Abstract: An automated sheet cutting device includes a frame, a fixed linearly-shaped blade secured to the frame, and a moveable blade-supporting mechanism also secured to the frame for operably supporting a moveable blade against the fixed blade. In particular, the blade-supporting mechanism includes a swing arm pivotally secured to the frame for movement about a first axis, and further includes a blade holder pivotally secured to the swing arm for movement about a second axis. An actuator connected to the swing arm rotates the blade-supporting mechanism about the first axis, and a spring connected to the blade holder pivots the blade holder about the second axis so that the moveable blade continuously engages the fixed blade. The fixed and moveable blades comprise elongated linearly shaped bars, but are oriented at an angle so that the blades contact along a continuously shifting shearing point as the moveable blade is moved curvilinearly downwardly across the fixed blade with a sweeping motion.

Abstract: A cutter for sheet materials, packing or cushioning materials, and the like, comprises an elongate, hollow cutter bar or housing having a spring blade pivotally mounted therein, with the upper edge of the blade positioned in a longitudinal slot in the bar. A circular knife is slidably carried on the bar, and includes a cutting edge which engages the blade to shear the sheet therebetween as the circular knife is moved along the bar. The blade is normally biased into a safety position, wherein the upper edge of the blade is retracted into the bar slot. Engagement between the circular knife and the blade automatically shifts the adjacent portion of the blade into a cutting position with the knife, wherein the upper edge of the blade is extended from the retracted, storage position to a cutting position, flush with the upper surface of the cutter bar to cleanly and evenly shear the material between the blade and the knife.