SELF-ADJUSTING POCKET HOLE JIG SYSTEM

A self-adjusting pocket hole jig system is presented having a base, an upright assembly operably connected to the base, a clamp and drill guide assembly operably connected to the upright assembly, and an actuator assembly operably connected to the clamp and drill guide assembly. The clamp and drill guide assembly is configured to move along the upright assembly in response to movement of a handle of the actuator assembly upward and downward. Movement of the handle downward automatically adjusts the height of the clamp and drill guide assembly based on thickness of the workpiece for drilling of a pocket hole. In one or more arrangements, rotation of the handle downward from a non-clamping position to a clamping position simultaneously locks the clamp and drill guide assembly in place along the upward assembly and clamps the workpiece between the clamp and drill guide assembly and a backstop of the base.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates generally to jig systems for holding workpieces. More specifically and without limitation, this disclosure relates generally to improved drilling jig systems that facilitate faster and/or easier clamping of workpieces.

OVERVIEW OF THE DISCLOSURE

Pocket hole wood joinery involves joining boards by inserting a fastener at an angle through the edge of one workpiece into an adjoining workpiece, thereby joining the two workpieces together. Such joints are commonly used for face frames, cabinet boxes, leg-to-rail joinery in chairs and tables, and so forth. Drill guides or jigs are used to drill the holes through which the fasteners or pocket screws are inserted into the adjoining workpiece.

To facilitate the formation of pocket hole joinery, Applicant, Kreg Tool Company offers a line of pocket hole jigs. These pocket hole jigs are configured to clamp a workpiece in place and help guide a stepped drill bit at an angle into a workpiece thereby forming a pocket hole in the workpiece. The pocket hole formed by this process is configured to receive a screw that is used to screw two workpieces together.

Existing jigs for use forming pocket hole joinery have a variety of configurations and operate in a variety of manners. These configurations and manners of operation leave much to be desired. In addition, all of the existing pocket hole jigs available have deficiencies and therefore are not well suited for various applications, they are unnecessarily time consuming or they are unnecessarily inefficient to use.

For the reasons stated above, and for other reasons stated below which will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the disclosure, there is a need in the art for a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that improves upon the state of the art.

Thus, it is an object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that improves upon the state of the art.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that is easy to use.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that is efficient.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that can be used with any type of workpiece.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that is cost effective.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that forms accurate pocket holes.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that is safe to use.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that has a durable design.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that has a long useful life.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that provides additional functionality for pocket hole jigs and pocket hole joinery.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that has a wide variety of uses.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that has a wide variety of applications.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that provides cost savings to a user.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that is relatively inexpensive.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that provides value.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that prevents or reduces relative movement between the pocket hole jig and the workpiece.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that reduces the amount of clamping pressure required to adequately clamp a pocket hole jig to a workpiece.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates the formation of aesthetically pleasing finished products.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that provides a clamping with movement of a handle in a single plane.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates easier clamping.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates raising and lowering of the drill guide assembly with movement of the handle in a single plane.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates easy release of the clamping mechanism.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates easy return of the clamping mechanism to a non-clamping position.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates easy adjustment of the clamping pressure.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates stable placement when used horizontally.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates stable placement when used vertically.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates easy removal of chips and debris during use.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that is comfortable to use.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that is more stable than other pocket hole jigs.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates automatic return of the clamping assembly to a non-clamping position.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that facilitates spring loaded return of the clamping assembly to a non-clamping position.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that improves the ergonomics of use.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that easily adjusts to workpieces of various thicknesses.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that adjusts the drill guide assembly to the optimum position for each workpiece.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that consistently applies the same clamping pressure regardless of workpiece thickness.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that improves the intuitiveness of drilling pocket hole jigs.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that improves the usability of pocket hole jigs.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that eliminates the ability to choose incorrect wood thickness.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that reduces set-up time.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that provides a single touch point for clamping and adjusting the position of the drill guide assembly.

Yet another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that provides convenient woodchip, dust and debris removal.

Another object of at least one embodiment of the disclosure is to provide a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system that provides easy removal and replacement of drill guide blocks.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of at least one embodiment will become apparent from the specification, figures and claims.

SUMMARY

In one or more arrangements, a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system is presented having a base, an upright assembly operably connected to the base, a clamp and drill guide assembly operably connected to the upright assembly, and an actuator assembly operably connected to the clamp and drill guide assembly. In one or more arrangements, the clamp and drill guide assembly is configured to move along the upright assembly in response to movement of a handle of the actuator assembly in a non-clamping position between a raised position and a lowered position. In one or more arrangements, movement of the handle downward automatically adjusts the height of the clamp and drill guide assembly based on thickness of the workpiece for drilling of a pocket hole. In one or more arrangements, rotation of the handle downward from a non-clamping position to a clamping position simultaneously locks the clamp and drill guide assembly in place along the upward assembly and clamps the workpiece between the clamp and drill guide assembly and a backstop of the base.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description of the embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. The embodiments of the present disclosure described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices of the present disclosure. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the principles and scope of the invention. It is intended to cover various modifications and similar arrangements and procedures, and the scope of the appended claims therefore should be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and similar arrangements and procedures. For instance, although aspects and features may be illustrated in or described with reference to certain figures or embodiments, it will be appreciated that features from one figure or embodiment may be combined with features of another figure or embodiment even though the combination is not explicitly shown or explicitly described as a combination. In the depicted embodiments, like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout the various drawings.

It should be understood that any advantages and/or improvements discussed herein may not be provided by various disclosed embodiments, or implementations thereof. The contemplated embodiments are not so limited and should not be interpreted as being restricted to embodiments which provide such advantages or improvements. Similarly, it should be understood that various embodiments may not address all or any objects of the disclosure or objects of the invention that may be described herein. The contemplated embodiments are not so limited and should not be interpreted as being restricted to embodiments which address such objects of the disclosure or invention. Furthermore, although some disclosed embodiments may be described relative to specific materials, embodiments are not limited to the specific materials or apparatuses but only to their specific characteristics and capabilities and other materials and apparatuses can be substituted as is well understood by those skilled in the art in view of the present disclosure.

It is to be understood that the terms such as “left, right, top, bottom, front, back, side, height, length, width, upper, lower, interior, exterior, inner, outer, and the like as may be used herein, merely describe points of reference and do not limit the present invention to any particular orientation or configuration.

As used herein, “and/or” includes all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items, such that “A and/or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A as well as B,” unless it is clearly indicated that only a single item, subgroup of items, or all items are present. The use of “etc.” is defined as “et cetera” and indicates the inclusion of all other elements belonging to the same group of the preceding items, in any “and/or” combination(s).

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include both the singular and plural forms, unless the language explicitly indicates otherwise. Indefinite articles like “a” and “an” introduce or refer to any modified term, both previously-introduced and not, while definite articles like “the” refer to a same previously-introduced term; as such, it is understood that “a” or “an” modify items that are permitted to be previously-introduced or new, while definite articles modify an item that is the same as immediately previously presented. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and/or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, characteristics, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not themselves preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, characteristics, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof, unless expressly indicated otherwise. For example, if an embodiment of a system is described at comprising an article, it is understood the system is not limited to a single instance of the article unless expressly indicated otherwise, even if elsewhere another embodiment of the system is described as comprising a plurality of articles.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected,” “coupled,” “mated,” “attached,” “fixed,” etc. to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element, and/or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected,” “directly coupled,” “directly engaged” etc. to another element, there are no intervening elements present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” “engaged” versus “directly engaged,” etc.). Similarly, a term such as “operatively”, such as when used as “operatively connected” or “operatively engaged” is to be interpreted as connected or engaged, respectively, in any manner that facilitates operation, which may include being directly connected, indirectly connected, electronically connected, wirelessly connected or connected by any other manner, method or means that facilitates desired operation. Similarly, a term such as “communicatively connected” includes all variations of information exchange and routing between two electronic devices, including intermediary devices, networks, etc., connected wirelessly or not. Similarly, “connected” or other similar language particularly for electronic components is intended to mean connected by any means, either directly or indirectly, wired and/or wirelessly, such that electricity and/or information may be transmitted between the components.

It will be understood that, although the ordinal terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited to any order by these terms unless specifically stated as such. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another; where there are “second” or higher ordinals, there merely must be a number of elements, without necessarily any difference or other relationship. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of example embodiments or methods.

Similarly, the structures and operations discussed herein may occur out of the order described and/or noted in the figures. For example, two operations and/or figures shown in succession may in fact be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved. Similarly, individual operations within example methods described below may be executed repetitively, individually or sequentially, to provide looping or other series of operations aside from single operations described below. It should be presumed that any embodiment or method having features and functionality described below, in any workable combination, falls within the scope of example embodiments.

As used herein, various disclosed embodiments may be primarily described in the context of drilling pocket holes. However, the embodiments are not so limited. It is appreciated that the embodiments may be adapted for use in other applications which may be improved by the disclosed structures, arrangements and/or methods. The system is merely shown and described as being used in the context of drilling pocket holes for ease of description and as one of countless examples.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, a self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10(or simply “system10”) is presented. In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10has a forward side12, a rearward side14, a top side16, a bottom side18, a left side20and a right side22.

Self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured facilitate quick and easy and secure clamping of workpieces24of various thickness as well as various sizes and shapes. In one or more arrangements, as is shown, system10includes a base26, an upright assembly28, an actuator assembly30, and a clamp and drill guide assembly32, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10is used to form pocket holes in a workpiece24. Workpiece24may be formed of any size, shape, and design. In the arrangement shown, as one example, workpiece24is a generally planar shaped piece of material that may be formed of wood, plywood, composite wood, plastic, MFD (medium density fiberboard) or any other material. Workpiece24may be a solid piece of wood, or it may be a composite piece of wood or other material. Workpiece24may be a large planar member, such as a four-by-eight sheet of plywood, or it may be a narrow and small member such as a piece of face-frame, or workpiece24may be anything in-between. Workpiece24may be thick, such as one and a half inches thick, such as a two-by-four, or thicker, or it may be as narrow as half an inch, or thinner. Essentially workpiece24may be formed of any size, shape, and design and configuration.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10includes a base26. Base26may be formed of any size, shape, and design and is configured to operably connect with upright assembly28, actuator assembly30, and clamp and drill guide assembly32to facilitate clamping of a workpiece24for drilling of pocket holes therein.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base26when viewed from the side is formed of a generally L-shaped member having lower portion40and a backstop42that are joined together and extend in approximate perpendicular alignment to one another. In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower portion40and backstop42have generally planar opposing sides46that extend in approximate parallel spaced relation to one another.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower portion40includes a rearward end48that is generally flat and planar in shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed by rearward end48extends in approximate perpendicular alignment to the planes of sides46of base26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the outward ends of rearward end48connect to the rearward end of sides46.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower portion40includes an upper surface52. In this example arrangement, upper surface52forms a generally flat and planar surface extending between sides46from rearward end48to a forward end50of lower portion40. In the arrangement shown, a forward portion56of upper surface52proximate to forward end50is configured to engage and support an end of a workpiece24thereon when the workpiece24is clamped against backstop42. To facilitate support of workpiece24, forward portion56forms a generally flat and planar surface that is approximate perpendicular alignment to the planes formed by sides46.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, rearward portion58of lower portion40of base26includes one or more connection features configured to facilitate operable connection with upright assembly28. In the arrangement shown, as one example, one or more slots62are generally centrally positioned within lower portion40when viewed from above or below and extends the majority of the distance between rearward end48and step54. Slot(s)62are configured to receive and hold the lower end110of upright assembly28therein so as to facilitate secure attachment of upright assembly28to base26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, once the lower ends110of halves122are inserted into slots62, the lower end110of upright assembly28is screwed or bolted to the lower portion40of base26using one or more fasteners that extend laterally through holes66of base26and lower end110of upright assembly28held within slot62, thereby securely attaching the lower end110of upright assembly28to lower portion40of base26.

In one or more arrangements, lower end110of upright assembly28is additionally connected to lower arm132of center support128that is positioned in a slot80in the lower side76of base. In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower arm132of center support128includes holes134to facilitate such connection, for example, using one or more fasteners that extend laterally through holes66of base26, lower ends110of halves122of upright assembly28and holes134of lower arm132of center support128.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lower side76of lower portion40forms a generally flat and planar surface that is configured to facilitate stable support when the lower side76of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10is placed on a flat work surface to be used in a vertical manner. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the generally flat planar surface of lower side76of lower portion40is formed by a lower end of a plurality of structural supports78that extend across and throughout the base26, including lower portion40as well as backstop42. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed by lower side76extends in approximate parallel spaced relationship to the planes of upper surface52and rearward portion58. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed by lower side76extends in approximate perpendicular alignment to the plane formed by sides46as well as the plane formed by rearward end48.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the forward end of lower portion40connects to a lower end90of backstop42. In the arrangement shown, as one example, backstop42includes a clamping surface92that is has a generally rectangular planar shape extending between sides46from lower end90to an upper end94of backstop42. In the arrangement shown, as one example, clamping surface92faces rearward. In the arrangement shown, as one example, clamping surface92is configured to engage and support a forward side of a workpiece24when the workpiece24is clamped against backstop42. To facilitate support of workpiece24, clamping surface92forms a generally flat and planar rearward facing surface of backstop42at the forward end of upper surface52. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed by clamping surface92extends in approximate perpendicular alignment to the planes of sides46of base26as well as to the plane formed by upper surface52of lower portion40.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, upper end94of backstop42is generally flat and planar in shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed by upper end94extends in approximate perpendicular alignment to the planes of sides46of base26as well as clamping surface92. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the outward ends of upper end94connect to the upper ends of sides46.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the forward side98of backstop42forms a generally flat and planar surface that is configured to facilitate stable support when the forward side98of backstop42of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10is placed on a flat work surface to be used in a horizontal manner. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the generally flat planar surface of forward side98of lower portion40is formed by a forward end of a plurality of structural supports78that extend across and throughout the base26, including lower portion40as well as backstop42. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed by forward side98of backstop42extends in approximate parallel spaced relationship to the plane formed by clamping surface92. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plane formed by forward side98of backstop42extends in approximate perpendicular alignment to the plane formed by sides46as well as the plane formed by upper end94.

In this way, the configuration of base26facilitates stable placement of and use of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10in a vertical manner, when resting on lower side76. In this way, the configuration of base26facilitates stable placement of and use of self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10in a horizontal manner, when resting on forward side98.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the distance between lower side76and upper surface52is approximately the thickness of a conventional two-by-four. Similarly, in the arrangement shown, as one example, the distance between forward side98and clamping surface92is approximately the thickness of a conventional two-by-four. As such, a conventional two-by-four can be used to make jigs or other support members when using self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10to drill pocket hole jigs regardless of whether the self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10is used in a vertical orientation or a horizontal orientation.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base26is a formed of a single monolithic member that is formed by any process such as molding, injection molding, casting, forming, machining, or through any other manufacturing process. In one or more arrangements, base26is formed of a solid member. In one or more arrangements, one or more portions of base26, may be formed of a hollow skeletonized structure with structural supports so as to provide the requisite strength while minimizing weight and material usage. In the arrangement shown, as one example, base26is skeletonized and includes structural supports78that extends across the lower side76and forward side98of base26.

Additionally or alternatively, in some other arrangements, base26is formed of a plurality of components that are operably connected to one another, for example, by fastening means (e.g., screws, bolts, pins, clips, etc.), clamps, press fitting, friction fitting, gluing, welding, adhering, or by any other manner, method or means or the like. In one or more arrangements, base26is formed of a plastic or composite material. In another arrangement, base26is formed of a metallic material. In another arrangement, base26is formed of a plastic or composite material that includes metallic support members that extend through the base26thereby providing additional strength and rigidity.

In one or more arrangements, self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10includes an upright assembly28connected to base26. Upright assembly28may be formed of any size, shape, and design and is configured to provide support for actuator assembly30and clamp and drill guide assembly32to facilitate clamping of workpiece24in self-adjusting pocket hole jig system10.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, upright assembly28has a contoured rectangular shape having a front104, a rear106, and opposing sides108extending from a lower end110, where upright assembly28connects with lower portion40of base26, to an upper end112.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, upright assembly28has a track114extending along front104. Track114is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to operably connect with and guide movement of clamp and drill guide assembly32. In the arrangement shown, as one example, track114is formed pair of opposing channels116extending along opening120in inward sides of the opposing sides108of upright assembly28. In this example arrangement, track guides184of a carrier170of clamp and drill guide assembly32are configured to engage and slide along channels116during operation to guide carrier170along track114of upright assembly28. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in some various arrangements, track114may additionally or alternatively utilize various other different methods and/or means to guide movement of clamp and drill guide assembly32.

In the arrangement shown, upright assembly28includes an opening120extending through a center portion of upright assembly28from front104to rear106. In this example arrangement, opening120permits actuator assembly30to extend through opening120and connect with clamp and drill guide assembly32and also permits actuator assembly30to be moved upward and downward by a user to facilitate clamping of a workpiece24using system10.

In one or more arrangements, as is shown, upright assembly28is formed by a pair of symmetric halves122, each form one of the respective sides108, which are joined together (e.g., by fasteners). However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather it is contemplated that sides108and/or other components forming upright assembly28may be connected to one another by any manner, method or means including but not limited to, for example fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, pins, clips, etc.), clamps, press fitting, friction fitting, gluing, welding, adhering, or by any other manner, method or means or the like. Additionally or alternatively, in some arrangements, upright assembly28may be formed as a unitary body.

In one or more arrangements, upright assembly28includes one or more ratchet strips124. Ratchet strips124are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured to engage a ratchet mechanism188of clamp and drill guide assembly32to facilitate holding of clamp and drill guide assembly32in position along track114when clamping of a workpiece24against clamping surface92of backstop42of base26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, ratchet strips124have teeth arranged along elongated strips with the teeth sloped downward to facilitate easier ratcheting of clamp and drill guide assembly32downward along track114when clamping workpiece24. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that some various arrangements may utilize various additional or alternative methods and/or means to hold clamp and drill guide assembly32in position along track114when clamping of a workpiece24. As one alternative example, in some arrangements, upright assembly28may include a ratcheting mechanism configured to engage ratchet strips of clamp and drill guide assembly32as drill guide assembly32is moved along track114.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system10includes a center support128. Center support128is itself formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to operably connect to lower portion40of base26and backstop42of base26and to provide support for upright assembly28. In the arrangement shown, as one example, center support128is formed of generally planar member L-shaped member having an upper arm130configured to operably connect with backstop42and a lower arm132configured to operably connect with lower portion40of base26and lower end110of upright assembly28.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, upper arm130is configured to be received and held within a slot96of backstop42extending upward from an underside of the backstop42. In this example arrangement, lower arm132is configured to be received and held within a central slot96of backstop42extending upward from an underside of the backstop42. In one or more arrangements, lower end110of upright assembly28is operably connected to lower arm132of center support128to provide secure support and connection between backstop42of base26and upright assembly28for clamping of workpieces24. In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower arm132of center support128includes holes134to facilitate such connection, for example, using one or more fasteners that extend laterally through holes66of base26, lower ends110of halves122of upright assembly28and holes134of lower arm132of center support128.

However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in some various arrangements, center support128may be operably connected with upright assembly28, base26, and/or other components of system10using various means, methods, and techniques known in the art including but not limited to, for example, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, and/or mechanical attachments means such as screws, bolts, threading, interlocks, latches, clips, pins, or other coupling devices.

In one or more arrangements, center support128is formed of a solid metallic material, so as to maximize strength and rigidity and durability as well as to provide a long useful life. However, other size shape or design as well as any other material is hereby contemplated for use for center support128.

Actuator Assembly30is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to facilitate movement of clamp and drill guide assembly32along track114of upright assembly28and clamping of a workpiece24. In the arrangement shown, as one example, actuator assembly30is formed of a lever140and a handle142, among other components.

Lever140is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to operably connect with clamp and drill guide assembly32and facilitate controlled movement of clamp and drill guide assembly32along track114and clamping. In this example arrangement, lever140is generally straight. However, embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that lever140may be straight, curved, angled, meandering, or be any other shape.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lever140is formed by a pair of elongated generally planar shaped bars144fastened together and extending from an upper end146of lever140, which is operably connected to a handle142, to a lower end148of lever140, which operably connected to clamp and drill guide assembly32. In this example arrangement, bars144of lever140fork proximate to the lower end148into a pair of arms150, which connect with clamp and drill guide assembly32.

In some various different arrangements, lower end148of lever140may be operably connected to clamp and drill guide assembly32using various different attachment means or methods. In the arrangement shown, as one example, arms150of lever140have an upper pivotal connection152and a lower pivotal connection154with clamp and drill guide assembly32. In this example arrangement, the upper pivotal connection152, operates to move clamp and drill guide assembly32along track114and also operates as a fulcrum as lever140is rotated downward. In this example arrangement, lower pivotal connection154is operably connected with a clamp assembly172of clamp and drill guide assembly32and operates to move a drill guide block174and clamping face260thereof forward when an upper end112of lever140is rotated rearward and downward.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, upper pivotal connection152and lower pivotal connection154each include holes156in arms150and a fastener158extending through holes156. However, embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that lower end148of lever140may be connected to clamp and drill guide assembly using various means, methods, and techniques known in the art including but not limited to, for example, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, and/or mechanical attachments means such as screws, bolts, threading, interlocks, latches, clips, pins, or other coupling devices.

Handle142is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate hand-controlled movement of upper end146of lever140by a user. In the arrangement shown, as one example, handle142is a pistol type hand grip positioned at upper end146.

In this example arrangement, handle142is oriented to facilitate a user moving lever140of actuator assembly30to move clamp and drill guide assembly32upward and downward along track114as also to facilitate rotation of the lever between clamping and non-clamping positions to facilitate locking of move clamp and drill guide assembly32in position along track114and clamping of workpieces24. However, embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that handle142may be implemented using various different types of handgrips including but not limited to horizontal handgrips, vertical handgrips, knobs, wheels, loops, and/or any other type of handle or handgrip.

As an illustrative example, in one or more arrangements, handle142is oriented to facilitate rotation of the lever140rearward and downward from a generally upright non-clamping position to a tilted clamping position. In this example arrangement, when handle142is rotated to the non-clamping position, clamp and drill guide assembly32is permitted to move upward and downward along track114. That is, when handle142is in the non-clamping position, handle142is oriented to facilitate a user moving lever140of actuator assembly30to move clamp and drill guide assembly32upward and downward along track114to place clamp and drill guide assembly32in proper position for clamping of a workpiece24. For example, a user may place a workpiece24on upper surface52of base26against clamping surface92backstop42of base and lower handle in the non-clamping position to move clamp and drill guide assembly32downward until clamping face260of drill guide block174of clamp and drill guide assembly32contacts workpiece. With clamping face260of drill guide block174of clamp and drill guide assembly32in contact with workpiece24, a user may rotate handle142downward and rearward from the non-clamping position to the clamping position. In one or more arrangements, when handle142is moved to the clamping position, clamp and drill guide assembly32becomes locked in position along track114. In one or more arrangements, when handle142is moved to the clamping position, clamping face260of drill guide block174is moved forward to facilitate clamping of workpiece24between clamping face260and clamping surface92. When drilling of a pocket hole is completed, a user may rotate handle142upward and forward to the non-clamping position to unclamp workpiece24and permit clamp and drill guide assembly32to move upward along track114to a raised position to facilitate easy removal of workpiece.

Clamp and Drill Guide Assembly32:

Clamp and drill guide assembly32is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate clamping of a workpiece24against clamping surface92of backstop42and drilling of pocket holes in the workpiece24. In the arrangement shown, as one example, clamp and drill guide assembly32includes a carrier170, a clamp assembly172, and a drill guide block174, among other components.

Carrier170is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to operably connect with and facilitate movement along track114of upright assembly28. In the arrangement shown, as one example, carrier170includes a main body180, a pair of rails182extending along a backside of the main body180, a set of track guides184, and a ratchet mechanism188, among other components.

Main body180of carrier170is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to interconnect various components of carrier170and operably connect with actuator assembly30and clamp assembly172. In the arrangement shown, as one example, main body180has a generally rectangular back190extending between an upper edge192, a lower edge194, and opposing side edges196. In this example arrangement, back190includes an opening198configured to facilitate connection of lever140of actuator assembly30with carrier170and clamp assembly172.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, main body includes a top wall202, a bottom wall204, and side walls206extending forward from back190. In this example arrangement, top wall202, bottom wall204, and/or side walls206include features208(e.g., channels, stops, etc.) to facilitate operable connection with clamp assembly172while permitting clamp assembly172to move forward and rearward relative to main body180.

Rails182are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured to operably connect main body180with track guides184and lever140of actuator assembly30. In the arrangement shown, as one example rails182have an elongated generally rectangular shape extending along a back surface of back190from upper edge192to lower edge194. In the arrangement shown, rails182are configured to fit within opening120of upright assembly28alongside track114with close and tight tolerances to help guide carrier170along track114. In the arrangement shown, rails182include a set of holes212to facilitate connection with upper pivotal connection152of lever140(e.g., by fastener158positioned within holes212and extending between rails182.

Track guides184are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured to engage track114and guide carrier170along track114. In the arrangement shown, as one example, track guides184are flanges that extend outward from the sides of rails182and into channels116of track114. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that some arrangements may utilize various additional and/or alternative methods and/or means to guide carrier170along track114.

In one or more arrangements, channels116of track114are wider than track guides184so as to permit carrier70of clamp and drill guide assembly32to move forward and backward relative to track114. In this example arrangement, carrier170includes bias members186configured to bias track guides184toward forward edges of channel channels116in absence of an opposing force. This arrangement permits carrier170and clamp and drill guide assembly32to move rearward as may be required during operation, for example, to avoid to overstressing components and/or facilitate ratcheting when clamping of workpieces24. In the arrangement shown, as one example, bias members186are leaf springs operably connected with carrier170and configured to engage track114or other surface of upright assembly28to bias carrier170and clamp and drill guide assembly32forward in absence of an opposing force. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in some various arrangements, bias members186may be implemented using various methods and/or means including but not limited to, for example, springs (e.g., compression springs, leaf springs and/or other flat springs, torsion springs, extension springs, and/or air springs), compressible materials, and/or any other method and/or means of biasing.

In one or more arrangements, clamp and drill guide assembly32includes a ratchet mechanism188. Ratchet mechanism188is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to ratchet and/or otherwise hold clamp and drill guide assembly32in position along track114when clamping of workpieces24. In the arrangement shown, as one example, ratchet mechanism188includes one or more ratchet strips216operably connected to carrier170. In this example arrangement, the ratchet strips216of ratchet mechanism188are operably connected to rearward edges of rails183of carrier170and are configured to engage ratchet strips124of upright assembly28when clamp and drill guide assembly32is moved rearward within track114of upright assembly28(e.g., when clamping of workpieces24).

In this example arrangement, when clamp and drill guide assembly32is moved rearward, teeth of ratchet strips216of ratchet mechanism188engage teeth of ratchet strips124of upright assembly28, which prevents clamp and drill guide assembly32from moving upward along track114. In this example arrangement, teeth of ratchet strips216and ratchet strips124are sloped in complementary directions so as to more easily permit clamp and drill guide assembly32to be moved downward along track114, thereby ratcheting clamp and drill guide assembly32into tighter engagement with a workpiece24to be clamped. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that some various arrangements may utilize various additional or alternative methods and/or means to hold clamp and drill guide assembly32in position along track114and/or facilitate ratcheting when clamping of a workpiece24.

In one or more arrangements, clamp and drill guide assembly32includes a clamp assembly172operably connected to carrier170, actuator assembly30, and drill guide block174. Clamp assembly172is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to be moved forward and rearward by actuator assembly30relative to carrier170to facilitate clamping of a workpiece24against clamping surface92of backstop42of base26.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, clamp assembly172includes a main body222having a front224, back226, top228, bottom230, and opposing sides232. In this example arrangement, back226is open and is configured to fit over front ends of top wall202, bottom wall204, and/or side walls206In this example arrangement, main body222of clamp assembly172has features234(not shown) configured to engage features208of main body180of carrier170to operably connect clamp assembly172with carrier170while permitting main body222of clamp assembly172to be moved forward and backward relative to carrier170.

In one or more arrangements, clamp assembly172includes a link236connecting lower pivotal connection154of lever140of actuator assembly30to main body222of clamp assembly172. In the arrangement shown, as one example, link236has an elongated generally rectangular planar shape extending between a forward end238and a rearward end240. In this example arrangement, link236has holes242to facilitate connection with lower pivotal connection154of lever140and main body222of clamp assembly172(e.g., by fasteners extending through holes242). In the arrangement shown, sides232of main body222of clamp assembly172include a set of holes246to facilitate connection with forward end239of link236(e.g., by a fastener248extending through holes246of sides232and hole242of forward end239of link236).

In one or more arrangements, link236and lever140operate to move clamp assembly172inward and outward as lever140is rotated upward and downward about a pivot point formed by upper pivotal connection152of lever140. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when lever140is rotated upward, lower pivotal connection154of lever140is moved downward and rearward, which moves rearward end240of link236downward and rearward, which causes forward end238of link236and main body222of clamp assembly172to be pulled rearward. Conversely, when lever140is rotated rearward, lower pivotal connection154of lever140is moved upward and forward, which moves rearward end240of link236upward and forward, which causes forward end238of link236and main body222of clamp assembly172to be pushed forward.

In the arrangement shown, main body222of clamp assembly172is formed of a pair of symmetric halves252that are operably connected together (e.g., by fasteners254). However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in some arrangements, halves252and/or other components forming clamp assembly172may be connected to one another by any manner, method or means including but not limited to, for example fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, pins, clips, etc.), clamps, press fitting, friction fitting, gluing, welding, adhering, or by any other manner, method or means or the like. Additionally or alternatively, in some arrangements, main body222and/or other components of clamp assembly172may be formed as a unitary body.

In one or more arrangements, clamp assembly172includes a pair of side covers276configured to attach to sides232of main body222, for example, to cover fasteners254and provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance. In the arrangement shown, as one example, side covers276have a generally planar shape matching the shape of main block when viewed from the side. In this example arrangement, side covers276have a set of features278configured to connect with features280of main body222to facilitate connection of side covers276with main body222. In the arrangement shown, features278and280are snap type features. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in some arrangement side covers276may be connected with main body222by various types of features, method or means including but not limited to, for example fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, pins, clips, etc.), clamps, snaps, connectors (e.g., latches, couplings, locks. etc.), press fittings, friction fittings, gluing, welding, adhering, or by any other manner, method or means or the like.

Drill Guide Block174:

In one or more arrangements, clamp and drill guide assembly32includes a drill guide block174operably connected to front224of main body220of clamp assembly172. Drill guide block174is formed of any size, shape, and design and is configured to be attached to and removed from clamp and drill guide assembly32and includes a clamping face260and drill guides262having bores264therein that facilitate drilling of pocket holes in workpiece24.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, drill guide block174includes a main body226having a clamping face260and an upper wall314. Drill guides262having generally cylindrical bores264that extend there through extend at an angle through drill guide block174such that the bore264of drill guides262intersect upper wall314at their upper end and intersect clamping face260at their lower end.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, drill guide block174includes a set of features270configured to engage and connect with a set of features272of main body220of clamp assembly172to facilitate connection of drill guide block174with clamping assembly38clamp and drill guide assembly32. In this example arrangement, features270are positioned adjacent the sides of drill guide block174and are configured to selectively connect with features272of clamping assembly38thereby holding drill guide block174onto clamping assembly38. In the arrangement shown, as one example, features272of clamping assembly are operably connected with buttons274configured to disconnect features272from features270when depressed. In this manner, features270and272provide a quick and easy and convenient way for drill guide blocks174to easily be installed, removed, and/or replaced. In this manner, various drill guide blocks174may be swapped out to allow for the use of different drill guide blocks174for servicing, replacement or for different drill bit sizes, applications, and/or purposes.

In one or more arrangements, upright assembly28and clamp and drill guide assembly32are configured to provide self-adjusting clamping of workpieces24for drilling of pocket holes. It should be understood that the proper distance from an edge of workpiece24at which a pocket hole should be drilled (or height at which drill guide block174of clamp and drill guide assembly32should be positioned for drilling pocket holes) depends on the thickness of the workpiece24. Generally speaking, as thickness of a workpiece24increases, pocket holes should be drilled further away from the edge of the workpiece24. Conversely, as thickness of a workpiece24decreases, pocket holes should be drilled closer to the edge of the workpiece24. In one or more arrangements, the position of drill guide block174relative to the edge of workpiece24may be adjusted by adjusting the height at which of clamp and drill guide assembly32is positioned along track114of upright assembly28when clamping of a workpiece24.

In one or more arrangements, upright assembly28and clamp and drill guide assembly32are configured to self-adjusting the height at which clamp and drill guide assembly32is positioned along track114when clamping of workpieces24. In the arrangement shown, as one example, track114of upright assembly28is oriented at an angle (e.g., angle α inFIG.1), sloping rearward from clamping surface92of backstop42of base26as upright assembly28extends upward from lower portion40of base26, such that when a workpiece24is placed in system10against clamping surface92and clamp and drill guide assembly32is moved downward along track114to a point where clamping face260of drill guide block174contacts workpiece24, the drill guide block174is positioned at an appropriate distance from a lower edge of the workpiece24for drilling a pocket hole for that particular thickness of workpiece.

As an illustrative example, to drill a pocket hole in a ½ inch thick workpiece24, a user first places the workpiece24on upper surface52of lower portion40against clamping surface92of backstop42. The user than uses handle142in a non-clamping position to move lever140of actuator assembly30downward, and thereby move clamp and drill guide assembly32downward along track114of upright assembly28until clamping face260of drill guide block174is placed in contact with workpiece24. In such position, drill guide block174of clamp and drill guide assembly32is at the correct height to drill a pocket hole in the ½ inch thick workpiece24. In this illustrative example, the user then clamps the workpiece24in place and locks clamp and drill guide assembly32in position along track114by rotating handle142of lever140of actuator assembly30rearward and downward from the non-clamping position to a clamping position. As upper end146of lever140is rotated rearward and downward, lower end148is rotated forward and upward, thereby causing link236to increase the separation between clamp assembly172and carrier170of clamp and drill guide assembly32. As a result, carrier170is moved rearward, thereby causing ratchet mechanism188of carrier170to engage ratchet strips124of upright assembly28and lock clamp and drill guide assembly32in position along track114. At the same time, drill guide block174is pressed forward, thereby clamping workpiece24between clamping face260of drill guide block174and clamping surface92of backstop42.

In one or more arrangements, link236and actuator assembly30operated as an over-center latch to lock clamp and drill guide assembly32in a clamped position. For example, as previously noted, as upper end146of lever140is rotated rearward and downward, lower end148is rotated forward and upward, thereby causing link236to increase the separation between clamp assembly172and carrier170of clamp and drill guide assembly32. Link236continues to increase the separation until link236is positioned in line with lower end138of lever140. In one or more arrangements, actuator assembly30permits a user to further rotate upper end146of lever140a bit further rearward and downward to a point at which link236slightly decreases separation between clamp assembly172and carrier170. In this position, compressive forces placed on link236by the clamping hold actuator assembly30, link236, and other components of clamp and drill guide assembly32in place, thereby locking workpiece24in a clamped position for drilling of a pocket hole.

When drilling of a pocket hole is completed, the workpiece24may be unclamped by simply using handle142to rotate upper end146of lever140upward and forward, thereby rotating lower end148of lever140out of the over-center lock position and downward and rearward, and thereby reducing separation between clamp assembly172and carrier170of clamp and drill guide assembly32. As the separation between clamp assembly172and carrier170is reduced carrier170is moved forward by bias member186of carrier170until ratchet mechanism188of carrier170disengages from ratchet strips124of upright assembly28. Once disengaged, clamp and drill guide assembly32can move upward along track114.

In one or more arrangements, system10includes a bias assembly290. Bias assembly290may be formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to move lever140of upright assembly28and clamp and drill guide assembly32to a fully raised position in absence of an opposing force.

In one or more arrangements, bias assembly290includes a first spring292configured to rotate upper end146of lever140of actuator assembly30upward and forward to a non-clamping position in absence of an opposing force. In the arrangement shown, as one example, spring292is an extension spring operably connected to clamp assembly172and carrier170of clamp and drill guide assembly32. In this example arrangement, spring292is configured to apply a bias force to pull clamp assembly172and carrier170toward one another. When lever140of actuator assembly30is released from an over-center clamped position by a user, spring292pulls clamp assembly172and carrier170toward one another, which causes upper end146of lever140of actuator assembly30to be rotated upward and forward to the non-clamping position.

In one or more arrangements, bias assembly290includes a second spring294configured to move clamp and drill guide assembly32upward along track114to the fully raised position in absence of an opposing force. In the arrangement shown, as one example, spring294is a compression spring operably connected between base26and clamp and drill guide assembly32. In this example arrangement, in absence of an opposing force, spring294is configured to push clamp and drill guide assembly32upward along track114to the fully raised position.

However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in some various arrangements, bias members186may be implemented using various methods and/or means including but not limited to, for example, springs (e.g., compression springs, leaf springs and/or other flat springs, torsion springs, extension springs, air springs, and/or other types of springs), compressible materials, and/or any other method and/or means of biasing.

In one or more arrangements, clamp and drill guide assembly32includes one or more passageways to facilitate removal of wood chips, dust, and debris from drill guide block174that are generated when drilling of pocket holes. In the arrangement shown, as one example, main body222and side covers276of clamp assembly172clamp and drill guide assembly32include an opening284that extends through clamp and drill guide assembly32(e.g., thorough clamp assembly172and/or through drill guide block174) from side-to-side. That is, in the arrangement shown, as one example, opening284generally square or rectangular in shape when viewed from the side and extends in approximately a consistent and continuous manner through drill guide assembly from side-to-side. However, any other size, shape or configuration of opening284is hereby contemplated for use.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, a passageway286extends from front224of main body220of clamp assembly172to opening284. In the arrangement shown, the forward end of passageway286connects to a passageway288(not shown) of bores264of drill guide block174. When drilling of pocket holes, resulting wood chips, dust, and debris is transported from bores264through passageway288, through passageway286, and out through opening284to exit system10. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in some arrangements, may utilize various alternative and/or additional methods and/or means for removal of wood chips, dust, and debris.

In one or more arrangements, system10includes a vacuum attachment310to facilitate removal of woodchips, dust, and debris. Vacuum attachment310may be formed of any size, shape, and design and is configured to be attached to and removed from clamp and drill guide assembly32and facilitates the removal of woodchips, dust and debris generated during drilling from the drill guide assembly32and drill guide block174.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, vacuum attachment310includes an end wall312that connects at its upper and lower ends to upper and lower walls314. End wall324also connects at its forward and rearward ends to forward and rearward walls316. In the arrangement shown, as one example, end wall312is generally square or rectangular in shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example, upper and lower walls314extend in approximate parallel spaced relation to one another, and upper and lower walls314extend in approximate perpendicular alignment to end wall312. In the arrangement shown, as one example, forward and rearward walls316extend in approximate parallel spaced relation to one another, and forward and rearward walls316extend in approximate perpendicular alignment to end wall312. In the arrangement shown, as one example, upper and lower walls314extend in approximate perpendicular alignment to forward and rearward walls316. In this way, the combination of end wall312, upper and lower walls314and forward and rearward walls316form a generally square or rectangular shaped member that is configured to fit within opening284of clamp and drill guide assembly32.

The end of upper and lower walls314and forward and rearward walls316opposite end wall312is connected to a neck section318that is connected to a collar section320. Neck section318extends in a direction away from end wall312and smoothly converts the generally square or rectangular configuration of upper and lower walls314and forward and rearward walls316to the generally cylindrical shape of collar section320. Collar section320is a generally elongated cylindrical shaped member that is configured to receive the end of a conventional vacuum. In this way, vacuum attachment310forms a generally hollow member.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, one of or both of forward and rearward walls316include a plurality of openings322therein that enable the entry of woodchips, dust and debris into the hollow interior of vacuum attachment310which are then removed under vacuum by a vacuum attached to collar section320. In an alternative arrangement, one of or both of forward and rearward walls316are partially or wholly open thereby allowing unrestricted entry of woodchips, dust and debris into the hollow interior of vacuum attachment310.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the end of vacuum attachment310having end wall312is configured to be inserted into the opening284in either of the sides232of clamp assembly172of clamp and drill guide assembly32. That is, vacuum attachment310and clamp and drill guide assembly32is ambidextrous. Once vacuum attachment310is fully inserted into opening284, the end wall312covers opening284on the side232of clamp assembly172that is opposite the side232of insertion of the vacuum attachment310. Once vacuum attachment310is fully inserted into opening284, vacuum attachment310is in position to receive woodchips, dust and debris generated during drilling of pocket holes.

That is, during drilling of pocket holes, a drill bit is inserted within the bore264of at least one drill guide262of drill guide block174. As the pocket hole is being drilled, woodchips, dust and debris are generated. The woodchips, dust and debris generated during drilling passes from bore264, through passageway288in drill guide block174, through passageway286in clamp and drill guide assembly32and through the forward wall316of vacuum attachment310. The woodchips, dust and debris then travel through neck section318, through collar section320and out of vacuum attachment310under vacuum by an attached vacuum. In this way, a clean, effective, convenient way of removing woodchips, dust and debris from clamp and drill guide assembly32.

Notably, as the clamp and drill guide assembly32and drill guide block174travel along the angled upright assembly28between a lowered position and a raised position, vacuum attachment310travels with the clamp and drill guide assembly32and drill guide block174.

Some embodiments may utilize other sizes, shapes and/or designs to implement the vacuum attachment310. In one or more embodiments, instead of inserting vacuum attachment310into opening284, vacuum attachment310is not inserted into opening284. In one or more arrangements, vacuum attachment310attaches to the exterior of clamp and drill guide assembly32and covers one of the openings284while the other opening284may be covered, the other opening284may be left open, or the other opening284may not be present and instead only a single opening284is present.

In one or more arrangements, some or all of the surfaces of system10that engage workpiece24are partially or wholly covered by a compressible material that has a high coefficient of friction or a non-compressible material that has a high coefficient of friction. This material with a high coefficient of friction is referred to herein as a grippy material328(not shown) and helps to hold workpiece24in place within system10as well as reduces the amount of clamping pressure required to adequately hold workpiece24in place. This is because grippy material328has a high coefficient of friction making it less likely that workpiece24will slide or shift after being clamped and during the drilling process.

In one or more arrangements, grippy material328with a high coefficient of friction covers some or the entire upward facing upper surface52of lower portion40of base26, the rearward facing clamping surface92of backstop42of base26and/or the clamping face260of drill guide block174. The entirety of these surfaces may be covered by a grippy material328or alternatively only a portion of these surfaces may be covered by a grippy material328. The grippy material328may be added on top of these surfaces by gluing, adhering, spraying, sticking or otherwise by adding the grippy material328by any other manner, method or means. Alternatively, the grippy material328may be formed into these surfaces during manufacturing such as through dual durometer molding or otherwise by adding the grippy material328by any other manner, method or means.

In this way the system10is used to form pocket hole and all of the objectives of the disclosure are met. That is, the self-adjusting pocket hole jig system presented herein: improves upon the state of the art; is easy to use; is efficient; can be used with any type of workpiece; is cost effective; forms accurate pocket holes; is safe to use; has a durable design; has a long useful life; provides additional functionality for pocket hole jigs and pocket hole joinery; has a wide variety of uses; has a wide variety of applications; provides cost savings to a user; is relatively inexpensive; provides value; prevents or reduces relative movement between the pocket hole jig and the workpiece; reduces the amount of clamping pressure required to adequately clamp a pocket hole jig to a workpiece; facilitates the formation of aesthetically pleasing finished products; provides a clamping with movement of the handle in a single plane; facilitates easier clamping; facilitates raising and lowering of the drill guide assembly with movement of the handle in a single plane; facilitates easy release of the clamping mechanism; facilitates easy return of the clamping mechanism to a non-clamping position; facilitates easy adjustment of the clamping pressure; facilitates stable placement when used horizontally; facilitates stable placement when used vertically; facilitates easy removal of chips and debris during use; is comfortable to use; is more stable than other pocket hole jigs; facilitates automatic return of the clamping assembly to a non-clamping position; facilitates spring loaded return of the clamping assembly to a non-clamping position; improves the ergonomics of use; easily adjusts to workpieces of various thickness; adjusts the drill guide assembly to the optimum position for each workpiece; consistently applies the same clamping pressure regardless of workpiece thickness, improves the intuitiveness of drilling pocket hole jigs; improves the usability of pocket hole jigs; reduces set-up time; provides a single touch point for clamping and adjusting the position of the drill guide assembly; provides convenient woodchip, dust and debris removal; provides easy removal and replacement of drill guide blocks, among countless other features and benefits.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that other arrangements calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that this disclosure be limited only by the following claims, and the full scope of equivalents thereof. To be clear, the term “operatively”, as used in the claims, such as when a claim states “operably connected” or “connected in an operable manner” or similar language is intended to mean connected by any manner, method or means, including directly connected, indirectly connected, connected by intervening or intermediary parts, pieces or components, connected as separate components, connected as a single component, or connected in any manner that facilitates operation. In this way, the term “operatively” is intended to be broadly interpreted as connected in any way and does not require direct connection but may include a direct connection and may include being formed of a single member or formed of a plurality of members that are connected to one another. A direct connection between two parts or components is only required when a claim states “directly connected” “directly engaged” “connected directly to” or similar language.