WO1999051119A1

WO1999051119A1 - Band-shaped object, especially a bracelet

Info

Publication number: WO1999051119A1
Application number: PCT/AT1999/000083
Authority: WO
Inventors: Hermann Hirsch
Original assignee: Hirsch Armbänder Gesellschaft Mbh
Priority date: 1998-04-01
Filing date: 1999-03-29
Publication date: 1999-10-14
Also published as: AU3017799A

Abstract

The invention relates to a band-shaped object (1), especially a bracelet, a bracelet which is to be worn as jewelry, or a watchband, which comprises at least one holding means (2) that passes through the same, and at least one individual element (3 to 7) held thereon. The bracelet also has end areas (9, 10) which are interspaced in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet. In addition, the bracelet has flat sides which extend between said end areas, and small sides which are arranged between the flat sides. Said flat sides form a visible side (11) and an application side (12). The individual element (3 to 7) comprises at least one recess (13) for accommodating the holding means (2). The holding means (2) forms a plurality of individual elements (3 to 7) which are arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the holding means. The individual elements (3 to 7) are connected to the holding means (2) by means of positive locking, especially provided by a coupling device, or by being formed on at least in areas.

Description

- 1 -

Band-shaped object, in particular a bracelet

The invention relates to a band-shaped object, in particular a bracelet, jewelry band, watch band, a single element therefor and a method for producing the band-shaped object, as described in claims 1, 47 and 52.

Band-shaped objects, in particular watch bands, are already known, e.g. according to DE 38 09 468 AI, in which, on a holding means, which is designed as a supporting element, such as a cord, cord or chain, different individual elements are detachably fastened as needed via a coupling device. For this purpose, the holding means is passed through openings or recesses in the individual element and, accordingly, only a single individual element is arranged, since otherwise all the individual elements would have to be removed and replaced on the holding means when changing.

Furthermore, according to EP 0 198 279 B1, it is already known to produce a fantasy article with at least one band in a generally elongated form, which consists of a first thermoplastic which forms a core. On this core, a decorative element surrounding this part of its length is arranged. This decorative element is firmly connected to the core and consists of a second thermoplastic. The disadvantage here is that the production is relatively complex and only a design-like design can be produced for each fantasy article. In addition, only synthetic materials can be used for the production of such fancy articles.

Another embodiment variant of a bracelet with different individual elements that can be inserted into a holding means is known from DE 296 06 625 U1, it being disadvantageous that a complex hinge strap construction is required for the production of a holding means.

The present invention has for its object to provide a band-shaped object that can be easily and quickly adapted to different design requirements and can be produced in different configurations as similarly and inexpensively as possible.

Furthermore, it is already known, according to EP 0 339 123 B1, a bracelet, in particular - 2 -

To create a watch strap, with an interchangeably arranged leather strap, which protrudes with its edge sections into U-shaped brackets of the bracelet. The brackets are connected to one another by webs, the brackets being subdivided into individual members which are connected to one another by joints. These joints are formed by tabs, which are fastened on the inside of the bracelet to the central webs of two adjacent links, each with their two ends. As a result, a flexible bracelet, in particular a watch strap, has been created, which can be adapted to different tastes in terms of shape and color through the interchangeability of an essential component which gives the external image a characteristic embossing.

This object of the invention is achieved by the features in claim 1. It is advantageous in this solution due to the features of claim 1 that articulation of the object is also possible when a large number of individual elements with any composition and structure are arranged one behind the other, and objects with different designs can therefore be produced quickly, even on curved surfaces, such as the forearm, can be adjusted very well. In addition, any materials can be used both for the holding means and for the individual elements and can be easily adapted to the allergic reactions of different groups of people. However, this also makes it possible to combine a wide variety of materials in the area of such an object.

Further advantageous developments are characterized in claims 2 to 46.

A form of training that independently solves the invention is also described in claim 47. The advantage of such individual elements lies in the fact that an optional connection of different individual elements is possible and these also allow an arrangement on a flexibly deformable holding element, such as a jewelry band or watch band.

Advantageous further developments are characterized in claims 48 to 51.

In an advantageous manner, the object of the present invention can also be achieved by the measures according to claim 52.

Further advantageous procedures are described in claims 53 to 57. - 3 -

The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings.

Show it:

Figure 1 shows a part of the band-shaped object according to the invention, in plan view and extended position.

FIG. 2 shows a part of the band-shaped object according to FIG. 1, cut in a side view and enlarged view, according to the arrows II-II in FIG. 1;

3 shows the part of the band-shaped object according to FIG. 2, but with a curved course, in a side view;

4 shows an end view of the band-shaped object according to FIGS. 1 to 3, cut according to lines IV-IV in FIG. 2;

5 shows a part of the band-shaped object in the stretched position and side view, cut along lines II-II in FIG. 1 with the individual element removed;

6 shows a single element of the band-shaped object according to FIGS. 1 to 5 in a side view and in an enlarged, simplified representation;

7 shows another embodiment variant of a band-shaped object according to the invention, cut in a side view and simplified, more schematic

Presentation.

As an introduction, it should be noted that in the differently described embodiments, the same parts are provided with the same reference numerals or the same component names, and the disclosures contained in the entire description can be applied analogously to the same parts with the same reference numerals or the same component names. The position information selected in the description, such as, for example, top, bottom, side, etc., are based on the figure described and illustrated immediately, and are to be transferred accordingly to the new position in the event of a change in position. Furthermore, individual features or combinations of features from the different exemplary embodiments shown and described can also represent independent, inventive or inventive solutions. 1 to 6, part of a band-shaped object 1 is shown, which can form, for example, a watch band, bracelet, jewelry band or the like. This consists of a holding means 2 or holding element and several individual elements 3 to 7 arranged one behind the other on the holding means 2. Especially when the band-shaped object 1 is to transmit forces in its longitudinal direction - arrow 8 - it is advantageous if the object 1 is designed to be tensile. The material from which the holding means 2 can be produced can be plastic and / or rubber and / or rubber and / or latex. Silicones and / or silicone rubbers can also be used as an example of the group of elastomers.

As can best be seen from FIG. 1, the object 1 has in its longitudinal direction or longitudinal extension - according to arrow 8 - end regions 9, 10 spaced apart from one another, and flat sides extending between them, which form a view side 11 and a support side 12. The holding means 2 preferably has a deformable, flexurally elastic configuration in a plane running or oriented in the direction thereof along its longitudinal extent - according to arrow 8 - and perpendicular to the view side 11 or support side 12 and consists, for example, of a deformable, flexurally elastic or limp plastic. and / or rubber and / or rubber and / or silicone rubber and / or silicone part, which is preferably continuous. Each of the individual elements 3 to 7 is provided with at least one recess 13 for receiving or passing through the holding means 2.

The holding means 2 is designed to arrange several individual elements 3 to 7 of any number arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction thereof - arrow 8. The individual elements 3 to 7 can be arranged directly adjacent to one another and optionally overlapping or overlapping one another at least in regions on the holding means 2. To hold the individual elements 3 to 7 on the holding means 2, these are connected to one another via a positive connection, in particular via a coupling device. However, it would also be possible to connect at least in regions by means of a molding process between the holding means 2 and the individual elements 3 to 7.

In the present exemplary embodiment - as can be seen from an overview of FIGS. 2 to 5 - the individual elements 3 to 7 are held on the holding means 2 in that the holding means 2 is at a desired distance from one another in the longitudinal direction of the Object 1 guide chambers 14 are formed or arranged. These guide chambers 14 serve to accommodate guide - 5 -

sets 15 of the individual elements 3 to 7.

These guide chambers 14 and optionally guide extensions 15 are arranged in guide parts 16 to 19 or formed by them, which are connected to one another via bending regions 20, 21. These bending areas 20, 21 are oriented at right angles to the longitudinal extent of the object 1 and parallel to the support side 12 and can be arranged or formed in their position or arrangement in the most varied areas of the holding means 2 in the direction of the thickness or thickness. Thus, the bending area 20, 21 can be arranged in the area of the support side 12 of the object 1, in or within the holding means 2, preferably in the area of a neutral fiber, which is indicated schematically by a dash-dotted line. It has proven to be advantageous if the bending areas 20, 21 are arranged in the overlap area between the directly adjacent or successively arranged individual elements 3 to 7.

The bending areas 20, 21 can in turn be designed in a wide variety of ways and realized by recesses and / or material weakening and / or material tapering in the area of the support side 12 in the holding means 2 and / or by a film hinge in the holding means 2. In this case, the film hinge can be formed by at least one region with higher density, which is arranged in regions in the holding means 2, compared to further regions with lower density, which are distant from it.

Each of the guide parts 16 to 19 consists of a leg 22 aligned approximately parallel to the support side 12 and horizontally shown in the illustration and a leg 23 which is angled and optionally oriented vertically to the support side 12. The individual guide parts 16 to 19 arranged one behind the other are shown in FIG bending regions 20, 21 arranged therebetween are connected to one another in an articulated manner and thus form the holding means 2 when viewed in the longitudinal direction. The horizontal leg 22 is arranged between the guide extension 15 and a bottom wall 24 of the individual elements 3 to 7. The angular or vertical leg 23 separates the individual guide chambers 14 which are arranged in the successive guide parts 16 to 19 or are formed by these.

The guide chamber 14 is now delimited by a bearing surface 25 of the angular or vertical leg 23 of the guide part 17 assigned to it, by a base area 26 which is formed by the surface of the horizontal leg 22 assigned to the guide chamber 14, and a support surface 27 which through the win- - 6 -

keligen or vertical leg 23 of the guide member 17 in the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 - downstream guide member 18 is formed. Thus, two angled or vertical limbs 23 connected to one another via the horizontal limb 22 delimit the guide chamber 14. The contact surface 25 of the limb 23 faces the individual element held on the further guide part of the holding element 2 that follows in the longitudinal direction.

Opposite the support surface 25 is a guide surface 28 of the guide extension 15, the base surface 26 has an end surface 29 and the support surface 27 a support surface 30, the support surface 25 and / or the guide surface 28 being curved. Each of the angled or vertical legs 23 of the guide parts 16 to 19 has, on the side facing away from the guide chamber 14 assigned to it, the support surface 27 which interacts with the contact surface 30 assigned to it and formed on the individual element 3 to 7, the respective individual element 3 to 7 is held on the corresponding guide part 16 to 19 and the support surface 27 thus faces the guide chamber 14 immediately upstream in the longitudinal direction.

The course of the preferably concave bearing surface 25 of the guide chamber 14 and the preferably convex guide surface 28 of the guide extension 15 are matched to one another such that they lie against one another with almost no play. Above all, the convex or concave curvature of the guide surface 28 and the support surface 25 is preferably designed such that they run parallel to an envelope curve, the center of which in a pivot axis 32 running in the plane 31 receiving the support side 12 transverse to the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 Forms the center of the curvature with a preferably constant radius 33 selected. The center of curvature of the support surface 25 and the guide surface 28 is preferably arranged congruently in the respective bending region 20, 21. The support surface 25 and the guide surface 28 can also each be formed as part of a cylinder surface or spherical surface. If a spherical surface is selected, it is advantageous if its center of curvature is congruent with the bending area 20, 21 and preferably centered on the width of the object 1. Furthermore, it is also possible, regardless of this, that the radius 33 has a different size starting from the pivot axis 32 towards the support surface 25 or guide surface 28 over the length of the pivot axis 32 in the direction thereof, on the one hand providing better guidance during the pivoting movement and on the other hand the greatest possible design diversity for object 1 can be achieved. The fact that the guide extension 15 protrudes over a plane 34 oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction - arrow 8-, in which the pivot axis 32 of the bending region 21 lies, counter to the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 - in the direction of the upstream guide extension 15 of the individual element 4 to the fact that when the object 1 is deformed into a concave course of the support side 12 - as can be seen in FIG. 3 - the individual guide extensions 15 can shift relative to the individual guide chambers 14 assigned to them and thus depending on the degree or extent the deformation of the guide extension 15 more or less emerges from the guide chamber 14 by the guide surface 28 pivots relative to the bearing surface 25. The individual elements 3 to 7 are carried along via the bottom wall 24 of the same, the forward and backward movement of the guide extension 15 out of the guide chamber 14 and back into the stop position via the angular or vertical legs 23 of the individual guide parts 16 to 19 , in which the end face 29 of the guide extension 28 abuts the base surface 26 of the guide chamber 14 is controlled.

As a result of the overlap of the individual successive individual elements 3 to 7 by a distance 35 in the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 - regardless of the size or the extent of the pivoting of the individual guide parts 16 to 19 relative to one another, a respective gap 36 with a width 37 remains between the individual elements 3 to 7 in the region of the view side 11. This width 37 of the gap 36 depends, on the one hand, as already described above, on the extent of the coverage of the individual, successive individual elements 3 to 7 and, on the other hand, on the design and configuration of the individual individual elements 3 to 7 from. It is essential, however, that when the individual elements 3 to 7 are pivoted or adjusted relative to the angled or vertical legs 23 of the holding means 2, the visible surface area of that surface 38 of the angled or vertical leg 23 which faces the view side 11 , not changed in size, so it is kept constant.

3 shows that the guide surface 28 of the guide extension 15 slides along the support surface 25 of the angled or vertical leg 23, the center or the center of the pivoting movement being arranged in the bending region 21 in the region of the pivot axis 32 and this leads to an enlargement or extension of the view side 11 compared to the support side 12. Furthermore, starting from the pivot axis 32 of the bending region 21, a plane 39 running transversely to the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 - was shown. which runs in the area of the support side 12 through the swivel axis 32 and in the area of the view side 11 through the edge area of the surface 38 which faces the guide surface 28 of the guide extension 15.

A further plane 40 is entered in the two FIGS. 2 and 3, which likewise in the area of the support side 12 by the pivot axis 32 in the bending area 21 and in the area of the view side 11 by the contact area between the surface 38 of the angled or vertical leg 23 and the guide surface 28 extends. Due to the fact that the object 1 is shown in its extended position in FIG. 2, these two planes 39, 40 are congruent here, whereas in FIG. 3, due to the relative pivoting of the individual elements 3 to 7 relative to one another the holding means 2 assumes the level 39 is stationary and the further level 40 is pivoted relative to the latter by a pivot angle 41, the pivoted position being shown. This pivot angle 41 corresponds approximately to the angle between which the base surface 26 of the horizontal leg 22 and the end surface 29 of the guide extension 15 facing it form between them.

In FIG. 3, in the area of the holding means 2, an approximately neutral fiber 42 was inserted for the bend, which runs approximately through the pivot axes 32 of the bend areas 20, 21. In the stretched position, as shown in FIG. 2, the neutral fiber 42 runs approximately parallel to the view side 11 or support side 12, the radius in this case having the value infinite. In the event of a curvature of the object 1, the individual elements 3 to 7 are pivoted with respect to the angled or vertical legs 23 of the holding means 2, the neutral fiber 42 having a curvature 43 depending on the extent of the pivoting. If, as shown here, there is a uniform pivoting of the individual elements 3 to 7 with respect to the angled or vertical legs 23 of the holding means 2, the curvature 43 corresponds to a circle or circular arc, the relationship being that the larger the pivot angle 41, the smaller the radius of the curvature 43. Since such a uniform curvature is normally not to be expected, the choice of the individual bending areas 20, 21 and the extent or size of the individual elements 3 to 7 in the longitudinal direction or longitudinal extent - arrow 8 - of the object 1, the bending or swiveling behavior of the entire object 1 can be easily varied. It is essential that the guide surface 28 of the guide extension 15 has the same radius 33 of curvature as the bearing surface 25 of the angled or vertical legs 23 assigned to it, over the maximum permissible pivoting angle, i.e. over the extent of the largest possible pivoting angle 41. - 9 -

The further surface course or the surface design of a surface area 44 starting from the further plane 40 up to the immediately following surface 38 of the angled or vertical leg 23 can be chosen freely depending on the design request.

As can also be seen from the illustration in FIG. 3, only the holding means 2 is deformed in the bending regions 20, 21, the position of the two legs 22, 23 remaining almost unchanged in relation to the individual elements 3 to 7 assigned to them . Due to the pivoting of the individual elements 3 to 7 relative to the holding means 2, the surface of the

The guide surface 28 of the guide extension 15 is visible to the viewer in the region of the view side 11, that surface portion of the surface 38 of the angled or vertical leg 23 remaining unchanged.

In order to achieve a stable connection or a hard-wearing object 1, it can prove to be advantageous if, as is shown in FIG. 2 for the individual element 5, at least one attachment 45 on a top wall below the surface 38 in the area of the gap 36 46 of the individual element 3 to 7 is arranged, which in this embodiment is arranged in the direction of the further individual element 3 to 7 immediately following it in the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 - arranged on it. The shape and number of lugs 45 can be freely selected and depends on the material used for the holding means 2 or the individual elements 3 to 7. In the area of the extension 45, it is of course also possible to arrange at least one opening or recess in the extension through which the holding means 2 passes, as a result of which an even more intensive and firm adhesion of the same to the individual element can take place. However, a plurality of lugs 45 with the most varied openings or recesses can also be arranged on the individual element.

4 shows the individual element 5 of the object 1, which is formed from the bottom wall 24 facing the support side 12, the top wall 46 facing the view side 11 and arranged in the region of narrow sides 47, 48 and connecting side walls 49, 50 . The bottom wall 24, the top wall 46 and the side walls 49, 50 delimit the recess 13, which serves to receive or hold the holding means 2 and is also penetrated by it.

In the area of the support side 12, it has proven to be advantageous if one of these - 10 -

facing outer surface 51 of the individual elements 3 to 7 forms an area proportion between 60% and 99%, preferably between 70% and 95% of the total area of the object 1, which faces the support side 12. Depending on the proportion of the area of the outer surface 51 of the individual elements 3 to 7, it can be varied within the specified limits compared to that proportion of the area of the holding means 2 in the region of the bending areas 20, 21, this variation also being dependent on the material of the individual elements 3 to 7 used. The proportion of the area of the outer surface 51 of the individual elements 3 to 7 can also be smaller, for example, between 10% and 80%, preferably between 30% and 60%, of the total area of the object 1. The individual elements 3 to 7 can be made of metal and / or glass and / or ceramic and / or stone and / or plastic and / or artificial marble or the like. and of course freely chosen and combined with one another as desired.

In this exemplary embodiment shown and described here, only one recess is arranged within the individual elements 3 to 7, it being possible, of course, to also arrange several within the same. Of course, it is also only possible to enclose or arrange the individual element 3 to 7 on the holding means 2 in certain areas. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the angular or vertical leg 23 of the guide parts 16 to 19 is assigned to at least part of the top and / or bottom wall 46, 24 of an individual element 3 to 7. Furthermore, the horizontal leg 22 of the guide part 16 to 19 has a base surface 52 which is oriented parallel to the support side 12 and which is designed to bear against an inner surface 53 of the base wall 24 of one of the individual elements 3 to 7 assigned to it. This abutment of the two surfaces on one another is preferably carried out over the full area and in order to be able to carry out a secure pivoting movement during the bending process of the object 1 in the bending areas 20, 21, thereby also ensuring a secured relative movement between the individual elements 3 to 7 and the holding means 2, in particular the angular or vertical legs 23 in the area of the bearing surface 25.

In the exemplary embodiment shown here, each of the individual guide chambers 14 for the guide extensions 15 is delimited by one of the guide parts 16 to 19. If one now looks at the guide chamber 14 between the guide part 17 and 18, this is indicated by the horizontal leg 22 and the angled or vertical leg 23 of the guide part 17 and the further angular or vertical one immediately downstream in the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 Limbs 23 of the further guide part 18 limited. Furthermore, the horizontal leg 22, as described - 11 -

already described above, the bottom surface 52, which on the side facing away from it, which has the guide chamber 14 between the support surface 25 of the guide part 17 and the support surface 27 of the further longitudinal guide member 18 immediately downstream in the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 - 26. The base surface 26 is preferably aligned parallel to the base surface 52 of the horizontal leg 22. Depending on the arrangement and orientation of the mutually facing base surface 26 and end surface 29 of the guide extension 15, the base surface 26 serves in the extended position of the object 1 or when resting on a horizontal plane as a stop for the end surface 29 of the guide extension 15.

In order to prevent the guide extension 15 from coming out of the guide chamber 14, it is advantageous to arrange a swivel angle limitation between the individual individual elements 3 to 7 and / or between them and the holding means 2. In any case, it must be ensured that the largest possible pivot angle 41 is in any case smaller that angle 54 which is formed between the base surface 26 of the horizontal leg 22 and the plane 39 extending through the pivot axis 32 and the edge of the surface 38.

In order to be able to position and / or hold the individual elements 3 to 7 in a molding tool or an injection mold (not shown) for the manufacturing process of the object 1, each of the individual elements 3 to 7 can have at least one positioning element in the area of the outer surface 51 of the bottom wall 24 55 assigned, which, for example is designed as a self-centering cone or cone-shaped centering opening. The positioning element or elements 55 can of course also be arranged in the region of the narrow sides 47, 48 and / or also in the region of the top wall 46, the configuration described above representing only one of many possibilities for this. Instead of openings or recesses, projections or lugs are also possible. In order to prevent the material for the holding means 2 from sticking to the material to be introduced into the molding tool or injection mold, it is advantageous to provide some of the surfaces of the individual elements 3 to 7, preferably the guide surface 28 and / or the end surface 29, with a release agent coating. This application of the release agent coating serves to ensure that the introduced material is securely prevented from adhering to the designated positions of the individual elements 3 to 7.

To limit the swivel angle 41, it is also possible to place at least one stop element between the immediately adjacent or one behind the other - 12 -

to arrange individual elements 3 to 7. Furthermore, the horizontal legs 22 of directly adjacent guide parts 16 to 19 and / or the bottom wall 24 of the individual elements 3 to 7 can also be provided with stop elements for limiting the pivoting angle of the relative pivoting movement of directly adjacent individual elements 3 to 7 or the horizontal legs 22 his.

The object 1 according to the invention can be produced as described below. It is provided that the individual elements 3 to 7 in a mold, not shown here, such as an injection mold, in the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 - are arranged directly one behind the other and the total length of the object 1 is determined depending on the number of individual elements 3 to 7 inserted into the mold. Of course, it is also possible in the region of the end regions 9, 10, also not shown here, to form closure elements, end pieces and various different connecting pieces or other parts with the object 1, for example to hold a wide variety of objects on the object 1 or the two End areas 9, 10 to be able to connect directly to one another without the interposition of very different components. For the sake of clarity, such parts have not been shown, but it is of course possible to freely select and use any components from the known prior art, depending on the application.

As already briefly described above, the individual individual elements 3 to 7 are arranged one behind the other in the direction of the longitudinal extent - arrow 8 - of the object 1 with the longitudinal axes of their receptacles or recesses 13, the individual elements 3 to 7 being positioned within the mold cavity positioning elements 55 described above can be used. When designing the mold cavity of the injection mold, on the one hand, the most varied spatial shapes of the individual elements 3 to 7 to be positioned in the mold cavity must be taken into account and, furthermore, mold surfaces must be provided in such a way that intermediate spaces between the individual elements 3 to 7 are closed by these mold surfaces. The gaps form in the embodiment shown here in the area of the support side 12 between the bottom walls 24, in the area of the bending areas 20, 21 and in the area of the view side 11 in the area of the surface 38 of the angled or horizontal leg 23 to be formed. If the individual individual elements 3 to 7 are positioned within the mold and the mold halves are closed, a continuous cavity is formed in the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 - of the object 1, which on the one hand through the recesses 13 and other - 13 -

is delimited by the mold surfaces of the injection mold and then this cavity is filled with the plasticized, elastic, deformable material to form the holding means 2. After the holding means 2, which is preferably made of plastic, has hardened, the individual elements 3 to 7 form a unit with the holding means 2, whereby the object 1 can be removed from the mold as a finished component. To prevent the introduced material from sticking, it is advantageous if the inner surfaces of the recesses 13 or those parts of the surface of the individual elements 3 to 7 which come into contact with the material to be introduced are coated with a release agent to prevent sticking. This is also advantageous for the surfaces of the guide extensions 15, which are formed with the material of the holding means 2 to form the guide chambers 14, so as to also prevent the introduced material from adhering to these surfaces.

FIG. 7 shows a further embodiment variant of the band-shaped object 1 according to the invention, cut in a side view and a simplified, schematic illustration, which may possibly represent an independent solution according to the invention and in the description the same reference numerals for the same parts as in the preceding ones 1 to 6 are used.

The enlarged partial area of the object 1 shown here shows that the choice of the spatial shape of the individual elements 3 to 7 and, in connection therewith, the holding means 2 can be chosen in a wide variety of ways and can be designed in a wide variety of ways depending on the intended use or design request. The individual elements 3 to 7 are again arranged on the holding means 2 or the guide parts 16 to 19 forming this. The holding means 2 in turn passes through the recesses 13 of the individual elements 3 to 7 and is preferably formed continuously between the end regions 9, 10. The individual guide parts 16 to 19 in turn each consist of the horizontal leg 22 and the leg 23 which is angled or vertically oriented thereto and are in turn connected to one another in the region of the support side 12 via the bending areas 20, 21, which thus provide the articulated connection and formation of the object 1 ensure. In the longitudinal direction or longitudinal extension - arrow 8 - of the object 1, viewed within the holding means 2 in the direction of the thickness, runs the schematically indicated neutral fiber 42, in which the pivot axes 32 for the pivoting of the individual elements 3 to 7 in turn also in the bending areas 20, 21 opposite the guide parts 16 to 19, in particular the angled or vertical legs 23, are arranged. - 14 -

The detailed description of the individual surfaces facing one another between the guide extension 15 and the guide chamber 14 and further details is omitted due to unnecessary repetitions and the description of FIGS. 1 to 6 is referred to or referred to. It is again important that the radius 33, starting from the pivot axis 32, between the guide extensions 15 and the angled or vertical legs 23 of the guide parts 16 to 19 to their contact areas is approximately the same, so as to be able to carry out a secure pivoting .

Furthermore, it is also possible to additionally arrange in the holding means 2, in particular the horizontal legs 22, at least one reinforcing element 56 which extends over the longitudinal extent or in the longitudinal direction - arrow 8 - of the object 1. The reinforcing element 56 can be designed in the form of a band, hose or thread, and additionally have a wide variety of spatial shapes or cross sections. It is essential that the reinforcing element 56 preferably extends between the end regions 9, 10, as a result of which the holding means 2 is reinforced in the direction of the longitudinal extension - arrow 8 - to tensile stress. This reinforcing element 56 can also serve to increase the bending strength of the entire object 1.

It is advantageous if, before the material for the holding means 2 is introduced into the cavity formed by the recesses 13 and the shaped surfaces of the injection molding tool, the reinforcing element 56, which is preferably continuous, is introduced into the recesses 13 arranged one behind the other. Irrespective of this, however, it is also possible to arrange separate pivot joints between the individual elements 3 to 7 on sides facing one another, which can be brought into engagement with one another when introduced into the mold cavity in the injection mold and which in turn form the pivot axis 32 in their center. This makes it possible for these swivel joints, in cooperation with the holding means 2, to improve the bending properties of the object 1 in a plane oriented in the longitudinal direction and perpendicular to the view or support side 11, 12 of the object 1.

In general, when designing the object, it must be taken into account that at least one coupling device for holding and / or connecting the same is arranged between the individual elements 3 to 7 and the continuously formed holding means 2, and this coupling device has both coupling parts on the holding means - 15 -

2 as well as on the individual elements 3 to 7. If required, these coupling parts can be detachable and also form-fitting and can also be brought into engagement in a corresponding form. The individual elements 3 to 7 preferably have a guide extension 15 and a receptacle or recess 13 for passing through or for receiving the holding means 2 for positionally accurate and relatively adjustable mounting on the holding means 2.

For the sake of order, it should finally be pointed out that, for a better understanding of the structure of the band-shaped object, these or its components have been shown partly to scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced.

The object on which the independent inventive solutions are based can be found in the description.

Above all, the individual in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; 7 shown embodiments form the subject of independent, inventive solutions. The relevant tasks and solutions according to the invention can be found in the detailed descriptions of these figures.

16

REFERENCE NUMBERS

1 item 41 swivel angle

2 holding means 42 neutral fiber

3 single element 43 curvature

4 single element 44 surface area

5 single element 45 approach

6 single element 46 top wall

7 single element 47 narrow side

8 Arrow 48 narrow side

9 end area 49 side wall

10 end area 50 side wall

11 View side 51 outer surface

12 Support page 52 floor area

13 recess 53 inner surface

14 guide chamber 54 angle

15 guide extension 55 positioning element

16 guide part 56 reinforcing element

17 guide part

18 guide part

19 guide part

20 bending range

21 bending range

22 legs

23 legs

24 bottom wall

25 contact surface

26 footprint

27 support surface

28 guide surface

29 end face

30 contact surface

31 level

32 swivel axis

33 radius

34 level

35 distance

36 gap

37 width

38 surface

39 level

40 level

Claims

- 17-patent claims

1. A band-shaped object, in particular a bracelet, jewelry band, watch bracelet, which comprises at least one continuous holding means and at least one individual element held thereon and this in its longitudinal extent distant end regions and flat sides extending between them, which form a view side and a support side, and has narrow sides arranged between them, characterized in that the individual element (3 to 7) for receiving the holding means (2) has at least one recess (13) and that the holding means (2) for arranging a plurality of individual elements (3 to 7) and the individual elements (3 to 7) are connected to one another with the holding means (2) by positive locking, in particular a coupling device, or by at least regionally molding.

2. Band-shaped object according to claim 1, characterized in that the individual elements (3 to 7) in the direction of the longitudinal extent - arrow (8) - of the object (1) are arranged directly adjacent to each other.

3. A band-shaped object according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the individual elements (4 to 7) in the direction of the longitudinal extension - arrow (8) - of the object (1) are mutually overlapping or overlapping and form an overlap area.

4. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that the holding means (2) is preferably designed to be flexible in a plane running to its longitudinal direction and perpendicular to the view side (11).

5. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that the holding means (2) is designed to be tensile in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the object (1).

6. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding means (2) is formed from plastic and / or an elastomer such as rubber and / or rubber and / or latex and / or silicone and / or silicone rubber. - 18 -

7. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that wall parts of the individual element (3 to 7) completely surround the recess (13).

8. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wall parts of the individual element (3 to 7) by a cover wall (46) arranged in the region of the view side (11), a base arranged in the region of the support side (12) wall (24) and in the region of the narrow sides (47, 48) arranged side walls (49, 50) are formed.

10

9. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the region of the holding means (2) between the immediately adjacent or successively arranged individual elements (3 to 7) at right angles to the longitudinal extent of the object (1) and parallel to

15 support side (12) aligned bending area (20, 21) is arranged.

10. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bending region (20, 21) is arranged in the region of a neutral fiber (42) of the holding means (2).

20th

11. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bending region (20, 21) is arranged in the region of the support side (12) of the object (1).

_25 12. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that the bending area (20, 21) is arranged in the holding means (2).

13. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding 30 claims, characterized in that the bending area (20, 21) is formed by a recess (13) in the holding means (2).

14. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bending area (20, 21) by a mat

35 rial weakening and / or material rejuvenation in the holding means (2) is formed.

15. Band-shaped article according to one or more of the preceding - 19 -

Claims, characterized in that the bending area (20, 21) is formed by a film hinge in the holding means (2).

16. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the film hinge is formed by at least one region with higher density arranged in regions in the holding means (2) compared to regions with lower density spaced therefrom.

17. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bending area (20, 21) is arranged in the overlap area between the immediately adjacent or successively arranged individual elements (3 to 7).

18. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the individual element (3 to 7) is formed from metal and / or glass and / or ceramic and / or stone and / or plastic and / or synthetic marble.

19. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the support side (12) of the object

(1) facing outer surface (51) of the individual element (3 to 7) forms between 60% and 99%, preferably between 70% and 95%, of a total surface of the support side (12).

20. Band-shaped article according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that the holding means (2) is formed from a plurality of guide parts (16 to 19) articulated in the longitudinal direction one behind the other via bending areas (20, 21).

21. Band-shaped article according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that a guide part (16 to 19) is provided with a guide chamber (14) for receiving a guide extension (15) of an individual element (3 to 7) of an individual element (3 to 7) directly adjacent to this guide part (16 to 19) is.

22. Band-shaped article according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that a guide part (16 to 19) by a for - 20 -

Support side (12) angled leg (23) and a connected to the support side (12) approximately parallel leg (22) is formed.

23. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding ^* 5 claims, characterized in that the guide chamber (14) is delimited by two legs (23) connected to the horizontal leg (22) and angled to it.

24. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding 0 claims, characterized in that the guide chamber (14) through the angular leg (23) and the horizontal leg (22) of a first guide part (16 to 19) and through the over the bending area (20, 21) the angled leg (23) closest to the horizontal leg (22) of the immediately adjacent further guide part (16 to 19) is limited. 5

25. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the angular leg (23) of the guide part (16 to 19) has a bearing surface (25) for a guide surface (28) of the further guide part (16 to 19) supports individual elements (3 to 7).

26. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that this bearing surface (25) of the angular leg (23) the bending area (20, 21) between the guide part (16 to 19) and 5 the following in the longitudinal direction, further Guide part (16 to 19) is facing.

27. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bearing surface (25) of the guide part (16 to 19) and / or a guide surface (28) of the guide extension (15) is curved 0 and a radius (33) the curvature preferably corresponds essentially to the distance between the bearing surface (25) and a pivot axis (32) of the bending region (20, 21) between the guide part (16 to 19) and the guide part (16 to 19) immediately downstream in the longitudinal direction.

5 28. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that the bearing surface (25) and the guide surface (28) lie against one another almost without play. - 21 -

29. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that a center of curvature of the bearing surface (25) and the guide surface (28) is preferably arranged congruently in the bending area (20, 21).

30. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that a distance between the center of curvature and the bearing surface (25) and / or the guide surface (28) is preferably constant.

10

31. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bearing surface (25) and / or the guide surface (28) are each formed as part of a cylindrical surface.

15 32. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that the bearing surface (25) and / or the guide surface (28) are each formed as part of a spherical surface.

33. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding 20 claims, characterized in that the center of curvature of the spherical surface is congruent with the bending area (20, 21) and centrally, preferably based on a width of the object (1).

34. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding _25 claims, characterized in that the radius (33) of the curvature between the

Support surface (25) and / or the guide surface (28) over the length of the pivot axis (32) in the direction thereof has a different size.

35. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding 30 claims, characterized in that the angular leg (23) of the guide part (16 to 19) on the side facing away from the guide chamber (14) assigned to it has a support surface (27) for limiting the with the guide part (16 to 19) arranged upstream in the longitudinal direction for receiving the guide extension (15) of the individual element arranged on the guide part (16 to 19)

35 (3 to 7).

36. Band-shaped article according to one or more of the preceding - 22 -

Claims, characterized in that the angular leg (23) of the guide part (16 to 19) is assigned to at least part of the top and / or bottom wall (46, 24) of an individual element (3 to 7).

37. Band-shaped article according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that the horizontal leg (22) of the guide part (16 to 19) has a base surface (52) which is aligned parallel to the support side (12) and which is in contact with an inner surface (53) of the base wall (24) of the base surface Single element (3 to 7) is formed.

38. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the horizontal leg (22) of the guide part (16 to 19) on the side facing away from the bottom surface (52) has a guide chamber (14) between the support surface (25 ) of the guide part (16 to 19) and the support surface (27) of the longitudinal surface - arrow (8) - immediately downstream further guide part (16 to 19) delimiting base surface (26).

39. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base surface (26) is preferably aligned parallel to the bottom surface (52) of the horizontal leg (22) of the guide part (16 to 19).

40. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base surface (26) of the guide part (16 to 19) has a stop for an end face (guide parts (16 to 19) of the object (1) lying on a horizontal plane) 29) of the guide extension (15) of the individual element (3 to 7).

41. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the individual element (3 to 7) with respect to

Holding means (2), at least in the area of the guide and end face (28, 29) of the guide extension (15), preferably the entire individual element (3 to 7) and the holding means (2), are freely movable relative to one another.

42. Band-shaped article according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that at least the guide surface (28) and / or end face (29) of the guide extension (15) with a release agent coating against - 23 -

is provided over the holding means (2).

43. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the individual element (3 to 7) has a positioning element (55) for positioning and / or holding in a molding tool.

44. A band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the positioning element (55) is formed by a self-centering, conical or cone-shaped centering opening.

45. Band-shaped article according to one or more of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that at least one stop element for swiveling limitation is arranged between the directly adjacent or successively arranged individual elements (3 to 7).

46. Band-shaped object according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the horizontal legs (22) of directly adjacent guide parts (16 to 19) and / or the bottom wall (24) of the individual elements (3 to 7) with stop elements for Limitation of the pivot angle of the relative pivoting movement of directly adjacent individual elements (3 to 7) or of the horizontal legs (22) are provided.

47. Single element, in particular for arrangement on a continuous holding means with at least one coupling device for connection to the holding means, characterized in that the coupling device has, if necessary, detachable coupling parts which can be brought into engagement with coupling parts on the holding means (2) or by a guide extension (15) and a receptacle for passing the holding means (2) to the positionally accurate, relative to the holding means (2) relatively adjustable storage on the holding means (2) is formed.

48. Single element according to claim 47, characterized in that the recess (13) is formed by an opening on all sides by the individual element (3 to 7).

49. Single element according to claim 47 or 48, characterized in that the guide extension (15) protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the end face of the recess (13) over the recess (13). - 24 -

50. Single element according to one or more of claims 47 to 49, characterized in that the guide extension (15) is provided with a convex curvature, the center or center line of which is arranged adjacent the end face of the recess (13) which is closer to the guide extension (15) .

51. Single element according to one or more of claims 47 to 50, characterized in that the center point or the center line between the end face of the recess (13) facing the guide extension (15) and the end region (9 , 10) of the guide extension (15) is arranged.

52.Method for producing a band-shaped object, in particular a bracelet, jewelry band, watch band, in which a plurality of individual elements are positively held on at least one continuous holding means, in which an object provided with a longitudinal extension has end regions spaced apart from one another and flat sides extending between them, which have a Form the view side and a support side, are made of an elastically deformable material, in particular a thermoplastic, characterized in that the individual elements are arranged one behind the other in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the object with the longitudinal axes of their recesses, whereupon spaces between the individual elements are closed by shaped surfaces and the continuous cavity, which is delimited by the recesses and the shaped surfaces, is filled with the plasticized, elastically deformable material.

53. The method according to claim 52, characterized in that film hinges are formed between the individual elements in the holding means made of the elastically deformable material.

54. The method according to claim 52 or 53, characterized in that the

Individual elements are brought into engagement with one another before the introduction of the holding means for producing a swivel joint.

55. The method according to one or more of claims 52 to 54, characterized in that the inner surfaces of the recesses are coated with a release agent to prevent the material from adhering before the introduction of the plasticized material for producing the holding means. - 25 -

56. The method according to one or more of claims 52 to 55, characterized in that surfaces of guide projections, which are formed to form guide chambers with the material of the holding means, are coated with a release agent preventing the material from adhering before the material is introduced.

57. The method according to one or more of claims 52 to 56, characterized in that, before the introduction of the material for the holding means into the cavity formed by the recesses and the shaped surfaces, a preferably band-shaped reinforcing element is inserted through the recesses.