Clock Resonator Frequency Regulation via Hairspring Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional impulse escapements in mechanical watches introduce disturbances that limit chronometric performance, and existing solutions have not effectively avoided these disturbances, affecting the precision of timekeeping.
Innovation Solution
A parametric resonator system is used to maintain and regulate the frequency of a clockwork resonator mechanism by varying one or more of its parameters with a regulation frequency between 0.9 and 1.1 times an integer multiple of the natural frequency, specifically using a sustaining oscillator to modulate the position of the resonator's fixing points and balance spring, reducing the influence of escapement mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional impulse escapements are used in mechanical watches, then the timepiece can maintain oscillations, but disturbances are introduced that limit chronometric performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the conventional impulse escapement mechanism from the timebase. By eliminating the escapement entirely, the harmful periodic disturbances it introduces are removed, allowing the resonator to oscillate freely without interruption or perturbation from escape wheel impulses
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical impulse escapement system with a parametric excitation system. Instead of using mechanical impulses from an escape wheel, the system uses periodic modulation of the resonator's physical parameters (such as stiffness or length) to sustain oscillations, thereby substituting a cleaner, disturbance-free mechanical approach
2Measurement precision
If a parametric resonator system is used to regulate frequency, then precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the frequency regulation function directly into the resonator structure itself. The parametric modulation is achieved by mechanically coupling the resonator to a driving mechanism that periodically varies the resonator's parameters, combining the oscillation and regulation functions in a single integrated system rather than separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic modulation of the resonator's parameters at a frequency equal to twice the natural oscillation frequency. This periodic variation in stiffness or length creates the parametric resonance effect that sustains and regulates the oscillations, achieving precise frequency control through rhythmic parameter changes rather than continuous mechanical intervention
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 approach enhances the precision of mechanical timepieces by stabilizing the frequency and reducing the impact of external disturbances, leading to improved accuracy and stability in timekeeping.
Implementation Method 1
A method for maintaining and regulating the frequency, around its natural frequency, of a clockwork resonator mechanism... with a regulation frequency of said regulating device which is between 0.9 times and 1.1 times the value of an integer multiple of said natural frequency
Data Source
Figure 1~4
AI summary
Method for maintaining and regulating a resonator mechanism (1) of a clock around its natural frequency (ω0). At least one regulating device (2) is implemented, imparting a periodic motion to at least one component of said resonator mechanism (1). This periodic motion imposes a periodic modulation of at least the resting point of said resonator mechanism (1). This periodic motion is imparted with a regulating frequency (ωR) that is between 0.9 times and 1.1 times the value of an integer multiple of said natural frequency (ω0). This method is applied to a resonator mechanism (1) with a balance wheel and hairspring assembly (3), the hairspring (4) of which is held between a stud (5) at a first external end (6) and a ferrule (7) at a second internal end (8), and at least one said regulating device (2) acts on at least said stud (5).