Interlocking Watch Case Base for Modular Strap Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing watch cases with interchangeable parts are costly and time-consuming to assemble, requiring multiple steps and specific treatments for decorative pieces, leading to increased manufacturing time and storage needs.

Innovation Solution

A watch design featuring interlocking shaped elements with aligned orifices and cutouts, made from elastomeric, plastic, or metal materials, allowing for easy assembly and customization, with a sole that fits between the horns and a bracelet strand that adapts to the curvature of the wrist, using a bar for secure locking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a watch case is composed of multiple interchangeable parts to enable customization, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization capabilityVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The watch case is divided into multiple interchangeable components including a case body, a base, and a decorative cover. Each component can be manufactured separately and assembled in different combinations to create customized watch designs, enabling adaptability while managing complexity through modular segmentation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base component is designed with universal features that can accommodate different case bodies and decorative covers. The base includes standardized mounting structures and shaped elements that work across multiple configurations, allowing one component to serve multiple functions in different customization scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple interchangeable parts are used for customization, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization capabilityVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The base component is pre-formed with integrated shaped elements and mounting structures during a single manufacturing process. This preliminary preparation of the base with built-in connection features eliminates the need for additional assembly steps when combining with case bodies and decorative covers, reducing overall manufacturing time while maintaining customization options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If decorative components require specific treatments for aesthetic effects, then the adaptability is improved, but the storage requirements and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic varietyVSAvoidstorage space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The decorative cover is merged with the base through interlocking shaped elements, creating an integrated assembly. This merging eliminates the need to store and manage separate decorative components for each aesthetic variation, as the base structure supports multiple decorative configurations through its standardized interface, reducing storage requirements while maintaining aesthetic variety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3958069B1Watch case provided with a trim component
Publication Date: 2024.06.12 THE SWATCH GRP RES & DEVELONMENT LTD
  • EP3958069B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3958069B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP3958069B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The invention relates to a timepiece comprising a watch case formed by a case closed by a back and a crystal, the case being provided with lugs defining a space for receiving a strap strand, said timepiece comprising a base arranged to rest against the back, the base, the strap strand and the space between the lugs comprising shaped elements arranged to cooperate by interlocking when the case, the base and the strand are assembled.