阅读说明：本技术 机器人手术系统和用于覆盖机器人手术系统的部件的盖布 (Robotic surgical system and drape for covering components of robotic surgical system ) 是由 迈克尔·热姆洛克 萧泽铭 海门·卡帕迪亚 里哈德·莱克 马克·麦克劳德 于 2018-05-07 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种用于覆盖机器人手术系统的盖布包含第一端部分、第二端部分以及在所述第一端部分和所述第二端部分之间延伸的中间部分。所述第一端部分在其中限定腔,并具有外表面和内表面,并限定穿过所述外表面和所述内表面的入口。所述腔的尺寸被设定成用于接纳器械驱动单元,并与所述入口流体连通。所述第二端部分具有外表面和内表面,并且限定穿过所述外表面和所述内表面的出口。所述第二端部分在其中限定与所述出口流体连通的腔。所述中间部分限定穿过其中的细长导管,所述细长导管的尺寸被设定成用于接纳手术机器人臂。(A drape for covering a robotic surgical system includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion extending between the first end portion and the second end portion. The first end portion defines a cavity therein, has an outer surface and an inner surface, and defines an inlet through the outer surface and the inner surface. The cavity is sized to receive an instrument drive unit and is in fluid communication with the inlet. The second end portion has an outer surface and an inner surface and defines an outlet through the outer surface and the inner surface. The second end portion defines a cavity therein in fluid communication with the outlet. The intermediate portion defines an elongated conduit therethrough sized for receiving a surgical robotic arm.)

1. A drape for covering a robotic surgical system, the drape comprising

A first end portion having an outer surface and an inner surface and defining an inlet through the outer surface and the inner surface, the first end portion defining a cavity therein sized for receiving an instrument drive unit and in fluid communication with the inlet;

a second end portion having an outer surface and an inner surface and defining an outlet through the outer surface and the inner surface of the second end portion, the second end portion defining a cavity therein and in fluid communication with the outlet; and

an intermediate portion extending between the first portion and the second portion and defining an elongated conduit therethrough sized for receiving a surgical robotic arm.

2. The drape of claim 1 wherein the inlet is annular and sized to surround a distal portion of an instrument drive unit.

3. The drape of claim 1 wherein the first end portion comprises a patch covering the inlet, and wherein the patch is configured to allow air to enter through the inlet.

4. The drape of claim 3 wherein the patch is made of a liquid-proof, breathable material.

5. The drape of claim 1 wherein the first end portion comprises:

a first flap extending from the outer surface of the first end portion and overlapping the inlet to define a first portion of a fluid path; and

a second flap extending from the outer surface of the first end portion and overlapping the first flap to define a second portion of the fluid path.

6. The drape of claim 5 wherein the first and second portions of the fluid path are parallel to and in fluid communication with each other.

7. The drape of claim 5 wherein the first end portion comprises a liquid-proof, gas-permeable material attached to the outer surface of the first end portion and covering the inlet.

8. The drape of claim 5 wherein the first end portion comprises:

a first rib disposed in the first portion of the fluid path and extending parallel thereto to maintain a spacing between the first flap and the outer surface; and

a second rib disposed in the second portion of the fluid path and extending parallel thereto to maintain a spacing between the first flap and the second flap.

9. The drape of claim 1 wherein the second end portion defines a vent through the outer surface and the inner surface of the second end portion.

10. A robotic surgical system, comprising:

a surgical robotic arm having a first end portion and a second end portion;

a surgical assembly coupled to the first end portion of the surgical robotic arm; and

a drape, comprising:

a first end portion having an outer surface and an inner surface and defining an inlet through the outer surface and the inner surface, the first end portion defining a cavity therein sized for receiving the surgical assembly and in fluid communication with the inlet;

a second end portion having an outer surface and an inner surface and defining an outlet through the outer surface and the inner surface of the second end portion, the second end portion defining a cavity therein and in fluid communication with the outlet; and

an intermediate portion extending between the first end portion and the second end portion and defining an elongated conduit therethrough sized for receiving the robotic arm.

11. The robotic surgical system of claim 10, wherein the surgical component includes a fan configured to draw air from a sterile field of a procedure into the surgical component through the inlet of the drape, out of the drape through the outlet of the drape, and out of the sterile field of the procedure.

12. The robotic surgical system of claim 11, further comprising a controller in communication with the fan and configured to adjust a speed of the fan based on an orientation of the robotic arm.

13. The robotic surgical system of claim 12, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the speed of the fan using measurements made by strain gauges coupled at joints of the surgical robotic arm.

14. The robotic surgical system of claim 12, further comprising a vent attached to the drape, wherein the controller is further configured to move the vent between an open configuration and a closed configuration based on at least one of a temperature within the drape or the speed of the fan.

15. The robotic surgical system according to claim 11, wherein the surgical assembly includes an instrument drive unit having a first end portion and a second end portion, the fan being attached to the first end portion.

16. The robotic surgical system of claim 15, further comprising a sterile interface module coupled to the second end portion of the instrument drive unit, at least a portion of the sterile interface module configured to be surrounded by the inlet of the drape to allow air to pass through the sterile interface module into the cavity of the first end portion of the drape.

17. The robotic surgical system according to claim 15, wherein the instrument drive unit has a plurality of fluid channels extending from the first end portion of the instrument drive unit to the second end portion of the instrument drive unit, the plurality of fluid channels taking a tortuous path through the instrument drive unit, thereby preventing liquid ingress and allowing air ingress.

18. The robotic surgical system of claim 10, further comprising a robotic cart having a first end portion and a second end portion, wherein the cavity of the second end portion of the drape is sized to receive at least one of the first end portion or the second end portion of the robotic cart.

19. The robotic surgical system of claim 18, wherein the robotic cart has a fan that directs a flow of air through the conduits of the drape in a direction from the first end portion of the drape toward the second end portion of the drape.

20. The robotic surgical system of claim 10, wherein the drape includes at least one elongated electrically conductive rib extending along an inner surface of the intermediate portion of the drape.

21. The robotic surgical system of claim 10, wherein the inlet of the drape is annular and sized to surround a distal portion of a sterile interface module of the surgical assembly.

22. The robotic surgical system of claim 10, wherein the first end portion of the drape includes a patch covering the inlet, and wherein the patch is configured to allow air to enter the inlet.

23. The robotic surgical system of claim 22, wherein the patch is made of a liquid-proof, breathable material.

24. The robotic surgical system of claim 10, wherein the first end portion of the drape includes:

a first flap extending from the outer surface of the first end portion and overlapping the inlet to define a first portion of a fluid path; and

a second flap extending from the outer surface of the first end portion and overlapping the first flap to define a second portion of the fluid path.

25. The robotic surgical system according to claim 24, wherein the first and second portions of the fluid path are parallel to each other and in fluid communication with each other.

26. The robotic surgical system of claim 24, wherein the first end portion of the drape includes a liquid-proof, gas-permeable material attached to the outer surface of the first end portion of the drape and covering the inlet.

27. The robotic surgical system of claim 24, wherein the first end portion of the drape includes:

a first rib disposed in the first portion of the fluid path and extending parallel thereto to maintain a spacing between the first flap and the outer surface thereof; and

a second rib disposed in the second portion of the fluid path and extending parallel thereto to maintain a spacing between the first flap and the second flap.

28. The robotic surgical system of claim 10, wherein the drape includes a tubular member extending along the middle portion of the drape and having a proximal opening disposed within the first end portion of the drape and a distal opening disposed adjacent the second end portion of the drape, such that air travels from the first end portion of the drape through the proximal opening into the tubular member and exits the tubular member through the distal opening.

Background

Robotic surgical systems have been used in minimally invasive medical procedures. Some robotic surgical systems include a console supporting a surgical robotic arm and a surgical instrument having at least one end effector (e.g., forceps or grasping tool) mounted to the robotic arm. The robotic arm provides mechanical power to the surgical instrument to operate and move it.

Manually operated surgical instruments typically include a handle assembly for actuating the functions of the surgical instrument. However, when using robotic surgical systems, there is typically no handle assembly for actuating the functions of the end effector. Thus, to use each unique surgical instrument with a robotic surgical system, the instrument drive unit is used to interface with the selected surgical instrument to drive operation of the surgical instrument.

Operation of the instrument drive unit, the robotic arm, the robotic cart, and/or other components of the robotic surgical system may generate heat. Excessive heat may damage or impair the operation of various components of the instrument drive unit or other components of the robotic surgical system. Accordingly, it would be beneficial to provide a means for cooling components of a surgical system while also maintaining the sterility of the surgical system.

Disclosure of Invention

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a drape for covering and facilitating cooling of a robotic surgical system is provided. The drape includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion extending between the first and second end portions. The first end portion has an outer surface and an inner surface and defines an inlet through the outer surface and the inner surface. The first end portion also defines a cavity therein. The cavity is sized to receive an instrument drive unit and is in fluid communication with the inlet. The second end portion has an outer surface and an inner surface and defines an outlet through the outer surface and the inner surface. The second end portion further defines a cavity therein in fluid communication with the outlet. The intermediate portion defines an elongated conduit therethrough sized for receiving a surgical robotic arm.

In some embodiments, the inlet may be annular and sized to surround the sterile interface module.

It is contemplated that the first end portion may include a patch covering the inlet and configured to allow air to enter through the inlet. The patch may be made of a liquid-proof, breathable material.

It is contemplated that the first end portion of the drape may include a first flap and a second flap each extending from an outer surface of the first end portion. The first flap may overlap the inlet to define a first portion of the fluid path. The second flap can overlap the first flap to define a second portion of the fluid path. The first and second portions of the fluid path may be parallel to and in fluid communication with each other. The first end portion may also include a first rib and a second rib. The first rib can be disposed in the first portion of the fluid path and extend parallel thereto to maintain a spacing between the first flap and the outer surface. The second rib can be disposed in the second portion of the fluid path and extend parallel thereto to maintain a spacing between the first flap and the second flap.

In some embodiments, the first end portion may include a liquid-proof, gas-permeable material attached to an outer surface of the first end portion. A liquid-proof, gas-permeable material may cover the inlet.

It is contemplated that the second end portion may define a vent through the outer and inner surfaces of the second portion.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a robotic surgical system is provided and includes a surgical robotic arm, a surgical assembly coupled to a first end portion of the surgical robotic arm, and a drape for covering the surgical robotic arm and the surgical assembly. The drape includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion extending between the first and second end portions. The first end portion has an outer surface and an inner surface and defines an inlet through the outer surface and the inner surface. The first end portion further defines a cavity therein. The cavity is sized to receive a surgical assembly and is in fluid communication with the inlet. The second end portion has an outer surface and an inner surface and defines an outlet through the outer surface and the inner surface. The second end portion further defines a cavity therein in fluid communication with the outlet. The intermediate portion defines an elongated conduit therethrough sized for receiving a surgical robotic arm.

In some embodiments, the surgical assembly may include a fan configured to draw air from the sterile field of surgery, into the surgical assembly through an inlet of the drape, out of the drape through an outlet of the drape, and out of the sterile field of surgery. The robotic surgical system may further include a controller in communication with the fan. The controller may be configured to adjust the speed of the fan based on the orientation of the robotic arm. Measurements made by strain gauges coupled at joints of the surgical robotic arm may be used to adjust the speed of the fan. The controller may also be configured to adjust the speed of the fan based on thermal sensors, current sensors, and/or tachometers and/or encoders within the fan.

It is contemplated that the robotic surgical system may further include a vent attached to the drape. The controller may be further configured to move the vent between the open and closed configurations based on a temperature within the drape and/or a speed of the fan.

It is contemplated that the surgical assembly may include an instrument drive unit having a first end portion and a second end portion. The fan may be attached to the first end portion. The surgical assembly may include a sterile interface module coupled to a second end portion of the instrument drive unit. The sterile interface module may be configured to be surrounded by an inlet of the drape to allow air to enter the cavity of the first end portion of the drape through the sterile interface module. The instrument drive unit may have a plurality of fluid channels extending from a first end portion of the instrument drive unit to a second end portion of the instrument drive unit. The fluid path may take a tortuous path through the instrument drive unit, thereby preventing liquid ingress and allowing air ingress. In some embodiments, the robotic surgical system may further include a robotic cart having a first end portion and a second end portion. The cavity of the second end portion of the drape may be sized to receive at least one of the first end portion or the second end portion of the robotic cart. The robotic cart may have a fan that directs a flow of air through a conduit of the drape in a direction from the first end portion of the drape toward the second end portion of the drape.

It is contemplated that the drape may include elongated electrically conductive ribs extending along an interior surface of the intermediate portion of the drape.

It is contemplated that the inlet of the drape may be annular and sized to surround the distal portion of the instrument drive unit of the surgical assembly.

In some embodiments, the first end portion of the drape may include a patch covering the inlet and configured to allow air to enter through the inlet. The patch may be made of a liquid-proof, breathable material.

It is contemplated that the first end portion of the drape may include a first flap and a second flap each extending from an outer surface of the first end portion. The first flap may overlap the inlet to define a first portion of the fluid path. The second flap can overlap the first flap to define a second portion of the fluid path. The first and second portions of the fluid path may be parallel to and in fluid communication with each other. The first end portion may also include a first rib and a second rib. The first rib can be disposed in the first portion of the fluid path and extend parallel thereto to maintain a spacing between the first flap and the outer surface. The second rib can be disposed in the second portion of the fluid path and extend parallel thereto to maintain a spacing between the first flap and the second flap.

In some embodiments, the first end portion of the drape may include a liquid-proof, breathable material attached to an outer surface of the first end portion. A liquid-proof, gas-permeable material may cover the inlet.

It is contemplated that the drape may further comprise a tubular member extending along an intermediate portion thereof. The tubular member may comprise: a proximal opening disposed within the first end portion of the drape and a distal opening disposed adjacent the second end portion of the drape such that air enters the tubular member from the first end portion of the drape through the proximal opening and exits the tubular member through the distal opening.

Further details and aspects of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

As used herein, the terms parallel and perpendicular are understood to encompass relative configurations that are substantially parallel and substantially perpendicular up to about + or-10 degrees from true parallel and true perpendicular.

Drawings

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a robotic surgical system incorporating a robotic surgical assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the robotic surgical assembly of FIG. 1 attached to a robotic arm cart;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the robotic surgical assembly of FIG. 2;

fig. 4A-4C are perspective views of a drape covering different portions of a robotic surgical assembly, robotic arm, and robotic arm cart;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the robotic surgical assembly, robotic arm, and robotic arm cart of FIG. 2, each covered by a drape;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the drape of FIG. 5 showing a plurality of vents formed in the drape;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 3, illustrating the instrument drive unit of the robotic surgical assembly covered by the drape;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the robotic surgical assembly, robotic arm, and robotic arm cart shown in FIG. 2, each covered by another embodiment of a drape;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 3, showing an instrument drive unit of the robotic surgical assembly covered by the drape of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the robotic surgical assembly, robotic arm, and robotic arm cart shown in FIG. 2, each covered by another embodiment of a drape;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 3, showing an instrument drive unit of the robotic surgical assembly covered by the drape of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of detail 12 of the drape shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a side view of an instrument drive unit coupled with the sterile interface module of FIG. 3;

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the instrument drive unit of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 15A-15A of FIG. 13, showing an air passage defined through the instrument drive unit;

FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 15B-15B of FIG. 13, showing an air passage defined through another portion of the instrument drive unit;

FIG. 15C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 15C-15C of FIG. 13, showing an air passage defined through yet another portion of the instrument drive unit;

FIG. 15D is a cross-sectional view taken along line 15D-15D of FIG. 13, illustrating the flexible spool assembly of the instrument drive unit.

Fig. 15E is a cross-sectional view taken along line 15E-15E of fig. 13, showing a fan of the instrument drive unit.

FIG. 16A is a perspective view of a fan of the instrument drive unit of FIG. 3;

FIG. 16B is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fan of the instrument drive unit of FIG. 3;

FIG. 17A is a top perspective view of the sterile interface module of FIG. 3, showing air channels defined therein;

fig. 17B is a bottom perspective view of the sterile interface module of fig. 3;

FIG. 17C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 17C-17C of FIG. 17A, illustrating the air passage defined through the sterile interface module;

FIG. 18 is a top view of the sterile interface module of FIG. 17A;

fig. 19 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sterile interface module of fig. 17A;

FIG. 20 is another cross-sectional view of the sterile interface module of FIG. 17A; and

fig. 21 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a drape covering a portion of a robotic surgical assembly, robotic arm, and robotic arm cart.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the presently disclosed robotic surgical system including a robotic trolley, a surgical robotic arm, a surgical assembly (including an instrument drive unit ("IDU") and a surgical instrument), and a drape for covering some or all of the foregoing components are described in detail with reference to the drawings in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views. As used herein, the term "distal" refers to the portion of the robotic arm cart, surgical robotic arm, surgical component, or drape that is closer to the patient, while the term "proximal" refers to the portion of the robotic arm cart, surgical robotic arm, surgical component, or drape that is further from the patient.

As will be described in detail below, a drape is provided for covering and facilitating cooling of various components of a robotic surgical system. The drape maintains the sterility of the surgical assembly disposed therein and cools its components by facilitating the transfer of air through the drape and out of the surgical assembly. In addition, the surgical assembly includes one or more fans, heat sinks, and labyrinth passages defined through the components of the surgical assembly to facilitate cooling thereof.

Referring first to fig. 1-3, a surgical system, such as a robotic surgical system 1, generally includes one or more robotic arms 2, 3 coupled to a robotic cart 10, a surgical assembly 100 coupled to the surgical robotic arm 2, and a drape 200 for covering the robotic arm 2 and the surgical assembly 100 (fig. 4A-4C). In some embodiments, the drape 200 may be sized to also cover the robotic arm cart 10. The surgical assembly 100 includes an instrument drive unit (hereinafter "IDU") 110 coupled to the sled 40 of the surgical robotic arms 2, 3 and an electromechanical surgical instrument 130 operably coupled to the IDU110 through a sterile interface module 112 of the surgical assembly 100.

The surgical system 1 further comprises a control device 4 and an operating console 5 coupled to the control device 4. The operation console 5 comprises a display device 6, which is specifically arranged to display a three-dimensional image; and manual input means 7, 8, by means of which manual input means 7, 8 a person (not shown), for example a surgeon, can telecontrol the robot arms 2, 3 in a first operating mode, as is known in principle to the person skilled in the art. Each of the robot arms 2, 3 may be constituted by a plurality of members 2a, 2b, 2c connected by joints. The robot arms 2, 3 may be driven by an electric drive (not shown) connected to the control device 4. The control device 4, for example a computer, may be arranged to activate the drivers, in particular by means of a computer program, such that the robot arms 2, 3, the attached robotic surgical assembly 100 and thus the electromechanical surgical instrument 130, including the electromechanical end effector (not shown), perform the desired movements according to the movements defined by means of the manual input devices 7, 8. The control device 4 may also be arranged such that it regulates the movement of the robot arms 2, 3.

The robotic surgical system 1 is configured for lying on a patient "P" on an operating table "ST" for treatment in a minimally invasive manner by means of a surgical instrument, such as an electromechanical surgical instrument 130. In an embodiment, the robotic arms 2, 3 may be coupled to the robotic arm cart 10 (fig. 2) rather than the operating table "ST". The robotic surgical system 1 may also comprise more than two robot arms 2, 3, which are likewise connected to the control device 4 and can be remotely controlled by means of the operating console 5. Surgical instruments, such as electromechanical surgical instrument 130 (including electromechanical end effectors), may also be attached to the additional robotic arm.

The control device 4 may control a plurality of motors, for example motors (motor 1 … … n), wherein each motor is configured to drive the robotic arm 2, 3 in a plurality of directions. In addition, the control device 4 may control a motor assembly 114 (fig. 7) of the IDU110 of the robotic surgical assembly 100, which motor assembly 114 drives various operations of the surgical instrument 130. In addition, the control device 4 may control the operation of a rotary motor, such as a can motor "M" (fig. 13) of the IDU110 of the surgical assembly 100, which is configured to drive relative rotation of the motor assembly 114 of the IDU110 and, in turn, the electromechanical surgical instrument 130. In an embodiment, each motor 114 of the IDU110 may be configured to actuate a drive rod/cable or lever arm to effect operation and/or movement of the electromechanical surgical instrument 130.

For a detailed discussion of the construction and operation of robotic surgical systems, reference may be made to U.S. patent No. 8,828,023, entitled Medical Workstation, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Referring to fig. 4A-7, the drape 200 of the robotic surgical system 1 has a generally elongate configuration, such as a tubular shape, and is made of an elastic material, such as a natural and/or synthetic fabric, or a liquid/moisture impermeable layered material. In embodiments, the drape 200 may be a single layer or laminate or fabric, and may be referred to, for example, asIs made of a nonwoven spunbond olefin fiber material that is vapor/gas permeable, liquid resistant and prevents the passage of liquids or contaminants therethrough. In other embodiments, the drape 200 may be made of Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, polyurethane, and/or polyethylene materials or other similar non-toxic biocompatible compounds. In some embodiments, only portions of the drape 200 may be made of a liquid-proof, breathable material and at various locations of the drape 200. The drape 200 may be translucent such that the drape 200 covers the components of the surgical assembly 100Still visible to the clinician. It is contemplated that the drape 200 may be opaque along different portions rather than translucent or both. The drape 200 has a first or distal end portion 200a, a second or proximal end portion 200b, and an intermediate portion 200c extending between the first and second end portions 200a, 200 b. In some embodiments, the high density polyethylene textile fibers or synthetic fabric may be glued, heat bonded, ultrasonically welded, stitched, hook and loop secured, or stitch bonded to the drape 200.

The drape 200 may have any suitable length to cover various portions of the surgical system 1. For example, as shown in fig. 4A, the drape 200 may be of sufficient length to allow at least the second end portion 200b of the drape 100 to fit over the base or proximal portion 42 of the surgical robotic arm 2. As shown in fig. 4B, the drape 200 may be of sufficient length to allow at least the second end portion 200B to fit over the handle portion 12 of the robotic arm cart 10 and be secured to the post 14 of the robotic arm cart 10. As shown in fig. 4C, the drape 200 may have a length sufficient to allow at least the second end portion 200b thereof to fit over the base 16 of the cart 10. The drape 200 may have a length to accommodate the robotic arm 2 in a fully extended position.

Referring to fig. 5-7, the drape 200 of the surgical system 1 is defined by a drape wall 206 having an exterior surface 202 and an interior surface 204. The drape wall 206 may be made of the same or a single material and integrally formed, or in some embodiments, the drape wall 206 may be made of layers of different materials or of the same material with different properties. The inner surface 204 of the drape 200 defines a cavity 208 therein at the first end portion 200 a. Cavity 208 of first end portion 200a is sized to receive or enclose surgical assembly 100 (e.g., instrument drive unit 110 and sled 40).

With continued reference to fig. 5-7, the first end portion 200a of the drape 200 defines an inlet or channel 210 extending through the exterior surface 202 and the interior surface 204 of the drape 200. The inlet 210 is in fluid communication with the cavity 208 of the first end portion 200 a. As such, the inlet 210 causes an air flow "F" into the drape 200 to cool the components of the surgical assembly 100. The inlet 210 has a generally circular or annular shape that is sized to form a fluid-tight seal with the sterile interface module 112 of the surgical assembly 100. In some embodiments, when sterile interface module 112 is not in use, inlet 210 may be sized to form a fluid-tight seal with distal portion 110b (fig. 3) of instrument drive unit 210. During assembly, drape 200 is placed over rails 40 and instrument drive unit 110, and sterile interface module 112 is positioned to extend through an inlet 210 of drape 200, while surgical instrument 130 protrudes from an outer surface 202 of drape 200. The inlet 210 of the drape 200 contains a ring (not shown) configured to couple the sterile interface module 112 thereto while allowing the sterile interface module 112 to rotate relative to and within the inlet 210 of the drape 200. The air flow "F" travels through the dedicated opening 180 defined in the sterile interface module 112 and seeps into the first end portion 200a of the drape 200. As will be described with reference to fig. 8-12, the drape 200 may have two inlets at the first end portion 200a, rather than the drape 200 having only one inlet 210.

With continued reference to fig. 5-7, the intermediate portion 200c of the drape 200 is sized to enclose or house the elongate members 2a, 2b, 2c of the surgical robotic arm 2. Specifically, the intermediate portion 200c of the drape 200 defines an elongate conduit 212, the elongate conduit 212 extending longitudinally through the intermediate portion 200c and sized for receiving a surgical robotic arm, such as robotic arm 2. The conduit 212 of the intermediate section 200c has a length sized to receive the robotic arm 2. In an embodiment, the length of the conduit 212 is dimensioned to accommodate at least the entire length of the robotic arm 2 when each elongate member 2a, 2b, 2c of the robotic arm 2 is in the extended state. The intermediate portion 200c of the drape 200 may be made of the same material as its first end portion 200 a. In some embodiments, the intermediate portion 200c of the drape 200 may be made of a different material or the same material with a different flexibility than the first end portion 200 a.

The intermediate portion 200c of the drape 200 may have elongated electrically conductive ribs or fins 214 (fig. 5) attached to and extending from the interior surface 204 of the drape 200. Fins 214 may be constructed of a thermally conductive material, such as woven metal, graphite, copper, or aluminum. The fins 214 may act as a heat sink to facilitate heat transfer away from the first end portion 200a of the drape 200 toward the second end portion 200b of the drape 200. In some embodiments, fins 214 may be thermoelectric cooling modules for actively cooling air passing therethrough. It is contemplated that thermoelectric cooling modules may be positioned at various locations throughout the drape 200.

The second end portion 200b of the drape 200 defines a cavity 216 therein. The cavity 216 of the second end portion 200b is sized to receive or enclose at least the proximal portion 42 of the robotic arm 2 and/or one or more portions of the robotic arm cart 10. The second end portion 200b of the drape 200 has an outlet or channel 218 extending through the drape wall 206 of the drape 200. As such, the outlet 218 of the second end portion 200b of the drape 200 is in fluid communication with the cavity 216 of the second end portion 200b of the drape 200. The outlet 218 of the drape 200 has a generally circular or annular shape that is sized to fit over the handle portion of the cart 10 and/or the cart 10, in an embodiment, over the entire handle portion of the cart 10. The outlet 218 of the second end portion 200b of the drape 200 may be located at the proximal-most end of the drape 200 rather than on a side of the drape 200, as with the inlet 210 of the first end portion 200 a. As such, the drape 200 is open at its proximal-most end, while the drape 200 is closed at its distal-most end. It is contemplated that the outlet 218 may be located at any position along the length of the drape 200.

It is contemplated that the outlet 218 of the drape 200 may include an adhesive liner (not shown) disposed/formed on an inner perimeter thereof (e.g., on the inner surface 204 of the drape 200) for securing the second end portion 200b of the drape 200 to the cart 10. In embodiments, the outlet 218 of the drape 200 may include elastic bands (not explicitly shown), hook and loop fasteners, tie down bands, elastic hooks, magnetic materials, or the like, around the periphery of the second end portion 200b to help secure the cart 10 within the outlet 218 of the second end portion 200 b. In some embodiments, instead of having an outlet 218 with an elastic band, the outlet 218 may have a tether (not explicitly shown) disposed around the periphery of the outlet 218 to allow the diameter of the outlet 218 to be adjusted to fit over and secure to various portions of the cart 10.

Referring to fig. 6, the second end portion 200b of the drape 200 may include one or more pressure sensitive vents 220 disposed in the drape wall 206 of the drape 200. The vent 220 is configured to open when the cavity 216 of the second end portion 200b of the drape 200 reaches a threshold amount of air pressure therein. In this manner, if the outlet 218 of the drape 200 is closed or tightly secured to the cart 10 or the like, causing air pressure to accumulate within the second end portion 200b, the vent 220 may be passively opened or may be configured to allow air to continuously pass from the first end portion 200a, through the intermediate portion 200c, and out of the second end portion 200b of the drape 200 through the vent 220. In some embodiments, the vent 220 may be in communication with a control device 4 (fig. 1), which control device 4 may be configured to move the vent 220 between the open and closed states based on a temperature or pressure within the first end portion 200a, the intermediate portion 200c, and/or the second end portion 200b of the drape 200, such as by a servo or a hydraulic drive system. It is contemplated that the control device 4 may be configured to move the vent 220 between the open state and the closed state based on the speed of the fan 150 of the IDU 110. It is contemplated that the vent 220 may be configured to remain open to act as an inlet rather than an outlet. The vent 220 may be made of a liquid-proof, air-permeable material (e.g., polyethylene fibers or polypropylene) that allows air flow to passively pass therethrough. In one embodiment, the vent 220 may be coupled to the drape wall 206 of the drape 200 using a piece of shape memory material (e.g., a shape memory alloy) configured to expand when a threshold temperature is reached. As such, the shape memory material lifts or raises the vent 220 relative to the drape wall 206, creating an opening in the drape wall 206 for air to pass through.

The second end portion 200b may also contain a fan (not shown) that draws air from the first end portion 200a toward the outlet 218 of the second end portion 200b of the drape 200. In some embodiments, the cart 10 may include fans 222, 224 attached to the base 16 and/or handle portion 12 of the cart 10, respectively. The fans 222, 224 of the cart 10 may draw air from the first end portion 200a of the drape 200 toward the outlet 218 of the second end portion 200b of the drape 200.

During assembly or application of the drape 200 to the cart 10, the second end portion 200b of the drape 200 is placed over the handle portion 12 of the cart 10 and secured to the posts 14 of the cart 10, as shown in fig. 5. In some embodiments, during assembly, the second end portion 200b of the drape 200 may cover the handle portion 12, post 14, and base 16 of the cart 10 and be secured to the lower surface of the base 16 of the cart 10, as shown in fig. 6. When the second end portion 200b of the drape 200 is secured to the cart 10, the outlet 218 of the second end portion 200b of the drape 200 remains open to allow the flow of air "F" therethrough.

The fan 150 of the IDU110 is activated to create a negative pressure within the cavity 208 of the first end portion 200a that draws an air flow "F" from the sterile field into the drape 200 through the sterile interface module 112. The air flow "F" continues to travel through the IDU110 to cool the components of the IDU 110. The air flow "F" then exits the IDU110 through the fan 150 and through the first end portion 200a, the middle portion 200c, and the second end portion 200b of the drape 200. The air flow "F," which is now warmed by absorbing heat generated by the operation of the IDU110, will eventually move out of the drape 200 through the outlet 218 and/or vent 220 and into the operating room or non-sterile area.

Referring to fig. 8 and 9, another embodiment of a drape 300 for covering portions of the surgical assembly 100, the surgical robotic arm 2, and the robotic arm cart 10 is provided. The drape 300 includes a drape wall 306 having an exterior surface 302 and an interior surface 304. The outer surface 302 and the inner surface 304 of the drape wall 306 are both made of the same material and are integrally formed with each other. In some embodiments, one or each of the outer surface 302 and the inner surface 304 of the drape wall 306 of the drape 300 may be made of different layers of material or the same material having different properties. The inner surface 304 at the first end portion 300a of the drape 300 defines a cavity 308 therein. The cavity 308 of the first end portion 300a of the drape 300 is sized to receive or enclose the surgical assembly 100 (e.g., the instrument drive unit 110 and the slide rail 40).

Instead of the first end portion 300a of the drape 300 having only one inlet, as is the case in the first end portion 200a of the drape 200 described above with reference to fig. 5-7, the first end portion 300a of the drape 300 of the present embodiment defines at least two inlets 310a, 310b, each extending through a drape wall 306 of the drape 300. As such, the first inlet 310a and the second inlet 310b are each in fluid communication with the cavity 308 of the first end portion 300 a. Similar to the inlet 210 of the drape 200, the first inlet 310a of the drape 300 has a generally circular or annular shape sized to form a seal with the sterile interface module 112 of the surgical assembly 100. In some embodiments, first inlet 310a may be sized to form a seal with bottom portion 110b (fig. 3) of instrument drive unit 110, rather than sterile interface module 112.

In use, the drape 300 is placed over the surgical assembly 100, and the sterile interface module 112 is positioned to extend through the first inlet 310a with the surgical instruments 130 protruding from the drape 300.

The second inlet 310b of the first end portion 300a of the drape 300 is disposed distal to the first inlet 310a (i.e., further away from the second end portion 300b of the drape 300). The second inlet 310b is positioned at a location of the first end portion 300a of the drape 300 that is adjacent to a side of the instrument drive unit 110 when the drape 300 is positioned over the surgical assembly 100, as shown in fig. 8. The second inlet 310b of the drape 300 may be covered with an air permeable patch 319, the patch 319 inhibiting ingress of liquid/moisture into the cavity 308 of the first end portion 300a while allowing ingress of air through the second inlet 310 b. For example, the patch 319 may be generally referred to asIs made of the nonwoven spunbond olefin fiber material of (a). The patch 319 may be made of any suitable organic, natural and/or synthetic monolayer or multilayer material, including parylene, HDPE, PTFE, polymer coated waterproof vapor/gas permeable fabric, flash spun high density polyethylene fiber, woven or non-woven fabric, porous polymer, or any combination thereof. In this manner, the patch 319 inhibits liquid from entering the interior of the drape 300 while allowing air to enter the cavity 308 of the first end portion 300a of the drape 300, which air then passes through the instrument drive unit 110 to cool the internal components of the instrument drive unit 110.

With continued reference to fig. 8 and 9, the intermediate portion 300c of the drape 300 is sized to enclose or house the elongated members 2a, 2b, 2c of the surgical robotic arm 2. In particular, the intermediate portion 300c of the drape 300 defines an elongate conduit 312, the elongate conduit 312 extending longitudinally through the intermediate portion 300c and sized for receiving a surgical robotic arm, such as robotic arm 2. The conduit 312 of the intermediate portion 300c has a length that is dimensioned to accommodate the robotic arm 2, in embodiments at least the entire length of the robotic arm 2 when each elongate member 2a, 2b, 2c of the robotic arm 2 is in the extended state. The intermediate portion 300c of the drape 300 may be made of the same elastomeric material as the first end portion 300 a. In some embodiments, the middle portion 300c of the drape 300 may be made of a different material or the same material with a different flexibility than the first end portion 300 a.

The intermediate portion 300c may have elongated electrically conductive ribs or fins (not explicitly shown), similar to the fins 214 of the drape 200, attached to the interior surface 304 of the drape 300. The fins of the drape 300 may act as heat sinks to facilitate the transfer of heat away from the first end portion 300a of the drape 300 toward the second end portion 300b of the drape 300.

The second end portion 300b of the drape 300 defines a cavity 316 therein. The cavity 316 of the second end portion 300b is dimensioned to receive or enclose at least the proximal portion 42 of the robotic arm 2 and/or one or more portions of the robotic cart 10. The second end portion 300b of the drape 300 has an outlet 318 extending through the drape wall 306 of the drape 300. As such, the outlet 318 of the second end portion 300b is in fluid communication with the cavity 316 of the second end portion 300b of the drape 300. The outlet 318 of the drape 300 has a generally circular or annular shape that is sized to fit integrally on the handle portion 12 of the cart 10 or the cart 10. The outlet 318 of the second end portion 300b of the drape 300 may be located at the most proximal end of the drape 300 rather than at the side of the drape 300, as with the first and second inlets 310a, 310b of the first end portion 300 a. As such, the drape 300 is open at its proximal-most end, while the drape 300 is closed at its distal-most end.

In use, the drape 300 is positioned over the surgical assembly 100, the robotic arm 2, and the handle portion 12 of the cart 10, as shown in fig. 8. The sterile interface module 112 extends through the first inlet 310a of the drape 300 such that an upper portion of the sterile interface module 112 is located within the cavity 308 of the first end portion 300a and a bottom portion of the sterile interface module 112 is disposed outside of the drape 300. The second inlet 310b of the drape 300 is disposed adjacent a side of the instrument drive unit 110 to align with the opening 131 defined in the instrument drive unit 110. The air flow "F" generated by, for example, the fan 150, moves through the second inlet 310b of the drape 300 and into the cavity 308 of the drape 300. Specifically, as the air flow "F" moves through the second inlet 310b of the drape 300, it enters the cavity 308 through the patch 319, such that substantially all of the moisture moving with the air flow "F" is captured by the patch 319 and does not enter the cavity 308 of the drape 300. The air flow "F" then enters the IDU110 through the opening 131 defined in the IDU110 and exits the IDU110 through the fan 150 to cool the internal components of the IDU 110. The air flow "F" which has now absorbed the heat generated by the working components of the IDU110 moves through the conduit 312 of the middle portion 300c of the drape 300 and out of the second end portion 300b of the drape through the outlet 318. In some embodiments, air enters the drape 300 not only through the second inlet 310b, but also through both the first inlet 310a and the second inlet 310 b.

Referring to fig. 10-12, another embodiment of a drape 400 is shown, similar to the drape 300 described with reference to fig. 8 and 9. The drape 400 is similar to the drape 300 except that in addition to the patch 319 (fig. 9), or alternatively with the patch 319, the first end portion 400a of the drape 400 includes a first flap or baffle 432 and a second overlapping flap or baffle 434 covering the inlet 410 b. A first flap 432 and a second flap 434 extend from the outer surface 402 of the cover 400. The first flap 432 is made of a stiffer, less flexible material than the outer surface 402 of the drape 400. In some embodiments, the first flap 432 may be made of the same breathable material as the drape 400, or of a more elastic/flexible material than the drape 400. The first flap 432 has a first end portion 432a connected to the outer surface 402 of the drape 400 at a location adjacent a first side of the second inlet 410 b.

The inlet 410b has a perforated shroud or section 419 that allows the air flow "F" to pass therethrough while inhibiting the passage of moisture therethrough. In some embodiments, instead of having a perforated cover 419, the inlet 410b may have a liquid-proof breathable cover, or may be covered by a patch 319, or may not have any cover except for the first and second flaps 432, 434.

First flap 432 has a second or free end portion 432b that extends over inlet 410b while being spaced from outer surface 402 to define a first fluid path or passage "F1" that is substantially parallel to outer surface 402.

A second flap 434 of the drape 400 is similar to the first flap 432 and has a first end portion 434a connected to the exterior surface 402 of the drape wall 406 adjacent a second side of the second inlet 410b opposite the first side of the second inlet 410 b. The second flap 434 has a second or free end portion 434b that extends over the second end portion 432b of the first flap 432 while being spaced from the second end portion 432b of the first flap 432 to define a second fluid path or channel "F2" that is substantially parallel to the first fluid path "F1". The first fluid path "F1" and the second fluid path "F2" are in fluid communication with each other to allow air to pass from the second fluid path "F2" through the first fluid path "F1" and into the cavity 408 of the first end portion 400a through the second inlet 410 b.

Referring to fig. 12, the first end portion 400a of the drape 400 may include first and second ribs 436, 438, the first and second ribs 436, 438 disposed in and extending parallel to respective first and second paths "F1", F2 "of the second inlet 410 b. In some embodiments, the ribs 436, 438 may extend in any suitable orientation, such as perpendicular, relative to the path "F1", "F2" of the second inlet 410 b. The first and second ribs 436, 438 each have an elongated configuration and a width narrower than the widths of the first and second fluid paths "F1", "F2" so as not to interfere with the flow of air through the first and second paths "F1", "F2". The first rib 436 is disposed between the outer surface 402 of the first end portion 400a of the drape 400 and the first flap 432. A second rib 438 is attached to an inner surface of the second flap 434 so as to be disposed between the first and second flaps 432, 434. The first and second ribs 436, 438 prevent and/or impede the fluid paths "F1", "F2" from collapsing by maintaining the spacing between the first and second flaps 432, 434 and 432 and the outer surface 402 of the first end portion 400a of the drape 400. It is contemplated that the first rib 436 and the second rib 438 may be made of a material that is less flexible than the first flap 432 and the second flap 434.

In some embodiments, instead of using ribs 436, 438 to prevent and/or impede the collapse of fluid paths "F1", "F2", the first "F1" and second path "F2" of the second inlet 410b may include a sponge/mesh open-cell foam, spring, or tube disposed therein, or opposing magnets disposed on opposite sides of the flaps 432, 434.

In use, the drape 400 is positioned over the surgical assembly 100, the robotic arm 2, and the handle portion 12 of the cart 10, as shown in fig. 10. The sterile interface module 112 extends through the first inlet 410a of the drape 400 such that an upper portion of the sterile interface module 112 is located within the cavity 408 of the first end portion 400a and a bottom portion of the sterile interface module 112 is disposed outside of the drape 400. The second inlet 410b of the drape 400 is disposed adjacent a side of the instrument drive unit 110 to align with the opening 131 defined in the instrument drive unit 110. The air flow "F" (from the sterile field) moves into the second fluid path "F2" and then through the first fluid path "F1" and into the cavity 408 of the first end portion 400a through the second inlet 410 b.

As the air flow "F" moves through the second inlet 410b of the drape 400, it enters the IDU110 through the opening 131 defined in the IDU110 and exits the IDU110 through the fan 150 to cool the internal components of the IDU 110. In some embodiments, the air flow "F" may first enter the IDU110 through the fan 150 and exit through the opening 131 of the IDU110 or other opening of the IDU 110. The air flow "F" which has now absorbed the heat generated by the working components of the IDU110 moves through the conduit 312 of the middle portion 400c of the drape 400 and out of the second end portion 400b of the drape through the outlet 418 of the second end portion 400b and out into the non-sterile field. In some embodiments, air enters the drape 400 not only through the second inlet 410b, but also through the first inlet 410a and the second inlet 410 b.

Referring to fig. 13-20, a surgical assembly 100 of a surgical system 1, which is configured to couple with or to a robotic arm 2 or 3 (fig. 2), generally includes an IDU110, a sterile interface module 112, and an electromechanical surgical instrument 130 (fig. 2). As briefly mentioned above, the IDU110 transmits power and actuation forces from its motor 114 to a driven member (not shown) of the electromechanical surgical instrument 130 to ultimately drive movement of components of an end effector of the electromechanical surgical instrument 130, e.g., movement of a blade (not shown) and/or closing and opening of jaw members of the end effector, actuation or firing of a stapler, and/or actuation or firing of an electrosurgical energy-based instrument, etc. The motor component 114 of the IDU110 is rotated by a motor "M" disposed in the IDU110 and transmits its rotational motion to the electromechanical surgical instrument 130.

Referring to fig. 13-15E, the IDU110 includes a housing cover 113 coupled to the rail 40 of the surgical robotic arm 2. The housing cover 113 of the IDU110 conceals, covers, and protects the internal components of the IDU 110. The housing cover 113 of the IDU110 can have a generally cylindrical configuration, but in some embodiments the housing cover 113 can take on a variety of configurations, such as square, triangular, elongated, curved, semi-cylindrical, and the like. As mentioned above, the housing cover 113 protects or shields the various components of the IDU110, including the motor components 114 and the flexible spool assembly 160 that transmit power and data to the components of the IDU 110.

The motor assembly 114 of the IDU110 can contain four motors, e.g., canister motors, etc., each having a drive shaft 121 configured to engage with a corresponding drive 185 (fig. 17A) of the sterile interface module 112. Although the IDU110 is shown as having four motors, it is contemplated that the IDU110 can include any suitable number of motors. The drive shaft 121 of the IDU110 has a non-circular cross-sectional profile (e.g., generally D-shaped, etc.). The four motors of the motor assembly 114 are arranged in a rectangular form such that their respective drive shafts 121 are all parallel to each other and all extend in the same direction. As the motors of the motor assembly 114 are actuated, the rotation of the respective drive shafts 121 is transmitted to the gears or couplings of the drive assembly of the surgical instrument 130 through the respective drive transmission shafts 185 of the sterile interface module 112 to actuate the various functions of the surgical instrument 130. .

Referring to fig. 14 and 15A-15E, the IDU110 defines a plurality of inlets or openings 117 in its bottom portion 110 b. The opening 117 of the IDU110 is in fluid communication with a corresponding channel 180 (fig. 17A-17C) defined in the sterile interface module 112 such that air enters the IDU110 from the sterile interface module 112 through the opening 117 of the IDU 110. The IDU110 defines a plurality of channels 119 (fig. 15A-15C) extending longitudinally between the opposing ends 110a, 110b of the IDU 110. Specifically, the channel 119 is in fluid communication with the opening 117 defined in the bottom portion 110b of the IDU110, and terminates adjacent to the fan 150 of the IDU110 at the top portion 110a of the IDU 110. Passages 119 are disposed between the motors of the motor assembly 114 to provide for the passage of air therethrough to cool the motor assembly 114. The channel 119 also extends along the elongated flexible circuit board 127 of the IDU and the connection 129 of the IDU110 to provide access to the heat generated by the elongated flexible circuit board 127 and the connection 129 connected to the elongated flexible circuit board 127. The channel 119 terminates within a central cavity 162 defined in the flexible spool assembly 160 such that air may pass through the central cavity 162 to cool the flexible spool assembly 160.

The IDU110 includes a fan 150 disposed within a top or proximal portion 110a thereof and is located above a flexible spool assembly 160. As shown in fig. 16A, the fan 150 is a radial blower. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 16B, the fan 150 may be in the form of an axial fan. It is contemplated that any other suitable fan may be used, such as a centrifugal fan, a diaphragm or piston actuated air pump, a peristaltic pump, a thermal chimney, a centrifugal pump, a venturi pump implemented by an air compressor, or the like. The fan 150 sits on top of the flexible spool assembly 160 and is in fluid communication with the central cavity 162 of the flexible spool assembly 160 such that the fan 150 receives or draws air from the central cavity 162 of the flexible spool assembly 160 such that the air passes through the channels 119 of the IDU 110. The fan 150 creates a negative pressure within the cavity 208 of the first end portion 200a of the drape 200 to draw air into the drape 200.

The fan 150 may be coupled to, or in communication with, a processor, such as the control device 4 (fig. 1). The fan 150 may also be in communication with a temperature sensor, an integrated circuit, a central processor, a motor, a resistor, a strain gauge, a thermistor, or a pressure sensor, all disposed within any component of the surgical assembly 100 or in the drape 200, 300, or 400. The control device 4 is configured to adjust the speed of the fan 150 based on the orientation of the robotic arm 2. For example, if the robotic arm 2 is in a folded state where the overall length of the robotic arm 2 is reduced, the speed of the fan 150 may be reduced due to the reduced distance that air travels through one of the drapes 200, 300, or 400. If the robotic arm 2 is in an extended state, in which the overall length of the robotic arm 2 is increased, the speed of the fan 150 may be increased to account for the greater distance air must travel through the drape 200, 300, or 400. The control device 4 may detect whether the robot arm 2 is in the folded state or the extended state using strain gauges attached at joints of the robot arm 2.

The control device 4 may also be configured to adjust the speed of the fan 150 based on the pressure or temperature sensed by the pressure and temperature sensors. For example, the speed of the fan 150 may be increased as the temperature in the drape 200, 300, or 400 increases, and the speed of the fan 150 may be decreased as the temperature decreases. In some embodiments, the speed of the fan 150 may also be adjusted based on the ambient temperature outside of the drape 200, 300, or 400. The control device 4 may measure the temperature within the drape 200, 300, or 400 using various sensors that provide feedback to the control device 4 regarding various conditions of the drape. For example, the drape 200, 300, 400 may include thermal sensors disposed at various portions of the drape 200, 300, or 400.

In other embodiments, the control device 4 may be in communication with a sensor that senses the temperature of a component of the surgical assembly 100 (e.g., a microprocessor, an integrated component, a motor controller, a sense resistor, a strain gauge, or a motor winding) or measures the current/power used by a component of the surgical assembly 100 (e.g., a microprocessor, an integrated component, a motor controller, a sense resistor, a strain gauge, or a motor winding).

The top portion 113a of the housing cover 113 can define a plurality of vents or slits 152 therein to allow air to be diverted from the IDU 110. The fan 150 is configured to generate a negative pressure that draws air through the sterile interface module 112 into the channel 119 defined in the IDU110, through the motor assembly 114 and then the flexible spool assembly 160 and out the top portion 113a of the housing cover 113 through the slot 152, thereby cooling the electronic device during operation of the electronic device and maintaining a constant negative pressure through the IDU 110.

Referring to fig. 17A-20, as mentioned above, the surgical assembly 100 may further include a sterile interface module 112 for selectively interconnecting the IDU110 and the electromechanical surgical instrument 130. The electromechanical surgical instrument 130 may be laterally coupled (e.g., side-loaded) to the sterile interface module 112 of the robotic surgical assembly 100 or laterally decoupled from the sterile interface module 112 of the robotic surgical assembly 100. In general, the sterile interface module 112 is used to provide an interface between the bottom portion 110b (i.e., the distal end) of the instrument drive unit 110 and an electromechanical surgical instrument, such as the electromechanical surgical instrument 130. The interface advantageously maintains sterility, provides a means of transmitting electrical communication between the IDU110 and the electromechanical surgical instrument 130, provides structure configured to transfer rotational forces from the IDU110 to the electromechanical surgical instrument 130 to perform the functions of the electromechanical surgical instrument 130, and/or provides structure to selectively attach/remove the electromechanical surgical instrument 130 to/from the IDU110 (e.g., for rapid instrument replacement).

The sterile interface module 112 defines a plurality of openings 180 in a collar 182 of the sterile interface module 112. The opening 180 is disposed circumferentially around a collar 182 of the sterile interface module 112. The collar 182 is configured to protrude distally from the inlet 210 of the drape 200, the first inlet 310a of the drape 300, or the first inlet 410a of the drape 400, so that air may enter the opening 180 of the sterile interface module 112 and enter the drape 200, 300, or 400, depending on which drape is used. The sterile interface module 112 includes a central passage 184 defined through a proximal surface thereof and is in fluid communication with the opening 180 of the sterile interface module 112. The central channel 184 has a key-shaped configuration to help align and orient the mating with the bottom portion 110b of the IDU 110. In some embodiments, the central channel 184 may take the shape of any suitable symbol.

Upon connecting the sterile interface module 112 to the bottom portion 110b of the IDU110 (fig. 14), the opening 117 defined through the bottom portion 110b of the IDU110 is in fluid communication with the central channel 184 of the sterile interface module 112. As such, air may enter the sterile interface module 112 from outside the drape 200, 300, or 400 through the opening 180 of the sterile interface module 112 and enter the IDU110 through the opening 117 of the IDU to cool the internal components of the IDU110, e.g., the motor assembly 114, the elongated flexible circuit board 127, the connection wires 129, and/or the flexible spool assembly 160.

In operation, the proximal portion 42 of the surgical robotic arm 2 is coupled to the cart 10, and the instrument drive unit 110 (with the sterile interface module 112 attached thereto) is coupled to the slide rail 40 of the surgical robotic arm 2. Any of the drapes 200, 300, 400 described herein may be used to cover the surgical robotic assembly 100, robotic arm 2, and cart 10. For example, the drape 300 may be used to cover the surgical assembly 100 (e.g., the IDU110 and the top portion of the sterile interface module 112), the surgical robotic arm 2, and the handle portion 12 of the cart 10.

Specifically, the outlet 318 of the second end portion 300b of the drape 300 is placed over the surgical assembly 100 and pulled in a proximal direction to position the surgical assembly 100 (including the slide rail 40) in the cavity 308 of the first end portion 300a, and the elongate members 2a, 2b, 2c of the surgical robotic arm 2 in the conduit 312 of the intermediate portion 300c of the drape 300. The movement of the drape 300 along the proximal side of the surgical robotic arm 2 continues until the elastic bands, tension cords, hook and loop fasteners, tension cords, tie straps, bungee hooks, magnetic material, etc. of the second end portion 300b of the drape 300 pass over the handle portion 12 of the cart 10, thereby seating the handle portion 12 of the cart 10 in the cavity 316 of the second end portion 300b of the drape 300.

Also in use, the collar 182 of the sterile interface module 112 passes through the first inlet 310a of the first end portion 300a of the drape 300 to expose the opening 180 defined in the sterile interface module 112 to the environment outside the drape 300. The first inlet 310a of the drape 300 is secured to the sterile interface module 112 using a ring (e.g., a plastic ring (not explicitly shown)) disposed in the drape 300 surrounding the first inlet 310a, or using elastic bands, hook-and-loop fasteners, tie-down bands, elastic hooks, magnetic materials, etc., surrounding the first inlet 310 a. The ring of the drape 300 allows the sterile interface module 112 to rotate relative to and within the first inlet 310a of the drape 300 while maintaining the sterile interface module 112 axially fixed therein. The second end portion 300b of the drape 300 may be secured to the cart 10 by: allowing the elastic bands of the second end portion 300b of the drape 300 to be biased inwardly to engage the handle portion 12 of the cart 10, or by a tether tensioning the second end portion 300b of the drape 300 around the posts 14 of the cart 10, depending on whether the second end portion 300b of the drape 300 has elastic bands and/or tethers.

With the drape 300 covering each of the surgical assembly 100, the surgical robotic arm 2, and the handle portion 12 of the cart 10, the surgical instrument 130 may be attached to the sterile interface module 112. During operation of the surgical assembly 100, the fan 150 of the IDU110 and/or the fan of the cart 10 may be activated to create an air path or negative pressure through the drape 300. Specifically, the fan 150 of the IDU110 first creates a negative pressure in the channel 119 of the IDU110 that drives air into the opening 180 defined in the collar 182 of the sterile interface module 112. The air travels through the opening 180 of the sterile interface module 112 and enters the channel 119 of the IDU110 through the central channel 184 of the sterile interface module 112. As the air passes through the central channel 184 of the sterile interface module 112, the air passes through the first inlet 310a of the drape 300.

In addition to air entering the drape 300 through the first inlet 310a, air may also enter the drape 300 through the second inlet 310 b. Specifically, upon activation of the fan 150 of the IDU110, a negative pressure is created in the channel 119, driving air into the IDU110 inlet through the first and second fluid paths "F1" and "F2" of the second inlet 310b through the side opening 131 defined in the housing 113 of the IDU 110.

As the air enters the channels 119 of the IDU110, the air in the IDU110 absorbs heat generated by the internal components of the IDU110 (e.g., the motor assembly 114, the circuit board 127, the connecting wires 129, the flexible spool assembly 160, etc.) and exits the IDU110 through the vents 152 of the IDU 110. The fan of the cart 10, the fan of the robotic surgical arm 2, and/or the fan of the second end portion 300b of the drape 300 may also be activated to draw heated air away from the cavity 308 of the first end portion 300a of the drape 300, through the conduit 312 of the middle portion 300c of the drape 300, and out of the second end portion 300b of the drape 300 through the outlet 318 of the drape 300. If the internal components of the IDU110 reach a temperature above the threshold temperature, the speed of the fan 150 of the IDU110 and/or any other fan attached to the drape 300, robotic arm 2, or cart 10 may be increased to cause air to flow through the drape 300 at a faster rate. Because the fluid path defined through the IDU110 takes a tortuous path therethrough (e.g., twists, turns, and is generally non-linear), air can pass therethrough while preventing liquids from passing therethrough.

Referring to fig. 21, yet another embodiment of a drape 500 for covering portions of the surgical assembly 100, the surgical robotic arm 2, and the robotic arm cart 10 is provided. The drape 500 of fig. 21 differs from other drapes 200, 300, and 400 of the present disclosure by having a tubular member, such as a hose 520 extending along its length. The hose 520 is configured to facilitate movement of heated air from the first end portion 500a of the drape 500 toward the second end portion 500b of the drape 500 and out of the drape 500.

The drape 500 includes a drape wall 506 having an exterior surface 502 and an interior surface 504. The inner surface 504 at the first end portion 500a of the drape 500 defines a cavity 508 therein. The cavity 508 of the first end portion 500a of the drape 500 is sized to receive or enclose the surgical assembly 100 (e.g., the instrument drive unit 110 and the slide rail 40). The first end portion 500a of the drape 500 defines an inlet or channel 510 extending through the outer surface 502 and the inner surface 504 of the drape 500. The inlet 510 is in fluid communication with the cavity 508 of the first end portion 500 a. As such, the inlet 510 provides an inlet for air flow into the drape 500 to cool the components of the surgical assembly 500. The inlet 510 has a generally circular or annular shape that is sized to form a seal with the sterile interface module 112 of the surgical assembly 100.

The intermediate portion 500c of the drape 500 is dimensioned to enclose or house the elongate members 2a, 2b, 2c of the surgical robotic arm 2. In particular, the intermediate portion 500c of the drape 500 defines an elongate conduit 512, the elongate conduit 512 extending longitudinally through the intermediate portion 500c thereof and being sized for receiving a surgical robotic arm, such as robotic arm 2. The conduit 512 of the intermediate portion 500c has a length that is dimensioned to accommodate the robotic arm 2, in an embodiment at least the entire length of the robotic arm 2 when each elongate member 2a, 2b, 2c of the robotic arm 2 is in the extended state.

The second end portion 500b of the drape 500 defines a cavity 516 therein. The cavity 516 of the second end portion 500b is sized to receive or enclose at least the proximal portion 42 of the robotic arm 2 and/or one or more portions of the robotic cart 10. The second end portion 500b of the drape 500 has an outlet 518 extending through the drape wall 506 of the drape 500. As such, the outlet 518 of the second end portion 500b is in fluid communication with the cavity 516 of the second end portion 500b of the drape 500. The outlet 518 of the drape 500 has a generally circular or annular shape that is sized to fit entirely over the handle portion 12 of the cart 10 or the cart 10.

As mentioned above, the drape 500 has a hose 520 integrated into the drape wall 506 and extending along its length. The hose 520 is configured to communicate air that has been heated from the first end portion 500a of the drape 500 and out of the drape 500 through the outlet 518 at the second end portion 500b during operation of the surgical assembly 100 (e.g., IDU 110). The hose 520 may be made of a thermally conductive material, such as woven metal, graphite, copper, or aluminum, to facilitate heat transfer out of the drape 500. The hose 520 has a distal opening 520a and a proximal opening 520b and a central passage (not expressly shown) extending therebetween. The distal opening 520a of the hose 520 is disposed within the cavity 508 of the first end portion 500a of the drape 500, while the proximal opening 520b is disposed outside of the drape 500, adjacent to the second end portion 500b of the drape 500. In some embodiments, the proximal and distal openings 520a, 520b of the hose 520 may be disposed at various locations of the drape 500, e.g., the proximal opening 520b of the hose 520 may be disposed within the cavity 516 of the second end portion 500b of the drape 500 rather than outside the cavity 516. The distal opening 520a can be fitted to the fan 150 of the IDU110 such that air is pulled by the fan 150 and through the fan 150 and into the hose 520 through the distal opening 520 a.

The hoses 520 of the drape 500 may be attached to various portions of the surgical assembly 100, robotic arm 2, and robotic arm cart 10 such that the hoses 520 travel along and carry heat away from each portion of the surgical assembly 100, robotic arm 2, and robotic arm cart 10. For example, the hose 520 may be attached to these components of the surgical system 1 using hook and loop fasteners, clips, magnetic materials, and the like. In some embodiments, instead of integrating the hose 520 into the drape wall 506 of the drape, the hose 520 may be separate and apart from the drape 520 and attached to various portions of the surgical assembly 100, robotic arm 2, and mechanical cart 10 before these components are covered by the drape 500.

The hose 520 may be configured to couple at its proximal opening 520b with a vacuum/pump 525 (e.g., any of the pump/vacuum pumps described above) to pull air through the hose 520. Specifically, the hose 520 may include an air hose plug 527 fluidly coupled to the proximal opening 520b of the hose 520 for coupling to an auxiliary air hose 529 extending from the vacuum/pump 525. The vacuum/pump 525 may be supported on the cart 10 and positioned outside of the drape 500. When the air hose 529 is attached to the air hose plug 525 of the hose 520, activation of the vacuum/pump 525 will draw air through the hose 520 to carry the hot air accumulated in the drape 500 out of the drape 500.

It should be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein. Accordingly, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of the various embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.