Module installation tools and related methods

Abstract

Module installation tools and related methods are disclosed herein. In one example, a module mounting tool includes a tool head, a tool base, and an actuator. The module mounting tool is configured such that axial movement of the actuator relative to the tool base rotates the tool head relative to the tool base to couple or decouple the module to or from the module receiver. In one example, a method includes translating an actuator of a module mounting tool in a proximal direction to engage a module with a module receiver; and further translating the actuator in the proximal direction to rotate the tool head relative to the module receiver.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates in general to module installation tools and related methods, and more specifically to tools and methods for installing modules in vacuum systems. Background Technology

[0002] Various instruments, such as mass spectrometers, typically use vacuum interlock systems to install or remove components within the system using vacuum interlock tools without venting the vacuum chamber. In some cases, such vacuum interlock tools may require the user to follow a precise sequence of steps to ensure proper component installation and removal and / or avoid damage to the equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In a representative example, a device includes a tool head, a tool base, and an actuator slidably coupled to the tool base. The tool head is configured to engage and support a module, which is configured to selectively couple to a module receiver. The device is configured such that axial movement of the actuator relative to the tool base causes rotation of the tool head relative to the tool base to couple the module to or decouple the module from the module receiver.

[0004] In another representative example, a device includes a tool head, a tool base, an actuator slidably coupled to the tool base, and an inner slider at least partially received within the tool base. The tool head is configured to engage and support a module configured to selectively couple to a module receiver. The inner slider is configured to translate relative to each of the tool base and the tool head. Moving the actuator relative to the tool base causes the inner slider to translate relative to the tool base. The device is configured such that axial movement of the actuator relative to the tool base causes the device to transform between a plurality of configurations defined between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration, and including both retracted and extended configurations. When the device is in the retracted configuration, the tool head is in a first axial position relative to the tool base. When the device is in the extended configuration, the tool head is in a second axial position relative to the tool base, the second axial position being displaced from the first axial position in a proximal direction. The device is configured to rotate the tool head relative to the tool base while the tool head is held in the second axial position.

[0005] In another representative example, a method includes, with the module operatively coupled to the tool head of a module mounting tool, translating an actuator of the module mounting tool in a proximal direction from an initial actuator position to a second actuator position to engage the module with a module receiver. The method additionally includes translating the actuator in a proximal direction from the second actuator position to a third actuator position to rotate the tool head relative to the module receiver in a mounting rotation direction, thereby at least partially coupling the module to the module receiver, and detaching the module from the tool head.

[0006] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the disclosed technology will become more apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the module installation tool based on the example.

[0008] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 Line 2-2 observed Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of the module installation tool.

[0009] Figure 3A It is based on the example. Figures 1 to 2 A side view of the module installation tool, with the actuator in the first actuator position.

[0010] Figure 3B It is based on the example. Figures 1 to 3A A side view of the module installation tool, with the actuator in the second actuator position.

[0011] Figure 3C It is based on the example. Figures 1 to 3B A side view of the module installation tool, with the actuator in the third actuator position.

[0012] Figure 4A This is a side view of a tool head with a tool head guide rail, based on the example, and the arrows indicate the mounting path of the tool head guide rail.

[0013] Figure 4B It is based on the example. Figure 4A A side view of the tool head, with arrows indicating the removal path of the tool head guide.

[0014] Figures 5A to 5E It is a series of side views of the proximal area of ​​the example module installation tool, which depicts the procedure for installing modules using the module installation tool.

[0015] Figures 6A to 6E It is a series of side views of the proximal area of ​​the example module installation tool, which depicts the procedure for removing a module using the module installation tool.

[0016] Figures 7A to 7C These are a series of cross-sectional side views of the proximal region of the example modular installation tool, depicting the operation of the tool head interlocking device of the tool head of the modular installation tool.

[0017] Figure 8A This is a cross-sectional side view of a module mounting tool with a valve interlock device in a locked configuration, based on an example.

[0018] Figure 8B It is based on the example. Figure 8A A cross-sectional side view of the module installation tool, with the valve interlock device in the unlocked configuration.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the slider position interlock device and inner slider of the module installation tool in the example.

[0020] Figures 10A to 10D These are a series of schematic side views depicting the operation of the valve interlock device of the module installation tool during the module removal procedure, according to an example.

[0021] Figure 11 It is a flowchart depicting the method of installing a module using a module installation tool, based on an example.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a flowchart depicting a method for removing a module using a module installation tool, based on an example. Detailed Implementation

[0023] This disclosure relates in its entirety to tools and methods for installing and removing components within a system in a manner that facilitates easy and direct operation by a user. The tools and methods disclosed herein are particularly relevant to systems employing vacuum interlocking to selectively couple various components to the system while at least a portion of the system remains under vacuum. For example, a mass spectrometer system may include a vacuum interlocking system that allows a user to install or remove components (e.g., an ion source) within the system without requiring venting of the vacuum chamber.

[0024] When installing components via a vacuum interlock system, it may be necessary to position the components in a precise location and / or rotate the components within the system without directly manipulating them. In some conventional examples, vacuum interlock tools used for installing components via a vacuum interlock system are used to position and / or move (e.g., rotate) the components within the system to install or remove them from the system. Specifically, the user may need to manipulate such vacuum interlock tools to position the components at a specific depth within the system and rotate the components relative to the system only when they are in the correct position. In some examples, such procedures require the user to perform a sequence of operations with sufficient precision using the vacuum interlock tools to avoid damage to the components and / or the system.

[0025] In contrast, the tools and methods disclosed herein can be used to install and / or remove components within such systems with lower operator skill requirements and reduced risk of misuse or damage. As described in more detail herein, examples of modular installation tools according to this disclosure may include a dual-position mechanism that allows coupling and decoupling of components to and from the modular installation tool using a unidirectional actuation input. Specifically, instead of requiring a user to manipulate the tool through a defined path for latching or unlocking, the end of the tool automatically rotates between a locked and unlocked position in response to axial movement of components of the tool.

[0026] For example, to install a module, the user inserts the attached module installation tool into the system, advances the actuator until it stops, and then retracts the actuator to its original position. To unload the module, the user again advances the actuator until it stops, then retracts it, allowing the module to attach to and be received within the module installation tool. In this way, both installation and removal operations may require using the module installation tool for insertion and / or axial translation until a stopping position is reached, followed by removal of the module installation tool. This significantly simplifies the required user interaction and reduces the chance of errors.

[0027] As used herein, the term "module" can refer to any suitable device, component, and / or structure that is selectively and operatively coupled to and / or removed from another system, device, component, structure, etc., in the manner described herein. This disclosure relates throughout to examples in which a module is a component (such as an ion source) of a mass spectrometry system. However, this is not essential, and the tools and methods disclosed herein can be used in conjunction with any suitable module, component, system, etc., within the scope of this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 1 An example of a module installation tool 1100 according to this disclosure is illustrated, while Figure 2 Is it like along Figure 1 Line 2-2 observed Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the module installation tool. In this disclosure and the accompanying drawings, reference numerals for designating parts and / or steps are formatted such that the leading digits of the reference numerals correspond to the drawing in which the part and / or step appears, and the remaining three digits represent an identifier corresponding to a specific part and / or step. In this way, reference numerals with the same identifiers can be used to designate the same parts and / or steps in the drawings. For example, for Figure 2 Those parts marked in the figure, and those parts marked with the form "2XX", are intended to be related to... Figure 1 The parts marked with the form "1XX" in the attached figures correspond to these parts. As a more specific example, Figure 2 The module installation tool 2100 corresponds to Figure 1 The module installation tool 1100 is at least substantially the same as that. Unless otherwise stated, all illustrated parts, whether marked or unmarked, in any of the figures may share any suitable features, characteristics, properties, etc., with their corresponding parts in any other figure.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the module mounting tool 1100 includes a tool head 1130, a tool base 1110, and an actuator 1180 slidably coupled to the tool base 1110. The tool head 1130 is configured to engage and support a module that is configured to be selectively coupled to and / or removed from a module receiver, as described in more detail below. The module mounting tool 1100 is generally configured such that axial movement of the actuator 1108 relative to the tool base 1110 causes the tool head 1130 to rotate relative to the tool base 1110 to couple the module to or decouple the module from the module receiver.

[0030] Tool base 1110 can be configured to support tool head 1130 relative to module receiver during various operations as described herein. In particular, and as discussed in more detail below (e.g., see references...), Figures 10A to 10D The tool base 1110 can be configured to be operatively coupled to a tool receiver spaced apart from the module receiver to support the module mounting tool 1100 relative to the module receiver.

[0031] exist Figure 1 In this example, the tool base 1110 includes a tool receiver mating mechanism 1114 configured to selectively couple the tool base 1110 to a tool receiver. Specifically, in this example, the tool receiver mating mechanism 1114 includes a plurality of alignment features 1116 in the form of alignment pins configured to rotatably align the tool base 1110 relative to the tool receiver. The tool receiver mating mechanism 1114 may additionally include a sealing surface 1118 of the tool base 1110 configured to form an hermetically tight seal against the tool receiver.

[0032] In this disclosure, terms such as “axial translation,” “axial movement,” and / or “axially” are intended to refer to movement along a direction aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the module mounting tool 1100. In some examples, and with reference to… Figure 1 Such movements may correspond to and / or be described as movements along the proximal direction 1002 and / or the distal direction 1004. Specifically, the proximal direction 1002 corresponds to a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the module mounting tool 1100 and pointing towards the tool head 1130 (and / or towards the module operatively coupled to the tool head 1130) as the tool head 1130 extends away from the tool base 1110, such as... Figure 1 As shown. Similarly, the distal direction 1004 corresponds to a direction that is parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the module mounting tool 1100 and opposite to the proximal direction 1002.

[0033] In this disclosure, the relative motion between any components may be described with reference to the angles of any such component and / or any other component. In this way, a description of the motion (e.g., translation and / or rotation) of the first component relative to the second component in a first direction can be equivalently understood as referring to the motion of the second component relative to the first component in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the module mounting tool 1100 may include an inner slider 1120 configured to translate axially relative to each of the tool base 1110 and the tool head 1130. The module mounting tool 1100 may be configured such that the axial translation of the inner slider 1120 relative to the tool head 1130 causes the tool head 1130 to rotate relative to the tool base 1110.

[0035] As discussed in more detail below, the inner slider 1120 can be driven by the tool head rotary driver 1150 (in... Figure 1 The interaction between the tool head 1130 (hidden in the dashed line) and the tool head guide 1140 defined by the tool head 1130 causes the tool head 1130 to rotate. Specifically, the tool head rotary actuator 1150 may be fixed in place relative to the inner slider 1120 (e.g., axially and / or rotationally fixed) such that axial translation of the inner slider 1120 relative to the tool head 1130 causes the tool head rotary actuator 1150 to travel along the tool head guide 1140, thereby rotating the tool head 1130 relative to the inner slider 1120. See below for reference. Figures 4A to 6E As discussed in more detail, the axial translation of the inner slider 1120 relative to the tool head 1130 allows the tool head 1130 to rotate in either the mounting rotation direction 1006 or the removal rotation direction 1008, depending on the initial position of the tool head rotary driver 1150 relative to the tool head guide rail 1140.

[0036] exist Figure 1In the example, the tool head guide 1140 takes the form of a channel formed in the tool head 1130, while the tool head rotary actuator 1150 takes the form of a ball bearing that is fixed in place relative to the inner slider 1120 and travels along a path defined by the channel as the inner slider 1120 moves relative to the tool head 1130. In this way, the tool head rotary actuator 1150 can be described as being constrained and supported by the inner slider 1120 such that the tool head rotary actuator 1150 can rotate (e.g., roll) in place relative to the inner slider 1120. However, this is not necessary in all examples. For example, the tool head guide 1140 may additionally or alternatively be at least partially defined by the inner surface of the inner slider 1120, which is also within the scope of this disclosure. As another example, the tool head rotary actuator 1150 may be fixedly coupled to the inner slider 1120. As another example, the tool head rotary driver 1150 may alternatively be fixed in place relative to the tool head 1130 (e.g., fixedly coupled to and / or constrainedly supported by the tool head 1130). In various other examples, the tool head rotary driver 1150 may take any suitable form, such as a pin or a protrusion.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, the inner slider 2120 may be at least partially received within the tool base 2110, such as within a base cavity 2112 of the tool base 2110. The inner slider 2120 may be restricted and / or prevented from rotating relative to the tool base 2110, for example, by engaging with a slider track 2210 extending within the base cavity 2112. Specifically, the slider track 2210 may be rotatably fixed relative to the tool base 2110, and the inner slider 2120 may be configured to translate axially along the slider track 2210 without rotating relative to the slider track 2210. Reference hereinafter. Figure 9 The interaction between the inner slider 2120 and the slider track 2210 is described in more detail.

[0038] The module can be configured to be operatively coupled to the tool head end region 2132 of the tool head 2130 via any suitable coupling mechanism, such as a coupling mechanism that operatively couples the module to or removes it from the tool head via relative rotation between the module and the tool head 2130. In some examples, and as... Figure 2 As shown, the tool head 2130 includes a module biasing spring 2134 that, when the module is operatively coupled to the tool head 2130, biases the module relative to the tool head 2130 in a proximal direction 2002. In this way, the module biasing spring 2134 maintains the module in form-fit with the tool head 2130 to limit accidental removal of the module from the tool head 2130.

[0039] The module mounting tool 1100 can be configured such that moving the actuator 2180 relative to the tool base 2110 causes the inner slider 2120 to translate relative to the tool base 2110 in a similar manner. Specifically, in Figure 2 In this example, actuator 2180 and inner slider 2120 are magnetically coupled to each other via magnetic coupling mechanism 2190, allowing actuator 2180 and inner slider 2120 to translate uniformly. In this example, tool base 2110 extends between actuator 2180 and inner slider 2120, such that magnetic coupling mechanism 2190 represents a non-contact coupling mechanism between actuator 2180 and inner slider 2120. However, this is not necessary, and the possibility of actuator 2180 and inner slider 2120 contacting each other is also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0040] exist Figure 2 In one example, the magnetic coupling mechanism 2190 includes an actuator magnet 2192 fixedly coupled to the actuator 2180 and an inner slider magnet 2194 fixedly coupled to the inner slider 2120, such that the actuator magnet 2192 and the inner slider magnet 2194 are magnetically attracted to each other via the tool base 2110. The actuator magnet 2192 and the inner slider magnet 2194 may include and / or may be any suitable magnet, such as a rare earth magnet (e.g., a neodymium magnet). In some examples, the actuator magnet 2192 and / or the inner slider magnet 2194 include one or more arcuate magnets that extend at least partially circumferentially around the central longitudinal axis of the module mounting tool 2100.

[0041] exist Figure 2 In the example, actuator 2180 additionally includes and / or a magnetic shield 2186 that at least partially shields an area outside actuator 2180 from the magnetic field generated by magnetic coupling mechanism 2190. For example, magnetic shield 2186 may include and / or may be a soft magnetic material (e.g., ferrite material) used to limit the magnetic field extending outside actuator 2180 and / or enhance the amplitude of the magnetic field inside actuator 2180.

[0042] In other examples, the magnetic coupling mechanism 2190 may include two or more magnetic rings with alternating magnetic pole orientations to further enhance the magnetic coupling strength.

[0043] exist Figure 2 In one example, actuator 2180 includes an outer sleeve 2182 configured to be gripped by a user to move actuator 2180 and includes and / or a magnetic shield 2186. In other examples, magnetic shield 2186 may be positioned radially inside outer sleeve 2182.

[0044] In some examples, the magnetic coupling mechanism 2190 may be operable to at least partially decouple the movement of the actuator 2180 from the movement of the inner slider 2120. For example, while the operation of the module mounting tool 2100 may include moving the actuator 2180 such that the inner slider 2120 translates in unison with the actuator 2180, the magnetic coupling strength between the actuator 2180 and the inner slider 2120 may be weak enough to limit the inner slider 2120 from being overdriven by the actuator 2180.

[0045] As an example, the inner slider 2120 may position the tool head 2130 and / or the attached module in a position where further translation of the tool head 2130 and / or the module in the proximal direction 2002 is not desired. In such a configuration, further pushing the actuator 2180 in the proximal direction 2002 with a force exceeding the magnetic coupling force between the actuator 2180 and the inner slider 2120 may cause the actuator 2180 to be axially displaced from the inner slider 2120, thereby avoiding damage to components of the module mounting tool 2100 that could occur if the inner slider 2120 moves in unison with the actuator 2180. However, unless otherwise stated, the description herein of the operation of axial translation of the actuator 2180 should be understood as a description of the operation of axial translation of the inner slider 2120 in an equivalent manner (e.g., at least substantially in sync with the actuator 2180).

[0046] Additionally, while the actuator 2180 and the inner slider 2120 may be configured to translate axially at least partially in sync with each other, the magnetic coupling mechanism 2190 allows the actuator 2180 to rotate freely at least partially relative to the tool base 2110 and / or relative to the inner slider 2120. Desiredly, this configuration provides the user with the assurance that careful control of the rotational orientation of the actuator 2180 is not required during the use of the modular mounting tool 2100. However, this is not necessary, and the limitation of the actuator 2180's rotation relative to the inner slider 2120 (e.g., by the magnetic coupling mechanism 2190) is also within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the magnetic coupling mechanism 2190 may be configured such that a magnetic field alternately couples the rotational movement of the actuator 2180 and the inner slider 2120 about a central longitudinal axis.

[0047] Figure 2 The manner in which the tool head 2130 is coupled to the inner slider 2120 is further illustrated. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the tool head 2130 may extend at least partially within the slider cavity 2124 of the inner slider 2120. The module mounting tool 2100 may include a tool head spring 2136 that biases the tool head 2130 relative to the inner slider 2120 in a proximal direction 2002 (or equivalently, biases the inner slider 2120 relative to the tool head 2130 in a distal direction 2004). See below (e.g., reference...). Figures 7A to 7CIn a more detailed description, the module installation tool 2100 may include a tool head interlock device 2160 that selectively restricts the tool head 2130 from... Figure 2 The configuration shown translates distally relative to the inner slider 2120 (or, equivalently, selectively restricts the translation of the inner slider 2120 proximally relative to the tool head 2130).

[0048] Figures 3A to 3C An exemplary sequence of operations is depicted in which the actuator 3180 translates relative to the tool base 3110 in a proximal direction 3002 (opposite to the distal direction 3004). Specifically, Figure 3A An example is shown where actuator 3180 is in the first actuator position, while Figure 3B An example is shown in which actuator 3180 is in the second actuator position, and Figure 3C An example is shown in which actuator 3180 is in the third actuator position.

[0049] When actuator 3180 is removed Figure 3A The first actuator position is moved to Figure 3B When the actuator 3180 is in the second actuator position, the corresponding axial movement of the inner slider 3120 in the proximal direction 3002 allows the tool head 3130 to translate relative to the tool base 3110 without rotating relative to the tool base 3110. However, when the actuator 3180 is moved from... Figure 3B The second actuator position is moved to Figure 3C When the third actuator is in position, the corresponding axial movement of the inner slider 3120 in the proximal direction 3002 can cause the tool head 3130 to rotate relative to the tool base 3110 without translating relative to the tool base 3110.

[0050] Specifically, in Figures 3B to 3C In the example, the axial translation of actuator 3180 from the second actuator position to the third actuator position is performed when tool head 3130 is further translated in the proximal direction 3002, such as due to the module configured to receive attachment to tool head 3130. Figures 3A to 3C Engagement of module receiver 3020 (not shown). In such an example, translation of actuator 3180 from the second actuator position to the third actuator position in the proximal direction 3002 causes inner slider 3120 to rotate tool head 3130 in the proximal direction 3002, as described in more detail below.

[0051] In some examples, after translating actuator 3180 from the second actuator position to the third actuator position to rotate tool head 3130, translating actuator 3180 from the third actuator position back to the second actuator position to further rotate tool head 3130 in the same direction. In other words, in some examples, moving actuator 3180 from the second actuator position to the third actuator position to rotate tool head 3130 relative to tool base 3110 in the rotational direction, and then moving actuator 3180 from the third actuator position to the second actuator position to further rotate tool head 3130 relative to tool base 3110 in the same rotational direction.

[0052] In various examples, and as described in more detail below, the direction of rotation of the tool head 3130 relative to the tool base 3110 is variable and depends on the initial configuration of the tool head 3130 relative to the inner slider 3120.

[0053] The axial position of tool head 3130 in each configuration can also be used as a reference for description. Figures 3A to 3C The configuration. For example, when actuator 3180 is in the first actuator position ( Figure 3A When the module installation tool 3100 is in a retracted configuration, and the tool head 3130 (in) Figure 3A (Not visible in the middle) can be described as being in a first axial position relative to the tool base 3110.

[0054] When actuator 3180 is in the second actuator position ( Figure 3B When the module mounting tool 3100 is in an extended configuration, the tool head 3130 can be described as being in a second axial position relative to the tool base 3110. Therefore, the actuator 3180 is translated from the second actuator position to the third actuator position. Figure 3C It is operable to rotate the tool head 3130 relative to the tool base 3110 while the tool head 3130 remains in the second axial position.

[0055] In some examples, Figure 3B and Figure 3C The configuration of each of them can be described as an extension of the modular mounting tool 3100. In other words, the extension of the modular mounting tool 3100 can refer to the axial configuration of the tool head 3130 relative to the tool base 3110, and is independent of the axial position of the inner slider 3120 and / or the actuator 3180.

[0056] Figures 4A to 4B The feature portion of the tool head guide 4140 of the tool head 4130 is illustrated. For example... Figures 4A to 4B As shown, the tool head guide 4140 may include one or more paths (such as mounting path 4152, which is provided by...) Figure 4A (indicated by the solid arrow in the text) and remove path 4154 (by Figure 4B The solid arrows in the diagram indicate the first end position 4142 and the second end position 4144 that are connected to each other.

[0057] Figures 4A to 4B Each of these is additionally indicated by a dashed line to represent the initial position of the tool head rotary driver 4150 along the tool head guide 4140. When the tool head rotary driver 4150 is positioned at the first end position 4142, the tool head 4130 can be described as being in a first rotational orientation, and when the tool head rotary driver 4150 is positioned at the second end position 4144, the tool head can be described as being in a second rotational orientation.

[0058] When the tool head rotary driver 4150 is positioned at the first end position 4142, the tool head 4130 can be described as being in a first initial configuration. Similarly, when the tool head rotary driver 4150 is positioned at the second end position 4144, the tool head 4130 can be described as being in a second initial configuration.

[0059] As described in more detail below, when the tool head is in the first initial configuration and the actuator is in the second actuator position (e.g., Figure 3B When moving the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position (e.g., Figure 3C This allows the tool head to be positioned relative to the tool base in the mounting rotation direction (e.g., Figure 1 The installation rotation direction (1008) rotates from the first rotation orientation to the second rotation orientation.

[0060] Similarly, when the tool head is in the second initial configuration and the actuator is in the second actuator position, moving the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position will cause the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base in the removal rotation direction (e.g., Figure 1 The removal rotation direction (1006) rotates from the second rotation orientation to the first rotation orientation.

[0061] Figure 4A An example of a mounting path 4152 connecting a first end position 4142 and a second end position 4144 is shown, such that driving a tool head rotary driver 4150 from the first end position 4142 to the second end position 4144 along the mounting path 4152 causes the tool head 4130 to rotate in the mounting rotation direction. Specifically, with the tool head rotary driver 4150 initially positioned at the first end position 4142, moving the actuator in the proximal direction (e.g., from a second actuator position to a third actuator position) allows the tool head rotary driver 4150 to travel in the proximal direction through the mounting path 4152 of the tool head guide 4140 until it encounters an angled edge of the tool head guide 4140.

[0062] Because the tool head rotary actuator 4150 is constrained to travel in the axial direction (due to its fixed position relative to the rotationally constrained inner slider), pushing the tool head rotary actuator 4150 against the angled surface of the tool head 4130 (e.g., the angled edge of the tool head guide 4140) causes the tool head 4130 to rotate about its central longitudinal axis, such as in Figure 1 The installation rotation direction is shown as 1008.

[0063] When the tool head rotary actuator 4150 is driven through the mounting path 4152, the tool head rotary actuator 4150 can reach the intermediate position 4146 of the mounting path, which represents the nearest side position along the mounting path 4152. With the tool head rotary actuator 4150 positioned at the intermediate position 4146 of the mounting path, moving the actuator in the distal direction (e.g., from the third actuator position to the second actuator position) can cause the tool head rotary actuator 4150 to travel distally through the tool head guide 4140, such as in... Figure 2 The tool head spring 2136 is shown to be biased. That is, when the tool head 4130 is in a given axial position (e.g., Figures 3B to 3C In the case of the second axial position, moving the actuator in the distal direction allows the tool head spring to move the inner slider in the distal direction relative to the tool head. This allows the tool head rotary drive 4150 to travel in the distal direction from the intermediate position 4146 of the mounting path towards the second end position 4144 through the mounting path 4152 of the tool head guide 4140. In this way, the tool head spring can be described as biasing the tool head rotary drive 4150 toward and / or to the second end position 4144.

[0064] More specifically, in Figure 4AIn the example, moving the tool head rotary driver 4150 proximally from the first end position 4142 causes the tool head rotary driver 4150 to travel along the first mounting path segment 4252 until it encounters the first angled surface 4240. As the tool head rotary driver 4150 travels along the second mounting path segment 4254, which engages the first angled surface 4240, the tool head rotary driver 4150 rotates the tool head 4130 in the mounting rotation direction. Then, the tool head rotary driver 4150 travels axially along the third mounting path segment 4256 until it encounters the second angled surface 4242. As the tool head rotary driver 4150 travels along the fourth mounting path segment 4258, which engages the second angled surface 4242, the tool head rotary driver 4150 further rotates the tool head 4130 in the mounting rotation direction until the tool head rotary driver 4150 reaches the middle position 4146 of the mounting path. Then, the tool head rotary actuator 4150 can travel distally along the fifth mounting path segment 4260 from the middle position 4146 of the mounting path until it encounters the third angled surface 4244. As the tool head rotary actuator 4150 travels along the sixth mounting path segment 4262, which engages with the third angled surface 4244, it can further rotate the tool head 4130 in the mounting rotation direction to achieve a second rotational orientation. Then, the tool head rotary actuator 4150 can travel axially along the seventh mounting path segment 4264 to the second end position 4144.

[0065] Figure 4B An example of a removal path 4154 connecting a second end position 4144 and a first end position 4142 is shown, such that driving a tool head rotary actuator 4150 along the removal path 4154 from the second end position 4144 to the first end position 4142 causes the tool head 4130 to rotate in the removal rotation direction. Specifically, with the tool head rotary actuator 4150 initially positioned at the second end position 4144, moving the actuator in the proximal direction (e.g., from a second actuator position to a third actuator position) allows the tool head rotary actuator 4150 to travel in the proximal direction through the removal path 4154 of the tool head guide 4140 until it encounters an angled edge of the tool head guide 4140, causing the tool head 4130 to rotate.

[0066] When the tool head rotary actuator 4150 is driven through the removal path 4154, the tool head rotary actuator 4150 can reach a removal path midpoint position 4148, which represents the nearest side position along the removal path 4154. With the tool head rotary actuator 4150 positioned at the removal path midpoint position 4148, moving the actuator in the distal direction (e.g., from the third actuator position to the second actuator position) allows the tool head rotary actuator 4150 to travel distally through the tool head guide 4140, such as in... Figure 2 The tool head spring 2136 is shown to be biased. This allows the tool head rotary drive 4150 to travel in the distal direction from the middle position 4148 of the removal path toward the first end position 4142 through the removal path 4154 of the tool head guide 4140. In this way, the tool head spring can be described as biasing the tool head rotary drive 4150 toward and / or to the first end position 4142.

[0067] More specifically, in Figure 4A In the example, moving the tool head rotary driver 4150 proximally from the second end position 4144 causes the tool head rotary driver 4150 to travel along the first removal path segment 4266 until it encounters the fourth angled surface 4246. As the tool head rotary driver 4150 travels along the second removal path segment 4268, engagement between the tool head rotary driver 4150 and the fourth angled surface 4246 causes the tool head 4130 to rotate from the second rotational orientation to the first rotational orientation in the removal rotational direction. After reaching the middle position 4148 of the removal path, the tool head rotary driver 4150 may travel distally along the third removal path segment 4270 until it encounters the fifth angled surface 4248. Driving the tool head rotary driver 4150 along the fourth removal path segment 4272, which engages with the fifth angled surface 4248, causes the tool head 4130 to rotate in the mounting rotational direction until the tool head rotary driver encounters the fifth angled surface 4250. The tool head rotary actuator 4150, driven along the fifth removal path segment 4274 which engages with the sixth angled surface 4250, can rotate the tool head 4130 back in the removal rotation direction to achieve a first rotational orientation. The tool head rotary actuator 4150 can then travel axially along the sixth removal path segment 4276 to a first end position 4142.

[0068] like Figures 4A to 4B As shown, the tool head guide 4140 may additionally include a bridging path 4156 that interconnects the mounting path 4152 and the removal path 4154. In this way, and as... Figure 4A As shown by the dashed lines, the tool head rotary driver 4150 can travel from the first end position 4142 to the second end position 4144 via the bridging path 4156 instead of the mounting path 4152. Similarly, and as... Figure 4B As shown by the dashed line, the tool head rotary driver 4150 can travel from the second end position 4144 to the first end position 4142 via the bridging path 4156 instead of the removal path 4154.

[0069] Therefore, bridging path 4156 allows the user to switch tool head 4130 between a first initial configuration and a second initial configuration without guiding the tool head rotation driver 4150 along installation path 4152 or removal path 4154, such as when the module installation tool is removed from the system to which the module is to be installed.

[0070] like Figures 4A to 4B As shown, the bridging path 4156 may be spaced apart from the first end position 4142 and the second end position 4144 (e.g., axially displaced) to limit accidental movement of the tool head rotary drive 4150 along the bridging path 4156.

[0071] In some examples, the tool head 4130, the inner slider (e.g., the inner slider 3120 of FIG3) and / or the tool base (e.g., the tool base 3110 of FIG3) may include alignment marks to help identify the first initial configuration and / or the second initial configuration.

[0072] Figures 4A to 4B An example is illustrated in which the removal path 4154 differs from the installation path 4152, and where each of the installation path 4152 and the removal path 4154 is defined by a static structure (i.e., a channel formed in the tool head 4130). However, not all examples are necessary. For example, a modular installation tool may include a path selector such as a movable door and / or spring tab (which alters the shape of the tool head guide 4140 to selectively guide the tool head rotary actuator 4150 along the installation path 4152 or the removal path 4154), which is also within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the path selector may operate to act as a one-way escapement to indicate the direction of movement of the tool head rotary actuator 4150.

[0073] Figures 4A to 4B The tool head guide 4140 shown can be on the opposite side of the tool head 4130 (e.g., on...). Figures 4A to 4B (On an invisible surface) it can be reproduced, which can then be a second tool head rotary drive for the modular mounting tool. In various examples, tool head 4130 may include any suitable number of repeating instances of tool head guide 4140, which may be connected to each other and / or may extend circumferentially (e.g., fully circumferentially) around tool head 4130.

[0074] Additionally or alternatively, in other examples, the tool head guide 4140 and / or the tool head rotary driver 4150 may be configured such that the tool head 4130 rotates in the same rotational direction each time the user actuates it. For example, the module mounting tool 5100 may be configured such that driving the actuator 4180 from a second actuator position to a third actuator position and back to the second actuator position causes the tool head 4130 to rotate in a given direction (e.g., the mounting rotational direction or the removal rotational direction), regardless of the initial position of the tool head rotary driver 4150 relative to the tool head guide. In some such examples, the rotational direction may be switched between the mounting rotational direction and the removal rotational direction via a switch or other input actuated by the user.

[0075] Figures 5A to 5E An operational sequence is illustrated, through which the module mounting tool 5100 can mount the module 5010 to the module receiver via the interaction between the tool head rotary driver 5150 and the tool head guide 5140 of the tool head 5130. Figures 5A to 5E (Not shown in the image). In particular, Figures 5A to 5E The tool head guide 5140 is illustrated so that the inner slider 5120 can cause the tool head 5130 to rotate in the mounting direction (e.g., Figure 1 The installation rotation direction is 1008) and the rotation method is as follows.

[0076] exist Figures 5A to 5E In the following description, reference is made to the various parts of the toolhead guide 5140. For clarity, such parts may not be explicitly stated. Figures 5A to 5E The text is marked with a Chinese character, but it should be understood that such parts are related to... Figures 4A to 4B The markings on the tool head guide 4140 correspond to this. Additionally, in Figures 5A to 5E In the image, for clarity, the inner slider 5120 is shown as transparent.

[0077] exist Figures 5A to 5E In the example, module 5010 includes a housing 5012 and a housing coupling clip 5014 rotatably coupled to the housing 5012 (e.g., Figure 5E (As illustrated in the figure), tool head 5130 can be configured to engage housing coupling clip 5014 to support housing 5012 with module mounting tool 5100. Housing coupling clip 5014 can also be configured to be operatively coupled to module receiver to operatively support housing 5012 relative to module receiver. Figures 5A to 5E In the example, module 5010 includes and / or may include an ion source, such as for a mass spectrometer system. In this way, module installation tool 5100 can be configured to install an ion source into and / or remove an ion source from a mass spectrometer system.

[0078] Figure 5AAn example is illustrated in which module 5010 is operatively coupled to tool head 5130 and where actuator 5180 is driven in the proximal direction 5002 to engage module 5010 with module receiver. Figure 5A In the configuration, the tool head rotary driver 5150 is located at the first end position within the tool head guide rail 5140, so that the tool head 5130 is in the first rotational orientation.

[0079] Figure 5B An example is shown where the actuator 5180 is in the second actuator position, such that the tool head 5130 has reached the second axial position. Figure 5B In this configuration, due to the engagement between module 5010 and module receiver, tool head 5130 is restricted from further axial translation along the proximal direction 5002.

[0080] When actuator 5180 from Figure 5B The configuration shifts towards the proximal side to Figure 5C In this configuration, the tool head rotary actuator 5150 moves along the mounting path from a first end position to a middle position. During this movement, engagement between the tool head rotary actuator 5150 and each of the first and second angled surfaces of the tool head guide 5140 causes the tool head 5130 to rotate in the mounting rotation direction toward a second rotational orientation. Figure 5C In the configuration, actuator 5180 is in the third actuator position, and tool head 5130 is held in the second axial position.

[0081] When actuator 5180 from Figure 5C The third actuator position returns to Figure 5D When the tool head rotary driver 5150 is in the second actuator position, it moves from the middle position of the mounting path to the second end position. During this movement, the engagement between the tool head rotary driver 5150 and the third angled surface of the tool head guide 5140 causes the tool head 5130 to rotate further in the mounting rotation direction to the second rotational orientation. Figure 5D In the configuration, the tool head 5130 remains engaged with module 5010, but is decoupled from module 5010.

[0082] When actuator 5180 is in the distal direction 5004 from Figure 5D The configuration further shifted to Figure 5E In the configuration, the inner slider 5120 and the tool head 5130 retract in unison, thereby enabling the module 5010 to be operatively mounted to the module receiver. Further translation of the actuator 5180 in the distal direction 5004 allows the inner slider 5120 and the tool head 5130 to retract into the tool base 5110.

[0083] Figures 6A to 6EAn operational sequence is illustrated, through which the module mounting tool 6100 can be moved from the module receiver (by means of interaction between the tool head rotary driver 6150 and the tool head guide 6140 of the tool head 6130) via the interaction between the tool head rotary driver 6150 and the tool head guide 6140 of the tool head 6130. Figures 6A to 6E Remove module 6010 (not shown in the image).

[0084] exist Figures 6A to 6E In the following description, reference is made to the various parts of the toolhead guide 6140. For clarity, such parts may not be explicitly stated. Figures 6A to 6E The text is marked with a Chinese character, but it should be understood that such parts are related to... Figures 4A to 4B The markings on the tool head guide 4140 correspond to this. Additionally, in Figures 6A to 6E In the image, for clarity, the inner slider 6120 is shown as transparent.

[0085] Figure 6A An example is illustrated in which module 6010 is operatively coupled to module receiver and where actuator 6180 is driven in the proximal direction 6002 to engage tool head 6130 with module 6010. Figure 6A In the configuration, the tool head rotary driver 6150 is located at the second end position within the tool head guide 6140, so that the tool head 6130 is in the second rotation orientation.

[0086] Figure 6B An example is shown where the actuator 6180 is in the second actuator position, such that the tool head 6130 has reached the second axial position. Figure 6B In the configuration, due to the engagement between the tool head 6130 and the module 6010, the tool head 6130 is restricted from further axial translation along the proximal direction 6002, and the module is axially constrained by the module receiver.

[0087] When actuator 6180 from Figure 6B The configuration shifts towards the proximal side to Figure 6C In this configuration, the tool head rotary actuator 6150 moves along the removal path from a second end position to a middle position. During this movement, the engagement between the tool head rotary actuator 6150 and the fourth angled surface of the tool head guide 6140 causes the tool head 6130 to rotate to a first rotational orientation in the removal rotation direction. Figure 6C In the configuration, actuator 6180 is in the third actuator position, and tool head 6130 is held in the second axial position.

[0088] When actuator 6180 from Figure 6C The third actuator position returns to Figure 6DWhen the tool head rotary driver 6150 is in the second actuator position, it moves from the intermediate position of the removal path to the first end position. During this movement, engagement between the tool head rotary driver 6150 and the fifth angled surface of the tool head guide 6140 causes the tool head 6130 to rotate slightly in the mounting direction, while subsequent engagement between the tool head rotary driver 6150 and the sixth angled surface causes the tool head 6130 to rotate back to the first rotational orientation in the removal direction. In this way, moving the tool head rotary driver 6150 from the intermediate removal position to the first end position results in no net rotation of the tool head 6130.

[0089] Due to the rotation of tool head 6130 relative to module 6010, tool head 6130 in Figure 6D In the configuration, it is operably coupled to module 6010, and module 6010 is decoupled from module receiver.

[0090] When actuator 6180 is in the distal direction 6004 from Figure 6D The configuration further shifted to Figure 6E In the configuration, the inner slider 6120, tool head 6130, and module 6010 retract in unison. Further translation of the actuator 6180 in the distal direction 6004 allows the inner slider 6120, tool head 6130, and module 6010 to retract into the tool base 6110.

[0091] As mentioned above Figure 2 As discussed in the context, the module installation tool 2100 may include a tool head interlock device 2160 that selectively restricts the inner slider 2120 from translating proximally relative to the tool head 2130. Figures 7A to 7C The function of the tool head interlock device 7160 is illustrated in more detail.

[0092] When the tool head 7130 is not operably positioned relative to the module receiver 7020, the tool head interlock device 7160 advantageously limits and / or prevents accidental rotation of the tool head 7130. For example, accidental rotation of the tool head 7130 could cause misalignment of the module relative to the module receiver 7020 if the tool head 7130 is not properly positioned relative to the module receiver 7020 for receiving or releasing the module. Therefore, the tool head interlock device 7160 is operable to allow axial translation of the inner slider 7120 relative to the tool head 7130 only when the tool head 7130 is in the preferred position relative to the module receiver 7020.

[0093] The tool head interlock device 7160 is configured in a locking configuration ( Figure 7A ) and unlocked configuration ( Figures 7B to 7CThe tool head interlock device 7160 transitions between locked and unlocked configurations. When the tool head interlock device 7160 is in the locked configuration, the inner slider 7120 is restricted from translating relative to the tool head 7130. When the tool head interlock device 7160 is in the unlocked configuration, the inner slider 7120 is free to translate relative to the tool head 7130 (e.g., in the proximal direction 7002). The tool head interlock device 7160 can be configured to transition from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration when the module mounting tool 7100 is in the extended configuration and the tool head interlock device 7160 engages the module receiver 7020.

[0094] Figure 7A An example is illustrated in which the module installation tool 7100 is in an extended configuration and the tool head interlocking end region 7162 of the tool head interlocking device 7160 is adjacent to the module receiver 7020. Figure 7A In the example, the tool head interlocking device 7160 includes a tool head interlocking biasing mechanism 7164 that biases the tool head interlocking device 7160 toward a locking configuration. Specifically, in Figure 7A In the example, the tool head interlock biasing mechanism 7164 is a tool head interlock spring 7166 that biases the tool head interlock end region 7162 relative to the tool head 7130 in the proximal direction 7002.

[0095] Additionally, in Figure 7A In the example, the tool head interlocking device 7160 includes a pair of interlocking bearing receivers 7170 (one of which is in...) Figure 7A (marked in the middle), and the module installation tool 7100 includes a corresponding pair of tool head interlock bearings 7172 (one of which is in the middle). Figure 7A (Example shown). Each tool head interlock bearing 7172 may restrict and / or prevent axial movement relative to the tool head 7130 and / or may be constrained and supported by the tool head 7130.

[0096] When the tool head interlocking device 7160 is in the locked configuration, each tool head interlocking bearing 7172 may extend at least partially radially outward of the tool head 7130 to restrict, impede, and / or prevent axial movement of the inner slider 7120 relative to the tool head interlocking bearing 7172. For example, in Figure 7A In the configuration, each tool head interlock bearing 7172 impedes the axial translation of the inner slider 7120 in the proximal direction 7002. Therefore, when the tool head interlock device 7160 is in the locked configuration, the axial translation of the inner slider 7120 in the proximal direction 7002 causes the tool head 7130 to move in unison with the inner slider 7120.

[0097] In some examples, and such as Figure 7A As shown, the inner slider 7210 may include a pair of slider bearing receivers 7174 (one of which is in...) Figure 7A(marked in the middle), the pair of slider bearing receivers are configured to at least partially receive the corresponding tool head interlock bearing 7172 when the tool head interlock device 7160 is in the locked configuration. Each slider bearing receiver 7174 may be located on the proximal edge of the inner slider 7120 (e.g., ...). Figure 2 The recess, depression, pit, etc. at or near the proximal edge 2126 of the slider shown, and / or may be spaced apart from the proximal edge of the slider along the distal direction 7004.

[0098] When the module installation tool 7100 is in the proximal direction 7002 from Figure 7A The configuration was further translated to Figure 7B In this configuration, from the perspective of the tool head 7130, the module receiver 7020 can push the tool head interlocking end region 7162 relative to the tool head 7130 in the distal direction 7004. From the perspective of the module receiver 7020, such movement can be described as the tool head interlocking device 7160 remaining fixed in place when the tool head 7130 moves relative to the tool head interlocking device 7160 in the proximal direction 7002.

[0099] exist Figure 7B In this configuration, each interlock bearing receiver 7170 is aligned with a corresponding tool head interlock bearing 7172, such that each tool head interlock bearing 7172 can be moved radially inward to be at least partially received within the interlock bearing receiver 7170. Therefore, Figure 7B An example of an unlocking configuration of the tool head interlocking device 7160 is illustrated, wherein each tool head interlocking bearing 7172 is radially inwardly displaced relative to the tool head 7130 and relative to the locking configuration to allow the inner slider 7210 to be axially translated (e.g., in the proximal direction 7002) through the axial position of the tool head interlocking bearing 7172.

[0100] When the tool head interlock bearing 7172 no longer obstructs the axial movement of the inner slider 7120, the inner slider 7120 can move from... Figure 7B The configuration advances towards the proximal side. Figure 7C This configuration can cause the tool head 7130 to rotate relative to the inner slider 7120, as described above. Figures 5A to 6E This is discussed in the context of [the previous sentence]. In this way, Figure 7B This corresponds to a configuration where the actuator is in the second actuator position, and Figure 7C This corresponds to a configuration where the actuator is in the third actuator position. For clarity, Figures 7A to 7C This process is depicted from the angle at which the tool head 7130 is rotated (e.g., from the angle at which the inner slider 7120 rotates relative to the tool head 7130).

[0101] When from Figure 7A The locked configuration has been transformed to Figure 7B When the unlocking configuration is engaged, each tool head interlock bearing 7172 can be radially translated inward by the radial component of the force on each tool head interlock bearing 7172 via the inner slider 7120. Similarly, when from... Figure 7B The unlocking configuration has been transformed to Figure 7A In the locking configuration, when the tool head interlock device 7160 translates relative to the tool head interlock bearing 7172 in the proximal direction 7002, each tool head interlock bearing 7172 can be translated radially outward by the radial component of the force applied to the tool head interlock bearing by the inclined surface of the corresponding interlock bearing receiver. In other examples, each tool head interlock bearing 7172 may be biased radially inward or radially outward.

[0102] In various examples, the tool head 7130 and / or the tool head interlocking device 7160 may include any of a variety of additional or alternative structures and / or mechanisms to selectively limit the axial translation of the inner slider 7210 relative to the tool head 7130. As an example, the tool head interlocking device 7160 may additionally or alternatively include and / or may be a lever arm, a cam, a pin, and / or another mechanism that interacts with components associated with the module receiver to release relative movement between the tool head 7130 and the inner sleeve 7120.

[0103] Figures 8A to 8B It is similar to Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the module mounting tool 8100, wherein the actuator 8180 is in various axial positions. As discussed above, the module mounting tool 8100 can be used in conjunction with systems operating under vacuum conditions, while maintaining such systems under vacuum. Therefore, such systems may include valves that isolate the vacuum zone when closed and allow the module mounting tool 8100 to enter the vacuum zone when open.

[0104] In some examples, and as follows: Figures 10A to 10D As described in the context, the module installation tool 8100 can be configured to extend through the valve when the valve is in the open state. In some such examples, it may be desirable to restrict the valve from changing from the open state to the closed state unless the module installation tool 8100 is removed from the valve. Therefore, and as... Figures 8A to 8B As shown, the module installation tool 8100 may include a valve interlock device 8220, which is configured to selectively restrict the transition of such valves from an open state to a closed state.

[0105] Figure 8A An example is shown of a valve interlock device 8220 in a locked configuration, while Figure 8BAn example is shown of a valve interlock device 8220 in an unlocked configuration. Specifically, in this example, the valve interlock device 8220 includes a valve interlock body 8222 that extends at least partially within the tool base 8110 and terminates at a valve interlock end region 8224. Figure 8A As shown, the valve interlock end region 8224 extends outside the tool base 8110 at least when the valve interlock device 8220 is in the locked configuration. Changing the valve interlock device 8220 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration may include translating the valve interlock body 8222 in the distal direction 8004 such that when the valve interlock device 8220 is in the unlocked configuration, the valve interlock end region 8224 is at least partially received within the tool base 8110.

[0106] like Figure 8A As shown, the valve interlock device 8220 may include a valve interlock biasing mechanism 8230, which biases the valve interlock device 8220 toward a locking configuration.

[0107] Actuator 8180 is operable to, for example, switch valve interlock device 8220 to an unlocked configuration via engagement between inner slider 8120 and valve interlock device 8220. For example, and as... Figures 8A to 8B As shown, the valve interlock body 8222 may include a valve interlock plate 8226 positioned within the tool base 8110, and the valve interlock biasing mechanism 8230 may include and / or may be a valve interlock spring 8232 that biases the valve interlock plate 8226 in the proximal direction 8002.

[0108] When actuator 8180 is in the distal direction 8004 from Figure 8A The configuration is translated to Figure 8B In the configuration, the inner slider 8120 can engage the valve interlock plate 8226 to move the valve interlock body 8222 in the distal direction 8004, thereby moving the valve interlock end region 8224 in the distal direction 8004.

[0109] like Figures 8A to 8B As shown, the valve interlock device 8220 can be described as a component that provides additional functionality to the slider position interlock device 8200. For example, the slider position interlock device 8200 may additionally include and / or form a slider track 8210 (e.g., Figure 2 The slider track 2210 restricts the rotation of the inner slider 8120 relative to the tool base 8110. (See reference...) Figure 9 To understand this function, the figure separately illustrates the slider position interlock device 9200 and the inner slider 9120.

[0110] like Figure 9As shown, the inner slider 9120 may include a track groove 9122 that at least partially receives the slider track 9210. In this way, the inner slider 9120 may translate relative to the slider track 9210 in a proximal direction 9002 or a distal direction 9004, while the engagement between the slider track 9210 and the track groove 9122 may restrict rotation of the inner slider 9120 relative to the slider track 9210.

[0111] Figures 10A to 10D A sequence of events is schematically illustrated, through which the module installation tool 10100 can be removed from the housing 10028 of a system (such as a mass spectrometer system). In this way, Figures 10A to 10D This can be described as an example depicting the removal of a module 10010, in the form of an ion source, from a mass spectrometer system by a module installation tool 10100, which includes a valve 10024 positioned within a housing 10028. However, it should be understood that... Figures 10A to 10D The described operating principle can be applied to any system in various systems.

[0112] Figure 10A An example is illustrated in which the module mounting tool 10100 is operatively coupled to a housing 10028 (wherein a tool base 10110 is received within and coupled to a tool receiver 10022 that supports the module mounting tool 10100 relative to the module receiver 10020). Figure 10A In the configuration, the module installation tool 10100 extends through the valve 10024 in the open state, and the valve interlock end region 10224 of the valve interlock device 10220 is received within the interlock receiver 10026 of the valve 10024.

[0113] Although Figure 10A The example shown is of valve 10024 being a ball valve, but it should be understood that... Figures 10A to 10D The described operating principle can be used in conjunction with any suitable valve type. Additionally (or alternatively), in some examples, the interlock receiver 10026 receiving the interlock end region 10224 of the valve interlock may be spaced apart from the valve 10024.

[0114] Figure 10A It can be described as representing something similar to Figure 6E The configuration is such that the tool head 10130 is operatively coupled to module 10010, and module 10010 is decoupled from module receiver 10020. Therefore, Figure 10A It can be described as a configuration in which actuator 10180 is in the second actuator position.

[0115] exist Figure 10AIn the configuration, the engagement of the valve interlock end region 10224 with the interlock receiver 10026 is operable to restrict the valve 10024 from turning to a closed state, which may result in damage to the components of the module installation tool 10100 that extend through the valve 10024.

[0116] Figure 10B The illustration depicts a configuration in which the actuator 10180 has been translated in the distal direction 10004 to fully retract the inner slider 10120, tool head 10130, and module 10010 into the base cavity 10112 of the tool base 10110. Figure 10B In the configuration, the inner slider 10120 is kept spaced apart from the valve interlock plate 10226, and the valve interlock end region 10224 is kept received within the interlock receiver 10026 to restrict the valve 10024 from changing to the closed state.

[0117] exist Figure 10C In this configuration, actuator 10180 has been fully retracted to the first actuator position, causing inner slider 10120 to overcome the biasing force of valve interlock biasing mechanism 10230, allowing valve interlock plate 10226 to move in the distal direction 10004. In this configuration, valve interlock end region 10224 is removed from interlock receiver 10026, causing valve interlock device 10220 to be in an unlocked configuration, thereby allowing valve 10024 to switch to... Figure 10D The described closed state.

[0118] In this manner, the valve interlock device 10220 can be configured such that actuation of the actuator 10180 to the first actuator position switches the valve interlock device to an unlocked configuration, while the tool base 10110 remains operatively coupled to the tool receiver 10022. Therefore, the valve interlock device 10220 ensures that the valve 10024 is closed only when components of the module installation tool 10100 are completely removed from the valve 10024, while also allowing the valve 10024 to close before the module installation tool 10100 is removed from the housing 10028.

[0119] Figure 11 This is a flowchart depicting a method 11000 for installing a module to a module receiver using a module installation tool according to this disclosure. In the following discussion, the term "method 11000" is used in the context of the method corresponding to... Figures 1 to 10D The terms exemplified and / or discussed above are used to describe various components, configurations, and / or attributes. Unless otherwise specified, such components, configurations, and / or attributes described herein with reference to method 11000 are therefore to be understood as corresponding to and / or representing those mentioned above. Figures 1 to 10D Describe similarly named components, configurations, and / or attributes.

[0120] like Figure 11As shown, method 11000 includes, at 11004, translating the actuator of the module mounting tool from an initial actuator position to a second actuator position in the proximal direction, with the module operably coupled to the tool head of the module mounting tool, to engage the module with the module receiver, provided that the module is operatively coupled to the tool head of the module mounting tool. In the context of method 11000, the initial actuator position may be, but is not necessarily, the first actuator position described above. Method 11000 additionally includes, at 11008, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to a third actuator position in the proximal direction to rotate the tool head relative to the module receiver, and subsequently, at 11014, detaching the module from the tool head.

[0121] In various examples, each of the operations—translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position at 11004, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 11008, and detaching the module from the tool head at 11014—is performed when the tool base of the module mounting tool is operatively coupled to the tool receiver which is fixed in place relative to the receiver.

[0122] In some examples, and such as Figure 11 As shown, method 11000 additionally includes, at 11004 prior to translating the actuator from an initial actuator position to a second actuator position, operatively coupling the tool base to the tool receiver at 11002. Operable coupling the tool base to the tool receiver at 11002 may include coupling such that the tool base is axially fixed and / or rotationally fixed relative to the tool receiver.

[0123] In some examples, and such as Figure 11 As shown, method 11000 additionally includes removing the tool base from the tool receiver at 11022 after the module has been removed from the tool head at 11014. In some such examples, method 11000 additionally includes, at 11016, transforming the module-mounted tool into a retracted configuration in which the tool head is at least partially received within the tool base, after the module has been removed from the tool head at 11014 and before the tool base has been removed from the tool receiver at 11022. Transforming the module-mounted tool into the retracted configuration at 11016 can be performed in any suitable manner, such as by translating the actuator in a distal direction.

[0124] In some examples, the module mounting tool additionally includes a valve interlock device configured to restrict the valve from changing from an open to a closed state when the valve interlock device is in a locked configuration and the tool base is operatively coupled to the tool receiver. In some such examples, method 11000 additionally includes changing the valve from an open to a closed state at 11020 before removing the tool base from the tool receiver at 11022. In some examples, at 11018, the valve interlock device can change from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration.

[0125] The translation of the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position at 11004 can be performed in any suitable manner. For example, translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position at 11004 may include translating the actuator along the tool base of the module mounting tool and / or may include translating the actuator without rotating the actuator.

[0126] Translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 11008 can be performed in any suitable manner. For example, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 11008 may include translating the actuator without rotating it. In some examples, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 11008 operates by rotating the tool head relative to the module receiver without translating the tool head relative to the module receiver.

[0127] In some examples, method 11000 additionally includes, at 11012, translating the actuator from the third actuator position back to the second actuator position after translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 11008. In some such examples, translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position at 11012 causes the tool head to rotate further relative to the module receiver in the mounting rotation direction.

[0128] Additionally or alternatively, translating the actuator at 11012 from the third actuator position to the second actuator position can decouple the tool head from the module. In some examples, when the tool head is decoupled from the module, the tool head can remain in contact with the module until the tool head retracts away from the module.

[0129] Translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 11008 and / or from the third actuator position to the second actuator position at 11012 allows the tool head to rotate relative to the module receiver in any suitable manner. In some examples, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 11008 includes driving a tool head rotation driver at least partially along a mounting path defined by the inner slider and / or the tool head itself to rotate the tool head relative to the inner slider. In some such examples, the tool head guide includes a first end position and a second end position, and the mounting path interconnects the first end position and the second end position.

[0130] Translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 11008 may include moving the tool head rotary driver from the first end position to a position midway along the mounting path. In some examples, translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position at 11012 moves the tool head rotary driver from the midway along the mounting path to the second end position, thereby further rotating the tool head relative to the module in the mounting direction. In various examples, at 11010, the tool head rotary driver may be driven along the mounting path.

[0131] In some examples, and such as Figure 11 As shown, method 11000 additionally includes changing the tool head interlocking device of the modular installation tool from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration at 11006 before translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 11008. Specifically, changing the tool head interlocking device from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration at 11006 is operable to allow a portion of the modular installation tool (e.g., an inner slider) to move relative to the tool head in a proximal direction.

[0132] In some examples, changing the tool head interlock from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration at 11006 involves engaging the tool head interlock with the module receiver to allow the tool head to translate relative to the tool head interlock in a proximal direction.

[0133] Figure 12 This is a flowchart depicting a method 12000 for removing a module from a module receiver using a module installation tool according to this disclosure. In the following discussion, the term "method 12000" is used in the context of... Figures 1 to 11 The terms exemplified and / or discussed above are used to describe various components, configurations, and / or attributes. Unless otherwise specified, such components, configurations, and / or attributes described herein with reference to method 12000 are therefore to be understood as corresponding to and / or representing those mentioned above. Figures 1 to 11 Describe similarly named components, configurations, and / or attributes.

[0134] like Figure 12 As shown, method 12000 includes, at 12004, translating the actuator of the module mounting tool from an initial actuator position to a second actuator position in a proximal direction, provided that the module is operatively coupled to the tool head of the module mounting tool, so that the tool head of the module mounting tool engages with the module operatively coupled to the module receiver. In the context of method 12000, the initial actuator position may be, but is not necessarily, the first actuator position described above. Method 12000 additionally includes, at 12008, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to a third actuator position in a proximal direction, so as to rotate the tool head relative to the module receiver, and subsequently removing the module from the module receiver at 12014.

[0135] In various examples, each of the operations—translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position at 12004, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 12008, and removing the module from the module receiver at 12014—is performed when the tool base of the module mounting tool is operatively coupled to the tool receiver which is fixed in place relative to the receiver.

[0136] In some examples, and such as Figure 12 As shown, method 12000 additionally includes, at 12002, operably coupling the tool base to the tool receiver before translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position at 12004. Operatively coupling the tool base to the tool receiver at 12002 may include coupling such that the tool base is axially fixed and / or rotationally fixed relative to the tool receiver.

[0137] In some examples, and such as Figure 12 As shown, method 12000 additionally includes removing the tool base from the tool receiver at 12022 after removing the module from the module receiver at 12014. In some such examples, method 12000 additionally includes, at 12016, transforming the module-mounted tool into a retracted configuration in which the tool head is at least partially received within the tool base, after removing the module from the module receiver at 12014 and before removing the tool base from the tool receiver at 12022. Transforming the module-mounted tool into the retracted configuration at 12016 can be performed in any suitable manner, such as by translating the actuator in a distal direction.

[0138] In some examples, the module mounting tool additionally includes a valve interlock device configured to restrict the valve from changing from an open to a closed state when the valve interlock device is in a locked configuration and the tool base is operatively coupled to the tool receiver. In some such examples, method 12000 additionally includes changing the valve from an open to a closed state at 12020 before removing the tool base from the tool receiver at 12022. In some examples, the valve interlock device can change from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration at 12018.

[0139] Translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position at 12004 can be performed in any suitable manner. For example, translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position at 12004 may include translating the actuator along the tool base of the module mounting tool and / or may include translating the actuator without rotating the actuator.

[0140] Translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 12008 can be performed in any suitable manner. For example, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 12008 may include translating the actuator without rotating it. In some examples, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 12008 operates by rotating the tool head relative to the module receiver without translating the tool head relative to the module receiver.

[0141] In some examples, method 12000 additionally includes translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position at 12012 after translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 12008. In some such examples, translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position at 12012 causes the tool head to rotate further relative to the module receiver in the removal rotation direction.

[0142] Additionally or alternatively, translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position at 12012 can decouple the module from the module receiver. In some examples, when the module is decoupled from the module receiver, the module can remain in contact with the module receiver until the tool head retracts away from the module receiver.

[0143] Translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 12008 and / or from the third actuator position to the second actuator position at 12012 allows the tool head to rotate relative to the module receiver in any suitable manner. In some examples, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 12008 includes driving a tool head rotation driver at least partially along a removal path defined by the inner slider and / or the tool head as a tool head guide, thereby rotating the tool head relative to the inner slider. In some such examples, the tool head guide includes a first end position and a second end position, and the removal path interconnects the second end position and the first end position.

[0144] Translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 12008 may include moving the tool head rotary drive from the second end position to a midpoint of the removal path. In some examples, translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position at 12012 moves the tool head rotary drive from the midpoint of the removal path to a first end position, thereby further rotating the tool head relative to the module in the removal direction.

[0145] In some examples, and such as Figure 12 As shown, method 12000 additionally includes, at 12006, changing the tool head interlocking device of the modular mounting tool from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration before translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position at 12008. Specifically, changing the tool head interlocking device from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration at 12006 is operable to allow a portion of the modular mounting tool (e.g., an inner slider) to move proximally relative to the tool head. In some examples, changing the tool head interlocking device from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration at 12006 includes cauterizing the tool head interlocking device with the module receiver to cause the tool head to translate proximally relative to the tool head interlocking device. In various examples, at 12010, a tool head rotation driver can be driven along the mounting path.

[0146] General considerations

[0147] As used in this application and claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Additionally, the term “comprising” means “including.” Furthermore, the term “coupled” does not exclude the existence of intermediate elements between coupled items.

[0148] Unless otherwise stated, the term "substantially" as used herein means the listed values ​​and / or properties and any value and / or property that is at least 75% of the listed values ​​and / or properties. Equivalently, the term "substantially" means the listed values ​​and / or properties and any value and / or property that differs from the listed values ​​and / or properties by at most 25%. For example, "substantially equal" means quantities that are exactly equal and quantities that differ from each other by at most 25%.

[0149] The systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein should not be construed as limiting in any way. Rather, this disclosure relates to all novel and non-obvious features and aspects of the various disclosed examples, whether individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations formed with each other. The disclosed systems, methods, and apparatuses are not limited to any particular aspect or feature or combination thereof, nor are they required to possess any one or more particular advantages or problems solved. Any operational theory is provided for ease of interpretation, but the disclosed systems, methods, and apparatuses are not limited to such operational theories.

[0150] Although some of the methods disclosed are described in a specific order for ease of presentation, it should be understood that this descriptive approach includes rearrangement unless the specific language described below requires a particular order. For example, operations described sequentially may be rearranged or performed concurrently in some cases. Furthermore, for simplicity, the accompanying drawings may not show the various ways in which the disclosed systems, methods, and apparatus can be used in conjunction with other systems, methods, and apparatus. Additionally, this description sometimes uses terms such as “produce” and “provide” to describe the disclosed methods. These terms are high-level abstractions of the actual operations performed. The actual operations corresponding to these terms will vary depending on the specific implementation and can be readily identified by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0151] In some examples, values, procedures, etc., may be characterized by qualifying terms such as “lowest,” “best,” “minimum,” “extreme,” etc. It should be understood that such descriptions are intended to indicate that a choice can be made among many alternative functionalities used, and that such a choice is not necessarily better, smaller, or otherwise more desirable than the other options.

[0152] Additional embodiments of the disclosed technology

[0153] The principles of the disclosed techniques have been described and illustrated with reference to the illustrative examples. It should be understood that modifications in arrangement and detail of the illustrative examples may be made without departing from such principles. Furthermore, techniques from any example may be combined with techniques described in any one or more other examples. It should be understood that procedures and functions such as those described with reference to the illustrative examples can be implemented using any suitable device and / or hardware (including devices and / or hardware not specifically disclosed and / or illustrated herein).

[0154] Example 1. An apparatus comprising: a tool head configured to engage and support a module, the module being configured to selectively couple to a module receiver; a tool base; and an actuator slidably coupled to the tool base, wherein the apparatus is configured such that axial movement of the actuator relative to the tool base causes rotation of the tool head relative to the tool base to couple the module to the module receiver or decouple the module from the module receiver.

[0155] Example 2. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 1, wherein the tool base is configured to selectively couple to a tool receiver that supports the device relative to the module receiver.

[0156] Example 3. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 2, wherein the tool receiver is fixed in place relative to the module receiver.

[0157] Example 4. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 2 to 3, wherein the tool base includes a tool receiver mating mechanism configured to selectively couple the tool base to the tool receiver.

[0158] Example 5. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 4, wherein the tool receiver mating mechanism includes one or both of the following: (i) an alignment feature configured to rotatably align the tool base relative to the tool receiver; and (ii) a sealing surface configured to form an airtight seal against the tool receiver.

[0159] Example 6. A device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 2 to 5, wherein the device is configured to extend through a valve in an open state when the tool base is coupled to the tool receiver.

[0160] Example 7. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 6, further includes a valve interlock device configured to selectively restrict the valve from transitioning from the open state to the closed state.

[0161] Example 8. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 7, wherein the valve interlocking device is configured to switch between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, and wherein the actuator is configured to switch the valve interlocking device to the unlocked configuration when the tool base is operatively coupled to the tool receiver.

[0162] Example 9. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 8, wherein the valve interlock device includes a valve interlock biasing mechanism that biases the valve interlock device toward the locking configuration.

[0163] Example 10. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 9, wherein the valve interlock biasing mechanism includes a valve interlock spring that is pressed down by the inner slider of the device when the device is in a retracted configuration.

[0164] Example 11. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 8 to 10, wherein the tool base is translated in the proximal direction relative to the valve interlocking device to change from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

[0165] Example 12. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 8 to 11, wherein the valve interlocking device includes a valve interlocking body that extends at least partially within the tool base and terminates at a valve interlocking end region that extends at least outside the tool base when the valve interlocking device is in the locked configuration.

[0166] Example 13. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 12, wherein when the valve interlock device is in the unlocked configuration, the valve interlock end portion is at least partially received within the tool base.

[0167] Example 14. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 12 to 13, wherein the valve interlock body includes a valve interlock plate positioned within the tool base, and wherein the device includes an inner slider configured to engage the valve interlock plate to change the valve interlock device from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration.

[0168] Example 15. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 7 to 14, further includes a slider position interlock device, the slider position interlock device including the valve interlock device.

[0169] Example 16. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein moving the actuator from a first actuator position to a second actuator position causes the tool head to translate relative to the tool base without rotating relative to the tool base.

[0170] Example 17. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 16, wherein moving the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position causes the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base without translating relative to the tool base.

[0171] Example 18. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 17, wherein the second actuator position is located between the first actuator position and the third actuator position.

[0172] Example 19. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 17 to 18, wherein moving the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position causes the tool head to rotate in a rotational direction relative to the tool base, and wherein subsequently moving the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position causes the tool head to rotate further in the same rotational direction relative to the tool base.

[0173] Example 20. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 17 to 19, wherein the tool head is configured to switch between a plurality of configurations including a first initial configuration and a second initial configuration, wherein when the tool head is in the first initial configuration and the actuator is in the second actuator position, the actuator is moved from the second actuator position to the third actuator position to rotate the tool head relative to the tool base in an installation rotation direction, and wherein when the tool head is in the second initial configuration and the actuator is in the second actuator position, the actuator is moved from the second actuator position to the third actuator position to rotate the tool head relative to the tool base in a removal rotation direction opposite to the installation rotation direction.

[0174] Example 21. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 20, wherein when the tool head is in the first initial configuration and the actuator is in the second actuator position, moving the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position and then returning to the second actuator position causes the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base in the mounting rotation direction when the actuator moves from the third actuator position to the second actuator position.

[0175] Example 22. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 20 to 21, wherein when the tool head is in the second initial configuration and the actuator is in the second actuator position, the actuator is moved from the second actuator position to the third actuator position and then returned to the second actuator position such that the tool head rotates relative to the tool base in the removal rotation direction when the actuator moves from the third actuator position to the second actuator position.

[0176] Example 23. A device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the device is configured such that axial movement of the actuator relative to the tool base causes the device to transform between a plurality of configurations defined between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration and including the retracted configuration and the extended configuration, wherein in the retracted configuration the tool head is in a first axial position relative to the tool base, and in the extended configuration the tool head is in a second axial position relative to the tool base, the second axial position being displaced from the first axial position in a proximal direction, and wherein the device is configured to rotate the tool head relative to the tool base when the tool head is held in the second axial position.

[0177] Example 24. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein when the device is in the retracted configuration, the actuator is in a first actuator position relative to the tool base, wherein when the device is in the extended configuration, the actuator is in a second actuator position relative to the tool base, and wherein moving the actuator relative to the tool base from the second actuator position to a third actuator position causes the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base while the tool head is held in the second axial position.

[0178] Example 25. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 24, further includes an inner slider configured to translate relative to each of the tool base and the tool head, wherein the axial translation of the inner slider relative to the tool head causes the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base.

[0179] Example 26. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 25, wherein the inner slider is at least partially received within the tool base.

[0180] Example 27. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 26, wherein moving the actuator relative to the tool base causes the inner slider to translate relative to the tool base.

[0181] Example 28. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 27, wherein the tool base extends between the actuator and the inner slider.

[0182] Example 29. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 28, further includes: a tool head guide rail defined by one or both of the inner slider and the tool head; and a tool head rotation driver fixed in place relative to the inner slider or the tool head, wherein translating the inner slider relative to the tool head causes the tool head rotation driver to travel along the tool head guide rail to rotate the tool head relative to the tool base.

[0183] Example 30. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 29, wherein the tool head guide includes a channel formed in the tool head, and wherein the tool head rotary drive includes a ball bearing that travels along a path defined by the channel as the inner slider moves relative to the tool head.

[0184] Example 31. A device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 29 to 30, wherein the tool head guide includes: a first end position; a second end position; an installation path connecting the first end position and the second end position; and a removal path connecting the first end position and the second end position, wherein the device is configured such that when the tool head rotary driver moves from the first end position to the second end position along the installation path, the tool head rotates relative to the tool base in an installation rotation direction, and wherein the device is configured such that when the tool head rotary driver moves from the second end position to the first end position via the removal path, the tool head rotates relative to the tool base in a removal rotation direction opposite to the installation rotation direction.

[0185] Example 32. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 31, wherein the removal path is at least partially different from the installation path.

[0186] Example 33. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 31 to 32, wherein when the tool head rotary driver is in the first end position, the actuator moves the inner slider relative to the tool head to move the tool head rotary driver along the mounting path to the second end position, and wherein when the tool head rotary driver is in the second end position, the actuator moves the inner slider relative to the tool head to move the tool head rotary driver along the removal path to the first end position.

[0187] Example 34. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 31 to 33, wherein the mounting path includes a midpoint of the mounting path, the midpoint of the mounting path being the closest position along the mounting path, wherein the inner slider is moved relative to the tool head to move the tool head rotary driver from the first end position to the midpoint of the mounting path to rotate the tool head in the mounting rotation direction, and wherein the inner slider is moved relative to the tool head to move the tool head rotary driver from the midpoint of the mounting path to the second end position to further rotate the tool head in the mounting rotation direction.

[0188] Example 35. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 34, further includes a tool head spring that biases the inner slider relative to the tool head in a distal direction, wherein the tool head spring is configured to move the inner slider relative to the tool head in the distal direction to move the tool head rotary drive from the middle position of the mounting path toward the second end position.

[0189] Example 36. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 31 to 35, wherein the removal path includes a removal path intermediate position, the removal path intermediate position being the closest side position along the removal path, wherein the inner slider is moved relative to the tool head to move the tool head rotary driver from the second end position to the removal path intermediate position to rotate the tool head in the removal rotation direction, and wherein the inner slider is moved relative to the tool head to move the tool head rotary driver from the removal path intermediate position to the first end position to further rotate the tool head in the removal rotation direction.

[0190] Example 37. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 36, further includes a tool head spring that biases the inner slider relative to the tool head in the distal direction, wherein the tool head spring is configured to move the inner slider relative to the tool head in the distal direction to move the tool head rotary drive from the middle position of the removal path toward the first end position.

[0191] Example 38. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 31 to 37, wherein the tool head guide further includes a bridging path that interconnects the mounting path and the removal path.

[0192] Example 39. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 38, wherein the bridging path is spaced apart from one or both of the first end position and the second end position.

[0193] Example 40. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 31 to 39, wherein the installation path and the removal path are defined by a static structure.

[0194] Example 41. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 31 to 40, further includes a path selector that alters the shape of the tool head guide to selectively guide the tool head rotary driver along the installation path or the removal path.

[0195] Example 42. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 29 to 41, wherein the tool head rotary driver is fixedly coupled to one of the inner slider or the tool head.

[0196] Example 43. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 29 to 42, wherein the tool head rotary drive is constrainedly supported by either the inner slider or the tool head.

[0197] Example 44. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 29 to 43, wherein the tool head rotary drive comprises a ball bearing.

[0198] Example 45. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 29 to 44, wherein the tool head rotary drive includes a pin.

[0199] Example 46. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 45, further includes a tool head interlocking device that selectively restricts the translation of the inner slider relative to the tool head.

[0200] Example 47. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 46, wherein the tool head interlocking device is configured to switch between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, in which the inner slider is restricted to translation relative to the tool head, and in the unlocked configuration, the inner slider is freely translated relative to the tool head.

[0201] Example 48. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 47, wherein the tool head interlocking device is configured to transition to the unlocked configuration when the device is in an extended configuration and the tool head interlocking device engages the module receiver.

[0202] Example 49. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 47 to 48, wherein the tool head interlocking device includes a tool head interlocking end portion configured to engage a portion of the module receiver, and wherein when the tool head is driven toward the module receiver, the module receiver pushes the tool head interlocking end portion in a distal direction relative to the tool head to change the tool head interlocking device from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

[0203] Example 50. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 47 to 49, wherein the tool head interlocking device includes a tool head interlocking biasing mechanism that biases the tool head interlocking device toward the locking configuration.

[0204] Example 51. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 50, wherein the tool head interlock biasing mechanism includes a tool head interlock spring that biases the tool head interlock end region of the tool head interlocking device relative to the tool head in a proximal direction.

[0205] Example 52. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 47 to 51, wherein the tool head interlocking device includes an interlock bearing receiver, and wherein the device further includes a tool head interlock bearing, wherein when the tool head interlocking device is in the unlocked configuration, the tool head interlock bearing is at least partially received within the interlock bearing receiver.

[0206] Example 53. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 52, wherein the tool head interlock bearing is restricted to axial movement relative to the tool head, wherein when the tool head interlock device is in the locked configuration, the tool head interlock bearing extends at least partially radially outward of the tool head to restrict axial movement of the inner slider relative to the tool head interlock bearing, and wherein when the tool head interlock device is in the unlocked configuration, the tool head interlock bearing is radially inwardly displaced relative to the tool head relative to the locked configuration to allow the inner slider to axially translate through the position of the tool head interlock bearing.

[0207] Example 54. A device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 47 to 53, wherein the actuator is configured to translate in a proximal direction from a first actuator position to a second actuator position to transform the device from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration, in which the tool head is in a first axial position relative to the tool base, and in the extended configuration, the tool head is in a second axial position relative to the tool base, the second axial position being displaced in the proximal direction from the first axial position, and wherein the tool head interlocking device is configured to transform to the unlocked configuration when the device is in the extended configuration and the tool head interlocking device engages the module receiver.

[0208] Example 55. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 54, wherein when the device is in the retracted configuration, the actuator is in a first actuator position relative to the tool base, wherein when the device is in the extended configuration, the actuator is in a second actuator position relative to the tool base, and wherein moving the actuator relative to the tool base from the second actuator position to a third actuator position causes the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base while the tool head remains in the second axial position.

[0209] Example 56. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 55, wherein the actuator and the inner slider are coupled to each other via a non-contact coupling.

[0210] Example 57. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 56, further includes a magnetic coupling mechanism for magnetically coupling the actuator and the inner slider to each other.

[0211] Example 58. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 57, wherein the magnetic coupling mechanism includes an actuator magnet fixedly coupled to the actuator and an inner slider magnet fixedly coupled to the inner slider.

[0212] Example 59. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 57 to 58, wherein the actuator includes a magnetic shield that at least partially shields an area outside the actuator from the magnetic field generated by the magnetic coupling mechanism.

[0213] Example 60. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 59, wherein the actuator includes an outer sleeve configured for gripping by a user, and wherein the outer sleeve includes the magnetic shield.

[0214] Example 61. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 57 to 60, wherein the magnetic coupling mechanism restricts the actuator from rotating relative to the inner slider.

[0215] Example 62. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 61, wherein the inner slider is restricted to rotate relative to the tool base.

[0216] Example 63. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 25 to 62, further includes a slider rail that engages the inner slider to limit rotation of the inner slider relative to the tool base.

[0217] Example 64. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 63, wherein the slider track is rotatably fixed relative to the tool base.

[0218] Example 65. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 63 to 64, wherein the slider track extends longitudinally within the tool base, and wherein the inner slider includes a track groove that receives the slider track, such that the inner slider can translate relative to the slider track.

[0219] Example 66. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 63 to 65, further includes a slider position interlock device, the slider position interlock device comprising a slider track.

[0220] Example 67. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 66, wherein the tool base includes a base cavity, and wherein when the device is in the retracted configuration, the tool head is at least partially received and optionally fully received within the base cavity.

[0221] Example 68. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 67, wherein the tool base includes a base cavity, and wherein when the module is operatively coupled to the tool head and the device is in the retracted configuration, the module is at least partially received and optionally fully received within the base cavity.

[0222] Example 69. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 68, further includes the module.

[0223] Example 70. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 69, wherein the module includes an ion source.

[0224] Example 71. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 70, wherein the module includes a housing and a housing coupling clamp rotatably coupled to the housing, wherein the tool head is configured to engage the housing coupling clamp to support the housing using the device.

[0225] Example 72. The device according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 1 to 71, wherein the module receiver is included in a mass spectrometer system, and wherein the device is configured to install the module into the mass spectrometer system and remove the module from the mass spectrometer system.

[0226] Example 73. A method comprising: with a module operatively coupled to a tool head of a module mounting tool, translating an actuator of the module mounting tool in a proximal direction from an initial actuator position to a second actuator position to engage the module with a module receiver; translating the actuator in the proximal direction from the second actuator position to a third actuator position to rotate the tool head relative to the module receiver in a mounting rotation direction, thereby coupling the module at least partially to the module receiver; and detaching the module from the tool head.

[0227] Example 74. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 73, wherein the module mounting tool includes a tool base supporting the tool head, and wherein each operation of translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position, and detaching the module from the tool head is performed while the tool base is operatively coupled to a tool receiver that is fixed in place relative to the module receiver.

[0228] Example 75. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 74, further includes operatively coupling the tool base to the tool receiver before translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position.

[0229] Example 76. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 75, wherein operatively coupling the tool base to the tool receiver includes coupling such that the tool base is either axially fixed relative to the tool receiver or rotatably fixed relative to the tool receiver, or both.

[0230] Example 77. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 73 to 76, further includes removing the tool base from the tool receiver after the module is detached from the tool head.

[0231] Example 78. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 77, further includes, after the module is detached from the tool head and before the tool base is removed from the tool receiver, converting the module mounting tool to a retracted configuration in which the tool head is at least partially received within the tool base.

[0232] Example 79. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 78, wherein transforming the module mounting tool to the retracted configuration comprises translating the actuator in a distal direction opposite to the proximal direction.

[0233] Example 80. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 78 to 79, wherein the module mounting tool further includes a valve interlock device configured to restrict the valve from changing from an open state to a closed state when the valve interlock device is in a locked configuration and the tool base is operatively coupled to the tool receiver, and wherein changing the module mounting tool to the retracted configuration includes changing the valve interlock device from the locked configuration to an unlocked configuration to allow the valve to change to the closed state.

[0234] Example 81. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 80, further includes changing the valve from the open state to the closed state before removing the tool base from the tool receiver.

[0235] Example 82. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 73 to 81, wherein translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position comprises translating the actuator along the tool base of the module mounting tool.

[0236] Example 83. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 73 to 82, wherein translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position comprises translating the actuator without rotating the actuator.

[0237] Example 84. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 73 to 83, wherein translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position comprises translating the actuator without rotating the actuator.

[0238] Example 85. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 73 to 84, wherein translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position is operated to rotate the tool head relative to the module receiver without translating the tool head relative to the module receiver.

[0239] Example 86. A method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 73 to 85, wherein the module mounting tool comprises: an inner slider configured to translate axially relative to the tool head; a tool head guide defined by one or both of the inner slider and the tool head; and a tool head rotary driver fixed in place relative to the inner slider or the tool head, wherein translating the actuator from a second actuator position to the third actuator position comprises driving the tool head rotary driver at least partially along a mounting path of the tool head guide to rotate the tool head relative to the inner slider.

[0240] Example 87. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 86, wherein the tool head guide includes a first end position and a second end position, wherein the mounting path interconnects the first end position and the second end position, wherein translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position includes moving the tool head rotary driver from the first end position to a mounting path intermediate position, and wherein the method further includes translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position to move the tool head rotary driver from the mounting path intermediate position to the second end position, thereby causing the tool head to rotate further relative to the module in the mounting rotation direction.

[0241] Example 88. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 87, further includes translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position after translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position.

[0242] Example 89. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 88, wherein translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position causes the tool head to rotate further relative to the module receiver in the mounting rotation direction.

[0243] Example 90. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 88 to 89, wherein translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position decouples the tool head from the module.

[0244] Example 91. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 73 to 90, further includes changing the tool head interlocking device of the modular installation tool from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration before translating the actuator to the third actuator position, so as to allow a portion of the modular installation tool to move relative to the tool head in the proximal direction.

[0245] Example 92. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 91, wherein changing the tool head interlocking device from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration includes causing the tool head interlocking device to engage with the module receiver to cause the tool head to translate relative to the tool head interlocking device in a proximal direction.

[0246] Example 93. A method comprising: translating an actuator of a module mounting tool from an initial actuator position to a second actuator position in a proximal direction to engage a tool head of the module mounting tool with a module operatively coupled to a module receiver; translating the actuator from the second actuator position to a third actuator position in the proximal direction to rotate the tool head relative to the module in a removal rotation direction to at least partially couple the module to the tool head; and removing the module from the module receiver.

[0247] Example 94. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 93, wherein the module mounting tool includes a tool base supporting the tool head, and wherein each operation of translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position, and removing the module from the module receiver is performed while the tool base is operatively coupled to the tool receiver which is fixed in place relative to the module receiver.

[0248] Example 95. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 94, further includes operatively coupling the tool base to the tool receiver before translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position.

[0249] Example 96. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 95, wherein operatively coupling the tool base to the tool receiver includes coupling such that the tool base is either axially fixed relative to the tool receiver or rotatably fixed relative to the tool receiver, or both.

[0250] Example 97. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 93 to 96, further includes removing the tool base from the tool receiver after removing the module from the module receiver.

[0251] Example 98. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 97, further includes, after removing the module from the module receiver and before removing the tool base from the tool receiver, converting the module mounting tool to a retracted configuration in which the module is at least partially received within the tool base.

[0252] Example 99. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 98, wherein transforming the module mounting tool to the retracted configuration comprises translating the actuator in a distal direction opposite to the proximal direction.

[0253] Example 100. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 98 to 99, wherein the module mounting tool further includes a valve interlock device configured to restrict the valve from changing from an open state to a closed state when the valve interlock device is in a locked configuration and the tool base is operatively coupled to the tool receiver, and wherein changing the module mounting tool to the retracted configuration includes changing the valve interlock device from the locked configuration to an unlocked configuration to allow the valve to change to the closed state.

[0254] Example 101. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 100, further includes changing the valve from the open state to the closed state before removing the tool base from the tool receiver.

[0255] Example 102. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 93 to 101, wherein translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position comprises translating the actuator along the tool base of the module mounting tool.

[0256] Example 103. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 93 to 102, wherein translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position comprises translating the actuator without rotating the actuator.

[0257] Example 104. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 93 to 103, wherein translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position comprises translating the actuator without rotating the actuator.

[0258] Example 105. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 93 to 104, wherein translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position is operated to rotate the tool head relative to the module receiver without translating the tool head relative to the module receiver.

[0259] Example 106. A method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 93 to 105, wherein the module mounting tool comprises: an inner slider configured to translate axially relative to the tool head; a tool head guide defined by one or both of the inner slider and the tool head; and a tool head rotation driver fixed in place relative to the inner slider or the tool head, wherein translating the actuator from a second actuator position to the third actuator position comprises driving the tool head rotation driver at least partially along a removal path of the tool head guide to rotate the tool head relative to the inner slider.

[0260] Example 107. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 106, wherein the tool head guide includes a first end position and a second end position, wherein the removal path interconnects the first end position and the second end position, wherein translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position includes moving the tool head rotary driver from the second end position to a removal path intermediate position, and wherein the method further includes translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position to move the tool head rotary driver from the removal path intermediate position to the first end position to further rotate the tool head relative to the module in the removal rotation direction.

[0261] Example 108. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 93 to 107, further includes translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position after translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position.

[0262] Example 109. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 108, wherein translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position causes the tool head to rotate further relative to the module receiver in the removal rotation direction.

[0263] Example 110. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 108 to 109, wherein translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position decouples the module from the module receiver.

[0264] Example 111. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly any one of Examples 93 to 110, further includes changing the tool head interlocking device of the modular installation tool from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration before translating the actuator to the third actuator position, so as to allow a portion of the modular installation tool to move relative to the tool head in the proximal direction.

[0265] Example 112. The method according to any embodiment herein, particularly Example 111, wherein changing the tool head interlocking device from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration includes causing the tool head interlocking device to engage with the module receiver to cause the tool head to translate relative to the tool head interlocking device in a proximal direction.

[0266] Given the numerous possible embodiments in which the principles of the disclosed technology can be applied, it should be understood that the illustrated embodiments are merely preferred embodiments of the invention and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the technology. Specifically, the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims. The inventors therefore claim that the entire invention falls within the scope and spirit of the claims.

Claims

1. A module installation tool, the module installation tool comprising: a tool head configured to engage and support a module, wherein the module is configured to be selectively coupled to a module receiver; a tool base; and an actuator slidably coupled to the tool base to provide axial movement of the actuator relative to the tool base, wherein the axial movement is configured to rotate the tool head relative to the tool base to couple the module to the module receiver or decouple the module from the module receiver.

2. The module installation tool of claim 1, wherein the actuator is configured to move from a first actuator position to a second actuator position, the movement causing the tool head to translate relative to the tool base without rotating relative to the tool base, and wherein the actuator is configured to move from the second actuator position to a third actuator position, the movement causing the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base without translating relative to the tool base.

3. The module installation tool of claim 2, wherein the actuator is configured to move from the second actuator position to the third actuator position, the movement causing the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base in a rotational direction, and wherein the actuator is configured to subsequently move from the third actuator position to the second actuator position, the movement causing the tool head to further rotate relative to the tool base in the same rotational direction.

4. The module installation tool of claim 2, wherein the tool head is configured to transition between a plurality of configurations including a first initial configuration and a second initial configuration, wherein moving the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position when the tool head is in the first initial configuration and the actuator is in the second actuator position causes the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base in an installation rotational direction, and wherein moving the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position when the tool head is in the second initial configuration and the actuator is in the second actuator position causes the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base in a removal rotational direction opposite the installation rotational direction.

5. The module installation tool of claim 1, further comprising an inner slider configured to translate relative to each of the tool base and the tool head, wherein axial translation of the inner slider relative to the tool head causes the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base, and wherein moving the actuator relative to the tool base causes the inner slider to translate relative to the tool base.

6. The module installation tool of claim 5, further comprising a magnetic coupling mechanism that magnetically couples the actuator and the inner slider to one another. ​ 7. The module installation tool of claim 1, wherein the module comprises an ion source, wherein the module receiver is comprised in a mass spectrometer system, and wherein the apparatus is configured to install the module to the mass spectrometer system and remove the module from the mass spectrometer system.

8. The module installation tool of claim 7, further comprising the mass spectrometer system.

9. A module installation tool, the module installation tool comprising: a tool head configured to engage and support a module, the module configured to be selectively coupled to a module receiver; a tool base; an actuator slidably coupled to the tool base; and an inner slide at least partially received within the tool base and configured to translate relative to each of the tool base and the tool head, wherein moving the actuator relative to the tool base translates the inner slide relative to the tool base, wherein the apparatus is configured such that axially moving the actuator relative to the tool base transitions the apparatus between a plurality of configurations, the plurality of configurations defined between and including a retracted configuration in which the tool head is in a first axial position relative to the tool base and an extended configuration in which the tool head is in a second axial position relative to the tool base, the second axial position displaced from the first axial position in a proximal direction, and wherein the apparatus is configured to rotate the tool head relative to the tool base while the tool head remains in the second axial position.

10. The module installation tool of claim 9, wherein the actuator is in a first actuator position relative to the tool base when the apparatus is in the retracted configuration, wherein the actuator is in a second actuator position relative to the tool base when the apparatus is in the extended configuration, and wherein moving the actuator relative to the tool base from the second actuator position to a third actuator position rotates the tool head relative to the tool base while the tool head remains in the second axial position.

11. The module installation tool of claim 9, further comprising: a tool head rail defined by one or both of the inner slide and the tool head; and a tool head rotation driver fixed in place relative to one of the inner slide or the tool head, and wherein translating the inner slide relative to the tool head causes the tool head rotation driver to travel along the tool head rail to rotate the tool head relative to the tool base.

12. The module installation tool of claim 11, wherein the tool head rail comprises: a first end position; a second end position; an installation path connecting the first end position and the second end position; and a removal path connecting the first end position and the second end position, wherein the apparatus is configured such that, as the tool head rotational drive moves along the installation path from the first end position to the second end position, the tool head rotates relative to the tool base in an installation rotational direction, and wherein the apparatus is configured such that, as the tool head rotational drive moves along the removal path from the second end position to the first end position, the tool head rotates relative to the tool base in a removal rotational direction opposite the installation rotational direction.

13. The module installation tool of claim 12, wherein, when the tool head rotational drive is in the first end position, moving the inner slide relative to the tool head with the actuator causes the tool head rotational drive to follow the installation path to the second end position, and wherein, when the tool head rotational drive is in the second end position, moving the inner slide relative to the tool head with the actuator causes the tool head rotational drive to follow the removal path to the first end position.

14. The module installation tool of claim 9, further comprising a tool head interlock configured to selectively restrict translation of the inner slide relative to the tool head, wherein the tool head interlock is configured to transition between a locked configuration in which the inner slide is restricted from translating relative to the tool head and an unlocked configuration in which the inner slide is free to translate relative to the tool head, and wherein the tool head interlock is configured to transition to the unlocked configuration when the apparatus is in the extended configuration and the tool head interlock engages the module receiver.

15. A method comprising: with a module operably coupled to a tool head of a module installation tool, translating an actuator of the module installation tool in a proximal direction from an initial actuator position to a second actuator position to cause the module to engage a module receiver; translating the actuator in the proximal direction from the second actuator position to a third actuator position to cause the tool head to rotate relative to the module receiver in an installation rotational direction, thereby at least partially coupling the module to the module receiver; and decoupling the module from the tool head.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position comprises translating the actuator without rotating the actuator.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising, after translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position, translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position, wherein translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position causes the tool head to further rotate relative to the module receiver in the installation rotational direction.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the module installation tool comprises: ​ an inner slide configured to translate axially relative to the tool head; a tool head guide defined by one or both of the inner slide and the tool head; and a tool head rotary drive fixed in place relative to one of the inner slide or the tool head, and wherein translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position includes driving the tool head rotary drive at least partially along a mounting path of the tool head guide to rotate the tool head relative to the inner slide.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the tool head guide includes a first end position and a second end position, wherein the mounting path interconnects the first end position and the second end position, wherein translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position includes moving the tool head rotary drive from the first end position to a mounting path mid-position of the mounting path, and wherein the method further includes translating the actuator from the third actuator position to the second actuator position to move the tool head rotary drive from the mounting path mid-position to the second end position to further rotate the tool head relative to the module in the mounting rotation direction.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the module mounting tool includes a tool base that supports the tool head, and wherein each of translating the actuator from the initial actuator position to the second actuator position, translating the actuator from the second actuator position to the third actuator position, and decoupling the module from the tool head is performed while the tool base is operably coupled to a tool receiver that is fixed in place relative to the module receiver.

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