Multi-station power sharpener

Abstract

A sharpening system includes a first sharpening station and a second sharpening station. The first sharpening station includes a horizontal blade guide or blade fixture and an abrasive belt with a contact surface set at the desired angle relative to the horizontal blade guide or blade fixture. The second sharpening station includes an abrasive or stropping disc mounted to a drive shaft and at least one blade guide surface adjacent to the abrasive or stropping disc.

Description

MULTI-STATION POWER SHARPENERBACKGROUND

[0001] Blade sharpening systems play an important role in maintaining the cutting efficiency and longevity of various blades, ranging from kitchen knives to industrial cutting tools. These systems are designed to restore the sharpness of blades by removing dull edges and imperfections, enhancing the overall performance and safety of cutting instruments. Conventional blade sharpening systems range from manual stone or rod sharpeners to powered systems with rotating belts or discs.

[0002] One category of blade sharpening systems is progressive power sharpeners. Progressive power sharpeners typically include multiple or interchangeable sharpening elements that have different abrasive levels to progressively sharpen or refine the cutting edge of a blade. Some common progressive power sharpeners include two or more powered stages of progressive abrasives operating in a common form (such as a selection of discs mounted on a common motor driven shaft). In other cases, progressive power sharpeners includes a powered sharpening station (such as a pair of powered discs) to perform coarse sharpening and a manual sharpening station (such as a pull through ceramic). In still other cases, a progressive power sharpener includes a single sharpening station with user changeable abrasives (such as user installed abrasive belts).

[0003] While prior progressive power sharpeners provide various benefits over solely manual sharpening systems, existing progressive power sharpeners lack sufficient versatility and are not well suited to handle different styles of blades. Accordingly, there remains remove for improvement in the area of progressive power sharpeners.

[0004] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one exemplary technology area where some embodiments described herein may be practiced.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] References will be made to embodiments of the disclosure, examples of which may be illustrated in the accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the disclosure is generally described in the context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure to these particular embodiments. Items in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0006] Figures 1-3 illustrate an example embodiment of a blade sharpening system.

[0007] Figures 4A-5B illustrate example uses of the blade sharpening system of Figures1-3.

[0008] Figures 6 and 7 illustrate an example embodiment of another blade sharpening system.

[0009] Figures 8-10 illustrate example embodiments of abrasive disc.

[0010] Figures 11 and 12 illustrate an example embodiment of another blade sharpening system.

[0011] Figures 13-17 illustrate an example embodiment of another blade sharpening system.

[0012] Figures 18 and 19 illustrate an example embodiment of another blade sharpening system.

[0013] Figure 20 illustrates an example embodiment of another blade sharpening system.

[0014] Figures 21-23 illustrate an example embodiment of another blade sharpening system.

[0015] Figures 24-28 illustrate an example embodiment of another blade sharpening system.

[0016] Figures 29-33B illustrate an example embodiment of another blade sharpening system.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The present disclosure is directed to progressive power sharpeners. Figures 1-3 illustrate an example embodiment of a progressive power sharpener 100 (as referred to as sharpener 100) that is a multi-station power sharpener. The sharpener 100 includes at least a first sharpening station 102 and a second sharpening station 104.

[0018] The first sharpening station 102 may include a horizontal blade guide 106 (also referred to as a guide surface or blade fixture) and an abrasive belt 108. The abrasive belt 108 may include a contact surface 110 that is configured to be contacted by a cutting edge of a blade during a sharpening procedure. The contact surface 110 and the horizontal blade guide 106 may be set at a desired angle relative to one another. In some embodiments, the angle between the contact surface 110 and the horizontal blade guide 106 is fixed at a set angle and in other embodiments the angle may be selectively adjustable (e.g.. by adjusting the orientation of the contact surface 110 and / or the horizontal blade guide 106). In some embodiments, the blade guide 106 comprises a reference surface upon or against which ablade may be positioned to position the blade (and particularly the cutting edge thereof) in a desired position / orientation relative to the abrasive belt 108. In other embodiments, the blade guide 106 may take other forms, such as a fixture or clamp. For instance, the blade guide may take the form of a blade clamp similar or identical to those disclosed in International Application No. PCT / US23 / 85710, filed December 12, 22023, entitled Modular Sharpener for Edged Tools, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0019] As best seen in Figure 3, the first sharpening station 102 may also include pulleys 112, 114 around which the abrasive belt 108 may be trained. At least one of the pulleys 112, 114 may be actively rotated or driven to rotate the abrasive belt 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the pulley 112 is connected to a drive shaft 116. The drive shaft 116 is connected to a motor 118. The motor 118 is configured to rotate the drive shaft 116. Rotation of the drive shaft 116 rotates the pulley 112, which in turn rotates the abrasive belt 108.

[0020] The first sharpening station 102 may also include tracking and / or tensioning mechanisms as desired. For instance, as shown in Figure 3 the pulley 112 may include tracking ridges 118 that guide the abrasive belt 118 as it rotate. As also shown in Figure 3, a tensioning mechanism 120 may be included to provide a desired level of tension to the abrasive belt 108.

[0021] The second sharpening station 104 may include an abrasive disc 122 and at least one blade guide surface 124 adjacent the disc 122. As shown, each blade guide surface 124 may be oriented at an acute angle relative to a side surface of the disc 122. The disc 122 may be actively driven or rotated. In the illustrated embodiment, the disc 122 is mounted to the drive shaft 116, and is thus driven by the motor 118. In other embodiments, the disc 122 may be mounted to a different drive shaft and / or driven by a different motor.

[0022] The sharpener 100 may also include one or more controls (e.g., buttons, knobs, sliders, etc.). The controls may be used to control the operation(s) of the sharpener 100, such as the pow er, speed, direction, sharpening station, etc.).

[0023] As shown in Figures 1-3 and other embodiments herein, a progressive power sharpener may be a multi-station power sharpener that includes:• a first sharpening station that includes a horizontal (or nearly horizontal) blade guide, an abrasive belt supported by two or more pulley or supports, the belt including a segment adjacent the blade guide that is oriented at a first angle (e.g.. 5-70°) relative to the blade guide;• a second sharpening station comprising a disc mounted about a horizontal axis (such that the side surfaces of the disc are approximately vertical), and at least one blade guide adjacent to the disc and oriented at a second angle (e.g., 5-70°) relative to the disc; and• a drivetrain comprising one or more electric motors and drive system(s) to mechanically power the abrasive belt of the first sharpening station and the disc of the second sharpening station, each at a desired speed and direction.

[0024] Figures 4A-5B illustrate example steps in a sharpening process using the sharpener 100. The same or similar steps may be followed when using other sharpeners disclosed herein.

[0025] As show n in Figure 4A, during use of such the sharpener 100, a blade 126 to be sharpened may be positioned by the blade guide 106 of the first sharpening station 102. A first side of the blade 126 may be brought into contact with the segment of the abrasive belt 108 that is adjacent to the blade guide 106. While maintaining contact with the belt 108, the blade 126 is advanced (as shown by the arrow in Figure 4A) so that the length of a cutting edge is moved across the belt 108 to impart a first or coarse surface onto the first side of the blade 126.

[0026] As shown in Figure 5 A, a second side of the blade 126 may then be positioned in contact with one of the blade guide surfaces 124 of the second sharpening station 104. The first side of the blade 126 may be brought into contact with a side surface of the disc 122. While maintaining contact with the side of the disc 122, the blade 126 is advanced (as shown by the arrow in Figure 5 A) so that the length of the cutting edge is moved across the disc 122 to impart a second or fine surface onto the first side of the blade 126.

[0027] After completing the above-noted sharpening steps on the first side of the blade 126, the sharpening steps may be performed on a second side of the blade 126. For instance, as shown in Figure 4B, the second side of the blade 126 may be positioned on the blade guide 106 and brought into contact with the belt 108. The blade 126 may be advanced (as shown by the arrow in Figure 4A) across the belt 108 to impart a first or coarse surface onto the second side of the blade 126. As shown in Figure 5B, the first side of the blade 126 may then be positioned in contact with one of the blade guide surfaces 124 of the second sharpening station 104 and brought into contact with the disc 122. The blade 126 may be advanced (as shown by the arrow in Figure 5B) across the disc 122 to impart a second or fine surface onto the second side of the blade 126.

[0028] In some embodiments, the abrasive belt 108 and / or the abrasive disc 122 of the first and / or second sharpening stations 102, 104 may be supported by a rigid surface (e.g., platen) or unsupported. The abrasive belt 108 and / or the abrasive disc 122 of the first and second sharpening stations 102, 104 may be driven by a common drivetrain (e.g., motor, drive shaft, etc.) or by separate drivetrains or portions thereof. The sharpener 100 may include motor controls that may include sensors and / or programing to automatically adjust speed and / or rotation of the abrasive belt 108 and / or the disc 122. Such controls may include user selected variable speed and / or user controlled on / off switches (e g., foot switches).

[0029] The angle between the disc 122 and the blade guide 124 at the second sharpening station 104 may be equal to or greater than the angle between the belt 108 and the blade guide 106 of the first sharpening station 102. In some embodiments, the sharpening angles of the first and second sharpening stations 102, 104 may be independently adjustable. In other embodiments, the adjustments of the sharpening angles of the first and second sharpening stations 102, 104 may be dependent on one another.

[0030] In some embodiments, the first and second sharpening stations 102. 104 may use the same and / or different levels of abrasives and / or speeds (e.g., of the belt 108 and / or the disc 122) to achieve a desired progressive sharpening. For instance, the belt 108 and the disc 122 may have the same level of abrasive, but may rotate at different speeds to achieve the desired progressive sharpening. Alternatively, the belt 108 and the disc 122 may have different levels of abrasive, but may rotate at the same speeds. Still further, the belt 108 and the disc 122 may have different levels of abrasive and may rotate at different speeds.

[0031] As show n in Figures 4A and 4B, one unique aspect of some of the disclosed embodiments is that the cutting edge of the blade 126 may be visible to the user while engaging the abrasive in the first sharpening station 102, then oriented into a simplified position for subsequent (sharpening / honing) in the second sharpening station 104. The first sharpening station 102 permits the user to observe formation of the blade profile (e.g., the shape of the cutting edge along its length) and the formation of the cutting edge (e.g., by observing the formation of a burr along the edge when the surface being formed intersects the opposing (visible side) of the blade 126). This visibility provides a significant advantage by allowing the user increased control over the blade profile when shaping or reshaping a blade.

[0032] Once the blade is properly shaped at the first sharpening station 102, additional sharpening and honing steps can be performed at the second sharpening station 104, as shown in Figures 5 A and 5B, thereby providing an easier / faster process and orientation. Thesecond sharpening station 102 may also be used alone for subsequent sharpening of the blade.

[0033] The following discussion relates to various embodiments, features, aspects, or combinations thereof, of example multi-station power sharpeners. It will be appreciated that the features and aspects may be used independently from one another or may be incorporated in various combinations within a sharpening system. Thus, one or more features of any of the disclosed embodiments may be combined with one or more features of another disclosed embodiment as desired.

[0034] Figures 6 and 7 show side and front views, respectively, of a multi-station power sharpener 130. The sharpener 130 may be designed to sit on and be supported by a bench or other generally horizontal plane 131. Similar to the sharpener 100, the sharpener 130 may include a first sharpening station 132 and a second sharpening station 134. The first sharpening station 132 may include a first sharpening member 136 such as an abrasive belt routed around pulley 138, 140 or other supports (platens, pins, etc.). A segment 136a of the first sharpening member 136 may be positioned at a first angle a with respect to the generally horizontal plane 131. The first angle a may be selectively adjustable. The first sharpening station 132 may also include a first blade guide 142 configured to position a blade at a first sharpening angle p relative to the segment 136a. As described in more detail elsewhere herein, the first sharpening angle may be selectively adjustable.

[0035] The second sharpening station 134 may include a second sharpening member 144 with an abrasive surface 144a positioned at a second angle %. The second angle / may be with respect to a vertical plane 145. The second angle / may be selectively adjustable. The second sharpening station may also include a second blade guide 146 that is configured to position a blade at a second sharpening angle 8 to the abrasive surface 144a of the second sharpening member 144. The second sharpening angle 8 may be selectively adjustable.

[0036] The sharpener 130 may also include other components to facilitate the operation thereof. For instance, like the sharpener 100, the sharpener 130 may include a motor, a control system, and a drive train to drive the abrasive members 136. 144 of the first and second sharpening stations 132, 134.

[0037] The second sharpening member 144 shown in Figure 7 may be or include a disc with at least one generally flat planar abrasive side surface 144a. The second angle y (that indicates the orientation of the second sharpening member 144) may be parallel to the vertical plane 145. In some embodiments, the disc 144 may be flexible.

[0038] Figures 8-10 illustrate example embodiments of discs that may be used with the second sharpening stations 104. 134 of the sharpeners 100, 130 or other sharpeners disclosed herein.

[0039] As shown in Figure 8, a disc 150 may include a flexible substrate 152. The flexible substrate 152 may be formed of leather, synthetic materials, or fabric. The flexible substrate 152 may have a leather or synthetic strop 154 applied at least a portion of one or both opposing faces thereof. The leather or synthetic strop 154 may optionally include abrasives embedded therein or an abrasive applied thereto.

[0040] Figure 9 illustrates an example disc 160 that is formed of a flexible substrate 162 that may be formed of paper leather, synthetic materials, or fabric. All or portions of the flexible substrate 162 may be coated or embedded with abrasive materials.

[0041] The example disc 170 of Figure 10 may be or include a disc with at least one frustoconical or angled abrasive surface 172. In such an embodiment, the second angle % may be an acute angle formed between the vertical plane 145 and the frustoconical or angled abrasive surface 172.

[0042] Figures 11 and 12 illustrate another example embodiment of a multi-station power sharpener 180. As shown in Figure 11, the sharpener 180 may be designed to sit on and be supported by a bench or other generally horizontal plane 181. The sharpener 180 may include a first sharpening station 182 and a second sharpening station 184. The first sharpening station 182 may include a first sharpening member 186 such as an abrasive belt routed around one or more supports (pulleys, platens, pins, etc.). As with the segment 136a, a segment 186a of the first sharpening member 186 may be positioned at a first angle a. The first angle a may be with respect to the horizontal plane 181. The first angle a may be selectively adjustable.

[0043] Figure 11 illustrates a front or first side view of the second sharpening station 184 and Figure 12 illustrates a rear or second side view thereof. The second sharpening station 184 may include a sharpening member 188 that is or includes second abrasive belt that is routed around pulleys 190 or other supports.

[0044] The second sharpening station 184 may also include a blade guide surface 192 adjacent to a segment 188a of the sharpening member 188. In some embodiments, such as shown in Figure 12. the second sharpening member 188 may include two sharpening segments 188a, one on each side of a vertical plane 194. The second sharpening station 184 may also include two blade guides 192, one adjacent to each of the two sharpening segments188a. A sharpening angle 8 may be formed between each of the blade guides 192 and the adjacent segment 188a.

[0045] In some embodiments, the sharpening angle 8 may be selectively adjustable. For instance, the second sharpening station 184 may include an adjustment mechanism 196 that can be used to selectively adjust the sharpening angle 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 196 includes a knob 198. Rotation of the knob 198 causes one or both of the blade guides 192 to pivot or rotate relative to the adj acent segment 188a, thereby altering the sharpening angle 8.

[0046] Figures 13-17 illustrate aspects of a portion of a powered sharpener 200. The illustrated portion may be a first sharpening station 202 of a multi-station powered sharpener or a sharpening station of a single station powered sharpener.

[0047] The illustrated embodiment includes a blade guide 204 that is configured to support / position a to-be-sharpened blade. The illustrated embodiment also includes an abrasive belt 206 routed around pulleys 208, 210, 212 or other supports. A segment 206a of the abrasive belt 206 that is adjacent the blade guide 204 is oriented at a sharpening angle P relative to a plane established by the blade guide 204.

[0048] The sharpening angle may be adjustable by moving one or more of the pulleys 208, 210, 212 relative to the blade guide 204. For instance, as can be seen in a comparison between Figures 13 and 14, adjustments to the sharpening angle p may be made by moving one or more of the pulleys 208. 210, 212 relative the blade guide 204 and / or the horizontal plane 201. In the design shown, the pulley 212 is mounted to a support carrier 214. The support carrier 214 is movable to move the pulley 212 to a desired position to establish the sharpening angle p between the belt segment 206a (the segement of the belt 206 between the pulleys 208. 212) and the blade guide surface 204. For instance, the support carrier 214 may be moved, tilted, or pivoted so as to alter the position of the pulley 212. As the position of the pulley 212 moves, the orientation of the segment 206a relative to the blade guide 204 changes, thereby changing the the sharpening angle p.

[0049] In some embodiments, an angle indicator 215 may be included to identify the sharpening angle P that the first sharpening station 202 set at. The angle indicator 215 may include a plurality of angle identifiers and apointer. As the the support carrier 214 is moved, tilted, or pivoted to alter the position of the pulley 212 and thus the angle between the segment 206a and the blade guide surface 204, the pointer may point to different angle identifiers, therey indicating the new adjusted sharpening angle p.

[0050] As can be seen in Figures 13 and 14 and further illustrated in Figures 15A and 15B, the sharpening station 202 may include an edge guide 216. As shown in Figures 15A and 15B, the edge guide 216 may be selectively deployed (e.g., rotated or otherwise moved from a stored position (Figure 15B) to an active position (Figure 15A)). The deployable edge guide 216 may be used with unsupported belt segments 206a to establish the desired belt deflection relative to the blade guide 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the edge guide 216 may be connected to the support carrier 214 such that movement of the support carrier 214 results in a similar movement of the edge guide 216. Additionally, the edge guide 216 may include a notch 216a that is configured to receive a portion of a blade therein to facilitate positioning of the blade.

[0051] As can also be seen in Figure 15B, the sharpening station 202 may include one or more platens 218 or other belt supports. The platen 218 may be selectively moved into engagement with a backside of the segment 206a to support the segment 206a during a sharpening operation. In some embodiments, the platen 218 is selectively movable so as to provide different levels of support to the segment 206a. While supported by the platen 218, the segment 206a may not require the use of the edge guide 216. However, the edge guide 216 may still be used to enhance blade stability’ when sharpening.

[0052] Figures 16-17 illustrate a portion of a powered sharpener 230. The illustrated portion may be a first sharpening station 232 of a multi-station powered sharpener or a sharpening station of a single station powered sharpener.

[0053] The illustrated embodiment includes an abrasive belt 234 routed around two or more supports 236 (only one shown). At least one of the supports 236 is a pulley (referred to as pulley 236). A blade guide 238 is positioned adjacent to the pulley 236 and includes a blade guide surface 240 that is configured to support and position a blade relative to the belt 234 during a sharpening procedure. In some embodiments, the blade guide surface 240 extends at a sharpening angle |3 relative to a segment 234a the abrasive belt 234 that extends tangent to the pulley 236.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the blade guide 238 includes a mounting portion 242 that extends beyond the front of the belt 234 and the pulley 236 such that the blade guide surface 240 and the surfaces adjacent the blade guide surface 240 do not overlap the sides (width) of the belt 234. Such an arrangement may provide clearance for handles and other blade features during sharpening. In other words, the width W of the blade guide 238 and / or the blade guide mounting portion 242 is / are narrower than the belt 234 so as to enable the entire width of the blade 234 to engage with the belt 234 without interference betw eenthe blade guide 238 and / or the blade guide mounting portion 242 and the blade's handle, finger guards, etc.

[0055] Conventional blade guides included on previous belt sharpeners mounted around one or both sides of the belt. The flange or flanges required to locate the guide surface of such belt sharpeners caused interference when sharpening blades where the cutting edge extended near a pivot or handle (such as a standard kitchen knife). The guide of the present embodiment allows access to both edges of the belt 234. thereby permitting tools to access the full cutting edge on both sides of a blade.

[0056] Figures 18 and 19 illustrate an embodiment of a powered sharpener 250 that may include one or more sharpening stations. In the illustrated embodiment, the powered sharpener includes a sharpening station 252 having an abrasive belt 254 positioned at a first angle (e.g., relative to horizontal). The abrasive belt 254 includes an unsupported belt segment 254a. A blade guide 256 is positioned adjacent to the unsupported belt segment 254a. The blade guide 256 includes an angle guide surface 258 that is configured to support a blade 260 at a sharpening angle relative to the unsupported belt segment 254a. Additionally, an edge guide 262 is configured to position a cutting edge 264 of the blade 260 at a deflection depth relative to a static position 266 of the unsupported belt segment 254a. In some embodiments, the edge guide 262 is a visual / optical reference 268 that does not have mechanical contact with the blade 260 or cutting edge 264 thereof.

[0057] For instance, as shown in Figures 18 and 19. the visual / optical reference 268 is a guide line that is projected onto the belt. For instance, in some embodiments, the guide line may be an optical mark / line generated by a laser or light 270 and projected onto the unsupported belt segment 254a. In other embodiments, the guide line may be an optical mark / line generated by the contrast between a shadow and lighted surface of the belt via a partially obstructed light above or adjacent the unsupported belt segment 254a.

[0058] The guide line is visible and stable as the belt 254 rotates and is deflected by the blade 260 during the shaping / sharpening processes. In some emboidmnets, the guide line is a line generated across the width of the belt 254. In operation, as shown in Figure 19, the user places the blade 260 against the angle guide surface 258 and advances the blade 260 until the cutting edge 264 is in contact with, abutts, or is positioned at or adjacent to the optical guide line 268. This provides the user with both the desired angle and the desired deflection (force) during the operation.

[0059] The visual / optical reference may be particulary beneficial when shaping and initial sharpening of a blade 260 on an unsupported belt 254. The visual / optical referenceprovides the desired position of the cutting edge 264 (and belt deflection) as the profile of the blade 260 is shaped and the cutting edge 264 is formed. The user can focus their eyes on the area of contact with the belt without a physical edge guide / stop blocking the visibility of the cutting edge 264. This combined with the above mentioned narrow blade guide may provide greatly improved blade access from both sides and visibility of the cutting edge while in shaping / sharpening process.

[0060] Figure 20 illustrates a sharpener 280 that may include one or more sharpening stations. For instance, a first sharpening station 282 may include a belt sharpening station, a second sharpening station 284 may include a MicroForge member 284a, and a third sharpening station 286 may include a disc sharpening station. The stations 282, 284, 286 may be employed in different orders of operation / functions. For instance, a three stage sharpening process may employ the third sharpening station 286 with a coarse disc first in the process for shaping the cutting edge of a blade, the MicroForge member 284s of the second sharpening station 284 may then be used for forging small recesses into the cutting edge, and then the first sharpening station 282 may be used with a leather stropping belt for refining the cutting edge.

[0061] Figures 21-23 illustrate a modular abrasive belt sharpener 290 with user selectable platens 292a, 292b, contact wheels 294a, 294b, and blade guides 296a, 296b. The sharpener 290 includes an abrasive belt 298 that is configured to sharpen a blade. The platens 292a, 292b may be removed (e.g., Figure 23) or replaced with a flat surface platen 292a (Figure 21) or shaped platen 292b (Figure 22). The flat or shaped surfaces of the platens 292a, 292b may act as support surfaces for the belt 298. The support surfaces may be approximately tangent to adjacent belt supports (such as pulleys or contact wheels 294a, 294b). The shape of the surfaces of the platen 292a, 292b may be selected depending on, for example, the angle and / or profile desired for the cutting edge of the blade.

[0062] The blade guides 296a, 296b are replaceable and / or adjustable relative to the belt 298 and / or contact wheels 294a, 294b. For instance, as shown in Figures 21 and 22, the blade guide 296a may be moved in or out so as to be closer to (Figure 21) or further from (Figure 22) the belt 298 and / or the contact wheels 294a, 294b.

[0063] The blade guides 296a, 296b have support surfaces 296a’, 296b’ that are configured to support a blade thereon in a desired orientation during a sharpening operation. As can be seen in Figures 21-23, the support surfaces 296a’, 296b’ are oriented at different angles relative to one another. The blade guides 296a, 296b may be interchangeable so that a support surface with a desired angle can be used. The blade guides 296a, 296b may bemoved or replaced to adjust the distance to the belt 298 and / or compensate for and / or change the sharpening angle as a result of which contact wheel 294a, 294b and / or platen 292a, 292b, if any, is used.

[0064] The contact wheels 294a, 294b may act as pulleys around which the belt 298 is trained. In some embodiments, the contact wheels 294a, 294b may also act as support surfaces for sharpening on the belt 298. For instance, with the configuration of Figure 23, the contact wheel 294b may act as a support surface underneath the portion of the belt 298 that is contacted by a blade during a sharpening operation. The contact wheels 294a, 294b may be selectively interchanged.

[0065] Figures 24-27B illustrate a powered sharpener 300 that includes a first sharpening station 302 and a second sharpening station 304. The first sharpening station 302 includes at least one blade reference surface 306 (the illustrated embodiment includes blade reference surfaces 306a, 306b) and an abrasive belt 308. The belt is routed around two or more supports 310 (e.g., pulleys 310a, 310b). In the illustrated embodiment, the belt includes a first belt segment 308a. a second belt segment 308b, and a third belt segment 308c. As shown in Figure 25, the first belt segment is associated with and oriented at a first sharpening angle a relative to the blade reference surface 306a. The second belt segment 308b may be associated with and oriented at a second sharpening angle relative to the blade reference surface 306a as shown in Figure 25. As shown in Figure 27B. the second belt segment 308b may be associated with and oriented at a sharpening angle relative to the blade reference surface 306b. As shown in Figures 25 and 27A, the third belt segment 308c may be associated with and oriented at a third sharpening or grind angle [3 relative to the blade reference surface 306b. In some embodiments, the third belt segment 308c is oriented vertically and has a support surface 312 (e.g., platen) behind the third belt segment 308c.

[0066] The second sharpening station 304 includes an abrasive member 314, such as a disc wi th an abrasive surface, and one or more blade guides 316 adjacent and oriented at a sharpening angle relative to the abrasive member 314.

[0067] Generally, in use, a blade may be sharpened by first placing a side of the blade to be sharpened onto one of the blade reference surfaces 306a, 306b to establish the blade orientation parallel to the reference surface. Then the blade is moved into contact with the adjacent belt segment 308a, 308b, 308c (while maintaining the blade parallel to the reference surface). The blade is then advanced across the belt such that the entire cutting edge of the blade is sharpened. Then the blade orientation is changed so that the blade isplaced into contact with a blade guide 316 of the second sharpening station 304. The blade is brought into contact with and advanced across the second abrasive member 314 to sharpen the entire cutting edge. These operations may require several consecutive strokes at each station. The abrasives may be changed at either and / or both stations 302, 304 for a desired progression of grain sizes / types. These operations may be repeated on a second side of the blade to form the cutting edge.

[0068] As discussed in more detail below, the lengths of the first and / or second belt segments 308a, 308b, the angle a between the first belt segment 308a and the blade reference surface 306a, and / or the angle / of the second belt segment 308b relative to the blade reference surface 306a, (or the angle / ’of the second belt segment 308b relative to the blade reference surface 306b) may be adjustable by moving the belt support 310a relative to one or both of the blade reference surfaces 306a, 306b. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second belt segment 308a, 308b are unsupported in that there are no platens or support surfaces therebehind. In other embodiments, however, one or both of the belt segments 308a, 308b may have a platen or support surface therebehind.

[0069] In some embodiments, the adjustments to the lengths and / or angles of the first and / or second belt segments 308a, 308b can be made without the need for tools. For instance, as shown in Figures 26A-26B, the pulley 310a is supported about an axle 318 that extends beyond a width of the pulley 310a. The axle 318 engages a portion of a rocker 320. The engaged portion of the rocker 320 includes two or more saddles 322a, 322b that are configured to receive the axle 318 therein. Depending on which saddle 322a, 322b the axle 318 is positioned within will determine the length, angle, and / or tension on the first and / or second belt segments 308a, 308b (the selected saddle 322a, 322b may also determine a tension on the third belt segment 308c). The saddles 322a, 322b may be shaped, oriented, or otherwise configured such that the tension on the belt 308 applies a force to the pulley 310a and axle 318 to keep the axle 318 engaged with the desired saddle 322a, 322b during operation.

[0070] As shown in Figures 27A and 27B, the blade reference surface 306b may be part of a movable tool support 324. The movable tool support 324 may be movably connected to the frame 326 of sharpener 300 to allow' the blade reference surface 306b to be selectively moved along the length of the third belt segment 308c. As noted above, the blade reference surface 306b and the third belt segment 306c may form the sharpening or grind angle p. The angle may be betw een 45-90 degrees. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 27b. the movable tool support 324 may be moved so that the blade reference surface 306b is positionedadjacent to the second belt segment 308b and form the sharpening angle therewith. The sharpening angle may be between 0-45 degrees. In some embodiments, the tool support 324 may be movable along the length of the third belt segment 308c and beyond the pulley 310b such that the blade reference surface 306b is nearly adjacent to the second belt segment 308b.

[0071] As best seen in Figure 25, the first sharpening station 302 may include a gear drive adjustment mechanism that is configured to adjust the angles a, %, or / ’ of the first and / or second belt segments 308a, 308b relative to the blade reference surfaces 306a, 306b. In the illustrated embodiment, the pulley 310b is secured to the frame 326 of the sharpener 300 and is rotatable about a first axis. The pulley 310a is rotatable about a second axis. The pulley 310a is mounted on the rocker 320. The rocker 320 is secured to the frame 326 and is rotatable about the first axis. The rocker 320 also includes a gear 328. The gear 328 of the rocker 320 engages a gear 330 of an angle indicator 332. The angle indicator 332 includes a pointer or indicia for indicating an angle. The gear 330 of the angle indicator 332 also engages a gear 334 of an input shaft 336. The input shaft 336 includes a user knob or lever 338. A user can rotate the input shaft 336 via the knob or lever 338. Rotation of the input shaft 336 drives or rotates the angle indicator 332, which in turn drives or rotates the rocker 320 to the desired position such that the first and / or second belt segments 308a, 308b is / are at a desired angle relative to the blade reference surfaces 306a, 306b.

[0072] Rotation of the angle indicator 332 will cause the angle indicator 332 to identify or display an angle of the first and / or second belt segments 308a, 308b. In some embodiments, the angle indicator 332 and corresponding indicia on the frame 326 are positioned such that the angle is visible to the user during normal operation of the sharpener 300. Similarly, the user knob / lever 338 may be accessible to the user during normal operation of the sharpener 300.

[0073] As shown in Figure 24 and 28, the sharpener 300 may include a sharpness tester 350 for measuring and indicating relative blade sharpness. In some embodiments, the sharpness tester 350 may be a test module or cartridge that is removable from the sharpener 350. In some embodiments, the sharpness tester 350 may be a standalone unit that is not associated with a sharpener.

[0074] In some embodiments, the sharpness tester 350 includes a mechanical tester 352 that is configured to measure the force to cut through a test media (e.g., via a plunge cut). In some embodiments, the sharpness tester 350 includes a mechanical tester 354 that is configured to measure the distance to cut through a test media under a consistent spring biasforce (e.g., via a slicing cut). In some embodiments, the sharpness tester 350 may include mechanisms for testing both plunge and slicing cuts.

[0075] In some embodiments, the sharpness tester 350 may include an electrical / electronic indicator or measurement 356 of the force / distance at which test media of the sharpness tester 350 was cut. In some embodiments, the test media that is cut is stored in the sharpness tester 350 or in the sharpener 300 in a roll or strip / rod form to help ensure against material degradation and to permit the user to advance test media on subsequent tests.

[0076] Attention is now directed to Figures 29-33B, which illustrate aspects of a benchtop modular powered tool sharpener 400. As shown, the sharpener 400 may include a powered base or power unit 402. The power unit 402 may include one or more power take offs 404a, 404b (PTO) and one or more mounting features 406a, 406b. One or more removable sharpening modules 408a, 408b, 408c may be selectively mounted to the one or more mounting features 406a, 406b on the power unit 402 via corresponding mounting features 410a, 410b, 410c. Each of the removable sharpening modules 408a, 408b, 408c may include a sharpening member 412a, 412b, 412c (wheel, disc, belt) driven by one of the PTOs 404a, 404b. Similar to the other embodiments herein, each of the removable sharpening modules 408a, 408b, 408c may include one or more blade locating features (e.g., guide / reference surface, clamp) configured to position a blade at a sharpening angle relative to a surface of the sharpening member 412a, 412b. 412c.

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment, the PTO 404a and the mounting feature 406a are configured to have a first of the removable sharpening modules 408a, 408b, 408c associated therewith and the PTO 404b and the mounting feature 406b are configured to have a second of the removable sharpening modules 408a, 408b, 408c associated therewith.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the sharpening modules 408a, 408b are disc module (e.g., the sharpening members 412a, 412b thereof are abrasive discs) and the sharpening module 408c is a belt module (e.g., the sharpening member 412c thereof is an abrasive belt). The sharpening modules 408a. 408b, 408c may be designed for various tools, such as kitchen knives, knives and tools, scissors, etc.

[0079] As shown in Figures 30A and 30B, for example, the removable sharpening modules 408a, 408b, 408c may be interchangeably mounted to the power unit 402. For instance, as shown, the sharpening modules 408a and 408b may be alternately mounted to mounting feature 406a to be powered by the PTO 404a. Similarly, as illustrated, the sharpening module 408c may be mounted to the mounting feature 406b in multiple ways.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the sharpening module 408c is a convertible belt module. The sharpening module 408c may also be referred to as a cassette 408c. The cassette 408c includes the abrasive belt 412c routed around two or more supports 414 (e.g., pulleys). The mounting feature 410c of the cassette 408c is configured to selectively attach the cassette 408c to the power unit 402 in at least the two positions shown in Figures 30A and 3 OB. The first position is a blade grinding position and the second position is a knife sharpening position.

[0081] The cassette 408c is configured to have a blade grinding guide 416 and a sharpening guide 418 mounted thereto. For instance, as shown in Figure 30A, the cassette 408c may have the blade grinding guide 416 mounted thereto when the cassette 408c is connected to the power unit 402 in the first position. Similarly, as shown in Figure 30B. the cassette 408c may have the sharpening guides 418 mounted thereto when the cassette 408c is connected to the power unit 402 in the second position.

[0082] As best seen in Figure 31, the cassette 408c includes a first belt segment 420 on a first side of the pulley 414 and an opposing second belt segment 422 on a second side of the pulley 414. The second position of the cassette 408c is configured to position the first and second belt segments 420 ,422 symmetrically about a vertical plane through which an axis of the pulley 414 lies.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the sharpening guide 418 comprises a first guide 424 adjacent to the first belt segment 420 and an opposing second guide 426 adjacent the second belt segment 422. In some embodiments, such as that illustrated in Figure 32A and 32B, the guides 424, 426 are selectively adjustable relative to the belt segments 420, 422, respectively, such that guide angles formed therebetween are adjustable. In some embodiments, the angles of the guides 424, 426 are symmetrically adjustable about the vertical / center plane relative to the adjacent belt segments 420, 422.

[0084] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 32A and 32B, the angles of the guides 424, 426 may be adjusted via a geared adjustment mechanism 430. The geared adjustment mechanism 430 may include a frame 431, a user knob 432 connected to a drive gear 434, a first driven gear 436 connected to the guide 424 and a second driven gear 438 connected to the guide 426. Additionally, the geared adjustment mechanism 430 may also include an angle indicator 440 and indicia 442 located on the knob 432 and the frame 431, respectively. The adjustment mechanism 430 may also include a detent feature for audible and / or tactile feedback at each division of angle.

[0085] In operation, a user may rotate the knob 432, which will turn the drive gear 434. The drive gear 434 will drive each of the driven gears 436, 438 such that each guide 424, 426 changes its angle relative to the adj ecent belt segments 420, 422 symmetricaly about the vertical plane.

[0086] Each of the guides 424, 426 may also be independently removable to increase access to the belt segments 420, 422 and / or to allow for the replacement or cleaning of the guide surfaces. The guides 424. 426 and the geared adjustment mechanism 430 form a guide assembly that is user removable from the remaining sharpening structure 400.

[0087] As shown in Figures 33A and 33B, the cassette 408c may include a belt tensioning assembly 450 that is configured to apply tension to the abrasive belt 412c. In the illustrated embodiment, the abrasive belt 412c is configured to be routed around a pulley 452. The pulley 452 is rotatably mounted on a swing tensioner 454. The swing tensioner 454 is rotatably connected to the frame 431 such that the swing tensioner 454 can be selectively moved between a tensioning position (Figure 33 A) and a release position (Figure 33B). In the tensioning position, the swing tensioner 454 is configured to apply tension to the abrasive belt 412c. A tensioning force may be applied to the swing tensioner 454 to bias the swing tensioner 454 tow ards and hold the swing tensioner 454 in the tensioning position. The tensioning force may be applied by a biasing member 456 (e.g., a spring) disposed betw een the swing tensioner 454 and the frame 431.

[0088] The swing tensioner 454 may be selectively moved from the tensioning position to the release position by pivoting the swing tension 454 towards the interior of the cassette 408c. Moving the swing tensioner 454 to the release position can reduce the tension on the abrasive belt 412c, which can allow- for the abrasive belt 412c to be removed and replaced.

[0089] The belt tensioning assembly 450 may include a locking assembly 460 that is configured to selectively secure the swing tensioner 454 in the release position (e.g., while the belt 412c is being changed). The locking assembly 460 may include a first detent feature 462 disposed on / in a surface of the swing tensioner 454. The locking assembly 460 may also include a lock button 464 that is mounted to the frame 431. The lock button 464 may include a second detent feature 466 that is configured to selectively mate with the first detent feature 462. The lock button 464 may be biased such that the second detent feature 466 tends to engage the first detent feature 462 when the detent features 462, 466 are brought into alignment.

[0090] Moving the swing tensioner 454 to the release position may bring the first detent feature 462 into alignment and engagement with the second detent feature 466. Whenengaged together, the first and second detent features 462, 466 are configured to hold the swing tensioner in the release position, thereby allowing removal / installation of the belt 412c around the pulley 452. The lock button 464 is configured to be pressed to disengage the detent features 462, 466 and allow the biasing member 456 to rotate the swing tensioner 454 to the tensioning position in which the pulley 452 engages and tensions the belt 412c.

[0091] In light of the above, it will be appreciated that multi-station sharpeners as disclosed herein may provide various benefits and advantages over prior sharpening systems. For instance, a powered abrasive belt configured for engagement by a blade that is held approximately horizontal may be desirable for shaping or changing the shape of the cross section and / or profile of a blade. This orientation may minimize the guide surfaces required to aid in positioning the blade, maximize user visibility of the profile and cutting edge during the operation, and provide unobstructed access for long blades and complicated blade profiles.

[0092] Similarly, a powered abrasive belt configured for engagement by a blade at an acute angle to vertical may be desirable for fast sharpening through fine stropping. This sharpening orientation may be desirable when sharpening curved blades, especially those with concave profiles (a.k.a. recurve blades). This sharpening arrangement may be desirable for presenting both sides of the blade on opposing segments of a belt while the blade remains in the same / similar orientation per side.

[0093] As described herein, some embodiments include at least two different sharpening stations. A first station includes a horizontal blade orientation and an abrasive belt at an acute angle to a horizontal guide. A second station includes an approximately vertical blade orientation and either a powered abrasive belt or disc(s) with contact surfaces at an acute angle to a vertical plane. This provides shaping / profile advantages on the first (coarse) operation(s) and fast / easy sharpening on the second operation(s).Conclusion

[0094] While certain embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, with reference to specific configurations, parameters, components, elements, etcetera, the descriptions are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention.

[0095] Furthermore, it should be understood that for any given element of component of a described embodiment, any of the possible alternatives listed for that element or component may generally be used individually or in combination with one another, unless implicitly or explicitly stated otherwise.

[0096] In addition, unless otherwise indicated, numbers expressing quantities, constituents, distances, or other measurements used in the specification and claims are to be understood as optionally being modified by the term '‘about” or its synonyms. When the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” or the like are used in conjunction with a stated amount, value, or condition, it may be taken to mean an amount, value or condition that deviates by less than 20%, less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, or less than 0.01% of the stated amount, value, or condition. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0097] Any headings and subheadings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims.

[0098] It will also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” do not exclude plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, an embodiment referencing a singular referent (e.g., “widget”) may also include two or more such referents.

[0099] Further, unless otherw ise specified, the use of ordinal adjectives, such as “first”, “second”, and “third”, merely indicate that different instances of similar objects are being referred to and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking or in any other manner. Thus, for instance, what is referred to in one embodiment or claim as being a “first” element or feature may be referred to in another embodiment or claim as being a “second” element or feature.

[0100] It will also be appreciated that embodiments described herein may also include properties and / or features (e.g.. ingredients, components, members, elements, parts, and / or portions) described in one or more separate embodiments and are not necessarily limited strictly to the features expressly described for that particular embodiment. Accordingly, the various features of a given embodiment can be combined with and / or incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, disclosure of certain features relative to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting application or inclusion of said features to the specific embodiment. Rather, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can also include such features.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A sharpening system, comprising: a first sharpening station, comprising: a substantially horizontal blade guide or blade fixture; and an abrasive belt with a contact surface set at the desired angle relative to the horizontal blade guide or blade fixture; a second sharpening station, comprising: an abrasive or stropping disc mounted to a drive shaft; at least one blade guide surface adjacent to the abrasive or stropping disc; and an electric motor with controls.

2. The sharpening system of claim 1, wherein the abrasive belt is supported by two or more supports and includes a belt segment adjacent the horizontal blade guide or blade fixture, the belt segment and the horizontal blade guide or blade fixture being forming a first angle.

3. The sharpening system of claim 2, wherein the first angle is between about 5-70°.

4. The sharpening system of claim 1, wherein the stropping disc is mounted about a horizontal axis such that side surfaces of the disc are approximately vertical.

5. The sharpening system of claim 1, wherein the at least one blade guide is oriented at a second angle relative to the disc.

6. The sharpening system of claim 5, wherein the second angle is between about 5-70°.

7. The sharpening system of claim 1, further comprising a drivetrain, the drive train comprising one or more electric motors and one or more drive systems to mechanically power the abrasive belt of the first sharpening station and the disc of the second sharpening station, each at a desired speed and direction.

8. A sharpening system, comprising: a first sharpening station, comprising: a first sharpening member comprising an abrasive belt routed around two or more pulleys, a belt segment of the abrasive belt positioned at a first angle to horizontal; and a first blade guide configured to position a blade at a first sharpening angle to the belt segment; a second sharpening station, comprising:a second sharpening member with an abrasive surface positioned at a second angle to a vertical plane; a second blade guide configured to position the blade at a second sharpening angle to the abrasive surface of the second sharpening member; and an electric motor, control system, and drivetrain to drive the abrasive members of both the first and second sharpening stations.

9. The sharpening system of claim 8, wherein the second sharpening member comprises a disc with at least one flat planar abrasive side surface, wherein the second angle is parallel to a vertical plane.

10. The sharpening system of claim 9, wherein the disc may be flexible and constructed from a coated abrasive, a leather or synthetic strop, or a loose abrasive applied to a flexible disc substrate.

11. The sharpening system of claim 8, wherein the second sharpening member comprises at least one frustoconical abrasive surface, wherein the second angle is at an acute angle to the vertical plane.

12. The sharpening system of claim 8, wherein the first and / or second sharpening angles are selectively adjustable.

13. A sharpening system, comprising: a first sharpening station, comprising: a first sharpening member comprising an abrasive belt routed around two or more pulleys, a belt segment of the abrasive belt being positioned at a first angle to horizontal; and a second sharping station, comprising: a second sharpening member comprising a second abrasive belt routed around two or more pulleys; and a blade guide surface adjacent a segment of the second belt.

14. The sharpening system of claim 13, wherein the second sharpening member includes two sharpening segments on opposing sides of a vertical plane.

15. The sharpening system of claim 14, further comprising two blade guides, each adjacent to one of the two sharpening segments.

16. A sharpening system, comprising: a blade guide to support and / or position a blade to be sharpened; an abrasive belt routed around supports, a segment of the abrasive belt adjacent to the blade guide being oriented at a sharpening angle relative to a plane established by theblade guide, the sharpening angle being adjustable by moving one or more belt supports relative to the blade guide.

17. The sharpening system of claim 16, wherein adjustments to sharpening angle are made by moving one or more supports relative the blade guide and / or horizontal plane.

18. The sharpening system of claim 16, wherein one or more of the supports are mounted on a support carrier.

19. The sharpening system of claim 18, wherein the support carrier is selectively movable to vary the sharpening angle.

20. The sharpening system of claim 16, further comprising an edge guide that is selectively deployable adjacent to the segment of the abrasive belt.

21. A sharpening system, comprising: an abrasive belt routed around two or more supports, the abrasive belt comprising a sharpening segment; and a blade guide adjacent to at least one of the two or more supports, the blade guide having a blade guide surface extending at a sharpening angle relative to the sharpening segment, the blade guide including a mounting portion that extends beyond the blade guide surface, the blade guide surface and the mounting portion having widths that are narrower than a width of the sharpening segment.

22. A sharpening system, comprising: an abrasive belt positioned at a first angle to horizontal, the abrasive belt comprising an unsupported belt segment; a blade guide positioned adjacent to the unsupported belt segment, the blade guide comprising an angled guide surface configured to support a blade at a sharpening angle relative to the unsupported belt segment; and an edge guide configured to position a cutting edge of the blade at a deflection depth relative to the static position of the unsupported belt segment, the edge guide being a visual reference that is proj ected onto the unsupported belt segment.

23. The sharpening system of claim 22, wherein the edge guide comprises an optical reference line that is projected onto the unsupported belt segment.

24. The sharpening system of claim 23, wherein optical reference line comprises a laser projected on the supported belt segment.

25. The sharpening system of claim 23, wherein optical reference line comprises a shadow line on the supported belt segment.

26. A sharpening system, comprising: an abrasive belt routed around two or more supports, the abrasive belt comprising a sharpening segment; a blade guide positioned adjacent to the sharpening segment, the blade guide being selectively movable closer to and further from the sharpening segment, and an orientation of the blade guide being selectively changeable to alter an angle formed between the blade guide and the sharpening segment; and one or more platens selectively positionable behind the sharpening segment of the belt, the one or more platens being selectively movable towards and away from the sharpening segment of the belt to alter the angle formed betw een the blade guide and the sharpening segment.

27. A sharpening system, comprising: a first sharpening station, comprising: a blade reference surface; and an abrasive belt routed around a plurality’ of belt supports, a first belt segment being oriented at a first sharpening angle relative to the blade reference surface, the first sharpening angle being selectively adjustable by moving one or more of the belt supports relative to the blade reference surface; a second sharpening station, comprising: a sharpening member comprising a disc with an edge modifying surface; and a blade guide adjacent to the sharpening member at a second sharpening angle.

28. The sharpening system of claim 27, wherein the abrasive belt comprises a second segment that is nominally vertical.

29. The sharpening system of claim 28, further comprising a support surface behind the second segment of the abrasive belt.

30. The sharpening system of claim 28, further comprising a guide surface adjacent to and at a grind angle relative to the second belt segment.

31. A sharpening system, comprising: a frame; three or more pulleys, one of the pulleys being supported on an axle that extends beyond a width of the pulley, the axle engaging a portion the frame;an abrasive belt routed about the three or more pulleys, a first segment of the belt being an unsupported belt segment between two of the pulleys, the segment being adjustable in length without the use of tools; and a spring biased belt tensioner, wherein a portion of the frame includes two or more saddles configured to selectively receive the axle therein, wherein moving the axle from one saddle to another alters one or more of: a tension in the abrasive belt, a length of the unsupported belt segment, or an angle of a belt segment.

32. A sharpening system, comprising: an abrasive belt routed around three or more pulleys, the abrasive belt having a first belt segment extending from a first pulley in a first direction to a second pulley and a second belt segment extending from the first pulley in a second direction to a third pulley; a movable tool support with a blade support surface, the tool support being movable along a length of the second belt segment and beyond the first pulley, the blade support surface forming a grind angle with the second belt segment when the tool support is positioned adjacent the second belt segment, the blade support surface forming a sharpening angle with the first belt segment when the tool support is moved beyond the first pulley.

33. The sharpening system of claim 32, wherein the grind angle is betw een about 45-90 degrees.

34. The sharpening system of claim 32, wherein the sharpening angle is between about 0-45 degrees.

35. A sharpening system, comprising: a frame; a rocker secured to the frame and rotatable about a first axis, the rocker comprising a gear; a blade guide mounted on the frame; an abrasive belt routed around three or more belt pulleys, the abrasive belt having a belt segment extending between a first pulley and a second pulley, the first pulley being secured and rotatable about the first axis, the second pulley being rotatable about a second axis on the rocker, the belt segment being adjustable relative to the blade guide; and a gear drive adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the belt segment relative to the blade guide, the gear drive adjustment mechanism comprising: an input shaft having a user knob or lever and a gear; an angle indicator, comprising:a gear that engages the gear of the rocker; a pointer or indicia for indicating an angle; and a gear that engages the gear of the input shaft, wherein, rotation of the input shaft via the knob or lever rotates the angle indicator, which rotates the rocker to adjust the angle of the belt segment.

36. The sharpening system of claim 35, wherein the angle indicator and corresponding indicia on the frame are positioned such that the angle is visible to the user during normal operation of the sharpener.

37. The sharpening system of claim 35, wherein the user knob or lever is accessible to the user during normal operation of the sharpener.

38. A sharpening system, comprising: one or more sharpening stations configured for sharpening a blade; and a sharpness tester for measuring and indicating relative blade sharpness.

39. The sharpening system of claim 38, wherein the sharpness tester comprises a test module or cartridge that is removable or replaceable.

40. The sharpening system of claim 38, wherein the sharpness tester comprises a mechanical tester configured to measure the force to cut through a test media during a plunge cut.

41. The sharpening system of claim 38, wherein the sharpness tester comprises a mechanical tester configured to measure the distance to cut through a test media under a consistent spring bias force during a slicing cut.

42. The sharpening system of claim 38, wherein the sharpness tester comprises an electrical or electronic indicator or measurement of the force / distance at which a test media was cut.

43. The sharpening system of claim 38, wherein the sharpness tester comprises a test media that is stored in the sharpness tester or sharpener in a roll, strip, or rod form.

44. A sharpening system, comprising: a powered base with one or more power take offs (PTO) and one or more mounting features; one or more removable sharpening modules comprising one or more rotatable abrasive belts, each sharpening module comprising a mounting feature mountable to one of the one or more mounting features on the powered base, a sharpening member drivable byone of the PTOs, one or more blade locating features configured to position a blade at a sharpening angle relative to a surface of the abrasive member.

45. The sharpening system of claim 44, wherein the one or more removable sharpening modules comprises a belt module and a disc module.

46. A sharpening system, comprising: a power unit; and a convertible belt module, comprising: an abrasive belt routed around two or more pulleys; a mounting feature to selectively attach the convertible belt module to the power unit in at least first and second positions, the first position being a blade grinding position and the second position being a knife sharpening position.

47. The sharpening system of claim 46, wherein the convertible belt module further comprises a guide mount feature configured to locate and secure a removable blade grinding guide.

48. The sharpening system of claim 46, wherein the convertible belt module is configured to locate and secure a removable knife sharpening guide.

49. The sharpening system of claim 46, wherein the convertible belt module comprises a first belt segment on a first side of a first pulley and an opposing second belt segment on a second side of the first pulley,50. The sharpening system of claim 49, wherein the second position of the convertible belt module is configured to position the first and second belt segments symmetrically about a vertical plane through which an axis of the first pulley lies.

51. The sharpening sy stem of claim 49, further comprising a first guide adjacent to the first belt segment and an opposing second guide adjacent to the second belt segment.

52. The sharpening system of claim 51, wherein guide angles of the first and second guides are adjustable relative to the respective belt segments.

53. A sharpening system, comprising: a power unit; a knife sharpening structure comprising: an abrasive belt routed around two or more pulleys, the abrasive belt comprising first and second belt segments, the first belt segment extending in a first direction from a first pulley, the first belt segment being oriented at a first angle relative to a vertical plane, and the second belt segment being disposed on the opposing side of the vertical plane to the first belt segment;a first blade guide adj acent to the first belt segment and a second blade guide adjacent to the second belt segment, the first and second blade guides having symmetrically adjustable angles about the vertical plane relative to each adjacent belt segment; and a geared adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the angles of the first and second blade guides, the geared adjustment mechanism comprising: a frame member; a user knob connected to a drive gear; a first driven gear connected between the drive gear and the first guide; a second driven gear connected between the drive gear and the second guide; and an angle indicator and indicia located on the knob and frame member.

54. The sharpening system of claim 53, wherein the geared adjustment mechanism further comprises a detent feature for audible and / or tactile feedback at each division of angle.

55. The sharpening system of claim 53, wherein each blade guide is independently removable.

56. The sharpening system of claim 53, wherein the blade guides and geared adjustment mechanism form a guide assembly that is user removable from the remaining sharpening structure.

57. A sharpening system, comprising: a frame; a swing tensioner pivotally connected to the frame between a first position and a second position, the swing tensioner comprising a first detent feature; an abrasive belt routed around two or more pulleys, a first pulley secured to the swing tensioner via a bearing surface, the swing tensioner being configured to apply tension to the abrasive belt via a biasing member between the swing tensioner and the frame; a lock button coupled to the frame and having a second detent feature, the first and second detent features being configured to engage one another when the swing tensioner is in the second position to hold the swing tensioner in the second position.

58. The sharpening system of claim 57, wherein movement of the swing tensioner to the second position reduced a tension on the abrasive belt and allow for the abrasive belt to be removed.

59. The sharpening system of claim 57, wherein movement of the swing tensioner to the first position increases a tension on the abrasive belt.

60. The sharpening system of claim 57, wherein the lock button is configured to selectively disengage the first and second detent features.

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