Single Push-Piece Chronograph Shuttle Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional single push-piece chronographs require three applications of pressure to complete an operating cycle, which can be cumbersome for users.
Innovation Solution
A chronograph design that utilizes a pivotably mounted shuttle with two stable angular positions and an inclined surface between them, allowing the shuttle to pivot from one stable position to another with a first application of pressure and from the second stable position to an unstable position with a second application, enabling a three-phase cycle in just two pressure applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional single push-piece chronograph uses three stable positions for the shuttle, then the chronograph can complete a full operating cycle, but it requires three applications of pressure which is cumbersome for users
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the parameter of shuttle positions from three stable positions to two stable positions plus one unstable intermediate position. This is achieved by modifying the angular sector geometry to include an inclined surface that creates an unstable equilibrium position, allowing the shuttle to pass through intermediate states without requiring a third stable position, thereby reducing the number of pressure applications needed
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamics by making one of the shuttle positions unstable rather than stable. The inclined surface creates a position where the shuttle naturally wants to move but is temporarily held by the push-piece pressure. This dynamic unstable position allows the chronograph to complete its cycle in two pressure applications instead of three, as the shuttle automatically transitions from the unstable position back to a stable position after the pressure is released
2Productivity
If the shuttle has only two stable positions, then the operating cycle can be completed in two pressure applications, but the inclined surface creates an unstable position that requires additional locking means
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the locking function with the existing push-piece and shuttle structure. The locking means are integrated into the push-piece mechanism itself, combining the pressure application function with the unstable position locking function in a single integrated system, thereby minimizing additional complexity while enabling the two-pressure-application cycle
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
This design reduces the number of pressure applications required to complete an operating cycle from three to two, enhancing user convenience while maintaining a conventional three-phase chronograph functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member cooperating with the notches to hold the shuttle in one of the stable positions, and a push-piece cooperating with the cut out portions to pivot the shuttle
Implementation Method 2
the control device for the coupling means further includes means for locking the shuttle in a third unstable position when the push-piece is pushed in
Data Source
AI summary
A chronograph includes a chronograph train, means for coupling the train and a device for controlling the coupling means, which includes:a pivotably mounted shuttle, a first angular sector provided with two notches defining first and second stable angular positions, and a second angular sector that includes cut out portions,an elastic member cooperating with the notches to keep the shuttle in one of the stable positions, anda push-piece cooperating with the cut out portions to pivot the shuttle, via a first application of pressure, from the first stable position to the second stable position, and via a second application of pressure, from the second stable position to a third intermediate angular position.