Module components for adjustable watch straps
The modular member for an adjustable watch strap facilitates tool-free, manual length adjustment through rotatable and slidable pins, addressing the complexity of existing strap adjustments for inexperienced users.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2026536265
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Priority Date
- 2024-04-10
- Filing Date
- 2024-08-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-26
AI Technical Summary
Existing modular watch straps require complex operations and tools for adjusting the length, making it difficult for inexperienced users to make adjustments.
A modular member for an adjustable watch strap that allows manual length adjustment without tools, featuring rotatable and slidable pins and channels for easy assembly and disassembly.
Enables inexperienced users to easily adjust the strap length by manually manipulating rotatable and slidable pins, simplifying the assembly and disassembly process.
Smart Images
Figure 2026529028000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a modular member of an adjustable strap for a watch. In particular, the improved modular member can be used to make the length of the strap adjustable.
Background Art
[0002] As is well known, there is a watch strap that forms a chain that can be deformed so that a user can attach and detach it by connecting a plurality of modular members continuously to each other. The length of this type of strap is generally fixed, and in order to adjust the fit of the strap to the user's wrist, it can only be adjusted by a skilled person who is responsible for disassembling the module and inserting or removing a new module.
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0003] The applicant recognized the need to develop a solution that allows an inexperienced person to manually adjust the length of a modular member type strap without performing complex operations and simplifies the disassembly / assembly work of the modular member.
[0004] Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide a complete modular member that allows the length of the strap to be manually and easily adjustable without the use of tools - for example, a watchmaker's tool or a precision driver.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0005] The above object and advantages are achieved by a modular member for an adjustable watch strap according to claim 1.
[0006] Another object of the present invention is achieved by an adjustable strap according to claim 25.
[0007] Furthermore, another object of the present invention is achieved by a watch comprising a modular member of an adjustable watch strap as described in claim 27. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0008] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the description of preferred but non-exclusive embodiments of modular members for watch adjustable straps, illustrated as indexable but non-limiting examples in the table of accompanying drawings. [Figure 1a] The following are exploded perspective views of the module members for the adjustable watch strap according to each embodiment described herein. [Figure 1b] The following are exploded perspective views of the module members for the adjustable watch strap according to each embodiment described herein. [Figure 1c] The following are exploded perspective views of the module members for the adjustable watch strap according to each embodiment described herein. [Figure 1d] The following are exploded perspective views of the module members for the adjustable watch strap according to each embodiment described herein. [Figure 2] This is a side perspective view of a plurality of module members according to the described embodiment. [Figure 3a] This is a cross-sectional view of the strap connection portion according to each embodiment described herein. [Figure 3a] This is a cross-sectional view of the strap connection portion according to each embodiment described herein. [Figure 3b] This is a cross-sectional view of the strap connection portion according to each embodiment described herein. [Figure 3c] This is a cross-sectional view of the strap connection portion according to each embodiment described herein. [Figure 3d] This is a cross-sectional view of the strap connection portion according to each embodiment described herein. [Figure 3e] This is a cross-sectional view of the strap connection portion according to each embodiment described herein. [Figure 4] Figure 3d is a cross-sectional view of the module member in different usage states. [Figure 5a] This is a front view of the strap adjustment method according to the present invention. [Figure 5b] This is a front view of the strap adjustment method according to the present invention. [Figure 5c] This is a front view of the strap adjustment method according to the present invention. [Figure 6] This is an exploded view of a modular component of the present invention according to an additional embodiment described herein. [Figure 7] This is a partial cross-sectional view of a modular member according to an additional embodiment described herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0009] With particular reference to these figures, reference numeral M indicates the entire module component for an adjustable watch strap.
[0010] Strap 1 comprises a plurality of central module members M, hereafter also referred to as "connectors," and a plurality of lateral members / sides arranged continuously along the longitudinal direction XX, for the purpose of creating a decorative chain to be attached to a watch case. The connectors M are constrained by each other by the lateral members / sides, which enable the connectors M to be supported so as to be positioned around the user's wrist. Furthermore, as will become apparent later in this specification, certain designs allow for the removal of one or more connectors M from the decorative chain by at least partially detaching a particular lateral rotating member R from the connector M from which it is removed.
[0011] In this context, as shown in the figure, the strap 1 includes a predetermined number of connection points M selected according to the diameter of the user's wrist. Specifically, the figure shows that the first connection point M1, the second connection point M2, the third connection point M3, and so on are arranged in sequence.
[0012] The connecting portion M and the lateral members / sides F and R preferably have an uneven profile. However, it is not excluded that the connecting portion M and members F and R may have different profiles, for example, with straight upper and lower surfaces.
[0013] Each connection part M is identified with two opposing side surfaces L1 and L2 provided with various openings, channels, and holes, as described in detail below. To avoid redundancy in the description, only the features of the first connection part M1 are listed below, and it is pointed out that the remaining connection parts M of the strap 1 also have substantially the same or identical features.
[0014] As shown in the figure, the module member M includes a first connection part M1 configured to be associated with at least a second connection part M2 arranged continuously. The first connection part M1 has a side part MF that defines the first side surface L1.
[0015] Specifically, the first connection part M1 includes a central body MC and a fixing member F that defines the side part MF and is arranged on the side part of the central body MC.
[0016] As shown in the figure, at least the following elements are specified for the first connection part M1. - A first through-channel C1 obtained by crossing from the first side surface L1 to the second side surface L2, - A second channel C2 provided by crossing from the first side surface L1 to the second side surface L2. In the first embodiment, the second channel C2 is through and intersects with any of the side part MF, the fixing member F, and the central body MC.
[0017] Specifically, the second channel C2 can include a first part C2' provided in the central body MC - preferably through - and a second part C2'' provided in the side part MF - closed or through. The second channel C2 can also include only the first part C2' provided in the central body MC.
[0018] [First Embodiment] In the first embodiment - for example, as shown in Figure 3f - the fixing member F is integrally formed with the central body MC, the second channel C2 is through, and preferably intersects with both the side part MF and the central body MC. Specifically, the second channel C2 is defined by a first through - part C2' provided in the central body MC and a second through - part C2'' provided in the side part MF.
[0019] As described above, the first connection part M1 is configured to be associated with at least the second connection part M2, which is arranged in a continuous manner. The second connection part M2 can be associated with the third connection part M3, which is arranged in a continuous manner, and so on.
[0020] The module member M also includes a movable member R positioned on the second side L2 opposite to the first side L1 of the first connecting portion M1. In particular, the movable member R is rotatable. In the following description, the movable member R will be referred to as the rotatable member R and / or the movable member R.
[0021] The module member M includes a first pin P1 extending from the side portion MF to the movable member R.
[0022] The first pin P1 passes through the first through channel C1 provided in the second connector M2. The first pin P1 is longer than the length of the first channel C1. By passing through the first channel C1, the first pin P1 is adapted to protrude laterally from the second connector M2 toward the side MF and the movable member R. In detail, the first pin P1 protrudes from the second connector M2 toward the side MF and the movable member R.
[0023] The first pin P1 has ends P1' and P1''. The ends P1' and P1'' of the first pin P1 are configured to fit at least partially into the second cavity H2 provided in the side MF and the second hole O2 in the rotating member R, respectively. One end P1' of the first pin P1 is detachably connected to the rotating member R, and the other end P1'' is fixedly connected to the side MF.
[0024] Specifically, the first pin P1 is fixed to the second cavity H2 of the side MF. The first pin P1 is also detachably engaged with the second hole O2 provided in the movable member R.
[0025] The second cavity H2 may have threads for connection to the first pin P1. The first pin may be screwed into and / or configured to be screwed into the second cavity H2. In one embodiment, the end P1' of the first pin P1 may have a head that can be coupled by a screwdriver for screwing the first pin P1 into the second cavity H2 of the side MF.
[0026] The first pin P1 is movable within the first channel C1 of the second connector M2, thereby allowing the second connector M2 to rotate around the first pin P1.
[0027] The module member M also includes a second pin P2 extending from the side MF to the movable member R via a second channel C2 provided in the first connection M1. The second pin P2 is movable within the second channel C2 so as to move toward and away from the side MF. The second pin P2 may be longer than the length of the second through channel C2. In detail, the second pin P2 is configured to connect by projecting laterally from the first connection M1 toward the movable member R.
[0028] The second pin P2 is movable to move closer to / away from the lateral MF. The second pin P2 can slide within the second channel C2 to move closer to / away from the lateral MF.
[0029] According to one embodiment, the second pin P2 extends along the extension direction YY between a first end P2' located within the second channel C2 and an opposing end P2'' connected to the movable member R.
[0030] Specifically, the first end P2' of the second pin P2 is movable within the second channel C2 relative to the side MF and the first connector M1. The opposing end P2'' of the second pin P2 is fixed within the first hole O1 of the movable member R.
[0031] As described above, the second pin P2 extends longer than the length of the second channel C2 of the first connector M1 and connects to the rotating member R. The opposing end P2'' of the second pin P2 faces the movable member R. In detail, the opposing end P2'' is configured to at least partially fit and permanently engage with the first hole O1 of the movable member R. The opposing end P2'' is fixed within the first hole O1 of the movable member R, thereby suppressing or preventing relative movement between the movable member R and the second pin P2, at least along the extension direction YY.
[0032] The first hole O1 is threaded, and the opposing end P2'' of the second pin P2 can be screwed into the movable member R within the first hole O1. In one embodiment, the first end P2' of the second pin P2 may have a head that can be connected by a screwdriver for screwing the second pin P2 into the first hole O1 of the movable member R.
[0033] Specifically, the second pin P2 passes through the second channel C2 of the first connector M1, allowing it to move freely. The second pin P2 is rotatable within the second channel C2 relative to the first connector M1. In other words, relative rotation is possible between the second pin P2 and the first connector M1.
[0034] Advantageously, the movable member R is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the movable member R is movable to approach the first connector M1 and the second connector M2. It is movable between the first and second positions, which are further away from the first connector M1 and the second connector M2, allowing the first pin P1 to be disengaged from the second hole O2 and the second connector M2 to be slid away from the first pin P1, thereby removing the second connector M2 from the strap C.
[0035] In the first (closer) position of the movable member R, the second pin P2 is in its maximum extension position within the second channel C2. In the second (farther) position of the movable member R, - Remove the first pin from the second hole O2. - To slide the second connection part M2 away from the first pin P1. - Remove the second connector M2 from strap 1. To enable this, the second pin P2 is in the minimum stretched position within the second channel C2.
[0036] Therefore, the second pin P2 is movable between multiple positions within the second channel C2, including the maximum and minimum extension positions. In fact, the extension of the first end P2' located within the second channel C2 is variable. In other words, the space occupied by the second pin P2 within the second channel C2 is variable depending on the relative positions between the second pin P2 and the side MF or between the second pin P2 and the fixing member F.
[0037] Specifically, the first end P2' is configured to move along the extension direction YY within the second channel C2 as the second pin P2 moves between multiple positions.
[0038] The movement of the second pin P2 along the extension direction YY within the second channel C2 is locked together with the movement of the rotating member R. Specifically, when the rotating member R is grasped by the user and moved away from / toward from the first connection M1, the second pin P2 slides within the second channel C2 by changing the position of the rotating member R within the second channel C2.
[0039] Usefully, each of the multiple positions of the second pin P2 is associated with a non-zero extension of the second pin P2 within the second channel C2. More specifically, the extension associated with each position is determined by the relative position between the first end P2' and the first connector M1—preferably between the first end P2' and the side MF.
[0040] At the maximum extension position (closest to the movable member R), the first end P2' of the second pin P2 determines the maximum extension within the second channel C2. For example, the second pin P2 can be configured to completely occupy the second channel C2 at the maximum extension position. In other words, the second pin P2 can extend along its entire length within the second channel C2 and protrude from the second side L2 to connect to the movable member R.
[0041] Conversely, at the minimum extension position (the position where the movable member R is separated), the first end of the second pin P2 determines the minimum extension within the second channel C2. For example, the second pin P2 may be configured to release the second channel C2 at the minimum extension position within the second channel C2. Therefore, when the movable member R is moved away from the first connector M1, the second channel C2 is partially released by the second pin P2.
[0042] In one embodiment, the first connector M1 includes an elastic means S disposed between the second pin P2 and the second channel C2. The elastic means S includes a spring disposed around the second pin P2, particularly between the second through channel C2 of the first connector M1 and the second pin P2. Advantageously, the spring S is mounted on the second pin P2 and also inserted into the second channel C2 of the first connector M1.
[0043] The elastic means S is configured to suppress or promote the movement of the second pin P2 along the extension direction YY within the second channel C2. Specifically, the elastic means S is configured to be compressed along the extension direction YY and to suppress the movement of the second pin P2 from the maximum extension position (closest position to the movable member R) to the minimum extension position (farthest position from the movable member R). Conversely, the elastic means S is configured to promote the movement of the second pin P2 from the minimum extension position to the maximum extension position within the second channel C2.
[0044] The spring S is substantially pre-compressed so that the rotating member R is mounted perpendicularly to the first connecting portion M1 and / or the second pin P2 in the maximum extension position.
[0045] The elastic means S is configured to move the second pin P2 to the maximum extension position among several positions, i.e., toward the movable member R. The elastic means S is adapted to return the second pin P2 from the minimum extension position to the maximum extension position. In other words, the elastic means S is configured to suppress the movement of the second pin P2 toward the side MF or the fixed member F. For example, if the movable member R is moved toward the first connection M1, the elastic means S suppresses the movement of the second pin P2. In fact, the elastic means S is configured to keep the movable member R mounted perpendicular to the second side L2 of the first connection M1.
[0046] Specifically, the first end P2' of the second pin P2 is configured to compress the elastic means S at least when the second pin P2 is in the minimum extension position within the second channel C2.
[0047] In one embodiment, the second channel C2 preferably has a shoulder B that resists axial movement of the elastic means S toward the movable member R, and / or axial movement of the second pin P2 such that the first end P2' moves away from the side MF, when at least the second pin P2 is in the minimum extension position.
[0048] The first end P2' of the second pin P2 has a stop surface for receiving and stopping the elastic means S at least when the second pin P2 moves within the second channel C2, i.e., when moving between multiple positions. The first end P2' of the second pin P2 is radially enlarged relative to the body of the second pin P2 so that the movement of the second pin P2 is suppressed or facilitated by the elastic means S. For example, the radially enlarged first end P2' allows the elastic means S to move the second pin P2 from the minimum extension position to the maximum extension position when the user releases the rotating member R. The elastic means S is interposed within the second channel C2 of the first connection M1 between the stop surface of the first end P2' of the second pin P2 and the shoulder B of the second channel C2.
[0049] In detail, the second pin P2 is movable within the second channel C2 when the movable member R moves from the first position to the second position, or from the second position to the first position. In other words, the second pin P2 is configured to move within the second channel C2 of the first connection M1 when the movable member R moves between the first and second positions.
[0050] The second pin P2 is movable between multiple positions in accordance with the movement of the movable member R between the first and second positions. The second pin P2 is configured to be positioned at the maximum extension position when the movable member R is in the first position.
[0051] The second pin P2 is configured to be in its minimum extension position when the movable member R is in the second position. In other words, when the rotating member R is moved away from the first and second connectors M1 and M2, the second pin P2 is in its minimum extension position. When the rotating member R is moved closer to the first and second connectors, the second pin P2 is in its maximum extension position.
[0052] In fact, the second pin P2 may be configured to fully engage the second channel C2 when the movable member R is close to the first connector M1 and positioned in a first position. The second pin P2 may also be configured to almost completely release the second channel C2 when the movable member R is moved away from the first connector M1 and positioned in a second position.
[0053] [Second Embodiment] A second embodiment of the present invention differs from the first embodiment in that the fixing member F and the central body MC are separate entities, and the fixing member F is preferably restrained to the side of the central body MC by a pin or the like, which will be described later. The fixing member F is positioned on the side of the central body MC, and the side MF is defined by the fixing member F.
[0054] The second channel C2 of the first connection part M1 is defined and closed by the central body MC. More specifically, the second channel C2 is defined only by the first through portion C2' provided in the central body MC.
[0055] The fixing member F closes the first penetrating portion C2' of the central body MC from the side so that the second channel C2 is closed.
[0056] The first pin P1 and the second pin P2 extend, in particular, from the fixed member F to the movable member R. The first pin P1 and the second pin P2 are adapted to project laterally from the central body MC of the first connector M1 toward the movable member R. In particular, the first pin P1 is adapted to project from the central body MC of the first connector M1 toward the fixed member F.
[0057] Specifically, the second pin P2 is movable within the second channel C2—particularly within the first portion C2' of the second channel C2—to approach / away from the fixing member F. The second pin P2 is movable within the second channel C2 to approach and / or away from the fixing member F. The second pin P2 can slide within the second channel C2 to move towards / away from the fixing member F.
[0058] The second pin P2 may be configured to be adjacent to the fixing member in the second channel C2 at its maximum extension position. More specifically, the second pin P2 may be configured to fully engage the second channel C2 at its maximum extension position. In other words, the second pin P2 engages with the second channel C2, i.e., the first portion C2' of the second channel C2 and its entire length, at its maximum extension position.
[0059] In one embodiment, the module member M includes a third pin P3 extending from the fixing member F to the first connection portion M1 so as to be inserted into a first opening A1 formed in the first connection portion M1. Specifically, the first opening A1 is provided in the central body MC of the first connection portion M1. The first opening A1 is provided transversely for a predetermined length from the first side surface L1 toward the second side surface L2.
[0060] The third pin P3 extends between its ends P3' and P3''. The ends P3' and P3'' of the third pin P3 are configured to fit and engage with the first opening A1 provided in the first connecting portion M1 and the third cavity H3 of the fixing member F, respectively, while being fixed to them.
[0061] The third pin P3 is partially inserted into a third cavity H3 provided in the fixing member F and locked within the third cavity H3. The third cavity H3 may have threads, and the third pin P3 may be screwed into or configured to be screwed into the third cavity H3.
[0062] The module member M may include a fourth pin P4 that extends from the fixing member F to the first connecting portion M1 and is inserted into a second opening A2 provided in the first connecting portion M1. The second opening A2 is provided in the central body MC of the first connecting portion M1. The second opening A2 is provided transversely for a predetermined length from the first side surface L1 to the second side surface L2.
[0063] The fourth pin P4 is partially inserted into a fourth cavity H4 provided in the fixing member F and locked within the fourth cavity H4. The fourth cavity H4 may have threads, and the fourth pin P4 may be screwed into or configured to be screwed into the fourth cavity H4.
[0064] In particular, the third pin P3 and the fourth pin P4 may be completely similar to each other. Module member M may have both the third pin P3 and the fourth pin P4, or only one of them. In other words, the fourth pin P4 may be provided in addition to or as a substitute for the third pin P3, and vice versa.
[0065] The third pin P3 and the fourth pin P4 enable the fixing member F to always be in close contact with the first connecting portion M1 during use. Preferably, the third pin P3 and the fourth pin P4 are substantially equivalent, even if they are not identical, and are longer than the width of the fixing member F and shorter than the width of the first connecting portion M1.
[0066] Specifically, the openings A1, A2 and channels C1, C2 described above are arranged consecutively along the XX direction in the order of first channel C1, first opening A1, second channel C2, and second opening A2. More specifically, the cavities of the fixing member F are arranged along the XX direction in the order of third cavity H3, fourth cavity H4, and second cavity H2.
[0067] In one embodiment, the cavity of the fixed member F, the openings A1 and A2 of the first connecting portion M1, and the holes O1 and O2 of the movable member R are closed, while the channels C1 and C2 of the first connecting portion M1 are open.
[0068] According to one embodiment, the central body MC of the first connection portion M1 may include one or more members having through channels that are connected to each other and are aligned to define the first channel C1 and / or second channel C2 of the first connection portion M1.
[0069] The central body MC may include one to three members. In one embodiment, the central body includes two members positioned on either side of the central member, resulting in the configuration shown in Figure 6. In other words, the module member M is adapted to form a five-span connecting strap.
[0070] According to one embodiment, the main body comprises a single member or two members arranged in parallel, and each module member M is adapted to form a double or triple connecting strap.
[0071] [Third Embodiment] The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the fixing member F has a first cavity H1 that at least partially defines the second channel C2 of the first connection M1. Specifically, the first cavity H1 of the fixing member F defines the second closed or through portion C2'' of the second channel C2. The cavity H1 defines the second channel C2 of the first connection M1 by aligning with the first portion C2' of the second channel C2 provided in the central body MC. In detail, in the third embodiment, the second channel C2 can be closed or through. In other words, the first portion C2' of the second channel C2 is through, and the second portion C2'' can be closed or through. In detail, the first cavity H1 of the fixing member F can be closed or through.
[0072] The first pin P1 and the second pin P2 extend, in particular, from the fixed member F to the movable member R. The first pin P1 and the second pin P2 are adapted to project laterally from the central body MC of the first connector M1 in the direction of the fixed member F and the movable member R.
[0073] The first end P2' of the second pin P2 is at least partially positioned in the second portion C2'' of the second channel, i.e., the first cavity H1 of the fixing member F. The first end P2' of the second pin P2 is movable within the first cavity H1 of the fixing member F.
[0074] Specifically, each of the multiple positions of the second pin P2 is associated with a non-zero extension of the second pin P2 within the first cavity H1 of the fixed member F. In other words, as the movable member R is moved towards or away from the first connection, the first end P2' of the second pin P2 is always positioned within the first cavity H1 of the fixed member F.
[0075] The first end P2' is configured to move along the extension direction YY within the cavity H1 of the fixing member F as the second pin P2 moves between multiple positions.
[0076] In more detail, the second pin P2 is movable within the first cavity H1 of the fixed member F when the movable member R moves from the first position to the second position, or from the second position to the first position. In other words, the second pin P2 is configured to move within the first cavity H1 of the fixed member F when the movable member R moves between the first and second positions.
[0077] Specifically, each of the multiple positions of the second pin P2 is associated with a non-zero extension of the second pin P2 within the first cavity H1 of the fixing member F. In other words, at least a portion of the second pin P2 is configured to always be located within the first cavity H1 of the fixing member F in each of the multiple positions of the second pin P2 that it can switch.
[0078] In detail, the second pin P2 is configured such that its first end P2' is always at least partially located within the first cavity H1 of the fixing member F. Such arrangement ensures that the fixing member F is stably held by the first side of the first connection.
[0079] In one embodiment, each position of the second pin P2 is associated with the extension of the second pin P2 within the first cavity H1 of the fixing member F. At each position, the second pin P2 engages at least partially with the second channel C2.
[0080] More specifically, the extension of the second pin P2 within the first cavity H1 of the fixing member F associated with each position is determined by the first end P2'. In other words, the first end of the second pin P2 is positioned within the first cavity H1 of the fixing member F at each position of the second pin and determines the extension associated with each position of the second pin.
[0081] At the maximum extension position, the first end P2' of the second pin P2 determines the maximum extension within the first cavity H1. For example, the second pin P2 may be configured to fully engage with the first cavity H1, i.e., the second portion C2'' of the second channel C2, at the maximum extension position within the second channel C2 (proximity to the movable member R). At the maximum extension position within the second channel C2, the second pin P2 fully engages with both the first portion C2' and the second portion, protruding laterally from the first connector M1 and connecting to the rotating member R.
[0082] Conversely, at the minimum extension position, the first end of the second pin determines the minimum extension within the first cavity H1 of the fixed member F. The second pin P2 is configured to partially release the first cavity H1, i.e., the second portion C2'' of the second channel C2, at the minimum extension position (a distant position of the movable member R) within the second channel C2. In other words, when the rotating member R is moved away from the first connection M1, the first cavity H1, i.e., the second portion of the second channel C2, is partially released by the second pin P2. When the rotating member R approaches and makes contact with the first connection M1, the second pin P2 fully engages with the first cavity of the fixed member F.
[0083] According to one embodiment, the cavities H1 to H4 of the fixed member F are arranged in the order of third cavity H3, first cavity H1, fourth cavity H4, and second cavity H2 along the XX direction.
[0084] According to any embodiment described, one or more components of the module member M—for example, connectors, fixing members, and rotating members—may be made of metal, but are not excluded from being made of leather, plastic, or a combination thereof.
[0085] [Adjustable strap] The present specification also relates to an adjustable watch strap comprising a plurality of central modules M. Each central module M comprises at least one module member M according to any embodiment of the present specification. The strap may comprise the plurality of connectors described above, coupled to a plurality of other standard connectors—that is, without a rotating member R. In this case, each standard connector M' may comprise a plurality of channels. At least two of the plurality of channels pass through to receive, as shape-coupled, a number of pins intended to be inserted at both ends into two opposing sides or fixing members.
[0086] The strap includes a second connecting portion M2 that is arranged continuously with the module member M. The second connecting portion M2 is arranged continuously with the first connecting portion M1 of the module member M.
[0087] The strap comprises a second side MF' positioned on the first side L1 of the first connecting portion M1, and an additional side MF'' or movable member R' positioned on the second side L2 opposite to the second connecting portion M2 and installed along the second side MF'.
[0088] Furthermore, the strap includes an additional first pin P1 that extends from the second side MF' to an additional side MF'' or movable member R' and passes through an additional first through channel C1 provided within the third connection.
[0089] Specifically, the second side portion MF' is defined by the second fixing member F' positioned on the first side surface L1 of the first connecting portion M1.
[0090] An additional side MF'' is defined by an additional fixing member F'' located on the second side L2. An additional first pin P1 extends from the second fixing member F' to the additional fixing member F'' or the movable member R.
[0091] During use, in one operation, strap 1 is, - The second cavity H2, the first pin P1 and the first channel C1 of the second connector M2 are arranged coaxially with each other, - The second pin P2, the elastic means S, the second channel C2 and the first hole O1 of the first connector M1 are arranged coaxially with each other. It has.
[0092] In one embodiment, the strap 1 is further used when in use - The third cavity H3, the third pin P3, and the first opening A1 are arranged coaxially with each other, and / or - The fourth cavity H4, the fourth pin P4, and the second aperture A2 are arranged coaxially with each other. It has.
[0093] The connection part M' located adjacent to the first connection part M1 may be identical in all respects, thereby enabling association with an additional rotating member R'. Alternatively, the connection part M' located adjacent to the first connection part M1 is a standard connection part and is therefore associated with additional fixing members F', F''.
[0094] The operation of the strap 1 of the present invention may be as follows.
[0095] If the user needs to widen or narrow the circumference of the strap 1 around the wrist, the rotating member R is grasped and moved away from the first connector M1, thereby disengaging the second pin P2 from the second hole O2. At this point, the rotating member R can be rotated—for example, 45°—around the axis YY (perpendicular to the XX axis) of the third pin P3 (Figure 5a). Subsequently, the second pin P2 can slide out of the first channel C1 of the second connector M2 of the first pin P1, thereby disengaging the first connector M1 from the strap 1 (Figure 5b). Thus, the first channel C1 of the second connector M2 is released to receive the new connector.
[0096] At this point, the new connector can be attached to the strap 1 by inserting the second pin P2 into the channel C1 of the second connector M2, and then rotating the corresponding rotating member R to engage with the corresponding second pin P2. The first connector M1, which has been detached from the strap 1, is finally reattached to the strap 1 by inserting its own second pin P2 into the channel C1 of the new connector M'' and rotating the corresponding rotating member R onto the corresponding pin P2 (Figure 5c).
[0097] The present invention also relates to a watch comprising a module member M and / or a strap 1 according to any embodiment described.
[0098] In fact, the present invention has been confirmed to achieve its intended purpose, and it is particularly noteworthy that the modular components allow even inexperienced users to adjust the strap length in a very simple manner.
[0099] The types of structural combinations of modular members and straps are potentially infinite, and those skilled in the art can make numerous changes and modifications to the embodiments described above to meet incidental and specific requirements, all of which fall within the scope of protection of the present invention as defined by the following claims.
Claims
1. A module component for an adjustable watch strap, comprising a first connecting portion, a movable member, a first pin, and a second pin, The first connecting portion is configured to be associated with at least a second connecting portion which is arranged to be continuous with the first connecting portion, and the first connecting portion has a side portion which defines the first side surface of the first connecting portion. The movable member is positioned on the second side facing the first connection portion. The first pin extends from the side toward the movable member and passes through the first through channel formed within the second connecting portion. The second pin extends from the side portion through the second channel formed within the first connection portion toward the movable member, and the second pin is movable within the second channel toward / away from the side portion. Module components.
2. A modular member according to claim 1, wherein the second pin extends along the extension direction between a first end disposed within the second channel and an opposing end connected to the movable member.
3. A module member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first end of the second pin is movable within the second channel relative to the first connection and the side, and the opposing end of the second pin is fixed within the first hole of the movable member.
4. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first hole of the movable member is threaded, and the opposing end of the second pin is screwed inside the first hole.
5. A modular member according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second pin is movable between a plurality of positions including the maximum extension position of the second pin within the second channel and the minimum extension position of the second pin within the second channel, and each of the plurality of positions of the second pin is associated with a non-zero extension of the second pin within the second channel.
6. A modular member according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first end is configured to move along the extension direction within the second channel when the second pin moves between the plurality of positions, and the extension is associated with each position determined by the relative positions between the first end and the side of the first connection.
7. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first connecting portion includes an elastic means disposed between the second pin and the second channel.
8. A modular member according to any one of claims 1 to 7, when dependent on claim 5, wherein the elastic means is configured to counteract and / or facilitate the movement of the second pin in the extension direction within the second channel.
9. A modular member according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the elastic means is configured to maintain the movable member in a state where it is mounted perpendicular to the second side and / or second pin of the first connection portion at the position of maximum extension within the second channel.
10. A modular member according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second channel has a shoulder portion that opposes the axial movement of the elastic means toward the movable member and / or the axial movement of the first end of the second pin away from the side portion.
11. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the second channel of the first connection portion is through-member.
12. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first end of the second pin has a head that is adapted to be coupled to a screwdriver that screws the second pin into the first hole of the movable member.
13. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first pin is It is partially inserted into a second cavity formed within the side portion and locked within the second cavity. A modular member that is removably engaged within a second hole formed in the movable member.
14. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the second cavity on the side has a screw thread for connecting to the first pin, and the first pin is screwed in within the second cavity.
15. A modular member according to claim 13 or 14 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the movable member is Release the first pin from the second hole, The second connecting portion is slid so as to detach from the first pin. Remove the second connecting part from the strap. To make this possible, A modular member that is movable between a first position in which the second pin is in the maximum extension position and the movable member moves closer to the first and second connection portions, and a second position in which the second pin is in the minimum extension position and the movable member moves away from the first connection portion and moves from the first connection portion to the second connection portion.
16. A modular member according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the first connecting portion comprises a central body and a fixing member disposed on the side of the central body, and the side of the first connecting portion is defined by the fixing member.
17. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the fixing member has a first cavity that at least partially defines the second channel of the first connection portion, and the first end of the second pin is at least partially located within the first cavity of the fixing member.
18. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the first end of the second pin is movable within the first cavity of the fixing member.
19. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein each of the plurality of positions of the second pin is associated with a non-zero extension of the second pin within the first cavity of the fixing member.
20. A modular member according to any one of claims 1 to 19, when dependent on claim 5, wherein the first end is configured to move along the extension direction within the cavity of the fixed member when the second pin moves between the plurality of positions.
21. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 20, A third pin extending from the fixing member toward the first connecting portion so as to be inserted into a first opening formed in the central body of the first connecting portion, and / or A fourth pin extending from the fixing member toward the first connecting portion is inserted into a second opening formed within the central body of the first connecting portion. A modular component comprising the above.
22. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the third pin is partially inserted into and locked within a third cavity formed within the fixing member, and / or The fourth pin is partially inserted into a fourth cavity formed within the fixing member and locked within the fourth cavity. Module components.
23. A module member according to any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the central body of the first connection portion has one or more members, and each of the one or more members has a through channel aligned to define the second channel of the first connection portion.
24. It is a watch strap, A plurality of central modules comprising at least one module member according to any one of claims 1 to 23, and at least two second connecting portions arranged in a continuous manner, A second side portion is positioned on the first side surface of the first connecting portion, An additional side portion or movable member is provided along the second side portion, which is positioned on the second side facing the second connection portion, A strap comprising an additional first pin extending from the second side portion toward the additional side portion or movable member and passing through an additional first through channel formed within the third connection portion.
25. A module member according to any one of claims 1 to 21, The second side portion is defined by a second fixing member provided on the first side surface of the first connecting portion. The additional side portion is defined by an additional fixing member positioned on the second side portion. The additional first pin extends from the second fixing member toward the additional fixing member or movable member. Module components.
26. A watch comprising at least one module member for an adjustable strap according to any one of claims 1 to 23.