Rotatable member with work surfaces for a saw apparatus

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/354,898, which was filed on Jun. 27, 2016, and which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

This disclosure relates generally to power tools, and more specifically to a rotatable member with work surfaces for power tools.

Some power tools include work surfaces, which are changeable. For example, a saw apparatus may include an insert plate, which serves as a cutting area and which is mounted on a table of the saw apparatus by several screws, e.g. four or more screws. To change the cutting area, a user, generally, has to iterate through several turning actions of each of the screws to detach the current insert plate from the saw apparatus and attach a different insert plate onto the saw apparatus. However, such a configuration has several drawbacks, as it can take a significant amount of time and effort to attach, detach, and/or adjust these insert plates, as each of the aforementioned turning actions occurs along threads of the screws.

The following is a summary of certain embodiments described in detail below. The described aspects are presented merely to provide the reader with a brief summary of these certain embodiments and the description of these aspects is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Indeed, this disclosure may encompass a variety of aspects that may not be explicitly set forth below.

In an example embodiment, a rotatable member is mountable on a tabletop of a power tool apparatus. The rotatable member includes a first work surface and a second work surface. The first work surface is on a first side of the rotatable member. The second work surface is on a second side of the rotatable member. The second side is different from the first side. The rotatable member is configured to move into (a) a first position such that the first work surface is level with a top surface of the tabletop and (b) a second position such that the second work surface is level with the top surface of the tabletop.

In an example embodiment, a rotatable member is configured to rotate about a rotational axis that extends parallel to a main surface of a tabletop. The rotatable member includes a first work surface and a second work surface. The first work surface is on a first side of the rotatable member. The second work surface is on a second side of the rotatable member. The second side is different from the first side. The rotatable member is configured to be in (a) a locked state in which the rotatable member is held securely in place and (b) an unlocked state in which the rotatable member is configured to (i) transition from the first work surface to the second work surface, and (ii) transition from the second work surface to the first work surface.

In an example embodiment, a power tool apparatus includes at least a turntable and a power tool. The turntable is rotatable about a first rotational axis. The turntable includes a rotatable member with at least a first work surface and a second work surface. The first work surface is on a first side of the rotatable member. The second work surface is on a second side of the rotatable member. The power tool is configured to operate on a selected work surface of the rotatable member. The rotatable member is rotatable about a second rotational axis, which is perpendicular to the first rotational axis.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure are further clarified by the following detailed description of certain exemplary embodiments in view of the accompanying drawings throughout which like characters represent like parts.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a power tool apparatus according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a turntable according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a rotatable member, transitioning work surfaces, in an unlocked state according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the rotatable member, providing a secure work surface, in a locked state according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a top view of a mounting portion in relation to the turntable according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the rotatable member according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are perspective views of components of a locking mechanism according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of components of a locking mechanism according to an alternative example embodiment of the disclosure.

The embodiments described above, which have been shown and described by way of example, and many of their advantages will be understood by the foregoing description, and it will be apparent that various changes can be made in the form, construction and arrangement of the components without departing from the disclosed subject matter or without sacrificing one or more of its advantages. Indeed, the described forms of these embodiments are merely explanatory. These embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, and the following claims are intended to encompass and include such changes and not be limited to the particular forms disclosed, but rather to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling with the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a power tool apparatus according to an example embodiment of this disclosure. In an example embodiment, the power tool apparatus is a saw apparatus 100 , such as a miter saw apparatus. In FIG. 1 , for example, the saw apparatus 100 includes at least a saw-head unit 110 . In this example, the saw-head unit 110 includes at least a motor (not shown), a bevel lock knob 118 , a switch handle 116 , and a blade 114 . Also, in FIG. 1 , the saw apparatus 100 includes at least a base 102 , a turntable 104 , a miter lock knob 106 , a fence 108 , and the like. In an example embodiment, the turntable 104 includes at least a mounting portion 120 and a rotatable member 122 , as well as a locking mechanism (e.g., locking mechanism of FIGS. 7A-7B or locking mechanism of FIGS. 8A-8B ). Additionally or alternatively, the saw apparatus 100 can include other components, which have not been specifically mentioned.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the power tool is configured to coincide with one of the work surfaces of the rotatable member 122 . More specifically, in this example, the blade 114 is configured to operate on one of the work surfaces of the rotatable member 122 without contacting or cutting into a top surface (or tabletop) of the turntable 104 . In addition, the rotatable member 122 is configured to rotate, as shown in FIG. 3 , such that the blade 114 is configured to operate on another one of the work surfaces of the rotatable member 122 . In this regard, the rotatable member 122 is positioned within the turntable 104 .

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the turntable 104 according to an example embodiment. The turntable 104 includes a tabletop with a support surface 104 A, which is structured to support a workpiece. The turntable 104 comprises any suitable material. In an example embodiment, the turntable 104 is a metal material comprising at least one metal. In an example embodiment, the turntable 104 is rotatable relative to the base 102 . For instance, in this example, the turntable 104 is rotatable about a rotational axis A T such that a user is enabled to select a miter angle for the power tool. In an example embodiment, the saw-head unit 110 and the turntable 104 are configured to lock into a selected position corresponding to a selected miter angle by a locking device provided by miter lock knob 106 . Also, in an example embodiment, the turntable 104 includes a miter scale 112 ( FIG. 5 ) on the base 102 in which the current miter angle is viewable via an opening 104 B in a portion of the turntable 104 . In addition, the turntable 104 is provided with a rotatable member 122 with a plurality of work surfaces. To enable the power tool to utilize a selected one of the plurality of the work surfaces effectively, the rotatable member 122 is provided with an unlocked state and a locked state.

FIGS. 2-4 illustrate the rotatable member 122 in various states according to an example embodiment. More specifically, FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the locked state in which a first work surface 122 A of the rotatable member 122 is level or flush with the support surface 104 A of the turntable 104 . FIG. 3 , on the other hand, illustrates an example of the unlocked state in which the rotatable member 122 is configured to rotate within the turntable 104 and transition work surfaces 122 A/ 122 B/ 122 C. Meanwhile, FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the locked state in which a second work surface 122 B of the rotatable member 122 is level or flush with the support surface 104 A of the turntable 104 .

In an example embodiment, when the rotatable member 122 is in the locked state, the rotatable member 122 is prevented from rotating about its rotational axis A R . This locked state is advantageous in securely holding the rotatable member 122 such that the selected work surface is stable and secure for use in conjunction with the power tool. In contrast, in the unlocked state, the rotatable member 122 is free to rotate about its rotational axis A R . In this regard, for example, the rotatable member 122 is configured to rotate about its rotational axis A R in either a first direction (e.g., a clockwise direction) or a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise direction). This unlocked state is advantageous in enabling a user to quickly switch from one work surface to another work surface by simply moving the rotatable member 122 about its rotational axis A R . As shown in FIGS. 2-4 , the rotatable member 122 is positioned within the turntable 104 when in the locked state and when in the unlocked state. This feature is advantageous in that the user does not have to remove the rotatable member 122 from the turntable 104 to use a different work surface.

In an example embodiment, the turntable 104 is structured to include a mounting portion 120 for the rotatable member 122 . In an example embodiment, the mounting portion 120 and the turntable 104 comprise a monolithic structure. In this regard, for example, the mounting portion 120 and the turntable 104 comprise a single structure of the same material in which the features of the mounting portion 120 are an integral part of the turntable 104 . Alternatively, in an example embodiment, the mounting portion 120 and the turntable 104 are distinct components comprising same or different materials that are fixedly attached or connected to each other by, for example, welding, adhesive, or the like. In yet another embodiment, the mounting portion 120 and the turntable 104 are distinct components, which are attachable and detachable from each other, as shown in FIG. 5 .

FIG. 5 is a top view of the mounting portion 120 in relation to the turntable 104 according to an example embodiment. In this example embodiment, the mounting portion 120 is distinct from the turntable 104 . In this regard, for example, the mounting portion 120 comprises a metal material, a glass-filled nylon, a polycarbonate, a thermoplastic polymer (e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), a phenolic material, a plastic material, any suitable material, or any suitable combination thereof. For example, as shown, the mounting portion 120 is attachable to and detachable from the turntable 104 via mechanical fasteners 128 . For example, in this disclosure, a mechanical fastener refers to any hardware device that joins, affixes, or assists in the joining of at least two components to each other. Non-limiting examples of mechanical fasteners 128 include screws, clips, bolts, nuts, and other suitable devices. In an example embodiment, the surface 120 A of the mounting portion 120 is level or substantially level with the support surface 104 A of the turntable 104 . More specifically, in FIG. 5 , the mounting portion 120 has a surface 120 A that is flush or substantially flush with the support surface 104 A of the turntable 104 .

In an example embodiment, the mounting portion 120 comprises any suitable shape provided that the mounting portion 120 is configured to receive and accommodate the rotatable member 122 . In FIG. 5 , for example, the mounting portion 120 comprises a generally elongated shape with a curved portion 120 B at one end thereof and a tapered portion 120 C at an opposite end thereof. The curved portion 120 B is advantageous in distributing and handling stress, thereby increasing and improving the durability of the mounting portion 120 . Also, in FIG. 5 , the tapered portion 120 C is structured to effectively utilize a part of the space provided by the opening 104 B of the turntable 104 . In addition, the tapered portion 120 C enables the mounting portion 120 to fit securely and properly within the turntable 104 . Moreover, in this example embodiment, the shape of the mounting portion 120 is structured to ensure that the mounting portion 120 is properly oriented and installed in the turntable 104 . In this example, the mounting portion 120 is properly installed within the turntable 104 when the tapered portion 120 C, which includes the locking mechanism, is situated at an outer portion of the turntable 104 such that the locking mechanism is easily accessible to the user.

In an example embodiment, the mounting portion 120 includes an opening 120 E, as shown in FIG. 5 , to receive the rotatable member 122 . In an example embodiment, the opening 120 E provides sufficient clearance for the rotatable member 122 to rotate about its rotational axis A R within the turntable 104 . In addition, the clearance is sized such that at least a selected one of the work surfaces is configured to be level or flush with the support surface 104 A of the turntable 104 . In this regard, the mounting portion 120 is structured to accommodate the rotatable member 122 .

In an alternative example embodiment (not shown), the mounting portion 120 includes a recess portion, which is configured to receive the rotatable member 122 . More specifically, the recess portion includes a recessed surface, which is positioned below the support surface 104 A of the turntable 104 . The recess portion provides sufficient clearance for the rotatable member 122 to rotate about its rotational axis A R . In addition, the clearance is sized such that a selected one of the work surfaces of the rotatable member 122 is configured to be level or flush with the support surface 104 A of the turntable 104 . In this regard, the mounting portion 120 is structured to accommodate the rotatable member 122 .

In an example embodiment, the mounting portion 120 includes rotating structures 120 D at opposite ends of the opening 120 E. More specifically, one of the rotating structures 120 D is at least partly positioned within the curved portion 120 B and the other one of the rotating structures 120 D is at least partly positioned within the tapered portion 120 C. In an example embodiment, the rotating structures 120 D comprise any suitable mechanism that enables the rotatable member 122 to rotate within the mounting portion 120 . For example, in FIG. 5 , the rotating structures 120 D include grooves, which are structured to receive rotating rods 122 E of the rotatable member 122 as depicted in at least FIG. 3 . In this example, the grooves are structured such that the rotatable member 122 is configured to rotate via its rotating rods 122 E when in the unlocked state. In addition, the grooves are structured such that the rotating rods 122 E are securely seated therein when in the locked state.

In an example embodiment, the mounting portion 120 includes a device 120 F. In an example embodiment, the device 120 F is structured to receive a mechanical fastener, which connects a cover 126 ( FIG. 2 ) to the mounting portion 120 . For example, in FIG. 5 , the device 120 F includes a threaded hole to receive a screw, which is configured to connect the cover 126 to the mounting portion 120 . For example, in FIG. 5 , the device 120 F is a cylindrical structure, a rectangular structure, or any suitably shaped structure. In an example embodiment, the device 120 F is spaced from the rotating rods 122 E. However, in an alternative embodiment, the device 120 F is positioned such that a surface portion of the device 120 F is configured to engage with an end portion of one of the rotating rods 122 E. In this regard, the device 120 F is structured as a rotation point for one of the rotating rods 122 E such that the rotational member 122 is enabled to rotate in a proper manner.

In an example embodiment, the mounting portion 120 includes a lock receiving portion, which is configured to accommodate a locking mechanism. In FIG. 5 , for example, the lock receiving portion includes guide members 120 H, which are configured to receive a lock 124 ( FIG. 7B ). In an example embodiment, the guide members 120 H are positioned at opposite sides of the rotating structure 120 D within the tapered portion 120 C of the mounting portion 120 . More specifically, the guide members 120 H are structured such that the lock 124 as depicted in FIGS. 2-4 is configured to interact and engage with the rotatable member 122 to provide the unlocked and locked states. In this regard, for example, the guide members 120 H are slots, grooves, or groove-like formations, which are configured to receive guide rails 124 C of the lock 124 as depicted in FIG. 7B and enable the guide rails 124 C of the lock 124 to move therein by a sliding motion.

In an example embodiment, the mounting portion 120 includes ledges 120 G. For example, in FIG. 5 , the ledges are positioned at opposite sides of the rotating structure 120 D within the curved portion 120 B. In an example embodiment, the ledges 120 G are positioned such that there is sufficient clearance for at least the rotating structure 120 D, the device 120 F, and the rotating rods 122 E of the rotatable member 122 . With this configuration, the ledges 120 G are structured to provide support to the cover 126 ( FIG. 2 ).

In an example embodiment, the cover 126 is attachable and detachable from the mounting portion 120 by a mechanical fastener (e.g. a screw), which connects the cover 126 to the device 120 F. In an example embodiment, the cover 126 is structured to protect any underlying components, such as the rotating structure 120 D and the device 120 F. In addition, when the rotatable member 122 is mounted within the mounting portion 120 , the cover 126 is configured to protect one of the rotating rods 122 E of the rotatable member 122 . In an example embodiment, the cover 126 is configured to ensure that external factors, such as debris from the workpiece, do not influence, affect, or interfere with the rotational mechanisms of the rotatable member 122 .

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the rotatable member 122 according to an example embodiment. In an example embodiment, the rotatable member 122 is an elongated structure. In this regard, the rotatable member 122 is a suitable length such that a sufficient sized work surface is provided. More specifically, in this illustrated example, the rotatable member 122 is an elongated prism structure with at least a first work surface 122 A, a second work surface 122 B, and a third work surface 122 C. In this regard, for example, the first work surface 122 A is on a first side of the rotatable member 122 , the second work surface 122 B is on a second side of the rotatable member 122 , and the third work surface is on a third side of the rotatable member 122 . FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view in which two of the three sides of the rotatable member 122 are visible.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the rotatable member 122 includes a first end portion 200 A and a second end portion 200 B. In an example embodiment, the first and second end portions 200 A and 200 B include mechanical structures that enable the rotatable member 122 to rotate about its rotational axis A R . For instance, in FIG. 6 , the rotatable member 122 includes rotating rods 122 E (or rod-like structures 122 E) at each of the first and second end portions 200 A and 200 B. In this regard, the rotating rods 122 E enable the rotatable member 122 to rotate about its rotational axis A R , for example, when disposed within the grooves of the rotating structures 120 D of the mounting portion 120 . In an alternative embodiment, to enable the rotatable member 122 to rotate within the mounting portion 120 , the rotatable member 122 includes grooves of a suitable configuration instead of rotating rods 122 E at the first and second end portions 200 A and 200 B while the mounting portion 120 includes rotating rods 122 E instead of grooves as its rotating structures 120 D.

In an example embodiment, the rotatable member 122 is rotatable relative to the mounting portion 120 , the turntable 104 , or both the mounting portion 120 and the turntable 104 . For instance, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6 , the rotatable member 122 is configured to rotate about its rotational axis A R . In an example embodiment, the rotational axis A R of the rotatable member 122 is perpendicular to the rotational axis A T of the turntable 104 . In an example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3 , the rotational axis A R of the rotatable member 122 is parallel or substantially parallel to a top surface of the turntable 104 . In this regard, for example, the rotatable member 122 is similar to a rotatable drum or a rotatable drum-like structure.

In an example embodiment, the rotatable member 122 comprises a suitable material for the desired application. For instance, in an example embodiment, when applied to a miter saw apparatus, the rotatable member 122 comprises a glass-filled nylon, a polycarbonate, a thermoplastic polymer (e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), a phenolic material, a plastic material, any durable and cutable material, or any suitable combination thereof. In an example embodiment, the rotatable member 122 comprises a single material or a plurality of materials.

In an example embodiment, the rotatable member 122 includes a plurality of work surfaces, where the plurality of work surfaces comprise a single material or a plurality of materials. In this regard, for example, the rotatable member 122 and each of the plurality of work surfaces can be constructed of the same material. As another example, for instance, the rotatable member 122 includes at least a first work surface of a first material and a second work surface of a second material, where the first material is different from the second material. Such a configuration of the rotatable member 122 is advantageous in enabling a user to switch quickly between work surfaces of different materials with relative ease.

In an example embodiment, the plurality of work surfaces are the same structural type, different structural types, or any combination thereof. For instance, non-limiting examples of the different types of work surfaces include a zero-clearance work surface, a slotted work surface, an adjustable work surface, and the like. In general, the zero-clearance work surface is a flat surface without any slots, openings, through-holes, recesses, or the like. In this regard, for instance, the zero-clearance work surface is advantageous in providing full support and stability to the workpiece while enabling the user to cut into the work surface, if necessary. As an example of another type, the slotted work surface is generally a flat surface with a manufactured slot. In this regard, for instance, the slotted work surface is advantageously structured to provide clearance to a blade at different angles. Also, as an example of yet another type, the adjustable work surface generally comprises two parts in which a slot can be created based on the positioning of these two parts. The adjustable work surface is advantageous in that the size of the slot can be set by the user. Although not discussed in further detail, the rotatable member 122 can include other types of work surfaces.

In an example embodiment, the rotatable member 122 includes a vent comprising an aperture 122 H or any suitable structure that enables dust, chips, debris, and/or the like to pass through. Each aperture 122 H comprises any suitable shape. For example, in FIG. 6 , each aperture 122 H is rectangular or substantially rectangular in shape. In addition, each aperture 122 H is positioned at a location of the rotatable member 122 that does not interfere with the ability of any one of the work surfaces ability to provide stability and support to the workpiece. For example, in FIG. 6 , the rotatable member 122 includes apertures 122 H on edge portions of each of the first work surface 122 A, the second work surface 122 B, and the third work surface 122 C. More specifically, in FIG. 6 , each aperture 122 H on a first edge portion (or left edge portion) of the first work surface 122 A is aligned with a corresponding aperture 122 H on a second edge portion (or right edge portion) of the second work surface 122 B. Also, in FIG. 6 , each aperture 122 F on a second edge portion (or right edge portion) of the first work surface 122 A is aligned with a corresponding aperture 122 H on a first edge portion (or left edge portion) of the second work surface 122 B. In addition, each aperture 122 H on a first edge portion (or left edge portion) of the second work surface 122 B is aligned with a corresponding aperture 122 H on a second edge portion (or right edge portion) of the third work surface 122 C.

As discussed above, in an example embodiment, the apertures 122 F are strategically positioned on edge portions, which are aligned. This feature advantageously allows some of the particles from the workpiece to pass through the rotatable member 122 itself. For example, in FIG. 6 , the rotatable member 122 comprises a triangular prism shape, which is configured to direct some of the particles to an area outside of the rotatable member 122 . More specifically, in FIG. 6 , when particles (e.g., dust, chips, debris, or the like) pass through at least one of the apertures 122 F of the selected work surface, these particles may then pass through the rotatable member 122 and/or through the interior of the rotatable member 122 . In the latter case, the two non-selected work surfaces are inclined and configured to direct particles towards the vertex of the two non-selected work surfaces such that these particles are enabled to pass through the apertures 122 F at the vertex of the rotatable member 122 . Accordingly, the apertures 122 H, as shown in FIG. 6 , advantageously provide a vent or vent-like structure through which some particles can be removed from at least the selected work surface, as well as from the rotatable member 122 itself.

In an example embodiment, the rotatable member 122 includes at least one work surface, which is attachable and detachable from the rotatable member 122 via mechanical fasteners 128 . More specifically, the attachable and detachable work surface is provided by an insert plate 122 G. Each insert plate 122 G can include a work surface of any structural type (e.g., a zero-clearance work surface, a slotted work surface, an adjustable work surface, or the like). By being attachable and detachable, a work surface, provided by one insert plate 122 G, can be replaced with another work surface, provided by another insert plate 122 G, without replacing the rotatable member 122 itself. In addition, the user is able to customize the rotatable member 122 by changing one or more insert plates 122 G of the rotatable member 122 at any time (e.g., when the rotatable member 122 is disposed within the turntable 104 or when the rotatable member is removed from the turntable 104 ). In this regard, the rotatable member 122 can include any suitable number of insert plates 122 G. As a non-limiting example, FIG. 7A illustrates the first work surface 122 A as being an insert plate 122 G, which is attachable to and detachable from the rotatable member 122 via mechanical fasteners 128 that are strategically positioned so that they do detract from the first work surface 122 A and/or the power tool. FIG. 7A also illustrates the second work surface 122 B as being an insert plate 122 G, which is attachable to and detachable from the rotatable member 122 via mechanical fasteners 128 that are strategically positioned so that they do detract from the second work surface 122 B and/or the power tool. In this example, the insert plate 122 G, corresponding to the second work surface 122 B, includes a tab 122 I, thereby enabling the insert plate 122 G to be inserted or removed from the rotatable member 122 with ease. As discussed above, when the rotatable member 122 includes at least one insert plate 122 G, the rotatable member 122 can be customized with at least one work surface in accordance with the user's needs.

As aforementioned, the rotatable member 122 is configured to include a plurality of work surfaces, e.g., two or more work surfaces. For example, when accommodating two work surfaces, the rotatable member 122 is configured to be any suitable geometric shape having at least two sides, where each side is configured to include a work surface of any structural type. In this regard, for instance, when accommodating two work surfaces, the rotatable member 122 comprises a plate, which is structured with sufficient thickness such that each of its two work surfaces is able to provide separate and non-interfering cutting paths for the blade 114 . In this example, the first work surface is positioned on one side of the plate and the second work surface is positioned on an opposite side of the plate.

As another example, when accommodating three work surfaces, the rotatable member 122 is configured to be any suitable geometric shape having at least three sides, where each side is configured to include a work surface of any structural type. In FIG. 6 , for example, the rotatable member 122 is configured as a triangular prism in which the three work surfaces comprise the three elongated sides of the triangular prism. As shown, each work surface of this geometric shape provides sufficient space for a cutting path of the blade 114 . More specifically, in this example, the rotatable member 122 includes a first work surface 122 A of a slotted type (e.g., a work surface with slot 122 D), a second work surface 122 B of a zero-clearance type, and a third work surface 122 C of a zero-clearance type. Alternatively, the rotatable member can include any arrangement of these work surfaces with respect to the sides of the rotatable member 122 .

Although embodiments involving rotatable members 122 with two work surfaces and three work surfaces were discussed above, the rotatable member 122 is configured to include any suitable number of work surfaces. In this regard, for example, although not specifically discussed in detail above, the rotatable member 122 can be configured with four or more work surfaces. For example, in a case in which the rotatable member 122 includes four work surfaces, the rotatable member 122 can comprise a rectangular prism shape or any suitable geometric shape with at least four sides. In this regard, the geometric shape of the rotatable member 122 is not limited provided that the rotatable member 122 is able to provide a plurality of work surfaces, which are appropriate for the power tool.

As discussed above, the rotatable member 122 is provided with a plurality of work surfaces. In order to enable a user to select and utilize one of the plurality of work surfaces, the rotatable member is provided with the unlocked state and the locked state. In an example embodiment, these states of the rotatable member 122 relative to the mounting portion 120 can be provided by a suitable locking mechanism. For instance, FIGS. 7A-7B and FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate example embodiments of locking mechanisms.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are perspective views of components of the locking mechanism according to an example embodiment. More specifically, in this example embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a lock 124 , which is configured to interact and engage with the rotatable member 122 . In this regard, for example, the lock 124 is configured to move from a first position ( FIG. 3 ), which provides the unlocked state, to a second position ( FIGS. 2 and 4 ), which provides the locked state. In addition, the lock 124 is configured to move from the second position ( FIGS. 2 and 4 ), which provides the locked state, to the first position ( FIG. 3 ), which provides the unlocked state. In an example embodiment, the lock 124 is spring-loaded such that the movements of the lock are coordinated with the movements of a spring (not shown), which is retained, for example, by spring retainer 1201 ( FIG. 5 ) of the mounting portion 120 .

In an example embodiment, the lock 124 includes a recess portion 124 A, which enables a user to easily manipulate and move the lock 124 . In addition, in an example embodiment, the lock 124 includes guide rails 124 C, which are positioned at opposite sides of the lock 124 . In an example embodiment, the guide rails 124 C of the lock 124 are configured to slide within the guide members 120 H ( FIG. 5 ) of the mounting portion 120 such that the lock 124 is configured to transition from the unlocked state to the locked state, and vice versa.

In an example embodiment, the lock 124 includes a contoured part 124 D, which is structured to receive a rotating rod 122 E of the rotatable member 122 . In an example embodiment, the contoured part 124 D is configured to hold the rotatable member 122 when engaged with the lock 124 in the locked state. In addition, the contoured part 124 D enables the lock 124 to slide into the second position and over the rotating rod 122 E such that an end surface of the lock 124 contacts an end surface 122 F of the rotatable member 122 , as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 . In addition, the contoured part 124 D is structured with sufficient clearance such that the rotatable member 122 is able to rotate when the lock 124 is in the first position and in the unlocked state.

In an example embodiment, when the lock 124 is in the first position and in the unlocked state, the mating members of the lock 124 are spaced from the mating members of the rotatable member 122 by a gap, as shown in FIG. 3 . In this regard, since the lock 124 does not mate with the rotatable member 122 , the rotatable member 122 is free to rotate in any direction. In contrast, when the lock 124 is in the second position and in the locked state, the mating members of the lock 124 are engaged with the mating members of the rotatable member 122 , as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 . In this regard, since the lock 124 is engaged with the rotatable member 122 , the rotatable member 122 is held in place and unable to rotate.

In an example embodiment, the rotatable member 122 includes mating members on one end surface 122 F of either the first end portion 200 A or the second end portion 200 B. For example, in FIG. 7A , the mating members of the rotatable member 122 are female members 130 A, 130 B, and 130 C. In this regard, each of the female members 130 A, 130 B, and 130 C are structured to mate with any one of the male members 124 B of the lock 124 . Alternatively, in another example embodiment (not shown), the mating members are reversed from that of FIGS. 7A-7B such that the rotatable member 122 includes the male members (e.g., three male members 124 B) and the lock 124 includes the female members (e.g., two female members 130 A and 130 B).

In an example embodiment, the lock 124 is configured to provide a locked state to a selected work surface by mating with the corresponding mating members of the selected work surface. For example, in FIGS. 7A-7B , the male members 124 B of the lock 124 are configured to mate with the corresponding female members 130 A and 130 B of the first work surface 122 A when the first work surface 122 A is level or flush with the support surface 104 A. On the other hand, the male members 124 B of the lock 124 are configured to mate with the corresponding female members 130 B and 130 C of the second work surface 122 B when the second work surface 122 B is level or flush with the support surface 104 A. Also, in another instance, the male members 124 B of the lock 124 are configured to mate with the corresponding female members 130 C and 130 A of the third work surface 122 C when the third work surface 122 C is level or flush with the support surface 104 A. As demonstrated above, the rotatable member 122 is configured to securely hold and lock any one of the work surfaces when properly positioned.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of components of a locking mechanism according to alternative example embodiment. More specifically, in this example embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a cam lock 132 , which is configured to be mounted on the mounting portion 120 . In an example embodiment, the cam lock 132 is positioned within the mounting portion 120 at a location that is similar to that of lock 124 ( FIG. 2 ) so that the user is provided with easy access to the cam lock 132 . In addition, the cam lock 132 is positioned within the mounting portion 120 such that the cam lock 132 is configured to interact and engage with the rotatable member 122 . More specifically, the cam lock 132 is configured to rotate from a first position, which provides the unlocked state, to a second position, which provides the locked state. In addition, the cam lock 132 is configured to rotate from the second position, which provides the locked state, to the first position, which provides the unlocked state.

In an example embodiment, the cam lock 132 includes a handle 132 A on an upper surface of the cam lock 132 such that the user is able to rotate the cam lock 132 with ease. In addition, in an example embodiment, the cam lock 132 has a cam surface 132 B, which is ramp or ramp-like and which includes a lower part 132 C and an upper part 132 D. In this regard, for example, when the handle 132 A is rotated in a first direction, the cam lock 132 is configured rotate into the first position in which the lower part 132 C faces the rotatable member 122 to provide the unlocked state. In addition, when the handle 132 A is rotated in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, the cam lock 132 is configured to rotate into the second position in which the higher part 132 D faces the rotatable member 122 to provide the locked state.

In an example embodiment, when the cam lock 132 is in the first position and in the unlocked state, the cam surface 132 B provides sufficient clearance for the rotatable member 130 . More specifically, the lower part 132 C of the cam surface 132 B is positioned below one of the protruding portions 134 A, 134 B, and 134 C of the rotatable member 122 such that there is a gap between the cam surface 132 B and the corresponding protruding portion of the selected work surface. As a result of this gap, the rotatable member 122 is free to rotate in any direction. In contrast, when the cam lock 132 is in the second position and in the locked state, the upper part 132 D of the cam surface 132 B is configured to tightly abut against the corresponding protruding portion of the selected work surface of the rotatable member 122 such that the rotatable member 122 is unable to rotate.

In an example embodiment, the protruding portions 134 A, 134 B, and 134 C are disposed on at least one end surface 122 F of the rotatable member 122 . As discussed above, each of the protruding portions 134 A, 134 B, and 134 C is configured to engage and interact with the cam surface 132 B of the cam lock 132 . As shown in FIG. 8A , for example, each of the protruding portions 134 A, 134 B, and 134 C protrude outward from the end surface 122 F of the rotatable member 130 . In this regard, each of the protruding portions 134 A, 134 B, and 134 C is sized to engage with the cam surface 132 B to provide the unlocked state and the locked state, as discussed above.

In an example embodiment, there is a one-to-one correspondence between each of the protruding portions 134 A, 134 B, and 134 C and each of the work surfaces of the rotatable member 122 . For example, in FIG. 8A , the protruding portion 134 A corresponds to the first work surface 122 A. Also, the protruding portion 134 B corresponds to the second work surface 122 B. In addition, the protruding portion 134 C corresponds to the third work surface 122 C. Accordingly, with these structural components, the cam lock 132 is configured to securely hold a selected one of the plurality of work surfaces of the rotatable member 122 such that the selected work surface is level or flush with the support surface 104 A and available for use.

As discussed above, the rotatable member 122 provides a number of advantages. For example, the rotatable member 122 enables the user to quickly switch between multiple work surfaces without necessarily requiring the user to unscrew and screw a plurality of screws. In effect, this translates into improved efficiency and productivity. In addition, since the rotatable member 122 itself is configured to provide more than one work surface within the turntable 104 , there is no need to store a conventional insert plate, as a spare, within a different region of the apparatus or elsewhere.

In addition, the rotatable member 122 enables a user to transition from one work surface to another work surface by a simple rotational movement. That is, the user does not need to use a tool, such as a screwdriver, to utilize a different work surface. In addition, after the selected work surface is in proper position, a user is able to quickly lock the selected work surface into position without using a tool, such as screwdriver, to do so. In this regard, the rotatable member 122 is beneficial in requiring less time, effort, and resources for a user to transition from one work surface to another work surface.

That is, the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive, and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Those skilled in the art can appreciate from the foregoing description that the disclosure may be implemented in a variety of forms, and that the various embodiments may be implemented alone or in combination. Therefore, while the embodiments of the disclosure have been described in connection with particular examples thereof, the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments, and the true scope of the embodiments and/or methods of the disclosure are not be limited to the embodiments shown and described, since various modifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner upon a study of the drawings, specification, and following claims. For example, components and functionality may be separated or combined differently than in the manner of the various described embodiments, and may be described using different terminology. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of the disclosure as defined in the claims that follow.