CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to International Application No.

PCT/US2009/037352, filed 17 March 2009, said application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] The invention relates to the field of cutting machines, and more particularly, to cutting machines including a liquid lubrication delivery system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Typical tile and masonry saws have cooling mechanisms because as the blade rotates and cuts through a piece of tile, the friction between the blade and the tile generates heat. Such heat can be damaging to the blade. Several solutions exist to solve this problem.

[0004] For example, there are tile saws that have a sub-surface basin filled with static coolant, such as water. In these saws, the blade extends into the basin and at least a portion of the blade's perimeter is always submerged in the water. When the tile saw is operated, the blade rotates in the water cooling the blade. Although heat damage is reduced by the cooling, part of the blade is always submerged in the water, which can be damaging.

[0005] Another type of tile saw with a cooling mechanism employs nozzles directed toward the top and/or sides of the cutting blade. In some saws, the nozzles are integrated with the blade guard housing. In other saws, the nozzles are positioned outside the blade guard but are directed at the blade from above the work-piece to be cut. Although these systems eliminate submersion of the blade in a water basin, a new problem of overspray arises. As the nozzles spray water against the rotating blade, water is splashed off the blade creating a mess in the work area and wetting the operator. Furthermore, this system wastes water because much of the water is splashed off of the blade before it can properly cool the blade.

[0006] To address this problem of overspray, splash guards, splash curtains, and guard houses with baffles have been employed to block or re-direct the overspray downwardly towards the work-piece. These solutions, however, still use more water than necessary to cool the blade and leave the top of the work-piece soaked. Additionally, debris and dust from cutting the work- piece can build up on the work table and on the cutting blade.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a cutting machine including a liquid lubrication delivery system that minimizes and controls liquid overspray and debris accumulation during operation, while also reducing the amount of liquid needed to properly cool and lubricate the cutting blade.

SUMMARY

[0008] The present disclosure is directed to a cutting machine having a liquid lubrication delivery system. This cutting machine having a liquid lubrication delivery system contains and controls liquid lubricant to efficiently cool, lubricate, and remove debris from a cutting blade.

[0009] One embodiment takes the form of a cutting machine having a liquid lubrication delivery system that includes a work-piece platform having a main channel establishing an elongate recessed space in the upper surface of the work-piece platform. The main channel has a bottom opposite, a first side, and a second side. A perimeter of a cutting blade of the cutting machine can be received in the main channel during cutting operations. The liquid lubrication delivery system includes a liquid delivery portion at the upstream end of the main channel and a liquid leveler portion at the downstream end of the main channel. The liquid delivery portion has at least one liquid lubrication inlet having a discharge within the main channel. The liquid lubrication inlet is configured to promote flow of discharged lubricant from a liquid source in the main channel predominantly in one lengthwise direction from a liquid source. In one example, the liquid from the liquid source is transferred to the main channel by a lubricant distribution manifold via the liquid lubrication inlets; each liquid lubrication inlet has an inlet end open to the lubricant distribution manifold and a discharge opening open to the main channel. The configuration of the inlets along the main channel fosters sufficient flow speed of liquid within the main channel to provide an adequate sweeping flow that removes debris from the main channel and cools the cutting blade. In at least exemplary embodiment, the lubrication inlets can be tapered, positioned at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the main channel, and/or serially spaced lengthwise along the main channel. Such configuration pressurizes lubrication liquid as it passes through an inlet and causes it to contact the opposing wall of the main channel upon exit. This disperses the liquid to fill the main channel. Because the liquid is pressurized and constantly flowing through the inlets, liquid flows through the main channel and out an open end at a downstream end. Also, because of this arrangement, the majority of the liquid generally flows in one lengthwise direction down the main channel.

[0010] The liquid leveler portion has at least one outlet recessed into the upper surface of the work-piece platform. Each outlet has a mouth within one of the sides of the main channel. The outlet also has an outlet end opposite to the mouth. The outlet is configured to remove excess discharged lubricant from the main channel, whereby the excess discharged lubricant flows from the mouth to the outlet end of the at least one outlet. The configuration of the at least one outlet allows for a controlled liquid level in the main channel. In an exemplary embodiment, the outlet is declined from the mouth to the outlet end, which opens to an orifice that is fluidly connected to the liquid source. The outlet declines such that the mouth is at a higher altitude than the outlet end. The difference between the pressure at the mouth and the pressure at the outlet end promotes liquid flow from the mouth to the orifice. Hence, when the liquid level in the main channel approaches the level of the mouth in the main channel, the liquid exits the main channel through the mouth of the outlet, flows out of the outlet end towards the orifice, and returns to the liquid source. Thus, liquid lubrication delivery system can more readily maintain a predetermined liquid level in the main channel by removing excess liquid and recycling the excess discharged liquid back to the liquid source.

[0011] The cutting machine described herein has a liquid lubrication delivery system to maintain a relatively constant level and velocity of flowing liquid lubricant in the main channel to cool a cutting blade or grinding blade. Also, this cutting machine minimizes the overspray typically associated with cutting tools employing lubrication delivery systems. As a result, the cutting machine described herein having a liquid lubrication delivery system provides a more compact cutting machine that effectively and efficiently cools a cutting blade and controls liquid lubricant delivery to the cutting blade.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The foregoing features of the invention will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description, taken with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] FIG. 1 is a front view of one embodiment of a cutting machine including a liquid lubrication delivery system configured according to the teachings of this disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the work-piece platform of one embodiment of a cutting machine including a liquid lubrication delivery system.

[0015] FIG. 3 is another cross-sectional perspective view of the work-piece platform of

FIG. 2 but further including a liquid lubrication delivery system having a perimeter of a cutting blade having a perimeter thereof received in the main channel.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional front view of one embodiment of the work-piece platform and lubricant distribution manifold of a cutting machine including a liquid lubrication delivery system showing a perimeter of the cutting blade of the cutting machine received in the main channel.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the work-piece platform of FIG. 6 showing a main channel connected to two lubricant distribution manifolds. [0018] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the work-piece platform of an embodiment of the cutting machine including a liquid lubrication delivery system having three main channels, one of which is connected to two lubricant distribution manifolds.

[0019] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the work-piece platform of FIG. 6 showing the lubricant distribution manifold covered by a manifold cover; FIG. 7B further includes a liquid leveler cover;

[0020] FIG. 8 is perspective view of another embodiment of the cutting machine including a liquid lubrication delivery system that additionally includes an upper liquid lubrication distribution system that discharges lubricant onto the cutting blade at a location above the work-piece platform.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the work-piece platform of a cutting machine including a liquid lubrication delivery system in which a lubricant distribution manifold is connected to two main channels.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the work-piece platform of an embodiment of the cutting machine including a liquid lubrication delivery system having a liquid delivery portion and a liquid leveler portion.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a cross-section view of the work piece platform illustrated in FIG. 10 taken along the line A-A.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a close-up view of the cross-section illustrated in FIG. 11 showing the cross-section of the liquid leveler portion of the liquid lubrication delivery system.

[0025] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view of another embodiment of the cutting machine including a liquid lubrication delivery system that includes an alternative liquid leveler portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] A cutting machine having a liquid lubrication delivery system configured according to the present teachings will hereinafter be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings in which preferred embodiments of the system are illustrated. This system can, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those persons skilled in the art. In the figures and description, like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0027] Several definitions that apply throughout this document will now be presented. The word "brim" is defined as the upper edge of anything that is hollow. For example, the brim of a main channel is the upper edge of the main channel, specifically this can be the upper edge of one of the side walls of the main channel. Additionally, the brim of other portions of the liquid lubrication system can have brim. The term "mouth" is defined as any opening, inlet, cleft, groove, recess, or any other opening that provides an entrance or an exit to a main channel. The exit can be configured in the form of a trough, passageway, tube, channel or other similar feature. Further definitions will be presented below.

[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, a cutting machine 109 is shown having a liquid lubrication delivery system including a work-piece platform 101, a main channel 105 recessed in an upper surface of the work-piece platform 101 and which receives a perimeter of a cutting blade 107 of the cutting machine 109. The liquid lubrication delivery system includes a liquid delivery portion and a liquid leveler portion. The liquid delivery portion (not labeled) has liquid lubrication inlets 111 having discharge openings 112 into the main channel 105 are also depicted. The platform 101 is shown having an upper surface for supporting a work-piece 103 thereupon. Such a work-piece 103 can be of a sheet-type such as the case with ceramic tile, clay tile, stone, marble, or other similar sheet-type material. The work-piece 103 can also be of non- sheet-type material such as bricks, pavers, or the like. [0029] The main channel 105 establishes an elongate recessed space into the upper surface of the platform 101. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the main channel 105 is defined by a bottom 102 opposite to the upper surface of the platform 101, a first side 104, and a second side 106. The first and second sides, 104, 106 are perpendicular to the bottom 102 and upper surface of the platform 101. The main channel 105 is open and forms an open slot that is deep enough to receive a perimeter of the cutting blade 107 of the cutting machine 109 during cutting operations. Also illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the main channel 105 includes a brim 108. The brim 108 can be level with the upper surface of the platform, recessed slightly from the upper surface of the platform, slightly raised in relation to the platform, or some combination thereof. These configurations will be herein referred to as being proximate to the upper surface of the platform 101. Returning to FIG. 1, at least one liquid lubrication inlet 111 has a discharge opening 112 that opens into the main channel 105. The liquid lubrication inlet 111 is configured to promote flow of discharged lubricant in the main channel 105 predominantly in one lengthwise direction of the main channel 105. For example, the liquid lubrication inlet 111 and the discharge opening

112 are configured to generally discharge lubricant in a direction away from the first end or upstream end of the channel 105. Those skilled in the art will note that more than one liquid lubrication inlet 111 can be used as seen in FIGS. 4 and 5. Also, the main channel 105 must be sufficiently wide and deep to accommodate the prescribed volume of liquid being delivered from the liquid lubrication inlet 111 but narrow and shallow enough to maintain a steady flow and velocity of delivered liquid within the main channel 105.

[0030] As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 5, the liquid lubrication inlets 111 are fluidly connected to at least one lubricant distribution manifold 113. The lubricant distribution manifold

113 fluidly connects the main channel 105 with a liquid source. Liquid from the liquid source, such as a basin, faucet, reservoir, or the like is transferred to the main channel 105 by the lubricant distribution manifold 113 via the liquid lubrication inlets 111. Each liquid lubrication inlet 111 has an inlet end 117 open to the lubricant distribution manifold 113 and a discharge opening 112 open to the main channel 105. It will be appreciated that more than one lubricant distribution manifold 113 can be used to deliver liquid from the liquid source to the main channel 105. For instance, in FIGS. 2 and 3, two lubricant distribution manifolds 113 are shown fluidly connected to the main channel 105, one on each side of the main channel 105, by liquid lubrication inlets 111.

[0031] FIGS. 5 and 9 provide more detailed views of exemplary lubricant distribution manifolds 113. In the depicted embodiments, a manifold 113 is positioned on each side of and parallel to the main channels 105. At one end of the manifold 113 is an entry point 116 through which liquid from a liquid source enters. Multiple liquid lubrication inlets 111 fluidly connect each manifold 113 to a main channel 105. The inlets 111 can be of uniform longitudinal shapes but can also be tapered as shown in FIG. 5. For example, the inlet can be tapered from the inlet end 117 to the discharge opening 112. The inlets 111 can also be oriented such that the longitudinal axis of each inlet 111 is oriented at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the main channel 105. As liquid continuously enters the manifold 113, the liquid is forced through the inlets 111 into the main channel 105. The velocity and direction of flow in the main channel 105 is determined at least in part by the shape, size, width, and orientation of the inlets 111.

[0032] If more than one manifold 113 with multiple lubrication inlets 111 are used, it is not necessary that the same number of inlets 111 connect each manifold 113 to the main channel 105. For example, one manifold 113 can be connected to the main channel 105 by four inlets 111, while the second manifold can be connected to the main channel 105 by three inlets 111. Similarly, the inlets 111 on one side of the main channel 105 need not be directly opposite the inlets 111 on the opposite side of the main channel 105. As depicted in FIG. 5, the inlets 111 are serially spaced apart lengthwise along the main channel 105. Referring to FIG. 5, the direction of liquid flow is shown by the arrow at the top of the figure. Liquid travels through the main channel 105 from the upstream end (closest to the bottom of the figure) to the downstream end (at the top of the figure). Threaded apertures and capped apertures are also shown to demonstrate how the liquid lubrication delivery system can be configured and attached to a cutting machine 109.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, a lubrication inlet 111 is positioned close to a first end of the respective main channel 105, such as the upstream end. Such positioning aids in thoroughly removing and flushing out any debris and dust that can build up in the main channel 105 during cutting operations.

[0034] The manifold 113 can be attached to the work-piece platform 101 in different ways. For example, the manifold 113 can be machined as a separate piece and bolted onto the work-piece platform 101. In this way, the work-piece platform 101 can be interchanged with a platform that does not include the above described liquid lubrication delivery system. Alternatively, the manifold 113 can be cast into the work-piece platform 101.

[0035] FIGS. 4, 6, and 10 show a liquid lubrication delivery system having more than one main channel 105 recessed at the upper surface of the work-piece platform 101. The additional main channels 105 can be used for different types of cuts, such as miter cuts, bevel cuts, plunge cuts, or others. Each of these main channels 105 include lubrication inlets 111 connected to manifolds 113. In FIGS. 6, 7, and 10, the liquid delivery portion 100 and the liquid leveler portion 600 are illustrated. As shown in FIG. 6, 7, and 10, the main channel 105 includes first end 1000 and a second end 6000. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 10, the first end is an upstream end 1000, and the second end is a downstream end 6000. The upstream end 1000 is where the liquid lubrication is delivered to the main channel. The downstream end 6000 is where the blade of a cutting machine will enter the main channel 105. The arrow at the upper right side of the FIG. 6 illustrates the direction of liquid flow within the main channel 105. As illustrated, the movement of the blade of the cutting machine will travel through the main channel 105 in a direction opposite to the direction of liquid flow within the main channel 105. In FIG. 10, the arrow at the bottom of FIG. 10 illustrates the direction of liquid flow within the main channel 105 travels from the top of FIG. 10 towards the bottom of FIG. 10. Thus, in FIG. 10, the upstream end 1000 of the main channel 105, where the liquid delivery portion 100 is located, is towards the top of FIG. 10, and the downstream end 6000 of the main channel 105, where the liquid leveler portion 600 is located, is towards the bottom of FIG. 10. However, in other embodiments, the flow of the liquid lubrication can be in the opposite direction in relation to the path of blade travel. [0036] The liquid leveler portion 600 of the liquid lubrication delivery system includes at least one outlet 601 formed in one of the sides of the channel 105. In the illustrated embodiment in FIGS. 6 and 10, the at least one outlet 601 is recessed into the upper surface of the platform 101. Details of the liquid leveler portion 600 will be described with respect to FIGS. 11 and 12, however a brief description of the liquid leveler portion 600 will be provided. The liquid leveler as described herein has at least one outlet. In the particular embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 6, 7, and 10, the liquid leveler portion 600 comprises a plurality of outlets 601. Specifically, there are twelve outlets 601 fluidly connected to the main channel 105. Additionally, the particular embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 10 includes an outlet 601 on each side of the main channel 105. Each outlet 601 has two sides, a bottom, and an open top side. Additionally, each outlet 601 has a mouth formed within one side of the main channel 105 and open to the main channel 105. Each outlet 601 also has an outlet end open to an outlet channel 605.

[0037] In FIGS. 6 and 10, there are two outlet channels 605. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the two outlet channels 605 are located on each side of the main channel 105 and parallel to the main channel 105. While the illustrated embodiment shows each outlet channel 605 oriented parallel to the main channel 105, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the outlet channel 605 can be oriented perpendicular to the main channel 105. Each outlet channel 605 can include at least one orifice 609 within the bottom surface of the outlet channel and proximate to the downstream end of the main channel 105 and to the downstream end of the outlet channel 605. In the particular embodiment illustrated, each outlet channel 605 has three orifices 609 within the bottom surface of the outlet channel 605. Additionally, the orifice 609 is located proximate to the downstream 6000 end of the main channel 105 closest to the exit of liquid flow out of the main channel 105 and the entry point of the blade of a cutting machine. The orifice 609 provides an exit aperture for the excess discharged liquid that is moved from the main channel 105 into the outlet channel 605. Alternatively, the at least one outlet 601 can terminate at a drain that is located adjacent to one of the first side or the second side of the channel 105 and at a predetermined distance from the first side or the second side. One of ordinary skill in the art will, however, appreciate that there can be fewer than or more than the twelve outlets 601 depicted in FIGS. 6, 7, and 10. One of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that liquid leveler portion 600 of the liquid lubrication delivery system can have fewer or more than two outlet channels 605, each having fewer or more than the three orifices 609 illustrated in FIGS. 6, 7, and 10.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 10, the plurality of outlets 601 are serially spaced apart lengthwise along the main channel 105. The each of the plurality of outlets 601 is also oriented at an angle to the longitudinal or lengthwise axis of the main channel 105. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 6, 7, and 10, the outlets 601 are angled towards the lengthwise direction of flow of discharged lubricant in the main channel 105. For example, in FIG. 10, the outlets 601 to the left of the main channel 105 are oriented at an acute angle that is clockwise from the longitudinal axis of the main channel 105. In other words, the outlets 601 to the left of the main channel 105 are oriented at an angle beginning from the longitudinal axis of the main channel 105 and moving away from the main channel 105 in a clockwise direction. The outlets 601 to the right of the main channel 105 are oriented at an acute angle that is counter-clockwise from the longitudinal axis of the main channel 105. For example, the outlets 601 to the right of the main channel 105 are oriented at an angle beginning from the longitudinal axis of the main channel 105 and moving away from the main channel 105 in a counter-clockwise direction. Thus, in FIGS. 6 and 10, the outlets 601 are oriented at an angle that promotes flow of the excess discharged lubricant in the same lengthwise direction as the flow of lubricant within the main channel 105. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the outlets 605 need not be oriented at an acute angle to the longitudinal axis of the main channel 105. In one embodiment, the outlets 605 can be oriented at ninety degrees to the longitudinal axis of the main channel 105 or the outlets 605. In another embodiment, the outlets 605 can be oriented at an angle that promotes flow of excess discharged lubricant in a direction opposite to the direction of flow within the main channel 105.

[0039] In FIGS. 6, 7A, and 7B, the work-piece platform 101 includes a backstop 118 (on which an edge of a work-piece 103 rests. This provides guidance and resistance to the operator as he moves the work-piece 103 against the cutting blade 107 to cut the work-piece 103. While the illustrated embodiment shows a backstop 118, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the work-piece platform 101 does not necessarily include a backstop 118. [0040] In the particular embodiment depicted in FIG. 7 A, the manifold can be covered by a manifold cover 115 to further prevent overspray and promote uniform and steady flow of liquid to and through the main channel 105 of the liquid lubrication delivery system. While the illustrated embodiment includes a manifold cover 115, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the liquid lubrication delivery system does not necessarily include a manifold cover 115. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 7B, the liquid leveler portion 600 can be covered by a liquid leveler cover 620. While the illustrated example in FIG. 7B shows a single piece liquid leveler cover 620, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the liquid leveler cover 620 can include a plurality of pieces. For example, the liquid leveler 620 can include a plurality of cover pieces that fit over each outlet 601. Additionally, the liquid leveler cover 620 can include a cover piece that fits over the outlet channel 605. In either embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7A or 7B, the manifold cover 115 or the liquid leveler cover 620 can be made of polyurethane, plastic, a sheet of metal, or any other material that can be coupled to the work- piece platform 101. Also, the manifold cover 115 and the liquid leveler cover 620 can be coupled to the work-piece platform 101 by any means that secures the manifold cover 115 and the liquid leveler cover 620 to the platform 101. For example, the manifold cover 115 or liquid leveler cover 620 can be glued to the upper surface of the platform 101. In other examples, the manifold cover 115 or liquid leveler cover 620 can be coupled to the platform 101 by fasteners, nuts and bolts, or screws. In yet another example, the manifold cover 115 or the liquid leveler cover 620 can be shaped to fit, snap, or slip into a corresponding shape or opening in the upper surface of the work-piece platform 101.

[0041] FIG. 8 depicts another embodiment of a cutting machine 109 having a liquid lubrication delivery system. In this embodiment, the system additionally includes an upper liquid lubrication distribution system 110 positioned above the work-piece platform 101 such that it discharges lubricating liquid directly onto the cutting blade 107 at a location above the work-piece platform 101. This embodiment can also include a valve 114 fluidly connected between the liquid lubrication inlet 111 and the upper liquid lubrication distribution system 110. Such valve 114 can be used to allow the operator to dispense liquid lubrication to the main channel 105 or the upper liquid lubrication distribution system 110 or to both the upper liquid distribution system 110 and the main channel 105. [0042] FIG. 9 is an illustration of an alternative embodiment of the liquid delivery portion 100 of a liquid lubrication delivery system having more than one main channel 105. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the liquid delivery portion includes a plurality of manifolds 113 that are each attached to at least one of the main channels 105. FIG. 9 depicts how the previously described manifolds 113 can be configured and attached to a liquid lubrication delivery system having multiple main channels 105. In FIG. 9, two main channels 105 are each connected to two lubricant distribution manifolds 113, but the main channels 105 share a distribution manifold 113.

[0043] Details of the outlets 601 of the liquid leveler portion 600 of the liquid lubrication delivery system will now be described with respect to FIGS. 11 and 12. FIG. 11 illustrates a partial view of the work-piece platform 101 illustrated in FIG. 10 showing a cross-section taken at line A-A of the downstream end 6000 of the platform 101. FIG. 12 is a close-up view of FIG. 11. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the at least one outlet 601 is recessed into the upper surface of the platform 101. The outlet 601 has two sides, a bottom, an open top side, and a mouth 602 formed within one of the first side 104 and second side 104 of the main channel 105 at the brim 108. The outlet is configured to remove excess discharged lubricant from the main channel 105. In the particular embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, the mouth 602 is open to the main channel 105 such that any lubricant discharged into the main channel 105 that that exceeds a predetermined level enters the mouth 602 and flows through the outlet 601 and out of the main channel 105, thereby maintaining a suitable level of liquid lubricant.

[0044] The outlet 601 can also include an outlet end 603 opposite to the mouth 602 and spaced a predetermined distance away from the brim 608 of the main channel 105, whereby the outlet 601 promotes the flow of excess liquid lubrication from the mouth 602 to the outlet end 603. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 11 and 12, the outlet 601 is downwardly inclined from the brim 108 of the main channel 105 to the outlet end 603. As a result, the bottom surface of the outlet 601 has a negative slope thereby promoting flow of excess discharged lubricant from the main channel 105 downward and away from the main channel 105. In the particular embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, the outlet 601 is downwardly inclined and has the outlet end 603 open to an outlet channel 605 that is oriented parallel to the main channel 105. As seen in FIGS. 11 and 12, the portion 604 of the upper surface where the outlets 601 are recessed is also downwardly inclined to correspond with the downward incline of the outlet 601. When excess lubricant from the main channel 105 flows from the mouth 602 down to the outlet end 605, the excess lubricant empties into the outlet channel 605. In FIGS. 11 and 12, the outlet channel includes an orifice 609 through the bottom surface. In one embodiment, the orifice 609 can be fluidly connected to the liquid lubrication source, thereby allowing the excess discharged lubricant that flows from the main channel 105 into the outlet channel 605 to flow back into the liquid lubrication source and be recycled in the liquid lubrication delivery system. In another embodiment, the orifice 609 can be open to the ground or to the surrounding environment and the excess discharged lubricant that flows from the main channel into the outlet channel 605 will fall to the ground or be expelled into the surrounding environment. In yet another embodiment, the orifice 609 can be open to and in fluid communication with a drain pan (not shown) located beneath the work-piece platform 101.

[0045] FIG. 12 illustrates the relationship of the depth of the main channel 105 and the liquid leveler portion 600 of the liquid lubrication delivery system. The main channel 105 has a first depth 611 measured from the bottom 102 to the brim 108 of the main channel 105. Recessed within the sides 104, 106 of the main channel 105 proximate to the brim 108 is the mouth 602 of the outlet 601. The mouth 602 of each of the outlets 601 has a relatively shallow depth which allows a predetermined level of liquid lubricant to remain in the main channel 105. The outlet channel 605 located on each side of and parallel to the main channel 105, each has a second depth 613. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the second depth 613 is less than the first depth 611. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that in another embodiment, the second depth 613 can be equal to the first depth 611.

[0046] FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the liquid leveler portion 600 of the liquid lubrication delivery system that does not include an outlet channel. In FIG. 13, the liquid leveler portion 600 is located at a downstream end 6000 of the main channel 105 of the work-piece platform 601. As shown in FIG. 13, the direction of liquid flow in the main channel 105 is represented by the arrow at the bottom of FIG. 13 and indicates liquid flows in the main channel 105 from the top to the bottom of FIG. 13. The liquid leveler portion 600 illustrated includes an outlet 601 and an orifice 609. The outlet 601 is recessed within the upper surface of the work-piece platform 101 at a downstream end of the main channel 105. The outlet 601 has a mouth 602 within the one of the sides 104, 106 of the main channel 105 proximate to the brim 108 of the main channel 105. An orifice 609 is located within the outlet 601 opposite to the mouth 602. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, the outlet 601 is configured to promote flow of excess discharged lubricant from the main channel 105 away from the main channel 105 in a direction perpendicular to the main channel 105. Thus, when liquid lubricant fills the main channel 105 and the liquid lubricant approaches the mouth 602 of the outlet 601, the excess discharged lubricant in the main channel that exceeds the mouth 602 of the outlet will enter the outlet 601 via the mouth 602. The excess discharged lubricant will flow into the outlet 601 and down through the orifice 609 within the outlet 601. Thus, the discharged lubricant within the main channel 105 will flow out of the main channel 105 into the outlet 601, thereby reducing the possibility that the level of liquid lubricant in the main channel 105 reaches the brim 108 of the main channel 105. With the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, the level of discharged lubricant in the main channel 605 can be maintained at a suitable level. As described in the previous embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, the orifice 609 can be in fluid communication with the liquid lubrication source, thereby allows the excess discharged lubricant from the main channel 105 to be recycled back into the liquid lubrication delivery system. Alternatively, the orifice 609 can be open to the ground to expel the excess discharged lubricant into the surrounding environment. While the illustrated embodiment in FIG. 13 shows the liquid leveler portion 600 having six outlets 601 with each outlet 601 having an orifice 609, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the liquid leveler portion 600 can have as few as one outlet 605 or more than six outlets 605. Additionally, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that each outlet 605 does not require an orifice 609, so long as the liquid lever portion 600 has at least one orifice 609.

[0047] The illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 1-13 contemplate a cutting machine having a liquid lubrication delivery system having a work-piece platform 101 that can be moveable or stationary with respect to the cutting machine. For example, in one embodiment, the work-piece platform 101 can be stationary or fixed and the cutting machine 109 moves relative thereto as an operator guides the cutting machine 109 to travel across the work-piece platform 101. Alternatively, the work-piece platform 101 can be moveable with respect to the cutting machine 109 such that the cutting machine 109 remains stationary and the operator moves the work-piece platform 101 relative the cutting machine 109. Or, the work-piece platform 101 and the cutting tool can be fixed in relation to each other such that the operator rests the work-piece 103 on top of the work-piece platform 101 and feeds the work-piece 103 towards the cutting blade 107 of the cutting machine 109.

[0048] In other embodiments, the cutting machine 109 can be a tile saw, a miter saw, a masonry saw, a circular saw, or the like. The cutting machine 109 can also be a grinding machine.

[0049] Additional attachments can also be used in conjunction with the above described cutting machine 109 having a liquid lubrication delivery system to further control and prevent overspray. Such attachments can include but are not limited to a blade guard surrounding the cutting blade, splash curtains, water pans, or splash guards.

[0050] Operation of the cutting machine 109 having a liquid lubrication delivery system will now be described with respect to delivering water to the cutting blade 107 of a tile saw. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the following discussion is only an exemplary use of the above described liquid lubrication delivery system. Any type of coolant or lubricant can be used instead of water, and any type of cutting tool or grinding tool can be used instead of a tile saw. Furthermore, operation will be described with respect to the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1, 5, and 6 in which there is a manifold 113 on each lengthwise side of the main channel 105 and there are a plurality of tapered lubrication inlets 111 serially spaced lengthwise along and at an angle to the main channel 105.

[0051] In operation, liquid lubrication is dispensed under pressure from a liquid lubrication source to the entry point 116 of the manifold 113 of the liquid delivery portion 100 of the cutting machine 109 having a prescribed liquid lubrication delivery system. The liquid lubrication source can be integrated into the cutting machine 109 or can be separate. The liquid delivery portion 100 is located at the upstream end 1000 of the main channel 105, which is opposite to the end of the main channel 105 where the cutting blade will enter. The manifold 113 of the liquid delivery portion 100 is of an optimal width such that the liquid lubrication can be pushed through the inlets 111 into the main channel 105 at a sufficient velocity. By virtue of fluid dynamics, the size, tapering, and orientation of the inlets 111 along the main channel 105 foster sufficient flow speed therein to provide an adequate sweeping flow of liquid lubrication through the main channel 105. In this exemplary embodiment, because the lubrication inlets 111 are tapered, positioned at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the main channel 105, and serially spaced lengthwise along the main channel 105, the pressurized liquid lubrication passes through an inlet 111 and contacts the opposing wall of the main channel 105, thereby dispersing the liquid lubrication to fill the main channel 105. Because the liquid lubrication is pressurized and constantly flowing through the inlets 111, the liquid lubrication flows through the main channel 105 and out an open end at the downstream end of the main channel 105. Also, because of this arrangement, the liquid lubrication only flows in one lengthwise direction down the main channel 105. The main channel 105 is dimensioned to contain the liquid lubrication within the main channel 105 and to maintain a substantially constant depth and velocity of liquid lubrication flowing through the main channel 105. When liquid lubrication is dispensed from a liquid lubrication source and moved into the main channel 105, liquid lubrication will be flowing through the main channel 105 before the cutting blade 107 enters the main channel 105.

[0052] Because the liquid lubrication is pressurized and constantly flowing through the inlets 111 the height of the resulting flow of liquid lubrication in the main channel 105 can potentially continue to rise and possibly spill over the brim 108 of the main channel 105. Referring to the embodiment of the liquid lubrication system illustrated in FIG. 12, the liquid lubrication system includes a liquid leveler portion 600 located at the downstream end 6000 of the main channel 105 that assists in maintaining a substantially constant depth and velocity of liquid lubrication flowing through the main channel 105. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the mouth 602 of the outlets 601 of the liquid leveler portion 600 is placed within a side 104, 106 of the main channel 105 proximate to the brim 108 of the main channel and above a predetermined height that is representative of the liquid lubrication level height that is to be maintained in the main channel 105. The outlets 605 of the liquid leveler 600 are of an optimal width and downwardly inclined such that the liquid lubrication will flow from the mouth 602 of the outlet 605 and into an orifice 609 fluidly connected to the outlet 605, when the level of liquid lubrication in the main channel 108 exceeds the predetermined height. Thus, when liquid lubrication in the main channel 105 approaches the mouth 602 of the outlet 601, the pressurized and constantly flowing liquid lubrication in the main channel 105, will push the liquid lubrication that reaches the mouth 602 of the outlet 601, through the mouth 602 and into the outlet 601. The excess liquid lubrication will then flow down the outlet 601, as a result of the downward incline, out of the outlet end 603 and into the outlet channel 605 fluidly connected to the outlet 601. Additionally, the downward incline (decline) provides a plenum for the liquid lubrication in the outlet 601, thereby drawing excess liquid lubrication in the main channel 105 that exceeds the predetermined liquid lubrication level away and out from the main channel and down towards the outlet channel 605. As the excess liquid lubrication accumulates in the outlet channel 605, the excess liquid lubrication is pushed down the outlet channel 605 towards the orifices 609 at the end of the outlet channel 605. The orifices 609 are open and in fluid communication with the liquid lubrication source. The openness of the orifices 609 creates a pressure difference between the atmospheric pressure above the outlet channel 105 and the atmospheric pressure beneath the orifice. As a result of fluid dynamics, the liquid lubrication within the outlet channel 105 is drawn to and through the orifice 609, thereby constantly draining the outlet channel 105. As the orifices are in fluid communication with the liquid lubrication source, the excess liquid lubrication from the main channel 105 is recycled back into the liquid lubrication system, thereby assuring enough liquid lubrication to fill the main channel 105 and enough liquid lubrication to pump through liquid lubrication system to maintain a constant velocity of liquid lubrication flow through the main channel 105. Additionally, the fluid communication between the liquid leveler portion 105 and the liquid lubrication source reduces the amount of wasted liquid lubrication.

[0053] When the operator is ready to cut a piece of tile 103, he places the tile 103 on top of the work-piece platform 101 such that a back edge of the piece of tile 103 abuts the backstop 118 of the work-piece platform 101. The operator then guides the work-piece platform 101 and tile 103 towards the cutting blade 107. As the platform 101 moves closer to the blade 107, the liquid lubrication flowing at the downstream end of the main channel 105 comes into contact with the blade 107 to begin cooling the blade. Then, as the tile 103 approaches the blade 107, the tile 103 is cut, and the liquid lubrication in the main channel 106, which is now below the tile 103, flows across the blade 107 and continues to cool the blade 107 as the tile 103 is cut. Because the liquid lubrication is below the tile 103 and the lubrication inlets 111 are positioned to direct a constant flow of liquid lubrication down the main channel 105, liquid lubrication that would normally have been directed upwards and onto the tile 103 by the centrifugal force of the spinning blade 107 is diminished. Also, because the flow of liquid lubrication is in generally in one direction down the main channel away from the operator, any liquid lubrication or overspray that would typically have been sprayed onto the operator and his work area is diminished. Dust or debris that results from cutting tile 103 is also reduced because the constant flow of liquid lubrication in the main channel 105 takes on and pushes such dust and debris downstream of the main channel 105 and out the open end of the main channel 105.

[0054] In at least one embodiment, a method of supplying liquid lubrication is contemplated herein. The method includes providing a work-piece platform to support a work- piece. The work-piece platform can be configured as described above and includes at least a main channel defining a recess in an upper surface of the work-piece platform. The method further includes discharging liquid lubrication through at least one liquid lubrication inlet having a discharge opening within the main channel. In some embodiments, the liquid lubrication can additionally be discharged through the above described components. For example, the method can include discharging liquid lubrication through a manifold fluidly connected to the discharge opening within the main channel. The liquid lubrication can be discharged through the at least one liquid lubrication inlet at a longitudinal axis oriented at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the main channel as described above. The arrangement of the discharge openings can be as described above wherein a plurality of discharge openings are provided. The liquid lubrication can flow down the main channel as described above. The flow in the main channel is such that it allows for wetting and cooling of the cutting tool as it passes through the liquid lubrication in the main channel.

[0055] Additionally, the present disclosure contemplates a method of leveling cutting fluid within the main channel of the work-platform of a cutting machine. The work platform can be as described above or in the form of other embodiments that are compatible with the method as described herein. The liquid lubrication can be supplied to the main channel using the above described method or other method as contained herein. The liquid lubrication in the main channel can be evacuated through at least one outlet recessed into the upper surface of the work- piece platform at a downstream end of the main channel. The evacuating of the liquid lubrication can be through a drain fluidly connected to the at least one outlet, wherein the drain is located adjacent to the first side or the second side of the main channel and a predetermined distance from the first side or the second side. Additionally, the evacuation of the fluid provides a leveling mechanism whereby the liquid lubrication is leveled within the main channel through the use of the method as presented herein. Other elements used in the evacuation of the main channel can be as described above especially in relation to the description of the flow of fluid within the main channel.

[0056] The present disclosure also contemplates making a product by one the above described methods. Additionally, other steps can be implemented as would be apparent from the present disclosure.

[0057] With the cutting machine described above, liquid lubricant or coolant is contained in the main channel 105 and maintained at a constant height and velocity, thereby efficiently cooling and lubricating the cutting blade 107, while minimizing overspray, debris build-up, and wasted liquid.

[0058] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY: The present invention finds applicability in the power tool and industrial tool industries.