SPINDLE FOR GRINDING MACHINE

Description

FIELD

This application relates generally to grinding (i.e., machining), such as to sharpen, profile, and/or finish, substrates such as blades (i.e., “runners”) of ice skates and other substrates.

BACKGROUND

Various types of substrates such as blades, structural and other metal pieces, etc. have to be ground to sharpen, profile and/or finish them.

For example, an ice skate, such as those used for hockey, speed skating, figure skating and other skating activities, has a blade (or “runner”) with an ice-contacting surface that comes into contact with ice on which a skater skates. Runners require regular sharpening to create sharp edges against the ice. In some cases, runners may also be profiled to impart them with desired longitudinal shapes (i.e., profiles). Such sharpening and/or profiling is typically done by grinding the runners with grinding machines.

The grinding machines use abrasive grinding elements such as grinding wheels mounted to a spindle to grind the runners. Grinding wheels may be unbalanced or become unbalanced over time which can negatively impact performance of the grinding machine (e.g., by reducing a lifespan of the grinding machine, by reducing a quality of the grinding (e.g., sharpening and/or profiling) of the runners, etc.).

Accordingly, improvements in balancing of grinding elements for grinding ice skates'runners and other substrates would be welcomed.

SUMMARY

According to various aspects, there is provided a spindle for rotating a grinding wheel of a grinding apparatus for grinding a substrate (e.g., a runner of a skate), in which the spindle may be self-balancing, adjustable and/or otherwise enhanced to improve use of the grinding apparatus, such as by enabling easy and convenient adjustment of balancing properties of the spindle to balance the grinding wheel so as to provide optimal grinding of the substrate, manufacturing and/or servicing (e.g., maintenance or repair) of the spindle, etc.

For example, according to one aspect, there is provided a spindle for rotating a grinding wheel of a grinding apparatus for grinding a substrate. The spindle comprises a shaft portion for supporting the grinding wheel. The spindle also comprises a balancing mechanism for balancing the grinding wheel. The balancing mechanism is configured to be disposed on the shaft portion adjacent to the grinding wheel. The balancing mechanism comprises a flange comprising an internal cavity configured to receive balancing components movable within the internal cavity during rotation of the grinding wheel. The internal cavity being configured to be accessible to adjust one or more of the balancing components.

In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a grinding apparatus for grinding a runner of a skate. The grinding apparatus comprises a clamp for clamping the runner of the skate during grinding. The grinding apparatus also comprises a grinding mechanism comprising a grinding wheel for grinding the runner of the skate. The grinding apparatus also comprises a spindle for rotating the grinding wheel. The spindle comprises a shaft portion for supporting the grinding wheel. The spindle also comprises a balancing mechanism for balancing the grinding wheel. The balancing mechanism is configured to be disposed on the shaft portion adjacent to the grinding wheel. The balancing mechanism comprises a flange comprising an internal cavity configured to receive balancing components movable within the internal cavity during rotation of the grinding wheel. The internal cavity being configured to be accessible to adjust one or more of the balancing components.

In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a method of manufacturing a spindle for a grinding apparatus for grinding a runner of a skate. The method comprises forming a spindle comprising a shaft portion for mounting a grinding wheel device. The method also comprises forming a balancing mechanism for balancing the grinding wheel configured to be disposed on the shaft portion of the spindle adjacent to the grinding wheel, the balancing mechanism comprising a flange comprising an internal cavity configured to receive balancing components movable within the internal cavity during rotation of the grinding wheel. The method also comprises causing the internal cavity of the balancing mechanism to be accessible after said forming the balancing mechanism to adjust one or more balancing components.

These and other aspects will now become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following description of embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

A detailed description of embodiments is provided below, by way of example only, with reference to drawings annexed hereto, in which:

FIGS. 1 to 3 show an embodiment of a grinding apparatus for grinding a substrate, in which the grinding apparatus is a runner grinding apparatus and the substrate is a runner of a skate;

FIGS. 4 to 8 show components of the runner grinding apparatus and their interaction with external elements;

FIGS. 9A to 12E show an embodiment of some of the components, including a grinding wheel and a spindle, of the runner grinding apparatus;

FIG. 13 shows an embodiment of the skate;

FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of the runner;

FIG. 15 shows the runner worn from use;

FIGS. 16 to 19 show other embodiments of the runner;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the runner of FIG. 14 taken at a longitudinal mid-point of the runner;

FIGS. 21A to 21E show variants of the runner with a variety of radii of curvature;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the runner of FIG. 15 taken at the longitudinal mid-point of the runner; and

FIGS. 23 to 25 show another embodiment of the runner grinding apparatus.

In the drawings, embodiments are illustrated by way of example. It is to be expressly understood that the description and drawings are only for purposes of illustration and as an aid to understanding and are not intended to be and should not be limitative.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1 to 12E show an embodiment of a grinding apparatus 2000 comprising a grinding wheel 100 for grinding (i.e., machining), such as to sharpen and/or profile, a substrate 52. In this embodiment, the substrate 52 is a runner (i.e., blade) of a skate 10 so that the grinding apparatus 2000 is a runner grinding apparatus.

As further discussed below, in this embodiment, the grinding wheel 100 is mounted to a spindle 3003 that is self-balancing, adjustable and/or otherwise enhanced to improve use of the runner grinding apparatus 2000, such as by enabling easy and convenient adjustment of balancing properties of the spindle 3003 to balance the grinding wheel 100 so as to provide optimal sharpening and/or profiling of the runner 52, manufacturing and/or servicing (e.g., maintenance or repair) of the spindle 3003, etc.

An embodiment of the skate 10 for a user (i.e., a “skater”) to skate on ice 13 is shown in FIG. 13. The skate 10 comprises a skate boot 11 for receiving a foot of the user of the skate, the runner 52 (i.e., blade) for contacting the ice 13, and a runner holder 28 between the skate boot 10 and the runner 52 for holding the runner 52.

In this example, the skate 10 is a hockey skate for the skater who is a hockey player playing hockey on the ice 13. FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of the runner 52_h of a hockey skate. In other embodiments, the skate 10 may be a figure skate for the skater who is a figure skater skating on the ice 13. FIG. 16 shows an embodiment of the runner 52_f for a figure skate. In yet other embodiments, the skate 10 may be a speed skate for the skater who is a speed skater skating on the ice 13. FIG. 17 shows an embodiment of the runner 52_s for a speed skate. In yet other embodiments, the skate 10 may be a bandy skate, a touring skate or any other skate for skating on the ice 13. Reference to the runner “52” herein is made generically (to generally refer to any runner including runners 52_h, 52_f, 52_s, unless otherwise indicated). For ease of reference, features of the runner 52 that are common to the runners 52_h, 52_f, 52_s, will be ascribed the same reference numerals when referencing the runners 52_h, 52_f, 52_s.

As the skate 10 is used, the runner 52 usually becomes worn. Wear of the runner 52 causes gradual blunting of edges of the runner 52. Thus, the runner 52 must be sharpened periodically or otherwise processed (e.g., profiled) by a runner grinding apparatus, such as the runner grinding apparatus 2000.

Referring to FIG. 14, the runner 52 comprises a first end 27 and a second end 29. In this embodiment, the first end 27 of the runner 52 may be generally located at a front 41 of a skate 10 such that the first end 27 may also be referred to as a “toe end” of the runner 52. In this embodiment, the second end 29 of the runner 52 may be generally located at a rear 45 of the skate 10 such that the second end 29 may also be referred to as a “heel end” of the runner 52. The runner 52 extends in a longitudinal orientation between the first end 27 and the second end 29 (i.e., the runner 52 is elongate along a longitudinal axis 59). The distance between the first and second ends 27, 29 of the runner 52 can be referred to as the length of the runner 52, denoted L. A longitudinal mid-point 49 of the runner 52 can also be defined as being half-way between the first and second ends 27, 29 of the runner 52. In some cases, the longitudinal mid-point 49 of the runner 52 may be identified by a mark on the runner 52.

With continued reference to FIG. 14 (which shows a side view of the runner 52) and with reference to FIG. 20 (which shows a cross-sectional view at the longitudinal mid-point 49 of the runner 52), the runner 52 includes ice-contacting material 140 which defines a lateral surface 148 and an opposite lateral surface 143. The ice-contacting material 140 includes an ice-contacting surface 127 for sliding on ice 13 while the skater skates, as well as for digging into the ice 13 to provide traction when the skater accelerates, decelerates or changes directions. The runner 52 also comprises a top surface 125 that is opposed to the ice-contacting surface 127. The ice-contacting surface 127 lies in a plane with a normal that is perpendicular to the normal of the lateral surfaces 148, 143 of the runner 52. The runner 52 comprises a thickness t_b which is defined as the distance between the lateral surfaces 148, 143. A transverse midplane 91 may be defined mid-way between the lateral surfaces 148, 143.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 18, the runner 52 may comprise a plurality of connectors 185₁, 185₂ to connect the runner 52 to the runner holder 28 of the skate 10. More particularly, the connectors 185₁, 185₂ extend upwardly from the top surface 125 of the runner 52. In the embodiment shown, the connectors 185₁, 185₂ comprise hooks 30₁, 30₂ that project upwardly from the top surface 125 of the runner 52, with the hook 30₁ being a front hook and the hook 30₂ being a rear hook. The connectors 185₁, 185₂ may be configured in any other suitable fashion.

In this embodiment, the ice-contacting material 140 is a metallic material (e.g., stainless steel, titanium). The ice-contacting material 140 may be any other suitable material in other embodiments. Also, in this embodiment, an entirety of the runner 52 is made of the ice-contacting material 140.

In some variants, the runner 52 may be made of different materials or combinations of materials. These include metal-and-polymer hybrid (where the polymer may be purely polymeric or fiber-reinforced) and coated metal where the coating may include a carbide, nitride, oxide, etc.

For example, the runner 52 may include a plurality of different materials M₁-M₃ disposed in different areas of the runner 52 and connected to each other, as shown in FIG. 19. For example, the material M may be disposed in a first portion 110 of the runner 52, the materials M₂ and M₃ may be disposed in a second portion 114 of the runner 52 secured to the first portion 110 of the runner 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the material M₁ is a polymeric material 151 and the materials M₂, M₃ are metallic materials 150. For instance, the material M₁ may be a composite material comprising a polymeric matrix 120 and fibers 122₁-122_F disposed in the polymeric matrix 120.

The polymeric matrix 120 may include any suitable substance (e.g., resin). For instance, in some examples, the polymeric matrix 120 may include a thermoplastic or thermosetting resin, such as epoxy, polyethylene, polypropylene, acrylic, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyether ether ketone (PEEK) or other polyaryletherketone (PAEK), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), nylon, polyimide, polysulfone, polyamide-imide, self-reinforcing polyphenylene, polyester, vinyl ester, vinyl ether, polyurethane, cyanate ester, phenolic resin, etc., a hybrid thermosetting-thermoplastic resin, or any other suitable resin. In this embodiment, the polymeric matrix 120 includes an epoxy resin.

The fibers 122₁-122_F may be made of any suitable material such as carbon fiber, polymeric fibers such as aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar fibers), boron fibers, silicon carbide fibers, metallic fibers, glass fibers, ceramic fibers, etc. The fibers 122₁-122_F may be oriented in any suitable fashion and may have a continuous configuration.

In the case of a coated runner 52, the coating may comprise a thin film coating of any suitable thickness. The thin film may be deposited using techniques know in the art such as physical vapor deposition (PVD) or plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition (PACVD) for example.

The thin film coating may comprise a carbon-based top layer. A number of underlayers may be provided, between the substrate and the carbon-based top layer. The underlayers may be in metals, such as Cr, Ti, TiAl, Ni and W for example; nitrides, such as CrN, TiN and TiAlN for example; oxides; carbides; or they can be siliceous or carbon based layers for example (a-C:H (DLC), ta-C, WCC, . . . ). Other materials having a low friction coefficient may be contemplated, such as solid film lubricants or polymers such as PTFE for example.

The ice-contacting surface 127 of the runner 52 is not flat, but rather is curved. This allows the skate 10 to tilt forward or backward with respect to the ice 13, which gives the skater agility when taking off or changing directions. As can be seen from FIG. 14, the first and second ends 27, 29 are curved upwards such that the first end 27 of the runner 52 includes a curved region 35 and the second end 29 of the runner 52 includes a curved region 37. The ice-contacting surface 127 defines a contour of the ice-contacting material 140 when viewed from the side as in FIG. 14; such contour is referred to as a “longitudinal profile” LP of the runner 52. A balance point 99 of the runner 52 may be defined as the lowest point along the contour of the runner 52. In some cases, the balance point 99 corresponds to the longitudinal mid-point 49 of the runner 52. In other cases, the balance point 99 does not correspond to the longitudinal mid-point 49 of the runner 52. The longitudinal profile LP may have a generally convex shape and the transverse profile TP may have a generally concave shape.

When viewed in cross-section as in FIG. 20, the ice-contacting surface 127 also defines a contour referred to as a “transverse profile” TP of the runner 52. The transverse profile TP may have the shape of an arc (convex or concave) with a radius referred to as a “radius of hollow” 88. By way of certain examples, as shown in FIGS. 21A to 21E, the radius of hollow 88 may vary from ⅜″ to 1″ (shown in this case for a 0.12″ thick runner 52). Other radii of hollow 88 and runner thicknesses t_b are of course possible. In some cases, the average radius of curvature of the transverse profile TP may be vary from ¼″ to 2″.

With continued reference to FIG. 20, the runner 52 comprises a first edge 55 and a second edge 57 opposing the first edge 55. As indicated above, as the skate 10 is used, the wear of the runner 52 causes gradual blunting of the edges of the runner 52. Referring now to FIG. 22, there is shown a runner 52_w which is substantially worn, with the edges 55, 57 of the worn runner 52_w that appear blunted. Additionally, the edges 55, 57 are unlevel (i.e., the edges 55, 57 are not symmetrical about the transverse midplane 91 of the runner 52_w). Moreover, the radius of hollow 88 of the runner 52_w appears “flattened.” Thus, excess material 63 of the ice-contacting material 140 of the ice-contacting surface 127 of the worn runner 52_w must be removed to restore the edges 55, 57 and the radius of hollow 88.

Accordingly, it is necessary to machine the transverse profile TP of the runner 52 (e.g., to grind for sharpening the runner 52) and apply the radius of hollow 88. To machine the transverse profile TP of the runner 52 and apply the radius of hollow 88, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may be used. Grinding the runner 52 with the runner grinding apparatus 2000 causes the runner 52 to become shaped in the widthwise direction (perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction) with a “transverse profile” TP. Grinding the runner 52 with the runner grinding apparatus 2000 removes excess material from the ice-contacting surface 127 of the runner 52 such that the runner 52 is ground. Additionally or alternatively, in some cases, the runner 52 may be ground with the runner grinding apparatus 2000 to become shaped in its longitudinal direction with a desired longitudinal profile LP, a grinding operation that may be referred to as “profiling” the runner 52.

With renewed reference now to FIGS. 1 to 12E, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 has a housing 2080 containing various components. In FIGS. 1 to 3, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 is shown extending in a longitudinal orientation between a first end 2081 of the housing 2080 of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 and a second end 2082 of the housing 2080 of the runner grinding apparatus 2000. The housing 2080 of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 comprises a frame 2078 supporting various components and includes a lower surface 2083, an upper surface 2084, a front surface 2085 and a rear surface 2086.

The longitudinal orientation of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 extends along an x-direction of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 defined by an “X axis”. A y-direction of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 is defined by a “Y axis” perpendicular to the X axis. A z-direction of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 is defined by a “Z axis” perpendicular to both the X axis and the Y axis.

In this embodiment, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 includes a clamping mechanism 2010 for clamping the runner 52. The runner grinding apparatus 2000 also includes a grinding mechanism 2020 which comprises the grinding wheel 100 that is an abrasive element. Removal of excess material of the ice-contacting material 140 from the runner 52 is achieved when the grinding wheel 100 contacts the ice-contacting surface 127 of the runner 52 from underneath the runner 52. As such, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 includes a carriage 2030 for allowing relative movement between the clamping mechanism 2010 (which holds the runner 52) and the grinding mechanism 2020.

The runner grinding apparatus 2000 also includes a control system 2048 comprising a controller 2050 for controlling operation thereof (e.g., including grinding operations, interactions with a user, etc.). In this embodiment, the controller 2050 comprises a user interface 2055 configured to interact (e.g., receive commands and/or other inputs from and/or provide information to) a user who desires to use the runner grinding apparatus 2000. The user interface 2055 comprises an input portion including one or more input devices (e.g., a touchscreen, a set of buttons, levers, dials, a microphone, etc.) allowing the user to input commands and/or other information into the runner grinding apparatus 2000 and an output portion including one or more output devices (e.g., a display, a speaker, etc.) to provide information to the user. In some embodiments, the user interface 2055 comprises a screen 2056 that implements a graphical user interface (GUI) providing graphical elements for interaction with the user, including graphical buttons and/or other graphical input elements actuatable by the user to control operation of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 as well as graphical alphanumeric characters, counters, charts, gauges, and/or other graphical output elements displaying information to the user.

In this embodiment, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 is powered by an external power source. More particularly, in this embodiment, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 comprises a power supply connectable to an electric outlet via an electric cable. In other embodiments, the power supply of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may comprise a battery (e.g., a rechargeable or replaceable battery), so that the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may be usable without power from an external power source.

The clamping mechanism 2010 includes a runner-receiving portion 2013 for receiving a runner 52 loaded in the runner grinding apparatus 2000 and a clamp 2016 comprising one or more retaining elements 2011 to retain the runner 52 loaded in the runner grinding apparatus 2000. The clamping mechanism 2010 also includes a clamp-actuating mechanism 2040 for actuating the clamp 2016 to retain the runner 52 in the clamping mechanism 2010 or to release the runner 52 from the clamping mechanism 2010. The clamping mechanism 2010 may also include a runner-centering mechanism 2014 for longitudinally and/or laterally center the runner 52 within the clamping mechanism 2010.

To remove some of the ice-contacting material 140 to sharpen and/or profile it, the runner 52 is loaded in the runner-receiving portion 2013 of the clamping mechanism 2010 and brought into contact with the grinding wheel 100 of the grinding mechanism 2020 such that the runner 52 contacts the grinding wheel 100 and such that the grinding wheel 100 removes material from the ice-contacting surface 127 of the runner 52.

In this embodiment, the runner-receiving portion 2013 of the clamping mechanism 2010 is configured as a slot 2012 which provides access to the grinding mechanism 2020 and the runner 52 is received in the slot 2012 of the clamping mechanism 2010. The one or more retaining elements 2011 of the clamp 2016 are configured to contact the lateral surfaces 148, 143 of the runner 52 to secure the runner 52 within the clamping mechanism 2010. Additionally or alternatively, in other embodiments, the one or more retaining elements 2011 may be configured to contact the first and second ends 27, 29 of the runner 52 to secure the runner 52 within the clamping mechanism 2010.

More particularly, in this embodiment, the one or more retaining elements 2011 comprise two plates configured to contact the lateral surfaces 148, 143 of the runner 52. In this case, the one or more retaining elements 2011 comprise a first blade contacting surface 5115 and a second blade contacting surface 5116 each configured to contact the lateral surfaces 148, 143 of the runner 52 and to retain the runner 52 by applying pressure to the lateral surfaces 148, 143 of the runner 52. In some embodiments, the first and second blade contacting surfaces 5115, 5116 may comprise material configured to increase their frictional engagement with the lateral surfaces 148, 143 of the runner 52 when contacting the lateral surfaces 148, 143 of the runner 52. The one or more retaining elements 2011 may comprise any suitable material (e.g., a metallic material, a polymeric material, etc.).

In this example, both of the retaining elements 2011 are movable towards each other to retain the runner 52 within the runner-receiving portion 2013 of the clamping mechanism 2010. In other examples, a first retaining elements 2011 may be fixed with respect to the runner grinding apparatus 2000 and a second retaining element 2011 may be movable towards the first retaining elements 2011 to retain the runner 52 (or vice-versa) within the runner-receiving portion 2013 of the clamping mechanism 2010.

The one or more retaining elements 2011 may be adjustable to accommodate a variety of runners 52 (e.g., a variety of blade thicknesses tb, a variety of blade lengths L, one runner 52 or a plurality of runners 52). For example, the one or more retaining elements 2011 may be movable with respect to each other or with respect to the runner 52 to accommodate a variety of runners 52. Also, while in some cases only one runner 52 is loaded into and retained by the retaining elements 2011 of the clamp 2016 and grinded by the grinding wheel 2021, in other cases two or more runners 52 may be loaded into and retained by the retaining elements 2011 of the clamp 2016 simultaneously so that these two or more runners 52 are grinded simultaneously by the grinding wheel 2021.

The clamp-actuating mechanism 2040 is provided for actuating the clamp 2016 to retain or release the runner 52. The clamp-actuating mechanism 2040 may cooperate with the runner-centering mechanism 2014 to longitudinally and/or laterally center the runner 52 within the clamping mechanism 2010. Specifically, the runner-centering mechanism 2104 may cause the one or more retaining elements 2011 to longitudinally and/or laterally center the runner 52 within the clamping mechanism 2010 with respect to the runner-receiving portion 2013 of the clamping mechanism 2010. The clamp-actuating mechanism 2040 may cooperate with the runner-centering mechanism 2014 to automatically longitudinally and/or laterally center the runner 52 within the clamping mechanism 2010. In this embodiment, the clamp-actuating mechanism 2040 may comprises an actuator (e.g., a motor or linear actuator) configured to move the clamp 2016 for retaining or releasing the runner 52 based on one or more signals from the controller 2050, which can be generated in response to input to the controller 2050 from a user and/or one or more sensors of the control system 2048, or may be operated manually by the user.

The grinding operation of the runner 52 involves relative movement of the grinding mechanism 2020 and the runner 52.

In this embodiment, the carriage 2030 is configured to translate the runner 52 longitudinally (along the X-axis) as the grinding mechanism 2020 is operative to remove excess material from the runner 52. In this example, the grinding mechanism 2020 remains fixed longitudinally (along the X-axis) and is movable vertically (along the Y-axis).

More particularly, in this embodiment, a drive assembly 2032 provides motive force to move the carriage 2030 carrying the runner 52 longitudinally relative to the grinding wheel 100. Any suitable means for smoothly moving the carriage 2030, such as a belt, a lead screw, a feed screw etc. connected to motor, may be used. A spring-loaded member 2049 including a spring acts on an arm 2046 carrying the grinding wheel 100 and allows the grinding wheel 100 to move along the Y axis (e.g., vertically up and down) as it travels under the runner 52.

To remove excess material, the runner 52 is loaded in the clamping mechanism 2010 and brought into contact with the grinding wheel 100 of the grinding mechanism 2020 driven in rotation such that the grinding wheel 100 removes material from the ice-contacting surface 127 of the runner 52.

In this embodiment, the grinding mechanism 2020 includes the spindle 3003, which implements an axle to which the grinding wheel 100 is mounted, and a grinding wheel motor 2027 configured to rotate the spindle 3003 to drive the grinding wheel 100. In this example, the grinding wheel motor 2027 drives a belt which drives the spindle 3003. In this case, the belt is configured to engage a hub 3037 mounted to the spindle 3003 to drive the spindle 3003. The grinding mechanism 2020 may be configured in any other suitable fashion (e.g., the grinding wheel motor 2027 may be directly connected to the spindle 3003).

The grinding mechanism 2020 rotates the spindle 3003 at a rotational speed such that the grinding wheel 100 rotates about an axis of rotation 112 defined by the spindle 3003. The rotational speed may have any suitable value. For example, the rotational speed may be between 5,000 and 25,000 revolutions per minute (RPM). The rotational speed may be constant or variable (i.e., the rotational speed may vary as the grinding wheel 100 and the runner 52 move with respect to each other along a portion or all of the length L of the runner 52). For example, the rotational speed may be varied by varying the voltage applied to the grinding wheel motor 2027. In some embodiments, the rotation speed may be selected by the user of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 upon setup of the grinding operation.

The grinding mechanism 2020 may be activated for a period of time before the grinding wheel 100 comes into contact with the runner 52 such that the grinding wheel 100 may reach the desired rotation speed prior to grinding the runner 52.

As the grinding wheel 100 grinds the runner 52, the grinding wheel 100 exerts pressure on the runner 52. Thus, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may include a pressure regulating mechanism 2060 to ensure that a correct grinding wheel pressure is applied against the runner 52 during the grinding operation. The pressure regulating mechanism 2060 may include means to adjust the pressure applied to the runner 52 by the grinding wheel 100. For example, in one example of implementation, the pressure applied to the runner 52 by the grinding wheel 100 may be increased by the user of the runner grinding apparatus 2000. In such cases, the grinding operation may be completed more quickly.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the controller 2050 of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 comprises a processor 500, a non-transitory memory 510 including various databases 511 for storing information used by processes, sensors 520 for sensing a variety of parameters related to the grinding operation, and an input/output module 531 for entering selections and displaying information, and may include any other suitable components.

The processor 500 may include one or more central processing units (CPUs) having one or more cores. The processor 500 may also include at least one graphics processing unit (GPU) in communication with a video encoder/video codec (coder/decoder, not shown) for causing output data to be supplied to the input/output module 531 for display on a display device 532 (e.g., the screen 2056). The processor 500 may also include at least one audio processing unit in communication with an audio encoder/audio codec (coder/decoder, not shown) for causing output data to be supplied to the input/output module 531 to an auditory device (e.g., a speaker).

The memory 510 may include RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), flash memory, hard disk drive(s), and/or any other suitable memory device, technology or configuration. The memory 510 stores a variety of information including computer-readable instructions 85. The memory 510 may be in communication with the processor 500 which is configured to execute the computer-readable instructions 85 such that the processor 500 is able to perform various kinds of functions related to the processes it encodes.

The controller 2050 may be an electronic controller that can include a microprocessor and a plurality of communication ports to communicate with one or more components of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 such as the clamping mechanism 2010, the carriage 2030, the grinding mechanism 2020, and the pressure regulating mechanism 2060.

The sensors 520 (e.g., cameras, optical scanners, photosensors, contact sensors such as depth gauges or micrometers, non-contact sensors such as lasers, vibration detectors, etc.) are configured to detect a plurality of other parameters required for the grinding operation.

For example, the sensors 520 may be configured to detect a location of the runner 52 within the housing 2080 of the runner grinding apparatus 2000. The sensors 520 may be configured to detect a position of the carriage 2030 and/or the grinding mechanism 2020 including the grinding wheel 100 within the housing 2080 of the runner grinding apparatus 2000. The sensors 520 may be configured to detect the relative position of the runner 52 and carriage 2030 and/or the grinding wheel 100. For example, the sensors 520 may provide feedforward data (e.g., monitoring the control signals issued to the carriage 2030 or the grinding wheel 100) and/or feedback data (e.g., data obtained from a laser or camera or contact-based position sensor, for example).

The memory 510 may store various databases 511 storing information required for the grinding operation. For example, the memory 510 may store a database 511 storing material removal amounts with different levels of wear (i.e., wear states) of grinding wheels such as the grinding wheel 100. The memory 510 may store a database 511 storing information regarding various runners 52, for example a material of the runner 52, the hardness of the runner 52, identifiers of the runner 52, a manufacturer and/or model of the runner 52. The memory 510 may store a database 511 storing vibration measurements associated with different levels of wear (i.e., wear states) of grinding wheels.

The input/output module 531 of the GUI 530 of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 is configured such that the user of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may enter selections relating to the grinding operation of the runner 52. In some embodiments, the input/output module 531 of may include one or more input devices 533 (e.g., a touchscreen, buttons, a keyboard, a joystick, a touch pad, a keypad, a trackball, and the like) and one or more output devices such as the display device 532 (e.g., a screen which may be a touchscreen, etc.).

The GUI 530 of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may include one or more indicators 534. The indicators 534 may provide cues or instructions to the user of the runner grinding apparatus 2000. For example, the GUI 530 may include a visual indicator (e.g., lights, icons, images) to guide the user during operation of the runner grinding apparatus 2000. The GUI 530 of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may include an audible indicator (e.g., a speaker) configured to provide verbal instructions, a tone, a chime, or other suitable audible messages.

In this embodiment, the GUI 530 may be implemented as a console 535 integrated within the runner grinding apparatus 2000 to provide interactive capabilities.

With the runner 52 loaded in the clamping mechanism 2010, grinding (e.g., for sharpening and/or profiling) can proceed. By causing the grinding wheel 100 to rotate and by placing the rotating grinding wheel 100 in contact with the ice-contacting surface 127 of the runner 52, the ice-contacting surface 127 will be ground.

Referring to FIG. 9A, in this embodiment, the spindle 3003 comprises a shaft portion 3007 which implements its axle and to which the grinding wheel 100 is mountable. The shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003 supports the grinding wheel 100. The shaft portion 3007 defines the axis of rotation 112 of the grinding wheel 100. The shaft portion 3007 includes a first end 3006 and a second end 3008 that is longitudinally opposite to the first end 3006. In this embodiment, the first end 3006 comprises a threaded portion 3010 and an unthreaded portion 3012.

The grinding wheel 100 is mountable to the spindle 3003 proximate the first end 3006 of the shaft portion 3007 and is secured by a grinding device fastening assembly 3022. In this embodiment, the grinding device fastening assembly 3022 includes a fastener 3002 and a washer 3004. In this example of implementation, the fastener 3002 is a threaded fastener. Specifically, in this embodiment, the threaded fastener 3002 is a nut that is fastened to the threaded portion 3010 of the shaft portion 3007. Also, in this embodiment, the washer 3004 is engaged by the nut 3002 to distribute pressure on an underlying part 159 of the grinding wheel 100 when the nut 3002 is tightened.

At least a portion of a surface 3049 of the washer 3004 which contacts at least a portion of the underlying part 159 of the grinding wheel 100 may comprise material configured to increase frictional engagement between the surface 3049 of the washer 3004 and the underlying part 159 of the grinding wheel 100 contacted by the washer 3004. Similarly, at least a portion of the underlying part 159 of the grinding wheel 100 of the grinding wheel 100 contacting the surface 3049 of the washer 3004 may comprise material configured to increase frictional engagement between the surface 3049 of the washer 3004 and the underlying part 159 of the grinding wheel 100 contacted by the washer 3004. In other embodiments, both the surface 3049 of the washer 3004 and the underlying part 159 of the grinding wheel 100 may comprise material configured to increase their frictional engagement.

In this embodiment, the spindle 3003 includes a grinding wheel mounting portion 3013. The grinding wheel mounting portion 3013 includes a grinding wheel mount 3025. The grinding wheel mounting portion 3013 is provided for seating of the grinding wheel 100 on the spindle 3003. The grinding wheel mounting portion 3013 is disposed adjacent the unthreaded portion 3012 of the shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003 such that the unthreaded portion 3012 is disposed between the threaded portion 3010 and the grinding wheel mounting portion 3013.

In this example of implementation, the grinding wheel 100 is mounted to the spindle 3003 by inserting the first end 3006 of the shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003 through an aperture 3053 of the grinding wheel 100 such that the aperture 3053 is disposed concentrically about the grinding wheel mount 3025. The washer 3004 is placed adjacent to the grinding wheel 100 through the first end 3006 of the shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003 and the nut 3002 engages the threaded portion 3010 of the shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003 to fasten the grinding wheel 100 to the spindle 3007.

In this embodiment, the grinding wheel mount 3025 has a circular in cross-section. The grinding wheel mount 3025 may have any suitable dimension (e.g., circumference, diameter, radius, cross-sectional area, height, etc.). A dimension of the wheel mount 3025 is such that there is a suitable fit between the aperture 3053 of the grinding wheel 100 and the wheel mount 3025 (e.g., interference fit, transition fit, or clearance fit).

The grinding wheel mount 3025 also includes a recess 3062. The recess 3062 is configured to receive a seal 3060. The seal 3060 is disposed within the recess 3062 to interface with the grinding wheel 100 and the grinding wheel mount 3025. The seal 3060 centers the grinding wheel 100 on the axis 112 of the spindle 3003. The seal 3060 also allows for a wider tolerance range for greater variation of the aperture 3053 of the grinding wheel 100. The seal 3060 may comprise any suitable mechanical gasket (e.g., O-ring, etc.). The seal 3060 may comprise any suitable material (e.g., a rubber material, an elastomeric material, PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) material, cork, etc.).

In some embodiments, the spindle 3003 also includes a rotating assembly 3005. The rotating assembly includes a hub 3017 which comprises a body 3019. The hub 3037 is configured to engage the hub 3017 to transfer the rotation from the motor 2027 to the spindle 3003 and thus to the grinding wheel 100. In some embodiments, the hub 3037 is configured to frictionally engage with the hub 3017. In other embodiments, the hub 3037 is configured to be fastened to the hub 3017. In yet other embodiments, the rotating assembly 3005 may be omitted. For instance, in some cases, the hub 3017 transfers the rotation from the motor 2027 to the grinding wheel 100.

In this embodiment, the rotating assembly 3005 is disposed on the shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003 between the first end 3006 of the shaft portion 3007 and the second end 3008 of the shaft portion 3007.

In this embodiment, the body 3019 is hollow and a plurality of ball bearings 3066, a spacer 3032 and a washer 3046 are disposed longitudinally within the partially hollow body 3019 of the hub 3017. In this example of implementation, two ball bearings 3066-1, 3066-2 are provided and spaced longitudinally from one another by the spacer 3032.

The spacer 3032 is provided to separate the bearings 3066-1, 3066-2. The spacer 3032 may create a longer and more stable drive path, which in turn may provide for more efficient/better absorption of radial loads.

In this example of implementation, the washer 3046 is a wave washer. The washer 3046 may improve running accuracy by reducing runout of spindle 3003 (e.g., to reduce the degree to which the spindle 3003 deviates from its true circular rotation). The washer 3046 is also provided to heighten position accuracy in radial and axial directions. The washer 3046 may also compensate for temperature fluctuations in the rotating assembly 3005.

In other embodiments, less or more ball bearings 3066 may be included. In other embodiments, the spacer 3032 and/or the washer 3046 may be omitted.

In this embodiment, the spindle 3003 includes a hub mounting portion 3015 configured to engage the rotating assembly 3005. In the example of implementation, the hub mounting portion 3015 includes a hub mount 3055 which is configured to be disposed at least partially within the hub 3017.

In this embodiment, the hub mount 3055 has a circular cross-section. The hub mount 3055 may have any suitable dimension (e.g., circumference, diameter, radius, cross-sectional area, height, etc.). A dimension of the hub mount 3055 is such that there is a suitable fit between the hub 3017 and the wheel hub mount 3055 (e.g., interference fit, transition fit, or clearance fit).

In this embodiment, the body 3019 of the hub 3017 accommodates at least a portion of the hub mount 3055 and a portion of the shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003 which extends through the body 3019. In this example of implementation, the plurality of ball bearings 3066, the spacer 3032 and the washer 3046 are configured to be disposed about the portion of the shaft portion 3007 which extend through the body 3019 of the hub 3017. In this case, one of the plurality of ball bearings 3066, ball bearing 3066-1, is disposed adjacent the hub mount 3055. In this example of implementation, a portion of the ball bearing 3066-1 contacts the hub mount 3055.

Referring to FIGS. 9A to 12E, the spindle 3003 also comprises a balancing mechanism 3009 disposed on the shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003 adjacent to the grinding wheel 100. The balancing mechanism 3009 is configured to balance the grinding wheel 100 as it rotates about the spindle 3003.

The grinding wheel 100 may be unbalanced or become unbalanced over time due to an unbalanced distribution of mass across the grinding wheel 100 (i.e., an offset between a mass (i.e., inertial centerline) of the grinding wheel 100 and a geometric centerline (i.e., rotational centerline) such that these centerlines do not coincide). In such cases, a center of gravity (i.e., inertial center/mass center) of the grinding wheel 100 may be offset from a centroid (i.e., geometric center) of the grinding wheel 100 such that a center of gravity axis is offset from a centroidal axis of the grinding wheel 100.

An unbalanced distribution of mass across the grinding wheel 100 may be caused by one or more factors including debris on the grinding wheel (e.g., dirt, metal shavings or other materials), loss of material of the grinding wheel (e.g., due to wear or cavitation), improper manufacturing of the grinding wheel (e.g., due to poor castings, incorrect roundness, etc.), loss of a part of the grinding wheel (e.g., loss of a weight to balance the grinding wheel 100, loss of a fastener, etc.), etc.

An unbalanced grinding wheel may generate undesirable mechanical effects such as vibrations, resonance, etc. and/or cause grinding chatter, when the grinding wheel 100 rotates. Such undesirable mechanical effects may negatively impact performance of the grinding apparatus and/or reduce a usable lifespan of the grinding apparatus. For instance, an unbalanced grinding wheel 100 cause sub-optimal grinding of the runner 52 (e.g., by providing sub-optimal surface finish quality of the ice-contacting surface 127 of the runner 52, for instance by generating chatter marks on the ice-contacting surface 127 of the runner 52), increase stress and damage imposed on the grinding apparatus 2000 and its components (e.g., bearings and seals), increase resonance and loosening of components of the grinding apparatus 2000 and/or cause the grinding wheel to become further out of balance, etc.

The balancing mechanism 3009 of the spindle 3003 comprises a flange 3014. The flange includes a first lateral surface 3034, a second lateral surface 3036 opposite the first lateral surface 3034 and a circumferential surface 3038 extending circumferentially between the first and the second lateral surfaces 3034, 3036. When the grinding wheel 100 is mounted to the shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003 as described above, in some cases, at least a portion of the grinding wheel 100 contacts the first lateral surface 3034. In this embodiment, when the rotating assembly 3005 is mounted to the shaft portion 3007, the rotating assembly 3005 is disposed adjacent to the second lateral surface 3036 of the flange 3014. In this example of implementation, the rotating assembly 3005 is configured to be spaced from the flange 3014. In other cases, the rotating assembly 3005 may be configured to contact the flange 3014.

The flange 3014 includes an internal cavity 3035. The internal cavity 3035 is disposed radially about an adjacent portion 3033 of the shaft portion 3007. The internal cavity 3035 is configured to receive one or more balancing components 3041 disposed within the internal cavity 3035. The balancing components are movable within the internal cavity 3035 during rotation of the grinding wheel 100. The balancing components 3041 may include one or more separate balancing masses 3018 (e.g., bearings) and/or a fluid 3020.

The balancing components 3041 are configured to balance an unbalanced grinding wheel 100 so as to enhance grinding performance of the grinding wheel 100 by mitigating the negative effects of an unbalanced grinding device as described above. Additionally, the balancing mechanism 3009 may also provide more even and linear grinding results for a grinding wheel 100 which is balanced.

The bearings 3018 are configured to provide a counterweight to balance the unbalanced mass distribution of the grinding wheel 100 as the grinding wheel 100 rotates. As the grinding wheel 100 rotates, the bearings 3018 are free to move (e.g., rotate) within the internal cavity 3035 and radially about the shaft portion 3007. As the bearings 3018 travel, centrifugal forces push the bearings 3018 away from the shaft portion 3007 and the bearings 3018 distribute themselves evenly with respect to one another. Accordingly, to balance the grinding wheel 100, the bearings 3018 assume a position which causes the inertial axis of the grinding wheel 100 to reposition itself onto the axis of rotation 112 of the grinding wheel 100. Thus, the balancing components 3041 counteract/offset imbalances in the grinding wheel 100 by distributing forces equally about the grinding wheel 100 without having to locate the imbalance ahead of time (i.e., it is not required to find a location of eccentricity, measure of eccentricity or quantity of mass required ahead of time). Thus, the balancing mechanism 3009 is suitable to cope with applications where the amount of imbalance varies with operating conditions and/or over time. In this way, the balancing mechanism 3009 can be said to be “self-balancing”.

In this embodiment, the balancing mechanism 3009 includes a radial damping recess 3016 which constitutes part of the internal cavity 3035 and the balancing components 3041 are disposed within the damping recess 3016. The damping recess 3016 is disposed at a fixed radial distance from the shaft portion 3007 (i.e., from the axis of rotation 112). The damping recess 3016 may be disposed at any suitable radial distance from the shaft portion 3007.

In this embodiment, the damping recess 3016 comprises a u-shaped cross-section. In other embodiments, the damping recess 3016 may include any other suitable cross-section (e.g., a circular cross-section, an elliptical cross-section, etc.). A width WD and a depth DD of the damping recess 3016 may have any suitable dimension. For instance, the width WD and/or depth DD of the damping recess 3016 may have any suitable size so as to receive the balancing components 3041 with a sufficient amount of clearance (e.g., a sufficient amount of clearance to allow the bearings 3018 to travel within the damping recess 3016 based on a size of the bearings 3018, a sufficient amount of clearance to accommodate a sufficient quantity of the fluid 3020, etc.).

The bearings 3018 are masses which act to counterweigh the imbalance of the grinding wheel 100 as the spindle 3003 rotates the grinding wheel 100. In this embodiment, the bearings 3018 are spherical. The bearings 3018 may be defined by their mass (e.g., grams, ounces, etc.). The bearings 3018 also comprise a material. In some embodiments, the bearings 3018 may comprise a metallic material. In other embodiments, the bearings 3018 may comprise a non-metallic material. For instance, the bearings 3018 may comprise a polymeric material. A material of the bearings 3018 may have any suitable material properties (e.g., hardness, density, surface finish, modulus of elasticity, etc.).

The bearings 3018 may also be defined by their size (e.g., diameter, radius, cross-sectional area, circumference, etc.). A size of the bearings 3018 is selected to at least ensure free movement of the bearings 3018 within the damping recess 3016 of the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism (e.g., to prevent jamming or wedging of the bearings 3018 as they travel around the damping recess 3016). Similarly, the number of the bearings 3018 is selected to at least ensure free movement of the bearings 3018 within the damping recess 3016 of the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 (e.g., to prevent jamming or wedging of the bearings 3018 as they travel around the damping recess 3016).

In this embodiment, the bearings 3018 are at least partially submerged in the fluid 3020 within the damping recess 3016. The fluid 3020 is a damping fluid/medium which may reduce vibrations and/or noise (e.g., reduce the noise and vibration induced by the movement of the bearings 3018). The fluid 3020 may also reduce friction and wear (e.g., wear of the bearings 3018, wear of the damping recess 3016 of the flange 3014, etc.). The fluid 3020 is also provided to ensure the free movement of the bearings 3018 within the damping recess 3016. The fluid 3020 will now be referred to as a balancing fluid 3020.

The balancing fluid 3020 may comprise any suitable fluid. For instance, in some cases, the balancing fluid 3020 may comprise a viscous fluid (e.g., oil, lubricant, viscous fluid, etc.). In other cases, the balancing fluid 3020 may comprise a non-viscous fluid. In some embodiments, the balancing fluid 3020 may comprise a non-toxic fluid. The balancing fluid 3020 may have any suitable fluid properties (e.g., viscosity, density, specific wight, specific gravity, bulk modulus, kinematic viscosity, operating temperature range, etc.).

In some embodiments, additives may be included in the balancing fluid 2020 (e.g., metal deactivators, rust inhibitors to prevent corrosion of the bearings 3018, etc.). In some embodiments, a plurality of different balancing fluids 2020 may be included in the damping recess 3016. Accordingly, a composition of the balancing fluid 2020 (i.e., a mixture of fluids and/or additives) may comprise any suitable composition.

Any suitable quantity of balancing fluid 3020 may be used (e.g., millilitre, fluid ounces, grams, ounces, etc.). For instance, in some cases, the damping recess 3016 may only be partially filled with balancing fluid 3020, while in other cases, it may be entirely filled with balancing fluid 3020. For instance, in some cases a volume of the damping recess 3016 occupied by the balancing fluid 3020 may be at least 5%, in some cases at least 15%, in some cases at least 30% and in other cases, at least 50%. For example, in some cases, the balancing fluid 3020 may partly cover the bearings 3018, in yet other cases, may completely cover the bearings 3018.

As can be appreciated from the above, the bearings 3018 may be defined by a number of properties including a number of bearings, shape, material, surface finish, mass, size (e.g., diameter, radius, cross-sectional area, circumference, etc.). Similarly, the balancing fluid 3020 may be defined by a number of properties (e.g., quantity, composition, viscosity, density, specific wight, specific gravity, bulk modulus, kinematic viscosity, etc.).

The properties of the bearings 3018 and/or the properties of the balancing fluid 3020 can be selected so as to be suitable for the grinding operation and/or for balancing the grinding wheel 100.

In this embodiment, the self-balancing mechanism 3009 is configured to be adjustable such that one or more of the balancing components 3041 of the self-balancing mechanism 3009 are readily adjustable. In this way, the self-balancing mechanism 3009 is an adjustable self-balancing mechanism 3009 (hereinafter “the mechanism 3009”) and the self-balancing spindle 3003 is an adjustable self-balancing spindle 3003.

Adjusting one or more of the balancing components 3041 of the balancing mechanism 3009 may comprise adjusting one or more of the bearings 3018. Additionally, or alternatively, adjusting one or more of the balancing components 3041 of the balancing mechanism 3009 may include adjusting the balancing fluid 3020.

Adjusting one or more of the balancing components 3041 of the mechanism 3009 may allow better grinding, such as profiling, of the runner 52, including by being able to adjust the bearings 3018 and/or the balancing fluid 2020 of the adjustable self-balancing spindle 3003 in order to improve or optimize the performance of the grinding apparatus 2000 (e.g., by selecting one or more properties of the bearings 3018 and/or balancing fluid 2020 to improve offsetting of imbalances in the grinding wheel 100). For example, the balancing components 3041 may thus be adjusted in order to achieve an optimal combination of balancing components 3041 (e.g., a combination of balancing components 3041 that provides for optimal performance of the grinding apparatus 2000). Thus, changing a property of the balancing fluid 2020 may include replacing at least a portion of the quantity of the balancing fluid 2020 disposed within the recess 3016.

Additionally, over time, the bearings 3018 may become worn or damaged (e.g., may become at least partly corroded, may have some surface damage such as nicks or chipping, may have a decrease in the surface finish (e.g., change in surface roughness (Ra) vertical distance of surface peaks (Rmax) and average maximum height of surface profile (Rz)), etc.). Accordingly, the mechanism 3009 may be adjusted to replace one or more worn or damaged bearings 3018.

Over time, the balancing fluid 2020 may become worn or degraded (e.g., degradation over time, oxidation over time, thermal degradation over time, reduction of the quantity of balancing fluid 2020 in the damping recess 3016 over time). Accordingly, the mechanism 3009 may be adjusted to replace a portion or all of the balancing fluid 3020 disposed in the damping recess 3016.

In this embodiment, the adjustable self-balancing mechanism 3009 of the spindle 3003 is configured such that the balancing components 3041 are accessible to be adjusted. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the self-balancing mechanism 3009 is adjustable such that the balancing components 3041 are changeable. For instance, the self-balancing mechanism 3009 is adjustable such that one or more balancing components 3041 may be changed to change one or more properties of the balancing components 3041.

In some cases, adjusting one or more of the balancing components 3041 includes changing one or more of the bearings 3018. For instance, changing one or more of the bearings 3018 may include increasing or decreasing a number of the bearings 3018 disposed within the balancing mechanism 3009. For instance, changing one or more of the bearings 3018 may include replacing one or more of the bearings 3018 (i.e., original bearings 3018) by one or more other bearings 3018. The one or more other bearings 3018 may have the same properties as the original one or more bearings 3018. In other examples, the one or more other bearings 3018 may have different properties than the original one or more bearings 3018. For example, the one or more other bearings 3018 may have a different shape, material, surface finish, mass, size (e.g., diameter, radius, cross-sectional area, circumference, etc.) than the one or more original bearings 3018.

In some cases, adjusting one or more of the balancing components 3041 includes adjusting the balancing fluid 3020. In one example, adjusting the balancing fluid 3020 may include increasing or decreasing a quantity (e.g., mass, volume, etc.) of balancing fluid 3020 disposed within the balancing mechanism 3009. In another example, adjusting the balancing fluid 3020 may include replacing at least a portion of the balancing fluid 3020 (i.e., the original balancing fluid 3020) by another (e.g., replacement) balancing fluid 3020. In some examples, the other balancing fluid 3020 may have the same properties as the original balancing fluid 3020. In other examples, the other balancing fluid 3020 may have different properties than the original balancing fluid 3020. For example, the other balancing fluid 3020 may have a different composition, viscosity, density, specific wight, specific gravity, bulk modulus, kinematic viscosity, etc.

In some embodiments, adjusting one or more of the balancing components 3041 includes adjusting one or more of the bearings 3018 and adjusting the balancing fluid 3020.

The mechanism 3009 is configured such that the internal cavity 3035 is configured to be accessible to adjust (e.g., change) the balancing components 3041 of the mechanism 3009. The internal cavity 3035 is configured to be readily accessible such that accessing the internal cavity 3035 to adjust the balancing components 3041 does not damage the mechanism 3009 (i.e., the action of accessing the internal cavity 3035 to change the balancing components 3041 is a non-destructive action).

Thus, the mechanism 3009 can be said to have adjustable properties and similarly, in turn, the spindle 3003 can be said to have adjustable properties.

In some embodiments, the mechanism 3009 is openable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted. In some embodiments, the mechanism 3009 is un-sealable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted. In some embodiments, the mechanism 3009 is unfastenable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted. For instance, in some cases, the mechanism 3009 is unscrewable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted. For instance, in some cases, the mechanism 3009 is unlockable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted. Accordingly, in some cases, the mechanism 3009 is detachably fastenable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted.

In some embodiments, the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 is configured to be accessible without using tools, that is configured to be toolessly accessible (for example, the mechanism 3009 is toolessly openable, toolessly unsealable, toolessly unfastenable, toolessly unscrewable, toolessly detachably fastenable, etc.) For instance, the internal cavity 3035 is configured to be manually accessible. In other embodiments, the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 is configured to be accessible using tools.

Though the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 is configured to be accessible, access to the internal cavity 3035 is restricted during operation of the grinding apparatus 2000. That is, once the one or more balancing components 3040 have been adjusted, access to the internal cavity 3035 may be restricted.

In some embodiments, the mechanism 3009 is closeable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. In some embodiments, the mechanism 3009 is re-sealable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. In some embodiments, the mechanism 3009 is fastenable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. For instance, in some cases, the mechanism 3009 is screwable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. For instance, in some cases, the mechanism 3009 is lockable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. For instance, in some cases, the mechanism 3009 is detachably fastenable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035.

In some embodiments, access to the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 is configured to be restricted without the use of tools (for example, the mechanism 3009 is toolessly closeable, toolessly sealable, toolessly fastenable, toolessly screwable, toolessly detachably fastenable, etc.) For instance, access to the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 is configured to be restricted manually. In other embodiments, access to the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 is configured to be restricted with the use of tools.

The mechanism 3009 is configured to prevent leakage of the balancing fluid 3020 (e.g., when access to the internal cavity 3035 is restricted). For instance, in some embodiments, the mechanism 3009 includes one or more seals disposed within the flange 3014 to seal the flange 3014. In this example, of implementation, the mechanism 3009 includes seals 3044, 3048 which are configured to prevent leakage of the balancing fluid 3020. The seal 3044 is disposed within a recess 3047 of the flange 3014 and the seal 3048 is disposed within a recess 3050 of the flange 3014. The seals 3044, 3048 may comprise any suitable mechanical gasket (e.g., O-ring, etc.). The seals 3044, 3018 may comprise any suitable material (e.g., a rubber material, an elastomeric material, PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) material, cork, etc.).

The flange 3014 includes a first portion 3026 and a second portion 3040 connectable with the first portion 3026 at a connection 3011. In some embodiments, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are configured to be disengageable to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014 to adjust one or more of the balancing components 3041 of the mechanism 3009. That is, to be disengageable, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 may be disconnectable from one another to adjust one or more of the balancing components 3041 of the mechanism 3009. In some cases, to be disengageable, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 may be movable relative to one another while remaining connected to one another to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014 to adjust one or more of the balancing components 3041 of the mechanism 3009. In some cases, to be disengageable, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 may be separable from one another to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014 to adjust one or more of the balancing components 3041 of the balancing mechanism 3009.

The first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are disengageable from one another to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 such that accessing the internal cavity 3035 to adjust the balancing components 3041 does not damage the mechanism 3009 (i.e., the action of accessing the internal cavity 3035 to change the balancing components 3041 is a non-destructive action).

In some embodiments, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are openable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted. In some embodiments, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are un-sealable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted. In some embodiments, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are unfastenable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted. For instance, in some cases, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are unscrewable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted. For instance, in some cases, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are unlockable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted. Accordingly, in some cases, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are detachably fastenable to access the internal cavity 3035 to allow the balancing components 3041 to be adjusted.

In some embodiments, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are rotatable with respect to one another to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014. In some embodiments, the first and second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are separable to open the flange 3014 to access the internal cavity 3035.

In some embodiments, the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 is configured to be accessible without using tools (for example, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are toolessly openable, toolessly unsealable, toolessly unfastenable, toolessly unscrewable, toolessly rotatable, toolessly separable, manually accessible, etc.) In other embodiments, the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 is configured to be accessible with the use of tools. For example, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are openable with a tool, unsealable with a tool, unfastenable with a tool, unscrewable with a tool, rotatable with a tool, separable with a tool, etc.)

The first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are temporarily connectable. Accordingly, the connection 3011 is a temporary connection. Accordingly, the flange 3014 is free of joints which permanently join the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 together.

In some embodiments, the connection 3011 is a threaded connection. In some cases, the connection 3011 is a weld-free connection. In some cases, the connection 3011 is a braze-free connection. In some cases, the connection 3011 is a solder-free connection. In some cases, the connection 3011 is a rivet-free connection.

In some embodiments, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are closeable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. In some embodiments, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are re-sealable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. In some embodiments, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are fastenable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. For instance, in some cases, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are screwable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. For instance, in some cases, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are lockable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. For instance, in some cases, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are detachably fastenable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. In some embodiments, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are rotatable with respect to one another to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035. In some embodiments, the first and second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are connectable to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035.

In some embodiments, access to the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 is configured to be restricted without the use of tools (for example, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are toolessly closeable, toolessly sealable, toolessly fastenable, toolessly screwable, toolessly detachably fastenable, etc.) In other embodiments, the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 is configured to be accessible with the use of tools. For example, the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014 are closeable with a tool, sealable with a tool, fastenable with a tool, screwable with a tool, rotatable with a tool, connectable with a tool, etc.)

With reference to FIGS. 9A to 11C, in one embodiment, the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 includes a first threaded portion 3028 and the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 includes a second threaded portion 3042 configured to engage with the first threaded portion 3028. The first and the second threaded portions 3028, 3042 are configured to disengage from one another to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014. Thus, in this example of implementation, the connection 3011 comprises the first and the second threaded portions 3028, 3042 of the flange 3014. Therefore, in this case, the connection 3011 is a threaded connection. The first and the second threaded portions 3028, 3042 are configured to engage with one another to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014.

In this embodiment, it can be said that the mechanism 3009 comprises an access system 3001 provided for accessing the internal cavity 3035 of the mechanism 3009 to adjust the balancing components 3041. The access system 3001 is operable to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the balancing mechanism 3009 to adjust the balancing components 3041. In this embodiment, the access system 3001 comprises the first threaded portion 3028 of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 and the second threaded portion 3042 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014. Thus, the access system 3001 is a threaded system operable to be unscrewed to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014. The access system 3001 is rotatable to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014.

In this embodiment, a diameter DF1 of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 is smaller than a diameter DF2 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 and the first portion 3026 is configured to overlie the second portion 3040 of the flange. In other embodiments, a diameter DF1 of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 is larger than a diameter DF2 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 and the second portion 3040 is configured to overlie the first portion 3026 of the flange. In yet other embodiments, a diameter DF1 of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 is the same as a diameter DF2 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 and the first portion 3026 is configured to abut the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014.

In this embodiment, a height of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 is the same as the height of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014. In other embodiments, a height of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 is different than a height of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014.

In this embodiment, the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 comprises the second lateral surface 3036 of the flange 3014 and the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 comprises the first lateral surface 3034 of the flange 3014.

The first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 includes a portion of the circumferential surface 3038-1 of the flange 3014. In this embodiment, the first threaded portion 3028 of the flange 3014 is disposed on the circumferential surface 3038-1 of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014. In some embodiments, the first threaded portion 3028 comprises at least a majority of the circumferential surface 3038-1. For instance, a height HF1T of the first threaded portion 3028 comprises at least a majority of a height HF1 of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014. In other cases, the first threaded portion 3028 comprises less than a majority of the circumferential surface 3038-1. In such cases, the height HF1T of the first threaded portion 3028 comprises less than majority of the height HF1 of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014.

The second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 includes a portion of the circumferential surface 3038-2 of the flange 3014. The second portion 3040 includes an interior surface 3039 spaced radially from the circumferential surface 3038-2 of the flange 3014. In this embodiment, the second threaded portion 3042 of the flange 3014 is disposed on the interior surface 3039 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014. In some embodiments, the second threaded portion 3042 comprises at least a majority of the circumferential surface 3038-1. For instance, a height HFT2 of the second threaded portion 3042 comprises at least a majority of a height HF2 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014. In other cases, the second threaded portion 3042 comprises less than a majority of the circumferential surface 3038-1. In such cases, the height HFT2 of the second threaded portion 3042 comprises less than majority of the height HF2 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014.

In this embodiment, the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 includes a radial projection 3059 including a first surface 3061 and a second surface 3069 spaced radially from the first surface 3061. The first portion 3026 includes a groove 3065 which is configured to receive the radial projection 3059 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 when the first portion 3026 engages with the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014. In this embodiment, the groove 3065 is disposed radially about the shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003. The groove 3065 comprises a first surface 3063 and a second surface 3064 spaced radially from the first surface 3063.

In some embodiments, the second surface 3064 of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 may include a threaded portion configured to engage with a threaded portion of the surface 3061 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014.

Additionally, or alternatively, in some embodiments, the first surface 3063 of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 may included a threaded portion configured to engage a threaded portion of the surface 3069 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014.

As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 11A, the surfaces 3061, 3069,3063, 3064 may be free of threaded portions.

In this embodiment, the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 includes an aperture 3058 through which the first end 3006 of the shaft portion 3007 of the spindle 3003 extends when the first portion 3026 engages with the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014.

In this embodiment, the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 includes the damping recess 3016 in which the balancing components 3041 are disposed.

In this embodiment, the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 also includes recesses 3047, 3050. In this example of implementation, the seal 3044 is disposed within the recess 3047 of the flange 3014 and the seal 3048 is disposed within a recess 3050 of the flange 3014. The seals 3044, 3048 create a seal between the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014. The seals 3044, 3048 are provided to seal the connection 3011 between the first and the second portions 3026, 3040 of the flange 3014.

With reference to FIG. 12A to 12E, in another embodiment, the flange 3014 includes a body 3023 comprising an aperture 3052 providing access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014 and an aperture cover 3054 connectable to the body 3023 of the flange 3014 and configured to cover the aperture 3052. In some embodiments, a plurality of apertures 3052 and a plurality of corresponding aperture covers 3054 may be provided. In other embodiments, a single aperture 3052 and a single corresponding aperture cover 3054 may be provided.

In this example of implementation, it can be said that the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 comprises the body 3023 and the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 comprises the aperture cover 3054. In this case, the connection 3011 comprises a connection between the body 3023 and the aperture cover 3024.

In this embodiment, the aperture cover 3054 comprises a fastener 3056. In this example, the fastener 3056 is a threaded fastener comprising a threaded portion 3030. In this case, the aperture 3052 includes a threaded portion 3031.

The threaded portions 3030, 3031 are configured to disengage from one another to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014. Thus, in this example of implementation, the connection 3011 comprises the first and the second threaded portions 3030, 3031 of the flange 3014. Therefore, in this case, the connection 3011 is a threaded connection. The first and the second threaded portions 3030, 3031 are configured to disengage from one another to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014. The first and the second threaded portions 3030, 3031 are configured to engage with one another to restrict access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014.

In this embodiment, the access system 3001 comprises the first threaded portion 3028 of the first portion 3026 of the flange 3014 (i.e., the first threaded portion 3031 of the aperture 3052) and the second threaded portion 3042 of the second portion 3040 of the flange 3014 (i.e., the second threaded portion 3030 of the aperture cover 3054). Thus, the access system 3001 is a threaded system operable to be unscrewed to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014. The access system 3001 is rotatable to provide access to the internal cavity 3035 of the flange 3014.

In this embodiment, the body 3023 of the flange 3014 includes a channel connecting the aperture 3052 to the damping recess 3016. In this example of implementation, the aperture 3052 is a countersunk aperture. In other embodiments, the aperture 3052 is a counterbore aperture. In yet other embodiments, the aperture 3052 is a counterdrill aperture. In yet other embodiments, the aperture 3052 is a through hole. The aperture 3052 may comprise any suitable aperture (e.g., any suitable hole).

The spindle 3003 may comprise any suitable material. For instance, the grinding wheel mounting portion 3013, the shaft portion 3007, the hub mounting portion 3015, the flange 3014 (including flange portions 3026, 3040) and the rotating assembly 3005 may comprise any suitable material. For example, the spindle 3003 may comprise a metallic material. In some embodiments, the balancing mechanism 3009 may comprise a rigid material. In other embodiments, the balancing mechanism 3009 may comprise a flexible material.

The spindle 3003 may be manufactured in any suitable fashion.

In some embodiments, the spindle 3003 may include portions formed separately and assembled together (e.g., by being bonded, welded, forged, mechanically fastened, or made using any other joining process). For instance, one or more of the grinding wheel mount 3025, the shaft portion 3007, the hub mounting portion 3015 and the flange 3014 (including flange portions 3026, 3040) may be formed separately and assembled together.

In other embodiments, the spindle 3003 may include portions formed as a unitary structure (e.g., by being cast or molded, or made using any other forming process). For instance, one or more of the grinding wheel mount 3025, the shaft portion 3007, the hub mounting portion 3015 and the flange 3014 (including one of the flange portions 3026, 3040) may be formed as a unitary structure.

In some embodiments, one or more of the recesses 3016, 3062, 3047, 3050 or the groove 3065 may be formed using any suitable process. For instances, the recesses may be formed by any suitable cutting process (e.g., turning, milling, drilling, etc.) or any suitable forming process (e.g., by costing, molding, etc.)

In other embodiments, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may be implemented in other manners.

For example, in some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 23 to 25, the carriage 2030 may be configured to translate the grinding mechanism 2020 longitudinally (along the X-axis) while the runner 52 remains longitudinally fixed with respect to the housing 2080 of the runner grinding apparatus 2000. Also, the grinding wheel 100 may move along the Y axis (vertically) relative to the remainder of the carriage 2030; as such, a first mechanism may be used for moving the carriage 2030 along the X axis and a second mechanism may allow movement of the grinding wheel 100 along the Y axis.

For instance, in some embodiments, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may be portable. That is, the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may be manually carriable by a single individual, so as to be transported between various locations (e.g., a residence, a skating rink, etc.). The runner grinding apparatus 2000 may therefore be sized and relatively lightweight such that is it can be readily carried by an average person. For example, in some embodiments, a length of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may be no more than 1.2 m, in some cases no more than 1 m, and in some cases no more than 0.8 m, and/or a weight of the runner grinding apparatus 2000 may be no more than 18 kg, in some cases no more than 15 kg, and in some cases no more than 12 kg.

Although in embodiments discussed above the grinding apparatus 2000 is a runner grinding apparatus and the substrate 52 is a runner of a skate, the grinding apparatus 2000 with the grinding wheel 100 may be any other type of grinding apparatus and the substrate 52 may be any other type of substrate to be ground in other embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the grinding apparatus 2000 may be machinery in a construction, manufacturing or other site, a machine tool, etc., used for finishing, sanding or other grinding purposes, the substrate 52 may be a knife or another type of blade, a structural or other metallic piece, etc.

Certain additional elements that may be needed for operation of certain embodiments have not been described or illustrated as they are assumed to be within the purview of those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, certain embodiments may be free of, may lack and/or may function without any element that is not specifically disclosed herein.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the description and drawings merely illustrate certain principles and that various arrangements may be devised which, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody such principles. Furthermore, the examples and conditions recited herein are mainly intended to aid the reader in understanding such principles and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions.

It should be noted that references to relative positions (e.g., “top” and “bottom”) in this description are merely used to identify various elements as are oriented in the Figures. It should be recognized that the orientation of particular components may vary greatly depending on the application in which they are used.

Some embodiments are also intended to cover program storage devices, e.g., digital data storage media, which are, machine or computer-readable and encode machine-executable or computer-executable programs of instructions, wherein said instructions perform some or all of the steps of the above-described methods. The embodiments are also intended to cover computers programmed to perform said steps of the above-described methods.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that when a processor is described as being “configured” to carry out an action or process, this can mean that the processor carries out the action or process by virtue of executing computer-readable instructions that are read from device memory where these computer-readable instructions are stored.

Those skilled in the art should appreciate that any feature of any embodiment disclosed herein may combined with (e.g., used instead of or in addition to) any feature of any other embodiment disclosed herein in some examples of implementation. Certain additional elements that may be needed for operation of some embodiments have not been described or illustrated as they are assumed to be within a purview of those ordinarily skilled in the art. Moreover, certain embodiments may be free of, may lack and/or may function without any element that is not specifically disclosed herein.

Although various embodiments have been illustrated, this was for the purpose of describing, but should not be limiting. Various modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art and are within the scope of what is claimed.