Abstract:
A dust collection system for a circular saw having a saw housing and a motor configured to rotationally drive a saw blade includes a dust collecting member and a guide mechanism. The dust collecting member includes a body having a first end in which a dust collection opening is defined and a second end operably connectable to an airflow generation device. The guide mechanism is configured to support the dust collecting member on the saw housing such that the dust collection opening remains adjacent to an outer edge of the saw blade in response to one of the dust collecting member and the guide mechanism contacting the workpiece to move the dust collecting member.

Description:
CLAIM OF PRIORITY 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/787,323 entitled “Dust Collection System for a Circular Saw” by Gantke et al., filed Mar. 15, 2013, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This disclosure relates generally to power tools, and, more particularly, to dust collection for power tools. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Circular saws are a type of power tool used for cutting and shaping a workpiece, such as, hardwood, manufactured wood products, construction lumber, and other materials. The typical circular saw includes a circular blade, which generates dust and debris as the rotating blade is moved through the workpiece during a cut. Generally, the dust and debris interferes with the cutting task by obstructing the user&#39;s view of the workpiece and diffusing into the surrounding air space. Additionally, the dust and debris contaminates the area near where the cutting operation is performed, necessitating extensive clean up and potentially causing issues with other equipment nearby. Accordingly, it is desirable to collect the dust generated by the circular saw with a dust collection system. 
     Dust collection systems for use with a circular saw include a source of vacuum that is fluidly connected to the circular saw with a vacuum line. In particular, known circular saws include a dust channel having an input port and an output port. The input port is positioned to receive the dust and debris as it is generated by the saw blade. The output port is fluidly connected to the vacuum line. When the source of vacuum is activated, the dust and debris generated by the circular saw blade cutting the workpiece is drawn into the input port, through the dust channel, out the output port, and through the vacuum line where it is collected in a bin for disposal or repurposing. 
     Typically, dust channels are positioned behind the saw blade in the blade guard. The dust channel is not movable, and remains in the same position regardless of the position of the workpiece. Additionally, conventional dust channels cannot compensate for workpieces of differing sizes and shapes. Consequently, the dust channel may be a substantial distance from the saw blade and workpiece as the saw blade cuts the workpiece. The dust and debris generated by the cutting task scatters widely over small distances and, therefore, the fixed dust channel is only able to collect a portion of the dust and debris. It would thus be desirable to provide an improved dust collection system to collect a larger portion of the dust and debris generated during a cutting task. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one embodiment a dust collection system for a circular saw having a saw housing and a motor configured to rotationally drive a saw blade comprises a dust collecting member and a guide mechanism. The dust collecting member includes a body having a first end in which a dust collection opening is defined and a second end operably connectable to an airflow generation device. The guide mechanism is configured to support the dust collecting member on the saw housing such that the dust collection opening remains adjacent to an outer edge of the saw blade in response to one of the dust collecting member and the guide mechanism contacting the workpiece to move the dust collecting member. 
     In another embodiment, a method of operating a dust collection system for a circular saw comprises moving a saw blade of a circular saw such that a dust collecting system of the circular saw engages a workpiece, guiding a dust collecting member of the dust collecting system such that as the dust collecting system engages the workpiece during a cutting operation a dust collecting opening of the dust collecting member remains proximate to an intersection of the saw blade and the workpiece, and generating an airflow through the dust collecting opening with an airflow generating device to move dust produced during the cutting operation. 
     In yet another embodiment, a circular saw comprises a saw housing, a saw blade rotatably coupled to the saw housing, a motor supported in the saw housing and configured to rotationally drive the saw blade, an airflow generation device supported by the saw housing, and a dust collecting member including a body having a first end in which a dust collection opening is defined and a second end operably connected to the airflow generation device. The circular saw further comprises a guide mechanism configured to support the dust collecting member on the saw housing such that the dust collection opening remains adjacent to an outer edge of the saw blade in response to one of the dust collecting member and the guide mechanism contacting the workpiece to move the dust collecting member. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of a miter saw having a dust collection system with a pivoting dust chute. 
         FIG. 2  is a side perspective view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a bottom perspective view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4A  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  in a raised position. 
         FIG. 4B  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  with a dust chute beginning to contact a workpiece. 
         FIG. 4C  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  with the dust chute pivoting further about the virtual pivot point. 
         FIG. 4D  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  with the dust chute pivoting about a pivot pin and the virtual pivot point. 
         FIG. 4E  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  with the dust chute pivoted to contact the top of the workpiece. 
         FIG. 4F  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  with the dust chute reaching the bottom of the workpiece. 
         FIG. 5A  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  with the dust chute pivoting and moving upwardly along the rear of the workpiece. 
         FIG. 5B  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  with the dust chute pivoting and moving upwardly further along the rear of the workpiece. 
         FIG. 5C  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  with the dust chute reaching the top rear of the workpiece. 
         FIG. 5D  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  with the dust chute sliding in front of the workpiece. 
         FIG. 5E  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 1  with the dust chute returning to the starting position in front of the workpiece. 
         FIG. 6  is a side perspective view of a miter saw having another dust collection system. 
         FIG. 7A  is a side perspective view of a miter saw having yet another dust collection system. 
         FIG. 7B  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 7A . 
         FIG. 8  is a side perspective view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 9A  is a side perspective view of a miter saw having another embodiment of a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 9B  is a side detail view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 9C  is a perspective schematic view of the dust cleaner of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 10A  is a front perspective view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 10B  is a side view of the miter saw and dust collection system of  FIG. 10A . 
         FIG. 11A  is a side view of a dust collection chute for a dust collection system for a miter saw on the top of a workpiece. 
         FIG. 11B  is a side view of the dust collection chute of  FIG. 11A  contacting the rear of the workpiece. 
         FIG. 11C  is a side view of the dust collection chute of  FIG. 11A  on top of a thick workpiece. 
         FIG. 11D  is a side view of the dust collection chute of  FIG. 11A  on top of a thin workpiece. 
         FIG. 12A  is a side view of a dust collection chute for a dust collection system for a miter saw on the top of a workpiece. 
         FIG. 12B  is a side view of the dust collection chute of  FIG. 12A  contacting the rear of the workpiece. 
         FIG. 12C  is a side view of the dust collection chute of  FIG. 12A  on top of a thick workpiece. 
         FIG. 12D  is a side view of the dust collection chute of  FIG. 12A  on top of a thin workpiece. 
         FIG. 13A  is a side view of a dust collection chute for a dust collection system for a miter saw on the top of a workpiece. 
         FIG. 13B  is a side view of the dust collection chute of  FIG. 13A  contacting the rear of the workpiece. 
         FIG. 13C  is a side view of the dust collection chute of  FIG. 13A  on top of a thick workpiece. 
         FIG. 13D  is a side view of the dust collection chute of  FIG. 13A  on top of a thin workpiece. 
         FIG. 14A  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 14B  is a front schematic view of the dust control system of  FIG. 14A . 
         FIG. 14C  is a top schematic view of the dust control system of  FIG. 14A . 
         FIG. 15  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 16  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 17A  is a top schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 17B  is a top schematic view of the dust control system of  FIG. 17A . 
         FIG. 18  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 19  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 20A  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 20B  is a rear schematic view of the dust control system of  FIG. 20A . 
         FIG. 21  is a top schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 22  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 23  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 24  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 25A  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 25B  is a front schematic view of the dust control system of  FIG. 25A . 
         FIG. 26A  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 26B  is a rear schematic view of the dust control system of  FIG. 26A . 
         FIG. 27  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 28A  is a front schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 28B  is a side detail schematic view of the dust control system of  FIG. 28A . 
         FIG. 29  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 30  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 31A  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 31B  is a top schematic view of the dust control system of  FIG. 31A . 
         FIG. 32  is a front schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 33  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 34  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 35  is a side schematic view of a dust control system for a circular saw. 
         FIG. 36  is a side schematic view of a suction hose for use with a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 37  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a telescoping suction hose for use with a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 38  is a side schematic view of a suction hose having a rubber gaiter. 
         FIG. 39  is a perspective schematic view of a canal covered with brushes. 
         FIG. 40  is a perspective schematic view of a drag chain dust transport for use with a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 41  is a side schematic view of a saw having a stand with a channel. 
         FIG. 42  is a schematic view of a bowl chain dust transport for use with a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 43A  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a self-contracting suction hose for use with a dust control system of a circular saw in a contracted state. 
         FIG. 43B  is a cross-sectional schematic view of the self-contracting suction hose of  FIG. 43A  in an expanded state 
         FIG. 44  is a perspective schematic view of a telescoping canal for use with a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 45  is a side schematic view of a textile bag for use in a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 46  is a side schematic view of a paper bag for use in a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 47  is a perspective schematic view of a filter cartridge for use in a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 48  is a side schematic view of a water separation system for use in a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 49  is a perspective schematic view of a filter cartridge for use in a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 50  is a perspective schematic view of a cyclone separator for use in a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 51  is a side schematic view of a membrane filter for use in a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 52  is a cross-sectional schematic view of a cyclone and filter separation system for use in a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 53  is a cross-sectional schematic view of an electrostatic filter for use in a dust control system of a circular saw. 
         FIG. 54  is a side schematic view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 55  is a top schematic view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 56  is a side schematic view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 57  is a side schematic view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 58  is a side schematic view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 59  is a side schematic view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 60  is a front schematic view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 61  is a side schematic view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 62  is a side schematic view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 63  is a side schematic view of a miter saw having a dust collection system. 
         FIG. 64  is a perspective schematic view of a dust collection system for a circular saw. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the embodiments described herein, reference is now made to the drawings and descriptions in the following written specification. No limitation to the scope of the subject matter is intended by the references. This disclosure also includes any alterations and modifications to the illustrated embodiments and includes further applications of the principles of the described embodiments as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which this document pertains. 
       FIGS. 1-3  depict a miter saw  60  having a dust collection system  100 . The miter saw  60  includes a saw frame  70 , a saw blade  80 , and a saw support  90 . The frame  70  includes a saw slide  72 , a saw pivot  74 , and a handle  76 . The saw slide  72  and saw pivot  74  are operatively connected to the handle  76  such that movement of the handle  76  pivots the frame  70  about the saw pivot  74  and moves the frame along the saw slide  72 . The frame  70  is operatively connected to the saw blade  80  to enable movement of the frame  70  to move the saw blade  80 . Pivoting the saw frame  70  about the saw pivot  74  raises and lowers the saw blade  80 , while sliding the frame  70  along the saw slide  72  moves the saw blade  80  forward and backward. 
     The saw blade  80  includes a fixed guard  82 , a pivoting front guard  84 , and a saw drive axle  86 . The fixed guard  82  is fixedly attached to the saw frame  70  and covers an upper portion of the saw blade  80  to protect the user from being injured by the rotating saw blade  80  and to prevent foreign objects from interfering with the saw blade  80 . The pivoting front guard  84  is pivotably connected to the frame  70  and the blade  80  to pivot as the saw blade  80  is raised and lowered, enclosing a front portion of the saw blade  80  when the saw blade  80  is in the lowered working position. The saw drive axle  86  passes through a central opening in the saw blade  80  and connects the saw blade  80  to a motor (not shown) housed within the frame  70  such that actuation of the motor turns the saw blade  80 . 
     The saw support  90  is connected to the frame  70  to support the frame  70  and saw blade  80 . The saw support  90  has a workpiece platform  92 , a workpiece support  94 , a cutting track  96  ( FIG. 2 ), and a base  98 . The workpiece platform  92  is configured for a workpiece  64  ( FIG. 4A ) to rest on, while the workpiece support  94  retains the workpiece  64  in a fixed horizontal position as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . The cutting track  96  extends under the workpiece platform  92  and is configured to accommodate the saw blade  80  to enable the saw blade  80  to extend beneath the workpiece  64  to cut the entire thickness of the workpiece  64 . 
     The dust collection system  100  includes a dust chute  120  and a cam system  140 . The dust chute  120  has a vacuum connector  124 , a pivot projection  128 , a curved edge  132 , a dust collection opening  136 , and a rounded front end  138 . The vacuum connector  124  is configured to accommodate a hose for a vacuum to enable the vacuum to generate a negative pressure within the dust chute  120 . While the system is described herein with reference to pulling dust and debris into the dust collecting member, the reader should appreciate that the system disclosed herein is also suitable to expel air from the dust collecting member to disperse dust and debris generated during a cutting operation by connecting the dust collecting member to a positive pressure source. Reference herein to “dust collecting” and “dust collection” is intended to refer to either pulling dust into the system or dispersing dust by expelling dust from the system. 
     The pivot projection  128  extends from a middle region of the dust chute  120  to interface with the cam system  140 . The curved edge  132  extends from a side of the dust chute  120  toward the saw base  90  to interface with the workpiece  64 . The dust collection opening  136  is an arcuate opening that is wider than the width of the saw blade  80  and has a radius that is similar to an outer radius of the saw blade  80  to enable the dust collection opening  136  to accommodate a portion of the outer edge  81  of the saw blade  80 . 
     The cam system  140  includes a fixed plate  142 , a sliding member  144 , a movable guard  148 , a cam track  152 , a spring  156 , and a stop pin  160 . The sliding member  144  includes a pivot pin  145  that pivotably connects the dust chute  120  to the sliding member  144  and a flange  146  extending toward the rear of the miter saw  60  to fixedly connect the sliding member  144  to the movable guard  148 . The sliding member  144  is configured to engage the cam track  152  such that the sliding member  144  and movable guard  148  slide along the cam track  152 . The cam track  152  is fixed to the saw frame  70  by the fixed plate  142  and has an arc shape that is centered about the saw drive axle  86  at the center of the saw blade  80  to define a virtual pivot point about the saw drive axle  86 . The spring  156  is connected at one end to the pivot projection  124  of the dust chute  120  and at the other end to the upper end of the sliding member  144 . The stop pin  160  is fixedly connected to the frame  70  of the saw  60  via the fixed plate  142 , and is configured to prevent movement of the pivot projection  128  below the stop pin  160 . 
     In operation, the dust collection system  100  progressively moves from the position of  FIG. 4A  to the position shown in  FIG. 4F  as the miter saw  60  is used to cut the workpiece  64 .  FIG. 4A  depicts the miter saw  60  with the blade  80  in a raised position. The sliding member  144  is positioned at the upper end of the cam track  152 . The dust chute  124  is also in a raised position by virtue of the pivot pin  145  connecting the dust chute  120  to the lower end of the sliding member  144  and the spring  156  connecting the upper end of the sliding member  144  to the pivot projection  128 . The blade guard  84  of the saw blade  80  partially encompasses the rounded end  138  of the dust chute  120  to cover the saw blade  80  and prevent contact with the blade  80 . A workpiece  64  is positioned on the workpiece platform  92 , abutting the workpiece support  94  to hold the workpiece  64  securely in place during the cutting operation. 
     The user then uses the handle  76  of the miter saw  60  to pivot the saw blade  80  about the saw pivot  74 , moving the saw blade downwardly, in direction  170 . As the saw blade  80  pivots downwardly, the front blade guard  84  opens to expose the lower portion of the saw blade  80 . Additionally, the sliding member  144  slides to the bottom of the cam track  152  under gravity, moving the dust chute  120  about the virtual pivot point at the saw drive axle  86  to the lowered position shown in  FIG. 4B . In the lowered position, the pivot projection  128  engages the stop pin  160  to pivot the dust chute  120  about the pivot pin  145  such that the curved edge  132  rests against the saw base  98 . 
     The user then pulls the handle  76  to move the miter saw  60  in direction  174 , toward the workpiece  64 . As the miter saw  60  moves in direction  174 , the curved edge  132  engages a corner of the workpiece  64 , as shown in  FIG. 4B . In response, the workpiece  64  exerts a reaction force on the dust chute  120  in direction  178 . Further movement of the saw  60  in direction  174  raises the dust chute off  120  the base  98  as shown in  FIG. 4C . Since the pivot projection  128  remains in contact with the stop pin  160 , the reaction force from the workpiece  64  is converted into a pivoting motion of the dust chute  120 , sliding member  144 , and movable guard  148  about the virtual pivot point at the saw drive axle  86  as the sliding member  144  slides along the cam track  152  in direction  182 . As the sliding member  144  continues to slide along the cam track  152 , the spring attached at the upper end of the cam track  152  pulls the end of the pivot projection  128  off the stop pin  160 , as shown in  FIG. 4D , pivoting the dust chute  120  about the pivot pin  145 . The dust chute  120  pivots until the curved edge  132  pulls off the workpiece  64  and the rounded end  138  engages the top of the work piece  64  as the saw blade  80  begins to contact the workpiece  64 , as shown in  FIG. 4E . The dust collecting opening  136  remains at a position partially surrounding the outer edge  81  of the blade  80  adjacent the workpiece  64  to enable the negative pressure generated in the dust collecting opening  136  by the attached vacuum to draw the debris and dust produced during the cutting of the workpiece  64  into the dust chute  120 . 
     The dust chute  120  continues to slide along the top of the workpiece  64  as the saw is moved in direction  174  and the saw blade  80  cuts through the workpiece  64 . As the dust chute  120  reaches the top rear corner of the workpiece  64 , the dust chute  120  begins sliding down the rear surface of the workpiece  64  under the force of gravity as the blade  80  continues to cut the workpiece  64 . The sliding member  144  pivots about the virtual pivot point  86  as the dust chute  120  simultaneously pivots about the pivot pin  145  to retain the dust chute  120  in contact with the rear surface of the workpiece. The constant contact of the dust chute  120  with the workpiece  64  prevents a gap from forming between the workpiece  64  and the dust chute  120 , enabling the dust chute  120  and the dust collecting opening  136  to remain adjacent to the intersection point of the outer edge  81  of the saw blade  80  and the workpiece  64  to collect the dust and debris produced during the cutting operation. The dust chute  120  moves downwardly in direction  184  to the position of  FIG. 4F  as the saw blade  80  finishes cutting the workpiece  64 , remaining in contact with the rear surface of the workpiece  64  until the cutting operation is complete. 
       FIGS. 5A-5E  illustrate the dust collecting system  100  disengaging from the workpiece  64  after the cutting operation is complete without catching on the workpiece  64 . Once the cutting operation is complete, the user moves the saw in direction  176 , as shown in  FIG. 5A . The workpiece  64  produces a reaction force in direction  174  on the rounded end  132  of the dust chute  120 . The dust chute  120  and sliding member  144  pivot in direction  182  about the virtual pivot point  86  while the pivot projection  128  remains engaged to the stop pin  160 , limiting the pivoting of the dust chute  120  about the pivot pin  145 . As the sliding member  144  and dust chute  120  continue to pivot in direction  182  about the virtual pivot point  86 , the dust chute  120  moves upwardly along the rear surface of the workpiece  64  and the dust chute  120  begins pivoting around the pivot pin  145 , as shown in  FIG. 5B . As the rounded end  138  of the dust chute  120  reaches the top of the workpiece  64 , the workpiece  64  no longer generates a reaction force on the dust chute  120  holding the pivot projection  128  on the stop pin  160 , and the spring  156  pulls the pivot projection  128  off the stop pin  160 , pivoting the dust chute  120  about the pivot pin  145  to the position shown in  FIG. 5C . Further movement of the saw in direction  176  slides the rounded edge  138  of the dust chute  120  on the top of the workpiece  64  until the rounded edge  138  reaches the front of the workpiece  64 , where gravity begins to pull the sliding member  144  downwardly about the virtual pivot point  86 , moving the dust chute  120  in direction  188 , as shown in  FIG. 5D . The dust collection system  100  then returns to the initial position, as shown in  FIG. 5E , as the dust chute  120  moves in direction  190 . 
     Another dust collection system  200  is shown in  FIG. 6 . The dust collection system  200  includes a dust chute  120 , configured similar to the dust chute  120  described above with reference to  FIGS. 1-5E  and including a pivot projection  128 , and a cam system  240 . The cam system  240  includes a carrier plate  244 , a mounting plate  248 , a rotary bearing  252 , which, in some embodiments, is a ball bearing, and a spring  156 . The rotary bearing  252  is centered about the center of the saw blade  80 , and fixedly mounted to the mounting plate  248 . The rotary bearing  252  is operatively connected to the carrier plate  244 , and is configured such that the carrier plate  244  is rotatable about the center of the rotary bearing  252 . 
     The embodiment of  FIG. 6  operates substantially the same as the embodiment of  FIGS. 1-5E  with the exception that the rotary bearing  252  replaces the virtual pivot point as the pivoting mechanism. The carrier plate  244  pivots about the center of the rotary bearing  252  to move the dust chute  120  upwardly as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . The spring  156  and the pivot projection  128  operate in the same manner as described above with reference to  FIGS. 1-5E  to retain the dust chute  120  in position to receive the dust and debris generated during a cutting operation. 
     The present disclosure contemplates a dust and debris collection system for use with a power tool in which the workpiece and tool translate relative to each other. In one aspect, the collection system includes a dust chute configured to pull dust and debris and a support system that allows the dust chute to travel over and beyond the workpiece during the relative translation of the workpiece and the power tool. 
     The dust collection systems disclosed herein also contemplate components for collecting the dust and debris in a container for easy disposal. In one embodiment, this is shown in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , which illustrates a dust collection system  300  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  300  includes a dust chute  320 , a guide member  340 , an exhaust blower  360 , and a collection bag  380 . The dust chute  320  partially surrounds the saw blade  80  to collect dust and debris generated as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . The guide member  340  includes a guide slot  344 , a guide pin  348 , and a pivot pin  352 . The guide pin  348  is positioned within the guide slot  344  and is operatively connected to the dust chute  320 . The guide pin  348  slides within the guide slot  344  to move the dust chute  320  in direction  388 . The guide member  340  pivots about the pivot pin  352  to enable the dust chute  320  to reach the base of the saw table, at which position the guide pin is at the forward end of the slot  344 . The pivoting of the guide member  340  and the sliding of the guide pin  348  enable the dust chute  320  to remain adjacent to the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 , such that the dust chute  320  collects dust and debris produced during the cutting operation. 
     The exhaust blower  360  is configured with a motor (not shown) that generates a negative pressure within the dust chute  320  to enable the dust chute  320  to extract air from about the saw blade  80  and capture the dust and debris from the cutting operation. The exhaust blower  360  pushes the dust and debris into the collection bag  380  for subsequent removal and disposal of the dust and debris. 
       FIG. 8  depicts another dust collection system  310  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  310  is substantially the same as the dust collection system  300 , with the exception that dust collection system  310  does not include an exhaust blower. The saw blade  80  cuts through the workpiece  64 , ejecting air, dust, and debris tangentially to the saw blade  80 . The airflow generated by the spinning saw blade  80  is sufficient to push the dust and debris through the dust chute  320  into the collection bag  380  without the need for an exhaust blower to move the air through the dust chute  320  to the collection bag  380 . 
       FIGS. 9A-9C  illustrate another dust collection system  400  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  400  includes a dust chute  420 , a guide member  440 , a connecting hose  460 , and an exhauster  480 . The dust chute  420  partially surrounds the saw blade  80  to collect dust and debris generated as the saw blade  80  cuts a workpiece  64 . The dust chute  420  includes a hose  424  that, in one embodiment, is flexible to enable the dust chute  420  to be oriented in a variety of positions. The guide member  440  includes a guide slot  444  and a guide pin  448 . The guide pin  448  is positioned within the guide slot  444  and is operatively connected to the dust chute  420 . The guide pin  448  slides within the guide slot  444  to move the dust chute  420  in direction  488 . The guide member  440  pivots about the pivot pin  452  to enable the dust chute  420  to reach the base of the saw table, at which position the guide pin is at the forward end of the slot  444 . The pivoting of the guide member  440  and the sliding of the guide pin  448  enable the dust chute  420  to remain adjacent to the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 , such that the dust chute  420  collects dust and debris produced during the cutting operation. 
     The connecting hose  460  is adjustable to transport dust and debris from the dust chute  420  to the exhauster  480 . The exhauster  480  includes a debris collector  484  ( FIG. 9C ) and an exhaust fan  488 . The exhaust fan  488  generates a negative pressure in the debris collector  484  to pull air, dust, and debris from the cutting operation through the dust chute  420  and connecting hose  460 . In the embodiment of  FIGS. 9A-9C , the exhauster  480  is movable, and can be positioned by the user in any suitable location near the saw due to the adjustability of the connecting hose  460 . In one embodiment, the exhauster includes a magnet to enable the exhauster to be temporarily mounted to a magnetic surface near the saw. 
       FIGS. 10A and 10B  illustrate another dust collection system  510  for a circular saw system  500 . The circular saw system  500  includes a workpiece stand  504  that supports a workpiece  64  during a cutting operation. The dust collection system  510  includes a dust chute  520 , a guide member  540 , a connecting hose  560 , and a vacuum  580 . The dust chute  520  partially surrounds the saw blade  80  to collect dust and debris generated as the saw blade  80  cuts a workpiece  64 . The dust chute  520  includes a hose  524  that is flexible to enable the dust chute  520  to be oriented in a variety of positions. The guide member  540  includes a guide slot  544  and a guide pin  548 . The guide pin  548  is positioned within the guide slot  544  and is operatively connected to the dust chute  520 . The guide pin  548  slides within the guide slot  544  to move the dust chute  520  in direction  588 . The guide member  540  pivots about the pivot pin  552  to enable the dust chute  520  to reach the base of the saw table, at which position the guide pin is at the forward end of the slot  544 . The pivoting of the guide member  540  and the sliding of the guide pin  548  enable the dust chute  520  to remain adjacent to the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 , such that the dust chute  520  collects dust and debris produced during the cutting operation. 
     The connecting hose  560  fluidly connects the dust chute  520  to the vacuum  580  to transport the dust and debris collected by the dust chute  520  to the vacuum  580 . The connecting hose  560  is adjustable to enable the dust chute  520  to be moved with respect to the vacuum  580 . The vacuum  580  is configured to generate a negative pressure in the connecting hose  560  and the dust chute  520  to extract air through the dust chute  520  and collect the dust and debris generated during the cutting operation. The saw is mounted on the vacuum  580 , which serves to support the saw during cutting operations. The vacuum  580  includes wheels  584 , to enable the circular saw system  500  to be moved between cutting operations, and a collection bag (not shown) to collect the dust within the vacuum  580  for subsequent disposal. 
       FIGS. 11A-11F  illustrate a dust chute  620  having a flat end  624  for use with a dust collection system such as the dust collection system  100  described with reference to  FIGS. 1-5E . The dust chute  620  is positioned on top of the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece, as shown in  FIG. 11A . The dust chute  620  moves around the top rear corner of the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  is moved further into the workpiece  64 .  FIG. 11B  depicts the flat end  624  of the dust chute  620  sliding down the rear surface of the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  is nearly finished cutting the workpiece  64 , and the dust chute  624  moves to a position behind the workpiece  64  after the saw blade  80  has completed the cutting operation.  FIG. 11C  depicts the flat end  624  of the dust chute  620  against the top surface of a thick workpiece  65 , while  FIG. 11D  depicts the flat end  624  of the dust chute  620  against the top surface of a thin workpiece  66 . 
       FIGS. 12A-12D  illustrate a dust chute  640  having a curved end  644  with a flat lower surface for use with a dust collection system such as the dust collection system  100  described with reference to  FIGS. 1-5E . The flat lower surface of the curved end  644  of the dust chute  640  is positioned on top of the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece, as shown in  FIG. 12A , and is configured to slide along the top surface of the workpiece  64 . The curved portion of the curved end  644  is adapted to the outer circumference of the saw blade  80  to enable the curved end  644  to partially encompass a portion of the saw blade  80 . The dust chute  640  then moves around the top rear corner of the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  is moved further into the workpiece  64 .  FIG. 12B  depicts the curved end  644  of the dust chute  640  sliding down the rear surface of the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  is nearly finished cutting the workpiece  64 . The dust chute  640  is positioned behind the workpiece  64  after the saw blade  80  has completed the cutting operation.  FIG. 12C  depicts the curved end  644  of the dust chute  640  against the top surface of a thick workpiece  65 , while  FIG. 12D  depicts the curved end  644  of the dust chute  640  against the top surface of a thin workpiece  66 . 
       FIGS. 13A-13D  illustrate a dust chute  660  having a curved end  664  for use with a dust collection system such as the dust collection system  100  described with reference to  FIGS. 1-5E . The dust chute  660  is positioned on top of the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece, as shown in  FIG. 13A . The tip of the curved end  664  slides along the top surface of the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . The curved portion of the curved end  664  remains adjacent to the saw blade  80  and the workpiece  64  during the cutting operation to collect dust and debris produced as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . The dust chute  660  then moves around the top rear corner of the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  is moved further into the workpiece  64 .  FIG. 13B  depicts the curved end  664  of the dust chute  660  sliding down the rear surface of the workpiece  64  as the saw blade  80  is nearly finished cutting the workpiece  64 . Once the saw blade  80  has completed the cutting operation, the dust chute  660  moves to a position behind the workpiece  64 .  FIG. 13C  depicts the curved end  664  of the dust chute  660  against the top surface of a thick workpiece  65 , while  FIG. 13D  depicts the curved end  664  of the dust chute  660  against the top surface of a thin workpiece  66 . 
       FIGS. 14A-14C  illustrate another embodiment of a dust collection system  700  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  700  includes a dust chute  720  that has two extensions  724  and  728 , each of which extends around a side of a circular saw blade  80  to partially surround the circular saw blade  80  and collect dust generated as the saw blade  80  cuts a workpiece  64 . The dust collection system  700  is pivotable about the circular saw to enable the user to position the dust collection  700  at a desired position with respect to the workpiece  64  and saw blade  80 . 
       FIG. 15  depicts a dust collection cover  800  for a circular saw. The dust collection cover  800  has a front pivoting cover  824  and a rear pivoting cover  820 , each of which partially surrounds the saw blade  80  and includes a roller  826  and  822 , respectively. The rollers  822  and  826  are configured to roll along the surfaces of the workpiece  64  to urge the rear and front pivoting covers  820  and  824 , respectively, to pivot and remain close enough to the saw blade  80  to catch dust and debris generated during cutting of the workpiece  64 . 
       FIG. 16  illustrates a dust collection system  900  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  900  includes a first dust chute  920  and a second dust chute  940 . The first dust chute  920  is positioned behind the workpiece  64  in the direction of the saw travel such that the first dust chute  920  collects dust ejected behind the workpiece  74 . The second dust chute  940  is vertically adjustable and is configured to rest atop the workpiece  64  to collect dust ejected upwardly as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . 
       FIGS. 17A and 17B  illustrate a dust collection system  1000  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  1000  includes a flexible rubber gaiter  1020  positioned behind the workpiece  64 . The flexible gaiter  1020  is configured to expand to the position of  FIG. 17A  as the circular saw blade  80  spins to collect dust generated as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . When the circular saw is deactivated, the flexible gaiter  1020  retracts to the position of  FIG. 17B . 
       FIG. 18  illustrates another dust collection system  1100  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  1100  includes a hood  1120  that completely covers the miter saw  60 . The hood  1120  prevents dust from escaping and enables simplified collection of the dust after use of the miter saw. 
       FIG. 19  depicts another dust collection system  1200  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  1200  includes a pivotable dust chute  1220  that pivots about a pivot pin  1224 . The dust chute  1220  is configured to partially encapsulate the saw blade  80  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . The dust chute  1220  rests on the top surface of the workpiece  64  as the cutting operation is performed, and pivots against a stop  1228  when the cutting operation is completed. 
       FIGS. 20A and 20B  depict another dust collection system  1300  for a miter saw. The dust collection system  1300  includes a first band  1320  and a second band  1340 . In one embodiment, the bands  1320  and  1340  are made of an elastomeric material, though other materials are used in other embodiments. The elastic bands  1320  and  1340  are configured to slide in directions  1324  and  1344 , respectively, as the circular saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64  and pushes the bands  1320  and  1340  from their resting position on the top surface of the workpiece  64 . The bands  1320  and  1340  are configured to block dust and debris from spraying outwardly as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . 
       FIG. 21  depicts another dust collection system  1400  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  1400  includes a dust shield  1420  and a dust chute  1440 . The dust shield  1420  extends behind and partially beside the saw blade  80  to retain dust and debris from a cutting operation near the saw blade  80 . The dust chute  1440  is connected to a vacuum (not shown) that generates a negative pressure to extract the dust and debris from near the saw blade  80  through the dust chute  1440 . 
       FIG. 22  depicts another dust collection system  1500  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  1500  includes a dust chute  1520  that is configured to translate in direction  1524  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . The dust chute  1520  is configured to rest on a top surface of the workpiece  64  as the blade  80  cuts the workpiece to remain adjacent the blade  80  to collect the dust and debris generated during the cutting operation. 
       FIG. 23  depicts a dust collection system  1600  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  1600  includes a dust chute  1620  that is configured to pivot about the center of the saw blade  80  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . The dust chute  1620  rests on the top surface of the workpiece  64  as the blade  80  cuts the workpiece to remain adjacent the blade  80  and collect the dust and debris generated during the cutting operation. The dust chute  1620  is connected to an adjustable hose  1640  to deliver the dust and debris collected by the dust chute  1620  to a collection area (not shown). In some embodiments, the adjustable hose is connected to a vacuum source to generate a suction to move the dust and debris toward the collection area. 
       FIG. 24  depicts a dust collection system  1700  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  1700  includes a dust chute  1720  that is configured to pivot about the center of the saw blade  80  as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . The dust chute  1720  rests on the top surface of the workpiece  64  as the blade  80  cuts the workpiece to remain adjacent the blade  80  and collect the dust and debris generated during the cutting operation. The dust chute  1720  is connected to an adjustable hose  1740  to deliver the dust and debris collected by the dust chute  1720  to a storage location. An air collector  1760  collects air expelled by a motor fan  1750  that is configured to cool a motor (not shown) that operates the saw blade  80 . The air collector  1760  channels the air into the dust chute  1720  and connecting hose  1740  to push the dust and debris through the dust chute  1720  and connecting hose  1740 . 
       FIGS. 25A and 25B  depict a dust collection system  1800  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  1800  includes a dust chute  1820  that is configured to be manually positioned by an operator on the workpiece  64 . The dust chute  1820  collects dust and debris ejected as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece  64 . 
       FIGS. 26A and 26B  depict a dust collection system  1900  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  1900  includes two brushes  1920  and  1940  that are configured to spin. The brushes  1920  and  1940  are positioned on opposite sides of the saw blade  80  to direct dust and debris generated as the saw blade cuts the workpiece  64  behind the saw for collection. The brushes  1920  and  1940  are further configured such that the brushes  1920  and  1940  do not interfere with the saw blade  80  as the blade spins. 
       FIG. 27  depicts a dust collection system  2000  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  2000  includes a water sprayer  2020 , a dust shield  2040 , and a drain  2060 . The dust shield  2040  blocks dust and debris from being ejected upwardly as the saw blade  80  cuts a workpiece. The water sprayer  2020  sprays a diffuse shower of water on the saw blade  80  to knock dust and debris particles out of the air and into the drain  2060 . The drain  2060  collects the water, dust, and debris and delivers it to a collection area for subsequent disposal. 
       FIGS. 28A and 28B  depict a dust collection system  2100  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  2100  includes two curtains  2120  and  2124  positioned on opposite sides of the saw blade  80 . The dust collection system  2100  further includes two brushes  2140  and  2144  mounted to the base of the saw behind the workpiece  64  on opposite sides of the saw blade  80 . The airflow generated by the spinning of the circular saw  80  during cutting is channeled between the brushes  2140  and  2144  and the curtains  2120  and  2124  to direct dust and debris generated as the saw blade cuts the workpiece  64  to a collection area for disposal. 
       FIG. 29  depicts a dust collection system  2200  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  2200  includes a dust hood  2220 , a suction channel  2224 , and a saw guard  2240 . The saw guard  2240  partially surrounds the saw blade  80  to prevent user contact with the blade  80 , and includes a handle  2244  to enable the user to pivot and slide the saw blade  80 . The dust hood  2220  is attached to the saw guard  2240  and is configured to move with the saw guard  2240 . The suction channel  2224  is attached to the dust hood  2220  and is connected to a vacuum to enable the suction channel  2224  to generate a negative pressure in the dust hood  2220 . The negative pressure in the dust hood  2220  pulls dust and debris generated during cutting of the workpiece  64  into the suction channel  2224  and to a collection area for subsequent disposal. 
       FIG. 30  depicts another dust collection system  2300  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  2300  includes a dust chute  1620  and an adjustable hose  1640  that are configured substantially the same as the dust chute and adjustable hose described above with reference to  FIG. 23 . The dust collection system further includes a hood  2320  having a ventilation fan  2340 . The hood  2320  prevents egress of dust particles that are not captured by the dust chute  1620  from leaving the immediate area of the circular saw. The ventilation fan  2340  generates a suction that pulls any dust particles remaining within the hood  2320  into a collection area for disposal. 
       FIGS. 31A and 31B  depict a dust collection system  2400  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  2400  includes a dust chute  2420  positioned behind the workpiece  64  and two dust collection arms  2424  and  2428  that extend around the saw blade  80  to retain dust particles within the area of the dust chute  2420 . In some embodiments, the dust chute is connected to a vacuum source to generate a suction that pulls dust and debris particles into the dust chute for disposal. 
       FIG. 32  illustrates a dust collection system  2500  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  2500  includes two covers  2520  and  2540 , each connected to a saw guard  2560  by a hinge  2524  and  2544 , respectively. The covers  2520  and  2540  prevent dust and debris particles from being directed out the sides of the circular saw blade  80  as the saw blade  80  cuts workpiece  64 . The hinges  2524  and  2544  enable the covers  2520  and  2540  to move as the saw blade  80  is moved to cut the workpiece  64  such that the covers  2520  and  2540  do not interfere with the workpiece  64  or the blade  80  during the cutting operation. 
       FIG. 33  illustrates a dust collection system  2600  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  2600  includes a lower collector  2620 , a rear collector  2624 , and a suction tube  2640 . The lower collector  2620  is positioned beneath the saw blade  80  and workpiece  64  to collect dust and debris ejected downwardly by the cutting operation. The rear collector  2624  is positioned behind the workpiece to collect dust and debris ejected behind the workpiece. The suction tube  2640  is connected to a vacuum source to generate a negative air pressure in the suction tube  2640  that pulls the dust and debris collected in the lower and rear collectors  2620  and  2624  through the suction tube  2640  and to a collection area for storage and disposal. 
       FIG. 34  illustrates a dust collection system  2700  for a circular saw. The dust collection system  2700  includes a fixed hood  2720  and a collection tube  2740 . The fixed hood extends behind and above the workpiece  64  to prevent egress of dust and debris ejected as the saw blade  80  cuts the workpiece. The fixed hood  2720  directs the dust and debris into the collection tube  2740  which, in some embodiments, is connected to a vacuum source to pull the dust and debris away from the circular saw. 
       FIG. 35  depicts a dust collection system  2800  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  2800  includes a hood  2820  and a collection tube  2840 . The hood  2820  is configured with elastic members that enable the hood to expand open for use and be collapsed when the hood  2820  is not in use, for example in the manner of a quick-open tent. The hood  2820  blocks dust and debris particles from exiting the area behind the miter saw  60 , and the collection tube  2840  collects the dust and debris from within the hood  2820 . In some embodiments, the collection tube is connected to a vacuum source to pull the dust and debris away from the circular saw. 
       FIG. 36  depicts a suction hose  2910  for use in a dust collection system of a circular saw. The hose  2910  is a fixed length hose that is formed of a pliable material to enable the hose  2910  to bend to a desired position. 
       FIG. 37  illustrates another suction hose  2920  for use in a dust collection system of a circular saw. The suction hose  2920  includes an outer tube  2922  and an inner tube  2924 . The inner tube  2924  is configured to telescope into the outer tube  2922  to vary the length of the suction hose  2920 . Sealing elements  2926  prevent leakage of air and dust from the suction hose at the junction of the outer and inner tubes  2922  and  2924 . 
       FIG. 38  illustrates another suction hose  2930  having a rubber gaiter  2932 . The rubber gaiter  2932  is interposed between two hose portions  2934  and  2936  and enables the suction hose  2930  to bend and contract at the rubber gaiter  2932  to position the suction hose  2930  at a variety of angles and positions. 
       FIG. 39  illustrates a dust transport  2940  having a rigid hollow tube  2942 , which defines a transport channel  2944  and an upper opening  2946 , and a plurality of brushes  2948  positioned in the upper opening  2946 . Dust and debris flows through the transport channel  2944 , while the brushes  2948  prevent the dust and debris from exiting the channel  2944  through the upper opening  2946 . 
       FIG. 40  illustrates another dust transport  2950  having a plurality of links  2952  attached to one another. The links  2952  are hollow and each link  2952  includes a curved end  2954  and a flat end  2956 . The flat end  2956  is configured to pivotably support the curved end  2954  of the adjacent link  2952 , enabling each link  2952  in the chain to pivot with respect to the neighboring links  2952 . A channel for dust and debris transport is formed through the center of the chain of connected links  2952 . 
       FIG. 41  depicts a miter saw  60  having a stand  3010  with a hollow channel  3020 . The hollow channel  3020  is connected at one end to a suction hose  2910  that connects to a dust collection system of the miter saw  60 . The hollow channel  3020  is connected at the other end to another suction hose  2911 , which is substantially identical to suction hose  2910 , to connect the channel  3020  to a collection area  3040 . Dust and debris collected by the dust collection system of the miter saw  60  is transported through the suction hose  2910 , to the hollow channel  3020 , through the second suction hose  2911 , and into the collection area  3040 . 
       FIG. 42  depicts a suction channel  3100  formed of a plurality of bowls  3102 . The bowls  3012  are attached to one another by a flexible connector  3104  to form a flexible chain. Dust and debris flows through the hollow center of the bowls  3102  and connectors  3104 . 
       FIGS. 43A and 43B  depict a self-contracting suction hose  3110 . The self-contracting suction hose  3110  includes a spring  3112  connected by an airtight flexible membrane  3114 . The spring  3112  contracts the hose  3110  to the position of  FIG. 43A  in the absence of external forces, collapsing the flexible membrane  3114  within the spring  3112 . The spring is configured to expand the hose  3110  to the position of  FIG. 43B  as the ends of the hose  3110  are pulled apart. Dust and debris flows through the center of the spring  3112  and membrane  3114 . 
       FIG. 44  illustrates a telescoping dust transport  3120 . The telescoping dust transport  3120  includes a plurality of telescoping channels  3124  that telescope within one another to enable expansion and contraction of the dust transport  3120 . The transport  3120  also includes a hose connector  3122  for connecting the transport  3120  to a hose, for example of a dust collection system. Dust and debris travels through the center of the telescoping channels  3124 . In one embodiment, the telescoping channels are formed by two pieces of C-channel facing opposite directions. 
       FIGS. 45-54  illustrate various dust separation apparatus for use in a dust collection system. 
       FIG. 45  shows a textile dust bag  3210  that collects dust and debris within the dust bag  3120 . 
       FIG. 46  illustrates a paper bag  3220  that collects dust and debris from a dust collection system. In some embodiments, the bag is made of fleece or another suitable material. 
       FIG. 47  illustrates a filter cartridge  3230  including a support member  3232  and a filter portion  3234 . The support member  3232  retains the filter cartridge  3230  in a definite shape, while the filter portion  3234  includes a filter material that filters dust and debris out of air as the air moves through the filter portion  3234 . 
       FIG. 48  shows a water separation apparatus  3240  for a dust collection system. The water separation apparatus includes an air pipe  3242  through which dust and air from a dust collection system flows, and a water tank  3246 . The air pipe  3242  has an outlet  3244  that is submerged in water  3248  in the water tank  3246 . Air having dust and debris flows through the air pipe  3242  and out the outlet  3246 . Dust and debris remains in the water  3248 , while air passes rises out of the water and passes through outlet  3249 . The water  3248  having dust and debris is then disposed of. 
       FIG. 49  depicts another filter cartridge  3250  for a dust collection system. The filter cartridge  3250  includes an upper annular support  3252 , a lower annular support  3254 , and a filter portion  3256  interposed between the upper and lower annular supports  3252  and  3254 . Air having dust and debris flows through the filter cartridge  3250 , and the filter portion  3256  removes the dust and debris from the air for subsequent disposal. 
       FIG. 50  illustrates a cyclone dust separation apparatus  3260  for a dust collection system. The cyclone apparatus  3260  includes an inlet  3262 , a cylindrical chamber  3264 , and an outlet  3266 . Air having dust and debris enters the chamber through the inlet  3262 . The inlet  3262  is offset from the center of the cylindrical chamber  3264  such that the air enters the chamber  3264  with an angular velocity and forms a cyclone within the chamber  3264 . Dust and debris moves to the outside of the chamber due to centripetal forces, eventually settling on the bottom of the chamber  3264 , while clean air flows from the outlet  3266 . 
       FIG. 51  depicts a membrane filter  3270  for a dust collection system. The membrane filter  3270  is formed of a material having small pores that allow air to pass through, but disable dust and debris from passing through the membrane. Dust and debris is collected within the membrane filter  3270  for subsequent disposal. 
       FIG. 52  illustrates a cyclone dust separation apparatus  3280  having a filter cartridge  3250  substantially identical to the filter cartridge described with reference to  FIG. 49 . The cyclone apparatus  3280  includes an inlet  3282 , a cylindrical chamber  3284 , and an outlet  3286 . Air having dust and debris enters the chamber through the inlet  3282 . The inlet  3282  is offset from the center of the cylindrical chamber  3284  such that the air flowing into the chamber  3284  forms a cyclone within the chamber. Dust and debris moves to the outside of the chamber due to centripetal force, eventually settling on the bottom of the chamber  3284 , while clean air flows from the outlet  3286 . The filter cartridge  3250  prevents any residual dust from flowing through the outlet  3286 , ensuring that the outflow is clean air and the dust and debris is collected in the chamber  3284 . 
       FIG. 53  illustrates an electrostatic dust filter  3290 . The electrostatic filter  3290  has an inlet  3292  with an anode  3293 , which imparts a positive charge on dust particles as the dust particles pass into a filter chamber  3294 . The filter chamber  3294  includes a plurality of negatively charged members  3295  that attract the positively charged dust particles. Clean air then passes through the outlet  3296 , while the dust collected in the filter  3290  is subsequently disposed. 
       FIG. 54  depicts a dust collection system  3300  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  3300  includes a dust chute  3320  positioned proximate to the saw blade  80  and a suction hose  3324  connecting the dust chute  3320  to an exhauster  3310 . The exhauster  3310  is positioned immediately beneath the miter saw  60  and is mounted to a lower surface of the miter saw  60 . 
       FIG. 55  illustrates another dust collection system  3400  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  3400  includes an exhauster  3410  positioned above the circular saw  60 . The exhauster  3410  is configured to slide with the miter saw  60  as the user moves the miter saw  60 . 
       FIG. 56  illustrates a dust collection system  3500  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  3500  includes a dust chute  3520  positioned proximate to the blade  80  of the saw  60  to collect dust from a cutting operation. The dust chute  3520  is connected to an exhauster  3510 , which moves the air from the dust chute  3520  to a collection bag  3514 . 
       FIG. 57  illustrates another dust collection system  3600  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  3600  includes an exhauster  3610  and a dust collection tube  3620 . The dust collection tube  3620  is positioned behind and beneath the saw  60 , while the exhauster  3610  is positioned behind the collection tube and is configured to receive dust and debris from the saw  60  through the tube  3620 . 
       FIG. 58  depicts a dust collection system  3700  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system includes an exhauster  3710 , a collection bag  3714 , and a flexible suction hose  3724 . The exhauster  3710  is mounted on the saw slide  72  of the miter saw  60  by a magnet  3718  affixed to the exhauster  3710 . The collection bag  3714  is positioned on the exhauster  3710  to receive air, dust, and debris forced from the suction hose  3724  through the exhauster  3710 . 
       FIG. 59  illustrates another dust collection system  3800  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  3800  includes an exhauster  3810  connected to a dust collector (not shown) of the miter saw  60  by a flexible suction hose  3820 . The exhauster  3810  is not affixed to a structure, and the flexible suction hose  3820  enables the exhauster  3810  to be positioned in a desired position by the user. Several possible positions for placing the exhauster  3810  are shown in  FIG. 59 . 
       FIG. 60  illustrates yet another dust collection system  3900  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  3900  includes an exhauster  3910  and a suction hose  3920  that connects to a dust collector (not shown) of the miter saw  60 . The exhauster  3910  is positioned within a table on which the miter saw  60  is supported. In some embodiments, the exhauster is integral with a base of the miter saw. 
       FIG. 61  illustrates a dust collection system  4000  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  4000  includes an exhauster  4010  and a dust collection hood  4020 . The dust collection hood  4020  collects dust and debris from about the miter saw  60 . The exhauster  4010  is mounted to the top of the dust collection hood  4020  and is configured to receive dust and debris collected by the dust collection hood  4020 . 
       FIG. 62  illustrates a dust collection system  4100  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  4100  includes an exhauster  4110  and a saw guard  4120 . The exhauster  4110  is mounted to the saw guard  4120  and is configured to receive dust and debris expelled during a cutting operation of the miter saw  60 . 
       FIG. 63  shows another dust collection system  4200  for a miter saw  60 . The dust collection system  4200  includes an exhauster  4210  having wheels  4214  to enable mobility of the dust collection system  4200 . The miter saw  60  is mounted on top of the exhauster  4210  to enable simple combined transport of the dust collection system  4200  and the miter saw  60 . 
       FIG. 64  illustrates yet another dust collection system  4300  for a miter saw. The dust collection system  4300  includes a dust collection hood  4320  and an exhauster  4310 . The dust collection hood  4320  is configured to be positioned around a miter saw to prevent egress of dust and debris produced during a cutting operation. The exhauster  4310  is integrally mounted to the rear of the hood  4320  to receive the dust and debris trapped under the hood  4320 . 
     It will be appreciated that variants of the above-described and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems, applications or methods. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art that are also intended to be encompassed by the disclosure.