Interchangeable Watch Bezel Bayonet Keying for Precise Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bayonet mounts for interchangeable bezels on watches do not guarantee correct positioning, allowing for multiple angular positions and potential incorrect mounting.
Innovation Solution
A bayonet fixing device with a keying system that ensures a single snap-in position by using first and second complementary fixing means, along with elastic elements and rotational locking features to secure the bezel in a precise orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a bayonet mounting device is used to allow easy replacement of the bezel, then the ease of operation is improved, but the positioning precision deteriorates because multiple angular positions are possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by providing only one insertion recess among multiple protrusions, and only one protrusion among multiple insertion recesses. This asymmetric configuration ensures that the bezel can only be mounted in a single correct angular position, eliminating the problem of multiple possible orientations while maintaining the ease of bayonet-style replacement
2Ease of operation
If elastic means are used to secure the removable lens, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because the device is not firm enough to prevent accidental loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the attachment mechanism into distinct functional elements: elastic elements provide the necessary holding force for secure attachment, while separate locking elements (protrusions and recesses) provide mechanical interlocking for reliable security. This segmentation allows each element to optimize its specific function without compromise
3Ease of operation
If a snap-on device is used for the bezel, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to difficulty in compromising between flexibility and firmness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two previously separate mechanisms into a unified bayonet mounting device: the elastic element mechanism provides flexible attachment and release, while the locking elements (protrusions and recesses) provide firm mechanical interlocking. The combination allows the bezel to be easily attached and detached while ensuring reliable security during wear
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 bayonet fixing device provides secure, error-proof mounting and dismounting of interchangeable bezels, ensuring correct angular alignment and preventing accidental loss or misalignment.
Implementation Method 1
The bayonet mounting device comprises two elastic elements housed in the annular groove of the case and bearing between a circular bearing surface and an upper collar of the case, each of the elastic elements being configured to cooperate with one of the two tabs of the scope and to exert a force in an axial direction, parallel to the central axis B, on said at least of the two tabs so as to constrain the scope against said circular bearing surface of said case
Data Source
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AI summary
One aspect of the invention relates to a watch part (1) comprising a case (110) and an interchangeable bezel (200) fixed to said case (110) by relative rotation of the bezel (200) vis-à-vis the case (110), along a central axis (B), between a snap-fit position and a locked position, by a bayonet fastening device (300), said bayonet fastening device (300) comprising first fastening means (300a) provided on the case (110) and second complementary fastening means (300b) provided on the bezel (200), characterized in that the bayonet fastening device (300) comprises a keying system (210, 116) to define a single snap-fit position of said bezel (200) on the case (110).