IE20050702U1 - Cutting tool - Google Patents

Abstract

ABSTRACT A tool suitable for inscribing and removing a portion of a wooden member, comprising: a support member (2), first and second blades (10,20) extending substantially perpendicularly from the support member (2) in spaced apart parallel relationship, a third blade (30) extending between opposite lateral ends of the first and second blades (1020), cutting edges (11,21,31) on the blades (10,20,30), which between them define the outline of the portion of wood to be inscribed and removed, a first control means to control the depth of cut of the third blade (30) when the tool is used to cut away the inscribed portion, wherein the first and second cutting blads (l0,20) have a cutting width (21) which is substantially equal to the maximum depth of cut (8) of the third blade (30).

Description

Title Cutting Tool Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to hand tools and particularly to carpentry tools, such as die cutters and punch-out tools for use in preparing the edges of doors and doorjambs for fittings, creating recesses for joinery, and particularly for preparing recesses for hinge fittings and the like.

Backqround to the Invention There are currently a number of different methods commonly used to prepare recesses in doors and doorjambs for the flush attachment of fixings such as hinges, locks and the like. The most basic of these methods involves initially scoring the outline of the area to be recessed with a knife or chisel bit (typically a rectangular shaped area), after which the wood of the area to be recessed is usually removed bit by bit with a chisel. The chiselling process is time consuming, often taking as long as ten to twenty minutes to chisel out a straight- edged recess of the correct uniform depth. In addition, the knife can sometimes follow the wood grain causing damage to the surrounding wood.

US20021123S4 provides a means to overcome the dangers of stray and speed—up the manual process. US2002112354 provides a door mechanism punch-out apparatus for preparing recesses in doors and door jambs to accommodate flush installation of door hardware (latches, strikes, and hinges) into doors and door jambs. The door mechanism punch-out apparatus comprises a plate, a bar, and a blade. The bar is fixedly connected to the plate, perpendicularly extending from the plate in one direction. For preparing a strike or hinge recess in a doorjamb, the blade of the apparatus exists along the perimeter of the plate, perpendicularly extending from the plate in a direction opposite that of the bar. In use, the plate is placed over the area to be recessed and the par is punched or hammered briskly to indent the correct area of the wood. The scribed area must then be chiselled in the normal fashion. For some woods, the scribed area will detach from the wood when the punch is removed, but this carries with it the danger that the depth of the area removed will be uneven.

A more modern approach to the task is the use of a router and jig assembly, most em is placed OPEH T0 PEN" of which req9ire..s?!ssl:i¢i:y~‘The Jig ss over the wood. The router then removes the wood to the predetermined depth according to the template. While using routers and jigs can minimise the danger of damaging the surrounding wood, the procedure can be time consuming. The current trend in the field is for the further development of routers and jigs. While these may have applications to large scale operations, they can be expensive, bulky and time consuming.

For the above reasons, there still exists an unmet need to provide a simple and efficient tool that can quickly remove the precise amount of wood to create an even indentation for flush attaching of a door fitting, such as a hinge or lock.

Object of the Invention It is an object of the invention to provide a tool suitable for inscribing and cutting out a hinge recess from a door frame simply and relatively quickly. The present invention provides a tool suitable for removing a portion (a piece/divot) of wood of defined size and shape from the edge of a piece of wood. It is a further object of the invention to provide a hand tool that can quickly and accurately prepare a recess of defined size and shape in the edge of a piece of wood.

It is also an object of the invention to provide a tool that can inscribe the outline of a recess along the edge of a piece of wood, make the necessary incision cuts in the piece of wood and thereby define the shape of the recess, and additionally remove the mass portion with a single additional movement. It is also an object of the invention to provide a tool that ensures a uniform shaped portion of wood is removed. It is a further object of the invention to provide blades for use with the tools of the invention.

It is also an object of the invention to provide a tool that can be operated by a drill- bit, or electrically operated that provides some of the above advantages.

Summary of the Invention In one aspect, the present invention provides a tool suitable for inscribing and removing a portion of a wooden member (and/or suitable for inscribing and cutting out a hinge recess from a door frame) comprising: a body (support member) (attachable to) first and second blades extendable substantially perpendicularly from the body in spaced apart parallel relationship, the length of the cutting edges of the first and second blades defining a cut-width, 'E05O7og a third blade extendable between opposite lateral ends of the first and second ‘blades, (the first, second and third blades) thereby forming a substantially U-shaped inscribing blade; and further comprising a first control means positionable such that the distance the third blade can penetrate through a piece of wood along the longitudinal axis of the third blade may be limited by the first control means, said distance defining a removing-cut length, characterised in that the cut-width is substantially equal to the removing-cut length.

This general embodiment and further embodiments thereof may be termed the 3- blade version. In the 3-blade versions, the third blade acts as a removing blade to remove the portion of wood in the inscribed recess. Preferably, the first control means is a removing stop. Further preferably, the removing stop is extendable tangentially to one or more of the first, second and third blades.

In an alternative embodiment, the present invention provides a tool suitable for inscribing and cutting out a hinge recess from a door frame, the tool comprising a first and second blade attachable to a body, the first and second blades disposed substantially parallel to each other and extending substantially perpendicularly away from the body in the same direction, the length of the cutting edges of the first and second blades defining a cut-width, at least one laterally opposite end of the first and second blades connectable by a third blade, the first, second and third blades thereby forming a substantially U—shaped inscribing blade; the first and second blades each further comprising a second cutting edge, said second cutting edges defining a fourth and fifth blade respectively, with at least one laterally opposite end of the fourth and fifth blades connectable by a sixth blade, thereby forming a substantially U-shaped removing blade, and further comprising at least one removing stop positionable such that the distance the sixth blade can penetrate through a piece of wood along the longitudinal axis of the sixth blade may be limited by the removing stop, said distance defining a removing-cut length, characterised in that the cut width is substantially equal to the removing-cut length.

IE 0 This general embodiment and further embodiments thereof may be termed the 6- blade version. In further embodiments of the 6-blade version, the sixth blade may extend from the body. The sixth blade acts as a removing blade to remove the portion of wood in the inscribed recess.

The following summary refers to all embodiments where technically feasible, except where expressly indicated not to apply to particular embodiments.

In use, the user places the tool at the edge of a piece of wood, such as a doorjamb, with the free ends of the first and second blades at the edge of the wood and perpendicular to the edge, thus, the substantially U—shaped inscribing blade will outline a substantially U- shape at the edge of the piece of wood. The user then presses or punches the tool into the wood (e.g., using a mallet) up to the required depth to create the necessary first incision outlining the portion of wood to be removed. Depending on the thickness of the blade, and the angle of the bevel of the blade, the inscribing blade may be naturally disposed to penetrate to the depth of the beveling with relative ease, and to require increased effort to drive the inscribing blade into the wood beyond that depth. In alternative embodiments, the inscribing blade may easily penetrate the wood beyond the depth of the bevel, in which case the user may either exercise judgment in deciding when to stop the inscribing process, or the user may additionally utilise an inscribing stop to control the depth of penetration of the inscribing blade (see below). Of course, the nature of the wood and of the material of the blades themselves will also dictate to an extent how easily and how deeply the inscribing blade penetrates the wood.

The tool is then removed and the removing blade (the third blade in the 3—blade versions and the sixth blade in the 6-blade versions) is placed against the wood such that the two ends of the removing blade are in contact with the deepest inscribed points made by the ends of the first and second blades respectively, at the edge of the wood. The user then drives the removing blade into the wood up to the point permitted by the removing stop, thereby removing the portion of wood in the inscribed recess as a single piece. The advantage of having the cut-width substantially equal to the removing-cut length (the maximum distance the third blade can penetrate the wood) is that the removing blade penetrates the wood substantially the correct distance required to ensure a clean cut. In preferred embodiments, the user of the 3—blade versions may then rotate the tool 90° after making the inscribing cut to place the third blade against the edge of the wood perpendicular to the position of the tool when making the inscribing cut. In preferable embodiments of the 6-blade version, the removing blade will be substantially perpendicular to the inscribing blade, requiring the user to rotate the tool 180° after making the inscribing cut to place the removing blade against the edge of the wood.

If the removing-cut length is shorter than the cut width, and the full length of the cutting edge of the first or second blades is inscribed into the wood, the removing blade will be too short to reach the full extent of the inscribed recess and a second cut of the removing blade will be required after removing a first portion of the recess material. If the removing blade is longer than the cut-width, there is a danger that the removing blade will penetrate the wood beyond the cuts made by the inscribing blade. However, in alternative embodiments of the invention, the removing-cut length may be substantially greater than the cut-width whilst in further alternative embodiments, the removing-cut length may be substantially less than the cut width. Such embodiments may be desirable in conjunction with other novel features of the invention, such as the inscribing stop, interior blades(s), 6- blade versions, removing guide, drill bit attachment and so on. In particular, embodiments where the cut width is substantially greater or lesser than the length of the removing blade may be suitable for use with the embodiments wherein the tool is mounted within a housing, either for spring biased activation, drill bit activation or electrical activation, as described below.

The longitudinal axis of a blade extends through the cutting edge of that blade to the body. The blades are formed with straight cutting edges. Preferably, each blade is substantially planar. Preferably, the blades are attachable to the body and disposed substantially parallel to each other and each blade extends substantially perpendicular away from the body in the same direction. The body may further comprise one or more end-walls and side-walls upon which the blades are attachable. The one or more end-walls and side-walls may be integrally formed with either the blades and/or the body, or they may be independently formed from one or more of the blades and the body. One or more of the blades may therefore be integrally formed with the body. One or more blades may be independently formed from the body. Preferably, the cutting edges of the first and second blades are of substantially equal length. Where the cutting edges of the first and second blades are not of substantially equal length, the cut-width A is the minimum length of the cutting edge of the first or second blade. #050703 Preferably, the removing stop is attachable to the tool. The removing stop may be extendable tangential to the longitudinal axis (plane) of the removing blade, such that movement of the removing blade through a piece of wood in the direction of the removing blade's cutting edge is limited by the removing stop. The removing stop controls the length of cut of the removing blade during removal of the portion of wood from the recess to create the rectangular recess. In some embodiments, the at least one removing stop extends from the body tangential (preferably perpendicular) to one or more of the blades. In some embodiments of the invention, especially embodiments of the 3-blade version, the body of the tool acts as the removing stop. In alternative embodiments, especially embodiments of the 6-blade versions, the third blade, or a side wall to which the third blade is attached or portions thereof acts as the removing stop. In further embodiments, the removing stop is located on the third blade. In further embodiments, a removing stop is located on at least one or more of the first and second blade (and/or the end—walls to which they may be attached).

Ideally, the third blade is substantially planar. In favorable embodiments the third blade is connectable to the body and extends perpendicularly from the body.

In further embodiments of the 3-blade version, the second laterally opposite ends of the first and second blades are connected by a seventh blade, thereby forming a quadrilateral-shaped blade. This quadrilateral blade can be likened to two overlapping U-shaped blades; the inscribing blade being defined by the first, second and third blades, and the removing blade being defined by either the third or seventh blades. The seventh blade can be used as a guide to align the tool with the edge of the wood when inscribing the wood. In addition, this arrangement provides an advantage in that the seventh blade can aid in the inscribing process, especially in the cases of particularly hard wood or where the wood presents an uneven edge.

The body may further comprise a second side-wall extending between and substantially perpendicular to the two end-walls, the seventh blade may be attachable to the second side-wall. Ideally, the second side-wall is substantially planar. In favourable embodiments the seventh blade is connectable to the body and extends perpendicularly from the body. In such an arrangement, the tool takes the form of an open-ended box.

Preferably, the body is quadrilateral in shape. In some embodiments, the body is in the form of a plate. In favourable embodiments, the body is of the form of a substantially solid quadrilateral block, ideally with such apertures or attachment points as necessary to provide the additional features of the invention. In embodiments of the invention adapted as manual hand tools, the body may preferably further comprise a handle and/or strike bar attached thereto.

Favourably, the handle and strike bar are integrally formed. In some embodiments, the handle and/or strike bar is removable. In embodiments of the 6-blade version it may be preferable to have a removable handle and/or strike bar that can detach from the body and be attached to the side-wall. In further embodiments, it may be desirable to have the handle and/or strike bar located on the third blade or the side-wall. In some embodiments of the invention, the tool may be directly attachable or connected to a drill bit or rivet gun bit. In such embodiments, the vibration and/or the hammer action of the drill or rivet gun punches the tool into the wood.

In some embodiments of the invention, the tool further comprises at least one interior blade extending perpendicular from the base in the same direction as the first and second blades, and preferably by substantially the same distance.

Preferably, at least one interior blade is parallel to the first and second blades.

Ideally, the at least one interior blade is substantially planar. In some embodiments of the 6-blade version, each interior blade may be parallel to the first and second blades and may comprise an additional cutting edge aligned with and parallel to the cutting edges of the fourth and fifth blades. In some embodiments, the at least one interior blade is integrally formed with the body. In alternative embodiments, the at least one interior blade is independently formed from the body and is detachable. The body may further comprise interior walls; which may be integrally or independently formed with the body and/or integrally or independently formed from the interior blades. The presence of interior blades can assist in the inscribing process and also in the removing process by providing additional blades.

In addition, the presence of interior blades can reduce the risk of damaging the wood beyond the recess area when removing the recess material, for example by splitting along the wood grain.

Further embodiments of the tool may further comprise at least one inscribing stop positionable such that the distance the inscribing blade can penetrate through a piece of wood (along the longitudinal axis of the inscribing blade) may be limited by the inscribing stop, said distance defining the cut-depth. The inscribing stop may be attachable to the tool and/or may extend tangential to the longitudinal axis (plane) of the inscribing blade, thereby preventing the movement of the inscribing blade through a piece of wood in the direction of the inscribing blade’s cutting edge beyond the inscribing stop. The cut-depth may also be described as the maximum distance the inscribing blade may penetrate the wood prior to being stopped by the inscribing stop. The longitudinal axis (plane) of the inscribing blade extends through the cutting edge of the inscribing blade to the body. In some embodiments, the at least one inscribing stop extends from the body perpendicular to one or more of the first, second and third blades. An inscribing stop may be locatable on at least one, and preferably both, of the first and second blades. The inscribing stop may be locatable on one or more of the end-walls or side-walls.

In some embodiments, one or both of the removing stop and inscribing stop if present is integrally formed with the tool. In alternative embodiments, one or both of the removing stop and inscribing stop if present are independently formed from the tool. The position of one or both of the removing stop and inscribing stop may be adjustable. This may be achieved by numerous means, such as providing one or more of the blades, body, end-walls or side—wall with a number of suitably arranged screw holes, grooves and/or slots, for example, and providing corresponding means of removable attachment on the inscribing stop and/or removing stop, such as screws, or pins or other readily apparent means of attachment.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the removing stop and inscribing stop are integrally formed with each other. The positions of the integrally formed inscribing stop and removing stop may be adjustable from a first position to act as an inscribing stop and a second position to act as a removing stop. The combined inscribing and removing stop may be pivotably and/or slidably adjustable between at least these two positions and mounted on the blades, body, end—walI or side—wall of the tool. In further embodiments of the invention, the lengths of one or more of the blades is adjustable. In some embodiments, the lengths may be adjustable by adding on three-sided modules comprising an extension to the third blade and/or side—wall and body and an additional end-wall/ first blade, thereby turning one of the previous first or second blades into an interior blade.

In some embodiments of the invention, one or both of the removing stop and inscribing stop if present extend between the first and second blades. Favourably, at least one surface of the inscribing stop is set substantially parallel to the blades of the inscribing blade. In some embodiments, particularly the 6-blade versions, the inscribing stop may extend the full width of the first, second or third blade. In further embodiments of the invention, particularly the 3-blade versions, the inscribing stop is Iocatable on the first and/or second blade, and does not extend across the full width of the first or second blade. In such embodiments, the distance between the third blade and the inscribing stop is substantially equal to or greater than the cut depth. This arrangement allows the removing blade to penetrate the wood to the full extent when the inscribing stop is in place. In favourable embodiments, the distance between the third blade and the inscribing stop is substantially equal to the cut depth.

Naturally, where distances are described as being substantially equal, it is intended that these distances take into account the additional thickness required to permit the various blades to penetrate the wood, and also to allow for minor imperfections and the natural unevenness of some wood surfaces Although the invention and aspects thereof may be fashioned out of any suitable, durable, rigid material, hard metals or metal alloys are preferred. In particular, the invention may preferably be fashioned out of a metal alloy such as brass and/or hardened and/or tempered steel.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the blades are provided by beveled edges. Preferably, the edges are single beveled, with the single beveled edge of the blades pointing towards the body, rather than away from the body. In this way, the edges of the recess after the material is removed are straight, rather than beveled.

In some embodiments of the invention, one or more of the blades are integrally formed with the body. Such embodiments may be manufactured with the intention of being disposed of after the blades of the blades become blunted, although it may be possible to sharpen the blades a limited number of times without substantially impairing function. As repeated sharpening will reduce the length of the blades, embodiments with integrally formed blades may have only a limited lifespan.

In preferred embodiments of the invention one or more of the blades and/or side- walls and/or end-walls are independently formed from the respective wall or body to which they are attachable. In some embodiments each blade is independently formed and further provided with a blade support for engaging with one or more of the end-walls, side-walls and/or body. The blade support may further comprise one or more of an inscribing stop and removing stop. Preferably, the blade support is provided with a means of attachment to one or more of the body, side-wall or end- wall. In one embodiment, the blade support can slide into hollow side-walls and/or end—walls and the blades protrude from the side-or-end-wall. The straight edge of the side-wall may comprise an inscribing stop (see below); in such embodiments, it is preferred that the side wall does not extend across the full width of the blade, so as to allow the portion of the inscribing blade not housed within the full extent of the side wall to pass through the inscribed cut of the recess. In alternative embodiments, the blade support attaches to one surface of one or more of the side- wall, end-wall and body. Two or more of the blades may be integrally formed. One or more of the blades may be independently formed.

Further embodiments of the invention may additionally comprise a removing guide with a guide portion extendable away from the body and past the cutting edge of the removing blade, the guide portion being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the removing blade and further being offset from the longitudinal axis of the removing blade by a distance at least the cut-depth. The guide portion can be rested against the surface of the wood and thereby act as a guide to enable the user align the removing blade at the correct depth required to accurately remove the recessed material. Preferably, a removing guide is positionable along one or both of the first and second blades. In addition, the removing guide helps the user ensure that the removing blade is perpendicular to the ends of the inscribed cuts and not skewed, particularly if two removing guides are used, one disposed on the first and second blades.

In further embodiments of the invention, the inscribing stop may comprise a guide portion of a removing guide extending parallel to the first and second blades past the perimeter of the third blade, in the direction away from the third blade. In some 6-blade versions the guide portion extends beyond the removing blade.

In some embodiments the removing guide is integrally formed or attached to the inscribing stop and/or the removing stop. The position of the inscribing stop relative to the inscribing blade may be adjustable (for example by at least 90° or at least 180°) to permit the guide portion of the removing guide be moved to extend beyond the removing blade and so act as a removing guide. The position of the inscribing stop may be adjustable so as to enable the inscribing stop act as a removing guide.

In some embodiments, the inscribing stop may be slidably adjustable; in further embodiments, the inscribing stop may be pivotably adjustable.

In some embodiments of the invention, guide holes for fretwork, drilling, lock placement or screw holes may be provided in one or more of the group consisting of blades, side-wall, end—walIs and body. Preferably, such guidelines are provided on the third blade and/or side-wall. The tool may also be provided with one or more spirit levels. Optionally, the spirit level may be integrally formed with one or more of the group consisting of removing stop, inscribing stop, body, side-wall, second side-wall, end-wall and handle. The tool may be provided with at least one guide arm to permit the user to position the tool the correct distance from the end of the piece of wood prior to inscribing the wood. Preferably, the guide arm is extendable from the tool. In further embodiments, the position of the guide arm may be moved to permit the guide arm to act as a removing guide. Favourably, gradations are provided on one or more straight edge surfaces of the tool selected from the group consisting of blades, inscribing blade, removing blade, body, side-wall, end—wall, second side-wall, removing stop, inscribing stop, removing-inscribing blade, guide portion, removing guide and guide arm.

The invention also provides blades for use with the tools of the invention in all the possible embodiments.

In a further embodiment, the invention provides for a tool suitable for inscribing and removing a portion of a wooden member, comprising: a body, with first and second blades extendable substantially perpendicularly from the support member in spaced apart parallel relationship, a third blade extendable between opposite lateral ends of the first and second blades, cutting edges on the blades, which between them define the outline of the portion of wood to be inscribed and removed (U-shaped inscribing blade), a first control means to control the depth of cut of the third blade when the tool is used to cut away the inscribed portion (removing-cut length), and further comprising a removing guide with a guide portion extendable away from the support member and past the cutting edge of the third blade, the guide portion being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the third blade and further being offset from the longitudinal axis of the third blade. Naturally, the features of this embodiment may be advantageously combined with any of the other features herein described.

In a still further embodiment of the invention, there is provided a tool suitable for inscribing and removing a portion of a wooden member, comprising: a body, with first and second blades extendable substantially perpendicularly from the support member in spaced apart parallel relationship, a third blade extendable between opposite lateral ends of the flrst and second blades, cutting edges on the blades, which between them define the outline of the portion of wood to be inscribed and removed (U-shaped inscribing blade), a first control means to control the depth of cut of the third blade when the tool is used to cut away the inscribed portion (removing-cut length), and further comprising a second control means to control the depth of cuts of the blades when the tool is used to inscribe the portion to be cut (cut-depth). Naturally, the features of this embodiment may be advantageously combined with any of the other features herein described.

The present invention also provides for a tool suitable for inscribing and cutting out a hinge recess from a door frame, the tool comprising a first and second blade attachable to a body, the first and second blades disposed substantially parallel to each other and extending substantially perpendicular away from the body in the same direction, the length of the cutting edges of the first and second blades defining a cut-width, at least one laterally opposite end of the first and second blades connectable by a third blade, thereby forming a substantially U-shaped inscribing blade; the third blade defining a removing blade, wherein the tool is moveably mounted within an external housing such that the inscribing blade and removing blade can each extend from housing.

Preferably, the tool further comprises at least one removing stop positionable such that the distance the third blade can penetrate through a piece of wood along the longitudinal axis of the third blade may be limited by the removing stop, said distance defining a removing-cut length. Furthermore, the tool may also comprise at least one inscribing stop to limit the distance by which the inscribing blade can extend from the housing. Ideally, the cut width is substantially equal to the removing-cut length.

I (0507 The maximum distance that one or both of the removing blade and inscribing blade can extends from the housing may be adjustable by means of adjusting the position of the inscribing stop or removing stop.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the tool may be spring mounted within an external housing. Preferably, the external housing is adapted to sit flush against a flat surface such the inscribing blade and removing blade do not extend beyond the housing. In favourable embodiments, one or more of the tool and the housing or the worm gear is further provided with means to control and or limit the depth the blades extend away from the housing, comprising a first extension means to permit the inscribing blade extend by a first distance, termed the cutting distance and a second extension means to permit the removing blade to extend by a second distance, substantially equal to the cut width. In favourable embodiments of the invention, one or both of the extension means are adjustable and may be pre—set by the user. In some embodiments of the invention one or both of the extension means is located on the tool and or the housing. in further embodiments of the invention, the tool is mounted within an external housing and is activated by a drill bit. Preferably, the tool is spring mounted within the housing. In some embodiments, the body of the tool is attached to one or more compression shafts extending through the housing and attachable to drill bit engagement means.

Ideally the compression shafts are spring mounted. In some embodiments, the drill bit engagement means is one or more cogs. In some embodiments, the drill bit is formed as a worm gear adapted to engage with one or more cogs located on the compression shafts.

In favourable embodiments, one or more of the tool and the housing is further provided with means to control and or limit the depth the blades extend away from the housing, comprising a first extension means to permit the inscribing blade extend by a first distance, termed the cutting distance and a second extension means to permit the removing blade to extend by a second distance, substantially equal to the cut width. In favourable embodiments of the invention, one or both of the extension means are adjustable and may be pre—set by the user. In some embodiments of the invention one or both of the extension means is located on the tool and or the housing.

Favourably, there may additionally be provided a torque control means. Preferably, the torque control means in attachable or attached to one or more of the drill, drill bit, housing or tool. The torque control means is adapted to ensure the torque of the drill disengages when the inscribing blade is extended by the cut depth and/or the removing blade is extended by the cut width.

In some embodiments, one or both of the extension means are provided on the worm gear. This may be provided, for example, by a disengagement means on the worm gear, such as protrusions and/or cessation of the pitch of the worm bit such that the worm bit can only engage the cog of the compression shaft for a defined a predetermined distance that correlates to an extension of the inscribing blade by the cutting depth. Similarly, a second disengagement means may be provided after the first disengagement means to enable the worm gear to disengage after the removing blade has extended by the cut width. One advantage of locating the disengagement means on the worm gear drill bit is that a selection of different drill bits may be provided, each with a different combination of inscribing and removing depths.

In further embodiments, of the invention, the tool is mounted within an external body and is electrically operated.

Preferably, the removing cut length and/or cut length and/or cut width are either fixed or fixable to suit standards of hinge dimensions, be they imperial or metric measurements. For example, the removing cut length may be between about 1/2" (about approximately 12.7 mm) and about 4" (about approximately 101.6 mm).

Preferable lengths of the removing cut length are selected from the group consisting of about 1/2", about 1", about 1'/2", about 2", about 2‘/2", about 3", about 31/2", about 4". Preferably, the cut width is equal to the length of the removing blade. Preferably, the inscribing stop is located between about ‘/a" (about approximately 3.175 mm) to about 1" (about approximately 25.4 mm) from the inscribing blade. Ideally, the cut-width is selected from the group consisting of about Vs", about ‘/4", about 3/3", about 1/2", about 5/a", about 3/4", about 7/8", and about 1". The above measurements may be expressed in metric form.

Alternatively, the measurements may be metric standard units, for example inscribing stop may be located or locatable a defined distance that may be simply expressed in metric terms (e.g., 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm and so on) and the removing—cut length may be selected from about 10 mm to about 200 mm)) and so .on.

Brief Descriggion 9f the Drgwings Figure 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2a and 2b depict the device in use.

Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure 4a-4d shows embodiments of the invention with removable blades.

Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the invention with an inscribing stop extending between both end-walls.

Figure 6 shows alternative embodiments of end—walls, side-walls, inscribing stops, removing stops and blades of the invention.

Figure 7 shows an embodiment of the invention with a second side—wal|.

Figure 8 shows an embodiment of present invention with separate inscribing blade and removing blade.

Figure 9 shows further embodiment of present invention with separate inscribing blade and removing blade.

Figure 10 shows a further embodiment of the invention with a plurality of internal walls.

Figure 11 shows an embodiment of the invention with a removing guide.

Figure 12 shows an embodiment of the invention with additional features.

Figure 13a shows an alternative embodiment of the invention with housing.

Figure 13b shows a detail of the embodiment of figure 12a.

Figure 14a shows an alternative embodiment of the invention with tool located within a housing with inscribing blade extended.

Figure 14a shows an alternative embodiment of the invention with tool located within a housing with removing blade extended.

Figure 15 shows an embodiment of the invention activated by a drill.

Figure 16 shows an alternative embodiment of a tool of the invention.

Detailed Degcriggion of the Drawings A first embodiment of a tool of the invention is now described with reference to Figures 1 to 2B of the drawings.

Figure 1 shows a tool 1 generally in the form of a four-sided box, having a body portion in the form of a planar rectangular plate 2. First and second blades 10, 20 extend perpendicularly from the plate 2 at opposed transverse ends of the plate 2.

A third blade 30 extends perpendicularly from one of the longitudinal sides of the plate 2, and is connected at each end to the first and second blades 10, 20, respectively. The first and second blades 10, 20 are formed with bevelled cutting edges 11, 21. The length of the first and second cutting edges 11, 21 defines the cut width A. A third cutting edge 31 is disposed on the third blade 30. The first, second and third blades together define a substantially U—shaped inscribing blade suitable for scoring or inscribing a rectangular hinge outline on the edge of a door frame, as illustrated in Figure 2A.

A handle and combined strike bar 8 extends perpendicularly from the base 2 in the opposite direction away from the first, second and third blades 10, 20, 30. The handle 8 is provided with a flat top 9 to permit striking with a mallet or hammer.

In the embodiment shown in figure 1 the third blade can additionally be used as a removing blade, for removing the inscribed portion of wood, as described below.

For that use the plate 2 acts as a stop (hereinafter referred to as a “removing stop” to control the depth of cut of the plate to a depth equal to the width A of the piece of wood to be removed to create the hinge recess.. The distance B from the cutting edge 31 of the third blade 30 (the removing blade) to the body 2 is substantially equal to the cut width A.

In use, the tool 1 is placed against the plane of a door or doorjamb 40 as shown in figure 2a. Striking the flat top 9 with a mallet or hammer causes the first, second and third blades 10, 20, 30 to inscribe the wood to a cut depth C. In this embodiment the depth of cut of the inscribing blade (depth C) is controlled partly by the force applied to the bar 8, and partly by the depth of the bevelled cutting edges 11, 21, 31, which suitably have a depth equal to depth C. The cut width A is determined by the length of the first and second cutting edges 11, 21.

The tool is then removed from the wood and placed against the side of the door or doorjamb with the third blade 30 aligned at depth C. Striking the fiat top 9 with a mallet or hammer causes the third blade 30 to move in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first cut to cleanly remove the required piece of wood in a single movement. As the distance from the edge of the third blade 30 to the plate 2 is substantially equal to the cut width A, the tool penetrates the wood a distance 8 that is sufficient to completely remove the piece of wood without penetrating any liosozoz further, and so does not damage the wood beyond the cuts made by the inscribing blade. .

A second embodiment of a tool of the invention is shown in figure 3. A depth control stop (i.e. the removing stop) in the form of a first block 4 is attached to each of the first and second blade 10, 20. [In the embodiment shown in the drawing a first block 4 is located on the face of each of the blades 10, 20, but alternatively could be located on the inner face of each blade]. The first block 4 is located a distance B from the first cutting edge 11 of the such that distance B is substantially equal to the cut width A (it is preferred that another first block is similarly placed on the second end wall 20). An inscribing depth control stop in the form of a second block 5 is also attached to outer face of each of the first and second blades 10, 20, and is located a cut depth C from the inscribing blade 30. In use, the second block 5 limits the cut-depth C that the inscribing blade can penetrate the wood. The second block 5 does not extend across the full width of the first or second blade 10, 20. The second block 5 is laterally spaced from the first block 5 a distance equal to or greater than the distance c a cut depth C distance from the third blade 30; this allows the removing blade to remove the recess material without being impeded by the inscribing stop 5 (second block 5).

In alternative embodiments of the invention shown in figures 4a-4d, the first, second and third blades 10, 20, 30 are removable and are mountable on first and second end-walls 13, 23 respectively and a side-wall 33. In the embodiment shown in figure 4a, the body of the blade 10 is housed within the end-wall 13. When the blade 10 is fully housed within the end-wall 13, the first cutting edge 11 protrudes from the end—wall 13. A similar arrangement of removable blades is disposed on the second end-wall 23 and the side-wall 33. The blade 10 is retained within the end- wall 13 by a blade—support retaining means in the form of a grub screw 15 (see Fig. 4c). In alternative arrangements, the blade support may be positioned at different distances from the body 2 and held in place by the grub screw 15. The removable blade 10 is provided with a lip 18 to abut flush against the end of the side-wall 13.

The arrangement of the second and third blades 20, 30 are analogous.

In figure 4b, an alternative embodiment of the invention is shown where the end- wall 13 has a recess whose width is at least substantially equal to the cut-depth C.

This permits the first and second blade 10, 20 to pass through the inscribed cuts when the third blade 30 is acting as a removing blade. Although the distal end 28 of E05070; the end~wall 13 may act as an inscribing stop, it is preferable to provide an additional extension in the form of a second block 5. A separate removing stop in the form of a first block 4 is located on each end-wall 13, 23; although the proximal end 29 of the end-wall 13 may act as a removing stop, it may be preferable to provide an additional extension as shown. Figures 4c and 4d show alternative versions of the removable blades 10, 20, 30 where these are adapted to be attached to the end-walls 13, 23 and side-wall 33, either on the inner face (4c) or the outer face (4d) of the side-walls and end—wa|ls.

Figure 5 shows a further embodiment of the invention where the inscribing stop extends between the first and second blades 10, 20 in the form of an internally extending strip 7.

Figure 6 shows a variety of alternative inscribing stops, removing stops and end- walls. The end—wa|l 13, 23 may be provided with attachment means for the removable attachment of inscribing stops, removing stops and/or removable blades (blades). Figures 6a and 6b show different means of attachment; the provision of screw holes 95 or slots 96 to enable the user select the location of the various articles of attachment. Favourably, the attachment may be by means of attaching one or both of a first block 4 or second block 5. Different versions of first blocks and second blocks are shown in figures 6d-65g. Figure 6h shows a second block 5 with an integrally formed spirit level 17. Figure 6i shows an example of a first block 4 and second block 5 integrally formed. Figures 6j and 6k show an example of how a first block 4 may be rotated to act as a removing guide 50.

Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment comprising a seventh blade 301, extending between the first and second blades 10, 20 parallel to the third blade 30.

The tool 1 generally has the shape of a rectangular box. A cutting edge 311 is located along the seventh blade 301 creating a substantially rectangular shaped inscribing blade.

Figure 16 shows a favourable embodiment of the invention, where the body 2 is in the form of a block. The first and second blades 10, 20 are integrally formed with the body 2 and permit attachment of the first blade 10 and second blade 20 respectively by means of attachment screws 45. The third blade 30 is similarly independently formed from the body 2. Attachment of the third blade 30 to the body is also by means of screws (not shown). A handle 8 (and combined strike bar) extends from the body 2 and is attached to the body 2 by a handle-screw 46. The handlevscrew 46 is positioned with at least a cut depth C clearance from the third blade 31 (although in alternative embodiments, the handle-screw 46 may act as a removing stop). Two elongate blocks 43 are pivotally mounted on the body 2 by means of a spring biased restraining screw 41. The spring biased restraining screw 41 permits the elongate blocks 43 to rotate 180° so that when an elongate block 43 is in the position as shown over the first blade 10, the tool can be used to make the inscribing cut. In the embodiment shown in figure 16, the thickness of the bevel of the blades allows the user to control the inscribing depth to a depth C with relative ease. However, in alternative embodiments, the short end 44 of the elongate block may extend up to a cut-depth C from the cutting edge of the first blade so that the elongate block can also act as an inscribing stop when in the position shown over the first blade 10. Returning to figure 16, after the inscribing cut has been made, the elongate block 43 may be pivoted about the restraining screw 41 so that the long end 42 acts as a removing guide, as shown in the position of the elongate block over the second blade 20. The distance from the removing guide formed by the long end 45 to the edge of the third blade is at least substantially equal to the cut depth C. As before, the cut-width A is substantially equal to the maximum length the removing blade can cut, A, as the body 2 acts as the restraining stop. In alternative embodiments that comprise removing guides and/or inscribing stops, the cut-width may not be substantially equal to the removing—cut length.

Figures 8, 9 and 10 are examples of 6~blade versions of the invention. In figure 8, fourth and fifth blades 12, 22 are formed by cutting edges placed perpendicular to the first and second cutting edges of the first and second blades 10, 20. A sixth blade 32 is formed by a cutting edge disposed along the planar body 2. The fourth, fifth and sixth blades thus form a substantially U~shaped blade. The third blade 30 acts as the removing stop. A further embodiment is shown in figure 9 where the tool 1 is generally in the form of a pan; the distance of the first, second and third blade 10, 20, 30 from the body 2 is substantially equal to the cut depth C. The removing blade is separate from the inscribing blade; thus the first, second and third blades 10, 20, 30 form the inscribing blade and the fourth, fifth and sixth blades 12, 22, 32 form the removing blade. In this embodiment, the body 2 acts as the inscribing stop and the third blade 30 acts as the removing stop.

Figure 10 illustrates a further embodiment of the invention with a plurality of internal blades 60 set parallel to the first and second blades 10, 20. Each internal E05070: blade 60 ideally is provided with at least one cutting edge to act in concert with one or both of the inscribing blade and removing blade. In the embodiment shown, each of the internal blades 60 is provided with an internal inscribing blade 63 extending in the opposite direction from the body 2 and an internal removing blade 64 extending from the internal blade 60 in the opposite perpendicular direction from the third blade 30.

Figures 11 show additional features of the invention which may be used with any suitable other features or embodiments, where the inscribing stop is integrally formed with a removing guide 50. In addition the handle 9 is detachable and reattachable by means of a screw thread such that when engaged in the recess or hole in the side-wall 30 or body 2, the threaded portion 7 of the handle strike bar 8 is flush with the side-wall 30 or body 2. Figures 12 show further additional features of the invention which may be used with any suitable other features; the provision of guide holes 51 for drilling and gradations S2 for measurement located on the outside of the tool 1. The removing guide 50 may also function as an extendable guide to ensure the tool 1 is placed the correct distance form the end of the door.

A further embodiment of the invention is shown in figures 13a and 13b. The tool is located within a housing 70. The housing 70 is provided with a flat base 71, support walls 72 and a roof 73. The tool is mounted in the housing 70 by means of a spring biased compression shaft 74 extending through an aperture 75 in the roof 73. The compression shaft is provided with a first extension stop 76 and a second extension stop 77 located on a pair of cylindrical collars 78 surrounding the compression shaft 74. The compression shaft 74 is provided with cut distance- gradations 80. The cylindrical collars 78 are provided with adjustment screws 79 for fixing their position along grooves 81 in the compression shaft 74. The aperture 75 is provided with discriminating means 82 to prevent the first extension stop 76 extend through the aperture 75 in one position; but permit the passage of the first extension stop 76 in a second position. In this way once the inscribing cut has been made the user can rotate the compression shaft 74 to permit the first extension stop 76 extend through the aperture 75 and so permit full extension of the removing blade by the required cut width distance as determined by the position of the second collar on the gradations of the compression shaft. Thus, the first extension stop 76 acts as an inscribing stop and the second extension stop 77 acts as a removing stop.

IE05g7o‘ An alternative arrangement is shown in figures 14a and 14b. The support walls 72 are provided with catches 83 that may be slidably passed through apertures in the support wall 84 to reversibly engage with the side-walls 10, 20 by means of passing through side-wall apertures 85. The length of the side-wall aperture 85 measured along the inscribing blade axis is substantially equal to the cut depth C plus the thickness of the catch 83. Thus, when the catches 83 are engaged with the side- wall apertures 85 the inscribing blade 3 can only extend from the housing 70 by the cut depth C. Thus, the side-wall apertures 85 act as inscribing stops.

When the catches 83 are disengaged from the side-wall apertures 85, the tool 1 can extend from the housing 70 by the full length of the removing blade, and is prevented from further extension by a plunger removing stop 86 located at the flared top 87 of the plunger shaft 88 extending from the tool 1 through the roof 73.

Figure 15 shows a further embodiment for activation by a drill bit. A threaded compression shaft 90 extends from the tool 1 through the roof 73 of the housing 70. A drill bit 91 engages with the threaded compression shaft 90 to extend the tool 1. Naturally, means to control the cut depth are provided, such as those herein described.

The words “comprises/comprising" and the words “having/including” when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

From the foregoing, it will be apparent that numerous modifications and variations can be effected without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concept of the present invention. It will be appreciated that the present disclosure is intended to set forth the exemplifications of the invention which are not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated. The disclosure is intended to cover by the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.

Where technical features mentioned in any claim are followed by reference signs, these reference signs have been included for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the claims and accordingly, such reference signs do not have any limiting effect on the scope of each element identified by way of example by such reference signs.

Claims 1. A tool suitable for inscribing and removing a portion of a wooden member, comprising: a support member (2), first and second blades (10, 20) extending substantially perpendicularly from the support member (2) in spaced apart parallel relationship, a third blade (30) extending between opposite lateral ends of the first and second blades (10, 20), cutting edges (11, 21, 31) on the blades (10, 20, 30), which between them define the outline of the portion of wood to be inscribed and removed, a first control means to control the depth of cut of the third blade (30) when the tool is used to cut away the inscribed portion, wherein the first and second cutting blades (10, 20) have a cutting width (A) which is substantially equal to the maximum depth of cut (8) of the third blade (30).

. A tool suitable for inscribing and removing a portion of a wooden member, comprising: a support member (2), first and second blades (10, 20) extending substantially perpendicularly from the support member (2) in spaced apart parallel relationship, a third blade (30) extending between opposite lateral ends of the first and second blades (10, 20), cutting edges (11, 21, 31) on the blades (10, 20, 30), which between them define the outline of the portion of wood to be inscribed and removed, a first control means to control the depth of cut of the third blade (30) when the tool is used to cut away the inscribed portion, and further comprising a removing guide (42, 50) with a guide portion extendable away from the support member (2) and past the cutting edge (31) of the third blade (30), the guide portion being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the third blade and further being offset from the longitudinal axis of the third blade.

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 1-2 further comprising a second control means to control the depth of cuts of the blades (10, 20, 30) when the tool is used to inscribe the portion to be cut, said distance defining the cut—depth (C). ‘£05070: . A tool suitable for inscribing and removing a portion of a wooden member, comprising: a support member (2), first and second blades (10, 20) extending substantially perpendicularly from the support member (2) in spaced apart parallel relationship, a third blade (30) extending between opposite lateral ends of the first and second blades (10, 20), cutting edges (11, 21, 31) on the blades (10, 20, 30), which between them define the outline of the portion of wood to be inscribed and removed, a first control means to control the depth of cut of the third blade (30) when the tool is used to cut away the inscribed portion, and further comprising a second control means to control the depth of cuts of the blades (10, 20, 30) when the tool is used to inscribe the portion to be cut.

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 2—4 wherein the first and second cutting blades (10, 20) have a cutting width (A) which is substantially equal to the maximum depth of cut (B) of the blades (10, 20, 30).

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 1, 4 or 5 further comprising a removing guide (42, 50) with a guide portion extendable away from the support member (2) and past the cutting edge (31) of the third blade (30), the guide portion (42, 50) being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the third blade (30) and further being offset from the longitudinal axis of the third blade (30).

. A tool as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the first control means is a removing stop (4) extendable tangential to one or more of the first, second and third blades (10, 20, 30).

. A tool suitable for inscribing and cutting out a hinge recess from a door frame, the tool comprising a support member (2), first and second blades (10, 20) extending substantially perpendicularly from the support member (2) in spaced apart parallel relationship, a third blade (30) extending between opposite lateral ends of the first and second blades (10, 20), cutting edges (11, 21, 31) on the blades (10, 20, 30), which between them define the outline of the portion of wood to be inscribed and removed, a first control means to control the depth of cut of the sixth blade when the tool is used to cut away the inscribed portion, the first and second blades (10, 20) each further comprising a second cutting edge (12, 22), said second cutting edges (12, 22) forming the cutting edges of a fourth and fifth blade respectively, and a sixth blade (30) extending between opposite lateral ends of the fourth and fifth cutting edges (12, 22) blades (10, 20).

. A tool as claimed in claim 7 wherein the first and second cutting blades (10, ) have a cutting width (A) which is substantially equal to the maximum depth of cut (B) of the sixth blade.

. A tool as claimed in claim 7 or 8 wherein the first control means is a removing stop (4) extendable tangential to one or more of the fourth, fifth or sixth blades.

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 7-9 wherein the sixth blade extends from the support member (2).

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 7-10 further comprising a removing guide (42, 50) with a guide portion extendable away from the support member (2) and past the cutting edge (32) of the sixth blade, the guide portion being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sixth blade and further being offset from the longitudinal axis of the sixth blade . A tool as claimed in any of claims 7-11 further comprising a second control means to control the depth of cuts of the blades ( 10, 20, 30) when the tool is used to inscribe the portion to be cut, said distance defining the cut-depth (C).

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 3, 4 or 12 wherein the second control means is an inscribing stop (5) extendable tangential to one or more of the first, second and third blades (10, 20, 30).

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 3, 4, 12 or 13 wherein the position of the second control means may be adjustable.

‘E95070; . A tool as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the position of the first control means may be adjustable.

. A tool as claimed in any preceding claim wherein one or more of the blades are integrally formed with the support member (2).

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 1-14 wherein one or more of the blades are independently formed from the support member (2).

. A tool as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the support member (2) further comprises one or more end-walls (13, 23) or side-walls (33) to which one or more of the blades are attachable.

. A tool as claimed in any proceeding claim further comprising an attachment means for a drill or rivet gun.

. A tool as claimed in claim 17 wherein the attachment means for a drill or rivet gun is a drill bit engagable with the support member (2). 19. A tool as claimed in any proceeding claim further comprising a handle (8).

. A tool suitable for inscribing and cutting out a hinge recess from a door frame, the tool comprising a support member (2), first and second blades (10, 20) extending substantially perpendicularly from the support member (2) in spaced apart parallel relationship, a third blade (30) extending between opposite lateral ends of the first and second blades (10, 20), cutting edges (11, 21, 31) on the blades (10, 20, 30), which between them define the outline of the portion of wood to be inscribed and removed, wherein the tool is moveably mounted within an external housing (70) such that the blades (10, 20, 30) can extend from housing.

. A tool as claimed in claim 20 further comprising a first control means to control the depth of cut of the third blade (30) when the tool is used to cut away the inscribed portion.

. A tool as claimed in claim 20, or 21 wherein the first and second cutting blades (10, 20) have a cutting width (A) which is substantially equal to the maximum depth of cut (B) of the third blade (30).

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 20-22 further comprising a second control means to control the depth of cuts of the blades (10, 20, 30) when the tool is used to inscribe the portion to be cut, said distance defining the cut-depth (C).

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 20-23 wherein the support member (2) of the tool (1) is attached to one or more compression shafts (74) extending through the housing (70).

. A tool as claimed in claim 24 wherein the compression shafts (74) are spring mounted.

. A tool as claimed in any of claims 20-25 wherein the extension of one or more of the blades from the tool may be effected by engagement by the tool or housing with a drill bit.

. A tool as claimed in claims 20-26 wherein one or more of the blades are independently formed from the support member (2).

. A replaceable blade for use with a tool of the invention as claimed in claims or claim 27 comprising a blade adapted to be reversibly attachable to the support member (2).

. A kit comprising at least one or more of a tool (1) as claimed in any of claims 1-19, a tool as claimed in any of claims 20-27, at least one drill bit adapted to engage the tool as claimed claim 17-18, or claim 26, and at least one or more replaceable blades as claimed in claim 28.

. A tool or replaceable blade substantially as herein described with reference to, and as illustrated in one or more of figures 1 and 3 to 16 of the accompanying drawings.

. A method of inscribing and removing a portion of a wooden member substantially as herein described with reference to, and as illustrated in figure 2 of the accompanying drawings.

Tomkins & Co.

Claims (5)

1. A tool suitable for inscribing and removing a portion of a wooden member, comprising: a support member (2), first and second blades (10, 20) extending substantially perpendicularly from the support member (2) in spaced apart parallel relationship, a third blade (30) extending between opposite lateral ends of the first and second blades (10, 20), cutting edges (11, 21, 31) on the blades (10, 20, 30), which between them define the outline of the portion of wood to be inscribed and removed, a first control means to control the depth of cut of the third blade (30) when the tool is used to cut away the inscribed portion, wherein: the first and second cutting blades (10, 20) have a cutting width (A) which is substantially equal to the maximum depth of cut (B) of the third blade (30), and/or the tool further comprises a removing guide (42, 50) with a guide portion extendable away from the support member (2) and past the cutting edge (31) of the third blade (30), the guide portion being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the third blade and further being offset from the longitudinal axis of the third blade, and/or the tool further comprises a second control means to control the depth of cuts of the blades (10, 20, 30) when the tool is used to inscribe the portion to be cut, and/or wherein the tool is moveably mounted within an external housing (70) such that the blades (10, 20, 30) can extend from housing.

2. A tool suitable for inscribing and cutting out a hinge recess from a door frame, the tool comprising a support member (2), first and second blades (10, 20) extending substantially perpendicularly from the support member (2) in spaced apart parallel relationship, a third blade (30) extending between opposite lateral ends of the first and second blades (10, 20), cutting edges (11, 21, 31) on the blades (10, 20, 30), which between them define the outline of the portion of wood to be inscribed and removed, a first control means to control the depth of cut of the sixth blade when the tool is used to cut away the inscribed portion, the first and second blades (10, 20) each further comprising a second cutting edge (12, 22), said second cutting edges (12, 22) forming the cutting edges of a fourth and fifth blade respectively, a sixth blade (30) extending between opposite lateral ends of the fourth and fifth cutting edges (12, 22) blades (10, 20), such that the first and second cutting blades (10, 20) preferably have a cutting width (A) which is substantially equal to the maximum depth of cut (B) of the sixth blade (30).

3. A tool as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the position of one or more of the first control means, the second control means and/or the removing guide may be adjustable and/or one or more of the blades is independently formed from the support member (2).

4. A tool as claimed in any proceeding claim further comprising an attachment means for a drill or rivet gun.

5. A tool or substantially as herein described with reference to, and as illustrated in one or more of figures 1 and 3 to 16 of the accompanying drawings. Tomkins & Co.