Shape Memory Alloy Jewelry Support Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jewelry designs using metallic support structures lack the ability to change shape temporarily and reversibly without causing permanent deformations or compromising the decorative effect, due to limited elasticity and freedom of movement.
Innovation Solution
A piece of jewelry featuring a metallic support structure composed of a pair of threads made from a shape memory alloy, allowing for unlimited shape changes while preventing rotation of cladding elements and maintaining the decorative effect through interconnected holes and seats for decorative elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a metal support structure with angular cross section is used, then the cladding elements are prevented from rotating around the support structure, but the freedom of movement of the support structure itself is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the support structure into two separate threads instead of using a single angular bar. This segmentation allows each thread to move independently, providing freedom of movement while the paired configuration prevents cladding elements from rotating around them.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-dimensional angular cross-section to a two-dimensional arrangement of two circular threads. This dimensional change allows the support structure to achieve freedom of movement in multiple directions while maintaining stability through the paired configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single thread made of shape memory alloy is used, then absolute freedom of movement is achieved, but the cladding elements become free to rotate and twist, spoiling the ornamental effect
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the single thread into two parallel threads. This segmentation maintains the freedom of movement characteristics of the thread while the paired configuration creates a stabilizing effect that prevents cladding elements from rotating, thereby preserving the ornamental effect.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the metal support structure has low elasticity, then the structure maintains its shape, but permanent deformations occur when shape changes are attempted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the material parameter by using shape memory alloy instead of conventional metal. This material parameter change enables the support structure to undergo reversible shape changes without permanent deformation, as the alloy can transform between martensitic and austenitic states.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses shape memory alloy, which is a composite material system exhibiting superelastic behavior. This composite material property allows the support structure to combine shape retention with reversible deformability, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability.
4Stability of the object's composition
If cladding elements are fixed to the support structure, then rotation is prevented, but the freedom of movement of the support structure is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the support structure into two separate threads, allowing the cladding elements to be positioned between them without direct fixation. This segmentation enables the support structure to move freely while the paired threads collectively prevent rotation of the cladding elements.
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
Enables absolute freedom of movement and design, allowing the jewelry to take on various shapes while returning to its original form when forces are removed, with enhanced security against unwanted rotation and increased decorative possibilities.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of threads (2a, 2b), which are made of a so-called metallic shape memory alloy (shape memory alloy)... each thread (2a, 2b) made of a shape memory alloy, which returns, when external forces acting on it in a deformed state are removed, into its own initial predetermined shape
Implementation Method 2
This particular behavior of these shape memory alloys (shape memory alloys) is known as superelastic behavior, which means the ability of the alloy to return to its original predetermined shape in a completely elastic manner, i.e. without suffering permanent deformations
Data Source
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AI summary
A piece of jewellery (1) comprises a metallic supporting structure (2) and a plurality of lining elements (3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 3e; 3f; 3g; 3h) arranged in series one after another on the metallic supporting structure (2). Each lining element (3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 3e; 3f; 3g; 3h) has a through-opening through which the metallic supporting structure (2) extends, such that the lining elements are threaded onto the metallic supporting structure (2). According to the invention, the metallic supporting structure (2) consists of a pair of threads (2a, 2b), which are produced from a so-called metallic shape memory alloy, are arranged one alongside the other and are connected to one another, in particular welded to one another, only in the region of the ends thereof. The through-opening of each lining element (3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 3e; 3f; 3g; 3h) consists of a pair of adjacent holes (4a, 4b), and both the first lining element and the last lining element of the lining elements (3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 3e; 3f; 3g; 3h) arranged in series are additionally connected, in particular welded, to the threads (2a, 2b), whereas the remaining lining elements of the lining elements (3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 3e; 3f; 3g; 3h) arranged in series are merely threaded freely onto the pair of threads (2a, 2b) and can slide along the latter.