Patent Publication Number: US-8991806-B2

Title: Extension table assembly for power tools

Description:
PRIORITY/CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/635,387, filed 19 Apr. 2012, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The disclosure generally relates to the field of power tools. Particular embodiments relate to table assemblies for power tools. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Power tools are typically used in a workshop, mounted on a workbench. Oftentimes, such power tools are needed to be used at a remote location, such as a jobsite. When used at such a jobsite, the power tool is either placed on a support surface, mounted on a portable workbench (table assembly). 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Several exemplary extension table assemblies for power tools are described herein. Such power tools having a working surface for supporting a piece of material to be modified. Such power tools also having a working area where the power tool can modify (e.g., cut) a piece of material. 
     An exemplary extension table assembly comprises a frame portion, an arm portion, at least one drive system, and a measurement system. The frame portion for supporting the power tool above a surface. The frame portion comprising at least one power tool mount configured for mounting the power tool there-on. The frame portion comprising at least one surface support for supporting the frame portion above a surface, and at least one connector for connecting the frame portion to the arm portion. The arm portion comprising a distal end and a proximal end. The distal and proximal ends defining an arm portion length there-between. The proximal end connects with the frame portion at the connector. The arm portion further comprising a support surface for supporting the piece of material to be modified. It is preferred that the support surface be generally planar to the working surface. The drive system comprising a movable carriage and a shuttle having an end stop. The measurement system for computing the distance between the end stop and the working area to determine a material length. 
     Another exemplary extension table assembly for a power tool comprises a working surface for supporting a piece of material to be modified, and a working area where the power tool can modify (e.g., cut) a piece of material. The exemplary extension table assembly for a power tool comprising a frame portion, an arm portion, at least one drive system, and a measurement system. The frame portion comprising at least one power tool mount. The power tool mount configured for mounting the power tool there-on. The frame portion comprising at least one surface support for supporting the frame portion above a surface. The frame portion comprising at least one connector for connecting the frame portion to the arm portion. The arm portion comprising a distal end and a proximal end defining an arm portion length therebetween, wherein the proximal end connects with frame portion at the connector. The arm portion further comprising a support surface for supporting the piece of material to be modified, the support surface generally planar to the working surface. The drive system comprising a movable carriage and a shuttle having an end stop, wherein the drive system further comprises a drive for driving the movable carriage along the rail. The measurement system comprises a sensor for sensing the relative position of the end stop relative to the working area and generating an end stop signal. The measurement system further comprises a microprocessor and an alpha-numeric display device. The microprocessor receives the end stop signal from the sensor. The microprocessor determines the distance from the end stop to the working area thereby computing the material length. The microprocessor outputs a length signal corresponding to the material length. The alpha-numeric display device receives the length signal from the microprocessor and provides an alpha-numeric representation of the material length. 
     Another exemplary extension table assembly comprises a frame portion, an arm portion, at least one drive system, and a measurement system. The frame portion comprising at least one power tool mount. The power tool mount configured for mounting the power tool there-on. The frame portion comprising at least one surface support for supporting the frame portion above a surface. The frame portion comprising at least one connector for connecting the frame portion to the arm portion. The arm portion comprising a distal end and a proximal end defining an arm portion length therebetween, wherein the proximal end connects with frame portion at the connector. The arm portion further comprising a support surface for supporting the piece of material to be modified, the support surface generally planar to the working surface, wherein a first guide channel is defined along the arm portion length, the first guide channel comprising a first rail, the movable carriage configured for moving along the first rail. The extension arm portion having a first end opposite a second end defining an extension arm portion length therebetween, the first end attaching to the distal end via an arm connector, the extension arm portion further comprises a second surface support for supporting the extension arm portion above the surface, the second surface support comprising a plurality of legs, wherein the legs are configured for extending between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein a second guide channel is defined along the extension arm portion length, the second guide channel comprising a second rail, the movable carriage configured for moving along the second rail, the second guide channel aligned with the first guide channel when the arm portion and the extension arm portion are in their use position, wherein the extension arm portion further comprising a second support surface for supporting the piece of material to be modified, the second support surface generally planar to the support surface when the arm portion and the extension arm portion are in their use position. The arm portion and the extension arm portion have a use position and a stowed position, wherein the arm connector comprises a hinge portion for hingedly connecting the extension arm portion to the arm portion, wherein the arm portion and the extension arm portion each comprises an underside surface, wherein in the stowed position the arm portion and the extension arm portion are folded together so that the underside surfaces face one another. The drive system comprising a movable carriage having an end stop, wherein the drive system further comprises a drive for driving the movable carriage along rail, wherein the drive comprises: a drive pulley on a drive shaft, a second pulley on a second shaft, a hand-wheel for turning the drive shaft, and a belt extending between the drive pulley and the second pulley, wherein the movable carriage is attached to the belt, wherein rotation of the hand-wheel in a first direction causes the movable carriage to advance along the rail in a first direction, and wherein rotation of the hand-wheel in a second direction causes the movable carriage to advance along the rail in a second direction. The measurement system comprises a rotary encoder on the drive shaft, the rotary encoder for sensing the relative position of the end stop relative to the working area and generating an end stop signal, wherein the measurement system further comprises a microprocessor and an alpha-numeric display device, wherein the microprocessor receives the end stop signal from the rotary encoder, wherein the microprocessor determines the distance from the end stop to the working area thereby computing the material length, wherein the microprocessor outputs a length signal corresponding to the material length, wherein the alpha-numeric display device receives the length signal from the microprocessor and provides an alpha-numeric representation of the material length. 
     Additional understanding of the devices contemplated and/or claimed by the inventor can be gained by reviewing the detailed description of exemplary devices and methods, presented below, and the referenced drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective representational view of a first exemplary extension table assembly, illustrated with a power tool attached thereto. 
         FIG. 2  is a first end view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a top plan view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrated without the power tool attached there-to. 
         FIG. 4  is a side view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrated without the power tool attached there-to. 
         FIG. 5  is a partial, perspective view of the drive system of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a partial, perspective view of a portion of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7  is a partial, perspective view of a portion of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrated without the power tool attached there-to. 
         FIG. 8  is a partial, perspective view of a portion of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrated without the power tool attached there-to. 
         FIG. 9  is a partial, side view of a portion of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 10  is a partial, perspective end view of a portion of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 11  is a partial, perspective view of a portion of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 12  is a first, perspective sequential view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1  being folded into its stowed position, illustrated without the power tool attached there-to. 
         FIG. 13  is a second, perspective sequential view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1  being folded into its stowed position, illustrated without the power tool attached there-to. 
         FIG. 14  is a third, perspective sequential view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1  being folded into its stowed position, illustrated without the power tool attached there-to. 
         FIG. 15  is a fourth, perspective sequential view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1  being folded into its stowed position, illustrated without the power tool attached there-to. 
         FIG. 16  is a partial, perspective view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1  shown folded into its stowed position. 
         FIG. 17  is a partial, perspective view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1  shown folded into its stowed position, illustrated without the power tool attached there-to. 
         FIG. 18  is a side view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1  shown folded into its stowed position, moved into a towed mode. 
         FIG. 19  is a side view of the extension table assembly of  FIG. 1  shown folded into its stowed position, shown standing up in a storage mode. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following description and the referenced drawings provide illustrative examples of that which the inventor regards as his invention. As such, the embodiments discussed herein are merely exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, or its protection, in any manner. Rather, the description and illustration of these embodiments serve to enable a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art to practice the invention. 
     The use of “e.g.,” “etc,” “for instance,” “in example,” “for example,” and “or” and grammatically related terms indicates non-exclusive alternatives without limitation, unless otherwise noted. The use of “including” and grammatically related terms means “including, but not limited to,” unless otherwise noted. The use of the articles “a,” “an” and “the” are meant to be interpreted as referring to the singular as well as the plural, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a belt” includes two or more such belts, and the like. The use of “optionally,” “alternatively,” and grammatically related terms means that the subsequently described element, event or circumstance may or may not be present/occur, and that the description includes instances where said element, event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. The use of “preferred,” “preferably,” and grammatically related terms means that a specified element or technique is more acceptable than another, but not that such specified element or technique is a necessity, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The use of “exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey a meaning of an ideal or preferred embodiment. 
     The use of “power tool” means “a tool that is actuated by an additional power source and mechanism other than the solely manual labor used with hand tools,” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Examples of power tools include, but are not limited to, saws (e.g., chop saws, miter saws, cut-off saws, band saws, radial arm saws, scroll saws, table saws), shears, grinders, sanders, jointers, planers, trimmers, drills, tile cutters, and routers. 
     The use of “material” means “the material the power tool modifies (e.g., cuts, melts, crimps, drills),” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Examples of material include, but are not limited to, dimensional lumber, pipe, tubing, wire, and structural steel (e.g., beams, angle iron, channel, rods, bars, plate). 
     The use of “working area” mean “the location where the power tool modifies the material,” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Examples of working areas include, but are not limited to, the plane of cut of a saw, and the point where a drill bit engages material. 
     A first embodiment of the inventive concept(s) is illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 19 . The first illustrated embodiment comprising an extension table assembly  10  for a power tool  2 . The power tool  2  having a working surface  4  for supporting a piece of material  6  to be modified, and a working area  8  where the power tool  2  can modify the piece of material  6 , for instance by cutting. In an exemplary embodiment, the piece of material comprises a piece of dimensional lumber, the power tool comprises a miter saw, the working surface comprises the surface of the miter saw utilized to support piece of dimensional lumber during cutting, and the working area comprises the plane of cut for the miter saw. 
     The first exemplary extension table assembly  10  comprises a frame portion  20  for supporting the power tool  2  above a surface  3 , an arm portion  40 , at least one drive system  60 , and a measurement system  80 . Optionally, an extension arm portion  50  is provided. 
     The frame portion  20  comprising at least one power tool mount  21 . The power tool mount  21  particularly illustrated in  FIGS. 3 ,  4 , and  17 . The power tool mount  21  configured for allowing the power tool  2  to be mounted onto the frame portion  20 . It is preferred that this connection be temporary so that the power tool  2  can be easily removed from the frame portion  20 , but in other embodiments the power tool  2  may be more fixedly attached to the frame portion  20 , for instance via bolts. 
     In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the power tool mount  21  comprises a left support  121  and a right support  122  which allow the power tool  2  to be easily connected to and disconnected from the frame portion  20 . For illustrative purposes,  FIG. 17  does not illustrate the power tool connected to either the left support  121 , or the right support  122 . The left support  121  and/or the right support  122  can be configured for attachment to the bottom of the power tool  2 , or the frame portion  20 , through a suitable connection, for instance a plurality of bolts. For instance, in one connection, the left support  121  and right support  122  are configured for attachment to the bottom of the power tool  2 . In a second connection, the left support  121  is configured for attachment to the bottom of the power tool  2 , whereas the right support  122  is configured for attachment to the frame  20  such that the tool  2  when in place rests on right support  122 . In a third connection, the right support  122  is configured for attachment to the bottom of the power tool  2 , whereas the left support  121  is configured for attachment to the frame  20  such that the tool  2  when in place rests on left support  121 . In a fourth connection, the left support  121  and the right support  122  are configured for attachment to the frame  20  such that the tool  2  when in place rests on the left and right supports. The variance in configuration is at the operators preference, and the type of, or lack of, connection to the frame  20  will determine if holes, welds, or other modifications to left support  121  or right support  122  are present, and a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate structure in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. 
     It is preferred that the power tool mount  21  be fixed in location relative to the frame portion  20  and the arm portion  40 . In such a configuration, the frame portion  20  and power tool mount  21  are located at a first end of the extension table assembly  10  with the arm portion  40  and extension arm portion  50  (if present) extending away there-from. 
     In the power tool mount  21  illustrated with the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the left support  121  further comprises at least one connector for allowing the power tool mount  21  to be connected to the frame portion  20 . While the first extension table assembly  10  illustrates this as a lateral connection, other orientations of connections are also envisioned. 
     In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , provided are two lateral connectors, namely a proximal lateral connector  123  and a distal lateral connector  124 . The lateral connectors ( 123 ,  124 ) comprising heads ( 125 ,  126 ) configured for sliding into channels ( 127 ,  128 ) defined in the frame portion  20 , thereby laterally connecting the power tool mount  21  to the frame portion  20 . In such a configuration, the power tool mount  21  can rest upon the frame portion  20 . Other manners of attaching the power tool to the extension table assembly are also envisioned. The lateral connectors can be adjustable for allowing a user to better fix the power tool to the extension table assembly once attached, for instance through the tightening of one or more bolts. 
     In such a configuration, where the left support  121  is attached to the bottom of the power tool  2 , a user desiring to remove the power tool from the extension table assembly merely needs to lift upwards on the power tool  2  to disengage the lateral connectors ( 123 ,  124 ) from their connection with the channels ( 127 ,  128 ), thereby enabling the user to remove the power tool  2  from the extension table assembly  10 . To connect the power tool  2  to the extension table assembly  10 , the reverse process utilized, with the power tool  2  set onto the extension table assembly  10  with the lateral connectors ( 123 ,  124 ) engaging the channels ( 127 ,  128 ). 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , in the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the frame portion  20  comprises a first side  24  opposite a second side  25 . The frame portion  20  comprising at least one connector  23  for connecting the frame portion  20  to the arm portion  40 . The connector  23  attaching the arm portion  40  to the frame portion  20  so that the arm portion  40  generally extends away from the first side  24 . 
     In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the connector  23  comprising the bolting of the proximal end  42  of the arm portion  40  to the first side  24  of the frame portion  20 . Other types of connectors could be used for connecting these two components together, and a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate structure and material for the connector and connection in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. 
     The arm portion  40  further comprises a support surface  44 , and the extension arm portion  50  further comprises a second support surface  90 . The support surface  44  and the second support surface  90  for supporting a piece of material  6  to be modified. It is preferred that the second support surface  90  be generally planar to the support surface  44  when the arm portion  40  and the extension arm portion  50  are in their use position (described below). It is further preferred that the working surface  4  of the power tool  2  be generally planar with the support surface  44  of the arm portion (and second support surface  90  of the extension arm portion  50 , when present and in their use position). 
     Depending upon the particular make and model of power tool  2  used, the height of the working surface  4  relative to the support surface  44  may need to be adjusted through use of a horizontal adjustment device. One exemplary horizontal adjustment device  130  is illustrated in  FIG. 17 . The horizontal adjustment device  130  for allowing the height of the working surface  4 , relative to the support surface  44 , to be adjusted upwards or downwards as necessary to make the working surface  4  generally level with the support surface  44 . In the first exemplary extension table assembly, the horizontal adjustment device  130  comprises a plurality of adjustable risers  129 . 
     In the first extension table assembly  10 , the adjustable risers  129  extend downwards from the left support  121  and right support  122  of the power tool mount  21  for contacting a base surface  120  of the frame portion  20 . Alternatively, the adjustable risers could extend upwards from the base surface  120  of the frame portion  20  for contacting the under side of the power tool and/or the under side of the power tool mount  21 . Horizontal adjustment can be accomplished through any number of mechanical apparatuses, including, but not limited to, bolts, pins, rods, and bumpers. Such mechanical apparatuses may be fixed in height and/or may be adjustable, for instance, by the turning of a bolt head to adjust height. Other types of horizontal adjustment devices include, but are not limited to, spacers and/or spacer plates. 
     As illustrated particularly in  FIGS. 1 through 4 , the frame portion  20  comprising at least one surface support  22  for supporting the frame portion  20  above a surface  3 . In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the surface support  22  comprising a pair of legs  55  extending from the frame portion  20 . A second pair of legs  155  are illustrated extending from the second end  52  of the extension arm portion  50 . In embodiments not comprising an extension arm portion, as a second surface support  54 , a pair of legs (not illustrated) could extend from the arm portion  40  or from another location instead of the presence of the second pair of legs  155 . 
     In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the legs ( 55 ,  155 ) are configured for extending between an extended position (use) and a retracted position (stowed).  FIG. 1  illustrates the extended leg position, whereas  FIGS. 14 ,  15 ,  17 ,  18  and  20  illustrate the retracted leg position. 
     It is further preferred that the surface support  22  comprise at least one wheel support  99  configured for contacting an operational surface  3  when the legs ( 55 ,  155 ) are in the retracted position. One embodiment of a surface support  22  is illustrated in  FIGS. 17 through 19 , namely a pair of wheel supports ( 99 ,  199 ) connecting to opposite sides of the frame portion  20 .  FIG. 18  illustrating the exemplary extension table assembly  10  in a towed mode whereby a user could move the first exemplary extension table assembly  10  from a first location to a second location with the wheel supports ( 99 ,  199 ) supporting the assembly while being towed behind the user. The term “towed” used broadly, to include both pulling and pushing movements of the exemplary extension table assembly. 
     In the first exemplary extension table assembly, the wheel supports ( 99 ,  199 ) further comprise a mount ( 76 ,  176 ) having a storage rest ( 78 ,  178 ) configured for resting upon the surface  3  when the extension table assembly  10  is in its stowed position/storage mode. It is preferred that a kickstand  79  be further provided for stabilizing the extension table assembly  10  when in its stowed position/storage mode, as illustrated in  FIG. 19 . The kickstand  79  able to be rotated outwards from the frame portion  20  and into place. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , in the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the arm portion  40  has a distal end  41  and a proximal end  42 . The distal end  41  and proximal end  42  define an arm portion length L 1  therebetween. Further, the extension arm portion  50  comprises a first end  51  opposite a second end  52 . The first end  51  and second end  52  define an extension arm portion length L 2  therebetween. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 3 ,  7 ,  8  and  16 , in the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , support surface  44  of the arm portion  40  comprises a first guide channel  45  defined along the length of the arm portion length L 1 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 3 ,  6 ,  10  and  16 , the extension arm portion  50  comprises a second guide channel  58  is defined along the extension arm portion length L 2 . While the first guide channel  45  is illustrated as extending from the proximal end  42  to the distal end  41  of the arm portion  40 , the guide channel  45  could extend a shorter distance. While the second guide channel  58  is illustrated as extending from the first end  51  to the second end  52  of the extension arm portion  50 , the second guide channel  58  could extend a shorter distance. It is preferred that the first guide channel  45  and the second guide channel  58  be aligned when the arm portion  40  and extension arm portion  50  are in their in use position. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3 and 16 , the arm portion  40  further comprises a rail  46  extending along the length of the arm portion length L 1 . The rail  46  configured for connecting with the movable carriage  61  so that the movable carriage  61  can be moved along the rail  46 . In the illustrated exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the rail  46  comprising a generally C-shaped track  48 . The extension arm portion  50  further comprises a second rail  59  extending along the length of the extension arm portion length L 2 . The second rail  59  (like the rail  46 ) configured for connecting with the movable carriage  61  so that the movable carriage  61  can be moved along the second rail  59 . The second rail  59  preferably aligned with the rail  46  in order that the movable carriage  61  can transit from the rail  46  to the second rail  59 . In the illustrated exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the second rail  59  comprising a generally C-shaped track  77 . The exemplary extension table assembly illustrated in the drawings illustrates the rails as being channel-shaped. Alternatively, rails could be shaped otherwise, for instance being rectangular, square or other shaped. A skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate mount and configuration for the movable carriage as it relates to the arm portions for the extension table assembly in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. 
     Again, while the exemplary extension table assembly  10  is illustrated having a pair of arm portions (the arm portion  40 , and the extension arm portion  50 ), more or less arm portions could be provided in a given extension table assembly, and a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate number and configuration of arm portions for the extension table assembly in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. 
     In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the first end  51  for the extension arm portion  50  attaches to the distal end  41  of the arm portion  40  through use of an arm connector  53 . In the first exemplary extension table assembly, the arm connector  53  comprises at least one hinge portion  56  for hingedly connecting the extension arm portion  50  to the arm portion  40 . In another exemplary extension table assembly (not illustrated), the extension arm portion is configured for telescopically extending from the arm portion. While the first exemplary extension table assembly utilizes a hinged arm connector connection, a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate structure and configuration for a connector for the extension table assembly in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. 
     Together, the arm portion  40  and the extension arm portion  50  have a use position (illustrated in  FIG. 1 ) and a stowed position (illustrated in  FIGS. 14 through 19 ). 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 12 ,  13  and  16 , the arm portion  40  comprises an underside surface  47 , and the extension arm portion  50  comprises an underside surface  57 . When in the stowed position, the arm portion  40  and the extension arm portion  50  are folded together (as illustrated in  FIG. 13 ) so that the underside surfaces ( 47 ,  57 ) face one another. A locking device  49  (illustrated in  FIGS. 1 ,  4 ,  18  and  19 ) may be utilized to lock the arm portion  40  and the extension arm portion  50  in their stowed position. 
     When in the use position, the arm portion  40  and the extension arm portion  50  are unfolded from facing one another, and the arm portion  40  and the extension arm portion  50  are arranged in an end-to-end fashion with the underside surfaces ( 47 ,  57 ) generally planar with one another, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 16 , the arm portion  40  further comprises a first notch  91  configured for receiving a portion of the belt  68  when in the stowed position, and the extended arm portion  50  further comprises a second notch  92  configured for receiving a portion of the belt  68  when in the stowed position. These notches allowing the extension table assembly  10  to be folded into a stowed position without stretching the belt  68 , or needing a tensioning device. In other embodiments, a tensioning device for applying tension to the belt may be included. 
     The drive system  60  for providing a movable end stop location. The drive system  60  comprises a movable carriage  61  and a shuttle  70  having an end stop  71 . The end stop  71  providing a location (first surface  35 , second surface  36 ) against which an end of the material  6  to be cut is placed. The movable carriage  61  configured for moving along the first rail  46  of the arm portion  40 , and the second rail  59  of the extension arm portion  50 . 
     In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the movable carriage  61  is bolted to the belt  68 . While bolting the movable carriage to the belt is disclosed and illustrated, a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate manner of connecting the two structures together in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. 
     In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10  illustrated in the Figures, the drive system  60  comprise a drive  62  for driving the movable carriage  61  along the first rail  46  of the arm portion  40 , and the second rail  59  of the extension arm portion  50 . Referring particularly to  FIG. 5 , the drive  62  comprises a drive pulley  63  on a drive shaft  64 , a second pulley  65  on a second shaft  66 , a hand-wheel  67  for turning the drive shaft  64 , and a belt  68  extending between the drive pulley  63  and the second pulley  65 . It is preferred that the drive pulley  63  and second pulley  65  comprise teeth configured for intermeshing with teeth on the belt  68 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , rotation of the hand-wheel  67  in a first direction F 1  causes the movable carriage  61  to advance along the rail  46  in a first direction F 2 , whereas rotation of the hand-wheel  67  in a second direction S 1  causes the movable carriage  61  to advance along the rail  46  in a second direction S 2 . 
     Referring back to  FIG. 3 , in the exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the drive pulley  63  is located towards the proximal end  42  of the arm portion  40 , and the second pulley  65  is located towards the second end  52  of the extension arm portion  50 . A skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate location and structure for the drive pulley and second pulley in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. 
     Alternatively, the drive could comprise a linear actuator drive system, a rack-and-pinion system, a belt-drive system, a roller chain system, a helical gear system (aka “worm gears”), a cable/rope and pulley system, or other systems, and a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate drive for the extension table assembly in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. Further, the drive could be mechanical actuator powered, hydraulic actuator powered, pneumatic actuator powered, piezoelectric actuator powered, electromechanical powered, telescoping linear powered, or other systems and a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate drive for the extension table assembly in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the shuttle  70  is preferably configured to connect to, or otherwise extends from, the movable carriage  61 . Alternatively, the shuttle could be formed as part of the movable carriage itself. In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the shuttle  70  comprises a generally L-shaped body having an end stop  71  extending there-from as one of the legs of the general L-shape. 
     The end stop  71  for abutting an end of material  6  to be worked, having a first surface  35  for contacting material, and a second surface  36  for contacting material. In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the shuttle  70  comprises a generally L-shaped body having an end stop  71  extending there-from as one of the legs of the general L-shape. 
     In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the shuttle  70  attaches to the movable carriage  61  via a friction fit. While such a connection is illustrated, other connections are possible, including, but not limited to, adhesives, and mechanical fasteners. The shuttle  70  comprises a first bore  72  and a second bore  73  defined therethrough. The movable carriage  61  comprises a first pin  74  and a second pin  75  extending therefrom. The pins ( 74 ,  75 ) complement the bores ( 72 ,  73 ) so that the first bore  72  can be slid onto the first pin  74 , and the second bore  73  can be slid onto the second pin  75 . Alternatively, the shuttle could comprise one or more pins extending there-from which are configured for engagement with one or more bores defined in the movable carriage. A skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate structure and material for the connection in a particular embodiment based on various considerations. 
     Further, the shuttle  70  can be detached from the movable carriage  61  and rotated one-hundred eighty degrees, so that the first bore  72  can be slid onto the second pin  75 , and the second bore  73  can be slid onto the first pin  74 . Such a configuration allowing the end stop  71  to, optionally, be located closer to, or further from, the working area  8 , for instance when a very short piece of material  6  is modified, thereby enabling the first surface  35  or the second surface  36  to contact the material  6  (a first surface facing position (the working area) and a second surface facing position). Further, the shuttle  70  can be detached from the movable carriage  61  so as to allow a very long length of material  6  to extend past the location of the movable carriage  61 . 
     It is preferred that the extension table assembly  10  further comprise a carriage position lock  69  for selectively preventing rotation of the drive shaft  64  or otherwise preventing the drive system  60  (and the movable carriage  61 ) from moving. By preventing rotation of the drive shaft  64 , the movable carriage  61  is able to be fixed in place so that the first surface  35  (or the second surface  36 ) of the end stop  71  is locked a predetermined distance from the working area  8 . As particularly illustrated in  FIGS. 7 through 9 , the carriage position lock  69  comprises a spring  169  wrapped around the drive shaft  64 , the spring  169  biased in a locked position where rotation of the drive shaft  64  is prevented. The spring  169  connecting at a first end to a pin  168 , whereas a second end extends through a passageway  166  defined in the arm portion  40 , and comprises a lever  167  which a user can move in a first direction to unlock the carriage position lock  69 . Whereas, releasing the lever  167  results in biased movement of the lever in the second direction returning the carriage position lock  69  to its locked position whereby the drive shaft  64  is prevented from further rotation, as particularly illustrated in  FIG. 9 . 
     While this is the preferred configuration for a carriage position lock  69 , other types of mechanisms and systems could be used for locking the position of the carriage (e.g., self locking helical gears, self locking motors), and a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate structure and material for the lock in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. In one example, the lock system comprises a brake disc and brake caliper style system. 
     Referring now, particularly, to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , extending from the movable carriage  61  is at least one wheel, preferably a plurality of wheels ( 27 ,  28 ,  29 ). In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , the plurality of wheels ( 27 ,  28 ,  29 ) extend from one side of the movable carriage  61 . In other embodiments, the wheels may extend from a different side or even from multiple sides of the movable carriage. The C-shaped track  48  of the arm portion  40  is configured for receiving therein the plurality of wheels ( 27 ,  28 ,  29 ), thereby allowing the movable carriage  61  to roll along the C-shaped track  48  in a first direction and a second direction. Likewise, if present, the C-shaped track  77  of the extension arm portion  50  is configured for receiving therein the plurality of wheels ( 27 ,  28 ,  29 ), thereby allowing the movable carriage  61  to roll along the C-shaped track  77  in a first direction and a second direction. While this (wheels mounted on a track) is the preferred manner of connecting the movable carriage to the arm portion, other types of mechanisms and systems could be utilized, and a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate structure and material for the carriage connection in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. 
     The first exemplary extension table assembly  10  further comprises a measurement system  80  for computing the distance between the first surface  35  and/or the second surface  36  of the end stop  71  and the working area  8  to determine a material length. The measurement system  80  comprises a sensor  81  for sensing the relative position of the first surface  35  and/or the second surface  36  of the end stop  71  relative to the working area  8 . Based upon this measurement, the sensor  81  generates an end stop signal. The sensor  81  illustrated in the figures comprising a rotary encoder connected to the drive shaft  64 , wherein rotation of the drive shaft  64  is converted to analog or digital code (the end stop signal). For instance rotation of one degree could be equal to 1/32 of an inch in length. While a rotary encoder is the preferred sensor, other types of mechanisms and systems could be utilized, and a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate structure and material for the sensor in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. Examples of other sensors include, but are not limited to, other types of encoders (e.g., optical encoders, mechanical encoders, electronic encoders), laser measurement (e.g., laser rangefinders such as those manufactured by Dimetix AG), ultrasonic measurement, and “digital tape measures.” 
     The measurement system  80  further comprises a microprocessor  82  and an alpha-numeric display device  83 . In the figures, the microprocessor  82  is integrated into the housing of the alpha-numeric display device  83 . In other embodiments, the microprocessor may be located separate therefrom. The microprocessor  82  receives the end stop signal from the sensor  81 , and determines the distance from the end stop  71  to the working area  8 . In doing so, the material length can be computed. This computation can further take into consideration whether the carriage is in its first surface facing position, or its second surface facing position, factoring the length or offset of the shuttle  70  into the computation, as necessary. 
     Preferably, the microprocessor  82  outputs a length signal corresponding to the material length. The alpha-numeric display device  83  receives the length signal from the microprocessor  82 , and provides an alpha-numeric representation of the material length to an operator of the extension table assembly  10 , for instance that the first surface  35  of the end stop  71  is located six-feet, two and one-quarter inches from the working area  8 . 
     Additionally, given inputs from the operator for compound cuts such as spring angle of the material, various widths and thicknesses of the material, and/or the wall condition for the cut, the microprocessor  82  can provide an output to the alpha-numeric display device  83  for the operator representing the bevel and miter angles at which to set the saw. Further, given an end stop signal, the microprocessor  82  can provide the shortest-to-shortest, longest-to-longest, shortest-to-longest, and/or the longest-to-shortest point lengths on rectangular and crown molding materials in a compound cut. 
     In the first exemplary extension table assembly  10 , where the power tool  2  comprises a miter saw, the alpha-numeric display device  83  could display other information, including but not limited to: the current angle (in the vertical plane) of the saw blade relative to the material (miter cut); the distance from the inside corner (of a miter cut) to the end stop (first surface  35  and/or second surface  36 ); the distance from the outside corner (of a miter cut) to the end stop (first surface  35  and/or second surface  36 ); the distance from between two inside, two outside, inside-to-outside, or outside-to-inside corners of a miter cut (first surface  35  and/or second surface  36 ) when the material is placed against the end stop; the distance between two first edges, two second edges or one of each edge of a bevel cut (1st/2nd surface) when the material is placed against the end stop; the current angle (in a bisecting plane) of the saw blade relative to the material (bevel cut); the distance from the first edge (of a bevel cut) to the end stop (first surface  35  and/or second surface  36 ); the distance from a second edge (of a bevel cut) to the end stop (first surface  35  and/or second surface  36 ); the distance between two first edges, two second edges or one of each edge of a bevel cut (first surface  35  and/or second surface  36 ) when the material is placed against the end stop; etc. It is preferred that an operator would be able to change the display of the alpha-numeric display device to display information in feet/inches/fractions, inches/fractions, metric units, etc. 
     A second exemplary extension table assembly for power tools comprises one or more of at least one tool mount, at least two arm portions, at least one guide channel, a carriage, at least one end stop assembly, a drive system, a measurement system, an alpha-numeric display device, at least one hinge connecting the arm portions together, and legs. 
     A third exemplary extension table assembly for power tools comprises one or more of at least one tool mount, at least one arm portion, at least one guide channel, a carriage, at least one end stop assembly, a drive system, a measurement system, and an alpha-numeric display device. 
     A fourth exemplary extension table assembly for power tools comprises one or more of at least one tool mount, at least two arm portions, a carriage, at least one end stop assembly, a drive system, a measurement system, an alpha-numeric display device, a connector connecting said arm portions together. 
     Embodiment 1 
     An exemplary extension table assembly for a power tool having a working surface for supporting a piece of material to be modified, and a working area where the power tool can modify (e.g., cut) a piece of material. The exemplary extension table assembly comprising a frame portion, an arm portion, at least one drive system, and a measurement system. The frame portion for supporting the power tool above a surface. The frame portion comprising at least one power tool mount configured for mounting the power tool there-on. The frame portion comprising at least one surface support for supporting the frame portion above a surface, and at least one connector for connecting the frame portion to the arm portion. The arm portion comprising a distal end and a proximal end. The distal and proximal ends defining an arm portion length there-between. The proximal end connects with the frame portion at the connector. The arm portion further comprising a support surface for supporting the piece of material to be modified. It is preferred that the support surface be generally planar to the working surface. The drive system comprising a movable carriage and a shuttle having an end stop. The measurement system for computing the distance between the end stop and the working area to determine a material length. 
     Preferably, the power tool mount is fixed in location relative to the frame portion, and fixed in place relative to the arm portion. Preferably, the frame portion comprises a first side opposite a second side, wherein the connector attaches the arm portion to the frame portion so that the arm portion generally extends away from the first side. Preferably, the surface support comprises a plurality of legs, wherein the legs are configured for extending between an extended position and a retracted position, and wherein the surface support comprises at least one wheel configured for contacting the surface when the legs are in the retracted position. Preferably, a first guide channel is defined along the arm portion length, the first guide channel comprising a rail, the movable carriage configured for moving along the rail. Preferably, the extension table assembly further comprises an extension arm portion having a first end opposite a second end defining an extension arm portion length therebetween, the first end attaching to the distal end via an arm connector. Preferably, the extension arm portion further comprises a second surface support for supporting the extension arm portion above the surface. Preferably, the second surface support comprises a plurality of legs, wherein the legs are configured for extending between an extended position and a retracted position. Preferably, the arm portion and the extension arm portion have a use position and a stowed position, wherein the arm connector comprises a hinge portion for hingedly connecting the extension arm portion to the arm portion, wherein the arm portion comprises an underside surface and the extension arm portion comprises an underside surface, wherein in the stowed position the arm portion and the extension arm portion are folded together so that the underside surfaces face one another. Preferably, a second guide channel is defined along the extension arm portion length, the second guide channel comprising a second rail, the movable carriage configured for moving along the second rail, the second guide channel aligned with the first guide channel when the arm portion and the extension arm portion are in their use position. Preferably, the extension arm portion further comprises a second support surface for supporting the piece of material to be modified, the second support surface generally planar to the support surface when the arm portion and the extension arm portion are in their use position. Preferably, the measurement system comprises a sensor for sensing the relative position of the end stop relative to the working area and generating an end stop signal. Preferably, the measurement system further comprises a microprocessor and an alpha-numeric display device, wherein the microprocessor receives the end stop signal from the sensor, wherein the microprocessor determines the distance from the end stop to the working area thereby computing the material length, wherein the microprocessor outputs a length signal corresponding to the material length, wherein the alpha-numeric display device receives the length signal from the microprocessor and provides an alpha-numeric representation of the material length. Preferably, the drive system further comprises a drive for driving the movable carriage along the rail. Preferably, a first guide channel is defined along the arm portion length, the first guide channel comprising a rail, the movable carriage configured for moving along the rail, wherein the drive drives the movable carriage along the rail. Preferably, the drive comprises: a drive pulley on a drive shaft, a second pulley on a second shaft, a hand-wheel for turning the drive shaft, and a belt extending between the drive pulley and the second pulley, wherein the movable carriage is attached to the belt, wherein rotation of the hand-wheel in a first direction causes the movable carriage to advance along the rail in a first direction, and rotation of the hand-wheel in a second direction causes the movable carriage to advance along the rail in a second direction. Preferably, the drive further comprises a lock for preventing rotation of the drive shaft thereby locking the movable carriage in place. 
     Preferably, the power tool is a saw. Preferably, the power tool working area comprises the plane of cut of the saw where the saw is configured for cutting the/a piece of material. Preferably, the power tool mount comprises a platform defining a plurality of mounting holes defined there-through, wherein a plurality of bolts can be inserted through the mounting holes and threaded into threaded holes defined in the power tool thereby attaching the power tool to the power tool mount. 
     Optionally, the frame portion comprises one or more spacers for spacing the tool apart from the platform, the spacers comprising a plurality of spacer holes defined there-through, the one or more of the spacer holes configured for alignment with one or more of the mounting holes, wherein at least one of the plurality of bolts extends through one of the mounting holes and is threaded into one of the threaded holes. 
     Embodiment 2 
     An exemplary extension table assembly for a power tool having a working surface for supporting a piece of material to be modified, and a working area where the power tool can modify (e.g., cut) a piece of material. The exemplary extension table assembly for a power tool comprising a frame portion, an arm portion, at least one drive system, and a measurement system. The frame portion comprising at least one power tool mount. The power tool mount configured for mounting the power tool there-on. The frame portion comprising at least one surface support for supporting the frame portion above a surface. The frame portion comprising at least one connector for connecting the frame portion to the arm portion. The arm portion comprising a distal end and a proximal end defining an arm portion length therebetween, wherein the proximal end connects with frame portion at the connector. The arm portion further comprising a support surface for supporting the piece of material to be modified, the support surface generally planar to the working surface. The drive system comprising a movable carriage and a shuttle having an end stop, wherein the drive system further comprises a drive for driving the movable carriage along the rail. The measurement system comprises a sensor for sensing the relative position of the end stop relative to the working area and generating an end stop signal. The measurement system further comprises a microprocessor and an alpha-numeric display device. The microprocessor receives the end stop signal from the sensor. The microprocessor determines the distance from the end stop to the working area thereby computing the material length. The microprocessor outputs a length signal corresponding to the material length. The alpha-numeric display device receives the length signal from the microprocessor and provides an alpha-numeric representation of the material length. 
     Preferably, the extension table assembly comprises an extension arm portion. The extension arm portion having a first end opposite a second end defining an extension arm portion length there-between. The first end attaching to the distal end via an arm connector. The extension arm portion further comprises a second surface support for supporting the extension arm portion above the surface. The second surface support comprising a plurality of legs. The legs are configured for extending between an extended position and a retracted position. 
     Preferably, a second guide channel is defined along the extension arm portion length. The second guide channel comprising a second rail. The movable carriage configured for moving along the second rail. The second guide channel aligned with the first guide channel when the arm portion and the extension arm portion are in their use position. The extension arm portion further comprising a second support surface for supporting the piece of material to be modified, the second support surface generally planar to the support surface when the arm portion and the extension arm portion are in their use position. 
     Preferably, the arm portion and the extension arm portion have a use position and a stowed position. The arm connector comprising a hinge portion for hingedly connecting the extension arm portion to the arm portion. The arm portion comprises an underside surface and the extension arm portion comprises an underside surface, wherein in the stowed position the arm portion and the extension arm portion are folded together so that the underside surfaces face one another. 
     Embodiment 3 
     An exemplary extension table assembly for a power tool having a working surface for supporting a piece of material to be modified, and a working area where the power tool can modify (e.g., cut) a piece of material. The exemplary extension table assembly for a power tool comprising a frame portion, an arm portion, at least one drive system, and a measurement system. The frame portion comprising at least one power tool mount. The power tool mount configured for mounting the power tool there-on. The frame portion comprising at least one surface support for supporting the frame portion above a surface. The frame portion comprising at least one connector for connecting the frame portion to the arm portion. The arm portion comprising a distal end and a proximal end defining an arm portion length therebetween, wherein the proximal end connects with frame portion at the connector. The arm portion further comprising a support surface for supporting the piece of material to be modified, the support surface generally planar to the working surface, wherein a first guide channel is defined along the arm portion length, the first guide channel comprising a first rail, the movable carriage configured for moving along the first rail. The extension arm portion having a first end opposite a second end defining an extension arm portion length therebetween, the first end attaching to the distal end via an arm connector, the extension arm portion further comprises a second surface support for supporting the extension arm portion above the surface, the second surface support comprising a plurality of legs, wherein the legs are configured for extending between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein a second guide channel is defined along the extension arm portion length, the second guide channel comprising a second rail, the movable carriage configured for moving along the second rail, the second guide channel aligned with the first guide channel when the arm portion and the extension arm portion are in their use position, wherein the extension arm portion further comprising a second support surface for supporting the piece of material to be modified, the second support surface generally planar to the support surface when the arm portion and the extension arm portion are in their use position. The arm portion and the extension arm portion have a use position and a stowed position, wherein the arm connector comprises a hinge portion for hingedly connecting the extension arm portion to the arm portion, wherein the arm portion and the extension arm portion each comprises an underside surface, wherein in the stowed position the arm portion and the extension arm portion are folded together so that the underside surfaces face one another. The drive system comprising a movable carriage having an end stop, wherein the drive system further comprises a drive for driving the movable carriage along rail, wherein the drive comprises: a drive pulley on a drive shaft, a second pulley on a second shaft, a hand-wheel for turning the drive shaft, and a belt extending between the drive pulley and the second pulley, wherein the movable carriage is attached to the belt, wherein rotation of the hand-wheel in a first direction causes the movable carriage to advance along the rail in a first direction, and wherein rotation of the hand-wheel in a second direction causes the movable carriage to advance along the rail in a second direction. The measurement system comprises a rotary encoder on the drive shaft, the rotary encoder for sensing the relative position of the end stop relative to the working area and generating an end stop signal, wherein the measurement system further comprises a microprocessor and an alpha-numeric display device, wherein the microprocessor receives the end stop signal from the rotary encoder, wherein the microprocessor determines the distance from the end stop to the working area thereby computing the material length, wherein the microprocessor outputs a length signal corresponding to the material length, wherein the alpha-numeric display device receives the length signal from the microprocessor and provides an alpha-numeric representation of the material length. 
     Additional understanding of the devices and methods contemplated and/or claimed by the inventor(s) can be gained by reviewing the detailed description of exemplary devices and methods, presented below, and the referenced drawings. 
     Any suitable structure and/or material can be used for the components of an exemplary extension table assembly, and a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate structure and material for the components in a particular exemplary extension table assembly based on various considerations, including the intended use of the extension table assembly, the intended arena within which the extension table assembly will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the extension table assembly is intended to be used, among other considerations. For instance, the components of the extension table assembly could be made from aluminum or another metal, plastic (e.g., nylon, polyoxymethylene, fiberglass reinforced plastic, and the like. Further, arm portion and extension arm portion (if present) could be manufactured through any commonly used manufacturing method, including, but not limited to extruding and pultruding. 
     It is noted that all structure and features of the various described and illustrated exemplary extension table assemblies can be combined in any suitable configuration for inclusion in an extension table assembly according to a particular embodiment. 
     It is noted that all structure and features of the various described and illustrated embodiments can be combined in any suitable configuration for inclusion in an extension table assembly according to a particular embodiment. For example, an extension table assembly according a particular embodiment can include neither, one, or both of the arm portion and the extension arm portion described above. Furthermore, an extension table assembly according to a particular embodiment can include either the measurement system and the drive system described above in combination with neither, one, or both of the measurement system and drive system described above. 
     The foregoing detailed description provides exemplary embodiments of the invention and includes the best mode for practicing the invention. The description and illustration of these embodiments is intended only to provide examples of the invention, and not to limit the scope of the invention, or its protection, in any manner.