Monobloc Diaphragm Deployment Device for Watchmaking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Diaphragm deployment devices in watchmaking are complex and costly to manufacture due to their intricate reinforcements and assembly requirements, making them challenging to produce efficiently, especially for small devices.
Innovation Solution
A diaphragm deployment device comprising a first rigid frame and a second deformable frame, where the two frames form a monobloc set from the same material, eliminating the need for assembly and joints, thereby simplifying and reducing the manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the deployment device uses multiple separate frame elements joined by articulations, then the device can achieve the required deployment functionality, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the first rigid frame and second deformable frame into a single monobloc piece, eliminating the need for separate articulations and joints. This single-piece construction maintains the deployment functionality while significantly reducing structural complexity and the number of components that need to be assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The monobloc structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the rigid support of the first frame, the deformability of the second frame, and the articulation mechanism all in one integrated component, eliminating the need for separate elements for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the deployment device uses multiple separate frame elements requiring assembly, then the device can achieve the required functionality, but the manufacturing time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By combining both frames into a single monobloc piece, the patent eliminates the assembly step entirely. The device can be manufactured as one continuous piece through processes like molding or machining, significantly reducing manufacturing time and labor costs while maintaining full deployment functionality.
3Ease of operation
If the deployment device uses articulations and joints between frame elements, then the device can achieve movement functionality, but wear and tear occur leading to play and potential seizure
Solution Approach 1:
The monobloc construction eliminates all articulations and joints by integrating the movement mechanism directly into the single piece. The deformable frame portions move relative to each other through the monobloc structure itself, eliminating contact surfaces that would otherwise experience wear, friction, and potential seizure.
4Device complexity
If the deployment device uses separate frame elements requiring joints, then the device can achieve the required structure, but lubrication requirements increase maintenance complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated monobloc structure eliminates all joints and articulations that would require lubrication. The movement between frame portions occurs through the monobloc material itself without contact surfaces, completely eliminating lubrication requirements and associated maintenance complexity.
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 solution allows for faster and cheaper production of diaphragm deployment devices, reduces the risk of wear and lubrication issues, and provides better control and precision in the deployment mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a second deformable frame (3), the first rigid frame (2) and the second deformable frame (3) being connected to each other, so that the second deformable frame (3) passes from a first extended configuration to a second compact configuration, and vice versa
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
The invention relates to a diaphragm-type deployment device (1), particularly for watchmaking, the device comprising a first rigid armature (2) and a second deformable armature (3), the first rigid armature (2) and the second deformable armature (3) being connected to each other, such that the second deformable armature (3) moves from a first extended configuration to a second compact configuration, and conversely, the device (1) defining a first geometry when the second deformable armature (3) is in the first extended configuration, and defining a second geometry smaller than the first geometry when the second deformable armature (3) is in the second compact configuration, the device (1) extending substantially in the same plane when the second armature is in the first or second configuration,characterized in that at least a first part of the first rigid frame (2) and at least a first part of the second deformable frame (3) form a first monobloc assembly, preferably made of the same material. The invention also relates to a timepiece comprising such a display device (1).