Annular Resonator Synchronization for Mechanical Watch Escapement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The Swiss lever escapement mechanism in mechanical timepieces has low efficiency due to friction, shocks, and machining errors, leading to reduced autonomy and chronometric properties.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism synchronizing the rotational speed of a gear train using an annular resonator with a deformable ring, driven by a torque, which eliminates jerky motions and friction by propagating a deformation wave, similar to a 'wine-glass' resonator, and can be magnetically or mechanically synchronized.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a Swiss lever escapement mechanism is used, then the timepiece can maintain continuous operation, but the efficiency is low due to friction, shocks, and jerky movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanical vibration by using a resonator that vibrates at its natural frequency to drive the escapement mechanism. The resonator's periodic vibrations replace the traditional impulse wheel's jerky movements, reducing shocks and friction while maintaining reliable timekeeping. The resonator is synchronized with the balance wheel through magnetic or mechanical coupling, creating a smooth, continuous oscillating motion that eliminates the harmful impulsive forces of conventional escapements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes traditional mechanical contact-based escapement components with a resonator system that uses magnetic fields for synchronization. The resonator can be driven by electromagnetic or piezoelectric actuators, replacing the mechanical impulse wheel and pallet fork contact mechanism. This substitution eliminates friction between moving parts and reduces wear, thereby improving energy efficiency while maintaining chronometric reliability through the resonator's stable natural frequency.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a Swiss lever escapement is used, then the timepiece can function continuously, but friction and shocks reduce autonomy
Solution Approach 1:
The resonator's natural vibrations provide a self-sustaining oscillating motion that requires minimal energy input to maintain. By tuning the resonator to its natural frequency, the system exploits resonance to amplify small driving forces, significantly reducing the energy required to keep the escapement running. This extends the autonomy of the timepiece while minimizing energy losses compared to traditional escapements that require continuous high-energy impulses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the resonator's transition between different vibrational states to maintain continuous operation with minimal energy input. The resonator alternates between potential and kinetic energy states during its oscillation cycle, efficiently storing and releasing energy. This phase transition between energy states allows the system to maintain autonomous operation for extended periods with reduced energy consumption from the mainspring or power source.
3Loss of energy
If traditional escapement mechanisms are used, then the structure is well-established, but machining errors and friction reduce efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical contact surfaces of traditional escapements (pallet forks, impulse wheels, and jewels) with a resonator system that uses magnetic fields for interaction. This substitution eliminates the need for precisely machined contact surfaces, as magnetic fields can be generated and controlled without physical contact. The resonator's geometry can be more simply manufactured while achieving the same function, reducing sensitivity to machining errors and minimizing friction-induced energy losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the driving mechanism and the balance wheel, replacing direct mechanical contact. The resonator generates magnetic fields that interact with the balance wheel's timing mechanism without physical contact, eliminating friction at the contact points. This intermediary magnetic field transmission reduces energy losses while being less sensitive to manufacturing tolerances compared to traditional mechanical interfaces requiring precise alignment and fit.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution increases the efficiency of the escapement, reduces energy losses, and enhances the accuracy and autonomy of mechanical watches by eliminating friction and shock-related losses, while providing aesthetic differentiation.
Implementation Method 1
an annular resonator with a deformable ring, driven by a torque, which eliminates jerky motions and friction by propagating a deformation wave
Implementation Method 2
a ring which is periodically deformable under the action induced by the motion of a drive member
Implementation Method 3
can be magnetically or mechanically synchronized
Data Source
AI summary
A timepiece movement including, fixed on a same plate, a gear train subjected to a torque in a timepiece movement, and an energy storage to deliver a torque to the gear train for actuating a mechanical mechanism synchronizing rotational speed of the gear train with a resonator having a given natural resonant frequency included in the timepiece movement. The resonator is an annular resonator including a ring disposed around an axis. The ring is arranged to be periodically deformed under an action induced by motion of a drive member, included in this mechanism, and the drive member is driven in a pivoting motion, directly or indirectly, by the gear train.