Vol: 1 Issue: 2
Development of a Master Jig for Circular Saw Machine
Asibong Asibong Icha, Simon Ogbeche Odey
Woodworking and wood products manufacturing
sector has undergone dynamic transformation in the
developed countries of the world. This transformation
is underscored by a shared aspiration - reducing
energy expenditure in labour-intensive tasks while
enhancing precision and safety - an enduring challenge
that has shaped the evolution of machines (Sharma and
Singh, 2020; Khan and Turowski, 2016; Zhou, et al.,
2015; Brynjolfsson, and McAfee, 2011; Zielinska,
2004). Historically, human endeavours in woodworking were marked by the constraints of
physical labour, a method fraught with inefficiencies
(Brynjolfsson, and McAfee, 2011; Barger, 1963). The
quest for innovation and optimization drove the development of increasingly sophisticated tools and
machinery, from rudimentary implements like
hammers and screwdrivers to contemporary marvels
driven by electricity and combustion engines (Xu et
al., 2018; Brynjolfsson and McAfee, 2014; Zielinska,
2004). However, the transition to advanced machinery
has not been universal (Schmitz, 2010; Teravaninthorn
and Raballand, 2009; ITC/ITTO, 2002). In
underprivileged regions, the economic burden of
importing cutting-edge equipment often limits access,
compelling local industries to rely on antiquated
machinery or devise makeshift solutions with limited
financial resources (Ogechukwu, 2010; OtengAmoako et al., 2008).
Central to the woodworking industry's modern
landscape are a diverse array of machines (Bajpai and
Bajpai, 2018), both stationary and portable,
encompassing circular saws, band saws, jointers, and
more (Adewole, 2015; Adewole et al., 2017). These
mechanical workhorses have revolutionized wood
processing, yet the boundaries of their capabilities
sometimes necessitate inventive solutions (Capotosto,
1983). In this context, the innovation of jigs emerges
as a pivotal mechanism for augmenting machine
functionality (Icha and Odey, 2024; Odey and Icha,
2022; Okpala and Okechukwu, 2015; DeCristoforo,
1988). These purpose-built accessories not only
enhance precision and speed but also guarantee
uniformity in producing matching components
(Grosu, et al., 2019; Capotosto, 1983).
The circular saw is the fundamental piece of
equipment used in woodworking, serving as the
industry's cornerstone and enabling the conversion of
unfinished wood into dimension lumber for a variety
of uses (Kováč, et al., 2021; Adewole, 2015; Vasques
and Cardoso, 2011). Circular saw machines are
renowned for their ability to perform fundamental
cutting with precision and efficiency. These machines
are precisely designed to handle a variety of materials,
including wood for various woodworking activities
(Nasir and Cool, 2019; Kminiak and Kubš, 2016; Sahu
et al., 2016). Beyond these foundational functions,
circular saws undertake specialized roles, including resawing and the precision crafting of dadoes and
rabbets (EHSO, 2017). Within this intricate milieu, the
performance of other specialized operations and a
variety of joints, such as tenons, box joints, and
dovetails emerges as a defining challenge in
woodworking—a critical component in cabinetry and
furniture construction (Icha and Odey, 2024;
Capotosto, 1983; Icha et al., 2022). The attainment of
these operations accurately on circular saw machines
has historically presented a formidable task. Hence,
the need for the Master Jig—a specialized accessory
meticulously engineered to aid and ensure accurate
and safe crosscutting, mitring, feathering, splining,
tenoning, and slotting, amongst other standard
operations (DeCristoforo, 1988). This sophisticated
device securely clamps work pieces and expertly
guides them through the circular saw, delivering
operations with precision (DeCristoforo, 1988).
Beyond precision, the Master Jig elevates efficiency
by delivering consistent results, allowing
woodworkers to craft uniform operations with ease
(Fleming, 2020).