Patent ID: 8834465
Filing Date: 2014-09-16
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An interface mechanism of a modular laparoscopic hand tool for attachment between a handle portion and a distal portion of the hand tool, the interface mechanism comprising: a substrate formed from a cylindrical shaft segment of a rigid material having a length and diameter of substantially equal dimensions and defining a channel therethrough in which a mechanical connection between the handle portion and the distal portion can be made; a first latching mechanism configured to latch the shaft segment to the handle portion of the modular laparoscopic hand tool; a second latching mechanism configured to latch the shaft segment to the distal portion of the modular laparoscopic hand tool; and means for conducting electrical signals from the distal portion to the handle portion through the interface mechanism, wherein the means for conducting electrical signals comprises a pair of electrical conductors embedded in a wall of the shaft segment to be radially spaced from the channel of the shaft segment and that extend the length of the interface mechanism, and wherein the interface mechanism is an adapter that when connected between the handle portion and the distal portion provides support for forming the rigid modular laparoscopic hand tool.