Jewelry actuating device and method of actuating a jewelry fastener

Abstract

There is provided a jewelry actuating device, in particular a jewelry fastener actuating device, that can open and close a jewelry fastener in a careful manner, and only to a desired extent. The jewelry actuating device is such that it can maintain a jewelry fastener in an open position without having to maintain a. hand grip on the device. Thus, a user can manipulate the jewelry fastener, by opening and then closing the jewelry fastener more easily, and without having to worry about maintaining a hand grip on the device. The device contains a unique biasing element which provides for a biasing of the elongate members of the device towards each other in a controlled and consistent manner such that it can be used for many differently sized jewelry fasteners.

Description

Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT JEWELRY ACTUATING DEVICE AND METHOD OF ACTUATING A JEWELRY FASTENER Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of United States Provisional Patent Application Serial No.63 / 620,540, filed on January 12, 2024, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of jewelry. More particularly, the present invention relates generally to the field of means of actuating (opening, closing, etc.) jewelry fasteners and / or connectors. Background of the Invention

[0003] Jewelry is a very common means of self-adornment which is employed by both men and women. Often a piece of jewelry can enhance one’s appearance and outfit and provide for both aesthetic beauty and value in terms of the precious metals used to make it.

[0004] However, some jewelry such as necklaces, anklets and bracelets frequently have connectors and / or fasteners that are difficult to grasp, easily retain in an open position and securely latch. Part of this problem is the fine delicate nature of many of these pieces of jewelry, but the jewelry latching process is further complicated by the limitations of the fastener and / or wearer to successfully manipulate and fasten the connectors of the piece of jewelry together.

[0005] For example, the fastening of a typical lobster claw or spring ring type clasp requires the manipulation of a small lever that extends from the annular ring of the clasp to actuate the opening and closing of the clasp. The lever can be difficult to find, manipulate and retain in an open position against the bias of the clasp visually or tactilely. Then one still has to place theApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT opposing connector of the piece of jewelry into the narrow opening of the clasp and release the lever to fasten the connectors together.

[0006] This difficult process of fastening the clasp and opposing connector of a piece of jewelry can be increased by the inability of the person doing so to see, align and fasten the connectors of the jewelry together. Other factors that can complicate this process are long fingernails and disabilities such as poor eye sight and / or arthritis that increase the visual and / or manual strain of what should be a simple process.

[0007] This difficult jewelry fastening process reduces many wearers to attempt to latch the connectors by trial and error. This can be sufficiently frustrating and painful that in many instances when the fastener is also the wearer the person is compelled to seek additional assistance or stop wearing jewelry altogether. While a number of aids have been developed to assist the fastening of the connectors of pieces of jewelry, none provide the ease of use and flexibility that many fasteners demand.

[0008] Accordingly, there remains a need for a solution to at least one of the aforementioned problems. For instance, there is an established need for an aid for the fastening and unfastening of lobster claw and spring-ring type jewelry fasteners and connectors that can readily retain the fastener / connector in an open position to facilitate the fastening and unfastening of the connectors. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present invention can be directed to a jewelry opening device. The device can open and retain open a jewelry fastener such as a clasp. The jewelry opening device is such that it can maintain a jewelry fastener in an open position without having to maintain a hand grip on the device. Thus, a user can manipulate the jewelry fastener, by opening and then closing the jewelry fastener more easily, and without having to worry about maintaining a hand grip on the device. The device contains a unique biasing element which provides for a biasing of the elongate members of the device towards each other in a controlled and consistent manner such that it can be used for many differently sized jewelry fasteners.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0010] The term “about” as used herein can entail a variance of 10% greater or lower than the value recited.

[0011] The term “comprising” as used herein also encompasses the terms “consisting essentially of” and “consisting of”.

[0012] The values of any endpoint(s) of any range(s) recited herein can be used to create different ranges or different endpoints of ranges to those described herein. The endpoints in any of the ranges described herein can also include any integer value in the recited range even if not expressly described. Thus, for example, a range of from 1.0 to 10 can include as alternate range endpoints any integer between 1 and 10, such as, the non-limiting integer examples of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9.

[0013] In a first implementation of the invention there can be provided a jewelry opening device comprising: a first flat elongate member having a proximal end and an opposing distal end, and a substantially perpendicularly angled tip on the proximal end of the first flat elongate member facing in a first direction; a second flat elongate member having a proximal end and an opposing distal end, and an obtusely angled forked tongue tip on the proximal end of the second flat elongate member facing in substantially a second direction, which is substantially opposite to the first direction; a flat sliding longitudinal biasing member which comprises: a flat portion which lies in plane over a planar surface of the first or second flat elongate member between the proximal and distal end thereof, and a wrap-around portion which extends perpendicularly from the flat portion and encapsulates sides of the first and second flat elongate members and at least part of the planar surface of an opposing first or second flat elongate member which is not overlaid by the flat portion, andApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the first and second flat elongate members towards each other in the first and second directions as the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member translates longitudinally in a direction from the distal ends towards the proximal ends of the first and second elongate members, and configured to continuously keep at least part of both of the distal ends in flush contact along planar surfaces of the first and second elongate members which are not contacted by the biasing member.

[0014] In one aspect of the invention, wherein the first flat elongate member and the second flat elongate member are longitudinally and / or laterally aligned with each other.

[0015] In another aspect of the invention, the first flat elongate member and the second flat elongate member each have a thickness of from 1 / 32 of an inch up to about 5 / 16 of an inch, preferably from about 1 / 16 of an inch up to about 1 / 4 of an inch. It will be understood that the term “flat” as regards the first and second flat elongate members can include the noted thicknesses.

[0016] In yet another aspect of the invention, wherein the first and / or second flat elongate members have a grooved gripping area along at least portion of their planar surface.

[0017] In yet even another aspect of the invention, wherein the first and / or second flat elongate members each have a length of from about 2 inches up to about 6 inches, preferably from about 2.5 inches up to about 4.5 inches.

[0018] In yet one other aspect of the invention, wherein the first and second elongate members have the same tapering widths from the distal end to a border of the tips of the proximal ends and can preferably be from about 1 / 8 of an inch up to about ½ of an inch.

[0019] In another aspect of the invention, the elongate members can be made of a metal material, preferably a metal material selected from the group consisting of aluminum, steel, stainless steel, low carbon austenitic steel, chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and combinations thereof. More preferably, the elongate members can be made of low carbon austenitic steel which contains chromium and has nickel and molybdenum as additional alloying elements.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0020] In yet even one other aspect of the invention the expression “substantially perpendicularly angled” as regards the tip of the first flat elongate member is described as having an angle deviating from 90 degrees of more or less than 10 degrees therefrom, with the understanding that the angle is the angle between the planar surface of the first flat elongate member and the planar surface of the first flat elongate member.

[0021] In yet still one other aspect of the invention, the proximal and distal ends of the elongate members are opposite longitudinal ends thereof.

[0022] In another embodiment herein the expression “obtusely angled” as regards the obtusely angled forked tongue tip can comprise an angle of greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees, preferably from about 100 degrees to about 170 degrees, preferably from about 110 degrees to about 160 degrees and most preferably from about 115 degrees to about 150 degrees.

[0023] In yet still even another aspect of the invention, the expression ‘’substantially opposite” will be understood as regards the obtusely angled forked tip of the proximal end of the second flat elongate member relative to the substantially perpendicularly angled tip of the proximal end of the first elongate member, or alternatively wherein the angle of the obtusely angled forked tip and the substantially perpendicularly angled tip are within a difference in degrees of no more than 45 degrees from each other, preferably no more than about 30 degrees from each other in terms of their respective angles. In another embodiment, the expression “substantially opposite” can be directly opposite to each other, or within 5 degrees of each other.

[0024] In another aspect of the invention, the thickness of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member can have a thickness in both its flat portion and its wrap around portion which falls within the thickness described herein for the elongate members.

[0025] In yet another aspect of the invention, the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member can have a length less than that of the elongate members, preferably from about 1 inch to about 3 inches, preferably from about 1.5 inches to about 2.5 inches. The flat sliding longitudinal biasing member can have a uniform width or a tapered width which corresponds to the width of the elongate members described herein. The flat sliding longitudinal biasing member can be made of the same or different selection of materials set out herein for the elongate members.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0026] In yet another aspect of the invention, the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member can further comprise an elevated gripping element on a planar surface of the flat portion, preferably the elevated gripping element can be dome-shaped, preferably dome-shaped with grooves thereon, and most preferably wherein the elevated gripping element is made of an elastomeric material, such as, but not limited to natural rubber, synthetic rubber, ethylene rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, EPDM rubber, polyisoprene rubber, butyl rubber, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, silicone rubber, polyurethane, cork, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment the elevated gripping element can wrap around the flat portion of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member in part or entirely, or alternatively, the elevated gripping element can have the flat portion of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member pass therethrough.

[0027] In yet even another aspect of the invention, the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member can have a stadium shaped aperture along the flat portion and a post which is oriented perpendicular to the flat portion of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member, and which can pass through the aperture and make contact with the underlying elongate member. The contact made with the underlying elongate member can impart a displacement of the elongate member and the flat portion of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member away from each other to a small amount such as from about 1 / 16 of an inch up to about ¼ of an inch. Such displacement can also work alone or in conjunction with the wrap-around portion as described herein to provide for the ability of the jewelry opening device to have the biasing remain between the elongate members, i.e., to be locked in place, upon removal of a hand grip therefrom. The stadium-shaped aperture can lie between the elevated gripping element and the wrap around portion of the biasing member, can be centrally located along the width of the flat portion and can have a length of ¾ of an inch to 1 inch less than the length of the biasing member.

[0028] In one embodiment herein the plane of the flat portion can be flush with the plane of the underlying first or second elongate member, alternatively, the plane of the flat portion can be such that it descends in a slight angle, e.g., from about 1 degree to about 10 degrees in relation to the plane of the underlying elongate member from an elevated gripping element end towards the opposing end of the flat portion, i.e., the portion contiguous the wrap-around portion of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0029] In another embodiment, the entire flat sliding longitudinal biasing member can be moved along the elongate members, i.e., translated to the extent that the post is able to be retained in the stadium shaped aperture along the length thereof. Thus, the translation can be limited to the length of the aperture.

[0030] In yet another aspect of the invention, the encapsulation of the sides by the wrap around portion can make contact with the sides of the first and second elongate members and either partially or completely cover and / or make contact with the planar surface of the opposing first or second elongate member which is not covered by the flat portion.

[0031] In yet even another aspect of the invention, as noted above, the contact made with the underlying elongate member can impart a displacement of the elongate member and the flat portion of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member away from each other to a small amount, and this feature can contribute to and / or be enhanced in terms of biasing the elongate members towards each other in the first and second directions by the translation movement of the biasing member for the length of the aperture, wherein the movement of sliding member from the direction of the distal ends towards the proximal ends facilitates a biasing of the elongate members together and vice-versa, a translation of the biasing member from the direction of the proximal ends to the direction of the distal ends facilitates a biasing of the elongate members away from each other. As noted above, the translation using the biasing member can lock the biased distance of the elongate members in such a position that a biasing pressure is not required to be kept in the opposing first and second directions by a user.

[0032] In a second implementation of the invention there can be provided herein a method of opening a jewelry fastener comprising: providing a jewelry opening device comprising: a first flat elongate member having a proximal end and an opposing distal end, and a substantially perpendicularly angled tip on the proximal end of the first flat elongate member facing in a first direction; a second flat elongate member having a proximal end and an opposing distalApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT end, and an obtusely angled forked tongue tip on the proximal end of the second flat elongate member facing in substantially a second direction, which is substantially opposite to the first direction; a flat sliding longitudinal biasing member which comprises: a flat portion which lies flush with a planar surface of the first or second flat elongate member between the proximal and distal end thereof, and a wrap-around portion which extends perpendicularly from the flat portion and encapsulates sides of the first and second flat elongate members and at least part of the planar surface of an opposing first or second flat elongate member which is not covered by the flat portion, and wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the first and second flat elongate members towards each other in the first and second directions as the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member translates longitudinally in a direction from the distal ends towards the proximal ends of the first and second elongate members and configured to continuously keep at least part of both of the distal ends in flush contact along planar surfaces of the first and second elongate members which are not contacted by the biasing member; attaching the obtusely angled forked tongue tip on the proximal end of the second flat elongate member to a fixed position on a lower end of a jewelry clasp; attaching the substantially perpendicularly angled tip on the proximal end of the first flat elongate member to a lever of the jewelry clasp; translating the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member from the distal ends to towards the proximal ends of the first and second flat elongate members such that the first and second proximal ends of the flat elongate members are biased towards each other in the first and second directions to an extent that the lever is depressed, and the jewelry clasp is opened.

[0033] In one aspect of the invention, the above-noted attaching steps can be reversed in order.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0034] In yet one other aspect after the providing step and prior to the translating step, the method can alternatively encompass the steps of: attaching the substantially perpendicularly angled tip on the proximal end of the first flat elongate member to a fixed position on a lower end of a jewelry clasp; and, attaching the obtusely angled forked tongue tip on the proximal end of the second flat elongate member to a lever of the jewelry clasp; and such steps can be conducted in either order. In another aspect of the invention, the above-noted attaching steps can be reversed in order.

[0035] In yet another aspect of the invention the translation can be accompanied by a squeezing of the elongate members towards each other in the first and second directions.

[0036] In a third implementation of the invention there can be provided herein a set of from two to about 6 different jewelry opening devices of different sizes, wherein each jewelry opening device comprises a first flat elongate member having a proximal end and an opposing distal end, and a substantially perpendicularly angled tip on the proximal end of the first flat elongate member facing in a first direction; a second flat elongate member having a proximal end and an opposing distal end, and an obtusely angled forked tongue tip on the proximal end of the second flat elongate member facing in substantially a second direction, which is substantially opposite to the first direction; a flat sliding longitudinal biasing member which comprises: a flat portion which lies flush with a planar surface of the first or second flat elongate member between the proximal and distal end thereof, and a wrap-around portion which extends perpendicularly from the flat portion and encapsulates sides of the first and second flat elongate members and at least part of the planar surface of an opposing first or second flat elongate member which is not covered by the flat portion, andApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the first and second flat elongate members towards each other in the first and second directions as the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member translates longitudinally in a direction from the distal ends towards the proximal ends of the first and second elongate members, and configured to continuously keep at least part of both of the distal ends in flush contact along planar surfaces of the first and second elongate members which are not contacted by the biasing member.

[0037] In a third implementation, there is provided a jewelry fastener actuating device comprising a first elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end, the first elongate member comprising a first curved tip at its proximal end. The device further comprises a second elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end, the second elongate member comprising a second curved tip at its proximal end. The device further comprises a channel formed in the second elongate member between the proximal end and the distal end of the second elongate member. The device further comprises a biasing member disposed in engagement with the first elongate member and the second elongate member, and being slidable along the channel. The biasing member comprises a bridge portion slidably positioned at least partially in the channel, a post adapted to retain the bridge portion, and consequently the biasing member, in the channel, and a wrap-around element engaging with the first elongate member and the second elongate member. A sliding of the biasing member along the channel in a proximal direction towards the proximal end of the second elongate member causes the first elongate member and the second elongate member to be biased towards each other. A sliding of the biasing member along the channel in a distal direction towards the distal end of the second elongate member causes the first elongate member and the second elongate member to be biased away from each other.

[0038] In some embodiments, each of the first curved tip and the second curved tip may comprise an arc and a tapered portion, wherein the tapered portion of the first curved tip may be formed at an interior surface of the first elongate member, wherein the tapered portion of the second curved tip may be formed at an exterior surface of the second elongate member, and wherein the arc of the second curved tip may have a greater radial depth as compared to the arc of the first curved tip.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0039] In some embodiments, the first elongate member and the second elongate member may be connected at the corresponding distal ends.

[0040] In some embodiments, wherein the first elongate member and the second elongate member may have a default state, and wherein the first elongate member and the second elongate member may be adapted to return to the default state in absence of a biasing force.

[0041] In some embodiments, the channel may comprise a wide portion, a proximal narrow portion extending from the wide portion towards the proximal end of the second elongate member, and a distal narrow portion extending from the wide portion towards the distal end of the second elongate member.

[0042] In some embodiments, a width of the wide portion may be greater than a width of the proximal narrow portion and the distal narrow portion, and wherein a width of the post of the biasing member may be greater than the width of the wide portion.

[0043] In some embodiments, the bridge portion of the biasing member may be freely movable within the channel.

[0044] In some embodiments, the wrap-around element may comprise a perimeter adapted to surround and at least partially contact the first elongate member and the second elongate member, and wherein the sliding of the biasing member along the channel in the proximal and distal direction may cause the wrap-around element to slide over an exterior surface of the second elongate member and an exterior surface of the first elongate member.

[0045] In some embodiments, the sliding of the biasing member in the proximal and distal direction may cause the device to assume one of a central state, a most extended state, a most retracted state, an intermediary state between the central state and the most extended state, and an intermediary state between the central state and the most retracted state.

[0046] In some embodiments, when the device is in the central state: the post may be disposed adjacent the wide portion of the channel, the first curved tip and the second curved tip may beApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT separated by a first distance, and the first elongate member may form a first angle with the second elongate member.

[0047] In some embodiments, when the device assumes the most extended state: the post may be disposed adjacent a first end of the channel, the first curved tip and the second curved tip may overlap relative to each other, and the first elongate member may form a second angle with the second elongate member, the second angle being lesser than the first angle.

[0048] In some embodiments, when the device is in the most retracted state: a second end of the bridge portion may contact a second end of the channel and the post is disposed distal to the wide portion of the channel, the first curved tip and the second curved tip may be separated by a second distance, the second distance being greater than the first distance, and the first elongate member may form a third angle with the second elongate member, the third angle being greater than the first angle and the second angle.

[0049] In some embodiments, sliding the biasing member from the most extended state to the most retracted state may cause a continuous increase in the angle between the first elongate member and the second elongate member and a continuous increase in the distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip, and wherein sliding the biasing member from the most retracted state to the most extended state may cause a continuous decrease in the angle between the first elongate member and the second elongate member and a continuous decrease in the distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip.

[0050] In some embodiments, sliding the biasing member from the most retracted state to the most extended state may cause a continuous increase in a biasing force on the first elongate member and the second elongate member towards each other, and wherein sliding the biasing member from the most extended state to the most retracted state may cause a continuous increase in a biasing force on the first elongate member and the second elongate member away from each other

[0051] In a fourth implementation, there is provided a method of actuating a jewelry fastener. The method comprises providing a jewelry fastener actuating device of the third implementation. The method further comprises attaching the first curved tip on a lever of the jewelry fastener. TheApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT method further comprises attaching the second curved tip on a part of a main portion of the jewelry fastener. The method further comprises translating the biasing member in the proximal direction to cause the first and second elongate members to be biased towards each other and to cause a continual decrease in a distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip to an extent that the lever is depressed and the jewelry fastener is opened. The method further comprises translating the biasing member in the distal direction to cause the first and second elongate members to be biased away from each other and to cause a continual increase in a distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip to an extent that the lever is compressed and the jewelry fastener is closed.

[0052] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the attached drawings and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, which follow. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0053] The preferred embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings provided to illustrate and not to limit the invention, where like designations denote like elements, and in which:

[0054] FIG.1 illustrates a lower view of the jewelry opening device of the present invention;

[0055] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the jewelry opening device of FIG. 1 of the present invention;

[0056] FIG.3 illustrates a top perspective view of the jewelry opening device of FIG.1 in its most open position;

[0057] FIG.4 illustrates the jewelry opening device of FIG. 3 attached to a jewelry fastener prior to the jewelry fastener being opened with the jewelry opening device;

[0058] FIG.5 illustrates a top perspective view of the jewelry opening device of FIG.1 in its most closed position;Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0059] FIG.6 illustrates the jewelry opening device of FIG. 5 attached to a jewelry fastener after the jewelry fastener is opened with the jewelry opening device;

[0060] FIG.7 illustrates the jewelry opening device of FIG. 1 attached to a jewelry fastener after the jewelry fastener is opened with the jewelry opening device;

[0061] FIG.8A illustrates a perspective view of a jewelry fastener actuating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0062] FIG.8B illustrates an exploded view of the jewelry fastener actuating device of FIG. 8A;

[0063] FIG.9A illustrates a perspective view of a first elongate member and a second elongate member of the jewelry fastener actuating device;

[0064] FIG. 9B illustrates a side view of the first elongate member and the second elongate member of the jewelry fastener actuating device;

[0065] FIG.9C illustrates a rear perspective view of the first elongate member and the second elongate member of the jewelry fastener actuating device;

[0066] FIG.9D illustrates a front perspective view of the first elongate member and the second elongate member of the jewelry fastener actuating device;

[0067] FIG. 10A depicts a perspective view of a biasing member of the jewelry fastener actuating device;

[0068] FIG.10B depicts a side view of the biasing member of the jewelry fastener actuating device;

[0069] FIG. 11A illustrates a perspective view of the jewelry fastener actuating device in a central state;

[0070] FIG. 11B illustrates a perspective view of the jewelry fastener actuating device in a most extended state; andApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0071] FIG. 11C illustrates a perspective view of the jewelry fastener actuating device in a most retracted state.

[0072] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. Detailed Description

[0073] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0074] Referring initially to FIGS.1-7, there is provided a jewelry opening device 100 which contains a first flat elongate member 102 having a proximal end 104 and an opposing distal end 106 and substantially perpendicularly angled tip 108 on the proximal end 104 of the first flat elongate member 102 facing in a first direction see arrow 110. The second flat elongate member 112 has a proximal end 114 and an opposing distal end 116 and an obtusely angled forked tongue tip 118 on the proximal end 114 of the second flat elongate member 112 facing in substantially a second direction, see arrow 120, which is in substantially opposite the first direction 110.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0075] Still referring to FIGS.1-7, there is provided a flat sliding longitudinal biasing member 122 which contains a flat portion 124 which lies in plane over a planar surface 126 of the second flat elongate member 112 between the proximal 114 and distal end 116 thereof, and a wrap-around portion 128 which extends perpendicularly from the flat portion 124 and encapsulates sides 130 of the first 102 and second 112 flat elongate members and at least part of the planar surface 132 of an opposing first elongate member 102 which is not overlaid by the flat portion 124.

[0076] Still referring to FIGS.1-7, the biasing member 122 is configured to bias the first 102 and second 112 flat elongate members towards each other in the first 110 and second 120 directions as the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member 122 translates longitudinally in a direction 134 from the distal ends 106 / 116 towards the proximal ends 104 / 114 of the first 102 and second 112 elongate members, and configured to continuously keep at least part of both of the distal ends 106 / 116 in flush contact along planar surfaces 132 / 126 of the first 102 and second 112 elongate members which are not contacted by the biasing member 122.

[0077] The first flat elongate member 102 and the second flat elongate member 112 are longitudinally 134 and / or laterally 136 aligned with each other. The first flat elongate member 102 and the second flat elongate member 112 each have a thickness 138 and the first flat elongate member can have a grooved gripping area 140 along at least portion of the planar surface 132. The first 102 and / or second 112 flat elongate members each have a length 142 and can have widths 144 from the distal end 106 / 116 to a border of the tips 108 / 118 of the proximal ends 104 / 114.

[0078] The substantially perpendicularly angled tip 108 of the first flat elongate member 102 has an angle 146 between the planar surface 126 of the first flat elongate member 102 and the planar surface of the first flat elongate member. The proximal 104 / 114 and distal ends 106 / 116 of the elongate members 102 / 112 are opposite longitudinal ends thereof. In addition, there is provided an obtuse angle 148 of the obtusely angled forked tongue tip 118.

[0079] The flat sliding longitudinal biasing member 122 can have a length less than that of the elongate members 102 / 112 and a uniform width or a tapered width which corresponds to the width 144 of the elongate members 102 / 112 described herein and can further comprise an elevated gripping element 150 on the planar surface 126 of the flat portion 124, and preferably the elevatedApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT gripping element 150 can wrap around the flat portion 124 of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing 122 member in part or entirely. The flat sliding longitudinal biasing member 122 can have a stadium shaped aperture 152 along the flat portion 124 and a post 152 which is oriented perpendicular to the flat portion 124 of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member 122, and which can pass through the aperture 152 and make contact with the underlying second elongate member 112. The stadium-shaped aperture 152 can be located between the elevated gripping element 150 and the wrap around portion 128 of the biasing member 122, can be centrally located along the width of the flat portion 124 and can have a length less than the length of the biasing member 122.

[0080] In one embodiment herein the plane of the flat portion 124 can be flush with the plane 132 / 126 of the underlying first or second elongate members 102 / 112, alternatively, the plane of the flat portion 124 can be such that it descends in a slight angle 156 in relation to the plane of the underlying elongate member 112 from an elevated gripping element end 158 towards the opposing end 160 of the flat portion 124, i.e., the portion contiguous the wrap-around portion 128 of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member 122. The entire flat sliding longitudinal biasing member 122 can be moved along the elongate member 112, i.e., translated to the extent that the post 154 is able to be retained in the stadium shaped aperture 152 along the length thereof. Thus, the translation can be limited to the length of the aperture 152.

[0081] The encapsulation of the sides 130 by the wrap around portion 128 can make contact with the sides 130 of the first and second elongate members 102 / 112 and either partially or completely cover and / or make contact with the planar surface 132 of the opposing first elongate member 102 which is not covered by the flat portion 124. The contact made with the underlying elongate member 112 can impart a displacement of the elongate member 112 and the flat portion 124 of the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member 122 away from each other to a small amount, i.e., the slight angle 156, and this feature can contribute to and / or be enhanced in terms of biasing the elongate members 102 / 112 towards each other in the first 110 and second 120 directions by the longitudinal translation 134 movement of the biasing member 122 for the length of the aperture 150, wherein the movement of sliding biasing member 122 from the direction of the distal end 116 towards the proximal end 114 facilitates a biasing of the elongate members 102 / 112 together and vice-versa, a translation of the biasing member 122 from the direction of the proximal end 114 toApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT the direction of the distal end 116 facilitates a biasing of the elongate members 102 / 112 away from each other. As shown in FIG.7, the translation using the biasing member 122 can lock the biased distance of the elongate members 102 / 112 in such a position that a biasing pressure is not required to be kept in the opposing first and second directions by a user.

[0082] There is also provided a method of opening a jewelry fastener comprising providing a jewelry opening device 100 as described herein; and as shown in FIG. 4 attaching the obtusely angled forked tongue tip 118 on the proximal end 114 of the second flat elongate member 112 to a fixed position 160 on a lower end of a jewelry clasp 162; attaching the substantially perpendicularly angled tip 108 on the proximal end 104 of the first flat elongate member 102 to a lever 164 of the jewelry clasp 162; translating the flat sliding longitudinal biasing member 122 from the distal end 116 towards the proximal end 114 of the second flat elongate member 112 such that the first and second proximal ends 104 / 114 of the flat elongate members 102 / 112 are biased towards each other in the first 110 and second 120 directions to an extent that the lever 164 is depressed, as shown in FIG.6, and the jewelry clasp 162 is opened.

[0083] In an alternative the device described herein can be opened by pushing the biasing component towards the proximal ends of the device. The device herein is such that the elongate members do not fit inside each other, and / or there is no spring involved in the biasing of the elongate members. When the elongate members are fully biased towards each other they can be such that they are not able to support a charm body therein in part or in whole. In the present invention, the device can be such that it can avoid touching a connecting component of a piece of jewelry and only be employed in contacting the fastener portion of the piece of jewelry. In another embodiment, the opening point of the device can be at the proximal ends of the device. In yet another embodiment the opening point of the device can be from 60% to 99%, preferably from 80% to 99% and most preferably from 90% to 99% of the holding point. The opening point of the device herein can be not small enough to split open a charm. The biasing component of the present device can be used to bias the elongate members together and not to keep them apart. The tips of the present invention can have an inwardly facing shape. The present device can be in the absence of wires, and in the absence of rigid wires. In one non-limiting embodiment, the device of the present invention can be longer than 1.6 inches, preferably greater than any one of 2 inches, 3Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT inches, 3.5 inches and 4 inches. The present device can be configured to open a fastener component by sliding and / or squeezing both elongate members towards each other and not by lifting one end relative to the other. The device of the present invention can be in the absence of a joint.

[0084] Another embodiment of a device for opening, or actuating, a jewelry fastener will now be described.

[0085] FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of a jewelry fastener actuating device 200, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG.8B illustrates an exploded view of the device 200, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] The device 200 may be adapted to actuate a jewelry fastener, such as the jewelry clasp 162 describe above. The device 200 may further be adapted to open, retain open, and close the jewelry fastener.

[0087] As is understood, jewelry fastener (clasp) generally comprising a lever and a main portion, the lever being configured to be actuated to allow access to the main portion. That is, when the lever is closed, access to the main portion is restricted and when the lever is opened, access to the main portion is allowed. In other words, when the lever is in the closed position, it securely restricts access to the main portion, ensuring the fastener remains locked. Conversely, when the lever is opened, access to the main portion is allowed for attachment or removal of a jewelry piece. The main portion may be in the form of a hook or loop and the lever may be associated with a movable arm. The lever may be configured to selectively move the arm over or into the hook / loop to lock the fastener, or away from the hook / loop to unlock the fastener.

[0088] The device 200 may comprise a first elongate member 210 and a second elongate member 220. The device 200 may further comprise a biasing member 240 in engagement with the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220.

[0089] The biasing member 240 may be slidable in relation to the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220. The sliding of the biasing member 240 may cause the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to be biased towards and away from each other. In use, the device 200 may be arranged to hold a jewelry fastener, such as clasp 162. When the biasing member 240 is displaced slidingly to bias the first elongate member 210 and theApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT second elongate member 220 towards each other, the device 200 may open the jewelry fastener. When the biasing member 240 is displaced slidingly to bias the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 away each other, the device 200 may close the jewelry fastener.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 9A and 9B, the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 are depicted. FIG.9A illustrates a perspective view of the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220. FIG.9B illustrates a side view of the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220.

[0091] The first elongate member 210 may comprise a proximal end 211, a distal end 212, and an intermediate portion 213 extending between the proximal end 211 and the distal end 212. The first elongate member 210 may further comprise an interior surface 214 and an exterior surface 215. The interior surface 214 and the exterior surface 215 may be planar surfaces. In an embodiment, the exterior surface 215 of the first elongate member 210 may comprise a grooved region 216 having a plurality of grooves or a plurality of protrusions formed thereon along at least some part of the intermediate portion 213. The grooved region 216 may define a gripping area for a user of the device 200.

[0092] The second elongate member 220 may comprise a proximal end 221, a distal end 222, and an intermediate portion 223 extending between the proximal end 221 and the distal end 222. The second elongate member 220 may further comprise an interior surface 224 and an exterior surface 225. The interior surface 224 and the exterior surface 225 may be planar surfaces. In an embodiment, a distance between the proximal end 221 and the distal end 222 of the second elongate member 220 may be about 95mm, such as 95.06mm.

[0093] In an embodiment, the first and second elongate members may be made of a metal material, such as, but not limited to, aluminum, steel, stainless steel, low carbon austenitic steel, chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the first and second elongate members may be made of low carbon austenitic steel which contains chromium and has nickel and molybdenum as additional alloying elements

[0094] The first elongate member 210 may comprise a first curved tip 217 at its proximal end 211. In an embodiment, the first curved tip 217 may be angled towards the second elongate member 220. In an embodiment, the first curved tip 217 may form an angle A1 with a longitudinalApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT axis L1 of the intermediate portion 213 of the first elongate member 210. In an embodiment, the first curved tip 217 may be substantially perpendicularly angled.

[0095] The second elongate member 220 may comprise a second curved tip 227 at its proximal end 221. In an embodiment, the second curved tip 227 may be angled towards the first elongate member 210. In an embodiment, the second curved tip 227 may form an angle A2 with a longitudinal axis L2 of the intermediate portion 223 of the second elongate member 220. In an embodiment, the second curved tip 227 may be substantially perpendicularly angled.

[0096] Referring additionally to FIG. 9C-9D, the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 is more clearly depicted. FIG. 9C illustrates a rear perspective view of the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 while FIG. 9D illustrates a front perspective view of the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220.

[0097] The first curved tip 217 may comprise an arc 218 for facilitating holding of a part of the jewelry fastener. For instance, the lever of the jewelry fastener may be held via the arc 218. The arc 218 may define an indented portion of the first elongate member 210 at its proximal end 211. The first curved tip 217 may further comprise a tapered portion 219. As depicted in FIG.9C, the tapered portion 219 is formed in the interior surface 214 of the first elongate member 210 adjacent the arc 218. The tapered portion 219 may enable convenient holding of a part of the jewelry fastener, such as the lever, as well as may facilitate convenient actuation of the lever.

[0098] The second curved tip 227 may comprise an arc 228 for facilitating holding of another part of the jewelry fastener. For instance, the main portion of the jewelry fastener may be held via the arc 228. The arc 228 may define an indented portion of the second elongate member 220 at its proximal end 211. The second curved tip 227 may further comprise a tapered portion 229. As depicted in FIG. 9D, the tapered portion 229 is formed in the exterior surface 225 of the second elongate member 220 adjacent the arc 228. The tapered portion 219 may enable convenient holding of a part of the jewelry fastener, such as an end of the main portion of the jewelry fastener.

[0099] Further, as depicted, the arc 228 of the second curved tip 227 may be deeper than the arc 218 of the first curved tip 217. In an embodiment, the arc 228 may define a part of an ellipse while the arc 218 may define a part of a circle. In an embodiment, the arc 228 may have a greater radial depth as compared to the arc 218, the radial depth defining a distance from an outer edge ofApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT the corresponding arc to a deepest point of the corresponding concave profile. In an embodiment, the arc 228 may have a deeper recess and / or a greater concavity as compared to the arc 218, wherein the concavity refers to a curvature of the corresponding arcs.

[0100] The distal end 212 of the first elongate member 210 may be connected to the distal end 222 of the second elongate member 220. In an embodiment, the distal ends 212, 222 may be fixedly connected to each other. The intermediate portion 213 of the first elongate member 210 may extend from the distal end 212 while the intermediate portion 223 may extend from the distal end 222. In an embodiment, the intermediate portion 213 of the first elongate member 210 may be angled from the intermediate portion 223 of the second elongate member 220.

[0101] In an embodiment, the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 may have a default state as depicted in FIGS. 9A-9D defined by a default angle and a default distance. The intermediate portion 213 may define an angle AD with the intermediate portion 223. The angle AD may be referred to as the default angle, in that, the default angel is an angle when no biasing force is applied to the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220. In an embodiment, the first curved tip 217 may be spaced from the second curved tip 227 by the default distance DD. The default distance DD may refer to the distance between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 when no biasing force is applied to the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220. For instance, in absence of the biasing member 240 engaging with the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220, the intermediate portion 213 defines the default angle AD with the intermediate portion 223 while the distance between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 is the default distance DD.

[0102] In an embodiment, the distal ends 212, 222 are connected to each other such that when a biasing force applied to the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220, is reduced or removed, the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 tend to return to their default state defined by the default angle AD and the default distance DD.

[0103] The device 200 may further comprise a channel 230. In the illustrated embodiments, the channel 230 is depicted as being formed in the second elongate member 220. The details of the present invention will be described with reference to the channel 230 being formed in the second elongate member 220, however, it is appreciated that the channel 230 may alternatively be formedApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT in the first elongate member 210 without departing from the scope of the invention and the same details will be applicable in such a scenario.

[0104] The channel 230 may define a slot formed in the second elongate member 220. The channel 230 may define a slot formed through the exterior surface 225 and the interior surface 224 of the second elongate member 220. The channel 230 may thus be considered as a hollow channel between the exterior surface 225 and the interior surface 224 of the second elongate member 220.

[0105] The channel 230 may comprise a wide portion 231, a proximal narrow portion 232 extending from the wide portion 231 towards the proximal end 221, and a distal narrow portion 233 extending from the wide portion 231 towards the distal end 222. The channel 230 may be provided between the proximal end 221 and the distal end 222 of the second elongate member 220. The wide portion 231 may have a circular configuration while the proximal and distal narrow portions 232, 233 may have elongated configurations. In an embodiment, the wide portion may have a width W1 greater than a width W2 of the proximal and distal narrow portions 232, 233. In an embodiment, the width W1 may be about 4mm, such as 4.36mm. In an embodiment, the width W2 may be about 2mm, such as 2.40mm.

[0106] The channel 230 may be configured to receive a part of the biasing member 240 via the wide portion 231. The channel 230 may receive the biasing member 240 during assembly of the device 200, such as prior to selling of the device 200 to customers. In an embodiment, a part of the biasing member 240 may be snap-fitted into the channel 230. Once the biasing member 240 is engaged with the channel 230, the channel 230 retains the biasing member 240 and prevents disengagement of the biasing member 240, while allowing the biasing member 240 to slide along the channel 230.

[0107] The channel 230 may comprise a first end 235 and a second end 236. The channel 230 may extend between the first end 235 and the second end 236. The first end 235 may be an end of the proximal narrow portion 232 while the second end 236 may be an end of the distal narrow portion 233. When the biasing member 240 is engaged with the channel 230, the biasing member 240 may be slidable between the first end 235 and the second end 236 of the channel 230. As will be described below, the sliding of the biasing member 240 along the channel 230 causes biasing of the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 towards and away fromApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT each other. In an embodiment, a distance between the first end 235 of the channel 230 and the second end 236 of the channel 230 may be about 37 mm, such as 37.88mm.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 8A-8B and 10A-10B, the device 200 may comprise a biasing member 240. FIG. 10A depicts a perspective view of the biasing member 240 while FIG. 10B illustrates a side view of the biasing member 240.

[0109] The biasing member 240 may be disposed in engagement with the channel 230 and may be slidable along the channel 230 in a proximal direction towards the proximal end 221 and a distal direction towards the distal end 222 of the second elongate member 220. The sliding of the biasing member 240 in the proximal direction may cause the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to be biased towards each other. The sliding of the biasing member 240 in the distal direction may cause the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to be biased away from each other since the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 tend to achieve their default state.

[0110] The biasing member 240 may comprise a gripping element 241, a wrap-around element 242, and a plate 243 connecting the gripping element 241 with the wrap-around element 242. The gripping element 241 may be an elevated element protruding from an end of the plate 243. In an embodiment, the gripping element 241 may be a dome-shaped element. In an embodiment, the gripping element 241 may comprise a grooved surface so as to enable a user to actuate and slide the biasing member 240 by gripping, pushing, or otherwise applying a force on the gripping element 241. In an embodiment, the gripping element 241 may be made of an elastomeric material, such as, but not limited to natural rubber, synthetic rubber, ethylene rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, EPDM rubber, polyisoprene rubber, butyl rubber, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, silicone rubber, polyurethane, cork, and combinations thereof.

[0111] The wrap-around element 242 may be a ring-shaped element having a circumferential perimeter 244 and an aperture 245. In the illustrated embodiment, the wrap-around element is depicted as having a rectangular configuration however other shaped configurations may be employed. The wrap-around element 242 may be configured to engage with the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220. During assembly, the wrap-around element 242 may be configured to receive the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate memberApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT 220 via the aperture 245. The perimeter 244 of the wrap-around element 242 may enclose the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220, as depicted in FIG.8A.

[0112] In an embodiment, the perimeter 244 may surround and be in contact with the exterior surface 225 of the second elongate member 220 and the exterior surface 215 of the first elongate member 210. In an embodiment, the sliding of the biasing member along the channel in the proximal and distal direction causes the wrap-around element 242, in particular the perimeter 244, to slide over the exterior surface 225 of the second elongate member 220 and the exterior surface 215 of the first elongate member 210, thereby biasing the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 towards and away from each other.

[0113] The biasing member 240 may comprise a bridge portion 246 extending downwardly from the plate 243 and / or the gripping element 241. The bridge portion 246 may be provided as an elongated protrusion on the plate 243 and / or the gripping element 241. In an embodiment, the gripping element 241 may be formed on the plate 243, and the bridge portion 246 may then be a protrusion on a lower surface of the plate 243. The bridge portion 246 may be configured to be positioned at least partially through the channel 230 and the bridge portion 246 may be slidable along and / or within the channel 230.

[0114] In an embodiment, the bridge portion 246 may have a width less than the width W1 of the wide portion 231 of the channel 230 as well as the width W2 of the proximal and distal narrow portions 232, 233 of the channel 230. The bridge portion 246 may thus be freely slidable along the channel 230, in particular, within the wide portion 231 and the proximal and distal narrow portions 232, 233 of the channel 230. The bridge portion 246 may comprise a first end 247 and a second end 248. The sliding of the bridge portion 246 within the channel 230 is limited by the first end 247 and the second end 248, in that, the bridge portion 246 may slide in the proximal direction till the first end 247 thereof contacts the first end 235 of the channel 230 and the bridge portion 246 may slide in the distal direction till the second end 248 thereof contacts the second end 236 of the channel 230.

[0115] The biasing member 240 may comprise a post 249 extending from the bridge portion 246. In an embodiment, the post 249 may extend downwardly from adjacent or at the first end 247 of the bridge portion 246. The post 249 may be adapted to retain the bridge portion 246, andApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT consequently the biasing member 240, in engagement with the channel 230. The post 249 may have a radius greater that the width W1 of the wide portion 231 of the channel 230 as well as the width W2 of the proximal and distal narrow portions 232, 233 of the channel 230. Accordingly, by virtue of the plate 243 and the gripping element 241 on one side of the bridge member 246 and the post 249 on the opposite side of the bridge member 246, the bridge member 246 is retained within the channel 230 and slides along the channel 230 without the risk of disengagement.

[0116] In an embodiment, during assembly the post 249 may be snap-fitted through the wide portion 231 of the channel 230. A pressing force may be required for the snap-fitting since the post 249 has a greater radius than the width W1 of the wide portion 231, for instance, about 3-5% greater. Although the post 249 is depicted as a circular element, it is appreciated that the post 249, and the wide portion 231 as well, may take any other shaped configuration.

[0117] In an embodiment, the post 249 may be fixedly connected to or integrally formed with the bridge portion 246. In an embodiment, the bridge portion 246 may be fixedly connected to or integrally formed with the plate 243. In an embodiment, the gripping element 241 and the wrap- around element 242 may be fixedly connected to or integrally formed with the plate 243.

[0118] Referring to FIGS.11A-11C, the sliding of the biasing member 240 and various states of the device 200 will be described. FIG.11A illustrates a perspective view of the device 200 in a central state. FIG.11B illustrates a perspective view of the device 200 in a most extended state. FIG.11C illustrates a perspective view of the device 200 in a most retracted state.

[0119] In the central state as depicted in FIG.11A, the post 249 may be disposed at the wide portion 231 of the channel 230. The biasing member 240 may be retained in engagement with the channel by virtue of the radius of the post 249. At the central state, the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 may be separated by a first distance D1 while the intermediate portion 213 may define a first angle A3 with the intermediate portion 223. The first distance D1 may be lesser than the default distance DD while the first angle A3 may be lesser than the default angle AD. This is because when the biasing member 240 engages the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220, the wrap-around element 242 causes the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to be biased towards each other to some extent as compared to whenApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 are in the default state (i.e., free of the biasing member).

[0120] As the biasing member 240 is slid in the proximal direction (shown by arrow XP) towards the proximal end 221 of the second elongate member, the post 249 and the bridge portion 246 are displaced towards the first end 235 of the channel 230 along the proximal narrow portion 232. The biasing member 240 can be slid in the proximal direction along the proximal narrow portion 232 till the first end 247 of the bridge portion 246 and / or the post 249 contacts the first end 235 of the channel 230. In the most extended state as depicted in FIG.11B, the post 249 and / or the first end 247 of the bridge portion 246 may be disposed at the first end 235 of the channel 230. As a result of the displacement of the biasing member 240 in the proximal direction, the wrap- around element 242 is also displaced over the exterior surface 215 of the first elongate member 210 and the exterior surface 225 of the second elongate member 220. As the wrap-around element 242 has a rigid perimeter 244 with a fixed dimension of the aperture 245, the sliding of the wrap- around element 242 in the proximal direction causes the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to be biased further towards each other. In the most extended state, the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 may overlap relative to each other while the intermediate portion 213 may define a second angle A4 with the intermediate portion 223. The overlap of the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 means that the distance therebetween is lesser than the first distance D1 while the second angle A4 may be lesser than the first angle A3.

[0121] As the biasing member 240 is slid in the proximal direction, from the position when the post 249 is at (below or adjacent) the wide portion 231 towards the position when the post 249 is at (below or adjacent) the first end 235 of the channel 230, the device 200 continues to transition from the central state to the most extended state with multiple intermediary states therebetween. As the device 200 continues to transition from the central state to the most extended state, the biasing member 240 continues to apply a continually increasing biasing force to the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 so as to cause the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to be biased towards each other at a continually increasing extent till the angle there-between reaches the second angle A4 and till the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 overlap. The biasing member 240 may be positioned at any intermediaryApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT state between the central state to the most extended state and at any such state, a distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip would be lesser as compared to the distance when the device is at the central state, but greater as compared to the distance when the device is at the most extended state (which can be considered as negative distance due to overlapping). Similarly, at any intermediary state between the central state to the most extended state, the angle between the first elongate member and the second elongate member would be lesser as compared to the angle when the device is at the central state, but greater as compared to the distance when the device is at the most extended state. Thus, displacing the biasing member from the central state to the most extended state causes a continuous reduction in the angle between the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 and a continuous reduction in the distance between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227.

[0122] It is appreciated that although the first curved tip and the second curved tip are described as overlapping in the most extended state of the device, the first curved tip and the second curved tip may achieve overlapping prior to the device reaching the most extended state, i.e., at an intermediary state between the central state and the most extended state. It is appreciated that an extent of overlapping may be greatest in the most extended state.

[0123] From the central state, as the biasing member 240 is slid in the distal direction (shown by arrow XD) towards the distal end 222 of the second elongate member 220, the post 249 and the bridge portion 246 are displaced towards the second end 236 of the channel 230 along the distal narrow portion 233. The biasing member 240 can be slid in the distal direction along the distal narrow portion 233 till the second end 248 of the bridge portion 246 contacts the second end 236 of the channel 230. In the most retracted state as depicted in FIG.11C, the second end 248 of the bridge portion 246 may be disposed at the second end 236 of the channel 230 while the post 249 is positioned distally to the wide portion 231 and at the distal narrow portion 233. As a result of the displacement of the biasing member 240 in the distal direction, the wrap-around element 242 is also displaced over the exterior surface 215 of the first elongate member 210 and the exterior surface 225 of the second elongate member 220. The sliding of the wrap-around element 242 in the distal direction causes the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to be biased away from each other since the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 naturally tend to return to their default state. Displacement of the wrap-aroundApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT element 242 in the distal direction causes a reduction in the biasing force applied by the wrap- around element 242 on the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220, which allows the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to return towards their default state. In the most retracted state, the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 may be spaced by a second distance D2 while the intermediate portion 213 may define a third angle A5 with the intermediate portion 223. The second distance D2 is greater than the first distance D1 while the third angle A5 is greater than the second angle A4 as well as the first angle A3.

[0124] As the biasing member 240 is slid in the distal direction, from the position when the post 249 is at (below or adjacent) the wide portion 231 towards the position when the second end 248 of the bridge portion 246 is at the second end 236 of the channel 230, the device 200 continues to transition from the central state to the most retracted state with multiple intermediary states therebetween. As the device 200 continues to transition from the central state to the most retracted state, the biasing force applied by the biasing member 240 to the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 continually reduces to so as to cause the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to continue biasing towards their default state at a continually increasing extent till the angle there-between reaches the third angle A5 and till the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 are spaced by the second distance D2. The biasing member 240 may be positioned at any intermediary state between the central state to the most retracted state and at any such state, a distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip would be greater as compared to the distance when the device is at the central state as well as when the device is at the most extended state, but lesser as compared to the distance when the device is at the most retracted state. Similarly, at any intermediary state between the central state to the most retracted state, the angle between the first elongate member and the second elongate member would be greater as compared to the angle when the device is at the central state as well as when the device is at the most extended state, but lesser as compared to the distance when the device is at the most retracted state. Thus, displacing the biasing member from the central state to the most retracted state causes a continuous increase in the angle between the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 and a continuous increase in the distance between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0125] In an embodiment, the second distance D2 between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 when the device is at the most retracted state may be same as the default distance DD. Further, the third angle A5 between the intermediate portion 213 and the intermediate portion 223 when the device is at the most retracted state may be same as the default angle AD. That is, the most retracted state of the device 200 may have the first elongate member and the second elongate member in their default state.

[0126] As would be understood, when the device 200 is transitioned from the most retracted state to the most extended state, there will be a continuous increase in the angle between the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 and a continuous increase in the distance between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227. Similarly, when the device 200 is transitioned from the most extended state to the most retracted state, there will be a continuous decrease in the angle between the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 and a continuous decrease in the distance between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227.

[0127] In use, the device 200 may be used by a user to actuate a jewelry fastener, such as to open, to retain open, and close the jewelry fastener. The jewelry fastener may comprise a lever with an arm such that actuation of the lever opens and closes the jewelry fastener. For instance, the arm may allow or prevent access to a main portion of the jewelry fastener.

[0128] The user may position the device 200 to hold the lever of the jewelry fastener by the first curved tip 217 and a part of the main portion by the second curved tip 227. The part of the main portion may be, for instance, an end of the main portion such as that described with reference to the clasp 162 as the jewelry fastener in the previous embodiment.

[0129] Initially, the device 200 may be at the central state, the most retracted state, any intermediary state between the central state and the most retracted state, or any intermediary state between the central state and the most extended state. The device 200 may be at such a state where the first curved tip 217 can hold the lever while the second curved tip 227 is sufficiently distanced from the first curved tip 217 so as to hold the part of the main portion.

[0130] For the present example, the device 200 may be initially at the central state. The biasing member 240 may be slid towards the proximal direction, i.e., the bridge portion 246 may be slidApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT in the proximal narrow portion 232 towards the second end 236 of the channel 230. The user may apply a sliding force via the gripping element 241 for translating the biasing member in the proximal direction. The translation of the biasing member 240 in the proximal direction may cause the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to be biased towards each other, wherein the distance between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 may continually reduce. Since the first curved tip 217 holds the lever of the jewelry fastener, the reduction in distance between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 causes the lever to be actuated to an open position in which the arm allows access to the main portion. The user may continue translating the biasing member 240 till the device 200 reaches the most extended state. The overlapping of the curved tips provides a strong hold to retain the fastener open. Alternative, the user may translate the biasing member 240 to shift the device 200 to any intermediary position between the central state and the most extended state such that the lever is sufficiently actuated as per the requirements.

[0131] With the lever actuated, the user may place a part of jewelry in the jewelry fastener. Thereafter, the biasing member 240 may be slid in the distal direction, i.e., the bridge portion 246 may be slid towards the wide portion 231 and / or the first end 235 of the channel 230. The translation of the biasing member 240 in the distal direction may cause the first elongate member 210 and the second elongate member 220 to be biased away each other towards their default state, wherein the distance between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 may continually increase. Since the first curved tip 217 holds the lever of the jewelry fastener, the increase in distance between the first curved tip 217 and the second curved tip 227 causes the lever to be actuated to a closed position in which the arm prevents access to the main portion. The jewelry is thus locked with the jewelry fastener.

[0132] The biasing member 240 may be slid in the distal direction till the lever is actuated to be in the closed position. For instance, the biasing member 240 may be slid till the device 200 reaches the central state, the most retracted state, any intermediary state between the central state and the most retracted state, or even any intermediary state between the central state and the most extended state depending on the type, shape, and size of the jewelry fastener.

[0133] The device 200 may similarly be used to unlock the jewelry from the jewelry fastener.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT

[0134] Accordingly, there is provided a method of actuating a jewelry fastener comprising providing a jewelry opening device 200 as described herein, attaching the first curved tip on a lever of the jewelry fastener, attaching the second curved tip on a part of a main portion of the jewelry fastener; translating the biasing member in the proximal direction to cause the first and second elongate members to be biased towards each other and to cause a continual decrease in a distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip to an extent that the lever is depressed and the jewelry fastener is opened; and translating the biasing member in the distal direction to cause the first and second elongate members to be biased away from each other and to cause a continual increase in a distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip to an extent that the lever is compressed and the jewelry fastener is closed.

[0135] It is appreciated that one or more details regarding the device 100 may be applicable for the device 200 as well.

[0136] Accordingly, a device is provided which allows conveniently actuating a jewelry fastener to lock or unlock a jewelry from the jewelry fastener. The device is easy and convenient to use. The overlapping of the curved tips provides a strong grip on the jewelry fastener. Further, the variable distances between the curved tips between the most extended state and the most retracted state allows the device to be used with all types, shapes, and sizes of jewelry fasteners.

[0137] Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Furthermore, it is understood that any of the features presented in the embodiments may be integrated into any of the other embodiments unless explicitly stated otherwise. The scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT What is claimed is:

1. A jewelry fastener actuating device comprising: a first elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end, the first elongate member comprising a first curved tip at its proximal end; a second elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end, the second elongate member comprising a second curved tip at its proximal end; a channel formed in the second elongate member between the proximal end and the distal end of the second elongate member; and a biasing member disposed in engagement with the first elongate member and the second elongate member, and being slidable along the channel, the biasing member comprising: a bridge portion slidably positioned at least partially in the channel, a post adapted to retain the bridge portion, and consequently the biasing member, in the channel, and a wrap-around element engaging with the first elongate member and the second elongate member, wherein a sliding of the biasing member along the channel in a proximal direction towards the proximal end of the second elongate member causes the first elongate member and the second elongate member to be biased towards each other, and wherein a sliding of the biasing member along the channel in a distal direction towards the distal end of the second elongate member causes the first elongate member and the second elongate member to be biased away from each other.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein each of the first curved tip and the second curved tip comprises an arc and a tapered portion, wherein the tapered portion of the first curved tip is formed at an interior surface of the first elongate member, wherein the tapered portion of the second curved tip is formed at an exterior surface of the second elongate member, and wherein theApplicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT arc of the second curved tip has a greater radial depth as compared to the arc of the first curved tip.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first elongate member and the second elongate member are connected at the corresponding distal ends.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first elongate member and the second elongate member have a default state, and wherein the first elongate member and the second elongate member are adapted to return to the default state in absence of a biasing force.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the channel comprises a wide portion, a proximal narrow portion extending from the wide portion towards the proximal end of the second elongate member, and a distal narrow portion extending from the wide portion towards the distal end of the second elongate member.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein a width of the wide portion is greater than a width of the proximal narrow portion and the distal narrow portion, and wherein a width of the post of the biasing member is greater than the width of the wide portion.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the bridge portion of the biasing member is freely movable within the channel.

8. The device according to claim 1, wherein the wrap-around element comprises a perimeter adapted to surround and at least partially contact the first elongate member and the second elongate member, and wherein the sliding of the biasing member along the channel in the proximal and distal direction causes the wrap-around element to slide over an exterior surface of the second elongate member and an exterior surface of the first elongate member.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT 9. The device according to claim 1, wherein the sliding of the biasing member in the proximal and distal direction causes the device to assume one of a central state, a most extended state, a most retracted state, an intermediary state between the central state and the most extended state, and an intermediary state between the central state and the most retracted state.

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein when the device is in the central state: the post is disposed adjacent the wide portion of the channel, the first curved tip and the second curved tip are separated by a first distance, and the first elongate member forms a first angle with the second elongate member.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein when the device assumes the most extended state: the post is disposed adjacent a first end of the channel, the first curved tip and the second curved tip overlap relative to each other, and the first elongate member forms a second angle with the second elongate member, the second angle being lesser than the first angle.

12. The device according to claim 11, wherein when the device is in the most retracted state: a second end of the bridge portion contacts a second end of the channel and the post is disposed distal to the wide portion of the channel, the first curved tip and the second curved tip are separated by a second distance, the second distance being greater than the first distance, and the first elongate member forms a third angle with the second elongate member, the third angle being greater than the first angle and the second angle.Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT 13. The device according to claim 9, wherein sliding the biasing member from the most extended state to the most retracted state causes a continuous increase in the angle between the first elongate member and the second elongate member and a continuous increase in the distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip, and wherein sliding the biasing member from the most retracted state to the most extended state causes a continuous decrease in the angle between the first elongate member and the second elongate member and a continuous decrease in the distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip.

14. The device according to claim 9, wherein sliding the biasing member from the most retracted state to the most extended state causes a continuous increase in a biasing force on the first elongate member and the second elongate member towards each other, and wherein sliding the biasing member from the most extended state to the most retracted state causes a continuous increase in a biasing force on the first elongate member and the second elongate member away from each other.

15. A method of actuating a jewelry fastener comprising: providing a jewelry fastener actuating device comprising: a first elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end, the first elongate member comprising a first curved tip at its proximal end; a second elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end, the second elongate member comprising a second curved tip at its proximal end; a channel formed in the second elongate member between the proximal end and the distal end of the second elongate member; a biasing member disposed in engagement with the first elongate member and the second elongate member, and being slidable along the channel, the biasing member comprising: a bridge portion slidably positioned at least partially in the channel,Applicant: Edilberto Portilla Atty. Docket No.: 10683-0201PCT a post adapted to retain the bridge portion, and consequently the biasing member, in the channel, a wrap-around element engaging with the first elongate member and the second elongate member, wherein a sliding of the biasing member along the channel in a proximal direction towards the proximal end of the second elongate member causes the first elongate member and the second elongate member to be biased towards each other, and wherein a sliding of the biasing member along the channel in a distal direction towards the distal end of the second elongate member causes the first elongate member and the second elongate member to be biased away from each other; attaching the first curved tip on a lever of the jewelry fastener; attaching the second curved tip on a part of a main portion of the jewelry fastener; translating the biasing member in the proximal direction to cause the first and second elongate members to be biased towards each other and to cause a continual decrease in a distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip to an extent that the lever is depressed and the jewelry fastener is opened; and translating the biasing member in the distal direction to cause the first and second elongate members to be biased away from each other and to cause a continual increase in a distance between the first curved tip and the second curved tip to an extent that the lever is compressed and the jewelry fastener is closed.

Images