Modular Timepiece Display with Intermediate Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing modular display systems for timepieces require modifications and reengineering to produce varied watch models, leading to increased production complexity and storage of multiple component references, as each module is designed for specific predefined display functions.
Innovation Solution
A modular display system with an intermediate support that allows for multiple mounting positions and types of display devices on a single basic movement, using a circular rail or frame with strategically positioned orifices and holes for flexible positioning, enabling various display configurations without changing mechanical parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a modular display system with predefined functions is used, then production of different watch models is enabled, but production complexity and storage requirements increase due to the need to modify and reengineer modules for each variant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal display module that can be configured for multiple display functions through different positioning of the same mechanical components. The module includes a movable bridge with multiple positioning holes that allow the same module to serve different display purposes (central seconds, off-center seconds, date display, etc.) without requiring separate predefined modules for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The display module incorporates a movable bridge that can be positioned at different locations on the dial using multiple positioning holes. This dynamic repositioning capability allows the same physical module to adapt to different display configurations, eliminating the need for multiple static predefined modules and reducing production complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple predefined display modules are created for different functions, then various display types can be produced, but the number of component references and storage needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal display module design serves multiple display functions through configurable positioning. The same module can be used for central seconds, off-center seconds, date display, and other configurations by simply changing the bridge position, thereby reducing the quantity of different component types from many predefined modules to one universal module.
Solution Approach 2:
The display module is segmented into separable components (bridge, dial, hands, date window) that can be independently positioned and reconfigured. This segmentation allows the same set of components to be arranged in multiple configurations, reducing the need for multiple complete module sets while maintaining display function diversity.
3Ease of manufacture
If display devices are fixed in predefined positions, then module design is simplified, but flexibility in positioning and combining display devices is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge is designed with multiple positioning holes that allow it to be dynamically repositioned to different locations on the dial. This maintains manufacturing simplicity by using the same bridge design for all configurations while providing positioning flexibility through the array of holes, enabling the same module to adapt to different display layouts.
Solution Approach 2:
The bridge acts as an intermediary element between the dial and the display components (hands, date window). By providing multiple positioning holes in the bridge, it mediates between the fixed dial structure and the variable display configurations, allowing flexible positioning while maintaining a simple unified design.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an analog display timepiece comprising a clock movement (1) having a mechanical output, located on an axis (2) of said movement, and a display assembly (30) having at least one display device (31, 32, 111, 112) driven by said mechanical output, the display assembly being separated from the clock movement (1) and linked to a fixed part (10) of this movement (1) by support means which allow several different positions of said display device around the output axis (2) of the movement. According to the invention, the support means for the display assembly comprise an intermediate support (34, 70, 72, 70') attached to the fixed part (10) of the clock movement (1) and provided with support members (36, 87, 89, 87', 89') allowing several mounting positions for said at least one display device (31, 32; 111, 112) on the intermediate support (34, 70, 72, 70').The invention relates to the field of watch part displays.