Interlocking Jewelry Links with Rotational Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jewelry links are permanently coupled, making it difficult to attach or detach them without tools or adhesives, limiting versatility and convenience in forming pendants, bracelets, or earrings.
Innovation Solution
Design of interlocking links with a connecting member and bail/post links that allow for secure detachable connections, enabling easy assembly and disassembly without tools, using a locking mechanism that allows insertion and rotation to secure or release the links.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If links are permanently coupled using soldering or bending, then the connection strength is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates as tools are required and links cannot be detached
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting member is divided into distinct functional segments: an extension arm for insertion and a locking head for securing. This segmentation allows the connection mechanism to be broken down into simple insertion and locking steps that require no tools, while maintaining strong connections through the locking head's engagement with the receiving compartment.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking head is designed to lock automatically upon insertion into the receiving compartment through its stepped portion engaging with the compartment's geometry. Similarly, the connection can be released by simple manual manipulation without requiring external tools or adhesives, making the system self-sufficient for both attachment and detachment operations.
2Reliability
If links are permanently coupled, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates as links cannot be reconfigured or removed
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static permanent bond to a dynamic reversible connection. The locking head can be engaged and disengaged on demand, allowing the jewelry piece to be reconfigured into different arrangements or have links added or removed while maintaining reliable connections during each configured state.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized connecting member and receiving compartment design creates a universal interface that can be used across multiple links and jewelry configurations. The same locking mechanism works for forming pendants, bracelets, or other jewelry types, and allows individual links to be reused in different arrangements, maximizing versatility.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional connecting methods are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the device complexity increases due to the need for additional tools and adhesive devices
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for external tools (soldering irons, pliers) and adhesive devices from the connection process. The connecting member integrates all necessary locking functionality into its own structure, particularly through the locking head design, so that no separate tools are required for assembly or disassembly operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An article of jewelry that includes removably interlocked links.