Moiré Effect Winding Assembly for Watch Aesthetics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic timepiece movements in wristwatches with transparent backs are aesthetically hindered by the oscillating winding weight, which obscures the movement and lacks appealing aesthetics, as conventional engraving methods fail to create a dynamic and attractive visual effect.
Innovation Solution
A moiré effect winding assembly is introduced, featuring a moving winding mass with a perforated structure and a stationary element with a relief pattern, creating a dynamic optical effect by relative movement, enhancing the aesthetic appeal through a perceived animation of shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a transparent back is used to allow the movement to be observed, then the visibility of the movement is improved, but the aesthetic appearance is worsened by the obscuring oscillating winding weight
Solution Approach 1:
The winding weight incorporates a second openwork pattern that rotates relative to the first relief pattern, creating a dynamic moiré effect that changes appearance during operation. This dynamic visual transformation resolves the contradiction by making the winding weight aesthetically engaging rather than static and obscuring.
Solution Approach 2:
The moiré effect produces optical interference patterns that create visual color and density variations as the patterns interact. This optical phenomenon transforms the winding weight from a plain obscuring element into a visually attractive feature with changing apparent colors and densities.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional engraving is used to decorate the winding weight, then the manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the aesthetic appeal is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical engraving with an optical moiré effect created by superimposing two patterns. This substitution achieves superior aesthetic appeal through optical interference rather than physical carving, while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through pattern fabrication methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The winding weight combines multiple structural elements: a first relief pattern, a second openwork pattern, and a high density insert. This composite structure integrates aesthetic function (moiré effect) with functional requirements (oscillation weight), resolving the contradiction between simple manufacturing and aesthetic appeal.
3Weight of moving object
If the winding weight is made with high density material, then the oscillation functionality is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The high density insert is nested within the ring structure of the winding weight, which itself contains the patterned elements. This nesting arrangement consolidates multiple functions (weight, structure, aesthetics) into a compact integrated component, managing manufacturing complexity while achieving the required oscillation functionality.
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 moiré effect enhances the visual appeal of the winding mass and the timepiece, providing a more attractive and characterful appearance compared to conventional designs, while maintaining functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the movement of the second openwork pattern above the first relief pattern generates an optical effect of the moiré type. The moiré effect allows you to create an impression of movement of a shape thanks to the relative movement of the two patterns.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a moiré effect winding assembly (1, 10) for automatic movement (2) of a timepiece, the assembly (1, 10) comprising an oscillating winding mass (3, 13) movable relative to the movement (2), said winding mass (3, 13) being intended to be mounted for rotation on an axis (25) of the movement (2), a part of the winding mass (3, 13) forming a weighted part allowing the oscillation of the mass in response to the movement of the timepiece and the force of gravity.The assembly includes a stationary element (4, 14) relative to the movement (2), said stationary element (4, 14) being arranged under the winding mass (3, 13), the winding mass (3, 13) being configured to move at least partly over the stationary element (4, 14), said stationary element (4, 14) comprising a first relief pattern and the winding mass (3, 13) having a plurality of through openings defining a second pattern, so as to create a dynamic moiré effect when the winding mass (3, 13) moves over the stationary element (4, 14).