Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to a method of driving an end effector coupled to an ultrasonic drive system of a surgical instrument. The method comprises generating at least one electrical signal. The at least one electrical signal is monitored against a first set of logic conditions. A first response is triggered when the first set of logic conditions is met. A parameter is determined from the at least one electrical signal.

Abstract: A method for determining motional branch current in an ultrasonic transducer of an ultrasonic surgical device over multiple frequencies of a transducer drive signal. The method may comprise, at each of a plurality of frequencies of the transducer drive signal, oversampling a current and voltage of the transducer drive signal, receiving, by a processor, the current and voltage samples, and determining, by the processor, the motional branch current based on the current and voltage samples, a static capacitance of the ultrasonic transducer and the frequency of the transducer drive signal.

Abstract: A moisture sensing device having an elongated chute with an open top and a gate at the bottom. The gate is connected to an actuator for opening and closing the gate. A proximity sensor is mounted to the chute adjacent the gate to detect whether the gate is open or closed. Connected to and extending into the chute is a moisture sensor. The moisture sensor, proximity sensor, and actuator are all connected to a controller.

Abstract: A moisture sensing device having an elongated chute with an open top and a gate at the bottom. The gate is connected to an actuator for opening and closing the gate. A proximity sensor is mounted to the chute adjacent the gate to detect whether the gate is open or closed. Connected to and extending into the chute is a moisture sensor. The moisture sensor, proximity sensor, and actuator are all connected to a controller.

Abstract: A sweep control system having a sweep auger rotationally mounted about a central axis of a center sump and operatively connected to pusher motor(s). A sensor measures the load on the sweep auger and sends a signal to the controller. The controller compares the detected load to a predetermined load and sends a signal to a variable speed drive based on the comparison. The variable speed drive is connected to the pusher motor(s) and adjusts the speed of the pusher motor(s) based upon the received signal.