Double Folding Clasp with Single-Actuation Merging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wristwatch clasps face issues with user-friendliness, security, and material dependency, as well as rapid wear and complex operation mechanisms, particularly in double folding clasps that rely on elasticity and require multiple manipulations for opening and closing.
Innovation Solution
A double folding clasp design featuring a central blade with pivot-mounted movable blades, where each blade has a rotating lever with a hook-shaped attachment element and an elastic component, allowing simultaneous unlocking and deployment of both blades by actuating one lever, enabling secure closure in any order and minimizing material dependency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a double folding clasp with two independently maneuvered movable blades is used, then the bracelet can be securely closed, but the operation requires two distinct operations and is not user-friendly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the actuation of two movable blades into a single operation by providing a unique notching element that simultaneously engages both blades. When the user manipulates this single notching element, both movable blades are unlocked and can be folded simultaneously, eliminating the need for two separate operations while maintaining secure closure.
2Reliability
If the attachment mechanism uses notching elements for securing blades, then the blades can be locked in place, but the notching elements wear rapidly leading to insecure attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the notching elements by providing complementary notching profiles with specific geometries that distribute mechanical stress more evenly. The first notching element on the central blade and the second notching element on the movable blade are designed with matching profiles that reduce point contact wear, thereby extending the duration of secure attachment.
3Ease of operation
If a button and associated mechanism are added for locking/unlocking blades, then the operation becomes simpler, but the aesthetic appearance is negatively impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the notching element multi-functional by designing it to serve both as the locking mechanism and as the user interface for operation. The same notching element that secures the blade in place also functions as the actuator for unlocking, eliminating the need for separate buttons or mechanisms and maintaining a clean aesthetic appearance.
4Ease of manufacture
If the clasp design depends on blade elasticity for operation, then the blades can be folded and locked, but the characteristics become variable depending on materials used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the notching elements to automatically engage and lock the blades in place through their geometric profiles, eliminating the need for elastic deformation to maintain the locked state. The blades are held securely by the interlocking notching geometry rather than material elasticity, ensuring consistent characteristics regardless of the specific material properties.
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 solution provides a user-friendly, secure, and durable clasp operation that reduces wear and tear, allowing for easy length adjustment without separating the bracelet strands, thus minimizing the risk of the watch falling.
Implementation Method 1
each blade has a rotating lever with a hook-shaped attachment element and an elastic component
Data Source
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Figure 6~8
AI summary
The clasp has movable strips (10, 20) pivoted about a central strip (3) to occupy a closed position for holding a bracelet around wrist of a wearer and an open position for removing the bracelet from hand of the wearer. The strips have an interaction element for interaction between the strips. The element acts on one of the strips when a third strip is actuated in the closing and/or opening phase of the clasp. The third strip includes a finger (15), which contacts on the strips when the third strip is actuated to cause locking/unlocking and/or setting of motion of the strips. An independent claim is also included for a bracelet.