EP1559506B1

EP1559506B1 - Device for processing or finishing the blades of a ski or a snowboard

Info

Publication number: EP1559506B1
Application number: EP04425179A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Giuseppe c/o Mantec Engineering S.r.l. Moroni
Original assignee: Mantec Engineering Srl
Current assignee: Mantec Engineering Srl
Priority date: 2004-01-30
Filing date: 2004-03-17
Publication date: 2008-09-10
Anticipated expiration: 2024-03-17
Also published as: EP1559506A1; ATE407769T1; DE602004016452D1

Abstract

A device (10) for processing the blades (14) of a ski (12) which develops along a longitudinal axis (X-X) is such that said device (10) and said ski (12) are adapted for moving, with respect to one another, in a relative movement along a direction substantially parallel to the development axis (X-X) of the ski. The device comprises at least one portion (10a) adapted for processing a side surface (14b) of a blade (14) and provided with a side grinding wheel (18) operatively associated to a motor (20). The motor and the grinding wheel can oscillate around an axis (c-c) during the relative movement between the device (10) and the ski (12) to follow the curvilinear outline of the side surface (14a) of the blade relative to the development axis of the ski (X-X). The device (10) comprises at least one feeler pin (56) adapted for coming into contact with the side surface of the ski or of the blade to follow the curvilinear outline of the side surface of the ski or of the blade along the development axis of the ski (X-X) and cause the oscillation of the motor (20) and of the side grinding wheel (18) around the axis (c-c). <IMAGE>

Description

The subject of the present invention is a device for processing or finishing the blades of a ski, a snowboard or the like. In the description below and in the claims, reference is made to the use on a ski even though it is also possible to process snowboards or the like.
In particular, the present invention relates to a device adapted for finishing the side surface and the sliding surface of both blades of a ski by a grinding wheel.
A device is known, for processing the blades of a ski fitted on a machine adapted for receiving the ski and automatically carrying out the blade finishing operation. More precisely, there are provided two devices for processing the ski blades, arranged at opposed sides with respect to the longitudinal ski development. The ski is inserted into a seat of the machine and, by moving the ski itself along its longitudinal axis or moving the above devices along a direction parallel to the longitudinal ski axis, a relative translation motion is obtained between the ski and the devices in question, which allows processing the entire blade length.
Document US-A-6 086 465 discloses a device according to the preamble of claim 1.
The continual evolution of the ski shape to achieve increasingly better performance has brought to favour the so-called shaped skis, that is, wherein the width in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal ski length varies along the longitudinal development itself. In other words, the ski exhibits enlarged portions at the tip and at the tail whereas the central portion of the ski exhibits a smaller width. Consequently, the side blade surface exhibits a curvilinear outline relative to the longitudinal ski axis, which known devices are not always capable of finishing. Consequently, the ski is not capable of ensuring optimum performance in terms of speed and blade grip of the snow mantle, for example icy. In particular, the known devices are easily stuck along the side blade surface, thereby creating an inaccurate finishing with consequent reduced performance during the use of the skis, especially during competitions.
From what said above it is clear that there is an increasing need of making the blade processing more effective, also in the case of skis wherein the width varies along the longitudinal ski development and therefore the side blade surface is curvilinear.
The problem at the basis of the present invention is that of proposing a device for processing the blades of a ski, which should exhibit such structural and functional features as to meet the above need and overcoming the disadvantages mentioned with reference to the prior art.
Such problem is solved by a device for processing the blades of a ski according to claim 1. The claims depending on claim 1 relate to advantageous embodiments of the same device.
Further features and advantages of the device for processing the blades of a ski according to the invention will appear more clearly from the following description of its preferred embodiments, made by way of a non-limiting example with reference to the annexed figures, wherein:
figure 1 shows a bottom view of a ski, that is, a view showing the sliding surface of the ski, adapted for resting on the ground during the normal use of the ski itself;
figure 2 shows the section II-II of the ski of figure 1, corresponding to the position in which the ski is during its normal condition of use turned by 180°;
figure 3a shows an enlarged view of the detail III of figure 2 according to a first embodiment;
figure 3b shows an enlarged view of the detail III of figure 2 according to a second embodiment;
figures 4a-4d schematically show a top view of a ski and of a portion of a device for processing the blades of a ski according to the present invention in different operating conditions;
figure 5 shows a side view of the device shown in figure 4d according to arrow V of figure 4d;
figures 6a-6c schematically show a side view of a portion of the device for processing the blades of a ski according to the present invention in different operating conditions;
figure 7 show a substantially top view of a possible embodiment of the device for processing the blades of a ski according to the present invention;
figure 8 shows a perspective view of the device of figure 7 according to arrow VIII;
figure 9 shows a perspective view of the device of figure 7 according to arrow IX;
figure 10 shows a perspective view of a detail of a portion of the device according to the present invention;
figure 11 shows a vertical section view according to a possible embodiment;
figure 12 shows a vertical section view according to a possible embodiment;
figures 13 and 14 show a portion of the section offigure 11 or 12 in different operating conditions;
figure 15 shows a side view of a portion of the device according to the present invention adapted for processing a sliding surface of a ski blade;
figure 16 shows section XVI-XVI of figure 15;
figure 17 shows section XVII-XVII of figure 15;
figure 18 shows a perspective view of a detail of a first portion of the device according to the present invention;
figure 19 shows a perspective view of a detail of the device according to the present invention;
figure 20 shows a perspective partly sectioned view of a ski wherein there is highlighted the abrasive ring of the front grinding wheel adapted for processing the sliding surface of the blade.
With reference to the above figures, reference numeral 10 globally indicates a device for processing the blades of a ski 12.
With reference to figure 1, there is schematically illustrated a portion of a ski 12, according to a bottom view with reference to the normal use of the ski itself. In other words, figure 1 shows a view wherein there is shown the sliding surface of the ski, indicated with reference numeral 12a. More in detail, figure 1 shows a bottom view of the tip portion of a ski wherein there is highlighted the ski blade, indicated with reference numeral 14. With reference to the normal use of the ski, the lower surface of the blade shown in figure 1 and corresponding to the sliding surface of the ski is indicated with reference numeral 14a. In the description below, the blade surface indicated with reference numeral 14a will also be referred to as sliding surface.
Ski 12 conventionally develops along a longitudinal axis X-X and, as shown in figure 1, ski 12 exhibits a variable length L along the longitudinal development of the ski itself. The variation of width L is generally such that the ski exhibits a larger width in portions close to the tip and to the tail compared to a central portion of the ski itself.
Figure 2 schematically shows section II-II of figure 1. Reference numeral 12b indicates the side surfaces of the ski and reference numeral 14b indicates the side surfaces of the blades. Finally, reference numeral 12c indicates the visible surface of the ski, that is, the surface that during the normal use of the ski is arranged on top, contrary to what shown in figure 2.
Figures 3a and 3b are two enlarged views of two different embodiments of the detail indicated with III infigure 2. Figure 3a shows a conventional embodiment of ski 12, wherein the sliding surface 14a of the blade and the sliding surface 12a of the ski substantially lay on the same plane, provided there are no inclination of the blade surface (indicated with a broken line). Figure 3b shows a new and advantageous embodiment of the ski, wherein the sliding surface 14a of the blade is lowered compared to the sliding surface 12a of the ski. In other words, between the sliding surface 12a of the ski and the sliding surface 14a of the blade there is a step 16 so, with reference to figure 3b, the sliding surface 14a is arranged below the sliding surface 12a of the ski (with reference to the normal use of the ski wherein the sliding surface 12a of the ski rests on the ground, the sliding surface 14a of the blade is on top of the sliding surface 12a of the ski, the ski being rotated by 180° compared to figure 3b).
With reference to both figure 3a and figure 3b, a lower outside edge of the blade is indicated with reference numeral 15a whereas an upper outside edge of the blade is indicated with reference numeral 15b.
In other words, the advantageous embodiment of the ski (or of a snowboard) according to what illustrated in figure 3b provides for the lowering of the blade relative to the so-called ski base. In this way, only after processing the blade it is possible to process the base without impairing the result of the processing performed on the blade. Moreover, the base processing is easier since it is possible to properly process also its edges, thanks to the presence of step 16. Finally, it has been unusually noted that the ski or snowboard performance is improved, both in terms of grip and in terms of speed reached.
The device 10 object of the present invention preferably is part of a machine adapted for receiving the ski and automatically processing the sliding surfaces 14a and the side surfaces 14b of blades 14. In particular, there are advantageously provided two devices 10 specularly arranged on the machine so as to process the two blades of a ski at the same time.
Figure 7 shows a top view of a portion of the machine housing ski 12 and a device 10. At the side opposed to axis X-X there is provided another device, specular to that shown in figure 7, not shown.
The ski may be inserted into the machine with the blades arranged on top or at the bottom according to the arrangement of device 10 onto the machine itself. By way of an example, in the annexed drawings the ski is inserted into the machine so that the sliding surface 12a is horizontal and arranged at the bottom, that is, as in the normal use of the ski.
According to a possible embodiment, the ski is inserted into a seat, not shown, wherein it is held still with devices 10 arranged at opposed sides of the ski. Each device 10 is made to move according to a direction parallel to the longitudinal development X-X of the ski itself. In this case, it is preferable that the movement of device 10 according to the direction of axis X-X be of the controlled type with feedback, so that the movement axis of device 10 parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X of the ski is a controlled axis of the machine.
According to a different embodiment, the ski is seated onto rollers, not shown, and moved along the direction of its longitudinal axis X-X relative to devices 10. Also in this case, it is preferable that a controlled machine axis corresponds to the ski movement along its longitudinal axis X-X.
In both cases schematically described above, the machine is structurally and functionally adapted for realising a relative motion between devices 10 arranged at opposed sides of the ski and the ski itself, so that each device 10 may process the ski blade along all of its longitudinal extension. In other words, a relative motion is provided between a device 10 and ski 12 that develops along the longitudinal axis X-X of the ski itself.
In its more general aspects, device 10 is supported on the receiving machine in a substantially conventional manner, based on whether the ski or the device itself moves. According to a possible embodiment, device 10 comprises a support element S operatively associated to linear guides G. Advantageously, the support element S can move along guides G defining a movement axis Y-Y, relative to the machine that seats the ski, arranged transversally to axis X-X of the ski itself.
Preferably, axis Y-Y along which the support element S moves is perpendicular to the ski development axis X-X. Moreover, axis Y-Y is preferably substantially parallel to the sliding surface 12a of the ski. In other words, considering that the ski is generally arranged on the machine so that the sliding surface 12a of the ski is horizontal, axis Y-Y is a horizontal movement axis arranged perpendicularly to the ski development axis X-X. In the description below, the term "horizontal" or "vertical" is used with reference to the above condition of the ski on the machine.
According to a possible embodiment, an actuator A, for example a pneumatic cylinder, is arranged between the support element S and the machine structure for carrying out a movement for moving device 10 next to the ski along axis Y-Y.
According to a possible embodiment, device 10 comprises a first portion 10a adapted for processing the side surface 14b of the blade. The first portion 10a is schematically illustrated in figures 4a-4d and 5, whereas figures 7-10 show a possible embodiment.
The first portion 10a comprises a first grinding wheel 18, or side grinding wheel, preferably of the cup grinding wheel type, wherein the abrasive surface consists of a ring 18a. The abrasive ring 18a is flat and substantially perpendicular to an axis of rotation a-a of the grinding wheel. The term "side grinding wheel" refers to a grinding wheel adapted for processing the side surface 14b of the blade.
The first grinding wheel 18 is operatively associated to a motor 20 adapted for driving it into rotation around an axis of rotation a-a.
According to a possible embodiment, with reference to a vertical plane containing axis a-a, the axis of rotation a-a of the first grinding wheel 18 can vary its inclination relative to a horizontal plane. In fact, if the surface to be processed is a side surface of the blade perpendicular to the sliding surface of the ski, the axis of rotation a-a is adapted for being arranged in a plane substantially parallel to the sliding surface 12a of the ski, that is, in the general case in which the ski is arranged so that its sliding surface 12a is horizontal, axis a-a is arranged in a substantially horizontal plane. On the other hand, if the surface to be processed is a side surface 14b of the blade slightly inclined relative to the direction perpendicular to the sliding surface 12a of the ski, the axis of rotation a-a is adapted for being arranged slightly inclined relative to the horizontal plane. The inclination of axis a-a can be comprised between -3 and +6 sexagesimal degrees, for example between -1 and 5 sexagesimal degrees or in the range of 0-5 sexagesimal degrees, as it will be described hereinafter.
According to a possible embodiment, with reference to a plane containing axis a-a arranged in horizontal or inclined direction relative to the horizontal described above, axis a-a can move relative to direction Y-Y following the curvilinear development of the side surface 12b of the ski, as better described hereinafter.
According to a possible embodiment, motor 20 comprises a casing 22 shaped as a box, or grinding wheel holder spindle.
According to a possible embodiment, motor 20 is housed into a front carriage (with reference to the ski) indicated with reference numeral 24.
According to a possible embodiment, the front carriage 24 is operatively associated to a guide 26 on which it can be made to move along an axis Y'-Y' arranged on the machine whereon the ski is seated so as to be substantially in the same direction as axis Y-Y, unless provided there are no oscillations, which will be described hereinafter. Axis Y'-Y' along which the front carriage 24 moves is perpendicular to the portion of the side surface of the ski or of the blade that directly faces the first grinding wheel 18 during the processing of the blade itself. Moreover, axis Y'-Y' is preferably substantially parallel to the sliding surface 12a of the ski. In other words, considering that the ski is generally arranged on the machine so that the sliding surface 12a of the ski is horizontal, axis Y'-Y' is a horizontal movement axis arranged perpendicularly to the portion of the side surface of the ski or of the blade facing directly the first grinding wheel 18 during the processing of the blade itself. According to a possible embodiment, axis Y'-Y' and axis a-a lay in the same vertical plane.
The front carriage 24 is schematised in figures 4a-4d and 5 to schematically show the operation of device 10 as described below. In figure 4a, some details are outlined because they are not directly visible whereas in the following figures, the elements have been left in continuous line for simplicity of representation. Moreover, the support element S is shown only in figure 4a and 5 by way of an example. According to a possible embodiment, for example shown in figures 7-10 , the front carriage 24 comprises a lower base 24a, slidingly engaged on guide 26, and containment walls 24b, for example connected by a traverse 24c so as to define a seat adapted for receiving the box-shaped casing 22 of motor 20. Of course, the front carriage 24 may have any other shape besides that just described.
According to a possible embodiment, there are provided means for changing the inclination of axis a-a relative to the front carriage 24, and in particular, relative to the sliding plane of the front carriage 24, that is, generally relative to the horizontal plane. In other words there are provided means for inclining the abrasive surface 18a of the first grinding wheel 18 so as to obtain a side surface 14b of the blade inclined relative to the direction perpendicular to the sliding surface 12a of the ski.
According to a possible embodiment of the above means for changing the inclination of axis a-a relative to the sliding plane of the front carriage (and therefore, relative to the front carriage itself), motor 20 and therefore the first grinding wheel 18 are fitted on the front carriage 24 so as to rotate around an axis b-b such as to change the inclination of the abrasive ring 18a of the first grinding wheel relative to the side surface of the blade. Axis b-b is perpendicular to axis a-a and lays in a horizontal plane. According to a possible embodiment, the above means for changing the inclination of axis a-a are structured so that axis b-b lays on a chord of the grinding wheel adapted for coming into contact with the lower outside edge 15a of the blade. In particular, axis a-a is inclined by making it rotate around axis b-b which coincides with the free edge or corner of the blade (figure 20). Using the blade corner as fulcrum for adjusting the inclination of the grinding wheel (axis a-a), it is possible to obtain an optimum control of the inclination angle of the grinding wheel and it is possible to change such inclination while processing the ski along its longitudinal axis, while the grinding wheel is in contact with the blade. The ski blade processing can therefore be made automated, controlled and with feedback. In other words, the inclination of axis a-a of the grinding wheel, that is, the adjustment of the blade surface inclination to be obtained, is advantageously realised by rotation around a known fulcrum, that is, by rotation around an axis that can advantageously be a controlled processing axis, for example to be changed with substantial continuity based on the ski area (tip, centre or tail) being processed. The grinding wheel inclination adjustment, and therefore of the surface to be obtained, occurs while the grinding wheel is in contact with the blade and along an interpolation portion between the different ski areas that can require different blade angles (tip, centre, and tail), also allowing a numerical control application of the process itself.
Advantageously, motor 20, or more preferably its grinding wheel support spindle or casing 22, exhibit at least one arched slot 28, preferably two arched slots obtained on opposed surfaces of the motor, or of the box-shaped casing, which develop along an arched line 30 laying in a vertical plane. In other words, there is provided a curvilinear block or cam that forces axis a-a of the grinding wheel to rotate around a fulcrum consisting of the free corner of the ski blade, as described above. At least two pins 32, preferably three pins 30 are fitted on the front carriage 24 so that the respective longitudinal axes are substantially parallel to one another and perpendicular to a vertical plane. The intersection points of the axes of pins 32 with a vertical plane lay along an arched line equal to the arched line 30 along which the above slot develops. In the coupling between motor 20 and the front carriage 24, pins 32 are arranged so as to insert in a corresponding arched slot 28 so that the motor, and therefore the first grinding wheel, may rotate around axis b-b (blade corner) relative to the front carriage 24, as shown by way of an example in figures 11-14.
The means for changing the inclination of axis a-a relative to the front carriage 24 can further comprise actuating means, for example comprising an arm 34 connected to motor 20, preferably to the grinding wheel support spindle 22, adapted for defining a lever by which motor 20 is made to rotate. An end 34a of arm 34 is operatively associated to adjusting means, for example comprising a threaded member 36, for raising and lowering the end itself and thus rotate both arm 34 and motor 20. The threaded member 36 is operatively associated to the front carriage 24 so as to move end 34a of arm 34 closer or father relative to a portion of the front carriage itself. Some possible embodiments of the means for changing the angulation of axis a-a are illustrated in figures 7, 8, 11-14, wherein for example arm 34 exhibits a first portion 34b fixed to motor 20, preferably to casing 22. The first portion 34b preferably exhibits such extension as to protrude from the front carriage 24, that is, such that one of its ends is outside one of the containment walls 24b, if present (figure 18 shows a specular arrangement of the first portion 34b compared to the other embodiments shown). A second portion 34c, preferably perpendicular to the first one, is fixed to the end of the first portion 34b opposed to motor 20. The second portion 34c is preferably shaped as an "L" and defines end 34a of arm 34 operatively associated to the adjusting means. In particular, end 34a can comprise a connecting element 38, for example shaped as a plate, connected to the second portion 34c of arm 34 by a pin 40. A disc 42 may be fixed to the connecting element 38, to prevent the threaded member clearance. Both the connecting element 38 and disc 42, if present, exhibit a threaded thorough seat adapted for receiving an end of the threaded member 36. The threaded member 36 exhibits a non-threaded portion 36a by which it is fitted into an adjusting block 44 comprising a first portion 44a fixed to the front carriage 24, preferably to a containment wall 24b, and an actuating portion 44b preferably realised by a motor, suitably controlled and with feedback (figure 11). According to a possible embodiment, for example shown in figures 7, 8 and 12, the actuating portion 44b is realised by a manually driven flywheel.
Inside the first portion 44a, the non-threaded portion 36a of the threaded member 36 is free to rotate on bearings 46 and exhibits an abutment plate 48. The non-threaded portion 36a extends beyond the first portion 44a of the adjustment block and is pivoted to the motor shaft 44b (or to the manually driven flywheel). Advantageously, there are provided means 49 for indicating 49 the inclination of axis a-a relative to the horizontal plane, arranged for example between the first portion 44a of the adjustment block 44 and end 34a of arm 34.
The operation of the means for inclining axis a-a of motor 20 relative to the front carriage 24 will be described hereinafter along with the operation of device 10.
According to a possible embodiment, device 10 further comprises a rear carriage, with reference to the ski and to the front carriage 24, indicated with reference numeral 50. According to a possible embodiment, the rear carriage 50 is slidingly associated to a guide, preferably the same guide 26 on which the front carriage 24 moves.
Advantageously, the rear carriage 5 can be made to move along axis Y'-Y' as defined above for the front carriage 24.
According to a possible embodiment, the front carriage 24 and the rear carriage 50 are connected to one another by an actuator 52, preferably a pneumatic cylinder. A further actuator 53, preferably a pneumatic cylinder, can be provided arranged between the rear carriage 50 and guide 26.
The rear carriage 50 is schematised in figures 4a-4d and 5 to schematically show the operation of device 10 as described below. According to a possible embodiment, for example shown in figures 7-10, the carriage comprises a base 50a adapted for being slidingly fitted on guide 26. Two arms 54 extend from base 50a towards the ski, or towards the first grinding wheel 18. In other words, the rear carriage 50 advantageously exhibits a two-prong fork shape whose ends are adapted for arranging at the side surface of the ski to be processed. Advantageously, each arm 54 exhibits a roller or feeler pin 56 having longitudinal axis arranged so that the two rollers may rest against the side surface of the ski or against the side surface 14b of the ski blade. Preferably, the axis of each roller 56 is arranged transversally, preferably perpendicularly, to axis X-X of the ski and substantially perpendicular to the sliding surface 12a of the ski itself. In other words, considering that the ski is generally arranged on the machine so that the sliding surface 12a is horizontal, the two rollers 56 are arranged vertical so as to rest against the side surface of the ski or against the side surface 14b of the blade. Yet in other words, the first portion 10a of device 10 adapted for processing the side surface 14b of the ski blade comprises two feeler pins 56 adapted for resting against the side surface of the ski or of the blade to follow its outline during the relative motion between the ski and device 10 along axis X-X of the ski itself. More in particular, it is advantageously provided that the rear carriage 50 comprises the two feeler pins 56. The rear carriage 50 shown in figure 10 is specular compared with the other embodiments.
According to a possible embodiment, the support element S of device 10 is operatively connected to the front carriage 24 and to the rear carriage 50 so that both carriages can rotate around an axis c-c relative to the support element itself, to follow the outline of the side surface 14b of the blade during the relative motion of the ski and of device 10 along the longitudinal axis X-X of the ski itself. Preferably, the front carriage and the rear carriage slide on the same guide 26 and the latter is fitted on the support element S so as to rotate around axis c-c. Axis c-c is advantageously arranged transversally, preferably perpendicularly, to axis X-X of the ski and to the movement axis Y-Y of the support element S. According to a possible embodiment, axis c-c is advantageously arranged transversally, preferably perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis X-X of the ski and to the sliding surface 12a of the ski itself. In other words, considering that the ski is generally seated in the machine so that the sliding surface 12a of the ski is horizontal, axis c-c is arranged vertical so that the front carriage 24 and the rear carriage 50 can oscillate around it in a substantially horizontal plane.
Considering a plane substantially parallel to the sliding surface 12a of the ski, that is, generally a horizontal plane, axis X-X defines the direction of the relative motion between device 10 and the ski while axis Y-Y defines the sliding direction of device 10 (and in particular, of the first portion 10a or of the support element S) closer or farther to/from the ski perpendicularly to axis X-X. During the relative motion between device 10 and the ski along direction X-X, the front carriage 24 and the rear carriage 50 follow the curvilinear outline of the side ski surface thanks to the two feeler pins 56 that make the carriages oscillate around axis c-c perpendicular to axis X-X and to axis Y-Y. As a consequence, the movement axis Y'-Y' of the two carriages oscillates relative to direction Y-Y, during the relative motion between device 10 and the ski along direction X-X, remaining always perpendicular to the side surface of the ski facing the first grinding wheel 18. Similarly, the rotation axis a-a of the first grinding wheel oscillates around axis c-c relative to direction Y-Y, during the relative motion between device 10 and the ski along direction X-X.
According to a possible embodiment, device 10 comprises a second portion 10b adapted for processing the sliding surface 14a of the blade.
The second portion 10b comprises a second grinding wheel 60, or front grinding wheel, preferably of the cup grinding wheel type, wherein the abrasive surface consists of a ring 60a. The abrasive ring 60a is plane and arranged perpendicular to an axis of rotation d-d of grinding wheel 60. The term "front grinding wheel" refers to a grinding wheel adapted for processing the sliding surface 14a of the blade.
The second grinding wheel 60 is operatively associated to a motor 62 adapted for driving it into rotation around an axis of rotation d-d. The axis of rotation d-d is arranged transversally to the longitudinal axis X-X of the ski, preferably perpendicular to it. Moreover, axis d-d is arranged in a plane substantially perpendicular to the sliding surface 12a of the ski, that is, in the general case in which the ski is arranged so that the sliding surface 12a is horizontal, axis d-d is arranged in a substantially vertical plane.
According to a possible embodiment, with reference to the vertical plane containing axis d-d, axis d-d can vary its inclination relative to a direction perpendicular to the sliding surface of the ski or generally relative to a vertical direction. In fact, if the surface to be processed is a sliding surface of the blade parallel to the sliding surface of the ski, axis d-d is adapted for being arranged according to a vertical direction. If the surface to be processed is a sliding surface 14a of the blade slightly inclined, as described hereinafter, axis d-d is adapted for being arranged slightly inclined relative to the vertical direction. The inclination of axis d-d can be comprised between -3 and +6 sexagesimal degrees, for example in the range of 0-6 sexagesimal degrees, as it will be described hereinafter.
According to a possible embodiment, motor 62 comprises a grinding wheel support spindle or casing 64 shaped as a box.
According to a possible embodiment, motor 62 is seated into a carriage indicated with reference numeral 66. Advantageously, carriage 66 is slidingly fitted on a support element. For example, carriage 66 is slidingly fitted on the same support element S of the first portion 10a of device 10. The support element S is provided with an upright 67 with a guide 68 along which carriage 66 can move along an axis Z-Z. Axis Z-Z is transversal, preferably perpendicular, to the development axis X-X of the ski and transversal, substantially perpendicular, to the sliding axis Y-Y. In other words, carriage 66 is adapted for being moved along a vertical direction, considering the general horizontal arrangement of the ski on the machine. An actuator 70, preferably a pneumatic cylinder, is arranged between the support element S and carriage 66 for raising or lowering the carriage along direction Z-Z.
According to a possible embodiment, for example shown in figures 7-9, carriage 66 comprises two side walls 66a, of which one slidingly engaged on guide 68, for example connected by a transversal wall 66b. The two side walls 66a define a seat adapted for receiving the box-shaped casing 64 of motor 62. Of course, carriage 66 may have any other shape besides that just described.
According to a possible embodiment, there are provided means for changing the inclination of axis d-d relative to carriage 66, that is, relative to the vertical direction. In other words there are provided means for inclining the abrasive surface 60a of the second grinding wheel 60 so as to obtain a sliding surface 14a of the blade inclined relative to the sliding surface 12a of the ski.
According to a possible embodiment of the above means for changing the inclination of axis d-d relative to carriage 66, motor 62 and therefore the second grinding wheel 60 are fitted on carriage 66 so as to rotate around an axis b'-b' such as to change the inclination of the abrasive ring 60a of the second grinding wheel relative to the side surface 14a of the blade. Axis b'-b' is perpendicular to axis d-d and parallel to direction X-X. According to a possible embodiment, axis b'-b' lays on a chord of the second grinding wheel 60 adapted for resting against the lower outside edge 15a of the blade.
Advantageously, the means for changing the inclination of axis d-d relative to carriage 66 are structurally and functionally similar to those described above with reference to the first portion 10a of device 10. In particular, axis d-d is inclined by making it rotate around axis b'-b' which coincides with the free edge or corner of the blade (figure 20). Using the blade corner as fulcrum for adjusting the inclination of the grinding wheel (axis d-d), it is possible to obtain an optimum control of the inclination angle of the grinding wheel and it is possible to change such inclination while processing the ski along its longitudinal axis, thus obtaining a blade processing that can be made automatic, controlled and with feedback. In other words, the inclination of axis d-d of the grinding wheel, that is, the adjustment of the blade surface inclination to be obtained, is advantageously realised by rotation around a known fulcrum, that is, by rotation around an axis that can advantageously be a controlled processing axis, for example to be changed with substantial continuity based on the ski area (tip, centre or tail) being processed. The grinding wheel inclination adjustment, and therefore of the surface to be obtained, occurs along an interpolation portion between the different ski areas that can require different blade angles (tip, centre, and tail), also allowing a numerical control application of the process itself.
Advantageously, motor 62, or more preferably its casing 64, exhibit at least one arched slot 72, preferably two arched slots obtained on opposed surfaces of the motor, or of the box-shaped casing, which develop along an arched line 74 laying in a vertical plane. In other words, there is provided a curvilinear block or cam that forces axis d-d of the grinding wheel to rotate around a fulcrum consisting of the free corner of the ski blade, as described above. At least two pins 76, preferably three pins 76 are fitted on carriage 66 so that the respective longitudinal axes are substantially parallel to one another and perpendicular to a vertical plane. The intersection points of the axes of pins 76 with a vertical plane lay along an arched line equal to the arched line 74 along which the above slot develops. In the coupling between motor 62 and carriage 66, pins 76 are arranged so as to insert in a corresponding arched slot 72 so that the motor, and therefore the second grinding wheel, may rotate around axis b'-b' relative to carriage 66, as shown by way of an example in figures 14-16.
The means for changing the inclination of axis d-d relative to carriage 66 can further comprise actuating means, for example comprising an arm 78 connected to motor 62, preferably to casing 64, adapted for defining a lever by which motor 62 is made to rotate. An end 78a of arm 78 is operatively associated to adjusting means, for example comprising a threaded member 80, for raising and lowering the end itself and thus rotate both arm 78 and motor 62. The threaded member 80 is operatively associated to carriage 66 so as to move end 78a of arm 78 closer or father relative to a portion of the carriage itself.
A possible embodiment of the means for changing the angulation of axis d-d is illustrated in figures 14-16, wherein for example arm 78 exhibits a fork portion 78b fixed to motor 62, preferably to casing 64, by threaded elements. The fork portion 78b defines the end 78a of arm 78 operatively associated to the adjusting means. In particular, end 78a can comprise a connecting element 84, for example shaped as a plate, connected to the prongs of the fork portion 78b by pins 86. A disc 88 may be fixed to the connecting element 84, to prevent the threaded member clearance. Both the connecting element 84 and disc 88, if present, exhibit a threaded thorough seat adapted for receiving an end of the threaded member 80. The threaded member 80 exhibits a non-threaded portion 80a by which it is fitted into an adjusting block 90 comprising a first portion 90a fixed on two sides to carriage 66, preferably to the side walls 66a, and an actuating portion 90b. According to a possible embodiment, the actuating portion 90b is realised by a manually driven flywheel. According to a possible embodiment, not shown, the actuating portion 90b is realised by a motor suitably controlled and with feedback, similarly to what shown in figure 11 with reference to the first portion 10a of device 10.
Inside the first portion 90a of the adjusting block, the non-threaded portion 80a of the threaded member 80 is free to rotate on bearings 92 and exhibits an abutment plate 94. The non-threaded portion 80a extends beyond the first portion 90a of the adjustment block and is pivoted to the motor shaft 90 (or to the manually driven flywheel). Advantageously, there are provided means 95 for indicating 49 the inclination of axis d-d relative to the horizontal plane, arranged for example between the first portion 90a of the adjustment block 90 and end 78a of arm 78.
The operation of the means for inclining axis d-d of motor 62 relative to carriage 66, similar to that of the means for changing the inclination of axis a-a of motor 20, will be described hereinafter along with the operation of device 10.
According to a possible embodiment, a feeler pin or pin 96 is fitted with vertical axis at the end of an arm 98 in turn fitted on the support element S, preferably on upright 67. The feeler pin 96 is arranged so as to rest against the side surface of the ski or against the side surface 14b of the blade. In other words, the second portion 10b of device 10 adapted for processing the sliding surface 14a of the ski blade comprises a feeler pin 96 adapted for resting against the side surface of the ski or of the blade for following its outline during the relative motion between the ski and device 10 along direction X-X.
Advantageously, feeler pin 96 is arranged at an inside portion of the cup grinding wheel 60, so that the abrasive ring 60a of the cup grinding wheel exhibits an outside edge 60b substantially at the edge 100 delimiting the sliding surface 14a of the blade and the sliding surface 12a of the ski (figure 20) or in any case comprised between the delimiting edge 100 and the lower outside edge 15a of the blade.
In other words, the feeler pin defines a means for limiting the processing area of the grinding wheel so that, especially in the case of a ski with lowered blade as shown in figure 3b, it is possible to process the blade without involving the base.
According to a possible embodiment, arm 98 that supports the feeler pin 96 is made of two parts. A first part 98a is fastened to upright 67 of the support element S, for example by threaded connections, and it exhibits a fork shape. A second part 98b is fitted on the first part 98a by a pin 99a and on a threaded element 99b to adjust its position relative to the grinding wheel abrasive ring.
Advantageously, the above embodiment is especially adapted for processing blades that are lowered compared to the ski, that is, blades realised according to figure 3b.
Even more advantageously, thickness s of the abrasive ring of the second grinding wheel 60 is smaller than width 1 of the sliding surface 14a of the blade, thereby allowing an even easier processing of lowered blades as illustrated for example in figure 3b (figure 20). In particular, the presence of feeler pin 96 and the provision of a grinding wheel with thickness s smaller than width 1 of the blade contribute to limiting the grinding wheel processing only to the blade without interfering with the base in case of conventional skis and allowing optimum blade processing in case of skis with lowered blade, without any interference with step 16.
The support element S with reference to the second portion 10b of device 10 is schematised in figures 10 6a-6c to schematically show the operation of device 10 as described below.
Below is the description of the operation of a device for processing the blades of a ski according to the present invention.
With reference to the first portion 10a of device 10, that is, to the portion adapted for processing the side surface of the blade, the operation is schematically illustrated in figures 4a-4d and 5.
The ski is arranged on the machine seating two devices 10 arranged specularly at opposed sides of the ski relative to axis X-X for processing the two blades at the same time. Based on the type of machine, the ski or the devices 10 are moved along a direction X-X so as to create a relative motion between the ski and the devices themselves to process the blade along its entire extension.
In the description below, reference is made to the operation of a device since the other one has a similar operation.
Starting from a condition in which the support element S has reached the working position along direction Y-Y, the front carriage 24 and the rear carriage 50 move from a rest position (figure 4a) to a sided position (figure 4b) wherein the feeler pins 56 come into contact with the side surface of the ski. In the relative movement between the ski and the first portion 10a of device 10, the feeler pins 56 follow the curvilinear outline of the side ski surface due to the variation of width L along axis X-X (figures 4b-4c). Following the contact between the feeler pins 56 and the side ski surface, the rear carriage 50 and therefore also the front carriage 24 oscillate around axis c-c in a substantially horizontal plane.
To perform the processing of the side surface of blade 14b, the front carriage 24 is made to move forward relative to the rear carriage 50 by the actuator 52 (figure 4d). The further actuator 53 ensures constant contact between the feeler pins 56 and the side ski surface.
The inclination of axis a-a of the first grinding wheel 18 is changed by screwing the threaded member 36 by the flywheel or preferably by motor 44b suitably controlled and with feedback to follow the inclination of the side surface of the blade during the ski processing (figures 11-14). By screwing or unscrewing the threaded member 36, arm 34 is raised or lowered and consequently motor 20 rotates, sliding on pins 32. The advantageous provision of an arched slot sliding on pins, substantially acting as a cam, allows setting such an axis of rotation b-b of the grinding wheel as to abut on the lower outside edge 15a of the blade, that is, on the intersection of the two useful surfaces of the blade. Such movement of the grinding wheel axis allows adjusting the grinding wheel angle during processing, keeping the grinding wheel in contact with the ski. In fact, the fulcrum is kept on the outside corner of the blade and the grinding wheel rotates, optionally suitably controlled, during the relative motion between the ski and device 10 to optionally generate different inclinations of the blade between the tail portion, the central one and the tip portion of the ski.
With reference to the operation of the second portion 10b, that is, to the portion adapted for processing the sliding surface 14a of the blade, figure 6a-6c schematically shows the support element S in come processing stages. From a rest condition (figure 6a), the support element is moved along the direction Y-Y close to the ski to be processed. The position of the grinding wheel along direction Z-Z is defined by actuator 70 and the sliding of carriage 66 along guide 68 of the support element S. The support element S therefore moves forward along direction Y-Y until the feeler pin 96 comes into contact with the side ski surface (figure 6b). Carriage 66 is therefore raised along guide 68, moving the second grinding wheel 60 in contact with the sliding surface of the blade (figure 6c). The inclination of the second grinding wheel 60, that is, of axis d-d, is carried out by screwing or unscrewing the threaded member 80 by the flywheel or more preferably by the controlled command of the motor defining the actuating portion 90b. The advantageous provision of an arched slot sliding on pins, substantially adapted for acting as a cam, allows setting such an axis of rotation b'-b' of the grinding wheel substantially coinciding with the lower outside edge 15a of the blade, that is, with the intersection between the two useful surfaces of the blade. Such movement of the grinding wheel axis allows adjusting the grinding wheel angle during processing, keeping the grinding wheel in contact with the ski. In fact, the fulcrum is kept on the outside corner of the blade and the grinding ewheel rotates, optionally suitably controlled, during the relative motion between the ski and device 10 to optionally generate different inclinations of the blade between the tail portion, the central one and the tip portion of the ski.
From what said above it can be noted that the provision of a device for processing the blades of a ski according to the present invention allows processing also curvilinear side surfaces carefully as in the case of skis whose width varies along the longitudinal ski development. The advantageous provision of feeler pins, and in particular of two feeler pins arranged opposed to the grinding wheel, forces the grinding wheel and the motor to follow the curvilinear outline of the side surface of the blade. The oscillation around the vertical axis c-c of the motor is generated and controlled by the feeler pins themselves kept in constant contact with the ski blade, thanks to the actuator 53. The advantageous provision of two carriages, one adapted for supporting the motor and the other adapted for supporting the feeler pins, allows moving the two carriages relatively, dividing the step of siding and positioning the device on the ski from the step of beginning of the processing or finishing with the grinding wheel moving close to the blade.
Thanks to the provision of at least one feeler pin, preferably two, realised structurally independent from the grinding wheel, it is possible to prevent the device from being stuck along the surface to be processed, and therefore the risk of steps formed on the side blade surface is prevented.
The provision of a movement of adjustment of the inclination of the grinding wheel axis allows choosing the best inclination of the surface of the blade to be processed. Moreover, the original provision of realising such adjustment movement by a controlled motor with feedback, optionally along with the provision of controlling the movement axis of the ski relative to the device or vice versa, allows obtaining the correct inclination of the blade along the entire development axis of the ski X-X.
It is clear that variants and/or additions to the description above may be provided. For example, the two portions 10a and 10b can also be provided independently from one another. Moreover, the means for changing the inclination of the axis of rotation of the grinding wheel can be applied to any type of grinding wheel adapted for processing a surface of a ski blade. [00100] In order to meet special requirements, a man skilled in the art will be able to make several changes, adaptations and replacements of elements with other functionally equivalent ones in the preferred embodiment described above, without departing from the scope of the following claims.

Claims

Device (10) for processing the blades (14) of a ski (12) or snowboard which develops according to a longitudinal axis (X-X), said device (10) and said ski (12) being adapted for moving, one relative to the other, in a relative movement along a direction substantially parallel to the development axis (X-X) of the ski, said device comprising at least one portion (10a) adapted for processing a side surface (14b) of a blade (14) and provided with a side grinding wheel (18) operatively associated to a motor (20), said motor and said grinding wheel being capable of oscillating around an axis (c-c) during the relative movement between the device (10) and the ski (12) to follow the curvilinear outline of the side surface (14a) of the blade relative to the development axis of the ski (X-X) , characterised in that said device (10) comprises at least one feeler pin (56) adapted for coming into contact with the side surface of the ski or of the blade to follow the curvilinear outline of the side surface of the ski or of the blade along the development axis of the ski (X-X) and cause the oscillation of the motor (20) and of the side grinding wheel (18) around the axis (c-c).
Device according to claim 1, wherein said side grinding wheel (18) is a cup grinding wheel rotating around an axis (a-a) arranged transversally to the side surface (14b) of the blade.
Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein there are provided two feeler pins (56) arranged at opposed sides of the side grinding wheel (18) along the development direction of the ski (X-X).
Device according to one of the previous claims, wherein said axis (c-c) around which said motor (20) and said grinding wheel (18) oscillate during the relative movement between the device (10) and the ski (12) is arranged according to a vertical direction, said ski comprising a sliding surface (12a) arranged in a horizontal plane during the blade processing.
Device according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said motor (20) and said side grinding wheel (18) are operatively associated to a rear carriage (50) on which said at least one feeler pin (56) is fitted.
Device according to claim 5, wherein said rear carriage (50) is adapted for being slidingly associated to a guide (26) for moving along an axis (Y'-Y') to move closer or farther from the ski, said axis (Y'-Y') being adapted for oscillating around axis (c-c) relative to an axis (Y-Y) perpendicular to the development direction (X-X) of the ski and parallel to a sliding surface (12a) of the ski itself.
Device according to claim 6, wherein said rear carriage (50) comprises a base (50a), adapted for being slidingly mounted on the guide (26), and two arms (54) extending from the base (50a) towards the side grinding wheel (18), each of said arms supporting a roller or a feeler pin (56) having longitudinal axis arranged so that the two rollers can rest against the side surface of the ski or against the side surface (14b) of the ski blade.
Device according to claim 7, wherein said arms (54) are arranged at opposed sides of the side grinding wheel (18) along the development direction (X-X) of the ski (12).
Device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the axis of each roller (56) is adapted for being arranged perpendicular to the ski axis (X-X) and substantially perpendicular to the sliding surface (12a) of the ski itself.
Device according to one of claims from 6 to 9, wherein said rear carriage (50) and said guide (26) are adapted for being fitted on a support element (S) of a machine for processing ski blades arranged at a side of a seat for the ski so as to oscillate around said axis (c-c).
Device according to any one of claims from 5 to 10, wherein the motor (20) is seated in a front carriage (24) adapted for moving relative to the rear carriage (50) according to a direction (Y'-Y') moving closer to or farther from the ski.
Device according to claim 11, wherein said front carriage (24) is slidingly associated to a guide (26) along which it can be made to move along said axis (Y'-Y') moving closer to or farther from the ski.
Device according to claim 12 when depending on claim 6, wherein the front carriage (24) and the rear carriage (50) are slidingly associated to the same guide (26) and the latter is adapted for being fitted on a support element (S) of a machine for processing ski blades so as to rotate around the axis (c-c).
Device according to any one of claims from 11 to 13, wherein between the front carriage (24) and the rear carriage (50) there is provided an actuator (52), preferably a pneumatic cylinder, for moving the front carriage (24) relative to the rear carriage (50).
Device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein a further actuator (53), preferably a pneumatic cylinder, is provided arranged between the rear carriage (50) and the guide 26.
Device according to one of claims from 12 to 15, wherein the front carriage (24) comprises a lower base (24a), slidingly engaged on the guide (26), and containment walls (24b), for example connected by a traverse (24c) so as to define a seat adapted for receiving the motor (20).
Device according to one of claims from 11 to 16, wherein the grinding wheel (18) is operatively associated to the motor (20) adapted for driving it into rotation around an axis of rotation (a-a) and wherein there are provided means for changing the inclination of the axis (a-a) relative to the front carriage (24) adapted for inclining the abrasive surface (18a) of the side grinding wheel (18) so as to obtain a side surface (14b) of the blade, orthogonal or inclined relative to the direction perpendicular to the sliding surface (12a) of the ski.
Device according to claim 17, wherein the motor (20) and the side grinding wheel (18) are fitted on the front carriage (24) so as to rotate around an axis (b-b) to change the inclination of the abrasive ring (18a) of the side grinding wheel (18) relative to the side surface (14b) of the blade.
Device according to claim 18, wherein said means for changing the inclination of the axis (a-a) are structured so that the axis (b-b) lays on a chord of the grinding wheel adapted for coming into contact with a lower outside edge (15a) of the blade.
Device according to claim 19, wherein the motor (20) exhibits at least one arched slot (28), which develops along an arched line (30) which lays in a plane perpendicular to the sliding surface (12a) of the ski, e and wherein three pins (32) are fitted on the front carriage (24) so that the respective longitudinal axes are substantially parallel to one another and perpendicular to the plane on which the arched slot (30) lays and the intersection points of the axes of the pins (32) with said plane lay along an arched line equal to the arched line (30) along which the above slot develops.
Device according to claim 20, wherein in the coupling between the motor (20) and the front carriage (24), the pins (32) are arranged so as to insert in a corresponding arched slot (72) so that the motor, and therefore the side grinding wheel, may rotate around the axis (b-b) relative to the front carriage (24).
Device according to claim 20 or 21, wherein said means for changing the inclination of the axis (a-a) relative to the front carriage (24) further comprise actuating means.
Device according to claim 22, wherein said actuating means comprise an arm (34) connected to the motor (20) adapted for defining a lever by which the motor (20) is made to rotate.
Device according to claim 23, wherein an end (34a) of the arm (34) is operatively associated to adjusting means comprising a threaded member (36) operatively associated to the front carriage (24) for raising and lowering the end itself and thus rotate both the arm (34) and the motor (20).
Device according to claim 24, wherein the arm (34) exhibits a first portion (34b), fixed to the motor (20) and exhibiting such extension as to protrude from the front carriage (24), and a second portion (34c) fixed to the end of the first portion (34b) opposed to the motor (20).
Device according to claim 25, wherein the second portion (34c) is shaped as an "L" and defines the end (34a) of the arm (34) operatively associated to the adjusting means.
Device according to claim 26, wherein the end (34a) comprises a connecting element (38) connected to the second portion (34c) of the arm (34) by a pin (40).
Device according to claim 27, wherein a disc (42) is fixed to the connecting element (38), both the connecting element (38) and the disc (42) exhibiting a threaded thorough seat adapted for receiving an end of the threaded member (36).
Device according to claim 28, wherein the threaded member (36) exhibits a non-threaded portion (36a) by which it is fitted in an adjustment block (44) comprising a first portion (44a) fixed to the front carriage (24), and an actuating portion (44b).
Device according to claim 29, wherein the actuating portion (44b) is realised by a suitably controlled motor with feedback.
Device according to claim 29 or 30, wherein there are provided means (49) for indicating the inclination of the axis (a-a) relative to a plane parallel to the sliding surface (12a) of the ski.
Device for processing the blades (14) of a ski (12) according to claim 1, the device being a machine comprising:
a seat for receiving a ski which develops along a longitudinal axis (X-X),

at least one device (10) for processing the blades (14) of a ski (12) arranged on a side of the seat relative to the axis (X-X),

means for generating a relative movement between the ski (12) and the device (10) along a direction substantially parallel to the development axis (X-X) of the ski, said device comprising at least one portion (10a) adapted for processing a side surface (14b) of a blade (14) and provided with a side grinding wheel (18) operatively associated to a motor (20), said motor and said grinding wheel being capable of oscillating around an axis (c-c) during the relative motion between the device (10) and the ski (12) to follow the curvilinear outline of the side surface (14a) of the blade relative to the development axis of the ski (X-X) , characterised in that said device (10) comprises at least one feeler pin (56) adapted for coming into contact with the side surface of the ski or of the blade to follow the curvilinear outline of the side surface of the ski or of the blade along the development axis of the ski (X-X) and cause the oscillation of the motor (20) and of the side grinding wheel (18) around the axis (c-c).
Device according to claim 32, wherein said axis (c-c) around which said motor (20) and said grinding wheel can oscillate is orthogonal to the sliding surface (12a) of the ski seated into the machine.
Device according to claim 33, wherein the ski seat is adapted for receiving the ski itself so that the sliding surface (12a) is parallel to a horizontal plane and wherein said axis (c-c) around which said motor (20) and said grinding wheel (18) can oscillate is a vertical axis.
Machine according to claim 33 or 34, wherein said first portion (10a) of the device (10) is fitted on a support element (S) fitted on the machine so as to move along an axis (Y-Y) perpendicular to the axis (X-X) of development of the ski and parallel to the sliding surface (12a) of the ski.
Machine according to claim 35, wherein said first portion (10a) of the device (10) is slidingly fitted on a guide (26) along an axis (Y'-Y') perpendicular to the portion of the side surface of the blade being processed, said guide (26) being fitted on said support element (S) so as to oscillate around said axis (c-c) arranged perpendicularly to the development axis (X-X) of the ski and to the movement axis (Y-Y) of the support element (S).
Machine according to claim 36, wherein said first portion (10a) of the device (10) comprises a front carriage (24) and a rear carriage (50) independently sliding on the guide (26) along the axis (Y'-Y') moving closer and farther from the ski.
Machine according to claim 37, wherein said rear carriage (50) comprises two feeler pins (56) arranged at opposed sides of the side grinding wheel (18) relative to the development axis (X-X) of the ski.