Tool-Free Interchangeable Bracelet Connecting Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wristwatch bracelet connecting devices require tools for disassembly and are not adaptable to different bracelet strand widths, leading to issues with length disruption and locking reliability.

Innovation Solution

A connecting device with movable articulated arms and attachment portions that allow tool-free interchangeability between bracelet strands and folding clasps, featuring a tilting or pivoting mechanism for easy assembly and disassembly, and adaptable to various strand sizes through a rod and hook locking system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional connecting devices are used, then the bracelet can be securely attached to the folding clasp, but tools are required for disassembly and reassembly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool-free interchangeabilityVSAvoidconnecting device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting device is divided into separate components: a first connecting piece attached to the bracelet strand and a second connecting piece attached to the folding clasp. These segments can be independently manipulated and connected without tools, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity by breaking the system into simpler, modular parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting device acts as an intermediary element between the bracelet strand and the folding clasp. This mediator enables tool-free attachment and detachment while maintaining secure connection, allowing the bracelet and clasp to be interchangeably connected without requiring direct integration or complex tool-based mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If a C-shaped cover with tabs is used to secure the strap end, then the strap can be easily attached by folding, but the strap lengths become misaligned when the end strap is no longer under tension

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeasy attachmentVSAvoidstrap length alignment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting device incorporates movable connecting pieces that can transition between connected and disconnected states. The first and second connecting pieces are designed to move relative to each other, allowing dynamic adjustment and maintaining proper strap length alignment whether the strap is under tension or not, while still enabling easy attachment through folding motion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed-width securing device is used, then the connection is simple, but it is not suitable for different bracelet strand widths

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different strand widthsVSAvoidadjustable mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting device is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate different bracelet strand widths. The connecting pieces feature openings and geometric configurations that can accommodate various widths without requiring adjustment mechanisms, achieving versatility through standardized yet flexible connection geometry that works across multiple strand sizes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Ease of operation

If the connecting pieces are fixed in position, then the structure is simple, but the bracelet cannot transition between open and closed positions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveopen/closed position transitionVSAvoidmovable mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting device incorporates movable connecting pieces that can transition between connected and disconnected states. The first and second connecting pieces are designed to move relative to each other, allowing dynamic adjustment and maintaining proper strap length alignment whether the strap is under tension or not, while still enabling easy attachment through folding motion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3565431B1Connecting device for bracelet
Publication Date: 2021.06.30 LVMH SWISS MFG SA
  • EP3565431B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3565431B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3565431B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Connecting device (40) allowing a releasable connection between a bracelet strap (20) and a folding clasp (30) comprising at least two articulated arms (32) and two fastening portions (31) capable of reversibly cooperating with each other, comprising a first connecting piece (41) capable of being secured to the free end of the bracelet strap (20) and a second connecting piece (42) capable of being mounted on the fastening portion (31), characterised in that said first connecting piece (41) and said second connecting piece (42) are configured to reversibly cooperate with each other between a first open position, allowing the separation between the first connecting piece (41) and the second connecting piece (42), and a second closed position in which said first connecting piece (41) and said second connecting piece (42) are locked together.