Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to adapter assemblies for use with and to electrically and mechanically interconnect electromechanical surgical devices and surgical loading units, and to surgical systems including hand held electromechanical surgical devices and adapter assemblies for connecting surgical loading units to the hand held electromechanical surgical devices.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/017,610, filed Jun. 26, 2014, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Technical Field 
     The present disclosure relates to adapter assemblies for use in surgical systems. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to adapter assemblies for use with and to electrically and mechanically interconnect electromechanical surgical devices and surgical loading units, and to surgical systems including hand held electromechanical surgical devices and adapter assemblies for connecting surgical loading units to the hand held electromechanical surgical devices. 
     2. Background of Related Art 
     A number of surgical device manufacturers have developed product lines with proprietary drive systems for operating and/or manipulating electromechanical surgical devices. In many instances the electromechanical surgical devices include a handle assembly, which is reusable, and disposable loading units and/or single use loading units or the like that are selectively connected to the handle assembly prior to use and then disconnected from the handle assembly following use in order to be disposed of or in some instances sterilized for re-use. 
     In certain instances, an adapter assembly is used to interconnect an electromechanical surgical device with any one of a number of surgical loading units to establish a mechanical and/or electrical connection therebetween. Due to the complexity of the adapter assembly and the electromechanical surgical device, it is important to ensure that all electrical and mechanical connections therebetween can be easily, reliably and repeatedly accomplished. 
     Accordingly, a need exists for an adapter assembly that provides a robust way of electromechanically interconnecting with the surgical device. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure relates to adapter assemblies for use with and to electrically and mechanically interconnect electromechanical surgical devices and surgical loading units, and to surgical systems including hand held electromechanical surgical devices and adapter assemblies for connecting surgical loading units to the hand held electromechanical surgical devices. 
     According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an adapter assembly for selectively interconnecting a surgical loading unit that is configured to perform a function and a surgical device that is configured to actuate the loading unit, is provided. The loading unit may include at least one axially translatable drive member, and the surgical device may include at least one rotatable drive shaft. The adapter assembly includes a housing configured and adapted for connection with the surgical device and to be in operative communication with each rotatable drive shaft of the surgical device; an outer tube having a proximal end supported by the housing and a distal end configured and adapted for connection with the loading unit, wherein the distal end of the outer tube is in operative communication with each of the axially translatable drive member of the loading unit; the force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly for interconnecting a respective one drive shaft of the surgical device and a respective one axially translatable drive member of the loading unit; and an electrical assembly supported within at least one of the housing and the outer tube. The electrical assembly includes a proximal electrical assembly and a distal electrical assembly. The proximal electrical assembly is configured to electrically communicate with the surgical device. The proximal electrical assembly is rotatably fixed with respect to the surgical device, and the proximal electrical assembly includes a plurality of electrical contact rings disposed around a slip ring. The distal electrical assembly is disposed in electrical communication with the loading unit, and is rotatable with respect to the proximal electrical assembly. The distal electrical assembly includes a plurality of electrical contacts disposed in mechanical cooperation with a contact housing. Each electrical contact is configured to contact and maintain an electrical connection with one of the plurality of electrical contact rings of the proximal electrical assembly during rotation of the distal electrical assembly with respect to the proximal electrical assembly. 
     In disclosed embodiments, each electrical contact of the distal electrical assembly is curved along at least a majority of its length. It is further disclosed that each electrical contact of the distal electrical assembly includes a continuous curve in a first direction, and the plurality of electrical contact rings of the proximal electrical assembly are curved in a second direction. Here, the first and second directions are opposite from each other. 
     It is further disclosed that each electrical contact of the distal electrical assembly includes a leg and a foot, with the leg extending from the contact housing, and the foot extending at an angle from the leg. A portion of the foot configured to contact one of the plurality of electrical contact rings. The angle is between about 100° and about 160°. 
     The present disclosure also includes embodiments where each electrical contact of the distal electrical assembly includes a leg and two feet. The leg extends from the contact housing, each foot extends at an angle from the leg in opposite directions, and a portion of each foot is configured to contact one of the plurality of electrical contact rings. The angle is between about 100° and about 160°. 
     In disclosed embodiments, each electrical contact of the distal electrical assembly includes a leg, an ankle and an arcuate foot. The leg extends from the contact housing, the ankle extends at a first angle from the leg, and the arcuate foot extends at a second angle from the ankle. At least two portions of the arcuate foot are configured to contact one of the plurality of electrical contact rings. The first angle is between about 150° and about 175°, and the second angle is between about 10° and about 60°. Here, it is further disclosed that the arcuate foot includes a radius of curvature that is less than or equal to a radius of curvature of the plurality of electrical contact rings. 
     It is further disclosed that each electrical contact of the distal electrical assembly includes a leg, two feet extending from the leg in an opposite directions, and a flexible contact extending between the two feet. At least a portion of the flexible contact is configured to contact one of the plurality of electrical contact rings. Here, it is disclosed that the flexible contact is movable with respect to at least one foot. 
     In disclosed embodiments, each electrical contact of the distal electrical assembly includes a leg and a ring. The leg extends from the contact housing, and the ring extends from the leg. The ring is configured to contact one of the plurality of electrical contact rings in an arc of greater than 180°. Here, it is disclosed that the ring forms between about 180° and about 360° of a circle. 
     The present disclosure also includes embodiments where the contact housing includes a proximal leg configured to engage a proximal-most edge of the slip ring, and a distal leg configured to engage a distal-most edge of the slip ring. Here, it is disclosed that each leg of the contact housing includes a stepped portion. At least part of the stepped portion is configured to engage a radially-outermost portion of the slip ring. 
     In disclosed embodiments, the distal electrical assembly further includes a guide configured to help maintain a position of the contact housing with respect to the slip ring. Here, it is disclosed that the guide is configured to help maintain a longitudinal position and a radial position of the contact housing with respect to the slip ring. It is further disclosed that the guide includes an opening for receiving at least a portion of the contact housing therein, and that the guide includes a flexible member for extending between a pair of projections of the contact housing and for abutting a radially-outer surface of at least one of the projections of the contact housing. Additionally, embodiments disclose that the guide includes a first post extending adjacent a first portion of the opening for extending between a pair of projections of the contact housing, and that the guide includes a second post extending adjacent a second portion of the opening for engaging a portion of the contact housing. The first portion and the second portion are on opposite sides of the opening. The disclosure also includes that the contact housing includes at least one projection, and that the guide includes at least one flexible tab for engaging a radially-outer surface of the at least one projection of the contact housing. Further, it is disclosed that the contact housing includes at least two projections, and that the guide includes at least two flexible tabs. Each flexible tab is configured to engage a radially-outer surface of one of the at least two projections of the contact housing. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of an adapter assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, interconnected between an exemplary electromechanical surgical device and an end effector assembly; 
         FIG. 1B  is a perspective view illustrating an attachment of a proximal end of the adapter assembly to a distal end of the electromechanical surgical device; 
         FIG. 2A  is a front, perspective view of the adapter assembly of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2B  is a rear, perspective view of the adapter assembly of  FIG. 2A ; 
         FIG. 3  is a top plan view of the adapter assembly of  FIGS. 2A and 2B ; 
         FIG. 4  is a side, elevational view of the adapter assembly of  FIGS. 2A and 2B ; 
         FIG. 5  is a rear, perspective view of the adapter assembly of  FIGS. 2A and 2B , with some parts thereof separated; 
         FIG. 6  is a rear, perspective view of the adapter assembly of  FIGS. 2A and 2B , with most parts thereof separated; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of an articulation assembly of the adapter assembly of  FIGS. 2A and 2B ; 
         FIG. 8  is an enlarged, perspective view, with parts separated, of the articulation assembly of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the articulation assembly of  FIG. 7 , shown in a first orientation; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the articulation assembly of  FIG. 7 , shown in a second orientation; 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional view as taken along section line  11 - 11  of  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 12A  is a perspective view of an electrical assembly of the adapter assembly of  FIGS. 2A and 2B ; 
         FIG. 12B  is a perspective view of the electrical assembly of  FIG. 12A  showing a connector housing separated from a circuit board; 
         FIG. 12C  is a perspective view of the connector housing of  FIG. 12B ; 
         FIG. 12D  is a perspective view of an electrical contact pin of the connector housing of  FIGS. 12B-12C ; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the electrical assembly of  FIG. 12  shown connected to the core housing of the adapter assembly of  FIGS. 2A and 2B ; 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view as taken along section line  14 - 14  of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a slip ring cannula or sleeve of the adapter assembly of  FIGS. 2A and 2B ; 
         FIG. 16  is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of  FIG. 2B , illustrating an inner housing assembly of the adapter assembly of  FIGS. 2A and 2B ; 
         FIG. 17  is a rear, perspective view of the inner housing assembly of  FIG. 16  with an outer knob housing half-section and a proximal cap removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 18  is a rear, perspective view of the inner housing assembly of  FIG. 16  with the outer knob housing, the proximal cap and a bushing plate removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 19  is a rear, perspective view of the inner housing assembly of  FIG. 16  with the outer knob housing, the proximal cap, the bushing plate and an inner housing removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 20  is a rear, perspective view of the an alternative embodiment of inner housing assembly similar to that shown in  FIG. 16  with the outer knob housing and the proximal inner housing removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 21  is a rear, perspective view of the inner housing assembly of  FIG. 20  with the outer knob housing, the proximal inner housing and the articulation assembly removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 22  is a front, perspective view of the inner housing assembly of  FIG. 20  with the outer knob housing, the proximal inner housing and the articulation assembly removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 23  is a front, perspective view of the inner housing assembly of  FIG. 20  with the outer knob housing and the proximal inner housing removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 24  is a cross-sectional view as taken along section line  24 - 24  of  FIG. 2B ; 
         FIG. 25  is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of  FIG. 24 ; 
         FIG. 26  is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of  FIG. 24 , illustrating a lock button being actuated in a proximal direction; 
         FIG. 27  is a cross-sectional view as taken along section line  27 - 27  of  FIG. 2B ; 
         FIG. 28  is a cross-sectional view as taken along section line  27 - 27  of  FIG. 2B , illustrating actuation of the articulation assembly in a distal direction; 
         FIG. 29  is a cross-sectional view as taken along section line  29 - 29  of  FIG. 28 ; 
         FIG. 30  is a cross-sectional view as taken along section line  30 - 30  of  FIG. 28 ; 
         FIG. 31  is a cross-sectional view as taken along section line  31 - 31  of  FIG. 28 ; 
         FIG. 32  is a rear, perspective view of a proximal inner housing hub according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 33  is a front, perspective view of the proximal inner housing hub of  FIG. 32 ; 
         FIG. 34  is a front, perspective view of the proximal inner housing hub of  FIGS. 32 and 33  illustrating a first and a second force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly and a reinforcing assembly associated therewith; 
         FIG. 35  is a front, perspective view of a plate bushing of the proximal inner housing assembly of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 36  is a rear, perspective view of the plate bushing of  FIG. 35 ; 
         FIG. 37  is a rear, perspective view of the proximal inner housing assembly illustrating the plate bushing of  FIGS. 35 and 36  attached thereto; 
         FIG. 38  is a rear, perspective view of the proximal inner housing assembly of  FIG. 37  with connector sleeves removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 39  is a rear, perspective view of the proximal inner housing assembly of  FIG. 37  with connector sleeves removed therefrom and the plate bushing shown in phantom; 
         FIG. 40  is a rear, perspective view of the proximal inner housing assembly of  FIG. 37  with connector sleeves removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 41  is a rear, perspective of the inner housing assembly of  FIG. 37  illustrating a support plate, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, coupled thereto; 
         FIG. 42  is a rear, perspective of the inner housing assembly of  FIG. 41  with the support plate removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 43  is a front, perspective view of an inner housing assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with the outer knob housing, the proximal inner housing removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 44  is a rear, perspective view of the inner housing assembly of  FIG. 43  with the outer knob housing, the proximal inner housing and the articulation assembly removed therefrom; 
         FIG. 45  is a perspective view of a bracket assembly of the inner housing assembly of  FIGS. 43 and 44 ; 
         FIG. 46  is a perspective view of a reinforcing sleeve for use with the inner housing assembly of  FIGS. 43 and 44 ; 
         FIG. 47  is a perspective view of the inner housing assembly of  FIGS. 43 and 44 , illustrating the reinforcing sleeve of  FIG. 46  supported thereon; 
         FIG. 48  is a perspective view, with parts separated, of an exemplary loading unit for use with the surgical device and the adapter of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 49  is a perspective view of an adapter assembly in accordance with the present disclosure with several features shown in phantom; 
         FIG. 50  is a perspective view of proximal and distal electrical assemblies of the adapter assembly of  FIG. 49 ; 
         FIG. 51  is an enlarged view of the area of detail indicated in  FIG. 50  showing engagement between the proximal and distal electrical assemblies of  FIG. 50 ; 
         FIG. 52  is a perspective view of the distal electrical assembly of  FIGS. 49 and 50 ; 
         FIG. 53  is an enlarged view of the area of detail indicated in  FIG. 52 ; 
         FIG. 54  is a perspective view illustrating the engagement between portions of the proximal and distal electrical assemblies of  FIGS. 49-53 ; 
         FIG. 55  is a perspective view of the portion of the distal electrical assembly shown in  FIG. 54 ; 
         FIGS. 56A-60A  are side views of the proximal electrical assembly and various embodiments of the portion of the distal electrical assembly that engages the proximal electrical assembly; 
         FIGS. 56B-60B  are perspective views of  FIGS. 56A-60A , respectively; 
         FIG. 61  is a perspective view of a guide in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 62  is a perspective view of a portion of the surgical device of the present disclosure including the guide of  FIG. 61 ; 
         FIG. 63  is a perspective view of a guide in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 64  is a perspective view of a portion of the surgical device of the present disclosure including the guide of  FIG. 63 ; 
         FIG. 65  is a perspective view of a portion of a guide in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 66  is a perspective view of a portion of the surgical device of the present disclosure including the guide of  FIG. 65 ; 
         FIG. 67  is a perspective view of a portion of a guide in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 68  is a perspective view of a portion of the surgical device of the present disclosure including the guide of  FIG. 67 ; 
         FIG. 69  is a perspective view of a housing in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 70  is a perspective view of a portion of the surgical device of the present disclosure including the housing of  FIG. 69  engaged with the guide of  FIG. 60 ; 
         FIG. 71  is a perspective view of a guide in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 72  is a perspective view of a portion of the surgical device of the present disclosure including the guide of  FIG. 71 ; 
         FIG. 73  is a perspective view of a portion of a guide in accordance with still another embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 74  is a perspective view of a portion of the surgical device of the present disclosure including the guide of  FIG. 73 ; 
         FIG. 75  is a perspective view of a spacer of the surgical device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIGS. 76A and 76B  are perspective views of a slip ring contact holder for use with the spacer of  FIG. 75  in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; 
         FIGS. 77 and 78  are perspective views of the slip ring contact holder of  FIGS. 76A and 76B  engaged with the spacer of  FIG. 75 ; 
         FIG. 79  is a perspective view of a disclosed embodiment of a slip ring contact holder engaged with the spacer of  FIG. 75 ; 
         FIG. 80  is a perspective view of a slip ring cannula in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 81  is a perspective view of the slip ring cannula of  FIG. 80  shown over an outer tube of the adapter assembly; 
         FIGS. 82 and 83  are perspective views of the slip ring cannula of  FIGS. 80 and 81  shown over the outer tube of the adapter assembly and engaged with a portion of the inner housing assembly; 
         FIG. 84  is a perspective view of a portion of the adapter assembly including an alternate embodiment of a slip ring contact holder in accordance with the present disclosure; and 
         FIG. 85  is a cross-sectional view of the adapter assembly including the slip ring contact holder of  FIG. 84 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     Embodiments of the presently disclosed surgical devices, adapter assemblies, and loading unit detection assemblies for surgical devices and/or handle assemblies 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 that portion of the adapter assembly or surgical device, or component thereof, farther from the user, while the term “proximal” refers to that portion of the adapter assembly or surgical device, or component thereof, closer to the user. 
     A surgical device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, is generally designated as  100 , and is in the form of a powered hand held electromechanical instrument configured for selective attachment thereto of a plurality of different end effectors that are each configured for actuation and manipulation by the powered hand held electromechanical surgical instrument. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1A , surgical device  100  is configured for selective connection with an adapter assembly  200 , and, in turn, adapter assembly  200  is configured for selective connection with a loading unit  300  (e.g., an end effector, or multiple- or single-use loading unit; see  FIG. 48 ). Surgical device  100  and adapter assembly  200 , together, may comprise an electromechanical surgical system that is configured and adapted to selectively connect with a loading unit  300  and to actuate loading unit  300 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , surgical device  100  includes a handle housing  102  including a circuit board (not shown), and a drive mechanism (not shown) is situated therein. The circuit board is configured to control the various operations of surgical device  100 . Handle housing  102  defines a cavity therein (not shown) for selective removable receipt of a rechargeable battery (not shown) therein. The battery is configured to supply power to any of the electrical components of surgical device  100 . 
     Handle housing  102  includes an upper housing portion  102   a  which houses various components of surgical device  100 , and a lower hand grip portion  102   b  extending from upper housing portion  102   a . Lower hand grip portion  102   b  may be disposed distally of a proximal-most end of upper housing portion  102   a . The location of lower housing portion  102   b  relative to upper housing portion  102   a  is selected to balance a weight of a surgical device  100  that it is connected to or supporting adapter assembly  200  and/or end effector  300 . 
     Handle housing  102  provides a housing in which the drive mechanism is situated. The drive mechanism is configured to drive shafts and/or gear components in order to perform the various operations of surgical device  100 . In particular, the drive mechanism is configured to drive shafts and/or gear components in order to selectively move a tool assembly  304  of loading unit  300  (see  FIGS. 1A and 48 ) relative to a proximal body portion  302  of loading unit  300 , to rotate loading unit  300  about a longitudinal axis “X” (see  FIG. 1A ) relative to handle housing  102 , to move/approximate an anvil assembly  306  and/or a cartridge assembly  308  of loading unit  300  relative to one another, and/or to fire a stapling and cutting cartridge within cartridge assembly  308  of loading unit  300 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1B , handle housing  102  defines a connecting portion  108  configured to accept a corresponding drive coupling assembly  210  of adapter assembly  200 . Specifically, connecting portion  108  of surgical device  100  has a recess  108   a  that receives a proximal cap  210   a  ( FIGS. 5 and 6 ) of drive coupling assembly  210  of adapter assembly  200  when adapter assembly  200  is mated to surgical device  100 . Connecting portion  108  houses three rotatable drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  which are arranged in a common plane or line with one another. 
     When adapter assembly  200  is mated to surgical device  100 , each of rotatable drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100  couples with a corresponding rotatable connector sleeve  218 ,  220 ,  222  of adapter assembly  200  (see  FIG. 1B ). In this regard, the interface between corresponding first drive connector  118  and first connector sleeve  218 , the interface between corresponding second drive connector  120  and second connector sleeve  220 , and the interface between corresponding third drive connector  122  and third connector sleeve  222  are keyed such that rotation of each of drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100  causes a corresponding rotation of the corresponding connector sleeve  218 ,  220 ,  222  of adapter assembly  200 . 
     The mating of drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100  with connector sleeves  218 ,  220 ,  222  of adapter assembly  200  allows rotational forces to be independently transmitted via each of the three respective connector interfaces. The drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100  are configured to be independently rotated by the drive mechanism of surgical device  100 . In this regard, a function selection module (not shown) of the drive mechanism selects which drive connector or connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100  is to be driven by the motor of surgical device  100 . 
     Since each of drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100  has a keyed and/or substantially non-rotatable interface with respective connector sleeves  218 ,  220 ,  222  of adapter assembly  200 , when adapter assembly  200  is coupled to surgical device  100 , rotational force(s) are selectively transferred from drive connectors of surgical device  100  to adapter assembly  200 . 
     The selective rotation of drive connector(s)  118 ,  120  and/or  122  of surgical device  100  allows surgical device  100  to selectively actuate different functions of loading unit  300 . For example, selective and independent rotation of first drive connector  118  of surgical device  100  corresponds to the selective and independent opening and closing of tool assembly  304  of loading unit  300 , and driving of a stapling/cutting component of tool assembly  304  of loading unit  300 . As an additional example, the selective and independent rotation of second drive connector  120  of surgical device  100  corresponds to the selective and independent articulation of tool assembly  304  of loading unit  300  transverse to longitudinal axis “X” (see  FIG. 1A ). Additionally, for instance, the selective and independent rotation of third drive connector  122  of surgical device  100  corresponds to the selective and independent rotation of loading unit  300  about longitudinal axis “X” (see  FIG. 1A ) relative to handle housing  102  of surgical device  100 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1A , handle housing  102  supports a plurality of finger-actuated control buttons, rocker devices and the like for activating various functions of surgical device  100 . 
     Reference may be made to International Application No. PCT/US2008/077249, filed Sep. 22, 2008 (Inter. Pub. No. WO 2009/039506) and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/622,827, filed on Nov. 20, 2009, the entire content of each of which being incorporated herein by reference, for a detailed description of various internal components of and operation of exemplary electromechanical, hand-held, powered surgical instrument  100 . 
     With particular reference to  FIGS. 1B-2B , adapter assembly  200  includes an outer knob housing  202  and an outer tube  206  extending from a distal end of knob housing  202 . Knob housing  202  and outer tube  206  are configured and dimensioned to house the components of adapter assembly  200 . Outer tube  206  is dimensioned for endoscopic insertion, in particular, outer tube  206  is passable through a typical trocar port, cannula or the like. Knob housing  202  is dimensioned to not enter the trocar port, cannula of the like. Knob housing  202  is configured and adapted to connect to connecting portion  108  of handle housing  102  of surgical device  100 . 
     Adapter assembly  200  is configured to convert a rotation of either of drive connectors  118 ,  120  and  122  of surgical device  100  into axial translation useful for operating a drive assembly  360  and an articulation link  366  of loading unit  300 , as illustrated in  FIG. 48  and as will be described in greater detail below. As illustrated in  FIGS. 5, 6, 13, 14, 17, 18, 20, 25-34  and  37 - 40 , adapter assembly  200  includes a proximal inner housing assembly  204  rotatably supporting a first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212 , a second rotatable proximal drive shaft  214 , and a third rotatable proximal drive shaft  216  therein. Each proximal drive shaft  212 ,  214 ,  216  functions as a rotation receiving member to receive rotational forces from respective drive shafts of surgical device  100 , as described in greater detail below. 
     As described briefly above, inner housing assembly  210  of shaft assembly  200  is also configured to rotatably support first, second and third connector sleeves  218 ,  220  and  222 , respectively, arranged in a common plane or line with one another. Each of connector sleeves  218 ,  220 ,  222  is configured to mate with respective first, second and third drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100 , as described above. Each of connector sleeves  218 ,  220 ,  222  is further configured to mate with a proximal end of respective first, second and third proximal drive shafts  212 ,  214 ,  216 . 
     Inner housing assembly  210  also includes, as illustrated in  FIGS. 6, 17, 27 and 28 , a first, a second and a third biasing member  224 ,  226  and  228  disposed distally of respective first, second and third connector sleeves  218 ,  220 ,  222 . Each of biasing members  224 ,  226  and  228  is disposed about respective first, second and third rotatable proximal drive shaft  212 ,  214  and  216 . Biasing members  224 ,  226  and  228  act on respective connector sleeves  218 ,  220  and  222  to help maintain connector sleeves  218 ,  220  and  222  engaged with the distal end of respective drive rotatable drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100  when adapter assembly  200  is connected to surgical device  100 . 
     In particular, first, second and third biasing members  224 ,  226  and  228  function to bias respective connector sleeves  218 ,  220  and  222  in a proximal direction. In this manner, during assembly of adapter assembly  200  to surgical device  100 , if first, second and or third connector sleeves  218 ,  220  and/or  222  is/are misaligned with the drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100 , first, second and/or third biasing member(s)  224 ,  226  and/or  228  are compressed. Thus, when surgical device  100  is operated, drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100  will rotate and first, second and/or third biasing member(s)  224 ,  226  and/or  228  will cause respective first, second and/or third connector sleeve(s)  218 ,  220  and/or  222  to slide back proximally, effectively coupling drive connectors  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100  to first, second and/or third proximal drive shaft(s)  212 ,  214  and  216  of inner housing assembly  210 . 
     Adapter assembly  200  includes a plurality of force/rotation transmitting/converting assemblies, each disposed within inner housing assembly  204  and outer tube  206 . Each force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly is configured and adapted to transmit/convert a speed/force of rotation (e.g., increase or decrease) of first, second and third rotatable drive connectors  118 ,  120  and  122  of surgical instrument  100  before transmission of such rotational speed/force to loading unit  300 . 
     Specifically, as illustrated in  FIG. 6 , adapter assembly  200  includes a first, a second and a third force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  240 ,  250 ,  260 , respectively, disposed within inner housing  208  and outer tube  206 . Each force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  240 ,  250 ,  260  is configured and adapted to transmit or convert a rotation of a first, second and third drive connector  118 ,  120 ,  122  of surgical device  100  into axial translation of articulation bar  258  of adapter assembly  200 , to effectuate articulation of loading unit  300 ; a rotation of a ring gear  266  of adapter assembly  200 , to effectuate rotation of adapter assembly  200 ; or axial translation of a distal drive member  248  of adapter assembly  200  to effectuate closing, opening and firing of loading unit  300 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5, 6 and 24-31 , first force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  240  includes first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212 , which, as described above, is rotatably supported within inner housing assembly  204 . First rotatable proximal drive shaft  212  includes a non-circular or shaped proximal end portion configured for connection with first connector  218  which is connected to respective first connector  118  of surgical device  100 . First rotatable proximal drive shaft  212  includes a distal end portion  212   b  having a threaded outer profile or surface. 
     First force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  240  further includes a drive coupling nut  244  rotatably coupled to threaded distal end portion  212   b  of first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212 , and which is slidably disposed within outer tube  206 . Drive coupling nut  244  is slidably keyed within proximal core tube portion of outer tube  206  so as to be prevented from rotation as first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212  is rotated. In this manner, as first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212  is rotated, drive coupling nut  244  is translated along threaded distal end portion  212   b  of first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212  and, in turn, through and/or along outer tube  206 . 
     First force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  240  further includes a distal drive member  248  that is mechanically engaged with drive coupling nut  244 , such that axial movement of drive coupling nut  244  results in a corresponding amount of axial movement of distal drive member  248 . The distal end portion of distal drive member  248  supports a connection member  247  configured and dimensioned for selective engagement with a drive member  374  of drive assembly  360  of loading unit  300  ( FIG. 48 ). Drive coupling nut  244  and/or distal drive member  248  function as a force transmitting member to components of loading unit  300 , as described in greater detail below. 
     In operation, as first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212  is rotated, due to a rotation of first connector sleeve  218 , as a result of the rotation of the first respective drive connector  118  of surgical device  100 , drive coupling nut  244  is caused to be translated axially along first distal drive shaft  242 . As drive coupling nut  244  is caused to be translated axially along first distal drive shaft  242 , distal drive member  248  is caused to be translated axially relative to outer tube  206 . As distal drive member  248  is translated axially, with connection member  247  connected thereto and engaged with drive member  374  of drive assembly  360  of loading unit  300  ( FIG. 48 ), distal drive member  248  causes concomitant axial translation of drive member  374  of loading unit  300  to effectuate a closure of tool assembly  304  and a firing of tool assembly  304  of loading unit  300 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 5-11, 19 and 23-31 , second drive converter assembly  250  of adapter assembly  200  includes second proximal drive shaft  214  rotatably supported within inner housing assembly  204 . Second rotatable proximal drive shaft  214  includes a non-circular or shaped proximal end portion configured for connection with second connector or coupler  220  which is connected to respective second connector  120  of surgical device  100 . Second rotatable proximal drive shaft  214  further includes a distal end portion  214   b  having a threaded outer profile or surface. 
     Distal end portion  214   b  of proximal drive shaft  214  is threadably engaged with an articulation bearing housing  252   a  of an articulation bearing assembly  252 . Articulation bearing assembly  252  includes a housing  252   a  supporting an articulation bearing  253  having an inner race  253   b  that is independently rotatable relative to an outer race  253   a . Articulation bearing housing  252   a  has a non-circular outer profile, for example tear-dropped shaped, that is slidably and non-rotatably disposed within a complementary bore  204   c  ( FIGS. 25, 26, 29 and 33 ) of inner housing hub  204   a.    
     Second drive converter assembly  250  of adapter assembly  200  further includes an articulation bar  258  having a proximal portion  258   a  secured to inner race  253   b  of articulation bearing  253 . A distal portion  258   b  of articulation bar  258  includes a slot  258   c  therein, which is configured to accept a portion  366 , e.g., a flag, articulation link ( FIG. 48 ) of loading unit  300 . Articulation bar  258  functions as a force transmitting member to components of loading unit  300 , as described in greater detail below. 
     With further regard to articulation bearing assembly  252 , articulation bearing assembly  252  is both rotatable and longitudinally translatable. Additionally, it is envisioned that articulation bearing assembly  252  allows for free, unimpeded rotational movement of loading unit  300  when its jaw members  306 ,  308  are in an approximated position and/or when jaw members  306 ,  308  are articulated ( FIG. 48 ). 
     In operation, as second proximal drive shaft  214  is rotated due to a rotation of second connector sleeve  220 , as a result of the rotation of the second drive connector  120  of surgical device  100 , articulation bearing assembly  252  is caused to be translated axially along threaded distal end portion  214   b  of second proximal drive shaft  214 , which in turn causes articulation bar  258  to be axially translated relative to outer tube  206 . As articulation bar  258  is translated axially, articulation bar  258 , being coupled to articulation link  366  of loading unit  300 , causes concomitant axial translation of articulation link  366  of loading unit  300  to effectuate an articulation of tool assembly  304  ( FIG. 48 ). Articulation bar  258  is secured to inner race  253   b  of articulation bearing  253  and is thus free to rotate about the longitudinal axis X-X relative to outer race  253   a  of articulation bearing  253 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 6, 17, 18, 20-23, 25-28, 31 and 37-40  and as mentioned above, adapter assembly  200  includes a third force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  260  supported in inner housing assembly  204 . Third force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  260  includes a rotation ring gear  266  fixedly supported in and connected to outer knob housing  202 . Ring gear  266  defines an internal array of gear teeth  266   a  ( FIG. 6 ). Ring gear  266  includes a pair of diametrically opposed, radially extending protrusions  266   b  ( FIG. 6 ) projecting from an outer edge thereof. Protrusions  266   b  are disposed within recesses defined in outer knob housing  202 , such that rotation of ring gear  266  results in rotation of outer knob housing  202 , and vice a versa. 
     Third force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  260  further includes third rotatable proximal drive shaft  216  which, as described above, is rotatably supported within inner housing assembly  204 . Third rotatable proximal drive shaft  216  includes a non-circular or shaped proximal end portion configured for connection with third connector  222  which is connected to respective third connector  122  of surgical device  100 . Third rotatable proximal drive shaft  216  includes a spur gear  216   a  keyed to a distal end thereof. A reversing spur gear  264  inter-engages spur gear  216   a  of third rotatable proximal drive shaft  216  to gear teeth  266   a  of ring gear  266 . 
     In operation, as third rotatable proximal drive shaft  216  is rotated, due to a rotation of third connector sleeve  222 , as a result of the rotation of the third drive connector  122  of surgical device  100 , spur gear  216   a  of third rotatable proximal drive shaft  216  engages reversing gear  264  causing reversing gear  264  to rotate. As reversing gear  264  rotates, ring gear  266  also rotates thereby causing outer knob housing  202  to rotate. As outer knob housing  202  is rotated, outer tube  206  is caused to be rotated about longitudinal axis “X” of adapter assembly  200 . As outer tube  206  is rotated, loading unit  300 , that is connected to a distal end portion of adapter assembly  200 , is also caused to be rotated about a longitudinal axis of adapter assembly  200 . 
     Adapter assembly  200  further includes, as seen in  FIGS. 1B, 3-5, 16, 17, 20 and 24-26 , an attachment/detachment button  272  supported thereon. Specifically, button  272  is supported on drive coupling assembly  210  of adapter assembly  200  and is biased by a biasing member  274  to an un-actuated condition. Button  272  includes lip or ledge  272   a  formed therewith that is configured to snap behind a corresponding lip or ledge  108   b  defined along recess  108   a  of connecting portion  108  of surgical device  100 . In use, when adapter assembly  200  is connected to surgical device  100 , lip  272   a  of button  272  is disposed behind lip  108   b  of connecting portion  108  of surgical device  100  to secure and retain adapter assembly  200  and surgical device  100  with one another. In order to permit disconnection of adapter assembly  200  and surgical device  100  from one another, button  272  is depresses or actuated, against the bias of biasing member  274 , to disengage lip  272   a  of button  272  and lip  108   b  of connecting portion  108  of surgical device  100 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1A, 2A, 2B, 3-5 and 24-26 , adapter assembly  200  further includes a lock mechanism  280  for fixing the axial position and radial orientation of distal drive member  248 . Lock mechanism  280  includes a button  282  slidably supported on outer knob housing  202 . Lock button  282  is connected to an actuation bar  284  that extends longitudinally through outer tube  206 . Actuation bar  284  moves upon a movement of lock button  282 . Upon a predetermined amount of movement of lock button  282 , a distal end of actuation bar  284  may move into contact with a lock out (not shown), which causes the lock out to cam a camming member  288  ( FIG. 24 ) from a recess  249  in distal drive member  248 . When camming member  288  is in engagement with recess  249  (e.g., at least partially within recess  249 , see  FIGS. 6 and 24 ), the engagement between camming member  288  and distal drive member  248  effectively locks the axial and rotational position of end effector  300  that is engaged with connection member  247 . 
     In operation, in order to lock the position and/or orientation of distal drive member  248 , a user moves lock button  282  from a distal position to a proximal position ( FIGS. 25 and 26 ), thereby causing the lock out (not shown) to move proximally such that a distal face of the lock out moves out of contact with camming member  288 , which causes camming member  288  to cam into recess  249  of distal drive member  248 . In this manner, distal drive member  248  is prevented from distal and/or proximal movement. When lock button  282  is moved from the proximal position to the distal position, the distal end of actuation bar  284  moves distally into the lock out, against the bias of a biasing member (not shown), to force camming member  288  out of recess  249 , thereby allowing unimpeded axial translation and radial movement of distal drive member  248 . 
     Reference may be made to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/875,571, filed on May 2, 2013, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference, for a more detailed discussion of the construction and operation of lock mechanism  280 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1B, 6, 12A-15 and 25-28 , adapter assembly  200  includes a proximal electrical assembly  290  supported on and in outer knob housing  202  and inner housing assembly  204 . Proximal electrical assembly  290  includes an electrical connector  292  supported on a circuit board  294 , for electrical connection to a corresponding electrical plug  190  disposed in connecting portion  108  of surgical device  100 . 
     With particular reference to  FIGS. 12A-12D , electrical connector  292  includes a plurality of electrical contact pins  293  and a housing or connector housing  295 . Electrical contact pins  293  serve to allow for calibration and communication of life-cycle information to the circuit board of surgical device  100  via electrical plugs  190  that are electrically connected to the circuit board (not shown) of surgical device  100 . 
     Each electrical contact pin  293  includes a distal portion  293   a  and a proximal portion  293   b . Distal portion  293   a  of each contact pin  293  is configured to engage circuit board  294 , e.g., via soldering. Proximal portion  293   b  of each contact pin  293  is configured to releasably engage corresponding electrical plug  190  disposed in connecting portion  108  of surgical device  100 . With continued reference to  FIGS. 12A-12D , distal portion  293   a  of each electrical contact pin  293  is tapered to facilitate insertion into holes  294   a  ( FIG. 12B ) of circuit board  294 . Proximal portion  293   b  of each electrical contact pin  293  includes a rectangular cross-section, and is tapered and chamfered to facilitate engagement and disengagement with electrical plug  190 . 
     Additionally, each electrical contact pin  293  includes a hole  293   c  extending laterally therethrough. Hole  293   c  is configured to facilitate the connection between electrical contact pins  293  and housing  295 . It is envisioned that housing  295  is over-molded, such that portions of the over-mold extend through holes  293   c  in electrical contact pins  293 . As can be appreciated, the engagement between electrical contact pins  293  and housing  295  helps maintain proper alignment of pins  293  to further facilitate engagement between electrical connector  292  and circuit board  294  and electrical plug  190 , and to further facilitate engagement between electrical connector  292  and electrical plug  190 . While seven electrical contact pins  293  are shown, it is envisioned that more or fewer electrical contact pins  293  are included with proximal electrical assembly  290 . 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 12A-12D , housing  295  of electrical connector  292  includes a rectangular cross-section. The rectangular cross-section of housing  295  is configured to mate with a rectangular opening of proximal cap  210   a  ( FIGS. 5 and 6 ) of drive coupling assembly  210  to prevent radial movement therebetween. 
     Housing  295  also includes a plurality of projections  297  extending therefrom. Projections  297  each include a distal face  297   a  and a proximal face  297   b . Distal face  297   a  of each projection  297  is configured and positioned to contact circuit board  294  during insertion of electrical connector  292 . Thus, distal face  297   a  of each projection  297  prevents electrical contact pins  293  of electrical connector  292  from being inserted too far distally into holes  294   a  of circuit board  294 . While distal face  297   a  of each projection  297  is illustrated as being flush with a distal face  295   a  of housing  295  ( FIG. 12D ), it is envisioned that distal face  297   a  of each projection  297  is positioned farther proximally or distally than distal face  295   a  of housing  295 . Proximal face  297   b  of each projection  297  is configured and positioned to prevent disengagement between electrical connector  292  and circuit board  294 , e.g., during disengagement between surgical device  100  and adapter assembly  200 . More particularly, the proximal cap  210  of proximal electrical assembly  290  is configured to abut proximal face  297   b  of at least one or all projections  297 , thus preventing proximal movement of electrical connector  292  with respect to circuit board  294 . In the illustrated embodiment, two projections  297  extend from a first surface  295   b  of housing  295 , and two projections  297  extend from a second surface  295   c  of housing  295 . However, housing  295  may include more or fewer projections  297 . 
     Proximal electrical assembly  290  further includes a strain gauge  296  electrically connected to circuit board  294 . Strain gauge  296  is provided with a notch  296   a  which is configured and adapted to receive stem  204   d  of hub  204   a  of inner housing assembly  204 . Stem  204   d  of hub  204   a  functions to restrict rotational movement of strain gauge  296 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 25-28 , first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212  extends through strain gauge  296 . Strain gauge  296  provides a closed-loop feedback to a firing/clamping load exhibited by first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212 . 
     Proximal electrical assembly  290  also includes a slip ring  298  disposed within outer tube  206 . Slip ring  298  is in electrical connection with circuit board  294  via a plurality of proximal wires  299 . Slip ring  298  functions to permit rotation of first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212  and axial translation of drive coupling nut  244  while still maintaining electrical contact between electrical contact rings  298   a  thereof and a distal electrical assembly  400  (see  FIGS. 49-55 ) within adapter assembly  200 , and while permitting the other electrical components to rotate about first rotatable proximal drive shaft  212  and drive coupling nut  244   
     Turning now to  FIGS. 6, 11, 14, 32 and 33 , inner housing assembly  204  has been designed to reduce incidents of racking of second proximal drive shaft  214  as drive shaft  214  rotates to axially translate articulation bearing assembly  252 . Inner housing assembly  204  includes a hub  204   a  having a distally oriented annular wall  204   b  defining a substantially circular outer profile, and defining a substantially tear-drop shaped inner recess or bore  204   c . Bore  204   c  of hub  204   a  is shaped and dimensioned to slidably receive articulation bearing assembly  252  therewithin. 
     Inner housing assembly  204  includes a ring plate  254   a  ( FIG. 34 ) secured to a distal face of distally oriented annular wall  204   b  of hub  204   a . Plate  254   a  defines an aperture  254   e  therethrough that is sized and formed therein so as to be aligned with second proximal drive shaft  214  and to rotatably receive a distal tip  214   c  of second proximal drive shaft  214 . In this manner, distal tip  214   c  of second proximal drive shaft  214  is supported and prevented from moving radially away from a longitudinal rotational axis of second proximal drive shaft  214  as second proximal drive shaft  214  is rotated to axially translate articulation bearing assembly  252 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 14, 32, 39 and 40 , hub  204   a  defines a feature (e.g., a stem or the like)  204   d  projecting therefrom which functions to engage notch  296   a  of strain gauge  296  of proximal electrical assembly  290  to measure forces experienced by shaft  212  as surgical device  100  is operated. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 35-40 , a plate bushing  230  of inner housing assembly  204  is shown and described. Plate bushing  230  extends across hub  204   a  of inner housing assembly  204  and is secured to hub  204   a  by fastening members. Plate bushing  230  defines three apertures  230   a ,  230   b ,  230   c  that are aligned with and rotatably receive respective first, second and third proximal drive shafts  212 ,  214 ,  216  therein. Plate bushing  230  provides a surface against which first, second and third biasing members  224 ,  226  and  228  come into contact or rest against. 
     While plate bushing  230  has been shown and described as being a unitary monolithic piece, as illustrated in  FIGS. 6 and 37-40 , it is envisioned and within the scope of the present application that plate bushing  230  may be separated into several parts including, and not limited to, as seen in  FIGS. 40-42 , a support plate  230 ′ extending across drive shafts  212 ,  214 ,  216 , and a separate bushing for each of drive shafts  212 ,  214 ,  216  and disposed between the support plate  230 ′ and hub  204   a  of inner housing assembly  204 . Support plate  230 ′ may include a pair of slots  230   a ′,  230   b ′ formed therein, which are configured and adapted to receive tabs  296   b  of strain gauge  296  that project axially therefrom. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 43-47 , an inner housing assembly  204 ′ according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown and will be described. In order to reduce incidents of racking (i.e., distal end  214   b  of second proximal drive shaft  214  moving radially away from a longitudinal rotational axis thereof) of second proximal drive shaft  214  as drive shaft  214  rotates to axially translate articulation bearing assembly  252 , inner housing assembly  204 ′ may include a reinforcement frame or bracket assembly  254 ′. Bracket assembly  254 ′ includes a first plate  254   a ′ and a second plate  254   b ′ integrally connected to and spaced a distance from first plate  254   a ′ by a plurality of connecting rods  254   c ′ extending therebetween. 
     First plate  254   a ′ is disposed adjacent to or in close proximity to ring gear  266  and defines an aperture  254   d ′ therethrough. Aperture  254   d ′ is sized and formed in first plate  254   a ′ so as to be aligned with second proximal drive shaft  214  and to permit second proximal drive shaft  214  to freely rotate therewithin. Second plate  254   b ′ is spaced from first plate  254   a ′ so as to be disposed at a distal free end of second proximal drive shaft  214 . Second plate  254   b ′ defines an aperture  254   e ′ therethrough. Aperture  254   e ′ is sized and formed in second plate or flange  254   b ′ so as to be aligned with second proximal drive shaft  214  and to rotatably receive a distal tip  214   c  of second proximal drive shaft  214 . 
     In this manner, distal tip  214   c  of second proximal drive shaft  214  is supported and prevented from moving radially away from a longitudinal rotational axis of second proximal drive shaft  214  as second proximal drive shaft  214  is rotated to axially translate articulation bearing assembly  252 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 38, 46 and 47 , inner housing assembly  204 ′ may include a reinforcing sleeve  255 ′ disposed about bracket assembly  254 ′ to further reinforce bracket assembly  254 ′. It is contemplated in an embodiment that reinforcing sleeve  255 ′ may be interposed between first plate  254   a ′ and second plate  254   b ′ of bracket assembly  254 ′. It is further contemplated that reinforcing sleeve  255 ′ may be interposed between second plate  254   b ′ and a distally oriented face of proximal inner housing assembly  204 ′. 
     With particular reference to  FIGS. 49-60B , further details and embodiments of proximal electrical assembly  290 , distal electrical assembly  400 , and the engagement therebetween are illustrated. Proximal electrical assembly  290  and distal electrical assembly  400  are configured to permit rotation of outer tube  206  of adapter assembly  200  with respect to handle housing  102  ( FIG. 1A ), while maintaining electrical contact between proximal electrical assembly  290  and distal electrical assembly  400 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 52 and 53 , distal electrical assembly  400  is shown and includes a contact housing or housing  410 , a plurality of electrical contacts  420  extending from housing  410 , and a plurality of wires  430  which electrically connect electrical contacts  420  with distal portions of force/rotation transmitting/converting assemblies  240 ,  250 ,  260 . For example, a first electrical contact  422  is connected to first force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  240  via a first wire  430   a , a second electrical contact  424  is connected to second force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  250  via a second wire  430   b , and a third electrical contact  426  is connected to third force/rotation transmitting/converting assembly  250  via a third wire  430   c . Additionally, wires  430  include a first portion  432  which extends from a radially outer portion  412  of housing  410  in a curved manner and in a direction that is generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis “X.” A second portion  434  of each wire  430  is electrically coupled to first portion  432  of wires  430  and extends generally distally and longitudinally therefrom. 
     With particular reference to  FIGS. 54 and 55 , a radially inner portion  414  of housing  410  includes a pair of legs  416 . Each leg  416  includes a curved portion  418  that is configured to mirror the curvature of slip ring  298 . Additionally, each leg  416  includes a curved stepped portion  419 . Housing  410  and slip ring  298  are dimensioned and configured such that slip ring  298  is positionable on a surface  419   a  of stepped portions  419  and between sidewalls  419   b  of stepped portions  419 . This arrangement helps housing  410  maintain contact with slip ring  298  during rotation therebetween, for example. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 54 and 55 , a plurality of electrical contacts  420  is shown extending from housing  410 . Each electrical contact  420  is configured to engage a single electrical contact ring  298   a  of slip ring  298  ( FIG. 54 ) to transmit electrical signals from that electrical contact ring  298   a  to a respective wire  430  of distal electrical assembly  400 . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 54 and 55 , for example, electrical contacts  420  extend in a cantilevered manner from housing  410  and are curved along a majority of their lengths. Further, the curvature of electrical contacts  420  is opposite from the curvature of slip ring  298  and is opposite from the curvature of curved portion  418  and stepped portion  419  of each leg  416  of housing  410 . Additionally, each electrical contact  420  is configured to flex to help maintain contact with electrical contact rings  298   a  of slip ring  298  upon rotation therebetween, for example. Further, the curvature of electrical contacts  420  enables uninterrupted contact between electrical contacts  420  and electrical contact rings  298   a  upon rotation of housing  410  in either direction (i.e., clockwise and counter-clockwise) with respect to slip ring  298 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 56A-60B , other embodiments of electrical contacts  420  are shown. In  FIGS. 56A-60B , portions of slip ring  298  and/or electrical contact rings  298   a  are omitted and/or out of scale for clarity purposes.  FIGS. 56A and 56B  illustrate electrical contacts  420   a  which include a leg  422   a  and a foot  424   a . Each of leg  422   a  and foot  424   a  is generally linear. Foot  424   a  extends from leg  422   a  at an angle α a . It is envisioned that angle α a  is between about 100° and about 160°, or equal to about 135°. In this embodiment, an electrical connection is made at one location “EC1” where foot  424   a  contacts electrical contact ring  298   a.    
     With reference to  FIGS. 57A and 57B , another embodiment of an electrical contact  420   b  is shown. Each electrical contact  420   b  includes a pair of legs  422   b , and a foot  424   b  extending from each leg  422   b  such that each foot  424   b  extends in an opposite direction from the other foot  424   b . It is also envisioned that each electrical contact  420   b  includes a single leg  422   b  with two feet  424   b  extending therefrom in opposite directions. Each foot  424   b  extends from its respective leg  422   b  at an angle α b . It is envisioned that angle α b  is between about 100° and about 160°, or equal to about 135°. It is further envisioned that each foot  424   b  extends from its respective leg  422   b  at the same angle as the opposite foot  424   b  or at a different angle from the opposite foot  424   b . In this embodiment, an electrical connection is made at two locations “EC1” and “EC2”—one where each foot  424   b  contacts electrical contact ring  298   a . EC1 and EC2 provide redundant contacts to maintain electrical connections, for instance due to imperfection in surface  298   a.    
     With reference to  FIGS. 58A and 58B , another embodiment of an electrical contact  420   c  is shown. Electrical contact  420   c  includes a leg  422   c , an ankle  423   c , and a foot  424   c . Ankle  423   c  extends from leg  422   c  at a first angle α c1 , and foot  424   c  extends from ankle  423   c  at a second angle α c2 . It is envisioned that first angle α c1  is between about 150° and about 175°, or equal to about 165°. And it is envisioned that second angle α c2  is between about 10° and about 60°, or equal to about 30°. Additionally, foot  424   c  is curved along its length, e.g., its entire length. It is envisioned that the curvature of foot  424   c  is equal to or greater than the curvature of electrical contact rings  298   a  and/or slip ring  298 . In this embodiment where the curvature of foot  424   c  is greater than the curvature of electrical contact ring  298   a  ( FIG. 58 a   ), an electrical connection is made at two locations “EC1” and “EC2”—one where each foot  424   c  contacts electrical contact ring  298   a . In this embodiment, the foot  424   c  opens and conforms to ring  298   a  maintaining multiple points of contact. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 59A and 59B , another embodiment of an electrical contact  420   d  is shown. Electrical contact  420   d  includes a yoke  422   d  including two legs  424   d , and a flexible contact  426   d  spanning between legs  424   d . Each leg  424   d  of yoke  422   d  includes an opening  425   d  configured to allow a portion of flexible contact  426   d  to extend therethrough. Flexible contact  426   d  includes an elongated portion  427   d  with an enlarged portion  428   d  at each end thereof. Elongated portion  427   d  of flexible contact  426   d  includes a smaller dimension than opening  425   d  of leg  424   d , thus allowing elongated portion  427   d  to extend through openings  425   d . Enlarged portions  428   d  of flexible contact  426   d  include a larger dimension than opening  425   d  of leg  424   d , thus preventing enlarged portions  428   d  from being able to extend through openings  425   d . Accordingly, flexible contact  426   d  is maintained between legs  424   d  of yoke  422   d . In this embodiment, an electrical connection is made at one location “EC1” where flexible contact  426   d  contacts electrical contact ring  298   a . Additionally, it is envisioned that since flexible contact  426   d  has the ability to flex with respect to yoke  422   d , electrical contact  420   d  enables tolerances of electrical contact  420   d  and/or slip ring  298  to be reduced. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 60A and 60B , another embodiment of an electrical contact  420   e  is shown. Electrical contact  420   e  includes a leg  422   e  and a ring  424   e  extending therefrom. Ring  424   e  is configured to wrap at least partially around electrical contact ring  298   a , and to have approximately the same radius of curvature of electrical contact ring  298   a  along at least a portion of its length, thus maintaining an infinite amount of electrical connections therebetween. It is envisioned that ring  424   e  and electrical contact ring  298   a  contact each other for greater than 180°. It is further envisioned that ring  424   e  forms between about 180° and about 360° of a circle. In embodiments where ring  424   e  forms greater than about 180° of a circle, it is disclosed that ring  424   e  is flexible enough to flex a sufficient amount during assembly to allow ring  424   e  to be installed on electrical contact ring  298   a . That is, it is disclosed that a first end  425   e  of ring  424   e  and a second end  426   e  of ring  424   e  can be separated by a distance that is greater than the diameter of electrical contact ring  298   a.    
     Referring now to  FIGS. 61-74 , various embodiments of a guide  500  are shown. Generally, guide  500  is configured to help maintain engagement between housing  410  and slip ring  298  during assembly. In each of the embodiments, guide  500  includes a holder portion  510  and a spacer  550 . Spacer  550  is immovably affixed to holder portion  510  and extends distally therefrom. Spacer  550  is configured to maintain slip ring  298  a predetermined distance proximally from slip ring cannula  700 . Additionally, spacer  550  includes a plurality of arcuate, longitudinal passageways  552  which are configured to allow the plurality of wires  430  to pass therethrough. 
     With particular reference to  FIGS. 61 and 62 , a first embodiment of a guide is shown and is indicated as reference character  500 . A holder portion  510  of guide  500  includes a rectangular aperture  512  extending therethrough. As shown in  FIG. 62 , rectangular aperture  512  is configured to allow a portion of housing  410  to extend therethrough. For instance, it is envisioned that legs  416  (obscured from view in  FIG. 62 ) of housing  410  are insertable through rectangular aperture  512 , and that a ledge  417  (see  FIG. 54 ) of housing  410  abuts holder portion  510 , thus preventing additional insertion of housing  410  through rectangular aperture  512 . The perimeter of rectangular aperture  512  is slightly larger than the perimeter of the portion of housing  410  that extends therethrough, thus enabling a friction fit engagement therebetween. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 63 and 64 , another embodiment of a guide is shown and is referenced by character  500   a . A holder portion  510   a  of guide  500   a  includes a rectangular aperture  512   a  extending therethrough. Additionally, holder portion  510   a  of guide  500   a  includes a flexible tee  520   a  extending adjacent rectangular aperture  512   a  and extending radially away from the longitudinal axis “X.” Flexible tee  520   a  includes a shaft  522   a  and crown  530   a . A first portion  524   a  of shaft  522   a  is flared and is in contact with remainder of holder portion  510   a , and a second portion  526   a  of shaft  522   a  engages crown  530   a.    
     As shown in  FIG. 64 , rectangular aperture  512   a  is configured to allow a portion of housing  410  to extend therethrough. For instance, it is envisioned that legs  416  of housing  410  are insertable through rectangular aperture  512   a , and that ledge  417  (see  FIG. 54 ) of housing  410  abuts holder portion  510   a , thus preventing additional insertion of housing  410  through rectangular aperture  512   a . To further maintain guide  500   a  in contact with housing  410 , shaft  522   a  of flexible tee  520   a  is configured to extend between a pair of projections  415  of housing  410 , and crown  530   a  is configured to abut a radially-outer surface  415   a  of projections  415  (see  FIG. 54 ). During installation between guide  500   a  and housing  410 , flexible tee  520   a  is configured to flex away from housing  410  to allow housing  410  to be partially inserted into rectangular aperture  512   a  of holder portion  510   a . Subsequently, flexible tee  520   a  is configured to return to its non-flexed position to the location shown in  FIG. 64 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 65 and 66 , another embodiment of a guide is shown and is referred to by reference character  500   b . A holder portion  510   b  of guide  500   b  includes a rectangular aperture  512   b  extending therethrough. Additionally, holder portion  510   b  of guide  500   b  includes a post  520   b  extending adjacent rectangular aperture  512   b  and extending radially away from the longitudinal axis “X.” In disclosed embodiments, post  520   b  includes a plurality of ribs  524   b  extending along an inner surface  522   b  of post  520   b  and extending radially away from the longitudinal axis “X.” 
     As shown in  FIG. 66 , rectangular aperture  512   b  is configured to allow a portion of housing  410  to extend therethrough. For instance, it is envisioned that legs  416  of housing  410  are insertable through rectangular aperture  512   c , and that ledge  417  (see  FIG. 54 ) of housing  410  abuts holder portion  510   b , thus preventing additional insertion of housing  410  through rectangular aperture  512   b . To further maintain guide  500   b  in contact with housing  410 , post  520   b  of holder portion  510   b  is configured to extend between pair of projections  415  of housing  410  (see  FIG. 54 ). Additionally, ribs  524   b  on post  520   b  are designed to be crushed during installation between guide  500   b  and housing  410 , thus providing an increased frictional engagement therebetween. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 67-68 , another embodiment of a guide is shown and is referred to by reference character  500   c . A holder portion  510   c  of guide  500   c  includes a rectangular aperture  512   c  extending therethrough. Additionally, holder portion  510   c  of guide  500   c  includes a first post  520   c  and a second post  530   c  extending adjacent rectangular aperture  512   c  and extending radially away from the longitudinal axis “X.” In disclosed embodiments, at least one of first post  520   c  and second post  530   c  includes a plurality of ribs  524   c ,  534   c  extending along an inner surface  522   c ,  532   c  of the respective first post  520   c  and/or second post  530   c , and extending radially away from the longitudinal axis “X.” 
     As shown in  FIG. 68 , rectangular aperture  512   c  is configured to allow a portion of housing  410  to extend therethrough. For instance, it is envisioned that legs  416  of housing  410  are insertable through rectangular aperture  512   c , and that ledge  417  (see  FIG. 54 ) of housing  410  abuts holder portion  510   c , thus preventing additional insertion of housing  410  through rectangular aperture  512   c . To further maintain guide  500   c  in contact with housing  410 , first post  520   c  of holder portion  510   c  is configured to extend between the pair of projections  415  of housing  410  (see  FIG. 54 ), and second post  530   c  is configured to abut a rear wall  411  of housing  410  (see  FIG. 55 ). Additionally, ribs  524   c ,  534   c  on first post  520   c  and/or second post  530   c , respectively, are designed to be crushed during installation between guide  500   c  and housing  410 , thus providing an increased frictional engagement therebetween. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 69 and 70 , a second embodiment of housing  410   a  is shown, which is configured to engage first embodiment of guide  500  ( FIG. 70 ). As discussed above, holder portion  510  of guide  500  includes a rectangular aperture  512  extending therethrough. Rectangular aperture  512  is configured to allow a portion of housing  410   a  to extend therethrough. For instance, it is envisioned that legs  416   a  of housing  410   a  are insertable through rectangular aperture  512 , and that a ledge  417   a  (see ledge  417  in  FIG. 54 ) of housing  410   a  abuts holder portion  510 , thus preventing additional insertion of housing  410   a  through rectangular aperture  512 . The perimeter of rectangular aperture  512  is slightly larger than the perimeter of the portion of housing  410   a  that extends therethrough, thus enabling a friction fit engagement therebetween. Additionally, housing  410   a  includes a plurality of ribs  414   a  extending along at least one lateral side  413   a  of housing  410   a . Ribs  414   a  are designed to fill any voids between lateral sides  413   a  of housing  410   a  and guide  500  to increase frictional engagement therebetween. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 71-72 , another embodiment of a guide is shown and is referred to by reference character  500   d . A holder portion  510   d  of guide  500   d  includes a rectangular aperture  512   d  extending therethrough. Additionally, holder portion  510   d  of guide  500   d  includes a first flexible tab  520   d  and a second flexible tab  530   d  extending adjacent rectangular aperture  512   d  and extending radially away from the longitudinal axis “X.” In the illustrated embodiment, each of first flexible tab  520   d  and second flexible tab  530   d  includes a one-way ratchet tooth  524   d ,  534   d , respectively, thereon. 
     As shown in  FIG. 72 , rectangular aperture  512   d  is configured to allow a portion of housing  410  to extend therethrough. For instance, it is envisioned that legs  416  of housing  410  are insertable through rectangular aperture  512   d , and that ledge  417  (see  FIG. 54 ) of housing  410  abuts holder portion  510   d , thus preventing additional insertion of housing  410  through rectangular aperture  512   d . To further maintain guide  500   d  in contact with housing  410 , ratchet teeth  524   d ,  534   d  of first and second flexible tabs  520   d ,  530   d , respectively, are configured to engage radially-outer surfaces  415   a  of projections  415  (see  FIGS. 54 and 72 ). During installation between guide  500   d  and housing  410 , flexible tabs  520   d  and  530   d  are configured to flex away from housing  410  in response to engagement between ratchet teeth  524   d ,  534   d  and ledge  417  to allow housing  410  to be partially inserted into rectangular aperture  512   d  of holder portion  510   d . Subsequently, flexible tabs  520   d  and  530   d  are configured to return to their non-flexed position to the location shown in  FIG. 72 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 73-74 , another embodiment of a guide is shown and is referred to by reference character  500   e . A holder portion  510   e  of guide  500   e  includes a rectangular aperture  512   e  extending therethrough. Additionally, holder portion  510   e  of guide  500   e  includes a flexible tab  520   e  extending adjacent rectangular aperture  512   e  and extending radially away from the longitudinal axis “X.” In the illustrated embodiment, flexible tab  520   e  includes a one-way ratchet tooth  524   e  thereon. 
     As shown in  FIG. 74 , rectangular aperture  512   e  is configured to allow a portion of housing  410  to extend therethrough. For instance, it is envisioned that legs  416  of housing  410  are insertable through rectangular aperture  512   e , and that ledge  417  (see  FIG. 54 ) of housing  410  abuts holder portion  510   e , thus preventing additional insertion of housing  410  through rectangular aperture  512   e . To further maintain guide  500   e  in contact with housing  410 , ratchet tooth  524   e  of flexible tab  520   e  is configured to engage radially-outer surfaces  415   a  of projections  415  (see  FIGS. 54 and 74 ). During installation between guide  500   e  and housing  410 , flexible tab  520   e  is configured to flex away from housing  410  in response to engagement between ratchet tooth  524   e  and ledge  417  to allow housing  410  to be partially inserted into rectangular aperture  512   e  of holder portion  510   e . Subsequently, flexible tab  520   e  is configured to return to its non-flexed position to the location shown in  FIG. 74 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 75-79 , a spacer  600  and a slip ring contact holder  650  are shown in accordance with disclosed embodiments. Generally, spacer  600  and slip ring contact holder  650  are configured for mechanical engagement with one another and are configured to help maintain engagement between housing slip ring contact holder  650  and slip ring  298  during assembly. Further, in this embodiment, slip ring contact holder  650  combines some features of housings  410 ,  410   a  and guides  500 - 500   e  of previous embodiments. That is, in the embodiments disclosed in  FIGS. 75-79 , only one feature (i.e., slip ring contact holder  650 ) is necessary instead of two features (i.e., housing  410 ,  410   a  and guides  500 - 500   e ). 
     With reference to  FIG. 75 , spacer  600  is configured to maintain slip ring  298  a predetermined distance proximally from slip ring cannula  700 . Additionally, spacer  600  includes an arcuate, longitudinal passageway  602 , and a pair of slots  604 . Passageway  602  is configured to allow the plurality of wires  430  (see  FIG. 53 ) to pass therethrough, and each slot  604  is configured to mechanically engage one of two arms  660  of slip ring contact holder  650  for coupling spacer  600  and slip ring contact holder  650  (see  FIGS. 76A and 76B ). 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 76A and 76B , slip ring contact holder  650  includes a body portion  670  and two arms  660  extending longitudinally therefrom. Body portion  670  is generally C-shaped and houses or is configured to house a plurality of contacts  680   a ,  680   b ,  680   c  therein. Body portion  670  is configured to be positioned over slip ring  298  such that each contact  680   a ,  680   b ,  680   c  engages a single contact ring  298   a  of slip ring  298 . Additionally, body portion  670  is rotatable about the longitudinal axis “X” with respect to slip ring  298 , thus permitting rotation therebetween while maintaining electrical contact therebetween. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 76A and 76B , slip ring contact holder  650  also includes apertures  672   a ,  672   b ,  672   c  extending through body potion  670 . Apertures  672   a ,  672   b ,  672   c  are each configured to allow one extension portion  682   a ,  682   b ,  682   c  (see  FIG. 77 ) of contacts  680   a ,  680   b ,  680   c , respectively to pass therethrough. Each extension portion  682   a ,  682   b ,  682   c  is configured to electrically connect to one of wires  430   a ,  430   b ,  430   c  (see  FIG. 53 ) to electrically connect contacts  680   a ,  680   b ,  680   c  with distal portions of force/rotation transmitting/converting assemblies  240 ,  250 ,  260 . 
     Additionally, slip ring contact holder  650  includes alignment tabs  690   a ,  690   b ,  690   c ,  690   d  configured to engage proximal and distal walls of slip ring  298 , and help maintain contact with slip ring  298  during rotation of slip ring contact holder  650 , for example. 
     With particular reference to  FIGS. 77-79 , spacer  600  and slip ring contact holder  650  are shown mechanically engaged. Here, each of the two arms  660  of slip ring contact holder  650  are mated with one slot  604  of spacer  600 , thus mechanically coupling spacer  600  and slip ring contact holder  650 . It is envisioned that a user can separate spacer  600  from slip ring contact holder  650  by forcing arms  660  toward body portion  670  and out of slots  604 . Additionally, the embodiment of slip ring contact holder  650  illustrated in  FIG. 79  includes a post  692  extending radially outwardly from body portion  670 . It is envisioned that post  692  is configured to engage an inner wall of core tube  207  to help maintain proper radial and/or axial alignment therebetween, for example. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 15 and 80-85 , various embodiments of a sleeve or slip ring cannula  700 ,  700   a ,  700   b  are shown. In general, slip ring cannula  700 ,  700   a ,  700   b  is included as a part of proximal electrical assembly  290  and is positioned on a portion of core tube  207  to protect and/or shield wires  299  extending between slip ring  298  and circuit board  294 . 
     With particular reference to  FIG. 15 , slip ring cannula  700  includes a base portion  702 , a longitudinal slit  710 , a longitudinal wire track  720 , a radially-extending post  730  adjacent a proximal portion of base portion  702 , and a finger  740  extending proximally from a radially-outward portion of post  730 . Referring now to  FIG. 15  which illustrates slip ring cannula  700 , and  FIGS. 84-85  which show a different embodiment of a slip ring cannula  700   b , longitudinal slit  710  is formed in base portion  702  and is configured to facilitate assembly between slip ring cannula  700  and a core tube  207  (see  FIGS. 82 and 83 ) of outer tube  206  (see  FIG. 2A ). Wire track  720  extends along base portion  702  radially opposite from longitudinal slit  710  and provides a path for wires  299  to extend within slip ring cannula  700  and between slip ring  298  and circuit board  294 . Post  730  is configured to abut an inner wall of hub  204   a  of inner housing assembly  204  to maintain the radial position of slip ring cannula  700  with respect to housing assembly  204 . Finger  740  is configured such that when slip ring cannula  700  is engaged with housing assembly  204 , hooks  742  of finger  740  hook around a proximal wall  205  of housing assembly  204  to maintain the longitudinal position of slip ring cannula  700  with respect to housing assembly  204  (see  FIG. 85 ). 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 80-83 , another embodiment of a slip ring cannula  700   a  is illustrated. Slip ring cannula  700   a  includes a disc-like base portion  702   a , a slit  710   a  extending radially outward from a central aperture  704   a , a wire track  720   a , and a pair of flexible tabs  730   a  extending proximally from an outer periphery of base portion  702   a . Slip ring cannula  700   a  is configured such that core tube  207  extends through central aperture  704   a . As shown with particular regard to  FIGS. 81 and 83 , wires  299  extend through wire track  720   a  as wires  299  extend between slip ring  298  and circuit board  294  (see  FIG. 12A , for example). Each flexible tab  730   a  includes a one-way ratchet  732   a  which is configured to engage a radial wall  204   e  of hub  204   a  (see  FIG. 82 ). Engagement between flexible tabs  730   a  and radial wall  204   e  of hub  204   a  provides linear stabilization of slip ring cannula  700   a  with respect to housing assembly  204 . Engagement between radially outward surfaces  734   a  of flexible tabs  730   a  and radial wall  204   e  of hub  204   a  provides radial stabilization of slip ring cannula  700   a  with respect to housing assembly  204 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 84 and 85 , a third embodiment of slip ring cannula  700   b  is shown. Slip ring cannula  700   b  is similar to slip ring cannula  700 , discussed above with reference to  FIG. 15 , but also includes a proximal passageway  744   b  and a distal passageway  746   b  extending through finger  740   b . Proximal and distal passageways  744   b ,  746   b  are configured to allow wires  299  and/or a cable to be threaded therethrough, as shown in  FIGS. 84 and 85 . It is envisioned that to facilitate assembling proximal electrical assembly  290   b  around hub  204   a  of housing assembly  204 , an extra length  299   a  of wires  299  would be helpful. This extra length  299   a  of wires  299  would then be directed within adapter assembly  200  after circuit board  294  and strain gauge  296  (see  FIG. 12A ) have been assembled. As shown in  FIG. 85 , extra length  299   a  of wires  299  are able to fit radially outward of proximal wall  205  of hub  204   a  of housing assembly  204 . 
     As can be appreciated, each embodiment of slip ring cannula  700 ,  700   a  and  700   b , when assembled, will hold wires  299  taut in a linear manner with respect to slip ring  298 , and will prevent articulation bearing assembly  252  ( FIG. 25 ) from contacting wires  299 . It is further envisioned that wires  299  are made from a material that is elastic and/or autoclavable. It is envisioned that these stretchable wires  299  are assembled over slip ring  298  in a first, non-stretched position. These wires  299  would then stretch toward a second position when slip ring  298  is assembled onto core tube  207 . Here, wires  299  would be thin enough as to not interfere with articulation bearing assembly  252 . 
     In operation, when a button of surgical device  100  is activated by the user, the software checks predefined conditions. If conditions are met, the software controls the motors and delivers mechanical drive to the attached surgical stapler, which can then open, close, rotate, articulate or fire depending on the function of the pressed button. The software also provides feedback to the user by turning colored lights on or off in a defined manner to indicate the status of surgical device  100 , adapter assembly  200  and/or loading unit  300 . 
     Reference may be made to U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0314821, filed on Aug. 31, 2009, entitled “TOOL ASSEMBLY FOR A SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE” for a detailed discussion of the construction and operation of loading unit  300 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 48 . 
     Any of the components described herein may be fabricated from either metals, plastics, resins, composites or the like taking into consideration strength, durability, wearability, weight, resistance to corrosion, ease of manufacturing, cost of manufacturing, and the like. 
     It will be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiments of the presently disclosed adapter assemblies. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.