Circular saw apparatus with integrated dust collection system

Abstract

Various embodiments of a sawing apparatus are disclosed. In a first embodiment, a work platform is connected to a vacuum source, the vacuum source configured to provide a negative pressure region beneath the work platform. A divider divides the negative pressure region into a first negative pressure region via a first air flow path and a second negative pressure region via a second air flow path. In a second embodiment, the work platform includes a housing, the housing connected to a vacuum source configured to provide multiple negative pressure regions beneath the work platform. In another embodiment, data is received, the data including a first portion corresponding to a negative pressure level in the first region and a second portion corresponding to a negative pressure level in the second region. A determination is then made as to whether either negative pressure level is below a threshold.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The subject matter of this disclosure relates generally to dust collection, and more particularly to incorporating a dust collection system within a circular saw apparatus.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 416,904, entitled "CIRCULAR SAW APPARATUS WITH AN INTEGRATED DUST COLLECTION SYSTEM," filed October 17, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0003] When using conventional power saws, the release of airborne dust and particulate matter resulting from cutting a workpiece is a problem. The health hazards associated with inhaling such dust are particularly problematic. The development of wet-cutting devices is one solution to dust mitigation. In this method, water is sprayed onto the cutting edge of the blade, where the dust is entrained in the fluid and directed into a holding area. While most wet-cutting methods work relatively well, they introduce new issues of wastewater pollution and environmental concerns. For example, conventional masonry and tile saws typically include a water container or pan with a pump that delivers water to the cutting head. While the saw is cutting, water is sprayed and scattered around the saw's cutting area. Because this water can drip, splash, and even spill, power saws cannot be installed near the actual masonry or tile work being performed. This requires users to spend a significant amount of time traveling back and forth between the saw and the installation site.

[0004] Therefore, a dry power saw that prevents dust from escaping into the environment is desirable. It should be noted that the above-mentioned deficiencies are intended merely to provide a summary of some of the problems with conventional systems and are not intended to be exhaustive. Other problems in the art and some corresponding advantages of various non-limiting embodiments will become more apparent upon review of the following detailed description. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A simplified summary is provided here to aid in a basic or general understanding of various aspects of the exemplary, non-limiting embodiments (followed by a more detailed description and accompanying drawings). However, this summary is not intended to be 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 follows.

[0006] In accordance with one or more embodiments and corresponding disclosure, various non-limiting aspects are described in connection with a dust collection system. In one such aspect, an apparatus for facilitating dust collection is disclosed. In such an embodiment, the apparatus includes a circular saw blade and a work table connected to a vacuum source, the vacuum source configured to provide a negative pressure region below the work table. The apparatus further includes a divider configured to divide the negative pressure region below the work table into a first negative pressure region via a first air flow path and a second negative pressure region via a second air flow path. In this embodiment, a dimensional difference between the first and second air flow paths facilitates a pressure differential between the first and second negative pressure regions.

[0007] In a further aspect, another apparatus for facilitating dust collection is disclosed. In this embodiment, the apparatus includes a vacuum source, a circular saw blade, and a work table including a negative pressure housing, wherein the negative pressure housing is connected to the vacuum source and configured to provide multiple negative pressure zones below the work table.

[0008] In yet another aspect, a method for facilitating dust collection is disclosed, the method comprising: executing computer-executable instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium using a processor to perform various operations. The operations of the method include receiving vacuum data associated with a vacuum source configured to provide multiple vacuum zones under a work table of a saw apparatus. In such an embodiment, a first portion of the vacuum data corresponds to a vacuum level of a first vacuum zone of the multiple vacuum zones, and a second portion of the vacuum data corresponds to a vacuum level of a second vacuum zone of the multiple vacuum zones. The operations of the method include determining whether either the vacuum level of the first vacuum zone of the multiple vacuum zones or the vacuum level of the second vacuum zone of the multiple vacuum zones is below a threshold vacuum level.

[0009] Other embodiments and various non-limiting examples, scenarios and implementations are described in further detail below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] Various non-limiting embodiments are further described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus that facilitates removing airborne dust via a filtration system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary device having an integrated filtration system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary environment that facilitates dust collection according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating exemplary components of a management system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary single vacuum table saw having multiple dust collection zones according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a top schematic view of an exemplary single vacuum table saw with multiple dust collection zones as shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an exemplary single vacuum table saw having multiple dust collection zones as shown in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a photograph showing an exemplary opening in a sidewall of a negative pressure housing according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method for facilitating monitoring a vacuum level within a saw apparatus in accordance with one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary motor housed within a cylindrical filter according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary motor and cylindrical filter in an exploded view according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary vacuum fan coupled to a vacuum motor housed within a cylindrical filter according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary cylindrical filter including a filter media and a filter gear according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary filter connected to logic circuitry according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method for facilitating monitoring of sensors in a saw apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary portable mechanism incorporated into a saw apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary stabilizing wheel according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method for facilitating verification of adjustments of a portable mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary non-limiting network environment in which various embodiments described herein may be implemented. [Figure 20]FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary non-limiting computing system or operating environment in which one or more aspects of the various embodiments described herein may be implemented. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] overview Various embodiments disclosed herein are directed to incorporating a dust collection system into a circular saw machine. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus that facilitates removing airborne dust in accordance with one aspect of the present invention. As shown, the apparatus 100 includes a housing 110, a work table 120, and a circular saw blade 130. The housing 110 further includes a vacuum source 112 and a filter 114. As shown in FIG. 2, the work table 120 is envisioned to include a central slot 122 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 130, and the work table 120 is configured to slide over the housing 110. During use, the vacuum source 112 is configured to apply a negative pressure beneath the work table 120 at the central slot 122, while the filter 114 is configured to collect airborne dust drawn by the negative pressure from an area adjacent the central slot.

[0012] Various embodiments of the circular saw apparatus 100 are contemplated and disclosed herein. For example, a first embodiment contemplates a single vacuum source design with multiple dust collection zones. Another embodiment contemplates a saw apparatus with a vacuum motor built-in filter design. Yet another embodiment contemplates a saw apparatus with an integrated transport mechanism.

[0013] Example Environment 3, an exemplary environment for facilitating dust collection in accordance with one aspect of the present invention is provided. As shown, environment 200 includes a user device 220 and an external entity 240 communicatively connected to a management system 230 via a network 210 (e.g., the Internet). In certain aspects, management system 230 is contemplated to be a system including hardware and / or software components configured to facilitate various dust collection aspects disclosed herein. Furthermore, it is contemplated that any combination of hardware and / or software components of management system 230 may reside within a sawing apparatus (e.g., circular sawing apparatus 100) or may reside external to the sawing apparatus (e.g., circular sawing apparatus 100).

[0014] In an exemplary use case, it is contemplated that a user may monitor and / or control aspects of a sawing apparatus (e.g., circular sawing apparatus 100) by connecting with management system 230 via user device 220 (e.g., a smartphone, laptop, etc.). For example, connecting with management system 230 may enable a user to monitor and / or control aspects of a sawing apparatus as disclosed below with reference to FIGS. 5-9, a sawing apparatus having a vacuum motor-integrated filter design as disclosed below with reference to FIGS. 10-15, and / or a sawing apparatus having an integrated portability mechanism as disclosed below with reference to FIGS. 16-18.

[0015] Exemplary Management System FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary management system 300 that facilitates various aspects disclosed herein and that is substantially similar to management system 230. As shown in FIG. 4, management system 300 may include a processor component 310, a memory component 320, a communications component 330, a logic / control component 340, and a sensor component 350. Components 310-350 may reside together in a single location or may reside separately in different locations in various combinations, including, for example, configurations in which any of the foregoing components reside in the cloud. For example, with reference to FIG. 1, it is contemplated that the components, singly or in combination, may reside in computing devices corresponding to any of user device 220, management system 230, and / or external entity 240.

[0016] In one aspect, processor component 310 is configured to execute computer-readable instructions associated with performing any of a number of functions. Processor component 310 can be a single processor or multiple processors that analyze and / or generate information utilized by memory component 320, communications component 330, logic / control component 340, and / or sensor component 350. Additionally or alternatively, processor component 310 can be configured to control one or more components of management system 300.

[0017] In another aspect, a memory component 320 is coupled to the processor component 310 and configured to store computer-readable instructions executed by the processor component 310. The memory component 320 may also be configured to store any of several other types of data, including data generated by any of the communications component 330, the logic / control component 340, and / or the sensor component 350. The memory component 320 may be configured in a number of different forms, such as random access memory, battery-backed memory, solid-state memory, a hard disk, or magnetic tape. Various features may also be implemented in the memory component 320, such as compression and automatic backup (e.g., using a RAID configuration). In one aspect, the memory may be located on a network, such as a "cloud storage" solution.

[0018] As shown, management system 300 may also include a communications component 330 to facilitate communications with, for example, user devices 220 and / or external entities 240. Management system 300 may also include a logic / control component 340 to facilitate various logic and control aspects disclosed herein. Additionally, management system 300 may include a sensor component 350 to facilitate various sensor-related aspects disclosed herein.

[0019] Exemplary Single Vacuum Source Embodiments with Multiple Collection Zones In cutting machines with integrated dust collection designed to cut specific materials, there are typically areas or collection zones within the system that can utilize increased vacuum air velocity to make the system more effective. For example, in a table saw machine, a single vacuum can be used to create a first collection zone where dust is drawn through a filter and a second collection zone where dust is drawn from the point of contact between the saw and the item being cut. Here, it may be desirable to increase the vacuum air velocity in the second collection zone compared to the first collection zone.

[0020] Various embodiments of the disclosure are directed to table saws including multiple dust collection zones driven by a single vacuum source. In certain embodiments, a single-vacuum table saw configuration with two dust collection zones is envisioned in which one dust collection zone (e.g., the dust collection zone at the contact point) has a higher vacuum air velocity than the other dust collection zone. That is, by inserting a cover plate between the contact point and the vacuum source, a higher vacuum air velocity can be achieved at the contact point, thereby forming a "thinner" conduit between the contact point and the vacuum source. This thin conduit shape allows the negative pressure generated by the vacuum to be concentrated at the contact point, thereby allowing a much higher vacuum velocity (e.g., twice as fast) than another dust collection zone where the vacuum sucks dust through a filter.

[0021] Referring now to FIG. 5, a schematic diagram of an exemplary single-vacuum table saw having multiple dust collection zones in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is provided. Additionally, FIG. 6 is a schematic top view of the exemplary single-vacuum table saw shown in FIG. 5, and FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary single-vacuum table saw shown in FIG. 5. As shown, a sawing apparatus substantially similar to apparatus 100 is contemplated. That is, sawing apparatus 400 includes a vacuum source 412, a circular saw blade 430, and a work table 420 connected to vacuum source 412, where vacuum source 412 is configured to provide a negative pressure region beneath work table 420. The sawing apparatus may further include a divider 440 configured to divide the negative pressure region beneath work table 420 into a first negative pressure region via first air flow path 442 and a second negative pressure region via second air flow path 444, where a dimensional difference between first air flow path 442 and second air flow path 444 facilitates a pressure differential between the first and second negative pressure regions.

[0022] As shown, in certain embodiments, the first negative pressure region is proximate to the expected point of contact between the circular saw blade 430 and the workpiece, and the divider 440 is a cover plate configured to provide a dimensional difference between the first air flow passage 442 and the second air flow passage 444. It is also contemplated that the saw apparatus further includes a filter 414 coupled to the first air flow passage 442. For example, as described in more detail below, the filter is a cylindrical filter, and a motor (not shown) is configured to drive the vacuum source 412, the motor being housed within the cylindrical filter.

[0023] In another embodiment, it is envisioned that the divider 440 is within a negative pressure housing (e.g., opening 452 shown in FIG. 8) of the work table 420 connected to the vacuum source 412, and the negative pressure housing includes at least one opening (e.g., negative pressure housing 450 shown in FIG. 8) for further dividing the negative pressure region beneath the work table 420 into a third negative pressure region. For example, the negative pressure housing can define a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade 430, with the first and second negative pressure regions providing negative pressure within the central slot and the third negative pressure region providing negative pressure outside the central slot.

[0024] 8 illustrates an exemplary negative pressure housing. In certain embodiments contemplated herein, an apparatus includes a vacuum source 412, a circular saw blade 430, and a work table 420 including a negative pressure housing 450. The negative pressure housing 450 is connected to the vacuum source 412 and configured to provide multiple negative pressure regions below the work table 420.

[0025] In a first aspect, it is envisioned that the vacuum housing 450 includes a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade 430, with a first vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones located within the central slot and a second vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones located outside the central slot. In such an embodiment, the vacuum housing 450 may include an opening 452 in a sidewall generally perpendicular to the central slot, with a second vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones located outside the central slot and proximate the opening 452 in the sidewall. Here, it is further envisioned that the vacuum housing 450 includes a second opening in a second sidewall (not shown) generally perpendicular to the central slot, with a third vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones located outside the central slot and proximate the second opening in the second sidewall.

[0026] In another aspect, the vacuum housing 450 can include a partition 440 in a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade 430, with a first vacuum region of the plurality of vacuum regions on a first side of the partition 440 in the central slot and a second vacuum region of the plurality of vacuum regions on a second side of the partition 440 in the central slot. It is further contemplated that the vacuum housing 450 includes a first air flow passage on the first side of the partition 440 and a second air flow passage on the second side of the partition 440, and a dimensional difference between the first and second air flow passages creates a pressure differential between the first vacuum region of the plurality of vacuum regions and the second vacuum region of the plurality of vacuum regions.

[0027] In yet another aspect, it is contemplated that at least one negative pressure sensor (e.g., represented by sensor component 350) is configured to monitor a negative pressure level in at least one negative pressure zone of the plurality of negative pressure zones. For example, with reference to FIG. 9 , a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for facilitating monitoring a negative pressure level in a saw apparatus according to one embodiment is provided. As shown, process 500 includes a series of operations that may be performed by a management system (e.g., management system 300) including at least one computing device according to one aspect of the present invention. For example, process 500 may be performed by using a processor executing computer-executable instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium to perform the series of operations. In another embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium including code for causing at least one computer to perform the operations of process 500 is contemplated.

[0028] In one aspect, process 500 begins at operation 502, where management system 300 receives vacuum data associated with a vacuum source configured to provide multiple vacuum zones under a work table of a saw apparatus, where a first portion of the vacuum data corresponds to a vacuum level of a first one of the multiple vacuum zones and a second portion of the vacuum data corresponds to a vacuum level of a second one of the multiple vacuum zones. Process 500 then ends at operation 504, where management system 300 determines whether either the vacuum level of the first one of the multiple vacuum zones or the vacuum level of the second one of the multiple vacuum zones is below a threshold vacuum level.

[0029] Various other aspects of process 500 are also contemplated. For example, process 500 may further include providing an indication that at least one of the negative pressure level of a first negative pressure region of the plurality of negative pressure regions or the negative pressure level of a second negative pressure region of the plurality of negative pressure regions is below a threshold negative pressure level. For example, providing may include transmitting the indication to a remote entity via a network protocol. It is also contemplated that process 500 may include instructing a user to manually clean a filter coupled to the vacuum source and / or instructing a saw device to automatically clean a filter coupled to the vacuum source.

[0030] Exemplary Motor-Integrated Filter Embodiments High-volume air movers or vacuum devices with dust filtration systems are large and bulky, severely limiting the applications and portability of systems that utilize them. For example, some of these devices require a large space (e.g., approximately 8 feet) to generate the vacuum airflow and dust filtration to meet performance thresholds of 1000 CFM or more airflow, 8 inches of pumping vacuum, and 99% or more efficient filters. 3) is required. It is also desirable for high-volume filtration systems to include a mechanism for easily and seamlessly cleaning the filters. Previous methods have included using compressed air, shaking the filter, or some other agitation mechanism to release dust from the filter media into a dust bin.

[0031] Various aspects of the disclosure are directed to a filter coupled to a vacuum source, in which a vacuum motor is housed within the filter. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 10-14 , a cylindrical vacuum motor is housed within a cylindrical filter with pleated filter media. As shown, it is envisioned that a vacuum motor 612 is housed within the filter 614, and the vacuum motor 612 is configured to drive a vacuum fan 650. Here, the cylindrical shape of the vacuum motor 612 forms a spindle, which can seal the filter 614 and enable rotation for cleaning the pleated filter media 660 via an agitation flap 680. For example, the filter 614 can be configured to be manually rotated, and as the filter 614 rotates, the pleated filter media 660 and the agitation flap 680 come into contact, releasing dust accumulated on the filter 614 into a dust compartment 692.

[0032] Alternatively, filter 614 may further include a gear 670 at one end that meshes with a motorized drive gear that can cause filter 614 to be automatically rotated by logic circuit 690 according to a set of programmable parameters (e.g., logic circuit 690 being programmable and / or controllable via a computing device such as the computing device shown in FIG. 20). Indeed, it is contemplated that the sawing apparatus may include a sensor component (e.g., represented by sensor component 350) and a logic circuit (e.g., represented by logic / control component 340) configured to automatically rotate the cylindrical filter in response to a trigger detected by the sensor component. It should be understood that any of a variety of triggers are contemplated (e.g., the trigger being a threshold number of uses, a threshold time of use, and / or a threshold negative pressure level in a negative pressure region within the sawing apparatus).

[0033] Another aspect contemplates an apparatus including a vacuum source, a vacuum motor configured to drive the vacuum source, and a rotatable filter configured to collect airborne dust sucked by the negative pressure generated by the vacuum source. Here, the vacuum motor is housed within the rotatable filter, and an outer portion of the rotatable filter includes a pleated medium configured to contact an agitation flap to facilitate removal of dust from the pleated medium via rotation of the rotatable filter. Various other aspects of the apparatus are also contemplated. For example, the vacuum motor can be configured to remain stationary during rotation of the rotatable filter. The apparatus can also include a filter motor configured to provide power to rotate the rotatable filter. Furthermore, the rotatable filter can include a knob configured to facilitate manual rotation of the rotatable filter.

[0034] It should be further appreciated that in exemplary embodiments, the filter-in-motor designs shown in Figures 10-14 can be implemented within the apparatus 100. For example, it is contemplated that the saw apparatus 100 could include a vacuum source 112 driven by a vacuum motor 612 and a filter 614 coupled to the vacuum source 112, with the vacuum motor 612 housed within the filter 614. In such embodiments, the apparatus 100 could further include a work table 120 including a central slot 122 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 130, the vacuum source 112 configured to provide negative pressure below the work table 120 at the central slot 122, and the filter 614 configured to collect airborne dust drawn in by the negative pressure from an area proximate the central slot 122.

[0035] 15, a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for facilitating monitoring of sensors in a saw apparatus according to one embodiment is provided. As shown, process 700 includes a series of operations performed by a management system (e.g., management system 300) including at least one computing device according to an aspect of the present invention. For example, process 700 may be performed by using a processor executing computer-executable instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium to perform the series of operations. In another embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium including code for causing at least one computer to perform the operations of process 700 is contemplated.

[0036] In one aspect, process 700 begins at operation 702, in which the management system 300 monitors at least one sensor connected to a saw device, the saw device including a vacuum source driven by a vacuum motor housed within a cylindrical filter. Process 700 then proceeds to operation 704, in which the management system 300 detects a trigger sensed by the at least one sensor, and then ends at operation 706, in which the management system 300 determines a notification associated with the cylindrical filter in response to detecting the trigger sensed by the at least one sensor.

[0037] Various other aspects of process 700 are also contemplated. For example, any of a variety of triggers are contemplated (e.g., the trigger being a threshold number of uses, a threshold time of use, and / or a threshold negative pressure level in a negative pressure region within the saw apparatus), as well as any of a variety of types of notifications. For example, the notification may be an instruction to clean or replace the cylindrical filter, and process 700 may further include sending the instruction to a remote entity via a network protocol. In another aspect, the notification may be an instruction to the saw apparatus to perform automatic rotation of the cylindrical filter, an outer portion of the cylindrical filter comprising pleated media configured to contact an agitation flap to facilitate removal of dust from the pleated media via the automatic rotation of the cylindrical filter.

[0038] Exemplary Integrated Transport Mechanism Embodiments Conventional masonry and stone-cutting saws with 20-inch blade capacities are configured to cut masonry material or stone up to 8 inches in height. However, such tools are very heavy (e.g., over 500 pounds) and bulky, often requiring specialized equipment (e.g., a forklift) to move. Furthermore, the lack of portability of such tools often necessitates keeping the tool stationary and carrying the masonry material / stone pieces to the tool, which is not always feasible or practical. Conventional masonry and stone-cutting saws that are considered "portable" are typically smaller (e.g., with 14-inch blades) and do not have the same cutting capacity as much larger 20-inch masonry and stone-cutting saws.

[0039] Various aspects of the disclosure are directed to a portable, heavy-duty cutting saw tool (e.g., with a 20-inch masonry and stone saw), as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. In certain embodiments, an integrated system with lightweight components is contemplated, with the entire apparatus 800 having a target weight of approximately 350 pounds or less. For example, such integrated portability may include utilizing a tube frame on wheels 810 with a durable plastic housing that encloses various components of the saw tool (e.g., an integrated dust collection vacuum system within the saw tool). Components that facilitate portability are also contemplated for integration with the saw tool (e.g., forklift pockets 820 and / or a central lift point 830 for easy portability over rough terrain and for easy loading and unloading of the saw tool during transport).

[0040] In another embodiment, a three-wheel configuration is contemplated, where the weight distribution of the saw tool 800 allows the saw tool 800 to be easily carried over rough terrain by tilting it toward the stabilizing wheels 812. For example, FIG. 17 is an exemplary schematic diagram showing the device 800 in a rest position (i.e., with the stabilizing wheels 812 raised off the surface). Here, the device 800 is configured to tilt back, allowing the stabilizing wheels 812 to contact the surface and easily roll the device to a desired location. In general, it is contemplated that various lightweight components will be utilized to achieve an overall lightweight design, including, for example, a lightweight motor, housing, and structure having a 20-inch blade cutting capacity.

[0041] It should be appreciated that in one exemplary embodiment, the integrated portability design shown in Figures 16 and 17 can be implemented within the apparatus 100. For example, it is envisioned that the saw apparatus 100 can include a vacuum source 112 and a work platform 120 including a central slot 122 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 130, with the vacuum source 112 configured to provide negative pressure below the work platform 120 at the central slot 122. The apparatus 100 can further include a portability mechanism (e.g., wheels 810, stabilizing wheels 812, forklift pockets 820, and / or lift points 830) incorporated within the saw apparatus 100, with dimensions associated with the portability mechanism depending on the location of the center of gravity of the saw apparatus 100.

[0042] 18 , a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for facilitating verifying adjustments of a portable mechanism according to one embodiment is provided. Indeed, it is contemplated that any of the portable mechanisms of apparatus 800 (e.g., stabilizing wheels 812, forklift pockets 820, and / or central lift point 830) may be adjusted to account for various types of equipment coupled to apparatus 800 having varying and uneven distributions of mass. As illustrated, process 900 includes a series of operations that may be performed by a management system (e.g., management system 300) including at least one computing device according to an aspect of the present invention. For example, process 900 may be performed by using a processor executing computer-executable instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium to perform the series of operations. In another embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is contemplated that includes code for causing at least one computer to perform the operations of process 900.

[0043] In one aspect, process 900 begins at operation 902, where management system 300 receives a center of gravity query, where the center of gravity query includes data associated with equipment that includes a non-uniform distribution of mass. Process 900 then proceeds to operation 904, where management system 300 processes the center of gravity query, and then ends at operation 906, where management system 300 sends a portable mechanism adjustment in response to processing the center of gravity query. The portable mechanism adjustment corresponds to an adjustment of a dimension associated with the portable mechanism depending on the location of the equipment's center of gravity.

[0044] Various other aspects of process 900 are also contemplated. For example, as previously discussed, it is envisioned that any of the transportable features of apparatus 800 (e.g., stabilizing wheels 812, forklift pocket 820, and / or central lift point 830) are adjustable. Stabilizing wheels 812 can be adjusted to lock at a higher or lower height to accommodate different centers of gravity. Forklift pocket 820 can be configured to expand laterally and / or slide to accommodate different centers of gravity. Central lift point 830 can be configured to flex up or down to accommodate different centers of gravity. Thus, it should be further understood that the center of gravity query processing in operation 904 can be performed by management system 300 for known (e.g., known by the manufacturer) equipment, whose center of gravity calculations are already known, and whose corresponding transportable feature adjustments are also known.

[0045] Exemplary Networked and Distributed Environments Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various embodiments for implementing the use of computing devices described herein and related embodiments can be implemented in connection with any computer or other client or server device (which may be deployed as part of a computer network or in a distributed computing environment and may be connected to any type of data store). Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that such embodiments can be implemented in any computer system or environment having any number of memory or storage units and any number of applications and processes occurring across any number of storage units. This includes, but is not limited to, environments with server computers and client computers deployed in a networked or distributed computing environment and with remote or local storage.

[0046] 19 shows a non-limiting schematic diagram of an exemplary networked or distributed computing environment. The distributed computing environment includes computing objects or devices 1010, 1012, etc. and computing objects or devices 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, etc., which may contain programs, methods, data stores, programmable logic, etc., as represented by applications 1030, 1032, 1034, 1036, 1038. It should be understood that the computing objects or devices 1010, 1012, etc. and computing objects or devices 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, etc. may be comprised of a variety of devices, such as PDAs (personal digital assistants), audio / video devices, cell phones, MP3 players, laptops, etc.

[0047] Each computing object or device 1010, 1012, etc. and computing object or device 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, etc. can communicate, directly or indirectly, with one or more other computing objects or devices 1010, 1012, etc. and computing objects or devices 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, etc. by way of a communications network 1040. While shown as a single element in Figure 19, network 1040 may include other computing objects and computing devices that provide services to the system of Figure 19 and / or may represent multiple interconnected networks not shown. Each computing object or device 1010, 1012, etc. or 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, etc. may also include applications, such as applications 1030, 1032, 1034, 1036, 1038, which may utilize APIs (application programming interfaces) or other objects, software, firmware, and / or hardware suitable for communicating with or performing aspects of the disclosure according to various embodiments.

[0048] There are a variety of systems, components, and network configurations that support distributed computing environments. For example, computing systems may be connected to each other by wired or wireless systems, by local networks or widely distributed networks. Many networks currently connect to the Internet, which provides an infrastructure for widely distributed computing and encompasses many different networks, but any network infrastructure may be used for the exemplary communications resulting from the techniques described in various embodiments.

[0049] Thus, a host of network topologies and network infrastructures may be utilized, such as client / server, peer-to-peer, or hybrid architectures. In a client / server architecture, particularly a network system, a client is typically a computer that accesses shared network resources provided by another computer, e.g., a server. In FIG. 19 , by way of non-limiting example, computing objects or devices 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, etc. are considered clients, and computing objects or devices 1010, 1012, etc. are considered servers, with computing objects or devices 1010, 1012, etc. providing data services such as receiving data from, storing data, processing data, and transmitting data to computing objects or devices 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, etc., although any computer may be considered a client, a server, or both, depending on the circumstances. Any of these computing devices may process data or request services or tasks involving aspects and related techniques as described herein for one or more embodiments.

[0050] A server is typically a remote computer system accessible over a remote or local network, such as the Internet or a wireless network infrastructure. Client processes may be active on a first computer system and server processes may be active on a second computer system, and they may communicate with each other over a communications medium, thereby providing distributed functionality and allowing multiple clients to utilize the information gathering capabilities of the server. Software objects utilized pursuant to user profiling may be provided standalone or distributed across multiple computing devices or objects.

[0051] In a network environment where the communications network / bus 1040 is the Internet, for example, computing objects or devices 1010, 1012, etc. may be web servers, from which computing objects or devices 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, etc. communicate via any of a number of known protocols, such as HTTP. As previously mentioned, computing objects or devices 1010, 1012, etc. may also function as computing objects or devices 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, etc., and vice versa, as is characteristic of a distributed computing environment.

[0052] Exemplary Computing Device As noted above, some of the above embodiments apply to any device in which it may be desirable to include a computing device to facilitate implementation of aspects disclosed herein. Accordingly, it is understood that handheld, portable, and other computing devices and computing objects of all kinds are contemplated for use in connection with the various embodiments described herein. Thus, the general-purpose remote computer described below in FIG. 20 is merely an example, and embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in any client having network / bus interoperability and interaction.

[0053] Although not required, any embodiment may be implemented in part via an operating system and / or included within application software operating in conjunction with one or more operable components for use by developers of services for devices or objects. Software may be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by one or more computers, such as client workstations, servers, or other devices. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that network interactions can be performed with a variety of computer system configurations and protocols.

[0054] 20 illustrates an example of a suitable computing system environment 1100 on which one or more embodiments may be implemented; however, as noted above, the computing system environment 1100 is only one example of a suitable computing environment and is not intended to suggest any limitation as to the scope of use or functionality of any of the embodiments. Neither should the computing environment 1100 be interpreted as having any dependency or requirement relating to any one or combination of components illustrated in the exemplary operating environment 1100.

[0055] 20, an exemplary remote device for implementing one or more embodiments herein may include a general-purpose computing device in the form of a handheld computer 1110. Components of the handheld computer 1110 may include, but are not limited to, a processing unit 1120, a system memory 1130, and a system bus 1121 that couples various system components including the system memory to the processing unit 1120.

[0056] Computer 1110 typically includes a variety of computer-readable media, which may be any available media that can be accessed by computer 1110. System memory 1130 may include computer storage media in the form of volatile and / or nonvolatile memory such as read-only memory (ROM) and / or random access memory (RAM). For example, memory 1130 may also include, but is not limited to, an operating system, application programs, other program modules, and program data.

[0057] A user can enter commands and information into the computer 1110 through the input device 1140. A monitor or other type of display device is also connected to the system bus 1121 via an interface, such as output interface 1150. In addition to a monitor, computers may also include other peripheral output devices such as speakers or a printer, which can be connected through output interface 1150.

[0058] The computer 1110 may operate in a networked or distributed environment using logical connections to one or more other remote computers, such as a remote computer 1170. The remote computer 1170 may be a personal computer, a server, a router, a network PC, a peer device or other common network node, or any other remote media consumption or transmission device and may include any or all of the elements described above relative to the computer 1110. The logical connections shown in FIG. 20 include a network 1171, such as a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), but may also include other networks / buses. Such networking environments are commonplace in homes, offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets, and the Internet.

[0059] As noted above, while exemplary embodiments have been described in conjunction with various computing devices, networks, and architectures, the underlying concepts may be applied to any network system and any computing device or system in which it is desirable to implement aspects of the disclosure herein.

[0060] There are multiple ways of implementing one or more of the embodiments described herein, for example, by appropriate APIs, toolkits, driver code, operating systems, controls, standalone or downloadable software objects, etc. that enable an application to perform aspects disclosed herein. Embodiments are considered not only in terms of APIs (or other software objects), but also in terms of software or hardware objects that facilitate the performance of aspects disclosed herein according to one or more of the described embodiments. The various implementations and embodiments described herein can have entirely hardware, partly hardware and partly software, and software aspects.

[0061] The word "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, nor is it intended to exclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those skilled in the art. Moreover, to the extent that "includes," "has," "contains," and other similar terms 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 open transitional term "comprising," without excluding additional or other elements.

[0062] The systems described above are described with respect to interactions between multiple components. It should be understood that such systems and components can include those components or designated subcomponents, portions of the designated components or subcomponents, and / or additional components according to various permutations and combinations of those described above. Subcomponents can also be implemented as components coupled to other components rather than contained within a parent component (hierarchical). Furthermore, it should be noted that one or more components can be combined into a single component providing aggregate functionality or can be divided into several separate subcomponents, and that one or more intermediate layers can optionally be provided to couple such subcomponents to provide integrated functionality. The components described herein can also interact with one or more other components not specifically described herein but generally known to those skilled in the art.

[0063] In view of the exemplary systems described above, 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 the steps, as some steps may occur in a different order than described herein and / or concurrently with other steps. Furthermore, not all of the disclosed steps may be required to implement the methods described below.

[0064] Although various embodiments have been described in connection with exemplary embodiments in the various figures, it should be understood that other similar embodiments may be used, or modifications or additions may be made thereto to perform the same functions without departing from the described embodiments. Thus, the present invention should not be limited to a single embodiment.

Claims

1. 1. A sawing device, comprising: A vacuum source; Circular saw blade and a work surface connected to the vacuum source, the vacuum source configured to provide a negative pressure region beneath the work surface; a partition configured to divide a negative pressure region under the work surface into a first negative pressure region via a first air flow path and a second negative pressure region via a second air flow path; A sawing apparatus characterized in that a difference in size between the first air flow path and the second air flow path facilitates a pressure difference between the first negative pressure region and the second negative pressure region.

2. 2. The saw apparatus according to claim 1, The sawing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first negative pressure area is proximate to an expected point of contact between the circular saw blade and a workpiece.

3. 2. The sawing apparatus according to claim 1, 10. A saw apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein the divider is a cover plate configured to provide a dimensional difference between the first air flow path and the second air flow path.

4. 2. The saw apparatus according to claim 1, The saw apparatus further comprising a filter connected to the first air flow path.

5. 5. The sawing apparatus according to claim 4, A sawing apparatus characterized in that the filter is a cylindrical filter.

6. 6. The sawing apparatus according to claim 5, The saw apparatus further comprising a motor configured to drive the vacuum source, the motor being housed within the cylindrical filter.

7. 2. The saw apparatus according to claim 1, The saw apparatus, wherein the partition is within a negative pressure housing of the work table connected to the vacuum source, the negative pressure housing including at least one opening for further dividing the negative pressure region beneath the work table into a third negative pressure region.

8. 8. The sawing apparatus according to claim 7, the vacuum housing includes a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade, the first vacuum zone and the second vacuum zone provide vacuum within the central slot, and the third vacuum zone provides vacuum outside the central slot.

9. 1. A sawing device, comprising: A vacuum source; Circular saw blade and a workbench including a negative pressure housing, the negative pressure housing connected to the vacuum source and configured to provide multiple negative pressure zones below the workbench.

10. 10. The sawing apparatus according to claim 9, the vacuum housing includes a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade, a first vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones is within the central slot, and a second vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones is outside the central slot.

11. 11. The saw apparatus according to claim 10, the vacuum housing includes an opening in a sidewall generally perpendicular to the central slot, and a second vacuum region of the plurality of vacuum regions is outside the central slot and adjacent the opening in the sidewall.

12. 12. The saw apparatus of claim 11, the vacuum housing includes a second opening in a second sidewall generally perpendicular to the central slot, and a third vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones is outside the central slot and adjacent the second opening in the second sidewall.

13. 10. The sawing apparatus according to claim 9, the vacuum housing includes a partition within a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade, a first vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones being on a first side of the partition within the central slot, and a second vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones being on a second side of the partition within the central slot.

14. 14. The saw apparatus of claim 13, the negative pressure housing includes a first air flow path provided on a first side of the partition and a second air flow path provided on a second side of the partition, and a dimensional difference between the first air flow path and the second air flow path facilitates a pressure difference between a first negative pressure region of the plurality of negative pressure regions and a second negative pressure region of the plurality of negative pressure regions.

15. 10. The sawing apparatus according to claim 9, The saw apparatus further comprising at least one vacuum sensor configured to monitor a vacuum level in at least one of the plurality of vacuum zones.

16. Execute computer-executable instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium using a processor, thereby: receiving vacuum data associated with a vacuum source configured to provide a plurality of vacuum zones beneath a work table of a saw apparatus, wherein a first portion of the vacuum data corresponds to a vacuum level of a first vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones and a second portion of the vacuum data corresponds to a vacuum level of a second vacuum zone of the plurality of vacuum zones; determining whether a negative pressure level of a first negative pressure region of the plurality of negative pressure regions or a negative pressure level of a second negative pressure region of the plurality of negative pressure regions is below a threshold negative pressure level; A method comprising:

17. 17. The method of claim 16, providing an indication that at least one of a negative pressure level of a first negative pressure region of the plurality of negative pressure regions or a negative pressure level of a second negative pressure region of the plurality of negative pressure regions is below a threshold negative pressure level.

18. 18. The method of claim 17, The method, wherein providing includes transmitting the indication to a remote entity over a network protocol.

19. 18. The method of claim 17, The method, further comprising instructing a user to manually clean a filter coupled to the vacuum source.

20. 18. The method of claim 17, The method further comprising: communicating to the saw device instructions to automatically clean a filter coupled to the vacuum source.

Images