Magnetic Watch Adjustment Through Case Back
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical adjustment systems for watches require mechanical arbors with seals, which are cumbersome and prone to water leakage, and often require adjustments to be made with the watch open, leading to inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
A horological assembly using a magneto-coupler to transmit torque through the watch casing without direct contact, allowing for adjustments and energy recharging of the watch without the need for mechanical arbors or seals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical arbor with seal is used to adjust watch functions through the casing, then mechanical coupling is achieved, but water resistance is compromised and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical arbor system with a magnetic field-based coupling system. Magnets embedded in the case back interact with ferromagnetic elements inside the movement, transmitting rotational force without physical penetration. This eliminates seals and mechanical wear points while maintaining water resistance and reducing overall mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary between the external adjustment tool and the internal movement components. The magnets in the case back and ferromagnetic elements inside the movement create a magnetic coupling that transmits torque without direct mechanical contact, serving as a non-contact mediator that preserves water resistance.
2Manufacturing precision
If adjustments are made with the watch open, then mechanical access is easier, but adjustment precision deteriorates due to casing interference
Solution Approach 1:
By using magnetic coupling through the closed case back, the system enables precise adjustments without opening the watch. The magnetic field penetrates the case back material, allowing the adjustment tool to engage internal components while the watch remains closed, eliminating casing interference and improving adjustment precision.
3Reliability
If multiple seals are installed to maintain water resistance, then water protection is improved, but device complexity and potential failure points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system replaces the need for mechanical arbors that would require seals. By transmitting rotational force through magnetic fields rather than mechanical contact through the case back, the system maintains water protection without requiring additional seals or mechanical penetration points, thereby reducing complexity and potential failure points.
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 enables precise mechanical adjustments and energy recharging of watches without compromising water resistance, and allows for adjustments to be made with the watch closed, improving accuracy and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
by means of a magneto-coupler
Implementation Method 2
magnetic areas (210) which are arranged to cooperate, by attraction or repulsion, with a first internal mobile (1)
Data Source
AI summary
One aspect of the invention relates to a horological assembly (2000) including a watch (1000) and an adjustment tool (200) for driving, without direct contact, a first mobile (1) internal to the watch (1000) throughout its case, for adjustment and/or recharging, the adjustment tool (200) including first magnetic areas (210) cooperating in attraction or repulsion with the first mobile (1) which is pivotably and axially movable about a first axis (D1) against an elastic return means (5) fastened to the case (10), between an active position in which the adjustment tool (200) draws the first mobile (1) towards an end-of-travel surface (6) in an engaged position with a second mobile (7) inside the case (10), and an inactive position in the absence of the adjustment tool (200) and in which the elastic return means (5) keeps the first mobile (1) disengaged from the second mobile (7).