Elastomeric Ring Pad for Finger Slippage and Rotation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Finger-worn rings tend to rotate or slip off due to being slightly too large, especially for individuals with wider knuckles, and existing solutions are either temporary, visible, uncomfortable, or difficult to adjust.
Innovation Solution
A pad with an elastically compressible polysiloxane body and adhesive layer is applied to the inner surface of the ring, compressing to prevent rotation and slippage by urging against the finger, with optional polysiloxane-based adhesives and engageable surface features for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a ring is made slightly larger to accommodate wider knuckles, then the ring can be worn by people with arthritis or enlarged knuckles, but the ring becomes susceptible to rotation and slippage
Solution Approach 1:
The ring is segmented into two functional zones: a larger outer circumference that accommodates the knuckle, and an inner tightening mechanism (pad or bead) that creates a localized smaller diameter zone to grip the finger. This segmentation allows the ring to simultaneously fit the knuckle while preventing slippage.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary element (pad or sizing bead) is introduced between the ring interior and the finger. This intermediary provides the tightening function without requiring the entire ring to be smaller, allowing the ring to accommodate the knuckle while the intermediary prevents slippage on the finger.
2Reliability
If ring sizing beads are soldered to the inside of the ring, then the ring can be tightened and prevented from slippage, but the solution becomes semi-permanent and difficult to adjust or remove
Solution Approach 1:
The pad is designed as a temporary, easily replaceable component rather than a permanent modification. It can be applied and removed without damaging the ring, allowing for adjustment or replacement as needed, unlike soldered beads that require professional removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a static, permanent modification (soldered beads) to a dynamic, adjustable solution. The pad can be applied, removed, and repositioned as needed, providing ongoing adaptability rather than a fixed state.
3Manufacturing precision
If ring sizing beads are soldered onto the ring, then the ring fit can be improved, but the beads require expert jeweller insertion and provide no cushioning
Solution Approach 1:
The material parameter of the tightening element is changed from hard metal (sizing bead) to soft elastomeric material (pad). This parameter change provides both precise fit through the pad's compliance and comfort through its cushioning properties, eliminating the discomfort of hard beads.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution uses composite construction combining an adhesive layer for attachment and an elastomeric pad body for comfort and tightening. This composite approach integrates both the precision of attachment and the comfort of soft material contact.
4Reliability
If prior art tightening devices extend partway around the side of the ring, then the ring can be prevented from rotating, but the devices become visible and fail to be discreet
Solution Approach 1:
The tightening function is localized to a small pad applied at a specific point on the ring interior rather than extending around the entire ring. This localized approach provides the necessary stability while minimizing visual impact, as only a small portion of the ring is modified.
Solution Approach 2:
The visible portion of prior art tightening devices is extracted/removed, leaving only the essential functional element (the pad) applied internally. This extracts the aesthetic problem while retaining the stability function.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a comfortable, semi-permanent, and adjustable means to prevent ring rotation and slippage, suitable for various finger shapes, including those with wider knuckles, by enhancing the ring's fit and friction without visible extensions.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive layer adapted to adhere to the inner surface of the finger-ring
Implementation Method 2
the pad body is compressed, and the compressed pad body urges against the finger, such that rotation or movement of the finger-ring about or along the finger is inhibited
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a pad to be applied to an inner surface of a finger-ring, comprising an elastically compressible pad body and an adhesive layer adapted to adhere to the inner surface of the finger-ring, wherein, upon the finger-ring being worn upon a finger, the pad body is compressed, and the compressed pad body urges against the finger, such that rotation or movement of the finger-ring about or along the finger is inhibited. The present invention further relates to a method of use thereof, a method of formation thereof and a kit comprising an embodiment of the pad of the present invention.