Dust reduction device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dust reduction device for use in cutting, polishing and / or grinding operations using a power tool on masonry type items. The dust reduction device includes a hollow conduit body and a connecting arrangement configured for connecting the hollow conduit body to the side of a portable workbench. The connecting arrangement and the hollow conduit body are configured so that when the hollow conduit body is connected to the portable workbench, the top face of the conduit body is horizontally flush with the working face of the workbench, and the conduit body is configured to be disposed below the working face of the working table in use. The conduit body defines an elongate inlet slot that is configured for at least partly receiving the blade of a power tool.

Description

DUST REDUCTION DEVICEField of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a dust reduction device and in particular to a dust reduction device for use in reducing dust while cutting or polishing tiles, bricks, blocks, stone and other masonry products.

[0002] The invention has been developed primarily for use in / with dry cutting and / or polishing of tiles, bricks, blocks, stone and other masonry products and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.Background of the Invention

[0003] The installation of masonry tiles at a work site requires the use of tile cutting and polishing. These processes can be conducted wet or dry. It is widely acknowledged that these processes produce dust and debris that contaminates the work site exposing the operator and other people at the work site to that potentially harmful dust and debris. Traditionally wet cutting has been used to reduce dust, but has some drawbacks, including aspects of safety when using electrical power tools in a wet environment and requires that the tiles be allowed to dry (e.g., overnight) before applying adhesives, which is inconvenient and greatly extends the time required for the installation. Thus, dry cutting is preferred, however it creates the need for efficient dust reduction during the cutting and polishing processes.

[0004] Integrated dry saw and dust reduction systems have been described, such as US11498243, US7013884 and US2024 / 0123525 and systems offered commercially, e.g., iQTS244 10" “Dry Cut Tile Saw with Integrated Dust Containment” (iQ Power Tools, Perris, California, USA). Such systems are expensive and although portable, their physical size makes manoeuvring them into some indoor work sites difficult. In addition, this equipment duplicates some of the functions of equipment most tilers have already invested in.

[0005] The popularity of handheld power tools, particularly battery-operated tools, has made these the preferred means for cutting, mitering and polishing tiles. Hence, this has created a need for dust reduction systems that suit this cutting style. Shrouds that are attached to the tool greatly reduce the manoeuvrability of the cutting tool. Cutting boardswith a vacuum port have also been introduced to fill this need, e.g., “Joey Boardz” (JoeyBoardz, Woodvale, Western Australia, Australia), the “Backdraft-dust-reduction- box” (RTC Products, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, USA) and the “Dust-collection- device” (Karl Dahm & Partner GmbH, Seebruck, Germany). These three products are similar in that each comprise a platform flat box less than 50 mm deep that the tile lays upon, inbuilt vacuum box contain a slot for the saw blade to penetrate and a vacuum port. Whilst effective at reducing dust during cutting, these products suffer from their small size, require a table surface upon which they and the tile needs to be clamped and also restrict access for the power tools during mitering. It is also evident to those skilled in the art of tiling that these platforms are not well suited to the polishing of cut edges with power tools.

[0006] Thus, there remains the need for efficient dust minimization devices when using handheld power tools with masonry tiles that address these deficiencies. Preferably such devices are: a. portable and can be carried in one hand, b. rugged to withstand being transported in a tiler’s heavily loaded vehicle as well as the effects of being struck with the saw blade, c. versatile to allow the dual purpose of access for saw blades during mitering cuts and also with polishing discs whilst polishing cut edges, d. don’t impede access of the power tool to the cut or cut edge, and e. leverage the existing equipment that the tiler already possesses.

[0007] Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such background art is prior art, nor that such background art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field in Australia or any other country.Summary of the Invention

[0008] The invention seeks to provide a dust reduction device which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[0009] A portable elongate hollow body comprising: a. a wall defining a planar top face with an elongate inlet slot for receiving penetration of at least part of a saw blade during the cutting of masonry tiles, bricks, blocks, stone and other masonry products,b. a wall defining a second face extending at right angles to the top face, c. a connecting arrangement configured for facilitating the connection of the body to the side of a portable work bench or platform such that the second face abuts the side of the work bench, the top face containing the slot is horizontal, flush with the top of the work bench, d. an outlet port located at the bottom configured for attaching a vacuum hose.

[0010] In one embodiment, the second face is planar.

[0011] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a dust reduction device for reducing ambient dust from a dust source generated by an operation on a working table that defines an upper working face, the dust reduction device including: a. a hollow conduit body including: i. a top wall defining a planar top face, the top wall defining an elongate inlet slot configured for receiving penetration of at least part of a saw blade during the operation, ii. a side wall defining a second face extending at right angles to the top face, iii. an outlet port configured for attaching a vacuum hose; and b. a connecting arrangement configured for facilitating the connection of the body to the side of a portable work bench or platform such that the second face abuts the side of the work bench, the top face containing the slot is horizontal, flush with the top of the work bench,

[0012] In one embodiment, the elongate inlet slot extends parallel to an edge of the upper working face of the working table.

[0013] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a dust reduction device for reducing ambient dust from a dust source generated by an operation on a working table that defines an upper working face, the dust reduction device including: a. a conduit body, the conduit body being configured for guiding the dust from the dust source to a remote location; b. at least one or more connecting formations configured for facilitating the connection of the conduit body to the working table; c. wherein, in use, the conduit body is configured to be disposed below the plane of the upper working face of the working table.

[0014] In one embodiment, the conduit body defines an abutment face configured for abutment with a side of the working table.

[0015] In one embodiment, the conduit body defines a table side face

[0016] In one embodiment, the conduit body defines an inlet and an outlet.

[0017] In one embodiment, the connecting formation is a configured for facilitating the connection of the conduit body to the working table such that the table face is flush with the upper working face of the working table.

[0018] In one embodiment the inlet is an elongate inlet slot.

[0019] In one embodiment, the elongate inlet slot is configured for receiving at least part of a saw blade during the operation

[0020] In one embodiment, the dust reduction device includes a connecting arrangement for connecting the dust reduction device to the working table.

[0021] In one embodiment, the connecting arrangement includes a clamping arrangement.

[0022] In one embodiment, the table side face is substantially planar.

[0023] In one embodiment, the elongate inlet slot is defined in the table side face.

[0024] In one embodiment, the conduit body defines an outer face opposed to the abutment face.

[0025] In one embodiment, the elongate inlet slot is defined in the outer face.

[0026] In one embodiment, the conduit body is configured for receiving at least part of the saw blade during the operation.

[0027] In one embodiment, the conduit body is elongate.

[0028] In one embodiment, the elongate conduit body extends parallel with a side of the working table.

[0029] In one embodiment, the conduit body is configured for staying below the level of the upper working face of the working table

[0030] In one embodiment, the elongate inlet slot extends parallel to an edge of the upper working face of the working table.

[0031] In one embodiment, the connecting arrangement is configured for removably connecting the dust reduction device to the working table.

[0032] In one embodiment, the dust reduction device is portable.

[0033] In one embodiment, the outlet is configured for connection to a vacuum hose.

[0034] In one embodiment, in use, the dust reduction device is configured for guiding ambient dust through the elongate inlet slot and out of the outlet to a vacuum source.

[0035] In one embodiment, the at least one or more connecting formations include a recess for seating at least part of a clamping arrangement.

[0036] In one embodiment, the at least one or more connecting formations include a pair of tab formations.

[0037] In one embodiment, the pair of tab formations are located on opposed sides conduit body.

[0038] In one embodiment, the pair of tab formations extended parallel with an edge of the working table.

[0039] In one embodiment, the pair of tab formations extend transversely to an edge of the working table.

[0040] In one embodiment, the conduit body defines a plurality of funnels for guiding air from the inlet to the outlet.

[0041] In one embodiment, the conduit body includes a plurality of inlets.

[0042] In one embodiment, the conduit body includes a plurality of outlets.

[0043] In one embodiment, the dust reduction device includes a slot surround portion configured for surrounding the inlet.

[0044] In one embodiment, the slot surround portion is composed of an abrasion resistant material.

[0045] In one embodiment, the slot surround portion is composed of a metallic material.

[0046] In one embodiment, the slot surround portion is removably connectable to the conduit body.

[0047] In one embodiment, the slot surround portion is connectable to the conduit body in a plurality of configurations.

[0048] The object of the invention is a portable device that can be carried in one hand that minimizes dust during the cutting and edge polishing of masonry tiles, bricks, blocks, stone and other masonry products when using handheld power tools.

[0049] Another aspect of the invention described herein is that it attaches to existing work benches and platforms, which are commonly used and possessed by tilers and other building tradesfolk.

[0050] Another aspect of the invention is that it can be constructed to accommodate larger tiles in a single cut. In some embodiments, the cutting slot is greater than 60 cm long and preferably greater than 70 cm long.

[0051] Another aspect of the invention is that it comprises two sets of attachment points for attaching to a work bench or platform in two orientations. One orientation positions theslot on the top face and the second orientation positions the slot at the upper edge of the outer vertical face. The dual orientations enable better suitability with the two processes of 1) cutting and 2) polishing cut edges. The first orientation provides unencumbered access to the cut by the power tool when cutting tiles, in either square or mitre cuts. In the second orientation, the invention provides unencumbered access to the cut edge by the power tool when polishing the edge. In addition, the dual orientations enable the width of the slot to be kept to a minimum, which maximises the removal of dust and debris.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment the main body of the invention is less than 102 mm wide, not including the fittings for attaching to a work bench or platform. Thus, the invention differs from cutting boards in that it is long and thin.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment the invention it is fitted with a vacuum port at each end.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment of the invention one vacuum port is capped and one is connected to a vacuum source. The port for connecting the vacuum hose is chosen considering the direction of rotation of the cutting blade or polishing disc, such that the rotation pushes much of the debris towards the end fitted with the vacuum hose.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment the invention is constructed of aluminium to withstand the rigors of transport and daily use.

[0056] Another aspect of the invention is that it is constructed of plastic, e.g., ABS, PVC or other polymeric material or composite.

[0057] In another embodiment the invention comprises two pieces, the main body constructed of plastic and a slot surround constructed of aluminium or other metal.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment the slot is cutout of two faces and along one edge of the main body and the metal slot surround comprises a right angle with the slot cut into one face and along one edge.

[0059] In another embodiment of the invention the main body is constructed of plastic and is fused together with the slot surround to make a single piece.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment the metal slot surround is removable and can be connected to the main body in two orientations. One orientation positions the slot on the top face and the second orientation positions the slot at the upper edge of the outer vertical face. In this embodiment only one set of attachment points are required.

[0061] Advantageously, the preferred embodiment of the invention provides a portable device that can be carried in one hand that minimizes dust during the cutting and edge polishing of masonry tiles, bricks, blocks, stone and other masonry products when using handheld power tools.

[0062] Another advantage of the invention described herein is that it attaches to existing work benches and platforms, which are commonly used and possessed by tilers and other building tradesfolk.

[0063] Another advantage of the invention is that it can be constructed to accommodate larger tiles in a single cut. In some embodiments, the cutting slot is greater than 60 cm long and preferably greater than 70 cm long.

[0064] Another advantage of the invention is that it comprises attachment points for attaching and detaching to a work bench or platform that positions the slot at the outer edge (Furthest from the trestle) of the top face and with the top face flush with the top of the work bench. This orientation provides unencumbered access to the cut by the power tool when cutting tiles, in either square or mitre cuts, as well as when polishing the edge. These clearances are highlighted in Figures 17 - 19 and cannot be achieved if the slot is located towards the centre of a wide box. The slot is made sufficiently wide to accommodate thick polishing discs that enter the slot at an angle. In a preferred embodiment the slot is at least 15 mm wide and, more preferably, at least 22 mm wide. Whilst the wider slot potentially decreases the air velocity into the slot and hence also the efficiency of dust removal, this is counteracted by the top faces of the trestle and device being level, such that, when a tile is placed upon them it almost creates a seal and directs most of the airflow around the edges of the tile and the area of the cuts where it is most required, thus maximising dust removal.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment the main body of the invention is less than 102 mm wide, not including the fittings for attaching to a work bench or platform. More preferably, the main body of the invention is less than 62 mm wide and even more preferably less than 51 mm wide.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment the invention, it is fitted with a vacuum port that is situated at a distance below the top face and the centre of the vacuum port is in the same vertical plane as the centre of the cutting slot in the top face. More preferably, the vacuum port is pneumatically connected to at least two vacuum chambers that subsequently connect pneumatically to the slot area. In this manner, the airflow is distributed along the length of the slot better than with a single vacuum chamber.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment the main body of the invention is greater than 100 mm deep (vertical dimension) and more preferably, greater than 150 mm. Thus, the invention differs from cutting boards in that it is long and thin and deep vertically, as opposed to long, wide and very shallow.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment the invention is clamped to the side of the work bench or platform. In a more preferred embodiment, the clamps are “quick grip” / ”one-handed” bar clamps that are operated by a trigger mechanism. Numerous versions of such clamps are sold commercially and may be comprised of steel bars with handles and jaws of plastic or aluminium. Several examples are shown in Figure 22 and listed in Table 1. Such clamps enable one-handed operation of each clamp and hence a quick and easy two- handed attachment and alignment of the invention to a work bench or platform. A more preferred embodiment is that the clamps are affixed to or slot onto the main body of the invention prior to the attachment to the work bench in place of the rubber feet that normally slot onto the jaw. These rubber feet are visible in Figure 22. When inserted into this position the clamps protrude at approximately right angle from the main body (Figure 6).

[0069] In a preferred embodiment the clamps comprise modifications and improvements from the commercial offerings to better suit the use with the invention. The side faces of the platform of common aluminium work benches / trestles or platforms typically comprises a 3 mm thick aluminium channel piece that is 40 mm high with 20 mm walls. The underside of the platform also contains ribs that extend down approximately 10 mm from the top face, which the sliding jaw must also clear. The sliding jaw of the clamp is modified such that the top of this jaw is no longer aligned with the top of the other jaw and instead aligns at least 3 mm below and more preferably, at least 10 mm below the other top of the other jaw. These modifications clear the jaw from the obstructions of the common aluminium work benches / trestles or platforms. In addition, the jaw extends forward further to provide clearance around the lower channel wall. In addition, the bar is shortened such that at the maximum opening the sliding jaw is at least 25 mm from the rear face of the device and no more than 55 mm apart (including any rubber feet attached to this jaw). More preferably, at maximum opening the jaw sits just below the first rib extending from the underside of the top face. In addition, the clamp may also comprise a solid body fitted to the end of the bar that extends outwards from the face of the trestle and device protects the operator from the otherwise sharp ends of the bar.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment the invention comprises an attachment for a transport or storage position of the clamps that place them parallel with the body of the device and not protruding at right angle to the main body. This helps limit damage that may occur to the clamps during day-to-day transport on work vehicles, in particular, being snapped off the main body. The clamps are disconnected from the working (clamping) position and reconnected to the transport position, and vice versa, as required.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment the invention is constructed of aluminium to withstand the rigors of transport and daily use.

[0072] Another aspect of the invention is that it is constructed of plastic, e.g., ABS, PVC or other polymeric material or composite.

[0073] In another embodiment the invention comprises two pieces, the main body constructed of plastic and a slot surround constructed of aluminium or other metal.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment the slot is cut along one edge of the main body and the metal slot surround comprises a right angle with the slot cut into one face and along one edge.

[0075] In another embodiment of the invention the main body is constructed of plastic and is fused together with the slot surround to make a single piece.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment the metal slot surround is removable and can be replaced as suffers damage from the cutting and grinding blades.

[0077] According to another aspect of the invention there is a provided support for cutting tiles and / or masonry comprising: an elongate hollow body; and a slot in the body extending longitudinally between the first end and the second end. Preferably the upper section of the body is a rectangular prism that sits above, and is connected, to a lower vacuum chamber that also contains a vacuum port. Preferably the rectangular prism body is adapted to support a tile and / or masonry while being cut. Preferably the slot is adapted to receive a blade from a cutting device therein which is used to cut the tile and / or masonry.

[0078] According to another aspect of the invention there is a provided support for cutting tiles and / or masonry comprising: an elongate hollow body; and a slot in the body extending longitudinally between the first end and the second end. Preferably the upper section of the body is a rectangular prism that sits above, and is connected, to a lower vacuum chamber that also contains a vacuum port. Preferably the rectangular prism body is adapted to support a tile and / or masonry while being cut. Preferably the slot is adapted to receive a blade from a cutting device therein which is used to cut the tile and / or masonry.

[0079] A principle of general operation of the present invention is the provision of a dust extraction device that is capable of guiding dust from a dust source on a work table to a vacuum without reducing the available amount of work space on the work table.

[0080] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0081] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0082] Figure 1 shows a front view of a first embodiment of a dust extraction device.

[0083] Figure 2 shows a left-hand end view of the dust extraction device shown in Figure 1.

[0084] Figure 3 shows a top view of the dust extraction device shown in Figure 1 .

[0085] Figure 4 shows a top cutaway view of a dust extraction device of figure 1 attached to a portable work platform / trestle.

[0086] Figure 5 shows a top right front orthographic view of the dust extraction device of figure 1 .

[0087] Figure 6 shows a top right front orthographic view of a second embodiment of a dust extraction device with clamps inserted into the parallel transformations for clamping to the side of a work table.

[0088] Figure 7 shows a top right front orthographic view of the dust extraction device of figure 6 with clamps inserted into the transverse tab formations

[0089] Figure 8 shows a cutaway cross sectional side view of common prior art commercial work benches or platforms.

[0090] Figure 9 shows a cutaway cross sectional side view of a clamp clamping the tab formations to a commercial workbench of figure 8.

[0091] Figure 10 shows a schematic view of the arrangement of the different sections of the exemplary invention varied in the embodiments shown in figures 12c-12h relative to their position in the embodiment shown in figure 12a..

[0092] Figure 11 shows a schematic view of the four features varied in the embodiments shown in figures 12c-12h relative to their position in the embodiment shown in figure 12a.

[0093] Figure 12a shows a front view of a dust extraction device of figure 1 , and figures 12b -12h shows alternative embodiments of dust extraction devices.

[0094] Figure 13 shows the airflow measured at various position along the slot when embodiments of the dust extraction device as shown in figures 12f, 12c, 12g, 12d and 12h connected to a commercial vacuum cleaner.

[0095] Figures 14a-f shows front views of alternative embodiments dust extraction devices, and figure 14g shows the front view of the dust extraction device of figure 1.

[0096] Figures 15a-g shows top front right orthographic views of each of the embodiments shown in figures 14a-g.

[0097] Figure 16a and b show top views of the embodiments of a dust extraction device shown in figures 14a and figure 14b.

[0098] Figure 17 shows the airflow measured at various position along the slot when the embodiments of a dust extraction devices shown in figures 12f, 12c, 12g, 12d, 12h were connected to a commercial vacuum cleaner.

[0099] Figure 18 shows a schematic view of the cross section of the top section of a dust extraction device fitted with a tile and an angle grinder being used in the vertical (square) cutting position, with dashed circles highlighting the clearances enabled by positioning of the slot at the edge of the device.

[0100] Figure 19 shows a schematic view of the cross section of the top section of a dust extraction device fitted with a tile and an angle grinder being used for cutting mitres, with dashed circles highlighting the clearances enabled by positioning of the slot at the edge of the device.

[0101] Figure 20 shows a schematic view of the cross section of the top section of a dust extraction device fitted with a tile and an angle grinder being used for polishing a mitre cut, showing how the polishing disc is much wider than the cutting blade, and the dashed circles highlighting the clearances enabled by positioning of the slot at an edge of the top face.

[0102] Figure 21 shows a top right front orthographic view of the main body of a two-piece design for connection to a slot surround shown in figure 39.

[0103] Figure 22 shows an assortment of commercial quick grip / ”one handed” bar clamps.

[0104] Figure 23a&b a top right front orthographic view and a front view of a further embodiment of a dust reduction device with quadfurcated air path, respectively.

[0105] Figure 24 shows the airflow measured at various position along the slot when the embodiment of a dust reduction device shown in figures 23 a&b was connected to a commercial vacuum cleaner.

[0106] Figure 25 shows a top view of another embodiment of a dust reduction device.

[0107] Figure 26 shows a left-hand side view of the exemplary invention shown in figure 25.

[0108] Figure 27 shows a bottom view of the embodiment of a dust reduction device shown in Figure 25.

[0109] Figure 28 shows a top cutaway view of the dust reduction device of figure 25 when attached to a portable work platform / trestle in a first orientation.

[0110] Figure 29a&b shows top cutaway view and front view, respectively, of the dust reduction device of figure 25 when attached to a portable work platform in a second orientation.

[0111] Figure 30 shows a photograph from the top and front sides of the dust reduction device of figure 25 constructed from aluminium.

[0112] Figure 31 shows a front view including the dimensions of the exemplary invention shown in figure 25.

[0113] Figure 32 shows a photograph from a top right front view of the dust reduction device of figure 25 when attached to a work platform / trestle such that the cutting slot is on the top face in a first orientation.

[0114] Figure 33 shows a photograph from a top right front view of the dust reduction device of figure 25 when attached to a work platform / trestle such that the cutting slot is at the upper edge of the outer vertical face in a second orientation.

[0115] Figure 34 shows a photograph from top right front view of the dust reduction device of figure 25 in a first orientation, highlighting the freedom of obstruction to the grinder offered by the exemplary invention when cutting mitres.

[0116] Figure 35 shows a photograph from a top left front view of the dust reduction device of figure 25 in a second orientation highlighting the freedom of obstruction to the grinder offered by the exemplary invention when polishing cut edges.

[0117] Figure 36 shows a top view of the main body of an embodiment of a dust reduction device that includes two pieces.

[0118] Figure 37 shows a front view of the piece shown in figure 36.

[0119] Figure 38 shows an isometric view of the slot surround of an exemplary invention comprising two pieces.

[0120] Figure 39 shows a top front right orthographic view of a slot surround aluminium section of a two-piece design for connection to the main body of figure 21 .

[0121] Figure 40 shows a top front right orthographic view of a further embodiment of a dust extraction device including a steel slot surround that is fastened to the main body by fasteners.

[0122] Figure 41 shows the airflow measured at various position along the slot when the embodiment of a dust reduction device shown in figure 40 was connected to a commercial vacuum cleaner.Description of Embodiments

[0123] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[0124] In a first aspect a dust reduction device is denoted by the reference numeral 1000. The dust reduction device 1000 is intended for use with a preferably portable workbench or platform or table 2000 which may be mounted on a trestle 2100. The dust reduction device 1000 is for reducing ambient dust from a dust source generated by an operation on the workbench 2000.

[0125] As illustrated in figure 8 with typical dimensions, the workbench 2000 preferably includes an upper working face 2200 on which items (such as tiles 5000) to be cut and / or polished and / or grinded can be located. The upper working face 2200 of the workbench 2000 preferably extends to a table edge 2300, where a table side 2400 extends downwardly. A power tool, for example in the form of a saw 3000, may be mounted on the work table 2000, and includes a blade 3100 or other similar working piece. It is envisaged that the blade 3100 could also be a grinding wheel or polishing wheel. It is further envisaged that the saw 3000 need not necessarily be mounted on the work table 2000, and could be handled manually as shown in figure 35.

[0126] Now described with reference to the figures, there is provided a dust reduction device 1000. The dust reduction device 1000 comprises a hollow conduit body 1100, and a connecting arrangement 1200.

[0127] The hollow conduit body 1100 includes a top wall 1110 that may define a preferably planar table or top face 1112. In the embodiments shown in figures 3, 5, 6, 7, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 25, and 28, the top wall 1110 of the conduit body 1100 defines an elongate inlet slot 1130. However, in alternative embodiments shown in figure 29a&b, the conduit body 1100 includes an outer wall 1140 that defines an outer face 1142, and the defined by the outer wall 1140. The inlet slot 1130 may be configured for receiving at least part of a saw blade 3100 during the cutting of masonry tiles, bricks, blocks, stone and / or other masonry products. The inlet slot 1130 may be centrally located along the top face 1112, or alternatively the inlet slot 1130 may be located to the side of the top face 1112. Preferably the elongate inlet slot 1130 extends parallel to an edge 2300 of the upper working face 2200 of the working table 2000.

[0128] The hollow conduit body 1100 further includes a side for abutment wall 1120 that may define a preferably planar abutment face 1122. In a preferred embodiment, the topface 1112 and the abutment face 1122 may extend substantially orthogonally or at right angles to each other. In use, when the conduit body 1100 is connected to the working table 2000, the conduit body is configured to be disposed below the plane of the working face 2200 of the working table 2000. In this way, tiles 5000 can be moved around on the working face 2200, and can be extended over the edge 2300 without being impeded by the conduit body 1100.

[0129] The conduit body 1100 may further define one or more outlet ports 1150. Preferably the outlet port 1150 is configured for attaching a vacuum hose 4000, as may be found on any vacuum cleaner. It is also envisaged that the outlet port 1150 may be configured for attaching a vacuum hose 4000 that may be integrated with the workbench 2000.

[0130] The conduit body 1100 may further define a plurality of funnels 1160 (as shown in figures 1, 5, 6, 7, 12 a -h, 14g, 15g, 21, and 23a-b) for guiding dust carried on an air stream from the inlet slot 1130 to the outlet port 1150.

[0131] The conduit body 1100 encloses a vacuum chamber 1105 through which dust generated by an operation performed on the work bench 2000 is sucked in use.

[0132] In alternative embodiments (not shown), it is envisaged that a plurality of inlet slots 1130 may be provided. Further, in alternative embodiments (not shown) it is envisaged that a plurality of outlet ports 1150 may be provided.

[0133] It is envisaged that the conduit body 1100 may be composed of a main body 1040 that may be composed of a preferably lightweight polymer, and a slot surround 1050 that defines or surrounds the slot 1130, and is composed of an abrasion resistant material such as steel, iron or another metallic material. An example of a main body 1040 that can be connected to an abrasion resistance slot surround 11050 are shown in figures 21 and 39. It should be noted that the slot surround 1050 and the main body 1040 may be preferably removably connectable to each other by a connecting arrangement. A wide variety of suitable connecting arrangement will be apparent to a person skilled in the art, including fasteners, press fit, snap fit, and similar arrangements.

[0134] A further example is shown in figure 40, where an L-shaped steel plate is used as a slot surround 1050, and can be fastened by fasteners 1055 to a lightweight preferably plastic and body 1040. It should be noted that in figure 40, a plurality of funnels 1060 are provided that are covered by

[0135] In preferred embodiments (shown in figures 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 12a-h, 14a-g, 15a-g, and 23a-b), the top wall 1110 and an upper portion of the conduit body 1100 may belocated in an upper section 1010, while the funnels 1160 may be located in a middle section 1020, and the lower portion of the conduit body 1100 and the outlet port 1150 may be located in a lower section 1030. Preferably the upper section 1010 extends parallel with the table edge 2300 and table side 2400 of the working table 2000. It is envisaged that the funnels 1160 may allow for more consistent airflow velocities along the length of the inlet slot 1130. It is further envisaged that an increased number of funnels 1160 will allow for more consistent airflow velocities along the length of the inlet slot 1130. This is illustrated in figure 24, which shows how the air velocity in metres per second decreases as the distance from the left-hand end of the inlet slot increases. Figure 17 illustrates how the air velocity in metres per second changes as a function of the distance from the left-hand edge of the slot 1130 in centimetres for the embodiments shown in figures 14 a - f. Further, figure 13 shows how the air velocity in metres per second changes as a function of the distance from the left and edge of the slot 1130 in centimetres for the embodiments shown in figures 12c, 12g, 12d and 12h.

[0136] However, in alternative embodiments as shown in figures 18 - 20, and 25 - 36, the conduit body 1100 is shown as an elongate tube 1102, and an outlet port 1150 may be provided at at least one, and preferably both ends of the elongate tube 1102. In this regard, a port cap 1152 may be provided for closing one of the outlet ports 1150 if a pair of vacuum nozzles are not available. Preferably the elongate tube 1102 extends parallel with the edge 2300 of the working table 2000.

[0137] It is also envisaged that a hose adapter 1153 (shown in figure 40) may be provided for facilitating the coupling of the outlet port 1150 with particular types of vacuum hose 4000

[0138] The connecting arrangement 1200 is configured for facilitating the connection of the conduit body 1100 to the side of the workbench 3100 at the table edge 2300, preferably such that the abutment face 1122 is in snug abutment with the table side 2400, and the top face 1112 extends horizontally and in alignment or flush with the working face 2200 of the workbench 2000. Preferably, the connecting arrangement 1200 is configured so that the entire dust reduction device 1000 is located below the plane of the upper working face 2200 of the workbench 2000 as shown in figures 1 - 7, 12, 14, and 15. In these embodiments, tab formations 1220 are provided on which a clamping arrangement 1210, such as a known bar clamp 1230 (examples of which are shown in figure 22), may be seated. The tab formations 1220 may preferably be provided on opposed sides of the conduit body 1100, although this need not necessarily be the case.

[0139] Preferably the connecting arrangement 1200 allows for the removable connection of the dust reduction device 1000 to the working table 2000. This allows for the portability of the dust reduction device 1000.

[0140] The bar clamp 1230 may include a fixed jaw 1232 that is fixed to an elongate bar 1234, as well as a sliding jaw 1236 that is configured to slide along by 1234, and be fixed in position by a detent (not shown).

[0141] The tab formations 1220 may extend in parallel with the table edge 2300 as parallel tab formations 1220a, or transversely to the table edge 2300 as transverse tab formations 1220b. It is envisaged that the parallel tab formations 1220a can be located in abutment with the table side 2400, while the transverse tab formations 1220b can be located in abutment with protrusions extending from the tableside 2400. Alternately, clamps 1230 can be attached to the transverse tab formations 1220b for transport and storage.

[0142] Preferably the tab formations 1220 include a recess 1222 into which a portion of the clamping arrangement 1210 may be seated. Figure 8 illustrates a cross-section of the edge 2300 of a workbench or working table 2000, and figure 9 illustrates how a formation 1220 can be clamped to the side 2400 of the workbench 2000 by a known bar clamp 1230. It is of course envisaged that an alternative embodiment (not shown) the dust reduction device 1000 may include its own integrated and / or purpose-built clamping arrangement 1210, which could be similar to the known bar clamp 1230, except that the fixed jaw 1232 is securely connected to the tab formation 1220. Alternative clamping arrangements are envisaged, and would be readily understood and appreciated by persons skilled in the art. Figure 6 shows a pair of bar clamps 1230 engaged with the parallel tab formations 1220a, while figure 7 shows a pair of bar clamps 1230 engaged with the transverse tab formations 1220b.

[0143] Alternatively, as shown in figures 25 - 38, the conduit body 1100 may be located below the plane of the upper working face 2200 of the workbench 2000, with the top face 1112 being in alignment and flush with the upper working face 2200, while the connecting arrangement 1200 is provided as a pair of brackets or hooking formations 1240 that extend over the top of the upper working face 2200 of the workbench 2000 and are received into slots in the working table 2000.

[0144] The connecting arrangement 1200 is configured for facilitating the connection of the conduit body 1100 to the table side 2400 of the workbench 3100 at the table edge 2300 such that the abutment face 1122 is in snug abutment with the table side 2400, and the top face 1112 extends horizontally and in alignment or flush with the working face2200 of the workbench 2000. Preferably, the connecting arrangement 1200 is configured so that the entire dust reduction device 1000 is located below the plane of the upper working face 2200 of the workbench 2000. Alternatively, only the entire conduit body 1100 is located below the plane of the upper working face 2200 of the workbench 2000.

[0145] In alternative embodiments (not shown) it is envisaged that a plurality of inlet slots may be provided. In a further alternative embodiments (not shown) it is also envisaged that a plurality of outlet ports may be provided.In use

[0146] It is envisaged that the dust reduction device 1000 will be used as described below with reference to figures 1 - 23. Initially the dust reduction device 1000 as described above will be provided. The tab formations 1220 will then be located against the table side 2400 and / or against protrusions extending from the working table 2000. Clamping arrangement 1210, preferably in the form of fire clamps 1230 will then be used to clamp the tab formations 1220 against the tableside as illustrated in figure 9.

[0147] A vacuum hose 4000 can then be connected to the outlet port 1150, which may be facilitated by using a hose adapter. The vacuum can then be switched on to generate an airflow into the inlet slot 1130, through the conduit body 1100 and out of the outlet port 1150 into the vacuum hose 4000.

[0148] A tile 5000 or other similar masonry item can then be located on the working face 2200 of the working table 2000 and can be freely moved over the edge 2300 of the working table. A saw 3000, or similar items such as a grinder cut, can then be used to perform a cutting, grinding, polishing or similar operation on the masonry item. Preferably, as the saw 3000 is used to cut through the masonry item, the saw blade 3100 may be at least partly received within the elongate inlet slot 1130, facilitating the suctioning of any dust generated by the operation.Example 1

[0149] An example device of the invention is shown in Figures 1 - 3. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and certain features and certain views of the Figures may be shown exaggerated in scale or in schematic for clarity and / or conciseness.

[0150] The device can be nominally divided into 3 sections (Figure 1): a. Upper section 1010 comprising the cutting surface and slot 1130 as well as the means for attaching the dust reduction device 1000 to the work bench 2000 or platform.b. Middle section 1020 comprising the vacuum chamber / airflow distribution chambers. c. Lower section 1030 comprising the vacuum outlet port 1150.

[0151] The upper section 1010 can be represented as an elongate rectangular tube 1102 with at least the top face 1112 and the abutment / read face 1122 being flat and square to each other define the cutting surface and attaching to the work bench or platform, respectively. A slot 1130 is cutout along the longitudinal axis. In a preferred embodiment, the slot 1130 is positioned at one edge of the tube 1102, as this provides the least hindrance and obstruction to the power tool 3000. End walls 1170 close off the rectangular tube 1102 at opposed ends, the end walls 1170 defining and faces 1172 that are most conveniently flat and square to the top face 1112 and outer / rear faces 1142. Alternatively, the end walls 1170 may be curved.

[0152] The middle section 1020 pneumatically connects the upper section 1010 and the lower section 1030 containing the vacuum outlet port 1050 and provides a smooth transition between the two. The single open vacuum chamber 1105 of the upper section 1010 connects to two funnels 1160, which bifurcates the airflow, thus achieving an airflow distributed along the length of the slot.

[0153] The lower section 1030 contains the vacuum port 1150 for connecting the vacuum hose 4000. Due to the proliferation of different sizes of vacuum hoses within the industry, the port may require an adapter (not shown) to fit a particular hose. The dimensions of the port 1150 may suit vacuum hoses from various manufacturers and may fit inside internal surface or wrap around the external surface.

[0154] Aluminium work platforms (trestles) 2100 are very common across many building trades and most tilers will own and use them. One vertical face of the upper section 1010 is flat so that it can be pressed against one edge 2300 and table side 2400 of the work platform 2000. A means for attaching and detaching the device, in the form of a connecting arrangement 1200, to a portable work bench 2000 or platform is provided, such that the tube 1102 sits flush with the top surface 2200 of the bench 2000 and the slot 1130 is located at the edge opposite to that that abuts the platform (Figure 4). In this example the “quick grip” bar clamps 1230 are used for attaching the device 1000 to the bench 2000, although other clamps or screw mechanisms may be used. It will be understood to those skilled in the art that other means of temporarily attaching the tube 1102 to a work platform can be used. Hence the current invention makes use of existing equipment to provide a stable support surface for the cutting or polishing. Moreover, thecurrent invention enables the entire work platform to be used as a support surface for large tiles 5000, unlike the prior art cutting boards, which become large and unwieldy as their size is increased.

[0155] In some embodiments the main body 1100 of the invention is less than 102 mm wide, not including the fittings 1220 for attaching to a work bench or platform 2000.

[0156] In a more preferred embodiment the main body of the invention is less than 51 mm wide, not including the fittings for attaching to a work bench or platform. The smaller size improves the portability of the invention and aids more efficient removal of debris from the internal chamber of the tube during use.

[0157] In a more preferred embodiment the main body of the invention is less than 38 mm wide, not including the fittings for attaching to a work bench or platform. The smaller size improves the portability of the invention further. As the width of the invention is decreased the risk of the blade or disc striking the internal side of the opposite face is increased, which can damage the blade or disc and also disturb the operator.

[0158] In some embodiments of the invention the cutting slot 1130 may be greater than 60 cm in length and preferably greater than 70 cm in length. The length of the tube 1102 is chosen to accommodate the desired slot length. Longer slots 1130 enable cuts to be completed in a single pass without requiring the repositioning of the tile 5000.Example 2

[0159] Figure 5 shows a rendering of an exemplary invention.

[0160] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is constructed of aluminium, which is lightweight and rust resistant. Further advantage of aluminium is that it is rugged and will resist the rigors of being transported both manually and also within vehicles amongst other tiling equipment and paraphernalia, as well as the general rigors of a construction site on a daily basis. The hard nature of aluminium also makes it more resistant to damage when contacting the saw blade, particularly along the length of the slot. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that other metals, alloys or hard materials can be used in place of aluminium.

[0161] In some embodiments the invention maybe constructed of polymeric materials, including polymers reinforced with fillers and additives. The softer polymeric materials further decrease the weight but will tend to be excessively eroded when such contact is made. Overtime, with repeated contact of the saw blade or disc the slot will be wideneddecreasing the dust removal efficiency of the device and hence limiting the usable lifetime of the device.Example 3

[0162] This example illustrates the benefit of the long, narrow design of the current invention, which enables much greater access by the handheld power tool. Figure 18 shows a schematic of the exemplary invention when used for cutting and the critical clearances between the invention and the tool are shown as dashed circles. In addition, the operator’s hand and fingers are not shown in this schematic and would place further restriction on access by the tool if the if the slot were located in the middle of a wide platform such as the aforementioned boards. As may be seen in figure 18, a useful depth of penetration by the blade 3100 is possible (shown as arrow B).

[0163] Figure 19 shows a schematic of the exemplary invention highlighting the freedom of obstruction to the grinder (shown by Arrow A) offered by the exemplary invention when simulating cutting mitres. Note how the grinder body extends below the plane of the tube, which is impossible if the slot is located in the middle of a wide platform.

[0164] Figure 20 shows a schematic of the exemplary invention highlighting the freedom of obstruction to the grinder tool offered by the exemplary invention when simulating polishing a mitre edge using a thick polishing disc. Again, note that the grinder tool body extends below the plane of the tube, which is impossible if the slot is located in the middle of a wide platform. In addition, because of the angle of use during this polishing process, if the slot 1130 were located on the upper surface the disc would be making contact with the edge of the slot.Example 4

[0165] This example shows an exemplary invention comprising two pieces. The first piece, the main body 1040, is constructed of plastic, e.g., ABS, PVC or other polymeric material or composite and the second piece, is a slot surround 1050 constructed of aluminium or other metal. The slot is cutout of one faces and along one edge of the main body. Both parts are illustrated in Figures 21 and 39. The two pieces are subsequently fused or otherwise connected together to form a single device replicating the arrangement described in Example 1. However, in this instance, the exemplary invention possesses the hybrid features of the lighter weight of a plastic body and the metal slot surround retains the resistance to gouging offered by the exemplary invention of Example 2.Example 5

[0166] This example shows the different types of bar clamps that are commercially available, and the design features that prevent optimal operation of the invention. Some examples of commercially available clamps are listed in the following table. Table 1 Examples of commercially available quick grip / ”one-handed” bar clamps

[0167] Figure 8 shows the configuration the edge of a common aluminium work bench 2000 or platform and how the design of the clamps or clamping arrangement 1210 that is similar to that of a bar clamp 1230 may be modified to provide optimal operation for attaching and detaching the device 1000. The side faces 2400 of the platform of common aluminium work benches / trestles or platforms 2000 typically comprises a 3 mm thick aluminium channel piece that is 40 mm high with 20 mm walls. The underside of the platform 2000 also contains ribs 2500 that extend down approximately 10 mm from the top face, which the sliding jaw 1236 must also clear. The sliding jaw 1236 of the clamp 1210 is modified such that the top of this jaw 1236 is no longer aligned with the top of the other jaw and instead aligns at least 3 mm below and more preferably, at least 10 mm below the other top of the other fixed jaw 1232. These modifications clear the jaw 1236 from the obstructions of the common aluminium work benches / trestles or platforms 2000. In addition, the jaw 1236 extends forward further to provide clearance around the lower channel wall. None of the clamps listed in Table 1 have sufficient clearance to clear the channel wall and to close onto the channel. In addition, the bar 1234 is shortened such that at the maximum opening the sliding jaw is at least 25 mm from the rear face of the device and no more than 55 mm apart (including any rubber feet attached to this jaw). More preferably, at maximum opening the jaw 1236 sits just below the first rib 2500 extending from the underside of the top face (Figure 8). This automatically aligns the clamp at the right height when it is slipped onto the trestle, such that with a few presses of the trigger the device can be efficiently clamped to the trestle without requiring further realignment and manipulation. In addition, the clamp 1210 may also comprise a solid body in the form of a safety cap 1238 fitted to the end of the bar 1234 that extends outwards from the face of the work bench 2000 and protects the operator from the otherwise sharp ends of the bar 1234.Example 6

[0168] This example shows that a more that the airflow can be better distributed by using a bifurcated air path, yielding 2 vacuum chambers instead of a single air path and vacuum chamber. Several models were made from plastic (Poly lactic acid, PLA) by fused deposition modelling 3D printing. The models varied in depth, width and the number of air paths (single or double) and these are summarized in Table 2 below. The embodiment shown in figure 14a had the centre of the vacuum port aligned with centre of the top face (i.e. 18 mm from the inside front edge of the slot), whilst all the other models had the vacuum port aligned with the centre of the slot (i.e. 11 mm from the inside front edge of the slot). All of the models comprised a slot 700 x 22m located at one edge of the top face. Whilst not affecting the airflow, the models also differed in the number and types of clamp tabs and positions. The embodiments shown in figures 14e and 14f had tabs 1220 for clipping Irwin Quick Grip clamps into at each end. The embodiment shown in figure 14 b had a simple flat surface tab at each end. The embodiments shown in figures 14a, c, d, and g had two sets of tabs for clipping Irwin Quick Grip clamps into; one set at each end and also a set on the front face. All the vacuum ports were 36 mm internal diameter although the outside profile of the ports was varied, although this does not influence the internal airflow. Some models had elliptical outer profiles for the vacuum ports, whilst others had cylindrical profiles with 42 mm OD. The latter is preferred as it offers two modes of connection: a. Inserting into the vacuum port, which suits the sizes used in many commercial vacuum hose connectors, and b. Fitting around the vacuum port, which enables fitting larger vacuum hoses, connectors and adapters.

[0169] For each of the models shown in figure 14, the airflow at various positions along the length of the slot was measured using a portable hot wire anemometer (Benetech GM8903). The results are plotted in Figure 17 for the models shown in figures 14a - 14f. In addition, it was observed that for embodiment of figure 14a the airflow was greater at the rear edge of the slot 1130 than the front edge of the slot. For the other models flows at the edges of the slots were similar.Table 2 Features of Models #14a - #14gExample 7

[0170] This example shows that the airflow distribution can be influenced by the relative positioning of the pneumatic connections shown in Figures 10 and 11. With reference to Figure 10, vacuum Y-ports 1154 are connected to the mid-funnel port 1155, which is in turn connected to the top of the funnel 1160 that is situated in the bottom face of the top-box or rectangular tube 1102. The top box or rectangular tube 1102 is a hollow box that has the cutting slot 1130 positioned in the top surface. In Figure 11 , the relative positions of the vacuum Y-port 1154, the two mid-funnel ports 1155 are varied from the positions used for embodiment shown in figure 14g (Referred to as #14g). In addition, some devices have an extension to the left hand end of the top box. For the purposes of this example, the dimensions of the features shown on the right as well as the length of the two mid-funnel slots are fixed as shown. The positions of the features relative to their position in #14g is listed in Table 3 (in mm).

[0171] Each of the models listed in the above table were made from plastic (Poly lactic acid, PLA) by fused deposition modelling 3D printing. Brims were added to the design to assist with the FDM printing process and drawings of each of the models is shown in Figure 12 with these brims attached. After printing the brims were removed, the models attached to the side of a work bench and a vacuum attached (Ryobi Model RVT-1530IPT- G). The airflow at various positions along the length of the slot 1130 was measured using a portable hot wire anemometer (Benetech GM8903). The results are plotted in Figure 13 for Models 12c, 12g, 12d and 12h. Model #14g is the same as #12a.Table 3 Variations from Model #14g for features 1 -4 (shown in Figure 11) used to generate Models #12b-12h. All measurements are mm.Example 8

[0172] This example shows further evaluation of the models under real world conditions. There are several factors that affect the airflow when used for cutting and polishing that aren’t accounted for during the velocity measurements of the preceding examples, such as: a. the fast rotation of the blade or disc of the angle grinder, b. placing a tile 5000 on top of the device obstructing airflow, c. the grinder blade or discs impart momentum to the dust and debris created by the cutting or polishing of a tile, d. the natural variation of cutting and polishing motions by an operator, e. variation between operators

[0173] Thus, testing of the models with different types and sizes of tiles, including mosaic (or finger) tiles was conducted. All of the models were effective at reducing the dust, however some models showed additional benefits. Model #14g was preferred over the single path designs and subsequent models with a bifurcated path that biased the airflow to the left hand side showed additional benefit when starting the cut or the polishing. Generally, there was an initial plume of dust at the start of a cutting or polishing stroke, so this additional benefit at that stage of the operation was desirable.Example 9

[0174] This example shows an exemplary invention comprising two pieces. The first piece, the main body 1040, is constructed of plastic, e.g., ABS, PVC or other polymeric material or composite and is shown in Figure 21. The second piece, is a slot surround 1050 constructed of aluminium or other metal. The metal slot surround 1050 comprises a right angle with the slot 1130 cut into one face and along one edge and is illustrated in Figure 39. The two pieces 1040, 1050 are fused, connected or bonded together to form a single device 1000 replicating the arrangement described in Example 1. However, in this instance, the exemplary invention possesses the hybrid features of the lighter weight of a plastic body and the metal slot surround retains the resistance to gouging offered by the exemplary invention of Example 3.Example 10

[0175] This example shown in figure 40 shows an exemplary invention comprising the main body, constructed of plastic and a slot surround constructed of stainless steel. The slot is cutout of the top face of the stainless steel and adjacent to the front edge and is illustrated in figure 40. The metal slot surround 1050 comprises an inverted channel and attaches to the plastic body to the front and rear faces of the main body with rivets1105. Prior to attaching the steel piece a flow splitter is inserted between the front and rear faces of the main body and fixed with screws1056. A removable vacuum boot or adapter 1153 is attached to the bottom of the main body to form a single device replicating the arrangement described in Example 1. However, in this instance, this embodiment possesses the hybrid features of the lighter weight of a plastic body and the metal slot surround retains the resistance to gouging offered by the embodiment discussed in Example 3.

[0176] The overall dimensions of this model are similar to the embodiment shown in figure 12d, although the cutting slot is reduced to 680 mm long. The surround was constructed from 1.2 mm thick stainless steel plate. The main body and the flow splitter was made from plastic (Poly lactic acid, PLA) by fused deposition modelling 3D printing. The removable vacuum boot was made from flexible thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) filament by fused deposition modelling 3D printing. After printing, support structures were removed, the device assembled as described above and is depicted in Figure 40. It was attached to the side of a work bench and a vacuum attached (Ryobi Model RVT-1530IPT-G). The airflow at various positions along the length of the slot was measured using a portable hot wire anemometer and the results are shown in Figure 41.Example 11

[0177] In another example the invention may comprise two pieces, however the metal slot surround 1050 may not be permanently connected and / or bonded and / or fused to the plastic body. Instead, the metal slot surround 1050 can be removably connected and disconnected to the plastic body. In a preferred embodiment the top section (Figure 1) is constructed of aluminium and the middle and lower sections are constructed of plastic and the middle section clips into the top section.Example 12

[0178] In another example shown in figures 23 a and b, the invention may comprise a quadfurcated airway path. The overall dimension of this model are similar to #12d, but the mid-funnel sections are made smaller and two extra mid-funnel sections are added. The four paths join at the vacuum port as shown in Figure 23. The model was made from plastic (Poly lactic acid, PLA) by fused deposition modelling 3D printing After printing the brims were removed, the models attached to the side of a work bench and a vacuum attached (Ryobi Model RVT-1530IPT-G). The airflow at various positions along the length of the slot was measured using a portable hot wire anemometer and the results are shown in Figure 24.Example 13

[0179] A further example device is shown in Figures 25 - 27. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and certain features and certain views of the Figures may be shown exaggerated in scale or in schematic for clarity and / or conciseness.

[0180] A rectangular tube 1102 has vacuum ports 1150 at each end for attaching vacuum hoses and / or a sealing cap 1152.

[0181] A slot 1130 is cutout along the longitudinal axis. In a preferred embodiment, the slot 1130 is positioned at one edge of the tube 1102, as this provides the least hindrance and obstruction to the power tool 3000. When used for tile cutting, most often this slot 1130 will be positioned on the top face 1112 of the tube 1102. In addition, this positioning of the slot 1130 also enables a second use position if the tube is rotated about the longitudinal axis by 90 degrees and flipped end to end. This places the slot 1130 at the upper edge of the vertical face. This position is most suited to polishing of cut edges.

[0182] A connecting arrangement or means for attaching and detaching the tube 1102 to a portable work bench 2000 or platform is provided, such that the tube 1102 sits approximately flush with the top surface 2200 of the bench 2000. In figures 25 - 27 this is shown as rectangular hooks or hooking formations 1240. Aluminium work platforms 2000 are very common across many building trades and most tilers will own and use them. The hooks 1240 slide over the edges 2300 of most common work platforms 2000. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other means of temporarily attaching the tube 11 ,002 to a work platform 2000 can be used. Hence the current invention makes use of existing equipment to provide a stable support surface for the cutting or polishing, unlike prior art cutting boards, which sit on top of the platform 2000. Moreover, the current invention enables the entire work platform 2000 to be used as a support surface for large tiles, unlike the prior art, which become large and unwieldy as their size is increased.

[0183] In a preferred embodiment of the invention hooks 1240 are attached to two faces, enabling the attachment of the dust reduction device 1000 to a work platform 2000 in two different orientations. One orientation when attached, shown in Figure 28, with the slot 1130 on the top face is well suited to tile cutting. The second orientation, shown in Figure 29b, shows the slot 1130 at the upper edge of the outer face 1142, vertical face is well suited to polishing of tile edges. The ability of the invention to be attached to the work platform 2000 in these different orientations means that reduced obstruction to the handheld power tool 3000 is achieved.

[0184] In some embodiments of the invention, a vacuum hose 4000 is connected to both ends of the tube 1102. The hoses 4000 can be from a single, split vacuum source or two separate vacuum sources for increased suction. This is advantageous for longer tubes 1102 and slots 1130 to accommodate longer tiles, e.g., 1.2 m long tiles, that can then be cut in a single cut.

[0185] In a preferred embodiment of the invention the vacuum hose 4000 is attached at one end of the tube and the other end is capped by a port 1152. Those skilled in the art will identify that during use the rotation of the blade or disc will propel most of the debris towards one end of the tube. This is the best end to attach the vacuum hose 4000 and in this configuration the momentum of the debris and vacuum act in synergy.Example 14

[0186] A further embodiment of the invention is shown in Figures 30 and 31. In this embodiment of the invention, the conduit body 1100 is constructed of aluminium, whichis lightweight and rust resistant. Further advantage of aluminium is that it is rugged and will resist the rigors of being transported both manually and also within vehicles amongst other tiling equipment and paraphernalia, as well as the general rigors of a construction site on a daily basis. The hard nature of aluminium also makes it more resistant to damage when contacting the saw blade be thousand 100, particularly along the length of the slot 1130. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that other metals, alloys or hard materials can be used in place of aluminium.

[0187] In some embodiments the invention maybe constructed of polymeric materials, including polymers reinforced with fillers and additives. The softer polymeric materials further decrease the weight, but will tend to be excessively eroded when such contact is made. Overtime, with repeated contact of the saw blade or disc 3100 the slot 1130 will be widened decreasing the dust removal efficiency of the device and hence limiting the usable lifetime of the device.Example 15

[0188] This example illustrates the benefit of the long, narrow design of the current invention and the ability to use it in two orientations, which collectively enables much greater access by the handheld power tool 3000. The two orientations of attachment are shown in figures 32 and 33. Note that attachment brackets or hook formations 1240 seen on the top of the work bench in figure 32 can be seen extending from the lower face in figure 33.

[0189] Figure 34 shows a photograph of an exemplary invention in a first orientation highlighting the freedom of obstruction to the grinder 3000 offered when simulating cutting mitres. Note how the grinder body extends below the plane of the tube 1102, which is impossible if the slot is located in the middle of a wide platform.

[0190] Figure 35 shows a photograph of the exemplary invention in a first orientation highlighting the freedom of obstruction to the grinder offered when simulating polishing a mitre edge using a thick polishing disc. Again, note that the grinder body 3000 extends below the plane of the tube 1102, which is impossible if the slot is located in the middle of a wide platform. In addition, because of the angle of use during this polishing process, if the slot 1130 were located on the upper surface the disc would be making contact with the edge of the slot 1130.Example 16

[0191] This example shows an exemplary invention comprising two pieces. The first piece, the main body 1040, is constructed of plastic, e.g., ABS, PVC or other polymeric material or composite and the second piece, is a slot surround 1050 constructed of aluminium or other metal. The slot 1130 is cutout of two faces and along one edge of the main body 1040 and is illustrated in figures 36 and 37. The metal slot surround 1050 comprises a right angle member 1052 with the slot 1030 cut into one face and along one edge and is illustrated in Figure 38. The two pieces are fused together to form a single device replicating the arrangement described in Example 1. However, in this instance, the exemplary invention possesses the hybrid features of the lighter weight of a plastic body and the metal slot surround retains the resistance to gouging offered by the exemplary invention of Example 3. In an alternative embodiment, the two pieces 1040, 1050 need not necessarily be permanently connected and may be removably connectable to each other.Example 17

[0192] This example shows an exemplary invention comprising two pieces similar to the previous example 16, however the metal slot surround 1050 is not fused to the plastic main body 1040. Instead, the metal slot surround 1050 can be connected and disconnected to the plastic body. The metal slot surround 1050 is removable and can be removably connected to the main body in two orientations. One orientation positions the slot on the top face and the second orientation positions the slot at the upper edge of the outer vertical face. In this embodiment only one set of attachment points, such as the hooks 1240 shown in figure 25, are required.InterpretationDefinitions

[0193] In order for the present disclosure to be more readily understood, certain terms are defined below. Unless defined otherwise herein, technical used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure is related.

[0194] Units, prefixes, and symbols are denoted in their Systeme International de Unites (SI) accepted form. Numeric ranges are inclusive of the numbers defining the range. The headings provided herein are not limitations of the various aspects or embodiments ofthe disclosure, which can be had by reference to the specification as a whole. Accordingly, the terms defined immediately below are more fully defined by reference to the specification in its entirety.

[0195] Approximately or about: As used herein, the term “approximately” or “about,” as applied to one or more values of interest, refers to a value that is similar to a stated reference value. In certain embodiments, the term “approximately” or “about” refers to a range of values that fall within 20%, 19%, 18%, 17%, 16%, 15%, 14%, 13%, 12%, 11 %, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1 %, or less in either direction (greater than or less than) of the stated reference value unless otherwise stated or otherwise evident from the context (except where such number would exceed 100% of a possible value).

[0196] The term “including” is used to mean “including but not limited to.” “Including” and “including but not limited to” are used interchangeably.

[0197] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[0198] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. For the purposes of the present invention, additional terms are defined below. Furthermore, all definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms unless there is doubt as to the meaning of a particular term, in which case the common dictionary definition and / or common usage of the term will prevail.

[0199] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular articles “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise and thus are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. to “at least one”) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, the phrase “an element” refers to one element or more than one element.

[0200] The term “about” is used herein to refer to quantities that vary by as much as 30%, preferably by as much as 20%, and more preferably by as much as 10% to a reference quantity. The use of the word ‘about’ to qualify a number is merely an express indication that the number is not to be construed as a precise value.

[0201] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “comprise”, “comprises” and “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated step or element or group of steps or elements but not the exclusion of any other step or element or group of steps or elements.

[0202] The term “real-time” for example “displaying real-time data,” refers to the display of the data without intentional delay, given the processing limitations of the system and the time required to accurately measure the data.

[0203] As used herein, the term “exemplary” is used in the sense of providing examples, as opposed to indicating quality. That is, an “exemplary embodiment” is an embodiment provided as an example, as opposed to necessarily being an embodiment of exemplary quality for example serving as a desirable model or representing the best of its kind.

[0204] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and / or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

[0205] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and / or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of’ will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “oneor the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0206] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and / or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.Embodiments:

[0207] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0208] Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than areexpressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Description of Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Description of Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[0209] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.Specific Details

[0210] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

[0211] It will be appreciated that the methods / apparatus / devices / systems described / illustrated above at least substantially provide a dust reduction device.

[0212] The dust reduction device described herein, and / or shown in the drawings, are presented by way of example only and are not limiting as to the scope of the invention. Unless otherwise specifically stated, individual aspects and components of the dust reduction device may be modified, or may have been substituted therefore known equivalents, or as yet unknown substitutes such as may be developed in the future or such as may be found to be acceptable substitutes in the future. The dust reduction device may also be modified for a variety of applications while remaining within the scope and spirit of the claimed invention, since the range of potential applications is great, and since it is intended that the present invention be adaptable to many such variations.Terminology

[0213] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially","peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.Different Instances of Objects

[0214] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.Combinations of features in embodiments

[0215] Different features are described in different embodiments in this specification, however it is envisaged that any features shown in any embodiment described may be used with any other features in any other embodiment in any combination, unless this is not logically possible.Comprising and Including

[0216] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[0217] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements / features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.Scope of Invention

[0218] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the blockdiagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[0219] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.Chronological order

[0220] For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be carried out in chronological order in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.Markush groups

[0221] In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognise that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.Industrial Applicability

[0222] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the construction and trades industries.

Claims

Claims1. A dust reduction device for reducing ambient dust from a dust source generated by an operation on a working table that defines an upper working face, the dust reduction device including: a. a conduit body, the conduit body being configured for guiding the dust from the dust source to a remote location; b. at least one or more connecting formations configured for facilitating the connection of the conduit body to the working table; c. wherein, in use, the conduit body is configured to be disposed below the plane of the upper working face of the working table.

2. The dust reduction device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the conduit body defines an abutment face configured for abutment with a side of the working table.

3. The dust reduction device as claimed in either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the conduit body defines a table face4. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the conduit body defines an inlet and an outlet.

5. The dust reduction device as claimed in either of claims 3 or 4, wherein the connecting formation is a configured for facilitating the connection of the conduit body to the working table such that the table face is flush with the upper working face of the working table.

6. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the inlet is an elongate inlet slot, and the elongate inlet slot is configured for receiving at least part of a saw blade during the operation7. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the dust reduction device includes a connecting arrangement configured for connecting the dust reduction device to the working table.

8. The dust reduction device as claimed in claim 7, wherein the connecting arrangement is a clamping arrangement.

9. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the table face is substantially planar.

10. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the conduit body defines an outer face opposed to the abutment face.

11. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the elongate inlet slot is defined in one or more selected from the table side face and the outer face.

12. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the conduit body is elongate and extends parallel with a side of the working table.

13. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the elongate inlet slot extends parallel to an edge of the upper working face of the working table.

14. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the connecting arrangement is configured for removably connecting the dust reduction device to the working table.

15. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the conduit body defines at least one or more funnels for guiding air from the inlet to the outlet in use.

16. The dust reduction device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the dust reduction device includes an inlet surround portion configured for surrounding the inlet, the inlet surround portion being composed of an abrasion resistant material.

17. The dust reduction device as claimed in claim 16, wherein the inlet surround portion is removably connectable to the conduit body.

18. The dust reduction device as claimed in claim 17, wherein the inlet surround portion is connectable to the conduit body in a plurality of configurations.

19. A dust reduction device for reducing ambient dust from a dust source generated by an operation on a working table that defines an upper working face, the dust reduction device including: a. a hollow conduit body including: i. a top wall defining a planar top face, the top wall defining an elongate inlet slot configured for receiving penetration of at least part of a saw blade during the operation, ii. a side wall defining a second face extending at right angles to the top face, iii. an outlet port configured for attachment to a vacuum source; and b. a connecting arrangement configured for facilitating the connection of the body to the side of a portable work bench or platform such that the secondface abuts the side of the work bench, and the top face containing the slot is horizontal, flush with the top of the work bench,20. The dust reduction device as claimed in claim 19, wherein the elongate inlet slot extends parallel to an edge of the upper working face of the working table. END

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