Receptacles and plugs for coupling surgical instruments with surgical generators

Abstract

A receptacle of a surgical generator, a plug of a surgical instrument, and a surgical system are configured such that the plug is insertable into the receptacle in a first orientation to electrically connect a plurality of plug contacts to a plurality of first receptacle contacts and in a second orientation to electrically connect the plurality of plug contacts to a plurality of second receptacle contacts. The second orientation is rotated 180 degrees relative to the first orientation. The same electrical functions are provided from the surgical generator to the plug in each of the first and second orientations.

Description

RECEPTACLES AND PLUGS FOR COUPLING SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SURGICAL GENERATORSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 529,679, filed July 29, 2023, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to surgical systems and, more particularly, to receptacles and plugs for coupling surgical instruments with surgical generators.BACKGROUND

[0003] Surgical generators are utilized to power connected surgical instruments and / or provide energy to connected surgical instruments to enable the application of energy, e.g., radiofrequency (RF) energy (monopolar and / or bipolar RF energy), ultrasonic energy, thermal energy, microwave energy, etc., from the surgical instruments to tissue. Surgical generators may also communicate with connected surgical instruments to enable identification of the surgical instruments, read / write data to / from the surgical instruments, control activation and / or other functions of the surgical instruments, and / or control the supply of power and / or energy to the surgical instruments.

[0004] Surgical generators typically include one or more receptacles, each configured to receive a plug associated with a surgical instrument to connect the surgical instrument to the surgical generator, e.g., to enable the above-noted functionality.SUMMARY

[0005] As used herein, the term “distal” refers to the portion that is being described which is farther from an operator (whether a human user (surgeon, nurse, etc.) or a surgical robot), while the term “proximal” refers to the portion that is being described which is closer to the operator. Terms including “generally,” “about,” “substantially,” and the like, as utilized herein, are meant to encompass variations, e.g., manufacturing tolerances, material tolerances, use and environmental tolerances, measurement variations, design variations, and / or other variations, up to and including plus or minus 10 percent. Further, to the extent consistent, any or all of the aspects detailed herein may be used in conjunction with any or all of the other aspects detailed herein.

[0006] Provided in accordance with the present disclosure is a receptacle of a surgical generator including at least one bay and a plurality of contacts. The at least one bay is disposed along a first axis and defines a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. The plurality of contacts is disposed within the at least one bay and includes a plurality of first contacts disposed within the at least one bay on a first side of the first axis and a plurality of second contacts disposed within the at least one bay on a second, opposite side of the first axis. The plurality of first contacts and the plurality of second contacts are symmetrically positioned relative to the first axis. The plurality of contacts defines a plurality of pairs of contacts. Each pair of contacts includes a first contact of the plurality of first contacts and a second contact of the plurality of second contacts that is disposed an equal distance from the second axis as the first contact of that pair of contacts. The first and second contacts of each pair of contacts provide the same electrical function to enable operable receipt of a plug within the at least one bay in each of a first orientation and second orientation rotated 180 degrees relative to the first orientation.

[0007] In an aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one bay includes a plurality of bays disposed along the first axis. Each pair of adjacent bays of the plurality of bays is separated by a partition.

[0008] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one bay is symmetrical about each of the first axis and the second axis.

[0009] In still another aspect of the present disclosure, the electrical connections for at least three of the pairs of contacts are for surgical energy. In aspects, the surgical energy includes at least one of RF therapeutic energy or an ultrasonic drive signal.

[0010] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least three of the pairs of contacts are spaced-apart along the first axis to inhibit electrical creepage.

[0011] In still yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the receptacle further includes at least one engagement assembly configured to releasably engage a plug inserted into the at least one bay. In aspects, first and second engagement assemblies are disposed along the first axis at opposing ends of the at least one bay. The first and second engagement assemblies are configured to releasably engage a plug inserted into the at least one bay.

[0012] A plug of a surgical instrument provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure includes a housing, a body (such as, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB)) disposed within the housing, and a plurality of contacts. The body (e.g., the PCB) includes aprotruding portion extending from the housing to an edge and defines a first axis extending between opposing ends of the protruding portion. The protruding portion protrudes from the housing to the edge along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. The plurality of contacts is disposed on the protruding portion of the body and extends along the first axis. The plurality of contacts is symmetrically positioned relative to the second axis. A first contact of the plurality of contacts on a first side of the second axis is farther from the edge relative to other contacts of the plurality of contacts on the first side of the second axis, and a second contact of the plurality of contacts on a second, opposite side of the second axis is farther from the edge relative to other contacts of the plurality of contacts on the second side of the second axis.

[0013] In an aspect of the present disclosure, the protruding portion of the body includes a plurality of tabs with a gap separating adjacent tabs of the plurality of tabs. At least one contact of the plurality of contacts is disposed on each tab of the plurality of tabs.

[0014] In another aspect of the present disclosure, at least two tabs of the plurality of tabs include contacts of the plurality of contacts configured to receive surgical energy from a surgical generator.

[0015] In still another aspect of the present disclosure, the edge of the protruding portion of the body is tapered.

[0016] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a protective layer is disposed on the body and extending from the edge towards the housing to cover a portion of each contact of the plurality of contacts.

[0017] In still yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the housing includes at least one engagement notch configured to facilitate engagement of the housing with a receptacle of a surgical generator. In aspects, first and second engagement notches on respective first and second sides of the housing are provided. The first and second engagement notches are configured to facilitate engagement of the housing with a receptacle of a surgical generator.

[0018] A surgical system provided in accordance with the present disclosure includes a surgical generator including a receptacle and a surgical instrument including a plug. The receptacle has a plurality of receptacle contacts including a plurality of first receptacle contacts disposed on a first side of a first axis and a plurality of second receptacle contacts disposed on a second, opposite side of the first axis. The plurality of receptacle contacts defines a plurality of pairs of contacts, each including a first receptacle contact of the plurality of first receptacle contactsand a second receptacle contact of the plurality of second receptacle contacts that is disposed an equal distance from a second axis perpendicular to the first axis as the first receptacle contact of that pair of contacts. The first and second receptacle contacts of each pair of contacts have the same electrical connection. The plug is configured for insertion into the receptacle and includes a plurality of plug contacts. The plug is insertable into the receptacle in a first orientation to electrically connect the plurality of plug contacts to the plurality of first receptacle contacts and in a second orientation to electrically connect the plurality of plug contacts to the plurality of second receptacle contacts. The second orientation is rotated 180 degrees relative to the first orientation. The same electrical functions are provided from the surgical generator to the plug in each of the first and second orientations.

[0019] In an aspect of the present disclosure, the receptacle includes a plurality of bays separated by partitions and the plug includes a plurality of tabs separated by gaps. Upon insertion of the plug into the receptacle, the tabs are configured for receipt within the bays and the partitions are configured for receipt within the gaps.

[0020] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the receptacle includes at least one engagement assembly configured to releasably engage the plug upon insertion of the plug into the receptacle. In aspects, first and second engagement assemblies are spaced apart along the first axis. The first and second engagement assemblies are configured to releasably engage the plug therebetween upon insertion of the plug into the receptacle.

[0021] In still another aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of plug contacts is symmetrically positioned relative to the second axis. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of receptacle contacts is symmetrically positioned relative to each of the first axis and the second axis.

[0022] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one plug contact of the plurality of plug contacts is set back relative to other plug contacts of the plurality of plug contacts such that the at least one plug contact electrically connects to a corresponding receptacle contact of the plurality of receptacle contacts last upon insertion of the plug into the receptacle and electrically disconnects from the corresponding receptacle contact of the plurality of receptacle contacts first upon removal of the plug from the receptacle.

[0023] In still yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the surgical generator is configured to determine whether the plug is disposed in the first orientation or the second orientation in response to insertion of the plug into the receptacle.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] The above and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will become more apparent in view of the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals identify similar or identical elements.

[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates a surgical system provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure including a surgical instrument and a surgical generator;

[0026] FIG. 2 is a front, perspective view of a receptacle of the surgical generator of FIG. 1 ;

[0027] FIG. 3 is a front, perspective view of the receptacle of FIG. 2 with the outer housing removed to better illustrate other features;

[0028] FIG. 4 is an enlarged, perspective view of an engagement assembly of the receptacle of FIG. 2;

[0029] FIG. 5 is a top, perspective view of a plug of the surgical instrument of FIG. 1;

[0030] FIG. 6 is a top view of the printed circuit board (PCB) of the plug of FIG. 5;

[0031] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the area of detail indicated as “7” in FIG. 6; and

[0032] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of the electrical contacts of the receptacle of FIG. 2.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The present disclosure provides receptacles and plugs for coupling surgical instruments with surgical generators. Although detailed herein with respect to coupling an electrosurgical forceps with an electrosurgical generator, it is understood that the aspects and features of the present disclosure are equally appliable for use with any suitable surgical instrument and / or any suitable surgical generator. More specifically, the present disclosure provides receptacles and / or plugs that are “universal” in that the receptacles may operably receive plugs of various different surgical instruments (e.g., surgical instruments configured to output different energy modalities (monopolar Radio Frequency (RF) energy, standard bipolar RF energy, advanced bipolar RF energy (such as for tissue sealing), microwave energy, thermal energy, ultrasonic drive signals (for driving an ultrasonic transducer of an ultrasonic surgical instrument), etc.) and / or in that the plugs may be utilized with the various different surgical instruments.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1, a surgical system 10 provided in accordance with the present disclosure includes a surgical instrument 100 (e.g., an electrosurgical forceps) and a surgical generator 200 (e.g., an electrosurgical generator 200). Instrument 100 includes a housing 120, a handle assembly 130, a rotating assembly 140, a trigger assembly 150, an activation assembly 160, an end effector assembly 170, and a connector assembly 180. End effector assembly 170 includes first and second jaw members 172, 174, at least one of which is movable relative to the other to grasp tissue to enable sealing and / or dividing of the grasped tissue. Instrument 100 further includes a shaft 110 that has a proximal end portion 112 operatively engaged to housing 120 and a distal end portion 114 operably engaged to end effector assembly 170.

[0035] Handle assembly 130 includes a fixed handle 132 and a movable handle 134. Fixed handle 132 is integrally associated with housing 120 and movable handle 134 is movable relative to the fixed handle 132 to actuate a drive assembly (not shown) of surgical instrument 100 to move either or both of jaw members 172, 174 of end effector assembly 170 relative to one another from an open configuration to a closed configuration to grasp tissue between first and second jaw members 172, 174.

[0036] Each jaw member 172, 174 of end effector assembly 170 includes an electrically conductive tissue contacting surface 173, 175, respectively. Jaw members 172, 174 are configured to grasp tissue between electrically conductive tissue contacting surface 173, 175 in the closed configuration thereof. Electrically conductive tissue contacting surfaces 173, 175 are adapted to connect to surgical generator 200, e.g., via suitable electrical lead wires, electrically conductive structures, or combinations thereof extending through shaft 110, housing 120, and connector assembly 180 to enable energization of electrically conductive tissue contacting surface 173, 175 with energy, e.g., bipolar Radio Frequency (RF) energy, at different potentials to enable the conduction of the energy between electrically conductive tissue contacting surface 173, 175 and through tissue grasped therebetween in a bipolar configuration to treat the tissue. In aspects, surgical generator 200 is configured to implement a tissue sealing algorithm to control the delivery of RF energy to electrically conductive tissue contacting surfaces 173, 175 and through the tissue grasped therebetween to seal the tissue.

[0037] Rotating assembly 140 is engaged with shaft 110 within housing 120 and extends outwardly from either side of housing 120 to enable a user to manually control the orientation of shaft 110 and thus, end effector assembly 170, relative to housing 120. In aspects, rotatingassembly 140 is infinitely rotatable in either direction to similarly rotate end effector assembly 170 relative to housing 120. Alternatively, rotating assembly 140 may have a defined range of motion.

[0038] Trigger assembly 150 enables a user to advance a knife (not shown) between first and second jaws 172, 174 to cut tissue grasped between jaw members 172, 174. The knife may be configured for dynamically mechanically cutting tissue or may be energized to dynamically electrically (or electromechanically) cut tissue grasped between jaw members 172, 174. As an alternative to a movable knife, a cutting electrode (not shown) disposed within either or both jaw members 172, 174 may be provided for selective energization to statically electrically (or electromechanically) cut tissue grasped between jaw members 172, 174. In aspects, the energizable knife or cutting electrode may be energized with monopolar RF energy, bipolar RF energy, thermal energy, microwave energy, or other suitable energy modality.

[0039] Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, activation assembly 160 is configured to signal surgical generator 200 to initiate the supply of electrosurgical energy to first and second jaw members 172, 174 for sealing tissue. Activation assembly 160 includes an activation button 162 supported by housing 120 and movable between an un-actuated position and an actuated position to thereby transition an underlying electrical switch (not shown) between a first state and a second state. The electrical switch of activation assembly 160, in turn, is adapted to electrically connect to surgical generator 200, e.g., via one or more electrical lead wires extending from the electrical switch through housing 120 and connector assembly 180 to enable communication of the state of the electrical switch to surgical generator 200.

[0040] Surgical generator 200 may be configured to read an output, e.g., the presence of a resistance, voltage, current, etc. and / or a value of the resistance, voltage, current, etc., to detect the state of the electrical switch and, thus, to detect whether the user has activated activation button 162. In aspects, surgical generator 200 reads the first state of the electrical switch as corresponding to an un-activated state and the second state of the electrical switch as corresponding to an activated state. Alternatively, activation button 162 may include three or more discrete stages or may be a continuous button such that the electrical switch includes three or more outputs capable of being read by surgical generator 200. In such aspects, the outputs may include at least a first output corresponding to an un-activated state, a second output corresponding to a first activated state, and a third output corresponding to a second activated state. The activated states may differ in terms of energy parameters implemented (e.g., power, voltage, current, etc.), energy control algorithmsimplemented, energy modality implemented (e.g., monopolar RF vs. bipolar RF), or in any other suitable manner.

[0041] Connector assembly 180 of surgical instrument 100 includes a cable 184 having a plug 186 configured to connect instrument 100 to surgical generator 200, as described in greater detail hereinbelow. Electrical lead wires (not shown) electrically coupled to plug 186 extend through cable 184 and into housing 120 for electrical connection to jaw members 172, 174 and / or activation assembly 160 to enable the selective supply of energy from surgical generator 200 to jaw members 172, 174, e.g., upon activation of activation button 162.

[0042] In aspects, connector assembly 180 may include additional electrical lead wires (not shown) electrically coupled to plug 186 and extending through cable 184 into housing 120 such as, for example, to power (and control) a motor of surgical instrument 100, provide power to and / or enable communication with a sensor of surgical instrument 100, provide power to and / or enable communication with a user interface associated with surgical instrument 100, and / or to provide energy (and control) to an additional energy-based element(s) associated with surgical instrument 100. The additional energy-based element may include, for example, an energizable knife, energizable probe, other electrode, etc., and may be configured to receive a different energy modality, different energy parameters, etc.

[0043] Referring still to FIG. 1, surgical generator 200 includes a housing 202, a display 210, a plurality of user interface features 220 (e.g., buttons, touch-screens, switches, etc.), and a plurality of receptacles 230. One or more of the receptacles 230 may be a “universal” receptacle in that such receptacle(s) 230 is configured to receive a plug of at least two different surgical instruments, e.g., of different configurations, different energy modalities, different energy parameters, etc. For example, the one or more receptacles 230 may be configured to receive plug 186 of surgical instrument 100 (e.g., a bipolar RF surgical instrument for sealing tissue), a plug of a monopolar surgical instrument, a plug of a standard bipolar surgical instrument, a plug of an ultrasonic surgical instrument (or transducer thereof), etc. In aspects, the plugs are also “universal,” as noted above, in that the plugs of the different surgical instruments may be configured with the same receptacle-coupling features as plug 186 (as detailed hereinbelow) such that the same plug and receptacle configurations are utilized for connecting the various different surgical instruments with surgical generator 200. In other aspects, the receptacle-coupling features of the plugs of the various different surgical instruments may be different from one another yetstill compatible with the one or more receptacles 230. In aspects, one or more other receptacles 230 are non-universal, e.g., dedicated receptacles configured to receive particular plugs and / or to enable connection to particular surgical instruments.

[0044] Surgical generator 200 further includes one or more generator modules (not shown) configured to generate suitable energy for output through receptacles 230 to the connected surgical instrument. For example, a tissue sealing generator module may generate bipolar RF energy for output through one of receptacles 230 to surgical instrument 100 for sealing tissue grasped between jaw members 172, 174. As another example, a monopolar generator module may generate monopolar RF energy for output through one of receptacles 230 to a monopolar surgical instrument to cut, cauterize, and / or coagulate tissue (and to receive a return signal from the surgical instrument or a separate return device (e.g., remote return pad)). As still another example, a standard bipolar generator module may generate bipolar RF energy for output through one of receptacles 230 to a standard bipolar surgical instrument for cauterizing and / or coagulating tissue. Further still, an ultrasonic generator module may generate a transducer drive signal for output to an ultrasonic transducer of an ultrasonic surgical instrument for producing (and controlling) ultrasonic energy supplied to tissue to treat (e.g., seal and / or cut) tissue. Although detailed as separate generator modules, it is understood that the various generator modules noted above may utilize some or all of the same components of surgical generator 200.

[0045] Surgical generator 200 also includes one or more general controllers (not shown) such as, for example, to control of the various modules, components, and features of surgical generator 200 and / or one or more dedicated controllers (not shown) such as, for example, to control one or more of the various modules, components, and features of surgical generator 200.

[0046] Turning to FIGS. 2-8, receptacles 230 and plug 186 are described. Receptacles 230 are the same as one another and, thus, reference is made hereinbelow to one receptacle 230 (in the singular). With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, receptacle 230 includes an outer housing 240, a slot 242 defined within outer housing 240, a pair of engagement assemblies 250 supported by outer housing 240 on opposing ends of slot 242, a printed circuit board (PCB) 260 engaged with outer housing 240, and a bay housing 270 supported on PCB 260 and extending into slot 242.

[0047] Outer housing 240 is configured for mounting on or within surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) with slot 242 of outer housing 240 exposed to an exterior of surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1), e.g., to permit insertion of plug 186 (FIG. 1) into slot 242. Slot 242 of outer housing 240, morespecifically, is configured to receive at least a portion of plug 186 (FIG. 1) to enable operable coupling (electrically and mechanically) of plug 186 (FIG. 1) with receptacle 230. Although slot 242 is shown in a horizontal orientation wherein a length of slot 242 extends substantially horizontally between the ends of slot 242 and wherein a width of slot 242 (e.g., less than the length of slot 242) extends substantially vertically between the sides of slot 242, other orientations of slot 242 are also contemplated such as, for example, a vertical orientation, an angled orientation, etc. Additionally or alternatively, housing 240 and / or slot 242 may be disposed at an angle relative to a face of housing 202 of surgical generator 200 (see FIG. 1), e.g., partially recessed and / or protruding inwardly, outwardly, to one side, and / or to the other side. Further, the slots 242 of at least two receptacles 230 of surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) may define similar orientations and / or the slots 242 of at least two receptacles 230 of surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) may define different orientations.

[0048] PCB 260, as noted above, is engaged with outer housing 240 (e.g., via screws or other suitable fasteners including adhesives) and supports bay housing 270 thereon. More specifically, PCB 260 is engaged with outer housing 240 such that bay housing 270 is aligned with and extends into slot 242 of outer housing 240, e.g., to enable operable coupling of plug 186 (FIG. 1) with bay housing 270 upon insertion of plug 186 (FIG. 1) into slot 242 of outer housing 240. In aspects, a support body 262 (e.g., a PCB) is disposed on PCB 260 to provide additional structural support, e.g., stiffness, to PCB 260 such as, for example, to inhibit flexion of PCB 260 upon insertion of plug 186 (FIG. 1) into bay housing 270. PCB 260 includes a plurality of circuit traces (not explicitly shown) that electrically connect the internal electronics (e.g., of the various generator modules) of surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) to a plurality of electrical contacts 280 mounted within bay housing 270 to thereby enable operable electrical coupling of plug 186 (FIG. 1) with surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) upon insertion of plug 186 (FIG. 1) into bay housing 270. As an alternative or in addition to PCB 260, other suitable electrical connectors, e.g., ribbon cables, wires, etc., are contemplated for electrically connecting the internal electronics (e.g., of the various generator modules) of surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) to the contacts 280 mounted within bay housing 270. In such aspects, a body may be provided to provide support and stiffness to the connections and contacts 280.

[0049] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, bay housing 270, as noted above, includes a plurality of contacts 280 mounted therein. Bay housing 270, more specifically, defines a firstbay 272, a second bay 274, and a third bay 276 extending in end-to-end orientation along a first axis “X” (e.g., a horizontal axis, based on the orientation illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3). First and second bays 272, 274 are separated by a first partition 273 of bay housing 270 and second and third bays 274, 276 are separated by a second partition 275 of bay housing 270. First and second partitions 273, 275 (and, in aspects, the entirety of bay housing 270) are formed from an electrically insulative material or otherwise configured to define an electrically insulative barrier between bays 272, 274, 276. First, second, and third bays 272, 274, 276 include first, second, and third sets of contacts 282, 284, 286, respectively, of the plurality of contacts 280 mounted within bay housing 270. More specifically, first set of contacts 282 of first bay 272 includes plural upper contacts 283a disposed on a ceiling of first bay 272 and plural lower contacts 283b disposed on a floor of first bay 272; second set of contacts 284 of second bay 274 includes plural upper contacts 285a disposed on a ceiling of second bay 274 and plural lower contacts 285b disposed on a floor of second bay 274; and third set of contacts 286 of third bay 276 includes plural upper contacts 287a disposed on a ceiling of third bay 276 and plural lower contacts 287b disposed on a floor of third bay 276. First, second, and third bays 272, 274, 276, including the positionings of respective upper contacts 283a, 285a, 287a and lower contacts 283b, 285b, 287b thereof, are symmetrical about first axis “X.”

[0050] First, second, and third bays 272, 274, 276, including the positioning of first, second, and third sets of contacts 282, 284, 286, respectively, thereof, are also symmetrical about a second axis “Y” (e.g., a vertical axis, based on the orientation illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3) perpendicular to first axis “X.” Further, at least one contact (in aspects, a plurality of contacts, or all contacts) of first set of contacts 282 of first bay 272 is offset, e.g., along first axis “X,” from a center of first bay 272 towards a first end of bay housing 270 and at least one contact (in aspects, a plurality of contacts, or all contacts) of third set of contacts 286 of third bay 276 is offset, e.g., along first axis “X,” from a center of third bay 276 towards a second, opposite end of bay housing 270 (thus maintaining the above-noted symmetry). As a result, in addition to the spacings between bays 272, 274, 276 provided by partitions 273, 275, the offsetting of the at least one contact of first and third sets of contacts 282, 286, creates contact voids to establish increased spacing between the at least one contact of first set of contacts 282 and second set of contacts 284 and between the at least one contact of third set of contacts 286 and second set of contacts 284 without requiring an increase in a collective length, along axis “X,” of first, second, and third bays 272, 274, 276 (includingpartitions 273, 275). Thus, the length of the operative portion of plug 186 (FIG. 1) need not be increased to enable this spacing. Second set of contacts 284, owing to the symmetrical configuration detailed above, are centered within second bay 274 and, thus, relative to first and third sets of contacts 282, 286 as well as first and third bays 272, 276.

[0051] As detailed above, the physical positionings of the contacts of first, second, and third sets of contacts 282, 284, 286, respectively, are symmetrical about first and second axes “X” and “Y.” With respect to the electrical connections to the contacts of first, second, and third sets of contacts 282, 284, 286 (and, thus, the signals communicated therethrough), each upper contact of upper contacts 283a, 285a, 287a has a corresponding lower contact of lower contacts 283b, 285b, 287b that defines the same electrical connection (e.g., to enable communication of the same signals therethrough). The term “same electrical connection,” as utilized in this context, refers to the fact that the contacts are ultimately connected to the same component(s) of surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) to enable the same signals to be communicated therethrough. “Same electrical connection” may, but does not require, shared physical electrical pathways. In aspects, plug 186 (FIG. 5) may include contacts on both the upper and lower portions to correspond to the upper contacts 283 a, 285a, 287a and the lower contacts 283b, 285b, 287b (or vice versa, in the opposite orientation). The pairs of contact connections between the upper and lower contacts of the plug 186 (FIG. 5) and receptacle 230 (or vice versa) may be provided in parallel for redundancy and / or to enable additional current carrying capability. Alternatively or additionally, upper contacts 283a, 285a, 287a and lower contacts 283b, 285b, 287b may be configured by surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) to support different signal functions when a plug 186 (FIG. 5) having both upper and lower contacts is connected, thus doubling the available signals for instrument configuration, energy transmission, and communications.

[0052] The upper and lower contacts 283a, 285a, 287a and 283b, 285b, 287b of each pair of corresponding contacts are mirrored about second axis “Y” such that, for example, an upper, outermost contact on one side of second axis “Y” and a lower, outer-most contact on the opposite side of second axis “Y” define the same electrical connection. In aspects, a central pair of contacts are aligned on second axis “Y.” In other aspects, no contacts are aligned on second axis “Y.”

[0053] The above-detailed physical symmetries of first, second, and third bays 272, 274, 276 (including the positioning of first, second, and third sets of contacts 282, 284, 286) together with the corresponding contacts of each pair of contacts having the same electrical connection, enablesplug 186 (FIG. 1) to be inserted into and operably coupled within receptacle 230 in either a first orientation or a second orientation rotated 180 degrees relative to the first orientation. For example, plug 186 (FIG. 1) may be inserted into receptacle 230 in a face-up orientation to electrically connect to the upper contacts 283a, 285a, 287a or may be inserted into receptacle 230 in a face-down orientation to electrically connect to the lower contacts 283b, 285b, 287b without compromising functionality.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, as noted above, receptacle 230 includes a pair of engagement assemblies 250 supported by outer housing 240 on opposing ends of slot 242. However, in other configurations, only one engagement assembly 250 is provided. Alternatively or additionally, one or more engagement assemblies 250 may be oriented on opposing sides of slot 242. Engagement assemblies 250 are the same as one another (e.g., to enable insertion and mechanical engagement of plug 186 (FIG. 1) within receptacle 230 in either of the above- noted orientations) and, thus, reference hereinbelow is made to one engagement assembly 250 (in the singular).

[0055] Engagement assembly 250 includes a cartridge 252 engaged to or formed as part of outer housing 240 of receptacle 230, a spring pin 254 slidably received within cartridge 252, and a biasing member 256 (e.g., a compression spring) biasing spring pin 254 from cartridge 252 inwardly into slot 242 of outer housing 240 of receptacle 230. Spring pin 254, in aspects, includes a pin body 255a defining a free end 255b, and a collar 255c disposed about pin body 255a. Collar 255c is configured to operably retain spring pin 254 within cartridge 252 and also to provide a stop surface for biasing member 256 (e.g., against which biasing member 256 urges spring pin 254 inwardly into slot 242). Free end 255b of spring pin 254 defines a rounded or otherwise tapered configuration to facilitate smooth sliding along a portion of plug 186 (FIG. 1 ). Alternatively, collar 255c may be disposed over free end 255b of spring pin 254 and may include a protrusion or other suitable feature that functions similar to free end 255b, e.g., to facilitate sliding and engagement with plug 186 (FIG. 1). Further, in aspects, spring pin 254 includes a washer 255d disposed at an end of pin body 255a opposite free end 255b to retain biasing member 256 about pin body 255a. In such configurations, collar 255c and / or washer 255d may be engaged with pin body 255a after placement of biasing member 256 about pin body 255a during assembly.

[0056] With additional reference to FIG. 5, during insertion of plug 186 into receptacle 230, opposing side edges 516 of plug housing 510 of plug 186 contact and urge spring pins 254 ofengagement assemblies 250 outwardly from slot 242 (farther into cartridges 252 and against the bias of biasing members 256). Upon sufficient insertion of plug 186 into receptacle 230, spring pins 254 align with notches 518 defined within opposing side edges 516 of plug housing 510 of plug 186 such that free ends 255b of spring pins 254 are urged, under the bias of biasing members 256, into notches 518 to thereby releasably engage (and maintain the operable electrical coupling of) plug 186 within receptacle 230. The configuration of notches 518 and free ends 255b of spring pin 254, and the biasing forces provided by biasing members 256, are sufficient to retain plug 186 in engagement within receptacle 230 despite typical vibration and jostling of plug 186 while also facilitating the insertion (into engagement) and removal (for disengagement) of plug 186 from receptacle 230.

[0057] In aspects, engagement assemblies 250 are configured to produce audible and / or tactile feedback in response to engagement of spring pins 254 within notches 518 (e.g., upon engagement of plug 186 within receptacle 230) and in response to disengagement of spring pins 254 from notches 518 (e.g., upon disengagement of plug 186 from receptacle 230), thus alerting the user that plug 186 has been successfully engaged or disengaged. Engagement assemblies 250 enable the above-noted engagement and disengagement of plug 186 to and from receptacle 230 in both the face-up orientation as well as the face-down orientation.

[0058] Turing to FIGS. 5 and 6, plug 186 includes a plug housing 510 and a body (e.g., a PCB 520 or other suitable contact-supporting structure(s)) engaged within and protruding from a front end 511 a of plug housing 510. Cable 184 of connector assembly 180 (see FIG. 1 ) extends through rear end 511b of plug housing 510 into the interior of plug housing 510 wherein the internal electrical lead wires (not shown) and / or other electrical connectors of cable 184 (FIG. 1) electrically couple with PCB 520. Plug housing 510, as noted above, defines front and rear ends 511a, 511b, respectively, and also defines face 512, a back (not shown), and opposing side edges 516 extending between front and rear ends 511a, 511b and between the face 512 and the back. Although detailed herein as a face 512 and back for reference purposes, it is understood that plug housing 510 may but need not include any distinction between face 512 and the back; indeed, plug 186 is equally operable in either the face-up orientation or the face-down orientation.

[0059] PCB 520 includes a plurality of contacts 530 disposed along a protruding end portion 522 of PCB 520 that protrudes from front end 511a of plug housing 510. PCB 520 defines a plurality of circuit traces (not explicitly shown) that electrically connect the internal electrical leadwires (not shown) and / or other electrical connectors of cable 184 (FIG. 1) with contacts 530. PCB 520 further includes first and second gaps 524, 526 defined along protruding end portion 522 to divide protruding end portion 522 into first, second, and third tabs 542, 544, 546, wherein first and second tabs 542, 544 are separated by first gap 524, and wherein second and third tabs 544, 546 are separated by second gap 526. Protruding end portion 522 of PCB 520 is symmetrical about second axis “Y.”

[0060] First, second, and third tabs 542, 544, 546 include first, second, and third sets of contacts 552, 554, 556, respectively, of the plurality of contacts 530 of protruding end portion 522 of PCB 520. Contacts 530 may all be disposed on one face of PCB 520, may be split with at least one contact 530 disposed on one face of PCB 520 and at least one other contact 530 disposed on the other face of PCB 520, or may be duplicated on both faces. In aspects, PCB 520 includes contacts 530 in all locations corresponding to the locations of either or both the upper and lower sets of contacts 280 of receptacle 230 (FIGS. 2 and 3). The contacts 530 may be connected for electrical functions in the instrument 100 (FIG. 1) or may be left unconnected if not utilized. Alternatively, only the needed contacts 530 may be provided such that some locations of contacts 280 of receptacle 230 (FIGS. 2 and 3) do not include corresponding contacts 530 of plug 186. In any of the above configurations, plug 186 may be inserted into receptacle 230 and operably engaged therein in either the face-up or face-down orientation due to the pairs of upper and lower contacts 283a, 285a, 287a and 283b, 285b, 287b of receptacle 230 (see FIGS. 2 and 3), as detailed above.

[0061] Contacts 530 may be disposed on PCB 520 via plating or in any other suitable manner. Further, and with momentary reference to FIG. 7, in aspects, a protective layer 590 (e.g., a mask or other suitable protective layer) may be disposed on PCB 520 extending from an edge 523 of protruding end portion 522 of PCB 520 and covering portions (but not the entireties) of contacts 530 to protect and preserve contacts 530 (e.g., during insertion into and removal from receptacle 230 (FIGS. 2 and 3)) without compromising the electrical communication through contacts 530. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5, edge 523 of protruding end portion 522 of PCB 520 may define a taper 528, e.g., chamfer, angle, curve, and / or other suitable taper, to facilitate alignment and insertion of plug 186 into receptacle 230 (FIGS. 2 and 3). In such aspects, contacts 530 may be displaced from taper 528, e.g., such that contacts 530 do not extend into taper 528, although other configurations are also contemplated.

[0062] Referring back to FIGS. 5 and 6, and with additional reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, in aspects, the plurality of contacts 530 includes at least one contact 555 that is set back from edge 523 of protruding end portion 522 of PCB 520 a greater distance than at least one other contact 530 (or that is set back while the at least one other contact 530 is not set back). For example, and without limitation, the outer most contacts 555 of second set of contacts 554 on either end of tab 544 may be set back from edge 523 of protruding end portion 522 of PCB 520 a greater distance than the other contacts of second set of contacts 554. Other configurations are also contemplated. As a result of this configuration, and using the above example, the other contacts of second set of contacts 554 electrically couple to the corresponding contacts 280 of receptacle 230 before the outer most contacts 555 electrically couple to the corresponding contacts 280 of receptacle 230 during insertion of plug 186 into receptacle 230. Further, during withdrawal of plug 186 from receptacle 230, the outer most contacts 555 electrically disconnect from the corresponding contacts 280 of receptacle 230 prior to the electrical disconnection of the other contacts of second set of contacts 554 from the corresponding contacts 280.

[0063] PCB 520 may include and / or operably connect to one or more resistor circuits and / or other suitable features associated with at least some of contacts 530 (including at least one contact 555 and / or at least one non-set back contact) to enable surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) to detect electrical states (e.g., resistances) on at least one contact 280 (or a plurality of contacts 280) that is both different from the electrical state on at least one other contact 280 (or a plurality of other contacts 280) when plug 186 is engaged within receptacle 230 and different from the default state on the at least one contact 280 when plug 186 is not engaged within receptacle 230. This, together with the spatial separation of contacts 530 across the length of PCB 520 and the selective set back of contacts 555 compared to other contacts 530 enables detection of insertion of plug 186, the orientation of plug 186, and whether plug 186 is not properly inserted (e.g., whether plug 186 is not fully inserted or is inserted in a crooked manner). The orientation of plug 186, more specifically, is detectable by surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1), for example, based upon whether the electrical state (or different electrical state) is detected on one or more of the upper contacts 283a, 285a, 287a or on one or more of the lower contacts 283b, 285b, 287b. Upon detection of the orientation of plug 186, surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) may be configured to activate (e.g., for energy and data transmission) either the upper contacts 283a, 285a, 287a (e.g., for the face-up orientation), the lower contacts 283b, 285b, 287b (e.g., for the face-down orientation), or both setsof contacts (e.g., in aspects where plug 186 includes contacts on both the upper and lower portions thereof).

[0064] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 2, 3, 5, and 6, in the face-up orientation of plug 186, first, second, and third tabs 542, 544, 546 of PCB 520 of plug 186 are configured for receipt within first, second, and third bays 272, 274, 276 of receptacle 530 with first and second partitions 273, 275 configured for receipt within first and second gaps 524, 526 of PCB 520. Further, in the face-up orientation of plug 186 and with plug 186 engaged within receptacle 230, first, second, and third sets of contacts 552, 554, 556 electrically connect to upper contacts 283a, 285a, 287a, respectively.

[0065] In the face-down orientation of plug 186, on the other hand, first, second, and third tabs 542, 544, 546 of PCB 520 of plug 186 are configured for receipt within third, second, and first bays 276, 274, 272, respectively, of receptacle 230 with first and second partitions 273, 275 configured for receipt within second and first gaps 526, 524, respectively, of PCB 520. Further, in the face-down orientation of plug 186 and with plug 186 engaged within receptacle 230, third, second, and first sets of contacts 556, 554, 552 electrically connect to lower contacts 283b, 285b, 287b, respectively.

[0066] Since, as detailed above, the upper and lower contacts 283a, 285a, 287a and 283b, 285b, 287b of each pair of corresponding contacts of receptacle 230 are mirrored about second axis “Y,” the same electrical connections to contacts 556, 554, 552 of PCB 520 of plug 186 are made regardless of whether plug 186 is engaged within receptacle 230 in the face-up orientation or the face-down orientation.

[0067] Turning to FIG. 8, in conjunction with FIGS. 2, 3, 5, and 6, in addition to the contact mirroring of the corresponding pairs of upper and lower contacts 283a, 285a, 287a and 283b, 285b, 287b about second axis “Y” to enable engagement of plug 186 within receptacle 230 in the faceup orientation or the face-down orientation, bays 272, 274, 276, partitions 273, 275, and contacts 280 of receptacle 230 are configured to maintain appropriate spacings between the various contacts 280 while minimizing the length (e.g., along first axis “X”) of receptacle 230. Similarly, tabs 542, 544, 546, gaps 524, 526, and contacts 530 of plug 186 are configured to maintain appropriate spacings between the contacts 530 while minimizing the length of plug 186. Maintaining appropriate spacings between the contacts 280, 530 ensures sufficient electrical clearance to inhibit electrical creepage across adjacent or nearby contacts 280, 530. The appropriate spacings betweenthe contacts 280, 530 depend upon the transmissions communicated through the contacts (e.g., energy vs. data, energy level, energy purpose, etc.) and, in certain instances, are set by regulatory standard, as detailed below. Although described below with respect to contacts 280 of receptacle 230, it is understood that the same spacing is provided between contacts 530 of plug 186.

[0068] Continuing with reference to FIG. 8, a contact schematic 800 of the contacts 280 of receptacle 230 is shown. As detailed above, respective pairs of upper and lower contacts 283a, 285a, 287a and 283b, 285b, 287b are mirrored about second axis “Y.” Upper and lower contacts 283a, 283b define a first zone of contacts “Zl” and a second zone of contacts “Z2” separated by a first spacing “SI;” upper and lower contacts 285a, 285b define a third zone of contacts “Z3;” and upper and lower contacts 287a, 287b define a fourth zone of contacts “Z4” and a fifth zone of contacts “Z5” separated by a fourth spacing “S4.” Further, second and third zones “Z2,” “Z3” are separated by a second spacing “S2” and third and fourth zones “Z3,” “Z4” are separated by a third spacing “S3.” In other aspects, second and / or fourth zones “Z2,” “Z4” may be omitted.

[0069] First and fifth zones of contacts “Zl” and “Z5,” respectively, are therapeutic energy zones configured to communicate electrical energy intended for therapeutic use including high frequency surgical energy (e.g., RF energy for transmission to surgical instrument 100 (FIG. 1) for sealing tissue) and / or an ultrasonic drive signal to drive an ultrasonic transducer of an ultrasonic surgical instrument. These zones “Zl” and “Z5” are governed by IEC 60601-1 and, in aspects where zones “Zl” and “Z5” are utilized for transmission of high frequency surgical energy, are further governed by IEC 60601-1 amendments in IEC 60601-2-2. In aspects, the contacts of these zones “Zl” and “Z5” are configurable (e.g., by surgical generator 200 (FIG. 1) based upon the connected instrument) to function as the positive and negative contacts, respectively, for bipolar RF energy transmission, e.g., for sealing (and / or cutting) tissue. In aspects, the contacts of these zones “Zl” and “Z5” are configurable to provide an ultrasonic drive signal to the electrodes associated with an ultrasonic transducer of an ultrasonic surgical instrument to generate ultrasonic energy that is transmitted to an ultrasonic blade for, e.g., sealing and / or cutting tissue. Other configurations are also contemplated.

[0070] Third zone “Z3” is also a therapeutic energy zone and, in aspects, may be configured for monopolar RF output. A DC output provided in third zone “Z3” may be referenced to the therapeutic energy signal in third zone “Z3.” Third zone “Z3” may also include one or more ID contacts (e.g., to connect to the at least one set back contact 555 of plug 186 (see FIGS. 5 and 6))and / or one or more signal contacts (e.g., for data communication or signal communication with other components of the surgical instrument connected to the plug). In aspects, the upper and lower contacts of zone “Z3” include at least four, at least six, or at least eight signal contacts.

[0071] Second and fourth zones of contacts “Z2” and “Z4,” in aspects where provided, may be direct current (DC) output zones. Further, “+” and “1-” contacts of these zones may function as the positive and negative contacts for bipolar RF energy transmission or for communication of an ultrasonic drive signal. Alternatively, the direct current (DC) output zones may be utilized to provide a variable DC voltage for use in the connected instrument.

[0072] First and fourth spacings “SI” and “S4” may be defined by vacated pin positions 810 defined within bays 272 and 276, respectively, while second and third spacings “S2” and “S3” are at least partially defined by partitions 273 and 275, respectively, and may also be defined by vacated pin positions 810 defined within bays 272, 274, and / or 276.

[0073] In aspects, first and fourth spacings “SI” and “S4” are each at least 8 mm to provide suitable electrical clearance and inhibit electrical creepage, e.g., in adherence to IEC 60601-1 clause 8.5.1.

[0074] In aspects, second and third spacings “S2” and “S3” are each at least 4 mm to provide functional separation per IEC 60601-1 clause 8.5.1 and IEC 60601-2-2 clause 201.8.5.1.2

[0075] The sum of first and second spacings “SI” and “S2” and, similarly the sum of third and fourth spacings “S3” and “S4,” in aspects, are each at least 12 mm for patient protection, as provided by IEC 60601-2-2 clause 201.8.5.1.2 (e.g., where one or more first therapeutic zone contacts reaches peak voltages of 4kv above that of one or more second therapeutic zone contacts).

[0076] The above-detailed contact configuration 800 enables the functionality of the plurality of contacts (including plural surgical energy contacts) with appropriate spacings, while minimizing the length (along first axis “X”) of the contact configuration 800. More specifically, the length of contact configuration 800 (along first axis “X” and between the outer-most contacts) may be, in aspects, no greater than 50 mm; in other aspects, no greater than 47 mm; and in still other aspects, no greater than 44 mm. In any of the above configurations, multiple spacings of at least 4 mm (e.g., two 4 mm spacings) and multiple spacings of at least 8mm (e.g., two 8 mm spacings) are provided. In addition, and without taking away from the above, contact configuration 800 provides contact mirroring to enable receipt of plug 186 (FIGS. 5 and 6) in each of a face-up orientation and a face-down orientation, as detailed above.

[0077] The disclosure is further described in the following numbered examples.

[0078] Example 1. A receptacle of a surgical generator, comprising: at least one bay disposed along a first axis and defining a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; and a plurality of contacts disposed within the at least one bay and including: a plurality of first contacts disposed within the at least one bay on a first side of the first axis; and a plurality of second contacts disposed within the at least one bay on a second, opposite side of the first axis, wherein the plurality of first contacts and the plurality of second contacts are symmetrically positioned relative to the first axis, wherein the plurality of contacts defines a plurality of pairs of contacts, each pair of contacts including a first contact of the plurality of first contacts and a second contact of the plurality of second contacts that is disposed an equal distance from the second axis as the first contact of that pair of contacts, the first and second contacts of each pair of contacts configured to provide the same electrical function to enable operable receipt of a plug within the at least one bay in each of a first orientation and second orientation rotated 180 degrees relative to the first orientation.

[0079] Example 2. The receptacle according to example 1, wherein the at least one bay includes a plurality of bays disposed along the first axis, each pair of adjacent bays of the plurality of bays separated by a partition.

[0080] Example 3. The receptacle according to example 1, wherein the at least one bay is symmetrical about each of the first axis and the second axis.

[0081] Example 4. The receptacle according to example 1, wherein the electrical connections for at least three of the pairs of contacts are for surgical energy.

[0082] Example 5. The receptacle according to example 4, wherein the at least three of the pairs of contacts are spaced-apart along the first axis to inhibit electrical creepage.

[0083] Example 6. The receptacle according to example 4, wherein the surgical energy includes at least one of RF therapeutic energy or an ultrasonic drive signal.

[0084] Example 7. The receptacle according to example 1, further comprising at least one engagement assembly configured to releasably engage a plug inserted into the at least one bay.

[0085] Example 8. A plug of a surgical instrument, comprising: a housing; a body disposed within the housing and including a protruding portion extending from the housing to an edge, the body defining a first axis extending between opposing ends of the protruding portion, the protruding portion protruding from the housing to the edge along a second axis perpendicular tothe first axis; and a plurality of contacts disposed on the protruding portion of the body and extending along the first axis, the plurality of contacts symmetrically positioned relative to the second axis, wherein a first contact of the plurality of contacts on a first side of the second axis is farther from the edge relative to other contacts of the plurality of contacts on the first side of the second axis, wherein a second contact of the plurality of contacts on a second, opposite side of the second axis is farther from the edge relative to other contacts of the plurality of contacts on the second side of the second axis.

[0086] Example 9. The plug according to example 8, wherein the protruding portion of the body includes a plurality of tabs, wherein a gap separates adjacent tabs of the plurality of tabs, and wherein at least one contact of the plurality of contacts is disposed on each tab of the plurality of tabs.

[0087] Example 10. The plug according to example 9, wherein at least two tabs of the plurality of tabs include contacts of the plurality of contacts configured to receive surgical energy from a surgical generator.

[0088] Example 11. The plug according to example 8, further comprising a protective layer disposed on the body and extending from the edge towards the housing to cover a portion of each contact of the plurality of contacts.

[0089] Example 12. The plug according to example 8, wherein the housing includes at least one engagement notch configured to facilitate engagement of the housing with a receptacle of a surgical generator.

[0090] Example 13. The plug according to example 8, wherein the body is a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0091] Example 14. A surgical system, comprising: a surgical generator including a receptacle, the receptacle having a plurality of receptacle contacts including a plurality of first receptacle contacts disposed on a first side of a first axis and a plurality of second receptacle contacts disposed on a second, opposite side of the first axis, wherein the plurality of receptacle contacts defines a plurality of pairs of contacts, each pair of contacts including a first receptacle contact of the plurality of first receptacle contacts and a second receptacle contact of the plurality of second receptacle contacts that is disposed an equal distance from a second axis perpendicular to the first axis as the first receptacle contact of that pair of contacts, the first and second receptacle contacts of each pair of contacts having the same electrical connection; and a surgical instrumentincluding a plug configured for insertion into the receptacle, the plug including a plurality of plug contacts, wherein the plug is insertable into the receptacle in a first orientation to electrically connect the plurality of plug contacts to the plurality of first receptacle contacts and in a second orientation to electrically connect the plurality of plug contacts to the plurality of second receptacle contacts, wherein the second orientation is rotated 180 degrees relative to the first orientation, and wherein the same electrical function is provided from the surgical generator to the plug in each of the first and second orientations.

[0092] Example 15. The surgical system according to example 14, wherein the receptacle includes a plurality of bays separated by partitions and wherein the plug includes a plurality of tabs separated by gaps, wherein, upon insertion of the plug into the receptacle, the tabs are configured for receipt within the bays and the partitions are configured for receipt within the gaps.

[0093] Example 16. The surgical system according to example 14, wherein the receptacle includes at least one engagement assembly configured to releasably engage the plug upon insertion of the plug into the receptacle.

[0094] Example 17. The surgical system according to example 14, wherein the plurality of plug contacts is symmetrically positioned relative to the second axis.

[0095] Example 18. The surgical system according to example 14, wherein the plurality of receptacle contacts is symmetrically positioned relative to each of the first axis and the second axis.

[0096] Example 19. The surgical system according to example 14, wherein at least one plug contact of the plurality of plug contacts is set back relative to other plug contacts of the plurality of plug contacts such that the at least one plug contact electrically connects to a corresponding receptacle contact of the plurality of receptacle contacts last upon insertion of the plug into the receptacle and electrically disconnects from the corresponding receptacle contact of the plurality of receptacle contacts first upon removal of the plug from the receptacle.

[0097] Example 20. The surgical system according to example 14, wherein the surgical generator is configured to determine whether the plug is disposed in the first orientation or the second orientation in response to insertion of the plug into the receptacle.

[0098] While several aspects of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above 1description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular configurations. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A receptacle (230) of a surgical generator (200), comprising: at least one bay (272, 274, 276) disposed along a first axis (“X”) and defining a second axis (“Y”) perpendicular to the first axis (“X”); and a plurality of contacts (280) disposed within the at least one bay (272, 274, 276) and characterized in that: a plurality of first contacts (283a, 285a, 287a) is disposed within the at least one bay (272, 274, 276) on a first side of the first axis (“X”); and a plurality of second contacts (283b, 285b, 287b) is disposed within the at least one bay (272, 274, 276) on a second, opposite side of the first axis (“X”), wherein the plurality of first contacts (283a, 285a, 287a) and the plurality of second contacts (283b, 285b, 287b) are symmetrically positioned relative to the first axis (“X”), and wherein the plurality of contacts (280) defines a plurality of pairs of contacts, each pair of contacts including a first contact of the plurality of first contacts (283a, 285a, 287a) and a second contact of the plurality of second contacts (283b, 285b, 287b) that is disposed an equal distance from the second axis (“Y”) as the first contact of that pair of contacts, the first and second contacts of each pair of contacts configured to provide the same electrical function to enable operable receipt of a plug (186) within the at least one bay (272, 274, 276) in each of a first orientation and second orientation rotated 180 degrees relative to the first orientation.

2. The receptacle (230) according to paragraph 1, wherein the at least one bay (272, 274, 276) includes a plurality of bays (272, 274, 276)) disposed along the first axis (“X”), each pair of adjacent bays (272, 274, 276) of the plurality of bays (272, 274, 276) separated by a partition (273, 275).

3. The receptacle (230) according to paragraph 1 or 2, wherein the at least one bay (272, 274, 276) is symmetrical about each of the first axis (“X”) and the second axis (“Y”).

4. The receptacle (230) according to any one of paragraphs 1-3, wherein the electrical connections for at least three of the pairs of contacts are for surgical energy.

5. The receptacle (230) according to paragraph 4, wherein the at least three of the pairs of contacts are spaced-apart along the first axis (“X”) to inhibit electrical creepage.

6. The receptacle (230) according to paragraph 4 or 5, wherein the surgical energy includes at least one of RF therapeutic energy or an ultrasonic drive signal.

7. The receptacle (230) according to any preceding paragraph, further comprising at least one engagement assembly (250) configured to releasably engage a plug (186) inserted into the at least one bay (272, 274, 276).

8. A plug (186) of a surgical instrument (100), comprising: a housing (510); a body (520) disposed within the housing (510) and including a protruding portion (522) extending from the housing (510) to an edge (523), the body (520) defining a first axis extending between opposing ends of the protruding portion (522), the protruding portion (522) protruding from the housing (510) to the edge (523) along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; and a plurality of contacts (580) disposed on the protruding portion (522) of the body (520) and extending along the first axis, characterized in that: the plurality of contacts (580) are symmetrically positioned relative to the second axis, wherein a first contact of the plurality of contacts (580) on a first side of the second axis is farther from the edge (523) relative to other contacts of the plurality of contacts (580) on the first side of the second axis, wherein a second contact of the plurality of contacts (580) on a second, opposite side of the second axis is farther from the edge (523) relative to other contacts of the plurality of contacts (580) on the second side of the second axis.

9. The plug (186) according to paragraph 8, wherein the protruding portion (522) of the body (520) includes a plurality of tabs (542, 544, 546), wherein a gap (524, 526) separates adjacent tabs (542, 544, 546) of the plurality of tabs (542, 544, 546), and wherein at least one contact of the plurality of contacts (580) is disposed on each tab (542, 544, 546) of the plurality of tabs (542, 544, 546).

10. The plug (186) according to paragraph 9, wherein at least two tabs (542, 544, 546) of the plurality of tabs (542, 544, 546) include contacts of the plurality of contacts (580) configured to receive surgical energy from a surgical generator (200).

11. The plug (186) according to any one of paragraphs 8-10, further comprising a protective layer (590) disposed on the body (520) and extending from the edge (523) towards the housing (510) to cover a portion of each contact of the plurality of contacts (580).

12. The plug (186) according to any one of paragraphs 8-11, wherein the housing (510) includes at least one engagement notch (518) configured to facilitate engagement of the housing (510) with a receptacle (230) of a surgical generator (200).

13. The plug (186) according to any one of paragraphs 8-12, wherein the body (520) is a printed circuit board (PCB).

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