A tool, a system and a method for cutting

Abstract

A cutting tool (1) for cutting a kerf (92) into a material (9), the cutting tool (1) comprising: - a cutting blade (3); - a drive mechanism (2) for rotating the cutting blade (3) around a blade axis (32); - an arm (6) for connecting the cutting tool (1) with a power and control unit (12), the arm (6) forming an arm axis (62), characterised in that: - the drive mechanism (2) comprises an input portion (22) and an output portion (26), the input portion (22) being guided through, connected to or forming a part of the arm (6) and the output portion (26) being rigidly connected to the cutting blade (3); - the arm (6) is adapted to connect a power source from the power and control unit (12) to the drive mechanism (2); and - when in use, the cutting tool (1) and the arm (6) is adapted to rotate the cutting blade (3) and the drive mechanism (2) around the arm axis (62) while the cutting blade (3) cuts the kerf (92).

Description

[0001] A TOOL, A SYSTEM AND A METHOD FOR CUTTING

[0002] The disclosure relates to cutting a kerf into a material. More specifically, the disclosure relates to a cutting tool for cutting a kerf into the material, where the cutting tool comprises a cutting blade, a drive mechanism for rotating the cutting blade around a blade axis and an arm for connecting the cutting tool with a power and control unit. The disclosure also relates to a cutting system for cutting a kerf into a material, the cutting system comprising the power and control unit and the cutting tool. Methods for cutting the kerf are also disclosed.

[0003] In the process of cutting a kerf into a material, a rotating blade is typically employed. Multiple kerfs may be made to facilitate the removal of a block of material, thereby creating an opening. This technique is applicable to various materials, such as concrete walls, where it might be necessary to create an opening through the structure. For instance, this may be for the installation of a door or window. In the context of rock formations, it might be desirable to remove a portion of the rock to create an opening, which may serve as a conduit for cables or water, a tunnel for traffic lanes, or a cleared area in preparation for construction work. In the marble mining industry, it is common practice to create large slabs or blocks of marble for further refinement. A common objective across all these applications is to create kerfs that are sufficiently deep and strategically positioned to minimize waste and reduce the need for further refinement of the finished product.

[0004] To enhance the depth of a kerf, one approach is to augment the diameter of the cutting blade. However, the mechanism for rotating the blade is typically affixed to its center, thereby limiting the kerf's depth to less than half the blade's diameter. If the kerf's depth is substantial relative to its length along the material's face, it may be unfeasible to form the kerf without cutting into the material beyond the intended position of the kerf. Moreover, operating an excessively large cutting blade at high speed is not advisable from a health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standpoint, in addition to the increased forces and space necessitated by a larger cutting blade compared to a smaller one. Larger cutting blades also require a higher degree of alignment with the kerf to prevent the cutting blade from being pinched or abraded against the interior surface of the already cut kerf.

[0005] US4717205, US2002174913, and GB254282 disclose embodiments to overcome the limitations associated with a rotation mechanism of the cutting blade, which restricts the depth of the kerf to less than half the blade's diameter. A common feature in these disclosures is the presence of a cutting blade on each side of the rotation mechanism. This configuration results in the creation of two kerfs with a central portion in between. The central portion is dislodged either by vibrations created by the cutting blade or by a device specifically designed to break it. Subsequently, this central portion follows the cutting blade out of the kerf, thereby posing a HSE risk.

[0006] When it comes to removing a portion of a rock formation, explosives or drilling machines are typically employed. The use of explosives or drilling machine, however, converts all the removed material into landfill. In instances where a landfill is not required near the rock formation, the removed material may become waste, incurring costs for transportation to a distant location. The remaining edges after the removal of the portion of the rock formation may be unpredictable and may necessitate further refinement, as is often the case in tunneling or on construction sites. In certain scenarios, the use of explosives may not be desirable or feasible.

[0007] Patent documents US4838615, US2390562, and KR20230045160 disclose methods for removing rock or mineral formations, such as in coal mining, to create a tunnel by cutting blocks of material. However, the size of the blocks that may be removed is constrained by the dimensions of the cutting blade and the mechanism used to rotate it. Consequently, the size of the removable block is relatively small compared to the cutting blade.

[0008] The invention has for its object to remedy or to reduce at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art, or at least provide a useful alternative to prior art. The object is achieved through features, which are specified in the description below and in the claims that follow.

[0009] The disclosure is defined by the independent patent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments of the disclosure.

[0010] In a first aspect the disclosure relates more particularly to a cutting tool for cutting a kerf into a material, the cutting tool comprising:

[0011] - a cutting blade;

[0012] - a drive mechanism for rotating the cutting blade around a blade axis;

[0013] - an arm for connecting the cutting tool with a power and control unit, the arm forming an arm axis, wherein:

[0014] - the drive mechanism comprises an input portion and an output portion, the input portion being guided through, connected to or forming a part of the arm and the output portion being rigidly connected to the cutting blade;

[0015] - the arm is adapted to connect a power source from the power and control unit to the drive mechanism; and

[0016] - when in use, the cutting tool and the arm are adapted to rotate the cutting blade and the drive mechanism around the arm axis while the cutting blade cuts the kerf.

[0017] The cutting tool may be used for creating the kerf into a variety of materials by choosing an appropriate cutting blade based on the material. The cutting blade may be defined as a disk comprising elements designed to remove material to form the kerf. A process of removing material to create the kerf may be accomplished through cutting, grinding, ripping, or any other suitable method known in the art. The elements may include inserts comprising exposable diamonds, carbide inserts forming cutting teeth, tungsten carbide teeth, and any other suitable elements known in the art for cutting a kerf. The art of cutting a kerf using a rotatable disk is well-established, and the aforementioned examples merely illustrate potential embodiments of the cutting blade.

[0018] The cutting blade may comprise a radial cutting surface facing away from the blade axis. Alternatively, or in addition, the cutting blade may comprise a lateral cutting surface facing along the blade axis. Consequently, the cutting blade may have different embodi- merits depending on the material. The material where the kerf is to be cut may be a concrete wall or block, a steel structure, a plastic structure, a rock formation or a mineral formation (e.g., marble, coal or any other lithology), or any other material where it is desirable to remove a portion, divide the material, or cut a kerf into it.

[0019] When the cutting tool is in use, the arm is adapted to rotate both the cutting blade and the drive mechanism around the arm axis while the cutting blade cuts the kerf. This allows the cutting tool to cut a kerf that is wider than the cutting blade itself. As a result, the kerf may be cut wide enough to allow the drive mechanism and a portion of the arm to enter it. This may also enable the cutting tool to cut the kerf along a curved path, a capability that is contrary to all known art. Methods for cutting a wide or curved kerf will be described in the following Another advantage of the cutting tool's ability to cut the kerf wider than a width of the cutting blade is that only cuttings created by the cutting blade exit the kerf. This reduces any potential HSE hazards associated with larger pieces exiting the kerf. Consequently, the depth of the kerf is not limited by the blade's diameter, but rather by the length of the arm.

[0020] In one embodiment, the arm may comprise a proximal portion adapted to connect to the power and control unit, and a distal portion that comprises the drive mechanism. The arm may be adapted to rotate the distal portion relative to the proximal portion around the arm axis. This rotation may be facilitated by a powered swivel, a hydraulic cylinder, a motor connected to gears, or any other suitable means known in the art for rotating the distal portion relative to the proximal portion.

[0021] In one embodiment, the arm may be adapted to transmit a torsional force from the power and control unit to the cutting blade. For instance, the arm may be a rigid member that the power and control unit is adapted to rotate.

[0022] While a cutting blade is typically robust in transferring radial forces, it may be less effective in transferring lateral forces relative to a plane of rotation of the cutting blade. Here, the radial and lateral forces refer to the forces exchanged between the kerf and the cutting tool. As previously mentioned, the cutting tool is adapted to rotate the cutting blade around the arm axis while cutting the kerf. This may be achieved by selecting a cutting blade with sufficient strength to transfer the lateral forces expected during a specific operation. These lateral forces depend on the material being cut and the embodiment of the cutting blade.

[0023] Additionally, the cutting tool may comprise sensors to measure the forces transferred by the cutting blade to the kerf being cut. Other sensors, such as a sensor for measuring the rotational speed (RPM) of the cutting blade, may also be included for enhanced control. Examples of force-measuring sensors include strain gauges, torsion gauges, or any other suitable sensors. These sensors may be connected to or associated with the arm or the drive mechanism.

[0024] The rotational speed sensor may provide further information about the strain in the cutting blade by comparing the rotational speed of the cutting blade to the power supplied to it. The rotational speed sensor may be a Hall sensor, an inductive sensor, a rotational register sensor, or any other suitable sensor.

[0025] An extent of the adaptation of the cutting tool and the arm may be performed by a skilled person in the art once the material to be cut and the operational parameters are known. For instance, minor adaptations may be necessary when cutting into a plastic or coal formation compared to cutting into a rock formation, such as granite, or into a steel structure.

[0026] The drive mechanism may be adapted to connect to the power and control unit. More specifically, the input portion and / or the output portion may be adapted to connect to the power and control unit.

[0027] The input portion may be adapted to connect to the power and control unit via a power transfer means, enabling it to receive power. An embodiment of the power transfer means is contingent upon the type of power being utilized, whether it is a motive fluid, electrical power, rotational force, or a combination. The power transfer means may be a conduit or a hose for the motive fluid, an electric wire for electrical power, a rotating shaft for rotational force, or a combination. The arm may comprise the conduit, connecting a power source from the power and control unit to the drive mechanism, e.g., the input portion. This power source may be a motive fluid, an electric current, a rotating shaft, or a combination of these. The specific usage of these power sources will be detailed later in the description.

[0028] The drive mechanism, which comprises the input portion and the output portion, is adapted to rotate the cutting blade around the blade axis. The drive mechanism may be adapted to enter the kerf. The drive mechanism may be symmetrically arranged in relation to the blade axis, extending equally on each side of the cutting blade. The symmetrical arrangement simplifies calculations when determining the required blade angles for cutting the kerf. It also allows the cutting blade to be positioned at a center of the kerf when the cutting blade is aligned parallel to the kerf. In one embodiment, the arm axis may align and coincide with the plane of rotation for the cutting blade, resulting in a compact design of the cutting tool. This design requires a smaller kerf compared to an asymmetrical arrangement or an embodiment where the arm axis is offset from the plane of rotation.

[0029] Other embodiments of the symmetrical arrangement will be described in the following.

[0030] Furthermore, the drive mechanism may be designed such that cuttings may be easily transported out of the kerf with minimal interference from the drive mechanism. This may be achieved by concentrating the main parts of the drive mechanism close to the blade axis, with portions of the drive mechanism and the arm that are laterally positioned from the arm axis being tapered off. This design provides fewer restrictions for cuttings to escape the kerf when the drive mechanism is inside the kerf.

[0031] Additionally, providing the cutting tool with a drive mechanism with the compact design enables the width of the kerf to be small compared to a scenario where the drive mechanism is large and is to enter the kerf. The compact design reduces the time required to cut the kerf and also decreases wear on the equipment, such as the cutting blade, bearings, actuators, etc. As a result, it provides an economically and time-efficient cutting tool for cutting the kerf. In some embodiments, the cutting tool may be adapted to cut the kerf with a depth that is significantly greater than the diameter of the cutting blade. Consequently, supplying the drive mechanism with energy to convert into rotational energy for the cutting blade may be challenging. This is due to the fact that this energy may need to traverse a considerable distance into the kerf before reaching the drive mechanism. Designing a reliable rotating shaft, moving chain, guided wires, or hoses within the kerf may be difficult, as these components may interfere with the cuttings produced by the cutting blade. When in use, the drive mechanism may transform kinetic energy from a motive fluid or an electric energy from a wire into rotational energy in the cutting blade. In one embodiment, the input portion may comprise a nozzle, and the output portion may comprise a turbine. This configuration results in a compact design for the drive mechanism, which is desirable, as previously mentioned, if the drive mechanism is to enter into the kerf. The nozzle may be an integral part of the arm or connected to it in such a way its outlet is oriented towards the turbine.

[0032] The turbine may be at least one of an impulse turbine and a reaction turbine connected to a face of the cutting blade. This configuration may reduce the number of components in the drive mechanism, contributing to its compact design. In one embodiment, the face may be arranged as a radial surface extending along the blade axis, possibly in parallel. The face may be oriented facing towards or away from the blade axis. The face may be arranged perpendicularly to the blade axis, i.e. facing in the direction along the blade axis. The face may also be located on a lateral side of the cutting blade, arranged in parallel to the plane of rotation and facing away from the cutting blade. The turbine may be designed such that a plurality of turbine buckets or turbine blades extend further in the radial direction from the blade axis compared to the direction along the blade axis. This arrangement further enhances the compact design of the drive mechanism.

[0033] The impulse turbine may be akin to a Pelton turbine or a Turgo turbine. The reaction turbine may be akin to a Francis turbine. These turbines further enhance the compact design of the drive mechanism. The cutting tool may be configured to guide a motive fluid towards a cutting area, the motive fluid may be used to rotate the cutting blade via the turbine and the cutting area is a contact area between the cutting blade and a portion of the kerf being cut, when the cutting tool is in use. This configuration may allow the motive fluid to serve multiple purposes: it may rotate the cutting blade, cool both the blade and the material being cut, and flush the cutting area. Cooling the material being cut may be particularly beneficial when cutting materials such as steel or plastic, as it helps to keep the blade temperature low, thereby extending its lifespan. It further reduces thermal strain in the material. Flushing the cutting area ensures that the cutting blade only comes into contact with uncut material, reducing unnecessary wear. The motive fluid may be a pressurized gas, a liquid or a combination.

[0034] The cutting blade may comprise two turbines, one turbine on each side of the cutting blade. This configuration may potentially double the output of the cutting blade with only a minimal increase in the size of the drive mechanism. Moreover, the cooling and flushing of the cutting area may be symmetrical, leading to increased efficiency.

[0035] In one embodiment, each turbine may rotate the cutting blade in opposite directions. This design would require two nozzles, each adapted for its respective turbine. The ability to rotate the cutting blade in both directions may result in a more efficient cutting tool when cutting the kerf. Further details about this feature will be provided in the following.

[0036] In certain operations, such as indoor cutting, it may be desirable to reduce the amount of fluid exiting the kerf. In one embodiment, the input portion may comprise an electric stator and the output portion may comprise a rotor. The drive mechanism may in this embodiment comprise an electric motor. The electric motor may be an outrunner motor, an inrunner motor, or any other suitable type. The outrunner motor might be preferred in certain embodiments as it may be constructed to be narrower along the blade axis, further enhancing the compact design of the drive mechanism.

[0037] The drive mechanism may comprise a right angle gearbox, where the input portion is an input gear and the output portion is an output gear. This arrangement allows rotational power for the cutting blade to be created externally from the drive mechanism, reducing design constraints related to space for the power generation means. The power generation means may be a hydraulic motor, an electric motor, a combustion motor, or any other suitable means.

[0038] In embodiments that use the electric motor or the right-angle gearbox to provide rotational power to the cutting blade, a fluid nozzle may be present to guide a cleaning and cooling fluid into the cutting area.

[0039] The drive mechanism may be designed to be compact in size such that it may fit into the kerf. In one embodiment, the input portion may comprise at least one of the nozzle, electric stator and the input gear and the output portion may comprise at least one of the turbine, the rotor, and the output gear. By combining different devices to provide the cutting blade with rotational power, the cutting blade may receive more power without exceeding a specific input limit. The specific input limit may be related to a restricted amount of motive fluid, an electric current, or torsional power through the gearbox.

[0040] In one embodiment, the output portion may be adapted to connect to the power and control unit via a return line. The return line may be adapted to redirect either all or a portion of the motive fluid back to the power and control unit, a feature that is particularly useful when the drive mechanism is a hydraulic motor. The workings of the hydraulic motor are well established in the art and hence, will not be elaborated further. The cutting tool may comprise two or more cutting blades. Each blade may be connected to a single drive mechanism, or alternatively, each cutting blade may be connected to its own respective drive mechanism. The cutting blades may be arranged such that their planes of rotation are parallel, or they may form an angle between them. Each cutting blade may be arranged to have a specific cutting area, allowing for faster cutting of the kerf. These specific cutting areas may be positioned with a lateral distance between them relative to the arm axis, an axial distance between them along the arm axis, or a combination. In an embodiment with two cutting blades, the symmetrical arrangement of the drive mecha- nism(s) along the blade axis and in relation to the cutting blade may mean that each cutting blade is positioned on either side of the drive mechanism(s). In an embodiment with three cutting blades, one cutting blade may be positioned centrally, with one cutting blade positioned laterally on each side. The drive mechanism(s) may be symmetrically positioned between the three cutting blades, thereby providing the symmetrical arrangement. In an embodiment with more than one cutting blade, the arm axis may be aligned with or be positioned symmetrically in relation to the planes of rotation of the cutting blades. For instance, in an embodiment with two cutting blades, the arm axis may be positioned between the two blades. In an embodiment with three cutting blades, the arm axis may be aligned and coincide with the plane of rotation of a centrally positioned cutting blade.

[0041] In a second aspect the disclosure relates more particularly to a cutting system for cutting a kerf into a material, the cutting system comprising a power and control unit and a cutting tool, wherein:

[0042] - the cutting tool is according to the first aspect of this disclosure and is connected to the power and control unit via an arm;

[0043] - when in use and cutting the kerf, the cutting system is adapted to configure a blade angle relative to the kerf being cut, the blade angle being defined by an angle between the blade axis and a line perpendicular to the kerf being cut.

[0044] The material in which the kerf is to be cut may be as disclosed in relation to the first aspect of the disclosure.

[0045] The blade angle may be adjusted between a positive blade angle and a negative blade angle. A neutral blade angle may be defined as when a plane of rotation of the cutting blade is parallel to a portion of the kerf adjacent to the cutting tool, i.e., the blade axis is perpendicular to the kerf. In a kerf along a curved path, the neutral blade angle may be defined as when the plane of rotation aligns parallelly with a tangent line of the curved path that is adjacent to the cutting blade. The positive and negative blade angles may be adjusted from the neutral blade angle to an angle between 2 degrees and 40 degrees, preferably between 5 degrees and 30 degrees, and even more preferably between 5 degrees and 10 degrees. In one embodiment, the positive blade angle may be set to 30 degrees, and the negative blade angle may set to -30 degrees. Consequently, the cutting blade, i.e., the blade axis, undergoes a total angular movement of 60 degrees, transition- ing from the positive to the negative blade angle. Depending on the embodiment of the cutting tool, the positive and negative blade angles may have equal or unequal numeric values, one being a positive value and the other a negative value in relation to the neutral blade angle.

[0046] The power and control unit may supply power to the cutting tool. In addition, it may facilitate at least one of a movement of the cutting tool (e.g., translation and / or rotational movement of the arm), a monitoring of the cutting tool's performance, and a monitoring and control of the progress of cutting the kerf.

[0047] The power and control unit may be a single unit. Alternatively, it may be distributed comprising of a plurality of individual components performing the functions of the power and control unit. For example, a first module may provide power to the cutting tool, a second module may facilitate movement, a third module may handle computations, etc.

[0048] As outlined above under the first aspect of the disclosure, the cutting tool comprises a drive mechanism adapted to rotate a cutting blade around a blade axis. The drive mechanism may come in various embodiments. The power and control unit may comprise a means for supplying the drive mechanism, e.g., a power transfer means as described in the first aspect of the disclosure, with a power source to rotate the cutting blade. This power source may be a motive fluid, electric power, a rotating shaft, or any other suitable means for providing rotational force to the cutting blade.

[0049] The means for supplying the drive mechanism, e.g., the input portion, with power may be through or in relation to the arm that connects the power and control unit with the cutting tool. The arm may comprise a conduit, allowing the motive fluid to be pumped from the power and control unit to the drive mechanism, e.g., such as when the input portion comprises a nozzle. In another embodiment, the conduit may house an electric wire to supply the drive mechanism, e.g., such as when the input portion comprises a stator, with electric power. In one embodiment, the conduit may house a rotating shaft to supply rotational force to the drive mechanism, e.g., such as when the input portion comprises a gearbox. Alternatively, the conduit may house at least one of the motive fluid, the electric wire, and the rotating shaft. The means for supplying the drive mechanism, e.g., the input portion, with the power source may alternatively be via an external member, such as a hose or a wire member connected either to the arm or directly to the drive mechanism.

[0050] As previously mentioned, the cutting system is designed to adjust or configure the blade angle relative to the kerf being cut. The cutting system may comprise a means for limiting the movement of the cutting tool within the kerf in relation to a cutting force, which is defined as any force between the kerf being cut and the cutting blade. This may be achieved in various ways.

[0051] For instance, in a hydraulically controlled and operated cutting system, the means for limiting movement may be sequence valves, restrictors, pressure relief valves, PID control loops, or any other suitable means. Consequently, the movement of the cutting blade may be restricted when the cutting force reaches or exceeds a predetermined cutting limit. The predetermined cutting limit represents a maximum force between the cutting blade and the kerf and may be determined by the characteristics of both the cutting blade and the material being cut.

[0052] In one embodiment, the cutting tool may comprise sensors for monitoring the cutting force. The data from these sensors may be sent to the power and control unit for processing, thereby limiting the movement of the cutting tool based on the data. Various types of suitable sensors have been disclosed in relation to the first aspect of the disclosure.

[0053] In an embodiment where the cutting system may be electrically controlled and operated, the movement of the cutting tool and the rotation of the cutting blade may be facilitated by electric motors. The means for limiting movement in this scenario may include PID control loops, stepper motors, or other suitable means.

[0054] In some embodiments, the cutting system may be controlled and operated using a combination of hydraulic and electric motors. In such cases, a combination of the aforementioned means for limiting movement may be employed. The means for limiting movement may be located within the cutting tool, within the power and control unit, or it may be distributed between the two.

[0055] The power and control unit may be adapted to rotate at least a portion of the arm around the arm axis.

[0056] The cutting system may be adapted to move the arm in at least one of a lateral direction relative to the direction of the arm axis and a direction along the arm axis.

[0057] In one embodiment, as previously mentioned in relation to the first aspect of the disclosure, the arm may comprise a proximal portion adapted to connect to the power and control unit, and a distal portion that comprises the drive mechanism. The arm may be adapted to rotate the distal portion relative to the proximal portion around the arm axis. This may be achieved using a powered swivel, a hydraulic cylinder, a motor connected to gears, or any other suitable means.

[0058] The arm may also be adapted to move the distal portion relative to the proximal position, in the direction along the arm axis and in the lateral direction relative to the arm axis. This may be accomplished using hydraulic cylinders, electric motors and screw drives, a combination of these, or any other suitable means. Having control and actuation mechanisms inside the arm has the advantage of reducing the distance between the cutting blade and the means for limiting movement, thereby improving accuracy.

[0059] In another embodiment, the arm may be a rigid member that transfers any rotational movement around the arm axis from the power and control unit to the cutting tool, i.e., the drive mechanism and the cutting blade. The power and control unit may comprise a powered swivel, an electric motor, or a cylinder adapted to rotate the arm around the arm axis. The power and control unit may, alternatively or additionally, comprise means for moving the cutting tool in the lateral direction relative to the direction of the arm axis and / or in the direction along the arm axis. This may be achieved using hydraulic cylinders, electric motors and screw drives, a combination of these, or any other suitable means.

[0060] Having the means for actuating the rotational and / or translational movement of the arm in the power and control unit may reduce the complexity and size of the arm that may be adapted to enter the kerf.

[0061] The cutting system, when in use and cutting the kerf, may be adapted to vary the blade angle by rotating the cutting tool around the arm axis between the positive blade angle and the negative blade angle in an oscillating pattern, the positive blade angle and the negative blade angle being defined relative to the kerf being cut. The oscillating pattern may be controlled by the means for limiting movement of the cutting tool such that the cutting force does not exceed the predetermined cutting limit. The oscillating pattern allows the cutting tool to cut small increments in the lateral direction relative to the arm axis while the blade angle varies, enabling each cutting sequence's depth of cut in the kerf to be equal to the radius of the cutting blade. One cutting sequence may be defined as a movement of the cutting tool to increase the depth of the kerf along the kerf. The kerf may be cut with a series of these cutting sequences to achieve the desired depth of the kerf. When cutting the kerf along a curved path, the oscillating pattern may adapt the blade angle as the cutting tool moves or translates along the curved path. The power and control unit may calculate the appropriate blade angle relative to the kerf being cut to minimize the risk of inadvertent damage or jamming of the cutting blade due to human error.

[0062] The cutting system may be used to cut blocks of material from the material where the kerf is cut, reducing waste as these blocks may be repurposed rather than discarded. To increase efficiency, reduce waste, and minimize the need for refining the blocks and the material being cut, it may be desirable for the cutting system to cut the kerf in a predetermined pattern. The cutting system may be adapted to move the cutting tool in a predetermined cutting pattern to cut a block of material from the material. This predetermined pattern may be adapted for a specific operation. For example, in one embodiment, the predetermined pattern may involve a plurality of vertical kerfs intersecting a series of horizontal kerfs. In another embodiment, the pattern may include a first kerf along a curved path intersecting a second straight kerf. If the specific operation involves creating a tunnel for traffic lanes, the predetermined pattern may include the upper curvature of the tunnel, minimizing the need for refining the tunnel wall compared to using explosives. The material removed from the tunnel may be cut into blocks that may be used to build support walls along the traffic lanes before entering the tunnel. For applications where a construction site needs to be cleared, such as when a rock formation needs to be removed to create a foundation, blocks may be cut from the rock formation. Little refinement may be required as the rock formation may be cut with a surface adapted for the construction site. The blocks may be used for support walls or as decorative and functional elements such as benches, traffic lane dividers, curbstones, etc., on the construction site. The cutting system may use a satellite navigation system, a range-finding system, or other suitable systems when cutting the predetermined pattern.

[0063] As mentioned above, sensors such as strain, torsion, and RPM sensors, may be used to adapt the cutting system and to limit the movement of the cutting tool and prevent damage to the cutting blade. Given that the cutting blade and the drive mechanism may enter the kerf, it may be challenging to visually verify whether the cutting blade is rotating, jammed, or simply cutting into material of varying hardness. The cutting system may comprise a rotational sensor for measuring a rotational speed of the cutting blade. In an embodiment where a rotating shaft connects the power and control unit with the drive mechanism, the rotational sensor may be positioned in the power and control unit. For embodiments where the motive fluid and / or electric current is used to rotate the cutting blade, the rotational sensor may be positioned to measure RPM directly from the rotating cutting blade. This allows for a safe RPM readout, as a high electric current or high pressure in the motive fluid may indicate either that the cutting blade is experiencing high torque while cutting or that the blade is jammed. The rotational sensor may therefore ensure that the cutting blade is rotating at a desirable speed.

[0064] To further enhance the efficiency of cutting kerfs into the material, the cutting system may comprise a plurality of cutting tools. In one embodiment, the cutting system may control each cutting tool individually to increase the system's versatility. For example, the cutting system may cut a plurality of kerfs independently of each other, or it may use the plurality of cutting tools to cut a single kerf faster compared to using one cutting tool. In the cutting system, each tool may be strategically positioned to minimize the forces necessary for operation. This may be achieved by maintaining a number of cutting blades that rotate in one direction, and a corresponding number of cutting blades that rotate in the opposite direction during the cutting process. This balanced configuration effectively reduces the forces required to operate the cutting system.

[0065] The blade axis may be perpendicular to and aligned with the arm axis. This arrangement may make the cutting tool compact and symmetrical in relation to the arm, allowing the arm to easily enter the kerf. Consequently, the operation of the cutting system could be less intricate, as outlined in the first aspect of the disclosure. This arrangement simplifies the overall operation of the system.

[0066] In one embodiment of the cutting system, the cutting tool may comprise a cutting blade, a drive mechanism for rotating the cutting blade around a blade axis, and an arm that forms an arm axis and connects the cutting tool with the power and control unit. It is worth noting that this embodiment is not limited by the features of the cutting tool according to the first aspect of the disclosure.

[0067] In a third aspect the disclosure relates more particularly to a method for cutting a kerf, wherein the method comprises the steps of:

[0068] - providing a cutting system according to the second aspect of the disclosure;

[0069] - positioning a cutting tool in a start position of the kerf;

[0070] - increasing a depth of the kerf by moving the cutting tool in the direction along the arm axis;

[0071] - configuring a blade angle between a negative blade angle and a positive blade angle;

[0072] - moving the cutting tool in a lateral direction relative to the arm axis until reaching an end position of the kerf; and - configuring the blade angle between the positive blade angle and the negative blade angle.

[0073] The start and end positions may be defined as two distinct positions along the kerf, positions at the ends of the kerf, or a combination thereof. The kerf may exhibit variations, with different sections having different depths. Consequently, the start and end positions might simply indicate a transition within the kerf.

[0074] Upon reaching the start position, the cutting tool is first moved in a direction along the arm axis, which establishes a depth of the kerf. Subsequently, by moving the cutting tool in a lateral direction relative to the arm axis, a consistent depth may be maintained throughout the kerf. The blade angle, which varies between the positive and negative angles at the start and end positions, facilitates the creation of a uniform depth along the length of the kerf, including at the start and end portions. This combination of movements enables the cutting tool to operate at its optimal performance, as it ensures a predictable cut depth along the length of the kerf.

[0075] The method may further comprise the step to:

[0076] - moving the cutting tool to the start position;

[0077] - increasing the depth of the kerf by moving the cutting tool in the direction along the arm axis;

[0078] - configuring the blade angle between the negative blade angle and the positive blade angle;

[0079] - moving the cutting tool in the lateral direction relative to the arm axis until reaching the end position of the kerf; and

[0080] - configuring the blade angle between a positive blade angle and a negative blade angle.

[0081] This method facilitates a predictable increase in the depth of the kerf. Moreover, it permits the use of a cutting blade designed to rotate in a single direction, while employing either a down-milling or up-milling technique to cut or grind the kerf into the material. This approach may simplify the drive mechanism and broaden the range of usable cutting blades. Both up-milling and down-milling are established methods in the field of cutting and grinding, and may be chosen by a skilled person in the art based on the specific oper- ation to be executed. A cutting sequence may be defined as the series of events from the moment the cutting tool reaches the start position until it returns to that start position again.

[0082] The method may further comprise the steps of:

[0083] - repeating the steps of cutting the kerf, i.e. the cutting sequence, until the depth of the kerf is greater than half a diameter of the cutting blade.

[0084] The method may further comprise the step of:

[0085] - cutting the kerf along a curved path.

[0086] The method may further comprise the step of cutting a first kerf followed by a second kerf, the first kerf intersects the second kerf such that a block of cut material is formed.

[0087] The method may further comprise to break or cut out and remove the block of cut material such that a power and control unit fits into an aperture created by removing the block of cut material.

[0088] As mentioned in the second aspect of the disclosure, the aperture may be a tunnel, a conduit, or an area being prepared for a construction project.

[0089] In one embodiment, the method may comprise the steps of:

[0090] - providing a cutting system according to the second aspect of the disclosure;

[0091] - positioning a cutting tool in a start position of the kerf;

[0092] - increasing a depth of the kerf by moving the cutting tool in the direction along the arm axis;

[0093] - configuring a blade angle between a negative blade angle and a positive blade angle;

[0094] - moving the cutting tool in a lateral direction relative to the arm axis until reaching an end position of the kerf; and

[0095] - configuring the blade angle between the positive blade angle and the negative blade angle.

[0096] The method may further comprise the steps of :

[0097] - increasing the depth of the kerf by moving the cutting tool in the direction along the arm axis;

[0098] - configuring the blade angle between the negative blade angle and the positive blade angle;

[0099] - moving the cutting tool in the lateral direction relative to the arm axis until reaching the start position of the kerf; and

[0100] - configuring the blade angle between the positive blade angle and the negative blade angle.

[0101] This method enables the cutting blade to cut while moving in any lateral direction relative to the direction of the arm axis, that is, when transitioning from the start position to the end position and vice versa. This enhances the efficiency of kerf cutting. It allows for continuous operation, reducing the time and energy spent on repositioning the cutting blade.

[0102] The method may further comprise the steps of:

[0103] - repeating the steps involving to cut the kerf, i.e. the cutting sequence, until the depth of the kerf is greater than half a diameter of the cutting blade.

[0104] The method may further comprise the step of:

[0105] - cutting the kerf along a curved path.

[0106] Cutting the kerf along the curved path may facilitate the extraction of the blocks from the material. Furthermore, the surface left behind after the block's removal may require minimal refinement. This step enhances the efficiency of the process and reduces the need for subsequent surface refinement.

[0107] The method further may comprise the step of:

[0108] - reversing a direction of rotation of the cutting blade when reaching at least one of the start position and the end position.

[0109] This step provides flexibility in choosing between the up-milling and down-milling methods, regardless of the lateral direction in which the cutting tool is moving during the cutting process. This independence enhances the versatility of the cutting operation.

[0110] The method may further comprise the step of cutting a first kerf followed by a second kerf, the first kerf intersects the second kerf such that a block of cut material is formed.

[0111] The method may further comprise to break or cut out and remove the block of cut material such that a power and control unit fits into an aperture created by removing the block of cut material.

[0112] The movement of the cutting tool between the start and end positions, with the cutting blade rotating, refines the walls and edges of the kerf being cut. This is achieved by the cutting blade adopting the positive blade angle when moving in one direction and the negative blade angle when moving in the opposite direction within the kerf. This process effectively eliminates any irregularities in the walls and edges caused by the cutting blade during cutting.

[0113] The depth of the cut may be defined as the increase in the kerf's depth in the direction along the arm axis when the cutting tool moves between the start and end positions. According to the third aspect of the disclosure, the depth of cut may be constrained to a length of a radial cutting surface on the cutting blade. This ensures precision and consistency in the cutting process.

[0114] In a fourth aspect the disclosure relates more particularly to a method for cutting a kerf, wherein the method comprises the steps of:

[0115] - providing a cutting system according to the second aspect of the disclosure;

[0116] - cutting a kerf by oscillating the cutting blade between a positive blade angle and a negative blade angle while moving the cutting tool along at least one of a lateral direction from an arm axis and a direction along the arm axis.

[0117] This method enables the cutting system to cut the kerf along a curved path. It further allows the system to cut and remove material within the kerf with the depth of cut equivalent to the radius of the cutting blade, achieved by oscillating the blade angle. Le., for each cutting sequence, the depth of the kerf may increase with a distance equal to the radius of the cutting blade. This may result in a significantly deeper depth of cut compared to the method outlined in the third aspect of the disclosure. In other words, the method presented in the fourth aspect may achieve a cut depth that is substantially deeper than that of the method disclosed in the third aspect. This distinction allows for greater flexibility and precision in the cutting process.

[0118] The method may further comprise the step of:

[0119] - cutting a subsequent cut into the kerf by oscillating the cutting blade between the positive blade angle and the negative blade angle while moving the cutting tool along the kerf, the subsequent cut having a depth that is deeper compared to a previous cut.

[0120] The method may further comprise the step of repeating the beforementioned step until a depth of the kerf is equal to or greater than half the diameter of the cutting blade.

[0121] The method may further comprise the step to cut the kerf along a curved path.

[0122] The method may further comprise the step of cutting a first kerf followed by a second kerf, the first kerf intersecting the second kerf such that a block of material is formed.

[0123] The method may further comprise to cut or break out and remove the block of material such that a power and control unit fits into an aperture created by removing the block of material.

[0124] In the following is described examples of preferred embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0125] Fig. la-b show different embodiments of a cutting tool;

[0126] Fig. 2 shows, in a perspective view, a cutting system cutting a kerf into a material;

[0127] Fig. 3 shows, seen from above, the same cutting system as in Fig. 2;

[0128] Fig. 4a-b show, seen from behind the cutting system and towards the material, the cutting tool in a start position and an end position within the kerf; Fig. 5a-b show, in a larger scale than in Figs. 4b, how a cutting tool is rotated around an arm axis within the kerf;

[0129] Fig. 6a-b show a first kerf and a second kerf being cut into the material;

[0130] Fig. 7a-d show a method for cutting a plurality of blocks from the material; and

[0131] Fig. 8 shows a flow diagram and method for cutting the kerf.

[0132] Any positional indications refer to the position shown in the figures. In the figures, same or corresponding elements are indicated by same reference numerals. For clarity reasons, some elements may in some of the figures be without reference numerals. A person skilled in the art will understand that the figures are just principal drawings. The relative proportions of individual elements may also be distorted.

[0133] Fig. la shows a first embodiment of a cutting tool 1 that is adapted to be powered by a motive fluid. The cutting tool 1 comprises an arm 6 which forms an arm axis 62. The arm 6 comprises a drive mechanism 2 that is adapted to rotate a cutting blade 3 around a blade axis 32.

[0134] The cutting blade 3 is designed as a rotating disk and includes a grinding or cutting element 33. This grinding or cutting element 33 features a radial cutting surface 34 and two lateral cutting surfaces 36. Each lateral cutting surface 36 is positioned adjacent to and on either side of the radial cutting surface 34. The cutting blade 3 also forms two faces 38 that are parallel to a plane of rotation and faces in a direction along the blade axis 32.

[0135] The drive mechanism 2 includes an input portion 22 comprising two nozzles 24 and an output portion 26 comprising two turbines 28. Each turbine 28 is positioned on a respective face 38 of the cutting blade 3. Each nozzle 24 is located in the arm 6 and is adapted to direct a motive fluid (represented by a black arrow) towards its respective turbine 28.

[0136] The arm 6 comprises a conduit 68 through which the motive fluid may be directed to the drive mechanism 2. Further details about the conduit 68 will be in the following. Additionally, the arm 6 includes a sensor 7, specifically a Hall sensor, for measuring the rotational speed (RPM) of the cutting blade 3 around the blade axis 32. Fig. lb shows a second embodiment of a cutting tool 1 that is adapted to be powered by electric power. In this embodiment, the input portion 22 comprises an electric stator 25, and the output portion 26 comprises a rotor 29. Together, the electric stator 25 and the rotor 29 form an electric motor. Electric wires 252 are routed along the arm 6 to connect to the drive mechanism 2. The conduit 68 guides a fluid (not shown) for the purpose of cooling and flushing the cutting blade 3.

[0137] Fig. 2 shows a cutting system 10 adapted for cutting a kerf 92 into a material 9. The material 9 is represented as a square block and is composed of a rock formation. The cutting system 10 includes a cutting tool 1 as shown in Fig. la, and a power and control unit 12. The arm 6 is a rigid member that connects the drive mechanism 2 to the power and control unit 12.

[0138] The power and control unit 12 is designed to rotate the cutting tool 1 around the arm axis 62, allowing a blade angle 4 to be varied. Detailed description of the blade angle 4 will be provided in relation to Fig. 5a and 5b. Furthermore, the power and control unit 12 is also adapted to move the cutting tool 1 in a lateral direction 64 with respect to the arm axis 62, and in a direction 66 along the arm axis 62. The conduit 68 guides the motive fluid from the power and control unit 12 to the drive mechanism 2.

[0139] Fig. 3 shows the kerf 92 with a length 924 and a depth 923.

[0140] Fig. 4a depicts the cutting system 10 positioning the cutting tool 1 at a start position 925 within the kerf 92. Fig. 4b shows the cutting tool 1 at an end position 926 within the kerf 92. The start and end positions 925, 926 are located at opposite ends of the kerf 92.

[0141] Fig. 5a shows the blade axis 32 forming the blade angle 4 with a line perpendicular to the kerf 92. The shown blade angle 4 constitutes a negative blade angle 44. The kerf 92 has a width 922 that allows the drive mechanism 2 and a portion of the arm 6 to enter the kerf. As seen in Fig. 2 and 3, the depth 923 and the width 922 of the kerf 92 are sufficient to allow the drive mechanism 2 and a portion of the arm 6 to enter the kerf 92.

[0142] Referring now to Fig. 5a and 5b, to ensure the width 922 is sufficient, the cutting system

[0143] 10 and the cutting tool 1 are adapted to allow the cutting tool 1 to rotate around the arm axis 62 within the kerf 92 while cutting. This rotation enables the width 922 to be sufficient for the drive mechanism 2 and the arm 6 to enter the kerf 92, allowing the depth 923 to be larger than half the diameter of the cutting blade 3. In Fig. 5a, the blade angle 4 is the negative blade angle 44, while in Fig. 5b, the blade angle is a positive blade angle 42. Fig. 5a and 5b illustrate how the width 922 may be cut larger than the radial cutting surface 34 and the drive mechanism 2. The power and control unit 12 rotates the cutting tool 1 around the arm axis 62 using a powered swivel (not shown).

[0144] Fig. 6a depicts the cutting system 10 cutting the kerf 92 by moving the cutting tool 1 in the lateral direction 64 relative to the arm axis 62. The lateral direction 64 follows a curved path 94. Fig. 6a shows the cutting system 10 in three different positions along the curved path 94. Notably, the kerf 92 may have a larger width 922 in a curved portion compared to a straight portion, allowing the cutting blade 3 to fit within the curved portions.

[0145] The cutting system 10 is adapted to create a plurality of kerfs 92 in a cutting pattern 96. Fig. 6a shows a first kerf 962, while Fig. 6b shows a second kerf 964. The second kerf 964 is created by moving the cutting tool 1 along the lateral direction 64 relative to the arm axis 62 and the direction 66 along the arm axis 62 such that the first kerf 962 and the second kerf 964 intersect along their respective lengths 924. This intersection results in a block of material 98 being cut from the material 9. The first kerf 962 and the second kerf 964 together form the cutting pattern 96.

[0146] Fig. 7a shows an embodiment of the cutting system 10 comprising one power and control unit 12 connected to four cutting tools 1. The four cutting tools 1 and their respective arms 6 are arranged such that each arm 6 may be positioned in a corner of a rectangle, i.e., in a quadrilateral pattern. The cutting system 10 has configured two cutting tools to cut one first kerf 962 and the remaining two cutting tools 1 to cut another first kerf 962 into the material 9. The first kerfs 962 are in a horizontal direction. The cutting system 10 is configured such that the two cutting tools 1 cutting each first kerf 962, have their cutting blades 3 rotating in opposite directions. This configuration effectively reduces the forces necessary to move the power and control unit 12. In Fig. 7b, the cutting system 10 has completed a total of four horizontal first kerfs 962 and is in the process of completing two second kerfs 964. The two second kerfs 964 are vertically positioned, i.e., perpendicular to the four first kerfs 962.

[0147] Fig. 7c shows that the cutting system 10 has completed eight second kerfs 964. As seen, the depth 923 of the first kerfs 962 and the second kerfs 964 are substantially larger than the diameter of the cutting blade 3. The first kerfs 962 intersect the second kerfs 964 to form the cutting pattern 96 such that blocks of material 98 have been formed. The cutting system 1 cuts the kerfs 92 along the cutting pattern 96 automatically.

[0148] As seen in Fig. 7d, the blocks of material 98 have been broken off from the material 9, creating an aperture 99 or opening in the material 9. The aperture 99 is sufficiently large to allow the cutting system to enter and continue to cut more blocks of material 98.

[0149] Fig. 8 shows a method for cutting the kerf 92 into the material 9. The cutting tool 1 is positioned in the start position 925 inside the kerf 92. The cutting blade 3 is then moved in the direction 66 along the arm axis 62, thereby increasing the depth 923 of the kerf 92. The cutting tool 1 is then configured between the negative blade angle 44 and the positive blade angle 42. The cutting tool 1 is then moved in the lateral direction 64 relative to the direction of the arm axis 62 until reaching the end position 926. The blade angle 4 is then configured to the negative blade angle 44, ensuring that the end position 926 is fully cut. The cutting tool 1 is then moved in the lateral direction 64 until reaching the start position 925. The cutting blade 3, i.e., the cutting tool 1, is then moved in the direction 66 along the arm axis 62 such that the depth 923 of the kerf 92 is increased. The cutting tool 1 is then configured between the positive blade angle 42 and the negative blade angle 44, fully cutting the start position 925. The cutting tool 1 is then moved along the lateral direction 64 until reaching the end position 926. The cutting tool 1 is then rotated between the negative blade angle 44 and the positive blade angle 42, ensuring the end position 926 is now fully cut. The cutting tool 1 is then moved in the lateral direction 64 to the start position 925. By moving the cutting tool 1 along the length 924 of the kerf 92 in both the negative blade angle 44 and the positive blade angle 42, the edges and inner surfaces of the kerf 92 are cut with high precision. The method may be repeated until the depth 923 of the kerf 92 is desirable.

[0150] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embod- iments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. Use of the verb "comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

C l a i m s1. A cutting tool (1) for cutting a kerf (92) into a material (9), the cutting tool (1) comprising:- a cutting blade (3);- a drive mechanism (2) for rotating the cutting blade (3) around a blade axis (32);- an arm (6) for connecting the cutting tool (1) with a power and control unit (12), the arm (6) forming an arm axis (62), c h a r a c t e r i s e d i n that:- the drive mechanism (2) comprises an input portion (22) and an output portion (26), the input portion (22) being guided through, connected to or forming a part of the arm (6) and the output portion (26) being rigidly connected to the cutting blade (3);- the arm (6) is adapted to connect a power source from the power and control unit (12) to the drive mechanism (2); and- when in use, the cutting tool (1) and the arm (6) is adapted to rotate the cutting blade (3) and the drive mechanism (2) around the arm axis (62) while the cutting blade (3) cuts the kerf (92).

2. The cutting tool (1) according to claim 1, wherein, when in use, the drive mechanism (2) is adapted to enter the kerf (92).

3. The cutting tool (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the drive mechanism (2) transforms kinetic energy from a motive fluid or an electric energy from a wire into rotational energy in the cutting blade (3).

4. The cutting tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the input portion (22) comprises a nozzle (24) and the output portion (26) comprises a turbine (28).

5. The cutting tool (1) according to claim 4, wherein the turbine (28) is at least one of an impulse turbine and a reaction turbine connected to a face (38) of the cutting blade (3).

6. The cutting tool (1) according to claim 5, wherein the face (38) is arranged perpendicularly to the blade axis (32).

7. The cutting tool (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the cutting tool (1) is configured to guide a motive fluid towards a cutting area, the motive fluid is used to rotate the cutting blade (3) via the turbine (28) and the cutting area is a contact area between the cutting blade (3) and a portion of the kerf (92) being cut, when the cutting tool (1) is in use.

8. The cutting tool (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein cutting blade (3) comprises two turbines (28), one turbine (28) on each side of the cutting blade (3).

9. The cutting tool (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the input portion (22) comprises an electric stator (25) and the output portion (26) comprises a rotor (29).

10. The cutting tool (1) according to claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism (2) comprises a right angle gearbox and the input portion (22) is an input gear and the output portion (26) is an output gear.

11. The cutting tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cutting tool (1) comprises two or more cutting blades (3).

12. A cutting system (10) for cutting a kerf (92) into a material (9), the cutting system (10) comprising a power and control unit (12) and a cutting tool (1), c h a r a c t e r i s e d i n that:- the cutting tool (1) is according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and connected to the power and control unit (12) via an arm (6);- when in use and cutting the kerf (92), the cutting system (1) is adapted to con-figure a blade angle (4) relative to the kerf (92) being cut, the blade angle (4) being defined by an angle between a blade axis (32) and a line perpendicular to the kerf (92) being cut.

13. The cutting system (3) according to claim 12, wherein the power and control unit (12) is adapted to rotate at least a portion of the arm (6) around an arm axis (62).

14. The cutting system (10) according to claims 12 or 13, wherein the cutting system (10) is adapted to move the arm (6) in at least one of a lateral direction (64) relative to a direction of the arm axis (62) and a direction (66) along the arm axis (62).

15. The cutting system (10) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the cutting system (10), when in use and cutting the kerf (92), is adapted to vary the blade angle (4) by rotating the cutting tool (1) around the arm axis (62) between a positive blade angle (42) and a negative blade angle (44) in an oscillating pattern, the positive blade angle (42) and the negative blade angle (44) being defined relative to the kerf (92) being cut.

16. The cutting system (10) according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the cutting system (10) is adapted to move the cutting tool (1) in a pre-determined cutting pattern (96) to cut a block of material (98) from the material (9).

17. The cutting system (10) according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein cutting system (10) comprises a rotational sensor (7) for measuring a rotational speed of the cutting blade (3).

18. The cutting system (10) according to any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the cutting system (10) comprises a plurality of cutting tools (1).

19. The cutting system (10) according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein the blade axis (32) is perpendicular and aligned with the arm axis (62).

20. A method for cutting a kerf (92), c h a r a c t e r i s e d i n that the method comprises the steps of:- providing a cutting system (10) according to any one of claims 12 to 19;- positioning a cutting tool (1) in a start position (925) of the kerf (92);- increasing a depth (923) of the kerf (92) by moving the cutting tool (1) in a direction (66) along the arm axis (62);- configuring a blade angle (4) between a negative blade angle (44) and a positive blade angle (42);- moving the cutting tool (1) in a lateral direction (64) relative to the arm axis (62) until reaching an end position (926) of the kerf (92); and- configuring the blade angle (4) between the positive blade angle (42) and the negative blade angle (44).

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein the method further comprises the steps of:- moving the cutting tool (1) to the start position (925);- increasing the depth (923) of the kerf (92) by moving the cutting tool (1) in the direction (66) along the arm axis (62);- configuring the blade angle (4) between the negative blade angle (44) and the positive blade angle (42);- moving the cutting tool (1) in the lateral direction (64) relative to the arm axis (62) until reaching the end position (926) of the kerf (92); and- configuring the blade angle (4) between the positive blade angle (42) and the negative blade angle (44).

22. The method according to claim 20, wherein the method further comprises the steps of:- increasing the depth (923) of the kerf (92) by moving the cutting tool (1) in the direction (66) along the arm axis (62);- configuring the blade angle (4) between the negative blade angle (44) and the positive blade angle (42);- moving the cutting tool (1) in the lateral direction (64) relative to the arm axis (62) until reaching the start position (925) of the kerf (92); and- configuring the blade angle (4) between the positive blade angle (42) and the negative blade angle (44).

23. The method according to claim 20 and one of claims 21 to 22, wherein the method further comprises the steps of:- repeating the steps comprising cutting the kerf (92) in claims 20 and at least the steps in one of claims 21 or 22 until the depth (923) of the kerf (92) is greater than half a diameter of the cutting blade (3).

24. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the method further comprises the step of:- cutting the kerf (92) along a curved path (94).

25. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the method further comprises the step of:- reversing a direction of rotation of the cutting blade (3) when reaching at least one of the start position (925) and the end position (926).

26. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein the method further comprises the step of cutting a first kerf (962) followed by a second kerf (964), the first kerf (962) intersecting the second kerf (964) such that a block of cut material (98) is formed.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein the method further comprises to break or cut out and remove the block of cut material (98) such that a power and control unit (12) fits into an aperture (99) created by removing the block of cut material (98).

28. A method for cutting a kerf (92), c h a r a c t e r i s e d i n that the method comprises the steps of:- providing a cutting system (10) according to any one of claims 12 to 19;- cutting a kerf (92) by oscillating the cutting blade (3) between a positive blade angle (42) and a negative blade angle (44) while moving the cutting tool (1) alongat least one of a lateral direction (64) relative to an arm axis (62) and a direction (66) along the arm axis (62).

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein the method further comprises the step of:- cutting a subsequent cut into the kerf (92) by oscillating the cutting blade (3) between the positive blade angle (42) and the negative blade angle (44) while moving the cutting tool (1) along the kerf (92), the subsequent cut having a depth (923) that is deeper compared to a previous cut.

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein the method further comprises the step of repeating the step in claim 29 until the depth (923) of the kerf (92) is equal to or greater than half the diameter of the cutting blade (3).

31. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 30, wherein the method further comprises the step to cut the kerf (92) along a curved path (94).

32. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein the method further comprises the step of cutting a first kerf (962) followed by a second kerf (964), the first kerf (962) intersecting the second kerf (964) such that a block of material (98) is formed.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein the method further comprises to cut out and remove the block of cut material (98) such that a power and control unit (12) fits into an aperture (99) created by removing the block of cut material (98).