U.S. patent application number 10/252316 was filed with the patent office on 2004-03-25 for jewelry articles having magnetic elements and interchangeable settings.
Invention is credited to Hartgrove, Ronald W..
Application Number | 20040055332 10/252316 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31992933 |
Filed Date | 2004-03-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040055332 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hartgrove, Ronald W. |
March 25, 2004 |
JEWELRY ARTICLES HAVING MAGNETIC ELEMENTS AND INTERCHANGEABLE
SETTINGS
Abstract
Jewelry articles having magnetic elements and interchangeable
settings are disclosed. In one aspect, the jewelry articles include
magnetically coupling body portions and interchangeable settings.
The body portions magnetically couple together to hold the
interchangeable settings. For example, the body portions can
magnetically couple together using rare earth magnets to form a
composite ring. Preferably, at least one of the body portions is
rotatable to tangentially break the magnetic coupling between the
body portions to interchange the setting. In another aspect of the
present invention, magnetic elements are used to magnetically
suspend a movable setting on a jewelry article. An longitudinal
member has at least one end connected to the jewelry article. The
setting is movably disposed on the longitudinal member. A first
magnetic element adjacent an end of the longitudinal member
magnetically repels a second magnetic element on the setting.
Inventors: |
Hartgrove, Ronald W.;
(Houston, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HOWREY SIMON ARNOLD & WHITE LLP
750 BERING DRIVE
HOUSTON
TX
77057
US
|
Family ID: |
31992933 |
Appl. No.: |
10/252316 |
Filed: |
September 23, 2002 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
63/29.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A44C 17/0258 20130101;
A44C 9/003 20130101; A44D 2203/00 20130101; A44C 15/003 20130101;
A44C 17/0216 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
063/029.2 |
International
Class: |
A44C 017/02 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A jewelry article comprising: a setting having a mounting
portion; a first body portion having a holding portion, the holding
portion capable of holding the mounting portion except from at
least one direction; and a second body portion capable of
magnetically coupling with the first body portion, the second body
portion capable of holding the mounting portion from the at least
one direction when magnetically coupled to the first body
portion.
2. The jewelry article of claim 1, wherein at least one of the body
portions comprises a magnetic element disposed thereon.
3. The jewelry article of claim 2, wherein the magnetic element is
a rare earth magnet.
4. The jewelry article of claim 1, wherein the first and second
body portions are substantially identical.
5. The jewelry article of claim 1, wherein the first and second
body portions magnetically couple together to form a ring, a
bracelet, an earring, a choker, a bezel, a pendant, or a
broach.
6. The jewelry article of claim 1, wherein the body portions are
separable from one another in the at least one direction to break
magnetic coupling between the body portions.
7. The jewelry article of claim 1, wherein at least one of the body
portions is rotatable about the mounting portion to break magnetic
coupling between the body portions.
8. The jewelry article of claim 7, wherein the holding portion
comprises a negative area defined in the first body portion, the
negative area defined by a radius and having a circumferential
dimension at least greater than half of a circle.
9. A jewelry article comprising: a setting; first means for holding
the setting except from at least one direction; second means for
holding the setting from the at least one direction; and means for
magnetically coupling the first and second means for holding the
setting.
10. The jewelry article of claim 9, wherein the means for
magnetically coupling the first and second means comprises at least
one magnet.
11. The jewelry article of claim 9, further comprising means for
separating the first and second means in the at least one direction
to break magnetic coupling between the first and second means.
12. The jewelry article of claim 9, further comprising means for
rotating at least one of the first or second means about a portion
of the setting to break magnetic coupling between the first and
second means.
13. The jewelry article of claim 9, further comprising means for
preventing tilting of the setting in the magnetically coupled first
and second means.
14. A jewelry article comprising, a member having a first end and a
second end, at least one of the ends being connected to the jewelry
article; a first magnetic element positioned adjacent the first end
of the member; a setting being movable along the member; and a
second magnetic element attached to the setting and capable of
being magnetically repelled by proximity to the first magnetic
element.
15. The jewelry article of claim 14, wherein the setting defines a
bore having the member passing therethrough.
16. The jewelry article of claim 14, wherein the second magnetic
element is affixed in a hole in the setting.
17. The jewelry article of claim 14, wherein the member comprises
one or more prongs on the first end holding the first magnetic
element.
18. The jewelry article of claim 14, wherein at least one of the
ends of the member is removably connected to the jewelry article
for interchanging the setting.
19. The jewelry article of claim 14, wherein the first end and
second ends are connected to the jewelry article.
20. The jewelry article of claim 19, further comprising: a third
magnetic element positioned adjacent the second end of the member;
and a fourth magnetic element attached to the setting and capable
of being magnetically repelled by proximity to third magnet.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to jewelry articles,
and more particularly to jewelry articles having magnetic elements
and having interchangeable and/or movable settings.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The desirability of having jewelry articles, such as rings,
pendants, earrings, bracelets, or broaches, with interchangeable
settings has long been evident in the art. Being interchangeable,
the setting can be matched to other articles of jewelry, clothing,
or accessories. In my co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/982,662, entitled "Decorative Articles with Interchangeable
Settings," I disclose interchangeable modules, which attach to
decorative articles using mechanical structures. In the present
application, however, jewelry articles having magnetic elements are
disclosed. In one aspect of the present invention, the magnetic
elements are used to magnetically couple portions of the jewelry
article together to hold an interchangeable setting. In another
aspect of the present invention, the magnetic elements are used to
magnetically suspend a movable setting on a jewelry article.
[0003] Jewelry articles having magnets are disclosed in the art.
For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,059,971; 4,195,492; 4,424,689;
4,912,944; 4,982,581; 5,193,360; 5,283,966; 5,806,346; 6,101,843;
and 6,305,192 and U.S. Patent Application Publications 2001/0052245
and 2002/0073732 disclose articles of jewelry having magnets.
[0004] In one example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,353,608 to Berkowitz
discloses a jewelry device having a setting member and a pair of
hoops. The setting member has first and second display objects in
opposite facing directions. The pair of hoops is pivotably
connected to the setting member. The hoops can be rotated in
opposite directions above and below the setting member to either
display the first or second objects. When lying adjacent one
another, the hoops are held together by a magnets at the bottom of
the hoops. The setting is permanently and pivotally connected to
the hoops. The hinged connections between the hoops and the setting
member are difficult to manufacture and difficult to disguise on
the jewelry article, which decreases the aesthetic value. In
addition, the setting member can hold only two display objects,
which limits the use of the jewelry article with other decorative
articles.
[0005] In another example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,052,864 to Hofsaess
discloses a jewelry article having a perpendicular mounting stem. A
pendulum member is rotatable on the stem and has at least one pair
of oppositely disposed magnets radially mounted thereto. A platform
having various decorative elements is disposed above the pendulum
and is freely rotatable about the mounting stem. The platform also
includes a pair of magnets, which are radially aligned with the
magnets of the pendulum. The identical magnetic pole of each pair
of magnets and is juxtaposed, one above the other, causing a
repulsing rotational action therebetween. To achieve the rotation,
the platform and pendulum require complex bearing structures on the
mounting stem.
[0006] The present invention is directed to overcoming, or at least
reducing the effects of, one or more of the problems set forth
above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] Jewelry articles having magnetic elements and
interchangeable settings are disclosed. In one aspect, the jewelry
articles include magnetically coupling body portions and
interchangeable settings. The body portions magnetically couple
together to hold the interchangeable settings. For example, the
body portions can magnetically couple together using rare earth
magnets to form a composite ring. Preferably, at least one of the
body portions is rotatable to tangentially break the magnetic
coupling between the body portions to interchange the setting.
[0008] In another aspect of the present invention, magnetic
elements are used to magnetically suspend a movable setting on a
jewelry article. An longitudinal member has at least one end
connected to the jewelry article. The setting is movably disposed
on the longitudinal member. A first magnetic element adjacent an
end of the longitudinal member magnetically repels a second
magnetic element on the setting.
[0009] The foregoing summary is not intended to summarize each
potential embodiment or every aspect of the invention disclosed
herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The foregoing summary, preferred embodiments, and other
aspects of the present invention will be best understood with
reference to a detailed description of specific embodiments of the
invention, which follows, when read in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a first embodiment
of a jewelry article having magnetically coupling body portions and
an interchangeable setting according to the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of a first body portion of
the jewelry article of FIG. 2.
[0013] FIG. 3A illustrates a side view of a stage of coupling the
body portions and interchangeable setting of the jewelry article of
FIG. 2.
[0014] FIG. 3B illustrates a front view of a stage of uncoupling
the body portions and interchangeable setting of the jewelry
article of FIG. 2.
[0015] FIGS. 4A-B illustrate various views of a second embodiment
of a jewelry article having magnetically coupling body portions and
an interchangeable setting according to the present invention.
[0016] FIGS. 5A-B illustrate various views of a third embodiment of
a jewelry article having magnetically coupling body portions and an
interchangeable setting according to the present invention.
[0017] FIGS. 6A-B illustrate various views of a fourth embodiment
of a jewelry article having magnetically coupling body portions and
an interchangeable setting according to the present invention.
[0018] FIGS. 7A-B illustrate various views of a fifth embodiment of
a jewelry article having magnetically coupling body portions and an
interchangeable setting according to the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of a sixth embodiment
of a jewelry article having magnetic elements and an
interchangeable setting according to the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
an interchangeable setting for use with the jewelry article of FIG.
8A.
[0021] FIG. 9A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a seventh
embodiment of a jewelry article having magnetically coupling body
portions and an interchangeable setting according to the present
invention.
[0022] FIG. 9B illustrate a perspective view of an embodiment of an
interchangeable setting for use with the jewelry article of FIG.
9A.
[0023] FIGS. 10A-B illustrate embodiments of jewelry articles
having magnetic elements and movable settings according to the
present invention.
[0024] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way
of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein.
However, it should be understood that the invention is not intended
to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the
invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and
alternatives falling within the scope of the invention as defined
by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0025] Referring to FIGS. 1-3B, an embodiment of a jewelry article
10 in accordance with the present invention is illustrated. In FIG.
1, the jewelry article is illustrated in a perspective view having
an interchangeable setting 40. The jewelry article 10 includes
first and second body portions 20a and 20b. This and other
embodiments of the jewelry articles illustrated herein, including
embodiments of the body portions and interchangeable settings, are
depicted in a basic form to show the gross anatomy of the present
invention more clearly. It is understood that these basic forms can
be aesthetically designed or altered by one of ordinary skill in
the art without departing from the present invention.
[0026] The body portions 20a and 20b are substantially identical.
As will become evident below, however, the body portions 20a and
20b need not be strictly identical. The body portions 20a and 20b
can be composed of a suitable material, such as a precious metal,
and can be formed by methods known in the art, such as machining,
casting, soldering, or a combination thereof.
[0027] The first and second body portions 20a and 20b magnetically
couple together to hold the interchangeable setting 40. In the
present embodiment, the first and second body portions 20a and 20b
magnetically couple together to form a composite ring 10. Thus, an
opening 23a and 23b is defined in each of the body portions 20a and
20b to receive a finger of a person wearing the ring 10. However,
one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the body
portions 20a and 20b according to the teachings of the present
invention can be applied to other jewelry articles, such as
earrings, bracelets, broaches, or pendants.
[0028] Each of the body portions 20a and 20b has a coupling side
22a and 22b and has a holding portion or mounting areas 24a and one
not shown. In this and other embodiment, the holding portions 24a
and one not shown define negative areas in the body portions,
although this is not strictly necessary as will be evident herein.
The coupling sides 22a and 22b are complimentary to one another and
magnetically couple together, as will be discussed in more detail
below. Preferably, the outside surfaces of the ring 10 adjacent the
coupling sides 22a and 22b are machined and polished to
substantially hide the mating, adjacent edges of the body portions
20a and 20b.
[0029] The interchangeable setting 40 is capable of being
positioned in the mounting areas 24a and one not shown and held
therein, as will be discussed in more detail below. In the present
embodiment, the interchangeable setting 40 defines a sphere. As
will become evident below, however, interchangeable settings
according to the teachings of the present invention can have a
number of shapes or forms, including interchangeable settings
having other radial surfaces or having rectilinear surfaces.
[0030] Referring now to FIG. 2, one of the body portions 20 of the
ring 10 of FIG. 1 is shown in a front view to illustrate additional
details. As discussed above, the body portion 20 has a coupling
side 22 with a finger opening 21 defined therethough. The coupling
side 22 is a substantially flat surface and includes at least one
magnetic element 30. Preferably, the coupling side 22 includes two
magnetic elements 30 and 32. The magnetic elements 30 and 32 can
have a number of shapes other than the circular shapes shown
here.
[0031] At least one of the magnetic elements, for example element
30, is a permanent magnet. The permanent magnet can be, but is not
limited to, a ferrite magnet, an alnico magnet, a rare
earth-neodymium magnet, a rare earth-samarium cobalt magnet, or a
sintered neodymium-iron-boron compound. The required dimensions and
magnetic force for the magnetic elements depends on a number of
variables, including the dimensions and weights of the jewelry
article and interchangeable setting and a predetermined force to
uncouple the magnetic element, for example. Determining the
required dimensions and magnetic force for the magnetic elements on
such variables falls within the ability of one having ordinary
skill in the art.
[0032] The other magnetic element, for example element 32, can be
substantially similar to the first magnetic element 30 and can have
the same polarity as the first magnetic element 30. Alternatively,
it will be appreciated that the second magnetic element 32 can
include a piece of ferromagnetic material intended to mate with a
permanent magnet on the other body portion (not shown). The
magnetic elements 30 and 32, including permanent magnets or
ferromagnetic materials, can be affixed with epoxy into holes
formed in the coupling side 22 of the body portion 20. It will be
appreciated that the magnetic elements 30 and 32 need not be
strictly located between the finger opening 23 and the mounting
area 24 as shown, although this location is preferable as it
provides suitable space for the placement of the elements 30 and 32
in the material of the body portion 20. Furthermore, an additional
magnetic element 33 can be located adjacent the finger opening 23,
as shown in FIG. 2.
[0033] For the composite ring 10 of the present embodiment, both
magnetic elements 30 and 32 are preferably rare earth-neodymium
magnets, which provide substantially powerful magnetic fields
relative to their size. For illustrative purposes only, the gross
dimensions of the composite ring 10 can be about 11/4-inch by
7/8-inch by 1/4-inch, although it is understood that these
dimensions can be varied and do not limit the present invention in
any way. The magnets 30 and 32 are disc-shaped, having an
approximate diameter of 4.8-mm and a thickness of about 1.6-mm. The
magnetic elements 30 and 32 preferably have the same polarity
adjacent the mounting side 22 and mate with the opposing polarity
of rare earth-neodymium magnets on the other body portion.
[0034] The mounting area 24 receives a portion of the
interchangeable setting (not shown in FIG. 2) from a direction of
the first coupling side 22 (i.e., perpendicularly towards FIG. 2).
The mounting area 24 is capable of positively engaging the portion
of the setting except in the direction of the coupling side 22. As
discussed above, the interchangeable setting 40 of FIGS. 1-3B is
spherical. Consequently, the mounting area 24 in the present
embodiment has a partially spherical surface 25 defined by a radius
R from a center 28. To positively engage the portion of the setting
except in the direction of the coupling side 22, a circumferential
dimension defined by the spherical surface 25 is at least greater
than half of a circle. In this way, an open, upper dimension D1 of
the mounting area 24 is less than the diameter (2R) of the surface
25. In addition, the partially spherical surface 25 defines a
greater dimension adjacent the coupling side 22 than on the
opposing side of the body portion 20. Thus, the setting can be
received in the mounting area 24 from the coupling side 22 but
cannot pass through the opposing side of mounting area 24.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 3A, the body portions 20a and 20b and
interchangeable setting 40 of the jewelry article 10 of FIGS. 1 and
2 are shown in a stage of coupling together. For illustrative
purposes, the body portions 20a and 20b are shown in cross-section
to reveal addition details. In general, the interchangeable setting
40 includes a first mounting portion 42, a second mounting portion
44, and a decorative portion 46. Being spherical in the present
embodiment, the interchangeable setting 40 realistically has only
one spherical surface embodying all of the portions 42, 44, and 46.
Designating the distinct mounting portions 42 and 44 and decorative
portion 46 is made for the benefit of other embodiments of
interchangeable settings disclosed herein and is made to provide
relative terminology for coupling the body portions 20a and 20b and
the setting 40 together.
[0036] As best shown in FIG. 3A, the mounting areas 24a and 24b
include the partially spherical surfaces 25a and 25b for engaging
the mounting portions 42 and 44 of the setting 40. The mounting
areas 24a and 24b define greater openings adjacent the coupling
sides 22a and 22b of the body portions 20a and 20b than are defined
at open sides 26a and 26b of the mounting areas 24a and 24b. The
top sides 27a and 27b of the mounting areas 24a and 24b are open so
that the decorative portion 46 of the setting 40 can be viewed.
[0037] To form the composite ring 10, the interchangeable setting
40 is first positioned in one of the mounting areas 24a from the
direction of the coupling side 22a. The setting 40 is thereby held
in the mounting area 24a in all directions except towards the
coupling side 22a. The body portions 20a and 20b are then coupled
in direction A. The magnetic elements 30a, 30b and others not shown
on the respective coupling surfaces 22a and 22b are aligned and
magnetically couple. The mounting areas 24a and 24b therefore
positively hold the interchangeable setting 40 to the coupled body
portions 20a and 20b.
[0038] The first magnetic element 30a has a first polarity. The
opposing magnetic element 30b, if also a magnet, has a second
polarity opposite the first polarity so that the elements 30a and
30b can magnetically couple when positioned adjacent one another.
Alternatively, one of the magnetic elements, for example 30a, can
be a magnet, while the other element 30b can simply be material of
the body portion 20b if the body portion is of sufficient magnetic
permeability. Alternatively, the other element 30b can be a
magnetically permeable material embedded in the body portion
20b.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 3B, the jewelry article 10 is illustrated
in a front view. The body portions 20a and 20b and interchangeable
setting 40 are shown in a stage of uncoupling. Preferably, at least
one of the body portions 20a or 20b is capable of rotating in
direction B about the setting 40. In the present embodiment, either
one or both of the body portions 20a and 20b are capable of
rotating about the setting 40 in direction B to break the magnetic
coupling of the elements 30a, 30b and 32a, 32b. Although preferred,
having at least one rotating body portion is not strictly
necessary, as will be evidenced herein.
[0040] Rotation of the second body portion 20b tangentially breaks
the magnetic engagement between the magnetic elements 30a, 30b and
32a, 32b. With the magnetic engagement broken, the body portions
20a and 20b can be separated, freeing the setting 40 from the
complimentary mounting areas 24a and 24b. Rotation of the second
body portion 20b occurs about the setting 40 held in the mounting
area 24b. The center 28 of the mounting area 24b defines an axis of
rotation C that substantially aligns with a central axis or center
of the interchangeable setting 40. Because the setting 40 is
spherical in the present embodiment, the axis of rotation C passes
through the center 48 of the spherical setting 40. Once uncoupled,
another interchangeable setting (not shown) having a different
composition or aesthetic appearance, for example, can be positioned
in the mounting areas 24a and 24b and held by the magnetically
coupled body portions 20a and 20b.
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 4A-B, another embodiment of a jewelry
article 12 having magnetically coupling body portions 20a and 20b
and an interchangeable setting 50 according to the present
invention are illustrated. In FIG. 4A, first and second body
portions 20a and 20b of the jewelry article 12 are shown in a stage
of coupling to one another to hold the interchangeable setting 50.
The first and second body portions 20a and 20b are illustrated in a
side, cross-sectional view to show internal details. In a front
view of FIG. 4B, the setting 50 is shown installed in a mounting
area 24a of the first body portion 20a. The first and second body
portions 20a and 20b are substantially similar to those discussed
above with reference to FIGS. 1-3. For brevity, like reference
numerals are used to indicate substantially similar elements
between embodiments.
[0042] The interchangeable setting 50 includes a mounting portion
51 and a decorative portion 56. The mounting portion 51 is a
partial disc having a first mounting side 52 and a second mounting
side 54. As best shown in FIG. 4B, the partial disc 51 defines a
cylindrical surface 53 defined by a radius R from a center 58. A
circumferential dimension of the cylindrical surface 53 is at least
greater than half of a circle so that an upper dimension D.sub.2 of
the disc 51 is less than the diameter (2R) of the cylindrical
surface 53. The decorative portion 56 can have any particular
shape.
[0043] As in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3 above, the first and
second body portions 20a and 20b are identical, mirror images of
one another and are substantially the same as the previous
embodiment. The mounting areas 24a and 24b are open towards the
coupling sides 22a and 22b of the body portions 20a and 20b where
they receive the mounting sides 52 and 54 of the interchangeable
setting 50. In the present embodiment, however, the body portions
20a and 20b include mounting areas 24a and 24b of a different
configuration than those discussed above with reference to FIGS.
1-3. In the present embodiment, both holding portions or mounting
areas 24a and 24b define disc-shaped indentations being
complimentary to the mounting sides 52 or 54 of the disc 51 of the
setting 50. The mounting areas 24a and 24b include cylindrical
surfaces 25a and 25b, closed sides 26a and 26b, and open tops 27a
and 27b.
[0044] To form the jewelry article 10, the first mounting side 52
of the interchangeable setting 50 is first positioned in the
mounting area 24a of the first body portion 20a from the direction
of the coupling side 22a. As shown in FIG. 4B, the setting 50 is
held in the mounting area 24a in all directions except towards the
coupling side 22a. The second body portion 20b is positioned
adjacent the first body portion 20a in direction A, as shown in
FIG. 4A. The second mounting side 54 is then positioned in the
second mounting area 24b. Of course, the setting 50 can be first
positioned in either mounting area 24a or 24b. The magnetic
elements 30a, 30b, and others not shown on the respective coupling
surfaces 22a and 22b are aligned and magnetically couple. The
mounting areas 24a and 24b positively engage the mounting sides 52
and 54 to hold the interchangeable setting 50.
[0045] In the present embodiment, either one or both of the body
portions 20a and 20b is capable of rotating about the disc 51 of
the setting in direction B to break the magnetic coupling of the
elements 30a, 30b and those not shown. Rotation of the body portion
20 tangentially breaks the magnetic engagement between the magnetic
elements 30a, 30b and those not shown. With the magnetic engagement
broken, the body portions 20a and 20b can be separated, freeing the
mounting sides 52 and 54 of the disc 51 from the complimentary
mounting areas 24a and 24b.
[0046] Rotation of the body portion 20 occurs about an axis of
rotation C where the center 58 of the disc 51 substantially aligns
with the centers of the mounting areas 24. Because the setting 50
includes the disc 51 connected to a larger decorative portion 56 in
the present embodiment, a necessary amount of space 55 on the
cylindrical surface 53 of the disc 51 is required between the edges
of the open top 27 of the body portion and the decorative portion
56. The space 55 allows the body portion 20 to rotate in direction
B about axis C enough to break magnetic engagement of the elements
(not shown) without the top of the body portion 20 interfering with
the decorative portion 56 of the setting 50.
[0047] When the jewelry article 12 is worn, external contact of the
decorative portion 56 could cause the disc 51 to tilt within the
mounting areas 24a and 24b and pry the body portions 20a and 20b
apart, which would be undesirable. In this and other embodiments,
it will be appreciated that the decorative portion 56 can define a
low profile extending beyond the coupled body portions 20a and 20b.
The decorative portion 56 can also have contact with outer surfaces
of the body portions 20a and 20b, which will not interfere with the
coupling and uncoupling thereof and which can prevent tilting of
the setting 50. For example, in FIGS. 4A-B, a structure 59 is
positioned adjacent the decorative portion 56 and is capable of
engaging a top, outer surface of the body portion 20a, yet still
allow the body portion 20a to rotate about central axis C. The
structure 59 can reduce the potential of prying the body portions
20a and 20b apart due to external contact to the setting 50.
[0048] Referring to FIGS. 5A-B, another embodiments of a jewelry
article 14 having magnetically coupling body portions 20a and 20b
and an interchangeable setting 60 according to the present
invention is illustrated. In FIG. 5A, the first and second body
portions 20a and 20b of the jewelry article 14 are shown in a stage
of coupling to one another to hold the interchangeable setting 60.
The first and second body portions 20a and 20b are illustrated in a
side, cross-sectional view to show internal details. In the front
view of FIG. 5B, the setting 60 is shown installed in a mounting
area 24a of the first body portion 20a.
[0049] The interchangeable setting 60 includes a first mounting
portion 62, a second mounting portion 64, a decorative portion 66.
The first mounting portion 62 forms a disc structure. Being
disc-shaped, the disc portion 62 has a cylindrical surface 63
defined by a radius R from a center 68. A circumferential dimension
of the cylindrical surface 63 of the disc portion 62 is at least
greater than half of a circle. The decorative portion 66 is
attached to the top of the disc portion 62 and can have any
particular shape. The second mounting portion 64 forms a
rectilinear structure, such as the T-shaped structure illustrated.
Having the T-shape can prevent the setting from rotating about an
axis within the second mounting area, which can prevent the setting
from tilting within the second mounting area 24b and prying the
body portions 20a and 20b apart due to external contact.
[0050] To form the jewelry article 14, one of the mounting
portions, for example the disc portion 62, of the interchangeable
setting 50 is first positioned in the holding portion or mounting
area 24a of the first body portion 20a from the direction of the
coupling side 22a. As best shown in FIG. 5B, the first mounting
area 24a is complimentary to the disc portion 62. The second body
portion 20b is then positioned adjacent the first body portion 20a
in direction A. The rectilinear portion 64 is positioned in the
second mounting area 24a, which is shaped complimentary to the
rectilinear portion 64.
[0051] Once coupled, the magnetic elements 30a, 30b and those not
shown on the respective coupling surfaces 22a and 22b magnetically
couple. The mounting areas 24a and 24b therefore positively hold
the interchangeable setting 50. In the present embodiment, the
first body portion 20a is rotatable about the disc portion 62 of
the setting 60. Being rectilinear, the rectilinear portion 64 and
the second mounting area 24b do not allow the second body portion
20b to rotate. The body portions 20a and 20b are uncoupled by
rotating the first body portion 20a about center axis C. Rotation
of the first body portion 20a tangentially breaks the magnetic
coupling of the magnetic elements.
[0052] As best shown in FIG. 5B, a necessary amount of space 65 on
the cylindrical surface of the disc portion 62 is required between
the edges of the open top 27 of the body portion 20a and the
decorative portion 66 to allow the body portion 20a to rotate in
direction B about axis C enough to break magnetic engagement of the
magnetic elements. The space 65 is required so the top of the body
portion 20 does not interfere with the decorative portion 56 of the
setting 50.
[0053] Referring to FIGS. 6A-B, yet another embodiment of a jewelry
article 16 having magnetically coupling body portions 20a and 20b
and an interchangeable setting 70 according to the present
invention is illustrated. In FIG. 6A, the first and second body
portions 20a and 20b of the jewelry article 16 are shown in a stage
of coupling to one another to hold the interchangeable setting 70.
The first and second body portions 20a and 20b are illustrated in a
side, cross-sectional view to show internal details. In the front
view of FIG. 6B, the-setting 70 is shown installed in a mounting
area 24a of the first body portion 20a.
[0054] As discussed in previous embodiments, the interchangeable
settings according to the present invention preferably include at
least one mounting side having a surface defined by a radius, such
as a radial, spherical, or cylindrical surface, that allows for a
body portion of the jewelry article to rotate thererabout. In the
present embodiment of FIGS. 6A-B, however, the interchangeable
setting 70 includes a rectilinear portion 71 connected to a
decorative portion 76 by an attachment portion 75. The rectilinear
portion 71 includes a first mounting portion or end 72 and a second
mounting portion or end 74. In the present embodiment, the
rectilinear portion 71 defines a T-shaped structure, although this
is not strictly necessary: any structural shape, which will not
allow rotation thereon, can be used. At least one dimension, either
lateral or longitudinal, of the rectilinear portion 71 is greater
than a dimension of the attachment portion 71 so that the mounting
ends 72 and 74 can be positively held by the mounting areas 24a and
24b of the body portions 20a and 20b, as described below.
[0055] To form the jewelry article 16, one of the mounting ends,
for example the first end 72, is positioned in the mounting area
24a of the first body portion 20a from the direction of the
coupling side 22a. As best shown in FIG. 5B, the first mounting
area 24a is complimentary to the rectilinear first end 72. The
second body portion 20b is then positioned adjacent the first body
portion 20a in direction A. The second end 74 is positioned in the
second mounting area 24a, which is shaped complimentary to the
rectilinear second end 74.
[0056] In the present embodiment, neither of the body portions 20a
and 20b is rotatable. The body portions 20a and 20b are uncoupled
in a reverse of direction A. This operation of uncoupling is not
preferred, because breaking the coupling between the magnetic
elements 30a, 30b, and those not shown in the reverse of direction
A requires more force than breaking the coupling tangentially as
discussed above with reference to previous embodiments. To
facilitate uncoupling the body portions 20a and 20b in the reverse
of direction A, each body portion 20a and 20b can include a groove
21a and 21b permitting a person to separate the body portions 20a
and 20b with a fingernail or the like. The grooves 21a and 21b can
be decorative to disguise their function.
[0057] Referring to FIGS. 7A-B, yet another embodiment of a jewelry
article 18 having magnetically coupling body portions 20a and 20b
and an interchangeable setting 80 according to the present
invention is illustrated. In FIG. 7A, the first and second body
portions 20a and 20b of the jewelry article 18 are shown in a stage
of coupling to one another to hold the interchangeable setting 80.
The first and second body portions 20a and 20b and the setting 80
are illustrated in a side, cross-sectional view to show internal
details. In a frontal view of FIG. 7B, the setting 80 is shown
installed in a mounting area 24a of the first body portion 20a.
[0058] The interchangeable setting 80 includes a mounting portion
81 connected to a decorative portion 86. As discussed in previous
embodiments, the interchangeable settings according to the present
invention include mounting portions having positive structures, and
the body portions have holding portions defining negative areas. In
the present embodiment of FIGS. 7A-B, however, the mounting portion
81 has a first mounting surface 82 and defines a second mounting
area 84. The first holding portion 24a on the body portion 20a has
a flat structure 28a, and the second holding portion 24b on the
body portion 20b has a projecting structure 28b being substantially
complimentary to the mounting area 84 of the setting 80. For
example, as shown in FIG. 7B, the second mounting area 84 can have
a rectilinear shape so that the corresponding second holding
structure 28b, which is not shown in FIG. 7B, can also have a
substantially equivalent rectilinear shape to prevent rotation of
the setting 80.
[0059] To form the jewelry article 18, the projecting structure 28b
can be inserted into the second mounting area 84 from the direction
of the coupling side 22a. The second body portion 20b can then be
positioned adjacent the first body portion 20a in direction A so
that the flat structure 28b is positioned adjacent the mounting
surface 82. To uncouple the body portions 20a and 20b in the
present embodiment, the first body portion 20a is rotatable about
the mounting portion 81 installed in the holding area 24a. The
rotation tangentially breaks the magnetic coupling between the
magnetic elements 30a and 30b on the body portions 20a and 20b. To
allow for rotation of the first body portion 20a, sufficient
clearances are needed between the holding portion 24a and the
mounting portion 81 and between the first body portion 20a and the
decorative portion 86.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 8A, another embodiment of a jewelry
article 100 having magnetically coupling body portions 120a and
120b and an interchangeable setting 140 in accordance with the
present invention is illustrated. A first body portion 120a and a
second body portion 120b are separable and magnetically couple
together to form a part of the jewelry article 100. The first body
portion 120a is part of or is attached to the jewelry article 100.
For example, in the present embodiment, the first body portion 120a
is a bezel of a ring and is connected to an annular shank 123.
Alternatively, it will be appreciated that the first body portion
120a can be part of or attached to a pendent, bracelet, earring,
broach, or other jewelry article.
[0061] The first body portion 120a defines a coupling surface 122a,
which is recessed and forms a rim 123a around the bezel 120a. A
holding portion or mounting area 124a is defined in the coupling
surface 122a. The mounting area 124a receives a portion of the
interchangeable setting 140 therein, as described below. A first
pair of magnetic elements 130a and 130b are disposed in the
coupling surface 122a and adjacent the mounting area 124a. The
second body portion or bezel cap 120b has a coupling surface 122b
with magnetic elements 130b and 132b disposed therein. The bezel
cap 120b has a holding portion or mounting area 124b, which is an
opening defined in the bezel cap 120b in the present embodiment.
The setting 140 defines a sphere in the present embodiment, but
this is not strictly necessary, as is evidenced herein. In general,
the setting 140 includes a first mounting portion 142, a second
mounting portion 144, and a decorative portion 146.
[0062] To assemble the jewelry article 100, the first mounting
portion 142 of the setting 140 is disposed in the mounting area
124a of the bezel 120a and is positively held therein in all
directions except towards the coupling surface 122a. The coupling
surface 122b of the bezel cap 120b is then positioned adjacent the
coupling surface 122a in direction A. The decorative portion 146 of
the setting 140 is positioned through the mounting opening 124b for
display, and the mounting opening 124b engages the second mounting
portion 144 of the setting 140. The decorative portion 146 has a
dimension less than a dimension D.sub.2 of the mounting opening
124b, and the second mounting portion 144 has a dimension greater
than the dimension D.sub.2 of the mounting opening 124b. The bezel
cap 120b is held to the bezel 120a by the mating of the first and
second pairs of magnet elements 130a, 130b and 132a, 132b. When
attached, the cap 120b holds the interchangeable setting 140 onto
the bezel 120a.
[0063] Preferably, the decorative portion 146 of the setting
defines a low profile above the bezel cap 120b to prevent
inadvertent uncoupling of the cap 120b and bezel 120a. In addition,
the edge 123b of the cap 120b is preferably flush with the rim 123a
of the bezel 120a. In a preferred embodiment, the cap 120b is
removed from the bezel 120a by rotating the cap 120b in direction B
to tangentially break the magnetic coupling of the magnetic
elements 130a, 130b and 132a, 132b. Thus, the rim 123a, edge 123b,
opening 124b, and second mounting portion 144 each define radii
from a center C of rotation.
[0064] Once uncoupled, a new setting (not shown) having a different
shape or aesthetic quality can then be held with the magnetically
coupling bezel 120a and cap 120b. In addition, the cap 120b can
include decorative elements, such as inlays or embossed surfaces,
in which case the cap 120b can also be interchanged with a new cap
(not shown) having a different aesthetic characteristic. The
setting 140 and the cap 120b can also be used with other jewelry
articles (not shown). Therefore, the present invention enables a
person to form numerous combinations of interchangeable elements to
compose jewelry articles with different aesthetic
characteristics.
[0065] In an alternative aspect to the present embodiment, the
coupling surface 122a can define a cavity (not shown) for holding
miscellaneous items. For example, the cavity may hold medication.
The bezel cap 120b can be interchangeable and can have a setting
(not shown) permanently attached thereto. The cap 120b can
magnetically couple to the first body portion to hold the
miscellaneous items in the cavity.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 8B, an alternative embodiment of an
interchangeable setting 150 for the jewelry article of FIG. 8A is
illustrated. The setting 150 includes a first mounting portion 152,
a second mounting portion 154, and a decorative portion 156. The
first mounting portion 152 defines a disc, but can have any number
of shapes. The first mounting portion 152 includes an axial member
153 extending therefrom. The axial member 153 stabilizes the
setting 150 when held between coupling portions 120a and 120b of
the jewelry article 100. For example, the axial member 153
positions in a complimentary bore (not shown) in the mounting area
124a of the bezel 120a in FIG. 8A and prevents tilting of the
setting 150.
[0067] The second mounting portion 154 defines a shoulder 157 with
the first mounting portion 152 and defines a cylindrical surface
158 with the decorative portion 156. The shoulder 157 engages the
bezel cap 120b of FIG. 8A adjacent the mounting area 124b. The
decorative portion 156 extends above the mounting area 124b and can
have any particular shape. To allow the decorative portion 156 to
be positioned through the mounting area 124b of the bezel cap 120b
of FIG. 8A, the decorative portion 156 has a dimension that is less
than to the dimension D.sub.2 of the mounting area 124b. The
cylindrical surface 158 of the second mounting portion 154 allows
the bezel cap 120b to be rotated thereabout when uncoupling the
bezel cap 120b from the bezel 120a.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 9A, yet another embodiment of a jewelry
article 102 having magnetically coupling body portions 120a and
120b and an interchangeable setting 160 in accordance with the
present invention is illustrated in a cross-sectional view. The
first and second body portions 120a and 120b are substantially
similar to those discussed above with reference to FIG. 8A. For
brevity, like reference numerals are used to indicate substantially
similar elements between the embodiments of FIGS. 8A and 8B.
[0069] In the present embodiment, the setting 160 defines a bullet
shape having a first mounting portion 162, a second mounting
portion 164, and a decorative portion 166. As shown in FIG. 8B, the
first mounting portion 162 defines a flat surface 163 adjacent the
mounting area 124a. The flat surface 163 can prevent the setting
160 from being tilted and from prying the body portions 120a and
120b apart.
[0070] Assembly of the jewelry article 100 is substantially similar
to that described above with reference to FIG. 8A. Once assembled,
the mounting opening 124b engages the second mounting portion 164
of the setting 160, and the bezel cap 120b is held to the bezel
120a by the mating of the first and second pairs of magnet elements
130a, 130b and 132a, 132b.
[0071] In this embodiment, the cap 120b is removed from the bezel
120a by inserting an instrument 128 through a passage 126 defined
adjacent the mounting area 124a. With the instrument 128, the
setting 160 and the cap 120b are pushed away from the mounting area
124a and bezel 120a to break the magnetic coupling of the magnetic
elements 130a, 130b and 132a, 132b. With the cap 120b removed in
this manner, the rim 123a, edge 123b, opening 124b, and second
mounting portion 164 can have any particular shape and need not be
circular.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 9B, an alternative embodiment of an
interchangeable setting 170 for the jewelry article of FIG. 9A is
illustrated. The setting 170 includes a first mounting portion 172,
a second mounting portion 174, and a decorative portion 176. The
first mounting portion 172 defines a rectilinear structure. The
second mounting portion 174 defines a shoulder 177 with the first
mounting portion 172 and defines a rectilinear surface 178 with the
decorative portion 176. The shoulder 177 engages the bezel cap 120b
of FIG. 9A adjacent the mounting opening 124b. The decorative
portion 176 extends above the shoulder 174 and can have any
particular shape.
[0073] To allow the decorative portion 176 to be positioned through
the mounting area 124b of the bezel cap 120b of FIG. 9A, the
decorative portion 176 has a dimension that is less than the
dimension D.sub.2 of the mounting area 124b. Of course, the
mounting opening 124b of the bezel cap 120b will be rectilinear.
The rectilinear surface 178 of the second mounting portion 174 does
not allow the bezel cap 120b to be rotated thereabout.
Consequently, the rectilinear mounting opening 124b and surface 178
of the present embodiment of the setting 170 are particularly
suited for the method of uncoupling the bezel cap 120b and setting
170 using a small instrument described above.
[0074] As evidenced by the jewelry articles 10, 12, 14, 16, 18,
100, 102 and the settings 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 140, 150, 160, and
170 of FIGS. 1-9B, holding portions of the body portions and
mounting portions of the settings according to the teachings of the
present invention can have a number of configurations.
Consequently, it is understood that additional embodiments of
holding and mounting portions with other shapes or structures not
explicitly shown or described herein also fall within the scope of
the present invention. For example, the shapes or structures for
the holding and mounting portions can include, but are not limited
to radial, rectilinear, triangular, or other geometrical shapes or
structures. In addition, other shapes or structures can include
curved or freeform shapes or structures capable of engaging or
mating with a complementary holding portion or mounting portion.
Moreover, with the benefit of the present disclosure, one of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a mounting portion
of the setting need not exclusively define a positive structure
while a holding portion of a body portion defines a negative area.
Thus, as evidenced by the embodiment of FIGS. 7A-B, one of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that a mounting portion of a
setting can define a negative area while a holding portion of a
body portion can define a positive structure capable of engaging or
mating with the negative area.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 10A, a jewelry article 200 having magnetic
elements 230 and 232 and a movable setting 240 is illustrated
according to the present invention. The jewelry article 200
includes a body 210, which in the present embodiment is an earring
having a stud 212 and shank 214. The earring 200 also includes an
elongate or longitudinal member 220 having a proximal end 222 and a
distal end 223. The proximal end 222 is attached to the stud 212,
and the axial member 220 extends down from the earring 210. In one
embodiment, the proximal end 224 is permanently attached to the
stud 212. Alternatively, the proximal end 222 can be detachable
from the stud 212, allowing the setting 240 to be interchanged. For
example, the proximal end 222 can be threaded into a threaded hole
in the stud 222 or can be detachably connected to the stud 212 by
other methods known in the art.
[0076] A first magnetic element 230 is attached to the distal end
224 of the axial member 220. Attachment of the first magnetic
element 230 to the distal end 224 can be achieved using a number of
methods known in the art. For example, the magnetic element 230 can
be a rare earth magnet held by a plurality of prongs 225 attached
to the distal end 224. The first magnetic element 230 has a
specific polarity facing the axial member 220.
[0077] The setting 240 is movably disposed on the axial member 220.
For example, the setting 240 defines a bore 242 having the axial
member 220 disposed therethrough. One end of the setting 240 has a
second magnetic element 232 with a polarity opposing that of the
first magnetic element 230 on the distal end 224 of the axial
member 220. For example, the second magnetic element 232 can be a
rare earth magnet affixed with epoxy in a hole in the end of the
setting 240. The first and second magnetic elements 230 and 232
magnetically repel one another when in proximity, and the weight of
the setting 240 tends to force the magnetic elements 230 and 232 in
proximity. The opposing polarities of the magnets elements 230 and
232 act to suspend the setting 240 on the axial member 220 and
allow the setting 240 to move or oscillate along the axial member
220 in response to external movements and gravity.
[0078] Referring to FIG. 10B, another a jewelry article 250 having
magnetic elements 273, 275, 283, and 285 and a movable setting 280
is illustrated according to the present invention. The jewelry
article 250 includes a body 260, which in the present embodiment is
a ring or bracelet. The jewelry article 250 also includes an
elongate or longitudinal member 270 having a first end 272 and a
second end 274. Both ends 272 and 274 are attached to the body 260
so that the longitudinal member 270 is positioned adjacent the body
260. In one embodiment, one of the ends 272 is permanently attached
to a portion 262 of body 260, while the other end 272 is detachable
from a portion 264 of the body 260, allowing the setting 270 to be
interchanged. For example, the one end 272 can be attached to the
portion 262 with a hinge mechanism (not shown), and the other end
274 can detachably couple to a clasp mechanism (not shown) on the
portion 264 of the body 260.
[0079] A first magnetic element 273 is attached adjacent the first
end 272 of the longitudinal member 270. A second magnetic 275
element is attached adjacent the second end 274 of the longitudinal
member 270. The magnetic elements 273 and 275 can be attached to
the portions 262 and 264 of the body 260 or can be attached to the
longitudinal member 270. The setting 280 is movably disposed on the
longitudinal member 270. For example, the setting 280 can define a
bore 282 having the longitudinal member 270 disposed therethrough.
Besides being straight, the longitudinal member 270 can define a
radius of curvature (not shown), in which case the bore 282 can
also define an equivalent radius of curvature.
[0080] The sides of the setting 280 include magnetic elements 283
and 285. The magnetic elements 273 and 275 adjacent the ends of the
longitudinal member 270 magnetically repel the magnetic elements
283 and 285 on the setting 280 when in proximity. The opposing
polarities of the magnetic elements 272, 283, 275, and 285 allow
the setting 280 to move or oscillate along the longitudinal member
270 in response to external movements.
[0081] With the benefit of the present disclosure, one of ordinary
skill in the art of jewelry design will recognize that the present
invention is applicable to jewelry articles other than the
embodiment of rings and earrings explicitly illustrated herein. For
example, the present invention is applicable to other embodiments
of jewelry articles other than those explicitly illustrated herein,
including but not limited to bracelets, chokers, necklaces,
earrings, broaches, or pendants.
[0082] For example, instead of forming a composite ring, the
magnetically coupling body portions of the present invention could
form a composite, bracelet, a composite earring, or a composite
choker. For example, instead of forming a bezel for a ring, the
magnetically coupling body portions of the present invention could
form a pendant for use with a necklace, form a bezel of an earring,
or form a broach for use with a pin. One of ordinary skill in the
are would find it a routine undertaking to modify the illustrated
embodiments of the present invention to be used for these types of
jewelry articles. For example, instead of having a movable setting
on a ring or an earring, a bracelet or pendant can include a
movable setting as disclosed herein.
[0083] While the invention has been described with reference to the
preferred embodiments, obvious modifications and alterations are
possible by those skilled in the related art. Therefore, it is
intended that the invention include all such modifications and
alterations to the full extent that they come within the scope of
the following claims or the equivalents thereof.
* * * * *