Medical device having a ball bearing or a sliding bearing as a generator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a motor-operated or manually operated or operable medical instrument (1) comprising a plurality of bearings for supporting a shaft (21) for applying torque to a tool (17), at least two selected or selectable bearings (6a, 6b) of which form a bearing pair (6), and a distance sleeve (6c) for axially separating the bearings (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6), the instrument (1) comprising a part (11) at least partially radially spaced apart by the distance sleeve (6c). The bearing (6c) includes a part (11) located inside and rotatably coupled or coupleable with at least one bearing (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6) so as to rotate together with a rotating portion of at least one of the two bearings (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6) or so as to form a rotating portion of at least one bearing (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6), at least one permanent magnet (12) attached to or configured within the part (11), and a coil (13) arranged on or within the distance sleeve (6c).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a medical instrument that is preferably operated by a motor or manually, and therein preferably for rotationally operating a surgical tool that is optionally received, and having at least one bearing or bearing unit of a ball bearing or sliding bearing type preferably having a current generator function.

Background Art

[0002] Medical instruments, in particular surgical motor systems, i.e., surgical instruments that are manually operated or have a motor, such as milling, drilling, or screwing handpieces, are increasingly equipped with new functions that require the transfer, transmission, or sending of electrical signals. Such new functions are, for example, the following. The temperature at the tip of the tool (drilling tool or milling tool) is determined via a temperature sensor, The force / torque during milling or drilling is determined via a strain gauge, or The type of tool inserted into the medical instrument (drilling / milling handpiece) is identified via a sensor or antenna, such as an RFID or NFC reading antenna. Vibration sensors or tilt sensors, and various types of sensors with various functions can also be provided.

[0003] These new functions are common in that they need to be electrically connected to a control device for the transmission, transfer, or sending of data.

[0004] Heretofore, such electrical connections have been achieved, for example, by attaching or inserting signal lines to the milling handpiece itself. In this case, the electrical signal travels through a separate channel through the shaft of the medical instrument (drilling / milling handpiece) and is transmitted via individual insulated signal strands that extend to the tip / distal end of the medical instrument (drilling / milling handpiece). However, since surgical / medical instruments such as drilling handpieces or milling handpieces have a compact structure and limited installation space, inserting or incorporating conventional signal lines into the instrument means that the outer diameter of the instrument, particularly the outer diameter of the instrument shaft that extends optionally in the distal direction (away from the user / surgeon), must be increased. This is because an additional channel for the insulated signal strands is required.

[0005] However, from the user's perspective, the lack of incorporation of signal strands into the existing structure of the medical instrument in this way is undesirable and should be judged negatively. This is because it deteriorates the user / surgeon's visual access to the patient's surgical site and makes the medical instrument (handpiece) unable to fit particularly narrow surgical access. Furthermore, the existing structure is characterized by difficult installation, difficult connection options, and complex connection of multiple signal generators when used as a bus.

[0006] Also, the prior art always has the drawback that the power supply for the above-described assembly or sensor must be provided in the form of a line that reaches the assembly through the medical instrument (handpiece having an instrument shaft if necessary). For this purpose, an electrical connection to a higher voltage power supply is always provided in the overall system or the corresponding control device.

[0007] Therefore, there may be a need to provide a concept for at least partially autonomous power supply by the medical instrument, particularly the handpiece itself.

[0008] A specific example of the current prior art is German Patent Publication No. 102007012586 using a dental treatment machine.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present disclosure is to avoid or at least reduce the drawbacks of the prior art. In particular, electrical energy should be collected / retrieved during the use of the medical device (energy collection).

Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] This object is solved by a medical device having the features of claim 1 (operated by a motor / manually operated). Advantageous embodiments of the disclosed medical device are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0011] Therefore, the basic idea of the present disclosure is that at least one bearing / bearing unit / bearing device, preferably of the ball bearing or sliding bearing type, is configured to have a current generator function such that mechanical energy is converted / retrieved into electrical energy that can be used to supply at least partially to the bearing / bearing unit / bearing device, particularly to the sensor system of the device itself, during the manual or motor operation of the medical device.

[0012] In particular, in the case of a hand-held instrument type medical device, preferably for minimally invasive procedures, the instrument effector (forceps, scissors, tweezers, cutting tool, etc.) is coupled to the hand part or grip part via a relatively slender instrument shaft, and it has been found that the sensor system is provided on or near the effector, through which specific measurement variables must be tapped. Such a sensor system must be supplied with electrical energy via a conductor cable, and the cable must be arranged from the grip part over / through the instrument shaft to the effector.

[0013] On the one hand, as provided in the present invention, when at least one bearing / bearing unit / bearing device is used as a current generator, especially within an instrument shaft, the cable wiring distance can be significantly reduced compared to the prior art.

[0014] Regarding the structure, the above basic concept can be implemented, especially in the case of ball bearings, in that the (ball) cage holding / carrying the balls is configured to comprise / have at least one or a plurality of circumferentially spaced permanent magnets, and a sleeve (bearing ring or the instrument shaft itself, which is stationary relative to the cage) surrounding (at least partially) the (ball) cage is configured / provided to have at least one coil / as having at least one coil. The sleeve is associated with (integrated into) the bearing / bearing unit / bearing device and may be a separate sleeve (bearing ring) surrounding at least the cage radially outwardly, or a housing part of a medical instrument supporting the bearing / bearing unit / bearing device (radially outwardly), or an instrument (extension) shaft extending axially (away from the user) in the distal direction of the medical instrument, preferably, optionally, being coupled (available in various lengths) to the instrument (handpiece / handle) or being configured integrally with the instrument (handpiece / handle).

[0015] In the case of a sliding bearing, for example, the bearing sleeve (corresponding to the above-mentioned sleeve) on the radially outer side is configured into an axial section having at least one coil, and, for example, a receptacle sleeve slidably and axially rotatably supported within the bearing housing is provided to receive a tool shaft or a drive rod (corresponding to the above-mentioned cage) with at least one or a plurality of circumferentially spaced permanent magnets.

[0016] In the case of ball bearings / ball bearing units, it is advantageous to couple two axially spaced ball bearings, each having an inner ring and an outer ring, via a common ball cage, and to provide at least an axially spaced distance sleeve between the two outer rings of the axially spaced ball bearings, the distance sleeve axially surrounding at least the ball cage between the two outer rings, thus forming the above-mentioned sleeve and thus axially spacing the outer rings. A bearing unit configured in this way is preferably insertable / insertable into an instrument shaft, for example, to receive a torque transmission rod (gear rod) or a tool shaft, the instrument shaft optionally extending axially (distally) a medical instrument (handpiece).

[0017] More abstractly, a bearing component (ball cage) is provided that is inserted into or insertable into a bearing sleeve (instrument extension shaft / instrument housing) provided for a medical instrument (instrument / handpiece). The component (ball cage) has at least one cylindrical part. The cylindrical part has magnetization. This may be in the form of complete magnetization or in the form of one or more individual permanent magnets, i.e., a magnet arrangement in the form of permanent magnets. The magnetization is provided or configured to co-rotate in the direction of rotation of the motor of the medical instrument or in the direction opposite to the direction of rotation during operation of the medical instrument. Further, the magnetization is provided or configured to induce a current in a coil provided in the bearing sleeve (instrument extension shaft / instrument housing), i.e., based on co-rotation.

[0018] Due to the magnetization in the component (ball cage) inserted into the medical instrument (instrument / handpiece) during use and in response to the rotation of the component caused by the rotation of the motor, the magnetic field changes, which effectively induces a current in the bearing sleeve (instrument extension shaft / instrument housing) by appropriately applying the coil. This makes it possible to achieve at least a partially autonomous power supply for devices, sensors, etc. connected to the coil.

[0019] The component (ball cage) can be abstractly understood in this specification. On the one hand, it may already be inserted into the bearing sleeve (instrument extension shaft / instrument housing), and on the other hand, it is inserted for use. In the inserted state, the component (ball cage) may be attached to the bearing sleeve (instrument extension shaft / instrument housing) so as to co-rotate, preferably in the same direction, at least in response to the rotation of the motor. This can be a direct or indirect transmission. This may depend on the position and attachment of the component (ball cage) within the bearing sleeve (instrument extension shaft / instrument housing).

[0020] The cylindrical part may be part of the component (ball cage) or the entire component (ball cage). The cylindrical part may be a hollow cylindrical body or a solid cylindrical body. In one example, more than 90% of the component (ball bearing) may be the cylindrical part. In another example, more than 50% of the component (ball cage) may be the cylindrical part.

[0021] The component (ball cage) can have one or more permanent magnets. The magnetization may be constituted by one or more permanent magnets. One or more permanent magnets may be attached to the cylindrical part. Thus, one or more permanent magnets provide magnetization to the component (ball cage).

[0022] The N and S poles of each of the one or more permanent magnets may be arranged adjacent to each other in the radial direction of the cylindrical part. For example, each N or S pole may be located further away from the center of the cylindrical part or on the outer side in the radial direction, respectively. Each of the one or more permanent magnets can have an extent in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical part. The extent of the permanent magnet in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical part may be at least one-fourth, preferably about one-half, of the extent of the cylindrical part in the longitudinal direction.

[0023] The outer jacket or outer surface of the cylindrical portion of the component (ball cage) may have one or more recesses or depressions. The recess may include at least a portion of one or more permanent magnets. The other portions of the one or more permanent magnets may protrude. The one or more permanent magnets may be fixed within the one or more recesses or indentations via an adhesive / glue. The adhesive can be based on, for example, silicon, especially a silicon encapsulant. The silicon encapsulant can also serve to protect the one or more permanent magnets from corrosion. The solvent may be a mixture of an ester and an aliphatic solvent in the adhesive. Similarly, the one or more permanent magnets may fit properly into the one or more recesses or depressions. For this purpose, the one or more recesses or depressions may be configured as a fitting portion. Thus, magnetization can be simply integrated.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of permanent magnets may be arranged on both sides of the cylindrical portion. This may correspond to an angular distance along the circumference of the 180° cylindrical portion. Further, when there are three permanent magnets, the angular distance between the plurality of permanent magnets from each other may be about 120°. When there are four permanent magnets, the angular distance between the plurality of permanent magnets from each other may be about 90° (etc.). With these arrangements of the permanent magnets, an electric current can be effectively induced in a coil provided on the bearing sleeve.

[0025] In an advantageous embodiment, the component (ball cage) may be a cylindrical pipe or may be solid in the axial section. The cylindrical pipe or the solid body preferably has receptacle cavities in each end region for the balls of two axially spaced ball bearings. It should be noted that at this point, needles or cylindrical rollers can also be provided instead of the balls.

[0026] More preferably, two axially spaced ball bearings, each consisting of an inner and an outer ring, balls mounted radially therebetween, a common single ball cage, and a radially outer sleeve / distance sleeve surrounding the ball cage between the outer rings are combined to form, for example, a single cartridge-like unit that can be simply inserted / positioned on top within an instrument extension shaft, an instrument housing, or a tool shaft.

[0027] Put another way, the object defined above is solved in a general instrument by providing an instrument extension shaft for a medical instrument (instrument / handpiece) or for any attachment to a medical instrument (handpiece). The instrument extension shaft may be attached to a medical instrument or may be part of a medical instrument. The instrument extension shaft has a meandering or helical coil disposed flat on the inner circumferential side, and the aforementioned coil is configured directly within / on the shaft or within / on a separate distance sleeve inserted into the shaft. The coil is configured to generate an electric current during operation of the medical instrument, preferably based on the magnetization of a component (ball cage) that rotates in the rotational direction of the motor of the medical instrument, as described above.

[0028] According to one or more embodiments, a signal line or signal path can be more effectively integrated into an existing structure of a medical instrument, such as a surgical (motor) instrument (drilling / milling handpiece), without increasing the outer diameter of the medical instrument or, for example, the outer diameter of an instrument extension shaft surrounding a ball cage, or without changing the dimensions of a medical instrument or a component (ball cage) provided on the medical instrument. For example, a new manufacturing method for a ball / rolling bearing and an instrument extension shaft is provided, which allows an electrical signal to pass through the ball / rolling bearing and the instrument extension shaft and enables the transfer / transmission / delivery of the electrical signal between these components, while the dimensions of the components (ball / rolling bearing and instrument extension shaft) remain unchanged, and as a result, the outer diameter of the medical instrument does not increase. Thus, the medical instrument maintains its compact structure and the existing installation space is properly utilized. A rolling bearing, particularly a ball bearing, can preferably be configured to transfer or transmit an electrical signal in multiple directions, and for this purpose, it can have at least one signal line or signal path integrated into the ball / rolling bearing.

[0029] As described above, the rolling bearing is not limited to a ball bearing, that is, any other rolling bearing, such as a cylindrical rolling bearing, a needle rolling bearing, a tapered rolling bearing, a spherical rolling bearing, a toroidal rolling bearing, etc., should also be included herein. However, a ball bearing is a preferred embodiment of the rolling bearing in this context. It is even more preferable that the ball bearing is a micro ball bearing. The rolling / ball bearing is preferably configured, suitable, or provided for use in a medical instrument, particularly a surgical instrument / handpiece, particularly a drilling / milling handpiece, and more specifically an instrument extension shaft.

[0030] For example, the signal line or signal path may be integrated into the outer ring of the rolling bearing / ball bearing.

[0031] Preferably, the rolling bearing / ball bearing (especially the outer ring of the rolling bearing / ball bearing) is made of a non-conductive material. More preferably, the material of the rolling bearing / ball bearing (of the outer ring) is a hard material. Ceramics have proven to be particularly suitable.

[0032] The signal line is preferably made of a (high) conductive material, especially copper, silver or gold.

[0033] An advantageous embodiment provides at least one signal line, especially a signal strand, which is inserted into a hole provided in the rolling bearing / ball bearing, especially into the outer ring of the rolling bearing / ball bearing, and the aforementioned hole extends over the entire axial length of the rolling bearing / ball bearing. Preferably, the signal line or signal strand is axially fixed within the hole.

[0034] Therefore, it is preferable that the rolling bearing / ball bearing or the outer ring of the rolling bearing / ball bearing has at least one micro-hole. For example, the diameter of the hole may be smaller than 0.2 mm. Preferably, the diameter is in the range of about 0.1 mm. In particular, micro laser drilling has proven to be suitable as a manufacturing process for such micro-holes.

[0035] Therefore, the diameter of the signal line or signal strand is preferably smaller than 0.2 mm, and more preferably within the range of 0.1 mm.

[0036] The axial fixing of the signal line or signal strand in the hole can be achieved, for example, by plastic deformation of the axial ends of the signal line or signal strand. In particular, a press-fit stem has proven to be suitable. Alternatively, the hole may first be metallized (before the signal line or signal strand is inserted), and the axial fixing may be achieved via an adhesive bond or a brazed solder connection.

[0037] For example, the signal line may protrude (beyond the outer ring) in the axial direction of the rolling bearing / ball bearing, particularly at both sides / axial ends of the rolling bearing / ball bearing, and as a result, the signal line is configured to contact or plug into another component of the medical device, particularly a spacer as a separate component or a component of the instrument extension shaft. Preferably, the signal line protrudes about 0.1 to 0.3 mm beyond the outer ring so that it can be soldered to a path inserted on the ceramic.

[0038] Preferably, a plurality of, for example, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or more signal lines or signal paths are provided. The signal lines or signal paths may be distributed as desired over the circumference of the rolling bearing / ball bearing / outer ring. Also, it is conceivable to use the entire annular shape (of the outer ring) of the rolling bearing / ball bearing. Thus, the signal lines can also be evenly distributed over the annulus.

[0039] The upper limit of the number of signal lines or signal paths preferably depends on the size of the rolling bearing / ball bearing. In particular, it has been found that the ratio of the outer diameter D (in mm) of the ball bearing to the number N of holes or signal lines (particularly for a preferred hole diameter or signal line diameter) should be D / N > 0.1. By providing a plurality of signal lines or signal paths distributed around, the contact resistance can be reduced (keyword: parallel multi-conductor technology).

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the spacer, particularly the instrument extension shaft, may be configured to transfer or transmit electrical signals, preferably in multiple directions, and for this purpose, may have at least one signal line or signal path integrated into the spacer, particularly the instrument extension shaft.

[0041] More preferably, the spacer, particularly the instrument extension shaft, is configured, suitable, or provided for use in a medical device, particularly a surgical handpiece, particularly a drilling / milling handpiece.

[0042] Preferably, the distance sleeve and, optionally, the instrument extension shaft are made of a non-conductive material. More preferably, the material of the distance sleeve and, optionally, the material of the instrument extension shaft are also hard materials. Ceramics have proven to be particularly suitable. The signal line or signal path is preferably made of a (highly) conductive material, in particular copper, silver or gold.

[0043] The distance sleeve, or in particular the instrument extension shaft, is preferably arranged to transfer or transmit electrical signals axially between a first axial end and a second axial end of the instrument extension shaft and / or radially between an inner jacket surface and an outer jacket surface of the instrument extension shaft.

[0044] For example, the outer jacket surface of the distance sleeve or the inner jacket surface of the instrument extension shaft has at least one groove / channel extending over the entire axial length of the distance sleeve or the instrument extension shaft. Preferably, the signal path or signal line is provided or arranged within the groove / channel. In other words, the conductive material is arranged within the groove / channel. This means that an electrical signal can be tapped and also transferred or transmitted at the outer jacket surface / outer region of the distance sleeve and / or at the inner jacket surface of the instrument extension shaft.

[0045] At least one channel or at least one groove is preferably configured to be fine or filigree and is manufactured by grinding or engraving, in particular by laser engraving. The channel or groove is preferably metallized and coated with a highly conductive material to form the signal line or signal path.

[0046] In one example, the signal path or signal line is offset inwardly with respect to the outer jacket surface of the distance sleeve and / or with respect to the inner jacket surface of the instrument extension shaft, such that the signal path or signal line is provided only in the lower / inner region of the groove. In other words, the signal path or signal line is preferably completely sunk within the groove / channel such that the (outer / inner) jacket surface of the distance sleeve or instrument extension shaft is radially spaced from the signal path or signal line. Thus, the signal line is preferably not flush with the outer or inner jacket surface and is located further inwardly. In particular, when two or more signal paths or signal lines are provided, this ensures that the individual signal paths or signal lines are electrically separated from each other. This is necessary especially since the distance sleeve is preferably used and the instrument extension shaft of the instrument (drilling / milling handpiece) on which the distance sleeve is directly placed can be made of metal.

[0047] It is practical for an insulator to be disposed above the signal path or signal line. In other words, by additionally providing an insulator, the electrical separation of the signal path or signal line described above can be improved. The insulator may be, for example, an insert made especially of silicon. Alternatively, the insulator may be mounted, for example, via an adhesive layer. By adding an insulator, the distance sleeve, especially a medical instrument to which the instrument extension shaft is attached / inserted, especially a drilling / milling handpiece, is made less affected by a penetrating conductive liquid (e.g., a physiological saline solution).

[0048] In one or more examples, the inner jacket surface of the distance sleeve can have at least one signal path or signal line. If the signal line or signal path is additionally or alternatively provided on the inner jacket surface of the distance sleeve, the electrical signal can be tapped in the inner region in addition to being transferred or transmitted. For example, a metallized path (at least one metallized path) can be provided on the inner surface.

[0049] In a further example, a signal path or signal line provided on the inner jacket surface of the distance sleeve may be conductively connected to a signal path or signal line provided on the outer jacket surface of the distance sleeve. For example, the distance sleeve may have a micropore (microbore) extending in the radial direction of the distance sleeve, through which a signal line or signal path on the inner jacket surface can be electrically connected to (e.g., via a conductive material in the hole) / is connected to a signal line or signal path on the outer jacket surface. In other words, the hole (microbore) preferably passes between a groove / channel on the outer jacket surface and a signal line or signal path on the inner jacket surface.

[0050] In other words, vias that can also function as lands are formed, as in printed circuit board technology. This means that wired components may be integrated into the system if SMD components are not available.

[0051] The signal path or signal line may basically be inserted into the distance sleeve at various depths. Thereby, at least partially, a very thin distance sleeve can be realized. Furthermore, a plurality of signal paths or signal lines can be provided, which are inserted into the distance sleeve at various depths. This applies to both the signal paths or signal lines attached to the outer jacket surface and the inner jacket surface.

[0052] The electrical contacts and / or the read antenna may also be conductively connected to the signal line or signal path. In particular, the coil described above may be conductively connected to the signal line or signal path. This applies to both a signal line or signal path on the inner jacket surface (of the distance sleeve) and a signal line or signal path on the outer jacket surface of the distance sleeve. When a plurality of signal lines or signal paths are provided, the signal path or signal line may be interrupted on one side (e.g., the inner side) and continue on the other side (e.g., the outer side). This can be achieved by a conductive connection in a hole extending in the radial direction.

[0053] For example, an electrical contact / electrical contact surface for a sensor or another (electronic) component may be applied to the inner jacket surface of the distance sleeve, preferably being conductively connected to a signal line or signal path applied to the inner jacket surface. In this regard, an electrical contact / electrical contact surface or a plurality of electrical contacts / electrical contact surfaces for the coil may also be applied to the inner jacket surface of the distance sleeve, preferably being conductively connected to a signal line or signal path applied to the inner jacket surface. In this regard, the electrical contact / electrical contact surface may be omitted when the coil is inserted into the distance sleeve together with the signal line or signal path.

[0054] Furthermore, a read antenna is provided on the inner jacket surface, which may preferably be conductively connected to a signal line or signal path applied to the inner jacket surface. This may also be realized such that the signal line or signal path is arranged or configured on the inner jacket surface so that the signal line or signal path itself forms the read antenna. Such a read antenna can be used, for example, for reading or writing on an RFID chip.

[0055] In addition, the outer jacket surface of the distance sleeve, in particular the outer jacket surface of the instrument extension shaft, may also preferably have an electrical contact / electrical contact surface for a sensor or another component, which is conductively connected to a signal line or signal path applied to the outer jacket surface. Electric contacts or contact surfaces applied from the outside can be used to connect sensors, (electronic) components, (read) antennas, etc. applied from the outside. They may also be provided to connect components integrated in the handpiece or to supply power via the handpiece.

[0056] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the distance sleeve and / or the instrument extension shaft consists of a plurality (at least two, preferably three or more) of distance sleeves arranged such that one sleeve fits inside another sleeve. In other words, the plurality of distance sleeves / shafts are preferably arranged in a plurality of layers. This makes it possible to integrate even more functions into the distance sleeve / shaft and maximizes the use of the installation space.

[0057] Preferably, in a medical instrument, the rolling / ball bearing and the distance sleeve are arranged axially adjacent to each other, such that at least one signal line or signal path of the rolling bearing is connected / coupled via a plug-in connection to at least one signal line or signal path of the distance sleeve, such that the medical instrument is configured for the transfer or transmission of signals (in multiple directions) between the ball / rolling bearing and the distance sleeve.

[0058] Thus, in a medical instrument / drilling / milling handpiece, electrical signals can be transferred and transmitted from the distal region to the proximal region of the medical instrument and vice versa, i.e., axially of the medical instrument, via the ball / rolling bearing or its outer ring and the distance sleeve, or via a plurality of ball / rolling bearings and a plurality of distance sleeves.

[0059] By providing a ball / rolling bearing with an integrated signal line and a distance sleeve with an integrated signal line, and connecting the signal line of the rolling bearing to the signal line of the distance sleeve via a plug-in connection, electrical signals can be transmitted through and between these components.

[0060] The rolling bearing preferably enables signal transmission in the axial direction of the medical instrument or the rolling bearing, from the distal (away from the user) to the proximal (towards the user) and vice versa.

[0061] The distance sleeve and / or the instrument extension shaft preferably enable signal transmission from distal to proximal and vice versa, i.e., axially of the medical instrument or the distance sleeve, and further from inner to outer and vice versa, i.e., radially of the medical instrument or the distance sleeve.

[0062] Overall, multi-directional signal transfer / transmission is provided to the medical instrument / handpiece (milled handpiece), which is enabled by a rolling bearing with integrated signal lines / paths and the distance sleeve.

[0063] The new / extended functions are realized in the medical instruments according to the present disclosure without increasing the outer diameter or outer dimensions of the instrument extension shaft of the surgical instrument / handpiece. Thus, it is possible to provide miniaturized signal transmission, easy assembly, the possibility of expanding / newly arranging signal generators, antennas or sensors, realizing complex circuits in a very small installation space, and proper integration into existing components.

[0064] In other words, the present invention relates to one or more of the following advantages / characteristics. Autonomous power supply by the handpiece itself, Power supply separated from the control device or related control components in the system, Integration into the existing structure of the current drilling / milling handpiece, Easy assembly, Easier connection, When used as a bus system, there is no complex connection of multiple signal generators, and There is no need for an additional channel for insulating strands, which would allow the outer diameter of the shaft to be increased.

[0065] Stated another way, the present invention relates to the use of a ball bearing having the above-described structure as a generator for generating / collecting energy for autonomously operating electronic components, such as sensors within the device, and thus decoupling them from a control device or associated control components within the system, preferably without a complex energy supply passing through the entire device.

[0066] In addition, the distance sleeve (and / or the tool extension shaft) can accommodate electrical wires in order to house electronic components. In this variant, the distance sleeve can further serve as a support. It can act as a coil for generating / collecting energy. For this purpose, the ball bearing may be configured with a cage. The ball cage can also have a very long structure. For example, N-pole / S-pole permanent magnets are applied to the central region of the ball cage in combination with a coil within the distance sleeve. This can be configured in a single layer or multiple layers over its entire length and partially. The coil is configured, for example, in a meandering shape. However, it is also possible to use a helical coil. Furthermore, it is conceivable to configure the coil in multiple layers so as to input higher energy into the coil.

[0067] By inserting a tool into the tool extension shaft and starting the motor, the (rotational) movement of the entire internal assembly, for example, the components (ball cage) described here, can be initiated. Thereby, electrical energy is generated via the coil and can be used for an electronic circuit. Depending on the length of the tool extension shaft, this assembly may also be inserted into the tool extension shaft several times, and thus multiple coils may be used for generation / collection. Any rotary motor including a manual drive may be suitable for generation / collection.

[0068] One or more embodiments may include an implementation as a self-assembly. Thus, for example, an attachment that can be detached from an actual drive device can be provided. If the same or a similar structure is selected, these attachments can also be supplied with energy autonomously and thus can operate electronic components. This is a further step towards the digitalization of products. This idea can be extended to any non-powered or unpowered attachment that includes rotational movement.

[0069] In other words, in one variant, the permanent magnet may be provided on the tool or on a drive shaft fixedly installed behind it. This means that the ball cage can be omitted as a carrier for the permanent magnet. Instead, the tool can hold the permanent magnet. Another advantage of this solution is that a higher rotational speed can be achieved with the tool itself compared to the ball cage, and thus the energy input is also higher. To avoid having to apply the permanent magnet to the tool, magnetization of the tool can also be effective. This can be advantageous for low-energy applications.

[0070] In other words, in one variant, instead of a common ball cage, a common inner ring may be configured, and this inner ring is provided with permanent magnets for collection. This also has the advantage of being faster and the further advantage that not all tools need to be equipped with permanent magnets. Furthermore, in this variant, much larger permanent magnets can be applied to generate / collect even more energy.

[0071] Accordingly, the present invention can have at least one of the following characteristics: integration of an assembly for collecting energy in a product, autonomous power supply for electronic components, integration of sensors and power supplies, digitalization of the device, and coupling of generation / collection with energy modules and data memory modules, and communication modules such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy (BLE), Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Accordingly, there are no limitations to its usefulness, which is ideal for true wireless applications (sensors in the distal regions of handsets and attachments).

[0072] The following advantages can be achieved at least in part. It is possible to avoid a complex structure with power supply through the instrument, autonomous power supply for electronic components, enable integration of sensors and power supply for sensors, independent power supply for attachments that operate without electrical connection, digitalization capabilities of products and devices, The electronic components are autonomously powered by a control device or related control components within the system and can therefore operate wirelessly.

[0073] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the description presented herein can be implemented using hardware circuits, software means, or combinations thereof. The software means can be related to a programmed microprocessor or general-purpose computer, ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and / or DSP (Digital Signal Processor).

[0074] For example, the medical device may be implemented in part as a computer, a logic circuit, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a vector processor having, for example, a microprocessor, a microcontroller (μC), or a core or central processing unit (CPU), a floating point unit (FPU), a numerical processing unit (NPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a coprocessor (an additional microprocessor for supporting the main processor (CPU)), a general-purpose computing part of a graphics processing unit (GPGPU), a parallel computer (especially for the simultaneous execution of computing operations on several main processors and / or graphics processors), or a DSP.

[0075] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0076]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0077] The drawings are of a merely schematic nature and are intended solely for the purpose of understanding the present invention. The same reference numerals are assigned to the same elements. The features of the individual embodiments can be replaced.

[0078] In addition, spatial relative terms such as "positioned below", "below", "lower", "positioned above", "higher", "on the left side", "left", "on the right side", "right", etc. may be used herein merely to describe the relationship of an element or structure to one or more other elements or structures shown in the drawings. The spatial relative terms are intended to include other orientations of the structural elements during use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. The structural elements may be in different orientations (rotated 90 degrees or in different orientations), and the spatial relative terms used herein may be interpreted accordingly as well.

[0079] A medical instrument, an instrument extension shaft, a distance sleeve, and a ball bearing are described herein with reference to several preferred configuration examples, together with the components / ball cages connecting them.

[0080] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a medical instrument 1 having a hand / grip portion 2 and an instrument extension shaft (or simply instrument shaft) 3 with a distal end. The instrument extension shaft 3 has a receptacle 4 for a tool 17 (drilling / milling tool) at its distal end, which is coupled, via a drive shaft / rod not further shown within the instrument extension shaft 3 and further via a drive unit (motor) not further shown within the handpiece 2, to the drive unit such that torque is transmitted from the drive unit to the tool 17. This structure is part of the applicant's general prior art and thus does not require further explanation here.

[0081] Furthermore, the handpiece 2 has a proximal terminal for a power source, for example a power connection 5, via which energy can be supplied to a drive unit (motor) within the handpiece 2. It should be noted at this point that the proximal terminal shown may also be an interface for a battery.

[0082] As can also be seen from Figure 1, between the handpiece 2 and the instrument extension shaft 3 there is a manually operable coupling 2a for mechanically and optionally electrically connecting the instrument extension shaft 3 to the handpiece 2. However, it is also possible to assume that the instrument extension shaft 3 is a fixed part of the handpiece 2 and thus cannot be disassembled.

[0083] Figure 2 shows a schematic, longitudinal, partially open view of the instrument extension shaft 3.

[0084] In this exemplary configuration, the instrument extension shaft 3 has a radially outer jacket 3a of the extension shaft 3, at the distal end of which the tool receptacle 4 is configured or fixed. Preferably, an inner insulating sheath 3b of the extension shaft 3 (electrical) is inserted inside the outer jacket 3a of the extension shaft 3. However, it is also possible to insert inner components into the instrument extension shaft 3 without the inner insulating sheath 3b of the extension shaft 3.

[0085] A drive shaft (not shown) and a tool 17 connected to the shaft are rotatably attached to the instrument extension shaft 3, or a rotational force (torque) is transmitted from the motor of the medical instrument 1 to the tool 17 via the shaft. A plurality of pairs of ball bearings 6 are arranged along the instrument extension shaft 3 and are axially spaced apart from each other.

[0086] Each pair of ball bearings 6, preferably at least the pair of ball bearings 6 arranged distally, is selected and has two individual ball bearings 6a, 6b axially spaced apart from each other and a distance sleeve 6c located axially between the two selected individual ball bearings 6a, 6b. Each selected pair of ball bearings 6 according to the above-defined concept is thereby inserted into the instrument extension shaft 3, preferably into the inner insulating sheath 3b of the extension shaft, in a non-axially movable manner.

[0087] FIG. 3 shows a schematic view of such individual ball bearings 6a, 6b. Each individual ball bearing 6a, 6b of the same pair of ball bearings 6 preferably has balls 7 as rolling elements, although other rolling element shapes are of course possible. The individual ball bearings (hereinafter simply referred to as ball bearings) 6a, 6b further have an inner ring 8 and an outer ring 9, between which the balls 7 are supported. The balls 7 are held circumferentially spaced apart by a ball cage 10.

[0088] FIG. 4 schematically shows the ball cages 10 of each ball bearing 6a, 6b of a pair of ball bearings 6.

[0089] Accordingly, each ball cage 10 forms axially extending protrusions / teeth spaced apart circumferentially, between which pocket-shaped ball seats are formed into which the balls 7 are individually inserted. In this preferred exemplary configuration, the ball cages 10 of the pair of ball bearings 6a, 6b are fixedly connected to each other via a cylindrical portion 11 to form a single common cage component or pipe 18.

[0090] Therefore, the pipe 18 shown in FIG. 4 has at least a cylindrical portion 11, and on both axially opposite sides thereof, ball cages 10 of two axially spaced ball bearings 6a, 6b of a pair of ball bearings 6 are fixedly arranged. The cylindrical portion 11 further has at least one, preferably a plurality of, circumferentially spaced permanent magnets 12 on the outer periphery near one ball cage 10. The ball cage 10 may be integrally formed with the cylindrical portion 11 or fixedly connected as a separate part. Preferably, each strip-shaped permanent magnet 12 also extends axially from only one ball cage 10 to approximately the axial center of the cylindrical portion 11.

[0091] At this point, it should be noted that, for the sake of deepening understanding, the axial dimension of the pipe 18 according to at least FIG. 4 may be unrealistic and serves only for the purpose of explanation. Rather, in particular, the cylindrical portion 11 between two arbitrarily selected ball bearings 6a, 6b coupled to form a pair may actually be significantly shorter or longer, as shown in FIG. 2 by distance sleeves 6c of various lengths. In particular, according to the present disclosure, it should be noted in this context that the ball bearing 6b arranged on the distal instrument extension shaft 3 of FIG. 2 may be coupled to the proximally adjacent ball bearing 6a to form a pair of ball bearings 6. That is, according to the present disclosure, a pair of ball bearings 6 is generally understood to be a pair of axially adjacent ball bearings, and as a result, as described above, the pipe 18, in particular the cylindrical portion 11, may vary in its axial extension. Therefore, the longer distance sleeve 6c of FIG. 2 can also be used for the coil 13.

[0092] FIG. 5 shows a schematic view of a pipe 18 having a permanent magnet 12 disposed between ball bearings 6a, 6b of a pair of ball bearings 6. Thus, the axial projections / teeth of each ball cage 10 engage between the balls 7 of the two ball bearings 6a, 6b, such that the ball cage 10, together with the balls 7, is rotatable along the circumference between the inner ring 8 and the outer ring 9. Further, the pipe 18 may be arranged between the ball bearings 6a, 6b of the pair of ball bearings 6 so as not to be axially displaceable. Finally, it can be seen from FIG. 5 that preferably two permanent magnets 12 are provided, in which case these permanent magnets are arranged diametrically opposite to each other on the cylindrical portion 11 of the pipe 18. The permanent magnet 12 is inserted into a recess 11a on the outer jacket surface of the cylindrical portion 11 (as shown in FIG. 8), and the permanent magnet 12 projects beyond the jacket surface, thus forming a stepped portion 12a projecting radially around the permanent magnet 12. However, the permanent magnet 12 may be flush with the outer jacket surface of the cylindrical portion 11.

[0093] FIGS. 6 and 7 show schematic views of a part of a distance sleeve 6c having an integral coil 13.

[0094] In this preferred exemplary configuration, the distance sleeve 6c (snapped longitudinally) is configured separately from the instrument extension shaft 3 and keeps the two ball bearings 6a, 6b axially spaced from each other. For this purpose, the distance sleeve 6c preferably abuts against opposite side surfaces of the outer rings 9 of the two ball bearings 6a, 6b of the same pair of ball bearings 6, and thus surrounds the cylindrical portion 11 of the pipe 18 radially outwardly (see in particular FIG. 9).

[0095] The distance sleeve 6c is provided with a radially hollow folded / bulged portion 6d starting from (only) one side surface of the sleeve and extending over the axial length to approximately the axial center on the inner jacket surface, and a coil 13 configured in a meandering or spiral shape is inserted therein / thereinto. Thus, the coil 13 can constitute at least half of the inner circumference of the distance sleeve 6c. Also, the coil may be arranged along the inner diameter circumference of the instrument extension shaft 3. The radially bulged portion 6d is dimensioned such that (as particularly shown in FIG. 9) a permanent magnet 12 protruding radially can be accommodated therein without contact.

[0096] Furthermore, a plurality of signal lines 14 and inner contacts 15 connected thereto are arranged / configured on the radially inner jacket surface of the distance sleeve 6c in an axial section axially adjacent to the coil 13. In particular, the signal lines 14 are arranged over a wide range in the longitudinal direction of the distance sleeve 6c so as to be (electrically) connected to the coil 13 at the axial position. Thereby, the inner contacts 15 are preferably in (electrical) contact with the signal lines 14 extending axially outside the radius of the distance sleeve 6c via a radially through hole / through line and via radially outer contacts 16 (see also FIG. 12 in particular).

[0097] FIG. 8 shows a schematic partial view of a pipe 18 arranged within a distance sleeve 6c provided with a coil 13. Here, a cylindrical portion 11 is shown, which has the aforementioned recess 11a for accommodating the permanent magnet 12, each of which has radially oriented N and S poles, respectively shown by different layers. The N and S poles of each permanent magnet 12 are radially opposed in the cylindrical portion 11, and the corresponding N or S poles face radially outward. The arrangement of the N and S poles for the two permanent magnets 12 is as follows.

[0098] In FIG. 8, if the N pole of the upper permanent magnet is on the radially outer side, the S pole of the lower permanent magnet is on the radially outer side. Therefore, on the radially inner side of the distance sleeve 6c, the S pole and the N pole face each other. Therefore, magnetic field lines can be formed according to the principle of a current generator.

[0099] Also, on the outer periphery of the distance sleeve 6c, the signal line 14, which is also arranged on the inner side in the longitudinal direction of the distance sleeve 6c in FIG. 7, further extends axially as shown in FIG. 8.

[0100] FIG. 9 shows a schematic open view of the pipe 18 as a component (rotor of the generator) arranged in the distance sleeve 6c having the coil 13. Therefore, the selected pair of ball bearings 6 are combined with the pipe 18 to form a kind of unit / cartridge that is inserted in a closed state into the instrument extension shaft 3. At this point, it should be noted that the instrument extension shaft is only a preferred installation location for the pair of ball bearings, and it may be arranged at other locations, for example, in the housing of the handpiece 2.

[0101] Furthermore, instrument extension shafts 3 of various lengths can be provided. FIG. 10 shows a schematic view of the medical handpiece 2 having instrument extension shafts 3 of various lengths. Various numbers of spacers 6c spaced longitudinally can also be arranged at various lengths within the various extension shafts, and these respectively surround the components (ball cages) in the radial direction.

[0102] FIG. 11 shows a schematic view of the ball bearings 6a / 6b of the selected pair of ball bearings 6 having the signal line 14, and the signal line 14 is inserted into the outer ring 9 on the radially outer side. As is clear from FIG. 11, the signal line 14 forms contact pins that protrude axially on at least one side surface of the radially outer ring 9, preferably on both side surfaces, and the contact pins engage with corresponding axial bushings in the distance sleeve 6c during the assembly of the selected pair of ball bearings 6, thus establishing an electrical contact closure between the signal line 14 in the distance sleeve 6c and the signal line 14 in the radially outer ring 9.

[0103] FIG. 12, also as described above, shows a schematic view of the instrument extension shaft 3 having the radially outer signal line 14. Thus, the signal line 14 extends from the pair of distal ball bearings 6 into the handpiece 2, and the signal lines within the radially outer rings of all the ball bearings and the signal lines of all the distance sleeves are electrically coupled according to the principle of the bushing pins. Further, FIG. 12 shows the aforementioned contacts 16 on the selected distance sleeve 6c, which are connected to the radially inner contacts 15 through radial contact. In this way, the signal line radially inner to the selected distance sleeve 6c is electrically connected to its radially outer signal line.

[0104] Further, FIG. 13 shows schematic views of various tools or attachments 17 as adapters. On the left side, in order from top to bottom, a keyless sleeve chuck drill adapter, a sleeve chuck drill adapter (0.5 - 7.4 mm), an AO small drill adapter, a small sleeve chuck drill adapter, a crib wire adapter, a Hudson / Zimmer milling adapter are shown. On the right side, in order from top to bottom, a large AO medullary drill adapter, a small AO drill adapter, a hexagonal drill adapter, a Hudson / Zimmer drill adapter, a sleeve milling adapter (0.5 - 7.4 mm), a large AO milling adapter, and a Harris milling adapter are shown.

[0105] FIG. 14 shows a schematic view of an instrument extension shaft 3 according to a second preferred configuration example of the present disclosure for a medical instrument, particularly having a component in the form of a tool 17 itself, i.e., in this case, the pipe 18 according to the first preferred configuration example is replaced by the shaft of the tool 17. For this purpose, the tool 17 has a distal effector portion 20, which is connected to the proximal coupling portion 19 of the tool 17 via a cylindrical shaft portion 11 that can be inserted into the extension shaft 3, and via this, the tool 17 can be connected in an axially and rotationally fixed manner to a drive shaft 21 (not shown in more detail) within the instrument extension shaft 3. The cylindrical portion 11 of the tool 17 has a permanent magnet 12, which is provided to induce an electric current in the coil 13 of at least one distance sleeve 6c, half of which is shown in FIG. 14, which is provided in the shaft portion immediately proximal to the tool receptacle 4 and radially surrounds the tool shaft. In this case, the cylindrical portion 11 of the tool 17 can be arranged between the ball bearings 6a, 6b of the distal pair of ball bearings 6 such that the above-described electrical induction effect between the tool 17 and the distance sleeve 6c is utilized to collect electrical energy. The cylindrical portion 11 of the tool 17 is seamlessly connected to the coupling portion 19 on one axial side and the effector portion 20 on the other axial side. The permanent magnet 12 inserted into the cylindrical portion 11 of the tool 17 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise to generate a variable magnetic field during the rotation of the tool 17 that generates an electric current in the coil 13. This is a simple way to generate / collect energy. This principle applies to each component described in this specification.

[0106] FIG. 15 shows a schematic view of the inner ring 8 of a pair of ball bearings 6 according to a further preferred configuration example of the present disclosure as a component having a permanent magnet 12. Here, the inner ring 8 can be firmly connected to the drive shaft within the instrument extension shaft 3 or the medical instrument 1, or to the tool 17 itself. Thereby, the torque transmitted via the drive shaft 21 can be completely absorbed by the inner ring 8. Thereby, energy can be effectively generated / collected. The following items are elements described in the claims at the time of international filing. (Item 1) A medical instrument (1) that is operated by a motor or manually or is operable, A plurality of bearings for supporting a shank or shaft (21) for applying torque to a tool (17), wherein at least two selected or selectable bearings (6a, 6b) among them form a pair of bearings (6), the plurality of bearings; A distance sleeve (6c) that axially separates the bearings (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6), and A component (11) is at least partially present radially inside the distance sleeve (6c), The component (11) is preferably tubular and is rotatably coupled or couplable to at least one bearing (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6) so as to rotate with at least one rotating part of the two bearings (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6) or so as to form a rotating part of at least one of the two bearings (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6), At least one permanent magnet (12) is attached to the component (11) or is configured within the component (11), A coil (13) is disposed on or within the distance sleeve (6c), the medical instrument (1). (Item 2) The bearings (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6) are rolling bearings, preferably ball bearings, The component (11) is a common part, preferably a cylindrical part (11), of the ball cages (10) of the two bearings (6a, 6b) that rotatably couples the ball cages (10) of the two bearings (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6), the medical instrument (1) according to Item 1. (Item 3) The component (11) is a shaft part of the tool (17), the medical instrument (1) according to Item 1. (Item 4) The bearings (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6) are rolling bearings, preferably ball bearings, The component (11) is a common part, preferably a cylindrical part (11), of the inner rings (8) of the two bearings (6a, 6b) that rotatably couples the inner rings (8) of the two bearings (6a, 6b) of the pair of bearings (6), the medical instrument (1) according to Item 1. (Item 5) The medical instrument according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the medical instrument is a hand-held instrument having a handpiece or a grip portion (2). (Item 6) The handpiece (2) houses a motor that is rotatably coupled or rotatably couplable to the shaft (21) for torque transmission to the tool (17), The medical instrument according to item 5, wherein the two bearings (6a, 6b) and the distance sleeve (6c) are arranged within an instrument extension shaft (3) that is coupled or couplable to the handpiece or the grip portion. (Item 7) A medical instrument (1) according to item 6, characterized by a coupling part (2a) that is preferably manually operable, through which the extension shaft (3) can be coupled to the handpiece (2), and the shaft (21) attached to the extension shaft (3) can be coupled to the motor arranged within the handpiece (2). (Item 8) The medical instrument (1) according to item 7, wherein the instrument extension shaft (3) is mechanically and / or electrically connectable to the handpiece (2) via the coupling part (2a). (Item 9) The handpiece (2) has a distal end where the coupling part (2a) is arranged, A medical instrument (1) according to any one of items 7 to 8, wherein a tool receptacle (4) is arranged at the distal end of the instrument extension shaft (3). (Item 10) The medical instrument (1) according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the pair of bearings (6), including at least the distance sleeve (6c) and preferably the component (11), forms a separate unit for attachment to the medical instrument (1). (Item 11) The medical instrument (1) according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the distance sleeve (6c) is an integral part of the medical instrument (1). (Item 12) The medical instrument (1) according to any one of items 1 to 11, wherein the coil (13) is in a meandering shape or a spiral shape, and is single-layer or multi-layer when viewed in the radial direction of the distance sleeve (6c). (Item 13) The medical instrument (1) according to any one of items 1 to 12, wherein the component (11) has a plurality of recesses (11a) on its outer jacket surface, and a corresponding number of the permanent magnets (12) are inserted into the recesses. (Item 14) At least the distance sleeve (6c) has a radially inner signal line (14) electrically connected to the coil (13) so as to transmit an electrical signal proximally along the medical instrument (1) from the coil (13), and a radially outer signal line (14) coupled to the signal line in the bearings (6a, 6b) through an electrical coupling, the medical instrument (1) according to any one of items 1 to 13.

Explanation of Symbols

[0107] 1: Medical device 2: Handpiece 2a: Manually operable coupling part 3: Instrument extension shaft 3a: Outer jacket of the extension shaft 3b: Inner insulating sheath of the extension shaft 4: Tool receptacle 5: Power connection part 6: Selected pair of ball bearings 6a, 6b: Ball bearings of the selected pair of ball bearings 6c: Selected distance sleeve 6d: Inner radial setback part (inner radial widening part) 7: Balls of the ball bearing 8: Inner ring of the ball bearing 9: Outer ring of the ball bearing 10: Ball cage of the part 11: Cylindrical part of the part 11a: Recess 12: Permanent magnet 12a: Step part 13: Coil 14: Signal line 15: Inner contact 16: Outer contact 17: Tool 18: Part as a pipe 19: Coupling part 20: Effector part 21: Drive shaft

Claims

1. A medical device that is operated by a motor or manually or is operable, A plurality of bearings for supporting a shank or shaft for applying torque to a tool, wherein at least two selected or selectable bearings of the plurality of bearings form a pair of bearings; A distance sleeve for axially spacing the bearings of the pair of bearings; A component is at least partially present radially inside the distance sleeve, The component is tubular and is rotatably coupled or couplable to at least one bearing of the pair of bearings so as to rotate with at least one rotating part of the two bearings of the pair of bearings or to form at least one rotating part of the pair of bearings, At least one permanent magnet is attached to the component or configured within the component, A coil is disposed on or within the distance sleeve. A medical device.

2. The bearings of the pair of bearings are rolling bearings, The component is a common part of the ball cages of the two bearings that rotatably couples the ball cages of the two bearings of the pair of bearings. The medical device according to claim 1.

3. The rolling bearing is a ball bearing. The medical device according to claim 2.

4. The component is a shaft portion of the tool. The medical device according to claim 1.

5. The bearings of the pair of bearings are rolling bearings, The component is a common part of the inner rings of the two bearings that rotatably couples the inner rings of the two bearings of the pair of bearings. The medical device according to claim 1.

6. The component forms a cylindrical portion. The medical device according to claim 5.

7. The medical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the medical instrument is a hand-held instrument having a handpiece or a grip portion.

8. The handpiece houses a motor rotatably coupled or rotatably couplable to the shaft for torque transmission to the tool, The medical instrument according to claim 7, wherein the two bearings and the distance sleeve are disposed within an instrument extension shaft coupled or couplable to the handpiece or the grip portion.

9. A manually operable coupling through which the instrument extension shaft is couplable to the handpiece and the shaft attached to the instrument extension shaft is couplable to the motor disposed within the handpiece, characterized by a coupling. The medical instrument according to claim 8.

10. The medical instrument according to claim 9, wherein the instrument extension shaft is mechanically and / or electrically connectable to the handpiece via the coupling.

11. The handpiece has a distal end where the coupling is disposed, The medical instrument according to claim 9 or 10, wherein a tool receptacle is disposed at a distal end of the instrument extension shaft.

12. The medical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the pair of bearings including at least the distance sleeve and the component form a separate unit for attachment to the medical instrument (1).

13. The medical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the distance sleeve is an integral part of the medical instrument.

14. The medical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the coil is in a serpentine or helical shape and is single-layer or multi-layer when viewed in the radial direction of the distance sleeve.

15. The medical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the component has a plurality of recesses on the surface of its outer jacket, and the corresponding number of the permanent magnets are inserted into the recesses.

16. The medical instrument according to claim 1, wherein at least the distance sleeve has a radially inner signal line electrically connected to the coil so as to transmit an electrical signal proximally along the medical instrument from the coil, and a radially outer signal line coupled to the signal line in the bearing via an electrical coupling.

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