Optical Blade Sharpness Detection Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the sharpness of cutting blades in food slicing machines are not precise, reliable, or efficient, particularly at high speeds, affecting the cleanliness of cuts and the geometry of the cutting edge.
Innovation Solution
A device using a light source and light detection system, including a photodiode or CCD sensor, to measure the reflection from the cutting edge, calculating sharpness based on geometry, edge width, and angle, with an evaluation unit that accounts for previous grinding processes and damage, and optionally utilizing an RFID chip for data storage and retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical measurement methods are used to determine cutting edge sharpness, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based sharpness measurement methods with an optical measurement system. A light source illuminates the cutting edge, and a light detection device captures the reflected light pattern. The evaluation unit then analyzes this optical data to determine sharpness parameters, eliminating the need for physical contact with the blade and thereby improving measurement precision while reducing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary medium between the measurement system and the cutting edge. Instead of direct mechanical contact, light serves as the mediator that carries information about the cutting edge geometry and sharpness back to the detection device, enabling non-contact, high-precision measurement.
2Reliability
If continuous monitoring of cutting edge sharpness is implemented, then reliability is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic measurement cycles where the light source and detection device activate at predetermined intervals during the cutting operation. Rather than continuous operation, the system performs sharpness assessments at regular intervals or when specific conditions are met, thereby maintaining reliable monitoring capability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
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, quick, and reliable determination of cutting blade sharpness, allowing for optimal cutting performance and timely sharpening, reducing unnecessary wear and improving cut quality.
Implementation Method 1
a light detection device, which is designed to detect light from the light source reflected at the cutting knife edge
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device 12 for determining the sharpness of an edge 2 of a cutting blade 1 of a food slicer 24, in particular a circular or sickle blade, comprising a light source 13, a light detection device 14 designed to detect light from the light source 13 reflected at the cutting blade edge 2, and an evaluation unit 17 designed to determine the sharpness of the cutting blade 1 from the signal of the light detection device 14. The invention further relates to a food slicer 24 and a knife sharpening machine 29 with such a knife sharpness determination device 12, as well as a method for determining the sharpness of an edge 2 of a cutting blade 1.