CN110868942B - Surgical end effector with improved jaw aperture arrangement - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a surgical instrument that comprises a surgical end effector having a first jaw and a second jaw that is pivotably attached to the first jaw for pivotal travel between a fully open position and a fully closed position by an axially movable closure member. The instrument further includes an axially movable firing member having at least one jaw engagement feature configured to apply additional closing motion to the second jaw as the axially movable firing member moves from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position within the first end effector jaw. The distal end of the closure member is distal of the distal end of the at least one jaw engagement feature when the closure member is in the starting position and the axially movable firing member is in the proximal-most position.

Description

Surgical end effector with improved jaw hole arrangement

Background technique

The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various arrangements, to surgical stapling and cutting instruments and staple cartridges for use therewith designed to suture and cut tissue.

Description of the drawings

The various features of the embodiments described herein, along with their advantages, may be understood from the following description in conjunction with the following figures:

Figure 1 is a side elevation view of a surgical system including a handle assembly and a plurality of interchangeable surgical tool assemblies for use therewith;

Figure 2 is an exploded assembly view of portions of one of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies and the handle assembly depicted in Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of one of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies depicted in Figure 1;

Figure 4 is an exploded and assembled view of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is another exploded assembly view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 3 and 4;

6 is another exploded assembly view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-5;

Figure 7 is an exploded assembly view of the proximal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 3-6;

Figure 8 is another exploded assembly view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 3-7;

Figure 9 is another exploded assembly view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 3-8;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the proximal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 3-9;

Figure 11 is another perspective view of the proximal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 3-10;

12 is a cutaway perspective view of a proximal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-11;

Figure 13 is another cutaway perspective view of the proximal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 3-12;

Figure 14 is another cutaway perspective view of the proximal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 3-13;

15 is a cutaway perspective view of a distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-14;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of another of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies depicted in Figure 1;

Figure 17 is an exploded assembly view of the proximal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 16;

Figure 18 is another exploded assembly view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 16 and 17;

Figure 19 is a perspective view of another of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies depicted in Figure 1;

Figure 20 is an exploded assembly view of the proximal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 19;

Figure 21 is another exploded assembly view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 19 and 20;

Figure 22 is a perspective view of another of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies depicted in Figure 1;

Figure 23 is an exploded assembly view of the proximal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 22;

Figure 24 is another exploded assembly view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 22 and 23;

Figure 25 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 3 with its anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 26 is an enlarged side elevation view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 25;

Figure 27 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 16 with its anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 28 is an enlarged side elevation view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 27;

Figure 29 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 19 with its anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 30 is an enlarged side elevation view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 29;

Figure 31 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 22 with its anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 32 is an enlarged side elevation view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 31;

Figure 33 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 3 with its anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 34 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 16 with its anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 35 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 19 with its anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 36 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 22 with its anvil in a fully open position;

37 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of another interchangeable surgical tool assembly with its anvil shown in solid lines in one open position and in dashed lines in another open position;

Figure 38 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of another interchangeable surgical tool assembly with its anvil in an open position;

Figure 39 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 3 with its anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 40 is an enlarged side elevation view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 39;

Figure 41 is a side elevational view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figures 39 and 40 with its anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 42 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 16 with the anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 43 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 42 with its anvil in a fully closed position;

44 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 19 with the anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 45 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 44 with its anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 46 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 22 with its anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 47 is a side elevation view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 46 with its anvil in a fully closed position;

48 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 3 with the anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 49 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 16 with the anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 50 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 19 with the anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 51 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil mounting portion and elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 22 with the anvil in a fully open position;

52 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 3 with the anvil of its surgical end effector in a fully open position;

Figure 53 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 52 with the anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 54 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 16 with the anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 55 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 19 with the anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 56 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 22 with the anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 57 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 3 with its firing member in an initial position;

Figure 58 is a side elevation view of the surgical end effector of Figure 57 with the anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 59 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the surgical end effector of Figures 57 and 58 with the firing member in initial engagement with its anvil;

60 is another partial cross-sectional view of the surgical end effector of FIGS. 57 and 58 after the firing member of the surgical end effector has been advanced distally during the firing process;

60A is a perspective view of a portion of a firing member assembly of a surgical stapling instrument, the firing member assembly including a first firing member element and a second firing member element capable of being in a locked position relative to the first firing member element. movement between the and unlocked positions;

Figure 60B is another perspective view of the firing member assembly of Figure 60A with the second firing member element in a locked position;

Figure 60C is a cross-sectional elevation view of the surgical stapling instrument of Figure 60A with the firing member assembly in an initial position;

Figure 60D is another cross-sectional view of the surgical stapling instrument of Figure 60C shown in a locked configuration;

Figure 60E is a side view of the firing member assembly with the second firing member element in a locked orientation;

Figure 60F is another side view of the firing member assembly of Figure 60E, wherein the second firing member element is shown in an unlocked or firing orientation;

60G is another partial perspective view of the surgical stapling instrument of FIG. 60A shown in an unlocked configuration;

60H is a cross-sectional view of the surgical stapling instrument of FIG. 60A with the unfired surgical fastener cartridge operatively supported in its elongated channel and with the firing member assembly shown in an initial position;

Figure 60I is another cross-sectional view of the surgical stapling instrument of Figure 60H, wherein the firing member assembly is shown in a partially fired configuration;

Figure 61 is another side elevation view of the surgical end effector of Figures 57-60 with the anvil in an over-closed position;

Figure 62 is a partial side elevation view of the surgical end effector of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 3 in a fully open position with the distal closure tube segment shown in phantom to illustrate the anvil retaining member;

Figure 63 is another side elevation view of the surgical end effector of Figure 62 with the anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 64 is a partial perspective view of the distal closure segment of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 3 with the anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 65 is a top plan view of the distal closure segment and anvil of Figure 64;

Figure 66 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil and distal closure tube segment of Figures 64 and 65 showing the position of the proximal jaw opening features when the anvil is in the fully closed position;

67 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the anvil and distal closure segment of FIGS. 64-66 illustrating the proximal jaw opening features when the anvil is between a fully open position and a fully closed position. Location;

68 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the anvil and distal closure segment of FIGS. 64-67 illustrating the position of the proximal jaw opening feature when the anvil is in a fully open position;

69 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil and distal closure tube segment of FIGS. 64-68 illustrating the position of the distal jaw opening features when the anvil is in a fully closed position;

70 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil and distal closure tube segment of FIGS. 64-69 illustrating the position of the distal jaw opening feature when the anvil is between a fully open position and a fully closed position;

71 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the anvil and distal closure tube segment of FIGS. 64-70 illustrating the position of the distal jaw opening feature when the anvil is in a fully open position;

Figure 72 is a partial left side perspective view of the anvil and distal closure tube segment of Figures 64-71 with the anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 73 is a partial right side perspective view of the anvil and distal closure tube segment of Figures 64-72 with the anvil in a fully closed position;

Figure 74 is a partial left side perspective view of the anvil and distal closure tube section of Figures 64-73 with the anvil in a partially open position;

Figure 75 is a partial right side perspective view of the anvil and distal closure tube section of Figures 64-74 with the anvil in a partially open position;

Figure 76 is a partial left side perspective view of the anvil and distal closure tube segment of Figures 64-75 with the anvil in a fully open position;

Figure 77 is a partial right side perspective view of the anvil and distal closure tube segment of Figures 64-76 with the anvil in the fully open position 64-76; and

Figure 78 is a graphical comparison between jaw hole angle and retraction of the distal closure tube segments of Figures 64-77.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The examples described herein illustrate one form of various embodiments of the invention, and such examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way.

Detailed ways

The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on the same dates as this application and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

-The U.S. patent application titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN OFFSET ARTICULATION JOINT" has serial number __________; attorney docket number END8207USNP/170098;

-The U.S. patent application titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEM RATIO" has serial number __________; attorney docket number END8210USNP/170099;

-The U.S. patent application titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEM RATIO" has serial number __________; attorney docket number END8204USNP/170100;

-The U.S. patent application serial number __________ titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING FIRING MEMBER SUPPORTS"; attorney docket number END8218USNP/170101;

-The U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEMLOCKABLE TO A FRAME"; Attorney Docket No. END8217USNP/070102;

-The U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEMLOCKABLE BY A CLOSURE SYSTEM"; Attorney Docket No. END8211USNP/170103;

-The U.S. patent application serial number __________ entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHAFT INCLUDING A HOUSINGARRANGEMENT"; attorney docket number END8215USNP/170107;

-U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING SELECTIVELY ACTUATABLEROTATABLE COUPLERS"; Attorney Docket No. END8201USNP/170104;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ titled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS COMPRISING SHORTENED STAPLECARTRIDGE NOSES"; Attorney Docket No. END8206USNP/170105;

-The U.S. patent application titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHAFT INCLUDING A CLOSURETUBE PROFILE" has serial number __________; attorney docket number END8212USNP/170106;

-The U.S. patent application serial number __________ entitled "METHOD FOR ARTICULATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT"; attorney docket number END8200USNP/170089M;

-The U.S. patent application titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR WITH AXIALLY SHORTENED ARTICULATION JOINT CONFIGURATIONS", serial number __________; attorney docket number END8214USNP/170090;

-The U.S. patent application entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OPEN AND CLOSABLE JAWS AND AXIALLYMOVABLE FIRING MEMBER THAT IS INITIALLY PARKED IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE JAWSPRIOR TO FIRING", serial number __________; attorney docket number END8202USNP/170091;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAWS CONSTRAINED TO PIVOT ABOUT ANAXIS UPON CONTACT WITH A CLOSURE MEMBER THAT IS PARKED IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TOTHE PIVOT AXIS"; Attorney Docket No. END8213USNP/170092;

-The U.S. patent application titled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING DEVICES WITH PIVOTABLE ANVILWITH A TISSUE LOCATING ARRANGEMENT IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO AN ANVIL PIVOT", serial number __________; attorney docket number END8205USNP/170094;

-The U.S. patent application serial number __________ titled "JAW RETAINER ARRANGEMENT FOR RETAINING A PIVOTABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENT JAW IN PIVOTABLE RETAINING ENGAGEMENT WITH A SECOND SURGICALINSTRUMENT JAW"; attorney docket number END8216USNP/170095;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES"; Attorney Docket No. END8208USNP/170096;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE MEMBER"; Attorney Docket No. END8209USNP/170097;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENT" entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENT"; Attorney Docket No. END8233USNP/170084;

-The U.S. design patent application titled "STAPLE FORMING ANVIL" has serial number __________; attorney's docket number END8236USDP/170109D;

- U.S. design patent application titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT" Serial No. __________; Attorney Docket No. END8239USDP/170108D; and

-The U.S. design patent application titled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE" has serial number __________; attorney docket number END8240USDP/170110D.

The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 27, 2017, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number ________ titled "SURGICAL ANVIL MANUFACTURING METHODS"; Attorney Docket No. END8165USNP/170079M;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ titled "SURGICAL ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS"; Attorney Docket No. END8168USNP/170080;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ titled "SURGICAL ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS"; Attorney Docket No. END8170USNP/170081;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ titled "SURGICAL ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS"; Attorney Docket No. END8164USNP/170082;

-U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ titled "SURGICAL FIRING MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS"; Attorney Docket No. END8169USNP/170083;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ entitled "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS"; Attorney Docket No. END8167USNP/170085;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ entitled "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS"; Attorney Docket No. END8232USNP/170086;

- U.S. patent application entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND ANVILS" Serial No. __________; Attorney Docket No. END8166USNP/170087; and

- U.S. Patent Application Serial Number __________ entitled "ARTICULATION SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; Attorney Docket No. END8171USNP/170088.

The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on December 21, 2016, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,185 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIESTHEREOF";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,230 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,221 entitled "LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,209 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND FIRING MEMBERS THEREOF";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,198 entitled "LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS ANDREPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,240 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND ADAPTABLE FIRING MEMBERS THEREFOR";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,939 titled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,941 entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS FORSHIFTING BETWEEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES ANDARTICULATION AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,943 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,950 entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTIONFEATURES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,945 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,946 titled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,951 titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAW OPENING FEATURES FOR INCREASINGA JAW OPENING DISTANCE";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,953 entitled "METHODS OF STAPLING TISSUE";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,954 entitled "FIRING MEMBERS WITH NON-PARALLEL JAW ENGAGEMENT FEATURES FORSURGICAL END EFFECTORS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,955 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH EXPANDABLE TISSUE STOPARRANGEMENTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,948 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,956 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,958 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTINGFIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION UNLESS AN UNSPENT STAPLE CARTRIDGE IS PRESENT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,947 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,896 entitled "METHOD FOR RESETTING A FUSE OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,898 titled "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENT TO ACCOMMODATE DIFFERENTTYPES OF STAPLES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,899 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING IMPROVED JAW CONTROL";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,901 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE AND STAPLE CARTRIDGE CHANNEL COMPRISINGWINDOWS DEFINED THEREIN";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,902 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CUTTING MEMBER";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,904 entitled "STAPLE FIRING MEMBER COMPRISING A MISSING CARTRIDGE AND/ORSPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,905 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,907 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN END EFFECTOR LOCKOUTAND A FIRING ASSEMBLY LOCKOUT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,908 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FUSE";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,909 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MULTIPLE FAILED-STATE FUSE";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,920 titled "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,913 entitled "ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,914 entitled "METHOD OF DEFORMING STAPLES FROM TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OFSTAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH THE SAME SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,893 entitled "BILATERALLY ASYMMETRIC STAPLE FORMING POCKET PAIRS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,929 entitled "CLOSURE MEMBERS WITH CAM SURFACE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,911 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLECLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,927 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH SMART STAPLE CARTRIDGES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,917 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENT CLAMPINGBREADTHS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,900 entitled "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING PRIMARYSIDEWALLS AND POCKET SIDEWALLS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,931 entitled "NO-CARTRIDGE AND SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FORSURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,915 entitled "FIRING MEMBER PIN ANGLE";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,897 entitled "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING ZONED FORMINGSURFACE GROOVES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,922 titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FAILURE RESPONSE MODES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,924 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PRIMARY AND SAFETY PROCESSORS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,912 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAWS THAT ARE PIVOTABLE ABOUT AFIXED AXIS AND INCLUDE SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,910 entitled "ANVIL HAVING A KNIFE SLOT WIDTH";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,906 entitled "FIRING MEMBER PIN CONFIGURATIONS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,188 entitled "STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH ASYMMETRICAL STAPLES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,192 entitled "STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH TISSUE RETENTION AND GAPSETTING FEATURES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,206 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH DEFORMABLE DRIVER RETENTION FEATURES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,226 entitled "DURABILITY FEATURES FOR END EFFECTORS AND FIRING ASSEMBLIESOF SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,222 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS HAVING END EFFECTORS WITHPOSITIVE OPENING FEATURES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/386,236 entitled "CONNECTION PORTIONS FOR DEPOSABLE LOADING UNITS FOR SURGICALSTAPLING INSTRUMENTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,887 titled "METHOD FOR ATTACHING A SHAFT ASSEMBLY TO A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND, ALTERNATIVELY, TO A SURGICAL ROBOT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,889 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MANUALLY-OPERABLE RETRACTIONSYSTEM FOR USE WITH A MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,890 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING SEPARATELY ACTUATABLE ANDRETRACTABLE SYSTEMS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,891 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A CLUTCH CONFIGURED TO ADAPT THEOUTPUT OF A ROTARY FIRING MEMBER TO TWO DIFFERENT SYSTEMS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,892 entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING A FIRING MEMBER ROTATABLE INTO ANARTICULATION STATE TO ARTICULATE AN END EFFECTOR OF THE SURGICAL SYSTEM";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,894 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,895 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING FIRST AND SECOND ARTICULATIONLOCKOUTS";

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,916 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,918 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS";

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,919 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,921 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENER CARTRIDGE WITH MOVABLE CAMMINGMEMBER CONFIGURED TO DISENGAGE FIRING MEMBER LOCKOUT FEATURES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,923 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,925 entitled "JAW ACTUATED LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING ADVANCEMENT OFA FIRING MEMBER IN A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR UNLESS AN FIRED CARTRIDGE ISINSTALLED IN THE END EFFECTOR";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,926 titled "AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR APPLYINGCLOSURE MOTIONS TO JAWS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,928 entitled "PROTECTIVE COVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR A JOINT INTERFACE BETWEEN AMOVABLE JAW AND ACTUATOR SHAFT OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,930 titled "SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH TWO SEPARATE COOPERATING OPENINGFEATURES FOR OPENING AND CLOSING END EFFECTOR JAWS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,932 titled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH ASYMMETRIC SHAFTARRANGEMENT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,933 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH INDEPENDENT PIVOTABLELINKAGE DISTAL OF AN ARTICULATION LOCK";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,934 titled "ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR INAN ARTICULATED POSITION IN RESPONSE TO ACTUATION OF A JAW CLOSURE SYSTEM";

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,935 entitled "LATERALLY ACTUATABLE ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FORLOCKING AN END EFFECTOR OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT IN AN ARTICULATEDCONFIGURATION"; and

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/385,936 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATION STROKEAMPLIFICATION FEATURES";

The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/191,775 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/191,807 entitled "STAPLING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPEDSTAPLES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/191,834 entitled "STAMPED STAPLES AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES USING THE SAME";

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,788 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OVERDRIVEN STAPLES"; and

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,818 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OFFSET LONGITUDINAL STAPLE ROWS".

The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

-U.S. design patent application serial number 29/569,218 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER";

-U.S. design patent application serial number 29/569,227 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER";

- U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,259 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE"; and

- U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,264 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE".

The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, which were submitted on April 1, 2016 and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,325 entitled "METHOD FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,321 entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,326 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY INCLUDING A RE-ORIENTABLE DISPLAY FIELD";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,263 titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE ASSEMBLY WITH RECONFIGURABLE GRIPPORTION";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,262 entitled "ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MANUALLY ACTUATABLEBAILOUT SYSTEM";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,277 entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING END EFFECTOR WITH ANVILCONCENTRIC DRIVE MEMBER";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,296 entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLY WITH A SURGICAL ENDEFFECTOR THAT IS SELECTIVELY ROTATABLE ABOUT A SHAFT AXIS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,258 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,278 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO PROVIDE SELECTIVECUTTING OF TISSUE";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,284 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CONTOURABLE SHAFT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,295 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A TISSUE COMPRESSIONLOCKOUT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,300 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN UNCLAMPING LOCKOUT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,196 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,203 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW ATTACHMENT LOCKOUT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,210 titled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SPENT CARTRIDGELOCKOUT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,324 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHIFTING MECHANISM";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,335 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING MULTIPLE LOCKOUTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,339 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,253 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO APPLY ANNULAR ROWS OFSTAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT HEIGHTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,304 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A GROOVED FORMING POCKET";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,331 entitled "ANVIL MODIFICATION MEMBERS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,336 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH ATRAUMATIC FEATURES";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/089,312 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INCISABLE TISSUESUPPORT";

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,309 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ROTARY FIRING SYSTEM"; and

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,349 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING LOAD CONTROL".

The applicant of this application also owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on December 31, 2015 and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/984,488 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR BATTERY PACK FAILURE INPOWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,525 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,552 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARABLE MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROLCIRCUITS".

The applicant of this application also owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on February 9, 2016, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/019,220 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLYTRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/019,228 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE LINK ARTICULATIONARRANGEMENTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/019,196 titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTEDSECONDARY CONSTRAINT";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/019,206 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH AN END EFFECTOR THAT IS HIGHLYARTICULATABLE RELATIVE TO AN ELONGATE SHAFT ASSEMBLY";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/019,215 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH NON-SYMMETRICAL ARTICULATIONARRANGEMENTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/019,227 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SINGLE ARTICULATIONLINK ARRANGEMENTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/019,235 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH TENSIONING ARRANGEMENTS FOR CABLEDRIVEN ARTICULATION SYSTEMS";

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,230 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-AXIS FIRING BEAMARRANGEMENTS"; and

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTIONARRANGEMENTS".

The applicant of this application also owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on February 12, 2016, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/043,254 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

- U.S. patent application serial number 15/043,259 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,275 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,289 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS".

The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, which were submitted on June 18, 2015 and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/742,925 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENINGARRANGEMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0367256;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/742,941 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH DUAL CAM ACTUATED JAW CLOSINGFEATURES", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0367248;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/742,914 entitled "MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0367255;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/742,900 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH COMPOSITE FIRING BEAMSTRUCTURES WITH CENTER FIRING SUPPORT MEMBER FOR ARTICULATION SUPPORT", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0367254;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,885 entitled "DUAL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016/0367246; and

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/742,876 entitled "PUSH/PULL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0367245.

The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, which were submitted on March 6, 2015 and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/640,746 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0256184;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/640,795 entitled "MULTIPLE LEVEL THRESHOLDS TO MODIFY OPERATION OF POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/02561185;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/640,832 titled "ADAPTIVE TISSUE COMPRESSION TECHNIQUES TO ADJUST CLOSURERATES FOR MULTIPLE TISSUE TYPES", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0256154;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/640,935 entitled "OVERLAID MULTI SENSOR RADIO FREQUENCY(RF)ELECTRODE SYSTEM TOMEASURE TISSUE COMPRESSION", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0256071;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/640,831 entitled "MONITORING SPEED CONTROL AND PRECISION INCREMENTING OF MOTORFOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0256153;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/640,859 entitled "TIME DEPENDENT EVALUATION OF SENSOR DATA TO DETERMINESTABILITY, CREEP, AND VISCOELASTIC ELEMENTS OF MEASURES", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0256187;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/640,817 entitled "INTERACTIVE FEEDBACK SYSTEM FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0256186;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/640,844 entitled "CONTROL TECHNIQUES AND SUB-PROCESSOR CONTAINED WITHIN MODULARSHAFT WITH SELECT CONTROL PROCESSING FROM HANDLE", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0256155;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/640,837 entitled "SMART SENSORS WITH LOCAL SIGNAL PROCESSING", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0256163;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/640,765 entitled "SYSTEM FOR DETECTING THE MIS-INSERTION OF A STAPLE CARTRIDGEINTO A SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENER", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0256160;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,799 entitled "SIGNAL AND POWER COMMUNICATION SYSTEM POSITIONED ON AROTATABLE SHAFT", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016/0256162; and

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,780 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A LOCKABLE BATTERY HOUSING", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016/0256161.

The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, which were submitted on February 27, 2015 and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/633,576 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INSPECTION STATION", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0249919;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/633,546 entitled "SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO ASSESS WHETHER A PERFORMANCEPARAMETER OF THE SURGICAL APPARATUS IS WITHIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE BAND", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0249915;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/633,560 entitled "SURGICAL CHARGING SYSTEM THAT CHARGES AND/OR CONDITIONS ONEOR MORE BATTERIES", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0249910;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/633,566 entitled "CHARGING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES EMERGENCY RESOLUTIONS FORCHARGING A BATTERY", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0249918;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/633,555 entitled "SYSTEM FOR MONITORING WHETHER A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT NEEDS TOBE SERVICED", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0249916;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/633,542 entitled "REINFORCED BATTERY FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0249908;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/633,548 entitled "POWER ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0249909;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/633,526 entitled "ADAPTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0249945;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,541 entitled "MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016/0249927; and

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,562 entitled "SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFEPARAMETER", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016/0249917.

The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, which were submitted on December 18, 2014 and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/574,478 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE ENDEFFECTOR AND MEANS FOR ADJUSTING THE FIRING STROKE OF A FIRING MEMBER", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0174977;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/574,483 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LOCKABLE SYSTEMS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0174969;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/575,139 entitled "DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0174978;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/575,148 entitled "LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITH ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTORS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0174976;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/575,130 titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AN ANVIL THAT IS SELECTIVELY MOVABLEABOUT A DISCRETE NON-MOVABLE AXIS RELATIVE TO A STAPLE CARTRIDGE, now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0174972;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/575,143 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0174983;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/575,117 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS ANDMOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0174975;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/575,154 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS ANDIMPROVED FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0174973;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,493 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FLEXIBLEARTICULATION SYSTEM"; now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016/0174970; and

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/574,500 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKABLEARTICULATION SYSTEM", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0174971.

The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications filed on March 1, 2013 and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/782,295 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CONDUCTIVE PATHWAYSFOR SIGNAL COMMUNICATION", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0246471;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/782,323 entitled "ROTARY POWERED ARTICULATION JOINTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0246472;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/782,338 entitled "THUMBWHEEL SWITCH ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0249557;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/782,499 entitled "ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL DEVICE WITH SIGNAL RelayARRANGEMENT", now U.S. patent application publication 9,358,003;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/782,460 entitled "MULTIPLE PROCESSOR MOTOR CONTROL FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. Patent 9,554,794;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/782,358 entitled "JOYSTICK SWITCH ASSEMBLIES FOR SURGICAL Instruments", now U.S. patent application publication 9,326,767;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/782,481 entitled "SENSOR STRAIGHTENED END EFFECTOR DURING REMOVAL THROUGHTROCAR", now U.S. patent application publication 9,468,438;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/782,518 entitled "Control Methods for Surgical Instruments with RemovableImplement Portions", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0246475;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,375 entitled "ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE DEGREES OFFREEDOM", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 9,398,911; and

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/782,536 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SOFT STOP", now U.S. patent application publication 9,307,986.

The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, which were submitted on March 14, 2013 and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/803,097 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0263542;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/803,193 entitled "CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now U.S. patent application publication 9,332,987;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/803,053 entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0263564;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/803,086 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATIONLOCK", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0263541;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/803,210 entitled "SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FORSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0263538;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/803,148 entitled "MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0263554;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/803,066 entitled "DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. Patent 9,629,623;

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/803,117 entitled "ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 9,351,726;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,130 entitled "DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 9,351,727; and

- U.S. patent application serial number 13/803,159 entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0277017.

The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, which were submitted on March 7, 2014 and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety:

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/200,111 entitled "CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. Patent 9,629,629.

The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, which were submitted on March 26, 2014 and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,106 entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272582;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,099 entitled "STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272581;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,094 entitled "VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES/PROCEDURE COUNT", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272580;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,117 entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUITAND WAKE UP CONTROL", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272574;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,075 entitled "MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFTASSEMBLIES", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272579;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,093 entitled "FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272569;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,116 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272571;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,071 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETYPROCESSOR", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272578;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,097 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272570;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,126 entitled "INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272572;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,133 entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0272557;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,081 entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SEGMENTED CIRCUIT", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0277471;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/226,076 entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLE VOLTAGE PROTECTION", now U.S. patent application publication 2015/0280424;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,111 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2015/0272583; and

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,125 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2015/0280384.

The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, which were filed on September 5, 2014 and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/479,103 entitled "CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0066912;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/479,119 entitled "ADJUNCT WITH INTEGRATED SENSORS TO QUANTIFY TISSUECOMPRESSION", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0066914;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/478,908 entitled "MONITORING DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0066910;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/478,895 entitled "MULTIPLE SENSORS WITH ONE SENSOR AFFECTING A SECOND SENSOR'SOUTPUT OR INTERPRETATION", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0066909;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/479,110 entitled "POLARITY OF HALL MAGNET TO DETECT MISLOADED CARTRIDGE", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0066915;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/479,098 entitled "SMART CARTRIDGE WAKE UP OPERATION AND DATA RETENTION", now U.S. patent application publication 2016/0066911;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,115 entitled "MULTIPLE MOTOR CONTROL FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016/0066916; and

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,108 entitled "LOCAL DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016/0066913.

The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, which were submitted on April 9, 2013 and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/248,590 entitled "MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVESHAFTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0305987;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/248,581 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSING DRIVE AND A FIRINGDRIVE OPERATED FROM THE SAME ROTATABLE OUTPUT", now U.S. Patent 9,649,110;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/248,595 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLINGTHE OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0305988;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/248,588 entitled "POWERED LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENER", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0309666;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/248,591 entitled "TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0305991;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/248,584 entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENTFEATURES FOR ALIGNING ROTARY DRIVE SHAFTS WITH SURGICAL END EFFECTOR SHAFTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0305994;

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/248,587 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENER", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0309665;

- U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,586 entitled "DRIVE SYSTEM DECOUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0305990; and

- U.S. patent application serial number 14/248,607 entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH STATUS INDICATION ARRANGEMENTS", now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0305992.

The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, which were submitted on April 16, 2013 and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,365 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY ASINGLE MOTOR";

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,376 entitled "LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER";

-U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,382 entitled "LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP";

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,385 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLE ACTUATION MOTORS ANDMOTOR CONTROL"; and

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,372 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY ASINGLE MOTOR".

Numerous specific details are set forth herein in order to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments described in the specification and illustrated in the drawings. Well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and accordingly it will be appreciated that specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative. Modifications and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims.

The terms "comprise" (and any form of "comprise" such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and "have" any form, such as "has" and "having"), "include" (and any form of "include", such as "includes" and "including" ”), and “contain” (and any form of “contain,” such as “contains” and “containing”) are open copulas. Thus, a surgical system, device, or device that "comprises," "has," "includes" or "contains" one or more elements has, but is not limited to, having only these one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, apparatus, or device that "comprises," "has," "includes" or "contains" one or more features has those one or more features, but is not limited to having only those one or more features. A characteristic part.

The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein with respect to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of a surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the portion closest to the clinician, and the term "distal" refers to the portion located away from the clinician. It will also be understood that, for the sake of brevity and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," and "lower" may be used herein in connection with the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not limiting and/or absolute.

Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, the reader will readily appreciate that the various methods and devices disclosed herein may be used in a variety of surgical procedures and applications, including, for example, in conjunction with open surgical procedures. As the reader continues to refer to the detailed description, the reader will further understand that the various devices disclosed herein can be inserted into the body in any manner, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or puncture hole formed in the tissue, or the like. The working or end effector portion of the instrument may be inserted directly into the patient or may be inserted through an access device having a working channel through which the end effector and elongated shaft of the surgical instrument may be advanced.

The surgical suturing system may include a shaft and an end effector extending from the shaft. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw includes a nail cartridge. The staple cartridge is insertable into and removable from the first jaw; however, other embodiments are contemplated in which the staple cartridge is not removable from the first jaw, or at least can be easily replaced from the first jaw. The second jaw includes an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge. The second jaw is pivotable relative to the first jaw about the closing axis; however, other embodiments are contemplated in which the first jaw is pivotable relative to the second jaw. The surgical suturing system also includes an articulation joint configured to allow the end effector to rotate or articulate relative to the axis. The end effector is capable of rotating about an articulation axis extending through the articulation joint. Other embodiments are contemplated that do not include articulation joints.

The nail bin includes a bin body. The cartridge body includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a platform extending between the proximal end and the distal end. In use, the staple cartridge is positioned on a first side of the tissue to be sutured and the anvil is positioned on a second side of the tissue. The anvil moves toward the staple cartridge to compress and clamp the tissue against the platform. The staples removably stored in the cartridge body can then be deployed into tissue. The cartridge body includes a staple cavity defined therein, wherein staples are removably stored in the staple cavity. The nail cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows. Three rows of staple cavities are positioned on the first side of the longitudinal slot and three rows of staple cavities are positioned on the second side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of nail cavities and nails are also possible.

The staples are supported by a staple drive in the cartridge body. The drive device is movable between a first or non-firing position and a second or firing position to eject staples from the staple cartridge. The drive device is retained in the cartridge body by a retainer that extends around the bottom of the cartridge body and includes an elastic member configured to grip the cartridge body and retain the retainer to the cartridge body. The drive is movable by means of a slide between its non-firing position and its firing position. The slide is movable between a proximal position adjacent the proximal end and a distal position adjacent the distal end. The slider includes a plurality of ramp surfaces configured to slide under the drive device toward the anvil and lift the drive device, and the nail is supported on the drive device.

In addition to the above, the slide may be moved distally by the firing member. The firing member is configured to contact the slider and urge the slider toward the distal end. A longitudinal slot defined in the cartridge body is configured to receive the firing member. The anvil also includes a slot configured to receive the firing member. The firing member also includes a first cam engaging the first jaw and a second cam engaging the second jaw. The first cam and the second cam may control the distance or tissue gap between the platform and the anvil of the staple cartridge as the firing member is advanced distally. The firing member also includes a knife configured to cut into tissue captured between the staple cartridge and the anvil. It is desirable that the knife be positioned at least partially proximate the ramp surface so that the nail is ejected before the knife.

Figure 1 illustrates a motor-driven surgical system 10 that can be used to perform a variety of different surgical procedures. As seen in this figure, one example of surgical system 10 includes four interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000 , 3000 , 5000 , and 7000 , each of which is adapted to be interchangeable with handle assembly 500 use together. Each of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, and 7000 may be designed for use in conjunction with the performance of one or more specific surgical procedures. In another surgical system embodiment, one or more of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, and 7000 may be effectively used with a robotically controlled surgical system or a tool drive assembly of an automated surgical system. For example, the surgical tool assemblies disclosed herein may be used with a variety of robotic systems, instruments, components and methods such as, but not limited to, those disclosed in U.S. Patent 9,072,535 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS" The application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIG. 2 illustrates attachment of interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 to handle assembly 500. It should be understood that any of the other interchangeable tool assemblies 3000, 5000, and 7000 may be coupled to the handle assembly 500 in a similar manner. The attachment arrangement and method depicted in Figure 2 may also be used in conjunction with attachment of any of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, and 7000 to a tool drive portion or tool drive housing of a robotic system. The handle assembly 500 can include a handle housing 502 including a pistol grip portion 504 that can be grasped and manipulated by a clinician. As will be discussed briefly below, the handle assembly 500 operatively supports a plurality of drive systems 510, 530 configured to generate and apply various control motions to the operably attached Corresponding portions of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, and/or 7000 are attached thereto.

As seen in Figure 2, the handle assembly 500 may also include a handle frame 506 operatively supporting a plurality of drive systems. For example, the handle frame 506 may operatively support a "first" or closure actuation system, generally designated 510, which may be used to impart closing and opening motion to the operably attached Or interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000 , 3000 , 5000 and 7000 coupled to handle assembly 500 . In at least one form, closure drive system 510 may include an actuator in the form of closure trigger 512 pivotally supported by handle frame 506 . Such a configuration would enable the closure trigger 512 to be manipulated by the clinician such that the closure trigger 512 can be easily moved from the activated or "unactuated" position when the clinician holds the pistol grip portion 504 of the handle assembly 500 Pivot to the "actuated" position and more specifically to the fully compressed or fully actuated position. In various forms, the closure drive system 510 also includes a closure link assembly 514 that is pivotally coupled to or otherwise operably connected with the closure trigger 512 . As will be discussed in further detail below, in the illustrated example, the closure link assembly 514 includes a lateral attachment pin 516 that facilitates attachment to a corresponding drive system on the surgical tool assembly. In use, to actuate closure actuation system 510 , the clinician depresses closure trigger 512 toward pistol grip portion 504 . As described in further detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,142 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM" (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2015/0272575) (which patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety), When the clinician fully depresses the closure trigger 512 to achieve a full closure stroke, the closure drive system 510 is configured to lock the closure trigger 512 to a fully depressed or fully actuated position. When the clinician desires to unlock the closure trigger 512 to allow it to be biased to the unactuated position, the clinician simply activates the closure release button assembly 518 that enables the closure trigger to return to the unactuated position. The closure release button assembly 518 may also be configured to interact with various sensors that communicate with the microprocessor 560 in the handle assembly 500 to track the position of the closure trigger 512 . Further details regarding the construction and operation of the closure release button assembly 518 can be found in US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272575.

In at least one form, handle assembly 500 and handle frame 506 may operatively support another drive system, referred to herein as firing drive system 530, configured to impart a firing motion to the attached to its counterpart in the interchangeable surgical tool assembly. As described in detail in US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272575, the firing drive system 530 may employ an electric motor 505 located in the pistol grip portion 504 of the handle assembly 500. In various forms, the motor 505 may be, for example, a DC brush drive motor with a maximum rotation of approximately 25,000 RPM. In other arrangements, motor 505 may include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. Motor 505 may be powered by a power source 522, which in one form may include a removable power pack. The power pack may support multiple lithium-ion ("LI") or other suitable batteries therein. Multiple batteries connected in series may be used as power source 522 for surgical system 10 . Additionally, power source 522 may be replaceable and/or rechargeable.

The electric motor 505 is configured to drive a longitudinally movable drive member (not shown) axially in the distal and proximal directions depending on the polarity of the motor. For example, when the motor is driven in one rotational direction, the longitudinally movable drive member will be driven axially in the distal direction "DD". When the motor 505 is driven in the opposite rotational direction, the longitudinally movable drive member will be driven axially in the proximal direction "PD". The handle assembly 500 may include a switch 513 that may be configured to reverse the polarity applied to the electric motor 505 by the power source 522 or otherwise control the motor 505 . The handle assembly 500 may also include one or more sensors (not shown) configured to detect the position of the drive member and/or the direction of movement of the drive member. Actuation of the motor 505 may be controlled by a firing trigger 532 (FIG. 1) pivotally supported on the handle assembly 500. The firing trigger 532 is pivotable between an unactuated position and an actuated position. The firing trigger 532 may be biased into the unactuated position by a spring or other biasing arrangement such that when the clinician releases the firing trigger 532, the firing trigger 532 may pivot or otherwise return by the spring or other biasing arrangement. to the unactuated position. In at least one form, the firing trigger 532 may be positioned "outboard" of the closing trigger 512 as described above. As discussed in US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272575, the handle assembly 500 may be equipped with a firing trigger safety button (not shown) to prevent inadvertent actuation of the firing trigger 532 . The safety button is contained in the handle assembly 500 when the closing trigger 512 is in the unactuated position, in which case the safety button is not readily accessible to the clinician and disables the safety button in a manner that prevents actuation of the firing trigger 532 Movement between the safety position and the firing position in which firing trigger 532 may be fired. When the clinician depresses the closing trigger 512, the safety button and firing trigger 532 pivot downward and can then be manipulated by the clinician.

In at least one form, the longitudinally movable drive member may have a rack of teeth (not shown) formed thereon for meshing engagement with a corresponding drive gear arrangement (not shown) that interfaces with the motor. . Further details regarding those features can be found in US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272575. At least one form also includes a manually actuable "rescue" assembly configured to enable a clinician to manually retract the longitudinally movable drive member 120 in the event that the motor 505 becomes disabled. The rescue assembly may include a lever or rescue handle assembly that is stored within handle assembly 500 below releasable door 550 . See Figure 2. The lever may be configured to be manually pivotable into engagement with a toothed ratchet in the drive member. Thus, the clinician can manually retract the drive member using the rescue handle assembly to ratchet the drive member in the proximal direction "PD". U.S. Patent 8,608,045, entitled "POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUSWITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM," the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference, discloses salvage arrangements and various interoperable devices that may also be used as disclosed herein. Other components, arrangements, and systems used with any of the surgical tool assemblies.

Turning now to FIGS. 3 and 4 , the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 includes a surgical end effector 1500 that includes a first jaw 1600 and a second jaw 1800 . In one arrangement, the first jaw includes an elongated channel 1602 configured to operatively support a surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700 therein. Second jaw 1800 includes an anvil 1810 pivotally supported relative to elongated channel 1602 . The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 includes an articulation system 1300 that includes an articulation joint 1302 and an articulation lock 1400 (Figs. 4-6), which can be configured to enable the surgical tip to be Actuator 1500 is releasably held in a desired articulation position relative to shaft axis _SA1 . Further details regarding the articulation system and articulation lock may be found in the United States Patent Application entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEM LOCKABLE TO AFRAME" (Attorney Docket No. END8217USNP/170102); filed in the same filing as the present application. date of submission and the entire text is incorporated herein by reference.

As further seen in Figures 4 and 7-9, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 includes a tool frame assembly 1200 that includes a tool base 1210 operatively supporting a nozzle assembly 1240 thereon. In one form, the nozzle assembly 1240 is composed of the nozzle portions 1242, 1244 and an actuator wheel portion 1246 configured to be coupled to the assembled nozzle portion via snaps, lugs, screws, etc. 1242, 1244. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 includes a proximal closure assembly 1900 operatively coupled to a distal closure assembly 2000 for closing and/or opening the surgical end. Anvil 1810 of actuator 1500, as will be discussed in further detail below. Additionally, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 includes a spine assembly 1250 operatively supporting the proximal closure assembly 1900 and coupled to the surgical end effector 1500 . In various cases, to facilitate assembly, spine assembly 1250 may be made from upper and lower spine segments 1251 , 1252 interconnected together by snap features, adhesive, welding, or the like. In assembled form, spine assembly 1250 includes a proximal end 1253 rotatably supported in tool base 1210 . In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end 1253 of the spine assembly 1250 is attached to a spine bearing (not shown) configured to be supported within the tool base 1210 . Such an arrangement facilitates rotatable attachment of spine assembly 1250 to tool base 1210 such that spine assembly 1250 is selectively rotatable relative to tool base 1210 about shaft axis SA ₁ . Specifically, in one arrangement, for example, the proximal end 1253 of the spine assembly 1250 includes an upper lug seat 1254 (Figs. 4, 5, 7, 8, and 10) and a lower lug seat (not shown). ), each of these lug seats is configured to receive a corresponding nozzle lug 1245 extending inwardly from each of the nozzle portions 1242, 1244. Such an arrangement facilitates rotation of spine assembly 1250 about shaft axis SA ₁ by rotating actuator wheel portion 1246 of nozzle assembly 1240 .

As can be seen in FIGS. 4 and 5 , spine assembly 1250 also includes an intermediate spine segment 1256 that has a diameter that is less than the diameter of proximal end 1253 of spine assembly 1250 . The intermediate spine segment 1256 of upper spine segment 1251 terminates in upper lug mounting features 1260 and the intermediate spine segment of lower spine segment 1252 terminates in lower lug mounting features 1270 . As can be seen most particularly in FIG. 6 , for example, the upper lug mounting feature 1260 has a lug slot 1262 formed therein adapted to support an upper mounting connector 1264 mounted therein. Similarly, the lower lug mounting feature 1270 has a lug slot 1272 formed therein adapted to support the lower mounting connector 1274 mounted therein. The upper mounting link 1264 includes therein a pivot bearing socket 1266 offset from the shaft axis SA ₁ . The pivot bearing socket 1266 is adapted to rotatably receive therein a pivot pin 1634 formed on a channel cap or anvil holder 1630 attached to the proximal end portion 1610 of the elongated channel 1602 . The lower mounting link 1274 includes a lower pivot pin 1276 adapted to be received within a pivot hole 1611 formed in the proximal end portion 1610 of the elongated channel 1602 . See Figure 6. Lower pivot pin 1276 and pivot hole 1611 are offset from shaft axis SA ₁ . Lower pivot pin 1276 is vertically aligned with pivot bearing socket 1266 to define an articulation axis AA ₁ about which surgical end effector 1500 is articulable relative to shaft axis SA ₁ . Although the articulation axis AA ₁ is transverse to the shaft _axis SA ₁ , it is laterally offset from the shaft axis SA ₁ and does not intersect the shaft axis SA ₁ .

Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 15 , in the illustrated example, anvil 1810 includes an anvil body 1812 that terminates in an anvil mounting portion 1820 . The anvil mounting portion 1820 is movably or pivotably supported on the elongated channel _{1602 for selective pivotal travel relative thereto about a fixed anvil pivot axis PA 1 (} FIG. 15 ) transverse to the shaft axis SA 1 . In the illustrated arrangement, the pivot member or anvil trunnion 1822 extends laterally out of each side of the anvil mounting portion 1820 to receive in the upstanding wall 1612 formed in the proximal end portion 1610 of the elongated channel 1602 Corresponding to trunnion bracket 1614. Anvil trunnions 1822 are pivotably retained in their corresponding trunnion brackets 1614 by channel caps or anvil retainers 1630 . Channel cap or anvil holder 1630 includes a pair of attachment lugs 1636 configured to retainably receive an upstanding wall 1612 formed at a proximal end portion 1610 of elongated channel 1602 corresponding lug grooves or recesses 1616 in the.

In the illustrated example, surgical end effector 1500 is capable of selective articulation about articulation axis AA1 by articulation system 1300 . In one form, articulation system 1300 includes a proximal articulation driver 1310 pivotally coupled to articulation link 1320 . As can be seen most particularly in FIG. 6 , an offset attachment lug 1314 is formed on the distal end 1312 of the proximal articulation driver 1310 . A pivot hole 1316 is formed in the offset attachment lug 1314 and is configured to pivotably receive therein a proximal connector pin 1326 formed on the proximal end 1325 of the articulation link 1320 . The distal end 1322 of the articulation link 1320 includes a pivot hole 1324 configured to pivotally receive therein a channel pin formed on the proximal end portion 1610 of the elongated channel 1602 1618. Accordingly, axial movement of proximal articulation driver 1310 will thereby impart articulation motion to elongated channel 1602, thereby causing surgical end effector 1500 to articulate relative to spine assembly 1250 about articulation axis _AA1 .

Movement of the anvil 1810 relative to the elongated channel 1602 is accomplished by axial movement of the proximal closure assembly 1900 and the distal closure assembly 2000 . Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 7 , in the illustrated arrangement, proximal closure assembly 1900 includes a proximal closure tube 1910 having a proximal closure tube portion 1920 and a distal portion 1930 . Distal portion 1930 has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of proximal closure tube portion 1920 . The proximal end 1922 of the proximal closure tube portion 1920 is rotatably supported in a closure shuttle 1940 that is slidably supported within the tool base 1210 such that the closure shuttle 1940 can be positioned relative to Its axial movement. In one form, closure shuttle 1940 includes a pair of proximally projecting hooks 1942 configured for attachment to attachment pins 516 that attach to the closure coupling of handle assembly 500 . Rod assembly 514. The proximal end 1922 of the proximal closure tube portion 1920 is coupled to the closure shuttle 1940 for rotation relative to the closure shuttle 1940 . For example, U-shaped connector 1944 is inserted into annular slot 1924 in proximal closure tube portion 1920 and retained within vertical slot 1946 in closure shuttle 1940 . Such an arrangement serves to attach the proximal closure assembly 1900 to the closure shuttle 1940 for axial travel with the closure shuttle 1940 while enabling the proximal closure assembly 1900 to move relative to the closure shuttle about shaft axis SA ₁ 1940 spins. A closure spring 1948 (Figs. 12-14) extends over the proximal closure tube portion 1920 to bias the closure shuttle 1940 in the proximal direction PD, which may be used to operably close the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000. Coupling to the handle assembly 500 causes the closure trigger 512 on the handle assembly 500 (FIG. 2) to pivot to the unactuated position.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6 , the distal portion 1930 of the proximal closure tube 1910 is attached to the distal closure assembly 2000 . In the illustrated arrangement, for example, distal closure assembly 2000 includes articulation connector 2010 coupled to distal closure tube segment 2030 . In the illustrated example, the diameter of the distal closure tube segment 2030 is greater than the diameter of the distal portion 1930 of the proximal closure tube 1910 . Articulation connector 2010 has a proximally extending end portion 2012 adapted to be received on a connecting flange 1934 formed on the distal end of distal portion 1930 . Articulation connector 2010 may be retained on connection flange 1934 by a suitable fastener arrangement (such as adhesive, welding, etc.). Articulation connector 2010 includes upper and lower tang 2014 and 2016 projecting distally from a distal end of articulation connector 2010 to be movably coupled to an end effector closure sleeve or distal closure segment 2030 . Distal closure segment 2030 includes an upper tang 2032 and a lower tang (not shown) protruding proximally from a proximal end thereof. The upper dual pivot connection 2060 includes a proximal pin 2061 and a distal pin 2062 that engage corresponding ones of the upper tangs 2014, 2032 of the articulation connector 2010 and the distal closure segment 2030, respectively. Kong 2015, 2034. Similarly, lower dual pivot link 2064 includes proximal pins 2065 and distal pins 2066 that engage articulation connector 2010 and lower tang 2016 of distal closure segment 2030 , respectively. Corresponding hole 2019. As will be discussed in further detail below, distal and proximal axial translation of the proximal closure assembly 1900 and the distal closure assembly 2000 will cause the anvil 1810 to close and open relative to the elongated channel 1602.

In at least one arrangement, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 also includes a firing system, generally designated 2100. In the illustrated example, firing system 2100 includes a firing member assembly 2110 that is supported for axial travel within spine assembly 1250 . In the illustrated embodiment, firing member assembly 2110 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 configured for attachment to a distal cutting portion or blade 2130 . Firing member assembly 2110 may also be referred to herein as a "second shaft" and/or "second shaft assembly." As seen in FIG. 5 , the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 may include a longitudinal slot 2124 in its distal end 2122 , which may be configured to receive the proximal end 2132 of the blade 2130 . The longitudinal slot 2124 and the proximal end 2132 of the blade 2130 may be sized and configured to permit relative movement therebetween and may include a sliding joint 2134. The sliding joint 2134 may allow the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 of the firing member assembly 2110 to move to articulate the end effector 1500 without moving, or at least substantially moving, the knife bar 2130 . Once the end effector 1500 has been properly oriented, the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 can be advanced distally until the proximal sidewall of the longitudinal slot 2124 contacts a portion of the knife bar 2130 to advance the knife bar 2130 and fire it into position. Surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700 within elongated channel 1602. In the illustrated arrangement, the proximal end 2127 of the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 has a firing shaft attachment lug 2128 formed thereon (FIG. 8) that is configured to be positioned to An attachment bracket (not shown) is located on the distal end of a longitudinally movable drive member (not shown) of the firing drive system 530 within the handle assembly 500 . This arrangement facilitates axial movement of the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 upon actuation of the firing drive system 530.

In addition to the above, the interchangeable tool assembly 1000 may include a clutch assembly 2200 that may be configured to selectively and releasably couple the proximal articulation driver 1310 to the firing system 2100 . In one form, clutch assembly 2200 includes a locking bushing or locking sleeve 2210 positioned about an intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 of firing system 2100, wherein locking sleeve 2210 is rotatable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position At, the locking sleeve 2210 couples the proximal articulation driver 1310 to the firing member assembly 2110, and in the disengaged position, the proximal articulation driver 1310 is not operably coupled to the firing member assembly 2110. When locking sleeve 2210 is in its engaged position, distal movement of firing member assembly 2110 may cause proximal articulation driver 1310 to move distally, and correspondingly, proximal movement of firing member assembly 2110 may cause proximal articulation. Driver 1310 moves proximally. When the locking sleeve 2210 is in its disengaged position, movement of the firing member assembly 2110 is not transmitted to the proximal articulation driver 1310 and, therefore, the firing member assembly 2110 may move independently of the proximal articulation driver 1310 . In various situations, the proximal articulation driver 1310 may be held in place by the articulation lock 1400 when the firing member assembly 2110 is not moving the proximal articulation driver 1310 in the proximal or distal direction.

In the illustrated arrangement, the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 of the firing member assembly 2110 is formed with two opposing flat sides 2121, 2123 with a drive notch 2126 formed therein. See Figure 8. As also seen in Figure 13, the locking sleeve 2210 includes a cylindrical or at least substantially cylindrical body including a longitudinal bore 2212 configured to receive an intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 therethrough. The locking sleeve 2210 may include diametrically opposed inwardly facing locking tabs 2214, 2216 that are engageably received in the drive recess in the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 when the locking sleeve 2210 is in one position. within the corresponding portion of the port 2126 and is not received within the drive recess 2126 when the locking sleeve 2210 is in another position, thereby allowing relative axial movement between the locking sleeve 2210 and the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120.

Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 12-14 , in the illustrated example, the locking sleeve 2210 further includes a locking member 2218 sized to movably receive a proximal portion of the proximal articulation driver 1310 . within the recess 1319 in the side end 1318. This arrangement allows the locking sleeve 2210 to rotate slightly into and out of engagement with the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 while remaining engaged with the notch 1319 in the proximal articulation driver 1310 . For example, when the locking sleeve 2210 is in its engaged position, the locking tabs 2214, 2216 are positioned within the drive notches 2126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 such that distal thrust and/or proximal pull forces can be released from the firing member assembly. 2110 to the locking sleeve 2210. Such axial push or pull motion is then transmitted from the locking sleeve 2210 to the proximal articulation driver 1310, thereby articulating the surgical end effector 1500. Indeed, when the locking sleeve 2210 is in its engaged (articulation) position, the firing member assembly 2110, the locking sleeve 2210, and the proximal articulation driver 1310 will move together. On the other hand, when the locking sleeve 2210 is in its disengaged position, the locking tabs 2214, 2216 are not received within the drive notch 2126 of the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120, and therefore, the distal thrust and/or the proximal pull may not be Will be transmitted from firing member assembly 2110 to locking sleeve 2210 (and proximal articulation driver 1310).

In the illustrated example, relative movement of the locking sleeve 2210 between its engaged and disengaged positions may be controlled by a clutch assembly 2200 that interfaces with the proximal closure tube 1910 of the proximal closure assembly 1900 . More specifically and with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9 , the clutch assembly 2200 also includes a clutch key 2240 configured to be slidably received within a key groove 2217 formed in the outer perimeter of the locking sleeve 2210 . This arrangement enables clutch key 2240 to move axially relative to locking sleeve 2210 . Referring to FIGS. 8-11 , clutch key 2240 includes an actuator lug 2242 that extends through a cam slot or cam opening 1926 in proximal closure tube portion 1920 . See Figure 9. A cam surface 2243 is also provided adjacent the actuator lug 2242 and configured to cammingly interact with the cam opening 1926 to cause the clutch key 2240 to respond to the axial direction of the proximal closure tube portion 1920 Movement and rotation.

Also in the illustrated example, clutch assembly 2200 further includes a switching barrel 2220 rotatably received on a proximal end portion of proximal closure tube portion 1920 . As can be seen in FIGS. 10-14 , the actuator lug 2242 extends through an axial slot segment 2222 in the switching barrel 2220 and is movably received within an arcuate slot segment 2224 in the switching barrel 2220 . A switching barrel torsion spring 2226 (Figs. 12-14) is mounted on the switching barrel 2220 and engages the nozzle portion 1244 to apply a torsional bias or rotation (arrow SR in Figs. 10 and 11) that is used to Rotate switching barrel 2220 until actuator lug 2242 reaches the end of arcuate slot segment 2224. See Figure 11 and Figure 12. When in this position, the switching barrel 2220 may provide a torsional bias to the clutch key 2240 that causes the locking sleeve 2210 to rotate to a position where it engages the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 . This position also corresponds to the unactuated configuration of proximal closure assembly 1900. In one arrangement, for example, when the proximal closure assembly 1900 is in the unactuated configuration (the anvil 1810 is in an open position spaced apart from the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700), the actuator lug 2242 is positioned proximally. The side closes the upper portion of the cam opening 1926 in the tube portion 1920 . When in this position, actuation of the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 will cause axial movement of the proximal articulation driver 1310. When the user articulates the surgical end effector 1500 to the desired orientation, the user may then actuate the proximal closure assembly 1900. Actuation of the proximal closure assembly 1900 will cause distal advancement of the proximal closure tube portion 1920 to ultimately impart closure motion to the anvil 1810 . This distal advancement of the proximal closure tube portion 1920 will cause the cam opening 1926 to cammingly interact with the cam surface 2243 on the actuator lug 2242, thereby causing the clutch key 2240 to rotate the locking sleeve 2210 in the actuation direction AD. . Such rotation of the locking sleeve 2210 will cause the locking tabs 2214, 2216 to disengage from the drive notch 2126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120. When in this configuration, firing drive system 530 may be actuated to actuate intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 without actuating proximal articulation driver 1310 . Further details regarding the operation of switching barrel 2220 and locking sleeve 2210 as well as alternative articulation and firing drive arrangements that may be used with the various interchangeable surgical tool assemblies described herein can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/ 803,086 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

Referring again to FIGS. 8-13 , the switching barrel 2220 may further include at least partial circumferential openings 2228 , 2230 defined therein that may receive circumferential lugs/mounts 1245 extending from the nozzle portions 1242 , 1244 and allow Relative rotation (rather than relative translation) between barrel 2220 and nozzle assembly 1240 is switched. Nozzle lug 1245 extends through a corresponding opening 1923 in proximal closure tube portion 1920 for seating in lug seat 1254 in spine assembly 1250 . See Figures 8 and 9. This arrangement enables the user to rotate the spine assembly 1250 about the shaft axis by rotating the nozzle assembly 1250 .

As also shown in Figures 7 and 12-14, the interchangeable tool assembly 1000 can include a slip ring assembly 1230 that can be configured to conduct power to and/or from the surgical end effector 1500. The surgical end effector 1500 conducts power and/or signals to and/or from the surgical end effector 1500 back to, for example, the microcontroller 560 in the handle assembly 500 (Figure 2) or robot system controller. Additional details regarding slip ring assembly 1230 and associated connectors can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 (both patent applications Each is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSORSYSTEM" (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263552, which U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263552 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety) This article). Also as described in further detail in the aforementioned patent applications, which have been incorporated herein by reference, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 may also include at least one sensor configured to detect the position of the switching barrel 2220.

Referring again to FIG. 2 , tool base 1210 includes at least one and preferably two tapered attachment portions 1212 formed thereon that are adapted to be received within corresponding dovetail-shaped slots 507 . A slot 507 is formed in a distal end portion of the handle frame 506 of the handle assembly 500 . Various interchangeable surgical tool assemblies employ a latch system 1220 for removably coupling the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 to the handle frame 506 of the handle assembly 500 . As seen in FIG. 7 , for example, in at least one form, the latch system 1220 includes a locking member or locking yoke 1222 movably coupled to the tool chassis 1210 . In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the locking yoke 1222 has a U-shape with two spaced apart downwardly extending legs 1223 . The legs 1223 each have pivot lugs (not shown) formed thereon that are adapted to be received in corresponding holes formed in the tool base 1210 . Such an arrangement facilitates pivotal attachment of locking yoke 1222 to tool base 1210 . The locking yoke 1222 may include two proximally projecting locking lugs 1224 configured to engage with corresponding locking detents in the distal end of the handle frame 506 of the handle assembly 500 or Groove 509 releasably engages. See Figure 2. In various forms, the locking yoke 1222 is biased in the proximal direction by a spring or biasing member 1225. Actuation of the locking yoke 1222 may be accomplished by a latch button 1226 slidably mounted on a latch actuator assembly 1221 mounted to the tool chassis 1210 . The latch button 1226 may be biased in a proximal direction relative to the locking yoke 1222 . The locking yoke 1222 can be moved to the unlocked position by biasing the latch button 1226 in the distal direction, which also causes the locking yoke 1222 to pivot out of engagement with the distal end of the handle frame 506 . When the locking yoke 1222 "remains engaged" with the distal end of the handle frame 506 , the locking lugs 1224 remain seated within corresponding locking detents or grooves 509 in the distal end of the handle frame 506 .

In the illustrated arrangement, locking yoke 1222 includes at least one and preferably two locking hooks 1227 adapted to contact corresponding locking lug portions 1943 formed on closure shuttle 1940 . When the closure shuttle 1940 is in the unactuated position, the locking yoke 1222 can pivot in the distal direction to unlock the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 from the handle assembly 500 . When in this position, the locking hook 1227 does not contact the locking lug portion 1943 on the closure shuttle 1940 . However, when the closure shuttle 1940 moves to the actuated position, the locking yoke 1222 is prevented from pivoting to the unlocked position. In other words, if the clinician attempts to pivot the locking yoke 1222 to the unlocked position, or if, for example, the locking yoke 1222 is inadvertently bumped or contacted in a manner that might otherwise cause it to pivot distally, the locking yoke 1222 The locking hook 1227 will contact the locking lugs 1943 on the closure shuttle 1940 and prevent the locking yoke 1222 from moving to the unlocked position.

Referring again to Figure 6, the toolbar 2130 may include a laminated beam structure including at least two beam layers. The beam layers may include, for example, stainless steel strips interconnected by welding or pinning, for example, at their proximal ends and/or other locations along their length. In alternative embodiments, the distal ends of the straps are not connected together, allowing the laminate or straps to expand relative to each other as the end effector articulates. Such an arrangement allows the toolbar 2130 to be flexible enough to accommodate the articulation of the end effector. Various laminated toolbar arrangements are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURESTROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As also seen in FIG. 6 , the firing shaft support member 2300 is used to provide lateral support for the knife bar 2130 as it flexes to accommodate articulation of the surgical end effector 1500 . Further details regarding the operation of the firing shaft support assembly 2300 and the optional bar support arrangement can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS" and "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING" ANDAXIALLY TRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR" U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,220, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As also seen in Figure 6, a firing member or knife member 2140 is attached to the distal end of the knife bar 2130. In one exemplary form, firing member 2140 includes a body portion 2142 that supports a knife or tissue cutting portion 2144. Body portion 2142 projects through an elongated slot 1604 in elongated channel 1602 and terminates in laterally extending foot members 2146 on each side of body portion 2142 . When firing member 2140 is driven distally through surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700, foot member 2146 straddles passage 1622 in elongated channel 1602 below surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700 (FIG. 48) Inside. In one arrangement, body portion 2142 includes two laterally projecting central tabs 2145 that can straddle a central passageway within surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700 . See Figure 6. Tissue cutting portion 2144 is disposed between distally projecting top nose portions 2143. As further seen in Figure 6, the firing member 2140 may also include two laterally extending top tab, pin or anvil engagement features 2147. When firing member 2140 is driven distally, the top portion of body portion 2142 extends through centrally located anvil slot 1814 and anvil engagement features 2147 straddle each side formed in anvil slot 1814 on the corresponding anvil protrusion 1816. In one arrangement, to facilitate assembly of the anvil 1810 and firing member 2140 arrangements, the top of the anvil body 1812 has an opening 1817 therein. When anvil 1810 is assembled to elongated channel 1602 and firing member 2140 is installed, opening 1817 is covered by anvil cap 1819 that is attached to the anvil by welding or other suitable fastening means. Subject 1812.

Returning to FIG. 6 , the firing member 2140 is configured to operably interface with the slide assembly 2150 operably supported within the body 1702 of the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700 . The sliding assembly 2150 is slidably displaceable within the surgical staple/fastener cartridge body 1702 from a proximal end starting position adjacent the proximal end 1704 of the cartridge body 1702 to an adjacent distal end of the cartridge body 1702 The end position of 1706. The cartridge body 1702 operably supports therein a plurality of staple drivers (not shown) aligned in rows on each side of a centrally located slot 1708. The centrally positioned slot 1708 enables the firing member 2140 to pass therethrough and cut tissue clamped between the anvil 1810 and the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700. The drivers are associated with corresponding staple/fastener dimples 1712 that penetrate the upper deck surface 1710 of the cartridge body 1702 . Each staple driver supports one or more surgical staples/fasteners or fasteners (not shown) thereon. Slide assembly 2150 includes a plurality of angled or wedge-shaped cams 2152 , where each cam 2152 corresponds to a specific line of fastener or driver located on one side of slot 1708 .

Attachment of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 to the handle assembly 500 will now be described with reference to FIG. 2 . To begin the coupling process, the clinician may position the tool base 1210 of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 over or near the distal end of the handle frame 506 such that the tapered attachment portion 1212 formed on the tool base 1210 is in contact with the handle. Dovetail slots 507 in the bottom frame 506 are aligned. The clinician may then move surgical tool assembly 1000 along mounting axis IA perpendicular to shaft axis SA ₁ so that tapered attachment portion 1212 is positioned with a corresponding dovetail-shaped receiving slot in the distal end of handle frame 506 507 "operably engaged". In doing so, the firing shaft attachment lug 2128 on the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 will also be seated in an attachment bracket (not shown) in the longitudinally movable drive member (not shown) within the handle assembly 500 , and the portion of the attachment pin 516 on the closure link 514 will seat in the corresponding hook 1942 in the closure shuttle 1940 . As used herein, the term "operably engaged" in the context of two components means that the two components are sufficiently engaged with each other such that the components can perform their intended actions, functions and/or upon application of an actuation motion thereto. or program.

During a typical surgical procedure, the clinician may introduce surgical end effector 1500 into the surgical site through a trocar or other opening in the patient's body to access target tissue. When doing so, the clinician typically aligns the surgical end effector 1500 axially along the shaft axis (the unarticulated state). For example, as the surgical end effector 1500 passes through the trocar port, the clinician may need to articulate the end effector 1500 to advantageously position it adjacent the target tissue. This is before the anvil is closed onto the target tissue, so the closure drive system 510 will remain unactuated. When in this position, actuation of the firing drive system 530 will cause articulation motion to be applied to the proximal articulation driver 1310 . When the end effector has reached the desired articulation position, the firing drive system 530 is deactivated and the articulation lock 1400 can maintain the surgical end effector 1500 in the articulation position. The clinician may then actuate closure drive system 510 to close anvil 1810 onto the target tissue. Such actuation of the closed drive system 510 may also cause the clutch assembly 2200 to decouple the proximal articulation drive from the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 . Therefore, when the target tissue has been captured in the surgical end effector 1500, the clinician may again actuate the firing drive system 530 to axially advance the firing member 2140 through the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700 to The clamped tissue is cut and the staples are fired into the cut tissue. Other closing and firing drive arrangements, actuator arrangements (hand-held, manual and automatic, or robotic) may be used to control the surgical tool assembly 1000 without departing from the spirit and scope of the various inventions disclosed herein. Axial movement of closure system components, articulation system components, and/or firing system components.

Returning now to FIG. 1 , the surgical system 10 shown in this figure includes four interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000 , 3000 , 5000 and 7000 , each of which can be operatively used with the same handle. The components 500 are used together to perform different surgical procedures.

Turning now to FIGS. 16-18 , an interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 includes a surgical end effector 3500 that includes a first jaw 3600 and a second jaw 3800 . In one arrangement, the first jaw includes an elongated channel 3602 configured to operatively support a surgical staple/fastener cartridge 3700 therein. Second jaw 3800 includes an anvil 3810 pivotally supported relative to elongated channel 3602. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 includes an articulation system 3300 that includes an articulation joint 3302 and an articulation lock 3400 that can be configured to enable the surgical end effector 3500 to be positioned relative to the shaft axis SA ₂ Releasably holds in position for desired joint movement. Details regarding the construction and operation of articulation lock 3400, as well as alternative lock configurations and operating details, can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Additional details regarding the Articulation Lock 3400 can also be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARYCONSTRAINT" filed on February 9, 2016, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Enter this article.

As seen in Figure 17, interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 includes a tool frame assembly 3200 that includes a tool base 3210 operatively supporting a nozzle assembly 3240 thereon. In one form, the nozzle assembly 3240 is comprised of the nozzle portions 3242, 3244 and an actuator wheel portion 3246 configured to be coupled to the assembled nozzle portion via snaps, lugs, screws, etc. 3242, 3244, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 includes a proximal closure assembly 3900 operatively coupled to a distal closure assembly 4000 for closing and/or opening the surgical end for performing Anvil 3810 of instrument 3500, as will be discussed in further detail below. Additionally, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 includes a "elastomeric" spine assembly 3250 that operatively supports the proximal closure assembly 3900 and couples to the surgical end effector 3500. An exemplary form of spine assembly 3250 is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,911 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING ANDFIRING SYSTEMS," the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. This article. For example, the spine assembly 3250 may include an elastic spine member having a proximal end portion 3253 and a distal end portion 3280 that is connected to the proximal portion of the elastic spine assembly 3250 by a tensile feature 3282 formed therebetween. The side end portions 3253 are separated. Additionally, stretch limiting insert 3284 remains supported between distal end portion 3280 and proximal end portion 3253. In various arrangements, elastic ridge assembly 3250 may be made from, for example, a suitable polymeric material, rubber, or the like, having a modulus of elasticity labeled ME ₁ for reference purposes. For reference purposes, the stretch limiting insert 3284 may have a modulus of elasticity designated ME ₂ . In each case, the stretch limiting insert 3284 also includes a pair of stretch limiters 3285 (only one is shown in Figure 17). For reference purposes, stretch limiter 3285 may have an elastic modulus _ME3 . In at least one arrangement, ME ₃ < ME ₂ < ME ₁ . Further details regarding at least one implementation of elastic spine assembly 3250 and stretch limiting insert 3284 can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,911.

In the illustrated arrangement, the distal end portion 3280 of the spine assembly 3250 has an opening 3281 therein to facilitate assembly. A ridge top cover 3283 may be attached thereto to cover the opening 3281 after the various components are assembled therein. In the assembled form, the proximal end portion 3253 of the spine assembly 3250 is rotatably supported in the tool base 3210. In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end of proximal end portion 3253 of spine assembly 3250 is attached to a spine bearing (not shown) configured to be supported within base 3210 . Such an arrangement facilitates rotatable attachment of spine assembly 3250 to tool base 3210 such that spine assembly 3250 is selectively rotatable relative to tool base 3210 about shaft axis _SA2 . Specifically, in one arrangement, for example, the proximal end portion 3253 of the spine assembly 3250 includes two diametrically opposed lug seats 3254 (only one of which is visible in Figure 17) that are each configured to Received are corresponding nozzle lugs (not shown) extending inwardly from each of the nozzle portions 3242, 3244. Such an arrangement facilitates rotation of spine assembly 3250 about shaft axis _SA2 by rotating actuator wheel portion 3246 of nozzle assembly 3240.

Referring now to Figure 18, the distal end portion 3280 of the resilient spine assembly 3250 is attached to a distal frame segment 3286 that operatively supports the articulation lock 3400 therein. The spine assembly 3250 is configured to: first, slidably support the firing member assembly 4110 therein; and second, slidably support the proximal closure tube 3910 extending about the spine assembly 3250. Spine assembly 3250 may also be configured to slidably support proximal articulation driver 3310. As seen in FIG. 18 , distal frame segment 3286 is pivotally coupled to elongated channel 3602 via end effector mounting assembly 3290 . For example, in one arrangement, the distal end of distal frame segment 3286 has a pivot pin 3288 formed thereon. The pivot pin 3288 is adapted to be pivotally received within a pivot hole 3292 formed in the pivot base portion 3291 of the end effector mounting assembly 3290. The end effector mounting assembly 3290 attaches to the proximal end 3610 of the elongated channel 3602 via a spring pin 3620 or other suitable member received within a mounting hole 3611 in the proximal end portion 3610. Pivot pin 3288 defines an articulation axis AA ₂ transverse to shaft axis SA ₂ . See Figure 18. Such an arrangement facilitates pivotal travel (ie, articulation) of the surgical end effector 3500 relative to the elastic spine assembly 3250 about the articulation axis _AA2 . Distal frame segment 3286 is also configured to support articulation lock 3400 therein. Various articulation lock arrangements can be used. At least one form of articulation lock 3400 is described in further detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTCOMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541, which is disclosed in its entirety. The contents are hereby incorporated by reference. Additional details about the articulation lock can also be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATIONMECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT" filed on February 9, 2016.

In the illustrated example, surgical end effector 3500 is capable of selective articulation about articulation axis AA ₂ by articulation system 3300 . In one form, articulation system 3300 includes a proximal articulation driver 3310 operably interfaced with articulation lock 3400. Articulation lock 3400 includes an articulation frame 3402 adapted to operatively engage a drive pin 3293 on pivot base portion 3291 of end effector mounting assembly 3290 . Additionally, cross-link 3294 may be coupled to drive pin 3293 and articulation frame 3402 to assist in articulation of surgical end effector 3500. As noted above, further details regarding the operation of articulation lock 3400 and articulation frame 3402 can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541). Further details regarding the end effector mounting assembly and cross-connect 3294 can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS" filed on February 9, 2016. The entire disclosure is hereby incorporated by reference. As further described herein and in other disclosures incorporated herein by reference, axial movement of proximal articulation driver 3310 will result in engagement/disengagement of articulation lock 3400 thereby imparting articulation motion to elongated channel 3602 , thereby causing the surgical end effector 3500 to articulate relative to the spine assembly 3250 about the articulation axis AA ₂ .

In the illustrated example, anvil 3810 includes an anvil body 3812 that terminates in an anvil mounting portion 3820. The anvil mounting portion 3820 is movably or pivotably supported on the elongated channel 3602 for selective pivotal travel relative thereto about a fixed anvil pivot axis PA ₂ (Fig. 18) transverse to the shaft axis SA ₂ . In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil trunnions 3822 extend laterally out of each side of the anvil mounting portion 3820 to receive corresponding trunnion pivots in the upstanding wall 3612 formed in the proximal end portion 3610 of the elongated channel 3602 In the shaft hole 3613. Movement of the anvil 3810 relative to the elongated channel 3602 is accomplished by axial movement of the proximal closure assembly 3900 and the distal closure assembly 4000. In the illustrated arrangement, proximal closure assembly 3900 includes a proximal closure tube 3910 having a proximal end 3912 and a distal end 3914. The proximal end 3912 is rotatably supported in a closure shuttle 3940 that is slidably supported within the tool base 3210 such that the closure shuttle 3940 is axially movable relative thereto. In one form, closure shuttle 3940 includes a pair of proximally projecting hooks 3942 configured for attachment to lateral attachment pins 516 that attach to handle assembly 500 Close linkage assembly 514. The proximal end 3912 is coupled to the closure shuttle 3940 for rotation relative thereto. For example, U-shaped connector 3944 is inserted into annular slot 3916 in proximal end 3912 and retained within vertical slot 3946 in closure shuttle 3940 . Such an arrangement serves to attach the proximal closure assembly 3900 to the closure shuttle 3940 to travel axially with the closure shuttle 3940 while enabling the proximal closure tube 3910 to move relative to the closure shuttle about shaft axis SA ₂ 3940 spins. As described above in connection with the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000, a closure spring (not shown) may extend over the proximal end 3912 of the proximal closure tube 3910 to bias the closure shuttle 3940 in the proximal direction PD. , this may be used to pivot the closure trigger 512 on the handle assembly 500 (FIG. 2) to the unactuated position when the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 is operably coupled to the handle assembly 500 in the manner described above.

As seen in Figure 18, the distal end 3914 of the proximal closure tube 3910 is attached to the distal closure assembly 4000. The distal end 3914 includes an upper tang 3917 and a lower tang 3918 configured to be movably coupled to an end effector closure sleeve or distal closure tube section 4030 . Distal closure segment 4030 includes an upper tang 4032 and a lower tang 4034 protruding proximally from a proximal end thereof. An upper dual pivot connection 4060 pivotally couples the upper tangs 3917 and 4032, and a lower dual pivot connection 4064 pivotally couples the lower tangs 3918 and 4034 together in the manner described above. Distal advancement of distal closure tube segment 4030 over anvil mounting portion 3820 will cause closure or pivotal travel of anvil 3810 toward elongated channel 3602 about fixed anvil pivot axis _PA2 . In the illustrated arrangement, the distal closure segment 4030 also includes forward jaw or anvil opening features 4040 configured to engage surfaces on the anvil mounting portion 3820 or The ramp portions cooperate to pivot the anvil 3810 from the closed position to the open position as the distal closure segment 4030 is moved proximally back to the starting position. Other embodiments may not employ the positive jaw opening feature, but may rely on a spring or other biasing arrangement to bias the anvil to the open position when the distal closure segment has been retracted to its most proximal starting position. Further details regarding the configuration and operation of the anvil opening features can be found, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,911 entitled "SURGICALSTAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS."

In the illustrated arrangement, interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 also includes a firing system, generally designated 4100. In various examples, firing system 4100 includes a firing member assembly 4110 that is supported for axial travel within spine assembly 3250. In the illustrated embodiment, firing member 4110 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 configured for attachment to a distal cutting portion or blade bar 4130. A support sleeve arrangement 4121 may be used to support the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 within the spine assembly 3250. Firing member assembly 4110 may also be referred to herein as a "second shaft" and/or "second shaft assembly." As seen in FIG. 18 , the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 may include a longitudinal slot 4124 in its distal end 4122 , which may be configured to receive the proximal end 4132 of the blade bar 4130 . The longitudinal slot 4124 and the proximal end 4132 of the blade 4130 may be sized and configured to permit relative movement therebetween and may include a sliding joint 4134. The sliding joint 4134 may allow movement of the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 of the firing member assembly 4110 to articulate the end effector 3500 without moving, or at least substantially moving, the cutter bar 4130, as described above. In the illustrated arrangement, the proximal end 4127 of the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 has a firing shaft attachment lug 4128 formed thereon that is configured to be positionable to an attachment bracket ( (not shown), the attachment bracket is located on the distal end of the longitudinally movable drive member (not shown) of the firing drive system 530 within the handle assembly 500, as described above. This arrangement facilitates axial movement of the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 upon actuation of the firing drive system 530. Other attachment configurations may also be employed to couple the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 to other firing drive arrangements (eg, manually actuated, robotic, etc.).

In addition to the above, the interchangeable tool assembly 3000 may include a clutch assembly 4200 that may be configured to selectively and releasably couple the proximal articulation driver 3310 to the firing member assembly 4110 in the manner described above. In one form, the clutch assembly 4200 includes a locking bushing or locking sleeve 4210 positioned about an intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 of the firing member assembly 4110, wherein the locking sleeve is rotatable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the disengaged position, the locking sleeve 4210 couples the proximal articulation driver 3310 to the firing member assembly 4110, and in the disengaged position, the proximal articulation driver 3310 is not operably coupled to the firing member assembly 4110. As discussed above, the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 of the firing member assembly 4110 is formed with a drive notch 4126. Locking sleeve 4210 includes a cylindrical or at least substantially cylindrical body including a longitudinal bore 4212 configured to receive an intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 therethrough. The locking sleeve 4210 may include diametrically opposed inwardly facing locking tabs 4214, 4216 that are engageably received in the drive recess in the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 when the locking sleeve 4210 is in one position. within the corresponding portion of the port 4126 and is not received within the drive recess 4126 when the locking sleeve 4210 is in another position, thereby allowing relative axial movement between the locking sleeve 4210 and the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 as further above discussed in detail. Locking sleeve 4210 also includes a locking member 4218 sized to be movably received within recess 3319 in the proximal end of proximal articulation driver 3310. When the locking sleeve 4210 is in its engaged position, the locking tabs 4214, 4216 are positioned within the drive notches 4126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 such that distal thrust and/or proximal pull forces can be transmitted from the firing member assembly 4110 to Locking sleeve 4210. Such axial push or pull motion is then transmitted from the locking sleeve 4210 to the proximal articulation driver 3310, thereby articulating the surgical end effector 3500.

As described above, in the illustrated example, relative movement of the locking sleeve 4210 between its engaged and disengaged positions may be controlled by the clutch assembly 4200 that interfaces with the proximal closure tube 3910 of the proximal closure assembly 3900. Clutch assembly 4200 also includes a clutch key 4240 configured to be slidably received within a key groove (similar to key groove 2217 shown in FIG. 8 ) formed in the outer perimeter of locking sleeve 4210 . This arrangement enables clutch key 4240 to move axially relative to locking sleeve 4210. Operation of clutch assembly 4200 may be the same as operation of clutch assembly 2200, which is described in further detail above and will not be repeated for the sake of brevity. Further details, alternative arrangements and drive configurations that may be employed are disclosed in Other arrangements that may be employed are disclosed in the U.S. Patent entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLYACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" Application Serial No. 15/385,911, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541), and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196, as well as other disclosures incorporated herein.

The interchangeable tool assembly 3000 may include a slip ring assembly 3230 that may be configured to conduct power to and/or from the surgical end effector 3500 and/or to Signals are communicated to and/or from the surgical end effector 3500 back to, for example, the microcontroller 560 or robotic system controller in the handle assembly 500, as described above. Additional details regarding slip ring assembly 3230 and associated connectors can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 (both patent applications Each is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM" (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263552, which U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263552 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety). into this article).

For example, the illustrated interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 also employs a latch system 3220 for removably coupling the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 to the handle frame 506 of the handle assembly 500. The latching system 3220 may be the same as the latching system 1220 described in detail above. The toolbar 4130 may include a laminated beam structure including at least two beam layers. The beam layers may include, for example, stainless steel strips interconnected by welding or pinning, for example, at their proximal ends and/or other locations along their length. In alternative embodiments, the distal ends of the straps are not connected together, allowing the laminate or straps to expand relative to each other as the end effector articulates. Such an arrangement allows the toolbar 4130 to be flexible enough to accommodate the articulation of the end effector. Various laminated toolbar arrangements are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURESTROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Also as can be seen in Figure 18, the firing shaft support member 4300 is used to provide lateral support for the knife bar 4130 as it flexes to accommodate articulation of the surgical end effector 3500. Further details regarding the operation of the firing shaft support assembly 4300 and the optional bar support arrangement can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS" and "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING" ANDAXIALLY TRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR" U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,220, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As also seen in Figure 18, a firing member or knife member 4140 is attached to the distal end of the knife bar 4130. The firing member 4140 is configured to operatively interface with a sliding assembly 4150 that is operatively supported within the body 3702 of the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 3700. Slide assembly 4150 is slidably displaceable within surgical staple/fastener cartridge body 3702 from a proximal end starting position adjacent proximal end 3704 of cartridge body 3702 to a distal end adjacent to cartridge body 3702 The end position of 3706. The cartridge body 3702 operably supports therein a plurality of staple drivers (not shown) aligned in rows on each side of a centrally located slot 3708. The centrally positioned slot 3708 allows the firing member 4140 to pass therethrough and cut tissue sandwiched between the anvil 3810 and the staple cartridge 3700. The drivers are associated with corresponding staple dimples 3712 that pass through the deck surface 3710 of the cartridge body 3702. Each staple driver supports one or more surgical staples/fasteners or fasteners (not shown) thereon. Slide assembly 4150 includes a plurality of angled or wedge-shaped cams 4152 , where each cam 4152 corresponds to a specific line of fastener or driver located on one side of slot 3708 .

In one exemplary form, firing member 4140 includes a body portion 4142 that supports a knife or tissue cutting portion 4144. See Figure 49. Body portion 4142 projects through an elongated slot 3604 in elongated channel 3602 and terminates in laterally extending foot members 4146 on each side of body portion 4142. When the firing member 4140 is driven distally through the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 3700, the foot member 4146 straddles the elongated channel 3602 and is positioned within the passageway 3622 below the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 3700. Tissue cutting portion 4144 is disposed between distally projecting top nose portions 4143. As further seen in Figure 18, the firing member 4140 may also include two laterally extending top tab, pin or anvil engagement features 4147. When the firing member 4140 is driven distally, the top portion of the body portion 4142 extends through the centrally located anvil slot 3814 and the anvil engagement features 4147 straddle each side of the anvil slot 3814 on the corresponding convex portion 3816. Further details regarding the firing member 4140, the slide assembly 4150, and examples of their various alternatives and their operation are discussed in further detail below and can also be found in the U.S. publication entitled "SURGICALSTAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" Patent application serial number 15/385,911. Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 may be attached to handle assembly 500 in the manner described above with respect to interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 .

Returning again to Figure 1, as mentioned above, the surgical system 10 shown in this figure includes four interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, and 7000, each of which can effectively Use with the same handle assembly 500 to perform different surgical procedures. Turning now to FIGS. 19-21 , an interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 includes a surgical end effector 5500 that includes a first jaw 5600 and a second jaw 5800 . In one arrangement, the first jaw includes an elongated channel 5602 configured to operatively support a surgical staple/fastener cartridge 5700 therein. Second jaw 5800 includes an anvil 5810 movably supported relative to elongated channel 5602. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 includes an articulation system 5300 that includes an articulation joint 5302 and an articulation lock 5400 that can be configured to enable the surgical end effector 5500 to be positioned relative to the shaft axis SA ₃ Releasably holds in position for desired joint movement. Details regarding the construction and operation of articulation lock 5400, as well as alternative lock configurations and operating details, may be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,894 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCK OUT," the entire disclosure of which is hereby disclosed. Incorporated herein by reference. Alternative articulation locking arrangements may also be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING ANARTICULATION LOCK", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541 and filed on February 9, 2016 U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATIONMECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT" and the entire disclosure of each such reference is hereby incorporated by reference.

As seen in Figure 20, interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 includes a tool frame assembly 5200 that includes a tool base 5210 operatively supporting a nozzle assembly 5240 thereon. In one form, the nozzle assembly 5240 is composed of the nozzle portions 5242, 5244 and an actuator wheel portion 5246 configured to be coupled to the assembled nozzle portion 5242 via snaps, lugs, screws, etc. , 5244, interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 includes a proximal closure assembly 5900 operably coupled to a distal closure assembly 6000 for closing and/or opening a surgical end effector Anvil 5810 of 5500, as will be discussed in further detail below. Additionally, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 includes a spine assembly 5250 operatively supporting the proximal closure assembly 5900 and coupled to the surgical end effector 5500 . In the illustrated arrangement, spine assembly 5250 includes a distal end portion 5280 having an opening 5281 therein to facilitate assembly. A ridge top cover 5283 may be attached thereto to cover the opening 5281 after the various components are assembled therein. In the assembled form, the proximal end portion 5253 of the spine assembly 5250 is rotatably supported in the tool base 5210. In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end of proximal end portion 5253 of spine assembly 5250 is attached to a spine bearing (not shown) configured to be supported within base 5210 . Such an arrangement facilitates rotatable attachment of spine assembly 5250 to tool base 5210 such that spine assembly 5250 is selectively rotatable relative to tool base 5210 about shaft axis _SA3 . Specifically, in one arrangement, for example, the proximal end portion 5253 of the spine assembly 5250 includes two diametrically opposed lug seats 5254 (only one of which is visible in Figure 20) that are each configured to enable Received are corresponding nozzle lugs (not shown) extending inwardly from each of the nozzle portions 5242, 5244. Such an arrangement facilitates rotation of spine assembly 5250 about shaft axis _SA3 by rotating actuator wheel portion 5246 of nozzle assembly 5240.

Referring now to Figure 21, the distal end portion 5280 of the spine assembly 5250 is attached to a distal frame segment 5286 that operably supports the articulation lock 5400 therein. The spine assembly 5250 is configured to: first, slidably support the firing member assembly 6110 therein; and second, slidably support the proximal closure tube 5910 extending about the spine assembly 5250. Spine assembly 5250 may also be configured to slidably support first articulation driver 5310 and second articulation driver 5320. As seen in Figure 21, distal frame segment 5286 is pivotally coupled to proximal end 5610 of elongated channel 5602. For example, in one arrangement, the distal end of distal frame segment 5286 has a pivot pin 5288 formed thereon. The pivot pin 5288 is adapted to be pivotally received within a pivot hole 5611 formed in the proximal end portion 5610 of the elongated channel 5602. Pivot pin 5288 defines an articulation axis AA ₃ transverse to shaft axis SA ₃ . See Figure 21. Such an arrangement facilitates pivotal travel (ie, articulation) of the surgical end effector 5500 relative to the spine assembly 5250 about the articulation axis AA ₃ . Distal frame segment 5286 is also configured to support articulation lock 5400 therein.

In the illustrated arrangement, the distal end 5314 of the first articulation driver 5310 is formed with a collar 5316 adapted to receive therein a first articulation formed on the proximal end portion 5610 of the elongated channel 5602 Movement pin 5618. Similarly, the distal end 5324 of the second articulation driver 5320 has a collar 5326 adapted to receive therein a second articulation pin 5619 formed on the proximal end portion 5610 of the elongated channel 5602. In one arrangement, for example, the first articulation driver 5310 further includes proximal rack teeth 5315 in meshing engagement with an idler gear 5330 rotatably supported in the spine assembly 5250. Similarly, second articulation driver 5320 also includes proximal rack teeth 5325 in meshing engagement with idler gear 5330 . Thus, in such an arrangement, movement of the first articulation driver 5310 in the distal direction DD will result in movement of the second articulation driver 5320 in the proximal direction PD. Movement of the first articulation driver 5310 in the proximal direction PD will cause movement of the second articulation driver 5320 in the distal direction DD. Accordingly, such movement of the first articulation driver 5310 and the second articulation driver 5320 will simultaneously provide push and pull motions to the surgical end effector 5500 to articulate the surgical end effector about the articulation axis AA ₃ .

In the illustrated example, anvil 5810 includes an anvil body 5812 that terminates in an anvil mounting portion 5820. Anvil mounting portion 5820 is movably supported on elongated channel 5602 for selective pivoting and vertical travel relative thereto. In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil trunnions 5822 extend laterally out of each side of the anvil mounting portion 5820 to receive corresponding "open" openings in the upright walls 5612 formed in the proximal end portion 5610 of the elongated channel 5602 "Vertical bracket 5613. Movement of the anvil 5810 relative to the elongated channel 5602 is accomplished by axial movement of the proximal closure assembly 5900 and the distal closure assembly 6000. In the illustrated arrangement, proximal closure assembly 5900 includes a proximal closure tube 5910 having a proximal end 5912 and a distal end 5914. The proximal end 5912 is rotatably supported in a closure shuttle 5940 that is slidably supported within the tool base 5210 such that the closure shuttle 5940 is axially movable relative thereto. In one form, closure shuttle 5940 includes a pair of proximally projecting hooks 5942 configured for attachment to lateral attachment pins 516 that attach to handle assembly 500 Close linkage assembly 514. The proximal end 5912 of the proximal closure tube 5910 is coupled to the closure shuttle 5940 for rotation relative to the closure shuttle 5940 . For example, U-shaped connector 5944 is inserted into annular slot 5916 in proximal end 5912 and retained within vertical slot 5946 in closure shuttle 5940 . Such an arrangement serves to attach the proximal closure assembly 5900 to the closure shuttle 5940 to travel axially with the closure shuttle 5940 while enabling the proximal closure tube 5910 to move relative to the closure shuttle about shaft axis SA ₃ 5940 spins. As described above in connection with the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000, a closure spring (not shown) may extend over the proximal end 5912 of the proximal closure tube 5910 to bias the closure shuttle 5940 in the proximal direction PD , this may be used to pivot the closure trigger 512 on the handle assembly 500 (Fig. 2) to the unactuated position when the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 is operably coupled to the handle assembly 500 in the manner described above.

As seen in Figure 21, the distal end 5914 of the proximal closure tube 5910 is attached to the distal closure assembly 6000. The distal end 5914 includes an upper tang 5917 and a lower tang 7918 configured to be movably coupled to an end effector closure sleeve or distal closure tube section 6030 . Distal closure segment 6030 includes an upper tang 6032 and a lower tang 6034 protruding proximally from a proximal end thereof. An upper dual pivot connection 6060 pivotally couples the upper tangs 5917 and 6032, and a lower dual pivot connection 6064 pivotally couples the lower tangs 5918 and 6034 together in the manner described above. The distal closure tube section 6030 includes an inner cam surface 6036 configured to cammingly engage the anvil cam surface 5820 on the anvil mounting portion 5820. Distal advancement of the distal closure tube segment 6030 over the anvil mounting portion 5820 will cause the anvil 5810 to close or pivot toward the elongated channel 5602. In the illustrated arrangement, an upright anvil tab 5827 is formed on the anvil mounting portion 5820 and is configured to be contactable by two forward jaw opening tabs 6038 extending inwardly within the distal closure tube section 6030 . Each forward jaw opening tab 6038 is configured to engage a corresponding one of the anvil tabs 5827 to pivot the anvil 5810 upon axial movement of the distal closure tube segment 6030 in the proximal direction PD. Open location.

In the illustrated arrangement, interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 also includes a firing system, generally designated 6100. In various examples, firing system 6100 includes a firing member assembly 6110 that is supported for axial travel within spine assembly 5250. In the illustrated embodiment, firing member assembly 6110 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 configured for attachment to a distal cutting portion or blade 6130. Firing member assembly 6110 may also be referred to herein as a "second shaft" and/or "second shaft assembly." As seen in Figure 21, the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 can include a longitudinal slot 6124 in its distal end 6122, which can be configured to receive the proximal end 6132 of the blade bar 6130. The longitudinal slot 6124 and the proximal end 6132 of the blade 6130 may be sized and configured to permit relative movement therebetween and may include a sliding joint 6134. The sliding joint 6134 may allow the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 of the firing member assembly 6110 to move to articulate the end effector 5500 without moving, or at least substantially moving, the knife bar 6130, as described above. In the illustrated arrangement, the proximal end 6127 of the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 has a firing shaft attachment lug 6128 formed thereon that is configured to be positionable to an attachment bracket ( (not shown), the attachment bracket is located on the distal end of the longitudinally movable drive member (not shown) of the firing drive system 530 within the handle assembly 500, as described above. This arrangement facilitates axial movement of the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 upon actuation of the firing drive system 530. Other attachment configurations may also be employed to couple the intermediate firing shaft portion to other firing drive arrangements (eg, manually actuated, robotic, etc.).

In addition to the above, the interchangeable tool assembly 5000 may include a clutch assembly 6200 in the manner described above, which clutch assembly may be configured to selectively and releasably couple the first articulation driver 5310 to the firing member assembly 6110. In one form, the clutch assembly 6200 includes a locking bushing or locking sleeve 6210 positioned about an intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 of the firing member assembly 6110, wherein the locking sleeve 6210 is rotatable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the disengaged position, the locking sleeve 6210 couples the first articulation driver 5310 to the firing member assembly 6110, and in the disengaged position, the first articulation driver 5310 is not operably coupled to the firing member assembly 6110. As discussed above, the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 of the firing member assembly 6110 is formed with a drive notch 6126. Locking sleeve 6210 includes a cylindrical or at least substantially cylindrical body including a longitudinal bore configured to receive intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 therethrough. The locking sleeve 6210 may include diametrically opposed inwardly facing locking tabs 6214, 6216 that are engageably received in the drive recess in the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 when the locking sleeve 6210 is in one position. within the corresponding portion of the port 6126 and is not received within the drive recess 6126 when the locking sleeve 6210 is in another position, thereby allowing relative axial movement between the locking sleeve 6210 and the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 as further above discussed in detail. The locking sleeve 6210 also includes a locking member 6218 sized to be movably received within a recess 5319 in the proximal end of the first articulation driver 5310 . When the locking sleeve 6210 is in its engaged position, the locking tabs 6214, 6216 are positioned within the drive notches 6126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 such that distal thrust and/or proximal pulling forces can be transferred from the firing member assembly 6110 to Locking sleeve 6210. Such axial push or pull motion is then transferred from the locking sleeve 6210 to the proximal articulation driver 5310. Axial movement of the first articulation driver 5310 causes axial movement of the second articulation driver 5320 in the opposite direction, thereby causing articulation of the surgical end effector 5500 .

As described above, in the illustrated example, relative movement of the locking sleeve 6210 between its engaged and disengaged positions may be controlled by the clutch assembly 6200 that interfaces with the proximal closure tube 5910 of the proximal closure assembly 5900. Clutch assembly 6200 also includes a clutch key 6240 configured to be slidably received within a key groove (similar to key groove 2217 shown in FIG. 8 ) formed in the outer perimeter of locking sleeve 6210 . This arrangement enables clutch key 6240 to move axially relative to locking sleeve 6210. Operation of clutch assembly 6200 may be the same as operation of clutch assembly 2200, which is described in further detail above and will not be repeated for the sake of brevity. Further details, alternative arrangements and drive configurations that may be employed are disclosed in Other arrangements that may be employed are disclosed in the U.S. Patent entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLYACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" Application Serial No. 15/385,911, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541), and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196, as well as other disclosures incorporated herein.

The interchangeable tool assembly 5000 may include a slip ring assembly 5230 that may be configured to conduct power to and/or from the surgical end effector 5500 and/or to Signals are communicated to and/or from the surgical end effector 5500 back to, for example, the microcontroller 560 or robotic system controller in the handle assembly 500, as described above. Additional details regarding slip ring assembly 5230 and associated connectors can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 (both patent applications Each is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM" (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263552, which U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263552 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety). into this article).

For example, the illustrated interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 also employs a latch system 5220 for removably coupling the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 to the handle frame 506 of the handle assembly 500 . The latching system 5220 may be the same as the latching system 1220 described in detail above. The toolbar 6130 may include a laminated beam structure including at least two beam layers. The beam layers may include, for example, stainless steel strips interconnected by welding or pinning, for example, at their proximal ends and/or other locations along their length. In alternative embodiments, the distal ends of the straps are not connected together, allowing the laminate or straps to expand relative to each other as the end effector articulates. Such an arrangement allows the toolbar 6130 to be flexible enough to accommodate the articulation of the end effector. Various laminated toolbar arrangements are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURESTROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As also seen in Figure 21, the firing shaft support member 6300 is used to provide lateral support for the knife bar 6130 as it flexes to accommodate articulation of the surgical end effector 5500. Further details regarding the operation of the firing shaft support assembly 6300 and the optional bar support arrangement may be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS" and "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING ANDAXIALLY" TRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR" U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,220, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As can also be seen in Figures 21 and 50, a firing member or knife member 6140 is attached to the distal end of the knife bar 6130. The firing member 6140 is configured to operably interface with the slide assembly 6150 operably supported within the body 5702 of the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 5700. The sliding assembly 6150 is slidably displaceable within the surgical staple cartridge body/fastener cartridge body 5702 from a proximal end starting position adjacent the proximal end 5704 of the cartridge body 5702 to a distal end adjacent the cartridge body 5702 The end position of 5706. The cartridge body 5702 operably supports therein a plurality of staple drivers (not shown) aligned in rows on each side of a centrally located slot 5708. The centrally positioned slot 5708 allows the firing member 6140 to pass therethrough and cut tissue sandwiched between the anvil 5810 and the staple cartridge 5700. The drivers are associated with corresponding staple dimples that pass through the upper platform surface of the cartridge body 5702. Each staple driver supports one or more surgical staples/fasteners or fasteners (not shown) thereon. The slide assembly includes a plurality of angled or wedge-shaped cams 6152, where each cam corresponds to a specific line of fastener or driver located on one side of slot 5708.

In one exemplary form, firing member 6140 includes a body portion 6142 that supports a knife or tissue cutting portion 6144. See Figure 50. Body portion 6142 projects through an elongated slot 5604 in elongated channel 5602 and terminates in laterally extending foot members 6146 on each side of body portion 6142. When the firing member 6140 is driven distally through the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 5700, the foot member 6146 straddles the elongated channel 5602 and is positioned within the passageway 5622 below the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 5700. Tissue cutting portion 6144 is disposed between distally projecting top nose portions 6143. As further seen in Figures 21 and 50, the firing member 6140 may also include two laterally extending top tab, pin or anvil engagement features 6147. When the firing member 6140 is driven distally, the top portion of the body portion 6142 extends through the centrally located anvil slot 5814 and the anvil engagement features 6147 straddle each side formed in the anvil slot 5814 on the corresponding convex portion 5816. Further details regarding the firing member 6140, the slide assembly 6150, and examples of their various alternatives, as well as their operation, are discussed in further detail below and can also be found in the U.S. publication entitled "SURGICALSTAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" Patent application serial number 15/385,911. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 may be operably coupled to the handle assembly 500 in the manner described above with respect to the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000.

Returning again to Figure 1, as mentioned above, the surgical system 10 shown in this figure includes four interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, and 7000, each of which can effectively Use with the same handle assembly 500 to perform different surgical procedures. Turning now to FIGS. 22-24 , an interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 includes a surgical end effector 7500 including a first jaw 7600 and a second jaw 7800 . In one arrangement, the first jaw includes an elongated channel 7602 configured to operatively support a surgical staple/fastener cartridge 7700 therein. Second jaw 7800 includes an anvil 7810 movably supported relative to elongated channel 7602. Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 includes an articulation system 7300 that includes an articulation joint 7302 and an articulation lock 7400 that can be configured to enable surgical end effector 7500 relative to shaft axis SA ₄ Releasably holds in position for desired joint movement. Details regarding the construction and operation of the articulation lock 7400, as well as alternative lock configurations and operating details, can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISINGAN ARTICULATION LOCK", now U.S. Patent Application Published 2014/0263541, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Additional details regarding the articulation lock 7400 and/or alternative articulation lock arrangements may be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT" filed on February 9, 2016 , the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

As seen in Figure 24, interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 includes a tool frame assembly 7200 that includes a tool base 7210 operatively supporting a nozzle assembly 7240 thereon. In one form, the nozzle assembly 7240 is comprised of the nozzle portions 7242, 7244 and an actuator wheel portion 7246 configured to be coupled to the assembled nozzle portion 7242 via snaps, lugs, screws, etc. , 7244, interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 includes a proximal closure assembly 7900 operably coupled to a distal closure assembly 8000 for closing and/or opening a surgical end effector 7500 anvil 7810, as will be discussed in further detail below. Additionally, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 includes a spine assembly 7250 that operably supports the proximal closure assembly 7900 and is coupled to the surgical end effector 3500 . In the illustrated arrangement, spine assembly 7250 includes a distal end portion 7280 having an opening 7281 therein to facilitate assembly. A ridge top cover 7283 may be attached thereto to cover the opening 7281 after the various components are assembled therein. In the assembled form, the proximal end portion 7253 of the spine assembly 7250 is rotatably supported in the tool base 7210. In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end of the proximal end portion 7253 of the spine assembly 7250 is attached to a spine bearing (not shown) configured to be supported within the base 7210 . Such an arrangement facilitates rotatable attachment of spine assembly 7250 to tool base 7210 such that spine assembly 7250 is selectively rotatable relative to tool base 7210 about shaft axis SA ₄ . Specifically, in one arrangement, for example, the proximal end portion 7253 of the spine assembly 7250 includes two diametrically opposed lug seats 7254 (only one of which is visible in Figure 23) that are each configured to Received are corresponding nozzle lugs (not shown) extending inwardly from each of the nozzle portions 7242, 7244. Such an arrangement facilitates rotation of spine assembly 7250 about shaft axis _SA4 by rotating actuator wheel portion 7246 of nozzle assembly 7240.

Referring now to Figure 24, the distal end portion 7280 of the spine assembly 7250 is attached to a distal frame segment 7286 that operably supports the articulation lock 7400 therein. The spine assembly 7250 is configured to: first, slidably support the firing member assembly 8110 therein; and second, slidably support the proximal closure tube 7910 extending about the spine assembly 7250. Spine assembly 7250 may also be configured to slidably support proximal articulation driver 7310. As seen in Figure 24, distal frame segment 7286 is pivotally coupled to elongated channel 7602 via end effector mounting assembly 7290. For example, in one arrangement, the distal end of distal frame segment 7286 has a pivot pin 7288 formed thereon. The pivot pin 7288 is adapted to be pivotally received within a pivot hole 7292 formed in the pivot base portion 7291 of the end effector mounting assembly 7290. End effector mounting assembly 7290 attaches to proximal end portion 7610 of elongated channel 7602 via spring pin 7620 or other suitable member received within mounting hole 7611 in proximal end portion 7610. Pivot pin 7288 defines an articulation axis AA ₄ transverse to shaft axis SA ₄ . See Figure 24. Such an arrangement facilitates pivotal travel (ie, articulation) of the surgical end effector 7500 relative to the spine assembly 7250 about the articulation axis AA ₄ . Distal frame segment 7286 is also configured to support articulation lock 7400 therein. Various articulation lock arrangements can be used. At least one form of articulation lock 7400 is described in further detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTCOMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK", now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541, which is disclosed in its entirety. The contents are hereby incorporated by reference. Additional details about the articulation lock can also be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATIONMECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT" filed on February 9, 2016.

In the illustrated example, surgical end effector 7500 is capable of selective articulation about articulation axis AA ₄ via articulation system 7300 . In one form, articulation system 7300 includes a proximal articulation driver 7310 operably interfaced with articulation lock 7400. Articulation lock 7400 includes an articulation frame 7402 adapted to operatively engage a drive pin 7293 on a pivot base portion 7291 of an end effector mounting assembly 7290 . Additionally, cross-link 7294 may be coupled to drive pin 7293 and articulation frame 7402 to assist in articulation of surgical end effector 7500. As noted above, further details regarding the operation of articulation lock 7400 and articulation frame 7402 can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541). Further details regarding the end effector mounting assembly and cross-connect 7294 can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS" filed on February 9, 2016. The entire disclosure is hereby incorporated by reference. As further described herein and in other disclosures incorporated herein by reference, axial movement of proximal articulation driver 7310 will result in engagement/disengagement of articulation lock 7400 thereby imparting articulation motion to elongated channel 7602 , thereby causing the surgical end effector 7500 to articulate relative to the spine assembly 7250 about the articulation axis AA ₄ .

In the illustrated example, anvil 7810 includes an anvil body 7812 that terminates in an anvil mounting portion 7820. Anvil mounting portion 7820 is movably supported on elongated channel 7602 for selective pivoting and axial travel relative thereto. In the illustrated arrangement, anvil trunnions 7822 extend laterally out of each side of anvil mounting portion 7820 to receive corresponding "kidney-shaped" upright walls 7612 formed in proximal end portion 7610 of elongated channel 7602 "Opening 7613. Movement of the anvil 7810 relative to the elongated channel 7602 is accomplished by axial movement of the proximal closure assembly 7900 and the distal closure assembly 8000. In the illustrated arrangement, proximal closure assembly 7900 includes a proximal closure tube 7910 having a proximal end 7912 and a distal end 7914. The proximal end 7912 is rotatably supported in a closure shuttle 7940, which is slidably supported within the tool base 7210 such that the closure shuttle 7940 is axially movable relative thereto. In one form, closure shuttle 7940 includes a pair of proximally projecting hooks 7942 configured for attachment to lateral attachment pins 516 that attach to the closure of handle assembly 500 Linkage assembly 514. The proximal end 7912 of the proximal closure tube 7910 is coupled to the closure shuttle 7940 for rotation relative to the closure shuttle 7940 . For example, the U-shaped connector 7944 is inserted into the annular slot 7916 in the proximal end 7912 of the proximal closure tube 7910 so that it remains within the vertical slot 7946 in the closure shuttle 7940. Such an arrangement serves to attach the proximal closure assembly 7900 to the closure shuttle 7940 to travel axially with the closure shuttle 7940 while enabling the proximal closure tube 7910 to move relative to the closure shuttle about shaft axis SA ₄ 7940 spins. As described above in connection with the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000, a closure spring (not shown) may extend over the proximal end 7912 of the proximal closure tube 7910 to bias the closure shuttle 7940 in the proximal direction PD , this may be used to pivot the closure trigger 512 on the handle assembly 500 (Fig. 2) to the unactuated position when the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 is operably coupled to the handle assembly 500 in the manner described above.

As seen in Figure 24, the distal end 7914 of the proximal closure tube 3910 is attached to the distal closure assembly 8000. The distal end 7914 includes an upper tang 7917 and a lower tang 7918 configured to be movably coupled to an end effector closure sleeve or distal closure tube section 8030 . Distal closure tube section 8030 includes an upper tang 8032 and a lower tang 8034 protruding proximally from a proximal end thereof. An upper dual pivot connection 8060 pivotally couples upper tangs 7917 and 8032, and a lower dual pivot connection 8064 pivotally couples lower tangs 7918 and 8034 together in the manner described above. Distal advancement of the distal closure tube segment 8030 over the anvil mounting portion 7820 will cause the anvil 7810 to close or pivot toward the elongated channel 7602. In the illustrated arrangement, an upstanding anvil tab 7824 is formed on the anvil mounting portion 7820 and extends into the horseshoe opening 8038 . Opening 8038 defines an opening tab 8039 configured to operably interface with anvil tab 7824 as the distal closure tube is retracted in the distal direction. Such interaction between the opening tab 8039 and the anvil tab 7824 imparts an opening motion to the anvil 7810, causing the anvil 7810 to move to the open position.

In the illustrated arrangement, interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 also includes a firing system, generally designated 8100. In various examples, firing system 8100 includes a firing member assembly 8110 that is supported for axial travel within spine assembly 7250. In the illustrated embodiment, firing member assembly 8110 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 configured for attachment to a distal cutting portion or blade 8130 . Firing member assembly 8110 may also be referred to herein as a "second shaft" and/or "second shaft assembly." As seen in Figure 24, the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 can include a longitudinal slot 8124 in its distal end 8122, which can be configured to receive the proximal end 8132 of the blade 8130. The longitudinal slot 8124 and the proximal end 8132 of the blade 8130 may be sized and configured to permit relative movement therebetween and may include a sliding joint 8134. The sliding joint 8134 may allow the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 of the firing member assembly 8110 to move to articulate the end effector 7500 without moving, or at least substantially moving, the knife bar 8130, as described above. In the illustrated arrangement, the proximal end 8127 of the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 has a firing shaft attachment lug 8128 formed thereon that is configured to be positionable to an attachment bracket ( (not shown), the attachment bracket is located on the distal end of the longitudinally movable drive member (not shown) of the firing drive system 530 within the handle assembly 500, as described above. This arrangement facilitates axial movement of the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 upon actuation of the firing drive system 530. Other attachment configurations may also be employed to couple the intermediate firing shaft portion to other firing drive arrangements (eg, manually actuated, robotic, etc.).

In addition to the above, the interchangeable tool assembly 7000 may include a clutch assembly 8200 that may be configured to selectively and releasably couple the proximal articulation driver 7310 to the firing member assembly 8110 in the manner described above. In one form, the clutch assembly 8200 includes a locking bushing or locking sleeve 8210 positioned about an intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 of the firing member assembly 8110, wherein the locking sleeve is rotatable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position At, the locking sleeve 8210 couples the proximal articulation driver 7310 to the firing member assembly 8110, and in the disengaged position, the proximal articulation driver 7310 is not operably coupled to the firing member assembly 8110. As mentioned above, the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 of the firing member assembly 8110 is formed with a drive notch 8126. Locking sleeve 8210 includes a cylindrical or at least substantially cylindrical body including a longitudinal bore configured to receive an intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 therethrough. The locking sleeve 8210 may include diametrically opposed inwardly facing locking tabs 8214, 8216 that are engageably received in the drive notch 8126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 when the locking sleeve 8210 is in one position. within the corresponding portion, and is not received within the drive notch 8126 when the locking sleeve 8210 is in another position, thereby allowing relative axial movement between the locking sleeve 8210 and the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 as discussed in further detail above. . Locking sleeve 8210 also includes a locking member 8218 sized to be movably received within notch 7319 in the proximal end of proximal articulation driver 7310 . When the locking sleeve 8210 is in its engaged position, the locking tabs 8214, 8216 are positioned within the drive notches 7126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 such that distal thrust and/or proximal pull forces can be transmitted from the firing member assembly 8110 to Locking sleeve 8210. Such axial push or pull motion is then transmitted from the locking sleeve 8210 to the proximal articulation driver 7310, thereby articulating the surgical end effector 7500.

As described above, in the illustrated example, relative movement of the locking sleeve 8210 between its engaged and disengaged positions may be controlled by the clutch assembly 8200 that interfaces with the proximal closure tube 7910 of the proximal closure assembly 7900. Clutch assembly 8200 also includes a clutch key 8240 configured to be slidably received within a key groove (similar to key groove 2217 shown in FIG. 8 ) formed in the outer perimeter of locking sleeve 8210 . This arrangement enables clutch key 8240 to move axially relative to locking sleeve 8210 . Operation of clutch assembly 8200 may be the same as operation of clutch assembly 2200, which is described in further detail above and will not be repeated for the sake of brevity. Further details, alternative arrangements and drive configurations that may be employed are disclosed in Other arrangements that may be employed are disclosed in the U.S. Patent entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLYACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" Application Serial No. 15/385,911, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541), and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196, as well as other disclosures incorporated herein.

The interchangeable tool assembly 7000 may include a slip ring assembly 7230 that may be configured to conduct power to and/or from the surgical end effector 7500 and/or to Signals are communicated to and/or from the surgical end effector 7500 back to, for example, the microcontroller 560 or robotic system controller in the handle assembly 500, as described above. Additional details regarding slip ring assembly 7230 and associated connectors can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 Each is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM" (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014/0263552, which U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263552 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety). into this article).

For example, the illustrated interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 also employs a latch system 7220 for removably coupling the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 to the handle frame 506 of the handle assembly 500 . The latching system 7220 may be the same as the latching system 1220 described in detail above. The toolbar 8130 may include a laminated beam structure including at least two beam layers. The beam layers may include, for example, stainless steel strips interconnected by welding or pinning, for example, at their proximal ends and/or other locations along their length. In alternative embodiments, the distal ends of the straps are not connected together, allowing the laminate or straps to expand relative to each other as the end effector articulates. Such an arrangement allows the toolbar 8130 to be flexible enough to accommodate the articulation of the end effector. Various laminated toolbar arrangements are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURESTROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As also seen in Figure 24, the firing shaft support member 8300 is used to provide lateral support for the knife bar 8130 as it flexes to accommodate articulation of the surgical end effector 7500. Further details regarding the operation of the firing shaft support assembly 8300 and the optional bar support arrangement may be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS" and "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING ANDAXIALLY" TRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR" U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,220, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As also seen in Figure 24, a firing member or knife member 8140 is attached to the distal end of the knife bar 8130. The firing member 8140 is configured to operably interface with a slide assembly 8150 operably supported within the body 7702 of the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 7700 . See Figure 51. The sliding assembly 8150 is slidably displaceable within the surgical staple cartridge body/fastener cartridge body 7702 from a proximal end starting position adjacent the proximal end 7704 of the cartridge body 7702 to a distal end adjacent the cartridge body 7702 The end position of 7706. The cartridge body 7702 operably supports therein a plurality of staple drivers (not shown) aligned in rows on each side of a centrally located slot 7708. The centrally positioned slot 7708 allows the firing member 8140 to pass therethrough and cut tissue sandwiched between the anvil 7810 and the staple cartridge 7700. The drivers are associated with corresponding staple dimples that pass through the upper platform surface of the cartridge body 7702. Each staple driver supports one or more surgical staples/fasteners or fasteners (not shown) thereon. The slide assembly includes a plurality of angled or wedge-shaped cams, where each cam corresponds to a specific line of fastener or driver located on one side of slot 7708.

In one exemplary form, firing member 8140 includes a body portion 8142 that supports a knife or tissue cutting portion 8144. See Figure 51. Body portion 8142 projects through an elongated slot 7604 in elongated channel 7602 and terminates in laterally extending foot members 8146 on each side of body portion 8142. When the firing member 8140 is driven distally through the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 7700, the foot member 8146 straddles the passage 7622 in the elongated channel 7602 below the staple cartridge 7700. Tissue cutting portion 8144 is disposed between distally projecting top nasal portions 8143. As further seen in Figure 24, the firing member 8140 may also include two laterally extending top tab, pin or anvil engagement features 8147. When the firing member 8140 is driven distally, the top portion of the body portion 8142 extends through the centrally located anvil slot 7814 and the anvil engagement features 8147 straddle each side formed in the anvil slot 7814 on the corresponding convex portion 7816. Further details regarding the firing member 8140, the slide assembly 8150, and examples of their various alternatives and their operation are discussed in further detail below and can also be found in the U.S.A. under the title "SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERSWITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" Patent application serial number 15/385,911. Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 may be operatively coupled to handle assembly 500 in the manner described above with respect to interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 .

As can be appreciated from the foregoing description, the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies described herein may be actuated by the same handle assembly, robotic system, or other automated actuation system. All of the above-described interchangeable surgical tool assemblies include surgical cutting and fastening instruments with somewhat similar closing and firing components. However, the closing and firing systems and components of each of these tool assemblies have differences that may appear subtle at first glance, but, as will be discussed further below, such differences can result in the material composition, design of such tools , significant improvements in construction, manufacture and use. As will be apparent with continued reference to the detailed description, when compared to other interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 3000, 5000, 7000 described herein, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 contains subtle design differences that may result in Significant improvements in overall functionality, reliability and cost of tool components. Additionally, we have discovered that, in some cases, synergies exist between certain component arrangements employed in tool assembly 1000, which may further increase the overall efficiency of tool assembly 1000 and enhance overall functionality. To better understand these differences and improvements, certain components and systems of each of tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, 7000 will now be further described below and compared to each other.

For example, each of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, 7000 must be capable of exerting a sufficient amount of closing force to allow the jaws to adequately grip the target tissue to allow the firing member to act upon actuation of the firing drive system. Properly handle clamped tissue. For example, in the illustrated assembly, the corresponding closure system components must be capable of clamping the anvil and surgical staple/fastener cartridge to the target tissue such that the firing member can properly sever the clamped tissue and in the tissue A line for shooting nails or fasteners on each side of the cut line. Depending on the thickness and composition of the target tissue, significant closing and firing forces are often required. Therefore, closing and firing drive systems in handle assembly housings, robot housings, etc. must be able to generate such forces of sufficient magnitude (e.g., through the use of motors or manually generated motion) to adequately close the jaws and allow the firing member to The firing passes through the clamped tissue. This type of surgery also requires that the components within the interchangeable shaft assembly are robust enough to accommodate the magnitude of the forces being transmitted through them. In the past, the magnitude of such forces has generally indicated that the closure system components, as well as the firing system components, are made of metal or other suitable materials having relatively large cross-sectional thicknesses and substantially reinforced configurations.

Tissue loads encountered during clamping typically create large "moments" about the anvil pivot axis PA. Closed system components must be designed to counteract this moment. In various cases, for example, moments in opposite directions about the anvil pivot axis PA are required. To maximize the efficiency of the system (i.e., minimize the magnitude of the applied force), the largest practical moment arm is required. However, as will be discussed further below, there are trade-offs with other design variables when trying to create large opposing moments. For example, there is a balance between the distance from the articulation joint to the first nail and the length of the moment arm of the closing system, where the firing and closing systems are separate and distinct. The larger the moment arm of a closure system, the more efficiently it can handle clamping loads and tissue compression. However, when the surgical end effector is positioned into a tight space within a laparoscopic environment, the distance between the articulation joint and the first nail can have a greater impact on the entry of the surgical end effector.

25-32 illustrate example moment arms for each of the surgical end effectors 1500, 3500, 5500, 7500. Turning first to FIG. 25 , as mentioned above, anvil trunnions 1822 extend laterally out of each side of anvil mounting portion 1820 to receive in the upstanding wall 1612 formed in the proximal end portion 1610 of elongated channel 1602 Corresponding to trunnion bracket 1614. Anvil trunnions 1822 are pivotably retained in their corresponding trunnion brackets 1614 by channel caps or anvil retainers 1630 . Channel cap 1630 includes a pair of attachment lugs 1636 configured to retainably receive corresponding lugs in an upright wall 1612 formed in proximal end portion 1610 of elongated channel 1602 within the groove or recess 1616. Such an arrangement constrains the anvil 1810 to pivot only about pivot axis PA ₁ (see Figure 3). In such an arrangement, the anvil mounting portion 1820 does not move axially or vertically. When distal closure segment 2030 is advanced in distal direction DD under horizontal closure force F _H1 (Fig. 26), internal cam surface 2036 on distal closure segment 2030 and anvil cam surface 1821 on anvil mounting portion 1820 The interaction results in the application of a closing force F _C1 to the anvil cam surface 1821 . The closing force F _C1 includes the resultant of the horizontal closing force F _H1 and the vertical closing force F _V1 and is substantially "orthogonal" or perpendicular to the cam surface 1821 on the anvil mounting portion 1820 . See Figure 26. M _A1 represents the internal cam surface 2036 on the distal closure tube segment 2030 and the anvil mounting from the anvil pivot axis PA ₁ (coinciding with the center of the anvil trunnion 1822 ) when the anvil 1810 has pivoted to the fully closed position. The closing moment arm of the contact point between the anvil cam surface 1821 on portion 1820. In one example, closing moment arm M _A1 may be approximately 0.415 inches, for example. M _A1 ×F _C1 = closing moment C _M1 applied to the anvil mounting portion 1820 .

To ensure that each side of the tissue cutting line is secured by staples or fasteners extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the tissue cutting line, the proximal end portion 1818 of the anvil body 1812 is formed with two tissue Stop formations or tissue locating features 1830 extend downwardly from each side of the anvil body 1812 (only one tissue stop formation 1830 is visible in Figures 25 and 26). When the anvil 1810 is opened to receive target tissue between the underside of the anvil and the cartridge deck surface, the downwardly extending tissue stop 1830 serves to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally past the surgical staple cartridge/fastening The most proximal nail/fastener in the part bin 1700. If the tissue were to extend proximally beyond the most proximal staple/fastener, that portion of tissue could be severed by the firing member during the firing process and may not be fastened, which could lead to catastrophic results. The downwardly extending tissue stop 1830 prevents this from occurring. In the embodiment shown in Figure 26, for example, the most proximal staple/fastener pocket 1720 is shown in phantom relative to the tissue stop 1830. As can be seen in this figure, tissue stop 1830 has a downwardly extending portion 1832 and a chamfered portion 1834. The target tissue is contacted by portions 1832, 1834 to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally beyond the most proximal staples/fasteners supported in the staple/fastener cartridge body 1702. Nail/fastener dimples 1720.

Returning again to Figure 25, when anvil 1810 is pivoted closed onto target tissue (not shown) positioned on the underside of anvil body 1812 or between tissue contact surfaces 1813, tissue exerts tissue force T _F1 to the underside 1813 of the anvil body 1812, which causes the anvil 1810 to experience a tissue reversal moment C _T1 that must be overcome by the closing moment C _M1 created by the closure system components. The example shown in Figure 25 shows evenly distributed tissue force T _F1 on anvil 1810 and tissue formed by clamped tissue (for clarity purposes, the clamped tissue is not shown in Figure 25) Moment arm M _T1 . As can be seen in this figure, in this example, the tissue moment arm M _T1 is significantly longer than the closing moment arm M _A1 (ie, M _T1 >M _A1 ).

Turning next to Figures 27 and 28, as described above, the anvil trunnions 3822 of the anvil 3810 of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 extend laterally out of each side of the anvil mounting portion 3820 to receive the anvil trunnions 3822 formed on the anvil. Corresponding trunnion holes 3613 in the upstanding wall 3612 of the proximal end portion 3610 of the elongated channel 3602. Such an arrangement constrains the anvil 3810 to pivot only about the anvil pivot axis PA ₂ (see Figure 18). In such an arrangement, the anvil mounting portion 3820 does not move axially or vertically. When distal closure segment 4030 is advanced in distal direction DD under horizontal closure force F _H2 (Fig. 28), internal cam surface 4036 on distal closure segment 4030 and anvil cam surface 3821 on anvil mounting portion 3820 The interaction results in the application of closing force F _C2 to the anvil cam surface 3821 . Closing force F _C2 includes the resultant of horizontal closing force F _H2 and vertical closing force F _V2 and is substantially "orthogonal" or perpendicular to the cam surface 3821 on the anvil mounting portion 3820 . See Figure 28. M _A2 represents the distance from the anvil pivot axis PA ₂ (the center of the anvil trunnion 3822 ) to the internal cam surface 4036 on the distal closure tube 4030 and the anvil mounting portion 3820 when the anvil 3810 has pivoted to the fully closed position. The contact point on the anvil cam surface 3821 is the closing moment arm. In one example, closing moment arm _MA2 may be approximately 0.539 inches, for example. _MA2 × F _C2 = Closing moment _CM2 applied to the anvil mounting portion 3820.

In the example shown in Figures 27 and 28, the anvil body 3812 is formed with two tissue stop formations or tissue locating features 3830 that extend downwardly from each side of the anvil body 3812 (in Figure 27 Only one tissue stop formation 3830 is visible in Figure 28). When the anvil 3810 is opened to receive target tissue between the underside of the anvil and the cartridge platform surface, the downwardly extending tissue stop formation 3830 serves to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally past the surgical staple cartridge/ The most proximal nail/fastener in the fastener bin/fastener bin 3700. In the embodiment shown in Figure 28, for example, the most proximal staple pocket 3720 is shown in phantom relative to the tissue stop formation 3830. As can be seen in this figure, tissue stop formation 3830 has a downwardly extending portion 3832 and a chamfered portion 3834. The target tissue is contacted by portions 3832, 3834 to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally beyond the most proximal staples/fasteners supported in the staple/fastener cartridge body 3702. Nail/fastener dimples 3720.

Returning again to Figure 27, when anvil 3810 is pivoted closed onto target tissue (not shown) positioned on the underside of anvil body 3812 or between tissue contact surfaces 3813, tissue exerts tissue force _TF2 to the underside 3813 of the anvil body 3812, which causes the anvil 3810 to experience a tissue reversal moment C _T2 that must be overcome by the closing moment _CM2 created by the closing system components. The example shown in Figure 27 shows a uniformly distributed tissue force T _F2 on the anvil 3810 and a tissue torque developed by the clamped tissue (for clarity purposes, the clamped tissue is not shown in Figure 27) Arm _MT2 . As can be seen in this figure, in this example, the tissue moment arm _MT2 is significantly longer than the closing moment arm M _A2 (ie, _MT2 >M _A2 ).

Turning next to Figures 29 and 30, as described above, the anvil trunnions 5822 of the anvil 5810 of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 extend laterally out of each side of the anvil mounting portion 5820 to receive the anvil formed on the thin Corresponding "open" vertical supports 5613 in the upright walls 5612 of the proximal end portion 5610 of the elongated channel 5602. In this arrangement, when the distal closure tube segment 6030 cams into contact with the anvil camming surface 5821 on the anvil mounting portion 5820, the anvil trunnions 5822 are free to pivot within their respective brackets 5613. In such an arrangement, the anvil 5810 does not move axially, but the anvil trunnions 5822 are free to move vertically within their respective brackets 5613 (arrow V). When distal closure segment 6030 is advanced in distal direction DD under horizontal closure force F _H3 (Fig. 30), internal cam surface 6036 on distal closure segment 6030 and anvil cam surface 5821 on anvil mounting portion 5820 The interaction results in the application of closing force F _C3 to the anvil cam surface 5821 . The closing force F _C3 includes the resultant of the horizontal closing force F _H3 and the vertical closing force F _V3 and is substantially "orthogonal" or perpendicular to the cam surface 5821 on the anvil mounting portion 5820 . See Figure 30. M _A3 represents the internal cam surface 6036 on the distal closure tube 6030 and the anvil mounting portion from the anvil pivot axis PA ₃ (coinciding with the center of the anvil trunnion 5822 ) when the anvil 5810 has pivoted to the closed position. 5820 is the closing moment arm at the contact point between the anvil cam surface 5821. In one example, closing moment arm M _A3 may be approximately 0.502 inches, for example. _MA3 ×F _C3 = closing moment _CM3 applied to the anvil mounting portion 5820.

In the example shown in Figures 29 and 30, the anvil body 5812 is formed with two tissue stop formations or tissue locating features 5830 that extend downwardly from each side of the anvil body 5812 (in Figures 29 and 30 only one tissue stop formation 5830) is visible. When the anvil 5810 is opened to receive target tissue between the underside of the anvil and the cartridge deck surface, the downwardly extending tissue stop formation 5830 serves to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally past the surgical staple cartridge/ The most proximal staple/fastener in the fastener bin 5700. In the embodiment shown in Figure 29, for example, the most proximal staple/fastener pocket 5720 is shown in phantom relative to the tissue stop formation 5830. As can be seen in this figure, tissue stop formation 5830 has a downwardly extending portion 5832 and a chamfered portion 5834. The target tissue is contacted by portions 5832, 5834 to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally beyond the most proximal staples/fasteners supported in the staple/fastener cartridge body 5702 Nail/fastener dimples 5720.

Returning again to Figure 29, when the anvil 5810 is pivoted closed onto the target tissue (not shown) positioned between the undersides 5813 of the anvil body 5812, the tissue exerts a tissue force _TF3 to the anvil body. The underside of 5812 or tissue contacts surface 5813, which causes the anvil 5810 to experience a tissue reversal moment C _T3 that must be overcome by the closing moment C _M3 created by the closing system components. The example shown in Figure 29 shows evenly distributed tissue force T _F3 on anvil 5810 and tissue formed by clamped tissue (for clarity purposes, the clamped tissue is not shown in Figure 29) Moment arm _MT3 . As can be seen in this figure, in this example, the tissue moment arm M _T3 is significantly longer than the closing moment arm M _A3 (i.e., M _T3 >M _A3 ).

Turning now to Figures 31 and 32, as described above, the anvil trunnions 7822 of the anvil 7810 of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 extend laterally out of each side of the anvil mounting portion 7820 to receive an elongated channel formed in the elongated channel. A corresponding "kidney-shaped" opening 7613 in the upstanding wall 7612 of the proximal end portion 7610 of 7602. When the anvil 7810 is in the "fully" open position, the anvil trunnion 7822 may be generally located in the bottom portion 7613B of the kidney-shaped slot 7613. Formed by advancing distal closure segment 8030 distally in distal direction DD such that internal cam surface 8036 on distal end 8035 of distal closure segment 8030 straddles anvil mounting portion 7820 of anvil 7810 The anvil cam surface 7821 allows the anvil 7810 to move to the closed position. When the internal cam surface 8036 on the distal end 8035 of the distal closure tube segment 8030 is advanced distally along the anvil cam surface 7821 on the anvil mounting portion 7820 under the horizontal closure force F _H4 (Fig. 32), the distal The side closing tube section 8030 causes the body portion 7812 of the anvil 7810 to pivot and move axially relative to the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 7700 as the anvil trunnion 7822 moves upward and distally into the kidney-shaped slot 7613. When the distal closure segment 8030 reaches the end of its closure stroke, the distal end 8035 of the distal closure segment 8030 abuts/contacts the steep anvil projection 7823 and serves to position the anvil 7810 such that the underside of the body portion 7812 Or the formed dimples (not shown) in the tissue contacting surface 7813 are properly aligned with the staples/fasteners in the staple/fastener cartridge 7700. Anvil boss 7823 is defined between anvil cam surface 7821 on anvil mounting portion 7820 and anvil body portion 7812. In other words, in this arrangement, the anvil cam surface 7821 does not extend to the outermost surface 7817 of the anvil body 7812. When in this position, anvil trunnion 7822 is located at top portion 7613T of kidney-shaped slot 7613. _MA4 represents the moment arm from the anvil pivot axis _PA4 (coinciding with the center of the anvil trunnion 7822) when the trunnion 7822 is in the top portion 7613T of the kidney-shaped slot 7613, as shown. In one example, moment arm _MA4 may be approximately 0.184 inches, for example. _MA4 × F _H4 = Closing moment _CM4 applied to anvil mounting portion 7820.

In the example shown in Figures 31 and 32, the anvil body 7812 is formed with two tissue stop formations or tissue locator formations 7830 that extend downwardly from each side of the anvil body 7812 (in Figures Only one tissue stop formation 7830 is visible in Figures 31 and 32). When the anvil 7810 is opened to receive target tissue between the underside of the anvil and the cartridge platform surface, the downwardly extending tissue stop formation 7830 serves to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally past the surgical staple cartridge/ The most proximal staple/fastener in the fastener bin 7700. In the embodiment shown in Figure 31, for example, the most proximal staple/fastener pocket 7720 is shown in phantom relative to the tissue stop formation 7830. As can be seen in this figure, tissue stop formation 7830 has a downwardly extending portion 7832 and a chamfered portion 7834. The target tissue is contacted by portions 7832, 7834 to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally beyond the most proximal staples/fasteners supported in the staple/fastener cartridge body 7702. Nail/fastener dimples 7720.

Returning again to Figure 31, when anvil 7810 is pivoted closed onto target tissue (not shown) positioned on the underside of anvil body portion 7812 or between tissue contacting surfaces 7813, tissue exerts tissue force T _F4 Applied to the underside 7813 of the anvil body 7812, this causes the anvil 7810 to experience a tissue reversal moment C _T4 that must be overcome by the closing moment _CM4 created by the closing system components. The example shown in Figure 31 shows the uniformly distributed tissue force T _F4 on the anvil 7810 and the tissue torque developed by the clamped tissue (for clarity purposes, the clamped tissue is not shown in Figure 31) Arm _MT4 . As can be seen in this figure, in this example, the tissue moment arm M _T4 is significantly longer than the closing moment arm M _A4 (i.e., M _T4 >M _A4 ).

The illustrated exemplary interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, 7000 include surgical stapling devices employing "separate and distinct" closure and firing systems. That is, the closure system for closing the jaws may be separately actuated from the firing system for driving the firing member through the surgical staple/fastener cartridge to cut and secure tissue. These separate and distinct closing and firing systems can be distinguished from those surgical stapling instruments in which actuation of the firing system is required to advance a firing member to move the jaws from an open position to a closed position. However, as will be discussed in further detail below, the firing member of some of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies disclosed herein may also be used when the firing member is fired (i.e., advanced distally by a surgical end effector). An additional closing movement is applied to the anvil. As can be seen by referring to Figures 25 to 32, in the illustrated example, _MA2 > _MA3 > _MA1 > _MA4 . Figures 25, 27, 29 and 31 also illustrate the resistance created by the tissue during the closure process. T _F represents the force generated by the tissue when it is clamped between the anvil and cartridge. These forces create a "reverse" moment _CT that is applied to the anvil around the point/area where the distal closed tube segment cams into contact with the anvil camming surface on the anvil mounting portion. In these illustrated examples, the tissue moment arm for each surgical instrument (tool assembly) is generally greater than the closing moment arm for that instrument. It will be appreciated that the differences between the typical tissue moment arms encountered when clamping tissue between the anvil and the surgical staple/fastener cartridge and the closing moment arm of the instrument result in the need for adequate application of the distal closure segment to the anvil. of closing force to fully close the anvil to the tissue. Therefore, the distal closure segment must be sufficiently strong and stable to handle the considerable stresses developed therein during the closure procedure. In order to form a stress state in the distal closed tube section that is more similar to a "hoop stress" state rather than a "hoop stress" state, the side wall of the distal closed tube section can be thickened to contact the side wall of the corresponding elongated channel and the anvil mounting part. Such an arrangement may also increase the strength of the overall ring structure of the tube. Maximizing the thickness on the anvil side of the distal closed tube section also increases the strength of the tube section (ring) while providing space for a larger bearing or cam surface to push the anvil down toward the bin. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,911 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" discloses several distal closure segment configurations that may be used in the various interchangeable surgical tool assemblies disclosed herein.

The foregoing discussion and comparison may illustrate that a closure system design with a large closing moment arm may result in increased efficiency of the closure system components and may reduce the amount of closing force required to achieve complete closure of the anvil to tissue. However, as mentioned above, there may be trade-offs with other design variables when trying to maximize the closing moment arm. For example, another desired attribute involves "jaw holes.""Jawhole" may refer to the distance _JA from the most distal nail or fastener along a line perpendicular to the corresponding distal most nail-forming dimple on the underside of the anvil body portion or tissue contacting surface Measured from the middle of the center. Figure 33 illustrates jaw hole J _A1 of surgical end effector 1500. In the illustrated example, the distal-most staple/fastener pocket 1730 contains the distal-most staple or fastener (not shown) therein. Each distal-most staple or fastener corresponds to a distal-most staple/fastener forming recess 1815 formed in the underside or tissue contacting surface 1813 of the anvil body 1812 (shown in dashed lines in Figure 33 ). The distance J _A1 between the distal-most staple/fastener pocket 1730 and the corresponding distal-most staple/fastener shaped pocket 1815 is the "jaw hole" of the surgical end effector 1500 . In at least one embodiment, for example, J _Al is approximately 1.207 inches. Figure 34 illustrates jaw aperture J _A2 of surgical end effector 3500. In the illustrated example, the distal-most staple/fastener pocket 3730 contains the distal-most staple or fastener (not shown) therein. Each distal-most staple or fastener corresponds to a distal-most staple/fastener forming depression 3815 formed in the underside of the anvil body 3812 or tissue contacting surface 3813. The distance J _A2 between the distal-most staple/fastener pocket 3730 and the corresponding distal-most staple/fastener shaped pocket 3815 is the "jaw hole" of the surgical end effector 3500 . In at least one embodiment, for example, J _A2 is approximately 0.781 inches. Figure 35 illustrates jaw hole J _A3 of surgical end effector 5500. In the illustrated example, the distal-most staple/fastener pocket 5730 contains the distal-most staple or fastener (not shown) therein. Each distal-most staple/fastener corresponds to a distal-most staple/fastener forming depression 5815 formed in the underside of the anvil body 5812 or tissue contacting surface 5813. The distance J _A3 between the distal-most staple/fastener pocket 5730 and the corresponding distal-most staple/fastener shaped pocket 5815 is the "jaw hole" of the surgical end effector 5500 . In at least one embodiment, for example, J _A3 is approximately 0.793 inches. Figure 36 illustrates jaw hole J _A4 of surgical end effector 7500. In the illustrated example, the distal-most staple/fastener pocket 7730 contains the distal-most staple or fastener (not shown) therein. Each distal-most staple or fastener corresponds to a distal-most staple/fastener forming depression 7815 formed in the underside of the anvil body 7812 or tissue contacting surface 7813. The distance J _A4 between the distal-most staple/fastener pocket 7730 and the corresponding distal-most staple/fastener shaped pocket 7815 is the "jaw hole" of the surgical end effector 7500 . In at least one embodiment, for example, J _A4 is about 0.717 inches. Therefore, for these embodiments, J _A1 >J _A3 >J _A2 >J _A4 . Thus, the surgical end effector 1500 has the largest jaw hole in comparison.

In those surgical end effector designs that employ separate and distinct closure and firing systems (utilizing axially moveable closure rings or distal closure segments such as the examples above), the anvil or jaw pivot axis P _A The interrelationship between the distal end of the distal closure tube segment and the robustness of the anvil mounting portion determines the size of the jaw hole achievable with each particular end effector design. These interrelationships may be better understood by referring to FIG. 37, for example. Figure 37 shows a surgical end effector 1500R employing an anvil 1810R having an anvil mounting portion 1820R shown in solid line. The anvil mounting portion 1820R includes an anvil trunnion 1822R defining a reference pivot axis P _AR about which the anvil mounting portion 1820R is pivotable relative to the elongated channel 1602R. The surgical end effector 1500R also utilizes a distal closure tube segment 2030R having a distal end 2035R configured to cam contact the anvil mounting portion 1820R in the various manners described above. Surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700R is supported in elongated channel 1602R and has a cartridge platform or tissue contacting surface 1710R. Figure 37 shows the distance _DP between the reference pivot axis P _AR and the distal end 2035R of the distal closure tube segment 2030R. Figure 37 shows anvil 1810R in solid line. When the distal closure tube section 2030R is in its proximal-most starting position relative to the anvil mounting portion 1820R, the anvil body 1812R is in its most open position. The maximum hole angle APA _R for this configuration is, for example, about ten degrees. This hole angle APA _R is typical for many end effector arrangements. In another end effector arrangement, the hole angle is 12.25 degrees. In one arrangement, for example, _DP may be approximately 0.200 inches. To obtain a larger bore angle APA _R1 of, for example, twenty-two degrees, if the relationship between the distal end 2035R of the distal closure tube segment 2030R and the reference pivot axis P _AR remains unchanged, then the anvil mounting portion 1820R ₁ The cross-sectional width M _W must be reduced undesirably. Anvil 1810R ₁ is shown in dashed lines. As can be seen in this figure, a steep bulge must be formed between the anvil body 1812R ₁ and the anvil mounting portion 1820R ₁ such that the cross-sectional width of the anvil mounting portion is reduced. Hole angle APA _R1 is measured from the underside 1813R ₁ of the anvil body 1812R ₁ and the platform surface 1710R of the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700R. Such a reduction in the stability of the anvil mounting portion of the anvil may result in the anvil being less reliable and less desirable than an anvil having an anvil mounting portion having a larger cross-sectional profile.

Referring now to Figures 38 and 39, as the pivot or pivot axis PA moves closer to the distal end of the distal closure segment's starting position or proximal position, the jaw aperture (or aperture angle) may increase. Easily implemented. 38 illustrates a surgical end effector 1500&apos; that is substantially similar to surgical end effector 1500 except for the position of pivot axis PA&apos; relative to the distal end 2035 of distal closure segment 2030. As can be seen in this figure, the distance between the pivot axis PA' and the distal end 20305 of the distal closure segment 2030 when the distal closure segment 2030 is in its most proximal starting position is represented by DP' and the bore angle is APA. In other words, when the distal closure segment 2030 is in its starting position corresponding to the fully open position of the anvil 1810, its distal end 2035 is in a reference plane RF perpendicular to the shaft axis SA. The distance between the pivot axis PA' and the reference plane RF' is DP', measured along a line perpendicular to the reference plane RF' and extending through the pivot axis PA'. In at least one arrangement, DP' is about 0.200 inches and the hole angle APA can be about 10°.

38 illustrates the bore angle APA of the surgical end effector 1500' and the distance DP' between the reference pivot axis PA' and the distal end 2035 of the distal closure tube segment 2030. Turning next to Figure 39, as can be seen in this figure, the pivot axis PA' and the distal end 2035 of the distal closure segment 2030 are located when the distal closure segment 2030 is in its most proximal starting position. The distance DP between the reference planes RF is less than the distance DP' and the aperture angle APA ₁ is greater than APA. For example, in at least one embodiment, distance DP is approximately 0.090 inches and aperture angle APA ₁ is approximately twenty-two degrees. Therefore, by moving the pivot axis PA closer to the distal end of the distal closure tube section when the distal closure tube section is in its most proximal starting position, the jaw aperture can be significantly enlarged without the need to reduce the anvil mounting location. the cross-sectional width. This may represent a significant improvement over other surgical end effector arrangements. In each case, the center of the anvil trunnion 1822 may ideally be located between 0.010 inches and 0.060 inches from the distal end 2035 of the distal closure segment 2030 when the distal closure segment is in the initial (most proximal) position. between. The maximum distance for large jaw hole applications may be, for example, 0.090 inches. Also as can be seen in Figure 39, when the anvil 1810 is in its fully open position as shown, the downwardly extending portion 1832 of the tissue stop 1830 generally stops at the cartridge platform surface 1710 to prevent the target tissue from clamping. any proximal movement during hold.

40 and 41 illustrate a tissue stop or tissue locator arrangement 1830 employed on one form of surgical end effector 1500. As noted, tissue stop 1830 includes a downwardly extending portion 1832 and a chamfered portion 1834. The downwardly extending portion 1832 includes a distal edge 1833 that terminates in a distal corner portion 1835 . Figure 40 shows the anvil 1810 in its fully open position. The underside 1813 of the anvil body 1812 is positioned at hole angle APA ₁ . In at least one arrangement, aperture angle APA ₁ is greater than 12.25 degrees (12.25°) and may be as large as eighteen degrees (18°). When in the fully open position, surgical end effector 1500 may also have a proximal aperture P _APP1 , which may be, for example, approximately 0.254 inches in at least one arrangement. The proximal hole defines how much tissue can be positioned between the proximal portions of the jaws (anvil and chamber). For example, a large proximal hole may be most advantageous when cutting and fastening lung tissue that partially expands when introduced between the anvil and cartridge. The proximal hole may be measured from the center of the most proximal fastener dimple or dimple pair directly perpendicular to the underside or tissue contacting surface on the anvil body.

When the anvil 1810 is in the fully open position as shown in Figure 40, the distal corner 1835 does not extend above the cartridge deck surface 1710 to prevent tissue movement in the proximal-most staple pocket 1720 close to the proximal staples. In at least one embodiment, upstanding channel stop portions 1619 can extend upwardly from the sidewalls of the elongated channels 1602 to coincide with each corresponding tissue stop 1830 to further prevent tissue from interfering between the tissue stop 1830 and the channel. Any proximal penetration between stop portions 1619. Figure 41 shows anvil 1810 in a fully closed position. When in this position, the distal edge 1833 of the tissue stop 1830 is generally aligned or coincident with the location of the most proximal staple/fastener in the staple/fastener cartridge 1700. The distance from the joint motion axis AA ₁ to the most proximal nail/fastener is identified as T _SD1 . In one arrangement, T _SD1 is, for example, approximately 1.044 inches. When anvil 1810 is fully closed, tissue stop 1830 may be sized and shaped relative to proximal end portion 1610 of elongated channel 1602 to facilitate easy insertion through a correspondingly sized standard trocar. In at least one example, tissue stop 1830 of anvil 1810 is sized and shaped relative to elongated channel 1602 to allow insertion of surgical end effector 1500 through a conventional 12 mm trocar.

42 and 43 illustrate a tissue stop arrangement 3830 employed on one form of surgical end effector 3500. As noted, tissue stop 3830 includes a downwardly extending portion 3832 and a chamfered portion 3834. The downwardly extending portion 3832 includes a distal edge 3833 that terminates in a distal corner portion 3835. Figure 42 shows the anvil 3810 in its fully open position. The underside 3813 of the anvil body 3812 is positioned at hole angle APA ₂ . In at least one arrangement, aperture angle APA ₂ is approximately thirteen and a half degrees (13.5°). When in the fully open position, the surgical end effector 3500 may also have a proximal aperture P _APP2 , which may be, for example, approximately 0.242 inches in at least one arrangement. When the anvil 3810 is in the fully open position as shown in Figure 42, the distal corner 3835 does not extend above the cartridge deck surface 3710 to prevent tissue from accessing the proximal staple/fastener in the proximal staple/fastener pocket 3720. Pieces move. Figure 43 shows the anvil 3810 in the fully closed position. When in this position, the distal edge 3833 of the tissue stop 3830 is generally aligned or coincident with the location of the most proximal staple/fastener in the staple/fastener cartridge 3700. The distance from the joint motion axis AA ₂ to the most proximal nail/fastener is identified as T _SD2 . In one arrangement, T _SD2 is approximately 1.318 inches, for example.

44 and 45 illustrate a tissue stop arrangement 5830 employed on one form of surgical end effector 5500. As noted, tissue stop 5830 includes a downwardly extending portion 5832 and a chamfered portion 5834. The downwardly extending portion 5832 includes a distal edge 5833 that terminates in a distal corner portion 5835. Figure 44 shows the anvil 5810 in its fully open position. The underside 5813 of the anvil body 5812 is positioned at hole angle APA ₃ . In at least one arrangement, aperture angle APA ₃ is approximately eight degrees (8°). When in the fully open position, surgical end effector 5500 may also have a proximal aperture P _APP3 , which may be, for example, approximately 0.226 inches in at least one arrangement. When the anvil 5810 is in the fully open position as shown in Figure 44, the distal corner 3835 extends slightly above the cartridge deck surface 5710. Figure 45 shows the anvil 5810 in the fully closed position. When in this position, the distal edge 5833 of the tissue stop 5830 is generally aligned or coincident with the location of the most proximal staple/fastener in the staple/fastener cartridge 5700. The distance from the joint motion axis AA ₃ to the most proximal nail/fastener is identified as T _SD3 . In one arrangement, T _SD3 is approximately 1.664 inches, for example.

46 and 47 illustrate a tissue stop arrangement 7830 employed on one form of surgical end effector 7500. As noted, tissue stop 7830 includes a downwardly extending portion 7832 and a chamfered portion 7834. The downwardly extending portion 7832 includes a distal edge 7833 that terminates in a distal corner portion 7835. Figure 46 shows the anvil 7810 in its fully open position. The underside 7813 of the anvil body portion 7812 is positioned at hole angle APA ₄ . In at least one arrangement, aperture angle APA ₄ is approximately ten degrees (10°). When in the fully open position, surgical end effector 7500 may also have a proximal aperture P _APP4 , which may be, for example, approximately 0.188 inches in at least one arrangement. When the anvil 7810 is in the fully open position as shown in Figure 46, the distal corner portion 7835 extends slightly below the cartridge deck surface 7710 to prevent tissue from accessing the proximal-most staples/fasteners in the proximal-most staple recess 7720. Figure 47 shows the anvil 7810 in the fully closed position. When in this position, the distal edge 7833 of the tissue stop 7830 is generally aligned or coincident with the location of the most proximal staple/fastener in the staple/fastener cartridge 7700. The distance from the joint motion axis AA ₄ to the most proximal nail/fastener is identified as T _SD4 . In one arrangement, T _SD4 is approximately 1.686 inches, for example.

In various cases, the relationship of the firing member to the articulation axis AA and to the jaw pivot axis PA about which the anvil pivots may relate to the length of the articulation joint arrangement. Of course, longer articulation joint arrangements can adversely affect the maneuverability of the end effector in tight spaces and also limit the size of the jaw aperture ultimately obtainable from the end effector. Figure 48 shows the surgical end effector 1500 in the fully open position. That is, anvil 1810 has pivoted to its fully open position and firing member 2140 is in its home or starting position. The distance between the distal end of each of the anvil engagement features 2147 and the articulation axis AA ₁ is represented by AJD ₁ . In at least one example, the AJD ₁ is approximately 0.517 inches. By comparison and turning to Figure 49, in at least one example, the distance AJD2 from the distal end of each of the anvil engagement features 4147 to the articulation axis _{AA2 is} approximately 0.744 inches. Referring to Figure 50, in at least one example, the distance AJD ₃ from the distal end of each of the anvil engagement features 6147 to the articulation axis AA ₃ is approximately 1.045 inches. Turning to FIG. 51 , in at least one example, the distance AJD ₄ from the distal end of each of the anvil engagement features 8147 to the articulation axis AA ₄ is approximately 1.096 inches. Therefore, as can be seen from this comparison, the articulation joint arrangement (as measured by distances AJD ₁ , AJD ₂ , AJD ₃ , AJD ₄ ) of surgical end effector 1500 is more compact and therefore comparable to that of surgical end effector 1500 in at least some surgical applications. The lower actuators 3500, 5500 and 7500 are more maneuverable.

Another factor that can affect the length of the joint arrangement involves the position of the firing member relative to the anvil pivot axis PA about which the anvil pivots. For example, Figure 52 shows anvil 1810 of surgical end effector 1500 in its fully open position. When in this position, the firing member 2140 is in its parked or "home position." As can be seen in this figure, one useful measure for comparing the "compactness" of an articulation joint arrangement is the proximal end 2149 of each of the top anvil engagement features 2147 and the anvil pivot axis PA ₁ The distance between the proximal tabs is TD ₁ . In at least one preferred arrangement, when the anvil 1810 is in the fully open position and the firing member 2140 is in its most proximal or starting position, the proximal tab distance TD ₁ is approximately greater than each of the anvil engagement features 2147 Thirty-five percent (35%) of the total length of TL ₁ . In other words, when the anvil 1810 and firing member 2140 are in the above-described position, at least 35% of each of the anvil engagement features 2147 extend proximally past the anvil pivot axis PA ₁ . Figure 53 shows the end effector 1500 with the anvil 1810 in the closed position and the firing member 2140 in its most proximal or starting position. As can be seen in this figure, at least 35% of each of the anvil engagement features 2147 extend proximally past the anvil pivot axis _PAi .

Figure 54 illustrates the position of the firing member 4140 of the surgical end effector 3500 when the anvil 3810 is in its fully open position and the firing member 4140 is in its most proximal or starting position. As can be seen in this figure, each of the anvil engagement features 4147 is located completely distal of the anvil pivot axis PA ₂ , resulting in a longer articulation joint arrangement. Therefore, distance TD ₂ is the distal distance between the proximal end 4149 of the anvil engagement feature 4147 and the anvil pivot axis PA ₂ . Figure 55 illustrates the position of the firing member 6140 of the surgical end effector 5500 when the anvil 5810 is in its fully open position and the firing member 6140 is in its most proximal or home position. As can be seen in this figure, each of the anvil engagement features 6147 is located completely distal of the anvil pivot axis PA ₃ , resulting in a longer articulation joint arrangement. Thus, distance TD ₃ is the distal distance between the proximal end 6149 of the anvil engagement feature 6147 and the anvil pivot axis PA ₃ . Figure 56 shows the position of the firing member 8140 of the surgical end effector 7500 when the anvil 7810 is in its fully open position and the firing member 8140 is in its most proximal or starting position. As can be seen in this figure, each of the anvil engagement features 8147 is located completely distal of the anvil pivot axis PA ₄ , resulting in a longer articulation joint arrangement. Thus, distance TD ₄ is the distal distance between the proximal end 8149 of the anvil engagement feature 8147 and the anvil pivot axis PA ₄ . For comparison purposes, surgical end effector 1500 is the only surgical end effector in which a portion of the anvil engagement feature on the firing member faces proximally when the firing member is in its most proximal or starting position. Extends past the anvil pivot axis. The anvil engagement features of each of the firing members of surgical end effectors 3500, 5500, and 7500 are located completely distal to their respective anvil pivot axes when the firing member is in its proximal-most or home position. . Taking this comparison further, for example, surgical end effector 1500 is the only surgical end effector in which the anvil engages at least one percent of the features when the firing member is in its home position and the anvil is fully open. Thirty-five (35%) reside between the anvil pivot axis and the joint motion axis. A similar comparison can be drawn by comparing the same distance from the position of the lower channel engagement feature on the firing member to the jaw pivot axis when the firing member is in its most proximal starting position.

Another measure that may be used to evaluate the compactness of an articulation joint arrangement may include comparing the distance of each end effector from the axis of articulation to the distal end of the anvil engagement feature on the firing member (distance AJD ₁ , AJD ₂ , AJD ₃ , AJD ₄ , Figures 48 to 51 ) relative to the distance from the joint motion axis to the distal edge of the tissue stop or the most proximal nail/fastener (distance TSD ₁ , TSD ₂ , TSD ₃ , TSD ₄ , the ratio between Figure 41, Figure 43, Figure 45, Figure 47). For example, in a preferred arrangement, AJD/TSD <0.500. The ratio of AJD/TSD may be referred to herein as the "compactness ratio" for that particular surgical end effector. In one arrangement such as end effector 1500, AJD ₁ /TSD ₁ =0.517 inches/1.044 inches=0.495. In one illustrative example of end effector 3500, AJD ₂ /TSD ₂ =0.744 inches/1.318 inches=0.564. In one illustrative example of end effector 5500, AJD ₃ /TSD ₃ =1.045 inches/1.664 inches=0.628. In one exemplary arrangement, AJD ₄ /TSD ₄ =1.096 inches/1.686 inches=.650. Thus, in at least one preferred arrangement in which the articulation joint is most compactly arranged, has the largest jaw aperture, and is the most maneuverable, the distance from the articulation axis to the proximal end of the anvil engagement feature on the firing member and The ratio between the distance from the axis of articulation to the distal edge of the tissue stop is approximately less than 0.500.

57-61 illustrate a progressive closing arrangement for moving the anvil 1810 of the surgical end effector 1500 from a fully open position to a closed position and then to an over-closed position. Figures 57 and 58 illustrate the anvil 1810 in a closed position. In both figures, the distal closure segment 2030 has been advanced in the distal direction DD to its fully closed position. As described above, the interaction between the internal cam surface 2036 on the distal closure tube section 2030 and the anvil cam surface 1821 on the anvil mounting portion 1820 causes the anvil 1810 to pivot to the closed position. As can be seen in Figure 58, the staple-forming underside or tissue-contacting surface 1813 of the anvil body 1812 may be relatively parallel and spaced relative to the cartridge deck surface 1710 of the surgical staple/fastener cartridge. When in this initial closed position, the firing member 2140 is in its starting position, as can be seen in Figure 57. When in this position, the anvil engagement feature 2147 of the firing member 2140 does not engage the anvil 1810 but is substantially horizontally aligned with the projection 1816 formed in the anvil 1810 . In at least one arrangement, a ramp segment 1829 is formed proximally of each horizontal anvil boss 1816 . 59 shows the firing member 2140 in a position after it has been advanced distally to where the anvil engagement feature 2147 has initially engaged the horizontal anvil projection 1816 on the anvil 1810, and FIG. 61 shows the firing member 2140 and The anvil 1810 is positioned such that as the firing member 2140 continues to be advanced distally, the anvil engagement features fully engage the anvil boss 1816 to exert an "over-closing" force on the anvil 1810 . In at least one arrangement as shown in Figure 61, for example, when the anvil 1810 is in an over-closed position (no tissue is clamped between the anvil and the cartridge), the distal portion of the anvil 1810 will be in contact with the cartridge platform surface. 1710 Contact. As a result of such a configuration, the force required to advance the firing member distally from its starting position to its ending position within the end effector may generally be less than other surgical tips that do not employ such progressive closure arrangements Actuator arrangement.

Figure 62 shows the anvil 1810 of the surgical end effector 1500 in its fully open position. As described above, each of the anvil trunnions 1822 is received in a corresponding trunnion bracket 1614 formed in the upright wall 1612 of the proximal end portion 1610 of the elongated channel 1602 . Anvil trunnions 1822 are pivotably retained in their corresponding trunnion brackets 1614 by channel caps or anvil retainers 1630 . Channel cap 1630 includes a pair of attachment lugs 1636 configured to retainably receive corresponding lugs in an upright wall 1612 formed in proximal end portion 1610 of elongated channel 1602 within the groove or recess 1616. During part of the closing stroke of the anvil 1810 over thick tissue, the counterforce created during tissue clamping attempts to push the anvil trunnion 1822 out of its corresponding trunnion support 1614. Channel cap 1630 includes a pair of slot cap portions 1632 corresponding to each trunnion bracket 1614 . When the channel cap 1630 is installed over the proximal end portion 1610 of the elongated channel 1602, each slot cap portion 1632 serves to retain the anvil trunnion 1822 within its respective trunnion bracket 1614 during the closing process. . As seen in FIGS. 62 and 63 , each slot cap portion 1632 may have an arcuate bottom portion 1638 configured to pivotably receive a corresponding anvil trunnion 1822 . Each slot cap 1632 may have a wedge shape to completely block the open end of the trunnion bracket 1614. Such channel cap arrangement 1630 may facilitate easy assembly of anvil 1810 to elongated channel 1602. When the anvil trunnions 1822 have been placed into their corresponding trunnion supports 1614, the channel cap 1630 can then be installed as shown. In at least one arrangement, the distal closure tube segment 2030 serves to hold the channel cap 1630 in place, which serves to prevent the anvil trunnion 1822 from becoming upright in its corresponding trunnion bracket 1614 during closure as shown in FIG. 63 move. In another arrangement, the attachment lugs 1636 may be frictionally retained within their respective recesses 1616 or otherwise retained therein by adhesive or other fastening means.

The four interchangeable tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, and 7000 employ different jaw opening configurations to facilitate movement of the anvil from a closed position to a fully open position. For example, distal closure tube section 4030 of interchangeable tool assembly 3000 includes forward jaw or anvil opening features 4040 corresponding to and projecting inwardly from each of the side walls of distal closure tube section 4030 . The forward anvil opening feature 4040 extends inwardly through a corresponding opening in the transition sidewall and may be welded to the distal closure tube segment 4030. In this arrangement, the forward anvil opening features are axially aligned with each other and configured to operably interface with corresponding opening ramps formed on the underside of the anvil mounting portion 3820 . When the anvil 3810 and the distal closure tube segment 4030 are in their fully closed positions, each of the forward anvil opening features 4040 is positioned within the cavity formed in the anvil opening ramp and elongated channel 3602 between the bottom sections. When in this position, the forward anvil opening feature 4040 does not contact the anvil mounting portion 3820 or at least may not exert any significant opening action or force thereon. As the distal closure segment 4030 moves in the proximal direction, the anvil opening feature 4040 comes into contact with the anvil opening ramp such that the anvil 3810 pivots to the open position. Further details regarding the forward anvil opening feature 4040 can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,911 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS."

Regarding the surgical end effector 5000 of the tool assembly 5500, the distal closure segment 6030 includes two inwardly extending forward anvil opening tabs 6038 that flush into the wall of the distal closure segment 6030. See Figure 21. In the illustrated arrangement, tabs 6038 are axially aligned with each other and configured to contact corresponding upright anvil tails 5827 formed on anvil mounting portion 5820 . As the distal closure segment 6030 moves in the proximal direction, the anvil opening feature 6038 comes into contact with the anvil tail 5827, causing the anvil 5810 to pivot to the open position.

Regarding the surgical end effector 7500 of the tool assembly 7000, as the distal closure segment 8030 moves proximally, a positive anvil opening motion is imparted to the anvil 7810 by the distal closure segment 8030. As described above, an upstanding anvil tab 7824 is formed on the anvil mounting portion 7820 and extends into a horseshoe-shaped opening 8038 in the distal closure tube section 8030. See Figure 24. Opening 8038 defines an opening tab 8039 configured to operably interface with anvil tab 7824 as distal closure tube segment 8030 is retracted in the distal direction. Such interaction between the opening tab 8039 and the anvil tab 7824 imparts an opening motion to the anvil 7810, causing the anvil 7810 to move to the open position.

With regard to the surgical end effector 1500 of the interchangeable tool assembly 1000, in the illustrated example, the distal closure segment 2030 employs two axially offset proximal and distal positive jaw opening features 2040 and 2050, As shown in Figure 64 to Figure 77. As can be seen in Figures 64 and 65, proximal forward jaw opening feature 2040 is axially proximate to distal forward jaw opening feature 2050 by an axial offset distance AOF. In Figure 65, proximal forward jaw opening feature 2040 is located to the right of shaft axis _SA1 (as viewed by a user of the tool assembly). Figures 66, 72, and 73 illustrate the position of the proximal forward jaw opening feature 2040 when the anvil 1810 is in the closed position. As can be seen most specifically in Figure 66, when in this position, the proximal forward jaw opening feature 2040 is located in the right or first buffer area 1825 formed in the anvil mounting portion 1820. Figures 69, 72, and 73 illustrate the position of the distal forward jaw opening feature 2050 when the anvil 1810 is in the closed position. As can be seen most specifically in Figure 69, when in this position, the distal forward jaw opening feature contacts the stepped portion 1823 of the anvil cam surface 1821.

To initiate the opening process, the jaw closure system is actuated to move the distal closure segment 2030 in the proximal direction PD. As the distal closure segment 2030 moves in the proximal direction PD, the proximal positive jaw opening feature 2040 contacts the first or right jaw opening cam surface 1826 and begins to impart jaw opening motion to the anvil 1810 . See Figure 67, Figure 74 and Figure 75. As can be seen in Figures 70, 74, and 75, during this proximal movement of the distal closure tube segment 2030, the distal forward jaw opening feature 2050 can be formed in the second or second jaw opening formed in the anvil mounting portion 1820. Axial movement within left buffer area 1840. Therefore, while the proximal forward jaw opening feature 2040 imparts a first or initial opening motion to the anvil mounting portion 1820 , the distal forward jaw opening feature 2050 does not impart any significant opening motion to the anvil 1810 . Further proximal movement of the distal closure tube segment 2030 will cause the distal forward jaw opening feature 2050 to contact the left anvil opening tab 1842 and disengage the proximal forward jaw opening feature 2040 from the jaw opening cam surface 1826 . Accordingly, the proximal forward jaw opening feature 2040 has disengaged from the anvil mounting portion 1820 and the distal forward jaw opening feature 2050 applies a second jaw opening motion to the anvil mounting portion 1820 to move the anvil 1810 Pivoting to the fully open position shown in Figures 68, 71, 76 and 77 does not impart any further opening movement to the anvil mounting portion.

Figure 78 graphically illustrates the anvil or jaw opening process employed by the interchangeable tool assembly 1000. As can be seen in this figure, the left or vertical axis of the figure represents the amount of jaw hole ("anvil hole angle") from about 0° to about 22°, and the bottom or horizontal axis represents the amount of distal closure tube segment 2030 from Approximate proximal axial travel from a position where the anvil is fully closed to a position where the anvil is fully open. As noted above, "anvil hole angle" or "jaw hole angle" may mean the cartridge platform surface or tissue contacting surface on a surgical fastener cartridge or "first jaw" and the anvil or "second jaw" The angle between the fastener shaping surface or tissue contact surface. When the anvil is fully closed, the anvil hole angle may be, for example, approximately 0°. In the illustrated arrangement, the distal closure segment 2030 may move from a first position corresponding to the fully closed position (in FIG. 1850 on the figure) moves proximally a proximal distance of, for example, about 0.040 inches to reach a first intermediate position (1852 on the figure). As the distal closure segment 2030 continues to move proximally a further proximal distance, such as about 0.040 inches to about 0.120 inches, from the first intermediate position 1852 to the second intermediate position (1854 in the figure), the proximal positive forceps The mouth opening feature 2040 moves the anvil 1810 through anvil hole angles from 0° to about 10°. As the distal closure tube segment 2030 continues to travel a further proximal distance (from about 0.120 inches to about 0.140 inches) from the second intermediate position 1854 to the third intermediate position (1856 on the figure), the anvil remains At an anvil hole angle of approximately 10°. The distal closure tube segment 2030 moves a further proximal distance (from about 0.140 inches to about 0.240 inches) from the third intermediate position 1856 to the fourth intermediate position (1858 in the figure) with the distal positive jaw The opening feature 2050 begins to impart a second jaw opening motion to the anvil 1810 . As the distal closure segment 2030 continues to move a further proximal distance (eg, from about 0.140 inches to about 0.240 inches) from the third intermediate position 1856 to the fourth intermediate position (1858 in the figure), the distal The positive jaw opening feature 2050 moves the anvil 1810 relative to the elongated channel 1602 such that the anvil hole angle increases, for example, from about 10° to about 22°. As the distal closure tube segment 2030 continues to travel a further proximal distance (eg, from about 0.240 inches to about 0.260 inches) from the fourth intermediate position 1858 to the final proximal position (1860 in the figure), the anvil 1810 remains in the fully open position with the anvil hole angle at approximately 22°.

The closing process of the illustrative example of the interchangeable tool assembly 1000 can be understood by referring to FIGS. 67-69 and 70-72 and 78 . Figures 68 and 71 illustrate the anvil 1810 in its fully open position. As can be seen in these figures, the proximal forward jaw opening feature 2040 is not in contact with the anvil mounting portion 1820 and the distal forward jaw opening feature 2050 is in contact with the left anvil opening tab 1842 . When the anvil closure process begins, the closure drive system is actuated to move the distal closure segment 2030 in the distal direction DD. As the distal closure segment moves from the final proximal position 1860 to the fourth intermediate position 1858 (Fig. 78), the anvil 1810 remains in its fully open position. Accordingly, when the closure process begins, in at least one example, the distal closure segment 2030 may move distally a first or initial predetermined axial closure distance before the anvil 1810 begins to move. In other words, the distal closure tube segment may move a first predetermined axial closure distance before any closure movement is applied to the anvil 1810 . In at least one example, the first or initial predetermined closure distance may be approximately 0.020 inches. As the distal closure segment 2030 continues to move distally through the intermediate axial closure distance, the distal end 2035 of the distal closure segment 2030 begins to contact the anvil cam surface 1821 on the anvil mounting portion 1820 (Fig. 67 and Fig. 70) until the inner cam surface 2036 on the distal closure segment 2030 begins to cam into contact with the anvil cam surface 1821. As the inner cam surface 2036 travels over the anvil cam surface 1821, the anvil 1810 pivots to the fully closed position. Anvil cam surface 1821 and inner cam surface 2036 may be configured to allow further distal advancement of distal closure tube segment 2030 from, for example, first intermediate point or position 1852 to first position 1850 (FIG. 78). Thus, in at least one example, after the anvil 1810 has reached its fully closed position, the distal closure tube segment 2030 may move distally a final predetermined axial closure distance during the closure process. In at least one example, the final predetermined axial closure distance may be approximately 0.040 inches.

In those surgical stapling devices employing a firing member assembly that includes a firing member having a tissue cutting surface, it may be advantageous to have portions of the firing system and end effector constructed in such a manner as to prevent inadvertent advancement of the firing member unless otherwise The spent cartridge is properly supported in the end effector. For example, if no staple cartridge is present and the firing member is advanced distally through the end effector, the tissue will be severed but not stapled. Similarly, if there is an exhausted staple cartridge in the end effector (i.e., a staple cartridge from which at least some staples have been fired) and the firing member is advanced, the tissue will be severed, but may not be completely stapled live. It should be understood that such situations may lead to undesirable catastrophic outcomes during surgical procedures. US Patent 6,988,649 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SPENTCARTRIDGE LOCKOUT", US Patent 7,044,352 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTHAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR PREVENTION OF FIRING", US Patent 7,044,352 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MEC" HANISM FORPREVENTION OF FIRING "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTSWITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION WHEN ACARTRIDGE IS SPENT OR MISSING" U.S. Patent No. 7,380,695, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016-0367247-A1 titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING" SYSTEMACTUATION UNLESS U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,958 "AN UNSPENT STAPLE CARTRIDGE IS PRESENT" each discloses various firing member latching arrangements. Each of these U.S. patents is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Referring to Figures 60A-60I, a surgical end effector 9010 is shown including a portion of a surgical tool assembly 9000, the surgical end effector including a first jaw 9020 and a second jaw 9120. In the illustrated arrangement, for example, first jaw 9020 includes an elongated channel 9022 configured to removably and operably support surgical staple cartridge 9600 therein. Elongated channel 9022 is attached to elongated shaft assembly 9300 of the surgical tool assembly. In the arrangement shown in Figures 60C-60D, elongated channel 9022, for example, is pivotally coupled to spine assembly 9310 of elongated shaft assembly 9300 for selective articulation therewith. See Figure 60D, Figure 60E, Figure 60H, and Figure 60I. Elongated shaft assembly 9300 may define shaft axis SA. Second jaw 9120 includes an anvil 9122 movably supported on elongated channel 9022 and movable between an open position and a closed position by closure system 9400. Anvil 9122 includes an anvil body 9124 and an anvil mounting portion 9126 that is pivotally supported for pivotal travel relative to a proximal end 9024 of elongated channel 9022. Closure system 9400 may include, for example, an axially movable distal closure segment 9410 configured to cam when the distal closure segment 9410 is axially advanced in the distal direction DD. Engage cam surface 9128 on anvil mounting portion 9126. The distal closure tube section 9410 may also be configured to impart an opening movement to the anvil mounting portion 9126 as the distal closure tube section 9410 moves in the proximal direction PD. See Figure 60C and Figure 60D.

Surgical tool assembly 9000 also includes a firing system 9500 which, in the illustrated arrangement, includes a firing member assembly 9510 configured to be fired from a firing device supported, for example, in a housing of a handheld control system or a robotic control system. The control system receives the firing movement. In the illustrated embodiment, one form of firing member assembly 9510 includes a first firing member element 9520 consisting of a firing member body 9522 that supports a tissue cutting surface or blade 9524 thereon. The firing member body 9522 is coupled to a firing rod or blade 9530 that operably interfaces with a corresponding portion of the firing system 9500 to receive firing motion from the firing control system. The firing member body 9522 may include a second jaw or anvil engagement feature 9526 that may include a laterally extending tab feature that is Constructed to be received within a corresponding second jaw channel or slot 9125 in the anvil body 9124. Additionally, the firing member body 9522 may also include a first jaw or channel engagement feature or foot 9528 configured to receive a corresponding in the elongated channel 9022 in the first jaw channel or slot or opening 9023.

The nail cartridge 9600 includes a cartridge body 9602. See Figure 60H and Figure 60I. Cartridge body 9602 includes a proximal end 9604, a distal end (not shown), and a platform 9606 extending between the proximal and distal ends. In use, the staple cartridge 9600 is positioned on a first side of the tissue to be sutured and the anvil 9122 is positioned on a second side of the tissue. Anvil 9122 moves toward staple cartridge 9600 to compress and clamp tissue against platform 9606. Staples or fasteners removably stored in cartridge body 9602 can then be deployed into tissue. Cartridge body 9602 includes a staple or fastener cavity (not shown) defined therein, wherein staples or fasteners (not shown) are removably stored in the staple cavity. The nail cavities may be arranged in longitudinal rows. In one arrangement, for example, three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of the longitudinal slot and three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot. The longitudinal slot is configured to axially receive the first firing member element 9520 therethrough. Other arrangements of nail cavities/fastener cavities and nails or fasteners are also possible.

Staples or fasteners are supported by a staple driver (not shown) movably supported in cartridge body 9602. The driver is movable between a first or unfired position and a second or fired position to eject nails or fasteners from the cavity. The driver is retained in the cartridge body 9602 by a retainer (not shown) that extends around the bottom of the cartridge body 9602 and includes elastic members configured to grip the cartridge body and retain the retainer to the cartridge body. The driver is moveable by slide 9610 between its unfired position and its fired position. Slide 9610 is movable between a proximal or "unfired" position adjacent proximal end 9604 and a distal or "fired" position (after firing) adjacent the distal end. As can be seen in Figure 60G, the slider 9610 includes a plurality of ramps or cam surfaces 9620 configured to slide under the driver and direct the driver and staples or fasteners supported on the driver toward the anvil. Seat lift. "Unfired", "unused", "fresh" or "new" staple cartridge 9600 means herein that the staple cartridge 9600 has all staples or fasteners in their "ready to fire position". When in this position, the slide assembly 9610 is in its home or "unfired" position. The new staple cartridge 9600 is disposed within the elongated channel 9022 and may be retained therein by snap features on the cartridge body 9602 that are configured to retain engagement with corresponding portions of the elongated channel 9022. 60G and 60H illustrate a portion of a surgical end effector 9010 with a new or unfired surgical staple cartridge 9600 disposed therein. As can be seen in Figures 60G and 60H, slide 9610 is in the unfired position. To prevent the firing system 9500 from being activated, and more specifically, to prevent the first firing member element 9520 from being driven distally through the surgical end effector 9010 unless an unfired or new surgical staple cartridge 9600 has been properly seated. Within elongated channel 9022, the otherwise illustrated surgical tool assembly 9000 employs a firing member latching system generally designated 9700.

Referring now to FIGS. 60E and 60F , in one form, firing member locking system 9700 includes a second firing member element or tiltable element 9710 that includes a sliding engagement portion 9720 . In the illustrated arrangement, the second firing member element 9710 is pivotally coupled to the firing member body 9522 via an attachment joint 9713, such as in the form of one or more pivot members 9714 that are pivotally received in the A corresponding pivot hole 9523 is provided in the firing member body 9522 for pivotal travel relative thereto about a pivot axis PA transverse to the shaft axis SA. Such an arrangement facilitates pivotal travel of the second firing member element 9710 relative to the firing member body 9522 between a locked position (Fig. 60E) and an unlocked position (Fig. 60F). In the illustrated example, firing member body 9522 includes a distal surface 9525 that is generally perpendicular to the channel engagement feature 9528 and a latching surface 9527 that is angled relative to the distal surface 9525 . Additionally, one or more support ramps 9529 are formed on the firing member body 9522 for defining corresponding seating surfaces 9531 for receiving the second firing member element 9710 when in the locked configuration. See Figure 60E.

As can be seen in Figure 60F, when the second firing member element 9710 is in the unlocked position, a space, generally designated 9724, is provided between the proximal surface 9722 of the second firing member element 9710 and the distal surface 9525 of the firing member body 9522 . Therefore, when in the unlocked position, the proximal surface 9722 of the second firing member element 9710 is not in contact with the distal surface 9525 of the firing member body 9522. Referring now to Figures 60A-60D, the second firing member element 9710 also includes at least one latching engagement portion 9730 that includes an angled locking end 9732 configured to enable the second firing member element to 9710 when in the locked position engages a corresponding latching recess 9026 formed in the elongated channel 9022. In one embodiment, for example, the second firing member element 9710 includes two latching engagement portions 9730. As also seen in Figures 60A-60D, a latching spring or biasing member 9740 is mounted in the proximal end 9024 of the elongated channel 9022 and includes two spring arms 9742 each corresponding to a latching engagement portion 9730. Spring arm 9742 serves to bias second firing member element 9710 into the locked position, as shown in Figures 60B-60D.

Turning now to Figures 60G-60I, the slide 9630 includes an unlocking portion 9630 configured to engage the slide engaging portion 9630 on the second firing member element 9710 when the slide 9610 is in the unfired position. Such an arrangement serves to pivot the second firing member element 9710 to the unlocked position. When in the unlocked position, the angled locking end 9732 of each latch engagement portion 9730 is pivoted out of the corresponding latch notch 9026 in the elongated channel 9022 such that the firing member assembly 9510 can be fired or distally Push through the staple bin. If the staple cartridge that has been loaded into the elongated channel 9022 was previously fired or even partially fired, the slide 9610 will not be in the unfired position in order to pivot the second firing member element 9710 into the unlocked position. In the example described, the clinician would therefore be unable to advance or fire the firing member assembly 9510 distally. When in the unlocked position, actuation of firing system 9500 will result in distal advancement of firing member assembly 9510. As described above, when the firing member assembly 9510 is driven distally, the second firing member element 9710 contacts the firing member body 9522 through the pivot member 9714. However, when the second firing member element 9710 pivots into the locked position (FIG. 60E), a portion of the proximal surface 9722 is in abutting contact with the angled latching surface 9527 on the firing member body 9522. Additionally, as can be seen most specifically in Figures 60E and 60F, the pivot hole 9523 in the firing member body 9522 is sized relative to the corresponding pivot member 9714 to provide a gap C therebetween to allow the passage of a load The second firing member element is passed directly to the firing member body 9522 rather than through the pivot member 9714. As seen in Figure 60E, the angled locking surface 9527 facilitates pivotal travel of the slide engagement portion 9720 into the locked position. When the second firing member element 9720 is in the locked position, if the clinician inadvertently applies a firing motion FM to the firing member assembly 9510 in the distal direction DD, the second firing member element 9720 and the latching notch 9026 in the elongated channel 9022 Engagement therebetween will prevent distal advancement of the firing member assembly 9510 and cause the resulting unlocking load force UL to be applied to the second firing member element 9720. This unlocking load force UL will be applied to the angled locking surface 9527 on the firing member body 9522 and will not be applied to the pivot member 9714. Such an arrangement avoids loading or compressing the pivot member 9714 if the clinician inadvertently attempts to advance the firing member assembly 9510 while in the locked position. Accordingly, this configuration may prevent the pivot member 9714 from shearing during such attempted advancement of the first firing member assembly 9510.

Accordingly, the aforementioned firing member assembly 9510 and firing member locking assembly 9700 may provide several advantages. For example, as discussed above, the distal surface 9525 on the firing member body 9522 carries loads during firing and avoids transferring such loads to the pivot member attaching the second firing member element 9710 to the first firing member element 9520 . When in the latched state or locked position, the load is carried by the angled locking end 9732 on the latching engagement portion 9730. This arrangement also avoids the need for the firing member assembly 9510, or more precisely the first firing member element 9520, to move vertically, which could inadvertently cause misalignment with the anvil and elongated channel when moved to the unlocked state for firing. . Additionally, because the first firing member element 9520 does not move vertically, the anvil engagement features as well as the channel engagement features may be advantageously shaped and designed to obtain the desired engagement with the anvil and channel during firing. The design and shape of the firing member body may also provide a large surface area for attachment to the blade bar by, for example, welding. For example, the distal end of the blade may be attached to the firing member body via butt welds and laser welds from both sides to interconnect the laminates forming the blade at the distal end. Such welding configurations can be longitudinally more compact than previous welding configurations and can result in superior joint lengths. Other advantages may also be obtained from the foregoing firing member and locking system arrangements.

Many of the surgical instrument systems described herein are actuated by electric motors; however, the surgical instrument systems described herein may be actuated in any suitable manner. In various examples, for example, the surgical instrument systems described herein may be actuated by a manually operated trigger. In some examples, the motors disclosed herein may comprise part or parts of a robotic control system. Additionally, any end effector and/or tool assembly disclosed herein may be used with robotic surgical instrument systems. For example, US Patent Application Serial No. 13/118,241 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS" (now US Patent 9,072,535) discloses several examples of robotic surgical instrument systems in greater detail.

The surgical instrument systems described herein have been described in conjunction with deployment and deformation of staples; however, embodiments described herein are not so limited. For example, various embodiments are contemplated that deploy fasteners other than nails, such as clamps or tacks. Additionally, various embodiments utilizing any suitable device for sealing tissue are also contemplated. For example, end effectors according to various embodiments may include electrodes configured to heat and seal tissue. Additionally, for example, end effectors according to certain embodiments may apply vibrational energy to seal tissue.

Example

Embodiment 1 - A surgical instrument including an elongated shaft assembly defining a shaft axis. The surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly for selective articulation relative to the elongated shaft assembly about an articulation axis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector includes a first end effector jaw coupled to an articulation joint coupled to the elongated shaft assembly. The second end effector jaw is coupled to the first end effector jaw for selective pivotal travel relative to the first end effector jaw about a jaw pivot axis transverse to the shaft axis. One of the first end effector jaw and the second end effector jaw is configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge including a proximal-most fastener location therein. One of the first end effector jaw and the second end effector jaw is moveable between an open position and a fully closed position by an axially moveable closing member including a closing A member cam surface configured for cam contact with a jaw cam surface on one of the first and second actuator jaws. A first distance between the articulation axis and the cam contact area between the closure member cam surface and the jaw cam surface divided by a second distance from the articulation axis to the proximal-most fastener position is less than 0.5.

Embodiment 2 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 1, wherein the first distance between the jaw pivot axis and the cam contact area between the closing cam member surface and the jaw cam surface is divided by The second distance of the side fastener locations is greater than 0.2 and less than 0.5.

Embodiment 3 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the surgical fastener cartridge is supported in the first end effector jaw, and wherein the second end effector jaw includes an anvil, the The anvil includes jaw cam surfaces.

Embodiment 4 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 1, 2 or 3, wherein the jaw pivot axis is fixed.

Embodiment 5 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 3, wherein the anvil includes at least one tissue stop member including a distal tissue contacting surface on the anvil. The fully closed position corresponds to the most proximal fastener position.

Embodiment 6 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 3 or 5, wherein the anvil includes an anvil body and an anvil mounting portion including a jaw cam surface and a pair of laterally extending anvil ears. Shafts, the anvil trunnions are configured to be pivotably supported in corresponding openings in the first end effector jaws.

Embodiment 7 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, wherein the closure member includes an axially movable distal closure segment including the closure member cam surface .

Embodiment 8 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 7, wherein the elongated shaft assembly includes a spine assembly operably coupled to the first end effector jaw and movably supported for axial travel relative to the spine assembly and a proximal closure tube assembly pivotally coupled to the axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Embodiment 9 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 8, wherein the proximal closure tube assembly is operably interfaced with a closure system configured to selectively apply axial closure to the proximal closure tube assembly and open movement.

Embodiment 10 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 9, wherein the closure system is supported by the handheld housing.

Embodiment 11 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 10, wherein the closure system is supported by a housing operably interfaced with a robotically controlled actuator.

Embodiment 12 - A surgical instrument comprising an elongated shaft assembly defining a shaft axis and further comprising a surgical end effector operatively coupled to the elongated shaft assembly , for selective articulation relative to the elongated shaft assembly about an axis of articulation transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector includes an elongated channel coupled to an articulation joint coupled to an elongated shaft assembly. The elongated channel is configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge. The surgical fastener cartridge includes a proximal-most fastener location. The surgical end effector also includes an anvil pivotably coupled to the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel about a fixed anvil pivot axis transverse to the shaft axis. . The anvil is moveable between an open position and a fully closed position by an axially movable closure member including a closure member cam surface configured to engage the anvil. Cam contact on the anvil cam surface. The first distance between the articulation axis and the closure member cam surface and the cam contact area between the cam surfaces divided by the second distance from the articulation axis to the proximal-most fastener position is less than 0.5.

Embodiment 13 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 12, wherein the first distance between the anvil pivot axis and the cam contact area between the closure member cam surface and the anvil cam surface is divided by The second distance of the proximal fastener location is greater than 0.2 and less than 0.5.

Embodiment 14 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 12 or 13, wherein the anvil includes at least one tissue stop member including a distal tissue contacting surface, the distal tissue contacting surface being The anvil in its fully closed position corresponds to the most proximal fastener position.

Embodiment 15 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 12, 13 or 14, wherein the anvil includes an anvil body and an anvil mounting portion including an anvil cam surface and a pair of laterally extending anvils. Seat trunnions, the anvil trunnions being configured to be pivotably supported in corresponding openings in the elongated channel.

Embodiment 16 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 12, 13, 14, or 15, wherein the closure member includes an axially moveable distal closure segment that includes a closure member cam surface.

Embodiment 17 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 16, wherein the elongated shaft assembly includes a spine assembly operatively coupled to the elongated channel. The proximal closure tube assembly is movably supported for axial travel relative to the spine assembly and is pivotally coupled to the axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Embodiment 18 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 17, wherein the proximal closure tube assembly is operably interfaced with a closure system configured to selectively apply axial closure to the proximal closure tube assembly. and open movement.

Embodiment 19 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 18, further comprising a firing member operatively supported to travel axially through the surgical fastener cartridge upon application of an axial firing motion to the firing member.

Embodiment 20 - A surgical system including a housing operative to support a closure system in the housing. The surgical system also includes an interchangeable surgical tool assembly including an elongated shaft assembly operably and removably coupled to the housing such that the elongated shaft assembly The proximal closure portion is configured to receive axial closure movement from the closure system. The elongated shaft assembly defines a shaft axis. The surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly for selective articulation relative to the elongated shaft assembly about an articulation axis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector includes a first end effector jaw coupled to an articulation joint coupled to the elongated shaft assembly. The second end effector jaw is coupled to the first end effector jaw for selective pivotal travel relative to the first end effector jaw about a jaw pivot axis transverse to the shaft axis. One of the first end effector jaw and the second end effector jaw is configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge including a proximal-most fastener location. One of the first end effector jaw and the second end effector jaw is moveable between an open position and a fully closed position by an axially moveable distal closure member. The closure member is operably coupled to the proximal closure portion of the elongate shaft assembly. The distal closure member includes a closure member cam surface configured for cam contact with a jaw cam surface on one of the first end effector jaw and the second end effector jaw. A first distance between the articulation axis and the cam contact area between the closure member cam surface and the jaw cam surface divided by a second distance from the articulation axis to the proximal-most fastener position is less than 0.5.

Embodiment 21 - A surgical instrument including an elongated shaft assembly defining a shaft axis. A surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly for selective articulation relative to the elongated shaft assembly about an articulation axis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector also includes a first end effector jaw coupled to an articulation joint coupled to the elongated shaft assembly. The second end effector jaw is coupled to the first end effector jaw for selective pivotal travel relative to the first end effector jaw about a jaw pivot axis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical instrument also includes an axially movable firing member, the axially movable firing member including at least one jaw engagement feature configured to move with the axially movable firing member. The firing member moves within the first end effector jaw from a starting position to an end position imparting a closing motion to the second end effector jaw. The at least one jaw engagement feature is configured such that a portion of the at least one jaw engagement feature is positioned between the jaw pivot axis and the articulation axis when the axially movable firing member is in the home position.

Embodiment 22 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 21, wherein the at least one jaw is engaged when the axially moveable firing member is in the home position and the second end effector jaw is in the fully open position. A portion of the feature structure is positioned between the jaw pivot axis and the articulation axis.

Embodiment 23 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 21 or 22, wherein at least thirty-five percent of each jaw engagement feature is located in the axially moveable firing member when in the home position. between the jaw pivot axis and the joint motion axis.

Embodiment 24 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 22, wherein when the axially moveable firing member is in the home position and the end effector jaw is in a fully open position, each jaw engagement feature At least thirty-five parts of the structure are located between the jaw pivot axis and the articulation axis.

Embodiment 25 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 21, 22, 23 or 24, further comprising an axially movable closure member capable of being independent with respect to the axially movable firing member. movable and configured to selectively impart additional closing motion to the second end effector jaw.

Embodiment 26 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 25, wherein the axially movable closure member includes a closure member cam surface configured for contact with the jaws on the second end effector jaw. Port cam surface cam contact.

Embodiment 27 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or 26, wherein the axially moveable firing member includes a tissue cutting surface.

Embodiment 28 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, or 27, wherein the first end effector jaw includes an elongated channel configured to A surgical fastener cartridge is operatively supported in the elongated channel, and wherein the second end effector jaw includes an anvil.

Embodiment 29 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 or 28, wherein the jaw pivot axis is fixed.

Embodiment 30 - A surgical instrument including an elongated shaft assembly defining a shaft axis. A surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly for selective articulation relative to the elongated shaft assembly about an articulation axis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector includes an elongated channel coupled to an elongated shaft assembly and configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge in the elongated channel. An anvil is coupled to the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel about a fixed jaw pivot axis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical instrument also includes an axially movable firing member, the axially movable firing member including at least one anvil engagement feature configured to move with the axially movable firing member. The firing member moves within the elongated channel from a starting position to an ending position imparting a closing motion to the anvil. The at least one anvil engagement feature is configured such that a portion of the at least one jaw engagement feature is positioned between the fixed jaw pivot axis and the articulation axis when the axially movable firing member is in the home position.

Embodiment 31 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 30, wherein when the axially moveable firing member is in the home position and the anvil is in a fully open position, the at least one jaw engagement feature A portion is positioned between the fixed jaw pivot axis and the articulation axis.

Embodiment 32 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 30 or 31, wherein at least thirty-five percent of each anvil engagement feature is located when the axially moveable firing member is in the home position. between the fixed jaw pivot axis and the joint motion axis.

Embodiment 33 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 30, 31 or 32, wherein each anvil engages at least thirty percent of the feature when the axially moveable firing member is in the home position. Five is located between the fixed jaw pivot axis and the joint motion axis.

Embodiment 34 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 30, wherein when the axially moveable firing member is in the home position and the anvil is in the fully open position, at least three of each anvil engagement feature Fifteen is located between the jaw pivot axis and the joint motion axis.

Embodiment 35 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 30, 31, 32, 33, or 34, further comprising an axially movable closure member capable of moving relative to the axially movable closure member. The moving firing member moves independently and is configured to selectively impart additional closing motion to the anvil.

Embodiment 36 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 35, wherein the axially moveable closure member includes a closure member cam surface configured to cam contact an anvil cam surface on the anvil. .

Embodiment 37 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, or 36, wherein the firing member includes a tissue cutting surface.

Embodiment 38 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, or 36, wherein the firing member includes a firing member body that includes a tissue cutting surface on the firing member body, and wherein the at least one anvil engagement feature includes a first anvil engagement tab protruding from a first side of the top portion of the firing member body and a second anvil protruding from a second side of the top portion of the firing member body. Seat engagement tab.

Embodiment 39 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 38, wherein the firing member body extends through the slot in the anvil mounting portion of the anvil when the firing member is in the home position.

Embodiment 40 - A surgical system including a housing operatively supporting a closure system and a firing system. The closing member and the firing member are independently actuatable relative to each other. The surgical system also includes an interchangeable surgical tool assembly including an elongated shaft assembly operably and removably coupled to the housing such that the elongated shaft assembly The proximal closing portion is configured to receive axial closing movement from the closure system, and the proximal firing member of the elongated shaft assembly is configured to receive firing movement from the firing system. The elongated shaft assembly defines a shaft axis. The surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly for selective articulation relative to the elongated shaft assembly about an articulation axis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector includes an elongated channel coupled to an elongated shaft assembly and configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge in the elongated channel. An anvil is coupled to the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel about a jaw pivot axis transverse to the shaft axis. The axially movable firing member is operably coupled to the proximal firing member and includes at least one anvil engagement feature configured to move with the axially movable firing member at the Moving within the elongated channel from a starting position to an ending position imparts a closing movement to the anvil. The at least one anvil engagement feature is configured such that a portion of the at least one jaw engagement feature is positioned between the jaw pivot axis and the articulation axis when the axially movable firing member is in the home position.

Embodiment 41 - The surgical system of embodiment 40, wherein the housing includes a portion of the robotic system.

Embodiment 42 - A surgical instrument including an elongate shaft assembly defining a shaft axis. A first end effector jaw is coupled to the elongated shaft assembly, and a second end effector jaw is coupled to the first end effector jaw to surround a stationary jaw transverse to the shaft axis and extending therethrough The pivot axis is selectively pivotally travelable relative to the first end effector jaw between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The elongated shaft assembly includes a closure member capable of being positioned in an initial position corresponding to a fully open position of the second end effector jaw and corresponding to the second end effector jaw relative to the first end effector. Axial movement of the jaws between the fully closed position and the end position. When the closure member is in the home position, the distal end of the closure member lies in a plane spaced distally from the jaw pivot axis a distance measured along the shaft axis, which distance is no more than 0.090 inches.

Embodiment 43 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 42, wherein when the closure member is in the home position, the distal end of the closure member lies on a plane and the plane intersects the jaw pivot axis.

Embodiment 44 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 42 or 43, wherein the distance is within 0.010 inches to 0.060 inches.

Embodiment 45 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 42, 43, or 44, wherein the closure member includes an axially moveable distal closure segment, the distal closure segment including a closure cam surface configured to A jaw cam surface on the second end effector jaw is capable of camming engagement as the axially moveable distal closure tube segment moves from the starting position to the ending position.

Embodiment 46 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 42, 43, 44, or 45, wherein the first end effector jaw includes an elongated channel configured to operably support the elongated channel. A surgical fastener cartridge is in the channel, and wherein the second end effector jaw includes an anvil.

Embodiment 47 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 46, wherein the anvil includes an anvil body and an anvil mounting portion including an anvil cam surface and a pair of laterally extending anvil trunnions, The anvil trunnions are configured to be pivotably supported in corresponding openings in the elongated channel.

Embodiment 48 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 46 or 47, wherein the closure member includes an axially moveable distal closure segment, the distal closure segment including a closure cam surface configured to The axially moveable distal closure tube segment cams to engage an anvil cam surface on the anvil as it moves from the starting position to the ending position.

Embodiment 49 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 48, wherein the elongate shaft assembly includes a spine assembly operatively coupled to the elongate channel and movably supported for axial travel and pivotability relative to the spine assembly. A proximal closure tube assembly is rotationally coupled to the axially moveable distal closure tube segment.

Embodiment 50 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 49, wherein the proximal closure tube assembly is operably interfaced with a closure system configured to selectively apply axial closure to the proximal closure tube assembly and open movement.

Embodiment 51 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 50, wherein the closure system is supported by the handheld housing.

Embodiment 52 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 50, wherein the closure system is supported by a housing operably interfaced with a robotically controlled actuator.

Embodiment 53 - A surgical instrument including an elongated shaft assembly defining a shaft axis. The elongated channel is configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge in the elongated channel and is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly for relative to the elongated shaft assembly about an axis of articulation transverse to the shaft axis. Selective joint movement. The anvil is pivotally coupled to the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position about a fixed jaw pivot axis transversely intersecting the shaft axis. The elongated shaft assembly includes a closure member axially moveable between a starting position corresponding to a fully open position of the anvil and an end position corresponding to a fully closed position of the anvil. When the closure member is in the home position, the distal end of the closure member lies in a plane spaced distally from the jaw pivot axis a distance measured along the shaft axis, which distance is no more than 0.090 inches.

Embodiment 54 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 53, wherein when the closure member is in the home position, the distal end of the closure member lies on a plane and the plane intersects the jaw pivot axis.

Embodiment 55 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 53 or 54, wherein the distance is within 0.010 inches to 0.060 inches.

Embodiment 56 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 53, 54, or 55, wherein the anvil includes an anvil body and an anvil mounting portion including an anvil cam surface and a pair of laterally extending anvils. Seat trunnions, the anvil trunnions being configured to be pivotably supported in corresponding openings in the elongated channel.

Embodiment 57 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 53, 54, 55, or 56, wherein the closure member includes an axially moveable distal closure segment, the distal closure segment including a closure cam surface, the closure cam surface being Constructed to cammingly engage an anvil cam surface on the anvil as the axially moveable distal closure tube segment moves from the starting position to the ending position.

Embodiment 58 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 57, wherein the elongate shaft assembly includes a spine assembly operatively coupled to the elongate channel and movably supported for axial travel and pivotability relative to the spine assembly. A proximal closure tube assembly is rotationally coupled to the axially moveable distal closure tube segment.

Embodiment 59 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 58, wherein the proximal closure tube assembly is operably interfaced with a closure system supported by the handheld housing and configured to selectively close proximally. The tube assembly exerts axial closing and opening movements.

Embodiment 60 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 58, wherein the proximal closure tube assembly is operably interfaced with a closure system supported by a housing configured to interface with a robotic system. The closure system is configured to selectively impart axial closing and opening motion to the proximal closure tube assembly.

Embodiment 61 - A surgical system including a housing operative to support a closure system. The surgical system also includes an interchangeable surgical tool assembly including an elongated shaft assembly operably and removably coupled to the housing such that the elongated shaft assembly The proximal closure portion is configured to receive axial closure movement from the closure system. The elongated shaft assembly defines a shaft axis. The surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly for selective articulation relative to the elongated shaft assembly about an articulation axis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector includes an elongated channel coupled to an elongated shaft assembly and configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge in the elongated channel. An anvil is coupled to the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel about a jaw pivot axis transversely intersecting the shaft axis. The elongated shaft assembly includes a closure member axially moveable between a starting position corresponding to a fully open position of the anvil and an end position corresponding to a fully closed position of the anvil. When the closure member is in the home position, the distal end of the closure member lies in a plane spaced distally from the jaw pivot axis a distance measured along the shaft axis, which distance is no more than 0.090 inches.

Embodiment 62 - A surgical stapling device including an elongated shaft assembly defining a shaft axis. The surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly by an articulation joint configured to facilitate selective articulation of the surgical end effector about an articulation axis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector includes a surgical staple cartridge operative to support a plurality of surgical staples in the surgical staple cartridge. The anvil is supported for selective pivotal travel relative to the surgical staple cartridge between a fully open position and a closed position. The anvil includes a plurality of staple-forming pockets corresponding to surgical staples in the surgical staple cartridge. The surgical stapling device also includes an axially movable firing member, the axially movable firing member including at least one anvil engagement feature on the axially movable firing member, the at least one anvil engagement feature configured To be capable of engaging the anvil when the anvil is in the closed position as the axially moveable firing member moves from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position. The surgical stapling device also includes means for increasing the jaw hole distance between the distal-most staple in the surgical staple cartridge and a corresponding one of the staple-forming recesses in the anvil while simultaneously axially The joint distance between the axis of articulation and the distal end of the anvil engagement feature on the axially movable firing member is minimized when the movable firing member is in the most proximal position.

Embodiment 63 - The surgical stapling device of embodiment 62, wherein the means for augmentation includes a closure member configured to impart a closing movement to the anvil, wherein the closure member is capable of applying a closing movement corresponding to The second end effector jaw moves axially between a starting position of the fully open position and an end position corresponding to the fully closed position of the anvil. When the closure member is in the home position and the axially moveable firing member is in the most proximal position, the distal end of the closure member is distally spaced apart from the distal end of the anvil engagement feature by a horizontal distance that The distance is in the range of 0.4 inches to 0.9 inches.

Embodiment 64 - The surgical suturing device of embodiment 63, wherein the horizontal distance is measured along a horizontal line parallel to or coincident with the shaft axis.

Embodiment 65 - The surgical stapling device of embodiment 62, 63, or 64, wherein the closure member includes an axially moveable distal closure tube segment, the distal closure tube segment includes a closure cam surface configured To cammingly engage a cam surface on the anvil as the axially moveable distal closure tube segment moves from the starting position to the ending position.

Embodiment 66 - The surgical stapling device of embodiment 62, 63, 64, or 65, wherein the surgical fastener cartridge is removably supported in the elongated channel operable through the articulation joint ground to the elongated shaft assembly.

Embodiment 67 - The surgical stapling device of embodiment 66, wherein the anvil includes an anvil body and an anvil mounting portion including an anvil cam surface and a pair of laterally extending anvil trunnions. , these anvil trunnions are configured to be pivotably supported in corresponding openings in the elongated channel.

Embodiment 68 - The surgical stapling device of embodiment 63, 64, 65, 66, or 67, wherein the elongate shaft assembly includes an axially movable proximal closure tube assembly, and wherein the closure member includes an axially movable a distal closure tube segment operatively coupled to an axially movable proximal closure tube assembly.

Embodiment 69 - The surgical stapling device of embodiment 68, wherein the axially moveable distal closure segment includes a closure cam surface configured to enable closure of the axially moveable distal closure segment Cammingly engages an anvil cam surface on the anvil when moving from the starting position to the ending position.

Embodiment 70 - The surgical stapling device of embodiment 68 or 69, wherein the elongated shaft assembly includes a ridge assembly operatively coupled to the elongated channel and movably supporting the proximal side thereon At least a portion of the closure tube assembly is closed, and wherein the proximal closure tube assembly is operably interfaced with a closure system configured to selectively impart axial closing and opening movements to the proximal closure tube assembly.

Embodiment 71 - The surgical stapling device of embodiment 70, wherein the closure system is supported by the handheld housing.

Embodiment 72 - The surgical stapling device of embodiment 70, wherein the closure system is supported by a housing operably interfaced with a robotically controlled actuator.

Embodiment 73 - A surgical instrument comprising an elongated shaft assembly having an elongated channel coupled to the elongated shaft assembly, the elongated channel being configured to operably support the elongated shaft assembly. Surgical fastener bin in long aisle. The anvil is pivotally coupled to the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel about a fixed jaw pivot axis relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The closure member is configured to impart a closing movement to the anvil to move the anvil between a fully open position and a fully closed position as the closure member moves from the starting position to the end position. The surgical instrument also includes an axially movable firing member having at least one anvil engagement feature on the axially movable firing member, the at least one anvil engagement feature configured To be able to impart additional closing motion to the anvil as the axially moveable firing member moves from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position within the elongated channel. The distal end of the closure member is distal to the distal end of the anvil engagement feature when the closure member is in the home position and the axially moveable firing member is in the most proximal position.

Embodiment 74 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 73, wherein the distal end of the closure member engages the anvil feature when the closure member is in the home position and the axially moveable firing member is in the most proximal position. The distal ends of the structures are distally spaced apart a horizontal distance in the range of 0.4 inches to 0.9 inches.

Embodiment 75 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 74, wherein the elongate shaft assembly defines a shaft axis, and wherein the horizontal distance is measured along a horizontal line parallel to or coincident with the shaft axis.

Embodiment 76 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 73, 74, or 75, wherein the closure member includes an axially moveable distal closure segment, the distal closure segment including a closure cam surface configured to An anvil cam surface on the anvil is capable of camming engagement as the axially moveable distal closure tube segment moves from the starting position to the ending position.

Embodiment 77 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 76, wherein the elongated shaft assembly includes a spine assembly operably coupled to the elongated channel. The proximal closure tube assembly is movably supported for axial travel relative to the spine assembly and is pivotally coupled to the axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Embodiment 78 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 77, wherein the proximal closure tube assembly is operably interfaced with a closure system configured to selectively apply axial closure to the proximal closure tube assembly and open movement.

Embodiment 79 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 78, wherein the closure system is supported by the handheld housing.

Embodiment 80 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 78, wherein the closure system is supported by a housing operably interfaced with a robotically controlled actuator.

Embodiment 81 - A surgical system including a housing operative to support a closure system. The surgical system also includes an interchangeable surgical tool assembly including an elongated shaft assembly operably and removably coupled to the housing such that the elongated shaft assembly The proximal closure portion is configured to receive axial closure movement from the closure system. The elongated shaft assembly defines a shaft axis. The surgical tool assembly also includes a surgical end effector operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly for selective articulation relative to the elongated shaft assembly about an axis of articulation transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector includes an elongated channel coupled to an elongated shaft assembly and configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge in the elongated channel. The anvil is coupled to the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position about a jaw pivot axis transverse to the shaft axis. The elongate shaft assembly includes a distal closure member operatively coupled to the proximal closure portion and configured to apply closure to the anvil as the distal closure member moves from a starting position to an ending position. Movement to move the anvil between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The axially movable firing member includes at least one anvil engagement feature configured to move with the axially movable firing member from a proximal-most position to a position within the elongated channel. distal position to apply additional closing movement to the anvil. The distal end of the distal closure member is distal to the distal end of the anvil engagement feature when the distal closure member is in the home position and the axially moveable firing member is in the most proximal position.

Embodiment 82 - A surgical instrument comprising a surgical end effector including a first jaw defining a first tissue contacting surface and a jaw pivotally coupled to the first jaw. Second jaw. The second jaw is selectively movable about a fixed jaw pivot axis between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The second jaw includes a second tissue contacting surface facing the first tissue contacting surface. At least one tissue-locating feature is on the second jaw and extends downwardly beyond the second tissue-contacting surface and is configured to prevent receipt on the first tissue-contacting surface when the second jaw is in the fully closed position. Tissue between the second tissue contacting surface extends proximally beyond the distal end portion of the at least one tissue locating feature. When the second jaw is in the fully open position, the distal end portion of each tissue locating feature is positioned relative to a corresponding portion of the first tissue contacting surface to prevent gaps therebetween. When the second jaw is in the fully open position, the jaw hole angle between the first tissue contact surface and the second tissue contact surface is greater than 12.25 degrees.

Embodiment 83 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 82, wherein the distal end portion of each tissue locating feature is located pivotably away from the fixed jaw when the second jaw is in the fully closed position. Axis less than 0.750 inches apart.

Embodiment 84 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 82 or 83, wherein the first jaw includes an elongated channel configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge in the elongated channel. , and wherein the first tissue contacting surface includes a platform surface of the surgical fastener cartridge.

Embodiment 85 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 82, 83, or 84, wherein the second jaw includes an anvil, and wherein the second tissue contacting surface includes a fastener forming a portion of a lower surface of the anvil.

Embodiment 86 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 85, wherein the anvil includes an anvil body portion, and wherein at least one tissue locating feature is formed on a proximal portion of the anvil body portion.

Embodiment 87 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 82, 83, 84, 85 or 86, wherein the surgical end effector is sized to pass through when the second jaw is in the fully closed position. Trocar cannulation.

Embodiment 88 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 82, 83, 84, 85, 86 or 87, further comprising means for imparting closing and opening movements to the second jaw.

Embodiment 89 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 88, wherein the means for imparting closing and opening motion comprises an axially movable closure tube. The closure tube includes a closing cam surface on a distal end of the closure tube configured to cammingly engage a jaw cam surface on the second jaw to impart a closing movement thereto, and at least one jaw The mouth opening feature is configured to impart jaw opening motion to the second jaw as the axially movable closure tube moves in the proximal direction.

Embodiment 90 - A surgical instrument including a surgical end effector including a surgical fastener cartridge including a cartridge body operably supporting the Multiple surgical fasteners in the cartridge body. The cartridge body defines a tissue contacting surface through which surgical fasteners are projected. The anvil is pivotably supported relative to the surgical fastener cartridge for selective pivotal travel about a fixed jaw pivot axis relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The anvil includes an anvil body defining a fastener forming surface that includes a plurality of fastener forming formations, wherein each fastener forming formation corresponds to a surgical fastener forming formation in the surgical fastener cartridge. fastener. The fastener forming surface faces the tissue contacting surface on the surgical fastener cartridge. At least one tissue stop projects from the anvil body and extends downwardly beyond the fastener forming surface and is configured to prevent receipt between the tissue contacting surface and the fastener forming surface when the anvil is in the fully closed position. The tissue extends proximally beyond the distal end portion of the tissue stop. The distal end portion of each tissue stop is spaced from the fixed jaw pivot axis by an axial distance of less than 0.750 inches when the anvil is in the fully closed position, and wherein when the anvil is in the fully open position, the surgical The vertical distance between a distal-most fastener in the bin and a corresponding fastener forming formation on the fastener forming surface is at least 0.900 inches.

Embodiment 91 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 90, wherein the jaw hole angle between the fastener forming surface and the tissue contacting surface is greater than 12.25 degrees when the anvil is in the fully open position.

Embodiment 92 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 90 or 91, wherein the surgical end effector is sized to pass through a trocar cannula when the anvil is in the fully closed position.

Embodiment 93 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 90, 91 or 92, further comprising means for imparting closing and opening motion to the anvil.

Embodiment 94 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 93, wherein the means for imparting closing and opening motion comprises an axially movable closure tube. The axially movable closure tube includes a closure cam surface on a distal end of the axially movable closure tube, the closure cam surface being configured to cammingly engage an anvil cam surface on the anvil to cam the anvil to the anvil. It exerts a closing movement. At least one jaw opening feature is configured to impart jaw opening motion to the anvil as the axially moveable closure tube moves in the proximal direction.

Embodiment 95 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 90, 91, 92, 93, or 94, wherein the surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly defining the shaft axis.

Embodiment 96 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 95, wherein the tissue contacting surface of the cartridge body is parallel to the shaft axis, and wherein the vertical distance is along the distance from the distal-most fastener and the corresponding fastener shaped formation. Measured along a line extending and perpendicular to the axis of the shaft.

Embodiment 97 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, or 96, wherein the distal end portion of each tissue stop is opposed when the anvil is in the fully open position. Position corresponding parts of the tissue contact surface to prevent gaps between them.

Embodiment 98 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 97, wherein when the anvil is in the fully open position, a portion of each tissue stop is flush with or extends below the tissue contacting surface to prevent tissue contacting the surface The tissue above extends proximally past the tissue stop.

Embodiment 99 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, or 98, wherein when the anvil is in the fully open position, a portion of each tissue stop is in contact with The tissue contact surface is flush with or extends below the tissue contact surface to prevent tissue on the tissue contact surface from extending proximally past the tissue stop.

Embodiment 100 - A surgical system including a housing operative to support a closure system. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly includes an elongated shaft assembly operably and removably coupled to the housing such that a proximal closure portion of the elongated shaft assembly is configured to receive the shaft from the closure system Movement toward closure and defines the shaft axis. The surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly for selective articulation relative to the elongated shaft assembly about an articulation axis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector includes a surgical fastener cartridge including a cartridge body that operably supports a plurality of surgical fasteners in the cartridge body and defines a tissue contacting surface through which the surgical fasteners pass. is ejected through tissue contact surfaces. The anvil is pivotably supported relative to the surgical fastener cartridge for selective pivotal travel about a fixed jaw pivot axis relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The anvil includes an anvil body defining a fastener forming surface that includes a plurality of fastener forming formations, wherein each fastener forming formation corresponds to a surgical fastener forming formation in the surgical fastener cartridge. fastener. The fastener forming surface faces the tissue contacting surface on the surgical fastener cartridge. At least one tissue stop projects from the anvil body and extends downwardly beyond the fastener forming surface and is configured to prevent receipt between the tissue contacting surface and the fastener forming surface when the anvil is in the fully closed position. The tissue extends proximally beyond the distal end portion of the at least one tissue stop. The distal end portion of each tissue stop is spaced from the fixed jaw pivot axis by an axial distance of less than 0.750 inches when the anvil is in the fully closed position, and wherein when the anvil is in the fully open position, the surgical The vertical distance between a distal-most fastener in the bin and a corresponding fastener forming formation on the fastener forming surface is at least 0.900 inches.

Embodiment 101 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 100, wherein the jaw hole angle between the fastener forming surface and the tissue contacting surface is greater than 12.25 degrees when the anvil is in the fully open position.

Embodiment 102 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 100 or 101, wherein the surgical end effector is sized to pass through the trocar cannula when the anvil is in the fully closed position.

Embodiment 103 - A surgical instrument comprising a first jaw including a pair of laterally aligned vertical slots formed in a proximal end portion of the first jaw . Each vertical slot has an open upper end. The second jaw is movably supported for selective pivotal travel relative to the first jaw between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The second jaw includes a second jaw body and a pair of pivot members projecting laterally from a proximal end of the second jaw body. Each pivot member is pivotally received in a corresponding one of the vertical slots in the first jaw such that the pivot member is pivotable therein to facilitate the second jaw relative to the first jaw Pivot travel. The surgical instrument also includes a retainer member configured to operably engage the proximal end portion of the first jaw and when the second jaw is in the fully open position and the fully closed The pivot members are retained in corresponding vertical slots during movement between positions. The axially moveable closing member is configured to impart closing and opening movements to the second jaw and maintain the retainer member in retaining engagement with the proximal end portion of the first jaw.

Embodiment 104 - The surgical instrument of Embodiment 103, wherein each pivot member has a circular cross-sectional shape, and wherein the retainer member includes a slot cap corresponding to each vertical The slot is sized to extend therethrough through the open end. Each slot cap has an arcuate bottom portion configured to pivotably receive a corresponding pivot pin therein.

Embodiment 105 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 103, wherein each vertical slot is formed in a corresponding upright vertical wall portion of the first jaw, and wherein the retainer member includes a retainer body, the The lower part of the holder body is set to span between the vertical wall sections. The retainer member also includes a slot cap corresponding to each vertical slot and sized to extend therethrough through the open end. A mounting formation is located on the holder body and corresponding to each of the upstanding vertical wall portions and is configured to be disposed within a correspondingly shaped mounting opening therein.

Embodiment 106 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 105, wherein the mounting formation is positioned proximate the slot cap.

Embodiment 107 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 103, 104, 105, or 106, wherein the axially moveable closure member includes an axially moveable distal closure segment, the axially moveable distal closure segment is sized to slidably move onto the retainer member to provide opening and closing motion to the second jaw and to retain the retainer member in contact with the proximal end of the first jaw Partially remains engaged.

Embodiment 108 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 107, wherein the first jaw is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly.

Embodiment 109 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 108, wherein the elongate shaft assembly includes a spine assembly operatively coupled to the first jaw. The proximal closure tube assembly is movably supported for axial travel relative to the spine assembly and is pivotally coupled to the axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Embodiment 110 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 109, wherein the proximal closure tube assembly is operably interfaced with a closure system configured to selectively apply axial closure to the proximal closure tube assembly and open movement.

Embodiment 111 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 110, wherein the closure system is supported by the handheld housing.

Embodiment 112 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 110, wherein the closure system is supported by a housing operably interfaced with a robotically controlled actuator.

Embodiment 113 - A surgical instrument comprising an elongated channel configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge within the elongated channel. The elongated channel includes a pair of laterally aligned vertical slots formed in a proximal end portion of the elongated channel, wherein each vertical slot includes an open upper end. The anvil is movably supported for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The anvil includes an anvil body and a pair of anvil trunnions laterally protruding from an anvil mounting portion of the anvil body. Each anvil trunnion is pivotally received in a corresponding vertical slot in the elongated channel such that the anvil trunnion is pivotable therein to facilitate pivotal travel of the anvil relative to the elongated channel. The surgical instrument also includes a retainer member configured to be supported on the proximal end portion of the elongated channel and to hold each anvil as the anvil moves between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The trunnions are pivotably retained in corresponding vertical slots. The axially moveable closure member is configured to impart closing and opening movements to the anvil and maintain the retainer member in retaining engagement with the proximal end portion of the elongated channel.

Embodiment 114: - The surgical instrument of embodiment 113, wherein each anvil trunnion includes a circular cross-sectional shape, and wherein the retainer member includes a slot cap corresponding to each A vertical slot is sized to extend therethrough through the open end. Each slot cap has an arcuate bottom portion configured to pivotally receive a corresponding anvil trunnion therein.

Embodiment 115 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 113, wherein each vertical slot is formed in a corresponding upright vertical wall portion of the elongated channel, and wherein the retainer member includes a retainer body, the retainer body The bottom of the vessel body is configured to straddle between the vertical wall sections. The retainer member also includes a slot cap corresponding to each vertical slot and sized to extend therethrough through the open end. The retainer member also includes a mounting formation on the retainer body corresponding to each of the upstanding vertical wall portions and configured to be received in a correspondingly shaped mounting opening therein.

Embodiment 116 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 115, wherein the slot cap has a wedge shape configured to be inserted into the open end of the corresponding vertical slot.

Embodiment 117 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 113, 114, 115, or 116, wherein the retainer member is attached to the elongated channel by at least one of friction engagement with the elongated channel, adhesive, and welding .

Embodiment 118 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 113, 114, 115, 116, or 117, wherein the axially movable closure member includes an axially movable distal closure segment, the axially movable distal The closure tube segment is sized to slidably move onto the retainer member to provide opening and closing motion to the anvil and to maintain the retainer member in retaining engagement with the proximal end portion of the elongated channel.

Embodiment 119 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, or 118, wherein the elongated channel is operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly.

Embodiment 120 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 119, wherein the elongate shaft assembly includes a spine assembly operatively coupled to the elongate channel and movably supported for axial travel and pivotability relative to the spine assembly. A proximal closure tube assembly is rotationally coupled to the axially moveable closure member.

Embodiment 121 - A surgical system including a housing operatively supporting a closure system. The surgical system also includes an interchangeable surgical tool assembly including an elongated shaft assembly operably and removably coupled to the housing such that the elongated shaft assembly The proximal closure portion is configured to receive axial closure movement from the closure system. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly also includes a surgical end effector including an elongated channel configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge in the elongated channel and including A pair of laterally aligned vertical slots are formed in the proximal end portion of the elongated channel. Each vertical slot includes an open upper end. The anvil is movably supported for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The anvil includes an anvil body and a pair of anvil trunnions laterally protruding from an anvil mounting portion of the anvil body. Each anvil trunnion is pivotally received in a corresponding vertical slot in the elongated channel such that the anvil trunnion is pivotable therein to facilitate pivotal travel of the anvil relative to the elongated channel. The surgical system also includes a retainer member configured to be supported on the proximal end portion of the elongated channel and to hold each anvil as the anvil moves between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The trunnions are pivotably retained in corresponding vertical slots. The axially moveable closure member is configured to impart closing and opening movements to the anvil and maintain the retainer member in retaining engagement with the proximal end portion of the elongated channel.

Embodiment 122 - The surgical system of embodiment 121, wherein the axially moveable closure member includes an axially moveable distal closure segment sized to Slideably moves onto the retainer member to provide opening and closing movement to the anvil and to maintain the retainer member in retaining engagement with the proximal end portion of the elongated channel. The elongated shaft assembly also includes a spine assembly operatively coupled to the elongated channel; and a proximal closure tube assembly movably supported for axial travel relative to the spine assembly and Pivotably coupled to an axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Embodiment 123 - A surgical instrument comprising a first jaw and a second jaw, the second jaw coupled to the first jaw to be in a fully open position and fully open relative to the first jaw. Selective pivot travel between closed positions. The axially moveable closing member is selectively axially moveable in a closing direction to move the second jaw from a fully open position to a fully closed position, and selectively axially moveable in an axial opening direction to move the second jaw from a fully open position to a fully closed position. Move the second jaw from the fully closed position to the fully open position. The axially moveable closure member includes a first jaw opening feature configured to impart a first jaw opening movement to the second jaw. The second jaw opening feature is axially spaced apart from the first jaw opening feature such that when the closure member moves in the axial opening direction, the first jaw opening feature applies the first jaw to the second jaw opening movement, and when the closure member moves axially a predetermined axial distance in the axial opening direction, the first jaw opening feature ceases exerting the first jaw opening movement and the second jaw opening feature opens toward the second jaw. The mouth applies a second jaw opening motion to move the second jaw to the fully open position.

Embodiment 124 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 123, wherein the first jaw opening feature is axially proximate the second jaw opening feature.

Embodiment 125 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 123 or 124, wherein the first jaw defines a central jaw axis, and wherein the first jaw opening feature on the closure member on a first side thereof is aligned with the central jaw axis. The jaw axis is axially spaced, and wherein the second jaw opening feature is spaced from the central jaw axis on a second side of the closure member opposite the first side.

Embodiment 126 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 123, 124, or 125, wherein the second jaw includes a second jaw mounting portion pivotally supported on the first jaw. The second jaw mounting portion includes a second jaw cam surface on the second jaw mounting portion and is configured to be axially moveable through a predetermined opening in the axial opening direction of the closing member. axially cammed by the first jaw opening feature at an axial distance. The second jaw cam surface is configured to disengage the first jaw opening feature as the closure member continues to move in the axial opening direction beyond a predetermined axial distance. The second jaw mounting portion also includes a second jaw cam surface configured to be opened by the second jaw when the closure member continues to move in the axial opening direction beyond a predetermined axial distance. Features structure cam contacts axially.

Embodiment 127 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 126, wherein the closure member is axially moveable in the axial opening direction from a first position corresponding to a fully closed position of the second jaw to the first intermediate axis to the position without applying this first jaw opening movement to it.

Embodiment 128 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 127, wherein when the closure member axially moves in the axial opening direction from the first intermediate axial position to a second intermediate axial position, the first The jaw opening feature imparts the first jaw opening motion to the second jaw such that the second jaw moves through a second jaw hole angle relative to the first jaw.

Embodiment 129 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 128, wherein the second jaw hole angle is 10°.

Embodiment 130 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 128 or 129, wherein when the closure member is axially moved in the axial opening direction between the second intermediate axial position and a third intermediate axial position , the first jaw opening feature does not cause the second jaw to move relative to the first jaw beyond the second jaw hole angle.

Embodiment 131 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 130, wherein axial movement of the closure member in the axial opening direction from the third intermediate axial position to a fourth intermediate axial position causes the second jaw The opening feature imparts the second jaw opening motion to the second jaw.

Embodiment 132 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 131, wherein axial movement of the closure member in the axial opening direction between the third intermediate axial position and the fourth intermediate axial position causes the third intermediate axial position. The two jaws move to a second jaw hole angle relative to the first jaw.

Embodiment 133 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 132, wherein the second jaw hole angle is 22°.

Embodiment 134 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 131, 132 or 133, wherein axial movement of the closure member in the axial opening direction from the third intermediate axial position to the fourth intermediate axial position causes the The first jaw opening feature ceases applying the first jaw opening motion to the second jaw.

Embodiment 135 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 134, wherein axial movement of the closure member in the axial opening direction from the fourth intermediate axial position to a final axial position causes the second jaw opening feature The structure stops imparting this second jaw opening motion to the second jaw.

Embodiment 136 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, or 135, wherein the first jaw includes a surgical fastener cartridge , and wherein the second jaw includes an anvil.

Embodiment 137 - A surgical instrument comprising an elongated channel configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge within the elongated channel. The anvil is pivotally supported on the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The axially moveable closure member is selectively axially moveable in a closing direction to move the anvil from a fully open position to a fully closed position and in an axially opening direction to move the anvil The seat moves from the fully closed position to the fully open position. The axially moveable closure member includes a proximal jaw opening feature configured to impart a first jaw opening motion to the anvil. The distal jaw opening feature is axially spaced from the proximal jaw opening feature such that the proximal jaw opening feature imparts a first jaw opening motion to the anvil when the closure member moves in the axial opening direction , and when the closure member moves axially a predetermined axial distance in the axial opening direction, the proximal jaw opening feature ceases to exert a first jaw opening movement and the distal jaw opening feature exerts a second jaw opening movement toward the anvil. Jaw opening movement to move the anvil to the fully open position.

Embodiment 138 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 137, wherein when the closure member axially moves in the axial opening direction from a first intermediate axial position to a second intermediate axial position, the first jaw The mouth opening feature causes the anvil to move through a first jaw hole measured between the platform surface of the surgical fastener cartridge supported in the elongated channel and the fasteners forming the underside of the anvil. angle.

Embodiment 139 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 138, wherein the first jaw hole angle is 10°.

Embodiment 140 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 138 or 139, wherein when the closure member is axially moved in the axial opening direction between the second intermediate axial position and the third intermediate axial position, the first The jaw opening feature prevents movement of the anvil relative to the elongated channel beyond the first jaw hole angle.

Embodiment 141 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 140, wherein axial movement of the closure member in the axial opening direction from the third intermediate axial position to the fourth intermediate axial position causes the second jaw opening feature Structure causes the anvil to move through a second jaw hole angle that is greater than the first jaw hole angle.

Embodiment 142 - A surgical instrument comprising an elongated channel configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge within the elongated channel. The anvil is pivotally supported on the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The axially movable distal closure tube segment is selectively axially movable in a closing direction to move the anvil from a fully open position to a fully closed position, and selectively axially movable in an axially opening direction to move the anvil from a fully open position to a fully closed position. Move the anvil from the fully closed position to the fully open position. The axially moveable distal closure tube section includes a proximal jaw opening feature formed on the distal closure tube section and configured to impart a first jaw opening movement to the anvil. The distal jaw opening feature is formed on the distal closure tube segment and is axially spaced from the proximal jaw opening feature such that when the distal closure tube segment moves in the axial opening direction, the proximal jaw opening feature A first jaw opening movement is applied to the anvil, and when the distal closure tube segment moves axially a predetermined axial distance in the opening direction, the proximal jaw opening feature ceases applying the first jaw opening movement and the distal jaw The mouth opening feature applies a second jaw opening motion to the anvil to move the anvil to the fully open position.

Embodiment 143 - A surgical instrument comprising a first jaw and a second jaw, the second jaw coupled to the first jaw to be in a fully open position and fully open relative to the first jaw. Selective pivot travel between closed positions. The closing member is configured to be capable of moving as the closing member is axially movable in the distal direction from an initial position corresponding to a fully open position of the second jaw to an end position corresponding to a fully closed position of the second jaw. A closing movement is applied to the second jaw. The closing member is further configured to move distally from the starting position an initial predetermined axial closing distance before imparting closing movement to the second jaw.

Embodiment 144 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 143, wherein the initial predetermined axial closure distance is 0.020 inches.

Embodiment 145 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 143 or 144, wherein the closure member is configured to move distally through the final predetermined axial closure distance after the second jaw has moved to the fully closed position.

Embodiment 146 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 145, wherein the final predetermined axial closure distance is 0.040 inches.

Embodiment 147 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 143, 144, 145 or 146, wherein the closure member includes a closure cam surface configured to cammingly engage a jaw cam surface on the second jaw to apply a closing motion to it.

Embodiment 148 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 143, 144, 145, 146 or 147, wherein the closure member further includes means for axially moving the closure member in a proximal direction from the end position to the start position. A device for imparting an opening movement to the second jaw when in position.

Embodiment 149 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 148, wherein the means for imparting an opening motion includes a first jaw opening feature on the closure member, the first jaw opening feature configured to A first amount of jaw opening movement can be imparted to the second jaw as the closure member moves axially from the end position to an intermediate axial position between the end position and the start position. The device also includes a second jaw opening feature on the closure member, the second jaw opening feature being axially spaced from the first jaw opening feature and configured to follow the closure member. Axial movement from the intermediate position to the home position imparts a second amount of jaw opening movement to the second jaw.

Embodiment 150 - A surgical instrument comprising an elongated channel configured to operably support a surgical staple/fastener cartridge within the elongated channel. The anvil is pivotally supported on the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The closure member is configured to apply closure to the anvil as the closure member is axially movable in the distal direction from an initial position corresponding to a fully open position of the anvil to an end position corresponding to a fully closed position of the anvil. sports. The closure member is configured to move distally from the starting position an initial predetermined axial closure distance before imparting closure movement to the anvil.

Embodiment 151 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 150, wherein the initial predetermined axial closure distance is 0.020 inches.

Embodiment 152 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 150 or 151, wherein the closure member is configured to move distally through a final predetermined axial closure distance after the anvil has moved to the fully closed position.

Embodiment 153 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 152, wherein the final predetermined axial closure distance is 0.040 inches.

Embodiment 154 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 152 or 153, wherein the closure member is configured to: after the closure member travels the initial predetermined axial closure distance and before travels the final predetermined axial closure distance, The closing movement is imparted to the anvil as the closing member moves distally through an intermediate predetermined axial closing distance.

Embodiment 155 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 154, wherein the intermediate predetermined axial closure distance is 0.200 inches.

Embodiment 156 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, or 155, wherein the closure member includes a closure cam surface configured to cammingly engage the anvil of the anvil. Mount the anvil cam surface on the section to impart a closing movement to it.

Embodiment 157 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156 or 157, wherein the closure member further includes means for pivoting the closure member in a proximal direction from the end position. Means for imparting an opening motion to the anvil when moved to the starting position.

Embodiment 158 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 157, wherein the means for imparting an opening motion includes a first jaw opening feature on the closure member, the first jaw opening feature configured to A first amount of jaw opening movement can be imparted to the anvil as the closure member moves axially from the end position to an intermediate axial position between the end position and the start position. The device also includes a second jaw opening feature on the closure member, the second jaw opening feature being axially spaced from the first jaw opening feature and configured to follow the closure member. Axial movement from the intermediate axial position to the home position imparts a second amount of jaw opening motion to the anvil.

Embodiment 159 - A surgical system including a housing operatively supporting a closure system. The surgical system also includes an interchangeable surgical tool assembly including an elongated shaft assembly operably and removably coupled to the housing such that the elongated shaft assembly The proximal closure portion is configured to receive axial closure movement from the closure system. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly also includes a surgical end effector operably coupled to the elongated shaft assembly. The surgical end effector includes an elongated channel coupled to an elongated shaft assembly and configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge in the elongated channel. The anvil is coupled to the elongated channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongated channel between a fully open position and a fully closed position. The elongate shaft assembly includes an axially movable proximal closure member configured to receive axial closure movement. The distal closure member is operably coupled to the proximal closure member and is configured such that the distal closure member is axially moveable in a distal direction from a starting position corresponding to a fully open position of the anvil to a position corresponding to the anvil. The end position of the fully closed position of the seat exerts an axial closing movement on the anvil. The distal closure member is configured to move distally from the starting position an initial predetermined axial closure distance before imparting closure movement to the anvil.

Embodiment 160 - The surgical instrument of embodiment 159, wherein the distal closure member is configured to move distally through a final predetermined axial closure distance after the anvil has moved to the fully closed position.

Embodiment 161 - A surgical tool assembly including a first jaw and a second jaw movable relative to the first jaw. The surgical tool assembly also includes a firing system including a firing member assembly configured to move distally from a starting position when firing motion is applied thereto. The firing member assembly includes a first firing member element and a second firing member element pivotally coupled to the first firing member element at an attachment joint. The second firing member element is configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position in which the second firing member element lockingly engages the latching portion of the first jaw to prevent assembly of the firing member Moving distally from the starting position when the firing motion is applied to the firing member assembly, in the unlocked position, the firing member assembly is capable of moving distally from the starting position when the firing motion is applied to the firing member assembly. The position is advanced toward the far side. The surgical tool assembly also includes means for preventing an unlocking load from being applied to the attachment joint when the second firing member is in the locked position and applies a firing motion to the first firing member element.

Embodiment 162 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 161, wherein the latching portion includes at least one latching notch in the first jaw, the at least one latching notch configured to enable the second firing member element to be The second firing member element remains engaged in the locked position.

Embodiment 163 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 161 or 162, further comprising a biasing member in the first jaw, the biasing member configured to bias the second firing member element. Press into the locked position.

Embodiment 164 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 161, 162, or 163, wherein the first firing member element includes: at least one first jaw engagement feature configured to be removably received within the corresponding first jaw channel; and at least one second jaw engagement feature configured to be removably received within the corresponding second jaw channel. inside the jaw channel.

Embodiment 165 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 164, wherein, regardless of the position of the second firing member element, when the firing member assembly is in the starting position, each first jaw engagement feature is associated with The corresponding first jaw channel is axially aligned, and each second jaw engagement feature is axially aligned with the corresponding second jaw channel.

Embodiment 166 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 165, wherein when the firing member assembly is in the home position and the second firing member element is in the locked position, each first jaw engagement feature is The corresponding first jaw channel is axially aligned, and each of the second jaw engagement features is axially aligned with the corresponding second jaw channel.

Embodiment 167 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, or 166, wherein the first jaw is configured to operably support a removable surgical component therein, the removable surgical component being The surgical component is operably supported therein with movable component elements. The movable part element is moveable between an unfired position and a fired position. The second firing member element is configured to be moveable by the movable component element from the locked position when the removable surgical component is supported in the first jaw and the movable component element is in the unfired position.

Embodiment 168 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, or 167, wherein the first jaw is operatively coupled to the elongated shaft defining a shaft axis, and wherein the first jaw The second firing member element is pivotable relative to the first firing member element about a pivot axis transverse to the shaft axis.

Embodiment 169 - The surgical tool assembly of claim embodiment 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, or 168, wherein the first firing member element includes a tissue cutting surface.

Embodiment 170 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 168, or 169, wherein the first jaw is configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge. The cartridge operably supports the slider in the surgical staple cartridge. The slide is movable between an unfired position and a fired position. The second firing member element is configured to be moveable by the slide from the locked position when the surgical staple cartridge is supported in the first jaw and the slide is in the unfired position.

Embodiment 171 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, or 170, wherein the means for preventing includes a distal portion on the first firing member element surface and latching surface. The distal surface is configured to be configurable relative to the proximal surface on the second firing member element such that a space is provided between the distal surface and the proximal surface when the second firing member is in the unlocked position. The proximal surface abuts the latching surface when the second firing member element is in the locked position.

Embodiment 172 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, or 171, wherein the attachment joint includes at least one pivot member, the at least one A pivot member is on the second firing member element and is pivotally received in a corresponding pivot hole in the first firing member element.

Embodiment 173 - The surgical tool assembly of embodiment 172, further comprising a gap between each pivot member and its corresponding pivot hole such that when the second firing member is in the locked position and When the firing motion is applied to the first firing member element, the unlocking load is not transferred to the at least one pivot member.

Embodiment 174 - A suturing assembly including an anvil jaw and a cartridge jaw including a latching surface. The firing member includes a distal end that includes an anvil cam portion and a channel cam portion. The firing member also includes a distal edge that includes a cutting member and a latching force receiving surface. The latching member is pivotally coupled to the distal end of the firing member by at least one pivot member. The latching member is configured to engage a latching surface of the cartridge jaw to block the firing member when a cartridge is not installed within the cartridge jaw or when a partially used cartridge is installed within the cartridge jaw and a firing motion is imparted to the firing member advancement. The firing member and the latching member are configured to prevent an unlocking load from being applied to the pivot member when the latching member engages the latching surface and imparts a firing motion to the firing member.

Embodiment 175 - The suturing assembly of embodiment 174, wherein the cartridge jaw includes a cartridge including a slide movable between an unfired position and a fired position. The slider is configured to engage the latching member to prevent movement of the latching member relative to the firing member to engage the latching surface when the slider is in the unfired position.

Embodiment 176 - The suturing assembly of embodiment 174 or 175, further comprising a spring configured to move the latching member relative to the staple cartridge when a partially used staple cartridge is present and when the staple cartridge is not present. The firing member is biased into a locked configuration.

Embodiment 177 - The suturing assembly of embodiment 174, 175, or 176, wherein the firing member is configured not to move substantially vertically.

Embodiment 178 - A surgical fastening instrument comprising a first jaw configured to operably support an unfired surgical fastener cartridge in the first jaw. The anvil is movably supported relative to the first jaw. The surgical fastening instrument also includes a firing system including a firing member assembly configured to be axially moveable between a starting position and an ending position. The firing member assembly includes a firing member including a cutting surface and a tiltable element pivotally coupled to the firing member via an attachment joint. The tiltable element is configured to be movable relative to the firing member between a locked position and an unlocked position in which the tiltable element is in locking engagement with the latching portion of the first jaw to prevent assembly of the firing member. In the unlocked position, the firing member assembly is capable of moving distally from the starting position when the firing motion is applied to the firing member assembly. Push toward the far side. The firing member and tiltable element are configured to prevent an unlocking load from being applied to the attachment joint when the tiltable element is in the locked position and imparts a firing motion to the firing member assembly. The surgical fastening instrument also includes means for biasing the tiltable element into the locking engagement unless an unfired surgical fastener cartridge is operatively supported in the first jaw.

Embodiment 179 - The surgical fastening instrument of embodiment 178, wherein the attachment joint includes at least one pivot member on the tiltable element and pivotally received on the firing member. into the corresponding pivot hole in the member.

Embodiment 180 - The surgical fastening instrument of embodiment 179, further comprising a gap between each pivot member and its corresponding pivot hole such that when the tiltable element is in the locked position And when the firing motion is applied to the firing member element, the unlocking load is not transferred to each pivot member.

Many of the surgical instrument systems described herein are actuated by electric motors; however, the surgical instrument systems described herein may be actuated in any suitable manner. In various examples, for example, the surgical instrument systems described herein may be actuated by a manually operated trigger. In some examples, the motors disclosed herein may comprise part or parts of a robotic control system. Additionally, any end effector and/or tool assembly disclosed herein may be used with robotic surgical instrument systems. For example, US Patent Application Serial No. 13/118,241 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS" (now US Patent 9,072,535) discloses several examples of robotic surgical instrument systems in greater detail.

The surgical instrument systems described herein have been described in conjunction with deployment and deformation of staples; however, embodiments described herein are not so limited. For example, various embodiments are contemplated that deploy fasteners other than nails, such as clamps or tacks. Additionally, various embodiments utilizing any suitable device for sealing tissue are also contemplated. For example, end effectors according to various embodiments may include electrodes configured to heat and seal tissue. Additionally, for example, end effectors according to certain embodiments may apply vibrational energy to seal tissue.

The entire disclosures of the following patents are hereby incorporated by reference:

U.S. Patent 5,403,312 entitled "ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE" published on April 4, 1995;

U.S. Patent 7,000,818 titled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVINGSEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" published on February 21, 2006;

U.S. Patent 7,422,139 titled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING ANDFASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK" published on September 9, 2008;

US Patent 7,464,849 titled "ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENTWITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS" was published on December 16, 2008;

US Patent 7,670,334 titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN ARTICULATINGEND EFFECTOR" was published on March 2, 2010;

U.S. Patent 7,753,245 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS" published on July 13, 2010;

U.S. Patent 8,393,514 titled "SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLEFASTENER CARTRIDGE" published on March 12, 2013;

U.S. patent application serial number 11/343,803 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES"; now U.S. Patent 7,845,537;

U.S. patent application serial number 12/031,573 titled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENTHAVING RF ELECTRODES" filed on February 14, 2008;

U.S. patent application serial number 12/031,873 titled "END EFFECTORS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING ANDSTAPLING INSTRUMENT" filed on February 15, 2008 (now U.S. Patent 7,980,443);

U.S. patent application serial number 12/235,782 titled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT" is now U.S. Patent 8,210,411;

U.S. patent application serial number 12/249,117 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM" is now U.S. Patent 8,608,045;

U.S. patent application serial number 12/647,100 titled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENTWITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ASSEMBLY" filed on December 24, 2009; now U.S. Patent 8,220,688;

U.S. patent application serial number 12/893,461 titled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE", filed on September 29, 2012, is now U.S. Patent 8,733,613;

U.S. patent application serial number 13/036,647 titled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT" filed on February 28, 2011, now U.S. Patent 8,561,870;

U.S. patent application serial number 13/118,241 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENTARRANGEMENTS", now U.S. Patent 9,072,535;

U.S. patent application serial number 13/524,049 titled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTCOMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE" filed on June 15, 2012; now U.S. Patent 9,101,358;

U.S. patent application serial number 13/800,025 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSORSYSTEM" filed on March 13, 2013, now U.S. Patent 9,345,481;

U.S. patent application serial number 13/800,067 titled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSORSYSTEM" filed on March 13, 2013, is now U.S. patent application publication 2014/0263552;

U.S. Patent Application Publication 2007/0175955 titled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENTWITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM" filed on January 31, 2006; and

U.S. patent application publication 2010/0264194 titled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH ANARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR" filed on April 22, 2010, is now U.S. Patent 8,308,040.

Although various devices have been described herein in connection with certain embodiments, many modifications and variations of these embodiments may be implemented. Particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, without limitation, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic shown or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined in whole or in part with features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments. Additionally, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may be used. Additionally, according to various embodiments, a single component may be replaced with multiple components, and multiple components may be replaced with a single component to perform a given function or functions. The above detailed description and the following claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations.

The devices disclosed herein may be designed to be discarded after a single use, or they may be designed for multiple uses. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned after at least one use. Repair may include any combination of steps including, but not limited to, disassembly of the device, subsequent cleaning or replacement of specific components of the device, and subsequent reassembly of the device. Specifically, the device may be disassembled by a repair facility and/or surgical team and, after cleaning and/or replacement of certain components of the device, the device may be reassembled for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the truing device can be disassembled, cleaned/replaced, and reassembled using a variety of techniques. The use of such techniques and the resulting repair devices are within the scope of this application.

The devices disclosed herein can be processed prior to surgery. First, new or used instruments are available and cleaned as needed. The instruments can then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrument may then be exposed to a radiation field that is penetrable to the container, such as gamma radiation, X-rays, and/or high-energy electrons. Radiation kills bacteria on instruments and in containers. Sterilized instruments can then be stored in sterile containers. Sealing the container keeps the device sterile until the container is opened in the medical facility. The device may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to beta radiation, gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, plasma peroxide, and/or steam.

While the invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles.

Any patent, publication or other published material incorporated herein by reference in whole or in part is incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements or other published material described herein. This article. Accordingly, and to the extent necessary, the disclosures expressly set forth herein supersede any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, purported to be incorporated herein by reference that conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material listed herein will not create a conflict only between the incorporated material and the existing disclosure material. Incorporated to the extent of conflict.

Claims (9)

1. A surgical instrument, comprising:

an elongate shaft assembly;

an elongate channel coupled to the elongate shaft assembly and configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge in the elongate channel;

an anvil pivotably coupled to the elongate channel for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongate channel about a fixed jaw pivot axis between a fully open position and a fully closed position;

A closure member configured to apply a closing motion to the anvil as the closure member moves from a starting position to an ending position to move the anvil between the fully open position and the fully closed position while the elongate channel remains stationary relative to the elongate shaft assembly; and

an axially movable firing member comprising at least one anvil engagement feature on the axially movable firing member configured to apply additional closing motion to the anvil as the axially movable firing member moves from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position within the elongate channel, and wherein a distal end of the closure member is distal to a distal end of the at least one anvil engagement feature when the closure member is in the starting position and the axially movable firing member is in the proximal-most position.

2. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the closure member is distally spaced from the distal end of the at least one anvil engagement feature by a distance in the range of 0.4 to 0.9 inches when the closure member is in the starting position and the axially movable firing member is in the proximal-most position.

3. The surgical instrument of claim 2 wherein said elongate shaft assembly defines a shaft axis and wherein said distance is measured along a line parallel or coincident with said shaft axis.

4. The surgical instrument of any one of claims 1-3 wherein the closure member comprises an axially movable distal closure tube segment comprising a closure cam surface configured to cam engage an anvil cam surface on the anvil when the axially movable distal closure tube segment is moved from the starting position to the ending position.

5. The surgical instrument of claim 4 wherein said elongate shaft assembly comprises:

a spine assembly operably coupled to the elongate channel; and

a proximal closure tube assembly movably supported for axial travel relative to the spine assembly and pivotally coupled to the axially movable distal closure tube segment.

6. The surgical instrument of claim 5, wherein the proximal closure tube assembly operably interfaces with a closure system configured to selectively apply an axial closing and opening motion to the proximal closure tube assembly.

7. The surgical instrument of claim 6, wherein the closure system is supported by a hand-held housing.

8. The surgical instrument of claim 6, wherein the closure system is supported by a housing operably interfacing with a robotically controlled actuator.

9. A surgical system, comprising:

a housing operable to support a closure system; and

an interchangeable surgical tool assembly comprising the surgical instrument of any of claims 1-8, wherein:

the elongate shaft assembly is operably and removably coupled to the housing such that a proximal closure portion of the elongate shaft assembly is configured to receive an axial closure motion from the closure system, the elongate shaft assembly defining a shaft axis; and

a surgical end effector operably coupled to the elongate shaft assembly for selective articulation relative thereto about an articulation axis transverse to the shaft axis;

wherein the jaw pivot axis is transverse to the shaft axis, and wherein the closure member is operably coupled to the proximal closure portion.