Constant-Force Escapement Mechanism Single Anchor Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing direct constant-force escapement mechanisms for mechanical clock movements are complex, particularly due to the presence of two anchors, which complicates their design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A direct constant-force escapement mechanism with a single anchor, featuring an escape wheel set with a coaxially mounted upper escape wheel, a constant-force spring, and an anchor with a fork and pallet system that allows for high amplitude operation without the need for multiple anchors, enabling efficient energy transfer and reduced complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two anchors are used in the escapement mechanism, then the constant force function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate anchors into a single anchor with two pallets (entry pallet and exit pallet). This single anchor performs the constant force regulation function that previously required two separate anchors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the constant force capability. The unified anchor structure integrates multiple functions into one component.
Solution Approach 2:
The single anchor is designed with multi-functionality, where one anchor structure serves multiple purposes: it controls both the entry and exit of the escape wheel, maintains constant force through its pallet geometry, and enables high amplitude oscillations. This universal design replaces the need for two specialized anchors.
2Manufacturing precision
If the angular travel between two escapement wheels is limited by a screw and radial arm, then the amplitude is controlled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a complex screw and radial arm mechanism to limit angular travel, the patent inverts the approach by using the natural geometry of the pallets and the constant force spring to inherently define and limit the angular amplitude. The amplitude control is built into the fundamental geometry of the escapement components rather than being imposed by an additional limiting mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The escapement mechanism self-regulates its angular amplitude through the geometric relationship between the pallets and escape wheels, combined with the constant force spring's torque characteristics. The system automatically maintains the correct amplitude without requiring external adjustment mechanisms, making the amplitude control self-service.
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 mechanism achieves high chronometric precision and increased power storage in the oscillator, allowing the balance wheel to perform multiple turns per alternation while minimizing energy loss, and can operate with alternations greater than 360°, enhancing the mechanical timepiece's accuracy and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a constant-force spring connecting the lower escape wheel to the upper escape wheel
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~6
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a direct mechanical constant-force escapement mechanism comprising an escape wheel having an escape pinion, a lower escape wheel (30; 40), an upper escape wheel (31; 44) coaxial with the lower escape wheel (30; 40) and capable of angular displacement relative to this lower escape wheel (30; 40) by a predetermined amplitude, and a constant-force spring (46) connecting the lower escape wheel (30; 40) to the upper escape wheel (31; 44). This escapement mechanism further comprises an oscillator wheel (33; 51) and an anchor wheel (32; 47) having an input pallet (E) cooperating with one of the escape wheels and an output pallet (S) cooperating with the other escape wheel; this anchor (32; 47) also comprising a fork (36; 48) cooperating with the oscillator mobile (33; 51).The invention also relates to a timepiece comprising such an escapement mechanism.