Dust collection device

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 the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 212,372, filed on August 31, 2015, under the title of "Circular Saw Apparatus Having an Integrated Multi - Stage Filtration System", and is a divisional application of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 253,865, filed on August 31, 2016, under the title of "Circular Saw Apparatus Having an Integrated Multi - Stage Filtration System", and is a partial continuation application of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 273,058, filed on February 11, 2019, under the title of "Circular Saw Apparatus Having an Integrated Multi - Stage Filtration System", and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 364,070, filed on March 25, 2019, under the title of "Circular Saw Apparatus Having an Integrated Multi - Stage Filtration System". All of the contents of each of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002]

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

Background Art

[0003]

[0003] When using conventional electric saws, the release of airborne dust and particulate matter resulting from cutting workpieces is a problem. Health hazards associated with breathing in such dust are particularly problematic. One solution to reduce dust is the development of a wet cutting device in which water is applied to the cutting edge of the blade, directing the dust towards the holding area along with the fluid. Most wet cutting methods work relatively well, but cause further problems of wastewater pollution and environmental issues. For example, conventional masonry and tile saws usually have a tub or pan with a pump that supplies water to the cutting head. While the saw is cutting, water is sprayed and dispersed around the cutting area of ​​the saw. Therefore, it is not possible to place the electric saw near where the actual masonry and tile installation is taking place, as this water can drip, splash, and spill. Thus, the user spends a considerable amount of time going back and forth between the electric saw and the installation area.

[0004]

[0004] Therefore, a dry-operating electric saw that prevents dust from leaking into the surroundings is desirable. For this purpose, it should be noted that the above-mentioned defects are intended merely to provide an overview of some of the problems with conventional systems and are not intended to be exhaustive. Other issues relating to state-of-the-art technology and the advantages of several corresponding various non-limiting embodiments may become further apparent by considering the detailed description below. [Overview of the project]

[0005]

[0005] A simplified overview is provided herein to help enable a basic or overall understanding of the various aspects of the exemplary and non-limiting embodiments described below and in the accompanying drawings. However, this overview is not intended to be a broad or exhaustive overview. Rather, the sole purpose of this overview is to present in a simplified form some concepts relating to some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments as a prelude to a more detailed description of the various embodiments described below.

[0006]

[0006] Various non-limiting embodiments relating to dust collection systems are described in accordance with one or more embodiments and corresponding disclosures. In one such embodiment, a device for facilitating dust collection is disclosed. In such an embodiment, the device includes a vacuum source, a circular saw blade, and a worktable having a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade, where the central slot includes an air passage close to the expected contact point between the circular saw blade and the workpiece, and the vacuum source is configured to provide a concentrated negative pressure beneath the worktable through the air passage.

[0007]

[0007] In a further embodiment, another apparatus for facilitating dust collection is disclosed. In this embodiment, the apparatus includes a housing comprising a vacuum source and a multistage filter. The apparatus further comprises a circular saw blade and a work table having a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade. Here, the vacuum source is configured to provide negative pressure below the work table at the central slot, and the multistage filter is configured to collect airborne dust drawn out by the negative pressure from an area adjacent to the central slot.

[0008]

[0008] In yet another embodiment, an apparatus for facilitating dust collection is disclosed, the apparatus comprising a vacuum source, a circular saw blade, and a worktable. In this embodiment, the worktable has a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade, and the vacuum source is configured to provide a first negative pressure below the worktable at the central slot. The vacuum source is further configured to provide a second negative pressure through an auxiliary port.

[0009]

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

[0010]

[0010] In a further embodiment, a dust collection device is disclosed that includes a filter, a filter housing configured to house 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 out by negative pressure and is further configured to reduce the impact of 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 will be further described with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1]

[0013] This is a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus according to one aspect of this specification that facilitates the removal of airborne dust through a multi-stage filtration system. [Figure 2]

[0014] This is a schematic first figure of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 3]

[0015] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 4]

[0016] This is a schematic Figure 1 of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system and a blade guard vacuum inlet according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 5]

[0017] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system and a blade guard vacuum inlet according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 6]

[0018] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system and a blade guard vacuum inlet according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 7]

[0019] Illustrates the passage of time of an exemplary use of an apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 8]

[0019] Illustrates the passage of time of an exemplary use of an apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 9]

[0019] Illustrates the passage of time of an exemplary use of an apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 10]

[0020] Shows Figure 1 of an exemplary dust path within an apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 11]

[0021] Shows Figure 2 of an exemplary dust path within an apparatus having an integrated multi-stage filtration system according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 12]

[0022] Is a schematic Figure 1 of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated extension according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 13]

[0023] Is a schematic Figure 2 of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated extension according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 14]

[0024] Is a schematic Figure 1 of an exemplary saw blade configuration according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 15]

[0025] Is a schematic Figure 2 of an exemplary saw blade configuration according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 16]

[0026] Is a schematic Figure 1 of an exemplary table saw configuration according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 17]

[0027] Is a schematic Figure 2 of an exemplary table saw configuration according to one aspect of this specification [Figure 18]

[0028] Is a side view of an exemplary apparatus that promotes blade cooling according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 19]

[0029] This is a plan view of an exemplary device for promoting blade cooling according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 20]

[0030] This is a side view of an exemplary device having louvers to facilitate blade cooling, according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 21]

[0031] This specification shows various exemplary louver inserts according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 22]

[0032] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary blade stabilizer according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 23]

[0033] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary dust tray according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 24]

[0034] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary open dust containment bag on a dust tray according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 25]

[0035] This is a side view of an exemplary open dust containment bag on a dust tray, according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 26]

[0036] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary closed dust containment bag on a dust tray according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 27]

[0037] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary removable dust tray having an open dust containment bag inserted into a device, according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 28]

[0038] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary removable dust tray inserted into a device having a closed dust containment bag, according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 29]

[0039] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary removable dust tray removed from an apparatus, according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 30]

[0040] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary bypass route for blade guard dust according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 31]

[0041] This is a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus according to one aspect of this specification, which facilitates the storage of airborne dust collected by a multi-stage filtration system in a shared dust containment area. [Figure 32]

[0042] This is a conceptual diagram of an exemplary multi-stage filtration system coupled to a shared dust containment area, according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 33]

[0043] This is a conceptual diagram of an exemplary multi-stage filtration system having a closed, movable barrier according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 34]

[0044] This is a conceptual diagram of an exemplary multi-stage filtration system having an open movable barrier according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 35]

[0045] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary dust tray having a shared dust compartment according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 36]

[0046] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary apparatus according to one aspect of this specification, which is coupled with a removable dust tray having a shared dust compartment during operation. [Figure 37]

[0047] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary apparatus according to one aspect of this specification, which, after operation, is coupled with a removable dust tray having a shared dust compartment. [Figure 38]

[0048] This is a schematic diagram of a first exemplary filter protection design according to one aspect of this specification. [Figure 39]

[0049] This is a schematic diagram of a second exemplary filter protection design according to one aspect of this specification. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] overview

[0050] Various embodiments disclosed herein are directed toward dust collection in a circular saw apparatus via a multistage filtration system. Figure 1 provides a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus having an integrated multistage filtration system according to one aspect of this specification. As shown, the apparatus 100 comprises a housing 110, a work table 120, and a circular saw blade 130, the housing 110 further comprising a vacuum source 112 and a multistage 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. During use, the vacuum source 112 is configured to provide negative pressure under the work table 120 at the central slot, while the multistage filter 114 is configured to collect airborne dust drawn out by the negative pressure from an area adjacent to the central slot.

[0015]

[0051] Various configurations of the apparatus 100 have been considered and disclosed herein. For example, in the first configuration considered, the worktable 120 is configured to slide above the housing 110 (see, for example, Figures 2 to 10). In this particular embodiment, in addition to providing negative pressure below the worktable 120 at the central slot, the vacuum source 112 also provides negative pressure in the area within the blade guard of the circular saw blade 130. Here, as shown, the multistage filter 114 is configured to collect airborne dust drawn out from within the blade guard of the circular saw blade 130, in addition to dust near the central slot of the worktable 120.

[0016]

[0052] A shredding saw configuration for the device 100 has also been considered (see, for example, Figures 14-15). In this embodiment, the worktable 120 is stationary and the circular saw blade 130 is coupled to a rotatable arm. During use, the rotatable arm is lowered over the workpiece, and dust near the central slot of the worktable 120 is drawn again toward the multi-stage filter 114 by the negative pressure provided by the vacuum source 112.

[0017]

[0053] In another aspect of this disclosure, a table saw configuration is also considered (see, for example, Figures 16-17). In such an embodiment, the circular saw blade 130 protrudes from the housing 110 through a central slot in the worktable 120. During use, the workpiece is pressed against the circular saw blade 130, and dust near the central slot in the worktable 120 is drawn again toward the multi-stage filter 114 by the negative pressure provided by the vacuum source 112.

[0018] Exemplary Sliding Table Embodiment

[0054] Herein, exemplary embodiments of the disclosed saw apparatus, in which the worktable is a sliding table, will be described in further detail. Figures 2 and 3 provide schematic Figures 1 and 2, respectively, of such an apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown, the saw apparatus 200 comprises a housing 210 coupled to a worktable 220, and a circular saw blade 230, wherein the worktable 220 is configured to slide above the housing 210 via rails 222. In this embodiment, the worktable 220 is divided, as shown, by a plurality of louvers 224 strategically spaced apart from each other in a central slot 226 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 230. Furthermore, the circular saw blade 230 is powered by a saw motor 234 and is securely mounted to the housing 210 via an arm 236. For safety, a blade guard 232 may be included.

[0019]

[0055] With respect to the housing 210, it is considered that a multi-stage filter may be included. 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 configured to create an airflow through the rotatable filter 217 and the cyclone filter 216. During use, as the work table 220 slides on the housing 210, this airflow provides negative pressure directly below the central slot 226, drawing dust near the central slot 226 through the louvers 224 towards the filter, and then collecting it in the dust container 213.

[0020]

[0056] In one aspect of this disclosure, it should be noted that if the louvers 224 are blocked, the suction force below the central slot 226 may be reduced. Indeed, if a significant number of louvers 224 are blocked (for example, by a large workpiece), such blockage may result in insufficient suction force for dust collection. As a result, the dust is undesirably left above the worktable 220 rather than being drawn out below the central slot 226.

[0021]

[0057] To avoid this problem, the configurations shown in Figures 4 to 6 were considered, in which the airflow created by the vacuum source 212 is further extended to the area inside 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 the suction force below the central slot 226 is insufficient, dust is then drawn out of the blade guard 232 toward the vacuum inlet 233, where it passes through the conduit 235 and subsequently through the filter inside the housing 210.

[0022]

[0058] Next, referring to FIGS. 7-9, a time progression showing an exemplary use of apparatus 200 according to one aspect of the present specification is provided. In particular, FIG. 7 shows a cross-section of apparatus 200 at t = t0, FIG. 8 shows a cross-section of apparatus 200 at t = t1, FIG. 9 shows a cross-section of apparatus 200 at t = t2, where t0 < t1 < t2. As shown, at t = t0, block 270 is disposed on worktable 220 away from circular saw blade 230. At t = t1, worktable 220 is moved towards circular saw blade 230, and this movement generates dust when block 270 contacts circular saw blade 230. Here, since circular saw blade 230 is rotating in a counterclockwise direction and vacuum source 212 (not shown) creates a negative pressure under worktable 220, the trajectory of the dust is substantially downward. As worktable 220 continues to slide further towards circular saw blade 230, thus, at that point, the dust is collected through a particular set of louvers 234 above 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 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 heavy debris chute 215 and louvers 234 is angled to avoid "bouncing back" dust particles through louvers 234. However, in certain embodiments, louvers 234 may be coupled to a lever that uniformly adjusts louvers 234 to have an angle within a particular 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 louvers 234, the revolutions per minute (RPM) of circular saw blade 230, and / or the suction force provided by vacuum source 212.

[0024]

[0060] As previously stated, embodiments disclosed herein provide a system in which dust can be collected through any of a plurality of filters. Here, exemplary paths traversed by dust drawn out through louvers 234 are provided in Figures 8 to 11, for example. As illustrated, heavier debris drawn out through louvers 234 falls into the heavy debris compartment 240 through the heavy debris chute 215, while lighter dust particles are drawn toward the cyclone filter 216. As these lighter dust particles move above the cyclone filter 216, some dust is drawn out and falls into the cyclone particle compartment 250, while finer dust particles continue toward the rotatable filter 217.

[0025]

[0061] In a particular embodiment, the rotatable filter 217 is a cylindrical filter material having a plurality of pleated segments around a cylindrical surface, as shown. The rotatable filter 217 further comprises a filter cleaning flap 218 fixed to a lateral partition wall inside the rotatable filter 217, the filter cleaning flap 218 contacting the pleated segments when the filter cleaning knob is rotated. Furthermore, as the rotatable filter 217 rotates, the filter cleaning flap 218 removes dust from the pleated segments, and the dust falls into the particulate compartment 260.

[0026]

[0062] As shown in the figure, dust may also be drawn out through the vacuum inlet 233. As previously mentioned, the first end of the conduit 235 may be inserted into the vacuum inlet 233, while the other end of the conduit 235 is connected to the vacuum port 218 on the housing 210. Here, if the amount of suction below the central slot 226 is insufficient, dust is drawn out toward the vacuum inlet 233, where it then moves through the conduit 235 and subsequently through the filter in the housing 210.

[0027]

[0063] In another aspect of the present disclosure, an embodiment for minimizing vacuum flow loss is considered. For example, as shown in Figures 12-13, the apparatus 200 may be further configured to include extensions 219 along the airflow path. In such embodiments, the extensions 219 are positioned on each end of the dust collection slot, from which the extensions 219 can communicate with the louvers 224. As the worktable 220 slides toward the circular saw blade 230, the extensions 219 block the preceding set of louvers 224 to minimize vacuum flow loss beneath the worktable 220.

[0028] Exemplary Shredding Saw Embodiment

[0064] Referring next to Figures 14 and 15, schematic diagrams of a shredding saw configuration according to an embodiment disclosed herein are provided. As shown, the shredding saw device 300 comprises a housing 310 coupled to a worktable 320 and a circular saw blade 330, the worktable 320 being configured as a fixed table above the housing 310. In this embodiment, similar to the worktable 220 of the device 200, the worktable 320 has a central slot 326 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 330, as shown. However, here 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 device 300, it should be understood that its components are substantially similar to the corresponding components of the housing 210 of the device 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. During use, this airflow provides negative pressure directly below the central slot 326 so that dust is drawn through the central slot 326 toward the filter and subsequently collected in the dust container 313. In particular, heavier debris drawn through the central slot 326 falls into the dust container 313 through the heavy debris chute 315, while lighter dust particles are attracted toward the cyclone filter 316. As these lighter dust particles move over the cyclone filter 316, some of the dust is drawn into the dust container 313 and falls, while the finer dust particles continue towards the rotatable filter 317.

[0030]

[0066] However, in addition to drawing dust out and dropping it through the central slot 326, the device 300 is configured to draw the dust back towards the scoop 323, as shown. Thus, in these embodiments, the vacuum source 312 provides suction through both the central slot 326 and the scoop 323. For this purpose, the dust drawn out through the scoop 323 moves towards the filter through the vacuum port 318. It should be understood here that the scoop 323 may consist of a brush or finger-like material. A fence 321 may also be included, as shown.

[0031] Exemplary Table Saw Embodiment

[0067] Referring next to Figures 16 and 17, schematic diagrams of a table saw configuration according to an embodiment disclosed herein are provided. As shown, the table saw apparatus 400 includes a housing 410 coupled to a worktable 420 and a circular saw blade 430, the worktable 420 being configured as a fixed table above the housing 410. In this embodiment, similar to the worktable 220 of apparatus 200, the worktable 420 has 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 worktable 420. Furthermore, the circular saw blade 430 and the saw motor 434 are housed in a blade housing 432 below the worktable 420, and as shown, the blade housing 432 is substantially located within the housing 410.

[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 multistage filter comprising 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. During use, this airflow provides negative pressure directly below the central slot 426, as a result, dust is drawn through the central slot 426 toward the filter and then collected in the dust container 413. In particular, heavier debris drawn through the central slot 426 falls into the dust container 413 through the heavy debris chute 415, while lighter dust particles are attracted toward the cyclone filter 416. As these lighter dust particles move over the cyclone filter 416, some of the dust is drawn into the dust container 413 and falls, while the finer dust particles continue towards the rotatable filter 417.

[0033] Exemplary blade cooling configurations

[0069] Next, referring to Figures 18 to 22, schematic diagrams illustrating various blade cooling configurations disclosed herein are provided. For this purpose, it should be understood 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 this specification are provided in Figures 18 and 19, respectively. Here, it should be understood that apparatus 500 is substantially similar to apparatuses 100, 200, 300 and 400 described above, and that the individual components of apparatus 500 are also substantially similar to the individual components of apparatuses 100, 200, 300 and 400. As shown in the figures, apparatus 500 includes a vacuum source 512, a circular saw blade 530, and a worktable 520 having a central slot 526 axially aligned with the circular saw blade 530, where the central slot 526 includes an air passage 527 adjacent to the expected contact point 532 between the circular saw blade 530 and the workpiece 570. Next, the vacuum source 512 is configured to provide a negative pressure 528 concentrated beneath the worktable 520 via the air passage 527.

[0034]

[0070] It has been found that significant cooling of the circular saw blade 530 can be achieved by appropriately positioning the air passage 527 at the expected contact point 532 between the circular saw blade 530 and the workpiece 570. In other words, since the circular saw blade 530 can become very hot at the expected contact point 532 during use, it is particularly desirable to utilize a concentrated negative pressure 528 to cool the circular saw blade 530 at the expected contact point 532.

[0035]

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

[0036]

[0072] However, in this particular embodiment, the worktable 620 is configured to slide toward the circular saw blade 630, and the central slot 626 is provided with a plurality of louvers 624 that individually form an air passage 627. Furthermore, the air passage 627 changes sequentially depending on which of the plurality of louvers 624 is in proximity to the expected contact point 632 as the worktable 620 slides toward the circular saw blade 630.

[0037]

[0073] In one aspect of this disclosure, it was found that the magnitude of the concentrated negative pressure 628 is inversely proportional to the opening size of the air passage 627. Therefore, the magnitude of the concentrated negative pressure 628 is increased by reducing the size of the gap between the individual louvers 624. It is considered that removable louver inserts of various sizes may be used to switch this magnitude. For example, Figure 21 shows various embodiments of exemplary louver inserts according to one aspect of this specification. As shown in example 700, the gap 625 between the louvers 624 is reduced by placing an insert 680 on top of the louvers 624. 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 showing a worktable 620 without the insert 680, and example 720 showing a worktable 620 with the insert 680. As shown, in addition to the reduction in the size of the gap 625, the specific gap corresponding to the air passage 627 is also reduced in size by using the insert 680. Thus, the concentrated negative pressure 628 in the air passage 627 in example 720 is greater than the concentrated negative pressure 628 in the air passage 627 in example 710.

[0039]

[0075] In a further embodiment of this disclosure, it has been found that circular saw blades are prone to overheating if they are not stabilized. Therefore, various embodiments of stabilizing the circular saw blade to minimize wobble during use are considered. In certain embodiments considered, a blade stabilizing roller is coupled to the circular saw blade, as shown in Figure 22. In these embodiments, the circular saw blade 830 is housed in a blade guard 832 and coupled to an arbor shaft 830 and a blade stabilizing roller 835, as shown. During use, the arbor shaft 830 begins to rotate, and this rotation causes the circular saw blade 830 to rotate. When the circular saw blade 830 contacts the workpiece, the blade stabilizing roller 835 keeps the circular saw blade 830 firmly aligned while still allowing the circular saw blade 830 to rotate. Therefore, the circular saw blade 830 is more stable and less susceptible to wobble, and thus less likely to overheat.

[0040] Exemplary multi-stage filter configuration

[0076] As described above, various embodiments for the use of multistage filters, such as the apparatus 200 described above, are considered. In a particular embodiment, an apparatus is disclosed that includes a housing comprising a vacuum source and a multistage filter. This apparatus further includes a circular saw blade and a worktable having a central slot axially aligned with the circular saw blade. Here, the vacuum source is configured to provide negative pressure below the worktable at the central slot, and the multistage filter is configured to collect airborne dust drawn out by the negative pressure from an area adjacent to the central slot.

[0041]

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

[0042] Exemplary form of an auxiliary port

[0078] As described above, various embodiments directed toward the use of auxiliary ports, such as the apparatus 200 described above, are considered. In a particular embodiment, an apparatus comprising a vacuum source, a circular saw blade, and a worktable is disclosed. In this embodiment, the worktable 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 worktable at the central slot. The vacuum source is further configured to provide a second negative pressure through an auxiliary port.

[0043]

[0079] In some configurations, it may be desirable to divert dust through an alternative dust path. For example, Figure 30 provides a schematic diagram of an exemplary dust diversion path for blade guards according to one aspect of this specification. Here, three cyclone filters 1116 are used exclusively to receive dust collected in the central slot 1126, while a fourth cyclone filter 1117 is used exclusively to collect dust from the upper blade guard 1132 through the support arm 1136. This allows for a constant vacuum to be supplied to this back side of the blades as needed.

[0044] Exemplary embodiment of a shared dust tray

[0080] Various embodiments disclosed herein are directed toward a portable electronic dust extractor configured for extracting heavy dust (e.g., capable of removing 50 pounds of dust in 30 seconds). In the first embodiment, the portable electronic dust extractor may be equipped with a multi-stage filter, and each of the filter chambers is considered to be coupled to a shared dust containment area. Thus, unlike conventional multi-stage filters in which each filter chamber has 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 embodiment, a movable barrier is positioned between at least one multi-stage filter chamber and a shared dust containment area. In certain embodiments, the movable barrier is considered to be positioned between the shared dust containment area and a filter chamber corresponding to a cylindrical filter. During operation of the dust extractor, the movable barrier is closed to facilitate airflow, and the closed movable barrier isolates the cylindrical filter from the shareable dust containment area. However, when operation is stopped, the movable barrier is considered to function as a swing door for the dust collected by the cylindrical filter. For this purpose, it is further considered that the swing door may be automated to open and close automatically depending on whether the dust extractor is being operated.

[0046]

[0082] Figure 31 provides a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus that facilitates the storage of airborne dust collected by a multistage filtration system in a shared dust containment area according to one embodiment of this specification. It should be understood that apparatus 1200 is substantially similar to apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1. As illustrated, apparatus 1200 may comprise a housing 1210 and a work area 1250, the housing 1210 further comprising a vacuum source 1220, a multistage filter 1230, and a shared dust tray 1240. In exemplary use of apparatus 1200, the vacuum source 1220 is configured to provide negative pressure that draws airborne dust from the work area 1250 toward the multistage filter 1230. In this embodiment, the shared dust tray 1240 is considered to include a shared dust containment area, which is a single compartment configured to receive airborne dust collected by the multistage filter 1230 directly from each of the multiple stages of the multistage filter 1230.

[0047]

[0083] Referring next to Figure 32, a conceptual diagram of an exemplary multistage filtration system coupled to a shared dust containment area according to one aspect of this specification is provided. As shown, a scenario 1300 is considered in which the multistage filter 1230 comprises several stages 1232, 1234, 1236, and 1238. In this example, dust particles are attracted toward each of the stages 1232, 1234, 1236, and 1238, and the shared dust containment area 1242 is configured to receive the airborne dust collected by the multistage filter 1230 directly from each of the stages 1232, 1234, 1236, and 1238, as shown.

[0048]

[0084] It should be noted that using a shared dust containment area 1242, rather than a partitioned dust tray (e.g., dust tray 900 including dust compartments 910, 920, and 930), requires more power to generate the same airflow. Therefore, to emulate the partitioned operation of the multistage filter 1230, it is considered that each of the multiple stages 1232, 1234, 1236, and 1238 may include a barrier, as shown in Figures 33 and 34.

[0049]

[0085] Figure 33 provides a conceptual diagram of an exemplary multistage filtration system having closed movable barriers according to one aspect of this specification. As shown, each of the multiple stages 1232, 1234, 1236, and 1238 has corresponding movable barriers 1233, 1235, 1237, and 1239. In this scenario 1400, while the vacuum source 1220 is in “operation” mode, it is considered that each of the movable barriers 1233, 1235, 1237, and 1239 is closed, as shown. Since each of the movable barriers 1233, 1235, 1237, and 1239 is closed, the airflow level 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 accumulate on each of the movable barriers 1233, 1235, 1237, and 1239. When operation stops (i.e., when the vacuum source 1220 is in "idling" mode), it is considered that each of the movable barriers 1233, 1235, 1237, and 1239 will open, allowing the accumulated dust to move into the shared dust containment area below. An example of such a scenario 1500 is provided in Figure 34.

[0051]

[0087] Referring next to Figure 35, a schematic diagram of an exemplary dust tray having a shared dust compartment according to one aspect of this specification is provided. As shown, unlike the compartmentalized structure of dust tray 900, the shared dust tray 1300 shown in Figure 35 includes a shared dust compartment 1310. Furthermore, it is considered 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 apparatus shown in Figures 36 and 37.

[0052]

[0088] Figure 36 provides a schematic diagram of an exemplary multistage filter device that is substantially similar to the saw device 200 illustrated in Figures 2 to 13. In this scenario 1600, it is considered that the multiple stages of the multistage filter device 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 particulate matter 1360. During operation, it is considered that each of the heavy debris 1340 and cyclone particles 1350 accumulates in a shared dust compartment 1310 of a 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 the operation stops, the movable barrier 1370 opens, as shown by scenario 1700 illustrated in Figure 37, which allows the particulate matter 1360 to move into the shared dust compartment 1310 below. The particulate matter 1360 in the rotatable filter 1317 can also be removed by rotating the rotatable filter 1317 to bring the pleated segments of the rotatable filter 1317 into continuous contact with the flap 1318 (which is substantially the same as the filter cleaning flap 218). Furthermore, as the rotatable filter 1317 rotates, the flap 1318 removes the particulate matter 1360 that falls into the shared dust compartment 1310 from the pleated segments.

[0053] Exemplary filter protection embodiment

[0089] In further embodiments, since the embodiments disclosed herein may be configured for the extraction of heavy dust, various filter protection mechanisms are considered. For example, with respect to the cylindrical filters described above (e.g., the rotatable filter 1317), high-speed impacts of dust on such filters are expected to cause significant wear and tear.

[0054]

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

[0055]

[0091] Alternatively or in addition, a mesh (e.g., an aluminum mesh) may be positioned upstream of the rotatable filter 1417 to slow down dust approaching the rotatable filter 1417. Figure 39 provides a schematic diagram of an exemplary filter protection design including such a mesh. In this particular embodiment 1900, as shown, the inlet 1420 is considered to include a mesh 1430 positioned between the rotatable filter 1417 and the flow of particulate matter 1460, wherein the mesh 1430 is configured to reduce the dust velocity of at least a portion of the particulate matter 1460.

[0056]

[0092] The term “exemplary” is used herein to mean an example, illustration, or representation. To avoid doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. Furthermore, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” should not necessarily be construed as being preferable or advantageous to other aspects or designs, nor should it be meant to exclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, to avoid doubt, the terms “include,” “have,” “contain,” and other similar words are intended to be as comprehensive as the term “equip,” as an open transition word, without excluding additional or other elements, insofar as they are used in either the detailed description or the claims.

[0057]

[0093] The aforementioned systems have been described in relation to the interactions between several components. It can be understood that such systems and components may include those components or identified sub-components, some of the identified components or sub-components, and / or additional components, according to the various permutations and combinations described herein. Sub-components may also be implemented as components combined with other components, rather than being contained within a parent component (hierarchy). Furthermore, it should be noted that one or more components may be combined into a single component that provides an aggregation function, or may be divided into several distinct sub-components, and any one or more intermediate layers may be provided to combine with such sub-components to provide an integrated function. Any component described herein may interact with one or more other components that are not specifically described herein but are generally known to those skilled in the art.

[0058]

[0094] Considering the exemplary system described above, the methodology that may be implemented in accordance with the disclosed subject matter can be understood by referring to various figures. For the sake of simplicity, the methodology is described as a series of steps, but it should be understood and recognized that the disclosed subject matter is not limited by the order of the 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 of the disclosed steps are required to implement the methodology described below.

[0059]

[0095] While various embodiments have been described in relation to the various illustrative embodiments shown in the figures, it should be understood that other similar embodiments may be used, or that modifications and additions may be made to the described embodiments to perform the same function without departing therefrom. Therefore, the present invention should not be limited to any single embodiment.

Claims

1. In a dust collection device, Rotatable filter, A filter housing configured to house the rotatable filter, wherein the filter housing has an outer housing wall and defines a loop between the rotatable filter and the outer housing wall, The filter housing comprises an inlet connected to the filter housing, configured to receive a flow of airborne dust drawn out by negative pressure, The inlet is positioned and oriented such that the flow of airborne dust is directed towards the loop before the airborne dust enters the rotatable filter, and the inlet is configured to reduce the airborne dust from colliding with the rotatable filter at high speed by guiding the airborne dust to flow through the loop around the rotatable filter. The dust collection device further includes a mesh at the end of the inlet where the dust transitions from the inlet to the filter housing, and the mesh is configured to reduce the velocity of at least a portion of the airborne dust. A dust collection device characterized in that the mesh reduces the velocity of the airborne dust and the airborne dust flows through the loop around the rotatable filter, thereby protecting the airborne dust from colliding with and damaging the rotatable filter at high speed.

2. The dust collection device according to claim 1, wherein the rotatable filter and the filter housing are cylindrical and arranged concentrically, with an annular space defined between them.

3. The dust collection device according to claim 1, wherein the mesh has openings configured to allow airborne dust to pass through, and reduces the velocity of the airborne dust before it enters the loop around the rotatable filter.

4. The dust collection device according to claim 1, wherein the rotatable filter is configured to rotate around a central longitudinal axis within the filter housing during operation, and a loop-shaped path extending around the rotatable filter, to which the airborne dust travels before entering the rotatable filter, extends at least 90 degrees around the rotatable filter between the inlet and the rotatable filter.

5. The dust collection device according to claim 1, wherein the inlet is positioned tangentially to the outer housing wall to form a loop-shaped path, and the loop-shaped path moves the airborne dust in a circular pattern along the outer housing wall around the rotatable filter before the airborne dust passes from the outer surface to the inner surface of the rotatable filter.

6. The dust collection device according to claim 1, wherein the mesh is attached independently and detachably from the entrance for cleaning and replacement.

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