Clockwork Mechanism for Extended Chronograph Time Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional split-seconds chronograph mechanisms are limited in storing time information beyond one minute and cannot accurately display time to the nearest second or fraction of a second, relying on complex kinematic links with the chronograph mechanism and limited by the minute counter's storage capacity.
Innovation Solution
A watch mechanism with separate storage devices for seconds and minutes/hours, using direct and permanent engagement with the going train, and control cams to independently immobilize and synchronize display hands for current and stored time, allowing storage and display of time to the nearest second over several hours.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a conventional split-seconds chronograph mechanism is used, then the mechanism can store seconds information, but the storage capacity is limited to one minute (60 seconds)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the time storage function into separate mechanisms: a first storage mechanism for seconds (with 60-position capacity) and a second storage mechanism for minutes (with 12-position capacity). This segmentation allows the system to store time beyond one minute without requiring a single complex storage device, thereby increasing overall storage capacity while managing complexity through functional division.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the split-seconds chronograph mechanism (first storage mechanism) is integrated within the broader time storage system that also includes the minute storage mechanism. The column wheel that controls the split-seconds hand also controls the minute storage mechanism, creating a hierarchical nesting where one mechanism is embedded within another to achieve extended storage capacity.
2Quantity of substance
If the split-seconds wheel is kinematically linked to the chronograph's counting chain, then the mechanism can store minutes, but the timing capacity is limited to the number of minutes displayed by the chronograph's minute counter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the minute storage function from the chronograph mechanism by introducing a separate second storage mechanism that is not kinematically linked to the chronograph's counting chain. This independent minute storage mechanism can store up to 12 minutes of time information, providing flexibility and adaptability beyond the chronograph's native minute counter capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal time storage system where the same control elements (pushers) can operate both the chronograph function and the independent minute storage function. The system can store and display both chronograph elapsed time and independent time indications, making the mechanism versatile for multiple timekeeping applications beyond the limitations of a single function.
3Ease of operation
If a complex chronograph clutch mechanism is used to selectively connect the split-seconds mechanism to the finishing gear train, then the mechanism can control split-seconds hand movement, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions by using the existing column wheel and pusher mechanism to simultaneously control both the split-seconds chronograph function and the independent minute storage function. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate complex clutch mechanisms for each function, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the minute storage mechanism to be self-regulating through its direct connection to the finishing gear train. The mechanism automatically stores and displays minute information without requiring complex external control systems, as the gear train's natural movement drives the storage and display functions independently.
4Measurement precision
If the split-seconds chronograph is used, then the mechanism can display elapsed time, but it cannot accurately display time to the nearest second or fraction of a second beyond the minute counter's capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the minute storage mechanism continuously track and store minute information in advance through its direct connection to the finishing gear train. This allows the system to maintain precise second-level display capability while simultaneously storing minute-level time information, preparing the display for accurate time indication beyond the one-minute limit.
Data Source
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AI summary
Watch movement (2) comprising a mechanism (3) for indicating and storing time information, the mechanism comprising a display organ (S') for storing stored seconds and/or fractions of stored seconds, a first device (MEM1) for storing seconds and/or fractions of seconds, the storage device comprising a first storage mobile (M1) having a first storage element (MC1) in direct contact with an element (12) of a finishing gear (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) of the watch movement or a first storage element fixed on an element of a finishing gear of the watch movement.