Toolbox with Bench Vise Jaws Converting to Table Saw Fence

Patent & Production

At a glance

What the claims cover, in plain language

Claim 1 - a toolbox comprising a box body (1) and case lid (2). The top has a detachable work table top (4) with a tool layer below holding a cutting tool. The cutting blade (8) penetrates a hole in the table to form a table saw. One corner has a bench clamp with fixed (9) and movable (11) bodies, each with a detachable clamp claw (7) higher than the table surface. Removing the fixed body’s claw allows it to mate with the movable body’s claw to form a backer for saw cutting. The bodies connect via vertical sliding grooves and rails, keeping top surfaces flush with the table.

Claim 2 - the sliding connections use dovetail grooves and rails. Claim 3 - horizontal chutes allow lateral movement of claws. Claim 4 - an angle-adjustable baffle (10) fits into the table for angled cutting. Claim 5 - a shallow groove runs front-to-back for the baffle. Claims 6-8 - details on lid structure, handles, and an iron felt surface for hammering.

This is a simplified reading for orientation only. The legal scope is defined by the exact claim wording in the official Chinese document.

What this means for US production

This patent was filed in China and has lapsed due to non-payment of annual fees, so it no longer restricts anyone in China either. The public record shows no US or other foreign counterpart.

Two points to settle early:

• Other patents may exist. Robert Bosch GmbH holds later US/foreign patents citing this field, including US12708996B2 and US20260061588A1. A freedom-to-operate (FTO) review is needed before tooling to ensure no conflict with active Bosch patents or other existing IP in multi-function workshop tools.
• Safety standards. Table saw mechanisms trigger strict regulatory scrutiny; design must prioritize blade guarding and kickback prevention beyond the patent description.

Customization and manufacturing

What can be customized

Things to plan for (US market)

• CPSC 16 CFR 1203 / ANSI Z133.1 - While not a handheld power tool, if sold as a kit with a motorized saw, it falls under power tool safety standards regarding guards and emergency stops.
• UL Listing - If the box includes electrical components for the saw, UL certification is required.
• California Prop 65 - Screening for lead, cadmium, or phthalates in plastics and coatings.

How a project runs

1. Inquiry - Define target load capacity, blade compatibility, and folding mechanism requirements.
2. Design - CAD modeling of dovetail sliders and claw mating interfaces; stress analysis on table top.
3. Prototype - Machined or off-the-shelf blade samples; 3D-printed handle prototypes; heat-treatment trial coupons for steel parts.
4. Pilot run - Assembly tests for smooth sliding action; durability testing of snap-fit claws.
5. Production - Stamping dies for rails; injection molds for nylon parts; final assembly with rivets and screws.

Quantities & timeline

Tooling costs depend heavily on the number of stamping dies for the steel rails and the complexity of the dovetail machining. Injection molding for the nylon claws and handles requires precision molds. Surface finish application adds cycle time. Send us your material preferences, blade specs, quantity, and target price and we will reply with options.

Production notes

Tooling and process

Likely involves stamped steel for the sliding rails and fixed bodies, requiring multiple progressive dies. Glass-filled nylon injection molding is typically used for the detachable claws and handles to balance strength and weight. Machining may be necessary for the dovetail interfaces if tolerances are tight.

Cost drivers

Number of stamping dies significantly impacts upfront cost. Material and heat treatment for the steel components add expense, especially if edge hardness is critical for wear resistance. Assembly steps involving snap-fits and rivets increase labor time. Actual costs typically depend on final materials, order volume, and supplier quotes.

Prototyping path

Start with a 3D-printed handle to verify ergonomics. Use machined or off-the-shelf blades for initial fit checks. Produce heat-treatment trial coupons to validate steel hardness before committing to full tooling. Build a functional sample to test the claw-to-fence conversion mechanism. The exact sequence depends on the final design and supplier feedback.

What we would change before tooling

We would likely simplify the vertical sliding mechanism if friction becomes an issue, perhaps using a bushing system instead of direct metal-on-metal contact. Ensuring the iron felt surface is securely bonded to the table top is also a priority to prevent delamination.

Common failure points

Edge hardness below spec could cause rapid wear on the sliding rails. Pivot pin wear might loosen the movable clamp over time. Handle creep under load is a risk if plastic thickness is insufficient. Spring-back or kickback issues must be addressed in the saw configuration design.

Patent drawings

Drawings reproduced from the public patent document for reference.

Frequently asked questions

How does the vise turn into a saw fence?

The bench vise has two clamp bodies with detachable claws. You remove the claw from the fixed body and attach it to the movable body. Together, they form a long, straight backer that guides material against the table saw blade.

Is the table saw motor included?

The patent describes the mechanical structure and the blade hole. It does not specify the motor. In practice, you would need to confirm if the design supports a specific motor mount or if it uses an external handheld saw inserted into the slot.

Can I use it for heavy lumber?

The patent focuses on a compact, multi-function design. Load capacities are not specified. For heavy industrial lumber, dedicated stationary saws with larger fences are more suitable. This design is likely intended for light-to-medium DIY tasks.

What materials are used?

The patent mentions steel for the clamp bodies and rails. Handles and claws could be made from durable plastics like glass-filled nylon. Final material choices depend on the production design and safety requirements.

Is it safe to use as a table saw?

Any table saw configuration requires strict safety measures. The patent describes a mechanical fence but does not detail electronic guards or emergency stops. You must add appropriate blade guards and follow local safety regulations for power tools.

Does it fold up for storage?

Yes, the work table top is detachable, and the tools fit into a layer below it. The box acts as a container for the entire setup, making it portable.

Can this design be made and sold in the US?

The patent was filed in China and has lapsed due to non-payment of annual fees. The public record shows no US counterpart, so it does not restrict the design in the US. However, other patents (such as those held by Robert Bosch GmbH) may apply, so a freedom-to-operate check is recommended.

Are you affiliated with the patent owner?

No. IP2M is an independent design and manufacturing service working from the public patent document.

Request a quote

Click Request a Quote below to see our email address - copy it, or open your email app with a ready-made message. Please mention patent CN108453685B in the subject.

Helpful details to include:

• Your company and channel (tool brand, workshop supplier, educational distributor)
• Target load class and dimensions
• Material preferences (steel, aluminum, plastic types)
• Motor compatibility needs (if applicable)
• Estimated quantity and target price
• Timeline - when you would like samples and the first shipment

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