Knife Grinding Contour Adaptation via Template Guide

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing knife sharpening devices fail to adapt the sharpening contour to the specific shape and wear of individual knives, leading to suboptimal cutting results due to fixed sharpening radii and angles, which are not tailored to the unique contours of knives with varying degrees of wear.

Innovation Solution

A device with a movable sharpening unit and interchangeable knife system, where the sharpening contour is specified by a template that matches the knife's cutting edge, allowing for adjustable sharpening angles and pressures, and a data record system for precise tracking of grinding paths, enabling adaptation to different knife types and wear levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a fixed sharpening radius is used for all knives, then the sharpening process is simplified and faster, but the sharpening angle cannot be optimized for knives with different wear levels

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesharpening speedVSAvoidadaptability to different knife wear levels
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the sharpening radius adjustable rather than fixed. The device allows the sharpening radius to be dynamically changed to match the specific wear level of each knife, enabling optimal sharpening angles while maintaining efficient automated operation. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to adapt its parameters based on the workpiece condition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the sharpening radius parameter according to the knife's wear level. By providing multiple adjustable radius settings, the system can optimize the sharpening angle for each specific knife condition, thereby maintaining both high productivity and adaptability to different wear levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Extent of automation

If knives are clamped at predetermined fixed points, then the sharpening process is more automated and consistent, but the degree of wear during sharpening cannot be taken into account

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of knife positioningVSAvoidconsideration of knife wear degree
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow the sharpening parameters to be modified based on the knife's wear level. The system maintains automated positioning while incorporating adjustable parameters that can be changed to account for different wear degrees, thus combining automation with adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If a preset sharpening radius is used for all knife types, then the device complexity is reduced, but the optimal sharpening angle cannot be achieved for each knife type

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of radius settingVSAvoidsharpening angle precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The invention introduces dynamic adjustability to the sharpening radius, allowing the operator to select different radius values based on the specific knife type and wear level. This maintains relatively simple device operation while achieving precise sharpening angles through parameter selection rather than complex mechanical adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 optimal sharpening of knives with any desired contour, minimizing wear and maintaining the original cutting edge shape, reducing manual intervention and increasing efficiency across various knife types without requiring extensive setup or tool changes.

Implementation Method 1

the sharpening unit having a guide element that engages in a template, with a sharpening contour to be traced by the sharpening unit is specified by the template

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical constraint through guide element and template engagement:

Implementation Method 2

at least one motor-driven sharpening stone

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbrasion: Abrasion

Implementation Method 3

The grinding unit is moved laterally via a rack and pinion drive

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRack and pinion gear mechanism: Rack and Pinion

Implementation Method 4

The lifting mechanism has a support surface for receiving the knives and a lifting cylinder

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic or pneumatic actuation: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 5

The removal device can be moved horizontally and has at least one holding magnet for receiving at least one knife

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP2810738B1Apparatus for grinding at least one knife
Publication Date: 2016.12.21 SIEMER ALFRED
  • EP2810738B1 patent drawing
  • EP2810738B1 patent drawing
  • EP2810738B1 patent drawing

AI summary

In a device for grinding at least one knife, with at least one movable grinding unit, which has at least one motor-driven grinding stone and with at least one magazine for receiving at least one knife, it is essential to the invention that the grinding unit has a guide element that engages in a template, and that a grinding contour to be followed by the grinding unit is defined by the template.