End Mill (e.g., Router, Etc.) Patents (Class 409/182)
  • Publication number: 20080041495
    Abstract: A router bit that includes an arbor having a shank portion, a shaft portion and a collar section intermediate the shank portion and shaft portion. The router bit also includes at least one lower cutter having a body portion and at least two cutter blades and at least one upper cutter having a body portion and at least two cutter blades. Disposed between and defining a distance between the at least one lower cutter and the at least one upper cutter is at least one spacing element. The distance between the at least one lower cutter and the at least one upper cutter is adjustable by varying the number of spacing elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: George Vondriska
  • Patent number: 7325273
    Abstract: A suction device (2) for a hand-held power tool and which is releasably connected with the power tool, includes a suction blower wheel (20) for producing a suction air stream in a suction path (S) and located in the device housing (10), a rolling bearing (28) for supporting the suction blower wheel (20) in the device housing (10), a blower shaft (26) for driving the suction blower wheel (20), and a drive coupling (38) for rotatably frictionally connecting the blower shaft (26) with the drive shaft (42) of the hand-held power tool (4) in a connected condition of the drive shaft (42) with the blower shaft (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Thanner, Norbert Daam
  • Publication number: 20080008551
    Abstract: A router includes a motor housing, a motor provided in the motor housing driving a collet for turning a cutting tool, and a base for resting on a workpiece. Support columns mounted to the base allow the motor housing to move relative to the base in a direction parallel to the rotational axis of the cutting tool. The support columns are spaced apart in a direction transverse to the rotational axis, and the motor housing is connected to the support columns by means of support members spaced apart in a direction parallel to the rotational axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventor: Nigel Robson
  • Patent number: 7316528
    Abstract: An ergonomically designed router assembly includes a base assembly coupled with a motor casing including a grip assembly which provides an overall narrower profile to the router assembly. The grip assembly may relieves stress on the muscles and allows the operator to more securely grasp the router with one hand thus decreasing fatigue levels as compared to those routers which require both hands of the operator to be engaged for control over the router.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7316529
    Abstract: A router bit system includes a bit (or bits) and a bit holding assembly for attaching the bit to the drive shaft of a router without the use of additional hand tools. The bit holding assembly, which is attached to the drive shaft of the router, includes a chuck having a bore for receiving a shank of the bit. A collar for engaging and releasing the bit from the bit holding assembly slides between a first position for engaging the bit and a second position for releasing the bit. The collar is biased to the first position for engaging the bit. The bit is capable of being received in a standard collet-type bit holder, such as a standard router collet or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Phillips, John W. Schnell
  • Patent number: 7303364
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing convenient control of a power tool electrical system. A switch assembly includes a first actuator and a second actuator, which is disposed remotely from the switch and first actuator. The second actuator is connected via a coupling device, such that user manipulation of either the first or second actuator is capable of controlling electricity flowing to the motor. Including a second actuator may permit the user to retain greater control over the tool when turning the power on or off. In additional exemplary aspects, a coupling device included in the switch assembly is configured and arranged so as to prevent inadvertent damage to the power tool such as by accidental engagement of a shaft lock while the motor is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7293944
    Abstract: A power tool having a body, a tool bit holder protruding from the tool body for holding and rotating a tool bit about an axis of rotation, and an operator for operating the bit holder. The operator includes an annular member rotationally engageable with the bit holder for manual turning to tighten and/or release the bit holder, and a mount mounting the annular member to the tool body for movement between a non-operative position, rotationally disengaged from the bit holder, and an operative position, rotationally engaged with the bit holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Choon Nang Electrical Appliance Mfy., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tat Nin Lui
  • Patent number: 7290574
    Abstract: A support fixture for a hand-held power tool includes a base plate and a guide plate assembly supported for movement relative to the base plate to bring the working end of the power tool into contact with a workpiece on which the base plate is supported. The guide plate assembly includes a tool support housing configured for supporting the body of the power tool, and an overthrow nut assembly for threaded engagement with a threaded portion of the power tool adjacent the working end of the tool. The fixture includes a guide bushing that is top-loaded into a bushing collar defined in the base plate, in which the guide bushing is configured to engage a template supported on the workpiece. A threaded plug holds the guide bushing within the bushing collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Brad M. Baber
  • Patent number: 7290575
    Abstract: A hybrid router is disclosed that is capable of operating as a fixed or a plunge router wherein the preferred embodiment thereof comprises a motor assembly that has a housing containing a motor as well as operating handles attached to the housing and operating controls for operating the motor. The motor assembly can be removably installed in either a fixed base assembly or a plunge base assembly. The preferred embodiment has an adjustment knob that is located on the motor assembly that engages depth adjustment mechanisms of either the fixed and plunge base assemblies when the motor assembly is installed in the respective base assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: John B. Freese, Bjorn J. Gunderson, Robert H. Bruno
  • Patent number: 7290967
    Abstract: A dust extractor device of a router has rotatable dust trap part able to be connected with a foot plate of the router and arranged to the side of the routing tool underneath the foot plate, such dust trap part being open toward the routing tool. The foot plate has an access opening for the routing tool. The dust trap part is constituted by an extractor hood with a hood casing at least essentially centered on the axis of rotation and a hood floor. The hood casing and the hood floor extend in the peripheral direction through an angle equal to or less than 180°. The extractor hood is open at its top side and opens into the access opening. The top end region of the extractor hood is rotatably supported on a holder, which is detachably secured to the foot plate and in the position of use extends around the access opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Festool GmbH
    Inventors: Johannes Steimel, Bernhard Manz, Markus Stark, Arne Holtz
  • Patent number: 7281887
    Abstract: A mechanism and method for providing base end plunge router depth adjustment, such as when a router is utilized with a router table. The apparatus and method of the present invention permits accurate and efficient depth adjustment when utilizing a router with a router table. A router depth adjustment device includes an adjustment knob and indexer, so users are provided with the ability for measured depth adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: Mike Taylor
  • Patent number: 7275900
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an elevating mechanism, in particular to an elevating mechanism for routers, is configured for easy micro adjustment and coarse or macro adjustment. In an embodiment, a power tool includes a base configured to adjustably receive a motor housing for operating a working tool. A worm drive is pivotally coupled, in an eccentric configuration, to an eccentric lever. The eccentric lever is adjustably coupled to at least one of the housing or the base such that the eccentric lever is operable to cause the worm drive to be positioned into an engaged position with a rack assembly and a released position wherein the worm drive is remote from the rack assembly. The elevating mechanism is operable to permit rotational micro adjustment and macro manual adjustment wherein the worm drive is remote from the rack assembly for permitting coarse adjustment of the motor housing with respect to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Phillips, John W. Schnell
  • Patent number: 7264429
    Abstract: A collet assembly, for selectively attaching a tool accessory to a tool, having a collet nut rotatably connectable to the tool, a collet compressible by the collet nut, and a torque application feature movably connected with the tool. The torque application feature is cammingly actuated to engage the collet nut for compressing and loosening the collet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: Mark D. Miller
  • Patent number: 7261166
    Abstract: A power tool includes a housing having a motor provided therein and a switch provided within the housing for activating the motor. The power tool also includes a member configured for movement between a first position in which the motor is operating and a second position in which the motor is not operating. The member includes a first end retained in the housing at a first location, a second end retained in the housing at a second location, a body portion extending between the first end and the second end, and a beam extending from the body into the housing for selectively actuating the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Brad M. Baber, David Clarke
  • Patent number: 7255520
    Abstract: A mechanism and method for providing base end plunge router depth adjustment, such as when a router is utilized with a router table. The apparatus and method of the present invention permits accurate and efficient depth adjustment when utilizing a router with a router table. A router depth adjustment device includes an adjustment knob and indexer, so users are provided with the ability for measured depth adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: Mike Taylor
  • Patent number: 7251874
    Abstract: An electrical tool for planning and/or milling has a motor shaft, a working shaft connected with the motor shaft, wherein the working shaft is positioned perpendicular to the motor shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Juergen Stoeger
  • Publication number: 20070169847
    Abstract: A fixed base router has a base supporting an upright wall. A motor based driver assembly is received in a cylindrical interior space delimited by the wall and movable along a spiral path. A read-out system includes a position sensor that detects and applies the displacement of the driver assembly along the spiral path to a processor based circuit, which in turn generates a signal indicating the displacement and a display device showing up the displacement for visual inspection. The read-out system allows for precise positioning the driver assembly and thus setting a cutting depth of a tool bit carried on and driven by the driver assembly so that adjustment of positioning of the tool bit is made simple, readable and precise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Publication date: July 26, 2007
    Applicant: Positec Power Tools (Suzhou) Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Hongfeng Zhong
  • Patent number: 7237990
    Abstract: A surgical tool system with a handpiece and a cutting accessory that has inner and outer hubs. The handpiece has a spring biased lock ring that abuts a complementary stop member integral with the accessory outer hub to hold the accessory to the handpiece. An RFID chip is disposed against an inner wall of the accessory outer hub. An elastomeric seal pressed against the inner wall of the accessory outer hub provides environmental protection for the RFID chip. The seal has a rib that extends around the outer perimeter of the proximal end of the outer hub so as to form a seal between the accessory and an adjacent inner wall of the handpiece. Stop tabs extend inwardly from the seal to prevent the drive hub disposed inside the outer hub from falling out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventor: Wenjie Deng
  • Patent number: 7232280
    Abstract: A guide attachment for a rotary hand tool is disclosed that comprises a housing, an adapter and a removable base. The attachment is configured to remove grout from between adjacent tiles, such as floor or wall tiles. The housing of the preferred embodiment is configured to permit a tool bit to engage a work surface at the normal intersection of two planes. The removable base of the preferred embodiment permits the attachment to work on flat surfaces. The base is also reversible and contains multiple sets of guide points for guiding the tool bit along grooves that have different widths. The preferred embodiment can also include a vacuum adapter that is attachable to the housing and allows a vacuum hose to be coupled to the guide attachment for removing debris during operation. The configuration of the housing or locking mechanism accommodates adapters having different circumferences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Walter Bernardi, Michael Landt
  • Patent number: 7207361
    Abstract: An apparatus for use with a router that is adapted to secure a guide bushing to a base of the router includes a modified retaining nut that includes a plurality of extensions that extend radially away from the nut. Each extension includes a threaded hole that is adapted to receive a set screw. The retaining nut includes interior screw threads that cooperate with outside screw threads of the guide bushing. The guide bushing is disposed on one side of a hole provided in the base of the router and the retaining nut is lightly tightened secure the guide bushing in a recess provided in the router base. The set screws are then tightened and bear against the router base sufficient to urge the retaining nut away from the guide bushing thereby placing the screw thread of both under tension, while simultaneously engaging with the router base sufficient to retain the retaining nut in position relative to the router base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: James Perry Vice
  • Patent number: 7207362
    Abstract: A power tool, such as, for example a router. In some aspects, a router includes a base, a housing and a hand grip attachable to one of the base and the housing, and the hand grip may be contoured to fit a hand of an operator and may be at least partially formed of an elastomeric material. In some aspects, a router includes a housing and a hand grip connected to the housing. In some aspects, a router is operable above a workpiece and under a table. In some aspects, a router includes a base, a motor housing and an adjustment mechanism supported by at least one of the base and the motor housing for adjusting the position of the motor housing relative to the base. In some aspects, a case for a router includes a base plate operable to support a router with a bit attached to the router.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
    Inventors: Randy McDonald, Dale Borchardt, Troy Thorson, Jeffrey C. Hessenberger, Christopher Berg, Jeffrey S. Holly
  • Patent number: 7198442
    Abstract: The invention relates to a power tool such as a router which is provided to perform an operation on a work piece. The tool includes dust extraction apparatus to allow dust and debris to be removed from the location at which the work is performed and part of the extraction apparatus is movable between storage and in-use positions. When said part is moved to a storage position, an alternative dust extraction passage may be fitted in to the port or aperture. Typically, the part which is movable can be telescopically movable or alternatively, can be provided of a flexible member so as to be moved between extended and retracted positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: GMCA Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Mike Waldron
  • Patent number: 7165920
    Abstract: A system for attaching an accessory attachment to a rotary hand tool of the type having a body with a generally cylindrical nose end portion through which an output shaft passes. The preferred embodiment of the system has an attachment that has an attaching end which matingly engages the nose end portion of the hand tool, and includes a rotatable coupling with inner threads that engage outer threads on the nose portion. The nose portion of the hand tool also has at least one recess which is configured to receive at least one projection on the attachment which accurately angularly positions the attachment on the hand tool. The preferred embodiment has at least one complementary tapered recess and projection combination which facilitates easy insertion of the projection into the recess during attaching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Brad M. Baber
  • Patent number: 7158852
    Abstract: The present invention comprises methods of machining a workpiece. In one embodiment, a method includes positioning a workpiece in a first position in a process station of a machine system, and forming at least one check feature on the workpiece. A position of the check feature is then sensed while the workpiece is positioned in the first position, and one or more machined features are formed on the workpiece relative to the check feature while the workpiece is positioned in the first position. The workpiece is then moved from the first position to a second position within the process station, and a position of the check feature is again sensed while the workpiece is positioned in the second position. One or more machined features are then formed on the workpiece relative to the check feature while the workpiece is positioned in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Keith A. Young, Kevin G. Waymack, Ryan L. Hanks
  • Patent number: 7140817
    Abstract: A router bit system includes a bit (or bits) and a bit holding assembly for attaching the bit to the drive shaft of a router without the use of additional hand tools. The bit holding assembly, which is attached to the drive shaft of the router, includes a chuck having a bore for receiving a shank of the bit. A collar for engaging and releasing the bit from the bit holding assembly slides between a first position for engaging the bit and a second position for releasing the bit. The collar is biased to the first position for engaging the bit. The bit is capable of being received in a standard collet-type bit holder, such as a standard router collet or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Phillips, John W. Schnell
  • Patent number: 7131180
    Abstract: An attachment for a hand-held power tool, such as a rotary cutting tool, is disclosed. The attachment is configured for selective coupling to a rotary cutting tool and includes a handle that is substantially perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis of the rotary cutting tool when the attachment is coupled to the rotary cutting tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Robert K. Kopras, Al Uzumcu, Scott Adler, Brian Albrecht
  • Patent number: 7121775
    Abstract: A portable electrical tool includes a tip tool; a cylindrical housing accommodating a motor including a chuck attachably and detachably holding the tip tool at tip end of a rotation shaft; a base including a surface plate which slides on an upper surface of work material, and which allows the tip tool to protrude from the surface plate downwardly, a cylindrical portion including a cutout portion, and a lever having a cam surface, and rotatable to a fixed position and a release position. When the lever is in the fixed position, a gap at the cutout portion is narrowed to stop movement of the cylindrical housing. When the lever is in the release position, the cylindrical housing is movable by weight in the cylindrical portion. The tool includes a stopper to stop a rotation of the lever between the fixed position and the release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akira Onose, Hiroki Uchida
  • Patent number: 7114538
    Abstract: A system of machining a workpiece with a router bit includes a base plate for mounting in a recess in a router table having a work surface over which the workpiece is to be moved. The router is mounted underneath the plate with the bit projecting through a bit opening. Two suction openings through the base plate to the work surface are connected to a common suction duct with the openings being spaced from the bit opening so as to draw material from the bit over the work surface along the workpiece. The end plate of the router is attached to the base plate by a plurality of rotatable disks each having a slot for receiving a fastening screw. When using a centering system, the holes in the end plate can be aligned with the respective slot in the respective disk and the router clamped in place at a centered location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Inventor: Dean Robert Rosendahl
  • Patent number: 7108463
    Abstract: A support mechanism for selectively mounting a fixed base or plunge type router on a router table comprises a table plate having top and bottom sides and an opening therethrough having an opening axis, and a carriage beneath the table plate for supporting a router coaxial with the opening axis. Guide posts slidably support the carriage for axial displacement toward and away from the table plate, and adjusting screws rotatable relative to the table plate interengage with the carriage for rotation of the screws to displace the carriage relative to the table plate. The carriage includes a pair of carriage blocks interengaging with the guide posts and adjusting screws, and a router mounting plate which is removably mounted on the carriage blocks. The router mounting plate is provided with a plurality of sets of mounting holes, and each set is for mounting a different model router on the table plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: Richard M. Hummel
  • Patent number: 7108464
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing convenient control of a power tool electrical system. A switch assembly includes a first actuator and a second actuator, which is disposed remotely from the switch and first actuator. The second actuator is connected via a coupling device, such that user manipulation of either the first or second actuator is capable of controlling electricity flowing to the motor. Including a second actuator may permit the user to retain greater control over the tool when turning the power on or off. In additional exemplary aspects, a coupling device included in the switch assembly is configured and arranged so as to prevent inadvertent damage to the power tool such as by accidental engagement of a shaft lock while the motor is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7094011
    Abstract: A hand-held power tool includes a housing having a motor provided therein, a cutting accessory coupled to the motor and means for selectively directing a flow of air toward a point of cut of the cutting accessory. The flow of air acts to remove debris at the point of cut to improve visibility of the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Robert K. Kopras, Jason R. Kopras, Scott Adler, Douglas Seals, Ryan Rindy, Larry Gunseor, Daniel Bullis
  • Patent number: 7089979
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a router including a motor housing for at least partially enclosing a motor, a base having a sleeve for receiving the motor housing therein. The base is constructed to at least partially support the motor housing on a workpiece. The router additionally includes an electrical switch disposed substantially in a quadrant, defined by a first axis extending through generally opposing handles, and a second axis, extending normal to the first axis, and generally bisecting the motor housing, of the motor housing. Preferably, the electrical switch is disposed in the range of 30° (thirty degrees) to 60° (sixty degrees) from the second axis and particularly at approximately 45° (forty-five degrees) to allow for comfortable grasping of the motor housing/base, easy repeatable switch manipulation, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7089978
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a quick attach and detach mechanism for a tool attachment such as a router attachment for a router. The attachment system includes a mounting adapter which may be integrally formed with the router housing or attached to the router housing as a bolt-on plate. The system works by vertically installing the tool attachment with the mounting adapter and then twisting to secure the tool attachment to the mounting adapter. A rotational lock is provided to prevent the tool attachment from inadvertently backing off or coming loose. This lock can be manually actuated to allow for quick detachment when desired. The tool attachment system is shown in association with a router which has several disclosed benefits, however there may also be applications of the system in other types of tool attachments for which coverage is also sought.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Nomis LLC
    Inventors: Joe Karkosch, John R. Kochanski, Edward Adkins, Patrick J. Barkdoll
  • Patent number: 7073993
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for providing convenient control of a power tool electrical system. A switch assembly of the present invention includes a first actuator and a second actuator, which is disposed remotely from the switch and first actuator. The second actuator is connected via a coupling device, such that user manipulation of either the first or second actuator is capable of controlling electricity flowing to the motor. Including a second actuator may permit the user to retain greater control over the tool when turning the power on or off. In additional exemplary aspects, a coupling device included in the switch assembly is configured and arranged so as to prevent inadvertent damage to the power tool such as by accidental engagement of a shaft lock while the motor is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Porter-Cable Corporation
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7066695
    Abstract: A router mounting system is disclosed. A preferred embodiment of the router mounting system includes a router assembly, a first sub-base, and a router table. The router assembly and first sub-base include interlocking radial projections, recesses and discontinuities such that the first sub-base can be firmly attached to the router assembly quickly and without the use of tools or fasteners. This allows a user to interchangeably use a single router either in the hand mode of operation or in the table mode of operation with only a few seconds required to change betweens modes of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Bart Nuss
  • Patent number: 7052218
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for adjusting a depth of a table mounted plunge router. The apparatus includes a longitudinal base, a first endplate arranged on a first end of the base and a second endplate arranged on a second end of the base. A longitudinal groove is disposed in the base between the first and second endplate. A slide is provided which is disposed in the groove for movement in the groove. An adjustment mechanism is provided which enables movement of the slide in the groove. A cable in a cable housing connects the slide to the router. The adjustment mechanism enables adjustment of a depth of a plunge router bit. The present invention can be retrofitted to a wide variety of existing plunge routers, or provided as a feature of newly manufactured plunge routers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Christopher John Mussel
  • Patent number: 7029212
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for guiding the bit of a rotary hand tool along a corner of a work surface formed by two or more abutting surfaces, through use of a corner cutting apparatus which includes a corner cutting guide having a housing, defining an axis of the housing, and adapted for attachment of the rotary tool with the axis of the rotary tool extending through the housing along the axis of the housing. The housing also includes first and second guide walls, for engaging abutting walls at a corner of the work surface. The first and second guide walls are disposed substantially perpendicular to one another, and have respective outer surfaces which, if projected, would intersect to form a line lying in a common plane with the axis of the housing and oriented at an acute angle to the axis of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Nomis LLC
    Inventors: Edward Adkins, Patrick J. Barkdoll
  • Patent number: 7018149
    Abstract: A preferred embodiment router is disclosed having a housing which supports a motor wherein the housing is vertically movable along a pair of spaced vertical guide posts of a base structure and wherein the router includes a flexible baffle which can vertically expand and contract as the housing is moved relative to the base structure and wherein at least one post has a coil spring located within the baffle which is configured to bias the housing away from the base structure, with the coil spring having a generally hourglass shaped configuration. The configuration has outer end portions with larger coil diameters, both of which transition to a center portion with a smaller coil diameter. The hourglass configured coil minimizes the possibility of the coil buckling which could result in a loss of spring force as well as a distortion of the shape of the baffle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: John Freese, Kristopher Baker
  • Patent number: 6991008
    Abstract: A power tool, such as, for example a router. In some aspects, a router includes a base, a housing and a hand grip attachable to one of the base and the housing, and the hand grip may be contoured to fit a hand of an operator and may be at least partially formed of an elastomeric material. In some aspects, a router includes a housing and a hand grip connected to the housing. In some aspects, a router is operable above a workpiece and under a table. In some aspects, a router includes a base, a motor housing and an adjustment mechanism supported by at least one of the base and the motor housing for adjusting the position of the motor housing relative to the base. In some aspects, a case for a router includes a base plate operable to support a router with a bit attached to the router.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
    Inventors: Randy McDonald, Dale Borchardt, Troy Thorson, Jeffrey C. Hessenberger, Christopher Berg, Jeffrey S. Holly
  • Patent number: 6986369
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a router depth adjustment mechanism for minimizing rapid course depth adjustment for standard and plunge routers. Routers with rapid or course adjustment mechanisms may permit a router motor housing to drop suddenly, if the user in inattentive. Sudden adjustments may result in damage to the router and even user injury. The mechanism of the present invention includes a threaded shaft and a biased thread engaging member which may be disengaged for rapid adjustment. A restraining device and/or a break may be included to minimize the rate of change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Porter-Cable Corporation
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Greg K. Griffin, Derrick Kilbourne, Mark A. Etter, Ginger L. Allen
  • Patent number: 6951232
    Abstract: A power tool, such as, for example a router. In some aspects, a router includes a base, a housing and a hand grip attachable to one of the base and the housing, and the hand grip may be contoured to fit a hand of an operator and may be at least partially formed of an elastomeric material. In some aspects, a router includes a housing and a hand grip connected to the housing. In some aspects, a router is operable above a workpiece and under a table. In some aspects, a router includes a base, a motor housing and an adjustment mechanism supported by at least one of the base and the motor housing for adjusting the position of the motor housing relative to the base. In some aspects, a case for a router includes a base plate operable to support a router with a bit attached to the router.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
    Inventors: Randy McDonald, Dale Borchardt, Troy Thorson, Jeffrey C. Hessenberger, Christopher Berg, Jeffrey S. Holly
  • Patent number: 6948892
    Abstract: A lift mechanism for a plunge router mounted on the underside of a router table comprises an adjusting screw extending vertically beneath the table and being rotatable relative to the table from the top side thereof, and a lift arm threadedly engaged with the screw and having an end spaced from the screw and interconnected with the router, whereby rotation of the screw displaces the router relative to the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Richard M. Hummel
  • Patent number: 6929436
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming patterns in a flat, plastic material, such as, for example sheet vinyl, linoleum, and other flat sheet floor covering. The apparatus comprises a router die and trimmer base affixed to a router machine. The router die is comprised of two guiding members, a first guiding member that directs the router blade between an edge of a pattern and an edge of an overlay. A second guiding member follows the blade after the groove is cut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventor: Stephen Shannon
  • Patent number: 6926477
    Abstract: A jig assembly for use with work piece and a hand-held power tool having a cutting bit includes a first member and at least one insert. The first member has a first opening and is configured to be positioned adjacent a first side of the work piece. The at least one insert is configured to fit within the first opening in the first member and includes a second opening. At least one of the first opening and second opening is configured to allow a portion of the hand-held power tool to pass therethrough to contact the work piece and to act as a guide for the hand-held power tool as it removes material from the work piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Markus Allemann, Robert K. Kopras, Al Uzumcu, Scott Adler
  • Patent number: 6926479
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mechanism and method for providing base end plunge router depth adjustment, such as when a router is utilized with a router table. The apparatus and method of the present invention permits accurate and efficient depth adjustment when utilizing a router with a router table. A router depth adjustment device includes an adjustment knob and indexer, so users are provided with the ability for measured depth adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Porter-Cable Corporation
    Inventor: Mike Taylor
  • Patent number: 6918720
    Abstract: A circle forming apparatus (100) for a power tool and a method for using the apparatus provides for the formation of circles or circular apertures in a workpiece. A first arm (104) and second arm (106) are rotatably coupled, and a fastener allows a user to secure the first arm relative to the second arm. The second arm includes a pivot point (108), and the first arm includes means (102) for coupling the first arm to a power tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jason R. Kopras, Cory R. Boudreau, Douglas Seals
  • Patent number: 6913429
    Abstract: A bit retaining assembly for retaining a bit in a rotary tool, in particular a router such as a hand-held router, a table-mounted router, a pocket cutter, a laminate trimmer, a rotary cutout tool, or the like employs a planetary gear system for multiplying the torque applied to clamp the bit within a collet. The bit retaining assembly comprises a chuck for coupling the bit retaining assembly to the rotor shaft of the rotary tool. A collet is disposed in the chuck for receiving the bit. A nut threaded onto the chuck compresses the collet about the bit to secure the bit within the collet. A planetary gear system transmits torque applied to a housing member to the nut for rotating the nut on the chuck. Preferably, the planetary gear system multiplies the torque transmitted to the nut so that the torque transmitted to the nut is greater than the torque applied to the housing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Porter-Cable Corporation
    Inventors: Alan Phillips, John W. Schnell, John M. Beville
  • Patent number: 6896016
    Abstract: A plate joiner including a fence support, a drive, and a fence system. The fence support includes a cutter and a contact surface, which defines a cutter slot. The cutter is arranged and configured to protrude from fence support through cutter slot to make a plunge cut into a surface of a workpiece when the contact surface is pressed against the surface and the cutter is plunged into the workpiece by pushing on a rearward handle portion of the tool. The drive is arranged and configured to rotatably drive the cutter through a motor. A preferred fence system includes an angle adjustment system arranged and configured to position the fence at a wide range of fence angles and, at any selected distance from a top face of the workpiece to the fence, the distance from the top face of the workpiece to the cutter remains constant as the front fence angle is adjusted. A preferred fence system includes a trunnion which pivotally couples the front fence to the fence system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Porter-Cable Corporation
    Inventors: John C. Smith, Earl R. Clowers
  • Patent number: 6896454
    Abstract: An electric power tool including a housing 2 having a motive power 3, and a tool holder 19 coupled to said motive power 3 for receiving a cutting tool, a base plate 4 having an opening 5 through which said cutting tool extends, said base plate 4 being adjustable mounted to said housing by guide arms 6, 7, the position of said cutting tool being varied by adjusting the position of the base plate 4 relative to the housing 2, said tool holder 19 being able to extend through the opening 5 of the base plate 4 for easier access to the tool holder, a slave pin 24 in the housing 2 adapted to engage a recess in the tool holder to lock the tool holder 19 against rotation to enable single-handed removal of a tool from the tool holder 19 from above a tool table, such as a router table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Hills Industries Limited
    Inventors: Graham Gerhardt, Harry Szommer, Warren Brown
  • Patent number: 6896451
    Abstract: A plunge-type router is disclosed which is useful for either freehand or router table mounted operation. The router has a base and a motor housing assembly with the base being adjustable relative to the motor housing assembly and operates in a conventional plunge router operation, but has an depth rod adjusting and measuring mechanism that includes an electronic measuring system with a digital display and control functionality that enables a user to accurately measure the position of a depth rod and thereby accurately set a depth of cut value which is displayed on a digital readout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Stephen C. Oberheim