Abstract: A bench type router/shaper which includes (i) a spindle drive pack which incorporates the motor and the spindle into a unitary package so as to establish and maintain a spacial relationship between the motor and the spindle, (ii) a semi-elastic drive belt encompassing the spindle and drive shaft which has a modulus of elasticity effective for providing effective power transmission while permitting removal and replacement of the drive belt without repositioning of the spindle and/or the drive shaft, (iii) a spindle adjustment mechanism for repositioning the longitudinal position of the spindle and thereby the depth of the cutter which includes a rotatable bell crank, a spindle in communication with the first extremity of the bell crank for linear movement of the spindle based upon rotational movement of the bell crank, and a rotatable handle in communication with the second extremity of the bell crank for producing rotation of the bell crank based upon rotation of the handle and (iv) a protective shield over t

Abstract: A highly accurate yet inexpensive bench saw fence which includes (i) a conduit with a featureless distal end for guiding a workpiece along a bench saw table, (ii) a clamping mechanism proximate the distal end of the conduit for clamping the fence to a bench saw table which includes a linear alignment ridge for guiding the bench saw table into proper contact with the clamping mechanism and ensuring proper alignment of the fence with respect to the bench saw table, and (iii) a rotatable control lever proximate the proximal end of the conduit in mechanical communication with the clamping mechanism for controlling movement of the clamping mechanism between a release position and a clamping position and by movement of the lever from a primary locking position to a secondary locking position, (iv) wherein rotation of the control lever causes concentric rotation of the path between the primary and secondary locking positions.

Abstract: A solid, dual arbor spindle including a central cylindrical section creating a central pulley surface, a large arbor longitudinally extending from the central section in a first direction, and a small arbor longitudinally extending from the central section in a second direction diametrically opposed to the first arbor. The central section of the spindle is rotatably retained between a pair of bearings which are confined in position between a pair of interconnected retaining rings.

Abstract: A guide fence providing an adjustable gap for accommodating variously configured cutting mechanisms which includes (i) a plurality of longitudinally elongated members having a generally V-shaped cross-section, and (ii) a means for releasable coupling a plurality of nested elongated members so as to create a planar guiding surface from a first lateral side of the nested members.

Abstract: Disclosed is a measurement system for providing a direct reading of a position on either side of a reference position. The system comprises a reader head including a reader element configured to move laterally with respect to a calibrated reference member for making a measurement relative to a reference position. The measurement system also includes mode display apparatus for increasing or decreasing the measurement which is displayed as the reader element moves away from or toward a selected side of the reference position.