Automatic Skate Blade Sharpening Apparatus with Linear Motor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manual sharpening apparatuses for skate blades require extensive skills and experience, resulting in varying and inconsistent sharpening results.
Innovation Solution
An automatic sharpening apparatus with a holder, grinding-wheel driving-motor, linear-motor, and magnetic spring for precise movement and constant belt tension, allowing for automatic sharpening of skate blades with self-centered clamping and adjustable grinding wheels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual sharpening apparatuses are used, then the apparatus structure is simple, but the sharpening precision and consistency deteriorate due to requiring extensive skills and experience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sharpening operations with an automated system featuring programmable motors, microprocessors, and computer-controlled mechanisms. The sharpening apparatus includes a motorized grinding wheel assembly, automated feed mechanisms, and digital control systems that eliminate the need for manual skill while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements programmable parameters for grinding wheel speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and positioning coordinates. These parameters can be stored in memory and recalled for different blade types, allowing precise control of sharpening conditions without requiring operator expertise. The system includes adjustable parameters for various blade geometries and material types.
2Reliability
If manual sharpening is performed, then the apparatus is easy to operate, but the sharpening results vary and consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-centering mechanisms for blade positioning, automated grinding wheel truing, and self-adjusting feed rates based on real-time monitoring. The system automatically compensates for variations in blade geometry and maintains optimal grinding conditions without continuous operator intervention, ensuring consistent results.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates sensors that monitor grinding wheel position, blade position, grinding force, and wheel speed. This feedback is processed by microprocessors that automatically adjust parameters to maintain optimal conditions. The system includes closed-loop control for positioning accuracy and grinding force regulation, ensuring repeatable results.
3Ease of operation
If automated sharpening apparatus is implemented, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional apparatus that can sharpen various blade types (ice skates, hockey blades, figure skates) using the same basic platform. The system includes interchangeable grinding wheel attachments, programmable settings for different blade geometries, and automated identification features that reduce the need for multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the sharpening apparatus into modular components: independent positioning systems for the blade holder and grinding wheel, separate motor drives for different axes, and distinct control modules. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized independently and simplifies maintenance while maintaining overall system automation.
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
The apparatus provides consistent and high-quality sharpening of skate blades with ease, eliminating the need for manual skill and ensuring correct grinding pressure and precision in blade sharpening.
Implementation Method 1
The method further comprises the step of providing a magnetic spring in operative engagement with the linear motor. The spring provides a counter-weight to a weight of the grinding wheel, a transmission assembly a tool exchange assembly and other components moved or lifted by the linear motor in the z-direction.
Implementation Method 2
A linear-motor moves the grinding wheel from a first position to a second position in a z-direction without moving the grinding-wheel driving-motor.
Implementation Method 3
The rotating grinding-wheel engages the blade. The grinding-wheel sharpens the blade.
Data Source
AI summary
The method is for sharpening a blade. An automatic sharpening apparatus is provided that has a holder. A blade is placed into the holder. A grinding-wheel driving motor, in operative engagement with a wheel on a spindle, rotates a grinding wheel. A grinding assembly motor moves the grinding wheel in an x-direction towards the blade. A linear motor moves the grinding wheel from a first position to a second position in a z-direction without moving the grinding-wheel driving motor. The rotating grinding wheel engages the blade. The grinding wheel sharpens the blade.