Pendant for carrying remembrances such as cremation remains and method for manufacturing the same

Abstract

A method of manufacturing, and resulting pendant for hermetically sealing the crematory remains, hair samples or the like of a loved one or pet, utilizing a laser-welding operation to seal congruent front and rear concave housing members together, preserving the contents there within. The metal utilized is thin, therefore each housing member provides a continuous sacrificial lip of metal along the seam to prevent the laser from blowing a hole through the metal housing. Unlike conventional welding or soldering means, the laser produces very minimal heat build up, preventing damage to the contents therein during welding.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to preserving crematory remains, a hair sample or the like. Specifically this invention relates to hermetically preserving the organic remains in a decorative jewelry-pendant for attachment to a neck chain, maintaining the remains in close proximity to the holder thereof. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Cremation of the remains of humans and animals, such as pets, has now become a common alternative for preservation and burial of the deceased. The ashes of the cremated decedent are sometimes distributed in accordance with the wishes of the decedent, but can also be deposited in urns for storage and memorialization purposes. The urns may be retained by the family in a home or other location, or held in permanent storage in a mausoleum. [0003] One example of a storage container for human remains is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,287,603 to Schorman. The '603 patent describes a storage container for human ashes that includes ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] Another object of the invention is to provide a permanent sealed container which will not damage the contents stored within during assembly, while still providing a secure concealment.

[0009] A further object of the present invention is to provide a sealing means for manufacturing the hermetically-sealed jewelry pendant, utilizing a laser welding operation, for precisely sealing the two housing members together.

[0012] The laser welding process utilizes amplified light to weld metals instead of the traditional way of soldering with a torch. The advantages are many. The laser beam itself is so precise and the heat is so localized, repairs can be made close to heat sensitive stones, or other easily damaged materials. There is no solder in a laser welded repair joint so they are much stronger than traditional solder joints. All of the traditional jewelry metals can be laser welded, including all base metals, karat golds, sterling silver, titanium, palladium, and platinum. Welding different metals groups is also possible, .i.e., gold to platinum, sterling to gold, etc. allowing greater possibilities in the end product.

[0013] The laser produces a sharply focused light beam that melts a very small area of metal. The metal cools instantly, fusing the two pieces together. Multiple shots can be taken with the laser to achieve the precise weld that is needed. By adjusting the laser beam's strength and diameter, one can precisely deliver just the amount of energy necessary to achieve a strong weld. Laser-welded joints have more than triple the strength of soldered joints, without having to heat up the piece, preventing damage to the thin metal utilized, or the contents stored there within.

Problems solved by technology

One disadvantage of the container of the '603 patent is that the boxy structure of the container is designed for assemblage with other containers and suitable only for use in a mausoleum type setting and would not be desirable for a stand alone display.

Furthermore, the container is placed on a shelf or other suitable storage location wherein it is visited on occasion by those who so desire, and cannot easily be transported or carried around by one who may wish to retain the remains near their person.

Other crematory pendants historically, have been sealed by means of a stopper, or jewelers epoxy, and although sufficient sealing may be achieved through these means, it is possible that the threaded cover may inadvertently loosen over time, or the silicone seal deteriorates, exposing the organic remains to the outside.

Furthermore, if a silicone sealant or epoxy is utilized, during assemblage, it may come in contact with the contents intended to be contained there within, which is undesirable.

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