Router Template Jig with Interchangeable Joint Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for connecting woodwork pieces using routers are expensive and space-consuming due to the need for individual structures to form various connections, lacking a unified system for precise and accurate routing.
Innovation Solution
A template holding jig and workpiece joining jig system that allows for the secure attachment and alignment of templates and workpieces, enabling precise routing with interchangeable templates and adjustable features for different connection types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If individual structures are used for each connection type, then connection precision is maintained, but cost and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The jig system employs a universal base structure that can accommodate multiple connection types through interchangeable templates and adjustable components. The base jig remains constant while templates for different joints (dovetails, mortise and tenon, box joints, etc.) are swapped, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated jigs and reducing both space requirements and overall system complexity while maintaining precision for each connection type
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the routing process into separable components: a permanent base jig structure, interchangeable templates for different connection types, and adjustable fixtures. This segmentation allows the complex functionality of multiple connection types to be achieved through modular components rather than requiring a completely separate structure for each joint type, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving manufacturing precision
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple individual jigs are used for different connections, then each connection type can be precisely formed, but workshop space consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal jig base is designed to perform multiple connection types through the use of interchangeable templates and adjustable components. This eliminates the need to store multiple separate jigs in the workshop, significantly reducing space requirements while maintaining the ability to precisely form various connections by simply changing the template or adjusting the fixture position
3Manufacturing precision
If individual structures are used for each connection type, then connection accuracy is maintained, but overall system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of purchasing multiple specialized jigs for different connection types, the system uses one universal jig base that can be configured for various joints through interchangeable templates and adjustable fixtures. This reduces the total number of components needed, lowering material costs and overall system expenditure while maintaining connection accuracy through precise template design and adjustable positioning mechanisms
4Device complexity
If a unified jig system is used for multiple connection types, then cost and space are reduced, but template alignment and orientation precision must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The templates and adjustable fixtures are pre-configured with alignment features and reference marks that ensure correct positioning relative to the base jig before use. This preliminary preparation of alignment references eliminates the need for complex real-time alignment procedures, maintaining high template alignment precision while keeping the unified system simple and easy to operate
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates alignment mechanisms such as indexed positioning systems, reference grooves, or keyed interfaces that automatically ensure correct template orientation when mounted on the base jig. These mechanical alignment features replace the need for complex manual alignment procedures, maintaining manufacturing precision while preserving the simplicity of the unified system
Data Source
AI summary
A template holding jig for holding a template for use with a router for routing a workpiece is provided. The holding jig may also be part of a workpiece joining jig that includes a plurality of templates. The template holding jig includes a template support, a workpiece support and a template guide. The template support defines a template support plane. The workpiece support defines a workpiece support plane extending perpendicular to the template support plane. The template guide defines at least one abutment preventing motion of a template located on the template support parallel to a first axis being parallel to the workpiece support plane and parallel to the template support plane. The at least one abutment permits motion of the template parallel to a second axis being orthogonal to the workpiece support plane and perpendicular to the first axis and parallel to the template support plane.