Automated end effector component reloading system for use with a robotic system

摘要

A surgical instrument. The surgical instrument includes an end effector that comprises a staple channel and an anvil that is movably translatable relative to the staple channel. A tool mounting portion is configured to interface with a robotic system and operably communicate with the end effector. The instrument further includes a first sensor that has an output that represents a first condition of a portion of the robotic system. A second sensor has an output that represents a position of the anvil. A third sensor has an output that represents a position of a reciprocating knife within the end effector. An externally accessible memory device communicates with the first, second and third sensors.

主权项

1. An automated reloading system for replacing a spent surgical end effector component in a manipulatable robotic tool portion of a robotic surgical system with a new surgical end effector component, said automated reloading system comprising:
an extraction system supportable within a work envelope of the manipulatable robotic tool portion of the robotic surgical system, said extraction system configured to automatically dislodge said spent surgical end effector component from a component support portion of said manipulatable robotic tool portion when said manipulatable robotic tool portion moves said spent surgical end effector component into extractive engagement therewith; and a new component support arrangement supportable within the work envelope, said new component support arrangement supporting at least one said new surgical end effector component in a loading orientation such that when said manipulatable robotic tool portion moves said component support portion into loading engagement with one of said at least one new surgical end effector components, said one of said at least one new surgical end effector components is loaded therein.