Dust management assembly for power tool

Abstract

A power tool such as a table saw includes a cutting blade, a motor to drive the blade, and a dust management assembly to collect cutting debris. The position and angle of the blade can be adjusted relative to the table of the saw. The dust management assembly is disposed beneath the table in a manner that changes position in unison with the blade and includes a blade cover that encircles a portion of the blade, a dust shield pivotably connected to the table in a manner that an inner surface of the dust shield faces an outer wall of the blade cover, and a dust port that is detachably connected to the blade cover and configured to collect debris resulting from cutting action of the blade.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a dust management component for power tools. Background Technology

[0002] Power tools with rotating cutting elements (such as table saws, guard plates, sanders, grinders, and forming machines) may generate dust, debris, and other shavings as byproducts during operation. These byproducts can accumulate inside the power tool and may ultimately compromise the operation of its mechanical components. Additionally, these byproducts can escape from the power tool and contaminate the work environment with debris. It is desirable to reduce dust contamination from such power tools. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In some aspects, a power tool may include a table defining a working surface and a blade mounted near the working surface for cutting a workpiece supported on the working surface. For example, in an example where the power tool is a table saw, the blade may protrude through the working surface and be actuated by a motor assembly disposed below the working surface. A dust management component provides a containment mounted to the motor assembly to collect dust and debris generated during the cutting operation of the power tool and to guide the dust and debris away from the blade, while preventing contamination of the tool environment.

[0004] The dust management assembly includes: a blade cap surrounding a portion of the blade; a dust port detachably connected to the open lower end of the blade cap; and a dust shield cooperating with the blade cap to guide cutting debris to the dust port. The blade cap, dust shield, and dust port provide enclosure surrounding the portion of the blade below the working surface. The dust management assembly is shaped and sized very close to the blade, minimizing the volume of the chamber surrounding the lower portion of the blade.

[0005] Specifically, the dust management assembly forms a channel around the blade and includes a downwardly curved bottom or base plate that guides debris to the dust port and provides improved venting through the dust port. With this configuration, the containment member has a small volume and good airflow generated by the blade rotation, and includes additional airflow from the motor assembly. The combination of small volume and good airflow results in efficient and reliable venting of dust from the containment member. Because the dust management assembly is mounted to the motor assembly, it moves together with the blade between high and low blade positions.

[0006] Another advantage of providing small enclosure components is that the dust management components use less material and are lighter in weight than some known dust management devices.

[0007] The dust management component is supported on the motor assembly and thus moves left and right together with any angle adjustment, and up and down with any blade height adjustment, together with the motor assembly and the blade.

[0008] The dust port can be selectively removed from the blade cover, which allows access to the interior of the enclosure and simplifies cleaning.

[0009] A dust cover covers the opening between the blade cap and the worktable, preventing access to the blade and ensuring the enclosure is closed to minimize dust contamination in the table saw's environment. This arrangement is particularly advantageous for power tools that are not cabinet-based but supported by legs or other supports that do not completely enclose the space below the work surface.

[0010] In some aspects, a power tool includes a table having a working surface disposed on a first side of the table and a second table surface disposed on a second side of the table, the first and second sides being opposite sides of the table. The table has a blade opening extending between the working surface and the second table surface. The power tool includes: a rigid base supported on the second table surface; and a motor assembly including a motor and supported on the base in such a way that the motor assembly is movable relative to the base between the first position and the second position. The power tool includes a blade driven by the motor to rotate about a rotation axis. The blade extends through the blade opening. Additionally, the power tool includes a dust management assembly fixed to and moving in unison with the motor assembly. The dust management assembly includes: a blade cover fixed to the motor assembly and surrounding the blade on a portion disposed on the second side of the worktable; a dust cover pivotally connected to the second surface of the worktable in such a way that the inner surface of the dust cover faces the outer wall of the blade cover; and a dust port detachably connected to the blade cover and configured to collect debris generated by the cutting action of the blade.

[0011] In some embodiments, the motor assembly and the dust management assembly are mounted on opposite sides of the base frame.

[0012] In some embodiments, the blade extends through the blade opening such that a first blade surface faces a first portion of the blade opening, and a second blade surface faces a second portion of the blade opening. The edge of the dust cover is aligned with the first portion of the blade opening, and the edge of the inner wall of the blade cover is aligned with the second portion of the blade opening.

[0013] In some embodiments, the power tool is cabinetless. Additionally, the dust management component surrounds the portion of the blade that protrudes from the blade opening on the second side of the worktable, thereby acting as a barrier to prevent access to the blade from the second side of the worktable.

[0014] In some embodiments, the base extends from the second surface of the tabletop and has a base through opening. A bracket connects the dust management assembly to the motor assembly, and the bracket extends through the base through opening.

[0015] In some embodiments, the dust port may be movable relative to the blade cover in a plane parallel to the working surface.

[0016] In some embodiments, the dust cover is formed of cloth.

[0017] In some embodiments, the blade cover includes: an inner wall disposed between the blade and the base; an open first end of the blade cover adjacent to the inner wall and facing the second surface of the tabletop; and an open second end of the blade cover adjacent to the inner wall and opposite to the first end of the blade cover. The dust cover is disposed on the opposite side of the blade relative to the inner wall of the blade cover and is movable relative to the blade cover. Additionally, the dust port is detachably connected to the second end of the blade cover.

[0018] In some embodiments, the dust cover is spring-biased toward the blade cover.

[0019] In some embodiments, the dust port includes a tubular portion and a grooved portion projecting from one end of the tubular portion. The grooved portion includes a first pair of parallel edges extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tubular portion, and each edge of the first pair of parallel edges is configured to provide either a track or a groove. The second end of the blade cap includes a second pair of parallel edges, and each edge of the second pair of parallel edges is configured to provide either the track or the groove. Additionally, the first pair of parallel edges is configured to engage with and translate relative to the second pair of parallel edges.

[0020] In some embodiments, the blade cap includes: an inner wall disposed between the blade and the base, the inner wall being parallel to a first surface of the blade; and an outer wall disposed on the side of the blade opposite to the base. The outer wall is angled relative to the first surface of the blade.

[0021] In some embodiments, the blade includes a curved periphery, and the blade cap includes a first sidewall disposed on a side of the blade corresponding to the cutting edge of the blade. The first sidewall extends between the inner wall and the outer wall. The blade cap includes a second sidewall extending between the inner wall and the outer wall, the second sidewall being disposed on an opposite side of the blade relative to the first sidewall. The second sidewall has a curved portion shaped to correspond to the curved periphery of the blade.

[0022] In some embodiments, the blade cap includes: a wall surrounding a portion of the blade, the wall including an open first end facing the second surface of the worktable; and an open second end opposite to the first end and connected to the dust port. When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the blade, the first end is larger than the second end.

[0023] In some embodiments, a dust cover covers the gap between the blade cover and the second surface of the worktable.

[0024] In some embodiments, the dust management component forms a barrier around the blade and includes a downwardly curved surface that guides debris to the dust port.

[0025] In some aspects, a power tool includes a worktable. The worktable includes a working surface defining a first side of the worktable and a second surface defining a second side of the worktable. The first and second sides are on opposite sides of the worktable. Additionally, the worktable includes a blade opening extending between the working surface and the second surface. The power tool includes: a rigid base supported on the second surface; and a motor assembly including a motor and supported on the base in such a way that the motor assembly is movable relative to the base between the first and second positions. The power tool includes a blade driven by the motor to rotate about a rotation axis. The blade extends through the blade opening. The power tool includes a dust management assembly disposed on an opposite side of the base relative to the motor assembly. The dust management assembly includes a blade cap and a dust port fixed to the motor assembly. The blade cap includes a sidewall surrounding the blade, a portion of which is disposed between the blade and the base. The sidewall defines an open blade cover first end facing the second surface of the tabletop, and an open blade cover second end opposite to the first end. A dust port is detachably connected to the second end of the blade cover. The dust port includes a U-shaped groove portion configured to connect to the blade cover and a tubular portion projecting from one end of the groove portion. The groove portion includes a first pair of parallel edges extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the curved portion, and each edge of the first pair of parallel edges is configured to provide either a track or a groove. The second end of the blade cover includes a second pair of parallel edges, each edge of the second pair of parallel edges being configured as either the track or the groove. Additionally, the first pair of parallel edges is configured to engage with and translate relative to the second pair of parallel edges.

[0026] In some embodiments, the dust management component includes a dust cover pivotally connected to the second surface of the countertop in such a way that the inner surface of the dust cover faces the outer surface of the sidewall of the blade cover.

[0027] In some embodiments, the blade cover sidewall includes an inner wall disposed between the blade and the base, the dust cover is disposed on the opposite side of the blade relative to the inner wall of the blade cover, the dust cover is movable relative to the blade cover, and the dust cover is spring-biased toward the blade cover.

[0028] In some embodiments, the blade cap sidewall includes an inner wall disposed between the blade and the base. The inner wall is parallel to a first surface of the blade. The blade cap sidewall also includes an outer wall disposed on the side of the blade opposite to the base. The outer wall is angled relative to the first surface of the blade.

[0029] In some embodiments, the dust management component forms a barrier around the blade and includes a downwardly curved surface that guides debris to the dust port. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a rear perspective view of a power tool that includes dust management components.

[0031] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Rear perspective view of the power tool.

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The rear perspective view of the power tool shows most of the auxiliary structures omitted to allow visualization of the dust management components, and includes the base and motor assembly.

[0033] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The rear perspective view of the power tool shows most of the auxiliary structures omitted to allow visualization of the dust management components, and includes the base and motor assembly.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a saw blade in the first position relative to the table surface.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a saw blade in the second position relative to the table surface.

[0036] Figure 7 Power tools such as along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view seen in line 7-7.

[0037] Figure 8 Power tools such as along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view seen in line 8-8.

[0038] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 The rear perspective view of the power tool shows most of the auxiliary structures, including the base and motor assembly, omitted to allow visualization of the dust management components.

[0039] Figure 10 yes Figure 1The rear perspective view of the power tool shows most of the auxiliary structures, including the base and motor assembly, omitted to allow visualization of the dust management components.

[0040] Figure 11 This is a rear perspective view of the dust management component.

[0041] Figure 12 This is a rear perspective view of the dust management component.

[0042] Figure 13 This is a front perspective view of the dust management component.

[0043] Figure 14 Dust management components such as along Figure 13 The cross-sectional view seen along line 14-14.

[0044] Figure 15 This is an exploded view of the dust management components and cover.

[0045] Figure 16 This is a rear perspective view of the blade cap.

[0046] Figure 17 This is a front perspective view of the blade cover.

[0047] Figure 18 This is a front perspective view of the blade cover.

[0048] Figure 19 This is a rear perspective view of the blade cap.

[0049] Figure 20 This is a rear perspective view of the dust cover.

[0050] Figure 21 This is a rear perspective view of the dust cover.

[0051] Figure 22 This is a rear perspective view of the dust port.

[0052] Figure 23 This is a front perspective view of the dust port.

[0053] Figure 24 This is a schematic side view of a power tool, showing the omission of most auxiliary structures to allow visualization of the dust management components, and including the base and motor assembly, with the illustration showing an alternative embodiment of a dust cover. Detailed Implementation

[0054] refer to Figure 1-8 Power tools such as table saws 1 may include a table 2 and a blade 14 extending through a blade opening 5 in the table. One side of the table 2 defines a working surface 3 on which a workpiece (not shown) is supported. The opposite side of the table 2 is referred to as the second surface 4 of the table. Figure 1 In the orientation of the table saw 1 shown, the second surface 4 of the table is below the table 2. References to relative directions (such as above, below, upper part, lower part, top, bottom, front, rear, etc.) in this document are for reference only. Figure 1 The orientation of the table saw 1 shown is described but not limiting. The table saw 1 includes a rigid base 10 projecting from the second surface 4 of the table. A motor assembly 20 is supported on a first side 11 of the base 10 by a motor mounting assembly 24. The motor assembly 20 includes a motor 21 and a gearbox 22 connected to the motor 21 and modifying the output of the motor 21. The output shaft 23 of the gearbox 22 drives the blade 14 to rotate about a rotation axis 26. The output shaft 23 extends through an opening in the base 10, whereby the blade 14 is positioned on a second opposing side 13 of the base 10 opposite to the motor assembly 20. The blade 14 is supported by the motor assembly 20 relative to the table 2. The motor assembly 20 is mounted to the first side 11 of the base in such a way that the blade 14 is configured in a first raised position ( Figure 5 ) and the second lowering position ( Figure 6 The table saw 1 moves between the blades 14 and is tilted relative to the working surface 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the table 2 does not include a cabinet, but is supported via an open support structure including a set of legs, generally indicated by reference numeral 8. The table 2 may include a railing track 16 extending along the opposite front and rear edges of the working surface 3, and an adjustable railing 18 slidably mounted to the railing 16. An insert 6 may be disposed in the blade opening 5 to tightly surround the blade 14. The table saw 1 includes other auxiliary structures, mechanisms, and components known in the art that allow for power, blade position adjustment, rail position adjustment, accessory storage, and so on, and provide safety features. Additionally, the table saw 1 includes a dust management assembly 30 that encloses a portion of the blade 14, collects dust and debris generated during cutting operations of the power tool, and guides dust and debris away from the blade 14 during operation of the table saw 1, as will be described in detail below.

[0055] In the example where the power tool is a table saw 1, the blade 14 is a rigid sheet with a circular profile and cutting teeth extending along the curved peripheral edge of the sheet. The peripheral edge including the cutting teeth will be referred to herein as the cutting edge 15. The blade 14 extends through the blade opening 5 of the table 2 in such a way that the first blade surface 14 (1) faces away from the base 10. In addition, the first blade surface 14 (1) faces away from and is parallel to the first portion 5 (1) of the blade opening 5. The second blade surface 14 (2) faces towards the base 10. The second blade surface 14 (2) faces away from and is parallel to the second portion 5 (2) of the blade opening 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the blade 14 is supported relative to the motor assembly 20 in such a way that the first and second blade surfaces 14 (1), 14 (2) extend in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation 26, and the motor assembly 20 is supported on the base 10 in such a way that the first and second portions 5 (1), 5 (2) of the blade opening 5 extend between the front side 2 (1) and the rear side 2 (2) of the table 2.

[0056] refer to Figure 7-15 The dust management assembly 30 is a multi-part housing comprising a blade cover 32, a dust cover 50, and a dust port 60. The blade cover 32 is fixed to the motor assembly 20 and surrounds the portion of the blade 14 disposed below the worktable 2. The dust cover 50 is pivotally connected to the second surface 4 of the worktable in such a way that its inner surface 51 faces and abuts the outer wall 34 of the blade cover 32. Additionally, the dust port 60 is detachably connected to the lower end of the blade cover 32 and is configured to collect debris generated by the cutting action of the blade 14. The blade cover 32, dust cover 50, and dust port 60 cooperate to enclose the portion of the blade 14 disposed below the worktable 2, thereby the dust management assembly 30 acts as a barrier preventing access to the blade from the second side of the worktable 2. Furthermore, the dust management assembly 30 is shaped and sized very close to the blade 14 and minimizes the volume of the enclosure 31 surrounding the lower portion of the blade 14. Due to the shape of the resulting enclosure 31 and the airflow generated by the rotation of the blades in the enclosure 31, debris is contained in the enclosure 31 and efficiently discharged from the dust port 60.

[0057] refer to Figure 7-8 as well as Figure 16-19The blade cover 32 is a generally tubular structure having four sides 33, 34, 35, 36 and relatively open ends 37, 38. More specifically, the blade cover 32 includes an inner wall 33, an outer wall 34, a front wall 35, and a rear wall 36. The inner wall 33 is disposed between the blade 14 and the base 10 and is perpendicular to the axis of rotation 26. The outer wall 34 is disposed on the opposite side of the blade 14 relative to the inner wall 33. The front wall 35 is disposed between the blade 14 and the front side 2 (1) of the table 2 and extends between the inner wall 33 and the outer wall 34 on the front side of the blade 14. Similarly, the rear wall 36 is disposed between the blade 14 and the rear side 2 (2) of the table 2 and extends between the inner wall 33 and the outer wall 34 on the rear side of the blade 14. The first end 37 of the blade cover 32 is open and faces the second surface 4 of the table, while the second end 38 of the blade cover is open and configured to connect to the dust port 60, as further discussed below.

[0058] The inner wall 33 of the blade cover 32 is generally parallel to the base frame 10 and aligned with the first portion 5(1) of the blade opening 5. With this configuration, the upper edge 33(1) and lower edge 33(2) of the inner wall 33 are aligned with the first portion 5(1) of the blade opening 5. The upper edge 33(1) of the inner wall includes a cutout 33(3) to accommodate the output shaft of the gearbox 22. Bracket 42 ( Figure 8 The blade cover 32 is fixed to the outer surface of the inner wall 33 (e.g., the surface facing the base). The bracket 42 is used to secure the blade cover 32 to the gearbox 22 of the motor assembly 20. Specifically, the bracket 42 extends through the base opening. Additionally, one end of the bracket 42 is fixed to the inner wall 33 of the blade cover, and the opposite end of the bracket 42 is fixed to the gearbox 22. Therefore, the blade cover 32 moves in conjunction with the motor assembly 20 and the blade 14.

[0059] The outer wall 34 of the blade cover 32 has a height dimension smaller than that of the inner wall 33, where the height dimension corresponds to the dimension in the direction perpendicular to the second surface 4 of the table. Therefore, the outer wall 34 is configured to cover the lowest portion of the blade 14. For example, the height dimension of the outer wall 34 is in the range of 30% to 75% of the height dimension of the inner wall 33. The corresponding lower edges 33(2), 34(2) of the inner wall 33 and the outer wall 34 each have approximately the same spacing relative to the second surface 4 of the table. With this configuration, the spacing between the upper edge 34(1) of the outer wall and the second surface 4 of the table is much greater than the corresponding spacing of the upper edge 33(1) of the inner wall, thereby exposing a portion of the outward-facing surface of the blade 14. This portion of the blade 14 is closed by a dust cover 50, as discussed below. Additionally, the outer wall 34 is slightly angled relative to the base 10, thereby the distance between the upper edge 34(1) of the inner wall 33 and the outer wall 34 is slightly greater than the distance between the lower edge 34(2) of the inner wall 33 and the outer wall 34.

[0060] The rear wall 36 of the blade cover 32 is generally flat, and the lower edge 36 (2) includes a cutout 36 (3) shaped and sized to be part of the dust receiving port 60 therein.

[0061] The front wall 35 of the blade cap 32 has a flat upper portion 35 (3) that is generally parallel to the rear wall 36, and a lower portion 35 (4) that is curved to correspond to the curved shape of the blade 14. Therefore, the lower edge 35 (2) of the front wall 35 is closer to the rear wall 36 than the upper edge 35 (1) of the front wall 35. In addition, the distance between the lower edge 35 (2) of the front wall 35 and the second surface 4 of the platform is greater than the distance between the lower edge 36 (2) of the rear wall 36 and the second surface 4 of the platform. To accommodate this difference in distance, the lower edges 33 (2) and 34 (2) of the inner wall 33 and the outer wall 34 each include angled portions 33 (4) and 34 (4) adjacent to the lower edge 35 (2) of the front wall.

[0062] The blade cap 32 is slidably and detachably connected to the dust port 60. For this purpose, the corresponding lower edges 33(2), 34(2) of the inner wall 33 and the outer wall 34 are parallel to each other and configured to form a slidably engaged relative to the corresponding parallel upper edges 72(1), 72(2) of the dust port 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the corresponding lower edges 33(2), 34(2) of the inner wall 33 and the outer wall 34 each define a groove 40 for receiving a track 65 defined by a corresponding one of the upper edges 72(1), 72(2) of the dust port. The groove 40 includes a first portion 40(1) of the groove adjacent to the rear wall 36 of the blade cap and a second portion 40(2) of the groove extending between the first portion 40(1) of the groove and the front wall 35 of the blade cap.

[0063] When the blade cover 32 is viewed in the direction facing the front wall 35 or the rear wall 36, the first portion 40 (1) of the groove has a U-shaped cross-section. In addition, the first portion 40 (1) of the groove on the lower edge 33 (2) of the inner wall 33 and the first portion 40 (1) of the groove on the lower edge 34 (2) of the outer wall 34 open towards each other.

[0064] When the blade cover 32 is viewed in the direction facing the front wall 35 or the rear wall 36, the second portion 40 (2) of the groove has a U-shaped cross-section. However, the U-shape of the second portion 40 (2) of the groove is relatively narrow compared to that of the first portion of the groove, and the second portion 40 (2) of the groove of the corresponding lower edges 33 (2) and 34 (2) of the inner wall 33 and the outer wall 34 faces away from the opening of the second surface 4 of the table.

[0065] When viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 26, the dust cover 50 is a rigid sheet with a rectangular profile. The dust cover 50 is suspended from the second surface 4 of the table on the side of the blade 14 opposite to the base 10. The dust cover 50 includes a first side 51 facing the blade 14 and an opposite second side 52 away from the blade 14. The dust cover 50 includes a first flat portion 50 (3) adjacent to the upper edge 50 (1) of the dust cover 50, and a second flat portion 50 (4) extending between the first flat portion 50 (3) and the lower edge 50 (2) of the dust cover 50. The first and second flat portions 50 (3) and 50 (4) form an obtuse angle with respect to each other.

[0066] The dust cover 50 includes a through opening 56 disposed adjacent to the upper edge 50 (1) of the dust cover. In the illustrated embodiment, the dust cover 50 includes two through openings 56 spaced apart along the upper edge 50 (1) of the dust cover. The through openings 56 receive a U-shaped strap 55 fixed to the second surface 4 of the tabletop. The strap 55 allows the dust cover 50 to pivot relative to the tabletop 2 about an axis perpendicular to the axis of rotation 26.

[0067] The dust cover 50 includes a first flange 53 extending along the front edge 50 (5) of the dust cover 50 and a second flange 54 extending along the rear edge 50 (6) of the dust cover 50. The first and second flanges 53 and 54 each project toward the base frame 10. In use, the first flange 53 covers at least a portion of the front wall 35 of the blade cover, and the second flange 54 covers at least a portion of the rear wall 36 of the blade cover.

[0068] A pair of springs 58 connect the dust cover 50 to the base frame 10. In some embodiments, the springs 58 are coil springs biased toward the outer wall 34 of the blade cover. One spring 58 extends between the base frame 10 and a fastener boss 50 (7) located adjacent to the front edge 50 (5) of the dust cover. The other spring 58 extends between the base frame 10 and a fastener boss 50 (8) located adjacent to the rear edge 50 (6) of the dust cover. In some embodiments, the springs 58 are directly connected to the base frame 10. In other embodiments, the springs 58 are indirectly connected to the base frame 10, for example via an intermediate structure such as a bracket that is itself connected to the base frame 10. Figure 1-4 As seen, the spring 58 is connected to the base 10 via a cover plate 46 that is connected to the base 10, and covers a portion of both the rear wall 36 of the blade cover and the second flange 54 of the dust cover.

[0069] The upper edge 50 (1) of the dust cover 50 is located below and aligned with the second portion 5 (2) of the blade opening 5. However, due to the biasing effect of the spring 58, the lower edge 50 (2) of the dust cover 50 is adjacent to the outer wall 34 of the blade cover. In addition, the angled first flat portion 50 (3) is directed toward the center of the enclosure 31 and downward toward the dust port 60 to guide cutting debris.

[0070] Dust port 60 provides a base plate for a containment member 31 defined by dust management component 30, and is shaped and sized to facilitate the drainage of debris collected on the base plate of containment member 31. Dust port 60 includes a tubular portion 62 and a grooved portion 72 projecting from one end of the tubular portion 62.

[0071] The tubular portion 62 is a hollow cylinder having an open first end 63 configured to connect to a dust collection hose (not shown) or a dust collection bag (not shown). The tubular portion 62 includes an open second end 64 integral with the groove portion 72. A centerline 65 of the tubular portion 62 extends through the first and second ends 63, 64 of the tubular portion. The second end 64 of the tubular portion includes a flange 66. The flange 66 protrudes from the outer surface of the tubular portion 62 and extends along a portion of its circumference. When viewed in a direction parallel to the centerline 65 of the tubular portion, the periphery 66(1) of the flange 66 has a generally triangular shape. The apex 67 of the flange 66 is diametrically opposed to the lowest extent 76 of the groove portion 72 and includes a through-hole for receiving a fastener 68. The fastener 68 is used to secure the dust port 60 to the blade cap 32.

[0072] The groove portion 72 is an upwardly opening, long, shallow U-shaped receiving portion facing the cutting edge 15 of the blade 14. The groove portion has an open first end 73 communicating with the second end 64 of the tubular portion, and a closed second end 74 angled to accommodate the curve of the lower portion 35(4) of the blade cover front wall 35. The centerline 75 of the groove portion 72 extends between the first end 73 and the second end 74 of the groove portion and is generally parallel to the centerline 65 of the tubular portion and the base 10.

[0073] The groove portion 72 forms a slidably detachable connection with the blade cap 32. Specifically, the corresponding upper edges 72(1), 72(2) of the groove portion 72 are parallel to each other and include tracks 65 configured to form slidably engaged with the corresponding parallel lower edges 33(2), 34(2) of the inner wall 33 and outer wall 34 of the blade cap 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the corresponding upper edges 72(1), 72(2) of the groove portion 72 each define a track 65 that is received in a corresponding recess 40 provided on the lower edges 33(2), 34(2) of the blade cap and is translatable along the recess 40. Each track 65 includes a first track portion 65(1) adjacent to the first end 73 of the groove portion and a second track portion 65(2) extending between the first track portion 65(1) and the second end 74 of the groove.

[0074] When the dust port 60 is viewed in a direction facing the front wall 35 or the rear wall 36 (e.g., in a direction parallel to the center lines 65, 75 of the tubular portion 65 and the groove portion 75), the first track portion 65 (1) has a U-shaped cross-section. The U-shaped track portion 65 (1) is formed by providing an L-shaped flange closely spaced from the upper edges 72 (1), 72 (2) of the groove portion on the outer surface of the groove portion 72. With this configuration, the upper edges 72 (1), 72 (2) of the groove portion provide a portion of the U-shaped track portion 65 (1), each opening towards the second surface 4 of the table. When the dust port 60 is fully assembled with the blade cover 32, each of the first track portions 65 (1) resides within the corresponding one of the recessed first portions 40 (1).

[0075] The second track portion 65 (2) is formed by the corresponding upper edges 72 (1), 72 (2) of the groove portion 72 (e.g., the L-shaped flange is omitted). When the dust port 60 is fully assembled with the blade cover 32, each of the second track portions 65 (2) extends into the corresponding groove second portion 40 (2).

[0076] In use, the dust port 60 is connected to the second end 38 of the blade cover 32 via the engagement between the blade cover groove 40 and the dust port track 65, thus closing the blade cover and opening the second end 38. The dust port 60 can be selectively removed from the blade cover 32 by removing the fastener 68 and then sliding the dust port 60 toward the rear of the table saw 1. Due to the configuration of the groove 40 and the track 65, the dust port 60 can move relative to the blade cover 32 in a plane parallel to the working surface 3.

[0077] As previously discussed, the dust management assembly 30 is positioned on the opposite side of the base 20 relative to the motor assembly 20. The blade cover 32 is supported relative to the blade 14 by a bracket 42 extending through the base opening. With this configuration, the blade cover 32 and the dust port 60 move in unison with the motor assembly 20, and therefore also with the blade 14. Although the upper portion of the dust cover 50 is pivotally connected to the second surface 4 of the work surface, the dust cover 50 is connected to the blade cover 32 via a spring 58 that biases the dust cover 50 against the outer wall 34 of the blade cover. With this configuration, the dust cover 50 covers the outer wall 34 of the blade cover regardless of the position of the blade cover 32 and the dust port 60 relative to the work surface 2. Furthermore, with this configuration, the dust management assembly 30 tightly seals the portion of the blade 14 located below the work surface 2.

[0078] refer to Figure 24Although the dust cover 50 is described above as a rigid sheet, it is not limited to this configuration. In other embodiments, the dust cover 50 may be a flexible sheet material, such as woven fabric, fine mesh, or rubber pad. In yet another embodiment, the dust cover 50 may include two flexible sheets 90, 92 suspended from the second surface 4 of the tabletop, one sheet on each side of the blade 14.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the table saw 1 is cabinetless, and the tabletop support structure includes a set of legs 8. This configuration is lighter than some cabinet-type support structures and allows easy access to accessories stored under the tabletop 2. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments of the table saw 1, the tabletop support structure may be an enclosed cabinet, or a combination of legs and cabinet elements.

[0080] Although the blade cover 32 is described above as having a groove 40 that forms a sliding connection with a track 65 disposed on the dust port 60, the dust management assembly 30 is not limited to this configuration. For example, in other embodiments, the blade cover 32 may be formed to have a track received in a corresponding groove disposed on the dust port 60. In still other embodiments, the blade cover 32 and the dust port 60 may be detachably connected using other types of connections, such as, but not limited to, snap-fit ​​or press-fit connections.

[0081] The foregoing describes in detail optional illustrative embodiments of the power tool and dust management assembly. It should be understood that only structures deemed necessary to illustrate the power tool and dust management assembly are described herein. Other conventional structures, as well as those structures of auxiliary and accessory components of the power tool and dust management assembly, are considered to be known and understood by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, while working examples of the power tool and dust management assembly have been described above, the power tool and dust management assembly is not limited to the above working examples and various design changes can be made without departing from the power tool and dust management assembly as set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. A power tool, comprising: The countertop includes The working surface is positioned on the first side of the table. A second surface of the tabletop is disposed on a second side of the tabletop, the first side and the second side being on opposite sides of the tabletop, and A blade opening extending between the working surface and the second surface of the table; A rigid base frame, which is supported on the second surface of the platform; A motor assembly, the motor assembly including a motor and supported on the base frame in such a way that the motor assembly is movable relative to the base frame between a first position and a second position; A blade, driven by the motor to rotate about a rotation axis, the blade extending through the blade opening; as well as Dust management component, the dust management component comprising: A blade cover fixed to the motor assembly and surrounding the blade on a portion disposed on the second side of the table, wherein the upper edge of the inner wall of the blade cover is aligned with the edge of the blade opening; A dust cover is pivotally connected to the second surface of the tabletop in the following manner: the inner surface of the dust cover faces the outer wall of the blade cover, wherein the upper edge of the dust cover is located below and aligned with the opposite edges of the blade opening, and wherein the dust cover includes a first flat portion adjacent to the upper edge of the dust cover, and a second flat portion extending downward and inward between the first flat portion and the lower edge of the dust cover, the first flat portion and the second flat portion forming an obtuse angle with respect to each other; and A dust port that can be detachably connected to the blade cover and configured to collect debris generated by the cutting action of the blade.

2. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein, The motor assembly and the dust management assembly are mounted on opposite sides of the base frame.

3. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein... The blade extends through the blade opening in such a way that the first blade surface faces a first portion of the blade opening, and the second blade surface faces a second portion of the blade opening.

4. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein The power tools are cabinet-free, and The dust management component surrounds the portion of the blade that protrudes from the blade opening on the second side of the work surface, thereby acting as a barrier to prevent access to the blade from the second side of the work surface.

5. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein The base frame extends from the second surface of the platform and has a through-hole opening. The bracket connects the dust management component to the motor component, and The bracket extends through the straight opening in the base frame.

6. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein, The dust port is movable relative to the blade cover in a plane parallel to the working surface.

7. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein, The dust cover is formed of a flexible sheet material.

8. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein The blade cap includes The inner wall between the blade and the base frame is positioned. The first end of the open blade cap adjacent to the inner wall and facing the second surface of the platform, and An open blade cover second end that is adjacent to the inner wall and opposite to the first end of the blade cover; The dust cover is positioned on the opposite side of the blade relative to the inner wall of the blade cover; the dust cover is movable relative to the blade cover. The dust port can be detachably connected to the second end of the blade cover.

9. The power tool according to claim 8, wherein, The dust cover is connected to the base frame by a spring, and the dust cover is spring-biased toward the blade cover.

10. The power tool according to claim 8, wherein The dust port includes a tubular portion and a grooved portion protruding from one end of the tubular portion. The grooved portion includes a first pair of parallel edges extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubular portion, and each of the first pair of parallel edges is configured to provide either a track or a groove. The second end of the blade cap includes a second pair of parallel edges, and each of the second pair of parallel edges is configured to provide the other of a track or groove. The first pair of parallel edges is configured to engage with the second pair of parallel edges and translate relative to the second pair of parallel edges.

11. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein, The blade cap includes An inner wall disposed between the blade and the base, the inner wall being parallel to the first surface of the blade, and An outer wall is disposed on the side of the blade opposite to the base, the outer wall being at an angle relative to the first surface of the blade.

12. The power tool according to claim 11, wherein The blade includes a curved periphery, and The blade cap includes A first sidewall is disposed on one side of the blade corresponding to the cutting edge of the blade, the first sidewall extending between the inner wall and the outer wall, and A second sidewall extends between the inner wall and the outer wall, and the second sidewall is positioned on the opposite side of the blade relative to the first sidewall. in, The second sidewall has a curved portion shaped to correspond to the curved periphery of the blade.

13. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein, The blade cap includes A wall surrounding a portion of the blade, the wall comprising The open first end facing the second surface of the platform, and An open second end is opposite to the first end and forms a connection with the dust port. And among them When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the blade, the size of the first end is larger than the size of the second end.

14. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein, The dust cover covers the gap between the blade cover and the second surface of the worktable.

15. The power tool according to claim 1, wherein, The dust management component forms a barrier around the blade and includes a downwardly curved surface that guides debris to the dust port.

16. A power tool comprising: The countertop includes The working surface of the first side of the platform is defined. A second surface of the tabletop defining a second side of the tabletop, wherein the first side and the second side are on opposite sides of the tabletop, and A blade opening extending between the working surface and the second surface of the table; A rigid base frame, which is supported on the second surface of the platform; A motor assembly, the motor assembly including a motor and supported on the base frame in such a way that the motor assembly is movable relative to the base frame between a first position and a second position; A blade, driven by the motor to rotate about a rotation axis, the blade extending through the blade opening; as well as A dust management assembly, mounted on the opposite side of the base frame relative to the motor assembly, the dust management assembly comprising: A blade cover fixed to the motor assembly, the blade cover including a sidewall surrounding the blade, wherein a portion of the sidewall is disposed between the blade and the base, the sidewall defining an open blade cover first end facing the second surface of the table and an open blade cover second end opposite to the first end of the blade cover; A dust cover is pivotally connected to the second surface of the tabletop in such a way that the inner surface of the dust cover faces the outer surface of the sidewall of the blade cover; and A dust port detachably connected to the second end of the blade cover, the dust port comprising a U-shaped groove portion configured to connect to the blade cover and a tubular portion protruding from one end of the groove portion. in The grooved portion includes a first pair of parallel edges extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubular portion, and each of the first pair of parallel edges is configured to provide either a track or a groove. The second end of the blade cap includes a second pair of parallel edges, each of the second pair of parallel edges being configured as the other of a track or groove, and The first pair of parallel edges is configured to engage with the second pair of parallel edges and translate relative to the second pair of parallel edges. Wherein, the upper edge of the inner wall of the blade cover is aligned with the first edge of the blade opening, and The upper edge of the dust cover is located below and aligned with the second edge of the blade opening opposite the first edge, and the dust cover includes a first flat portion adjacent to the upper edge of the dust cover and a second flat portion extending downward and inward between the first flat portion and the lower edge of the dust cover, the first flat portion and the second flat portion forming an obtuse angle with respect to each other.

17. The power tool according to claim 16, wherein The blade cover sidewall includes an inner wall disposed between the blade and the base frame. The dust cover is positioned on the opposite side of the blade relative to the inner wall of the blade cover. The dust cover is movable relative to the blade cover, and The dust cover is spring-biased toward the blade cover.

18. The power tool according to claim 16, wherein, The blade cap sidewall includes: An inner wall disposed between the blade and the base, the inner wall being parallel to the first surface of the blade; and An outer wall is disposed on the side of the blade opposite to the base, the outer wall being at an angle relative to the first surface of the blade.

19. The power tool according to claim 16, wherein, The dust management component forms a barrier around the blade and includes a downwardly curved surface that guides debris to the dust port.

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