Workpiece Tools and Techniques

Workpiece tools and techniques are described. In one example, a workpiece tool includes different side panels that provide surfaces for workpiece alignment. Further, a workpiece tool includes apertures that can align with a work surface such as a welding table. An adjustable tool is also described that includes a tool body and a slidable member that is slidable relative to the tool body. The slidable member, for instance, represents a measurement tool that can be used to measure object dimensions. Further, the tool body includes different side panels that are arranged to enable a variety of different usage scenarios such as include different positions of the slidable member relative to an adjacent object and/or surface.

BACKGROUND

Welders, carpenters, and other people joining workpieces together often have a need to join the workpieces together at particular angles. A welder, for instance, may frequently need to weld two metal workpieces together at specific angles, such as 90-degrees or 45-degrees. However, a single welder cannot simultaneously hold two or more workpieces himself, align the workpieces to a specific angle, and ensure that the alignment does not change during the welding process.

Conventional tools for aligning workpieces, such as carpentry or speed squares, suffer from numerous limitations that reduce or negate their utility. For example, while a speed square may provide a 90-degree angle, a speed square is substantially planar itself and does not provide flat planar edges on which to properly align workpieces. Further, a speed square lacks the ability to hold workpieces, and both the speed square and the workpiece must be manually held to ensure that an alignment does not change. Due to these limitations, a user of a speed square is often subjected to a time-consuming iterative process of aligning two workpieces with the speed square, removing the speed square, attaching the workpieces to one another, realigning the workpieces with the speed square, adjusting the attachment between the workpieces, and so on.

Further, forming an angle with a conventional tool requires direct placement of the tool in a joint forming the angle. For example, a user attempting to join two workpieces to form a 90-degree angle must place a conventional tool at the point of joinder and directly flush with the workpieces. Such a placement of a tool directly obstructs the ability to operate upon a workpiece at the point of joinder. This is particularly troublesome when the operation involves welding, where the welding implements themselves must occupy an amount of space proximate to the workpieces. Additionally, the point of joinder between workpieces does not always correspond to the intersection of the planes to which the workpieces are aligned. For example, two workpieces may be aligned at an angle of 90-degrees with respect to one another, but attached via a third workpiece that forms a chamfered corner. In scenarios such as these where there is not a single point of joinder corresponding to a desired angle, conventional tools utterly fail and cannot accurately align workpieces.

Thus, conventional tools and techniques lack the ability to quickly and accurately align workpieces in various scenarios, lack the ability to ensure that the alignment does not change during an operation upon a workpiece, and obstruct access to the point of joinder of workpieces.

SUMMARY

Workpiece tools and techniques are described. The tools and techniques are usable to ensure consistent and durable alignment of various workpieces while providing access for performing attachment techniques thereon, which is not possible using conventional tools and techniques.

A workpiece tool, for instance, may include alignment surfaces that are joined to one another and oriented at corresponding specific angles. The workpiece tool includes accessibility cutouts and access spaces that provide a user simultaneous access to points around a joint formed by objects aligned with the alignment surfaces. In this way, the workpiece tool provides accessibility that allows a user to operate upon a workpiece, e.g., as by joining aligned objects together, without interfering or obstructing access to the objects.

Further, the workpiece tool is configured to allow objects to be held or removably affixed to an alignment surface. Holding objects with the workpiece tool ensures that the alignment of objects with an alignment surface does not change during an operation upon a workpiece. The ability to hold objects is enhanced by the inclusion of cutouts that provide increased access to interior surfaces of the workpiece tool, such as to increase the area available for use of clamps or other fastening devices.

An adjustable tool is also described that includes a tool body and a slidable member that is slidable relative to the tool body. The slidable member, for instance, represents a measurement tool that can be used to measure object dimensions. Further, the tool body includes different side panels that are arranged to enable a variety of different usage scenarios such as include different positions of the slidable member relative to an adjacent object and/or surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Overview

Many conventional alignment tools are substantially planar, i.e. flat, and do not provide sufficient surfaces on which to align objects. Further, conventional alignment tools tend to obstruct user access to the objects being aligned, particularly around points of joinder. Additionally, conventional alignment tools lack the ability to hold objects to ensure that the objects are not unintentionally moved. Thus, many conventional alignment tools have been found to be unable to adequately align objects during operation upon a workpiece.

Accordingly, workpiece tools and techniques are described. In one example, a workpiece tool includes multiple side panels that include alignment surfaces that may be utilized to align and/or hold objects. The workpiece tool includes at least one cutout adjacent an alignment surface. The cutout increases the exposed and accessible area of the corresponding alignment surface, thus providing an increased area upon the alignment surface that may be utilized to clamp or otherwise fasten a workpiece to the tool. Further, a single side panel may provide multiple alignment surfaces, for instance an inner alignment surface and an outer alignment surface. By providing an inner alignment surface that is parallel to an outer alignment surface of the same side panel, clamps or other fasteners may be utilized to ensure that alignment and positioning of objects will not be unintentionally altered.

In another example, the workpiece tool includes alignment surfaces that are joined to one another and oriented at corresponding specific angles. Accessibility cutouts and access spaces are provided adjacent the alignment surfaces to provide a user simultaneous access to points around a joint formed by objects aligned with the alignment surfaces. In this way, the workpiece tool provides accessibility that allows a user to operate upon a workpiece, e.g., as by joining aligned objects together, without interfering or obstructing access to the objects.

In the following discussion, example workpiece tools are described that may employ the techniques described herein. Example scenarios are then described in which the example workpiece tools are utilized to align and/or hold example workpieces. Performance of the example scenarios is not limited to the example workpiece tools, and the example workpiece tools are not limited to performance of the example scenarios.

Workpiece Tools

FIGS.1-7depict various example workpiece tools that are operable to employ techniques described herein.

FIG.1depicts a workpiece tool100(shown from two different perspectives) that is operable to employ techniques described herein. The workpiece tool100includes side panels102,104, and106. The side panels102,104, and106each have an interior surface and an exterior surface. For example, the side panel102has interior surface102aand exterior surface102b. Likewise, the side panel104has interior surface104aand exterior surface104b, and the side panel106has interior surface106aand exterior surface106b. The side panels102,104, and106are each connected by their respective interior surface to a diaphragm108.

The side panels102,104, and106of the workpiece tool100provide flat surfaces, e.g., the respective interior and exterior surfaces, for aligning, clamping, fastening, holding, or measuring materials or workpieces, and so forth. The side panels102,104, and106are joined to one another to form respective angles A, B, and C. In the illustrated and described implementation ofFIG.1, side panel102and the side panel104form an angle A of 45-degrees, the side panel102and the side panel106form an angle of 45-degrees, side panel104and the side panel106form an angle B of 90-degrees, and side panel106and side panel102form an angle C of 45-degrees. Accordingly, workpieces aligned with (e.g., clamped to) adjacent side panels of the workpiece tool100will become aligned, one to another, at corresponding specific angles.

The side panels102,104, and106each have a respective width, illustrated as “W” in the rightmost illustration. The width W is sufficiently large to provide an area upon which nearly any workpiece can become easily aligned with the respective side panel. As an example, the area provided by a side panel is large enough to ensure that a cylindrical workpiece will always contact the side panel at a point of tangency. In some implementations, the side panels have a width W ranging from about 1.5″ to about 3″, and lengths ranging from about 8″ to about 17″. Other dimensions can, of course, be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.

The diaphragm108is a structural support that connects the various side panels and holds angular alignments among the various side panels. In implementations, the diaphragm108is connected to at least a part of each respective interior surface of the side panels102-106. The region generally bounded by the interior surfaces of the side panels102-106may be considered an interior region of the workpiece tool100, and thus the diaphragm108is disposed within the interior region. In some implementations, the diaphragm is centered with respect to the width of the side panels as described further with respect toFIG.3. In other implementations, the diaphragm is aligned to an edge of the side panels with respect to their width as described further with respect toFIG.3.

The diaphragm108includes a plurality of cutouts110. Each of the cutouts110is partially bounded by one of the side panels102,104, or106. The cutouts110are pass-through openings for fasteners or clamps, and increase the accessibility to and exposed area of the interior surfaces of the respective side panel. In this way, a clamp or fastener may easily be attached to or access portions of the interior surface along the full width of the respective side panel, without interference from the diaphragm108. In some implementations, the cutouts have a width ranging from about 1″ to about 2″ and lengths ranging from about 2″ to about 3″. The size and shape of each respective cutout may be referred to by its footprint, e.g., a two-dimensional region as seen from a viewpoint perpendicular to the diaphragm216.

In some implementations, the workpiece tool100includes at least one weld relief112at the joinder of two side panels. The weld relief112is an external cutout that prevents the exterior surfaces of the respective side panels from reaching a point of intersection. The weld relief112allows the workpiece tool100to be aligned with workpieces despite the presence of deposited weld materials. For example, two workpieces that have been welded to form an acute angle may include a welding bead inside of the acute angle. In such an example, the welding bead obstructs conventional tools from becoming properly aligned with the workpieces, while the workpiece tool100with the weld relief112is capable of becoming flush with both workpieces and achieving proper alignment.

Further, in some implementations the workpiece tool100includes at least one tapped hole114. The tapped hole114allows various attachments to be removably affixed to the workpiece tool100, as described in greater detail with respect toFIGS.8and9. In some implementations, the tapped hole114is a ¼″-20tapped hole. As illustrated, the tapped hole114is parallel to the width of one or more side panels. In some implementations, the workpiece tool100includes additional holes, such as holes through a side panel that may be utilized to fasten the workpiece tool100to a modular welding table. For example, the workpiece tool100may include ⅝″ through-holes in the side panels for the purpose of alignment with ⅝″ holes in a modular welding table.

In implementations, the workpiece tool100is a made from a metal such as steel, iron, or aluminum, however any suitable substance may be utilized such as various metals, woods, plastics, and so forth. In implementations, the workpiece tool100is a single solid object created from CNC machining, however any suitable formation technique may be utilized such as 3D printing a single solid object, or by attaching multiple objects together such as by gluing, welding, fastening with screws, and so forth.

FIG.2depicts a workpiece tool200(shown from two different perspectives) that is operable to employ techniques described herein. The workpiece tool200includes side panels202,204,206,208,210,212, and214. Each of the side panels202-214have an interior surface and an exterior surface. For example, the side panel202has interior surface202aand exterior surface202b. Likewise, the side panel204has interior surface204aand exterior surface204b, the side panel206has interior surface206aand exterior surface206b, the side panel208has interior surface208aand exterior surface208b, the side panel210has interior surface210aand exterior surface210b, the side panel212has interior surface212aand exterior surface212b, and the side panel214has interior surface214aand exterior surface214b. The side panels202-208are each connected by their respective interior surface to a diaphragm216.

The side panels202-214of the workpiece tool200provide flat surfaces, e.g., the respective interior and exterior surfaces, for aligning, clamping, fastening, holding, or measuring materials or workpieces, and so forth. Each of the side panels202-214is joined to at least one other of the side panels202-214to form respective angles A, B, C, D, E, and F. In the illustrated and described implementation ofFIG.2, the side panel202and the side panel204form an angle A of 135-degrees, the side panel204and the side panel206form an angle B of 135-degrees, the side panel206and the side panel208form an angle C of 45-degrees, the side panel210and the side panel212form and angle D of 45-degrees, the side panel212and the side panel214form an angle E of 135-degrees, and the side panel214and the side panel202form an angle F of 135-degrees. In such implementations, the side panel202is at a right angle with respect to the side panel206and the side panel212, the side panel204is at a right angle with respect to the side panel210and the side panel214, and the side panel214is at a right angle with respect to the side panel204and the side panel208. Accordingly, workpieces aligned with (e.g., clamped to) adjacent side panels of the workpiece tool200will become aligned, one to another, at corresponding specific angles.

The side panels202-214each have a respective width, illustrated as “W” in the rightmost illustration. The width W is sufficiently large to provide an area upon which nearly any workpiece can become easily aligned with the respective side panel. As an example, the area provided by a side panel is large enough to ensure that a cylindrical workpiece will always contact the side panel at a point of tangency. In some implementations, the side panels202-214have a width W ranging from about 1.5″ to about 3″, and lengths ranging from about 3.5″ to about 12″. Other dimensions can, of course, be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.

The diaphragm216is a structural support that connects the various side panels and holds angular alignments among the various side panels. In implementations, the diaphragm216is connected to at least a part of each respective interior surface of the side panels202-214. The region generally bounded by the interior surfaces of the side panels202-214may be considered an interior region of the workpiece tool200, and thus the diaphragm216is disposed within the interior region. In some implementations, the diaphragm is centered with respect to the width of the side panels as described further with respect toFIG.3. In other implementations, the diaphragm is aligned to an edge of the side panels with respect to their width as described further with respect toFIG.3.

The diaphragm216includes a plurality of cutouts218. Each of the cutouts218is partially bounded by one of the side panels202-214. The cutouts218are pass-through openings for fasteners or clamps, and increase the accessibility to and exposed area of the interior surface of the respective side panel. In this way, a clamp or fastener may easily be attached to or access portions of the interior surface along the full width of the respective side panel, without interference from the diaphragm216. In some implementations, the cutouts have a width ranging from about 1″ to about 2″ and lengths ranging from about 2″ to about 3″. The size and shape of each respective cutout may be referred to by its footprint, e.g., a two-dimensional region as seen from a viewpoint perpendicular to the diaphragm216.

In some implementations, the workpiece tool200includes at least one weld relief220at the joinder of two side panels. The weld relief220is an external cutout that prevents the exterior surfaces of the respective side panels from reaching a point of intersection. The weld relief220allows the workpiece tool200to be aligned with workpieces despite the presence of deposited weld materials. For example, two workpieces that have been welded to form an acute angle may include a welding bead inside of the acute angle. In such an example, the welding bead obstructs conventional tools from becoming properly aligned with the workpieces, while the workpiece tool200with the weld relief220is capable of becoming flush with both workpieces and achieving proper alignment. Further, in some implementations the weld reliefs220may provide aligned surfaces similar to a side panel. The weld reliefs220depicted inFIG.2provide aligned surfaces on a plane that is parallel to the side panel202.

Further, in some implementations the workpiece tool200includes at least one tapped hole222. The tapped hole222allows various attachments to be removably affixed to the workpiece tool200, as described in greater detail with respect toFIGS.8and9. In some implementations, the tapped hole222is a ¼″-20tapped hole. As illustrated, the tapped hole222is parallel to the width of one or more side panels. In some implementations, the workpiece tool200includes additional holes, such as holes through a side panel that may be utilized to fasten the workpiece tool200to a modular welding table. For example, the workpiece tool200may include ⅝″ through-holes in the side panels for the purpose of alignment with ⅝″ holes in a modular welding table.

The workpiece tool200further includes a master cutout224. The master cutout224is partially bounded by the diaphragm216and is generally unbounded by any of the side panels202-214. The master cutout224is an opening that provides accessibility for joining workpieces displaced within or proximate to the master cutout224, as described in greater detail with respect toFIGS.5,12, and13. In some implementations, the master cutout224has a radius ranging from about 0.5″ to about 2″. The size and shape of the master cutout224may be referred to by its footprint, e.g., a two-dimensional region as seen from a viewpoint perpendicular to the diaphragm216. In some implementations, the footprint of the master cutout224is larger than the footprint of any other cutout, e.g. the cutouts218.

The workpiece tool200is balanced such that the workpiece tool200can stand on any one of the side panels202,204,206,212,214, or on the weld reliefs220. In implementations, the workpiece tool200is a made from a metal such as steel, iron, or aluminum, however any suitable substance may be utilized such as various metals, woods, plastics, and so forth. In implementations, the workpiece tool200is a single solid object created from CNC machining, however any suitable formation technique may be utilized such as 3D printing a single solid object, or by attaching multiple objects together such as by gluing, welding, fastening with screws, and so forth.

FIG.3depicts implementations of the workpiece tool200, including two alternate implementations taken along line A-A. The diaphragm216is oriented to be orthogonal to each of the side panels202-214. In some implementations, the diaphragm is centered with respect to the width of the side panels as depicted in the cutout perspective300. In other implementations, the diaphragm is aligned to an edge of the side panels with respect to their width as depicted in the cutout perspective302.

FIG.4depicts a workpiece tool400in accordance with one or more implementations. The workpiece tool400may be, for example, the workpiece tool200ofFIG.2. Planes402and404extend into and out of the page upon whichFIG.4appears, and are aligned with two side panels of the workpiece tool400. In the illustrated and described implementation ofFIG.4, plane402is aligned with side panel202, and plane404is aligned with side panel206. The planes402and404are depicted with dotted lines, and continue infinitely as indicated by arrows at the ends of the depicted lines. The planes402and404intersect at a point406. The area generally bounded by the plane402, the plane404, and the side panel204corresponds to an access space408.

The access space408provides accessibility for joining workpieces that are located proximate to the planes402and/or404, or to workpieces located within the access space408itself. For example, if substantially straight workpieces are aligned with the side panels202and206, respectively, they are also aligned with the planes402and404, respectively, and may form a joint at the point406. In such an example, a user has unobstructed access to the access space408. By virtue of the access space408, the user may operate upon the workpiece at any portion of the joint formed at the point406, including on portions of the joint that are only accessible via the access space408.

The workpiece tool400includes a plurality of access spaces, however for visual clarity only a single access space408is expressly depicted. The access spaces may vary in size and/or shape. In implementations, there is an access space adjacent to each of the side panels202,204,206,212, and214. For instance, an access space adjacent to side panel202is generally bounded by the side panel202and by planes aligned with the side panels204and214. In the illustrated and described implementation ofFIG.4, the access space adjacent to side panel202is smaller than the access space408that is adjacent to side panel204. As another example, an access space adjacent to the side panel206is generally bounded by the side panel206, a plane aligned with the side panel204, and a plane aligned with the weld reliefs220. In the illustrated and described implementation ofFIG.4, the access space adjacent to side panel206is smaller than the access space408that is adjacent to side panel204. In this way, the workpiece tool400provides various access spaces of differing shapes and sizes. The access spaces may be utilized not only for direct access to the region, but may also be utilized to align objects despite obstructions proximate to the access space. For instance, the objects forming a joint near the point406may include a welding bead other protrusion that extends into the access space408. The access space408allows the objects to be aligned with the side panels202and206despite the protrusion, whereas a conventional tool would be unable to align the objects.

FIG.5depicts a workpiece tool500that is operable to employ techniques described herein. The workpiece tool500may be, for example, the workpiece tool200ofFIG.2. The diaphragm216is aligned with a reference plane that extends along the page upon whichFIG.5appears. The side panel208is aligned with a plane502, and the side panel210is aligned with a second plane504. The first plane502and the second plane504are depicted with dotted lines, extend into and out of the page upon whichFIG.5appears, and continue infinitely as indicated by arrows at the ends of the depicted lines. In the illustrated and described implementation ofFIG.5, the reference plane, the first plane502, and the second plane504are orthogonal planes, and thus the diaphragm216, the side panel208, and the side panel210are orthogonal to one another.

The workpiece tool500further includes a master cutout224. The master cutout224is partially bounded by the diaphragm216and is generally unbounded by the side panels208and210. The master cutout224is an opening that generally extends from a point506that is the intersection of the planes502and504. In the illustrated and described implementation ofFIG.5, the master cutout224is generally circular in shape extending a radius from the point506, as depicted by the circular region508. The side panels208and210each include a cutout that extends a distance from the point506that is greater than the radius of the circular region508.

FIG.6depicts a workpiece tool600(shown from two different perspectives) that is operable to employ techniques described herein. The workpiece tool600includes side panels602and604. The side panels602and604each have an interior surface and an exterior surface. For example, the side panel602has interior surface602aand exterior surface602b. Likewise, the side panel604has interior surface604aand exterior surface604b. The side panel602is connected by the interior surface602ato a diaphragm606, and the side panel604is connected by the interior surface604ato a diaphragm608.

The side panels602and604of the workpiece tool600provide flat surfaces, e.g., the respective interior and exterior surfaces, for aligning, clamping, fastening, holding, or measuring materials or workpieces, and so forth. The side panels602and604form an angle A in relation to one another. The angle A is not a fixed angle, and in the illustrated and described implementation ofFIG.6, the angle A can be varied up to about 100-degrees. The side panel602and the side panel604do not contact one another, and the angle A may be conceptualized based on planes aligned with the side panel602and the side panel604. In the illustrated and described implementation ofFIG.6, the side panel602is aligned with a plane610and the side panel604is aligned with a plane612. The planes610and612are depicted as dotted lines and extend into and out of the page upon whichFIG.6appears, and continue infinitely as indicated by arrows at the ends of the depicted lines. The planes610and612intersect at a point614, which is consider as a point forming the angle A.

Accordingly, workpieces aligned with (e.g., clamped to) the side panels602and604will become aligned, one to another, at a specific yet variable angle A. The side panels602and604each have a respective width, illustrated as “W” in the rightmost illustration. The width W is sufficiently large to provide an area upon which nearly any workpiece can become easily aligned with the respective side panel. As an example, the area provided by a side panel is large enough to ensure that a cylindrical workpiece will always contact the side panel at a point of tangency. In some implementations, the side panels have a width W ranging from about 1.5″ to about 3″, and lengths ranging from about 6″ to about 12″. Other dimensions can, of course, be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.

The diaphragms606and608are structural supports that connect the side panels602and604. The diaphragm606and the diaphragm608are connected via a hinge616. The hinge616is offset a distance from the point614, which allows the angle A to be varied without obstructing access to objects located at point614. The diaphragms606and608may freely pivot around the hinge616, subject to a hinge constraint618. In implementations, the hinge constraint618is received within a corresponding slot620. Motion of the workpiece tool600around the hinge is described in greater detail with respect toFIG.7.

The hinge constraint618may be any mechanism that is capable of locking the hinge in place, thereby fixing the side panels at a specific angle. For example, in some implementations the hinge constraint618includes a nut and bolt placed through a slot620in each of the diaphragms606and608, capable of squeezing the diaphragms606and608together when the nut is tightened. In other implementations, the hinge constraint618may be included as a part of the hinge616itself. When the hinge constraint618is activated to lock the hinge in place, the side panels602and604are held at a particular angular alignment. In some implementations, the workpiece tool600may include markings or indicators that designate the angle created by a current position of the hinge616.

The diaphragms606and608are generally centered with respect to the width of the side panels. However, due to the split diaphragm of the workpiece tool600, the diaphragms606and608occupy parallel adjacent planes and may cause a sideways displacement with respect to the width of the side panels. In some implementations, one or both of the diaphragms606and608are offset from center to compensate for this displacement and to maintain alignment of the side panels602and604.

The diaphragms606and/or608may each include a plurality of cutouts622. Each of the cutouts622is partially bounded by one of the side panels602or604. The cutouts622are pass-through openings for fasteners or clamps, and increase the accessibility to and exposed area of the interior surface of each respective side panel. In this way, a clamp or fastener may easily be attached to or access portions of the interior surface along the full width of the respective side panel, without interference from the respective one of diaphragms606or608. In some implementations, the cutouts have a width ranging from about 1″ to about 2″ and lengths ranging from about 2″ to about 3″. The size and shape of each respective cutout may be referred to by its footprint, e.g., a two-dimensional region as seen from a viewpoint perpendicular to the diaphragm216.

The workpiece tool600further includes a master cutout624. The master cutout624is partially bounded by the diaphragms606and608, and is generally unbounded by the side panels602and604. The master cutout624is an opening that provides accessibility for joining workpieces displaced within or proximate to the master cutout624, as described in greater detail with respect toFIGS.14and15.

In implementations, the workpiece tool600is a made from a metal such as steel, iron, or aluminum, however any suitable substance may be utilized such as various metals, woods, plastics, and so forth. In implementations, each component including a side panel and a diaphragm (e.g. the side panel602and the diaphragm606, or the side panel604and the diaphragm608) is a single solid object created from CNC machining, however any suitable formation technique may be utilized such as 3D printing a single solid object, or by attaching multiple objects together such as by gluing, welding, fastening with screws, and so forth.

FIG.7depicts the workpiece tool600, depicted with solid lines in a first state700. As the diaphragm606rotates about the hinge616, the angle formed by the side panels changes. The diaphragm606may be rotated to alter the alignment of the side panels with respect to one another. Dashed lines depicting a second state702illustrate the diaphragm606having been rotated to increase the interior angle formed by the side panels. Since the hinge616is an offset hinge that is not located proximate either of the planes forming the angle, the side panels are parallel with a fixed displacement when the angle is 0-degrees. When the diaphragm606is rotated beyond 0-degrees, the angle is formed on the opposite side of the workpiece tool600, as depicted by dashed lines in a third state704. Thus, the workpiece tool600is capable of forming angles on the left side of the device (e.g., states700and702) such that the intersection of planes of the side panels occurs at a point located to the left of the hinge, and is also capable of forming angles on the right side of the device (e.g., state704) such that the intersection of planes of the side panels occurs at a point located to the right of the hinge. In some implementations, the workpiece tool600can form an interior angle that varies anywhere from about 100-degrees on the left side to about 100-degrees on the right side.

FIG.8depicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool800is modified to include various attachments802. The attachments802may be any implement capable of assisting in the alignment of workpieces with respect to the workpiece tool800. The attachments802may, for instance, be affixed to the workpiece tool800by inserting a screw through the attachments802and into tapped holes located in the workpiece tool800. In this scenario, the attachments802are depicted as flat tabs. By attaching the tabs to the workpiece tool800, additional contact areas are created that provide additional or alternative planes with which to align workpieces. As an example, the workpiece tool800may be placed on a flat surface, forming a 90-degree angle between the flat surface and a side panel of the workpiece tool800. In such an example, the addition of the attachments802perpendicular to a side panel provides a third, orthogonal contact surface, allowing any workpiece to be quickly oriented against three orthogonal surfaces.

FIG.9depicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool900is modified to include various attachments902. The attachments902may be any implement capable of assisting in the alignment of workpieces with respect to the workpiece tool900. The attachments902may, for instance, be affixed to the workpiece tool900by inserting a screw through the attachments902and into tapped holes located in the workpiece tool900. In this scenario, the attachments902are depicted as blocks with a ‘V’ shaped notch. The notch in this example is centered with respect to the width of the side panels of the workpiece tool900, such that flat surfaces extend in equal but opposite directions from a central deepest point of the notch. By adding the blocks to the workpiece tool900, additional contact areas (e.g., contact areas904) are created that provide additional or alternative planes with which to align workpieces. For example, a cylindrical workpiece may be placed into the notches of one or more blocks, becoming aligned with the central point of the notch. In such an example, the addition of the attachments902allows a cylindrical workpiece (a shape that is generally difficult to align using conventional tools) to be quickly and easily aligned not only with the plane of a side panel of the workpiece tool900, but also with the plane of a diaphragm of the workpiece tool900.

FIG.10depicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool1000is utilized to align two workpieces1002and1004. The workpiece tool1000may be, for example, the workpiece tool200ofFIG.2. The workpiece tool1000includes a first side panel1006and a second side panel1008. The side panels1006and1008are perpendicular to one another, but do not intersect or contact each other. The workpiece1002is aligned with the first side panel1006, and the workpiece1004is aligned with the second side panel1008. Accordingly, the workpieces1002and1004are aligned perpendicular to one another and intersect in a region1010. However, since the side panels1006and1008do not intersect but the workpieces1002and1004do intersect, an access space1012is formed between a side panel1014and the workpieces1002and1004. The access space1012provides access to the inside intersection1016of the workpieces1002and1004. This access may be utilized, for example, to insert welding equipment into the access space1012and perform welding techniques on the inside intersection1016of the joint formed by workpieces1002and1004. Accordingly, a single configuration is capable of providing simultaneous access to all points in proximity to the intersection of workpieces1002and1004.

Optionally, the workpieces1002and1004may be clamped or otherwise fastened to the side panels1006and1008, respectively. For example, workpiece1002may be clamped to the side panel1006by affixing a clamping device to an exterior surface of the workpiece1002and to the interior surface of the side panel1006. Likewise, workpiece1004may be clamped to the side panel1008by affixing a clamping device to an exterior surface of the workpiece1004and to the interior surface of the side panel1008. In some implementations, a portion of a clamp is passed through a cutout in the workpiece tool1000.

FIG.11depicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool1100is utilized to align two workpieces1102and1104. The workpiece tool1100may be, for example, the workpiece tool200ofFIG.2. The workpiece tool1100includes a first side panel1106and a second side panel1108. The side panels1106and1108are perpendicular to one another, but do not intersect or contact each other. The workpiece1102is aligned with the first side panel1106, and the workpiece1104is aligned with the second side panel1108. Accordingly, the workpieces1102and1104are aligned perpendicular to one another. However, the workpieces1102and1104do not intersect and are instead connected indirectly via a workpiece1110. Despite the lack of direct contact between workpieces1102and1104, their alignment with the workpiece tool1100ensures that the workpieces1102and1104remain at an angle of 90-degrees with respect to each other, regardless of a positioning or orientation of the workpiece1110. The workpiece1110may obstruct, collide, or overlap with the intersection of planes formed by the side panels1106and1108, and thus a conventional tool is unable to function in this scenario.

Further, an access space1112is formed between a side panel1114of the workpiece tool1100, the first workpiece1102, the second workpiece1104, and the third workpiece1110. The access space1112provides access to the inside intersection between workpieces1102and1110, and the inside intersection between workpieces1104and1110. This access may be utilized, for example, to insert welding equipment and perform welding techniques on the interior joints formed by the workpieces1102,1104, and1110. Accordingly, a single configuration is capable of providing simultaneous access to all points in proximity to the intersections of workpieces1102,1104, and1110.

Optionally, the workpieces1102and1104may be clamped or otherwise fastened to the side panels1106and1108, respectively. For example, workpiece1102may be clamped to the side panel1106by affixing a clamping device to an exterior surface of the workpiece1102and to the interior surface of the side panel1106. Likewise, workpiece1104may be clamped to the side panel1108by affixing a clamping device to an exterior surface of the workpiece1104and to the interior surface of the side panel1108. In some implementations, a portion of a clamp is passed through a cutout in the workpiece tool1100.

FIG.12depicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool1200is utilized to align two workpieces1202and1204. The workpiece tool1200may be, for example, the workpiece tool200ofFIG.2. The workpiece tool1200includes a first side panel1206and a second side panel1208. The side panels1206and1208are perpendicular to one another, but do not intersect or contact each other. Each of the side panels1206and1208has an interior surface and an exterior surface. The workpiece1202is aligned with the exterior surface of the first side panel1206, and the workpiece1204is aligned with the exterior surface of the second side panel1208. Accordingly, the workpieces1202and1204are aligned perpendicular to one another. The workpiece tool1200further includes a master cutout1210. The master cutout1210provides access to an exterior joint formed by the workpieces1202and1204. This access may be utilized, for example, to insert welding equipment and perform welding techniques on the exterior joint formed by workpieces1202and1204. Accordingly, a single configuration is capable of providing simultaneous access to all points in proximity to the intersection of workpieces1202and1204.

Optionally, the workpieces1202and1204may be clamped or otherwise fastened to the side panels1206and1208, respectively. For example, workpiece1202may be clamped to the side panel1206by affixing a clamping device to an exterior surface of the workpiece1202and to the interior surface of the side panel1206. Likewise, workpiece1204may be clamped to the side panel1208by affixing a clamping device to an exterior surface of the workpiece1204and to the interior surface of the side panel1208. In some implementations, a portion of a clamp is passed through a cutout in the workpiece tool1200.

FIG.13depicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool1300is utilized to align two workpieces1302and1304. The workpiece tool1300may be, for example, the workpiece tool200ofFIG.2. The workpiece tool1300includes a first side panel1306and a second side panel1308. The side panels1306and1308are perpendicular to one another, but do not intersect or contact each other. Each of the side panels1306and1308has an interior surface and an exterior surface. The workpiece1302is aligned with the interior surface of the first side panel1306, and the workpiece1304is aligned with the interior surface of the second side panel1308. Accordingly, the workpieces1302and1304are aligned perpendicular to one another. In some implementations, when a workpiece is aligned with the interior surface of a side panel, the workpiece may additionally be aligned with the diaphragm.

The workpiece tool1300further includes a master cutout1310. The master cutout1310provides access to both interior and exterior joints formed by the workpieces1302and1304. This access may be utilized, for example, to insert welding equipment and perform welding techniques on the interior and/or exterior joints formed by workpieces1302and1304. Accordingly, a single configuration is capable of providing simultaneous access to all points in proximity to the intersection of workpieces1302and1304.

Optionally, the workpieces1302and1304may be clamped or otherwise fastened to the side panels1306and1308, respectively. For example, workpiece1302may be clamped to the side panel1306by affixing a clamping device to an interior surface of the workpiece1302and to the exterior surface of the side panel1306. Likewise, workpiece1304may be clamped to the side panel1308by affixing a clamping device to an interior surface of the workpiece1304and to the exterior surface of the side panel1308. In some implementations, a portion of a clamp is passed through a cutout in the workpiece tool1300.

FIG.14depicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool1400is utilized to align two workpieces1402and1404. The workpiece tool1400may be, for example, the workpiece tool200ofFIG.3. The workpiece tool1400includes a first side panel1406and a second side panel1408. The side panels1406and1408form an angle with respect to one another, but do not contact or intersect each other. The angle may vary, such as through use of an adjustable hinge indirectly connecting the side panel1406to the side panel1408. Each of the side panels1406and1408has an interior surface and an exterior surface. The workpiece1402is aligned with the interior surface of the first side panel1406, and the workpiece1404is aligned with the interior surface of the second side panel1408. Accordingly, the workpieces1402and1404are aligned at a specific angle to one another. When a workpiece is aligned with the interior surface of a side panel, the workpiece may additionally be aligned with the diaphragm.

The workpiece tool1400further includes a master cutout1410. The master cutout1410provides access to an interior joint formed by the workpieces1402and1404. This access may be utilized, for example, to insert welding equipment and perform welding techniques on the interior joint formed by workpieces1402and1404. Accordingly, a single configuration is capable of providing simultaneous access to all points in proximity to the intersection of workpieces1402and1404.

Optionally, the workpieces1402and1404may be clamped or otherwise fastened to the side panels1406and1408, respectively. For example, workpiece1402may be clamped to the side panel1406by affixing a clamping device to an interior surface of the workpiece1402and to the exterior surface of the side panel1406. Likewise, workpiece1404may be clamped to the side panel1408by affixing a clamping device to an interior surface of the workpiece1404and to the exterior surface of the side panel1408. In some implementations, a portion of a clamp is passed through a cutout in the workpiece tool1400.

FIG.15depicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool1500is utilized to align two workpieces1502and1504. The workpiece tool1500may be, for example, the workpiece tool200ofFIG.3. The workpiece tool1500includes a first side panel1506and a second side panel1508. The side panels1506and1508form an angle with respect to one another, but do not contact or intersect each other. The angle may vary, such as through use of an adjustable hinge indirectly connecting the side panel1506to the side panel1508. Each of the side panels1506and1508has an interior surface and an exterior surface. The workpiece1502is aligned with the interior surface of the first side panel1506, and the workpiece1504is aligned with the exterior surface of the second side panel1508. Accordingly, the workpieces1502and1504are aligned at a specific angle to one another. When a workpiece is aligned with the interior surface of a side panel, the workpiece may additionally be aligned with the diaphragm.

The workpiece tool1500further includes a master cutout1510. The master cutout1510provides access to an interior joint formed by the workpieces1502and1504. This access may be utilized, for example, to insert welding equipment and perform welding techniques on the interior joint formed by workpieces1502and1504. Accordingly, a single configuration is capable of providing simultaneous access to all points in proximity to the intersection of workpieces1502and1504.

Optionally, the workpieces1502and1504may be clamped or otherwise fastened to the side panels1506and1508, respectively. For example, workpiece1502may be clamped to the side panel1506by affixing a clamping device to an interior surface of the workpiece1502and to the exterior surface of the side panel1506. Likewise, workpiece1504may be clamped to the side panel1508by affixing a clamping device to an exterior surface of the workpiece1504and to the interior surface of the side panel1508. In some implementations, a portion of a clamp is passed through a cutout in the workpiece tool1500.

FIG.16depicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool1600is utilized to align a workpiece1602. The workpiece tool1600includes a cutout1604. The cutout1604is a pass-through opening for fasteners or clamps, and increases the accessibility and exposed area of surfaces of a respective side panel. In this way, a clamp or fastener may easily be attached to or access portions of the interior surfaces along the full width of the respective side panel, without interference from the diaphragm.

The workpiece1602is removably affixed to the workpiece tool1600through use of a clamp1606. A first prong1608of the clamp1606is in contact with a surface of a side panel of the workpiece tool1600, while a second prong1610of the clamp1606is in contact with the workpiece1602aligned with the opposite surface of the side panel. To do so, the second prong1610is disposed within the cutout1604.

FIG.17depicts an example scenario in which two example modular workpiece tools1700and1702are combined to form additional geometrically aligned surfaces. The workpiece tool1700includes a side panel1704, and the workpiece tool1702includes a side panel1706. The side panels1704and1706are aligned, and may optionally be clamped or otherwise fastened to one another such as described above. In this way, geometric relationships among various side panels of the workpiece tool1700may be expanded to include geometric relationships with various side panels of the workpiece tool1702. As an example, side panel1704and side panel1708of the workpiece tool1700are oriented at an angle of 90-degrees, and side panel1706and side panel1710of the workpiece tool1702are parallel. In such as example, a modular connection between workpiece tools1700and1702as depicted inFIG.17expands the available geometric relationships among side panels such as by orienting the side panel1708an angle of 90-degrees with respect to side panel1710. In this way, a workpiece aligned with a side panel of the workpiece tool1700may be precisely aligned with respect to a workpiece aligned with a side panel of the workpiece tool1702. Further, the modular workpiece tools1700and1702may be positioned to expand a surface. For example, as depicted inFIG.17, a side panel1712of workpiece tool1700is combined with a side panel1714of workpiece tool1702to form a substantially continuous surface on a single plane.

FIG.18depicts an example scenario in which two example modular workpiece tools1800and1802are combined to form additional geometrically aligned surfaces. The workpiece tool1800includes a side panel1804, and the workpiece tool1802includes a side panel1806. The side panels1804and1806are aligned, and may optionally be clamped or otherwise fastened to one another such as described above. In this way, geometric relationships among various side panels of the workpiece tool1800may be expanded to include geometric relationships with various side panels of the workpiece tool1802.

As an example, it may be desirable to align two substantially straight workpieces to be parallel with a specified displacement. The workpiece tools1800and1802may be moved with respect to one another along the plane formed by side panels1804and1806, thereby increasing or decreasing the displacement between a side panel1808of workpiece tool1800and a side panel1810of workpiece tool1802. While conventional tools require a user to perform multiple manual measurements in multiple locations in order to orient objects to be parallel to one another, the modular workpiece tools1800and1802provide parallel planes of a fixed displacement. In this manner, the modular workpiece tools1800and1802allow workpieces to be quickly and easily oriented by aligning the workpieces with planes, rather than points.

FIG.19depicts an example scenario in which two example modular workpiece tools1900and1902are combined to form additional geometrically aligned surfaces. The workpiece tool1900includes a side panel1904, and the workpiece tool1902includes a side panel1906. The side panels1904and1906are aligned, and may optionally be clamped or otherwise fastened to one another such as described above. In this way, geometric relationships among various side panels of the workpiece tool1900may be expanded to include geometric relationships with a side panel1908of the workpiece tool1902. Thus, a workpiece aligned with a side panel of the workpiece tool1900may be precisely aligned with respect to a workpiece aligned with the side panel1908of the workpiece tool1902.

This may be particularly useful, for instance, when an angle is required that is not formed by the workpiece tool1900itself. For example, the side panel1908of the workpiece tool1902may be rotated to form a variable angle with respect to the side panel1910of the workpiece tool1900. This is particularly useful when aligning workpieces at an angle near 180-degrees. Although the workpiece tool1900by itself is capable of aligning the side panels1906and1908at or near 180-degrees (i.e., parallel), the point of intersection of the planes corresponding to the side panels1906and1908grows increasingly further away as the angle approaches 180-degrees. By establishing an angular relationship between the side panel1908and the side panel1910, angles at or near 180-degrees may be created with a point of intersection located a reasonable distance (e.g., centimeters or inches) from the workpiece tools1900and1902.

FIG.20Adepicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool2000is utilized to align and hold various workpieces. In this example, two workpieces2002and2004are aligned with sides of the workpiece tool forming a 90-degree angle, and are held to the workpiece tool by utilizing clamps2006and2008, respectively. However, a third workpiece2010is used to form a chamfered corner. Although the workpieces2002and2004are oriented at 90-degrees with respect to one another, no single joint forms a 90-degree angle. While conventional tools are blocked or obstructed by the workpiece2010, the workpiece tool2000is able to accurately align and hold the various workpieces.

FIG.20Bdepicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool2020is utilized to align and hold various workpieces. In this example, two workpieces2022and2024are aligned with sides of the workpiece tool forming a 90-degree angle, and the workpiece2024is held to the workpiece tool by utilizing a clamp2026. However, the first workpiece2022and the second workpiece2024are located on different vertical planes. Although workpieces2022and2024are oriented at 90-degrees with respect to one another, the workpieces do not intersect on the plane in which the 90-degree angle is formed. While conventional tools are unable to align objects that are located on different parallel planes, the workpiece tool2020is able to accurately align and hold the various workpieces.

FIG.21Adepicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool2100is utilized to align and hold various workpieces. In this example, a workpiece2102is aligned with a removable tab attachment2104that is connected to the workpiece tool2100. The workpiece2102is held to the removable tab attachment2104by using a clamp2106. In this manner, the workpiece2102is aligned at a point of tangency with respect to both a side of the workpiece tool2100and the removable tab attachment2104.

FIG.21Bdepicts an example scenario in which multiple workpiece tools2110and2112are utilized to align and hold workpieces2114and2116. In this example, the workpiece tools2110and2112are aligned with one another by aligning respective side panels. The workpiece tools2110and2112are held together by using a clamp2118. The workpieces2114and2116are aligned at an angle with respect to one another by aligning the workpiece2114with a side panel of the workpiece tool2110, and aligning the workpiece2116with a side panel of the workpiece tool2112.

FIG.22Adepicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool2200is utilized to align and hold various workpieces. In this example, two workpieces2202and2204are aligned to form a ‘T’ shape. However, the workpiece2204does not provide sufficient contact areas proximate the workpiece2202with which to provide an alignment via a conventional tool. The workpiece2202is instead aligned and held to a side of the workpiece tool2200. While conventional tools are unable to provide alignment due to the portions of workpiece2204that necessarily protrude to form the ‘T’ shape, the accessibility cutout of the workpiece tool2200allows accurate alignment of the workpieces2202and2204.

FIG.22Bdepicts an example scenario in which a workpiece tool2210is utilized to align and hold various workpieces. In this example, a workpiece2212is aligned to be vertical. However, the workpiece2212is fixed to a collar2214that obstructs access to a bottom portion of the workpiece2212. The workpiece2212is instead aligned at a vertically higher point and held to a side of the workpiece tool2210. While conventional tools are unable to provide alignment due to the obstructing collar2214, an access space of the workpiece tool2210allows accurate alignment of the workpiece2212.

FIG.23depicts a workpiece tool2300according to one or more implementations. In at least some implementations the workpiece tool2300represents a variation on the workpiece tool100and incorporates at least some features and/or attributes of the workpiece tool100.

The workpiece tool2300includes a side panel2302with an exterior surface2304and an interior surface2306, a side panel2308with an exterior surface2310and an interior surface2312, and a side panel2314with an exterior surface2316and an interior surface2318. According to implementations, workpieces can be placed against the exterior surfaces2304,2310,2316at various orientations to enable work to be applied to the workpieces.

The workpiece tool2300further includes a diaphragm2320that is at least partially connected to the side panels2302,2308,2314. The diaphragm2320, for instance, spans an interior space between the side panels2302,2308,2314and is approximately perpendicular to the side panels2302,2308,2314. Further, the diaphragm2320is recessed relative to upper edges of the side panels2302,2308,2314. The diaphragm2320includes apertures2322that are perforate the diaphragm2320. According to implementations the apertures2322are sized and spaced relative to one another to enable alignment of the apertures2322with apertures in an adjacent surface, such as a welding table and/or other apertured work surface. For instance, a pin, bolt, screw, and/or other attachment mechanism can be placed through the apertures2322to secure the workpiece tool2300to an adjacent surface.

In at least one implementation the apertures2322have a diameter in a range of 10-20 millimeters. Further, the apertures2322are spaced in a range of 1-3 inches on center relative to one another. This is not to be construed as limiting, however, and the apertures2322can be implemented in a variety of different sizes and spacings.

The workpiece tool2300further includes corner sections2324that partially span regions between the interior surfaces2306,2312,2318of the side panels2302,2308,2314, respectively. Further, the corner sections2324include perforations2326that are formed to accept insertion of a pin, bolt, screw, and/or other mechanism. In at least one implementation the perforations2326are tapped to accept threaded insertion of a threaded object.

FIG.24depicts the workpiece tool2300in accordance with one or more implementations. In this particular view the workpiece tool2300includes the apertures2322in the diaphragm2320as well as apertures2400in the side panels2302,2308,2314. According to implementations the apertures2400are sized and spaced relative to one another to enable alignment of the apertures2400with apertures in an adjacent surface, such as a welding table and/or other apertured work surface. For instance, a pin, bolt, screw, and/or other attachment mechanism can be placed through the apertures2400to secure the workpiece tool2300to an adjacent surface.

In at least one implementation the apertures2400have a diameter in a range of 10-20 millimeters. Further, the apertures2400are spaced in a range of 1-3 inches on center relative to one another. This is not to be construed as limiting, however, and the apertures2400can be implemented in a variety of different sizes and spacings.

FIG.25depicts a bottom view of the workpiece tool2300in accordance with one or more implementations. In this view a bottom surface2500of the diaphragm2320is visible along with the apertures2322through the diaphragm2320.

FIG.26depicts a workpiece tool2600in accordance with one or more implementations. The workpiece tool2600includes a plurality of side panels2602including side panels2602a,2602b,2602c,2602d,2602e,2602f,2602g. The side panels2602are interconnected at different angles to enable a variety of different workpiece scenarios. Further, the side panels2602include respective exterior surfaces2604including respective exterior surfaces2604a,2604b,2604c,2604d,2604e,2604f,2604g. The side panels2602also include respective interior surfaces2606including respective interior surfaces2606a,2606b,2606c,2606d,2606e,2606f,2606g.

The workpiece tool2600further includes a diaphragm2608that at least partially spans an area between the side panels2602. The diaphragm2608includes apertures2610including apertures2610a,2610b,2610c,2610d,2610e. In at least one implementation the apertures2610have a diameter in a range of 10-20 millimeters. Further, the apertures2610b,2610care spaced in a range 1-3 inches on center, e.g., center to center. Similarly, the apertures2610d,2610eare spaced in a range 1-3 inches on center. In implementations, an attachment mechanism can be placed through the apertures2610to attach the workpiece tool2600to an adjacent surface.

The workpiece tool2600further includes perforations2612and a cutout2614. In at least one implementation the perforations2612are tapped to accept threaded insertion of a threaded object. Further, the perforations2612are positioned at junctures between the side panels2602. The cutout2614is positioned at a center of the workpiece tool2600and enables a workpiece to be placed in a centered position relative to the workpiece tool2600. For instance, the exterior surface2604fof the side panel2602fdefines a first plane that intersects a second plane defined the exterior surface2604gof the side panel2602g. Thus, a set of workpieces can be placed (e.g., clamped) along the exterior surfaces2604g,2604gsuch that the ends of the workpieces are positioned within the cutout2614, such as to enable the workpieces to be joined at their ends.

FIG.27depicts the workpiece tool2600in accordance with one or more implementations. In this particular view the workpiece tool2600includes apertures2700in the side panels2602. According to implementations the apertures2700are sized and spaced relative to one another to enable alignment of the apertures2700with apertures in an adjacent surface, such as a welding table and/or other apertured work surface. For instance, a pin, bolt, screw, and/or other attachment mechanism can be placed through the apertures2700to secure the workpiece tool2600to an adjacent surface.

In at least one implementation the apertures2700have a diameter in a range of 10-20 millimeters. Further, the apertures2700are spaced in a range of 1-3 inches on center relative to one another. This is not to be construed as limiting, however, and the apertures2700can be implemented in a variety of different sizes and spacings.

FIG.28depicts a bottom view of the workpiece tool2600in accordance with one or more implementations. In this view a bottom surface2800of the diaphragm2608is visible along with the apertures2610through the diaphragm2608.

FIG.29depicts an adjustable tool2900according to one or more implementations. The adjustable tool2900includes a tool body2902and a slidable member2904slidably engaged at least partially within the tool body2902. In at least one implementation the slidable member2904includes rule marks that are spaced according to different spacing increments, such as inches, centimeters, etc., and fractions thereof. The slidable member2904, for instance, represents a ruler that is usable for measuring objects and/or spacing between objects, e.g., workpieces.

The tool body2902includes side panels2906including side panels2906a,2906b,2906c,2906d. Further, the tool body2902includes a diaphragm2908that at least partially spans a region between the side panels2906. The diaphragm2908includes an insertion region2910which represents a region of the diaphragm2908into which the slidable member2904can be inserted. The insertion region2910includes a securing mechanism2912which in turn includes an adjustment member2914.

According to implementations the securing mechanism2912is operable to allow or restrict (e.g., prevent) movement of the slidable member2904relative to the tool body2902. For instance, manipulation of the adjustment member2914to a first position can allow slidable movement of the slidable member2904relative to the tool body2902, and manipulation of the adjustment member2914to a second position can restrict slidable movement of the slidable member2904relative to the tool body2902. In an example implementation the securing mechanism2912includes an internal clamp that can apply and release pressure on the slidable member2904to control whether the slidable member2904can be moved relative to the tool body2902. For instance, rotating the adjustment member2914clockwise can cause the securing mechanism2912to increase pressure applied to the slidable member2904to restrict movement of the slidable member2904, and rotating the adjustment member2914counterclockwise can cause the securing mechanism2912to reduce (e.g., release) pressure on the slidable member2904to allow slidable movement of the slidable member2904relative to the tool body2902.

FIG.30depicts an implementation of the adjustable tool2900with the slidable member2904repositioned relative to the tool body2902in accordance with one or more implementations. For instance, the adjustment member2914is manipulated to cause the securing mechanism2912to allow the slidable member2904to slide laterally within the insertion region2910and to be repositioned relative to the tool body2902, e.g., relative to the position depicted inFIG.29.

FIG.31depicts example geometric attributes of the adjustable tool2900in accordance with one or more implementations. InFIG.31, the slidable member2904has been repositioned relative to the tool body2902. Further,FIG.31illustrates that the side panel2906bdefines a plane3100a, the side panel2906cdefines a plane3100b, and the side panel2906ddefines a plane3100c. In at least one implementation, the side panel2906cis at a 45 degree angle relative to the side panels2906b,2906c, e.g., the plane3100bintersects the planes3100a,3100cat 45 degrees.

Accordingly, intersection of the different planes3100illustrates that the adjustable tool2900forms an open region3102encompassed by the planes3100a,3100b,3100c. Further, the slidable member2904is extendable into and retractable from the open region3102. For instance, consider that in a usage scenario the side panel2906dis clamped against a surface such as a welding table. This would enable the open region3102to be used for various purposes, such as measuring workpieces using the slidable member2904.

The side panel2906adefines a plane3100dthat intersects the plane3100a, e.g., at 90 degrees. In at least one implementation the side panels2906a,2906dare substantially parallel.

FIG.32depicts the adjustable tool2900at an angled orientation in accordance with one or more implementations. This this illustrates that the diaphragm2908is inset relative to the side panels2906which exposes interior surfaces of the side panels2906. This allows the side panels2906to be manipulated in different ways, such as clamped against an adjacent surface to support different work scenarios.

FIG.32also illustrates that the side panel2906bincludes a slot3200in which the slidable member2904is positioned. The slot3200, for instance, perforates an outer surface of the side panel2906band extends into the insertion region2910and the securing mechanism2912, which are illustrated in previous figures and introduced above. Accordingly, the slidable member2904is movable laterally within the slot3200.

FIG.33depicts a bottom view of the adjustable tool in accordance with one or more implementations. In this implementation the insertion region2910of the diaphragm2908includes an adjustment member3300aand an adjustment member3300bthat are operable to adjust an orientation of the slidable member2904relative to the tool body2902. As further discussed below, for example, the adjustment members3300can be manipulated to adjust a position (e.g., height) of the slidable member2904within the slot3200of the insertion region2910. The adjustment members3300can be implemented in various ways, such as inset screws (e.g., Allen screws) placed within the insertion region2910.

Also illustrated is that the tool body2902includes perforations3302at different points along the side panels2906. The perforations3302, for instance, are positioned at a juncture of each side panel2906. In implementations the perforations3302are formed to accept insertion of a pin, bolt, screw, and/or other mechanism. In at least one implementation the perforations3302are tapped to accept threaded insertion of a threaded object.

Also illustrated is that the adjustable tool2900includes a level3304that is positioned to enable the side panel2906ato be utilized to determine a level status of an adjacent object. For instance, the side panel2906acan be placed on a surface and the level3304can be utilized to determine a level status of the surface.

FIG.34depicts an upper side view of the adjustable tool2900in accordance with one or more implementations. This view, for example, shows an opposite side of the adjustable tool2900than illustrated in the previous figures.

FIG.35depicts the adjustable tool2900with a position of the slidable member2904manipulated relative to the tool body2902in accordance with one or more implementations. For instance, the adjustment members3300are manipulated to adjust a position of slidable member2904within the insertion region2910. In this particular example adjustment of the slidable member2904causes a top edge3500of the slidable member2904to extend above an exterior surface3502of the side panel2906b. For instance, manipulation of the slidable member2904via the adjustment members3300causes the top edge3500to protrude above the slot3200and introduces a gap3504between the top edge3500and the exterior surface3502.

As mentioned previously the adjustment members3300can be implemented in various ways to enable a position of the slidable member2904to be adjusted relative to the tool body2902. For instance, in a threaded scenario, clockwise rotation of the adjustment members3300can apply pressure against the slidable member2904and push the slidable member2904upward within the insertion region2910to cause the slidable member to extend out of the slot3200. Further, counterclockwise rotation of the adjustment members3300can release pressure against the slidable member2904and allow the slidable member2904to receded into the slot3200within the insertion region2910.

Accordingly, the adjustment members3300are adjustable to cause the top edge3500of the slidable member2904to be positioned one or more of coplanar with the exterior surface3502of the side panel2906b, or below the exterior surface3502of the side panel2906b.

Implementations discussed herein include one or more of:

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool including: a first side panel having an interior surface and an exterior surface; a second side panel joined to the first side panel, the second side panel having an interior surface and an exterior surface; a third side panel joined to the first side panel and the second side panel, the third side panel having an interior surface and an exterior surface; and a diaphragm connected to at least portions of the interior surface of the first side panel, the interior surface of the second side panel, and the interior surface of the third side panel, the diaphragm including a first set of apertures that are sized and spaced relative to one another to align with apertures in an adjacent surface.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool, further including one or more corner portions positioned between one or more of the first side panel, the second side panel, or the third side panel, the one or more corner portions including one or more perforations.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool, wherein the one or more perforations include one or more tapped holes configurated to accept a threaded object.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool, wherein the diaphragm is inset relative to top edges of the first side panel, the second side panel, and the third side panel.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool, wherein the diaphragm is coplanar relative to bottom edges of the first side panel, the second side panel, and the third side panel.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool, wherein one or more of the first side panel, the second side panel, or the third side panel includes a second set of apertures that are sized and spaced relative to one another to align with apertures in an adjacent surface.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool, wherein one or more a sizing or a spacing of the second set of apertures is substantially similar to one or more of a sizing or a spacing of the first set of apertures.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool including: a plurality of side panels including a first side panel and a second side panel, wherein each side panel of the plurality of side panels includes a respective interior surface and a respective exterior surface and at least some side panels of the plurality of side panels are interconnected; and a diaphragm connected to at least a portion of an interior surface of the first side panel and an interior surface of the second side panel, wherein the diaphragm includes a first set of apertures that are sized and spaced relative to one another to align with apertures in an adjacent surface, and wherein an exterior surface of the first side panel defines a first plane that intersects a second plane defined by an exterior surface of the second side panel.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool, wherein the plurality of side panels further includes a third side panel attached to the first side panel at an angled orientation, a fourth side panel attached to the third side panel at an angled orientation, a fifth side panel attached to the fourth side panel at an angled orientation, a sixth side panel attached to the fifth side panel at an angled orientation, and a seventh side panel attached to the sixth side panel and the second side panel.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool, wherein one or more of the third side panel, the fourth side panel, the fifth side panel, the sixth side panel, or the seventh side panel includes a second set of apertures that are sized and spaced relative to one another to align with apertures in an adjacent surface.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool, wherein one or more a sizing or a spacing of the second set of apertures is substantially similar to one or more of a sizing or a spacing of the first set of apertures.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a workpiece tool, wherein the diaphragm includes a cutout region between the first side panel and the second side panel, and wherein the first plane and the second plane extend through the cutout region.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an adjustable tool including: a tool body including: a first side panel, a second side panel, and a third side panel, the second side panel attached to the first side panel and the third side panel at an angled orientation relative to the first side panel and the third side panel; a fourth side panel attached to the third side panel at an angled orientation relative to the third side panel; and a diaphragm attached substantially perpendicular to the first side panel, the second side panel, the third side panel, and the fourth side panel, the diaphragm forming a slot that perforates an outer surface of the second side panel, an outer surface of the third side panel, and an outer surface of the fourth side panel; and a slidable member positioned at least partially within the slot and being slidable within the slot.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an adjustable tool, further including one or more adjustment members positioned at least partially within the diaphragm and being adjustable to move within the slot and apply pressure to the slidable member to enable adjustable movement of the slidable member within the slot.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an adjustable tool, wherein the one or more adjustment members are adjustable to cause a top edge of the slidable member to extend from an exterior surface of the third side panel.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an adjustable tool, wherein the one or more adjustment members are further adjustable to cause the top edge of the slidable member to be positioned one or more of coplanar with the exterior surface of the third side panel, or below the exterior surface of the third side panel.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an adjustable tool, wherein the first side panel defines a first plane, the second side panel defines a second plane, and the third side panel defines a third plane, and wherein the second plane intersects the first plane and the second plane.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an adjustable tool, wherein the second plane intersects the first plane and the second plane at approximately 45 degrees.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an adjustable tool, wherein the first plane intersect the third plane to form an open region encompassed by the first plane, the second plane, and the third plane, and wherein the slidable member is extendable into the open region.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an adjustable tool, further including a securing mechanism that is adjustable to allow and restrict slidable movement of the slidable member within the slot.

CONCLUSION

Accordingly, workpiece tools and techniques are described. The workpiece tools are usable to ensure consistent and durable alignment of various workpieces while providing access for performing attachment techniques thereon, which is not possible using conventional tools and techniques. Accessibility cutouts and access spaces may provide a user simultaneous access to points around a joint formed by objects aligned the alignment surfaces. In this way, the workpiece tool provides accessibility that allows a user to operate upon a workpiece, e.g., as by joining aligned objects together, without interfering or obstructing access to the objects. Further, cutouts provide increased access to interior surfaces of the workpiece tool, such as to increase the area available for use of clamps or other fastening devices.