Patent Publication Number: US-11653920-B2

Title: Powered surgical instruments with communication interfaces through sterile barrier

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various arrangements, to surgical stapling and cutting instruments and staple cartridges for use therewith that are designed to staple and cut tissue. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a surgical instrument system that comprises a shaft and a handle assembly releasably couplable to the shaft. The handle assembly comprises a disposable outer housing defining a sterile barrier. The disposable outer housing comprises a first housing-portion and a second housing-portion movable relative to the first housing-portion between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The handle assembly further comprises a control inner core receivable inside the disposable outer housing in the open configuration. The disposable outer housing is configured to isolate the control inner core within the sterile barrier in the closed configuration. The surgical instrument system further comprises an end effector releasably couplable to the shaft and an electrical interface assembly configured to transmit at least one of data signal and power between the control inner core and the end effector. The electrical interface assembly comprises a first interface portion on a first side of the sterile barrier, a second interface portion on a second side of the sterile barrier opposite the first side. The first interface portion is configured to form a wireless electrical interface with the second interface portion to facilitate a wireless transmission of the at least one of data signal and power between the control inner core and second interface portion. The electrical interface assembly further comprises an exteriorly-mounted wiring connection. The exteriorly-mounted wiring connection is separately-attachable to the second interface portion to facilitate a wired transmission of the at least one of data signal and power between the second interface portion and the end effector. 
     In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a surgical instrument system, comprising a shaft and a handle assembly releasably couplable to the shaft. The handle assembly comprises a disposable outer housing defining a sterile barrier. The disposable outer housing comprises a first housing-portion and a second housing-portion movable relative to the first housing-portion between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The handle assembly further comprises a control inner core receivable inside the disposable outer housing in the open configuration. The disposable outer housing is configured to isolate the control inner core within the sterile barrier in the closed configuration. The surgical instrument system further comprises an end effector releasably couplable to the shaft and an electrical interface assembly. The electrical interface assembly comprises a first interface portion on a first side of the sterile barrier, and a second interface portion on a second side of the sterile barrier opposite the first side. The first interface portion and the second interface portion are configured to cooperatively form a wireless segment of a communication pathway between the control inner core and the storage medium through the sterile barrier. The electrical interface assembly further comprises an exteriorly-mounted wiring connection. The exteriorly-mounted wiring connection is separately-attachable to the second interface portion to facilitate a wired segment of the communication pathway between the control inner core and the storage medium. The control inner core is configured to set an operational parameter of the surgical instrument system based on a communication signal through the communication pathway. 
     In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a surgical instrument system that comprises a shaft comprising a nozzle portion including a rotatable conductive ring. The surgical instrument system further comprises a handle assembly releasably couplable to the shaft. The handle assembly comprises a disposable outer housing defining a sterile barrier. The disposable outer housing comprises a first housing-portion and a second housing-portion movable relative to the first housing-portion between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The handle assembly further comprises a control inner core receivable inside the disposable outer housing in the open configuration. The disposable outer housing is configured to isolate the control inner core within the sterile barrier in the closed configuration. The surgical instrument system further comprises an end effector releasably couplable to the shaft and an electrical interface assembly configured to transmit at least one of data and power between the control inner core and the end effector. The electrical interface assembly comprises a first interface portion on a first side of the sterile barrier and a second interface portion on a second side of the sterile barrier opposite the first side. The first interface portion and the second interface portion are configured to cooperatively facilitate a wireless transmission of an electrical signal through the electrical interface assembly. The surgical instrument system further comprises a control circuit. The control circuit is configured to detect a compatible connection between the end effector and the control inner core through the electrical interface assembly and adjust a signal parameter of the electrical signal to improve a throughput of the at least one of data and power between the end effector and the control inner core. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Various features of the embodiments described herein, together with advantages thereof, may be understood in accordance with the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings as follows: 
         FIG.  1    illustrates a perspective view of a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a perspective view of handle assembly of the surgical instrument system of  FIG.  1    in a disassembled configuration, the handle assembly including an outer disposable housing and an inner core. 
         FIG.  3    illustrates a cross-sectional view of an electrical interface for transmitting at least one of power and data between an end effector of the surgical instrument system of  FIG.  1    and the inner core of  FIG.  2   . 
         FIG.  4    is a logic flow diagram of a process depicting a control program or a logic configuration for electrically connecting an inner core of a surgical instrument system with a staple cartridge or an end effector, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  5    is a graph illustrating drive member travel on the x-axis and drive member speed on the y-axis, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  6    is a graph illustrating drive member speed on the x-axis and motor current on the y-axis, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  7    is a partial elevational view of a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  8    is a partial elevational view of a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  9    is a cross-sectional view of a nozzle portion of the surgical instrument system of  FIG.  8   . 
         FIG.  10    is a cross-sectional view of a handle assembly of a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  11    is a cross-sectional view of a modular configuration of a modular surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  12    is a graph illustrating resistance identifiers of various potential modular components of the modular surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  13    is a logic flow diagram of a process depicting a control program or a logic configuration for detecting and/or authenticating a modular configuration of a modular surgical instrument system or assembly. 
         FIG.  14    is a logic flow diagram of a process depicting a control program or a logic configuration for detecting and/or authenticating a modular configuration of a modular surgical instrument system or assembly. 
         FIG.  15    is a perspective view of a handle assembly of a modular surgical instrument system, the handle assembly including a disposable outer housing and an inner core, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  16    is a graph for assessing proximity and alignment of the disposable outer housing and the inner core of  FIG.  15    in an assembled configuration. 
         FIG.  17    is a perspective view of a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  18    is a cross-sectional view of a nozzle portion of a shaft assembly of the surgical instrument system of  FIG.  17   . 
         FIG.  19    is a partial exploded view of components of the surgical instrument system of  FIG.  17   . 
         FIG.  20    is a partial cross-sectional view of components of the surgical instrument system of  FIG.  17   . 
         FIG.  21    is a logic flow diagram of a process depicting a control program or a logic configuration for disabling an inner core of a handle assembly of a surgical instrument system at an end-of-life event. 
         FIGS.  22 - 25    illustrate safety mechanisms for disabling a disposable outer housing of a handle assembly after usage in a surgical procedure, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS.  26 - 29    illustrate safety mechanisms for disabling a disposable outer housing of a handle assembly after usage in a surgical procedure, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  30    is a perspective view of a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  31    is a partial cross-sectional view of an outer wall of a handle assembly of the surgical instrument system of  FIG.  30   . 
         FIG.  32    is a simplified representation of a sterilization-detection circuit of the handle assembly of the surgical instrument system  FIG.  30   . 
         FIG.  33    is a top view of the handle assembly of the surgical instrument system of  FIG.  30    showing a light-emitting diode (LED) display thereof. 
         FIG.  34    is an expanded view of the LED display of  FIG.  33   . 
         FIG.  35    is a graph illustrating sensor readings of a hydrogen peroxide sensor, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  36    is a logic flow diagram of a process depicting a control program or a logic configuration for detecting an end of a lifecycle of a re-serializable component of a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  37    illustrates a process of re-sterilizing a handle assembly of a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  38    is a re-serialization system for re-sterilizing a handle assembly of a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  39    illustrates the re-serialization system of  FIG.  38    in a closed configuration. 
         FIG.  40    is a re-serialization system for re-sterilizing a handle assembly of a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  41    is a primary electrical interface for use with a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  42    is an actuator for use with a surgical instrument system, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  43    illustrates the actuator of  FIG.  42    in different configurations yielding different closure forces, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  44    is a graph illustrating different closure positions of an end effector and corresponding closure forces as determine based on the different configurations of  FIG.  43   . 
         FIG.  45    is a perspective view of a disposable outer housing and an inner core of a handle assembly, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  46    is a partial cross-sectional view of an actuator of the handle assembly of  FIG.  45   . 
         FIG.  47    is a perspective view of a disposable outer housing and an inner core of a handle assembly, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  48    is a partial cross-sectional view of an actuator of the handle assembly of  FIG.  47   . 
         FIG.  49    is a graph vibrations, on the Y-axis, as a function of time on the x-axis. 
         FIG.  50    is a partial exploded view of a handle assembly, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  51    is a partial cross-sectional view of an actuator of the handle assembly of  FIG.  50   . 
         FIG.  52    is a partial exploded view of a handle assembly, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  53    is a partial exploded view of an actuator of a handle assembly, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  54    is a partial cross-sectional view of the actuator of  FIG.  53   . 
     
    
    
     Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate certain embodiments of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Applicant of the present application also owns the following U.S. Patent Applications that were filed on Dec. 2, 2020 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties: 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,589, entitled METHOD FOR TISSUE TREATMENT BY SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0168038; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,595, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH INTERACTIVE FEATURES TO REMEDY INCIDENTAL SLED MOVEMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0167980; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,598, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SLED LOCATION DETECTION AND ADJUSTMENT FEATURES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0167971; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,615, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CARTRIDGE RELEASE MECHANISMS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0167972; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,627, entitled DUAL-SIDED REINFORCED RELOAD FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0167981; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,636, entitled SURGICAL SYSTEMS WITH DETACHABLE SHAFT RELOAD DETECTION, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0167973; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,645, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS FOR POWER TRANSMISSION ACROSS STERILE BARRIER, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0167982; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,648, entitled DEVICES AND METHODS OF MANAGING ENERGY DISSIPATED WITHIN STERILE BARRIERS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HOUSINGS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0167983; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,651, entitled POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH EXTERNAL CONNECTORS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0167977; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,656, entitled POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SMART RELOAD WITH SEPARATELY ATTACHABLE EXTERIORLY MOUNTED WIRING CONNECTIONS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0167974; and 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/109,669, entitled POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTI-PHASE TISSUE TREATMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022/0167975. 
     Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. Patent Applications, filed on Dec. 4, 2018, the disclosure of each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety: 
     U.S. Patent application Ser. No. 16/209,385, entitled METHOD OF HUB COMMUNICATION, PROCESSING, STORAGE AND DISPLAY; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,395, entitled METHOD OF HUB COMMUNICATION; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,403, entitled METHOD OF CLOUD BASED DATA ANALYTICS FOR USE WITH THE HUB; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,407, entitled METHOD OF ROBOTIC HUB COMMUNICATION, DETECTION, AND CONTROL; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,416, entitled METHOD OF HUB COMMUNICATION, PROCESSING, DISPLAY, AND CLOUD ANALYTICS; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,423, entitled METHOD OF COMPRESSING TISSUE WITHIN A STAPLING DEVICE AND SIMULTANEOUSLY DISPLAYING THE LOCATION OF THE TISSUE WITHIN THE JAWS; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,427, entitled METHOD OF USING REINFORCED FLEXIBLE CIRCUITS WITH MULTIPLE SENSORS TO OPTIMIZE PERFORMANCE OF RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,433, entitled METHOD OF SENSING PARTICULATE FROM SMOKE EVACUATED FROM A PATIENT, ADJUSTING THE PUMP SPEED BASED ON THE SENSED INFORMATION, AND COMMUNICATING THE FUNCTIONAL PARAMETERS OF THE SYSTEM TO THE HUB; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,447, entitled METHOD FOR SMOKE EVACUATION FOR SURGICAL HUB; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,453, entitled METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SMART ENERGY DEVICES; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,458, entitled METHOD FOR SMART ENERGY DEVICE INFRASTRUCTURE; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,465, entitled METHOD FOR ADAPTIVE CONTROL SCHEMES FOR SURGICAL NETWORK CONTROL AND INTERACTION; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,478, entitled METHOD FOR SITUATIONAL AWARENESS FOR SURGICAL NETWORK OR SURGICAL NETWORK CONNECTED DEVICE CAPABLE OF ADJUSTING FUNCTION BASED ON A SENSED SITUATION OR USAGE; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,490, entitled METHOD FOR FACILITY DATA COLLECTION AND INTERPRETATION; and 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,491, entitled METHOD FOR CIRCULAR STAPLER CONTROL ALGORITHM ADJUSTMENT BASED ON SITUATIONAL AWARENESS. 
     Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative. Variations and changes thereto may be made without departing from the scope of the claims. 
     Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, the reader will readily appreciate that the various methods and devices disclosed herein can be used in numerous surgical procedures and applications including, for example, in connection with open surgical procedures. As the present Detailed Description proceeds, the reader will further appreciate that the various instruments disclosed herein can be inserted into a body in any way, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or puncture hole formed in tissue, etc. The working portions or end effector portions of the instruments can be inserted directly into a patient&#39;s body or can be inserted through an access device that has a working channel through which the end effector and elongate shaft of a surgical instrument can be advanced. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  1 - 3   , a surgical instrument system is provided, such as, for example, an electromechanical surgical instrument system  8500 . System  8500  includes a handle assembly  8520 , a plurality of types of adapter or shaft assemblies such as, for example, shaft assembly  8530 , and a plurality of types of loading units or end effectors such as, for example, end effector  8540 . Handle assembly  8520  is configured for selective attachment thereto with any one of a number of shaft assemblies, for example, shaft assembly  8530  and, in turn, each unique shaft assembly  8530  is configured for selective connection with any number of surgical loading units or end effectors, such as, for example, end effector  8540 . End effector  8540  and shaft assembly  8530  are configured for actuation and manipulation by handle assembly  8520 . Upon connecting one shaft assembly  8530 , for example, to handle assembly  8520  and one type of end effector such as, for example, end effector  8540  to the selected shaft assembly  8530  a powered, hand-held, electromechanical surgical instrument is formed. 
     Various suitable loading units or end effectors for use with the surgical instrument system  8500  are discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,865,361, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING APPARATUS, and issued Feb. 2, 1999, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Various handle assemblies for use with the surgical instrument system  8500  are discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 10,426,468, entitled HANDHELD ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL SYSTEM, and issued on Oct. 1, 2019, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     The handle assembly  8520  includes an inner core  8522  and a disposable outer housing  8524  configured to selectively receive and encase inner core  8522  to establish a sterile barrier  8525  ( FIG.  3   ) around the inner core  8522 . Inner core  8522  is motor operable and configured to drive an operation of a plurality of types of end effectors. Inner core  8522  has a plurality of sets of operating parameters (e.g., speed of operation of motors of inner core  8522 , an amount of power to be delivered by motors of inner core  8522  to a shaft assembly, selection of motors of inner core  8522  to be actuated, functions of an end effector to be performed by inner core  8522 , or the like). Each set of operating parameters of inner core  8522  is designed to drive the actuation of a specific set of functions unique to respective types of end effectors when an end effector is coupled to inner core  8522 . For example, inner core  8522  may vary its power output, deactivate or activate certain buttons thereof, and/or actuate different motors thereof depending on the type of end effector that is coupled to inner core  8522 . 
     The inner core  8522  defines an inner housing cavity therein in which a power-pack  8526  is situated. Power-pack  8526  is configured to control the various operations of inner core  8522 . Power-pack  8526  includes a plurality of motors operatively engaged thereto. The rotation of motors function to drive shafts and/or gear components of shaft assembly  8530 , for example, in order to drive the various operations of end effectors attached thereto, for example, end effector  8540 . 
     When end effector  8540  is coupled to inner core  8522 , motors of power-pack  8526  are configured to drive shafts and/or gear components of the shaft assembly  8530  in order to selectively effect a firing motion, a closure motion, and/or an articulation motion at the end effector  8540 , for example. 
     Further to the above, the disposable outer housing  8524  includes two housing portions  8524   a,    8524   b  releasably attached to one another to permit assembly with the inner core  8522 . In the illustrated example, the housing portion  8524   b  is movably coupled to the housing portion  8524   a  by a hinge  8525  located along an upper edge of housing portion  8524   b.  Consequently, the housing portions  8524   a,    8524   b  are pivotable relative to one another between a closed, fully coupled configuration, as shown in  FIG.  1   , and an open, partially detached configuration, as shown in  FIG.  2   . When joined, the housing portions  8524   a,    8524   b  define a cavity therein in which inner core  8522  may be selectively situated. 
     In the illustrated example, the inner core  8522  includes a control circuit  8560 . In other examples, the control circuit  8560  is disposed on an inner wall of the disposable outer housing  8524 , and is releasably couplable to the inner core  8522  such that an electrical connection is established between the inner core  8522  and the control circuit  8560  when the inner core  8522  is assembled with the outer housing  8524 . The control circuit  8560  includes a processor  8562  and a storage medium such as, for example, a memory unit  8564 . The control circuit  8560  can be powered by the power-pack  8526 , for example. The memory unit  8564  may store program instructions, which when executed by the processor  8562 , may cause the processor  8562  to adjust/perform various control functions of the surgical instrument system  8500 . 
     In the illustrated example, the control circuit  8560  is releasably couplable to the inner core  8522 . When the inner core  8522  is assembled with the outer housing  8524 , an electrical connection is established between the inner core  8522  and the control circuit  8560 . In other examples, however, the control circuit  8560  is incorporated into the inner core  8522 . 
     In various examples, the memory unit  8564  may be non-volatile memories, such as, for example, electrically erasable programmable read-only memories. The memory unit  8564  may have stored therein discrete operating parameters of inner core  8522  that correspond to the operation of one type of end effector, for example, end effectors such as, for example end effector  8540  and/or one type of adapter assembly such as, for example, shaft assembly  8530 . The operating parameter(s) stored in memory  8564  can be at least one of: a speed of operation of motors of inner core  8522 ; an amount of power to be delivered by motors of inner core  8522  during operation thereof; which motors of inner core  8522  are to be actuated upon operating inner core  8522 ; types of functions of end effectors to be performed by inner core  8522 ; or the like. 
     Referring still to  FIGS.  1 - 3   , the surgical instrument system  8500  includes an electrical interface assembly  8570  configured to transmit at least one of data signal and power between the inner core  8522  and the end effector  8540 . In the illustrated example, the electrical interface assembly  8570  includes a first interface portion  8580  on a first side  8525   a  of the sterile barrier  8525  and a second interface portion  8590  on a second side  8525   b  of the sterile barrier  8525  opposite the first side. In various aspects, the first interface portion  8580  is configured to form a wireless electrical interface with the second interface portion  8590 . The wireless electrical interface facilitates a wireless transmission of at least one of data signal and power between the inner core  8522  and the second interface portion  8590 . 
     Furthermore, the electrical interface assembly  8570  includes an exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8600 . In the illustrated example, the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8600  is separately-attachable to the second interface portion  8690  to facilitate a wired transmission of the at least one of data signal and power between the second interface portion  8590  and the end effector  8540 . 
     In various aspects, the first interface portion  8580  and the second interface portion  8590  are configured to cooperatively form a wireless segment of an electrical pathway between the inner core  8522  and the end effector  8540 . In addition, the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8600  forms a wired segment of the electrical pathway. At least one of data signal and power is transmitted between the inner core  8522  and the end effector  8540  through the electrical pathway. 
     Referring still to  FIGS.  1 - 3   , the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8600  includes a wire flex circuit  8601  terminating at an attachment member  8602  releasably couplable to the second interface portion  8590 . The wire flex circuit  8601  is of sufficient length to permit the attachment member  8602  to exteriorly reach the second interface portion  8590 . 
     The attachment member  8602  is magnetically couplable to the second interface portion  8590 . For example, the attachment member  8602  includes magnetic elements  8606 ,  8608  disposed in the housing  8604 . The first interface portion  8580  includes ferrous elements  8576 ,  8578  for magnetic attachment and proper alignment of the attachment member  8602  onto the outer housing  8524 , as illustrated in  FIG.  3   . 
     The ferrous elements  8576 ,  8578  are disposed on an outer housing  8523  of the inner core  8522  such that the ferrous elements  8576 ,  8578  and the magnetic elements  8606 ,  8608  are aligned when the inner core  8522  is properly positioned within the disposable outer housing  8524  and the attachment member  8602  is properly positioned against the second interface portion  8590 . 
     Alternatively, in certain examples, magnetic elements can be disposed on the outer housing  8523  of the inner core  8522 , and the ferrous elements can be disposed on the housing  8604  of the attachment member  8602 . Alternatively, in certain examples, corresponding magnetic elements can be disposed on both of the housings  8604 ,  8523 . 
     Further to the above, another exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8611  connects the shaft assembly  8530  to the second interface portion  8590 . The exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8611  is similar in many respects to the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8600 . For example, the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8611  also includes a wire flex circuit  8612  that terminates in an attachment member  8613  that is similar to the attachment member  8602  of the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8600 . The attachment member  8613  is also magnetically-couplable to the handle assembly  85   20  to exteriorly transmit at least one of data and power between the shaft assembly  8530  and the inner core  8522 . 
     Further to the above, the electrical interface assembly  8570  utilizes inductive elements  8603 ,  8583  positionable on opposite sides of the sterile barrier  8525 . In the illustrated example, the inductive elements  8603 ,  8583  are in the form of wound wire coils that are components of inductive circuits  8605 ,  8585 , respectively. The wire coils of the inductive elements  8603 ,  8583  comprise a copper, or copper alloy, wire; however, the wire coils may comprise suitable conductive material, such as aluminum, for example. The wire coils can be wound around a central axis any suitable number of times. 
     When a proper magnetic attachment is established by the elements  8608 ,  8606 ,  8576 ,  8578 , as illustrated in  FIG.  3   , the wire coils of the inductive elements  8603 ,  8583  are properly aligned about a central axis extending therethrough. The proper alignment of the wire coils of the inductive elements  8603 ,  8583  improves the wireless transmission of the at least one of data and power therethrough. 
     In various examples, the inductive circuit  8585  is electrically coupled to the power-pack  8526  and the control circuit  8560 . In the illustrated example, the inductive circuit  8605  is electrically couplable to a transponder  8541  in the end effector  8540 . To transmit signals to the transponder  8541  and receive signals therefrom, the inductive element  8603  is inductively coupled to the inductive element  8583 . The transponder  8541  may use a portion of the power of the inductive signal received from the inductive element  8603  to passively power the transponder  8541 . Once sufficiently powered by the inductive signals, the transponder  8541  may receive and transmit data to the control circuit  8560  in the handle assembly via the inductive coupling between the inductive circuits  8605 ,  8585 . 
     In various examples, as illustrated in  FIG.  1   , the transponder  8541  is located in the shaft portion  8542  of the end effector  8540 . In other examples, the transponder  8541  can be disposed in the jaws of the end effector  8540 . In the illustrated example, the end effector  8540  includes a staple cartridge  8543 . In certain instances, the transponder  8541  can be located in the staple cartridge  8543 . Internal wiring within the shaft portion  8542  connects the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8600  to the transponder  8541 . In the illustrated example, the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection  8600  includes an attachment member  8609  configured to connect the wire flex circuit  8601  to the shaft portion  8542 . In certain instances, the attachment member  8609  is permanently connected to the shaft portion  8542 . In other instances, the attachment member  8609  is releasably coupled to the shaft portion  8542 . 
     To transmit signals to the transponder  8541 , the control circuit  8560  may comprise an encoder for encoding the signals and a modulator for modulating the signals according to the modulation scheme. The control circuit  8560  may communicate with the transponder  8541  using any suitable wireless communication protocol and any suitable frequency (e.g., an ISM band). 
     In various examples, the control circuit  8560  through queries identification devices (e.g., radio frequency identification devices (RFIDs)), or cryptographic identification devices, can determine whether an attached staple cartridge and/or end effector is compatible with the surgical instrument system  8500 . An identification chip and/or an interrogation cycle can be utilized to assess the compatibility of an attached staple cartridge and/or end effector. Various identification techniques are described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,627,995, entitled ELECTRICALLY SELF-POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CRYPTOGRAPHIC IDENTIFICATION OF INTERCHANGEABLE PART, issued Jan. 14, 2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
       FIG.  4    is a logic flow diagram of a process  8610  depicting a control program or a logic configuration electrically connecting an inner core  8522  of a surgical instrument system (e.g. surgical instrument system  8500 ) with a staple cartridge (e.g. staple cartridge  8543 ) or an end effector (e.g. end effector  8540 ). The process  8610  includes detecting  8612  a compatible connection between the end effector  8540  and the inner core  8522 , more specifically the control circuit  8560 , through the electrical interface assembly  8570 . The process  8610  further includes adjusting  8614  a signal parameter of a signal passing through the electrical interface assembly  8570  to improve a throughput of the at least one of data and power between the end effector  8540  and the inner core  8522 . 
     In the illustrated example, the process  8610  is implemented by the control circuit  8560 . The memory unit  8564  may store program instructions, which when executed by the processor  8562 , may cause the processor  8562  to perform one or more aspects of the process  8610 . In other examples, one or more aspects of the process  8610  can be implemented by a connection circuit separate from, but can be in communication with, the control circuit  8560 . The connection circuit can incorporated into the disposable outer housing  8524  of the handle assembly  8520 , for example. 
     In various aspects, the end effector  8540  includes a memory unit that stores an identification code. The control circuit  8560  may assess whether a compatible connection exists between the end effector  8540  and the inner core  8522  based on the identification code retrieved from the memory unit through the electrical interface assembly  8570 . 
     In various aspects, the electrical interface assembly  8570  includes one or more sensors configured to detect, measure, and/or monitor aspects of the signal transmitted through the electrical interface assembly  8570 . The control circuit  8560  may further adjust one or more aspects of the signal such as, for example, the signal strength, frequency, and/or bandwidth and/or adjust power levels to optimize the throughput of the at least one of data and power between the end effector  8540  and the inner core  8522  through the electrical interface assembly  8570 . In various aspects, the control circuit  8560  can determine if the surgical instrument system  8500  is within an environment where one or more components or connections of the electrical interface assembly  8570  are shorted and/or the signal is lost. In response, the control circuit  8560  may adjust the signal frequency, signal strength, and/or signal repeat in order to improve data or power throughput. In at least one example, the control circuit  8560  may respond by turning off one or more connections in order to improve other connections of the electrical interface assembly  8570 . 
     Referring primarily to  FIGS.  5  and  6   , the control circuit  8560  may set one or more operational parameter of the surgical instrument system  8500  based on an identifier received through the electrical interface assembly  8570 .  FIG.  5    depicts a graph  8620  that represents several control schemes (e.g.  8621 ,  8622 ,  8623 ,  8624 ,  8625 ,  8626 ,  8627 ) that can be stored in the memory unit  8564 , and can be selected by the processor  8562  based on the identifier received through the electrical interface assembly  8570 . The graph  8620  includes an x-axis representing drive member travel distance in millimeters (mm) and a y-axis representing drive member speed in millimeters per second (mm/sec). 
     The drive member is motivated by the motor(s) of the inner core  8522  to effect a closure and/or firing motion of the end effector  8540 . In at least one example, the drive member is motivated by the mortar to advance an I-beam assembly along a predefined firing path to deploy staples from the staple cartridge  8543  into tissue and, optionally, advance a cutting member to cut the stapled tissue in a firing stroke. In such example, the drive member speed of motion and distance traveled from starting position represent the speed of motion of the I-beam assembly and the distance traveled by the I-beam assembly along the predefined firing pathway, respectively. 
     The example control schemes ( 8621 ,  8622 ,  8623 ,  8624 ,  8625 ,  8626 ,  8627 ) represented in the graph  8620  can be stored in the memory unit  8564  in any suitable form such as, for example, tables and/or equations. In various aspects, the control schemes ( 8621 ,  8622 ,  8623 ,  8624 ,  8625 ,  8626 ,  8627 ) represent different types and sizes (e.g. 45 mm, 60 mm) of staple cartridges suitable for use with the surgical instrument system  8500  to treat different tissue types with different thicknesses. For example, the control scheme  8621  is for use with a cartridge type suitable for treating thin tissue and, as such, permits relatively faster speeds of motion of the drive member, which yields a higher inertia, which necessitates an earlier slowdown before the end of the firing stroke. Contrarily, the control scheme  8627  is for use with a cartridge type suitable for treating thick tissue and, as such, permits slower speeds of motion of the drive member than the control scheme  8621 . Accordingly, the control scheme  8627  yields a lower inertia than the control scheme  8621 , which justifies a later slowdown before the end of the firing stroke compared to the control scheme  8621 . 
       FIG.  6    depicts another graph  8720  representing additional control schemes ( 8721 ,  8722 ,  8723 ,  8724 ). The graph  8720  illustrates drive member speed on the x-axis and motor current (i) on the y-axis for different cartridge types suitable for different tissue types/thicknesses. The current draw of the motor of the inner core  8522  to achieve a particular speed of the drive member varies depending on the cartridge type. Accordingly, the control circuit  8560  selects from the control schemes ( 8721 ,  8722 ,  8723 ,  8724 ) based on the identifier received through the electrical interface assembly  8570  to ensure a current draw by the motor sufficient to achieve a desired speed as determined by the selected control scheme. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  7   , a surgical instrument system  8800  is similar in many respects to the surgical instrument system  8500 . For example, the surgical instrument system  8800  also includes a handle assembly  8820  that includes an inner core  8822  which has a motor assembly for motivating a drive member configured to effect a closure motion and/or a firing motion in an end effector  8540 . The inner core  8822  further includes an internal power pack  8826  that powers the motor assembly and a control circuit  8860 . In various aspects, the power pack  8826  comprises one or more batteries, which can be rechargeable. In certain aspects, the power pack  8826  can be releasably couplable to the inner core  8822 . 
     Similar to the control circuit  8560 , the control circuit  8860  includes a memory unit that stores program instructions. The program instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to control the motor assembly, a feedback system, and/or one or more sensors. In various examples, the feedback system can be employed by the control circuit  8860  to perform a predetermined function such as, for example, issuing an alert when one or more predetermined conditions are met. In certain instances, the feedback systems may comprise one or more visual feedback systems such as display screens, backlights, and/or LEDs, for example. In certain instances, the feedback systems may comprise one or more audio feedback systems such as speakers and/or buzzers, for example. In certain instances, the feedback systems may comprise one or more haptic feedback systems, for example. In certain instances, the feedback systems may comprise combinations of visual, audio, and/or haptic feedback systems, for example. 
     Still referring to  FIG.  7   , a wireless power transfer system  8850  is utilized to wirelessly transmit power across a sterile barrier created by a disposable outer housing  8824  disposed around the inner core  8822 . The disposable outer housing  8824  is similar in many respects to the disposable outer housing  8524 . For example, the disposable outer housing  8824  may include two housing portions detachably couplable to one another to permit insertion of the inner core  8822  inside the disposable outer housing  8824 . The inner core  8822  is sealed inside the disposable outer housing  8824 , thereby creating the sterile barrier around the inner core  8822 . 
     The wireless power transfer system  8850  utilizes magnetic coupling of bearings to drive mechanical work to ultimately be converted to usable electrical energy. The wireless power transfer system  8850  includes an internal power transfer unit  8852  and an external disposable energy receiver/converter  8854 . In the illustrated example, the internal power transfer unit  8852  and the external disposable energy receiver/converter  8854  are positioned on opposite sides of the sterile barrier defined by the disposable outer housing  8824 . 
     The internal power transfer unit  8852  is positioned inside the disposable outer housing  8824 , and is hardwired to the power pack  8826 . In one example, the internal power transfer unit  8852  is attached to an inner wall of the disposable outer housing  8824 , and is releasably connected to the power pack  8826 . When the inner core  8822  is properly positioned within the disposable outer housing  8824 , an external connector thereof is brought into a mating engagement with a corresponding connector of the internal power transfer unit  8852 . When the connectors are engaged, the power pack  8826  and the internal power transfer unit  8852  become electrically connected. In other examples, however, the inner core  8822  may include an external wiring that can be manually connected to the internal power transfer unit  8852 . 
     In other examples, the internal power transfer unit  8852  is incorporated into the inner core  8822 . In such examples, the internal power transfer unit  8852  is positioned near an external housing of the inner core  8822  in such a manner that brings the internal power transfer unit  8852  into a proper operational alignment with the external disposable energy receiver/converter  8854  when the inner core  8822  is finally positioned within the disposable outer housing  8824 . 
     Further to the above, the internal power transfer unit  8852  includes a magnetic bearing  8856 . The control circuit  8860  causes a current to drive the rotation of the magnetic bearing  8856 . The mechanical energy is magnetically transmitted across the sterile barrier to the external disposable energy receiver/converter  8854 , and is converted again to electrical energy via a linear alternator  8857 . The external disposable energy receiver/converter  8854  includes a magnetic bearing  8858  configured to rotate with rotation of the magnetic bearing  8856 . In operation, the magnetic bearing  8858  is synchronized to the rotation of the magnetic bearing  8856 , which causes mechanical work to be generated externally in an outer power transfer unit  8854 . The generated mechanical work is harnessed and converted to electrical energy via the linear alternator  8857  and is then available for utilization with an end effector  8540 , for example. In various aspects, a gear assembly  8859  is utilized to transfer the mechanical energy from the magnetic bearing  8858  to the linear alternator  8857 . 
     In various instances, power transfer across the sterile barrier can be achieved via a direct conductive connection is between the internal and external environments. A specific region of the outer disposable housing can be over-molded onto a metal strip that extends the thickness of the sterile barrier when implemented. The over-molding will allow for tight seals to remove the chance of contaminants getting through, and once the outer housing is transitioned to a closed configuration to create the sterile barrier, the metal strip will act as a conductive bridge allowing energy to be transferred directly to the external environment. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  8  and  9   , a surgical instrument system  8900  is similar in many respects to the surgical instrument systems  8500 ,  8800 . For example, the surgical instrument system  8900  also includes a handle assembly  8920  that includes an inner core  8922  which has a motor assembly for motivating a drive member configured to effect a closure motion and/or a firing motion in an end effector  8940 . 
     In addition, the surgical instrument system  8900  includes a shaft  8930  with a nozzle portion  8930   a  and a shaft portion  8930   b  extending distally from the nozzle portion  8930   a.  The nozzle portion  8930   a  permits rotation of the end effector  8940  relative to the handle assembly  8920 . A flex circuit  8934  is configured to transmit power to the end effector  8940  through the nozzle portion  8930   a.  The flex circuit  8934  comprises a proximal flex circuit segment  8934   a  disposed on the handle assembly  8920  and a distal flex circuit segment  8934   c  disposed on the shaft portion  8930   b  and the end effector  8940 . 
     In addition, the flex circuit  8934  includes a conductive metal segment  8934   b  frictionally connected to the proximal flex circuit segment  8934   a  and fixedly connected to the distal flex circuit segment  8934   c.  The conductive metal segment  8934   b  facilitates rotation of the shaft  8930  and the end effector  8940  relative to the handle assembly  8920  while maintaining an electrical connection between the handle assembly  8920  and the end effector  8940 . In the illustrated example, the conductive metal segment  8934   b  includes a conductive ring  8935  frictionally attached to the proximal flex circuit segment  8934   a.    
     Further to the above, the flex circuit  8934  is configured to transmit power from an external power source  8926  to the end effector  8940 . The external power source  8926  is disposed onto the disposable outer housing  8924 . A connection between the external power source  8926  and the flex circuit  8934  can be protected from surrounding environment by being partially, or fully, embedded in the disposable outer housing  8924 , for example. In the illustrated example, the external power source  8926  includes a connection port  8927  configured to receive a proximal end of the proximal flex circuit segment  8934   a.    
     Additionally, the inner core  8922  may include an internal power pack that powers the motor assembly and a control circuit. In various aspects, the power pack electrically coupled to the flex circuit  8934  and/or the external power source  8926  by an electrical interface assembly  8570  in a similar manner to that described in connection with the surgical instrument system  8500 . In certain examples, the external power source  8926  is fully replaced by the internal power pack of the inner core  8922 . In such examples, power is transmitted to the flex circuit  8934  from the internal power pack through the sterile barrier via the electrical interface assembly  8570 . 
     Further to the above, the flex circuit  8934  may also include an end effector segment  8934   d  configured to connect the distal flex circuit segment  8934   c  to a staple cartridge  8944  releasably coupled to the end effector  8940 . The end effector segment  8930   d  comprises sufficient slack to prevent over extension of the end effector segment  8930   d,  which can be caused by end effector motions. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  10   , a surgical instrument system  9000  is similar in many respects to the surgical instrument system  8500 . For example, the surgical instrument system  9000  also includes a handle assembly  9020  that includes an inner core  9022  which has a motor assembly for motivating a drive member configured to effect a closure motion and/or a firing motion in an end effector (e.g. end effector  8540 ). A disposable outer housing  9024  defines a sterile barrier  9025  around the inner core  9022 . 
     The handle assembly  9020  further includes an electrical interface assembly  9070  configured to transmit at least one of data signal and power between the inner core  8922  and the end effector  8540  through the sterile barrier  9025  defined by the disposable outer housing  9024 . The electrical interface assembly  9070  includes an internal piezoelectric transducer  9071  coupled to an internal power pack  9026  configured to energize the internal piezoelectric transducer  9071 . The electrical interface assembly  9070  further includes a lens coupled to the internal piezoelectric transducer  9071 , and configured to focus ultrasound energy generated by the internal piezoelectric transducer  9071  through a gel-like membrane  9072  into an external piezoelectric transducer  9073 . Accordingly, electrical energy provided by the power pack  9026  is converted into ultrasound energy that is transmitted across the sterile barrier  9025  to be received by the external piezoelectric transducer  9073 . The ultrasound energy is then transferred to electrical energy by the external piezoelectric transducer  9073 . In certain instances, a flex circuit further transmits the electrical energy to an end effector, for example. 
       FIG.  11    depicts a modular surgical instrument system  9100  similar in many respects to the surgical instrument system  8500 . For example, the modular surgical instrument system  9100  also includes a handle assembly  9120 , a shaft  9130 , and a loading unit  9140  including a proximal shaft portion  9140   a  and an end effector  9140   b.  The loading unit  9140  is releasably connectable to a distal shaft portion  9130   b  of the shaft  9130 . A nozzle portion  9130   a  of the shaft  9130  is also releasably connectable to the handle assembly  9120 . Furthermore, a staple cartridge  9144  is releasably connectable to the end effector  9140   b.  In other instances, the staple cartridge is integrated with the end effector  9140   b.    
     Like the handle assembly  8520 , the handle assembly  9120  includes an inner core  9122  and a disposable outer housing  9124  configured to selectively receive and encase the inner core  9122  to establish a sterile barrier  9125  around the inner core  9122 . Inner core  9122  is motor operable and configured to drive an operation of a plurality of types of end effectors. Inner core  9122  has a plurality of sets of operating parameters (e.g., speed of operation of motors of inner core  9122 , an amount of power to be delivered by motors of inner core  9122  to a shaft assembly, selection of motors of inner core  9122  to be actuated, functions of an end effector to be performed by inner core  9122 , or the like). Each set of operating parameters of inner core  9122  is designed to drive the actuation of a specific set of functions unique to respective types of end effectors when an end effector is coupled to inner core  9122 . For example, inner core  9122  may vary its power output, deactivate or activate certain buttons thereof, and/or actuate different motors thereof depending on the type of end effector that is coupled to inner core  9122 . 
     The inner core  9122  defines an inner housing cavity that accommodates a power pack and one or more motors powered by the power pack. The rotation of motors function to drive shafts and/or gear components of the shaft  9130 , for example, in order to drive the various operations of end effectors attached thereto, for example, end effector  9140 . 
     Further to the above, the outer housing  9124  includes two housing portions  9124   a ,  9124   b  releasably attached to one another to permit assembly with the inner core  9122 . In the illustrated example, the housing portion  9124   b  is movably coupled to the housing portion  9124   a  by a hinge located along an upper edge of the housing portion  9124   b.  Consequently, the housing portions  9124   a,    9124   b  are pivotable relative to one another between a closed, fully coupled configuration, as shown in  FIG.  11   , and an open, partially detached configuration. When joined, the housing portions  9124   a,    9124   b  define a cavity therein in which inner core  9122  may be selectively situated. 
     Similar to the control circuit  8560 , the control circuit  9160  includes a memory unit that stores program instructions. The program instructions, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to control the motor assembly, a feedback system, and/or one or more sensors, for example. In various examples, the feedback system can be employed by the control circuit  9160  to perform a predetermined function such as, for example, issuing an alert when one or more predetermined conditions are met. In certain instances, the feedback systems may comprise one or more visual feedback systems or a visual interface such as display screens, backlights, and/or LEDs, for example. In certain instances, the feedback systems may comprise one or more audio feedback systems such as speakers and/or buzzers, for example. In certain instances, the feedback systems may comprise one or more haptic feedback systems, for example. In certain instances, the feedback systems may comprise combinations of visual, audio, and/or haptic feedback systems, for example. 
     In various aspects, one or more sensors can be configured to detect or measure whether the disposable outer housing  9124  in an open configuration or a closed configuration. In the illustrated example, a Hall Effect sensor  9123  detects a transition of the housing portion  9124   a,    9124   b  to a closed configuration or to an open configuration. The control circuit  9160  may receive an input signal indicative of whether the disposable outer housing  9124  is in the open configuration or closed configuration. In certain examples, other suitable sensors can be employed to detect the closed configuration and/or the open configuration such as, for example, other magnetic sensors, pressure sensors, inductive sensors, and/or optical sensor. 
     Referring still to  FIG.  11   , the modular surgical instrument system  9100  includes an electrical interface assembly  9170  configured to transmit at least one of data signal and power across the sterile barrier  9125 , outside the sterile barrier  9125 , and/or within the sterile barrier  9125 . The at least one of data signal and power is transmitted between one or more of the modular components of the modular surgical instrument system  9100 . In the illustrated example, the electrical interface assembly  9170  includes a first interface portion  9180  on a first side (inside the disposable outer housing  9124 ) of the sterile barrier  9125  and a second interface portion  9190  on a second side (outside the disposable outer housing  9124 ) of the sterile barrier  9125  opposite the first side. 
     Furthermore, the electrical interface assembly  9170  includes a wiring assembly  9171  that includes exteriorly-mounted wiring connections  9101 ,  9102 ,  9103  that electrically couple the second interface portion  9190  to the loading unit  9140 , a loading unit-to-shaft connection sensor  9141 , and the nozzle portion  9130   a,  respectively, and corresponding internally-mounted wiring connections  9101 ′,  9102 ′,  9103 ′ that couple the first interface portion  9180  to the control circuit  9160 . The wiring connections  9101 ,  9102 ,  9103 ,  9101 ′,  9102 ′,  9103 ′ cooperate with the interface portions  9180 ,  9190  to transmit signals between the control circuit  9160  and the loading unit  9140 , the staple cartridge  9144 , the loading unit-to-shaft connection sensor  9141 , and the nozzle portion  9130   a,  as discussed in greater detail below. In certain instances, a buttress is attached to the staple cartridge  9144 . In such instances, the wiring connections  9101 ,  9101 ′ may facilitation the transmission of signals between the control circuit  9160  and a buttress-attachment sensor configured to detect a buttress unique identifier, for example, as discussed in greater detail below. 
     In addition, the wiring assembly  9171  further includes internally-mounted wiring connections  9104 ,  9105 ,  9106 ,  9107  configured to electrically couple the control circuit  9160  to a handle assembly-to-shaft connection sensor  9131 , the first housing portion  9124   a,  the second housing portion, and an inner core-to-handle assembly connection sensor  9121 . In at least one example, one or more of the wiring connections of the wiring assembly  9161  comprise connector ends releasably couplable to corresponding connector ends of corresponding modular components of the modular surgical instrument system  9100 . 
     In certain examples, the handle assembly  9120  may include an electrical interface assembly that facilitates a wired connection through the sterile barrier  9125 . Wire portions may be passed through the disposable outer housing  9124 . For example, the wire portions can be partially embedded in a handle assembly outer wall. Suitable insulation can be provided to prevent fluid leakage. 
     Referring to  FIG.  12   , various possible modular components of the modular surgical instrument system  9100  are listed along with unique identifier resistances for each of the listed modular components. The listed modular components may facilitate surgical stapling, surgical ultrasonic energy treatment, surgical radio-frequency (RF) energy treatment, and various combinations thereof. 
     The modular components include various types of inner cores, handle assemblies, shafts, loading units, staple cartridges with different types and sizes, and/or buttress attachments with different shapes and sizes, which can be assembled in various combinations to form a modular surgical instrument system  9100 . Since each modular component comprises a unique identifier resistance, a total sensed resistance can be determined to identify a connected modular configuration based on the unique identifier resistances of its modular components. 
     In certain aspects, the control circuit  9160  may compare an expected value of the total sensed resistance to a measured value of the total sensed resistance to verify, or confirm, the identity of the modular components in a modular configuration. In at least one example, the control circuit  9160  may receive user input identifying components of modular configuration through a user interface, for example. Additionally, or alternatively, the control circuit  9160  may directly compare expected values of the identifier resistances to corresponding measured values of the identifier resistances to verify, or confirm, the identity of the modular components in a modular configuration, for example. 
     In other aspects, the control circuit  9160  may compare an expected value of the total sensed resistance to a measured value of the total sensed resistance to assess or detect irregularities in connected modular components of a modular configuration. Additionally, or alternatively, the control circuit  9160  may compare expected values to measured values for each of the modular components to assess or detect irregularities in the connected modular components of a modular configuration. 
     In the illustrated example, a graph  9161  illustrates expected and measured, or detected, identifier resistance values. Based on a comparison of the expected and measured, or detected, resistant identifier values the control circuit  9160  determines that an inner core, a disposable outer housing, a shaft, an end effector, a cartridge, and a buttress with unique identifier resistances R 1a , R 2a , R 3d , R 4c , R 5b , R 6c , respectively, are connected in a modular configuration. 
     In the illustrated examples, lines  9163 ,  9164  illustrate scenarios where an outer housing and a buttress, respectively, are either not connected or are not authentic. Additionally, lines  9165 ,  9166  illustrate scenarios where an outer housing and a buttress, respectively, are connected, but are not authentic. In such complex configurations, checking authenticity of the modular components ensures that the modular configuration will work properly 
     A deviation between the expected and measured, or detected, resistant identifier values may indicate a not-connected status, a not-authentic status, or other irregularities. The amount of deviation dictates whether the control circuit  9160  determines a not-connected status, a not-authentic status, or a connected authentic status. In certain examples, the control circuit  9160  may calculate the deviation amount and compare the calculated deviation amount to a predetermined threshold to assess whether the deviation represents a not-connected status, a not-authentic status, or an authentic/connected status. 
     In certain examples, a deviation magnitude selected from a range of greater than 0% to about 10%, a range of greater than 0% to about 20%, a range of greater than 0% to about 30%, a range of greater than 0% to about 40%, or a range of greater than 0% to about 50% indicates a not-authentic status. In certain examples, a deviation indicative of a not-authentic status is less than a deviation indicative of a not-connected status. 
       FIG.  13    is a logic flow diagram of a process  9150 , depicting a control program or a logic configuration for detecting and/or authenticating a modular configuration of a modular surgical instrument system or assembly. One or more aspects of the process  9150  can be performed by a control circuit such as, for example, the control circuit  9160  of the modular surgical instruments system  9100 . In various aspects, the process  9150  includes generating  9152  an interrogation signal to detect, or confirm identity, of modular components of an assembled modular configuration of a modular surgical instruments system  9100 . In the event, the identities of the modular components are to be confirmed, the identities could be supplied through a user interface coupled to the control circuit  9160 , for example. 
     In any event, the interrogation signal can be transmitted to the modular components of the modular configuration through the wiring assembly  9171  and/or electrical interface assembly  9170 . The interrogation signal may trigger a response signal from the modular components of the modular configuration. The response signal can be detected  9153  and utilized by the control circuit  9160  to detect  9154 , or confirm, identity of the modular components in the modular configuration. 
     As described above in greater detail, each of the modular components available for use with the modular surgical instrument system  9100  includes an identifier resistance unique to the modular component. Accordingly, the control circuit  9160  may utilize the response signal to calculate the identifier resistances of the modular components of the modular configuration. The identities of the modular components of the modular configuration can then be detected  9154 , or confirmed, based on the calculated identifier resistances. Confirmation of the identities of the modular components of the modular configuration can be achieved by the control circuit  9160  by comparing the identities entered through the user interface with the identities detected based on the response signal. 
     In certain aspects, the control circuit  9160  causes a current to pass through the wiring assembly  9171  and the electrical interface assembly  9170  to the modular components of the modular configuration. The return current can then be sampled to calculate a total sensed resistance of the modular configuration. Since each of the individual modular components has a unique identifier resistance, the control circuit  9160  can determine the identities of the individual modular components based on the total sensed resistance of the modular configuration. 
     In certain aspects, the control circuit  9160  compares an expected value of the total sensed resistance to a determined value of the total sensed resistance to confirm a proper assembly of a modular configuration. In at least one form, the expected value is stored in a memory unit, which is accessed by the control circuit  9160  to perform the comparison. 
     A deviation between the expected value and the determined value with a magnitude equal to, or at least substantially equal to, the resistance identifier of one or more modular components causes the control circuit  9160  to conclude that the one or more modular components are not connected in the modular configuration. In response, the control circuit  9160  may assign a not-connected status. The control circuit  9160  may also issue an alert  9151  regarding the one or more modular components through the user interface. The control circuit  9160  may further provide instructions for how to properly connect the deemed-unconnected modular components. 
     In certain instances, the process  9150  may further include assessing  9155  authenticity of the modular configuration based on the response signal. In at least one example, the control circuit  9160  assesses the authenticity of the modular configuration based on a comparison between expected and determined values of the unique identifier resistances of the modular components. The control circuit  9160  may compare the magnitude of a detected deviation between expected and determined values of a unique identifier resistance to a predetermined threshold to assess  9155  authenticity of a detected modular component in a modular configuration. 
     In at least one example, the predetermined threshold is a threshold range. If the magnitude of the detected deviation is beyond, the predetermined threshold, the control circuit  9160  may select a suitable security response  9156  such as, for example, assigning a non-authentic status to the modular component, issuing an alert through the user interface, and/or temporarily deactivating the surgical instrument system  9100 . In various aspects, the threshold range is about ±1%, about ±2%, about ±3%, about ±4%, about ±5%, about ±10%, or about ±20% from the expected value, for example. Other ranges are contemplated by the present disclosure. 
       FIG.  14    is a logic flow diagram of a process  9110 , depicting a control program or a logic configuration for detecting and/or authenticating a modular configuration of a modular surgical instrument system or assembly. One or more aspects of the process  9110  can be performed by a control circuit such as, for example, the control circuit  9160  of the modular surgical instruments system  9100 . In various aspects, the process  9110  includes detecting  9111  an identification signal of an assembled modular configuration of the modular surgical instrument system  9100 . In certain examples, the identification signal is a combined response signal transmitted by modular components of the modular configuration in response to an interrogation signal generated by the control circuit  9160 . 
     Furthermore, the control circuit  9160  may assess authenticity of the modular components of the modular configuration. If  9112  the identification signal is detected, the control circuit  9160  measures  9113  a characteristic of the modular configuration, determines  9114  an authentication key based on at least one measurement of the characteristic, and authenticates  9115  the identification signal based on the authentication key. If  9116  the control circuit  9160  determines that the modular configuration is not authentic, the control circuit  9160  may further generate a security response, as described in connection with the process  9150 . 
     In various aspects, the control circuit  9160  is configured to determine the authentication key independently of the identification signal. The authentication key can be based on a characteristic common among individual modular components of the modular configuration. In at least one example, the common characteristic can be an environmental characteristic. In certain examples, the common characteristic can be a location, a radio-frequency (RF) intensity, a sound level, a light level, and/or a magnetic field strength. 
     In various aspects, a modular component of the modular configuration measures the common characteristic, and generates the authentication key based on at least one measurement of the common characteristic. The modular component may further encode an identification signal based on the generated authentication key, and transmits the encoded identification signal to the control circuit  9160  through the wiring assembly  9171  and/or the electrical interface assembly  9170 . The control circuit  9160  may independently measure the common characteristic, and determine the authentication key based on at least one measurement of the common characteristic. The control circuit  9160  may further utilize the authentication key to authenticate and/or decode the identification signal received from the modular component. 
     In certain examples, the handle assembly  9120  generates a magnetic field with a strength measureable by each of the modular components in a modular configuration. The modular components can utilize the measured magnetic field strength to encode identification signals transmitted to the control circuit  9160  through the wiring assembly  9171  and/or the electrical interface assembly  9170 . In addition, the control circuit  9160  separately determines the strength of the magnetic field. In certain instances, the control circuit  9160  sets the strength of the magnetic field. In other instances, the control circuit  9160  measures the strength in a similar manner to modular components. 
     The control circuit  9160  decodes the encoded identification signals based on an authentication key generated from one or more measurements of the strength of the magnetic field. Measuring the magnetic field can be accomplished by one or more sensors such as, for example, a magnetometer. In other instances, the common characteristic is a radio-frequency (RF) intensity, a sound level, or a light level, the control circuit  9160  employs an RF intensity sensor, an auditory sensor, or a photoelectric sensor, respectively, to measure the common characteristic. 
       FIG.  15    illustrates a handle assembly  9220  of a modular surgical instrument  9200  similar in many respects to the modular surgical instruments  8500 ,  9100 , which are not repeated herein in the same level of detail for brevity. For example, the handle assembly  9220  includes an inner core  9222  and a disposable outer housing  9224  configured to selectively receive and encase inner core  9222  to establish a sterile barrier  9225  around the inner core  9222 . Inner core  9222  is motor operable and configured to drive an operation of a plurality of types of end effectors. Inner core  9222  has a plurality of sets of operating parameters (e.g., speed of operation of motors of inner core  9222 , an amount of power to be delivered by motors of inner core  9222  to a shaft assembly, selection of motors of inner core  9222  to be actuated, functions of an end effector to be performed by inner core  9222 , or the like). Each set of operating parameters of inner core  9222  is designed to drive the actuation of a specific set of functions unique to respective types of end effectors when an end effector is operably coupled to inner core  9222 . For example, inner core  9222  may vary its power output, deactivate or activate certain buttons thereof, and/or actuate different motors thereof depending on the type of end effector that is operably coupled to inner core  9222 . 
     Further to the above, the outer housing  9224  includes two housing portions  9224   a ,  9224   b  releasably attached to one another to permit assembly with the inner core  9222 . In the illustrated example, the housing portions  9224   a,    9224   b  are movable relative to one another between a closed, fully coupled configuration, and an open, partially detached, or fully detached, configuration. When joined, the housing portions  9224   a,    9224   b  define a cavity therein in which inner core  9222  may be selectively situated. 
     Furthermore, the handle assembly  9220  includes a primary interface assembly  9270  configured to transmit at least one of data and power between the inner core  9222  and at least one of modular components of the modular surgical instrument system  9200 . The primary interface assembly  9270  includes a first interface portion  9270   a  disposed onto the inner core  9222  and a second interface portion  9270   b  disposed on an inner wall of the disposable outer housing  9224 . The interface portions  9270   a,    9270   b  include corresponding electrical contacts that become electrically connected, or form an electrical connection, when the inner core  9222  is properly assembled with the disposable outer housing  9224 . In various aspects, the primary interface assembly  9270  facilitates an electrical connection between a power pack  9226  of the inner core  9222  and an external charging system. The primary interface assembly  9270  also facilitates the detection of a modular configuration of the modular surgical instrument system  9200  by transmitting at least one of power and data therethrough between the inner core  9222  and the modular configuration. In at least one example, the electrical contacts comprise spring contacts such as, for example, leaf-spring contacts. 
     In various aspects, the handle assembly  9220  includes a secondary interface  9262  including one or more sensors  9261  configured to detect the presence of the inner core  9222  in the disposable outer housing  9224 . The control circuit  9260  is configured to confirm a primary connection through the primary interface assembly  9270  based on at least one reading of the sensor  9261 . Position and/or sensitivity of a sensor  9261  can be set to detect the inner core  9222  when the inner core  9222  is in the right position and alignment within the disposable outer housing to establish a wired connection between the interface portions  9270   a,    9270   b.  In certain instances, readings from the sensor  9261  must be greater than, or equal, to a predetermined threshold to cause the control circuit  9260  to detect that the inner core  9222  is correctly inserted into the disposable outer housing  9224 . The control circuit  9260  may continuously compare readings of the sensor  9261  to the predetermined threshold to determine whether the inner core  9222  is correctly inserted into the disposable outer housing  9224 . 
     In various aspects, the sensor  9261  comprises a proximity sensor such as, for example, a magnetic sensor, such as a Hall Effect sensor, an inductive sensor, such as an eddy current sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, and/or any other suitable sensor. In certain examples, the control circuit  9260  is configured to identify/detect an inner core  9222  through the secondary interface  9262  based on a unique identifier  9263  of the inner core  9222  such as, for example, a QR code, a resistance identifier, a voltage identifier, and/or a capacitance identifier. 
     Referring still to  FIG.  15   , the control circuit  9260  is further configured to detect a closed configuration of the disposable outer housing  9224  of the handle assembly  9220 . The control circuit  9260  may detect the closed configuration based on at least one reading of at least one sensor  9264  within the disposable outer housing  9224 . In at least one example, the sensor  9264  is a proximity sensor. In the illustrated example, the sensor  9264  is a Hall Effect sensor. In other instances, the sensor  9264  can be an inductive sensor, such as an eddy current sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, and/or any other suitable sensor. 
     Additionally, or alternatively, the control circuit  9260  may detect the closed configuration when an input signal is received from a closed-configuration detection circuit  9265 . Electrical contacts of the closed-configuration detection circuit  9265  are disposed on the housing portions  9224   a,    9224   b  such that the closed-configuration detection circuit  9265  becomes a closed-circuit when the disposable outer housing  9224  is in the closed configuration. The transition to the closed-circuit causes an electrical signal to be transmitted to the control circuit  9260 , which causes the control circuit  9260  to detect/confirm the closed configuration. 
     Referring to  FIG.  16   , a graph  9280  is depicted. Distance (δ) between the housing portions  9224   a,    9224   b  is illustrated on the X-axis, and capacitance measured from the inner core  9222  to the disposable outer housing  9224  is depicted on the Y-axis. In various aspects, the control circuit  9260  is configured to assess a proper assembly of the inner core  9222  with the disposable outer housing  9224  based on the distance between the housing portions  9224   a ,  9224   b,  and based on capacitance measured from the inner core  9222  to the disposable outer housing  9224 . Alternatively, the control circuit  9260  can be configured to assess the proper assembly of the inner core  9222  with the disposable outer housing  9224  based on the distance between the inner core  9222  and the disposable outer housing  9224 , and based on capacitance measured from the inner core  9222  to the disposable outer housing  9224 . 
     In various aspects, a proper assembly of the inner core  9222  with the disposable outer housing  9224  is detected by the control circuit  9260  when two conditions are met, as represented by curved line  9281  of graph  9280 . The first condition is that a detected distance (δ) between a first datum on the first housing-portion  9224   a  and a corresponding second datum on the second housing-portion  9224   b  is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold distance. The second condition is that a detected value of the capacitance measured from the inner core  9222  to the disposable outer housing  9224  is within a predetermined capacitance range (μF min -μF max ). 
     In the illustrated example, curved line  9281  represents a properly assembled handle assembly  9220 , wherein the inner core  9222  is properly positioned within the disposable outer housing  9224 , and wherein the housing portions  9224   a,    9224   b  are properly sealed in the closed configuration. Conversely, curve lines  9282 ,  9283 ,  9284  represent improperly assembled handle assemblies  9220 . The curve line  9282  indicates that a closed configuration has not been achieved, and the curve line  9283  indicates that the inner core  9222  is not properly positioned with thin the disposable outer housing  9224 . 
     Capacitance can also be indicative of authenticity of the inner core  9222  and/or the disposable outer housing  9224 . In the illustrated example, the predetermined capacitance range (μF min -μF max ) also represents a capacitance-based authentication range. For example, curved lines  9281 ,  9282  of graph  9280  represent an authentic inner core  9222  and/or disposable outer housing  9224 , while the curved line  9283  on the graph  9280  illustrates non-authentic inner core  9222  and/or disposable outer housing  9224 . Additionally, the curved line  9284  indicates the absence of a capacitive identifier from the inner core  9222 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  17 - 20   , a surgical instrument system  9300  is similar in many respects to other surgical instrument systems described elsewhere herein such as, for example, the surgical instrument systems  8500 ,  9100 ,  9200 , which are not repeated herein at the same level of detail for brevity. For example, the surgical instrument system  9300  includes a handle assembly  9320 , a shaft assembly  9330 , and a loading unit including an end effector  9340  that releasably accommodates a staple cartridge  9341 . The handle assembly  9320  includes a disposable outer housing  9324  configured to define a sterile barrier  9325 . An inner core is positionable within the disposable outer housing  9324 . The inner core is configured to drive and/or control various functions of the surgical instrument system  9300 , as described elsewhere herein with respect to other similar inner cores. 
     Further to the above, the surgical instrument system  9300  includes an external power source  9326 . In the illustrated example, the external power source  9326  is disposed on to an outer wall of the disposable outer housing  9324 . In other examples, the external power source  9326  can be integrated into the disposable outer housing  9324 . An electrical interface assembly  9328  is configured to transmit at least one of data and power from the handle assembly  9320  to the end effector  9340 . In the illustrated example, the electrical interface assembly  9328  includes a flex circuit  9327  extending between, and coupled to, the external power source  9326  and a data communication band  9332  disposed in a nozzle portion  9331  of the shaft assembly  9330 . In the illustrated example, the data communication band  9332  comprises an annular shape that permits rotation of the nozzle portion  9331  and other portions of the shaft assembly  9330  without wire entanglement. 
     Furthermore, the shaft assembly  9330  includes concentric conductive rings  9337 ,  9338  that facilitate a transmission of the at least one of power and data therebetween without hindering notation of the shaft assembly  9330 . The conductive ring  9337  is disposed on an outer surface of an inner portion  9335 , and the conductive ring is disposed on an inner annular surface of an outer portion  9336 . In the illustrated example, the inner portion  9335  is concentric with the outer portion  9336 . 
       FIG.  21    is a logic flow diagram of a process  9350  depicting a control program or a logic configuration for disabling an inner core of a handle assembly of a surgical instrument system at an end-of-life event. Using the inner core beyond its lifecycle poses a serious risk to the patient. Various circuits and other features of the inner core are carefully designed to ensure a safe operation of the inner core within its lifecycle. Beyond the predetermined lifecycle, however, the inner core may not function properly which, in many events, is not discovered until the handle assembly is actually used in surgery. 
     In various aspects, the process  9350  can be performed by the handle assembly  9220  of the surgical instrument system  9200 , for example. The process  9350  detects  9351  a proper assembly of the inner core  9222  with the disposable outer housing  9224 . A control circuit performing one or more aspects of the process  9350  can be configured to detect the proper assembly based on at least one reading of at least one sensor within the outer housing  9224 . In at least one example, one or more aspects of the process  9350  can be performed by the control circuit  9260  ( FIG.  15   ). As discussed elsewhere herein in greater detail, the control circuit  9260  can be configured to detect a proper assembly of the inner core  9222  with the disposable outer housing  9224  based on readings from the sensors  9261 ,  9264 , for example. 
     In any event, if  9352  a proper assembly is detected, a usage count of the inner core  9222  is increased  9353  by one. In at least one example, the control circuit  9260  is in communication with a counter configured to maintain a usage count of the inner core  9222 . In certain instances, the control circuit  9260  is configured to store the usage in a memory unit, for example. 
     Furthermore, if  9354  the usage count becomes equal to a predetermined threshold number, the process  9355  further determines whether the inner core  9222  is disconnected from the disposable outer housing  9224 . The disconnection indicates a termination of the usage, or completion of the procedure, that constitutes an end-of-life event based on the usage count. If  9355  it is so, the disconnection triggers a disabling event  9356  of the inner core  9222  to prevent unsafe usage beyond the predetermined end-of-life usage count. Normal operation  9357 , however, is continued until the disconnection is detected. 
     Various suitable mechanisms can be employed to disable the inner core  9222  at an end-of-life event. In at least one example, the control circuit  9260  employees a current limiter to ensure that current within the inner core is maintained below a predetermined threshold during normal operation. To disable the inner core  9222 , the control circuit  9260  may remove, disable, or disconnect the current limiter, which causes excessive current to pass through the circuitry of the inner core  9222  thereby disabling the inner core. Disabling the inner core prevents unauthorized use thereof beyond a predetermined lifecycle carefully selected to ensure the safe operation of the handle assembly in surgery. 
       FIGS.  22 - 25    illustrate a safety mechanism for disabling a disposable outer housing  9424  of a handle assembly  9420  to protect against unsafe reuse of the disposable outer housing  9424  beyond its design capabilities. The handle assembly  9420  is similar in many respects to other handle assemblies described elsewhere herein, which are not repeated herein for brevity. For example, like the disposable outer housing  9224 , the disposable outer housing  9424  is configured to selectively receive and encase inner core  9422  to establish a sterile barrier around the inner core  9422 . 
     Furthermore, the outer housing  9424  includes two housing portions movable relative to one another between a closed, fully coupled configuration, and an open, partially detached, or fully detached, configuration to accommodate insertion of the inner core  9422  therein. When joined, the housing portions define a cavity therein in which inner core  9222  may be selectively situated. 
     The inner core  9422  includes a power source  9426  that can be in the form of one or more batteries. In an assembled configuration, as illustrated in  FIG.  22   , connector wires  9427 ,  9428  electrically connect the inner core  9422  to the disposable outer housing  9424 . In various aspects, as illustrated in  FIG.  23   , the disposable outer housing  9424  includes one or more cutting members  9437 ,  9438  configured to cut, or several, one or both of the connector wires  9427 ,  9428  thereby permanently disconnecting a circuit electrically coupling the disposable outer housing  9424  to the inner core  9422 , which disables the disposable outer housing  9424 , as illustrated in  FIG.  24   . In an alternative embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG.  25   , connector wires  9447 ,  9448 , which are similar to the connector wires  9427 ,  9428 , include weekend, or tethering, portions  9457 ,  9458  that are severed when the housing portions of the disposable outer housing are transitioned to the open configuration. 
     In certain instances, a connector wire of a disposable outer housing is coupled to an identifier  9429  of the disposable outer housing. In the example illustrated in  FIG.  24   , the connector wire  9427  is coupled to an RFID chip that is disabled on the connector wire  9427  is cut by the cutting member  9437  during a transition of the disposable outer housing  9424  to an open configuration. Disabling the identifier  9429  prevents an inner core from establishing a successful connection with a used disposable outer housing. 
       FIGS.  26 - 27    illustrate additional safety mechanisms for disabling a disposable outer housing  9524  of a handle assembly  9520  to protect against unsafe reuse of the disposable outer housing  9524  beyond its design capabilities. The handle assembly  9520  is similar in many respects to other handle assemblies described elsewhere herein, which are not repeated herein for brevity. For example, like the disposable outer housing  9224 , the disposable outer housing  9524  is configured to selectively receive and encase inner core  9522  to establish a sterile barrier  9525  around the inner core  9522 . 
     Furthermore, the outer housing  9524  includes two housing portions  9524   a,    9524   b  movable relative to one another between a closed, fully coupled configuration ( FIG.  26   ), and an open, partially detached, or fully detached, configuration ( FIG.  27   ) to accommodate insertion of the inner core  9522  therein. The handle assembly  9520  further includes an external power source  9526  connected via a connector wire  9527  extending through the sterile barrier  9525  to a control circuit  9560 . In the illustrated example, the external power source  9526  is releasably mounted onto the disposable outer housing  9524 , and the connector wire  9527  is severed when the external power source  9526  is released from the disposable outer housing  9524  after completion of the surgical procedure, which disables the disposable outer housing  9524  thereby preventing unsafe reuse thereof. Furthermore, a second wire connector  9528 , extending between the housing portion  9524   a,    9524   b,  can also be severed when the disposable outer handle  9524  is transitioned to the open configuration to prevent unsafe reuse of the disposable outer housing  9524 . 
     Further to the above, in various aspects, as illustrated in  FIGS.  28 - 29   , one or both of the housing portions  9524   a,    9524   b  of a disposable outer housing  9524 ′ ( FIG.  28   ),  9524 ″ ( FIG.  29   ) are equipped with a mechanical connector  9531  ( FIG.  28   ),  9551  ( FIG.  29   ) that maintains the housing portions  9524   a,    9524   b  in a closed configuration, and is severed or broken when the housing portions  9524   a,    9524   b  are pulled apart after completion of a surgical procedure to recover the inner core  9522 , for example. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  30 - 34   , a surgical instrument system  9600  is similar in many respects to the surgical instrument systems  8500 ,  8800 . For example, the surgical instrument system  9600  also includes a handle assembly  9620  that includes an inner core which has a motor assembly for motivating one or more drive members configured to effect a closure motion, an articulation motion, and/or a firing motion of an end effector  9640 . A shaft assembly  9630  extends between the end effector  9640  and the handle assembly  9620  to transmit drive motion from the inner core to the end effector  9640  to deploy staples from a staple cartridge  9641 . 
     The handle assembly  9620  includes a power source  9626  that can be in the form of one or more batteries. A sterilization-detection circuit  9660  is coupled to the power source  9626  and to a receiver  9663  connected to a sensor array  9670  configured to monitor a sterilization status of the handle assembly  9620 . The sensor array  9670  includes a number of sensors  9671  disposed onto an outer surface  9623  of the disposable outer housing  9624 . The sensors  9671  are configured to detect the sterilization statuses of various portions, or zones, of the handle assembly  9620 , which are then communicated to a microcontroller  9661 . The microcontroller  9661  causes a user interface  9662  to present the sterilization statuses, as illustrated in  FIG.  34   . 
     In the illustrated example, the user interface  9662  is in the form of an LED display. A representation of the handle assembly  9620  is displayed onto the LED display. Each of the various portions, or zones, of the handle assembly  9620  is shown in one of two different visual indicators representing either an acceptable sterilization status or an unacceptable sterilization status. The microcontroller  9661  assigns one of the two visual indicators to each of the zones based on at least one reading of at least one of the sensors  9671  in such zone. In the illustrated example, zones 2, 5 are assigned an unacceptable sterilization status, while zones 1, 3, 4, 6 are assigned an acceptable sterilization status. 
     In certain instances, a handle assembly such as, for example, the handle assembly  9620  is re-usable. Accordingly, the handle assembly  9620  is re-sterilized before each use to maintain a sterile surgical field while using the handle assembly  9620  in surgery. In the illustrated example, the handle assembly  9620  is sterilized by exposure to hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ). In at least one example, a clinician may wipe the handle assembly  9620  with hydrogen peroxide wipes to sterilize the handle assembly  9620 . In other examples, other means of sterilizing the handle assembly  9620  via hydrogen peroxide can be employed, as described elsewhere in the present disclosure in greater detail. 
     In certain instances, a handle assembly may include a disposable outer housing and a reusable inner core. In such instances, the sensors  9671  can be disposed onto an outer surface of the inner core to evaluate sterilization statuses of various portions, or zones, of the inner core in a similar manner to that described in connection with the handle assembly  9620 . 
     In the event hydrogen peroxide is employed, the sensors  9671  of the sensor array  9670  are hydrogen peroxide sensors configured to detect the presence of hydrogen peroxide in each of the zones of the handle assembly  9620 . Accordingly, the sensor readings of a sensor  9671  can indicate the amount of hydrogen peroxide detected by the sensor  9671  in a portion, or zone, of the handle assembly  9620  where the sensor  9671  resides. As illustrated in graph  9672  of  FIG.  35   , an acceptable sterilization status corresponds to a reading of the sensor  9671  that is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold  9673 . 
     Further to the above,  FIG.  36    is a logic flow diagram of a process  9680  depicting a control program or a logic configuration for detecting an end of a lifecycle of a re-serializable component of a surgical instrument system such, as for example, a handle assembly or an inner core. The process  9680  detects the end of the lifecycle by counting the number of times the component has been re-sterilized. 
     In at least one example, the process  9680  can be implemented by the sterilization-detection circuit  9660 . If  9681  the microcontroller  9661  detects a sensor reading greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold  9673 , the microcontroller  9661  increases a count kept by any suitable counter by one. In the event, the re-sterilization is performed by hydrogen peroxide, the sensor reading increases to reach a peak value, then decreases as the hydrogen peroxide begins to evaporate, as illustrated in  FIG.  35   . To avoid false counts, the microcontroller  9661  is configured to ignore  9683  sensor readings for a predetermined time period. 
     In certain instances, as illustrated in  FIG.  37   , a component of a surgical instrument system such as, for example, a handle assembly  9720  includes an outer surface  9723  coated with a coating that changes color upon exposure to a sterilization solution such as, for example, hydrogen peroxide. The coating provides a visual indicator of areas  9720   a  of the handle assembly  9720  that have been sufficiently exposed to hydrogen peroxide and areas  9720   b  that have not been sufficiently exposed to hydrogen peroxide. This gives the clinician a chance to ensure application of the sterilization solution to all portions of the handle assembly  9720  with sufficient quantities to yield a properly sterilized handle assembly  9720 ′. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  38 - 40   , a re-sterilization system  9800  is depicted. The re-sterilization system  9800  includes a receiving chamber  9801  configured to accommodate a re-usable handle assembly  9820  of a surgical instrument system. In other instance, however, the re-sterilization system  9800  can be configured to accommodate other components of a surgical instrument system such as, for example, an inner core a handle assembly. 
     In the illustrated example, the re-sterilization system  9800  includes two portions  9800   a ,  9800   b  movable between an open configuration,  FIG.  38   , and a closed configuration,  FIG.  39   , to accommodate the re-usable handle assembly  9820 . A receiving chamber  9801  is defined between the portions  9800   a,    9800   b  of the re-sterilization system  9800 . Furthermore, a number of irrigation ports  9806  are defined in the portion  9800   b.  Additionally, or alternatively, irrigation ports can be defined in the portion  9800   a.  Furthermore, the re-sterilization system  9800  includes a charging port  9804  and corresponding connectors  9805  configured to connect the handle assembly  9820  to a charging system while the handle assembly  9820  is in the receiving chamber. 
     In various aspects, the irrigation ports  9802  are connected to a source of sterilization solution that is delivered through the irrigation ports  9802  into the receiving chamber  9801 . A pump can be utilized to inject the sterilization solution through the irrigation ports  9802  and to remove it in a re-sterilization cycle. In an alternative embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG.  39   , a re-sterilization system  9800 ′ includes a receiving chamber  9811  that includes an absorbent material or cloth  9812  saturated with a sterilization solution. A motor  9814  causes a driver  9813  to repeatedly move the cloth  9812  between a starting position and an end position relative to a handle assembly  9820  to re-sterilize the handle assembly. Alternatively, the motor  9814  may cause the driver  9813  to move the handle assembly  9820  between a starting position and an end position relative to the cloth  9812 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  15  and  41   , in certain instances, the primary interface assembly  9270  includes a wireless electrical interface  9230  and a wired electrical interface  9240 . As illustrated in  FIG.  41   , the wireless electrical interface  9230  and the wired electrical interface  9240  are configured to transmit at least one of data and power through the sterile barrier  9225 . The at least one of power and data can be transmitted between the inner core  9222  and an end effector and/or a shaft assembly of the surgical instrument system  9200 . In various aspects, the first wireless interface portion  9231  and the second wireless interface portion  9232  are configured to cooperatively form a wireless segment of an electrical pathway between the inner core  9222  and the end effector and/or between the inner core  9222  and the shaft assembly. Additionally, one or more flex circuits can be configured to define one or more segment of the electrical pathway. 
     In the illustrated example, the wireless electrical interface  9230  includes a first wireless interface portion  9231  housed by the inner core  9222 , and a second wireless interface portion  9232  releasably attachable to an outer wall  9227  of the disposable outer housing  9224 . In other examples, the second wireless interface portion  9232  is integrated with the outer wall  9227  of the disposable outer housing  9224 . In the illustrated example, the first wireless interface portion  9231  is located within an outer wall  9229  of the inner core  9222 . In other examples, however, the first wireless interface portion  9231  can be, at least partially, disclosed on an outer surface of the outer wall  9229 . 
     Further to the above, second wireless interface portion  9232  is magnetically couplable to the first wireless interface portion  9231  when the inner core  9222  is properly positioned within the disposable outer housing  9224 . In the illustrated example, the second wireless interface portion  9232  includes attachment elements  9233 ′,  9234 ′ therefore magnetically couplable to corresponding attachment elements  9233 ,  9234  of the first wireless interface portion  9231 . In certain instances, the attachment elements  9233 ′,  9234 ′ are magnetic elements, and the corresponding attachment elements  9233 ,  9234  are ferrous elements. In other instances, the attachment elements  9233 ′,  9234 ′ are ferrous elements, and the corresponding attachment elements  9233 ,  9234  are magnetic elements. In other instances, the attachment elements  9233 ′,  9234 ′ and the corresponding attachment elements  9233 ,  9234  are magnetic elements. 
     The attachment elements  9233 ,  9234 ,  9233 ′,  9234 ′ cooperate to ensure a proper alignment between an inductive element  9235  of the first wireless interface portion  9231  and a corresponding inductive element  9235 ′ of the second wireless interface portion  9232 , as illustrated in  FIG.  41   . In the illustrated example, the inductive elements  9235 ,  9235 ′ are in the form of wound wire coils that are components of inductive circuits  9236 ,  9236 ′, respectively. The wire coils of the inductive elements  9235 ,  9235 ′ comprise a copper, or copper alloy, wire; however, the wire coils may comprise suitable conductive material, such as aluminum, for example. The wire coils can be wound around a central axis any suitable number of times. 
     When a proper magnetic attachment is established by the elements  9233 ,  9234 ,  9233 ′,  9234 ′, as illustrated in  FIG.  41   , the wire coils of the inductive elements  9235 ,  9235 ′ are properly aligned about a central axis extending therethrough. The proper alignment of the wire coils of the inductive elements  9235 ,  9235 ′ improves the wireless transmission of the at least one of data and power therethrough. 
     Further to the above, the wired electrical interface  9240  includes a first wired interface portion  9241  on the first side of the sterile barrier  9225 , and a second wired interface portion  9242  on the second side of the sterile barrier  9225 . In the example illustrated in  FIG.  41   , the wired electrical interface  9240  further includes connectors  9243 ,  9243 ′ configured to cooperate with the first wired interface portion  9241  and second wired interface portion  9242  to facilitate a wired transmission of at least one data and power through the sterile barrier  9225  without contaminating the sterile environment protected by the sterile barrier  9225 . 
     In the illustrated example, the wired electrical interface  9240  defines two wired electrical pathways extending through the sterile barrier  9225 . In other examples, however, the wired electrical interface  9240  may define more or less than two wired electrical pathways. 
     The connectors  9243 ,  9243 ′ include bodies  9244 ,  9244 ′ that extend through the outer wall  9227  of the disposable outer housing  9224 . The connectors  9243 ,  9243 ′ further include inner contacts  9245 ,  9245 ′ that are inside the disposable outer housing  9224 , and outer contacts  9246 ,  9246 ′ that are outside the disposable outer housing  9224 . In the illustrated example, the second wired interface portion  9242  includes flex circuits  9250 ,  9250 ′ terminating at connectors  9247 ,  9247 ′ configured to form a sealed connection with the outer contacts  9246 ,  9246 ′. In the illustrated example, the connectors  9247 ,  9247 ′ comprise insulative outer housings  9248 ,  9248 ′ configured to receive and guide the outer contacts  9246 ,  9246 ′ into an electrical engagement with corresponding electrical contacts of the flex circuit  9250 ,  9250 ′. 
     In various examples, the bodies  9244 ,  9244 ′ are tightly fitted through the outer wall  9227  of the disposable outer housing  9224  to prevent, or at least resist, fluid contamination. In addition, the insulative outer housings  9248 ,  9248 ′ comprise flush ends that rest against an outer surface of the outer wall  9227  to prevent, or at least resist, fluid contact with the outer contacts  9246 ,  9246 ′ in operation. 
     Furthermore, the inner contacts  9245 ,  9245 ′ of the connectors  9243 ,  9243 ′ are configured to engage leaf spring contacts  9249 ,  9249 ′ when the inner core  9222  is properly assembled with the disposable outer housing  9224 . In the illustrated example, the outer walls  9227 ,  9229  comprise portions that are flush with one another to facilitate the wireless connection between the first wireless interface portion  9231  and the second wireless interface portion  9232 . In addition, the outer walls  9227 ,  9229  also comprise portions that are spaced apart to facilitate the wired connection between the inner contacts  9245 ,  9245 ′ and the leaf spring contacts  9249 ,  9249 ′. In the illustrated example, a portion of the outer wall  9227  is slightly raised, which forms an isolated chamber  9255  between the outer walls  9227 ,  9229 . The isolated chamber  9255  has a predetermined depth that ensures a good electrical contact between the inner contacts  9245 ,  9245 ′ and the leaf spring contacts  9249 ,  9249 ′ in the assembled configuration, as illustrated in  FIG.  41   . 
     In various aspects, one or more of the surgical instrument systems of the present disclosure include a display for providing feedback to a user, which may include information about one or more characteristics of the tissue being treated and/or one or more parameters of the surgical instrument system. For example, the display may provide the user with information regarding the size of a staple cartridge assembled was the surgical instrument system and/or a measured thickness of the tissue being treated. In various aspects, the display can be a flexible display, for example. 
     In the example illustrated in  FIG.  41   , a flexible display  9201  is incorporated into the disposable outer housing  9224 . A microcontroller  9202  resides beneath the flexible display  9201 . The flexible display  9201  is configured to face the outside of the disposable outer housing  9224 , while the microcontroller  9202  is configured to face the inside of the disposable outer housing  9224 . The flexible display  9201  can connected through a wireless or a wired electrical interface to a suitable power source. In at least one example, the flexible display  9201  is powered by the power source  9226  of the inner core  9222 . In at least one example, the flexible display  9201  is powered by an external power source attachable to the disposable outer housing  9224 . 
     In other examples, the flexible display  9201  can be incorporated into a shaft of a surgical instrument system. In such examples, the flexible display  9201  is bent to conform to, or at least substantially conform to, the cylindrical shape of the shaft. In certain instances, the flexible display  9201  is incorporated into an outer wall of the shaft. In other instances, however, the flexible display  9201  is positioned underneath, or inside, the shaft, and is visible through a clear outer wall of the shaft. Positioning the flexible display  9201  on the disposable outer housing  9224 , or within the shaft, helps against fog accumulation on the display which may occur if a display is located with the inner core  9222  inside the disposable outer housing  9224  due to the heat generated by the motor assembly of the inner core  9222 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  42 - 44   , an actuator  10000  can be incorporated into a handle assembly of a surgical instrument system such as, for example, the handle assembly  8520  of the surgical instrument system  8500 , the handle assembly  9220  of the surgical instrument system  9200 , and/or the handle assembly  9120  of the surgical instrument system  9100 . The actuator  10000  can be configured to cause an inner core  8522 , for example, to produce drive motions to close, fire, and/or articulate the end effector  8540  that are proportional a mechanical pressure applied by a user, as detected by the actuator  10000 . In various aspects, the actuator  10000  comprises a magnetostrictive transducer configured to change a magnetic field in response to the amount of force applied thereto.  FIG.  43    illustrates different actuation configurations of the actuator  10000 , and the amount of strain produced from null magnetization (configuration 1) to full magnetization (configurations 1, 5). The actuator  10000  is divided into discrete mechanical and magnetic attributes that are coupled in their effect on the magnetostrictive core strain and magnetic induction. 
     Referring still to  FIG.  43   , where no magnetic field is applied, a change in length will also be null along with the magnetic induction produced. Further, the amount of the magnetic field (H) is increased to its saturation limits (±Hsat) at configurations 1, 5. This causes an increase in the axial strain to a maximum value. Configurations 2, 4 represent an intermediate increase in the value of the magnetization but to a lesser extent (±H 1 ) than the configurations 1, 5. The maximum strain saturation and magnetic induction is obtained at the saturation limits (±Hsat). Flux lines associated with configurations 1, 2 are in the opposite direction to flux lines of configurations 4, 5. These flux fields produced are measured using the principle of Hall Effect or by calculating the voltage produced in a conductor kept in right angle to the flux produced, for example. This value will be proportional to the input strain or force. 
     Accordingly, a control circuit  8560 , for example, may adjust the drive motions produced by the inner core  8522 , for example, based on readings of a magnetic sensor configured to measure the flux fields generated by the actuator  10000  in response to an actuation force applied by a user to the actuator  10000 .  FIG.  44    is a graph  10001  that illustrates changes in closure position (Y-axis) of the jaws of the end effector  8540 , for example, in response to actuation force (X-axis) applied by a user, as detected by the actuator  10000 . In the illustrated example, a fully closed configuration of the end effector  8540  corresponds to a predetermined actuation force threshold  10002 , which corresponds to configuration 5 of the actuator  10000 , as illustrated in  FIG.  43   . If the predetermined actuation force threshold  10002  is detected by the control circuit  8560 , based on readings of the magnetic sensor, the control circuit  8560  causes the drive motions to stop by deactivating one or more motors of the inner core  8522 , for example. Furthermore, the control circuit  8560  may further reverse the direction of rotation of the motor to transition the end effector  8540  back to the open configuration. 
     The example illustrated in  FIGS.  42 - 44    illustrate the utilization of the actuator  10000  as an end effector closure actuator. In other examples, the actuator  10000  can be similarly utilized to effect and control a firing motion and/or an articulation motion of the end effector  8540 , for example. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  45  and  46   , a handle assembly  9920  is similar in many respects to other handle assemblies described elsewhere herein such as, for example, the handle assemblies  8520 ,  9120 ,  9220 , which are not repeated herein for brevity. For example, the handle assembly  9920  also includes an inner core  9922  which has a motor assembly for motivating one or more drive members configured to effect a closure motion, an articulation motion, and/or a firing motion in an end effector (e.g. end effector  8540 ). The handle assembly  9920  further includes a disposable outer housing  9924  that includes two housing portions  9924   a,    9924   b  releasably attached to one another to permit assembly with the inner core  9922 . When joined, the housing portions  9924   a,    9924   b  define a cavity therein in which inner core  9922  may be selectively situated within a sterile barrier  9925  defined by an outer wall  9927  of the disposable outer housing  9924 . 
     Further to the above, the handle assembly  9920  includes an actuator  9901  configured to transform changes in an external actuation force (F) applied by a user to the actuator  9901  into changes in an internal magnetic field detectable by one or more magnetic field sensors  9902  within the handle assembly  9920 . The actuator  9901  permits an accurate detection by the inner core  9922  of the changes in the external actuation force (F) without compromising the sterile barrier  9925 . 
     In the illustrated example, the housing portion  9924   b  includes a pressure-sensitive actuation member  9923  configured to detect the changes in the external actuation force (F). A stem  9905  extends from the pressure-sensitive actuation member  9923  inside the disposable outer housing  9924 , and is configured to abut against a rigid surface  9906  of the inner core  9922  when the inner core  9922  is properly assembled with the disposable outer housing  9924 , as illustrated in  FIG.  46   . A wire coil  9903  is wound around the stem  9905 , and is configured to form a magnetic field when a current is passed therethrough. In at least one example, the wire coil  9903  is a part of a circuit powered by a power source  9926  of the inner core  9922 , for example. In a similar manner to that described in connection with the actuator  10000 , changes in the external actuation forces (F) applied to the pressure-sensitive actuation member  9923  cause changes in a magnetic field generated by the wire coil  9903 , which correspond to the changes in the external actuation forces (F). 
     In the illustrated example, the inner core  9922  includes a control circuit  9960  connected to the magnetic field sensor  9902 . The control circuit  9960  is also connected to a motor assembly  9962  of the inner core  9922 , and is configured to cause the motor assembly  9962  to adjust drive motions generated by the motor assembly  9962  in accordance with changes in the external actuation forces (F) as detected by the control circuit  9960  based on readings of the magnetic field sensor  9902 . In various aspects, the drive motions are configured to close, fire, and/or articulate an end effector operably coupled to the hand assembly  9920 . In certain aspects, the control circuit  9960  includes a storage medium such as, for example, a memory unit that stores one or more databases, formulas, and/or tables that can be utilized to select one or more parameters of the drive motions based on the readings of the magnetic field sensor  9902 . 
     In various aspects, the wire coil  9903  comprise a copper, or copper alloy, wire; however, the wire coil  9903  may comprise suitable conductive material, such as aluminum, for example. The wire coil  9903  can be wound around the stem  9905  any suitable number of times. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  47  and  48   , a handle assembly  11020  is similar in many respects to other handle assemblies described elsewhere herein such as, for example, the handle assemblies  9920 ,  8520 ,  9120 ,  9220 , which are not repeated herein for brevity. For example, the handle assembly  11020  also includes an inner core  11022  which has a motor assembly for motivating one or more drive members configured to effect a closure motion, an articulation motion, and/or a firing motion in an end effector (e.g. end effector  8540 ). The handle assembly  11020  further includes a disposable outer housing  11024  that includes two housing portions  11024   a,    11024   b  releasably attached to one another to permit assembly with the inner core  11022 . When joined, the housing portions  11024   a,    11024   b  define a cavity therein in which inner core  11022  may be selectively situated within a sterile barrier  11025  defined by an outer wall  11027  of the disposable outer housing  11024 . 
     Further to the above, the handle assembly  11020  includes an actuator  11001  configured to detect an external compression force (F) applied by a user to the actuator  11001  and, in response, cause an electromechanical member  11023  to produce vibrations when the external actuation force (F) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold  11002 , as illustrated in graph  11004  of  FIG.  49   . In at least one example, the electromechanical member  11023  is in the form of a piezoelectric film or, alternatively, a ceramic member. The electromechanical member  11023  is coupled to a power source  11026  of the inner core  11022  which supplies power to the electromechanical member  11023  when a conductive member closes a circuit connecting the electromechanical member  11023  to the power source  11026 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  50  and  51   , a handle assembly  12020  is similar in many respects to other handle assemblies described elsewhere herein such as, for example, the handle assemblies  9920 ,  8520 ,  9120 ,  9220 ,  11020 , which are not repeated herein for brevity. For example, the handle assembly  12020  also includes an inner core  12022  which has a motor assembly for motivating one or more drive members configured to effect a closure motion, an articulation motion, and/or a firing motion in an end effector (e.g. end effector  8540 ). The handle assembly  12020  further includes a disposable outer housing  12024  that includes two housing portions releasably attached to one another to permit assembly with the inner core  12022 . When joined, the housing portions define a cavity therein in which inner core  12022  may be selectively situated within a sterile barrier  12025  defined by an outer wall  12027  of the disposable outer housing  12024 . 
     Further to the above, the handle assembly  12020  includes an actuator  12001  configured to detect an external compression force (F) applied by a user to the actuator  12001 . The detection occurs across the sterile barrier  12025 . Said another way, the external compression force (F) is applied on a first side of sterile barrier  12025 , and is detected on a second side, opposite the first side, of the sterile barrier  12025 , without compromising the sterile barrier  12025 . In the illustrated example, the actuator  12001  includes components on both sides of the sterile barrier  12025  that are capable of a magnetic interaction across the sterile barrier  12025 . A ferromagnetic plate, or film,  12002  is positioned outside the disposable outer housing  12024 , and a corresponding magnetic sensor  12003  is positioned inside the disposable outer housing  12024 . A movement of the ferromagnetic plate  12002 , in response to the external compression force (F), causes a change in the readings of the magnetic sensor  12003  commensurate with the change in position of the ferromagnetic plate  12002  caused by the external compression force (F). 
     Furthermore, a control circuit  120060  of the handle assembly  12020  may include a microcontroller  120061  configured to adjust drive motions of a motor assembly  120062  in accordance with the readings of the magnetic sensor  12003 . The drive motions may effect one or more of a closure motion, a firing motions, and an articulation motion of an end effector, for example. 
     In the illustrated example, the ferromagnetic plate  12002  extends across a cavity  12031  defined in the outer wall  12027  of the disposable outer housing  12024 . Edges of the ferromagnetic plate  12002  or attached to sidewalls of the cavity  12031 . In the illustrated example, form-in-place seals  12029 ,  12030  are configured to attach the edges of the ferromagnetic plate  12002  to the sidewalls of the cavity  12031 . However, in other examples, it is envisioned that other attachment mechanisms can be employed. In at least one example, an adhesive can be utilized to attach the edges of the ferromagnetic plate  12002  to the sidewalls of the cavity  12031 . 
     Further to the above, the magnetic sensor  12003  protrudes through an outer wall  12028  of the inner core  12022 , and is compressed by a spring  12004  against the outer wall  12027 . The spring  12004  ensures that the magnetic sensor  12003  remains in sufficient proximity to the ferromagnetic plate  12002  to detect changes in the position of the ferromagnetic plate  12002  caused by the external compression force (F). 
     When the inner core  12022  is properly assembled with the disposable outer housing  12024 , the magnetic sensor  12003  and the ferromagnetic plate  12002  are aligned with each other on opposite sides of a wall portion of the outer wall  12027  that forms the cavity  12031 . The ferromagnetic plate  12002  is configured to move, or bend, toward the magnetic sensor  12003  in response to the external compression force (F). The movement of the ferromagnetic plate  12002  changes the readings of the magnetic sensor  12003  in accordance with the magnitude of the external compression force (F). When the user releases the ferromagnetic plate  12002 , or reduces the external compression force (F), the ferromagnetic plate  12002  returns to its natural state, moving away from the magnetic sensor  12003 , which changes the readings of the magnetic sensor  12003  in accordance with the reduction in the external compression force (F). As described above, the microcontroller  120061  is in communication with the magnetic sensor  12003 . Accordingly, the changes in the readings of the magnetic sensor  12003  are translated into changes and drive motions of the motor assembly  120062 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  52 - 54   , alternative actuator embodiments are depicted.  FIG.  52    illustrates a handle assembly  13020  similar in many respects to handle assemblies described elsewhere herein such as, for example, the handle assemblies  9920 ,  8520 ,  9120 ,  9220 ,  11020 ,  12020 , which are not repeated for brevity. For example, the handle assembly  13020  also includes an inner core  13022  which has a motor assembly for motivating one or more drive members configured to effect a closure motion, an articulation motion, and/or a firing motion in an end effector (e.g. end effector  8540 ). The handle assembly  13020  further includes a disposable outer housing  13024  that includes two housing portions releasably attached to one another to permit assembly with the inner core  13022 . When joined, the housing portions define a cavity therein in which inner core  13022  may be selectively situated within a sterile barrier  13025  defined by an outer wall  13027  of the disposable outer housing  13024 . 
     Further to the above, the handle assembly  13020  includes an actuator  13001  similar in many respects to the actuator  12001 , which are not repeated for brevity. The actuator  13001  includes a ferromagnetic plate  13002  similar in many respects to the ferromagnetic plate  12002 . In addition, the ferromagnetic plate  13002  is connected to the inner core  13022  via wire connectors  13023  that extend through an outer wall of the inner core  13022 . Furthermore, an adhesive  13029  is configured to seemingly secure the ferromagnetic plate  13002  to an opening  13031  of the disposable outer housing  13024 . In the illustrated example, the ferromagnetic plate  13002  defines a portion of the outer wall  13027 . 
     In the examples illustrated in  FIGS.  53  and  54   , a flexible rubberized outer cover  13033  is disposed over the ferromagnetic plate  13002  forming a portion of the outer wall  13027 . The flexible rubberized outer cover  13033  can be attached to the outer wall  13027  via a form-in-place seal and/or an adhesive  13034 . The ferromagnetic plate  13002  and the flexible rubberized outer cover  13033  provide a double seal that ensures the integrity of the sterile barrier  13025 . 
     The surgical instrument systems described herein are motivated by an electric motor; however, the surgical instrument systems described herein can be motivated in any suitable manner. In certain instances, the motors disclosed herein may comprise a portion or portions of a robotically controlled system. U.S. application Ser. No. 13/118,241, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,072,535, for example, discloses several examples of a robotic surgical instrument system in greater detail, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. The disclosures of International Patent Publication No. WO 2017/083125, entitled STAPLER WITH COMPOSITE CARDAN AND SCREW DRIVE, published May 18, 2017, International Patent Publication No. WO 2017/083126, entitled STAPLE PUSHER WITH LOST MOTION BETWEEN RAMPS, published May 18, 2017, International Patent Publication No. WO 2015/153642, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION, published Oct. 8, 2015, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017/0265954, filed Mar. 17, 2017, entitled STAPLER WITH CABLE-DRIVEN ADVANCEABLE CLAMPING ELEMENT AND DUAL DISTAL PULLEYS, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017/0265865, filed Feb. 15, 2017, entitled STAPLER WITH CABLE-DRIVEN ADVANCEABLE CLAMPING ELEMENT AND DISTAL PULLEY, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2017/0290586, entitled STAPLING CARTRIDGE, filed on Mar. 29, 2017, are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
     The surgical instrument systems described herein have been described in connection with the deployment and deformation of staples; however, the embodiments described herein are not so limited. Various embodiments are envisioned which deploy fasteners other than staples, such as clamps or tacks, for example. Moreover, various embodiments are envisioned which utilize any suitable means for sealing tissue. For instance, an end effector in accordance with various embodiments can comprise electrodes configured to heat and seal the tissue. Also, for instance, an end effector in accordance with certain embodiments can apply vibrational energy to seal the tissue. 
     EXAMPLES 
     Various aspects of the subject matter described herein are set out in the following numbered examples. 
     Example 1—A surgical instrument system that comprises a shaft and a handle assembly releasably couplable to the shaft. The handle assembly comprises a disposable outer housing defining a sterile barrier. The disposable outer housing comprises a first housing-portion and a second housing-portion movable relative to the first housing-portion between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The handle assembly further comprises a control inner core receivable inside the disposable outer housing in the open configuration. The disposable outer housing is configured to isolate the control inner core within the sterile barrier in the closed configuration. The surgical instrument system further comprises an end effector releasably couplable to the shaft and an electrical interface assembly configured to transmit at least one of data signal and power between the control inner core and the end effector. The electrical interface assembly comprises a first interface portion on a first side of the sterile barrier, a second interface portion on a second side of the sterile barrier opposite the first side. The first interface portion is configured to form a wireless electrical interface with the second interface portion to facilitate a wireless transmission of the at least one of data signal and power between the control inner core and second interface portion. The electrical interface assembly further comprises an exteriorly-mounted wiring connection. The exteriorly-mounted wiring connection is separately-attachable to the second interface portion to facilitate a wired transmission of the at least one of data signal and power between the second interface portion and the end effector. 
     Example 2—The surgical instrument system of Example 1, wherein the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection comprises a flex circuit. 
     Example 3—The surgical instrument system of Examples 1 or 2, wherein the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection is a first exteriorly-mounted wiring connection, wherein the wired transmission of the at least one of data signal and power is a first wired transmission of the at least one of data signal and power, and wherein the electrical interface assembly comprises a second exteriorly-mounted wiring connection separately-attachable to the second interface portion to facilitate a second wired transmission of the at least one of data signal and power between the second interface portion and the shaft. 
     Example 4—The surgical instrument system of Examples 1, 2, or 3, wherein the end effector comprises a shaft portion releasably couplable to the shaft, and wherein the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection extends from the shaft portion. 
     Example 5—The surgical instrument system of Examples 1, 2, 3, or 4, wherein the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection is configured to extend outside the shaft from the shaft portion to the handle assembly. 
     Example 6—The surgical instrument system of Examples 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, wherein the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection terminates in a connector releasably-couplable to the second interface portion. 
     Example 7—A surgical instrument system, comprising a shaft and a handle assembly releasably couplable to the shaft. The handle assembly comprises a disposable outer housing defining a sterile barrier. The disposable outer housing comprises a first housing-portion and a second housing-portion movable relative to the first housing-portion between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The handle assembly further comprises a control inner core receivable inside the disposable outer housing in the open configuration. The disposable outer housing is configured to isolate the control inner core within the sterile barrier in the closed configuration. The surgical instrument system further comprises an end effector releasably couplable to the shaft and an electrical interface assembly. The electrical interface assembly comprises a first interface portion on a first side of the sterile barrier, and a second interface portion on a second side of the sterile barrier opposite the first side. The first interface portion and the second interface portion are configured to cooperatively form a wireless segment of a communication pathway between the control inner core and the storage medium through the sterile barrier. The electrical interface assembly further comprises an exteriorly-mounted wiring connection. The exteriorly-mounted wiring connection is separately-attachable to the second interface portion to facilitate a wired segment of the communication pathway between the control inner core and the storage medium. The control inner core is configured to set an operational parameter of the surgical instrument system based on a communication signal through the communication pathway. 
     Example 8—The surgical instrument system of Example 7, wherein the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection comprises a flex circuit. 
     Example 9—The surgical instrument system of Examples 7 or 8, wherein the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection is a first exteriorly-mounted wiring connection, wherein the wired transmission of the at least one of data signal and power is a first wired transmission of the at least one of data signal and power, and wherein the electrical interface assembly comprises a second exteriorly-mounted wiring connection separately-attachable to the second interface portion to facilitate a second wired transmission of the at least one of data signal and power between the second interface portion and the shaft. 
     Example 10—The surgical instrument system of Examples 7, 8, or 9, wherein the end effector comprises a shaft portion releasably couplable to the shaft, and wherein the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection extends from the shaft portion. 
     Example 11—The surgical instrument system of Examples 7, 8, 9, or 10, wherein the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection is configured to extend outside the shaft from the shaft portion to the handle assembly. 
     Example 12—The surgical instrument system of Examples 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11, wherein the exteriorly-mounted wiring connection terminates in a connector releasably-couplable to the second interface portion. 
     Example 13—A surgical instrument system that comprises a shaft comprising a nozzle portion including a rotatable conductive ring. The surgical instrument system further comprises a handle assembly releasably couplable to the shaft. The handle assembly comprises a disposable outer housing defining a sterile barrier. The disposable outer housing comprises a first housing-portion and a second housing-portion movable relative to the first housing-portion between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The handle assembly further comprises a control inner core receivable inside the disposable outer housing in the open configuration. The disposable outer housing is configured to isolate the control inner core within the sterile barrier in the closed configuration. The surgical instrument system further comprises an end effector releasably couplable to the shaft and an electrical interface assembly configured to transmit at least one of data and power between the control inner core and the end effector. The electrical interface assembly comprises a first interface portion on a first side of the sterile barrier and a second interface portion on a second side of the sterile barrier opposite the first side. The first interface portion and the second interface portion are configured to cooperatively facilitate a wireless transmission of an electrical signal through the electrical interface assembly. The surgical instrument system further comprises a control circuit. The control circuit is configured to detect a compatible connection between the end effector and the control inner core through the electrical interface assembly and adjust a signal parameter of the electrical signal to improve a throughput of the at least one of data and power between the end effector and the control inner core. 
     Example 14—The surgical instrument system of Example 13, wherein detecting the compatible connection comprises an interrogation cycle. 
     Example 15—The surgical instrument system of Examples 13 or 14, wherein the end effector comprises an identification chip, and wherein detecting the compatible connection is based on an identifier stored in the identification chip. 
     Example 16. The surgical instrument system of Examples 13, 14, or 15, wherein adjusting the signal parameter comprises changing at least one of a frequency, an amplitude, and a bandwidth of the electrical signal. 
     Example 17—The surgical instrument system of Examples 13, 14, or 15, wherein adjusting the signal parameter comprises deactivating a connection of the electrical interface assembly. 
     Example 18—The surgical instrument system of Examples 13, 14, 15, 16, or 17, wherein the first interface portion comprises a first magnetic bearing, and wherein the second interface portion comprises a second magnetic bearing synchronously rotatable with the first magnetic bearing to transmit a mechanical energy across the sterile barrier. 
     Example 19—The surgical instrument system of Example 18, wherein the second interface portion comprises a linear alternator configured to convert the mechanical energy into an electrical energy. 
     Example 20—The surgical instrument system of Examples 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, or 19, wherein the second interface portion is frictionally attached to the rotatable conductive ring. 
     While several forms have been illustrated and described, it is not the intention of Applicant to restrict or limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Numerous modifications, variations, changes, substitutions, combinations, and equivalents to those forms may be implemented and will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, the structure of each element associated with the described forms can be alternatively described as a means for providing the function performed by the element. Also, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may be used. It is therefore to be understood that the foregoing description and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, combinations, and variations as falling within the scope of the disclosed forms. The appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, variations, changes, substitutions, modifications, and equivalents. 
     The foregoing detailed description has set forth various forms of the devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples. Insofar as such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will be understood by those within the art that each function and/or operation within such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will recognize that some aspects of the forms disclosed herein, in whole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and or firmware would be well within the skill of one of skill in the art in light of this disclosure. In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein are capable of being distributed as one or more program products in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative form of the subject matter described herein applies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium used to actually carry out the distribution. 
     Instructions used to program logic to perform various disclosed aspects can be stored within a memory in the system, such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), cache, flash memory, or other storage. Furthermore, the instructions can be distributed via a network or by way of other computer readable media. Thus a machine-readable medium may include any mechanism for storing or transmitting information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer), but is not limited to, floppy diskettes, optical disks, compact disc, read-only memory (CD-ROMs), and magneto-optical disks, read-only memory (ROMs), random access memory (RAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), magnetic or optical cards, flash memory, or a tangible, machine-readable storage used in the transmission of information over the Internet via electrical, optical, acoustical or other forms of propagated signals (e.g., carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.). Accordingly, the non-transitory computer-readable medium includes any type of tangible machine-readable medium suitable for storing or transmitting electronic instructions or information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer). 
     As used in any aspect herein, the term “control circuit” may refer to, for example, hardwired circuitry, programmable circuitry (e.g., a computer processor including one or more individual instruction processing cores, processing unit, processor, microcontroller, microcontroller unit, controller, digital signal processor (DSP), programmable logic device (PLD), programmable logic array (PLA), or field programmable gate array (FPGA)), state machine circuitry, firmware that stores instructions executed by programmable circuitry, and any combination thereof. The control circuit may, collectively or individually, be embodied as circuitry that forms part of a larger system, for example, an integrated circuit (IC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system on-chip (SoC), desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers, servers, smart phones, etc. Accordingly, as used herein “control circuit” includes, but is not limited to, electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electrical circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one application specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry forming a general purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a general purpose computer configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein), electrical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms of random access memory), and/or electrical circuitry forming a communications device (e.g., a modem, communications switch, or optical-electrical equipment). Those having skill in the art will recognize that the subject matter described herein may be implemented in an analog or digital fashion or some combination thereof. 
     As used in any aspect herein, the term “logic” may refer to an app, software, firmware and/or circuitry configured to perform any of the aforementioned operations. Software may be embodied as a software package, code, instructions, instruction sets and/or data recorded on non-transitory computer readable storage medium. Firmware may be embodied as code, instructions or instruction sets and/or data that are hard-coded (e.g., nonvolatile) in memory devices. 
     As used in any aspect herein, the terms “component,” “system,” “module” and the like can refer to a computer-related entity, either hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. 
     As used in any aspect herein, an “algorithm” refers to a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result, where a “step” refers to a manipulation of physical quantities and/or logic states which may, though need not necessarily, take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It is common usage to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or the like. These and similar terms may be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities and/or states. 
     A network may include a packet switched network. The communication devices may be capable of communicating with each other using a selected packet switched network communications protocol. One example communications protocol may include an Ethernet communications protocol which may be capable permitting communication using a Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). The Ethernet protocol may comply or be compatible with the Ethernet standard published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) titled “IEEE 802.3 Standard”, published in December, 2008 and/or later versions of this standard. Alternatively or additionally, the communication devices may be capable of communicating with each other using an X.25 communications protocol. The X.25 communications protocol may comply or be compatible with a standard promulgated by the International Telecommunication Union-Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T). Alternatively or additionally, the communication devices may be capable of communicating with each other using a frame relay communications protocol. The frame relay communications protocol may comply or be compatible with a standard promulgated by Consultative Committee for International Telegraph and Telephone (CCITT) and/or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Alternatively or additionally, the transceivers may be capable of communicating with each other using an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) communications protocol. The ATM communications protocol may comply or be compatible with an ATM standard published by the ATM Forum titled “ATM-MPLS Network Interworking 2.0” published August 2001, and/or later versions of this standard. Of course, different and/or after-developed connection-oriented network communication protocols are equally contemplated herein. 
     Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the foregoing disclosure, it is appreciated that, throughout the foregoing disclosure, discussions using terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,” “displaying,” or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system&#39;s registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices. 
     One or more components may be referred to herein as “configured to,” “configurable to,” “operable/operative to,” “adapted/adaptable,” “able to,” “conformable/conformed to,” etc. Those skilled in the art will recognize that “configured to” can generally encompass active-state components and/or inactive-state components and/or standby-state components, unless context requires otherwise. 
     The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument. The term “proximal” refers to the portion closest to the clinician and the term “distal” refers to the portion located away from the clinician. It will be further appreciated that, for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, and “down” may be used herein with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute. 
     Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to claims containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. 
     In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that typically a disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms unless context dictates otherwise. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be typically understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.” 
     With respect to the appended claims, those skilled in the art will appreciate that recited operations therein may generally be performed in any order. Also, although various operational flow diagrams are presented in a sequence(s), it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated, or may be performed concurrently. Examples of such alternate orderings may include overlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental, preparatory, supplemental, simultaneous, reverse, or other variant orderings, unless context dictates otherwise. Furthermore, terms like “responsive to,” “related to,” or other past-tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude such variants, unless context dictates otherwise. 
     It is worthy to note that any reference to “one aspect,” “an aspect,” “an exemplification,” “one exemplification,” and the like means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the aspect is included in at least one aspect. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one aspect,” “in an aspect,” “in an exemplification,” and “in one exemplification” in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same aspect. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more aspects. 
     In this specification, unless otherwise indicated, terms “about” or “approximately” as used in the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, means an acceptable error for a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which depends in part on how the value is measured or determined. In certain embodiments, the term “about” or “approximately” means within 1, 2, 3, or 4 standard deviations. In certain embodiments, the term “about” or “approximately” means within 50%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, or 0.05% of a given value or range. 
     In this specification, unless otherwise indicated, all numerical parameters are to be understood as being prefaced and modified in all instances by the term “about,” in which the numerical parameters possess the inherent variability characteristic of the underlying measurement techniques used to determine the numerical value of the parameter. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter described herein should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. 
     Any numerical range recited herein includes all sub-ranges subsumed within the recited range. For example, a range of “1 to 10” includes all sub-ranges between (and including) the recited minimum value of 1 and the recited maximum value of 10, that is, having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10. Also, all ranges recited herein are inclusive of the end points of the recited ranges. For example, a range of “1 to 10” includes the end points 1 and 10. Any maximum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all lower numerical limitations subsumed therein, and any minimum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limitations subsumed therein. Accordingly, Applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly recite any sub-range subsumed within the ranges expressly recited. All such ranges are inherently described in this specification. 
     Any patent application, patent, non-patent publication, or other disclosure material referred to in this specification and/or listed in any Application Data Sheet is incorporated by reference herein, to the extent that the incorporated materials is not inconsistent herewith. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material. 
     In summary, numerous benefits have been described which result from employing the concepts described herein. The foregoing description of the one or more forms has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting to the precise form disclosed. Modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The one or more forms were chosen and described in order to illustrate principles and practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the various forms and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the claims submitted herewith define the overall scope.