Electrosurgical generator with modular output sockets for electrosurgical equipment

Abstract

To provide an improved electrosurgical generator which is easy to assemble and easy to wire for different output sockets.SOLUTION: An electrosurgical generator includes: a housing; an internal circuitry to generate a high-frequency voltage and to output the generated high-frequency voltage to an electrosurgical instrument; and at least one output socket 3 for connection of a plug of the electrosurgical instrument. The output socket 3 is configured as a self-supporting unit including: a casing configured for mounting at a front plate 11 of the housing; a plug socket mounted at a frontal face of the casing for plugging of the electrosurgical instrument; a conductor board inserted into the casing and configured to provide internal connections of the output socket; and a connector provided at the conductor board for a connection to the internal circuitry.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3b

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrosurgical generator having internal circuitry configured to generate a high frequency voltage and output the generated high frequency voltage to an electrosurgical instrument, and the electrosurgical generator has at least one output socket for connecting a plug of the electrosurgical instrument. [Background technology]

[0002] Electrosurgical generators are widely used in surgical procedures. Electrosurgical generators are used for a variety of tasks in various surgical disciplines, and various types and styles of instruments are connected to the electrosurgical generator. These instruments are specifically designed and configured for the surgical task to be accomplished. Therefore, various types of electrosurgical instruments are provided, requiring different output sockets depending on the desired functionality. For example, some monopolar instruments require a monopolar output socket, while some bipolar instruments require a bipolar output socket. Additionally, there are universal output sockets specifically configured to accept both monopolar and bipolar electrosurgical instruments. Traditionally, these output sockets are individually attached to the front plate of the electrosurgical generator and individually wired using single-conductor technology. This requires a fairly tedious assembly, and the traditional single-conductor wiring makes wiring errors prone. This is even more important for modern electrosurgical generators, which often have multiple (e.g., three or more) output sockets.

[0003] It is known to provide electrosurgical generators (e.g., the Olympus ESG-410 generator) with multiple output sockets that have visually distinct shapes depending on the type of output socket. In this case, a visual cue is provided to the user as to the type of output socket. From the user's perspective, this is beneficial in that it reduces the likelihood of errors when connecting various devices. However, from the manufacturer's perspective, this does nothing to reduce the tedious, complex, and error-prone assembly process. This drawback is exacerbated as the number of different output sockets increases.

[0004] Electrosurgical generators are known that have a modular unit for the output socket that can be replaced in the field (European Patent Application Publication No. 3758157). The modular unit for the output socket can be replaced with a service module that has a mechanical cover for the high frequency power supply (HF power supply) at the rear and also allows access to the internal service interface (USB port), thereby increasing operational safety for the service.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for an improved electrosurgical generator that is easy to assemble and wire to different output sockets. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 3758157 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The solution according to the invention is found in the features of the independent claims. Advantageous developments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0008] An electrosurgical generator comprising a housing, internal circuitry configured to generate a high frequency voltage and output the generated high frequency voltage to an electrosurgical instrument, and at least one output socket for connecting a plug of the electrosurgical instrument, wherein the at least one output socket is configured as a self-contained unit having a casing configured to be attachable to a front plate of the housing and a plug socket attached to a front portion of the casing for plugging in the electrosurgical instrument, and according to the present invention, the at least one output socket further comprises a conductor plate configured to be inserted into the casing to provide an internal connection for the output socket, and a connector provided on the conductor plate for connecting to the internal circuitry of the electrosurgical generator.

[0009] First, some terms are explained as follows:

[0010] In the field of electrosurgical generators, "high frequency" typically refers to frequencies in the range of 100 kHz to 4000 kHz.

[0011] "High voltage" generally refers to voltages up to 10 kV, preferably up to 4000.

[0012] The essence of the present invention is to provide a freestanding output socket, particularly one that features a unique casing that holds the actual plug socket and conductor plate. The output socket is modularly interchangeable. Therefore, the output socket can be easily replaced with another output socket having a different function. This allows the electrosurgical generator to be easily adapted for different functions by inserting a different output socket into the front of the housing. This allows for increased manufacturing efficiency for a variety of electrosurgical generators with a variety of different output sockets. Having the connector as part of the output socket ensures that the required connection is always made without the risk of confusion or incomplete connections inherent in the multiple single-conductor connections of the prior art. Thus, the present invention provides a freestanding output socket with predetermined mechanical and electrical / functional boundaries. This improves interchangeability between output sockets with different functions and requires less adaptation of the front plate of the electrosurgical generator to which the output socket is attached, while maintaining ease of manufacture. Furthermore, the risk of an incomplete or incorrect electrical connection from the output socket to the internal circuitry of the electrosurgical generator is minimized.

[0013] The above advantages can be further enhanced by selecting the at least one output socket from a group of differently configured output sockets, each of which has a casing with the same outer periphery and contour. Thus, the different output sockets have casings characterized by the same outer periphery, allowing the casings of the various output sockets to be placed within identically shaped cutouts in the front plate of the electrosurgical generator. This uniformity in the casings eliminates the need for mechanical adjustments to fit the different output sockets. It should be noted that the term "contour" refers to the outer periphery contour, particularly the contour along the periphery defined by the bottom, top, and sides of the casing used to place the casing within the cutout.

[0014] Advantageously, the connector is mounted directly on the conductor plate, although this is not essential and indirect mounting, for example via a stranded cable, may also be sufficient.

[0015] Preferably, the conductor plate is selected from a plurality of conductor plates having different functions, and the plurality of conductor plates are arranged mechanically interchangeable within the casing, so that different conductor plates having different functions can be inserted into the casing without any mechanical modifications, thereby enabling modular replacement of the conductor plates.

[0016] Advantageously, the conductor plate is provided with control electronics, in particular (but not exclusively) for a light-emitting device and / or a contactless interface. The control electronics may in particular be a microprocessor. Thanks to the microprocessor, the output socket acquires its own processing capabilities. That is, the output socket has its own "intelligence" rather than being completely dependent on the main control unit. In other words, the output socket can act like a smart device. For example, the output socket independently checks and verifies whether it can be used properly with a specific electrosurgical generator or whether it blocks itself for surgical safety if inserted improperly. Similarly, the output socket can also perform corresponding checks on the actual electrosurgical device plugged into it. Furthermore, the output socket can provide a signal (e.g., by means of an illumination signal) to the main control unit, the electrosurgical device, or the user, as will be described in more detail below.

[0017] Preferably, the control electronics is communicatively connected to a control unit of the internal circuitry, and preferably the control electronics is configured to perform instrument-related data processing as a substation of the control unit and / or to control the electrosurgical instrument according to a predetermined process comprising a sequence of operating steps for the electrosurgical instrument. By such a process, activation times and characteristics of the electrosurgical instrument are implemented locally at the output socket and / or communicated from the internal circuitry to the output socket and its control electronics. Such active interaction with the master control of one electrosurgical generator and / or with the other electrosurgical instrument is particularly useful for complex surgical procedures involving the electrosurgical generator and its attached electrosurgical instrument. Furthermore, this is particularly useful for complex operating modes requiring close interaction between the electrosurgical generator and the electrosurgical instrument, thereby improving surgical efficacy and patient safety.

[0018] Preferably, the conductor plate is further provided with a signaling device, preferably a light-emitting device such as an LED, which interacts with the control electronics to inform the user of status information about the internal circuitry, the electrosurgical instrument, and / or the predetermined process. This, particularly in combination with actively driven lighting in the output socket, can establish a useful communication link to the user, helping the user to perform the appropriate steps of the surgical procedure at the appropriate times, e.g., as defined by the process. This is another valuable contribution to surgical efficacy and patient safety.

[0019] Advantageously, the conductor plate is provided with a module identification unit configured to communicate with the internal circuitry, the module identification unit being configured to identify the type and / or function of the output socket. This allows the actual conductor plate inserted into the output socket to identify itself and thus provide the internal circuitry of the electrosurgical generator, particularly its control unit, with information about the output sockets actually attached to the electrosurgical generator and the respective functions of these output sockets. This allows for an integrity check of the electrosurgical generator and its output sockets, improving safety against mismatched output sockets. This ensures that the electrosurgical generator will only interact with output sockets and electrosurgical equipment for which it was designed, configured, and officially approved.

[0020] Preferably, the conductor plate is provided with a contactless interface configured to communicate with an electrosurgical device, particularly a plug for the electrosurgical device. This allows communication with the electrosurgical device to be realized by the conductor plate. The interface can be configured to operate in various ways. For example, the interface may include a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of a plug plugged into the output socket, thereby confirming whether the electrosurgical device is actually plugged into the output socket. That is, the interface may function as a kind of presence detector and report the plugged-in status to the internal circuitry of the electrosurgical generator via the connector. Furthermore, the contactless interface may be configured as a data interface to the plug, thereby enabling communication with the electrosurgical device. This can be achieved, for example, by RFID (radio frequency identification). This allows data stored in the electrosurgical device, such as specific modes or parameters used for the particular electrosurgical device, to be read from the electrosurgical generator and / or data, such as the number of usage times and usage cycles, to be written to the electrosurgical device.

[0021] Preferably, an auxiliary data interface is provided on the conductor plate and configured to communicate with a signaling device on the electrosurgical instrument, particularly a handswitch and / or a data source of the electrosurgical instrument. The auxiliary data interface may be contactless or contact-type, allowing signals generated by a particular electrosurgical instrument, such as activation of a handswitch, to be transmitted to the conductor plate. This also provides another option for reading data sources on the electrosurgical instrument.

[0022] Advantageously, the conductor plate may be provided with driver electronics for the light-emitting device and / or a contactless interface configured to communicate with the electrosurgical instrument, particularly with a plug for the electrosurgical instrument, and preferably including at least one of a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of the plug plugged into the output socket and a data interface to the plug. This allows the output socket with the conductor plate to be independent of the internal circuitry of the electrosurgical generator with respect to the drive or control functions of the conductor plate. This further strengthens the self-contained philosophy of the output socket according to the present invention. Having independent drive and / or control components not only ensures that the conductor plate and output socket are independent of the electrosurgical generator, but also ensures that the correct drive / control components corresponding to each output socket are always provided on the conductor plate. This reduces the risk of mismatch between drive components and the driven functions, which may occur if the drive components are centrally located in the internal circuitry of the electrosurgical generator. This therefore improves ease of assembly and operational safety.

[0023] To achieve the aforementioned communication and interoperability of the local control electronics (microprocessor) of the output socket, said control electronics is configured to interact with at least one of a group including a module identification unit, an auxiliary data interface, a driving component for the light emitting device, and a contactless interface.

[0024] In an advantageous embodiment, the casing is provided with a light guide configured to illuminate the front of the casing, so that the casing not only provides mechanical support and protection for the output socket and its conductor plates and the plug socket, but also takes an active role in its functioning: thanks to the light guide at the front of the casing, it is possible to illuminate the actual plug socket into which the electrosurgical instrument is to be plugged, thereby facilitating its use.

[0025] Advantageously, the light guide is provided with an extension configured for a remote illumination supply, preferably for a light emitting device forming part of the internal circuitry. The term "remote" should be understood to refer to an illumination supply that is external to the output socket, i.e., an illumination supply that is not part of the output socket. Typically, the remote illumination supply is within the housing of the electrosurgical generator and preferably is part of its internal circuitry.

[0026] Preferably, the casing is provided with a receptacle for a light-emitting device, preferably an LED, and / or the conductor plate is provided with a light-emitting device, in particular an LED. This may be achieved passively, in particular by using a light guide with a remotely located light-emitting device (such as an LED mounted in a fixed position within the housing of the electrosurgical generator). Alternatively or additionally, this may be achieved actively by providing a light-emitting device, in particular an LED, in the output socket, preferably in its conductor plate. This further increases the autonomy of the output socket.

[0027] More preferably, the light emitting device is configured to feed light into a light guide, which preferably covers the light emitting device, and / or to feed light into a preferably colored translucent insert. This allows light from the light emitting device, in particular the LED, to be transmitted via the light guide. Alternatively, the light emitted from the LED can be emitted directly onto the front surface and thus into the user's field of view. The translucent element can be used to protect the light emitting device and to achieve an effective and inexpensive coloring of the emitted light.

[0028] Advantageously, the casing is provided with a peripheral frame for holding at least one light-emitting device, the peripheral frame being configured to be attachable to the front plate of the housing. The light-emitting device and the substrate on which the light-emitting device is mounted can thus also serve as a frame for suitable mounting of an output socket. This allows for a higher degree of integration to be achieved. Furthermore, this facilitates manufacturing. The light-emitting device may emit its light directly towards the user. However, preferably, the peripheral frame with at least one light-emitting device is provided with a translucent front cover, and the translucent front cover and / or the peripheral frame are provided with a seal configured to interact with the front plate. This not only provides more diffused lighting but also makes the outline of the output socket more visible to the user. The seal may block the ingress of unwanted substances and / or reduce the escape of high-frequency radiation, as will be further explained below with respect to the high-frequency seal (HF seal).

[0029] More preferably, the translucent front cover may be configured for indirect lighting by offsetting the at least one light emitting device so that it is at least partially covered by the front plate, thereby avoiding direct light into the user's eyes and providing indirect lighting with minimal effort and reducing eye strain for the surgeon.

[0030] A conductor plate, which is an integral part of the output socket, provides the necessary illumination via a light-emitting device, preferably an LED, thereby ensuring that the necessary illumination is provided where needed. Due to a defined relationship between the conductor plate and the casing, the light-emitting device is preferably positioned in a defined location in front of the entrance to the light guide. This ensures that the light-emitting device is accurately positioned when the conductor plate is inserted into the casing. Furthermore, the light-emitting device is preferably positioned in the same location on various different conductor plates. This ensures that the light-emitting device is positioned correctly in the light guide, regardless of the actual conductor plate used.

[0031] Furthermore, the light emitting device is preferably configured to emit light of different colors, so that the light provided by the light guide not only serves the purpose of illumination, but can also be used for light signaling, for example to communicate a ready state ("green light"), a caution warning ("orange light"), and / or a danger or fault condition ("red light").

[0032] Advantageously, at least one cut-out is provided on the edge of the casing, which has an opening to the front side of the casing and is configured as a receptacle for a light guide or a light-emitting device, preferably a series of such cut-outs. Such cut-outs can be manufactured efficiently, so that receptacles for passive or active lighting elements and proper positioning of the lighting elements can be achieved. The cut-outs are preferably integrated into the casing of the output socket, which keeps the outer surface of the socket casing inaccessible and avoids sealing problems that could otherwise occur.

[0033] Preferably, the cutouts are provided with a seat for an illumination board that holds at least one light emitting device, preferably at least one LED, more preferably a plurality of LEDs spaced to match the spacing of the cutouts, so that active illumination at the correct positions determined by the cutouts can be achieved with minimal effort.

[0034] In addition to or instead of LED illumination, a light guide may be positioned within the notch or within the series of notches to emit light through the notches onto the front surface. This provides passive illumination, enabling the use of a remote light source, for example, fixed within the housing of the electrosurgical generator. This eliminates the need for a dedicated lighting element at the output socket. This allows for more flexible placement of the remote light source. Preferably, the series of notches are aligned so that a single light guide can be threaded through the series of notches. This allows for easy manufacturing and proper positioning with minimal effort.

[0035] Advantageously, the front part of the casing, at least in the region of the plug socket, is formed by a planar light guide, which is preferably provided with a masking having a masking hole around the plug socket, so that the e.g. ring-shaped periphery of the plug socket can be directly illuminated, facilitating the insertion of the plug of the electrosurgical instrument, which helps the user to find the correct place to insert the plug.

[0036] Preferably, the planar light guide is oriented perpendicular to the insertion direction of the plug socket and light is provided by a light emitting device located on the edge of the planar light guide and / or by a second light guide connected to the planar light guide. Such an arrangement is easy to manufacture and assemble and also provides a compact arrangement of light emitting device and planar light guide.

[0037] Advantageously, the plug socket has a hollow interior, and a rear end of the plug socket has an opening in which a light-emitting device is arranged, configured to emit light through the hollow interior onto the front part of the casing. This allows a light-emitting device, particularly an LED, to be arranged at the open rear end of the actual plug socket, which can project light toward the user through the hole in the plug socket's interior. This provides perfect orientation assistance for guiding the plug to the desired plug socket. For this purpose, the plug socket is preferably provided with a sleeve as an internal contact of the plug of the electrosurgical instrument, and optionally a translucent element is arranged within the sleeve. The translucent element provides additional protection against the risk of direct contact of the sleeve with high voltage and also allows for coloring of the emitted light.

[0038] Advantageously, the casing is provided with a circumferential radio frequency seal (HF seal), which is preferably configured to abut the front plate in the mounted state, so that the casing is equipped with its own sealing and can be mounted in a radio frequency sealed manner to the front plate of the electrosurgical generator automatically by mounting the output socket, thereby avoiding the need for an additional seal and further improving ease of assembly and safety of operation.

[0039] In particular, for creating more complex types of electrosurgical generators, it may be beneficial to provide a second family of casings having different perimeters, which allows differentiation between multiple output sockets configured for different types of electrosurgical instruments, especially ultrasonic instruments and advanced instruments that combine bipolar radiofrequency and ultrasonic capabilities (e.g., Olympus Surgery's "Thunderbeat" instrument).

[0040] Preferably, the at least one output socket has an integrated high-frequency conductor line. This allows the distribution of high-frequency voltage, such as that generated by an inverter of an electrosurgical generator, to be realized at the output socket, eliminating the need for a separate connection from the inverter to the output socket. This further simplifies assembly and increases modularity. This can be further enhanced by arranging the high-frequency conductor line within the connector, preferably with a separator, or within a dedicated sub-connector for protecting the signal line, and terminating the high-frequency conductor line at the plug socket. This allows the high-frequency voltage conductor line to be placed on the same conductor as other power and signal lines entering and leaving the output socket. Thanks to such a separator, sufficient high-voltage insulation is achieved. The separator may be a structural element, but it may also be a spatial separation with a predetermined minimum distance (depending on the relevant high voltage in the kilovolt range). Integrating the high-voltage line and other lines into one connector further simplifies assembly and reduces the risk of incomplete or incorrect wiring.

[0041] In a particularly preferred embodiment of an electrosurgical generator deserving independent protection, the at least one output socket comprises a casing for fixing a printed circuit board in place and a front face for a plug socket, the printed circuit board configured as an angled printed circuit board assembly comprising a vertically extending conductor plate located adjacent to the front portion of the casing, a horizontally extending conductor plate located rearward of the vertically extending conductor plate and oriented to face rearward, and an interconnector providing an electrical connection between the conductor plates, the horizontally extending conductor plate being provided with the connector for connection to the internal circuitry and a plurality of conductors for transmitting electrical energy to the vertically extending conductor plate.

[0042] Therefore, the conductor plates are preferably configured as an angled assembly. The horizontally extending conductor plate utilizes the space directly below, particularly behind and around, the plug socket, making effective use of the dead space behind the plug socket, which has previously been used almost exclusively for high-frequency cables supplying the plug socket. The horizontally extending conductor plate and the vertically extending conductor plate can be connected before insertion, making assembly easier. Furthermore, the horizontally extending conductor plate includes conductors for supplying power to the vertically extending conductor plate, thereby achieving power supply to the vertically extending conductor plate without requiring an additional assembly step. This provides a beneficial combination of space saving and ease of assembly.

[0043] Furthermore, further components required for additional functions may be arranged on the horizontally extending conductor plate, which is arranged so as to extend horizontally, thereby eliminating the need for additional front surface area and thus improving space savings.

[0044] Furthermore, in addition to saving space, the angled configuration provides unobstructed access to the socket, allowing high-frequency, high-voltage wiring directly to the socket (especially the back side of the socket where the contacts are normally located), making the power connection even easier to assemble.

[0045] Furthermore, the inclined configuration allows high frequency power wired to the plug socket via the horizontally extending conductor plate to be directed away from the vertically extending conductor plate and any sensors (particularly proximity sensors) that may be located on said conductor plate. This further significantly reduces the distance traveled by high frequency high voltages, minimizing electromagnetic radiation. This minimizes unwanted interference that may adversely affect sensors located on the vertically extending board.

[0046] As a result, the preferred angled configuration combines advantages in electrical configuration, particularly minimization of high frequency radiation (HF radiation), with ease of manufacturing due to reduced space requirements and improved access.

[0047] Preferably, the vertically extending conductor plate is provided with at least one light source configured to emit light for illuminating the socket. By locating the light source on the vertically extending conductor plate, light transmission losses in illuminating the output socket and its plug socket are minimized, and the power required to provide the light can be transmitted by the conductors of the horizontally extending conductor plate via the interconnector without requiring additional assembly operations.

[0048] Advantageously, the light guide comprises a light entrance, in front of which a light source mounted on a vertically extending conductor plate is arranged, the position of the light entrance ensuring that in the assembled state, when the vertically extending conductor plate is put into position, the light source is automatically positioned correctly relative to the light entrance, so that the light emitted by the light source can enter the light guide directly and efficiently.

[0049] Advantageously, the vertically extending conductor plate is further provided with a sensor configured to detect whether a plug is positioned in the plug socket. The sensor's location on the vertically extending conductor plate automatically positions the sensor close to the plug to be detected, without the need for additional mounting or laborious manual positioning of the sensor. This not only allows for more reliable detection, but also reduces assembly efforts. In a preferred embodiment, the sensor is a proximity sensor, in particular an RFID type. Since proximity sensors can detect without contact, they offer greater freedom of positioning compared to physical contact sensors and also avoid sensor degradation due to wear, which is inevitable with physical contact sensors.

[0050] Preferably, the interconnector between the conductor plates is a flexible interconnector. Such a flexible interconnector can more easily tolerate angular changes and other small positional deviations, making positioning and assembly easier. In an advantageous embodiment, the flexible interconnector is fixedly attached to one or both of the conductor plates, in particular in a plug-less manner. This reduces the number of joint connections, which is advantageous for reliability and lifespan in protecting electrical continuity.

[0051] In a particularly advantageous embodiment that can ensure independent protection, the horizontally extending conductor plate, the flexible interconnector, and the vertically extending conductor plate are formed as a single unit, preferably by a rigid-flex printed circuit board (PCB). Such a rigid-flex printed circuit board not only reduces the number of plug and connector components, but also offers the possibility of a secure connection with the added advantage of contact reliability. The flexible interconnector attached to the conductor plate ensures that polarity reversal and incorrect board-to-board connections do not occur. Complex connections can also be made in a reliable and robust manner. The rigid-flex printed circuit board may have a flexible interconnector that is symmetrically arranged with an inner flexible layer (usually in the center of the PCB thickness) or asymmetrically arranged with an outer flexible layer. The latter is suitable for use in the limited space of output sockets.

[0052] Advantageously, the conductors of the conductor plates are configured as impedance-controlled conductors, and preferably the conductors of the interconnectors are also configured as impedance-controlled conductors. Such impedance-controlled conductors allow precise control of the apparent impedance and characteristic impedance (wave impedance). This allows even high-speed signals and high-frequency voltages to be transmitted with minimal losses and minimal reflections. Such impedance-controlled conductors are not only characterized by fairly low loss and reflection values, but also have the advantage of a fairly constant impedance along the wiring. This ensures signal stability and further reduces electromagnetic radiation. This is a valuable advantage in the context of electrosurgical generators used in sensitive environments.

[0053] It is advantageous if the connector is mounted directly on the horizontally extending conductor plate, preferably along its rear edge, as this simplifies assembly since no movable connectors need to be used, although this is not essential and in some cases it may be sufficient to mount the connector indirectly on the horizontally extending conductor plate, for example by means of a stranded cable.

[0054] Preferably, the high frequency line supplying the high frequency voltage to the output socket includes a direct connection from the connector to the plug socket, the direct connection bypassing the interconnector between the conductor plates. This is particularly useful when transmitting high power high frequency voltage signals directly to the plug socket, thereby isolating the interconnector between the conductor plates from the associated high voltage and high power. Such a direct connection also allows for shorter wiring, which contributes to reducing electromagnetic radiation.

[0055] In an advantageous embodiment, the vertically extending conductor plate is provided with a clearance hole for the plug socket, which is configured to allow the body of the plug socket to pass through. This clearance hole allows the body of the plug socket to pass through the vertically extending conductor plate, thereby enabling contact from the rear and fixation of the plug socket at its front. The front plate is preferably a plate attached to the casing, and the front plate and the casing are advantageously formed as an integral part. This achieves a structurally beneficial and robust fixation of the plug socket, with the further advantage that the angled printed circuit board assembly, and in particular the vertically extending conductor plate, is not subjected to mechanical loads caused by this fixation. This prevents the considerable loads that may be caused by repeatedly inserting and removing electrosurgical instruments from the plug socket from the angled printed circuit board assembly and its electrical connections from being adversely affected. This improves the robustness of the output socket. However, this does not exclude the possibility of the plug socket being attached to a vertically extending conductor plate.

[0056] Advantageously, a clamping device may be provided configured to secure the vertically extending conductor plate to the plug socket, thereby achieving a mechanical connection between the plug socket and the vertically extending conductor plate, which serves to stabilize the position of the conductor plate and protect it from displacement, for example when transporting the electrosurgical generator.

[0057] Regarding the relative positioning of the horizontally extending conductor plate and the vertically extending conductor plate, in most cases the horizontally extending conductor plate is positioned adjacent to the lower or upper end of the vertically extending conductor plate. This has the advantage of providing sufficient space on the horizontally extending conductor plate for arranging additional components, for example, to provide additional advanced functionality. However, the horizontally extending conductor plate may also be positioned adjacent to the left or right side edge of the vertically extending conductor plate. This has the advantage of creating a large central free space behind the plug socket, which improves access to the plug socket itself and further aids in heat removal. Particularly in cases where the electrosurgical generator is a fairly complex generator with several output sockets stacked on top of each other, the central free space allows the warm air to rise unrestrictedly upward, thereby removing heat. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0058] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to advantageous exemplary embodiments, in which:

[0059] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an electrosurgical generator according to an exemplary embodiment with electrosurgical equipment attached. [Figure 2] 2 shows a schematic functional diagram of the electrosurgical generator shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3a] FIG. 1 shows a front view of the face plate of the housing of the electrosurgical generator. [Figure 3b] 1 shows a rear view of the face plate of the housing of the electrosurgical generator. [Figure 4a]FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of the casing of the output socket of the electrosurgical generator. [Figure 4b] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the rear of the casing of the output socket of the electrosurgical generator. [Figure 5] 1 shows a schematic diagram of the conductor plate of the output socket. [Figure 6a] 10 shows an alternative embodiment of a modularly replaceable conductor plate. [Figure 6b] 10 shows an alternative embodiment of a modularly replaceable conductor plate. [Figure 7] 1 shows a first variant in which the lighting is provided on the front part of the casing by means of LEDs. [Figure 8a] 1 shows a second variant in which illumination is provided by a light guide. [Figure 8b] 1 shows a second variant in which illumination is provided by a light guide. [Figure 8c] 1 shows a second variant in which illumination is provided by a light guide. [Figure 9a] A third variant is shown in which lighting is provided by an LED board as a frame. [Figure 9b] A third variant is shown in which lighting is provided by an LED board as a frame. [Figure 9c] A third variant is shown in which lighting is provided by an LED board as a frame. [Figure 10a] A fourth variant is shown in which lighting is provided indirectly by means of LEDs. [Figure 10b] A fourth variant is shown in which lighting is provided indirectly by means of LEDs. [Figure 11a] 10 shows a fifth variant in which illumination is provided indirectly by a light guide. [Figure 11b] 10 shows a fifth variant in which illumination is provided indirectly by a light guide. [Figure 12a] 10 shows a sixth variant in which illumination is provided by a light guide. [Figure 12b] 10 shows a seventh variant in which illumination is provided by a light guide. [Figure 13a]1 shows a bottom view of the circuit board assembly in a flat state. [Figure 13b] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a circuit board assembly in an angled position. [Figure 14a] 10A-10C show schematic diagrams of alternative configurations of angled circuit board assemblies. [Figure 14b] 10A-10C show schematic diagrams of alternative configurations of angled circuit board assemblies. [Figure 15a] 1 shows a detailed view of the interconnect of the circuit board assembly in a flat state. [Figure 15b] FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the interconnect of the circuit board assembly in an angled position. [Figure 16a] 1 shows a perspective view of an assembled output socket ready for installation. [Figure 16b] 1 shows a cross-sectional view of the assembled output socket in a ready-to-install state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0060] An electrosurgical generator according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 1. The electrosurgical generator, generally identified by the reference numeral 1, comprises a housing 10 having at least one output socket 3 (a total of four output sockets 3, 3′, 3″ in the exemplary embodiment shown) for connecting electrosurgical equipment 9. A power cable 13 with a power plug 12 is provided for connection to a power source. The power source may be the power grid, such as the AC mains power of a building, or an off-grid source of electrical energy, such as a 12-volt or 24-volt battery in a vehicle or mobile hospital. Additionally, a user interface 14 is provided, including a display 15 and an input device, such as a knob 16, for user input. The display 15 displays information regarding inputs made by the user and the status of the electrosurgical generator 1. The user interface 14 enables the user to issue instructions and commands to a control unit 20, which controls the operation of the electrosurgical generator 1 and its components, including the frequency and voltage of the AC voltage emitted by the output socket 3 and the mode of operation.

[0061] The electrosurgical instrument comprises a cable 93 having a high voltage plug 94 which plugs into the output socket 3 to supply high frequency AC voltage for operation of the electrosurgical instrument 9 .

[0062] FIG. 2 shows a schematic functional diagram of the internal circuitry 2 of the electrosurgical generator 1. The internal circuitry 2 includes a power supply unit 21, which receives electrical energy via a power cable 13. The power supply unit 21 supplies power to a DC bus 22 connected to an inverter 23 configured to generate high-frequency alternating current in the high-voltage range of several kilovolts. The operation of the inverter 23 is managed by a control unit 20. The control unit 20 is connected to a user interface 14 so that a user can issue instructions and commands for the operation of the electrosurgical generator 1. In accordance with these instructions and commands, the control unit 20 generates corresponding control signals to control the relevant components of the internal circuitry 2. This causes the inverter 23 to generate the high-frequency alternating current voltage supplied to the electrosurgical instrument 9. To accomplish this, the high-frequency high-voltage output generated by the inverter 23 is sent to the output socket 3 via an output connection 24. The output connection 24 typically includes two conductors, one for the neutral electrode NE and the other for the active electrode AE. The output connection 24 includes a DC-blocking capacitor 25. An electrosurgical instrument 9 with a cable 93 and attached plug 94 can be plugged into the output socket 3. The actual voltage and current of the high frequency AC voltage supplied to the output socket 3 is measured by a voltage / current sensor 28. The measurement signal of the voltage / current sensor 28 is fed back to the control unit 20 of the electrosurgical generator 1 by a feedback unit 29.

[0063] The output socket 3 comprises a casing 4 having a plug socket 5 configured to receive a plug 94 of an electrosurgical instrument 9, the plug socket 5 being located at the front of the casing 4 for easy access. A conductor plate 6 and a connector 7 attached to the conductor plate 6 are inserted into the casing 4, the connector 7 being located at the rear of the casing 4 (see Figures 4a and 4b). High-power, high-frequency AC voltage lines (i.e., power lines supplied to the output socket 3 via the output connection 24) are connected to the connector 7. Other data and / or signal lines, indicated by dashed lines 26, for communication and data exchange between the output socket 3 and the electrosurgical instrument 9 connected, preferably via its plug 94, are also connected to the connector 7.

[0064] There may be a variety of different electrosurgical instruments 9 having different configurations (e.g., unipolar or bipolar) and having different plugs 94 that attach to one of a variety of different output sockets 3, 3', 3". The plugs 94 may be of different configurations from one another and, in particular, may have one or two prongs 95 for high frequency alternating voltage depending on whether the electrosurgical instrument 9 is unipolar or bipolar. Additionally, an additional prong 96 may be provided for a data signal, although data transmission may be contactless.

[0065] 3a and 3b show front and rear views of the front plate 11 of the housing 10. The front plate 11 is provided with the different output sockets 3, 3', and 3" as described above according to various examples. As can be easily seen from FIG. 3a, the output sockets 3, 3', and 3" all have the same size and share the same outline, allowing the output sockets 3, 3', and 3" to be placed in the same cutouts. Additionally, a second group of output sockets 8 is shown, which are smaller and configured to provide a neutral earth potential. For illustrative purposes, an extra cutout 18 is shown in dashed lines in FIGS. 3a and 3b. Thus, any output socket can be placed in any one of the cutouts without further modification. This makes it easy to equip the electrosurgical generator 1 with multiple different output sockets 3, 3', and 3".

[0066] 4a, 4b, and 5 show the configuration of the output socket 3 with a conductor plate 6. The conductor plate 6 is replaceably inserted into the casing 4. FIGS. 6a and 6b show alternative embodiments of conductor plates 6', 6" that can be replaceably inserted into the casing 4. The casing 4 features a general box-like structure and is shown in a partially cutaway perspective view in FIGS. 4a and 4b. A plug socket 5 is arranged on the front part of the casing 4. The plug socket 5 is configured to receive a plug 94 with prongs 95 of an electrosurgical instrument 9. Various alternative embodiments of the plug sockets 5', 5" can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 3a. Furthermore, a light guide 44 is provided on the front part, and the light guide 44 surrounds the outer periphery of the plug socket 5. The plug socket 5 surrounded by the light guide 44 is therefore illuminated, and the illumination can be in various colors to convey further color-coded status signals to the user.

[0067] As shown in Figure 4b, the rear surface of the casing 4 features a generally open design. The conductor plate 6 is inserted into the casing 4 through this opening and secured therein. The rear end of the conductor plate 6 is provided with a connector 7 configured to connect the casing 4 with the conductor plate 6 to the internal circuitry 2 of the electrosurgical generator 1. The connector 7 transmits high-frequency, high-voltage power, as well as data and signal lines. For this purpose, a separator 70 is provided, defining the two sections 71, 72 of the connector 7. The separator 70 may be a structural element or a predetermined spacing with a predetermined minimum distance to provide adequate spatial separation to the high-voltage lines.

[0068] Portion 71 is configured to receive and connect data and signal lines to the conductors of conductor plate 6, while portion 72 is configured to connect the high-power, high-frequency AC voltage generated by inverter 23 and transmitted to output socket 3 by output connection 24. Portion 72 can similarly connect high-power lines (particularly output connection 24 of inverter 23) to the conductors of conductor plate 6. However, in a preferred alternative shown in FIG. 4b, this portion 72 of connector 7 is connected via direct high-voltage wiring (high-frequency conductor lines) 74, 75 to the respective contacts of plug socket 5 that receive prongs 95 of plug 94 of electrosurgical instrument 9. This effectively separates the high-voltage lines from the data / signal lines within the casing 4 of output socket 3. Connecting output socket 3 to the internal circuit 2 of electrosurgical generator 1 requires no further action beyond inserting the respective plug into connector 7. No further connections are required. In particular, it is not necessary to connect a single wire to or within output socket 3. This allows for efficient assembly and eliminates the risk of messy wiring and incorrect installation.

[0069] The conductor plate 6 and its components are described in more detail with reference to FIG. 5 . Additionally, the plug socket 5 and its surrounding light guide 44 are shown. The back side of the conductor plate 6 (bottom of the figure) shows the connector 7, which is directly mounted on the conductor plate 6. A light-emitting device 81 is attached to the front side of the conductor plate 6 near its side edge. The light-emitting device 81 is located at a single position 82 in front of the attachment 45 of the light guide 44, which serves as an inlet for the light emitted by the light-emitting device 81. To illuminate the light guide 44 with different colors, the light-emitting device 81 features multiple LEDs with different colors, specifically red, green, and yellow. However, multicolor LEDs may also be used. Thanks to the single position 82, proper coupling of the light emitted by the light-emitting device 81 into the light guide 44 can be achieved regardless of the actual configuration of the conductor plate 6 and / or the light-emitting device 81. This facilitates the use of different conductor plates.

[0070] Furthermore, the conductor plate 6 is equipped with a contactless interface 64, in particular an RFID device. Furthermore, the conductor plate 6 may be provided with a proximity sensor 65 that detects whether or not a plug 94 is plugged into the plug socket 5. Furthermore, the contactless interface 64 may be provided with a data interface 66. The proximity sensor 65 and / or the data interface 66 can achieve two purposes: first, it can detect whether or not an electrosurgical instrument 9 is plugged into the output socket 3, and second, if an electrosurgical instrument 9 is plugged in, it can determine what type of electrosurgical instrument 9 is connected.

[0071] The contactless interface 64, particularly as an RFID device, may be used to read the internal memory 92 of the electrosurgical instrument 9, which may provide additional data regarding the type, variety, and / or details regarding the usage of the electrosurgical instrument 9. Additionally, the interface may allow a particular mode of operation ("mode") to be read from the internal memory 92 of the electrosurgical instrument 9 and for this information to be communicated via the connector 7 to the control unit 20 of the electrosurgical generator 1, thereby allowing the electrosurgical generator 1 to operate in accordance with the mode.

[0072] Conductor plate 6 may also include drive electronics 60, as well as control electronics 68 for controlling various components of conductive plate 6, including contactless interface 64. Conductor plate 6 may also include an auxiliary data interface 69 configured to communicate with specific devices on electrosurgical instrument 9, such as a hand switch 91 provided on the body of electrosurgical instrument 9. Auxiliary data interface 69 may also be configured to communicate with a data source of electrosurgical instrument 9, such as internal memory 92. This allows user actions, such as actuation of hand switch 91, to be detected and this information to be propagated to electrosurgical generator control unit 20 via connector 7 and data line 26.

[0073] Furthermore, to properly distinguish the various output sockets 3 on the conductor plate 6, the conductor plate 6 is provided with a modular identification unit 67. The modular identification unit 67 is configured to identify the type of output socket 3 and the function of its conductor plate 6. This modular identification unit 67 communicates with the internal circuitry 2 of the electrosurgical generator 1, particularly its control unit 20. This modular identification unit 67 allows the control unit 20 to determine which type of output socket 3 is attached and what its function is. Based on this determination, the control unit 20 can configure the electrosurgical generator 1 and / or adjust the operation of the electrosurgical generator 1. The modular identification unit 67 may be configured as a passive or active unit, such as having a resistor or RC network, or as an active unit, such as equipped with a microprocessor or (E)EPROM for more detailed or complex identification.

[0074] Therefore, all functions and necessary connections can be achieved by connecting the (single) connector 7 to the internal circuitry 2 of the electrosurgical generator 1. This is much simpler and less error prone than implementing a single wire.

[0075] In Figures 6a and 6b alternative embodiments of conductor plates 6', 6" are shown. These are conductor boards with different functions, which can be inserted into the same casing 4 to form different output sockets 3', 3" with different plug sockets 5', 5" if necessary, without the need for mechanical modifications. This maintains the advantages and simplicity of installation and connection.

[0076] The conductor plate 6' is a simplified version with fewer parts. The light-emitting device 81' is equipped with a single multicolor LED. However, in contrast to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the connector 7 features, in its part 72, two pairs of direct cable connections (high-frequency conductor lines) 74, 75 to the plug socket 5. The conductor plate 6" is another simplified version. Its light-emitting device 81" is equipped with two monochromatic LEDs, thereby conveying fewer different color-coded information. Because the light-emitting devices 81', 81" are arranged in a single position 82, it is not necessary to adapt the light guide 44 to its attachment 45. Thus, in a modular manner, either of the conductor plates 6', 6" can be arranged in the same casing 4 using the same type of connector 7 for connecting to the internal circuitry 2 of the electrosurgical generator.

[0077] This makes it much easier to provide different sets of output sockets 3, 3', 3". Next, various lighting options for providing suitable lighting in front of the output sockets 3 will be described.

[0078] 7 shows a first simple but effective variant in which the casing 4 has a through hole 42 extending from the rear face to the front face of the casing 4. At the rear end of the through hole 42, an LED 81 for illumination is inserted. I A filter 49 is attached to the front of the through-hole, and the LED 81 I This allows the LED81 to color the light it emits. I For efficient and space-saving implementation, only through-holes 42 need to be manufactured, and a filter 49 may be added if coloring is required, but in other cases the filter 49 can be omitted for further simplification. The drive electronics can be freely positioned, further reducing the space requirements of this variant.

[0079] 8a-8c show a second variation using a light guide 44 disposed in a notch 43 extending along three sides of the front part 41 of the casing 4. The three sides are two side faces and the top of the front part 41, although other configurations are possible. The outer periphery of the casing 4 structure, provided with the notch 43, is fixed to a hole in the front plate 11 of the generator housing 10. To achieve not only mechanical fixation but also sealing against unwanted high frequency (HF) leakage, a high frequency (HF) seal 31 is provided (see the exploded view in FIG. 4a). The high frequency seal 31 extends circumferentially along the periphery of the casing 4 and, when installed, is located between the front plate 11 and the periphery of the casing 4.

[0080] In addition to the light guide 44, a translucent element 47 is disposed within the notch 43. The light guide 44 is located at the bottom of the notch 43, and the translucent element 47 covers the light guide, thereby protecting the light guide 44 and smoothly diffusing the light. Because both the light guide 44 and the translucent element 47 are disposed within the notch 43, the periphery of the casing 4 is not affected, and therefore no additional or more complex seals are required.

[0081] As shown in Figure 8c, the light guide 44 may be provided with an optional extension 46. Thus, the light emitting device need not be located in the casing 4, but rather may be located in a more remote location, somewhere within the housing 10 of the electrosurgical generator 1. This frees up valuable space in the casing 4 and allows for greater freedom in positioning the light emitting device within the housing.

[0082] 9a-9c show an alternative approach to providing illumination according to a third variant. Here, the casing 4 is provided with a peripheral frame 80 that holds at least one light-emitting device, in particular an LED 81. The frame 80 forms the outer periphery of the casing 4 and is optionally connected to the front plate 11 by using a seal 31 between said frame 80 and the front plate 11. The frame 80 with the LED 81 is covered with a translucent front cover (translucent element) 47. This integrates the additional functions of "sealing" and "illumination" into the frame package.

[0083] To achieve indirect lighting, the LEDs 81 are offset toward the periphery so that when installed they are covered by the front plate 11. Direct light from the LEDs 81 is not directed at the user's eyes, reducing eye strain.

[0084] In a fourth variant shown in Figures 10a and 10b, a series of cutouts 40 are provided along the top edge of the front portion 41 of the casing 4. The cutouts 40 are arranged in a line with one another. An LED 81 is located in each cutout 40, and the LEDs 81 are arranged on the LED substrate 80 at intervals that match the intervals between the cutouts 40. This allows light from the LEDs 81 to be emitted directly from the cutouts 40 onto the front portion 41 of the casing 4. The dashed ovals in the figures represent the light emission. Furthermore, due to the proximity of the LED substrate 80 to the cutouts 40, it is flat within the periphery of the casing 4, thereby avoiding the need for additional seals.

[0085] In a fifth variant shown in Figures 11a and 11b, a series of cutouts 40 are provided along the top edge of the front face 41, similar to the fourth variant. However, in this fifth variant, a light guide 44 is used instead of the LEDs in the cutouts. As in the fourth variant, the light guide 44 is positioned to emit light through the openings to directly illuminate the front face 41. Similarly, because the light guide is mounted flush, no additional seal is required. However, in the fifth variant, LEDs are not required in the casing; rather, the light-emitting device can be located anywhere convenient within the generator housing 10. To transmit light to the casing, the light guide 44 is provided with an extension 46, as previously described.

[0086] In a sixth variant shown in FIG. 12a, a planar light guide 44 VI is arranged in the casing 4 and forms a front surface in the area of ​​the plug socket 5. Furthermore, a planar light guide 44 VI The planar light guide 44 is provided with a masking 48 having a masking hole 48' around the plug socket 5. VI is positioned approximately perpendicular to the direction of insertion of the plug of the electrosurgical instrument 9 into the plug socket, which allows for efficient pinpoint illumination of the actual plug, thereby facilitating insertion of the plug of the electrosurgical instrument 9.

[0087] Similarly, in a seventh variant shown in FIG. 12b, contacts within the plug socket 5 are made by a contact sleeve that is contacted by a rear-mounted contact ring 53. However, the sleeve / ring configuration creates a through-hole 51 in the socket that extends from the front face 41 to the rear opening of the plug. In this case, an LED 81 is mounted in the rear opening of the socket through-hole 51, allowing it to emit light through said through-hole 51 towards the front face 41. This allows for easy and accurate illumination, with minimal effort, of the exact location where the plug of the electrosurgical instrument 9 needs to be inserted. This variant achieves maximum effect with minimal effort.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 13-16b, the conductor plate 6 is an angled printed circuit board assembly 6 comprising a horizontally extending conductor plate 62 and a vertically extending conductor plate 61. * The connector 7 is attached to the rear end of the horizontally extending conductor plate 62. * and its components are described in more detail with reference to Figures 13a-b and 14a-b. Connector 7 is shown at rear end 628 of horizontally extending conductor plate 62. At the opposite end, i.e., front end 626, of horizontally extending conductor plate 62 is located vertically extending conductor plate 61.

[0089] FIG. 13a shows the angled printed circuit board assembly 6 in its unangled state. * 13b shows a bottom view of the assembly, and FIG. 13b shows a perspective view of the assembly moved to an angled position. On horizontally extending conductor plate 62, conductors 625 can be seen connecting the area where connector 7 (shown in dashed lines) is attached to vertically extending conductor plate 61 via flexible interconnector 65. Conductor plate 61 is provided with electrical components such as a number of light sources 612 and an RFID-type proximity sensor 611 that detects whether plug 94 is inserted into plug socket 5.

[0090] Similarly, the horizontally extending conductor plate 62 may be provided with electrical components such as a contactless interface 622 configured to determine what kind or type of electrosurgical instrument 9 is plugged in and to transfer corresponding data to the control unit 20 of the electrosurgical generator 1 via the data lines of the connector 7 and the data lines 26.

[0091] Furthermore, the conductor plate 61 is provided with two clearance holes 60, 60' shaped and dimensioned to allow passage of the respective bodies 56 of the plug sockets 5, 5'. Light sources 612 are arranged along the periphery of the clearance holes 60, 60'.

[0092] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14a, the horizontally extending conductor plate 62 is attached to the bottom edge 617 of the vertically extending conductor plate 61. It could also be attached to the top edge 616. This provides a flat orientation and a fairly large surface for the horizontally extending conductor plate 62, which also facilitates positioning of complex electrical circuits with many components. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 14b, the horizontally extending conductor plate 62' could be attached to a side of the vertically extending conductor plate 61 (the left side 618 in the illustrated embodiment). This allows for an alternative angled printed circuit board assembly 6 ** It is apparent that the horizontally extending conductor plate 62' can also be disposed on the other side (right side 619). This configuration has the advantage of providing a fairly large, unobstructed open space behind the vertically extending conductor plate 61, thereby promoting vertical airflow and improving cooling.

[0093] 15a and 15b show an angled printed circuit board assembly 6, which is a rigid-flex printed circuit board with a flexible interconnect formed as an integral part. * A preferred embodiment of the flexible interconnect 65 is shown in detail. Figure 15a shows the flexible interconnect 65 in its original flat state, and Figure 15b shows the flexible interconnect 65 in its operable angled state. The flexible interconnect 65 is a one-piece part that features an extension located on one of the major surfaces of either of the conductor plates 61, 62. The operative position, i.e., the conductor plate assembly (angled printed circuit board assembly 6 *) the conductor plate 61 is moved to a vertical position. In the vertical position, the flexible interconnect 65 follows suit as required, so that the conductor plate 61 only needs to be tilted to the appropriate position as the flexible interconnect 65. The advantage is that no special connections need to be made, which inseparably joins the two conductor plates 61, 62. Variations in position, especially with regard to the angular position, are well tolerated by the flexible interconnect 65, which allows the angled printed circuit board assembly 6 * This provides an easy to assemble and robust connection of the horizontally extending conductor plate 61 to the vertically extending conductor plate 62.

[0094] 16a and 16b show the angled printed circuit board assembly 6 in the assembled position. * 4b, a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of the casing 4 are shown. Two plug sockets 5, 5' are shown, which are arranged in clearance holes 60, 60', and their bodies 56 are arranged in the large space behind the front part 41 of the casing 4. At the rear of the body 56, the plug sockets 5, 5' are shown with contact tabs 55 configured to receive direct wiring (high frequency conductor lines) 74, 75 (see FIG. 4b) for supplying high frequency high voltage from the connector 7.

[0095] The correct positioning of the socket 5 on the front part 41 is ensured by a clamping device 54 configured as a nut, which must be tightened to press the socket 5 into place against the front part 41. In the illustrated embodiment, a vertically extending conductor plate 61 is also arranged below the nut of the clamping device 54, which also fixes the conductor plate 61 to the front part 41, thereby increasing stability.

[0096] Also shown is the attachment 45 having the entrance to the light guide 44. The angled position of the vertically extending conductive plate 61 allows the light source 612 mounted thereon to be aligned with the angled printed circuit board assembly 6 *When the output socket 3 is inserted into the casing 4 and assembled, it is automatically positioned in front of the inlet of the attachment part 45. This allows for efficient manufacturing and assembly of the output socket 3.

[0097] The other output sockets 3', 3" are similarly constructed and assembled. They differ mainly in the number and type of plug sockets 5, 5'.

[0098] Final assembly is accomplished by simply placing the output sockets 3', 3" together with the casing 4 in place on the front plate 11 of the housing 10 of the electrosurgical generator 1 and connecting the connector 7 to the internal circuitry 2 of the electrosurgical generator 1.

Claims

1. An electrosurgical generator comprising a housing (10), an internal circuit (2) configured to generate a high frequency voltage and output the generated high frequency voltage to an electrosurgical instrument (9), and at least one output socket (3) for connecting a plug of the electrosurgical instrument (9), the at least one output socket (3) constituting a part of the housing (10), the at least one output socket (3) is configured as a free-standing unit having a casing (4) configured to be attachable to a front plate (11) of the housing (10) and a plug socket (5) attached to the front part of the casing (4) for plugging in the electrosurgical instrument (9); The at least one output socket (3) has: a printed circuit board (6) configured to be inserted into the casing (4) and to provide electrical connections within the output socket; a connector (7) provided on the printed circuit board (6) for connection to the internal circuitry (2) of the electrosurgical generator; The printed circuit board (6) is provided with control electronics (68) configured to control other components on the printed circuit board (6); the control electronics (68) are communicatively connected to a control unit (20) of the internal circuit (2). Electrosurgical generator.

2. the at least one output socket (3) is selected from a group of differently configured output sockets (3, 3', 3"), the group of the plurality of output sockets (3, 3', 3") having the same outer periphery and contour of the casing (4); and / or The printed circuit board (6) is selected from a plurality of printed circuit boards (6, 6', 6") having different functions, and the plurality of printed circuit boards (6, 6', 6") are provided in the casing (4) so ​​as to be mechanically replaceable.

10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

3. said control electronics (68) for a light emitting device and / or for a contactless interface; 10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

4. The printed circuit board (6) is further provided with a signaling device, which interacts with the control electronics (68) to notify a user of status information.

4. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 3.

5. The at least one output socket (3) is configured so that the casing (4) is disposed within a cutout in the housing (10).

10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

6. the printed circuit board (6) is provided with a module identification unit (67) configured to communicate with the internal circuit (2), the module identification unit (67) being configured to identify the type and / or function of the output socket (5); and / or an auxiliary data interface (69) provided on the printed circuit board (6), the auxiliary data interface (69) configured to communicate with a signaling device on the electrosurgical instrument (9); and / or the printed circuit board (6) is provided with driving electronics (60) for a light emitting device (81) and / or a contactless interface (64), the contactless interface (64) being configured to communicate with the electrosurgical instrument (9); 10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

7. said control electronics (68) being configured to interact with at least one of a group comprising a module identification unit (67), an auxiliary data interface (69), a driving component for a light emitting device, and a contactless interface; An electrosurgical generator according to any one of claims 3 to 5.

8. The casing (4) is provided with a light guide (44) configured to illuminate the front of the casing (4).

10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

9. the casing (4) is provided with a receiving portion for a light emitting device (81) and / or the printed circuit board (6) is provided with a light emitting device (81); the light emitting device (81) is configured to provide light to the light guide (44) and / or to provide light to the translucent insert; 10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

10. The casing (4) is provided with a peripheral frame (80) that forms the outer periphery of the casing (4) and that holds at least one light-emitting device (81), and the peripheral frame is configured to be attachable to the front plate (11) of the housing (10).

10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

11. the light emitting device (81) is arranged at a single location (82) on the printed circuit board (6, 6', 6"), and / or The light emitting device (81) is configured to emit light of different colors.

11. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 9 or claim 10.

12. at least one cutout is provided in an edge of the casing, the cutout having an opening to the front of the casing and configured as a receiving section for a light guide or a light emitting device; 10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

13. the cutout is provided with a seat for an illumination board (80), the illumination board (80) being adapted to hold at least one light-emitting device; and / or a light guide disposed within the notch (40) to emit light through the notch (40) to the front surface; 13. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 12.

14. the front part of the casing, at least in the area of ​​the socket (5), is formed by a planar light guide; 10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

15. The plug socket (5) has a hollow interior, and an opening is provided at the rear end of the plug socket (5), in which a light-emitting device is arranged, configured to emit light through the hollow interior to the front part of the casing (4).

10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

16. The casing (4) is provided with a circumferential high frequency seal (31).

10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

17. A second group of casings (8) having different outer circumferences are provided for a plurality of output sockets configured for a plurality of different types of electrosurgical instruments.

10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

18. the connector (7) is directly attached to the printed circuit board (6), and / or The at least one output socket (3) is provided with a wiring (74) for supplying the high frequency voltage, the wiring (74) being contained within the connector.

10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

19. The printed circuit board (6) is configured as an angled printed circuit board assembly (6'), The angled printed circuit board assembly (6') comprises: a vertically extending printed circuit board portion (61) disposed adjacent to the front portion of the casing (4); a horizontally extending printed circuit board portion (62) positioned rearward of the vertically extending printed circuit board portion and oriented to face rearward; an interconnector (65) for providing electrical connection between the printed circuit board portions; The horizontally extending printed circuit board portion (62) is provided with the connector (7) for connection to the internal circuit (2) and a plurality of conductors (625) for transmitting electrical energy to the vertically extending printed circuit board portion (61).

10. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 1.

20. The interconnector (65) between the printed circuit board portions is a flexible interconnector.

20. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 19.

21. The wiring supplying the high frequency voltage to the output socket includes a direct connection (74, 75) from the connector (7) to the plug socket (5), the direct connection (74, 75) bypassing the interconnector (65) between the printed circuit board parts (61, 62).

21. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 19 or claim 20.

22. The vertically extending printed circuit board portion (61) is provided with a clearance hole (60) for the plug socket (5); The clearance hole (60) is configured to allow the body (56) of the plug socket (5) to pass through.

21. An electrosurgical generator according to claim 19 or claim 20.

Images