Jumping Seconds Watch Force Control Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical movement watches with jumping seconds mechanisms face challenges in producing a reliable display of constant force without wheel set displacement and risk of desynchronization during winding, leading to high friction and complexity in construction.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical movement watch with a compensation or force control mechanism that includes an accumulation fixed seconds wheel to maintain oscillations of the escapement mechanism in a stop mode before transitioning to a jump mode, using a flirt to rotate the tourbillon cage by 6°, thereby avoiding wheel set displacement and desynchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a constant force device is used to maintain the escapement mechanism in stop phase, then the reliability of jumping seconds display is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components needed to control the winding cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the constant force device with the existing finishing train and escapement mechanism, merging multiple functions into a unified system. The constant force device is integrated such that it utilizes the natural oscillations of the escapement to control the winding cycle, eliminating the need for separate complex control mechanisms while maintaining reliable operation of the jumping seconds display.
2Reliability
If the finishing train is locked during stop phase to compensate frictions, then the reliability of timekeeping is improved, but the angular displacement in stop phase increases causing desynchronization after complete unwinding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic locking mechanism that adjusts the locking state based on the operational phase. During stop phase, the finishing train is selectively locked to compensate for frictions and maintain timekeeping accuracy. However, the system dynamically transitions to an unlocked state during jump phase to allow the necessary angular displacement for second advancement, preventing desynchronization while maintaining both timekeeping reliability and synchronization precision.
3Measurement precision
If the cage of tourbillon performs complete rotation every minute, then the precision of mechanical watch is improved by counterbalancing gravity disturbances, but the torque available in the mechanism decreases making production and reliability difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes in the mechanical configuration to optimize torque distribution. By adjusting the engagement parameters of the constant force device and the rhythm of the finishing train release, the system maintains sufficient torque availability despite the continuous rotation requirements of the tourbillon cage. This allows the tourbillon to perform its gravity-compensating function while providing adequate force for reliable operation of the jumping seconds mechanism.
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
This solution simplifies the production of jumping seconds displays, reduces friction, and maintains synchronization during winding, ensuring reliable operation without the need for complex wheel set displacements.
Implementation Method 1
the force due to gravity when wearing the watch
Data Source
AI summary
A watch (1) with a mechanical movement with force control mechanism, and of the jumping seconds type. The mechanism is disposed in a finishing train of the mechanical movement between an energy source and an escape wheel set (11) linked to an oscillator (14) in oscillation to drive the escape wheel set in the same direction of rotation. The escape wheel set meshes with a seconds wheel (2). A rotary locking element (7) is arranged to cooperate with a stop member (3) mechanically linked to the accumulation seconds wheel to lock in a stop mode or release in a jump mode the finishing train according to the angular position of the seconds wheel. A stop member spring (4) rotates the accumulation fixed seconds wheel and the escapement mechanism linked to the oscillator at each half oscillation of the oscillator in stop mode.