arrangement shown in this example.

[0236] VII. Surgical systems and methods of assembling and disassembling surgical instruments

[0237] Manufacturers of medical devices often offer a large number of customized products to meet the individual preferences of surgeons, hospitals, and patients. To meet these preferences, manufacturers may distribute surgical kits consisting of individual components that need to be assembled before use. In many cases, this assembly is performed immediately before use and can be performed by hand without tools. This assembly may include connecting two electrical connectors together, or connecting a vacuum line to a vacuum tank. In other cases, this assembly may require specialized tools, such as a wrench to secure a nut.

[0238] As with assembly, it may be desirable to disassemble a component after use. Disassembly may be advantageous for reasons such as reusing certain components, analyzing internal wear items, and recycling or refurbishing high-value components. Disassembly may require the use of certain tools and instruments specifically designed to access and remove these components without damaging them.

[0239] Surgical instruments, such as instruments (152, 154, 156) and other instruments shown and described herein are often the most valuable components of a surgical kit, but in many cases are single-use components and therefore are not reusable. If any of such instruments (152, 154, 156) are reusable, then these instruments (152, 154, 156) may need to be at least partially disassembled and cleaned after use to remove any biological material that may have been attached to the instruments (152, 154, 156). Regardless of whether the instruments (152, 154, 156) are single-use or reusable, the instruments (152, 154, 156) will typically contain high-value components, such as transducers, circuit boards, and sensors, which can be reused or recycled rather than disposed of.

[0240] Accessing and harvesting these high-value parts can often be a laborious task and in many cases cost-prohibitive, so there is little or no design consideration for harvesting the parts after use. For example, when assembling these instruments (152, 154, 156), certain irreversible assembly procedures may be used to prevent them from being disassembled. These irreversible procedures may include overmolding, use of adhesives, welding, use of conformal coatings, disposable accessories, and irreversible fasteners. A surgical kit including instruments (152, 154, 156) may have one or more features configured to facilitate the acquisition of high-value and recyclable parts. In addition, instruments (152, 154, 156) may include the use of assembly practices such as reversible adhesives, standard fasteners, special access ports, and electrical connectors instead of welded joints.

[0241] to this end, Fig.33A surgical kit (3000) for use in a surgical setting is depicted, the surgical kit having one or more such features configured to facilitate the collection of high-value and recyclable parts. The kit (3000) includes a tray (3016) designed to hold and present parts, and in this example, includes all items needed to perform a particular operation, although alternative examples may have more or fewer parts as needed for all or part of the surgery. Such a surgical kit (3000) can simplify ordering by using a single part number for the entire kit (3000) rather than ordering each part individually, which may result in inadvertently missing a desired part for a surgical procedure. The surgical kit (3000) can be shipped sterile, can be sterilized on site, or can be used non-sterilely if desired. The components of the surgical kit (3000) of this example include an instrument (152), a replacement component (3012) for the instrument (152), a component compartment (3018) built into a tray (3016) for capturing spare or discarded components, and a component container (3020) for capturing spare or discarded components that may require fluid sealing (such as described herein). The invention also includes a surgical kit (3000) and an instrument tool assembly (3022), and instructions for use (not shown). Although surgical kit (3000) incorporates instrument (152) therein, any surgical instrument (such as instruments (154, 156) or other such instruments described herein) may be incorporated into an alternative kit such that the present invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to instrument (152).

[0242] More specifically, instrument tool assembly (3022), also referred to herein as tool (3022), is configured to be acted upon instrument (152) to gain access to high-value and recyclable components of instrument (152). In this case, tool (3022) is provided with instrument (152) in kit (3000) to ensure usability for use with instrument (152), such as when instrument (1520) is disassembled.

[0243] Rather than including tool (3022) in kit (3000), Fig.34 Tool (3022) is shown provided or attached to the instrument (152) (see Fig.33) is an alternative example of a generator (150) associated with the generator (150). In one example, the generator (150) includes a mounting member (3026) for the tool (3022) located on the generator (150) (such as on a side wall of the generator (150)). The mounting member (3026) of this example is configured to support multiple attachments and detachments of the tool (3022). The mounting member (3026) may also include instructions for use of the tool (3022), a tool part number of the tool (3022), a handpiece part number associated with the tool (3022), and / or a website that an operator can refer to for use of the generator (150) and the tool (3022). More specifically, the tool (3022) also includes a device operable to connect to a nearby instrument (152) (see Fig.33 ) and / or the electronic device (3045) for communicating with the generator (150) (see Fig.35 ) and tags. The electronics (3045) include a central processing unit (CPU), memory, a communication unit (such as a wireless receiver and transmitter), and / or a feedback system (such as a tactile button or display). The electronics (3045) can operate with the generator (150) and the instrument (152) to transmit usage and function data either wiredly or wirelessly.

[0244] Fig.35 The apparatus (152) for assembling or disassembling is shown in more detail (see Fig.33). The tool (3022) may include a body (3023), a torque limiting aspect attached to the body (3023), such as a torque wrench coupler (3028). The coupler (3028) may be more quickly mated to conventional hex head, flat head, cross head screws, or any other proprietary or non-proprietary accessories. In one example, the tool (3022) includes a predefined torque limit associated with the coupler (3028), which is set and calibrated when the tool (3022) is produced and cannot be adjusted by the user. In another example, the tool (3022) includes an adjustable torque limit associated with the coupler (3028), allowing the user to set the torque limit from a plurality of available torque limits to change the torque desired to be applied by the user. A torque limit indicator (3030) is presented on the body (3023) of this example to indicate the torque limit to which the tool (3022) has been adjusted. Adjusting the torque limit can be performed by twisting the handle (3044) to the indicated torque limit, such as a click-type torque wrench; twisting the rotating shaft, such as a T-shaped handle torque wrench; pressing a button, such as an electronic torque wrench; or manipulating a portion of the tool (3022) according to a predetermined amount. When in use, the tool (3022) uses an audible noise, a tactile indication, and / or a visual indication to indicate that the desired torque has been reached. The tool (3022) is also capable of indicating the current torque being applied without limiting the torque, such as a beam torque wrench. Aspects of torque limitation, such as those associated with the coupler (3028), can be selectable to allow torque limitation or prohibit torque limitation, thereby using the tool (3022) as a wrench or ratchet. All torque limiting and torque indication features can be used for clockwise and / or counterclockwise rotation and can be presented electronically and / or mechanically.

[0245] The tool (3022) also includes a prying portion (3034), which is more specifically shown as a wedge (3034) in this example, and is intended to separate and pry apart two parts of the instrument (152) by wedging the prying portion (3034) at a predetermined approach (3035) between two parts (such as two parts of the housing). The separation of the two parts at the predetermined approach (3035) can be achieved by using the prying portion (3034) as a lever once the prying portion (3034) has been wedged between the two parts, or it can also be achieved by wedging the prying portion (3034) more deeply between the two parts and thus forcing them to separate. The prying portion (3034) can be located at any position on the tool (3022) that can appropriately manipulate the tool (3022) to achieve the desired separation of the two parts. The prying portion (3034) can be used to separate parts that have been coupled together, such as by a clip or press pin, an adhesive, a magnet, a break region, or by any other fixing means. Prying portion (3034) also functions as a scraper to remove biomaterial or adhesive from instrument (152) or generator (150).

[0246] The tool (3022) of this example also includes a key (3032) intended to unlock portions of the instrument (152) and / or the generator (150). The key (3032) may be device-specific, or general purpose so as to be applicable to a number of devices. The key (3032) may be operable to disassemble the instrument (152) for component collection, or may be operable to unlock or access otherwise unavailable features of the instrument (152). For example, the key is configured to be received within a lock assembly (not shown) of a hatch (3033) that is configured to be capable of transitioning from a locked state to an unlocked state. In the locked state, the hatch (3033) is fixed to prevent access to the interior (3036) of the instrument (152) through it. In the unlocked state, the hatch (3033) is configured to be selectively movable to allow access to the interior (3036) and removal and / or replacement of components, such as an ultrasonic transducer, from the interior (3036).

[0247] The tool (3022) of this example also includes a cleaning tube (3037) configured to scrub and clean the instrument (152). More specifically, the tool (3022) has a lumen cleaner configured to clean a lumen (not shown) on the instrument (152). The cleaning tube (3037) and lumen cleaner may include bristles and contact surfaces configured to clean a surface.

[0248] As another example, the tool (3022) has a pair of pliers (3040) and a dilator (3038). The pliers (3040) and dilator (3038) may be separate components, or may be included as one component hinged against the body (3023) of the tool (3022). The pliers (3040) and dilator (3038) have a handle that is configured to clamp the arm (3042) against the body of the tool (3022) and to expand the arm, as shown in this example. The pliers (3040) and dilator (3038) may also feature a single handle with multiple arms (not shown), one of which is configured to clamp against the body (3023) of the tool (3022), and another of which is configured to expand against the body (3023) of the tool (3022). Forceps (3040) are configured to compress components together, such as to assemble multiple components of instrument (152), or may be used to squeeze components of instrument (152) to gain access to a portion of instrument (152). In contrast, dilator (3038) is configured to separate components of instrument (152) to gain access to a portion of instrument (152), such as through a predetermined access portion (3035).

[0249] In one example, tool (3022) may be incorporated into a robotic surgical system. In addition to the following teachings, tool (3022) may be constructed and operated in accordance with at least some of the teachings of: U.S. Patent No. 9,125,662, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and / or various other references cited herein. As another example, tool (3022) is configured to be capable of coupling with robotic arm (123) (see Figure 2) is coupled to a complementary component of the robotic arm (123). When the tool (3022) is coupled to the robotic arm (123), the robotic arm (123) can use the tool (3022) to disassemble, assemble and / or clean the instrument (152) and the generator (152). The robotic arm (123) can use the tool (123) on the instrument (152) while the instrument (152) is in the tray (3016), mounted on the generator (150), freely movable (such as on a table), or coupled to a complementary robotic arm (123). The robotic arm (123) can use all of the aforementioned functions of the tool (3022), such as changing torque limits and using torque limiting aspects, using the key (3032), using the prying portion (3034), and using forceps (3040) and dilators (3038). When the robotic arm (123) approaches the tool (3022), the robotic arm (123) can communicate with the electronics (3045) to learn how the tool (3022) has been used previously and to prevent the tool (3022) from being used in the future. The communication between the robotic arm (123) and the tool (3022) can be done wirelessly or through a wired link at the robotic coupling (3046).

[0250] As described above, in one example, the tool (3022) includes electrical features and / or conductive mechanical features. Such features may induce a risk of power or signals undesirably crossing from one electrical feature to another electrical feature and / or from one electrical feature to a conductive mechanical feature. In addition, the tool (3022) may include electrical features and / or conductive mechanical features that may induce a risk of generating a potential between adjacent components or forming a capacitive coupling between the electrical features and / or between the electrical features and the conductive mechanical features. In the context of the tool (3022), such a risk may occur for components coupled to the tool (3022). Other components of the tool (3022) that may be subject to the above-mentioned risks will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0251] refer to Fig.36A and 36B , shows another example of a tool (3122) that is similar to tool (3022) (see Fig.35 ), unless otherwise discussed below. Fig.36A Tool (3122) is shown in a first configuration (3152) such that tool (3122) may be used in a particular manner with first feature (3048) enabled. First feature (3148) may include tool (3022) as described above (see Fig.35), such as a torque wrench coupling (3028), a key (3032), a prying portion (3034), a cleaning tube (3037), a dilator (3038), a forceps (3040), a handle (3044), a link to an electronic device (3045), and a robotic coupling (3046) (see Fig.35 ). The tool (3122) is configured such that once the first feature (3148) is used for its intended purpose, the second feature (3150) of the tool (3122) becomes operable after use of the first feature (3148), and in one example, becomes operable only after use of the first feature (3148). Similarly, the second feature (3150) may include any of the above-mentioned features of the tool (3022), such as a torque wrench coupling (3028), a key (3032), a prying portion (3034), a cleaning tube (3037), an expander (3038), a pliers (3040), a handle (3044), a link to an electronic device (3045), and a robotic coupling (3046) (see Fig.35 ). Although tools (3022) (see Fig.35 ) may be incorporated into the tool (3122), but in this example, the first feature (3148) includes the torque wrench coupler (3028) and the second feature (3150) includes the prying portion (3034), but the present invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to this particular combination of this example. In this example, once the torque wrench coupler (3028) has reached a predefined torque, the tool (3122) is able to automatically transition from the first feature (3148) to the second feature (3150). The transition of the tool (3122) from the first feature (3148) to the second feature (3150) can change the way a user holds and operates the tool (3122).

[0252] To enable the second feature (3150), the tool (3122) is transformed from the first configuration (3152) to the second configuration (3154), such as Fig.36BAs shown. The tool (3122) also includes a feature inhibitor (3156), such as a cap. To this end, when in the first configuration (3152), the feature inhibitor (3156) is configured to be able to prevent access to the second feature (3150) and / or inhibit the function of the second feature before the use of the first feature (3148). The feature inhibitor (3156) may also include a warning mark, such as an instruction that the first feature (3148) will be used or the tool (3122) will be transformed to the second configuration (3154) before the second feature (3150) becomes accessible and / or used. The tool (3122) may need to remove or destroy the feature inhibitor (3156) to make the second feature (3150) operable or accessible. When in the second configuration (3154), the tool (3022) is configured to be able to disable the first feature (3148) so that the first feature (3148) is no longer accessible and / or operable. For example, the feature inhibitor (3156) as a cap can be placed to cover and / or hide the first feature (3148) so that the first feature (3148) is no longer accessible and / or visible. In one example, it is necessary to reset the tool (3122) to further make the first feature (3148) operable by resetting the tool (3122) to the first configuration (3152). In one example, when in the second configuration (3154), both the first feature (3048) and the second feature (3050) of the tool (3022) are operable. In this regard, the present invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to the continuous operation and access of the first and second features (3148, 3150) as shown in this example.

[0253] VIII. Robotic surgical system with removable parts

[0254] In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a surgical instrument comprising a component capable of delivering ultrasonic energy, RF energy, or both ultrasonic and RF energy, which is easily opened to provide access to internal components so as to be separated into separate waste streams using minimal tools. Surgical operations are usually performed in a sterile field, as described above. The sterile field does not contain microorganisms, and by ensuring that only sterilized equipment and tools are used in the sterile field, the surgical team can reduce the chance of infection. Surgical instruments are sterilized and packaged in a sterile container, which is then sent to the sterile field. Health professionals may need to disassemble surgical instruments in a sterile field by hand or with a tool arranged in a sterile container after surgery. For example, a torque wrench for assembling surgical instruments may have additional features in order to disassemble surgical instruments.

[0255] Surgical instruments include additional features that facilitate disassembly and removal of internal components. These separate waste streams are predetermined based on the material of the component or the purpose of the component. For example, the waste streams may include recycling, disposal, or refurbishment. Components placed in the disposal waste stream will be disposed of in a landfill. Components placed in the recycling waste stream may be further separated, shredded, and melted into basic components. Components placed in the refurbishment waste stream will be cleaned, tested, repaired, and reassembled in another surgical instrument. For example, plastic and metal components may be separated into one waste stream for disposal, heavy metals from integrated circuits may be separated into a second waste stream for recycling, and ultrasonic transducers may be separated into a third waste stream for refurbishment.

[0256] A. Overview of Robotic Surgery Systems

[0257] Fig.37 An exemplary robotic surgical system (4010) is shown that includes a patient side cart (4012) (surgical robot), a surgical robot hub (4014), and a packaging system (4016). The patient side cart (4012) may be similar to the patient side cart (120), and the surgical robot hub (4014) may be similar to the surgical robot hub (122) (see Figure 2 ), unless otherwise noted below. Although not shown, the robotic surgical system (4010) may include additional features similar to the robotic surgical system (110) (eg, a surgeon's console, etc.).

[0258] like Fig.37 As shown, the patient side cart (4012) includes a base (4018), a column (4020), a vertical slide (4022) and an operating table (4024). The base (4018) and the column (4020) together support the operating table (4024). The vertical slide (4022) is configured to be able to move up or down along or relative to the column (4020). The operating table (4024) is configured to be able to support a patient thereon and may be similar to the operating table (114). The vertical slide supports a plurality of robotic arms, which may be similar to the operating table (114). Figure 2. Although the plurality of robotic arms are shown as including first, second and third robotic arms (4026, 4028, 4030), more robotic arms (e.g., fourth, fifth, sixth arms, etc.) or fewer robotic arms (e.g., first and second arms) are also conceivable. The first, second and third robotic arms (4026, 4028, 4030) extend outward from the column (4020). As shown, each of the first, second and third robotic arms (4026, 4028, 4030) includes a joint (4032) that allows multiple degrees of freedom (e.g., seven or eight degrees of freedom). The first robotic arm (4026) is operatively coupled to a surgical instrument (4034) at a first interface (4040). The surgical instrument (4034) is configured to be able to interact with a patient. The surgical instrument (4034) may be similar to the above-described surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156).

[0259] The robotic surgical system (4010) includes a plurality of tools. Fig.37 A plurality of robotic tools including tools (4036, 4038) are schematically shown, but more tools (e.g., a third, fourth, fifth, sixth tool, etc.) or fewer tools (e.g., a first tool) are also contemplated. As schematically shown, a second robotic arm (4028) is operatively coupled to the tool (4036) at a second interface (4042), and a third robotic arm (4030) is operatively coupled to the tool (4038) at a third interface (4044).

[0260] Continue to refer Fig.37 , the hub (4014) includes a controller (4046) and an optional sensor (4048). The tools (4036, 4038) are operatively coupled to the controller (4046). The disassembly feature (4050) of the tool (4036) and / or the disassembly feature (4052) of the tool (4038) are configured to be able to disconnect at least a portion of the surgical instrument (4034) from the robotic surgical system (4010) in response to an instruction from the controller (4046). The controller (4046) may autonomously instruct the tool (4036) to disconnect at least a portion of the surgical instrument (4034) from the robotic surgical system (4010). As used herein, "autonomously" is intended to mean that an operation is capable of being performed once initiated without requiring additional user instructions. Controller (4046) is configured to disconnect surgical instrument (4034) in response to feedback received from sensor (4048) indicating that detachment feature (4050) of tool (4036) is disconnected. In some versions, sensor (4048) may include an optical sensor configured to determine the presence of a person in operating room (116).

[0261] Continue to refer Fig.37 , the packaging system (4016) includes a labeling device (4054), a packaging device (4056) (e.g., a bagging device), a sealing device (4058), a disposal device (4060), and a recovery device (4062). The labeling device (4054) is configured to be able to distribute a label (4064). The label (4064) may include tool information (e.g., serial number, manufacturing information, usage information, etc.). The packaging device (4056) is configured to be able to distribute a package (4066). The label (4064) may be attached to the outer surface of the package (4066). In some versions, the label (4064) may already be attached to the package (4066). The package (4066) is configured to be able to receive a portion of the surgical instrument (4034) in response to an instruction from the controller (4046). The package (4066) may have a variety of shapes, sizes, and forms. For example, package (4066) may include a flexible bag, a rigid container, and / or a semi-rigid container. Controller (4046) is configured to be able to instruct tool (4036) and / or tool (4038) to insert a portion of surgical instrument (4034) into package (4066). This may provide bagging capabilities alongside the patient-side cart (4012) for personnel in operating room (116).

[0262] The packaging system (4016) works in coordination with the patient side cart (4012) so that the robotic arms (4026, 4028, 4030) can position the package (4066), allow for automatic dispensing of the package (4066), open the package (4066), and close the package (4066) when the surgical instrument (4034) is located within the interior of the package (4066). The sealing device (4058) can seal the package (4066) after a portion of the surgical instrument (4034) is received by the package (4066) in response to an instruction from the controller (4046). The recycling device (4062) can include first and second shipping containers (4068, 4070). The first shipping container (4068) can be used to transport the package (4066) to a first location, and the second shipping container (4070) can be used to transport the package (4066) to a second location different from the first location.

[0263] At least one of the tools (4036, 4038) includes a disassembly feature (4050, 4052). The robotic surgical system (4010) utilizes the interaction of at least the surgical instrument (4034) and the tool (4036) to achieve the desired disassembly. As will be described in more detail below, the tools (4036, 4038) may be disassembled using discrete strokes or forces. For example, the tool (4036) may disassemble a first portion of the surgical instrument (4034), and the tool (4038) may disassemble a different second portion of the surgical instrument (4034). Alternatively, the disassembly features (4050, 4052) of the tools (4036, 4038) may be used in combination (or even in combination with other tools (not shown)) to disassemble the surgical instrument (4034). In some versions, the disassembly features (4050, 4052) of the tools (4036, 4038) may be used in combination at the same time. In some versions, only tool (4036) includes disassembly feature (4050), while tool (4038) includes a surgical instrument (e.g., surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156). Although not shown, in some versions, surgical instrument (4034) may be used to disassemble at least a portion of tools (4036, 4038).

[0264] B. Exemplary Surgical Instruments

[0265] Fig.38 A perspective view of an exemplary surgical instrument (4110) that can be used to replace surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034) is shown. The surgical instrument (4110) can be configured to deliver ultrasonic energy, radio frequency ("RF") energy, or both. Although the surgical instrument (4110) is configured to be capable of delivering ultrasound energy, radio frequency ("RF") energy, or both, at the first interface (4040) (see Fig.37 ) and the first robot arm (4026) (see Fig.37 ) are operatively coupled, but the surgical instrument (4110) may alternatively be hand-held. The surgical instrument (4110) includes a body (4112), an axis assembly (4114), and an end effector (4116). The end effector (4116) includes an ultrasonic blade (4118) disposed on a first jaw and a clamping arm (4120) disposed on an opposing second jaw. The clamping arm (4120) is configured to be pivotable relative to the ultrasonic blade (4118). The body (4112) includes a housing (4122) and a plurality of recyclable components. The housing (4122) is shown to include first and second housing portions (4124, 4126), which may also be referred to as shield portions. As described below with reference Figures 40 to 44B As shown and described, the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) can be coupled using a variety of different coupling structures.

[0266] Reference again Fig.37as well as Fig.38 , the first housing portion (4124) is separated from the second housing portion (4126). Although the multiple recyclable components are shown as first and second recyclable components (4128, 4130), more recyclable components (e.g., a third recyclable component, a fourth recyclable component, etc.) or fewer recyclable components are conceivable. The controller (4046) may autonomously instruct the disassembly feature (4050) and / or the disassembly feature (4052) to disconnect the first and second recyclable components (4128, 4130). In some versions, the surgical instrument (4110) may be in the form of an ultrasonic surgical instrument including an ultrasonic component. The first recyclable component (4124) includes an ultrasonic waveguide (the waveguide may include an ultrasonic scalpel (4118)). The second recyclable component (4130) includes an ultrasonic transducer. The controller (4046) can autonomously indicate the removal feature (4050) and / or the removal feature (4052) to disconnect the ultrasonic waveguide and the ultrasonic transducer from the patient side cart (4012). With the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) released, the second retrievable component (4130) (e.g., the ultrasonic transducer) is exposed for subsequent removal. The surgical instrument (4110) includes a marking (4132) to indicate a predetermined removal position to the controller (4046).

[0267] C. Exemplary Surgical Tools

[0268] Fig.39A view of a second exemplary tool (4210) that can be used in place of tools (4036, 4038) is shown. Tool (4210) may also be referred to as a multi-tool. Tool (4210) includes a body (4212) and a plurality of disassembly features. Body (4212) may rotate about a center point (4228). Although the plurality of disassembly features are shown as disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224), more or fewer disassembly features may be envisioned. Disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224) are shown extending outwardly from a perimeter (4226) of body (4212). Disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224) may have a variety of shapes and sizes. The disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224) are configured to enable removal of at least a portion of the housing (4122) of the surgical instrument (4110). In some versions, the disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224) are removable and allow for insertion of different disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224) depending on the surgical instrument (4110) to be disassembled. Once the controller (4046) receives the disassembly instructions (e.g., a device code), the controller (4046) obtains the desired disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224) and then executes the disassembly instructions based on the surgical instrument (4110).

[0269] The removal feature (4214) is shown as a pair of pliers, but can also be used as a pair of reverse pliers. The removal feature (4214) includes a first jaw (4230) and a second jaw (4232) that are opposite each other and are configured to be movable relative to each other, as described below with reference to Figure 40 to Figure 41As shown and described. The removal feature (4216) is shown as a scraper. Although the removal feature (4216) is shown as having a flat and blunt distal end (4234), the distal end (4234) may alternatively be pointed. The removal feature (4218) is shown as a wedge. Although the removal structure (4218) is shown as having a pointed distal end (4236), the distal end (4234) may alternatively be blunt. The first side surface (4238) and the second side surface (4240) of the removal feature (4218) extend outwardly and away from the distal end (4236). The removal feature (4220) is shown as a torque wrench. The distal end (4242) can rotate the fastener for removal. The removal feature (4222) is shown as a screwdriver having a distal end (4244) configured to be able to rotate the fastener for removal. The removal feature (4224) is shown as a pipe cleaner. The removal feature (4224) can be used to remove debris before utilizing the removal features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222).

[0270] Tool (4210) is shown as including a coupling portion (4245) configured to be coupled to the second interface (4042) or the third interface (4044). In some versions, the disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224) are removable from the body (4212). In some versions, the disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224) are injection molded from a single unitary piece. In some versions, the disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224) are manufactured using only metal or only plastic. In some embodiments, the robotic arms (4028, 4030), tools (4036, 4038), and accompanying disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224) are not utilized in normal operation of the surgical instrument (4110), but allow the tools (4036, 4038) to achieve different orientations and access various portions of the patient side cart (4012) and / or switch tools (4036, 4038) and disassembly features (4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224).

[0271] 1. First Exemplary Disassembly Feature

[0272] Figure 40 to Figure 41 Shows Fig.39 Specifically,

[0273] Fig.40The disassembly feature (4214) is shown being used as a reverse pliers to break the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) of the housing (4122). The opposing first and second jaws (4230, 4232) are moved from a first configuration (shown in phantom) to a second configuration (shown in solid lines) to disassemble the housing (4122). Fig.38 The housing (4122) of the surgical instrument (4110) is provided. In some versions, only one of the first and second jaws (4230, 4232) moves, while the other jaw of the first and second jaws (4230, 4232) remains stationary. Although the distal ends (4234) of the first and second jaws (4230, 4232) are shown as planar, the first and second jaws (4230, 4232) may alternatively terminate at a tip. The tip may further enable the distal ends (4234) of the first and second jaws (4230, 4232) to pry open the housing (4122). The first jaw (4230) includes an inner surface and an outer surface (4246, 4248). Similarly, the second jaw (4232) includes an inner surface and an outer surface (4250, 4252). As shown, outer surfaces (4248-4252) of first and second jaws (4230, 4232) push against housing (4122) to fracture housing (4122) or otherwise manipulate housing (4122) as desired.

[0274] Fig.41 Shows Fig.40 The removal feature (4214) moves from the third configuration to the fourth configuration to grasp Fig.38 The disassembly feature (4214) can be used to autonomously engage a mechanical key on the first robotic arm (4026).

[0275] 2. Second Exemplary Disassembly Feature

[0276] FIG. 42A to FIG. 42B Shows the use of Fig.39 The disassembly feature (4222) disassembles the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) of the surgical instrument (4110). Specifically, Fig.42A The components are shown coupled together in a connected configuration using a mechanical connector (4254) prior to separation using a removal feature (4222). Fig.38first and second housing portions (4124, 4126). Fig.42B Shows Fig.42A The first and second housing parts (4124, 4126), but in Fig.42A The disassembly feature (4222) moves the mechanical connector (4254) to the non-connected configuration. The disassembly feature (4222) acts as a mechanical key to release the first and second housing parts (4124, 4126) of the surgical instrument (4110) to achieve self-disassembly. The mechanical connector (4254) slides within the slots (4256, 4258) of the first and second housing parts (4124, 4126). Although the disassembly feature (4222) is shown as translating the mechanical connector (4254) to disengage the first and second housing parts (4124, 4126), the disassembly feature (4222) can rotate and / or translate the mechanical connector (4254) to disengage the first and second housing parts (4124, 4126). The small predetermined housing feature prevents accidental disassembly while still allowing the tool (4036, 4038) to properly access the first and second housing parts (4124, 4126).

[0277] 3. Third Exemplary Disassembly Feature

[0278] FIG. 43A to FIG. 43B The first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) of the surgical instrument (4110) are shown being disassembled using an exemplary disassembly feature (4310), which is shown as a magnet. The disassembly feature (4310) may be included as a separate tool, or may be included in the tool (4210). Specifically, Fig.43A The components are shown coupled together in a connected configuration using a magnetic connector (4312) prior to being separated by a removal feature (4310). Fig.38 first and second housing portions (4124, 4126). Fig.43B Shows Fig.43A The first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) are removed, but after the removal feature (4310) moves the magnetic connector (4312) to a non-connected configuration.

[0279] The removal feature (4310) acts as a magnetic key to release the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) of the surgical instrument (4110) to achieve self-removal. The magnetic connector (4312) slides within the slots (4314, 4316) of the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) between a connected configuration and a non-connected configuration. Although the removal feature (4310) is shown as translating the magnetic connector (4312) to disengage the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126), the removal feature (4310) can rotate and / or translate the magnetic connector (4312) to disengage the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126). Although the removal feature (4310) is shown as attracting the magnetic connector (4312), the removal feature (4310) can alternatively repel the magnetic connector (4312).

[0280] 4. Fourth Exemplary Disassembly Feature

[0281] FIG. 44A to FIG. 44B The first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) of the surgical instrument (4110) are shown being disassembled using an exemplary disassembly feature (4410), which is shown as a powered disassembly feature (4410). The disassembly feature (4410) may be included as a separate tool, or may be included in the tool (4210). Specifically, Fig.44A The apparatus is shown coupled together in a connected configuration using an electrical connector (4412) prior to being separated using a removal feature (4410). Fig.38 first and second housing portions (4124, 4126). Fig.44B Shows Fig.44A The first and second housing parts (4124, 4126), but in Fig.44A After the removal feature (4410) moves the electrical connector (4412) to the non-connected configuration, the electrical connector (4412) slides within the slots (4414, 4416) of the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126).

[0282] The disassembly feature (4410) is used as an electric key to release the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) of the surgical instrument (4110) to achieve self-disassembly. The disassembly feature (4410) is operably connected to a power source (4418) to provide power to the disassembly feature (4410). Although the disassembly feature (4410) is shown as translating the electric connector (4412) to disengage the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126), the disassembly feature (4410) can rotate and / or translate the electric connector (4412) to disengage the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126).

[0283] 5. Fifth Exemplary Disassembly Feature

[0284] FIG. 45A to FIG. 45B The housing (4122) of the surgical instrument (4110) is shown being separated using an exemplary removal feature (4510), which is shown as a laser. The removal feature (4510) may be included as a separate tool, or may be included in the tool (4210). Specifically, Fig.45A Housing (4122) is shown in a connected configuration prior to being separated by removal feature (4510). Housing (4122) includes indicia (4132), which is shown as a recessed portion to guide removal feature (4510) to a desired position. Fig.45B The housing (4122) is shown disconnected after the removal feature (4510) has completely penetrated the housing (4122). The removal feature (4510) may cut through specific predetermined areas to release the first and second retrievable components (4128, 4130). In some versions, the housing (4122) of the surgical instrument (4110) may be formed of nitinol such that the removal feature (4510) may apply heat to deform the nitinol material for removal.

[0285] 6. Sixth Exemplary Disassembly Feature

[0286] FIG. 46A to FIG. 46B Disassembly features (4610, 4612) are shown, which are shown as being configured as first and second end effectors capable of interacting with tissue of a patient. The disassembly features (4610, 4612) can be operably coupled to the second and third robotic arms (4028, 4030). The disassembly features (4610, 4612) are shown moving from a first configuration toward a second configuration. The disassembly features (4610, 4612) can be similar to the end effectors (166, 180, 188, 4116) of the surgical instruments (152, 154, 156, 4110). The disassembly features (4610, 4612) each include a pivotable clamping arm (4614, 4616) for grasping. The markings (4132) of the housing (4122) highlight the fragile portion (4618). The disassembly features (4610, 4612) are configured to be able to separate Fig.38 A fragile portion (4618) of the housing (4122) of the surgical instrument (4034). Fig.46B A schematic front view of the frangible portion (4618) in a severed state is shown.

[0287] In some versions, the disassembly feature (4610) is configured to provide a first predetermined force, a first predetermined motion, and / or a first predetermined task to disconnect at least a portion of the surgical instrument (4110). In some versions, under-application of the first predetermined force or over-application of the first predetermined force does not release the housing (4122). The first predetermined force is greater than the maximum force that can be manually provided by a user. In other words, the first predetermined force may exceed the force that a user can manually apply to remove the housing (4122). In some versions, both under-application and over-application may prevent the housing (4122) from fully opening.

[0288] The disassembly feature (4612) is configured to be capable of providing a second predetermined force, a second predetermined motion, and / or a second predetermined task that is independent of the first predetermined force, the first predetermined motion, and / or the first predetermined task applied by the disassembly feature (4610) to disconnect at least a portion of the surgical instrument (4034) in response to instructions from the controller (4046). Utilizing multiple separate independently applied forces, motions, or tasks will collectively allow for disassembly of the portions of the surgical instrument (4034). For example, the disassembly features (4610, 4612) of the respective tools (4036, 4038) may generate synchronized motions that cooperatively unlock two or more separate portions simultaneously to open or remove portions of the surgical instrument (4034) that are unable to be manually generated by a user to coordinate forces.

[0289] D. Exemplary Tool Dispenser

[0290] Fig.47 An exemplary tool dispenser (4710) configured to hold a plurality of tools (shown as tools (4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) is shown. The tools (4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) may be individually wrapped in sterile packaging. The tool (4712) includes a coupling portion (4724), a shaft (4726), and a removal feature (4728) similar to Figure 39 to Figure 41 The tool (4714) includes a coupling portion (4730), a shaft (4732), and a disassembly feature (4734) similar to Fig.39 The tool (4716) includes a coupling portion (4736), a shaft (4738), and a disassembly feature (4740) similar to Fig.39 The tool (4718) includes a coupling portion (4742), a shaft (4744) and a disassembly feature (4746) similar to Fig.39The tool (4720) includes a coupling portion (4748), a shaft (4750), and a disassembly feature (4752) similar to Fig.39 The tool (4722) includes a coupling portion (4754), a shaft (4756) and a disassembly feature (4758) similar to Fig.39 Disassembly feature (4224) shown.

[0291] The coupling portions (4724, 4730, 4736, 4742, 4748, 4754) are configured to be able to Fig.37 The robot arm (4028) is shown coupled to the second interface (4042) of the robot arm (4028) or the third interface (4044) of the robot arm (4030). In some versions, the coupling portion (4724, 4730, 4736, 4742, 4748, 4754) may have a base shaped in an X-shaped cross-sectional pattern or a T-shaped cross-sectional pattern. The user may attach the coupling portion (4724, 4730, 4736, 4742, 4748, 4754) of the tool (4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) to the second interface (4042) or the third interface (4044) based on the surgical instrument (4034) to be removed.

[0292] Tools (4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) can be suspended from tool dispenser (4710) for subsequent retrieval. As shown, tool dispenser (4710) includes a nail plate (4760) including a recessed portion or hole (4762) supporting a protrusion (4764). Protrusion (4764) supports tools (4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722). However, a variety of suitable tool dispensers are also contemplated. Although the tools (4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) are shown extending horizontally, the tools (4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) may alternatively be arranged at a variety of other angles to be received by the robotic arms (4028, 4030). The tools (4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) may be selected by the controller (4046) to disassemble the surgical instrument (4034) based on the disassembly instructions. The disassembly instructions may be transmitted to the controller (4046) or another part of the robotic surgical system (4010). The disassembly instructions may be provided on the packaging material, as described below with reference to Fig.48 Shown and described.

[0293] E. Exemplary Surgical Kits

[0294] Fig.48 An exemplary surgical kit (4800) is shown, which includes packaging (4802), tools (4720), instrument information (4806), and surgical instruments (4808). The packaging defines an interior (4807) and an exterior (4809). For example, the surgical kit (4800) may include both a surgical instrument (4110) and tools (4036, 4038) for coupling and / or decoupling the surgical instrument (4808) to a robotic surgical system (4010). The surgical kit (4800) may include a variety of surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110) and tools (4036, 4038, 4210, 4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722). The instrument information (4806) may be in the form of disassembly instructions indicating a desired position and / or orientation of the surgical instrument (4808) for disassembly and / or in the form of a computer-readable code that can be read and interpreted by the controller (4046).

[0295] Surgical instrument (4808) may be similar to surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156). Surgical instrument (4808) may be configured to deliver ultrasonic energy, radio frequency ("RF") energy, or both. Surgical instrument (4808) may be configured to be hand-held or equipped with a corresponding portion of a robotic arm (see Fig.38 ). Similar to surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156), surgical instrument (4808) includes a body assembly (4810), a shaft assembly (4820), and an end effector (4830). The shaft (4822) of the shaft assembly (4820) extends distally from the body assembly (4810) to the end effector (4830). The surgical instrument (4808) differs from the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156) in that the surgical instrument (4808) includes a body assembly (4810) that is configured to be easily disassembled to expose at least one of a plurality of internal components for removal into a separate waste stream. Similar to surgical instrument (152), surgical instrument (4808) is configured to be capable of delivering ultrasonic energy. The body assembly (4810) surrounds a portion of the energy drive system (4840) and a portion of the circuit assembly (4850). The energy drive system (4840) includes an ultrasonic transducer (4842), a waveguide (4844), and an ultrasonic blade (4846). The energy drive system (4840) may also include a battery (4848) or a generator (150) configured to supply energy (see Figure 5). The ultrasonic transducer (4842) is positioned proximally within the body assembly (4810) and extends distally to the waveguide (4844). The waveguide (4844) extends distally through the shaft assembly (4820) to the ultrasonic blade (4846). The circuit assembly (4850) includes a main circuit board (4852), a memory component (4854), and a controller (4856). The recyclable components may include portions of the body assembly (4810), the shaft assembly (4820), and / or the end effector (4830), including components of the energy drive system (4840).

[0296] The body assembly (4810) includes a plurality of selectively removable shield portions (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818). The shield portions (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818) are configured to provide support for the energy drive system (4840), the shaft assembly (4820), and the circuit assembly (4850). As shown, the shield portions (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818) include a first shield portion (4812), a second shield portion (4814), a third shield portion (4816), and a fourth shield portion (4818), but may include any number of shield portions (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818) that prevent access to the circuit assembly (4850) and the energy drive system (4840). Each shield portion (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818) is removably attached to another shield portion (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818). A user may remove shield portions (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818) to provide access to portions of the energy drive system (4840) and portions of the circuit assembly (4850) in a disconnected state (see Fig.49 ). Once accessed, portions of the energy drive system (4840) and portions of the circuit assembly (4850) can be disposed of in separate waste streams. The shield portions (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818) may include a gripping feature (4824). The shield portions (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818) also include a plurality of alignment features (4826) configured to enable each shield portion (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818) to be aligned with an adjacent shield portion (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818). In one example, the alignment feature (4826) includes a key (4828) and a keyway (4832). The key (4828) is sized to slide within the keyway (4832).

[0297] Fig.49 Shows Fig.48The surgical instrument (4808) is provided with the surgical kit (4800), but after being removed from the packaging (4802) of the surgical kit (4800) and after being disassembled using a disassembly feature (4804) included in the same packaging (4802) of the surgical kit (4800). In the disconnected state, the shield portions (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818) are separated from each other. Removal of the shield portions (4812, 4814, 4816, 4818) facilitates connection and removal of at least a portion of the proximal energy drive system (4840) and / or at least a portion of the circuit assembly (4850).

[0298] B. Exemplary Methods

[0299] Fig.50 Shows the disassembly Fig.37 Schematic view of an exemplary method (4910) of a robotic surgical system (4010). The method (4910) may include steps (4912, 4914, 4916, 4918, 4920, 4922, 4924, 4926, 4928, 4930, 4932, 4934, 4936, 4938, 4940, 4942). However, more or fewer steps are also contemplated.

[0300] At step (4912), the method (4910) includes activating a disassembly routine. In some versions, once the disassembly routine is activated, the remaining steps may be performed autonomously without any interaction by the user. For example, at the end of a procedure, the autonomous system may react to user input to disassemble the surgical instrument (4034). Specifically, the device code may be received by a controller (4046), which interprets the disassembly instructions based on the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808). The marking (4132) of the surgical instrument (4110) may be used to help the patient side cart (4012) locate a predetermined disassembly location. For example, at least one of the first and second housing portions (4124, 4126) may include a marking (4132) to indicate to the robot the position / orientation of the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808). In some versions, controller (4046) may sense information about surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) such that a disassembly action is performed based on the sensing, with or without subsequent user intervention.

[0301] At step (4914), the method (4910) includes determining whether the surrounding environment is unobstructed. The controller (4046) checks available contextual information before disassembly. For example, the controller (4046) may verify that the patient has left the operating table (4024) and that the personnel are located in a safe location away from the robotic surgical system. This determination may be performed using at least one of a sensor (4048) in the operating room (116), a badge proximity scanner, a laparoscopic camera, and a weight sensor on the operating table (4024). The badge proximity scanner may assess whether the user is present in the operating room (116) and where they are located in the operating room (116). If the surrounding environment is not unobstructed, then at step (4916), the controller (4046) may alert the user. The user may manually clear the alarm, or the robotic surgical system (4010) may continuously or periodically assess whether the surrounding environment (e.g., within the operating room (116)) is unobstructed.

[0302] If the surrounding environment is clear, then at step (4918), the method (4910) can determine whether the surgical instrument (4034) can be robotically detached. The robotic surgical system (4010) provides feedback on which surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) can be detached, and instructs the user to attach any one of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) and tools (4036, 4038, 4210, 4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) to the first, second, and third robotic arms (4026, 4028, 4030). If the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) cannot be disassembled by the robot, then at step (4920), the surgical instrument (4034) can be manually disassembled. For surgical instrument components that cannot be disassembled by the tools (4036, 4038, 4210, 4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) of the second and third robotic arms (4028, 4030), manual instructions can be displayed on a monitor located in the operating room (116).

[0303] In some versions, a first surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) has a first key and a second surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) has a second key; a controller (4046) of the robotic surgical system (4010) accesses a lookup table that informs the controller (4046) which key pattern to use for the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808). For example, a first generation device may utilize a first disassembly protocol or procedure. The second generation device has a different architecture than the first generation device. The robotic surgical system (4010) may uniquely identify the tool (4036, 4038, 4210, 4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) and select a desired disassembly method for a desired generation of surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808).

[0304] If the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) is capable of being robotically disassembled, then at step (4922), the controller (4046) may determine whether the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) is reusable. During disassembly, the robotic surgical system (4010) identifies appropriate recycling and disposal methods for the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) and the components contained therein. The robotic surgical system (4010) may optionally perform mechanical and / or electrical testing to determine whether the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) is capable of being reused or recertified. The controller (4046) is configured to perform at least one mechanical or electrical test on the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) to determine the reusability of the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808). The sensor (4048) is configured to sense an area around the robotic surgical system (4010). If the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) is not reusable, then at step (4924), the controller (4046) may instruct the first, second, and third robotic arms (4026, 4028, 4030) to reach a desired position. At step (4926), if the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) cannot be reused, the patient side cart (4012) disassembles the surgical instrument (4110) according to instructions from the controller (4046) to reduce space in the disposal device (4060). This can facilitate environmentally friendly disposal of the components in accordance with instructions.

[0305] If the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) is reusable, then at step (4928), the controller (4046) may instruct the first, second, and third robotic arms (4026, 4028, 4030) to move to a desired position. The predetermined position may assist in removing the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808). The robotic surgical system (4010) appropriately positions tools (4036, 4038, 4210, 4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) so that the first, second and third robotic arms (4026, 4028, 4030) do not collide and so that the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) and tools (4036, 4038, 4210, 4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) are appropriately positioned to interact with each other.

[0306] After positioning the first, second, and third robotic arms (4026, 4028, 4030), at step (4930), the controller (4046) may identify the desired disassembly features (4050, 4052, 4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224, 4310, 4410, 4510, 4610, 4612, 4728, 4734, 4740, 4746,4752,4758), and determining whether the desired disassembly feature (4050,4052,4214,4216,4218,4220,4222,4224,4310,4410,4510,4610,4612,4728,4734,4740,4746,4752,4758) is currently coupled to the robot arm (4028,4030). If the desired disassembly feature (4050, 4052, 4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224, 4310, 4410, 4510, 4610, 4612, 4728, 4734, 4740, 4746, 4752, 4758) is not currently coupled to the robotic arms (4028, 4030), then at step (4932), the controller (4046) may instruct the second and third robotic arms (4028, 4030) to disassemble. 4030 ) is coupled with a desired tool ( 4036 , 4038 , 4210 , 4712 , 4714 , 4716 , 4718 , 4720 , 4722 ) including the desired removal features ( 4050 , 4052 , 4214 , 4216 , 4218 , 4220 , 4222 , 4224 , 4310 , 4410 , 4510 , 4610 , 4612 , 4728 , 4734 , 4740 , 4746 , 4752 , 4758 ).

[0307] If the desired removal feature (4050, 4052, 4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224, 4310, 4410, 4510, 4610, 4612, 4728, 4734, 4740, 4746, 4752, 4758) is currently coupled to the robotic arm (4028, 4030) of the patient side cart (4012), then at step (4934), the controller (4046) may instruct The robotic arms (4028, 4030) are shown removing a portion of a surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) using a disassembly feature (4050, 4052, 4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224, 4310, 4410, 4510, 4610, 4612, 4728, 4734, 4740, 4746, 4752, 4758). For the surgical instrument (4808), the retrievable component may include a portion of the body (4112), the shaft assembly (4114), and / or the end effector (4116), including an ultrasonic component. For surgical instrument (4808), the retrievable components may include portions of body assembly (4810), shaft assembly (4820), and / or end effector (4830), including components of energy drive system (4840). Tool (4036) (and optionally tool (4038)) may apply a predetermined force, motion, or stroke to overcome a connection bias of surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808). A portion of the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) may be disassembled using a disassembly feature (4050, 4052, 4214, 4216, 4218, 4220, 4222, 4224, 4310, 4410, 4510, 4610, 4612, 4728, 4734, 4740, 4746, 4752, 4758) of a tool (4036, 4038, 4210, 4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) in response to instructions from a controller (4046).

[0308] At step (4936), the controller (4046) may label the package (4066) using the labeling device (4054). In some versions, the controller (4046) may assign a printed label (4064) representing one or more characteristics of the recyclable portion (4124, 4126) to the labeling device (4054). The package (4066) may be pre-labeled, or the label (4064) may be printed from the labeling device (4054), which may be part of the packaging system (4016) or the hub (4014). In some versions, the hub (4014) may identify the recyclable components (4128, 4130) being bagged and assign the appropriate bag and label.

[0309] At step (4938), the controller (4046) may instruct the second robotic arm (4028) and tools (4036, 4038, 4210, 4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) to place the parts into predetermined containers. The robotic surgical system (4010) may place the recyclable parts (4128, 4130) into appropriate packaging (4066). Different types of recovery containers are positioned next to the patient side cart (4012) to provide ease of use and increased efficiency to operating room personnel. The robotic surgical system (4010) may autonomously detect the disposal device (4060) and the first and second transport containers (4068, 4070). In some versions, an algorithm of the controller (4046) may identify the bag station location and autonomously move the recyclable parts (4128, 4130) to the appropriate location. The packaging device (4056), which may include a bag dispenser configured to dispense a flexible bag, interacts with the controller (4046) so that the robotic arms (4028, 4030) position a package (4066) that is automatically dispensed, opened, and closed when the recyclable components (4128, 4130) are positioned in the package. Autonomous bagging and sealing may facilitate proper post-operative disposal.

[0310] At step (4940), the method (4910) may also include sealing a package (4066) containing a portion (e.g., a recyclable component (4128, 4130)) of the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) using the sealing device (4058) in response to an instruction from the controller (4046). For example, the controller (4046) may instruct the second robotic arm (4028) and tool (4036, 4038, 4210, 4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722) and / or the third robotic arm (4030) and tool (4036, 4038, 4210, 4712, 4714, 4716, 4718, 4720, 4722)) to seal the package (4066). The sealing device (4058) can vacuum seal and / or heat seal the recyclable components (4128, 4130) of the surgical instrument (112, 152, 154, 156, 4034, 4110, 4808) within the package (4016) after surgery to prevent cross contamination and reduce the space around the packaging system (4066).

[0311] At step (4942), the controller (4046) may sort the packages (4066) according to the desired location / destination. The robotic surgical system (4010) may utilize location-based information to incorporate different disposal and shipping instructions based on country or regional differences and / or specific medical facility capabilities. The recyclable components (4128, 4130) in the packages (4066) and the disposable components in the disposal device (4060) may be sorted and disposed of differently depending on local regulations.

[0312] IX. Exemplary Introduction, Assembly, Use, and Disposal of a Surgical Kit in a Surgical Operating Room

[0313] As described above, objects used to penetrate the sterile field of a surgical operating room during a surgical procedure need to be properly sterilized; and objects that leave the sterile field after a surgical procedure generally require special consideration when handling for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing. In some cases, surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) may need to be assembled to a certain extent within a surgical operating room prior to exemplary use as described herein; and then require a certain degree of disassembly after exemplary use so that selective components can be disposed of, reused, and / or remanufactured. For example, prior to exemplary use of the instrument (152), the ultrasonic scalpel (168) may need to be properly coupled to the ultrasonic transducer (162) and / or the shaft assembly (164) may need to be properly coupled to the handpiece (160) within the operating room. In addition, after exemplary use, the ultrasonic scalpel (168) may need to be decoupled from the ultrasonic transducer (162) for appropriate handling as described herein.

[0314] Thus, in some cases, surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) may be introduced into a sterile field as a surgical kit, wherein the subcomponents require at least some degree of assembly prior to exemplary use. In addition to the subcomponents used to form surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156), such surgical kits may also include tools necessary for assembly, disassembly, and proper processing for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing of the instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) and their subcomponents. Figures 51A to 51F Exemplary introduction, assembly, use, disassembly, and disposal of surgical kit (5020) is shown.

[0315] Initially, if Fig.51A As shown in , prior to a surgical procedure, a surgical kit (5020) can be contained within the sealed and sterile interior of a storage bag (5025). The storage bag (5025) can have a non-sterile exterior so that non-sterile personnel can grasp the exterior of the storage bag (5025) in order to transport the surgical kit (5020) to a non-sterile room (5012) to prepare for a surgical procedure, as will be apparent to one of skill in the art based on the teachings herein. Additionally, the sealed and sterile nature of the interior of the storage bag (5025) can help ensure that the surgical kit (5020) remains properly sterile while being transported within the storage bag (5025).

[0316] In preparation for a surgical procedure, the surgical kit (5020) may be transferred from the non-sterile entry room (5012) of the operating room (5000) to the sterile field (5006), such as Fig.51B As shown. The surgical kit (5020) can be transferred into the sterile area (5006) via an appropriate portal (5008), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings herein. During such a transfer, a person within the non-sterile portal room (5012) can place the kit (5020) and bag (5025) into the portal (5008) and provide appropriate access to the interior of the bag while maintaining the sterile nature of the bag (5025). Next, sterile personnel within the sterile area (5006) can appropriately access the sterile interior of the storage bag (5025) and remove the surgical kit (5020) from the storage bag (5025) so that the kit (5020) is appropriately transferred into both the sterile room (5002) and the sterile area (5006), as shown. Fig.51B Thus, after being transferred from the non-sterile entry room (5012) into the operating room (5000), the kit (5020) may remain properly sterilized.

[0317] Sterile room (5002) can be substantially similar to surgical operating room (116) described above. Sterile room (5002) includes a surgical environment (5004), which can be substantially similar to operating table (114) described above. Additionally, sterile room (5002) also includes an assembly station (5005), which can include a sterile table and / or any other suitable structure, as will be apparent to those of skill in the art based on the teachings herein.

[0318] Go to Fig.51C Once the surgical kit (5020) is properly transferred into the sterile room (5002), the contents of the surgical kit (5020) can be accessed and placed on the assembly station (5005). In the current example, the surgical kit (5020) includes a surgical subcomponent (5022), a non-surgical subcomponent (5024), and a plurality of disposal bags (5026, 5028, 5030). The surgical subcomponents (5022) are intended to be assembled to form a surgical instrument substantially similar to the instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) described above. The non-surgical subcomponents (5024) may include portions of the surgical kit (5020) that are not intended to be used directly in a surgical procedure but are used for auxiliary purposes of a surgical procedure. For example, the non-surgical subcomponent (5024) may include tools for assembling and disassembling the surgical subcomponent (5022), a tray that can organize other components (5022, 5024, 5026, 5028, 5030), or other features desired according to the exemplary uses described herein. As will be described in more detail below, the disposal bags (5026, 5028, 5030) are configured to store the corresponding post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036) (see Fig.51D ) so that the post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036) can be removed from the sterile chamber (5002) while being properly sealed to prevent exposure to a non-sterile environment (5012, 5014).

[0319] Likewise Fig.51CAs shown in , after being appropriately assembled (pre-assembled, manually assembled within a sterile room (5002), and / or utilizing tools from a non-surgical subcomponent (5024)), the surgical subcomponent (5022) can be used in a surgical environment (5004) to perform a suitable surgical procedure on a patient, as would be apparent to one skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. The surgical subcomponent (5022) can form any suitable instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) described herein. Thus, the surgical subcomponent (5022) can be configured as a component of a computer-implemented interactive surgical system (100). For example, where the surgical subcomponent (5022) forms a removably coupled surgical tool (117) intended for use with a patient-side cart (120), the surgical subcomponent (5022) can be used in conjunction with a robotic system (110). As another example, where the surgical subcomponent (5022) forms a handheld smart surgical instrument (112), the surgical subcomponent (5022) may be manipulated by a surgeon and appropriately coupled with the hub (106) during exemplary use as described herein.

[0320] Go to Fig.51D , after proper use, surgical subcomponent (5022) may have been exposed to a patient, such that subcomponent (5022) requires special consideration. Therefore, surgical subcomponent (5022) and non-surgical subcomponent (5024) may be broken down and divided into post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036). Any suitable manner of disassembling subcomponents (5022, 5024) may be utilized as would be apparent to one of skill in the art in light of the teachings herein. Post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036) may be categorized based on the type of post-operative treatment contemplated for each category. For example, disassembled subcomponents (5022, 5024) that are expected to be reused or remanufactured may be classified into a first category of post-operative components (5032); when the disassembled subcomponents (5022, 5024) include electrical components that are expected to be disposed of, they may be classified into a second category of post-operative components (5034); and disassembled subcomponents (5022, 5024) that are expected to be disposed of but do not include electrical components may be classified into a third type of post-operative components (5036). Fig.51D At the moment shown in , certain disposable components may be further processed to prepare for proper disposal. For example, an internal power source (e.g., a battery) used as a surgical subcomponent (5022) may need to be fully discharged at this time.

[0321] Next, if Fig.51EAs shown, while still in sterile room (5002), the sorted post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036) can then be placed within respective disposal bags (5026, 5028, 5030). The disposal bags (5026, 5028, 5030) can then be sealed such that the post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036) are isolated from the external environment outside the respective bags (5026, 5028, 5030). The disposal bags (5026, 5028, 5030) can utilize any suitable sealing means, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings herein.

[0322] Next, if Fig.51D As shown, post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036) and corresponding disposal bags (5026, 5028, 5030) can be transported from chamber (5002) and sterile area (5006) to non-sterile chamber (5014) via outlet (5010). Thus, post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036) can then be transported to a suitable location for disposal, reprocessing and / or remanufacturing while remaining sealed from the external environment. In the event that components (5032, 5034, 5036) may have contacted a patient during a surgical procedure, these components (5032, 5034, 5036) will be prevented from being undesirably exposed to non-sterile chambers (5012, 5014).

[0323] Although in the current example, non-sterile inlet chamber (5012) and non-sterile outlet chamber (5014) are used in conjunction with inlet (5008) and outlet (5010), this is merely optional. In some cases, surgical kit (5020) and postoperative components (5032, 5034, 5036) are transported from / to the same non-sterile room (5012, 5014) and utilize the same inlet and outlet (5008, 5010).

[0324] Although disposal bags (5026, 5028, 5030) are used in the current examples, an appropriate disposal structure configured to properly support the corresponding components (5032, 5034, 5036) while isolating the components (5032, 5034, 5036) from the external environment during transportation may be used, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein.

[0325] X. Exemplary Apparatus and Methods for Determining and Extracting Disposal Instructions for Used Powered Surgical Instruments

[0326] As described above, after appropriate use of surgical subcomponents (5022), surgical subcomponents (5022) (e.g., portions of surgical kits (5020) used to form powered surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156)) may be disassembled into post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036) for disposal, reprocessing, and / or remanufacturing purposes. As an example, such post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036) may be categorized into components (5032) intended for reuse / remanufacturing, electrical components (5034) intended for disposal, and non-electrical components (5036) intended for disposal.

[0327] In some cases, there may be various criteria for classifying which used surgical subcomponents (5022) may be reusable / manufacturable and which surgical subcomponents (5022) are disposable. Additionally, there may be various criteria for appropriately handling / disposing of such reusable, manufacturable, and disposable surgical subcomponents; whether within a sterile environment when the surgical subcomponents (5022) are initially disassembled, or outside of a sterile environment when the surgical subcomponents (5022) are appropriately reprocessed, remanufactured, and / or disposed of, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. The criteria and / or recommended guidelines for classifying subcomponents (5022) as reusable or disposable may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Additionally, the reprocessing, remanufacturing, and / or disposal criteria and / or recommended guidelines may also vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Such criteria / guidelines for classifying, reprocessing, remanufacturing, disposing of, etc., used surgical subcomponents (5022) may be referred to as disposal method steps.

[0328] For example, in a first jurisdiction, an energized component (e.g., an electrode, a transducer, an ultrasonic scalpel, a battery, etc.) may be certified only for a first number of surgical uses (such as one surgical procedure); when in a second jurisdiction, the same energized component may be certified for reprocessing and / or remanufacturing for a different number of surgical uses (such as multiple surgical procedures). For another example, in a first jurisdiction, an electrical component may need to be fully discharged before being transferred to a corresponding disposal bag (5026, 5028, 5030); when in a second jurisdiction, the same electrical component may not need to be fully discharged before being transferred to a corresponding disposal bag (5026, 5028, 5030).

[0329] Thus, it may be desirable to retrieve a set of disposal instructions for processing the components of surgical kit (5020) following an exemplary surgical procedure described herein. Furthermore, it may be desirable to retrieve a particular set of disposal instructions for surgical kit (5020) based on any number of suitable variables, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings herein. For example, such variables may include, but are not limited to, the geographic location of the surgical procedure, the use of other surgical products in conjunction with surgical kit (5020), and / or performance data of surgical subcomponents (5022).

[0330] Fig.52 An exemplary surgical instrument (5040) and an exemplary treatment aid (5050) are shown, which may be used to Fig.53 It should be understood that although the exemplary surgical instrument (5040) and the treatment aid (5050) are used in the current example to perform the treatment instructions shown in the determination procedure (5060). Fig.52 The treatment instruction determination procedure (5060) is shown, however, any suitable surgical instrument may be used alone or in combination with any suitable treatment aid, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0331] Surgical instrument (5040) may be assembled from surgical kit (5020) such that surgical instrument (5040) is substantially similar to surgical subcomponents (5022) described above. Thus, surgical instrument (5040) may be assembled in operating room (5000) prior to use in a surgical procedure and then disassembled and sorted into various post-operative components (5032, 5034, 5036). In some cases, such disassembly may occur in operating room (500) after use in a surgical procedure.

[0332] The surgical instrument (5040) may be substantially similar to any of the surgical instruments / tools described herein, including the surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) described above. Thus, the surgical instrument (5040) is configured to be used in conjunction with the computer-implemented interactive surgical system (100) by coupling with appropriate components of the hub (106), such as the generator module (140), the communication module (130), the storage array (134), etc. In some cases, the surgical instrument (5040) may be handheld; however, in other cases, the surgical instrument (5040) may be configured to be appropriately coupled to the robotic system (110). In some cases, the surgical instrument (5040) may be used without being connected to the hub (1060), such that the surgical instrument (5040) includes its own power source, or such that the surgical instrument (5040) is coupled to a generator other than the generator associated with the hub (1060).

[0333] The surgical instrument (5040) includes a memory unit (5042) and a processing unit (5044); these two units can be used together as a control unit of the surgical instrument (5040). The memory unit (5042) is operable to store various information related to the performance of the surgical instrument (5040) during an exemplary surgical procedure described herein. The memory unit (5042) can also store data related to various components used to form the surgical instrument (5040). For example, the memory unit (5042) of the surgical instrument (5040) can store data related to what geographic location the instrument (5040) is sold and sent to. The memory unit (5042) can include data including a serial number that identifies the particular instrument (5040). The surgical instrument (5040) can include a QR code (5048). The QR code (5048) can include appropriate data required to identify the particular instrument (5040), as well as various appropriate information related to the particular instrument (5040), such as the geographic location where the instrument (5040) is sold and / or sent.

[0334] The apparatus (5040) further includes a communication module (5046) in communication with the processor (5044). The communication module (5046) is configured to establish communication with a corresponding communication module (5056) of the treatment aid (5050) so that data can be shared between the apparatus (5040) and the treatment aid (5050). The communication module (5046) can include any suitable communication means, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the communication module (5046) is configured to communicate via Bluetooth technology, near field communication "NCF", radio frequency identification "RFID", etc.

[0335] The handling aid (5050) may take any suitable form, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, etc. The handling aid (5050) may be used within the sterile field (5006) during disassembly of the surgical subcomponent (5022), as described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the handling aid (5050) may be used outside of the sterile field (5006) during reprocessing, remanufacturing, and / or disposal of the surgical subcomponent (5022), as described herein.

[0336] The disposal aid (5050) includes a memory unit (5052) and a processing unit (5054); these two units can be used together as a control unit of the disposal aid (5050). The memory unit (5052) may include a suitable application (e.g., a software product) that includes download and upload capabilities that can be used to access the cleaning and sterilization protocols described herein. The disposal aid (5050) includes a corresponding communication module (5056) configured to be able to communicate with the above-mentioned communication module (5046). The communication module (5056) may include any suitable communication method, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings of this article. For example, the communication module (5056) is configured to be able to communicate via Bluetooth technology, near field communication "NCF", radio frequency identification "RFID", etc.

[0337] The treatment assisting device (5050) also includes a display (5055) in communication with the processing unit (5054). The processing unit (5054) may instruct the display (5055) to display appropriate information to the user, such as information provided by running a suitable application described herein. The display (5055) may take any suitable form, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the display (5055) may be a touch screen. The treatment assisting device (5050) also includes a camera (5058) in communication with the processing unit (5054). The camera (5058) may be used to capture images and transmit the images to the processing unit (5054) so ​​that a suitable application can utilize the images according to the description herein. The camera (5058) may include any suitable components, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein.

[0338] In some cases, a treatment assistance device (5050) running an application may be configured to be connected to a hub (106) for use in conjunction with an instrument (5040) during a surgical procedure. Such an application may have limited permissions to the hub (106) such that a person utilizing the treatment assistance device (5050) and the corresponding application does not have access to any portion of the hub (106) other than relevant treatment instructions, cleaning, and / or sterilization information. Such a connection between the hub (106) and the application of the device (5050) may allow the device (5050) to communicate with interconnected hospital systems for operating room systems / inventory tracking, etc. Thus, once an instrument (5040) or other suitable instrument / component is used in a surgical procedure and scanned by the device (5050), the hub (106) may update the hospital system's inventory to identify the use of the instrument (5040) and / or other components. It should be understood that being "scanned" by device (5050) may include device (5050) utilizing camera (5056) to scan QR code (5048); establishing a connection between communication modules (5046, 5056); or any other suitable form of device (5050) obtaining data from instrument (5040), as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings herein.

[0339] In the event that the handling aid (5050) is used within an operating room (5000), the application used by the handling aid (5050) may communicate with a sterilization team located outside of the operating room (5000). Thus, when the handling aid (5050) scans the instrument (5040) and / or various subcomponents of the instrument (5040) to obtain appropriate reprocessing / handling instructions as described herein, the application running on the device (5050) may inform the sterilization team that the appropriate portion of the instrument (5040) intended for sterilization is to be transported to the sterilization team.

[0340] Similarly, the application utilized by the treatment assistance device (5050) can communicate with the maintenance team to notify the maintenance team when the equipment is ready for service. Thus, when the treatment assistance device (5050) scans the instrument (5040) and / or the various subcomponents of the instrument (5040) to obtain appropriate reprocessing / treatment instructions as described herein, the application running on the device (5050) can notify the maintenance team that the appropriate portion of the instrument (5040) intended for maintenance is ready for service.

[0341] In the event that the treatment aid (5050) communicates with the hub (106), the treatment aid (5050) and the hub (106) may be configured to be able to identify any lost or missing devices, such as instruments (5040), used during the procedure. For example, the hub (106) may be configured to be able to track what instruments (5040) or other devices were used during the procedure. During the treatment process, the treatment aid (5050) may be used to scan or otherwise process the instruments (5040) used in the procedure. The communication between the device (5050) and the hub (106) may allow the treatment aid (5050) and / or the hub (106) to compare which instruments (5040) were used during the procedure and which instruments (5040) were scanned for appropriate reprocessing / disposal. This comparison allows the device (5050) and / or the hub (106) to ensure that all devices have been accounted for. In the case of using an intelligent treatment system, the treatment assistance device (5050) can confirm appropriate treatment via communication with the intelligent treatment system.

[0342] In some cases, an application running on the treatment assistance device (5050) may connect to a remote server (113) and / or cloud (104) instead of the hub (106). As an example, some hospital systems may not have access to the hub (106). In such cases, the cloud (104) and / or remote services (113) may coordinate with an appropriate application on the device (5050) to provide cleaning, sterilization, and / or treatment protocols and provide step-by-step instructions in accordance with the teachings herein. In examples where an application connects to a remote server (113) and / or cloud (104), such an application may automatically connect the treatment assistance device (5050) to an appropriate manufacturer call center for assistance.

[0343] In some cases, an application running on the device (5050) may utilize location information to determine the country and / or region in which the device (5050) is being used. For example, an application running on the device (5050) may have an application location service that determines the location of use by utilizing any suitable means, as will be apparent to one of skill in the art based on the teachings herein. In some cases, an application running on the device (5050) may request that the user enter a location of use when establishing an application account on the device (5050).

[0344] In some cases, the instrument (5040) may not be connected to the hub (106) during the surgical procedure, such that the hub (106) does not collect performance data of the surgical instrument (5040) during the exemplary use. As described above, the memory (5042) of the instrument (5040) is operable to store various information related to the performance of the surgical instrument (5040) during the exemplary surgical procedure described herein. For example, such information may include device motor data, sensor data, faults experienced by the instrument (5040) during use, error codes, etc. In some cases, the application running on the device (5050) may be configured to be able to extract the performance data stored on the memory (5042) of the instrument (5040) via the communication module (5046, 5056). The application running on the device (5050) may then be configured to be able to upload the extracted performance data to the hub (106), the cloud (104), the remote server (113), etc. Without the use of hub (106), performance data may be extracted using a gateway to device (5050). Such extraction and uploading of data may be invisible to an operator utilizing device (5050) and may occur automatically once device (5050) establishes communication with instrument (5040) via communication modules (5046, 5056).

[0345] Fig.53 A determination program (5060) is shown that is configured to allow an instrument (5040), a generator module (140), and / or a hub (106) to identify relevant factors used by the instrument (5040), and then access or determine appropriate treatment method steps based on the identified relevant factors. The determination program (5060) can be used with any suitable device, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the determination program (5060) can be used in conjunction with the above-mentioned instrument (5040) and / or treatment auxiliary device (5050). For another example, the determination program (5060) can be used in conjunction with the instrument (5040) and the hub (106). For another example, the determination program (5060) can be used in conjunction with the instrument (5040) hub (106) and the treatment auxiliary device (5050). Although the determination program (5060) is shown and described in a particular order of steps, it should be understood that some steps may be completely optional. However, it should be understood that the order in which the steps are performed can be in any suitable order, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings herein.

[0346] As described above, the standards and / or criteria for the steps of the treatment method may be deviated depending on the location where the instrument (5040) is being used. Thus, a step (5062) in the determination procedure (5060) may include determining the location of the operating room (5000) where the surgery is being performed. The location of the operating room (5000) may be determined using any suitable means or methods, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, an application running on the treatment aid (5050) may be configured to be able to determine the country and / or region in which the device (5050) is being used; this may then be used to infer the location of the operating room (5000).

[0347] As another example, the instrument (5040) and / or the generator module (140) may have a device code and / or serial number that contains or provides access to a designated location to which the instrument (5040) is shipped for intended use according to the description herein. Where the device code and / or serial number is associated with the instrument (5040), when the instrument (5040) is coupled to the generator module (140) / hub (106) / cloud (104), the generator module (140) / hub (106) / cloud (104) may read the device code provided by the instrument (5040) to determine the intended location of use. In some cases, the generator (140) may be pre-programmed by the manufacturer with the intended location to which the generator (140) is to be shipped; such as using a program EEPROM code. In this case, the generator (140) may determine the location of use by referencing this pre-programmed information during exemplary use. Additionally, when the generator (140) is activated, the generator (140) may perform an initialization check to identify the location of use. Such location of use may be stored in the field service settings.

[0348] As another example, in addition to the device code and / or serial number, the generator module (140) and / or the instrument (5040) may include another identifier, such as an RFID chip, that would enable tracking of the sale of the product to determine its intended location of use. In some cases, the intended location of use determined by the manufacturer may be cross-checked with a suitable means of identifying actual use (some examples of identifying actual use are provided below). In the event that the intended location of use does not match the identified actual location of use, the hub (106) and / or cloud (104) may be notified to allow for special handling by the manufacturer device tracking.

[0349] As another example, a GPS device may be associated with an instrument (5040), a device (5050), a hub (106), a generator module (140), or any other suitable device, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art from the teachings herein. Once activated, the GPS device may determine the location of use and transmit that information to any suitable component, such as a hub (106), a generator module (140), a device (5050), and / or an instrument (5040). As another example, a hub (106) and / or a device (5050) may analyze the network to which they are connected in order to determine the location of use. As another example, a generator, a hub (106), and / or a device (5050) may have a hospital identifier that may determine the location of use. As another example, a hub (106) and / or a device (5050) may determine the location of use by connecting to a remote server (113) and / or a cloud (104). After connecting to the remote server (113) and / or the cloud (104), the hub (106) and / or the device (5050) may access a manufacturer-generated region code that specifies a location of use. As another example, the hub (106), the device (5050), and / or any other suitable component of the surgical system (100) may provide an interface that allows a user to select its region of use. As another example, the hub (106) and / or the device (5050) may determine the location of use using its associated IP address. As another example, the hub (106) and / or the device (5050) may determine the location of use using its software license.

[0350] After appropriately determining the use location (5062), the instrument (5040), hub (106) and / or device (5050) may then provide the location information (5064) to an appropriate application or device for determining and / or accessing appropriate treatment method steps. The provided location information (5064) may be utilized by the treatment assistance device (5050), remote server (113), cloud (104) and / or hub (106). It should be understood that providing the location information (5064) may occur at any suitable time in the determination procedure (5060), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, providing the location information (5064) may occur simultaneously with other steps in the determination procedure (5060). The information may be provided automatically or in response to a specific action; for example, the device (5050) scans the instrument (5040) or communicates with the instrument (5040) via the communication module (5046, 5056).

[0351] During a surgical procedure according to the description herein, the instrument (5040) and / or the hub (106) may track whether any other products are used in combination with the instrument (5040). For example, the instrument (5040) and / or the hub (106) may track whether there are any drugs, controlled substances, adjuvants, or any other suitable medical products, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. The use of such medical products may affect the standards and / or criteria for the treatment method steps used to process the instrument (5040) after the exemplary use. Therefore, a step (5066) in the determination procedure (5060) may include providing information about various related medical products used in combination with the instrument (5040). The instrument (5040), the hub (106), and / or the device (5050) may then provide such medical product information (5066) to an appropriate application or device for determining and / or obtaining appropriate treatment method steps. For example, the provided medical product information (5066) may be utilized by the treatment aid (5050), remote server (113), cloud (104), and / or hub (106). The information may be provided automatically or in response to a specific action; for example, the device (5050) scans the instrument (5040) or communicates with the instrument (5040) via the communication module (5046, 5056).

[0352] Although in the current example, the location information (5064) and the related medical product information (5066) are provided to help determine the standards and / or criteria for the treatment method steps, in some cases, only the location information (5064) or only the medical product information (5066) may be used to help determine the standards and / or criteria for the treatment method steps. In addition, any other suitable information may also be provided in combination with other parameters or alone. For example, performance data accumulated during the use of the surgical instrument (5040) accessed (5070) and uploaded (5072) as described herein may be provided to an appropriate application or device for determining and / or accessing appropriate treatment method steps.

[0353] The hub (106) and / or the treatment aid (5050) may access a selective lookup table (5068) including various local treatment method steps. Using the appropriate information (5064, 5066, 5070, 5072) provided, the hub (106) and / or the treatment aid (5050) selects an appropriate local treatment method step from the plurality of methods provided on the selective lookup table. The various standards and / or criteria for the local treatment method steps may be stored on any suitable device, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the lookup table may be stored on the cloud (104), a remote server (113), the hub (106), the treatment aid (5050), etc. Accessing the selective lookup table (5068) may occur automatically or in response to a specific action; for example, the device (5050) scanning the instrument (5040) or communicating with the instrument (5040) via the communication module (5046, 5056).

[0354] As described above, the instrument (5040) can store performance data on the memory (5042). In some examples, also as described above, when the instrument (5040) is scanned by the treatment aid device (5050) or communication between the instrument (5040) and the device (5050) is established via the communication modules (5046, 5056), such information can be accessed (5070) and uploaded (5072) to the cloud (104). The cloud (104) can store the uploaded performance data for various purposes. In some cases, when the hub (106) is not used during a surgical procedure, it may be beneficial to upload the performance data to the cloud (104) via communication between the instrument (5040) and the device (5050).

[0355] Having accessed the appropriate standards and / or guidelines for the local disposal method steps, the determination program (5060) may then display (5074) the local disposal procedure to the person responsible for performing the disposal method steps. The disposal procedure may include chronological instructions showing the disposal method steps. Such instructions may include how to disassemble the instrument (5040); which parts of the instrument (5040) are reusable and which parts of the instrument (5040) are disposable; how to properly prepare such parts for disposal or reuse; how to properly store such parts for disposal or reuse; and the like. Such a display (5074) may be displayed on an appropriate part of the device (5050) or the hub (106). The display (5074) may allow a user to scroll through the chronological instructions of the disposal method steps and indicate when each instruction is completed.

[0356] When personnel perform treatment method steps according to displayed standards and / or displayed criteria, the hub (106) and / or device (5050) may notify the sterilization team of incoming devices (5078) expected to be delivered to the sterilization team according to the displayed treatment method steps. It should be understood that such notification (5078) may be omitted in the event that sterilization personnel utilizes a determination procedure (5060).

[0357] XI. Exemplary Generator Storage Box with Reusable Power Cord and Sterilization Device

[0358] In some cases, the surgical kit (5020) described above has a power cord that is configured to electrically couple the surgical subcomponent (5022) to the generator module (140) so that the generator module (140) can power the surgical subcomponent (5022) during exemplary use according to the description herein. The power cord can also enable data to be communicated between the surgical subcomponent (5022) and the hub (106). In some cases, it may be desirable to make at least a portion of the power cord reusable with the generator module (140) rather than associated with the surgical kit (5020). Thus, after surgery, the portion of the power cord associated with the generator module (140) can remain associated with the generator module (140), and the portion of the power cord associated with the surgical kit (5020) can be classified as a post-operative component (5032, 5034, 5036) for reuse or disposal, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings herein.

[0359] FIG. 54A to FIG. 54C An exemplary power coupling assembly (5080) and a generator storage box (5090) that can be easily incorporated into a surgical kit (5020) and a generator module (140) are shown. The power coupling assembly (5080) includes a short power cord (5082) and a long power cord (5086). The short power cord (5086) can be associated with an instrument (5040) formed by the surgical kit (5020) so that the short power cord (5082) is packaged with the surgical kit (5020). The short power cord (5082) includes a coupling member (5084) that is configured to selectively establish communication with the long power cord (5088) and the generator module (140) via the coupling member of the long power cord (5086). When the short power cord (5082) is coupled to the long power cord (5086), the generator module (140) can actively power the instrument (5040) according to the description herein.

[0360] The long power cord (5086) is attached to the generator module (140) and is wound and stored internally within the generator storage box (5090) of the generator module (140) via a coupling post (5094). Since the long power cord (5086) remains associated with the generator module (140) and is configured to be coupled with the short power cord (5082), the long power cord (5086) can reduce the amount of disposal from the surgical kit (5020). In some cases, there is no short power cord (5082), so that the long power cord (5086) is directly coupled to the instrument (5040). In some cases, the device includes a detachable, reusable power cord having a connection connector positioned at the end of the handpiece. A physically unique key that may require multiple actions can be used to cut the connection. The connection can alternatively be cut by an electronically activated release mechanism, which can be activated by the user or the generator module (140).

[0361] The storage box (5090) may include a pop-up top with a box for power cord storage and multi-tool storage. The storage box (5090) may have a hook instead of a post (5094) around which the power cord (5086) is wrapped.

[0362] Storage box (5090) includes UV light (5092). After exemplary use and while long power cord (5086) is stored within storage box (5090), UV light (5092) can be used to sterilize long power cord (5086). FIG. 54A to FIG. 54C An exemplary coupling of power lines (5082, 5086) is shown. First, as Fig.54A As shown, the long power cord (5086) and coupling member (5088) are located in the storage box (5090). Next, as Fig.54B As shown, the coupling member (5088) can be removed from the storage box (5090). Finally, the coupling member (5084, 5088) can be coupled to the electric device (5040), as shown. Fig.54C shown.

[0363] XII. Exemplary Surgical Kits and Methods of Processing Medical Devices

[0364] In some cases, it may be desirable to recycle portions of a surgical instrument (e.g., surgical instrument (152, 154, 156) to reduce medical waste, which can reduce environmental impact and associated costs. To increase efficiency, it may be beneficial to separate the various components of the surgical instrument (152, 154, 156). For example, it may be beneficial to process different components in different manners (e.g., send different components to different locations). For components that cannot be recycled, it may be desirable to dispose of the component in an environmentally friendly manner. To assist personnel at a medical facility (e.g., a hospital), it is desirable to make the recycling and disposal processes as simple and straightforward as possible. This can improve the processing workflow within an operating room of a medical facility.

[0365] A. First Exemplary Surgical Kit

[0366] Figures 55 to 56A A first exemplary surgical kit (6010) is shown, which includes a surgical instrument (6012), an outer packaging (6014), a sterile packaging (6016), and a return packaging (6018). Surgical kit (6010) can provide initial sterile delivery of surgical instruments (6012), and also provide packaging for recovery or disposal of surgical instruments (6012). In some versions, sterile packaging (6016) or even outer packaging (6014) can be recovered to minimize contamination during return shipping and processing.

[0367] The surgical instrument (6012) may be similar to Figure 5 The surgical instrument (152, 154, 156) shown. For example, the surgical instrument (6012) may be similar to an ultrasonic surgical instrument (152), an RF electrosurgical instrument (154), a combined ultrasonic / RF electrosurgical instrument 156, or a surgical stapler (not shown). The surgical instrument (6012) may be attached to the surgical arm (123) of the robotic system (110), or may be similar to a handheld intelligent surgical instrument (112). The surgical instrument (6012) includes a plurality of parts configured to be separable from each other, which are shown as first, second, and third parts (6020a-c). As used herein, a part may refer to different positions of the same part or completely different parts. Although the first part (6020a) is shown to include an end effector, the second part (6020b) is shown to include a shaft, and the third part is shown to include a handle, these are not exclusive. The first, second, and third parts (6020a-c) may refer to a variety of different parts of the surgical instrument (6012). While first, second, and third portions (6020a-c) are shown, more or fewer portions are contemplated. It is also contemplated that certain portions of surgical instrument (6012) may still be disposed of as medical waste while other portions are recycled for subsequent use in a surgical instrument.

[0368] The first, second, and third parts (6020a-b) can be separated using a variety of different connection structures (e.g., mechanical, electrical, and / or magnetic connection structures). In some versions, the first, second, and third parts (6020a-c) of the surgical instrument (6012) can be destructively disassembled (e.g., using a laser or a breaking tool) after use of the surgical instrument (6012). For example, a breaking tool (not shown) can cause the first and second parts (6020a-b) of the surgical instrument (6012) to break along a predetermined breaking point. As shown, the first, second, or third parts (6020a-c) of the surgical instrument (6012) each include a machine-readable tag (6021a-c). As used herein, a machine-readable tag is intended to cover physical chips (e.g., RFID chips) and optical codes (e.g., QR codes or bar codes). As shown, the surgical instrument (6012) includes a host-readable tag (6023), which can be a machine-readable tag separate from the machine-readable tag (6021a-c). However, one of the machine-readable labels (6021a-c) may be used as the host-readable label (6023). The host-readable label (6023) may include information (e.g., serial number, production date, model number, etc.) about the entire surgical instrument (6012) and / or specific included parts (e.g., first, second, and third parts (6020a-c)).

[0369] The outer package (6014) includes a body (6022) defining an interior (6024) and an exterior (6026) and an optional cover (6027). Fig.55 In the closed configuration, the interior (6024) is completely enclosed. When the outer package (6014) is opened, the outer package (6014) is Fig.55 The closed configuration moves to Fig.56A In the open configuration, the user can remove the sterile packaging (6016) containing the surgical instrument (6012). In other words, the outer packaging (6014) is opened by the user in the open configuration to expose the interior (6024), thereby allowing access to the surgical instrument (6012) for surgical procedures. The interior (6024) of the outer packaging (6014) is formed by the inner surface (6028) of the body (6022) and the cover (6027).

[0370] like Fig.55 As shown, the inner surface (6028) of the cover (6027) includes a repositionable label (6030) configured to be coupled to the return package (6018). The outer package (6014) may include a signal blocking feature layer to prevent the machine-readable label (6021a-c, 6023, 6034) from being read by a code reader (6438, 6440) when the outer package (6014) is in a closed configuration (see Fig.59) to read. The user can simply remove the repositionable label (6030) from the cover (6027) of the outer package (6014) and place the repositionable label (6030) on the return package (6018), which can reduce the time for the user to locate, remove and position the repositionable label (6030). Alternatively, the repositionable label (6030) can be freely set within the interior (6024) of the outer package (6014).

[0371] The sterile package (6016) is configured to surround the surgical instrument (6012). The sterile package (6016) includes a body (6036) that defines an interior (6038) (see Fig.56A ) and exterior (6040). The sterile package (6016) is disposed in a closed configuration within the interior (6024) of the outer package (6014). In some versions, the outer package (6014) may be omitted, such that the return package (6018) is coupled to the sterile package (6016) or disposed within the interior (6038) of the sterile package (6016). As shown, the sterile package (6016) includes a recessed portion (6042) that is complementary to the size and / or shape of the component.

[0372] The return package (6018) is configured to receive at least one of the first portion (6020a), the second portion (6020b), or the third portion (6020c) of the surgical instrument (6012) after a surgical procedure. The return package (6018) can be completely disposed within the interior (6024) of the outer package (6014) in a closed configuration. Optionally, the return package (6018) can be coupled to the outer package (6014) in a closed configuration, coupled to the sterile package (6016), and / or disposed within the interior (6038) of the sterile package (6016). The return package (6018) can be connected to a specific location of the surgical instrument (6012) to improve disassembly. Fig.55 As shown in , the return package (6018) can be coupled to the outer package (6014) using a frangible portion (6050) that is configured to be cut by a user. In some versions, the frangible portion (6050) can include a string that, when pulled, weakens the frangible portion (6050) and forms a score therein.

[0373] The return package (6018) may be segmented to contain separate portions of the recycled components. The return package (6018) may include multiple separate return packages. Fig.56A As shown, the plurality of individual return packages include first, second, and third return packages (6044, 6046, 6048). However, more or fewer return packages (6044, 6046, 6048) are also contemplated. The first return package (6044) includes a body (6052) that defines an interior (6054) (see Fig.56B ) and an exterior (6056). The exterior (6056) includes a repositionable label (6058) and a machine-readable label (6060). Similarly, the second return package (6046) includes a body (6062) that defines an interior (6064) (see Fig.56B ) and an exterior (6066). The exterior (6066) includes a repositionable label (6068) and a machine-readable label (6070). The third return package (6048) is shown as a bag having opposed first and second ends (6072, 6074) that are sealed. The third return package (6048) includes a resealable flap (6076) that is configured to allow a user to insert the third portion (6020c) into the interior (6078). The resealable flap (6076) may include a label (6080).

[0374] Each machine-readable tag (6060, 6070, 6092) is coupled to at least one of the surgical instrument (6012), the outer packaging (6014), or the return packaging (6018). Fig.59 ) is configured to be able to read a machine-readable label (6060, 6070, 6092) from a surgical instrument (6012), an outer package (6014), or a return package (6018). For example, the return package (6018) may include a machine-readable label (6060, 6070, 6092) that is configured to be able to identify the surgical instrument (6012) using a code reader (6434, 6436). For example, the first, second, and third return packages (6044, 6046, 6048) may also include a machine-readable label (6060, 6070, 6092) that can be read by a code reader (6438, 6440). The machine-readable label (6060, 6070, 6092) may be used in addition to or in place of the machine-readable labels (6021a-c, 6023, 6034).

[0375] The repositionable tags (6058, 6068) and the label (6080) may include an optical code, such as a bar code or a QR code, that can be optically read by a code reader (6438, 6440). The repositionable tags (6058, 6068) and the label (6080) may include indicia (6082, 6084, 6086) to identify the surgical instrument (6012) or the first portion (6020a), the second portion (6020b), or the third portion (6020c) of the surgical instrument (6012). For example, the indicia (6082, 6084, 6086) may include at least one of a serial number, a model number, and / or an expiration date. Other indicia (6082, 6084, 6086) are also contemplated. For the third return package (6048), the label (6080) may be attached to one end of the resealable flap (6076) and may be closed by coupling the terminal end (6088) of the resealable flap (6076) to the third return package (6048).

[0376] In some versions, first return package (6044) may be initially coupled to second return package (6046). Fig.55 and Fig.56A As shown, the first and second return packages (6044, 6046) are coupled using a frangible portion (6094). The frangible portion (6094) can be manually cut by a user to maintain sterility. In some versions, the frangible portion (6094) can include a string (6096) that, once pulled, weakens the frangible portion (6094) and forms a score therein. As shown, the third return package (6048) is disposed within the interior (6024) of the outer package (6014) and is not coupled to the first and second return packages (6044, 6046).

[0377] like Fig.56BAs shown, the first return package (6044) is partially configured to receive the first portion (6020a) of the surgical instrument (6012). The first return package (6044) includes a recessed portion (6098) and at least one protrusion (shown as protrusion (6100)). The protrusion (6100) is configured to actively engage the first portion (6020a) of the surgical instrument (6012). Similarly, the second return package (6046) includes a recessed portion (6102) and at least one protrusion (shown as protrusion (6104)). The protrusion (6104) is configured to actively engage the second portion (6020b) of the surgical instrument (6012). The projections (6100, 6104) can be integrally formed with the corresponding return packages (6044, 6046), or the projections (6100, 6104) can be separate components coupled with the corresponding return packages (6044, 6046). The third return package (6048) is configured to receive the third portion (6020c) of the surgical instrument (6012). The recessed portions (6098, 6102) of the return package (6018) can provide multiple functions. For example, the recessed portions (6098, 6102) can provide rigidity to return the package (6018). The shapes and sizes of the recessed portions (6098, 6102) and the projections (6100, 6104) can be set to keep the first and second portions (6020a-b) when the surgical instrument (6012) is disassembled after a surgical operation. The recessed portions (6098, 6102) and the protrusions (6100, 6104) may improve the ability to separate the first and second portions (6020a-b) in a controlled manner.

[0378] B. Second Exemplary Surgical Kit

[0379] Fig.57 A second exemplary surgical kit (6210) is shown, which includes a surgical instrument (6212), an outer packaging (6214), a sterile packaging (6216), and a return packaging (6218). Surgical kit (6210) is similar to the surgical kit described above with reference to Figure 55 to Figure 56B The surgical kit (6010) is different from the sterile package (6016) described in detail below. Unlike the sterile package (6016), a portion of the return package (6218) is coupled to the sterile package (6216), and a portion of the return package (6218) is disposed inside (6238) of the sterile package (6216) (see Fig.58 ). In some versions, outer packaging (6214) may be omitted.

[0380] Surgical instrument (6212) is similar to surgical instrument (6012). Surgical instrument (6212) includes a plurality of portions configured to be separable from one another along a frangible portion (6219), namely, first, second, and third portions (6220a-c). In some versions, at least one of the first, second, or third portions (6220a-c) of surgical instrument (6212) includes a machine-readable label (6221a-c). Surgical instrument (6212) includes a host-readable label (6223) similar to host-readable label (6023).

[0381] Outer package (6214) is similar to outer package (6014). Outer package (6214) includes a body (6222) defining an interior (6224) and an exterior (6226). Fig.57 In the closed configuration, the interior (6224) is completely enclosed. When the outer package (6214) is opened, the outer package (6214) is Fig.57 The closed configuration moves to (similar to Fig.56A The interior (6224) of the outer package (6214) is formed by the inner surface (6228) of the body (6222).

[0382] The sterile package (6216) is similar to the sterile package (6016). The sterile package (6216) is configured to be able to surround the surgical instrument (6212). The sterile package (6216) includes a body (6236) that defines an interior (6238) and an exterior (6240). The sterile package (6216) is arranged in a closed configuration within the interior (6224) of the outer package (6214). As shown, the sterile package (6216) may include a recessed portion (6242) that is complementary to the size and / or shape of the component. Repositionable labels (6230, 6232) can be used to cover and mark the first and second parts (6220a-b) for transportation. Although not shown, a computer readable code may also be included for tracking. A portion of the surgical instrument (6212) may be returned to the sterile package (6216) after use.

[0383] The return package (6218) is configured to receive at least one of the first portion (6220a), the second portion (6220b), or the third portion (6220c) of the surgical instrument (6212) after a surgical procedure. The return package (6218) may be segmented to contain separate portions of the returned or recycled components. The return package (6218) may include a plurality of separate return packages. Fig.57As shown, the plurality of individual return packages include first, second, and third return packages (6244, 6246, 6248). However, more or fewer return packages are contemplated. The first return package (6244) includes a body (6252) defining an interior (not shown) and an exterior (6256). Similarly, the second return package (6246) includes a body (6262) defining an interior (not shown) and an exterior (6266). Fig.58 A repositionable label (6230) is shown attached to the exterior (6266) and a repositionable label (6268) is shown attached to the exterior (6256). The repositionable labels (6230, 6232) may include markings (6282, 6284) similar to markings (6082, 6084) that function as machine-readable labels as described above. Although not shown, the exterior (6256, 6266) may include additional machine-readable labels.

[0384] The third return package (6248) includes a flexible bag (6272). The flexible bag (6272) is configured to allow a user to insert the third portion (6220c) into the interior (6278) of the flexible bag (6272). As shown, the flexible bag (6272) includes a label (6280) containing a mark (6286). The return package (6218) includes a fluid-tight seal (6274) that is configured to prevent fluid from passing therethrough. The fluid-tight seal (6274) is configured to be able to transform from an open configuration for receiving the surgical instrument (6212) after the surgical operation to a closed configuration that prevents fluid from leaving the return package (6218). The mark (6286) may include one or more of a serial number, an expiration date, and / or a unique identifier that can be marked by the surgical robot hub (122) or recorded by the surgical robot hub (122) to indicate use, time of use, location of use, etc.

[0385] like Fig.58As shown, the first return package (6244) is configured to receive the first portion (6220a) of the surgical instrument (6212). The first return package (6244) includes a recessed portion (6298) and at least one protrusion (shown as protrusion (6300)). The protrusion (6300) is configured to actively engage the first portion (6220a) of the surgical instrument (6212). Similarly, the second return package (6246) includes a recessed portion (6302) and at least one protrusion (shown as protrusion (6304)). The protrusion (6300) is configured to actively engage the second portion (6220b) of the surgical instrument (6212). When the surgical instrument (6212) is disassembled, the recessed portions (6298, 6302) retain the first and second portions (6220a-b). The third return package (6248) portion is configured to receive a third portion (6220c) of the surgical instrument (6212) such that the third portion (6220c) may be processed while minimizing user contamination.

[0386] C. Exemplary Methods

[0387] refer to Fig.59 A method (6410) of treating a medical device (e.g., a surgical instrument (6012, 6212)) is shown and described. As shown, the method (6410) includes steps (6412, 6414, 6416, 6418, 6420, 6422, 6424, 6426, 6428, 6430, 6432). However, more or fewer steps are also contemplated.

[0388] At step (6412), the method (6410) includes applying at least one machine-readable label (6021a-c, 6221a-c) to a component (e.g., first, second, and third portions (6020a-c, 6220a-c)) of the surgical instrument (6012, 6212) using a marking device (6430). In some versions, the marking device (6430) may apply the machine-readable label (6021a-c, 6221a-c) using an indentation process or a laser etching process. Although the machine-readable label (6021a-c, 6221a-c) is described as being applied prior to assembly of the surgical instrument (6012, 6212), in some cases, the machine-readable label (6021a-c, 6221a-c) may be applied after assembly of the surgical instrument (6012, 6212). For example, the host-readable label (6023, 6223) may be applied after the surgical instrument (6012, 6212) is assembled.

[0389] At step (6414), the method (6410) includes sorting and assembling the components of the surgical instrument (6012, 6212). For example, the sorting may be performed using a sorting system (6436). Matched reusable components may optimize the performance and life of the surgical instrument (6012, 6212). The sorting system (6436) may include a visual system that can read machine-readable labels (6021a-c, 6221a-c) during the sorting step. An indication of the availability status of the component may be provided. The indication may be an alarm in the form of an audible tone or a visual indication. For example, the visual indication may include one or more colored lights on the assembly device. The machine-readable label (6021a-c, 6221a-c) indicates that a particular component (e.g., the first, second, and third parts (6020a-c, 6220a-c)) has been assembled into the surgical instrument (6012, 6212). Certain internal components have electronic chips that identify the specific components that can be read by a host readable tag (6023). The host readable tag (6023, 6223) identifies the component associated with the installation and use of the surgical instrument (6012, 6212). For example, the host readable tag (6023) can identify the presence of a camera nearby or at each station in the manufacturing facility that recognizes the machine readable tags (6021a-c, 6221a-c) and groups the components into surgical instruments (6012, 6212).

[0390] At step (6416), the method (6410) includes scanning the machine-readable label (6021a-c, 6023, 6221a-c) before the surgical kit (6010, 6210) leaves the manufacturer. At step (6418), the method (6410) includes shipping the surgical kit (6010, 6210) to a medical facility for subsequent use.

[0391] At step (6420), method (6410) includes opening the outer packaging (6014, 6214) and / or the sterile packaging (6016, 6216) to transform the surgical kit (6010, 6210) from a closed configuration to an open configuration. For example, a user at a medical facility may manually open the outer packaging (6014, 6214) and / or the sterile packaging (6016, 6216). The sterile packaging (6216) may be removed from the outer packaging (6214) in preparation for storage, or the sterile packaging (6216) may be removed from the outer packaging (6214) prior to use in a medical procedure. The surgical system (102) may identify when the packaging has been opened. For example, after the outer packaging (6014, 6214) is opened and the surgical instrument (6012, 6212) is removed from the outer packaging (6014, 6214), the signal from the machine-readable tag (6021a-c, 6023, 6034, 6221a-c, 6223) is no longer blocked by the outer packaging (6014, 6214). Before the cover (6027) is removed, the signal is blocked or otherwise contained. Once the cover (6027) of the outer packaging (6014) is removed, the signal from the machine-readable tag (6021a-c, 6023, 6034, 6221a-c, 6223) can reach the surgical robot hub (122).

[0392] At step (6422), the method (6410) includes scanning the machine-readable tag (6021a-c, 6023, 6221a-c, 6223) using a code reader (6440). The surgical robot hub (122) or another portion of the surgical system (102) may include the code reader (6440). The code reader (6440) may determine information about the entire surgical instrument (6012, 6212) or its components. Such scanning may be performed manually by a user or automatically by the surgical robot hub (122). Once the surgical instrument (6012, 6212) is assembled into the robotic system (110), the machine-readable tag (6021a-c, 6221a-c) may be scanned.

[0393] At step (6424), the method (6410) includes determining the status of various components. The status may include a coupling status (e.g., whether the surgical instrument (6012, 6212) is coupled to the robotic system (110)), a condition of the components of the surgical instrument (6012, 6212), and their availability for use. A controller (6442), which may be located in the surgical robot hub (122), may use the scan of step (6422) to determine usage information of the first, second, and third portions (6020a-c, 6220a-c). The controller (6442) may record the usage information on at least one of the cloud (104), the surgical robot hub (122), the controller (6442), or the machine-readable tag (6021a-c, 6023, 6034, 6221a-c, 6223) for later retrieval. This usage data may be sent to a central system of the manufacturer of the surgical instrument (6012, 6212) and / or to a database at the return facility for enhanced tracking.

[0394] At step (6426), the method (6410) includes providing an indication to the user regarding the coupling status of the surgical instrument (6012, 6212). The surgical system (102) can identify when the first, second, and third portions (6020a-c, 6220a-c) have been used. The surgical system (102) can identify whether the component makeup of a particular surgical instrument (6012, 6212) is acceptable or unacceptable, and can prevent installation if unacceptable. The indication can be an alarm in the form of an audible tone or a visual indication.

[0395] At step (6428), the method (6410) includes inserting the components into the return package (6018, 6218). In some versions, a packaging tray (which may be formed from a portion of the sterile package (6216) or a separate tray) may be used to help fill the first, second, and third return packages (6044, 6046, 6048, 6244, 6246, 6248) and / or prevent the contents (e.g., first, second, and third portions (6020a-c, 6220a-c)) placed within the first, second, and third return packages (6044, 6046, 6048, 6244, 6246, 6248) from spilling. At step (6430), the packaging tray may improve organization and reduce the overall time to prepare the first, second, and third return packages (6044, 6046, 6048, 6244, 6246, 6248) for subsequent shipment.

[0396] At step (6432), the method (6410) includes evaluating the returned portions of the surgical instrument (6012, 6212). Evaluating the returned portions (e.g., the first, second, and third portions (6020a-c, 6220a-c)) improves the process flow so that the portions can be evaluated and potentially reused. For example, the recycling system (6444) may tag the surgical instrument (6012, 6212) to track usage. Tracking may allow for more straightforward sorting of the portions (e.g., the first, second, and third portions (6020a-c, 6220a-c)) at a return location (e.g., a manufacturing facility or other return facility). The return location may scan the machine-readable label (6021a-c, 6221a-c) and sort the portions (e.g., the first, second, and third portions (6020a-c, 6220a-c)) according to a variety of criteria, including number of uses. Retrieval system (6444) may read usage information from surgical instrument (6012, 6212). The usage data may be on a memory (e.g., an EEPROM). Retrieval system (6444) may determine whether surgical instrument (6012, 6212) has been used. The memory may store record data regarding the use of surgical instrument (6012, 6212) and record component serial numbers. In some versions, surgical instrument (6012, 6212) may be physically tagged as described in step (6412).

[0397] XIII. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Having Alignment Features for Improved Assembly and Disassembly

[0398] As described above, objects used to penetrate the sterile field of a surgical operating room during a surgical procedure need to be properly sterilized; and objects leaving the sterile field after a surgical procedure generally require special consideration when handling for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing. In some cases, surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) may require at least some degree of assembly within a surgical operating room prior to exemplary use according to the description herein; and then require some degree of disassembly after the exemplary use so that selective components can be harvested for disposal, reuse, and / or remanufacturing. Therefore, in some cases, surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) may be introduced into the sterile field as a surgical kit, wherein the subcomponents require at least some degree of assembly prior to exemplary use. In addition to the subcomponents for forming the surgical instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156), such a surgical kit may also include tools for assembly, disassembly, and appropriate processing for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing of the instruments / tools (112, 117, 152, 154, 156) and their subcomponents.

[0399] In some cases, the proximal body of a surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), such as a handpiece (160, 176, 185), may contain internal components (such as electronics and / or batteries) that need to be processed separately from the rest of the handpiece (160, 176, 185) for disposal, reuse, or remanufacturing. Therefore, such internal components may need to be accessed and removed from the handpiece (160, 176, 185) after the surgical procedure but within a sterile operating room.

[0400] It may be desirable to provide a proximal body, such as a handpiece (160, 176, 185), having internal components that are accessible within an operating room. However, it is also desirable to ensure that the proximal body, such as a handpiece (160, 176, 185), is structurally strong enough to maintain its assembled form during exemplary use of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156). In other words, it may be desirable to selectively access the internal components of the handpiece (160, 176, 185) after exemplary use in a surgical procedure; and also to ensure that the handpiece (160, 176, 185) is not inadvertently disassembled during exemplary use in a surgical procedure.

[0401] Fig.60 An exemplary proximal body (7010) that can be easily incorporated into a surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) is shown. The proximal body (7010) includes a first shield (7012) and a second shield (7014) that are configured to be coupled together to form the proximal body (7010). As will be described in more detail below, the first shield (7012) and the second shield (7014) include complementary coupling features that are configured to prevent inadvertent disassembly of the proximal body (7010) during exemplary use, but also allow a user to separate the shields (7012, 7014) after exemplary use to collect internal components for disposal.

[0402] In the present example, the proximal body (7010) is shown as a hand piece, such that the proximal body (7010) can be used to replace the hand pieces (160, 176, 185) described above. The proximal body (7010) is configured to be appropriately coupled with a shaft assembly and an end effector, such as the shaft assembly (164, 178, 186) and the end effector (166, 180, 188) described above. The shields (7012, 7014) together define a hollow interior (7015) that, when properly assembled, can accommodate appropriate components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the proximal body (7010) may be configured to appropriately accommodate a circuit board, a control unit, a battery, an ultrasonic transducer (162), toggle buttons (173, 174, 175, 195, 196, 197), triggers (183, 194), etc.

[0403] In the current example, the shields (7012, 7014) include a plurality of aligned coupling sleeves (7036) that can receive friction fit coupling bodies (7034). The complementary coupling sleeves (7036) of each shield (7012, 7014) can receive a corresponding coupling body (7034) such that one coupling body (7034) is inserted into each complementary coupling sleeve (7036) of each shield (7012, 7014). The coupling bodies (7034) can help prevent the shields (7012, 7014) from becoming uncoupled in the lateral direction (LD) by creating a friction braking force between the coupling bodies (7034) and the corresponding coupling sleeves (7036). The coupling bodies (7034) and coupling sleeves (7036) can include any suitable geometric structures, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. In one aspect of the present invention, coupling body (7034) may include a plurality of circumferentially extending ribs that may further facilitate engagement between the inner surface of coupling sleeve (7036) and coupling body (7034). Coupling body (7034) may be formed from any suitable material, as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0404] The shields (7012, 7014) further include complementary support ribs (7038) lining the perimeter of the inner surface of the shields (7012, 7014). The complementary support ribs (7038) of each shield (7012, 7014) are configured to receive each other in a nested manner so as to prevent the shields (7012, 7014) from being actuated vertically and longitudinally relative to each other when coupled together. Thus, the ribs (7038) engage one another to prevent the shields (7012, 7014) from being actuated vertically and longitudinally relative to one another. Fig.60 The lateral direction (LD) shown is displaced relative to each other.

[0405] The shields (7012, 7014) also include at least one latch assembly (7016). As will be described in more detail below, when the shields (7012, 7014) are properly coupled to each other, the latch assembly (7016) is configured to be movable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. When in the locked configuration, the latch assembly (7016) is configured to help the coupling body (7024) and the sleeve (7036) prevent the shields (7012, 7014) from lateral decoupling. When in the unlocked configuration, the latch assembly (7016) is configured to allow a user to at least initiate lateral separation of the shields (7012, 7014) so ​​that the user can overcome the friction braking force that prevents lateral separation of the shields (7012, 7014).

[0406] Each latch assembly (7016) includes a resilient latch (7018) extending laterally from one shield (7014), while the other shield (7012) defines a channel (7032) communicating with each other (see Figures 61A to 61E ) and inspection hole (7030). The resilient latch (7018) includes a resilient leg (7024) extending laterally away from its corresponding shield (7012). As will be described in more detail below, the cam surface (7020) is configured to engage a corresponding cam surface (7026) of the shield (7014) when the shields (7012, 7014) are laterally coupled together to drive the resilient leg (7024) of the latch (7018) from a relaxed position (see Fig.61A ) into flexion (see Fig.61B As will be described in greater detail below, locking shoulder (7022) is configured to engage a corresponding locking shoulder (7028) defined by shroud (7014) when shrouds (7012, 7014) are laterally coupled together to prevent shrouds (7012, 7014) from laterally uncoupling.

[0407] The resilient legs (7024) terminate in respective camming surfaces (7020) and locking shoulders (7022). The resilient legs (7024) are sufficiently flexible so that the legs (7024) can be moved from a relaxed position (see FIG. Fig.61A ) deflected to a flexed position (see Fig.61B In addition, the elastic legs (7024) are sufficiently elastic so that once the external force is sufficiently removed, the legs (7024) can return to a relaxed position (see Fig.61C ).

[0408] Figures 61A to 61E An exemplary coupling and decoupling of shields (7012, 7014) using a latch assembly (7016) is shown. First, as Fig.61AAs shown, a user can align shields (7012, 7014) so ​​that the resilient latches (7018) are vertically and longitudinally aligned with the channels (7032). It should be understood that when the latches (7018) and channels (7032) are properly aligned to couple the shields (7012, 7014) together, the complementary coupling sleeves (7036) of each shield and the complementary support ribs (7038) of each shield (7012, 7014) are properly aligned.

[0409] Next, if Fig.61B As shown, with the latch (7018) and channel (7032) aligned, the user can move the shields (7012, 7014) toward each other so that contact between the camming surfaces (7020, 7026) drives the resilient legs (7024) from the relaxed position to the flexed position. When the shields (7012, 7014) are further actuated toward each other, the camming surface (7020) of the resilient latch (7018) can remain engaged with the channel (7032), so that the channel (7032) holds the latch (7018) in the flexed position.

[0410] Next, if Fig.61C As shown, once the shields (7012, 7014) are fully coupled, the camming surface (7020) is advanced laterally past the portion of the channel (7032) that forces the resilient latch (7018) into the flexed position, causing the resilient leg (7024) to return to the relaxed position and the camming surface (7020) to enter the inspection hole (7030). With the camming surface (7020) within the inspection hole (7030), the locking shoulder (7022) is directly adjacent to the locking surface (7028), which defines a portion of the inspection hole (7030). The locking shoulder (7022) and the locking surface (7028) are directly adjacent to each other so that if the shields (7012, 7014) attempt to laterally disengage from each other, the contact between the shoulder (7022) and the surface (7028) will prevent the shields (7012, 7014) from lateral movement away from each other. Thus, when the locking shoulder (7022) and the locking surface (7028) are directly adjacent to each other, the resilient latch (7018) is in the locked position, as shown in FIG. Fig.61C It should be appreciated that latch assembly (7016) also assists in aligning shields (7012, 7014) when shields (7012, 7014) are initially coupled together, as well as maintaining alignment of shields (7012, 7014) during exemplary use.

[0411] When in the locked position, the user may utilize the proximal body (7010) in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, the user may manipulate the proximal body (7010) in order to properly control the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) to which the proximal body (7010) is coupled. With the latch (7018) in the locked position, the latch assembly (7016) enhances the structural robustness of the proximal body (7010) by further preventing the shields (7012, 7014) from inadvertently separating from one another.

[0412] After a user has finished using proximal body (7010) as described herein, it may be desirable to access the various components housed within hollow interior (7015) for further processing (e.g., disposal, reuse, remanufacturing, etc.). If a user wishes to access interior (7015) of proximal body (7010), the user may press down on the terminal end of the resulting latch (7018) via inspection hole (7030), as shown in FIG. Fig.61D Specifically, the user can press the resilient latch (7018) to flex the resilient leg (7014) so ​​that the locking shoulder (7022) is no longer directly adjacent to the locking surface (7028), thereby driving the resilient latch (7018) to the unlocked configuration. When the locking shoulder (7022) and the locking surface (7028) are separated from each other in the unlocked configuration, the latch assembly (7016) can no longer prevent the lateral separation of the shields (7012, 7014). Therefore, when the user presses down on the resilient latch (7018) through the inspection hole (7030), as shown in FIG. Fig.61D As shown, the user can simultaneously pull the portions of shields (7012, 7014) directly adjacent to latch assembly (7016) apart from each other, as shown. Fig.61E shown.

[0413] Once the shields (7012, 7014) are properly separated when the latch assembly (7016) is in the unlocked configuration, the camming surface (7020) of the resilient latch (7018) reengages the camming surface (7026) defined by the channel (7032). The engagement between the camming surfaces (7020, 7026) holds the resilient latch (7018) in the flexed position, allowing the user to further pull the shields (7012, 7014) apart. The user can further pull the shields (7012, 7014) apart, causing the resilient latch (7018) to leave the channel (7032), thereby allowing the latch (7018) to return to the relaxed position.

[0414] It should be appreciated that the resistance to lateral uncoupling of the shields (7012, 7014) provided by the latch assembly (7016) can be controlled, depending on whether the latch assembly (7016) is in a locked configuration or an unlocked configuration. Thus, if a user desires to uncouple the shields (7012, 7014) in accordance with the teachings herein, the user can drive the resilient latch (7018) to a flexed position such that the locking shoulder (7022) and the locking surface (7028) separate from each other. Otherwise, the resilient latch (7018) will remain in the locked configuration, as shown in FIG. Fig.61C As shown, the locking shoulder (7022) and the locking surface (7028) prevent the accidental uncoupling of the shields (7012, 7014). In other words, the latch assembly (7016) allows the user to easily uncouple the shields (7012, 7014) from each other; wherein the shields (7012, 7014) remain structurally strong in the locked configuration, while the shields (7012, 7014) are easy to separate in the unlocked configuration.

[0415] If the shields (7012, 7014) of the proximal body are fully coupled together using the friction braking force provided by the coupling body (7034) and the coupling sleeve (7036), the lateral decoupling force required to pull the shields (7012, 7014) apart can be substantially constant, regardless of whether the user wishes to keep the shields (7012, 7014) together or separate the shields (7012, 7014) to access the internal components. In this case, it may be necessary to select a friction braking force that is structurally strong enough to keep the shields (7012, 7014) together during exemplary use, but difficult to access from the inside; or select a friction braking force that allows the shields (7012, 7014) to be easily decoupled, but also makes the shields (7012, 7014) susceptible to lateral decoupling during exemplary use.

[0416] Although two latch assemblies (7016) are shown in the current example, any suitable number of latch assemblies (7016) may be used, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, a single latch assembly (7016) may be used. Additionally, latch assembly (7016) is shown as being positioned on top of proximal body (7010); latch assembly (7016) may be placed at any suitable location or combination of locations on proximal body (7010), as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0417] While latch assembly (7016) is used to provide structural robustness during exemplary use and internal access after exemplary use to access internal components, any other suitable structure may be used, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Fig.62 Another exemplary proximal body (7040) that can be easily incorporated into a surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) is shown. The proximal body (7040) includes a first shield (7042) and a second shield (7044) that are configured to be coupled together to form the proximal body (7040). As will be described in more detail below, the first shield (7042) and the second shield (7044) include complementary coupling features that are configured to prevent inadvertent disassembly of the proximal body (7040) during exemplary use, but also allow a user to separate the shields (7042, 7044) after the exemplary use to collect internal components for disposal.

[0418] In the present example, the proximal body (7040) is shown as a hand piece, such that the proximal body (7040) can be used to replace the hand pieces (160, 176, 185) described above. The proximal body (7040) is configured to be appropriately coupled with a shaft assembly and an end effector, such as the shaft assembly (164, 178, 186) and the end effector (166, 180, 188) described above. The shields (7042, 7044) together define a hollow interior (7045) that, when assembled, can accommodate appropriate components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the proximal body (7040) may be configured to appropriately accommodate a circuit board, a control unit, a battery, an ultrasonic transducer (162), toggle buttons (173, 174, 175, 195, 196, 197), triggers (183, 194), etc.

[0419] Similar to the above-described shields (7012, 7014), the shields (7042, 7044) further include complementary support ribs (7058) lining the periphery of the inner surface of the shields (7042, 7044). The complementary support ribs (7058) of each shield (7042, 7044) are configured to receive each other in a nested manner so as to prevent the shields (7042, 7044) from being actuated vertically and longitudinally relative to each other when coupled together. Thus, the ribs (7058) engage one another to prevent the shields (7042, 7044) from being actuated vertically and longitudinally relative to one another. Fig.62 The lateral direction (LD) shown is displaced relative to each other.

[0420] In place of the latch assembly (7016), the shield (7042) includes a plurality of female threaded coupling sleeves (7046); and the shield (7044) defines a plurality of corresponding through holes (7050). The through holes (7050) and the corresponding female threaded coupling sleeves (7046) are configured to receive corresponding threaded torque screws (7052). The through holes (7050) are sized to be large enough to receive the threaded shafts (7054) of the corresponding torque screws (7052), but not large enough to allow the heads (7056) of the torque screws (7052) to travel through the through holes (7050). In addition, the threaded shaft (7054) is configured to engage the threads of the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046) so that rotation of the threaded shaft (7054) relative to the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046) actuates the threaded shaft (7054) longitudinally relative to the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046) and the shield (7042). The torsion screw (7052) is sized so that when properly coupled, the head (7056) abuts against the surface of the shield (7044), thereby pressing the shields (7042, 7044) together; while the threaded engagement between the threaded shaft (7054) and the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046) prevents the torsion screw (7052) from separating from the shield (7042). Therefore, a user can insert the threaded shaft (70454) into the corresponding through hole (7050) until the threaded shaft (7054) engages the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046). Next, the user may then rotate the torsion screw (7052) at the head (7056) with an appropriate torque until the torsion screw (7052) properly couples the shields (7042, 7044) together. Thus, during exemplary use, the torsion screw (7052) may prevent the shields (7042, 7044) from separating from each other in the lateral direction (LD).

[0421] After exemplary use, the user may remove the threaded torque screws (7052) from the shields (7042, 7044) to allow the shields (7042, 7044) to be easily uncoupled in the lateral direction (LD) to harvest the internal components for processing. The user may apply torque to the head (7056) of each torque screw (7052) until the threaded shaft (7054) is uncoupled from the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046). After all torque screws (7052) are uncoupled from their respective female threaded coupling sleeves (7046), the user may laterally uncouple the shields (7042, 7044) to provide access to the internal components. Thus, the torsion screw (7052), the female threaded coupling sleeve (7046) and the through hole (7050) allow a user to easily decouple the shields (7042, 7044) from each other; wherein, when the torsion screw (7052) is properly assembled, the shields (7042, 7044) remain structurally strong, and when the torsion screw (7052) is properly separated, the shields (7042, 7044) are easily separated.

[0422] In some aspects of the present disclosure, shields (7042, 7044) may include suitable through holes (7056) and coupling bodies (7034); along with the use of female threaded coupling sleeves (7046), through holes (7050), and torsion screws (7052). Any suitable combination of coupling bodies (7034) and torsion screws (7052) may be used, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the teachings herein.

[0423] Fig.63 Another exemplary proximal body (7060) that can be easily incorporated into a surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) is shown. The proximal body (7060) includes a first shield (7062) and a second shield (7064) that are configured to be coupled together to form the proximal body (7060). As will be described in more detail below, the first shield (7062) and the second shield (7064) include complementary coupling features that are configured to prevent inadvertent disassembly of the proximal body (7060) during exemplary use, but also allow a user to separate the shields (7062, 7064) after the exemplary use to collect internal components for disposal.

[0424] In the present example, the proximal body (7060) is shown as a hand piece, such that the proximal body (7060) can be used to replace the hand pieces (160, 176, 185) described above. The proximal body (7060) is configured to be appropriately coupled with a shaft assembly and an end effector, such as the shaft assembly (164, 178, 186) and the end effector (166, 180, 188) described above. The shields (7062, 7064) together define a hollow interior (7065) that, when assembled, can accommodate appropriate components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the proximal body (7060) may be configured to appropriately accommodate a circuit board, a control unit, a battery, an ultrasonic transducer (162), toggle buttons (173, 174, 175, 195, 196, 197), a trigger (183, 194), etc.

[0425] Instead of having a latch assembly (7016) or a torsion screw (7052), the shields (7062, 7064) include a vertical coupling assembly (7066). The vertical coupling assembly (7066) is configured to allow the shields (7062, 7064) to be vertically actuated relative to each other for proper coupling and decoupling. The vertical coupling assembly (7066) includes a plurality of first coupling bodies (7068) extending from the first shield (7062) and a plurality of corresponding second coupling bodies (7070) extending from the second shield (7064) toward the first shield (7062).

[0426] like Fig.64A As best shown in FIG. 1 , the first coupling body (7068) defines a complementary channel (7080) extending from a top surface of the first coupling body (7068) and terminating in a magnetic base plate (7082). The first coupling body (7068) further defines a slot (7084) in communication with the channel (7080), such that the slot (7084) and the channel (7080) are sized to receive a corresponding second coupling body (7070).

[0427] The second coupling body (7070) includes a narrow portion (7072) terminating in a widened portion (7074). The second coupling body (7070) also includes a magnetic surface (7076) that is configured to be directly adjacent to and / or in contact with the magnetic base plate (7082) of the first coupling body (7068). The narrow portion (7072) extends away from the sheath (7064) and is sized to fit appropriately within the groove (7084) defined by the first coupling body (7068). The widened portion (7074) is sized to fit within the complementary channel (7080) defined by the first coupling body (7068). When Fig.64BWhen properly coupled as shown in , the groove (7084) and the channel (7080) are configured to prevent relative movement between the shields (7062, 7064) with the complementary geometry of the narrow portion (7072) and the widened portion (7074), respectively, while being properly coupled in every direction except the vertical direction. In addition, the magnetic surface (7076) and the magnetic base plate (7082) are magnetically attracted toward each other, so that when the first and second coupling bodies (7068, 7070) are coupled to each other, the magnetic attraction between the surface (7076) and the base plate (7082) prevents the second coupling body (7070) from being vertically actuated away from the confines of the first coupling body (7068); thereby also preventing relative movement between the shields (7062, 7064) in the vertical direction.

[0428] It should be appreciated that the magnetic attraction between the base plate (7082) and the surface (7076) is suitably strong enough so that the shields (7062, 7064) do not inadvertently separate from one another during exemplary use according to the description herein. However, when a user wishes to intentionally decouple the shields (7072, 7064) from one another to access the hollow interior (7065) in order to harvest the internal components for processing, the magnetic attraction between the base plate (7082) and the surface (7076) can be overcome with a sufficient amount of force in the vertical direction. In other words, the shields (7062, 7064) remain structurally strong during exemplary use, while the shields (7062, 7064) readily separate in response to sufficient force in the vertical direction via the coupling assembly (7066), which allows the user to easily decouple the shields (7062, 7064) from one another. It should be appreciated that, in the vertical direction, coupling assembly (7066) also assists in aligning shields (7062, 7064) when shields (7062, 7064) are initially coupled together, as well as maintaining alignment of shields (7062, 7064) during exemplary use.

[0429] While magnetic attraction is used in the current example to prevent relative movement between shields (7062, 7064) in the vertical direction, any other suitable structure may be utilized to prevent relative vertical movement, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. FIG. 65A to FIG. 65B An alternative coupling assembly (7090) is shown that can be easily incorporated into shrouds (7062, 7064) in place of coupling assembly (7066) described above. Thus, coupling assembly (7090) is substantially similar to coupling assembly (7066) described above, but with the differences detailed below.

[0430] Specifically, the coupling assembly (7090) includes a resilient nub (7092) associated with the outer surface of the second body (7070) instead of a magnet; while the coupling assembly (7090) also includes a corresponding recess (7094) defined by the inner surface of the first coupling body (7068). The resilient nub (7092) and the recess (7094) are sized to interact with each other so that when they are coupled together, the friction braking force between the resilient nub (7092) and the recess (7094) prevents relative movement between the first body (7068) and the second body (7070). However, when a user wishes to intentionally decouple the sheaths (7072, 7064) from each other to access the hollow interior (7065) in order to harvest the internal components for processing, the friction braking force between the resilient nub (7092) and the recess (7094) can be overcome with a sufficient amount of force in the vertical direction. In other words, coupling assembly (7090) allows a user to easily decouple shields (7062, 7064) from one another; wherein shields (7062, 7064) remain structurally strong during exemplary use, while shields (7062, 7064) readily separate in response to sufficient force in a vertical direction.

[0431] Fig.66 Another exemplary proximal body (7100) that can be easily incorporated into a surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) is shown. The proximal body (7100) includes a first shield (7102) and a second shield (7104) that are configured to be coupled together to form the proximal body (7100). As will be described in more detail below, the first shield (7102) and the second shield (7104) include complementary coupling features that are configured to prevent inadvertent disassembly of the proximal body (7100) during exemplary use, but also allow a user to separate the shields (7102, 7104) after the exemplary use to collect internal components for disposal.

[0432] In the present example, the proximal body (7100) is shown as a hand piece, such that the proximal body (7100) can be used to replace the hand pieces (160, 176, 185) described above. The proximal body (7100) is configured to be appropriately coupled with a shaft assembly and an end effector, such as the shaft assembly (164, 178, 186) and the end effector (166, 180, 188) described above. The shields (7102, 7104) together define a hollow interior (7105) that, when assembled, can accommodate appropriate components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. For example, the proximal body (7100) may be configured to appropriately accommodate a circuit board, a control unit, a battery, an ultrasonic transducer (162), toggle buttons (173, 174, 175, 195, 196, 197), a trigger (183, 194), etc.

[0433] Each shield (7102, 7104) in this embodiment includes corresponding complementary support ribs (7106, 7108), which can be substantially similar to the complementary support ribs (7038) described above. Each complementary support rib (7106, 7108) acts as an inner lining on the periphery of the inner surface of the corresponding shield (7102, 7104) and extends away from the corresponding recessed surface (7110, 7112). The shields (7102, 7104) are configured to be coupled together via lateral movement relative to each other. During coupling, as shown in FIG. FIG. 67A to FIG. 67B As shown, the complementary support ribs (7106, 7108) of each shield (7102, 7104) are configured to receive each other in a nested manner, such that the support rib (7106) abuts against the recessed surface (7112), and such that the support rib (7108) abuts against the recessed surface (7110). When the shields (7102, 7104) are properly coupled, the nested engagement between the support ribs (7106, 7108) prevents the shields (7102, 7104) from being vertically and longitudinally actuated relative to each other when coupled together. Therefore, the ribs (7106, 7108) engage with each other to prevent the shields (7102, 7104) from moving relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the lateral direction (LD).

[0434] The shields (7102, 7104) further include respective magnets (7114, 7116) located on the surface (7110) and support ribs (7108) of the respective shields (7102, 7104). Although in the current aspects of the present disclosure, the magnets (7114, 7116) are shown as being located on the surface (7110) and support ribs (7108), this is merely optional, as the magnets (7114, 7116) may be located on any suitable component of the shields (7102, 7104), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. The magnets (7114, 7116) are magnetically attracted toward each other so that when the support ribs (7106, 7108) are nested in each other, the magnetic attraction between the magnets (7114, 7116) prevents the support ribs (7106, 7108) from being laterally actuated and disengaged from each other, thereby also preventing relative movement between the shields (7102, 7104) in the lateral direction.

[0435] It should be appreciated that the magnetic attraction between the magnets (7114, 7116) is suitably strong enough so that the shields (7102, 7104) do not inadvertently separate from one another during exemplary use according to the description herein. However, when a user wishes to intentionally decouple the shields (7102, 7104) from one another to gain access to the hollow interior (7105) in order to harvest the internal components for processing, the magnetic attraction between the magnets (7114, 7116) can be overcome with a sufficient amount of force in the lateral direction. In other words, the magnets (7114, 7116) allow a user to easily decouple the shields (7102, 7104) from one another; wherein the shields (7102, 7104) remain structurally strong during exemplary use, while the shields (7102, 7104) readily separate in response to sufficient force in the vertical direction.

[0436] While magnetic attraction is used in the current example to prevent relative movement between shields (7102, 7104) in a lateral direction, any other suitable structure may be utilized to prevent relative vertical movement, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. FIG. 68A to FIG. 68B An alternative coupling assembly (7120) is shown which may be easily incorporated into the shield (7102, 7104) in place of the magnets (7114, 7116) described above.

[0437] The coupling assembly (7120) includes a resilient nub (7122) associated with the outer surface of the support rib (7108) instead of a magnet; and the coupling assembly (7120) also includes a corresponding recess (7124) defined by a complementary surface of the support rib (7106). The resilient nub (7122) and the recess (7124) are sized to interact with each other so that when they are coupled together, the friction braking force between the resilient nub (7122) and the recess (7124) prevents relative movement between the support ribs (7106, 7108). However, when a user wishes to intentionally decouple the sheaths (7102, 7104) from each other to access the hollow interior (7105) in order to harvest the internal components for processing, the friction braking force between the resilient nub (7122) and the recess (7124) can be overcome with a sufficient amount of force in the lateral direction. In other words, coupling assembly (7120) allows a user to easily decouple shields (7102, 7104) from one another; wherein shields (7102, 7104) remain structurally strong during exemplary use, while shields (7102, 7104) readily separate in response to sufficient force in a lateral direction.

[0438] In some circumstances, where the proximal body (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100) is intended to be processed for reuse or remanufacture, it may be desirable to prevent the shields (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) from being reassembled with each other or with other suitable components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) coupled to the proximal body (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100) if key components forming the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156) are deformed or exceed specified tolerances. For example, one or more features of the shield (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) or other suitable components may be used as a blocking device to prevent reassembly in the event that such features become distorted or damaged outside of an acceptable tolerance range. As an example, a clamp trigger similar to the trigger (183) described above may be coupled to the proximal body (7010) via a coupling body (7034) and a coupling sleeve (7036). During exemplary use, forces acting on the trigger (183) during pivotal movement of the trigger (183) may cause damage to the coupling sleeve (7036) and / or the trigger (183), which would prevent reassembly once the shield (7012, 7014) has been properly processed for reuse (e.g., sterilized).

[0439] As described above, in some cases, after an exemplary use of the proximal body (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100), the shield (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) can be processed for reuse and / or remanufacturing. Also as described above, the hollow interior (7015, 7045, 7065, 7105) can accommodate suitable components of the surgical instrument / tool ​​(112, 117, 152, 154, 156), such as a circuit board and a control unit, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. Therefore, where electrical components are contained within the hollow interior (7015, 7045, 7065, 7105), it may be desirable to ensure that such electrical components are properly removed from the shrouds (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) before the shrouds (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) are processed for reuse and / or remanufacturing. Ensuring that electrical components are properly removed before the shrouds (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) are processed may prevent such electrical components from being inadvertently exposed to substances used during processing that may damage the electrical components and / or render them unsuitable for further use.

[0440] FIG. 69A to FIG. 69B An exemplary proximal body (7130) is shown, which can be substantially similar to the proximal bodies (7010, 7040, 7060, 7100) described above, with the differences being described in detail below. Thus, the proximal body (7130) includes a first shield (7132) and a second shield (7134), which can be substantially similar to the shields (7012, 7014, 7042, 7044, 7062, 7064, 7102, 7104) described above, with the differences being described in detail below. The shields (7132, 7134) together define a hollow interior (7135). The shield (7134) includes a bias spring (7138) interposed between an inner surface of the shield (7134) and a suitable electrical component (7136). When the shields (7132, 7134) are assembled, as described above, the proximal body (7130) can be provided with a plurality of proximal shrouds (7132, 7134). Fig.69A As shown, the biasing spring (7138) biases the electrical component (7136) against the first shield (7132) or any other suitable structure, thereby forcing the electrical component (7136) into a proper position within the hollow interior (7135).

[0441] After exemplary use, shields (7132, 7134) may be disassembled for disposal in accordance with the teachings herein. During disassembly, proximal body (7130) may be disassembled to remove electrical components (7136) from shield (7134) such that electrical components (7136) are not inadvertently disposed of with shield (7134). Fig.69B As shown, once the shields (7132, 7134) are removed, the bias spring (7138) drives the electrical component (7136) away from the shield (7134), so that the electrical component (7136) is prominently presented to the user who removes the proximal body (7130). Thus, the bias spring (7138) helps drive the electrical component (7136) to the exposed position, so that the person who removes the proximal body (7130) can be reminded to further remove the electrical component (7136).

[0442] In some cases, it may be desirable to prevent a user handling shields (7132, 7134) for reuse and / or remanufacturing from inadvertently immersing electrical components (7136) into a dip tray during handling. FIG. 70A to FIG. 71B An exemplary impregnation tray (7140) is shown that can be used to process shields (7132, 7134) by exposing the used shields (7132, 7134) to a suitable cleaning fluid to clean the shields (7132, 7134). The impregnation tray (7140) includes a body (7142) that defines a reservoir (7146) that can hold a suitable cleaning fluid. The impregnation tray (7140) also includes a perimeter (7144) that defines an opening that is sized to receive the shield (7134) for processing. FIG. 70A to FIG. 70B As shown, perimeter (7144) is sized to have a particular geometry that may prevent shield (7134) from being properly received within reservoir (7146) if elec...

Claims

1. A method for disassembling a surgical instrument, the surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly and comprising: (i) a first shield portion, (ii) a second shield portion, and (iii) a shield coupler configured to removably attach the first shield portion to the second shield portion in a connected state, wherein the shield coupler is further configured to detach the first shield portion from the second shield portion in a disconnected state; (d) an internal assembly housed within the body assembly, the internal assembly comprising a first internal component operably connected to a second internal component, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the connected state enclose an internal component housed therein and prevent access to the internal component, the method comprising: (a) removing the first shield portion; (b) disconnecting the first internal component from the second internal component; and (c) removing the first internal component from the body assembly to disassemble the first internal component. 2 . The method of claim 1 , further comprising removing the second inner component from the body assembly.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, further comprising placing the first internal component in a first waste stream and placing the second internal component in a second waste stream, wherein: The second waste stream is different from the first waste stream.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The surgical instrument further includes a cable removably connected to the body assembly, wherein the method further includes: (a) disconnecting the cable from the main assembly; and (b) Processing the cable for reuse.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein: The surgical instrument further includes: (a) the cable, the cable being configured to transmit electrical energy therethrough; and (b) a first adapter extending from the cable along a longitudinal axis and configured to be releasably connectable to at least one of an instrument adapter of the surgical instrument or a generator adapter of the generator, the first adapter comprising: (i) an adapter body, (ii) a first electrical contact portion electrically connected to the cable, and (iii) an engagement assembly, the engagement assembly comprising: (A) a latch coupling having a latch portion that is selectively movable relative to the adapter body between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the latch portion includes at least one capture member angularly surrounding at least a majority of the longitudinal axis or a sleeve rotatable about the longitudinal axis, wherein the latch portion in the locked position is configured to capture at least one of the instrument adapter or the generator adapter to maintain the first electrical contact portion in contact with the adapter body; an electrical connection between the first electrical contact portion and the at least one of the instrument adapter or the generator adapter, and wherein the latch portion in the unlocked position is configured to release the at least one of the instrument adapter or the generator adapter to decouple the electrical connection between the first electrical contact portion and the at least one of the instrument adapter or the generator adapter; or (B) a communicating coupling supported by the adapter body and configured to resiliently bias the first electrical contact portion into engagement with the at least one of the instrument adapter or the generator adapter to facilitate contact therebetween.

6. The method according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The surgical instrument also includes: (a) the cable, which is configured to transmit electrical energy through the cable; and (b) a first adapter, which extends from the cable and is configured to be releasably connected to at least one of an instrument adapter of the surgical instrument or a generator adapter of the generator, the first adapter comprising: (i) an adapter body, (ii) a first electrical contact portion electrically connected to the cable, and (iii) a coupling assembly, the coupling assembly comprising: (A) a latch coupling, which is selectively movable between a locked position and an unlocked position relative to the adapter body, wherein the latch coupling in the locked position is configured to capture at least one of the instrument adapter or the generator adapter to maintain the first electrical contact portion in contact with the instrument adapter or the generator adapter (B) a connecting coupling having a biasing element supported by the adapter body and configured to resiliently bias the first electrical contact portion into engagement with at least one of the instrument adapter or the generator adapter to facilitate contact therebetween.

7. The method of any preceding claim, further comprising selectively engaging a predetermined access portion of the surgical instrument to at least partially remove the predetermined access portion to access an interior of the surgical instrument.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising a surgical kit comprising the surgical instrument, a tool body, a torque wrench operably connected to the tool body, and a removal portion operably connected to the tool body, the method further comprising engaging the predetermined access portion with the removal portion to at least partially remove the predetermined access portion to access the interior of the surgical instrument.

9. The method of any preceding claim, further comprising a controller, a first robotic arm and a second robotic arm, and a tool, wherein: The first robotic arm is operably coupled to the surgical instrument, wherein the tool is in communication with the controller, the method further comprising removing the portion of the surgical instrument operably coupled to the first robotic arm using a removal feature of the tool operably coupled to the second robotic arm.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising inserting at least a portion of the surgical instrument into a package.

11. A method of determining a procedure step for a surgical kit for a surgical system, the method comprising: (a) identifying the geographic location where the surgical kit is to be used; (b) extracting a set of treatment instructions from a lookup table based on the identified geographic location of use of the surgical kit; as well as (c) Displaying the handling instructions.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein: The surgical system further includes a generator, and the surgical kit is configured to be assembled into a surgical instrument, wherein the surgical instrument is configured to be disassembled into a first set of used components and a second set of used components.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein: The surgical system also includes an identification feature associated with the generator of the surgical kit and a disassembly aid configured to display a set of instructions on how to disassemble the surgical instrument into the first set of used parts and the second set of used parts, wherein the set of instructions depends on data obtained from the identification feature.

14. The method of any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising retrieving at least a portion of a surgical instrument of the surgical system, wherein: Retrieving the at least a portion of the surgical instrument further includes inserting the portion of the surgical instrument into a return package and closing the return package.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein: The surgical system also includes an outer package and a return package, wherein the outer package defines an interior and an exterior in a closed configuration, wherein the surgical instrument is disposed in or coupled to the interior of the outer package in the closed configuration, wherein the outer package is configured to be openable by a user to expose the interior in an open configuration to allow access to the surgical instrument during a surgical procedure, and wherein the return package is configured to receive the surgical instrument after the surgical procedure to reduce cross contamination.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein: The surgical system also includes a machine-readable code and a code reader, wherein the machine-readable code is coupled to at least one of the surgical instrument, the outer packaging, or the return packaging, and wherein the code reader is configured to read the machine-readable code.

17. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein: The surgical kit is configured to be assembled into a surgical instrument, wherein the surgical instrument includes: (a) an end effector, the end effector being configured to be transitionable between a deactivated configuration and an activated configuration, wherein the end effector is configured to transmit energy to tissue in the activated configuration; and (b) a proximal body operably attached to the end effector, wherein the proximal body includes: (i) an electrical component configured to assist the end effector, (ii) a first shield, and (iii) a proximal body configured to be coupled to the first shield to cooperatively a second shield defining a hollow interior, wherein the electrical component is housed within the hollow interior, (iv) a first restriction feature associated with the first shield, and (v) a second restriction feature associated with the second shield, wherein the first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be coupled together to cooperatively align the first shield and the second shield, and wherein the first restriction feature and the second restriction feature are configured to be selectively disengaged to allow the first shield and the second shield to be decoupled from each other and expose the electrical component within the hollow interior.

18. The method of any one of claims 11 to 17, further comprising determining a recovery capability of at least one feature of a surgical instrument of the surgical system.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: The surgical system further includes: (a) the surgical instrument including the end effector; (b) a hub configured to establish communication with the surgical instrument and assist the surgical instrument during surgery; and (c) an evaluation port associated with the hub, wherein the evaluation port defines a channel sized to receive the end effector, wherein the evaluation port includes a visualization system positioned within the channel, wherein the visualization system is configured to detect defects in the end effector and transmit the defects to the hub.

20. A method of retrieving at least a portion of a surgical instrument, the method comprising: (a) verifying the reusability of the portion of the surgical instrument; (b) determining a waste stream for said portion of said surgical instrument; as well as (c) detaching the at least a portion of the surgical instrument from a remainder of the surgical instrument at a predetermined region of the surgical instrument, thereby recycling the at least a portion of the surgical instrument from the waste stream.

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