Horology Escapement Angular Reduction Isochronism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mechanical escapements in horology struggle with achieving high isochronism, leading to variations in the periodicity of paced rotary motion, which affects the precision and efficiency of timekeeping mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A mechanical device that doubles the lever connecting the gear with the balance wheel into two articulated components, incorporating a rotating member with external hypoid toothing and a tilting lever, along with articulation means that perform an angular reduction ratio, enhancing the efficiency and precision of the transformation from continuous to paced rotary motion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single lever is used to connect the gear with the balance wheel, then the structure is simpler, but the isochronism and efficiency are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveisochronismVSAvoidlever structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The single lever is divided into two separate levers: a first lever connected to the gear and a second lever connected to the balance wheel. This segmentation allows each lever to be optimized for its specific function, improving the overall isochronism and efficiency of the escapement mechanism while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Use of energy by moving object

If the lever connection is direct without angular reduction, then the structure is simpler, but the energy consumption is higher and wear is greater

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidarticulation means

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Articulation means are introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the first and second levers. This intermediary performs angular reduction, transforming the motion from the gear more efficiently and reducing energy consumption and wear on the components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Power

If thicker springs are used to provide sufficient energy, then the energy delivery is more robust, but the device becomes bulkier and less efficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy deliveryVSAvoidspring thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The articulation means performs an angular reduction ratio that changes the mechanical parameters of the system. This allows thinner, more efficient springs to be used while still delivering sufficient energy to the balance wheel, as the angular reduction optimizes the energy transfer and reduces the power requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Duration of action of stationary object

If conventional escapement mechanisms are used, then the structure is well-established, but friction and wear require frequent lubrication and maintenance

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemaintenance intervalVSAvoidfriction and wear

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The angular reduction ratio performed by the articulation means changes the operational parameters of the escapement mechanism, reducing friction and wear on the components. This extends the maintenance interval and reduces the need for lubrication, making the mechanism more durable and reliable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP2504737B1High efficiency escapement

Publication Date: 2014.08.27 FERRARA

Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3C
Figure 3D~3E

AI summary

A mechanical device for horology, comprising angular reduction means (24, 31, 33) apt to decrease the width of the oscillation of a lever (2) pacing the motion of a gear (1).