Modular Jewelry with Intermediate Elements for Variable Dimensions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular jewelry items that change dimensions from a closed to an open configuration are fragile, aesthetically unsatisfactory in the open position, and lack robustness, often reverting to one of the extreme positions rather than maintaining intermediate dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A jewelry item comprising modular elements with at least three connection points and an intermediate portion allowing the interposition of additional elements, creating a structure that is resistant to deformation and aesthetically pleasing in all configurations, achieved by connecting modular elements through rotation pins and housing decorative elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular elements are connected to allow variable dimensions from closed to open configuration, then the jewellery item becomes adaptable to different users and configurations, but the item becomes fragile and susceptible to shape variation and breakage in the open configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The jewellery item is divided into multiple modular elements (first, second, third, and fourth modular elements) that can be connected and disconnected. Each modular element contains connection points that allow the item to be segmented into different configurations, enabling variable dimensions while maintaining structural integrity through the modular connection system.
Solution Approach 2:
A third modular element is introduced as an intermediary between the second and fourth modular elements. This intermediate element acts as a mediator that strengthens the connection in the open configuration, preventing fragility and shape variation by providing additional structural support at the connection points.
2Ease of manufacture
If the jewellery item is designed with simple modular connections, then the manufacturing is simple and economical, but the item is not aesthetically satisfactory in the open position
Solution Approach 1:
The functional connection points are merged with aesthetic housings that can contain decorative elements. The connection mechanism is combined with the visual design, so that the joints between modular elements are not merely functional but also aesthetic features that enhance the appearance in both closed and open configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular elements are designed to serve multiple functions: they provide structural connection, enable variable dimensions, and contribute to aesthetic appearance. The same modular components that facilitate simple manufacturing also serve as decorative elements when visible in the open configuration.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the jewellery item uses robust connections to maintain intermediate positions, then the item maintains modular dimensions, but the item becomes less adaptable to configuration changes
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is designed to be dynamic, allowing the jewellery item to transition between different configurations. The modular elements can be connected and disconnected at various connection points, enabling the item to adapt between closed, open, and intermediate configurations while maintaining stability in each position through the robust modular connection structure.
Data Source
Figure 1a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 3c~4d
AI summary
It is illustrated a jewellery item (1) comprising a plurality of modular elements (2) wherein at least one of such modular elements (2) comprises: - at least three connection points (3a, 3b, 3c) for connecting to three further modular elements (2a, 2b, 2c), each connection point (3a, 3b, 3c) being suitable for connecting said at least one modular element (2) to a further modular element (2a, 2b, 2c); and - at least one intermediate portion (4), interposed between a first connection point (3a) for connection to a first further modular element (2a) and a second connection point (3b) for connection to a second further modular element (2b) of said three connection points (3a, 3b, 3c), said at least one intermediate portion (4) being configured so as to allow the interposition of a further fourth element (2d) between said further first modular element (2a) and said further second modular element (2b); wherein said at least one modular element (2) is connected to said three further modular elements (2a, 2b, 2c) and operatively associated, with said further fourth modular element (2d) so as to allow the jewellery item (1) to pass from a contracted configuration to an extended configuration varying the dimensions thereof. Furthermore, a method for connecting modular elements (2) for producing a jewellery item (1) of variable dimensions is illustrated.