U.S. patent application number 17/572784 was filed with the patent office on 2022-06-09 for self-adjusting pocket hole jig system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Kreg Enterprises, Inc.. Invention is credited to Timothy J. Forbes, Scott Schaaf, Kevin Shin, Derek Steelman, Shelby Strempke.
Application Number | 20220176466 17/572784 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006165056 |
Filed Date | 2022-06-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220176466 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Strempke; Shelby ; et
al. |
June 9, 2022 |
SELF-ADJUSTING POCKET HOLE JIG SYSTEM
Abstract
A self-adjusting pocket hole jig system is presented having a
base, an upright assembly operably connected to the base, a
clamping assembly, operably connected to the upright assembly, a
handle operably connected to the clamping assembly, and a drill
guide assembly operably connected to the clamping assembly. The
drill guide assembly is configured and arranged to move along the
upright assembly between an unclamped position and a clamped
position in response to movement of the handle. Movement of the
handle simultaneously adjusts the height of the drill guide
assembly as well as facilitates clamping of the drill guide
assembly for workpieces of various thicknesses.
Inventors: |
Strempke; Shelby; (Kelley,
IA) ; Forbes; Timothy J.; (Ankeny, IA) ;
Schaaf; Scott; (Ankeny, IA) ; Steelman; Derek;
(Ankeny, IA) ; Shin; Kevin; (Phoenixville,
PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Kreg Enterprises, Inc. |
Ankeny |
IA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006165056 |
Appl. No.: |
17/572784 |
Filed: |
January 11, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
16788440 |
Feb 12, 2020 |
|
|
|
17572784 |
|
|
|
|
62804847 |
Feb 13, 2019 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B23Q 3/06 20130101; B23B
2247/10 20130101; B23B 2247/12 20130101; B23B 47/287 20130101; B23B
2260/004 20130101; B23B 49/005 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B23B 47/28 20060101
B23B047/28; B23Q 3/06 20060101 B23Q003/06 |
Claims
1. A pocket hole jig system, comprising; a base; an upright
assembly operably connected to the base; a clamping assembly
operably connected to the upright assembly; a handle operably
connected to the clamping assembly; wherein the handle is moveable
between a raised position and a lowered position; a drill guide
assembly; the drill guide assembly operably connected to the
clamping assembly; a drill guide block; the drill guide block
configured to operably connect to, and be removed from, the drill
guide assembly; wherein the drill guide block has a clamping face;
wherein the drill guide block has a plurality of drill guides
having corresponding bores that intersect the clamping face.
2. The system of 1, wherein the base has a lower portion and a
backstop, wherein the backstop is positioned opposite the upright
assembly.
3. The system of 1, wherein the upright assembly extends upward and
away from the base at an angle such that, when the drill guide
block is attached to the drill guide assembly, the drill guide
block moves downward and forward toward a workpiece when the handle
is moved from a raised position to a lowered position.
4. The system of 1, wherein a workpiece is clamped between a
backstop of the base and the clamping face of the drill guide
block.
5. The system of 1, wherein the drill guide block has connection
features and the drill guide assembly has connection features;
wherein the connection features of the drill guide block are
configured to engage the connection features of the drill guide
assembly to facilitate installation of the drill guide block on the
drill guide assembly.
6. The system of 1, wherein the drill guide block has connection
features; wherein the connection features of the drill guide block
are one or more recesses.
7. The system of 1, wherein the drill guide assembly has connection
features; wherein the connection features of the drill guide
assembly are one or more projections connected to spring loaded
buttons.
8. The system of 1, wherein the drill guide block has connection
features and the drill guide assembly has connection features;
wherein the connection features of the drill guide block are one or
more recesses and the connection features of the drill guide
assembly are one or more projections; wherein the connection
features of the drill guide block are configured to engage the
connection features of the drill guide assembly; wherein the
connection features of the drill guide assembly are spring biased;
wherein when the spring bias of the connection features of the
drill guide assembly are compressed they release the connection
features of the drill guide block allowing the drill guide block to
be removed.
9. The system of 1, further comprising a clamp force adjustment
mechanism operably connected with the clamping assembly, wherein
the clamp force adjustment mechanism adjusts clamping pressure
applied on a workpiece.
10. The system of 1, wherein the clamping assembly includes a
linkage assembly that clamps a workpiece in an over-center
condition.
11. The system of 1, further comprising a return spring wherein the
return spring facilitates automatic return of the drill guide
assembly to the unclamped position.
12. The system of 1, wherein the drill guide assembly includes an
opening that receives a dust collection member that facilitates
removal of woodchips, dust and debris generated during
drilling.
13. The system of 1, wherein the user moves the handle to adjust
the height of the drill guide block, based on thickness of a
workpiece, as well as to clamp the workpiece.
14. The system of 1, wherein movement of the handle from the raised
position to the lowered position automatically lowers the drill
guide block to the appropriate height for workpieces of different
thicknesses.
15. The system of 1, wherein movement of the handle from the raised
position to the lowered position automatically moves the drill
guide block to a corresponding forward position for a workpiece
based on thickness of the workpiece.
16. The system of 1, wherein movement of the handle from the raised
position to the lowered position automatically applies
approximately a set clamping pressure on workpieces of different
thickness.
17. The system of 1, wherein the handle moves in a single plane to
facilitate clamping as well as unclamping of the workpiece.
18. They system of claim 1, wherein the base has a backstop and the
backstop includes a grip pad.
19. The system of 1, wherein the base has a backstop and the
backstop includes a grip pad; wherein the grip pad of the backstop
is comprised of a compressible material having a high coefficient
of friction.
20. A pocket hole jig system, comprising; a base; an upright
assembly operably connected to the base; a clamping assembly
operably connected to the upright assembly; a handle operably
connected to the clamping assembly; wherein the handle is moveable
between a raised position and a lowered position; a drill guide
assembly; the drill guide assembly operably connected to the
clamping assembly; the drill guide assembly having one or more
connection features; a drill guide block; the drill guide block
operably connected to the drill guide assembly; the drill guide
block having a clamping face; the drill guide block having one or
more generally cylindrical bores; the drill guide block having one
or more connection features; wherein the one or more connection
features of the drill guide block are configured to engage the one
or more connection features of the drill guide assembly; wherein
the connection features of the drill guide block are recesses;
wherein the connection features of the drill guide assembly are
projections connected to spring biased members; wherein when the
one or more connection features of the drill guide assembly are
pressed, they release the one or more connection features of the
drill guide block allowing the drill guide block to be removed.
21. A pocket hole jig system, comprising; a base; an upright
assembly operably connected to the base; a clamping assembly
operably connected to the upright assembly; a handle operably
connected to the clamping assembly; wherein the handle is moveable
between a raised position and a lowered position; a drill guide
assembly operably connected to the clamping assembly; the drill
guide assembly having one or more connection features; a drill
guide block; the drill guide block having generally cylindrical
bores; the drill guide block having one or more connection
features; wherein the one or more connection features of the drill
guide block are configured to engage the one or more connection
features of the drill guide assembly and thereby facilitate
installation and removal of the drill guide block; wherein when the
drill guide block is attached to the drill guide assembly, movement
of the handle from the raised position to the lowered position
adjusts the height of the drill guide block and drill guide
assembly to facilitate clamping of workpieces of various
thicknesses.
22. The system of 21, wherein when the drill guide block is
attached to the drill guide assembly, movement of the handle from
the raised position to the lowered position locks drill guide block
and drill guide assembly in position to complete a clamping
process.
23. A method of forming pocket holes, the steps comprising;
providing a pocket hole jig having a base with a lower portion and
a backstop, an upright assembly operably connected to the base, a
clamping assembly operably connected to the upright assembly, a
drill guide assembly operably connected to the clamping assembly, a
drill guide block, and a handle operably connected to the clamping
assembly; installing the drill guide block onto the drill guide
assembly; placing a workpiece having a thickness between the
backstop of the base and the drill guide assembly; moving the
handle from an unclamped position to a clamped position thereby
causing the drill guide assembly to move along the upright assembly
downward and toward the workpiece and the backstop until the drill
guide assembly operatively engages the workpiece at which point the
clamping assembly clamps the workpiece between the backstop and the
drill guide assembly.
24. The method of 23, further comprising the step of drilling at
least one pocket hole in the workpiece by inserting a drill bit
through a bore of the drill guide block in the drill guide assembly
after the workpiece is clamped.
25. The method of 23, further comprising the steps of: drilling at
least one pocket hole in the workpiece by inserting a drill bit
through a bore of the drill guide block in the drill guide assembly
after the workpiece is clamped; moving the handle from a clamped
position to an unclamped position after at least one pocket hole is
drilled in the workpiece thereby causing the drill guide assembly
to move along the upright assembly upward and away from the
workpiece and the backstop thereby disengaging the workpiece.
26. The method of 23, further comprising the steps of: drilling at
least one pocket hole in the workpiece by inserting a drill bit
through a bore of the drill guide block in the drill guide assembly
after the workpiece is clamped; unclamping the workpiece after the
at least one pocket hole is drilled in the workpiece by moving the
handle from a clamped position to an unclamped position thereby
causing the drill guide assembly to move along the upright assembly
upward and away from the workpiece and the backstop.
27. A method of forming pocket holes, the steps comprising;
providing a pocket hole jig having a base with a lower portion and
a backstop, an upright assembly operably connected to the base, a
clamping assembly operably connected to the upright assembly, a
drill guide assembly operably connected to the clamping assembly,
and a handle operably connected to the clamping assembly; placing a
workpiece having a thickness between the backstop of the base and
the drill guide assembly; moving the handle from an unclamped
position to a clamped position thereby causing the drill guide
assembly to move along the upright assembly downward and toward the
workpiece and the backstop until the drill guide assembly engages
the workpiece at which point the clamping assembly clamps the
workpiece between the backstop and the drill guide assembly.
28. The method of 27, further comprising the step of drilling at
least one pocket hole in the workpiece by inserting a drill bit
through a bore of a drill guide in the drill guide assembly after
the workpiece is clamped.
29. The method of 27, further comprising the steps of: drilling at
least one pocket hole in the workpiece by inserting a drill bit
through a bore of a drill guide in the drill guide assembly after
the workpiece is clamped; moving the handle from a clamped position
to an unclamped position after at least one pocket hole is drilled
in the workpiece thereby causing the drill guide assembly to move
along the upright assembly upward and away from the workpiece and
the backstop thereby disengaging the workpiece.
30. The method of 27, further comprising the steps of: drilling at
least one pocket hole in the workpiece by inserting a drill bit
through a bore of a drill guide in the drill guide assembly after
the workpiece is clamped; unclamping the workpiece after at least
one pocket hole is drilled in the workpiece by moving the handle
from a clamped position to an unclamped position thereby causing
the drill guide assembly to move along the upright assembly upward
and away from the workpiece and the backstop.
31. The method of 27, wherein the unclamped position of the handle
is a raised position.
32. The method of 27, wherein the clamped position of the handle is
a lowered position.
33. The method of 27, wherein clamping of the workpiece requires
only movement of the handle by the user.
34. The method of 27, wherein the clamping assembly automatically
adjusts to various workpiece thicknesses.
35. The method of 27, wherein when the workpiece is clamped, the
clamping assembly is in an over-center condition.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Utility
application Ser. No. 16/788,440 which was filed on Feb. 12, 2020,
which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.
62/804,847 which was filed on Feb. 13, 2019, each of which is fully
incorporated by reference herein.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] This disclosure relates generally to jig systems for holding
workpieces. More specifically and without limitation, this
disclosure relates generally to improved drilling jig systems that
facilitate faster and/or easier clamping of workpieces.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] Pocket hole wood joinery involves joining boards by
inserting a fastener at an angle through the edge of one workpiece
into an adjoining workpiece, thereby joining the two workpieces
together. Such joints are commonly used for face frames, cabinet
boxes, leg-to-rail joinery in chairs and tables, and so forth.
Drill guides or jigs are used to drill the holes through which the
fasteners or pocket screws are inserted into the adjoining
workpiece.
[0004] To facilitate the formation of pocket hole joinery,
Applicant, Kreg Tool Company offers a line of pocket hole jigs.
These pocket hole jigs are configured to clamp a workpiece in place
and help guide a stepped drill bit at an angle into a workpiece
thereby forming a pocket hole in the workpiece. The pocket hole
formed by this process is configured to receive a screw that is
used to screw two workpieces together.
[0005] Existing jigs for use forming pocket hole joinery have a
variety of configurations and operate in a variety of manners.
These configurations and manners of operation leave much to be
desired. In addition, all of the existing pocket hole jigs
available have deficiencies and therefore are not well suited for
various applications, they are unnecessarily time consuming or they
are unnecessarily inefficient to use.
[0006] For the reasons stated above, and for other reasons stated
below which will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon
reading and understanding the disclosure, there is a need in the
art for a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that improves upon
the state of the art.
[0007] Thus it is an object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that improves upon the state of the art.
[0008] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that is easy
to use.
[0009] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that is efficient.
[0010] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that can be
used with any type of workpiece.
[0011] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that is cost effective.
[0012] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that forms
accurate pocket holes.
[0013] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that is safe to use.
[0014] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that has a
durable design.
[0015] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that has a long useful life.
[0016] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that provides
additional functionality for pocket hole jigs and pocket hole
joinery.
[0017] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that has a wide variety of uses.
[0018] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that has a
wide variety of applications.
[0019] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that provides cost savings to a user.
[0020] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that is
relatively inexpensive.
[0021] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that provides value.
[0022] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that prevents
or reduces relative movement between the pocket hole jig and the
workpiece.
[0023] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that reduces the amount of clamping pressure required to adequately
clamp a pocket hole jig to a workpiece.
[0024] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that
facilitates the formation of aesthetically pleasing finished
products.
[0025] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that provides a clamping with a single movement of a handle.
[0026] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that
facilitates easier clamping.
[0027] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that facilitates raising and lowering of the drill guide assembly
with a single movement of the handle.
[0028] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that
facilitates easy release of the clamping mechanism.
[0029] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that facilitates easy return of the clamping mechanism to a
non-clamping position.
[0030] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that
facilitates easy adjustment of the clamping pressure.
[0031] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that facilitates stable placement when used horizontally.
[0032] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that that
facilitates stable placement when used vertically.
[0033] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that facilitates easy removal of chips and debris during use.
[0034] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that is
comfortable to use.
[0035] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that is more stable than other pocket hole jigs.
[0036] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that
facilitates automatic return of the clamping assembly to a
non-clamping position.
[0037] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that facilitates spring loaded return of the clamping assembly to a
non-clamping position.
[0038] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that improves
the ergonomics of use.
[0039] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that easily adjusts to workpieces of various thicknesses.
[0040] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that adjusts
the drill guide assembly to the optimum position for each
workpiece.
[0041] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that consistently applies the same clamping pressure regardless of
workpiece thickness.
[0042] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that improves
the intuitiveness of drilling pocket hole jigs.
[0043] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that improves the usability of pocket hole jigs.
[0044] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that
eliminates the ability to choose incorrect wood thickness.
[0045] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that reduces set-up time.
[0046] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that provides
a single touch point for clamping and adjusting the position of the
drill guide assembly.
[0047] Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the
disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
that provides convenient woodchip, dust and debris removal.
[0048] Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure
is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that provides
easy removal and replacement of drill guide blocks.
[0049] These and other objects, features, or advantages of at least
one embodiment will become apparent from the specification, figures
and claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0050] A self-adjusting pocket hole jig is presented having a base
having a lower portion and a backstop. An upright assembly is
connected to the base and includes a clamping assembly having a
handle, an upper link and a lower link. Clutch housing, having a
plurality of clutch plates, and a clamp force adjustment mechanism,
is connected to the upright assembly. A drill guide assembly having
a removable drill guide block is connected to the upright assembly.
The drill guide assembly moves along the upright assembly between
an unclamped position and a clamped position when the handle is
raised and lowered. Movement of the handle simultaneously adjusts
the height of the drill guide assembly as well as facilitates
clamping of the drill guide assembly for workpieces of various
thicknesses.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0051] FIG. 1 shows a left side view of a self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system, in accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0052] FIG. 2 shows a rearward side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0053] FIG. 3 shows a top view of the self-adjusting pocket hole
jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0054] FIG. 4 shows a bottom view of the self-adjusting pocket hole
jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0055] FIG. 5 shows a forward side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0056] FIG. 6 shows a first perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0057] FIG. 7 shows a second perspective view of a self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0058] FIG. 8 shows a third perspective view of a self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0059] FIG. 9 shows a fourth perspective view of a self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0060] FIG. 10 shows a fifth perspective view of a self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0061] FIG. 11 shows a sixth perspective view of a self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0062] FIG. 12 shows a seventh perspective view of a self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0063] FIG. 13 shows an eighth perspective view of a self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0064] FIG. 14 shows a left side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 1 with cut away section of upright
element and drill guide assembly removed, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0065] FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 14, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0066] FIG. 16 shows an exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 14, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0067] FIG. 17 shows another exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 14, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0068] FIG. 18 shows another exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 14, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0069] FIG. 19 shows another exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 14, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0070] FIG. 20 shows another exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 14, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0071] FIG. 21 shows another exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 14, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0072] FIG. 22 shows another exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 14, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0073] FIG. 23 shows another exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 14, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0074] FIG. 24 shows a left side cutaway view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown, in FIG. 2, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0075] FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of a base structure of a
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system, in accordance with one of
more embodiments.
[0076] FIG. 26 shows a left side view of an upright assembly of a
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system, in accordance with one of
more embodiments.
[0077] FIG. 27 shows a bottom side view of an upright assembly of a
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system, in accordance with one of
more embodiments.
[0078] FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of an upright assembly of a
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system, in accordance with one of
more embodiments.
[0079] FIG. 29 shows another perspective view of an upright
assembly of a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system, in accordance
with one of more embodiments.
[0080] FIG. 30 shows yet another perspective view of an upright
assembly of a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system, in accordance
with one of more embodiments.
[0081] FIG. 31 shows a left side view of a drill guide assembly of
a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system, in accordance with one of
more embodiments.
[0082] FIG. 32 shows a top side view of the drill guide assembly
shown in FIG. 31, in accordance with one of more embodiments.
[0083] FIG. 33 shows a forward side view of the drill guide
assembly shown in FIG. 31, in accordance with one of more
embodiments.
[0084] FIG. 34 shows a rearward side view of the drill guide
assembly shown in FIG. 31, in accordance with one of more
embodiments.
[0085] FIG. 35 shows a perspective view of the drill guide assembly
shown in FIG. 31, in accordance with one of more embodiments.
[0086] FIG. 36 shows another perspective view of the drill guide
assembly shown in FIG. 31, in accordance with one of more
embodiments.
[0087] FIG. 37 shows an exploded perspective view of the drill
guide assembly shown in FIG. 31, in accordance with one of more
embodiments.
[0088] FIG. 38 shows another exploded perspective view of the drill
guide assembly shown in FIG. 31, in accordance with one of more
embodiments.
[0089] FIG. 39 shows yet another exploded perspective view of the
drill guide assembly shown in FIG. 31, in accordance with one of
more embodiments.
[0090] FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of a drill guide assembly
of a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system and vacuum attachment,
which may be inserted therein in accordance with one of more
embodiments.
[0091] FIG. 41 shows a left side view of the drill guide assembly
shown in FIG. 40 with vacuum attachment shown in FIG. 40 inserted
therein, which may be inserted therein in accordance with one of
more embodiments.
[0092] FIG. 42 shows a right side view of the drill guide assembly
shown in FIG. 40 with vacuum attachment shown in FIG. 40 inserted
therein, which may be inserted therein in accordance with one of
more embodiments.
[0093] FIG. 43 shows a top side view of the drill guide assembly
and vacuum attachment shown in FIG. 42, in accordance with one of
more embodiments.
[0094] FIG. 44 shows a bottom top side view of the drill guide
assembly and vacuum attachment shown in FIG. 42, in accordance with
one of more embodiments.
[0095] FIG. 45 shows a perspective view of the drill guide assembly
and vacuum attachment shown in FIG. 42, in accordance with one of
more embodiments.
[0096] FIG. 46 shows a close-up left side view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 1 with cut away
section of upright element, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0097] FIG. 47 shows a close-up left side view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 46 with cut
away section of upright element and with handle 44 in a lower
position to cause clamping face 74 of drill guide block 72 to be
positioned closer to the base, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0098] FIG. 48 shows a left side view of a self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system with cut away section of upright element and with
handle 44 in an fully raised position to permitting clamping face
74 of drill guide block 72 to be positioned further from the base,
and thereby permitting a workpiece 24 to be placed on resting
surface 84 of the base and against the backstop 30, in accordance
with one or more embodiments.
[0099] FIG. 49 shows another close-up left side view of a drill
guide block and an upright element of a self-adjusting pocket hole
jig system with handle 44 of the upright element in the fully
raised position, in accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0100] FIG. 50 shows a left side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system and workpiece 24 shown in FIG. 48, with handle 44
in a lower position to cause clamping face 74 of drill guide block
72 to be positioned closer to the base so workpiece 24 and thereby
cause workpiece 24 to be in contact with both the clamping face and
the backstop, in accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0101] FIG. 51 shows a close-up left side view of a drill guide
block and an upright element of a self-adjusting pocket hole jig
system shown in FIG. 50, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0102] FIG. 52 shows a left side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 50 with handle 44 further lowered to
cause workpiece 24 to be clamped between the clamping face and the
backstop, in accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0103] FIG. 53 shows a close-up left side view of a drill guide
block and an upright element of a self-adjusting pocket hole jig
shown in FIG. 52, in accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0104] FIG. 54 shows a left side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 52 with handle 44 further lowered to
a fully lowered position to cause the drill guide block to be
locked in a position in which the workpiece 24 is clamped between
the clamping face and the backstop, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0105] FIG. 55 shows a close-up left side view of a drill guide
block and an upright element of a self-adjusting pocket hole jig
shown in FIG. 54, in accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0106] FIG. 56 shows a perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig shown in FIG. 54, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0107] FIG. 57 shows a left side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 48, with handle 44 in a fully raised
position and a thicker workpiece 24 inserted between the clamping
face and the backstop.
[0108] FIG. 58 shows a left side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 57, with handle 44 in a lowered
position causing the thicker workpiece 24 be engaged by the
clamping face and the backstop.
[0109] FIG. 59 shows a left side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 58 with handle 44 further lowered to
cause thicker workpiece 24 to be clamped between the clamping face
and the backstop, in accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0110] FIG. 60 shows a left side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 59 with handle 44 further lowered to
a fully lowered position to cause the drill guide block to be
locked in a position in which the thicker workpiece 24 is clamped
between the clamping face and the backstop, in accordance with one
or more embodiments.
[0111] FIG. 61 shows a perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig shown in FIG. 60, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0112] FIG. 62 shows a left side view of another self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0113] FIG. 63 shows a right side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0114] FIG. 64 shows a rearward side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0115] FIG. 65 shows a forward side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0116] FIG. 66 shows a first perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0117] FIG. 67 shows a second perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0118] FIG. 68 shows third perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0119] FIG. 69 shows a fourth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0120] FIG. 70 shows a fifth perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0121] FIG. 71 shows a sixth perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0122] FIG. 72 shows a seventh perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0123] FIG. 73 shows an exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0124] FIG. 74 shows another exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 62, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0125] FIG. 75 shows a left side view of another self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0126] FIG. 76 shows a left side view of yet another self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0127] FIG. 77 shows a right side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0128] FIG. 78 shows a forward side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0129] FIG. 79 shows a rearward side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0130] FIG. 80 shows a first perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0131] FIG. 81 shows a second perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0132] FIG. 82 shows third perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0133] FIG. 83 shows a fourth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0134] FIG. 84 shows a fifth perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0135] FIG. 85 shows a sixth perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0136] FIG. 86 shows a seventh perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0137] FIG. 87 shows an eighth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0138] FIG. 88 shows an exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 76, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0139] FIG. 89 shows a left side cutaway view of a self-adjusting
pocket hole jig, in accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0140] FIG. 90 shows another left side view of a self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0141] FIG. 91 shows a right side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0142] FIG. 92 shows a forward side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0143] FIG. 93 shows a rearward side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0144] FIG. 94 shows a first perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0145] FIG. 95 shows a second perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0146] FIG. 96 shows third perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0147] FIG. 97 shows a fourth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0148] FIG. 98 shows a fifth perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0149] FIG. 99 shows a sixth perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0150] FIG. 100 shows a seventh perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0151] FIG. 101 shows an eighth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0152] FIG. 101 shows an eighth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0153] FIG. 102 shows a left side cutaway view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0154] FIG. 103 shows an exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0155] FIG. 104 shows another exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 90, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0156] FIG. 105 shows an exploded perspective view of another
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0157] FIG. 106 shows another exploded perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0158] FIG. 107 shows a forward side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105 with storage features, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0159] FIG. 108 shows a rearward side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0160] FIG. 109 shows a left side view of the self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0161] FIG. 110 shows a right side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0162] FIG. 111 shows a topside side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0163] FIG. 112 shows a bottom side view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0164] FIG. 113 shows a first perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0165] FIG. 114 shows a second perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0166] FIG. 115 shows third perspective view of the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in accordance with one or
more embodiments.
[0167] FIG. 116 shows a fourth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0168] FIG. 117 shows a fifth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0169] FIG. 118 shows a sixth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0170] FIG. 119 shows a seventh perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0171] FIG. 120 shows an eighth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105, in
accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0172] FIG. 121 shows a ninth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105 with wings
extended, in accordance with one or more embodiments.
[0173] FIG. 122 shows a tenth perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105 with wings
retracted and workpiece, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
[0174] FIG. 123 shows a eleventh perspective view of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system shown in FIG. 105 with wings
extended and workpiece, in accordance with one or more
embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0175] In the following detailed description of the embodiments,
reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part
hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific
embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. The
embodiments of the present disclosure described below are not
intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise
forms in the following detailed description. Rather, the
embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the
art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices of
the present disclosure. It will be understood by those skilled in
the art that various changes in form and details may be made
without departing from the principles and scope of the invention.
It is intended to cover various modifications and similar
arrangements and procedures, and the scope of the appended claims
therefore should be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to
encompass all such modifications and similar arrangements and
procedures. For instance, although aspects and features may be
illustrated in or described with reference to certain figures or
embodiments, it will be appreciated that features from one figure
or embodiment may be combined with features of another figure or
embodiment even though the combination is not explicitly shown or
explicitly described as a combination. Furthermore, although some
disclosed embodiments may be described relative to specific
materials, embodiments are not limited to the specific materials or
apparatuses but only to their specific characteristics and
capabilities and other materials and apparatuses can be substituted
as is well understood by those skilled in the art in view of the
present disclosure. Moreover, although the disclosed embodiments
are primarily described in the context of pocket hole jig
applications, the embodiments are not so limited. In is appreciated
that the embodiments may be adapted for use in other applications
which may be improved by the disclosed structures, arrangements
and/or methods. It is to be understood that use of the improvements
disclosed in association with a pocket hole jig is only one of
countless examples of use and is not meant to be limiting.
[0176] It is to be understood that the terms such as "left, right,
top, bottom, front, back, side, height, length, width, upper,
lower, interior, exterior, inner, outer, and the like as may be
used herein, merely describe points of reference and do not limit
the present invention to any particular orientation or
configuration.
[0177] As used herein, the term "or" includes one or more of the
associated listed items, such that "A or B" means "A but not B,"
and "B but not A." As used herein, the term "and" includes all
combinations of one or more of the associated listed items, such
that "A and B" means "A as well as B." The use of "and/or" includes
all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items,
such that "A and/or B" includes "A but not B," "B but not A," and
"A as well as B," unless it is clearly indicated that only a single
item, subgroup of items, or all items are present. The use of
"etc." is defined as "et cetera" and indicates the inclusion of all
other elements belonging to the same group of the preceding items,
in any "and/or" combination(s).
[0178] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are
intended to include both the singular and plural forms, unless the
language explicitly indicates otherwise. Indefinite articles like
"a" and "an" introduce or refer to any modified term, both
previously-introduced and not, while definite articles like "the"
refer to a same previously-introduced term; as such, it is
understood that "a" or "an" modify items that are permitted to be
previously-introduced or new, while definite articles modify an
item that is the same as immediately previously presented. It will
be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising,"
"includes," and/or "including," when used herein, specify the
presence of stated features, characteristics, steps, operations,
elements, and/or components, but do not themselves preclude the
presence or addition of one or more other features,
characteristics, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or
groups thereof.
[0179] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as
being "connected," "coupled," "mated," "attached," "fixed," etc. to
another element, it can be directly connected to the other element,
or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an
element is referred to as being "directly connected," "directly
coupled," etc. to another element, there are no intervening
elements present. Other words used to describe the relationship
between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g.,
"between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly
adjacent," etc.). Similarly, a term such as "communicatively
connected" includes all variations of information exchange and
routing between two electronic devices, including intermediary
devices, networks, etc., connected wirelessly or not.
[0180] It will be understood that, although the ordinal terms
"first," "second," etc. may be used herein to describe various
elements, these elements should not be limited to any order by
these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element
from another; where there are "second" or higher ordinals, there
merely must be that many number of elements, without necessarily
any difference or other relationship. For example, a first element
could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element
could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope
of example embodiments or methods.
[0181] Similarly, the structures and operations discussed below may
occur out of the order described and/or noted in the figures. For
example, two operations and/or figures shown in succession may in
fact be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the
reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
Similarly, individual operations within example methods described
below may be executed repetitively, individually or sequentially,
to provide looping or other series of operations aside from single
operations described below. It should be presumed that any
embodiment or method having features and functionality described
below, in any workable combination, falls within the scope of
example embodiments.
[0182] System:
[0183] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system 10 (or simply "system 10") is presented. In
the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting pocket hole
jig system 10 has a forward side 12, a rearward side 14, a top side
16, a bottom side 18, a left side 20 and a right side 22.
[0184] Self-adjusting pocket hold jig system 10 is formed of any
suitable size, shape and design and is configured facilitate quick
and easy and secure clamping of workpieces 24 of various thickness
as well as various sizes and shapes. In one arrangement, as is
shown, self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 includes a base 26
having a lower portion 28 and a backstop 30 among other parts,
components and features as are described herein. In one
arrangement, as is shown, self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
includes an upright assembly 32 having a center support 34 and
opposing covers 36 among other parts, components and features as
are described herein. In one arrangement, as is shown,
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 includes a clamping
assembly 38 having an upper link 40 and a lower link 42, a handle
44 connected to the upper link 42, a clutch housing 46 having at
least one clutch plate 48 connected to the upper link 42, a first
return spring 50 and a second return spring 52, among other parts,
components and features as are described herein. In one
arrangement, as is shown, self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
includes a clamp force adjustment mechanism 54 having a knob 56, a
rotating rod 58, and a camp surface 60, among other parts,
components and features as are described herein. In one
arrangement, as is shown, self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
includes a drill guide assembly 62 having a main body 64 with a
pair of arms 66, an opening 68 in the main body, a pair of spring
biased members 70 that facilitate attachment and removal of a drill
guide block 72 having a clamping face 74 and a plurality of drill
guides 76 that define bores 78 that extend through the clamping
face 74 at an angle, among other parts, components and features as
are described herein.
[0185] Workpiece:
[0186] In the arrangement shown, self-adjusting pocket hole jig
system 10 is used to form pocket holes in a workpiece 24. Workpiece
24 may be formed of any size, shape and design. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, workpiece 24 is a generally planar shaped
piece of material that may be formed of wood, plywood, composite
wood, plastic, MFD (medium density fiberboard) or any other
material. Workpiece 24 may be a solid piece of wood, or it may be a
composite piece of wood or other material. Workpiece 24 may be a
large planar member, such as a four-by-eight sheet of plywood, or
it may be a narrow and small member such as a piece of face-frame,
or workpiece 24 may be anything in-between. Work piece 24 may be
thick, such as one and a half inches thick, such as a two-by-four,
or thicker, or it may be as narrow as half an inch, or thinner.
Essentially workpiece 24 may be formed of any size, shape and
design and configuration.
[0187] Base:
[0188] In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system 10 includes a base 26. Base 26 may be formed
of any size, shape and design and is configured to receive and hold
clamping assembly 38 as well as facilitate stable placement of
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 on a work surface as well
as facilitate clamping of workpiece 24 therein.
[0189] In the arrangement shown, as one example, base 26 when
viewed from the side is formed of a generally L-shaped member
having lower portion 28 and a backstop 30 that are joined together
and extend in approximate perpendicular alignment to one another.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower portion 28 and a
backstop 30 have generally planar opposing sides 80 that extend in
approximate parallel spaced relation to one another.
[0190] In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower portion 28
includes a rearward end 82 that is generally flat and planar in
shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed
by rearward end 82 extends in approximate perpendicular alignment
to the planes of sides 80 of base 26. In the arrangement shown, as
one example, the outward ends of rearward end 82 connect to the
rearward end of sides 80.
[0191] In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower portion 28
includes a resting surface 84. Resting surface 84 is configured to
engage and support an end of a workpiece 24 thereon when the
workpiece 24 is clamped against backstop 30. To facilitate support
of workpiece 24, resting surface 84 forms a generally flat and
planar upper surface of lower portion 28 at the forward end of
lower portion 28. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the
plane formed by resting surface 84 extends in approximate
perpendicular alignment to the planes formed by sides 80. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, the outward ends of resting
surface 84 connect to the sides 80, the forward end of resting
surface 84 connects to backstop 30, and the rearward end of resting
surface 84 connects to step 86.
[0192] In the arrangement shown, as one example, step 86 forms a
generally flat and planar surface that extends in approximate
perpendicular alignment to the plane formed by resting surface 84.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, step 86 forms a generally
flat and planar surface that also extends in approximate
perpendicular alignment to the planes formed by opposing sides 80.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, the depth or thickness of
lower portion 28 is greater forward of step 86, and the depth or
thickness of lower portion 28 is less rearward of step 86. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, step 86 connects at its upper
end to the rearward end of resting surface 84, step 86 connects at
its outward sides to sides 80, and step 86 connects at its lower
end to the forward end of platform 88.
[0193] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a platform 88 is
positioned rearward of step 86. Platform 88 forms a generally flat
and planar surface that extends in approximate parallel alignment
to the plane formed by resting surface 84. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, the plane formed by platform 88 extends in
approximate perpendicular alignment to the plane formed by step 86.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed by
platform 88 extends in approximate perpendicular alignment to the
plane formed by opposing sides 80. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, platform 88 connects at its forward end to the lower end
of step 86, platform 88 connects at its outward sides to sides 80,
and platform 88 connects at its rearward end to the upper end of
rearward end 82.
[0194] In the arrangement shown, as one example, platform 88 of
lower portion 28 includes a slot 90 therein. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, slot 90 is generally centrally positioned
within lower portion 28 when viewed from above or below and extends
the majority of the distance between rearward end 82 and step 86.
Slot 90 is configured to receive and hold the lower end of center
support 34 of upright assembly 32 therein so as to facilitate
secure attachment of center support 34 to base 26. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, once the lower end of center
support 34 is inserted into slot 90, the lower end of center
support 34 is screwed or bolted to the lower portion 28 of base 26
using one or more fasteners that extend laterally through holes 92
in lower portion 28 of base 26, as well as through the lower end of
center support 34 held within slot 90, thereby securely attaching
the lower end of center support 34 to lower portion 28 of base
26.
[0195] In the arrangement shown, as one example, platform 88 also
includes a plurality of through holes 94 therein. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, through holes 94 are positioned
just inward of each corner of platform 88 when viewed from above or
below and extend vertically through lower portion 28 of base 26.
Through holes 94 are configured to receive fasteners therein that
are configured to extend through and attach a platform of the lower
end of upright assembly 32 to the platform 88 of lower portion 28
of base 26 thereby securely attaching the lower end of upright
assembly 32 to lower portion 28 of base 26.
[0196] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lower side 98
of lower portion 28 forms a generally flat and planar surface that
is configured to facilitate stable support when the lower side 98
of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is placed on a flat
work surface to be used in a vertical manner. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, the generally flat planar surface of lower
side 98 of lower portion 28 is formed by a lower end of a plurality
of structural supports 100 that extend across and throughout the
base 26, including lower portion 28 as well as backstop 30. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed by lower side
98 extends in approximate parallel spaced relationship to the
planes of resting surface 84 and platform 88. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, the plane formed by lower side 98 extends in
approximate perpendicular alignment to the plane formed by sides 80
as well as the plane formed by rearward end 82.
[0197] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a receiver 102 is
approximately centrally positioned at the intersection of step 86
and platform 88. Receiver 102 is formed of any suitable size, shape
and design and is configured to receive and hold onto the lower end
of first return spring 50 of clamping assembly 38. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, receiver 102 includes a
generally cylindrical collar 104 that extends upward and rearward
at an angle away from backstop 30 of base 26. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, a cross-shaped member 106 extends upward and
rearward from the upper end of the collar. In this arrangement, the
upper surface of collar 104 is configured to receive and engage the
lower end of first return spring 50 while the cross-shaped member
106 is configured to extend within the hollow interior of the lower
end of return spring 50, thereby holding it in place. Any other
configuration is hereby contemplated for use for holding first
return spring 50 in place such as a simple post, a circular recess
in lower portion 28 of base 26, or any other connection member.
[0198] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the forward end of
lower portion 28 connects to the lower end of backstop 30.
[0199] In the arrangement shown, as one example, backstop 30
includes a clamping surface 108 that is generally flat and planar
in shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example, clamping
surface 108 faces rearward. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, the plane formed by clamping surface 108 extends in
approximate perpendicular alignment to the planes of sides 80 of
base 26 as well as to the plane formed by resting surface 84. In
the arrangement shown, as one example, the outward ends of clamping
surface 108 connect to the rearward end of sides 80 of backstop 30,
and the lower end of clamping surface 108 connects to the forward
end of resting surface 84. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, clamping surface 108 is configured to engage and support a
forward side of a workpiece 24 when the workpiece 24 is clamped
against backstop 30. To facilitate support of workpiece 24,
clamping surface 108 forms a generally flat and planar rearward
facing surface of backstop 30 at the forward end of resting surface
84. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed by
clamping surface 108 extends in approximate perpendicular alignment
to the plane formed by upper end 110 of backstop 30. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, the upper end of clamping
surface 108 connects to the rearward end of upper end 110.
[0200] In the arrangement shown, as one example, backstop 30
includes an upper end 110 that is generally flat and planar in
shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed
by upper end 110 extends in approximate perpendicular alignment to
the planes of sides 80 of base 26 as well as clamping surface 108.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, the outward ends of upper
end 110 connect to the upper ends of sides 80.
[0201] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the forward side
112 of backstop 30 forms a generally flat and planar surface that
is configured to facilitate stable support when the forward side
112 of backstop 30 of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is
placed on a flat work surface to be used in a horizontal manner. In
the arrangement shown, as one example, the generally flat planar
surface of forward side 112 of lower portion 28 is formed by a
forward end of a plurality of structural supports 100 that extend
across and throughout the base 26, including lower portion 28 as
well as backstop 30. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the
plane formed by forward side 112 of backstop 30 extends in
approximate parallel spaced relationship to the plane formed by
clamping surface 108. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the
plane formed by forward side 112 of backstop 30 extends in
approximate perpendicular alignment to the plane formed by sides 80
as well as the plane formed by upper end 110.
[0202] In this way, the configuration of base 26 facilitates stable
placement of and use of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 in
a vertical manner, when resting on lower side 98. In this way, the
configuration of base 26 facilitates stable placement of and use of
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 in a horizontal manner,
when resting on forward side 112.
[0203] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the distance
between lower side 98 and resting surface 84 is approximately the
thickness of a conventional 2.times.4. Similarly, in the
arrangement shown, as one example, the distance between forward
side 112 and clamping surface 108 is approximately the thickness of
a conventional 2.times.4. As such, a conventional 2.times.4 can be
used to make jigs or other support members when using
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 to drill pocket hole jigs
regardless of whether the self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
is used in a vertical orientation or a horizontal orientation.
[0204] In the arrangement shown, as one example, base 26 is a
formed of a single monolithic member that is formed by any process
such as molding, injection molding, casting, forming, machining, or
through any other manufacturing process. In one arrangement, base
26 is formed of a solid member. In another arrangement, as is
shown, so as to provide the requisite strength while minimizing
weight and material usage, base 26 is skeletonized and includes
structural supports 100 that extends across the lower side 98 and
forward side 112 of base 26. In another arrangement, base 26 is
formed of a plurality of components that are connected to one
another by fastening means such as adhesive, gluing, bolting,
screwing, snap fitting, friction fitting or any other manner or
method or means or the like processes. In one arrangement, base 26
is formed of a plastic or composite material. In another
arrangement, base 26 is formed of a metallic material. In another
arrangement, base 26 is formed of a plastic or composite material
that includes metallic support members that extend through the base
26 thereby providing additional strength and rigidity.
[0205] In the arrangement shown, as one example, upright assembly
32 is connected to base 26.
[0206] Upright Assembly:
[0207] In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system 10 includes an upright assembly 32. Upright
assembly 32 may be formed of any size, shape and design and is
configured to provide support for clamping assembly 38, handle 44
and drill guide assembly 62 and facilitate clamping of workpiece 24
in self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10.
[0208] Center Support: In the arrangement shown, as one example,
upright assembly 32 includes a center support 34. Center support 34
is itself formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is
configured to connect to lower portion 28 of base 26 and to provide
support for upright assembly 32. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, center support 34 is formed of generally planar member
that extends a length between an upper end 114 and a lower end 116.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lower end 116
includes a pair of feet that are laterally spaced from one another
a distance and include a hole 118. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, lower end 116 of center support 34 is configured to be
inserted within slot 90 of lower portion 28 of base 26 and are
configured to receive fasteners, such as screws or bolts, that
extend through a portion of the base 26 thereby rigidly and
securely attaching the lower end 116 of center support 34 to lower
portion 28 of base 26.
[0209] In the arrangement shown, as one example, center support 34
includes a main body 120 that extends between lower end 116 and
upper end 114. In the arrangement shown, as one example, main body
120 has a generally flat and straight and square forward edge and a
generally flat and straight and square rearward edge that extend in
approximate parallel spaced relation to one another from lower end
116 to upper end 114, albeit at an angle to vertical. That is,
while backstop 30 rises generally vertically upward from lower
portion 28 of base 26, main body 120 of center support 34 extends
rearward at an angle as it extends upward from lower portion 28 of
base 26.
[0210] In the arrangement shown, as one example, an arm 122 extends
rearward from main body 120 near the lower end 116 thereby
broadening the stance of the lower end 116 of center support 34
thereby increasing the support for upright assembly 32, and
increasing the surface area of engagement between center support 34
and lower portion 28 of base 26 which enhances strength and
rigidity of upright assembly 32. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, a triangular shaped opening is positioned in the lower
portion of center support 34 between main body 120 and arm 122 to
reduce weight and material usage.
[0211] In the arrangement shown, as one example, an arm 124 extends
forward from the forward side of main body 120 adjacent the lower
end 116 of center support 34 and includes a hole therein. This arm,
and its associated hole, serves as a connection point for the lower
end of second return spring 52.
[0212] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a slot 126 is
positioned in center support 34 adjacent the upper end 114. Slot
126 extends a length in approximate parallel spaced relation with
the length of main body 120 and facilitates connection of
components of clamping assembly 38 to center support 34, while also
allowing vertical movement of these components of clamping assembly
38 relative to the length of slot 126.
[0213] In one arrangement, center support 34 is formed of a solid
metallic material, so as to maximize strength and rigidity and
durability as well as to provide a long useful life. The use of a
solid metallic member for center support 34 also facilitates crisp
and firm locking of clutch plates 48 on center support 34. In some
embodiments, other size shape or design as well as any other
material is hereby contemplated for use for center support 34.
[0214] Upper Link: In the arrangement shown, as one example,
clamping assembly 38 includes an upper link 40. Upper link 40 is
itself formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is
configured to connect to clutch housing 46 on its upper end and to
connect to lower link 42 on its lower end.
[0215] In the arrangement shown, as one example, upper link 40 is
formed of a pair of generally symmetric members wherein one member
is positioned on each side of center support 34. The upper end of
upper link 40 includes a hole 128 that receives clamp force
adjustment mechanism 54 therein. More specifically, in the
arrangement shown, hole 128 in the upper end of upper link 40
receives rod 58 of clamp force adjustment mechanism 54 there
through. Rod 58 of clamp force adjustment mechanism 54 extends
through the hole 128 in the upper end of upper link 40 on each side
of center support 34. Rod 58 also extends through slot 126 in
center support 34, which facilitates constrained of limited upward
and downward movement of the upper end of upper link 40 on center
support 34.
[0216] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the upper end of
upper link 40 is generally rounded when viewed from the side. In
the arrangement shown, as one example, a protrusion 130 extends
upward from the generally rounded upper end of upper link 40 at the
rearward side of upper link 40. This protrusion 130 breaks the
rounded surface of the upper end of upper link 40 as protrusions
130 rise up from and out of the upper end of upper link 40.
Protrusions 130 are configured to engage the lower side of clutch
plates 48. When protrusions 130 engage clutch plates 48 the clutch
plates 48 cannot lock onto center support 34. In contrast, when
protrusions 130 disengage clutch plates 48 the clutch plates lock
onto center support 34. As upper link 40 rotates between an
unclamped position and a clamped position, protrusions 130 move
between engagement with clutch plates 48 and disengagement with
clutch plates 48.
[0217] In the arrangement shown, as one example, arms 132 are
connected to the upper end of upper link 40 and extend forward
therefrom. Arms 132 are configured to engage and hold the upper end
of second return spring 52, such as through insertion of a portion
of second return spring 52 through a hole in the forward end of
arms 132, however any other connection method or manner is hereby
contemplated for use between arms 132 and second return spring 52.
In this way, the upper end of second return spring 52 connects to
the forward end of arms 132 and the lower end of second return
spring 52 connects to arm 124 of center support 34. In this way,
second return spring 52 is stretched between arms 132 of upper link
40 and arm 124 of center support 34 which has the effect of biasing
or pulling the upper end of upper link 40 downward which causes the
handle 44 to naturally move upward when in an unclamped
position.
[0218] In the arrangement shown, as one example, upper link 40 is
formed of a pair of members wherein one member is positioned on
each side of center support 34. The upper end of upper link 40
includes a hole 128 that receives clamp force adjustment mechanism
54 therein. More specifically, in the arrangement shown, hole 128
in the upper end of upper link 40 receives rod 58 of clamp force
adjustment mechanism 54 there through. Rod 58 of clamp force
adjustment mechanism 54 extends through the hole 128 in the upper
end of upper link 40 on each side of center support 34. Rod 58 also
extends through slot 126 in center support 34, which facilitates
constrained of limited upward and downward movement of the upper
end of upper link 40 on center support 34.
[0219] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lower end of
upper link 40 includes a hole 134 that receives a pivot point 136
therein. Pivot points 136 connect the lower end of upper links 40
to the upper end of lower links 42. In this way, pivot point 136
facilitates relative angular rotation of upper links 40 with
respect to lower links 42 around the axis of rotation formed by
pivot point 136.
[0220] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lower end of
upper link 40 includes a stop bar 138 that extends across the
opposing sides of upper link 40 just rearward of hole 134 and pivot
point 136. In the arrangement shown, as one example, stop bar 138
is a cylindrical rod that extends in approximate perpendicular
alignment to the planes formed by upper link 40. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, stop bar 138 extend through holes in each
side of upper link 40 and is locked into place in the holes in
upper link 40. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when
clamping assembly 38 is a clamped position, with handle 44 in a
fully downward position or a fully clamped position, the forward
side of stop bar 138 engages the rearward side of center support
34. This engagement between stop bar 138 and center support 34
defines the over-center condition of a fully clamped position. This
engagement between stop bar 138 and center support 34 prevents the
clamping assembly 38 moving too far forward, which can cause too
much pressure on workpiece 24 and/or can risk breaking components
of system 10.
[0221] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lower end of
upper link 40 includes an extension 140. In the arrangement shown,
as one example, extension 140 extends rearward from the lower end
of upper link 40 and facilitates connection to handle 44 at the
rearward end of extension 140. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, the opposing sides of upper link 40 neck or bend inward
toward one another and connect to one another just before handle 44
connects to upper link 40. In this way, the opposing sides of upper
link 40 join to one another at the rearward end of extension 140
forming upper link 40 into a single joined component. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, the side of extension 140 are
connected to one another by any manner, method or means such as by
stamping, press fitting, friction fitting, screwing, bolting,
gluing, welding, adhering, or by any other manner, method or means
or the like.
[0222] Handle: In the arrangement shown, as one example, handle 44
connects to the rearward end of extension 140 of upper link 40.
Handle 44 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is
configured to facilitate comfortable, easy and ergonomic clamping
and unclamping of the system 10. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, handle 44 is formed of a generally square or rectangular
shaped pad when viewed from above that includes a slightly recessed
upper surface 142. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the
rearward end of handle 44 includes an angled section 144 that
angles downward and outward as it extends away from upper surface
142.
[0223] The large surface area of upper surface 142 provides ample
area to comfortably apply pressure and downward force onto handle
44 and clamping assembly 38 thereby facilitating movement from a
non-clamping position to a clamping position wherein workpiece 24
is clamped between the clamping face 74 of drill guide block 72 and
clamping surface 108 of backstop 30. The down turned angled section
144 provides an easy and comfortable place for a user to grasp
handle 44 and pull upward to move the handle 44 and clamping
assembly 38 form a clamped position to a non-clamped position.
[0224] Handle 44 is connected to extension 140 of upper link 40 by
any manner, method or means such as by stamping, press fitting,
friction fitting, screwing, bolting, gluing, welding, adhering,
molding-onto extension 140, or by any other manner, method or means
or the like.
[0225] Lower Link: In the arrangement shown, as one example,
clamping assembly 38 includes a pair of lower links 42. Lower links
42 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is
configured to connect to the lower end of upper links 40 at their
upper end and connect to arms 66 of drill guide assembly 62 on
their lower end.
[0226] In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower links 42 are
formed of generally planar members that extend from an upper end to
a lower end and includes a hole 146 in each end. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, hole 146 in the upper end of lower links 42
receives a pivot point 136 that connects to hole 134 in the lower
end of upper link 40 and facilitates relative angular rotation of
upper links 40 with respect to lower links 42 around the axis of
rotation formed by pivot point 136.
[0227] In the arrangement shown, as one example, hole 146 in the
lower end of lower links 42 receives a pivot point 146 that
connects to hole 148 in the rearward end of arms 66 of drill guide
assembly 62 and facilitates relative angular rotation of lower
links 42 with respect to arms 66 of drill guide assembly 62. In
this way, movement of lower links 42 facilitates movement of drill
guide assembly 62 along the length of upright assembly 32.
[0228] Clutch Housing: In the arrangement shown, as one example,
clamping assembly 38 includes a clutch housing 46. Clutch housing
46 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is
configured to facilitate movement along the length of upright
assembly 32 and center support 34 while facilitating selective
locking along the length of upright assembly 32 and center support
34 so as to facilitate automatic clamping of workpieces 24 of
various thicknesses.
[0229] In the arrangement shown, as one example, clutch housing 46
includes an upper wall 150 that includes a slot 152 therein that is
sized and shaped to fit over the upper end 114 of center support
34. The plane formed by upper wall 150 extends in approximate
perpendicular alignment to the length of main body 120 of center
support 34. In the arrangement shown, as one example, clutch
housing 46 includes a pair of opposing sides 154 that extend
downward in approximate parallel spaced relation to one another as
they extend downward from the upper wall 150 of clutch housing 46.
Sides 154 extend in approximate parallel spaced relation to the
sides of main body 120 of center support 34. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, clutch housing 46 includes a forward wall
156 and rearward wall 158 that extend downward in approximate
parallel spaced relation to one another as they extend downward
from the upper wall 150 of clutch housing 46. In this way, upper
wall 150, sides 154, forward wall 156 and rearward wall 158 of
clutch housing 46 form a hollow interior that houses and holds
clutch plates 48 and bias member 160 therein. Clutch housing 46
slides along the length of center support 34 between a fully raised
position, or a fully unclamped position, and a fully lowered
position, or a fully clamped position as handle 44 and upper link
40 and lower link 42 themselves move between a fully raised
position, or a fully unclamped position, and a fully lowered
position, or a fully clamped position.
[0230] In the arrangement shown, as one example, clutch housing 46
houses one or more clutch plates 48 within the hollow interior of
clutch housing 46 as well as bias member 160 which applies a spring
bias force upon clutch plates 48 that causes clutch plates 48 to
bind or lock onto center support 34 when the support of the
protrusion 130 of upper link 40 is removed. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, two clutch plates 48 are used which are
placed in parallel relation to one another within the hollow
interior of clutch housing 46, however any number of clutch plates
48 are hereby contemplated for use such as one, two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten or more. The more clutch plates
48 that are used the greater the amount of locking force can be
held by the clutch housing 46. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, when multiple clutch plates 48 are used they are laid on
top of one another in frictional engagement with one another,
however each clutch plate 48 may slide slightly relative to one
another when they are tilted with respect to center support 34.
[0231] In the arrangement shown, as one example, clutch plates 48
are generally planar members that, like upper wall 150 of clutch
housing 46, include slots through their approximate center that
allow center support 34 to extend through clutch plates 48. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, when the plane formed by clutch
plates 48 are in approximate perpendicular alignment to the length
of the center support 34 the clutch plates 48 move freely along the
length of center support 34. In contrast, in the arrangement shown,
as one example, when the plane formed by clutch plates 48 angles
out of perpendicular alignment to the length of the center support
34 the clutch plates 48 lock onto center support 34. This occurs
when the support of the protrusion 130 of upper link 40 is removed,
by rotation of handle 44, thereby allowing bias member 160 to force
one end of clutch plates 48 out of perpendicular alignment with the
length of center support 34. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, bias member 160 is a spring positioned between the lower
surface of upper wall 150 and the upper surface of the
upper-positioned clutch plate 48 that forces the rearward end of
clutch plates 48 downward on a side opposite where protrusion 130
forces clutch plates 48 upward.
[0232] Clamp Force Adjustment Mechanism: In the arrangement shown,
as one example, self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 includes a
clamp force adjustment mechanism 54. Clamp force adjustment
mechanism 54 may be formed of any size, shape and design and is
configured to facilitate user adjustment of clamping force or
clamping pressure that self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
applies on workpieces 24 of various thicknesses. That is,
regardless of the thickness of workpiece 24, self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system 10 will apply approximately the same amount of
clamping force on workpiece 24 by automatically adjusting the
internal components of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 in
response to the thickness of workpiece 24.
[0233] In the arrangement shown, as one example, clamp force
adjustment mechanism 54 includes a knob 56 connected to a rotating
rod 58 that is connected to and/or includes a cam surface 60. In
the arrangement shown, as one example, knob 56 is positioned on an
outward side of covers 36 of upright assembly 32 so as to
facilitate easy adjustment by a user. In the arrangement shown, as
one example, knob 56 and/or rod 58 that knob 56 is connected to
extend through slot 162 in at least one cover 36. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, slot 162 in covers 36 is
positioned adjacent slot 126 in center support 34, in this way, as
clutch housing 46 travels along center support 34, knob 56 is able
to move within slot 162 in covers 36.
[0234] Knob 56 connects to rod 58 which is connected to and/or
includes a cam surface 60. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, rotating rod 58 extends through holes 164 in the lower end
of sides 154 of clutch housing 46 as well as through holes 128 in
the upper end of upper link 40. In this arrangement, rod 58 also
extends through slot 126 in center support 34 thereby connecting
opposing sides 154 of clutch housing 46 while extending through
center support 34. In this way, rod 58 connects knob 56, cam
surface 60, upper ends of upper link 40 of clamping assembly 38 and
sides 154 of clutch housing 46 while also extending through center
support 34.
[0235] In the arrangement shown, as one example, cam surface 60 is
positioned between a stop 166 on the upper side and lower side of
cam surface 60. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cam
surface 60 has a generally circular exterior surface that is
captured between the opposing stops 166 which are positioned on the
upper side and lower side of cam surface 60 within tight and close
tolerances, and in some arrangements in engagement with cam surface
60 while also allowing for the rotation of cam surface 60 between
stops 166. In the arrangement shown, as one example, rod 58 and
knob 56 are connected in an off-center alignment to the circular
exterior surface of cam surface 60 such that when knob 56 and rod
58 are rotated, cam surface 60 rotates between the upper and lower
stops 166. Alternatively, a non-circular lobe maybe used as cam
surface 60. This rotation of cam surface 60, due to the off-center
connection to rod 58 causes the relative position of the upper end
of upper link 40 to change relative to clutch housing 46.
Essentially, rotation of knob 56 causes rotation of cam surface 60
which causes the upper end of upper link 40 of clamping assembly 38
to move up or down, depending on the direction of rotation,
relative to clutch housing 46 and clutch plates 48.
[0236] That is, effectively, rotation of knob 56 in a first
direction lengthens the linkage whereas rotation of knob 56 in a
second direction, opposite the first direction, shortens the
linkage. This lengthening or shortening of the length of the
linkage of clamp force adjustment mechanism 54 affects the clamping
force or clamping pressure applied to workpiece 24.
[0237] As is further described herein, the sooner the protrusion
130 disengages the clutch plates 48 the sooner the clutch plates 48
lock onto the center support 34. The sooner the clutch plates 48
lock onto the center support 34 the greater the distance clamping
assembly 38 travels to go to an over-center clamped position. The
sooner the clutch plates 48 lock onto the center support 34 the
sooner the clamping face 74 of the drill guide block 72 begins
applying a clamping force on workpiece 24. The sooner the clutch
plates 48 lock onto the center support 34 the greater the clamping
force applied to the workpiece 24.
[0238] Thin Portion of Cam Surface: As such, this translates into
when the thinner the portion of cam surface 60 is positioned
between the upper stop 166 and rod 58 the higher the protrusion 130
of upper link 40 relative to clutch housing 46 and clutch plates 48
and therefore the greater the amount of engagement between
protrusion 130 and clutch plates 48. As such, the handle 44 must be
rotated further downward to disconnect protrusion 130 from clutch
plates 48, at which point the clutch plates 48 lock onto the center
support 34. As such, the handle 44 does not have as far to rotate
after disconnection between protrusion 130 and clutch plates 48,
and when clutch plates 48 lock onto center support 34, to go to an
over-center condition. As such, less clamping pressure is applied
to workpiece 24 when clamping assembly 38 is in an over-center
clamping position when a thinner portion of cam surface 60 is
positioned between upper stop 166 and rod 58.
[0239] Thick Portion of Cam Surface: In contrast, as such, this
translates into when the thicker the portion of cam surface 60 is
positioned between the upper stop 166 and rod 58 the lower the
protrusion 130 of upper link 40 relative to clutch housing 46 and
clutch plates 48 and therefore the less the amount of engagement
between protrusion 130 and clutch plates 48. As such, the handle 44
does not rotate as far downward to disconnect protrusion 130 from
clutch plates 48, at which point the clutch plates 48 lock onto the
center support 34. As such, the handle 44 has farther to rotate
after disconnection between protrusion 130 and clutch plates 48,
and when clutch plates 48 lock onto center support 34, to go to an
over-center condition. As such, more clamping pressure is applied
to workpiece 24 when clamping assembly 38 is in an over-center
clamping position when a thicker portion of cam surface 60 is
positioned between upper stop 166 and rod 58.
[0240] As such, in this way, clamp force adjustment mechanism 54
provides infinite adjustment of clamping pressure for workpiece 24.
As knob 56 is rotated in a direction that causes a decrease in the
thickness of the cam surface 60 between rod 58 and upper stop 166
the lesser the amount of clamping pressure because protrusion 130
of upper link 40 disconnects from clutch plates 48 later. As knob
56 is rotated in a direction that causes an increase in the
thickness of the cam surface 60 between rod 58 and upper stop 166
the greater the amount of clamping pressure because protrusion 130
of upper link 40 disconnects from clutch plates 48 sooner.
[0241] In the arrangement shown, as one example, cam surface 60 is
formed of a cylindrical plate positioned on the outward side of
both opposing sides 154 of clutch housing 46 around hole 164. In
this arrangement, each of these cam surfaces 60 are connected to
and rotated by rod 58. In this arrangement, each of these cam
surfaces 60 are captured between opposing upper and lower stops
166. In this way, placing a cam surface 60 on each side 154 of
clutch housing 46 provides balance to clutch housing 46 and
accurate and precise adjustment of clamping pressure. In this way,
placing a cam surface 60 on each side 154 of clutch housing 46
provides accurate and precise adjustment of each side of upper link
40 of clamping assembly 38.
[0242] In the arrangement shown, as one example, only a single knob
56 extends out of one side of clamping assembly 38. In an
alternative arrangement, a knob 56 extends out of both sides of
clamping assembly 38 thereby allowing for adjustment from both
sides.
[0243] In one arrangement, detents are used in association with
knob 56. These detents allow a user to freely rotate knob 56 and
its attached cam surface 60, however these detents provide user
feedback through resistance that help a user understand how far
they have rotated knob 56. These detents also help to hold knob 56
in place once set by a user. In this way, the use of detents in
association with knob 56 provides an easier to use and more
accurate arrangement that better holds the user-set position.
[0244] Covers: In the arrangement shown, as one example,
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 includes a pair of covers
36. Covers 36 may be formed of any suitable size, shape and design
and are configured to cover portions of the upright assembly 32
while also providing additional support for center support 34 as
well as providing support to as well as a surface for drill guide
assembly 62 to slide upon to move between an non-clamping position
to a clamping position and vice versa.
[0245] In the arrangement shown, as one example, upright assembly
32 includes a pair of covers 36 that are approximately symmetric to
one another and connect together along a seamline 168 that extends
along the approximate forward-to-back center of clamping assembly
38. In this way, when opposing left and right covers 36 are joined
together they form a hollow interior 170 that houses and holds
center support 34, clutch housing 46 and other portions of clamping
assembly 38 and clamp force adjustment mechanism 54 as is shown and
described herein. That is, the generally symmetric or mirror-image
covers 36 join together along seamline 168 in a clamshell like
manner.
[0246] In the arrangement shown, as one example, covers 36 include
a forward side 172 and an opposing rear side 174, exterior sides
176, an upper side 178 and a platform 180 at their lower end. In
the arrangement shown, as one example, the forward side 172 is
generally flat and planar and extends in approximate parallel
spaced relation to the forward side of main body 120 of center
support 34. In this way, the flat and planar forward side 172 of
the joined covers 36 serves as a sliding surface for the rearward
side of drill guide assembly 62 to slide over as it moves between a
non-clamping position and a clamping position.
[0247] In the arrangement shown, as one example, platform 180 is
connected to the lower end of covers 36. Platform 180 is formed of
any suitable size shape and design and is configured to connect to
base 26 in a rigid and stable manner so as to added stability to
upright assembly 32. In the arrangement shown, as one example,
platform 180 is a generally planar member that includes a plurality
of through holes 182 therein. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, when covers 36 are joined together, the combined platforms
180 form a generally square or rectangular peripheral edge when
viewed from above or below that is configured to fit on platform 88
of lower portion 28 of base 26. In the arrangement shown, through
holes 82 of platform 180 of covers 36 match up with through holes
94 in platform 88 of lower portion 28 of base 26. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, covers 36 are installed on base
26 by aligning the through holes 182 in platforms 180 of covers 36
with the through holes 94 of platform 88 of lower portion 28 of
base 26. Once in this alignment, fasteners, such as screws or bolts
or the like are passed through the through holes 182 in platform
180 of covers 26 and into the through holes 94 of platform 88 of
lower portion 28 of base 26. When installed in this manner,
platform 180 of covers 36 are in frictional planar engagement with
platform 88 of lower portion 28 of base 26.
[0248] In the arrangement shown, as one example, opposing covers 36
include a plurality of through holes 184 that are used to join
opposing covers 36. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when
covers 36 are installed around center support 34, clutch housing 46
and the other internal components of system 10, and opposing covers
36 connect to one another along seamline 168, through holes 184 in
opposing covers 36 align with one another. Once in this alignment,
fasteners, such as screws or bolts or the like are passed through
the through holes 184 in opposing covers 26 thereby joining
opposing covers 36 in a locked arrangement. Affixing opposing
covers 36 to one another also helps to hold and secure the internal
components of upright assembly 32 between coves 36. As one example,
the upper end 114 of center support 34 is held within supports 186
on the interior surfaces of covers 36 thereby securely locking the
upper end 114 of center support 34 in place within covers 36. The
connection of opposing covers 36 to one another as well as to
center support 34 as well as to base 26 increases the strength and
rigidity of upright assembly 32.
[0249] In the arrangement shown, as one example, when covers 36 are
joined together they form a forward slot 186 in their forward side
172 that receives and allows arms 66 of drill guide assembly 62 to
extend there through and allows for vertical motion of drill guide
assembly 62 relative to upright assembly 32. In the arrangement
shown, as one example, when covers 36 are joined together they form
a rearward slot 188 in their rearward side 174 that receives and
allows the extension of upper links 40 and/or lower links 42 of
clamping assembly 38 to extend there through and allows for
rotational motion of upper links 40 and/or lower links 42 therein.
As handle 44 is moved upward or downward portions of upper links 40
and/or lower links 42 move through rearward slot 188 thereby
facilitating clamping and unclamping. In the arrangement shown, as
one example, covers 36 include a slot 162 in their exterior sides
176 that receives clamp force adjustment mechanism 54 and allows
the components of clamp force adjustment mechanism 54 that extend
through slot 162 to vertically move as clutch housing 46 vertically
moves as handle 44 is moved upward or downward as upper links 40
and/or lower links 42 move thereby facilitating clamping and
unclamping.
[0250] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a flange 190
extends outward past sides 176 at the forward side 172 of covers
36. In this way, flanges 190, which extend outward from each side
of the forward side 172 of covers 36 expands the surface area of
the forward side 172 of upright assembly 32. Flanges 190 also form
a lip that extends past sides 176 which is grasped by drill guide
assembly 62. That is, flanges 190 facilitate a connection point for
drill guide assembly 62 and help to hold drill guide assembly 62
onto the forward side 172 of upright assembly 32 while also
allowing drill guide assembly 62 to slide along forward side 172 of
upright assembly 32. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when
viewed along the length of flanges 190, flanges 190 have a
relatively square or rectangular shape that extends past forward
side 172 and sides 176.
[0251] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lower end of
center support 34 extends into base 26. In an alternative
arrangement, a perpendicular member is connected to the lower end
of center support 34 that provides increased surface area for the
lower end of center support 34 to engage base 26. This also allows
for the lower end of center support 34 to be placed on a work bench
or other work surface without having to cut out an area for the
lower protrusions of center support 34. This makes it easier to use
the upright assembly 32 in a standalone manner separated from a
dedicated base 26. This also allows users to make custom jigs out
of a plurality of upright assemblies 32, such as when manufacturing
cabinetry or furniture.
[0252] Drill Guide Assembly:
[0253] In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system 10 includes a drill guide assembly 62. Drill
guide assembly 62 may be formed of any size, shape and design and
is configured to move along upright assembly 38 by way of operation
of clamping assembly 38 and handle 44 so as to facilitate clamping
of workpiece 24 and drilling of pocket holes in workpiece 24. In
the arrangement shown, as one example, drill guide assembly 62
includes a main body 64 having arms 66 and an opening 68 therein as
well as spring biased members 70 as well as other components and
features as is described herein.
[0254] In the arrangement shown, as one example, main body 64 is
formed of a pair of halves 192 that are approximately symmetric to
one another and connect together to one another at a generally
centrally positioned seamline 194. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, side members 196 are connected to the outward sides of
halves 192. Side members 196 are formed of any suitable size, shape
and design and are configured to enclose the outward end of halves
192. Halves 192 and side members 196 may be connected to one
another by any manner, method or means such as screwing, bolting,
welding, gluing, adhering, snap fitting, friction fitting or the
like or any combination thereof.
[0255] In the arrangement shown, as one example, side members 196
include an opening 198 that is positioned slightly upward and
forward from opening 68 that extends through side members 196 as
well as halves 192. Opening 198 is configured to hold spring biased
members 70 therein. In the arrangement shown, as one example,
spring biased members 70 are include a cover 200 that fits within
the interior side of opening 198 and a biasing member 202 that is
positioned between the interior surface of cover 200 and the
outward facing side of the halve 192 that cover 200 is associated
with. In the arrangement shown, as one example, biasing member 202
is a spring that provides a bias force that forces cover 200
outward. However, user applied pressure may move cover 200 inward
when the spring bias force of biasing member 200 is overcome. In
one arrangement, the rearward end of cover 200 connects to side
members 196 by a pair of opposed pivot points 201 on the upper end
lower ends of cover 200 that facilitate pivoting of the forward end
of cover 200 on the axis of rotation formed by the connection of
pivot points 201 to side members 196. This arrangement also allows
for some mechanical advantage over biasing member 202 and
facilitates the inward motion of the forward end of covers 200 upon
rotation on pivot points 201.
[0256] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the forward end of
cover 200 includes at least one lip 204 that includes a feature 206
thereon that is configured to selectively attach to and hold drill
guide block 72 to the forward end of drill guide assembly 62. In
the arrangement shown, as one example, lip 204 of cover 200 extends
forward from the upper forward end of main body 64 and feature 206
is positioned at the forward end of lip 204. This arrangement is
configured to allow drill guide block 72 to lock onto the main body
62 of drill guide assembly 62 upon installation and prevents
unintentional disassembly or separation of drill guide block 72
from main body 64 of drill guide assembly 62. That is, when drill
guide block 72 is installed onto drill guide assembly 62 the shape
or angled surfaces of features 206 cause covers 200 to move inward
against the bias force of biasing member 202 until the feature 206
clears a corresponding feature 208 on drill guide block 72, at
which point the bias force of bias member 202 pushes cover 200
outward thereby locking drill guide block 72 onto drill guide
assembly 62.
[0257] To remove drill guide block 72 from drill guide assembly 62
a user applies inward pressure against opposing covers 200 of
spring bias members 70 thereby overcoming the bias force of biasing
members 202. Upon overcoming the biasing force of biasing members
202, covers 200 move inward. Once the feature 206 of lips 204 of
covers 200 clear the corresponding feature 208 of drill guide block
72, drill guide block 72 may be removed from drill guide assembly
62. In this way, drill guide assembly 62 provides a quick and easy
and convenient way to install and remove various drill guide blocks
72 without tools and by hand only. Swapping out drill guide blocks
72 allows for the use of different drill guide blocks 72 for
different applications and various purposes.
[0258] In the arrangement shown, as one example, opening 68 extends
through drill guide assembly 62 from side-to-side. That is, in the
arrangement shown, as one example, opening 68 extends through
opposing side members 196 as well as opposing halves 192 of main
body 64. In the arrangement shown, as one example, opening 68 is
generally square or rectangular in shape when viewed from the side
and extends in approximately a consistent and continuous manner
through drill guide assembly from side-to-side. However any other
size, shape or configuration of opening 68 is hereby contemplated
for use.
[0259] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a passageway 210
connects to opening 68. In the arrangement shown, as one example,
passageway 210 is generally centrally positioned within the lower
portion of main body 64 of drill guide assembly 62. Passageway 210
forms an open path between the forward side of halves 192 and
connects to opening 68 within drill guide assembly 62. The forward
end of passageway 210 connects to a passageway 212 that connects to
bores 78 of drill guides 76 in drill guide block 72. In this way,
the connection of passageway 212 in drill guide block 72 to
passageway 210 in drill guide assembly 62 provides a path for
woodchips, dust and debris generated during drilling to exit drill
guide assembly 62. This is true even though drill guide assembly 62
is moveable along upright assembly 32.
[0260] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a connection point
214 is positioned at the lower end of the forward side of main body
64. Connection point 214 is formed of any suitable size, shape and
design and is configured to receive a connection point 216 in the
lower end of drill guide block 72. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, connection point 214 is a lip that forms an upwardly
facing recess. In this arrangement, connection point 214 is
configured to receive a protrusion that serves as connection point
216 in drill guide block 72. In this way, the connection point 214
of drill guide assembly 62 receives the connection point 216 in
drill guide block 72 in mating arrangement, while also allowing for
limited rotation of drill guide block 72 relative to drill guide
assembly 62. Once the connection point 216 of drill guide block 72
is received within the connection point 214 of drill guide assembly
62, the upward end of drill guide block 72 is rotated toward drill
guide assembly 62 until the features 206 of covers 200 lock on to
features 208 of drill guide block 72. Once this occurs, the lower
end of drill guide block 72 is secured to drill guide assembly 62
by connection point 214 and the upper outward sides of drill guide
block 72 are secured to drill guide assembly 62 by features 206. In
this way a secure connection is made that holds drill guide
assembly 62 and drill guide block 72 together without the use of
tools in a quick, easy, convenient and secure manner. That is, this
installation may be made by hand only.
[0261] To remove drill guide block 72 from drill guide assembly 62,
covers 200 are depressed inward until the features 206 of covers
200 clear the corresponding features 208 of drill guide block 72 at
which point the upper end of drill guide block 72 is rotated
downward until the connection point 216 of drill guide block 72 is
removed from the connection point 214 of drill guide assembly 62.
In this way, drill guide block 72 may be quickly, easily and
conveniently removed from drill guide assembly 62 by hand only
without the use of tools.
[0262] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the rearward side
of drill guide assembly 62 includes a rear wall 218. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, rear wall 218 is generally flat
and planar and extends at an acute angle to clamping face 74 of
drill guide block 72. That is, when viewed from the side, when the
plane formed by clamping face 72 extends vertically, the plane
formed by rear wall 218 extends at less than ninety degrees. This
angular arrangement is configured to accommodate the angle of the
forward side 172 of covers 36 of upright assembly 32.
[0263] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a pair of slots
220 are positioned at the outward sides of drill guide assembly 62.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, slots 220 are formed by
the rearward end of side members 196 extending past rear wall 218
and then extending inward toward one another a distance before
terminating in a free and unattached end. In the arrangement shown,
as one example, slots 220 extend in parallel spaced relation to the
plane of rear wall 218 and extend uninterrupted from the top end of
drill guide assembly 62 to the lower end of drill guide assembly.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, slots 220 are generally
square or rectangular in shape when viewed from above or below and
are configured to receive the generally square or rectangular
flanges 190 therein within close and tight tolerances while also
allowing for sliding movement of drill guide assembly 62 upon
upright assembly 32.
[0264] In the arrangement shown, as one example, spaced inward a
distance from slots 220, arms 66 extend rearward a distance before
terminating in a free end. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, a pair of arms 66 are spaced a distance from one another
in symmetric fashion to the centerline or seamline 194 of drill
guide assembly 62. These arms 66 extend out of the plane formed by
rear wall 218 in approximate perpendicular alignment to the plane
of rear wall 218. Opposing arms 66 extend in approximate parallel
spaced relation to one another. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, a support member 222 extends across and connects opposing
arms 66 at their upper forward ends thereby providing additional
strength and support.
[0265] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the rearward ends
of arms 66 include a hole 148 therein that extends through opposing
arms 66 in approximate perpendicular alignment to the plane of arms
66. In the arrangement shown, as one example, arms 66 pivotally
connect to the lower end of lower links 42 by inserting a pivot
point 224 through the holes 148 of arms 66 as well as through hole
146 in the lower end of lower link 42 thereby connecting arms 66
and lower links 42 while allowing for relative rotation of arms 66
and lower links 42.
[0266] In the arrangement shown, as one example, when drill guide
assembly 62 is installed onto upright assembly 32, arms 66 extend
through forward slot 186 in forward side 172 of covers 36. In this
position, rear wall 218 of drill guide assembly 62 is positioned in
approximate planar sliding engagement to the plane formed by
forward side 172 of covers 36 of upright assembly 32. In this
position, flanges 190 of covers 36 are received within slots 220 of
drill guide assembly 62. In this arrangement, drill guide assembly
62 may slide up and down along forward side 172 of covers 36 guided
by the planar engagement of rear wall 281 of drill guide assembly
62 with the forward side 172 of covers 36 as well as being guided
by flanges 190 of covers 36 being positioned within slots 220 of
drill guide assembly 62. In this way, drill guide assembly 62 may
move between a non-clamping position to a clamping position along
upright assembly 32.
[0267] Drill Guide Block:
[0268] In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system 10 includes a drill guide block 72. Drill
guide block 72 may be formed of any size, shape and design and is
configured to be attached to and removed from drill guide assembly
62 and includes a clamping face 74 and drill guides 76 having bores
78 therein that facilitate drilling of pocket holes in workpiece
24.
[0269] In the arrangement shown, as one example, drill guide block
72 includes a main body 226 having a clamping face 74 and an upper
wall 228. Drill guides 76 having generally cylindrical bores 78
that extend there through extend at an angle through drill guide
block 72 such that the bore 78 of drill guides 76 intersect upper
wall 228 at their upper end and intersect clamping face 74 at their
lower end.
[0270] In the arrangement shown, as one example, bores 78 include a
passageway 212 therein that extends rearward from bore 78 and
through the main body 226 of drill guide block 72. When drill guide
block 72 is in position on drill guide assembly 62, passageways 212
of bores 78 of drill guide block 72 connect to passageway 210 in
drill guide assembly 62 so as to facilitate the removal of wood
chips, dust and debris generated during drilling.
[0271] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a feature 208 is
positioned adjacent the sides of drill guide block 72 that are
configured to receive and hold feature 206 of drill guide assembly
62 thereby holding drill guide block 72 onto drill guide assembly
62. In the arrangement shown, as one example, a connection point
216 is positioned adjacent the lower end of drill guide block 72
that is configured to engage and hold to connection point 214 of
drill guide assembly 62 thereby holding drill guide block 72 onto
drill guide assembly 62. In this way, the combination of connection
point 214 and connection points 216 of drill guide block 72 enables
the quick, easy, convenient and secure installation of drill guide
block 72 onto drill guide assembly 62. In this way, the combination
of connection point 214 and connection points 216 of drill guide
block 72 enables the quick, easy and convenient removal of drill
guide block 72 from drill guide assembly 62.
[0272] Vacuum Attachment:
[0273] In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system 10 includes a vacuum attachment 230. Vacuum
attachment 230 may be formed of any size, shape and design and is
configured to be attached to and removed from drill guide assembly
62 and facilitates the removal of woodchips, dust and debris
generated during drilling from the drill guide assembly 62 and
drill guide block 72.
[0274] In the arrangement shown, as one example, vacuum attachment
230 includes an end wall 232 that connects at its upper and lower
ends to upper and lower walls 234. End wall 324 also connects at
its forward and rearward ends to forward and rearward walls 236. In
the arrangement shown, as one example, end wall 232 is generally
square or rectangular in shape. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, upper and lower walls 234 extend in approximate parallel
spaced relation to one another, and upper and lower walls 234
extend in approximate perpendicular alignment to end wall 232. In
the arrangement shown, as one example, forward and rearward walls
236 extend in approximate parallel spaced relation to one another,
and forward and rearward walls 236 extend in approximate
perpendicular alignment to end wall 232. In the arrangement shown,
as one example, upper and lower walls 234 extend in approximate
perpendicular alignment to forward and rearward walls 236. In this
way, the combination of end wall 232, upper and lower walls 234 and
forward and rearward walls 236 form a generally square or
rectangular shaped member that is configured to fit within opening
68 of main body 64 of drill guide assembly 62.
[0275] The end of upper and lower walls 234 and forward and
rearward walls 236 opposite end wall 232 is connected to a neck
section 238 that is connected to a collar section 240. Neck section
238 extends in a direction away from end wall 232 and smoothly
converts the generally square or rectangular configuration of upper
and lower walls 234 and forward and rearward walls 236 to the
generally cylindrical shape of collar section. Collar section 240
is a generally elongated cylindrical shaped member that is
configured to receive the end of a conventional vacuum. In this
way, vacuum attachment 230 forms a generally hollow member.
[0276] In the arrangement shown, as one example, one of or both of
forward and rearward walls 236 include a plurality of openings 242
therein that enable the entry of woodchips, dust and debris into
the hollow interior of vacuum attachment 230 which are then removed
under vacuum by a vacuum attached to collar section 240. In an
alternative arrangement, one of or both of forward and rearward
walls 236 are partially or wholly open thereby allowing
unrestricted entry of woodchips, dust and debris into the hollow
interior of vacuum attachment 230.
[0277] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the end of vacuum
attachment 230 having end wall 232 is configured to be inserted
into the opening 68 in either of the sides of drill guide assembly
62. That is, vacuum attachment 230 and drill guide assembly 62 is
ambidextrous. Once vacuum attachment 230 is fully inserted into
opening 68, the end wall 232 covers opening 68 on the side of drill
guide assembly 62 opposite the side of insertion of the vacuum
attachment 230. Once vacuum attachment 230 is fully inserted into
opening 68, vacuum attachment 230 is in position to receive
woodchips, dust and debris generated during drilling of pocket
holes.
[0278] That is, during drilling of pocket holes, a drill bit is
inserted within the bore 78 of at least one drill guide 76 of drill
guide block 72. As the pocket hole is being drilled, woodchips,
dust and debris are generated. The woodchips, dust and debris
generated during drilling passes from bore 78, through passageway
212 in drill guide block 72, through passageway 210 in drill guide
assembly 62 and through the forward wall 236 of vacuum attachment
230. The woodchips, dust and debris then travel through neck
section 238, through collar 240 and out of vacuum attachment 230
under vacuum by an attached vacuum. In this way, a clean,
effective, convenient way of removing woodchips, dust and debris
from drill guide assembly 62.
[0279] Notably, as the drill guide assembly 62 and drill guide
block 72 travel along the angled upright assembly 32 between a
non-clamping position and a clamping position, vacuum attachment
230 travels with the drill guide assembly 62 and drill guide block
72.
[0280] Some embodiments may utilize other sizes, shapes and/or
designs to implement the vacuum attachment 230. In one or more
embodiments, instead of inserting vacuum attachment 230 into
opening 68, vacuum attachment 230 is not inserted into opening 68.
In one arrangement, vacuum attachment 230 attaches to the exterior
of drill guide assembly 62 and covers one of the openings 68 while
the other opening 68 may be covered, the other opening 68 may be
left open, or the other opening 68 may not be present and instead
only a single opening 68 is present.
[0281] In Operation--Example--Thin Workpiece:
[0282] With reference to FIGS. 48-56 an example is presented
wherein self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is used to clamp
and automatically adjust to the thickness of a thin workpiece 24.
In this arrangement, the lower end of workpiece 24 is placed on
resting surface 84 of lower portion 28 of base 26 and the forward
face of workpiece 24 is placed against clamping surface 108 of
backstop 30 of base 26.
[0283] In the arrangement shown in FIG. 48 a fully unclamped
position or a fully non-clamping position is presented. In this
position, handle 44 is in a fully raised position. Drill guide
assembly 62 and drill guide carrier 72 are in a fully raised
positon along upright assembly 32. In a fully unclamped position,
clutch housing 46 is in a fully lowered position such that clutch
housing 46 is positioned adjacent the lower end of slot 162 in
covers 36 as well as slot 126 in center support 34 within the
hollow interior of upright assembly 32.
[0284] In the arrangement shown, in FIG. 48, the axis of rotation
that extends through the intersection of the upper end of upper
links 40 and clutch housing 46 as well as the axis of rotation that
extends through the intersection of the lower end of lower link 42
and arms 66 of drill guide assembly 62 are in alignment with one
another along the centerline of center support 34, which is shown
in a dashed line. In this position, the axis of rotation that
extends through the intersection of the lower end of upper links 40
and the upper end of lower links 42 is positioned well behind the
centerline of center support 34 as well as outside of the hollow
interior 170 of covers 36.
[0285] As is best shown, in the close-up view of FIG. 49, in a
fully unclamped position, the protrusion 130 of the upper end of
upper links 40 engage and push upward upon the lower sides of
clutch plates 48 thereby keeping the clutch plates 48 from locking
onto center support 34.
[0286] From the unclamped or non-clamping position, to clamp
workpiece 24, all the user needs to do is lower handle 44.
[0287] As handle 44 is rotated downward, this causes upper link 40
to rotate on the axis of rotation that extends through the upper
end of upper link 40 and through the lower end of clutch housing
46. As Handle 44 is rotated downward, this causes the lower end of
upper link 40 to move downward as well as causes the lower end of
upper link 40 to rotate upon the axis of rotation that connects the
lower end of upper link 40 to the upper end of lower link 42. As
the handle 44 is rotated downward, the lower end of upper link 40
moves downward which causes the lower end of lower link 42 to move
downward as well.
[0288] As the handle 44 is rotated downward, the lower end of lower
link 42 rotates with respect to arms 66 of drill guide assembly 62
as the drill guide assembly 62 is driven downward. As the drill
guide assembly 62 is driven downward the first return spring 50 is
compressed and pushes against the downward motion of drill guide
assembly 62. As the drill guide assembly 62 is driven downward, the
rear wall 218 of drill guide assembly 62 slides over the forward
side 172 of covers 36 as flanges 190 are held within slots 220 of
drill guide assembly 62. This downward driving of drill guide
assembly 62 continues until the clamping face 74 of drill guide
assembly 62 engages the rearward facing surface of workpiece 24,
which is shown in FIG. 50.
[0289] FIG. 50 shows the point when clamping face 74 of drill guide
assembly 62 engages the rearward facing surface of workpiece 24. At
this point, as is shown in FIG. 50, the axis of rotation that
extends through the intersection of the upper end of upper links 40
and clutch housing 46 as well as the axis of rotation that extends
through the intersection of the lower end of lower link 42 and arms
66 of drill guide assembly 62 are in alignment with one another
along the centerline of center support 34, which is shown in a
dashed line. In this position, the axis of rotation that extends
through the intersection of the lower end of upper links 40 and the
upper end of lower links 42 is positioned slightly behind the
centerline of center support 34.
[0290] As is best shown, in the close-up view of FIG. 51, in this
position, with the clamping face 74 of drill guide block 72 engaged
with the rearward facing surface of workpiece 24, the protrusion
130 of the upper end of upper links 40 continues to engage and push
upward upon the lower sides of clutch plates 48 thereby keeping the
clutch plates 48 from locking onto center support 34. With that
said, when comparing FIG. 49 with FIG. 51, protrusion 130 has
substantially moved rearward with respect to clutch plates 48. As
such, protrusion 130 is nearing the point where protrusion 130
disengages clutch plates 48.
[0291] With reference to FIG. 50, at this point, continued downward
movement of handle 44 causes clamping face 74 to push into
workpiece 24 thereby forcing workpiece 24 into clamping surface
108. As the handle 44 continues to move downward pressure builds
between clamping face 74 and workpiece 24. This pressure builds
between clamping face 74 and workpiece 24 until enough force is
applied by handle 44 that overcomes the amount of force applied by
second return spring 52 which pulls clutch housing 46 downward
along center support 34. Once enough force is applied by handle 44
to overcome the downward pull on clutch housing 46 by second return
spring 52, clutch housing 46 begins to slide upward upon center
support 34. As clutch housing 46 slides upward upon center support
34, second return spring 52 is stretched between its lower
connection point at arm 124 of center support 34 and its upper
connection point at arms 132 which connects to the intersection of
clutch housing 46 and the upper end of upper links 40.
[0292] Clutch housing 46 continues to be driven upward along center
support 34 as the upper end of upper link 40 rotates. As the angle
of upper link 40 changes as the clutch housing 46 moves upward the
relationship between the protrusion 130 of the upper end of upper
links 40 changes with respect to the lower side of clutch plates
48. That is protrusion 130 continues to rotate rearward as the
handle 44 moves downward.
[0293] This continues to a point where protrusion 130 of the upper
end of upper link 40 disengages from clutch plates 48. This point
is approximately shown in FIG. 52 and FIG. 53. When comparing FIG.
50 with FIG. 52, clutch housing 46 has moved higher along center
support 34. As the protrusion 130 of the upper end of upper link 40
disengages from clutch plates 48 the upward support the protrusion
130 provides to the rearward ends of clutch plates 48 is removed.
This upward support provided by protrusion 130 to clutch plates 48
counteracts the downward force applied on the upper side of clutch
plates 48 by the spring of bias member 160. As the support provided
by protrusion 130 is removed, the rearward end of clutch plates 48
is forced downward by bias member 160 until clutch plates 48 lock
onto center support 34. When clutch plates 48 bind or lock onto
center support 34 clutch housing 46 stops moving upward along 34 by
the clutch plates 48 locked onto center support 34.
[0294] FIG. 52 shows the approximate point when protrusion 130
disengages from the lower surface of clamping plates 48. At this
point, as is shown in FIG. 52, the axis of rotation that extends
through the intersection of the upper end of upper links 40 and
clutch housing 46 as well as the axis of rotation that extends
through the intersection of the lower end of lower link 42 and arms
66 of drill guide assembly 62 are in alignment with one another
along the centerline of center support 34, which is shown in a
dashed line. In this position, the axis of rotation that extends
through the intersection of the lower end of upper links 40 and the
upper end of lower links 42 is positioned just barely behind the
centerline of center support 34.
[0295] When clutch housing 46 is locked in place, as handle 44
continues to rotate downward, as the upper end of upper link 44 is
stationary or essentially stationary in place, essentially the only
direction for relative movement is downward and against workpiece
24. That is, once the clutch housing 46 is locked in place the
upper end of upper link 40 is locked in place. As such, as the
handle 44 continues to rotate downward, the lower end of upper link
40 continues to move downward. This downward movement of the lower
end of upper link 40 causes the lower end of lower link 42 to
continue to move downward. This downward movement of the lower end
of lower link 42 causes the drill guide assembly 62 to continue to
move downward, against the increasing pressure provided. This
pressure is applied to workpiece 24 thereby forcing workpiece 24
against backstop 30
[0296] This continues until the handle 44 is moved such that the
axis of rotation between the lower end of the upper link 40 and the
upper end of the lower link 44 move to an over-center condition,
which is shown in FIG. 54 and FIG. 55, at which point stop bar 138
engages the rearward side of center support 34 thereby preventing
any further downward movement of handle 44. In this over-center
condition, upper link 40 and lower link 42 and handle 44 are
naturally held in place as the forces generated through clamping
have a tendency to force stop bar 138 into the rearward side of
center support 34.
[0297] FIG. 54 shows the approximate point when protrusion stop bar
138 engages the rearward side of center support 34 in an
over-center condition of clamping assembly 38. At this point, as is
shown in FIG. 54, the axis of rotation that extends through the
intersection of the upper end of upper links 40 and clutch housing
46 as well as the axis of rotation that extends through the
intersection of the lower end of lower link 42 and arms 66 of drill
guide assembly 62 are in alignment with one another along the
centerline of center support 34, which is shown in a dashed line.
In this position, the axis of rotation that extends through the
intersection of the lower end of upper links 40 and the upper end
of lower links 42 is positioned just forward the centerline of
center support 34--which is an over-center condition.
[0298] When in an over-center condition, clamping face 74 of drill
guide block 72 is in flat and flush and tight engagement with the
rearward face of workpiece 24. This allows a user to easily and
securely drill pocket holes in workpiece 24 through bores 78 formed
by drill guides 76 in drill guide block 72. As the pocket holes are
drilled, woodchips, dust and debris travels through passageways 212
in bores 78 in drill guide block 72 and into the passageway 210 in
drill guide assembly 62 under vacuum applied through vacuum
attachment 230 inserted within an opening 68 in a side of main body
64. The woodchips, dust and debris are pulled into the vacuum
attachment 230 under vacuum and are pulled through the hollow
interior of vacuum attachment 230 and out the collar section 240
thereby removing the woodchips, dust and debris from the drill
guide block 72 and the drill guide assembly 62. This makes the
process of drilling pocket holes cleaner and easier while also
improving the quality of the pocket holes by removing the
interference caused by woodchips, dust and debris generated during
drilling.
[0299] Once drilling is completed, all the user needs to do to
release and remove the workpiece 24 is lift up on the outward end
of handle 44 which causes the upper link 40 and lower link 42 to
move out of an over-center condition as the handle 44 is raised. As
the handle 44 is raised, the protrusion 130 pushes up on the
rearward end of clutch plates 48 and upon overcoming the spring
bias force applied by bias member 160 thereby breaks the locking
engagement between clutch plates 48 and center support 34. Once the
locking engagement between clutch plates 48 and center support 34
is broken, the clutch housing 46 is automatically pulled downward
by the tension of second return spring 52 while the drill guide
assembly 62 is automatically pushed upward by first return spring
50, all while handle 44 is automatically pulled upward by the
combined spring force of first return spring 50 and second return
spring 52. This motion automatically continues, in the reverse
manner described with respect to clamping motion, until the
clamping assembly 38 moves back to a fully unclamped or a fully
non-clamped position, at which point the workpiece 24 may be
removed and the self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is ready
for clamping again in the same way described herein.
[0300] One of the benefits of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
10 is that as the handle 44 is lowered the clamping face 74 of
drill guide block 72 remains vertical, or said another way,
parallel to the rearward facing surface of workpiece 24 throughout
the clamping motion. That is as the handle 44 is lowered with a
single motion the clamping face 74 moves downward and forward while
maintaining a perpendicular alignment to the rearward facing
surface of workpiece 24. In this way, engagement of the clamping
face 74 onto the rearward facing surface of workpiece 24
effectively applies a forward clamping force on the workpiece 24
that is perpendicular to the rearward facing surface of workpiece
24 with little downward force. In this way, the clamping motion of
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 does effectively not
impart a rotational force upon workpiece 24 as does other clamping
systems. In addition, the clamping force of self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system 10 is centered upon the area where bores 78 of
drill guides 76 intersect with workpiece 24 thereby ensuring the
clamping pressure is applied by self-adjusting pocket hole jig
system 10 at the optimal positon to ensure drilling of the most
accurate and clean pocket holes in the safest possible manner.
[0301] One of the benefits of the self-adjusting pocket hole jig
system 10 is that the handle 44 moves only in a single plane. That
is, the user may clamp and unclamp self-adjusting pocket hole jig
system 10 by moving handle 44 downward (for clamping) and upward
(for unclamping) in a single plane. This single plane of motion,
using only handle 44 is easier on the user and more ergonomic. In
addition it is simpler to use and learn as compared to a
multi-movement process, not to mention faster. In addition, the
user may clamp and unclamp by placing their hand on only a single
component, the handle 44, which eliminates the need to grasp and
manipulate multiple devices, as is required by other prior-art
jigs. As such, the speed, comfort and ease of use of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is unmatched.
[0302] In Operation--Example--Thick Workpiece:
[0303] With reference to FIGS. 57-61 an example is presented
wherein self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is used to clamp
and automatically adjust to the thickness of a thick workpiece 24.
In this arrangement, the self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
operates in the same manner described herein, with the difference
being the drill guide assembly 62 engages the workpiece 24 earlier
which is accommodated by the clutch housing 46 moving upward along
center support 34 earlier in the clamping process. In this way,
approximately the same clamping pressure is applied when clamping
both thin or thick workpieces 24, or for that matter, approximately
the same clamping pressure is applied to any thickness of workpiece
24 automatically by way of automatic internal adjustments made
automatically within the self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
without user intervention. That is, the user experience as it
applies to clamping is practically identical for clamping any sized
workpiece 24 and requires no user adjustments.
[0304] As such, FIG. 48 and FIG. 49 is similar to FIG. 57; FIG. 50
and FIG. 51 is similar to FIG. 58; FIG. 52 and FIG. 53 is similar
to FIG. 59; FIG. 54 and FIG. 55 is similar to FIG. 60; and FIG. 56
is similar to FIG. 61. The close-up views of FIGS. 49, 51, 53 and
55, are not repeated for the thick clamping example as the teaching
as it applies to the position of protrusion 130 is functionally
similar albeit with a different position of components along the
length of center support 34.
[0305] The only user adjustment that may be made to adjust
operation of the self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is
rotation of knob 56 of clamp force adjustment mechanism 54 which
increases or decreases the clamping pressure applied to workpieces
24. The adjusted clamping pressure as set by rotation of knob 56 of
clamp force adjustment mechanism 54 is then applied to all
workpieces 24 of any thickness without any further user
adjustment.
[0306] Grippy Material:
[0307] In one arrangement, some or all of the surfaces of system 10
that engage workpiece 24 are partially or wholly covered by a
compressible material that has a high coefficient of friction or a
non-compressible material that has a high coefficient of friction.
This material with a high coefficient of friction is referred to
herein as a grippy material and helps to hold workpiece 24 in place
within jig 10 as well as reduces the amount of clamping pressure
required to adequately hold workpiece 24 in place. This is because
this grippy material has a high coefficient of friction making it
less likely that workpiece 24 will slide or shift after being
clamped and during the drilling process.
[0308] In one arrangement this grippy material with a high
coefficient of friction covers some or the entire upward facing
resting surface 84 of lower portion 28 of base 26, the rearward
facing clamping surface 108 of back stop 30 of base 26 and/or the
clamping face 74 of drill guide block 72. The entirety of these
surfaces may be covered by a grippy material or alternatively only
a portion of these surfaces may be covered by a grippy material.
The grippy material may be added on top of these surfaces by
gluing, adhering, spraying, sticking or otherwise by adding the
grippy material by any other manner, method or means.
Alternatively, the grippy material may be formed into these
surfaces during manufacturing such as through dual durometer
molding or otherwise by adding the grippy material by any other
manner, method or means.
[0309] Alternative Arrangement--Benchtop Arrangement:
[0310] FIGS. 1-61 show an embodiment of self-adjusting pocket hole
jig system 10 that includes base 26 that is attached to, and
integral with, upright assembly 32. In an alternative arrangement,
it is hereby contemplated that self-adjusting pocket hole jig
system 10 may be used without base 26. In this arrangement, upright
assembly 32 is installed onto another component, such as a benchtop
or work bench, that serves as base 26 having a horizontal portion
and a vertical portion that serve as lower portion 28 and back stop
30 of base 26 as is shown herein. Once upright assembly 32 is
installed onto such as benchtop or work bench, the self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system 10 operates in the manner described herein.
In one arrangement, to facilitate easier installation of upright
assembly 32 onto a benchtop, the lower surface of platform 180 is
flat so as to easily install onto a benchtop such as by the
insertion of screws or bolts through the through holes 182 in the
corners of platform 180 and into the benchtop.
[0311] Alternative Arrangement--Automaxx Self-Adjusting Clamping
Mechanism:
[0312] With reference to FIGS. 62-74 an alternative arrangement of
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is presented. This
alternative arrangement presented in FIGS. 62-74 is similar to the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is presented in FIGS.
1-61, and therefore, unless specifically stated otherwise, the
teachings presented herein apply to the embodiment presented in
FIGS. 62-74.
[0313] In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system 10 utilizes a self-adjusting clamping
mechanism 244 similar to that presented in Applicant's U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/188,151 entitled Self-Adjusting Clamp
System filed on Jun. 21, 2016 and published as US 2016-0368119 A1
on Dec. 22, 2016 which is fully incorporated by reference herein.
This product is sold by Applicant under the trademark Automaxx. In
this arrangement, as one example, self-adjusting clamping mechanism
244 includes a wedge lock 246 and an activator wedge 248 which are
separated by a separation plate 250 such as that presented in the
incorporated by reference patent application. The self-adjusting
clamping mechanism 244 self-adjusts and facilitates clamping in the
manner described by the incorporated by reference patent
application in association with the modifications presented herein
with the association of clamping assembly with upper link 40, lower
link 42, handle 44, base 26 and drill guide assembly 62 and drill
guide block 72 as well as the other features and components
presented and described and shown herein.
[0314] Alternative Arrangement--Ratcheting Self-Adjusting Clamping
Mechanism:
[0315] With reference to FIGS. 75-89 an alternative arrangement of
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is presented. This
alternative arrangement presented in FIGS. 75-89 is similar to the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is presented in FIGS.
1-74, and therefore, unless specifically stated otherwise, the
teachings presented herein apply to the embodiment presented in
FIGS. 75-89.
[0316] In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system 10 utilizes a self-adjusting clamping
mechanism 252 that interacts with a ratchet surface 254 in an
interior side 256 of the forward wall 258 of upright assembly 32
opposite forward side 172. In this arrangement, as one example,
self-adjusting clamping mechanism 252 includes a carrier 260 that
slides up and down within upright assembly 32 and includes a clutch
member 262 that interacts with teeth of the ratchet surface 254
positioned on the interior side 256 of forward wall 258. The
self-adjusting clamping mechanism 252 self-adjusts and facilitates
clamping in a similar manner to that described herein with the
clamping assembly 32 having an upper link 40, lower link 42, handle
44, base 26 and drill guide assembly 62 and drill guide block 72 as
well as the other features and components presented and described
and shown herein with the addition that upon clamping, the lower
end of clutch member 262 pivots forward under the force of
protrusion 130 at the upper end of upper link 40 and engages at
least one tooth of the ratchet surface 254 with at least one tooth
of its own thereby locking the carrier 260 in position along
upright assembly 32.
[0317] Alternative Arrangement--Spring and Tube Self-Adjusting
Clamping Mechanism:
[0318] With reference to FIGS. 90-103 an alternative arrangement of
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is presented. This
alternative arrangement presented in FIGS. 90-103 is similar to the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is presented in FIGS.
1-89, and therefore, unless specifically stated otherwise, the
teachings presented herein apply to the embodiment presented in
FIGS. 90-103.
[0319] In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting
pocket hole jig system 10 utilizes a self-adjusting clamping
mechanism 264 having a cylindrical tube 266 with a spring 268
positioned around tube 266 and constrained between an upper stop
surface 270 and a lower stop surface 272. A collar 274 is connected
to the upper end of upper link 40. Collar 274 is positioned above
lower stop surface 272 and the lower end of spring 268. Spring 268
is constrained between the upper surface of collar 274 and the
upper stop surface 270. In one arrangement, a second spring 276,
like first return spring 50 is used to force drill guide assembly
62 upward to a non-clamping position.
[0320] In this arrangement, as handle 44 is lowered after workpiece
24 is engaged, collar 274 begins to move upward along tube 266
until protrusion 130 engages the side of tube 266 at a slightly
over-center condition thereby clamping and locking workpiece 24 in
place between clamping face 74 and backstop 30.
[0321] Alternative Arrangement:
[0322] With reference to FIG. 105-123 an alternative arrangement of
a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 is presented. This
alternative arrangement of a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system
10 presented in FIG. 105 through FIG. 123 is similar to the
configuration of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 presented
in FIG. 1 through FIG. 61. For this reason, unless specifically
stated otherwise, all of the teaching and disclosure presented with
respect to the arrangement presented in FIG. 1 through FIG. 61
applies equally to the arrangement presented in FIG. 105 through
FIG. 123. In addition, unless specifically stated otherwise, while
the embodiments are different, all of the teaching and disclosure
presented with respect to the arrangements presented in FIG. 62-104
apply equally to the arrangement presented in FIG. 105-123.
[0323] The alternative arrangement presented in FIG. 105-123 is a
revision to the arrangement presented in FIG. 1 through FIG.
61.
[0324] Grippy Material:
[0325] In one arrangement, some or all of the surfaces of
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 that engage workpiece 24
are partially or wholly covered by a compressible material that has
a high coefficient of friction. This compressible material with a
high coefficient of friction helps to hold workpiece 24 in place
within self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 as well as reduces
the amount of clamping pressure required to adequately hold
workpiece 24 in place. This is because this grippy material has a
high coefficient of friction making it less likely that workpiece
24 will slide or shift after being clamped.
[0326] In one arrangement, this compressible material and/or
material having a high coefficient of friction, covers some or all
of the upper surface or resting surface 84 of lower portion 28 of
base 26, the clamping surface 108 of backstop 30, and/or the
clamping face 74 of drill guide block 72 or any combination
thereof. In contrast, the material that forms the underlying
components, e.g. base 26, lower portion 28, backstop 30, drill
guide block 72, is formed of a hard and rigid and durable material,
such as a plastic, nylon, metal or the like. While these hard,
rigid and durable materials provide a strong jig 10, they do not
have a high coefficient of friction. As such, additional clamping
pressure is required to secure workpiece 24 in place. The addition
of a grippy material having a higher coefficient of friction as
compared to the underlying material of jig 10 reduces the clamping
pressure required to secure the workpiece 24.
[0327] This grippy material may be molded onto jig 10, formed as
part of jig 10, adhered to jig 10, sprayed on jig 10, deposited on
jig 10, connected to jig 10 or added in any other manner, method or
means or any combination thereof. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, this grippy material is added as a grip pad 300 placed on
clamping surface 108 that covers most of clamping surface 108 of
backstop 30. In this way, when a workpiece 24 is clamped in place,
drill guide block 72 forces workpiece 24 against grip pad 300. The
high coefficient of friction of grip pad 300 helps to hold
workpiece 24 in place. The presence of grip pad 300 provides
greater grip at the same clamping force as compared to grip pad 300
or grippy material not being present and instead the workpiece 24
engaging the hard, rigid and durable underlying material of jig
10.
[0328] Clamp Recess 302:
[0329] In the arrangement shown, as one example, with reference to
FIG. 105 through FIG. 123 self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
includes one or more clamp recesses 302. Clamp recess 302 is formed
of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to receive
a portion of a clamp, such as a conventional C-clamp, project
clamp, or any other form of a clamp, therein so as to facilitate
clamping of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 to a work
surface, such as a table, bench, board, sawhorse, or the like.
[0330] In the arrangement shown, as one example, clamp recess 302
is a t-shaped slot or a square-shaped opening or a rectangular
shaped opening, or any other opening that extends inward a distance
into self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 and receives a
portion of a clamp therein that facilitates clamping of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 in place. This clamp
recess 302 is configured to receive an arm of a clamp therein
thereby allowing jig system 10 to be clamped to a work surface in a
convenient, easy, simple, safe and secure manner. Further
information regarding clamp recess 302 is more fully presented in
Applicant's U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/950,189
filed Dec. 19, 2019, entitled: "DOCKING STATION SYSTEM" which is
fully incorporated by reference herein. However, other sizes, shape
and design is hereby contemplated for use as clamp recess 302
[0331] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a clamp recess 302
is positioned in the rearward end 82 of lower portion 28 of base
26. This clamp recess 302 enables self-adjusting pocket hole jig
system 10 to be clamped from its rearward end in an upright manner.
This is useful for drilling on small to medium sized workpieces
24.
[0332] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a clamp recess 302
is positioned in the forward end of lower portion 28 of base 26 at
the intersection of lower portion 28 of base 26 and backstop 30 of
base 26. This clamp recess 302 enables self-adjusting pocket hole
jig system 10 to be clamped from its forward end in an upright
manner. This is useful for drilling on small to medium sized
workpieces 24.
[0333] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a clamp recess 302
is positioned in the upper end 110 of backstop 30 of base 26. This
clamp recess 302 enables self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
to be clamped from its forward end in a horizontal manner as
compared to clamping using the other clamp recesses 302 in lower
portion 28 of base 26. That is, using clamp recess 302 in the upper
end 110 of backstop 30 of base 26 allows for self-adjusting pocket
hole jig system 10 to be clamped in a 90.degree. orientation as
compared to using the other clamp recesses 302 in the lower portion
28 of base 26. This is useful for drilling on large or long
workpieces 24 such as large sheets of plywood and long lengths of
dimension lumber.
[0334] Wings 304:
[0335] In the arrangement shown, as one example, with reference to
FIG. 105 through FIG. 123 self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
includes one or more wings 304. Wings 304 are formed of any
suitable size, shape and design and are configured to move between
a retracted position, wherein wings 304 are tucked into the sides
80 of lower portion 28 of base 26, and an extended position,
wherein wings 304 are extended or pivoted outward from the sides 80
of lower portion 28 of base 26. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, a wing 304 is connected to each side 80 of the lower
portion 28 of base 26 adjacent the resting surface 84. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, the upper surface 306 of wings
304 extend in a generally flat and flush parallel planar alignment
to the resting surface 84 of lower portion 28 of base 26. In this
way, regardless whether wings 304 are extended or retracted the
upper surface 306 of wings 304 are flat and flush with the resting
surface 84 of lower portion 28 of base 26. In this way, the
presence of wings 304 does not disturb the resting surface 84 of
lower portion 28 of base 26, and instead, the presence of wings 304
can extend the resting surface 84 of lower portion 28 of base
26.
[0336] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the forward end
308 of wings 304 connect to the lower portion 28 of base 26 at a
pivot point. This connection of wings 304 to lower portion 28 of
base 26 at a pivot point at forward end 308 allows wings 304 to
rotate between a retracted position, wherein wings 304 are tucked
in along the sides 80 of lower portion 28 of base 26, and an
extended position, wherein wings 304 are extended in an approximate
perpendicular alignment to the forward-to-back length of lower
portion 28 of base 26.
[0337] In this extended positon, the upper surface 306 of wings 304
extend the support for workpiece 24 out to the side of lower
portion 28 of base 26 the length of wings 304. This provides
additional support for longer workpieces 24.
[0338] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a plurality of
supports 310 extend downward from upper surface 306 of wings 304
and establish a plane at their lower end that wings 304 rest upon
when placed on a work surface such as a bench, table or the like.
In this way, supports 310 provide strength and rigidity to wings
304 as well as stability to wings 304.
[0339] In the arrangement shown, as one example, recess 312 is
placed just rearward of the rearward end 314 of wings 304 in the
side 80 of lower portion 28 of base 26. This recess 312 is
configured to allow a user to place their finger or a tool into
contact with the rearward end 314 of wing 304 so as to move wing
304 from a retracted position to an extended position. To move wing
304 from a retracted position to an extended positon, as well as to
move wing 304 from an extended position to a retracted position,
the wing 304 may simply be rotated into position upon the pivot
point established by the connection between lower portion 28 of
base 26 and forward end 308 of wing 304. As such, extending and
retracting wings 304 is quick, easy and user friendly.
[0340] In one of more embodiments, the connection between the
forward end 308 of wings 304 and lower portion 28 of base 26 has
sufficient friction to hold wing 304 in the user-set extended
position. That is, wings 304 remain in an extended positon until a
user moves them to a retracted position. Similarly, in the
arrangement shown, as one example, the connection between the wings
304 and lower portion 28 of base 26 has sufficient friction to hold
wing 304 in the user-set retracted position. That is, wings 304
remain in a retracted positon until a user moves them to an
extended position. As such, this prevents unintentional movement of
wings 34. Additionally or alternatively, in one or more
embodiments, the base 26 and/or wings may include a locking
mechanism configured and arranged to lock wings in an extended
and/or retracted position.
[0341] Center Support 34:
[0342] In the arrangement shown, as one example, with reference to
FIG. 105 through FIG. 123 self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
includes a center support 34. In the arrangement shown, as one
example, with reference to FIG. 105 through FIG. 123, center
support 34 extends through upright assembly 32, through lower
portion 28 of base 26 and through backstop 30 of base 26. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, center support 34 is formed of a
strong, rigid and durable metallic material. In contrast, upright
assembly 32, lower portion 28 of base 26 and backstop 30 of base 26
may be formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic, a
nylon, a composite, a fiberglass or any other non-metallic material
or any combination thereof. While upright assembly 32, lower
portion 28 of base 26 and backstop 30 of base 26 are formed of
strong and rigid materials, the addition of center support 34
extending through all of these components provides additional
strength and rigidity.
[0343] In particular, by having center support 34 extend upward
within backstop 30 of base 26, this substantially prevents or
reduces the flexion of backstop 30 when clamping force is applied
by clamping assembly 38 onto workpiece 24 which applies force onto
backstop 30 of base 26. That is, by completing the U-shaped profile
of center support 34, and extending center support 34 through all
of upright assembly 32, lower portion 28 of base 26 and backstop 30
of base 26 this increases the strength and rigidity of the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10 and increases the accuracy
of the pocket holes it drills by reducing or eliminating flexing of
the system 10 under clamping pressure.
[0344] Storage Features 316:
[0345] In the arrangement shown, as one example, with reference to
FIG. 105 through FIG. 123 self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10
includes storage features 316. Storage features 316 are formed of
any suitable size, shape and design and are configured to hold and
store components that are needed or useful when using
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system 10.
[0346] In the arrangement shown, as one example, storage features
316 are positioned in the forward side of backstop 30. In the
arrangement shown, as one example, storage features 316 are sized
and shaped to frictionally hold a stepped drill bit 318 and stop
collar 320, Allen wrench 322, short driver 324 and long driver 326
therein among any other tool, part, component or the like.
[0347] Objectives Met:
[0348] In this way the system 10 is used to form pocket hole and
all of the objectives of the disclosure are met. That is, the
self-adjusting pocket hole jig system presented herein: improves
upon the state of the art; is easy to use; is efficient; can be
used with any type of workpiece; is cost effective; forms accurate
pocket holes; is safe to use; has a durable design; has a long
useful life; provides additional functionality for pocket hole jigs
and pocket hole joinery; has a wide variety of uses; has a wide
variety of applications; provides cost savings to a user; is
relatively inexpensive; provides value; prevents or reduces
relative movement between the pocket hole jig and the workpiece;
reduces the amount of clamping pressure required to adequately
clamp a pocket hole jig to a workpiece; facilitates the formation
of aesthetically pleasing finished products; provides a clamping
with a single movement of a handle; facilitates easier clamping;
facilitates raising and lowering of the drill guide assembly with a
single movement of the handle; facilitates easy release of the
clamping mechanism; facilitates easy return of the clamping
mechanism to a non-clamping position; facilitates easy adjustment
of the clamping pressure; facilitates stable placement when used
horizontally; facilitates stable placement when used vertically;
facilitates easy removal of chips and debris during use; is
comfortable to use; is more stable than other pocket hole jigs;
facilitates automatic return of the clamping assembly to a
non-clamping position; facilitates spring loaded return of the
clamping assembly to a non-clamping position; improves the
ergonomics of use; easily adjusts to workpieces of various
thickness; adjusts the drill guide assembly to the optimum position
for each workpiece; consistently applies the same clamping pressure
regardless of workpiece thickness, improves the intuitiveness of
drilling pocket hole jigs; improves the usability of pocket hole
jigs; reduces set-up time; provides a single touch point for
clamping and adjusting the position of the drill guide assembly;
provides convenient woodchip, dust and debris removal; provides
easy removal and replacement of drill guide blocks, among countless
other features and benefits.
[0349] Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and
described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill
in the art that other arrangements calculated to achieve the same
purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This
application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of
the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that this disclosure be
limited only by the following claims, and the full scope of
equivalents thereof. To be clear, the term "operatively", as used
in the claims, such as when a claim states "operably connected" or
"connected in an operable manner" or similar language is intended
to mean connected by any manner, method or means, including
directly connected, indirectly connected, connected by intervening
or intermediary parts, pieces or components, connected as separate
components, connected as a single component, or connected in any
manner that facilitates operation. In this ways, the term
"operatively" is intended to be broadly interpreted as connected in
any way and does not require direct connection but may include a
direct connection and may include being formed of a single member
or formed of a plurality of members that are connected to one
another. A direct connection between two parts or components is
only required when a claim states "directly connected" "directly
engaged" "connected directly to" or similar language.
* * * * *