Dual mode single action convertible utility knife and scraper

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a dual-mode, single-action convertible utility knife and scraper. A system and method are disclosed that includes a dual-mode, single-action convertible knife housing that provides structural support for maintaining blade orientation and integrity in various states of the knife and its modes of operation. The convertible knife can have both cutting and scraping modes of operation that can be transitioned from one mode to the other by a single uniform action of the user. Blades that can be used with the convertible knife include trapezoidal cutouts that are securely held in place by trapezoidal protrusions and other structural elements of a blade clamp assembly. The convertible knife scraping mode provides an asymmetric front end configuration that allows the blade to be closer to the scraping surface compared to a symmetric configuration to allow for a shallower and more effective scraping angle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to cutting tools, multi-purpose knives, and scrapers. More specifically, this application relates to a single-action, dual-mode multi-purpose knife that switches between a cutting configuration and a scraping configuration. Attached Figure Description

[0002] The accompanying drawings are provided to aid in understanding the subject matter for which protection is sought, when considered in conjunction with the following description.

[0003] Figure 1A An exemplary view of a convertible blade in a scraping configuration is shown;

[0004] Figure 1B It shows the cut structure Figure 1A An exemplary view of a convertible knife;

[0005] Figure 1C A paint can opener is shown. Figure 1A An exemplary view of the rear end of the convertible knife;

[0006] Figure 2A It shows the deployment in Figure 1A An exemplary cross-sectional view of the blade holder assembly within a convertible blade;

[0007] Figure 2B An exemplary view of the blade holder assembly in cutting mode is shown;

[0008] Figure 2C An exemplary exploded view of the blade holder assembly and the blade in scraper mode is shown;

[0009] Figure 3A It shows the scraped structure Figure 1A An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible blade;

[0010] Figure 3B It shows Figure 1A An exemplary side view of the convertible knife;

[0011] Figure 4A This illustrates a blade rotation slot within the housing of a convertible blade. Figure 1B An exemplary view of a convertible knife;

[0012] Figure 4B It shows the cut structure Figure 1B An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible blade;

[0013] Figure 4C A blade clamp assembly is shown. Figure 1A An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible blade;

[0014] Figure 4D It shows Figure 1B An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible blade, wherein the blade is in a retracted state;

[0015] Figure 4E It shows Figure 1A An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible blade having top and bottom structural supports for the blade;

[0016] Figure 4F It shows Figure 1A An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible knife having side structural supports for the blade;

[0017] Figure 5A An exemplary exploded view of the blade clamp assembly is shown;

[0018] Figure 5B Another exemplary top view of the blade clamp assembly is shown;

[0019] Figure 5C An exemplary exploded view of the blade clamp assembly is shown;

[0020] Figure 6A The diagram shows the cross section AA. Figure 1A An exemplary view of a convertible knife;

[0021] Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A An example section AA;

[0022] Figure 6C An exemplary view of a blade holder assembly with a blade holder stop is shown;

[0023] Figure 6D A blade-pulling stop tab is shown. Figure 6C An exemplary view of the blade holder assembly;

[0024] Figure 6E A slider button stop is shown. Figure 6C An exemplary exploded cross-sectional view of the blade holder assembly;

[0025] Figure 6F An exemplary cross-sectional view of a slider assembly coupled to a blade holder assembly is shown;

[0026] Figure 7A An exemplary cross-sectional view of the blade holder assembly is shown, which has section AA and an internal track for the guide blade configuration transition;

[0027] Figure 7B The internal guide slot of the blade holder assembly is shown. Figure 7A An exemplary view of section AA;

[0028] Figure 7CAn exemplary operation diagram illustrating the transformation of the knife structure is shown;

[0029] Figure 7D An exemplary view of a blade clamp assembly with a clamping pivot and a blade rotating rod is shown;

[0030] Figure 7E An exemplary view of a knife mode switching mechanism in cutting mode is shown;

[0031] Figure 7F An exemplary view of a blade mode switching mechanism that transitions between cutting and scraping modes is shown;

[0032] Figure 7G An exemplary view of a blade mode switching mechanism in scraping mode is shown;

[0033] Figure 7H An exemplary view of a blade mode switching mechanism transitioning between scraping and cutting modes is shown; and

[0034] Figure 7I An exemplary view of the knife mode switching mechanism in cutting mode is shown when it is still in the transition state. Detailed Implementation

[0035] While this disclosure has been described with reference to several illustrative embodiments and example apparatuses described herein, it should be understood that this disclosure is not intended to be limited to such embodiments. Therefore, the description of the embodiments provided herein is illustrative of this disclosure and should not limit the scope of the claimed disclosure. Furthermore, although the following description refers to a specific construction of the blade clamp and slider assembly, it should be understood that this disclosure is applicable to other types of blade clamps and slider assemblies.

[0036] In summary, a system and method are disclosed comprising a dual-mode, single-action reversible knife housing that provides structural support for maintaining blade orientation and integrity in various knife states and operating modes. The reversible knife can have both cutting and scraping operating modes, transitioning from one mode to the other through a single, uniform action by the user. Blades usable with the reversible knife include a trapezoidal kerf that is securely held in place by trapezoidal protrusions of a blade clamping assembly and other structural elements. This configuration allows for greater exposure of the cutting edge for enhanced functionality. The blade clamping assembly includes a blade release button concealed in scraping mode. Structural support provided by the housing resists accidental rotation or other movement of the blade and / or the blade clamping assembly and blade holder assembly. The reversible knife scraping mode provides an asymmetrical front-end configuration that allows the blade to be closer to the scraping surface compared to a symmetrical configuration, allowing for shallower and more efficient scraping angles. The reversible knife also includes a blade holder assembly comprising a blade clamping assembly for securely holding the blade in place.

[0037] The blade holder assembly includes multiple guide rails (slots embedded in the wall surface of the blade holder assembly) that guide arm pins to switch the operating mode of the convertible knife (blade or scraper). Each guide rail may include a landing recess that ensures the arm pin smoothly transitions from one guide rail to the next when activated by the user. The arm can be used to push a blade rotation lever connected to the blade holder assembly. The convertible knife also includes a slider assembly that connects a slider button to the blade holder assembly, the slider button being surrounded by a safety frame to prevent accidental movement of the slider assembly. The blade holder assembly includes an internal track that facilitates smooth sliding of the blade holder assembly when activated by the slider assembly. The slider assembly includes a blade pull stop to prevent movement of the blade holder assembly in blade mode. The convertible knife assembly also includes a paint can opener located at its rear end.

[0038] In various embodiments, a convertible knife is disclosed, comprising: a knife housing having a hollow interior; a blade holder assembly slidably deployed within the knife housing; a blade clamping assembly rotatably coupled to the blade holder assembly; and a blade release assembly coupled to the blade clamping assembly and including three blade pins to securely hold the blade in the blade clamping assembly.

[0039] In various embodiments, a dual-mode knife is disclosed, comprising a hollow knife housing, a blade holder assembly disposed within the hollow knife housing, and a slider button coupled to the blade holder assembly and the hollow knife housing. The slider button may include two pawls to engage with a stop member coupled to the hollow knife housing and retain the blade holder assembly in one of a plurality of predetermined positions within the hollow knife housing.

[0040] In various embodiments, a method for switching from a first operating mode to a second operating mode in a dual-mode knife is disclosed. The method includes: pressing a slider button with an integrated ratchet to slide a blade holder assembly forward within a hollow knife housing; and rotating a blade clamping assembly coupled to the blade holder assembly from a first position to a second position to switch from the first operating mode to the second operating mode. The blade holder assembly includes a network of guide slots having a plurality of guide slots, each guide slot having a pin lifting portion.

[0041] Construction contractors, builders, carpet installers, DIY workers, transport operations using cutting tools, and warehouse workers frequently use multi-purpose knives (sometimes called box cutters) to cut cardboard boxes, sheets, ropes, materials, and for other similar cutting applications. Beyond cutting applications, painters, construction workers, and other repair, cleaning, or manufacturing personnel often need to use flat, hard tools (such as razor blades) to scrape away stains, glue, paint, and other surface contaminants from various surfaces such as glass, countertops, floors, doors, and other hard surfaces. Alternatively, most multi-purpose knives on the market have a single operating blade. Some have a storage compartment within the knife body for quicker and easier access to new, sharpened blades. The need for cutting and scraping often occurs within the same project or activity. Therefore, users typically need to carry two different tools, one for cutting and one for scraping.

[0042] Therefore, there is a need for a single tool that can be used as both a cutter and a scraper, which can be quickly and easily adapted to either function without using other tools or having to disassemble and reassemble them into different configurations.

[0043] It should be noted that directions, orientations, and other relative terms such as "front," "back," "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," "internal," "external," "downward," "upward," "facing forward," "facing downward," "vertical," "horizontal," and "diagonal" are used to describe distinguishing features of the system or apparatus itself, either directly or relative to the main body. For example, if the front portion or front surface of the system or object is identified in the description, then the back or rear is defined as the portion or surface opposite to the front surface, left is defined as the left side when observing the front surface, and so on. How orientation is defined is not important as long as the direction can be clearly identified based on the description and accompanying drawings.

[0044] Figure 1AAn exemplary view of a convertible blade in a scraping configuration is shown. In various embodiments, the scraping configuration view 100 includes a convertible blade 109, a blade housing 101, a blade 102, a slider assembly 108, a slider button 103, a slider safety frame 104, a blade clamp assembly 105, a paint can opener 106, and a cutting edge 107. Section AA is also shown.

[0045] In various embodiments, the convertible blade 109 can be used simultaneously in one of two operating modes. The first operating mode is a cutting mode, in which the convertible blade 109 is in blade configuration. The second operating mode is a scraping mode, in which the convertible blade is in scraper configuration. The user or operator can switch the convertible blade 109 between the cutting mode and the scraping mode. The switching between the two modes is performed by the operator by sliding the slider assembly 108 up and down along a portion of the length of the convertible blade 109 between its front end (from which the blade 102 extends) and its rear end (to which the paint can opener 106 is attached).

[0046] In various embodiments, the blade 102 is held in place by the blade clamp assembly 105, which is further described below with reference to other figures.

[0047] In various embodiments, the slider assembly 108 includes a slider safety frame 104 surrounding the slider button 103. In most cases, the slider safety frame 104 prevents the slider button 103 from being accidentally pressed.

[0048] In some embodiments, as further described below with reference to other figures, the blade holder assembly 105 may be coupled to the blade holder and slider assembly 108.

[0049] In various embodiments, the paint can opener 106 can be coupled to the rear end of the convertible blade 109 and can be used to open the paint can or as a small lever to pry open the cap, lid or other similar edge.

[0050] In various embodiments, the blade housing 101 is hollow to accommodate the sliding blade holder assembly, and is provided with internal recesses and edges to control the positioning of the blade holder assembly.

[0051] Figure 1B It shows the cut structure Figure 1A An exemplary view of a convertible blade. In various embodiments, the cutting configuration view 125 includes a blade housing 101, a slider assembly 108, a blade 102, a cutting edge 107, and a blade front opening 126.

[0052] In various embodiments, the blade clamping assembly 105 holding the blade 102 enters and exits the blade housing 101 through the blade front opening 126. When transitioning between two operating modes (cutting and scraping), the blade clamping assembly 105 extends outward from the blade housing 101 through the blade front opening 126 and rotates in the appropriate direction to switch from one operating mode to another, as further described below with reference to other figures. The blade clamping assembly 105 can also be fully retracted into the housing 101 for user safety and also to protect the sharp cutting edge 107. In this configuration, the blade 102 and the blade clamping assembly 105 are not visible externally.

[0053] In various implementations, the cutting edge is rotated 90 degrees between the cutting mode and the scraping mode, thereby producing an orthogonal orientation relative to each other for the blade configuration and the scraper configuration.

[0054] Figure 1C A paint can opener is shown. Figure 1A An exemplary view of the rear end of the convertible blade. In various embodiments, paint can opener view 150 includes a blade housing 101 and a paint can opener 106.

[0055] In various embodiments, the paint can opener 106 can be a straight rod, while in other embodiments it can be a curved rod. In other embodiments, the paint can opener 106 can be in the form of a hook. Generally, the paint can opener can be any form suitable for prying open a tightly closed pressure-fit cap on the container.

[0056] Figure 2A It shows the deployment in Figure 1A An exemplary cross-sectional view of the blade holder assembly within a convertible knife. In various embodiments, the blade holder assembly view 200 includes a blade 102, a slider button 103, a slider safety frame 104, a blade clamp assembly 105, a slider assembly 108, a blade holder assembly 201, a slider bar 202, a slider arm 203, and a slider finger 204.

[0057] In various embodiments, the blade holder assembly 105 is fitted within the blade holder assembly 201 and can slide into and out of the blade holder assembly 201 under user control.

[0058] In various embodiments, the blade holder assembly 201 itself is part-way fitted within the blade housing 101 and partially slides within the blade housing 101 via user action using the slider assembly 108. When the user presses the slider button 103 and pushes the slider assembly 108 forward (towards the blade front opening 126) within the blade housing 101, the slider arm 203 is also pushed forward, pushing the slider finger 204, which in turn pushes the blade holder assembly 201 forward and partially away from the blade housing 101 through the blade front opening 126 until it strikes a stop within the blade housing 101, as described below with respect to other figures. At this time, the blade holder assembly 201 does not move relative to the blade housing 101. If the user pushes the slider assembly 108 forward, the slider finger 204 will cause the blade clamp assembly 105 to rotate and change the operating mode of the convertible blade.

[0059] In various embodiments, the user can also use the slider assembly 108 to completely move the blade holder 201 back into the housing 101, hiding the blade 102 and the blade clamping assembly 105.

[0060] In various embodiments, as shown in the figures, the sliding bar 202 is integrated into the housing or body of the blade holder assembly 201 to reduce the contact area between the outer surface of the blade holder assembly 201 and the inner surface of the blade housing 101. This reduces friction between the holder assembly 201 and the blade housing 101 during the sliding of the blade holder assembly 201 to deploy or store the blade 102 or to change the operating mode of the blade.

[0061] Figure 2B An exemplary view of the blade holder assembly in cutting mode is shown. In various embodiments, the blade holder assembly view 225 includes a blade holder 201, a slider 202, a blade 102, a cutting edge 107, a blade release button 226, and a blade holder stop 227.

[0062] In various embodiments, during various sliding operations initiated by the user using the sliding component 108, the sliding strip 202 on the outer surface of the blade holder assembly 201 reduces the friction between the blade holder assembly 201 and the blade housing 101.

[0063] In various embodiments, the blade release button 226 is used to release and / or replace the blade 102, for example, when the blade becomes dull and a new, sharper blade is needed. The user can activate the blade release button 226 by pushing it in a direction parallel to the normal vector defining the surface plane of the blade 102 held in the blade holder assembly 105 and toward the top surface of the blade holder assembly 201, which is coupled with the slide bar 202 (in this figure, the release button 226 is pulled upwards or pulled out of the paper). This direction is also perpendicular to the surface plane of the blade 102.

[0064] In various embodiments, the blade holder stop 227 is incorporated into the blade holder assembly 201 to prevent the blade holder assembly 201 from sliding within the blade housing 101 beyond a specific point defined by a corresponding stop incorporated inside the blade housing 101. Thus, when the user presses the slider button 103 to push the blade holder assembly 201 forward, the blade holder assembly 201 stops relative to the blade housing 101, allowing the blade clamping assembly 105 to begin rotating and changing the operating mode of the convertible blade 109.

[0065] Figure 2C An exemplary exploded view of the blade holder assembly and the blade in scraper mode is shown. In various embodiments, exploded view 250 includes a blade holder assembly 201, a blade 102, a cutting edge 107, a slider arm 203, a slider finger 204, a lower blade holder 251, a blade holder stop 227, a blade holder spring 252, a slider finger spring 253, a blade holder pivot 254, an upper blade holder 255, and a slider guide pin 257.

[0066] In various embodiments, the blade 102 is held between a lower blade holder 251 and an upper blade holder 255, which are connected to a slider assembly via slider fingers 204 and slider arms 203. As previously described, the blade holder assembly 105 and its components are assembled within the blade holder assembly 105.

[0067] In various embodiments, the blade clamp spring 252 pushes the blade 102 upward toward the upper blade clamp 255 to reliably engage the perforation or hole in the blade 102 with the corresponding protrusions on the lower blade clamp 251 and the upper blade clamp 255, as further described below with reference to other figures.

[0068] In various embodiments, the blade holder pivot 254 is fitted into a corresponding pivot hole in the housing of the blade holder assembly 201. When transitioning between cutting and scraping modes, the blade holder assembly 105 and the blade 102 held therein rotate about the holder pivot 254.

[0069] In various embodiments, the slider finger spring 253 is used to stabilize the slider finger 204 by pressing it against the inner wall of the housing of the blade holder assembly 201 and to prevent it from buckling or bending when pushed by the slider arm 203.

[0070] Figure 3A It shows the scraped structure Figure 1A An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible blade. In various embodiments, cross-sectional view 300 includes... Figure 1AThe cross section AA, blade 102, blade edge 107, blade clamp assembly 105, blade holder assembly 201, bottom portion 301 and top portion 302 of the blade housing 101, and slider assembly 108 are available to the user through these components.

[0071] In various embodiments, the different layers shown in the figure support the blade 102 from all directions (top, bottom, and sides) to firmly hold the blade 102 in place during cutting and scraping. The structural support provided by the blade housing 101, the blade holder assembly 201, and the blade clamping assembly 105 creates a robust and stable blade assembly for handling high-intensity cutting and scraping operations. The forces applied to the blade 102 and / or the cutting edge 107 during cutting and scraping can include thrust and pull forces along the longitudinal axis of the blade housing 101, which extends from the front opening 126 to the rear end of the blade housing 101 where the paint can opener 106 is located. Additional forces can be applied to the blade 102 in a direction from one exposed sharp corner of the blade 102 (on the edge of the cutting edge 107) to another corner, particularly when the corners of the blade are used for cutting or scraping in an asymmetrical manner (relative to the centerline or center point of the blade 102).

[0072] Furthermore, by applying asymmetrical movements and forces by the user during cutting and scraping, torques or moments can be generated in various directions and around various geometric axes of the blade 102. The aforementioned support structure resists these forces and torques applied in various directions by completely and firmly surrounding the blade 102. For example, during cutting using the sharp corners and edges of the blade 102, a torque is generated between the user's hand holding the blade housing 101 and the blade angle pushing against the working surface. This torque tends to cause the blade to rotate about the central normal vector of its blade surface. This torque is resisted by the pin in the top notch and central trapezoidal perforation of the blade 102 (described further below with reference to other figures). The structural support is further described below with reference to other figures.

[0073] Figure 3B It shows Figure 1A An exemplary side view of the convertible blade. In various embodiments, side view 325 includes a blade housing 101, a blade clamping assembly 105, an upper end bevel 326, a lower end bevel 327, a blade centerline 328, an upper tilt angle A, a lower tilt angle B, an upper distance 329 (D1) from the top portion 302 of the housing to the blade centerline 328, a lower distance 330 (D2) from the bottom portion 301 of the housing to the blade centerline 328, and a scraping surface 331.

[0074] In various embodiments, the upper angle A is greater than the lower angle B, and the upper distance D1 is greater than the lower distance D2, resulting in a smaller scraping angle when the convertible blade 109 is in scraping mode. In cutting mode, this configuration does not change the cutting angle of the blade or the operation of the blade. In this asymmetrical configuration, the upper angle A is greater than the lower angle B, making the lower angle B smaller than in the symmetrical configuration (by the basic geometry, the lower angle B between the lower bevel 327 and the blade centerline 328 is equal to the angle between the lower bevel 327 and the surface 331 being scraped), the scraping blade scrapes more closely parallel to the scraping surface 331 and removes more stains or contaminants, such as paint or chewing gum, from the scraping surface 331.

[0075] Figure 4A This illustrates a blade rotation slot within the housing of a convertible blade. Figure 1B An exemplary view of a convertible blade. In various embodiments, view 400 includes a blade housing 101, a blade 102, a paint can opener 106, a slider assembly 108, a blade holder assembly 201, and a blade rotation slot 401.

[0076] In various implementation methods, as described above regarding Figure 2A As described, the blade holder assembly 201 can be positioned at different points within the blade housing 101 and along the length of the blade housing 101 based on user actions. When the user presses the slider button 103 to move the slider assembly 108 forward within the blade housing 101, the blade holder assembly 201 also moves forward until it stops, allowing the blade clamping assembly 105 to continue moving forward relative to the blade housing 101 to transition from one mode to another. The transition between modes (cutting mode and scraping mode) is achieved through rotation of the blade clamping assembly 105. For rotation to be allowed, the blade clamping assembly 105 must move forward sufficiently to allow the blade 102 to clear the walls and cavities of the blade housing 101. The blade rotation slot 401 accommodates the rotation of the blade clamping assembly 105 by allowing the blade 102 to begin rotating before it has completely exited the blade housing 101 through the blade front opening 126.

[0077] In various embodiments, the rear end of the blade holder assembly 201 (opposite to the blade end) is connected to a frame spring (not shown), which in turn is connected to the rear end of the blade housing 101 near the paint can opener 106. When the user presses the slider button 103 and pushes the blade holder assembly 201 forward, the frame spring is also pulled forward and extended. When the slider button 103 is released, the frame spring pulls the blade holder assembly 201 backward until it is positioned in a recess in the blade housing 101. Thus, the user typically pushes the slider assembly 108 forward and causes the frame spring to pull it backward. In other embodiments, a frame spring is not used or is not included in the blade housing 101, and the user manually pushes the slider assembly 108 forward and backward by pressing the slider button 103. In any embodiment, the user has the option to manually move the slider assembly 108 forward and backward.

[0078] Figure 4B It shows the cut structure Figure 1B An exemplary cross-sectional view of the convertible knife. In various embodiments, cross-sectional view 430 includes a knife housing 101, a blade 102, a blade clamp assembly 105, a blade holder assembly 201, a blade release button 226, a first blade pin 431, a second blade pin 432, a first release pivot end 433, a second release pivot end 434, a trapezoidal pin 435, and a lower housing wall 436.

[0079] In various embodiments, the blade 102 is securely held within the blade clamping assembly 105 by engagement of a blade perforation with a corresponding protrusion engaged in the clamping assembly 105. More specifically, some razor blades (such as blade 102) have two perforations or notches on the non-cutting tip edge of the blade (the side opposite the sharp cutting edge 107), which engage with two corresponding pins in common existing box cutters to securely hold the blade. However, in scraping mode, the scraping force applied to the edge 107 generates a force and / or torque (a couple causing rotation of the rigid body) relative to the tip notch of the blade, which may be sufficient to displace the blade 102 from the blade holder of an existing scraper (functionally similar to the blade clamping assembly 105). The resulting torque can be used to rotate the blade about various axes of rotation, thus tending to displace or twist and deform the blade. As is known in the mechanical field, torque is a rotational force, also called a couple, which is generated by two separate forces separated by a certain distance (called the torque arm). These two forces tend to cause a rigid body on which they act to rotate, such as the action of a wrench or screwdriver on a screw head. By adding a third perforation in the form of a trapezoidal protrusion or pin 435, the forces and torques generated by the scraping forces acting on all points (including the center and corners) of the cutting edge 107 are resisted and canceled out, thereby firmly holding the blade 102 in place. The sides of the trapezoidal pin 435 are straight and resistant to rotation, unlike round or curved pins in insertion holes or notches. In other embodiments, the trapezoidal pin 435 and its receiving perforation can be designed to have other shapes, such as rectangular, square, or irregular or regular shapes, with straight or asymmetrical edges or corners that resist torques in various directions of rotation.

[0080] In various embodiments, the top notch of the blade 102 is engaged and held in place by a first blade pin 431 and a second blade pin 432, and similarly, the trapezoidal perforation is engaged by a trapezoidal pin 435. To release the blade from the blade holder assembly 105, the user actuates the blade release button 226 when the blade holder assembly 105 partially exits the blade housing 101, for example, when in cutting mode. The blade release button 226 rotates about a first release pivot end 433 and a second release pivot end 434. This movement causes the blade pins 431, 432, and 435 to be pulled out of their corresponding receiving perforations and release the blade 102 for removal and replacement by the user.

[0081] In various embodiments, the blade release button 226 is accessible to the user in the blade configuration (cutting mode) and inaccessible in the scraper configuration (scraping mode). In cutting mode, the blade release button 226 is visible and accessible to the user because it is located on the opposite side of the cutting edge 107, as shown in the figure. In scraping mode, the blade release button rotates with the blade, is concealed within the blade housing 101, and is inaccessible to the user, as at least... Figure 1A As shown in the other accompanying figures described below, in scraping mode, the cutting edge 107 is outside the housing 107, while the blade release button 226, still positioned opposite to the cutting edge 107, has been rotated into the blade housing 101 and is no longer accessible to the user. Similarly, when the blade clamp assembly 105 is retracted by the user to be completely within the blade housing 101, the blade release button 226 is concealed and inaccessible to the user. In these configurations, the blade release button 226 is invisible or inaccessible to the user to provide a safety feature and prevent accidental release of the blade 102 during use or transport.

[0082] In various embodiments, the lower housing wall 436 contacts the blade 102, thereby preventing the blade from rotating downwards (in the same direction as the cutting edge 107). This action of the lower housing wall 436 occurs when the convertible blade 109 is in cutting mode.

[0083] In various embodiments, the blade clamping assembly 105 covers or surrounds a limited portion of the blade 102, which is approximately one-third (1 / 3) of the center of the blade 102, with a variation of ±10% next to the cutting edge 107, without covering the cutting edge, such as... Figure 4B As shown, the two sharp corners of the blade 102 (one sharp corner at each of the two ends of the blade's sharp edge) are exposed to a greater extent for better and deeper scraping and cutting. This configuration contrasts with the blade clamp assembly 105, which extends its coverage of the blade 102 to the vicinity of the sharp corners of the blade 102, leaving a significantly smaller than one-third portion of each sharp corner of the blade 102 exposed.

[0084] Figure 4C A blade clamp assembly is shown. Figure 1A An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible knife. In various embodiments, cross-sectional view 440 includes a knife housing 101, a blade holder assembly 105 without the blade inserted, a front opening 126, and a lower stop 441 for the blade holder.

[0085] In various embodiments, when the blade clamp assembly 105 is not holding a blade, the lower stop 441 prevents the blade clamp assembly 105 from rotating by abutting against the bottom edge of the blade clamp assembly 105, as shown. The lower stop 441 may also provide additional structural support around the blade clamp assembly 105 to further prevent it from moving or clicking during prolonged use and throughout its lifespan.

[0086] Figure 4D It shows Figure 1B An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible blade, wherein the blade is in a retracted state. In various embodiments, cross-sectional view 450 includes a blade housing 101, a blade 102, a blade front opening 126, and a stop 451 on the blade holder.

[0087] In various embodiments, when the blade assembly 105 is fully retracted into the blade housing 101, the upper stop 451 of the blade holder prevents the blade holder assembly 105 from rotating by abutting against the bottom edge of the blade holder assembly 105, as shown. The upper stop 451 of the blade holder may also provide additional structural support around the blade holder assembly 105 to further prevent it from moving or clicking during prolonged use and throughout its lifespan.

[0088] Figure 4E It shows Figure 1A An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible knife has top and bottom structural supports for the blade. In various embodiments, cross-sectional view 460 includes a knife housing 101, a blade 102, a blade clamping assembly 105, a blade holder assembly 201, a bottom portion of the housing 301, a top portion of the housing 302, and a housing holder stop 461.

[0089] In various embodiments, various structures and rigid layers surround the blade 102 to securely support and hold it in place during use. More specifically, the housing bottom portion 301, housing top portion 302, blade holder assembly 201, and blade clamping assembly 105 form rigid layers around the blade 102 to securely hold it in place during cutting and / or scraping.

[0090] In various embodiments, when the blade holder assembly 201 moves forward, the blade holder stop 227 (see...) Figure 2BThe impact of the blade holder assembly 201 against the housing stop 461 determines the extent of forward movement of the blade holder assembly 201. As previously described, the blade holder stop 227 is engaged with the blade holder assembly 201 to prevent the blade holder assembly 201 from sliding within the blade housing 101 beyond the point defined by the housing stop 461 engaged inside the blade housing 101. Thus, when the user moves the slider assembly 108 to push the blade holder assembly 201 forward, the blade holder assembly 201 impacts the housing stop 461 and stops relative to the blade housing 101. This prevented movement of the blade holder assembly 201 allows the blade clamp assembly 105 to begin rotating and change the operating mode of the convertible blade 109.

[0091] Figure 4F It shows Figure 1A An exemplary cross-sectional view of a convertible knife having side structural supports for the blade. In various embodiments, cross-sectional view 470 includes a knife housing 101, a blade 102, a blade clamping assembly 105, a first side support 471, and a second side support 472.

[0092] In various embodiments, in the scraping mode, the blade clamping assembly 105 is surrounded by two side supports 471 and 472 incorporated in the blade housing 101 to physically and structurally support the blade clamping assembly on its sides and prevent it from moving from one side to the other.

[0093] Figure 5A An exemplary exploded view of the blade clamp assembly is shown. In various embodiments, the exploded view 500 includes a blade 102, a cutting edge 107, a blade release 226, a lower blade clamp 251, a blade clamp pivot 254, an upper blade clamp 255, a first blade pin 431, a second blade pin 432, a trapezoidal pin 435, a trapezoidal central through hole 501, and a trapezoidal pin ramp 502.

[0094] In various embodiments, the blade 102 is clamped between the lower part 251 and the upper part 255 of the blade holder, and is also secured by the first blade pin 431, the second blade pin 432 and the trapezoidal pin 435 inserted into the trapezoidal central through hole 501 to keep the blade 102 firmly in place.

[0095] In various embodiments, the blade holder pivot 254 is fitted into a hole in the blade holder assembly 201, about which the blade holder assembly 105 can rotate to change the operating mode.

[0096] In various embodiments, the trapezoidal pin 435 has a sloping side or ramp 502, which allows the blade to be removed more easily without being confined to the trapezoidal pin 435 by sliding upward along the ramp 502 when the user pulls the blade 102 forward to remove it. The ramp 502 is located on the rearward side of the trapezoidal pin 435 (towards the paint can opener 106). The blade is pulled from the blade holder assembly toward the front of the convertible blade 109. Therefore, when pulled forward to remove, the edge of the trapezoidal central perforation 501 slides upward along the ramp 502.

[0097] In various embodiments, the trapezoidal pin 435 may have other geometric or irregular shapes, such as square, rectangle, ellipse, triangle, star, etc., wherein the shape of the central perforation 501 matches the shape of the pin. In some embodiments, two pins may be used instead of three, one at the top of the blade 102 (opposite to the sharp edge) and one at the central perforation 501 to keep the blade from rotating.

[0098] Figure 5B Another exemplary top view of the blade clamp assembly is shown. In various embodiments, view 520 includes blade 102, blade clamp assembly 105, cutting edge 107, blade release button 226, blade clamp pivot 254, and blade rotation lever 521.

[0099] In various embodiments, the blade clamp assembly 105 can be rotated by pushing and rotating the blade rotating rod 521 in the appropriate direction. The blade rotating rod can be rigidly integrated with the blade clamp assembly 105, such that rotation of one causes rotation of the other.

[0100] Figure 5C An exemplary exploded view of the blade clamp assembly is shown. In various embodiments, exploded view 530 includes a blade 102, a cutting edge 107, a lower blade clamp 251, an upper blade clamp 255, a blade clamp pivot 254, a blade release button 226, a blade clamp spring 252, a first blade pin 431, a second blade pin 432, a blade trapezoidal pin 435, a blade trapezoidal through-hole 501, a blade top notch 532, and a blade release assembly 533.

[0101] In various embodiments, the blade 102 is enclosed within an upper blade holder 255 and a lower blade holder 251, while a blade holder spring 252 pushes and applies force to hold the blade 102 against the upper blade holder 255. The blade release assembly 533 includes a first blade pin 431, a second blade pin 432, and a trapezoidal pin 435, all of which engage corresponding through-holes in the blade 102. That is, the first blade pin 431 and the second blade pin 432 are inserted into the top notch 532 of the blade 102, and the trapezoidal pin 435 is inserted into the trapezoidal through-hole 501, so that the blade 102 is securely held in place within the blade holder assembly 105. In some embodiments, the trapezoidal through-hole 501 may be located on or near the central region of the blade 102, as shown in the figure. In some embodiments, the trapezoidal pin 435 and the trapezoidal perforation 501 may have shapes other than trapezoidal, such as star-shaped, rectangular, irregular shapes, or any other suitable shapes that can securely hold the blade within the blade clamping assembly 105.

[0102] Figure 6A The diagram shows the cross section AA. Figure 1A An exemplary view of a convertible blade. In various embodiments, view 600 includes a blade housing 101, a blade 102, a slider assembly 108, and a section AA.

[0103] In various embodiments, view 600 shows the convertible blade 109 in scraping mode. Details in section AA are described below with reference to other figures.

[0104] Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A An exemplary cross-section AA. In various embodiments, cross-sectional view 620 includes a blade housing 101, a slider assembly 108, a blade holder assembly 201, a blade housing recess 621, a first slider stop 623, and a second slider stop 622.

[0105] In various embodiments, the blade housing 101 may include a plurality of recesses engaged within its walls to prevent the slider assembly 108 and / or the blade holder assembly 201 from sliding further than certain points under user control. Typically, these recesses prevent the slider assembly 108 and / or the blade holder assembly 201 from moving within the blade housing 101 unless the user presses and holds the slider button 103 to push the slider assembly 108 and the blade holder assembly 201 in a forward or backward direction. The slider button 103 is attached to or integrated with a pawl, which, when not pressed by the user, falls into these recesses built into the interior of the blade housing 101. In some operations (such as changing operating modes), even when the user presses the slider button 103, the blade holder assembly stops at the end of its stroke within the housing 101 to allow the user to further move the slider to achieve rotation of the blade holder assembly 201.

[0106] In various embodiments, during operation, when the blade holder assembly is fully retracted into the blade housing 101, the user can press the slider button 103 to initiate forward movement of the slider assembly 108. Initially, the slider assembly 108 pushes the blade holder assembly 201 and the coupled blade clamp assembly 105 forward as well. Beyond a certain point, where the blade holder stop 227 and the housing stop 461 (see...) Figure 4E They engage and collide with each other. At this point, the blade holder assembly 201 stops moving relative to the blade housing 101, but the blade clamping assembly continues to be engaged by the slider arm 203 and the slider finger 204 (see...). Figure 2C The blade is pushed forward until the blade clamp assembly 105 begins to rotate to switch from one operating mode to another (cutting mode and scraping mode). A similar process and operation are applied in turn to retract the blade clamp assembly 105 into the blade housing 101. To retract the blade clamp assembly 105, the blade is first placed in the cutting mode to allow it to assemble and slide into the blade housing 101 for storage.

[0107] In various embodiments, the interior of the blade housing 101 provides three stops for three predetermined positions of the blade holder assembly 201 within the blade housing 101. These three positions of the blade holder assembly 201 correspond to the three positions of the slider assembly 108. A pawl-engaged stop is attached to the slider button 103, as described below. Figure 6D and 6E As described. The fully retracted position of the blade holder assembly 201, concealed within the hollow blade housing 101, is the first slider stop 623. A pawl engages the slider stop 623 to stop the blade holder assembly 201 in this position. When the slider button 103 is pressed, the first slider stop 623 is bypassed, and the slider assembly 108 and the blade holder assembly 201 slide forward within the blade housing 101 to the second slider stop 622 surrounding the blade housing recess 621. Once the slider button 103 is released, the pawl engages the second slider stop 622 and the blade housing recess 621, thereby holding the blade holder assembly in a second position. In this position, the blade is outside the blade housing and in cutting mode. When the slider button 103 is pressed again, the second slider stop 622 is bypassed, and the slider assembly 108 and the blade holder assembly 201 slide forward to a third position with a housing stop 461 (see [link to third position]). Figure 4E At this time, the edge of the blade holder assembly 201 (see below) Figure 6C (Description) Engage housing frame stop 461 to allow rotation of blade clamp assembly 105, as described later.

[0108] Figure 6CAn exemplary view of a blade holder assembly with a blade holder stop is shown. In various embodiments, view 625 includes a blade holder assembly 201, a slider assembly 108, and a blade holder stop 227.

[0109] In various embodiments, the blade holder assembly 201 moves forward (or backward) by a user action of pressing the slider button 103. Details of the rotational operation of the blade clamp assembly 105 are described below with reference to the other accompanying drawings.

[0110] Figure 6D A blade-pulling stop tab is shown. Figure 6C An exemplary view of the blade holder assembly. In various embodiments, view 630 includes a slider assembly 108, a slider button 103, a blade holder assembly 201, a housing pawl 631, a holder pawl 632, and a blade holder recess 633.

[0111] In various embodiments, the slider button 103 is integrated with the housing pawl 631 and the carrier pawl 632. Each of these pawls serves to limit the movement of the slider assembly within the tool housing 101. The housing pawl 631 is directly connected to the slider button 103, and when the slider button 103 is pressed by the user, it also causes the housing pawl 631 to be pushed downwards, thereby passing through the tool housing recess 621 (see See). Figure 6B This allows the blade holder assembly 201 to slide within the blade housing 101. A pawl 632 is fitted within the pawl recess 633 and restricts the movement of the slider assembly 108 relative to the blade holder assembly 201. The pawl 632 engages the slider assembly 108 with the blade holder assembly 201, performing two distinct functions. One function is to push the blade assembly 201 forward and backward together with the slider assembly 108 when the slider button 103 is pressed. The other function is to prevent the blade holder assembly 201 from sliding forward or backward relative to the blade housing 101 when the slider button 103 is not pressed. The latter function also prevents the blade holder assembly 201 from moving forward during cutting mode when the blade 102 is pulled out and away from the blade front opening 126.

[0112] Figure 6E A slider button stop is shown. Figure 6C An exemplary exploded cross-sectional view of the blade holder assembly. In various embodiments, the exploded cross-sectional view 640 includes a slider safety frame 104, a slider button 103, a blade holder assembly 201, a housing pawl 631, a holder pawl 632, a safety frame connector 641, and a safety frame receiver 642.

[0113] In various embodiments, the slider assembly 108, including the slider safety frame 104 and the slider button 103, is connected to the blade holder assembly 201 via two different couplings. The slider button 103 is connected to the blade holder assembly 201 via a pawl 632 fitted within a pawl recess 633, while the slider safety frame 104 is connected via a safety frame coupling 641 fitted within a safety frame receiver 642. When the user presses the slider button 103, the pawl 631 disengages from the blade housing 101 to allow the blade holder assembly 201 to begin sliding. The force exerted by the user's finger or thumb on the slider assembly 108 is transmitted to the blade holder assembly 201 via the pawl 632 and the safety frame coupling 641 to move the blade holder assembly 201.

[0114] Figure 6F An exemplary cross-sectional view of a slider assembly coupled to a blade holder assembly is shown. In various embodiments, cross-sectional view 650 includes a blade holder assembly 201, a slider assembly 108, a slider button 103, a slider arm 203, and a slider button return spring 651.

[0115] In various implementations, when the user presses the slider button 103, the slider button reset spring 651 is also pressed. When the user releases the slider button 103, the slider button reset spring 651 returns the slider button 103 to its default or unpressed position, ready for another press by the user.

[0116] Figure 7A An exemplary cross-sectional view of a blade holder assembly is shown, having section AA and an internal track for guide blade configuration transition. In various embodiments, cross-sectional view 700 includes blade holder assembly 201, blade clamp pivot hole 701, guide slot network 702, holder recess 703, holder recess sidewall 704, guide rail or slot 705, and slot pin lifting portion 706. Section AA is also shown in the following discussion with reference to other figures.

[0117] In various embodiments, a guide slot (or track) network 702 is used to actuate the rotation of the blade holder assembly 105 within the internal space of the blade holder assembly 201. Slider guide pin 257 (see...) Figure 2C (Further description below with reference to other figures) Mounted within the guide slot (or track) 705, and traversing the guide slot network 702 in one direction (clockwise-CW or counterclockwise-CCW in various embodiments) during user movement. If the user continuously cycles through the two operating modes (cutting, scraping) of the convertible blade 109, the slider guide pin 257 traverses the guide slot network 702 in the same direction for each cycle.

[0118] In various embodiments, the guide slot network 702 includes a plurality of guide slots 705. Each guide slot 705 in the guide slot network 702 is a slot segment within the slot network and has a pin lifting / lowering portion 706, which is a stable lifting and lowering and holding area for the slider guide pin 257 until the slider guide pin 257 is forced to move onto the next guide slot and be placed in the new pin lifting / lowering portion 706. In this figure, the pin lifting / lowering areas are labeled A, B, C, and D.

[0119] In various embodiments, each guide slot 705 has an upward inclination away from the bottom or base plate of the frame recess 703, leading to a slot pin lifting section 706, ready to move to the next guide slot segment. Before each of the subsequent slot pin lifting sections 706, a vertical descent section is incorporated, which lowers the slider guide pin 257 into the slot pin lifting section 706 and also counteracts the upward inclination of the guide slot 705. In this sense, the guide slot network 702 resembles a zigzag path with upward and downward return relative to the base plate of the frame recess 703. Figure 7A In the diagram, the vertical descending portion preceding each pin lifting section 706 is labeled X, Y, Z, and W. Each pin lifting section 706 of each guide slot 705 is a straight extension of the guide slot 705, but angled relative to the next guide slot in the traversal sequence of the slider guide pin 257 through the guide slot network 702. The pin lifting section 706 provides additional space beyond the operating length of the guide slot 705 (defined as the length from one guide slot 705 to the starting point of the next guide slot 705) to prevent the slider guide pin 257 from prematurely entering the next slot segment or retracting into the previous slot segment, or engaging with the sidewall of the guide slot 705.

[0120] Figure 7B The internal guide slot of the blade holder assembly is shown. Figure 7A An exemplary view of section AA. In various embodiments, section AA 710 includes blade holder assembly 201, holder recess 703, holder recess sidewall 704, slot pin lifting portion 706, slot vertical descent portion 711, inclined slot bottom plate 712, and pin lifting portion bottom plate 713.

[0121] In various embodiments, the section of the guide groove 705 shown has an upwardly inclined groove bottom plate 712 and a groove vertical drop section 711, which leads to a groove pin lifting section 706 having a pin lifting section bottom plate 713. A slider guide pin 257, moving along the guide groove 705 toward the pin lifting section 706, follows the inclined groove bottom plate 712 upwards and then falls from the groove vertical drop section 711 into the pin lifting section bottom plate 713. The slider guide pin 257 undergoes the same movement when traversing the guide groove network 702.

[0122] Figure 7C An exemplary operational diagram illustrating the transformation of the blade configuration is shown. In various embodiments, operational diagram 720 illustrates a linearized version of the guide groove network 702 and the vertical path of the slider guide pin 257 as it traverses the guide groove network 702.

[0123] The zigzag curves depict the vertical path of the slider guide pin 257 as it traverses the guide slot network 702, falling from each slot's vertical drop section 711 (labeled X, Y, Z, and W). Starting from the left side of the figure, the slider guide pin 257 falls from the vertical drop section W onto the flat (neither downward nor upward inclined) slot pin riser section A. Continuing its traverse, the slider guide pin 257 moves upward on the upwardly inclined slot bottom plate 712 until it reaches the next slot's vertical drop section X and falls onto the slot pin riser section B. This up-and-down movement of the slider guide pin 257 along the path of the guide slot network 702 continues until the slider guide pin 257 cycles back to the slot's vertical drop section W, and this cycle can begin again in the same manner.

[0124] In various embodiments, the movement of the slider guide pin 257 is actuated by the user pressing the slider button 103, which in turn pushes the blade holder assembly 201 in the same direction. The slider arm 203 is connected via the slider fingers 204 (see...). Figure 2A The slider guide pin 257 is driven through the guide slot network 702. The user moves the slider guide pin 257 through the guide slot network 702 and switches the knife's operating mode from cutting to scraping and vice versa by a single, identical action: pushing the slider assembly 108 forward, letting it return, and then pushing it forward again. The user does not use different actions to transition from one mode to another and return to the initial mode.

[0125] In various embodiments, the slider guide pin 257 must move in one direction (from slot pin lifting portion A to B to C to D and back to A) because each slot vertical descending portion 711 (X, Y, Z, W) prevents the slider guide pin 257 from moving backward.

[0126] Figure 7D An exemplary view of a blade clamp assembly with a clamping pivot and a blade rotating rod is shown. In various embodiments, view 730 includes a blade 102, a cutting edge 107, a blade clamp assembly 105, a blade release button 226, a blade clamping pivot 254, a blade rotating rod 521, a blade rotating spring 731, a spring holder end 732, and a spring clamp end 733.

[0127] In various embodiments, the blade rotation spring 731 is internally connected to the blade holder assembly 201 via the spring holder end 732 and to the blade clamp assembly 105 via the spring clamp end 733. When the slider finger 204 pushes against the blade rotation rod 521, as described in more detail below with reference to other figures, the blade rotation spring 731 assists in the rotation of the blade clamp assembly 105. The blade rotation spring 731 facilitates the rotation of the blade in both the CW and CCW directions.

[0128] In various embodiments, the blade 102 is equally exposed on both sides of the blade clamping assembly 105 to provide sufficient blade exposure in both the cutting edge and sharp corner or cutting edge 107 for deeper scraping and cutting into the material compared to a larger coverage of the blade by the blade clamping assembly 105 (the covered or surrounded portion of the blade area). In some embodiments, the blade...

[0129] Figure 7E An exemplary view of a blade mode switching mechanism in cutting mode is shown. In various embodiments, view 740 includes a blade 102, a blade holder assembly 201, a blade release 226, a blade clamping pivot 254, a slider finger 204, a slider guide pin 257, a blade rotating rod 521, a guide slot network 702, a blade rotation spring 731, a spring holder end 732, a spring clamping end 733, a slider arm-finger connector 741, a slider finger end 742, a spring pivot axis 743, and slot pin lifting portions A, B, C, and D.

[0130] In various embodiments, the slider guide pin 257 placed in the groove pin lifting part A corresponds to a knife structure (cutting mode), while the slider guide pin 257 placed in the groove pin lifting part C corresponds to a scraper structure (scraping mode).

[0131] In various embodiments, the slider arm-finger connector 741 is used to rotatably connect the slider arm 203 to the slider finger 204 (e.g., as a pin connector). This rotatable connection allows the slider finger 204 to be pushed forward by the slider arm 203 while also partially rotating to engage the slider guide pin 257 to follow the guide groove 705 in the guide groove network 702.

[0132] In various embodiments where the slider guide pin 257 is initially resting at the slotted pin lifting portion A and the blade is in the cutting mode shown, when the user pushes the slider finger 204 forward (towards the blade 102) via the slider button 103, the end 742 of the slider finger pushes the slider guide pin 257 into one of the guide slots 705 leading to the slotted pin lifting portion B. This movement of the end 742 of the slider finger also actuates the blade rotation lever 521 to rotate the blade clamp assembly 105 CW. The spring clamp end 733, which is connected to the blade clamp assembly 105, also rotates in the same manner. This rotation of the spring clamp end 733, which is initially on the right side of the spring pivot axis 743, causes it to cross to the left side of the spring pivot axis 743, thereby reversing the torque force about the blade clamp pivot axis 254 and thus assisting the CW rotation of the blade clamp assembly 105. This process is described below. Figure 7F Further details are provided in the text.

[0133] Figure 7F An exemplary view of a blade mode switching mechanism transitioning between cutting and scraping modes is shown. In various embodiments, view 750 includes a blade 102, slider fingers 204, blade rotation lever 521, guide groove network 702, spring pivot axis 743, and rotational spring bend angle 751.

[0134] In various embodiments, when the blade clamp assembly 105 is partially rotated, it is sufficient to cause the spring clamp end 733 to cross to the left of the spring pivot axis 743. During this transition of the spring clamp end 733 from the right side to the left side of the spring pivot axis 743, the blade rotation spring 731 is compressed by bending and reducing the rotation spring bending angle 751, thereby storing energy. Once the spring clamp end 733 has passed the left side, it begins to decompress, releasing its energy and transmitting further CW rotational force to the blade clamp assembly 105 to complete a 90-degree rotation of the blade clamp assembly 105 relative to its original position. In this configuration, compared with the blade configuration (such as...) Figure 7E Compared to the orientation shown, the cutting edge 107 has rotated 90 degrees. At this point, the user releases the slider button 103, pulling the slider finger 204 back, causing the slider guide pin 257 to move from the slotted pin lifting portion B to the slotted pin lifting portion C. Below... Figure 7G The process is further described in the text.

[0135] Figure 7G An exemplary view of a blade mode switching mechanism in scraping mode is shown. In various embodiments, view 760 includes a blade 102, a slider finger 204, a blade rotation lever 521, and a blade rotation spring 731.

[0136] In various embodiments, in this figure, the blade 102 is shown facing forward and in scraping mode. In this configuration, the blade rotation spring 731 is fully depressurized and held to the left of the spring pivot 743. The slider guide pin 257 has been moved to the slot pin lifting portion C, which corresponds to the scraper configuration of the convertible blade 109. In this configuration, the slider button 103 has been released by the user.

[0137] Figure 7H An exemplary view of a blade mode switching mechanism transitioning between scraping and cutting modes is shown. In various embodiments, view 770 includes a blade 102, slider fingers 204, a network of guide grooves 702, and a blade rotation spring 731.

[0138] In various embodiments, the figure illustrates the state of the blade clamp assembly 105, where the user presses the slider button 103 again and moves the slider assembly 108 and slider finger 204 forward, causing the end 742 of the slider finger to press against the blade rotating rod 521, thereby rotating the blade clamp assembly 105 counterclockwise. At this time, the end 733 of the spring clamp also rotates counterclockwise and crosses from the left to the right side of the spring pivot 743, compressing the blade rotating spring 731, thereby generating a torque force to complete the rotation of the blade clamp assembly 105 back to the blade configuration. At this time, the slider guide pin 257 is located at the slotted pin lifting portion D. Refer below for... Figure 7I The process will be described further.

[0139] Figure 7I An exemplary view of a blade mode switching mechanism in cutting mode is shown, while the mechanism is still in a transition state. In various embodiments, view 780 includes a blade 102, a slider finger 204, a blade rotation rod 521, and a blade rotation spring 731.

[0140] In various embodiments, with the reversible blade 102 in this state, the blade 102 is fully rotated to face downwards in cutting mode. The blade rotation spring 731 is also fully depressurized and located to the right of the spring pivot axis 743. At this time, the user has released the slider button 103 and pulled back the slider finger 204, causing the slider guide pin 257 to move from the slot pin lifting portion D to the slot pin lifting portion A, thereby completing the cycle.

[0141] It should be understood that, unless explicitly stated or specified, the steps described in a process are not ordered and may not necessarily be performed or occur in the order described or depicted. For example, step A in a process described prior to step B in the same process may actually be performed after step B. In other words, unless otherwise stated, the set of steps in a process used to achieve the final result can occur in any order.

[0142] Based on the detailed description above, modifications can be made to the claimed invention. While the foregoing description details certain embodiments of the invention and describes the intended best mode, the claimed invention can be practiced in many ways, regardless of the details presented in the text. The details of the system can vary significantly in their implementation details while still being covered by the claimed invention disclosed herein.

[0143] Certain terms used in describing certain features or aspects of this disclosure should not be construed as implying that such terms are redefined herein as limited to any particular characteristic, feature, or aspect of the disclosure associated with that term. Generally, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed as limiting the claimed invention to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless these terms are expressly defined in the foregoing Detailed Description section. Therefore, the actual scope of the claimed invention includes not only the disclosed embodiments but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the claimed invention.

[0144] Those skilled in the art will understand that, in general, the terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., the body of the appended claims), are typically intended to be “open-ended” terms (e.g., the term “comprising” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” etc.). Those skilled in the art will further understand that if there is an intent to introduce a particular number of claim statements, such intent will be explicitly stated in the claims, and without such statements, such intent does not exist. For example, to aid understanding, the appended claims may contain the use of introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce the claim statements. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed as implying that a claim statement introduced by the indefinite article "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing this introduced claim statement to an invention containing only one of such statements, even when the same claim contains the introductory phrase "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and / or "an" should generally be interpreted as meaning "at least one" or "one or more"); the same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce claim statements. Furthermore, even if a specific number of introduced claim statements are explicitly stated, those skilled in the art will recognize that such a statement should generally be interpreted as meaning at least the number stated (e.g., the original statement of "two statements" (without other modifiers) generally means at least two statements or two or more statements). Furthermore, when using conventional designations such as "at least one of A, B, and C," this construction is used where a person skilled in the art would understand the meaning of the conventional designation (e.g., a "system" having at least one of A, B, and C would include, but is not limited to, a system having only A, only B, only C, both A and B, both A and C, both B and C, and / or both A, B, and C). Those skilled in the art will further understand that any transitional conjunction and / or phrase that actually presents two or more alternative terms, whether in the specification, claims, or drawings, should be understood to include the possibility of including one, any one, or both of the terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibility of “A” or “B” or “A and B”.It should also be understood that any phrase in the form of "A / B" should mean any one of "A", "B", "A or B" or "A and B". The construction includes the phrase "and / or" itself.

[0145] The foregoing specification, embodiments, and data provide a complete description of the manufacture and use of the claimed invention. Since the claimed invention can be implemented in many ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the invention is contained within the appended claims. It should also be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but is intended to cover various configurations included in the broadest interpretation of the spirit and scope, in order to cover all such modifications and equivalent configurations.

Claims

1. A convertible knife, comprising: The blade casing has a hollow internal space; A blade holder assembly that is slidably deployed within the blade housing; A blade clamp assembly, which is rotatably connected to the blade holder assembly; as well as A blade release assembly is coupled to the blade clamping assembly and includes at least two blade pins to securely hold the blade in the blade clamping assembly, wherein one of the at least two blade pins engages a notch on the top edge of the blade, and the other of the at least two blade pins engages a central perforation of the blade.

2. The convertible blade of claim 1, further comprising a slider button surrounded by a safety frame coupled to the blade holder assembly.

3. The convertible blade of claim 1 further includes a sliding strip coupled to the blade holder assembly to enhance the slidability of the blade holder assembly within the blade housing.

4. The convertible blade according to claim 1, wherein, The hollow interior includes multiple stops to engage the blade holder assembly and hold it in a predetermined position within the blade housing.

5. The convertible blade according to claim 1, wherein, The blade holder assembly includes a stop to position the blade holder assembly thereby switching the operating mode of the convertible blade.

6. The convertible blade according to claim 1, wherein, The blade clamping assembly includes a blade clamping spring to press and hold the blade within the blade clamping assembly.

7. The convertible knife according to claim 1 further includes a paint can opener.

8. The convertible blade according to claim 1, wherein, The blade clamping assembly includes three blade pins, wherein two of the blade pins engage two notches on the top edge of the blade, and the other of the three blade pins engages the center perforation.

9. A dual-mode knife, comprising: Hollow knife housing; A blade holder assembly, which is deployed within the hollow blade housing; A blade clamping assembly that surrounds a limited portion of the blade to expose more of the blade near the sharp corner of the blade for deeper cutting and scraping; as well as A slider button is connected to the blade holder assembly and the hollow blade housing; The slider button includes at least one pawl to engage with a stop member incorporated in the hollow blade housing and to hold the blade holder assembly in one of several predetermined positions within the hollow blade housing.

10. The dual-mode knife of claim 9, further comprising a blade clamping assembly for holding the blade.

11. The dual-mode knife of claim 9, further comprising a slider assembly including the slider button and a slider safety frame surrounding the slider button.

12. The dual-mode knife according to claim 9, wherein, The first pawl of the slider button engages with a stop in the hollow blade housing, and the second pawl engages with a recess in the blade holder assembly.

13. The dual-mode knife according to claim 10, wherein, The blade is structurally supported by a combination of the blade housing, the blade holder assembly surrounded by the blade housing, and the blade clamping assembly surrounded by the blade holder assembly, wherein the blade is supported on all sides, including the top, bottom, and sides, to resist deformation and movement of the blade.

14. The dual-mode knife according to claim 13, wherein, The blade housing is asymmetrically positioned around the top and bottom of the blade, thereby creating a smaller distance between the blade and the bottom surface of the blade housing, and a larger distance between the blade and the top surface of the blade housing.

15. The dual-mode knife according to claim 13, wherein, The blade clamping assembly is rotatable to form a blade configuration in a first orientation and a scraper configuration in a second orientation.

16. A method for switching a first operating mode to a second operating mode in a dual-mode knife, the method comprising: Press the slider button with an integrated ratchet to slide the blade holder assembly forward in the hollow blade housing; as well as The blade holder assembly connected to the blade holder assembly is rotated from a first position to a second position to switch from the first operating mode to the second operating mode; The blade holder assembly includes a network of guide slots with multiple guide slots, each guide slot having a pin lifting and lowering portion.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising actuating a rotating rod to rotate the blade clamp assembly.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising releasing the slider button to stop the blade holder assembly at a predetermined position within the hollow blade housing.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein, The first position of the blade clamping assembly corresponds to a cutting mode, and the second position of the blade clamping assembly corresponds to a scraping mode.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The blade clamping assembly includes a blade release button, which is inaccessible when the blade clamping assembly is in the scraping mode.

21. A dual-mode knife, comprising: Hollow knife housing; A blade holder assembly, which is deployed within the hollow blade body; as well as A blade clamping assembly for holding a blade, the blade clamping assembly being coupled to the blade holder assembly; The blade is structurally supported by a combination of the blade housing, the blade holder assembly, and the blade clamping assembly, wherein the blade is supported on all sides, including the top, bottom, and sides, to resist deformation and movement of the blade.

22. A dual-mode knife, comprising: Hollow knife housing; A blade holder assembly, which is deployed within the hollow blade body; as well as A blade clamping assembly for holding a blade, the blade clamping assembly being coupled to the blade holder assembly; The blade housing is asymmetrically positioned around the top and bottom of the blade, thereby creating a smaller distance between the blade and the bottom surface of the blade housing, and a larger distance between the blade and the top surface of the blade housing.

Images