Chronograph Control Lever With Locked Release Triggering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control devices for chronograph mechanisms are complex, bulky, and suffer from precision issues due to wear, leading to inconsistent triggering of the reset function.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a locking member that switches from a locking to a neutralized configuration synchronized with the lever's triggering position, using an elastic return mechanism to ensure precise and durable 'all-or-nothing' operation, reducing component count and size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a complex construction with multiple components is used to ensure precise triggering, then triggering precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate components from the control device. Instead of using complex multi-component mechanisms with multiple springs and levers, the invention directly connects the actuating member to the watch mechanism, removing redundant elements while maintaining precise triggering through the simplified lever and elastic return member arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the actuating element, the energy storage mechanism, and the triggering switch. The elastic return member both returns the lever to its initial position and provides the energy for the actuation. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining precise control.
2Reliability
If a bulky construction with large components is used to ensure reliable operation, then reliability is improved, but the timepiece size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional elements into compact integrated components. The lever combines the actuating arm and energy storage function, while the elastic return member integrates the return mechanism and energy source. This consolidation maintains reliable operation through robust mechanical connections while significantly reducing the overall volume required for the control device.
3Reliability
If wear-resistant components are used to maintain consistent triggering, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control device into two main functional parts: the lever assembly and the elastic return member. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using standard processes, then assembled together. The simplified geometry of these segmented components makes them easier to manufacture while maintaining the wear-resistant characteristics needed for consistent triggering over time.
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 simple, robust control device that guarantees precise and consistent triggering of the chronograph mechanism, independent of wear and movement, with reduced size and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic return member arranged to return the lever to its rest position
Implementation Method 2
a mechanical energy storage member interposed between the lever and the actuating member, and arranged in such a way that it is charged when the lever moves towards its triggering position, and that it can be discharged when the lever reaches its triggering position
Data Source
AI summary
A control device is disclosed, which comprises:a lever movable between a rest position and a triggering position,a spring arranged to return the lever in its rest position,an actuating member movable between a neutral position and an actuating position in which it actuates a watch mechanism,a mechanical energy storage member interposed between the lever and the actuating member in such a way that it is charged when the lever moves towards its triggering position, and can be discharged when the lever reaches its triggering position by moving the actuating member towards its actuating position,the device comprising a locking member intended to release the actuating member only when the lever reaches its triggering position.