3D-Scanned Ice Blade Grinding for Precise Custom Sharpening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ice blade sharpening and shaping systems lack precision, consistency, and user customization, relying on trial and error methods and fixed jigs, which can lead to suboptimal performance and difficulty in replicating effective changes.
Innovation Solution
An automated ice blade grinding system that uses a 3D scanner and grinding device, controlled by a processor, to measure and adjust the shape of ice blades based on user input and stored models, allowing for precise customization and consistent results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manually-operating grinding machines or automatic grinding machines with fixed jigs are used, then ice blade shaping can be accomplished, but precision and consistency are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fixed jigs and templates with a computer vision system using cameras and image processing algorithms. The system captures images of the ice blade, processes them to determine the blade shape, and compares it against desired shape parameters. This substitution of mechanical measurement systems with optical and computational systems enables precise, customizable shaping without the limitations of fixed physical guides.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed jigs and templates are used for sharpening, then a standard shape can be applied, but user customization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic system where the desired ice blade shape is not fixed but can be customized by users through input parameters. The system allows users to specify various shape characteristics and adjusts the grinding process accordingly. This dynamic adaptability is achieved through software control that processes user inputs and generates appropriate grinding paths, enabling versatile customization without requiring multiple physical templates.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables customization by allowing users to modify various parameters that define the ice blade shape. These parameters can include curvature, edge angles, and other geometric properties. The computer vision system and control software process these parameter changes and translate them into specific grinding operations, providing flexible adaptation to different user preferences and performance requirements.
3Productivity
If trial and error methods are used for ice blade shaping, then some customization is possible, but time consumption and inconsistency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the camera system continuously monitors the ice blade shape during the sharpening process. The captured images are processed to determine the current blade geometry, which is then compared against the desired shape parameters. This feedback loop allows the system to make real-time adjustments to the grinding process, ensuring that the final product matches the specified requirements consistently, eliminating the trial-and-error approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary analysis of the ice blade's current shape using image processing before the actual sharpening begins. This preliminary action includes capturing images, processing them to determine existing geometry, and comparing it with the desired shape. By preparing this information in advance, the system can plan the grinding operations more efficiently and achieve consistent results without repeated adjustments.
Data Source
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AI summary
An automated apparatus for grinding an ice blade on an ice skate is disclosed. The apparatus includes a processor, an input means, a skate holder, a measuring device, and a grinding device. The input means is in communication with the processor to permit a user to select an ice blade grinding option. The skate holder is configured to releasably hold an ice skate in a fixed grinding position. The measuring device is in communication with the processor, and is configured to measure a shape of the ice blade. The grinding device is in communication with the processor, and is configured to perform a grinding action on the ice blade based on the selected ice blade grinding option, to change the shape of the ice blade to a desired shape. Also disclosed are methods of measuring, sharpening, and grinding an ice blade, as well as ice blade measuring and grinding systems utilizing the aforesaid methods.