Saw assembly with swivel joint extraction device

Abstract

Saw arrangement (100), with: a drive element (144) adapted to be moved in a repeating pattern; a motor (136) configured to move the drive member (144) in the repeating pattern; a housing (104) defining an interior space (128) in which the motor (136) is positioned; and a base (456) having (i) a base (458) with an upper surface (464) and a lower contact surface (466) of the workpiece, and (ii) a conductive structure (474) attached to the upper surface (464) of the base (456), wherein the housing (104) is pivotally mounted on the line structure (474), wherein the conduit structure (474) defines a first conduit opening (478), a second conduit opening (480) and a conduit section (476) extending therebetween, and wherein the housing (104) defines (i) a dust inlet (530) positioned in fluid communication with the first conduit opening (478), and (ii) a dust outlet (534) positioned in fluid communication with the second conduit opening (480).

Description

Technical field

[0001] This patent relates generally to power tools and, more particularly, to power tools having a suction device for use with a dust collection system. Background of the invention

[0002] Circular saws are a type of power tool used for cutting and shaping workpieces such as hardwood, commercial wood products, structural lumber, and other materials. The typical circular saw features a circular blade, which generates dust and debris as the rotating blade moves through the workpiece during a cut. Generally, the dust and debris interfere with the cutting operation by obscuring the operator's view of the workpiece and by dispersing into the surrounding airspace. Consequently, it is desirable to collect the dust generated by the circular saw with a dust collection system.

[0003] Dust collection systems for use with a circular saw include a vacuum source fluidly connected to the circular saw via a vacuum line. In particular, known circular saws include a dust channel having an input port and an output port. The input port is positioned to capture the dust and debris as it is generated by the saw blade. The output port is fluidly connected to the vacuum line. When the vacuum source is activated, the dust and debris generated by the blade of the circular saw are drawn into the input port, through the dust channel, out the output port, and through the vacuum line, where it is collected in a waste container for disposal or reuse.

[0004] For example, US 2006 / 0 191 140 A1 describes a duct mechanism for directing an airflow toward a working element of a power cutting tool having a housing, a motor within the housing, a working element actuatable by the motor, and a shoe pivotally mounted relative to the working element and engageable with a workpiece, the mechanism comprising an inlet means, an outlet device, and at least one connecting portion for connecting the inlet device and the outlet device. US 6 557 261 B1 describes a device for collecting and displacing debris generated during use of a power circular saw.Furthermore, JP 2007-130 771 A describes an electric cutting tool comprising a flat plate, a cutting blade, a drive unit that rotates the cutting blade, and a main body including a housing for accommodating a fan for cooling the drive unit. The fan is mounted on a support placed on the surface plate and moves the housing up and down. US 2010 / 0 325 903 A1 describes a lightweight plunge-cut saw that can be operated with one hand. Most users desire a circular saw with a housing that is robust and compact. However, some known dust ducts increase the size of the housing, making the circular saw unwieldy for storage and transport.It is therefore desired to provide a circular saw having a robust and compact housing incorporating a dust duct positioned to effectively collect the dust and debris generated by the blade of the circular saw. Summary

[0005] According to the present invention, a saw assembly is provided having the features of claim 1 and claim 8, respectively. In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a saw assembly comprises a drive member, a motor, a housing, and a base. The drive member is configured to be moved in a repeating pattern. The motor is configured to move the drive member in a repeating pattern. The housing defines an interior space in which the motor is positioned. The base includes (i) a base having an upper surface and a lower workpiece contact surface, and (ii) a guide structure attached to the upper surface of the base. The housing is pivotally mounted to the guide structure. Short description of the characters

[0006] The features and advantages described above, as well as others, should be more readily apparent to those skilled in the art by reference to the following detailed description and the accompanying figures, in which: Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a first side of a saw assembly as described herein; Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of an opposite side of the saw assembly of Fig. 1; Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view along the line III-III of Fig. 1; Fig. 4 shows a portion of the cross-sectional view of Fig. 3; Fig. Figure 5 is a front perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows a protective structure and a flat cutting wheel; Fig. Figure 6 is a front perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows the protective structure and a flush cutting wheel; Fig. Figure 7 shows a front view of the flat cutting wheel for use with the saw assembly of Fig. 1; Fig. 8 shows a side view of the flat cutting wheel of Fig. 7; Fig. Figure 9 shows a front perspective view of the flush cutting wheel for use with the saw assembly of Fig. 1; Fig. 10 shows a side view of the flush cutting wheel of Fig. 9; Fig. 11 is a side view of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows a lock-out power switch; Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a portion of the lockout power switch of Fig. 11; Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the lockout power switch of Fig. 11; Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows the lockout power switch in an off position; Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows the lock switch in an on position; Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows a power-on interlock structure for maintaining the lockout power switch in the on position, the power-on interlock structure being shown in a disengaged position; Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, showing the power-on lock structure in a latched position; Fig. Figure 18 is a side view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows the protective structure of the saw assembly and the flat cutting wheel; Fig. 19 is a bottom plan view of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows the flush cutting wheel positioned in a protective pocket of the protective structure. Fig. 20 is a perspective side view of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows the saw assembly halfway through a cutting operation of a workpiece; Fig. 21 is a side perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows a base of the saw assembly in a position of maximum cutting depth and also shows a spring for preloading the base; Fig. Figure 22 is a side perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows the base of the saw assembly in the position of maximum cutting depth and also shows the spring for preloading the base; Fig. 23 is a side perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows the base of the saw assembly in a position of minimum cutting depth and also shows the spring for preloading the base; Fig. 24 is a top perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which the spring of Fig. 21 shows how it is received by the stand; Fig. Figure 25 is a perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly showing an inlet exhaust device and an adapter; Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, the adapter and a vacuum hose, in addition, a schematic view of a vacuum source and a waste container is also shown; Fig. Figure 27 is a perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows an inner surface of the suction device; Fig. 28 is a perspective view of the adapter of Fig. 25; Fig. 29 is a perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows a portion of a bottom locking assembly; Fig. 30 is a perspective view of a clamping component of the bottom locking assembly of Fig. 29. Fig. 31 is a perspective view of a handle of the bottom locking assembly of Fig. 29; Fig. 32 is a perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which is another area of the assembly for locking the bottom of Fig. 29 shows; Fig. 33 is a side view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which shows a depth gauge and an angle gauge and also shows the base in the position of the minimum cutting depth; Fig. 34 is a plan view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1, which has a tear bar arrangement attached thereto; Fig. 35 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of the saw assembly of Fig. 1 and the tear bar arrangement of Fig. 34; Fig. 36 is a top perspective view of the saw assembly of Fig. 1 and the tear bar arrangement of Fig. 34 halfway through a cutting operation of the workpiece; Fig. 37 shows a perspective view from below of the saw assembly of Fig. 1 with a portion of a housing of the saw assembly removed to show a gear housing of the saw assembly; Fig. 38 is a side view showing the saw assembly of Fig. 1 shows which is connected to a table saw assembly; Fig. Figure 39 shows a top perspective view of a cutting guide for use with the saw assembly of Fig. 1; Fig. 40 shows a top view of the cutting line of Fig. 39; Fig. 41 shows a perspective view from above of the section of Fig. 39; Fig. 42 shows a perspective view from above of the saw assembly of Fig. 1 and the cutting line of Fig. 39, wherein the saw assembly is positioned to make a miter cut through a workpiece; Fig. 43 shows a perspective view from below of the saw assembly of Fig. 1 and the cutting line of Fig. 39, wherein the cutting wheel extends from the saw assembly through a cutting gap from the cutting guide; Fig. Figure 44 is a top perspective view of a cutting guide for use with the saw assembly of Fig. 1; Fig. 45 shows a top view of the cutting line of Fig. 44; Fig. 46 shows a perspective view from below of the cut of Fig. 44; Fig. 47 shows a plan view from below of the cutting line of Fig. 44; Fig. Figure 48 shows a perspective view from below of the stand of the saw assembly of Fig. 1 in isolation; Fig. 49 shows a rear perspective view of the stand of the saw assembly of Fig. 1 in isolation; Fig. 50 is a bottom perspective view of the saw assembly of Fig. 1 and the cutting line of Fig. 39; Fig. 51 is a perspective view of a deburring accessory for use with the saw assembly of Fig. 1; Fig. 52 is a perspective view of the accessory for deburring Fig. 51, which was cut with the machine saw from Fig. 1 is connected; Fig. 53 is a plan view of the accessory for deburring Fig. 51; and Fig. 54 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of Fig. 53, which shows the deburring accessory positioned for deburring a first pipe and a second pipe. Detailed description of embodiments

[0007] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described in the following written specification. It should be understood that no limitation on the scope of the disclosure is intended thereby. It is understood that the disclosure includes any changes and modifications to the illustrated embodiments and further includes applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0008] As in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, a saw assembly 100 includes a housing 104. The housing 104 includes a shell 108, a rear housing portion 110 having an upper left shell 112 and an upper right shell 116, and a front housing portion 118 having a lower left shell 120 and a lower right shell 124. The upper left shell 112 and the upper right shell 116 are connected to a rear side of the shell 108, and the lower left shell 120 and the lower right shell 124 are connected to a front side of the shell 108. Movement from the rear housing portion 110 to the front housing portion 118 is defined herein as being in the forward direction 126. While movement from the front housing portion 118 to the rear housing portion 110 is defined herein as being in the reverse direction 130. The housing 104 is formed of injection-molded thermoplastic and defines an interior space 128 ( Fig. 3) within the housing 104. drive

[0009] As in Fig. 3, a drive 132 is positioned at least partially within the interior space 128 defined by the housing 104. The drive 132 includes an electric motor 136, a worm gear 140, a drive element 144, and a mandrel assembly 148. The electric motor 136 is positioned at least partially within the interior space 128 and includes a stator 152 and a rotor 156. The stator 152 is fixedly connected to the shell 108 of the housing 104 within the interior space 128. The stator 152 generates a magnetic field within a rotor space 164.

[0010] The rotor 156 includes a winding portion 168 and a motor shaft 172. The winding portion 168 is fixedly connected to the motor shaft 172 and is positioned at least partially within the rotor space 164. The motor shaft 172 is a generally cylindrical metal shaft extending from the rotor space 164 and supported for rotation relative to the stator 152 and the housing 104 about a motor axis 176. The rotor 156 and the motor shaft 172 rotate relative to the stator 152 and the housing 104 when the electric motor 136 is supplied with electrical power.

[0011] With reference to Fig. 3, the motor 136 is supplied with electrical power by means of a power cord 178 extending through a rear housing opening 182. It should be noted that the forward direction 126 may also be defined herein as the path of movement from the power cord 178 toward the drive member 144.

[0012] As in Fig. 4, the motor shaft 172 includes a set of external threads 180 and a smooth shaft portion 184, defining a shoulder 188. The external threads 180 are located at an end portion 192 of the motor shaft 172. The smooth shaft portion 184 is located between the external threads 180 and the shoulder 188. The smooth shaft portion 184 is a cylindrical portion of the motor shaft 172.

[0013] The worm gear 140 is positioned in the interior 128 of the housing 104 and, in particular, is positioned within a metallic gear housing 196 ( Fig. 3). The worm gear 140 includes a set of worm gear teeth 200, a bore structure 204, and a worm gear shaft 208. The bore structure 204 defines a blind hole 212 and an opening 216 leading to the blind hole 212. The bore structure 204 includes a set of internal threads 220 and a smooth bore portion 224. The internal threads 220 are positioned within the blind hole 212 at a position spaced from the opening 216. The internal threads 220 are configured to mesh with the external threads 180 of the motor shaft 172 to connect the worm gear 140 to the motor shaft 172. The smooth bore portion 224 is positioned within the blind hole 212 between the internal threads 220 and the opening 216.

[0014] With reference to Fig. 4, the worm gear shaft 208 is coupled to the motor shaft 172 such that rotation of the motor shaft 172 causes rotation of the worm gear 140 about the motor axis 176. Specifically, the external threads 180 are disposed within the blind hole 212 such that the external threads 180 mesh with the internal threads 220 to connect the worm gear 140 to the motor shaft 172. Once the external threads 180 mesh with the internal threads 220, the opening 216 is moved closer to the shoulder 188. When the worm gear shaft 208 is coupled to the motor shaft 172, the opening 216 is positioned adjacent the shoulder 188.

[0015] The uniform bore portion 224 of the bore structure 204 cooperates with the uniform shaft portion 184 of the motor shaft 172 to precisely align the worm gear 140 with the motor shaft 172. To this end, the uniform shaft portion 184 defines an outer diameter 222, and the uniform bore portion defines an inner diameter 226. The outer diameter 222 and the inner diameter 226 are substantially equal (the outer diameter is slightly smaller than the inner diameter to allow access from the motor shaft 172 into the bore 224), so the uniform shaft portion 184 fills the uniform bore portion 224, causing the worm gear 140 to align with the motor shaft 172.

[0016] As in Fig. 3, the motor shaft 172 and the worm gear 140 are supported by a floating bearing 228, a floating bearing 232, and a floating bearing 236. The floating bearing 236 supports a right end portion of the motor shaft 172, the floating bearing 232 supports a left end portion of the motor shaft 172, and the floating bearing 228 supports a left end portion of the worm gear 140.

[0017] As in Fig. 4, the floating bearing 228 includes an inner ring 240, an outer ring 244, numerous ball bearings 248, and an elastomeric support member 252. The inner ring 240 is fixedly connected to the worm gear 140 for rotation with the worm gear 140. The ball bearings 248 are positioned between the inner ring 240 and the outer ring 244. The outer ring 244 is received by the elastomeric support member 252. The elastomeric support member 252 is received by the gear housing 196. The inner ring 240 is configured to rotate relative to the outer ring 244 and the elastomeric support member 252 in response to rotation of the worm gear 140. The floating bearing 232 and the floating bearing 236 are substantially identical except that the inner races of the floating bearings 232, 236 are fixedly connected to the motor shaft 172 and the elastomeric support member 252 of the floating bearing 236 is received by the housing 104.

[0018] The floating bearing 228 is referred to as "floating" because the elastomeric support member 252 allows movement of the inner race 240 and the outer race 244 relative to the gear housing 196 and the housing 104. Accordingly, the floating bearings 228, 232, 236 are useful for dampening vibrations from the motor shaft 172 and the worm gear 140 that occur due to machine tolerances and other factors that cause the motor shaft 172 and the worm gear 140 to be slightly out of balance. The floating bearings 228, 232, 236 dampen these vibrations, making the saw assembly 100 comfortable to hold during cutting operations.

[0019] With reference to Fig. 4, the input member 144 of the drive 132 is operatively coupled to the worm gear 140 and includes a gear train 256 and a drive shaft 260, both of which are at least partially positioned within the gear housing 196. The gear train 256 includes a set of teeth 264 positioned to mesh with the worm gear teeth 200. The drive shaft 260 is fixedly connected to the gear train 256 such that rotation of the worm gear 140 results in movement of the drive shaft 260 in a repeating pattern. In particular, when the electric motor 136 is energized, rotation of the motor shaft 172 and the worm gear 140 results in rotation of the drive shaft 260 about a rotational axis 268 (see Fig. 1, extends in and out of the side of Fig. 4), which is perpendicular to the motor axis 176 of the motor shaft 172. The rotational axis 268 and the motor axis 176 are not coincident. The motor axis 176 is perpendicular to the plane of the motor axis 272 and the rotational axis 268 of the drive shaft 260, and the gear train 256 is perpendicular to a plane of the drive shaft 278 (not shown, parallel to a surface 280 of the gear train 256). The plane of the motor axis 272 is perpendicular to the plane of the drive shaft 278. A portion of the drive shaft 260 extends through an opening 282 ( Fig. 1) in the lower right shell 124 of the front housing area 118.

[0020] As in Fig. 1, the mandrel assembly 148 includes a mandrel screw 284, a spacer 288 (also shown in Fig. 19), and a washer 292. The mandrel screw 284 extends through an opening (not shown) of the spacer 288, an opening (not shown) of the washer 292, and is threadingly received by a threaded opening (not shown) of the drive shaft 260. As in Fig. 5, the mandrel assembly 148 connects a flat cutting wheel 296 to the saw assembly 100 for rotation with the drive shaft 260. As shown in Fig. 6, the mandrel assembly 148 connects a flush cutting wheel 300 to the saw assembly 100 for rotation with the drive shaft 260.

[0021] As in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8, the flat cutting wheel 296, also referred to herein as a flat cutting disc or a flat saw element, is generally circular and includes a flat hub portion 304 and a cutting structure 308. The hub portion 304 defines an opening 312 in the center of the cutting wheel 296 through which the mandrel screw 284 extends when the cutting wheel 296 is mounted to the drive shaft 260. The cutting structure 308 is positioned on the periphery of the cutting wheel 296. As shown in Fig. 8, a plane 316 extends through the hub region 304 and the cutting structure 308. The cutting structure 308 is abrasive and is formed at least partially from hard metal.

[0022] As in Fig. 9 and Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the flush cutting wheel 300 is generally circular and includes a dome-shaped hub portion 320 and a cutting structure 324. The dome-shaped hub portion 320 defines an opening 312 in the center of the cutting wheel 300 through which the mandrel screw 284 extends when the cutting wheel 300 is mounted to the drive shaft 260. The cutting structure 324 is positioned on the periphery of the cutting wheel 300. A hub plane 332 extends through the hub portion 320, and a cutting plane 336 extends through the cutting structure 324. The hub plane 332 is parallel to the cutting plane 336 and is offset from the cutting plane 336 such that the cutting plane 336 extends farther from the mandrel assembly 148 than the plane 316 does from the flat cutting wheel 296 when the cutting wheel 300 is mounted to the drive shaft 260.

[0023] The cutting structure 308 of the cutting wheel 296 and the cutting structure 324 of the cutting wheel 300 each include numerous scalloped edges 340. The scalloped edges 340 assist in clearing debris from a saw cut formed in a workpiece during cutting operations.

[0024] Cutting structure 308 and cutting structure 324 distinguish cutting wheel 296 and cutting wheel 300 from conventional saw blades (not shown) that have cutting teeth. Accordingly, when one of cutting wheels 296, 300 is connected to saw assembly 100, saw assembly 100 may be referred to as a grinder or a circular saw. When a conventional saw blade is connected to saw assembly 100, saw assembly 100 may be referred to as a circular saw. Locking network switch

[0025] As in Fig. 11, Fig. 12, and Fig. 13, the saw assembly 100 includes a power lever 342 for operating a switching unit 394 ( Fig. 14) which couples the electrical energy to the electric motor 136. The power lever 342 has a trigger, referred to herein as a blade 344, a locking lever 346, and a spring 348 ( Fig. 12 and Fig. 13).

[0026] The blade 344 includes a pivot structure 350 and an abutment structure 352, defining a blade cavity 354 and a contact surface 356. The pivot structure 350 is positioned at an end portion of the blade 344 and includes a barb 360. The barb 360 of the pivot structure 350 is positioned within the interior space 128 defined by the housing 104. Specifically, when the barb 360 is inserted into the housing 104, it engages the housing 104 to prevent the blade 344 from being removed from the housing 104.

[0027] The blade 344 pivots about a pivot structure 350 between an off position (also referred to herein as the off position) ( Fig. 14) and an On position (herein also referred to as the switched-on position) ( Fig. 15) around a path of movement 362. As in Fig. 11, the blade 344 extends at least partially through a housing opening 358 formed in both the shell 108 and the rear housing portion 110.

[0028] As in Fig. 14, the abutment structure 352 is positioned at an opposite end portion of the blade 344 and is positioned at least partially within the interior space 128 of the housing 104. The abutment structure 352 includes a switch surface 364 disposed on a top surface of the abutment structure 352 and a catch or locking recess 366 disposed on a lower / opposite side of the abutment structure 352. The switch surface 364 is positioned to engage an actuator 398 of a switch unit 394 of the saw assembly 100. The locking recess 366 cooperates with a locking structure 402 of the saw assembly 100, as described below.

[0029] With reference to Fig. 13, the bucket cavity 354 is formed in the bucket 344 between the pivot structure 350 and the abutment structure 352 on an outer side of the bucket 344 facing away from the electric motor 136. The bucket cavity 354 defines a generally concave surface of the bucket cavity 372. The bucket cavity 354 receives at least a portion of the locking lever 346 and at least a portion of the spring 348. The bucket cavity 354 has a length of approximately 2.5 centimeters (2.5 cm) and a width of approximately 2.0 centimeters (2.0 cm).

[0030] The bucket 344 includes an opening 368, an opening 370, and a lever opening 374. The opening 368 and the opening 370 are in fluid communication with the bucket cavity 354 and are used to pivotally connect the locking lever 346 to the bucket 344, as described below. The lever opening 374 is formed in the surface of the cavity 372 and fluidly couples the interior space 128 to the bucket cavity 354.

[0031] The contact surface 356 is at least a portion of the outer side of the blade 344. The contact surface 356 is a portion of the power lever 342 that a user contacts to use the power lever 342. The contact surface 356 is a convex surface so that it fits comfortably in the user's hand. The contact surface 356 has a width of approximately 2.3 centimeters (2.3 cm) and a length of approximately 6.0 centimeters (6.0 cm).

[0032] The locking lever 346 includes a finger contact area provided as an actuator area 376, a connecting structure 378, and a locking element provided as a locking tab 380. The actuator area 376 extends from the connecting structure 378 and is generally semicircular in shape.

[0033] The connecting structure 378 defines a pivot opening 382 for receiving a pivot shaft 384. In particular, the pivot shaft 384 extends through the opening 368, the pivot opening 382, and the opening 370 to pivotally connect the locking lever 346 to the bucket 344. The locking lever 346 extends through the lever opening 374 formed in the bucket 344 and in the interior space 128. The locking lever 346 pivots about the pivot shaft 384 between a locking or locked position ( Fig. 14) and an unlocked or an unlocked position ( Fig. 15).

[0034] The locking tab 380 extends from the connecting structure 378 and is at least partially positioned within the interior space 128. The locking tab 380 is positioned on a generally opposite side of the connecting structure 378 from the actuator portion 376. As shown in Fig. 14, when the locking lever 346 is in the locked position, the locking tab 380 is positioned in a first position relative to the blade 344 against a stop structure 386 of the housing 104. As shown in Fig. 15, when the locking tab 380 is in the unlocked position, the locking tab 380 is moved to a second position relative to the blade 344 away from the stop structure 386.

[0035] Now again with reference to Fig. 13, the spring 348 is a torsion spring comprising a spring band 388, an arm 390, and an arm 392. The pivot shaft 384 extends through the spring band 388 to position the arm 392 against the surface of the cavity 372 and the arm 390 against the actuator portion 376. The spring 348 biases the locking lever 346 toward the locked position, as shown in Fig. 14. In particular, the spring 348 biases the actuator portion 376 in the reverse direction 130 ( Fig. 14) and tensions the locking tab 380 in the forward direction 126 ( Fig. 14).

[0036] As in Fig. 14, the switching unit 394, which is actuated by the power lever 342, has a switching element 396 and an actuator 398, which is positioned in the interior 128 of the housing 104. The actuator 398 is movable between an actuated position ( Fig. 15) and an unactuated position ( Fig. 14). When the actuator 398 is in the actuated position, the switching element 396 couples electrical power to the electric motor 136, and the electric motor 136 operates to move the drive shaft 260 in the repeating pattern. When the actuator 398 is in the unactuated position, the switching element 396 decouples electrical power from the electric motor 136, and the motor is not operated to move the drive shaft 260 in the repeating pattern. The actuator 398 is biased in the unactuated position by the spring 348. The actuator 398 contacts the switch surface 364 of the vane 344 to bias the vane 344 toward the off position.

[0037] The power lever 342 prevents users from accidentally turning on the electric motor 136. As in Fig. 14, the bucket 344 is in the off position, and the locking lever 346 is in the locked position. When the locking lever 346 is in the locked position, the locking lever 346 prevents the bucket 344 from being moved to the on position due to a physical interaction of the locking tab 380 and the stop structure 386. In particular, as shown in Fig. 14, the locking tab 380 is positioned against the stop structure 386 to prevent movement of the bucket 344. Pivoting forces exerted on the bucket 344, which tend to move the abutment structure 352 toward the electric motor 136 around the path of movement 362, clamp the locking tab 380 against the stop structure 386 and the portion 400 of the bucket 344 such that no pivoting movement of the bucket 344 occurs.

[0038] With reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15, when the locking lever 346 is in the unlocked position, movement of the bucket 344 to the engaged position is possible due to the locking tab 380 being moved away from the stop structure 386. Accordingly, to engage the electric motor 136, the locking lever 346 is first moved to the unlocked position, and then the bucket 344 is pivoted to the engaged position. The locking lever 346 is pivoted to the unlocked position by moving the actuator portion 376 in the forward direction 126. Pivoting the locking lever 346 is typically accomplished by pressing the tip of the little finger against the actuator portion 376 and then compressing the actuator portion 376 against the surface of the cavity 372. The movement in the forward direction 126 of the actuator portion 376 causes the locking tab 380 to move in the reverse direction 130.

[0039] The actuator 398 is moved to the on position and the switch 394 energizes the electric motor 136 in response to the vane 344 moving to the on position. As shown in Fig. 15, when the locking lever 346 is in the unlocked position, the locking tab 380 is positioned behind the stop structure 386 so that the locking tab 380 is misaligned with the stop structure 386 and does not interfere with the pivoting of the paddle 344. The paddle 344 is moved to the engaged position by squeezing the paddle 344. When moving the paddle 344 to the engaged position, the fingers typically contact the contact surface 356 and the palm of the hand contacts an upper side of the sleeve 108. The user moves the paddle 344 to the engaged position by initiating a squeezing movement of the hand, which causes the paddle 344 to pivot about the pivot structure 350 and also causes the switch surface 364 to abut the actuator 398, moving the actuator 398 to the engaged position.It should be noted that the saw assembly 100 is configured for one-handed operation; therefore, the same hand that moves the locking lever 346 to the unlocked position is used to move the blade 344 to the engaged position. The same hand is also used to guide the saw assembly 100 through the workpiece.

[0040] To return the bucket 344 from the on position to the off position, the user releases the compressive force on the bucket 344. This causes the actuator 398 from the switch 394 to pivot the bucket 344 back to the off position. When the bucket 344 is positioned in the off position, the actuator 398 is in the unactuated position and the motor 136 is not operating. When the bucket 344 reaches or nearly reaches the unactuated position, the torsion spring 348 also returns the locking lever 346 to the locked position.

[0041] The power lever 342 is positioned on the housing 104 in an ergonomic location. The power lever 342 is positioned to be easily contacted by the user's fingers on an underside of the shell 108. In addition, the force the user applies to the saw assembly 100 to move the saw through a workpiece assists the user in maintaining the blade 344 in the engaged position.

[0042] As in Fig. 16 and Fig. 17, the saw assembly 100 also includes a locking element or locking structure 402 comprising a slider 404 and a spring 406. The slider 404 includes a push-button portion 408 at a first end of the slider 404 and a catch or hook element 410 at an opposite second end of the slider 404. A flange 412 of the slider 404 is positioned between the push-button 408 and the hook element 410.

[0043] The slider 404 is positioned at least partially within the interior space 128.

[0044] In particular, the slider 404 is positioned within a slider cavity 414. The slider cavity 414 includes a shoulder 416, a shoulder 418, and a button opening 420. The slider 404 extends through the button opening 420 such that the snap portion 408 is positioned outside of the interior space 128, and the hook portion 410 is positioned inside the interior space 128.

[0045] The spring 406 is a tension spring positioned between the flange 412 and the shoulder 418. The spring 406 biases the flange 412 against the shoulder 416.

[0046] The slider 404 is movable between a non-interfering position or disengaged position ( Fig. 16) and a fault position or a locked position ( Fig. 17) movable. As in Fig. 16, the spring 406 biases the slider 404 in the disengaged position. As shown in Fig. 17, the spool 404 is movable to the engaged position by moving the spool 404 toward the bucket 344 against the biasing force of the spring 406. When the spool 404 is in the engaged position, at least a portion of the spool 404 is in the path of movement 362 of the bucket 344. When the spool 404 is in the disengaged position, the spool 404 is spaced from the path of movement 362.

[0047] The locking structure 402 maintains the bucket 344 in the engaged position without user interaction. To lock the bucket 344 in the engaged position, the bucket 344 is first moved to the engaged position along the path of movement 362. Then, with the bucket 344 in the engaged position, the slider 404 is moved to the engaged position. Thereafter, the compressive force on the bucket 344 is released, and the slider 404 maintains the bucket 344 in the engaged position. The bucket 344 is maintained in the engaged position without user contact from the power lever 342 or the push button 408.

[0048] The hook portion 410 of the slider 404 engages the locking recess 366 to maintain the blade 344 in the engaged position. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, when the paddle 344 is in the engaged position and the slider 404 is in the engaged position, the locking indentation 366 is positioned above the hook portion 410. Accordingly, when the force maintaining the paddle 344 in the engaged position is released, the locking indentation 366 is seated in the hook portion 410, thus preventing the paddle 344 from returning to the deactivated position. The spring 406 provides a biasing force that ensures that the hook portion 410 and the locking indentation 366 remain engaged without user interaction.

[0049] To release the blade 344 from the locking structure 402, the switch surface 364 of the blade 344 is moved slightly closer to the switching element 396 (not shown in Fig. 16 and Fig. 17), which moves the locking indentation 366 away from the hook member 410 and disengages the locking indentation 366 from the hook member 410. When the locking indentation 366 and the hook member 410 are disengaged, the spring 406 returns the spool 404 to the disengaged position. Thereafter, the force on the paddle 344 can be released to allow the actuator 398 to return the paddle 344 to the disengaged position. protective structure

[0050] As in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the saw assembly 100 includes a guard assembly 422 in which one of the flat cutting wheel 296 and the flush cutting wheel 300 are partially positioned. The guard assembly 422 is attached to the housing 104 and includes a concave structure 424, a partition wall 426, and a flange 428.

[0051] The concave structure 424 extends from a wall portion 430 of the housing 104 and defines a protective space 432 for receiving at least a portion of one of the cutting wheel 296 and the cutting wheel 300. The partition 426 is attached to the concave structure 424 within the protective space 432. In particular, the partition 426 extends from the concave structure 424 toward the rotation axis 268. The flange 428 protrudes from the partition 426 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis 268. The wall portion 430, the concave structure 424, the partition 426, the flange 428, and the lower right shell 124 are integrally fused together in a monolithic component formed from an injection-molded thermoplastic.

[0052] As in Fig. 18, the shape of the partition 426 is determined in relation to a contact plane of the workpiece 434 and a mandrel plane 436. The contact plane of the workpiece 434 is defined by a contact surface of the workpiece 466 ( Fig. 19) from a stand 456 ( Fig. 19) of the saw assembly 100. As described in detail below, the contact surface of the workpiece 466 is positioned against and moved transversely through a workpiece during cutting operations by the saw assembly 100. The contact surface of the workpiece 466 lies in the contact plane of the workpiece 434. The rotational axis 268 is parallel to the contact plane of the workpiece 434.

[0053] The mandrel plane 436 is parallel to the contact plane of the workpiece 434 and intersects the rotational axis 268. The mandrel plane 436 also intersects a leading portion 438 and a trailing portion 440 of the partition 426. The leading portion 438 is located forward of the rotational axis 268 relative to the forward direction 126 of movement of the saw assembly 100. The mandrel plane 436 intersects the leading portion 438 by an amount referred to as the leading cut line distance. The trailing portion 440 of the partition 426 is located rearward of the rotational axis 268 relative to the forward direction 126 of movement of the saw assembly 100. The mandrel plane 436 intersects the trailing portion 440 by an amount referred to as the trailing cut line distance. The distance of the leading cutting line is less than the distance of the following cutting line.

[0054] As in Fig. 19, the partition wall 426 divides the protective space 432 into a cutter space 442 and another cutter space 444. The cutter space 442 is positioned on a side of the partition wall 426 closest to the wall portion 430, such that the cutter space 442 is disposed between the wall portion 430 and the partition wall 426. The cutter space 444 is positioned on an opposite side of the partition wall 426 and is defined by the flange 428.

[0055] With reference to Fig. 5, the flange 428, also referred to herein as a shield, defines a side shield surface 446 and a bottom shield surface 448. The side shield surface 446 is positioned opposite a workpiece or cutting guide during cutting operations utilizing the flush cutting wheel 300. The side shield surface 446 is angled approximately ninety degrees (90°) relative to the bottom shield surface 448. A beveled edge portion 450 of the side shield surface 446 / concave structure 424 is chamfered relative to the bottom shield surface 448.

[0056] The guard assembly 422 protects at least two types of cutting wheels, including the flat cutting wheel 296 and the flush cutting wheel 300, without requiring any user configuration of the guard when switching between the cutting wheels. As shown in Fig. 5, the flat cutting wheel 296 is connected to the mandrel assembly 148 and is at least partially positioned within the cutting wheel space 442 ( Fig. 18). When the electric motor 136 is supplied with electrical energy, the drive shaft 260 rotates the cutting wheel 296 about the rotation axis 268, so that the cutting structure 308 is advanced through the cutting wheel space 442.

[0057] As in Fig. 20, the shape of the divider wall 426 allows a user of the saw assembly 100 to view a leading edge 452 of the cutting wheel 296 positioned within the cutting wheel space 442 as it moves through a workpiece W. For example, a cut line 454 may be recorded on the workpiece W, representative of a desired cutting path. The shape of the divider wall 426 allows the user to view the intersection point between the leading edge 452 and the cut line 454 during the cutting operation. This simplifies the act of guiding the saw assembly 100 along a desired cut line 454.

[0058] As in Fig. 6, the flush cutting wheel 300 is connected to the mandrel assembly 148 and is at least partially positioned within the cutting wheel space 444 ( Fig. 18). When the electric motor 136 is supplied with electrical energy, the drive shaft 260 rotates the cutting wheel 300 about the rotation axis 268, so that the cutting structure 324 is advanced through the cutting wheel space 444. Swiveling stand

[0059] As in Fig. 21 and Fig. 22, the saw assembly 100 includes a base 456 pivotally connected to the housing 104 and biased by a spring 457. The base 456 includes a base 458, a hinge structure 460, and an enlargement structure 462 that are integrally fused together in a monolithic component formed from an injection-molded thermoplastic.

[0060] As in Fig. 21, the base 458 defines an upper surface 464, a contact surface of the workpiece 466, and a passage for the cutting wheel 468. The contact surface of the workpiece 466 is positioned relative to a workpiece W or a guide 780 ( Fig. 39) during cutting operations. The lower part 458 has numerous grooves 470 ( Fig. 19) to reduce the surface area of the contact surface of the workpiece 466 so that the contact surface of the workpiece 466 slides easily on most workpieces.

[0061] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 23, the passage for the cutting wheel 468 is formed in the base 458 and is defined on three sides by the base 458. The passage 468 has a generally rectangular shape. The passage 468 is positioned on the side of the base 458 proximate the mandrel assembly 148 such that a portion of the cutting wheel 296, 300 extends therethrough. The passage for the cutting wheel 468 may also be referred to herein as a base opening.

[0062] The hinge structure 460 includes a ridge 472 extending from the base 458 and a conduit structure or generally cylindrical member 474 extending from the ridge 472. The ridge 472 extends from the top surface 464. The cylindrical member 474 defines a central channel 476 extending entirely through the cylindrical member 474 and defined by an opening 478 and an opening 480. The cylindrical member 474 also defines a longitudinal axis 482 parallel to the rotation axis. A left portion 484 of the cylindrical member 474 is positioned to the left of the ridge 472, and a right portion 486 of the cylindrical member 474 is positioned to the right of the ridge 472.

[0063] The cylindrical member 474 of the hinge structure 460 is received by the housing 104 to enable the stand 456 to pivot relative to the housing 104 or, in other words, to enable the housing 104 to pivot relative to the stand 456. In particular, as shown in Fig. 21, the lower left shell 120 defines a hinge hole 488 or hinge receptacle, and is in Fig. 22, the lower right shell 124 defines a hinge bore 490 or hinge receptacle. The hinge receptacles 488, 490 have an inner diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the cylindrical member 474 to enable the hinge receptacle 488 to receive the left portion 484 and to enable the hinge receptacle 490 to receive the right portion 486. The base 456 is pivotable about the hinge structure 460 relative to the housing 104 about a pivot axis 492, which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis 482. The base 456 is in Fig. 21 and Fig. 22 pivoted to a position of maximum cutting depth (also referred to as the non-rest position) and is shown in Fig. 23 pivoted to a position of minimum cutting depth (also referred to as the rest position).

[0064] As in Fig. 23, the enlargement structure 462 has a lower end portion 494 and an upper end portion 496 and defines an opening 498. The lower end portion 494 is attached to the upper surface 464. The enlargement structure 462 extends from the base 458 along a generally arcuate path into the interior space 128 such that the upper end portion 496 is positioned within the interior space 128. The opening 498 is a generally arcuate opening that extends from near the lower end portion 494 to near the upper end portion 496. The opening 498 cooperates with a locking arrangement for the base 576 to secure the position of the stand 456 relative to the housing 104.

[0065] As in Fig. 24, the upper end portion 496 defines a contact surface of the spring arm 500 for contacting the spring 457 and includes a protrusion 502 and a projection 504. The projection 502 extends from the upper end portion 496 such that a portion of the protrusion 502 is positioned above the contact surface of the spring arm 500. Similarly, the protrusion 504 extends for approximately the same distance from the upper end portion 496 such that a portion of the protrusion 504 is positioned above the contact surface of the spring arm 500. The protrusion 502 is spaced from the protrusion 504 to thereby define a gap 506 therebetween that is slightly wider than an arm 510 of the spring 457.

[0066] Again with reference to Fig. 21, the spring 457 is a torsion spring having a coiled portion 508, an arm 510 connected to the coiled portion 508, and another arm 512 connected to the coiled portion 508. The coiled portion 508 is a generally circular coil comprising approximately three (3) turns of wire used to form the spring 457. The coil 508 defines a central axis 514, and the spring 457 creates a resistive force when the arm 510 is pivoted about the central axis 514 relative to the arm 512 (and vice versa).

[0067] The spring 457 is disposed within the interior space 128. Specifically, the coil 508 is supported by a support 516 extending from the left lower shell 120. The support 516 defines a generally circular periphery having a diameter slightly smaller than a diameter of the coil 508, such that the support 516 extends through the coil 508.

[0068] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 24, the arm 510 is positioned on the contact surface of the spring 500 between the projection 502 and the second projection 504. The projections 502, 504 prevent the arm 510 from sliding off the contact surface of the spring 500 in the directions parallel to the axis 514. A width 518 of the arm 510 is smaller than the gap 506. Accordingly, the projections 502, 504 allow the arm 510 to move relative to the contact surface of the spring 500 in the direction 520 and in the direction 522 in response to the movement of the base 456. The spring 457 has a curvature 526 so that the arm 510 is in the correct position to be positioned on the contact surface of the spring 500.

[0069] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 23, the arm 512 is positioned by the spring 457 against a stop strip 524 of the left lower shell 120. The arm 512 remains in a generally fixed position in response to pivoting of the base 456.

[0070] The arm 510 of the spring 457 slides on the contact surface of the spring 500 during the pivoting of the base 456 relative to the housing 104, which can alternatively be described as the pivoting of the housing 104 relative to the base 456. The spring 457 biases the base 456 toward the minimum cutting depth position ( Fig. 23). In this position, one end 526 of the arm 510 is positioned adjacent to the projection 502. Once the base 456 is moved to the position of maximum cutting depth ( Fig. 21), the spring arm 510 slides on the contact surface of the spring 500 so that the end portion 527 is separated from the projection 502 by the distance 525. The arm 510 slides on the contact surface of the spring 500 as a result of the axis 514 being offset from the axis 482. In addition, pivoting the base 456 from the minimum cutting depth position ( Fig. 23) to the position of the maximum cutting depth ( Fig. 21) at least a portion of the cutting wheel 296, 300 to be propelled through the passage for the cutting wheel 468. Suction device

[0071] As in Fig. 25 and Fig. 26, the saw assembly 100 includes a dust extraction device assembly 528, which includes a dust inlet or inlet opening 530, a dust channel or central channel 476, a dust outlet or outlet opening 534, a coupling component or connecting structure 536, and a hose adapter 538. The inlet opening 530 is a generally circular opening formed in the lower right shell 124. The inlet opening 530 is formed in the wall region 430 and is in fluid communication with the joint receptacle 490 ( Fig. 22). The inlet opening 530 defines a center point and has a diameter of approximately eight millimeters (8 mm). The center point of the inlet opening 530 is aligned with the pivot axis 492 of the base 456. As shown in Fig. 20, during a cutting operation, the inlet opening 530 is positioned near the intersection point between the leading edge 452 of the cutting wheel 296, 300 and the cutting line 454. The inlet opening 530 is aligned with the opening 478 and faces the protective space 432 defined by the flange 428.

[0072] With reference to Fig. 25, the dust channel 476 is provided as the central channel 476 in the cylindrical member 474 of the hinge structure 460. The dust channel 476, which may also be referred to as a conduit section, is a bore extending from the opening 478 on a first side of the cylindrical member 474 to the opening 480 on an opposite end of the cylindrical member 474. The dust channel 476 is a generally cylindrical channel defining the longitudinal axis 482, which is coaxial with the pivot axis 492 of the base 456.

[0073] As in Fig. 27, the outlet opening 534 is an opening formed in the lower left shell 120. The outlet opening 534 is in fluid communication with the pivot socket 488. The outlet opening 534 is also in fluid communication with the opening 480, the dust channel 476, the opening 478, and the inlet opening 530. The outlet opening 534 is a generally circular opening defining a center point aligned with the pivot axis 492 of the base 456.

[0074] The connecting structure 536 is formed in the lower left shell 120 and defines a receptacle or circular bore 540 concentric with the outlet opening 534. The connecting structure 536 also includes numerous friction ribs 542 and a wall 544. The friction ribs 542 extend radially inward from the circular bore 540 for approximately one millimeter (1 mm). The friction ribs 542 are generally evenly spaced circumferentially from the circular bore 540. The wall 544 terminates the circular bore 540.

[0075] As in Fig. 28, the hose adapter 538 includes a coupling component or inlet structure 546, a funnel portion 548, and an outlet structure 550. The adapter 538 is formed of injection-molded thermoplastic. The inlet structure 546 is a generally cylindrical structure defining a central opening 552 and an adapter portion 554. The outer diameter of the inlet structure 546 is approximately equal to the inner diameter of the circular bore 540, such that the inlet structure 546 is configured to mate with the coupling structure 536 to secure the adapter 538 to the housing 104. When the inlet structure 546 mates with the connecting structure 536, the adapter portion 554 is in fluid communication with the outlet opening 534. The outlet structure 550 is also a generally cylindrical structure defining a central opening 556 and an outlet portion 558.

[0076] The funnel region 548 fluidly connects the adapter portion 554 of the inlet structure 546 to the outlet portion 558 of the outlet structure 550. To this end, the funnel region 548 defines a dust channel (not shown) that is closest to the inlet structure 546 and farthest from the outlet structure 550. The funnel region 548 defines a bend 562 such that the inlet structure 546 is offset from the outlet structure 550.

[0077] As in Fig. 26, the dust extractor assembly 528 is used with a vacuum hose / tube 564, a vacuum source 566, and a waste container 568 to draw the dust generated by the cutting wheel 296, 300 into the waste container 568. To use the dust extractor assembly 528, first, the adapter 538 is connected to the saw assembly 100 by inserting the inlet structure 546 into the bore 540 until the inlet structure 546 contacts the bottom wall 544. The exterior of the inlet structure 546 contacts the friction ribs 542 when inserted into the connecting structure 536, forming a frictional connection between the connecting structure 536 and the inlet structure 546. Due to the frictional connection, the hose adapter 538 remains in a fixed position relative to the connecting structure 536 without user intervention.Nonetheless, the adapter 538 is easily rotated about the pivot axis 492 to a desired position. Next, the vacuum tube 564 is connected to the outlet structure 550 of the hose adapter 538. The vacuum tube 564 includes a fitting 570 that frictionally fits into the outlet structure 558. To connect the vacuum tube 564 to the adapter 538, the fitting 570 is inserted within the outlet structure 558.

[0078] Next, the vacuum source 566 is turned on, and a workpiece W is cut with the cutting wheel 296, 300. As the cutting wheel 296, 300 moves through the workpiece W, dust and debris are generated at a point near the inlet opening 530. Accordingly, when the vacuum source 566 is activated, dust and debris are drawn into the inlet opening 530, through the dust channel 476, through the adapter section 554, through the dust channel 560, through the outlet section 558, through a hose section 572 from the vacuum hose 564, and into the waste container 568. Locking arrangement for the lower part

[0079] As in Fig. 22 and Fig. 29, the saw assembly 100 includes a locking assembly for the base 576, which includes a clamping member 578 ( Fig. 29) and a clamp actuator 580 ( Fig. 22). With reference to Fig. 29, the clamping component 578 includes a clamping surface 582 and a bore structure 584 (shown hidden). The clamping surface 582 is a portion of the gear housing 196 that surrounds the bore structure 584. The clamping surface 582 is generally flat and defines a plane perpendicular to the contact plane of the workpiece 434. The clamping surface 582 is positioned within the interior space 128.

[0080] The bore structure 584 is formed in the gear housing 196. The bore structure 584 defines a longitudinal axis 586 that is parallel to the rotational axis 268. The bore structure 584 has a plurality of internal threads 588 (shown hidden). The internal threads 588 are left-hand threads.

[0081] The clamping actuator 580 has a clamping component 590 ( Fig. 29) and a handle 592 ( Fig. 22). With reference to Fig. 30, the clamping member 590 includes a post 594, a drive structure 596, and a clamping surface 598. The clamping member 590 is formed from metal. However, in other embodiments, the clamping member 590 is formed from an injection-molded thermoplastic or other hard material.

[0082] The column 594 is generally cylindrical and includes a threaded portion 600 and a smooth portion 602. The column 594 is approximately seventeen millimeters (17 mm) long. The threaded portion 600 includes a set of external threads 604 and has a length of approximately ten millimeters (10 mm). The external threads 604 are "left-hand" threads designed to mesh with the internal threads 588 of the bore structure 584. The smooth portion 602 is positioned between the threaded portion 600 and the drive structure 596. The smooth portion 602 is generally cylindrical and has a length of approximately six millimeters (6 mm) and a diameter of approximately six millimeters (6 mm).

[0083] The drive structure 596 is positioned at one end of the clamping member 590 opposite the threaded portion 600. The drive structure 596 has an outer polygonal-shaped surface having six sides and is driveable by an eight-millimeter (8mm) wrench. The drive structure 596 has a width that is wider than the width of the column 594 and a length of approximately nine millimeters (9mm). The drive structure 596 defines an internally threaded bore 604 centered about a longitudinal axis 586 of the clamping member 590. The internally threaded bore 604 has a set of right-hand internal threads 606.

[0084] The clamping surface 598 is positioned at the junction of the drive structure 596 and the column 594 and is defined by an end face of the drive structure 596. The clamping surface 598 defines a plane that is parallel to the plane defined by the clamping surface 582.

[0085] As in Fig. 31, the handle 592 includes a hub 608, a lever 610, and a strip 612, each of which is integrally formed from an injection-molded thermoplastic. The hub 608 includes a drive structure 614 and an opening 616. The drive structure 614 is sized and shaped to mate with the drive structure 596. In particular, the drive structure 614 includes an inner polygonal-shaped surface that mates with the outer polygonal-shaped surface of the drive structure 596.

[0086] The opening 616 extends through the hub 608 and is centered about the longitudinal axis 586 of the clamping member 590. A connecting element 618 ( Fig. 27) extends through the opening 616 and into the internally threaded bore 604 to connect the handle 592 to the clamping member 590. When the drive structure 614 mates with the drive structure 596, rotation of the handle 592 results in rotation of the clamping member 590.

[0087] The lever 610 extends from a first side of the hub 608. The lever 610 defines a push surface 620 and a push surface 622. The push surfaces 620, 622 are contacted when rotation of the lever 610 is desired.

[0088] The strip 612 extends from a side of the hub 608 opposite the lever 610. The strip 612, which may also be referred to herein as a limiter, has a contact surface 624 on one side of the strip 612 and a contact surface 626 on an opposite side of the strip 612.

[0089] As in Fig. 32, when the clamping structure 590 is threadably received by the bore structure 584, the enlargement structure 462 extends between the clamping surface 582 and the clamping surface 598. The enlargement structure 462 remains positioned between the clamping surface 582 and the clamping surface 598 during pivoting of the base 456 relative to the housing 104.

[0090] The clamp actuator 580 is rotatable between a first actuator position (an unsecured position) and a second actuator position (a secured position). When the clamp actuator 580 is in the unsecured position, the clamping surface 582 is spaced from the clamping surface 598 by an open path. The open path is greater than a width 628 of the enlargement structure 462 so that the enlargement structure 462 can advance between the clamping surface 582 and the clamping surface 598 when the clamp actuator 580 is in the unsecured position. In the unsecured position, the base 458 is pivotable about the pivot axis 492 relative to the housing 104.

[0091] When the clamp actuator 580 is rotated counterclockwise to the secured position, the clamping surface 598 advances toward the clamping surface 582. Specifically, in the secured position, the clamping surface 598 is separated from the clamping surface 582 by a closed distance. The closed distance is less than the open distance and is approximately equal to the width 628 of the enlargement arm 462. The closed distance positions the clamping surface 598 and the clamping surface 582 such that the enlargement structure 462 is secured between the clamping surface 598 and the clamping surface 582, preventing pivoting of the base 458 relative to the housing 104.

[0092] As in Fig. 27, the housing 104 includes a limiter 630 positioned to cooperate with the tab 612 of the bottom locking assembly 576. In particular, the housing 104 includes a limiter 630 extending from an outer surface of the lower left shell 120. The limiter 630 includes an arcuate structure 632 affixed to the outer surface. The arcuate structure 632 includes a contact surface 634 at one end and a contact surface 636 at the opposite end. If the arcuate structure 632 were extended to form a circle, then a center point of the circle would be aligned with the longitudinal axis 586 of the clamping member 590.

[0093] The limiter 630 cooperates with the strip 612 to prevent the clamp actuator 580 from being rotated further beyond the secured position and from being rotated beyond the unsecured position. In particular, rotation of the clamp actuator 580 in the clockwise direction (from Fig. 27) by a physical interaction (i.e., contact) between the contact surface 624 of the strip 612 and the contact surface 634 of the limiter 630. Likewise, rotation of the clamp actuator 580 in the counterclockwise direction (from Fig. 27) by a physical interaction (i.e., contact) between the contact surface 626 of the strip 612 and the contact surface 636 of the limiter 630.

[0094] The limiter 630 and the strip 612 prevent the clamp actuator 580 from being overtightened and undertightened. In particular, the interaction between the contact surface 624 and the contact surface 634 prevents the clamp actuator 580 from being rotated to a position where the clamp member 590 is separated from the arcuate structure 584. In this way, the clamp actuator 580 will not be lost or separated from the saw assembly 100. In addition, the interaction between the contact surface 626 and the contact surface 636 ensures that when these two surfaces 626, 636 meet, the clamp actuator 580 applies a uniform clamping force to the enlargement structure 462. The uniform clamping force is one determined to securely fix the pivotal position of the base 458 over the lifetime of the saw assembly 100.Accordingly, the limiter 630 and the strip 612 prevent the clamp actuator 580 from being rotated to a twisting position that applies a damaging clamping force to the enlargement structure 462. The damaging clamping force deforms the enlargement structure 462 so that it does not effectively pivot about the pivot axis 492. Depth gauge

[0095] As in Fig. 27, the saw assembly 100 includes a depth gauge assembly 640, which includes an indicator projection 642, an indicator opening 644, a first depth gauge portion 646, and a second depth gauge portion 648. With reference to the base 456, as shown in Fig. 32, the indicator projection 642 includes an arm 650 and a marker 652. The arm 650 extends from the upper end portion 496 of the magnification structure 462. The marker 652 extends from the arm 650 in a direction parallel to the pivot axis 492.

[0096] Again with reference to Fig. 27, the opening 644 is formed in the lower left shell 120 of the housing 104. The opening 644 has a generally arcuate shape of approximately the same radius as the opening 498 in the enlargement structure 462. The marker 652 is positioned to extend through the opening 644. The position of the marker 652 within the opening 644 depends on the position of the stand 456 relative to the housing 104. In particular, when the stand 456 is in the position of the minimum cutting depth ( Fig. 33), then the marker 652 is positioned at the bottom of the opening 644, and when the stand 456 is in the position of the maximum cutting depth ( Fig. 27), then the marker 652 is positioned at the top of the opening 644.

[0097] The depth gauge portion 646 is positioned on a first side of the opening 644 and has indicia indicating 1 / 8 inch, 1 / 4 inch, 1 / 2 inch, and 3 / 4 inch cutting depths. The depth gauge portion 648 is positioned on the second side of the opening 644 and has indicia indicating 0 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, and 20 mm cutting depths. Both the depth gauge portion 646 and the depth gauge portion 648 are integrally formed in the lower left shell 120.

[0098] The depth gauge assembly 640 is used to indicate the distance the cutting wheel 296, 300 extends below the contact surface of the workpiece 466. For example, the base 456 can be moved relative to the housing 104 until the marker 652 is aligned with a desired cutting depth, as shown at the depth gauge portion 646 or the depth gauge portion 648. When the desired cutting depth is reached, the base 456 is locked in position relative to the housing 104 with the base locking assembly 576. Drawing rail accessories

[0099] As in Fig. 34 to 36, a scribe bar 660 may be used with the saw assembly 100. The scribe bar 660 includes a guide member 662 connected to a positioning rod 664 having a connector 666. The guide member 662 includes a body 668, a guide structure 670, and numerous support ribs 672. The body 668 is a generally flat member from which the guide structure 670 extends. The support ribs 672 are positioned to contact the body 668 and the guide structure 670, thereby increasing the rigidity of the guide member 662. The body 668, the guide structure 670, and the support ribs 672 are integrally fused together in a monolithic member formed from an injection-molded thermoplastic.

[0100] As in Fig. 35, the guide structure 670 defines a generally planar guide surface 674. The guide surface 674 is positioned relative to a workpiece W (see Fig. 36) when the scriber 660 is in use. The guide surface 674 is generally rectangular and has a length of approximately fifteen centimeters (15 cm) and a height of approximately two centimeters (2 cm). The guide surface 674 is free of protrusions or other irregularities that could interfere with or prevent the sliding of the guide member 662 against the workpiece W.

[0101] The body 668 further defines a rod hole 676 and a rod hole 678. The rod hole 676 defines an opening 680 in the guide structure 670 and an opening 682 in the body 668. The second rod hole 678 defines an opening 684 in the guide structure 670 and a plug opening (not shown) substantially identical to the opening 682.

[0102] The positioning rod 664 is a generally straight rod having a generally rectangular cross-section. The positioning rod 664 has a length of approximately 25 centimeters (25 cm), a width of approximately 1 centimeter (1 cm), and a thickness of approximately 0.3 centimeters (0.3 cm). The positioning rod 664 defines a threaded bore 686. Another threaded bore is positioned at an opposite end of the positioning rod 664 but is not visible because it is shown having received a portion of the plug 666. The positioning rod 664 is dimensioned to extend through the opening 680 and the opening 684. The positioning rod 664 is formed of metal.

[0103] As in Fig. 35, the positioning rod 664 is received by the lower part 458. For this purpose, the lower part 458 defines a rod channel 688 ( Fig. 3) and has a connecting structure 690. The rod channel 688 has a length parallel to the rotation axis 268.

[0104] The connecting structure 690 includes a connecting element 692 and a clamping element provided as a square nut 694. The connecting element 692 is threaded into and received by the square nut 694. The connecting structure 690 is positioned inside a clamping pocket 696 formed in the lower part 458. The clamping pocket 696 is fluidly connected to the rod channel 688, so that the connecting element 692 can be positioned at least partially within the rod channel 688.

[0105] The plug 666 includes a connector 698 extending from a handle 700. The connector 698 is configured to be threadably received by the opening 686 in the positioning rod 664. The handle 700 is fixedly connected to the connector 698.

[0106] As in Fig. 35, the scribe bar 660 is assembled and connected to the base 458 by inserting an end portion of the positioning rod 664 into the rod hole 678. The rod hole 678 is positioned such that when the positioning rod 664 is received therein, the positioning rod 664 extends from the guide structure 670 in a direction perpendicular to the guide surface 674. Next, the connector 666 is used to connect the positioning rod 664 to the guide member 662. Thereafter, the positioning rod 664 is inserted into the rod channel 688 until the guide surface 674 is at a predetermined distance from the cutting wheel 296. Finally, the connecting member 692 is advanced into the rod channel 688 to lock the position of the positioning rod 664.

[0107] As in Fig. 36, with the scriber bar 660 connected to the saw assembly 100, a user can make rip cuts in a workpiece W along a desired cutting path 702. Specifically, to use the scriber bar 660, the guide surface 674 is positioned opposite an edge E of the workpiece W. Then, the saw assembly 100 is turned on and moved along the cutting path 702 to advance the cutting wheel 296 through the workpiece W. By maintaining the guide surface 674 opposite the edge E, the cutting wheel 296 is advanced through the workpiece W a predetermined distance from the edge E. Fastening structures

[0108] As in Fig. 29 and Fig. 37, the gear housing 196 has a mounting bore 750 and a mounting bore 752. The mounting bore 750 defines a longitudinal axis 754 that is parallel to the rotational axis 268. The mounting bore 750 has a plurality of internal threads. As shown in Fig. 33, the lower left shell 120 defines a circular opening 756 having a center point positioned in alignment with the longitudinal axis 754.

[0109] As in Fig. 37, the mounting hole 752 is also formed in the gear housing 196. The mounting hole 752 has a plurality of internal threads. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 19, the base 458 defines an opening 758 that is positioned in alignment with the mounting hole 752 when the base 456 is in the maximum cutting depth position. When the base 456 is moved to positions other than the maximum cutting depth position, the opening 758 is not positioned in alignment with the mounting hole 752. Both the mounting hole 750 and the mounting hole 752 have the same internal thread count / structure.

[0110] The mounting hole 750 and the mounting hole 752 are used to connect accessories (not shown) to the saw assembly 100 or to connect the saw assembly 100 to an accessory. For example, a handle (not shown) having a shank with a threaded tip can be threadably received from the mounting hole 750 by inserting the shank through the opening 756 and into the mounting hole 750.

[0111] As in Fig. 38, for example, the mounting hole 752 can be used to connect the saw assembly 100 to a table saw assembly 760. The table saw assembly 760 includes a table 762 defining a countersunk hole 764 and a cutting wheel opening (not shown). The saw assembly 100 is connected to the table 762 by first positioning the stand 456 in the maximum cutting depth position. Thereafter, a fastener 766 is inserted through the countersunk hole 764 into the table 762, through the opening 758 into the base 458, and into the threaded hole 752. With the saw assembly 100 connected to the table 762, the cutting wheel 296 (not shown in Fig. 38) through the cutting wheel opening and is positioned above a workpiece support surface 768 of the table 762. The saw assembly 100 and table saw assembly 760 are used for cutting workpieces W in a manner similar to those table saws known to those skilled in the art. Guide accessories for miter saws

[0112] As in Fig. 39 and Fig. 40, a cutting guide 780 is provided for use with the saw assembly 100. The cutting guide 780 includes a guide structure 782 and a guide structure 784. The cutting guide 780 is formed from injection-molded thermoplastic. The guide structure 782 is provided as a bevel cutting guide. The guide structure 784 is provided as a miter cutting guide.

[0113] The guide structure 782 includes a saw support 786 and a saw support 788, both attached to a base 790. The saw support 786 provides a saw contact surface 792, a step structure 794, and a step structure 796. The saw contact surface 792 is a generally flat surface positioned in a plane.

[0114] The step structure 794 is offset from the contact surface of the saw 792 and is positioned at a first end of the saw support 786. The step structure 796 is also offset from the contact surface of the saw 792 and is positioned at an opposite end of the saw support 786. The contact surface of the saw 792 extends between the step structure 794 and the step structure 796. The step structure 794 and the step structure 796 each define a contact surface 798, 800 positioned perpendicular to the plane defined by the contact surface of the saw 792.

[0115] The saw rest 788 defines another contact surface of the saw 802. The contact surface of the saw 802 is a generally flat surface positioned in a plane. The plane defined by the contact surface of the saw 792 intersects the plane defined by the contact surface of the saw 802 to define a cutting angle having a magnitude of ninety degrees (90°). In other embodiments, the cutting angle has a magnitude of greater than eighty degrees (80°) and less than one hundred degrees (100°).

[0116] The contact surface of saw 802 is separated from the contact surface of saw 792 to thereby define a window or extended kerf 804 therebetween. kerf 804 is oriented along a kerf axis 806 and includes a first kerf region 808, a second kerf region 810, and a third kerf region 812. Second kerf region 810 is adjacent to first kerf region 808 and third kerf region 812. Second kerf region 810 is disposed between first kerf region 808 and third kerf region 812.

[0117] As in Fig. 41, the lower portion 790 of the guide structure 782 defines a first cavity 814 positioned below the cutting gap 804. The first cavity 814 includes a first workpiece space 816, a first cutting element initial space 818 positioned on a first side of the first workpiece space 816, and a first cutting element final space 820 positioned on an opposite second side of the first workpiece space 816. The first workpiece space 816 is positioned below the second gap region 810 and receives a workpiece W to be cut by the saw assembly 100 during a cutting operation. The first cutting element initial space 818 is positioned below the first gap region 808 and is located where the cutting wheel 300 is positioned at the beginning of the cutting operation.The first end space for a cutting element 820 is positioned below the third gap area 812 and is located where the cutting wheel 300 is positioned at the end of the cutting operation.

[0118] The lower portion 790 of the guide structure 782 includes a first side wall 822, a second side wall 824, and an end wall 826 and an end wall 828. The first side wall 822 and the second side wall 824 are positioned generally parallel to each other. The end wall 826 extends between the first side wall 822 and the second side wall 824 at one end portion of the guide structure 782. The end wall 828 is positioned at an opposite end portion of the guide structure 782 and extends between the first side wall 822 and the second side wall 824.

[0119] As in Fig.41, the lower portion 790 of the guide structure 782 defines the first workpiece space 816. Specifically, the workpiece space 816 is defined by a first workpiece portion 830 and a second workpiece portion 832. The first workpiece portion 830 is formed in the first sidewall 822 and is defined by a first lateral portion surface 834 spaced from a second lateral portion surface 836. The second workpiece portion 832 is formed in the second sidewall 824 and is defined by a third lateral portion surface 838 spaced from a fourth lateral portion surface 840. The first workpiece portion 830 is spaced from the second workpiece portion 832 to define the first workpiece space 816 therebetween.

[0120] The guide structure 782 further includes a guide wall 844 for assisting in positioning the cutting guide 780 on a workpiece W. The guide wall 844 is positioned within the cavity 814 and defines a first portion of the guide surface 846. The portion of the guide surface 846 is positioned below the cutting gap 804. The portion of the guide surface 846 and the first lateral section surface 834 are positioned in a plane containing both surfaces. The gap axis 806 is perpendicular to the plane in which the first lateral section surface 834 and the portion of the guide surface 846 are positioned.

[0121] As in Fig. 40, the saw rest 786 defines a cutout 848 in the contact surface of the saw 792. The cutout 848 is adjacent to the kerf 804. The portion of the guide surface 846 is positioned below the cutout 848 so that visibility of the portion of the guide surface 846 is enhanced.

[0122] As in Fig. 39, the base 790 includes a reference indicia marking 842 positioned on the first sidewall 822 adjacent the first lateral section surface 834. The reference indicia marking 842 indicates a pivot point for use with the guide structure 784, as described below.

[0123] As in Fig. 41, the saw rest 786 also defines a first contact surface of the workpiece 850 and a second contact surface of the workpiece 852. The first contact surface of the workpiece 850 is a bottom portion of the saw rest 786 and is generally parallel to the kerf 804. The second contact surface of the workpiece 852 is a bottom portion of the saw rest 786 and is generally parallel to the kerf 804. The contact surface of the workpiece 850 and the contact surface of the workpiece 852 are positioned in the cavity 814. It should be noted that the kerf 804 may be defined by the first contact surface of the workpiece 850, which is spaced apart from the second contact surface of the workpiece 852.

[0124] The guide structure 784 extends from the guide structure 782 and includes a first guide wall 854, a second guide wall 856, and numerous support ribs 858 extending between the first guide wall 854 and the second guide wall 856. The first guide wall 854 extends from the base 790 and defines a first guide surface 860. The first guide wall 854 includes a leg 862 attached to the base 790. The leg 862 supports the guide structure 784 during use of the cutting guide 780.

[0125] The second guide wall 856 extends from the base 790 and defines a second guide surface 864. The second guide wall 856 extends perpendicularly from the second side wall 856 of the base 790. The second guide wall 856 intersects the first guide wall 854 to define a corner 866.

[0126] The second guide wall 856 has a leg 868 and a leg 870. The leg 868 extends downwardly from the second guide wall 856 and, more specifically, extends downwardly from the corner 866. The leg 870 extends downwardly from the second guide wall 856. The leg 868 and the leg 870 are spaced apart to define a third workpiece portion 872. The leg 868 and the leg 862 are spaced apart to define a fourth workpiece portion 874.

[0127] The first guide wall 854 and the second guide wall 856 form an angle having a size between thirty degrees (30°) and sixty degrees (60°). The angle between the first guide wall 854 and the second guide wall 856 is forty-five degrees (45°). The angle between the first guide wall 854 and the second guide wall 856 is used for making miter cuts in the workpiece W at the angle. The guide structure 784 has numerous reference indicia 876 and sizes formed on the first guide wall 854, the second guide wall 856, and the ribs 858. The second indicia 876 are used to position the guide structure 784 when making cuts that are different from the angle between the first guide wall 856 and the second guide wall 856.

[0128] The guide structure 784 further includes a clamping structure 878 extending from the second guide wall 856. The clamping structure 878 includes a flat clamping surface 880 and numerous support ribs 882. The clamping structure 878 receives a clamping force that connects the cutting guide 780 to a workpiece W. The flat clamping surface 880 typically contacts a clamping element, and the support ribs 882 increase the structural strength of the cutting guide 780 so that it is not deformed or otherwise damaged as a result of the clamping force.

[0129] As in Fig. 41, the guide structure 784 includes a second workpiece space 884 that receives a workpiece W. The second workpiece space 884 is defined by the third workpiece portion 872 and the fourth workpiece portion 874. The second workpiece space 884 is aligned with the first workpiece space 816 such that a workpiece W extending through the first workpiece portion 830 extends through the first workpiece space 816 and the second workpiece space 884.

[0130] As in Fig. 42 and Fig. 43, in operation, the cutting guide 780 is used to make bevel cuts and miter cuts on a workpiece W, with the saw assembly 100 equipped with the flush cutting wheel 300. The guide structure 782 is employed to make a bevel cut. First, the workpiece W is positioned in the workpiece space 816. The workpiece W is positioned against the first lateral section surface 834, the guide wall 844, the leg 868, the first contact surface of the workpiece 850, and the second contact surface of the workpiece 852. This arrangement positions the kerf 804 perpendicular to the edge E of the workpiece W.

[0131] Next, the user 'precisely' adjusts the position of the cutting guide 780 on the workpiece W. To do this, the user looks through the cutout 848 and locates the first portion of the guide surface 846. The portion of the guide surface 846 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the desired cutting path through the workpiece W. Accordingly, the position of the cutting guide 780 is adjusted until the portion of the guide surface 846 corresponds to the predetermined distance from the desired cutting path. Thereafter, a clamp (not shown) is attached to the clamping structure 878 and the workpiece W to prevent further movement of the cutting guide 780 relative to the workpiece W.

[0132] The user next positions the saw assembly 100 on the cutting guide 780, with the contact surface of the workpiece 466 positioned by the base 456 against the first contact surface of the saw 792 and the flange 428 positioned against the second contact surface of the saw 802. The first guide structure 782 supports the saw assembly 100 on two sides to ensure that the saw assembly 100 is maintained at the correct bevel angle for the duration of the cut.

[0133] As in Fig. 43, the flush cutting wheel 300 extends through the kerf 804 into the initial space of a cutting element 818 from the cavity 814. The initial space 818 from the cavity 814 provides the user with an area in which the saw assembly 100 can be turned on to bring the cutting wheel 300 to full speed without the cutting wheel 300 being in contact with the workpiece W. After the saw assembly 100 is turned on, the saw assembly 100 is moved toward the end wall 828 through the workpiece W to cut the workpiece W at a bevel angle of forty-five degrees (45°).

[0134] The saw assembly 100 is moved toward the end wall 828 with the contact surface of the workpiece 466 positioned against the first contact surface of the saw 792 until the leading side wall 886 of the base 456 contacts the step structure 794, which is positioned to stop further forward movement of the saw assembly 100. At this point, the cutting operation is complete, and the user may release the blade 344 to turn off the electric motor 136. It should be noted that the step structure 796 stops movement of the saw assembly 100 in a rearward direction by contacting a trailing side wall 888 of the base 458.

[0135] The guide structure 784 is used for making miter cuts with the saw assembly 100. To prepare the saw assembly 100 for making miter cuts, the user typically connects the flat cutting wheel 296 to the mandrel assembly 148; although the flush cutting wheel 300 is also usable. Next, the cutting guide 780 is positioned on the workpiece W. Specifically, the workpiece W is positioned against the guide wall 844 and the leg 868 in the first workpiece compartment 816 and the second workpiece compartment 884. Thereafter, the flange 428 is positioned against the first guide surface 860. Finally, the rotating cutting wheel 296 is moved through the workpiece W while maintaining the flange 428 against the first guide surface 860.

[0136] In the above configuration, the first guide surface 860 is positioned to make a forty-five degree (45°) miter cut through the workpiece W. The cutting guide 780 is pivotable about the first lateral section surface 834 to a desired cutting angle, as indicated by the character 876. Cutting guide for ceiling moldings

[0137] As in Fig. 44 to 47, a cutting guide 900 is provided for use with the saw assembly 100. The cutting guide 900 includes a first guide structure 902 connected to a second guide structure 904 by a central portion 906. The cutting guide 900 is formed from an injection-molded thermoplastic.

[0138] As in Fig. 44, the first guide structure 902 includes a first saw support 908 and a second saw support 910, both of which are attached to a base 912. The first saw support 908 defines a first contact surface of the saw 914, a first step structure 916, and a second step structure 918. The first contact surface of the saw 914 is a generally flat surface positioned in a plane.

[0139] The first step structure 916 is offset from the first contact surface of the saw 914 and is positioned at a first end of the first saw support 908. The second step structure 918 is also offset from the first contact surface of the saw 914 and is positioned at an opposite second end of the first saw support 908. The first step structure 916 and the second step structure 918 each define a contact surface 920, 922 positioned perpendicular to the plane defined by the first contact surface of the saw 914.

[0140] The second saw support 910 defines a second contact surface of the saw 924. The second contact surface of the saw 924 is a generally flat surface positioned in a plane. The plane defined by the first contact surface of the saw 914 intersects the plane defined by the second contact surface of the saw 924 to define a cutting angle θ1 having a magnitude of ninety degrees (90°). In other embodiments, the cutting angle θ1 has a magnitude greater than eighty degrees (80°) and less than one hundred degrees (100°).

[0141] As in Fig. 45, the second contact surface of saw 924 is spaced from the first contact surface of saw 914 to define a first elongated kerf 926 therebetween. Kerf 926 is oriented along a kerf axis 928 and includes a first kerf region 930, a second kerf region 932, and a third kerf region 934. Second kerf region 932 is adjacent to first kerf region 930 and third kerf region 934. Second kerf region 932 is intermediate between first kerf region 930 and third kerf region 934.

[0142] With reference to Fig. 46, the lower portion 912 of the first guide structure 902 defines a first cavity 936 positioned below the cutting gap 926. The first cavity 936 includes a first workpiece space 938, a first cutting element initial space 940 positioned on a first side of the first workpiece space 938, and a first cutting element final space 942 positioned on an opposite second side of the first workpiece space 938. The first workpiece space 938 is positioned below the second gap region 932 and receives a workpiece W to be cut by the saw assembly 100 during a cutting operation. The first cutting element initial space 940 is positioned below the first gap region 930 and is located where the cutting wheel 300 is positioned at the beginning of the cutting operation.The first end space for a cutting element 942 is positioned below the third gap region 934 and is located where the cutting wheel 300 is positioned at the end of the cutting operation.

[0143] As in Fig. 47, the base 912 of the first guide structure 902 includes a first side wall 944, a second side wall 946, an end wall 948, and a common end wall 950. The first side wall 944 and the second side wall 946 are positioned generally parallel to each other. The first end wall 948 extends between the first side wall 944 and the second side wall 946. The common end wall 950 is positioned at a leading end region of the first guide structure 902 and extends between the first side wall 944 and the second side wall 946 and also the side walls of the guide structure 904.

[0144] As in Fig. 46, the lower portion 912 of the first guide structure 902 defines the first workpiece space 938. The workpiece space 938 is defined by a first workpiece portion 952 and a second workpiece portion 954. The first workpiece portion 952 is formed in the first sidewall 944 and is defined by a first portion surface 956 spaced from a second portion surface 958. The second workpiece portion 954 is formed in the second sidewall 946 and is defined by a third portion surface 960 spaced from a fourth spacer surface 962. The first workpiece portion 952 is spaced from the second workpiece portion 954 to define the first workpiece space 938 therebetween.

[0145] As in Fig. 47, the first guide structure 902 includes a first guide wall 964 and a second guide wall 966 to assist in positioning the cutting guide 900 on a workpiece W. The first guide wall 964 is positioned within the cavity 936 and defines a first portion of the guide surface 968. The second guide wall 966 is positioned within the cavity 936 and defines a second portion of the guide surface 970. The first portion of the guide surface 968 and the second portion of the guide surface 970 are positioned below the cutting gap 926.

[0146] As in Fig. 45, the first saw rest 908 defines a first cutout 972 and a second cutout 974 in the first contact surface of the saw 914. The first cutout 972 and the second cutout 974 are each adjacent to the kerf 926. The portion of the guide surface 968 is positioned below the first cutout 974 so as to enhance visibility of the first portion of the guide surface 968. The portion of the guide surface 970 is positioned below the second cutout 972 so as to enhance visibility of the second portion of the guide surface 970.

[0147] The first guide structure 902 also defines a first contact surface of the workpiece 976 and a second contact surface of the workpiece 978. The first contact surface of the workpiece 976 is a bottom portion of the saw rest 910 that is generally parallel to the kerf 926. The second contact surface of the workpiece 978 is a bottom portion of the saw rest 908 that is generally parallel to the kerf 926. The contact surface of the workpiece 976 and the contact surface of the workpiece 978 are positioned in the cavity 936.

[0148] The guide structure 904 is substantially identical to the guide structure 902. However, for completeness, the guide structure 904 will be described in detail. The guide structure 904 includes a saw support 980 and a saw support 982, both of which are attached to a base 984. The first saw support 980 defines a first contact surface of the saw 986, a first step structure 988, and a second step structure 990.

[0149] The second saw support 982 of the guide structure 904 defines a second contact surface of the saw 992. The plane defined by the first contact surface of the saw 986 intersects the plane defined by the second contact surface of the saw 992 to define a cutting angle θ2 having a magnitude of ninety degrees (90°). In other embodiments, the cutting angle θ2 has a magnitude greater than eighty degrees (80°) and less than one hundred degrees (100°).

[0150] The second contact surface of the saw 992 is spaced from the first contact surface of the saw 986 to define a kerf 994 therebetween. The kerf 994 is oriented along a kerf axis 995 and includes a first kerf region 996, a second kerf region 998, and a third kerf region 1000. The kerf axis 995 and the kerf axis 998 intersect at an acute angle θ ( Fig. 44). The acute angle θ has a size that is greater than forty-five degrees (45°) and less than seventy-five degrees (75°).

[0151] As in Fig. 46 and Fig. 47, the lower portion 984 of the guide structure 904 defines a cavity 1002 positioned below the cutting gap 994. The cavity 1002 includes a workpiece space 1004, a cutting element initial space 1006 positioned on a first side of the first workpiece space 1004, and a first cutting element final space 1008 positioned on an opposite second side of the first workpiece space 1004. The first workpiece space 1004 is positioned below the second gap region 998 and receives a workpiece W to be cut by the saw assembly 100 during a cutting operation. The first cutting element initial space 1006 is positioned below the first gap region 996 and is located where the cutting wheel 300 is positioned at the beginning of the cutting operation.The first end space for a cutting element 1008 is positioned below a third gap space 1000 and is located where the cutting wheel 300 is positioned at the end of the cutting operation.

[0152] The lower portion 984 of the guide structure 904 includes a first side wall 1010, a second side wall 1012, and an end wall 1014, and the common side wall / end wall 950. The first side wall 1010 and the second side wall 1012 are positioned generally parallel to each other. The first end wall 1014 extends between the first side wall 1010 and the second side wall 1012. The common end wall 950 is positioned at a leading end region of the first guide structure 902 and extends between the first side wall 1010, the second side wall 1012, and also the side walls 944, 946 of the other guide structure 902.

[0153] As in Fig. 46, the lower portion 984 of the guide structure 904 defines the workpiece space 1004. The workpiece space 1004 is defined by a first workpiece portion 1018 and a second workpiece portion 1020. The first workpiece portion 1018 is formed in the first sidewall 1010 and is defined by a first portion surface 1022 spaced from a second portion surface 1024. The second workpiece portion 1020 is formed in the second sidewall 1012 and is defined by a third portion surface 1026 spaced from a fourth portion surface 1028. The first workpiece portion 1018 is spaced from the second workpiece portion 1020 to define the workpiece space 1004 therebetween.

[0154] The guide structure 904 includes the guide wall 964 and the guide wall 966 to assist the cutting guide 900 in positioning on a workpiece W. The first guide wall 964 is positioned in the cavity 1002 and defines a first portion of the guide surface 1034. The first portion of the guide surface 1034 is positioned below the cutting gap 994. The section surface 956, the section surface 1022, the portion of the guide surface 968, and the portion of the guide surface 1034 lie in a plane 1038. The second guide wall 966 is positioned in the cavity 1002 and defines a second portion of the guide surface 1036. The second portion of the guide surface 1036 is positioned below the cutting gap 994.The section surface 958, the section surface 1024, the guide surface region 970 and the guide surface region 1036 all lie in a second plane 1040 which is parallel to the plane 1038.

[0155] The saw rest 980 defines a cutout 1042 and a cutout 1044 in the first contact surface of the saw 986. The cutout 1042 and the cutout 1044 are each adjacent to the kerf 994. The portion of the guide surface 1036 is positioned below the cutout 1024 so that the visibility of the portion of the guide surface 1036 is enhanced. The portion of the guide surface 1034 is positioned below the cutout 1044 so that the visibility of the portion of the guide surface 1034 is enhanced.

[0156] The guide structure 904 also defines a first contact surface of the workpiece 1046 and a second contact surface of the workpiece 1048. The first contact surface of the workpiece 1046 is a bottom portion of the saw rest 980 that is generally parallel to the kerf 994. The second contact surface of the workpiece 1048 is a bottom portion of the saw rest 982 that is generally parallel to the kerf 994. The contact surface of the workpiece 1046 and the contact surface of the workpiece 1048 are positioned in the cavity 1002.

[0157] The middle part 906 is positioned between the first guide structure 902 and the second guide structure 904. The middle part 906 is connected to the side wall 946 and the side wall 1012 and determines the position of the guide structure 902 relative to the guide structure 904. A space between the guide 1050 is defined below the middle part 906. Since the guide structure 902 is separated from the guide structure 904, there is a space therebetween and is referred to as the space between the guide 1050.

[0158] The middle part 906 includes a first abutment structure 1052 and a second abutment structure 1054. The first abutment structure 1052 is disposed in the cavity 1002, the space between the guide 1050 and the filler 936. Accordingly, the abutment structure 1052 is positioned below both the kerf 926 and the kerf 994. The abutment structure 1052 defines an abutment surface 1056 against which a workpiece W is positioned during cutting operations. The abutment structure 1052 includes the portion of the guide wall 970 and the portion of the guide wall 1036. The section surface 958, the section surface 1024, and the abutment surface 1056 lie in the plane 1040.

[0159] The abutment structure 1054 is disposed in the cavity 936, the space between the guide 1050 and the cavity 1002. Accordingly, the abutment structure 1054 is positioned below both the kerf 926 and the kerf 994. The abutment structure 1054 defines an abutment surface 1058 against which a workpiece W is positioned during cutting operations. The abutment structure 1054 includes the portion of the guide wall 968 and the portion of the guide wall 1034. The section surface 956, the section surface 1022, and the abutment surface 1058 lie in the plane 1038.

[0160] The middle portion 906 further includes a clamping structure 1060, which includes a flat clamping surface 1062 and numerous support ribs 1064. The clamping structure 1060 receives a clamping force that connects the cutting guide 900 to the workpiece W. The support ribs 1064 increase the structural strength of the cutting guide 900 so that it is not deformed or otherwise damaged as a result of the clamping force.

[0161] In operation, the cutting guide 900 is used to guide the cutting wheel 300 of the saw assembly 100 through a workpiece W. Specifically, the cutting guide 900 is used to make a compound miter cut in a workpiece W. A compound miter cut is a cut that is beveled and mitered. These types of cuts are often made when cutting crown moldings that are to be joined at an inside or outside corner of a room.

[0162] To make a cut with the cutting guide 900, the workpiece W is positioned in one or more of the workpiece space 938 and the workpiece space 1004. An edge of the workpiece is positioned against one or more of the abutment surface 1056 and the abutment surface 1058. The cutting guide 900 is moved along the workpiece W until the desired cut line is aligned with one of the portions of the guide surface 968, 970, 1034, 1036 visible through the cutouts 972, 974, 1042, 1044. Depending on the desired cut orientation, a surface of the workpiece W can be positioned toward or away from the contact surface of the workpiece 976, 978, 1046, 1048. The saw assembly 100 should be equipped with the flush cutting wheel 300 when also used with the cutting guide 900.After the cutting guide 900 has been aligned, a cutting operation is performed in the same manner as was performed with the bevel guide structure 782 described above. Features of the stand related to the miter saw guide and cutting guide for ceiling moldings

[0163] The stand 456 of the saw assembly 100 is suitable for operation with the miter cutting guide 780 and the crown molding cutting guide 900. As in Fig. 48 and Fig. 49, the base 458 of the stand 456 includes a main portion 1110, a first cantilevered portion 1112, and a second cantilevered portion 1114. The main portion 1110 includes an upper surface of the base 1116, a lower surface of the base 1118, and a lateral sidewall surface 1120. The lower surface of the base 1118 is positioned against the contact surface of the saw 792 during cutting operations employing the cutting guide 780. The lateral sidewall surface 1120 extends between the lower surface of the base 1118 and the upper surface of the base 1116.

[0164] The first cantilevered portion 1112 extends laterally from the main portion 1110 and terminates to define a guide surface 1122 from the lateral sidewall surface 1120. The guide surface 1122 is beveled with respect to the lower surface of the base portion 1118. The second cantilevered portion 1114 also extends laterally from the main portion 1110 and terminates to define a trailing surface 1124 from the lateral sidewall surface 1120. The trailing surface 1124 is also beveled with respect to the lower surface of the base portion 1118. The first cantilevered portion 1112 and the second cantilevered portion 1114 are spaced apart from each other to define the opening for the cutting element or passage for the cutting wheel 468.

[0165] As in Fig. 49, when the base 458 is viewed in cross-section, the guide surface 1122 and the bottom surface of the base 1118 define an angle 1126 of approximately one hundred thirty-five degrees (135°). Similarly, when the base 458 is viewed in cross-section, the trailing surface 1124 and the bottom surface of the base 1118 define an angle 1128 of approximately one hundred thirty-five degrees (135°). In another embodiment of the base 456, the angle defined by the guide surface 1122 and the bottom surface of the base 1118 and the angle defined by the trailing surface 1124 and the bottom surface of the base 1118 can be greater than one hundred twenty degrees (120°) and less than one hundred fifty degrees (150°).

[0166] As in Fig. 50, the above-described structure of the base 456 prevents any portion of the base 456 from extending below the kerf 804 during cutting operations utilizing the cutting guide 780 and the cutting guide 900. If the base 456 were to extend below the kerf 804 and into the cavity 814, the base 456 would strike the workpiece W as the user attempted to slide the saw assembly 100 toward the workpiece W, thus preventing cutting of the workpiece W. Accordingly, the base 456 allows the flush cutting wheel 300 to extend through the kerf 804 while preventing the base 458 from extending through the kerf (i.e., the base is spaced from the kerf) when the lower surface of the base 1118 is in contact with the contact surface of the saw 792 ( Fig. 39) and the flange 428 is in contact with the contact surface of the saw 802 ( Fig. 39) is positioned.

[0167] In addition, as described above with respect to the guard assembly 422, the beveled surface 450 of the guard 422 ensures that the guard 422 is spaced from the kerf 804 and ensures that no portion of the guard assembly 422 extends through the kerf where it could abut the workpiece and interfere with a cutting operation. Accessories for deburring

[0168] As in Fig. 50 to 52, the saw assembly 100 includes a fastener assembly or deburring accessory 1150. The deburring accessory 1150 includes a fastener structure or support structure 1152 and an abrasive element or abrading element 1154. As shown in Fig. 53, the support structure 1152 includes a column or shaft 1156, a platform or shoulder 1158, and a drive portion or head 1160. The support structure 1152 is formed from metal. In other embodiments of the deburring accessory 1150, the support structure 1152 is formed from plastic.

[0169] The shaft 1156 has a threaded portion 1162 and an unthreaded portion 1164. The threaded portion 1162 has a set of external threads configured to be threadably received by the mandrel assembly 148 through the opening 1166 in the drive shaft 260 for connecting the deburring accessory 1150 to the saw assembly 100. The unthreaded portion 1164 extends from the threaded portion 1162.

[0170] The shoulder 1158 extends from the unthreaded portion 1164 and from the head 1160. The shoulder 1158 includes a lower clamping surface or seat 1166 positioned against the cutting wheel 296, an upper seating surface or seat 1168 supporting the abrasive element 1154, and a washer recess 1170. The shoulder 1158 defines a generally circular circumference and has a diameter of approximately twenty-one millimeters (21 mm). The upper seat 1168 extends from the head 1160 for approximately six millimeters (6.0 mm). The washer recess 1170 is defined in the shoulder 1158 and is disposed adjacent the lower seat 1166. The washer recess 1170 extends around the shank 1156.

[0171] As in Fig. 52, the head 1160 extends from the shoulder 1158 and the unthreaded portion 1164. The head 1160 defines a generally circular periphery and has a diameter of approximately nine millimeters (9.0 mm). The head 1160 defines a tool opening or recess 1172 having a pilot surface. The recess 1172 is polygonal-shaped and is adapted to receive a fastening tool, such as an Allen wrench (not shown).

[0172] The abrasive element 1154 is connected to the head 1160 and the shoulder 1158. The abrasive element 1154 includes a grinding stone 1174 defining an inner surface 1176 and a central passage 1178, a lower surface 1180, and an outer side surface having a tapered outer surface portion 1182. The abrasive element 1154 is attached to the support structure 1152 such that the head 1160 is located within the central passage 1178. Specifically, the inner surface 1176 is attached to an outer side surface of the guide portion, and the lower surface 1180 is attached to the upper seat 1168.

[0173] As in Fig. 50, the tapered outer surface 1182 is a generally conical deburring surface. At the bottom of the deburring surface (nearest the shoulder 1158), the abrasive element has a width of approximately twenty-one millimeters (21 mm). At the top of the deburring surface (positioned farthest from the shoulder 1158), the abrasive element 1154 has a width of approximately thirteen millimeters (13.0 mm).

[0174] The grinding stone 1174 of the abrasive element 1154 is formed of aluminum oxide. In particular, the abrasive element may be formed of the aluminum oxide provided in the Dremel 952 aluminum oxide grinding stone manufactured by the Robert Bosch Tool Corporation. In an alternative embodiment of the deburring accessory 1150, the abrasive element 1154 is formed of silicon carbide, such as the silicon carbide provided in the Dremel 84922 silicon carbide grinding stone manufactured by the Robert Bosch Tool Corporation. In another alternative embodiment of the deburring accessory 1150, the abrasive element 1154 is formed of industrial diamond, any aluminum-based abrasive material, cubic boron nitride ("CBN"), and the like.

[0175] The deburring accessory 1150 is used to attach the cutting wheel 296 to the saw assembly 100 in place of the mandrel screw 284 ( Fig. 1) and the washer 292 ( Fig. 1). The threaded portion 1162 is screwed into the opening 1166 in the drive shaft 260. When the deburring accessory 1150 is tightened onto the drive shaft 260, the cutting wheel 296 is clamped between the lower surface 1180 and the spacer 288 ( Fig. 1) tensioned for rotation with the drive shaft 260.

[0176] After attaching the deburring accessory 1150 and the cutting wheel 296 to the drive shaft 260, the saw assembly 100 is used to perform a cutting operation on a pipe or other tubular structure. As a result of the cutting operation, a cut burr 1184 ( Fig. 53) is formed on the cutting edge of the pipe.

[0177] After performing the cutting operation, the deburring accessory 1150 is used to remove the cut burr 1184 without requiring any modification or configuration of the saw assembly 100. The abrasive element 1154 of the deburring accessory 1150 is used to smooth the cut edge of the pipe, hose, or tube cut by the cutting wheel 296. Specifically, the abrasive element 1154 is used to remove the cut burr 1184 or burr formed at the cut end of the pipe after the pipe has been cut with the cutting wheel 296. To use the abrasive element 1154, the rotating conical deburring surface 1182 is urged against the cut burr 1184 or burr to remove the cut burr 1184 or burr.

[0178] As in Fig. 53, the conical shape of the abrasive element 1154 evenly removes the cut burr or burr from the inner edge of the pipe P1, P2. The conical deburring surface 1182 is positionable against the inner edge of a pipe having an inner diameter greater than the top diameter of the deburring surface 1182 and less than the bottom diameter of the deburring surface 1182. The pipe P1 has an inner diameter of approximately one-half inch (0.5 in), and the pipe P2 has an inner diameter of approximately three-quarters of an inch (0.75 in). The abrasive element 1154 evenly removes the cut burr 1184 or burr because the conical deburring surface 1182 contacts most or all of the inner edge of the pipe at the same time.

[0179] In addition to being usable with the saw assembly 100, the deburring accessory 1150 is also usable with other saw assemblies, grinders, and power cutting tools. For example, the deburring accessory 1150 is usable with a circular saw and grinders typically used for cutting metal pipe / conduit. In addition, the deburring accessory 1150 is usable with, for example, portable band saws typically used for cutting metal pipe / conduit.

[0180] In another embodiment of the deburring accessory 1150, the head 1160 and the shaft 1156 are connected together and separated from the shoulder 1158 and the abrasive element 1154. In this embodiment, the head 1160 and the shaft 1156 are provided as a separate bolt (not shown) which is similar to the mandrel screw 284 ( Fig. 1). The shoulder 1158 defines an opening having a diameter greater than a diameter of the shank 1156 but less than the diameter / width of the head 1160 such that the head 1160 is positioned against the shoulder 1158 when the deburring accessory 1150 is connected to the saw assembly 100.

[0181] While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, it should also be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in nature. It is to be understood that only the preferred embodiments have been presented, and that all changes, modifications, and other applications that come within the spirit of the disclosure are intended to be protected.

Claims

[1] Saw assembly (100), with: a drive element (144) adapted to be moved in a repeating pattern; a motor (136) configured to move the drive member (144) in the repeating pattern; a housing (104) defining an interior space (128) in which the motor (136) is positioned; and a base (456) having (i) a base (458) with an upper surface (464) and a lower contact surface (466) of the workpiece, and (ii) a conductive structure (474) attached to the upper surface (464) of the base (456), wherein the housing (104) is pivotally mounted on the line structure (474), wherein the conduit structure (474) defines a first conduit opening (478), a second conduit opening (480) and a conduit section (476) extending therebetween, and wherein the housing (104) defines (i) a dust inlet (530) positioned in fluid communication with the first conduit opening (478), and (ii) a dust outlet (534) positioned in fluid communication with the second conduit opening (480). [2] The saw assembly of claim 1, further comprising (i) a concave guard (424) secured to the housing (104), and (ii) a saw element (296, 300) coupled to the drive element (144), wherein: the concave protective device (424) defines a protective space (432), the sawing element (296, 300) is at least partially positioned in the protective space (432), and the dust inlet (530) is located next to the protective chamber (432). [3] The saw assembly of claim 1, further comprising a hose adapter (538) defining an adapter portion (554) and having a first coupling component (546), wherein: the housing (104) further comprises a second coupling component (536) configured to mate with the first coupling component (546) to secure the hose adapter (538) to the housing (104), and when the second coupling component (536) mates with the first coupling component (546), the adapter portion (554) is positioned in fluid communication with the dust outlet (534). [4] The saw assembly of claim 3, further comprising a vacuum hose (564) defining a hose portion (572), wherein: the vacuum hose (564) is adapted to be attached to the hose adapter (538), and when the vacuum hose (564) is attached to the hose adapter (538), the hose section (572) is positioned in fluid communication with the adapter section (554). [5] Saw assembly according to claim 3, wherein: the first coupling component (546) has a cylindrical end portion of the hose adapter (538), the second coupling component (536) has a receiving structure (540, 542) which is positioned in fluidic operative connection with the dust outlet (534), and the receiving structure (540, 542) is adapted to receive the cylindrical end portion in a frictionally engaged manner. [6] Saw assembly according to claim 1, wherein: the conduit structure (474) defines a cylindrical portion having a central axis (482), and the housing (104) pivots about the central axis (482) in relation to the base (456). [7] The saw assembly of claim 1, further comprising a spring (457) positioned in the interior space (128), wherein: the base (456) further comprises an enlargement structure (462) attached to the upper surface (464) of the base (458), the enlargement structure (462) defines a contact surface of the spring arm (500), and the spring (457) has a spring arm (510) which is positioned in contact with the contact surface of the spring arm (500). [8] Saw arrangement (100), with: a drive element (144) adapted to be moved in a repeating pattern; a motor (136) configured to move the drive member (144) in the repeating pattern; a housing (104) defining an interior space (128) in which the motor (136) is positioned; and a base (456) having (i) a base (458) with an upper surface (464) and a lower contact surface (466) of the workpiece, and (ii) a conductive structure (474) attached to the upper surface (464) of the base (456), wherein the housing (104) is pivotally mounted on the conduit structure (474), wherein: the housing (104) defines a dust inlet (530) and a dust outlet (534), the housing (104) has (i) a first receiving structure (490) positioned in fluid communication with the dust inlet (530), and (ii) a second receiving structure (488) positioned in fluid communication with the dust outlet (534), the conduit has (i) a first end portion of the conduit (486) defining a first conduit opening (478), and (ii) a second end portion of the conduit (484) defining a second conduit opening (480), the first end portion of the conduit (486) is received in the first receiving structure (490) so that the dust inlet (530) is positioned in fluid communication with the first conduit opening (478), and the second end portion of the conduit (484) is received in the second receiving structure (488) so that the dust outlet (534) is positioned in fluidic communication with the second conduit opening (480). [9] The saw assembly of claim 8, wherein the conduit structure (474) further defines a conduit portion (476) extending between the first conduit opening (478) and the second conduit opening (480). [10] The saw assembly of claim 8, further comprising (i) a concave guard (424) secured to the housing (104), and (ii) a saw element (296, 300) coupled to the drive element (144), wherein: the concave protective device (424) defines a protective space (432), the sawing element (296, 300) is at least partially positioned in the protective space (432), and the dust inlet (530) is located next to the protective chamber (432). [11] The saw assembly of claim 8, further comprising a hose adapter (538) defining an adapter portion (554) and having a first coupling component (546), wherein: the housing (104) further comprises a second coupling component (536) configured to mate with the first coupling component (546) to secure the hose adapter (538) to the housing (104), and when the second coupling component (536) mates with the first coupling component (546), the adapter portion (554) is positioned in fluid communication with the dust outlet (534). [12] The saw assembly of claim 11, further comprising a vacuum hose (564) defining a hose portion (572), wherein: the vacuum hose (564) is adapted to be attached to the hose adapter (538), and when the vacuum hose (564) is attached to the hose adapter (538), the hose section (572) is positioned in fluid communication with the adapter section (554). [13] Saw assembly according to claim 11, wherein: the first coupling component (546) has a cylindrical end portion of the hose adapter (538), the second coupling component (536) has a third receiving structure which is positioned in fluidic operative connection with the dust outlet (534), and the third receiving structure is adapted to receive the cylindrical end portion in a frictionally engaged manner. [14] Saw assembly according to claim 8, wherein: the conduit structure (474) defines a cylindrical portion (476) having a central axis (482), and the housing (104) pivots about the central axis (482) in relation to the base (456). [15] The saw assembly of claim 8, further comprising a spring (457) positioned in the interior space (128), wherein: the base (456) further comprises an enlargement structure (462) attached to the upper surface (464) of the base (458), the enlargement structure (462) defines a contact surface of the spring arm (500), and the spring (457) has a spring arm (510) which is positioned in contact with the contact surface of the spring arm (500). [16] Saw assembly according to claim 8, wherein: the first receiving structure (490) pivots relative to the first end portion of the conduit (484) during pivoting of the housing (104) relative to the conduit structure (474), and the second receiving structure (488) pivots relative to the second end portion of the conduit (486) during pivoting of the housing (104) relative to the conduit structure (474).

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