Sharpener for toe a pencil

Abstract

Sharpening device (1) for sharpening a pencil (2).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a sharpening device for sharpening a pencil, which comprises a base body with at least one pencil channel defined by one or more walls and having a pencil channel axis for inserting a pencil to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device, wherein the pencil channel has a first pencil channel section formed by a first wall having a cylindrical basic shape and a second pencil channel section communicating with the first pencil channel and formed by a second wall having a conical basic shape, as well as at least one sharpening element assigned to the at least one pencil channel and having a blade-like or -shaped cutting edge, wherein the at least one sharpening element is arranged on a wall of the base body defining a sharpening element plane.

[0002] Corresponding sharpening devices are generally known in various designs from the prior art. It is also known that, when used as intended, chip-like or chip-shaped material is produced, which is removed from the pin channel via a gap extending between the cutting edge of the sharpening element and a wall of the base body.

[0003] While existing designs of corresponding sharpening devices enable a satisfactory sharpening result for a pencil to be sharpened, they are fundamentally not designed to enable or support the most controlled and / or uniform chip formation possible during the sharpening process. However, the possibility or support of controlled and / or uniform chip formation can have a positive effect on the sharpening result of pencils with certain casing and / or lead materials, i.e., particularly soft casing and / or lead materials.

[0004] Based on this, the present invention is based on the object of providing an improved sharpening device for sharpening a pencil.

[0005] The object is achieved by a sharpening device for sharpening a pencil according to independent claim 1. The dependent claims relate to possible embodiments of the sharpening device for sharpening a pencil according to independent claim 1.

[0006] A first aspect of the invention relates to a sharpening device for sharpening a pencil. The sharpening device described herein is therefore generally designed for sharpening a pencil. A pencil can be, for example, a writing, drawing, or cosmetic pencil, which has a lead made of at least one lead material and a sleeve or casing surrounding the lead made of at least one sleeve or casing material, which can in particular be a plastic material. The sharpening device can thus generally be designed for sharpening writing pencils and / or drawing pencils and / or cosmetic pencils. In particular, embodiments of the sharpening device as cosmetic pencil sharpeners are conceivable.

[0007] The sharpening device comprises a base body, which may also be referred to or considered simply as a housing. The base body is defined by one or more walls that determine its functional and / or structural configuration. Individual walls may differ in their arrangement, orientation, or shape and can therefore be distinguished from one another, for example, in terms of their arrangement, orientation, or shape. Consequently, individual walls may differ, for example, in terms of their function, whereby the function of individual walls may in turn result, for example, from their respective arrangement, orientation, or shape.

[0008] The sharpening device also comprises at least one sharpening element associated with the at least one pin channel and having a blade-like or -shaped cutting edge. The at least one sharpening element can also be referred to or considered a sharpening knife. The at least one sharpening element is arranged or fastened on a wall of the base body defining a sharpening element plane (knife bed plane). The wall defining the sharpening element plane is typically flat to enable the at least one sharpening element to rest as evenly as possible; the at least one sharpening element is typically also (substantially) flat.

[0009] The base body is formed with or comprises at least one pin channel defined by one or more corresponding walls and having a pin channel axis for inserting a pin to be sharpened by the sharpening device. The pin channel, which, as will become apparent below, can also be referred to or considered as a sharpening channel at least in sections, thus defines a space extending within the base body into which a pin to be sharpened by the sharpening device is to be inserted in order to be sharpened by the sharpening device.

[0010] The pin channel has a first pin channel section formed by a first wall having a (hollow) cylindrical basic shape and a second pin channel section which communicates with the first pin channel section or typically merges directly into it and is formed by a second wall having a conical, i.e. in particular truncated cone, basic shape. Due to its conical basic shape, the second pin channel section can taper in the direction of its free end facing away from the first pin channel section. The pin channel therefore comprises two pin channel sections which differ geometrically, i.e. in particular in their basic shape, and can be correspondingly demarcated from one another, namely a first pin channel section which is formed by a first wall having a (hollow) cylindrical basic shape and thus has a (hollow) cylindrical basic shape, and a second pin channel section which is formed by a first wall having a conical, i.e.i.e., a second wall is formed which has a conical, i.e., in particular, a truncated cone-shaped basic shape and thus has a conical, i.e., in particular, a truncated cone-shaped basic shape. The at least two pin channel sections typically each comprise a pin channel section axis, which typically coincides with the pin channel axis; the at least two pin channel sections are thus typically arranged coaxially.

[0011] The (hollow) cylindrical basic shape of the first wall or of the first pin channel section can be geometrically determined by a base circle or a plane of a base circle with a defined radius with respect to the pin channel axis, as well as by a height. The base circle typically forms the base area of ​​the hollow cylinder that determines the basic shape of the first wall. The height of the hollow cylinder typically corresponds to the length of the first wall in the direction of the pin channel axis. The radius of the base circle typically corresponds to at least 2 mm, in particular at least 2.5 mm, in particular at least 5 mm, furthermore in particular at least 7 mm, furthermore in particular at least 9 mm, furthermore in particular at least 11 mm. Commercially available writing, drawing or cosmetic pencils can therefore be inserted into the first pin channel section. In particular, so-called slim orInsert jumbo pins into the first pin channel section.

[0012] The conical basic shape of the second wall or the second pin channel section can be geometrically determined by a base circle or a plane of a base circle with a defined radius relative to the pin channel axis, by a cone or opening angle and by a height. The base circle typically forms the base area of ​​the cone or truncated cone that determines the basic shape of the second wall. The cone or opening angle can be in a range between 15 and 50°, in particular in a range between 15 and 45°, further in particular in a range between 15 and 40°, further in particular in a range between 15 and 35°, further in particular in a range between 15 and 30°, further in particular in a range between 15 and 25°, further in particular in a range between 15 and 20°. The height of the cone or truncated cone corresponds to the length dimension of the second wall in the direction of the pin channel axis.The radius of the base circle corresponds in particular to at least 2 mm, further in particular to at least 2.5 mm, so that commercially available writing, drawing or cosmetic pencils can be inserted into the second pencil channel section. The base circle can therefore have a radius greater than or equal to 2 mm, in particular a radius in a range between 2 mm and 9 mm, further in particular a radius in a range between 2 mm and 7 mm, further in particular a radius in a range between 2 mm and 5 mm. The radius of the base circle of the second wall typically corresponds to the radius of the base circle of the first wall. The radius of the base circle of the second wall can therefore be the same as the radius of the base circle of the first wall. The conical basic shape of the second wall or of the second pencil channel section can further be described or formed by a plurality of cross-sectional circles arranged parallel or coaxially to the base circle.which all have different radii, particularly depending on the axial position with respect to the pin channel axis.

[0013] The base circle forms the cross-sectional circle with the largest radius; the comparatively smaller radii of the cross-sectional circles arranged parallel to the base circle result from the cone or opening angle. The cross-sectional circle with the smallest radius can form a so-called counter hole; this applies in particular if a chip guidance section described below does not extend beyond the counter hole in the axial direction. The cross-sectional circle with the largest radius is the base circle. The second wall or the second pin channel section therefore extends axially at least between the base circle and the counter hole. However, the second pin channel section can also have the area which extends axially with respect to the pin channel axis between the counter hole and the conical tip of an imaginary cone, which forms an extension of the conical basic shape of the second pin channel section.

[0014] For all embodiments, the base circle defining the conical basic shape of the second wall, and thus also the second wall, can be interrupted in the circumferential direction, at least in the transition region from the second wall to the first wall. Typically, the second wall is also otherwise interrupted to create a possibility for removing material from the pin channel. The base circle defining the conical basic shape of the second wall, and thus the second wall, can therefore be a circular arc, at least in the transition region from the second wall to the first wall, which is free in a certain angular sector and thus forms a free space.

[0015] When viewed without the at least one sharpening element, i.e. in a not fully assembled state of the sharpening device, the angular sector or free space can extend in the circumferential direction, for example, over an angular range between 10 and 120°, in particular between 10 and 110°, further in particular between 10 and 100°, further in particular between 10 and 90°, further in particular between 10 and 80°, further in particular between 10 and 70°, further in particular between 10 and 60°, further in particular between 10 and 55°, further in particular between 10 and 50°, further in particular between 10 and 45°, further in particular between 10 and 40°, further in particular between 10 and 35°, further in particular between 10 and 30°, further in particular between 10 and 25°, further in particular between 10 and 20°, further in particular between 10 and 15°. The mentioned angular ranges can also form upper and lower limits of angular range intervals.

[0016] The angular ranges mentioned can refer to an imaginary (complete) cross-sectional circle of the second wall. Typically, the angular range of the clearance is larger for cross-sectional circles with comparatively smaller radii than for cross-sectional circles with comparatively larger radii.

[0017] As mentioned, the sharpening device further comprises at least one sharpening element associated with at least one pin channel and having a blade-like or shaped cutting edge. The base circle defining the conical basic shape of the second wall or the second pin channel section, and thus the second wall, is typically a circular arc in the assembled state of the sharpening device, at least in the transition region from the second wall to the first wall, which is free in an angular sector extending between the at least one sharpening element and the second wall and thus defines the gap (chip removal gap) extending between the cutting edge of the sharpening element and, in particular, the second wall of the base body, through which material removed during a sharpening process of a pin inserted into the pin channel can be removed from the pin channel.forms or limits. This angular sector extends circumferentially over a (significantly) smaller angular range than the previously mentioned angular sector. Specifically, this angular sector can extend in the circumferential direction in an angular range between 0.5 and 100°, in particular between 0.5 and 90°, further in particular between 0.5 and 80°, further in particular between 0.5 and 70°, further in particular between 0.5 and 60°, further in particular between 0.5 and 55°, further in particular between 0.5 and 50°, further in particular between 0.5 and 45°, further in particular between 0.5 and 40°, further in particular between 0.5 and 35°, further in particular between 0.5 and 30°, further in particular between 0.5 and 25°, further in particular between 0.5 and 20°, further in particular between 0.5 and 15°, further in particular between 0.5 and 10°, further in particular between 0.5 and 9°, further in particular between 0.5 and 8°, further in particular between 0.5 and 7°,furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 6°, furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 5°, furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 4°, furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 3°, furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 3°, furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 2°, furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 1°. The angular range can even be less than 1° or less than 0.5°, thus, for example, being in a range between 0.5 and 0.95°, in particular, between 0.5 and 0.75°. The specific value for the angular sector typically depends on the radius of the respective base circle. The aforementioned angular ranges can also form upper and lower limits of angular range intervals.

[0018] The angular ranges mentioned here can also refer to an imaginary (complete) cross-sectional circle of the second wall. Typically, the angular range of the clearance is larger for cross-sectional circles with comparatively smaller radii than for cross-sectional circles with comparatively larger radii.

[0019] The angular extent of the gap in the circumferential direction is therefore typically also below 30°. Specifically, the angular extent of the gap can be between 0.5 and 100°, in particular between 0.5 and 90°, further in particular between 0.5 and 80°, further in particular between 0.5 and 70°, further in particular between 0.5 and 60°, further in particular between 0.5 and 55°, further in particular between 0.5 and 50°, further in particular between 0.5 and 45°, further in particular between 0.5 and 40°, further in particular between 0.5 and 35°, further in particular between 0.5 and 30°, further in particular between 0.5 and 25°, further in particular between 0.5 and 20°, further in particular between 0.5 and 15°, further in particular between 0.5 and 10°, further in particular between 0.5 and 9°, further in particular between 0.5 and 8°, further in particular between 0.5 and 7°, further in particular between 0.5 and 6°, further in particular between 0.5 and 5°, further in particular between 0.5 and 4°,furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 3°, furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 3°, furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 2°, furthermore, in particular, between 0.5 and 1°. The angular range may even be less than 1°, thus, in a range between 0.5 and 0.95°, in particular, between 0.5 and 0.75°. The aforementioned angular ranges may also form upper and lower limits of angular range intervals.

[0020] The angular ranges mentioned here can also refer to an imaginary (complete) cross-sectional circle of the second wall. Typically, the angular range of the gap is larger for cross-sectional circles with comparatively smaller radii than for cross-sectional circles with comparatively larger radii.

[0021] For example, a lower angle limit of 0.5° can result from a gap width of 0.1 mm and a corresponding cross-sectional radius of 11.5 mm. Alternatively or additionally, an angle range of 35° can result from a gap width of 0.75 mm and a corresponding cross-sectional radius of 1.25 mm.

[0022] The gap, also referred to as the chip removal gap, through which the material removed during the sharpening process of a pin inserted into the pin channel can be removed from the pin channel, is thus formed by the opposing regions of the at least one sharpening element, i.e., in particular, the at least one sharpening element, and the second wall. As mentioned, this gap is comparatively narrow compared to conventional sharpening devices and has a comparatively small angular extent, which has a positive effect on chip formation.It was surprisingly discovered that comparatively small angular extensions of the gap, in particular angular extensions of less than 10°, in particular less than 5°, further in particular less than 2.5°, further in particular less than 1°, can have a positive effect on chip formation during a sharpening process of a pencil to be sharpened, thus enabling controlled and uniform chip formation.

[0023] The gap in the base circle defining the conical basic shape of the second wall can extend in a front region of the second wall in the circumferential direction over a large angular sector, i.e., in particular, over more than 45°, since the radius in the front region can be very small or the gap can cover a larger angular range. Here, the angular sector, when viewed relative to the radius or circumference, can therefore be comparatively large.

[0024] For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that the base circle defining the cylindrical basic shape of the first wall and thus also the first wall can be interrupted in the circumferential direction, at least in sections, in particular in the transition region, from the first wall to the second wall.

[0025] The base body can comprise one or more fastening interfaces that enable the arrangement or fastening of the at least one pointed element on the wall defining the pointed element plane. A corresponding fastening interface can be, for example, an opening, optionally provided with a thread, in the wall defining the pointed element plane, into which opening a fastening element, e.g. a screw-shaped one, can engage for the purpose of fastening the at least one pointed element on the wall defining the pointed element plane. The wall defining the pointed element plane can co-delimit the first and / or the second pin channel section; the first and / or the second wall can thus merge, at least in sections, into the wall defining the pointed element plane.

[0026] In a cross-sectional view, the at least one pointed element can be arranged at right angles to the pin channel axis on a secant through the base circle defining the base area of ​​the second wall or the second pin channel section, or can define such a secant. The secant is typically covered by 50% or less by the at least one pointed element. The at least one pointed element therefore typically extends into the base circle by at most 50% of the length of the section of the secant intersecting the base circle. This results in a chip removal gap that is significantly smaller than in the prior art and is thus formed in particular by the area of ​​the secant or the section of the secant intersecting the base circle that is not covered by the at least one pointed element.

[0027] The center point of the secant can be arranged in a corresponding cross-sectional view at a right angle to the pin channel axis at a distance of between 0.01 and 0.5 mm, in particular between 0.01 and 0.45 mm, further in particular between 0.01 and 0.4 mm, further in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.35 mm, from the nearest edge of the base circle defining the base area of ​​the second wall or the second pin channel section. The distance of the secant, defined by the perpendicular to the secant, from the nearest edge of the base circle defining the base area of ​​the second wall or the second pin channel section can thus be between 0.01 and 0.5 mm, in particular between 0.01 and 0.45 mm, further in particular between 0.01 and 0.4 mm, further in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.35 mm.This also applies if, as mentioned above, the base circle is interrupted in the circumferential direction; in this case, one can assume an imaginary circumferentially closed base circle. The secant therefore typically lies (significantly) above the center of the base circle.

[0028] At least the second pin channel section has a chip guide section extending in the direction, in particular in the longitudinal direction, of the pin channel axis. At least the second pin channel section is thus formed with a chip guide section extending in particular in the longitudinal direction of the pin channel axis. The chip guide section is designed in particular to form and / or guide a chip created during a sharpening process out of the sharpening channel. The chip guide section can lie, in particular with its free end opposite the at least one sharpening element, on a radius related to the pin channel axis, which radius can be greater than the radius related to the pin channel axis on which the cutting edge of the at least one sharpening element lies. In this way, a particularly expedient chip guide function is provided. The chip guide section opens orfundamentally promotes the possibility of improved chip formation compared to the state of the art with regard to the possibility of controlled and uniform chip formation.

[0029] The chip guide section is typically circular in cross-section. However, designs with other cross-sectional shapes, such as a trapezoidal or free-form shape, are also conceivable.

[0030] The chip guide section can be located (essentially) above the pointed element plane or above the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element, at least in sections, i.e. in particular at least in a plane defined by the base circle(s) defining the conical basic shape of the second wall or of the second pin channel portion, or a plane defined by the base area of ​​the second wall or of the second pin channel portion, viewed cross-sectionally. The at least partial arrangement of the chip guide section above the pointed element plane is a design measure to open up or promote the aforementioned possibility of improved chip formation compared to the prior art.

[0031] The chip guide section defines, with the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element, the gap, as indicated, which can generally also be referred to as a chip removal gap, through which material removed, e.g. lead and / or jacket material, can be removed from the pin channel during a sharpening process of a pin inserted into the pin channel and covered with a sleeve or jacket material, in particular in chip-shaped or chip-like form, can be removed from the pin channel. The cutting edge of the at least one pointed element and the chip guide section formed by an exposed wall section of the base body arranged adjacent to it, in particular opposite it, thus jointly delimit the gap, which can accordingly also be referred to as a chip removal gap, through which material removed during a sharpening process of a pin inserted into the pin channel can be removed from the pin channel.The chip guide section is thus arranged or designed such that, together with the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element, it defines the gap or gaps through which, during a pointing process of a pin inserted into the pin channel and covered with a sleeve or casing material, in particular in a chip-like manner, removed sleeve or casing material can be removed from the pin channel. The chip guide section can therefore extend (essentially) parallel to the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element, viewed axially with respect to the pin channel axis. The gap can thus be formed by an elongated free space extending between the chip guide section and the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element, which space extends longitudinally axially with respect to the pin channel axis.

[0032] In all embodiments, the chip guide section can form an axial extension of the second wall, which, e.g., as a web-like or web-shaped element, extends in the axial direction beyond the counter-hole in the direction of an imaginary conical tip of the second pin channel section. The second wall can thus have a corresponding axial extension, which thus forms a component of the second wall. In this case, the counter-hole forms the end of the conical basic shape, i.e., in particular, a truncated cone-like or truncated cone-shaped section, of the second wall, but not the end of the second wall or of the second pin channel section as a whole.In particular, the chip guide section can extend as a corresponding axial extension by at least 0.5 mm, more particularly by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 mm in the axial direction beyond the counter hole in the direction of an imaginary conical tip of the second pin channel section. The aforementioned values ​​can also form upper or lower limits of intervals.

[0033] In the circumferential direction of the base circle of the second pin channel section, the chip guide section can form a free end of the second wall which is (substantially) opposite the at least one pointed element; this applies analogously to corresponding embodiments in which the chip guide section is located at least in sections, ie in particular at least in a plane defined by the base circle defining the conical basic shape of the second wall or of the second pin channel section or a plane defined by the base area of ​​the second wall or of the second pin channel section, viewed cross-sectionally (substantially) above the pointed element plane or above the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element.

[0034] The chip guide section essentially provides the ability to enable or support the most controlled chip formation possible during the sharpening process of a pencil being sharpened using the sharpening device. The width of the gap is crucial for enabling or supporting the most controlled chip formation possible during the sharpening process of a pencil being sharpened.

[0035] It was found that, surprisingly, a width of less than or equal to 0.75 mm leads to well-controlled or controllable chip formation. The gap therefore has a width of less than or equal to 0.75 mm, at least in sections. The gap is therefore not wider than 0.75 mm, at least in sections. In particular, the gap can have a width of less than or equal to 0.7 mm, at least in sections, more particularly less than or equal to 0.65 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.60 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.55 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.50 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.45 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.40 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.35 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.30 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.25 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.20 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.15 mm, more particularly less than or equal to 0.10 mm.

[0036] Due to the very small width of the gap, at least in sections, or the small dimensions of the gap in the width direction, the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element can, at least in sections, almost lie against the chip guide section (and vice versa).

[0037] The angular range that the gap occupies in relation to the pin channel axis is (significantly) reduced compared to the prior art by the region of the second wall or of the second pin channel section that forms the chip guide section, thereby reducing the gap width. The chip guide section can therefore be defined as a region of the wall delimiting the second pin channel section, in which the wall lies in an angular sector in which a respective cross-sectional circle defining a cross-section of the second pin channel section lies above the pointed element plane and creates a narrowing of the gap compared to the prior art. This can apply to any plane of the second pin channel section that is arranged parallel to the base circle in the direction of the free end of the second pin channel section. A cross-sectional circle is a plane that is parallel to the base circle orA circle arranged parallel to the plane of the base circle, but arranged in a plane axially spaced from the base circle with respect to the tip channel axis. A cross-sectional circle can form a so-called "counter-hole," and this cross-sectional circle can be the cross-sectional circle with the smallest radius.

[0038] If the gap has a variable width in the direction of its longitudinal extent, the gap can have a width of less than or equal to 0.75 mm over at least 10%, more particularly over at least 20%, more particularly over at least 30%, more particularly over at least 40%, more particularly over at least 50%, more particularly over at least 60%, more particularly over at least 70%, more particularly over at least 80%, more particularly over at least 90% of its longitudinal extent. If the gap width is variable, with a minimum width and a maximum width, the minimum width of the gap is therefore less than or equal to 0.75 mm.

[0039] The width of the gap may correspond to the clear width between the chip guide section and the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element.

[0040] By providing a corresponding chip guide section and the geometric dimension of the gap between the chip guide section and the cutting edge of the at least one sharpening element, wherein the gap, as explained, has a width of less than or equal to 0.75 mm at least in sections, a sharpening device is provided which is improved with regard to the possibility of controlled chip formation.

[0041] The gap can in particular at least in sections have a width in a range between 0.1 mm and 0.75 mm, in particular in a range between 0.1 mm and 0.65 mm, further in particular in a range between 0.1 mm and 0.60 mm, further in particular in a range between 0.1 mm and 0.55 mm, further in particular in a range between 0.1 mm and 0.50 mm, further in particular in a range between 0.1 mm and 45 mm, further in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.4 mm, further in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.35 mm, further in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, further in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.25 mm, further in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.2 mm, further in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.15 mm. Particularly good sharpening results are achieved when the gap has a width in a range between 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm, in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, at least in sections.

[0042] Expedient embodiments of the sharpening device provide the following: as mentioned, the conical basic shape of the second wall is defined by a base circle. Viewed in cross-section, the second wall can define at least one cross-sectional circle arranged parallel to the base circle, which has a radius greater than or equal to 1.5 mm, in particular a radius in a range between 1.5 mm and 4 mm, furthermore in particular a radius in a range between 1.5 mm and 3 mm, furthermore in particular a radius between 1.5 mm and 2 mm. The gap can have a width in the region of the at least one cross-sectional circle of less than or equal to 0.75 mm, in particular less than or equal to 0.5 mm. The at least one cross-sectional circle can be the aforementioned counter hole or the at least one cross-sectional circle can form the aforementioned counter hole.

[0043] The chip guide section is typically rigidly and thus immovably connected to the base body. This means in particular that the chip guide section cannot be changed, in particular substantially, in its orientation and / or position, particularly when a pin is inserted and / or removed from the pin channel. The chip guide section is therefore typically not or hardly deflected or moved, even during a sharpening process of a pin to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device. A correspondingly rigid and thus immovable connection to the base body results in particularly good chip guidance, which results in particular from the fact that the chip guide section is not deflected or moved during a sharpening process of a pin to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device, as mentioned.The rigid design and connection of the chip guide section may, however, allow for slight deflections or deformations of the chip guide section, at least in the front area, depending on the material, particularly due to the corresponding structural properties of a pencil to be sharpened. Such deflections or deformations of the chip guide section can range between 0.1 and 0.2 mm.

[0044] The rigid and thus immovable connection of the chip guide section to the base body can be achieved in particular by forming the chip guide section in one piece or integrally with the base body. The one-piece or integral design with the base body can also provide manufacturing advantages, as the chip guide section can be formed in a single manufacturing step with the base body. It should be generally noted at this point that the base body can be formed, for example, from an injection-moldable plastic material.

[0045] The free end of the chip guide section opposite the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element can be formed with or have an inclined surface. Viewed in cross-section, the inclined surface can form a section of an imaginary secant through the base circle of the conical basic shape of the second wall forming the second pin channel section or can be formed by such a secant. A corresponding secant typically does not pass through the center of the base circle. The inclined surface can support a chip forming during a sharpening process of a pin to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device and thus contribute to controlled chip formation and to better removal of a chip from the pin channel.

[0046] Analogously, a design with a correspondingly curved surface would also be conceivable. The free end of the chip guide section opposite the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element could thus also be designed with or have a correspondingly curved surface.

[0047] In order to further promote or support controlled chip formation, the chip guide section can have a section that projects (essentially) radially into the second pin channel section, i.e. in particular into the base circle or a respective cross-sectional circle, with respect to the pointed channel axis. The chip guide section can therefore have a section that projects radially into the second pin channel section with respect to the pin channel axis, which section is in particular designed and intended to exert a force (pressure) acting radially on a pin section inserted into the second pin channel section. The section of the chip guide section that projects into the second pin channel section can thus in particular be designed and intended to reduce the cutting depth of the at least one pointed element into the respective affected pin section by a certain amount or to limit it to a certain amount.In particular, the section of the chip guide section projecting into the second pin channel section can be configured and provided to exert a force, in particular radially relative to the pin channel axis, on a front pin section having an exposed lead section, in particular a conical front pin section, of a pin section inserted into the second pin channel section, in particular such that the cutting depth of the at least one pointed element in the respective affected pin section is reduced by a certain amount or limited to a certain amount.

[0048] The section of the chip guide section projecting into the second pin channel section can thus press, in particular radially with respect to the pin channel axis, on a pin inserted into the pin channel, in particular a front pin section having an exposed lead section, in order to "move" the pin a certain amount away from the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element. In this way, as mentioned, the cutting depth of the at least one pointed element in the respective affected pin section can be reduced by a certain amount or limited to a certain amount, so that the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element can be prevented from cutting too deeply into the pin inserted into the pin channel or into a sleeve or casing surrounding the lead of the pin inserted into the pin channel, which is particularly problematic with sleeves or casings made of comparatively soft materials, such as, for example, plastic.plastic materials, leads to an undesirable build-up or growth of the chip, to uncontrolled chip formation and thus to uneven material removal. The section of the chip guide section which projects into the second pin channel section can thus, as mentioned, limit the cutting depth of the at least one pointed element, since the available radius is smaller than the radius of the pin guide and the insertion of the pin is now limited by this radius. This radius limitation can lead to the sleeve or jacket material of a pin inserted into the second pin channel section being pressed radially inwards with respect to the pin channel axis and thus the undesirable effect of the sleeve or jacket material being pulled up or pushed up in this area near the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element can be reduced or prevented.In practice, this deformation allows the pencil to be inserted into the pencil channel just as deeply as with conventional sharpeners, but in contrast to conventional sharpeners, controlled chip formation is possible.

[0049] The section of the chip guide section projecting into the second pin channel section can be formed in particular in the above-mentioned region of the second pin channel section, which region extends axially with respect to the pin channel axis between the counter hole and the conical tip of an imaginary cone which forms an extension of the conical basic shape of the second pin channel section.

[0050] A chip guide section configured in this way can, in particular, improve chip formation in the front area of ​​corresponding sleeves or casings, i.e., in an area of ​​the corresponding sleeves or casings axially opposite an exposed section of the lead, because the corresponding sleeves or casings are typically thin or weak in this front area of ​​a respective pencil. The front area of ​​the corresponding sleeves or casings includes, in particular, the section emerging from a corresponding pencil section.As described, these areas in particular can be pushed away from the cutting edge of the at least one sharpening element by a correspondingly configured chip guide section to a certain extent, which enables a (largely) constant chip formation throughout a sharpening process of a pencil to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device and thus independent of the number of rotations of the pencil relative to the at least one sharpening element.

[0051] The portion of the chip guide portion projecting into the second pin channel portion can, in particular, be configured and provided to realize an arrangement of a pin portion inserted into the second pin channel portion relative to the cutting edge of the at least one sharpening element, which realizes a corresponding limitation of the cutting depth. The arrangement is selected such that, as described, a (largely) constant chip formation can be realized throughout a sharpening process of a pin to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device and thus regardless of the number of rotations of the pin relative to the at least one sharpening element.

[0052] The portion of the chip guide portion extending into the second pin channel portion can, in particular, be arranged and / or dimensioned such that it acts on a pin portion emerging from a corresponding counter-hole. In this way, the pin inserted into the second pin channel portion can be conveniently positioned relative to the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element, which, as described, can promote (largely) constant chip formation.

[0053] The portion of the chip guide portion extending into the second pin channel portion can alternatively or additionally be arranged or formed in the region of the center of the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element in the longitudinal direction with respect to a longitudinal extension of the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element—the longitudinal extension of the cutting edge of the at least one pointed element is typically substantially parallel or inclined to the pin channel axis. In this way, it is possible for the portion of the chip guide portion extending into the second pin channel portion to act, as described, on a pin portion inserted into the pin channel portion to promote (largely) constant chip formation.

[0054] Specifically, the portion of the chip guide portion extending into the second pin channel portion can extend into the second pin channel portion by at least 0.1 mm. The portion of the chip guide portion extending into the second pin channel portion can thus have dimensions of at least 0.1 mm in the radial direction relative to the pin channel axis. In particular, the portion of the chip guide portion extending into the second pin channel portion can have dimensions in a range between 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm in the radial direction relative to the pin channel axis.

[0055] The sharpener can generally be designed as a single-point sharpener with only one pin channel or as a multiple-point sharpener with several, particularly (essentially) parallel, pin or point channels. In multiple-point sharpener designs, the sharpener can have a corresponding chip guide section for each pin or point channel. The above explanations apply analogously.

[0056] A second aspect of the invention relates to a method for sharpening a pencil by means of a sharpening device according to the first aspect. The method comprises in particular the following steps: inserting a pencil to be sharpened into the pencil channel of the base body of the sharpening device, and moving the pencil relative to the at least one sharpening element to remove material from the pencil, wherein the removed material, in particular in chip-like or chip-shaped, produced during the sharpening process of the pencil inserted into the pencil channel is discharged from the pin channel via the gap. As can be seen from the description of the sharpening device according to the first aspect of the invention, the method can be used to achieve controlled chip formation, i.e. in particular (largely) constant chip formation, during a sharpening process of a pencil.

[0057] All statements in connection with the sharpening device according to the first aspect of the invention apply analogously to the method according to the second aspect of the invention and vice versa.

[0058] The invention is explained again below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. Fig. 1 - 5 Schematic diagrams of a sharpening device according to different embodiments; Fig. 6 a schematic diagram of a sharpening device according to the state of the art; and Fig. 7, 8 Schematic diagrams of a pencil sharpened with a sharpening device according to the invention ( Fig. 7 ) and a pencil which was sharpened with a sharpening device not according to the invention according to the prior art ( Fig. 8 ). The Fig. 1 - 5 show schematic diagrams of a sharpening device 1 according to different embodiments, wherein Fig. 1 shows a cross-sectional view through a sharpening device 1 according to an embodiment, the Fig. 2a - 2c show several cross-sectional views of a sharpening device 1 according to an embodiment and the top view according to Fig. 2d shows the corresponding cutting planes, the Fig. 3a, 3b each show a plan view of a sharpening device 1 according to an embodiment, the Fig. 4a - 4c each show partially sectioned views of an exemplary embodiment of a sharpening device 1 as a multiple sharpener, and the Fig. 5a, 5b , 5c each show differently enlarged cross-sectional views (at the level of the base circle of the second wall 3.2) through a sharpening device 1 with inserted pin 2 according to an embodiment. Fig. 6 shows a cross-sectional view through a sharpening device according to the prior art, in particular in comparison to the view of the sharpening device according to Fig. 5c .

[0059] The Fig. 7, 8 show schematic diagrams of a pencil 2 which was sharpened with a sharpening device 1 according to the invention ( Fig. 7 ) and a pencil which was sharpened with a sharpening device not according to the invention according to the prior art ( Fig. 8 ).

[0060] In all embodiments, the sharpening device 1 is configured for sharpening a pencil 2, which is only indicated schematically in the figures, if at all. A pencil 2 may be, for example, a writing, drawing, or cosmetic pencil, which has a lead 2.1 made of a lead material and a sleeve or casing 2.2 surrounding the lead 2.1 made of a sleeve or casing material, which may in particular be a plastic material.

[0061] The sharpening device 1 comprises a base body 3, which can also be referred to or considered as a housing. The base body 3 is defined by one or more walls 3.1 - 3.n that determine its functional and / or structural configuration. Respective walls 3.1 - 3.n can differ in their arrangement, orientation, or shape and can thus be distinguished from one another, for example, in terms of their arrangement, orientation, or shape. Consequently, respective walls 3.1 - 3.n can differ, for example, in their function, whereby the function of respective walls 3.1 - 3.n can in turn result, for example, from their respective arrangement, orientation, or shape.

[0062] The base body 3 is formed with or comprises at least one pin channel 4, defined by one or more corresponding walls 3.1-3.n and having a pin channel axis A, for inserting a pin 2 to be sharpened by the sharpening device 1. The pin channel 4, which can also be referred to or considered as a sharpening channel at least in part, thus defines a space extending within the base body 3, into which a pin 2 to be sharpened by the sharpening device 1 is to be inserted in order to be sharpened by the sharpening device 1.

[0063] In particular, based on the sectional view according to Fig. 4a it can be seen that the pin channel 4 has a first pin channel section 4.1 formed by a first wall 3.1 having a (hollow) cylindrical basic shape and a second pin channel section 4.2 communicating with the first wall 3.1 or typically directly merging into the second wall 3.2, which is formed by a conical, ie in particular a truncated cone-like, basic shape (it is irrelevant that Fig. 4a refers to an embodiment of the sharpener device 1 as a single sharpener, as the basic configuration of the pin channel 4 is the same even for multiple sharpeners). The pin channel 4 thus comprises two pin channel sections 4.1, 4.2 which differ geometrically, i.e. in particular in their shape, and can be demarcated from one another, namely the first pin channel section 4.1, which is formed by the first wall 3.1 having a (hollow) cylindrical basic shape and thus also has a (hollow) cylindrical basic shape, and the second pin channel section 4.2, which is formed by the second wall 3.2 having a conical, i.e. in particular frustoconical, basic shape and thus also has a conical, i.e. in particular frustoconical, basic shape. The second pin channel section 4.2 has, in particular in the region of its free end, at least as far as its conical basic shape is concerned, a counter-hole 10 delimited by wall sections of the second wall (cf. in particular . Fig. 4b, 4c ).

[0064] The pin channel sections 4.1, 4.2 each comprise a pin channel section axis, which typically coincides with the pin channel axis A; the pin channel sections 4.1, 4.2 are thus typically arranged coaxially and, in the exemplary embodiments, merge directly into one another axially with respect to the pin channel axis A.

[0065] The (hollow) cylindrical basic shape of the first wall 3.1 or the first pin channel section 4.1 is geometrically determined by a base circle or a plane of a base circle with a defined radius relative to the pin channel axis A, as well as by a height. The base circle forms the base area of ​​the hollow cylinder that determines the basic shape of the first wall 3.1. The height of the hollow cylinder corresponds to the length dimension of the first wall 3.1 in the direction of the pin channel axis A. The radius of the base circle typically corresponds to at least 2 mm, in particular at least 2.5 mm, further in particular at least 5 mm, so that commercially available writing, drawing, or cosmetic pencils can be inserted into the first pin channel section 4.1.

[0066] The conical basic shape of the second wall 3.2 or the second pin channel section 4.2 is geometrically determined by a base circle or a plane of a base circle with a defined radius with respect to the pin channel axis A, by a cone or opening angle, and by a height. The base circle typically forms the base area of ​​the cone or truncated cone that determines the basic shape of the second wall 3.2. The cone or opening angle can, for example, be in a range between 15 and 50°, in particular in a range between 15 and 45°, furthermore in particular in a range between 15 and 40°, furthermore in particular in a range between 15 and 35°, furthermore in particular in a range between 15 and 30°, furthermore in particular in a range between 15 and 25°, furthermore in particular in a range between 15 and 20°. The height of the cone or truncated cone corresponds to the length dimension of the second wall 3.2 in the direction of the pin channel axis A.The radius of the base circle of the second wall 3.2 typically corresponds to the radius of the base circle of the first wall 3.1. The radius of the base circle of the second wall 3.2 can therefore be equal to the radius of the base circle of the first wall 3.1. Specifically, the radius of the base circle of the second wall can be at least 2.5 mm, so that standard writing, drawing, or cosmetic pencils can be inserted into the second pencil channel section 4.2.

[0067] As can be seen in particular from the cross-sectional view according to Fig. 5c As can be seen, the base circle defining the conical basic shape of the second wall 3.2 and thus also the second wall 3.2 can be interrupted in the circumferential direction. This can apply in particular to the transition area from the second wall 3.2 to the first wall 2.1. The base circle defining the conical basic shape of the second wall 3.2 and thus the second wall 3.2 can therefore be an arc of a circle which is free in a certain angular sector; the angular sector α can contain the gap 8 extending between the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5 and a wall of the base body 3, via which gap 8 material produced during a pointed process of a pin 2 inserted into the pin channel 4 can be removed from the pin channel 4. The angular sector α can therefore extend in the circumferential direction, e.g. B. extend over an angular range between 0.5 and 30°, in particular between 0.5 and 25°, more particularly between 0.5 and 20°.The angular range can vary depending on the respective axial position of the second wall 3.2.

[0068] Based on Fig. 5c also shows the angular extent of the gap 8, indicated by the angle α, through which material removed during a sharpening process of a pin 2 inserted into the pin channel 4 can be removed from the pin channel 4. The angular extent of this gap 8 in the circumferential direction is very small due to the small dimensions of this gap 8 and is below 10° in the exemplary embodiment. Specifically, the angular extent of this gap 8 can be less than or equal to 9°, more particularly less than or equal to 8°, more particularly less than or equal to 7°, more particularly less than or equal to 6°, more particularly less than or equal to 5°, more particularly less than or equal to 4°, more particularly less than or equal to 3°, more particularly less than or equal to 2°, more particularly less than or equal to 1°, more particularly less than or equal to 0.5°.It was surprisingly found that comparatively small angular extensions of the gap 8, thus angular extensions of less than 10°, in particular less than 5°, further in particular less than 5°, can have a positive effect on chip formation during a sharpening process of a pencil 2 to be sharpened, thus enabling controlled and uniform chip formation.

[0069] Fig. 6 shows that the corresponding angle sector β is significantly larger in a state-of-the-art sharpening device.

[0070] The sharpening device 1 therefore also comprises a sharpening element 5 which is assigned to the (respective) pin channel 4 and has a blade-like or -shaped cutting edge 5.1. The sharpening element 5 can also be referred to or considered a sharpening knife. The sharpening element 5 is arranged or fastened on a wall 3.3 of the base body 3 which defines a sharpening element plane E. The wall 3.3 defining the sharpening element plane E, which can also be referred to as the knife bed plane, is typically designed to be flat in order to enable the sharpening element 5, which in the exemplary embodiments is also designed to be flat, at least in the area of ​​the underside facing the sharpening element plane E, to rest as evenly as possible.

[0071] The base body 3 can comprise one or more fastening interfaces (not shown in detail) (not labeled) that enable the arrangement or fastening of the pointed element 5 on the wall 3.3 defining the pointed element plane E. A corresponding fastening interface can be, for example, an opening, optionally provided with a thread, in the wall 3.3 defining the pointed element plane E, into which a fastening element 6, e.g., a screw-shaped fastening element, can engage for the purpose of fastening the pointed element 5 on the wall 3.3 defining the pointed element plane E. The wall 3.3 defining the pointed element plane E can co-delimit the first and / or second pin channel section 4.1, 4.2; the first and / or second wall 3.1, 3.2 can thus merge, at least in sections, into the wall 3.3 defining the pointed element plane E.

[0072] In particular, based on the Fig. 2a - 2c and based on the Fig. 5c It can be seen that the pointed element 5, in particular its underside, can be arranged or aligned in a cross-sectional view at right angles to the pin channel axis A on a secant S through the base circle defining the base area of ​​the second wall or the second pin channel section 4.2 or defines such a secant S. The secant S is typically covered by the pointed element 5 by a maximum of 50%. The pointed element 5 therefore typically extends by at least 50% of the length of the secant S or the length of the section of the secant S intersecting the base circle into the base circle of the second wall 3.2.

[0073] Based on Fig. 5c It can be seen that the center point of the secant S in a corresponding cross-sectional view can be arranged at a right angle to the pin channel axis A with a distance a between 0.01 and 0.5 mm, in particular between 0.01 and 0.45 mm, further in particular between 0.01 and 0.4 mm, further in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.35 mm, spaced from the nearest edge of the base circle BK defining the base area of ​​the second wall 3.2 or the second pin channel section 4.2. The distance a of the secant S, defined by the perpendicular L to the secant S, to the nearest edge of the base circle defining the base area of ​​the second wall 3.2 or the second pin channel section 4.2, can therefore be between 0.01 and 0.5 mm, in particular between 0.01 and 0.45 mm, further in particular between 0.01 and 0.4 mm, further in particular between 0.1 mm and 0.35 mm. This also applies if the base circle BK, as in Fig. 5c shown, is interrupted in the circumferential direction. In this case, as shown in Fig. 5c As indicated by dashed lines, we assume an imaginary circumferentially closed base circle BK. The secant S is therefore typically located (significantly) above the center Z of the base circle BK.

[0074] At least the second pin channel section 4.2 has a chip guide section 7 extending in the direction, in particular in the longitudinal direction, of the pin channel axis A. The chip guide section 7 is designed in particular to form and / or guide a chip produced during a sharpening process out of the sharpening channel 4. The chip guide section can, as in Fig. 1 As illustrated, in particular with its free end opposite the pointed element 5, it lies on a radius R1 relative to the pin channel axis A, which radius R1 can be larger than the radius R2 relative to the pin channel axis A, on which the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5 lies. In this way, a particularly useful, because controlled and uniform, chip guidance function is provided.

[0075] The chip guide section 7 can, as Fig. 1 As shown in the example, the cross-section is circular in shape. Fig. 5a - 5c Other embodiments are shown; the chip guide section 7 is again designed as a strip-like or shaped purely by way of example. In principle, designs with other cross-sectional shapes, such as a trapezoidal shape or a free form, are conceivable. The chip 9 that can be produced with the sharpening device 1 is shown in the Fig. 5a, 5b indicated by way of example.

[0076] From the figure it can be seen that the chip guide section 7 can be located at least in sections, ie in particular at least in a plane defined by the base circle defining the conical basic shape of the second wall 3.2 or the second pin channel section 4.2 or a plane defining the base area of ​​the second wall 3.2 or the second pin channel section 4.2, viewed cross-sectionally above the pointed element plane E or above the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5 (cf. in particular also Fig. 2b, 2c ). The arrangement of the chip guide section 7 above the pointed element plane E opens up or, in principle, favours the possibility of improved chip formation compared to the state of the art with regard to controllability and uniformity.

[0077] The chip guide section 7, together with the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5, defines a gap 8, also referred to as a chip removal gap, through which, during a sharpening process of a pin 2 inserted into the pin channel 4 and covered with a sleeve or casing material 2.2, in particular in a chip-like manner, removed lead and / or casing material can be removed from the pin channel 4. The cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5 and the chip guide section 7 formed by an exposed wall section of the base body 3 arranged adjacent to it, in particular opposite it, jointly delimit the gap 8, through which removed material resulting during a sharpening process of a pin 2 inserted into the pin channel 4 can be removed from the pin channel 4. The chip guide section 7 is thus arranged or designed such that, together with the cutting edge 5.11 of the pointed element 5 defines a gap 8, through which, during a sharpening process of a pin 2, which is inserted into the pin channel 4 and covered with a sleeve or casing material 2.2, in particular in the form of chips or chips, removed lead and / or casing material can be removed from the pin channel 8. In particular with reference to . Fig. 4b It can be seen that the chip guide section 7, viewed axially with respect to the pin channel axis A, can thus extend substantially parallel to the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5. The gap 8 can thus be formed by an elongated free space extending between the chip guide section 7 and the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5, which extends in the longitudinal direction axially with respect to the pin channel axis A.

[0078] In the circumferential direction of the base circle of the second wall 3.2 or of the second pin channel section 4.2, the chip guide section 7 can form a free end of the second wall 3.2 which is (essentially) opposite the pointed element 5; this applies analogously to corresponding embodiments in which the chip guide section 7, at least in sections, i.e. in particular at least in a plane defined by the base circle defining the conical basic shape of the second wall 3.2 or of the second pin channel section 4.2 or a plane defined by the base area of ​​the second wall 3.2 or of the second pin channel section 4.2, when viewed cross-sectionally, lies (essentially) above the pointed element plane E or above the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5.

[0079] The chip guide section 7 basically makes it possible to enable or support the most controlled chip formation possible during a sharpening process of a pencil 2 to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device 1. The width b of the gap 8 is essential for the ability to enable or support the most controlled chip formation possible during a sharpening process of a pencil 2 to be sharpened. It was found that, surprisingly, a width b of less than or equal to 0.75 mm, in particular less than 0.5 mm, leads to well-controlled or controllable chip formation. The gap 8 therefore has a width of less than or equal to 0.75 mm, in particular less than 0.5 mm, at least in sections. The gap 8 is therefore not wider than 0.75 mm, in particular not wider than 0.5 mm, at least in sections. Due to the narrow width b of the gap 8 orDue to the small dimensions of the gap 8 in the width direction, the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5 can, at least in sections, almost abut the chip guide section 7 (and vice versa). For example, in the embodiment according to . Fig. 2 purely as an example, a variant is shown in which the width of the gap 8 is always below 0.35 mm.

[0080] Specifically, the radius of the base circle of the second wall 3.2 can be greater than or equal to 2 mm, for example, and the gap can have a width of less than or equal to 0.75 mm, at least in some sections. In particular, the radius of the base circle of the second wall 3.2 can be in a range between 2 and 4 mm, in particular between 2 and 3 mm, and the gap can have a width of less than or equal to 0.75 mm, at least in some sections. With appropriate dimensions, very good results with regard to controlled and uniform chip formation have been demonstrated, particularly for sharpening cosmetic pencils.

[0081] Referring to Fig. 5c It can be seen that the angular range which the gap 8 occupies in relation to the pin channel axis A, through the area of ​​the second wall 3.2 or the second pin channel section 4.2 forming the chip guide section 7, in comparison to the Fig. 6 shown prior art, whereby the gap width is significantly reduced. The angular range occupied by the gap in the prior art is spanned, on the one hand, by the angular range occupied by the circular arc of a cross-sectional circle which, viewed cross-sectionally, is delimited from the rest of the cross-sectional circle by the line of the tip element plane (knife bed plane), and, on the other hand, is further delimited by the tip element. The chip guide section 7 can accordingly be defined as a region of the wall delimiting the second pin channel section 4.2, in which said wall lies in an angular sector in which a respective cross-sectional circle defining a cross-section of the second pin channel section lies above the tip element plane E and creates a narrowing of the gap 8 compared to the prior art. This can be done for each wall extending in the direction of the free end of the second pin channel section 4.2, the plane of the second pin channel section 4.2 arranged parallel to the base circle applies. A cross-sectional circle is understood to be a circle arranged parallel to the plane of the base circle, but axially spaced from the base circle with respect to the pin channel axis A.

[0082] If the gap 8, as also purely exemplary in the embodiment according to Fig. 2 shown, has a width b that is variable in the direction of its longitudinal extent, the following applies: a variable gap width is defined by a minimum width and a maximum width, wherein the minimum width of the gap 8 is less than or equal to 0.5 mm. In the embodiment according to Fig. 2 For example, both the minimum and maximum widths of gap 8 are below 0.5 mm.

[0083] It is also evident from the figure that the width b of the gap 8, which, as mentioned, can also be referred to as the chip removal gap, can correspond to the clear width between the chip guide section 7 and the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5.

[0084] By providing the chip guide section 7 and the geometric dimension of the gap 8 between the chip guide section 7 and the cutting edge 5.1 of the sharpening element 5, wherein the gap 8, as explained, has a width of less than or equal to 0.5 mm at least in sections, a sharpening device 1 is provided which is improved with regard to the possibility of controlled chip formation.

[0085] The chip guide section 7 is typically rigidly and thus immovably connected to the base body 3. This means, in particular, that the chip guide section 7 cannot or hardly changes its orientation and / or position, particularly when inserting and / or removing a pin 2 into the pin channel 4. The chip guide section 7 is therefore not deflected or moved even during a sharpening process of a pin 2 to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device 1. A correspondingly rigid and thus immovable connection to the base body 3 realizes a particularly good chip guidance option, which results in particular from the fact that the chip guide section 7 is not deflected or moved during a sharpening process of a pin 2 to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device 1, as mentioned.The rigid design and connection of the chip guide section 7 may nevertheless, depending on the material, allow slight deflections or deformations of the chip guide section 7, at least in the front area, in particular due to corresponding structural properties of a pencil to be sharpened.

[0086] The figure shows that a rigid and thus immovable connection of the chip guide section 7 to the base body 3 can be realized by forming the chip guide section 7 in one piece or integrally with the base body 3. The one-piece or integral design with the base body 3 can also bring manufacturing advantages, as the chip guide section 7 can be formed in a common manufacturing step with the base body 3. At this point, it should be generally noted that the base body 3 can be formed, for example, from an injection-moldable plastic material.

[0087] The figure also shows that the free end of the chip guide section 7 opposite the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5 is or can have an inclined surface 7.1. Viewed in cross section, the inclined surface 7.1 can form a section of an imaginary secant through the base circle of the conical basic shape of the second wall 3.2 forming the second pin channel section 4.2 or can be formed by such a secant. A corresponding secant typically does not pass through the center of the base circle. The inclined surface 7.1 can support a chip forming during a sharpening process of a pin 2 to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device 1 and thus contribute to controlled chip formation and to better removal of a chip from the pin channel.

[0088] Although not shown, a similar design with a correspondingly curved surface would also be conceivable. The free end of the chip guide section 7 opposite the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5 could thus also be designed with or have a correspondingly curved surface.

[0089] In order to further promote or support controlled chip formation, the chip guide section 7 can have a section 7.2 that projects (essentially) radially into the second pin channel section 4.2 with respect to the pin channel axis A (cf. in particular Fig. 4a - 4c ). The chip guide section 7 can thus have a section which projects radially with respect to the pin channel axis A into the second pin channel section 4.2, which section is particularly designed and intended to exert a force (pressure) acting radially on a pin 2 inserted into the second pin channel section 4.2. The section 7.2 of the chip guide section 7 which projects into the second pin channel section 4.2 can in particular be designed and intended to reduce the cutting depth of the pointed element 5 into the respective affected pin section by a certain amount or to limit it to a certain amount. In particular, the section 7.2 of the chip guide section 7 which projects into the second pin channel section 4.2 can be designed and intended to act on a front pin section having an exposed lead section, in particular a conical front pin section, of a pin inserted into the second pin channel section 4.2 inserted pin 2, a force acting in particular radially with respect to the pin channel axis A, in particular such that the cutting depth of the pointed element 5 into the respective affected pin section is reduced by a certain amount or limited to a certain amount. The direction of action of the force is shown in the enlarged view according to . Fig. 4c shown by the arrow F as an example for all embodiments.

[0090] Section 7.2 of the chip guide section 7 can therefore press, in particular radially with respect to the pin channel axis A, onto a pin 2 inserted into the second pin channel section 4.2, in particular a front pin section having an exposed lead section 2.1, in order to "move" the pin 2 away by a certain amount from the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5. As mentioned, this prevents the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5 from cutting too deeply into the pin 2 inserted into the second pin channel section 4.2 or into a sleeve or casing 2.2 surrounding the lead 2.1 of the pin 2 of the pin 2 inserted into the second pin channel section 4.2, which is particularly problematic with sleeves or casings 2.2 made of comparatively soft materials, such as, for example, plastic. B. plastic materials, leads to an undesirable build-up or growth of the chip, to uncontrolled chip formation and thus to uneven material removal.The section 7.2 of the chip guide section 7 projecting into the second pin channel section 4.2 can thus limit the theoretical cutting depth of the pointed element 5, since the available radius is smaller than the radius of the pin guide, and the insertion of the pin 2 is now limited by this radius. This radius limitation can result in the sleeve or casing material of the pin 2 inserted into the second pin channel section 4.2 being pressed radially inward with respect to the pin channel axis A, thereby reducing or preventing the undesirable effect of the sleeve or casing material being pulled up or pushed up in this area near the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5. In practice, the pin 2 can, if necessary, be inserted just as deeply into the second pin channel section 4 as the cutting edge 5.1.2 can be introduced as with conventional sharpening devices, but in contrast to conventional sharpening devices, controlled chip formation is possible.

[0091] By means of a chip guide section 7 configured in this way, improvements in chip formation can be achieved in particular in the front region of corresponding sleeves or casings 2.2, i.e. in a region of corresponding sleeves or casings 2.2 which, viewed axially, is opposite an exposed section of the lead 2.1, because corresponding sleeves or casings 2.2 are typically thin or weak in this front region of a respective pencil 2. As described, these regions in particular can be pushed away from the cutting edge 5.1 of the sharpening element 5 by a certain amount by means of a correspondingly configured chip guide section 7, which enables (largely) constant chip formation throughout a sharpening process of a pencil 2 to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device 1 and thus regardless of the number of rotations of the pencil 2 relative to the sharpening element 5.

[0092] The section 7.2 of the chip guide section 7 projecting into the second pin channel section 4.2 can, in particular, be configured and provided to define an arrangement of a pin section inserted into the second pin channel section 4.2 relative to the cutting edge 5.1 of the sharpening element 5, which arrangement realizes a corresponding limitation of the cutting depth. The arrangement is selected such that, as described, a (largely) constant chip formation can be realized throughout a sharpening process of a pin 2 to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device 1 and thus regardless of the number of rotations of the pin 2 relative to the sharpening element 5.

[0093] The section 7.2 of the chip guide section 7 projecting into the second pin channel section 4.2 can, as shown in particular in Fig. 4c is indicated by way of example, in particular be arranged and / or dimensioned such that it acts on a pin section 2 emerging from the counter hole 10. In this way, this pin section introduced into the second pin channel section 4.2 can be spaced by a certain amount from the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5, which, as described, promotes (largely) constant chip formation.

[0094] In particular, based on the Fig. 4b und 4c It can be seen that the section 7.1 of the chip guide section 7 projecting into the second pin channel section 4.2 can be arranged or formed correspondingly in the longitudinal direction with respect to a longitudinal extension of the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5 - the longitudinal extension of the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5 is typically substantially parallel or inclined to the pin channel axis A - at least in sections also in the region of the middle of the longitudinal extension of the cutting edge 5.1 of the pointed element 5. In this way, it is possible for the section 7.2 of the chip guide section 7 projecting into the second pin channel section 4.2 to act, as described, on a pin section inserted into the second pin channel section 4.2 in order to promote (largely) constant chip formation.

[0095] Specifically, the section 7.2 of the chip guide section 7 that projects into the second pin channel section 4.2 can project into the second pin channel section 4.2 by at least 0.1 mm. Section 7.2 of the chip guide section 7 can thus have dimensions of at least 0.1 mm in the radial direction relative to the pin channel axis A.

[0096] The Fig. 3 The embodiments shown in a plan view differ in the width b of the gap, which in the embodiment according to Fig. 3a for example approx. 0.1 mm and in the embodiment according to Fig. 3b for example, approximately 0.25 mm.

[0097] The improved sharpening result with the sharpening device 1 described herein results from a comparison of the Fig. 7 und Fig. 8 Improvements in the sharpening result were demonstrated, particularly for pencils 2 with soft plastic sleeves; the area of ​​the exposed lead neck is clearly reduced compared to the state of the art. A more even contour of the lead neck was also observed, as shown.

[0098] The sharpening device 1 can basically be designed as a single sharpener with only one pin channel 4 or as a multiple sharpener with several, in particular (essentially) parallel, sharpening channels 4; in designs as a multiple sharpener, the sharpening device 1 can have a corresponding chip guide section 7 for each pin channel 4.

[0099] With the embodiments of respective sharpening devices 1 shown in the figures, a method for sharpening a pencil 2 can be implemented. The method comprises in particular the following steps: inserting a pencil 2 to be sharpened into the pencil channel 4 of the base body 3 of the sharpening device 1, and moving the pencil 2 relative to the sharpening element 5 to remove material from the pencil 2, wherein the material removed during the sharpening process of the pencil 2 inserted into the pencil channel 4, in particular in chip-like or chip-shaped, is removed from the pencil channel 4 via the gap 8. With the method, a controlled chip formation, ie in particular also a (largely) constant chip formation, can be realized during a sharpening process of a pencil 2.

[0100] All dimensions specifically known and shown in connection with the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures are exemplary.

[0101] The Fig. 2a - 2c The dimensions shown, in particular the gap 8, are to be understood as purely exemplary; none of the embodiments is limited to the dimensions shown.

[0102] Based on the Fig. 4b, 4c It can be seen that the chip guide section 7 can form an axial extension of the second wall 3.2, which, for example, as a web-like or web-shaped element, extends in the axial direction beyond the counter-hole 10 in the direction of an imaginary conical tip of the second pin channel section 4.2. In particular, the chip guide section 7 can extend as a corresponding axial extension by at least 0.5 mm, more particularly by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 mm in the axial direction beyond the counter-hole 10 in the direction of an imaginary conical tip of the second pin channel section 4.2.

[0103] Individual, multiple or all features described in connection with one embodiment may be combined with individual, multiple or all features described in connection with at least one other embodiment.

Claims

1. A sharpening device (1) for sharpening a pencil (2), comprising: a base body (3) with at least one pencil channel (4) defined by one or more walls (3.1 - 3.n) and having a pencil channel axis (A) for inserting a pencil (2) to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device (1), wherein the pencil channel (4) has a first pencil channel section (4.1) formed by a first wall (3.1) having a cylindrical basic shape and a second pencil channel section (4.2) communicating with the first pencil channel and formed by a second wall (3.2) having a conical basic shape; at least one sharpening element (5) associated with the at least one pencil channel (4) and having a blade-like or -shaped cutting edge (5.1), wherein the at least one sharpening element (5) is arranged on a wall (3.3) of the base body (3) defining a sharpening element plane (E), characterized in thatthe second pin channel section (4.2) has a chip guide section (7) extending in the direction, in particular in the longitudinal direction, of the pin channel axis (A), wherein the chip guide section (7) defines a gap (8) with the cutting edge (5.1) of the at least one pointed element (5), via which material removed, in particular in chip form or like a chip, from the pin channel (4) during a pointed process of a pin (2) which is inserted into the pin channel (4) and is covered with a casing material, can be removed, wherein the gap (8) has a width (b) of less than or equal to 0.75 mm, in particular less than or equal to 0.5 mm, at least in sections.

2. Sharpening device according to claim 1, wherein the conical basic shape of the second wall (3.2) is defined by a base circle, wherein the base circle has a radius greater than or equal to 2 mm, in particular a radius in a range between 2 mm and 9 mm, further in particular a radius in a range between 2 mm and 7 mm, further in particular a radius in a range between 2 mm and 5 mm.

3. Sharpening device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the conical basic shape of the second wall (3.2) is defined by a base circle, wherein the second wall (3.2) viewed in cross-section defines at least one cross-sectional circle arranged parallel to the base circle, which has a radius greater than or equal to 1.5 mm, in particular a radius in a range between 1.5 mm and 4 mm, further in particular a radius in a range between 1.5 mm and 3 mm, further in particular a radius between 1.5 mm and 2 mm, wherein the gap (8) in the region of the at least one cross-sectional circle has a width (b) less than or equal to 0.75 mm, in particular less than or equal to 0.5 mm.

4. Sharpening device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chip guide section (7) lies at least in sections on a radius (R1) related to the pin channel axis (A), which radius (R1) is greater than the radius (R2) related to the pin channel axis (A) on which the cutting edge (5.1) of the at least one sharpening element (5) lies.

5. Sharpening device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chip guide section (7) extends at least partially above the sharpening element plane (E) when viewed in cross section.

6. Sharpening device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the gap (8) has at least in sections a width (b) in a range between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm.

7. Sharpening device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chip guide section (7) is rigidly and / or immovably connected to the base body (3).

8. Sharpening device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the free end of the chip guide section (7) opposite the cutting edge (5.1) of the at least one sharpening element (5) is formed with an inclined surface (7.1) or with a curved surface.

9. Sharpening device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chip guide section (7) has at least in sections a section (7.2) projecting radially into the second pin channel section (4.2).

10. Sharpening device according to claim 9, wherein the section (7.2) projecting into the pin channel (4) is configured to realize an arrangement of a pin section introduced into the pin channel (4) relative to the cutting edge (5.1) of the at least one sharpening element (5), which arrangement is selected such that a constant chip formation can be realized over a sharpening process of a pin (2) to be sharpened by means of the sharpening device (1) and thus independently of the number of rotations of the pin (2) relative to the at least one sharpening element (5).

11. Sharpening device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the section (7.2) projecting into the pin channel (4) is designed to reduce the cutting depth of the at least one sharpening element (5) into a respective affected pin section by a certain amount or to limit it to a certain amount.

12. Sharpening device according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the section (7.2) projecting into the pin channel (4) is arranged and / or dimensioned such that it acts on a pin section emerging from a counter-hole in the second wall of a pin (2) inserted into the second pin channel (4).

13. Sharpening device according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the section (7.2) projecting into the pin channel (4) is arranged in the longitudinal direction with respect to a longitudinal extent of the cutting edge (5.1) of the at least one sharpening element (5) in the region of the center of the cutting edge (5.1) of the at least one sharpening element (5).

14. Sharpening device according to one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the section (7.2) projecting into the pin channel (4) projects into the pin channel (4) by at least 0.1 mm.

15. Sharpening device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chip guide section (7) is formed integrally with the base body (3).

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