Horology Connection Ring with Elastic Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mechanically connecting horology components, such as dials and movement blanks in timepieces, face issues with bulky designs, unreliable retention forces due to material aging and tolerance variations, and complexity in assembly, especially when using synthetic materials or fragile components.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical connection ring with elastic arms that deform in bending or compression to securely attach a dial or wheel to a movement blank, providing controlled retention forces and minimizing axial force and torque requirements, allowing for precise positioning and reduced bulkiness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screws are used to press against dial feet to immobilize them, then the connection is secure, but the assembly becomes bulky and complex to manipulate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible ring made of elastic material that deforms to engage with the dial foot and frame. This thin, flexible structure replaces multiple rigid screws, achieving secure connection while reducing bulk and simplifying assembly. The elastic ring can be easily inserted and deforms to create retention force, eliminating the need for complex screw manipulation.
2Reliability
If synthetic materials are used for the connecting ring, then sticking between the ring and dial foot is avoided, but the retention forces become too weak and vary with tolerance variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite structure combining an elastic ring material with appropriate friction characteristics. The ring material is selected to provide both adequate retention force and controlled friction以防止sticking. The elastic properties of the ring material allow it to deform and engage securely with the dial foot while maintaining consistent retention forces despite tolerance variations.
3Ease of manufacture
If elastic portions extend parallel to the dial foot direction to allow assembly, then the sleeve can be fitted into the plate and foot assembled, but the axial dimension becomes particularly bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the orientation of the elastic portions from axial (parallel to dial foot direction) to radial (perpendicular to dial foot direction). The elastic portions extend radially outward from the ring, allowing the ring to deform elastically during assembly to engage with the frame and dial foot. This dimensional change maintains assembly ease while significantly reducing the axial dimension and bulkiness of the connecting structure.
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
The ring achieves reliable and controlled mechanical connections with reduced axial and torque forces, enhancing assembly simplicity and stability while minimizing material stress and bulkiness, thus improving the reliability and efficiency of horology component integration.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first elastic arm arranged and/or configured in such a way as to press against a first horology component; and at least one second elastic arm arranged and/or configured in such a way as to press against a second horology component
Data Source
AI summary
Ring (1) for mechanically connecting a first horology component (2) to a second horology component (3), the ring having at least one first elastic arm (11) arranged and/or configured in such a way as to press against a first horology component (2); and at least one second elastic arm (12) arranged and/or configured in such a way as to press against a second horology component (3).