I think the V is to allow it to sit into the V and be held against potential movement with downward pressure as the piece goes through the blade. As we know contact with a TS blade at anything except straight in can get wiggy. Having the V dispenses with a strong suggestion to use clamps, so they are quicker to use.

Probably a single side on a sled, or against the fence could also be safe as long as the piece couldn't move, IE: clamps.