Edge Sharpness Measurement

The Edge Quality Evaluator is a novel device that measures whether or not an edge, at any angle, is sharp and at what applied force it loses its sharpness. The way it works is through application of normal and tangential forces. The apparatus is set up as shown in the image to the right. The test material sample is inserted into special clamps (purple) that allow for angular adjustment and introduced to a desired surface (whatever the edge should be sharp against, i.e. wood, ice, metal, etc.). Then, a compression spring is used to apply a downward normal force to the sample. Another compression spring is used to apply a tangential force.  At a certain applied tangential force, the sample may start to slip. This demonstrates to the user the maximum applied tangential force the sample can withstand before slipping on a given surface. As mentioned previously, the sample can be adjusted angularly within the clamp, allowing a variety of tests to be conducted.