Abstract: A mechanical method for producing micro-scale and nano-scale textures that facilitates, for example, the cost-effective production of nanostructures on large-scale substrates, e.g., during the large-scale production of thin-film solar cells. A “scratcher” (multi-pointed abrasion mechanism) is maintained in a precise position relative to a target substrate such that micron-level features (protrusions) extending from the scratcher's base structure are precisely positioned to contact a surface material layer of the target substrate with a predetermined amount of force, and then moved relative to the substrate (e.g., by way of a conveying mechanism) while maintaining the pressing force such that the micron-level features define elongated parallel nano-scale grooves and/or form nano-scale ridges in the surface material layer (i.e., by mechanically displacing) portions of the surface material layer to form the nano-scale grooves/ridges).

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for rounding the filaments of a toothbrush head, comprising a rounding tool (2) and a means (3) for guiding the tool (2) on a path of movement that finishes the filaments. The invention provides that the guiding means is configured as a linear guide (3) by means of which the tool (2) can be linearly displaced relative to at least two axes (5, 6).

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method of sharpening reel blades on a lawnmower reel includes positioning a grinding wheel in contact with the reel, rotating the grinding wheel about an axis of rotation, linearly translating the grinding wheel along a longitudinal path. and rotating the reel about its longitudinal axis. The axis of rotation of the grinding wheel is transverse to a longitudinal axis of the reel.

Abstract: A portable automated sharpening apparatus is structured to sharpen one or more of a plurality of blades of an operational reel blade mechanism, the apparatus including a sharpening assembly with a sharpening element movably interconnected to a sharpening motor. The apparatus also includes a drive assembly having a drive member which at least partially defines a drive path, the drive member further structured to transport the sharpening assembly along at least a portion of the drive path. A support assembly is structured to removably yet securely interconnect at least the drive assembly to the operational reel blade mechanism, and a guide assembly maintains a sharpening axis of the sharpening assembly substantially parallel to a reel blade axis. Further, the apparatus includes a control assembly to allow automatic alternation of a direction of transport of the sharpening assembly, in a reciprocating manner.

Abstract: Disclosed is an improved method of forming a series of hills and valleys alternately arranged at a predetermined pitch on the surface of a given workpiece. It comprises the steps of: carrying out a first grinding on the workpiece with a saw-toothed grindstone having a series of hills and valleys alternately arranged at “N” pitches (“N” being two or more integer or whole number), the height measured from the bottom of the valley to the peak of the hill in the saw-toothed grindstone being taller than the corresponding height in the workpiece; moving the saw-toothed grindstone and/or the workpiece one pitch relative to each other to carry out a second grinding on the workpiece; and repeating the relative movement of one-pitch long-distance and sequential grinding until the final “N”th grinding has been finished. All grindings are effected while the workpiece is being cooled by cooling water.