Ice Blade 3D Profiling and Grinding for Repeatable Sharpening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ice blade sharpening and shaping systems lack precision and customization, relying on trial and error methods, with users having limited feedback on the effectiveness of changes, leading to inconsistent performance and difficulty in replicating optimal blade configurations.
Innovation Solution
An automated apparatus comprising a processor, input device, skate holder, non-contact measuring device, and grinding device that allows users to select and implement precise grinding options based on measured 3D ice blade shapes, enabling customizable sharpening and shaping with real-time feedback.
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 the process lacks precision and customization capability
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from fixed, static grinding jigs to a dynamic, computer-controlled grinding head that can be precisely positioned and oriented in three-dimensional space. The grinding head can be moved along multiple axes and rotated to access different blade surfaces, enabling both high precision and full customization of blade shapes for different sports and user preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows continuous adjustment of grinding parameters including grind depth, angle, position, and pattern through digital controls. Users can specify exact hollow radius, edge angle, and blade profile parameters, transforming the rigid fixed-jig approach into a flexible parameter-driven process that achieves both precision and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If trial and error methods are used for ice blade sharpening, then users can attempt to optimize performance, but there is no meaningful feedback on the effectiveness of changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates before-and-after measurement and comparison capabilities that provide quantitative feedback on the sharpening results. The computer-controlled system tracks the exact parameters applied and can compare the resulting blade geometry against target specifications, giving users objective information about the effectiveness of each sharpening session rather than relying on subjective trial and error.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual, tactile-based sharpening judgment with automated, computer-vision-based measurement and analysis. Optical sensors and measurement devices objectively assess blade geometry, eliminating the loss of information that occurs when relying solely on user sensation and experience without quantitative feedback.
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed jigs and templates are used for ice blade sharpening, then consistent shapes can be replicated, but the process lacks customization for different users and sports
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces multiple sport-specific and user-specific fixed jigs with a single universal computer-controlled grinding machine that can be programmed through software to produce any desired blade configuration. The system maintains shape consistency through digital precision while achieving full customization by loading different parameter sets for hockey, figure skating, speed skating, or individual user preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a digital/programmatic dimension to the physical sharpening process. Instead of physical customization through multiple jigs, the system uses software parameters and digital models to define blade geometry, allowing infinite customization variations while maintaining manufacturing precision through computer control.
4Ease of operation
If manually-operating grinding machines are used, then users can control the sharpening process, but the process is time-consuming and lacks precision
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to independently control and execute the sharpening process through an intuitive computer interface. Users can select from pre-programmed profiles or customize their own parameters, and the automated system executes the grinding without requiring manual operation, combining user control with automated precision and speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical operation with computer-controlled automation. The grinding head movements, depths, and patterns are precisely controlled by software rather than manual manipulation, dramatically increasing both the speed and precision of the sharpening process while maintaining full user control through digital interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
An ice blade measuring system comprises a holder for holding an ice blade in a measurement position, and a non-contact measuring device operationally positioned relative to the holder to measure at least a three-dimensional (3D) shape of an ice contacting surface of the ice blade held in the holder. The non-contact measuring device is configured to create a dataset which corresponds to the measured 3D shape. The system further comprises a data storage means operatively connected to the non-contact measuring device to record the measured dataset.