Watch case and watch

Abstract

The present application provides a clasp and a timepiece, which can easily adjust the length of a band, can reduce the number of components, and can reduce costs. The clasp has: an intermediate folding member linked with a first band; a clasp cover linked with the intermediate folding member in a rotatable manner; a sliding plate supported so as to be slidable in the length direction of each band with respect to the clasp cover and linked with a second band; and a swing arm supported to the clasp cover in a rotatable manner, the sliding plate has a plurality of groove portions provided along the length direction, the swing arm has a base portion, an arm portion, an engaging claw, and an operation piece, the swing arm is supported so as to be rotatable in a first rotation direction in which the engaging claw engages with the groove portion and a second rotation direction in which the engaging claw is separated from the groove portion, and the intermediate folding member has a protruding portion which, when the intermediate folding member is rotated with respect to the clasp cover, abuts against the operation piece to rotate the swing arm in the second rotation direction.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a watch band, a band for accessories, and a watch provided with the same. BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventionally, there is a watch band provided with a unit for finely adjusting the length of a watch band (see, for example, Patent Literature 1).

[0003] The watch band of Patent Literature 1 is provided with a button for releasing the lock mechanism of the band length adjustment mechanism on the back side of the band cover. When the button is pressed, the end link connected to the bracelet is able to move with respect to the band cover, and thus the length of the bracelet can be adjusted.

[0004] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-164567

[0005] In the watch band of Patent Literature 1, in order to operate the button on the back side of the band cover to adjust the length of the band, the button operation is cumbersome. In addition, there is a problem in that the number of constituent parts of the watch band also increases, and the cost increases. SUMMARY

[0006] The watch band of the present application is a watch band that links a first band and a second band, characterized by comprising: an intermediate folding member linked to the first band; a band cover linked to the intermediate folding member in a rotatable manner; a sliding plate supported so as to be slidable with respect to the band cover in a length direction of the first band and the second band, and linked to the second band; and a swing arm supported to the band cover in a rotatable manner, the sliding plate having a plurality of groove portions provided along the length direction, the swing arm having: a base portion supported to the band cover in a rotatable manner; an arm portion extending from the base portion to the sliding plate side; an engagement claw provided to the arm portion and capable of engaging with the groove portion of the sliding plate; and an operation piece extending from the base portion to a side opposite to the arm portion, the swing arm being supported so as to be rotatable in a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction, the first rotation direction being a direction in which the engagement claw engages into the groove portion, the second rotation direction being a direction in which the engagement claw is disengaged from the groove portion, the intermediate folding member having a protruding portion that abuts against the operation piece when the intermediate folding member is detached from the band cover and rotated with respect to the band cover, and rotates the swing arm in the second rotation direction.

[0007] The watch of the present application is characterized by being provided with the watch band. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1is a front view of a watch showing an embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a watch case showing a state in which an intermediate folding member of an embodiment is folded.

[0010] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a watch case showing a state in which an intermediate folding member of an embodiment is opened.

[0011] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a watch case of an embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a part of the back surface side of a watch case cover of an embodiment after being disassembled.

[0013] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a slide plate of an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a swing arm of an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of a button unit of an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a main part of a watch case in a locked state of an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 10 is a side view showing a main part of a watch case in a locked state of an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 is a side view showing a main part of a watch case in a lock release state of an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 is a side view showing a band length adjustment state of an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 13 is a side view showing a band length adjustment state of an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 14 is a side view showing a band length adjustment state of an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 15 is a side view showing a band maximum extension state of an embodiment.

[0023] Explanation of Reference Signs

[0024] 1: Watch buckle; 2: Middle folding component; 4: Watch buckle body; 10: Outer housing; 11: First strap; 12: Second strap; 20: Middle plate; 21: Hook; 22: Protrusion; 23: Claw; 23A: Inclined surface; 30: Outer plate; 32: Shaft; 35: Protrusion; 40: Watch buckle cover; 41: Surface; 42: First side wall; 43: Second side wall; 44: Guide groove; 50: Sliding plate; 51: Plate; 52: Connecting part; 53: Groove; 54: Movement restriction part; 54A: Restriction surface; 60: Swing arm; 61: Base; 62: Arm; 63: Engaging claw; 64: Operating plate; 65: Torsion spring; 70: Button unit; 71: First button; 72: Second button; 8 0: Locking component; 81: Upper surface; 82: Lower surface; 83: Guide; 100: Watch; 530: Groove wall; 531: First vertical surface; 532: Second vertical surface; 631: First opposing surface; 632: Second opposing surface; 641: Protrusion; 642: Recess; 710: Base plate; 711: First operating part; 712: Guide; 712A: Guide surface; 712B: Side; 720: Base plate; 721: Second operating part; 722: Guide; 722A: Guide surface; 722B: Side; 811: Guide groove; 821: Locking surface; 831: Guide surface; R1: First rotation direction; R2: Second rotation direction; R3: Third rotation direction; R4: Fourth rotation direction. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described using the accompanying drawings.

[0026] like Figure 1 As shown, the watch 100, which is a clock, includes an outer case 10, a first strap 11, and a second strap 12. Lugs 10A are integrally provided at the 6 o'clock and 12 o'clock positions on the outer case 10. The first strap 11 is connected to the lug 10A at the 6 o'clock position by a mounting pin, and the second strap 12 is connected to the lug 10A at the 12 o'clock position by a mounting pin.

[0027] The first band 11 and the second band 12 are formed by connecting multiple band sections 9 with the aid of pins (not shown in the diagram).

[0028] Moreover, the open ends of the first belt 11 and the second belt 12 are connected to each other. Figures 2-5 The buckle 1 shown is fastened.

[0029] The clasp 1 is a three-fold clasp with a middle folding component 2. Figure 2 This is a 3D view of the buckle 1 with the middle folding component 2 folded and stowed. Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the buckle 1 with the middle folding part 2 open. Figure 4 This is an exploded 3D view of Table 1.Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of the back surface side of the clasp cover 40.

[0030] In addition, Figure 6 is a perspective view of the slide plate 50, Figure 7 is a perspective view of the swing arm 60, Figure 8 is a perspective view of the button unit 70, Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a main part of the clasp 1 in a locked state, Figure 10 is a side view showing a main part of the clasp 1 in a locked state.

[0031] Further, in each drawing, an axis in the length direction of the first band 11 and the second band 12 is set as an X axis, an axis perpendicular to the X axis and in the width direction of the first band 11 and the second band 12 is set as a Y axis, and an axis perpendicular to the X axis and the Y axis is set as a Z axis. On the X axis, a direction from the clasp 1 toward the first band 11 is set as an X1 direction, and a direction from the clasp 1 toward the second band 12 is set as an X2 direction. On the Y axis, a direction from the width direction center of the clasp cover 40 toward the first side wall portion 42 side is set as a Y1 direction, and a direction from the width direction center of the clasp cover 40 toward the second side wall portion 43 side is set as a Y2 direction. On the Z axis, a direction from the intermediate folding member 2 toward the clasp cover 40, that is, a direction toward the surface side of the clasp 1 is set as a Z1 direction, and a direction from the clasp cover 40 toward the intermediate folding member 2, that is, a direction toward the back surface side of the clasp 1 is set as a Z2 direction. Further, with respect to each member, a face on the Z1 direction side is expressed as a surface, and a face on the Z2 direction side is expressed as a back surface.

[0032] As shown in Figures 2-4 , the clasp 1 includes an intermediate folding member 2 and a clasp main body 4.

[0033] The intermediate folding member 2 includes a middle plate 20 and an outer plate 30.

[0034] As shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the middle plate 20 is a member formed in a long strip along the length direction of the first band 11, that is, the X axis direction, and an end portion in the X1 direction is connected to the first band 11 in a rotatable manner. An end portion in the X2 direction of the middle plate 20 is connected to one end portion of the outer plate 30 in a rotatable manner.

[0035] A hook 21 is provided in the middle plate 20. The hook 21 is provided on the surface of the middle plate 20 near the end portion connected to the first band 11. The hook 21 includes a protruding portion 22 protruding in the Z1 direction and a claw portion 23 protruding from the protruding portion 22 in the X2 direction. As Figure 3 , Figure 10As shown, the surface side of the claw portion 23 is formed as an inclined surface 23A that slopes downwards in the Z2 direction as it faces the X2 direction. A stepped portion 25 with a recessed surface is formed at the middle position in the length direction of the middle plate 20.

[0036] The end of the outer plate 30 in the X1 direction is rotatably connected to the clasp cover 40 via a spring rod 31. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the outer plate 30 includes: a shaft portion 32 through which a spring rod 31 is inserted; a main body portion 33 extending from the shaft portion 32 along the X-axis direction, which is the length direction of the belt, and disposed on the left and right sides of the middle plate 20; and a connecting portion 34 connecting the main body portion 33 and having its back recessed into the stepped portion 25 disposed on the middle plate 20.

[0037] Therefore, when the middle folding member 2 is folded, the hook 21 of the middle plate 20 is configured to protrude in the Z1 direction from the opening between the main body portions 33 of the outer plate 30. In addition, the portion of the middle plate 20 other than the stepped portion 25 is disposed in the opening between the main body portions 33 of the outer plate 30, and the surface and back of the middle plate 20 and the outer plate 30 are configured to be located on approximately the same plane.

[0038] Furthermore, protrusions 35 are formed on the shaft portion 32 for rotating the swing arm 60 as described later.

[0039] [Structure of the main body of the watch buckle]

[0040] like Figures 2-4 As shown, the main body 4 of the watch buckle includes a watch buckle cover 40, a sliding plate 50, a swing arm 60, and a button unit 70.

[0041] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the watch cover 40 includes: a plate-shaped surface portion 41 that is curved in an arc shape along the sliding direction of the sliding plate 50, namely the X1 and X2 directions; and a first side wall portion 42 and a second side wall portion 43 that protrude from the outer edge of the surface portion 41 in the Y1 and Y2 directions toward the back side.

[0042] A guide rail portion 411 that is continuous in the X-axis direction is formed on the back side of the surface portion 41.

[0043] The first sidewall portion 42 and the second sidewall portion 43 are provided with guide grooves 44 for guiding the sliding plate 50 to slide, and through holes 46 for the first button 71 and the second button 72 of the button unit 70 to be inserted through. The opening on the outer surface of the through hole 46 is elliptical, and the opening on the inner surface is a rectangular opening that is larger than the elliptical opening on the outer surface, so as to match the shape of the first button 71 and the second button 72.

[0044] Furthermore, the first sidewall portion 42 and the second sidewall portion 43 are provided with: a hole 48 in which a spring rod 31 connected to the outer plate 30 is installed; and a through hole 49 in which a pin 68 is inserted, the pin 68 serving as a shaft for mounting the rocker arm 60 to rotate freely.

[0045] like Figures 2-4 As shown, the sliding plate 50 is disposed between the watch buckle cover 40 and the intermediate folding member 2, and is configured to slide along the guide groove 44 of the watch buckle cover 40 in the length direction of the first belt 11 and the second belt 12, i.e., the X1 direction and the X2 direction.

[0046] like Figure 6 As shown, the sliding plate 50 includes: a plate portion 51 disposed at both ends of the guide groove 44; a connecting portion 52 formed at the end of the plate portion 51; a groove portion 53 formed on the surface of the plate portion 51; and a movement limiting portion 54. In the sliding plate 50, the end on the X1 direction side where the movement limiting portion 54 is formed is called the front end, and the end on the X2 direction side where the connecting portion 52 is formed is called the rear end. A through hole 52A is formed in the connecting portion 52 for the connecting pin of the second belt 12 to be inserted through.

[0047] On the surface of the plate portion 51 of the sliding plate 50, a plurality of plate-shaped groove wall portions 530 are formed at intervals in the X-axis direction, oriented approximately perpendicular to the movement direction of the sliding plate 50, i.e., the X-axis direction. These groove wall portions 530 have a first vertical surface 531 and a second vertical surface 532 that are approximately perpendicular to the plate portion 51, and a groove portion 53, which is approximately rectangular in shape when viewed from the side, is formed between the first vertical surface 531 and the second vertical surface 532. Furthermore, the first vertical surface 531 is the surface of the groove wall portion 530 on the side closest to the movement restriction portion 54, i.e., the X1 direction side, and the second vertical surface 532 is the surface of the groove wall portion 530 on the side closest to the connecting portion 52, i.e., the X2 direction side. Additionally, a groove portion 53 is also formed between the groove wall portion 530 on the X1 direction side and the movement restriction portion 54, and a groove portion 53 is also formed between the groove wall portion 530 on the X2 direction side and the connecting portion 52. Figure 6 In the sliding plate 50 shown, since there are 8 groove wall portions 530, there are 7 groove portions 53 between the groove wall portions 530. Since there are 2 groove portions 53 between the moving restriction portion 54 and the connecting portion 52, a total of 9 groove portions 53 are formed.

[0048] Similar to the groove wall portion 530, the movement restriction portion 54 is a protrusion with a generally rectangular cross-section that is continuous in the width direction of the sliding plate 50. The movement restriction portion 54 is disposed opposite to the first vertical surface 531 of the groove wall portion 530 on the X1 direction side, and protrudes upward from the upper end of the groove wall portion 530 towards the surface portion 41. The side of the movement restriction portion 54 on the groove wall portion 530 side becomes a restriction surface 54A perpendicular to the movement direction of the sliding plate 50.

[0049] like Figures 2-4 As shown, the swing arm 60 is disposed between the surface portion 41 of the watch clasp cover 40 and the sliding plate 50, and is mounted to rotate freely relative to the watch clasp cover 40 by means of a round rod-shaped pin 68 that is inserted and fixed in the through holes 49 of the first side wall portion 42 and the second side wall portion 43. In addition, as a structure for fixing the pin 68 to the first side wall portion 42 and the second side wall portion 43, it can be fixed by pressing an annular fixing member or the like into the gap between the pin 68 and the through hole 49, or it can be fixed by threads, as long as the pin 68, which serves as the rotation axis, does not come off the through hole 49.

[0050] like Figure 7 As shown, the swing arm 60 includes: a base 61 that is rotatably supported on a pin 68; an arm 62 that extends from the base 61 toward the X2 direction side, i.e., the sliding plate 50 side, and has a locking claw 63; and a limiting piece 64 that extends from the base 61 toward the X1 direction side.

[0051] The base 61 includes a pair of support walls 611 through which a pin 68 is inserted and a connecting wall 612 connecting the support walls 611. A torsion spring 65 is disposed between the support walls 611. The torsion spring 65 includes: a first abutting portion 651 disposed on the inner side of each support wall 611 and abutting against the upper end of the connecting wall 612; a coil portion 652 through which the pin 68 is inserted; and a second abutting portion 653 protruding toward the button unit 70.

[0052] The arm portion 62 extends in the X2 direction from the upper part of the base portion 61, i.e., the surface portion 41 of the buckle cover 40. Therefore, the arm portion 62 is arranged along the surface portion 41.

[0053] The engaging claw 63 has a first opposing surface 631 and a second opposing surface 632, which are provided from the front end of the arm 62 along a Z2 direction that is substantially perpendicular to the extension direction of the arm 62, i.e., the X2 direction. The engaging claw 63 is generally rectangular in shape when viewed from the side, and is configured to engage with the groove 53 between the groove wall portion 530 of the sliding plate 50. The first opposing surface 631 is the outer surface facing the connecting portion 52 of the sliding plate 50, and is the surface that opposes the first vertical surface 531 when the engaging claw 63 engages with the groove 53. The second opposing surface 632 is the inner surface facing the movement limiting portion 54 of the sliding plate 50, and is the surface that opposes the second vertical surface 532 when the engaging claw 63 engages with the groove 53.

[0054] The operating piece 64 extends in the X1 direction from the lower part of the base 61, i.e., the side of the intermediate folding member 2. Therefore, the arm 62 and the operating piece 64 are positioned across a pin 68, which serves as the rotation axis of the swing arm 60. Thus, when the arm 62 rotates in a first rotational direction R1 approaching the sliding plate 50, the operating piece 64 rotates in a first rotational direction R1 away from the intermediate folding member 2. Furthermore, when the arm 62 rotates in a second rotational direction R2 away from the sliding plate 50, the operating piece 64 rotates in a second rotational direction R2 approaching the intermediate folding member 2.

[0055] At both ends of the operating plate 64 in the Y-axis direction, a pair of protrusions 641 extend in the X1 direction. Between the pair of protrusions 641, a recess 642 is formed for accommodating the hook 21 of the middle plate 20. As will be described later, the protrusions 641 are the portions that abut against the protrusions 35 of the outer plate 30.

[0056] like Figures 2-5 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the button unit 70 includes a first button 71, a second button 72, and a locking component 80.

[0057] The first button 71 and the second button 72 protrude from the through hole 46 of the first sidewall portion 42 and the second sidewall portion 43, and are configured to be movable in the Y-axis direction.

[0058] like Figure 8 As shown, the first button 71 includes: a base plate 710; a first operating portion 711 protruding from the base plate 710 in the Y1 direction; and a guide portion 712 protruding from the base plate 710 in the Y2 direction. The first operating portion 711 is inserted through a through hole 46 in the first side wall portion 42 and protrudes outward from the outer side of the cover 40. The base plate 710 is disposed on the inner surface of the opening of the through hole 46 in the first side wall portion 42, and restricts the movement of the first button 71 in the Y1 direction by abutting against the wall surrounding the elliptical opening.

[0059] The guide portion 712 is formed into a flat plate shape and has two sides: a guide surface 712A and a side surface 712B. The guide surface 712A is the side surface on the X2 direction side, i.e., the side of the base 61 of the rocker arm 60, and it is inclined towards the X1 direction away from the base 61, i.e., closer to the other side surface 712B, as it faces the Y2 direction.

[0060] The second button 72, like the first button 71, includes: a base plate 720; a second operating portion 721 protruding from the base plate 720 in the Y2 direction; and a guide portion 722 protruding from the base plate 720 in the Y1 direction. The second operating portion 721 is inserted through a through hole 46 in the second side wall portion 43 and protrudes outward from the outer side of the watch cover 40. The base plate 720 is disposed in the opening on the inner surface side of the through hole 46 in the second side wall portion 43 and restricts the movement of the second button 72 in the Y2 direction.

[0061] The guide portion 722 is formed in a flat plate shape like the guide portion 712, and as shown, has a guide surface 722A and a side surface 722B. The guide surface 722A, like the guide surface 712A, slopes toward the XI direction, that is, a direction approaching the other side surface 722B, as it goes toward the Yl direction. Figure 4

[0062] As shown, the lock member 80 has an upper surface portion 81 provided on the surface portion 41 side, a lower surface portion 82 provided on the intermediate fold member 2 side, and a guide portion 83 provided between the upper surface portion 81 and the lower surface portion 82. Figure 8 A guide groove 811 formed along the X-axis direction is formed on the surface of the upper surface portion 81. The lock member 80 is slidably moved in the X-axis direction by the guide groove 811 and the guide rail portion 411 of the back surface of the surface portion 41.

[0063] As shown, the first side surface 84 on the X2 direction side of the lock member 80 is a flat surface that is abutted by the second abutment portion 653 of the torsion spring 65. The first abutment portion 651 of the torsion spring 65 abuts against the upper end side of the link wall 612 of the swing arm 60, that is, a position on the Zl direction side from the pin 68 that is the rotation axis, and the second abutment portion 653 abuts against the first side surface 84 of the lock member 80. Thus, the torsion spring 65 exerts a force on the swing arm 60 in the first rotation direction Rl and exerts a force on the lock member 80 in the XI direction.

[0064] Figure 10 The second side surface 85 on the XI direction side of the lower surface portion 82 is formed as an inclined surface that slopes in a manner that protrudes toward the XI direction as it goes toward the Zl direction. Also, as shown in FIG. 8, the surface of the lower surface portion 82 becomes a hooking surface 821 that hooks the hook 21.

[0065] The second side surface 85 on the XI direction side of the lower surface portion 82 is formed as an inclined surface that slopes in a manner that protrudes toward the XI direction as it goes toward the Zl direction. Also, as shown in FIG. 8, the surface of the lower surface portion 82 becomes a hooking surface 821 that hooks the hook 21. Figure 9 Figure 10 The guide portion 83 has a pair of guide surfaces 831 that slope in a manner that approach each other as they go toward the XI direction. The guide surfaces 712A, 722A of the first and second buttons 71, 72 abut against the respective guide surfaces 831. Also, the guide portions 712, 722 are disposed between the upper surface portion 81 and the lower surface portion 82, and thus are restricted from moving in the Z-axis direction.

[0066] The guide portion 83 has a pair of guide surfaces 831 that slope in a manner that approach each other as they go toward the XI direction. The guide surfaces 712A, 722A of the first and second buttons 71, 72 abut against the respective guide surfaces 831. Also, the guide portions 712, 722 are disposed between the upper surface portion 81 and the lower surface portion 82, and thus are restricted from moving in the Z-axis direction.

[0067] ​​​The locking member 80 is forced in the X1 direction by the torsion spring 65, and the guide surface 831 abuts against the guide surfaces 712A and 722A, thereby forcing the first button 71 and the second button 72 in the Y1 and Y2 directions, which are separated from each other. This maintains the state where the substrates 710 and 720 abut against the first sidewall portion 42 and the second sidewall portion 43, i.e., the first operating portion 711 and the second operating portion 721 protrude from the clasp cover 40. In this state, the locking member 80 moves to a locking position where the claw portion 23 of the hook 21 can be locked using the locking surface 821.

[0068] On the other hand, when the user presses the first button 71 and the second button 72 closer together, the guide surfaces 712A and 722A of the guide portions 712 and 722 abut against the guide surface 831, thereby causing the locking member 80 to move in the X2 direction against the force of the torsion spring 65, and the locking surface 821 is released from locking the hook 21. In this case, the locking member 80 moves to the released position to release the locking of the hook 21.

[0069] How to attach and detach a watch

[0070] Next, the method of wearing watch 100 on the user's wrist will be explained.

[0071] like Figure 3 As shown, with the clasp 1 unlocked and the middle folding member 2 open, the wrist passes through the first strap 11 and the second strap 12, folding the middle folding member 2 while pressing the clasp cover 40 towards the middle folding member 2. This causes the hook 21 of the middle plate 20 to abut against the locking member 80 through the opening in the outer plate 30. At this time, the inclined surface 23A of the hook 21 abuts against the inclined second side surface 85 of the locking member 80. Through the action of the inclined surfaces, the locking member 80 moves in the X2 direction, and the claw 23 passes over the lower surface portion 82. Then, under the force of the torsion spring 65, the locking member 80 moves in the X1 direction and returns, and the claw 23 abuts against the locking surface 821 and is locked. Thus, the middle folding member 2 is stored in the clasp cover 40, and the watch 100 is worn on the user's wrist. In this state, the surface of the middle folding member 2 abuts against the operating piece 64 of the balance arm 60. Therefore, the rotation of the swing arm 60 in the second rotation direction R2 is restricted, maintaining the engagement state between the locking claw 63 and the groove 53, and the belt length is also fixed.

[0072] Next, the method for removing the watch 100 from the wrist will be explained.

[0073] When the user presses the first button 71 and the second button 72, the guide surfaces 712A and 722A press the guide surface 831, thereby moving the locking component 80 in the X2 direction and releasing the locking surface 821 from locking the hook 21.

[0074] Thus, as shown in Figure 11 the intermediate folding member 2 housed in the buckle cover 40 can be opened, and the watch 100 can be removed from the wrist.

[0075] [Method of adjusting the band length]

[0076] Next, with reference to Figures 12-14 the method of adjusting the band length will be described. In the following description, when the outer plate 30 is rotated with respect to the buckle cover 40, the direction in which the outer plate 30 is moved away from the buckle cover 40 is referred to as the third rotation direction R3, and the direction in which the outer plate 30 is moved toward the buckle cover 40 is referred to as the fourth rotation direction R4.

[0077] In the state in which the intermediate folding member 2 is opened, since the intermediate folding member 2 does not abut against the operation piece 64 of the swing arm 60, the swing arm 60 is also allowed to rotate in the second rotation direction R2. In this state, the outer plate 30 is rotated in the third rotation direction R3, and the protrusion 35 formed in the shaft portion 32 is pressed against the surface of the protrusion 641. As a result, the operation piece 64 of the swing arm 60 is moved in the Z2 direction, i.e., downward, and the arm portion 62 and the engagement claw 63 are moved in the Zl direction, i.e., upward. Therefore, the swing arm 60 is rotated in the second rotation direction R2 against the force of the torsion spring 65. As a result, the front end of the engagement claw 63 is moved beyond the upper end of the groove wall portion 530 of the sliding plate 50, and the engagement with the groove portion 53 is released. Therefore, by the operation of the user, the sliding plate 50 and the second band 12 can be moved in either of the Xl direction and the X2 direction.

[0078] For example, as shown in Figures 12-13 the state in which the outer plate 30 is rotated in the third rotation direction R3 and the swing arm 60 is rotated in the second rotation direction R2, the second band 12 and the sliding plate 50 are moved in the direction in which they are pulled out from the buckle cover 40. Then, after the band length is adjusted to the desired length, as shown in Figure 14 the protrusion 35 is moved away from the protrusion 641, the swing arm 60 is rotated in the first rotation direction Rl by the force of the torsion spring 65, and the engagement claw 63 is engaged with the groove portion 53. By performing such an operation, the position of the sliding plate 50 can be adjusted in accordance with the number of groove portions 53. Since the sliding plate 50 has nine groove portions 53, the sliding plate 50 can be adjusted to nine levels. Also, as described above, if the hook 21 is latched to the locking member 80 and the intermediate folding member 2 is housed in the buckle cover 40, the intermediate folding member 2 abuts against the operation piece 64 and restricts the rotation of the swing arm 60 in the second rotation direction R2. Therefore, the movement of the sliding plate 50, i.e., the adjustment of the length of the band, can also be restricted.

[0079] Further, the height dimension of the restriction surface 54A is higher than the groove wall portion 530, so even if the engagement claw 63 moves to a height position not abutting against the groove wall portion 530, it abuts against the restriction surface 54A. Therefore, by the second opposing surface 632 of the engagement claw 63 abutting against the restriction surface 54A, movement of the slide plate 50 in the X2 direction is restricted, and it is possible to prevent the slide plate 50 from coming off the watch case 40. Therefore, in the case where the slide plate 50 is moved in the X2 direction to lengthen the belt length, Figure 15 The state in which the engagement claw 63 shown abuts against the movement restriction portion 54 is a maximum elongation state in which the belt length is maximally elongated, and further movement of the slide plate 50 in the X2 direction is restricted. Therefore, the second opposing surface 632 of the engagement claw 63 is an abutting surface that abuts against the restriction surface 54A.

[0080] Further, in the case of installing the slide plate 50 and the swing arm 60 in the watch case 40, in a state in which the swing arm 60 and the slide plate 50 are assembled, the slide plate 50 is arranged in the guide groove 44 of the watch case 40 and is slid and moved in the XI direction, and the pin 68 is inserted through the through-hole 49 and the base portion 61 to axially support the swing arm 60. Conversely, in the case of detaching the slide plate 50 and the swing arm 60 from the watch case 40 due to maintenance or the like, it is sufficient to detach the pin 68 and slide and move the swing arm 60 and the slide plate 50 in the X2 direction to detach from the watch case 40.

[0081] [Effects of Embodiment]

[0082] According to the watchband 1 of the present embodiment, by detaching the intermediate folding member 2 from the watch case 40 to rotate the outer plate 30 in the third rotation direction R3, and abutting the protruding portion 35 of the outer plate 30 against the operation piece 64 of the swing arm 60, it is possible to rotate the swing arm 60 in the second rotation direction R2, and to release the engagement of the engagement claw 63 of the swing arm 60 from the groove portion 53 of the slide plate 50. Therefore, by pressing the second belt 12 toward the watch case 40 side or pulling it out from the watch case 40 side, it is possible to perform a slide operation of the slide plate 50 to change the belt length, and it is possible to easily adjust the length of the belt without performing a button operation.

[0083] Further, since the number of components constituting the watchband 1 is small, assembly of the watchband 1 is also easy and the cost can be reduced. Further, it is possible to adjust the length of the belt in multiple stages at intervals of the groove portions 53, and it is possible to easily conform the belt length to the wrist or the like of the user.

[0084] The groove portion 53 of the slide plate 50 is formed by a groove wall portion 530 having a first vertical surface 531 and a second vertical surface 532 perpendicular to the sliding direction of the slide plate 50. On the other hand, the engagement claw 63 has a first opposing surface 631 opposing the first vertical surface 531 when engaged with the groove portion 53 and a second opposing surface 632 opposing the second vertical surface 532. The first opposing surface 631 and the second opposing surface 632 oppose the first vertical surface 531 and the second vertical surface 532 and thus become surfaces perpendicular to the sliding direction. Therefore, in a state where the engagement claw 63 is engaged with the groove portion 53, when a force in the sliding direction is applied to the slide plate 50, the first vertical surface 531 abuts against the first opposing surface 631 or the second vertical surface 532 abuts against the second opposing surface 632. Thus, the movement of the slide plate 50 in the sliding direction can be restricted. Therefore, as long as the swing arm 60 is not rotated in the second rotation direction R2 by the outer plate 30 of the intermediate folding member 2, the slide plate 50 does not move. That is, the slide plate 50 can be prevented from moving unexpectedly to change the band length.

[0085] In a state where the intermediate folding member 2 is folded and housed in the clasp cover 40, by abutting the surface of the intermediate folding member 2, that is, the intermediate plate 20 and the outer plate 30 against the back surface of the operation piece 64, the rotation of the swing arm 60 in the second rotation direction R2 can be restricted, and the state where the engagement claw 63 is engaged with the groove portion 53 can be maintained. Therefore, in a state where the band is worn on the wrist or the like of the user, the state where the slide plate 50 cannot be slid, that is, the state where the band length cannot be adjusted, can be reliably maintained. Therefore, the band length can be reliably prevented from changing unexpectedly when worn.

[0086] In addition, by abutting the intermediate folding member 2 against the operation piece 64 of the swing arm 60, the rotation of the swing arm 60 in the second rotation direction R2 can be restricted, and thus the rotation of the swing arm 60 can be reliably restricted with a simple configuration.

[0087] Furthermore, the operation piece 64 can ensure a relatively large area, and thus the abutting area when abutting against the housed intermediate folding member 2 can also be increased. Therefore, the operation piece 64 can be reliably abutted against the intermediate folding member 2 to reliably restrict the rotation of the swing arm 60.

[0088] In addition, the operation piece 64 is disposed on the back surface side of the torsion spring 65 and the locking member 80 and can hide these members, and thus the appearance can be made simple when the back surface side of the clasp 1 is observed, and the designability can be improved. Furthermore, when the back surface side of the clasp 1 is observed, the engagement claw 63 of the swing arm 60 is blocked by the slide plate 50, and the groove portion 53 of the slide plate 50 is also not exposed to the back surface side of the clasp 1. In this regard, the appearance of the back surface side of the clasp 1 can also be made simple, and the designability can be improved.

[0089] The watch case 1 has a torsion spring 65 that exerts a force on the swing arm 60 in the first rotational direction Rl. Therefore, by rotating the outer plate 30 in the fourth rotational direction R4, the protrusion 35 of the outer plate 30 that is in contact with the protrusion 641 of the operation piece 64 is caused to move away from the protrusion 641 of the operation piece 64. Then, the swing arm 60 is rotated in the first rotational direction Rl by the force of the torsion spring 65, and the engagement claw 63 can be engaged with the groove portion 53. Therefore, the engagement claw 63 can be immediately engaged with the groove portion 53. Therefore, the intermediate folding member 2 is rotated without the need to manually rotate the swing arm 60 in the first rotational direction Rl, and it is also possible to prevent the sliding plate 50 from being moved by accident during the rotation operation and changing the adjusted band length.

[0090] The intermediate folding member 2 is provided with the hook 21, and is provided with the locking member 80 that moves between the locking position that locks the hook 21 and the release position that releases the locking, and therefore by moving the locking member 80, it is possible to reliably achieve the state of folding and storing the intermediate folding member 2 in the watch case cover 40 to lock, and the state of releasing the locking by removing the intermediate folding member 2 from the watch case cover 40. In addition, since the locking member 80 moves to lock and release the hook 21, it is possible to improve durability compared to cases where the locking and releasing are performed by deforming the side wall portion or the like of the watch case cover, for example.

[0091] The 1 torsion spring 65 is used as both a spring that exerts a force on the swing arm 60 in the first rotational direction Rl and a spring that exerts a force on the locking member 80 in the locking position. Furthermore, by moving the locking member 80 to the locking position, the first button 71 and the second button 72 are caused to be forced in directions that separate from each other. Therefore, compared to cases where different springs are used to exert forces on each member, respectively, it is possible to reduce the number of components, and assembly is easy and costs can be reduced.

[0092] Since the guide groove 44 is formed in the watch case cover 40, and the plate portion 51 of the sliding plate 50 is inserted into the guide groove 44, the sliding plate 50 does not wobble and moves stably. Therefore, the length adjustment of the band can also be performed stably and smoothly. In addition, the guide groove 44 is formed only to the halfway position of the first side wall portion 42 and the second side wall portion 43 in the Xl direction, and therefore it is possible to limit the movement of the sliding plate 50 in the Xl direction. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the sliding plate 50 from being damaged by colliding with the swing arm 60 or the like.

[0093] Since the movement limiting portion 54 is provided in the sliding plate 50, it is possible to limit the movement of the sliding plate 50 in the X2 direction. Therefore, when the sliding plate 50 is pulled out to adjust the length of the band, it is possible to prevent the engagement claw 63 of the swing arm 60 from being disengaged from the sliding plate 50 and the sliding plate 50 from being removed from the watch case cover 40.

[0094] [Modified Example]

[0095] Moreover, the present application is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and modifications, improvements, and the like within the scope of achieving the objects of the present application are also included in the present application.

[0096] For example, the groove portion 53 of the slide plate 50 is not limited to being formed by a groove wall portion 530 that stands up from the plate portion 51 in a direction perpendicular to the slide direction. For example, the engaging claw 63 can be formed in a triangular cross-sectional shape, and the groove portion 53 can be formed in an inverted triangular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the shape of the engaging claw 63. In addition, the cross-sectional shapes of the groove portion 53 and the engaging claw 63 do not necessarily need to be the same shape. The cross-sectional shapes of the groove portion 53 and the engaging claw 63 only need to be such that the engaging claw 63 can be engaged with the groove portion 53 to restrict the movement of the slide plate 50 when the swing arm 60 is rotated in the first rotation direction Rl. Also, when the swing arm 60 is rotated in the second rotation direction R2 by the rotation operation performed by bringing the protruding portion 35 of the outer plate 30 into abutment with the operation piece 64, the engaging claw 63 only needs to be able to be disengaged from the groove portion 53 to release the engagement and thereby release the restriction of the movement of the slide plate 50.

[0097] As the structure that restricts the rotation of the swing arm 60 in the second rotation direction R2, a structure in which the surface of the intermediate folding member 2 is brought into abutment with the back surface of the operation piece 64 is not limiting.

[0098] For example, a structure in which a tab is provided to the intermediate folding member 2, and the tab is brought into abutment with the link wall 612 when the intermediate folding member 2 is housed in the watchband cover 40 to restrict the rotation in the second rotation direction R2, and thereby the rotation of the swing arm 60 can be restricted, can be employed.

[0099] As the structure that latches the intermediate folding member 2, a structure that uses the hook 21 having the claw portion 23 and the lock member 80 that slides is not limiting. For example, a structure in which a lock pin is provided to the intermediate folding member 2, the lock pin has a diameter larger than the shaft portion at the tip end of the shaft portion, and the lock pin is latched or unlatched by a button unit provided to the watchband cover 40 can be employed. That is, as long as it is a structure that can be latched in a state in which the intermediate folding member 2 is housed in the watchband cover 40.

[0100] In the above-described embodiments, the force for the rotation of the swing arm 60 and the force for moving the lock member 80 to the latching position are applied by the torsion spring 65, but the forces can be applied by separate springs, respectively. Also, a spring that moves the lock member 80 to the latching position and a spring that applies a force to the first button 71 and the second button 72 in a direction in which they are separated from each other can be provided, respectively.

[0101] Further, it is not necessary to provide a spring that applies a force to the swing arm 60 in the first rotation direction Rl. That is, when the intermediate folding member 2 is folded and housed in the clasp cover 40, the swing arm 60 is rotated in the first rotation direction Rl by the intermediate folding member 2 abutting against the operation piece 64, and the engagement claw 63 is engaged with the groove portion 53.

[0102] Further, the slide plate 50 is not limited to being guided by the guide groove 44 of the clasp cover 40. For example, a groove can be formed in the side surface of the slide plate 50, and a convex rail portion that is inserted in the groove of the slide plate 50 can be formed in the inner surface of the first side wall portion 42 and the second side wall portion 43. Further, the slide plate 50 is not limited to having the movement restriction portion 54 at the front end side.

[0103] The clasp 1 is not limited to a watchband, and can be used for a bracelet, a necklace, or the like.

[0104] [SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION]

[0105] The clasp of the present application is a clasp that links a first band and a second band, characterized by having: an intermediate folding member that is linked with the first band; a clasp cover that is linked with the intermediate folding member in a rotatable manner; a slide plate that is supported so as to be slidable with respect to the clasp cover in the length direction of the first band and the second band, and is linked with the second band; and a swing arm that is supported in a rotatable manner to the clasp cover, the slide plate having a plurality of groove portions provided along the length direction, the swing arm having: a base portion that is supported in a rotatable manner to the clasp cover; an arm portion that extends from the base portion to the slide plate side; an engagement claw that is provided to the arm portion and is capable of engaging with the groove portion of the slide plate; and an operation piece that extends from the base portion to a side opposite to the arm portion, the swing arm being supported so as to be rotatable in a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction, the first rotation direction being a direction in which the engagement claw engages in the groove portion, the second rotation direction being a direction in which the engagement claw is separated from the groove portion, the intermediate folding member having a protruding portion that abuts against the operation piece when the intermediate folding member is rotated with respect to the clasp cover, and rotates the swing arm in the second rotation direction.

[0106] According to the clasp of the present application, the intermediate folding member is detached from the clasp cover and is rotated, and the protruding portion of the intermediate folding member abuts against the operation piece of the swing arm. Further, the swing arm is rotated in the second rotation direction, and the engagement claw of the swing arm is separated from the groove portion of the slide plate. Therefore, the slide plate can be operated to change the length of the band, and the length of the band can be easily adjusted without operating a button.

[0107] In addition, since the number of components constituting the clasp is small, assembly is easy and cost reduction is possible. In addition, the length of the band can be adjusted in multiple stages at intervals of the grooves in accordance with the number of grooves, and the band length can be easily fitted to the wrist or the like of the user.

[0108] In the clasp of the present application, it is preferable that the groove be divided by a first vertical surface and a second vertical surface perpendicular to the sliding direction of the sliding plate, and the engagement claw have a first opposing surface opposing the first vertical surface in a state in which the engagement claw is engaged with the groove, and a second opposing surface opposing the second vertical surface in a state in which the engagement claw is engaged with the groove.

[0109] According to the clasp of the present application, the groove has a first vertical surface and a second vertical surface perpendicular to the sliding direction of the sliding plate, and the engagement claw has a first opposing surface and a second opposing surface. Here, the first opposing surface and the second opposing surface are surfaces perpendicular to the sliding direction since they oppose the respective vertical surfaces. Therefore, in a state in which the engagement claw is engaged with the groove, even if a force in the sliding direction is applied to the sliding plate, the first vertical surface abuts against the first opposing surface, or the second vertical surface abuts against the second opposing surface, thereby restricting movement of the sliding plate in the sliding direction. Therefore, the sliding plate does not move as long as the swing arm is not rotated in the second rotational direction by the intermediate folding member. Thus, it is possible to prevent the sliding plate from moving unexpectedly and changing the band length.

[0110] In the clasp of the present application, it is preferable that the intermediate folding member restrict rotation of the swing arm in the second rotational direction in a state in which the intermediate folding member is housed in the clasp cover.

[0111] According to the clasp of the present application, in a state in which the intermediate folding member is folded and housed in the clasp cover, rotation of the swing arm in the second rotational direction is restricted, for example, by abutting the intermediate folding member against the operation piece of the swing arm, and the like, and thus it is possible to maintain a state in which the engagement claw is engaged with the groove. Therefore, in a state in which the band is worn on the wrist or the like of the user, the sliding plate cannot be slid. That is, it is possible to reliably maintain a state in which the band length cannot be adjusted, and it is possible to reliably prevent the band length from changing when worn.

[0112] In addition, by abutting the intermediate folding member against the swing arm, or the like, rotation of the swing arm in the second rotational direction is restricted, and thus it is possible to reliably restrict rotation of the swing arm with a simple configuration.

[0113] In the clasp of the present application, it is preferable that the clasp have a spring applying a force in the first rotational direction to the swing arm.

[0114] The watchband according to the present application has a spring that exerts a force on the swing arm in the first rotational direction. Therefore, when the protruding portion of the intermediate folding member that abuts against the operation piece of the swing arm is caused to move away from the operation piece by rotating the intermediate folding member, the swing arm is rotated in the first rotational direction by the force of the spring, and the engagement claw can be engaged with the groove portion. Therefore, the engagement claw can be immediately engaged with the groove portion. Moreover, the intermediate folding member is rotated without the need to manually rotate the swing arm in the first rotational direction, and the sliding plate can also be prevented from moving to change the adjusted band length during the rotation operation.

[0115] In the watchband of the present application, it is preferable that the watchband be provided with a button unit having a lock member that is exerted with the force of the spring, and a first button and a second button that protrude from the watchband cover, a hook be provided on the intermediate folding member, the lock member exerts a force in a direction in which the first button and the second button are separated from each other when the lock member is exerted with the force of the spring, and moves to a hook-engaging position in which the hook is engaged, and the lock member moves to a hook-disengaging position in which the engagement of the hook is released when the first button and the second button are pressed.

[0116] The watchband according to the present application can reliably achieve the locked state and the released state in which the intermediate folding member is housed in the watchband cover, because a hook is provided on the intermediate folding member, and a lock member that moves between a hook-engaging position in which the hook is engaged and a hook-disengaging position in which the engagement of the hook is released is provided. Moreover, because the engagement and release of the hook are performed by the movement of the lock member, durability can be improved compared to cases in which the engagement and release are performed by deforming a side wall portion or the like of the watchband cover.

[0117] In addition, one spring is used as the spring that exerts a force on the swing arm in the first rotational direction and the spring that exerts a force on the lock member in the hook-engaging position. Moreover, the first button and the second button are caused to be exerted with a force in a direction in which they are separated from each other by causing the lock member to move to the hook-engaging position. Therefore, compared to cases in which different springs are used to exert the forces, the number of components can be reduced, assembly is easy, and costs can be reduced.

[0118] In the watchband of the present application, it is preferable that the watchband cover have a surface portion, a first side wall portion, and a second side wall portion, a guide groove that extends in the length direction be formed in the inner side surfaces of the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion, and the sliding plate have a plate portion that is inserted into the guide groove.

[0119] According to the watchband of the present application, the slide plate is stably moved by inserting the plate portion of the slide plate into the guide groove, so that the length adjustment of the band can also be stably and smoothly performed. In addition, since the moving range of the slide plate can be set by the guide groove, the damage of each component due to the collision of the slide plate with other components can also be inhibited.

[0120] In the watchband of the present application, it is preferable that the slide plate is provided with a moving restriction portion which is continuously provided with the groove portion, the moving restriction portion has a restriction surface which is perpendicular to the sliding direction of the slide plate and protrudes more than the groove portion, and the engagement claw has an abutting surface which abuts against the restriction surface.

[0121] According to the watchband of the present application, the opposing surface of the engagement claw of the swing arm abuts against the restriction surface, so that the movement of the slide plate can be restricted. Therefore, when the slide plate is moved to adjust the length of the band, the engagement claw of the swing arm can be prevented from being detached from the slide plate.

[0122] The watch of the present application is characterized by being provided with the aforementioned watchband.

[0123] According to the watch of the present application, since the aforementioned watchband is provided, the aforementioned effects are exerted, the adjustment operation of the length of the band can be easily performed, and the watch can be applied to various watches.

Claims

1. A buckle that links a first band and a second band, characterized by comprising: an intermediate folding member that is linked to the first band; a buckle cover that is rotatably linked to the intermediate folding member; a slide plate that is supported so as to be slidable with respect to the buckle cover in a length direction of the first band and the second band, and is linked to the second band; and a swing arm that is rotatably supported to the buckle cover, the slide plate has a plurality of groove portions provided along the length direction, the swing arm has a base portion that is rotatably supported to the buckle cover, an arm portion that extends from the base portion to the slide plate side, an engagement claw that is provided to the arm portion and is engageable with the groove portion of the slide plate, and an operation piece that extends from the base portion to a side opposite to the arm portion, the swing arm is supported so as to be rotatable in a first rotation direction in which the engagement claw is engaged into the groove portion, and a second rotation direction in which the engagement claw is disengaged from the groove portion, the intermediate folding member has a protruding portion that abuts against the operation piece when the intermediate folding member is detached from the buckle cover and is rotated with respect to the buckle cover, and the swing arm is rotated in the second rotation direction.

2. The buckle according to claim 1, characterized in that the groove portion is divided by a first vertical surface and a second vertical surface that are perpendicular to a sliding direction of the slide plate, the engagement claw has a first facing surface that faces the first vertical surface in a state in which the engagement claw is engaged with the groove portion, and a second facing surface that faces the second vertical surface in the state in which the engagement claw is engaged with the groove portion.

3. The buckle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the intermediate folding member restricts the swing arm from being rotated in the second rotation direction in a state in which the intermediate folding member is accommodated in the buckle cover.

4. The buckle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the buckle has a spring that applies a force to the swing arm in the first rotation direction.

5. The buckle according to claim 4, characterized in that the buckle has a button unit that has a locking member that is applied with a force by the spring, and a first button and a second button that protrude from the buckle cover, the intermediate folding member is provided with a hook, in a state in which the locking member is applied with the force by the spring, the locking member applies a force in a direction in which the first button and the second button are separated from each other, and moves to a locking position in which the hook is latched, and when the first button and the second button are pressed, the locking member moves to a releasing position in which the latching of the hook is released against the force of the spring.

6. The buckle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the buckle cover has a surface portion, a first side wall portion, and a second side wall portion, a guide groove that extends in the length direction is formed in inner side surfaces of the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion, ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The slide plate has a plate portion inserted into the guide groove.

7. The clasp according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The slide plate has a movement restriction portion provided continuously with the groove portion, The movement restriction portion has a restriction surface perpendicular to the slide direction of the slide plate and protruding more than the groove portion, and the engagement claw has an abutting surface abutting against the restriction surface.

8. A timepiece, characterized by The timepiece has the clasp according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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