Power equipment with detection and reaction systems
AssigneeSd3, LLC
InventorStephen F. Gass
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Woodworking machines and safety methods for use with those machines are disclosed. The machines include a detection system adapted to detect one or more dangerous conditions and a reaction system associated with the detection system. The reaction system can include an explosive to trigger the system, and also can be configured to retract a cutting tool at least partially away from a cutting region upon detection of a dangerous condition by the detection system.
Claims12
A method of operating a woodworking machine, where the woodworking machine has a work surface defining a cutting region and a cutting tool that extends at least partially into the cutting region, the method comprising:
- moving the cutting tool;
- detecting a dangerous condition between a person and the cutting tool;
- and
- retracting the cutting tool below the work surface within approximately 14 milliseconds after the dangerous condition is detected by the detection system.
A woodworking machine comprising:
- a work surface defining a cutting region;
- a cutting tool positioned to extend at least partially into the cutting region;
- a detection system adapted to detect a dangerous condition between a person and the cutting tool;
- and
- a reaction system associated with the detection system and the cutting tool, where the reaction system is configured to retract the cutting tool below the work surface within approximately 14 milliseconds after the dangerous condition is detected by the detection system.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.