Field of the Disclosure

[0001] This disclosure relates to a spindle moulder and a method of adjusting a position of a spindle of the spindle moulder.

Background

[0002] A spindle moulder is a stationary woodworking machine in which a a rotating, vertically oriented, cutter is used to cut wood profiles into desired wooden elements, such as cupboard or window frame elements. The machining jobs may comprise edge shaping, end shaping, rebating and/or shaping curved parts, for example.

[0003] Generally, with reference to Figure 1, a spindle moulder 1 comprises a table and a vertical spindle 102 protruding above a planar tabletop 101 through an opening 103 in the tabletop 101.

[0004] The cutter tool, (not shown in Figure 1) is removably mounted on the spindle 102 by for example a securing device such as a retaining screw or chuck, and is vertically adjustable in height on the spindle 102 by at least one spacer 105.

[0005] A planar, vertical, fence 104 extends along a rear portion of the tabletop 101 and comprises a guide surface which is substantially perpendicular to the planar tabletop 101. Straight pieces of wood can be fed along the vertical, flat fence 104. The fence 104 is typically mounted on a fence support 104A, the fence support 104A being mounted on the tabletop 101.

[0006] Fence 104 can comprise a single component comprising a central gap where the cutter protrudes horizontally through the fence 104 to come into contact with the wood in use. Fence 104 can, as shown in Figure 104, comprise a pair of components 104B, 104C, each being a respective side of the spindle 102.

[0007] In order to achieve a particular height of machining, the spindle 102, and thus the cutter, is adjustable vertically by a height adjustment mechanism not shown, for example a hand wheel. For this purpose, a spindle-motor assembly is commonly mounted on a vertical slide such as a rail below the tabletop 101. [0008] To achieve a particular depth of machining in a horizontal direction, that is the depth of the wood profile in the horizontal direction substantially orthogonal to the fence surface, the horizontal position of the fence 104 can be adjusted relative to the upper surface of the tabletop 101.

[0009] For this purpose, typically a coarse adjustment and a fine adjustment of the position of the fence 104 can take place.

[0010] To provide a coarse adjustment of the fence 104, a coarse adjustment mechanism can be provided. Such a coarse adjustment mechanism may comprise one or more locking bolts 201 that usually screw into corresponding threaded holes in the tabletop 101 to clamp the fence support 104A down onto the table. The locking bolts 201 can be loosened, for example using a handle or other tool that engages the locking bolts 201, to allow the locking bolts 201 to slide in coarse adjustment slots 202 so as to allow the fence support 104A carrying the fence 104 to move back and forth. The coarse adjustment mechanism can allow a user to relatively quickly move the fence 104 to an approximate position using relatively large movements.

[0011] A fine adjustment mechanism of the fence 104 can also be provided. Such a fine adjustment mechanism can comprise one or more additional locking bolts 203 that can be loosened to allow the fence support 104A to move, and one or more fine adjustment knob 205 that can be rotated to make fine movements of the fence support 104A back and forth along a scaled slot 204, for example as shown in Figure 2. The fine adjustment mechanism can allow a user to more precisely move the fence 104, to a precise position on the tabletop 101, using relatively small movements.

[0012] In an example, the fence 104 comprises two fence components 104B, 104C on both sides of the opening 104 and correspondingly there is a coarse adjuster and a fine adjuster for each fence component 104B, 104C, namely are two locking bolts 201, two coarse adjustment slots 202, two locking bolts 203, two scaled slots 204 and two fine adjustment knobs 205.

[0013] It is desirable that the above vertical and/or horizontal adjustments can achieve a relatively high level of precision of positioning of the spindle 102/fence 104 on the tabletop 101, but also that adjustments can be made relatively quickly. Because the horizontal adjustment of the fence 104 involves loosening, for example, two locking bolts 203, making two individual adjustments and then retightening the two locking bolts 203, this con be tedious for the user, and not particularly quick, especially when there are a series of consecutive jobs each or some of which might require a different fence position. This adjustment is made even more difficult if the fence 104A comprises two separate fence components 10M-B, 104C.

[0014] It can be useful that the fence 104 is removable, since nonlinear jobs require a setup without the fence 104 which otherwise would be an obstacle to the curved wood profiles.

Object of the Invention

[0015] It is therefore an object of the disclosure to provide a spindle moulder, and/or a method of using a spindle moulder, which overcome or at least ameliorate one or more disadvantages of the prior art, or alternatively to at least provide the public with a useful choice.

[0016] Further objects of the disclosure will become apparent from the following description.

Summary of Invention

[0017] Accordingly in one aspect the disclosure may broadly be said to consist in a spindle moulder, comprising: a. a table comprising a planar tabletop, and an opening in the tabletop; b. a spindle block, comprising a rotatable spindle onto which a cutter can be mounted for rotation of the cutter relative to the table about an axis perpendicular to the tabletop, the spindle projecting through the opening; c. the spindle block, being movably mounted on the spindle moulder so as to be movable relative to the tabletop; d. a first adjustment device configured to move the spindle block relative to the tabletop such that the spindle can move perpendicularly relative to the tabletop; and e. a second adjustment device, configured to move the spindle block in a direction parallel with the tabletop.

[0018] In normal use, the axis perpendicular to the tabletop may be a vertical direction. In normal use, the direction parallel with the tabletop may be a horizontal direction. [0019] The spindle moulder may comprise a carrier configured to carry the spindle block, the carrier being movably mounted on the spindle moulder so as to be movable in a direction parallel with the tabletop.

[0020] The first adjustment device may be configured to drive the spindle block relative to the carrier such that the spindle can move perpendicularly relative to the tabletop.

[0021] The carrier may be mounted to an underside of the table, or at least underneath the tabletop.

[0022] The first adjustment device may comprise at least one electro-mechanical actuator to drive the spindle block along the carrier.

[0023] The second adjustment device may comprise at least one electro-mechanical actuator.

[0024] The carrier may comprise at least one elongate spindle mounting member on which the spindle block is movably mounted, the elongate spindle mounting member extending in a direction substantially parallel with the spindle axis. The elongate spindle mounting member may extend in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the planar tabletop. The elongate spindle mounting member may comprise a spindle block mounting rail. The rail is an elongate member along which the spindle block can move. The spindle block may be slidably mounted on the at least one spindle block mounting rail. An actuator can be provided to drive the spindle block along the rail. The spindle block may comprise a linear bearing mounted on the rail.

[0025] The elongate spindle mounting member may comprise a shaft. The shaft may be a threaded shaft, rotation of the shaft by the actuator driving the spindle block along the elongate spindle mounting member.

[0026] The spindle moulder may further comprise at least one elongate carrier mounting member, on which the carrier is movably mounted, the elongate carrier mounting member extending in a direction perpendicular to the spindle axis. The elongate carrier mounting member may extend in a direction parallel to the plane of the planar tabletop. Preferably, the at least one elongate carrier mounting member is mounted at one or each end onto a bracket which is mounted onto, and projects from, the underside of the tabletop. The elongate carrier mounting element may comprise a spindle block mounting rail. The carrier may be slidably mounted on the at least one carrier mounting rail. An actuator can be provided to drive the carrier along the rail. The carrier may comprise a linear bearing mounted on the rail.

[0027] The elongate carrier mounting element may comprise a shaft. The shaft may be a threaded shaft, rotation of the shaft by the actuator driving the carrier along the rail.

[0028] The first adjustment device may comprise a linear actuator to move the spindle block. The linear actuator may be mounted on the table or on the carrier. The linear actuator may be a mechanical actuator or an electro-mechanical actuator.

^^ Th e second adjustment device may comprise at least one linear actuator to move the carrier. The linear actuator may be mounted on the tabletop. The linear actuator may be a mechanical actuator or an electro-mechanical actuator.

[0030] The or each linear actuator may comprise a telescopic rod and corresponding connection means for rigidly connecting the telescopic rod of the linear actuator to the carrier or spindle block. The or each linear actuator may comprise a motor to drive the telescopic rod.

[0031] The second adjustment device may be mounted to the underside of the tabletop directly by a mount . The mount may comprise one or more brackets which is/are mounted onto, and project(s) from the underside of the table.

[0032] A spindle block biasing device may be provided, configured to bias the spindle block relative to the first adjustment device.

[0033] A carrier biasing device may be provided, configured to bias the carrier relative to the second adjustment device.

[0034] The or each biasing device may comprise a spring, such as a coil spring for example. The biasing device may be mounted on the rail for example.

[0035] The or each biasing device may be configured to help remove or resist any slack between the spindle block/carrier and the respective rail. [0036] Preferably, the actuator of the second adjustment device may be located below the carrier mounting rail.

[0037] Preferably one or both of the first and second adjustment devices comprise a position limiter to limit movement of the spindle block and carrier respectively.

[0038] Preferably, the second adjustment device further comprises a first position limiter, configured to limit movement of the spindle. The carrier biasing device may be located between the first position limiter and a second position limiter on the carrier at the retraction side. The first position limiter may be provided on the elongate carrier mounting element. The first position limiter may comprise a collar or other protrusion that projects outwardly from the elongate carrier mounting element.

[0039] Preferably, the first position limiter is mounted to the underside of the tabletop by being mounted midway on one elongate carrier mounting element and/or the carrier biasing device is fitted concentrically with the elongate carrier mounting element. Preferably, the carrier biasing device is configured to abut against the first position limiter and against a linear bearing as the second position limiter.

[0040] According to another aspect of the disclosure there is provided a method of adjusting a position of a spindle of a spindle moulder, the spindle moulder comprising: a. a table comprising a planar tabletop, and an opening in the tabletop; b. a spindle block, comprising a spindle onto which a cutter can be mounted for rotation of the cutter relative to the table about an axis perpendicular to the tabletop, the spindle projecting through the opening; c. is the spindle block being movably mounted on the spindle moulder so as to be movable in a direction parallel with the tabletop; d. a first adjustment device configured to move the spindle block relative to the tabletop such that the spindle can move perpendicularly relative to the tabletop; and e. a second adjustment device configured to move the spindle block in a direction parallel to the tabletop; f. wherein the method comprises the following steps: g. driving the spindle block using the first adjustment device in a direction perpendicular to the tabletop; and h. driving the spindle block using the second adjustment device, in a direction parallel to the tabletop.

[OOM-1] Preferably, the spindle moulder further comprises a planar fence on the tabletop, and the method further comprises making a coarse adjustment of the position of the fence on the tabletop, before moving the carrier using the second adjustment device.

[0042] According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a spindle position adjustment device, configured to be mounted on an existing spindle moulder. The spindle position adjustment device is configured to replace an existing spindle of the existing spindle moulder.

[0043] According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a spindle position adjustment device configured to be mounted on a spindle moulder comprising a planar tabletop, and an opening in the tabletop; the spindle position adjustment device comprising: a. a mount configured to mount the spindle position adjustment device on the spindle moulder; b. a spindle block, comprising a rotatable spindle onto which a cutter can be mounted for rotation of the cutter relative to the table about an axis perpendicular to the tabletop, the spindle projecting through the opening; c. a first adjustment device configured to move the spindle block relative to the table such that the spindle can move perpendicularly relative to the tabletop; and d. a second adjustment device, configured to move the spindle block in a direction parallel with the tabletop.

[0044] The mount may be configured to mount the spindle position adjustment device on the table.

[0045] The mount may be configured to removably mount the spindle position adjustment device on the spindle moulder.

[0046] The spindle position adjustment device may comprise any one or more of: a. a carriage on which the spindle block is mounted the carriage configured to move in a first direction; b. a carrier on which the carriage is mounted, the carrier configured to move in another direction; c. one or more actuators to move the spindle block; d. one or more guide rails or shafts on which the spindle block is mounted; and/or e. one or more motors, controller(s) and associated wiring and electrical connections to move the spindle block.

[0047] The spindle position adjustment device may therefore be configured to be retrofitted to existing spindle moulders.

[0048] Further aspects of the disclosure, which should be considered in all its novel aspects, will become apparent from the following description.

Drawing Description

[0049] A number of embodiments of the disclosure will now be described by way of example with reference to the drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a front view of a prior art spindle moulder;

Figure 2 is an enlarged top view of the spindle moulder of Figure 1, showing a horizontal adjustment of a fence of the spindle moulder;

Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view from the top of a spindle moulder according to the present disclosure with the arrows indicating various adjustments of the position of the spindle of the spindle moulder;

Figures 4A-4B are schematic perspective views from underneath of the spindle moulder of Figure 3 in different operating states; and Figures 4C-4D are enlarged views from underneath of a second adjustment device of the spindle moulder of Figures 4A-4B;

Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method of adjusting a position of a spindle in a spindle moulder according to the present disclosure; and

Figures 6A-6B are schematic perspective views of various positions of the spindle during horizontal adjustment using the second adjustment device.

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the spindle moulder of Figures 1-6, showing a user actuator.

Detailed Description of the Drawings

[0050] Throughout the description like reference numerals will be used to refer to like features in different embodiments.

[0051] In accordance with this disclosure a spindle moulder 400 comprises: a. a table comprising a planar tabletop 101 comprising an opening 103 in the table; b. a spindle block 402, comprising a rotatable spindle 102 onto which a cutter can be mounted for rotation of the cutter relative to the table about an axis perpendicular to the tabletop 101, the spindle 102 projecting through the opening 103; c. a carrier 401 configured to carry the spindle block 402 and attached to an underside 403 of the table, wherein the carrier 401 is movably mounted on the underside 403 of the table so as to be movable in a direction parallel with the tabletop 101; d. a first adjustment device, attached to the table and configured to drive the spindle block 402 relative to the carrier 401 such that the spindle 102 can move perpendicularly relative to the tabletop 101; and e. a second adjustment device 404, configured to drive the carrier 402 in a direction parallel with the tabletop 101.

[0052] A spindle 102 is typically rotatably mounted on a spindle block 402 with a motor, so that the spindle 102 is rotatable in use. A cutter (not shown) is removably or permanently mounted on the spindle 102. The spindle 102 does not need to be removed from the spindle block 403 frequently except for special situations such as replacement. In this sense, the spindle and the spindle block may form a permanent assembly.

[0053] In the present disclosure, a vertical direction is intended as a direction substantially orthogonal to the planar surface of the tabletop 103 and parallel with the axis of rotation of the spindle 102, and a horizontal direction as a direction substantially parallel with the planar surface of the tabletop 103 and perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the spindle 102.

[0054] With reference to Figure 3, in accordance with this disclosure, in order to achieve a desired height and depth of machining a wood profile, adjustment before beginning machining the wood profile may comprise a coarse adjustment 301 of the fence 104, a vertical adjustment 302 of the spindle block 402 and/or a horizontal adjustment 303 of the spindle block. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these types and may comprise angled adjustment based on similar structures and operations described hereinafter. [0055] Figures 4A-4B shows schematically a spindle moulder 400 in different operating states in accordance with this disclosure. As seen in Figures 4A-4B, the spindle moulder 400 primarily comprises: a table comprising a planar tabletop 101 comprising an opening 103; a spindle block 402, comprising a spindle 102 and a mounting for receiving the spindle 102 and mounting the spindle 102 in the spindle block; and a carrier 401, for carrying the spindle block 402 and attached to an underside 403 of the tabletop 101.

[0056] The carrier 401 may be configured to be immobilized vertically relative to the underside 403 of tabletop 101, and to be movable horizontally.

[0057] A first adjustment device 404A s located behind the spindle block 402, attached to the tabletop 101 and configured to drive the spindle block 402 vertically along the carrier 401 such that the spindle 102 can move vertically through the opening 103 in the tabletop 101.

[0058] A second adjustment device 404B is mounted under the tabletop 101 and configured to move the carrier 401 in a horizontal direction 303.

[0059] Figure 4A shows schematically the spindle block 402 in a lower position in which the spindle block 402 is relatively low relative to the tabletop 101, and the spindle 102 does not project far through the opening, and in a horizontal position at or near one end of the horizontal stroke of movement of the carrier 401 relative to tabletop 101.

[0060] Figure 4B shows schematically the spindle block 402 in a higher position in which the spindle block 402 is relatively high relative to the tabletop 101, and the spindle 102 projects through the opening, and in a horizontal position at or near the other end of the horizontal stroke of movement of the carrier 401 relative to tabletop 101.

[0061] The carrier 401 comprises at least one elongate spindle mounting element 405, such as a shaft, rail or groove on which the spindle block 402 is movably mounted. In Figures 4A and 4B, there are two rails 405 on which the spindle block 402 is slidably mounted, for example via at least one linear bearing. Preferably, the spindle block 402 is slidably mounted on the rails or shafts 405 by being mounted onto a carriage 406 which is slidably mounted on the vertical rails or shafts 405, the carriage 506 therefore being movably mounted on the carrier 401. In this way, the carrier 401 can accommodate different types and sizes of spindle blocks.

[0062] In accordance with this disclosure, the spindle moulder 400 further comprises at least one elongate carrier mounting member 413, such as a horizontal rail or shaft 13 mounted to the underside 403 of the tabletop 101, and the carrier 401 is slidably mounted on the at least one horizontal slide 413.

[0063] The at least one horizontal rail or shaft 413 is mounted at each end onto a hanging bracket 407 which is mounted onto the underside 403 of the tabletop 101. In this way, it is convenient to replace and/or repair the rail or shaft 413. Alternatively, the at least one horizontal rail or shaft 413 can be bent at each end and is mounted directly onto the underside 403 of the tabletop 101 at the bent end.

[0064] Preferably, the carrier 401 is slidably mounted on the at least one horizontal shaft 413 by at least one linear bearing 414 mounted onto the carrier 401. The linear bearing 414 can support a load of the carrier 401 during its single-axis linear movement and provides a low friction sliding surface for the rail or shaft 413. The carrier 401 may be slidably mounted on the at least one horizontal rail or shaft 413, for example by being hung directly on the slide 413 via curved or bent edges of the carrier 401 that are curved or bent over and around the rail or shaft 413.

[0065] The first adjustment device 404A may be mounted onto the table directly or by being mounted onto the carrier 401. In the case of being mounted onto the carrier 401, the first adjustment device 403 may be located behind the spindle block 402 so as to be compact and less bulky. The first adjustment device 403 may comprise at least one leadscrew, ball screw or linear actuator.

[0066] Each of the first and second adjustment devices 404A, 404B may comprise one or more linear actuators. Each linear actuator is configured to create motion in a straight line from a given input, and may be a pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical or electro-mechanical actuator comprising a user input device such as a control handle, one or more buttons, a touchscreen controller, or a joystick, means to convert the input from the input device into linear motion (such as a gearbox and/or a threaded nut), a movable linear element such as aa telescopic rod, and/or means to limit movement in one or both directions, such as one or more limit switches. [0067] A user operates the linear actuator via the user input device, being a manual user input device such as a rotatable handle, wheel or knob. The rotation is converted into a linear displacement of the rod via engagement of the rod with the nut and/or gearbox to which the handle is attached. The rod is configured to be extending in the vertical direction, mounted onto and thus drive the spindle block 402 along the at least one vertical slide 405 as the rod moves vertically, such that the spindle 102 can protrude vertically above the tabletop 403 through the opening 103 or retract. The limit switches are configured to change the electric states of an indicator indicative of end of course once the rod contacts an operating element of each limit switch. Preferably, the limit switches are located at the top and bottom limits within the linear actuator and are triggered by the up and down movement of the rod so as to define a stroke of the linear actuator. Typically, the stroke may range from 50mm to 300mm.

[0068] Alternatively, the linear actuator may be an electro-mechanical actuator which is similar to the mechanical actuator except that the control handle is replaced with an electric motor, for example a DC motor or a step motor, and the limit switches are configured to change the electric states of the motor so as to define the stroke.

[0069] Consequently, one or both adjustment devices 404A, 404B may be motorised, in that the movement of the spindle block 402 is driven by one or more motors, the motors being controlled via a user input from a user input device which sends a control signal that is received by a controller to actuate the one or more motors.

[0070] With reference to Figure 7, a user input device 501 is provided, which in this example comprises a joystick that can be moved by the user, movement of the joystick controlling movement of the spindle block 402.

[0071] In this example, the joystick 501 projects from a side of a housing of the spindle moulder 400. The joystick 501 can be moved in four directions, as indicated by the Z and y axes shown in Figure 7, the directions of movement of the joystick 501 corresponding to the directions of movement of the spindle block 402. Consequently, the user can move the joystick 501 up or down vertically, with a resulting corresponding vertical movement of the spindle block 402, and forward or rearward horizontally, with a resulting corresponding horizontal movement of the spindle block 402.

[0072] Although not shown, a display or position meter may also be provided, to indicate the position of the spindle block 402 relative to a datum. For example, a coarse adjustment can be made, and a datum position of the spindle block 402 displayed. A fine adjustment of the spindle block 402 can be made, and then the display can indicate the position the spindle block 402 relative to the datum during and after the fine adjustment. The vertical position of, for example, the distal end of the spindle block 402 from the table top 101 , can be displayed on the display device.

[0073] Alternatively, one or both adjustment devices 404A, 404B may be manual.

[0074] Alternatively, the linear actuator may comprise one or more other types of actuators suitable for this application, such as hydraulic or pneumatic actuators.

[0075] The linear actuator may be selected to have sufficient static load capacity so that it can support the spindle block 402 stably and drive it vertically even without the vertical rail or shaft 405 on the carrier 401. There may be provided more than one, and preferably two, linear actuators to help make the vertical adjustment of the position of the spindle block 402 smooth and stable.

[0076] The second adjustment device 404B comprises at least one actuator 408, for example a motorised electro-mechanical linear actuator with a telescopic rod 409 that is driven by a motor and gearbox 409A. A connector 410 is provided to rigidly connect the distal end of the telescopic rod 409 of the actuator 408 to the carrier 401.

[0077] Figures 4C-4D are enlarged views of the second adjustment device 404B of Figures 4A-4B. The connector 410 may be in the form of a metal connection rod, a bolt, a screw or the like. The second adjustment device 404B may be mounted directly to the table, preferably the underside 403 of the tabletop 101 by any suitable means such that its rod 409 is parallel to the horizontal direction 303. Thus the actuator 408, via connector 410 is configured to move the carrier 401 parallel to the linear displacement of the telescopic rod 409.

[0078] Preferably, at an end different from that connected to the connector 410, the second adjustment device 404 is mounted onto the hanging bracket 407 which is mounted onto the underside 403 of the tabletop 101. In this way, it is convenient to replace and/or repair the electro-mechanical actuator 408 and align the actuator 408 with the horizontal slide 413 in a compact manner. [0079] In Figures 40-40, the second adjustment device 404B comprises one electromechanical actuator 408, and the rod 409 thereof is configured to drive the carrier 401 along two horizontal rails or shafts 413 via the associated connectors 410.

[0080] The electro-mechanical actuator 408 and the associated connectors 410 are located lower than the horizontal rail or shaft 413. This is not limiting and at least one of them can be partially or completely located higher than the horizontal rail or shaft 413.

[0081] Alternatively, there can be provided more than two electro-mechanical actuators 408 located on opposite sides or the same side of the carrier 401. In the way, the horizontal rail(s) or shaft(s) 413 can even be omitted because the multiple actuators 408 can support and drive the carrier 401 horizontally and stably without additional support from the rail(s) or shaft(s) 413.

[0082] The connector 410 may comprise a bolt or pin that penetrates though a hole arranged at the top part of the rod 409 of the electro-mechanical actuator 408, and is secured in position for example by an interference fit, or via one or more nuts and washers.

[0083] With reference to Figures 4C-4D, the connector 410 extends through a hole arranged on at least one side panel of the carrier 401, for example via interference fit. Alternatively, the connector 410 can be configured to extend through opposite side panels of the carrier 401 such that the connector 410 provides sufficient support for the carrier 401 and there can be provided only one or no horizontal slide 413.

[0084] Preferably, the connector 401 is further secured at each side of the side panel with a nut and/or a washer so as to reduce any loosening during horizontal adjustment.

[0085] A biasing device such as a spring 412 may be provided to bias the carrier 401 in a given horizontal direction. The biasing device may be configured to bias the carrier 401 against any force applied by the actuator 408. The biasing device may be located along the horizontal direction 303 between the first position limiter 411 and the carrier 401 at a retraction side (right side in Figure 4C) in view of the horizontal movement of the rod 409. The spring 412 may be a coil spring. [0086] The second adjustment device M-OM-B may comprise a first position limiter 411 to limit horizontal movement of the carrier 401.

[0087] The position limiter 411 may comprise a collar or baffle mounted to limit horizontal movement of the carrier 401 in a first direction, and the biasing device 412 to limit horizontal movement of the carrier 401 in an opposite direction.

[0088] The first position limiter 411 mounted and/or the spring 412 may be located on one horizontal rail or shaft 413 or located outside the horizontal slide for example by a separate horizontal shaft. The position limiter 411 may comprise a collar, or other protrusion projecting outwardly from the rail or shaft 413.

[0089] Preferably, the first position limiter 411 is mounted midway along one horizontal rail or shaft 413 and/or the spring 412 is fitted concentrically with the horizontal rail or shaft 413.

[0090] Preferably, the spring 412 is configured to abut at one end against the first position limiter 411 and at the other end against a linear bearing 414 as a second position limiter mounted onto the carrier 401.

[0091] In Figures 4C-4D, there are two horizontal rails or shafts 413 located on two opposite sides of the opening 103 and there are provided two linear bearings on each of the horizontal rails or shafts 413.

[0092] The spring 412 may be configured to abut against one linear bearing at the retraction side or an extension side (the left side in Figure 4C). Preferably, the spring 412 is in a normal state or slightly compressed state at an initial position of the rod 409, that is, without any extension operation of the rod 409. The setting in figures 4C-4D is only illustrative and not intended to be limiting.

[0093] As shown from Figure 4C to Figure 4D, in an extension operation of the actuator 408, the telescopic rod 409 exerts a force horizontally to the carrier 401 via the connection means 410 and as the carrier 401 extends further, the linear bearing compresses the spring 412 against its reaction force toward the baffle 411. In a retraction operation of the actuator 408 from Figure 4D to Figure 4C, the telescopic rod 409 exerts a force to the carrier 401 horizontally via the connection means 410 and as the carrier 401 retracts back, the spring 412 will restore to its initial state. The reaction force of the spring 412 can take out any play or backlash in the actuator 408, such as in the gearbox, particularly in the retraction operation, such that the horizontal movement of the carrier 401 is more stable and smoother.

[0094] Although the position limiter 411 and the spring 412 are described with respect to the horizontal adjustment, they can be applied to the vertical adjustment in a similar manner, that is, one or more position limiters and/or springs can be provided on the first adjustment device 404A.

[0095] In the above embodiments, the carriage 406 is mounted on carrier 401 to provide a relatively compact spindle position adjustment device, that can provide adjustment of the position of the spindle block 402 in both the vertical and horizontal directions, resulting in less components, and a less cumbersome or complex structure.

[0096] The actuators used in the first adjustment device 404A and the second adjustment device 404B may be the same or similar type and thus wiring for these actuators can be combined. Moreover, it is not practical to motorize the horizontal adjustment of the fence 104 as this would add significant complexity, weight and wiring that needs to be disconnected (when the fence 104 is removed for particular jobs). In the present disclosure, because the spindle 102 is typically a permanent fixture in the spindle moulder 400, even if the fence 104 needs to be removed for non-linear machining, there is also no need to be able to disconnect the wiring for these actuators.

[0097] As noted above, the spindle moulder 400 may further comprise: an input device, configured to receive a user input including at least desired amount of vertical or horizontal displacement of the spindle 102; a controller, configured to control the first and second adjustment devices according to the user input and receive displacement signals from the first and second adjustment devices; and a display, configured to display the signals to a user so as to facilitate the user in operation.

[0098] A method 500 according to this disclosure of adjusting a position of a spindle in a spindle moulder will be described with reference to Figure 5. The spindle moulder 100 is the same as that described above with reference to Figures 1-4. The order of the steps in the method 500 are not intended to be limiting. [0099] According to Figure 5, in step 501, the spindle block is adjusted vertically. Step 501 may be carried out by the first adjustment device 404A. As can be seen from Figure 4A to Figure 46, the spindle block 402 is adjusted to the desired height vertically.

[0100] In step 502, a position of the fence 104 is coarsely adjusted in the horizontal direction 303 substantially orthogonal to the fence surface, i.e. parallel to the planar tabletop 101. Step 502 is optional and is carried out to provide a coarse adjustment of the position of the fence 104, for example, by loosening the two locking bolts 201 and sliding them in coarse adjustment slots 202 as shown in Figure 2. Step 502 may be carried out before step 501 or between step 501 and step 503. Preferably, Step 502 further comprises a sub step being a test operation in which a test piece of wood is machined and measured to determine the horizontal position of the spindle 102 relative to the fence 104, and consequently whether any further adjustment of the relative horizontal position is required.

[0101] In step 503, fine adjustment of the horizontal position of the spindle 102 is made, if necessary. This fine adjustment is made by moving the carrier 401 in the horizontal direction 303. Step 503 may be carried out by the second adjustment device 404B. By the adjustment as shown from the configuration in Figure 4C to the configuration in Figure 4D, the spindle block 402 and thus the spindle is adjusted from an initial position (which is also shown in Figure 6A), to the desired position horizontally (which is also shown in Figure 6B).

[0102] From the foregoing it can be seen that a spindle moulder and method are provided in which the position of the spindle relative to the table top and the fence can be adjusted both in a vertical direction and also in a horizontal direction, that can achieve a high level of precision, but also that adjustments can be made quickly, particularly when there are a series of consecutive jobs and/or when the fence needs to be removed intermittently.

[0103] In accordance with this disclosure, both the adjustment of the vertical position and the fine adjustment of horizontal position, of the spindle 102 relative to the fence 104 and to the tabletop 101 may be via movement of the spindle 102 itself, rather than needing to adjust the position of both the spindle and the fine adjustment of the fence 14. Consequently, a coarse adjustment of the position of the fence 104 can be quickly made, and then all subsequent fine adjustments are made by moving only the spindle 102 [0104] The position of the spindle 102 relative to the tabletop 101 and/or to the fence 104 can be made about two different degrees of freedom, that is along two different directions of motion of the spindle 102. The directions of motion are substantially perpendicular, and in use, comprise a vertical direction and a horizontal direction.

[0105] In an example, the diameter of the spindle 102 may be around 30 millimetres.

[0106] The fine adjustment of the position of the spindle 102 in the horizontal direction in accordance with this disclosure, may be around 30mm.

[0107] The spindle 102 turns typically at speeds of between 3,000 and 20,000 rpm in use.

[0108] In the above embodiments, the carriage 406 is mounted on carrier 401 to provide a relatively compact spindle position adjustment device, that can provide adjustment of the position of the spindle block 402 in both the vertical and horizontal directions, resulting in less components, and a less cumbersome or complex structure. The single spindle position adjustment device comprises all of the substantive components necessary to be able to adjust the position of the spindle block 402, namely the carriage 406, carrier 401 actuators, guide rials or shafts, motors, controller(s) and associated wiring and electrical connections. Consequently, the single spindle position adjustment device may comprise a single power cable that needs to be connected to a power source for the spindle position adjustment device to be operational. Consequently, set-up time and complexity is relatively short, simple and safe, in that the user only has to make one electrical connection.

[0109] The spindle position adjustment device, comprising the carriage 406, carrier 401 actuators, guide rials or shafts, motors, controller(s) and associated wiring and electrical connections may be provided as a separate device that can be retrofitted to existing spindle moulders. For example, the spindle and motor or an existing spindle moulder can be removed, and the spindle position adjustment device then mounted onto the underside of the table of the existing spindle moulder. With reference to Figure 4b, the spindle position adjustment device can be mounted by bolting the mounting brackets of carrier 401 onto the underside of the table. The spindle position adjustment device can then be plugged into a power source, and can then be used as described above. Consequently, only a single electrical connection is required to mount, and demount the spindle position adjustment device from an existing spindle moulder.

[0110] In another example, the spindle moulder 400 may be used with a router. A router generally comprises a replaceable router bit mounted on a collet spun by a motor at high speed and further comprises an adjustment means for adjusting the depth of the router bit. High-speed rotation of the router bit can also machine wood profiles.

[0111] It has been proposed to provide a router table on which a router can be mounted, with the router upside down underneath the table with the router bit projecting vertically upwardly through an aperture in the router table so that the router bit can extend or retract through the hole on the router table only in a direction substantially orthogonal to the tabletop and parallel to an axis of rotation of the router bit.

[0112] Compared with a spindle block, the router bit is relatively cheap and can be replaced flexibly. However, in order to adjust the router bit up and down, a user needs to get under the router table and manipulate the adjustment means of the router from under the table. Further adjustment of the vertical position of the router bit relative to the remainder of the router is typically relatively crude. Consequently, typically the position of the router but may need to be adjusted several times and thus it is difficult to arrive at precise height. Moreover, since the router is mounted onto the router table, the router bit cannot move in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the router bit.

[0113] one or more of these problems can be overcome by the present disclosure by replacing the spindle block 402 with a router which is configured to be received by the carrier 401 in a similar manner to the spindle block 402 such that the router can be moved in a direction parallel to the axis of the router bit, and also moved in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the router bit.

[0114] The carrier 401 carries the router in a similar manner to the spindle block 402 described above, such that the router bit can extend in use through the opening 103 in the tabletop 403 of the spindle moulder 400. [0115] Consequently, a spindle moulder table, fence, and spindle position adjustment device can be provided as described above, on which a router rather than a spindle block can be mounted. The carrier 401, and/or carriage 406 can be modified to include mounting componentry configured to mount the router on the carriage 406.

[0116] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.

[0117] Although this disclosure has been described by way of example and with reference to possible embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that modifications or improvements may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The disclosure may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements, features, steps or examples. Unless contrary to the physical principle, these parts, elements, features or examples could be selected arbitrarily although not all combination are exhaustively described. Furthermore, where reference has been made to specific components or integers of the disclosure having known equivalents, then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

[0118] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.