Cam-Follower Locking Mechanism for Timepiece Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for control members in timepieces, such as winding buttons and valves, can become blocked due to imperfect adjustments, leading to reliability issues and user inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a blocking element that undergoes translational displacement along the longitudinal axis, controlled by a rotatable part, using a cam and follower mechanism to ensure reliable locking and unlocking positions without protruding beyond the case perimeter, integrated into the timepiece design for ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking device with a groove and lug is used to block the control member, then the locking function is achieved, but the device can become blocked due to imperfect adjustment between the groove and lug
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the static groove-lug locking mechanism with a dynamic cam-follower system. The cam profile is designed to guide the follower through a controlled translational path, allowing the blocking element to move smoothly between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic approach eliminates the blocking issue caused by static misalignment, as the cam's curved surface ensures continuous contact and guided motion regardless of minor manufacturing tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by transforming the locking mechanism from a positional fit (groove and lug alignment) to a profile-driven motion system. The cam's geometric profile defines the motion parameters of the blocking element, converting rotational input into controlled linear displacement. This parameter transformation ensures reliable locking action while maintaining ease of operation, as the cam profile compensates for adjustment variations.
2Reliability
If the blocking element is designed to lock the member reliably, then the locking function is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the merging principle by integrating multiple functions into the cam component. The cam simultaneously serves as the driving element, the guide for the follower, and the translator of motion from rotational to linear. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts needed compared to traditional locking mechanisms, achieving reliable locking while minimizing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam-follower mechanism serves multiple functions: it locks the control member, guides the blocking element's motion, and provides a mechanical advantage for easy actuation. The same cam profile ensures both the locking position and the unlocking position are achieved reliably. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high reliability.
3Reliability
If the blocking element undergoes translational displacement to lock and unlock the member, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The translational displacement of the blocking element is achieved through the dynamic interaction between the cam and follower. The cam's rotating profile continuously guides the follower's linear motion, ensuring reliable locking and unlocking actions. This dynamic mechanism replaces more complex multi-component locking systems with a simple yet effective two-element interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam acts as an intermediary element that translates the user's rotational input into the blocking element's translational motion. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the overall system by providing a direct mechanical linkage between the driving force and the locking action, eliminating the need for complex transmission mechanisms while ensuring reliable operation.
4Shape
If the blocking element remains concealed beneath the bezel, then the aesthetic integration is improved, but the ease of operation may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing the blocking element and cam mechanism within the existing bezel structure. The blocking element moves within the confined space beneath the bezel, maintaining the case's aesthetic appearance. The cam is integrated into the rotating ring that is itself concealed or partially concealed by the bezel, creating a nested arrangement that preserves design integrity while enabling full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution resolves the contradiction by utilizing the radial dimension - the blocking element moves radially inward and outward beneath the bezel rather than protruding axially. This dimensional approach allows the locking mechanism to remain hidden from the front view while still being accessible to the user's fingers from the side, maintaining both aesthetics and operability.
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 solution provides a reliable and user-friendly locking mechanism that prevents accidental actuation while maintaining an aesthetic integration with the timepiece, ensuring the blocking element remains concealed and engaged, ensuring the device's functionality and usability.
Implementation Method 1
The angular displacement of the part mounted such that it can move in rotation is linked to the translational displacement of the blocking element by drive means. Said drive means comprise a cam disposed on the movable part defining a guide surface for a follower disposed on the blocking element.
Data Source
AI summary
A timepiece includes a locking device capable of blocking the translation of a valve or of a control member in the position the closest to the central axis of the case. The locking device includes a blocking element capable of undergoing translational displacement along a radial axis between a locking position and an unlocking position, where the member is respectively blocked or free to move in translation, a part mounted such that it can move in rotation about the central axis of the case and intended to be set in rotation by a user, drive device linking the angular displacement of the part mounted such that it can move in rotation to the translational displacement of the blocking element between the locking and unlocking positions.