Router Template Jig with Interchangeable Joinery Guides
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current woodworking methods for connecting workpieces using routers are expensive and space-intensive due to the need for multiple individual structures for different connections, lacking a unified solution for precise and accurate routing.
Innovation Solution
A template holding jig and workpiece joining jig system that allows for the proper orientation and adjustment of templates relative to workpieces, enabling precise router motion with interchangeable templates and adjustable features for various connection types, including dovetails, mortise and tenon, dowels, and other joints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple individual structures are used for different connection types, then each connection type can be properly formed, but the cost and space required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The jig system is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple connection types through interchangeable templates. The base jig structure remains constant while different templates (for dovetails, mortise and tenon, dowels, etc.) are swapped in to achieve different joining functions, eliminating the need for multiple separate specialized jigs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the jig into modular components: a permanent base structure and removable templates. This segmentation allows the templates to be exchanged for different connection types while the base structure remains, reducing the overall complexity by reusing common elements across different connection methods.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple individual structures are used for different connection types, then each connection type can be properly formed, but the space occupied in the workshop increases
Solution Approach 1:
By creating a universal jig that can accommodate multiple connection types through template interchangeability, the physical footprint in the workshop is reduced from multiple separate structures to a single multi-functional platform.
Solution Approach 2:
Different templates can be stored within or alongside the base jig structure when not in use, allowing the system to occupy minimal space while maintaining the capability to perform various connection types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If templates are fixed to the template support, then the template cannot be moved for different connection types, but if templates are removable, then proper orientation and positioning may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The templates are pre-configured with positioning features (such as alignment pins, guide slots, or keyed interfaces) that ensure correct orientation and positioning when attached to the template support. This preliminary design of attachment mechanisms allows templates to be both removable for interchangeability and precisely positioned when in use.
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.