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The late 19th to early 20th century saw significant developments in hand tools, coinciding with the Industrial Revolution. As workers in manufacturing, construction, and other industries demanded more efficient and convenient cutting tools, early folding knives and small portable blades began to be used for more precise tasks, eventually evolving into the modern utility knife.

The true innovation of the utility knife came in the mid-20th century. In 1956, the Japanese company OLFA invented the world's first snap-off blade utility knife. This design not only extended the lifespan of the tool but also greatly improved safety and cutting efficiency. The inspiration for the snap-off blade came from segmented chocolate bars, allowing users to simply snap off a portion of the blade to reveal a new, sharp edge. This revolutionary idea quickly gained popularity worldwide.

In the 21st century, technological advancements have led to significant diversification in the functionality and design of utility knives. From traditional manual utility knives to modern versions equipped with auto-locking mechanisms, rotating blades, ergonomic handles, and more, the performance and user experience have been substantially enhanced. Additionally, with the application of technologies like laser cutting and 3D printing, the precision and sharpness of utility knives have reached new levels.

Looking ahead, the development of utility knives will continue to progress toward smart features, high precision, environmental sustainability, and multifunctionality. With ongoing advancements in material science and manufacturing processes, new blade materials and innovative designs will further enhance the durability and cutting performance of utility knives. Moreover, smart utility knives may integrate more high-tech features, such as automatic depth adjustment and built-in sensors, to meet the ever-changing demands of the market.