Dual-Indicator Timepiece Correction With Linear Return Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clockwork mechanisms for independent correction of indicator bodies require precise and close arrangements, limiting freedom in dial placement and operation, and often necessitate complex constructions with many teeth to minimize travel, which can lead to inaccurate and unreliable corrections.
Innovation Solution
A correction device with two correcting members that move in a rectilinear translational motion, allowing independent correction of indicator organs, with an actuation device controlling the movement between extreme positions, ensuring accurate and reliable operation while providing greater freedom in arrangement and force transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rocker arm construction is used for independent correction of two indicator bodies, then correction function is achieved, but the indicators must be arranged very close together which limits dial placement freedom
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar rocker arm mechanism to a three-dimensional stackable correction device. The correction device comprises a first correction member for a first indicator body and a second correction member for a second indicator body, arranged vertically or in different spatial planes, allowing independent correction without requiring close horizontal arrangement of indicators.
Solution Approach 2:
The correction device is segmented into separate correction members for each indicator body. Each correction member can be independently activated through the control member, allowing one indicator to be corrected while the other remains unaffected. This segmentation enables independent operation without the mechanical coupling inherent in rocker arm designs.
2Ease of operation
If a rocker arm construction is used with close arrangement of indicators, then independent correction is possible, but the construction must be very precise to avoid mistaken correction
Solution Approach 1:
The correction device is segmented into separate correction members for each indicator body. Each correction member can be independently activated through the control member, allowing one indicator to be corrected while the other remains unaffected. This segmentation enables independent operation without the mechanical coupling inherent in rocker arm designs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the indicators are arranged far apart, then dial placement freedom is improved, but the correction device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control member serves multiple functions: it can selectively activate the first correction member, the second correction member, or both simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows the correction device to handle various correction scenarios (one indicator at a time, both indicators, or sequential correction) without requiring separate mechanisms for each case, thereby simplifying the overall construction despite the increased spatial separation of indicators.
4Length of moving object
If a large number of teeth on the star wheel is used, then the rocker arm's angle of movement is minimized, but the diameter of the drive wheel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional star wheel and rocker arm mechanical system with a different correction mechanism. The correction device uses a control member that can selectively engage with correction members through a different transmission mechanism, eliminating the need for a large-diameter star wheel and minimizing the movement angle requirements.
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 enables independent and accurate correction of indicator organs with increased freedom in placement and simplified construction, enhancing the organization and functionality of watch movements.
Implementation Method 1
the return to the neutral position being ensured by an elastic return member associated with the correction device
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a clockwork mechanism comprising a correction device (1) for two indicating members, an actuation device (14) for said correction device (1), and a control member (16). Said correction device (1) is provided with two respective correcting members (10, 12) and is arranged to be movable up to a first extreme correction position (P1) to allow one of the correcting members (10, 12) to act on the associated indicating member to correct it, and up to a second extreme correction position (P2) to allow the other of the correcting members (10, 12) to act on the associated indicating member to correct it.The actuating device (14) is arranged so that it can be controlled by the control member (16) to move said correction device (1) to one of its extreme correction positions (P1, P2) in order to correct one or the other of said indicator members independently. The correction device (1) is arranged so that it can be moved selectively by said actuating device (14), via the control member (16), in a rectilinear translational movement from a neutral position (P0) in one direction between the neutral position (P0) and the first extreme correction position (P1), and in the other direction between the neutral position (P0) and the second extreme correction position (P2), the return to the neutral position (P0) being ensured by an elastic return member (18) associated with the correction device (1).