U.S. patent application number 12/153035 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-04 for slide compound saws.
Invention is credited to Hisashi Higuchi.
Application Number | 20080210074 12/153035 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32109131 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080210074 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Higuchi; Hisashi |
September 4, 2008 |
Slide compound saws
Abstract
Slide compound saws (1, 100, 150) may include a table (3b)
defining a table surface. A saw unit (20) may be pivotable relative
to the table surface. A first slide bar (31, 51, 251, 351) may be
slidably coupled to the table and may be disposed substantially in
parallel with the table surface. The first slide bar may define a
first sliding distance (S1) of the saw unit in a direction
substantially parallel to the table surface. A sliding device (24,
33, 52, 61, 62, 252, 352) may slidably couple the first slide bar
to the saw unit. The sliding device may define a second sliding
distance (S2) of the saw unit in the direction substantially
parallel to the table surface. Preferably, the saw unit can slide
up to a distance S1 plus S2 in the direction substantially parallel
to the table surface.
Inventors: |
Higuchi; Hisashi;
(Kariya-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DENNISON, SCHULTZ & MACDONALD
1727 KING STREET, SUITE 105
ALEXANDRIA
VA
22314
US
|
Family ID: |
32109131 |
Appl. No.: |
12/153035 |
Filed: |
May 13, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10163636 |
Jun 7, 2002 |
7387056 |
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12153035 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
83/471.3 ;
83/477.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 83/7726 20150401;
Y10T 83/7763 20150401; Y10T 83/8773 20150401; B23D 45/027 20130101;
Y10T 83/7788 20150401; B23D 45/048 20130101; Y10T 83/7755 20150401;
Y10T 83/7697 20150401 |
Class at
Publication: |
83/471.3 ;
83/477.1 |
International
Class: |
B27B 5/00 20060101
B27B005/00 |
Claims
1-21. (canceled)
22. A slide compound saw comprising: a table defining a table
surface, a saw unit rotatably supporting a circular saw blade,
first and second slide mechanisms each arranged and constructed to
enable the saw unit to slide in a direction substantially parallel
to the table surface, a first slide bar slidably supporting the saw
unit relative to the table, and an arm holder supporting the saw
unit and being slidably coupled to the first slide bar, wherein the
first slide mechanism slidably couples the table to the first slide
bar and defines a first slidable range of the first slide bar
relative to the table, and the second slide mechanism slidably
couples the first slide bar to the arm holder and defines a second
slidable range of the arm holder relative to the first slide
bar.
23. A slide compound saw as in claim 22, further including a hinge
enabling the saw unit to pivot relative to the arm holder and means
for laterally inclining the saw unit relative to the arm
holder.
24-31. (canceled)
32. The slide compound saw as in claim 22, wherein: the first slide
bar comprises two slide bars that are substantially in parallel to
each other; and the arm holder is mounted between the two slide
bars via the second slide mechanism.
33. The slide compound saw as in claim 22, wherein the second slide
mechanism comprises a linear ball bearing.
34. The slide compound saw as in claim 22, further comprising a
stopper mechanism disposed on the first slider bar and arranged and
constructed to limit a movable range of the arm holder relative to
the first slide bar.
35. An apparatus comprising: a base; a table defining a
substantially horizontal table surface and rotatably supported on
the base, so that the table can rotate within a substantially
horizontal plane; a slide bar slidably mounted to the table, so
that the slide bar can move substantially in a radial direction
with respect to a rotational axis of the table; an arm holder
slidably mounted to the slide bar, so that the arm holder can move
in an axial direction of the slide bar; an arm pivotally mounted to
the arm holder, so that the arm can pivot about an axis that
extends substantially parallel to the axial direction of the slide
bar; and a saw unit vertically pivotally mounted to the arm and
having a rotary saw blade supported thereon.
36. The apparatus as in claim 35, wherein: the slide bar includes a
first end positioned within the table and a second end radially
outward of the table; and the arm holder is slidably mounted to the
second end of the slide bar.
37. The apparatus as in claim 35, wherein: the slide bar comprises
first and second slide bars extending in substantially parallel to
each other; and the arm holder is mounted to the first and second
slide bars so as to extend therebetween.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention generally relates to slide compound
saws, which saws generally include a saw unit that can pivot
vertically relative to a table surface and that can slide linearly
relative to and along the table surface in order to cut a
workpiece.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] Japanese Laid-open Publication No. 11-90730 and U.S. Pat.
No. 5,054,352 teach slide compound saws, in which a saw unit having
a circular saw blade can slide relative to a table surface via two
slide bars. A workpiece (such as wood) is placed on the table
surface, the saw unit is vertically moved (or pivoted) toward the
workpiece, and then the saw unit is thereafter moved (or slid) in a
direction parallel to the table surface. As a result, a workpiece
having a relatively large width can be cut.
[0005] In addition, these known slide compound saws include a lock
for releasably preventing the saw unit from displacing or sliding
along the slide bars. In particular, the lock includes a fixing
screw that is designed to abut or press against one of the slide
bars. When the fixing screw securely abuts the slide bar, the saw
unit can not slide or move linearly with respect to the table
surface. However, the saw unit still can be vertically moved or
pivoted towards the table surface in order to cut the workpiece.
Thus, when the fixing screw securely abuts the slide bar, the slide
compound saw functions as a usual power circular saw. On the other
hand, when the fixing screw does not abut the slide bar, the saw
unit can slide parallel to the table surface in order to cut a
relatively wide workpiece.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] It is, accordingly, one object of the present invention to
teach improved slide compound saws. For example, in one aspect of
the present teachings, the saw unit of a slide compound saw may
have an increased moving or sliding distance without an
accompanying increase in the size of the table or the slide bar(s).
In another aspect of the present teachings, at least two discrete
slidable ranges may be provided.
[0007] According to another aspect of the present teachings, slide
compound saws are taught that may include a table defining a table
surface. A saw unit may be pivotally coupled to the table and may
pivot vertically, and/or at a bevel angle, relative to the table
surface. A first slide mechanism, which may preferably include a
first slide bar, preferably permits the saw unit to slide parallel,
or substantially parallel, to the table surface in order cut a
workpiece placed on the table. Sliding means may be provided in
order to extend the sliding distance or range of the saw unit
relative to the table without requiring an increase in the length
of the slide mechanism or the first slide bar. Thus, in this
aspect, the movable distance of the saw unit relative to the table
can be increased without increasing the size of the table or the
first slide mechanism (e.g., including one or more first slide
bars).
[0008] In another aspect of the present teachings, an arm or a
support member may be coupled to the first slide mechanism or first
slide bar and may serve to pivotally support the saw unit with
respect to the table surface and/or the first slide mechanism (or
first slide bar). The arm or support member may be slidably coupled
to the first slide mechanism (or first slide bar) or may be fixedly
coupled to the slide mechanism (or first slide bar). If the arm or
support member is fixedly coupled to the first slide mechanism (or
first slide bar), a second slide mechanism (e.g., including a
second slide bar) may be slidably coupled to the arm support. In
this aspect, the second slide mechanism is preferably disposed in
parallel with the first slide mechanism and the second slide
mechanism can move or slide relative to the first slide
mechanism.
[0009] In another aspect of the present teachings, the first slide
mechanism (or first slide bar) may slidably move relative to the
table. Further, the saw unit also may be slidable relative to the
first slide mechanism. Thus, two distinct or separate sliding
ranges may be provided by the first slide mechanism.
[0010] In another aspect of the present teachings, the first slide
mechanism may include an inner slide member (e.g., an inner slide
bar) that is slidably inserted into an outer slide member (e.g., an
outer slide bar). In this aspect, the first slide mechanism may
provide a relatively long sliding distance while occupying a
relatively small space (e.g., a relatively short linear
distance).
[0011] Additional objects, features and advantages of the present
invention will be readily understood after reading the following
detailed description together with the accompanying drawings and
the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a broken-away side view of a first representative
slide compound saw;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1, but instead, showing the
saw unit moved or shifted to its leftward position;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a plan view of FIG. 1, in which the saw unit and
its associated support arm have been omitted for the purpose of
illustration;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a vertical, cross-sectional view of a slide
mechanism for a second representative slide compound saw;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a broken-away side view of a third representative
slide compound saw;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a broken-away side view of a fourth representative
slide compound saw;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a broken away plan view of FIG. 6;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
configuration of the slide mechanism of FIG. 4; and
[0020] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a further alternative
configuration of the slide mechanism of FIG. 4.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0021] In one embodiment of the present teachings, slide compound
saws may include a table defining a table surface. A turntable
optionally may be rotatably disposed within the table. A saw unit
may be pivotable relative to the table surface. A first slide bar
may be slidably coupled to the table (or turntable) and may be
disposed substantially in parallel with the table surface. The
first slide bar preferably defines a first sliding distance or
range (S1 or A-a) of the saw unit relative to the table in a
direction substantially parallel to the table surface. Sliding
means may slidably couple the first slide bar to the saw unit. That
is, the sliding means preferably permits the saw unit to slide
relative to the first slide bar. In addition, the sliding means
preferably defines a second sliding distance (S2 or B-b) of the saw
unit relative to the first slide bar in the direction substantially
parallel to the table surface. In this embodiment, the saw unit is
capable of sliding up to a distance S1 plus S2 (i.e., within a
range of S1 plus S2) in the direction substantially parallel to the
table surface.
[0022] The sliding means may include an arm support that rotatably
or pivotally supports the saw unit relative to the table (or
turntable) and the first slide bar. The arm support may be fixedly
secured to the first slide bar or may be slidably coupled to the
first slide bar. Optionally, the first slide bar may be disposed
below the table surface, although the first slide bar also may be
disposed above the table surface.
[0023] In another embodiment, the sliding means may be slidably and
concentrically disposed within the first slide bar or may be
slidably and concentrically disposed around the first slide bar.
Preferably, the first slide bar can slide relative to the table (or
turntable). Optionally, the sliding means may include a second
slide bar slidably and concentrically disposed within or around the
first slide bar. In this case, the second slide bar can
telescopically slide relative to the first slide bar (or vice
versa) in order to permit the saw unit to slide relative to the
table by a first slidable distance (i.e., within a first slidable
range) of the first slide bar relative to the table (or turntable)
and by a second slidable distance (i.e., within a second slidable
range) of the second slide bar relative to the first slide bar.
[0024] In another embodiment, the sliding means may include an arm
support fixedly coupled to the first slide bar and to an upper arm
support. A second slide bar may be slidably disposed within the
upper arm support. The second slide bar preferably extends
substantially parallel to the first slide bar and the second slide
bar preferably supports the saw unit.
[0025] In other optional embodiments, means may be provided for
releasably locking the saw unit in a bevel cutting position
relative to the table surface. In addition or in the alternative, a
turntable may rotatably couple the first slide bar to the table,
thereby enabling miter cutting operations. In addition or in the
alternative, slide compound saws may include a pair of first slide
bars and/or a pair of second slide bars.
[0026] In another embodiment of the present teachings, slide
compound saws may include a table defining a table surface and a
saw unit having a saw blade. A first slide bar may be slidably
coupled to the table. A second slide bar may slidably couple the
first slide bar to the saw unit. The first slide bar is preferably
disposed substantially parallel to the second slide bar. In
addition, the saw unit preferably slides in a direction
substantially parallel to the table surface via the first and
second slide bars.
[0027] An arm support may be coupled (e.g., fixedly coupled or
movably coupled) to the second slide bar and may include means for
laterally pivoting the saw unit relative to the table surface,
thereby enabling bevel cutting operations. In addition or in the
alternative, the arm support may be fixedly coupled to the first
slide bar. In addition or in the alternative, the second slide bar
may be slidably disposed within or around the first slide bar, such
that the second slide bar telescopically extends from the first
slide bar or vice versa.
[0028] In another embodiment, the second slide bar may be slidably
disposed within the arm support. In addition or in the alternative,
at least two first slide bars may extend substantially in parallel
to each other. In addition or in the alternative, the arm support
may include means (e.g., a hinge) for pivoting the saw unit towards
the second slide bar (and the table surface). In addition or in the
alternative, means may be provided for laterally inclining the saw
unit relative to the second slide bar (and the table surface) in
order to enable bevel cutting operations.
[0029] In another embodiment, linear ball bearings may slidably
support the first slide bar(s) and/or the second slide bar(s). In
addition or in the alternative, a first set of stoppers may define
a first discrete slidable distance (or range) of the first slide
bar relative to the table and/or a second set of stoppers may
define a second discrete slidable distance (or range) of the second
slide bar relative to the arm support.
[0030] In another embodiment of the present teachings, slide
compound saws may include a table having a table surface and a saw
unit rotatably supporting a circular saw blade. First and second
slide mechanisms may be arranged and constructed to permit the saw
unit to move or slide in a direction substantially parallel to the
table surface. A first slide bar may be slidably supported by the
table (or a turntable rotatably disposed within the table). An arm
holder may support the saw unit and may be slidably coupled to the
first slide bar. The first slide mechanism may slidably couple the
table (or the turntable) to the first slide bar and the second
slide mechanism may slidably couple the first slide bar to the arm
holder. Optionally, means (e.g., a hinge) also may be provided for
pivoting the saw unit relative to the arm holder and/or for
laterally inclining the saw unit relative to the arm holder in
order to enable bevel cutting operations.
[0031] In another embodiment of the present teachings, slide
compound saws may include a table having a table surface and a saw
unit rotatably supporting a circular saw blade. First and second
slide mechanisms may be arranged and constructed to permit the saw
unit to move in a direction substantially parallel to the table
surface. A first slide bar may be slidably supported by the table
(or a turntable rotatably disposed within the table). An arm holder
may be supported on the first slide bar. A second slide bar may be
supported on the arm holder. The saw unit may be coupled to the
second slide bar. The first slide mechanism may slidably couple the
table (or a turntable) to the first slide bar and the second slide
mechanism may slidably couple the arm holder to the second slide
bar. Optionally, means (e.g., a hinge) may be provided for pivoting
the saw unit relative to the second slide bar and/or for laterally
inclining the saw unit relative to the first slide bar in order to
enable bevel cutting operations.
[0032] In another embodiment of the present teachings, methods for
sliding a saw unit relative to a table (or turntable) are taught.
For example, such methods may include sliding a first slide
mechanism relative to the table (or turntable) along or within a
first (discrete) slidable distance (or range) in a direction
substantially parallel to a surface of the table. Optionally, the
position of the first slide mechanism may then be fixed or locked
relative to the table. A second slide mechanism may then be slid
relative to the first slide mechanism along or within a second
(discrete) slidable distance (range) in substantially the same
direction as the first slide mechanism (e.g., substantially
parallel to the first slide mechanism). Further, the position of
the second slide mechanism optionally may then be fixed or locked
relative to the first slide mechanism.
[0033] In another representative method for sliding a saw unit
relative to a table (or turntable), a first slide bar may be slid
relative to the table (or turntable) along or within a first
(discrete) slidable distance (or range) in a direction
substantially parallel to a surface of the table. Then, the
position of the first slide bar optionally may be fixed or locked
relative to the table (or turntable). The saw unit may then be slid
relative to a second slide mechanism (e.g. a second slide bar)
along or within a second (discrete) slidable distance (or range) in
substantially the same direction as the first slide bar (e.g.,
substantially parallel to the first slide bar). Further, the
position of the saw unit optionally may be fixed or locked relative
to the second slide mechanism (or second slide bar).
[0034] Each of the additional features and teachings disclosed
above and below may be utilized separately or in conjunction with
other features and teachings to provide improved slide compound
saws and methods for designing and using such slide compound saws.
Representative examples of the present invention, which examples
utilize many of these additional features and teachings both
separately and in conjunction, will now be described in detail with
reference to the attached drawings. This detailed description is
merely intended to teach a person of skill in the art further
details for practicing preferred aspects of the present teachings
and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Only the
claims define the scope of the claimed invention. Therefore,
combinations of features and steps disclosed in the following
detail description may not be necessary to practice the invention
in the broadest sense, and are instead taught merely to
particularly describe representative examples of the invention.
Moreover, various features of the representative example and the
dependent claims may be combined in ways that are not specifically
enumerated in order to provide additional useful embodiments of the
present teachings.
[0035] A first representative embodiment of a slide compound saw 1
according to the present teachings will now be described with
reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, slide compound
saw 1 may generally include a base 2, a table 3b and a turntable 5
rotatably mounted on or within the base 2 and/or table 3b.
Preferably, an upper surface 5b of the turntable is flush (or
substantially flush) with the upper surface of the table 3b. A
circular saw unit 20 may be pivotally disposed above the turntable
5.
[0036] The circular saw unit 20 is preferably designed to cut a
workpiece W that is supported by the table 3b and/or the turntable
5. For example, the workpiece W may be placed on the upper surface
5b of the turntable 5 and one side of the workpiece W preferably
contacts a substantially vertically-oriented surface 3a of a fence
3. That is, the fence 3 preferably extends substantially
perpendicularly from the table surface and the turntable surface
5b. Then, a workpiece holder or vice (not shown) optionally may
fixedly hold or retain the workpiece W against the upper surface of
the table 3b, so that the workpiece W can be fixed in position
relative to the table 3b. With the workpiece W thus fixed in
position, the workpiece W can be cut by a circular saw 21 that is
rotatably mounted within the saw unit 20 and is rotatably driven by
a motor (not shown). In FIGS. 1 and 2, the saw unit 20 is shown in
the lowermost pivot (i.e., cutting) position.
[0037] A blade receiving slot 5a is preferably defined within the
turntable 5 for receiving a lower portion of the saw blade 21
during the cutting operation of the workpiece W. As shown in FIG.
3, the blade receiving slot 5a may be at least partially defined
within a turntable extension 6 that radially extends outward from
the outer periphery of the turntable 5. As also shown in FIG. 3,
the fence 3 may be separated into two discrete portions and the two
fence portions are preferably disposed on respective sides of the
blade receiving slot 5a.
[0038] In one application of saw 1, the blade surface of saw blade
21 may be positioned so as to extend substantially perpendicular to
the vertically-oriented surface 3a of the fence 3. Therefore, the
workpiece W can be cut in a direction perpendicular to the
longitudinal direction of the workpiece W. In an optional
embodiment, the turntable 5 and the saw unit 20 are preferably
designed to rotate together relative to the fence 3. Therefore, an
oblique or miter cutting operation can be performed so as to cut
the workpiece W obliquely relative to the longitudinal direction of
the workpiece W.
[0039] In order to enable the oblique or miter cutting operation,
the rotational center of the turntable S may be positioned just
below the central point of the vertically-oriented surface 3a.
Thus, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the turntable 5 can rotate about a
vertical support shaft 7 that may be positioned below the central
point. In this case, the cut angle of the workpiece W may be
changed in response to the rotational position of the turntable 5
and the saw unit 20 relative to the vertically-oriented surface 3a
of the fence 3.
[0040] A turntable lock 10 may serve to releasably fix the
turntable S in position relative to the base 2 and the table 3b.
The turntable lock 10 may include a first lock pin 11 and a second
lock pin 12. The first lock pin 11 may serve as a positive lock pin
for setting the rotational position of the turntable 5 relative to
the base 2. Preferably, a plurality of predetermined rotational
positions may be spaced at predetermined angular intervals. For
example, as shown in FIG. 3, the base 2 may include a side wall 4
that has a substantially semicircular configuration with respect to
the support shaft 7. A plurality of notches 4a may be defined
within the side wall 4 at predetermined intervals in the
circumferential or peripheral direction. The predetermined
intervals may be, e.g., regularly spaced intervals or may be
intervals that correspond to the most common angular (miter) cuts
performed by the saw 1. When the operator has selected the desired
rotational (miter) position, the second lock pin 12 may serve to
releasably fix the turntable 5 in the selected (miter)
position.
[0041] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a spring 14 may bias the first
lock pin 11 toward the side wall 4. In this case, the biasing force
of the spring 14 will cause the first lock pin 11 to engage the
respective notches 4a. An operation lever 13 may include a tab or
flange 13a that is operably coupled to the first lock pin 11. Thus,
when the operator downwardly presses the tab 13a, the first lock
pin 11 is withdrawn or removed from the notches 4a against the
biasing force of the spring 14.
[0042] The second lock pin 12 may threadably engage the turntable
5. In this case, by rotating the second lock pin 12 in a first
direction, the second lock pin 12 will press against the side wall
4 via a pressing plate 15. Therefore, the rotational position of
the turntable 5 can be locked with respect to the base 2 and table
3b. The locked state of the turntable 5 can be released by rotating
the second lock pin 12 in the opposite (second) direction.
[0043] A representative structure for mounting or supporting the
saw unit 20 on the turntable 5 will now be described. Referring to
FIG. 3, a pair of parallel slide bars (e.g., first slide bars) 31
may be slidably coupled to the turntable 5 and may extend
substantially in the horizontal direction. That is, the slide bars
31 preferably extend in a direction that is substantially
perpendicular to the vertically-oriented surface 3a. As shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2, the left-side portions of the slide bars 31 may be
slidably coupled to an arm holder 24. Further, an arm 22 may be
supported on the arm holder 24 and the saw unit 20 may be supported
by the arm 22. Although two slide bars 31 are utilized in the first
representative embodiment, only one slide bar 31 is necessary to
provide the function of enabling the saw unit 20 to slide relative
to the base 2 and the table 3b.
[0044] The arm 22 may extend or project over the slide bars 31
toward a position above the turntable 5. A support rod 23 may be
disposed within a front end portion of the arm 22 and the saw unit
20 may pivot about the support rod 23. Thus, the support rod 23 may
serve as a hinge and the saw unit 20 can pivot or rotate about the
hinge. A return spring (not shown in the first representative
embodiment) normally biases the saw unit 20 toward in an uppermost
or resting position (an upper stroke end). Therefore, in order to
cut a workpiece W, the operator will typically move or pivot the
saw unit 20 downward from the uppermost position against the
biasing force of the return spring.
[0045] In order to enable a bevel cutting operation of the
workpiece W (i.e., the saw blade 21 is laterally inclined from a
vertically-oriented position relative to the upper surface 5b of
the turntable 5), a horizontally-disposed rod 25 may be utilized to
permit the arm 22 to pivot laterally relative to the arm holder 24.
Further, an arc-shaped guide surface 24a may be defined on the arm
holder 24 about the pivotal axis of the arm 22 Therefore, pivotal
movement of the arm 22 relative to the arm holder 24 can be
prevented when the arm 22 is slidably supported by the arc-shaped
guide surface 24a. Optionally, the axis of the
horizontally-disposed rod 25 may be positioned, e.g., above the
upper surface 5b of the turntable 5 and may be substantially
aligned, e.g., with the blade slot 5a.
[0046] The horizontally-disposed rod 25 may threadably engage a
threaded hole 25a defined within the lower end portion of the arm
22. An operation lever 26 may be attached to one end of the
horizontally-disposed rod 25. Therefore, by rotating the operation
lever 26 and thus the horizontally-disposed rod 25 in one
direction, the arm 22 can be fixed or locked in position relative
to the arm holder 24. When the horizontally-disposed rod 25 is
rotated in the opposite direction, the arm 22 will be released and
will be free to pivot relative to the arm holder 24.
[0047] A first slide mechanism 30 may enable the saw unit 20 to
linearly move or slide in a direction parallel, or substantially
parallel, to the upper surface 5b of the turntable 5 within a first
slidable distance (S1). The pair of parallel slide bars 31 may be
included within the slide mechanism 30. A pair of first bearing
members 32 may slidably support the respective front portions of
the slide bars 31 with respect to the turntable 5. For example, the
first bearing members 32 may be disposed within the turntable 5
(i.e., below the upper surface 5b of the turntable 5). In this
case, the slide bars 31 will slide below the upper surface 5b of
the turntable 5. However, in the alternative, the slide bars 31 and
the first bearing members 32 also may be disposed above the
turntable surface 5b. In either case, the first bearing members 32
preferably include a pair of linear ball bearings for slidably
receiving the respective slide bars 31. Thus, the first bearing
members 32 may be linear slide bearings.
[0048] The arm holder 24 may extend between or across the rear end
portions of the slide bars 31. A pair of second bearing members 33
may be disposed within the arm holder 24. The second bearing
members 33 may include a pair of linear ball bearings that slidably
receive the rear end portions of the respective slide bars 31.
Thus, the second bearing members 32 also may be linear slide
bearings and preferably slidably support the arm holder 24 with
respect to the slide bars 31.
[0049] Optionally, each of the slide bars 31 may have a circular,
or substantially circular, cross section, although the slide bars
31 may have other configurations. A front tie bar 34 may join the
front end portions of the slide bars 31 and a rear tie bar 35 may
join the rear end portions of the slide bars 31. Front and rear
stoppers 36 and 37 may be defined within the turntable 5 so as
contact the front tie bar 34 and define a first (discrete) movable
(slidable) range (SI) of the slide bars 31. That is, the distance
between the front and rear stoppers 36 and 37 of the first slide
mechanism 30 may define the movable or slidable distance (S1) in
this embodiment. However, if the first bearing member 32 is
optionally disposed between the first and second stoppers 36 and 37
(not shown), then the slidable distance (S1) will be defined by the
distance between the first and second stoppers 36 and 37 minus the
length of the first bearing member 32.
[0050] The rear stopper 37 may be defined on a boss portion of the
turntable 5 that receives the vertically disposed shaft 7. On the
other hand, the rear tie bar 35 and stopper rings 38 may be
attached to the slide bars 31 at a substantially middle position
along the axial direction of the slide bars 31. A second (discrete)
movable (slidable) range (S2) of the arm holder 24 relative to the
slide bars 31 may be defined by the distance (B) between the rear
tie bar 35 and the stopper rings 38 minus the length (b) of the
second bearing members 33, because the second bearing members 33
are disposed within the maximum slidable distance (B) of the arm
holder 24 relative to the slide bars 32. The second bearing members
33 optionally may be disposed within an outer casing 33a that has a
front end (right end as viewed in FIG. 2) that opposes or faces the
stopper ring 38 and a rear end (left end as viewed in FIG. 2) that
opposes or faces the rear tie bar 35.
[0051] Thus, according to the first representative embodiment, the
saw unit 20 can move in the horizontal (parallel) direction
relative to the turntable 5 along two distinct (i.e., physically
separated) sliding ranges. That is, the slide bars 31 may move or
slide relative to the turntable 5 within the first slidable range
(S1) and the arm holder 24 can further move or slide relative to
the slide bars 31 within the second slidable range (S2). Thus, the
slide bar 31 can move or slide up to a distance SI relative to the
turntable 5, and the arm holder 24 can move or slide up to a
distance S2 relative to the slide bars 31, as shown in FIGS. 1 and
2.
[0052] As a result, the combined sliding distance can be increased
(e.g., up to S1 plus S2) while still maintaining a compact
configuration for the saw 1. That is, it is not necessary to
increase the length of slide bars 31 in order to provide a longer
sliding range. Further, the sliding movement may be performed in
two discrete steps (i.e., first sliding by or up to the distance
S1, stopping the sliding movement and then sliding by or up to the
distance S2) or the sliding movement along or within the distance
S1 plus S2 may be performed in one continuous motion.
[0053] Optionally, a first lock mechanism 41A may serve to fix the
position of the slide bars 31 relative to the turntable 5. In
addition, a second lock mechanism 41B may serve to fix the arm
holder 24 in position relative to the slide bars 31. Thus, the
position of the saw unit 20 relative to the turntable 5 in the
longitudinal direction of the slide bars 31 may be fixed by the
first and second lock mechanisms 41A and 41B. Because the first and
second lock mechanisms 41A and 41B may be constructed in
substantially the same manner, it is only necessary to describe the
first lock mechanism 41A in further detail.
[0054] The first lock mechanism 41A may include an auxiliary ring
43 that is slidably fitted onto one of the slide bars 31. A stopper
screw 42 may be inserted into the turntable 5 from the lower side.
In addition, the stopper screw 42 may be screwed or threaded into
the auxiliary ring 43 in the diametrical or radial direction so as
to fix the auxiliary ring 43 in position relative to the turntable
5. A lock screw 44 may be inserted into the turntable 5 from the
upper side and may be screwed into the auxiliary ring 43 in a
position opposite to the stopper screw 42. Thus, when the lock
screw 44 is tightened, the end or tip portion of the lock screw 44
can abut or contact the outer surface of the slide bar 31, so that
the slide bars 31 can be releasably fixed or locked in position
relative to the turntable 5.
[0055] As noted above, the second lock mechanism 41B may have
substantially the same construction as the first lock mechanism
41A. Therefore, the arm holder 24 can be fixed in position relative
to the slide bars 31 by tightening a lock screw 44 of the second
lock mechanism 41B.
[0056] As described above, according to the first representative
embodiment, the saw unit 20 may linearly move or slide relative to
the turntable 5 along (1) a distance S1 by sliding the slide bars
31 relative to the turntable 5 and (2) a further distance S2 by
sliding the arm holder 24 relative to the slide bars 31. Therefore,
in order to cut a workpiece W set onto the turntable 5, the
operator may first pivot the saw unit 20 downward about the support
shaft 23 to cut the front portion of the workpiece W. In this step,
the saw unit 20 is preferably positioned at the forward most
position (rightmost position as viewed in FIG. 1). The operator may
then push the saw unit 20 rearward (leftward as viewed in FIG. 1),
so that the workpiece W can be cut along the entire length of the
workpiece W in the forward and rearward directions.
[0057] As noted above, the saw unit 20 can move or slide by (or up
to) the combined distance (S1+S2), in which the distance SI is the
movable or slidable distance of slide bars 31 relative to turntable
5 and the distance S2 is the movable or slidable distance of arm
holder 24 relative to the slide bars 31. Thus, two discrete
slidable ranges are provided in the first representative
embodiment.
[0058] Consequently, the movable range of the saw unit 20 may be
increased as compared to known compound saws that do not provide
the movable or slidable distance S2. Thus, if the movable distance
S1 is set to be the same distance as known compound saws, the saw
unit 20 may further move or slide by the distance S2 (i.e., the
movable distance of the arm holder 24 relative to the slide bars
31), as compared to known compound saws. Naturally, the length of
blade slot 5a is preferably defined to be at least about the
combined slidable distance S1 plus S2. Consequently, the movable or
ridable distance of the saw unit 20 may be increased without
increasing the size of the turntable 5, although it may be
appropriate to extend the length of the turntable extension 6 in
order to provide sufficient length for blade slot 5a. In the
alternative, the size or length of the compound saw 1 (e.g., slide
bars 31) may be reduced while still providing the same movable or
slidable range of the saw unit 20 as known compound saws.
[0059] A second representative slide mechanism 130 will now be
described with reference to FIG. 4, in which the same reference
numerals are utilized for the same elements as FIGS. 1-3. Because
the slide mechanism 130 may be utilized with the saw 1 of FIGS.
1-3, a complete description of a saw including slide mechanism 130
is not necessary.
[0060] The second representative slide mechanism 130 may include a
pair of first slide bars 51, which are preferably disposed in
parallel. The first slide bars 51 preferably may be substantially
hollow and cylindrical in cross section, although other
configurations are, of course, possible with the present teachings.
The front ends (right ends as viewed in FIG. 4) of the first slide
bars 51 may be slidably mounted within the turntable 5 and may be
slidably supported by first bearing members 32, which may include
linear ball bearings as in the first representative embodiment.
[0061] A pair of second slide bars 52 preferably may have either a
hollow or a solid cylindrical configuration, although other
configurations are, of course, possible with the present teachings.
The front ends (right ends as viewed in FIG. 4) of the second slide
bars 52 may be slidably inserted into or received within the
respective first slide bars 51 via second bearing members 33, which
also may include linear ball bearings as in the first
representative embodiment. Thus, the first slide bars 51 may be
concentrically disposed with respect to the second slide bars 52.
The arm holder 24 may be fixedly or rotatably secured to the rear
ends of the second slide bars 52. Optionally, the arm holder 24 may
be slidably supported by the second slide bars 52 in a manner
similar to the arm holder 24 of the first representative embodiment
in order to provide an additional sliding range (S3) of arm holder
24 (and thus saw unit 20) relative to the second slide bars 52.
[0062] Front and rear stoppers 51a and 51b may be attached to the
outer periphery of each of the first slide bars 51. Further, the
front and rear stoppers 51a and 51b may respectively oppose the
front and rear ends of the outer casing 32a of the first bearing
member 32 along the longitudinal direction of the first slide bars
51. The front and rear stoppers 51a and 51b define the maximum
slidable distance (A) along the first slide bar 51. The length (a)
of the first bearing member 32 must be subtracted from (A) in order
to obtain the first movable or slidable range (S1) for the second
representative embodiment. In other words, the first movable or
slidable range (S1) of the first slide bars 51 relative to the
turntable 5 may be defined as (A)-(a), i.e., the distance (A)
between the front and rear stoppers 51a and 51b minus the length
(a) of the first bearing member 32.
[0063] Similarly, front and rear stoppers 52a and 52b may be
attached to or defined along the outer periphery of each of the
second slide bars 52. Further, the front and rear stoppers 52a and
52b may respectively oppose the front and rear ends of the outer
casing 33a of the second bearing member 33 along the longitudinal
direction of the second slide bars 52. The front and rear stoppers
52a and 52b define the maximum slidable distance (B) along the
second slide bar 52. The length (b) of the first bearing member 33
must be subtracted from the distance (B) in order to obtain the
second movable or slidable range (S2) for the second representative
embodiment. In other words, the second movable or slidable range
(S2) of the second slide bar 52 relative to the turntable 5 may be
defined as (B)-(b), i.e., the distance (B) between the front and
rear stoppers 52a and 52b minus the length (b) of the second
bearing member 33.
[0064] Similar to the first representative embodiment, the saw unit
20 of the second representative embodiment may be linearly moved or
slid up to or within a combined distance (range) of S1 plus S2,
because the first slide bars 51 can slide or move by a distance or
range S1 relative to the turntable 5 and the second slide bars 52
can slide or move by a distance or range S2 relative to the first
slide bars 51. Thus, in the second representative embodiment as
well, the saw unit 20 can move in the horizontal (parallel)
direction relative to the turntable 5 along two discrete slidable
or movable ranges. Optionally, if the arm holder 24 is movably
coupled to the second slide bars 52, as in the first representative
embodiment, a third slidable range (S3) will be provided.
[0065] As a result, the combined sliding distance can be increased
(e.g., at least up to S1 plus S2) while still maintaining a compact
configuration for the saw 1. That is, it is not necessary to
increase the length of slide bars 51 in order to provide a longer
sliding range. Further, as in the first representative embodiment,
the sliding movement may be performed in two discrete steps (i.e.,
first sliding by or up to the distance S1, stopping the sliding
movement and then sliding by or up to the distance S2) or the
sliding movement along or within the distance (range) S1 plus S2
(or S1 plus S2 plus optionally S3) may be performed in one
continuous motion.
[0066] In the second representative embodiment, if the second slide
bars 52 are inserted into the respective tubular-shaped, first
slide bars 51, the saw unit 20 can telescopically extend and
retract with respect to the turntable 5. Consequently, the slide
mechanism 130 may have a relatively compact construction and may
occupy a smaller space than the slide mechanism 30 of the first
representative embodiment.
[0067] A third representative embodiment will now be described with
reference to FIG. 5, in which the same reference numerals will be
utilized for the same elements as the first and second
representative embodiments. The slide compound saw 100 of the third
representative embodiment is different from the first
representative embodiment in that the arm holder 24 is fixedly
secured to the rear ends of the (first) slide bars 31. Further, a
slide support 61 and a pair of upper (second) slider bars 62
slidably support the saw unit 20 with respect to the arm holder 24.
In the same manner as the first representative embodiment, the
front ends of the (first) slide bars 31 may be slidably mounted
within the turntable 5, and the first lock mechanism 41A may serve
to releasably fix the position of the slide bars 31 relative to the
turntable 5.
[0068] Although not shown in FIG. 5, a second bearing member and a
second lock mechanism may be respectively utilized in a manner
similar to the second bearing member 33 and the second lock
mechanism 41B (including the auxiliary ring 43) of the first
representative embodiment. For example, a second bearing member may
be disposed within the slide support 61 in order to slidably
support the upper slide bars 62. In this case, the upper slide bars
62 can slide horizontally relative to the arm holder 24 and can be
releasably fixed or locked in position relative to the arm holder
24.
[0069] In addition, stoppers (not numbered) may be attached to or
defined on the upper slide bars 62 in order to define the maximum
movable or slidable distance (B) of the upper slide bars 62. In
order to determine the movable or slidable range (S2) of the upper
slide bars 62 relative to the arm holder 24, the length (b) of the
arm holder 24 must be subtracted from the distance (B). Thus, the
movable or slidable range (S2) of the upper slide bars 62 relative
to the arm holder 24 may be defined as (B)-(b), i.e., the distance
(B) between the stoppers disposed on the upper slide bars 62 minus
the length (b) of the arm holder 24. The movable or slidable range
(S1) of the first slide bars 31 relative to the turntable 5 can be
defined simply as the distance between the stoppers 36 and 37
disposed on the first slide bars 31, because the first bearing
member 32 is not disposed between the stoppers in this
embodiment.
[0070] Optionally, the respective rear portions of the upper slide
bars 62 optionally may be covered by a bellows-like dust cover 64
that can expand and contract. For example, the front end of the
dust cover 64 may be attached to the rear end of the slide support
61 and the rear end of the dust cover 64 may be attached to the
rear end of the corresponding upper slide bars 62.
[0071] A bracket 63 may be attached to the front ends of the upper
slide bars 62. Further, the support rod 23 and the bracket 63 may
pivotally support the saw unit 20. That is, the saw unit 20 may
pivot or rotate towards the workpiece W via the bracket 63 and the
support rod 23 (collectively, a hinge). Further, a return (coil)
spring 65 may upwardly bias the saw unit 20 toward the uppermost or
resting position. A dust duct 66 may be provided to direct dust
away from the upper surface 5b and into, e.g., a dust collection
receptacle (not shown).
[0072] As described above, according to the third representative
embodiment, the saw unit 20 can move or slide by a distance S1 plus
S2. That is, the (first) slide bars 31 can move or slide relative
to the turntable 5 by the distance S1 and the upper (second) slide
bars 62 can move or slide relative to the arm holder 24 by the
distance S2. Thus, in the third representative embodiment, the saw
unit 20 can move or slide relative to the turntable 5 by the sum
(S1+S2) of the movable distance S1 of the slider bars 31 relative
to the turntable 5 and the movable distance S2 of the upper slide
bars 62 relative to the arm holder 24. Therefore, also in the third
representative embodiment, the saw unit 20 can slide along a
relatively large distance without increasing the size of the
turntable 5. Optionally, the arm holder 24 may be movably coupled
to the slide bars 31, as in the first representative embodiment, in
order to define a third slidable range (S3) of the arm holder 24
relative to the slide bars 31.
[0073] FIGS. 6 and 7 show a slide compound saw 150 according to
fourth representative embodiment, which is a modification of the
third representative embodiment. Like elements will therefore be
given the same reference numerals as the third representative
embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the fourth representative
embodiment includes a second lock mechanism 141B. However, the
second lock mechanism 141B does not incorporate the auxiliary ring
43 as in the second lock mechanism 41b of the first and second
representative embodiments. Instead, the second lock mechanism 141B
may include a lock screw 144 that directly engages or abuts the
corresponding upper slide bar 62 without an intervening auxiliary
ring. The upper slide bar(s) 62 preferably is (are) slidably
disposed within second bearing mechanism 33.
[0074] This modification is advantageous because the second lock
mechanism 141B can be manufactured at a lower cost than the lock
mechanisms 41A or 41B. For example, slide compound saws according
to the present teachings may optionally utilize the second lock
mechanism 141B to prevent the holder arm 24 from moving or sliding
in the axial (longitudinal) direction relative to the upper slide
support 61. On the other hand, the first lock mechanism 41A must
bear the torsional force that is applied to the slide bars 31 when
a bevel cutting operation is performed with the saw unit 20
disposed in a position inclined from the vertical orientation.
Therefore, the first lock mechanism 41A is preferably sufficiently
resilient to withstand this force.
[0075] Optionally, the arm holder 24 of the fourth representative
embodiment also may be movably coupled to the slide bars 31, as in
the first representative embodiment, in order to define a third
slidable range (S3) of the arm holder 24 relative to the slide bars
31.
[0076] Although the above representative embodiments have been
described in connection with circular slide compound saws that
provide both oblique (miter) and bevel cutting functions, the
present teachings also may be applied to other types of slide saws
that do not provide these functions. For example, the present
teachings may be applied to slide saws that include only a miter
cutting function or only a bevel cutting function. Naturally,
neither the miter function nor the bevel function is required
according to the present teachings.
[0077] In addition, the number and the cross-sectional
configuration of the first and second slide bars 31, 51, 52 or 62
may be selectively and suitably determined. For example, the
present teachings are not limited to cylindrical-shaped slide bars,
as polygonal-shaped bars (e.g., rectangular-shaped bars) also may
be utilized. In addition, as noted in the second, third and fourth
representative embodiments, the saw unit 20 may move or slide along
three or more discrete slidable ranges. That is, three or more sets
of sliding distances (e.g., S1, S2 and S3) optionally made be
utilized with the present teachings.
[0078] Further, as noted in the second representative embodiment,
the first slide bars 51 may have a hollow and cylindrical
configuration and the second slide bars 52 may have a hollow or
solid cylindrical configuration. However, variety of configurations
for the first and second slide bars 51 and 52 may be utilized. For
example, as shown in FIG. 8, a slide bar 251 (i.e., corresponding
to the first slide bar 51) may have a substantially inverted
U-shaped configuration in cross section. In addition, a slide bar
252 (i.e., corresponding to the second slide bar 52) may have a
substantially rectangular configuration in cross section.
Preferably, the configuration of slide bar 252 corresponds, or
substantially corresponds, to the inner peripheral configuration of
the slide bar 251. Thus, in this case as well, the slide bar 252
can telescopically project from the slide bar 251.
[0079] In another representative modification of the present
teachings, a pair of recesses 251c may be defined within the
lateral inner surfaces of the slide bar 251. The recesses 251c may
oppose or face each other. A projection 252c may be extend from
each lateral surface of the slide bar 252 in order to slidably
engage the corresponding recesses 251c of the slide bar 251.
Therefore, the slide bar 251 can slide relative to the slide bar
252 along the longitudinal direction guided by the projections 252c
and recesses 251c.
[0080] In the alternative, as shown in FIG. 9, a pair of slide bars
351 (i.e., corresponding to the first slide bar 51) may have a
substantially C-shaped configuration in cross section. Further, a
slide bar 352 (i.e., corresponding to the second slide bar 52) may
have a substantially rectangular configuration and may be slidably
received between the slide bars 351. Therefore, the slide bar 351
can slide relative to the slide bar 352 along the longitudinal
direction
[0081] Furthermore, it is noted that the arm holder 24 of the third
representative embodiment can slide relative to the turntable 5 via
the slide bars 31 and the saw unit 20 can slide relative to the arm
holder 24 via the upper slide bars 62. As discussed above, this
two-step movable construction between the arm holder 24 and the
turntable 5 as in the first or second representative embodiments
also may be incorporated into the third or fourth representative
embodiments in order to provide three or more discrete moveable or
slidable distances (ranges).
[0082] In a further embodiment of the present teachings, the first
slide bar 31 may be fixedly coupled to the table 3b or the
turntable 5. An arm 24 may be movably coupled to the first slide
bar 31, as in the first representative embodiment, thereby defining
a first slidable distance or range (S1) between the arm 24 and the
first slide bar 31. A slide support 61 may be coupled to the arm
24, as in the third and representative fourth embodiments, and may
slidably support at least one upper (second) slide bar 62. The saw
unit may be coupled to the upper (second) slide bar 62. In this
case, the upper slide bar 62 may be slidable with respect to the
slide support 61, thereby defining a second slidable distance or
range (S2) between the arm 24 (or the slide support 61) and the saw
unit 20.
* * * * *