Surgical instruments with predetermined separation features for waste stream utilization and related methods

Abstract

A surgical instrument includes a shaft assembly, an end effector, an energy driven system, a circuit assembly, and a body assembly. The body assembly has a first shroud portion that is removably attached to a second shroud portion in a connected state by a shroud coupling. The shroud coupling separates the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state. The first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state surround and resist access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit component or the energy driven system. The first shield portion and the second shield portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit component or the energy driven system to remove at least a portion of at least one of the circuit component or the energy driven system.

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 bipolar, ultrasonic and monopolar contacts 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 move 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; and

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

[0041] 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

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] I. Examples of Surgical Systems

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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, filed on December 28, 2017, entitled “RobotAssisted Surgical Platform,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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, arthroscopes, angioscopes, bronchoscopes, choledochoscopes, colonoscopes, cytoscopes, duodenoscopes, enteroscopes, esophago-duodenoscopes (gastroscopes), endoscopes, laryngoscopes, nasopharyngeal-renal endoscopes, sigmoidoscopes, thoracoscopes, and hysteroendoscopes. Some aspects of spectral and multispectral imaging are 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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).

[0055] 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, under the title “Surgical Instrument Hardware” in U.S. provisional patent application serial number 62 / 611,341, entitled “Interactive Surgical Platform,” filed on December 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0056] 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 in , the hub (106) also includes a smoke exhaust module (126) and / or a suction / flushing module (128).

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] Figure 5One 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.

[0060] 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).

[0061] 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).

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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".

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] II. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Incorporating Selectively Detachable Shields

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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 the 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).

[0072] 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 ). A 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).

[0073] The shield portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) further include a plurality of alignment features (1026) configured to align each shield portion (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) 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).

[0074] 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 a horizontal path, the second shield (1014) in a vertical path, and the fourth shield (1018) in an 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).

[0075] 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 inadvertent movement of the shield portion (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) 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.

[0076] 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).

[0077] 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).

[0078] 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), 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 separate and detached 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).

[0079] 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 6A to 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).

[0080] The main 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 main 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).

[0081] 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).

[0082] 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).

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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).

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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).

[0087] III. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Incorporating Selectively Separable Circuit Assemblies

[0088] 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 the 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.

[0089] 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).

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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).

[0092] 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, for example, breaking the frangible separator (1462) 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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 element (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 a separated state does not allow electrical communication between the memory element (1756) and the main circuit board (1752). In other versions, the failure region (1762) is perforated or otherwise weakened so that the memory element (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.

[0097] 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).

[0098] 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 reservoir member (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 reservoir member (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).

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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 isolator (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) can be removed vertically, obliquely, or in another direction relative to the first shield portion (2012).

[0101] 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.

[0102] IV. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Incorporating Selectably Detachable Energy Drive Systems

[0103] 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.

[0104] Figure 20 to Figure 21A portion of an energy drive system (2140) for incorporation into any one 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.

[0105] 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 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).

[0106] 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).

[0107] 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).

[0108] 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 the 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 the energy coupling (2448). The waveguide (2444) further extends along the longitudinal axis (LA) and is operably attached to the ultrasonic blade.

[0109] 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).

[0110] V. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Including Selectively Detachable Housings and Strain Relief Features

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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 hold 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 recess configured to mate with the bore (2524). The recess 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.

[0113] 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) with reduced manual force using one or both hands of a user.

[0114] VI. Exemplary Combinations

[0115] The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the coverage of any claims that may be provided at any time in this patent application or in the subsequent submissions of this patent application. It is not intended to make a disclaimer. The following examples are provided only for illustrative purposes. It is envisioned that the various teachings herein may be arranged and applied in a variety of other ways. It is also envisioned that some variations may omit certain features mentioned in the following examples. Therefore, any of the aspects or features mentioned below should not be considered decisive unless otherwise explicitly indicated by the inventor or the successor with an interest in the inventor at a later date. If any claim proposed in this patent application or in the subsequent submissions related to this patent application includes additional features other than those mentioned below, these additional features should not be assumed to be added for any reason related to patentability.

[0116] Example 1

[0117] A surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; and (e) 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 coupling configured to removably couple the first shield portion in a connected state. Attached to the second shield portion, wherein the shield coupling is further configured to be able to separate the first shield portion from the second shield portion in a disconnected state, wherein the shield coupling is selected from the group consisting of: push pins and magnetic fasteners, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the connected state surround and prevent access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system contained therein, and wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system to remove at least a portion of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the main body assembly.

[0118] Example 2

[0119] A surgical instrument according to Example 1, wherein the push pin includes a plurality of elastic ribs, and the plurality of elastic ribs are configured to be inserted through a first bore defined by the first shield portion and a second bore defined by the second shield portion, wherein the plurality of elastic ribs expand after being inserted through the first bore and the second bore to maintain the first shield portion and the second shield portion in a connected state.

[0120] Example 3

[0121] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 2, wherein the push pin comprises: a handle configured to include a first outer diameter in an unexpanded state, wherein the first outer diameter of the handle is sized to fit within a pair of bores extending through the first shield portion and the second shield portion; and a pin configured to be assembled within the handle to transition the handle to an expanded state, thereby connecting the first shield portion to the second shield portion.

[0122] Example 4

[0123] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the energy drive system comprises: (i) a transducer; (ii) a waveguide; and (iii) an energy coupling member, wherein the energy coupling member is configured to removably connect the transducer to the waveguide, wherein the energy coupling member is selected from the group consisting of: a frangible partition, a press-fit bushing, and a threaded bushing.

[0124] Example 5

[0125] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the magnetic fastener includes a magnetic coupling, the magnetic coupling having a first magnetic member operably fixed to the first shield portion and a second magnetic member operably fixed to the second shield portion, wherein the magnetic members are selected from the group consisting of: rare earth magnets, ferromagnetic metals, and electromagnets, wherein the first magnetic member is operably fixed to the second magnetic member by magnetic attraction, and wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion are configured to be capable of transitioning from the connected state to the disconnected state by separating the first magnetic member from the second magnetic member by a user.

[0126] Example 6

[0127] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the shield includes an alignment feature, which is configured to enable the first shield portion to be aligned with the second shield portion when transitioning from the connected state to the disconnected state, thereby aligning the first magnetic member with the second magnetic member.

[0128] Example 7

[0129] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the magnetic fastener includes a magnetic lock assembly, the magnetic lock assembly being configured to connect the first shield part to the second shield part in a connected state, wherein the magnetic lock assembly includes at least one magnetic member selected from the group consisting of: rare earth magnets, ferromagnetic metals, and electromagnets, wherein the magnetic lock assembly uses magnetic attraction to place the first shield part and the second shield part in a locked state, and the locked state does not allow accidental movement of the first shield part and the second shield part from the connected state to the disconnected state.

[0130] Example 8

[0131] According to the surgical instrument described in Example 7, the magnetic lock assembly includes a key, and the key is configured to enable the magnetic lock assembly to transition from the locked state to the unlocked state.

[0132] Example 9

[0133] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of Examples 7 to 8, wherein the at least one magnetic member includes a first magnetic member operably connected to the first shield portion and a second magnetic member operably connected to the second magnetic member, wherein one of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member is magnetically attracted to the other of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member, wherein the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member have high magnetic attraction between each other in the locked state, and the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member have low magnetic attraction between each other in the unlocked state.

[0134] Example 10

[0135] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the circuit assembly includes a memory and a main circuit board, wherein the memory is connected to the main circuit board via a circuit coupling, and wherein the memory is configured to be permanently separated from the main circuit board at the circuit coupling, and wherein the circuit coupling is selected from the group consisting of: a failure area, a reduced diameter pin connector, or a frangible notch.

[0136] Embodiment 11

[0137] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the circuit assembly includes a main circuit board and a daughter board, wherein the daughter board is connected to the main circuit board via a pluggable coupling, and wherein the daughter board is configured to be separable from the main circuit board at the pluggable coupling.

[0138] Example 12

[0139] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the circuit assembly includes a memory, wherein the shield coupling includes a latch, the latch being configured to selectively move from a fixed position to an unfixed position when transitioning from the connected state to the disconnected state, and wherein the latch is configured to erase the memory when selectively moving from the fixed position to the unfixed position.

[0140] Example 13

[0141] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the circuit assembly includes a memory and a latch, wherein the latch is configured to render the memory inoperable, and wherein the latch renders the memory inoperable using a reset element selected from the group consisting of an integrated circuit, an integrated capacitor, a current inverter, and a Hall effect sensor.

[0142] Embodiment 14

[0143] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the circuit assembly includes a first circuit portion, a second circuit portion, and a frangible isolator, wherein the frangible isolator connects the first circuit portion to the second circuit portion in an operable state, and wherein the frangible isolator is configured to be able to permanently separate the first circuit portion from the second circuit portion in an inoperable state.

[0144] Embodiment 15

[0145] The surgical instrument according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 14 further includes a cable, wherein the cable is captured by the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the connected state, and wherein the cable is released from the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the disconnected state.

[0146] Example 16

[0147] A surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, the shaft assembly comprising a shaft and a waveguide positioned within the shaft; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; and (c) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly and comprising: (i) a transducer removably connected to the waveguide, (ii) a circuit assembly operably connected to the transducer, and (iii) a plurality of shields covering the transducer and the circuit assembly, wherein the plurality of shields comprises a first shield portion, a second shield portion, and a shield coupling, wherein the first shield portion is connected by the shield coupling in a connected state removably attached to the second shield portion, wherein the shield coupling is further configured to enable separation of the first shield portion from the second shield portion in a disconnected state, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion surround and prevent access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer housed therein in the connected state, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer in the disconnected state, and wherein the transducer is configured to be disconnected from the waveguide to enable removal of the transducer from the main body assembly.

[0148] Embodiment 17

[0149] The surgical instrument according to Example 16 also includes a bushing that removably couples the transducer to the waveguide, wherein the bushing is configured to be constructed of a material that is less wear-resistant than each of the waveguide and the transducer.

[0150] Embodiment 18

[0151] A surgical instrument according to Example 16, wherein the transducer is removably coupled to the waveguide using a frangible coupling.

[0152] Embodiment 19

[0153] A surgical instrument according to any one or more of Examples 16 to 18, wherein the transducer comprises a protective covering, wherein the protective covering is configured to prevent damage to the transducer during removal.

[0154] Embodiment 20

[0155] A surgical instrument comprises: (a) an axis assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the axis assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to tissue of a patient; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; (e) a cable operably connected to and electrically connected to at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system; and (f) a body assembly extending proximally from the axis assembly and comprising a cover removably attached to a portion of the energy drive system and the circuit assembly, wherein the cover comprises a first cover portion and a second cover portion removably attached to each other in a connected state, wherein the first cover portion and the second cover portion in the connected state capture the cable in the connected state, and wherein the first cover portion and the second cover portion release the cable in a disconnected state.

[0156] Embodiment 21

[0157] A surgical instrument according to any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the body assembly includes a handle configured to be grasped by a user.

[0158] Embodiment 22

[0159] A surgical instrument according to any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the housing assembly is configured to be coupled to a complementary component of a robotic arm.

[0160] Embodiment 23

[0161] 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) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; and (e) 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 coupling configured to removably attach the first shield portion to the second shield portion in a connected state, wherein the shield coupling Further configured to be capable of separating the first shield portion from the second shield portion in a disconnected state, wherein the shield coupling is selected from a group including: push pins and magnetic fasteners, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the connected state surround and prevent access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system contained therein, and wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system to remove at least a portion of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the main body assembly, the method comprising: (a) removing the first shield portion with one or both hands of a user; and (b) removing a portion of the circuit assembly.

[0162] Embodiment 24

[0163] The method according to Example 23 also includes (c) removing the portion of the circuit assembly by destroying the circuit assembly with one or both hands of a user.

[0164] Embodiment 25

[0165] The method of any one of embodiments 23-24, further comprising (d) placing the portion of the circuit assembly in a first waste stream selected from the group consisting of: disposal, recycling, and refurbishment.

[0166] Embodiment 26

[0167] A method according to any one of embodiments 23 to 25, wherein the portion of the circuit assembly is a first portion of the circuit assembly, the method further comprising (e) removing a second portion of the circuit assembly and placing the second portion of the circuit assembly in a second waste stream selected from the group consisting of: disposal, recycling, and refurbishment, wherein the second waste stream is different from the first waste stream.

[0168] Embodiment 27

[0169] 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) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; and (e) 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 coupling configured to removably attach the first shield portion to the second shield portion in a connected state, wherein the shield coupling is Further configured to be capable of separating the first shield portion from the second shield portion in a disconnected state, wherein the shield coupling is selected from a group including: push pins and magnetic fasteners, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the connected state surround and prevent access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit component or the energy drive system contained therein, and wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit component or the energy drive system to remove at least a portion of the circuit component or the energy drive system from the main body component, the method comprising: (a) removing the first shield portion with one or both hands of a user; and (b) removing a portion of the energy drive component.

[0170] Embodiment 28

[0171] The method according to Example 27 also includes (c) removing the portion of the energy drive component by breaking it with one or both hands of the user.

[0172] Embodiment 29

[0173] The method of any one of embodiments 27 to 28, further comprising (d) placing the portion of the energy drive assembly in a first waste stream selected from the group consisting of: disposal, recycling, and refurbishment.

[0174] Embodiment 30

[0175] A method according to any one of embodiments 27 to 29, wherein the portion of the circuit component includes a first portion of the circuit component, the method also comprising (e) removing a second portion of the energy-driven component and placing the second portion of the energy-driven component in a second waste stream selected from the group consisting of: disposal, recycling, and refurbishment, wherein the second waste stream is different from the first waste stream.

[0176] Embodiment 31

[0177] 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 coupling, the shield coupling being configured to removably attach the first shield portion to the second shield portion in a connected state, wherein the shield coupling is further configured to separate 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 surround and prevent access to the internal components housed therein, 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.

[0178] Embodiment 32

[0179] The method according to Example 31 also includes removing the second internal component from the main body assembly.

[0180] Embodiment 33

[0181]

[00136] The method of embodiments 31-32, further comprising placing the first internal component in a first waste stream and placing the second internal component in a second waste stream.

[0182] VII. Miscellaneous

[0183] Versions of the above-described devices may find application in traditional medical treatments and surgeries performed by medical professionals, as well as robotic-assisted medical treatments and surgeries.

[0184] It should be understood that any type of apparatus described herein may also include various other features in addition to or as an alternative to those described above. By way of example only, any of the apparatus described herein may also include one or more of the various feature structures disclosed in any of the various references incorporated herein by reference. It should also be understood that the teachings herein may be readily applied to any apparatus described in any other reference cited herein, such that the teachings herein may be readily combined with the teachings in any reference cited herein in a variety of ways. Other types of apparatus that may incorporate the teachings herein will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0185] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9447USNP1.0754991], entitled "Method of Reclaiming Portions of Surgical Instruments for Remanufacturing and Sustainability", filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of the U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9447USNP1.0754991] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0186] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9448USNP2.0754976], entitled "Surgical Instrument with Removeable Cable and Associated Couplings", filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9448USNP2.0754976] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0187] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9448USNP3.0754978], entitled "Surgical System and Methods of Assembly and Disassembly ofSurgical Instrument" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9448USNP3.0754978] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0188] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9449USNP1.0754980], entitled "Robotic Surgical System with Removable Portion and Method of Disassembling Same" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9449USNP1.0754980] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0189] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP1.0754982], entitled "System for Determining Disposal of Surgical Instrument and Related methods" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP1.0754982] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0190] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP2.0754998], entitled "Reclamation Packaging for Surgical Instrument and Related Methods", filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP2.0754998] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0191] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP3.0755000], entitled "Surgical Instrument with Various Alignment Features and Methods for Improved Disassembly and Assembly" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of the U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP3.0755000] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0192] In addition to the foregoing, the teachings of this article can be easily combined with the teachings of the following: U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP4.0755005], entitled "Surgical System and Methods for Instrument Assessment and Cleaning" filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined with the teachings of the U.S. Patent Application [Agent Docket No. END9450USNP4.0755005] will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings of this article.

[0193] It should also be understood that any range of values ​​referenced herein should be understood to include the upper and lower limits of such ranges. For example, a range expressed as "between about 1.0 inches and about 1.5 inches" should be understood to include about 1.0 inches and about 1.5 inches, in addition to including values ​​between these upper and lower limits.

[0194] It should be understood that any patent, patent publication, or other public material, whether in whole or in part, allegedly incorporated herein by reference is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other public materials listed in the present disclosure. Therefore, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure explicitly listed herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material or portion thereof allegedly incorporated herein by reference but conflicting with existing definitions, statements, or other public materials listed herein will be incorporated only to the extent that there is no conflict between the incorporated material and the existing public materials.

[0195] The patterns described above can be designed to be discarded after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case or both, these patterns can be repaired to be reused after at least one use. Repair can include any combination of the following steps: disassembling the device, then cleaning or replacing specific parts and subsequently reassembling. Specifically, some patterns of the device can be disassembled, and any number of specific parts or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. When cleaning and / or replacing specific parts, some patterns of the device can be reassembled at a repair facility or reassembled by the operator before surgery is about to be performed for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the repair of the device can be disassembled, cleaned / replaced, and reassembled using a variety of techniques. The use of such technology and the resulting repair device are all within the scope of the present application.

[0196] By way of example only, the types described herein may be sterilized before and / or after a procedure. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container such as a plastic bag or a TYVEK bag. The container and device may then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation may kill bacteria on the device and in the container. The sterilized device may then be stored in a sterile container for later use. The device may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

[0197] Various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, and further improvements of the methods and systems described herein may be achieved by appropriate modifications by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. Several such possible modifications have been mentioned, and other modifications will be apparent to those of skill in the art. For example, the embodiments, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, etc. discussed above are illustrative and not required. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be considered in light of the following claims, and should be understood not to be limited to the details of the structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

Claims

1. A surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to tissue of the patient via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; as well as (e) 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 coupling configured to removably attach the first shield portion to the second shield portion in a connected state, wherein the shield coupling is further configured to detach the first shield portion from the second shield portion in a disconnected state, wherein the shield coupling is selected from the group consisting of: a push pin and a magnetic fastener, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the connected state surround and prevent access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit components or the energy drive system housed therein, and Wherein, the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit component or the energy drive system to remove at least a portion of at least one of the circuit component or the energy drive system from the main body component.

2. The surgical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The push pin includes a plurality of elastic ribs configured to be inserted through a first bore defined by the first shield portion and a second bore defined by the second shield portion, wherein the plurality of elastic ribs expand after being inserted through the first bore and the second bore to maintain the first shield portion and the second shield portion in a connected state.

3. The surgical instrument according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The push pin includes a handle configured to include a first outer diameter in an unexpanded state, wherein the first outer diameter of the handle is sized to fit within a pair of bores extending through the first shield portion and the second shield portion; and a pin configured to fit within the handle to transition the handle to an expanded state, thereby connecting the first shield portion to the second shield portion.

4. The surgical instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The energy drive system comprises: (i) transducer, (ii) waveguide, and (iii) an energy coupling configured to removably connect the transducer to the waveguide, wherein the energy coupling is selected from the group consisting of: Fragile spacers, press-fit bushings and threaded bushings.

5. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The magnetic fastener includes a magnetic coupling having a first magnetic member operably secured to the first shield portion and a second magnetic member operably secured to the second shield portion, wherein the magnetic members are selected from the group consisting of rare earth magnets, ferromagnetic metals, and electromagnets, wherein the first magnetic member is operably secured to the second magnetic member by magnetic attraction, and wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion are configured to be capable of transitioning from the connected state to the disconnected state by separating the first magnetic member from the second magnetic member by a user.

6. The surgical instrument according to claim 5, wherein: The shield includes an alignment feature configured to enable alignment of the first shield portion with the second shield portion when transitioning from the connected state to the disconnected state, thereby aligning the first magnetic member with the second magnetic member.

7. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The magnetic fastener includes a magnetic lock assembly, which is configured to connect the first shield part to the second shield part in a connected state, wherein the magnetic lock assembly includes at least one magnetic member selected from the group consisting of: rare earth magnets, ferromagnetic metals, and electromagnets, wherein the magnetic lock assembly uses magnetic attraction to keep the first shield part and the second shield part in a locked state, and the locked state does not allow accidental movement of the first shield part and the second shield part from the connected state to the disconnected state.

8. The surgical instrument according to claim 7, wherein: The magnetic lock assembly includes a key configured to enable the magnetic lock assembly to transition from the locked state to an unlocked state.

9. The surgical instrument according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein: The at least one magnetic member includes a first magnetic member operably connected to the first shield portion and a second magnetic member operably connected to the second magnetic member, wherein one of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member is magnetically attracted to the other of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member, wherein the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member have a high magnetic attraction between each other in the locked state, and the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member have a low magnetic attraction between each other in the unlocked state.

10. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The circuit assembly includes a memory and a main circuit board, wherein the memory is connected to the main circuit board via a circuit coupling, and wherein the memory is configured to be permanently separated from the main circuit board at the circuit coupling, and wherein the circuit coupling is selected from the group consisting of: a failure area, a reduced diameter pin connector, or a frangible notch.

11. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The circuit assembly includes a main circuit board and a daughter board, wherein the daughter board is connected to the main circuit board through a pluggable coupling, and wherein the daughter board is configured to be detachable from the main circuit board at the pluggable coupling.

12. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The circuit assembly includes a memory, wherein the shield coupling includes a latch configured to selectively move from a secured position to an unsecured position upon corresponding transition from the connected state to the disconnected state, and wherein the latch is configured to erase the memory upon selective movement from the secured position to the unsecured position.

13. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The circuit assembly includes a memory and a latch, wherein the latch is configured to render the memory inoperable, and wherein the latch renders the memory inoperable using a reset element selected from the group consisting of an integrated circuit, an integrated capacitor, a current inverter, and a Hall effect sensor.

14. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The circuit assembly includes a first circuit portion, a second circuit portion, and a frangible isolator, wherein the frangible isolator connects the first circuit portion to the second circuit portion in an operable state, and wherein the frangible isolator is configured to be able to permanently separate the first circuit portion from the second circuit portion in an inoperable state.

15. The surgical instrument of any preceding claim, further comprising a cable, wherein The cable is captured by the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the connected state, and wherein the cable is released from the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the disconnected state.

16. A surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, the shaft assembly comprising a shaft and a waveguide positioned within the shaft; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; as well as (c) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly and comprising: (i) a transducer removably connected to the waveguide, (ii) a circuit assembly operably connected to the transducer, and (iii) a plurality of shields covering the transducer and the circuit assembly, wherein the plurality of shields include a first shield portion, a second shield portion, and a shield coupling, wherein the first shield portion is removably attached to the second shield portion by the shield coupling in a connected state, wherein the shield coupling is further configured to be able to separate the first shield portion from the second shield portion in a disconnected state, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion, in the connected state, surround and prevent access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer housed therein, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer from the body assembly in the disconnected state, and Wherein, the transducer is configured to be disconnectable from the waveguide to enable the transducer to be removed from the body assembly.

17. The surgical instrument of claim 16, further comprising a sleeve that removably couples the transducer to the waveguide, wherein The bushing is constructed of a less wear resistant material than the waveguide and the transducer.

18. A surgical instrument according to claim 16 or claim 17, wherein: The transducer is removably coupled to the waveguide using a frangible coupling.

19. The surgical instrument according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein: The transducer includes a protective covering, wherein the protective covering is configured to prevent damage to the transducer during removal.

20. A surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to tissue of the patient; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; (e) a cable operably connected to and in electrical communication with at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system; and (f) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly and including a cover that is removably attached to the energy drive system and a portion of the circuit assembly, wherein the cover includes a first cover portion and a second cover portion that are removably attached to each other in a connected state, wherein the first cover portion and the second cover portion in the connected state capture the cable in the connected state, and wherein the first cover portion and the second cover portion release the cable in a disconnected state.

21. A surgical instrument according to any preceding claim, wherein: The body assembly includes a handle configured to be grasped by a user.

22. The surgical instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: The housing assembly is configured to be coupled to a complementary component of a robotic arm.

23. A method of 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) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to tissue of the patient via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; as well as (e) 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 coupling configured to removably attach the first shield portion to the second shield portion in a connected state, wherein the shield coupling is further configured to detach the first shield portion from the second shield portion in a disconnected state, wherein the shield coupling is selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the connected state surround and prevent access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system housed therein, and wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system to remove at least a portion of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the body assembly, the method comprising: (a) removing the first shield portion using one or both hands of a user; and (b) Removing a portion of the circuit assembly.

24. The method according to claim 23, further comprising: (c) removing the portion of the circuit assembly by destroying the circuit assembly with one or both hands of a user.

25. The method according to claim 23 or claim 24, further comprising: (d) placing the portion of the circuit assembly in a first waste stream selected from the group consisting of: disposal, recycling, and refurbishment.

26. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein: The portion of the circuit assembly is a first portion of the circuit assembly, the method further comprising: (e) removing a second portion of the circuit assembly and placing the second portion of the circuit assembly in a second waste stream selected from the group consisting of: disposal, recycling, and refurbishment, wherein the second waste stream is different from the first waste stream.

27. A method of 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) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to tissue of the patient via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; as well as (e) 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 coupling configured to removably attach the first shield portion to the second shield portion in a connected state, wherein the shield coupling is further configured to detach the first shield portion from the second shield portion in a disconnected state, wherein the shield coupling is selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener, wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the connected state surround and prevent access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system housed therein, and wherein the first shield portion and the second shield portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system to remove at least a portion of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the body assembly, the method comprising: (a) removing the first shield portion using one or both hands of a user; and (b) Removing a portion of the energy drive assembly.

28. The method according to claim 27, further comprising: (c) removing the portion of the energy drive assembly by breaking it with one or both hands of a user.

29. The method of claim 27 or claim 28, further comprising: (d) placing the portion of the energy drive assembly in a first waste stream selected from the group consisting of: disposal, recycling, and refurbishment.

30. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein: The portion of the circuit assembly includes a first portion of the circuit assembly, the method further comprising: (e) removing a second portion of the energy drive assembly and placing the second portion of the energy drive assembly in a second waste stream selected from the group consisting of: disposal, recycling, and refurbishment, wherein the second waste stream is different from the first waste stream.

31. A method of 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 coupling configured to removably attach the first shield portion to the second shield portion in a connected state, wherein the shield coupling is further configured to separate 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 surround and prevent access to the internal components housed therein, 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.

32. The method of claim 31 , further comprising removing the second inner component from the body assembly.

33. The method of claim 31 or claim 32, further comprising placing the first internal component in a first waste stream and placing the second internal component in a second waste stream.

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