U.S. patent application number 17/379770 was filed with the patent office on 2022-01-13 for external hand control for surgical power tool.
The applicant listed for this patent is DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.. Invention is credited to Cedric Beausse, Stephen M. Bucina, James H. Kasper, David S. Narducci, Ovidiu Neiconi, Piotr Nowak.
Application Number | 20220008048 17/379770 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005866000 |
Filed Date | 2022-01-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220008048 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bucina; Stephen M. ; et
al. |
January 13, 2022 |
EXTERNAL HAND CONTROL FOR SURGICAL POWER TOOL
Abstract
A control device for a surgical power tool. The control device
including a housing, an input element located on the housing, and a
control unit. The housing configured to couple to a surgical power
tool. The input element located proximate the top of the housing
and configured to receive a user input. The control unit located
within the housing, where the control unit sends user input
information received at the input element to the surgical power
tool.
Inventors: |
Bucina; Stephen M.; (Cocoa
Beach, FL) ; Kasper; James H.; (Jensen Beach, FL)
; Beausse; Cedric; (Palm Springs, FL) ; Nowak;
Piotr; (Jupiter, FL) ; Narducci; David S.;
(Lake Worth, FL) ; Neiconi; Ovidiu; (Boynton
Beach, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. |
Raynham |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005866000 |
Appl. No.: |
17/379770 |
Filed: |
July 19, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14795203 |
Jul 9, 2015 |
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17379770 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2017/00199
20130101; A61B 17/00 20130101; A61B 17/1626 20130101; A61B
2017/00367 20130101; A61B 2017/0046 20130101; A61B 2017/00725
20130101; A61B 2017/00982 20130101; A61B 2017/00734 20130101; A61B
2560/045 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/00 20060101
A61B017/00; A61B 17/16 20060101 A61B017/16 |
Claims
1. A control device for a surgical power tool comprising: a housing
sized and configured to couple to a surgical power tool; an input
surface provided at the housing for receiving a user input; and a
control unit within the housing for sending user input information
received at the input surface to a surgical power tool.
2. The device of claim 1, further including: a top housing coupled
to a bottom housing, wherein the bottom housing is sized and
configured to couple to a surgical power tool.
3. The device of claim 2, wherein the top housing is integrally
formed with the bottom housing.
4. The device of claim 1, further comprising arms extending from
the housing, the arms sized and configured to engage at least a
portion of an outer perimeter of a power tool, the arms extending
from the housing in a direction away from a bottom surface of the
housing and include an inner surface having a shape corresponding
to an outer perimeter of a power tool.
5. The device of claim 4, wherein the arms are sized and configured
to couple the control device to a handpiece of a power tool.
6. The device of claim 4, wherein the arms couple the housing to a
power tool by at least one of a snap fit, press fit, a mechanical
fastener, a weld and an adhesive.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the input surface is accessible
via an opening in a top surface of the housing, input surface
extending at least partially into the opening on the housing.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the input surface is composed of
a pressure responsive material, wherein the user input information
varies in response to a pressure of the user input at the input
surface.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the input surface is integrally
formed with the housing.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the input surface is located
proximate the control unit such that a user input at the input
surface activates the control unit.
11. The device of claim 1, wherein the control unit includes a PCB,
a battery, and a wireless communication unit for sending electronic
user input information to a surgical power tool.
12. The device of claim 1, wherein the user input information
varies in response to at least one of a location and a direction of
the user input at the input surface.
13. The device of claim 1, wherein the control unit receives
operation information from a surgical power tool.
14. The device of claim 1, further comprising a cover slidably
coupled to the housing such that the cover is movable between a
first position, over at least a portion of the input surface, and a
second position, away from the input surface, the cover including a
downwardly extending arm slidably engaged to the housing.
15. A surgical tool and control device comprising: a surgical power
tool; a control device coupled to the surgical power tool, the
control device including: a housing including arms for coupling the
control device to the power tool, the arms extending from the
housing and engaging at least a portion of the outer perimeter of a
handpiece of the power tool; a pressure responsive touch pad
located on a top surface of the control device for receiving a user
input; a control unit for sending user input information received
at the touch pad to the power tool for directing a speed of the
power tool; wherein the control unit is movable along the handpiece
of the surgical power tool.
16. The surgical tool and control device of claim 15, wherein the
control unit includes a PCB, a battery, and a wireless
communication unit for sending user input information to the power
tool, wherein the user input information is received by a control
unit of the power tool and the speed of the power tool varies in
response to a pressure of the user input received at the touch
pad.
17. A method of controlling a surgical power tool using a control
device movably and relasably coupled to the power tool, the method
comprising: coupling a control device to a handpiece of a surgical
power tool, move the control device to a desired position, activate
the power tool by providing a user input at an input surface
provided on the control device, sending an operation signal from
the control device to the power tool corresponding to the user
input, and operating the power tool according to the operation
signal.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein coupling the control device to
the surgical power tool includes: aligning the control device over
the power tool such that an opening provided between arms extending
from a bottom surface of the control device is positioned over the
handpiece, pressing the control device onto the handpiece such that
the arms expand to advance the control device onto the handpiece,
where the arms advance over and around the handpiece.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein moving the control device into
the desired position includes at least one of sliding the control
device along the handpiece and rotating the control device around
the handpiece.
20. The method of claim 17, further including: varying the user
input provided at the input surface, sending a varied operation
signal from the control device to the power tool corresponding to
the varied user input, and operating the power tool according to
the varied operation signal, wherein providing a user input and a
varied user input includes applying a pressure at an input surface
provided on the control device.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This disclosure relates to a device for the controlled
operation of a surgical power tool, and more particularly to a
wireless control device mounted to the handpiece of the power
tool.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Many surgical procedures require the use of electrically or
pneumatically powered tools, such as burrs and saws. Typically,
operation of a surgical power tool is controlled either by a foot
pedal or a hand control/input (e.g., a pushbutton, switch, or lever
located on the handpiece of the tool). A common drawback of a foot
pedal controller is the lack of mobility in the operating room.
Many surgical suites are crowded with medical equipment and
hospital staff, making the physician's movement around the patient
(and relocation of the foot pedal) complicated and time consuming.
A system utilizing a controller located along the handpiece of the
power tool can cause problems of visibility of control of the power
tool. For example, depending on the surgical procedure, patient
anatomy, and surgeon's hand size and grip position, visibility of
the surgical site and control of the power tool can be
limited/compromised by the surgeon's hand or the controller itself.
Accordingly, there remains a need in the art to provide a safe and
effective apparatus and method for ensuring visibility of a
surgical site and superior physician control of a hand-operated
power tool.
SUMMARY
[0003] Presented are systems and methods for providing a control
device for a surgical power tool. The control device can include a
housing, an input element located on the housing, and a control
unit. The housing can be sized and configured to be coupled to a
surgical power tool. The input element can be located proximate the
top of the housing for receiving a user input. The control unit can
be located within the housing, where the control unit sends user
input information received at the input element to the surgical
power tool.
[0004] Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a
surgical power tool and an associated control device. The control
device can be coupled to the surgical power tool, the control
device can be moved along or around the handpiece of the surgical
power tool. The control device can include a housing, a pressure
responsive touch pad, and a control unit. The housing can include
arms for coupling the control device to the power tool. The arms
can extend from the housing and can engage at least a portion of
the outer perimeter of the handpiece of the power tool. The
pressure responsive touch pad can be located on a top surface of
the control device and can receive a user input. The control unit
can send user input information received at the input element to
the power tool for directing a speed of the power tool or other
functions.
[0005] A further aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a
method of controlling a surgical power tool using a control unit
movable and releasably coupled to the handpiece of a surgical power
tool. The control device can be first oriented with respect to the
handpiece such that the opening between arms extending from the
bottom surface of the control device is positioned over the
handpiece. The control device can then be pressed onto the
handpiece as the arms flex/expand to advance over and/or around the
handpiece. Once coupled to the handpiece, the control device can be
moved by the surgeon along the body of the handpiece. The surgeon
can slide and/or rotate the control device along/around the
handpiece. The surgeon can then activate the power tool by
providing pressure at the input surface. By varying the pressure at
the input surface, the input information can be varied resulting in
a corresponding change in the operation of the power tool.
[0006] The details of one or more embodiments of the disclosure are
set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Other features, objects, and advantages of the disclosure will be
apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0007] The device is explained in greater detail in the following
drawings. The drawings are merely exemplary to illustrate the
structure of preferred devices and certain features that may be
used singularly or in combination with other features. The
invention should not be limited to the examples shown.
[0008] FIGS. 1-2 are perspective views of an example control
device;
[0009] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example control device
and surgical power tool;
[0010] FIGS. 4A-4B are perspectives views of an example control
device coupled to a surgical power tool;
[0011] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the example control device of
FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 6 is a section view of the example control device of
FIG. 1;
[0013] FIGS. 7A-7B are perspective views of an example top housing
cover;
[0014] FIG. 7C is a top view of the top housing cover of FIG.
7A;
[0015] FIG. 7D is a side view of the top housing cover of FIG.
7A;
[0016] FIG. 7E is a bottom view of the top housing cover of FIG.
7A;
[0017] FIGS. 8A-8B are perspective views of an example bottom
housing cover;
[0018] FIG. 8C is a top view of the bottom housing cover of FIG.
8A;
[0019] FIG. 8D is a side view of the bottom housing cover of FIG.
8A;
[0020] FIG. 8E is a bottom view of the bottom housing cover of FIG.
8A;
[0021] FIG. 8F is an end view of the bottom housing cover of FIG.
8A;
[0022] FIGS. 9A-9B are perspective views of an example input
element;
[0023] FIG. 9C is a top view of the example input element of FIG.
9A;
[0024] FIG. 9D is a side view of the example input element of FIG.
9A;
[0025] FIG. 9E is a bottom view of the example input element of
FIG. 9A;
[0026] FIG. 9F is an end view of the example input element of FIG.
9A;
[0027] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of an example control
unit;
[0028] FIG. 10B is a top view of the example control unit of FIG.
10A;
[0029] FIGS. 11A-11B are perspective views of an example slide
cover;
[0030] FIG. 11C is a top view of the example slide cover of FIG.
11A;
[0031] FIG. 11D is a side view of the example slide cover of FIG.
11A;
[0032] FIG. 11E is a bottom view of the example slide cover of FIG.
11A;
[0033] FIG. 11F is an end view of the example slide cover of FIG.
11A;
[0034] FIG. 12 is a perspective views of an example control
device;
[0035] FIG. 13 is a perspective views of an example control
device;
[0036] FIG. 14 is a perspective views of an example control device;
and
[0037] FIG. 15 is a perspective views of an example control
device.
[0038] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like
elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] Certain terminology is used in the following description for
convenience only and is not limiting. The words "right," "left,"
"lower," and "upper" designate direction in the drawings to which
reference is made. The words "inner" and "outer" refer to
directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center
of the described feature or device. The words "distal" and
"proximal" refer to directions taken in context of the item
described and, with regard to the instruments herein described, are
typically based on the perspective of the surgeon using such
instruments. The terminology includes the above-listed words,
derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.
[0040] Certain examples of the invention will now be described with
reference to the drawings. In general, such embodiments relate to a
control device movably and releasably coupled to the handpiece of a
surgical power tool for use in controlling the operation of the
power tool. FIG. 1 provides a top perspective view of an example
control device 1. The control device 1 can include a housing 10, an
input element 50, and a control unit 60 (not shown). The housing 10
is sized and configured for coupling the control device 1 to a
surgical power tool 100. As will be explained in more detail below,
the housing 10 can include various engagement features that allow
the housing 10/control device 1 to be releasably and/or moveably
coupled to the power tool 100. For example, as illustrated in FIG.
2, the bottom surface of the housing 10 can have a shape
complementary to the outer surface of the power tool 100.
Additionally, the housing 10 can include arms 32 for securing the
housing 10 to the power tool 100.
[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates the control device 1 aligned with the
handpiece 110 of an example surgical power tool 100. It is
contemplated that the example power tool 100 can include any number
of power tools typically used in a surgical procedure. The power
tool 100 can be used in any number of surgical procedures in
orthopaedics, traumatology, neurosurgery, neurotology, spinal
procedures, otolaryngology, cranio-facial surgery, etc. Example
power tools 100 include, for example, drills, saws, shavers,
drivers, reamers, pinners, staplers, microdebriders, etc. For
example, the Anspach XMax.RTM. series or the E-Max.RTM. series,
pneumatic and electric power tools, respectively, are contemplated
for use with the disclosed control device and are commercially
available from DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. of Raynham, Mass.
[0042] The power tool 100 can be electrically (wired or wireless)
and/or pneumatically powered. As will be explained in more detail
below, the housing 10 of the control device 1 can be coupled to the
handpiece 110 of the power tool 100. Depending on the surgical
procedure, patient anatomy, and surgeon grip position and
visibility, the surgeon may wish to position the control device 1
at various locations along and/or around the handpiece 110 of the
power tool 100. For example, as different length attachments (e.g.,
burrs, blades) are attached to the handpiece 110, the distance
between the surgical site/working area and the surgeon's grip
position on the control device 1/handpiece 110 increases, making
control more difficult. The surgeon may wish to position the
control device 1 forward on the handpiece, closer to the surgical
site/working area, thereby giving the surgeon more control and
stability over the power tool 100/handpiece 110. Accordingly, it is
contemplated that the control device 1 can be positioned at any
location along the handpiece 110. For example, as illustrated in
FIG. 4A, the control device 1 can be located rearward on the
handpiece 110, proximate the control end 120 of the power tool 100.
As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the control device 1 can be located
forward on the handpiece 110, proximate the operating end 130 of
the power tool 100.
[0043] FIG. 5 provides an exploded view of the various components
of an example control device 1. FIG. 6 provides a cross-section
view of the example control device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1. The
control device 1 can include a housing 10, an input element 50, a
control unit 60, and a slide cover 70 movable along the housing 10.
As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the housing 10 can include a top
housing 20 and a bottom housing 30. The top housing 20 and the
bottom housing 30 can be permanently or releasably coupled
together. The top housing 20 and the bottom housing 30 can be
coupled using screws, hooks, clips, welds, or any other form of
mechanical fastener known in the art. It is also contemplated that
the top housing 20 and the bottom housing 30 can be coupled using a
chemical fastener/adhesive. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5,
the top housing and the bottom housing 30 can be coupled using a
pressure-sensitive adhesive 40 or an epoxy. It is contemplated that
the top housing 20 and the bottom housing 30 can be formed as a
single, integral housing.
[0044] FIGS. 7A-7E provide various views of an example top housing
20. The top housing 20 can include an elongated body portion 21
sized and configured to extend along a length of the handpiece 110
of the surgical power tool 100. The top housing 20 can include an
opening 22 providing access to the input element 50. As will be
explained in more detail below, the opening 22 can be located
proximate an input position (input element contacts 63) on the
control unit 60 such that user input information received at the
input element 50 is transferred/received by the control unit 60.
The top housing 20 can also include a recessed surface 23 sized and
configured to accommodate movement of the slide cover 70. The top
housing 20 can also an engagement feature for fixing the position
of the slide cover 70. For example, the top surface 24 of the top
housing 20 can include protrusions 25 for engaging a corresponding
recess 73 provided in the slide cover 70. The first protrusion 25A
can secure the slide cover 70 is a first, non-operating, position
where the slide cover 70 covers over at least a portion of the
input element 50 and prevents accidental activation of the power
tool 100. The second protrusion 25B can be used to secure the slide
cover 70 in a second, operating, position away from the input
element 50, illustrated, for example, in FIG. 1.
[0045] The top housing 20 can include an outer grip surface 26 to
accommodate a secure grip by the surgeon during the use,
illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7C, and 7D. The grip surface 26 can
include a contoured outer surface and/or textured surface features
to enhance grip/purchase between the surgeon's hand and the control
device 1. The inside surface 27 of the top housing 20 can include
recessed portions 28 as illustrated in FIGS. 7B and 7E. These
recessed portions 28 can be sized and configured to accommodate the
input element 50 and control unit 60 components.
[0046] FIGS. 8A-8F provide various views of an example bottom
housing 30. The bottom housing 30 can include an elongated body
portion 31 sized and configured to extend along a length of the
handpiece 110 of the surgical power tool 100. The bottom housing 30
can include an engagement feature for coupling the bottom housing
30 to the handpiece 110. The bottom housing 30 can be permanently
or releasably coupled to the handpiece 110. The engagement features
can be provided such that the bottom housing 30 is moveably coupled
along the handpiece 110. For example, the bottom housing 30 may
slide along and/or rotate around the handpiece 110. The surgeon may
couple the housing 10/bottom housing 30 to the handpiece 110 and
wish to relocate along the body of the handpiece 110
before/during/after the surgical procedure. In which case, the
housing 10/bottom housing 30 may slide along the body of the
handpiece 110 to the desired position. The housing 10/bottom
housing 30 may also be fixed to the power tool 100 such that it
does not side along/rotate with respect to the body of the
handpiece 110.
[0047] The engagement features included on the bottom housing 30
can include arms 32 extending in a direction away from bottom
surface 33 of the housing 10/bottom housing 30 and around/towards
the handpiece 110 of the power tool 100. As illustrated in FIGS. 4A
and 4B, the arms 32 can be configured to engage at least a portion
of the outer perimeter of the handpiece 110. It is contemplated
that the arms 32 can be sized and configured to engage a portion of
the power tool 100 other than the handpiece 110. The arms 32 can
engage the outer perimeter of the handpiece 110/power tool 100 by a
snap fit, press fit, a weld, or any other mechanical or chemical
fastener known in the art.
[0048] The arms 32 can include an inside surface 34 having a shape
corresponding to the shape of the handpiece 110/power tool. As
illustrated in FIGS. 8B, 8E and 8F, the inside surface 34 defines a
round surface corresponding to the outside perimeter of the
handpiece 110. Likewise, the bottom housing 30 can include a bottom
surface 33 having a shape corresponding to the shape of the
handpiece 110/power tool 100. For example, as illustrated in FIGS.
8B and 8F, the bottom surface 33 has a rounded shaped corresponding
to the cylindrical shape of the handpiece 110.
[0049] The bottom housing 30 can include recessed surfaces 35 sized
and configured to accommodate movement of the slide cover 70. For
example, as illustrated in FIGS. 2, 8A, 8B, 8D and 8E the bottom
surface 33 of the bottom housing 30 can include recessed surfaces
35 extending along the left and right side of the body portion 31
of the bottom housing 30. The recessed surfaces 35 provide a
groove/slot for the arms 72 of the slide cover 70. The recessed
surfaces 35 can extend along the entire length of the bottom
housing 30. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIGS. 8D and 8E, the
recessed surfaces 35 can extend along only a portion of the length
of the bottom housing 30 and the ends of the recessed surfaces 35
act as stops for the slide cover 70. That is, movement of the
recessed cover between a first position and a second position is
limited by contact between the arms 72 and the ends of the recessed
surfaces 35.
[0050] The top surface 36 of the bottom housing 30 can include
recessed portions 37 as illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8C. These
recessed portions 37 can be sized and configured to accommodate the
input element 50 and the control unit 60. The inside surface 36 can
also include an anchor point 38 for coupling the bottom housing 30
to the input element 50. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 8A
and 8C, the bottom housing 30 can include two circular-shaped
cavities 38 for receiving a similarly-shaped anchors 54 extending
from the input element 50. The anchors 54 of the input element 50
can be permanently and/or releasably coupled to the bottom housing
30. The anchors 54 can be press fit, snap fit, welded, or coupled
to the bottom housing 30 using any other mechanical or chemical
fastener known in the art.
[0051] FIGS. 9A-9F provide various views of an example input
element 50. The input element 50 can include a pressure responsive
touch pad for receiving the surgeon's input. As will be explained
in more detail below, the input element 50 can facilitate an
electrical and/or mechanical connection that translates a user
input at the input surface 51 to the control unit 60, thereby
controlling operation of the surgical power tool 100.
[0052] The input surface 51 can be located at the top surface 24 of
the top housing 10. The input surface 51 can be accessible via the
opening 22 provided in the top housing 10. For example, as
illustrated in FIGS. 1, 5, and 6, the input element 50 can extend
from inside the housing 10 and partially into and/or through the
opening 22 provided in the top housing 20. In an example control
device 1, the input surface 51 is recessed below the top surface 24
of the top housing 20. The input surface 51 can have a shape
corresponding to the shape of the opening 22. As illustrated in
FIGS. 7C and 9C, the input surface 51 and the opening 22 can define
rectangular shape. It is contemplated that the input surface 51
and/or the opening 22 can define can define any suitable shape
including, for example, circular, elliptical, square, rectangular,
or any other regular or irregular shape.
[0053] As outlined above, the input element 50 can include a
pressure responsive touch pad. The input element 50 can be
constructed from a flexible/compliant material. For example the
input element 50 can be constructed from silicone rubber any other
flexible/compliant material known in the art. In an example control
device 1, the input element 50 can be constructed having uniform
flexibility/elasticity. In another example, various portions of the
input element 50 can have differing flexibility/elasticity. As
illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9D, the input surface 51 can extend in
a direction parallel to the base portion of the input element 50.
The input element 50 can include flexible side walls 52 that extend
between the input surface 51 and the base portion 53. The flexible
side walls 52 can be provided such that pressure on the input
surface 51 can result in translational movement of the input
surface 51 with respect to the base portion 53. The side walls 52
can have increased flexibility with respect to the input surface 51
and/or the base portion 53.
[0054] The input element 50 can be permanently or releasably
coupled to the housing 10. In another example (not shown), the
input element 50 can be integrally formed with the housing 10. As
described above, and as illustrated in FIGS. 9B and 9D, the input
element 50 can include anchors 54 sized and configured for coupling
the input element 50 to the housing 10. The anchors 54 can extend
from the base portion 53 in a direction away from the input surface
51. The input element 50 can include any number of anchors 54
suitable for coupling the input element 50 to the housing 10. When
assembled, the anchors 54 can extend through opening 64 provided in
the control unit 60 before coupling to the housing 10.
[0055] FIGS. 10A and 10B provide a perspective and plan view of an
example control unit 60. The control unit 60 can be located within
the housing 10 and can be used to send user input information
received at the input element 50 to the surgical power tool 100 to
direct operation of the power tool 100. For example, the control
unit 60 can provide a wired or wireless communication link with the
corresponding control unit of the power tool 100. The control unit
60 can include a PCB (printed circuit board), a flexible circuit or
any other circuitry for electrically connecting the electronic
components of the control unit 60 and providing two-way
communication between the control unit 60 and the power tool 100.
The control unit 60 can facilitate two-way communication between
the control device 1 and the power tool 100, i.e., the control unit
60 be used to communicate input information received at the input
element 50 to surgical power tool 100 and also receive operation
information from the power tool 100.
[0056] Components of the control unit 60 can include battery
contacts 61, a wireless communication unit 62 (e.g., radio chip
antenna, microcontroller with integrated radio, etc.) for
communicating with the power tool, and input element contacts 63,
an analog-to-digital converter for converting the user's input into
an electrical signal for wireless transmission to the power tool,
etc. A battery 80 can be positioned in-line with the control unit
60. As illustrated in FIGS. 7E and 8C, the top housing 20 and the
bottom housing 30 can include recessed portions 28 and 27 sized and
configured to receive the battery to ensure the low profile design
of the housing 10. A compressive pad 81 may be included within the
housing 10 to secure the position of the battery 80 against
contacts 61 provided on the control unit 60.
[0057] The input element 50 can be located within the control
device 1/housing 10 at a position proximate the control unit 60
such that a user input at the input surface 51 activates the input
element contacts 63 on the control unit 60. In an example control
device 1, the input element 50 can include a carbon or gold pill 55
placed on the bottom surface 56 of the input element 50 proximate
the contacts 63. The carbon pill 55 can be provided within the
input element 50 by means of a silicone overmold (or other
insulative material). Upon depression of the input element 50, the
pill 55 comes into contact with the control unit contacts 63 and
completes an electrical connection. As pressure is removed from the
input surface 51, the electrical connection ends and the input
element 50 and pill 55 return to their neutral position. The force
to operate (actuation force) the input element 50 is approximately
100 g (+/-25 g).
[0058] Varying the user input provided at the input surface 51 can
vary the input information received at/measured by the control unit
60. That is, varying the input information can result in a
corresponding change in power tool 100 operation. For example, it
is contemplated that the control device 1 can be used to control
the on/off function, speed, torque, direction, illumination,
irrigation, suction, or any other function completed by a surgical
power tool. In one example, the increased pressure/force applied at
the input surface 51 can correspond to an increased power tool 100
speed, torque, etc. Likewise, varying the location and/or direction
of the user input on the input surface 51 can result in a
corresponding change in input information and power tool 100
operation. For example, applying input force at a certain location
on the input surface 51 can be used to provide a specific operation
instructions to the power tool 100 (e.g., on/off, speed, torque,
direction). Likewise, sweeping/moving the finger across the input
surface 51 can also be used to provide a specific instruction to
the power tool 100 (e.g., on/off, speed, torque, direction).
[0059] FIGS. 11A-11F provide various views of an example slide
cover 70. The slide cover 70 is movable along the housing 10 (top
housing 20 and bottom housing 30) between a first, non-operating,
position where the slide cover 70 covers over at least a portion of
the input element 50 and a second, operating, position allowing
access to the input element 50. The second, operating, position is
illustrated in FIG. 1. The slide cover 70 can include an extension
71 provided at the distal end of the slide cover 70 for extending
over/covering the input surface 51 of the input element 50 when the
slide cover 70 is in (or proximate) the first, non-operating,
position.
[0060] The slide cover 70 can also include two downwardly extending
arms 72 that wrap around the side edge of the housing 10 (top
housing 20 and bottom housing 30). The arms 72 can extend around at
last a portion of the side and bottom surfaces of the housing 10 to
engage the recessed surfaces 35 provided on the bottom surface 33
of the housing 10/bottom housing 30. The arms 72 can move along the
recessed surfaces 35 between a first and second position. The ends
of the recessed surfaces 35 can act as a stop for the slide cover
70.
[0061] The slide cover 70 can include an engagement feature for
fixing the position of the slide cover 70 along the housing 10/top
housing 20. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 11B and 11E, the
slide cover 70 can include recesses 73 on its bottom surface 74 for
engaging a corresponding protrusion 25 provided in the top housing
20. The bottom surface 74 can also include an elongated channel 75
terminating proximate the circular-shaped recess 73. It is
contemplated that the engagement features, recess 73 and elongated
channel 75, can have any suitable shape/profile corresponding to
the protrusion 25. The recess 73 and elongated channel 75 can have
a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, or any other regular
or irregular shape. As the slide cover 70 moves along the housing
10, the protrusions 25 provided in the top housing 20 move along
the channel 75 of the slide cover 70. Once moved to the first or
second position, the corresponding housing protrusion 25 engages
the recess 73 provided in the slide cover 70. The surgeon can
disengage the engagement features (protrusion/recess) using hand
force.
[0062] The slide cover 70 can include a grip surface 76 to
accommodate a secure grip and provide a leverage point to
facilitate movement of the slide cover 70 by the surgeon. As
illustrated in FIGS. 11A, 11C, 11D, the grip surface 76 can include
a contoured protrusion extending from the top surface 77 of the
slide cover 70. The grip surface 76 can also include a surface
feature/texture on the top and/or side surfaces 77, 78 of the slide
cover 70.
[0063] As outlined above, the slide cover 70 is slidably coupled to
the housing 10 (top housing 20 and bottom housing 30). To provide a
consistent profile along the control device 1, the side cover 70
can have a width and height corresponding to the width and height
of the housing 1. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the slide cover
70 can be received within the recessed surface 23 of the top
housing 20 such that the width and height corresponds to the width
and height of the housing 10. It is contemplated that the grip
surface 76 of the slide cover 70 may extend above the width/height
of the housing 10. However, in another example (not shown), the
height/width of the grip surface of the slide cover 70 is less than
the height/width of the housing 10.
[0064] During use of the control device 1, the control device 1 is
first coupled to and positioned appropriately on the handpiece 110
of a surgical power tool 100. The surgeon may orient with control
device 1 such that the bottom surface 33 of the housing 1 and the
opening between arms 32 aligns with the handpiece 110. The control
device 1 is then coupled to the handpiece 110 by a press-fit or
snap-fit connection. For example, the arms 32 of the housing 10 can
flex/separate to advance over and around the handpiece 110.
Depending on the surgical procedure, patient anatomy, and surgeon
grip position and visibility, the surgeon may wish to position the
control device 1 at various locations along and/or around the
handpiece 110 of the power tool 100. Accordingly, once coupled to
the handpiece 110, the position of the control device 1 can be
adjusted along/around the handpiece 110 as desired by the surgeon.
For example, the surgeon can slide the control device 1 forward or
rearward along the handpiece 110. The surgeon can also rotate the
control device 1 around the perimeter of the handpiece 110.
[0065] If desired, the surgeon can fix the location of the control
device 1 by engaging a mechanical fastener/connection between the
housing 10 and the handpiece 110. Alternatively/in addition, the
surgeon can fix the position of the control device 1 with respect
to the handpiece 110 by grasping the control device 1 and handpiece
110 around the periphery. The surgeon can then move the slide cover
70 to an operating position such that the input surface 51 of the
input element 50 is exposed. To move the slide cover 70, the
surgeon may provide pressure on the grip surface 76 in the
direction of desired movement sufficient to overcome engagement
between the engagement features between the slide cover 70 and the
top housing 10. In one example, lateral pressure may be applied to
the protrusion extending from the top surface 77 of the slide cover
70. In another example, the surgeon may grasp the slide cover 76 at
its side edges and pull/push the slide cover back, away from the
input element 50.
[0066] With the control device 1 attached, the surgeon can then
position the power tool 100 at its desired location at/in the
surgical site to complete the medical procedure. Once positioned,
the input element 50 can be activated by pressure applied by the
surgeon's finger(s)/thumb at the input surface 51. In an example
control device 1, depressing the input element 50 causes a carbon
pill 55 overmolded into the input element 50 to complete an
electrical connection with a corresponding contact 63 provided on
the control unit 60. With the electrical connection in place, user
input information is then transmitted to the power tool 100. By
varying pressure on the input surface 51 the surgeon is able to
vary the input information provided to the power tool 100. For
example, increasing/decreasing the pressure provided on the input
surface 51 can result in a corresponding increase/decrease in the
speed, torque, etc. of the power tool 100. Once the medical
procedure is complete (or the need for the power tool has ended),
the surgeon can remove the power tool 100 from the surgical site.
Before or after removing the power tool 100, the surgeon can
reposition/close the slide cover 70 such that the slide cover 70 is
positioned over the input surface 51. Closing the slide cover 70 is
performed in a similar (but opposite) fashion as opening. The
surgeon can provide pressure on the grip surface 76 in the
direction of desired movement sufficient to overcome engagement
between the engagement features between the slide cover 70 and the
top housing 10. Once in the fully closed position, the recess 73
provided on the slide cover can engages the protrusion 25 provided
in the top housing 10. By repositioning the slide cover 70 and
engaging the protrusion 25, the surgeon prevents accidental
activation of the power tool 100.
[0067] With the surgical tool 100 removed from the surgical site,
the surgeon can then safely remove the control device 1 from the
handpiece 110. If a mechanical fastener was used to fix the
position on the handpiece 110 it must be disengaged. The surgeon
can then slide/pull the control device 1 off of the handpiece 110.
Once the control device is removed from the handpiece 110 it can be
sterilized for reuse, recycled and/or disposed of Because the
control device 1 can be separated from the handpiece 110 (upon
completion of or during the surgical procedure), the control device
1 can be easily be cleaned and sterilized separate from the power
tool 100.
[0068] FIG. 12 provides another example control device 200. The
control device 200 is similar to the control device 1 depicted in
FIG. 1, like reference symbols are used to indicate like elements.
The differences between the control device 200 and the control
device 1 are discussed below. The control device 200 can include a
sliding magnet 250 for providing input information to the control
unit. As the magnet 250 is moved along the housing 210 is activates
the contacts provided on the control unit. For example, the magnet
250 is moved between an on/off position along the housing 210,
thereby providing on/off instructions to the power tool.
[0069] FIG. 13 provides another example control device 300. The
control device 300 is similar to the control device 1 depicted in
FIG. 1, like reference symbols are used to indicate like elements.
The differences between the control device 300 and the control
device 1 are discussed below. The control device 300 can also
include a sliding magnet 350 for providing input information to the
control unit. As the magnet 350 moves along the housing 310, the
contacts on the control unit is activated. In the control device
300, the direction and/or location of the magnet 350 along the
housing can be used vary the input information received at the
control unit.
[0070] FIG. 14 provides another example control device 400. The
control device 400 is similar to the control device 1 depicted in
FIG. 1, like reference symbols are used to indicate like elements.
The differences between the control device 400 and the control
device 1 are discussed below. The control device 400 can include a
popple/snap dome input element 450. Pressure provided at the input
surface of the input element 450 completes the electrical
connection between the input element 450 and contacts of the
control unit. Releasing the pressure on the input surface
disengages the electrical connection. As the popple/snap dome input
element 450 is moved depressed/released a corresponding on/off
instruction is sent to the power tool. In another example, the
control device 400 includes a force sensor input element 450. As
such, the varying the force/pressure applied at the input element
450 corresponds to a change in power tool operation. For example,
as the pressure/force is increased the speed, torque, etc. of the
power tool increases. The control device 400 can also include a
replaceable and/or rechargeable battery 480. The battery 480 can be
accessed via an opening provided at the proximal end of the control
device 400.
[0071] FIG. 15 provides another example control device 500. The
control device 500 is similar to the control device 1 depicted in
FIG. 1, like reference symbols are used to indicate like elements.
The differences between the control device 500 and the control
device 1 are discussed below. The control device 500 can include a
capacitive touch sensor input element 550. The capacitive input
element 550 can include multiple input surfaces capable of
providing different input information to the power tool. For
example, the various input surface can each provide separate
instructions regarding speed, torque, illumination, irrigation, or
any other function completed by the power tool.
[0072] While the foregoing description and drawings represent the
preferred embodiment of the present invention, it will be
understood that various additions, modifications, combinations
and/or substitutions may be made therein without departing from the
spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the
accompanying claims. In particular, it will be clear to those
skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in
other specific forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, and
with other elements, materials, and components, without departing
from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. One skilled
in the art will appreciate that the invention may be used with many
modifications of structure, arrangement, proportions, materials,
and components and otherwise, used in the practice of the
invention, which are particularly adapted to specific environments
and operative requirements without departing from the principles of
the present invention. In addition, features described herein may
be used singularly or in combination with other features. The
presently disclosed embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in
all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the
invention being indicated by the appended claims and not limited to
the foregoing description.
[0073] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
changes could be made to the embodiments described above without
departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is
understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the
particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover
modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention,
as defined by the following claims.
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