Patent ID: 7780055
Filing Date: 2010-08-24
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A disposable loading unit comprising: a body portion defining a longitudinal axis and being adapted to releasably engage a surgical instrument; a tool assembly supported on a distal end of the body portion; a drive assembly supported within the body portion; a locking member supported on the body portion, the locking member being movable from a first position engaged with the drive assembly to a second position disengaged from the drive assembly; and a locking member actuator operably associated with the locking member, the locking member actuator being supported on the body portion such that linear movement of the locking member actuator from a retracted position to an advanced position in relation to the body portion effects movement of the locking member from the first position to the second position; wherein linear movement of the locking member actuator in relation to the body portion effects transverse movement of the locking member; wherein the locking member includes a cam member and the locking member actuator includes a cam slot, the cam member being positioned within the cam slot such that linear movement of the cam member along the longitudinal axis in relation to the cam slot effects transverse movement of the locking member.