Cutting machine with reduced shape dimensions

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cutting machine, comprising a work surface, a bracket, a tool and a drive mechanism. The bracket is disposed above the work surface. The tool is removably fixed to the bracket and is configured to (i) move toward the work surface along a first axis, (ii) move relative to the work surface along a second axis transverse to the first axis, and (iii) move relative to the work surface along a third axis transverse to the first axis and the second axis. The drive mechanism is offset from the first axis and is configured to move the tool along the first axis.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application No. 62 / 947,470, entitled “Cutting Machine Having A Reduced Form Factor,” filed on December 12, 2019, under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), the disclosure of which is considered part of the disclosure of this application, and the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to electronic cutting systems, methods and apparatuses. In particular, the present disclosure relates to miniaturized electronic cutting machines. Background Art

[0004] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] Throughout history, people have found feelings of self-realization, achievement, satisfaction, and expression through artistic creation. More recently, in the late 19th century, an arts reform and social movement led by skilled craftsmen is slowly beginning to be recognized by many people in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. This movement has become commonly known as the Arts and Crafts Movement.

[0006] The so-called Arts and Crafts movement that began many years ago has continued to evolve today by many people who are not necessarily well versed in a particular trade. Therefore, it can be said that non-technical people participate in Arts and Crafts as a social activity or hobby. In some cases, the activity or hobby is practiced for a number of reasons ranging from financial gain, gifts or just to pass the time while finding a sense of self-realization, achievement, satisfaction and expression.

[0007] As modern technology advances, the "Arts and Crafts Movement" that began many years ago is susceptible to other advances that would enhance or improve the way, for example, skilled or unskilled people could contribute to Arts and Crafts. Thus, there is a need to develop improved components, devices, and the like to advance the art.

[0008] One type of device that is being developed and improved is an electronic cutter, which may also be generally referred to as a vinyl cutter or cutter. Currently available electronic cutters are deficient in many aspects that affect the user experience and enjoyment.

[0009] For example, typical cutting machines are large and heavy, occupying a large area of ​​a table / counter surface (e.g., a workbench surface) during use. For those who need space on the workbench next to the cutting machine to place other tools and supplies, using these machines can be frustrating.

[0010] Current cutting machines are sized so that lifting and transporting the machine can be difficult. Because these machines are heavy to transport and set up, users often leave them in place indefinitely without moving them between uses or storing them out of sight between uses.

[0011] Cutting machine manufacturers continually attempt to simplify user interface features to make their machines easier to use for novice craftsmen and those just beginning the Arts and Crafts movement. Nevertheless, current cutting machine user interface features remain complex and often unintuitive, which prevents users, especially inexperienced craftsmen, from realizing the full potential of their cutting machines.

[0012] Therefore, there are many problems in the art that can be solved. Summary of the invention

[0013] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0014] Each of the above-mentioned independent embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as those embodiments described in the detailed description below, may include any features, options and possibilities set forth in the present disclosure and the drawings (including those features, options and possibilities under other independent embodiments), and may also include any combination of any features, options and possibilities set forth in the present disclosure and the drawings.

[0015] Additional features and advantages of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be set forth in the description that follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be understood by the practice of such exemplary embodiments. The features and advantages of such embodiments may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations specifically indicated in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be understood by the practice of such exemplary embodiments as set forth below.

[0016] The details of one or more embodiments of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0017] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to electronic cutting systems, methods, and apparatus. In particular, the present disclosure relates to miniaturized cutting machines. For example, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cutting machine includes a work surface, a bracket disposed above the work surface, a tool removably secured to the bracket, and an off-axis Z-drive mechanism. The tool is configured to be manipulated up and down in the Z direction, back and forth in the X direction, and forward and backward in the Y direction relative to the work surface. The off-axis Z-drive mechanism is configured to manipulate the tool up and down in the Z direction.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, a cutting machine includes: a working surface; a passive bracket arranged above the working surface, the passive bracket including a first part and a second part; a drive belt configured to actuate the passive bracket back and forth laterally relative to the working surface; and a drive mechanism offset from the Z-axis, configured to actuate the first part of the bracket vertically up and down relative to the working surface.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cutting machine includes: a work surface; a bracket disposed above the work surface, the bracket including a tool clamp configured to releasably secure a tool to the bracket, and the blade clamp includes a four-bar linkage system having bars rotatably connected via a pin. During operation of the cutting machine, the pin is hidden from view.

[0020] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cutting machine. The cutting machine may include a working surface, a bracket, a tool, and a drive mechanism. The bracket may be disposed above the working surface. The tool may be removably fixed to the bracket and configured to (i) move toward the working surface along a first axis, (ii) move relative to the working surface along a second axis transverse to the first axis, and (iii) move relative to the working surface along a third axis transverse to the first axis and the second axis. The drive mechanism may be offset from the first axis and configured to move the tool along the first axis.

[0021] Implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, the bracket is passive.

[0022] In some embodiments, the drive mechanism includes a first motor and a shaft. The first motor may be detachable from the bracket. The shaft may be coupled to the first motor and the tool and configured to move the front portion of the bracket along the first axis. The drive mechanism may include a drive gear and a drive belt, which are coupled to the first motor and the shaft. The drive gear and the drive belt may be configured to rotate the shaft. The drive gear and the drive belt may be configured to transmit the rotational motion of the first motor to the shaft. The shaft may define a double D cross-sectional shape. The drive gear may define an orifice having a double D shape. The shaft may be disposed in the orifice. The cutter may also include a side portion and a wall. The side portion may be offset from the bracket relative to the second axis. The wall may divide the cutter into a front portion and a rear portion. The drive gear and the drive belt may be disposed in the side portion. The first motor may be disposed in the rear portion. The bracket may be disposed in the front portion.

[0023] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a cutting machine. The cutting machine may include a working surface, a passive bracket, a drive belt, and a drive mechanism. The passive bracket may be disposed above the working surface. The passive bracket may include a first portion and a second portion. The drive belt may be configured to move the passive bracket in a first direction relative to the working surface. The drive mechanism may be detachable from the passive bracket and configured to move the first portion of the bracket in a second direction relative to the working surface. The second direction may be transverse to the first direction.

[0024] Implementations of this aspect of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, the cutter includes a side portion and a first motor. The side portion may be offset from the passive bracket in the first direction. The first motor may be disposed behind the passive bracket and configured to drive the drive belt. The drive belt may (i) extend from the rear of the passive bracket into the side portion of the cutter and (ii) extend from the side portion to the passive bracket.

[0025] In some embodiments, the cutter includes a side portion offset from the passive bracket in the first direction. The drive mechanism may include a rack and pinion mechanism, a shaft, a drive belt, and a motor. The rack and pinion mechanism may be coupled to the passive bracket. The shaft may engage the rack and pinion mechanism. The drive belt may be disposed in the side portion. The motor may be disposed behind the passive bracket and outside the side portion. The motor may be configured to rotate the shaft via the drive belt and one or more gears. The shaft may define a double D cross-sectional shape. A first gear of the one or more gears may define an orifice having a double D shape. The shaft may be disposed in the orifice.

[0026] In some embodiments, the passive bracket includes a vertical guide rod extending behind the passive bracket and fixed to the second portion of the passive bracket. The first portion of the passive bracket may include an arm extending from the first portion through the second portion. The arm may be slidably engaged with the vertical guide rod. The second portion of the passive bracket may include an opening. The arm of the first portion may extend through the opening.

[0027] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a cutting machine visible along a line of sight. The cutting machine may include a work surface and a bracket. The bracket may be disposed above the work surface. The bracket may include a tool fixture configured to secure a tool to the bracket. The tool fixture may include a first rod and a second rod. The second rod may be pivotally coupled to the first rod via a first pin that intersects the line of sight. The first rod may be operable to move between (i) a first orientation that intersects the line of sight and (ii) a second orientation that is offset from the line of sight.

[0028] Implementations of this other aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, the tool holder includes a third rod and a fourth rod. The third rod may be pivotally coupled to the second rod. The fourth rod may be pivotally coupled to the third rod. During movement of the first rod between the first orientation and the second orientation, the first rod, the second rod, the third rod, and the fourth rod may not form a cam follower surface.

[0029] In some implementations, at least one of the first rod or the second rod is at least partially formed of glass-filled nylon.

[0030] In some embodiments, at least one of the first rod or the second rod is at least partially formed of glass-filled polycarbonate.

[0031] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a cutting assembly. The cutting assembly may include a first drive mechanism, a second drive mechanism and a bracket. The bracket may include a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion may be operably coupled to the first drive mechanism. The rear portion may be coupled to the front portion and operably coupled to the second drive mechanism. The rear portion may be configured to (i) move with the front portion in a first direction when the second drive mechanism is actuated and (ii) move relative to the front portion in a second direction transverse to the first direction when the first drive mechanism is actuated. The second portion may be disposed between at least one of the first drive mechanism or the second drive mechanism and the first portion.

[0032] Implementations of this further aspect of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, the second drive mechanism includes a drive gear and a drive belt that are offset from the carriage in the first direction. The first drive mechanism may be offset from the carriage in the second direction.

[0033] Each of the above-mentioned independent aspects of the present disclosure, as well as those aspects described in the detailed description below, may include any features, options and possibilities set forth in the present disclosure and the drawings (including those features, options and possibilities under the other independent aspects), and may also include any combination of any features, options and possibilities set forth in the present disclosure and the drawings.

[0034] Additional features and advantages of exemplary aspects of the present disclosure will be set forth in the description that follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be understood through the practice of such exemplary aspects. The features and advantages of such aspects may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations specifically indicated in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be understood through the practice of such exemplary aspects as set forth below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] In order to describe the manner in which the above and other advantages and features of the present invention can be obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be given by reference to specific embodiments thereof shown in the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present disclosure and are not therefore to be considered limiting of its scope, the present invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1A is a front perspective view of an exemplary cutting machine according to the principles of the present disclosure, with a door arranged in an open orientation to receive material;

[0037] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A rear perspective view of a cutting machine;

[0038] Figure 2 yes Figure 1A A front perspective view of the cutting machine with the door arranged in a closed orientation;

[0039] Figure 3 yes Figure 1A Front view of the cutting machine;

[0040] Figure 4 According to the principles of the present disclosure Figure 1A Another front perspective view of a cutting machine of , with the outer shell removed to illustrate an exemplary arrangement of the internal working components of the cutting machine;

[0041] Figure 5 According to the principles of the present disclosure Figure 1A A top view of a cutting machine with the outer casing removed to illustrate an exemplary arrangement of the internal working parts of the cutting machine;

[0042] Figure 6 According to the principles of the present disclosure Figure 1A A rear perspective view of a cutting machine with the housing removed to illustrate an exemplary arrangement of the internal working components of the cutting machine;

[0043] Figure 7 According to the principles of the present disclosure Figure 1A A rear view of a cutting machine with the outer casing removed to illustrate an exemplary arrangement of internal working components;

[0044] Figure 8 is a close-up rear perspective view of an exemplary portion of a belt drive of a cutting machine according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0045] Fig. 9 is a close-up front perspective view of an exemplary portion of a belt drive of a cutting machine according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0046] Fig. 10A showing a close-up perspective view of an exemplary rack and pinion gear of a cutting machine according to the principles of the present disclosure, the exemplary rack and pinion gear being configured to drive a cutting blade in a vertical direction;

[0047] Fig. 10B According to the principles of the present disclosure, Fig. 10A a cross-sectional view of an exemplary double D shaft with a pinion-type gear engagement;

[0048] Fig.11 is a right side view of a cutting machine according to the principles of the present disclosure with the outer shell removed to illustrate an exemplary arrangement of internal working components;

[0049] Fig.12 is a left side view of a cutting machine according to the principles of the present disclosure with the outer shell removed to illustrate an exemplary arrangement of internal working components;

[0050] Fig.13 is a front perspective view of an exemplary subassembly of a cutting machine according to the principles of the present disclosure, the exemplary subassembly including a carriage and a plurality of drive shafts and carriage guide rods;

[0051] Fig.14 yes Fig.13 a rear perspective view of a subassembly of;

[0052] Fig.15 is an upper right perspective view of an exemplary tool holder of a cutting machine arranged in a closed configuration in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0053] Fig.16 is arranged in the open configuration Fig.15 An upper right perspective view of a tool fixture;

[0054] Fig.17 is arranged in the open configuration Fig.15 A lower right perspective view of a tool fixture;

[0055] Fig.18 is based on Fig.17 A cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 1 , which shows the tool holder arranged in an open configuration;

[0056] Fig.19 It is a reference Fig.18 another cross-sectional view of , but showing the tool holder arranged in a closed configuration;

[0057] Fig. 20 is a front perspective view of an exemplary bracket according to the principles of the present disclosure, the exemplary bracket being configured for use with Figure 1A Used with cutting machines;

[0058] Fig.21 is a perspective view of a first step of using a system including the cutting machine of FIG. 1 configured to perform processing on a workpiece material according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0059] Fig. 22 Is used according to Fig.21 A perspective view of a second step of the system;

[0060] Fig.23 Is used according to Fig.21 A perspective view of the third step of the system;

[0061] Fig.23A is based on Fig.23 A cross-sectional view taken along line 23A-23A;

[0062] Fig.24 Is used according to Fig.21 A perspective view of the fourth step of the system;

[0063] Fig.24A is based on Fig.24 A cross-sectional view along line 24A-24A.

[0064] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] The present disclosure generally relates to electronic cutting systems, methods and devices. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a miniaturized electronic cutting machine and provides technical solutions to many technical problems in the above-discussed technology.

[0066] For example, in one aspect of the cutting machine disclosed herein, the machine is small enough to be stored on a counter or table surface (eg, a workbench surface) while maximizing the space available for other production tools and supplies.

[0067] Alternatively, the cutting machine described herein can be easily placed in a standard-sized drawer or cabinet at home for easy storage. Along these lines, the cutting machine described herein is small in size and lightweight, thereby being easily moved from one place to another. Thus, the cutting machine described herein is portable and easy to assemble and disassemble before and after use.

[0068] Furthermore, in one aspect of the cutting machine described herein, the machine is simple to use with minimal or no user interface buttons or complexity. Thus, the cutting machine of the present disclosure can be easily used by experienced craftsmen and novice craftsmen alike.

[0069] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0070] Reference Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2 and Figure 3, embodiments of the present disclosure are generally directed to a cutting machine 10, components thereof, and methods of using the same. The cutting machine 10 includes a housing 12 and a door 14. The door 14 may be disposed in a closed orientation (see, e.g., Figure 2 ) and open the configuration (see e.g. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 3 ). When the door 14 is arranged in the open configuration, the workpiece (see, e.g. Figure 21 to Figure 24 A workpiece 100 (which may be defined by an upper layer of workpiece material 102 and a lower layer of workpiece support material 104) is to be inserted into the cutting machine 10. A door 14 may be selectively opened and closed via a hinge mechanism (not shown), wherein the door 14 is connected to the housing 12 of the cutting machine 10. Figure 1A and Figure 3 A number of exemplary internal cutting components of the cutting machine 10 may include, for example, one or more of a carriage 16, a roller assembly 18, or the like.

[0071] As the tool 38 impacts the work surface 13, the workpiece (e.g., Fig.23 The workpiece 100 in the cutter 10 is at least partially supported on the work surface 13. In some configurations, the upwardly facing surface of the door 14 may also define or serve as another portion of the work surface 13 that supports the workpiece 100 fed through the cutting machine 10. As the workpiece 100 is fed forward and backward through the roller assembly 18, the carriage 16 for manipulating the tool 38 (e.g., the cutting blade) selectively impacts the workpiece 100 downward. The carriage 16 can also move back and forth across the workpiece 100 to form one or more cuts at any area of ​​the workpiece 100 (see, e.g., Fig.23A C). Although the tool 38 is used in e.g. Fig.23A 10 is shown as a cutting tool 38 (e.g., a blade), but the cutting machine 10 is not limited to a tool 38 including a cutting blade, and likewise, other tools may be secured to and manipulated by the carriage 16. For example, in some configurations, as the workpiece 100 is fed through the cutting machine 10, the cutting tool 38 may be replaced with another tool, such as a scoring tool, ink pen, or other tool configured to add, remove, or otherwise alter an upper layer of the workpiece material 102 of the workpiece 100.

[0072] In some cases, as the carriage 16 moves back and forth laterally in the X direction, the roller assembly 18 can move the workpiece 100 forward and backward in the Y direction. The X direction and the Y direction mentioned above can refer to Figure 1A The XYZ coordinate system shown.

[0073] In some embodiments, the tool 38 can be accommodated, contained within, or movably manipulated by the bracket 16 up and down in a vertical direction (ie, the Z direction) relative to the work surface 13 and the workpiece 100. The Z direction is also referred to as Figure 1A XYZ coordinate system.

[0074] Reference Figure 1B The housing 12 defines a through slot 20 that allows a workpiece 100 being cut or fed through the cutter 10 to pass through the cutter 10 without limiting the length of an upper layer of workpiece material 102 of the workpiece 100 being cut by the cutter 10 (see, e.g. Figure 22 to Figure 24 The length L of the workpiece 100 100 During operation, the upper layer of the workpiece material 102 of the workpiece 100 being cut may be increased or decreased as needed depending on the length L of the workpiece 100. 100 and C being cleaved (see e.g. Fig.23A The cutting machine 100 may be configured to move in and out of the through slot 20 in order to cut the workpiece 100 in a pattern in the upper layer of the workpiece material 102 of the workpiece 100. Thus, the embodiments of the cutting machine 10 described herein may include internal cutting components and other operating components, such as motors (i.e., Z-direction motor 30, X-direction motor 32, and Y-direction motor 34), gears, belts, and other electronic devices that are arranged so as not to interfere with the workpiece 100 that always passes through the cutting machine 10 during use.

[0075] In some configurations, the cutter 10 of the present disclosure may be sized in a "miniaturized" manner such that the cutter 10 is sized in a manner that defines a small, compact form factor for ease of use. Thus, the terms "compact," "miniaturized," "small," "portable," or other similar terms used herein to describe the size of the cutter 10 are not meant to be limiting; rather, these terms are used to refer to electronic cutters that are generally suitable for use by individual consumers at home or in the workplace. Thus, the cutter 10 of the present disclosure may be lightweight, portable, and easily operated by untrained personnel.

[0076] The dimensions described herein with reference to the cutting machine 10 are given only as examples of the general dimensions and proportions of the cutting machine 10. For example, by way of non-limiting example, at least one embodiment of the cutting machine 10 described herein may have the following dimensions; thus, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 : a height H of approximately (e.g., + / - 10%) 3 inches to 6 inches; a width W of approximately (e.g., + / - 10%) 6 inches to 10 inches; and a depth D of approximately (e.g., + / - 10%) 4 inches to 6 inches. Figure 2The reference dimensions are non-limiting and are meant only to give exemplary proportions of the cutting machine 10 described herein. One or more other embodiments of the cutting machine 10 may deviate from any or all of the above-mentioned dimensions while providing a portable, lightweight, consumer-friendly cutting machine 10 suitable for arts and crafts applications that includes all of the advantages of miniaturization mentioned herein.

[0077] See Figures 1A to 2 , the cutting machine 10 can be almost entirely (if not completely) free of any user interface buttons or screens. In some configurations, the cutting machine 10 is configured to be remotely controlled from a computer or mobile device, for example, via wired and / or wireless communication methods. In this way, the cutting machine 10 simplifies the user's experience and presents a clean, aesthetically pleasing device.

[0078] Reference Figure 1A and Figure 3 Since the cutter 10 is configured to have such a relatively small form factor, the design of the cutter 10 maximizes the available cutting space of the cavity 22 defined by the housing 12. The cavity 22, as referred to herein, may be generally defined by the lateral dimension along which a tool 38 secured within or supported by the carriage 16 may cut or otherwise manipulate a workpiece 100 fed into the cutter 10. Figure 3 The front view of the cutting machine 10 reveals the lateral dimensions or lateral extents of the cavity 22 that may define the lateral cutting area. Thus, the cavity 22 represents the extent of the lateral (X-direction) space in which the workpiece 100 may be inserted and manipulated (e.g., cut) by the tool 38 secured within or supported by the carriage 16. In order to maximize the lateral cutting area limited by the available space associated with the cavity 22, the internal components (e.g., including motors (i.e., Z-direction motor 30, X-direction motor 32, and Y-direction motor 34), gears, shafts, electronics, and other components) are arranged to minimize the thickness T of the left side portion 26 of the housing 12 and the right side portion 24 of the housing 12, respectively.

[0079] Reference Figure 4, the housing 12 is removed to illustrate an exemplary configuration of the various internal components of the cutting machine 10. As shown, in order to minimize the thickness T of the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 and the left side portion 26 of the housing 12, some of the larger or larger components of the various internal components of the cutting machine 10 (e.g., motors (i.e., Z-direction motor 30, X-direction motor 32, and Y-direction motor 34), circuit boards, and drive gears) are disposed rearward (i.e.: (1) away from the door 14 located near the front side of the cutting machine 10; and (2) behind the bracket 16, rather than laterally disposed within the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 and the left side portion 26 of the housing 12).

[0080] In some configurations, the cutting machine 10 may include a plurality of motors 30, 32, 34 (e.g., three motors defined by, for example, a Z-direction motor 30, an X-direction motor 32, and a Y-direction motor 34) disposed behind the carriage 16 and separated by an inner housing or wall portion 36 of the cutting machine 10. Figures 4 to 8 , a plurality of motors including for use in conjunction with Figure 1A For example, the first motor 30 (ie, the "Z-direction motor") is configured to actuate in each of the three directions associated with the XYZ coordinate system of FIG. Figure 1A The second motor 32 (ie, the "X-direction motor") is configured to actuate the carriage 16 in the Z direction of the XYZ coordinate system of FIG. Figure 1A The third motor 34 (ie, the "Y direction motor") is configured to actuate the carriage 16 in the X direction of the XYZ coordinate system of FIG. Figure 1A The carriage 16 is actuated in the Y direction of the XYZ coordinate system of the housing 12 via one or more gears, belts, and shafts. More details about the specific components that transmit the rotation of the shaft from the Z-direction motor 30 to the vertical actuation of the carriage 16 will be given below; however, it is briefly pointed out here that the relatively bulky Z-direction motor 30 itself is disposed behind the carriage 16, while the less bulky gears, belts, and other components that transmit the motion to the carriage 16 are disposed within the left side portion 26 of the housing 12. Because such belts, gears, and other components are disposed within the left side portion 26 of the housing 12 and can be arranged to be flat and coplanar relative to each other, the thickness T of the left side portion 26 of the housing 12 is minimized.

[0081] The same is true for the components disposed within the right side portion 24 of the housing 12, which, according to some embodiments, houses the gears and belts that transmit the rotational motion from the Y-direction motor 34 to the roller assembly 18, which is located in the Figure 1AThe Y-direction motor 34 is configured to actuate the workpiece 100 forward and backward in the Y direction of the XYZ coordinate system of the housing 10. Similar to the Z-direction motor 30, the Y-direction motor 34 is disposed behind the bracket 16, rather than being disposed to one side within one of the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 and the left side portion 26 of the housing 12, thereby reducing the lateral (X-direction) form factor of the cutting machine 10 and maximizing the cutting space of the cavity 22 of the housing 12.

[0082] Likewise, the X-direction motor 32 is disposed behind the carriage 16 by means of drive gears, belts and other drive components. Figure 1A The drive gears, belts and other drive components are disposed in the left side portion 26 of the housing 12 to actuate the carriage 16 laterally back and forth in the X direction of the XYZ coordinate system of the housing 12. To the extent that one or more of the plurality of components are disposed in the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 and the left side portion 26 of the housing 12, one or more of the plurality of components need not be so limited. For example, various gears, belts or other drive components associated with the Z direction motor 30 may alternatively be disposed in the right side portion 24 of the housing 12. The same applies to other of the plurality of components associated with the X direction motor 32 and the Y direction motor 34.

[0083] Return to reference Figure 3 As non-limiting examples, the thickness T of the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 and the left side portion 26 of the housing 12 may be less than about 2 inches in some configurations, or less than about 1.5 inches in other configurations, or about 1 inch or less in still other configurations. The thickness T of the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 or the left side portion 26 of the housing 12 may be greater or less than the above dimensions without departing from the characteristics and smaller form factors of the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 and the left side portion 26 of the housing 12 described herein.

[0084] Reference Figure 5 , shows a top view of the cutting machine 10 without the housing 12. From this top view, the rearward position of the Z-direction motor 30, the X-direction motor 32, and the Y-direction motor 34 relative to the carriage 16 is shown. Along these same lines, Figure 6 A similar configuration is shown from a rear perspective, and Figure 7 A rear view of the cutting machine 10 is shown without the housing 12 .

[0085] The Z direction motor 30 controls the bracket 16 to move Figure 1AIn order to achieve movement in the Z direction of the XYZ coordinate system, one or more drive mechanisms are completely off-axis; this "off-Z drive configuration" allows for a completely passive carriage (i.e., the carriage 16 does not include any active drive motors, wires, or other drive components); this allows for implementations of relatively small-sized carriages 16 that are advantageously fitted within the smaller form factor of the cutting machine 10 and the cutting space of the cavity 22. Rather than having a Z drive component on the carriage 16 (i.e., actuating the carriage 16 on the Figure 1A The carriage 16 is passively actuated by a motor, gears and belts disposed behind the carriage 16 or disposed in the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 or the left side portion 26 of the housing 12. In this way, the carriage 16 remains light and small, and the Z-direction motor 30, the X-direction motor 32 and the Y-direction motor 34 are secured in other locations within the cutting machine 10.

[0086] Attention will now be directed to the details of how each of the plurality of motors 30, 32, 34 actuates the positioning or movement of a tool 38 (e.g., a cutting blade) relative to a workpiece 100 that is fed into the cutting machine 10 between the roller bars 54, 56 of the roller assembly 18. With respect to X-direction actuation of the carriage 16, the X-direction motor 32 rotates a set of gears that drive the belt 40, such as Figure 8 See Fig. 9 , the belt 40 extends into the left side portion 26 of the housing 12 and crosses the cut space of the cavity 22 into the right side portion 24 of the housing 12. The belt 40 is fixed to the carriage 16 at the rear portion 42 of the carriage 16. As the X-direction motor 32 drives the belt 40 back and forth, the carriage 16 moves in Figure 1A The XYZ coordinate system is driven back and forth laterally in the X direction.

[0087] The off-Z-axis drive of the carriage 16 discussed above also utilizes a belt 44 that drives a keyed shaft 46, which may be referred to herein as a "double D shaft," which is fixed to a pinion-type gear 48 as part of a rack and pinion mechanism 50 disposed inside the carriage 16. Fig. 9 and Fig. 10A Belt 44, double D shaft 46 and rack and pinion mechanism 50 are shown. Fig. 10A , the front portion of the carriage 16 has been removed to show the rack and pinion mechanism 50. The rack and pinion mechanism 50 converts the rotational motion of the double D shaft 46 into vertical motion in the Z direction of the tool 38 fixed in or supported by the carriage 16.

[0088] like Fig. 10BAs shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG, the double D shaft 46 includes opposing flat sides forming four corners, each of which engages the pinion 48 at four corresponding contact points. The double flat side configuration of the double D shaft 46 provides additional contact with the pinion 48, which reduces the force at each contact point and reduces wear between the two components.

[0089] Generally, the use of the belts 40, 44 within the cutting machine 10 provides a number of advantages, including, for example, minimization of the form factor of the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 and the left side portion 26 of the housing 12 (i.e., the belts 40, 44 tend to occupy less space laterally within the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 and the left side portion 26 of the housing 12) and tend to have a thinner form factor than the gears. Thus, by minimizing the number of gears by using the belts 40, 44 instead of using all gears, undesirable backlash in the control system of the carriage 16 is also reduced.

[0090] To further clarify the component arrangement of the plurality of components disposed within the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 and the left side portion 26 of the housing 12, refer to Fig.11 and Fig.12 , the side view of the cutting machine 10 with the housing 12 removed provides an unobstructed view of the components since the left side portion 26 of the housing 12 and the right side portion 24 of the housing 12 are removed, respectively. Fig.11 The belts 40, 44 described above are shown, which are driven by the X-direction motor 32 and the Z-direction motor 30, respectively. Fig.12 A belt 52 is shown driven by the Y-direction motor 34 through a series of gears. The belt 52 drives a lower roller bar 54, which is biased against an upper roller bar 56 via a spring. The upper roller bar 56 and the lower roller bar 54 together define a roller assembly 18 that engages a workpiece 100 fed into the cutting machine 10. In some embodiments, the roller assembly 18 actuates the workpiece 100 to move in a straight line. Figure 1A The forward and backward movement in the Y direction of the XYZ coordinate system. An exemplary arrangement of the upper roller bar 56 of the roller assembly 18 can be Figure 1A Seen in.

[0091] Reference Fig.13 and Fig.14 For purposes of illustration, the carriage 16 and various guide rods, actuation shafts, and roller bars are shown isolated from the rest of the various components of the cutting machine 10. As described above, the roller assembly 18 may include a lower roller bar 54 and an upper roller bar 56, wherein respective rollers 62, 60 are pressed against each other to Figure 1A The workpiece 100 is fed forward and backward through the cutting machine 10 in the Y direction of the XYZ coordinate system.

[0092] In addition to the roller assembly 18 providing a "pressing" force to the workpiece 100, Fig.13 and Fig.14 Also shown are front and rear perspective views of the double D shaft 46, respectively. As described above, the double D shaft 46 engages the rack and pinion mechanism 50 so that Figure 1A The carriage 16 and the tool 38 are actuated vertically upward and downward in the Z direction of the XYZ coordinate system.

[0093] As described above, due to the configuration of the various components associated with the drive of the carriage 16 off the Z-axis, the carriage 16 is Figure 1A The XYZ coordinate system is in the X direction and Figure 1A The carriage 16 is completely passive when moving in the Z direction of the XYZ coordinate system. Because the carriage 16 is passive and does not contain any active drive mechanism (e.g., motors, wiring, solenoids or other active drive mechanisms), the carriage 16 is lightweight and compact. The small form factor of the carriage 16 allows it to be placed in a Figure 1A The distance traveled back and forth in the X direction of the XYZ coordinate system is maximized to maximize the available lateral cutting space of the cavity 22 of the housing 12. In addition, because the carriage 16 is lightweight, the amount of power required to cause movement of the carriage 16 and control of the tool 38 is reduced.

[0094] Reference Fig.13 and Fig.14 , the carriage 16 is slidably secured to the lower guide rod 63 and the upper guide rod 64 to ensure that the passively driven carriage 16 remains aligned in the XZ plane, the XY plane, and the ZY plane at each point moved by the carriage 16 during use of the cutting machine 10. The upper guide rod 64 is joined to the carriage 16 at its upper end, and the lower guide rod 63 is joined to the carriage 16 at its lower end.

[0095] In addition, as the bracket 16 is Figure 1A The front portion 68 of the carriage 16 is guided by the vertical bar 65 to travel vertically upward and downward in the Z direction of the XYZ coordinate system of the cutting machine 10. In some configurations, the vertical bar 65 is fixed to the rear portion 74 of the carriage 16. The front portion 68 of the carriage 16 can also include an arm 70 that extends rearwardly and slidably engages the vertical guide rod 66. The arm 70 extends through the carriage 16 and out of the rear thereof to increase the moment arm between the arm 70 and the vertical guide rod 66 and the vertical bar 65 so as to further stabilize the carriage 16 during use of the cutting machine 10.

[0096] To accommodate the extension of the arm 70 from the front portion 68 through the bracket 16 to the vertical guide 66, the bracket 16 includes an opening 72. Figure 1AThe rear portion 74 of the bracket 16 is actuated in the Z direction of the XYZ coordinate system during use of the cutting machine 10. Figure 1A The opening 72 allows the arm 70 to slide up and down while remaining stationary in the Z direction of the XYZ coordinate system of the cutting machine 10. These various guide rods 63, 64, 66, bars 65 and arms 70 ensure that the bracket 16 does not rock back and forth, tilt, twist or otherwise move out of position during use of the cutting machine 10.

[0097] Reference Fig.15 , an exemplary tool fixture 82 of the bracket 16 is shown. The tool fixture 82 functions by supporting or removably retaining the tool 38 in or on the bracket 16. The tool fixture 82 may include, for example, a small form factor that is easy to use, which serves as a miniaturized fixture for accommodating the tool 38 on the bracket 16. The tool fixture 82 can be narrowly configured so as not to extend laterally beyond the bracket 16 within the lateral cutting space of the cavity 22 of the housing 12. In this way, the tool fixture 82 does not limit the back and forth travel of the bracket 16 in the X direction within the lateral cutting space of the cavity 22 of the housing 12. In some configurations, the overall width W of the tool fixture 82 in the X direction can be about 1 inch. In other configurations, the overall width W of the tool fixture 82 can be greater or less than 1 inch.

[0098] In some configurations, the tool clamp 82 may be an over-center, double-locking, four-bar linkage system. Fig.15 , the tool holder 82 is shown arranged in a closed orientation, whereby the tool 38 is secured to the front portion 68 of the bracket 16. Fig.16 , the tool holder 82 is shown arranged in an open orientation, whereby the tool opening 84 is enlarged to allow removal and insertion of the tool 38. Fig.16 In the open position of the clamp lever 86, the clamp lever 86 has been rotated outward. In this open configuration, all four rods of the linkage system can be seen; these rods may include, for example: lever 86; front portion 68 of bracket 16; arm 88; and slider 90. The four rods 86, 68, 88, 90 are connected by pins (see, for example, Fig.17 The pin 92 in the rotatable engagement with the adjacent rod will be described in more detail below.

[0099] To reduce the effects of material creep of one or more components associated with the tool fixture 82, the material may be selected to have properties that reduce material creep after molding. Examples of such materials may include, but are not limited to: glass-filled polycarbonate; and glass-filled nylon.

[0100] Reference Fig.17, showing a lower perspective view of the tool holder 82, wherein the tool holder 82 is arranged in an open orientation. It can be seen that the rods 68, 86, 90, 88 are connected by three pins 92. Return to reference Fig.15 , except Fig.17 As can be seen from views other than the bottom view shown, the pin 92 is hidden during use. The pin 92 is hidden from view to create a clean, aesthetically pleasing tool holder 82 for the end user. In order to hide the pin 92 from view during use of the cutting machine 10, the pin 92 is inserted from below during assembly of the tool holder 82. As shown in FIG. Fig.17 After the pin 92 is inserted, the pin 92 is held in place from below via a raised ring feature extending from the rod 68, 86, 90 immediately around the pin 92. In some configurations, a ring that holds the pin 92 within the rod 68, 86, 90 from below can be formed using, for example, a heat stake manufacturing method.

[0101] Securing adjacent rods 68, 86, 90 of the tool clamp 82 via pins 92 in this manner can provide sufficient clamping force and movement of the rods 68, 86, 90 between the open orientation and the closed orientation of the tool clamp 82 without the materials of the rods 68, 86, 90 rubbing against each other. Therefore, the rods 68, 86, 90 are designed to not include, for example, any contacting cam follower surfaces. In this way, material wear due to friction between the rods 68, 86, 90 is minimized. In addition, the pins 92 provide lower frictional resistance for opening and closing the tool clamp 82, which provides a smoother tactile experience for the end user.

[0102] For additional reference and clarification, Fig.18 and Fig.19 Shown along Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the tool holder 82 is taken along line 18 - 18 . Fig.18 The tool holder 82 is shown in a closed orientation, and Fig.19 The tool holder 82 is shown arranged in an open orientation.

[0103] Reference Fig. 20 , an exemplary bracket 16' is shown. The bracket 16' may include a front portion 68' that is positioned during use of the cutting machine 10. Figure 1A The carriage 16' can be configured to be slidably secured to one or more guide rods 63', 64', as described above with reference to other embodiments of the carriage 16, so as to be movable in a vertical direction via one or more drive belts, gears, or combinations thereof as described herein. Figure 1A The XYZ coordinates are actuated back and forth in the X direction.

[0104] Z-drive cable 76' engages movable front portion 68' of carriage 16' so as to be guided in position by guide pins 78. Figure 1A The tool 38' is actuated vertically upward and downward in the Z direction of the XYZ coordinate system of the embodiment of the present invention. The Z-direction motor 30' causes one or more gears 80' to rotate back and forth. At least one gear 80' is engaged with the Z drive cable 76' so that when the gear 80' rotates back and forth, the length of the Z drive cable 76' extending between the gear 80' and the bracket 16' increases and decreases accordingly, thereby Figure 1A The front portion 68', and thus the tool 38', is actuated vertically upward and downward in the Z direction of the XYZ coordinate system of FIG.

[0105] In such an exemplary embodiment, the Z drive cable 76' actuates the tool 38' rather than the double D axis 46' and the rack and pinion mechanism 50'. Thus, the carriage 16' maintains its passive nature in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the operation of the carriage 16, including the absence of any active drive mechanisms (e.g., motors, solenoids, or other drive electronics) on the carriage 16' itself.

[0106] Reference Figure 21 to Figure 24 , showing a method of using the cutting machine 10. The workpiece 100 may be configured to be flexible enough to be cut, for example, on a roll 100 R The workpiece 100 is efficiently packaged and transported. R This allows longer lengths of workpieces 100 to be stored in a smaller or reduced volume. However, during the cutting operation of the cutting machine 10, it may be difficult to handle longer lengths of rolled workpieces 100. Therefore, as shown in FIG. Fig. 22 , the end user can take the roll 100 of the workpiece 100 to be cut R Place near the cutting machine 10 and manually remove the roll 100 R The length L of the coiled workpiece 100 100 Once from the reel 100 R The desired length L of the coiled workpiece 100 100 The end user can cut the workpiece 100 to a length L by, for example, using scissors S. 100 From reel 100 R In other configurations, the roll 100 of workpiece 100 R The distal end 100 D The cutting machine 10 can be inserted into the cutting machine, and thus, the cutting machine 10 can cut the workpiece 100 from the roll 100 without any manual intervention from the end user (eg, cutting the workpiece 100 with scissors S). R The length L of the coiled workpiece 100 100 .

[0107] Reference Figure 23 to Figure 24 , the cutting machine 10 is uniquely configured to operate with a workpiece 100, which may be defined by an upper layer of workpiece material 102 and a lower layer of workpiece support material 104. Fig.23 After the workpiece 100 is inserted into the cutting machine 10, the upper layer of the workpiece material 102 can be cut by the tool 38 (see, e.g. Fig.23A The lower layer of the workpiece support material 104 is not cut by the tool 38 C), and the workpiece 100 is allowed to be arranged on the roll 100 as described above. R A non-rigid, flexible, rollable material. Thus, see Fig.24 and Fig.24A , after the upper layer of workpiece material 102 is cut C, first portion 1021 of the upper layer of workpiece material 102 may then be removed from the lower layer of workpiece support material 104 while second portion 1022 of the upper layer of workpiece material 102 remains removably secured to the lower layer of workpiece support material 104. Thus, the lower layer of workpiece support material 104 that forms a portion of workpiece 100 may be configured for a single use and disposal thereafter.

[0108] As described above, each of the embodiments described in the above detailed description may include any features, options, and possibilities set forth in the present disclosure (including those under other independent embodiments), and may also include any combination of any features, options, and possibilities set forth in the present disclosure and the accompanying drawings. Other examples consistent with the present teachings described herein are set forth in the following numbered clauses:

[0109] Item 1: A cutting machine comprising: a work surface; a bracket disposed above the work surface; a tool removably secured to the bracket, the tool being configured to be manipulated up and down in a Z direction, back and forth in an X direction, and forward and backward in a Y direction relative to the work surface; and a drive mechanism offset from the Z axis, configured to manipulate the tool up and down in the Z direction.

[0110] Clause 2: The cutting machine of clause 1, wherein the bracket is passive.

[0111] Item 3: The cutting machine according to Item 1 or 2 further includes: a first motor, which is arranged to be separated from the bracket and arranged behind the bracket; and a double D axis, which is configured to be rotated by the first motor, wherein the rotation of the double D axis causes the front part of the bracket to move up and down in the Z direction.

[0112] Item 4: According to the cutting machine of Item 3, the drive offset from the Z axis also includes at least one drive gear and at least one drive belt, wherein the at least one drive gear and the at least one drive belt transmit the rotational motion of the first motor to the rotational motion of the double D axis during use.

[0113] Item 5: According to the cutting machine described in Item 4, the cutting machine also includes a side portion arranged laterally relative to the bracket in the X direction, wherein: at least one of the at least one drive gear and at least one of the at least one drive belt are arranged in the side portion; and the first motor is arranged behind the bracket in the Y direction, and the bracket is separated from the first motor by an inner wall.

[0114] Item 6: A cutting machine comprising: a work surface; a passive bracket disposed above the work surface, the passive bracket comprising a first portion and a second portion; a drive belt configured to actuate the passive bracket back and forth laterally relative to the work surface; and a drive mechanism offset from the Z-axis, configured to actuate the first portion of the bracket vertically up and down relative to the work surface.

[0115] Item 7: A cutting machine according to Item 6, wherein a first motor is arranged behind the passive bracket to drive the drive belt, the drive belt extends from the rear of the passive bracket into a side portion of the cutting machine, and extends from the side portion to the passive bracket, and the side portion of the cutting machine is laterally arranged to one side of the passive bracket.

[0116] Item 8: According to the cutting machine described in Item 6 or 7, the drive that deviates from the Z axis includes: a double D axis, which is engaged with the first part of the passive bracket via a gear rack mechanism; a Z drive belt, which is arranged in the side part of the cutting machine, and the side part is laterally arranged to one side of the passive bracket; and a Z drive motor, which is arranged behind the passive bracket and outside the side part, and the Z drive motor is configured to rotate the double D axis via the Z drive belt and one or more gears.

[0117] Clause 9: A cutting machine according to any one of clauses 6 to 8, wherein: the passive bracket includes a vertical guide rod, which extends behind the passive bracket and is fixed to the second part of the passive bracket; the first part of the passive bracket includes an extension arm, which extends rearward from the first part through the second part, and the extension arm is slidably engaged with the vertical guide rod; and the second part of the passive bracket includes an opening, and the extension arm of the first part extends through the opening.

[0118] Item 10: A cutting machine comprising: a work surface; a bracket disposed above the work surface, the bracket comprising a tool clamp configured to releasably secure a tool to the bracket, the blade clamp comprising a four-bar linkage system having rods rotatably connected via pins, wherein the pins are hidden from view during operation of the cutting machine.

[0119] Clause 11: The cutting machine of clause 10, wherein the bars of the four-bar linkage system do not form any cam follower surfaces during opening or closing of the tool clamp.

[0120] Clause 12: The cutting machine of clause 10 or clause 11, wherein at least one bar of the four-bar linkage system comprises glass-filled nylon.

[0121] Clause 13: The cutting machine of any of clauses 10 to 12, wherein at least one bar of the four-bar linkage system comprises glass-filled polycarbonate.

[0122] Item 14: A cutting machine comprising: a work surface; a bracket disposed above the work surface; a tool removably secured to the bracket, the tool being configured to (i) move toward the work surface along a first axis, (ii) move relative to the work surface along a second axis transverse to the first axis, and (iii) move relative to the work surface along a third axis transverse to the first axis and the second axis; and a drive mechanism offset from the first axis and configured to move the tool along the first axis.

[0123] Clause 15: The cutting machine of clause 14, wherein the bracket is passive.

[0124] Clause 16: A cutting machine according to any one of clauses 14 to 15, wherein the drive mechanism comprises: a first motor separate from the carriage; and a shaft coupled to the first motor and the tool and configured to move the front portion of the carriage along the first axis.

[0125] Clause 17: The cutting machine of clause 16, wherein the drive mechanism further comprises a drive gear and a drive belt coupled to the first motor and the shaft, the drive gear and the drive belt configured to rotate the shaft.

[0126] Clause 18: The cutting machine of clause 17, wherein the drive gear and the drive belt are configured to transfer the rotational motion of the first motor to the shaft.

[0127] Clause 19: The cutting machine of any of clauses 17-18, wherein the shaft defines a double-D cross-sectional shape.

[0128] Clause 20: The cutting machine of clause 19, wherein the drive gear defines an aperture having a double-D shape, and wherein the shaft is disposed within the aperture.

[0129] Clause 21: A cutting machine according to any one of clauses 17 to 20, further comprising: a side portion offset from the bracket relative to the second axis; and a wall dividing the cutting machine into a front portion and a rear portion, wherein: the drive gear and the drive belt are arranged in the side portion; the first motor is arranged in the rear portion; and the bracket is arranged in the front portion.

[0130] Item 22: A cutting machine comprising: a work surface; a passive bracket disposed above the work surface, the passive bracket comprising a first portion and a second portion; a drive belt configured to move the passive bracket in a first direction relative to the work surface; and a drive mechanism separated from the passive bracket and configured to move the first portion of the bracket in a second direction relative to the work surface, the second direction being transverse to the first direction.

[0131] Item 23: The cutting machine according to Item 22 further includes: a side portion which is offset from the passive bracket in the first direction; and a first motor which is arranged behind the passive bracket and is configured to drive the drive belt, which (i) extends from the rear of the passive bracket into the side portion of the cutting machine and (ii) extends from the side portion to the passive bracket.

[0132] Item 24: The cutting machine according to any one of items 22 to 23, further comprising a side portion offset from the passive bracket in the first direction, the drive mechanism comprising: a rack and pinion mechanism connected to the passive bracket; a shaft engaged with the rack and pinion mechanism; a drive belt arranged in the side portion; and a motor, which is arranged behind the passive bracket and outside the side portion, the motor being configured to rotate the shaft via the drive belt and one or more gears.

[0133] Clause 25: The cutting machine of clause 24, wherein the shaft defines a double-D cross-sectional shape.

[0134] Clause 26: The cutting machine of clause 25, wherein a first gear of the one or more gears defines an aperture having a double-D shape, and wherein the shaft is disposed within the aperture.

[0135] Clause 27: A cutting machine according to any one of clauses 22 to 26, wherein: the passive bracket includes a vertical guide rod, which extends behind the passive bracket and is fixed to the second part of the passive bracket; the first part of the passive bracket includes an arm extending from the first part through the second part, and the arm is slidably engaged with the vertical guide rod; and the second part of the passive bracket includes an opening, and the arm of the first part extends through the opening.

[0136] Item 28: A cutting machine visible along a line of sight, the cutting machine comprising: a work surface; and a bracket, the bracket being disposed above the work surface, the bracket comprising a tool clamp, the tool clamp being configured to secure a tool to the bracket, the tool clamp comprising a first rod and a second rod, the second rod being pivotally connected to the first rod via a first pin that intersects the line of sight, the first rod being operable to move between (i) a first orientation that intersects the line of sight and (ii) a second orientation that is offset from the line of sight.

[0137] Item 29: A cutting machine according to Item 28, wherein the tool clamp further comprises a third rod and a fourth rod, wherein the third rod is pivotally connected to the second rod, and the fourth rod is pivotally connected to the third rod, and wherein, during movement of the first rod between the first orientation and the second orientation, the first rod, the second rod, the third rod and the fourth rod do not form a cam follower surface.

[0138] Clause 30: The cutting machine of any of clauses 28-29, wherein at least one of the first rod or the second rod is at least partially formed of glass-filled nylon.

[0139] Clause 31: The cutting machine of any of clauses 28 to 30, wherein at least one of the first rod or the second rod is at least partially formed of glass-filled polycarbonate.

[0140] Item 32: A cutting assembly comprising: a first drive mechanism; a second drive mechanism; and a bracket, the bracket comprising: a front portion, the front portion being operably connected to the first drive mechanism; and a rear portion, the rear portion being connected to the front portion and operably connected to the second drive mechanism, the rear portion being configured to (i) move with the front portion in a first direction when the second drive mechanism is actuated and (ii) move relative to the front portion in a second direction transverse to the first direction when the first drive mechanism is actuated, wherein the second portion is disposed between at least one of the first drive mechanism or the second drive mechanism and the first portion.

[0141] Clause 33: The cutting assembly of clause 32, wherein: the second drive mechanism comprises a drive gear and a drive belt, the drive gear and the drive belt are offset from the bracket in the first direction, and the first drive mechanism is offset from the bracket in the second direction.

[0142] The articles "a", "an", and "the" are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements in the preceding description. The terms "comprises", "comprising", and "having" are intended to be inclusive, and mean that there may be additional elements in addition to the listed elements. In addition, it should be understood that reference to "one embodiment" or "embodiment" of the present disclosure is not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional implementations that also include the described features. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art covered by the embodiments of the present disclosure, the numbers, percentages, ratios, or other values ​​described herein are intended to include the value, as well as other values ​​that are "approximately" or "approximate to" the described value. Therefore, the values ​​should be interpreted broadly enough to cover values ​​that are at least close enough to the described values ​​to perform the desired function or achieve the desired results. The values ​​include at least the expected variations in a suitable manufacturing or production process, and may include values ​​within 5%, within 1%, within 0.1%, or within 0.01% of the described values.

[0143] In view of this disclosure, those of ordinary skill in the art should recognize that equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and modifications may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Equivalent constructions, including functional "means plus function" clauses, are intended to cover structures described herein as performing the functions described, including structural equivalents that operate in the same manner and equivalent structures that provide the same functions. It is the express intent of the applicant not to invoke "means plus function" or other functional claims with respect to any claim, except for those claims in which the term "means for" appears together with the associated function. The claims will include every addition, deletion, and modification to the embodiments that falls within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0144] As used herein, the terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" refer to an amount close to a stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" may refer to an amount that is less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, and less than 0.01% of a stated amount. Furthermore, it should be understood that any directions or reference frames in the foregoing descriptions are merely relative directions or motions. For example, any reference to "up" and "down," or "above," or "below," is merely a description of the relative position or motion of the associated elements.

[0145] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the present invention. The described embodiments are considered to be illustrative and non-restrictive in all respects. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes within the equivalent meaning and scope of the claims should be included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A cutting machine, comprising: Work surface; A passive bracket is disposed above the working surface, the passive bracket comprising: Part I; a second portion, the second portion comprising an opening; a vertical guide rod fixed to the second portion and extending behind the passive bracket; an arm extending rearwardly from the first portion and passing through the opening to slidably engage the vertical guide; a drive belt configured to move the passive carriage in a first direction relative to the work surface; and a drive mechanism separate from the passive bracket and configured to move the first portion of the passive bracket relative to the work surface in a second direction while the second portion of the passive bracket remains stationary in a second direction, the second direction being transverse to the first direction, Wherein, the opening of the second portion of the passive bracket allows the arm to slide relative to the vertical guide rod in the second direction when the first portion of the passive bracket moves in the second direction.

2. The cutting machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a side portion that is offset from the passive bracket in the first direction, Wherein, the drive mechanism includes a first motor, which is arranged behind the passive bracket and is configured to drive the drive belt, which (i) extends from the rear of the passive bracket into the side part of the cutting machine and (ii) extends from the side part to the passive bracket.

3. The cutting machine according to claim 1, further comprising a side portion offset from the passive bracket in the first direction, the drive mechanism comprising: a rack and pinion mechanism coupled to the passive bracket; a shaft engaged with the rack and pinion mechanism; a drive belt disposed within the side portion; as well as A motor is disposed behind the passive bracket and outboard of the side portion, the motor being configured to rotate the shaft via the drive belt and one or more gears.

4. The cutting machine according to claim 3, wherein: The shaft defines a double-D cross-sectional shape.

5. The cutting machine according to claim 4, wherein: A first gear of the one or more gears defines an aperture having a double-D shape, and wherein the shaft is disposed within the aperture.

6. The cutting machine according to claim 1, further comprising an upper guide rod configured to connect with an upper end portion of the passive bracket; and a lower guide rod, the lower guide rod being configured to be connected to the lower end of the passive bracket, in, The passive bracket is slidably fixed to the lower guide rod and the upper guide rod, and Wherein, the passive bracket further includes a vertical bar, and the vertical bar is configured to guide the first part of the passive bracket when the first part of the passive bracket moves in the second direction.

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