Dual Time-Zone Movement With Superimposed Hands for Quick Reset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual time-zone mechanisms in timepieces are complex, requiring numerous components and time-consuming adjustments, and do not allow for easy correction and reset of the second time zone.
Innovation Solution
A timepiece movement with a mechanism that superimposes current and local hour hands at the center, allowing for easy adjustment and synchronization of the local hour hand via a rocker and jumper spring system, enabling correction by one-twelfth or one-twenty-fourth of a revolution with a push-button.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dual time-zone mechanisms are used, then two time zones can be displayed, but the mechanism becomes very complex involving two differentials and a large number of components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the local hour display mechanism with the current hour mechanism by sharing the same central axis and using a single differential. The local hour hand and current hour hand are superimposed on the same display location, eliminating the need for separate display mechanisms and reducing overall complexity while maintaining dual time zone functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The single differential serves multiple functions: it drives both the local hour hand and the current hour hand, and it enables both the setting mechanism and synchronization mechanism to operate through the same central wheel. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed compared to traditional designs
2Ease of operation
If traditional correction mechanisms are used, then time zones can be corrected, but resetting the second time zone is time-consuming requiring incremental adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The setting mechanism pre-positions the local hour hand at the correct hour position before synchronization occurs. When the synchronization button is pressed, the heart-shaped cam immediately transfers the local hour hand to match the current hour hand position without requiring incremental adjustments, thus performing the correction action in advance and executing it instantly
Solution Approach 2:
The heart-shaped cam acts as an intermediary mechanism that enables instantaneous transfer of the local hour hand position. Instead of requiring incremental step-by-step adjustment, the cam's geometry allows the local hour hand to be rapidly repositioned to any hour mark by rotating the central wheel, significantly reducing reset time
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the complication constantly rotates with current hour completing 360° in twelve or twenty-four hours, then continuous time zone display is achieved, but traditional correction and reset principles become unusable
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism dynamically adapts its correction approach based on the rotating complication's position. The heart-shaped cam is designed to engage with the central wheel at specific points during its rotation, allowing correction actions to be taken at any time regardless of the complication's rotational position. This dynamic design maintains continuous display while enabling usable correction throughout the rotation cycle
Solution Approach 2:
The setting and synchronization mechanisms are designed to work continuously with the rotating complication without interruption. The heart-shaped cam maintains engagement with the central wheel throughout the rotation, allowing the user to correct and synchronize time zones at any moment during the twelve or twenty-four hour cycle, ensuring continuous operational capability
Data Source
AI summary
A timepiece movement comprising a device for displaying the time in at least two time zones, the display device comprising a minute display member, a member for displaying the current hour representing a first time zone, a member for displaying the local hour representing a second time zone, the member for displaying the current hour and the member for displaying the local hour being superimposed, the movement further comprising a mechanism for setting the time in the second time zone, arranged to move the member for displaying the local hour, and a mechanism for synchronizing the member for displaying the current hour and the member for displaying the local hour, arranged to reposition the member for displaying the local hour so as to be superimposed with the member for displaying the current hour in order to leave only one hour-indicating member visible.