Automatic time announcement structure of a watch

Abstract

The application discloses an automatic time reporting structure of a watch, which comprises a time reporting mechanism, a starting mechanism, a driving mechanism, a stop mechanism and a control mechanism. The starting mechanism is arranged correspondingly to the time reporting mechanism, and the starting mechanism can move between an initial position and at least one time reporting starting position. The starting mechanism can drive the time reporting mechanism to report time when moving from the time reporting starting position to the initial position. The driving mechanism is arranged correspondingly to the starting mechanism, and the driving mechanism can drive the starting mechanism to move from the time reporting starting position to the initial position. The control mechanism is arranged correspondingly to the driving mechanism and the starting mechanism respectively, and the control mechanism can control the driving mechanism, the stop mechanism and the starting mechanism, and control the starting mechanism to move to the corresponding time reporting starting position. The automatic time reporting mechanism of the watch is ingenious in design, good in process and simple in assembly, and is suitable for large-scale production. In addition, the safety unit is arranged, so that the time reporting mechanism can be protected in special conditions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of mechanical watches, and more particularly to an automatic timekeeping structure for a wristwatch. Background Technology

[0002] Automatic chiming is a very common function in mechanical clocks. Due to its placement, the automatic chiming structure of a mechanical clock can be designed using the weight of its components, and mechanical clocks have ample space and power reserves for this structure.

[0003] With social development and rising consumer demands, watches capable of automatic timekeeping have emerged. However, existing mechanical watches with automatic timekeeping capabilities are complex in structure, have numerous functions, are expensive, and are difficult to manufacture and assemble.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to design a mechanical watch with a simple structure and low cost that can automatically tell the time. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides an automatic timekeeping structure for a watch, which features good manufacturability, simple assembly, and suitability for mass production. The specific technical solution is as follows:

[0006] An automatic timekeeping mechanism for a watch includes:

[0007] Timekeeping institutions;

[0008] A starting mechanism is provided in correspondence with the time-announcing mechanism. The starting mechanism can move between an initial position and at least one time-announcing starting position. When the starting mechanism moves from the time-announcing starting position to the initial position, it can drive the time-announcing mechanism to announce the time.

[0009] The drive mechanism is configured in correspondence with the starting mechanism. The drive mechanism has a drive state and a disengagement state. When the drive mechanism is in the drive state, the drive mechanism and the starting mechanism are connected to each other. The drive mechanism can drive the starting mechanism to move from the timekeeping start position to the initial position and maintain it in the initial position. When the drive mechanism is in the disengagement state, the drive mechanism and the starting mechanism are separated from each other. The starting mechanism moves from the initial position to the timekeeping start position.

[0010] A stop mechanism is provided, which is corresponding to the starting mechanism. The stop mechanism has a limit state and a separation state. When the stop mechanism is in the limit state, the stop mechanism and the starting mechanism are in contact to restrict the starting mechanism from moving towards the time alarm starting position. When the stop mechanism is in the separation state, the stop mechanism and the starting mechanism are separated to release the restriction on the starting mechanism.

[0011] The control mechanism is respectively set with the drive mechanism, the stop mechanism and the start mechanism. When the start mechanism is in the initial position, the control mechanism can control the drive mechanism and the stop mechanism to be in a separated state and control the start mechanism to move to the corresponding time-announcing start position. When the start mechanism is in the time-announcing start position, the drive mechanism is in the drive state and the stop mechanism is in the limit state. The drive mechanism drives the start mechanism to move from the time-announcing start position to the initial position, and the start mechanism drives the time-announcing mechanism to announce the time.

[0012] Furthermore, the starting mechanism includes a starting plate. When the driving mechanism is in the driving state, the driving mechanism and the starting plate are connected to each other, and the driving mechanism continuously provides reset power to the starting plate. A third limiting component is provided at the initial position of the starting plate. The driving mechanism pushes the starting plate against the third limiting component, thereby keeping the starting plate in the initial position.

[0013] Furthermore, the starting mechanism includes a first reset structure, and the starting plate is connected to the first reset structure. When the starting plate is in the initial position, the first reset structure is in a compressed state. When the driving mechanism is in a disengaged state, the driving mechanism and the starting plate are separated from each other, and the first reset structure can drive the starting plate to move from the initial position to the timekeeping start position.

[0014] Furthermore, the starter plate is provided with a first toothed portion, and the drive mechanism includes a drive wheel with a first first pin on the drive wheel. When the drive wheel rotates, the first first pin can engage with the first toothed portion to push the starter plate to move to the initial position.

[0015] Furthermore, the start plate is provided with a second tooth, and the time-telling mechanism includes a time-telling pawl. When the start plate moves from the time-telling start position to the initial position, the second tooth can engage with the time-telling pawl to make the time-telling mechanism tell the time.

[0016] Furthermore, a transmission unit is provided between the control mechanism and the drive mechanism. The transmission unit includes a first transmission component and a second transmission component. The first end of the first transmission component is correspondingly disposed with the control mechanism, the second end of the first transmission component is correspondingly disposed with the first end of the second transmission component, and the second end of the second transmission component is correspondingly disposed with the drive mechanism. The control mechanism moves the first transmission component, the first transmission component drives the second transmission component to move, and the second transmission component pushes the drive mechanism to move, so that the drive mechanism is in a disengaged state.

[0017] Furthermore, the reset end of the stop mechanism is correspondingly set to the third end of the first transmission member, and the limiting end of the stop mechanism is correspondingly set to the starting mechanism. The control mechanism moves the first transmission member, and the first transmission member synchronously drives the second transmission member and the stop mechanism to move, so that the stop mechanism and the drive mechanism are simultaneously in a separated state.

[0018] Furthermore, the stop mechanism includes a fourth reset structure. When the control mechanism actuates the first transmission component and drives the stop mechanism to move, the fourth reset structure is in a compressed state. When the control mechanism is separated from the first transmission component, the fourth reset structure can drive the stop mechanism to reset to the limit state.

[0019] Furthermore, it also includes a safety unit, which is correspondingly set with the starting mechanism. The safety unit has a safety open position and a safety closed position. When the safety unit is in the safety open position, the safety unit and the starting mechanism are connected to each other to lock the position of the starting mechanism; when the safety unit is in the safety closed position, the safety unit and the starting mechanism are separated to release the lock on the starting mechanism.

[0020] Furthermore, the safety unit includes a safety lever and a pull stop pin. One end of the safety lever is correspondingly set to the starting mechanism, and the other end is connected to the pull stop pin. The pull stop pin is connected to the time adjustment unit, which can drive the safety lever to move between the safety closed position and the safety open position through the pull stop pin.

[0021] Furthermore, the end of the safety bar is provided with an arc-shaped safety hook, and the starting mechanism includes a third limiting pin. The safety hook can be engaged with the third limiting pin to lock the position of the starting mechanism. When the safety unit is in the safety open position, the end of the safety hook is located between the first and second tracks of the third limiting pin to protect the automatic timekeeping structure.

[0022] Furthermore, there are multiple time-telling start positions, with different time-telling start positions corresponding to different times. The control mechanism includes a first limit component, which is connected to the hour wheel of the watch and rotates with the hour wheel. The first limit component is provided with multiple limit parts, each of which corresponds to a time-telling start position. The start mechanism includes a second limit component. When the start mechanism moves from the initial position to the corresponding time-telling start position, the second limit component can abut against the corresponding limit part on the first limit component.

[0023] The automatic chiming mechanism of this invention is ingeniously designed, easy to manufacture, and simple to assemble, making it suitable for mass production. Furthermore, by incorporating a safety unit, the automatic chiming mechanism can be prevented from jamming during the time adjustment process by pulling out the crown, thus enhancing safety. Moreover, this structure will not damage the chiming mechanism even if a misoperation occurs during the chiming process.

[0024] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of the present invention. In order to better understand the technical means of the present invention and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and in order to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the initial position of the automatic timekeeping mechanism of the watch according to the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the start-up position of the automatic timekeeping mechanism of the watch according to the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state of the automatic time-telling mechanism of the watch according to the present invention during the time-telling process;

[0029] Figure 4 A perspective view of the automatic timekeeping mechanism of the watch according to the present invention in use;

[0030] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Enlarged view of a portion of the image;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the safety structure and the starter plate in this invention. Figure 1 ;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the safety structure and the starter plate in this invention. Figure 2 ;

[0033] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the safety structure and the starter plate in this invention. Figure 3 ;

[0034] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram comparing the initial state and the time-telling process of the automatic time-telling mechanism of the watch of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0036] To better understand the purpose, function, and specific design of this invention, the automatic timekeeping structure of the watch of this invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] like Figures 1-10As shown, the automatic time-telling structure of the watch of the present invention includes a time-telling mechanism, a starting mechanism, a driving mechanism, a stop mechanism, and a control mechanism. The starting mechanism is correspondingly arranged with the time-telling mechanism, and the starting mechanism can move between an initial position and at least one time-telling starting position. When the starting mechanism moves from the time-telling starting position to the initial position, it can drive the time-telling mechanism to tell the time.

[0038] Furthermore, the drive mechanism and the starting mechanism are correspondingly configured. The drive mechanism has a drive state and a disengagement state. When the drive mechanism is in the drive state, the drive mechanism and the starting mechanism are connected to each other. The drive mechanism can drive the starting mechanism to move from the timekeeping start position to the initial position and remain in the initial position. When the drive mechanism is in the disengagement state, the drive mechanism and the starting mechanism are separated from each other, and the starting mechanism moves from the initial position to the timekeeping start position.

[0039] Furthermore, the stop mechanism and the starting mechanism are respectively set. The stop mechanism has a limited state and a separated state. When the stop mechanism is in the limited state, the stop mechanism and the starting mechanism are in contact to restrict the starting mechanism from moving towards the time alarm starting position. When the stop mechanism is in the separated state, the stop mechanism and the starting mechanism are separated to release the restriction on the starting mechanism.

[0040] Furthermore, the control mechanism is respectively set with the drive mechanism, the stop mechanism and the start mechanism. When the start mechanism is in the initial position, the control mechanism can control the drive mechanism and the stop mechanism to be in a separated state, and control the start mechanism to move to the corresponding time-announcing start position. When the start mechanism is in the time-announcing start position, the drive mechanism is in the drive state and the stop mechanism is in the limit state. The drive mechanism drives the start mechanism to move from the time-announcing start position to the initial position, and the start mechanism drives the time-announcing mechanism to announce the time.

[0041] Specifically, such as Figures 1-3 As shown, the starting mechanism includes a starting plate 100, which is connected to a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism continuously provides reset power to the starting plate 100, meaning it can drive the starting mechanism to move from the alarm start position to the initial position. A third limiting component, namely the first eccentric pin 291 shown in the figure, is provided at the initial position of the starting plate 100. The drive mechanism pushes the starting plate 100 against the first eccentric pin 291, thereby keeping the starting plate 100 stationary in the initial position.

[0042] The drive mechanism corresponds to the second end of the second transmission member 140 in the transmission unit described below. When the start dial 120 of the control mechanism moves the transmission unit, the drive mechanism can be moved by the second end of the second transmission member 140 to separate the drive mechanism from the start plate 100. The start plate 100 can then move to the alarm start position under the action of the first reset structure 210 described below. It is understood that the position of the first eccentric pin 291 can be adjusted according to specific assembly requirements to adjust the initial position of the start plate 100. It is understood that the first eccentric pin 291 is not limited to this limiting form, and other adjustable limiting forms can also be used, such as movable protrusions, as long as they can play an adjustable limiting role for the start plate 100.

[0043] The starting mechanism includes a first reset structure 210, and the starting plate 100 is connected to the first reset structure 210. The first reset structure 210 is an elastic structure, such as a spring or a sheet spring. One end of the first reset structure 210 is fixedly connected to the clamping plate, and the other end is connected to the starting plate 100. When the driving mechanism pushes the starting plate 100 to the initial position, the starting plate 100 squeezes the first reset structure 210, so that the first reset structure 210 is in a compressed state. When the driving mechanism and the starting plate 100 are separated under the drive of the control mechanism, the first reset structure 210 resets, so as to push the starting plate 100 to move to the time alarm start position.

[0044] The start plate 100 includes a connecting part and a working part, which are connected in a "7" shape in this embodiment. The end of the connecting part away from the working part is hinged to the clamping plate, and the start plate 100 can move between the initial position and the alarm start position around the hinge position. In this embodiment, one end of the first reset structure 210 is fixed to the clamping plate, and the other end is connected to the connecting part to drive the start plate 100 to move to the alarm start position.

[0045] like Figures 4-5 As shown, the inner and outer sides of the working part of the starter plate 100 are respectively provided with a first toothed portion B and a second toothed portion A. The second toothed portion A is connected to the time-telling mechanism, and the first toothed portion B is connected to the drive mechanism. The drive mechanism includes a drive wheel 160, and a first pin 161 is provided on the front of the drive wheel 160. The first pin 161 intermittently meshes with the first toothed portion B of the starter plate 100. During the time-telling period, the drive wheel 160 rotates one revolution, and the first pin 161 meshes with the first toothed portion B of the starter plate 100 once, while moving the starter plate 100 one tooth distance towards the initial position. When the starter plate 100 abuts against the first eccentric pin 291, the drive wheel 160 stops rotating, and the starter plate 100 remains stationary in the initial position, waiting for the next time-telling to start.

[0046] In this embodiment, the drive wheel 160 is connected to the time-announcing speed-limiting wheel system 500, which is connected to the time-announcing prime mover assembly. The prime mover assembly continuously provides clockwise rotational power to the drive wheel 160. The time-announcing speed-limiting wheel system 500 can limit the rotational speed of the drive wheel 160, ensuring that the drive wheel 160 rotates at a uniform speed during the time-announcing period, thereby guaranteeing that the starting plate 100 moves towards the initial position at a uniform speed and intermittently. It is understood that the drive wheel 160 can also be connected to other commonly used transmission elements and drive elements, as long as they can continuously provide rotational power to the drive wheel 160; no restrictions are imposed here.

[0047] like Figures 1-4 As shown, the time-telling mechanism includes a weight 170 and a reed 200. When the starting plate 100 moves to the initial position, it drives the weight 170 to strike the reed 200, thereby producing a time-telling sound. Specifically, the weight 170 is hinged to the clamping plate, and a time-telling claw 171 is provided at the hinge position. The time-telling claw 171 is connected to the weight 170 and can engage with the second tooth A of the starting plate 100. When the starting plate 100 moves to the initial position, the second tooth A drives the time-telling claw 171 to rotate, thereby pushing the weight 170 to strike the reed 200.

[0048] In this embodiment, the hammer 170 is connected to the sixth reset structure 270, which is an elastic structure, such as a spring or a spring sheet. One end of the sixth reset structure 270 is fixedly connected to the clamping plate, and the other end is connected to the hammer 170. When the starting plate 100 moves to the initial position, the second tooth A drives the chiming claw 171 to rotate and pushes the hammer 170 to rotate away from the sound spring. At this time, the sixth reset structure 270 gradually compresses and stores power. When the second tooth A of the starting plate 100 disengages from the chiming claw 171, the sixth reset structure 270 drives the hammer 170 to strike the sound spring 200.

[0049] The chiming pawl 171 in this embodiment includes a first connecting end and a second connecting end. The first connecting end can engage with the second tooth A of the starter plate 100, and the second connecting end can abut against the weight 170. When the starter plate 100 moves to the initial position, the second tooth A engages with the first connecting end, thereby driving the chiming pawl 171 to rotate counterclockwise. The second connecting end abuts against the weight 170 to push the weight 170 to rotate away from the sound reed. When the starter plate 100 moves to the chiming start position, the second tooth A engages with the first connecting end, thereby driving the chiming pawl 171 to rotate clockwise. At this time, the second connecting end moves away from the weight 170, thus not pushing the weight 170 to move.

[0050] Preferably, the alarm pawl 171 is connected to the second reset structure 220, which is an elastic structure, such as a spring or a sheet. One end of the second reset structure 220 is fixedly connected to the clamping plate, and the other end is connected to the alarm pawl 171. When the starter plate 100 moves to the alarm start position, the second tooth A drives the alarm pawl 171 to rotate. At this time, the second reset structure 220 is gradually compressed. When the second tooth A of the starter plate 100 disengages from the alarm pawl 171, the second reset structure 220 drives the alarm pawl 171 to reset, waiting for the next engagement.

[0051] It is worth noting that a limiting rod 280 is also provided between the hammer 170 and the reed 200. The limiting rod 280 is fixedly connected to the clamping plate. When the hammer 170 strikes the reed 200, it can abut against the limiting rod 280, thus limiting the striking depth of the hammer 170. The limiting rod 280 is connected to the second eccentric pin 292, which can adjust the position of the limiting rod 280. It is understood that the second eccentric pin 292 is not limited to this limiting form; other adjustable limiting forms can also be used, such as movable protrusions, as long as they can achieve the adjustable limiting function of the limiting rod 280.

[0052] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the watch features an hour wheel and a minute wheel. The hour wheel is connected to the hour hand, and the minute wheel is connected to the minute hand. The hour and minute hands are used to display the current time. The control mechanism includes a starter dial 120, which is circular. A starter protrusion is provided on the side wall of the circular dial. The starter protrusion corresponds to the first end C of the first transmission member 130 in the transmission unit described below. The starter dial 120 is connected to the minute wheel and rotates synchronously with it. When the starter dial 120 rotates one revolution, the starter protrusion will move the first end C of the first transmission member 130, thereby moving the transmission unit once and realizing automatic timekeeping on the hour.

[0053] In this embodiment, there are multiple time-announcing start positions, each corresponding to a different time. The control mechanism includes a first limiting component, which is connected to the hour wheel of the watch and rotates with the hour wheel. The first limiting component has multiple limiting parts, each corresponding to a time-announcing start position. The starting mechanism includes a second limiting component, which, when moving from its initial position to the corresponding time-announcing start position, abuts against the corresponding limiting part on the first limiting component.

[0054] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first limiting component is a chiming cam 110. The chiming cam 110 is connected to the hour wheel and rotates synchronously with it. The chiming cam 110 has 12 steps of increasing depth, with each step corresponding to one hour. One rotation of the start dial 120 driven by the hour wheel represents one hour, and one rotation of the chiming cam 110 driven by the hour wheel also represents one hour. The steps of the chiming cam 110 correspond to the second limiting component of the starting mechanism described below, namely the positioning head 101. Different step depths limit the chiming start position of the starting mechanism.

[0055] The starting mechanism includes a positioning head 101, which is mounted on the starting plate 100. When the starting plate 100 moves to the timekeeping start position, the positioning head 101 can abut against the step on the timekeeping cam 110 to limit the timekeeping start position of the starting plate 100 for this timekeeping. Since the timekeeping cam is provided with 12 steps of increasing depth, the starting plate 100 has 12 timekeeping start positions. Since the moving distance of the starting plate 100 to the initial position is different, it can perform hourly timekeeping for each of the 12 hours.

[0056] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the transmission unit includes a first transmission component 130 and a second transmission component 140. One end of the first transmission component 130 corresponds to the starter dial 120, and the other end is connected to the second transmission component 140. The second transmission component 140 is connected to the drive mechanism. The starter dial 120 moves by moving the first transmission component 130, thereby driving the second transmission component 140 to push the drive mechanism to separate from the starter plate 100.

[0057] Specifically, the first transmission member 130 is hinged to the clamping plate. At the hinge point, the first transmission member 130 has three rod-like structures extending away from the hinge point: a second end A, a third end B, and a first end C. The first end C corresponds to the starting dial 120. One rotation of the starting dial 120 causes the first end C of the first transmission member 130 to lift upwards once, thereby driving the first transmission member 130 to rotate counterclockwise once.

[0058] The second end A of the first transmission member 130 is connected to the second transmission member 140, which is hinged to the clamping plate. The second transmission member 140 has two rod-like structures extending away from the hinge point at the hinged position, namely the first end and the second end. The second end A of the first transmission member 130 is connected to the first end of the second transmission member 140, and the second end of the second transmission member 140 is connected to the drive wheel 160. Specifically, the first end of the second transmission member 140 is provided with a third positioning pin, and the second end A of the first transmission member 130 can abut against the third positioning pin, so that when the first transmission member 130 rotates counterclockwise, it can push the second transmission member 140 to rotate clockwise.

[0059] like Figure 5 As shown, a second pin 162 is provided on the back of the drive wheel 160. The second end of the second transmission member 140 can abut against the second pin 162, so that when the second transmission member 140 rotates clockwise, it can push the drive wheel 160 to rotate counterclockwise, thereby separating the first pin 161 of the drive wheel 160 from the first tooth portion B of the starter plate 100. It is worth noting that since the prime mover continuously provides clockwise rotation power to the drive wheel 160, the torque provided by the starter dial 120 needs to be greater than the clockwise rotation torque of the drive wheel 160 so that the starter dial 120 can drive the drive wheel 160 to rotate counterclockwise through the first transmission member 130 and the second transmission member 140. The specific torque value is calculated based on the actual situation and will not be elaborated here.

[0060] It is worth noting that the first transmission member 130 includes a fifth reset structure 260, which is an elastic structure, such as a spring or a spring plate. One end of the fifth reset structure 260 is fixedly connected to the clamping plate, and the other end is connected to the first transmission member 130. In this embodiment, the fifth reset structure 260 is connected to the first end C of the first transmission member 130. When the watch is set, when the minute wheel drives the starter head 120 to rotate in the opposite direction, it drives the first transmission member 130 to rotate counterclockwise and compress the fifth reset structure 260. The starter head moves the first transmission member 130 downward, and the fifth reset structure 260 is in a compressed state. When the starter head 120 is separated from the first transmission member 130, the fifth reset structure 260 can drive the first transmission member 130 to reset.

[0061] The second transmission component 140 is connected to a third reset structure 230, which is an elastic structure, such as a spring or a spring plate. One end of the third reset structure 230 is fixedly connected to a clamping plate, and the other end is connected to the second transmission component 140. When the starting dial 120 moves the first end C of the first transmission component 130 upward, the first transmission component 130 pushes the second transmission component 140 to rotate clockwise and compress the third reset structure 230. After the starting dial 120 separates from the first end C of the first transmission component 130, the third reset structure 230 can drive the second transmission component 140 and the first transmission component 130 to reset, waiting for the next movement of the starting dial 120.

[0062] Specifically, the stopping mechanism in this embodiment is a pawl 150. The pawl 150 can engage with the first tooth portion B of the starter plate 100. The pawl 150 can restrict the movement direction of the starter plate 100. When the starter plate 100 moves to the initial position, the drive wheel 160 and the starter plate 100 are intermittently engaged. Therefore, the drive wheel 160 and the starter plate 100 will be briefly separated. At this time, the first reset structure 210 will drive the starter plate 100 to move backward (towards the timekeeping start position). The pawl 150 can prevent the starter plate 100 from moving backward, i.e., the limit state.

[0063] The pawl 150 is hinged to the clamping plate. At the hinge point, the pawl 150 extends two rod-like structures away from the hinge point: a limiting rod and a reset rod, which are the reset end and limiting end of the stop mechanism, respectively. The limiting rod abuts against the first tooth B of the starting plate 100 to restrict the movement direction of the starting plate 100. The tooth surface of the first tooth B of the starting plate 100 near the pawl 150 abuts against the end face of the limiting rod to prevent the starting plate 100 from retracting. The tooth surface of the first tooth B of the starting plate 100 away from the pawl 150 is inclined, and the side of the limiting rod can slide against the inclined tooth surface. When the starting plate 100 moves to the initial position, it drives the pawl 150 to rotate clockwise, causing the first tooth B of the starting plate 100 to separate from the pawl 150. Therefore, the pawl 150 does not restrict the movement of the starting plate 100 towards the initial position.

[0064] The reset rod of the pawl 150 is connected to the fourth reset structure 240, which is an elastic structure, such as a spring or a spring sheet. One end of the fourth reset structure 240 is fixedly connected to the clamping plate, and the other end is connected to the pawl 150. In this embodiment, the fourth reset structure 240 is connected to the reset rod of the pawl 150. When the starting plate 100 moves to the initial position, the starting plate 100 can drive the pawl 150 to rotate clockwise, so as to compress the fourth reset structure 240. After the first tooth B of the starting plate 100 separates from the pawl 150, the fourth reset structure 240 can drive the pawl 150 to reset and engage with the next tooth on the B side of the starting plate 100 to continue to limit the starting plate 100. The reset rod of the pawl 150 can be connected to the second limiting pin 294, which is fixedly connected to the clamping plate. The second limiting pin 294 can restrict the position of the pawl 150 so that the reset pawl 150 can engage with the first tooth portion B of the starting plate 100. It is understood that the second limiting pin 294 can also be located at the position of the limiting rod, as long as it allows the reset pawl 150 to engage with the first tooth portion B of the starting plate 100. Furthermore, it is not limited to the limiting form of the second limiting pin 294; other limiting forms, such as protrusions, can also be used, as long as they can effectively limit the position of the pawl 150.

[0065] It is worth noting that the reset lever of the pawl 150 also corresponds to the third end B of the first transmission member 130. When the starter dial 120 moves the first end C of the first transmission member 130 upward, the third end B of the first transmission member 130 rotates counterclockwise and moves the reset lever of the pawl 150 clockwise, thereby separating the pawl 150 from the first tooth B of the starter plate 100. At this time, the fourth reset structure 240 is compressed, i.e., in a separated state, to release the restriction on the starter plate 100. Thus, the starter plate 100 can move to the alarm start position under the drive of the first reset structure 210. When the starter dial 120 separates from the first end C of the first transmission member 130, the fourth reset structure 240 restores its shape to drive the pawl 150 to reset to the limited state.

[0066] The automatic timekeeping structure in this embodiment also includes a safety unit, which is correspondingly arranged with the starting mechanism. The safety unit has a safety open position and a safety closed position. When the safety unit is in the safety open position, the safety unit and the starting mechanism are connected to each other to lock the position of the starting mechanism. When the safety unit is in the safety closed position, the safety unit and the starting mechanism are separated to release the lock on the starting mechanism.

[0067] Specifically, such as Figures 6-9 As shown, the start plate 100 is connected to the safety unit, which can lock the start plate to prevent the start plate 100 from moving toward the chiming start position when the watch is being set, which would cause the positioning head 101 and the chiming cam 110 to collide.

[0068] Specifically, the safety unit includes a safety lever 300, which is hinged to a positioning pin tube at its middle position. The positioning pin tube is fixed to a clamping plate. The safety lever 300 can move between a safety closed position and a safety open position. When the safety lever 300 is in the safety open position, one end of the safety lever 300 engages with the starter plate 100 to lock the starter plate 100. When the safety lever 300 is in the safety closed position, one end of the safety lever 300 disengages from the starter plate 100, and the control mechanism can control the starter plate 100 to move from its initial position to the alarm start position.

[0069] A safety hook is provided at one end of the safety bar 300, which can be engaged with the starter plate 100 to restrict the movement of the starter plate 100. In this embodiment, the starter plate 100 is provided with a third limiting pin 295, and the safety hook can be engaged with the third limiting pin 295. It can be understood that the shape of the starter plate 100 can also be directly changed to engage with the safety bar 300, as long as it can effectively limit the movement of the starter plate 100.

[0070] The other end of the safety bar 300 is connected to a pull stop pin 400, which drives the safety bar to rotate. In this embodiment, the pull stop pin 400 is fixedly mounted on the safety drive plate 401. When the safety drive plate 401 moves, the pull stop pin 400 can drive the safety bar 300 to rotate, so that the safety bar 300 moves between the safety closed position and the safety open position. The safety drive plate 401 is connected to a time adjustment unit, which includes a handle. The handle can drive the safety drive plate 401 to move. When the handle is pulled out for time adjustment, the safety drive plate 401 drives the safety bar to rotate and engage with the third limiting pin 295 of the starter plate 100 to achieve the safety function.

[0071] It is worth noting that, such as Figure 6 As shown, when the starting mechanism moves, the trajectory of the center point of the third limit pin 295 is the first trajectory, i.e., the dotted line of the outer ring, and the trajectory of the inner edge point of the third limit pin 295 is the second trajectory, i.e., the dotted line of the inner ring. The safety hook is in the inner side of the second trajectory when it is in the safety closed position. At this time, the starting plate 100 can move freely without colliding with the safety hook.

[0072] like Figure 7 As shown, when no time is announced and the shank is pulled out, the safety hook is in the safety open position and is engaged with the third limit pin 295 on the start plate 100. At this time, the start plate 100 cannot be moved at will. Therefore, even during the time adjustment process, when the start dial 120 moves the transmission unit to separate the drive mechanism from the start plate 100, the system cannot announce the time, thus preventing collision failure.

[0073] Preferably, in this embodiment, the side of the safety hook that contacts the third limiting pin 295 on the starter plate 100 is designed in an arc shape. The safety opening position of the arc-shaped safety hook is located between the first and second tracks of the starter plate 100, such as... Figures 8-9 The dotted line shown represents the trajectory that the center of the limiting pin 295 of the starter plate 100 can travel. At this time, the contact between the safety hook and the third limiting pin 295 is smooth, and the watch user can push the crown back at any time. Even if the safety hook collides with the third limiting pin 295, it will not damage the timekeeping system.

[0074] The safety hook on the safety bar 300 is designed so that when the time is not announced, the handle can be pulled out and the safety hook can hook the third limit pin 295. Even if the handle is accidentally pulled out or pushed back during the time announcement, the existing structure will not be damaged and the starter plate 100 will not be affected in returning to its initial position.

[0075] In actual time adjustment work, the working process of the insurance unit can be divided into the following three situations:

[0076] In the first scenario: when the time is not being announced and the needle needs to be turned clockwise, as the shank is pulled out, the pull stop pin 400 on the safety drive plate 401 drives the safety lever 300 to rotate. The end with the safety hook hooks onto the third limit pin 295 on the starter plate 100, preventing its rotation. Therefore, when the starter dial 120 initiates the entire timekeeping system, the system cannot announce the time because the starter plate 100 cannot rotate, thus preventing collision-related malfunctions.

[0077] In the second scenario, when there is no time announcement and the needle needs to be turned counterclockwise, the movement of the safety lever 300 is as described above. The starter lever 120 rotates counterclockwise to move the first starter lever 130, which then rotates clockwise without contacting the second starter lever 140 or the pawl 150. The fourth reset structure 260 provides the restoring force. When the counterclockwise needle movement is completed, the first starter lever 130 returns to its stationary position, and the system will not announce the time.

[0078] In the third scenario, when the crank is pulled out for adjustment during the timekeeping process, the starter plate 100 is already in the process of being raised, and its third limiting pin 295 will come into contact with the safety hook of the safety bar 300. Since the outer side of the safety hook in this embodiment is set in an arc shape, the outer side of the safety hook and the third limiting pin 295 make smooth contact. At this time, the crank can be pushed back directly to return the starter plate 100 to its original position without damaging the timekeeping system.

[0079] The automatic chiming mechanism of this invention is ingeniously designed, easy to manufacture, and simple to assemble, making it suitable for mass production. Furthermore, by incorporating a safety unit, the automatic chiming mechanism can be prevented from jamming during the time adjustment process by pulling out the crown, thus enhancing safety. Moreover, this structure will not damage the chiming mechanism even if a misoperation occurs during the chiming process.

[0080] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automatic time-telling structure for a watch, characterized in that, include: Timekeeping institutions; A starting mechanism is provided in correspondence with the time-announcing mechanism. The starting mechanism can move between an initial position and at least one time-announcing starting position. When the starting mechanism moves from the time-announcing starting position to the initial position, it can drive the time-announcing mechanism to announce the time. The drive mechanism is configured in correspondence with the starting mechanism. The drive mechanism has a drive state and a disengagement state. When the drive mechanism is in the drive state, the drive mechanism and the starting mechanism are connected to each other. The drive mechanism can drive the starting mechanism to move from the timekeeping start position to the initial position and maintain it in the initial position. When the drive mechanism is in the disengagement state, the drive mechanism and the starting mechanism are separated from each other. The starting mechanism moves from the initial position to the timekeeping start position. A stop mechanism is provided, which is corresponding to the starting mechanism. The stop mechanism has a limit state and a separation state. When the stop mechanism is in the limit state, the stop mechanism and the starting mechanism are in contact to restrict the starting mechanism from moving towards the time alarm starting position. When the stop mechanism is in the separation state, the stop mechanism and the starting mechanism are separated to release the restriction on the starting mechanism. The control mechanism is respectively set with the drive mechanism, the stop mechanism and the start mechanism. When the start mechanism is in the initial position, the control mechanism can control the drive mechanism and the stop mechanism to be in a separated state, and control the start mechanism to move to the corresponding time-announcing start position. When the start mechanism is in the time-announcing start position, the drive mechanism is in the driving state and the stop mechanism is in the limit state. The drive mechanism drives the start mechanism to move from the time-announcing start position to the initial position, and the start mechanism drives the time-announcing mechanism to announce the time. The starting mechanism includes a starting plate. When the drive mechanism is in the driving state, the drive mechanism and the starting plate are connected to each other, and the drive mechanism continuously provides reset power to the starting plate. It also includes a safety unit, which is configured to correspond with the starting mechanism. The safety unit has a safety open position and a safety closed position.

2. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 1, characterized in that, A third limiting component is provided at the initial position of the starter plate. The drive mechanism pushes the starter plate against the third limiting component, thereby keeping the starter plate in the initial position.

3. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 2, characterized in that, The starting mechanism includes a first reset structure, and the starting plate is connected to the first reset structure. When the starting plate is in the initial position, the first reset structure is in a compressed state. When the drive mechanism is in the disengaged state, the drive mechanism and the starter plate are separated from each other, and the first reset structure can drive the starter plate to move from the initial position to the timekeeping start position.

4. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The starter plate is provided with a first toothed part, and the drive mechanism includes a drive wheel with a first first pin on the drive wheel. When the drive wheel rotates, the first first pin can mesh with the first toothed part to push the starter plate to move to the initial position.

5. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 4, characterized in that, The start plate is provided with a second tooth, and the time-telling mechanism includes a time-telling pawl. When the start plate moves from the time-telling start position to the initial position, the second tooth can engage with the time-telling pawl to make the time-telling mechanism tell the time.

6. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 1, characterized in that, A transmission unit is provided between the control mechanism and the drive mechanism. The transmission unit includes a first transmission component and a second transmission component. The first end of the first transmission component is correspondingly provided with the control mechanism, the second end of the first transmission component is correspondingly provided with the first end of the second transmission component, and the second end of the second transmission component is correspondingly provided with the drive mechanism. The control mechanism moves the first transmission component, the first transmission component drives the second transmission component to move, and the second transmission component pushes the drive mechanism to move, so that the drive mechanism is in a disengaged state.

7. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 6, characterized in that, The reset end of the stop mechanism is correspondingly set to the third end of the first transmission member, and the limiting end of the stop mechanism is correspondingly set to the starting mechanism. The control mechanism moves the first transmission member, and the first transmission member synchronously drives the second transmission member and the stop mechanism to move, so that the stop mechanism and the drive mechanism are simultaneously in a separated state.

8. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 7, characterized in that, The stop mechanism includes a fourth reset structure. When the control mechanism actuates the first transmission component and drives the stop mechanism to move, the fourth reset structure is in a compressed state. When the control mechanism is separated from the first transmission component, the fourth reset structure can drive the stop mechanism to reset to the limit state.

9. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the safety unit is in the open position, the safety unit is connected to the starting mechanism to lock the position of the starting mechanism; when the safety unit is in the closed position, the safety unit is separated from the starting mechanism to release the lock on the starting mechanism.

10. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 9, characterized in that, The safety unit includes a safety lever and a pull stop pin. One end of the safety lever is connected to the starting mechanism, and the other end is connected to the pull stop pin. The pull stop pin is connected to the time adjustment unit, which can drive the safety lever to move between the safety closed position and the safety open position through the pull stop pin.

11. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 10, characterized in that, The end of the safety bar is provided with an arc-shaped safety hook. The starting mechanism includes a third limiting pin. The safety hook can be engaged with the third limiting pin to lock the position of the starting mechanism. When the safety unit is in the safety open position, the end of the safety hook is located between the first and second tracks of the third limiting pin to protect the automatic timekeeping structure.

12. The automatic timekeeping structure of the watch according to claim 1, characterized in that, There are multiple time-telling start positions, and different time-telling start positions correspond to different times. The control mechanism includes a first limit component, which is connected to the hour wheel of the watch and rotates with the hour wheel. The first limit component is provided with multiple limit parts, and each limit part corresponds to a time-telling start position. The start mechanism includes a second limit component. When the start mechanism moves from the initial position to the corresponding time-telling start position, the second limit component can abut against the corresponding limit part on the first limit component.

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