Bidirectional Date Correction Mechanism for Timepieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing date correction mechanisms in timepieces, particularly in annual and perpetual calendars, face issues with bidirectional rapid correction, leading to jamming and potential breakage when trying to adjust the date forward or backward, with existing solutions either limiting correction to one direction or not addressing the issue of non-correction periods effectively.
Innovation Solution
A device with a drive member and instantaneous jump cam mechanism that allows for instantaneous date transitions in both directions without double jumping, using a direct and faster connection to drive the date disc, ensuring bidirectional rapid correction without jamming or breakage, even when setting the time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a rapid correction mechanism is used to advance the date, then the date can be corrected quickly in the forward direction, but the mechanism jams and may break when attempting to correct the date backward
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a bidirectional correction mechanism that inverts the traditional unidirectional approach. The correction mechanism can now operate in both forward and backward directions by reversing the rotation direction of the cam, allowing date correction in either direction without jamming or breakage
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a dynamic correction mechanism where the cam's geometry and the drive finger's positioning are designed to adapt to bidirectional motion. The cam profile includes specific phases (winding and unwinding) that enable smooth transitions in both rotation directions, preventing mechanical interference and ensuring reliable operation
2Productivity
If the date is corrected rapidly by setting the date back, then quick correction is achieved, but periods of non-correction occur when the drive mechanism is engaged with the date disc teeth
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements a preliminary disengagement action where the drive finger is designed to automatically disengage from the date disc teeth before the correction operation begins. This preliminary action clears the path for rapid bidirectional correction without interference from the engaged teeth, eliminating periods of non-correction
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of a specially designed cam that mediates between the correction input and the date disc. This cam acts as a mediator that temporarily decouples the correction mechanism from the date disc during correction operations, allowing continuous and uninterrupted date adjustment in both directions
3Ease of operation
If the time is set beforehand while the drive mechanism is engaged with the date disc teeth, then time setting is performed, but rapid date setting becomes prevented and risks damage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the correction and time-setting functions into separate operational modes. The drive mechanism is designed with distinct phases where time setting can be performed independently without engaging the date correction path, preventing interference and potential damage while maintaining full time setting capability
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
Enables instantaneous and bidirectional date correction in both increasing and decreasing directions, preventing jamming and breakage, and can be used with annual or perpetual calendars, day-of-week indicators, or moon phase indicators, allowing for rapid and reliable time setting.
Implementation Method 1
the spring that actuates the lever and the instantaneous jump cam releases the energy accumulated during this correction and rotates the cam
Implementation Method 2
a cam having a progressive winding phase and an instantaneous unwinding phase for a spring
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The device has an indicator component that is movable relative to a display element that displays time periods. A drive component has a drive finger for driving the indicator component. A cam is engaged with the drive component, and is driven by a hour wheel (5), in a cycle corresponding to the time periods. A corrector pinion (24) is in direct engagement with the indicator component. The hour wheel is connected to the cam by the one-way connection devices.