DEFORMABLE JEWELRY ITEM

Description

The present invention generally concerns the field of jewelry, more particularly the components such as rings, bracelets or pendants.

Jewelry components, particularly rings, offering the possibility of having a telescopic extension movement in an axial direction, for example as disclosed in document EP0642750, are known.

However, the components of the prior art have the drawbacks of risks of pinching the user in case of movement of the pieces, of offering an inelegant stepped structure that can be caught inadvertently, of not being intuitive during the telescopic movement and of being complicated to use.

The aim of the present invention is to propose a new construction of jewelry components, such as rings, earrings or pendants, offering new mechanical and/or aesthetic possibilities, while facilitating the manufacture. Furthermore, the present invention aims to reduce the risk of pinching the user in case of movement of the pieces, to have an elegant structure limiting the risk of being caught inadvertently, to be intuitive during the movement of the pieces and to be simple to manufacture and use.

Thus, the invention concerns, in a first aspect, a jewelry item comprising:

• • at least one first piece,
  • at least one second piece movably mounted on the first piece, and
  • a deformable casing secured to the first piece and to the second piece.
    The second piece is thus movable relative to the first piece, that is to say it is assembled to the first piece in a movable manner.

This makes it possible to propose a jewelry item, particularly a ring or a pendant, with a new construction, offering new mechanical and/or aesthetic possibilities, while facilitating the manufacture. Furthermore, this makes it possible to reduce the risks of pinching the user in case of movement of the pieces, to present an elegant structure limiting the risk of being inadvertently caught, to be intuitive during the movement of the pieces and to be simple to manufacture and use.

Advantageously, the deformable casing is a network of articulated elements.

This makes it possible to propose an elegant jewelry item easy to use and offering a pleasant and deformable sensation to the touch.

In other words, the articulated elements of the network together form an external wall of the (external) deformable casing, the articulated elements being movable relative to each other and articulated to each other so as to make said external wall deformable. By “deformable” it is meant here that the deformation of the wall is done while keeping the dimensions of the articulated elements, without deformation of material. It is only the relative displacements of the articulated elements relative to each other that allow the deformation. The degrees of freedom provided for in the design between the articulated elements thus determine the possible deformations. The jewelry item can therefore take an infinite number of shapes, depending on the forces it undergoes, whether it is pressure from the wearer or user, or the action of gravity on the wall which, when free, can deform under its own weight. By “articulated” it is meant the fact that the articulated elements are linked while preserving a degree of movement relative to each other. This makes it possible to propose a jewelry item with a deformable external wall, which gives new possibilities to the designers in order to design shapes of jewelry items, and gives the user the possibility of having a more tactile interaction with his jewel, with the possibility of deforming it and playing with it. Particularly, the articulated elements linked together to form the network, allow the external wall to regain at least partially its original shape and volume after having been subjected to compression, bending or even extension.

Preferably, the articulated elements are formed in one piece. Preferably, the adjacent articulated elements are articulated together, or at least some adjacent articulated elements are articulated together.

In one preferred embodiment, the wall is elastically deformable.

This makes it possible to recover to the nominal or initial shape after being deformed by a stress, for example a pressing.

Advantageously, each articulated element comprises an external panel.

Advantageously, the articulated elements comprise interlacings, preferably helical interlacings, meshing the articulated elements with each other.

This makes it possible to retain and mesh the articulated elements together, so as to ensure the mechanical strength.

Advantageously, the network of articulated elements is arranged to limit an amplitude of displacement of the deformable casing.

Advantageously, the network of articulated elements is arranged to limit an amplitude of displacement of the second piece relative to the first piece.

This makes it possible to limit the movement of the pieces with each other, and to ensure their return to the initial position in a simple manner.

Advantageously, the network of articulated elements has a plurality of mesh sizes between the articulated elements.

Advantageously, the mesh size in the vicinity of the first piece or of the second piece is different from the mesh size at a distance from the first piece or from the second piece.

Advantageously, the deformable casing is flexible. By “flexible” it is meant something that can be folded and/or refolded easily, without breaking or damaging.

This makes it easier to manufacture the jewelry item while ensuring a smoother and more regular movement.

Advantageously, the jewelry item further comprises an elastic piece arranged at least partially on or under the deformable casing, so as to allow an elastic return of the casing.

This makes it possible to ensure the reversible and intuitive operation of the jewelry item.

Advantageously, the elastic piece comprises a plurality of portions each having an elasticity, and in which the elasticity of at least one of the portions is different from the elasticity of the other portions.

Advantageously, the elastic piece comprises a plurality of portions having an identical elasticity.

Advantageously, at least one articulated element is supported by an elastic piece (or elastic member), such as an elastic meshing.

This makes it possible to give an elastic character to the deformation of the external wall, which returns to its initial shape after having been deformed, under the action of the elastic member. Where the external wall is sustained by the elastic member, it is no longer completely free to deform, in particular under its weight, if the elastic force is greater than the weight of the wall.

Advantageously, the jewelry item further comprises a return spring arranged to return a movement of the casing or of the second piece.

This makes it possible to ensure the reversible and intuitive operation of the jewelry item.

Advantageously, the movement of the second piece is telescopic. By “telescopic” it is meant a movement for which the elements or pieces fit together and slide into each other.

Advantageously, the movement of the second piece is radial.

Advantageously, the jewelry item further comprises at least one connection between the first piece and the second piece, and in which the connection is preferably chosen among a slide, a sliding pivot, a pivot, a hinge, a ball joint or a dovetail.

Advantageously, the first piece and/or the second piece is/are a bushing, preferably a rigid bushing.

Advantageously, at least one of said articulated elements is set or decorated.

This makes it possible to propose an elegant jewelry item compatible with a movement of the pieces between them and a setting or decoration thereof.

Advantageously, the deformable casing is arranged to cover an outer portion of the bushing.

This makes it possible to propose a jewelry item with a deformable external casing.

Advantageously, the articulated elements comprise a coating, for example a non-stick or self-lubricating coating. The coating can for example be made of bronze or of metal or polymer, so as to improve the sliding of the articulated elements between them, and to make the deformable casing more flexible, supple and more pleasant.

Advantageously, the deformable casing is of toric shape, preferably of asymmetrical toric shape.

This makes it possible to propose an intuitive jewelry item simple to use and construct, while being pleasant and deformable to the touch.

Another aspect of the invention concerns a jewelry item comprising:

• • at least one first piece, with a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, and
  • a deformable casing secured to the first piece and connecting the first side to the second side, so as to cover the first piece.

This makes it possible to propose a jewelry item with the advantages mentioned for the present invention.

Advantageously, the jewelry item further comprises at least one crosspiece arranged between the first side and the second side.

This makes it possible to stiffen the jewelry item and to maintain a constant distance between the two sides of the first piece, as well as to maintain a spacing of the deformable casing, which may be a network of articulated elements.

Advantageously, the jewelry item further comprises:

• • at least one second piece movably mounted on the first piece.

Advantageously, the jewelry item further comprises:

• • at least one hinge or clasp, arranged between the first piece and the second piece, and preferably hidden by the deformable casing.

The embodiments and aspects of the present invention may be coupled together, or parts thereof may be used for other embodiments, as far as possible and necessary.

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention given by way of non-limiting example and illustrated by the appended drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 represents a jewelry item according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in sectional view,

FIG. 2 represents the jewelry item according to one variant of the first embodiment, in sectional and perspective view,

FIG. 3 represents a perspective view of the jewelry item according to the first embodiment,

FIG. 4 represents a detailed top view of an articulated element of the jewelry item,

FIG. 5 represents a detailed perspective bottom view of two articulated elements,

FIG. 6 represents a detailed perspective view of two articulated elements,

FIG. 7 represents the jewelry item according to a second embodiment of the present invention, in a sectional view,

FIG. 8 represents the jewelry item according to a third embodiment of the present invention, in exploded perspective,

FIG. 9 represents a detailed view of the jewelry item according to the third embodiment of the present invention, in perspective view,

FIG. 10 represents a detailed view of the jewelry item according to the third embodiment of the present invention, according to a perspective view opposite to the view of FIG. 9,

FIG. 11 represents a detailed view of the jewelry item according to the third embodiment of the present invention, according to a sectional view,

FIG. 12 represents an exploded perspective view of the jewelry item according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1 represents a jewelry item 100 according to the present invention. The jewelry item 100 may be, for example, a ring 100, an earring 100 or a pendant 100, without being limited to these examples.

The ring 100 comprises at least a first piece 1 and at least a second piece 2 movably mounted relative to the first piece 1.

The ring 100 further comprises a deformable casing 3 connecting the first piece 1 and the second piece 2. The deformable casing 3 is thus secured to the first piece 1 and to the second piece 2. Preferably, the link between the deformable casing 3 and the first piece 1 and second piece 2 is non-dismountable.

Preferably, the deformable casing 3 may be a network of articulated elements 20. The articulated elements 20 are movable relative to each other, which allows the deformable casing to deform under the action, for example, of the pressure of a finger of the user.

The second piece 2 is movable relative to the first piece 1, for example at a connection 2g, such as a slide connection, between the first piece 1 and the second piece 2. The connection 2g between the first piece 1 and the second piece 2 may also be a sliding pivot, a ball joint, a segment or a dovetail, without being limited to these examples.

Thus, a pressure from the user on an articulated element 20 of the network makes it possible to move this articulated element 20, but also the contiguous articulated elements 20, and gradually makes it possible to move the second piece 2 which is at least partially secured to an articulated element 20 (for example by means of an external articulated element 20ex of the network of articulated elements 20). Thus, a pressure from the user makes it possible to move the second piece 2 along the connection 2g between the second piece 2 and the first piece 1. In other words, the connection 2g between the first piece 1 and the second piece 2 makes it possible to promote the displacement of the articulated elements 20. Thus, the deformation of the deformable casing 3 is facilitated, its amplitude can be increased. Furthermore, the deformation of the deformable casing 3 may also be limited by an abutment, for example at the connection 2g, so as to restrict the deformation of the deformable casing 3, and for example avoid jamming at the level of the articulated elements 20. In other words, the external articulated elements 20ex are secured to the first piece 1 and/or to the second piece 2 and to the rest of the network of articulated elements 20. The articulated elements 20ex may each comprise a portion (for example a base 20b) attached to the first piece 1 and/or to the second piece 2, and one or more interlacings 20e to be attached to the rest of the network of articulated elements 20.

Furthermore, the network of articulated elements 20 can limit an amplitude of displacement of the deformable casing 3, and therefore of the second piece 2, particularly relative to the first piece 1.

Furthermore, the ring 100 can comprise an elastic piece 4 arranged under or on the deformable casing 3. In the illustration of FIG. 1, the elastic piece 4 is arranged under the deformable casing 3, and presses under articulated element bases 20b of the articulated elements 20. This makes it possible to elastically return the deformable casing 30. It is possible to provide for the elastic piece 4 under several articulated element bases 20b. It is in addition possible to provide for a base 4b for the elastic piece 4, which may comprise a network of slender elastic pieces (or slender portions) in order to sustain and/or return the network of articulated elements 20. The slender portions may extend from the base 4b to the articulated element base 20b.

The first piece 1 may be a bushing, preferably a rigid bushing, and the deformable casing 3 may cover the first piece 1. Preferably, each of the first piece 1 and/or of the second piece 2 may be integral, monolithic, made in a single piece, and/or free of inner articulation. Furthermore, the second piece 2 is preferably mounted directly on the first piece 1.

The first piece 1 may have a longitudinal axis X and a recess arranged to receive a finger of the user along the longitudinal axis X. The first piece 1, in particular in the case where it is a bushing, has a radial axis Z, preferably passing through a center of gravity of the bushing.

The base 4b of the elastic piece 4 may preferably be fixed or secured to the external articulated elements 20ex.

It is further possible to provide for the connections (for example slide connections) between the base 4b and the slender portions of the elastic piece 4.

Furthermore, it is possible to provide for different elasticities between the slender portions of the elastic piece 4, in order to promote the movement of the second piece 2.

The elastic piece 4 is preferably underlying, that is to say it is located under the network of articulated elements 20 and is at least partially hidden by the latter. In other words, the elastic piece 4 is arranged between the articulated elements 20 and the first piece 1 and/or the second piece 2.

FIG. 2 represents the jewelry item 100, for example the ring 100, according to one variant of the first embodiment, according to a sectional perspective view.

The reference numbers in common between the embodiments are repeated as much as possible and necessary.

In this embodiment, it is possible to provide for symmetry for the network of articulated elements 20, for example with respect to an axis Z. In the same way, it is possible to provide for symmetry for the elastic piece 4, for example symmetrical with respect to an axis Z1. Therefore, an offset is possible between the axis Z and Z1, which makes it possible to offer significant design freedom, in particular for aesthetic and ergonomic reasons, but also facilitates the sliding of the second piece 2 relative to the first piece 1. Note that with reference to FIG. 1, the axes Z and Z1 are identical.

FIG. 3 represents the first embodiment of the ring 100, in order to illustrate its final visual. The ring 100 can comprise decorative elements. For example, it is possible to provide for a setting of diamonds 20d at the level of the articulated elements 20. It is possible to provide for a stone (for example precious, fine or organic stone) or another decorative element instead of or in addition to the diamonds 20d.

Furthermore, by “network of articulated elements 20” it is meant a set of meshes whose more or less dense interlace forms a grid, a lattice, or a crosslink. In other words, it is a mesh fabric, preferably metal mesh fabric, that is to say a flexible and thin set obtained by the regular assembly of threads, preferably metal threads, or interwoven fibers, either by meshes with a single thread, or by weaving with several threads, or formed by a single continuous piece, made by three-dimensional printing (also called 3D printing). In this case, the interlacings and the panels are advantageously formed in a continuous piece. The articulated elements 20 are represented and described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6.

FIG. 4 represents a detailed top view of an articulated element 20.

Here, by “top view” it is meant the view from outside the ring 100 when the articulated element 20 is assembled into a network of articulated elements 20 to form the casing 3, perpendicularly to the surface of the casing.

Each articulated element 20 comprises, as described above, an external panel 20p. In the example represented in FIG. 4, each articulated element 20 comprises four, preferably helical, interlacings 20e.

The articulated element 20 is represented with a diamond 20d set on the external panel 20p. For example, the dimension of the panel 20p is approximately 1.60 mm on each side. The mobility of the panels 20p makes it possible to create light reflections and effects in the set stones. It is further possible to provide, in addition to or instead of the setting, for a smoothing of the panels 20p or to make textures on panels the 20p, or a surface heat treatment to give for example a satin or colored appearance. This gives a new kind of jewelry item offering an original aesthetics and allowing the user to interact in a tactile manner with their jewelry item 100, to deform it or create light effects on the panels 20p or the set stones.

Claws 20g can be provided in order to hold the diamonds 20d in place.

FIG. 5 represents a detailed perspective bottom view of two articulated elements 20.

Here, by “bottom view” it is meant the view from inside the ring 100 when the articulated element 20 is assembled into a network of articulated elements 20 to form the casing 3.

As described above, the articulated elements 20 each comprise an articulated element base 20b.

The articulated elements 20 are interlaced: an interlacing 20e of an articulated element 20 is interlaced with an interlacing 20e of another neighboring articulated element 20. Thus, the interlacings 20e are in a position of engagement with each other, that is to say are retained together, with a clearance. This makes it possible to mesh the articulated elements 20 together, so as to connect them. In other words, the network of articulated elements 20 is also a network of meshes.

It is possible to provide for a clearance between the panels 20p of the articulated elements 20. The clearance between two articulated elements 20 is typically from 0.1 to 0.2 mm at the level of the panels 20p. This clearance is not contradictory with the fact that the surfaces of the panels are substantially in continuity with each other to form the external wall.

FIG. 6 represents a detailed perspective view of two articulated elements 20.

The articulated elements 20 are interlaced with each other, via the interlacings 20e. The articulated elements 20 typically measure 1.6 mm in height.

FIG. 7 represents a second embodiment of the ring 100.

It is possible to modify the dimensions of the ring 100 in order to provide for example for more rounded shapes for the deformable casing 3. Thus, in one preferred embodiment, the deformable casing 3 is of toric shape as illustrated in FIG. 7, and particularly of asymmetrical toric shape.

The articulated elements 20 are preferably made by 3D printing or by welding (or sintering). The articulated elements 20 can be made of any suitable material, such as gold, silver, steel, or plastic materials. The same goes for the first piece 1 and/or the second piece 2. The elastic piece can be made of elastomer or silicone for example.

The elastic piece 4 can be an elastic meshing, also called bumper. The elastic meshing 4 forms a frame that supports and sustains the network of articulated elements 20. The elastic meshing can be made by 3D printing. The elastic piece 4 can have a lattice structure or be made of composite material.

Preferably, the elastic piece 4 can be an elastic meshing comprising a network of elastic elements, with for example solid portions separated by perforated portions. The solid portions are preferably arranged facing the bases of the articulated elements 20b so as to sustain them elastically.

Thus, when the user presses on the jewelry item 100, at the level of one or more panels 20p, the articulated elements 20 are elastically sustained, that is to say they return to their initial position once the user's pressing has ended.

This furthermore provides resistance to the user's pressing, which is pleasant to the touch and allows playing with the wall of the ring 100.

The perforated portions of the elastic meshing also contribute to the good mechanical strength of the meshing, in particular by limiting blistering, plastic sinking or deterioration of the elastic meshing.

Preferably, the meshes, which are the repeating pattern of the elastic meshing, are lozenge-shaped when viewed from above.

Preferably, the elastic meshing is made up of meshes of a similar or proportional (or corresponding) dimension to the meshes of the network of articulated elements. In practice, the meshes of the network of articulated elements and the meshes of the elastic meshing are not identical.

As a variant, the elastic meshing may be wider or looser, that is to say the dimension of the meshes is larger, and the elastic support is ensured for example only for half of the bases of the articulated elements 20b.

FIG. 8 represents the jewelry item according to the third embodiment of the present invention, in exploded perspective.

The ring 100 is illustrated with the elastic piece 4, as well as the first piece 1.

The elastic piece 4 can thus match the internal shape of the network of articulated elements 20, in particular so as to sustain it at the level of a plurality of sustained articulated elements 20. The elastic piece 4 thus also forms a network, preferably corresponding to the network of articulated elements 20. Alternatively, it is possible to provide that there is not necessarily a correspondence between the network of the articulated elements 20 and the network of the elastic piece 4: it is possible to provide for a network bar of the elastic piece 4 for several articulated elements 20, without all the articulated elements 20 being directly sustained by the network of the elastic piece 4. Thus, it is possible to adjust the rigidity and flexibility, by adjusting the number of articulated elements 20 directly sustained by the network of the elastic piece 4, for example from 0 to 30%, 0 to 50%, 0 to 75% or 0 to 100%.

The external articulated elements 20ex are preferably connected or secured to the first piece 1.

Alternatively, the elements 20ex are not directly connected to the piece 1.

The elements 20ex are connected to rigid bushings 21ex, preferably directly made during printing or welded. It is possible to weld these bushings 21ex to small bars 30 and 31 and then fix the whole on the piece 1 by fixing the small bars 30 and 31 of the ring 100 (by screwing or pin), which simplifies dismounting, mounting and after-sales service.

FIG. 9 represents a detailed view of the jewelry item according to the third embodiment of the present invention, in perspective view.

The ring 100 may comprise one or more crosspieces or small bars 30, 31, as indicated above in order to maintain the lateral spacing of the network of articulated elements 20, preferably via the rigid bushings 21ex. In the example of FIGS. 9 and 10, the ring 100 comprises a first crosspiece 30 and a second crosspiece 31 illustrated in FIG. 10.

The first crosspiece 30 is represented at the top and the second crosspiece 31 is hidden by the first piece 1 and is fixed by one (or more) screws 41. The first piece 1 is thus screwed and secured to the crosspiece 31 by means of the screw 41.

FIG. 10 represents a detailed view of the jewelry item according to the third embodiment of the present invention, in perspective view opposite to the view of FIG. 9.

The crosspiece 30 is fixed and secured to the first piece 1 by means of one (or more) pin(s) 40, housed in a housing 40h. The crosspieces 30, 31 are welded or produced by 3D printing in order to be made secured to the first row of external articulated elements 20ex or to the bushings 21ex.

In one particular embodiment, the screw 41 and pin 40 heads are hidden by welding or brazing, while allowing dismounting, particularly for repair and maintenance.

FIG. 11 represents a detailed view of the jewelry item according to the third embodiment of the present invention, in sectional view.

It is possible to see the screws 41 screwed into tapped holes 41h of the crosspiece 31. Similarly, it is possible to see the pin 40 housed in the calibrated hole 40h of the crosspiece 30 (and of the first piece 1).

The articulated network edges, also called external articulated elements 20ex, can be integral with the first piece 1 or secured to the rigid bushings 21ex. They are preferably directly produced by 3D printing. In other words, the external articulated elements 20ex are secured, on one side, to the rigid bushings 21ex, and on the other side, to the rest of the network of articulated elements 20.

In FIGS. 9 to 11, the rest of the network of articulated elements 20 is hidden for better readability of the figures.

FIG. 12 represents an exploded perspective view of the jewelry item according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 represents a fourth embodiment which is a bracelet 200.

The bracelet 200 comprises a first piece 101 and a second piece 102 movably mounted on the first piece 101.

The first piece 101 and/or the second piece 102 preferably comprises a network of articulated elements 20. The second piece 102 can be made with a rigid mesh (or with a rigid piece having the appearance of a mesh) and the first piece 101 can be made with a flexible mesh.

The bracelet 200 further comprises a hinge 107 connecting the first piece 101 and the second piece 102, allowing a rotational movement between them, so as to allow opening the bracelet 200.

The bracelet 200 further comprises a clasp or a pusher 105, 106 connecting the first piece 101 and the second piece 102, for fixing the pieces together, so as to allow closing the bracelet 200. The clasp comprises a first part 106 fixed to the first piece 101, and a second part 105 fixed to the second piece 102.

The bracelet 200 further comprises an elastic piece (not represented), preferably made of polyurethane, housed in the first piece 101 and/or in the second piece 102.

The bracelet 200 further comprises a first inner cover 108, preferably rigid in order to close an inner space of the first piece 102, and to hide if necessary the elastic piece (not represented).

The bracelet 200 further comprises a second inner cover 103, 104, preferably rigid in order to close an inner space of the second piece 102, and to hide if necessary the elastic piece (not represented). The second cover 103, 104, can be made in several parts, with a dismountable cover 103, in order to facilitate the repair and maintenance of the network of articulated elements 20 and/or of the elastic piece (such as for example its replacement). It is also possible to provide for such a dismountable cover for the first piece 1. The dismountable cover can be fixed by one or more screws (for example four) to the edges of the cover 104.

The external articulated elements 20ex are secured to the hinge 107 and to the clasp 105, 106, on one side, and to the rest of the network of articulated elements on the other side. Alternatively, the hinge 107 and the clasp 105, 106 can be secured to the covers 104, 108. The hinge 107 and the clasp 105, 106 can be hidden by the network of articulated elements 20. The hinge 107 and/or the pushers 105, 106 could be under the mesh so that the free ends of the mesh would be at the level of the clasp or of the hinge.

The external articulated elements 20ex may be secured to the covers 108, 104, and fixed thereto, in particular by a base 20b.

It will be understood that various modifications and/or improvements obvious to those skilled in the art may be made to the various embodiments of the invention described in the present description.

Particularly, reference is made to the possibility of having other dimensions or other materials for the various elements, for example the first piece, the second piece, the deformable casing, the interlacings, without being limited to them. It is possible to provide that the elastic piece 4 supports a single articulated element 20 or that the elastic piece 4 is overmolded with the network of articulated elements 20. Thus, it is possible to provide for a gel filling at the level of each articulated element 20 or an underlying torus formed of gel. It is further possible to provide that the elastic piece 4 also acts as a bumper.

More generally, it is also possible to provide for a support disposed between the first piece 1 and/or the second piece 2 and the casing. This support can be elastic as mentioned above with the elastic piece 4, but also rigid, to form an abutment to the deformations of the external casing. The support can also be a combination of elastic portions and rigid portions.

It is possible to combine the embodiments as much as possible or necessary.