Segmented Cutting Tool Blade for Safe Vine Removal Near Structures

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tools are inadequate for safely and effectively cutting vines and plant stems growing close to trees or structures without damaging the tree or structure, particularly when dealing with plants like poison ivy or those with thorns.

Innovation Solution

A cutting tool with a blade featuring multiple cutting loops of varying sizes and angles, formed by grinding, which allows for precise cutting and removal of vines by inserting the tool between the vine and the structure, enabling safe maneuvering and effective cutting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional cutting tool is used to cut vines growing close to trees or structures, then the vine can be cut, but the tree or structure may be damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesafety of cutting operationVSAvoiddamage to tree or structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The blade is segmented into multiple cutting loops of varying sizes, each capable of cutting vines at different distances from the tree or structure. This segmentation allows the user to select the appropriate loop size for the specific cutting task, enabling precise control over the cutting distance and preventing damage to the protected structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different portions of the blade have different local qualities through the varying loop configurations. The loops are positioned at different distances from the blade's back edge, creating zones of different cutting capabilities. This local differentiation allows the tool to adapt to various cutting scenarios without compromising the safety of nearby structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Productivity

If a cutting tool is maneuvered close to cut vines growing near structures, then cutting effectiveness improves, but the difficulty of maneuvering increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecutting effectivenessVSAvoidmaneuverability of cutting tool

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The blade is segmented into multiple cutting loops of varying sizes, each capable of cutting vines at different distances from the tree or structure. This segmentation allows the user to select the appropriate loop size for the specific cutting task, enabling precise control over the cutting distance and preventing damage to the protected structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different portions of the blade have different local qualities through the varying loop configurations. The loops are positioned at different distances from the blade's back edge, creating zones of different cutting capabilities. This local differentiation allows the tool to adapt to various cutting scenarios without compromising the safety of nearby structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Productivity

If existing cutting tools are used on thorny or poison ivy plants, then the plants can be cut, but the risk of injury or contamination increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to cut stubborn plantsVSAvoidrisk of injury or contamination

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The blade is segmented into multiple cutting loops of varying sizes, each capable of cutting vines at different distances from the tree or structure. This segmentation allows the user to select the appropriate loop size for the specific cutting task, enabling precise control over the cutting distance and preventing damage to the protected structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cutting loops act as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the hazardous plant material. By providing multiple loop sizes, the tool allows the user to maintain a safe distance from thorny or poisonous plants while still achieving effective cutting, thus reducing the risk of direct contact and subsequent injury or contamination.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10993377B1Vine cutting tool and method for making and using same

Publication Date: 2021.05.04 TERRELL DAVID L

AI summary

A cutting tool includes a blade having opposing front and back edges and inner and outer ends and defining at least two cutting loops, each cutting loop having a sharpened cutting edge and extending from an opening at the back edge and sloping therefrom toward the front edge and outer end at a loop angle of between about 35 and 55 degrees, the cutting loops each also having a depth from the back edge of between about 0.2 inches and 0.75 inches; and a handle at the inner end of the blade.