Horological Movement Function Selector With Single-Direction Column Wheel
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Horological movements with more than three functions are complex to implement and operate due to the limited number of axial positions of the winding stem, which are difficult to handle, and additional functions require separate correctors that are cumbersome to use.
Innovation Solution
A device with a selector member and column wheel system that rotates in a single direction, using coaxial cams and transmission yokes to selectively control multiple functions, allowing easy operation and integration within the movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the winding stem is used to control multiple functions by occupying different axial positions, then the number of controllable functions increases, but the device complexity increases significantly and the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from controlling functions through axial positions (vertical dimension) to controlling functions through rotational positions (angular dimension). The column wheel rotates to different angular positions, and the control member engages with specific radial positions on the column wheel's periphery, thereby selecting functions without requiring multiple axial positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control member is divided into multiple engagement elements (such as lugs or projections) that can engage with different radial positions on the column wheel. Each engagement element corresponds to a specific function, allowing the control member to selectively activate different functions by engaging with the column wheel at different angular positions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the winding stem is used to control multiple functions, then more functions can be selected, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in handling the crown
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces axial movement (pushing the crown in/out) with rotational movement (turning the control member). This dimensional change makes operation easier because rotational movement requires less force and is more intuitive for users than manipulating the small crown axially, especially when multiple positions are involved.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate correctors are added to control additional functions, then the number of controllable functions increases, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control member serves multiple functions: it selects functions by engaging with different radial positions on the column wheel, activates the selected function through its movement, and can potentially indicate the selected function through its position. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate corrector mechanisms for each function.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the column wheel rotates in both directions, then the selector member has more flexibility, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The column wheel rotates in discrete angular positions corresponding to different functions. Each rotation step brings a specific radial position into engagement with the control member. This periodic, step-by-step rotation provides sufficient selection flexibility without requiring continuous bidirectional rotation, thereby maintaining mechanical simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for selecting and controlling functions of a horological movement, including a selector member arranged such that, when it is acted on, it causes a column wheel including a plurality of coaxial cams which are integral with one another for rotation as one, to rotate in a single direction of rotation, the device including a plurality of transmission yokes, each of which is arranged such that it bears against a cam specific thereto so as to be able to successively occupy, depending on the angular position of the cam, a rest position and an active position, each transmission yoke being configured such that when it occupies the active position, it is disposed in the path of a control member which is intended, when it is acted on from a rest position, to drive the transmission yoke located in an active position, towards a position for controlling a function specific thereto.