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Patent Abstract
A method for making beaded jewelry is provided. The method utilizes
a megaphone shaped device having a small diameter first end and
a larger diameter second end. The circumference of the first end
is that of one part of the human body, such as a child's wrist.
The circumference of the second end is the size of another part
of the human body, such as an adult ankle. Markings on the girth
of the device sequentially graduate in circumference and define
graduated bracelet, anklet and other jewelry sizes. When one is
making a bracelet or other article of jewelry of strung beads, the
diameter of the beads affects the finished length of the article.
Use of the device takes into account the diameters of the beads
and thereby ensures that the finished item of beaded jewelry will
fit the intended wearer.
Patent Claims
I claim:
1. A measuring device for determining the finished length of beaded
jewelry comprising; a planar, flexible material member having an
arced top edge formed by a first radius, an arced bottom edge formed
by a second radius greater than the first radius, the arced bottom
edge longer than the arced top edge, and first and second side edges
of equal length; fastening means secured along one side edge for
securing the first and second side edges together in an overlapping
condition; and a plurality of mutually parallel arced lines inscribed
on a surface of the flexible material member, each arced line formed
by a third radius greater than the first radius and less than the
second radius, each arced line associated with a measuring indicia
adjacent thereto, whereby securing together overlapped first and
second side edges of the flexible material member by the fastening
means such that one end of each parallel arced line meets the other
end thereof, produces a hollow, conical structure useful for determining
the finished length of beaded jewelry.
2. The measuring device for determining the finished length of
beaded jewelry of claim 1, wherein the flexible material member
is transparent.
3. The measuring device for determining the finished length of
beaded jewelry of claim 2, wherein the inscribed lines and indicia
are on the surface of the flexible material member interior the
hollow, conical structure.
4. The measuring device for determining the finished length of
beaded jewelry of claim 1, wherein the fastening means permanently
secures the first and second side edges together in an overlapping
condition.
5. The measuring device for determining the finished length of
beaded jewelry of claim 1, wherein the fastening means reversibly
secures the first and second side edges together in an overlapping
condition.
6. The measuring device for determining the finished length of
beaded jewelry of claim 5, wherein the fastening means is selected
from the group hook and loop fastener tape, snaps, buttons, adhesive
tape, zippers and clips.
7. A measuring device to aid in the construction of beaded jewelry
in determining the finished length of said jewelry comprising: a
megaphone shaped body; said megaphone shaped body being constructed
of a light weight material; the surface displaying a plurality of
parallel lines each forming a circle of selected circumferences;
the circumference of each circle is identified by measuring indicia
adjacent to each line; said parallel lines being perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis of the device; said indicia sequentially graduate
in circumference from a small end to a large end of the megaphone
shaped body and define graduated jewelry sizes; the small end of
the device being no greater than 5 inches in diameter the large
end of the device being no less than 9 inches in diameter said indicia
indicate circumferential measurements in quarter of an inch increments
or their approximate metric equivalents.
8. The measuring device recited in claim 7 wherein the device is
a terraced megaphone shape; each step of the terraced megaphone
corresponding to a graduated jewelry size.
9. A measuring device to aid in the construction of beaded jewelry
in determining the finished length of said jewelry comprising: a
plurality of cylinders of graduated circumferences; said circumferences
being equivalent to the circumferences of various human body parts;
the surfaces of each cylinder displaying measuring indicia indicating
its circumference; the smallest of the cylinders having a circumference
approximately that of a child's wrist; the largest of the cylinders
having a circumference approximately that of an adult's thigh.
10. A measuring device to aid in the construction of beaded jewelry
in determining the finished length of said jewelry comprising: a
flat rectangular planar surface; two straight opposing short sides;
two straight opposing long sides; measurement indicia parallel to
the short edges indicating circumferential measurements of the device
as it is rolled in upon itself in jelly roll fashion; said surface
to be rolled into a cylinder by the user so that the outer short
edge is temporarily mated to the measurement indicia on the body
of the device to indicate the circumference of the rolled up device.
Patent Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS, IF ANY
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e)
of co-pending provisional application Ser. No. 60/496,719, filed
20 August, 2003. Application Ser. No. 60/496,719 is hereby incorporated
by reference.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX, IF ANY
[0003] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The present invention relates in general to a mandrel to
aid in the construction of beaded bracelets, ankle bracelets, necklaces,
head bands, thigh garters and upper arm bracelets.
[0006] 2. Background Information
[0007] In the jewelry arts, beads are strung on cords comprised
of, for example, monofilament, or jewelry wire. An interengaging
but releasable cooperating clasp pair is attached and the strand
of beads forms a closed loop to become an article of jewelry, such
as a necklace or bracelet.
[0008] In constructing an item of beaded jewelry, the beading wire
is held in one hand and beads are strung onto it with the other
hand. When enough beads have been strung, the clasp is attached
to the wire thereby forming a closed loop of strung beads. If the
finished item does not fit the intended wearer, the item must be
taken apart and re-made in a different size. This results in wasted
time and wasted materials.
[0009] To illustrate, when one makes a bracelet that measures 7"
in length while lying flat linearly, that same bracelet will not
fit around a 7" circumference wrist. This is owing to the fact
that the radius of the beads decreases the inside circumference
of the finished bracelet when clasped around the wrist. The beading
wire or thread, being threaded through the holes of the beads, is
not snug against the wrist, but rather is suspended through the
holes of the beads, a distance away from the wrist. This distance
is equal to the radius of the beads. So, a bracelet made entirely
with half inch diameter beads will increase the bracelets finished
diameter by the radius of the beads, {fraction (1/4)} inch, multiplied
by two, thus, {fraction (1/2)} inch. As the inside diameter of the
loop of beads is decreased, so too is its circumference.
[0010] The problem is more troublesome when making many different
bracelets with different size beads. The problem of making a piece
of beaded jewelry to fit the wearer is also complicated by the fact
that beads are available in numerous diameters. Using a printed
chart that correlates bead size to finished bracelet size is rendered
useless because jewelry is often made with a mix of bead sizes.
Without working out mathematical equations to determine how a change
in diameter affects the bracelet's circumference, one must have
the intended wearer present for repeated fittings. Further, the
beaded article of jewelry must be made with sufficient room for
comfortable muscle movement. The foregoing holds true for ankle
bracelets (anklets), tight necklaces (chokers), arm bands, thigh
garters and head bands.
[0011] As those familiar with the art of jewelry making will appreciate,
working out a mathematical equation is simply too tedious. And the
problem is further complicated by the fact that long cylindrical
beads will necessitate a longer bracelet whose length is virtually
impossible to determine by way of a mathematical equation.
[0012] Until now, the only alternative was to have the intended
wearer present for repeated fittings or to just guess at the correct
size and risk making an error.
[0013] With the use of the present invention a person merely has
to string some beads, hold the strand of beads around the mandrel
of the present invention and determine whether beads need to be
added or removed before finishing it off with a clasp.
[0014] Some examples of inventions used in sizing finished and
unfinished jewelry for which patents have been granted include the
following.
[0015] Round, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,353,513, describes a ring and
finger sizer. The device consists of a flat plastic device with
numerous holes through which a person will place his or her finger
to determine the ring size. One portion of the device is a flat
triangular shape over which a person will slip his or her ring to
determine the size of the ring.
[0016] C. A. Ford designed a tape measure to determine the appropriate
ring size for a finger in patent D60,612.
[0017] Measuring devices to aid in clothing design and tailoring
have been patented.
[0018] Fullalove, in U.S. Patent No. D467,619S and D444,818 describes
a dress maker's form.
[0019] Arthur designed a dress maker's form shown in U.S. Patent
No. D277,397. Farquharson also designed a dress form in U.S. Pat.
No. 1,221,522.
[0020] Nabarro in U.S. Pat. No. 6,640,460 describes a tape measure
device which allows a person to measure his or her torso without
the necessity of holding the tape measure. It allows one to keep
one's hands free to make necessary adjustments to a garment while
the tape measure is in place.
[0021] Devices available to jewelers for measuring finished items
of jewelry to determine their size include the following.
[0022] Shor International sells a "Bracelet and Ring Gauge"
consisting of a triangular piece of flat metal with size markings
on it for use in measuring flat stock for proper sizing of ring
and bracelet shanks. Shorlnternational.com/RingSizer.htm.
[0023] "Ring Size Sticks" are also sold by Shor International.
These ring mandrels are made of plastic or metal and are used in
determining the size of a finished ring. A jeweler often needs to
determine the size of a customer's ring in order to help the customer
purchase another ring of the same size. Shorlnternational.com/RingSizer.htm.
[0024] Devices available to jewelers for measuring the human body
to find appropriate jewelry size include the following.
[0025] Shor International sells a bracelet gauge which consists
of a metal version of a tape measure. On one end of the tape measure
is a pin which mates with holes along the circumference of the tape
measure. It is used to measure a person's wrist to determine bracelet
size. Shorlnternational.com/RingSizer.htm. Shor International Corporation,
20 Parkway West, Mt. Vernon, N.Y. 10552.
[0026] Shor International also sells finger gauges which consist
of a series of metal rings attached to a larger ring. A person puts
his or her finger in several of the rings to determine the appropriate
ring size. Shorlnternational.com/RingSizer.htm.
[0027] Widget Supply sells a bangle bracelet sizer similar to Shor
International's finger gauges. It consists of a series of metal
rings representing bracelet sizes. A person slips his or her hand
through the ring to find the appropriate bangle bracelet size. http://www.widgetsupply.com/miva/merchant.mvc?page=WS/PROD/jeweler-tool-o-
ther/SCA 3-JT132BS, Widget Supply, P.O. Box 3282, Albany, Oreg.
97321
[0028] Devices available to jewelers that act as a support for
jewelry during its manufacture include the following:
[0029] In the metal smithing art, mandrels have long been used
for making bangle bracelets of precious metal. Such mandrels are
typically made of a heavy material such as steel. Their purpose
is to support silver, gold, copper or brass material as it is hammered
into shape around the mandrel. Thus, a bracelet can be formed into
a "C" shape and slipped onto the wrist. Also, the metal
can be hammered into a closed circle or doughnut shape forming a
bangle bracelet that can slide over the hand and onto the wrist.
Similar mandrels are used for making bracelets of blown glass. Such
mandrels can be seen in Shor International's on line catalog at
http://shorinternational.com/MandrelRingBracelet.htm
[0030] Existing mandrels can be found only in sizes for bracelets
but not for anklets. This is likely owing to the fact that a solid
metal bracelet would be uncomfortable to wear considering the movement
of the ankle muscles and tendons.
[0031] Some of these metal bracelet mandrels are cone shaped and
some are in the shape of a terraced cone. The terraced cones typically
are sectioned into 3 or 4 wrist sizes for the purpose of making
3 or 4 different sized bangle style metal bracelets.
[0032] Existing bracelet mandrels are made of metal suitable for
hammering or applying heat, and are simply too clumsy and heavy
for a beading artist's purpose. http://shorinternational.com/MandrelRingBracelet.htm
[0033] Shor International also sells metal ring mandrels for use
in metal smithing. The purpose of such a mandrel is to aid in making
a ring of a specified size for the wearer. The ring mandrel serves
as a support for the precious metal being formed into a ring. It
also serves as a measuring device for the finished ring. http://shorinternational.com/Mand-
relRingBracelet.htm
[0034] Rings mandrels have markings showing the various ring sizes.
Ring sizes are not measured in either inches or centimeters. Rather,
these markings refer to a standardized system of ring sizing.
[0035] There does not exist a mandrel suitable for beaded articles
of jewelry. Making a beaded article of jewelry is different from
metal finger ring and metal bracelet manufacture in that a beaded
article of jewelry is made on a thread, cord or beading wire. A
finger ring is comprised of a solid piece of metal. The finger ring
must be hammered to size. A beaded article of jewelry on the other
hand is made on a stringing material that is held in the hands or
lies on a work surface. Unlike a finger ring or metal bracelet,
a beaded article of jewelry is not constructed around a mandrel
since hammering is not needed. The problem faced by the jewelry
designer is determining the finished circumference of a product
that is constructed in a linear fashion.
[0036] Metal bracelet mandrels only accommodate one to three different
sizes and have very few markings indicating size. This is owing
to the fact that a metal bracelet only needs to be made in a few
sizes; small, medium and large. The wearer of a metal bracelet can
bend the bracelet to fit the wrist. So, making a particular style
of metal bracelet in infinite sizes is not necessary.
[0037] Beaded bracelets on the other hand are not so easily adjusted.
The beaded bracelet must be made in the right size so that it will
comfortably fit on the wearer's wrist. Some people like a bracelet
to fit snugly while others prefer it to slide down onto the hand
a bit. So, while one person with a seven inch wrist will be comfortable
with a bracelet that fits a 7.5 inch circumference, another person
would prefer it to fit an 8 inch circumference. Similarly, a person
with a 7.25 inch wrist will have different needs entirely.
[0038] It is fashionable for children as young as four to wear
bracelets. Their wrists typically measure about 4 inches to 5 inches
in circumference. Pre-teens have a normal wrist measurement of about
6 inches and adults usually measure between 6.5 and 7 inches. It
is not at all unusual for an adult to have an 8 or 9 inch wrist.
Beaded ankle bracelets or "anklets" are also popular.
Adult ankles normally measure about 9 inches but can be as large
as 14 or 15 inches. The bracelet mandrels in the prior art do not
accommodate this range of sizes.
[0039] Also in the prior art are written charts which can be made
showing the number of beads needed to make a particular size bracelet.
For example, such a chart could show that one would need 44 4 mm
beads to make a 7 inch long strand. The difficulty with such a chart
is that any given bracelet, anklet or necklace may typically be
made with beads of several different sizes. Also, if one uses tube
shaped beads, the finished circumference of the bracelet will be
affected by not only the diameter of the bead, but also by the length
of the bead owing to the fact that long straight beads are surrounding
a round object such as a wrist.
[0040] Working out a mathematical equation using the "Pi R
squared" formula can be complicated and time consuming and
beyond the skill and patience of many bead artists. Because most
beads are made in other countries their sizes are always designated
by the metric system. Factoring in the conversion from metric to
English only adds another level of difficulty.
[0041] Heretofore, the jewelry artisan had to guess at the length
of a bracelet or anklet and repeatedly try it on the intended wearers
wrist or ankle. This resulted in frequent mistakes wherein a bracelet
was either too small or too large for the intended wearer. This
in turn resulted in a waste of beading materials and time. The problem
is amplified when the designer is making jewelry professionally
and in high volume. The problem is even greater when one is doing
business over the internet and the customer must mail the bracelet
back to the designer to be remade. Regardless of one's level of
experience in jewelry making, the sizing problem remains because
bracelets can be made in an infinite variety of sizes using an infinite
variety of shapes and sizes of beads.
[0042] Metal smithing mandrels serve as a support for metal. Ring
sizers serve to determine the size of a piece of jewelry that a
person brings to a jeweler to check its size. Other devices in the
prior art act as a tape measure to measure various parts of the
human body. But none of the devices available serve as a body form
to help the designer analyze the circumference of beaded jewelry
and facilitate the making of adjustments.
[0043] Unlike bracelet mandrels used by metal smiths, the beaded
jewelry mandrel of the present invention is light weight, accommodates
a broad range of sizes and in the preferred embodiment measurement
markings are made at one quarter of an inch intervals. Metal mandrels
used by metal smiths have only 3 different sizes of bracelets inscribed
on them. As mentioned above, metal bracelets are bendable and there
is not the same necessity for a broader range of sizes. Metal mandrels
are utterly useless to the beaded jewelry designer. Because metal
bracelets can be made in different widths, the working surface area
for each bracelet size must be greater, typically 2 inches or more.
So, in order to keep the metal mandrel small enough to place on
a metal smith's workbench, the mandrel can only accommodate a few
sizes. The working area on the beaded jewelry mandrel of the present
invention is relatively small since only a small surface area of
the beaded bracelet makes contact with the mandrel. Therefore, the
various size markings can be close together.
[0044] While existing mandrels for metal and glass work accommodate
only 3 or 4 sizes of jewelry, the mandrel of the present invention
in its preferred embodiment will accommodate every wrist and ankle
size from children's sizes to adult sizes.
[0045] Accordingly, there is a need in the jewelry making art for
a relatively simple, low cost apparatus that is useful for determining
the finished length of a beaded article of jewelry without the intended
wearer being present for repeated fittings. The need likewise exists
for a method of making not only bracelets, but also anklets, children's
bracelets and chokers. Because the beaded jewelry craft is by its
nature, very portable, the apparatus should be light weight and
compact for easy transportation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0046] The present invention is a megaphone shaped device with
parallel measurement indicia visible on its exterior. The measurement
indicia are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mandrel.
The parallel lines sequentially graduate in diametrical size and
define graduated jewelry sizes. The lines are identified as to jewelry
size by measurement indicia imprinted adjacent to the parallel line
indicia. The parallel line indicia designate the circumference of
the device at regular intervals, for example, every quarter of an
inch in circumference. The circumference of the device at its smaller
end is the size of one body part, for example, a child's wrist.
The circumference of the device at its larger end is the size of
another body part, for example, an adult's ankle.
[0047] The mandrel can be made of a transparent material with the
indicia imprinted on the interior surface and visible through the
exterior. Instead of a megaphone shape, the mandrel can also be
made in a cone shape, a terraced cone, a terraced megaphone, a series
of cylinders or a jelly roll shaped device that rolls upon itself.
Regardless of its shape, the purpose of the beaded jewelry mandrel
is to serve as a designers model for sizing the finished article
and avoid the need for the intended wearer to be present for repeated
fittings.
[0048] It is an object of the present invention to aid in the construction
of articles of beaded jewelry so that the diameter of the beads
can be taken into consideration in determining the finished length
of the article.
[0049] It is an object of the present invention to eliminate the
guess work of proper jewelry sizing for both experienced jewelry
artisans and newcomers to the craft.
[0050] It is an object of the present invention to facilitate the
construction of an article of beaded jewelry so that the size of
the chosen clasp can be taken into consideration in determining
the finished length of the item.
[0051] It is an object of the present invention to aid in the construction
of a bead bracelet, anklet, necklace, upper arm bracelet, thigh
garter or head band so that the proper size of the finished jewelry
can be determined at quarter of an inch intervals or the approximate
metric equivalent.
[0052] It is an object of the present invention to accommodate
and aid in the construction of the many different sizes of wrists,
ankles, arms, thighs, heads and necklaces.
[0053] It is an object of the present invention to provide a light
weight tool for jewelry sizing that can be easily transported with
the jewelry designees other beading tools and beads.
[0054] It is an object of the present invention to avoid wasting
time and materials making beaded articles of jewelry that do not
fit the intended wearer.
[0055] It is an object of the present invention to provide an economical
tool for beaded jewelry sizing.
[0056] It is an object of the present invention to provide a method
for determining the proper size of beaded jewelry without the necessity
of charts or mathematical calculations.
[0057] It is an object of the present invention to eliminate the
need to have the intended wearer present for proper fit of an article
of beaded jewelry.
[0058] It is an object of the present invention to provide a tool
and method of making an article of beaded jewelry so that the jewelry
artisan can easily allow for enough slack in the article suitable
for the intended wearer's needs.
[0059] It is an object of one embodiment of the present invention
that it be assembled by the consumer and that it be shipped from
the manufacturer or distributor as a flat item. This will result
in low shipping costs and small quantities of the product could
be shipped in envelopes, thereby reducing shipping costs further.
[0060] It is an object of the present invention to provide a tool
and method to aid in determining a finished circumference of a product
that is constructed in a linear fashion.
[0061] It is an object of the present invention to avoid repeated
assembly and disassembly of the article of jewelry in attempting
to find the appropriate finished length.
[0062] It is an object of the present invention to provide a tool
that is light weight for easy portability and inexpensive to ship
to the end user.
[0063] It is an object of the present invention to aid in high
volume production of articles of beaded jewelry.
[0064] These and other objects and advantages of the present invention
will be fully apparent from the following description, when taken
in connection with the annexed drawings.
[0065] A more detailed explanation of the invention is provided
in the following description and claims, and is illustrated in the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0066] This invention will be described more completely in the
following Detailed Description, when taken in conjunction with the
following drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like
elements throughout.
[0067] FIG. 1 is a side view of the mandrel 10 showing parallel
lines which are size markings. For the sake of clarity, only markings
at one inch intervals are shown and markings at quarter of an inch
interval are not shown.
[0068] FIG. 2 is a view of the mandrel before assembly showing
a flat piece of flexible material ready for assembly into the megaphone
shape. This view shows the size indicia at quarter of an inch intervals.
[0069] FIG. 3 is an elevational perspective view of the mandrel.
[0070] FIG. 4 is a cut away view of a person's wrist showing the
affect that bead radius has on bracelet diameter and circumference.
[0071] FIG. 5 is a cut away view of a bead showing its radius and
showing beading wire inserted into the bead.
[0072] FIG. 6 is an aerial view of a beaded bracelet lying in a
straight line on a flat surface.
[0073] FIG. 7 is a side view of the mandrel showing an assembled
bracelet fitted over the device for size adjustment.
[0074] FIG. 8 shows a megaphone shaped mandrel of unitary construction
according to another embodiment of the invention.
[0075] FIG. 9 shows a terraced megaphone shaped device according
to another embodiment of the invention.
[0076] FIG. 10 shows a series of cylinders of graduated diameters
according to another embodiment of the invention.
[0077] FIG. 11 shows a cylindrical jelly roll version of the mandrel
prior to assembly according to another embodiment of the invention.
[0078] FIG. 12 illustrates a cylindrical jelly roll version of
the mandrel assembled for use.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION OF THE INVENTION
[0079] Nomenclature
[0080] 10 Beaded Jewelry Mandrel
[0081] 12 Top Edge, First Radius
[0082] 14 Bottom Edge, Second Radius
[0083] 16R and 16L Straight Overlapping Edges
[0084] 18 Inscribed Parallel Arced Lines
[0085] 20 Buttons Holding the Device Together
[0086] 22L and 22R Through Holes Associated with Buttons
[0087] 24 Inscribed Parallel Arced Lines at one quarter inch intervals
[0088] 26 Measurement Indicia
[0089] 28 Inscribed Indicia Indicating Jewelry Items and Body Parts
[0090] 30 Human Wrist
[0091] 32 Bead Radius
[0092] 34 Bracelet Diameter
[0093] 36 First Bead
[0094] 38 Bracelet
[0095] 40 Second Bead
[0096] 42 Wrist Diameter
[0097] 46 Wrist Circumference
[0098] 48 Bracelet Circumference and Bracelet Length
[0099] 50 Beading Wire
[0100] 52 Bead Hole
[0101] 54 Short Opposing Side
[0102] 56 Short Opposing Side
[0103] 58 Long Opposing Side
[0104] 60 Long Opposing Side
[0105] 62 Arrow
[0106] 64 Inscribed Measuring Indicia
[0107] Construction
[0108] For convenience, the term "bracelet" is used generically
herein to include any article of beaded jewelry such as an ankle
bracelet, necklace, upper arm bracelet, thigh garter or head band
and will include both children's and adult sizes. The term "beading
wire" will refer to any type of thread, wire, cable, elastic
or cord used to string beads. The term "button" will refer
to buttons as well as snaps, clips, hook and loop fasteners, etc.
[0109] The mandrel 10 comprises generally a hollow megaphone shaped
device. More specifically, the present invention contemplates a
megaphone shaped mandrel for determining the size of beaded jewelry.
The mandrel comprises a megaphone shaped device having a top edge,
12, a bottom edge 14, an outer peripheral surface, having an opening
extending from the upper end to the lower end. The mandrel is constructed
from a flat planar sheet of flexible material stamped out using
a rule die. The megaphone shape of the mandrel is achieved by rolling
the material upon itself and attaching at a seam formed by the mating
of opposing ends 16L and 16R. In the preferred embodiment, the mandrel
is sized in conformity with the approximate size of a child's wrist
at its smallest end 12 and the approximate size of a large adult's
ankle at its larger end 14.
[0110] The mandrel 10 has a progressively increasing cross-sectional
circumference from the smaller end of the device 12 to the larger
end 14. If one were to take a plurality of cross-sections through
the mandrel perpendicular to a longitudinal axis extending from
one end of the mandrel to the other, each cross-section would be
a circular one. The diameters of the cross-sections would progressively
increase from one end to the other. Accordingly, a first end 12
is relatively narrow such that a circular cross-section through
first end 12 would have a small diameter. The mandrel 10 then progressively
tapers outwardly from the first end 12 until one reaches a second
end 14 of the mandrel 10. The second end 14 of the mandrel 10 is
relatively wide such that the mandrel 10 at its second end 14 would
have a diameter much larger than the diameter of the mandrel 10
at the first end 12 thereof. In the preferred embodiment, the circumference
of the mandrel 10 near its first end 12 is that of a child's wrist,
approximately 4 inches. In the preferred embodiment, the circumference
of the mandrel 10 near its second end 14 is that of a large adult's
ankle, approximately 14 inches. While the 4 inch to 14 inch configuration
is preferred, first end 12 of mandrel 10 could be smaller or larger
than 4 inches and second end 14 could be smaller or larger than
14 inches. For example, the first end 12 of the mandrel 10 could
accommodate an average adult wrist size of 7 inches while the second
end 14 could accommodate an average adult neck size of 16 inches.
The small end 12 could have a circumferential measurement suitable
for a human neck, while its large end 14 could be suitable for a
human thigh. A human neck typically measures between 14 inches and
18 inches in circumference. A human thigh can measure between 14
inches and 25 inches.
[0111] As shown, the mandrel 10 is approximately twelve and one
half inches tall. While twelve and one half inches is preferred,
the height can be more or less than twelve and one half inches.
The height of the mandrel can vary according to whether it will
be used for making jewelry other than bracelets at its small end
and anklets at its large end.
[0112] Inscribed parallel lines 18 are perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis of the mandrel. The parallel lines sequentially graduate in
circumferential size and define graduated jewelry sizes. For the
sake of clarity, only markings at one inch intervals are shown and
markings at quarter of an inch intervals are shown in another view.
The straight opposing end 16L is shown in phantom.
[0113] FIG. 1 shows buttons 20 holding the device together. Buttons
20 join opposing ends 16L and 16R by attaching through the through
holes 22L and 22R.
[0114] In a preferred alternative embodiment, adhesive tape rather
than buttons 20 is used to mate the opposing ends 16L and 16R. The
type of material used and its degree of rigidity will dictate whether
adhesive tape will function better than buttons or snaps. Some materials,
when buttoned together will buckle outward between the buttons and
thereby inadvertently increase the circumference of the mandrel
10 midway between each button.
[0115] FIG. 2 is an elevational view of the mandrel 10 before assembly
showing a planar surface comprised of a flexible material. The planar
surface shown in FIG. 2 is shown ready for assembly into the megaphone
shape illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 shows buttons 20 and their corresponding
through holes 22R and 22L The device is comprised of a planar, flexible
material having an arced top edge 12 formed by a first radius, an
arced bottom edge 14 formed by a second radius greater than the
first radius. Inscribed mutually parallel lines 18 represent third
and fourth radii and so on. The first side edge 16L is equal in
length to the second side edge 16R. The two straight opposing ends
16L and 16R mate upon assembly so that one side edge overlaps the
other side edge.
[0116] FIG. 2 shows a plurality of mutually parallel arced lines
18 and 24 inscribed on the surface of the flexible material member,
each of which are formed by a third and fourth radius and so on,
18 and 24 being greater than the first radius 12 and less than the
second radius 14. The arced inscribed lines represent circumferential
measurements at one inch intervals 18 and at quarter inch intervals
24. Measuring indicia 26 associated with the inscribed lines correspond
to possible wrist and ankle measurements. In the preferred embodiment,
the mandrel 10 will have markings at every one quarter of an inch
circumference interval 24 from four inches circumference to fourteen
inches in circumference. In an alternative preferred embodiment,
the mandrel would have circumferential markings at one centimeter
intervals or two centimeter intervals.
[0117] If one were to draw a line from the first end 12 to the
second end 14, the parallel lines marking the circumferential intervals
perpendicular to the drawn line, would be approximately one quarter
of an inch apart from each other. While {fraction (1/4)} inch is
preferred, the spacing of the measuring indicia can be more or less
than {fraction (1/4)} inch. However, spacing the measuring indicia
at smaller intervals will result in difficulty in reading jewelry
sizes as the indicia will be too close together to be useful. Spacing
the measuring indicia at larger intervals will result in a mandrel
with a narrower range of sizes and thus a narrower range of utility
for the jewelry artisan.
[0118] FIG. 2 also shows body size indicia 28 such as "toddler",
"bracelet" or "anklet", for easy reference.
In the preferred embodiment, body size indicia indicate average
wrist and ankle measurements for children and adults. Body measurement
indicia are preferred but not required. Body measurement indicia
in alternative configurations could include typical measurements
for arms, necks, thighs and heads.
[0119] Owing to the relatively triangular shape of the mandrel
as shown in FIG. 2 prior to assembly, the design can be placed head
to tail on large sheets of stock and printed several to a sheet.
Several mandrels can be die-cut at once thereby saving money and
minimizing wasted materials.
[0120] It is noted that the body of the device is sufficiently
stiff that the megaphone can stand of its own accord as shown in
FIG. 1 and of sufficient rigidity that when used by the jewelry
artisan it will hold its shape when configured into the megaphone
shape. The mandrel can consist of any material that can be repeatedly
bent without fracturing, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl,
nylon, rubber, leather, various impregnated or laminated fibrous
materials, various plasticized materials, cardboard, paper, etc.
[0121] The material can be transparent with the measuring indicia
printed on the inside of the device, thereby preventing the markings
from wearing off. The material can be opaque with the measuring
indicia printed on the exterior surface.
[0122] The straight opposing sides 16L and 16R may be joined by
any means suiting the material of which the mandrel is comprised.
Adhesive tape or repositionable adhesive tape may be used. A zipper,
button or snap system may be utilized providing that the circumference
of the assembled mandrel remains true to the measurement markings
thereon.
[0123] FIG. 3 illustrates an elevational perspective of mandrel
10.
[0124] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a person's wrist 30
showing the affect that bead radius 32 has on bracelet diameter
34. Bracelet diameter 34 is defined as the diameter from the center
axis of a first bead 36 on the bracelet 38 through the wrist and
ending at the center axis of another bead 40 directly opposite the
first bead 36. Which two beads are used in determining bracelet
diameter is irrelevant providing that bead 36 and bead 40 are 180
degrees apart in the circle defined by the bracelet as it is worn
around the wrist. The diameter 42 of the wrist 30 will be smaller
than the diameter 34 of the bracelet 38 as worn.
[0125] In like fashion, the circumference 46 of the wrist will
be smaller than the circumference 48 of the wire 50 on which the
beads are strung.
[0126] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a bead 40 showing in
phantom the hole 52 through its center. The beading wire 50 is shown
passing through the hole 52 of the bead 40. The radius 32 of the
bead 40 is shown as the distance from the center of the bead's hole
to its exterior surface.
[0127] FIG. 6 is an elevational view of a bracelet 38 laid in a
straight line on a flat surface. The length 48 of the bracelet lying
flat is shown. The length 48 of the bracelet 38 will equal the bracelet
circumference 48 shown on FIG. 4.
[0128] If, for example, one wishes to make a beaded bracelet that
will fit a 7" circumference 46 wrist, one might mistakenly
make a bracelet that is 7 inches in length 48. If the bracelet is
clasped to form a circle, the wire 50 running through the beads
will form a circle 48 that is 7 inches in circumference. The radius
of this circle will be 7 inches divided by 2 Pi, or 1.11 inches.
If the beads are, for example, one half inch in diameter, their
radius 32 is one quarter inch. The radius of the circle or wrist
around which the beads will circumscribe will be reduced by the
radius of the bead. Thus, the radius of this smaller circle or wrist
will be 1.11 inches minus 0.25 inch which equals 0.86 inches. The
circumference of this smaller circle or wrist will be 2 multiplied
by Pi multiplied by 0.86 inches which equals 5.4 inches. The result
is that a 7 inch long bracelet made with half inch diameter beads
will fit a 5.4 inch wrist but not a 7 inch wrist.
[0129] FIG. 7 is a side view of the mandrel 10 showing an assembled
bracelet 38 fitted over the device for size adjustment.
[0130] FIG. 8 shows a megaphone shaped mandrel of unitary construction
according to another embodiment of the invention. It is envisioned
that the mandrel can be of unitary construction requiring no assembly
by the end user. The preformed megaphone shape can be hollow or
solid and constructed of virtually any light weight material that
can maintain its shape. A light weight material such as plastic
or wood is preferred for its portability. The small end of the mandrel
will have a circumference no greater than 5 inches, approximately
1.6 inches diameter. The large end will have a circumference no
smaller than nine inches, approximately 2.9 inches diameter. As
with the preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 through 7, the mandrel
of unitary construction shown in FIG. 8 has inscribed parallel lines
in sequentially graduated circumferences. The parallel lines sequentially
graduate in circumference from the small end to the large end and
define graduated jewelry sizes. The indicia indicate circumferential
measurements in quarter of an inch increments or their approximate
metric equivalents.
[0131] FIG. 9 shows a terraced megaphone shaped device according
to another embodiment of the invention. The terraced steps correspond
to sequentially graduated jewelry sizes. The jewelry designer chooses
an appropriate circumferential marking to determine the size of
the finished article of beaded jewelry.
[0132] FIG. 10 shows a series of cylinders according to another
embodiment of the invention. The cylinders are sequentially graduated
in circumference representing an array of jewelry sizes. Measurement
indicia would be imprinted on each cylinder indicating its exterior
circumference. The jewelry designer would choose the cylinder with
the same circumference as the wrist of the intended wearer. The
appropriate cylinder will then aid the designer in judging the size
of the beaded jewelry.
[0133] FIG. 11 shows another version of the invention which is
comprised of a rectangular planar surface comprising two opposing
short sides 54 and 56 and two transverse longer sides 58 and 60.
The device is curled upon itself jelly roll fashion starting with
side 54 so that side 56 overlaps side 54. A pointing indicia 62
such as an arrow, is aligned with one of the measuring indicia 64
as shown in FIG. 12. The device is then fixed in place using adhesive
tape or other suitable means. The jewelry designer then uses the
resulting cylinder to determine the size of the article of beaded
jewelry.
[0134] FIG. 12 shows the jelly roll version of the mandrel in its
rolled up condition.
[0135] In every version of the beaded jewelry mandrel, the mandrel
serves as a form substituting for the intended wearer. Perfect fit
is guaranteed without the ultimate wearer of the item being present
for fittings.
[0136] With respect to the above description then, it is to be
realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts
of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape,
form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed
readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all
equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and
described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by
the present invention.
[0137] Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only
of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications
and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is
not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and
operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications
and equivalents may be resorted to, falling with the scope of the
invention.
How to use the Preferred Embodiment
[0138] The following description, while referring to bracelet construction,
applies generally to the construction of other articles of beaded
jewelry including anklets, necklaces, chokers, thigh garters, head
bands and arm bracelets.
[0139] The mandrel is utilized for bracelet assembly generally
as follows:
[0140] The user joins the straight edges 16R and 16L together such
that 16R overlaps 16L and the through holes (if provided) 22R and
22L line up with each other. The user then pushes the buttons 20
into through holes 22R and 22L holding the two corresponding
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