U.S. patent application number 13/554795 was filed with the patent office on 2013-02-14 for gauge system.
This patent application is currently assigned to PRECISION AUTOMATION, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is Stuart R. Aldrich, Jody S. Carpenter, Spencer B. Dick, John S. Gorny, Robert P. Hodges, David A. Morgan, Simon A. Soot. Invention is credited to Stuart R. Aldrich, Jody S. Carpenter, Spencer B. Dick, John S. Gorny, Robert P. Hodges, David A. Morgan, Simon A. Soot.
Application Number | 20130036890 13/554795 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41380762 |
Filed Date | 2013-02-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130036890 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dick; Spencer B. ; et
al. |
February 14, 2013 |
GAUGE SYSTEM
Abstract
Gauge system, including methods and apparatus, for positioning
workpieces to be processed. In some embodiments, the gauge system
may have a plurality of stops for positioning the end of a
workpiece at distinct distances from a processing station. In some
embodiments, the plurality of stops may be arrayed along a rail
assembly having an adjustable length.
Inventors: |
Dick; Spencer B.; (Portland,
OR) ; Aldrich; Stuart R.; (Portland, OR) ;
Morgan; David A.; (Portland, OR) ; Hodges; Robert
P.; (Scappoose, OR) ; Soot; Simon A.;
(Washougal, WA) ; Carpenter; Jody S.; (Portland,
OR) ; Gorny; John S.; (Portland, OR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Dick; Spencer B.
Aldrich; Stuart R.
Morgan; David A.
Hodges; Robert P.
Soot; Simon A.
Carpenter; Jody S.
Gorny; John S. |
Portland
Portland
Portland
Scappoose
Washougal
Portland
Portland |
OR
OR
OR
OR
WA
OR
OR |
US
US
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
PRECISION AUTOMATION, INC.
Vancouver
WA
|
Family ID: |
41380762 |
Appl. No.: |
13/554795 |
Filed: |
July 20, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12888827 |
Sep 23, 2010 |
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13554795 |
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|
12360091 |
Jan 26, 2009 |
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12888827 |
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|
11711497 |
Feb 26, 2007 |
7483765 |
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12360091 |
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60776283 |
Feb 24, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
83/468.7 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 83/7647 20150401;
Y10T 83/741 20150401; B27B 27/02 20130101; B27B 27/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
83/468.7 |
International
Class: |
B26D 7/01 20060101
B26D007/01 |
Claims
1. A system for cutting lengths of product from stock, comprising:
a housing defining a cavity; a drive assembly including a motor
connected to a linkage assembly, the linkage assembly being
disposed in the cavity of the housing; a stop assembly connected to
the linkage assembly and slidably supported by a track formed
outside the cavity, the stop assembly including at least one stop
driven along the track by operation of the drive assembly and
configured to be engaged with an end of a workpiece to adjustably
position the end along a positioning axis that is parallel to the
track; a saw configured to cut pieces of stock at a cutting site
that crosses the positioning axis; and a controller that operates
the drive assembly for movement of the stop according to inputs
that correspond to desired lengths of products to be cut from
pieces of stock at the cutting site.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the housing is rectangular in
cross section.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the saw is a miter saw configured
to make miter cuts.
4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a support member
connected to and supporting the housing, the linkage assembly, and
the saw.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the support member is a
table.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the track is formed by a guide
member that is not part of the housing.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the linkage assembly includes a
belt.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the linkage assembly includes a
pulley.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the stop assembly includes a
plurality of stops arranged along the positioning axis from each
other.
10. A system for cutting lengths of product from stock, comprising:
a drive assembly including a motor connected to a linkage assembly,
the linkage assembly being disposed in a cavity; a guide member
forming a track outside the cavity; a stop assembly connected to
the linkage assembly and slidably supported by the track, the stop
assembly including at least one stop driven along the track by
operation of the drive assembly and configured to be engaged with
an end of a workpiece to adjustably position the end along a
positioning axis that is parallel to the track; a miter saw
configured to make miter cuts in pieces of stock at a cutting site
that crosses the positioning axis; and a controller that operates
the drive assembly for movement of the stop according to inputs
that correspond to desired lengths of products to be cut from
pieces of stock at the cutting site.
11. The system of claim 10, wherein the linkage assembly is
disposed in a housing having a rectangular cross section.
12. The system of claim 10, further comprising a support member
connected to and supporting the assembly, the guide member, and the
miter saw.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the support member is a
table.
14. The system of claim 10, further comprising a housing that
defines the cavity, wherein the guide member is separate from the
housing.
15. The system of claim 10, wherein the linkage assembly includes a
belt.
16. The system of claim 10, wherein the linkage assembly includes a
pulley.
17. The system of claim 10, wherein the stop assembly includes a
plurality of stops arranged along the positioning axis from each
other.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO PRIORITY APPLICATION
[0001] This is a divisional application of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 12/888,827 filed Sep. 24, 2010 which is a continuation of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/360,091 filed Jan. 26, 2009
which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 11/711,497 filed
Feb. 26, 2007, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,483,765, which claims
priority to application Ser. No. 60/776,283 filed Feb. 24, 2006 and
which are all incorporated herein by reference in their entirety
for all purposes.
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED MATERIALS
[0002] This application incorporates by reference the following
U.S. patents: U.S. Pat. No. 4,596,172; U.S. Pat. No. 4,901,992;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,042,341; U.S. Pat. No. 5,444,635; U.S. Pat. No.
5,960,104; U.S. Pat. No. 6,216,574; U.S. Pat. No. 6,631,006; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,886,462; U.S. Pat. No. 6,898,478; U.S. Pat. No.
6,941,864; U.S. Pat. No. 7,080,431; U.S. Pat. No. 7,168,353; and
U.S. Pat. No. 7,171,738.
[0003] This application also incorporates by reference the
following U.S. provisional patent application: Ser. No.
60/839,661.
[0004] This application also incorporates by reference the
following U.S. patent applications: Ser. No. 10/645,827; Ser. No.
10/897,997; Ser. No. 10/958,690; Ser. No. 11/140,541; and Ser. No.
11/492,703.
BACKGROUND
[0005] Automated gauge systems may facilitate positioning
workpieces, such as stock lumber, relative to a saw. An operator
inputs a desired length of a product, and the system automatically
positions a stop (e.g., a fence) such that the stop is spaced from
the saw by the desired length. Accordingly, a workpiece abutted at
its end against the stop and properly aligned with a rail can be
positioned quickly and accurately for sawing to create the
product.
[0006] In order to position the stop for both long and short
products, the system may have a relatively long drive mechanism
that drives movement of the stop. For example, a gauge system that
can cut lumber to generate products of up to ten feet in length may
have a drive mechanism and a rail that are both about ten feet
long. The drive mechanism and rail thus may restrict the
portability, storability, and/or maximum product length of the
gauge system.
SUMMARY
[0007] The present teachings provide a gauge system, including
methods and apparatus, for positioning workpieces to be processed.
In some embodiments, the gauge system may have a plurality of stops
for positioning the end of a workpiece at distinct distances from a
processing station. In some embodiments, the plurality of stops may
be arrayed along a rail assembly having an adjustable length.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a top view of an exemplary gauge system for
positioning workpieces to be processed, in accordance with aspects
of the present teachings.
[0009] FIGS. 2-5 are top views of another exemplary gauge system
for positioning workpieces to be sawed, with a workpiece disposed
at various positions along a positioning axis of the system, in
accordance with aspects of the present teachings.
[0010] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an exemplary controller that
may be included in the gauge systems of the present teachings.
[0011] FIG. 7 is a top view of another exemplary gauge system for
positioning workpieces to be processed, in accordance with aspects
of the present teachings.
[0012] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a rail and a guide of the
gauge system of FIG. 7, taken generally along line 8-8 of FIG.
7.
[0013] FIG. 9 is a sectional view of a rail and a driver of the
gauge system of FIG. 7, taken generally along line 9-9 of FIG.
7.
[0014] FIG. 10 is a sectional view of a rail of the gauge system of
FIG. 7, taken generally along line 10-10 of FIG. 7 adjacent a stop
of the rail.
[0015] FIG. 11 is a top, exploded view of a joint between rail
frame sections of the gauge system of FIG. 7, taken generally at
the position of the rail shown in FIG. 10.
[0016] FIG. 12 is a top view of an exemplary rail including a
pivotable stop that accommodates workpieces with either a square
end or an angled end, in accordance with aspects of the present
teachings.
[0017] FIG. 13 is a top view of an exemplary gauge system with a
folding rail, in accordance with aspects of the present
teachings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] The present teachings provide a gauge system, including
methods and apparatus, for positioning workpieces to be processed.
The gauge system may have a rail with selectable stops.
Alternatively, or in addition, the rail may have an extended (or
longer) working configuration and a more compact (or shorter)
storage configuration, for example, configurations created,
respectively, by connecting and disconnecting frame sections of the
rail. In some embodiments, the gauge system may have a drive
mechanism with a range of travel substantially less than the
measurement range of the system. Overall, the gauge systems of the
present teachings may offer improved portability and/or
storability, and/or a more compact drive mechanism, among
others.
[0019] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary gauge system 20 for positioning
workpieces to be processed. System 20 may be a linear gauge that
enables linear positioning of a workpiece 22 along a positioning
axis 24 such that one or more sites 26 along the workpiece are
selected for modification by a workpiece processor 28 (and,
optionally, 28' and/or 28''), such as a saw or drill, among others,
disposed at a processing station(s). In particular, the linear
gauge may dispose the workpiece with a trailing end 30 (or a
leading end 31) of the workpiece at a desired spacing or linear
dimension/distance 32 from workpiece processor 28. In some
embodiments, the gauge system may include a plurality of workpiece
processors. For example, the system may include workpiece processor
28 and an additional workpiece processor 28' both disposed adjacent
the same end of the driver. Alternatively, or in addition, the
system may include workpiece processor 28 and an additional
workpiece processor 28'' that flank the driver downstream and
upstream of opposing ends of the driver.
[0020] System 20 may accomplish positioning via a controller 34, a
driver (a drive mechanism) 36, and a rail assembly (a rail) 38
carrying two or more stops 40 (here, stops labeled as A-C). The
controller may be in communication, indicated at 42, with the
driver for operation of the driver. The driver may be mechanically
coupled to the rail assembly and/or the stops, for example, via a
coupling arm 43 or other coupling structure. Accordingly, the
controller may control movement, indicated at 44, of the rail
assembly and/or stops parallel to positioning axis 24, by sending
control signals to the driver. In particular, the controller may
receive one or more user inputs or signals related to workpiece
processing, such as desired processing sites relative to workpiece
ends, a cut list (e.g., the length (and, optionally, the number) of
products to be produced), defect position(s), the length of the
current workpiece and/or of stock to be used, etc. Then, based on
the inputs, the controller may operate the driver so that the rail
assembly and/or stops are moved appropriately. The rail assembly
and/or stops may be moved before and/or after the workpiece is
aligned with the rail assembly (and/or engaged with a stop). In
some embodiments, the system also may include a secondary or fixed
rail 45 that is aligned with movable rail assembly 38 and disposed
upstream or downstream of the movable rail assembly, such as
positioned on the other side of workpiece processor 28, as shown
here.
[0021] Stops 40 may be structured for alternative engagement of the
workpiece's end at discrete locations along the positioning axis.
The stops thus may be arrayed along a rail frame 46 of the rail
assembly, generally at predefined axial positions of the rail
frame. In addition, each stop may be movable relative to the rail
frame, indicated here by double-headed motion arrows oriented
orthogonally to processing axis 24. Each stop may have a deployed
or working configuration, indicated at 47 for stop C. Some or all
of the stops also may have a retracted configuration, indicated at
48 and 49, respectively, for stops A and B. Stops may be movable
when urged toward the rail frame, such as by engagement with a
retraction surface 50 of a stop (see stop A). However, stops may
remain static or fixed in position when urged parallel to the rail
frame (i.e., parallel to the positioning axis), such as when
engaged via a stop surface 52 of the stop. Workpiece 22 thus may be
aligned with the rail frame, such as manually, by abutment of a
side 54 of the workpiece with a side surface 56 of the rail frame
and/or with retraction surface 50 of one or more retracted stops
(e.g., stops A and B in the present illustration). Furthermore,
trailing end 30 of the workpiece may be engaged with the stop
surface of a stop (e.g., stop C in the present illustration) to
position the workpiece end along the positioning axis.
[0022] Controller 34 may control positioning of the rail assembly
according to which stop is selected for axial positioning of the
workpiece. The stop may be selected by a user and communicated to
the controller and/or the stop may be selected by the controller
and communicated to the user, such as stop identity indicated on a
display 60 ("STOP C"). (The stop selected by a user also may be
marked adjacent the stop by the user or via a signal from the
controller, or indicated on the controller display as a reminder to
the user.)
[0023] The gauge system may include any suitable support(s) to
support and/or guide system components. For example, the guide
system may include a support platform 62, such as a table (e.g., a
folding table), to support and/or hold the processor, driver,
controller, workpieces, and/or rail assembly. Furthermore, the
gauge system may include one or more guides 64 to direct
longitudinal movement of the rail assembly and/or stops, for
example, by restricting lateral movement of the rail assembly (such
as horizontal and/or upward movement transverse to the positioning
axis).
[0024] Driver 36 may have a linear range of travel, indicated at
66, that is substantially shorter than the length of the rail
assembly and/or the array of stops. In particular, a sufficient
range of travel may be approximately the distance between adjacent
stops, because this range of travel allows stops to be positioned
at a continuous range of locations corresponding to the collective
range of travel of all the stops. For example, if the driver has a
range of travel of about two feet, and is coupled to a rail
assembly with an array of four stops with adjacent stop pairs
spaced by two feet, the positioning range of all the stops may be
about eight feet (four stops multiplied by two feet/stop).
Accordingly, the driver may be constructed to be substantially
shorter that the rail assembly. The rail assembly thus may provide
the largest linear dimension of the system in its working
configuration (or the rail assembly may provide the second largest
linear dimension with the support platform being longest). To
facilitate storage, shipping, and/or portability, the rail assembly
further may have a storage configuration that is substantially
shorter and/or more compact than its working (operating)
configuration. For example, the rail assembly may include a
plurality of frame sections or modules 68. The sections/modules may
be assembled lengthwise, generally end to end and aligned with each
other, into an extended linear arrangement. The sections/modules
also may be disassembled or moved from the extended and/or linear
arrangement. More generally, the rail assembly may be converted
from its storage configuration to its operating configuration by
connecting frame sections to each other, by unfolding a folded rail
assembly, and/or by telescoping nested frame sections.
[0025] FIGS. 2-5 show another exemplary gauge system 80 for
positioning workpieces, such as board 82, for cutting by a saw 84.
System 80 may be constructed with many of the features described
above for system 20 of FIG. 1, including a rail assembly with stops
A, B, and C. The processing of board 82 shown in FIGS. 2-5 may be
performed consecutively, for example, to produce a collection of
products from the board, and/or may represent alternative
processing configurations to produce only one (or at least less
than all) of the products. For simplification, the processing
configurations of FIGS. 2, 3, and 5 have the rail assembly at the
same longitudinal position.
[0026] FIG. 2 shows board 82 positioned axially by engagement with
stop C. Stops A and B are retracted and a display 86 of the
controller indicates the stop selected for use (e.g., the stop
selected by the controller and/or by a user of the system). Saw 84
may move transversely, indicated at 88, to produce a cut 90 that is
relatively far from an engaged end 92 of the board.
[0027] FIG. 3 shows board 82 positioned axially by engagement with
stop B. Selection of stop B by the controller and/or user is
displayed by the controller at 93. The board may be sawed,
indicated at 94, to produce a shorter product and/or to cut the
board closer to end 92 than in FIG. 2.
[0028] FIGS. 4 and 5 show board 82 positioned axially by engagement
with stop A disposed at two distinct axial positions. Selection of
stop A by the controller and/or the user is displayed at 95. In
FIG. 4, the driver has moved the rail assembly farther away from
the saw, relative to FIG. 3, indicated by an arrow at 96. The board
may be sawed, indicated at 98 and 100, respectively, to produce
even shorter products and/or to cut the board closer to end 92 than
in FIGS. 2 and 3. In general, a workpiece may be sawed repeatedly
by engaging the end of the workpiece successively with the same
stop and/or with different stops disposed progressively closer to
the saw station.
[0029] Further aspects of the present teachings are described in
the following sections, include (I) rails and stops, (II) drive
mechanisms, (III) controllers, (IV) workpieces, (V) workpiece
processors, (VI) supports and guide structures, (VII) system
operation, and (VIII) examples.
I. Rails and Stops
[0030] The systems of the present teachings may include a workpiece
engagement structure termed a rail assembly or rail. The rail
assembly and/or portions thereof may be mechanically coupled to a
driver for driven axial motion of the rail assembly (and/or
portions, such as stops). Furthermore, the rail assembly may be
configured to facilitate positioning workpieces longitudinally,
generally parallel to a long axis of the rail assembly, and/or at a
predefined lateral location relative to the rail assembly. The rail
assembly may have any suitable structure consistent with its
intended function. Generally, the rail assembly includes a
plurality of stops coupled to a frame.
[0031] A stop, as used herein, generally includes any physical
structure capable of extending laterally to the frame and
configured to engage an end of a workpiece, to restrict axial
movement of the workpiece. A stop thus may be or include a block, a
bar, a rod, a screen, a plate, and/or the like. In some
embodiments, the stop may be replaced by a visible index that
allows manually positioning a workpiece by sight rather than by
engagement.
[0032] The stop may be fixed or movable in relation to the frame. A
movable stop may be capable of any suitable translational and/or
pivotal movement. Suitable translational movement may translate the
stop parallel to the long axis of the frame (e.g., a stop that is
movable and then fixable axially along the frame) and/or transverse
to the long axis of the frame (e.g., a stop that translates upward,
downward, inward (away from the user), and/or outward (toward the
user)). Suitable pivotal movement may pivot the stop about an axis
parallel to the long axis of the frame (e.g., see Example 1) and/or
about an axis transverse to the long axis of the frame (e.g., see
Example 2). Furthermore, the stop may pivot upward (for example,
generally toward the top of the frame), downward (e.g., toward the
bottom of the frame), and/or laterally (e.g., toward and/or away
from the frame).
[0033] Movement of the stop may position the stop between an
extended configuration and a retracted configuration. The retracted
configuration may be flush with the frame, such that a workpiece
engages the frame, and/or may project from the frame, such that a
workpiece is spaced from the frame by contact with the stop. The
stop may be configured to be urged to the retracted configuration
by engagement with a workpiece (e.g., a workpiece engaging the stop
from a vertical position and/or moving horizontally toward the
frame, among others). The stop also or alternatively may be
configured to be urged to the retracted configuration manually,
that is, with a user's hand(s). For example, the stop may be
structured to be gripped and pivoted out of the extended
configuration. The stop may be biased toward the extended or
retracted configuration. A biasing mechanism, such as a spring
(e.g., a coil spring, a leaf spring, an air spring, etc.) may be
coupled to the stop, such that, for example, the spring returns to
the extended configuration after a retracting force is removed.
[0034] In some examples, the stop may be coupled to a driver that
drives movement of the stop to the extended and/or retracted
configurations. Accordingly, movement of the stops relative to the
frame may be controlled by the controller, to automate stop
extension/retraction.
[0035] In some examples, the extended and retracted configuration
of each stop may be sensed by a sensor. The sensor may be, for
example, a mechanical, magnetic, electric, and/or optical sensor.
The sensor may be arranged in communication with a controller of
the system, thereby allowing the controller to determine which
stop(s) is retracted and which stop(s) is extended at a given time.
Accordingly, the controller may use this information about stop
configurations to determine, for example, if a user has positioned
a workpiece properly (i.e., selected the proper stop for engagement
with the end of a workpiece) and/or to inform the controller of the
stop selected by the user (and thus the stop for which subsequent
driver movement, if any, should be calculated).
[0036] The stop may include a detent mechanism that retains the
stop in an extended and/or retracted configuration. The detent
mechanism may include, for example, a projection that fits into a
depression, a movable pin received in a hole, a threaded fastener
mechanism, and/or the like.
[0037] A rail assembly may have any suitable number of stops.
Generally, the rail assembly has at least two, three, or four
stops. However, in some embodiments, the rail assembly may have
only one stop. The number may be adjustable, for example, by
extending the frame by addition of one more additional frame
modules and associated stop(s) and/or by addition (or removal) of a
stop to (or from) a frame without changing the frame's length.
[0038] The stops may have any suitable arrangement along a frame.
The stops may have a uniform or nonuniform spacing between adjacent
stops of an array. In addition, the stops may be disposed at
opposing ends of the frame, at only one end (e.g., the end farther
from the workpiece processor (if performing single-ended
processing), and/or at any suitable intermediate positions.
Furthermore, a stop may be disposed generally between frame
sections, for example, at a joint between the sections, and/or
intermediate to the ends of a frame section. If intermediate, the
section may have one, two, or more intermediate stops. The stops
may be arranged or arrangeable in an array, for coupled motion
driven by a drive mechanism and/or may be movable independently and
selectively by the drive mechanism parallel to the positioning
axis.
[0039] The stops may be distinguishable visually to enable a user
to select an appropriate stop for abutment with a workpiece. For
example, the stops may have distinct associated indicia (e.g.,
distinct colors, shapes, symbols, alphanumeric characters,
textures, etc.) to allow easy identification of each stop. In some
embodiments, the stops may have associated lights that are operated
by the controller to indicate which stop is to be used for
positioning a workpiece. In some embodiments, the indicia may be
provided by a frame section adjacent each stop. However, in some
examples, the stops and/or frame sections may lack indicia, so that
the user identifies and distinguishes the stops according to their
relative positions along the rail assembly (e.g., by counting).
[0040] The frame may have any suitable number and arrangement of
frame sections. The frame may have a single frame section or a
plurality of frame sections that couple to one another. The frame
sections may be at least approximately of the same length and/or
may have different lengths. Furthermore, the frame sections may be
structured as modules that can be assembled in various numbers
and/or combinations to create frames of different lengths and/or
with different stop positions and/or spacings. Each section/module
may include one or more stops or may have no stops.
[0041] The frame sections may couple to one another by any suitable
coupling. The coupling may be relatively permanent such that the
sections are intended to remain assembled. Alternatively, the
coupling may be intended to be uncoupled partially (e.g., see
Example 3) or completely (e.g., see Example 1) between uses, if
desired, to allow the system to assume a more compact (less
extended) configuration, such as to be transported more readily
to/from a worksite or for placement into storage. Partial
uncoupling may change the axial and/or angular disposition of frame
sections with or without completely separating the sections.
Complete uncoupling may allow the sections to be separated
completely. Exemplary coupling structures may include complementary
mating structure, fasteners, a snap fit, a telescoping arranged, a
hinged (folding) arrangement, etc.
[0042] Further aspects of stop structures, rails, and multi-stop
arrangements along the rails that may be suitable for the
processing systems of the present teachings are described in the
patents and patent applications identified above in the
Cross-References, which are incorporated herein by reference,
particularly U.S. Pat. No. 4,901,992; and U.S. Pat. No.
6,216,574.
II. Drive Mechanisms
[0043] The gauge systems of the present teachings each may include
any suitable number of drive mechanisms. Each drive mechanism may
be configured to move the rail assembly (and/or portions thereof,
such as the stops), workpieces, workpiece products, a processing
station(s), a processing element of a processing station, and/or
the like. Drive mechanisms may be configured to move the rail
assembly, stops, workpieces, products, stations, and/or station
elements translationally and/or pivotally, among others.
[0044] Operation of all or a subset of the drive mechanisms of a
gauge system may be controlled by a controller (e.g., a computer)
and/or a user. A controller thus may control when a drive mechanism
is actuated (movement starts), de-actuated (movement stops), the
speed of the drive mechanism, acceleration of the drive mechanism,
the direction of motion of the drive mechanism, and/or the like.
The drive mechanism may include an encoder that informs the
controller of the position, speed, velocity, and/or acceleration,
among others, of the drive mechanism. In some examples, one or more
of the drive mechanisms may be user controlled, such as by
operation of a switch or other user control.
[0045] Each drive mechanism may include a motor and a mechanical
linkage that couples operation of the motor to movement of a load.
The load may include a carriage and a rail assembly (e.g., see
Example 1), a portion or all of a processing station, a set of
stops, an individual stop, a workpiece, and/or a product, among
others.
[0046] Any suitable motor(s) may be used in the drive mechanism.
Each motor may be an AC or DC electric motor, or may be air- (or
gas-) powered, among others. Exemplary motors may be single or
multiphase, universal, servo, induction, synchronous, stepper,
and/or gear motors, among others. Each motor may be rotary or
linear.
[0047] The drive mechanism may employ any suitable linkage to a
load. Exemplary linkages may include a belt(s), a screw(s), a
gear(s) (e.g., a worm gear), a chain(s), a cable(s), a pulley(s), a
rod(s), a rack and pinion, and/or the like. The linkage also may
include a guide structure or track that directs and/or facilitates
sliding movement of the load. Accordingly, the guide structure or
track may include bearings or other elements that promote
sliding.
[0048] Workpieces may be moved manually within the gauge systems of
the present teachings and/or their movement may be driven. In some
embodiments, workpieces may be driven along and/or transverse to a
positioning axis by a workpiece drive mechanism. The workpiece
drive mechanism may be configured to engage any suitable surface of
a workpiece, such as a trailing end (as when a stop acts as part of
a pusher mechanism) to push the workpiece, a face or side (e.g.,
using a conveyor belt or conveyor wheels, among others) to carry or
propel the workpiece, and/or a leading end region, to pull the
workpiece.
[0049] In some embodiments, the processing systems may include a
drag mechanism that affects the speed or acceleration/deceleration
of a workpiece. Further aspects of drag mechanisms that may be
suitable are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/140,541, which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0050] Processed workpieces (products) may be moved away from
processing stations by any suitable drive mechanism(s), such as
manually or via driven movement. In some examples, the workpiece
drive mechanism also may be used to push workpiece products through
an outfeed site after their processing is complete. Alternatively,
or in addition, products may be moved actively by a distinct
product drive mechanism. The product drive mechanism may include a
conveyor, for example, to carry the products farther, generally
along the positioning axis, to move the products forward beyond the
processing station(s) and/or in a reverse direction along the axis.
In some examples, the product drive mechanism may include a pusher
mechanism that engages a side of each product and pushes it
transverse to the positioning axis, for example, down a ramp and/or
onto a conveyor. Further aspects of a return conveyor that may be
suitable for the gauge systems of the present teachings are
described in the patents and patent applications listed above in
the Cross-References, which are incorporated herein by reference,
particularly U.S. Pat. No. 7,168,353.
[0051] A processing portion of a processing station may be moved
manually and/or by any suitable drive mechanism. For example,
processing stations may include drive mechanisms that move
processing portions of the stations relative to workpieces, such as
into engagement with the workpieces or into suitable proximity to
the workpieces. The drive mechanisms thus may be operated,
generally by computer control, to help position processing sites on
a workpiece and/or to conduct processing. In some examples,
processing stations, such as fixed printheads that print on
workpieces, may lack a drive mechanism so that they are stationary
during operation.
[0052] A processing station may use distinct drive mechanisms for
driving a processing element in its basic operating motion (e.g.,
rotating a circular saw blade) and for driving processing of the
element with the processing element (e.g., moving the rotating
circular saw blade through a workpiece). Each of these drive
mechanism may or may not be computer controlled.
[0053] The systems of the present teachings may include a retention
mechanism, such as a clamp mechanism or a clip that holds a
workpiece in place as it is being processed by a processing station
and/or moved by a drive mechanism. The clamp mechanism and/or clip
may be operated manually. Alternatively, or in addition, the clamp
mechanism may include a clamp member (or members) coupled to a
drive mechanism, so that the clamp member can be moved into
engagement with the workpiece to effect clamping, for example, when
the workpiece is not moving, and can be moved out of engagement
with the workpiece to permit movement of the workpiece by the
workpiece drive mechanism. Operation of the clamp drive mechanism
may be under computer control (i.e., automated).
III. Controllers
[0054] The gauge systems of the present teaching may include a
controller(s) that controls operation of the system. The controller
may, for example, receive input signals, process the input signals,
provide output signals, interact with users, store information,
control drive mechanisms (and/or other devices), and/or the like.
The controller, which may be a computer, may automate any suitable
aspects of a gauge system.
[0055] FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of an exemplary
controller 120 that may be included in an exemplary gauge system.
Controller 120 may include a data manager 122 operatively coupled
to a user interface 124 (including, for example, a display 126 and
an input device(s) 128). Exemplary input devices may include touch
controls (e.g., a keyboard, keypad, buttons, a touchscreen, etc.),
a joystick, a mouse, a reader for reading data from a digital
storage device, and/or the like. The data manager also may be
operatively coupled to a printer 130. The printer may print any
suitable data, such as a record of inputted, outputted, and/or
product data. In some embodiments, the printer may be a label
printer to print labels for workpiece products and/or may print
directly onto workpieces and/or products. Further aspects of
printing labels and printing directly onto workpieces are described
in the patents and patent applications identified above in the
Cross-References, which are incorporated herein by reference,
particularly U.S. Pat. No. 6,886,462, and U.S. Pat. No.
7,171,738.
[0056] A data manager, as used herein, generally comprises any
device capable of receiving, processing, and outputting data,
generally in the form of electrical, magnetic, and/or optical
signals. Accordingly, the data manager may include a microprocessor
132, a bus, memory, input/output ports, and/or processing
instructions (e.g., hardware, firmware, and/or software), among
others. The data manager may receive inputs 134, and may operate on
the inputs via the microprocessor using one or more algorithms or
applications 136, to provide various outputs 138. The inputs may,
for example, relate to product data 140, system data 142, and/or
workpiece data 144, among others. The outputs may, for example,
relate to a stop selected and indicated, information presented on
the display, information printed by the printer, control signals
sent to drive mechanism(s), and/or the like. Further aspects of a
customizable data manager that permits, for example, updating a
processing list via a user interface, is described in U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/839,661.
[0057] Any suitable product data 140 may be inputted about one or
more desired products to provide a product list. The product data
may correspond to the length of each desired product and,
optionally, the absolute or relative number desired of each product
(a cut list); type(s) of processing to be performed in formation of
each product; a position(s) where processing should be performed
for each product (e.g., relative to a leading and/or trailing end
of a workpiece); order of processing operations for each product;
etc. The product data also may relate to a particular product to be
formed, for example, to allow a user to select the order of
products to be formed, such as one-by-one after each product is
formed or after a set or products is formed. In some examples, the
product data may correspond to a destination for the product, such
as a bin or chute, among others, to which the product should be
directed automatically, so that products are sorted after
processing. Further aspects of sorting products and salvage
procedures that may be suitable are described in the patents and
patent applications identified above in the Cross-References, which
are incorporated herein by reference, particularly U.S. Pat. No.
6,941,864; and U.S. Pat. No. 7,168,353.
[0058] In some embodiments, the controller or a data input device
thereof, may be separated (and/or disconnected) temporarily from
other portions of a processing system, such as to allow a user to
carry the controller or data input device around a work site to
input measurements. Accordingly, the controller and/or data input
device may include a measuring mechanism, such as an optical (e.g.,
laser-based) measuring device. Further aspects of remote
measurement are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/897,997, which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0059] Any suitable system data 142 may be inputted about how a
gauge system is to operate. The system data may include, for
example, calibration data related to the measured distance between
one or more stops and a processing site defined by a processing
station. In some examples, the calibration data may be for only one
stop if the spacing between stops is predefined accurately. The
system data also may include, for example, the configuration of the
rail assembly (e.g., the number and/or type of frame sections
included in the rail assembly), the position of stops, the spacing
between stops, the number of stops, a selected speed of the drive
mechanism, user preferences about how the controller is to interact
with the user and/or conduct processing, and/or the like.
[0060] Any suitable workpiece data 144 may be inputted. The data
may relate to the type of workpiece, one or more characteristic
dimensions (e.g., the length, width, and/or thickness, among
others) of the workpiece, grade of workpiece material (e.g., high
grade, medium grade, low grade, etc.), composition, shape, defect
data (e.g., a defect position(s) along the workpiece, degree of
defect, etc.), color, and/or the like. Further aspects of inputting
defect data and using the defect data to calculate an optimum plan
for workpiece processing are described in the patents and patent
applications identified above in the Cross-References, which are
incorporated herein by reference, particularly U.S. Pat. No.
5,042,341; U.S. Pat. No. 5,960,104; U.S. Pat. No. 6,631,006; and
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/645,827.
[0061] Workpiece data 144 may be inputted through the action of a
person (e.g., a current user of the system) and/or automatically.
Accordingly, the workpiece data may be inputted through a computer
interface, such as a graphical user interface, a keyboard, a
keypad, a memory port, a network connection, etc. Alternatively, or
in addition, the workpiece data, particularly one or more
characteristic dimensions and/or defect data about of the
workpiece, may be input through a controller-linked measuring
device. The measuring device may include an optical measuring
device. Alternatively, or in addition, the measuring device may be
an encoder-based measuring device that an operator can slide
parallel to the length of a workpiece and selectively actuate, for
example, by pushing a button, to send information about the
relative position of the workpiece ends, one or more defects,
and/or other workpiece features to the controller. Exemplary
measuring devices that may be suitable for use in the processing
systems of the present teachings are described in the patents and
patent applications identified above in the Cross-References, which
are incorporated herein by reference, particularly U.S. Pat. No.
6,631,006; U.S. Pat. No. 6,898,478; and U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/645,827.
[0062] Any suitable algorithms may be used to determine outputs. In
some examples, an optimizing algorithm may be used by the
controller to calculate an optimal plan for processing each
workpiece. The optimizing algorithm may, for example, compare the
total length of a current workpiece, and/or the clear length(s) if
defects are considered, to a product list, such as a cut list, to
determine the best use of the current workpiece in accordance with
the cut list (and, optionally, which cut list products are
produced). In other words, the algorithm may select processing
positions (e.g., sawing positions) such that the processing system
partially satisfies a processing list (e.g. a cut list) with each
processing operation. Further aspects of optimization and
algorithms that may be suitable for optimization are described in
the patents and patent applications identified above in the
Cross-References, which are incorporated herein by reference,
particularly U.S. Pat. No. 4,596,172; and U.S. Pat. No.
5,444,635.
[0063] Whether or not the controller is informed of the length of a
workpiece and/or the accuracy with which this information is
conveyed may depend upon how the gauge system is processing the
workpiece. In some examples, the gauge system may process a
workpiece according to the position of the leading end of the
workpiece (generally, the opposing end not engaged with a stop).
Alternatively, the user may input no data regarding the size of a
workpiece to be processed. For example, the user may input product
data or select a product to be produced and the controller may
assume that the user has a workpiece of sufficient length. In some
examples, the user may input a length characteristic of stock
workpieces being used. Further aspects of optimization and
algorithms that may be suitable are described above in the patents
and patent applications identified above in the Cross-References,
which are incorporated herein by reference, particularly U.S. Pat.
No. 4,596,172; U.S. Pat. No. 5,444,635; U.S. Pat. No. 7,171,738;
and U.S. patent application Ser. 10/645,827.
IV. Workpieces
[0064] The gauge systems of the present teachings may facilitate
processing workpieces. A workpiece, as used herein, is any piece of
material that will be, or is being, positioned for processing.
Accordingly, a workpiece may be in a raw or "unprocessed" form
(before any processing by a system), in a partially processed form
(during and/or after partial processing by the system), or in a
fully processed form (after processing of the workpiece by the
system has been completed and/or the workpiece has passed through
the system). Each processing station of a system thus may process
the raw form of the workpiece, a partially processed form of the
workpiece (such as a workpiece cut into smaller pieces or segments
(a segmented form of the workpiece) and/or modified otherwise), or
both. The processed form of a workpiece, as used herein, is termed
a workpiece product or product. Although processed by a first pass
through the system, a product may be processed additionally outside
the system or during a second pass through the system.
[0065] A workpiece may have any suitable composition. Workpieces
thus may be formed of wood, metal, plastic, fabric, cardboard,
paper, glass, ceramic, or a combination thereof, among others. The
composition may be generally uniform or may vary in different
regions of a workpiece (e.g., a workpiece with a wood body and a
vinyl coating). Exemplary workpieces are wood products, for
example, sawn lumber, wood laminates, wood composites, etc. Other
exemplary workpieces are metal sheets or strips.
[0066] A workpiece may have any suitable shape and size. Generally,
the workpiece is elongate, so that the workpiece can be positioned
and processed relative to a positioning axis that is parallel to
the long axis of the workpiece. However, in some embodiments, the
workpiece may not be elongate and/or may not be oriented so that
the long axis of the workpiece is parallel to the positioning axis.
The workpiece may have any suitable length. Exemplary lengths are
based on available lengths of stock pieces, such as stock lumber of
about two feet to twenty feet in length, for the purpose of
illustration. In some examples, the workpiece may have a
rectangular cross section, opposing ends, sides, and faces. One or
both ends may be square or oblique (angled/beveled). Furthermore,
the sides and faces may be planar or nonplanar.
[0067] A workpiece may be of generic stock or may be pre-processed
according to a particular application, before processing with a
gauge system. For example, the workpiece may be a standard piece of
raw lumber. Alternatively, the workpiece, before processing by the
gauge system, may include one or more holes, grooves, ridges,
surface coatings, markings, etc., created, for example, based on
desired features of products to be formed by the gauge system.
Further aspects of workpieces that may be suitable are described in
the patents and patent applications identified above in the
Cross-References, which are incorporated herein by reference,
particularly U.S. Pat. No. 6,631,006; U.S. Pat. No. 7,080,431; and
U.S. Pat. No. 7,171,738.
V. Workpiece Processors
[0068] The gauge systems of the present teachings each may include
no workpiece processors, or may include one, two, or more workpiece
processors, generally creating processing stations for processing
workpieces. The term "processing," as used herein, can be any
action or set of actions that result in structural modification of
a workpiece. A structural modification is any change in the shape,
size, a surface aspect, and/or other property of a workpiece, for
example, by removing material from the workpiece, adding material
to the workpiece, deforming the workpiece, and/or changing the
molecular structure of the workpiece, among others. Accordingly, a
processing station is any portion of a gauge system that can effect
processing of a workpiece. Each processing station generally
includes a machine or set of machines configured to perform a
processing operation, and an associated space in which the
processing can be performed on a workpiece. A system with two or
more processing stations may include distinct processing stations
that perform two or more different types of processing operations
and/or that can perform the same type of processing operation at
different positions (for example, at the same time).
[0069] A processing station may include a processing element that
engages a workpiece and/or ejects a material or projectile toward
the workpiece. Exemplary processing elements that engage a
workpiece may include a blade, a drill bit, a router bit, a pen, a
tip, a scribe, a brush, etc. Exemplary processing elements that
eject (or fire) a material or projectile toward the workpiece,
with, or more generally without contact between the workpiece and
the processing elements, may include a printhead, a sprayer, a
dropper, a projectile gun, etc. (Exemplary projectiles may include
spacers, fasteners, joint members (e.g., dowels, biscuits,
butterfly locks, etc.), and/or the like. Processing elements may
have any suitable disposition and/or direction of travel relative
to a workpiece. For example, processing elements may be disposed
above, below, laterally, and/or adjacent an end of the workpiece
(and/or a segment thereof). Furthermore, processing elements may be
movable translationally and/or pivotably, in any suitable
direction, including downward, upward, transverse, oblique, and/or
longitudinal motion, among others, relative to the workpiece. This
motion may position the processing element at a suitable position
along the length, width, and/or depth of the workpiece, and in some
examples (e.g., drilling, sawing, and/or routing, among others),
may introduce the processing element into and/or through the
workpiece. Accordingly, the processing elements may be configured
to process faces, sides, and/or ends of workpieces.
[0070] Movement of processing elements, termed processing movement,
to dispose the elements in operational position relative to
workpieces, may be controlled manually and/or via a controller.
Processing elements also may have a basic repetitive operating
motion, such as rotation, reciprocation, and/or travel along a
looped path, among others, which may be actuated separately by an
element driver, and also may be manually or computer
controlled.
[0071] The processing stations of a gauge system may have any
suitable positional, functional, and operational relationship. Two
or more of the processing stations may be disposed upstream and
downstream of one another, generally along a positioning axis (a
processing path) of a gauge system. In some cases, the two or more
processing stations generally may flank or oppose the ends of the
drive mechanism and/or rail assembly for double-ended processing.
Accordingly, the controller may be configured to position a
selected stop (and, optionally, one of two opposing engagement
surfaces (sides) of the stop) relative to one or the other of the
processing stations. Further aspects of double-ended processing are
described in the patents and patent applications identified above
in the Cross-References, which are incorporated herein by
reference, particularly U.S. Pat. No. 7,080,431; and U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/492,703. Alternatively, or in addition, two
or more of the processing stations may have about the same position
along the processing path, for example, when the processing
stations occupy substantially nonoverlapping positions around the
workpiece. The processing stations may have a fixed or adjustable
positional relationship relative to one another (and/or to the
workpiece), particularly along the processing path of the
workpiece. Accordingly, in some examples, the processing stations
may be movable to the same position in the processing path. The
processing stations may perform processing operations on a
workpiece at any suitable relative times. For example, the
processing stations may operate in a sequential manner on the same
region of the workpiece (e.g., forming a cavity in a region with a
first station, and then placing a component in the cavity with a
second station), may operate at overlapping times on the workpiece
(e.g., cutting a workpiece at a saw station as the workpiece is
being drilled at a drill station), and/or may operate at
non-overlapping times on the workpiece (e.g., processing a
workpiece using a station and during a first time period (or a
first set of intervals), while the workpiece is moving, and
processing the workpiece using another station and during a second,
nonoverlapping time period (or set of nonoverlapping intervals),
while the workpiece is not moving). Processing operations performed
with two or more processing stations, and workpiece movement, each
may be performed manually and/or may be controlled by computer.
[0072] A processing station may be configured for removing material
from a workpiece, to change the shape, size, and/or a surface
aspect of the workpiece. Exemplary processing stations for removing
material include a saw station (or another cutting station
including a laser, knife, flame, electron beam, etc.) for cutting a
workpiece, a router station for routing/milling a workpiece, a
scorer station for scoring the surface of a workpiece, a sander
station for smoothing the surface of a workpiece, a hole-forming or
drill station for forming a hole in a workpiece, a borer station
for widening a hole in a workpiece, a shearer station for shearing
a workpiece, a deburrer station for deburring a cut end and/or
other surface of a workpiece, a V-groove station for cutting a
V-groove in a workpiece, a punch station for punching a hole in a
workpiece, and/or the like.
[0073] A saw station may include any suitable type of saw, saw
blade, blade orientation, and blade movement. Exemplary blades may
include circular blades, band blades, and/or reciprocating blades,
among others. The blades may be configured to perform crosscuts
(generally transverse to the length of a workpiece; e.g., chop
saws), rip cuts (generally along the length of a workpiece; e.g.,
rip saws), miter cuts, dado cuts, angle cuts, nonlinear cuts, etc.
The saw station thus may include a motor that drives the blade
rotationally (e.g., circular saws), around a loop (e.g., band
saws), and/or back and forth (e.g., reciprocating saws). The driven
saw blade may be configured to be actuated for cutting a workpiece
by movement of the driven blade, in any suitable direction relative
to a workpiece, including translationally (e.g., a radial arm saw)
and or along an arc through pivoting motion (e.g., a chop saw,
using an upward and/or downward motion). Further aspects of forming
dados that may be suitable for the systems of the present teachings
are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/958,690, which
is incorporated herein by reference.
[0074] A drill station may include any suitable components and may
operate by any suitable direction of approach to a workpiece. The
drill station may include a driver and a drill bit rotated by the
driver. Positioning of the drill bit may be controlled manually or
by computer. This positioning may be parallel to the long axis of
the drill bit (to control depth of drilling for through-holes or
recesses), and/or transverse to this axis. Accordingly, the depth
of drilling may be controlled, to form through-holes or recesses.
Also, the transverse, longitudinal, and/or vertical position of
hole formation on a workpiece may be controlled, as may the angle
of hole formation.
[0075] A processing station may be configured to add material to a
workpiece, to change the shape, size, and/or a surface aspect of
the workpiece. Exemplary processing stations for adding material
include a print station for adding one or more surface marks (an
indicium or indicia) to a workpiece, a fastener station for adding
a fastener to a workpiece (such as a nail, screw, bolt, rivet,
bracket, hook, staple, dowel, biscuit, butterfly lock, spline,
etc.), a coating station for adding a surface coating or fluid
(e.g., paint, varnish, stain, sealant, glue, etc.) to a surface or
surface region of a workpiece, a spacer station for adding a spacer
element (e.g., a spacer ball, a block, a spline, etc.) to a
workpiece, an assembly station that connects (e.g., joins) the
workpiece with one or more other components, and/or the like.
[0076] A processing station may be configured to change the shape
of a workpiece by deformation of the workpiece. Exemplary
deformation may include bending, twisting, folding, compression,
stamping, and/or the like.
[0077] A processing station may be configured to change the
molecular structure of a workpiece. Exemplary operations that may
be used to change the molecular structure of a workpiece, either
globally or locally in the workpiece, may include heating, cooling,
exposure to electromagnetic radiation (e.g., visible light,
infrared light, radiofrequency waves, microwaves, ultraviolet
light, X-rays, gamma-rays, etc.) or particle radiation, soundwaves
(sonic or ultrasonic), compression, and/or the like.
[0078] Further aspects of processing stations that may be suitable
are described in the patents and patent applications identified
above in the Cross-References, which are incorporated herein by
reference, particularly U.S. Pat. No. 7,171,738; and U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/958,690.
VI. Supports and Guide Structures
[0079] The gauge systems of the present teachings may include
various support and/or guide structures that support, guide, and/or
facilitate movement of workpieces, processing stations, and/or
processing portions of processing stations. For example, the
support structures may include a table. The table may be foldable
and/or may disassemble to increase the portability of the system.
The table may include structures that facilitate and/or guide
sliding, such as wheels, bearings, fixed rails/fences, and/or a
slider, among others. One or more processing stations and/or a rail
assembly may be coupled to the table or to adjacent support
structures. Coupled components may be removable readily from the
table to increase the portability and storability of the gauge
system.
VII. System Operation
[0080] The gauge systems of the present teachings may be operated
in various combinations of manual and automated modes to process
workpieces into products. The modes may include manual or automated
stop selection, manual or automated selection of a product to
produce from a list of products, manual or automated positioning of
a workpiece relative to a stop, manual or driven motion of the
workpiece along a positioning axis, manual or automated processing
after the workpiece is properly positioned along the positioning
axis, manual or automated labeling of a workpiece or product,
and/or the like.
VIII. EXAMPLES
[0081] The following examples describe selected aspects and
embodiments of the present teachings, particularly exemplary gauge
systems for processing workpieces and components of the gauge
systems. These examples and the various features and aspects
thereof are included for illustration and are not intended to
define or limit the entire scope of the present teachings.
Example 1
Exemplary Gauge System
[0082] This example describes an exemplary gauge system 150
including an exemplary driver, rail assembly, and guide for the
rail assembly; see FIGS. 7-11.
[0083] FIG. 7 shows a top view of gauge system 150. The system may
include a drive mechanism 152 that allows accurate positioning of a
workpiece 154 relative to one or more processing stations 156
(here, a saw station). The drive mechanism may be controlled by a
controller that operates the drive mechanism and a coupled rail
assembly 158, to position the rail assembly along a linear
processing path 160. The rail assembly may have a plurality of
stops 162, one of which may be selected for engagement with the end
of the workpiece (e.g., the selected stop indicated at 164). The
workpiece may be driven longitudinally by the drive mechanism
(e.g., with the selected stop in engagement with an end of the
working and thus acting as a pusher). Alternatively, the workpiece
may be positioned manually in engagement with the selected stop,
generally after the rail assembly has stopped moving and the
selected stop is static.
[0084] Rail assembly 158 may include a frame 166 having a plurality
of discrete frame component or rail sections 168 disposed between
stops 162. The frame may slide along a support, such as a table
(see FIGS. 8-10). Accordingly, the frame and/or support may have
wheels and/or bearings that facilitate sliding motion.
Alternatively, or in addition, the frame may be guided by one or
more guides 170 coupled to the support, for example, attached
fixedly to the support.
[0085] FIG. 8 shows a sectional view of frame 166 and guide 170
taken generally along line 8-8 of FIG. 7. The guide (or guides) be
mounted on a support 171 (here, using fasteners) and may include a
guide projection 172 projecting upward from the base or body of the
guide. The guide projection may be received in a longitudinal track
or groove 174 formed in the underside of the frame and extending at
least a portion or all of the length of the frame. The guide
projection, which may be static, thus may guide movement of track
174 as the track is moved with the frame. In some examples, the
guide (and/or the frame) may include a wheel or bearing(s) to
facilitate movement and/or to reduce friction. In other
embodiments, the support (e.g., a table) and/or an attachment
thereto also may provide a support track (e.g., a ridge or groove)
in, on, or over which the frame may ride. The support track may
extend any suitable portion of the length of the support and may be
continuous or interrupted by one or more breaks in the track.
[0086] FIG. 9 shows a sectional view of frame 166 and a screw-based
drive mechanism 152 taken generally along line 9-9 of FIG. 7. The
drive mechanism may include a housing 176 and a lead screw 178
coupled rotatably to the housing. The drive mechanism also may
include an internally threaded carriage 180 coupled to the lead
screw for rotation-driven axial motion of the carriage along the
lead screw and thus the housing. The carriage may include an arm
182 that extends out of an opening 184 in the housing to frame 166
of the rail assembly. The arm may be attached to the frame,
indicated at 186, such that the arm and the frame move together. In
some embodiments, the arm may be connectable to the frame
alternatively via distinct rail sections and/or via two or more
alternative positions along a rail section. In some embodiments,
the arm may not attach to the frame, but to a sub-frame carrying
the stops. Accordingly, portions of the frame, such as an alignment
surface 188 that may engage the side of a workpiece may be static
during operation of the drive mechanism.
[0087] FIG. 10 shows a sectional view of frame 166 and stop 162
taken generally along line 10-10 of FIG. 7; FIG. 11 is an exploded
view taken from above the frame at about the same position. Frame
sections 168 may be coupled to one another via one or more bridge
elements, such as rods 190, 191 received in respective holes 192,
193 (see FIGS. 8, 10, and 11) extending into frame sections from
the ends thereof to form a joint 194 (see FIG. 11). A lock
mechanism 196 may be actuated to restrict uncoupling of the frame
sections at the joint. The lock mechanism may, for example, be a
latch mechanism including a draw latch 198 on one side of the rail
joint and a latch strike 200 on the other side of the joint. In
some embodiments, the lock mechanism may be operated manually, such
as via a handle connected to the draw latch, to lock and unlock
connection of adjacent frame sections.
[0088] One or more bushings 202, 203 may serve as spacers and/or
stop couplers (see FIGS. 10 and 11). For example, the bushings may
be disposed on rods 190, 191 to separate the ends of the frame
sections and thus act as spacers. A stop member 204 (forming stop
162) may be received on bushing 202 for pivotal movement about the
central axes of the bushing and rod 191. The stop member may be
biased pivotally, such as by a coil spring. Accordingly, the stop
member may be engaged and pivoted inward (clockwise at 206 in FIG.
10), with an engaging force, and then may spring outward to its
extended position when the engaging force is removed.
Example 2
Rail with Stops Adjustable for Beveled Ends of Workpieces
[0089] FIG. 12 shows an exemplary rail 210 including a pivotable
stop 212 that accommodates workpieces 214 and 216 with ends formed
at distinct angles. Stop 212 may be pivotable about a vertical axis
218 and may be biased toward alignment with the frame of the rail
assembly (clockwise motion in the present illustration) or may be
biased toward an orthogonal disposition relative to the frame. In
any event, the stop may be pulled out (e.g., by hand) to various
angles to engage workpieces with a beveled end (e.g., workpiece
214) or a square end (e.g., workpiece 216).
Example 3
Exemplary Gauge System with Folding Rail
[0090] FIG. 13 shows an exemplary gauge system 230 with a driver
231 and a folding rail 232 having a hinge mechanism 234 between
each adjacent pair of frame sections 236. Stops 238 may be disposed
intermediate the hinge mechanisms, as shown here, and/or may have
about the same longitudinal positions as the hinge mechanisms.
[0091] The disclosure set forth above may encompass multiple
distinct inventions with independent utility. Although each of
these inventions has been disclosed in its preferred form(s), the
specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated herein
are not to be considered in a limiting sense, because numerous
variations are possible. The subject matter of the inventions
includes all novel and nonobvious combinations and subcombinations
of the various elements, features, functions, and/or properties
disclosed herein. The following claims particularly point out
certain combinations and subcombinations regarded as novel and
nonobvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and
subcombinations of features, functions, elements, and/or properties
may be claimed in applications claiming priority from this or a
related application. Such claims, whether directed to a different
invention or to the same invention, and whether broader, narrower,
equal, or different in scope to the original claims, also are
regarded as included within the subject matter of the inventions of
the present disclosure.
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