Expandable Ring Structure with Coupled Blocks and Internal Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rings and bracelets are rigid and fixed in size, leading to discomfort and instability when worn, as they may be too large and slide along the finger or wrist.
Innovation Solution
An expandable ring structure composed of coupled blocks with downward curved tubes and internal springs, allowing for translational movement and adjustable size to fit comfortably around the wrist or finger.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional rings are made to be worn at the base of the finger, then they provide an adequate fit for the wearer, but they may be too large and slide along the finger causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The ring structure transitions from a fixed rigid design to a dynamic expandable design. Multiple blocks connected by curved tubes allow the ring to change its circumference dynamically, expanding when put on and contracting to fit snugly on the finger, resolving the contradiction between ease of putting on and fit stability
Solution Approach 2:
The ring is divided into multiple discrete blocks that can move relative to each other. This segmentation allows the ring to be compressed for easy placement and then expand to provide a secure, stable fit on the finger, addressing both ease of operation and reliability
2Ease of operation
If bracelets are made rigid and consistently oversized to slip over the wrist, then they can be easily put on, but they become loose and can slide with ease or even slide through the wrist
Solution Approach 1:
The bracelet uses the same dynamic block-tube mechanism as the ring, allowing it to expand for easy placement over the wrist and then contract to provide a secure, non-sliding fit. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between ease of putting on and fit stability
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the bracelet into multiple blocks connected by curved tubes, the design enables the bracelet to be compressed for easy donning and then expand to conform to the wrist, providing both ease of operation and reliable fit
3Ease of operation
If conventional rings are made larger to accommodate knuckles, then they can be put on, but they slide along the finger and cause discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The ring dynamically adjusts its size by expanding when put on over the knuckle and then contracting to fit snugly on the finger, eliminating the sliding discomfort while maintaining ease of putting on. The dynamic block-tube mechanism allows this size adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented block structure allows the ring to be compressed for easy placement and then expand to provide a secure fit that prevents sliding. This segmentation enables the ring to adapt to different finger sizes and knuckle dimensions
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 expandable ring structure provides a comfortable and secure fit by adjusting to the wearer's size, preventing sliding and ensuring a snug, durable connection without the need for soldering.
Implementation Method 1
The spring is internal to the tubes and the curved channel through the block. The spring provides a compressive force to maintain a solid-like 'closed appearance' unless stretched to accommodate wearer's size.
Implementation Method 2
A present disclosure provides an expandable ring structure, comprising of a plurality of coupled blocks that each has a degree of translational movement relative to each other.
Data Source
AI summary
A low-profile expandable ring structure comprising a plurality of coupled blocks each maintaining a degree of translational movement with respect to each other. Each block has one or more protruding tubes on the front side, which are inserted into openings of the adjacent block. A tensioned spring is passed through the internal channel of each block, which maintains the ring structure in a closed appearance but allows expansion of the ring structure through the translational movement of the blocks. This nature allows the expandable ring structure to be comfortable for the wearer.