Bone crushing module and related system with locking mechanism

Abstract

The grinding module 814 for converting aggregate into bone chips comprises a shell 816 adapted to be removably attached to a base module 812 including a motor 813. The shell 816 comprises a body 818, a grinding element 822, a lid 820, and a locking element 824. The grinding element for converting aggregate into bone chips is movably disposed within the shell. The lid is shaped to be removably attached to the body to allow removal of residual bone chips from the grinding element. The locking element is movable between an unlocked position positioned relative to the lid to allow removal of the lid from the body, and a locked position positioned relative to the lid to prevent removal of the lid from the body.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure broadly relates to a crushing module for converting bone stock into bone chips that can be used in surgical procedures. More specifically, this disclosure broadly relates to a modular system for converting bone stock into bone chips, comprising a base module and a crushing module.

[0002] [Cross-reference of related applications] This application claims priority and all interests of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 028,661, filed on 22 May 2020, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0003] Conventional medical and surgical procedures routinely use bone fragments, often collectively called bone grafts, to fill the gaps between bone segments and provide a natural base for bone growth.

[0004] For example, spinal procedures (such as discectomy) utilize bone grafts. In such procedures, bone grafts are inserted around a graft rod that holds adjacent vertebrae in an aligned state. The bone graft acts as a lattice, with vertebral tissue growing to form a bone base around the rod. This base distributes the load applied to the rod. In addition, bone grafts may be placed within the intervertebral disc space or within a cage positioned within the intervertebral disc space.

[0005] As another example, orthopedic procedures such as joint reconstruction, revision procedures, and maxillofacial procedures utilize bone grafts. In such procedures, bone grafts are used as fillers and / or growth formation lattices (fillers, growth formation lattices, or both) because the bone-forming proteins function as building blocks for adjacent living osteoblast cells to form new bone.

[0006] The ideal source of bone material for bone fragments is the patient from whom the bone fragments will be placed. This is because the patient's own bone is less likely to be rejected by the patient's immune system than donor bone. Therefore, in procedures where bone fragments are required, the bone material is typically 0.25 cm. 3 ~3cm 3 It is often taken from one of the patient's bones that can be lost in a small portion of the bone. Bone material taken from a patient to be transplanted to another part of the patient is called autograft bone stock.

[0007] Converting bone material into bone fragments is typically a two-step process. In the first step of this process, the harvested bone is pre-treated by removing ligaments and other soft tissues unsuitable for bone fragment formation, in order to be crushed and used. The pre-treated bone is then crushed into bone fragments and used as bone grafts. When harvesting bone material to convert it into bone fragments, it is ideal not to harvest more bone material than is necessary to supply the required volume of bone fragments. This is because minimizing the volume of bone material harvested from the patient also minimizes trauma to the bone from which the bone material was harvested and to the surrounding tissues. [Overview of the project]

[0008] A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments is described. The crushing module comprises a shell adapted to be removablely attached to a base module equipped with a motor. The shell comprises a body, a crushing element, a lid, and a locking element. The crushing element for converting aggregate into bone fragments is movably positioned within the shell. The lid is removablely attached to the body and is molded to allow the removal of residual bone fragments from the crushing element. The locking element is movable between an unlocked position in which the locking element is positioned relative to the lid to allow the lid to be removed from the body, and a locked position in which the locking element is positioned relative to the lid to prevent the lid from being removed from the body.

[0009] A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments is also described. The modular system comprises a base module with a motor, a crushing module, and a locking element. The crushing module comprises a shell adapted to be removablely attached to the base module. The shell comprises a body, a crushing element movable within the shell for converting aggregate into bone fragments, and a lid molded to be removablely attached to the body. The locking element has a control surface and a locking portion. Furthermore, the locking element is movable between a locked position in which the lid cannot be removed and an unlocked position in which the lid can be removed. When the crushing module is attached to the base module, the control surface is inaccessible for operation, and when the locking element is in the locked position and the crushing module is not attached to the base module, the control surface is accessible for operation.

[0010] A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments using a modular system is also described. This method includes the steps of: operating a grinding element to convert aggregate into bone fragments while the grinding module is attached to a base module; separating the grinding module from the base module so that a control surface on a locking element can be accessed; applying force to the control surface after separating the grinding module from the base module to move the locking element to an unlocked position, thereby enabling the removal of the lid from the body; and removing the lid from the body of the grinding module shell.

[0011] A second example of a grinding module is described. In this example, the grinding module is configured to be used with a motor, a controller, and a base module having a support surface with alignment teeth, a sensor, and a boss. The grinding module comprises a shell adapted to be removablely mounted to the base module. The shell comprises a bottom surface and an outer wall extending around the periphery of the bottom surface. Alignment guides are molded into the outer wall to receive alignment teeth on the base module, and the alignment guides are configured to align the grinding module to the base module and to facilitate efficient and proper mounting of the grinding module to the base module. Furthermore, module retaining elements extend from the bottom surface and engage with bosses on the base module to define a void for dissipating rotational energy when the grinding module is in use. The bottom surface has a magnet attached to it, which is detectable by a sensor when the grinding module is mounted to the base module. A grinding element that converts aggregate into bone fragments is movably arranged inside the shell.

[0012] A second example of a modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments is also described. The modular system comprises a base module with a motor, a crushing module, and a locking element. The crushing module comprises a shell adapted to be removablely attached to the base module. The shell comprises a body, a crushing element movable within the shell for converting aggregate into bone fragments, and a lid molded to be removablely attached to the body. The locking element is movable between an unlocked position in which the locking element is positioned relative to the lid to allow the lid to be removed from the body, and a locked position in which the locking element is positioned relative to the lid to prevent the lid from being removed from the body.

[0013] The grinding modules, modular systems, and methods for converting aggregate into bone fragments described herein are designed to ensure the maximum possible bone fragment yield. Furthermore, the locking elements of the grinding modules are designed to reduce the possibility of the grinding module lid becoming impossible to remove when the grinding module is attached to the base module, and the grinding elements inside the grinding module ensure that the possibility of damage or physical destruction when removing residual bone fragments from the grinding module after grinding is substantially eliminated.

[0014] This disclosure is described in detail in the claims. The above and further features and advantages of this disclosure are understood from the following "Modes for Carrying Out the Invention," which are taken up together with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] This is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, comprising a base module and a crushing module. [Figure 2] This is a partial cross-sectional view of a grinding module, which includes a lid and a locking element in a locking position to prevent the lid from being removed from the main body. [Figure 3] This is a partial cross-sectional view of the crushing module in Figure 2, where the locking element is in the unlocked position, allowing the lid to be removed from the main body. [Figure 4] It is a partial cross-sectional view of another grinding module including a lid and a locking element at a locking position that prevents the lid from being removed from the main body. [Figure 5] It is a partial cross-sectional view of the grinding module of FIG. 4, where the locking element is at a release position that allows the lid to be removed from the main body. [Figure 6] It is a perspective view of a grinding module including a lid and a locking element including a locking arm that prevents the lid from being removed from the main body at the locking position. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view of yet another grinding module including a catch tray having a tab configured to prevent removal of the lid when the catch tray is in place and the grinding module is attached to the base module. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view of yet another grinding module including a lid having a retainer that cooperates with the catch tray to prevent removal of the lid when the catch tray is in place and the grinding module is attached to the base module. [Figure 9] It is a side view of yet another grinding module including a removably attached blade holder. [Figure 10] It is a perspective view of the grinding module of FIG. 9 with the catch tray removed. [Figure 11] It is a bottom perspective view of the grinding module of FIG. 9 with the catch tray removed. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart showing a method of converting an aggregate into bone fragments using a modular system including a base module and a grinding module. [Figure 13] It is an exploded perspective view of another example of a modular system for converting an aggregate into bone fragments, including a base module and a grinding module. [Figure 14] It is a separated side view of the grinding module of FIG. 13. [Figure 15] It is a separated bottom view of the grinding module of FIG. 13. [Figure 16] It is an exploded view of the grinding module of FIG. 13. [Figure 17]Figure 13 shows a separated side view of the crushing module with the main body made transparent. [Figure 18] Figure 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of a grinding module, which includes a lid and a locking element in a locking position to prevent the lid from being removed from the main body. [Figure 19] Figure 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of the grinding module, showing the force applied to the locking element to remove the lid. [Figure 20] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the grinding module with force applied to the shaft to remove the grinding element. [Figure 21] Figure 20 is a perspective view of the grinding module with the grinding element removed from the main body. [Figure 22] This flowchart illustrates another method for converting aggregate into bone fragments using a modular system comprising a base module and a crushing module. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] Figures 1 to 22 are illustrative and not necessarily to scale, and are not intended to show the relative sizes of the various components of the system described herein.

[0017] Referring to the drawings, a modular system ("System") 10 is described for crushing aggregate and optionally pre-treating (e.g., cleaning) the aggregate before crushing. An example of System 10 is shown in Figure 1. System 10 may also be referred to as a bone mill. System 10 comprises a base module 12. Inside the base module 12 are a motor 13 and a drive system. System 10 also comprises a crushing module 14 for converting aggregate into bone fragments, and the crushing module 14 is removablely attached to the base module 12. The crushing module 14 may also be referred to as a mill head. System 10 may optionally include a pre-treatment module (not shown) for cleaning the bone, and the pre-treatment module is also removablely attached to the base module 12, similar to the crushing module 14. The base module 12 is configured to supply power to the crushing module 14 and the pre-treatment module.

[0018] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of system 10 with the grinding module 14 separated from the base module 12. In the example shown in Figure 1, the base module 12 is reusable, and the grinding module 14 is disposable. Thus, the grinding module 14 can be discarded after use, and a (unused or cleaned / recycled) grinding module 14 can be installed for further use. Of course, other examples of system 10 include a grinding module 14 that is reusable and can be cleaned and / or pressure-sterilized between uses.

[0019] The grinding module 14 of this disclosure is constructed to ensure, to the greatest extent possible, the recovery of bone fragments generated during the grinding process. This ensures, to the greatest extent possible, that the maximum volume of bone fragments is recovered from a given volume of aggregate being ground, and that these fragments are available for use in surgical procedures requiring their use.

[0020] The grinding module 14 and base module 12 of this disclosure are further designed to reduce the possibility that the lid 20 of the grinding module 14 cannot be removed when the grinding module 14 is attached to the base module 12, thereby preventing the grinding elements inside the grinding module 14, which are configured to convert aggregate into bone fragments, from operating. This ensures that the possibility of damage or physical destruction when removing residual bone fragments from the grinding module 14 after grinding is substantially eliminated.

[0021] Referring next to Figure 2, a crushing module 114 for converting aggregate into bone fragments is described, comprising a shell 16 adapted to be removablely attached to a base module 12 comprising a motor 13. The shell 16 defines an inlet opening through which aggregate passes when introduced into the shell 16 and an outlet opening through which bone fragments pass when discharged from the shell 16. The shell 16 comprises a body 118, a crushing element 122 for converting aggregate into bone fragments, which is movably disposed inside the shell 16, a lid 120 molded to be removablely attached to the body 118 so as to allow removal of residual bone fragments from the crushing element 122, and a locking element 124. The locking element 124 is movably attached to the body 118 and is configured to engage with the lid 120 when the shell 16 is removablely attached to the base module 12. The locking element 124 is movable between a disengaged position in which the locking element 124 is positioned relative to the lid 120 so that the lid 120 can be removed from the body 118 (in this example, disengaged) and a locked position in which the locking element 124 is positioned relative to the lid 120 so that the lid 120 cannot be removed from the body 118 (in this example, engaged). The crushing element 122 is located below the entrance opening. The crushing element 122 converts the aggregate into bone fragments.

[0022] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a crushing element is shaped to press aggregate against an impact plate. The impact plate is integrated with or fixed to the shell 16. As a result of the crushing element's action of pressing the aggregate against the impact plate, the aggregate is sheared into fragments smaller in size / volume than the aggregate. Most of the fragments fall below the crushing element. In many embodiments of this disclosure, the fragments fall into a catch tray 44. The catch tray 44 is removable from the shell 16.

[0023] The grinding module 14 of this disclosure is further designed so that the shell 16 comprises a body 18 to which a lid 20 is removably attached. The removability of the lid 20 allows access to the grinding elements. When the lid 20 is removed, the grinding elements can be removed through an opening in the body 18 that was previously covered by the lid 20, or from the underside of the grinding module 14 if the grinding module 14 is separated from the base module 12. In many embodiments of this disclosure, the grinding elements are provided with handles. In many examples described herein, the lid 20 of the grinding module 14 can be removed from the body 18 of the shell 16 only when the grinding module 14 is not attached to the base module 12. Otherwise, i.e., when the grinding module 14 is attached to the base module 12, the grinding module 14 is configured such that the lid 20 is locked in place and cannot be removed from the body 18. Once bone fragments are formed, the grinding module 14 is separated from the base module 12, and then the lid 20 is removed. When the lid 20 is removed, the grinding element is removed from the shell 16. Using an appropriate tool such as a scraper, any bone fragments attached to the grinding element are scraped off and placed into the catch tray 44 that holds the bone fragments. Furthermore, with the lid 20 removed and the grinding element in place or removed, any bone fragments attached to the inner surface of the body 18 of the grinding module 14 can also be recovered for use. Typically, at this part of the procedure, the person recovering the bone fragments that might otherwise have been discarded will typically grasp the handle of the grinding element.

[0024] In some examples, the catch tray 44 and the lid 20 are removably attached to the body 18. In these embodiments of the disclosure, one or both of the lid 20 and the catch tray 44 are provided with a detection member. In these embodiments of the disclosure, the system 10 is designed so that when these components are in place (properly attached to the body 18 of the grinding module 14), they are detected by a sensor in the base module 12. If the sensor does not detect the presence of one or both of the detection members, the system 10 will not operate, for example, the motor 13 cannot be operated. This alerts the person performing the grinding process that the system 10 may be in a state where the lid 20 is not secured to the body 18 and / or the catch tray 44 is not properly seated within the body 18 of the shell 16. In one example, the system 10 may be configured so that when the lid 20 is removed from the body 18, the controller does not power the motor 13 and therefore prevents the grinding element from operating.

[0025] The shell 16 is further constructed such that an inlet opening is formed within the lid 20. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the shell 16 is further constructed such that an outlet opening is present within the body 18 through which bone fragments fall into the catch tray 44. In some examples of these embodiments of the present disclosure, the outlet opening is at least partially aligned with the inlet opening. In some examples of the present disclosure, the shell 16 includes a function that facilitates the releasable coupling of the grinding module 14 to a base module 12 that drives the grinding module. In these examples of the present disclosure, the grinding element is formed having a function that releasably couples the grinding element to a drive spindle that acts on the grinding element. Often, these drive function parts of the grinding element that releasably couple the grinding element to the drive spindle are accessible through a specific opening in the shell 16, which exists for one particular purpose. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the grinding element is configured to rotate within the shell 16. In some examples of this embodiment of the present disclosure, a shaft transmits the rotational motion of the drive spindle to the grinding element in order to rotate the grinding element. In these examples of the present disclosure, the shaft has two functions. In addition to serving as a drive link, the shaft also functions as a handle to grasp when bone fragments attached to the grinding element are being retrieved. The base module 12 comprises a base shell. The base shell houses many of the components of the base module 12. The base shell has a top surface. Inside the base shell is a motor 13. Inside the base shell is also a drive spindle. The drive spindle has a head that penetrates an opening in the top surface of the base shell. The motor 13 drives the drive spindle. When the grinding module 14 is attached to the base module 12, the drive spindle engages with the grinding element. The rotation of the drive spindle also causes the grinding element to rotate. The base module 12 may comprise several tabs (two tabs are shown in Figure 1). The tabs may be movably attached to the base shell and may extend outward from the base shell. The link mechanism assembly can be configured to extend and retract tabs into multiple openings on the body 18 of the grinding module 14.The grinding module 14 is positioned on or fitted onto the upper surface of the base module 12, and by using a link mechanism assembly, multiple tabs can be engaged with or disengaged from multiple openings. When the tabs are engaged with the openings, the base module 12 holds the grinding module 14 in a stationary and releasable manner relative to the base module 12. When the tabs are disengaged from the openings, the grinding module 14 can be released from the base module 12. It should be understood that the grinding module 14 can be removably attached (i.e., releasably coupled) to the base module 12 using various mechanisms known to those skilled in the mechanical art.

[0026] A control button is also shown as something that is mounted on the base shell. The control button is part of the control circuit. The control circuit may also include a sensor located below the top surface within the base shell. The sensor is configured to detect an indicator. In one example, the sensor is a Hall-effect sensor. The state of the control button and the signal output by the sensor are applied to a controller also located within the base shell. The controller is connected to both the power supply and the motor 13. The controller is configured to regulate the application of current to the motor 13 to operate the motor 13. In many configurations of system 10, the controller is configured to operate the motor 13 only for the duration that the button is pressed.

[0027] The applicant's Patent Cooperation Treaty ("PCT") applications No. PCT / US2008 / 082348 (International Publication No. 2009061728), PCT / US2010 / 055646 (International Publication No. 2011057088), PCT / US2012 / 072160 (International Publication No. 2013102134), PCT / US2016 / 044386 (International Publication No. 2017019827), PCT / US2018 / 034700 (International Publication No. 2018218173), and PCT / US2019 / 068660 (International Publication No. 2020139995) are incorporated herein by reference. The above patent application describes an electric system for converting aggregate into skewers, comprising a grinding module, a pre-treatment module, and a base module. The grinding module 14 comprises a body 18 to which a lid 20 is removably attached, as shown in Figure 1. The body 18 and lid 20 together form the shell 16 of the grinding module 14. The shell 16 is adapted to be removably attached to the base module 12. The shell 16 has an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the grinding module 14 and an outlet opening through which skewers are discharged from the grinding module 14. A grinding element is movably positioned within the shell 16 between the inlet opening and the outlet opening to convert aggregate into skewers. The grinding element includes a functional part for removably attaching the grinding element to a motor 13, so that the grinding element operates when the motor 13 is operated. The body 18 of the grinding element 14 is adapted to be removably attached to the base module 12. The body 18 may include a rim, as shown in Figure 1. The rim is dimensioned to seat around the outer circumference of the upper surface of the base module 12. The rim is formed with multiple openings. When the grinding module 14 is seated on the upper surface of the base module 12, the body 18 can attach and secure the grinding module 14 to the base module 12 by having each of the multiple tabs integrated with the base module 12 seat in and pass through each of the multiple openings in the rim.In other words, the main body 18 has a rim with multiple openings and is sized to seat around the outer circumference of the upper surface of the base module 12. When seated, the multiple tabs on the base module 12 penetrate the multiple openings and integrate with the multiple openings, attaching the crushing module 14 to the base module 12.

[0028] The body 18 of the grinding module 14 may have a concave surface that may be generally circular. The concave surface has one (or, in some examples, two) openings. The first opening is concentric with the center of the concave surface, is circular, and is configured to receive the head of the drive spindle. If a second opening is included, the second opening may first be the periphery of the concave surface, be circular, and be configured to receive rotational energy for operating various internal functional parts that may be contained within the grinding module 14 or cleaning module. The body 18 of the grinding module 14 also has an outlet opening. The outlet opening extends inward from the side wall of the body 18. The body 18 may be formed with two stepped portions extending radially around the opening in the upper panel of the body 18. The body 18 may be further formed to have a plurality of notches extending inward from the periphery of the upper panel defining the opening. In some examples, the body 18 may be further formed to have a tubular sleeve extending downward from the concave panel. More specifically, the sleeve extends downward from the concave panel so as to extend around the portion of the panel that defines the periphery of the opening. The system 10 is designed so that the opening and the sleeve are coaxial with the drive spindle when the grinding module 14 is attached to the base module 12.

[0029] The main body 18 also includes a lid 20. The lid 20 is removably attached to the main body 18. The lid 20 has an inlet opening in the shell 16. The main body 18 and the lid 20 together are configured to allow access to the grinding element by removing the lid 20 from the main body 18. The grinding element is removably attached to the main body 18 of the shell 16, as described in detail below.

[0030] The lid 20 is molded to have a disc-shaped foundation defining its inner surface. In some examples, the foundation is dome-shaped. The foundation of the lid 20 is molded to fit into the opening. More specifically, the outer circumference of the foundation of the lid 20 is dimensioned to seat on a stepped portion. The foundation comprises one or more tabs projecting radially outward from the cylindrical sidewall of the foundation. The one or more tabs are positioned and dimensioned such that, when the foundation of the lid 20 is positioned and rotated in the opening of the body 18, each tab rotates into its respective notch in the body 18 and integrates with the notch, thereby attaching the lid 20 to the body 18. For example, in some examples, three tabs project radially outward from the cylindrical sidewall of the foundation. The tabs are positioned and dimensioned such that, when the foundation is seated in the opening, each tab can seat into a separate notch and rotate within it. In other words, the components forming the system 10 are molded so that the base can rotate toward the opening, and as the lid 20 rotates, the tab can rotate into the notch and integrate with the notch. The base includes one or more rings extending downward from the inner surface of the base. One of the one or more rings is concentric with the base and positioned on the outer circumference of the base, and when fitted to the body 18, it sits in contact with a step on the body 18. The base is also molded to have an entrance opening. The base is formed so that when the lid 20 is attached to the body 18, the entrance opening aligns with the opening and is positioned above the opening.

[0031] The lid 20 also includes a supply sleeve. The supply sleeve extends upward from the outer surface of the base of the lid 20 and surrounds the entrance opening. An impact plate (not shown) is rigidly attached to the lid 20. The components forming the grinding module 14 are constructed such that the impact plate has a surface located directly below the periphery of the entrance opening in the base of the lid 20. The grinding element of the grinding module 14 includes a circular, flat cutting disc. Other shapes of the grinding element, i.e., non-circular shapes, are also conceivable. Around the center of the cutting disc are four openings formed to be spaced at equal angles apart. The cutting disc includes a functional section for converting aggregate into bone fragments. That is, the cutting disc is further formed to have a plurality of cutting scallops. The cutting disc has a through hole integrated with each cutting scallop and aligned with it in the longitudinal axial direction. More specifically, the cutting disc is formed such that each cutting scallop extends above the flat upper surface of the grinding element. The scallops are milled to define the cutting edges. Each cutting edge partially defines the periphery of an adjacent opening. The shaft is also part of the grinding element and extends downward from the center of the cutting disc. In a typical example, the shaft is permanently attached to the cutting disc. The shaft is configured to connect to the cutting disc and the drive spindle and to remain attached to the cutting disc and held in place when the grinding element is removed from the body 18. Thus, the shaft is formed to extend from the cutting disc and have a functional section that detachably connects the grinding element to the motor 13 of the base module 12.

[0032] The shaft is generally cylindrical. The shaft is formed to have a head. The shaft head has a diameter that allows the head to seat and rotate within a sleeve that is integrated with the body 18. A cylindrical stem extends below the head. The stem has a smaller diameter than the head. The lower end of the stem is formed to face the drive spindle and to have a functional part that releasably engages with the spindle. In one example, the stem has one or more notches that extend upward from the lower surface of the stem and are radially outward from the center of the stem, and the one or more notches are configured to engage with one or more complementary teeth on the surface of the drive spindle of the base module 12, so that when the drive spindle rotates, the grinding element also rotates.

[0033] A plunger, visible throughout the drawing, can be slidably mounted within the supply sleeve of the lid 20. The plunger is formed to have a head and an upper plate from which a rod extends. The rod is dimensioned to slidably fit within the supply sleeve. The upper plate is dimensioned to have an area larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the central cavity of the supply sleeve. Thus, the upper plate limits the extent to which the plunger and rod can be pushed into the supply sleeve and inlet opening.

[0034] The catch tray 44 is slidably positioned within an opening formed in the main body 18 of the crushing module 14. That is, the catch tray 44 is removablely mounted adjacent to the outlet opening and receives the bone fragments discharged through the outlet opening.

[0035] In many examples, the shell 16 includes a locking element. The locking element is movably mounted on the body 18 and is configured to engage with the lid 20 when the shell 16 is detachably mounted on the base module 12. The locking element is movable between a locked position in which the locking element is positioned relative to the lid 20 so as not to remove the lid 20 from the body 18, and a disengaged position in which the locking element is positioned relative to the lid 20 so as to remove the lid 20 from the body 18.

[0036] The locking element has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, defining a longitudinal axis. The locking element may include locking shafts 124, 224, 324 as shown in Figures 2 to 6, or a locking arm 424 as shown in Figure 7. The locking shafts 124, 224, 324 may have various cross-sectional profiles, including, but not limited to, oval (e.g., round), triangular, and rectangular (e.g., square) cross-sectional profiles. The locking element may be coupled to a biasing element, such as a spring. In some examples, the biasing element is configured to push the locking element, such as a locking shaft, in a first direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element (e.g., towards the base module 12). In other examples, the biasing element is configured to push the locking element, such as a locking shaft, in a second direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element (e.g., away from the base module 12). In some such examples, the biasing element is adjacent to the locking element, while in other such examples, the biasing element is positioned around the outer circumference of the locking element. The locking element may have a biasing surface that works in cooperation with the biasing element and the body to bias the locking element in a first or second direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element. In some examples, the biasing surface is located at the first end of the locking element. In other examples, the biasing surface is located at the second end of the locking element.

[0037] Furthermore, the main body 18 defines a chamber, and the locking element is movably positioned within the chamber. In some examples, the chamber is defined by a locking sleeve, and the locking element and biasing element are positioned within the chamber of the locking sleeve. In some examples, the locking element and biasing element are positioned within the locking sleeve, and the biasing element is positioned adjacent to the locking element within the locking sleeve. For example, the biasing element can be positioned adjacent to and parallel to the locking element. In some such examples, the biasing element cooperates with a biasing surface at the first end of the locking element to bias the locking element away from the lid along the longitudinal axis defined by the locking element.

[0038] Furthermore, the locking element works with the lid 20 to lock the lid 20 in place when the grinding module 14 is attached to the base module 12. In some examples, the lid 20 defines a locking recess. In some examples, the lid 20 is provided with a locking tab. In some such examples, the locking tab defines a locking recess, and the locking element engages with the locking recess in the locked position. In other examples, the locking element in the locked position engages with the tab (e.g., the side of the locking tab) to prevent the lid 20 from rotating and being removed.

[0039] Nevertheless, the lid 20 defines a locking recess, and the locking element is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position, the locking element is not received within the locking recess in the lid 20, and the lid 20 can be removed from the body 18 (for example, by rotation). In the locked position, the locking element is received within the locking recess in the lid 20, and the locking element prevents the lid 20 from being removed from the body 18 (by preventing rotation).

[0040] In an example where the chamber is defined by a locking sleeve and the locking element is positioned within the locking sleeve, the biasing element can be configured to longitudinally push the first end of the locking element so as to pass through the first end of the locking sleeve. Furthermore, in some examples, the shell 16 can define a lower surface facing the lid 20, and the biasing element can be further configured to longitudinally push the first end of the locking element so as to pass through the lower surface of the shell 16. In such examples, when the grinding module 14 is not attached to the base module 12, the biasing element is configured to push the locking element to the unlocked position so as to allow the lid 20 to be removed from the body 18. When the grinding module 14 is attached to the base module 12, the base module 12 is configured to push the locking element to the locked position so as to prevent the lid 20 from being removed from the body 18. This example, and other examples in which the base module is molded to push the locking element into the locking recess, may be referred to as a passive locking configuration. This is because the attachment of the crushing module 14 to the base module 12 pushes the locking element into the locked position, preventing the lid 20 from being removed from the body 18, and when the crushing module 14 is removed, the lid 20 automatically returns to the unlocked position.

[0041] In other examples, the locking element is provided with a tab, and a force can be applied to the tab to release the locking element from the locking recess. For example, referring here to Figures 2 and 3, the locking element 124 is provided with a tab 138, and when the grinding module 114 is removed from the base module 12, a downward force is applied to the tab 138, allowing the locking element 124 to be released from the locking recess 134, thereby allowing the lid 120 to be removed from the grinding module 114. Alternatively, referring here to Figures 4 and 5, the locking element 224 is provided with a tab 238, and when the grinding module 214 is removed from the base module 12, an upward force is applied to the tab 238, allowing the locking element 224 to be released from the locking recess 234, thereby allowing the lid 220 to be removed from the grinding module 214. These examples may be referred to as having an active locking configuration. This is because, in order to move the locking element 224 to the unlocked position so that it exits the locking recess 234 and allow the lid 220 to be removed from the body 218, the crushing module 214 must first be separated from the base module 12, and then force must be applied to the locking element 224. In these active locking configurations, even when the locking elements 124 and 224 are biased into the locking recesses 134 and 234 and removed from the base module 12, force must be applied to the tabs 138 and 238 to allow the lids 120 and 220 to be removed. Once the lids 120 and 220 are removed from the body 118 and 218, the crushing elements 122 and 222 can be accessed to collect bone fragments attached to them, or the crushing elements 122 and 222 can be removed from the shell 16.

[0042] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the crushing module 114 that converts aggregate into bone fragments comprises a locking element 124 (locking shaft) and a biasing element 130. The biasing element 130 is located along the longitudinal axis A of the locking element 124. L-1The biasing element 130 is configured to push the locking element in a second direction along the direction. In this example, the biasing element 130 is positioned around the outer circumference of the locking element 124. The body 118 includes a sleeve 132, which defines a chamber in which the locking element 124 and the biasing element 130 are movably positioned within the sleeve 132. In this example, the locking element 124 includes a tab 138 located at a first end 126 of the locking element 124 and a foot 140 at a second end 128, which is configured to be received in a locking recess 134 of the lid 120. By applying force to the tab 138 (pulling the tab 138 down in the first direction), the foot 140 can be released from the locking recess 134, moving the locking element 124 from the locked position to the unlocked position, which then allows the lid 120 to be removed from the body 118. Figure 2 shows the locking element 124 in the locked position. In other words, the foot portion 140 of the locking element 124 is received in the locking recess 134 in the lid 120, and the locking element 124 prevents the lid 120 from rotating and from being removed from the body 118. Figure 3 shows the locking element 124 in the unlocked position. In other words, the foot portion 140 of the locking element 124 is released when the tab 138 is pulled down (F 1-1 ) When this happens, the lid 120 is not received in the locking recess 134, and the lid 120 can be removed from the main body 118 by rotation (F 2-1 ).

[0043] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the crushing module 214 that converts aggregate into bone fragments consists of a locking element 224 (locking shaft) and the longitudinal axis A of the locking element 224. L-2It includes a biasing element 230 configured to push the locking element 224 in a first direction along [a certain path]. In this example, the biasing element 230 is disposed around the outer periphery of the locking element 224. The main body 218 includes a locking sleeve 232 that defines a chamber. The locking element 224 and the biasing element 230 are movably disposed within the locking sleeve 232. In this example, the locking element 224 includes a tab 238 located at a first end 226 of the locking element 224 and a foot portion 240 configured to be received within a locking recess 234 in the lid 220 at a second end 228. By applying a force (e.g., a pushing force) to the tab 238, the foot portion 240 can be removed from the locking recess 234, moving the locking element 224 from the locked position to the unlocked position, thereby enabling the subsequent removal of the lid 220 from the main body 218. Figure 4 shows the locking element 224 in the locked position. The locking recess 234 in this example has a channel portion where the locking element 224 (locking shaft) is disposed and a recess on the upper surface of the lid 220. When the tab 238 is pushed, the locking element 224 moves in a second direction along the longitudinal axis A L-2 within the channel portion, and the foot portion 240 at the second end 228 of the locking element 224 is lifted out of the recess of the lid 220, enabling the rotation and removal of the lid 220. That is, the foot portion 240 of the locking element 224 is received within the locking recess 234 in the lid 220, and the locking element 224 prevents the removal of the lid 220 from the main body 218. Figure 5 shows the locking element 224 in the unlocked position. That is, the foot portion 240 of the locking element 224 is not received within the locking recess 234 in the lid 220 when the tab 238 is pulled down (F 1-2 ), and the lid 220 can be removed by rotation from the main body 218 (F 2-2 ).

[0044] Referring to Figure 6, the crushing module 314 for converting aggregate into bone fragments comprises a main body 318, a lid 320, a catch tray 344, and a locking element 324. The locking element 324 (a locking arm shown by dashed lines) has a first end 326 and a second end 328 and is rotatably mounted to the main body 318. In this example, the lid 320 defines a locking recess 334. Furthermore, the locking element 324 comprises a foot 340 configured at the second end 328 to be received by the locking recess 334 in the lid 320, a mounting element 342, and optionally a biasing element. In some examples, the locking element 324 is biased into the locking recess 334 by the biasing element. In other examples, the foot 340 and the locking recess 334 are interference-type fit. The mounting element 342 engages with the main body 318 and the locking element 324 and acts as a pivot point. In some examples, the biasing element can be positioned adjacent to the mounting element 342. The locking element 324 is biased to the locking position, and a force F is applied to the first end 326 of the locking element 324. 1-3 When this force is applied, the locking element 324 rotates from the locked position to the unlocked position, and the force F 2-3 The application of force and rotation of the lid 320 are made possible, and the lid 320 is removed from the body 318. When the crushing module 314 is attached to the base module 312, the contact element 313 on the base module 312 (shown by dashed lines, the contact element of the locking element 324) prevents the locking element 324 from pivoting to the unlocked position and subsequently removing the lid 320 from the body 318. When the crushing module 314 is removed from the base module 312, force F is applied to the tab 338 at the first end 326 of the locking element 324 facing the foot 340. 1-3 This allows force F to be applied, thereby preventing the foot portion 340 from being received within the locking recess 334 in the lid 320. 2-3 The lid 320 can be removed from the main body 318 by rotation via this mechanism.

[0045] The crushing module 314 in Figure 6 has an active locking configuration. This is because, in order to move the locking element 324 out of the locking recess 334 to the unlocked position and allow the lid 320 to be removed from the main body 318, the crushing module 314 must first be separated from the base module 312, and then force F 2-3 This is because force must be applied to the locking element 324. In this active locking configuration, the locking element 324 is biased into the locking recess 334 and, even when detached from the base module 312, force must be applied to the tab 338 to allow the lid 320 to be removed. Although the illustrated grinding module 314 has an active locking configuration, it should be understood that this grinding module can be configured to have a passive locking mechanism by utilizing a biasing element that biases the second end 328 of the locking element 324 to exit the locking recess 334.

[0046] The grinding modules 114, 214, 314 illustrated in Figures 2 to 6 and 13 to 21 described herein each comprise a lid 120, 220, 320, 820 defining an inner surface, an outer surface, a side wall, and one or more tabs projecting radially outward from the side wall. The one or more tabs are positioned and sized so that when the lids 120, 220, 320, 820 are positioned and rotated on the bodies 118, 218, 318, 818, each tab rotates into its respective notch in the bodies 118, 218, 318, 818, thereby mounting the lids 120, 220, 320, 820 on the bodies 118, 218, 318. These examples prevent the rotation of lids 120, 220, 320, and 820 under certain conditions, and prevent the removal of lids 120, 220, 320, and 820 from the main bodies 118, 218, 318, and 818.

[0047] Referring to the grinding module 414 in Figure 7 and the grinding module 514 in Figure 8, the catch trays 444 and 544 are designed to prevent the lids 420 and 520 from being removed by rotation. These particular grinding modules 414 and 514 differ from the grinding modules in Figures 2 to 6 in that when the catch trays 444 and 544 are inserted into the grinding modules 414 and 514, the catch trays 444 and 544 prevent the movement of the lids 420 and 520. In other words, once the catch trays 444 and 544 are properly installed, the lids 420 and 520 cannot be removed. Furthermore, the grinding module 414 in Figure 7 and the grinding module 514 in Figure 8 utilize a detection system to ensure that the catch trays 444 and 544 are properly installed in the correct positions within the grinding modules 414 and 514. When the catch trays 444 and 544 are properly positioned within the grinding modules 414 and 514, the detection system works with the controller to enable the motor 13 to operate, and consequently, the grinding elements. When the catch trays 444 and 544 are not properly positioned within the grinding modules 414 and 514, the detection system works with the controller to prevent the motor 13 and the grinding elements from operating. Therefore, the motor 13 can only be operated when the catch trays 444 and 544 are properly positioned within the grinding modules 414 and 514, and when the catch trays are properly positioned, the lids 420 and 520 cannot be removed from the shell bodies 418 and 518 to access the grinding elements. These grinding modules 414 and 514 do not allow the lids 420 and 520 to be removed so that the user cannot operate the grinding elements with the lids 420 and 520 removed from the grinding modules 414 and 514.

[0048] The systems in Figures 7 and 8 utilize sensors mounted on a base module 12. The sensors monitor the shell for the presence or absence of catch trays 444, 544 and are adapted to generate sensor signals that vary depending on the presence or absence of the catch trays 444, 544. A controller within the base module 12 is configured to adjust the operation of the drive assembly based on the sensor signals. If the sensor signals indicate the absence of catch trays 444, 544, the controller prohibits the operation of the grinding element. In some non-limiting examples, a sensor within the base module 12 (e.g., a Hall effect sensor) is configured to monitor the presence of a magnetic field, and magnets are attached to the catch trays 444, 544. If the catch trays 444, 544 are properly mounted within the shell bodies 418, 518 and the bodies 418, 518 are seated within the base module 12, the magnets are positioned above the sensors. In other examples, other signal generators and sensors known in the art are utilized. In some examples, when the catch trays 444, 544 are properly installed within the crushing modules 414, 514, the controller activates a light-emitting diode (LED) near the switch to provide a visual indication that the catch trays 444, 544 are installed within the base module 12.

[0049] Referring now to the grinding module 414 in Figure 7, the catch tray 444 has a base from which a panel extends upward. A tab-shaped locking element 424 is positioned on one panel or combination of panels (shown on the side panel in Figure 7) and extends upward from there. A channel 460 in the body 418 accommodates the locking element 424 to allow insertion and mounting of the catch tray 444 into the base module 12. When the catch tray 444 is mounted in the grinding module 414, the catch tray 444 cooperates with a slot 462 on the lid 420 to prevent the lid 420 from rotating and being removed. That is, the locking element 424 of the catch tray 444 is received in the slot 462 in the lid 420, and the locking element 424 prevents the lid 420 from being removed from the body 418. However, referring again to Figure 7, the catch tray 444 is subjected to force F 1-4 If the crushing module 414 is removed by this and the locking element 424 is not received in the slot 462 in the lid 420, then force F 2-4 The lid 420 can be removed from the main body 418 by rotation via the locking element 424, allowing access to the inside of the grinding module 414, but the motor cannot be operated. Therefore, in order to operate the motor 13, the catch tray 444 must be properly installed inside the grinding module 414, and when the catch tray 444 is installed inside the grinding module 414, the locking element 424 prevents the rotation and removal of the lid 420 and subsequent access to the grinding elements and interior of the grinding module 414.

[0050] Referring here to Figure 8, the lid 520 is equipped with a retainer 586 having a stop surface 588 (shown by dashed line). When the lid 520 is attached to the grinding module 514 and the catch tray 544 is attached inside the grinding module 514, the stop surface 588 is configured to cooperate with the back surface on the back panel 558 of the catch tray 544 to prevent the lid 520 from rotating and being removed from the grinding module 514. When the catch tray 544 is properly positioned inside the grinding module 514, the detection system cooperates with the controller to prevent the lid 520 from being removed from the body 518 (because rotation of the lid 520 is prevented) while allowing the motor 13 and grinding elements to operate. Otherwise, i.e., when the catch tray 544 is not properly positioned, the lid 520 can be removed from the body 518, but the detection system cooperates with the controller to prevent the motor 13 and grinding elements from operating. That is, when the catch tray 544 is subjected to force F 1-5 If the catch tray 544 is removed from the crushing module 514 and is not positioned so that its back surface on the rear panel 558 contacts the stop surface 588 to prevent the lid 520 from rotating, then force F 2-5 The lid 520 can be removed from the main body 518 by rotation via the lid 520, allowing access to the inside of the grinding module 514, but the motor cannot be operated. Therefore, the motor 13 can only be operated if the catch tray 544 is properly in place within the grinding module 514, and if the catch tray is properly in place, the lid 520 cannot be removed to access the grinding elements.

[0051] The grinding module 614 shown in Figures 9 to 11 comprises a shell having a body 618 and a lid 620, and a catch tray 644. The catch tray 644 shown in Figures 10 and 11 has a base 646 from which a panel 648 extends upward. The panel 648 includes a rear panel 658 having a back surface. A handle 652 protrudes outward from the front panel 654. The front panel 654 is the panel visible when the catch tray 644 is positioned inside the grinding module 614. The handle 652 functions as the part of the catch tray 644 that the user grasps to insert the catch tray 644 into the grinding module 614 and remove the catch tray 644 from the grinding module 614. Once the catch tray 644 is installed inside the grinding module 614, various mechanisms can be used to further secure or hold the catch tray 644 inside the grinding module 614.

[0052] In some examples, the grinding module 614 includes a blade holder 664. The blade holder 664 can be removed from the grinding module, thereby allowing for the collection of residual bone remaining in the grinding module 614 and on the grinding element 622 after use. Thus, the blade holder 664 provides a user-friendly configuration for collecting the ground residual bone fragments, enabling efficiency and optimization of the bone fragment yield. In Figures 9 to 11, the blade holder 664 includes a circular upper tray 666 and a central sleeve 668. The blade holder 664 is removably mounted to the shell body 618. The central sleeve 668 is circular and concentric with the center of the upper tray 666. The central sleeve 668 extends downward from the upper tray 666. The system 10 is designed so that the opening and the central sleeve 668 are coaxial with the drive spindle when the grinding module 614 is mounted on the base module 12. Furthermore, the upper tray 666 comprises a top surface 670 having a cavity 676 inside, and side walls 672 positioned around the outer circumference of the top surface 670 and extending outward therefrom. During the grinding process, the ground bone fragments pass through the cavity 676 and enter the catch tray 644. The side walls 672 are provided with one or more tabs projecting radially outward from the side walls 672. The one or more tabs 674 are positioned and sized so that when the blade holder 664 is positioned and rotated within the body 618, each of the tabs 674 rotates outward from its respective notch (not shown) within the body 618, thereby removing the blade holder 664 and facilitating easy access to residual bone fragments that may be placed on the top surface 670 and grinding element 622 of the upper tray 666.

[0053] In other words, the blade holder 664 is located inside the shell body 618 and is removablely attached to the body 618. The central sleeve 668 acts as a handle, and when the grinding module 614 is removed from the base module, the user can hold the grinding element 622 inside the grinding module 614 by rotating the blade holder 664 in a first direction, thereby rotatably engaging each of the one or more tabs 674 in each of the corresponding notches in the body. Furthermore, by rotating the central sleeve 668 of the blade holder 664 in a second direction opposite to the first direction, each of the one or more tabs 674 in each of the corresponding notches in the body can be rotatably engaged and disengaged, allowing for subsequent removal of the blade holder 664 from the body and facilitating easy access to residual bone fragments that may be placed on the upper surface 670 of the upper tray 666 and the grinding element 622.

[0054] The blade holder 664 is movably mounted to the shell and configured to move from an engaged position to a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the blade holder 664 cooperates with the main body 618 to hold the grinding element 622 within the shell, thereby configuring the grinding module 614 to receive power from the motor when attached to the base module. In the disengaged position, the blade holder 664 and grinding element 622 can be removed from the grinding module 614, thereby allowing residual bone fragments to be collected from the blade holder 664 and grinding element 622 after the grinding process to increase the bone fragment yield. Referring here to Figure 9, the removal of the blade holder 664 is shown. Arrow F 1-6 Then, a rotational force is applied, causing tab 674 to engage and disengage from the notch, and arrow F 2-6 Next, remove the blade holder 664 from the crushing module 614.

[0055] In many examples, at least one of the shell 16, body 18, and lid 20 is transparent. The transparent element allows the user to observe the grinding process while using the system 10, and may also allow them to observe any residual bone fragments that may be contained within the grinding module 14 when the grinding process is complete.

[0056] This disclosure also includes a method for converting aggregate into bone fragments. The first exemplary method 700 can be used with the exemplary system and exemplary base module and grinding module described herein. The system of this disclosure may be ready for use by connecting the base module to a power source. The grinding module is fitted onto the top surface of the base module. The grinding module is held in a stationary and releaseable position relative to the base module by the seating of tabs in the opening. Before, during, or after the step of attaching the grinding module to the base module, the lid is attached to the grinding module and the locking elements of the grinding module are moved to a locking position relative to the lid to prevent the lid from being removed from the body. In one example, with the lid attached to the grinding module and the locking elements of the grinding module in the locking position, the grinding module is attached to the base module. Once the grinding module is attached, the lid and catch tray are checked to ensure that they are properly attached and seated. Once the lid and catch tray are properly attached in place, the system of this disclosure is ready for use.

[0057] Referring here to Figure 12, the method 700 includes the steps of: attaching a grinding module to a base module, which, before, during, or after the step of attaching the grinding module to the base module, attaching a lid to the grinding module and moving the locking elements of the grinding module to a locking position relative to the lid so as to prevent the lid from being removed from the body; introducing aggregate into the shell through an inlet opening; operating the grinding elements to convert the aggregate into bone fragments and discharging the bone fragments through an outlet opening; removing the grinding module from the base module; moving the locking elements to an unlocked position to allow the lid to be removed from the body; and removing the lid from the body of the shell of the grinding module.

[0058] In some examples, the system and / or grinding module have a passive locking configuration, because the attachment of the grinding module to the base module pushes a locking element (e.g., a locking shaft) into a locked position, preventing the lid from being removed from the body. In such a manner, step 702 of attaching the grinding module to the base module pushes the locking element into an engaged state with the lid.

[0059] In other examples, the system and / or grinding module have an active locking configuration. This is because, in order to move the locking element to the unlocked position and enable the removal of the lid from the body, the grinding module must first be separated from the base module and then a force must be applied to the locking element (e.g., the locking shaft). In some such methods, step 710, which moves the locking element to the unlocked position and enables the removal of the lid from the body, further includes, after the step of removing the grinding module from the base module, applying a force to the locking element to disengage the locking element from the lid.

[0060] Following step 708 of removing the grinding module from the base module, method 700 may further include the step of removing the blade holder. In some examples, a rotational force is applied to disengage the blade holder from the shell and remove the blade holder from the grinding module. The blade holder facilitates easy access to residual bone fragments that may be placed on the top surface of the tray and on the grinding element.

[0061] Method 700 may further include the step of removing the lid and / or blade holder from the body and collecting residual bone fragments from the inner surface of the body and the grinding element. Method 700 may further include the step of removing the grinding element from the grinding module and collecting residual aggregate and / or bone fragments from the surface of the grinding element.

[0062] The System 10 and Method 700 of this Disclosure provide means for using bone fragments that are not normally accessible for use during formation. This feature also reduces the overall size of bone material that the practitioner needs to harvest from the patient to supply the volume of bone fragments required for the procedure. This reduction in the volume of bone material harvested also serves to reduce the trauma suffered by the patient from the need to harvest bone fragments.

[0063] Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of another example of a modular system 810 for converting aggregate into pulp, comprising a base module 812 and a crushing module 814. Figures 13 to 21 provide various perspective views of the crushing module 814. The crushing module 814 comprises a shell 816 adapted to be removablely attached to a base module 812 comprising a motor 813. The shell 816 defines an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the shell 816 (the inlet opening is not shown as it is located at the base of the supply sleeve 930 on the lid 820) and, in this example, an outlet opening 928 through which pulp is discharged from the shell 816 to a catch tray 844. The shell 816 comprises a body 818, a crushing element 822, a lid 820, and a locking element 824. The crushing element 822, which converts aggregate into pulp, is movably positioned within the shell 816. The lid 820 is molded to be removablely attached to the body 818 so that residual bone fragments can be removed from the crushing element 822. The locking element 824 is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position, the locking element 824 is positioned relative to the lid 820 so that the lid 820 can be removed from the body 818. In the locked position, the locking element 824 is positioned relative to the lid 820 so that the lid 820 cannot be removed from the body 818.

[0064] Figure 14 is a separated side view of the crushing module 814 of the modular system for converting aggregate shown in Figure 13. In this example, the crushing module 814 includes a catch tray 844. The catch tray 844 is located within an opening 900 in the main body 818 (not visible in Figure 13 because the catch tray 844 is located within the opening, but visible in Figure 16). The catch tray 844 shown in the separated view of Figure 16 includes a base 846 from which a panel 848 extends upward. The panel 848 includes a back panel 858 having a back surface. A handle 852 protrudes outward from the front panel 854. The front panel 854 is the panel visible when the catch tray 844 is located inside the crushing module 814, as shown in Figure 14. The handle 852 functions as the part of the catch tray 844 that the user grasps to insert the catch tray 844 into the crushing module 814 and to remove the catch tray 844 from the crushing module 814. Once the catch tray 844 is installed inside the grinding module 814, various mechanisms can be used to further secure or hold the catch tray 844 inside the grinding module 814.

[0065] In the example shown in Figures 13 to 21, the main body 818 of the shell 816 further comprises a base plate 902 having an upper surface 904, a lower surface 906, and an outer wall 910 extending around the periphery of the lower surface 906. The upper surface 904 of the base plate 902 defines a recess 912 having a floor portion 914, and the opening 900 and the recess 912 are configured to receive a catch tray 844. The upper surface 904 of the base plate 902 is shown in Figure 16, while the lower surface 906 and outer wall 910 of the base plate 902 are shown in Figure 15. The base plate 902 includes a first retaining element 916 configured to engage with a corresponding retaining element on the catch tray 844 in order to bias the catch tray 844 toward the rear wall 918 of the recess 912 and attach the catch tray 844 to the shell 816. In this example, the first retaining element 916 is a cut-out retention tab having a projection on the base portion 914 of the base plate 902, and the corresponding retaining element is a notch on the base portion 846 of the catch tray 844. The cut-out retention tab and notch may also be referred to as flexible detents. Of course, this configuration can be reversed, with the first retaining element 916 being a cut-out retention tab on the base portion 846 of the catch tray 844, and the corresponding retaining element being a notch on the base portion 914 of the base plate 902. Similarly, the cut-out retention tab can define a notch, and the second retaining element can be a projection.

[0066] Furthermore, in this particular example, the outer wall 910 of the base plate 902 defines an alignment guide 920. The alignment guide 920 is molded within the outer wall 910 to receive alignment teeth 922 on the base module 812 and is configured to align the grinding module 814 to the base module 812 and to facilitate the efficient and proper mounting of the grinding module 814 to the base module 812. In other words, the alignment guide 920 is molded to receive alignment teeth 922 on the base module 812 and is configured to align the grinding module 814 to the base module 812 and to facilitate the efficient and proper mounting of the grinding module 814 to the base module 812. Once the crushing module 814 and the base module 812 are aligned, the crushing module 814 is attached to the base module 812 when the multiple openings 958 on the outer wall 910 of the base plate 902 receive the corresponding tabs 960 on the base module 812.

[0067] Furthermore, in this example, the base plate 902 includes a magnet 924 mounted on the base plate 902. The magnet 924 is detectable by a sensor 890 in the base module 812 when the grinding module 814 is mounted on the base module 812. The sensor is positioned on the base module 812, monitors the presence of the magnet 924, and generates a sensor signal for the controller. The controller is configured to adjust the motor 813 based on the presence of the magnet 924. Of course, if the controller on the base module 812 indicates that the grinding module 814 is mounted on the base module 812, the controller can control the operation of the motor 813 to ensure optimal process parameters for bone grinding, such as speed (rpm) and processing time (seconds). Similarly, if the base module 812 detects that a different module, such as a pre-treatment module, is mounted on the base module 812, the controller can control the operation of the motor 813 to ensure optimal process parameters for bone cleaning, such as speed (rpm) and processing time (seconds). In some examples, the controller is configured to work with sensors to detect the installation of modules, such as the grinding module 814 or the pre-processing module, for safety purposes.

[0068] Referring now to Figure 14, a separated side view of the crushing module 814 of the modular system 810 for converting aggregate shown in Figure 13, the lid 820 of the crushing module 814 defines an inlet opening. The inlet opening is not visible because the supply sleeve 930 is positioned around the inlet opening. The supply sleeve 930 has an inner surface 932 and an outer surface 933 and is dimensioned to slidably receive a plunger 936. Referring now to Figure 16, the plunger 936 includes a second retaining element 934 configured to engage with a corresponding retaining element on the supply sleeve 930, thereby biasing the plunger 936 toward the inlet opening and engaging the plunger 936 into the supply sleeve 930. In this example, the second retaining element 934 is a notched retaining tab on the plunger 936, and the corresponding retaining element is a notch on the inner surface 932 of the supply sleeve 930. The notched retaining tab and notch may also be referred to as flexible retainers. Of course, this configuration can be reversed, with the second retaining element 934 being a notched retaining tab on the supply sleeve 930 and the corresponding retaining element being a notch on the plunger 936. Similarly, the notched retaining tab can define a notch, and the second retaining element can be a projection. In this example, the flexible retainer is located on the side of the plunger 936 opposite the locking recess 834, thereby biasing the plunger 936 toward the impact plate side of the shell 816, preventing aggregate from getting stuck between the opposing side of the plunger 936 and the inner surface 932 of the supply sleeve 930.

[0069] Referring to Figures 17 to 20, the locking element is indicated by 824. In this example, the locking element 824 is located along the longitudinal axis A L-3The locking element 824 is defined and has a control surface 838 at the first end 826 and a locking portion 840 at the second end 828. As best shown in Figure 17, a side view of the crushing module 814 with a transparent body 818, the body 818 defines a channel 938, and the locking element 824 is at least partially positioned within the channel 938. The locking element 824 is movably mounted on the body 818 and coupled to a biasing element 830. The biasing element 830 cooperates with the surface on the lid 820 and / or the body 818 to propel the locking element 824 along the longitudinal axis A L-3 It is biased in the first direction along the line.

[0070] In some examples, such as those previously illustrated, the biasing element 830 is positioned around the outer circumference of the locking element 824, the body 818 defines a chamber, and the locking element 824 is movably positioned within the chamber. The body 818 may further comprise an operating guide, such as a sleeve, and the locking element 824 is at least partially positioned within the operating guide.

[0071] In the example shown in Figure 17, the biasing element 830 is positioned adjacent to the locking element 824. In this example, the lid 820 defines a locking recess 834, and the locking element 824 is movable between a release position in which the locking portion 840 is not received in the locking recess 834 in the lid 820, allowing the lid 820 to be removed from the main body, and a locking position in which the locking portion 840 is received in the locking recess 834 in the lid 820, preventing the locking element 824 from removing the lid 820 from the main body 818. In this example, the locking portion 840 includes a foot configured to be received in the locking recess 834 in the lid 820. When the crushing module 814 is removed from the base module 812, a force F acts on the control surface 838. 1-7 This allows the foot portion to be removed from the locking recess 834, enabling the lid 820 to be rotated and removed from the main body 818.

[0072] As shown in Figure 17, the biasing surface 940 is positioned adjacent to the second end 828 of the locking element 824. The biasing surface 940 faces the control surface 838. The biasing surface includes a biasing element mount 942. In this example, the biasing element 830 is positioned around the biasing element mount 942 and abuts against the inner surface of the main body 818, along the longitudinal axis A toward the base module 812. L-3 The locking element 824 is biased in the first direction along this line.

[0073] Referring to the exploded view in Figure 16 and the diagram in Figure 17, the body 818 defines a channel 938 extending between the locking opening 944 and the control opening 946, and the locking element is at least partially positioned within the channel 938. In this example, the first end 826 of the locking element 824 is seated within the control opening 946, and the locking portion at the second end 828 of the locking element 824 is movably positioned within (through the locking opening 944). As previously mentioned, the body 818 of the shell 816 further comprises a base plate 902. As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the base plate 902 defines the control opening 946. The lower surface of the base plate includes a module retaining element 962. The module retaining element 962 extends from the lower surface 906 and engages with a boss 964 on the base module 812 to define a cavity for dissipating rotational energy when the grinding module 814 is in use. The module retaining element 962 may be formed from one or more ribs spaced apart from each other and partially defining the cavity. In this example, the module retaining element 962 includes two ribs that engage with the boss 964 on the base module 812. The module retaining element 962 engages with the boss 964 and is configured to help dissipate rotational energy when the bone mill is in use, i.e., when the grinding module 814 is on the base module 812 and operating.

[0074] Functionally, the locking element 824 has a control surface 838 located at the first end 826 of the locking element 824, and a locking portion 840 (e.g., a foot) at the second end 828 that is configured to be received within the locking recess 834 of the lid 820. Force F 1-7The force F acts on the control surface 838 to move the locking element 824, disengaging the locking portion 840 from the locking recess 834, moving the locking element 824 from the locked position to the unlocked position, and subsequently enabling the removal of the lid 820 from the main body 818. Figure 18 shows the locking element 824 in the locked position. That is, the locking portion 840 of the locking element 824 is received within the locking recess 834 in the lid 820, and the locking element 824 prevents the rotation of the lid 820 and the removal of the lid 820 from the main body 818. As shown in Figure 19, force F 1-7 When applied to the control surface 838, the locking element 824 moves along the longitudinal axis A within the channel 938. L-3 It moves in a second direction along the direction, and the locking portion 840 at the second end 828 of the locking element 824 is lifted out of the recess in the lid 820, and a rotational force F is applied to the lid 820. 2-7 This allows for the application of the power and removal of the lid 820. Figure 19 shows the locking element 824 in the unlocked position. That is, the locking portion 840 of the locking element 824 is pressed when the control surface 838 is pressed (F 1-7 ) When this happens, the lid 820 is not received in the locking recess 834, and the lid 820 can be removed from the main body 818 by rotation (F 2-7 ).

[0075] Referring here to Figure 21, the grinding module 814 comprises a lid 820 defining an inner surface 948, an outer surface 950, a side wall 952, and one or more tabs 954 projecting radially outward from the side wall 952. The one or more tabs 954 are positioned and sized such that when the lid 820 is positioned and rotated on the body 818, each of the tabs 954 rotates into its respective notch 956 in the body 818 to attach the lid 820 to the body 818. This example prevents the lid 820 from rotating under certain conditions and prevents the lid 820 from being removed from the body 818. In many of the examples herein, a locking element 824 is movable between a locked position in which the lid 820 cannot be removed from the body 818 and an unlocked position in which the lid 820 can be removed from the body 818. In the locked position, the locking element 824 prevents the lid 820 from rotating. It should be understood that the locking element 824 can be attached to the grinding module 814 as described herein, or to the base module 812 as assumed herein. In this example, force must be applied to the control surface 838 to enable the rotation and subsequent removal of the lid 820. However, when the grinding module 814 is attached to the base module 812, the control surface 838 is inaccessible for operation. In the example shown, the control surface 838 is accessible through the control opening 946 in the base plate 902 and cannot be touched by the user unless the grinding module 814 is separated from the base module 812. Once the grinding module 814 is separated / removed from the base module 812, the control surface 838 becomes accessible for operation to the unlocked position, allowing the lid 820 to be removed from the body 818 by rotation.

[0076] The removable lid 820 allows access to the grinding element 822. During use, the grinding element converts aggregate into bone fragments. Of course, the motor 813 in the base module 812 drives the grinding element 822 via a drive system. Within this drive system, the drive function unit removably couples the grinding element 822 to a drive spindle. The drive spindle is accessible through a specific opening in the shell, which exists for one particular purpose. In this example, a shaft 823 transmits the rotational motion of the drive spindle to the grinding element 822 in order to rotate the grinding element 822 within the shell 816. Referring here to Figures 20 and 21, the grinding element 822 is adapted to be removably mounted in the shell 816. Once the grinding module 814 is separated / removed from the base module 812 and the lid 820 is removed from the body 818, the grinding element 822 can be removed through an opening in the body 818 that was previously covered by the lid 820. Once the lid 820 is removed from the body 818, the grinding element 822 is removed from the shell 816. Using an appropriate tool such as a scraper, any bone fragments attached to the grinding element 822 are scraped off and placed into a catch tray 844 that holds the bone fragments. Furthermore, with the lid 820 removed and the grinding element 822 in place or removed, any bone fragments attached to the inner surface of the body 818 of the grinding module 814 can also be recovered for use. Typically, in this part of the procedure, the user can recover bone fragments that might otherwise have been discarded. In many examples of this disclosure, the shaft has two functions. In addition to serving as a drive link, the shaft functions as a handle to grasp when bone fragments attached to the grinding element are being recovered. Referring to Figure 20, when the lid 820 is removed from the main body 818, a force F3 is applied to the first end of the shaft, pushing the shaft 823, the grinding element 822, and the pin that holds the grinding element to the shaft 823 out of the drive sleeve. In Figure 21, the grinding element 822, the shaft 823, and the pin that holds the grinding element 822 to the shaft 823 are shown as having been removed from the main body 818 of the grinding module 814.Once removed, the user can use the shaft 823 as a handle to remove any remaining aggregate from the surface of the crushing element 822.

[0077] In this example, at least one of the shell 816, body 818, and lid 820 is partially or entirely transparent. The transparent element allows the user to observe the progress of the grinding process while using the system 10, and may also allow them to observe any residual aggregate that may be contained within the grinding module 814 when the grinding process is complete. For example, if residual aggregate is visible through the shell 816, body 818, and lid 820, the user can observe whether the aggregate has been completely ground after grinding and / or decide to remove the grinding element 822.

[0078] An alternative example of the grinding module 814 is configured to be used with a base module 812, which comprises a motor 813, a controller, and a support surface equipped with alignment teeth 922 and a sensor, with or without a locking element 824. In this example, the grinding module 814 comprises a shell 816 adapted to be removably mounted on the base module 812, a body 818, and a grinding element 822. The shell 816 includes an alignment guide 920 molded to receive the alignment teeth 922 on the base module 812, the alignment guide 920 being configured to align the grinding module 814 to the base module 812 and to facilitate efficient and proper mounting of the grinding module 814 to the base module 812. The body 818 has a magnet 924 attached to the body 818. In a typical example, the magnet 924 is attached to the lower surface 906 of the base plate 902. The magnet 924 is detectable by the sensor 890 when the grinding module 814 is attached to the base module 812. The sensor 890 is positioned on the base module 812, monitors the presence of the magnet 924, and generates a sensor signal for the controller. The controller is configured to adjust the motor 813 based on the presence of the magnet 924. Of course, in this example, the shell 816 may further comprise a lid 820 molded to be removablely attached to the body 818, and a locking element (as described in many of the examples above). For example, the locking element 824 may define a longitudinal axis, have a control surface 838 at a first end 826, and have a locking portion 840 at a second end 828. The locking element 824 may be positioned to engage with the lid 820 when the shell 816 is removablely attached to the base module 812. As described above, the locking element 824 can be moved between an unlocked position in which the locking element 824 is positioned relative to the lid 820 to allow the lid 820 to be removed from the main body 818, and a locked position in which the locking element 824 is positioned relative to the lid 820 to prevent the lid 820 from being removed from the main body 818. When the locking element 824 is in the locked position, the locking element 824 prevents the lid 820 from rotating and subsequently from being removed from the main body 818.

[0079] Of course, in this example, the locking element 824 can be exactly the same as described above, the lid 820 defines a locking recess 334, and the locking element 824 is movable between a release position in which the locking portion 840 is not received in the locking recess 834 in the lid and the lid 820 can be removed from the body 818, and a locking position in which the locking portion 840 is received in the locking recess 834 in the lid 820 and the locking element 824 prevents the lid 820 from being removed from the body 818. For example, the crushing module 814 may have feet configured to be received in the locking recess 834 in the lid 820. When a force is applied to the control surface 838, the feet are released from the locking recess 834, allowing the lid 820 to rotate and be removed from the body 818.

[0080] Referring to Figures 13 to 21, the modular system 810 for converting aggregate into bone fragments comprises a base module 812 equipped with a motor 813 and a crushing module 814. The crushing module 814 comprises a shell 816 adapted to be removablely attached to the base module 812. The shell comprises a body 818, a crushing element 822 movably disposed within the shell, and a lid 820 molded to be removablely attached to the body 818.

[0081] The system also includes a locking element 824. The locking element 824 has a control surface 838 and a locking portion 840. The locking element 824 is movable between a locked position in which the lid 820 cannot be removed and an unlocked position in which the lid 820 can be removed. It should be understood that the locking element 824 can be mounted on the grinding module 814 as described herein, or on the base module 812 as assumed herein. The locking element 824 can be a standalone element independent of the base module 812 and the grinding module 814. When the grinding module 814 is mounted on the base module 812, the control surface 838 is inaccessible for operation and the locking element 824 is in the locked position. When the grinding module 814 is not mounted on the base module 812, the control surface 838 is accessible for operation.

[0082] In a typical example of the modular system 810, a locking element 824 in a locked position prevents the lid 820 from rotating and subsequently from being removed from the body 818. As described above, the lid 820 typically defines a locking recess 834, and the locking element 824 is movable between an unlocked position in which the locking portion 840 is not received in the locking recess 834 in the lid 820, allowing the lid 820 to be removed from the body 818, and a locked position in which the locking portion 840 is received in the locking recess 834 in the lid 820, and the locking element 824 prevents the lid 820 from being removed from the body 818.

[0083] The locking portion 840 can be molded and constructed in various ways, some of which are described herein, and in one example, such as the example in Figures 13 to 21, the locking portion 840 includes a foot configured to be received in a locking recess 834 in the lid 820. When a force is applied to the control surface, the foot is released from the locking recess 834, allowing the lid 820 to rotate and to be removed from the body 818.

[0084] From a system perspective, the functional components that may be included on the base module 812 and the grinding module 814 are alignment teeth 922 on the base module 812 and a corresponding alignment guide 920 on the grinding module 814. The alignment guide 920 is molded to receive the alignment teeth 922 and is configured to align the grinding module 814 to the base module 812 and to facilitate the efficient and proper mounting of the grinding module 814 to the base module 812, for example, by ensuring that a plurality of openings 958 on the outer wall 910 of the base plate 902 receive the corresponding tabs 960 on the base module 812. Another functional component that may be included on the base module 812 and the grinding module 814 is a magnet 924 attached to the grinding module 814. From a system perspective, the base module 812 has a sensor 890 configured to detect the magnet 924 and indicate when the grinding module 814 is attached to the base module 812.

[0085] In an alternative example, a modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments utilizes a base module 812 equipped with a motor 813 and a crushing module 814. The crushing module 814 comprises a shell 816 adapted to be removablely attached to the base module 812. The shell 816 comprises a body 818, a crushing element 822 for converting aggregate into bone fragments, which is movably disposed within the shell 816, and a lid 820 molded to be removablely attached to the body 818. In this example, the modular system 810 comprises a locking element 824, which should be understood to be able to be attached to the crushing module 814 or base module 812 described herein, or to be provided as a standalone element independent of the base module 812 and the crushing module 814. Of course, as described above, the locking element 824 is movable between an unlocked position in which the locking element 824 is positioned relative to the lid 820 so as to allow the lid 820 to be removed from the main body 818, and a locked position in which the locking element 824 is positioned relative to the lid 820 so as to prevent the lid 820 from being removed from the main body 818.

[0086] Referring here to Figure 22, another example of method 1000 relating to the examples in Figures 13-22, but not limited to, includes the steps of: 1002 operating the grinding element to convert aggregate into bone fragments while the grinding module is attached to the base module; 1004 separating the grinding module from the base module so that the control surface on the locking element is accessible; 1006 applying force to the control surface after the grinding module has been separated from the base module to move the locking element to the unlocked position, thereby enabling the removal of the lid from the body; and 1008 removing the lid from the body of the grinding module shell.

[0087] In this method 1000, the step of attaching the grinding module to the base module is performed with the lid attached to the grinding module and the locking elements of the grinding module in the locked position. Once the grinding module is attached, the lid and catch tray are checked to ensure that they are properly attached and seated. Once the lid and catch tray are properly attached in place, the system of this disclosure is ready for use. Of course, this method may also include the step of providing a grinding module that can be provided as disposable or even reusable.

[0088] In this example, the system and / or grinding module have an active locking configuration. This is because, in order to move the locking element to the unlocked position and allow the lid to be removed from the body, the grinding module must first be separated from the base module, and then force must be applied to the locking element (e.g., the locking shaft). For this reason, the step of moving the locking element to the unlocked position and allowing the lid to be removed from the body further includes, after the step of removing the grinding module from the base module (as shown in Figure 20), applying force to the locking element to disengage it from the lid. The step of applying force to the control surface to move the locking element to the unlocked position is typically performed simultaneously with the step of rotating the lid.

[0089] After the step of removing the lid from the body of the grinding module shell, method 1000 may further include the step of collecting residual ash from the inner surface of the body and the grinding elements. In addition, method 1000 may further include the step of removing the grinding elements from the grinding module and collecting residual aggregate and / or ash from the surface of the grinding elements. Figure 21 shows the grinding elements removed from the grinding module.

[0090] Of course, the System 810 and Method 1000 of this Disclosure provide means for using bone fragments that are not normally accessible for use during formation. This feature also reduces the overall size of bone material that the practitioner needs to harvest from the patient to supply the volume of bone fragments required for the procedure. This reduction in the volume of bone material harvested also serves to reduce the trauma suffered by the patient from the need to harvest bone fragments.

[0091] Additional disclosure items I. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments, comprising a shell adapted to be removably attached to a base module having a motor, wherein the shell defines an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the shell and an outlet opening through which bone fragments are discharged from the shell, and the shell comprises a body, a crushing element movable within the shell for converting aggregate into bone fragments, a lid molded to be removably attached to the body so as to allow removal of residual bone fragments from the crushing element, and a locking element movable to the body and configured to engage with the base module and the lid when the shell is removably attached to the base module, the locking element being movable between an unlocked position in which it is disengaged from the lid so as to allow the lid to be removed from the body and an attached position in which it is engaged with the lid so as to prevent the lid from being removed from the body. II. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item I, comprising a locking shaft that is movably attached to the main body and coupled to a biasing element. III. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item II, wherein the biasing element is configured to push the locking shaft in a first direction, thereby biasing the locking shaft in a first direction in the unmounted position, and pushing the locking shaft in a second direction along the longitudinal axis of the pin in the mounted position. IV. The biasing element is a crushing module, positioned around the outer circumference of the locking shaft, which converts the aggregate described in item II or III into bone fragments. V. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in any one of items I to IV, wherein the main body defines a chamber and the locking element is movably positioned within the chamber. VI. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in any one of items II to V, wherein the lid defines a locking recess, and the locking shaft is movable between a release position in which the locking shaft is not received in the locking recess in the lid and the lid can be removed from the main body, and a mounting position in which the locking shaft is received in the locking recess in the lid and the locking shaft prevents the lid from being removed from the main body. VII. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in any one of items I to VI, wherein the lid has a base defining an inner surface, an outer surface, a side wall, and one or more tabs projecting radially outward from the side wall, the one or more tabs being positioned and sized such that when the base is positioned and rotated on the body, each tab rotates into its respective notch in the body to attach the lid to the body. VIII. A locking element located at the mounting position prevents the lid from rotating and subsequently from being removed from the main body; a crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item VII. IX. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments, as described in item VIII, with a base equipped with tabs, the tabs defining locking recesses. X. A crushing element is a crushing module that converts aggregates described in any one of items I-IX into bone fragments, adapted to be removably attached to a shell. XI. A grinding module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in any one of items I to X, further comprising a catch tray that is removably mounted to the shell adjacent to the outlet opening and receives the bone fragments discharged through the outlet opening, the catch tray being mounted to the shell to operate the grinding element. XII. A crushing module for converting aggregates described in any one of items I-XI into bone fragments, wherein at least one of the shell, body, and lid is transparent. XIII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, A base module comprising a motor and contact elements, A grinding module comprising a shell adapted to be removably attached to a base, the shell defining an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the shell and an outlet opening through which bone fragments are discharged from the shell, the shell comprising a body, a grinding element movable within the shell for converting aggregate into bone fragments, a lid molded to be removably attached to the body, and a locking element movable to the body and configured to engage with the base and lid when the shell is removably attached to the base, the locking element further comprising a locking element movable between a disengaged position in which the locking element engages with the lid and base so that the lid can be removed from the body, and an attached position in which the locking element engages with the base and lid so that the lid can be removed from the body, and It is equipped with, When the grinding module is not attached to the base module, the locking element is in the disengaged position, and the lid can be removed from the main body. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, in which, when the crushing module is attached to the base module, the locking elements are in their mounting positions, the lid is locked in place and cannot be removed from the main body. XIV. A modular system for converting the aggregate described in item XIII into bone fragments, comprising a locking shaft that is movably attached to the main body and coupled to a biasing element on the main body. XV. The biasing element is a modular system arranged around the outer circumference of the locking shaft, which converts the aggregate described in item XIV into bone fragments. XVI. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XIV or XV, wherein the lid defines a locking recess, and the locking shaft is movable between a dismount position in which the locking shaft is not received in the locking recess in the lid and the lid can be removed from the body, and a mounting position in which the locking shaft is engaged by a contact element on the base and received in the locking recess, preventing the lid from being removed from the body. XVII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XIII, the lid having a base defining an inner surface, an outer surface, a side wall, and one or more tabs projecting radially outward from the side wall, wherein the one or more tabs are positioned and sized such that when the base is positioned and rotated on the body, each tab rotates into its respective notch in the body and integrates with the notch, thereby attaching the lid to the body. XVIII. A modular system for converting the aggregate described in XVII into bone fragments, wherein the foundation has a locking recess for receiving a locking element, and when the locking shaft is in the mounting position, the locking shaft is received within the locking recess and cannot be removed from the main body by rotating the cover. XIX. A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments using a modular system, the modular system comprising a base module having a motor and contact elements, and a crushing module having a shell adapted to be releasably attached to the base module and defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, the shell comprising a body, a crushing element, a lid molded to be releasably attached to the body, and a locking element movably attached to the body and configured to engage with the base and the lid when the shell is releasably attached to the base, The steps include: attaching the lid to the grinding module and providing the grinding module in a disengaged position where the locking element is engaged with and disengaged from the lid and base so that the lid can be removed from the main body; A step of attaching a grinding module to a base module, wherein the contact element engages with a locking element, thereby moving the locking element along the longitudinal axis defined by the locking element, and pushing it in so as to engage with the lid and prevent the lid from being removed from the body, Steps include introducing aggregate into the shell through the entrance opening, The steps include activating a crushing element to convert the aggregate into bone fragments and discharging the bone fragments through an outlet opening, The steps include removing the grinding module from the base module and disengaging the locking element from the lid, The steps include removing the lid from the main body of the crushing module shell and A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments, which includes [a specific component]. XX. A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XIX, further comprising the step of removing the lid from the body and collecting residual bone fragments from the inner surface of the body and the crushed elements. XXI. A method for converting aggregate to bone fragments as described in item XX, further comprising the steps of removing the crushed elements and collecting residual aggregate and / or bone fragments that can be collected from the surface of the crushed elements. XXII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, A base module equipped with a motor, A grinding module comprising a shell adapted to be removably attached to a base module having a motor, wherein the shell defines an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the shell and an outlet opening through which bone fragments are discharged from the shell, and the shell further comprises a body, a grinding element movable within the shell for converting aggregate into bone fragments, and a lid molded to be removably attached to the body, and It is equipped with, The system is a modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, configured so that the motor does not supply power to the crushing element when the lid is removed from the main body. XXIII. A modular system for converting structural members into structural members as described in item XXII, comprising a locking element movably mounted to a main body and configured to engage with the base and lid when a shell is removably mounted to the base, the locking element being movable between an unmounted position in which the locking element engages with and disengages from the lid and base so that the lid can be removed from the main body, and an mounted position in which the locking element engages with the base and lid so that the lid cannot be removed from the main body. XXIV. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments, comprising a shell adapted to be removably attached to a base module having a motor, the shell defining an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the shell and an outlet opening through which bone fragments are discharged from the shell, the shell comprising a body, a crushing element movable within the shell for converting aggregate into bone fragments, a lid molded to be removably attached to the body to allow removal of residual bone fragments from the crushing element, and a locking element movable to the body and configured to engage with the lid when the shell is removably attached to the base module, the locking element being movable between an unlocked position positioned relative to the lid to allow removal of the lid from the body and a locked position positioned relative to the lid to prevent removal of the lid from the body. A crushing module that further incorporates the ability to convert aggregate into bone fragments. XXV. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXIV, wherein the locking element is movably attached to the main body and coupled to the biasing element. XXVI. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXV, wherein the locking element is a locking shaft having a first end and a second end and defining a longitudinal axis. XXVII. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXVI, wherein the biasing element is configured to push the locking element in a first direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element. XXVIII. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXVI, wherein the biasing element is configured to push the locking element in a second direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element. XXIX. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXVI, wherein the locking element has a biasing surface that cooperates with the biasing element and the main body to bias the locking element in a first direction or a second direction opposite to the first direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element. XXX. The biasing surface is a crushing module located at the first end of the locking element, which converts the aggregate described in item XXIX into bone fragments. XXXI. The biasing element is a crushing module positioned adjacent to the locking element, which converts the aggregate described in item XXIX or XXX into bone fragments. XXXII. The biasing element is a crushing module that is positioned around the outer circumference of the locking element and converts the aggregate described in item XXIX or XXX into bone fragments. XXXIII. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXV, wherein the above-mentioned body defines a chamber, and the above-mentioned locking element and the above-mentioned biasing element are movably arranged within the chamber. XXXIV. The above cover defines a locking recess, and the above locking shaft is A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXVI, wherein the locking shaft is movable between a unlocked position in which the locking shaft is not received in the locking recess in the lid and the lid can be removed from the main body, and a locked position in which the locking shaft is received in the locking recess in the lid and the locking shaft prevents the lid from being removed from the main body. XXXV. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXXIV, wherein the chamber is defined by a locking sleeve, the locking shaft and the biasing element are positioned within the locking sleeve, and the biasing element is configured to push the first end of the locking shaft longitudinally so as to pass through the first end of the locking sleeve. XXXVI. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXIV, wherein the above shell defines a lower surface opposite to the above lid, and the biasing element is configured to push the first end of the locking element longitudinally so as to pass through the above lower surface of the shell. XXXVII. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXXIV, wherein when the crushing module is not attached to the base module, the biasing element is configured to push the locking shaft to the unlocked position so as to allow the lid to be removed from the body, and when attached to the base module, the locking shaft is pushed to the locking position so as to prevent the lid from being removed from the body. XXXVIII. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXXIV, wherein the locking shaft is provided with a tab, and the force acting on the tab causes the locking shaft to be released from the locking recess. XXXIX. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXXIV, wherein the locking shaft comprises a tab located at a first end of the locking shaft and a foot at a second end configured to be received in the locking recess of the lid, and a force acting on the tab causes the foot to be released from the locking recess, moving the locking shaft from the locked position to the unlocked position, thereby enabling the subsequent removal of the lid from the main body. XL. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXXIV, wherein the locking shaft comprises a tab located at a first end of the locking shaft and a foot at a second end configured to be received in the locking recess of the lid, and a force acting on the tab causes the foot to be released from the locking recess, moving the locking shaft from the locked position to the unlocked position, thereby enabling the subsequent removal of the lid from the main body. XLI. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XXIV, comprising a locking arm having a second end and a first end, and rotatably mounted to the main body. XLII. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XLI, wherein the lid defines a locking recess, and the locking arm comprises a foot located at the second end and configured to be received by the locking recess in the lid, a mounting element, and optionally a biasing element. XLIII. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XLII, wherein the locking arm is biased to a locked position, and when a force is applied to the first end of the locking arm, the locking arm rotates from the locked position to the unlocked position, allowing the lid to be removed from the main body. XLIV. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XLIII, wherein the base module includes a contact element that, when the crushing module is attached to the base module, causes the locking arm to pivot to the unlocked position and thereafter prevents the lid from being removed from the main body. XLV. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments, as described in item XLIV, wherein the first end of the locking arm described above is equipped with a tab. XLVI. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in any one of items XXIV to XLV, wherein the lid comprises an inner surface, an outer surface, a side wall, and one or more tabs projecting radially outward from the side wall, the one or more tabs being positioned and sized such that when the lid is positioned on the body and rotated, each of the tabs rotates into its respective notch in the body to attach the lid to the body. XLVII. The locking element in the above-mentioned locking position prevents the lid from rotating and thus prevents the lid from being removed from the main body, a crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item XLVI. XLVIII. A crushing module for converting aggregates described in any one of items XXIV to XLVII into bone fragments, wherein the crushing element described above is adapted to be removably attached to the shell described above. XLIX. The above shell is further comprising a blade holder located inside the above body and detachably attached to the above body, the blade holder being, An upper tray having a circular top surface that holds the above-mentioned crushing element inside the main body, A side wall positioned around the outer circumference of the upper surface, the side wall having one or more tabs projecting radially outward from the side wall, The central sleeve is concentric with the center of the upper tray and extends downward from the upper tray. Equipped with, The one or more tabs projecting radially outward from the side wall are molded to allow each of the one or more tabs to engage with a corresponding notch in the body. When the central sleeve rotates in the first direction, the rotation causes each of the one or more tabs to engage with each of the corresponding notches in the main body, thereby holding the grinding element within the grinding module. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments, as described in any one of items XXIV to XLVIII, wherein when the central sleeve rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction described above, the rotation causes each of the one or more tabs to engage with and disengage from each of the corresponding notches in the main body, thereby enabling the subsequent removal of the blade holder and the crushing element from the main body, thereby facilitating easy access to residual bone fragments that may be placed on the upper surface of the upper tray and on the crushing element. L. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in any one of items XXIV to XLIX, wherein at least one of the above shell, body, and lid is transparent. LI. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, A base module equipped with a motor, A grinding module comprising a shell adapted to be removably attached to a base module, wherein the shell defines an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the shell and an outlet opening through which bone fragments are discharged from the shell, the shell comprising a body, a grinding element movable within the shell for converting aggregate into bone fragments, a lid molded to be removably attached to the body, and a locking element movable to the body and positioned to engage with the lid when the shell is removably attached to the base module, the locking element further comprising a locking element movable between an unlocked position in which the locking element is positioned relative to the lid to allow removal of the lid from the body and a locked position in which the locking element is positioned relative to the lid to prevent removal of the lid from the body, and It is equipped with, When the crushing module is not attached to the base module, the locking element is in the unlocked position, allowing the lid to be removed from the main body. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, in which the locking element is in a locked position when the crushing module is attached to the base module, preventing the lid from being removed from the main body. LII. A modular system for converting the aggregate described in item LI into bone fragments, the locking element being movably attached to the main body and coupled to the biasing element. LIII. A modular system for converting the aggregate described in item LII into bone fragments, wherein the locking element is a locking shaft having a first end and a second end and defining a longitudinal axis. LIV. A modular system for converting the aggregate described in item LIII into bone fragments, wherein the biasing element is configured to push the locking shaft in a first direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking shaft. LV. The biasing element is a modular system for converting the aggregate described in item LIII into bone fragments, configured to push the locking shaft in a second direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking shaft. LVI. The main body defines the chamber, and the locking shaft and biasing element are arranged within the chamber; this is a modular system that converts the aggregate described in item LIII into bone fragments. LVII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LVI, comprising a sleeve defining a chamber, with locking and biasing elements movably arranged within the sleeve. LVIII. The lid defines a locking recess, and the locking shaft is A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, as described in item LIII, wherein the locking shaft is not received in the locking recess of the lid, allowing the lid to be removed from the main body, and the locking shaft is movable between a release position and a locking position in which the locking shaft is received in the locking recess of the lid, preventing the lid from being removed from the main body. LIX. The lid is equipped with locking tabs, which define locking recesses, a modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LVIII. A modular system for converting aggregate to bone fragments as described in item LVII or LVIII, wherein the LX chamber is defined by a locking sleeve, a locking element is positioned within the locking sleeve, and a biasing element is configured to longitudinally push the first end of the locking shaft so as to pass through the first end of the locking sleeve. LXI. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LX, wherein when the crushing module is attached to the base module, the first end of the locking element is molded to engage with the base module and push the locking shaft into the locking recess and locking position. LXII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LI, wherein the locking element is equipped with a tab, and when the crushing module is not attached to the base module, the force acting on the tab moves the locking element to the unlocked position. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LVIII, wherein when the crushing module is not attached to the base module, the biasing element is configured to push the locking shaft to the unlocked position, allowing the lid to be removed from the body, and when the lid is attached to the base module, the base module is molded to push the locking shaft to the locked position, preventing the lid from being removed from the body. LXIV. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LVIII, comprising a locking shaft having a tab at a first end and a foot at a second end configured to be received in a locking recess in the lid, wherein when the crushing module is not attached to the base module, the force acting on the tab disengages the foot from the locking recess, moving the locking shaft from a locked position to an unlocked position, and allowing the lid to be subsequently removed from the main body. LXV. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LVIII, comprising a locking shaft having a tab located at a first end of the locking shaft and a foot at a second end of the locking shaft configured to be received in a locking recess in the lid, wherein when the crushing module is not attached to the base module, the force acting on the tab disengages the foot from the locking recess, moving the locking shaft from a locked position to an unlocked position, and allowing the lid to be subsequently removed from the main body. LXVI. A modular system for converting the aggregate described in item LI into bone fragments, comprising a locking arm having a first end and a second end, and rotatably mounted to the main body. LXVII. A modular system for converting the aggregate described in item LXVI into bone fragments, comprising a foot configured to be received by a locking recess in the lid, a mounting element, and optionally a biasing element. LXVIII. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, as described in item LXVII, in which the locking arm is biased to a locked position, and when a force is applied to the first end of the locking arm, the locking arm pivots from the locked position to the unlocked position, allowing the lid to be removed from the main body. LXIX. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LXVIII, comprising a base module equipped with a contact element, the first end of a locking arm in contact with the contact element, thereby preventing the locking arm from pivoting to an unlocked position when the crushing module is attached to the base module, and subsequently preventing the lid from being removed from the main body. LXX. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LI, wherein the lid defines an inner surface, an outer surface, a side wall, and one or more tabs projecting radially outward from the side wall, the one or more tabs being positioned and dimensionally defined such that when the lid is positioned on the body and rotated, each tab rotates into its respective notch in the body and integrates with the notch, thereby attaching the lid to the body. LXXI. The lid has a locking recess for receiving a locking element, and when the locking element is in the locking position, the locking element is received within the locking recess, preventing the lid from being removed from the main body. This is a modular system for converting the aggregate described in item LXX into bone fragments. LXXII. A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments using a modular system, the modular system comprising a base module equipped with a motor, and a grinding module fitted to be removably attached to the base module and having a shell defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, wherein the shell comprises a body, a grinding element, a lid molded to be removably attached to the body, and a locking element movably attached to the body and configured to engage with the lid when the shell is removably attached to the base module, A step of attaching a grinding module to a base module, wherein before, during, or after the step of attaching the grinding module to the base module, the lid is attached to the grinding module, and the locking elements of the grinding module are moved to a locking position relative to the lid so as to prevent the lid from being removed from the main body. Steps include introducing aggregate into the shell through the entrance opening, The steps include activating a crushing element to convert the aggregate into bone fragments and discharging the bone fragments through an outlet opening, The steps include removing the grinding module from the base module, A step of moving the locking element to the unlocked position to enable removal of the lid from the main body, The steps include removing the lid from the main body of the crushing module shell and A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments, which includes [a specific component]. LXXIII. The step of attaching the crushing module to the base module is performed with the lid attached to the crushing module and the locking elements of the crushing module in the locked position, in the method of converting aggregate to bone fragments as described in item LXXII. LXXIV. A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to LXXII or LXXIII, wherein the step of moving the locking element to the unlocked position includes applying force to the locking element after the step of removing the crushing module from the base module. The method for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LXXII, wherein the step of attaching the crushing module to the base module is performed with the lid attached to the crushing module, and the step of attaching the crushing module to the base module simultaneously pushes the locking element into the locking position so that the locking element moves to the locking position. LXXVI. A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in item LXXII, further comprising the step of removing the lid from the body and collecting residual bone fragments from the inner surface of the body and the crushed elements. LXXVII. A method for converting aggregate to bone fragments as described in item LXXII, further comprising the steps of removing the crushing element from the crushing module and collecting residual aggregate and / or bone fragments from the surface of the crushing element.

[0092] The above pertains to one specific form of this disclosure. Alternative forms of this disclosure may have different characteristics than those described.

[0093] For example, not all embodiments of this disclosure are required to include a detection member and sensor system for determining whether the lid 20 and catch tray 44 are properly attached to the body 18 of the shell 16. Similarly, some embodiments of this disclosure may not include the catch tray 44.

[0094] The features of this disclosure may also differ from those described. Therefore, in all forms of this disclosure, the crushing element that converts aggregate into bone fragments does not need to be a disc. In some forms of this disclosure, this component may be a blade.

[0095] Similarly, in embodiments of this disclosure in which a sensor monitors whether the lid 20 and / or catch tray 44 are properly attached to the grinding module 14, the sensor is not always a sensor that monitors the presence or absence of a magnetic field. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the sensor may be an optical sensor that emits a signal based on whether or not light of a particular wavelength is being received. In these embodiments of this disclosure, the marker integrated with the lid 20 may be a reflective material. The detection member integrated with the catch tray 44 may be an optical fiber having a filter that allows light to pass through at the wavelength to be monitored. In other embodiments of this disclosure, the sensor may be a mechanical switch. In these embodiments of this disclosure, the detection member may be a stationary or moving mechanical member integrated with the lid 20 and the catch tray 44. These components actuate the switch as a result of alignment or engagement. A change in the state of the signal across the switch is interpreted by the controller as indicating that the lid 20 and the catch tray 44 are properly attached to the grinding module 14.

[0096] In an embodiment of the present disclosure without a catch tray 44, the detection member can be associated with the shell 16. In this embodiment of the present disclosure, the sensor outputs a signal indicating that these components are properly mounted to the base module 12 only when the shell 16 of the system 10 is properly mounted to the base module 12 and the lid 20 is properly mounted to the shell 16 of the system 10. Only when this signal is received does the controller enable the operation of the motor integrated with the base module 12.

[0097] The System 10 of this Disclosure is designed to reduce material. Specifically, the System 10 is designed to convert a set number of large materials into an increase in the number of small materials. The System 10 can be configured to reduce hard or soft materials, and the System 10 can be configured to produce small materials of a specific size. For example, by using different grinding elements, the System 10 of this Disclosure can be used to cut soft tissue into a form that can be used for treatment, or to convert bone material into bone particles (rather than bone fragments). Furthermore, although this Disclosure focuses on converting bone material into bone fragments, the System 10 may have other applications. The System 10 may also have applications other than surgical procedures.

[0098] Therefore, the purpose of the attached claims is to encompass all such modifications and variations that fall within the true intent and scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, in order to maintain the disclosures made at the time of filing this application, the contents of claims 1 to 51 at the time of filing this application are added below. (Claim 1) A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments, comprising a shell adapted to be removably attached to a base module having a motor, wherein the shell defines an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the shell, The main unit and A crushing element that converts aggregate into bone fragments is movably arranged within the aforementioned shell, A lid, which is removably attached to the main body and molded to allow the removal of residual bone fragments from the crushing element, A locking element that is movable between a release position positioned relative to the lid so as to allow the lid to be removed from the main body, and a locking position positioned relative to the lid so as to prevent the lid from being removed from the main body. A crushing module that further incorporates the ability to convert aggregate into bone fragments. (Claim 2) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 1, wherein the locking element defines a longitudinal axis, has a control surface at a first end, and has a locking portion at a second end. (Claim 3) The locking element is movably attached to the main body and coupled to a biasing element, the crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 1 or 2. (Claim 4) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 1, wherein the main body defines a channel and the locking element is at least partially disposed within the channel. (Claim 5) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 3, wherein the locking element has a biasing surface that cooperates with the biasing element and the main body to bias the locking element in a first or second direction along the longitudinal axis of the locking element. (Claim 6) The biasing surface is located at the first end of the locking element, the crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 5. (Claim 7) The biasing element is arranged around the outer circumference of the locking element, and the crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments is according to any one of claims 3 to 6. (Claim 8) The biasing element is arranged adjacent to the locking element, and is a crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 3 to 6. (Claim 9) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the main body defines a chamber, and the locking element is movably disposed within the chamber. (Claim 10) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the main body further comprises an operating guide, and the locking element is at least partially disposed within the operating guide. (Claim 11) The lid defines a locking recess, and the locking element is A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 2, wherein the locking portion is not received in the locking recess of the lid, and the locking release position allows the lid to be removed from the main body, and the locking portion is received in the locking recess of the lid, and the locking element is movable between these two positions. (Claim 12) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 11, wherein the locking portion includes a foot portion configured to be received in the locking recess of the lid. (Claim 13) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 12, wherein the force acting on the control surface causes the foot to be detached from the locking recess, enabling the rotation of the lid and the removal of the lid from the main body. (Claim 14) The locking element defines a biasing surface opposite to the control surface, wherein the crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments is as described in claim 13. (Claim 15) The biasing surface comprises a biasing element mount adjacent to the locking element, wherein the crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments is as described in claim 14. (Claim 16) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 15, wherein the biasing element is arranged around the biasing element mount and contacts the inner surface of the main body, thereby biasing the locking element toward the base module along the longitudinal axis in a first direction. (Claim 17) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the shell further comprises a base plate having an upper surface, a lower surface, and an outer wall. (Claim 18) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the main body defines a channel extending between a locking opening and a control opening, and the locking element is at least partially disposed within the channel. (Claim 19) The main body comprises a base plate defining the control opening, wherein the crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments is according to any one of claims 1 to 18. (Claim 20) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the main body defines a catch tray opening, the upper surface of the base plate defines a recess having a floor portion, and the opening and the recess are configured to receive a catch tray. (Claim 21) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 20, wherein the floor portion defines a first retaining element configured to engage with a corresponding retaining element on the catch tray, thereby biasing the catch tray toward the rear wall of the recess and attaching the catch tray to the shell. (Claim 22) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 21, wherein the first retaining element is a notched retaining tab, and the corresponding retaining element is a notch on the catch tray. (Claim 23) A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 19 to 22, further comprising a magnet mounted on the base plate, wherein the magnet is detectable by a sensor in the base module, indicating that the crushing module is attached to the base module. (Claim 24) A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the main body defines an alignment guide molded to receive alignment teeth on the base module, and the alignment guide is configured to align the crushing module with the base module and to facilitate efficient and proper mounting of the crushing module to the base module. (Claim 25) The lid comprises an inner surface, an outer surface, a side wall, and one or more tabs projecting radially outward from the side wall, the one or more tabs being positioned and sized such that when the lid is positioned on the body and rotated, each of the tabs rotates into its respective notch in the body to attach the lid to the body, the crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 24. (Claim 26) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 25, wherein the locking element in the locking position prevents the lid from rotating and prevents the lid from being removed from the main body. (Claim 27) A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the lid defines an inlet opening and comprises a supply sleeve positioned around the inlet opening, the supply sleeve having an inner surface and an outer surface and being dimensioned to slidably receive a plunger. (Claim 28) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 27, wherein the supply sleeve comprises a second retaining element configured to engage with a corresponding retaining element on the plunger, thereby biasing the plunger toward the inlet opening and attaching the plunger to the lid. (Claim 29) A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 28, wherein the second retaining element is a notch, and the corresponding retaining element is a notched retaining tab on the plunger. (Claim 30) A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the crushing element is adapted to be removably attached to the shell. (Claim 31) The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the main body further comprises an operating guide, and the locking element is at least partially disposed within the operating guide. (Claim 32) A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein at least one of the shell, the body, and the lid is transparent. (Claim 33) A modular system that converts aggregate into bone fragments, A base module equipped with a motor, A crushing module comprising a shell adapted to be removably attached to the base module, the shell further comprising a body, a crushing element movable within the shell for converting aggregate into bone fragments, and a lid molded to be removably attached to the body, A locking element having a control surface and a locking portion, which is movable between a locking position in which the lid cannot be removed and a unlocking position in which the lid can be removed. It is equipped with, When the grinding module is attached to the base module, the control surface is inaccessible for operation, and the locking element is in the locking position. A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments, wherein the control surface is accessible for operation when the crushing module is not attached to the base module. (Claim 34) The modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 33, wherein the locking element in the locking position prevents the lid from rotating and prevents the lid from being removed from the main body. (Claim 35) The aforementioned lid defines a locking recess, and the locking element is A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 33 or 34, wherein the locking portion is not received in the locking recess of the lid, and the locking release position allows the lid to be removed from the main body, and the locking portion is received in the locking recess of the lid, and the locking element is movable between these two positions. (Claim 36) The modular system for converting bone material into bone fragments according to claim 35, wherein the locking portion includes a foot portion configured to be received in the locking recess of the lid. (Claim 37) A modular system for converting bone material into bone fragments according to claim 36, wherein the force acting on the control surface causes the foot portion to be detached from the locking recess, enabling the rotation of the lid and the removal of the lid from the main body. (Claim 38) A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 33 to 37, wherein the base module comprises alignment teeth, the shell of the grinding module is molded to receive the alignment teeth, and defines an alignment guide configured to align the grinding module with the base module and facilitate efficient and proper mounting of the grinding module to the base module. (Claim 39) A modular system for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 33 to 38, wherein the shell of the crushing module has a magnet attached to the shell, and the base module has a sensor configured to detect the magnet and indicate when the crushing module is attached to the base module. (Claim 40) A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments using a modular system, the modular system comprising a base module equipped with a motor, and a crushing module adapted to be removably attached to the base module, the crushing module comprising a body, a crushing element, a lid molded to be removably attached to the body, and a shell having a control surface and a locking portion, and a locking element configured to engage with the lid, The steps include: operating the crushing element to convert the aggregate into bone fragments while the crushing module is attached to the base module; The steps include separating the grinding module from the base module so that the control surface on the locking element can be accessed, After separating the grinding module from the base module, a force is applied to the control surface to move the locking element to the unlocked position, thereby enabling the removal of the lid from the main body. The steps include removing the lid from the body of the shell of the grinding module and A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments, which includes [a specific component]. (Claim 41) The method for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 40, wherein the step of attaching the crushing module to the base module is performed with the lid attached to the crushing module and the locking element of the crushing module in the locked position. (Claim 42) The method for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 40 or 41, wherein the step of applying force to the control surface to move the locking element to the unlocked position is performed simultaneously with the step of rotating the lid. (Claim 43) A method for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 40, further comprising the step of collecting residual bone fragments from the inner surface of the body and the crushing element after the lid has been removed from the body. (Claim 44) A method for converting aggregate to bone fragments according to claim 40, further comprising the steps of removing the grinding element from the grinding module and collecting residual aggregate and / or bone fragments from the surface of the grinding element. (Claim 45) A grinding module configured for use with a base module comprising a motor, a controller, and a support surface having alignment teeth and a sensor, comprising a shell adapted to be removably attached to the base module, The aforementioned shell is The lower surface and the outer wall extending around the periphery of the lower surface, An alignment guide, formed on the outer wall of the base module to receive the alignment teeth on the base module, is configured to align the grinding module with the base module and to facilitate the efficient and proper mounting of the grinding module to the base module. A magnet attached to the lower surface, which is detectable by the sensor when the crushing module is attached to the base module, A crushing element that converts aggregate into bone fragments is movably positioned inside the shell, A module holding element extending from the lower surface and engaging with a boss on the base module to define a space for dissipating rotational energy when the grinding module is in use. A crushing module equipped with the following. (Claim 46) The aforementioned shell is A lid that is molded to be removablely attached to the main body, A locking element that defines a longitudinal axis and has a control surface at a first end and a locking portion at a second end, and is positioned to engage with the lid when the shell is removably attached to the base module, and Furthermore, The crushing module according to claim 45, wherein the locking element is movable between an unlocked position positioned relative to the lid to allow the lid to be removed from the body and a locked position positioned relative to the lid to prevent the lid from being removed from the body. (Claim 47) The crushing module according to claim 46, wherein the locking element in the locking position prevents the lid from rotating and prevents the lid from being removed from the main body. (Claim 48) The aforementioned lid defines a locking recess, and the locking element is The crushing module according to claim 47, wherein the locking portion is not received in the locking recess of the lid and is movable between a unlocked position that allows the lid to be removed from the main body and a locked position in which the locking portion is received in the locking recess of the lid and the locking element prevents the lid from being removed from the main body. (Claim 49) The crushing module according to claim 48, wherein the locking portion includes a foot portion configured to be received in the locking recess of the lid. (Claim 50) The crushing module according to claim 49, wherein the force acting on the control surface causes the foot to be detached from the locking recess, enabling the rotation of the lid and the removal of the lid from the main body. (Claim 51) A modular system that converts aggregate into bone fragments, A base module equipped with a motor, A crushing module comprising a shell adapted to be removably attached to the base module, the shell further comprising a body, a crushing element movable within the shell for converting aggregate into bone fragments, and a lid molded to be removably attached to the body, A locking element that is movable between a release position positioned relative to the lid so as to allow the lid to be removed from the main body, and a locking position positioned relative to the lid so as to prevent the lid from being removed from the main body. A modular system that converts aggregate into bone fragments.

Claims

1. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments, comprising a shell detachably attached to a base module equipped with a motor, wherein the shell defines an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the shell, A body comprising a base plate having an upper surface, wherein the base plate defines a control opening, and the body defines a channel extending from the control opening to a locking opening, A crushing element for converting aggregate into bone fragments is movably disposed within the shell, which is located above the base plate and below the entrance opening. A lid adjacent to the locking opening, removably attached to the main body, molded to allow the removal of residual bone fragments from the crushing element, and defining a locking recess, A locking element is at least partially positioned within the channel between a release position, which is positioned relative to the lid to allow the lid to be removed from the main body, and a locking position, which is positioned in the locking recess of the lid to prevent the lid from being removed from the main body, wherein the locking element has a first end that is seated in the control opening and is movably positioned within the locking opening. A crushing module that further incorporates the ability to convert aggregate into bone fragments.

2. The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 1, wherein the locking element defines a longitudinal axis, has a control surface at the first end, and has a locking portion at the second end.

3. The locking element is movably attached to the main body and coupled to a biasing element, the crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The biasing element is arranged around the outer periphery of the locking element, in the crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in claim 3.

5. The biasing element is arranged adjacent to the locking element in the crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments as described in claim 3.

6. The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the main body defines a chamber, and the locking element is movably disposed within the chamber.

7. The crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the main body further comprises a sleeve, and the locking element is at least partially disposed within the sleeve.

8. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments, comprising a shell detachably attached to a base module equipped with a motor, wherein the shell defines an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the shell, A main body having a base plate with an upper surface, A crushing element that converts aggregate into bone fragments is movably arranged within the aforementioned shell, A lid, which is removably attached to the main body and is molded to allow the removal of residual bone fragments from the crushing element, A locking element is movably positioned within a locking opening between a release position, which is positioned relative to the lid to allow the lid to be removed from the main body, and a locking position, which is positioned in the locking recess of the lid to prevent the lid from being removed from the main body. It also has the following features: The locking element defines a longitudinal axis, has a control surface at a first end, and a locking portion at a second end. The biasing element is positioned on the outer circumference of the locking element. Grinding module.

9. A crushing module for converting aggregate into bone fragments, comprising a shell detachably attached to a base module equipped with a motor, wherein the shell defines an inlet opening through which aggregate is introduced into the shell, A main body having a base plate with an upper surface, A crushing element that converts aggregate into bone fragments is movably arranged within the aforementioned shell, A lid, which is removably attached to the main body and is molded to allow the removal of residual bone fragments from the crushing element, A locking element having a control surface and a locking portion, wherein the locking element is movably positioned within a locking opening between a release position positioned relative to the lid to allow the lid to be removed from the main body and a locking position positioned within a locking recess of the lid to prevent the lid from being removed from the main body. Furthermore, The grinding module is such that, when the grinding module is attached to the base module, it is inaccessible to the control surface for operation, and when the grinding module is not attached to the base module, it is accessible to the control surface.

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