Coaxial Multifunction Corrector for Timepiece Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current timepieces face challenges in providing a simple and elegant user interface for selecting and modifying various functions, such as time, date, and chronograph, due to the need for multiple push-buttons and complex manipulation methods, which complicate user experience and aesthetic design.

Innovation Solution

A coaxial multifunction corrector device with a single external control member, comprising a pusher and control button that can rotate to select functions, driving a control rod with a pinion meshing with a rack, allowing for clear function identification and activation without additional control members on the caseband.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple push-buttons are used to control different functions, then the functionality and ease of operation are improved, but the device complexity and aesthetic quality deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The single control member is designed to perform multiple functions including time correction, date correction, and chronograph control through different manipulation modes (rotation, pushing, pulling). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate push-buttons while maintaining comprehensive control capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control member incorporates dynamic movement capabilities with rotational positions and push/pull actions that activate different functions. The intermediate position during pulling allows for additional functions like alarm setting, creating a dynamic control interface that adapts to different operational needs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If multiple push-buttons are used to control different functions, then the ease of operation is improved, but the aesthetic quality and device simplicity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidaesthetic quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The single control member serves as a universal control interface for all timepiece functions, maintaining a clean and elegant case design without multiple protruding buttons. This preserves the aesthetic quality while providing comprehensive operational control through a unified interface

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If complex manipulation methods are used, then the functionality is improved, but the ease of operation and user experience deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control member operations are segmented into distinct manipulation types (rotation for time, pushing for date, pulling for alarm) that are intuitively associated with different functions. This segmentation provides clear tactile and visual feedback, making the complex functionality easier to operate and understand

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP1939699B1Multifunctional coaxial corrector device
Publication Date: 2012.05.30 MONTRES BREGUET SA
  • EP1939699B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP1939699B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP1939699B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

The device has a drive pinion with a contrate toothing secured directly or indirectly to a control stem, where the control stem is secured to a control button (15). A rack with a toothing meshes with the drive pinions. A rotation of the control button positions the end of a driven arm of a lever opposite a function corrector and set of applications of pressure on a pusher (10) activates the selected function, or alters the selected function, or activates and alters the selected function by causing movement of the rack.