Bracelet Clasp Arbor Segmentation for Stable Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch wristband clasps are difficult to operate due to unstable arbor positioning, leading to unreliable locking and potential unintended length adjustments, and are not easily dismantled for cleaning or part replacement.
Innovation Solution
A wristband clasp design featuring articulated blades with a groove and arbor system, including recesses for length adjustment and a spring-loaded pusher, along with ball ratchets for secure locking, allowing easy length adjustment and simple disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a movable arbor is used in the clasp mechanism, then the clasp can be adjusted between different positions, but the arbor becomes unstable and may lock in undesired positions
Solution Approach 1:
The arbor is segmented into a fixed portion and a movable portion. The fixed portion is anchored to prevent unwanted movement, while the movable portion allows controlled adjustment between positions. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing both stability (through the fixed portion) and adjustability (through the movable portion).
Solution Approach 2:
A detent mechanism acts as an intermediary between the arbor and the blade, providing controlled engagement at specific positions. The detent engages with recesses in the blade to lock the arbor at predetermined positions, preventing unstable locking while maintaining adjustability.
2Reliability
If the clasp mechanism is made complex to ensure reliable locking, then locking reliability improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detent mechanism is spring-loaded to automatically engage with the recesses in the blade when the arbor reaches a predetermined position. This self-service feature provides reliable locking without requiring additional user action, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring dependable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent is pre-positioned and spring-loaded to be ready for engagement. When the arbor moves to a predetermined position, the detent automatically engages with the recesses without requiring additional user intervention. This preliminary preparation ensures reliable locking while keeping the operation simple.
3Strength
If the clasp is designed as a integrated unit, then structural strength improves, but ease of repair and cleaning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clasp is divided into separate functional components: the blade, the arbor assembly, the detent mechanism, and the locking means. These segmented components can be easily detached from one another, facilitating cleaning and repair while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The arbor serves multiple functions: it acts as an adjustment mechanism for changing blade positions and as a structural connector between the blade and the locking means. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate parts needed, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining ease of dismantling.
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
The clasp provides a reliable, easy-to-use mechanism for adjusting wristband length and facilitates cleaning and part replacement, ensuring stable and secure closure.
Implementation Method 1
the pusher includes a spring to hold it in its rest position inside one of the recesses
Implementation Method 2
the first means for locking the first blade in a closed position on the second blade include, on the one hand, at least one ball ratchet integral with the second blade, and on the other hand, an orifice formed in the first blade and arranged to cooperate with the ball ratchet
Data Source
AI summary
A clasp for a bracelet or wristband includes first and second blades, the first blade being articulated to the second blade by a first end, between a closed position, in which the second blade is folded onto the first blade, and an open position, in which the second blade is released from the first blade, the first blade being articulated at a second end to a member for attaching a first wristband portion. The clasp includes an adjustment mechanism arranged to adjust the position of the second blade with respect to the first blade in an open position, the adjustment mechanism including a groove machined in the second blade, an arbor integral with the first blade and passing through the groove, the arbor receiving a pusher for releasing and/or locking it in order to move the second blade.