Clasp Locking Device with Cam Blocking Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Luxury watch thefts often involve switching the watches while they are being worn by a user, as the existing clasps can be easily opened by pressing the push-pieces, making them vulnerable to unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A locking device for a clasp that includes a push-piece which can move translatably between a rest position to prevent opening and an active position to allow opening, featuring a blocking member with a cam mechanism that can be locked or unlocked by a user-operated control element, making it difficult to open the clasp without authorization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the clasp uses a simple push-piece mechanism for easy opening, then the ease of operation is improved, but the security against unauthorized opening deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is designed to be movable between a blocking position (where it prevents push-piece movement) and a non-blocking position (where it allows push-piece movement). This dynamic configuration allows the system to switch between secure locked state and easy opening state based on user action, resolving the contradiction between security and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member acts as an intermediary element between the push-piece and the clasp blades. It mediates the interaction by physically preventing the push-piece from moving to the active position unless deliberately unlocked, thus adding a security layer while preserving the original simple operation mechanism
2Reliability
If a blocking member is added to prevent unauthorized opening, then the security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is integrated into the existing push-piece structure, merging the blocking function with the existing component rather than adding a completely separate mechanism. The cam profile and control element are combined within the push-piece assembly, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining security functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member is designed to be automatically engaged and disengaged through user interaction with the control element. The cam profile mechanism self-actuates based on the control element's position, eliminating the need for additional actuators or complex control systems, thus minimizing the increase in device complexity
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 locking device effectively secures the clasp by requiring a deliberate action to unlock it, thereby preventing unauthorized access and reducing the risk of watch theft while being worn.
Implementation Method 1
the blocking member comprising a cam that is capable of moving relative to the push-piece so as to constitute an abutment for the locking rod when the blocking member occupies the locking state, and so as to move out of the path of the locking rod when the blocking member occupies the unlocking state
Implementation Method 2
the push-piece is biased to move towards its rest position by a spring
Data Source
AI summary
A device (10) for locking a clasp (20), including: a push-piece (100) which can move translatably in a support structure (110) between a rest position in which it is intended to prevent the clasp (20) from opening and an active position in which it is intended to no longer prevent the opening of the clasp (20); and a blocking member (120) for blocking the push-piece (100), which member is configured to occupy a locking state in which it immobilises the push-piece (100) in the rest position, and an unlocking state in which it releases the push-piece (100) translatably.