Horological Module Automatic Locking via Barrel-Mounted Cam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing horological modules that require automatic stoppage after a predetermined operating period are complex and occupy excessive space, lacking efficient means for locking mechanisms before the barrel is completely discharged.
Innovation Solution
A horological module with a rotary cam mounted on the barrel, featuring a movable body that automatically transitions from a retracted position to a locking position, allowing the mechanical device to operate for a predefined time before locking, thereby eliminating the need for additional geartrains and reducing module size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automatic locking means are implemented using a lever cooperating with a rotary cam and additional geartrains, then the mechanism can be locked after a predetermined time, but the device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the rotary cam directly with the barrel by mounting the cam on the barrel, eliminating the need for separate geartrains to drive the cam. This integration reduces the number of components and simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining the automatic locking function after a predetermined operating period
Solution Approach 2:
The barrel serves multiple functions: it stores energy to drive the mechanical device and simultaneously drives the rotary cam through its rotation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated drive mechanisms for the cam, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable automatic locking
2Reliability
If automatic locking means are implemented using a lever cooperating with a rotary cam and additional geartrains, then the mechanism can be locked after a predetermined time, but the volume occupied by the module increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the rotary cam directly onto the barrel, the patent eliminates the space required for intermediate geartrains and reduces the overall module volume. The cam and barrel share the same mounting location, compacting the design while preserving the automatic locking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the unnecessary intermediate geartrains from the mechanism, retaining only the essential components (barrel, cam, and movable body) required for the automatic locking function. This reduction in components directly decreases the module volume
Data Source
AI summary
A horological module (1) for a horological movement, for example an automaton or a ringing mechanism, the horological module (1) including a plate (2) and a mechanical device (10) able to pass from an idle state, wherein the mechanical device (10) is immobile with respect to the plate (2), to an operating state, wherein at least a part of the mechanical device (10) is able to move with respect to the plate (2) when it is actuated. A barrel (3) provides energy to the mechanical device (10), and a geartrain (20) is actuated by the barrel (3). An element (30) automatically locks the mechanical device (10), and includes a rotary cam (4) and a movable body (7) cooperating with the rotary cam (4), the movable body (7) being able to move between a locking position, in the idle state, and a retracted position, in the operating state).