Ring

Abstract

The invention relates to a ring (1), in particular a jewelry ring or smart ring, comprising at least one first inner ring (2) and at least three hollow spheres (3) rotatably mounted on the first inner ring, each of the three hollow spheres being arranged in its own third of the circle of the first inner ring.

Description

ring

[0001] The present invention relates to a ring, in particular a jewelry ring or smart ring, comprising at least one first inner ring and at least three hollow spheres rotatably mounted on the first inner ring. State of the art

[0002] The age-old problem of rings, especially hallmarked ones, causing pain when slipping onto the finger joint has plagued jewelers and goldsmiths for centuries. On the one hand, the ring must be wide enough to pass over the joint with minimal pain; on the other hand, it must be tight enough to ensure a secure fit in its final position and prevent it from twisting downwards due to any stone setting. However, since the finger joint is often the widest part of the finger (a width that constantly fluctuates depending on the time of day, temperature, and age), rings with stones or other gemstones—especially those with larger, heavier settings—frequently don't fit snugly enough and can easily twist downwards.If the ring were designed so tightly that such twisting was not possible, the ring could no longer be pushed over the finger joint (at least not without causing pain or injury).

[0003] The use of flexible materials to solve this problem is out of the question, as the presence of base metals would preclude hallmarking. With known pearl rings, where drilled pearls are held on a flexible (rubber) band, the problem arises—apart from the lack of hallmarking—that such rings or bands are not comparable to solid (jewelry) rings in terms of their shape stability and durability.

[0004] The same problem described at the beginning also occurs with (cast) rings whose ring rail consists of spheres arranged in a row and rigidly connected to each other.

[0005] Rings and bracelets in which decorative elements are movably held on a rigid ring band are also generally known. (DE 299 03 116 U1). By attaching the decorative elements to the ring band in a way that allows them to rotate around their own axis, the design aims to increase wearing comfort and make putting the ring on and taking it off easier. While the decorative elements are intended to cover more than half of the ring band, sufficient space should remain between them to allow gemstones set in the band to peek through.

[0006] Since these rings are also designed so that the individual decorative elements can be loosely inserted into the ring band, they—although more stable than the beaded bands described above—are not comparable to solid (jewelry) rings in terms of their shape retention and durability. Thus, these rings give less the impression of a conventional, hallmarked (jewelry) ring with a rigid band, and more the impression of a bangle with loosely attached charms that constantly shift position depending on the hand position when the bangle is worn. This impression is further reinforced by the fact that the ring band and the decorative elements are made of different materials, which also renders them incapable of being hallmarked.In addition, the cylindrical jewelry elements, which are supposedly necessary to achieve improved wearing comfort, actually cause injuries and pain when putting on and taking off the ring, as the skin is pinched between the edges of adjacent jewelry elements, especially when the jewelry elements are pressed outwards when overcoming the finger joint. Description of the invention

[0007] The present invention therefore aims to provide a hallmarkable ring that can be worn as jewelry, avoiding the disadvantages outlined above. Further objectives of the invention will become apparent from the description.

[0008] One object of the invention is solved by a ring, in particular a jewelry ring or smart ring, comprising at least a first inner ring and at least three hollow spheres rotatably mounted on the first inner ring, wherein each of the three hollow spheres is arranged in its own third of the circle of the first inner ring.

[0009] Unlike the prior art, the use of spherical rolling elements, which are rotatably mounted on the first inner ring, ensures, on the one hand, a particularly high level of wearing comfort and improved user-friendliness, especially when putting on and taking off the ring. On the other hand, the The use of hollow spheres provides a particularly stable bearing arrangement for the rolling elements on the first inner ring, as the hollow spheres can be mounted with minimal play on the inner ring and yet rotate freely without tilting on the inner ring during rotation. In particular, it can be designed so that the hollow spheres and the first inner ring have virtually no play and can be moved by hand (clearance fit d according to the system of unit bores defined in DIN 7157), or move without noticeable play (clearance fit d^6). 7 according to the system defined in DIN 7157 (unit bore), or are just barely movable by hand (clearance fit d^6). 7(according to the standard bore system defined in DIN 7157). Furthermore, particularly cost-effective manufacturing of the ring as a hallmarkable jewelry ring is possible, especially since the use of hollow spheres results in material savings and the entire ring, in particular the first inner ring and all hollow spheres, can be made of (the same) high-quality precious metal. In particular, the first inner ring and any further inner rings can be designed as, preferably closed, ring shanks. The first inner ring, preferably all inner rings, can be dimensionally stable and / or elastically deformable. In particular, the first inner ring, preferably all inner rings, can have a modulus of elasticity of more than 10 GPa, more than 50 GPa, or even more than 70 GPa.The arrangement of at least three hollow spheres and the different circular sections of the first inner ring creates a three-point contact point on the user's finger. This allows the ring to be guided along the finger at these three points, or rather, with these three hollow spheres, when putting it on and taking it off. The rotating mounting of the at least three hollow spheres on the first inner ring creates a rolling effect, making it particularly easy to put the ring on and take it off. This rolling effect also allows for significantly smaller ring sizes than with conventional rings, which further contributes to a particularly secure fit. In particular, the hollow spheres of the ring create spherical indentations in the user's skin, increasing the contact area of ​​the ring and, due to the increased friction, ensuring even better adhesion to the finger.This reliably prevents the ring from twisting, even in rings with very large and heavy stone settings.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, it is provided that further hollow spheres are rotatably mounted on the first inner ring.

[0011] This makes the aforementioned rolling effect even more pronounced, simplifying the handling of the ring and improving wearing comfort. In particular, when putting the ring on and taking it off, it can be supported by all the hollow spheres on the finger or guided along the finger, thus enabling even more comfortable rolling of the ring on and off. Preferably, the entire first inner ring, optionally except for a receiving element described below, can be covered or fitted with hollow spheres. Such an embodiment allows for particularly effortless passage over the finger joint.

[0012] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the hollow spheres are mounted on the inner ring in a non-displaceable manner in the circumferential direction of the first inner ring. According to another preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the hollow spheres have a spherical diameter and are mounted on the first inner ring in a displaceable manner in the circumferential direction of the first inner ring by at most half, preferably at most 10-40%, and particularly preferably at most 20-30%, of the sphere diameter.

[0013] This results in a ring that possesses all the aforementioned advantages, while maintaining a shape stability comparable to solid (jewelry) rings. This increases the acceptance of rings according to the invention among users.

[0014] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, it is provided that at least one further inner ring with rotatably mounted hollow spheres is provided, which further inner ring is connected to the first inner ring via at least one connecting element.

[0015] In this way, rings with complex structures can be created, which also offer the advantages described above. All statements made above in connection with the first inner ring can also apply to the second inner ring; the same applies to the hollow spheres rotatably mounted on the second inner ring. The first inner ring and the second inner ring can be connected to each other by means of at least one connecting element. This enables a particularly space-saving, ergonomic, and dimensionally stable arrangement of receiving elements, such as stone settings, on the ring according to the invention, as described in detail below. The connecting element(s) can be designed as round wire with round wire loops. Preferably, all connecting elements are made of the same material as the hollow spheres and the first inner ring, and optionally, any second inner ring.The connecting element(s) can, for example, be rotationally fixed to the first inner ring. and / or connected to the further inner ring, in particular soldered or laser-soldered.

[0016] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the connecting element is rotatably connected to the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring.

[0017] This makes it possible to guide the ring according to the invention, which comprises, for example, two interconnected inner rings with rotatable hollow spheres, even more easily and comfortably over the finger joint, thus further increasing user-friendliness. In addition, the two inner rings—along with the hollow spheres attached to them—can follow the movements of the finger while the (double) ring is worn by the user as intended, which contributes to increased wearing comfort. Furthermore, it becomes possible to wear the (double) ring in such a way that one inner ring, for example, the first inner ring, is positioned proximal to the finger joint, and the other inner ring, for example, the second inner ring, is positioned distal to the finger joint. In other words, while the first inner ring is already slid over the finger joint when the ring is put on, the second inner ring remains in front of the finger joint.This allows rings to be worn in front of the finger joint without the risk of them accidentally slipping off and being lost. The inner ring worn behind the finger joint prevents the outer inner ring from slipping off thanks to the connecting element. Furthermore, the inner rings can easily move with the finger during bending and straightening movements without restricting the wearer.

[0018] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, it is provided that the first inner ring is connected to the further inner ring via several connecting elements.

[0019] In this way, a particularly stable connection can be created between the first inner ring and the second inner ring, and a reliable positioning of the second inner ring relative to the first inner ring can be ensured. Furthermore, additional possibilities for accommodating receiving elements, such as stone settings, are created on the ring according to the invention, as described in detail below.

[0020] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, it is provided that the connecting elements have the same length, or that at least two of the connecting elements have different lengths.

[0021] By providing several connecting elements of the same length, a (double) ring with two parallel inner rings can be created. With connecting elements of different lengths, however, the inner rings can be fixed in a V-shape relative to each other, for example. Both embodiments allow for the flexible placement of receiving elements, such as stone settings, on the ring according to the invention, as described in detail below. It has proven particularly advantageous that, by providing such connecting elements, the ring according to the invention has sections that run longitudinally along the user's finger. These sections can be used, as described in more detail below, to support the ring on the finger with corresponding support elements or to bring the support elements into surface contact with a longitudinal section of the finger.In particular, with smart ring versions of the ring according to the invention, this has the advantage that, for example, sensors for recording vital functions can work particularly reliably, since these are arranged in the area of ​​the connecting elements and can therefore easily be brought into broad contact with the user's skin.

[0022] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, it is provided that at least one, preferably each, connecting element is dimensionally stable.

[0023] This can give the ring a special stability, resulting in a wearing experience comparable to a conventional, solid (jewelry) ring.

[0024] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, it is provided that at least one, preferably each, connecting element is designed to be flexible.

[0025] This makes putting on and taking off the (double) ring even easier and more comfortable, as unevenness, thickenings and bends can be overcome or passed more easily.

[0026] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the ring comprises at least one receiving element.

[0027] This allows the ring to be given additional functionality. Depending on the type of mounting element, the ring can, for example, be designed to hold a gemstone, a stone setting, and / or electronic components.

[0028] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the receiving element is rigidly connected to the first inner ring and / or to the further inner ring.

[0029] This makes it possible to securely and stably hold even relatively large or heavy gemstones. By connecting the holding element to the first or subsequent inner rings, a height range can be adjusted, determining the distance between the user's skin and the holding element. This height range can be made very small—or even zero in extreme cases—by connecting the first and / or subsequent inner rings to the holding element at an upper level. Conversely, this height range can be made much larger by connecting the first and / or subsequent inner rings to the holding element at a lower level. This allows the ring to be optimized for various applications.For example, free-floating settings (greater height range) may be preferred for purely decorative ring applications, while in the case of a smart ring application, close skin contact with the receiving element (no free height range) may be advantageous.

[0030] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the receiving element is rigidly connected to one or more connecting elements.

[0031] This has proven particularly advantageous with regard to ease of use and wearing comfort. The placement of the receiving element on the connecting element(s) allows the first and / or second inner ring to be fully fitted with rotatable hollow spheres, ensuring exceptionally easy application and removal of the ring, as it can be rolled completely onto and off the finger. At the same time, it is possible to equip the ring with additional components, such as decorative elements like gemstones, and / or electronic components like sensors, without compromising wearing comfort or ease of use.

[0032] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the receiving element is designed to receive a stone setting or the receiving element is designed as a stone setting.

[0033] This makes it possible to set the ring with comparatively large or heavy gemstones without affecting the handling or rolling effect described above. Preferably, the receiving element has an opening on its underside – facing the finger when the ring is being worn as intended – to facilitate easier cleaning of a gemstone held in the setting.

[0034] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the receiving element is designed to receive electronic components.

[0035] This makes it possible to equip the ring with additional functionality. In particular, the ring can be designed as a smart ring (Smart Ring, Smart-Ring) according to this embodiment.

[0036] A smart ring is a compact, wearable electronic device that combines mobile technology with additional functions. These devices, typically worn like a traditional ring, enable features such as mobile payments, access control, gesture control, activity tracking, and monitoring of vital signs. Smart rings can connect to smartphones or other devices for interaction. They can also communicate with cloud-based systems or perform independent tasks.

[0037] The smart ring according to this embodiment can be equipped with a variety of sensors and technologies that enable it to collect and process various data. It can connect to a smartphone or other devices via Bluetooth or NFC. Through its connection to a smartphone, the smart ring can receive notifications such as calls, text messages, or app alerts and discreetly notify the user through gentle vibrations. The smart ring can also include sensors for monitoring heart rate, sleep, and steps to collect, monitor, and analyze health and fitness data. Furthermore, the smart ring can allow the user to perform simple actions through hand gestures, such as muting calls or navigating through documents or presentation slides displayed on another device.

[0038] Since the sensors of a smart ring require close skin contact to function reliably, such rings should be particularly tight – yet still comfortable. The ring according to this preferred embodiment allows electronic components (such as batteries, sensors, microchips, computing and communication units, microphones, cameras) to be housed within the receiving element; at the same time, a particularly secure hold and a tight fit are ensured because, due to the rotatably mounted hollow spheres, a significantly smaller ring size can be used than in the case of conventional smart rings. Thus, even in cold conditions or contact with water, loss of the ring due to slipping off is prevented, and reliable data acquisition is guaranteed.

[0039] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the receiving element is designed on an outer side to receive a stone setting and / or to receive a stone setting.

[0040] Particularly when the receiving element is designed as a housing for electronic components, especially sensors and microchips, this embodiment allows the primarily functional ring to be upgraded to a more sophisticated piece of jewelry. For example, an upper outer surface – facing away from the user's finger during operation – can be fitted with a stone setting or be designed as such. Alternatively or additionally, an inner outer surface – facing the user's center of the body during operation (i.e., proximally oriented) and / or an outer surface – facing away from the user's center of the body during operation (i.e., distally oriented) – of the receiving element can be designed to receive or be fitted with a stone setting.This can increase the acceptance of smart rings among the population, so that the vital function monitoring of smart rings can ensure automated early detection of medical emergencies - especially among older users - as well as rapid alerting of rescue services.

[0041] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring is designed as a round wire made of 14-karat or 18-karat gold, in particular white gold, or sterling silver, wherein the round wire preferably has a diameter of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, particularly preferably 1 mm or 1.2 mm.

[0042] It has been shown that, particularly when using round wire, a particularly stable mounting of the hollow spheres on the first inner ring and / or on the subsequent inner ring is possible. Furthermore, this prevents tilting and wedging of the hollow spheres, thus allowing the rolling effect to be utilized even more effectively. Inner rings made of 14-karat gold (58.33% gold by mass) or 18-karat gold The use of high-karat gold (75.0% gold by weight) or sterling silver gives the ring exceptional stability and resistance to deformation caused by external forces, which also contributes to a more effective roll effect. With a (round wire) diameter of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, preferably 1 mm or 1.2 mm, the necessary stability of the inner ring can be ensured, and manufacturing costs can be reduced through material savings.

[0043] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the hollow spheres and / or the receiving element are made of, preferably 14-karat or 18-karat, gold or sterling silver.

[0044] This allows the ring to be manufactured to a particularly high standard; in particular, the ring can also be sold in countries with strict hallmarking laws, since all parts of the ring are made of precious metal.

[0045] Hallmarking refers to the stamping of a precious metal object. The hallmarks applied to a precious metal object indicate, for example, its fineness, the manufacturer, or the body that verified its fineness. Most countries have regulations mandating the application of certain hallmarks to precious metal objects. Therefore, depending on the regulations of the country in question, precious metal objects often bear one or more of the following hallmarks: fineness mark, manufacturer's mark, official mark or mark of an independent assay office, year of manufacture, and responsibility mark.

[0046] Furthermore, this choice of material for the hollow spheres and / or the receiving element has proven particularly advantageous in terms of the required resistance to external forces. This reliably prevents deformation of the hollow spheres and / or the receiving element. Precious metals also do not corrode, so the rings – unlike rings made with steel springs or plastics – have a virtually unlimited lifespan.

[0047] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the hollow spheres have an (outer) diameter between 2 mm and 6 mm, in particular between 3 mm and 5 mm, and most preferably between 2 mm or 4 mm.

[0048] This preferred size selection allows for the identification of those areas of the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring which lie between two The gaps between adjacent hollow spheres, or between the receiving element (or, in the case of multiple receiving elements, between the receiving elements) and the respective adjacent hollow spheres, should be kept as small as possible. Furthermore, using hollow spheres of this size allows for the particularly simple production of rings with optimal unit sizes, whereby, for example, the unit sizes S (Small), M (Medium), and L (Large) can be achieved by omitting a hollow sphere (from M to S) or by adding a hollow sphere (from M to L), and each can individually cover a range of conventional ring sizes.

[0049] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the hollow spheres are provided to have a wall thickness between 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm, in particular between 0.2 mm and 0.4 mm, and most preferably 0.3 mm.

[0050] This allows for an optimal balance between low production costs through material savings on the one hand, and the desired structural integrity of the ring on the other. In particular, a significantly greater reduction in manufacturing costs can be achieved compared to the use of (drilled) solid spheres.

[0051] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the hollow spheres have two bores through which the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring is / are passed.

[0052] This allows for particularly easy and free-running storage of the hollow spheres on the first inner ring and / or the subsequent inner ring. This improves the rolling effect when placing and removing the ring.

[0053] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the receiving element has two bores through which the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring is / are passed.

[0054] Unlike the hollow spheres, the receiving element is not rotatable but rigidly attached to the first inner ring and / or the subsequent inner ring. The bores allow the connection points that mediate this rigid connection to be located inside the receiving element. This proves particularly advantageous with regard to the desired free rotation of the hollow spheres, especially since connection points, such as solder joints, on the outside of the receiving element can lead to individual—or in extreme cases—all of the hollow spheres becoming jammed or wedged when the ring is moved over the finger joint.

[0055] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, it is provided that the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring is soldered to the receiving element on an inner side of the receiving element, in particular laser soldered.

[0056] By placing the solder points on the inside of the mounting element, a particularly space-saving attachment of the mounting element is ensured, one that does not restrict the rotation of the hollow spheres. Due to the locally confined heat input during laser soldering, it is ensured, especially when the first inner ring and / or the subsequent inner ring are connected to the mounting element by laser soldering, that the first inner ring and / or the subsequent inner ring and / or the mounting element are subjected to only very low stress in the areas adjacent to the solder joint; furthermore, annealing of the first and / or subsequent inner ring and / or the mounting element can be avoided. Overall, joining by laser soldering thus enables a particularly dimensionally stable and durable ring design to be achieved.

[0057] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, it is provided that the ends of the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring are soldered, in particular laser soldered, to the receiving element on the inside, in particular in the area of ​​the bores.

[0058] In this design, the first inner ring and / or the subsequent inner ring are not closed, but rather connected at their ends to the receiving element, specifically to the inner surface of the receiving element. This allows for particularly easy mounting of the receiving element to the first or subsequent inner ring. Furthermore, it permits access to the components within the receiving element, especially gemstones and / or electronic components, from the underside of the receiving element. This facilitates, for example, the cleaning and / or maintenance of these components.

[0059] According to a further preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the underside of the receiving element is curved, wherein the curvature of the underside of the receiving element preferably corresponds to a curvature of the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring.

[0060] This improves the wearing comfort of the ring, especially since the underside of the receiving element can thus form an extension of an imaginary line which The imaginary line includes the outermost point on each hollow sphere, the one closest to the finger. According to a preferred embodiment of the ring according to the invention, the receiving element has a concave receiving section in the area of ​​each bore for the section-wise receiving of a hollow sphere adjacent to the receiving element. This prevents predetermined breaking points of the first inner ring and / or the subsequent inner ring, which can occur under corresponding shear forces in the area between the receiving element and the adjacent hollow sphere. Brief description of the characters

[0061] The invention will now be explained in more detail using several exemplary embodiments. However, the following explanations are neither intended to restrict nor to provide an exhaustive account of the invention. The figures are merely schematic representations; they show Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of the first inner ring, Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a first embodiment, Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 2 in a top view. Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a second embodiment, Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 4 in a top view. Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a third embodiment. Fig. 7 is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 6 in a top view, Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a fourth embodiment in a top view. Fig. 9 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a fifth embodiment in a top view. Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a sixth embodiment in a top view. Fig. 11 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a seventh embodiment in a top view. Fig. 11 shows a schematic representation of the ring in an eighth embodiment in a top view. Fig. 12 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a ninth embodiment in a top view. Fig. 13 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a tenth embodiment in a side view, Fig. 14 shows a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 13 without the receiving element. Fig. 15 shows a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 11 in a top view with receiving element, Fig. 16 shows a schematic representation of the ring in an eleventh embodiment in a side view and in a first state, Fig. 17 is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 16 in a side view and in a second state, Fig. 18 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a twelfth embodiment in a side view and in a first state, Fig. 19 is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 18 in a side view and in a second state, Fig. 20 shows a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 18 in a side view and in a third state, Fig. 21 shows a schematic representation of a first application example of the ring, Fig. 22a shows a schematic representation of a second application example of the ring, Fig. 22b shows another schematic representation of the second application example of the Rings, Fig. 22c shows another schematic representation of the second application example of the Rings, Fig. 22d shows a further schematic representation of the second application example of the Rings, Fig. 23a shows a schematic representation of the third application example of the ring, Fig. 23c shows a further schematic representation of the third application example of the Rings, Fig. 24a shows a schematic representation of a fourth application example of the ring, Fig. 24b shows another schematic representation of the fourth application example of the ring, Fig. 24c shows another schematic representation of the fourth application example of the ring, Fig. 25a shows a schematic representation of a fifth application example of the ring, Fig. 25b shows another schematic representation of the fifth application example of the ring, Fig. 26a shows a schematic representation of a sixth application example of the ring, Fig. 26b shows another schematic representation of the sixth application example of the ring, Fig. 27a a schematic representation of the ring in a thirteenth Example of a side view, Fig. 27b is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 27a in a sectional view, Fig. 28a a schematic representation of the ring in a fourteenth Example of a sectional view, Fig. 28b is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 28a in a top view according to a first variant, Fig. 28c is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 28a in a top view according to a second variant, Fig. 28d is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 28a in a top view according to a third variant, Fig. 28e is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 28a in a top view according to a fourth variant, Fig. 29a a schematic representation of the ring in a fifteenth Example of implementation, Fig. 29b is a schematic representation of the ring from Fig. 29a in a top view, and Fig. 30 shows a schematic representation of the ring in a sixteenth embodiment. Ways to implement the invention

[0062] Figures 1, 2, and 3 depict the first embodiment of the ring 1. A total of 17 hollow spheres 3 are mounted on a first inner ring 2, and the hollow spheres 3 are rotatable about the first inner ring 2. Each hollow sphere 3 comprises two bores 4 (not shown here, see, for example, Figure 30), through which the first inner ring 2 passes. The bores 4 are opposite each other, so that the inner diameter of the bores 4 must be larger for small ring sizes or when the first inner ring 2 is strongly curved than for larger ring sizes or a less curved inner ring 2, in order to prevent jamming and / or blocking of the hollow spheres 3. There is no or only a minimal gap between the individual hollow spheres 3—just enough to prevent the hollow spheres 3 from tilting and to ensure their free rotation. In Figure 3, the hollow spheres 3 are shown in Figure 3.Figure 3 shows the path of the first inner ring 2 with a dashed line. This creates a rolling ring that is particularly easy and comfortable to put on and take off, and has a particularly secure hold on the user's finger.

[0063] In the illustrated embodiment, the ring is made entirely of 14-karat gold, i.e., both the first inner ring 2 and the hollow spheres 3. The first inner ring 2 is designed as a round wire, which has a diameter of approximately The inner diameter of the bores 4 of the hollow spheres 3 is approximately 1.4 mm, and the wall thickness of the hollow spheres 3 is approximately 0.3 mm.

[0064] Figures 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 depict further embodiments of the ring 1, in which, in addition to the elements shown in Figures 1-3, the ring 1 includes a receiving element 5. Here, the receiving element 5 is designed as a stone setting or setting for a gemstone and is also made of 14-karat gold. The illustrated embodiments differ only in the shape of the setting used (oval, round, square).

[0065] Fig. 9 shows a further embodiment of the ring 1, wherein the ring 1 additionally comprises a further inner ring 6, which is connected to the first inner ring 2 via connecting elements 7. The first inner ring 2 and the further inner ring 6 are arranged parallel to each other. The further inner ring 6 is also fitted with rotatably mounted hollow spheres 4 and does not differ from the first inner ring 2. This creates a double rolling ring, which offers all the advantages of the rolling ring and is particularly advantageous with regard to wearing comfort and a space-saving and stable mounting of a receiving element. The connecting elements 7 can be either rigidly or rotatably connected to the first inner ring 2 and the further inner ring 6; depending on the type of connection, the behavior of the ring 1 changes when it is rolled over obstacles.

[0066] Fig. 10 illustrates, for example, a double rolling ring, the receiving element 5 of which is not attached to the ring rail as with conventional rings, but to the connecting elements 7 and is thus arranged between the first inner ring 2 and the further inner ring 6.

[0067] Figures 11 and 12 show further embodiments of the ring 1, with Figure 11 showing a double rolling ring with longer connecting elements 7 than in Figures 9 and 10, and Figure 12 showing a triple rolling ring. The triple rolling ring differs from the double rolling ring only in that the first inner ring 2 is connected not to one, but to two further inner rings 6, with the first inner ring 2 being arranged between the two further inner rings 6.

[0068] Fig. 14 relates to a further embodiment of the ring 1, wherein several connecting elements 7 are also provided, by which connecting elements 7 the first inner ring 2 (provided with hollow spheres 3) and the further inner ring 6 (provided with hollow spheres 3) are connected to each other. Unlike the one described above. In this double rolling ring, not all connecting elements 7 have the same length, resulting in an approximately V-shaped angled rolling ring. The first inner ring 2 and the further inner ring 6 enclose an angle of less than 90°. Here, two connecting elements 7 (the second connecting element is located behind the first connecting element 7 in Fig. 14 and is therefore not visible in the side view) with a first length, and two further connecting elements 7 (again, one is concealed by the other connecting element 7) with a second length are provided, the second length being chosen to be shorter than the first length.

[0069] Double, triple, and angled rolling rings can also be equipped with receiving elements, such as stone settings, as shown in Fig. 13 for the angled rolling ring and in Fig. 15 for the double rolling ring. The stone setting can, for example, be supported on one or both connecting elements 7 of the first length and rigidly connected to them (Fig. 13). Alternatively, the stone setting can also be held or fastened between two connecting elements 7 (Fig. 15).

[0070] Figures 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 relate to a further embodiment of the ring 1, wherein the ring 1 here also comprises the first inner ring 2 and the further inner ring 6; however, unlike in previously described embodiments, only one connecting element 7 is provided here, which connecting element 7 is rotatably connected—here, for example, by eyelets encompassing the two inner rings 2 and 6—to the first inner ring 2 and the further inner ring 7. Thus, the two inner rings 2 and 7 can change their relative position and orientation to each other, so that this ring 1 can assume different states.

[0071] In particular, the user can fold this ring 1 into a closed position, in which the first inner ring 2 and the second inner ring 7 are arranged essentially parallel to each other (Fig. 17). By unfolding the ring 1, it can then be moved, via an intermediate state (Fig. 18), into an open position, in which the first inner ring 2 and the second inner ring 7 are arranged essentially in one plane (Figs. 16, 19). By folding the ring 1 closed, it can be moved, via another intermediate state (Fig. 20), back into the closed position (Fig. 17). Thus, a hinged roller ring is created, which is characterized by exceptional wearing comfort and the ability to follow the user's finger movements while wearing it, and to hold one inner ring 2 in its position on the finger by the second inner ring 6.This is particularly advantageous if one of the two inner rings 2, 6 or even both inner rings 2, 6 are equipped with a stone setting and an undesirable situation arises due to the size or weight of the gemstone. Rotation of ring 1 could occur, which in this embodiment could be prevented even more reliably by the other inner ring.

[0072] Besides its use as jewelry, ring 1 can also be used in other areas. Examples of such applications are shown in Figures 21, 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b, 24c, 25a, 25b, 26a, and 26b. For example, ring 1 can be used as a roller bearing in pipe-in-pipe systems to allow one pipe to slide and rotate against another (Figure 21). Ring 1 can be used with a wide variety of pipe cross-sections and shapes (Figures 22a-22d). The ring 1 can also be used in the form of a double rolling ring in a tube (Fig. 23a, 23b) in order to be inserted - especially in a slightly compressed state - into a first section of the tube and moved (rolled) in the longitudinal direction of the tube and, as soon as the ring reaches a cross-sectional expansion of the tube, to expand and be fixed in its position without the need for any further aids.The rolling ring 1, positioned on the inner wall of a pipe, can, for example, influence the flow characteristics of a fluid flowing through the pipe as desired. The first inner ring 2, or (in the case of double or multiple rolling rings) the inner rings 2 and 6, can be designed as compression springs, for example, made of spring steel. Alternatively, the first inner ring 2 and / or the subsequent inner ring 6 can also be designed as tension springs, for example, made of spring steel, in order to position the ring 1—especially in a slightly expanded state—on the outside of a pipe and to move or roll it longitudinally along the pipe (Figs. 24a, 24b). In this way, the ring 1 can easily be guided around bends in the pipe or hose (Fig. 24c) or overcome bulges and be held in depressions (Figs. 25a, 25b, 25c).These properties also make Ring 1 ideal for medical applications, such as when blood vessels need structural support during a procedure, (swollen) joints need to be immobilized, bones need to be splinted, tears need to be covered, or aneurysms need to be fixed in place. Several Rings 1 can be used and positioned at two different points on the vessel, for example, in front of and behind an aneurysm (Figs. 26a, 26b). Surgical drapes, vascular prostheses, antimicrobial incision drapes, or similar items can also be attached to the rings (not shown) to position them precisely on the vessel and fix them in place.

[0073] Furthermore, other application examples of ring 1 are conceivable that are not shown in the figures, for example lifting devices for lifting Heavy pipes, which are held (for example, at two end sections) by single or multiple rolling rings, or vehicles in which single or multiple rolling rings are used to move heavy loads. Several inner rings can be connected to form complex structures using multiple connecting elements to utilize the rolling effect at different points. Examples include concentrically arranged inner rings of different sizes lying in one plane and connected by radial connecting elements; vertically stacked inner rings connected by vertical connecting elements; or inner rings arranged side by side in one plane, for example, in a square pattern and connected in pairs by horizontal connecting elements.Rotatable hollow spheres are arranged on all inner rings in the manner described above, so that a ring 1 can be realized.

[0074] Furthermore, the ring 1 can also be equipped with a receiving element 5 in which electronic components are housed (Figs. 27a, 27b, 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d, 28e, 29a, 29b). Similar to a socket, the receiving element 5 equipped with electronic components can be attached to the first inner ring 2 and / or to the further inner ring 6, or also to one or more connecting elements 7. Preferably, however, the receiving element 5 is attached to the first inner ring 2 and / or to the further inner ring 6, such that an underside 8 of the receiving element 5, which faces the user's finger when the ring 1 is worn on a finger as intended, is in close contact with the skin of the finger when the ring 1 is rolled over a knuckle of the finger and positioned in the usual position.The position of the receiving element 5 on the first inner ring 2 and / or the subsequent inner ring 6 can preferably be determined by selecting a suitable contact point between the respective inner ring 2, 6 and the receiving element 5. The higher the contact point between the respective inner ring 2, 6 and the receiving element 5, the lower the underside 8 of the receiving element 5 will be positioned, and the closer the receiving element 5 can lie to the skin of the user's finger. This is particularly important if the receiving element 5 is equipped with sensors for recording vital functions and physical activity, such as heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, calorie intake, step count, body temperature, sleep phases, etc. These sensors can be brought into contact with the user's skin via the underside 8 and fixed in position there.The receiving element 5, which can be designed as a housing for electronic components, can accommodate further components. It can house components such as batteries, microchips, cameras, microphones, etc. In this way, a smart ring is created that is not affected by the problems and disadvantages typically encountered with known smart rings. In particular, the ring 1, even in its smart ring configuration—unlike the previously described embodiments, which in this configuration also include electronic components—utilizes the rolling effect, thus ensuring a particularly secure fit of the ring 1 on the finger. This prevents liquid (water, sweat) from accumulating between the skin and the underside 8 of the receiving element 5, which can be designed as a sensor surface or at least partially equipped with sensors, and thus prevents it from impairing the functionality of the smart ring.In particular, due to the rolling effect, rings 1 can be used that are significantly smaller, for example, three ring sizes smaller, than would be necessary for conventional (smart) rings. Even with severely swollen or enlarged joints, a secure fit of the ring 1 is guaranteed. Furthermore, a ring 1 in a specific size (e.g., XS, S, M, L, XL) covers a range of conventional ring sizes, so, for example, a size S ring 1 can be worn by people with ring sizes 50, 51, or 52. This leads to considerable logistical simplifications, especially for smart rings, which are typically sold online, as the number of returns due to incorrect sizing can be significantly reduced.

[0075] To increase public acceptance of smart rings, the receiving element 5, which houses the electronic components, can also be fitted with stone settings (Fig. 28b) and / or stone embellishments (Figs. 28c, 28d, 28e). This allows for the creation of a jewelry smart ring that combines the functional advantages of smart rings with the attractive appearance of jewelry rings. Possible options include brilliant-cut diamond solitaires with settings mounted on or recessed into the receiving element 5 (Fig. 28b), a brilliant-cut upper surface 9 of the receiving element 5 (Fig. 28c), a brilliant-cut upper surface 9 (Fig. 28d), or a brilliant-cut upper surface 9 (Fig. 28e).In general, it should be noted that the jewel-like character achieved through the use of gemstones allows for a smart ring with virtually unlimited design possibilities.

[0076] Figures 29a and 29b show a ring 1 in a smart ring design with a socket mounted on the upper outer surface 9 of the receiving element 5. A camera 10 and a microphone 11 are also integrated into the upper outer surface 9. arranged. The socket can also be equipped with additional functionality by being rotatably connected to the receiving element 5 and by changing a rotational position of the socket allowing selection between several, for example four, operating modes of the smart ring.

[0077] Fig. 30 shows a schematic sectional view of a ring 1 with a receiving element 5 designed as a socket. It can be seen that the receiving element 5 has two bores 12 through which the ends of the first inner ring 2 pass in order to be rotationally fixed to an inner surface 13 of the receiving element 5, in particular by soldering, preferably by laser soldering. In the area of ​​each bore 12, the receiving element 5 has a concave receiving section 14 for the partial reception of a hollow sphere 3 adjacent to the receiving element 5. The shape of the receiving section 14 can essentially correspond to the (spherical) shape of the adjacent hollow sphere 3. By providing corresponding receiving sections 14, (shear) forces occurring when the finger joint is moved can be dissipated via the receiving element 5 and the respective adjacent hollow spheres 3.The material is homogenized to prevent weak points in the first inner ring 2, which can occur under shear forces in the area between the receiving element 5 and the adjacent hollow sphere 3. Figure 30 also shows that the bores 12 are located in a (lateral) area of ​​the receiving element 5 near the underside 8, ensuring that the (slightly curved) underside 8 of the receiving element 5 is raised slightly above an inner envelope of the ring 1 (see also Figure 4). In other words, the setting floats above the finger when the ring 1 is worn as intended, so that the setting does not create resistance when rolling over the finger joint, thus preventing injuries and facilitating painless putting on and taking off of the ring.

[0078] The ring or rolling ring according to the invention is characterized, in summary – and without reference to the figures – by the fact that the part of the ring which, in conventional rings, is called the ring band, consists of, or comprises, several hollow spheres rotatably mounted on a circumferential, dimensionally stable inner ring. The entire "ring band" can thus be rolled over the finger joint, which makes putting the ring on and taking it off very comfortable. It has also surprisingly been found that a significantly smaller ring size can be used with such rolling rings than with conventional rings; the finger joint can still be easily overcome, since the skin can move into the spaces between the individual spheres when the rolling ring is slid over the finger. Accordingly, a particularly secure fit of the ring on the finger can be guaranteed and twisting of the ring - even with settings with very large / heavy gemstones - can be ruled out.

[0079] The Rollring differs from conventional rings primarily in that its band consists of rotatably mounted spheres attached to a dimensionally stable inner ring. Unlike beaded rings, where the beads are held by a flexible band, the dimensionally stable inner ring results in a ring that is in no way inferior to other solid (jewelry) rings in terms of its shape stability and durability. In contrast to (cast) beaded rings, whose band consists of a series of rigidly connected spheres, the Rollring offers the aforementioned advantageous handling due to its rotatably mounted spheres. The Rollring effect is particularly pronounced when the hollow spheres are freely rotatable. A conventional rigid ring band, with, for example, only three movably mounted spheres next to each other, does not achieve this effect. Such a ring would obstruct the finger joint.

[0080] Achieving the desired shape stability with respect to the ring's form while simultaneously producing the desired rolling effect is technically challenging; preferably, a combination of a round wire made of 14-karat gold (sufficient hardness) with hollow spheres drilled on both ends (made of 14-karat or 18-karat gold or sterling silver) or drilled gemstone spheres leads to the desired result. The wall thickness of the hollow spheres is approximately 0.3 mm; their diameter can be approximately 2–4 mm. The rolling ring is preferably dimensioned so that the individual spheres either sit loosely against each other (making only loose contact) or are spaced apart by a minimal gap (approximately 0.2–1 mm) – depending on the respective ring size. If the individual spheres are too close together, they will jam when the ring is slid onto the finger, and the rolling effect will not occur (or will only occur partially).The matching of the inner ring diameter to the diameter of the hollow sphere bores is also of particular importance; too little clearance prevents the beneficial rolling ring effect from occurring, while too much clearance results in the ring losing its desired stability. With a round wire diameter of 1.2 mm, a bore diameter between 1.3 and 1.5 mm has proven effective.

[0081] It is also important to attach the inner ring to an optional socket (receiving element) of the ring; it has proven effective to drill holes in the socket on both sides, thread the round wire through these holes, and solder it inside the socket to achieve an optimal rolling effect. To further enhance the rolling effect, the socket is designed to be... The outer surface on the finger side is rounded (to complete the rolled contour of the ring and to facilitate sliding it onto the finger).

[0082] Especially as a smart ring, the rolling ring offers significant advantages, since the sensors of the smart ring require skin contact and such rings therefore need to be particularly tight. - yet still fit comfortably. The rolling ring allows for the integration of electronic components (battery, sensors, microchips, microphones, speakers, cameras, etc.) within the ring's mounting element; simultaneously, a particularly secure hold and a snug fit are ensured because the ring's design, featuring rotatable (hollow) spheres, allows for a significantly smaller ring size than conventional smart rings. This prevents the ring from slipping off, even in cold conditions or when exposed to water, and ensures reliable data acquisition – a further advantage over existing smart rings.

[0083] Furthermore, these rings offer the possibility of enhancing the ring's receiving element, i.e., the part in which the electronic components are housed, into a fully-fledged piece of jewelry by setting stones ("Smart Jewelry").

[0084] Connecting elements allow individual roller rings to be joined together to form multiple roller rings. This results in an even more secure fit of the ring on the wearer's finger, which is particularly advantageous with very large and heavy settings. The settings can be positioned either on top of or between the individual connecting elements; alternatively, the settings can also be formed by the individual connecting elements themselves.

[0085] By using connecting elements of different lengths, angled roll rings can also be created, which have the advantage that there is more space for a setting or stone in the area of ​​the longer connecting elements, and the ring can still be comparatively narrow on the underside of the finger, so that the ring, despite the setting arranged and held on the top of the finger, - Ring-shaped design does not restrict freedom of movement.

[0086] Another particularly advantageous version of the multi-roll ring results when two individual roll rings are connected by a single connecting element ("folding roll ring"). This makes it possible (with a suitable choice of the connecting element's length) to wear the ring on the finger in such a way that the first roll ring is positioned distal to the finger joint and the second roll ring is positioned proximal to the finger joint. As long as the connecting element is positioned on the underside of the finger, The multi-roller ring can follow the movement of the finger, significantly improving wearing comfort. Even when both rollers are positioned proximal to the finger joint, wearing comfort is increased because the ring is more flexible than a rigid multi-roller ring. List of reference signs 1 ring 2 first inner ring 3 Hollow spheres 4. Drilling of the hollow sphere 5 Recording element 6 additional inner rings 7 Connecting element 8 Underside of the receiving element 9 upper outer side of the receiving element 10 Camera 11 Microphone 12. Bore of the receiving element 13 Inside of the receiving element 14 Recording section

Claims

Patent claims 1. Ring, in particular a jewelry ring or smart ring, comprising at least a first inner ring and at least three hollow spheres rotatably mounted on the first inner ring, each of the three hollow spheres being arranged in its own third of the circle of the first inner ring.

2. Ring according to claim 1, characterized in that further hollow spheres are rotatably mounted on the first inner ring.

3. Ring according to claim 2, characterized in that the hollow spheres are mounted on the inner ring in a non-displaceable manner in the circumferential direction of the first inner ring.

4. Ring according to claim 2, characterized in that the hollow spheres have a sphere diameter and are mounted on the first inner ring so as to be displaceable in the circumferential direction of the first inner ring by at most half, preferably at most a quarter, of the sphere diameter.

5. Ring according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least one further inner ring with rotatably mounted hollow spheres is provided, which further inner ring is connected to the first inner ring via at least one connecting element.

6. Ring according to claim 5, characterized in that the connecting element is rotatably connected to the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring.

7. Ring according to claim 5, characterized in that the first inner ring is connected to the further inner ring via several connecting elements.

8. Ring according to claim 7, characterized in that the connecting elements have the same length.

9. Ring according to claim 8, characterized in that at least two of the connecting elements have different lengths.

10. Ring according to one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that the at least one, preferably each, connecting element is dimensionally stable.

11. Ring according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the ring comprises at least one receiving element.

12. Ring according to claim 11, characterized in that the receiving element is rotationally rigidly connected to the first inner ring and / or to the further inner ring.

13. Ring according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the receiving element is rotationally rigidly connected to one or more connecting elements.

14. Ring according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the receiving element is designed to receive a stone setting or as a stone setting.

15. Ring according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the receiving element is designed to receive electronic components.

16. Ring according to claim 15, characterized in that the receiving element is designed on an outer side to receive a stone setting and / or to receive a stone setting.

17. Ring according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring is formed as a round wire made of 14 karat gold, in particular white gold, wherein the round wire preferably has a diameter of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, particularly preferably 1 mm or 1.2 mm.

18. Ring according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the hollow spheres are made of, preferably 14-karat or 18-karat, gold or sterling silver.

19. Ring according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the hollow spheres have a diameter between 2 mm and 6 mm, in particular between 3 mm and 5 mm, particularly preferably of 2 mm or 4 mm.

20. Ring according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the hollow spheres have a wall thickness between 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm, in particular between 0.2 mm and 0.4 mm, particularly preferably 0.3 mm.

21. Ring according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the hollow spheres have two bores through which the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring is / are passed.

22. Ring according to one of claims 11 to 21, characterized in that the receiving element has two bores through which the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring is / are passed.

23. Ring according to claim 22, characterized in that the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring is / are soldered to the receiving element on an inner side of the receiving element, in particular laser soldered.

24. Ring according to claim 23, characterized in that the ends of the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring are soldered, in particular laser soldered, to the receiving element on the inside, in particular in the area of ​​the bores.

25. Ring according to one of claims 11 to 24, characterized in that an underside of the receiving element is curved, wherein the curvature of the underside of the receiving element preferably corresponds to a curvature of the first inner ring and / or the further inner ring.

26. Ring according to one of claims 11 to 25, characterized in that the receiving element has a concave receiving section in the area of ​​each bore for the section-wise receiving of a hollow sphere adjacent to the receiving element.

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