Abstract: The present invention provides a precision miter gauge for orienting and positioning a workpiece relative to a cutting tool. The miter gauge reduces positioning errors and improves repeatability. The miter gauge includes a base and a body pivotably connected to the base. A positioning edge of the body contains a plurality of teeth between which a positioning member connected to the base is inserted and locked in place. In this manner, relative movement of the positioning body relative to the base is inhibited.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus used with materials fabrication power tools to reduce errors associated with loose-fitting materials fabrication guides. The present invention provides a materials fabrication surface having a slot and a guide variably positionable within the slot and capable of mounting a fixture such as a miter gauge. The guide includes an expandable member coupled to the guide member such that, upon expanding, the distance between the guide and the walls of the slot can be reduced. By reducing the distance between the guide member and the slot walls, inaccuracies associated with the guide member-to-slot interface are eliminated. In this manner, a fixture, such as a miter gauge, can be mounted and used on the guide and used with the power tool to increase accuracy and repeatability associated with the materials fabrication operations.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a universal precision positioning jig for woodworking and other operations that is of lightweight and efficient design and that has micro positioning capability. The disclosed positioning comprises a carriage riding on elongated planar bearing plates on a fixed base. Two bearing plates are located at 45.degree. angles on one side of the base and are used in conjunction with a positioning mechanism located on an opposite side of the base for clamping the carriage to the base. The carriage is of lightweight, double hollow construction. The positioning mechanism utilizes complementary toothed racks for fixing the carriage to the base. A hinged swing rack mounted to the base engages a toothed rack on the swing rack with a toothed rack on the base, and is clamped into the engaged position using primary and secondary clamping levers. The secondary clamping lever is used to sustain general positioning of the carriage while allowing micro positioning.

Abstract: A centering apparatus intended for use with a woodworking device having a cutting tool and fence for positioning the center of a work-piece in exact alignment with the center of the cutting tool. The centering apparatus comprising an elongate member having a first end, a second end, parallel longitudinal sides and a center hole located at the center of the elongate member. A swiveling right angle bracket for engaging one of two opposing parallel surfaces of a work-piece is connected to the first end. Connected to the second end is a contact member for contacting a guiding fence. A cylindrical dowel pin for pivoting the centering apparatus about the center hole of the elongate member is aligned with the geometric center of the cutting tool with one end of the cylindrical dowel pin extending through the center hole of the elongate member and the other end positioned within the chuck of the cutting tool.