Circular saw apparatus with integrated multistage filtration system

Abstract

To provide a dry-operated power saw which prevents dust from escaping into the environment.SOLUTION: There are disclosed, various dust collection apparatuses. In a first example, the dust collection apparatus includes: a vacuum source configured to provide a negative pressure; and a multistage filter configured to collect airborne dust drawn by the negative pressure. For this example, the dust collection apparatus includes a dust tray having a shared dust containment area in which the shared dust containment area is a single compartment configured to receive the airborne dust collected by the multistage filter directly from each of a plurality of stages of the multistage filter. In another example, a dust collection apparatus includes a filter, a filter housing configured to house the filter, and an inlet coupled to the filter housing. For this example, the inlet is configured to receive a flow of airborne dust drawn by a negative pressure, and is further configured to mitigate an impact of the airborne dust on the filter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 31

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 212,372, filed August 31, 2015, entitled "Circular sawing apparatus with integrated multi-stage filtration system," which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 16 / 273,058, filed February 11, 2019, entitled "Circular sawing apparatus with integrated multi-stage filtration system," which is a divisional of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 15 / 253,865, filed August 31, 2016, entitled "Circular sawing apparatus with integrated multi-stage filtration system," which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 212,372, filed August 31, 2015, entitled "Circular sawing apparatus with integrated multi-stage filtration system," the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002]

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to dust collection, and more specifically, to facilitating dust collection within a circular saw apparatus via a multi-stage filtration system. [Background technology]

[0003]

[0003] When using conventional power saws, airborne dust and particulate matter emissions resulting from cutting the workpiece are a problem. Health hazards associated with breathing in such dust are particularly problematic. One solution to mitigate dust is the development of wet cutting devices in which water is applied to the cutting edge of the blade, where dust is directed along with the fluid into a holding area. Most wet cutting methods work relatively well, but create additional problems of wastewater pollution and environmental issues. For example, conventional masonry and tile saws typically have a tub or pan with a pump that supplies water to the cutting head. While the saw is cutting, water is sprayed to distribute the water around the cutting area of ​​the saw. Thus, the power saw cannot be placed close to where the actual masonry and tile installation is taking place, as this water can drip, splash, and spill. Thus, users spend a significant amount of time traveling back and forth between the power saw and the installation area.

[0004]

[0004] Therefore, a dry-operating electric saw that prevents dust from leaking into the surroundings is desirable. To this end, it should be noted that the above-mentioned deficiencies are merely intended to provide an overview of some of the problems of conventional systems and are not intended to be exhaustive. Other problems with the state of the art and some of the corresponding advantages of various non-limiting embodiments may become more apparent upon review of the following detailed description. Summary of the Invention

[0005]

[0005] A simplified summary is provided herein to help enable a basic or overall understanding of various aspects of the exemplary non-limiting embodiments in the more detailed description that follows and the accompanying drawings. However, this summary is not intended as an extensive or exhaustive overview. Instead, the sole purpose of this summary is to present some concepts related to some exemplary non-limiting embodiments in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description of the various embodiments that follow.

[0006]

[0006] In accordance with one or more embodiments and corresponding disclosures, various non-limiting aspects are described in connection with a dust collection system. In one such aspect, an apparatus for enhancing dust collection is disclosed. Within such an embodiment, the apparatus includes a vacuum source, a circular saw blade, and a work table with a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade, where the central slot includes an air passage proximate to an expected contact point between the circular saw blade and a workpiece. And the vacuum source is configured to provide a concentrated negative pressure below the work table via the air passage.

[0007]

[0007] In a further aspect, another apparatus for facilitating dust collection is disclosed. In this embodiment, the apparatus includes a housing including a vacuum source and a multi-stage filter. The apparatus further includes a circular saw blade and a work table including a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade. Here, the vacuum source is configured to provide negative pressure under the work table at the central slot, and the multi-stage filter is configured to collect airborne dust drawn by the negative pressure from an area proximate to the central slot.

[0008] In yet another aspect, an apparatus for enhancing dust collection is disclosed, the apparatus including a vacuum source, a circular saw blade, and a work table. In this embodiment, the work table includes a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade, the vacuum source is configured to provide a first negative pressure beneath the work table at the central slot, and the vacuum source is further configured to provide a second negative pressure via an auxiliary port.

[0009]

[0009] In another aspect, a dust collection device is disclosed that includes a vacuum source configured to provide a negative pressure and a multi-stage filter configured to collect airborne dust drawn by the negative pressure. In this embodiment, the dust collection device includes a dust tray having a shared dust containment area, the shared dust containment area being a single compartment configured to receive airborne dust collected by the multi-stage filter directly from each of a plurality of stages of the multi-stage filter.

[0010]

[0010] In a further aspect, a dust collection device is disclosed that includes a filter, a filter housing configured to receive the filter, and an inlet coupled to the filter housing. In this example, the inlet is configured to receive a flow of airborne dust drawn by the negative pressure and is further configured to mitigate impaction of the airborne dust onto the filter.

[0011]

[0011] Other embodiments and various non-limiting examples, scenarios and implementations are described in more detail below.

[0012]

[0012] Various non-limiting embodiments are further described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1]

[0013] A block diagram of an exemplary apparatus that facilitates removing airborne dust via a multi-stage filtration system according to one aspect of the present specification. [Diagram 2]

[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary device having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3]

[0015] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary device having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]

[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system and blade guard vacuum inlet according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5]

[0017] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system and blade guard vacuum inlet according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6]

[0018] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system and blade guard vacuum inlet according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7]

[0019] 1 illustrates an exemplary usage time course of an apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8]

[0019] An exemplary usage time course of an apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one embodiment of the present specification is shown. [Figure 9]

[0019] An exemplary usage time course of an apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one embodiment of the present specification is shown. [Figure 10]

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a first diagram of an exemplary dust path within an apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11]

[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates a second diagram of an exemplary dust path within an apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]

[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary device having an integrated extension, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13]

[0023] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary device having an integrated extension, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14]

[0024] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary chop saw configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 15]

[0025] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary chop saw configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16]

[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary table saw configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17]

[0027] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary table saw configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18]

[0028] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary apparatus for facilitating blade cooling, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 19]

[0029] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an exemplary apparatus for facilitating blade cooling, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 20]

[0030] FIG. 2 is a side view of an exemplary apparatus having louvers to facilitate blade cooling, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 21]

[0031] 1 illustrates various aspects of an exemplary louver insert according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 22]

[0032] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary blade stabilizer according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 23]

[0033] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary dust tray according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 24]

[0034] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary unclosed dust containment bag on a dust tray in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 25]

[0035] FIG. 2 is a side view of an exemplary unclosed dust containment bag on a dust tray in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 26]

[0036] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary closed dust containment bag on a dust tray in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 27]

[0037] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary removable dust tray with an unclosed dust containment bag inserted into the device, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 28]

[0038] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary removable dust tray inserted into an apparatus having a closed dust containment bag in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 29]

[0039] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary removable dust tray removed from an apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 30]

[0040] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary bypass path for blade guard dust, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 31]

[0041] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus that facilitates storing airborne dust collected by a multi-stage filtration system in a shared dust containment area, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 32]

[0042] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of an exemplary multi-stage filtration system coupled to a shared dust containment area, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 33]

[0043] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary multi-stage filtration system having a closed movable barrier, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 34]

[0044] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary multi-stage filtration system having an open movable barrier, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 35]

[0045] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary dust tray having a shared dust compartment, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 36]

[0046] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary device coupled with a removable dust tray having a shared dust compartment during operation, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 37]

[0047] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary device coupled with a removable dust tray having a shared dust compartment after operation, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 38]

[0048] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a first exemplary filter protection design according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 39]

[0049] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a second exemplary filter protection design according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] overview

[0050] Various embodiments disclosed herein are directed to dust collection in a circular sawing apparatus via a multi-stage filtration system. In FIG. 1, a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is provided. As shown, the apparatus 100 includes a housing 110, a work table 120, and a circular saw blade 130, the housing 110 further including a vacuum source 112 and a multi-stage filter 114. As will be discussed in more detail below with reference to the remaining figures, the work table 120 is intended to include a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade 130. And, during use, the vacuum source 112 is configured to provide negative pressure under the work table 120 at the central slot, while the multi-stage filter 114 is configured to collect airborne dust drawn by the negative pressure from an area proximate to the central slot.

[0015]

[0051] Various configurations of the apparatus 100 are contemplated and disclosed herein. For example, in a first contemplated configuration, the work table 120 is configured to slide over the housing 110 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2-10). In this particular embodiment, in addition to providing negative pressure beneath the work table 120 at the central slot, the vacuum source 112 also provides negative pressure to an area within the blade guard of the circular saw blade 130. Here, as shown, the multi-stage filter 114 is configured to collect airborne dust drawn from within the blade guard of the circular saw blade 130 in addition to dust near the central slot of the work table 120.

[0016]

[0052] A chop saw configuration of the apparatus 100 is also contemplated (see, e.g., FIGS. 14-15). In this embodiment, the work table 120 is stationary and the circular saw blade 130 is coupled to a rotatable arm. In use, the rotatable arm is lowered onto a workpiece and debris near the central slot of the work table 120 is again drawn towards the multi-stage filter 114 by the negative pressure provided by the vacuum source 112.

[0017]

[0053] In another aspect of the disclosure, a table saw configuration is also contemplated (see, e.g., FIGS. 16-17). Within such an embodiment, a circular saw blade 130 protrudes from the housing 110 through a central slot in the work table 120. During use, a workpiece is pressed against the circular saw blade 130 and debris near the central slot of the work table 120 is drawn back towards the multi-stage filter 114 by negative pressure provided by the vacuum source 112.

[0018] Exemplary Sliding Table Embodiments

[0054] An exemplary embodiment of the disclosed saw apparatus in which the work table is a sliding table will now be described in more detail. For example, in Figs. 2 and 3, first and second schematic views of such an apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure are provided, respectively. As shown, the saw apparatus 200 comprises a housing 210 coupled to a work table 220 and a circular saw blade 230, the work table 220 being configured to slide above the housing 210 via rails 222. In this embodiment, the work table 220 is bisected by a number of louvers 224 strategically spaced apart from each other within a central slot 226 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 230, as shown. Additionally, the circular saw blade 230 is powered by a saw motor 234 and is rigidly attached to the housing 210 via an arm 236. For safety, a blade guard 232 may be included.

[0019]

[0055] It is contemplated that a multi-stage filter may be included with respect to the housing 210. Here, for example, such a multi-stage filter may include a rotatable filter 217 coupled to a cyclone filter 216. A vacuum source 212 attached to the rotatable filter 217 is then configured to create an airflow through the rotatable filter 217 and the cyclone filter 216. In use, as the work table 220 slides over the housing 210, this airflow provides a negative pressure directly below the central slot 226, and dust near the central slot 226 is drawn through the louvers 224 towards the filter and then collected in the dust container 213.

[0020]

[0056] It should be noted that in one aspect of the present disclosure, if the louvers 224 become blocked, the suction force below the central slot 226 may be reduced. Indeed, if a significant number of the louvers 224 become blocked (e.g., by a large workpiece), such blockage may result in an insufficient amount of suction force to collect the dust. As a result, the dust will undesirably remain above the work table 220 rather than being drawn down the central slot 226.

[0021]

[0057] 4-6 are contemplated, in which the airflow created by the vacuum source 212 is extended further into the area within the blade guard 232. In particular, one end of the conduit 235 is inserted into the vacuum inlet 233 on the blade guard 232, while the other end of the conduit 235 is connected to the vacuum port 218 on the housing 210. In such an embodiment, if there is an insufficient amount of suction under the central slot 226, the dust will then be drawn up from within the blade guard 232 towards the vacuum inlet 233 where it travels through the conduit 235 and subsequently through a filter within the housing 210.

[0022]

[0058] Next, referring to FIGS. 7-9, a time progression showing an exemplary use of the apparatus 200 according to one aspect of the present specification is provided. In particular, FIG. 7 shows a cross-section of the apparatus 200 at t = t0, FIG. 8 shows a cross-section of the apparatus 200 at t = t1, FIG. 9 shows a cross-section of the apparatus 200 at t = t2, where t0 < t1 < t2. As shown, at t = t0, the block 270 is placed on the worktable 220 away from the circular saw blade 230. At t = t1, the worktable 220 is moved towards the circular saw blade 230, and this movement generates dust when the block 270 contacts the circular saw blade 230. Here, since the circular saw blade 230 is rotating in the counterclockwise direction and a vacuum source 212 (not shown) creates a negative pressure under the worktable 220, the trajectory of the dust is substantially downward. As the worktable 220 continues to slide further towards the circular saw blade 230, thus, at that point, the dust is collected through a specific set of louvers 234 above the heavy debris chute 215. For example, as shown, the dust moves through the first set of louvers 234 at t = t1, while the dust moves through the second set of louvers 234 at t = t2.

[0023]

[0059] It should be noted that certain parameters of the apparatus 200 may be changed as needed to provide different performance characteristics and / or to cut different types of workpieces (e.g., different materials, different dimensions, etc.). For example, as shown, each of the heavy debris chute 215 and the louvers 234 is angled to avoid "bouncing back" dust particles through the louvers 234. However, in certain embodiments, the louvers 234 may be coupled to a lever that uniformly adjusts the louvers 234 to have an angle within a specific range (e.g., 30 degrees to 45 degrees). It is contemplated that various other parameters may be adjusted, including, for example, the spacing between each of the louvers 234, the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the circular saw blade 230, and / or the suction force provided by the vacuum source 212.

[0024]

[0060] As previously mentioned, embodiments disclosed herein provide a system in which dust may be collected through any of a number of filters. Here, for example, exemplary paths traversed by dust drawn through louvers 234 are provided in FIGS. 8-11. As shown, heavy debris drawn through louvers 234 falls through heavy debris chute 215 into heavy debris section 240, while lighter dust particles are drawn toward cyclone filter 216. As these lighter dust particles travel up cyclone filter 216, some dust is drawn and falls into cyclone particle section 250, while finer dust particles continue toward rotatable filter 217.

[0025]

[0061] In a particular embodiment, the rotatable filter 217 is a cylindrical filter medium having a plurality of pleat segments around a cylindrical surface as shown. The rotatable filter 217 further comprises a filter cleaning flap 218 secured to a lateral partition wall within the rotatable filter 217, the filter cleaning flap 218 contacting the pleat segments when the filter cleaning knob is rotated. Furthermore, as the rotatable filter 217 rotates, the filter cleaning flap 218 removes dust from the pleat segments, which falls into the fine particle compartment 260.

[0026]

[0062] As shown, dust may also be drawn out through vacuum inlet 233. As previously mentioned, a first end of conduit 235 may be inserted into vacuum inlet 233 while the other end of conduit 235 is connected to vacuum port 218 on housing 210. Now, if there is an insufficient amount of suction force under central slot 226, dust will be pulled up towards vacuum inlet 233 where it then travels through conduit 235 and subsequently through a filter in housing 210.

[0027]

[0063] Another aspect of the disclosure contemplates aspects for minimizing loss of vacuum flow. For example, as illustrated in Figures 12-13, the apparatus 200 may be further configured to include extensions 219 along the air flow path. Within such an embodiment, the extensions 219 are located on each end of the dust collection slot where the extensions 219 can communicate with the louvers 224. As the work table 220 slides toward the circular saw blade 230, those extensions 219 block the preceding set of louvers 224 to minimize loss of vacuum flow under the work table 220.

[0028] Exemplary Chopping Saw Embodiments

[0064] 14-15, a schematic diagram of a chop saw configuration according to aspects disclosed herein is provided. As shown, chop saw apparatus 300 includes a housing 310 coupled to a work table 320 and a circular saw blade 330, the work table 320 being configured as a fixed table above the housing 310. In this embodiment, similar to the work table 220 of apparatus 200, the work table 320 includes a central slot 326 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 330 as shown. Here, however, the circular saw blade 330 is mounted on a rotatable arm 336, and a handle 331 on a blade guard 332 is used to raise and lower the circular saw blade 330 during use.

[0029]

[0065] With respect to the housing 310 of the apparatus 300, it should be understood that the components therein are substantially similar to the corresponding components of the housing 210 of the apparatus 200. For example, the housing 310 also includes a multi-stage filter comprising a rotatable filter 317 coupled to a cyclone filter 316, and a vacuum source 312 attached to the rotatable filter 317 is configured to create an airflow through the rotatable filter 317 and the cyclone filter 316. In use, this airflow provides a negative pressure beneath the central slot 326 such that dust is drawn through the central slot 326 towards the filter and thereafter collected in the dust container 313. In particular, heavy debris drawn through the central slot 326 falls through the heavy debris chute 315 into the dust container 313, while lighter dust particles are drawn towards the cyclone filter 316. As these lighter dust particles travel over the cyclone filter 316 , some of the dust is drawn away and falls into the dust container 313 while the finer dust particles continue towards the rotatable filter 317 .

[0030]

[0066] However, in addition to drawing and dropping the dust through the central slot 326, the device 300 is configured to draw the dust back towards the scoop 323, as shown. Thus, in such an embodiment, the vacuum source 312 provides suction through both the central slot 326 and the scoop 323. To this end, dust drawn through the scoop 323 travels through the vacuum port 318 towards the filter. It should be understood that the scoop 323 may be comprised of a brush or finger-like material. A fence 321 may be included, as shown.

[0031] Exemplary Table Saw Embodiments

[0067] 16 and 17, a schematic diagram of a table saw configuration according to aspects disclosed herein is provided. As shown, a table saw apparatus 400 includes a housing 410 and a circular saw blade 430 coupled to a work table 420, the work table 420 being configured as a fixed table above the housing 410. In this embodiment, similar to the work table 220 of the apparatus 200, the work table 420 includes a central slot 426 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 430, as shown. However, here the circular saw blade 430 protrudes through the central slot 426 of the work table 420. Additionally, the circular saw blade 430 and saw motor 434 are housed within a blade housing 432 below the work table 420, the blade housing 432 being substantially within the housing 410, as shown.

[0032]

[0068] With respect to the remaining components of the housing 410, it should be understood that these components are substantially similar to the corresponding components of the housing 210 of the device 200. For example, the housing 410 also includes a multi-stage filter with a rotatable filter 417 coupled to a cyclone filter 416, and a vacuum source 412 attached to the rotatable filter 417 is configured to create an airflow through the rotatable filter 417 and the cyclone filter 416. In use, this airflow provides a negative pressure beneath the central slot 426, such that dust is collected in the dust container 413 after being drawn through the central slot 426 towards the filter. In particular, heavy debris drawn through the central slot 426 falls through the heavy debris chute 415 into the dust container 413, while lighter dust particles are drawn towards the cyclone filter 416. As these lighter dust particles travel over the cyclone filter 416 , some of the dust is drawn away and falls into the dust container 413 while the finer dust particles continue towards the rotatable filter 417 .

[0033] Exemplary Blade Cooling Aspects

[0069] 18-22, schematic diagrams are provided illustrating various blade cooling aspects disclosed herein. To this end, it should be appreciated that cooling the circular saw blade during "dry cutting" use is particularly desirable to achieve optimal performance and reduce the possibility of damage to the blade. Side and top views of an exemplary apparatus for facilitating blade cooling according to one aspect of the present disclosure are provided in FIGS. 18 and 19, respectively. Here, it should be appreciated that the apparatus 500 is substantially similar to the previously described apparatuses 100, 200, 300, and 400, and that the individual components of the apparatus 500 are also substantially similar to the individual components of the apparatuses 100, 200, 300, and 400. As shown, the apparatus 500 includes a vacuum source 512, a circular saw blade 530, and a work table 520 with a central slot 526 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 530. Here, the central slot 526 includes an air passage 527 proximate to an expected contact point 532 between the circular saw blade 530 and a workpiece 570. Vacuum source 512 , in turn, is configured to provide a concentrated negative pressure 528 beneath worktable 520 via air passage 527 .

[0034]

[0070] It has been discovered that significant cooling of the circular saw blade 530 is achieved by properly aligning the air passages 527 at the anticipated contact points 532 between the circular saw blade 530 and the workpiece 570. That is, because the circular saw blade 530 can become very hot at the anticipated contact points 532 during use, it is particularly desirable to utilize concentrated negative pressure 528 to cool the circular saw blade 530 at the anticipated contact points 532.

[0035]

[0071] In embodiments where a sliding worktable is used, other configurations are contemplated. For example, FIG. 20 provides a side view of an exemplary apparatus having a sliding worktable utilizing louvers to facilitate blade cooling. Here, it should be understood that the apparatus 600 is substantially similar to the previously described apparatus 200, and that the individual components of the apparatus 600 are also substantially similar to the individual components of the apparatus 200. As shown, the apparatus 600 includes a vacuum source 612, a circular saw blade 630, and a worktable 620 with a central slot 626 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 630. Here, the central slot 626 includes an air passage 627 proximate to an expected contact point 632 between the circular saw blade 630 and a workpiece 670. And, the vacuum source 612 is configured to provide a concentrated negative pressure 628 under the worktable 620 via the air passage 627.

[0036]

[0072] However, in this particular embodiment, the work table 620 is configured to slide toward the circular saw blade 630, and the central slot 626 includes a plurality of louvers 624 that individually define air passages 627. Furthermore, the air passages 627 change sequentially depending on which of the plurality of louvers 624 is in proximity to an expected contact point 632 as the work table 620 slides toward the circular saw blade 630.

[0037]

[0073] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, it has been discovered that the magnitude of the concentrated negative pressure 628 is inversely proportional to the opening size of the air passages 627. Thus, by reducing the size of the gap between the individual louvers 624, the magnitude of the concentrated negative pressure 628 increases. It is contemplated that removable louver inserts of various sizes may be used to switch this magnitude. For example, FIG. 21 illustrates various embodiments of an exemplary louver insert according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in example 700, by placing an insert 680 on top of the louvers 624, the gap 625 between the louvers 624 is reduced. That is, as shown, the insert gap width is smaller than the louver gap width.

[0038]

[0074] Examples 710 and 720 further illustrate this reduction in gap size, with example 710 illustrating a worktable 620 without an insert 680 and example 720 illustrating a worktable 620 with an insert 680. As shown, in addition to reducing the size of gap 625, the particular gap corresponding to air duct 627 has also been reduced in size through the use of insert 680. Thus, the concentrated negative pressure 628 at air duct 627 in example 720 is greater than the concentrated negative pressure 628 at air duct 627 in example 710.

[0039]

[0075] In a further aspect of the present disclosure, it has been discovered that circular saw blades are more likely to overheat if they are not stabilized. Thus, various aspects of stabilizing the circular saw blade to minimize wobble during use are contemplated. In a particular contemplated aspect, a blade stabilizing roller is coupled to the circular saw blade, as shown in FIG. 22. Within such an embodiment, the circular saw blade 830 is housed within a blade guard 832 as shown, and is coupled to an arbor shaft 830 and a blade stabilizing roller 835. During use, the arbor shaft 830 begins to rotate, which rotates the circular saw blade 830. When the circular saw blade 830 contacts a workpiece, the blade stabilizing roller 835 keeps the circular saw blade 830 firmly aligned while still allowing the circular saw blade 830 to rotate. Thus, the circular saw blade 830 is less likely to overheat because it is more stable and less susceptible to wobble.

[0040] Exemplary Multi-Stage Filter Aspects

[0076] As previously discussed, various aspects are contemplated that are directed to the use of a multi-stage filter, such as the previously described apparatus 200. In a particular embodiment, an apparatus is disclosed that includes a housing with a vacuum source and a multi-stage filter. The apparatus further includes a circular saw blade and a work table with a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade. Here, the vacuum source is configured to provide negative pressure beneath the work table at the central slot, and the multi-stage filter is configured to collect airborne debris drawn by the negative pressure from an area proximate to the central slot.

[0041]

[0077] In some countries, there are problems with the actual removal of dust from the device disclosed herein. Therefore, various aspects of a special removable dust tray are contemplated, as illustrated in Figures 23-26 and further illustrated in the device 200 of Figures 27-29. As shown, a removable dust tray 900 may be placed below the multi-stage filter, the removable dust tray 900 comprising a number of separate compartments 910, 920 and 930, with each stage of the multi-stage filter having a corresponding compartment within the removable dust tray 900 (e.g., below the fines compartment 260, the cyclone particle compartment 250 and the heavy debris compartment 260). The removable dust tray 900 may be further configured to accommodate at least one dust containment bag 1000, comprising a drawstring 1010 and a washer 1020, as shown. By pulling the drawstring 1010 while the removable dust tray 900 is inserted into the device 200, the user can seal in all collected dust before removing the removable dust tray 900 from the device 200.

[0042] Exemplary Auxiliary Port Aspects

[0078] As previously discussed, various aspects are contemplated that are directed to the use of an auxiliary port, such as the previously described apparatus 200. In a particular embodiment, an apparatus is disclosed that includes a vacuum source, a circular saw blade, and a work table. In this embodiment, the work table includes a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade, and the vacuum source is configured to provide a first negative pressure beneath the work table at the central slot. And, the vacuum source is further configured to provide a second negative pressure via the auxiliary port.

[0043]

[0079] In some configurations, it may be desirable to divert the dust via a different dust path. For example, FIG. 30 provides a schematic diagram of an example blade guard dust diversion path according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, three cyclone filters 1116 are dedicated to receiving dust collected in the central slot 1126, while a fourth cyclone filter 1117 is dedicated to collecting dust from the upper blade guard 1132 through the support arm 1136. This allows a constant vacuum to be provided to this back side of the blade, if necessary.

[0044] Exemplary Shared Dirt Tray Embodiments

[0080] Various aspects disclosed herein are directed to a portable electronic dust extractor configured for heavy dust extraction (e.g., capable of removing 50 pounds of dust in 30 seconds). In a first aspect, it is contemplated that the portable electronic dust extractor may include a multi-stage filter, with each respective filter chamber being coupled to a shared dust containment area. Thus, unlike conventional multi-stage filters in which each filter chamber is provided with a separate dust containment area, the dust extractor disclosed herein allows for monitoring and cleaning of a single dust containment area.

[0045]

[0081] In another aspect, a movable barrier is disposed between at least one multi-stage filter chamber and the shared dust containment area. In a particular embodiment, it is considered that the movable barrier is disposed between the shared dust containment area and the filter chamber corresponding to the cylindrical filter. During operation of the dust extractor, the movable barrier is closed to facilitate air flow, and the closed movable barrier isolates the cylindrical filter from the shareable dust containment area. However, it is considered that when operation is stopped, the movable barrier functions as a gate for the dust collected by the cylindrical filter. For this purpose, it is further considered that the gate may be automated so as to open and close automatically depending on whether the dust extractor is operated or not.

[0046]

[0082] In Fig. 31, a block diagram of an exemplary device for facilitating storing airborne dust collected by a multi-stage filtration system in a shared dust containment area according to an aspect of the present specification is provided. Here, it should be understood that the device 1200 is substantially similar to the device 100 illustrated in Fig. 1. As illustrated, the device 1200 may include a housing 1210 and a working area 1250, and the housing 1210 may further include a vacuum source 1220, a multi-stage filter 1230, and a shared dust tray 1240. During an exemplary use of the device 1200, the vacuum source 1220 is configured to provide a negative pressure that draws airborne dust from the working area 1250 toward the multi-stage filter 1230. In this embodiment, it is considered that the shared dust tray 1240 includes a shared dust containment area, and the shared dust containment area is a single compartment configured to receive airborne dust collected by the multi-stage filter 1230 directly from each of the multiple stages of the multi-stage filter 1230.

[0047]

[0083] 32, a conceptual diagram of an exemplary multi-stage filtration system coupled to a shared dust containment area according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. As shown, a scenario 1300 is considered in which a multi-stage filter 1230 comprises a plurality of stages 1232, 1234, 1236, and 1238. In this example, dust particles are attracted toward each of the plurality of stages 1232, 1234, 1236, and 1238, and a shared dust containment area 1242 is configured to receive airborne dust collected by the multi-stage filter 1230 directly from each of the plurality of stages 1232, 1234, 1236, and 1238, as shown.

[0048]

[0084] It should be noted that by utilizing a shared dust containment area 1242 rather than a compartmentalized dust tray (e.g., dust tray 900 including dust compartments 910, 920, and 930), more power is required to generate the same airflow. Thus, to emulate the compartmentalized operation of the multi-stage filter 1230, it is contemplated that each of the multiple stages 1232, 1234, 1236, and 1238 may include a barrier, as illustrated in FIGS.

[0049]

[0085] 33 provides a conceptual diagram of an exemplary multi-stage filtration system with closed movable barriers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, each of the multiple stages 1232, 1234, 1236, and 1238 has a corresponding movable barrier 1233, 1235, 1237, and 1239. In this scenario 1400, it is contemplated that while the vacuum source 1220 is in an "operation" mode, each of the movable barriers 1233, 1235, 1237, and 1239 are closed as shown. With each of the movable barriers 1233, 1235, 1237, and 1239 closed, airflow levels can be maintained without requiring a substantial increase in power from the vacuum source 1220.

[0050]

[0086] During operation, as shown, dust particles also begin to collect on each of the movable barriers 1233, 1235, 1237, and 1239. When operation ceases (i.e., when the vacuum source 1220 is in "idle" mode), each of the movable barriers 1233, 1235, 1237, and 1239 are contemplated to open to allow the accumulated dust to migrate into the shared dust containment area below. An example of such a scenario 1500 is provided in FIG.

[0051]

[0087] Referring now to Fig. 35, a schematic diagram of an exemplary dust tray having a shared dust compartment is provided in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown, unlike the compartmentalized structure of dust tray 900, the shared dust tray 1300 illustrated in Fig. 35 includes a shared dust compartment 1310. It is further contemplated that the shared dust tray 1300 may be configured for use with various multi-stage filter embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the shared dust tray 1300 may be configured for use with the multi-stage filter arrangements illustrated in Figs. 36 and 37.

[0052]

[0088] In Fig. 36, a schematic diagram of an exemplary multi-stage filter apparatus is provided that is substantially similar to the saw apparatus 200 illustrated in Figs. 2-13. For this scenario 1600, it is contemplated that the multiple stages of the multi-stage filter apparatus include a heavy debris chute 1315 configured to separate heavy debris 1340, at least one cyclone filter 1316 configured to separate cyclone particles 1350, and a rotatable filter 1317 configured to separate fine particles 1360. During operation, it is contemplated that each of the heavy debris 1340 and cyclone particles 1350 accumulates in the shared dust compartment 1310 of the shared dust tray 1300 as shown. In this particular embodiment, a movable barrier 1370 configured between the rotatable filter 1317 and the shared dust tray 1300 is in a closed position to facilitate airflow. When operation stops, as shown by the scenario 1700 illustrated in Fig. 37, the movable barrier 1370 opens, which allows the particulates 1360 to pass into the shared dust compartment 1310 below, as shown. The particulates 1360 in the rotatable filter 1317 can also be removed by rotating the rotatable filter 1317 to cause the flap 1318 (substantially similar to the filter cleaning flap 218) to continuously contact the pleat segments of the rotatable filter 1317. Furthermore, as the rotatable filter 1317 rotates, the flap 1318 removes the particulates 1360 from the pleat segments that fall into the shared dust compartment 1310.

[0053] Exemplary Filter Protection Embodiments

[0089] In a further aspect, since the embodiments disclosed herein may be configured for heavy dust extraction, various filter protection mechanisms are contemplated. For example, with respect to the cylindrical filters mentioned above (e.g., rotatable filter 1317), it is expected that high velocity impact of dust with such filters will cause significant wear and tear.

[0054]

[0090] In a first exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 38, instead of directing the airflow directly to the cylindrical filter, the airflow is looped around the outer housing of the filter to protect the filter. In this particular embodiment 1800, it is contemplated that the dust collection device may include a rotatable filter 1417, a filter housing 1415 configured to accommodate the filter 1417, and an inlet 1420 coupled to the filter housing 1415. As illustrated, the inlet 1420 may be configured to receive a flow of particulates 1460 drawn by negative pressure (e.g., via a vacuum source), and the inlet 1420 is further configured to mitigate high-velocity impact of the particulates 1460 onto the rotatable filter 1417. Additionally, the inlet 1420 may be configured to direct the flow of particulates 1460 into the interior of the filter housing 1415, as shown.

[0055]

[0091] Alternatively or additionally, a mesh (e.g., an aluminum mesh) may be placed upstream from the rotatable filter 1417 to slow down dust approaching the rotatable filter 1417. A schematic diagram of an exemplary filter protection design including such a mesh is provided in FIG. 39. In this particular embodiment 1900, as shown, it is contemplated that the inlet 1420 comprises a mesh 1430 positioned between the rotatable filter 1417 and the flow of particulates 1460, the mesh 1430 being configured to reduce the dust velocity of at least a portion of the particulates 1460.

[0056]

[0092] The term "exemplary" is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. Moreover, any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, and is not meant to exclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those skilled in the art. Moreover, to the extent that the terms "including," "having," "including," and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, for the avoidance of doubt, such terms are intended to be inclusive in the same manner as the term "comprising" as an open transition word, without excluding additional or other elements.

[0057]

[0093] The above-mentioned system has been described with respect to interactions between several components. It can be understood that such systems and components can include those components or the identified sub-components, some of the identified components or sub-components, and / or additional components according to various permutations and combinations of the above. Sub-components can also be implemented as components coupled to other components rather than being included within a parent component (hierarchy). It should further be noted that one or more components may be combined into a single component providing an aggregate functionality, or may be split into several separate sub-components, and any one or more intermediate layers may be provided to couple such sub-components to provide integrated functionality. Any component described herein may interact with one or more other components not specifically described herein but generally known by those skilled in the art.

[0058]

[0094] With the above exemplary systems in mind, methodologies that may be implemented in accordance with the disclosed subject matter can be understood with reference to the various figures. For ease of explanation, the methodologies are described as a series of steps, however, it should be understood and appreciated that the disclosed subject matter is not limited by the order of steps, as some steps may occur in a different order than those described herein and / or may occur simultaneously with other steps described herein. Furthermore, not all disclosed steps are required to implement the methodologies described below.

[0059]

[0095] Although various embodiments have been described in connection with the exemplary embodiments in the various figures, it should be understood that other similar embodiments may be used, or modifications and additions may be made to the described embodiments to perform the same functions without departing from there. Thus, the present invention should not be limited to any single embodiment.

Claims

1. a vacuum source configured to provide a negative pressure; a multi-stage filter configured to collect the suspended dust drawn out by the negative pressure; A dust collection device comprising: a dust tray having a shared dust containment area, the shared dust containment area being a single compartment configured to receive the airborne dust collected by the multi-stage filter directly from each of a plurality of stages of the multi-stage filter.

2. The dust collecting device of claim 1 , wherein the multi-stage filter comprises at least one cyclone filter.

3. The dust collection device of claim 1 , wherein the multi-stage filter comprises a rotatable filter.

4. The dust collection device of claim 1 , wherein the multi-stage filter comprises at least one stage configured to receive unfiltered airborne dust drawn by the negative pressure.

5. 2. The dust collection device of claim 1, wherein the shared dust containment area is configured to receive a first portion of the airborne dust directly from a first stage of the multi-stage filter comprising a rotatable filter, and the shared dust containment area is configured to receive a second portion of the airborne dust directly from a second stage of the multi-stage filter comprising at least one cyclone filter.

6. 2. The dust collection device of claim 1, wherein the shared dust containment area is configured to receive a first portion of the airborne dust directly from a first stage of the multi-stage filter comprising a filter, and the shared dust containment area is configured to receive a second portion of the airborne dust directly from a second stage of the multi-stage filter configured to receive unfiltered airborne dust drawn out by the negative pressure.

7. The dust collection device of claim 1 , wherein at least one stage of the multi-stage filter comprises a movable barrier positioned between the at least one stage of the multi-stage filter and the shared dust containment area.

8. 8. The dust collecting apparatus of claim 7, wherein the movable barrier is configured to open while the vacuum is in an idle mode, and the movable barrier is configured to close while the vacuum is in an operating mode.

9. 9. The dust collecting device of claim 8, wherein the presence of the negative pressure closes the movable barrier while in the operating mode, and the absence of the negative pressure opens the movable barrier while in the idle mode.

10. 9. The dust collecting device of claim 8, wherein the presence of a magnetic attraction force between the two halves of the movable barrier closes the movable barrier while in the operating mode, and the absence of the magnetic attraction force between the two halves of the movable barrier opens the movable barrier while in the idle mode.

11. 11. The dust collecting apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a power source coupled to the movable barrier, the power source configured to create the magnetic attraction force between the two halves of the movable barrier while in the operational mode.

12. The dust collection device of claim 7 , wherein the at least one stage of the multi-stage filter comprises a rotatable filter.

13. A filter, a filter housing configured to house the filter; a dust collection device comprising: an inlet coupled to the filter housing, the inlet configured to receive a flow of airborne dust drawn by negative pressure, the inlet further configured to mitigate impact of the airborne dust onto the filter.

14. The dust collection device of claim 13 , wherein the inlet is configured to direct a flow of the airborne dust towards an interior portion of the filter housing.

15. 15. The dust collection device of claim 14, wherein the filter and the filter housing are each substantially cylindrical, and the positioning of the inlet relative to the filter housing causes a flow of the airborne dust to proceed around the filter.

16. 14. The dust collection device of claim 13, wherein the inlet comprises a mesh positioned between the filter and the flow of airborne dust, the mesh configured to reduce a dust velocity of at least a portion of the airborne dust.

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