Hole saw mandrel capable of being replaced quickly

Abstract

A quick change hole saw mandrel (10) for a hole saw (18); comprising a drive handle (14) extending along a central axis (C); and a mounting end (16) detachably connected to a mounting hole (26) of the hole saw (18) and including a drive pin (30) for engaging a drive pin hole (28) of the hole saw (18). The spindle (10) comprises a clamping device (32) insertable through the mounting hole (26) for clamping the hole saw base (20). In a normal deployed configuration, the clamping device (32) clamps the base (20). The clamping device is selectively movable to a retracted configuration in which the clamping device (32) can be inserted into or removed from the mounting hole (26). A guide head locking selector (44) for selecting between an unlocked mode allowing rapid removal and rapid insertion of the guide head (12) and a locked mode in which the guide head (12) is locked against removal.

Description

Priority Cross Reference

[0001] This application claims priority to Australian provisional patent application AU2022900456 filed on February 25, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a hole saw arbor, also known as a hole saw machine arbor, for mounting a hole saw to a rotary tool such as a power drill. In particular, the present invention relates to a removable hole saw arbor that allows the hole saw to be selectively removed from the arbor and interchanged with a different hole saw. More specifically, the present invention relates to a quick-change hole saw arbor that speeds up the process of replacing a hole saw on a hole saw arbor. Background Art

[0003] The following discussion of the background of the invention is intended to facilitate understanding of the invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known or part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.

[0004] A hole saw, also known as a hole cutter, is a circular saw blade used to cut circular holes in materials. A hole saw is typically cup-shaped, having a base and an annular wall with a toothed cutting edge extending from the base. The hole saw may be connected to a rotary tool such as an electric drill, which drives the hole saw to rotate while being pressed against a workpiece in which a hole is desired.

[0005] The connection between the hole saw and the drill is provided by a hole saw arbor (also called a machine shaft), which includes a drive end for coupling with a rotating tool and a mounting end opposite the drive end to which the hole saw is mounted. The drive end of the arbor typically includes a drive shaft, also called a drive shank, which can be engaged with the chuck of an electric drill.

[0006] One type of hole saw arbor is a "fixed" hole saw arbor, in which the hole saw is permanently mounted to the arbor and the arbor needs to be removed from the drill to replace the hole saw. The other type is a removable hole saw arbor, which involves a removable mount between the hole saw and the arbor, thereby enabling the hole saw to be interchanged without removing the arbor from the drill.

[0007] The removable hole saw arbor includes a mounting end configured to removably connect to a central mounting hole in the hole saw base and sometimes includes one or more drive pins for receiving in one or more drive pin holes in the hole saw base. The mounting end is also configured to engage with a center drill bit (referred to as a pilot head or center head) that extends centrally through the hole saw. The pilot head protrudes beyond the cutting edge of the hole saw and drills into the workpiece at the center of the desired hole to be cut so as to stabilize and hold the hole saw cutting edge in a desired position on the workpiece.

[0008] The removable connection between the mounting end and the hole saw is most commonly provided by a threaded connection between a threaded portion of the mounting end and a locking nut on the underside of the hole saw base. A disadvantage of this type of arbor is that it is very time consuming to change the hole saw due to the need to loosen and retighten the locking nut.

[0009] In order to speed up the process of changing hole saws, quick-change hole saw arbors were developed. Common quick-change arbor systems require a quick-change adapter to be attached to each hole saw to provide the quick-change feature. One such example is provided in U.S. Patent 7,112,016. These systems require the user to purchase and install a quick-change adapter to each hole saw, which adds cost and time. In addition, the quick-change adapter must sometimes be removed from the hole saw after use to allow the hole saw to be stored in its corresponding storage box. This further adds time and inconvenience to the system.

[0010] Other quick-change hole saw arbors have been developed that avoid the need for an adapter, and one such arbor is described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,105,764. However, this and similar systems require a specialized hole saw having a specific configuration that is compatible with the mounting end of the arbor. These arbors are not configured for use with conventional hole saws having a circular center mounting hole, but instead require the user to purchase a new proprietary hole saw specifically designed for use with the corresponding quick-change arbor. Summary of the invention

[0011] In view of the above, it is desirable to provide a new quick-change hole saw arbor that has improved hole saw compatibility and / or streamlined functionality and / or provides users with alternative choices.

[0012] Before turning to the content of the present invention, it is useful to explain some of the terms that are used to define the spatial relationship of its various parts. In this regard, spatial references throughout this specification will generally be based on a hole saw arbor having a mounting end for mounting a hole saw and an opposite drive end for coupling with a rotating tool. For convenience, the mounting end will be considered the "top" of the arbor, and the drive end will be considered the "bottom" of the arbor. In this article, terms such as "upper", "upward", "top side", "top" and the like will be understood to refer to the component or part thereof facing the mounting end of the arbor. Equivalently, terms such as "lower", "downward", "lower side", "bottom" and the like will be understood to refer to its component or part thereof facing the drive end of the arbor. In addition, it should be understood that the arbor has a central axis, so terms such as "radial" refer to dimensions perpendicular to the central axis. Terms such as "inward" and "outward" will be understood to mean toward or away from the central axis, respectively.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a quick-change hole saw spindle for a hole saw, the hole saw having a base with a central circular mounting hole and a drive pin hole, the spindle comprising: a drive shank extending along the central axis of the spindle, the drive shank being used to releasably engage with a rotary tool; a mounting end opposite the drive shank, configured to be detachably connected to the mounting hole of the hole saw and including a drive pin for engaging with the drive pin hole of the hole saw; a clamping device at the mounting end insertable into the mounting hole for clamping the hole saw base, the clamping device having a generally expanded configuration, wherein the clamping device clamps the base to prevent it from moving along the central axis, and being selectively movable to a retracted configuration, wherein in the retracted configuration, the clamping device can be inserted into or removed from the mounting hole; and a quick-release guide head connecting device for coupling a quick-release guide head to the spindle, the connecting device being configured to receive a guide head through a guide head hole extending through the center of the clamping device, and the connecting device including a guide head locking selector for selecting between an unlocking mode that allows quick removal and quick insertion of the guide head and a locking mode in which the guide head is locked to prevent removal from the connecting device.

[0014] The present invention advantageously provides a hole saw arbor that is not limited to use with proprietary hole saws, but is configured for use with conventional hole saws having a central circular mounting hole and a drive pin hole. Furthermore, in addition to providing a quick change hole saw function, the arbor of the present invention also includes a quick release guide head connection device that provides a quick change guide head function.

[0015] The quick change arbor according to the present invention advantageously allows tool-less interchange of hole saws and tool-less interchange of guide heads. Thus, the user is able to remove and replace the hole saw and guide head without the need for tools such as Allen keys or wrenches that hinder the interchange process on previous arbor systems. In one form of the invention, the arbor is configured to allow these components to be interchanged using only the user's hands.

[0016] The present invention may be particularly useful with larger hole saws that include drive pin holes. Typically, hole saws of the type driven by drive pins have a diameter of about 32 mm or greater. The present invention may also be suitable for use with smaller hole saws that do not have drive pin holes using an adapter. According to one form of the invention, a hole saw arbor is configured for use with a hole saw having a pair of drive pin holes, and the mounting end of the arbor includes a pair of drive pins configured to engage the pair of drive pin holes. The position of the drive pins relative to the clamping device may correspond to the position of the drive pin holes relative to the mounting holes on the hole saw. For example, the arbor may be configured for use with a hole saw having at least two drive pin holes located on opposite sides of the mounting hole, and in this case, the drive pins of the arbor may be located on opposite sides of the clamping device so as to engage with the drive pin holes when the clamping device is engaged with the mounting hole.

[0017] The guide head lock selector advantageously allows a user to quickly unlock the guide head for removal or replacement, such as when the drill bit becomes dull or when a different type of drill bit is needed to drill through a different material. In use, changes in hole saw size typically require replacement of the guide head. The present invention integrates the quick-change hole saw function with the quick-change guide head function to significantly improve usability. This is particularly advantageous compared to some existing systems that allow for quick hole saw interchanges but involve cumbersome guide head replacement processes, such as loosening grub screws or other fasteners, and also require external tools, such as an Allen wrench, to replace the guide head.

[0018] The lock selector may be provided in a variety of forms that enable manual selection between locked and unlocked modes. According to a particular form of the invention, the lock selector includes a locking collar that is rotatable about a central axis between an unlocked position corresponding to the unlocked mode and a locked position corresponding to the locked mode. The locking collar may include circumferential gripping structures, such as notches, knurls, ridges, protrusions, depressions, grooves, or combinations thereof, to enhance a user's finger grip on the locking collar.

[0019] In a particular form of the invention, the locking collar can be rotated about 90° about the central axis between the unlocked position and the locked position. According to one form of the invention, the spindle includes markings to indicate whether the locking collar is in the locked position or the unlocked position. The markings may include a locked symbol and an unlocked symbol or text on the spindle body and an indicator protrusion on the locking collar. In use, the locking collar can be rotated about the central axis relative to the markings so that the indicator protrusion can be rotated between the locked marking and the unlocked marking.

[0020] The guide head connection device can be configured for use with a conventional quick release drill type ball detent hex shank guide head. In one form of the invention, the guide head connection device includes a ball detent connection device. The ball detent connection device may include a ball assembly, the ball assembly including a ball positionable in a ball detent of the guide head shank, the ball being used to lock the guide head shank to prevent removal. It should be understood that the ball detent hex shank is a conventional standard form of quick release drill bits, and therefore, according to this embodiment, the spindle is advantageously compatible for use with conventional quick release guide heads and is not limited to use with proprietary guide heads. For example, in one form of the invention, the spindle is configured to accept a conventional 1 / 4 inch hex shank drill bit.

[0021] In one form of the invention, the locking collar includes an internal seat that holds the ball in the ball detent of the hexagonal shank in the locked position. In the locked position, the internal seat can be aligned with the ball and cover the ball, thereby preventing the ball from moving away from the ball detent of the hexagonal shank. In other words, the internal abutment can hold the ball in the ball detent of the guide head, thereby preventing the removal of the guide head. The internal seat may include an inwardly extending radial protrusion located on the inner surface of the locking collar. The locking collar can be configured so that, in the unlocked position, when the seat is not aligned with the ball, a recess is formed between the ball and the locking collar, allowing the ball to move into the recess and disengage the ball detent, thereby enabling the guide head to be released.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the spindle includes an adjustable shim at the mounting end that is configured to facilitate use of the spindle with hole saws having different base thicknesses. Hole saws having different diameters or from different manufacturers may have bases of different thicknesses. Some existing quick-change hole saw spindles are designed for hole saws having a specific base thickness (typically the base thickness of the hole saw produced by the manufacturer of the specific spindle) and are incompatible (or have their functionality impaired) with hole saws having different base thicknesses. With these spindles, hole saws having different base thicknesses may be completely incompatible, or may be connectable but the coupling may not be secure, resulting in undesirable vibrations during use.

[0023] The adjustable shim of the present invention advantageously solves this problem by enabling the shim to be adjusted in position to accommodate hole saws of different base thicknesses and thereby provide compatibility with a wider range of hole saws. According to certain embodiments, the shim is movable relative to the clamping device along a central axis to accommodate various hole saw base thicknesses. The shim can be configured to contact the underside of the hole saw base.

[0024] In one form of the invention, the shim includes an annular plate having circumferential threads that engage the internal threads of the shim adjustment collar. Rotating the shim adjustment collar allows the position of the shim to be adjusted along the central axis. When used with a hole saw having a relatively small base thickness, the shim can be moved in a direction toward the hole saw (i.e., away from the drive handle) and contact the underside of the hole saw base. In this example, the shim is adjusted to protrude outwardly from the mounting end and beyond the shim adjustment collar. In the event that a thin bottom hole saw is interchanged with a thick bottom hole saw, the shim can be retracted into the mounting end as needed to accommodate the thicker hole saw base.

[0025] In one form of the invention, the shim may be configured to clamp the hole saw base between the shim and a portion of a clamping device. The portion of the clamping device may include a lip or jaw that engages with a top surface (i.e., top side) of the hole saw base (the surface of the hole saw base that is inside the annular wall of the hole saw). The hole saw base may thereby be clamped between the adjustable shim on its underside and the clamping device lip or jaw on its top side.

[0026] As noted, the clamping device is movable from a normally deployed configuration to a retracted configuration, which allows the clamping device to be inserted into or removed from the mounting hole. In one form of the invention, the mandrel includes a sliding collar that is manually movable along the central axis to selectively move the clamping device to the retracted configuration. The sliding collar may include one or more gripping portions, such as protrusions, detents, recesses, shaded portions, or any other configuration that facilitates engagement by a user's fingers or hand when sliding the collar.

[0027] In one form of the invention, the sliding collar is slidable toward the drive handle for actuating the clamping device to move to the retracted configuration. In one form of the invention, the sliding collar is released when the sliding collar is slid toward the drive handle so that the collar returns to its normal position corresponding to the deployed configuration. The sliding collar may be urged toward its normal position by an internal biasing means.

[0028] According to one form of the invention, the clamping device includes a pair of clamps, each clamp including a distal end protruding from a mounting end and having a jaw for engaging a base of a hole saw. In one form of the invention, the pair of clamps are spaced apart from each other in an expanded configuration and move toward each other in a collapsed configuration. The clamps can move relative to the central axis in a direction perpendicular to the central axis. For example, the clamps can move radially relative to the central axis.

[0029] In one form of the invention, the clamping arrangement may comprise more than two clamps, for example three or four or even more clamps equally spaced about the central axis and each configured to move radially inwardly towards the central axis to a retracted configuration.

[0030] In one form of the invention, each jaw is generally semicircular and in the retracted configuration, a pair of jaws form an approximately circular configuration. Thus, the circular configuration is suitable for insertion through a circular mounting hole of a hole saw. Each jaw may have an arcuate configuration such that in the extended configuration, the arcuate jaw overlaps an arcuate portion of the top side of the hole saw base. This configuration is advantageous in that it increases or maximizes the contact area between the circular mounting hole and the clamping device.

[0031] This is in contrast to some existing quick-change arbor systems that contact the hole saw hole at discrete clamping points. The clamping device of the present invention may have an increased contact area via a semi-circular (e.g., arc-shaped) jaw configuration compared to previous configurations such as these, which provides a more secure connection between the clamping device and the hole saw. In other forms of the present invention, the jaws may have another curvilinear configuration, such as a semi-elliptical or crescent configuration, or alternatively, may have a non-curvilinear configuration, such as a polygonal configuration.

[0032] In one form of the invention, when in the retracted configuration, the jaws of the clamping device form a circular configuration having a diameter less than the diameter of the hole saw mounting hole to enable insertion and removal from the mounting hole. In one form of the invention, when in the expanded configuration, the jaws of the clamping device form an enlarged configuration having a diameter greater than the diameter of the hole saw mounting hole to prevent or inhibit withdrawal of the clamping device from the mounting hole. In one form of the invention, the clamping device is configured for use with hole saws having a diameter of 32 mm or greater, which typically provide a conventional 5 / 8 inch UNF threaded mounting hole. Thus, when in the retracted configuration, the clamping device may have jaws having a width slightly less than 5 / 8 inch.

[0033] According to one form of the invention, in the expanded configuration, the clamps are spaced apart from one another so as to engage and clamp the hole saw base. The pair of jaws may be configured to contact the top side of the hole saw base and clamp the hole saw base between the mounting end and the jaws. Each jaw may include a lip extending radially outward from the corresponding clamp. Each radially extending lip may form a recess below the lip, the recess being configured to receive an edge of the mounting hole. In one form of the invention, the edge of the mounting hole is received in the recess formed between the lip and the adjustable shim.

[0034] According to one form of the invention, the clamping device includes a biasing device that urges the clamping device toward the deployed configuration. The biasing device may include any suitable biasing element, such as resiliently flexible rubber or steel, magnetic means or spring means or a combination thereof. In a particular form of the invention, the biasing device includes a pair of helical springs positioned between a pair of clamps. The pair of helical springs are in a normally deployed position, wherein the pair of clamps are spaced apart from each other corresponding to the deployed configuration of the clamping device.

[0035] In one form of the invention, the clamps are urged together by an applied force which overcomes the bias of the coil spring and moves the clamps together, which corresponds to a retracted configuration of the clamping device.

[0036] The force applied to the clamps may be provided by user-generated movement of the sliding collar along the central axis. According to one form of the invention, the sliding collar contacts a portion of the clamps such that movement of the sliding collar along the central axis urges the clamps toward the retracted configuration. For example, each clamp may include an outwardly facing inclined surface that contacts an inwardly facing corresponding inclined surface on the sliding collar, and wherein movement of the inwardly facing inclined surface of the sliding collar toward the drive shaft urges the outwardly facing inclined surface of the clamps toward the central axis and into the retracted configuration.

[0037] The outwardly facing inclined surface of the clamp and the inwardly facing inclined surface of the sliding collar may have equal inclinations relative to the central axis. In one form of the invention, the outwardly facing inclined surface and the inwardly facing inclined surface are both inclined between 20° and 40° relative to the central axis. In a particular form of the invention, the inclination is between 25° and 35°. In a particular form of the invention, the inclination is approximately 30° relative to the central axis. In one form of the invention, the inclination is directed such that the inclined surface tapers toward the mounting end of the mandrel.

[0038] The mandrel may also include an angle plate having an inclined surface that contacts a corresponding inclined surface on the underside of the clamp, and wherein contact between the inclined surface on the underside of each clamp and the inclined surface of the angle plate causes the clamp to move toward the retracted configuration. In one form of the invention, the angle plate is saddle-shaped and has a pair of opposing inclined surfaces. The inclined surfaces of the angle plate can be located on the top of the angle plate, that is, on the side of the angle plate that is oriented toward the mounting end of the mandrel. The angle plate can have a symmetrical configuration about the central axis of the mandrel, wherein the inclined surfaces are angled to the opposite sides of the central axis so that each inclined surface is at an equal angle to the central axis but is not parallel to each other.

[0039] In one form of the invention, the angled surfaces of the angled plates may be angled between 80°-90°, more specifically between 82°-88°, and in a particular form of the invention, approximately 85° relative to the central axis. Each angled surface may be angled 85° to an opposite side of the central axis such that the interior angle between the angled surfaces is approximately 170°. Thus, the angled plates may have a relatively wide V-shaped or saddle-shaped configuration configured to facilitate sliding movement of the clamp toward the central axis when the underside angled surface of the clamp is pushed against the angled surface of the angled plate under an applied load.

[0040] In one form of the invention, the underside inclined surface of each clamp is parallel to one of the inclined surfaces of the angle plate. Thus, the underside inclined surface of each clamp may be at an angle of between 80° and 90° relative to the central axis, more specifically between 82° and 88°, and in a particular form of the invention approximately 85°.

[0041] When combined with a hole saw and a guide head, the above-mentioned spindle can form part of a hole saw assembly. In this regard, another aspect of the present invention provides a hole saw assembly, comprising: a hole saw having a base and an annular wall extending from the base with a toothed cutting edge, the base including a central circular mounting hole and at least one driver pin hole; a quick release guide head including a ball detent hexagonal shank drill bit; a quick change hole saw spindle including a drive shank extending along the central axis of the spindle for releasably engaging with a rotary tool; a mounting end opposite the drive shank that is removably connected to the mounting hole of the hole saw and includes a drive pin that engages with the drive pin hole of the hole saw; a clamping device located at the mounting end, which is inserted into the mounting hole and clamped A hole saw base having a clamping device having a normally expanded configuration in which the clamping device clamps the base to prevent movement thereof along a central axis and being selectively movable to a retracted state in which the clamping device is removable from the mounting hole; and a quick release guide head connection device coupling the quick release guide head to the spindle, the guide head connection device receiving the guide head through a guide head hole extending through the center of the clamping device, the guide head connection device including a guide head locking selector for selecting between an unlocked mode allowing quick removal and quick insertion of the guide head and a locked mode in which the guide head is locked to prevent removal from the connection device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] In order that the present invention may be more fully understood, some embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0043] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a hole saw arbor according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein a guide head is coupled to the arbor;

[0044] Figure 2 is a perspective top view of a conventional hole saw having a center mounting hole and a drive pin hole;

[0045] Figure 2a yes Figure 2 A perspective lower side view of a hole saw;

[0046] Figure 3 is detachably connected to Figure 1 The mandrel Figure 2 A perspective view of a hole saw;

[0047] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A rear perspective view of a mandrel;

[0048] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the mandrel shown;

[0049] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A side view of a mandrel;

[0050] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of

[0051] Figure 8 and Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 A side perspective view and a top perspective view of the main part of the mandrel;

[0052] Fig.10 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a base collar of a spindle;

[0053] Fig.11 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a locking collar of an embodiment;

[0054] Fig.12 and Fig.13 yes Figure 1 A perspective view and a side cross-sectional view of a corner plate of a mandrel;

[0055] Fig.14 yes Figure 1 a perspective view of the adjustable spacer of the spindle;

[0056] Fig.15 yes Figure 1 a perspective view of the shim adjustable collar of the illustrated spindle;

[0057] Fig.16 and Fig.17 yes Figure 1 A perspective view and a side cross-sectional view of a sliding collar of a spindle;

[0058] Fig.18 and Fig.19 yes Figure 1 A perspective view and a side cross-sectional view of a fixture for a mandrel;

[0059] Fig. 20 and 21 yes Figure 1 A perspective view and a side cross-sectional view of a top plate of a mandrel;

[0060] Fig. 22 Yes Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of a hole saw assembly with a mandrel, wherein a thick base hole saw is connected to the mandrel and a guide head is coupled to the mandrel;

[0061] Fig.23 Yes Fig.21 a cross-sectional view of a hole saw assembly with a spindle, wherein the thin base hole saw is connected to the spindle and the guide head is coupled to the spindle;

[0062] Fig.24 yes Figure 8 a view of the hole saw assembly with the sliding collar retracted and the clamping device moved to a retracted position; and

[0063] Fig.25 is a cross-sectional view of a hole saw assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention with the guide head separated from and partially removed from the arbor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Figure 1 An embodiment of a quick change hole saw arbor 10 according to the present invention is shown. The arbor 10 is coupled to a guide head 12. The arbor 10 includes a drive shank 14 extending along a central axis C of the arbor. The drive shank 14 has a conventional quick release hexagonal shank ball brake configuration for engagement with a rotary tool such as a power drill.

[0065] The spindle 10 includes a mounting end 16 configured to engage with Figure 2 and Figure 2a The hole saw 18 shown in FIG. 1 is removably connected. The hole saw 18 includes an annular base 20 and an annular wall 22 extending from the base 20, the annular wall 22 having a toothed cutting edge 24 for cutting a hole in a workpiece. The base 20 includes a central circular mounting hole 26 and a pair of drive pin holes 28 located on opposite sides of the mounting hole 26. The hole saw base 20 includes Figure 2 The top side 21 visible and marked in Figure 2a The bottom side 23 is visible and marked.

[0066] The configuration of hole saw 18 is considered to be a conventional hole saw design used by most manufacturers and is compatible with a variety of hole saw spindles and spindles. In this regard, the central mounting hole 26 includes an internal threaded surface 27 for engaging with an external threaded mounting member on a conventional hole saw spindle.

[0067] A pair of drive pins 30 (at Figure 1 A clamping device 32 is provided at the mounting end 16 of the spindle 10 for engaging with a corresponding drive pin hole 28 in the hole saw 18. A clamping device 32 is located at the mounting end 16 and can be inserted through the mounting hole 26 of the hole saw 18. Figure 3 A hole saw 18 is shown removably connected to the mounting end 16 of the mandrel 10. Figure 3 As shown, when the hole saw 18 is connected to the arbor 10 , it will be appreciated that the underside 23 of the hole saw base 18 is placed in contact with the mounting end 16 of the arbor 10 .

[0068] Still refer to Figure 1 The spindle 10 has a central axis C and it will be referred to as the reference point for the positioning and movement of the various components of the spindle 10 hereinafter. Figure 1 As shown, the guide head 12 and the drive shank 14 are generally co-linear with the central axis C.

[0069] The mounting end 16 also includes an adjustable spacer 34 having an annular disk profile and which is Fig.14 The adjustable spacer 34 includes a central opening 36 and a pair of drive pin openings 38 located on opposite sides of the central opening 36. Figure 1 As shown, the clamp 32 and guide head 12 extend through the central opening of the spacer 34. Similarly, the drive pin 30 extends through the drive pin opening 38 in the spacer 34.

[0070] The spindle 10 also includes a shim adjustment ring 40, which is Fig.15 The collar 40 is rotatable about the central axis C and is configured to allow the position of the spacer 34 to be adjusted along the central axis C. Fig.14 and 15 The annular wall 35 of the gasket 34 has an external thread for interfacing with Fig.15 The shim adjustment collar 40 is shown in the figure as engaging the corresponding internal threaded surface 41 of the shim adjustment ring 40. The exterior of the shim adjustment collar 40 has a groove configuration to facilitate gripping with the user's fingers. The shim adjustment collar 40 includes an annular shoulder 43 received by a corresponding shoulder groove 84 in the top plate 80, and it is Fig.21 is best shown in .

[0071] Return to Figure 1 , adjacent to the shim adjustment collar 40 is a sliding collar 42 that is configured to be manually slid by a user's hand along the central axis C in order to move the clamping device 32 from an expanded configuration for clamping the hole saw 18 to a retracted configuration for allowing the hole saw to be removed or interchanged. The operation of the sliding collar 42 will be described in more detail later.

[0072] Turning to the rear perspective view of the mandrel 10 provided Figure 4 The spindle 10 further includes a guide head lock selector including a locking collar 44 that enables a user to select between an unlocked mode that allows quick removal and quick insertion of the guide head 12 and a locked mode in which the guide head 12 is locked to prevent removal. The locking collar 44 is rotatable about the central axis C between a locked position corresponding to the locked mode and an unlocked position corresponding to the unlocked mode.

[0073] The locking collar 44 includes an indicator protrusion including a raised rib 46 on its outer surface that a user can rotate between a locked indicia 48 and an unlocked indicia 50 provided on a base collar 76, which will be discussed in more detail later. Figure 4 In FIG. 4 , the raised rib 46 is positioned at a locking mark 48 that corresponds to a locked position indicating to a user that the guide head 12 is locked to prevent removal.

[0074] Go to Figure 5 , an exploded view of the mandrel 10 is provided. The components of the exploded view will be described in order to inform the subsequent discussion of the components.

[0075] from Figure 5 Starting at the lower left of the drawing, is a hexagonal shank quick release pilot head 12 which is received through a central opening 36 in an adjustable spacer 34. The pilot head 12 includes a hexagonal base portion 101 which includes a ball detent 13. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the pilot head 12 is a conventional quick release hexagonal shank pilot head of the type produced by most manufacturers and is compatible with most quick release drill chucks and connectors.

[0076] A pair of bolts 39 extend through corresponding openings 81 in a top plate 80, which includes a pair of drive pins 30 extending through drive pin openings 38 in the shim 34. An O-ring seal 82 is located in a corresponding groove 78 in the circumferential surface of the top plate 80. The O-ring seal 82 is provided to limit the leakage of grease or other lubricant that can be used to reduce friction on the moving parts of the spindle 10. The top plate 80 is surrounded by a shim adjustment ring 40. The externally threaded annular wall 35 of the shim 34 is located between the circumferential surface of the top plate 80 and the shim adjustment collar 40, which includes an internally threaded surface 41 that engages the external threads of the annular wall 35.

[0077] Adjacent the shim member adjustment collar 40 is a sliding collar 42 that includes an external notch 64 that facilitates manual clamping by a user. The sliding collar surrounds a plurality of components, including a portion of a clamping device that includes a pair of clamps 52, each having a base portion 56, a neck 60, and a lip 54. The base portion 56 of each clamp 52 includes an outwardly facing inclined surface 58 that contacts a corresponding inwardly facing inclined surface 62 on the interior of the sliding collar 42. A pair of coil springs 86 are located between the clamps 52 that urge the clamps 52 to an expanded configuration in which the clamps 52 are spaced apart from one another. Adjacent the clamp bottom portion 56 is an angle plate 88 having a pair of inclined surfaces 90 that contact the underside of the clamp base portion 58. The angle plate 88 is seated on a spindle body 70 that has a pair of projections 71, each projection 71 having an internally threaded bolt opening 73 for engaging a bolt 39.

[0078] The spindle 10 also includes a guide head connection device, which in the illustrated embodiment is a ball brake connection device 75. The ball brake connection device 75 includes a rod 91 having a ball opening 92 disposed on the spindle body 70. The ball brake connection device 75 also includes a ball 93 received in the ball opening 92 and a spring collar 94 for fixing the ball 93 in the ball opening 92 to form a ball assembly. The drive handle 14 extends from the body rod 91. The body rod 91 and the ball assembly are located within the base collar 76. The locking collar 44 surrounds the rod portion 77 of the base collar 76.

[0079] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A side view and a side cross-sectional view of the mandrel 10 are provided, respectively. The clamping device 32 includes a pair of identical clamps 52 that are generally elongated in shape and are arranged on opposite sides of the central axis C. Each clamp 52 includes a jaw that includes a semicircular lip 54 that extends from a distal end of the clamp 52 in a radially outward direction relative to the central axis C. Each lip 54 forms a recess 55 between the lip 54 and the gasket 34, and the recess 55 is configured to receive the edge of the mounting hole 26. Figure 7 Also shown is a guide head hole 57 which extends centrally through the clamping device 32 and in particular between the clamps 52. The guide head hole 57 (also in Fig. 22 ) extends along the central axis C and receives the guide head 12 therethrough.

[0080] Go to Fig.18 and Fig.19 , for ease of description, one of the clamps 52 is shown separately. The clamp 52 includes a bottom portion 56, which includes an inclined surface 58 inclined relative to the central axis C. The inclined surface 58 of each clamp 52 is oriented radially outward relative to the central axis C, and is therefore referred to as an outwardly inclined surface 58. The clamp 52 also includes a semicircular neck 60 extending from the base portion 56 in a direction parallel to the central axis C. At the top of the neck 60 is a semicircular lip 54 extending radially outward relative to the central axis C.

[0081] like Fig.19 As shown, the outwardly facing inclined surface 58 is inclined approximately 30° relative to the central axis C. The underside of the base portion 56 of each clamp 52 includes an underside inclined surface 59 that is angled 95° to the central axis C (i.e., 5° to an axis perpendicular to the central axis C).

[0082] Return to Figure 7 , the outwardly facing inclined surface 58 of the clamp 52 contacts the corresponding inwardly facing inclined surface 62 on the interior of the sliding collar 42. Fig.16 and Fig.17 For ease of description, the sliding collar 42 is shown separately. The sliding collar 42 has a generally annular configuration, the exterior of which has a pair of notches 64 on opposite sides of the collar 42 to facilitate gripping of the collar by the user's fingers. The interior of the sliding collar 42 includes a pair of opposing ribs 66 that are configured to receive and slidably engage a pair of corresponding grooves 68 in the outwardly facing surface of the spindle body 70, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 shown.

[0083] Still see Fig.16 and Fig.17The interior of the sliding collar 42 also includes a pair of opposing grooves 72 that receive a pair of corresponding outwardly facing connecting flanges 74 on the base collar 76, and as shown in FIG. Fig.10 As shown. Fig.17 As best shown, the interior of the sliding collar 42 includes a pair of inwardly facing inclined surfaces 62 located on opposite sides of the collar interior and facing generally inwardly relative to the central axis C. Fig.17 As shown, the inwardly facing inclined surface 62 is inclined about 30° relative to the central axis C. Then return to Figure 7 It will be appreciated that the outwardly inclined surface 58 of the clamp is parallel to and in contact with the inwardly inclined surface 52 of the collar 42 .

[0084] Figure 7 It is also shown that the underside inclined surface 59 of the clamp 52 is parallel to and in contact with the inclined surface 90 of the gusset 88. Fig.12 and Fig.13 For ease of description, the angled plate 88 is shown separately. The angled plate 88 is symmetrical about the central axis C and is generally saddle-shaped, with a pair of inclined surfaces 90 at an angle of 85° relative to the central axis. The pair of inclined surfaces 90 are angled to opposite sides of the central axis C so that the internal angle between the inclined surfaces is 170°. Fig.12 As shown, angle plate 88 includes a central opening 89 through which guide head 12 extends and a pair of circular bolt recesses 87 through which bolts 39 extend. Angle plate 88 also includes a central circular protrusion 85 on its underside and through which central opening 89 extends.

[0085] Return to Figure 7 , the angle plate 88 is located on the spindle body 70. For ease of description, Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The spindle body 70 is shown separately in FIG. The spindle body 70 includes the drive handle 14, a bracket portion 95, the bracket portion 95 includes a pair of upstanding projections 71 oriented parallel to the central axis and includes an internally threaded bolt opening 73 located on its top surface for engagement with the bolt 39.

[0086] The spindle body 70 also includes a hollow rod 91 located between the drive shaft 14 and the bracket portion 95. The interior 97 of the hollow rod 91 is elongated and includes a hexagonal portion 101 (eg, Fig.25 As shown), the hexagonal portion 101 and the hexagonal base portion 102 of the hexagonal guide head 12 (as shown Figure 2) corresponds to and engages with the six-handled guide head 12. In use, the six-handled guide head 12 is correspondingly assembled within the hexagonal portion of the rod interior 97, so that the rotation of the body 70 caused by the rotating power tool drives the rotation of the guide head 12. The elongated rod interior 97 is aligned with the central axis C and with the guide head hole 57 extending through the clamping device 32. The elongated rod interior 97 and the guide head hole 57 are aligned with the central opening 89 in the angle plate 88. Therefore, the guide head 12 extends through each of the guide head hole 57, the angle plate central opening 89 and the elongated rod interior 97. The mouth 96 of the rod interior 97 is located in the bracket portion 95, and (as shown Figure 7 95 ) is provided with a countersunk hole which receives the central circular protrusion 85 on the underside of the angle plate 88. In this way, the angle plate 88 is securely seated in the bracket portion 95, wherein the protrusion 85 engages with the countersunk aperture portion 96 of the elongated inner portion 97 of the rod 91.

[0087] The mandrel body 70 also includes a pair of blind holes 65 ( Fig. 9 Only one of them is visible in the figure). The holes 65 provide a container for debris that may enter the mechanism during use. For example, during repeated drilling of gypsum board, gypsum dust may accumulate inside the mechanism.

[0088] Reference Figure 8 The rod 91 includes a ball opening 92 extending from the outside of the rod 91 to the rod interior 97, and the hexagonal shank guide head 12 is received in the rod interior 97. The ball opening 92 has a larger Figure 5 and Figure 7 The slightly smaller diameter of ball 93 shown in FIG. 1 allows ball 93 to be seated in ball opening 92 with a portion of ball 93 extending into rod interior 97 while preventing ball 93 from completely passing through ball opening 92 and falling into rod interior 97. Figure 5 As shown, a flexible resilient steel spring collar 94 is mounted about the rod 92 which holds the ball 93 in or against the ball opening 92 .

[0089] like Figure 7 As shown, when the guide head 12 is fully inserted into the rod interior 97, the ball stopper 13 in the guide head 12 is aligned with the ball opening 92 so that the portion of the ball 93 extending into the rod interior is seated in the ball stopper 13. Fig.25 When the guide head 12 is withdrawn from the interior 97 of the rod 91 , the ball 93 is urged away from the ball detent 13 through the ball opening 92 in a direction radially outward from the center axis C.

[0090] When the lock selector 44 is in the unlocked position, the ball 93 is allowed to move out of the rod interior 97 and into the unoccupied space at the interior of the locking collar 44. When the locking collar 44 is in the locked position, the ball 93 is prevented from moving radially outward and is retained in the ball detent 13 by the internal seat of the locking collar 44.

[0091] Go to Fig.11 , for ease of description, the locking collar 44 is shown separately. The locking collar 44 includes an annular wall 45 having a grooved outer surface that facilitates gripping by a user's fingers. The annular wall 45 includes an external indication protrusion that includes a raised rib 46. An internal seat including an internal radial protrusion 98 is located on the side of the wall 45 opposite the raised rib 46. On the side of the radial protrusion 98, there is an unoccupied space 99 inside the locking collar 44.

[0092] Return to Figure 7 , the locking collar 44 is shown in a locked position corresponding to a locked mode in which the seat 98 is aligned with the ball opening 92, thereby retaining the ball in the ball detent 13 and thereby locking the guide head 12 to prevent its removal. Fig.25 , the locking collar 44 is shown in an unlocked position corresponding to the unlocked mode, and wherein the abutment 98 is not aligned with the ball opening 92. In the unlocked mode, the ball 93 can therefore be urged out of the ball detent 13 through the ball opening 92 and into the unoccupied space 99 within the locking collar 44, thereby allowing the guide head 12 to be withdrawn from the rod interior 97.

[0093] The locking collar 44 surrounds the stem portion 77 of the base collar 76. Fig.10 As previously mentioned, the underside of the base collar 76 includes a locked indicia 48 and an unlocked indicia 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the indicia 48, 50 are composed of the words "locked" and "unlocked", respectively, but it should be understood that other indicia, such as locked or unlocked symbols or pictograms, may be used.

[0094] The first notch 49 is adjacent to the locking mark 48 and the second notch 51 is adjacent to the unlocking mark 51. The notches 49, 51 provide a visual indicator with which the user can align the raised rib 46. For example, the locking collar 44 can be rotated to the first notch 49 adjacent to the locking mark 48, which indicates to the user that the locking collar 44 (and therefore the pilot drill connection device) is in the locking mode.

[0095] The stem portion 77 of the base collar 76 includes a locking collar retaining device including a triangular rib 69 connected to the stem portion 77 by a flexible resilient web 79 that allows the rib 69 to resiliently move in a radial direction relative to the central axis C. The web 79 may be formed of a resilient polymer, such as nylon or other suitable resilient material.

[0096] The rib 69 corresponds to a pair of triangular grooves 67a, 67b in the inner surface of the locking collar 44, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 As shown. Each groove 67a, 67b is associated with one of a locked position and an unlocked position. When the locking collar is in the locked position, the rib 69 engages with the groove 67b to hold the locking collar in the selected position. When rotating clockwise, the elasticity of the web 79 is overcome, and the friction member 69 is pushed radially during the rotation of the locking collar 44, and the elasticity of the web 79 urges the rib 69 radially outward against the interior of the locking collar. Once the locking collar 44 reaches the unlocked position, the rib 69 snaps into the triangular groove 67a to hold the locking collar in the unlocked position to prevent accidental rotation.

[0097] The stem portion 77 also includes a circumferential groove 100 that extends approximately 90° around the circumference of the stem portion 77. The groove includes a pair of opposing end faces 100a and 100b that contact the inner radial protrusion 98 of the locking collar 44 when the locking collar is in the locked position or the unlocked position. This prevents the locking collar 44 from rotating 360° about the central axis and limits the rotation of the locking collar 44 to 90° of rotation between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0098] Fig. 22 The spindle 10 is shown with a hole saw 118 mounted thereon having a relatively thick base 120 . Fig. 22 The thickness B1 of the base 120 is indicated in FIG. To accommodate the use of a relatively thick base 120, the adjustable shim 34 has been withdrawn into the shim adjustment collar 40 by manual rotation of the shim adjustment collar 40 that is threadedly engaged with the shim 34. The shim 34 is substantially flush with (or protrudes only very slightly beyond) the edge of the shim adjustment collar 40.

[0099] Fig.23The same spindle 10 is shown being used with a hole saw 18 having a thinner base than the base of hole saw 118. The hole saw 18 has a base 20 having a thickness B2, which is less than B1. To accommodate the thinner base 20, the adjustable shim 34 is selectively extended until in contact with the underside 23 of the hole saw 18 and presses the base 20 against the clamping lip 54 in contact with the top side 21 of the base 20. In this manner, the hole saw base 20 is clamped between the clamping lip 54 and the adjustable shim 34, thereby providing a secure and stable connection during use of the spindle 10 with a rotary tool.

[0100] Therefore, it should be appreciated that, through operation of the shim adjustment collar 40 , the arbor 10 may be securely connected to hole saws having different base thicknesses and renders the arbor 10 compatible with a wider variety of hole saws.

[0101] Fig.23 The hole saw 18 is shown removably connected to the spindle 10 and with the drive pin 30 located within the drive pin hole 28 and the clamp 52 extending through the central mounting hole 26. The clamps 52 are shown in an expanded configuration, with the clamps 52 spaced apart from each other such that the expanded distance D between the outer edges of the clamp lips 54 is E Greater than the diameter D of the mounting hole 26 A In this configuration, the clamp lip overlaps the top side 21 of the hole base 20, thereby clamping the hole saw 18 to the mandrel 10. The clamp 52 is in the coil spring 86 ( Figure 5 The coil spring 86 urges the clamps 52 to separate from each other under the bias of the coil spring 86 to maintain the normally expanded configuration.

[0102] Fig.24 Shown with Fig.23 The same components, but the clamping device is moved to the retracted configuration to allow the hole saw 18 to be disconnected and removed from the spindle 10. The sliding collar 42 has been manually slid in a downward direction (i.e., toward the drive handle 14) along the central axis C to Fig.23 The position shown. Due to the connection between the base collar connection flange 74 and the sliding ring groove 72, the movement of the sliding collar 42 simultaneously moves the base collar 76 along the central axis. The locking collar 44 is similarly moved along the central axis by being assembled around the rod 77 of the base collar 76.

[0103] The movement of the inwardly facing inclined surface 62 applies a force to the outwardly facing inclined surface 58 of the clamp 52, which is perpendicular to the plane of the inclined surfaces 62, 58 and includes a component in the radially inward direction. This force overcomes the bias of the spring 86 pushing outward, causing the clamp 52 to move radially inward. This movement is also guided and facilitated by the engagement between the underside inclined surface 59 of the clamp 52 and the inclined surface 90 of the angle plate, which limits or prevents the movement of the clamp in the direction of the central axis and guides the radially inward movement of the clamp 52.

[0104] Thus, the clamp 52 moves to Fig.24 The collapsed configuration shown, wherein the clamps contact each other and wherein the collapsed distance D between the outer edges of the clamp lips 54 is c Approximately equal to or slightly smaller than the diameter D of the central mounting hole 26 A Thus, the clamp lip 52 no longer contacts the top side 21 of the hole saw base 20 , and the hole saw 18 is no longer secured to the arbor 10 and can be manually removed by lifting the hole saw 18 off the drive pin 30 .

[0105] When the sliding collar 42 is manually released, the device returns to the position under the influence of the spring 86. Fig.23 In the configuration shown in FIG. 8 , the spring 86 urges the clamps 52 apart, thereby pulling the sliding collar 42 back along the central axis to its normal position, which corresponds to the deployed configuration of the clamping device 32 .

[0106] The components of the spindle 10 may be formed from a variety of suitable materials. Components of the spindle 10 that are subject to high loads or that come into contact with the hole saw (typically steel) may themselves be formed from steel. For example, the body 70, the top plate 80 including the drive pin 30, and the spacer 34 may be formed from a steel such as 40cr steel. Other components such as the sliding collar 42 and the base collar 76 may be made from a polymer such as nylon. The locking collar 44 may be formed from a thermoplastic such as acetal (polyoxymethylene). Components configured to slide repeatedly against each other, such as the angle plate 88 and the clamp 52 may be made from an iron-nickel alloy. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that alternative suitable materials may be appropriate.

[0107] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to changes and modifications other than those specifically described. It should be understood that the invention includes all such changes and modifications that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0108] When any or all of the terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," or "comprising" are used in this specification (including the claims), they should be interpreted as specifying stated features, integers, steps or components, but not excluding the presence of one or more other features, integers, steps or components.

Claims

1. A quick-change hole saw arbor for a hole saw having a base with a central circular mounting hole and a drive pin hole, the arbor comprising: a drive shank extending along a central axis of the spindle for releasably engaging a rotary tool; a mounting end opposite the drive shank, configured to be removably coupled to the mounting hole of the hole saw and including a drive pin for engaging the drive pin hole of the hole saw; a clamping device at the mounting end, the clamping device being insertable through the mounting hole to clamp the hole saw base, the clamping device having a normally deployed configuration, wherein in the normally deployed configuration the clamping device clamps the base to resist movement along the central axis, and selectively movable to a retracted configuration, wherein in the retracted configuration the clamping device is insertable into or removable from the mounting hole; and A quick release guide head connection device, the quick release guide head connection device is used to couple a quick release guide head to the spindle, the connection device is configured to receive the guide head through a guide head hole, the guide head hole extends through the center of the clamping device, and the guide head connection device includes a guide head locking selector, the guide head locking selector is used to select between an unlocked mode that allows quick removal and quick insertion of the guide head and a locked mode in which the guide head is locked to prevent removal from the guide head connection device.

2. The spindle of claim 1, the lock selector comprising a locking collar rotatable about the central axis between an unlocked position corresponding to the unlocked mode and a locked position corresponding to the locked mode.

3. The spindle of claim 2, the guide head connection device being configured for use with a ball detent hex shank guide head and including a ball detent device including a ball positionable in a ball detent of the hex shank for locking the shank to prevent removal.

4. The spindle of claim 3, said locking collar including an internal seat that retains said ball in said ball detent of said hexagonal shank in said locked position.

5. The arbor of any one of the preceding claims, comprising an adjustable shim at the mounting end, the adjustable shim configured to facilitate use of the arbor with hole saws of varying base thicknesses.

6. The arbor of claim 5, said shim being movable along said central axis relative to said clamping device to accommodate various hole saw base thicknesses.

7. The spindle of claim 6, the shim being configured to contact an underside of the hole saw base and clamp the hole saw base between the shim and a portion of the clamping device.

8. A spindle according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a sliding collar manually movable along the central axis for selectively moving the clamping means to the retracted configuration.

9. The spindle of claim 8, wherein movement of the sliding collar toward the drive shank causes the clamping device to move to the retracted configuration.

10. An arbor as claimed in claim 8 or claim 9, said clamping means comprising a pair of clamps, each said clamp comprising a distal end projecting from said mounting end and having a jaw for engaging a base of said hole saw.

11. The spindle of claim 10, said jaws of each of said clamps being generally semicircular, and wherein: In the retracted configuration, the pair of jaws form a substantially circular configuration.

12. The spindle of claim 10 or 11, the pair of jaws being configured to contact a top side of the hole saw base and clamp the hole saw base between the mounting end and the jaws.

13. The mandrel of claims 10 to 12, a pair of said clamps being spaced apart from each other in said expanded configuration and moving towards each other in said collapsed configuration.

14. The spindle of claim 13, the clamp being movable in a direction perpendicular to the central axis.

15. The spindle of any one of claims 10 to 14, each of the clamps comprising an outwardly facing inclined surface in contact with a corresponding inwardly facing inclined surface on the sliding collar, and wherein the inwardly facing inclined surface of the sliding collar pushes the outwardly facing inclined surface of the clamp toward the central axis and into the retracted configuration toward the drive handle.

16. A spindle according to claim 15, further comprising an angle plate having a pair of inclined surfaces in contact with corresponding inclined surfaces on the lower side of the clamp, and wherein the contact between the inclined surfaces on the lower side of the clamp and the inclined surfaces of the angle plate promotes movement of the clamp toward the contracted configuration.

17. A spindle according to any preceding claim, the clamping means comprising biasing means urging the clamping means towards the deployed configuration.

18. The spindle of claim 17, said biasing means comprising a pair of coil springs positioned between a pair of said clamps.

19. An arbor according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a pair of drive pins configured to engage with a pair of drive pin holes in a hole saw, the pair of drive pins being located on opposite sides of the clamping device.

20. A hole saw assembly comprising: A hole saw having a base and an annular wall extending from the base and having a toothed cutting edge, the base including a central circular mounting hole and at least one drive pin hole; a quick release guide bit, the quick release guide bit comprising a ball detent hexagonal shank drill bit; A quick-change hole saw arbor, the quick-change hole saw arbor comprising a drive shank extending along the central axis of the arbor, the drive shank being adapted to releasably engage with a rotary tool; a mounting end opposite the drive shank being detachably connected to the mounting hole of the hole saw and comprising a drive pin engaging with the drive pin hole of the hole saw; a clamping device at the mounting end, the clamping device being inserted into the mounting hole and clamping the hole saw base, the clamping device having a normally deployed configuration, wherein in the normally deployed configuration, the clamping device clamps the base to prevent the base from being moved along the central axis. movement of the axis and selectively movable to a retracted configuration in which the clamping device is removable from the mounting hole in the retracted configuration; and a quick release guide head connection device for coupling a quick release guide head to the spindle, the guide head connection device receiving the guide head through a guide head hole extending through the center of the clamping device, the guide head connection device including a guide head locking selector for selecting between an unlocked mode that allows quick removal and quick insertion of the guide head and a locked mode in which the guide head is locked to prevent removal from the connection device.

Images