Blades

Abstract

This technology provides a way to easily determine the authenticity of a bladed weapon while suppressing the deterioration of the identification function of the identification markings attached to the weapon. [Solution] The blade 10 has a blade body portion 12 on its surface which includes a cutting edge region 13e that constitutes a cutting edge and a non-cutting edge region 13n adjacent to the cutting edge region that does not constitute a cutting edge, and a configuration in which identification marks 35 for the blade are arranged at multiple positions and an arrangement pattern 30 formed on the surface of the blade body portion, wherein at least one identification mark is displayed as a whole in the non-cutting edge region, and at least one identification mark is displayed in a state in which it is divided at the edge portion 25 of the blade body portion, or in a state in which the portion extending from the non-cutting edge region into the cutting edge region disappears towards the cutting edge 21 side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a cutting tool.

Background Art

[0002] In cutting tools such as kitchen knives, from the viewpoints of quality assurance and rarity, on the surface of the blade body part, there may be displayed an engraving, a trademark, a logo, a company name, etc. as an identification mark indicating the manufacturer, the source of the distribution route, etc. Also, for the performance display and management of the cutting tool, there may be displayed an identification mark indicating its type and product number. In addition, when the cutting tool is used as a gift or a souvenir, there may be displayed an identification mark indicating its origin, background, purpose, event name, date, the name of the person to whom it is transferred, etc. (so-called naming). Such an identification mark is for making the cutting tool identifiable and visually shows the information associated with the cutting tool.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a design system for engraving a name based on audio data on the surface of the blade body part of a kitchen knife. As also described in Patent Document 1, in a cutting tool, an identification mark such as an engraving is generally formed at a local part on the surface of the blade body part close to the edge away from the cutting edge. The reasons for this are that this part is a prominent place that comes into view even during work in the blade body part which is the main body part of the cutting tool, and it is a place where it is easy to ensure readability by displaying the whole in a continuous manner so that the identification mark can be identified. Also, it can be mentioned that the identification property of the identification mark can be suppressed from decreasing due to wear and damage during the use of the cutting tool or during maintenance such as grinding of the cutting edge.

[0004] Furthermore, in the case of knives and other bladed tools, various patterns and designs may be displayed on the surface of the blade to enhance their decorative appeal. For example, Patent Document 2 below discloses a knife with patterns of butterflies, flowers, etc., covering the entire surface of the blade. Also, Patent Document 3 below discloses a knife with patterns formed by embossing covering the entire surface of the blade. The patterns and designs of the bladed tools disclosed in Patent Documents 2 and 3 are applied to the entire blade and become integrated with the blade. Therefore, it is possible that the entire blade could function as a single identification mark. However, since such patterns and designs applied to the entire blade are merely for enhancing the design of the blade, they can be said to have a different technical significance from the identification marks mentioned above. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-079363 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-193974 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 02-265586 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] Conventionally, when identification marks are placed on localized areas of the blade surface, these marks can be scraped off during distribution or storage, or worn down during use, making it difficult to determine the authenticity of the blade. Furthermore, if part of the identification mark is missing or its continuity and completeness are lost, its identification function may be impaired. Thus, there was still room for improvement in preventing the deterioration of the identification function of bladed tools.

[0007] The objective of this invention is to provide a technology that facilitates the determination of the authenticity of a blade while suppressing a decrease in the identification function imparted to the blade. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] This invention can be realized, for example, in the following forms.

[0009] [First Embodiment] The first embodiment is provided as a cutting tool. The cutting tool of the first embodiment has a cutting edge and comprises a blade body portion having a cutting edge region constituting the cutting edge and a non-cutting edge region adjacent to the cutting edge region that does not constitute the cutting edge, and an arrangement pattern formed on the surface of the blade body portion having an arrangement of identification marks of the cutting tool at multiple positions, wherein the arrangement pattern is such that at least one of the identification marks is displayed as a whole in the non-cutting edge region, and at least one of the identification marks is displayed in a state where it is divided at the edge of the blade body portion, or in a state where the portion extending from the non-cutting edge region into the cutting edge region disappears towards the cutting edge. In the first form of the blade, multiple identification marks are displayed on the blade, thereby enhancing the identifiableness of the marks on the blade and preventing them from disappearing from the blade due to wear or removal. Furthermore, in the first form of the blade, at least one identification mark is displayed in the non-cutting area in a state where the entire mark is recognizable, thus more reliably suppressing the decrease in readability and visibility of the identification mark on the blade. On the other hand, at least one identification mark is displayed on the blade either in a state where it is fragmented at the edge of the blade, or in a state where the portion extending into the cutting area disappears towards the cutting edge due to the formation of the cutting edge. As a result, the state in which a part of the identification mark is missing gives the blade a new unique characteristic, thereby further enhancing the identifiableness of the blade. Thus, it is possible to easily determine the authenticity of the blade.

[0010] [Second Embodiment] In the blade described in the first embodiment above, the identification mark is information that enables identification and may include letters, figures, symbols, or patterns as constituent elements. In the second form of a bladed weapon, the identification mark consists of letters, figures, symbols, or patterns, allowing for a clearer display of information for identifying the blade. Therefore, the identifiability of the blade by the identification mark can be further enhanced, making it easier to determine the authenticity of the blade.

[0011] [Third Embodiment] In the blade described in the first or second embodiment above, the identification mark is information that enables identification and may include a name, abbreviation, initials, trademark, logo, word, phrase, sentence, number sequence, code, or a combination thereof. According to the third form of bladed weapon, the identification mark is composed of information that can exert greater identification power, thus improving the identifiability of the bladed weapon based on the identification mark. Therefore, determining the authenticity of a bladed weapon becomes even easier.

[0012] [Fourth Embodiment] In the cutting tool described in any of the first, second, or third embodiments above, the blade body is made of laminated steel formed by stacking multiple types of steel in the thickness direction, the arrangement pattern is formed by the uneven structure on the surface of the blade body, at least one of the identification marks is displayed in such a state that the portion extending from the non-cutting edge region to the cutting edge region disappears towards the cutting edge, and the cutting edge may have a wave pattern or stripe pattern caused by the layer boundary of the laminated steel, with distortion corresponding to the uneven structure. In the fourth form of the blade, (i) a portion of the identification mark is displayed on the cutting edge surface in a manner that disappears towards the cutting edge, and (ii) a wave pattern or stripe pattern caused by the layer boundaries of the laminated steel is formed in a manner that is distorted according to the uneven structure of the identification mark. Therefore, since the blade body is further given unique characteristic points, the identifiability of the blade body can be further enhanced, and the determination of the authenticity of the blade can be made even easier. Furthermore, the wave pattern or stripe pattern unique to laminated steel formed on the cutting edge can enhance the design of the blade.

[0013] [Fifth Embodiment] In the blade according to any of the first, second, third, or fourth embodiments described above, the arrangement pattern may be formed to cover at least the edge of the blade body opposite to the cutting edge. According to the fifth form of the blade, it is easy to form more identification marks along the edge of the blade body opposite the cutting edge, where the marks are displayed in a separated state at the edge of the blade body. Therefore, it is easy to further increase the number of characteristic points on the blade body, thereby further improving the identifiability of the blade.

[0014] [Sixth Embodiment] In the cutting tool described in any of the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth embodiments, the arrangement pattern may be formed in the blade portion so as to cover at least the boundary between the cutting edge region and the non-cutting edge region. According to the sixth form of the blade, regarding the arrangement pattern, it is easy to form more identification marks along the boundary between the cutting edge region and the non-cutting edge region, which are displayed in a manner that gradually disappears toward the cutting edge. Therefore, it is easy to further increase the number of characteristic points on the blade body, and the identifiability of the blade can be further enhanced.

[0015] [Seventh Embodiment] In the cutting tool described in any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth embodiments, the arrangement pattern may include the identification mark which is formed to cover at least the non-cutting area and is displayed in a state where it is divided at the edge, and the identification mark which is displayed in a state where the portion extending from the non-cutting area to the cutting area disappears towards the cutting edge. According to the seventh form of the blade, more identification marks can be placed across the entire non-cutting area of ​​the blade body, thus more reliably suppressing the decrease in blade identifiability due to wear, damage, or removal of the identification marks. In addition, multiple identification marks, some of which are missing, can be placed along the edge of the blade body and the boundary of the cutting edge, further increasing the number of characteristic points on the blade body and improving the identifiability of the blade.

[0016] [8th Embodiment] In the cutting tool according to any one of the 1st to 7th embodiments described above, a superimposed pattern in which one or a plurality of the arrangement patterns are superimposed may be formed on the blade body portion. According to the cutting tool of the 8th embodiment, a new design feature can be imparted to the appearance of the blade body portion by the superimposed pattern in which the arrangement patterns are superimposed, so that the discriminability and the designability can be easily enhanced.

[0017] The present invention can be realized in various forms. For example, the present invention can also be realized in the form of a cutting tool, a set of cutting tools including a plurality of cutting tools, a blade body portion on which an arrangement pattern is formed, a cutting tool substrate on which an arrangement pattern is formed, a mold for forming an arrangement pattern, an apparatus for forming an arrangement pattern on a cutting tool, and the like.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018] [Figure 1] Schematic side view showing the configuration of the cutting tool of the 1st embodiment. [Figure 2] Process flow diagram showing the manufacturing method of the cutting tool of the 1st embodiment. [Figure 3] First reference diagram schematically showing the content of each step of the manufacturing method. [Figure 4] Second reference diagram schematically showing the content of each step of the manufacturing method. [Figure 5] Reference diagram showing a configuration example of variations of the arrangement pattern. [Figure 6] Schematic side view showing the configuration of the cutting tool of the 2nd embodiment. [Figure 7] Schematic diagram for explaining the manufacturing method of the cutting tool of the 3rd embodiment. [Figure 8] Schematic diagram for explaining the manufacturing method of the cutting tool of the 4th embodiment. [Figure 9] Schematic functional block diagram showing an arrangement pattern generation program as a reference example.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] 1. First Embodiment: 1-1. The composition of the blade: Referring to Figure 1, the configuration of the blade 10 in the first embodiment will be described. The blade 10 in the first embodiment is, for example, a kitchen knife. The type of kitchen knife is not particularly limited. The blade 10 may be a Japanese kitchen knife, a Western kitchen knife, or any other type of kitchen knife.

[0020] The blade 10 comprises a blade body 12 and a gripping portion 15. The blade body 12 is the main part of the blade 10 and is the part that comes into contact with the object to be cut, such as food. The blade body 12 is made of, for example, a metal plate. In the first embodiment, it is made of a Damascus steel plate. Damascus steel is an example of laminated steel having a laminated structure in which multiple metal layers of different types of steel are stacked.

[0021] The gripping portion 15 is a rod-shaped part that functions as the handle of the blade 10. The gripping portion 15 is made of, for example, a wooden or resin material. The gripping portion 15 is connected to the blade body 12 via a connecting member 16 called a ferrule or guard. In other embodiments, the gripping portion 15 may be made of a rod-shaped part that is integrated with the blade body 12.

[0022] The blade body 12 has a cutting edge 20 on its lower end side. The cutting edge 20 is a part that is sharpened by, for example, grinding or forging, and corresponds to the cutting part that performs the cutting function in the blade 10.

[0023] In the first embodiment, the cutting edge 20 is formed by grinding. As described above, in the first embodiment, the blade body 12 is made of Damascus steel, which is a laminated steel, so a striped pattern is formed on the surface of the cutting edge 20 formed by grinding, due to the layer boundaries in the laminated structure of Damascus steel.

[0024] The cutting edge 20 may be formed as a so-called clam-shaped edge, composed of a gently curving surface. This can improve the cutting performance of the blade 10. Furthermore, in the blade 10 of the first embodiment, the striped pattern of the cutting edge 20 is formed with a variation according to the curvature of the clam-shaped edge, thereby enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

[0025] The linear edge at the lower end of the cutting edge 20 constitutes the cutting edge 21, which is the starting point for cutting. At the very bottom of the cutting edge 21, there is an even sharper part called a "secondary bevel," but its illustration and explanation are omitted. The tip of the blade body 12 is provided with a cutting edge 23 located at the tip of the cutting edge 20.

[0026] The edge portion 25, which is the upper end of the blade body portion 12 opposite the cutting edge 21, corresponds to the part called the "spine," "back," or "back" in a typical kitchen knife. The rear end of the blade body portion 12 is provided with an extension portion 26 that extends to the grip portion 15, and the rear end surface 27 of the cutting edge 20, which is also called the "heel" in a typical kitchen knife.

[0027] The front and back surfaces 12s of the blade body 12 have a cutting edge region 13e that constitutes the cutting edge 20, and a non-cutting edge region 13n adjacent to the cutting edge region 13e that does not constitute the cutting edge 20. In Figure 1, for convenience, the boundary between the cutting edge region 13e and the non-cutting edge region 13n is shown by a dashed line.

[0028] The cutting edge region 13e is composed of inclined surfaces that slope from the non-cutting edge region 13n toward the cutting edge 21. The non-cutting edge region 13n corresponds to the region also called the "flat" side in a typical kitchen knife, and in most cases is composed of a part that is thicker and has a larger area than the cutting edge region 13e.

[0029] An arrangement pattern 30 is formed on at least one surface 12s of the blade portion 12, in which multiple identification markers 35 are arranged at multiple positions. Here, "identification marker" refers to information that enables the identification of the object on which it is displayed, and visually represents information associated with that object.

[0030] Figure 1 shows an example of an identification mark 35 consisting of the alphabetical string "ABC". In Figure 1, "ABC" is shown as an example of the name of the manufacturer or source of distribution of the blade 10, an example of the product name of the blade 10, or an example of the brand name to which the blade 10 belongs, and can be replaced with any string of characters expressed in any font or design.

[0031] The identification mark 35 is not limited to a string of characters indicating a name or the like as described above. The identification mark 35 may include letters, figures, symbols, or patterns as constituent elements. The letters, figures, symbols, or patterns here are not limited to those that can exhibit distinctiveness.

[0032] Characters may include, for example, the alphabet or numbers, Japanese hiragana, katakana, or kanji, or characters from other countries. Shapes may include, for example, geometric shapes such as triangles or polygons, mathematical shapes such as fractals, pictures or illustrations, or combinations of straight lines, curves, and colors, either regularly or irregularly. Symbols may include, for example, punctuation marks, parentheses, colons, semicolons, and question marks, or mathematical symbols used in mathematical formulas. They may also include arrows, checkmarks, musical notes, so-called emojis, or anything that evokes some meaning, definition, or emotion.

[0033] The pattern can be any pattern that is distinctive, but for use as an identification mark 35, it is preferable that the outer edge is recognizable so that it can be distinctive on its own and has a form that can be visually distinguished as individual elements. For example, this refers to a pattern whose outer contour is clearly recognizable, rather than a simple mesh pattern, stripe pattern, hammered pattern, or a pattern with a continuous form. The identification mark 35 may be an arbitrary combination of the aforementioned letters, figures, symbols, or patterns.

[0034] The identification mark 35 may be a name that indicates a company, person, product, brand, etc., as shown in Figure 1 as "ABC". The identification mark 35 may also be an abbreviation, initials, trademark, logo, word, phrase, sentence, number sequence, code, or a combination thereof. An abbreviation may be a combination of multiple initials, such as initials, or may be expressed as an acronym or initialism. Furthermore, the identification mark 35 may consist of only one character, such as the initials of a name related to the blade 10.

[0035] The trademarks and logos constituting the identification mark 35 are acceptable as long as they have distinctiveness that identifies goods, services, or the person using them, regardless of their fame, notoriety, or registration status. The trademarks and logos may indicate the manufacturer or distribution channel of the blade 10, or, if the blade 10 is, for example, a gift or novelty item, they may indicate its origin or source.

[0036] The words, phrases, sentences, and number sequences that constitute the identification mark 35 may express meaning associated with the blade 10. The words, phrases, and sentences may, for example, express the origin or background of the blade 10, or they may be for personalization. If the blade 10 is given as a gift at an event, the name of the event, its purpose, the date, and the names of people or companies associated with the event may be indicated. The words, phrases, and sentences may express congratulatory messages or prayers embedded in the blade 10. The number sequences may, for example, be a serial number or other number uniquely assigned to the blade 10, or a date associated with the blade 10.

[0037] The code can be anything that visualizes or symbolizes meaningful information. For example, it could be a sequence of musical notes representing a melody or sound, or a graphic or design showing a barcode, QR code (registered trademark), signal waveform, etc. The code itself may not form meaning, but it may be a cipher that forms meaning when combined with other keys.

[0038] Figure 1 illustrates an example of the arrangement pattern 30, in which identification markers 35 are arranged periodically and regularly at multiple positions. In this example, the arrangement pattern 30 is formed to cover the non-cutting area 13n and extends from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the blade body 12. The arrangement pattern 30 is also formed to cover the edge 25 of the upper end of the blade body 12 and to cover the boundary between the cutting area 13e and the non-cutting area 13n.

[0039] The arrangement configuration of the multiple identification markers 35 in the arrangement pattern 30 is not limited to the configuration exemplified in Figure 1. Similarly, the formation area of ​​the arrangement pattern 30 on the blade portion 12 is not limited to the configuration exemplified in Figure 1. The method for creating the arrangement pattern 30 and the method for determining the formation area of ​​the arrangement pattern 30 will be explained later in the section on manufacturing methods. Examples of variations in the arrangement pattern 30 will also be explained after the section on manufacturing methods.

[0040] The following describes the display state of the identification mark 35 in the arrangement pattern 30 formed on the blade portion 12.

[0041] The arrangement pattern 30 is configured so that multiple identification marks 35 are displayed on the surface of the blade portion 12. As a result, the identification marks 35 overlap on the blade portion 12, making it easier for observers of the blade 10 to recognize the identification marks 35 and improving the identifiableness of the blade 10. In addition, it is possible to prevent the identification marks 35 from completely disappearing from the blade portion 12 due to wear caused by continued use or maintenance of the blade 10, intentional removal by a third party, or accidental damage.

[0042] In arrangement pattern 30, at least one identification mark 35 is displayed as a whole in the non-cutting area 13n of the blade portion 12. Preferably, the identification mark 35 is displayed as a whole in a continuous state in the non-cutting area 13n so that it can exert its distinctiveness. The identification mark 35 may also be displayed in a manner in which it is separated into parts and displayed at multiple locations within the non-cutting area 13n, and the whole is recognized by combining these parts.

[0043] Because the identification mark 35 is displayed as a whole in the non-cutting area 13n, even if the arrangement pattern 30 includes an identification mark 35 that is only partially displayed from the time of manufacture as described below, an observer of the blade 10 can recognize the identification mark 35. Furthermore, since the non-cutting area 13n of the blade body 12 is far from the cutting edge 20, the identification mark 35 displayed as a whole is less likely to disappear due to wear from continued use or maintenance. Therefore, the decline in readability and visibility of the identification mark 35 on the blade 10 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0044] The arrangement pattern 30 is formed such that at least one identification mark 35 is displayed only partially, in a fragmented state, at the edge of the blade portion 12. In the first embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 1, the arrangement pattern 30 includes an identification mark 35 that is displayed with the portion extending from the upper edge 25 of the blade portion 12 missing.

[0045] The presence of the partially missing identification mark 35 imparts a new, unique characteristic to the blade portion 12. For example, the location and number of the partially missing identification marks 35, and the state of the missing marks 35, create new, visually recognizable features of the blade portion 12. This enhances the identifiability of the blade portion 12, thereby facilitating the determination of the authenticity of the blade 10.

[0046] The arrangement pattern 30 is preferably formed to cover the upper edge 25 of the blade portion 12, as shown in Figure 1. This ensures that an area where the partially divided identification mark 35 can be displayed extends from the tip to the rear of the blade portion 12. Therefore, it is easy to configure the arrangement pattern 30 so that a larger number of partially divided identification mark 35 are arranged along the edge 25 of the blade portion 12. If the number of partially divided identification mark 35 displayed on the edge 25 of the blade portion 12 increases, the identifiability of the blade portion 12 can be further enhanced, and the authenticity of the blade 10 can be further determined.

[0047] In the blade body portion 12, the arrangement pattern 30 is further formed such that at least one identification mark 35 is partially displayed, with the portion extending from the non-cutting edge region 13n to the cutting edge 20 disappearing towards the cutting edge. In Figure 1, for convenience, the portion on the cutting edge 20 where the identification mark 35 gradually disappears is schematically shown with a dashed line. This partial disappearance of the identification mark 35 occurs during the manufacturing process when the cutting edge 20 is formed, as will be described later.

[0048] The presence of an identification mark 35 that is partially missing due to its disappearance at the cutting edge 20, similar to the identification mark 35 that is missing due to its separation at the edge 25 of the blade body 12 as described above, gives the blade body 12 a new, unique characteristic. For example, the location, number, and extent of the missing identification mark 35 at the cutting edge 20 create new, visually recognizable characteristics of the blade body 12. This enhances the identifiability of the blade body 12, making it easier to determine the authenticity of the blade 10.

[0049] In the first embodiment, the arrangement pattern 30 is formed by press working on the blade body 12, as will be described later, and is composed of the uneven surface structure of the blade body 12. Furthermore, as described above, a striped pattern is formed on the surface of the cutting edge 20 of the blade body 12 in the first embodiment, due to the layer boundaries of the Damascus steel laminated structure. Since this striped pattern is affected by the deformation of the blade body 12 in the thickness direction due to press working, the area where the identification mark 35 is displayed is formed with distortion corresponding to the uneven structure representing the identification mark 35.

[0050] Therefore, in the blade portion 12 of the first embodiment, the striped pattern around the identification mark 35 on the cutting edge 20 develops characteristics corresponding to the identification mark 35, and the blade portion 12 is given further unique characteristics. As a result, the striped pattern of the cutting edge 20 can be given distinctiveness, thereby further enhancing the identifiability of the blade portion 12 and making it easier to determine the authenticity of the blade 10. In addition, the striped pattern of the cutting edge 20 is formed under the influence of the identification mark 35 of the arrangement pattern 30, which can give the blade portion 12 a new design aesthetic.

[0051] Furthermore, the cutting edge region 13e may have an identification mark 35 that does not extend into the non-cutting edge region 13n and exists only within the cutting edge region 13e. The identification mark 35 may be displayed with a lighter shadow compared to the identification mark 35 in the non-cutting edge region 13n due to the formation of the cutting edge 20.

[0052] Preferably, the arrangement pattern 30 is formed so as shown in Figure 1 that it covers the boundary between the cutting edge region 13e and the non-cutting edge region 13n on the blade body 12. This ensures that an area where the identification mark 35, which is partially and gradually disappears on the cutting edge 20, can be displayed is secured from the tip side to the rear side of the blade body 12. Therefore, it is easy to form an arrangement pattern 30 in which more of the identification mark 35, which is partially and gradually disappears on the cutting edge 20, is displayed along the boundary between the cutting edge region 13e and the non-cutting edge region 13n. If multiple identification marks 35, which are partially and gradually disappearing on the cutting edge 20, are arranged, the identifiability of the blade body 12 can be further enhanced. Thus, the authenticity of the blade 10 can be further determined.

[0053] In the first embodiment, the blade portion 12 has an arrangement pattern 30 that includes both an identification mark 35 that is partially divided and an identification mark 35 that is partially missing on the cutting edge 20. As a result, the blade portion 12 is given more features, and its identifiability is significantly improved. In other embodiments, the blade portion 12 may have a configuration in which either the identification mark 35 that is partially divided or the identification mark 35 that is partially missing on the cutting edge 20 is omitted. Even with such a configuration, the blade portion 12 is given features by the partially missing identification mark 35, and thus the effect of improved identifiability described above can be achieved.

[0054] Furthermore, in the blade portion 12 of the first embodiment, the arrangement pattern 30 is formed to cover the non-cutting area 13n. With this configuration, the identification mark 35 displayed as a whole can be displayed more extensively across the entire non-cutting area 13n. Therefore, the deterioration of the identifiability of the blade 10 due to wear, damage, or removal of the identification mark 35 can be suppressed more reliably.

[0055] As described above, according to the first embodiment of the blade 10, the blade body 12 has an arrangement pattern 30 in which multiple identification marks 35 are displayed, thereby increasing its identifiableness and making it easy and accurate to determine whether it is genuine or counterfeit.

[0056] 1-2. Method for manufacturing blades: The manufacturing method of the cutting tool 10 will be explained with reference to Figures 2, 3, and 4. Figure 2 shows a process flow chart illustrating the steps of the manufacturing method of the cutting tool 10. Figure 3 is a reference diagram of the process from steps S10 to S20. Figure 4 is a reference diagram of the process from steps S30 to S60.

[0057] In step S10, the identification mark 35 to be displayed on the blade 10 is determined. In the upper part of Figure 3, the string "ABC" is shown as an example of the identification mark 35 determined in step S10, matching the example used in Figure 1. The identification mark 35 can be any information that makes the blade 10 identifiable, and may be any of the above.

[0058] In the first embodiment, a custom-made blade 10 is manufactured to display an identification mark 35 specified by a customer who has requested the manufacture of the blade 10. Therefore, in step S10, the identification mark 35 is determined to be, for example, one specified by the customer or one agreed upon between the manufacturer of the blade 10 and the customer. In other embodiments, the manufacturer of the blade 10 may decide to use an identification mark 35 that indicates itself as the source of the blade 10, such as its own mark, name, or trademark, or an identification mark 35 that indicates its own brand, in the arrangement pattern 30.

[0059] In step S20, an arrangement pattern 30 is created using the identification mark 35 determined in step S10. The arrangement pattern 30 is created based on the shape of the cutting tool base material 18 prepared in step S30. The creation of the arrangement pattern 30 in step S20 can be done, for example, using CAD software on a computer.

[0060] The lower part of Figure 3 schematically shows an example of the manufacturing process in step S20 for the arrangement pattern 30 of the cutting tools 10 described in Figure 1. In the lower part of Figure 3, the contour line showing the contour shape BF of the surface of the cutting tool base material 18 is illustrated with a dashed line. In addition, the boundary between the cutting edge region 13e and the non-cutting edge region 13n of the cutting tool base material 18 is illustrated with a dashed line.

[0061] The arrangement pattern 30 may be created, for example, by arranging multiple identification markers 35 on the contour shape BF of the blade base material 18. In this step, for example, the position, size, angle, or spacing of the identification markers 35 to be displayed in the area enclosed by the contour line of the blade base material 18 is determined. Creating the arrangement pattern 30 based on the contour shape BF of the blade base material 18 is preferable because it allows for precise control of the display state of the identification markers 35 on the blade body 12.

[0062] In step S20, an arrangement pattern 30 is created such that at least one identification mark 35 is displayed as a whole in the non-cutting area 13n of the cutting tool base material 18. As described above, it is preferable that the identification mark 35 displayed as a whole is displayed in a continuous manner in the non-cutting area 13n, but it may also be displayed in a separated manner at multiple locations within the non-cutting area 13n.

[0063] In step S20, an arrangement pattern 30 is created such that at least one identification mark 35 is displayed either separated at the edge 25 of the blade base material 18, or extending from the non-cutting area 13n into the cutting area 13e. Hereinafter, the identification mark 35 separated at the edge 25 of the blade base material 18 will also be called the "separated mark 35p". The identification mark 35 extending from the non-cutting area 13n into the cutting area 13e will also be called the "cutting mark 35e".

[0064] For the division mark 35p, for example, its position, size, and angle are determined such that it extends in part from the contour line that constitutes the edge 25 in the contour shape BF. By determining the position, size, and angle of the division mark 35p based on the position of the edge 25 of the blade material 18 in the contour shape BF, the display state of the division mark 35p on the edge 25 of the blade body 12 can be controlled with greater precision.

[0065] Furthermore, the position, size, and angle of the cutting edge marker 35e are determined, for example, relative to the boundary between the cutting edge region 13e and the non-cutting edge region 13n. By determining the position, size, and angle of the cutting edge marker 35e based on the boundary position in the contour shape BF, the display state of the cutting edge marker 35e, which is displayed with a portion of it disappearing due to the cutting edge 20 when the blade body 12 is formed, can be controlled with greater precision.

[0066] The arrangement pattern 30 is preferably formed to cover the upper edge 25 of the blade base material 18. This makes it easy to place more division markers 35p along the edge 25. As a result, the number of feature points of the blade body 12 can be increased when it is constructed, further enhancing the identifiability of the blade 10.

[0067] Furthermore, since the edge 25 is located on the opposite side from the cutting edge 20, the dividing marker 35p arranged along the edge 25 is less likely to wear down during use or maintenance of the blade 10. Therefore, the deterioration of the blade 10's identifiability due to aging can be suppressed.

[0068] The arrangement pattern 30 is preferably formed to cover the boundary between the cutting edge region 13e and the non-cutting edge region 13n on the blade base material 18. In this way, it is easy to arrange more cutting edge markers 35e along the boundary on the surface of the blade portion 12. This increases the number of feature points in the area that is easily visible to the user when using the blade 10, and further enhances the identifiability of the blade 10.

[0069] The cutting edge region 13e is generally prone to wear during use and maintenance of the cutting tool 10. Therefore, if multiple cutting edge markers 35e are formed along the boundary between the cutting edge region 13e and the non-cutting edge region 13n, it is possible to prevent the cutting edge markers 35e from completely disappearing from that boundary. Thus, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the identifiability of the cutting tool 10 due to aging.

[0070] In the first embodiment, the arrangement pattern 30 is formed to cover both the edge 25 of the blade base material 18 and the boundary between the cutting edge region 13e and the non-cutting edge region 13n. In this way, both of the above-mentioned effects can be obtained. Therefore, the blade 10 can be given extremely high identifiability. Furthermore, the decrease in the identifiability of the blade 10 due to aging can be suppressed to an extremely high degree.

[0071] In the first embodiment, the arrangement pattern 30 is configured such that a plurality of identification markers 35 are arranged over the entire surface of the non-cutting area 13n of the blade body 12. The arrangement pattern 30 may also be created to cover the entire contour shape BF of the blade base material 18, as shown in the lower part of Figure 3. In this configuration of the arrangement pattern 30, identification markers 35 that straddle the contour lines indicating the contour shape BF may be arranged over the entire circumference of the contour shape BF of the blade base material 18.

[0072] In other embodiments, instead of the contour shape BF of the blade base material 18, the arrangement pattern 30 may be created based on, for example, dimensional information representing the shape of the blade base material 18. In this case, the size, angle, and spacing of the identification marks 35 in the arrangement pattern 30 may be determined in accordance with the dimensions of the blade base material 18.

[0073] In other embodiments, the placement pattern 30 may be created without precisely determining the position of the identification marks 35 relative to the edge 25 or boundary of the cutting tool base material 18, such as the division mark 35p or the cutting edge mark 35e, which are displayed in a partially missing state. In this case, the formation positions of the division mark 35p and the cutting edge mark 35e may be adjusted during the formation process of the placement pattern 30 in step S40.

[0074] In step S20, after the arrangement pattern 30 is created, preparations are made for forming the arrangement pattern 30 on the cutting tool base material 18. In the first embodiment, a mold is made for forming the arrangement pattern 30 on the cutting tool base material 18 by press working. In other embodiments, for example, a mold may be prepared for forming the arrangement pattern 30 on the cutting tool base material 18 by etching. Alternatively, processing data representing the laser trajectory for laser engraving the arrangement pattern 30 on the cutting tool base material 18 may be prepared.

[0075] In step S30, the blade base material 18 is prepared. In this step, the blade base material 18 is cut out from a metal plate-shaped base material. In the first embodiment, the metal plate-shaped base material is made of the Damascus steel described above. The upper part of Figure 4 shows an example of a cut-out blade base material 18. The cut-out of the blade base material 18 may be performed, for example, by a laser cutting process or by a die-cutting process.

[0076] In step S40, the arrangement pattern 30 is formed on the prepared blade base material 18. The middle section of Figure 4 shows an example of a blade base material 18 with the arrangement pattern 30 formed on its surface.

[0077] As described above, in the first embodiment, the arrangement pattern 30 is formed on the surface 12s of the blade base material 18 by press working using the mold prepared in step S20. The arrangement pattern 30 is formed by the uneven surface structure of the blade base material 18. In other embodiments, the arrangement pattern 30 may be formed on the surface of the blade base material 18 by etching or laser processing as described above.

[0078] In step S40, the arrangement pattern 30 is positioned according to the shape of the blade base material 18 that was used as a reference in step S20. As a result, the arrangement pattern 30 is formed on the surface of the blade base material 18 such that at least one identification mark 35 is displayed as a whole in the non-cutting area 13n, as described in step S20.

[0079] In step S40, at least one division mark 35p or cutting edge mark 35e is formed on the surface 12s of the blade base material 18. In the first embodiment, both multiple division marks 35p and multiple cutting edge marks 35e are formed on the surface 12s of the blade base material 18.

[0080] Regarding the division mark 35p, when the arrangement pattern 30 is formed on the surface 12s of the blade base material 18 in step S40, it is already formed in a divided state at the edge 25 of the blade body 12. On the other hand, regarding the cutting edge mark 35e, at step S40, the entire mark is displayed in a continuous state on the surface 12s of the blade base material 18, and when the cutting edge 20 is formed in step S60, which will be described later, a part of it on the cutting edge 20 disappears.

[0081] In step S50, the blade base material 18 on which the arrangement pattern 30 is formed is subjected to heat treatment, such as quenching or tempering. Generally, quenching is performed to increase the strength of the blade base material 18, and tempering is performed to improve the cutting performance of the blade base material 18.

[0082] The reason for performing the heat treatment after the formation of the arrangement pattern 30 is that the hardness of the blade base material 18 before heat treatment is low, allowing for precise and easy formation of the arrangement pattern 30. Furthermore, performing the heat treatment after the formation of the arrangement pattern 30 improves the strength of the blade base material 18, thereby improving the strength of the arrangement pattern 30 and suppressing wear and damage to the arrangement pattern 30 in the finished blade 10.

[0083] In step S60, a cutting edge 20 is formed on the blade base material 18, and the blade body portion 12 is constructed. In the cutting edge 20 formation process, an inclined surface is formed that slopes toward the cutting edge 21 that constitutes the cutting edge 20, and the shape of the cutting edge 21 is refined.

[0084] In the first embodiment, the cutting edge 20 is formed, for example, by grinding the cutting edge region 13e using a grinding wheel. In the grinding process, for example, rough grinding is performed using an automatic grinding machine, followed by manual grinding by a craftsman using a water-grinding wheel. If the cutting edge 20 is a clam-shaped edge, the inclined surface constituting the cutting edge 20 is adjusted in this grinding process to become a curved surface.

[0085] When the inclined surface constituting the cutting edge 20 is formed, the height difference of the uneven structure representing the identification mark 35 formed on the cutting edge region 13e becomes smaller towards the cutting edge 21 side. In the case where the cutting edge 20 is formed by grinding, as in the first embodiment, the height difference of the uneven structure representing the identification mark 35 becomes smaller as the surface of the cutting edge region 13e is removed. As a result, the identification mark 35 displayed on the cutting edge region 13e gradually disappears towards the cutting edge 21 side.

[0086] In the first embodiment, as described above, the blade base material 18 is made of Damascus steel. Therefore, when the cutting edge 20 is formed by grinding, a striped pattern is formed on the surface of the cutting edge 20, as shown in the lower part of Figure 4, due to the layer boundaries of the laminated structure of the Damascus steel. This striped pattern is formed under conditions of distortion corresponding to the uneven structure of the identification mark 35 displayed in the cutting edge region 13e.

[0087] In step S70, finishing processes are carried out to complete the blade 10. As part of the finishing process, for example, polishing is performed to refine the finish of the blade body 12. This polishing process may include polishing, also known as back grinding, polishing to sharpen the tip 23, and polishing to make the sharpening marks even finer.

[0088] Furthermore, in step S70, the cutting edge 20 may be surface-treated. Examples of surface treatments for the cutting edge 20 include etching and shot blasting. These surface treatments allow for adjustment of the display state of the identification mark 35 within the cutting edge region 13e and the texture of the striped pattern, thereby improving the identifiability and design of the blade body 12.

[0089] In step S70, the gripping portion 15 is further connected to the extension portion 26 at the rear end of the blade portion 12. The connection of the gripping portion 15 to the extension portion 26 of the blade portion 12 constitutes the cutting tool 10 shown in Figure 1.

[0090] In step S80, the blade body 12 is recorded for the management of the completed cutting tool 10 and the blade body 12. In this recording process, an image of the arrangement pattern 30 of the blade body 12 is recorded and stored. The recording method may be to fix the digital data representing the image to a storage medium, or to display the image on paper or the like.

[0091] The captured image includes at least an image of the identification mark 35 (dividing mark 35p and cutting edge mark 35e) partially displayed on the edge 25 of the blade body 12 or the boundary of the cutting edge 20. This makes it easy to verify the authenticity of the blade body 12 displayed in the captured image, and facilitates the control of the authenticity of the blade body 12 and the cutting tool 10 equipped therewith.

[0092] In the first embodiment, the captured image may include an image of the stripe pattern of the cutting edge 20 along with the identification mark 35. This makes it easier to determine whether the blade portion 12 displayed in the captured image is genuine and improves the accuracy of the determination.

[0093] The digital data of the captured images may be stored and managed in a database built within a computer system for managing the blade 10 or blade body 12. In this database, the digital data of the captured images is stored in association with information related to the identification information indicated by the identification mark 35, as well as unique manufacturing information of the blade 10 or blade body 12, such as the serial number, manufacturing date, and manufacturing plant. Using this database, management to ensure the authenticity of the blade 10 or blade body 12 can be performed efficiently and with high accuracy.

[0094] As described above, according to the manufacturing method of the first embodiment, by having an arrangement pattern 30 on which multiple identification marks 35 are displayed, the blade body 12 and the blade 10 can be manufactured efficiently and easily, with enhanced identifiability and easy authenticity determination. Furthermore, the management of the blade body 12 and the blade 10 after manufacturing can be carried out efficiently and easily.

[0095] 1-3. Variations of arrangement patterns: Referring to Figure 5, examples of configurations for variations of the arrangement pattern 30 will be explained. Figures 5(a) to (d) illustrate various arrangement patterns 30a to 30d formed on the surface 12s of the blade base material 18.

[0096] In the arrangement pattern 30a of Figure 5(a), a trademark consisting of a logo mark composed of graphic elements is displayed as the identification mark 35. The arrangement pattern 30a constitutes a pattern in which the trademark is displayed repeatedly at regular intervals. In this way, the arrangement of multiple logo marks enhances both the distinctiveness and design of the blade 10.

[0097] In the arrangement pattern 30b of Figure 5(b), the identification mark 35 displays a trademark in which a logo mark composed of graphic elements and a string of characters are combined in a predetermined arrangement. With this configuration, the display function of identification information by the blade portion 12 is further enhanced by including the string of characters. Also, similar to the arrangement pattern 30a of Figure 5(a), the identifiability and design of the blade 10 can be enhanced.

[0098] In the arrangement pattern 30c of Figure 5(c), the identification mark 35 consists of a single letter. Figure 5(c) illustrates the case where the identification mark 35 consists of the single letter "A". In this example, the single letter "A" functions, for example, as a trademark for the cutting tool 10. Note that in the example of Figure 5(c), the identification mark 35 displayed as a whole in the non-cutting area 13n is composed of multiple separate parts.

[0099] The arrangement pattern 30c in Figure 5(c) includes an element in which a single character constituting the identification mark 35 is displayed periodically at predetermined intervals. It also includes an element in which the character is displayed periodically in a reversed state. Thus, a configuration including multiple identification marks 35 displayed at different angles can enhance the identifiability and design of the cutting tool 10, even when the identification mark 35 consists of a single character.

[0100] The arrangement pattern 30d in Figure 5(d) consists of a logo mark as the first identification mark 35 and a string of characters as the second identification mark 35. In the example in Figure 5(b), the logo mark and the string of characters were integrated into one identification mark 35, but in the example in Figure 5(d), the logo mark and the string of characters separately constitute two identification marks 35.

[0101] As shown in the example in Figure 5(d), in the arrangement pattern 30, multiple types of identification marks 35 may be displayed at multiple positions. Also, in the example in Figure 5(d), the positions and sizes of the multiple identification marks 35 are arranged randomly. Even with such a configuration, the identifiability and design of the cutting tool 10 can be enhanced.

[0102] As shown in Figures 1 and 5, multiple identification markers 35 can be freely laid out and displayed in the arrangement pattern 30. The multiple identification markers 35 may be arbitrarily configured, taking into consideration the balance between the readability and visibility of the identification information they represent and the aesthetic design when the blade body 12 and the cutting tool 10 are viewed as a whole.

[0103] 1-4. Summary of the First Embodiment: As described above, the blade 10 and the manufacturing method of the blade 10 according to the first embodiment allow for distinctive display of the multiple identification marks 35, thereby enhancing the identifiability of the blade body 12 and the blade 10 equipped therewith. Therefore, it is possible to easily determine the authenticity of the blade body 12 and the blade 10 equipped therewith. Furthermore, the configuration of the arrangement pattern 30 can also provide new design features to the blade body 12 and the blade 10 equipped therewith.

[0104] 2. Second Embodiment: Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the blade 10A of the second embodiment. The blade 10A of the second embodiment is the same as the blade 10 of the first embodiment, except that the blade base material 18 constituting the blade body 12A is made of a single layer of metal plate such as stainless steel, rather than laminated steel. In the blade 10A, the cutting edge 20 does not have a striped pattern that would result from the laminated structure of laminated steel. Even with this configuration, the blade 10A is given distinctiveness and design appeal by forming the arrangement pattern 30.

[0105] The method for manufacturing the blade 10A in the second embodiment is the same as that described in the first embodiment, except that it differs in the points described below. In the second embodiment, the arrangement pattern 30 is formed by press working on the blade base material 18, as in the first embodiment. In other embodiments, the arrangement pattern 30 may be formed by etching, for example, instead of press working. In the second embodiment, the cutting edge 20 is formed by grinding, as in the first embodiment. In other embodiments, the cutting edge 20 may be formed by other processing methods, for example, by forging.

[0106] As described above, according to the blade 10A and its manufacturing method of the second embodiment, even if the blade base material 18 constituting the blade body 12A is not made of laminated steel, the arrangement pattern 30 can provide distinctiveness and design to the blade body 12A and the blade 10A equipped therewith. In addition, according to the blade 10A and its manufacturing method of the second embodiment, various effects and advantages similar to those of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0107] 3. Third Embodiment: Figure 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of a blade according to the third embodiment. Figure 7 shows a blade base material 18 with different arrangement patterns 30B, 32Ba, and 32Bb displayed on its surface.

[0108] In the third embodiment of the cutting tool and its manufacturing method, the superposition patterns 32Ba and 32Bb described below are formed on the cutting tool base material 18 by a processing method different from that of the first embodiment. The two superposition patterns 32Ba and 32Bb shown in Figure 7 are examples of variations that can be obtained by changing the processing conditions in the processing method. In the third embodiment, unless otherwise specified, other aspects are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

[0109] In the third embodiment, in step S40 shown in Figure 2, as the first processing step, the cutting tool base material 18 prepared in step S30 is pressed using a die representing the arrangement pattern 30B created in step S20. The arrangement pattern 30B may be created using the same configuration and method as described in the first embodiment.

[0110] In the second processing step of step S40, the position of the cutting tool base material 18 relative to the die for the arrangement pattern 30B is changed from the position in the first processing step, and the arrangement pattern 30B is pressed onto the cutting tool base material 18 with the same press pressure as in the first processing step using the die. As a result, an overlapping pattern 32Ba is formed on the cutting tool base material 18, in which the two arrangement patterns 30B are displayed in offset positions from each other. In addition, in step S40, a step may be added after the second processing step in which the position of the cutting tool base material 18 relative to the die is shifted from the position in the previous step and pressed.

[0111] In the press working process from the second processing step onward, the press working conditions of the die may be changed from those of the previous process. For example, the press pressure in the second processing step may be smaller or larger than that in the first processing step. If the press pressure is reduced, the height difference of the uneven structure representing the arrangement pattern 30B will be reduced, and the image of the arrangement pattern 30B can be formed thinly. Conversely, if the press pressure is increased, the height difference of the uneven structure representing the arrangement pattern 30B will be increased, and the image of the arrangement pattern 30B can be formed thicker.

[0112] Figure 7 shows an example of an overlapping pattern 32Bb formed when the press pressure in the second processing step is reduced compared to that in the first processing step. In the overlapping pattern 32Bb of Figure 7, the arrangement pattern 30B formed in the second processing step is shown with a dashed line, schematically representing the state in which the image of the arrangement pattern 30B is formed thinly.

[0113] The number of press operations in step S40 (the number of times the arrangement pattern 30B is repeated), the amount of displacement of the die relative to the cutting tool base material 18 in the press operations from the second processing step onward, the direction and angle of displacement, and the conditions of the press operations can be set arbitrarily. For example, when creating the arrangement pattern 30B in step S20, these can be set in advance considering the visibility of the identification mark 35 when the cutting tool 10 is completed and the final design. Even if the visibility of the identification mark 35 is reduced by repeating the arrangement pattern 30B, the identifiability of the identification mark 35 can be said to be maintained as long as the identification mark 35 is readable by the naked eye or by optical means.

[0114] Thus, according to the manufacturing method of the third embodiment, various design variations can be efficiently generated from a single mold through a simple process of overlapping the arrangement patterns 30B. This makes it easy to add new design features to the appearance of the cutting tool, and easily enhances the distinctiveness and design appeal of the cutting tool. Furthermore, the configuration of the third embodiment can also achieve various effects similar to those described in the first and second embodiments. Note that the method for forming the overlapping pattern in the third embodiment is not limited to press working. The overlapping pattern may be formed, for example, by etching.

[0115] 4. Fourth Embodiment: Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of a blade according to the fourth embodiment. The upper and middle sections of Figure 8 show the first and second arrangement patterns 30Ca, 30Cb. The first and second arrangement patterns 30Ca, 30Cb are shown within the contour shape BF of the blade base material 18, indicated by the dashed line. The lower section of Figure 8 shows the blade base material 18 in which an overlapping pattern 32C is formed by superimposing the first and second arrangement patterns 30Ca, 30Cb.

[0116] In the fourth embodiment, the superimposed pattern 32C is formed in a different manner than that described in the third embodiment, as described below. The blade of the fourth embodiment and the method for manufacturing the same are the same as those described in the first embodiment, except for the points described below.

[0117] In the fourth embodiment, in step S20 of Figure 2, two types of arrangement patterns 30Ca and 30Cb are created, and molds for each arrangement pattern 30Ca and 30Cb are prepared. The configuration and manufacturing method of each arrangement pattern 30Ca and 30Cb are the same as those described in the first embodiment, and each has multiple identification markers 35 arranged on it.

[0118] In the example shown in Figure 8, the first arrangement pattern 30Ca has a configuration in which multiple single-letter alphabet characters are laid out as identification markers 35. The second arrangement pattern 30Cb also has a configuration in which multiple strings of alphabet characters are laid out as identification markers 35.

[0119] As shown above, in the example in Figure 8, the identification marks 35 included in the arrangement patterns 30Ca and 30Cb are different. The arrangement patterns that constitute the superimposed pattern 32C are not limited to this. The identification marks 35 included in the arrangement patterns 30Ca and 30Cb may be the same. However, in this case, it is preferable that the arrangement configuration, such as the position and size of the identification marks 35 in the arrangement patterns 30Ca and 30Cb, is different.

[0120] In the fourth embodiment, in step S40 of Figure 2, a superimposed pattern 32C is formed by sequentially performing press working using the molds for each arrangement pattern 30Ca and 30Cb prepared in step S20. In step S40, as described in the third embodiment, the press working conditions may be changed for each arrangement pattern formation process.

[0121] The superimposed pattern 32C of the fourth embodiment may be formed by superimposing three or more arrangement patterns created in step S20. Furthermore, in the superimposed pattern 32C, even if the visibility of the identification mark 35 is reduced due to the superposition of multiple arrangement patterns, the identifiability of the identification mark 35 is maintained as long as the identification mark 35 is readable by the naked eye or by optical means.

[0122] As described above, according to the manufacturing method of the fourth embodiment, by superimposing multiple arrangement patterns, new design features that cannot be expressed by a single arrangement pattern alone can be imparted to the cutting tool, and the distinctiveness and design of the cutting tool can be easily enhanced. Furthermore, the configuration of the fourth embodiment can also produce various effects similar to those described in each of the above embodiments. Note that the method for forming the superimposed patterns in the fourth embodiment is not limited to press working. The superimposed patterns may be formed, for example, by etching.

[0123] 5.Reference example: Figure 9 is a schematic functional block diagram showing the arrangement pattern generation program 50 that can be used in the blade manufacturing method shown in Figure 2. The example configuration can be a recording medium on which the arrangement pattern generation program 50 is recorded, a computer equipped with the arrangement pattern generation program 50, and a computer system equipped with the computer.

[0124] In step S20, the layout pattern generation program 50 is loaded into the computer's main memory (RAM) and executed by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU, or NPU to automatically generate candidate layout patterns 30. The layout pattern generation program 50 may also be executed on a server on a network such as the Internet.

[0125] The arrangement pattern generation program 50 includes, as functional units that cooperate with each other during execution, an identification mark acquisition unit 51, a shape information acquisition unit 52, an arrangement pattern generation unit 55, and an arrangement pattern output unit 57. The identification mark acquisition unit 51 has the function of acquiring a mark data ID representing the identification mark 35 determined in step S10 from an external source. The shape information acquisition unit 52 has the function of acquiring shape data FD representing the shape of the blade base material 18 prepared in step S30 from an external source.

[0126] The arrangement pattern generation unit 55 generates candidate arrangement patterns 30 based on the identification mark data ID acquired by the identification mark acquisition unit 51 and the shape data FD acquired by the shape information acquisition unit 52. The arrangement pattern generation unit 55 can automatically generate candidate arrangement patterns 30 based on the criteria described in the first embodiment. The arrangement pattern generation unit 55 may, for example, have a generation AI function and generate candidate arrangement patterns 30 in response to requests from the user input via the computer's operation unit PI.

[0127] The layout pattern generation unit 55 displays the candidate layout patterns 30 it has generated on the computer's display unit. When the layout pattern generation unit 55 receives an operation from the user to approve one of the candidates via the computer's operation unit PI, it determines that candidate to be the layout pattern 30.

[0128] The layout pattern generation unit 55 may have a function to accept user modifications to the layout pattern 30 candidates via the computer's operation unit PI. Alternatively, the layout pattern generation unit 55 may generate multiple layout pattern 30 candidates, display them on the computer's display unit, and accept user selection.

[0129] The arrangement pattern output unit 57 outputs data representing the arrangement pattern 30 determined by the arrangement pattern generation unit 55 to the outside. The arrangement pattern output unit 57 may, for example, output data for manufacturing a mold for the arrangement pattern 30, or it may output a drawing of the mold for the arrangement pattern 30 via a printer connected to a computer.

[0130] As described above, the arrangement pattern generation program 50 of this reference example can automatically and easily create an arrangement pattern 30 in which the position and absence of identification marks 35 are adjusted based on the shape of the blade base material 18. Therefore, it becomes possible to easily and efficiently manufacture blades 10 with high identifiability.

[0131] 6. Other embodiments: The technology of this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and reference examples described above, and can be modified as described below. Any configuration described herein as other embodiments is, like the embodiments described above, just an example of a form for carrying out the technology of this disclosure.

[0132] The configuration of the arrangement pattern is not limited to those exemplified in the embodiments described above. The arrangement pattern may be formed, for example, only near the upper edge 25 of the blade base material 18, or only near the boundary between the cutting edge region 13e and the non-cutting edge region 13n of the blade base material 18. The arrangement pattern may be formed locally in a portion of the surface of the blade base material 18.

[0133] In the first embodiment described above, the blade base material 18 and the blade body 12 may be made of a laminated steel (clad material) other than Damascus steel. The blade base material 18 and the blade body 12 may be made of, for example, a three-layer steel combining stainless steel or other steel materials. Three-layer steel generally has a structure in which a core material with high hardness and ease of improving sharpness is provided on both sides, and side materials with high toughness and rust resistance are provided on both sides. Even when three-layer steel is used, a wave pattern is formed on the surface of the cutting edge 20 due to the layer boundary between the core material and the side materials. This wave pattern is formed in a state in which distortion occurs according to the uneven structure of the cutting edge mark 35e. Therefore, as described in the first embodiment, the identifiability and design of the blade body 12 and the blade 10 equipped therewith can be improved.

[0134] The configurations described in each of the above embodiments may be applied to other bladed tools besides kitchen knives. For example, the configurations described in each of the above embodiments may be applied to knives, scissors, and the like. For example, a pattern including multiple identification marks may be formed on the surface of the blade of a knife or scissors. Furthermore, in the technology of this disclosure, bladed tools are not limited to those that actually have a cutting function, but also include items that are not manufactured to perform a cutting function, such as decorative imitation swords. The technical essence of the technology of this disclosure lies in its identifiability and, by extension, its design, and the presence or absence of a cutting function in a bladed tool is a secondary element.

[0135] 7. Other aspects: Each of the embodiments and reference examples described above can be interpreted as an example of the following embodiments.

[0136] [Aspect 1] Aspect 1 is provided as a method for manufacturing a blade. The manufacturing method of Aspect 1 comprises the steps of: preparing a blade base material which constitutes the blade body portion of the blade and has on its surface a cutting edge region which constitutes a cutting edge in the blade body portion and a non-cutting edge region adjacent to the cutting edge region which does not constitute a cutting edge; determining an identification mark for the blade and creating an arrangement pattern in which the determined identification mark is placed at a plurality of positions based on the shape of the blade base material; and forming the arrangement pattern on the surface of the blade base material such that at least one of the identification marks is displayed as a whole in the non-cutting edge region, and at least one of the identification marks is displayed in a state where it is divided at the edge of the blade base material, or in a state where it extends from the non-cutting edge region into the cutting edge region. According to the manufacturing method of Embodiment 1, an arrangement pattern composed of multiple identification marks is created based on the shape of the blade base material and formed on the surface of the blade, so that the placement position of the identification marks can be appropriately controlled to match the shape of the blade. Furthermore, if multiple identification marks are displayed on the blade, the identifiableness of the identification marks on the blade can be enhanced, and the disappearance of the identification marks from the blade due to wear or removal can be suppressed. Moreover, since at least one identification mark is displayed in the non-cutting edge area in a state in which the entirety can be recognized, the decrease in readability and visibility of the identification marks on the blade can be suppressed more reliably. On the other hand, at least one identification mark is displayed on the blade either in a state where it is divided at the edge of the blade, or in a state where the portion extending into the cutting edge area disappears towards the cutting edge due to the formation of the cutting edge. As a result, the state in which a part of the identification mark is missing gives the blade a new unique characteristic, thereby further enhancing the identifiableness of the blade. Thus, the determination of the authenticity of the blade can be made easier.

[0137] [Aspect 2] In the manufacturing method described in Aspect 1 above, the identification mark is information that enables identification and may include letters, figures, symbols, or patterns as constituent elements. According to the manufacturing method of Embodiment 2, since the identification mark consists of letters, figures, symbols, or patterns, the identification information for identifying the blade can be more clearly displayed on the blade. Therefore, the identifiability of the blade by the identification mark can be further enhanced, and the determination of the authenticity of the blade can be made even easier.

[0138] [Aspect 3] In the manufacturing method described in Aspect 1 or Aspect 2 above, the identification mark is information that enables identification and may include a name, abbreviation, initial, trademark, logo, word, phrase, sentence, number sequence, code, or a combination thereof. According to the manufacturing method of Embodiment 3, the identification mark is composed of information that is easily discriminatory, thereby further enhancing the identifiability of the blade by the identification mark. Therefore, the determination of the authenticity of the blade can be made even easier.

[0139] [Aspect 4] In the manufacturing method described in any of Aspect 1, Aspect 2, or Aspect 3, the blade base material is made of laminated steel obtained by stacking a plurality of steel types in the thickness direction, the arrangement pattern is formed by press working on the blade base material such that at least one of the identification marks extends from the non-cutting edge region to the cutting edge region, and the cutting edge may be formed by polishing the cutting edge region. According to the manufacturing method of Embodiment 4, (i) a portion of the identification mark is displayed on the surface of the cutting edge in a manner that disappears towards the cutting edge, and (ii) a wave pattern or stripe pattern caused by the layer boundary of the laminated steel is formed in a manner that is distorted according to the uneven structure of the identification mark. As a result, since the blade body is further given unique characteristic points, the identifiability of the blade body can be further enhanced, and the determination of the authenticity of the blade can be made even easier. Furthermore, the wave pattern or stripe pattern of the cutting edge formed according to the uneven structure of the identification mark can enhance the design of the blade.

[0140] [Aspect 5] In the manufacturing method described in any of Aspects 1, 2, 3, or 4, the arrangement pattern may be formed to cover at least the edge of the blade base material opposite to the cutting edge region. According to the manufacturing method of embodiment 5, multiple identification marks can be placed along the edge of the blade base material on the side opposite to the cutting edge region. This makes it easier to form more segmented identification marks on the edge, further increasing the number of characteristic points of the blade. Therefore, the identifiability of the blade can be further enhanced.

[0141] [Aspect 6] In the manufacturing method described in any of Aspects 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, the arrangement pattern may be formed on the blade substrate so as to cover at least the boundary between the cutting edge region and the non-cutting edge region. According to the manufacturing method of embodiment 6, more identification marks can be formed along the boundary between the cutting edge region and the non-cutting edge region, so as to gradually disappear toward the cutting edge side. This further increases the number of characteristic points on the blade body, thereby further enhancing the identifiability of the blade.

[0142] [Aspect 7] In the manufacturing method described in any of Aspects 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, the arrangement pattern may be formed to cover the entire surface of the blade substrate. According to the manufacturing method of Embodiment 7, more identification marks can be placed across the entire surface of the blade. Therefore, the deterioration of the blade's identifiability due to wear, damage, or removal of the identification marks can be more reliably suppressed. In addition, it is easy to place multiple identification marks, some of which are missing, along the edges of the blade and the boundaries of the cutting edge. This makes it even easier to increase the number of characteristic points on the blade, thereby further enhancing the identifiability of the blade.

[0143] [Aspect 8] In the manufacturing method described in any of Aspects 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, the step of forming the arrangement pattern on the surface of the blade substrate may include a step of overlapping one or more of the arrangement patterns to form a superimposed pattern. According to the manufacturing method of embodiment 8, a new design feature can be added to the appearance of the blade body through a simple process of overlapping arrangement patterns, thus easily enhancing both distinctiveness and aesthetic appeal.

[0144] [Aspect 9] In the manufacturing method described in any of Aspects 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8, in the step of creating the arrangement pattern, a computer may automatically generate candidate arrangement patterns using information representing the identification mark and information representing the shape of the cutting tool substrate. According to the manufacturing method of embodiment 9, based on the shape of the blade base material, it is possible to easily generate an arrangement pattern in which the position of the identification mark displayed as a whole in the non-cutting area, the position of the identification mark displayed partially missing, and the state of the missing part are adjusted. Therefore, it becomes possible to easily and efficiently manufacture blades with high identifiability.

[0145] [Aspect 10] The manufacturing method described in any of the above aspects 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 may further include the steps of: forming the cutting edge on the blade substrate on which the arrangement pattern is formed to constitute the blade body; and imaging the blade body to record an image that includes an image of the identification mark partially displayed at least at the edge or at the boundary between the cutting edge region and the non-cutting edge region. According to the manufacturing method of embodiment 10, since an image is recorded that includes an image of an identification mark partially displayed with a portion omitted as predetermined, it is easy to manage the blade based on the unique characteristic points of the blade. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0146] 10...Blade, 10A...Blade, 12...Blade body, 12A...Blade body, 12s...Surface, 13e...Cutting edge area, 13n...Non-cutting edge area, 15...Gripping part, 16...Connecting member, 18...Blade base material, 20...Cutting edge, 21...Cutting edge, 23...Cutting tip, 25...Edge, 26...Extension part, 27...Rear end face, 30...Arrangement pattern, 30a...Arrangement pattern, 30b...Arrangement pattern, 30c...Arrangement pattern, 30d...Arrangement pattern, 30B...Arrangement pattern, 3 0Ca…Arrangement pattern, 30Cb…Arrangement pattern, 32Ba…Superimposed pattern, 32Bb…Superimposed pattern, 32C…Superimposed pattern, 35…Identification mark, 35p…Disconnection mark, 35e…Cutting edge mark, 50…Arrangement pattern generation program, 51…Identification mark acquisition unit, 52…Shape information acquisition unit, 55…Arrangement pattern generation unit, 57…Arrangement pattern output unit, BF…Contour shape, FD…Shape data, ID…Marker data, PI…Operation unit

Claims

1. It is a bladed weapon, A blade body portion having a cutting edge, the surface of which includes a cutting edge region constituting the cutting edge and a non-cutting edge region adjacent to the cutting edge region that does not constitute the cutting edge, The blade has a configuration in which identification marks are placed at multiple positions, and the arrangement pattern is formed on the surface of the blade portion, Equipped with, The arrangement pattern is a blade in which at least one of the identification marks is displayed as a whole in the non-cutting area, and at least one of the identification marks is displayed in a state where it is divided at the edge of the blade body, or in a state where the portion extending from the non-cutting area into the cutting area disappears towards the cutting edge.

2. A cutting tool according to claim 1, The aforementioned identification mark is information that enables identification and includes letters, figures, symbols, or patterns as constituent elements of a cutting tool.

3. A cutting tool according to claim 1, The aforementioned identification mark is information that enables identification and includes a name, abbreviation, initials, trademark, logo, word, phrase, sentence, number sequence, code, or combination thereof, for a bladed tool.

4. A cutting tool according to claim 1, The blade portion is made of laminated steel formed by stacking multiple types of steel in the thickness direction. The arrangement pattern is formed by the uneven structure on the surface of the blade body, and in at least one of the identification marks, the portion extending from the non-cutting edge region to the cutting edge region disappears towards the cutting edge side. The cutting edge has a wave pattern or stripe pattern formed on it, which is caused by the layer boundary of the laminated steel, and is distorted according to the uneven structure.

5. A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The arrangement pattern is formed to cover at least the edge of the blade body opposite to the cutting edge, in a cutting tool.

6. A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The arrangement pattern is formed in the blade portion such that it covers at least the boundary between the cutting edge region and the non-cutting edge region of the blade.

7. A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The arrangement pattern is formed to cover at least the non-cutting area and includes the identification mark displayed in a state where it is divided at the edge, and the identification mark displayed in a state where the portion extending from the non-cutting area to the cutting area disappears towards the cutting edge.

8. A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A cutting tool having a superimposed pattern formed on the blade portion by overlapping one or more of the aforementioned arrangement patterns.

Images