Compact Date Display Mechanism Using Dual-Tooth Control Wheel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing date display mechanisms in timepieces are bulky and complex, requiring numerous components and intricate assemblies, which complicates their integration into clock movements and increases production thickness.
Innovation Solution
A simplified control mobile for date display devices is introduced, utilizing a two-level arrangement of toothings with complementary profiles to drive tens and units discs, minimizing the number of components and thickness, while maintaining reliable operation and compact size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a three-level control mobile with multiple wheels is used for date display, then the date indication function is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and complex to integrate into clock movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control functions for both the units disc and tens disc into a single control wheel. The control wheel features two distinct toothing profiles: a first toothing (31 teeth) that engages with the units disc, and a second toothing (4 teeth) that engages with the tens disc. This merging of control functions eliminates the need for separate control wheels for each disc, significantly reducing the number of components and simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliable date indication functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The control wheel serves multiple functions simultaneously: it controls the rotation of both the units disc and tens disc, and it integrates the driving mechanism for both discs into a single component. The wheel's dual toothing configuration allows it to universally control both display elements, reducing the need for separate control mechanisms and simplifying the date display system
2Reliability
If a three-level control mobile with multiple wheels is used for date display, then the date indication function is achieved, but the mechanism requires a large number of components and rigorous assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control functions for both the units disc and tens disc into a single control wheel. The control wheel features two distinct toothing profiles: a first toothing (31 teeth) that engages with the units disc, and a second toothing (4 teeth) that engages with the tens disc. This merging of control functions eliminates the need for separate control wheels for each disc, significantly reducing the number of components and simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliable date indication functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The control wheel is segmented into distinct functional zones with different toothing profiles. The first toothing (31 teeth) is dedicated to controlling the units disc, while the second toothing (4 teeth) controls the tens disc. This segmentation of functions within a single component allows for simplified manufacturing and assembly, as each toothing profile can be independently designed and manufactured, then integrated into the single control wheel structure
3Measurement precision
If conventional date display mechanisms are used, then accurate date indication is provided, but the mechanism thickness is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the control wheel with its dual toothing profiles engages with both the units disc and tens disc in a compact configuration. The tens disc and units disc are arranged concentrically, with the control wheel positioned to simultaneously engage both discs through its two different toothing profiles. This nesting of components in a compact radial arrangement minimizes the axial thickness of the date display mechanism while maintaining accurate date indication functionality
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (100) for displaying a time indication comprising: - a first moving part (3) including a first toothed part (31) and a first disc (32) bearing numbers (33) intended to indicate the units of the time indication, - a second moving part (4) including a second toothed part (41) and a second disc (42) bearing numbers (43) intended to indicate the tens of the time indication, and - a mechanism (90) for driving the first and second moving parts, the mechanism comprising: o a control moving part (1) comprising: ■ a third toothed part (1a) arranged so as to cooperate by blocking with the first toothed part, ■ a fourth toothed part (1b) arranged so as to cooperate by blocking with the second toothed part, o a drive wheel (2) comprising a fifth toothed part (2c) arranged so as to cooperate by blocking with the third and fourth toothed parts.