Elastic Trim Element for Timepiece Decorative Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watchmaking technologies require inefficient individual installation and difficult removal of decorative elements, with locking systems that risk damage and limit design possibilities due to the use of studs and O-rings.
Innovation Solution
A trim element for timepieces featuring a frame with housings and a reversible locking system using elastic connecting elements, such as a hub, allowing for simultaneous mounting and precise positioning of decorative elements without manual finishing, and a compact locking system with studs and lugs that simplifies assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking system with studs and O-rings is used to hold decorative elements, then the decorative elements are securely held in place, but the installation and removal processes become complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into modular components: a crown-shaped stud with notches, corresponding notches in the housing, and elastic arms with lugs. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while simplifying the overall assembly and disassembly process compared to a monolithic locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The O-ring component is completely extracted from the locking system. The patent replaces the O-ring with a purely mechanical engagement between the stud notches and housing notches, eliminating the need for elastic seals and reducing the number of parts that require installation and removal.
2Reliability
If studs and O-rings are used to lock decorative elements, then secure holding is achieved, but the risk of damage during removal increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is designed to be self-releasing through the interaction of the crown-shaped stud notches and housing notches. The elastic arms with lugs automatically engage with the notches during assembly and can be easily disengaged by simple manipulation, eliminating the need for external tools like pliers that could cause damage.
3Reliability
If individual decorative elements are installed separately using a locking system, then each element is securely fixed, but the installation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple decorative elements are merged into a single integrated assembly that shares common mounting features. The elastic arms with lugs can engage multiple studs simultaneously, allowing several decorative elements to be installed in one operation rather than requiring separate installation procedures for each element.
4Manufacturing precision
If shoulders are used to position decorative elements in the locking system, then precise positioning is achieved, but design possibilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system transitions from static shoulders to dynamic elastic arms with lugs. The elastic arms can flex to accommodate slight variations in positioning while maintaining secure engagement, and the crown-shaped stud with notches provides multiple engagement points that allow for greater design flexibility without sacrificing precision.
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
Enables easy and precise installation of multiple decorative elements with reduced risk of damage, eliminating the need for shoulders and O-rings, and providing enhanced design flexibility and manufacturing precision.
Implementation Method 1
The elasticity of the connecting element allows for some deformation of the decorative element to compensate for these tolerances without requiring manual finishing.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
A decorative element (1) for a timepiece, comprising: - a frame (3) including at least one housing (5); - a decorative element (7) housed at least partially within said housing (5); - a locking system (19, 21) arranged to retain said decorative element (7) within said housing. According to the invention, said decorative element (7) comprises a first body (9) connected to a second body (9) by means of at least one elastic connecting element (11), each body (9) being located within a corresponding housing (5).