Sharpener for sharpening at least one pencil

Abstract

Pencil sharpener (1) for sharpening at least one pencil, wherein the pencil sharpener (1) is designed as a double or multiple pencil sharpener, comprising: - a housing device (2) with a pointing device having at least two pointing channels (4) each defining a pointing channel axis (A1) for a pencil to be pointed, or with several pointing devices, each having at least one pointing channel axis (A1) defining a pointing channel axis (A1) for a pencil to be pointed; - a locking device (6) with at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) which are arranged in a plane of movement (E) oriented at an angle, in particular at right angles, to the axis of the pointed channel (A1), wherein at least one locking element (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) can be moved by movement in the plane of movement (E) into at least one open position in which the pointed channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the pointed channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened; - a reset device (7) with at least one reset element (7.1) which is configured to exert a reset force on the at least one locking element (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) moving it into or towards the closed position, wherein the at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) are coupled to each other via the at least one reset element (7.1), wherein the at least one reset element (7.1) completely surrounds the at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a pencil sharpener for sharpening at least one pencil, comprising a housing device with a sharpening device having at least one sharpening channel defining a sharpening channel axis for a pencil to be sharpened and a closing device for closing the at least one sharpening channel.

[0002] Corresponding pencil sharpeners with a housing device having at least one sharpening channel defining a sharpening channel axis for a pencil to be sharpened and a closing device for closing the at least one sharpening channel are known in principle from the prior art in different configurations.

[0003] An example of a corresponding sharpener is disclosed, for example, in DE 29 48 086 A1.

[0004] Nevertheless, there is a need for further improved pencil sharpeners that differ from known sharpeners, particularly with regard to aspects relating to the use of the sharpener, such as the tightness and reliability of the closure of at least one sharpening channel, as well as aspects relating to the manufacture of the sharpener, such as the simplicity of the construction.

[0005] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a pencil sharpener for sharpening at least one pencil that is improved compared to the prior art.

[0006] The problem is solved by a pencil sharpener for sharpening at least one pencil according to independent claim 1. The dependent claims relate to possible embodiments of the pencil sharpener according to independent claim 1.

[0007] A first aspect of the invention relates to a pencil sharpener for sharpening at least one pencil. The pencil sharpener described herein is therefore generally designed for sharpening at least one pencil.

[0008] The sharpener can be designed, for example, for sharpening a drawing, writing, or sketching pencil. In this case, the sharpening mechanism of the sharpener has at least one sharpening element configured for sharpening a drawing, writing, or sketching pencil, in particular a knife-like or knife-shaped element. Such a sharpening element can be made of a metal, optionally ground, in particular steel. Alternatively, the sharpener can be designed, for example, for sharpening a cosmetic pencil, such as an eyeliner or lipstick. In this case, the sharpening mechanism of the sharpener has at least one sharpening element configured for sharpening a cosmetic pencil, in particular a knife-like or knife-shaped element. Such a sharpening element can be made of a metal, optionally ground, in particular steel, or of a plastic, in particular a thermoplastic.

[0009] The pencil sharpener comprises a housing assembly consisting of one or more parts. This housing assembly includes a housing part that defines a receiving space with a specific volume. The housing part can have one or more bottom walls and one or more side walls that define the receiving space. At least one sharpening device of the pencil sharpener can be arranged or formed within the receiving space; the volume can therefore be at least partially occupied by the at least one sharpening device. The remaining volume not occupied by the at least one sharpening device, and thus free of sharpening material, can be used to collect the material removed when a pencil is sharpened.The receiving space can therefore be set up both for the partial receiving of at least one chiseling device and for the receiving of material removed or chiseling waste generated during a chiseling process.

[0010] As mentioned, the housing part can have one or more bottom walls and one or more side walls that define the receiving space. The housing part can therefore be configured to be open on one side; this open-on-one configuration can result, for example, from the absence of a top wall that closes the receiving space (from above) opposite the one or more bottom walls. However, the housing assembly can include at least one cover part, e.g., plate-like or plate-shaped, which can be connected to the housing part, in particular in a way that is detachable without causing damage or destruction, in order to cover the open area of ​​the housing part. Such a cover part can be designed with at least one through-hole, which, in the assembled state of the sharpener, is aligned with an access opening into the at least one sharpening channel.

[0011] The basic geometric shape of the housing component can be chosen arbitrarily. For example, the housing component can have a cylindrical or cylindrical-like shape, a prismatic or prism-like shape, or a polygonal shape, e.g., a triangular, pentagonal, etc. The same applies to the basic geometric shape of a cover component and an optional cap component that can be connected to or is connected to the cover component.

[0012] The pencil sharpener comprises, as indicated, at least one sharpening device. This at least one sharpening device has at least one sharpening channel defining a sharpening channel axis for a pencil to be sharpened. The at least one sharpening channel can have a conical or funnel-shaped geometry. The at least one sharpening channel can be accessible via at least one access opening. The at least one access opening can have a hollow cylindrical or cylindrical geometry.

[0013] The at least one pointing device further comprises at least one pointing element, in particular blade- or cutting-edge-shaped, associated with the at least one pointing channel, such that a pin inserted axially into the at least one pointing channel with respect to the pointing channel axis can be pointed or shaped by rotating it about the pointing channel axis by means of the pointing element in a manner known per se. As mentioned, the pointing waste generated during a corresponding pointing process can be collected in the receiving space.

[0014] As explained above, the pencil sharpener, which is fundamentally configured as a can sharpener, can also be designed as a "double or multiple sharpener." In a double or multiple sharpener design, the sharpener can include several sharpening devices arranged or formed within the housing, as described above. These sharpening devices can differ in that they are capable of sharpening different pencils, i.e., pencils of different dimensions. Specifically, the individual sharpening devices can differ, for example, in their geometric design, i.e., the conical or funnel-shaped shape, the sharpening channels and access openings, and / or in one or more parameters that influence the sharpening properties of the respective sharpening elements, i.e., the arrangement, the grind, the material, etc.

[0015] The pencil sharpener further comprises a locking mechanism with at least two locking elements. Each of the at least two locking elements can have a basic shape defining a base plane, e.g., a strip-like or plate-like form.

[0016] The at least two locking elements are arranged or formed in a plane of movement oriented at an angle, in particular at a right angle, to the axis of the pencil sharpening channel. Specifically, the at least two locking elements are typically arranged or aligned with their respective base planes parallel to the plane of movement. As will be shown below, the arrangement of the at least two locking elements in the plane of movement offers particular advantages with regard to aspects of the sharpener's use, such as the tightness and reliability of the closure of the at least one pencil sharpening channel, as well as with regard to aspects of the sharpener's manufacture, such as the simplicity of the design. As mentioned, the plane of movement is angular, i.e.,In particular, the plane of movement is perpendicular to the axis of the sharpening channel; the plane of movement can thus be a plane arranged or aligned parallel to a bottom plane of the sharpener defined by one or more bottom walls. In particular, the plane of movement can be a plane arranged or aligned parallel to a bottom plane of the sharpener defined by one or more bottom walls above the at least one sharpening channel, i.e., in particular above an access opening into the at least one sharpening channel. Accordingly, the plane of movement can specifically be defined, for example, by an exposed upper surface of a cover part that can be connected to or is connected to a housing part of the sharpener.

[0017] At least one locking element of the locking device can be moved in or within the plane of movement into at least one open position, in which the at least one pointed channel is open for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position, in which the at least one pointed channel is closed for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened. At least one locking element can thus be moved within the plane of movement into at least one first orientation and / or position and into at least one second orientation and / or position, wherein the at least one first orientation and / or position of the at least one locking element corresponds to its at least one closed position and the at least one second orientation and / or position of the at least one locking element corresponds to its at least one open position. The at least one locking element is thus configured, i.e.,in particular on the housing device of the pencil sharpener, such that all movements, i.e. in particular movements to move it into at least one closed position and into at least one open position, take place (exclusively) in or within the plane of movement.

[0018] In the closed position of the at least one locking element, the at least one sharpening channel is typically sealed. Therefore, unwanted leakage of pencil shavings from the sharpener can be prevented in the at least one closed position of the at least one locking element. The same applies to embodiments in which the at least two locking elements can each be moved into at least one closed position. The at least two locking elements can each have locking sections or contours with which, in the respective closed position, they move against each other, optionally interlocking, sealing the at least one sharpening channel.

[0019] As will be shown below, the closed position of the at least one closing element can represent a basic position of the at least one closing element, which enables a tight, secure and reliable closure of the sharpener and thus secure and reliable protection against unwanted escape of sharpening waste from the sharpener.

[0020] The pencil sharpener also includes a reset mechanism designed to reset or return the at least one locking element, which can be moved in the plane of movement into at least one corresponding open position and at least one corresponding closed position, to the at least one closed position. The reset mechanism includes at least one reset element designed to exert a restoring force on the at least one locking element, moving it into or towards the at least one closed position. As mentioned, the at least one closed position of the at least one locking element can thus represent its default position. As will be further explained, the exertion of a corresponding restoring force on the at least one locking element can result from material- or material-structure-related restoring properties of the at least one reset element.The restoring properties of the at least one restoring element can act on the at least one closure element coupled to it, particularly when the at least one closure element is moved from the at least one closed position to or towards the at least one open position, and a corresponding deflection and / or elongation or deformation of the at least one restoring element occurs, as will be explained below. The restoring properties of the at least one restoring element can result from elastic properties inherent in the material or material structure of the at least one restoring element.

[0021] The at least one restoring element is typically arranged in the plane of motion or in a plane parallel to the plane of motion. The at least one restoring element thus typically extends at least partially, and in particular completely, in the plane of motion or in a plane parallel to the plane of motion.

[0022] In addition to its restoring properties, the at least one restoring element, as indicated, is arranged and designed such that it couples the at least two locking elements. The configuration of the at least one restoring element is thus chosen such that the at least two locking elements are coupled to each other via the at least one restoring element. This coupling particularly includes a movement coupling of the at least two locking elements. Coupling also means, in particular, that the at least one locking element is moved into the at least one closed position by the restoring force exerted via the at least one restoring element when no pin is inserted into the at least one pointed channel.This also has a positive effect on the aforementioned tight, secure and reliable closure of the sharpener and thus on the safe and reliable protection against unwanted leakage of sharpening waste from the sharpener.

[0023] The configuration of the pencil sharpener described above results in an improved pencil sharpener with regard to aspects relating to the use of the pencil sharpener, such as the tightness and reliability of the closure of the at least one sharpening channel, as well as with regard to aspects relating to the manufacture of the pencil sharpener, such as the simplicity of the construction.

[0024] The following are exemplary designs of the pencil sharpener, which can basically be combined with each other in any way: The at least two locking elements can each be arranged in the plane of movement oriented perpendicularly, in particular at right angles, to the axis of the pointed channel and can be moved by movement in the plane of movement into at least one open position, in which the pointed channel is open for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position, in which the pointed channel is closed for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened. Thus, the at least two locking elements can each be moved into a first and a second orientation and / or position. Each first orientation and / or position of the at least two locking elements can correspond to the respective at least one closed position, and each second orientation and / or position of the at least two locking elements can correspond to the respective at least one open position.The at least two locking elements can interact in their respective first orientation and / or position to form at least one closed position and interact in their respective second orientation and / or position to form at least one open position. The at least one closed position can therefore be achieved by the at least two locking elements each being moved into their first orientation and / or position; the at least one open position can similarly be achieved by the at least two locking elements each being moved into their second orientation and / or position.

[0025] In this embodiment, the at least one return element can be configured to exert a return force on the at least two locking elements, moving them into or towards their respective closed positions. In this embodiment, the at least two locking elements are also coupled to each other by the at least one return element in the manner described. In this embodiment, coupling is understood to mean, in particular, that the at least two locking elements are moved into their respective closed positions by the return force exerted by the at least one return element when no pin is inserted into the at least one pointed channel.

[0026] As indicated, the at least two locking elements can be coupled to each other via the at least one return element in such a way that a force or force component is exerted on the at least two locking elements, which moves the at least two locking elements towards each other, in particular from their respective open positions towards their respective closed positions. A coupling of the at least two locking elements can therefore also be understood to mean that the at least two locking elements are moved synchronously into their respective closed positions by the forces or force components exerted on them by the at least one return element, provided no pin is inserted into the at least one pointed channel. The return element can, in particular, be configured to exert forces of equal magnitude but in different directions, i.e., in particular, opposite directions.to exert force components on at least two locking elements.

[0027] The at least one return element can be attached to the first locking element(s) via at least one first attachment area and to the second locking element(s) via at least one second attachment area. The at least one return element can be stably, i.e., in particular captive, attached to the respective locking elements via these attachment areas; in this way, the described forces or force components can be transmitted to the at least two locking elements. A force-transmitting mechanical contact can therefore exist between the at least one return element and the at least two locking elements. Corresponding attachment areas can, for example, be point-shaped or linear and can be realized by form-fit, force-fit, and / or material-fit fastening methods or means.By way of example only, clamping, snap-in, screw, rivet, adhesive or welding fastenings are mentioned in this context.

[0028] The reset mechanism can comprise at least two separate reset elements. In embodiments with at least two separate reset elements, the at least two separate reset elements can each be attached to the first locking element via at least one first mounting area and to the second locking element via at least one second mounting area. The preceding descriptions apply analogously.

[0029] The at least one or the at least two return elements can each be designed as a tension element, in particular as a tension band or a tension spring, or comprise such a tension element. The forces or force components that can be exerted on the at least one or the at least two locking elements via the at least one return element can therefore be tensile forces or tensile force components.

[0030] The at least one return element can surround, enclose, or span the at least two locking elements, at least partially, and in particular completely. A force-transmitting mechanical contact can also exist between the at least one return element and the at least two locking elements due to the surrounding, enclosing, or spanning arrangement of the at least one return element. This provides a structurally and technically simple, yet reliable, way to achieve coupled movement of the at least two locking elements, at least when moving them into at least one closed position. In this embodiment, the at least one return element can also be attached to the first locking element and / or the first locking element via corresponding fastening areas.a second locking element; however, this is not absolutely necessary, for example, as the transmission of corresponding forces or force components, which in this embodiment may also be tensile forces or tensile force components, to the locking element(s) is also possible through the arrangement of the at least one return element surrounding or enclosing or spanning the at least two locking elements.

[0031] In this embodiment, the at least one return element can, for example, be designed in the form of a band or belt. The at least one return element can thus be designed, for example, as a belt or band that surrounds, encloses, or spans the at least two locking elements at least partially, and optionally completely.

[0032] It follows from the foregoing that the at least one closure element in all embodiments can be designed as an elastomeric element having restoring properties, made of an elastomeric material and / or a material structure having elastic properties, or can comprise such an element.

[0033] The at least one locking element or the at least two locking elements can, in all embodiments, be moved into their respective closed and open positions via translational and / or rotational degrees of freedom in or within the plane of motion. The at least one locking element or the at least two locking elements can thus be mounted in one translational and / or one rotational degree of freedom relative to each other in or within the plane of motion. As mentioned above, all movements of the at least one locking element, i.e., in particular also movements to move it into the closed position and into the at least one open position, take place (exclusively) in or within the plane of motion; this applies analogously to embodiments in which at least two locking elements can be moved into their respective closed and open positions.

[0034] A corresponding translational degree of freedom can enable translational movement of at least one locking element in the plane of motion relative to another locking element along a translational axis. Likewise, all locking elements can each be mounted to allow movement in a corresponding translational motion along a translational axis. Analogous to the plane of motion, a corresponding translational axis can be oriented at an angle, in particular perpendicular, to the axis of the pointed channel. A corresponding translational axis can run in the plane of motion, at least partially, and optionally completely, in a curved or straight line. Specifically, a translational motion can be a sliding motion of at least one locking element in the plane of motion relative to another or a second locking element.At least one or at least two locking elements can therefore be mounted in the plane of movement in a sliding manner along a common sliding axis or along separate, yet typically parallel, sliding axes.

[0035] A corresponding rotational degree of freedom can enable a rotational movement of at least one locking element in the plane of motion relative to another locking element about an axis of rotation. Likewise, all locking elements can each be mounted to allow a corresponding rotational movement about an axis of rotation. This axis of rotation can be aligned parallel to the axis of the pointed channel. This axis of rotation can be curved or straight, at least partially, and possibly completely. Specifically, a corresponding rotational movement can be a pivoting movement of at least one locking element in the plane of motion relative to another or a second locking element.At least one locking element, or at least two locking elements, can therefore be pivotally mounted in the plane of motion about a common pivot axis or about separate, though typically parallel, pivot axes.

[0036] At least one locking element can have a receiving or guiding contour, formed, for example, by a channel-like or channel-shaped recess in a locking element body, via which the at least one return element is received or guided, particularly on the outside, on or in the at least one locking element. In this way, a stable and typically captive arrangement of the at least one return element on the at least one locking element can be realized, which can be particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for corresponding band- or belt-like designs of the at least one return element.

[0037] The at least two locking elements can have an insertion contour, formed, for example, by a cone-segment-like recess, within a locking element body for a pencil to be inserted into the at least one sharpening channel. By providing such insertion contours, an intuitive understanding of how to operate the pencil sharpener is ensured, so that a user (even a young one) immediately understands that they can open the at least two locking elements by inserting a pencil into the at least one sharpening channel. Furthermore, this allows the user to easily and safely insert a pencil to be sharpened into the at least one sharpening channel. The respective insertion contours, formed, for example, by corresponding cone-segment-like recesses, can together form or define a cone-shaped insertion contour in the closed position, or interact to create such a contour.

[0038] The pencil sharpener can include a guide device, particularly one arranged or formed on the housing, for guiding the at least one or at least two locking elements during movements into the at least one open position and / or the at least one closed position. Guided movements of the at least one locking element into the respective open and closed positions are thus possible, which improves the reliability of the locking device. Such a guide device can comprise one or more guide elements.

[0039] Corresponding guide elements can be arranged or formed, for example, on a corresponding cover part, and can also be arranged or formed in or within the plane of movement. In particular, corresponding guide elements can be arranged or formed in a section of a cover part having an insertion opening that communicates with the pointed channel. Corresponding guide elements can define an axis or path of movement along which the at least one or the at least two locking elements can be moved into the at least one open position and / or into the at least one closed position. Corresponding guide elements can interact, in particular in a form-fitting manner, with counter-guide elements arranged or formed on the at least one or the at least two locking elements.The respective guide elements and counter-guide elements can generally be positive-locking elements, i.e., projections, or corresponding counter-positive-locking elements, i.e., receptacles corresponding to the projections. Specifically, the corresponding guide elements can be configured, for example, as rails or rail-shaped and, in particular, interact positively with corresponding receptacles on the locking elements.

[0040] To achieve a stable, i.e., in particular captive, connection between at least one guide element and at least one locking element, one or more guide elements, configured as mentioned above, particularly rail-like or -shaped, can have a cross-sectional geometry with at least one undercut, at least partially, and optionally completely. Specifically, one or more guide elements can thus have, for example, a T-shaped or T-shaped cross-sectional geometry. A corresponding receptacle for the at least one locking element, configured for a guide element with an undercut at least partially, and optionally completely, can have a correspondingly undercut configuration, so that the aforementioned, in particular positive-locking, interaction is achieved.

[0041] The pencil sharpener may further comprise a locking device, particularly one arranged or formed on the housing, for captive securing of the at least one return element to the housing. Such a locking device may comprise one or more locking elements, particularly hook-shaped or hook-like elements. The one or more locking elements may be arranged or formed on a housing part and / or on the cover part. In particular, the one or more locking elements may be arranged or formed on or in a section of a corresponding cover part that has an insertion opening communicating with the at least one sharpening channel.The arrangement of at least one locking element can be chosen such that the at least one reset element is pre-tensioned in a state of tension in the closed position of the at least one locking element or the at least two locking elements; this can result in the aforementioned arrangement of the at least one reset element spanning the at least two locking elements.

[0042] As mentioned above, the pencil sharpener can be designed as a double or multiple sharpener and thus comprise several sharpening devices arranged or formed in the housing part of the housing device, each having a sharpening channel axis defining a pencil to be sharpened.

[0043] In embodiments as double or multiple pencil sharpeners, with regard to the functional or constructive design of the locking device, i.e., in particular with regard to the arrangement, number and interaction of the at least two locking elements, the following configurations of the pencil sharpener are conceivable: In a first exemplary configuration, the locking device comprises two locking elements which are coupled, in particular motion-coupled, via the at least one return element and are arranged in the plane of motion. These locking elements can be moved in the plane of motion into at least one open position, in which at least one pointed channel, in particular all pointed channels, is open for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position, in which at least one pointed channel, in particular all pointed channels, is closed for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened. This configuration with two locking elements thus makes it possible for at least one pointed channel, in particular all pointed channels, to be jointly opened for the insertion of a pencil by moving the two locking elements into their respective open positions and for them to be jointly closed by moving the two locking elements into their respective closed positions.In this configuration, the locking mechanism therefore comprises only two locking elements, which allow the nozzle channels to be opened and closed together. The first locking element and the second locking element are thus assigned to both the first and second nozzle channels.

[0044] In a second exemplary configuration, the locking device comprises a first locking element associated with a first pointed channel, which is arranged in the plane of movement and can be moved by movement in the plane of movement into at least one open position in which the first pointed channel is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the first pointed channel is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and a second locking element associated with a second pointed channel, which is arranged in the plane of movement and can be moved by movement in the plane of movement into at least one open position in which the second pointed channel is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the second pointed channel is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened.This configuration with two locking elements thus allows a first pointed channel to be opened for the insertion of a pin by moving the first locking element into its open position, and to be closed by moving the first locking element into its closed position. Independently of this, a second pointed channel can be opened for the insertion of a pin by moving the second locking element into its open position, and to be closed by moving the second locking element into its closed position. In this configuration, the locking device therefore comprises two locking elements, wherein a first pointed channel can be opened and closed via a first locking element, and a second pointed channel can be opened and closed via a second locking element. The first locking element is thus assigned to the first pointed channel, and the second locking element to the second pointed channel.

[0045] In a third exemplary configuration, the locking device comprises a first locking element associated with a first pointed channel, which is arranged in the plane of movement and can be moved by movement in the plane of movement into at least one open position in which the first pointed channel is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the first pointed channel is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened into the first pointed channel; and a second locking element associated with a second pointed channel, which is arranged in the plane of movement and can be moved by movement in the plane of movement into at least one open position in which the second pointed channel is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the second pointed channel is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened.as well as a third locking element, assigned to both the first and second sharpening channels and arranged or formed between the first and second locking elements, which is arranged in the plane of movement and can be moved by movement in the plane of movement into a first open position, in which the first sharpening channel is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into a second open position, in which the second sharpening channel is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, as well as into a first closed position, in which the first sharpening channel is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into a second closed position, in which the second sharpening channel is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened. This configuration with three locking elements thus makes it possible tothat a first pointed channel can be opened for the insertion of a pin by moving the first locking element into its open position and by moving the third locking element into its first open position, and can no longer be opened by moving the first locking element into its closed position and by moving the third locking element into its first closed position; and – independently of this – a second pointed channel can be opened for the insertion of a pin by moving the second locking element into its open position and by moving the third locking element into its second open position, and can no longer be opened by moving the second locking element into its closed position and by moving the third locking element into its second closed position. In this configuration, the locking device thus comprises three locking elements.wherein a first pointed channel can be opened and closed via a first and a third locking element, and a second pointed channel can be opened and closed via a second and the third locking element. The first locking element is thus assigned to the first pointed channel, the second locking element to the second pointed channel, and the third locking element to both the first and the second pointed channels. The third locking element is, as mentioned, arranged or formed between the first and the second locking elements.

[0046] In a fourth exemplary configuration, the locking device comprises two locking elements associated with a first pointed channel, each arranged in the plane of movement and transferable by movement in the plane of movement into at least one open position in which the first pointed channel is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the first pointed channel is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened; and two locking elements associated with a second pointed channel, each arranged in the plane of movement and transferable by movement in the plane of movement into at least one open position in which the second pointed channel is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the second pointed channel is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened.This configuration with four locking elements thus allows a first pointed channel to be opened for the insertion of a pin by moving a first and a second locking element into their respective open positions, and to be closed by moving the first and second locking elements into their respective closed positions. Independently of this, a second pointed channel can be opened for the insertion of a pin by moving a third and a fourth locking element into their respective open positions, and to be closed by moving the third and fourth locking elements into their respective closed positions. In this configuration, the locking device therefore comprises four locking elements, wherein a first pointed channel can be opened and closed via a first and a second locking element, and a second pointed channel can be opened and closed via a third and a fourth locking element.The first and second locking elements are therefore assigned to the first pointed channel, the third and fourth locking elements are assigned to the second pointed channel.

[0047] A second aspect of the invention relates to a method for sharpening a pencil, wherein a pencil sharpener according to the first aspect of the invention is used in the course of the method or for its execution. The method comprises, in particular, moving the at least one closing element into the open position by the user inserting a pencil into or towards the at least one sharpening channel, and / or sharpening the pencil inserted into the at least one sharpening channel, and / or removing the pencil from the at least one sharpening channel, wherein, after removal of the pencil from the at least one sharpening channel, the at least one closing element is moved into the at least one closed position by the at least one resetting element. All embodiments relating to the pencil sharpener according to the first aspect of the invention apply analogously to the method according to the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0048] The invention is explained again below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. These show: Fig. 1, Fig. 2 each schematic representation of a pencil sharpener according to a first embodiment; Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a pencil sharpener according to a further embodiment; Fig. 4, Fig. 5 each schematic representation of a pencil sharpener according to a further embodiment; Fig. 6, Fig. 7 each schematic representation of a pencil sharpener according to a further embodiment; Fig. 8, Fig. 9 Principle diagrams of a pencil sharpener according to two further embodiments; Fig. 9 a schematic representation of a pencil sharpener according to a further embodiment; Fig. 10-12 each show schematic diagrams of a pencil sharpener according to a further embodiment; and Fig. 13, Fig. 14 Principle diagrams of a pencil sharpener according to two further embodiments.

[0049] The Fig. 1, Fig. Figures 2 each show a schematic representation of a pencil sharpener 1 for sharpening pencils according to a first embodiment.

[0050] In this exemplary embodiment, the pencil sharpener 1 is configured as a double or multiple sharpener and comprises a housing assembly 1 consisting of one or more parts. The housing assembly 2 comprises a housing part 2.1 consisting of one or more parts, which defines a receiving space (not shown) with a specific volume. The housing part 2.1 can have one or more bottom walls 2.1.1 and one or more side walls 2.1.2, which define the receiving space. A sharpening device of the pencil sharpener 1, not shown in the figures, is arranged or formed in or within the receiving space; the volume can therefore be at least partially occupied by the sharpening device. The volume not occupied by the sharpening device, and thus free, can be used to receive material removed when sharpening a pencil.The receiving space is therefore designed both for the partial receiving of the sharpening device of the sharpener 1 and for receiving material removal or sharpening waste generated during a sharpening process.

[0051] The housing part 2.1 is evidently configured as open on one side in the exemplary embodiment; this open-on-one configuration results from the fact that no top wall closing the receiving space (on the upper side) is arranged or formed opposite the one or more bottom walls 2.1.1. However, in the exemplary embodiment, the housing assembly 2 includes a cover part 2.2, e.g., plate-like or plate-shaped, which can be connected or is attached to the housing part 2.1, in particular in a way that is detachable without damage or destruction, in order to cover the open area of ​​the housing part 2.1. The cover part 2.2 is evidently designed with two through-holes 2.2.1, which, in the assembled state of the sharpener 1, are aligned with the respective access openings 3 in the respective sharpening channels 4 of the sharpening device.

[0052] Fig. Figure 1 further shows that the sharpener 1 can optionally include a cap part 5 that can be connected to or is connected to the cover part 2.2. The cap part 5 is also designed with two through-holes 5.1, which, in the assembled state of the sharpener 1, are aligned with the respective through-holes 2.2.1 of the cover part 2.2 and thus with the respective access openings 3 into the respective sharpening channels 4 of the sharpening device.

[0053] The basic geometric shape of the housing part 2.1 can, in principle, be chosen arbitrarily. For example, the housing part can have a cylindrical or cylindrical-like shape, a prismatic or prism-like shape, or a polygonal shape, e.g., a triangular, pentagonal, etc. The same applies to the basic geometric shape of the cover part 2.2 and the, as mentioned, optional cap part 5.

[0054] Since the pencil sharpener 1 in the exemplary embodiment is configured, as mentioned, as a double or multiple sharpener, the sharpening device in the exemplary embodiment has two sharpening channels 4, each defining a sharpening channel axis A1 for a pencil to be sharpened. The sharpening channels 4 typically have a conical or funnel-shaped geometry and are accessible via the aforementioned access openings 3, which in the exemplary embodiment have a hollow cylindrical or cylindrical geometry. The sharpening device further has sharpening elements, in particular blade- or cutting-edge-shaped elements, assigned to the respective sharpening channels 4, so that a pencil inserted axially into a respective sharpening channel 4 with respect to a respective sharpening channel axis A1 can be sharpened or shaped in a manner known per se by rotating it about the sharpening channel axis A1 by means of the respective sharpening element.As mentioned, the shavings produced during a corresponding sharpening process can be collected in the receiving area.

[0055] The pencil sharpener further comprises a locking device 6 with two locking elements 6.1, 6.2, each of which has a basic shape defining a base plane, e.g., strip- or plate-like. The exemplary embodiment shows that the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are arranged or formed in a plane of movement E oriented perpendicular to the parallel axes of the sharpening device. Specifically, the locking elements 6.1, 6.2, with their respective base planes, are arranged or aligned parallel to the plane of movement E. As will be shown below, the arrangement of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 in the plane of movement E offers particular advantages with regard to aspects relating to the use of the pencil sharpener 1, such as the tightness and reliability of the closure of the sharpening channels 4, as well as with regard to aspects relating to the manufacture of the pencil sharpener 1, such as the simplicity of the design.As mentioned, in the exemplary embodiment, the plane of movement E is aligned perpendicular to the axes of the sharpening channels A1; in this exemplary embodiment, the plane of movement E is thus a plane arranged or aligned parallel to a bottom plane of the sharpener 1 defined by one or more bottom walls 2.1.1 and located above the sharpening channels 4, i.e., in particular above the access openings 4 to the sharpening channels. Accordingly, the plane of movement E can specifically be defined, for example, by an exposed upper surface of the cover part 2.2, which can be connected to or is connected with the housing part 2.1.

[0056] The locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are moved into a position by moving them in or within the plane of motion E. Fig. 2 shown opening position, in which the pointed channels 4 are released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into a position in Fig. The closed position shown in 1, in which the sharpening channels 4 are not open for inserting a pencil to be sharpened, can be transferred. The locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are thus within the plane of movement E into a Fig. 1. First orientation and / or position shown and in a Fig. The second orientation and / or position shown in Figure 2 is transferable, wherein the first orientation and / or position of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 corresponds to the closed position and the second orientation and / or position of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 corresponds to the open position. The locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are thus configured, i.e., in particular mounted, such that all movements, i.e., in particular movements to transfer them to the closed position and to the open position, take place (exclusively) in or within the plane of movement E.

[0057] In the closed position of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2, the sharpening channels 4 are typically sealed. Therefore, unwanted escape of sharpening waste from the sharpener 1 can be prevented in the closed position of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2. The locking elements 6.1, 6.2 can each have closing sections or contours 6.1.1, 6.2.1, with which they, as in Fig. 1 shown as an example, in the closed position, possibly interlocking, the pointed channels are moved against each other in a sealing and closing manner.

[0058] As will be shown below, the closed position of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 can represent a basic position of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2, which enables a tight, secure and reliable closure of the sharpener 1 and thus a secure and reliable protection against unwanted escape of sharpening waste from the sharpener 1.

[0059] The pencil sharpener 1 also includes a reset device 7, which is designed to reset or return the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 to the closed position. In the exemplary embodiment according to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2. A return element 7.1, which is configured to exert a return force on the locking elements 6.1, 6.2, moving them into or towards the closed position. As mentioned, the closed position of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 can thus represent their default position. As will be shown below, the exertion of a corresponding return force on the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 can result from material- or material-structure-related return properties of the return element 7.1. The return properties of the return element 7.1 can act on the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 coupled to it – as will be explained below – particularly when the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are moved from the closed position into or towards the open position, and a corresponding deflection and / or elongation or deformation of the return element 7.1 occurs.The restoring properties of the restoring element 7.1 can - as will be explained further below - result from material- or material-structure-related elastic properties of the restoring element 7.1.

[0060] As can be seen, in the exemplary embodiment, the return element 7.1 is also arranged in the plane of motion E or in a plane parallel to the plane of motion E. In the exemplary embodiment, the return element 7.1 thus extends in the plane of motion E or in a plane parallel to it.

[0061] In addition to its restoring properties, the restoring element 7.1, as indicated, is arranged and designed to couple the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2. The configuration of the restoring element 7.1 is thus chosen such that the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2 are coupled to each other via the restoring element 7.1. This coupling includes, in particular, a movement coupling of the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2. Specifically, this coupling also means that the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2 are moved synchronously into the closed position by the restoring force exerted via the restoring element 7.1 when no pin is inserted into a pointed channel 4. The restoring element 7.1 is specifically configured to exert forces or force components of equal magnitude but opposite direction, i.e., in particular, opposite direction, on the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2.This also has a positive effect on the aforementioned tight, secure and reliable closure of the pencil sharpener 1 and thus on the safe and reliable protection against unwanted leakage of sharpening waste from the pencil sharpener 1.

[0062] In the embodiment according to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2. The return element 7.1 is designed as a band or belt and is clearly arranged such that it completely surrounds, encloses, or spans the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2. A force-transmitting mechanical contact exists between the return element 7.1 and the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2 due to its surrounding, enclosing, or spanning arrangement. This provides a structurally and technically simple yet reliable means of achieving coupled movement of the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2, at least when moving them into the closed position. The return element 7.1 can be attached to the 6.1 and / or the second locking element 6.2 via corresponding attachment points; however, this is not strictly necessary, as the surrounding, enclosing, or spanning arrangement of the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2 also provides sufficient force transmission.The surrounding arrangement of the return element 7.1 allows for the transmission of corresponding forces or force components, which may be tensile forces or tensile force components, to the locking elements 6.1, 6.2.

[0063] The locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are in the embodiment according to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2. The locking elements 6.1 and 6.2 can be moved between the closed and open positions via translational degrees of freedom in or within the plane of motion E. The locking elements 6.1 and 6.2 can therefore be mounted in one translational degree of freedom relative to each other in or within the plane of motion E. Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment, the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2 are mounted to move along a translational axis, indicated by the double arrow T1. Analogous to the plane of motion E, the translational axis is oriented perpendicular to the axes of the pointed channel A1 and, in the exemplary embodiment, runs in a straight line within the plane of motion E. Specifically, the translational movement represents a sliding movement of the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2 in the plane of motion E; the locking elements 6.1 and 6.2 are therefore mounted to move along a sliding axis defined by the translational axis within the plane of motion E.

[0064] The exemplary embodiment further illustrates that the pencil sharpener 1 can include a guide device 8, arranged or formed on the housing assembly 2, i.e., in particular on the cover part 2.2, for guiding the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 during movements into the open and / or closed positions. Guided movements of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 into the open and closed positions are thus possible, which improves the reliability of the locking assembly 6. The guide device 8 can comprise several guide elements 8.1, which in the exemplary embodiment are configured as rails or rail-shaped. In the exemplary embodiment, these guide elements are arranged or formed on the cover part 2, i.e., in particular on the section of the cover part 2.2 having the insertion openings that communicate with the sharpening channels 4, and thus also in or within the plane of movement E. The guide elements 8 can be seen to be...1. The axis or path of movement can be defined along which the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 can be moved into the open position and / or the closed position. The guide elements 8.1 can interact positively with counter-guidance elements (not specified) arranged or formed on the locking elements 6.1, 6.2. The respective guide elements 8.1 and counter-guidance elements can therefore generally be positive-locking elements, i.e., projections, or corresponding counter-locking elements, i.e., receptacles corresponding to the respective projections.

[0065] In particular, based on Fig. As can be seen from Figure 2, the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 can each have a receiving or guiding contour 6.1.2, 6.2.2, formed, for example, by a channel-like or channel-shaped recess in a respective locking element body, by means of which the return element 7.1 is received or guided on the outside of or within the respective locking element 6.1, 6.2. In this way, a stable and typically captive arrangement of the return element on the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 can be achieved, which can be particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for corresponding band- or belt-like designs of the return element 7.1.

[0066] The exemplary embodiment further illustrates that the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 can have an insertion contour 6.1.3, 6.2.3, formed, for example, by a cone-segment-like recess in a respective locking element body, for a pencil to be inserted into a respective sharpening channel 4. The provision of corresponding insertion contours 6.1.3, 6.2.3 provides an intuitive understanding of how to operate the pencil sharpener 1, so that a user (even a young one) immediately understands that they can open the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 by inserting a pencil into the respective sharpening channel 4. Furthermore, this enables a user to easily and safely insert a pencil to be sharpened into a respective sharpening channel 4. Fig. Figure 1 shows that the insertion contours 6.1.3, 6.2.3 together form or define a conical insertion contour in the closed position, or can interact to form such a contour.

[0067] The exemplary embodiment further illustrates that the pencil sharpener 1 can include a locking device 9, arranged or formed on the housing assembly 2, i.e., in particular on the cover part 2.2, for captive securing of the return element 7.1 to the housing assembly. The locking device 9 can comprise one or more locking elements 9.1, in particular hook-like or hook-shaped, which are arranged or formed on the section of the cover part 2.2 having the insertion openings communicating with the sharpening channels 4. The arrangement of the locking elements 9.1 can be selected such that the return element 7.1 is pre-tensioned in a state of tension when the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are closed; this can result in the aforementioned arrangement of the return element 7.1 spanning the locking elements 6.1, 6.2.

[0068] In Fig. Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of a pencil sharpener 1 for sharpening at least one pencil. The one in Fig. The embodiment shown in section 3 differs from the one described in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2. In the embodiment shown, the guide elements 8.1 have a cross-sectional geometry with at least one undercut 8.1.1. Specifically, the guide elements 8.1 have a T-shaped cross-sectional geometry. The correspondingly configured receptacles of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 for the correspondingly undercut guide elements 8.1 can have a counter-undercut configuration, so that the embodiment shown in the embodiment according to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2. The aforementioned form-fitting interaction is given.

[0069] In Fig. Figure 4 shows a further embodiment of a pencil sharpener 1 for sharpening at least one pencil. The one shown in Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 4 differs from the embodiments shown in the preceding figures in that, instead of a single resetting element 7.1 completely surrounding, enclosing, or spanning the locking elements 6.1, 6.2, two separate resetting elements 7.1 are provided, each attached to the first locking element 6.1 via a first mounting area (not labeled) and to the second locking element 6.2 via a second mounting area (not labeled). The resetting elements 7.1 are stably, i.e., in particular captive, attached to the respective locking elements 6.1, 6.2 via their respective mounting areas; in this way, the described forces or force components can be transmitted to the locking elements 6.1, 6.2. A force-transmitting mechanical contact thus exists between the resetting elements 7.1 and the locking elements 6.1, 6.2. The mounting areas can be, for example,They may be point- or line-shaped and realized by form-fitting, force-fitting, and / or material-fitting fastening methods or means. Clamping, snap-fit, screw, rivet, adhesive, or welding fastenings are mentioned here only as examples.

[0070] As can be seen, the return elements 7.1 can also be designed in the form of a band or belt in this embodiment. The forces or force components that can be exerted on the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 by means of the return elements 7.1 are therefore tensile forces or tensile force components. Furthermore, it can be seen that the return elements 7.1 have a longitudinal extension parallel to the functional elements 8.1. In this way, a suitable force transmission to the connecting elements 6.1, 6.2 is ensured.

[0071] In Fig. Figure 5 shows a further embodiment of a pencil sharpener 1 for sharpening at least one pencil. The one shown in Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 5 differs from the embodiment shown in Figure 5 in that the return elements 7.1 are not designed as bands or belts, but as tension springs, so that the forces or force components that can be exerted on the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 by means of the return elements 7.1 are also tensile forces or tensile force components.

[0072] From the foregoing explanations in connection with the exemplary embodiments, it follows that the restoring element(s) 7.1 can generally be formed as an elastomeric element having restoring properties, or can comprise such an element made of an elastomeric material having elastic properties and / or of a material structure having elastic properties.

[0073] In the Fig. 6, Fig. Figure 7 shows a further embodiment of a pencil sharpener 1 for sharpening at least one pencil. The [description of the] Fig. 6, Fig. The embodiment shown in section 7 is basically based on the one described in the Fig. 1, Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 2 differs from the embodiment shown in the preceding figures in that the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are mounted here not in a translational degree of freedom, but in a rotational degree of freedom.

[0074] The locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are in the embodiment according to the Fig. 6, Fig. 7. The locking elements can be moved into the closed and open positions via rotational degrees of freedom in or within the plane of motion E. The locking elements 6.1, 6.2 can therefore be mounted in a rotational degree of freedom relative to each other in or within the plane of motion E. Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment, the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are mounted to move about a respective axis of rotation in a rotational movement indicated by the double arrow R1. The respective axes of rotation are aligned parallel to the pointed channel axes A1 and, in the exemplary embodiment, run perpendicularly through the plane of motion E. Specifically, the rotational movement represents a pivoting movement of the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 in the plane of motion E; the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are therefore each mounted to pivot about a pivot axis defined by the respective axis of rotation in the plane of motion E.

[0075] In the Fig. 8 and Fig. Figure 9 shows a further embodiment of a pencil sharpener 1 for sharpening at least one pencil. The examples shown in the Fig. 8, Fig. The embodiment shown in 9 is fundamentally based on the one described in the Fig. 6, Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 7 differs from the embodiment shown in the preceding figures in that the return element 7.1 does not completely surround the locking elements 6.1, 6.2, but only couples the locking elements 6.1, 6.2 at a free end.

[0076] The embodiments shown in the examples according to the Fig. 8, Fig. The return elements shown in section 7.1 are therefore - analogous to the embodiments according to the Fig. 4, Fig. 5 - each attached via a first fastening area to a first locking element 6.1 and via a second fastening area 6.2 to a second locking element 6.2. In the embodiment according to Fig. 8 the return element 7.1 is again designed as a band or belt, whereas the return element 7.1 in the embodiment according to Fig. 9 is designed as a tension spring.

[0077] The exemplary implementations according to the Fig. Figures 1-9 all show configurations of the locking device 6 with two locking elements 6.1, 6.2, which are coupled via one or more return elements 7.1, in particular motion-coupled, arranged in the plane of motion E and can be moved into a corresponding open position and a corresponding closed position by moving in the plane of motion E. This configuration with two locking elements thus makes it possible for the pointed channels 4 to be jointly released for the insertion of a pin by moving the two locking elements 6.1, 6.2 into their respective open positions and to be jointly locked by moving the two locking elements 6.1, 6.2 into their respective closed positions.

[0078] In this configuration, the closure device 6 therefore comprises only two closure elements 6.1 and 6.2, by means of which the pointed channels 4 can be opened and closed together. The first closure element 6.1 and the second closure element 6.2 are thus assigned to both the first and the second pointed channel 4.

[0079] A pencil sharpener 1 with a differently configured locking device 6 is, according to the exemplary embodiments shown, Fig. 10 - 14 are shown and are explained below using an example: In the embodiment according to the Fig. 10 - 14 The closure device 6 comprises a first closure element 6.1 associated with a first pointed channel 4, which is arranged in the plane of movement E and moved in the plane of movement E into a Fig. 12 shown opening position, in which a first pointed channel 4 is opened for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into a position in the Fig. 10, Fig. 11 shown closed position, in which the first pointed channel 4 is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened into the first pointed channel 4, can be converted to a second closing element 6.2 associated with a second pointed channel 4, which is arranged in the plane of movement E and can be moved in the plane of movement E into a position in Fig. 11 shown opening position, in which the second sharpening channel 4 is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into a position in the Fig. 10, Fig. 12 shown closed position, in which the second pointing channel 4 is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, can be transferred, as well as a third locking element 6.3, which is assigned to both the first and the second pointing channel 4 and is arranged or formed between the first and the second locking element 6.1, 6.2, and which is arranged in the plane of movement E and can be moved into a position in Fig. 12 first opening position shown, in which the first sharpening channel 4 is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into a Fig. 11 second opening position shown, in which the second sharpening channel 4 is open for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, as well as in a Fig. 10 first closed position shown, in which the first pointed channel 4 is not released for inserting a pencil to be sharpened, and in a Fig. Figure 12 shows a second closed position in which the second sharpening channel 4 is not open for inserting a pencil to be sharpened. This configuration with three locking elements 6.1, 6.2, 6.3 thus makes it possible to open a first sharpening channel 4 by moving the first locking element 6.1 into its open position and by moving the third locking element 6.3 into its first open position, and to close it again by moving the first locking element 6.1 into its closed position and by moving the third locking element 6.3 into its first closed position. Furthermore, and independently of this, a second sharpening channel 4 can be opened by moving the second locking element 6.2 into its open position and by moving the third locking element 6.3 into its second open position, and closed again by moving the second locking element 6.1 into its closed position and by moving the third locking element 6.3 into its first closed position.2 in its closed position and by moving the third locking element 6.3 into its second closed position it can no longer be released.

[0080] In this configuration, the locking device 6 comprises three locking elements 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, wherein a first pointed channel 4 can be opened and closed via the first and third locking elements 6.1, 6.3, and a second pointed channel 4 can be opened and closed via the second and third locking elements 6.2, 6.3. The first locking element 6.1 is thus associated with the first pointed channel 4, the second locking element 6.2 with the second pointed channel 4, and the third locking element 6.3 with both the first and the second pointed channel 4. As mentioned, the third locking element 6.3 is arranged or formed between the first and the second locking elements 6.1, 6.2.

[0081] In the embodiment according to the Fig. 10 - 12 is, for example, analogous to the embodiment according to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 in turn a band- or strap-like return element 7.1 is provided, which surrounds or encloses or spans the three locking elements 6.1, 6.2, 6.

[0082] In the embodiment according to Fig. 13 are analogous to the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 4 two return elements 7.1, each designed like a band or strap, are provided, which are typically attached to the three locking elements 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, or at least to the two outer locking elements 6.1, 6.2, via corresponding fastening areas.

[0083] In the embodiment according to Fig. 14 are analogous to the exemplary embodiment according to Fig.5 two return elements 7.1, each designed as tension springs, are provided, which are typically attached to the three locking elements 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, or at least to the two outer locking elements 6.1, 6.2, via corresponding fastening areas.

[0084] In a further exemplary configuration not shown in the figures, the locking device 6 comprises a first locking element 6.1 associated with a first pointed channel 4, which is arranged in the plane of movement E and can be moved by moving in the plane of movement E into at least one open position in which the first pointed channel 4 is released for the insertion of a pin to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the first pointed channel 4 is not released for the insertion of a pin to be sharpened, and a second locking element 6.2 associated with a second pointed channel 4, which is arranged in the plane of movement E and can be moved by moving in the plane of movement E into at least one open position in which the second pointed channel 4 is released for the insertion of a pin to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the second pointed channel 4 is not released for the insertion of a pin to be sharpened.This configuration with two locking elements thus allows a first pointed channel 4 to be opened for the insertion of a pin by moving a first locking element 6.1 into its open position and to be closed by moving the first locking element 6.1 into its closed position, and—independently of this—a second pointed channel 4 to be opened for the insertion of a pin by moving a second locking element 6.2 into its open position and to be closed by moving the second locking element 6.2 into its closed position. In this configuration, the locking device 6 therefore comprises two locking elements 6.1, 6.2, wherein a first pointed channel 4 can be opened and closed via a first locking element 6.1 and a second pointed channel 4 can be opened and closed via a second locking element 6.2. The first locking element 6.1 is therefore assigned to the first pointed channel 4 and the second closing element 6.2 to the second pointed channel 4.

[0085] In a further exemplary configuration not shown in the Fig., the locking device 6 comprises two locking elements 6.1, 6.2 associated with a first pointed channel 4, each arranged in the plane of movement E and which can be moved by movement in the plane of movement E into at least one open position, in which the first pointed channel 4 is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position, in which the first pointed channel 4 is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened; and two locking elements 6.3, 6.2 associated with a second pointed channel 4.4, each of which is arranged in the plane of motion E and can be moved by moving it in the plane of motion E into at least one open position, in which the second sharpening channel 4 is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position, in which the second sharpening channel 4 is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened. This configuration with four locking elements 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4 thus makes it possible for a first sharpening channel 4 to be released for the insertion of a pencil by moving a first and a second locking element 6.1, 6.2 into their respective open positions and to no longer be released by moving the first and the second locking element 6.1, 6.2 into their respective closed positions, and – in particular independently of this – for a second sharpening channel 4 to be released by moving a third and a fourth locking element 6.3, 6.4.4 can be released in their respective open positions for the insertion of a pin and can no longer be released by moving the third and fourth locking elements 6.3, 6.4 into their respective closed positions. In this configuration, the locking device 6 thus comprises four locking elements 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, wherein a first pointed channel 4 can be opened and closed via a first and a second locking element 6.1, 6.2, and a second pointed channel 4 can be opened and closed via a third and a fourth locking element 6.3, 6.4. The first and the second locking elements 6.1, 6.2 are thus assigned to the first pointed channel 4, and the third and the fourth locking elements 6.3, 6.4 are assigned to the second pointed channel 4.

[0086] The embodiments of a pencil sharpener 1 shown in the figures enable the implementation of a method for sharpening a pencil. The method comprises, in particular, moving at least one locking element 6.1, 6.2 into an open position by the user inserting a pencil into or towards at least one sharpening channel 4 of the sharpening device of the pencil sharpener 1, and / or sharpening the pencil inserted into the at least one sharpening channel 4 of the sharpening device of the pencil sharpener 1, and / or removing the pencil from the at least one sharpening channel 4 of the sharpening device of the pencil sharpener 1, wherein, after removal of the pencil from the at least one sharpening channel 4 of the sharpening device of the pencil sharpener 1, the at least one locking element 6.1, 6.2 is moved into a closed position by the at least one return element 7.1.

[0087] Individual, several or all features described in connection with a particular embodiment can be combined with individual, several or all features of at least one further particular embodiment or replaced by individual, several or all features of at least one further particular embodiment.

Claims

[1] Pencil sharpener (1) for sharpening at least one pencil, wherein the pencil sharpener (1) is designed as a double or multiple pencil sharpener, comprising: - a housing device (2) with a pointing device having at least two pointing channels (4) each defining a pointing channel axis (A1) for a pencil to be pointed, or with several pointing devices, each having at least one pointing channel axis (A1) defining a pointing channel axis (A1) for a pencil to be pointed; - a locking device (6) with at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) which are arranged in a plane of movement (E) oriented at an angle, in particular at right angles, to the axis of the pointed channel (A1), wherein at least one locking element (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) can be moved by movement in the plane of movement (E) into at least one open position in which the pointed channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the pointed channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened; - a reset device (7) with at least one reset element (7.1) which is configured to exert a reset force on the at least one locking element (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) moving it into or towards the closed position, wherein the at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) are coupled to each other via the at least one reset element (7.1), wherein the at least one reset element (7.1) completely surrounds the at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3). [2] Pencil sharpener according to claim 1, wherein the at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) are each arranged in the plane of movement (E) oriented at an angle, in particular at right angles, to the sharpening channel axis (A1) and can be moved by movement in the plane of movement (E) into at least one open position in which the sharpening channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the sharpening channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, wherein the at least one return element (7.1) is configured to exert a return force on the at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) moving them into or in the direction of the respective closed position. [3] Sharpener according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) are coupled to each other via the at least one return element (7.1) in such a way that a force is exerted on the at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) which moves the at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) towards each other, in particular starting from their respective open position in the direction of their respective closed position. [4] Sharpener according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one return element (7.1) is attached to a first locking element (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) via at least one first fastening area and is attached to a second locking element (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) via at least one second fastening area. [5] Sharpener according to claim 4, comprising at least two separate return elements (7.1), each of which is attached to a first closure element (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) via at least one first attachment area and to a second closure element (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) via at least one second attachment area. [6] Sharpener according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the at least one return element (7.1) or the at least two return elements (7.1) are each designed as a tension element, in particular as a tension band or as a tension spring, or comprise such a tension element. [7] Sharpener according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one return element (7.1) is designed in the form of a band or belt. [8] Spitzer according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least two closure elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) are mounted in a translational and / or a rotational degree of freedom relative to each other in the plane of motion (E). [9] Sharpener according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the locking device (6) comprises: two locking elements (6.1, 6.2) which are arranged in a movement-coupled manner in the plane of movement (E) and can be moved by moving in the plane of movement (E) into at least one open position in which at least one pointed channel (4), in particular all pointed channels (4), is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which at least one pointed channel (4), in particular all pointed channels (4), is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened. [10] Sharpener according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the locking device (6) comprises: a first closing element (6.1) associated with a first pointed channel (4), which is arranged in the plane of movement (E) and can be moved by moving in the plane of movement (E) into at least one open position in which the first pointed channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the first pointed channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and a second closing element (6.2) associated with a second pointed channel (4), which is arranged in the plane of movement (E) and can be moved by moving in the plane of movement (E) into at least one open position in which the second pointed channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the second pointed channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened. [11] Sharpener according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the locking device (6) comprises: a first closing element (6.1) associated with a first pointed channel (4), which is arranged in the plane of movement (E) and can be moved by moving it in the plane of movement (E) into at least one open position in which the first pointed channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the first pointed channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened into the first pointed channel, and a second closing element (6.2) associated with a second pointed channel (4), which is arranged in the plane of movement (E) and can be moved by movement in the plane of movement (E) into at least one open position in which the second pointed channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the second pointed channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened; and a third locking element (6.3) associated with the first and second sharpening channels (4) and arranged between the first and second locking elements (6.1, 6.2), which is arranged in the plane of movement (E) and can be moved by moving it in the plane of movement (E) into a first open position in which the first sharpening channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into a second open position in which the second sharpening channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, as well as into a first closed position in which the first sharpening channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into a second closed position in which the second sharpening channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened. [12] Sharpener according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the locking device (6) comprises: - two locking elements associated with a first pointed channel (4), each arranged in the plane of movement (E) and which can be moved by movement in the plane of movement (E) into at least one open position in which the first pointed channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the first pointed channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened; and - two locking elements associated with a second pointing channel (4), each arranged in the plane of movement (E) and which can be moved by moving in the plane of movement (E) into at least one open position in which the second pointing channel (4) is released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened, and into at least one closed position in which the second pointing channel (4) is not released for the insertion of a pencil to be sharpened. [13] Sharpener according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least two closure elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) have an insertion contour formed, e.g. by a cone segment-like recess, in a closure element body, in particular for a pencil to be inserted into the at least one sharpening channel (4). [14] Sharpener according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one closure element (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) has a receiving or guiding contour (6.1.1, 6.1,2) formed, for example, by a channel-like or -shaped recess in a closure element body, by means of which the at least one return element (7.1) is received or guided on or in the at least one closure element (6.1, 6.2, 6.3). [15] Spitzer according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a guide device (8) arranged or formed in particular on the housing device (2) for guiding the at least two locking elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) during movements into the at least one open position and / or into the at least one closed position. [16] Sharpener according to claim 15, wherein the guide device (8) comprises one or more rail-like or -shaped guide elements (8.1, 8.2) which have at least partially, optionally completely, a cross-sectional geometry having at least one undercut (8.1.1, 8.1.2). [17] Spitzer according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a locking device (9) arranged or formed in particular on the housing device (2) for capturing the at least one reset element (7.1) on the housing device (2). [18] Sharpener according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least two closing elements (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) seal the at least one sharpening channel (4) in the at least one closed position, in particular being moved against each other with respective closing sections on the closing element side. [19] Spitzer according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one restoring element (7.1) is designed as an elastomeric element having restoring properties and / or comprises an elastomeric material having elastic properties and / or a material structure having elastic properties. [20] Sharpener according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one restoring element (7.1) is designed as a spring element having restoring properties, in particular a tension spring element, or comprises such a spring element.

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