Device and Method for Sharpening A Serrated Blade

Abstract

The invention herein relates to a method and device for sharpening the protrusion elements, or teeth, of a serrated blade, specifically that of a motorized hedge-trimmer device. A plurality of teeth of a serrated blade may be sharpened continuously by the mechanical assistance of this invention. This method and device of this invention utilize pre-adjustment features that achieve consistent, accurate results.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a nonprovisional utility patent application claiming benefit of its prior filed provisional patent application, Patent App. No. 63 / 699,052 (filing date Sep. 25, 2024), pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(e).FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER LISTING APPENDIX

[0003] Not applicable.COPYRIGHT NOTICE

[0004] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark office, patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0005] This application is directed to a device and method for sharpening the serrated blades of automatic hedge trimmer devices.BACKGROUND

[0006] Hedge trimmers essentially comprise two separate sharpened blades that bypass each other, causing a cross-cut at their location of intersection. This may be achieved by manner of a scissor-type device wherein a handle grip on one end causes the bypassing cross-blade motion at the other end. This is typical of manually operable hedge trimming devices. Alternatively, automatic (motorized) hedge trimming devices do not apply a scissor configuration to achieve the cross-blade bypass motion. Rather, such devices apply a reciprocating motion for each of two parallel overlaid blades, wherein each blade has a plurality of serrated protrusions or teeth. The cross-cutting effect occurs between the teeth of the two blades when they bypass each other in a linear reciprocating motion. Note that reference to said serrated protrusions or serrated teeth are interchangeable in meaning. The singular form of either words shall refer to the same element of said device in singular form.

[0007] Each serrated tooth of said plurality of serrated teeth of each said blade will bypass another tooth of the overlaid blade in a reciprocating manner, but in opposing direction such that a cross-cut effect is achieved in the space between each by-passing tooth. As such, each individual tooth of each blade, along with the individual tooth of its overlaid counterpart, forms an individual cross-cutting unit. The sharp cutting portion of each blade is located along the side edge of each tooth that bypasses the side edge of another overlaid tooth. The sharpness of each tooth's side edge will determine how fine and clean a cut will be.

[0008] This invention pertains to a device and method for sharpening the teeth of serrated blades of automated hedgetrimmers. Unlike a knife where the sharp cutting portion is along the length of the blade, the sharp cutting portion of an automatic hedge trimmer blade is perpendicular to the length of the blade, along the sides of each tooth. The shape and dimension of a hedge trimmer blade will dictate how it will be sharpened. Precision and accuracy in the honing effort will need to follow the unique dimensions and features of the blade.

[0009] There is limited prior art in this industry relating to this technology. The current standard method in the industry for sharpening or honing the serrated blades of an automatic hedge trimmer involves manual operation of a handheld mechanical rotating sanding tool. This technique relies on the individual experience and feel of each operator. Speed and consistency in the sharpening process between the sharpened tools and between operators become problematic as each operator has a different physical and experiential capacity.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 10,675,736 introduces a mechanical method for honing blades. However, this method relates only to kitchen knife blades. The device of this patent provides an adjustable wedge element with variable steepness in its sharpening platform. The angle by which the edge of a knife blade is sharpened may be adjusted with said adjustable wedge element. This device is designed specifically for length-wise honing of a knife blade, relying solely on forward and backward movement along a single vector parallel to the length of the knife blade. The design of this device is not compatible with the U or V shape teeth of a serrated hedge trimmer blade and would slow down the process beyond the current manual standard.

[0011] Japanese Patent Application No. JP2004082241A discloses an automized grinding tool with a preset guide for a consistent and accurate grinding effect. A motorized belt rotates past the item seated in the preset guide. The preset guide may be adjusted to widen or narrow the area exposed to grinding. This invention essentially provides a single direction and a single angle for grinding an item. The item is honed along a single axis or vertex. The belt moves in a single direction (forward). The design of this device is also not compatible with the shape and design of a serrated hedge trimmer blade and does not facilitate a faster process compared to current manual standards.

[0012] Yet another level of complexity among automatic hedge trimmer blades lies in the variation of their shapes. Commercial hedgetrimmer blades come in different forms with a variety of tooth dimensions, shapes, sizes, and gaps. Spacing gaps between adjacent teeth may range between 0.5 inch to 1.5 inches apart. The blade shape may comprise a “T” blade for more precision trimming or an “R” blade for thinning woody shrubs. There are also single-sided blades with a sharp edge on one side for improved safety. Double-sided blades provide sharp edges on both sides for improved speed and efficiency. Current art for honing hedge-trimmer blades lacks consideration of these variables. There remains a need in the industry for a universal manually operable method and device that enables consistent, accurate, and fast honing of serrated hedge trimmer blades of various dimensions and shapes.BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0013] The invention herein relates to a method, system, and device for sharpening the tooth elements of a serrated blade, specifically that of an automatic hedge-trimmer device. The typical serrated blade of an automatic hedgetrimmer device typically comprises two separate blades (preferably of identical shape, features, and dimensions) that are overlaid above and below each other. Said two overlaid blades are attached at one end to a motor-driven mechanical element that enables a forward and backward reciprocation of the top and bottom blades. When the mechanical element is enabled, the top and bottom blades reciprocate in opposing directions, resulting in a cutting effect therebetween.

[0014] A serrated blade of an automatic hedgetrimmer device may comprise a variety of shapes, features, and dimensions. Current standard commercial blades may comprise, but are not limited to, the following feature options: Spacing gaps between adjacent teeth may range between 0.5 inch to 1.5 inches apart. The blade shape may comprise a “T” blade for more precision trimming or an “R” blade for thinning woody shrubs. There are also single-sided blades with a sharp edge on one side for improved safety. Double-sided blades provide sharp edges on both sides for improved speed and efficiency.

[0015] The variable features among blades sought to be sharpened by this invention comprises the following: a) length of the blade, b) curvature of the serrated portion or the individual tooth of said blade, c) which side edge of said blade contains serrated teeth (may be one or both sides of each said blade), d) the shape of each tooth, e) the shape, angle, and width of the space gap between each tooth and an adjacent tooth, f) the length of each tooth, g) which side of each tooth requires honing (may be one or both sides of the length of each said tooth), g) the angle or steepness for sharpening or honing, h) the direction of sharpening or honing, i) the thickness of the blade, j) the thickness of each tooth. A manually operable automatic honing device of this invention would comprise a mechanically driven device where the honing function is manually executed. Said device must universally accommodate all the varieties of features identified herein (without limitations to such features) while achieving speedy, consistent, and accurate sharpening results, no matter the experience or capability of the operator.

[0016] The device of this invention is comprised of the following elements: a) a horizontal planar surface, b) said horizontal planar surface having a surface area long enough and wide enough to accommodate the elements of the device of this invention, c) said horizontal planar surface having a front end and a rear end, d) said horizontal planar surface having at least one or more groove or perforation or a combination of both at its front end and at least one or more of said groove or perforation or a combination of both at its rear end, e) said at least one or more groove or perforation or combination of both of both front and rear end may accommodate a screw and nut element or an equivalent releasable tightening element, f) at least one linear bar that is adaptable to be positioned along a vector angle relative the linear center of said horizontal planar surface between said front end or rear end of said horizontal planar surface, g) said at least one linear bar is releasably connectable onto said horizontal planar surface by said screw and nut element or equivalent releasable tightening element at said one or more groove or perforation or a combination of both at said front and rear end, h) a rotatable sanding belt centrally positioned on and through said horizontal planar surface, i) said rotatable sanding belt is motor driven, j) said rotatable sanding belt is rotatable perpendicularly to and through said horizontal planar surface, k) said rotatable sanding belt is held within a removable housing element, l) said removable housing element having at least one end that is open and exposing the rough surface of said rotatable sanding belt, m) the angle by which said rotatable sanding belt passes through and bisects said horizontal planar surface is adjustable by adjustment of an angularly adjustable plate between zero to 180 degrees relative to said horizontal planar surface.

[0017] The method and system by which this device is used to sharpen the serrated teeth of an automatic hedgetrimmer device is as follows: 1) Set the position of a serrated blade such that the length of its tooth is flushly touching the sandy surface of said sanding belt, 2) adjust and set into position said at least one or more linear bar at either said front end or rear end or both ends on said horizontal planar surface in such a manner to abut against the set position of said serrated blade, 3) adjust the adjustable angular plate that contacts said rotatable sanding belt at a preferred angular degree of steepness relative to the horizontal planar surface to match the desired angle of honing of the serrated tooth, 4) enable the rotation of said rotatable sanding belt, 5) press or push the sharp length portion of a serrated blade tooth against the sandy surface of said rotatable sanding belt while the remaining portion of said serrated blade abuts the at least one or more linear bar, 6) remove the sharpenned serrated blade tooth from the sandy surface of said rotatable sanding belt, 7) move said serrated blade forward along said at least one or more linear bar in flush manner and press or push the another serrated blade tooth against the sandy surface of said rotatable sanding belt for additional honing.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIONS

[0018] In order to facilitate an understanding of this invention, the preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings identified below.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of this invention.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of this invention.

[0021] FIG. 3 is a right side view with a partial exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of this invention.

[0022] FIGS. 4a and 4b are top views of a preferred embodiment of the device of this invention in use.

[0023] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a preferred embodiment of the device of this invention.

[0024] FIG. 6a is a left side view of a preferred embodiment of the device of this invention.

[0025] FIG. 6b is a right side view of a preferred embodiment of the device of this invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

[0026] While the foregoing specification illustrates and describes exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements, thereof, without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0027] FIGS. 1 through 7 provides a preferred embodiment of this invention, which relates to a device 100 and method for honing the serrated blade 101 of an automatic hedgetrimmer device. The device enables an operator of ordinary skill level to hone a variety of serrated blades 101 of an automatic hedgetrimmer in uniform manner and achieve consistent results with speed. The device comprises a horizontal planar surface 102 that functions as a work-station containing adjustable guide elements 103 and a motor-driven rotatable sanding belt 104. The guide elements 103 on said horizontal planar surface 102, or alternatively referrable to as the work-station, are positioned in such a manner as to maintain a serrated blade 101 in a predetermined position as the serrated blade 101 abuts the guide elements 103.

[0028] The device of this invention is comprised of the following elements: a) a horizontal planar surface 102, b) said horizontal planar surface 102 having a surface area long enough and wide enough to hold the elements of this device, c) said horizontal planar surface having a front end 105 and a rear end 106, d) said horizontal planar surface 102 having at least one or more groove or perforation or a combination of both at its front end 107 and at least one or more of said groove or perforation or a combination of both 107 at its rear end, e) said at least one or more groove or perforation or combination of both 107 of both front and rear end may accommodate a screw and nut element 108 or an equivalent releasable tightening element, f) at least one linear bar 103 that is adaptable to be positioned along a vector angle relative to the linear center of said horizontal planar surface at said front end 105 or rear end 106 or both ends of said horizontal planar surface 102, g) said at least one linear bar 103 is releasably connectable onto said horizontal planar surface 102 by said screw and nut element 108 or equivalent releasable tightening element at said one or more groove or perforation or a combination of both 107 at said front and rear end, h) a rotatable sanding belt 104 centrally positioned on and through said horizontal planar surface, i) said rotatable sanding belt 104 is motor driven, j) said rotatable sanding belt 104 is rotatable perpendicularly to and through said horizontal planar surface 102, k) said rotatable sanding belt 104 is held within a removable protective housing element 109, l) said removable protective housing element 109 having at least one end that is open 110 and exposing the rough surface of said rotatable sanding belt 104, m) the angle by which said rotatable sanding belt passes through and bisects said horizontal planar surface is adjustable by adjustment of an angularly adjustable plate 111 between zero to 180 degrees relative to said horizontal planar surface.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of this invention, the device may comprise the following features. A horizontal planar surface 102 may alternatively be referrable to as a work-station. The work-station may comprise any size and shape. The work-station provides a minimum surface area sufficient to hold each and all of the elements of this invention thereon. The work-station further provides a minimum surface area sufficient to enable and support the method of operation of this system, which would include holding at least one serrated blade 101 of an automatic hedgetrimmer device while the device 100 is in use. The overall features of said work-station having a flat planar surface with a straight, angular, or curved edge or any combination thereof. The flat planar surface of said work-station 102 essentially provides a platform surface with sufficient surface area space to hold at least the following elements: one or more guide elements 103, a rotatable sanding belt 104 held within a housing element, and at least one or more serrated blades 101 of an automatic hedge trimmer machine. The work station 102 may be large enough to hold additional elements such as removably attachable fixtures which include but is not limited to the following: light fixture 112, vacuum, vacuum hose, fan. The work-station platform 102 is preferably raised or raisable above the ground to a level that is at least at or above the height of an adult human person's knee level and preferably at least at or above the height of an adult human person's waist level. This would allow the user to operate the device 100 and system in either a standing or seated position. The height of said work-station platform 102 may alternatively be adjustable.

[0030] A preferred embodiment of the rotatable sanding belt element comprises a flexible sanding sheet 104 in the form of a round belt. Said round belt having a planar and linear shape, and with a left and a right side edge. The sanding sheet of said round belt has an external side that is rough and may further be embedded with sand-sized particles. The rear or back side of said sanding sheet round belt may be flat or smooth. The sanding sheet round belt 104 is thin and flexible and may comprise paper, metal, plastic, rubber, fibrous, or weaved materials or any combination thereof. This material supports the rough external surface that may include sand-sized particles embedded thereon. Said flexible sanding sheet round belt 104 is wrapped around three rotatable wheel or cylinder pulley elements 113, wherein at least one is motorized, forming a belt-driven system 113. The at least three rotatable wheel or cylinder pulley elements 113 are oriented in a triangular configuration wherein a first 118 and second pulley 119 element are positioned in parallel and horizontally above the surface of said work-station. Said third pulley element 121 is centrally positioned between said first and second pulley elements below the surface of said work-station. The sanding sheet round belt is wrapped around all three pulley elements and threaded through the planar surface of said work-station. The external surface of said sanding sheet round belt faces the opposite direction from the pulley elements and is exposed toward the ambient environment. Said sanding sheet round belt is removably attachable, disposable, and replaceable. The elements of this belt-driven system include said sanding sheet round belt 104, the three rotatable wheel or cylinder pulley elements 113, a motor drive connected to at least one of said three rotatable wheel or cylinder pulley elements, and are contained within a durable and partially enclosed protective housing 109.

[0031] Said protective housing having a front 115 and rear side 116, top side, and left and right sides. Said protective housing also having a bottom side 117 which may be the same as or continuous with the planar surface of said work-station table. An opening through said protective housing 109 is located at its front or rear sides and adjacently through the planar surface of said work-station table. Said first 118 and second 119 pulley elements are contained within said protective housing 109 wherein said first 118 and second 119 pulley elements are positioned at either ends of said protective housing towards its front 115 and rear 116 sides. Said sanding sheet round belt 104 is wrapped around said first 118 and second 119 pulley elements and threaded through the two openings of said work-station table at its front and rear sides to access and wrap around said third pulley element 121 underneath said work-station table 102. See, FIG. 6a.

[0032] An angularly adjustable plate 111 is positioned through at least one of said two openings of said work-station at its front or rear sides. See, FIG. 3. Said angularly adjustable plate having a width that is at least as wide as the width of said rotatable belt. Said angularly adjustable plate is preferably a durable solid material having a smooth surface that interfaces with said sanding belt. Said angularly adjustable belt may comprise any of the following hard, durable non-brittle materials or combinations thereof: plastic, bio-plastic, metal, wood, fiber composite, composite material, mineral based, glass, or organic and organic composite material. Said angularly adjustable plate 111 having a flat surface that is contactable with the backside of said sanding belt. The angle of said angularly adjustable plate may be changed and fixed into position at a preferred angular position above the surface of said work station. The surrounding perimeter shape of said angularly adjustable plate may comprise a linear, angular, or curved shape or any combination thereof. The angular adjustment of said angularly adjustable plate is enabled by a pivoting means which may lock into a fixed preferred position or unlocked to allow a change of position. Said pivoting means may be by any currently known technical means, including but not limited to rotation around a central rod or pin, a gear element, etc. The position of said angularly adjustable plate against the backside of said sanding belt pushes the sanding belt outward parallel to the same angular plane of said angularly adjustable plate. Such that the sandling belt protrudes forward at the predetermined angular position of said angularly adjustable plate. This enables the sanding belt to hone the serrated blade at a desired steepness. Said angularly adjustable plate 111 further provides a solid surface against which said sanding belt will be pushed against during the honing process. This provides a stable and secure leverage to the sanding belt to achieve a consistent honing effect when honing a serrated blade.

[0033] Said protective housing 109 further having a removable top portion. Said removable top portion 120 of said protective housing 109 comprising a plate 120 that is removably attachable to the top of said housing. When said plate 120 is removed, the internal space of said housing is exposed. The sanding belt 104 held therein would be exposed and accessible when said plate 120 is removed and the top of said housing 109 is in an open position. See, FIGS. 1 and 2. In such instance, the sanding belt 104 is contactable by an external item outside of said housing, such as said serrated blade. Said serrated blade may be placed over the open space of said housing in direct contact with said sanding belt. When in operating mode, the sanding belt may further hone said serrated blade as it is laid over said housing. This is advantageous for cleaning and removing debris attached to the side surface of said serrated blade.

[0034] A preferred embodiment of the guide element 103 of this invention comprises one or more linear bar elements 103. Said linear bar element 103 is composed of a durable hard material such as: plastic, bio-plastic, metal, wood, fiber composite, mineral based, glass, or organic and organic composite material. The linear bar element 103 is intended to stretch the length of the horizontal planar surface along its said front and rear ends and to either front and rear sides of said rotatable sanding belt element. Said linear bar may comprise two separate bars, wherein each of said two bars is positioned at the front end and rear end of said horizontal planar surface. Each of said two bars is angularly adjustable from the center cross-sectional vector axis of said rotatable sanding belt element on said horizontal planar surface. Alternatively, the angular adjustment of each linear bar of said two linear bars may be between 0 to 180 degrees along the horizontal plane of said horizontal planar surface. Each linear bar of said two linear bars having a distal end and a rear end. The distal end of either of said two linear bars is positioned closest to the external edge of said horizontal planar surface. The rear end of either of said two linear bars is positioned closest towards said rotatable belt element. A groove or perforation 107 that is embedded through said horizontal planar surface is located near the distal end and rear end of each of said two linear bars. Essentially, there are at least a total of three (3) grooves or perforations 107, alternatively referrable to as two pair units, embedded through said horizontal planar surface. Each groove or perforation is a track system whereby an individual linear bar is positioned over each pair unit of grooves or perforations at a preferred angle. The desired angle position is then locked in place by a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be of any known existing technology such as, but not limited to, a nut and screw mechanism 108. See, FIG. 5. According to a preferred embodiment of this invention, the preferred angle of each said two linear bars 103 are co-linear such that the two linear bars extend adjacently end to end along the same linear vector on said horizontal planar surface. The co-linear effect is enabled by the track system of said grooves or perforations 107, allowing separate angular adjustment of each of said two linear bars. The purpose of this feature is to provide a straight edge support for a long blade that is moved forward or rearward from the rotatable sanding belt element as it is being honed. See, FIGS. 1 and 2. Each linear bar element having a straight linear left and right side such that it provides a straight edge effect on its either sides. The preferred angular position of each of said two linear bars is based on the location where the surface of said rotatable belt meets the blade surface of the serrated blade. The set angle of said two linear bars will allow the user to achieve a consistent angle of contact between the rotatable sanding belt and each blade of said serrated blade. Each groove or perforation may comprise a single length of space that is linear, curved, or angled or a combination thereof. Alternatively, each groove or perforation may comprise a single hole among a series of adjacent holes that form a pattern of holes along a linear, curved, or angular path or a combination thereof. In this case, the hole should be large enough to receive a locking mechanism, such as but not limited to a screw and nut element. Alternatively yet, the groove or perforation may not necessarily pierce through the full thickness of the horizontal surface but rather, may comprise a partial groove therethrough. In such an embodiment, the locking mechanism may comprise a magnetic element wherein the linear bar may be locked in place by strong magnets on either sides of said linear bar and horizontal planar surface. Alternatively, the locking mechanism may utilize pneumatic pressure or vacuum pressure to hold said linear bar in place within each of said groove or perforation. Alternatively yet, instead of a groove or perforation on or through said horizontal surface, the surface may be continuously flat without a groove or perforation but rather alternatively provide some visual indicia of a predetermined location for attaching said guide element or linear bars thereon. The means of attaching said guide element or linear bars to said visual indicia of a predetermined location may be mechanical, pneumatic, or magnetic.

[0035] An alternative embodiment of said guide element may comprise a plurality of raised barriers that are either permanently attached to, removably attachable to, or adjustably attached to (or any combinations thereof) the top surface of said work-station. Said plurality of raised barriers of this alternative embodiment of said guide element may be pre-positioned at different locations on the top surface of said work-station or alternatively be removably attachable to different locations thereon. The method of removably attaching each said raised barrier of said plurality of raised barriers may be by any current known means in the art, including a peg and hole method, a nut and bolt method, a magnetic method, vacuum or suction pressure method, pneumatic method, etc. The directional orientation of each of said plurality of raised barriers relative to the edge of said work-station may further be adjustable. Each said raised barrier of said plurality of raised barriers may comprise any length, shape, or width and is preferably no greater than the maximum dimensional length and width of said horizontal planar surface of said work-station. Each said raised barrier of said plurality of raised barriers serves the function of providing a buttress and support for which a serrated blade would rest against during the honing process. The effect of the barrier is to maintain the serrated blade in a pre-determined stationary position and orientation on said work-station during the honing process.

[0036] The method of this invention comprises the following broad steps: adjusting the guide elements to meet the dimensional parameters of said serrated blade, adjusting the angular adjustment plate to a preferred angle, positioning said serrated blade against said guide elements and against said rotatable belt, honing said serrated blade against said rotatable sanding belt.

[0037] Said serrated blade of an automatic hedge trimmer having two flat surfaces, referred to herein as a first flat side and a second flat side. Said serrated blade further having two opposing serrated edges, a first 122 and second edge 123, along its length. Each of said two serrated edges having a plurality of individual teeth 124 each separated by a gap space therebetween. Said teeth may be alternatively referrable in singular form as an individual tooth or as teeth in plural form. Each tooth of said plurality of teeth is separated by a space-gap 125 therebetween. Each tooth of said plurality of teeth is preferably equally shaped with equal dimensional features. Each individual tooth is equal distance from an adjacent tooth of said plurality of teeth along a given edge of said two edges of said serrated blade. The space-gap 125 between each adjacent individual tooth of said plurality of teeth on a given side of said serrated blade is of the same size and dimension. The perimeter edge of each individual tooth may be rounded or angular in shape with a forward side 126 and a rearward side 127. Either the forward side 126 or rearward side 127 or both forward and rearward sides of each individual tooth are beveled 128 at an angle to create a sharp edge. The external side of the perimeter edge of each individual tooth faces towards the external environment away from the center of said serrated blade, and may or may not be beveled. The beveled feature 128 of the forward or rearward sides of each individual tooth are uniform in each of their angle, shape, and dimension. The beveled feature 128 of each said individual tooth is further located only on one of either said first flat side or second flat side. The beveled features (angle, shape, dimension) of each individual tooth are mirror aspects of said first and second edges of each said serrated blade such that the features along the first edge are equal opposite features of those along the second edge.

[0038] Said method of this invention comprising the following steps. The method of 1) adjusting the guide elements to fit and meet the parameters of the beveled features of either the forward or rearward side of an individual tooth of said first or second edge (see, FIGS. 4a), 2) adjusting the angular adjustment plate to a preferred angle, 3) honing said individual tooth of fitted edge against the rotating sanding belt, 4) adjusting the guide element to fit and meet the parameters of the beveled features of the forward or rearward side of an individual tooth of an opposing edge (see, FIGS. 4b), 6) adjusting the angular adjustment plate to a preferred angle, 5) honing the individual tooth of said fitted edge.

[0039] When adjusting the guide elements to meet the parameters of the beveled features of a forward or rearward side of said first or second edge of said serrated blade, the two linear bars (or alternatively the plurality of raised barriers) are adjusted to follow a colinear vector path such that either said first or second edge of said serrated blade will flushly abut the linear bar or raised barriers for at least half or more of the length of said serrated blade. See, FIGS. 4a and 4b. Said linear bar serves as a barrier or guard rail and a guide for said serrated blade, maintaining said serrated blade in a desired position on said work-station surface at a desired angle or pitch. According to a preferred embodiment, said desired angle or pitch of said serrated blade is in a position where at least one or more of the individual tooth at their rearward or forward sides rests flushly against the wide surface of said sanding belt at the open end of said housing element. The angular adjustment plate behind said sanding belt may be adjusted and fixed in place at a desired angle for honing the side of said individual tooth that is abutting the sanding belt. The sanding belt and the overall device is not in an operating mode while the guide element and the angular adjustment plates are being adjusted into the preferred position. The guide element (either the two linear bars or their alternative embodiments by manner of raised barriers) should be positioned facing the side of said serrated blade that is being honed such that the serrated blade may be freely pushed and pulled forward and backward from the rotating belt without obstruction during honing operation.

[0040] Having fully described at least one embodiment of the present invention, other equivalent or alternative methods according to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention has been described by way of summary and illustration. The specific embodiments disclosed in the above drawings are not intended to be limiting. Implementations of the present invention with various different configurations are contemplated as within the scope of the present invention. The invention is thus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0026]While the foregoing specification illustrates and describes exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements, thereof, without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0027]FIGS. 1 through 7 provides a preferred embodiment of this invention, which relates to a device 100 and method for honing the serrated blade 101 of an automatic hedgetrimmer device. The device enables an operator of ordinary skill level to hone a variety of serrated blades 1...

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a nonprovisional utility patent application claiming benefit of its prior filed provisional patent application, Patent App. No. 63 / 699,052 (filing date Sep. 25, 2024), pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(e).FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER LISTING APPENDIX

[0003] Not applicable.COPYRIGHT NOTICE

[0004] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark office, patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0005] This application is directed to a device and method for sharpening the serrated blades of automatic hedge trimmer devices.BACKGROUND

[0006] Hedge trimmers essentially comprise two separate sharpened blades that bypass each other, causing a cross-cut at their location of intersection. This may be achieved by manner of a scissor-type device wherein a handle grip on one end causes the bypassing cross-blade motion at the other end. This is typical of manually operable hedge trimming devices. Alternatively, automatic (motorized) hedge trimming devices do not apply a scissor configuration to achieve the cross-blade bypass motion. Rather, such devices apply a reciprocating motion for each of two parallel overlaid blades, wherein each blade has a plurality of serrated protrusions or teeth. The cross-cutting effect occurs between the teeth of the two blades when they bypass each other in a linear reciprocating motion. Note that reference to said serrated protrusions or serrated teeth are interchangeable in meaning. The singular form of either words shall refer to the same element of said device in singular form.

[0007] Each serrated tooth of said plurality of serrated teeth of each said blade will bypass another tooth of the overlaid blade in a reciprocating manner, but in opposing direction such that a cross-cut effect is achieved in the space between each by-passing tooth. As such, each individual tooth of each blade, along with the individual tooth of its overlaid counterpart, forms an individual cross-cutting unit. The sharp cutting portion of each blade is located along the side edge of each tooth that bypasses the side edge of another overlaid tooth. The sharpness of each tooth's side edge will determine how fine and clean a cut will be.

[0008] This invention pertains to a device and method for sharpening the teeth of serrated blades of automated hedgetrimmers. Unlike a knife where the sharp cutting portion is along the length of the blade, the sharp cutting portion of an automatic hedge trimmer blade is perpendicular to the length of the blade, along the sides of each tooth. The shape and dimension of a hedge trimmer blade will dictate how it will be sharpened. Precision and accuracy in the honing effort will need to follow the unique dimensions and features of the blade.

[0009] There is limited prior art in this industry relating to this technology. The current standard method in the industry for sharpening or honing the serrated blades of an automatic hedge trimmer involves manual operation of a handheld mechanical rotating sanding tool. This technique relies on the individual experience and feel of each operator. Speed and consistency in the sharpening process between the sharpened tools and between operators become problematic as each operator has a different physical and experiential capacity.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 10,675,736 introduces a mechanical method for honing blades. However, this method relates only to kitchen knife blades. The device of this patent provides an adjustable wedge element with variable steepness in its sharpening platform. The angle by which the edge of a knife blade is sharpened may be adjusted with said adjustable wedge element. This device is designed specifically for length-wise honing of a knife blade, relying solely on forward and backward movement along a single vector parallel to the length of the knife blade. The design of this device is not compatible with the U or V shape teeth of a serrated hedge trimmer blade and would slow down the process beyond the current manual standard.

[0011] Japanese Patent Application No. JP2004082241A discloses an automized grinding tool with a preset guide for a consistent and accurate grinding effect. A motorized belt rotates past the item seated in the preset guide. The preset guide may be adjusted to widen or narrow the area exposed to grinding. This invention essentially provides a single direction and a single angle for grinding an item. The item is honed along a single axis or vertex. The belt moves in a single direction (forward). The design of this device is also not compatible with the shape and design of a serrated hedge trimmer blade and does not facilitate a faster process compared to current manual standards.

[0012] Yet another level of complexity among automatic hedge trimmer blades lies in the variation of their shapes. Commercial hedgetrimmer blades come in different forms with a variety of tooth dimensions, shapes, sizes, and gaps. Spacing gaps between adjacent teeth may range between 0.5 inch to 1.5 inches apart. The blade shape may comprise a “T” blade for more precision trimming or an “R” blade for thinning woody shrubs. There are also single-sided blades with a sharp edge on one side for improved safety. Double-sided blades provide sharp edges on both sides for improved speed and efficiency. Current art for honing hedge-trimmer blades lacks consideration of these variables. There remains a need in the industry for a universal manually operable method and device that enables consistent, accurate, and fast honing of serrated hedge trimmer blades of various dimensions and shapes.BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0013] The invention herein relates to a method, system, and device for sharpening the tooth elements of a serrated blade, specifically that of an automatic hedge-trimmer device. The typical serrated blade of an automatic hedgetrimmer device typically comprises two separate blades (preferably of identical shape, features, and dimensions) that are overlaid above and below each other. Said two overlaid blades are attached at one end to a motor-driven mechanical element that enables a forward and backward reciprocation of the top and bottom blades. When the mechanical element is enabled, the top and bottom blades reciprocate in opposing directions, resulting in a cutting effect therebetween.

[0014] A serrated blade of an automatic hedgetrimmer device may comprise a variety of shapes, features, and dimensions. Current standard commercial blades may comprise, but are not limited to, the following feature options: Spacing gaps between adjacent teeth may range between 0.5 inch to 1.5 inches apart. The blade shape may comprise a “T” blade for more precision trimming or an “R” blade for thinning woody shrubs. There are also single-sided blades with a sharp edge on one side for improved safety. Double-sided blades provide sharp edges on both sides for improved speed and efficiency.

[0015] The variable features among blades sought to be sharpened by this invention comprises the following: a) length of the blade, b) curvature of the serrated portion or the individual tooth of said blade, c) which side edge of said blade contains serrated teeth (may be one or both sides of each said blade), d) the shape of each tooth, e) the shape, angle, and width of the space gap between each tooth and an adjacent tooth, f) the length of each tooth, g) which side of each tooth requires honing (may be one or both sides of the length of each said tooth), g) the angle or steepness for sharpening or honing, h) the direction of sharpening or honing, i) the thickness of the blade, j) the thickness of each tooth. A manually operable automatic honing device of this invention would comprise a mechanically driven device where the honing function is manually executed. Said device must universally accommodate all the varieties of features identified herein (without limitations to such features) while achieving speedy, consistent, and accurate sharpening results, no matter the experience or capability of the operator.

[0016] The device of this invention is comprised of the following elements: a) a horizontal planar surface, b) said horizontal planar surface having a surface area long enough and wide enough to accommodate the elements of the device of this invention, c) said horizontal planar surface having a front end and a rear end, d) said horizontal planar surface having at least one or more groove or perforation or a combination of both at its front end and at least one or more of said groove or perforation or a combination of both at its rear end, e) said at least one or more groove or perforation or combination of both of both front and rear end may accommodate a screw and nut element or an equivalent releasable tightening element, f) at least one linear bar that is adaptable to be positioned along a vector angle relative the linear center of said horizontal planar surface between said front end or rear end of said horizontal planar surface, g) said at least one linear bar is releasably connectable onto said horizontal planar surface by said screw and nut element or equivalent releasable tightening element at said one or more groove or perforation or a combination of both at said front and rear end, h) a rotatable sanding belt centrally positioned on and through said horizontal planar surface, i) said rotatable sanding belt is motor driven, j) said rotatable sanding belt is rotatable perpendicularly to and through said horizontal planar surface, k) said rotatable sanding belt is held within a removable housing element, l) said removable housing element having at least one end that is open and exposing the rough surface of said rotatable sanding belt, m) the angle by which said rotatable sanding belt passes through and bisects said horizontal planar surface is adjustable by adjustment of an angularly adjustable plate between zero to 180 degrees relative to said horizontal planar surface.

[0017] The method and system by which this device is used to sharpen the serrated teeth of an automatic hedgetrimmer device is as follows: 1) Set the position of a serrated blade such that the length of its tooth is flushly touching the sandy surface of said sanding belt, 2) adjust and set into position said at least one or more linear bar at either said front end or rear end or both ends on said horizontal planar surface in such a manner to abut against the set position of said serrated blade, 3) adjust the adjustable angular plate that contacts said rotatable sanding belt at a preferred angular degree of steepness relative to the horizontal planar surface to match the desired angle of honing of the serrated tooth, 4) enable the rotation of said rotatable sanding belt, 5) press or push the sharp length portion of a serrated blade tooth against the sandy surface of said rotatable sanding belt while the remaining portion of said serrated blade abuts the at least one or more linear bar, 6) remove the sharpenned serrated blade tooth from the sandy surface of said rotatable sanding belt, 7) move said serrated blade forward along said at least one or more linear bar in flush manner and press or push the another serrated blade tooth against the sandy surface of said rotatable sanding belt for additional honing.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIONS

[0018] In order to facilitate an understanding of this invention, the preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings identified below.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of this invention.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of this invention.

[0021] FIG. 3 is a right side view with a partial exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of this invention.

[0022] FIGS. 4a and 4b are top views of a preferred embodiment of the device of this invention in use.

[0023] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a preferred embodiment of the device of this invention.

[0024] FIG. 6a is a left side view of a preferred embodiment of the device of this invention.

[0025] FIG. 6b is a right side view of a preferred embodiment of the device of this invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

[0026] While the foregoing specification illustrates and describes exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements, thereof, without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0027] FIGS. 1 through 7 provides a preferred embodiment of this invention, which relates to a device 100 and method for honing the serrated blade 101 of an automatic hedgetrimmer device. The device enables an operator of ordinary skill level to hone a variety of serrated blades 101 of an automatic hedgetrimmer in uniform manner and achieve consistent results with speed. The device comprises a horizontal planar surface 102 that functions as a work-station containing adjustable guide elements 103 and a motor-driven rotatable sanding belt 104. The guide elements 103 on said horizontal planar surface 102, or alternatively referrable to as the work-station, are positioned in such a manner as to maintain a serrated blade 101 in a predetermined position as the serrated blade 101 abuts the guide elements 103.

[0028] The device of this invention is comprised of the following elements: a) a horizontal planar surface 102, b) said horizontal planar surface 102 having a surface area long enough and wide enough to hold the elements of this device, c) said horizontal planar surface having a front end 105 and a rear end 106, d) said horizontal planar surface 102 having at least one or more groove or perforation or a combination of both at its front end 107 and at least one or more of said groove or perforation or a combination of both 107 at its rear end, e) said at least one or more groove or perforation or combination of both 107 of both front and rear end may accommodate a screw and nut element 108 or an equivalent releasable tightening element, f) at least one linear bar 103 that is adaptable to be positioned along a vector angle relative to the linear center of said horizontal planar surface at said front end 105 or rear end 106 or both ends of said horizontal planar surface 102, g) said at least one linear bar 103 is releasably connectable onto said horizontal planar surface 102 by said screw and nut element 108 or equivalent releasable tightening element at said one or more groove or perforation or a combination of both 107 at said front and rear end, h) a rotatable sanding belt 104 centrally positioned on and through said horizontal planar surface, i) said rotatable sanding belt 104 is motor driven, j) said rotatable sanding belt 104 is rotatable perpendicularly to and through said horizontal planar surface 102, k) said rotatable sanding belt 104 is held within a removable protective housing element 109, l) said removable protective housing element 109 having at least one end that is open 110 and exposing the rough surface of said rotatable sanding belt 104, m) the angle by which said rotatable sanding belt passes through and bisects said horizontal planar surface is adjustable by adjustment of an angularly adjustable plate 111 between zero to 180 degrees relative to said horizontal planar surface.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of this invention, the device may comprise the following features. A horizontal planar surface 102 may alternatively be referrable to as a work-station. The work-station may comprise any size and shape. The work-station provides a minimum surface area sufficient to hold each and all of the elements of this invention thereon. The work-station further provides a minimum surface area sufficient to enable and support the method of operation of this system, which would include holding at least one serrated blade 101 of an automatic hedgetrimmer device while the device 100 is in use. The overall features of said work-station having a flat planar surface with a straight, angular, or curved edge or any combination thereof. The flat planar surface of said work-station 102 essentially provides a platform surface with sufficient surface area space to hold at least the following elements: one or more guide elements 103, a rotatable sanding belt 104 held within a housing element, and at least one or more serrated blades 101 of an automatic hedge trimmer machine. The work station 102 may be large enough to hold additional elements such as removably attachable fixtures which include but is not limited to the following: light fixture 112, vacuum, vacuum hose, fan. The work-station platform 102 is preferably raised or raisable above the ground to a level that is at least at or above the height of an adult human person's knee level and preferably at least at or above the height of an adult human person's waist level. This would allow the user to operate the device 100 and system in either a standing or seated position. The height of said work-station platform 102 may alternatively be adjustable.

[0030] A preferred embodiment of the rotatable sanding belt element comprises a flexible sanding sheet 104 in the form of a round belt. Said round belt having a planar and linear shape, and with a left and a right side edge. The sanding sheet of said round belt has an external side that is rough and may further be embedded with sand-sized particles. The rear or back side of said sanding sheet round belt may be flat or smooth. The sanding sheet round belt 104 is thin and flexible and may comprise paper, metal, plastic, rubber, fibrous, or weaved materials or any combination thereof. This material supports the rough external surface that may include sand-sized particles embedded thereon. Said flexible sanding sheet round belt 104 is wrapped around three rotatable wheel or cylinder pulley elements 113, wherein at least one is motorized, forming a belt-driven system 113. The at least three rotatable wheel or cylinder pulley elements 113 are oriented in a triangular configuration wherein a first 118 and second pulley 119 element are positioned in parallel and horizontally above the surface of said work-station. Said third pulley element 121 is centrally positioned between said first and second pulley elements below the surface of said work-station. The sanding sheet round belt is wrapped around all three pulley elements and threaded through the planar surface of said work-station. The external surface of said sanding sheet round belt faces the opposite direction from the pulley elements and is exposed toward the ambient environment. Said sanding sheet round belt is removably attachable, disposable, and replaceable. The elements of this belt-driven system include said sanding sheet round belt 104, the three rotatable wheel or cylinder pulley elements 113, a motor drive connected to at least one of said three rotatable wheel or cylinder pulley elements, and are contained within a durable and partially enclosed protective housing 109.

[0031] Said protective housing having a front 115 and rear side 116, top side, and left and right sides. Said protective housing also having a bottom side 117 which may be the same as or continuous with the planar surface of said work-station table. An opening through said protective housing 109 is located at its front or rear sides and adjacently through the planar surface of said work-station table. Said first 118 and second 119 pulley elements are contained within said protective housing 109 wherein said first 118 and second 119 pulley elements are positioned at either ends of said protective housing towards its front 115 and rear 116 sides. Said sanding sheet round belt 104 is wrapped around said first 118 and second 119 pulley elements and threaded through the two openings of said work-station table at its front and rear sides to access and wrap around said third pulley element 121 underneath said work-station table 102. See, FIG. 6a.

[0032] An angularly adjustable plate 111 is positioned through at least one of said two openings of said work-station at its front or rear sides. See, FIG. 3. Said angularly adjustable plate having a width that is at least as wide as the width of said rotatable belt. Said angularly adjustable plate is preferably a durable solid material having a smooth surface that interfaces with said sanding belt. Said angularly adjustable belt may comprise any of the following hard, durable non-brittle materials or combinations thereof: plastic, bio-plastic, metal, wood, fiber composite, composite material, mineral based, glass, or organic and organic composite material. Said angularly adjustable plate 111 having a flat surface that is contactable with the backside of said sanding belt. The angle of said angularly adjustable plate may be changed and fixed into position at a preferred angular position above the surface of said work station. The surrounding perimeter shape of said angularly adjustable plate may comprise a linear, angular, or curved shape or any combination thereof. The angular adjustment of said angularly adjustable plate is enabled by a pivoting means which may lock into a fixed preferred position or unlocked to allow a change of position. Said pivoting means may be by any currently known technical means, including but not limited to rotation around a central rod or pin, a gear element, etc. The position of said angularly adjustable plate against the backside of said sanding belt pushes the sanding belt outward parallel to the same angular plane of said angularly adjustable plate. Such that the sandling belt protrudes forward at the predetermined angular position of said angularly adjustable plate. This enables the sanding belt to hone the serrated blade at a desired steepness. Said angularly adjustable plate 111 further provides a solid surface against which said sanding belt will be pushed against during the honing process. This provides a stable and secure leverage to the sanding belt to achieve a consistent honing effect when honing a serrated blade.

[0033] Said protective housing 109 further having a removable top portion. Said removable top portion 120 of said protective housing 109 comprising a plate 120 that is removably attachable to the top of said housing. When said plate 120 is removed, the internal space of said housing is exposed. The sanding belt 104 held therein would be exposed and accessible when said plate 120 is removed and the top of said housing 109 is in an open position. See, FIGS. 1 and 2. In such instance, the sanding belt 104 is contactable by an external item outside of said housing, such as said serrated blade. Said serrated blade may be placed over the open space of said housing in direct contact with said sanding belt. When in operating mode, the sanding belt may further hone said serrated blade as it is laid over said housing. This is advantageous for cleaning and removing debris attached to the side surface of said serrated blade.

[0034] A preferred embodiment of the guide element 103 of this invention comprises one or more linear bar elements 103. Said linear bar element 103 is composed of a durable hard material such as: plastic, bio-plastic, metal, wood, fiber composite, mineral based, glass, or organic and organic composite material. The linear bar element 103 is intended to stretch the length of the horizontal planar surface along its said front and rear ends and to either front and rear sides of said rotatable sanding belt element. Said linear bar may comprise two separate bars, wherein each of said two bars is positioned at the front end and rear end of said horizontal planar surface. Each of said two bars is angularly adjustable from the center cross-sectional vector axis of said rotatable sanding belt element on said horizontal planar surface. Alternatively, the angular adjustment of each linear bar of said two linear bars may be between 0 to 180 degrees along the horizontal plane of said horizontal planar surface. Each linear bar of said two linear bars having a distal end and a rear end. The distal end of either of said two linear bars is positioned closest to the external edge of said horizontal planar surface. The rear end of either of said two linear bars is positioned closest towards said rotatable belt element. A groove or perforation 107 that is embedded through said horizontal planar surface is located near the distal end and rear end of each of said two linear bars. Essentially, there are at least a total of three (3) grooves or perforations 107, alternatively referrable to as two pair units, embedded through said horizontal planar surface. Each groove or perforation is a track system whereby an individual linear bar is positioned over each pair unit of grooves or perforations at a preferred angle. The desired angle position is then locked in place by a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be of any known existing technology such as, but not limited to, a nut and screw mechanism 108. See, FIG. 5. According to a preferred embodiment of this invention, the preferred angle of each said two linear bars 103 are co-linear such that the two linear bars extend adjacently end to end along the same linear vector on said horizontal planar surface. The co-linear effect is enabled by the track system of said grooves or perforations 107, allowing separate angular adjustment of each of said two linear bars. The purpose of this feature is to provide a straight edge support for a long blade that is moved forward or rearward from the rotatable sanding belt element as it is being honed. See, FIGS. 1 and 2. Each linear bar element having a straight linear left and right side such that it provides a straight edge effect on its either sides. The preferred angular position of each of said two linear bars is based on the location where the surface of said rotatable belt meets the blade surface of the serrated blade. The set angle of said two linear bars will allow the user to achieve a consistent angle of contact between the rotatable sanding belt and each blade of said serrated blade. Each groove or perforation may comprise a single length of space that is linear, curved, or angled or a combination thereof. Alternatively, each groove or perforation may comprise a single hole among a series of adjacent holes that form a pattern of holes along a linear, curved, or angular path or a combination thereof. In this case, the hole should be large enough to receive a locking mechanism, such as but not limited to a screw and nut element. Alternatively yet, the groove or perforation may not necessarily pierce through the full thickness of the horizontal surface but rather, may comprise a partial groove therethrough. In such an embodiment, the locking mechanism may comprise a magnetic element wherein the linear bar may be locked in place by strong magnets on either sides of said linear bar and horizontal planar surface. Alternatively, the locking mechanism may utilize pneumatic pressure or vacuum pressure to hold said linear bar in place within each of said groove or perforation. Alternatively yet, instead of a groove or perforation on or through said horizontal surface, the surface may be continuously flat without a groove or perforation but rather alternatively provide some visual indicia of a predetermined location for attaching said guide element or linear bars thereon. The means of attaching said guide element or linear bars to said visual indicia of a predetermined location may be mechanical, pneumatic, or magnetic.

[0035] An alternative embodiment of said guide element may comprise a plurality of raised barriers that are either permanently attached to, removably attachable to, or adjustably attached to (or any combinations thereof) the top surface of said work-station. Said plurality of raised barriers of this alternative embodiment of said guide element may be pre-positioned at different locations on the top surface of said work-station or alternatively be removably attachable to different locations thereon. The method of removably attaching each said raised barrier of said plurality of raised barriers may be by any current known means in the art, including a peg and hole method, a nut and bolt method, a magnetic method, vacuum or suction pressure method, pneumatic method, etc. The directional orientation of each of said plurality of raised barriers relative to the edge of said work-station may further be adjustable. Each said raised barrier of said plurality of raised barriers may comprise any length, shape, or width and is preferably no greater than the maximum dimensional length and width of said horizontal planar surface of said work-station. Each said raised barrier of said plurality of raised barriers serves the function of providing a buttress and support for which a serrated blade would rest against during the honing process. The effect of the barrier is to maintain the serrated blade in a pre-determined stationary position and orientation on said work-station during the honing process.

[0036] The method of this invention comprises the following broad steps: adjusting the guide elements to meet the dimensional parameters of said serrated blade, adjusting the angular adjustment plate to a preferred angle, positioning said serrated blade against said guide elements and against said rotatable belt, honing said serrated blade against said rotatable sanding belt.

[0037] Said serrated blade of an automatic hedge trimmer having two flat surfaces, referred to herein as a first flat side and a second flat side. Said serrated blade further having two opposing serrated edges, a first 122 and second edge 123, along its length. Each of said two serrated edges having a plurality of individual teeth 124 each separated by a gap space therebetween. Said teeth may be alternatively referrable in singular form as an individual tooth or as teeth in plural form. Each tooth of said plurality of teeth is separated by a space-gap 125 therebetween. Each tooth of said plurality of teeth is preferably equally shaped with equal dimensional features. Each individual tooth is equal distance from an adjacent tooth of said plurality of teeth along a given edge of said two edges of said serrated blade. The space-gap 125 between each adjacent individual tooth of said plurality of teeth on a given side of said serrated blade is of the same size and dimension. The perimeter edge of each individual tooth may be rounded or angular in shape with a forward side 126 and a rearward side 127. Either the forward side 126 or rearward side 127 or both forward and rearward sides of each individual tooth are beveled 128 at an angle to create a sharp edge. The external side of the perimeter edge of each individual tooth faces towards the external environment away from the center of said serrated blade, and may or may not be beveled. The beveled feature 128 of the forward or rearward sides of each individual tooth are uniform in each of their angle, shape, and dimension. The beveled feature 128 of each said individual tooth is further located only on one of either said first flat side or second flat side. The beveled features (angle, shape, dimension) of each individual tooth are mirror aspects of said first and second edges of each said serrated blade such that the features along the first edge are equal opposite features of those along the second edge.

[0038] Said method of this invention comprising the following steps. The method of 1) adjusting the guide elements to fit and meet the parameters of the beveled features of either the forward or rearward side of an individual tooth of said first or second edge (see, FIGS. 4a), 2) adjusting the angular adjustment plate to a preferred angle, 3) honing said individual tooth of fitted edge against the rotating sanding belt, 4) adjusting the guide element to fit and meet the parameters of the beveled features of the forward or rearward side of an individual tooth of an opposing edge (see, FIGS. 4b), 6) adjusting the angular adjustment plate to a preferred angle, 5) honing the individual tooth of said fitted edge.

[0039] When adjusting the guide elements to meet the parameters of the beveled features of a forward or rearward side of said first or second edge of said serrated blade, the two linear bars (or alternatively the plurality of raised barriers) are adjusted to follow a colinear vector path such that either said first or second edge of said serrated blade will flushly abut the linear bar or raised barriers for at least half or more of the length of said serrated blade. See, FIGS. 4a and 4b. Said linear bar serves as a barrier or guard rail and a guide for said serrated blade, maintaining said serrated blade in a desired position on said work-station surface at a desired angle or pitch. According to a preferred embodiment, said desired angle or pitch of said serrated blade is in a position where at least one or more of the individual tooth at their rearward or forward sides rests flushly against the wide surface of said sanding belt at the open end of said housing element. The angular adjustment plate behind said sanding belt may be adjusted and fixed in place at a desired angle for honing the side of said individual tooth that is abutting the sanding belt. The sanding belt and the overall device is not in an operating mode while the guide element and the angular adjustment plates are being adjusted into the preferred position. The guide element (either the two linear bars or their alternative embodiments by manner of raised barriers) should be positioned facing the side of said serrated blade that is being honed such that the serrated blade may be freely pushed and pulled forward and backward from the rotating belt without obstruction during honing operation.

[0040] Having fully described at least one embodiment of the present invention, other equivalent or alternative methods according to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention has been described by way of summary and illustration. The specific embodiments disclosed in the above drawings are not intended to be limiting. Implementations of the present invention with various different configurations are contemplated as within the scope of the present invention. The invention is thus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0026]While the foregoing specification illustrates and describes exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements, thereof, without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0027]FIGS. 1 through 7 provides a preferred embodiment of this invention, which relates to a device 100 and method for honing the serrated blade 101 of an automatic hedgetrimmer device. The device enables an operator of ordinary skill level to hone a variety of serrated blades 1...

Claims

1. I claim a device for honing a serrated blade of an automatic hedge trimming tool, Said device comprising the following elements:a horizontal planar surface,said horizontal planar surface having a front end and a rear end,a guide element,said guide element is adjustable,a rotatable sanding belt centrally positioned on and through said horizontal planar surface,said rotatable sanding belt is attached to a belt drive,an angularly adjustable plate in contact with the back side of said rotatable sanding belt.

2. The device of claim 1 wherein said horizontal planar surface having at least one or more groove or perforation at its front end and at least one or more of said groove or perforation at its rear end.

3. The device of claim 1 wherein said guide element comprises at least one linear bar that is removably attachable to said horizontal planar surface.

4. The device of claim 1 wherein said guide element comprises at least two co-linear bars.

5. The device of claim 1 wherein said guide element is removably attachable to said horizontal planar surface.

6. A method for honing a serrated blade of an automatic hedge trimmer tool by utilizing the honing device of claim 1 as follows:adjusting the guide elements to meet the dimensional parameters of said serrated blade, adjusting the angular adjustment plate to a preferred angle, positioning said serrated blade against said guide elements and against said rotatable belt, honing said serrated blade against said rotatable sanding belt.

Images