Adjustable Angle Gauge for Modular Knife Sharpening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing knife sharpeners lack adjustability in sharpening angle, modular functionality, and often require multiple devices for different sharpening tasks, and do not accommodate arrowhead removal.

Innovation Solution

An angle gauge with adjustable sharpening angle, integrated modular components for multiple sharpening functions, and a handle with arrowhead twisting capability, featuring a compact design for portability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the inclination angle of the sharpening surface is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot meet the sharpening angle requirements of various knives

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesharpening angle adaptabilityVSAvoidangle adjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic angle adjustment mechanism where the sharpening surface can be rotated to different angles. The angle adjustment member rotates relative to the support member, allowing the sharpening surface to achieve multiple predetermined angles (e.g., 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°) to meet different knife sharpening requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the angular parameter of the sharpening surface by providing multiple predetermined angles through the angle adjustment mechanism. This allows the same device to adapt to different sharpening angle requirements without changing the basic structure, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate knife sharpening devices are purchased for different functions, then each function can be optimized, but the total volume and number of devices increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesharpening function versatilityVSAvoiddevice volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the knife sharpener with multiple sharpening rods that can be installed in the same device body. Each rod provides a different sharpening function (coarse sharpening, fine sharpening, polishing), allowing one device to replace multiple separate devices. The handle member can accommodate different rod types, achieving versatility without increasing overall device volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the sharpening functions into separate replaceable rods while keeping the handle and support structure unified. This modular approach allows users to swap rods based on different sharpening needs without carrying or storing multiple complete devices, reducing total volume while maintaining functional versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If the handle and knife sharpening rod are integrally connected, then the structure is simple, but the volume is larger and inconvenient to store or carry

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection structure simplicityVSAvoiddevice volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the knife sharpener into separable components: a handle member and a support member that can be detached from each other. The support member containing the sharpening rod can be removed and stored separately, allowing the handle to be compact for carrying while the sharpening component can be stored when not in use, reducing overall volume without overly complicating the connection structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Manufacturing precision

If an angle adjustment mechanism is added to make the angle adjustable, then the sharpening angle requirement can be met, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesharpening angle precisionVSAvoidangle adjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent provides multiple predetermined angular positions (e.g., 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°) through the angle adjustment mechanism rather than allowing continuous adjustment. This discrete parameter approach achieves precise sharpening angle control for different knife types while keeping the adjustment mechanism relatively simple with defined stopping positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The angle adjustment member is designed to be easily rotated and positioned by the user without requiring complex locking mechanisms or tools. The predetermined angles provide natural stopping positions that guide the user to the correct angle, making the adjustment process self-service and intuitive while maintaining manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables precise and consistent sharpening across various angles, reduces the need for multiple devices, and provides a compact, portable solution with additional arrowhead removal functionality.

Implementation Method 1

The first angle adjustment knob and the push tube are threadedly connected to achieve axial movement of the push tube

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThread engagement: Screw

Implementation Method 2

the angle adjustment member is provided with a second inclined surface... Through movement of the angle adjustment member, the second inclined surface drives an end of the first inclined surface-equipped member to adjust an inclination angle of the first inclined surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInclined plane mechanism: Inclined Plane

Implementation Method 3

The first inclined surface-equipped member is connected to a fourth elastic member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20250216185A1Angle gauge with adjustable angle and knife sharpener having same
Publication Date: 2025.07.03 SHARPAL
  • US20250216185A1 patent drawing
  • US20250216185A1 patent drawing
  • US20250216185A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an angle gauge with an adjustable angle and a knife sharpener having the same. The angle gauge includes at least one set of angle adjustment mechanisms. Each set of angle adjustment mechanisms includes a first support, a first inclined surface-equipped member, and an angle adjustment member. The first inclined surface-equipped member is provided with a first inclined surface for sharpening a knife. The angle adjustment member is provided with a second inclined surface. The first inclined surface-equipped member is rotatably connected to the first support. Through movement of the angle adjustment member, the second inclined surface drives an end of the first inclined surface-equipped member to rise or fall, to adjust an inclination angle of the first inclined surface.