Micro-Generator LED Speed Regulation for Timepiece Rotating Mobiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch mechanisms face challenges in regulating the speed of rotating elements, particularly in high-end mechanical watches, due to the limited space and the need to maintain a mechanical character, while existing electronic solutions are bulky and visible, compromising the aesthetic integrity.
Innovation Solution
A micro-generator system with a stator and rotor, coupled to a rotating wheel, powers light-emitting diodes to regulate speed without electronic circuits, using induced voltage to maintain rotational frequency within a desired range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electronic circuits are used to regulate the speed of rotating elements, then speed regulation precision is improved, but device complexity and visible electronic components increase, compromising aesthetic integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic speed regulation circuits with a purely mechanical regulation system. The mechanical regulator uses a balance wheel, spiral spring, and escapement mechanism to control the rotation speed of the rotating element, eliminating the need for electronic circuits while maintaining regulation precision suitable for watchmaking applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes electronic circuit components from the speed regulation system, isolating the regulation function to a dedicated mechanical regulator module. This separation eliminates visible electronic components from the main watch mechanism while preserving the necessary speed control functionality through mechanical means.
2Speed
If electromagnetic regulators or eddy current regulators are used, then speed regulation is achieved, but cost increases and components become delicate requiring special maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electromagnetic and eddy current regulators with a purely mechanical regulator system. The mechanical regulator employs traditional horological components such as a balance wheel, spiral spring, and escapement that are proven to be durable, maintainable, and suitable for the precision requirements of watchmaking, eliminating the delicacy and maintenance issues associated with electromagnetic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical regulator system is designed to be self-regulating and self-maintaining within the normal operating conditions of a watch. The balance wheel and spiral spring automatically adjust to maintain constant rotation speed without requiring external power sources or delicate electronic controls, making the system more reliable and easier to maintain in the long term.
3Speed
If early mechanical regulators like centrifugal governors are used, then speed regulation is achieved, but the solution is not suitable for watches due to space constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a compact mechanical regulator where components are nested within each other to minimize space occupation. The balance wheel is positioned centrally with the spiral spring wound around its periphery, and the escapement mechanism is integrated into the same plane, creating a space-efficient arrangement that fits within the limited volume of a watch movement while maintaining effective speed regulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the three-dimensional space within the watch movement more effectively by arranging regulator components in multiple layers and orientations. The balance wheel operates in one plane while the spiral spring utilizes the radial dimension, and the escapement engages with gear teeth in a vertical dimension, maximizing the use of available space without increasing the overall footprint of the regulator.
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 system effectively regulates rotational speed within a narrow range, maintaining mechanical integrity and aesthetic appeal, eliminating the need for bulky electronic components and allowing for a compact, high-end watch design.
Implementation Method 1
a micro-generator which includes a stator and a rotor mechanically coupled to the rotating wheel... the stator carrying permanent magnets or coils and the rotor carrying coils or permanent magnets respectively
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
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AI summary
One aspect of the invention relates to a timepiece with, for regulating the rotational speed of a rotating wheel, a regulation device comprising a micro-generator and at least one LED powered by the micro-generator without electrical energy storage and arranged so that, for a functional speed range of the rotating wheel (Vmin; Vmax), the corresponding frequency range (Fmin; Fmax) of rotation of the micro-generator rotor generates, in the coils thereof, a range of induced voltage whose maximum voltage value for said maximum frequency (Fmax) is greater than a threshold voltage (Us), preferably also the minimum voltage value for said minimum frequency (Fmin), the motor device which drives the rotating wheel being arranged so as to have a useful range of motor torque allowing the rotating wheel to be driven substantially within said functional speed range.The invention also relates to a method for regulating the rotational speed of the rotating mobile.