BR112016021840B1 - SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT - Google Patents

Abstract

power management through segmented circuit sleep and wake control options. the present description relates to a surgical instrument control circuit. the control circuit includes a primary processor, a safety processor in signal communication with the primary processor, and a segmented circuit. the segmented circuit includes a plurality of circuit segments in signal communication with the primary processor. the plurality of circuit segments includes a power segment. the security processor is configured to transition the primary processor and at least one of the plurality of circuit segments from an active mode to a standby mode and from a standby mode to an active mode.

Description

BACKGROUND

[001] The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various circumstances, to surgical stapling and cutting instruments, and staple cartridges therefor, which are designed to clamp and cut tissue.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[002] The features and advantages of this invention, and the manner of obtaining them, will become more apparent, and the invention itself will be better understood, by referring to the following description of cases of the invention, considered in conjunction with the drawings in attachment, in which:

[003] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a surgical instrument comprising a power supply assembly, a handle assembly and an interchangeable shaft assembly.

[004] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the surgical instrument of Figure 1 with the interchangeable shaft assembly separated from the handle assembly.

[005] Figure 3 is a circuit diagram of the surgical instrument of Figure 1.

[006] Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of a segmented circuit comprising a plurality of circuit segments configured to control a powered surgical instrument.

[007] Figure 5 illustrates a segmented circuit comprising a security processor configured to implement a surveillance function.

[008] Figure 6 illustrates a block diagram of a modality of a segmented circuit that comprises a security processor configured to monitor and compare a first property and a second property of a surgical instrument.

[009] Figure 7 illustrates a block diagram illustrating a security process configured to be implemented by a security processor.

[0010] Figure 8 illustrates an embodiment of a four by four multi-switch comprising four input/output pins.

[0011] Figure 9 illustrates an embodiment of a four by four circuit comprising an input/output pin.

[0012] Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of a segmented circuit comprising a four by four multiple switch coupled to a primary processor.

[0013] Figure 11 illustrates an embodiment of a process to sequentially energize a segmented circuit.

[0014] Figure 12 illustrates one embodiment of a power supply segment comprising a plurality of series-connected power converters.

[0015] Figure 13 illustrates a modality of a segmented circuit configured to maximize the energy available for critical and/or power intensive functions.

[0016] Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment of a power supply system that comprises a plurality of series-connected power converters configured to be energized sequentially.

[0017] Figure 15 illustrates an embodiment of a segmented circuit that comprises an isolated control section.

[0018] Figure 16 illustrates a modality of a segmented circuit that comprises an accelerometer.

[0019] Figure 17 illustrates a mode of a process for sequential initialization of a segmented circuit.

[0020] Figure 18 illustrates one embodiment of a method 1950 for controlling a surgical instrument that comprises a segmented circuit, such as, for example, the segmented control circuit 1602 illustrated in Figure 12.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The applicant of this application is the author of the following patent applications that were filed on March 1, 2013 and which are all incorporated herein by reference in their entirety:

[0022] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,295, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CONDUCTIVE PATHWAYS FOR SIGNAL COMMUNICATION";

[0023] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,323, entitled "ROTARY POWERED ARTICULATION JOINTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

[0024] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,338, entitled "THUMBWHEEL SWITCH ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

[0025] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,499, entitled "ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL DEVICE WITH SIGNAL RELAY ARRANGEMENT";

[0026] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,460, entitled MULTIPLE PROCESSOR MOTOR CONTROL FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[0027] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,358, entitled "JOYSTICK SWITCH ASSEMBLIES FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

[0028] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,481, entitled SENSOR STRAIGHTENED END EFFECTOR DURING REMOVAL THROUGH TROCAR;

[0029] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,518, entitled "CONTROL METHODS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH REMOVABLE IMPLEMENT PORTIONS";

[0030] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,375, entitled "ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE DEGREES OF FREEDOM"; and

[0031] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,536 entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SOFT STOP are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0032] The applicant of the present application is also the author of the following patent applications that were filed on March 14, 2013 and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[0033] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,097, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN FIRING DRIVE;

[0034] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,193, entitled CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT;

[0035] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,053, entitled INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT;

[0036] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK";

[0037] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,210, entitled SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[0038] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,148, entitled MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT;

[0039] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,066, entitled DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[0040] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,117, entitled ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[0041] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,130, entitled DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS; and

[0042] - US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,159, entitled METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT.

[0043] The applicant of the present application also holds the following patent applications which were filed on the same date as the present application and which are each incorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties:

[0044] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM (Attorney's Document No. END7386USNP/130458);

[0045] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, Attorney Document No. END7387USNP/130459;

[0046] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT, Attorney Document No. END7388USNP/130460;

[0047] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES/PROCEDURE COUNT, Attorney Document No. END7389USNP/130461;

[0048] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND WAKE UP CONTROL, Attorney Document No. END7390USNP/130462;

[0049] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES, Attorney Document No. END7391USNP/130463;

[0050] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, Attorney Document No. END7392USNP/130464;

[0051] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION, Attorney Document No. END7393USNP/130465;

[0052] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETY PROCESSOR, Attorney Document No. END7394USNP/130466;

[0053] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS, Attorney Document No. END7395USNP/130467;

[0054] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, Attorney Document No. END7396USNP/130468;

[0055] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM, Attorney Document No. END7397USNP/130469;

[0056] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SEGMENTED CIRCUIT, Attorney Document No. END7399USNP/130471;

[0057] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLE VOLTAGE PROTECTION, Attorney Document No. END7400USNP/130472;

[0058] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM, Attorney Document No. END7401USNP/130473; and

[0059] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT, Attorney Document No. END7402USNP/130474.

[0060] Certain exemplifying modalities will now be described to provide a general understanding of the principles of structure, function, fabrication and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of such embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are exemplary non-limiting embodiments. Features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0061] Throughout this specification, the terms "several modalities", "some modalities", "one modality" or "the modality", or the like, mean that a specific feature, structure or characteristic described together with the modality is included in at least one modality. Thus, the appearance of the expressions "in several modalities", "in some modalities", "in a modality" or "in the modality", or similar, in places throughout the descriptive report are not necessarily referring to the same modality. . In addition, specific features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable way in one or more modalities. Therefore, the specific features, structures or characteristics illustrated or described in conjunction with one modality may be combined, in whole or in part, with the structures of the features or characteristics of one or more other modality, without limitation. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0062] The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used in the present invention with reference to a physician who manipulates the handle portion of the surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the portion closest to the physician, and the term "distal" refers to the portion located away from the physician. It will also be understood that, for the sake of convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical", "horizontal", "upwards" and "downwards" may be used in the present invention in connection with the drawings. However, surgical instruments can be used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.

[0063] Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, one of skill in the art will readily understand that the various methods and devices disclosed herein can be used in numerous surgical procedures and applications including, for example, those in conjunction with open surgical procedures. As the present Detailed Description advances, those of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that the various instruments disclosed herein can be inserted into a body in any manner, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or perforation formed in tissue, etc. . Functional portions or end actuator portions of instruments may be inserted directly into a patient's body or may be inserted through an access device having a working channel through which the end actuator and elongated stem of a surgical instrument can be advanced.

[0064] Figures 1 to 3 generally represent a motor-driven clamping and cutting surgical instrument 2000. As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the surgical instrument 2000 may include a handle assembly 2002, a shaft assembly 2004, and a 2006 power pack ("power supply", "power unit", or "battery"). Shaft assembly 2004 may include an end actuator 2008 which, in certain circumstances, may be configured to act as an endocutter for clamping, cutting, separating, and/or stapling tissue, although, in other embodiments, different types of end actuators can be used as end actuators for other types of surgical devices, grippers, cutters, staplers, clip appliers, access devices, pharmacological/gene therapy devices, ultrasound devices, radio frequency devices, and/or devices to laser, for example. Various radio frequency devices can be found in US Patent No. 5,403,312, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE, which was granted on April 4, 1995, and in US Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,573, entitled SURGICAL FASTENING AND CUTTING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES, filed February 14, 2008, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0065] Referring primarily to Figures 2 and 3, the handle assembly 2002 may be employed with a plurality of interchangeable shaft assemblies such as, for example, the shaft assembly 2004. Such interchangeable shaft assemblies may comprise surgical end actuators such as the 2008 End Actuator that can be configured to perform one or more surgical tasks or procedures. Examples of suitable interchangeable axle assemblies are disclosed in US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/782,866, titled CONTROL SYSTEM OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, and filed March 14, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference to its totality.

[0066] Referring primarily to Figure 2, the cable assembly 2002 may comprise a housing 2010 consisting of a cable 2012 that can be configured to be held, manipulated and actuated by a physician. However, it will be understood that various unique and innovative arrangements of the various forms of interchangeable shaft assemblies presented herein can also be effectively employed in connection with robotically controlled surgical systems. Accordingly, the term "compartment" may also encompass a compartment or similar portion of a robotic system that houses or in any way supports at least one drive system configured to generate and apply at least one control motion that can be used to drive the interchangeable rod assemblies described in the present invention and their respective equivalents. For example, the interchangeable axle assemblies presented herein can be employed with various robotic systems, instruments, components, and methods disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/118,241 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS, now published by US Patent Application No. 2012/0298719, incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

[0067] Again with reference to Figure 2, the cable assembly 2002 can operationally support a plurality of drive systems that can be configured to generate and apply various control movements to corresponding portions of the interchangeable shaft assembly that is operatively attached to it . For example, cable assembly 2002 may operatively support a first drive system or closing drive system, which may be employed to apply closing and opening motions to shaft assembly 2004 while operationally attached or coupled to cable assembly 2002. In at least one form, the cable assembly 2002 may operatively support a trigger drive system that can be configured to apply trigger motions to corresponding portions of the interchangeable shaft assembly attached thereto.

[0068] Referring mainly to Figure 3, the cable assembly 2002 may include a motor 2014, which can be controlled by a driver of the motor 2015 and may be employed by the triggering system of the surgical instrument 2000. In various forms. , the 2014 motor can be a drive motor with direct current brushes, with a maximum rotation of approximately 25,000 RPM, for example. In other arrangements, the 2014 motor may include a brushless motor, a wireless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable type of electric motor. Under certain circumstances, the motor driver 2015 may comprise an H-bridge field effect transistor (FET) 2019, as illustrated in Figure 3, for example. Motor 2014 may be powered by power pack 2006 (Figure 3) which can be releasably mounted to cable assembly 2002 to supply control power to surgical instrument 2000. Power pack 2006 may comprise a battery which may include several series-connected battery cells, which can be used as the power source to power the surgical instrument 2000. Under certain circumstances, the battery cells in the 2006 power pack may be replaceable and/or rechargeable. In at least one example, the battery cells may be lithium-ion batteries that may be detachably attachable to the 2006 power pack.

[0069] The 2004 Axis Assembly may include a 2022 Axis Assembly Controller that can communicate with the 2016 Power Management Controller through an interface while the 2004 Axis Assembly and 2006 Power Assembly are coupled to the 2006 Axis Assembly. cable 2002. For example, the interface may comprise a first interface portion 2025 which may include one or more electrical connectors for mating engagement with the corresponding electrical connectors of the axle assembly and a second interface portion 2027 which may include one or more electrical connectors for mating engagement with the corresponding electrical connectors on the power pack to allow electrical communication between the 2022 axle assembly controller and the 2016 power management controller while the 2004 axle assembly and 2006 power assembly are mated to the 2002 cable assembly. One or more communication signals can be transmitted through the interface to transmit one or more of the power requirements of the 2004 interchangeable shaft assembly attached to the 2016 power management controller. In response, the power management controller can modulate the battery power output of the 2006 power assembly as described below in more detail, according to the power requirements of the fixed 2004 axle assembly. In certain circumstances, one or more of the electrical connectors may comprise switches that may be activated upon mechanical coupling of the cable assembly 2002 to the shaft assembly 2004 and/or the power assembly 2006 to allow electrical communication between the axis 2022 and power management controller 2016.

[0070] Under certain circumstances, the interface can facilitate the transmission of one or more communication signals between the 2016 power management controller and the 2022 axis assembly controller by routing these communication signals through a 2017 main controller residing in the cable set 2002, for example. In other circumstances, the interface can facilitate a direct line of communication between the 2016 power management controller and the 2022 axle assembly controller through the 2002 cable assembly while the 2004 axle assembly and 2006 power assembly are coupled to the 2002 cable set.

[0071] In one case, the 2017 main microcontroller can be any single-core or multi-core processor, such as those known under the trade name ARM Cortex by Texas Instruments. In one case, the surgical instrument 2000 may comprise a power management controller 2016 such as, for example, a safety microcontroller platform comprising two microcontroller-based families such as TMS570 and RM4x known under the trade name Hercules ARM Cortex R4, also by Texas Instruments. However, other suitable substitutes for microcontrollers and security processors can be employed, without limitation. In one case, the security processor can be configured specifically for security critical applications IEC 61508 and ISO 26262, among others, to provide advanced built-in security features while providing scalable performance, connectivity, and memory options.

[0072] In certain cases, the 2017 microcontroller may be an LM 4F230H5QR, available from Texas Instruments, for example. In at least one example, the Texas Instruments LM4F230H5QR is an ARM Cortex-M4F processor core comprising an integrated 256 KB single-cycle flash memory, or other non-volatile memory, up to 40 MHz, a transfer buffer for optimize performance above 40 MHz, a 32 KB single-cycle serial random access memory (SRAM), internal read-only memory (ROM) loaded with the StellarisWare® program, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) of 2 KB, one or more pulse width modulation (PWM) modules, one or more analog quadrature encoder (QEI) input, one or more 12-bit analog-to-digital (ADC) converters with 12 input channels analogue devices, among other features that are readily available for the product data sheet. The present disclosure should not be limited in this context.

[0073] The 2006 power package may include a power management circuit which may comprise the power management controller 2016, a power modulator 2038, and a current sensing circuit 2036. The power management circuit may be configured to modulate battery power output based on the power needs of the 2004 axle assembly while the 2004 axle assembly and 2006 power assembly are coupled to the 2002 cable assembly. For example, the 2016 power management controller can be programmed to control the power modulator 2038 of the power output of the power pack 2006 and the current sensing circuit 2036 can be employed to monitor the power output of the power pack 2006 to provide feedback to the power management controller 2016 about the battery power output so that the power management controller 2016 can adjust the power output of the 2006 power pack to maintain a desired output.

[0074] It is noteworthy that the power management controller 2016 and/or the axis assembly controller 2022 may each comprise one or more processors and/or memory units that can store various software modules. While certain modules and/or blocks of the surgical instrument 2000 may be described by way of example, it will be understood that a greater or lesser number of modules and/or blocks may be used. Additionally, although various cases may be described in terms of modules and/or blocks for ease of description, these modules and/or blocks may be implemented by one or more hardware components, e.g. processors, digital signal processors (DSPs) , programmable logic devices (PLDs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), circuits, registers, and/or software components, eg, programs, subroutines, logic, and/or combinations of hardware and software components.

[0075] In certain cases, the surgical instrument 2000 may comprise an output device 2042 which may include one or more devices for providing sensory feedback to a user. Such devices may comprise, for example, visual feedback devices (eg, an LCD screen display, LED indicators), auditory feedback devices (eg, a loudspeaker, a bell) or tactile feedback devices ( e.g. haptic actuators). In certain circumstances, output device 2042 may comprise a display 2043 which may be included in cable assembly 2002. Axis assembly controller 2022 and/or power management controller 2016 may provide feedback to a user of the surgical instrument 2000 via output device 2042. Interface 2024 can be configured to connect axis assembly controller 2022 and/or power management controller 2016 to output device 2042. The reader will appreciate that output device 2042 can, instead, be integrated with the power supply assembly 2006. Under these circumstances, communication between the output device 2042 and the controller of the axle assembly 2022 can be done through the interface 2024 while the axle assembly 2004 is coupled to the assembly of cable 2002.

[0076] Having described a Surgical Instrument 2000 in general terms, the description now turns to a detailed description of various electrical/electronic components of the Surgical Instrument 2000. For convenience, any references below to the Surgical Instrument 2000 should be considered to refer to the Surgical Instrument 2000. surgical instrument 2000 shown in relation to Figures 1 to 3. Reference is now made to Figure 4, where an embodiment of a segmented circuit 1000 comprising a plurality of circuit segments 1002a-1002g is illustrated. Segmented circuit 1000 comprising the plurality of circuit segments 1002a-1002g is configured to control a powered surgical instrument, such as, for example, surgical instrument 2000 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, without limitation. The plurality of circuit segments 1002a-1002g are configured to control one or more operations of the powered surgical instrument 2000. A security processor segment 1002a (segment 1) comprises a security processor 1004. A primary processor segment 1002b (segment 2) ) comprises a primary processor 1006. The security processor 1004 and/or the primary processor 1006 are configured to interact with one or more additional circuit segments 1002c-1002g to control the operation of the powered surgical instrument 2000. The primary processor 1006 comprises a plurality of inputs coupled, for example, to one or more circuit segments 1002c-1002g, a battery 1008, and/or a plurality of switches 1058a-1070. The segmented circuit 1000 may be implemented by any suitable circuit, such as a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) within the energized surgical instrument 2000. It should be understood that the term processor, as used herein, includes any microprocessor, microcontroller, or other basic computing device that incorporates the functions of a computer's central processing unit (CPU) into an integrated circuit or at most a few integrated circuits. The processor is a multipurpose programmable device that accepts digital data as input, processes it according to instructions stored in its memory, and outputs results. This is an example of sequential digital logic as it has internal memory. Processors operate on numbers and symbols represented in the binary numeral system.

[0077] In one embodiment, the main processor 1006 may be any single-core or multi-core processor, such as those known under the tradename ARM Cortex by Texas Instruments. In one embodiment, the security processor 1004 may be a security microcontroller platform comprising two microcontroller-based families, such as TMS570 and RM4x known under the tradename Hercules ARM Cortex R4, also by Texas Instruments. However, other suitable substitutes for microcontrollers and security processors can be employed, without limitation. In one embodiment, the 1004 security processor can be configured specifically for security critical IEC 61508 and ISO 26262 applications, among others, to provide advanced built-in security features while providing scalable performance, connectivity, and memory options.

[0078] In certain cases, the main processor 1006 may be an LM 4F230H5QR, available from Texas Instruments, for example. In at least one example, the Texas Instruments LM4F230H5QR is an ARM Cortex-M4F processor core comprising an integrated 256 KB single-cycle flash memory, or other non-volatile memory, up to 40 MHz, a transfer buffer for optimize performance above 40 MHz, a 32 KB single-cycle serial random access memory (SRAM), internal read-only memory (ROM) loaded with the StellarisWare® program, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) of 2 KB, one or more pulse width modulation (PWM) modules, one or more analog quadrature encoder (QEI) input, one or more 12-bit analog-to-digital (ADC) converters with 12 input channels analogue devices, among other features that are readily available for the product data sheet. Other processors can easily be replaced and, accordingly, the present disclosure should not be limited in this context.

[0079] In one embodiment, the segmented circuit 1000 comprises an acceleration segment 1002c (segment 3). Acceleration segment 1002c comprises an acceleration sensor 1022. Acceleration sensor 1022 may comprise, for example, an accelerometer. Acceleration sensor 1022 is configured to detect motion or acceleration of energized surgical instrument 2000. In some embodiments, input from acceleration sensor 1022 is used, for example, to transition to and from a sleep mode, identify orientation of the energized surgical instrument, and/or identify when the surgical instrument has been dropped. In some embodiments, acceleration segment 1002c is coupled to security processor 1004 and/or primary processor 1006.

[0080] In one embodiment, the segmented circuit 1000 comprises a display segment 1002d (segment 4). Display segment 1002d comprises a display connector 1024 coupled to primary processor 1006. Display connector 1024 couples primary processor 1006 to a display 1028 via one or more display driver integrated circuits 1026. Display driver integrated circuits 1026 may be integrated with the display 1028 and/or may be located separately from the display 1028. The display 1028 may comprise any suitable display, such as, for example, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a liquid crystal display ( LCD), and/or any other suitable screen. In some embodiments, display segment 1002d is coupled to security processor 1004.

[0081] In some embodiments, the segmented circuit 1000 comprises an axis segment 1002e (segment 5). Axis segment 1002e comprises one or more controls for an axis 2004 coupled to surgical instrument 2000 and/or one or more controls for an end actuator 2006 coupled to axis 2004. Axis segment 1002e comprises an axis connector 1030 configured to coupling the primary processor 1006 to an axis PCBA 1031. The axis PCBA 1031 comprises a first toggle switch 1036, a second toggle switch 1032, and an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) of the axis PCBA 1034. In some embodiments, the EEPROM of the 1034 axis PCBA comprises one or more parameters, routines, and/or programs specific to the 2004 axis and/or the 1031 axis PCBA. The 1031 axis PCBA can be coupled to the 2004 axis and /or integral with surgical instrument 2000. In some embodiments, axis segment 1002e comprises a second axis EEPROM 1038. Second axis EEPROM 1038 comprises a plurality of algorithms, routines, parameters, and/or u other data corresponding to one or more 2004 axes and/or 2006 end actuators that can interface with the 2000 powered surgical instrument.

[0082] In some embodiments, the segmented circuit 1000 comprises a position encoder segment 1002f (segment 6). Position encoder segment 1002f comprises one or more rotary magnetic position encoders 1040a-1040b. The one or more rotary magnetic position encoders 1040a-1040b are configured to identify the rotational position of a motor 1048, a shaft 2004, and/or an end actuator 2006 of the surgical instrument 2000. In some embodiments, the encoders of rotating magnetic positions 1040a-1040b may be coupled to the security processor 1004 and/or the primary processor 1006.

[0083] In some embodiments, the segmented circuit 1000 comprises an engine segment 1002g (segment 7). The motor segment 1002g comprises a motor 1048 configured to control one or more movements of the powered surgical instrument 2000. The motor 1048 is coupled to the primary processor 1006 by an H-bridge driver 1042 and one or more H-bridge field effect transistors. (FETs) 1044. H-bridge FETs 1044 are coupled to the safety processor 1004. A motor current sensor 1046 is coupled in series with the motor 1048 to measure the current draw of the motor 1048. The motor current sensor 1046 is in signal communication with primary processor 1006 and/or security processor 1004. In some embodiments, engine 1048 is coupled to an electromagnetic interference (EMI) filter of engine 1050.

[0084] The segmented circuit 1000 comprises a supply segment 1002h (segment 8). A battery 1008 is coupled to the security processor 1004, the primary processor 1006, and one or more of the additional circuit segments 1002c-1002g. Battery 1008 is coupled to segmented circuit 1000 by a battery connector 1010 and current sensor 1012. Current sensor 1012 is configured to measure the total current draw of segmented circuit 1000. In some embodiments, one or more voltage converters voltage 1014a, 1014b, 1016 are configured to provide predetermined voltage values to one or more circuit segments 1002a-1002g. For example, in some embodiments, segmented circuit 1000 may comprise 3.3V voltage converters 1014a-1014b and/or 5V voltage converters 1016. A voltage boost converter 1018 is configured to provide a voltage boost. up to a predetermined amount, such as up to 13 V. The voltage boost converter 1018 is configured to provide additional voltage and/or current during power-intensive operations and avoid blackout or low power conditions.

[0085] In some embodiments, the security segment 1002a comprises a motor power switch 1020. The motor power switch 1020 is coupled between the power segment 1002h and the motor segment 1002g. Safety segment 1002a is configured to interrupt power to motor segment 1002g when an error or fault condition is detected by safety processor 1004 and/or primary processor 1006, as discussed in more detail in the present invention. While circuit segments 1002a-1002g are illustrated with all components of circuit segments 1002a-1002h located in physical proximity, one skilled in the art will understand that one circuit segment 1002a-1002h may comprise components physically and/or electrically separate from others. components of the same circuit segment 1002a-1002g. In some embodiments, one or more components may be shared between two or more circuit segments 1002a-1002g.

[0086] In some embodiments, a plurality of switches 1056-1070 are coupled to the security processor 1004 and/or the primary processor 1006. The plurality of switches 1056-1070 may be configured to control one or more operations of the surgical instrument 2000, controlling one or more operations of the segmented circuit 1100, and/or indicating a status of the surgical instrument 2000. For example, a bailout gate switch 1056 is configured to indicate the status of the bailout gate. A plurality of toggle keys, such as, for example, a left-hand pivot key 1058a, a left-hand pivot key 1060a, a left-hand pivot key 1062a, a left-hand pivot key 1058b, a right-hand pivot key 1060b, and a right-hand pivot pivot key 1062b are configured to control the pivot of an axle 2004 and/or a end actuator 2006. A left side reverse switch 1064a and a right side reverse switch 1064b are coupled to the primary processor 1006. In some embodiments, the left side switches comprising the left side pivot switch 1058a , the right-hand pivot key for the left side 1060a, the center pivot key for the left side 1062a and the left side reverse key 1064a are coupled to the primary processor 1006 via a left bend connector 1072a. The right-hand keys comprising the right-hand pivot key 1058b, the right-hand pivot key 1060b, the right-hand pivot center key 1062b, and the reverse 1064b are coupled to the primary processor 1006 by a right flex connector 1072b. In some embodiments, a trigger switch 1066, a jaw release switch 1068, and a shaft-engaged switch 1070 are coupled to the primary processor 1006.

[0087] The plurality of switches 1056-1070 may comprise, for example, a plurality of handle controls mounted on a handle of surgical instrument 2000, a plurality of indicator keys, and/or any combination thereof. In various embodiments, the plurality of keys 1056-1070 allow a surgeon to manipulate the surgical instrument, provide feedback to the segmented circuit 1000 regarding the position and/or operation of the surgical instrument, and/or indicate unsafe operation of the surgical instrument 2000. In In some embodiments, additional switches or fewer switches can be coupled to the segmented circuit 1000, one or more of the switches 1056-1070 can be combined into a single switch, and/or expanded to multiple switches. For example, in one embodiment, one or more of the left-hand and/or right-hand toggle switches 1058a-1064b may be combined into a single multiposition switch.

[0088] Figure 5 illustrates a segmented circuit 1100 that comprises an embodiment of a security processor 1104 configured to implement a surveillance function, among other security operations. Security processor 1004 and primary processor 1106 of segmented circuit 1100 are in signal communication. A plurality of circuit segments 1102c-1102h are coupled to primary processor 1106 and are configured to control one or more operations of a surgical instrument, such as, for example, the surgical instrument 2000 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. For example, in As illustrated, the segmented circuit 1100 comprises an acceleration segment 1102c, a display segment 1102d, an axis segment 1102e, an encoder segment 1102f, a motor segment 1102g, and a power segment 1102h. Each of circuit segments 1102c-1102g may be coupled to security processor 1104 and/or primary processor 1106. The primary processor is also coupled to flash memory 1186. A microprocessor run signal is provided at output 1196.

[0089] Acceleration segment 1102c comprises an accelerometer 1122 configured to monitor movement of surgical instrument 2000. In various embodiments, accelerometer 1122 may be a single, dual, or triple axis accelerometer. Accelerometer 1122 can be employed to measure proper acceleration which is not necessarily coordinated acceleration (rate of change of velocity). Instead, the accelerometer sees the acceleration associated with the weight phenomenon experienced by a test mass at rest in the accelerometer reference frame 1122. For example, the accelerometer 1122 at rest on the Earth's surface will measure an acceleration g=9 .8 m/s2 (gravity) straight up due to its weight. Another type of acceleration that the accelerometer 1122 can measure is the G-force acceleration. In various other embodiments, the accelerometer 1122 can comprise a single, dual, or triple axis accelerometer. Additionally, the acceleration segment 1102c may comprise one or more inertia sensors for detecting and measuring acceleration, pitch, impact, vibration, rotation, and multiple degrees-of-freedom (DoF). A suitable inertia sensor may comprise an accelerometer (single, dual or triple axis geometry), a magnetometer for measuring a magnetic field in space such as the Earth's magnetic field, and/or a gyroscope for measuring angular velocity.

[0090] Display segment 1102d comprises a screen embedded in surgical instrument 2000, such as an OLED screen. In certain embodiments, surgical instrument 2000 may comprise an output device which may include one or more devices for providing sensory feedback to a user. Such devices may comprise, for example, visual feedback devices (eg, an LCD screen display, LED indicators), auditory feedback devices (eg, a loudspeaker, a bell) or tactile feedback devices ( e.g. haptic actuators). In some aspects, the output device may comprise a display which may be included in the cable assembly 2002, as illustrated in Figure 1. The shaft assembly controller and/or the power management controller may provide feedback to a user of the surgical instrument 2000 through the output device. An interface can be configured to connect the axis assembly controller and/or power management controller to the output device.

[0091] The shaft segment 1102e comprises an axis circuit board 1131, such as, for example, an axis PCB, configured to control one or more operations of an axis 2004 and/or an end actuator 2006 coupled to the rod 2004 and a 1170 Hall effect switch to indicate shaft engagement. The 1131 axle circuit board also includes a 1190 low-power microprocessor with ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM) technology, a 1192 mechanical toggle switch, a 1194 axle release Hall-effect switch, and a 1134 flash memory. Encoder segment 1102f comprises a plurality of motor encoders 1140a, 1140b configured to provide information about the rotational position of a motor 1048, shaft 2004, and/or end actuator 2006.

[0092] The 1102g motor segment comprises a 1048 motor, such as a brushed DC motor. Engine 1048 is coupled to primary processor 1106 through a plurality of H-bridge drivers 1142 and an engine controller 1143. Engine controller 1143 controls a first engine indicator 1174a and a second engine indicator 1174b to indicate status and the position of motor 1048 to primary processor 1106. Primary processor 1106 provides a high pulse width modulation (PWM) signal 1176a, a low PWM signal 1176b, a direction signal 1178, a sync signal 1180, and a motor reset signal 1182 to motor controller 1143 via buffer 1184. Power segment 1102h is configured to supply a segment voltage to each of circuit segments 1102a-1102g.

[0093] In one embodiment, the security processor 1104 is configured to implement a watchdog function with respect to one or more circuit segments 1102c-1102h, such as, for example, the motor segment 1102g. In this regard, security processor 1104 employs the watchdog function to detect and recover from failures of primary processor 10006. During normal operation, security processor 1104 monitors hardware failures or program errors of primary processor 1104 and initiates corrective action or actions. Corrective actions may include placing the 10006 primary processor in a safe state and restoring normal system operation. In one embodiment, security processor 1104 is coupled to at least one first sensor. The first sensor measures a first property of the surgical instrument 2000. In some embodiments, the security processor 1104 is configured to compare the measured property of the surgical instrument 2000 to a predetermined value. For example, in one embodiment, a motor sensor 1140a is coupled to safety processor 1104. Motor sensor 1140a provides motor speed and position information to safety processor 1104. Safety processor 1104 monitors the motor sensor 1104. motor 1140a and compares the value to a maximum speed and/or position value and prevents operation of motor 1048 above predetermined values. In some embodiments, predetermined values are calculated based on the real-time speed and/or position of motor 1048, calculated from values provided by a second sensor of motor 1140b in communication with primary processor 1106, and/or provided to the security processor 1104 from, for example, a memory module coupled to security processor 1104.

[0094] In some embodiments, a second sensor is coupled to the primary processor 1106. The second sensor is configured to measure the first physical property. Security processor 1104 and primary processor 1106 are configured to provide a signal indicative of the value of the first sensor and the second sensor, respectively. When the security processor 1104 or the primary processor 1106 indicates a value outside an acceptable range, the segmented circuit 1100 prevents the operation of at least one of the circuit segments 1102c-1102h, such as the motor segment 1102g. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, the safety processor 1104 is coupled to a first engine position sensor 1140a and the primary processor 1106 is coupled to a second engine position sensor 1140b. Engine position sensors 1140a, 1140b may comprise any suitable engine position sensor, such as, for example, a magnetic angle rotary input comprising a sine and cosine output. Motor position sensors 1140a, 1140b provide respective signals to the safety processor 1104 and primary processor 1106 indicative of the position of the motor 1048.

[0095] Safety processor 1104 and primary processor 1106 generate an activation signal when the values of the first sensor of motor 1140a and second sensor of motor 1140b are within a predetermined range. When the primary processor 1106 or the security processor 1104 detects a value outside the predetermined range, the enable signal is interrupted and at least one circuit segment 1102c-1102h, such as the motor segment 1102g, operates. is interrupted and/or prevented. For example, in some embodiments, the primary processor enable signal 1106 and the security processor enable signal 1104 are coupled to an AND gate. The AND gate is coupled to a 1120 motor power switch. The AND gate holds the 1120 motor power switch in a closed position or in the position when the activation signal of the safety processor 1104 and primary processor 1106 are high, indicating a value from the motor sensors 1140a, 1140b within the predetermined range. When any of the motor sensors 1140a, 1140b detect a value outside the predetermined range, the activation signal of that motor sensor 1140a, 1140b is low and the AND gate output is low, opening the motor power switch 1120. In In some embodiments, the value of the first sensor 1140a and the second sensor 1140b is compared, for example, by the security processor 1104 and/or the primary processor 1106. When the values of the first sensor and the second sensor are different, the security processor 1104 and/or primary processor 1106 may prevent engine segment 1102g from operating.

[0096] In some embodiments, the security processor 1104 receives a signal indicative of the value of the second sensor 1140b and compares the value of the second sensor to the value of the first sensor. For example, in one embodiment, safety processor 1104 is directly coupled to a first sensor of motor 1140a. A second motor sensor 1140b is coupled to a primary processor 1106, which provides the value of the second motor sensor 1140b to the security processor 1104, and/or directly coupled to the security processor 1104. The security processor 1104 compares the value of the first sensor of engine 1140 to the value of second sensor of engine 1140b. When the safety processor 1104 detects a disparity between the first sensor of the motor 1140a and the second sensor of the motor 1140b, the safety processor 1104 may interrupt the operation of the segment of the motor 1102g, for example, by cutting the power to the segment of the motor. 1102g.

[0097] In some embodiments, the security processor 1104 and/or the primary processor 1106 is coupled to a first sensor 1140a configured to measure a first property of a surgical instrument and a second sensor 1140b configured to measure a second property of the surgical instrument . The first property and the second property comprise a predetermined relationship when the surgical instrument is operating normally. Security processor 1104 monitors the first property and the second property. When a value of the first property and/or the second property that is inconsistent with the predetermined relationship is detected, a failure occurs. When a failure occurs, the safety processor 1104 takes at least one action, such as preventing the operation of at least one of the circuit segments by performing a predetermined operation and/or resetting the primary processor 1106. For example, the The 1104 safety processor can open the 1120 motor power switch to cut power to the 1102g motor circuit segment when a fault is detected.

[0098] Figure 6 illustrates a block diagram of an embodiment of a segmented circuit 1200 that comprises a security processor 1204 configured to monitor and compare a first property and a second property of a surgical instrument, such as, for example, the instrument 2000 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 . The security processor 1204 is coupled to a first sensor 1246 and a second sensor 1266. The first sensor 1246 is configured to monitor a first physical property of the surgical instrument 2000. The second sensor 1266 is configured to monitor a second physical property of the surgical instrument 2000. The first and second properties comprise a predetermined relationship when the surgical instrument 2000 is operating normally. For example, in one embodiment, the first sensor 1246 comprises a motor current sensor configured to monitor a motor's current draw from a power supply. Motor current consumption can be indicative of motor speed. The second sensor comprises a linear Hall sensor configured to monitor the position of a cutting element within an end actuator, for example, an end actuator 2006 coupled to surgical instrument 2000. The position of the cutting member is used to calculate the speed of the cutting element within the end actuator 2006. The speed of the cutting element has a predetermined relationship to the speed of the motor when the surgical instrument 2000 is operating normally.

[0099] Security processor 1204 provides a signal to main processor 1206 indicating that first sensor 1246 and second sensor 1266 are producing values consistent with the predetermined ratio. When the security processor 1204 detects a value from the first sensor 1246 and/or the second sensor 1266 that is inconsistent with the predetermined relationship, the security processor 1206 indicates an unsafe condition to the primary processor 1206. The primary processor 1206 interrupts and/or prevents the operation of at least one circuit segment. In some embodiments, the 1204 security processor is directly coupled to a switch configured to control the operation of one or more circuit segments. For example, with reference to Figure 5, in one embodiment, the safety processor 1104 is directly coupled to a motor power switch 1120. The safety processor 1104 opens the motor power switch 1120 to prevent the motor segment from operating. 1102g engine when a fault is detected.

[00100] Referring again to Figure 5, in one embodiment, the safety processor 1104 is configured to execute an independent control algorithm. In operation, security processor 1104 monitors segmented circuit 1100 and is configured to independently control and/or override signals from other circuit components, such as primary processor 1106. The security processor 1104 may execute a preprogrammed algorithm and/or may be updated or programmed instantly during operation based on one or more actions and/or positions of the surgical instrument 2000. For example, in one embodiment, the security processor safety 1104 is reprogrammed with new parameters and/or safety algorithms each time a new axis and/or end actuator is coupled to the surgical instrument 2000. In some embodiments, one or more safety values stored by the safety processor 1104 are duplicated by the primary processor 1106. Bidirectional error detection is done to ensure that the values and/or parameters stored by any of the processors 1104, 1106 are correct.

[00101] In some embodiments, the security processor 1104 and the primary processor 1106 implement a redundant security check. Security processor 1104 and primary processor 1106 provide periodic signals that indicate normal operation. For example, during operation, security processor 1104 may indicate to primary processor 1106 that security processor 1104 is executing code and operating normally. Primary processor 1106 may similarly indicate to security processor 1104 that primary processor 1106 is executing code and operating normally. In some embodiments, communication between security processor 1104 and primary processor 1106 occurs at a predetermined interval. The predetermined range may be constant or may be variable based on circuit status and/or operation of the surgical instrument 2000.

[00102] Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating a security process 1250 configured to be implemented by a security processor, such as the security process 1104 illustrated in Figure 5. In one embodiment, values corresponding to a plurality of properties of a surgical instrument 2000 are provided to security processor 1104. The plurality of properties are monitored by a plurality of sensors and/or independent systems. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a measured speed of the cutting element 1252, a propositional speed of the motor 1254, and an intended direction of the motor signal 1256 are provided to a security processor 1104. The speed of the cutting element 1252 and the The propositional speed of the 1254 motor can be provided by independent sensors, such as, for example, a linear Hall sensor and a current sensor, respectively. The intended signal direction of motor 1256 may be provided by a primary processor, for example, primary processor 1106 illustrated in Figure 5. Security processor 1104 compares 1258 the plurality of properties and determines when the properties are compatible with a predetermined relationship. . When the plurality of properties comprises values compatible with the predetermined relationship 1260a, no action is taken 1262. When the plurality of properties comprises values incompatible with the predetermined relationship 1260b, the security processor 1104 performs one or more actions, such as, for example, blocking a function, executing a function, and/or resetting a processor. For example, in the process 1250 illustrated in Figure 7, the safety processor 1104 interrupts the operation of one or more circuit segments, as, for example, by interrupting power 1264 to a motor segment.

[00103] Referring again to Figure 5, the segmented circuit 1100 comprises a plurality of switches 1156-1170 configured to control one or more operations of the surgical instrument 2000. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the segmented circuit 1100 comprises a release key jaw 1168, a trigger trigger 1166, and a plurality of switches 1158a-1164b configured to control pivoting of a shaft 2004 and/or end actuator 2006 coupled to surgical instrument 2000. The jaw release switch 1168, the trigger trigger 1166, and the plurality of toggle switches 1158a-1164b may comprise analog and/or digital switches. In particular, key 1156 indicates the lift down position of the mechanical switch, keys 1158a, 1158b indicate left-hinged (1) and (2), keys 1160a, 1160b indicate right-hinged (1) and (2) , keys 1162a, 1162b indicate pivot center (1) and (2), and keys 1164a, 1164b indicate reverse/left and reverse/right.

[00104] For example, Figure 8 illustrates an embodiment of a multiple switch 1300 comprising a plurality of switches SW1-SW16 configured to control one or more operations of a surgical instrument. Multiple switch 1300 may be coupled to a primary processor, such as primary processor 1106. In some embodiments, one or more diodes D1-D8 are coupled to the plurality of switches SW1-SW16. Any suitable mechanical, electromechanical, or solid state switches may be employed to implement the plurality of switches 1156-1170, in any combination. For example, switches 1156-1170 can limit switches operated by the movement of components associated with the 2000 surgical instrument or the presence of an object. These switches can be used to control various functions associated with the 2000 surgical instrument. A limit switch is an electromechanical device consisting of an actuator mechanically linked to a set of contacts. When an object comes into contact with the actuator, the device operates the contacts to make or break an electrical connection. Limit switches are used in a variety of applications and environments because of their robustness, ease of installation, and reliability of operation. They can determine the presence or absence, passage, positioning and end of displacement of an object. In other implementations, the 1156-1170 switches can be solid state switches that work under the influence of a magnetic field such as Hall effect devices, magnetoresistive (MR) devices, giant magnetoresistive (GMR) devices, magnetometers, among others. others. In other implementations, switches 1156-1170 can be solid state switches that operate under the influence of ad light, such as optical sensors, infrared sensors, ultraviolet sensors, among others. In addition, switches 1156-1170 can be solid-state devices such as transistors (eg, FET, junction FET, metal oxide semiconductor FET (MOSFET), bipolar, and the like). Other switches may include wireless switches, ultrasonic switches, accelerometers, inertia sensors, among others.

[00105] Figure 9 illustrates an embodiment of a multi-key 1350 comprising a plurality of keys. In various embodiments, one or more switches are configured to control one or more operations of a surgical instrument, such as, for example, the surgical instrument 2000 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. A plurality of switches SW1-SW16 are configured to control the articulation. of a shaft 2004 and/or end actuator 2006 coupled to the surgical instrument 2000. A firing trigger 1366 is configured to fire the surgical instrument 2000, for example to position a plurality of clips, translate a cutting member within the actuator 2006, and/or provide electrosurgical power to the 2006 end actuator. In some embodiments, the multiswitch 1350 comprises one or more safety switches configured to prevent the operation of the surgical instrument 2000. For example, a bailout switch 1356 is attached to a bailout port and prevents the operation of the Surgical Instrument 2000 when the bailout port is in an open position.

[00106] Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of a segmented circuit 1400 that comprises a toggle switch 1450 coupled to the primary processor 1406. The multikey 1450 is similar to the multikey 1350 illustrated in Figure 9. The multikey 1450 comprises a plurality of keys. SW1-SW16 configured to control one or more operations of a surgical instrument, such as the surgical instrument 2000 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. The multi-switch 1450 is coupled to an analog input of the primary processor 1406. Each of the switches within the toggle switch 1450 is further coupled to an input/output expander 1463 coupled to a digital input of the primary processor 1406. The primary processor 1406 receives input from the toggle switch 1450 and controls one or more additional segments of the segmented circuit 1400, such as, for example, a 1402g engine segment in response to manipulation of one or more keys of the 1450 multi-key.

[00107] In some embodiments, a potentiometer 1469 is coupled to the primary processor 1406 to provide a signal indicative of a grip position of an end actuator 2006 coupled to the surgical instrument 2000. The potentiometer 1469 may replace and/or supplement a power processor. security (not shown) by providing a signal indicative of an open/closed position of the jaw used by the primary processor 1106 to control the operation of one or more circuit segments, such as the motor segment 1102g. For example, when the potentiometer 1469 indicates that the end actuator is in a fully closed position and/or a fully open position, the primary processor 1406 can open the 1420 motor power switch and prevent further operation of the 1402g motor segment in a specific direction. In some embodiments, primary processor 1406 controls the current delivered to motor segment 1402g in response to a signal received from potentiometer 1469. For example, primary processor 1406 may limit the power that can be delivered to motor segment 1402g when the potentiometer 1469 indicates that the end actuator is closed beyond a predetermined position.

[00108] Referring again to Figure 5, the segmented circuit 1100 comprises an acceleration segment 1102c. The acceleration segment comprises an accelerometer 1122. Accelerometer 1122 may be coupled to security processor 1104 and/or primary processor 1106. Accelerometer 1122 is configured to monitor the movement of surgical instrument 2000. Accelerometer 1122 is configured to generate a or more signals indicating movement in one or more directions. For example, in some embodiments, the accelerometer 1122 is configured to monitor the movement of the surgical instrument 2000 in three directions. In other embodiments, the acceleration segment 1102c comprises a plurality of accelerometers 1122, each configured to monitor movement in one direction of the signal.

[00109] In some embodiments, the accelerometer 1122 is configured to initiate a transition to and/or from a sleep mode, for example, between sleep mode and wake mode and vice versa. Suspend mode may comprise a low power mode in which one or more of the circuit segments 1102a-1102g are turned off or placed in a low power state. For example, in one embodiment, the accelerometer 1122 remains active in sleep mode and the safety processor 1104 is placed in a low power mode in which the safety processor 1104 monitors the accelerometer 1122 but otherwise performs no function. The remaining circuit segments 1102b-1102g are disconnected from power. In various embodiments, primary processor 1104 and/or security processor 1106 are configured to monitor accelerometer 1122 and transition segmented circuit 1100 into sleep mode, for example, when no motion is detected within a predetermined period of time. . While described in connection with safety processor 1104 monitoring of accelerometer 1122, sleep mode / wake mode may be implemented by safety processor 1104 monitoring any of the sensors, switches, or other indicators associated with the surgical instrument 2000, as described here . For example, the 1104 security processor may monitor an inertia sensor, or one or more switches.

[00110] In some embodiments, the segmented circuit 1100 transitions to sleep mode after a predetermined period of inactivity. A timer is in signal communication with security processor 1104 and/or primary processor 1106. The timer may be integral with security processor 1104, primary processor 1106, and/or may be a separate circuit component . The timer is configured to monitor a period of time since a last movement of surgical instrument 2000 was detected by accelerometer 1122. When the counter exceeds a predetermined threshold, safety processor 1104 and/or primary processor 1106 transitions the circuit segmented 1100 to suspend mode. In some embodiments, the timer is reset each time the accelerometer 1122 detects motion.

[00111] In some embodiments, all circuit segments except the 1122 accelerometer or other designated sensors and/or switches and the 1104 safety processor are disabled when in suspend mode. Security processor 1104 monitors accelerometer 1122, or other designated sensors and/or switches. When the accelerometer 1122 indicates movement of the surgical instrument 2000, the security processor 1104 initiates a transition from suspend mode to operational mode. In operational mode, all circuit segments 1102a-1102h are fully energized and the surgical instrument 2000 is ready for use. In some embodiments, security processor 1104 transitions segmented circuit 1100 into operational mode by providing a signal to primary processor 1106 to transition primary processor 1106 from sleep mode to a fully powered mode. Primary processor 1106 then transitions each of the remaining circuit segments 1102d-1102h into operational mode.

[00112] The transition to and/or from suspend mode may comprise a plurality of stages. For example, in one embodiment, the segmented circuit 1100 transitions from operating mode to suspend mode in four stages. The first stage is initiated after the accelerometer 1122 has not detected movement of the surgical instrument for a first predetermined period of time. After the first predetermined period of time, segmented circuit 1100 turns on a backlight of display segment 1102d. When no motion is detected within a second predetermined period, security processor 1104 transitions to a second stage, in which the backlight of display segment 1102d is turned off. When no motion is detected within a third predetermined period of time, security processor 1104 transitions to a third stage, in which the polling rate of accelerometer 1122 is reduced. When no motion is detected within a fourth predetermined period of time, display segment 1102d is deactivated and segmented circuit 1100 enters suspend mode. In suspend mode, all circuit segments except accelerometer 1122 and safety processor 1104 are disabled. The 1104 security processor enters a low power mode in which the 1104 security processor only probes the 1122 accelerometer. The 1104 security processor monitors the 1122 accelerometer until the 1122 accelerometer detects motion, at which point the 1104 security processor does transition of segmented circuit 1100 from suspend mode to operational mode.

[00113] In some embodiments, safety processor 1104 transitions segmented circuit 1100 into operational mode only when accelerometer 1122 detects movement of surgical instrument 2000 above a predetermined threshold. Responding only to movement above a predetermined threshold, safety processor 1104 prevents inadvertent transition of segmented circuit 1100 into operational mode when surgical instrument 2000 is bumped or moved while stored. In some embodiments, the accelerometer 1122 is configured to monitor movement in a plurality of directions. For example, the 1122 accelerometer can be configured to detect motion in a first direction and a second direction. Security processor 1104 monitors accelerometer 1122 and transitions segmented circuit 1100 from suspend mode to operational mode when motion above a predetermined threshold is detected in the first and second directions. By requiring movement above a predetermined threshold in at least two directions, security processor 1104 is configured to prevent inadvertent transition of segmented circuit 1100 from suspend mode due to accidental movement during storage.

[00114] In some embodiments, the accelerometer 1122 is configured to detect motion in a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction. Security processor 1104 monitors accelerometer 1122 and is configured to transition segmented circuit 1100 from suspend mode only when accelerometer 1122 detects oscillating motion in each of the first direction, second direction, and third direction. In some embodiments, oscillating motion in each of a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction corresponds to movement of the surgical instrument 2000 by an operator, and therefore, transition to operational mode is desirable when the accelerometer 1122 detects motion. swinging in three directions.

[00115] In some embodiments, as the time since the last detected motion increases, the predetermined motion threshold required for segmented circuit 1100 to exit suspend mode also increases. For example, in some modes, the timer continues to run during sleep mode. As the count of the timer increases, the security processor 1104 increases the predetermined limit of motion required for the segmented circuit 1100 to enter operational mode. The security processor 1104 may raise the predetermined limit to an upper limit. For example, in some embodiments, security processor 1104 transitions segmented circuit 1100 to suspend mode and resets the timer. The predetermined movement threshold is initially set to a low value, requiring only a small movement of surgical instrument 2000 to bring segmented circuit 1100 out of suspend mode. As the time since transition to suspend mode, as measured by the timer, increases, the security processor 1104 increases the predetermined motion limit. At time T, the security processor 1104 has raised the predetermined limit to an upper limit. For all T+ times, the predetermined limit maintains a constant value of the upper limit.

[00116] In some embodiments, one or more additional and/or alternate sensors are used to transition the segmented circuit 1100 between suspend mode and operational mode. For example, in one embodiment, a touch sensor is located on the surgical instrument 2000. The touch sensor is coupled to the security processor 1104 and/or the primary processor 1106. The touch sensor is configured to detect user contact with the surgical instrument 2000. For example, the touch sensor may be located on the handle of the surgical instrument 2000 to detect when an operator picks up the surgical instrument 2000. The security processor 1104 transitions the segmented circuit 1100 to suspend mode after a predetermined period has passed without the accelerometer 1122 detecting motion. The security processor 1104 monitors the touch sensor and switches the segmented circuit 1100 into operational mode when the touch sensor detects user contact with the surgical instrument 2000. The touch sensor may comprise, for example, a capacitive touch sensor , a temperature sensor, and/or any other suitable touch sensor. In some embodiments, the touch sensor and accelerometer 1122 may be used to transition the device between suspend mode and run mode. For example, the security processor 1104 can only transition the device to suspend mode when the accelerometer 1122 has not detected movement within a predetermined period and the touch sensor does not indicate that a user is in contact with the surgical instrument 2000. Those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more additional sensors may be used to transition the segmented circuit 1100 between suspend mode and operational mode. In some embodiments, the touch sensor is only monitored by the security processor 1104 when the segmented circuit 1100 is in suspend mode.

[00117] In some embodiments, the safety processor 1104 is configured to switch the segmented circuit 1100 from suspend mode to operational mode when one or more wire controls are actuated. After going into suspend mode, such as after accelerometer 1122 has not detected motion for a predetermined period, security processor 1104 monitors one or more cable controls, such as the plurality of toggle switches 1158a -1164b. In other embodiments, the one or more cable controls comprise, for example, a gripper control 1166, a release button 1168, and/or any other suitable cable control. An operator of the surgical instrument 2000 can activate one or more of the cable controls to transition the segmented circuit 1100 into operational mode. When the safety processor 1104 detects the actuation of a cable control, the safety processor 1104 initiates the transition of the segmented circuit 1100 to operational mode. Because the primary processor 1106 is not active when the handle control is actuated, the operator can actuate the handle control without causing a corresponding action of the surgical instrument 2000.

[00118] Figure 16 illustrates an embodiment of a segmented circuit 1900 comprising an accelerometer 1922 configured to monitor the movement of a surgical instrument, such as, for example, the surgical instrument 2000 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. A power segment 1902 supplies power from a battery 1908 to one or more circuit segments, such as the accelerometer 1922. The accelerometer 1922 is coupled to a processor 1906. The accelerometer 1922 is configured to monitor the movement of the surgical instrument 2000. The accelerometer 1922 is configured to generate one or more signals indicating movement in one or more directions. For example, in some embodiments, the accelerometer 1922 is configured to monitor the movement of the surgical instrument 2000 in three directions.

[00119] In certain cases, the 1906 processor may be an LM 4F230H5QR, available from Texas Instruments, for example. Processor 1906 is configured to monitor accelerometer 1922 and transition segmented circuit 1900 into sleep mode, for example, when no motion is detected for a predetermined period of time. In some embodiments, segmented circuit 1900 transitions to sleep mode after a predetermined period of inactivity. For example, a security processor 1904 may transition segmented circuit 1900 into sleep mode after a predetermined period has passed without accelerometer 1922 detecting motion. In certain cases, the 1922 accelerometer may be a LIS331DLM, available from STMicroelectronics, for example. A timer is in signal communication with processor 1906. The timer may be integral with processor 1906 and/or may be a separate circuit component. The timer is configured to contain the time since a last movement of surgical instrument 2000 was detected by accelerometer 1922. When the counter exceeds a predetermined threshold, processor 1906 transitions segmented circuit 1900 into suspend mode. In some embodiments, the timer is reset each time the 1922 accelerometer detects motion.

[00120] In some embodiments, the 1922 accelerometer is configured to detect an impact event. For example, when a surgical instrument 2000 is dropped, the accelerometer 1922 will detect acceleration caused by gravity in a first direction and then a change in acceleration in a second direction (caused by impact with the floor and/or other surface). ). As another example, when the surgical instrument 2000 collides with a wall, the accelerometer 1922 will detect a sudden increase in acceleration in one or more directions. When the 1922 accelerometer detects an impact event, the 1906 processor can prevent the surgical instrument 2000 from operating, as impact events can loosen mechanical and/or electrical components. In some embodiments, only impacts above a predetermined threshold prevent functioning. In other embodiments, all impacts are monitored and cumulative impacts above a predetermined threshold may prevent the 2000 surgical instrument from functioning.

[00121] Referring again to Figure 5, in one embodiment, the segmented circuit 1100 comprises a power segment 1102h. Power segment 1102h is configured to supply a segment voltage to each of circuit segments 1102a-1102g. Power segment 1102h comprises a battery 1108. Battery 1108 is configured to supply a predetermined voltage, such as 12 volts, through battery connector 1110. One or more power converters 1114a, 1114b, 1116 are coupled to the 1108 battery to supply a specific voltage. For example, in the illustrated embodiments, the power segment 1102h comprises an axillary switching converter 1114a, a switching converter 1114b, and a low voltage drop (LDO) converter 1116. Switching converters 1114a, 1114b are configured to provide 3 .3 volts to one or more circuit components. The LDO 1116 converter is configured to supply 5.0 volts to one or more circuit components. In some embodiments, the power segment 1102h comprises a boost converter 1118. A transistor switch (e.g., N-channel MOSFET) 1115 is coupled to power converters 1114b, 1116. The boost converter 1118 is configured to provide a high voltage greater than the voltage supplied by the 1108 battery, such as 13 volts. Amplifier converter 1118 may comprise, for example, a capacitor, an inductor, a battery, a rechargeable battery, and/or any other amplifier converter suitable for providing a high voltage. Amplifier converter 1118 supplies a voltage to prevent blackout and/or low power conditions of one or more circuit segments 1102a-1102g during power-intensive operations of the surgical instrument 2000. The modalities, however, are not limited to (s) voltage range(s) described in the context of this specification.

[00122] In some embodiments, the segmented circuit 1100 is configured for sequential initialization. An error check is performed for each circuit segment 1102a-1102g before powering up the next sequential circuit segment 1102a-1102g. Figure 11 illustrates one embodiment of a process for sequentially energizing a segmented circuit 1270, such as segmented circuit 1100. When a battery 1108 is coupled to segmented circuit 1100, security processor 1104 is energized 1272. safety 1104 performs an error self-check 1274. When an error is detected 1276a, the safety processor stops powering the segmented circuit 1100 and generates an error code 1278a. When no errors are detected 1276b, safety processor 1104 initiates 1278b power-up of primary processor 1106. Primary processor 1106 performs error self-checking. When no errors are detected, the primary processor 1106 begins sequential power-up of each of the remaining circuit segments 1278b. Each circuit segment is energized and checked for errors by the primary processor 1106. When no errors are detected, the next circuit segment is energized 1278b. When an error is detected, the safety processor 1104 and/or the primary processor stops powering the current segment and generates an error 1278a. Sequential initialization continues until all circuit segments 1102a-1102g have been energized. In some embodiments, segmented circuit 1100 transitions from sleep mode after a similar sequential power-up process 1250.

[00123] Figure 12 illustrates one embodiment of a power segment 1502 comprising a plurality of serially connected power converters 1514, 1516, 1518. Power segment 1502 comprises a battery 1508. Battery 1508 is configured to provide a source voltage, such as 12 V. A current sensor 1512 is coupled to battery 1508 to monitor current consumption of a segmented circuit and/or of one or more circuit segments. Current sensor 1512 is coupled to a FET switch 1513. Battery 1508 is coupled to one or more voltage converters 1509, 1514, 1516. An always-on converter 1509 supplies a constant voltage to one or more circuit components, such as, for example, a motion sensor 1522. Always-on converter 1509 comprises, for example, a 3.3V converter. Always-on converter 1509 can provide constant voltage to additional circuit components, such as a processor security (not shown). Battery 1508 is coupled to a boost converter 1518. Boost converter 1518 is configured to provide a boost voltage above the voltage supplied by battery 1508. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, battery 1508 supplies a voltage of 12 V. Amplifier Converter 1518 is configured to raise the voltage to 13 V. Amplifier Converter 1518 is configured to maintain a minimum voltage during operation of a surgical instrument, for example, the Surgical Instrument 2000 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. Operation of a motor can result in the power supplied to the 1506 primary processor falling below a minimum threshold and creating a blackout or reset condition in the 1506 primary processor. The 1518 amplifier converter ensures that sufficient power is available to the 1506 primary processor and /or to other circuit components, such as the 1543 motor controller, during operation of the surgical instrument co 2000. In some embodiments, the amplifier converter 1518 is directly coupled to one or more circuit components, such as an OLED display 1588.

[00124] Amplifier converter 1518 is coupled to one or more step-down converters to provide voltages below the amplified voltage level. A first voltage converter 1516 is coupled to the boost converter 1518 and supplies a first reduced voltage to one or more circuit components. In the illustrated embodiment, the first voltage converter 1516 supplies a voltage of 5 V. The first voltage converter 1516 is coupled to a rotary position encoder 1540. A FET switch 1517 is coupled between the first voltage converter 1516 and the rotary position 1540. FET switch 1517 is controlled by processor 1506. Processor 1506 opens FET switch 1517 to disable position encoder 1540, for example, during power-intensive operations. The first voltage converter 1516 is coupled to a second voltage converter 1514 configured to provide a second reduced voltage. The second reduced voltage comprises, for example, 3.3 V. The second voltage converter 1514 is coupled to a processor 1506. In some embodiments, the boost converter 1518, the first voltage converter 1516, and the second voltage converter 1514 are coupled in a series configuration. The series configuration allows the use of smaller, more efficient converters to generate voltage levels below the amplified voltage level. The modalities, however, are not limited to the particular voltage range(s) described in the context of this specification.

[00125] Figure 13 illustrates one embodiment of a 1600 segmented circuit configured to maximize available power for critical and/or power intensive functions. Segmented circuit 1600 comprises a battery 1608. Battery 1608 is configured to supply a source voltage, such as 12 V. The source voltage is supplied to a plurality of voltage converters 1609, 1618. A voltage converter always-on 1609 supplies a constant voltage to one or more circuit components, for example, a motion sensor 1622 and a safety processor 1604. The always-on voltage converter 1609 is coupled directly to battery 1608. The always-on converter 1609 provides a voltage, for example, 3.3 V. The modalities, however, are not limited to the particular voltage range(s) described in the context of this specification.

[00126] The segmented circuit 1600 comprises a boost converter 1618. The boost converter 1618 supplies an amplified voltage greater than the source voltage supplied by the battery 1608, such as 13 V. A boost converter 1618 supplies a voltage amplified directly to one or more circuit components, for example an OLED display 1688 and a motor controller 1643. By coupling the OLED display 1688 directly to the amplifier converter 1618, the segmented circuit 1600 eliminates the need for a dedicated power to the 1688 OLED display. The 1618 boost converter supplies an amplified voltage to the 1643 motor controller and the 1648 motor during one or more power-intensive operations from the 1648 motor, such as a cutting operation. The boost converter 1618 is coupled to a step down converter 1616. The step down converter 1616 is configured to supply a voltage below the amplified voltage to one or more circuit components, such as 5 V. The step down converter 1616 is coupled, for example, to a FET switch 1651 and a position encoder 1640. The FET switch 1651 is coupled to the primary processor 1606. The primary processor 1606 opens the FET switch 1651 when it transitions from segmented circuit 1600 to suspended and/or during power-intensive functions that require additional voltage released to the 1648 motor. Opening the 1651 FET switch disables the 1640 position encoder and eliminates the 1640 position encoder power consumption. are limited to the particular voltage range(s) described in the context of this specification.

[00127] The step-down converter 1616 is coupled to a linear converter 1614. The linear converter 1614 is configured to supply a voltage, for example, 3.3 V. The linear converter 1614 is coupled to the primary processor 1606. The linear converter 1614 provides an operating voltage to primary processor 1606. Linear converter 1614 may be coupled to one or more additional circuit components. The modalities, however, are not limited to the particular voltage range(s) described in the context of this specification.

[00128] The segmented circuit 1600 comprises a bailout switch 1656. The bailout switch 1656 is coupled to a bailout port on the surgical instrument 2000. The bailout switch 1656 and the security processor 1604 are coupled to an AND gate 1619. The AND gate 1619 provides an input to a FET switch 1613. When the bailout switch 1656 detects a bailout condition, the bailout switch 1656 provides a bailout shutdown signal to the AND gate 1619. When the safety processor 1604 detects an unsafe condition, such as , caused by a sensor mispair, the safety processor 1604 provides a shutdown signal to AND gate 1619. In some embodiments, both the bailout shutdown signal and the shutdown signal are high during normal operation and are low when a condition occurs. bailout or an unsafe condition is detected. When the output of AND gate 1619 is low, FET switch 1613 is opened and mechanism 1648 is prevented from functioning. In some embodiments, safety processor 1604 uses the shutdown signal to transition motor 1648 to a suspended state off state. A third input to FET switch 1613 is provided by current sensor 1612 coupled to battery 1608. Current sensor 1612 monitors the current drawn by circuit 1600 and opens FET switch 1613 to shut off power to motor 1648 when an electrical current above of a predetermined threshold is detected. The 1613 FET switch and 1643 motor controller are coupled to a 1645 FET switch bank configured to control the operation of the 1648 motor.

[00129] A motor current sensor 1646 is coupled in series with the motor 1648 to provide a reading from the motor current sensor to a current monitor 1647. The current monitor 1647 is coupled to the primary processor 1606. current 1647 provides a signal indicative of the current draw of the motor 1648. The primary processor 1606 may use the current signal of the motor 1647 to control the operation of the motor, for example, to ensure that the current draw of the motor 1648 is within an acceptable range, to compare the current draw of motor 1648 to one or more other parameters of circuit 1600, such as position encoder 1640, and/or to determine one or more parameters of a treatment site. In some embodiments, current monitor 1647 may be coupled to security processor 1604.

[00130] In some embodiments, actuation of one or more cable controls, such as a trigger trigger, causes the 1606 primary processor to decrease power to one or more components while the cable control is actuated. For example, in one embodiment, a firing trigger controls a firing stroke of a cutting element. The cutting element is driven by the 1648 motor. Actuation of the trigger trigger results in forward operation of the 1648 motor and advancement of the cutting element. During the trigger, the primary processor 1606 closes the FET switch 1651 to remove power from the position encoder 1640. Deactivating one or more circuit components allows more power to be released to the 1648 motor. When the trigger trigger is released, full power is restored to deactivated components, for example by closing FET switch 1651 and reactivating position encoder 1640.

[00131] In some embodiments, safety processor 1604 controls the operation of segmented circuit 1600. For example, safety processor 1604 may initiate a sequential power-up of segmented circuit 1600, transition of segmented circuit 1600 to suspend mode, and from suspended, and/or may override one or more control signals from primary processor 1606. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, safety processor 1604 is coupled to downshift 1616. Safety processor 1604 controls the operation of segmented circuit 1600 by activating or deactivating the step-down converter 1616 to supply power to the remainder of the segmented circuit 1600.

[00132] Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment of a power system 1700 comprising a plurality of serially connected power converters 1714, 1716, 1718 configured to be energized sequentially; The plurality of series-connected power converters 1714, 1716, 1718 may be activated sequentially, for example, by a safety processor during initial power-up and/or suspend mode transition. The safety processor can be powered by an independent power converter (not shown). For example, in one embodiment, when a battery voltage VBATT is coupled to the 1700 power system and/or when an accelerometer detects motion in suspend mode, the safety processor initiates a sequential initialization of the 1714, 1716 series-connected power converters. , 1718. The safety processor activates the lift section for 13V 1718. The lift section 1718 is energized and performs a self-check. In some embodiments, the riser section 1718 comprises an integrated circuit 1720 configured to raise the source voltage and perform a self-check. A diode D prevents energizing a 5V supply section 1716 until the riser section 1718 has completed a self-check and provided a signal to the diode D indicating that the riser section 1718 has not detected errors. In some embodiments, this signal is provided by the security processor. The modalities, however, are not limited to the particular voltage range(s) described in the context of this specification.

[00133] The 5V supply section 1716 is energized sequentially after the lift section 1718. The 5V supply section 1716 performs a self-check during power-up to identify any errors in the 5V supply section 1716. 5V supply voltage 1716 comprises an integrated circuit 1715 configured to provide a reduced voltage relative to the amplified voltage and to perform error checking. When no errors are detected, the 1716 5V supply section completes sequential power-up and provides an enable signal to the 1714 3.3V supply section. In some embodiments, the safety processor provides an enable signal to the 1714 section. 3.3V supply section 1714. The 3.3V supply section comprises an integrated circuit 1713 configured to provide a reduced voltage relative to the 5V supply section 1716 and self-check for error during power-up. When no errors are detected during the self-check, the 3.3V supply section 1714 supplies power to the primary processor. The primary processor is configured to sequentially power up each of the remaining circuit segments. By sequentially energizing the 1700 power system and/or the remainder of a segmented circuit, the 1700 power system reduces the risk of error, allows voltage levels to stabilize before loads are applied, and prevents large current draws from the entire hardware that is turned on simultaneously in an uncontrolled way. The modalities, however, are not limited to the particular voltage range(s) described in the context of this specification.

[00134] In one embodiment, the power system 1700 comprises an overvoltage identification and mitigation circuit. The overvoltage identification and mitigation circuit is configured to detect a monopolar return current in the surgical instrument and interrupt the supply to the supply segment when the monopolar return current is detected. The overvoltage identification and mitigation circuit is configured to identify ground float of the power system. The overvoltage identification and mitigation circuit comprises a metal oxide varistor. The overvoltage identification and mitigation circuit comprises at least one temporary voltage suppression diode.

[00135] Figure 15 illustrates one embodiment of a segmented circuit 1800 comprising an isolated control section 1802. The isolated control section 1802 isolates control hardware of the segmented circuit 1800 from a power section (not shown) of the circuit. 1800. Control section 1802 comprises, for example, a primary processor 1806, a security processor (not shown), and/or additional control hardware, for example, a FET switch 1817. The power section comprises, for example, for example, a motor, a motor driver and/or a plurality of motor MOSFETS. Isolated control section 1802 comprises a charging circuit 1803 and a rechargeable battery 1808 coupled to a 5V power converter 1816. Charging circuit 1803 and rechargeable battery 1808 isolate the primary processor 1806 from the power section. In some embodiments, the 1808 rechargeable battery pack is coupled with a security processor and any additional supporting hardware. Isolation of the 1802 control section from the power section allows the 1802 control section, e.g. the 1806 primary processor, to remain active even when the main power is removed, provides a filter, via the 1808 rechargeable battery, to maintain the noise outside the 1802 control section, isolates the 1802 control section from large swings in battery voltage to ensure proper operation even during heavy engine loads, and/or allows the real-time operating system (RTOS) to be used by the segmented circuit 1800. In some embodiments, the rechargeable battery 1808 supplies a reduced voltage to the primary processor, such as 3.3 V. The embodiments, however, are not limited to the particular voltage range(s)( es) described in the context of this descriptive report.

[00136] Figure 17 illustrates one embodiment of a process for sequential initialization of a segmented circuit, such as, for example, segmented circuit 1100 illustrated in Figure 5. The sequential initialization process 1820 begins when one or more sensors initiate the transition from suspend mode to operational mode. When the one or more sensors stop detecting state changes 1822, a timer is started 1824. The timer counts the time since the last movement/interaction with the surgical instrument 2000 was detected by the one or more sensors. The timer count is compared 1826 to a table of suspend-mode stages, for example, by the safety processor 1104. When the timer count exceeds one or more counts for transitioning to a suspend-mode stage 1828a, the safety processor 1104 stops energizing 1830 the segmented circuit 1100 and transitions the segmented circuit 1100 to the corresponding suspend mode stage. When the timer count is below the threshold for any of the suspend mode stages 1828b, segmented circuit 1100 continues to sequentially energize the next segment of circuit 1832.

[00137] Referring again to Figure 5, in some embodiments, the segmented circuit 1100 comprises one or more environmental sensors for detecting improper storage and/or handling of a surgical instrument. For example, in one embodiment, the segmented circuit 1100 comprises a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor is configured to detect the maximum and/or minimum temperature to which the 1100 segmented circuit is exposed. The surgical instrument 2000 and the segmented circuit 1100 comprise a design limit exposure for maximum and/or minimum temperatures. When the Surgical Instrument 2000 is exposed to temperatures above the limits, for example, a temperature greater than the maximum limit during a sterilization technique, the temperature sensor detects the overexposure and prevents the device from functioning. The temperature sensor may comprise, for example, a bimetallic strip configured to trip the surgical instrument 2000 when exposed to a temperature above a predetermined threshold, a solid state temperature sensor configured to store temperature data and provide the temperature data to the 1104 safety processor, and/or any other suitable temperature sensor.

[00138] In some embodiments, the accelerometer 1122 is configured as an environmental safety sensor. The accelerometer 1122 records the acceleration experienced by the surgical instrument 2000. An acceleration above a predetermined threshold may indicate, for example, that the surgical instrument has dropped. The surgical instrument comprises a maximum acceleration tolerance. When the accelerometer 1122 detects an acceleration above the maximum acceleration tolerance, the security processor 1104 prevents the operation of the surgical instrument 2000.

[00139] In some embodiments, the segmented circuit 1100 comprises a humidity sensor. The humidity sensor is configured to indicate when the 1100 segmented circuit has been exposed to moisture. The humidity sensor may comprise, for example, an immersion sensor configured to indicate when the surgical instrument 2000 has been completely immersed in a cleaning fluid, a humidity sensor configured to indicate when moisture is in contact with the segmented circuit 1100 when the 1100 segmented circuit is energized, and/or any other suitable humidity sensor.

[00140] In some embodiments, the segmented circuit 1100 comprises a chemical exposure sensor. The chemical exposure sensor is configured to indicate when the 2000 Surgical Instrument has come into contact with harmful and/or hazardous chemicals. For example, during a sterilization procedure, an inappropriate chemical may be used, leading to degradation of the 2000 surgical instrument. The chemical exposure sensor may indicate inappropriate chemical exposure to the 1104 safety processor, which may prevent operation of the surgical instrument 2000.

[00141] Segmented circuit 1100 is configured to monitor multiple usage cycles. For example, in one embodiment, battery 1108 comprises circuit configured to monitor a usage cycle count. In some embodiments, the safety processor 1104 is configured to monitor the usage cycle count. Usage cycles may comprise surgical events initiated by a surgical instrument, such as the number of axes 2004 used with the surgical instrument 2000, the number of cartridges inserted and/or dispensed by the surgical instrument 2000, and/or the number 2000 surgical instrument triggering. In some embodiments, a cycle of use may comprise an environmental event, such as, for example, an impact event, exposure to inappropriate storage conditions and/or inappropriate chemicals, a sterilization process, a cleaning process, and/or a reconditioning process. In some embodiments, a usage cycle may comprise a power pack (e.g., battery) exchange and/or a charge cycle.

[00142] Segmented circuit 1100 may maintain a total wear cycle count for all defined wear cycles and/or may maintain individual wear cycle counts for one or more defined wear cycles. For example, in one embodiment, the segmented circuit 1100 may maintain a single wear cycle count for all surgical events initiated by the surgical instrument 2000 and individual wear cycle counts for each environmental event experienced by the surgical instrument 2000. cycles of use is used to motivate one or more behaviors of the segmented circuit 1100. For example, count of cycles of use can be used to disable a segmented circuit 1100, for example, disabling a battery 1108, when the number of cycles of use exceeds a predetermined threshold or when exposure to an inappropriate environmental event is detected. In some embodiments, the wear cycle count is used to indicate when suggested and/or mandatory maintenance of the 2000 Surgical Instrument is required.

[00143] Figure 18 illustrates one embodiment of a method 1950 for controlling a surgical instrument comprising a segmented circuit, such as, for example, the segmented control circuit 1602 illustrated in Figure 12. In 1952, a power pack 1608 is coupled to the surgical instrument. Power pack 1608 may comprise any suitable battery, for example, power pack 2006 illustrated in Figures 1 through 3. Power pack 1608 is configured to supply a source voltage to segmented control circuit 1602. The source may comprise any suitable voltage, such as 12V. In 1954, the power pack 1608 powers a voltage boost converter 1618. The voltage boost converter 1618 is configured to supply a set voltage. The set voltage comprises a voltage greater than the source voltage supplied by the power pack 1608. For example, in some embodiments, the set voltage comprises a voltage of 13 V. In a third step 1956, the voltage boost converter 1618 energizes one or more voltage regulators to supply one or more operating voltages to one or more circuit components. Operating voltages comprise a voltage lower than the set voltage provided by the voltage boost converter.

[00144] In some embodiments, the boost converter 1618 is coupled to a first voltage regulator 1616 configured to provide a first operating voltage. The first operating voltage supplied by the first voltage regulator 1616 is less than the set voltage supplied by the voltage boost converter. For example, in some embodiments, the first operating voltage comprises a voltage of 5 V. In some embodiments, the boost converter is coupled to a second voltage regulator 1614. The second voltage regulator 1614 is configured to supply a second voltage. of operation. The second operating voltage comprises a voltage lower than the set voltage and the first operating voltage. For example, in some embodiments, the second operating voltage comprises a voltage of 3.3 V. In some embodiments, the battery 1608, the voltage boost converter 1618, the first voltage regulator 1616, and the second voltage regulator 1614 are configured in series. Battery 1608 supplies the source voltage to the voltage boost converter 1618. The voltage boost converter 1618 amplifies the source voltage to the set voltage. The voltage boost converter 1618 supplies the set voltage to the first voltage regulator 1616. The first voltage regulator 1616 generates a first operating voltage and supplies the first operating voltage to the second voltage regulator 1614. The second voltage regulator 1614 generates the second operating voltage.

[00145] In some embodiments, one or more circuit components are powered directly by the voltage boost converter 1618. For example, in some embodiments, an OLED display 1688 is coupled directly to the voltage boost converter 1618. 1618 voltage amplification supplies the set voltage to the 1688 OLED display, eliminating the need for the OLED to have a power generator built into it. In some embodiments, a processor, such as the safety processor 1604 illustrated in Figure 5, checks the voltage supplied by the voltage boost converter 1618 and/or the one or more voltage regulators 1616, 1614. safety 1604 is configured to check a voltage supplied by each of the voltage boost converter 1618 and voltage regulators 1616, 1614. In some embodiments, safety processor 1604 checks the set voltage. When the set voltage is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, the safety processor 1604 energizes the first voltage regulator 1616. The safety processor 1604 checks the first operating voltage supplied by the first voltage regulator 1616. is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value, the safety processor 1604 energizes the second voltage regulator 1614. The safety processor 1604 then checks the second operational voltage. When the second operating voltage is equal to or greater than a third predetermined value, the security processor 1604 energizes each of the remaining circuit components of the segmented circuit 1600.

[00146] Various aspects of the subject described herein relate to methods for controlling the power management of a surgical instrument through a segmented circuit and variable voltage protection. In one embodiment, a method for controlling power management in a surgical instrument comprising a primary processor, a safety processor, and a segmented circuit comprising a plurality of circuit segments in signal communication with the primary processor, wherein the the plurality of circuit segments comprises a supply segment, the method comprising providing, by the supply segment, variable voltage control of each segment. In one embodiment, the method comprises providing, by the supply segment comprising an amplification converter, supply stabilization for at least one of the segment voltages. The method also comprises providing, by the amplifier converter, power stabilization for the primary processor and for the safety processor. The method also comprises providing, by the amplifier converter, a constant voltage to the primary processor and to the safety processor above a predetermined threshold independent of the power consumption of the plurality of circuit segments. The method also comprises detecting, by an overvoltage identification and mitigation circuit, a monopolar return current in the surgical instrument and interrupting the supply to the supply segment when the monopolar return current is detected. The method also comprises identifying, by the overvoltage identification and mitigation circuit, ground fluctuation of the supply system.

[00147] In another embodiment, the method also comprises energizing, by the supply segment, each of the plurality of circuit segments sequentially and checking errors in each circuit segment before energizing a sequential circuit segment. The method further comprises energizing the safety processor by a power supply coupled to the power segment, performing an error check by the safety processor when the safety processor is energized, and executing and energizing the safety processor, the primary when no errors are detected during error checking. The method further comprises performing an error checking by the primary processor when the primary processor is powered up, and wherein when no error is detected during the error checking, sequentially powering up by the primary processor each of the plurality of circuit segments. The method also comprises error checking by the primary processor on each of the plurality of circuit segments.

[00148] In another embodiment, the method comprises energizing, by the amplification converter, the safety processor when a power supply is connected to the power segment, performing, by the safety processor, an error check, and energizing the processor. primary, by the safety processor, when no errors are detected during error checking. The method further comprises performing an error checking by the primary processor and sequentially powering up, by the primary processor, each of the plurality of circuit segments when no error is detected during the error checking. The method also comprises error checking by the primary processor on each of the plurality of circuit segments.

[00149] In another embodiment, the method also comprises, providing, by a supply segment, a voltage from the segment to the primary processor, providing variable voltage protection of each segment, providing, by an amplification converter, stabilization of the supply to at least one of the segment voltages, an overvoltage identification and a mitigation circuit, energizing, by the supply segment, each of the plurality of circuit segments sequentially, and checking each circuit segment for errors before energizing a circuit segment sequential.

[00150] Various aspects of the subject matter described herein pertain to methods for controlling a control circuit of a surgical instrument that has a safety processor. In one embodiment, a method for controlling a surgical instrument comprising a control circuit comprising a primary processor, a security processor in signal communication with the primary processor, and a segmented circuit comprising a plurality of circuit segments in signal communication with the primary processor, the method comprising monitoring, by the security processor, one or more parameters of the plurality of circuit segments. The method further comprises checking one or more parameters of the plurality of circuit segments by the security processor and checking the one or more parameters independently of one or more control signals generated by the primary processor. The method further comprises checking, by the security processor, the speed of a cutting element. The method further comprises monitoring by a first sensor a first property of the surgical instrument, monitoring by a second sensor a second property of the surgical instrument, the first property and the second property comprising a predetermined relationship, and wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are in signal communication with the safety processor. The method also comprises preventing, by the security processor, from operating at least one of the plurality of circuit segments when the fault is detected, a fault comprising the first property and the second property having values incompatible with the predetermined relationship. The method also comprises monitoring, by a Hall effect sensor, the position of a cutting element and monitoring, by a motor current sensor, a motor current.

[00151] In another embodiment, the method comprises disabling, by the safety processor, at least one of the plurality of circuit segments when a disparity is detected between the verification of one or more parameters and the one or more control signals generated by the primary processor. The method also comprises preventing, by the safety processor, the operation of a motor segment and interrupting the flow of power to the motor segment from the power segment. The method further comprises preventing the safety processor from operating a motor segment forward and when the fault is detected allowing the safety processor to run the motor segment in reverse.

[00152] In another embodiment, the segmented circuit comprises a motor segment and a power segment, the method comprising controlling, by the motor segment, one or more mechanical operations of the surgical instrument and monitoring, by the safety processor , of one or more parameters of the plurality of circuit segments. The method further comprises checking by the safety processor one or more parameters of the plurality of circuit segments and independently checking by the safety processor the one or more parameters independently of one or more control signals generated by the primary processor .

[00153] In another embodiment, the method also comprises independent verification, by the safety processor, of the speed of a cutting element. The method also comprises monitoring, by a first sensor, a first property of the surgical instrument, monitoring, by a second sensor, a second property of the surgical instrument, the first property and the second property comprising a predetermined relationship, and wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are in signal communication with the safety processor, wherein a fault comprises the first property and the second property having values incompatible with the predetermined relationship, and the impediment, by the safety processor, the operation of at least one of the plurality of circuit segments when the failure is detected by the safety processor. The method also comprises monitoring, by a Hall effect sensor, the position of a cutting element and monitoring, by a motor current sensor, a motor current.

[00154] In another embodiment, the method comprises disabling, by the safety processor, at least one of the plurality of circuit segments when a disparity is detected between the verification of one or more parameters and the one or more control signals generated by the primary processor. The method also comprises preventing, by the safety processor, the operation of the motor segment and interrupting the flow of power to the motor segment from the power segment. The method further comprises preventing the safety processor from running the motor segment forward and allowing the safety processor to run the motor segment in reverse when the fault is detected.

[00155] In another embodiment, the method comprises monitoring, by the security processor, one or more parameters of the plurality of circuit segments, verifying, by the security processor, the one or more parameters of the plurality of circuit segments , checking by the safety processor the one or more parameters independently of one or more control signals generated by the primary processor, and disabling, by the safety processor, at least one of the plurality of circuit segments when a disparity is detected between the verification of one or more parameters and the one or more control signals generated by the primary processor. The method also comprises monitoring, by a first sensor, a first property of the surgical instrument, monitoring, by a second sensor, a second property of the surgical instrument, the first property and the second property comprising a predetermined relationship, and wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are in signal communication with the safety processor, wherein a fault comprises the first property and the second property having values incompatible with the predetermined relationship, and wherein the fault is detected, preventing , by the security processor, the operation of at least one of the plurality of circuit segments. The method further comprises preventing, by the safety processor, a motor segment from operating and interrupting the flow of power to the motor segment from the power segment when a fault is detected.

[00156] Various aspects of the subject matter described herein relate to methods for controlling the power management of a surgical instrument through segmented circuit suspend and wake control options, the surgical instrument comprising a control circuit comprising a processor primary, a security processor in signal communication with the primary processor, and a segmented circuit comprising a plurality of circuit segments in signal communication with the primary processor, the plurality of circuit segments comprising a power segment, the method comprising transitioning, by the security processor, the primary processor and at least one of the plurality of circuit segments from an active mode to a suspended mode and from the suspended mode to an active mode. The method also comprises tracking, by a timer, a time since a last user initiated the event and, if the time since the last user initiated the event exceeds a predetermined threshold, making the transition, by the security processor, of the primary processor and at least one of the plurality of circuit segments for suspend mode. The method also comprises detecting, by an acceleration segment comprising an accelerometer, one or more movements of the surgical instrument. The method also comprises tracking, by the timer, a time since the last movement was detected by the acceleration segment. The method also comprises the security processor maintaining the acceleration segment in active mode when the plurality of circuit segments switches to suspend mode.

[00157] In another embodiment, the method further comprises transitioning to suspend mode in a plurality of stages The method further comprises transitioning the segmented circuit to a first stage after a first predetermined period, turning on a backlight of the display segment , transition the segmented circuit to a second stage after a second predetermined period and turn off the backlight, transition the segmented circuit to a third stage after a third predetermined period and reduce an accelerometer polling rate, and transition the circuit to a fourth stage after a predetermined fourth period and turn off the display and transition the surgical instrument to suspend mode.

[00158] Another embodiment comprises detecting, by a touch sensor, the user's contact with a surgical instrument and transitioning, by the security processor, the primary processor and the plurality of circuit segments from a suspended mode to a active when the touch sensor detects a user in contact with the surgical instrument. The method further comprises monitoring, by the security processor, at least one control of the cable and transitioning, by the security processor, the primary processor and the plurality of circuit segments from suspend mode to active mode when the at least a cable control is actuated.

[00159] In another embodiment, the method comprises transitioning, by the safety processor, the surgical device to active mode when the accelerometer detects movement of the surgical instrument above a predetermined threshold. The method further comprises monitoring, by the safety processor, the accelerometer for movement in at least a first and second direction, and transitioning, by the safety processor, the surgical instrument from suspended to operational mode when the above movement of a predetermined threshold is detected at least in the first direction and in the second direction. The method further comprises monitoring, by the safety processor, the accelerometer for oscillating motion above the predetermined threshold in the first direction, in the second direction, and in the third direction, and transitioning, by the safety processor, the surgical instrument from suspend mode to the operating mode when oscillating motion is detected above a predetermined threshold in the first direction, second direction and third direction. The method also comprises increasing the predetermined time as the time since the previous move increases.

[00160] In another embodiment, the method comprises transitioning, by the security processor, the primary processor and at least one of the plurality of circuit segments from an active mode to a suspend mode and from a suspend mode to the active mode when a time since the last user initiated the event exceeds a predetermined threshold, tracking, by a timer, a time since the last motion detected by the acceleration segment, and the transition, by the safety processor, of the surgical device to active mode when the acceleration segment detects surgical instrument movement above a predetermined threshold.

[00161] In another embodiment, a method for controlling a surgical instrument comprises tracking the time since a last user initiated the event and disabling, by the security processor, a backlight of a screen when the time since the last user initiated the event exceeds a predetermined threshold. The method also comprises flashing, by the security processor, the backlight of the screen to indicate the user to look at the screen.

[00162] Various aspects of the subject matter described herein relate to methods of verifying the sterility of a surgical instrument via a sterilization verification circuit, the surgical instrument comprising a control circuit comprising a primary processor, a communicating security processor with the primary processor and a segmented circuit comprising a plurality of circuit segments in signal communication with the primary processor, the plurality of circuit segments comprising a storage verification segment, the method comprising indicating when a surgical instrument has been properly stored and sterilized. The method also comprises the detection, by at least one sensor, of one or more inappropriate storage or sterilization parameters. The method further comprises detecting by a fall protection sensor when the instrument has been dropped and preventing, by the safety processor, at least one of the plurality of circuit segments from functioning when the fall protection sensor detects that the surgical instrument has been dropped. The method also comprises preventing, by the security processor, the operation of at least one of the plurality of circuit segments when a temperature above a predetermined threshold is detected by a temperature sensor. The method also comprises preventing, by the security processor, the operation of at least one of the plurality of circuit segments when the temperature sensor detects a temperature above a predetermined threshold.

[00163] In another embodiment, the method comprises controlling, by the security processor, the operation of at least one of the plurality of circuit segments when a moisture detection sensor detects moisture. The method further comprises detecting, by a moisture detection sensor, an autoclaving cycle and preventing, by the safety processor, the operation of the surgical instrument unless the autoclaving cycle has been detected. The method also comprises preventing, by the security processor, the operation of at least one of the plurality of circuit segments when moisture is detected during a staged start.

[00164] In another embodiment, the method comprises indicating, by the plurality of circuit segments comprising a sterilization checking segment, when a surgical instrument has been properly sterilized. The method also comprises detecting, at least one sensor of the sterilization verification segment, the sterilization of the surgical instrument. The method also comprises indicating, by a storage verification segment, when a surgical instrument has been properly stored. The method also comprises detecting, by at least one sensor of the storage verification segment, improper storage of the surgical instrument.

[00165] The totality of disclosures from:

[00166] US Patent No. 5,403,312 entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE, which was issued April 4, 1995;

[00167] US Patent No. 7,000,818 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, which was issued February 21, 2006;

[00168] US Patent No. 7,422,139, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK, which was granted on September 9, 2008;

[00169] US Patent No. 7,464,849 entitled ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS, which was issued December 16, 2008;

[00170] US Patent No. 7,670,334, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN ARTICULATING END EFFECTOR, which was granted on March 2, 2010;

[00171] US Patent No. 7,753,245 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS, which was issued July 13, 2010;

[00172] US Patent No. 8,393,514 entitled SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE, which was granted on March 12, 2013;

[00173] US Patent Application Serial No. 11/343,803 entitled

MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT;

[00174] US Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,573, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES, filed on February 14, 2008;

[00175] US Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,873, entitled END EFFECTORS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT, filed on February 15, 2008, currently US Patent No. 7,980,443

[00176] US Patent Application Serial No. 12/235,782, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT, currently US Patent 8,210,411;

[00177] US Patent Application Serial No. 12/249,117 entitled POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM, currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0089970;

[00178] US Patent Application Serial No. 12/647,100, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ASSEMBLY, filed December 24, 2009;

[00179] US Patent Application Serial No. 12/893,461 entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE, filed September 29, 2012, currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0074198;

[00180] US Patent Application Serial No. 13/036,647, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT, filed February 28, 2011, currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0226837;

[00181] US Patent Application Serial No. 13/118,241 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0298719;

[00182] US Patent Application Serial No. 13/524,049, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE, filed on June 15, 2012;

[00183] US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,025, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed March 13, 2013;

[00184] US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed March 13, 2013;

[00185] US Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0175955, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM, filed January 31, 2006; and

[00186] US Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0264194 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR, filed April 22, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.

[00187] According to various embodiments, the surgical instruments described herein may comprise one or more processors (eg, microprocessor, microcontroller) coupled to various sensors. Furthermore, to the processor(s), a storage interface (having operating logic) and a communication interface are coupled to each other.

[00188] As described earlier, sensors can be configured to detect and collect data associated with the surgical device. The processor processes the data received by the sensor from the sensor(s).

[00189] Processor can be configured to execute operating logic. The processor may be any one of a number of individual or multi-core (multi-core) processors known in the art. The storage may comprise volatile and non-volatile storage media configured to store a temporal and persistent (working) copy of the operating logic.

[00190] In various embodiments, the working logic can be configured to process the collected biometric data associated with the user's movement data, as described above. In various embodiments, the operating logic can be configured to perform initial processing, and transmit the data to the computer hosting the application to determine and generate instructions. For these embodiments, the operating logic can be further configured to receive information and provide feedback to a host computer. In alternative embodiments, the operating logic can be configured to take on a greater role in receiving information and determining feedback. In either case, whether self-determined or responsive to instructions from a host computer, the operating logic can be further configured to control and provide feedback to the user.

[00191] In various embodiments, the operating logic can be implemented in instructions supported by the processor's instruction set architecture (ISA), or high-level languages and compiled into the supported ISA. The operating logic may comprise one or more logic units or modules. Operation logic can be implemented in an object-oriented manner. The operation logic can be configured to run in a multi-tasking and/or multi-threading mode. In other embodiments, the operating logic may be implemented in hardware, as an array of gates.

[00192] In various embodiments, the communication interface can be configured to facilitate communication between a peripheral device and the computing system. Communication may include transmission of collected biometric data associated with position, posture, and/or movement data of the user's body part(s) to a host computer, and transmission of data associated with haptic feedback. from the host computer to the peripheral device. In various embodiments, the communication interface may be a wired or wireless communication interface. An example of a wired communication interface may include, but is not limited to, a Universal Serial Bus (USB). An example of a wireless communication interface may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth interface.

[00193] For various modes, the processor can be packaged together with the operating logic. In various embodiments, the processor can be packaged together with the operating logic to form a System in Package (SIP). In various embodiments, the processor can be integrated into the same matrix with the operating logic. In various embodiments, the processor can be packaged together with the operating logic to form a System on Chip (SoC).

[00194] Several modalities can be described here, in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as software, program modules and/or engines being executed by a processor. Generally speaking, software, program modules and/or engines include any software element arranged to perform specific operations or implement specific abstract data types. Software, program modules and/or engines may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures and the like that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. An implementation of software components and techniques, program modules and/or engines may be stored on, and/or transmitted by, some form of computer readable media. In this sense, computer-readable media can be any available media or media that can be used to store information and that are accessible by a computing device. Some modalities can also be practiced in distributed computing environments, where operations are performed by one or more remote processing devices, which are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, software, program modules, and/or engines can be located on both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices. A memory such as random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage device can be used to store information and instructions to be executed by the processor. Memory can also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions to be executed by the processor.

[00195] Although some embodiments can be illustrated and described as comprising functional components, software, engines and/or modules performing various operations, it can be understood that these components or modules can be implemented by one or more hardware components, software components and /or a combination thereof. Functional components, software, engines and/or modules may be implemented, for example, by logic (e.g. instructions, data and/or code) to be executed by a logic device (e.g. processor). This logic can be stored internally or externally on a logical device, on one or more types of computer-readable storage media. In other embodiments, functional components such as software, motors and/or modules may be implemented by hardware elements which may include processors, microprocessors, circuits, circuit elements (e.g. transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors, and so on). ), integrated circuits, application specific integrated circuits (ASIC, "application specific integrated circuits"), programmable logic devices (PLD, "programmable logic devices"), digital signal processors (DSP, "digital signal processors") , field programmable gate array (FPGA), logic gates, registers, semiconductor device, integrated circuits, microchips, chipsets and so on.

[00196] Examples of software, engines and/or modules may include software components, programs, applications, computer programs, application programs, system programs, machine programs, operating system software, middleware, firmware, software modules , routines, subroutines, functions, methods, procedures, software interfaces, application program interfaces (API), instruction sets, computer code, computer code, code segments, computer code segments, words, values, symbols or any combination thereof. Determining whether a modality is implemented using hardware elements and/or software elements can vary depending on any number of factors, such as desired computational speed, power levels, heat tolerances, processing cycle provision. , input data rates, output data rates, memory resources, data bus speeds, and other design or performance constraints.

[00197] One or more of the modules described herein may comprise one or more embedded applications implemented as firmware, software, hardware, or any combination thereof. One or more of the modules described here may include multiple executable modules, such as software, programs, data, drivers, application programming interfaces (APIs), and so on. Firmware may be stored in 2016 controller memory and/or 2022 controller memory which may comprise nonvolatile memory-NVM, such as bit-masked read-only memory ( ROM) or flash memory. In many implementations, storing firmware in ROM can preserve flash memory. Non-volatile memory (NVM) may comprise other types of memory including, for example, programmable ROM (PROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM). , for "electrically erasable programmable ROM"), or battery backed random-access memory (RAM, for "random-access memory") battery-backed as dynamic RAM (DRAM, for "dynamic RAM"), dual-rate DRAM (DDRAM, for "Double-Data-Rate DRAM"), and/or synchronous DRAM (SDRAM, for "synchronous DRAM").

[00198] In some cases, several modalities can be implemented in the form of an article of manufacture. The article of manufacture may include computer readable storage media arranged to store logic, instructions and/or data for performing various operations of one or more embodiments. In various embodiments, for example, the article of manufacture may comprise a magnetic disk, an optical disk, flash memory, or firmware containing computer program instructions suitable for execution by a general-purpose processor or application-specific processor. The modalities, however, are not limited in this context.

[00199] The functions of the various functional elements, logic blocks, modules and the circuit elements described in connection with the modalities disclosed herein may be implemented in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as software, control modules, logic and/or logic modules executed by the processing unit. In general, software, control modules, logic and/or logic modules comprise any software element prepared to perform specific operations. Software, control modules, logic and/or logic modules may comprise routines, programs, objects, components, data structures and the like that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. An implementation of the software, control modules, logic and/or logic modules and techniques may be stored on, and/or transmitted by, some form of computer-readable media. In this sense, computer-readable media can be any available media or media that can be used to store information and that are accessible by a computing device. Some modalities can also be practiced in distributed computing environments, where operations are performed by one or more remote processing devices, which are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, software, logic control modules, and/or logic modules can be located on both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices.

[00200] Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the embodiments described herein illustrate exemplary implementations, and that functional elements, logic blocks, modules, and circuit elements may be implemented in various other ways that are consistent with the described embodiments. Furthermore, the operations performed by these functional elements, logic blocks, modules and circuit elements can be combined and/or separated by a given application and can be performed by a greater or lesser number of components or modules. As will be apparent to those of skill in the art, upon reading the present disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has components and features that can be readily separated from, or in combination with, the features of any one of several others. aspects without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Any method recited can be performed in the order of the recited events or in any other order that is logically possible.

[00201] It is important to note that any reference to "a modality" or "the modality" means that a specific feature, structure or characteristic described in relation to the modality is included in at least one modality. The appearance of the phrase "in an embodiment" or "in an aspect" in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[00202] Unless specifically stated otherwise, it should be understood that terms such as "processing", "computation", "calculate", "determination", or the like, refer to the action and/or processes of a system of computing or computer, or similar electronic computing device, such as a general purpose processor, a DSP, ASIC, FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein that manipulate and/or transform data represented as physical quantities (e.g. electronics) in records and/or memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within memories, records or other such storage devices, transmission or display of information.

[00203] It is important to note that some modalities can be described using the expression "coupled" and "connected" together with their derivatives. These terms are not intended to be synonymous with each other. For example, some modalities may be described using the terms "connected" and/or coupled to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact with each other. The term "coupled", however, can also mean that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other, but nevertheless cooperate or interact with each other. With respect to software elements, for example, the term "coupled" can refer to interfaces, message interfaces, application program interface (API), message exchange, and so on.

[00204] It is to be understood that any patent, publication, or other disclosure material deemed to be incorporated by reference herein, in whole or in part, is incorporated into the present invention only to the extent that the material incorporated does not conflict with the definitions, statements or other disclosed material set forth in this disclosure. Accordingly, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly presented herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated into the present invention by reference. Any material, or portions thereof, which is incorporated herein by reference, but which conflicts with the definitions, statements, or other existing disclosure material presented herein, is incorporated herein only to the extent that there is no conflict between the material embedded and existing developing material.

[00205] Revealed modalities have application in instrumentation for conventional open and endoscopic surgery, as well as application in robotic-assisted surgery.

[00206] The modalities of the devices disclosed herein may also be designed to be discarded after a single use, or to be used multiple times. Modalities may, in either or both cases, be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Overhaul can include any combination of the steps of disassembling the device, followed by cleaning or replacing specific parts, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, embodiments of the device may be dismantled, any number of parts or specific parts of the device may be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. By cleaning and/or replacing specific parts, device modalities can be reassembled for subsequent use in a refurbishment facility, or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure. Those skilled in the art will understand that rebuilding a device can use a variety of disassembly, cleaning/replacement and reassembly techniques. The use of such techniques and the resulting refurbished device are within the scope of this application.

[00207] By way of example only, the modalities described here may be processed prior to surgery. First, a new or used instrument can be obtained and, if necessary, cleaned. The instrument can then be sterilized. In a sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrument can then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, X-rays, or high-energy electrons. Radiation can kill bacteria on the instrument and container. The sterilized instrument can then be stored in a sterile container. The sealed container can keep the instrument sterile until it is opened in the medical facility. The device may also be sterilized using any other known technique, including, but not limited to, beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or water vapor.

[00208] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the components (e.g., operations), devices, and objects described in the present invention, and the accompanying discussion, are used as examples for conceptual clarity, and that various modifications are contemplated. of configuration. Accordingly, as used in the present invention, the specific exemplars shown and the accompanying discussion are intended to be representative of their more general classes. In general, the use of any particular instance is intended to be representative of its class, and the non-inclusion of specific components (eg operations), devices, and objects should not be considered limiting.

[00209] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms in the present invention, those skilled in the art may change from plural to singular and/or singular to plural as appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations are not expressly shown in the present invention for the sake of clarity.

[00210] The subject described in the present invention sometimes illustrates distinct components contained in other distinct components, or related to them. It is necessary to understand that these represented architectures are merely examples, and that, in fact, many other architectures can be implemented that achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively "linked" if the desired functionality is achieved. Thus, any two components mentioned in the present invention that are combined to achieve a specific functionality can be seen as "associated" with each other if the desired functionality is achieved, regardless of architectures or intermediate components. Similarly, any of these two components thus associated can also be seen as being "operablely linked" or "operablely coupled" to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any of these two components capable of being associated in this way may be seen as being "operablely dockable" to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operable dockable components include, but are not limited to, physically dockable and/or physically interacting components, and/or those that can interact wirelessly, and/or that interact logically, and/or can interact logically.

[00211] Some aspects can be described using the expression "coupled" and "connected" together with their derivatives. It must be understood that these terms are not conceived as synonyms with each other. For example, some aspects can be described using the term "connected" to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact with each other. In another example, some aspects can be described using the term "coupled" to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical contact or in electrical contact. The term "coupled", however, can also mean that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other, but nevertheless cooperate or interact with each other.

[00212] In some cases, one or more components may be referred to in the present invention as "configured for", "configurable for", "operable/operational for", "adapted/adaptable for", "capable of", "conformable/ conformed to", etc. Those skilled in the art will recognize that "configured for" can generally encompass active-state components, and/or idle-state components, and/or standby-state components, unless the context dictates otherwise.

[00213] While specific aspects of the subject matter described herein have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, based on the teachings of the present invention, changes and modifications can be made without departing from the subject matter described herein and aspects thereof. and therefore the appended claims are to encompass within their scope all such changes and modifications as are within the true scope of the subject matter described herein. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that, in general, the terms used herein, and particularly in the appended claims (e.g. bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g. the term "including" shall be interpreted as "including but not limited to", the term "having" shall be interpreted as "having at least", the term "includes" shall be interpreted as "includes, but is not limited to", etc. ). It will further be understood by those skilled in the art that when a specific number of an entered claim recitation is intended, such intent will be expressly recited in the claim and, in the absence of such recitation, no intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain the use of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of these phrases shall not be deemed to imply that the introduction of a recitation of claim by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any specific claim containing such recitation of claim introduced to claims containing only such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and the indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g. "a" and/or "an" should typically be interpreted to mean " at least one" or "one or more"); the same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce recitations of claims.

[00214] Furthermore, even when a specific number of an entered claim recitation is expressly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that the recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the number recited (e.g., the mere recitation of "two recitations" with no other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in cases where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc" is used, this construction is generally intended to mean that one skilled in the art will understand the convention (e.g., "a system that has at least one of A, B, and C" may include, but is not limited to, systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those cases where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc" is used, this construction is generally intended to mean that one skilled in the art will understand the convention (e.g., "a system that has at least one of A, B, and C" may include, but is not limited to, systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C in together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will further be understood by those skilled in the art that typically a disjunctive word and/or phrase having two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibility of including one of the terms, any of the terms, or both terms, unless the context dictates otherwise. For example, the phrase "A or B" will typically be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[00215] With respect to the appended claims, those skilled in the art will understand that the operations referred to therein can generally be carried out in any order. Also, although several operational flows are presented in some sequence(s), it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in orders other than those illustrated, or may be performed concurrently. Examples of such alternative orderings may include overlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental, preparatory, supplementary, simultaneous, reverse, or other miscellaneous orderings, unless the context dictates otherwise. Furthermore, terms such as "responsive to", "related to" or other adjectival participles are not generally intended to exclude these variants, unless the context dictates otherwise.

[00216] In summary, numerous benefits have been described that result from the use of the concepts described in this document. The aforementioned description of one or more embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. This description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form presented. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. One or more modalities have been chosen and described for the purpose of illustrating the principles and practical application to thus allow the skilled person to use the various modalities and with numerous modifications, as appropriate to the specific use contemplated. The attached claims are intended to define the global scope.

Claims (18)

1. Surgical instrument (2000), characterized in that it comprises: a surgical instrument control circuit (1100), comprising: a primary processor (1106); a security processor (1104) in signal communication with the primary processor; and a segmented circuit comprising a plurality of circuit segments (1102a-1102h) in signal communication with the primary processor, the plurality of circuit segments comprising a power segment (1102h), wherein the security processor is configured to do so. transitioning the primary processor and at least one of the plurality of circuit segments from an active mode to a suspended mode and from a suspended mode to an active mode; and a timer configured to track a time since a last user-initiated event, and wherein the security processor transitions the primary processor and at least one of the plurality of circuit segments to suspend mode when the time since the last user-initiated event exceeds a predetermined threshold. 2. Control circuit, according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises an acceleration segment configured to detect one or more movements of the surgical instrument. 3. Control circuit, according to claim 2, characterized in that the timer is configured to track a time since the last movement detected by the acceleration segment. 4. Control circuit, according to claim 2, characterized in that the safety processor is configured to keep the acceleration segment in active mode when transitioning the plurality of circuit segments to suspended mode. 5. Control circuit, according to claim 1, characterized in that the transition to the suspended mode comprises a plurality of stages. 6. Control circuit according to claim 5, characterized in that the plurality of circuit segments comprises a display segment, and wherein the plurality of stages comprises: a first stage in which a backlight of the display segment is dimmed, wherein the segmented circuit is configured to transition to the first stage after a predetermined first period; a second stage in which the backlight is turned off, the segmented circuit being configured to transition to the second stage after a second predetermined period; a third stage in which an accelerometer poll rate is reduced, the segmented circuit being configured to transition to the third stage after a predetermined third period; and a fourth stage in which a screen is turned off and the surgical instrument is configured to transition to suspend mode, with the segmented circuit being configured to transition to the fourth stage after a predetermined fourth period. 7. Control circuit, according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a touch sensor configured to detect the user's contact with a surgical instrument, and the security processor is configured to make the transition from the primary processor and the plurality of circuit segments from suspend mode to active mode, when the touch sensor detects a user in contact with the surgical instrument. 8. Control circuit, according to claim 7, characterized in that the touch sensor comprises a capacitive touch sensor. 9. Control circuit, according to claim 7, characterized in that the touch sensor comprises a temperature sensor. 10. Control circuit, according to claim 1, characterized in that the safety processor is configured to monitor at least one cable control, and the safety processor is configured to transition from the primary and from the plurality of circuit segments from suspend mode to active mode, when at least one cable control is actuated. 11. Control circuit, according to claim 10, characterized in that the at least one cable control comprises a grip control. 12. Control circuit, according to claim 10, characterized in that the at least one cable control comprises a release button. 13. Control, according to claim 1, characterized in that when the accelerometer detects movement of the surgical instrument above a predetermined threshold, the security processor is configured to transition the surgical device to active mode. 14. Control, according to claim 13, characterized in that the safety processor is configured to monitor the accelerometer to perform movement in at least a first and a second direction, and the safety processor is configured to transition the surgical instrument from suspend mode to operational mode, when movement in at least the first and second directions is detected to be above the predetermined threshold. 15. Control according to claim 14, characterized in that the safety processor is configured to monitor the accelerometer to perform oscillating movement above the predetermined limit in the first direction, in the second direction and in a third direction, and wherein the safety processor is configured to transition the surgical instrument from suspend mode to operational mode when oscillating motion in the first direction, second direction and third direction is detected to be above the predetermined threshold. 16. Control circuit, according to claim 13, characterized in that the predetermined limit increases as the time of the last movement increases. 17. Surgical instrument control circuit, according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of circuit segments comprises a display segment; and where the security processor is configured to disable a screen backlight when the time since the last user-initiated event exceeds a predetermined threshold 18. Surgical instrument, according to claim 17, characterized in that the security processor is configured to flash the screen backlight indicating a user to look at the screen.

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