Insert saw with cutting indicator and method of operating insert saw

Abstract

This document discloses an insert saw (10) with a cutting indicator (500) and a method of operating the insert saw (10). The insert saw (10) includes a motor (90) and a spindle (100) configured to operatively attach a circular saw blade (200) to the insert saw (10) and receive torque from the motor (90). The insert saw (10) also includes a base plate (304) and a base plate pivot (316). The insert saw (10) also includes an insertion mechanism (380) configured to be selectively actuated by a user of the insert saw (10) and to change the insert saw from a retracted position (54) (532) to an insertion position (52) and insert the circular saw blade (200) into the workpiece (98) during operative use of the insert saw (10) to cut a workpiece (98). The insert saw (10) also includes a cutting indicator configured to project light (516) onto the workpiece (98) to visually indicate the position (504) of the edge of the circular saw blade (200) on the workpiece (98).

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 044,034, filed June 25, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure is generally directed to insert saws with cutting indicators and / or methods of operating insert saws. Background Technology

[0004] An insert saw is a handheld circular saw that includes and / or is operably attached to an insert assembly that rotates relative to a base plate to insert a region of the circular saw blade through the base plate and / or into the workpiece. In some cases, the insert saw can be used such that the circular saw blade begins to contact the edge of the workpiece. In other cases, the insert saw can be used such that the circular saw blade begins to contact the central region or a flat surface of the workpiece. In both examples, when the circular saw blade is used to cut a workpiece, it may be difficult for the user of the insert saw to visually see the leading edge and / or trailing edge of the circular saw blade. Therefore, it may be difficult for the user of the insert saw to make precise cuts, especially when precise cuts terminate within the central region of the workpiece and / or do not extend across the entire workpiece. Therefore, there is a need for improved insert saws with cutting indicators and / or improved methods of operating insert saws. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This document discloses an insert saw with a cutting indicator and a method of operating the insert saw. The insert saw includes a motor and a spindle. The motor includes a motor shaft configured to rotate about an axis of rotation. The spindle is configured to operably attach a circular saw blade to the insert saw and receive torque from the motor as the motor shaft rotates about the axis of rotation. The insert saw also includes a base plate and a base plate pivot. The base plate defines a side facing the spindle and a side opposite the spindle. The base plate pivot operably attaches the spindle to the side of the base plate facing the spindle. The insert saw also includes an insertion mechanism configured to be selectively actuated by a user of the insert saw, and during the operative use of the insert saw to cut a workpiece, to change the insert saw from a retracted position to an inserted position and insert the circular saw blade into the workpiece. This change is achieved by rotating the spindle and base plate relative to each other and about the base plate pivot. The insert saw also includes a cutting indicator configured to project light onto the workpiece to visually indicate the position of the edge of the circular saw blade on the workpiece.

[0006] The method includes actuating a switch of an insert saw, and in response to the actuation, initiating rotation of the circular saw blade of the insert saw, and initiating the projection of light onto a workpiece to visually indicate the position of the edge of the circular saw blade on the workpiece. The method also includes inserting the circular saw blade into the workpiece during the rotation of the circular saw blade and during the projection of light. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example insert saw including a cutting indicator according to the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a schematic side view illustrating an insert saw including a cutting indicator according to the present disclosure, and an example of an insert saw in the insert position.

[0009] Figure 3 It is a diagram. Figure 2 A schematic side view of the insert saw in its retracted position.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a schematic top view showing an example of an insert saw including a cutting indicator according to this disclosure.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a non-simplified top view of an example of an insert saw according to this disclosure.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a non-simplified right-side view of an example of an insert saw according to this disclosure.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a non-simplified left-side view of an example of an insert saw according to this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 8 This is another non-simplified left-side view of an example of an insert saw according to this disclosure.

[0015] Figure 9 This is another non-simplified left-side view of an example of an insert saw according to this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a non-simplified front view of an example of an insert saw according to this disclosure.

[0017] Figure 11 This is a non-simplified rear view of an example of an insert saw according to this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a non-simplified top view of an example of an insert saw according to this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a non-simplified bottom view of an example of an insert saw according to this disclosure.

[0020] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for operating an insert saw according to this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Figure 1-13 Examples of the insert saw 10 and / or its components according to this disclosure are provided. Elements for similar or at least substantially similar purposes are described. Figure 1-13 Each figure in the document is labeled with similar reference numerals, and these elements may be disregarded herein. Figure 1-13 Each diagram in the document will be discussed in detail. Similarly, all components may not be... Figure 1-13 Each figure in the document is labeled, but for consistency, the associated figure labels may be used in this document. References Figure 1-13 The elements, components, and / or features discussed in one or more figures may be included Figure 1-13 Any one of the pictures and / or with Figure 1-13 any one Figure 1 Use it without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0022] Typically, elements that may be included in a particular embodiment are shown in solid lines, while optional elements are shown in dashed lines. However, elements shown in solid lines may not be necessary for all embodiments, and in some embodiments may be omitted without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example of an insert saw 10 including a cutting indicator 500 according to the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a schematic side view illustrating an insert saw 10 including a cutting indicator 500 according to the present disclosure, and an example of an insert saw in insert positioning 52 according to the present disclosure. Figure 3 It is a diagram. Figure 2 The side view of the insertion saw in retracted position 54. Figure 4 This is a schematic top view showing an example of an insert saw 10 including a cutting indicator 500 according to the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 5-13 This is a non-simplified schematic diagram of an example of the insertion saw 10 according to this disclosure. More specifically, Figure 5 The illustration shows a top view of the insertion saw 10, and... Figure 6 The illustration shows the right-side view of the inserted saw 10. Figure 7 The illustration shows a left-side view of the insertion saw 10, with the insertion saw in insertion position 52. Figure 8 The illustration shows a left-side view of the insert saw 10, with the insert saw in its retracted position 54. Figure 9 Illustration Figure 8The left-hand view shows several overlays that have been removed. Figure 10 This is the front view of the inserted saw 10. Figure 11 This is the rear view of the inserted saw 10. Figure 12 This is a top view of the insertion saw 10, and Figure 13 This is a bottom view of the insertion saw 10.

[0025] like Figure 1 As may be best illustrated, the insert saw 10 includes a motor 90, which includes a motor shaft 92 configured to rotate about an axis of rotation 94. The insert saw 10 also includes a spindle 100 configured to receive torque from the motor 90 as the motor shaft 92 rotates about the axis of rotation. Figure 1-3 The dashed lines in the middle and Figure 4 , Figure 6-11 and Figure 13 As shown by the solid lines, the insert saw 10 may further include a circular saw blade 200. The circular saw blade 200, when present, can be operatively attached to the insert saw via a spindle 100 and / or can be configured to rotate with the spindle. In other words, the spindle 100 can be configured to operatively attach the circular saw blade 200 to the insert saw 10 and / or rotate the circular saw blade in response to receiving torque from the motor 90. Rotation of the circular saw blade 200 facilitates cutting the workpiece 98 with the circular saw blade, such as... Figure 1-4 As shown schematically in the diagram.

[0026] like Figure 1-3 and Figure 5-13 As shown, the insertion saw 10 also includes a substrate 304. The substrate 304 defines a mandrel-facing side 308 and a mandrel-opposite side 312. As... Figure 1-3 , Figure 7-9 and Figure 13 As shown, the insertion saw 10 also includes a base plate pivot 316. The base plate pivot 316 operatively attaches the motor 90 and / or the spindle 100 to the spindle-facing side 308 of the base plate 304. In some examples, the motor 90 and the spindle 100 may form part of the insertion assembly 84, or as may be referred to herein as forming part of the insertion assembly 84, such as... Figure 1-3 As shown in the diagram. In some such examples, the substrate pivot 316 may be referred to herein as operatively attaching the insertion component 84 to the substrate 304 and / or allowing the insertion component 84 to rotate relative to the substrate 304, such as rotating about the pivot axis 318 of the substrate pivot.

[0027] Continue to refer to Figure 1-3The insert saw 10 includes an insert mechanism 380. The insert mechanism 380 may include any suitable structure that can be adapted, configured, designed, and / or constructed to be selectively actuated by the user of the insert saw and during the operation of the insert saw to cut the workpiece 98. Selective actuation may allow and / or cause the insert saw to cut from, for example, a workpiece 98. Figure 3 The retraction positioning 54 shown in the diagram transforms to, for example, in... Figure 1-2 The insertion positioning 52 is illustrated in the diagram. This shift can be achieved via rotation of the spindle 100 and the base plate 304 relative to each other, about the base plate pivot 316, and / or about the pivot axis 318 of the base plate pivot. In other words, and in some examples, this shift can be achieved via rotation of the insertion assembly 84 and the base plate 304 relative to each other, about the base plate pivot, and / or about the pivot axis. This rotation can cause the circular saw blade 200 to rotate, move, extend, and / or insert through the opposite side 312 of the spindle of the base plate 304 and / or enter into the workpiece 98.

[0028] In other words, the spindle 100 can be configured to pivot relative to the base plate 304 within a range of relative positioning or relative angles, which can be defined by a fully inserted positioning and a fully retracted direction. For each relative positioning within this range, the circular saw blade 200 can extend a corresponding amount on the opposite side 312 of the spindle, thereby providing a corresponding maximum cutting depth for the circular saw.

[0029] If possible Figure 1-4 As shown in the optimal configuration, the insertion saw 10 also includes a cutting indicator 500. (As shown in the optimal configuration...) Figure 1-2 and Figure 4 As shown, the cutting indicator 500 is configured to project light 516 or at least one light 516 onto the workpiece 98. The position of the light 516 on the workpiece visually indicates the position 504 of the edge of the circular saw blade 200, such as the leading edge and / or trailing edge of the circular saw blade, on the workpiece 98.

[0030] When using an insert saw 10 to cut workpiece 98, and as referenced in this article Figure 14As described in more detail in method 1000, switch 65 can be actuated, which allows and / or facilitates the supply of current to at least one other structure of the insert saw, such as motor 90 and / or cutting indicator 500. Actuation of switch 65 and / or receipt of current can cause motor 90 to rotate motor shaft 92, which in turn causes circular saw blade 200 to rotate, such as via spindle 100. Actuation of switch 65 can also activate cutting indicator 500 to project light 516 onto workpiece 98, and the position of the light on the workpiece can visually indicate to the user of the insert saw the position 504 of at least one edge of the circular saw blade. In other words, insert saw 10 including cutting indicator 500 can provide the user with additional information and / or make it easier for the user to identify the position 504 of the edge of circular saw blade 200. This can allow and / or facilitate improved or more precise cutting within workpiece 98 and / or allow the user to make precise cuts within workpiece 98 without the user directly observing the edge of the circular saw blade.

[0031] In some examples, the cutting indicator 500 may include and / or a leading edge cutting indicator 501, which may be configured to project a ray 516 in the form of a leading edge ray 517, as may be possible. Figure 2 and Figure 4 As best shown. The leading edge cutting indicator 501 and / or its leading edge ray 517 can be configured to visually indicate position 504 on the workpiece 98 in the form of a leading edge position 505 of the leading edge of the circular saw blade 200, such as being accessible to the leading edge region 305 of the substrate 304. In some such examples, when the insert saw 10 is in both insert position 52 and retraction position 54, the leading edge cutting indicator 501 can be adapted, configured, designed, and / or constructed to project ray 516 onto the workpiece 98 in the form of leading edge ray 517. In other words, the leading edge cutting indicator 501 can project leading edge ray 517 onto the workpiece 98 regardless of the rotational positioning of the substrate 304 and the spindle 100 about the substrate pivot 316 and / or its pivot axis 318.

[0032] In some such examples, the leading edge ray 517 may indicate the position of the leading edge of the circular saw blade when or only when the insert saw is in the fully inserted position. In other words, the position of the leading edge of the circular saw blade within the workpiece may vary with the relative positioning between the base plate and the mandrel; however, the position of the leading edge ray 517 on the workpiece may not vary with this relative positioning. However, this is not required in all embodiments, and within the scope of this disclosure, the position of the leading edge ray 517 on the workpiece 98 may vary with the relative positioning between the base plate and the mandrel to indicate the position of the leading edge of the circular saw blade, regardless of the relative positioning between the base plate and the mandrel and / or the entire range of motion.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, and in some examples, the cutting indicator 500 may include and / or a trailing edge cutting indicator 502, which may be configured to project a ray 516 in the form of a trailing edge ray 518, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As best shown in the diagram. The trailing edge cut indicator 502 and / or its trailing edge ray 518 can be configured to visually indicate position 504 on the workpiece 98 in the form of the trailing edge position 506 of the trailing edge of the circular saw blade 200, such as the trailing edge region 306 that can be approached by the substrate 304. In some such examples, the trailing edge cut indicator 502 can be adapted, configured, designed, and / or constructed to project light 516 onto the workpiece 98 in the form of the trailing edge ray 518 when the insert saw 10 is in the insert position 52, only when the insert saw is in the insert position, when the insert saw is in the fully inserted position, and / or only when the insert saw is in the fully inserted position. In other words, when the insert saw is not in the insert or fully inserted position, the trailing edge cut indicator 502 may not project the trailing edge ray 518 onto the workpiece 98. In some such examples, the light source that projects the trailing edge ray 518 onto the workpiece can be blocked unless the insert saw is in the insert or fully inserted position.

[0034] The cutting indicator 500, including the leading edge cutting indicator 501 and / or the trailing edge cutting indicator 502, can use light 516 to indicate the position 504 in any suitable manner. As an example, and possibly as... Figure 4 As best shown, the cutting indicator 500 can project one or more rays 516 in a direction perpendicular or at least substantially perpendicular to the saw blade plane 202 in which the circular saw blade 200 can be configured to rotate.

[0035] The cutting indicator 500 may include any suitable structure. As an example, the cutting indicator 500 may include a light source 520, which may be configured to generate, emit, and / or project light 516. Examples of the light source 520 include at least a cutting indicator laser and / or a cutting indicator light-emitting diode (LED).

[0036] The cutting indicator 500 and / or its light source 520 can project light 516 in any suitable manner. As an example, the light source 520 can be configured to project collimated light 524, such as by... Figure 4 As shown by the dashed line, collimated light can define ray 516. As another example, light source 520 can be configured to project a light arc 526, as shown by... Figure 4The textured area is shown in the image. In some such examples, ray 516 may be defined by a portion of an arc of light incident on workpiece 98. In some such examples, light source 520 may be configured to project light or an arc of light through circular saw blade 200. In such examples, a first portion 528 of light may be incident on circular saw blade 200 and a second portion 530 of light may be incident on workpiece 98. In some examples, the second portion of light may define ray 516. In some examples, position 504 may be indicated on workpiece 98 by a transition 532 from the shadow of the circular saw blade to the ray.

[0037] As discussed, the insert saw 10 may include a switch 65 configured to selectively supply and / or apply current to at least one other component of the insert saw, such as the motor 90 and / or the cutting indicator 500. In some examples, the cutting indicator 500 may be configured to indicate the position of the circular saw blade edge via a projected light beam 516 when or only when the switch selectively applies current to at least one other component of the insert saw. Alternatively, and in some examples, the cutting indicator may be configured to activate the projection of the light beam 516 when the switch selectively applies current to at least one other component of the insert saw. In some such examples, the cutting indicator may also be configured to indicate the position of the circular saw blade edge via the projection of the light beam 516 for at least a threshold indication time. This may include indicating the position for at least the threshold indication time, regardless of the actuation state of the switch 65. Such a configuration can provide the user with information about the position of the circular saw blade edge, even when the switch 65 is not driven and / or pressed, or is not continuously driven and / or pressed. Examples of threshold indication times include at least 5 seconds, at least 10 seconds, at least 15 seconds, at least 20 seconds, at least 25 seconds, at least 30 seconds, up to 60 seconds, up to 50 seconds, up to 40 seconds, up to 30 seconds, up to 20 seconds, and / or up to 10 seconds.

[0038] In some examples, switch 65 may include an initial actuation position and a subsequent actuation position. When the switch is in the initial actuation position, it can apply current to a cutting indicator and / or the cutting indicator can indicate the position of the circular saw blade edge on the workpiece. When in the subsequent actuation position, the switch can apply current to both the cut-off indicator and the motor. This configuration allows the user to determine the position of the circular saw blade edge before the blade rotates.

[0039] Switch 65 may form part of insert assembly 84. In other words, switch 65 may be operably attached to substrate 304 via substrate pivot 316 and / or may be configured to pivot with insert assembly and / or relative to substrate about substrate pivot. This configuration may allow and / or facilitate improved control of the insert saw and / or switch actuation by the user.

[0040] In contrast, at least a portion of the cutting indicator 500, such as a portion of the cutting indicator 500 projecting light 516 and / or, for example, a light source 520, may be operatively attached to the substrate 304 and / or may form part of the substrate 304. In other words, at least a portion of the cutting indicator 500 may be operatively attached to the spindle 100, the motor 90, and / or the insertion assembly 84 via a substrate pivot. In some examples, the light source 520 may be operatively attached to the substrate 304. In some such examples, the cutting indicator 500 may also include an electrical conductor 540, such as... Figure 2-3 As shown, it can extend between the insertion assembly 84 and the light source 520 to power the light source. In some examples, the light source 520 can be operatively attached to the insertion assembly 84. In some such examples, the cutting indicator 500 may also include an optical fiber cable 542, such as... Figure 2-3 As shown, it can extend between the insertion assembly 84 and / or its light source 520 and project light 516 onto the workpiece 98. Such a configuration allows and / or facilitates the projection of light 516 from the area of ​​the insertion saw 10 near and / or close to the workpiece 98 (e.g., substrate 304).

[0041] In some examples of insert saw 10, and as is possible Figure 2-3 As best shown, the substrate pivot 316 can operatively attach the trailing edge region 86 of the insertion assembly 84 to the trailing edge region 306 of the substrate 304. In other words, the substrate pivot 316 can be configured to allow the leading edge region 85 of the insertion assembly 84 to move toward and / or away from the leading edge region 305 of the substrate 304 via rotation about the substrate pivot.

[0042] In some examples of insert saw 10, and as is possible Figure 1-3 As shown, the insertion mechanism 380 may include an insertion release mechanism 87. The insertion release mechanism 87, when present, can be configured to be pushed and / or actuated by a user to allow the insertion saw to transition from a retracted position to an inserted position. Examples of the insertion release mechanism 87 include any suitable mechanical pivot, mechanical switch, linkage, and / or surface configurable to receive actuation force from the user.

[0043] Also Figure 1-3As shown, the insertion mechanism 380 may include a retraction positioning lock 88. The retraction positioning lock 88, when present, can be configured to selectively hold the insertion saw 10 in a retracted position. In such a configuration, the insertion release mechanism 87 can be configured to be selectively actuated to release the retraction positioning lock and / or allow the insertion saw to transition from the retracted position to the insertion position. Examples of the retraction positioning lock 88 include any suitable latch, snap-fit, mechanical lock, and / or one or more structures that can be configured to resist rotation about the base plate pivot 316 when the insertion release mechanism 87 is not actuated by the user, and / or allow rotation about the base plate pivot when the insertion release mechanism is actuated by the user.

[0044] The insert saw 10 may include any suitable type or style of insert saw adapted, configured, designed, and / or constructed to cut workpieces using the circular saw blade 200. Examples of insert saws 10 include handheld insert saws 12 and / or rail saws 40, such as... Figure 1-3 The diagram is schematically shown. In some examples, the insert saw 10 may include structures and / or features from the two saws described above, and / or may incorporate the functionality of the two saws described above. As an example, and as discussed in more detail herein, a given insert saw 10 may be and / or may incorporate the functionality of a handheld insert saw 12 and / or a track saw 40. Therefore, the insert saw 10 according to this disclosure may include one or more features disclosed herein, but the insert saw 10 need not include all the features disclosed herein.

[0045] Motor 90 may include any suitable structure that can provide prime mover power for the rotation of motor shaft 92 and / or for the rotation and / or actuation of circular saw blade 200. Examples of motor 90 include electric motors, AC electric motors, DC electric motors, brushless DC motors, variable speed motors, and / or single speed motors.

[0046] like Figure 1-3 The dashed lines in the middle and Figure 5 , Figure 7-9 and Figure 11-12 As shown by the solid lines, the insert saw 10 may include a gripping area 60 configured to be gripped and / or held by a user during insert saw operation. The gripping area 60, when present, may also be referred to herein as and / or may be a handle or gripper.

[0047] For example Figure 1-3 The dashed lines in the middle and Figure 5 and Figure 7-9As shown by the solid lines, the insert saw 10 may include at least one switch 65. As discussed, the switch 65(one or more) may be configured to be selectively actuated by a user of the insert saw to enable and / or allow the supply of current to at least one other component of the insert saw and / or allow power operation of at least one other component of the insert saw. As an example, selective actuation of the switch 65 may be used to operate the motor controller of the insert saw to selectively supply and / or apply current to the motor 90, enabling the motor controller to selectively apply current to the motor and / or allow or direct the motor to provide prime mover power for rotation of the motor shaft. In some examples, the current may be used to power or directly power at least one other component of the insert saw, such as the motor 90. In some such examples, the current may also be referred to herein as an electrical power signal. In some examples, the current may be an electrical data signal sent to at least one other component of the insert saw, such as the motor controller of the insert saw. In some such examples, the current may also be referred to herein as a data signal and / or as an electrical data signal. Examples of the switch 65 include an electric switch, a normally open electric switch, a momentary electric switch, and / or a locked momentary electric switch.

[0048] The insert saw 10 may include any suitable power source and corresponding power structure 70 for powering the motor 90. Examples of power structures include a power cord 72 and / or a battery 74, such as... Figure 1-3 As shown by the dashed line in the image.

[0049] Also Figure 1-3 The dashed lines in the middle and Figure 5-13 As shown by the solid line in the figure, the insert saw 10 may include a saw blade guard 80. The saw blade guard 80, when present, may be configured to cover, hold, and / or accommodate at least one area of ​​the circular saw blade 200 in order to prevent or reduce the possibility of contact between the user and the circular saw blade.

[0050] In some examples, and as discussed, the insert saw 10 may be a rail saw 40. In an example of the insert saw 10 as a rail saw 40, the substrate 304 may include a rib receiving channel 324, which may be configured to receive elongated, raised ribs 44 of the rail 42, as is possible. Figure 1As best shown herein. The track 42 may also be referred to herein as an elongated track 42 and may be formed from one or more elongated track segments, or track segments 46, which may be operably attached to each other to define any suitable track length. During operation of the track saw 40, the track 42 is operably attached or clamped to the workpiece 98 such that the edge of the track corresponds to a desired cutting line suitable for the track saw. Subsequently, the track saw may be positioned relative to the track such that the raised elongated ribs 44 are positioned within the rib receiving channel 324; and the track saw may then be translated along at least a portion of the length of the elongated track, thereby producing a straight cut along the desired cutting line.

[0051] Figure 14 This illustrates the operation of an insert saw (such as...) according to this disclosure. Figure 1-13 A flowchart illustrating an example of method 1000 for inserting a circular saw blade (10). Method 1000 includes actuating a switch at 1010 and initiating rotation at 1020. Method 1000 also includes initiating projection at 1030 and may include maintaining projection at 1040. Method 1000 may also include stopping actuation at 1050 and inserting the circular saw blade at 1060.

[0052] The actuation switch at 1010 can include any suitable switch for actuating the insert saw. This can include an actuation switch to selectively apply or supply current to at least one other component of the insert saw. Examples of at least one other component of the insert saw are disclosed herein. An example of a switch is disclosed herein with reference to switch 65.

[0053] In some examples of method 1000, actuation at 1010 may include actuating the switch to an initial actuated position. In some such examples, activation at 1030 may be in response to actuating the switch to the initial actuated position. In some such examples, actuation at 1010 may also include actuating or subsequently actuating the switch to a subsequent actuated position different from the initial actuated position. In some such examples, activation at 1020 may be in response to actuating the switch to a subsequent actuated position.

[0054] Initiating rotation at 1020 may include initiating rotation of the circular saw blade of the insert saw. This may include applying torque to the circular saw blade using a motor of the circular saw, via a motor shaft of the motor, and / or via a spindle of the circular saw. An example of a motor is disclosed herein with reference to motor 90. An example of a motor shaft is disclosed herein with reference to motor shaft 92. An example of a spindle is disclosed herein with reference to spindle 100. Initiation at 1020 may be in response to actuation at 1010, at least partially in response to actuation at 1010, after actuation at 1010, and / or as a result of actuation at 1010.

[0055] Initiating projection at 1030 may include initiating the projection of light onto the workpiece. This may include initiating the projection of the light to indicate or visually indicate the position of the edge of the circular saw blade on the workpiece and / or to the user of the circular saw, so as to allow and / or facilitate improved cutting accuracy in the workpiece and / or with the circular saw blade. Examples of light rays are disclosed herein with reference to light ray 516, leading edge light ray 517, and / or trailing edge light ray 518. Initiation at 1030 may be responsive to, at least partially responsive to, actuation at 1010, after, and / or a result of actuation at 1010. Additionally or alternatively, initiation at 1030 may be performed before, during, and / or at least partially simultaneously with initiation at 1020 and / or rotation of the circular saw blade.

[0056] In some examples, initiation at 1030 may include initiating the projection of a leading-edge ray onto the workpiece. In some examples, initiation at 1030 may include initiating the projection of a trailing-edge ray onto the workpiece. In some such examples, initiating the projection of a trailing-edge ray onto the workpiece may be in response to an insertion at 1060 and / or as a result of an insertion at 1060.

[0057] In some examples, the projection of light involves projecting light through a circular saw blade. This can include projection such that a first portion of the light is incident on the circular saw blade and / or that a second portion of the light is projected through the circular saw blade and / or incident on the workpiece. In some such examples, the second portion of the light defines the ray. In some such examples, the position of the edge of the circular saw blade can be indicated on the workpiece by the transition from the shadow of the circular saw blade to the light.

[0058] Maintaining projection at 1040 can include keeping the light projected onto the workpiece for at least a threshold indication time. This can include maintaining projection regardless of the actuation state of the switch. In other words, stopping actuation at 1050 can include stopping the actuation of the switch during the holding period at 1040. Still in other words, holding at 1040 can include holding after stopping at 1050 during execution. Examples of threshold indication times are disclosed herein.

[0059] Inserting a circular saw blade at 1060 may include inserting the circular saw blade into the workpiece. Insertion at 1060 may be performed during rotation of the circular saw blade and / or during the projection of light onto the workpiece. Therefore, and at least after insertion at 1060, light visibly indicates the position of the edge of the circular saw blade within and on the workpiece.

[0060] In some examples, insertion at 1060 may include pivoting an insertion assembly of the insertion saw relative to the substrate of the insertion saw and / or about the substrate of the insertion saw. Examples of insertion assemblies are disclosed herein with reference to insertion assembly 84. In some such examples, rotation may include rotating the leading edge of the insertion assembly toward the leading edge of the substrate.

[0061] In this disclosure, several illustrative, non-exclusive examples have been discussed and / or presented in the context of flowcharts, wherein methods are shown and described as a series of boxes or steps. Unless specifically set forth in the appended description, within the scope of this disclosure, the order of boxes may differ from the order shown in the flowcharts, including two or more boxes (or steps) occurring in different orders and / or simultaneously.

[0062] As used herein, the term “and / or” placed between the first entity and the second entity means (1) the first entity, (2) the second entity, and (3) one of the first entity and the second entity. Multiple entities listed using “and / or” should be interpreted in the same way, i.e., “one or more” of the entities thus combined. In addition to the entities specifically identified by the clause “and / or”, other entities may optionally exist, whether related to or unrelated to those specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “including,” a reference to “A and / or B” may in one embodiment refer only to A (optionally including entities other than B); in another embodiment, refer only to B (optionally including entities other than A); and in yet another embodiment, refer to both A and B (optionally including other entities). These entities may refer to elements, actions, structures, steps, operations, values, etc.

[0063] As used herein, the phrase “at least one” in a list of one or more entities should be understood to mean at least one entity selected from any one or more entities in the entity list, but is not necessarily required to include at least one of every entity specifically listed in the entity list, or excludes any combination of entities in the entity list. This definition also allows for the optional presence of entities other than those specifically identified in the entity list referred to by the phrase “at least one,” whether related to or unrelated to those specifically identified entities. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and / or B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B”, or, equivalently, “at least one of A and B”) in one embodiment may refer to at least one A, optionally including more than one A, while B is absent (and optionally including entities other than B); in another embodiment, it refers to at least one B, optionally including more than one B, while A is absent (and optionally including entities other than A); in yet another embodiment, it refers to at least one A, optionally including more than one A, and at least one B, optionally including more than one B, while A is absent (and optionally including other entities). In other words, the phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” and “and / or” are open-ended expressions that are both connected and separate in operation. For example, the expressions “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” and “A, B, and / or C” can mean A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, A, B, and C together, and any of the above that may optionally be combined with at least one other entity.

[0064] Where any patent, patent application or other reference is incorporated herein by reference and (1) defines a term in a manner inconsistent with the unincorporated portion of this disclosure or any other incorporated reference and / or (2) otherwise defines a term in a manner inconsistent with the unincorporated portion of this disclosure or any other incorporated reference, the unincorporated portion of this disclosure shall prevail, and the term or incorporated disclosure therein shall prevail only with respect to the reference that defines the term and / or the originally existing incorporated disclosure.

[0065] As used herein, the terms “suitable” and “configured” mean that an element, component, or other subject matter is designed and / or intended to perform a given function. Therefore, the use of the terms “suitable” and “configured” should not be construed as meaning that a given element, component, or other subject matter is merely “capable” of performing a given function, but rather that the element, component, and / or other subject matter is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed for performing that function. Also within the scope of this disclosure, elements, components, and / or other described subject matter that are described as suitable for performing a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being configured to perform that function, and vice versa.

[0066] As used herein, the phrases “for example,” “as an example,” and / or simply the term “example,” when used with reference to one or more components, features, details, structures, embodiments, and / or methods according to this disclosure, are intended to convey illustrative, non-exclusive examples of the components, features, details, structures, embodiments, and / or methods according to this disclosure. Therefore, the described components, features, details, structures, embodiments, and / or methods are not intended to be limiting, essential, or exclusive / exhaustive; and other components, features, details, structures, embodiments, and / or methods, including those structurally and / or functionally similar and / or equivalent, are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0067] As used herein, when modifying degree or relation, "at least substantially" can include not only the "substantial" degree or relation, but also the full extent of the degree or relation. A substantial amount of the degree or relation can include at least 75% of the degree or relation. For example, an object at least substantially formed of material includes an object in which at least 75% of the object is formed of material, and also includes an object entirely formed of material. A first length at least substantially as long as the second length includes a first length within 75% of the second length, and also includes a first length as long as the second length.

[0068] Illustrative, non-exclusive examples of circular saws and methods according to this disclosure are given in the following enumerated paragraphs. Within the scope of this disclosure, the various steps of the methods described herein (including those enumerated in the following enumerated paragraphs) may additionally or optionally be referred to as “steps” for performing the actions described herein.

[0069] A1. An insert saw, comprising:

[0070] A motor, comprising a motor shaft configured to rotate about a rotation axis;

[0071] A spindle configured to operably attach a circular saw blade to an insert saw and receive torque from a motor as the motor shaft rotates about an axis of rotation.

[0072] A substrate, which is defined to face the mandrel side and the opposite side of the mandrel;

[0073] A substrate pivot that operatively attaches the mandrel to the mandrel-facing side of the substrate;

[0074] An insertion mechanism, configured to be selectively actuated by the user of the insertion saw and to cut the workpiece during the operational use of the insertion saw, transitions the insertion saw from a retracted position to an insertion position via rotation of the spindle and base plate relative to each other and about the base plate pivot, and inserts the circular saw blade into the workpiece.

[0075] A cutting indicator configured to project light onto a workpiece to visually indicate the position of the edge of a circular saw blade on the workpiece.

[0076] A2. The insert saw according to paragraph A1, wherein the cutting indicator includes a leading edge cutting indicator, and further wherein the light is a leading edge light, the leading edge light being configured to visually indicate the leading edge position of the circular saw blade on the workpiece.

[0077] A3. The insert saw according to paragraph A2, wherein the leading edge cutting indicator is configured to project light onto the workpiece when the insert saw is in both the retracted position and the insert position.

[0078] A4. The insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A3, wherein the cutting indicator includes a trailing edge cutting indicator, and further wherein the light includes a trailing edge light configured to visually indicate the trailing edge position of the circular saw blade on the workpiece.

[0079] A5. The insert saw according to paragraph A4, wherein the trailing edge cutting indicator is configured to project light onto the workpiece when at least one of the following conditions is met:

[0080] (i) When the insert saw is in the insertion position;

[0081] (ii) Only when the insert saw is in the insert position;

[0082] (iii) When the insertion saw is in the fully inserted position; and

[0083] (iv) Only when the insert saw is in the fully inserted position.

[0084] A6. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A4-A5, wherein the cutting indicator includes a trailing edge cutting indicator and a leading edge cutting indicator.

[0085] A7. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A6, wherein a cutting indicator is configured to project light in a direction at least substantially perpendicular to a saw blade plane, and the circular saw blade is configured to rotate in the saw blade plane.

[0086] A8. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A7, wherein the cutting indicator includes a light source configured to project light.

[0087] A9. The insert saw according to paragraph A8, wherein the light source includes or is configured to project light as a cutting indicator LED.

[0088] A10. The insert saw according to any of paragraphs A8-A9, wherein the light source is configured to project collimated light, wherein the collimated light defines the light ray.

[0089] A11. The insert saw according to any of paragraphs A8-A10, wherein the light source is configured to project a light arc, and further wherein the light is defined by a portion of the light arc incident on the workpiece.

[0090] A12. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A8-A11, wherein the light source is configured to project light through the circular saw blade such that a first portion of the light is incident on the circular saw blade and a second portion of the light is incident on the workpiece, wherein the second portion of the light defines the light ray.

[0091] A13. The insert saw as described in paragraph A12, wherein the position of the edge of the circular saw blade on the workpiece is indicated by the transition from the shadow of the circular saw blade to light.

[0092] A14. The insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A13, wherein the insert saw includes a switch configured to selectively supply current to at least one other component of the insert saw.

[0093] A15. The insert saw according to paragraph A14, wherein the cutting indicator is configured to indicate the position of the edge of the circular saw blade when a switch selectively applies current to at least one other part of the insert saw.

[0094] A16. The insert saw according to paragraph A15, wherein the cutting indicator is configured to indicate the position of the edge of the circular saw blade for at least a threshold indication time, wherein optionally the threshold indication time is at least one of the following: at least 5 seconds, at least 10 seconds, at least 15 seconds, at least 20 seconds, at least 25 seconds, at least 30 seconds, at most 60 seconds, at most 50 seconds, at most 40 seconds, at most 30 seconds, at most 20 seconds, and at most 10 seconds.

[0095] A17. The insert saw as described in any of paragraphs A14-A16, wherein at least one other component of the insert saw includes a motor.

[0096] A18. The insert saw as described in any of paragraphs A14-A17, wherein at least one other component of the insert saw includes a cutting indicator.

[0097] A19. The insert saw according to any of paragraphs A14-A18, wherein the switch includes an initial actuation position in which the switch applies current to the cutting indicator and a subsequent actuation position in which the switch applies current to the cutting indicator and the motor.

[0098] A20. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A14-A19, wherein the switch is operably attached to the substrate via a substrate pivot.

[0099] A21. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A20, wherein a cutting indicator is operatively attached to a substrate.

[0100] A22. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A21, wherein the cutting indicator is operably attached to the spindle via a base plate pivot.

[0101] A23. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A22, wherein a motor is operably attached to a base plate via a base plate pivot.

[0102] A24. The insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A23, wherein the insert saw includes an insert assembly that includes a spindle and a motor and is operably attached to a substrate via a substrate pivot.

[0103] A25. The insert saw according to paragraph A24, wherein the cutting indicator further comprises at least one of the following:

[0104] (i) an electrical conductor extending between the insertion component and the light source of the cutting indicator; and

[0105] (ii) An optical fiber cable operably attached to both the insertion assembly and the substrate and configured to project light.

[0106] A26. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A25, wherein a substrate pivot operatively attaches the trailing edge region of the insert assembly to the trailing edge region of the substrate.

[0107] A27. The insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A26, wherein the insert mechanism includes an insert release mechanism configured to be selectively actuated by a user to allow the insert saw to change from a retracted position to an insert position.

[0108] A28. The insertion saw according to paragraph A27, wherein the insertion mechanism further includes a retraction positioning lock configured to selectively hold the insertion saw in a retracted position, wherein the insertion release mechanism is configured to be selectively actuated to release the retraction positioning lock and allow the insertion saw to transition from the retracted position to the insertion position.

[0109] A29. An insert saw as described in any of paragraphs A1-A28, wherein the motor includes an electric motor.

[0110] A30. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A29, wherein the insert saw further includes a gripping area configured to be gripped by a user of the insert saw during operation to cut a workpiece.

[0111] A31. An insert saw according to any of paragraphs A1-A30, wherein the insert saw further includes a saw blade guard configured to prevent contact between the user and the saw blade.

[0112] A32. The insert saw as described in any of paragraphs A1-A31, wherein the insert saw further comprises at least one of the following:

[0113] (i) a power line configured to supply current to the insertion saw; and

[0114] (ii) A battery configured to supply current to the insertion saw.

[0115] A33. An insert saw as described in any of paragraphs A1-A32, wherein the insert saw is a handheld insert saw.

[0116] A34. An insert saw as described in any of paragraphs A1-A33, wherein the insert saw is a track saw.

[0117] A35. The insert saw according to paragraph A34, wherein the substrate further includes a rib receiving channel configured to receive the raised elongated ribs of the track.

[0118] A36. The insert saw according to paragraph A35, wherein the track saw further includes the track, and wherein the track includes the raised elongated rib.

[0119] B1. A method of operating an insert saw, the method comprising:

[0120] Switch to actuate the insert saw;

[0121] In response to an actuation, the rotation of the circular saw blade of the insert saw is initiated;

[0122] In response to actuation, light is projected onto the workpiece to visually indicate the position of the circular saw blade edge on the workpiece; and

[0123] The circular saw blade is inserted into the workpiece during the rotation of the circular saw blade and also during the projection of light.

[0124] B2. According to the method described in paragraph B1, wherein initiating projection includes initiating the projection of the leading edge light onto the workpiece.

[0125] B3. The method according to any of paragraphs B1-B2, wherein in response to the insertion, the initiation of projection further includes initiating the projection of trailing edge light onto the workpiece.

[0126] B4. The method according to any of paragraphs B1-B3, wherein the projection of the light includes projecting light through the circular saw blade such that a first portion of the light is incident on the circular saw blade and a second portion of the light is incident on the workpiece, wherein the second portion of the light defines the light beam.

[0127] B5. The method described in paragraph B4, wherein the position of the edge of the circular saw blade is indicated on the workpiece by the transition from the shadow of the circular saw blade to light.

[0128] B6. The method according to any of paragraphs B1-B5, wherein the method further comprises maintaining the projection of light onto the workpiece for at least a threshold indication time, optionally wherein the threshold indication time is at least one of the following: at least 5 seconds, at least 10 seconds, at least 15 seconds, at least 20 seconds, at least 25 seconds, at least 30 seconds, at most 60 seconds, at most 50 seconds, at most 40 seconds, at most 30 seconds, at most 20 seconds, and at most 10 seconds.

[0129] B7. The method described in paragraph B6, wherein the method further includes stopping the actuation switch during the holding period.

[0130] B8. The method according to any of paragraphs B1-B7, wherein actuating the switch includes actuating the switch to an initial actuated position, wherein initiating projection is in response to actuating the switch to the initial actuated position.

[0131] B9. The method according to paragraph B8, wherein after actuating the switch to the initial actuation position, actuating the switch further includes actuating the switch to a subsequent actuation position, wherein initiating rotation is in response to actuating the switch to the subsequent actuation position.

[0132] B10. The method according to any of paragraphs B1-B9, wherein the insertion includes an insertion assembly of the insertion saw that is pivoted relative to the base plate of the insertion saw and about the base plate of the insertion saw, the insertion assembly including the circular saw blade.

[0133] B11. The method according to paragraph B10, wherein the rotation includes rotating the leading edge of the insertion assembly toward the leading edge of the substrate.

[0134] B12. The method described in any of paragraphs B1-B11, wherein the insert saw comprises any suitable structure of the insert saw described in any of paragraphs A1-A36.

[0135] Industrial applicability

[0136] The insert saw disclosed in this article is applicable to the power tool industry.

[0137] It is believed that the above-described disclosure covers several independent inventions for independent use. Although each of these inventions has been disclosed in its preferred form, the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein should not be considered limiting, as many variations are possible. The subject matter of the invention includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various elements, features, functions, and / or characteristics disclosed herein. Similarly, where a claim recites "a" or "first" element or its equivalent, such a claim should be understood to include combinations of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements.

[0138] It is believed that the following claims specifically point to certain combinations and sub-combinations of one of the disclosed inventions, and that such combinations and sub-combinations are novel and non-obvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and sub-combinations of features, functions, elements, and / or characteristics may be claimed by amendments to or presentation of new claims in this application or related applications. Such amendments or new claims, whether for different or the same invention, and whether differing in scope, broader, narrower, or equivalent to the original claims, are also considered to be included within the subject matter of the invention disclosed herein.

Claims

1. An insertion saw comprising: a motor including a motor shaft configured to rotate about an axis of rotation; an arbor configured to operably attach a circular saw blade to the insertion saw and receive torque from the motor when the motor shaft rotates about the axis of rotation; a base plate defining an arbor-facing side and an arbor-opposing side; an arbor pivot operably attaching the arbor to the arbor-facing side of the base plate; an insertion mechanism configured to be selectively actuated by a user of the insertion saw and to cut a workpiece during operational use of the insertion saw to transition the insertion saw from a retracted position to an insertion position and to insert the circular saw blade into the workpiece via rotation of the arbor and the base plate relative to one another and about the arbor pivot; and a cut indicator configured to project a light ray onto the workpiece to visually indicate a location of an edge of the circular saw blade on the workpiece; wherein the cut indicator includes a light source configured to project the light ray; and wherein the light source is configured to project light through the circular saw blade such that a first portion of the light is incident on the circular saw blade and a second portion of the light is incident on the workpiece, wherein the second portion of the light defines the light ray. the cut indicator includes a leading edge cut indicator, and further wherein the light ray is a leading edge light ray configured to visually indicate a leading edge location of a leading edge of the circular saw blade on the workpiece.

2. The insertion saw according to claim 1, characterized in that the leading edge cut indicator is configured to project the light ray onto the workpiece when the insertion saw is in both the retracted position and the insertion position.

3. The insertion saw of claim 2, wherein the cut indicator includes a trailing edge cut indicator, and further wherein the light ray includes a trailing edge light ray configured to visually indicate a trailing edge location of a trailing edge of the circular saw blade on the workpiece.

4. The insertion saw according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that the trailing edge cut indicator is configured to project the light ray onto the workpiece when at least one of:

5. The insertion saw of claim 4, wherein (i) the insertion saw is in the insertion position; (ii) only when the insertion saw is in the insertion position; (iii) the insertion saw is in a fully inserted position; and (iv) only when the insertion saw is in the fully inserted position. the cut indicator includes both the trailing edge cut indicator and the leading edge cut indicator.

6. The insertion saw according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the cut indicator is configured to project the light ray in a direction that is at least substantially perpendicular to a blade plane in which the circular saw blade is configured to rotate.

7. The insertion saw of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the light source includes or is a cut indicator LED configured to project the light ray.

8. The insertion saw of claim 1, wherein the light source is configured to project collimated light, wherein the collimated light defines the light ray.

9. The insertion saw of claim 1, wherein the light source is configured to project an arc of light, and further wherein the light ray is defined by a portion of the arc of light that is incident on the workpiece.

10. The insertion saw of claim 1, wherein the location of the edge of the circular saw blade is indicated on the workpiece by a transition from a shadow of the circular saw blade to the light ray.

11. The insertion saw of claim 1, wherein the insertion saw includes an insertion assembly that includes the arbor and the motor and is operably attached to the base plate via the arbor pivot.

12. The insertion saw of claim 1, wherein the cut indicator further includes at least one of:

13. The insertion saw of claim 12, wherein (i) an electrical conductor extending between the insertion assembly and the light source; and (ii) a fiber optic cable operably attached to both the insertion assembly and the base plate and configured to project the light ray. ​ 14. The insertion saw of any one of claims 1-3, wherein The plunge saw includes a switch configured to selectively supply current to at least one component of the plunge saw other than the switch.

15. The insertion saw of claim 14, wherein The cut indicator is configured to indicate a location of an edge of the circular saw blade when the switch selectively applies the current to the at least one component of the plunge saw other than the switch.

16. The insertion saw of claim 15, wherein The cut indicator is configured to indicate the location of the edge of the circular saw blade for at least a threshold indication time of 5 seconds.

17. The insertion saw of any one of claims 1-3, wherein The base plate pivot operably attaches a trailing edge region of a plunge assembly to a trailing edge region of the base plate.

18. The insertion saw of any one of claims 1-3, wherein The plunge mechanism includes a plunge release mechanism configured to be selectively actuated by a user to allow the plunge saw to transition from the retracted position to the plunge position.

19. The insertion saw of claim 18, wherein The plunge mechanism further includes a retracted position lock configured to selectively retain the plunge saw in the retracted position, wherein the plunge release mechanism is configured to be selectively actuated to release the retracted position lock and allow the plunge saw to transition from the retracted position to the plunge position.

20. The insertion saw of any one of claims 1-3, wherein The plunge saw is a track saw.

21. A method of operating a plunge saw according to any one of claims 1-20, the method comprising: actuating a switch of the plunge saw; in response to the actuation, initiating rotation of a circular saw blade of the plunge saw; in response to the actuation, initiating projection of a light onto the workpiece to visually indicate a location of an edge of the circular saw blade on the workpiece; and wherein the projection of the light includes projecting light through the circular saw blade such that a first portion of the light is incident on the circular saw blade and a second portion of the light is incident on the workpiece, wherein the second portion of the light defines the light line. The initiating the projection of the light onto the workpiece includes initiating projection of a leading edge light onto the workpiece. The initiating the projection of the light onto the workpiece further includes initiating projection of a trailing edge light onto the workpiece in response to the circular saw blade being inserted into the workpiece.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein The method further includes maintaining the projection of the light onto the workpiece for at least a threshold indication time of at least 5 seconds.

23. The method of claim 21 or 22, wherein The insertion of the circular saw blade into the workpiece includes rotating a plunge assembly of the plunge saw relative to and about a base plate pivot of the plunge saw, the plunge assembly including the circular saw blade.

24. The method of claim 21 or 22, wherein The rotation of the circular saw blade of the plunge saw includes rotating a leading edge of the plunge assembly toward a leading edge of the base plate.

25. The method of claim 21 or 22, wherein The plunge saw includes a switch configured to selectively supply current to at least one component of the plunge saw other than the switch.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein The cut indicator is configured to indicate a location of an edge of the circular saw blade when the switch selectively applies the current to the at least one component of the plunge saw other than the switch. The cut indicator is configured to indicate the location of the edge of the circular saw blade for at least a threshold indication time of 5 seconds. The base plate pivot operably attaches a trailing edge region of a plunge assembly to a trailing edge region of the base plate. The plunge mechanism includes a plunge release mechanism configured to be selectively actuated by a user to allow the plunge saw to transition from the retracted position to the plunge position. The plunge mechanism further includes a retracted position lock configured to selectively retain the plunge saw in the retracted position, wherein the plunge release mechanism is configured to be selectively actuated to release the retracted position lock and allow the plunge saw to transition from the retracted position to the plunge position. The plunge saw is a track saw.

21. A method of operating a plunge saw according to any one of claims 1-20, the method comprising: actuating a switch of the plunge saw; in response to the actuation, initiating rotation of a circular saw blade of the plunge saw; in response to the actuation, initiating projection of a light onto the workpiece to visually indicate a location of an edge of the circular saw blade on the workpiece; and wherein the projection of the light includes projecting light through the circular saw blade such that a first portion of the light is incident on the circular saw blade and a second portion of the light is incident on the workpiece, wherein the second portion of the light defines the light line. The initiating the projection of the light onto the workpiece includes initiating projection of a leading edge light onto the workpiece. The initiating the projection of the light onto the workpiece further includes initiating projection of a trailing edge light onto the workpiece in response to the circular saw blade being inserted into the workpiece. The method further includes maintaining the projection of the light onto the workpiece for at least a threshold indication time of at least 5 seconds. The insertion of the circular saw blade into the workpiece includes rotating a plunge assembly of the plunge saw relative to and about a base plate pivot of the plunge saw, the plunge assembly including the circular saw blade. The rotation of the circular saw blade of the plunge saw includes rotating a leading edge of the plunge assembly toward a leading edge of the base plate.

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